Mama Loves Food!

Slow Cooker Mojo Pork for Chipotle Style Burritos.

2013-04-12T11:11:00.000-07:00

Raise your hand if you're totally addicted to Chipotle burritos. (ME! ME!). I pretty much love them, but rather than spend a mortgage payment every month on visiting the restaurant I decided to start making burritos at home. Since pork is my favorite, that's where I started.

Now, I'm putting it out there right away - this pork is NOT seasoned the way Chipotle's pork is seasoned. I have no idea how Chipotle's pork is seasoned, but I knew I wanted a citrus tang to it without trying to figure out the lime rice thing, so I went with a Mojo seasoning. And it's delish. My kids told me it was "the BEST PORK EVER MOM!" and they're really not much into complimenting food. Unless I make cookies. And then I'm awesome.

Slow Cooker Mojo Pork for Chipotle Style Burritos, Ingredients:

3 - 5 pounds boneless Boston butt roast, strings removed
20 ounces mojo marinade (I use Badia Mojo Marinade because it's delicious, but also preservative free and all that hippy dippy jazz)
2 large sweet yellow onions, rough chopped
2 large green bell peppers, cut into strips

Optional burrito ingredients:

extra large flour tortillas
white rice
black beans (I use canned)
fresh salsa or pico de gallo (I'm partial to this Roasted Tomato and Garlic Salsa)
guacamole (here's my Easy Guacamole recipe)
sour cream
monterey jack cheese, shredded

Slow Cooker Mojo Pork for Chipotle Style Burritos, Directions:

Place onions and peppers at the bottom of your crock pot then place pork on top.
Pour marinade over everything and cook on high 4 - 6 hours or low 8 - 10 hours.
Shred pork and mix with onions and peppers.
For burritos, pile all your favorites onto the large tortilla (starting with the rice!) and roll up. I find it's easiest to do this on a piece of foil just like they do at Chipotle so everything stays together when you're done.
Enjoy!!!

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Marshmallow Puffed Rice Treats for Your Easter Basket.

2013-03-15T04:44:00.003-07:00

Are you looking for a fun and easy Easter basket treat? These Marshmallow Puffed Rice Treats are a simple and fun solution to your empty Easter basket woes.

Marshmallow Easter Treat Ingredients and Supplies:

6 cups puffed rice cereal
4 cups marshmallow
3 tablespoons butter
food coloring
plastic Easter eggs
non-stick spray

Marshmallow Easter Treat Directions:

Melt butter in a large pan on medium heat. Add marshmallows and stir until fully melted. Add food coloring until preferred hue is reached. Stir in rice cereal and mix until fully incorporated.
Remove from heat and allow to cool for about three minutes. While cooling, coat the insides of your plastic eggs with non-stick spray.
While mixture is still warm and malleable, stuff it tightly into the eggs. Chill for about 30 minutes to set.
Enjoy!

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of my family at April's Little Family, then join me on
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-Also be sure to check out my Amazon store for everything I love to use in the kitchen!-

Peppermint Candy Cane Powder

2012-12-14T20:14:00.000-08:00

Candy Cane Dust (or Peppermint Powder as it's called in our house) is the easiest thing you'll ever love to make. One ingredient. One step. About fourteen bajillion ways to use it.

I originally published this little tutorial about two years ago, but it's one of my favorites, so I thought I'd dust it off and give it another quick whirl. (Pun absolutely intended.)

Peppermint Candy Cane Powder Ingredient:

candy canes!

Peppermint Candy Cane Powder Directions:

Put candy canes in food processor (or spice grinder or magic bullet) and pulverize!

Peppermint Candy Cane Powder Ideas!

Add to your hot cocoa for peppermint cocoa
Add to your coffee for peppermint coffee
Add to vanilla icing to make peppermint vanilla icing and use on your cakes and cookies
Add directly to your cake or cookie batter for peppermint cakes and cookies
Dip your freshly iced cookies (or chocolate dipped pretzels!) in it for a flavor boost
Sprinkle on ice cream or yogurt!

Tell me, what will you do with your Peppermint Candy Cane Powder?

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Quickie Coconut Tomato Tom Yum Soup.

2012-11-28T13:09:00.000-08:00

You all know how I love a soup. But I have to be honest, some soups confound me. I can make a mean chowder or stew, but when it comes to Asian soups I'm a little lost. So I was thrilled when Pacific Natural Foods contacted me and asked if I would give their new Soup Starters line a try. They have a Tom Yum Starter, a Pho Starter, and a Tortilla Soup Starter.

The Starters are so tasty you could drink them straight from the carton, but if you want to get a touch fancier, it's crazy easy. Here's my simple twist on the traditional Tom Yum Soup. Only takes a couple minutes and will make your friends think you slaved all day. But who are we kidding, don't share with friends - enjoy it all for yourself!

Quickie Coconut Tomato Tom Yum Soup Ingredients:

1 quart Tom Yum Soup Starter
1 can coconut milk (14 ounces)
1/2 can diced tomatoes, drained (14 ounce can)
16 ounce package frozen stir fry or Japanese blend vegetables
14 ounces prepared soba noodles or stir fry noodles
optional garnishes: lime, Thai basil, red pepper flakes, cilantro

Quickie Coconut Tomato Tom Yum Soup Directions:

Combine soup starter, coconut milk, and tomatoes in a stock pot and simmer about 5 minutes. Blend with an immersion blender until smooth.
Stir in vegetables and bring back to a simmer.
Stir in noodles and cook until noodles are heated through. Serve immediately.
Enjoy!

From Pacific Natural Foods:

"The Soup Starters line, which launched last year with Vietnamese-style Pho soup base, makes it easy and convenient to step outside of the same old dinner routine with a DIY-version of your restaurant favorites at home. More importantly, each family member can customize their meal with their favorite fresh ingredients, making it easy to please everyone at the table (in less than 30 minutes!)."

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BUT WAIT!!!

Leave a comment below telling me what your favorite soup is and you will be entered to win a sample pack of these delicious Soup Starters from Pacific Foods!

>>>You must leave your email address in the comments so I can get in touch with you if you're the winner.<<<

Mailing addresses in the continental US only, please. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Contest is void where prohibited and ends 12am eastern time, December 12, 2012. Mama Loves Food and all affiliates/owners/operators/writers/associates maintain no liability whatsoever for any alleged injury born of or related to this contest and by entering you agree to as much.

-=This is a sponsored post from Pacific Natural Foods. All opinions stated are my own=-

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Apple (un) Oatmeal. {Paleo Oatmeal}

2012-11-07T14:38:00.004-08:00

One of my favorite breakfasts has always (well, maybe not always) been a bowl of oatmeal with a hot cup of coffee. But the paleo diet says 'NAY!' to oatmeal. Which (((sob))). Until a few days ago when I was testing a dessert recipe that went all kinds of wrong. Well, wrong with respect to what I was going for, but so VERY right as a delicious oatmeal replacement!

Apple (un)Oatmeal Ingredients:

1 and 1/2 tablespoons coconut oil (or butter works well, also)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon real vanilla extract
1 medium/small apple, small diced
1 banana, thinly sliced
1/4 - 1/2 cup slivered almonds
pinch of salt
optional garnishes: additional nuts, grated coconut, raisins, dried cranberries, fresh whipped cream

Apple (un)Oatmeal Directions:

Heat coconut oil in a small saucepan or frying pan. Add cinnamon and vanilla, mix well.
Stir in banana and apple and cook over medium/low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until bananas liquefy and apple is softened.
Stir in slivered almonds and add salt (unless you used salted butter, then you can skip this step).
Top with your choice of garnishes and enjoy!

::serves 1::

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The EPIC Ultimate Foodie Kitchen Gift Guide.

2012-10-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

Confession: When I'm in a bad mood I don't like to cook. No, instead I like to be waited on by waiters who ask me what I want and then bring it all hot and ready like. With a cocktail. I also like to shop.

But, since we are in the midst of an uber renovation gone wildly over time and budget (hence: bad mood) there's no extra cashola for those things I crave. Instead I've been eating cold cereal and making amazon wish lists out the wazoo.

Which is how this Ultimate Foodie Kitchen Gift Guide came into being. It's full of awesome stuff. Most of it I have, all of it I want. So, take a peeksie and go buy something for someone you love.

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The Ultimate Foodie Kitchen Gifts for UNDER $10

julienne peeler

Have it. Love it. ADORE IT. Can be seen in use with my Zucchini Noodles. Also great for home made hash browns, or making vegetables look all fancy like in your salads, soups, or summer rolls.

spider strainer

Don't have it yet. Want it terribly. Perfect for scooping hot stuff out of hot stuff. I know, enlightening, right? Okay, okay, like eggs from boiling water or Southwestern Eggrolls from hot oil. It's on my short list of things to buy when a little cash comes my way.

fish turner

Have it! Perfect for picking up things that are a pain to pick up with smaller utensils. Wow, I'm super awesome at this descriptive stuff today. Okay, like chicken from the baking dish or fried eggs from the pan. Also, fish. But you probably already guessed that part.

piggy sink strainer

I don't have it, but gosh isn't it cute? If my new kitchen is ever finished, it's got a home in my sink for sure.

jamaican curry powder

This is my absolute favorite curry powder. Oh, hell. It's probably my absolute favorite spice. I use it all the time and think you should too. Find it in my Curry Noodle Soup, Pumpkin Soup, Curry Grilled Chicken Wings, and Spicy Vegetable Curry!

jumbo silicone muffin cups

Silicone muffin cups are fantastic. Food comes out with ease - no grease necessary. I use them for cupcakes and muffins, but also for baked egg cups. The jumbo ones are perfect for making a bagel sized egg cup!

apple corer and divider

This is probably my overall most used kitchen gadget. We go through about 15 pounds of apples a week (yes, my kids REALLY like apples) - this bad boy is a major time saver. Also super helpful for making Slow Cooker Apple Butter!

pyrex 1 quart measuring cup

I use this measuring cup constantly. It's great for measuring (duh), heating food, mixing, and storing. It's pretty much the bomb diggity of measuring cups.

stainless steel serving spatula

I love a good spatula. 'Nuff said.

edgeware knife sharpener

I am terrible about keeping my knives sharp, but this little guy comes in handy when I'm in a pinch and realize I actually do need sharpened knives for the task at hand. Love how this one sits on the edge of the counter while you use it and that it takes up almost no room in my odds and ends drawer. Good stuff.

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The Ultimate Foodie Kitchen Gifts for $11 - $25

mini ice cream maker

You know I love this. Dark Chocolate Ice Cream at my beck and call? Yes, please. Also great for the kiddos, mine think it's magic!

balsamic glaze

Mmmmmm... fresh tomatoes and balsamic glaze. One of my very favorite snacks. I go through about a bottle of this a month. It's fantastic.

chinese soup spoons

I don't have these yet, but I'm getting them! How fun for asian soups or even for appetizers or mini desserts? Yay! It's like a little bit of Top Chef in my very own kitchen.

home ec 101 book

Full disclosure: I know the gal that wrote this book. She's brilliant and the book is a fantastic resource for everything home and kitchen related. Especially perfect for newlyweds and new home owners. Get thee this book.

regular sized silicone muffin cups

Again with the muffin cups! But alas, I love them so. I have these in cherry and they're just lovely.

mini silicone muffin cups

Promise, last muffin cup recommendation. Aren't they just the cutest, though!

silpat non-stick baking sheet

Gone are the days of buying parchment paper! Hurrah!!!

alphabet cookie cutter set

Not just for cutting cookies! We love cookie cutters for cookies, but also sandwich shapes, cheese shapes, brownie shapes. You know, food stuffs. Love a good cookie cutter.

kevlar gloves

If you use sharp knives or a mandolin, you need these gloves. So much better than lopping off the top of a finger.

OXO meat pounder

More often than not I'm lazy and we eat big fat chicken breasts, but I'd be lying if I didn't tell you how much I love a thinly pounded piece of meat breaded and pan fried. Ohhhhh, chicken parm you call to me.

locking tongs

We got these as a wedding gift about a billion years ago and I still use them constantly. Get both sizes, you'll thank me for it later.

microplaner/zester

I never knew how badly I needed this bad boy until I got it. Perfect for zesting, garnishes, and I personally love it for grating ginger and dark chocolate.

cookie dough scooper

Mmmmm.... cookies. I cannot stand dropping cookies off a spoon, I'm terrible at it. I mean, first world problems I know, but this little guy makes me happy.

whisk set

Not just for the kitchen! (kidding!)

owl kitchen timer

Don't have it, but I can't resist the uber cuteness of a wittle baby owl. So cute.

super hero aprons

I'm a little bit of an apron fanatic. I think I need these for Halloween. And also every other day of the year.

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The Ultimate Foodie Kitchen Gifts for $26 - $100

crock pot

If you've been reading this blog for more than 5 minutes, then you know I'm a crockpotting fool. I have four. Hah! This one's awesome because the lid clamps down.

interchangeable blade spiral slicer

Don't have it. Yet.

paring knives

I dare you to tell me these aren't fantastic. Dare. You.

kindle

Okay, not strictly a cooking/kitchen item, but I read cooking blogs and cookbooks on mine. Everyone should have a Kindle. Everyone.

stick blender

If there is any random item that I think EVERY SINGLE KITCHEN NEEDS, it's this one. Took me forever to bite the bullet and buy it and I've been kicking myself for waiting so long. This thing has revolutionized my kitchen. I use it in pretty much all my soups, as well as for making puddings, fresh whipped cream, whipped eggs, butter, seriously, I use it nearly every day.

romertopf clay cooker

Got this as a wedding gift from a dear friend. Makes the most incredibly moist chicken. Yum. So. Yum. You can see it in my Chicken and Couscous post!

stove shield

Take this from someone who laid their hand on the stove as a small child. If you have little ones underfoot, please get this.

kitchenaid hand mixer

Another wedding present that I have just used the heck out of. Can't make a single complaint, love this mixer.

pizza stone

Admittedly, we don't use the pizza stone often, but when I do remember we have it, I think it's great. Wish my memory was better. Probably need to find a more conspicuous storage place in the new kitchen!

weber charcoal grill

Okay, so turns out this list is mostly stuff we got for our wedding. And lest you think we're newlyweds and I'm just fawning about all the awesome new stuff I recently got, rest assured, we're about to celebrate our tenth anniversary. So, needless to say, this stuff's been through it. I love this grill, and even though we've upgraded to something bigger, we kept the old Weber and still use it for smaller meals and overflow. Everyone should have a Weber.

6 in 1 domed cake platter and serving dish

This isn't the exact item we got for our wedding, but it's similar (don't think the one I have is still out there) - it's so versatile and great for parties.

12” everyday pan from cuisinart

This is very aptly named. I use this pan every day. (Well, nearly). I actually have two of them because they're so fantastic.

le creuset utensil set

P.S. I have a bit of a utensil obsession.

cuisinart knife block

Another wedding gift! Love these knives. They've stood up to ten years of wear and tear and sharpening and are still going strong.

high domed roaster

This is the best thing that's happened to Thanksgiving since the turkey was discovered.

6 piece mandolin slicer

Another luxury item, but it's great for salads and making pickles, and french fries, and when you have to julienne for a crowd. Make sure to get the Kevlar gloves though, please.

canon 50 mm lens

This one's a little out of order, sorry. It goes with the Canon Rebel digital SLR camera that I recommend later down the line (although, can be used with any Canon SLR, I believe). This is the lens I use to take all my food photography shots and most of the shots of my kids. I adore this lens and especially at such a reasonable price.

keurig coffee k-cups sampler pack

Another cart before the horse. This one's for the Keurig coffee lover in your life. I dropped hints for three years before my Keurig magically appeared, and I haven't regretted a single moment of begging and pleading. I love this machine, so get it for the coffee fanatic in your life and then get them a big ol' sampling pack to try out all the great varieties.

classic waffle maker

What, what? It's another wedding present! I always think of Shrek and Donkey when we pull this bad boy out. "And in the morning? I'm makin' WAFFLES!" Indeed.

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The Ultimate Foodie Kitchen Gifts - The ‘Spensive Stuff

kindle fire HD

Okay, I know I already mentioned the kindle above, but this is the fancy pants version. In color, with internet. And Angry Birds. So, if you've got a little extra cash to blow, amp it up baby.

vitamix

When I first started watching Top Chef and the contestants would scream across the kitchen, "WHO HAS THE VITAMIX?!" I always wondered why the hell they needed vitamins for their cooking. But, now I know. Vitamix is the to blenders what KitchenAid is to mixers. It's a total indulgence (but then, so is this whole list), but it's the best.

sous vide supreme

Another Top Chef discovery. It grossed me out at first when they would talk about cooking food in a 'water bath' - I mean, I pictured raw chicken cutlets floating in my tub. Gross. But then I learned more and apparently it cooks the very very best meat ever. Aunt Tracy just got one and is relentlessly teasing me with her tales of food perfection. She won't be laughing long though, because I totally intend on stealing it. Or getting my own.

cuisinart food processor

I just got this last year and can't believe I waited so long. Until then I'd been using the mini version and doing small batches. Which works, but is time consuming. Also, this bad boy can do so much more than the mini. I'm in food processing heaven.

cuisinart stainless steel cookware set

We upgraded our cookware a couple years ago (previously had the non-stick stuff but it started wearing and peeling) - this is the set I got (along with the 12" Everyday Pan). I was worried about moving away from the non-stick and whether it would be difficult to cook with, but I couldn't be happier. We do keep one non-stick frying pan for eggs, but otherwise we're total converts.

kitchenaid mixer

It wouldn't be a proper foodie gift guide without the revered KitchenAid Stand Mixer. Once upon a time I had this beautiful beast, but in a brief moment of financial angst we sold it. I regretted that decision immediately and am counting my pennies to get her back!

deep freezer

We have two, one for raw meat and one for cooked food. It's a huge money saver. I think every household should have one.

le creuset 5.5 quart enameled cast iron

This was my Christmas gift from Wesley last year. It was a total surprise (I thought for sure he would finally spring for a Keurig) and it was one of the best surprises ever. I adore everything about this pot. Mine's the yellow mustardy colored one.

keurig elite

My beloved Keurig!!! I was not joking when I said I dropped (very obvious) hints for three years before my husband finally sucked it up and bought this for me. If you're the only coffee drinker in your house and hate to be bothered making a full pot, then this is SO for you. It's also great if you and your coffee partner prefer different brews. To each his own! Let peace reign! --- I feel it's worth mentioning though, that I had the mini Keurig at first and was very unhappy with it. I switched to the Elite model and never looked back. Good stuff. Mmmmmm.

canon powershot with wifi

I have an older model of this camera and am planning to upgrade. Takes fantastic pictures and videos and fits neatly in your pocket or purse. I thought I would just switch to my iphone for everyday snapshots and videos, but turns out I much prefer the Powershot. Who knew. Every foodie needs a quickie camera for making everyone jealous of what they're chowing on. And this one has wifi!!!

canon rebel t4i

This is one of the biggest purchases I have ever made. It took me over a year to finally buckle down and buy it, but I have been in camera bliss ever since. It has a video feature, but admittedly, I prefer my Canon Powershot for video (less cumbersome) - this camera is still worth every penny for the still shots. All my food pictures and most of my kiddo pictures are taken with the Canon Rebel. You won't be disappointed.

*disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links

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{Looking for more Mama? Come and meet the rest of my family at April's Little Family, then join me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, StumbleUpon, and Flickr!}

-Also be sure to check out my Amazon store for everything I love to use in the kitchen!-

Loaded Cauliflower Casserole.

2012-10-20T06:30:00.003-07:00

For as long as I can remember, we've been adding flavor to our food with ranch dressing. From salads, to raw veggies, to chicken and pot roast, ranch dressing just kicks it up a notch. My brother even puts it on his pizza! When my three year old has carrot sticks he always wants to know, "But, Moooooooom, where's my white dip???" So, when I was asked to post about Hidden Valley Ranch? Um, YES.

Also, I kept in the tradition of making otherwise unpalatable foods delicious by creating this awesome Loaded Cauliflower Casserole. Sorry, cauliflower, the kids and hubster just don't care for you. Except like this. Make it as a side item, or throw some chicken in for a great one dish meal!

Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Ingredients:

1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 packet ranch dressing mix, 2.0 ounces
1/3 cup bacon bits (I buy a big bag of them and then microwave 90 second in a microwave safe glass dish before using so they're extra crispy and taste fresh!)
1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
32 ounces frozen cauliflower, thawed
*optional: 3 cooked chicken breasts, chopped
*optional 1/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese for topping at the end

Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients in the order listed above, making sure to mix well before adding the next item.
Put cauliflower mixture into a casserole dish and bake covered at 350 degrees for 60-70 minutes (check cauliflower for doneness with a fork). Optional: after baking, uncover dish and sprinkle additional cheese over top. Place under broiler for about a minute (watching closely!) to melt.
Enjoy!!!

"The Chef and Child Foundation (CCF) and the makers of Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® dressings and dips are partnering to host the Lunch Break for Kids fundraiser to showcase how simple, good food can make healthier bodies and stronger family connections, as well as support CCF’s national Childhood Nutrition Day in its mission to promote healthier eating to kids and their families through community-based initiatives.

We are asking chefs across the nation to volunteer and organize outreach events and/or raise funds during the month of October for this important cause.

It’s easy to support childhood nutrition; pledge a day, a week or the whole month of October."

-Lunch Break for Kids

The Hidden Valley® Original Ranch®, dressings and dips has provided me with compensation and free product to help with my review, but anything I receive from Hidden Valley does not affect my thoughts on its company or their product.

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{Looking for more Mama? Come and meet the rest of my family at April's Little Family, then join me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, StumbleUpon, and Flickr!}

-Also be sure to check out my Amazon store for everything I love to use in the kitchen!-

Slow Cooker Tuscan Risotto.

2012-10-01T17:43:00.003-07:00

Confession: I've never actually been to Tuscany. (Also, I've never made risotto before.) But that was because it sounded like an insane amount of work. All that stirring. Uhg, no thanks. But then one day I was perusing the cornerstone of slow cooking and discovered you could make it in a crock. Jackpot! So this past week we had a little dinnertime jaunt to Italy. And it was lovely.

I served this with some braised chicken thighs and cannolis for dessert. I would give you the cannoli recipe, except I cheated and bought them. I hope you enjoy my Slow Cooker Tuscan Risotto. Pair it with a glass of deep red, and some close friends. Mmmmmm.

Slow Cooker Tuscan Risotto Ingredients:

1/2 cup quartered marinated artichoke hearts, drained
1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes in oil, drained
4 ounces fresh gourmet blend mushrooms (or whatever your market has available if they don't sell the fru-fru stuff)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sweet yellow onion, fine diced
4 teaspoons basil pesto
2 cups Arborio Italian style rice
4 1/4 cups chicken stock or broth
1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan Reggiano cheese

Slow Cooker Tuscan Risotto Directions:

Rough chop the artichokes, tomatoes and mushrooms. Heat olive oil on the stove top and add all ingredients except rice, stock, and cheese. Saute for 3-4 minutes to marry flavors and soften the onions.
Add all ingredients except cheese to the crock pot and stir until well mixed. Cook on high for 1 1/2 - 2 hours (mine was perfect at 1 3/4 hours).
Stir in cheese and serve!

Serves 4 - 6

This post is brought to you by Rice Select.

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{Looking for more Mama? Come and meet the rest of my family at April's Little Family, then join me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, StumbleUpon, and Flickr!}

-Also be sure to check out my Amazon store for everything I love to use in the kitchen!-

Grasshopper Fudge.

2012-09-21T03:55:00.000-07:00

Grasshopper Fudge, assuredly devoid of actual grasshoppers. This fudge is easy, tasty, and fun. Because who doesn't like cookies and mint? (shhhh... you'll break my heart if you tell me you don't like cookies and mint!). So, go to it! And then? Check out my other awesome fudge recipes!

Grasshopper Fudge Ingredients:

10 oreo cookies
1 container vanilla frosting
12 ounces white chocolate chips
2 teaspoons real mint extract
food coloring (to desired color)

Grasshopper Fudge Directions:

In a food processor, pulse cookies until they are completely crumbled. Press cookies down into a lined loaf pan.
In one bowl, combine the frosting, mint extract, and food coloring. Mix well.
In a second bowl (or on the stovetop) melt the chocolate chips. When chocolate chips are completely melted, combine the contents of the two bowls and mix well.
Pour the contents of your bowl into the loaf pan over the pressed cookies. Spread evenly.
Chill for about one hour, then enjoy!

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{Looking for more Mama? Come and meet the rest
of my family at April's Little Family, then join me on
Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, StumbleUpon, and Flickr!}

-Also be sure to check out my Amazon store for everything I love to use in the kitchen!-

Crispy Pepperoni Chips.

2012-09-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

One of the things I've struggled with in switching to the paleo diet is the lack of crunchy snacking foods. I love a green pepper as much as the next gal, but sometimes you just need a potato chip. So, one day I was munching on some pepperoni and dreaming longingly about a sack of Lay's, when it came to me. Crunchy Pepperoni Chips! They're like a potato chip and pepperoni shacked up and had an illegitimate little bacon baby. So. Freaking. Good. And simple as can be. Get ready folks, cause it's time to make some meaty microwave magic.

Crispy Pepperoni Chip Ingredients:

Thin sliced pepperoni (I get the kind in a bag meant for making your own pizza)

Crispy Pepperoni Chip Directions:

Lay your pepperoni slices in a single layer on a microwave safe dish (I implore you to please not use plastic). It's okay if the edges of your pepperoni touch, in fact I like them to as it makes them easier to transfer!
Microwave on high for 2 1/2 to 3 minutes (3 minutes is perfect in my microwave). Then transfer to a paper towel to drain and cool.
Enjoy!

Looking for more paleo-friendly crunchy snacks? Check out these!

Crispy Roasted Kale Chips

Garlic Dill Refrigerator Pickles

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{Looking for more Mama? Come and meet the rest of my family at April's Little Family, then join me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, StumbleUpon, and Flickr!}

-Also be sure to check out my Amazon store for everything I love to use in the kitchen!-

Last Minute Chicken Chili.

2012-09-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but it doesn't seem to matter how well I plan, there's always at least one night a week that we end up scrambling for dinner. Enter this Last Minute Chicken Chili. It's made with ingredients we always have in the freezer or cupboard and it only takes a few minutes to throw together. Also? It's really tasty.

Last Minute Chicken Chili Ingredients:

6 cooked chicken breasts, chopped or shredded (remember all that delicious baked chicken in the freezer?!)
1 large can diced tomatoes, NOT drained
1 packet McCormick's Mild Chili Seasoning (1.25 ounce package)
optional garnishes: sour cream, shredded cheese, kernel corn

Last Minute Chili Directions:

Add all ingredients to a large pot and stir well. Heat on medium until warmed throughout.
Serve with your choice of garnishes and enjoy!

{serves 6}

And when you have more than a minute or two to prepare dinner, be sure to try out my Wendy's Style Chili Recipe!

Wendy's Style Chili

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Decadent Dark Chocolate Paleo Ice Cream. {GIVEAWAY!}

2012-09-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes, I'm still on the crazy paleo kick. I've lost 15 pounds though without ever being hungry, so hey, why not. Anyway, I keep seeing people write about this amazing two ingredient chocolate ice cream. And every time I look it's the same recipe. Frozen bananas, cocoa powder, and a food processor. Lots of scraping and mixing. Sounds like a major pain, so I never bothered to try it.

But then those nice folks at Hamilton Beach sent me the cutest little soft serve ice cream maker, and suddenly a light bulb went off. I will have my decadent dark chocolate ice cream and there will be NO scraping! And NO stirring! And it will be DELICIOUS! And so it was.

Decadent Dark Chocolate Paleo Ice Cream Ingredients:

2 very ripe bananas, peeled*
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (I'm partial to Hershey's Special Dark)

Decadent Dark Chocolate Paleo Ice Cream Directions:

Put bananas and cocoa powder in a container and blitz with your immersion blender until it's liquid (only takes a couple seconds).
Pour mixture into the frozen ice cream bowl and churn for ten minutes.
Enjoy!

*If you're not into bananas (which really, it does NOT have a strong banana flavor) you can sub out for vanilla yogurt. That's what my kids like - but warning, it will be *tart*!

Wait! Don't go yet!!!

Leave a comment letting me know your favorite ice cream flavor and you'll be entered to win a Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker of your very own!

Contest ends Saturday, September 22, 2012 at midnight eastern time. Contest is void where prohibited. By entering this contest you agree that Mama Loves Food and owners/operators/writers thereto maintain no liability whatsoever for an harm allegedly born of this contest.

-=This is a sponsored post from Hamilton Beach Company. All opinions stated are my own=-

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Creamy Mushroom Soup.

2012-09-07T19:15:00.000-07:00

If you've read this blog for any length of time, you've probably come to the conclusion that I love soup. And you'd be right. I *LOVE* soup. So when I was recently whipping up a batch of this delicious Simple Bacon Mushroom Sauce, it occurred to me that the recipe would also make a fantastic soup! Yessss! Souppppp! (didja hear? I love soup.) So here it is, the simplest of simple (but also super yummy) Cream of Mushroom Soup.

Creamy Mushroom Soup, Ingredients:

1 strip thick cut bacon
1 clove garlic, minced (I used fresh)
2 -3 tablespoons minced red onion
mushrooms, 8 ounces (I used baby portabellas, but you can use whatever you like!)
seasoned salt, to taste (I use Lawry's or Aunt Cora's)
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups chicken stock or broth

Creamy Mushroom Soup, Directions:

Cook bacon in a frying pan on medium heat until almost crispy. Add garlic and red onion to pan and cook in bacon grease for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add mushrooms and cook until softened. Sprinkle with seasoned salt, to taste.
Pour in cream and stir until well mixed and heated through. Add chicken stock until you reach desired consistency. If you like your mushroom soup pureed (I do!) whip out that immersion blender and put it to good use. If not, go ahead and enjoy!
OPTIONAL: Pour over your favorite pasta (or zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash) for a super fantastic Creamy Mushroom Noodle Soup!

But wait! Don't forget to check out some of my other delicious soup recipes!

White Broccoli and Cauliflower Cheese Soup

Chicken and Sausage Stew

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup

Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Stew

Slow Cooker Baked Potato Soup

Slow Cooker Corn and Potato Chowder

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Frozen Sweet Treat Social {GIVEAWAY}

2012-09-06T17:53:00.001-07:00

Summer is winding down across most of the country, but we still have plenty of hot days ahead here in sunny Florida. I have such fond memories of hours upon hours of splashing in the warm pool only to take quick popsicle breaks and then jump right back in! My favorite flavors were always citrus inspired, but never berry. Ick. Especially not blue. Double ick.

As I've grown up my tastes have veered more toward decadent ice cream based treats, and so far my kids agree. Our summer treat of choice this year has definitely been ice cream bars. Recently we discovered the new MAGNUM® Mini Classic bars. They're the perfect size for little hands and also for not completely obliterating your diet.

Did you know, Breyers, Klondike, Popsicle, MAGNUM, and Good Humor have introduced new treats for 2012!

And to celebrate this, the One2One Network is hosting a 'Frozen Treats Social' Sweepstakes on their Facebook page!

One2One will be doing daily drawings for full value coupons and awarding a Grand Prize for a year's worth of frozen treats!!!

But WAIT! Before you head over to the O2O contest, make sure to leave a comment on this here blog post letting me know what your favorite frozen treat is, and you will be entered to win a set of five (5) full value coupons from the 5 participating brands (ARV $25)!!!

Contest ends Saturday, September 15, 2012 at midnight eastern time. Contest is void where prohibited. By entering this contest you agree that Mama Loves Food and owners/operators/writers thereto maintain no liability whatsoever for an harm allegedly born of this contest.

-=This is a sponsored post from One2One Network. Product and additional incentives were provided to me. All opinions stated are my own=-

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Two Minute Pumpkin Pudding.

2012-08-30T14:46:00.000-07:00

YOU GUYS!!! TWO DAYS UNTIL PUMPKIN SEASON!!! YAY!!!! That means ALL THINGS PUMPKIN!!! WOOT WOOT FOR AUTUMN!

And let's not kid ourselves, the very best part of the pumpkin pie is the filling. Mmmmm. So, why not indulge in this unbelievably simple Two Minute Pumpkin Pudding that has all the flavor with none of the work?

p.s. this is in no way paleo friendly. it is, however, DELISH.

Two Minute Pumpkin Pudding Ingredients:

one can pure pumpkin, 15 ounce
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 teaspoon real vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger

Two Minute Pumpkin Pudding Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and blend with an electric mixer for about two minutes.
Serve and enjoy!

Do you love pumpkin as much as I do??? Well then be sure to check out these other ridiculously awesome pumpkin dishes!

Gingersnap Pumpkin Pie Bites

Savory Pumpkin Soup

Chewy Pumpkin Spice Brownies

Pumpkin Spice Cake

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Roasted Bone Marrow.

2012-08-23T19:59:00.001-07:00

Roasted bone marrow is one of those things you would probably never think to eat, but then when you do finally eat it you're all HOLY CROW WHY HAVE I NEVER HAD THIS BEFORE??? It's like the roasted garlic of the meat world. For serious. I mean, Anthony Bourdain has declared it part of his death row meal. And we all know Anthony Bourdain doesn't screw around.

And rest assured, despite tasting and looking downright sinful, it's actually pretty darn good for you.

Roasted Bone Marrow, Ingredients:

Beef Bones, cut (I find them at the local grocer right next to the steaks)
Your favorite seasoning (I have been using Aunt Cora's Soulful Seasoning or McCormick Sweet and Smoky Rub) - or you could even just use some coarse salt!

Roasted Bone Marrow, Directions:

Place bones on a foil lined baking sheet and sprinkle with your preferred seasoning. Roast at 450 degrees for approximately 12 - 15 minutes (until marrow is soft, but not melted).
Enjoy as is, spread over a toasted baguette, or on top of a seared steak!

p.s. This probably isn't a good first date meal. You will want to lick and slurp at the bones.

p.p.s. Don't you dare toss those bones in the trash! Throw them in your freezer until you've collected enough for a bone stock! Or at the very least, toss 'em to your pup.

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Smoked Salmon Rolls.

2012-08-15T12:59:00.000-07:00

Smoked salmon rolls are another treat from my south Florida upbringing. Again with the deli thing! I know! At the deli I would get this over a toasted white bagel. Mmmmmm. But my Paleobruhahaha doesn't allow bagels. Boohoo. Actually, this is completely delicious with or without the bagel and since without the bagel means without the guilt, I'll take it!

Smoked Salmon Roll Ingredients:

smoked wild salmon (or nova lox, or lox)
cream cheese
red onion, thinly sliced
capers
lemon

Smoked Salmon Roll Directions:

Lay out your pieces of salmon (if they're ginormo you may want to cut them down to a more reasonable size)
Put a smear of cream cheese on each piece of salmon and top with onions and capers.
Roll up and squeeze lemon juice over rolls.
Enjoy!

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Slow Cooker Spaghetti Marinara Sauce Recipe.

2012-07-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

This Slow Cooker Spaghetti Marinara Sauce Recipe comes to my rescue when we (inevitably) run out of jarred marinara sauce on spaghetti night. Thankfully it's made from ingredients I always have floating around the pantry, it's super easy, and 'oh hey!' it tastes good too! Go ahead and make it a meal with whole grain pasta, Turkey Meatballs, and Two Minute Garlic Knots!

Crock Pot Marinara Sauce Recipe Ingredients:

2 cans crushed tomatoes, 28 ounces each
1 can tomato paste, 12 ounces
1 medium/large sweet yellow onion, chopped
3 tablespoons garlic, minced (I use jarred)
1 cup white wine
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 tablespoon seasoned salt
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 to 1 cup Parmesan cheese (to taste)

Crock Pot Marinara Sauce Recipe Directions

Combine all ingredients EXCEPT brown sugar and Parmesan cheese in the crock pot. Give a quick stir and cook on high for 4 -6 hours or low for 8-10 hours.
Puree sauce to desired consistency using an immersion blender (or by carefully transferring to an upright blender).
Stir in brown sugar and Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy!

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Garlic Dill Refrigerator Pickles.

2012-07-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

Fresh Garlic Dill Pickles remind me of growing up in south Florida. I was raised in the land of the Jewish deli (oh, how I love a good Jewish deli) where they would always put a dish of of crunchy pickles on the table for munching before your entree arrived. Oh, I love those pickles. So today I decided to make some. I have no idea if the authentic deli pickles are made this way, I just made a quick batch of refrigerator pickles the easiest way I know how. Also the most delicious. Most. Deeeelicious.

Garlic Dill Refrigerator Pickles, Ingredients:

Cucumbers, sliced (Use whatever kind you prefer, I like to do a variety but if you get the kind with a coat of wax, be sure to peel it!) - I use enough to nearly fill a quart jar
Fresh garlic, thinly sliced - I use 2-3 large cloves per quart jar
Sweet yellow onion, thinly sliced - I use 1 small onion per quart jar
Dill seed (yes, seed NOT weed) - I use about a tablespoon per quart jar
Salt - I use 1 -2 tablespoon per quart jar
White vinegar
Filtered water

Garlic dill refrigerator Pickles, Directions:

Add cucumber, onion, and garlic to a large bowl. Sprinkle with dill seed and salt, then mix well (alternately you could layer directly into your mason jar).
Pack mixture into mason jars. Pour vinegar into jar until it is about 1/4 - 1/3rd full. Fill remainder of the jar with water, screw on cap (tightly!) and give it a good shake. Taste your brine (no, SERIOUSLY) - this is your opportunity to make adjustments!
Refrigerate overnight, then enjoy! (These will keep for about 10 or so days in the refrigerator, but I seriously doubt they will last that long.)

But, WAIT! If you love pickles, be sure to check out my Easy Fried Pickles!

And if you're feeling REALLY ambitious maybe you could make some Easy Fried Pickles with the Garlic Dill Refrigerator Pickles!!!

Seriously, folks. Mind. Blown.

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Simple {bacon} Mushroom Sauce.

2012-07-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

This really is a Simple Bacon Mushroom Sauce. Mushrooms, bacon, garlic, and cream. Seriously, I don't think I need to say anything more about this sauce.

Simple (bacon) Mushroom Sauce, Ingredients:

1 strip thick cut bacon
1 clove garlic, minced (I used fresh)
2 -3 tablespoons minced red onion
mushrooms, 8 ounces (I used baby portabellas, but you can use whatever you like!)
seasoned salt, to taste (I use Lawry's or Aunt Cora's)
1/4 cup heavy cream
optional: chicken stock or broth

Simple (bacon) Mushroom Sauce, Directions:

Cook bacon in a frying pan on medium heat until almost crispy. Add garlic and red onion to pan and cook in bacon grease for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add mushrooms and cook until softened. Sprinkle with seasoned salt, to taste.
Pour in cream and stir until well mixed and heated through. If you want the sauce a bit thinner, add chicken stock until you reach desired consistency.
Pour over your favorite pasta (or zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash) and enjoy!

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How to Cook a Make-Ahead Spaghetti Squash in Ten Minutes with NO Oil.

2012-07-24T15:38:00.000-07:00

I've had a spaghetti squash sitting on my kitchen counter for two months. My husband kept asking me if I was sure it was still okay (it was!), but I just couldn't find the time to properly roast it. And I know you can microwave spaghetti squash, but we're squatting at my parents house and they don't have a microwave safe dish big enough to nuke the two halves, so I just continued to put it off.

Until! This past week I took an impromptu trip to Alaska (yes, for real), where I spent a lot of time with my Aunt Sally. Who, just like me, adores cooking. And who cooks so many of the same things. So, I told her my spaghetti squash dilemma. And wouldn't you know, she solved it. So, read on and be amazed.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash in Ten Minutes, Ingredients:

1 whole spaghetti squash

How to Cook a Spaghetti Squash in Ten Minutes, Directions:

Rinse your squash and stab it a whole bunch of times with a paring knife or fork (much like you would if cooking a sweet potato). Go ahead, pretend it's someone you can't stand.
Place on a microwave safe plate or dish and nuke at full power for 10 minutes (add an extra two minutes if it's super gigundo).
Set aside (or leave in the micro) for at least a couple hours (I zapped mine in the morning around breakfast and eventually ate it for lunch)
When you're ready to eat, cut in half and scoop out the seeds. Then shred into 'noodles' with a fork and serve with your favorite sauce or even just a dollop of warm butter! (I ate mine with a delicious Simple Mushroom Sauce).

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Blueberry Coconut Soft Serve {Paleo Ice Cream}

2012-07-23T19:52:00.004-07:00

Blueberry Coconut Soft Serve is my saving grace when the kids insist on swimming in the pool all. day. long. Which means I have to sit on the patio and watch them all. day. long. But I do it, because I remember how special those long summer pool days are. Super duper special. So, I sit in the sticky humidity, play on the iPad, and share my Blueberry Coconut Soft Serve with the baby. What? You didn't think I quit dessert just because I'm all caveman crazy now, did you? Oh, no.

Blueberry Coconut Soft Serve Ingredients:

1 can coconut milk, chilled overnight
3 cups blueberries, frozen

Blueberry Coconut Soft Serve Directions:

Combine blueberries and coconut milk in a bowl and blitz with an immersion blender until you reach desired consistency (alternately you could put it in an upright blender).
Serve immediately!

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Fall Off the Bone Pork Barbecue Ribs - Low and Slow

2012-07-16T10:55:00.002-07:00

These Fall Off the Bone Barbecue Pork Ribs were amazing. Low and slow, baby! Divine. Sweet, juicy and falling off the bone. Did I mention they fall off the bone? When I was asked to post a rib recipe I thought, great! I have the best rib recipe ever! But then I was told, no! Post a NEW recipe! Ahhhhh! But I'm always up for a challenge. Especially a pork challenge. So here it is. Quite possible better than my beloved Apple Cider Ribs. Or at least just as good.

Fall Off the Bone Barbecue Pork Rib Ingredients:

Pork ribs
Your favorite rub (I used McCormick Sweet and Smoky. It was AMAZING.)
Your favorite barbecue sauce (I used Kraft Honey Barbecue. Also SO. GOOD.)

Fall Off the Bone Barbecue Pork Rib Directions:

Smother your pork ribs on both sides with the rub. Place meat side down on a foil lined baking sheet (the bottom part of your broiler pan works perfectly to keep juices from spilling over).
Seal pan(s) tightly with foil and bake at 225 degrees for 3 1/2 hours.
Remove foil and allow meat to rest. If you're making ahead of time, now you can (when they're cool enough!) throw them in the fridge.
Just before you're ready to grill, slather the ribs with barbecue sauce. Then throw on a medium heat grill. Give 'em some char and eat up!

Be sure to visit the DIBS ON MY RIBS Pork Recipe Cookoff Page and enter to win some AMAZING prizes!!!
Two Grand Prize winners (one in each recipe category) will receive a one year supply of groceries awarded as twelve $500 Wal-Mart gift cards. Grand Prize Winners will also have the opportunity to attend the Memphis in May BBQ Event in Memphis, TN in May 2012. (See contest site for full prize details.)
The contest runs until August 12, 2012, at 11:59 p.m. ET and is co-sponsored by Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., McCormick & Company, Inc., Kraft Foods, Inc., and the National Pork Board.

This is a sponsored post. Incentives were provided to me. All opinions stated are my own.

BUT WAIT!!!

If you looooove ribs, do be sure to check out my Apple Cider Pork Barbecue Ribs too. You won't be disappointed!

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Spinach Veggie Dip.

2012-07-11T19:23:00.001-07:00

Okay, so this tasty Spinach Veggie Dip recipe predates my foray into the wide world of Paleo, but to be perfectly honest, I will totally still eat it. I'd just skip the crackers and use some cucumber or sweet pepper slices. Or maybe jicama? I keep hearing about the awesomeness of jicama as a substitute for corn chips or taco shells. Have you tried it? I'm so curious!

Spinach Veggie Dip Ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise (I used Hellmann's®)
1 package vegetable recipe mix (I used Knorr®)
1 package (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (make sure it's well chopped, mine wasn't and required a little extra hacking)
1 container (8 oz.) sour cream
1 container (8 oz.) cream cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped water chestnuts

Spinach Veggie Dip Directions:

Combine ingredients well and chill in the refrigerator.
Serve cold with crackers, pita chips, cucumber slices, carrot chips, sweet pepper slices, or jicama slices! (And if you use jicama, email me to let me know how it goes!)

For this recipe (and actually all my mayo recipes as of late) I used Hellmann's with Olive Oil. Have you tried it? Quite delicious. I won't lie, I'm always excited to help promote products I already use and love.

From Hellmann's:

"From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Hellmann’s® and Best Foods® mayonnaise is an essential ingredient at summer BBQs and family picnics everywhere. Whether it’s a day at the beach or the perfect family picnic, Hellmann’s® mayonnaise dressing with Olive Oil is a great-tasting addition to favorite summer staples like potato salad and vegetable dips. Hellmann’s® has fine-tuned its olive oil mayonnaise recipe to include 50 percent more olive oil, while still delivering the taste of Hellmann’s® consumers know and love."

Be sure to visit Hellmann's on Twitter and Facebook. You can also stop by the Hellmann's website to learn more and receive a $1 off coupon!

As part of the O2O Network, I received free Hellmann's mayonnaise and a stipend. All opinions are my own. Recipe is a modified version of the Hellmann's Easy Spinach Dip Recipe.

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How to Bake a Sweet Potato.

2012-07-08T10:59:00.005-07:00

Baked Sweet Potato, whaaa? I thought you were all PALEOMADNESS, April?! I am! I am! (mostly) (very mostly). Anyway, sweet potatoes are okay. In moderation, of course. And I can't tell you how happy this makes me because I love (love love love) a tasty baked sweet potato with a dab of butter, and sprinkle of cinnamon. Oh, delish.

How to Bake a Sweet Potato, Ingredients:

Sweet potatoes
Oil (This time I used coconut oil, but olive oil is also delicious)
optional: seasoned salt, cinnamon, butter

How to Bake a Sweet Potato, Directions:

Scrub potatoes with cold water. Dry and set on a foil lined baking sheet. Poke lots of holes in your taters with a fork or paring knife. Be careful, these bad boys are dense.
Rub potatoes lightly with oil (and optionally sprinkle with a little bit of seasoned salt).
Bake at 400 degrees for 40 -60 minutes (depending on the size of your potatoes).
Serve with a pat of butter and sprinkle of cinnamon.
Enjoy!

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