Friday, August 26, 2011

Not Your Everyday Salad

Grilled Steak Bruschetta Salad

nutrition facts * Calories488 * Total Fat (g)17 * Saturated Fat (g)7, * Monounsaturated Fat (g)6, * Polyunsaturated Fat (g)1, * Cholesterol (mg)111, * Sodium (mg)964, * Carbohydrate (g)39, * Total Sugar (g)12, * Fiber (g)2, * Protein (g)43, * Vitamin C (DV%)63, * Calcium (DV%)12, * Iron (DV%)35, * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

ingredients

    1/4 cup apricot preserves
    1/4 cup prepared horseradish
    1/4 cup creamy Dijon-style mustard blend
    2 Tbsp. lemon juice
    4 6-oz. beef tenderloin steaks, cut 1-inch thick
    12 1/4-inch-thick slices baguette-style French bread
    4 cups arugula
    1/4 cup bottled roasted red sweet peppers, chopped
    1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

directions

    Snip any large pieces in preserves. In bowl combine preserves, horseradish, mustard blend, and lemon juice. Set aside.
    Sprinkle beef on both sides with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. For charcoal grill, grill steaks on the rack of uncovered grill directly over medium coals, turning once. Allow 10 to 12 minutes for medium-rare doneness (145 degrees F), 12 to 15 minutes for medium (160 degrees F). Grill bread slices with steaks during last 2 minutes, or until bread is toasted; turn once. (For gas grill, preheat grill. Reduce to medium. Place steaks on rack over heat. Cover and grill as above.)
    Divide arugula among 4 serving plates. Top with bread slices. Drizzle with dressing. Slice steak; arrange on bread. Top with red peppers and blue cheese. Makes 4 servings.

recipe source
BHG.com


Paula Deen's
Skillet Fried Potato Salad


6 strips bacon
3 lbs. new red potatoes, scrubbed, rinsed and cut into quarters
Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper
1/2 cup Paula Deen Collection Honey mustard Glaze
1/2 cup Mayonnaise
2 tablespoon dill pickle relish
3 large eggs, hard boiled and chopped
Chives
Directions

In a large skillet or saute pan cook bacon until crisp. Remove from pan and allow to cool before rough chopping. Cook the potatoes in the rendered bacon fat until tender and golden. Salt and pepper to taste. Remove, and allow to drain on paper towels. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine Paula Deen Honey Mustard Sauce with mayo and pickle relish. Place warm potatoes into the bowl and toss with the mustard mayo sauce until potatoes are well coated. Add
Crumbled bacon and chopped egg. Gently toss to combine. Pour into a beautiful bowl and garnish with chopped chives.

Tabouleh Salad

Ingredients:

    2 bunches of fresh parsley (1 1/2 cup chopped, with stems discarded)
    2 tablespoons of fresh mint, chopped
    I medium onion, finely chopped
    6 medium tomatoes, diced
    1 tablespoon salt
    1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    1/2 cup bulghur, medium grade
    6 tablespoons lemon juice
    6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
    Romaine lettuce or grape leaves to line serving bowl (optional)

Preparation:
Soak bulghur in cold water for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until soft.
Squeeze out excess water from bulghur using hands or paper towel.
Combine all ingredients, except for salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Line serving bowl with grape leaves or romaine lettuce, and add salad.
Sprinkle olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper on top.
Serve immediately or chill in refrigerator for 2 hours before serving.


Tabouleh Salad II

Ingredients

    1/2 cup medium grain bulgur
    1 1/4 cups water
    4 cups loosely packed, roughly chopped flat-leaf parsley, about 3 bunches
    1 1/2 cups peeled and diced tomatoes, about 3 to 5 Roma tomatoes,
    1/4 cup green onions chopped, white and some of the green, about 2 green onions
    1/4 to 1/2 cup loosely packed, roughly chopped mint leaves

For the dressing:

    1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
    1/4 teaspoon minced garlic
    Pinch kosher salt
    1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

Bring water to a boil, pour in bulgur, stir, cover, and turn off heat. Let stand 20 to 25 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed and bulgur is fluffy and tender. Pour off any remaining liquid.

To prepare dressing, in a small non-reactive bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt and oil. Taste and adjust seasonings.

In a large salad bowl, toss together parsley, tomatoes, green onions and mint. Add bulgur. Pour dressing over salad, toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings.

Morph 1: Add more diced tomatoes, diced cucumbers, and diced raw zucchini to the tabbouleh. Morph 2: Add rinsed and drained canned chickpeas, and rinsed and drained canned lentils
Morph 3: Grill some boneless, skinless chicken breast, dice, toss with the tabbouleh and wrap it up in fresh pita.Morph 4: Serve as a small side salad with fish.


TABOULEH SALAD III

Printed from COOKS.COM

1 heaping c. fine Bulgar wheat
1 c. lukewarm water
1/2 c. fresh lemon juice (from fresh lemon)
2/3 c. olive oil
1 c. coarsely chopped fresh mint leaves (dried 1/2 c. coarsely chopped parsley)
1/2 c. finely diced onion or scallions
Dash garlic powder to taste
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
4 ripe plum tomatoes, seeded and cut into 1/2 inch dice
Whole fresh mint leaves for garnish

1. Place Bulgar wheat in a large bowl and let stand for 30 minutes. Squeeze out by hand excess water. Then fluff with a fork.
2. Add all of the other ingredients leaving the diced tomatoes last. Toss the salad and let stand for 1/2 hour to enhance flavor.

Serves 6-8.
Optional: Arrange Tabouleh with slices of cucumber on a plate and garnish with fresh mint leaves.


Paula’s Couscous Salad
by Paula Deen

1 1/2 cups water
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup uncooked couscous
1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered lengthwise
5 tablespoons pitted and sliced kalamata olives
5 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing, recipe follows
Dash Ceylon cinnamon, optional

Dressing:
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Directions

In a medium saucepan, bring the water and the 1 teaspoon oil to a boil. Stir in the couscous. Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 2 minutes. Uncover and fluff with a fork. Add remaining ingredients and toss with dressing. Taste and add a pinch of cinnamon, if desired. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Dressing:
Whisk all ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.


Three-Bean Salad

Gourmet | March 2007

A salad from your pantry and fridge: Canned and frozen beans are the secret behind this attractive mix that includes crunchy celery and earthy cumin.
Yield: Makes 6 (side dish) servings
Active Time: 25 min
Total Time: 35 min

ingredients
1 1/2 cups frozen shelled edamame (8 ounces)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup chopped red onion
2 cups thinly sliced celery
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
preparation

Cook edamame in a 1 1/2 - to 2-quart saucepan of boiling salted water, uncovered, 4 minutes. Drain in a colander, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Heat oil in a small heavy skillet over moderately low heat until hot but not smoking, then cook cumin, stirring, until fragrant and a shade darker, about 30 seconds. Pour into a large heatproof bowl.

Add edamame and remaining ingredients to cumin oil and toss to coat. Let stand 10 minutes for flavors to blend.


Southern Cornbread Salad
by Paula Deen

1 batch cornbread, cut into 1-inch cubes, recipe follows
1 (14.5-ounce) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can niblet corn, drained
1 medium Vidalia onion, finely chopped
1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
3 large tomatoes, chopped
2 cups grated sharp Cheddar
1 (8-ounce) bottle ranch dressing
Chopped fresh parsley leaves, for garnish

Cornbread:
1/2 cup vegetable oil, plus 1/4 cup for greasing pan
1 cup self-rising cornmeal
3/4 cup self-rising flour
1 cup cream-style corn
2 eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 cup grated sharp Cheddar, optional
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
Directions

In the bottom of a large glass bowl, place cornbread cubes. Layer beans, corn, onion, bell pepper, tomatoes, and cheese on top of cornbread. Spread ranch dressing evenly over cheese. Cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Cornbread:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Generously season a cast iron skillet with up to 1/4 cup vegetable oil. Preheat the pan either in the oven or on the stove over medium-high heat.

Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl, stirring with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until combined. Pour batter into the preheated cast iron skillet. Place skillet in the oven and bake until golden brown, approximately 30 minutes. If making individual size cornbreads in smaller pans, they will require a shorter cooking time.

Yield: 8 servings



Roasted Golden Beets with Quinoa and Feta

Makes 4 adult servings or about 6 kid servings

5 small golden beets, scrubbed
3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 cup quinoa
1 ounce fresh spinach, stems removed, shredded
3 tablespoons raisins
3 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Arrange the beets on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast the beets until tender when pierced with a fork, 25 to 30 minutes. Let the beets stand until cool enough to handle, then use wet hands to slip the skins from the beets. Cut the beets into quarters.

Meanwhile, in a 1 1/2-quart saucepan, bring 2 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the quinoa and cook, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Fold the spinach into the quinoa and set aside.

In a large bowl, fold the quinoa mixture, beets, raisins, and feta together and drizzle with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil and the lemon juice.

Divide the entire recipe into both adult and child-friendly portions. For adults, serve as is. For children, transfer to a food processor and puree or fork-mash, as appropriate.

Friday, August 12, 2011

Soup for you!!!

Smoky bacon pot noodle for one

Ingredients
    1 rasher smoked back bacon , trimmed and chopped
    2 spring onions , white and green separated and finely sliced
    50g frozen peas
    quarter tsp paprika
    2 tsp cornflour
    200ml vegetable stock
    150g block straight-to-wok wheat noodles , or equivalent of dried, cooked
    splash Worcestershire sauce

Method

    In a small non-stick pan, fry the bacon for a few mins, add the white parts of the spring onions, peas and paprika, then cook for 1 min more. Mix the cornflour with a little of the stock to get a paste, then stir this into the pan with the rest of the stock, noodles and a good splash of Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for a couple of mins until thick and saucy, then scatter with the green parts of spring onion.

PER SERVING
356 kcalories, protein 15g, carbohydrate 68g, fat 5 g, saturated fat 1g, fibre 0g, sugar 4g, salt 1.29 g


Thai Pot Noodle

vegetable stock (750ml)
chunk of fresh ginger
½ red chilli
3 cloves of garlic
1 stick of lemon grass
2 Kaffir lime leaves
handful of button mushrooms
two bunches of rice noodles
raw king prawns (150g)
2 tbsp fish sauce
1 lime
1 pak choi
bunch of fresh coriander
couple of spring onions


make up the vegetable stock using boiling water and a stock cube if you don’t have fresh.
peel and finely chop or grate the garlic, ginger and chilli.
fry them all in a shot of vegetable oil in the bottom of a large pan for 1 minute or so to release their flavours and aromas.
pour in the warmed vegetable stock and bring to a gentle simmer.
bruise the lemon grass with the back of a knife and add to the soup with the lime leaves.
slice the mushrooms thinly and add these to the simmering stock.
dump the noodles, fish sauce and juice of the lime, stir well and simmer for about 3 minutes.
add the prawns and stir through with the pak choi, coriander and spring onions, simmering for just a minute or so more.
splash in a glug of coconut milk as you serve if you prefer (optional).

serves 2


Pot Noodles Recipe

Ingredients
1 lb of thin noodles
1 can of tuna
4 tbsp. of olive oil
1 onion cut in julienne
2 minced garlic cloves
2 tbsp. of chili pepper
1 yellow sweet pepper; cut in strips
4 tomatoes in segments
1 tbsp of oregano
1 pepper in strips
1/2 cup of minced basil
Salt, pepper and cumin
3 cup of boiling broth
3 tbsp of minced parsley

Preparation

Place oil in a hot pot and fry the onion, garlic, red chili or pepper and yellow pepper. Wait for five minutes and add the tomato, oregano and basil.

Season it with salt, pepper and cumin. Cut the noodles in three and place them in the pot, stir them to cover them with the seasoning and let them simmer until the liquid boils dry.

Once the noodles are al dente, add the tuna and parsley. You can also replace the tuna with chicken or fried beef. It is a very simple and quick dish to enjoy with the family.


Proper spicy pot noodle

Ingredients

    2 tsp Thai curry paste
    3 chopped spring onions
    1 large grated carrot
    a mugful of vegetable stock or chicken stock
    a handful of frozen peas
    150g straight-to-wok noodles
Method

    Add the Thai curry paste to a pan and fry over a medium heat for 2 mins. Stir in the spring onions and grated carrot, then cook for 1 min. Pour in a big mugful of hot vegetable or chicken stock and a handful frozen peas. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 2 mins until the carrot is just cooked. Stir in the sachet of straight-to-wok noodles and heat through. Ladle into a mug or a bowl and scatter with sesame seeds, if you like. Serve straight away.

Per serving

366 kcalories, protein 13g, carbohydrate 61g, fat 9 g, saturated fat 1g, fibre 9g, sugar 14g, salt 2.85 g

Lunch it up

The Best Grilled Cheese Sandwich Ever (for Grown Ups Only!)

Bon Appétit
Smear the bread with mayo on both sides and then grill in butter for the ultimate golden-brown crunch.
Makes 4
Recipe by Kevin West
Ingredients
8 slices sourdough or white bread
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella
1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère
1/2 cup grated aged goat cheese (such as Midnight Moon from Cypress Grove Chevre)
3/4 cup Bread-and-Butter Pickles
3 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter

Preparation
Smear both sides of bread slices with mayonnaise. Combine cheeses in a bowl. Sprinkle 4 slices bread with half of cheese mixture, dividing equally. Top each with 3-4 pickles. Divide prosciutto among sandwiches; top with remaining cheese. Cover with remaining bread.
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in each of 2 large heavy skillets over medium-low heat. Add 2 sandwiches to each skillet and cook until bread is golden, 9-10 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon butter to each skillet, flip sandwiches, and cook until bread is golden and cheese is melted, 9-10 minutes longer.
nutritional information
One sandwich contains:
Calories (kcal) 916.0
Calories from Fat 447.8
Fat (g) 49.8
Saturated Fat (g) 24.5
Cholesterol (mg) 136.0
Carbohydrates (g) 70.3
Dietary Fiber (g) 2.3
Total Sugars (g) 3.7
Net Carbs (g) 68.0
Protein (g) 41.7
Sodium (mg) 1851.1

Baked Chile & Potato Taquitos
Serves Two

Ingredients:

• 2 large potatoes
• ½ medium onion
• 1 jalapeno
• 1 Anaheim pepper
• 1 red chili
• 1-cup cheddar cheese
• 1 packet Taco Seasoning
• Olive oil
• 10-12 corn taco shells

Directions:

1. Use grater and shred the two large potatoes. Add to large skillet with olive oil. Turn
to high heat.

2. Dice onion, jalapeno, Anaheim pepper and red chili. Add to potato mixture in skillet.

3. Sauté until potatoes are golden brown.

4. Grease 13×9 pan with olive oil.

5. Take a warmed tortilla and spread a thin-ish layer of potato mixture in center and
roll into taquito formation. Continue process and arrange on tray.

6. Heat oven to 350 and bake for 25 – 35 minutes – to be safe, monitor for desired
crispiness. Personally, the crispier the better.

7. Serve with DIPS!


Angelino Style Grilled Portabella Burgers

Ingredients:

• Large Loafed Sourdough Bread – 4 slices (cut in half)
• Portabella Mushroom Caps – 4
• Pablano Peppers – 2 or 3
• Red Onion – 1 large
• Canned Green Chiles – 2 large cans (diced)
• Soy Sauce – 3 tablespoons
• Salt
• Pepper
• Crushed Red Pepper
• Cumin
• Veganaise/Mayonaise
• Hot Sauce
• Cheddar Cheese
• Lettuce
• Avocado
• Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
• Grill

Directions:

1. Remove stems from portabella mushrooms and marinate in salt, pepper, crushed red pepper, cumin, soy sauce, 2 cans of diced green chiles. Marinate for as long as possible but anything over 30 minutes tastes great.

2. Dice up red onion and place in aluminum foil pouch w/olive oil for grill. Set aside.

3. When up to temperature, place whole pablano peppers, onion pouch and mushroom caps on the grill. Do not place either directly over the flame – off to the side is much more effective. Continually monitor the chiles and onion pouch to not burn.

4. After about 10 minutes, flip mushroom caps and pour remaining marinade inside the cap. Continue to grill for 10 minutes. At the last minute, flip portabellas back over and place cheddar cheese on top of the cap. When melted, remove from heat, cover with foil and set aside.

5. Remove pablanos from heat and place on cutting board. Slice up the pablanos, removing the cap and seeds and set aside. Feel free to remove skin as well.

6. Cut 4 sourdough bread slices in half. Place bread on grill for a light toast. Set aside.

7. Mix veganaise/mayonnaise w/one tablespoon hot sauce. Set aside.

Assembly:

• Bottom = Sourdough
• Caramelized onions
• Portabella mushroom
• Pablano peppers
• Lettuce
• Avocado
• Spread mayo on other sourdough piece and place on top.


Glorious Lechuga Wraps

Ingredients:

- 1/3 cup vegetable broth/stock
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 4 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 table spoon hot chile sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 bell peppers (diced)
- 1 large carrot (diced)
- 1 large Italian squash (diced)
- 1 broccoli head (diced)
- 2 yellow chiles (diced)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 tomato (diced)
- 1 avocado (diced)
- 1 pinch basil
- ½ cucumber
- salt
- pepper
- 1 small package buckwheat noodles
- 1 head of lettuce (iceberg, romaine, or a good taco-ing lettuce)

Method:

1. In mixing bowl, stir together vegetable stock, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, hot chile sauce, garlic, ginger and sesame seeds. Set aside.

2. Use remaining sesame oil in a wok or large frying pan. Set ho high heat. Toss in peppers, carrot, onion, squash, broccoli and yellow chiles. Saute until the vegetables start to change color.

3. Stir in sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. (Don’t use all the sauce, save it for dipping )

4. Remove from heat and let cool down to room temperature.

5. Boil buckwheat noodles and when finished rinse with cold water. Set aside.

6. Prepare lettuce “shells” to applicable size.

7. In bowl, mix together tomato, avocado, cucumber and a pinch of basil, salt and pepper.

Architecture:

1. lettuce
2. buckwheat noodles
3. vegetable filling
4. tomato/cucumber mixture
5. drizzle of leftover sauce

Monday, August 8, 2011

Appetizers

Vegetable Pizza Squares

Ingredients

    2 (10 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
    1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
    2/3 cup mayonnaise
    1 teaspoon dried dill weed
    1 teaspoon minced onion
    1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
    1/2 cup chopped cauliflower
    1/2 cup chopped broccoli
    1/2 cup chopped green bell peppers
    1 (8 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions

    Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
    Unroll crescent roll dough on a small baking sheet. Arrange into a single layer to serve as a crust. Bake in the preheated oven 10 minutes, or until puffed and lightly browned.
    In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill weed, onion and garlic.
    Spread the cream cheese mixture over the crescent roll dough crust. Layer with cauliflower, broccoli and green peppers. Top with Cheddar cheese. Chill in the refrigerator until serving.

Nutrition
per serving
Calories
499
Total Fat
39 g
Saturated Fat
14 g
Cholesterol
54 mg
Sodium
732 mg
Total Carbohydrates
24 g
Dietary Fiber
0 g
Protein
12 g


Cheesy Shrimp Dip
by Paula Deen

1/4 cup butter
2/3 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 pound medium fresh shrimp, peeled, deveined, and coarsely chopped
1/3 cup sliced green onions
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded Parmesan
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup mayonnaise
Pinch salt
Pinch cracked black pepper
Assorted crackers, for serving
Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the red bell pepper and cook for 3 minutes. Stir in the shrimp and green onions and cook until the shrimp are pink and firm, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the sour cream, cheeses, and mayonnaise. Add the salt and pepper, to taste. Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart baking dish. Bake until lightly browned and bubbly, 30 to 35 minutes. Serve with assorted crackers.


Smashed Potato Cake
by Paula Deen

6 cups cubed (1-inch) Yukon gold potatoes
3 1/2 cups panko, divided
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/2 cup chopped green onion
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup sour cream
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Directions

In a large Dutch oven, combine potatoes and add water to cover. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat, and simmer 10 to 12 minutes, or until tender. Drain well and mash.

In a large bowl, combine potatoes, 2 cups panko, egg, cheese, bacon, onion, butter, sour cream, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form potatoes into 3-inch patties; dredge in remaining panko.

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add potato patties, and cook, 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until brown and crisp. Serve immediately.


Crisp Potato Cakes
by Paula Deen

4 cups left over mashed potatoes, or Chive and Onion Mashed Potatoes, recipe follows
2 cups panko breadcrumbs, divided
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup vegetable oil, plus more, if needed

Chive and Onion Mashed Potatoes:

1 1/2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup chive and onion cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
Directions

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, 1 cup panko, and beaten egg. Shape the potato mixture into 3-inch patties. Dredge the patties in the remaining 1 cup panko.

In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Add half of the patties and cook until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Repeat the procedure with more oil, if needed, and remaining patties. Serve hot.

Chive and Onion Mashed Potatoes:

Boil the potatoes until done. Pour the potatoes into a medium bowl and add cream cheese and butter. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes to desired consistency. Serve immediately.


Summer Zucchini Bites

2 c.    grated zucchini
2    eggs, lightly beaten
½    yellow onion, finely chopped
½ c.    sharp cheddar, grated
½ c.    bread crumbs
¼ c.    fresh parsley, finely chopped

Makes approximately 24 mini-muffin sized bites
instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Butter a mini-muffin tin, set aside.
2. In a large glass bowl add two eggs and beat lightly with a whisk. Then, add the zucchini, onion, cheddar, bread crumbs and parsley and combine them with a wooden spoon.
3. Using your hands or an ice-cream scoop, fill each muffin cup just to the top. Bake  for 15-18 minutes or until the top is browned and set.


Easy Snack Wraps

Ingredients

    12 (10 inch) flour tortillas
    1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
    1 head lettuce
    1 (6 ounce) package sliced deli-style turkey
    2 cups shredded carrots
    2 cups minced tomato

Directions

    Spread cream cheese evenly over the tortillas. Top the cream cheese with lettuce leaves. Arrange the turkey slices in even layers on top of the lettuce. Sprinkle the carrots and tomato over the turkey slices. Roll the tortillas into wraps. Cut the wraps diagonally into bite-sized pieces. Secure with toothpicks.

Nutrition
per serving
Calories
67
Total Fat
2 g
Saturated Fat
1 g
Cholesterol
5 mg
Sodium
116 mg
Total Carbohydrates
9 g
Dietary Fiber
1 g
Protein
2 g

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Pizza for every meal

Taco Pizza

1 cup salsa
1 cup ground chicken, sausage, or beef, mixed with taco seasoning
1/2 cup white or black beans
2 cups montery jack cheese
1/4 cup scallions, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Spread the salsa on top of a prepared crust.  Sprinkle cheese across the crust.  Sprinkle meat and beans over the cheese. Bake in an oven preheated to 425 degrees for 14-16 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.  Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh diced scallions and cilantro before serving.

Easy Pizza Crust
1 packet yeast
1 cup very warm water
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2-2 1/2 cups flour
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup cornmeal

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Place the warm water in the bowl. Whisk the yeast and sugar into the bowl and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. The mixture should puff up slightly and foam around the top. Stir in two cups of flour, then slowly add flour by the tablespoon until the mixture is very soft, but not super sticky. Drizzle olive oil over the dough, then knead it carefully in the bowl until it’s elastic (about 3-5 minutes of kneading).

Sprinkle cornmeal on a pizza stone, then roll the pizza out on top of the cornmeal. Once a thin crust is formed, bake in preheated oven for 7-9 minutes.  Top with your favorite pizza toppings.

Potato and Pancetta Pizza

Ingredients

    4 Cups Yukon Gold potatoes
    1 teaspoon Salt
    2 Store-bought pizza dough
    2 tablespoons olive oil, plus some for brushing
    1/2 cup flour for "bench flour"
    3/4 cup corn meal for dusting
    1 pound pancetta, diced
    1 cup roasted red bell peppers, julienned
    1/2 pound taleggio cheese, sliced
    1/4 cup grated parmesan
    Pepper
    Basil for garnish
    Juice of 1/2 lime and zest of same

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt. Add the potatoes and cook until the potatoes are just tender but not fully cooked, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove the potatoes from the water and place on a towel to dry and cool. Once the potatoes have cooled enough to touch, slice them into 1/4 inch slices.

Meanwhile, cook the pancetta in a non-stick pan over medium heat until most of the fat has rendered out and crispy. Drain on a paper towel lined plate.

Dust a flat surface with flour and roll out the pizza dough until it is 1/4 of an inch thick.

Place the sliced potatoes on top of the pizza dough so that the entire surface is covered, drizzle olive oil over the top of the potatoes and place in the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the potatoes start to brown.

Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle with the cooked pancetta, red bell peppers, red pepper flakes and both cheeses. Place the pizza back in the oven and cook for about 7 more minutes until all of the cheese has melted and the top of the pizza begins to brown.

Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with cracked black pepper and chopped basil.

Let the pizza sit for a couple of minutes before cutting, drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with lime zest. Cut and serve.

A Couple of Basic Pizzas

Ingredients
Dough - Enough for 3 (16-inch) round pizzas:

    16 ounces all-purpose flour, plus extra for peel and rolling
    1 envelope instant or rapid rise yeast
    1 tablespoon kosher salt
    10 ounces warm water, approximately 105 degrees F
    2 tablespoons olive oil, plus 2 teaspoons for bowl
    1 tablespoon malted barley syrup

Margherita topping - Enough to top 1 (16-inch) round pizza:

    1 large tomato, cut into 1/3-inch thick slices
    5 to 7 teaspoons olive oil, divided
    2 cloves garlic, minced
    1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
    1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
    1/2-ounce grated Parmesan
    1 1/2 ounces part skim mozzarella, shredded
    4 to 6 large basil leaves, shredded

Date and prosciutto topping - Enough to top 1 (16-inch) round pizza:

    3 1/2 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
    3 to 6 teaspoons olive oil, divided
    1/2-ounce grated Parmesan
    1-ounce prosciutto ham, approximately 3 slices, coarsely chopped
    4 whole dates, pitted and finely chopped
    1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Nacho Pizza

    1 prepared pizza crust
    4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
    1/4 cup flour
    1/4 cup whole milk
    1/3 cup jalapeno peppers
    1/4 cup chopped purple onions, olives, and/ or tomatoes
    1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro and/or scallions
    1/2 cup sour cream

Prebake the pizza crust (if it’s not already baked) just slightly (about 6-8 minutes is usually enough).  In a large bowl, stir together the cheese, flour, and milk.  Spread over the pizza crust.  Sprinkle jalapenos, onions, olives, and tomatoes.  Bake in an oven preheated to 425 degrees for 14-16 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly.  Remove from oven, top with cilantro, scallions, and sour cream before serving.  Enjoy!

Nacho Bread Pizzas

Ingredients

    1 loaf baguette or semolina bread, day old is fine
    1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 1 turn of the pan
    2 cloves garlic, chopped
    1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped or 1 pickled hot pepper of any kind, chopped
    1 (15-ounce) can black beans
    2 teaspoons hot sauce
    1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
    1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
    Salt and pepper
    1 cup prepared salsa, any variety
    2 cups shredded Cheddar, smoked Cheddar, Monterey Jack or pepper Jack
    1 heart romaine or 1/2 iceberg head, shredded
    1/2 cup green olives with or without pimiento, chopped
    1/4 red onion or 2 to 3 scallions, chopped
    2 plum or vine tomatoes, seeded and diced

Directions

Split bread lengthwise. Hollow the bread out and cut each half in half across, making 4 boats.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add oil, 1 turn of the pan, garlic and hot peppers. Drain beans. Add half of the beans then mash the remainder of the beans in the can using a fork. Add mashed beans to the pan and combine with whole beans. Season beans with hot sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper. When the spicy beans are hot through, spread them evenly across all of the bread. Top with salsa and liberally sprinkle with cheese, covering bread to all edges. The boats will only be half-full. Melt cheese in the oven until it bubbles and begins to brown.

Top Nacho Bread Pizzas with lettuce, olives, onions and tomatoes and serve. You can pick it up with your hands, but eat over the plate (or the kitchen sink, like me).

Middle Eastern Pita Pizza with Pesto and Melted Feta

Ingredients
    2 cups lightly packed mint leaves
    1 large clove garlic
    2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
    1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts
    2 tablespoons olive oil
    3/4 teaspoon salt
    1/2 pound ground lamb or baked ground tofu
    1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
    4 whole wheat pitas
    1/3 cup nonfat plain yogurt
    1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions
In the bowl of a food processor, combine mint, garlic, and lemon juice, pulsing until mint is coarsely chopped; scrape down sides with a rubber spatula if needed. Add pine nuts, olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt, and continue pulsing until finely ground. Scrape into a medium bowl and set aside.

In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, cook lamb (or tofu). Break up pieces while cooking and continue until lightly browned, 5 to 7 minutes. Add remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and the pepper. Remove from heat and place in a colander; allow fat to drain for 10 minutes.

Preheat oven to 400°F. Add drained lamb (or tofu) to mint pesto and stir to combine. Place pitas on a baking sheet and spread each one with 2 tablespoons yogurt. Divide lamb mixture (or tofu) into fourths and spread over pitas; sprinkle with feta. Bake 10 to 12 minutes, until feta melts and pita is slightly toasted. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information:
Calories: 453 with lamb, 423 with soy
Protein: 24 grams (17% of calories in meal) with lamb, 29 grams (21%) with soy
Carbohydrates: 67 grams (46%) with lamb, 74 grams (54%) with soy
Fiber: 9 grams with lamb, 13 grams with soy
Fat: 27 grams (42%) with lamb, 18 grams (30%) with soy
Saturated fat: 9 grams with lamb, 5 grams with soy

Grilled Pizza with No-Cook Tomato Sauce

4 Servings | Prep 20 min | Cook 40 min

Ingredients:
* One can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
* 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for coating
* 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1 pound pizza dough from your favorite pizza shop or supermarket's refrigerator or freezer section, divided into 4 equal pieces
* 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded mozzarella
* Bunch of basil

Directions:
1. In a medium bowl, stir together the tomatoes, 1/4 cup of water, olive oil and the salt. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
2. Preheat a grill to medium-high. On a lightly oiled, inverted baking sheet, pat out 1 piece of pizza dough with your fingers into a free-form shape about 1/4 inch thick. Lift and transfer the dough onto the grill and cook with the grill cover down until the crust holds its shape and grill marks appear, about 3 minutes.
3. Using a spatula, flip the crust over onto the coolest part of the grill. Spoon a couple of tablespoons of the tomato sauce over the dough and scatter with about a 1/4 of the mozzarella. Cook with the grill cover down until the cheese is melted, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the pizza from the grill and top with basil leaves. Repeat with the remaining dough and toppings.

Fake-Out Pizza

Tomato Basil Thin Crust Pizza
4 Matzo Crackers (found in the Deli or Jewish food aisle of your grocery store)
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/2 cup asagio or parmesan cheese, shredded
2 fresh tomatoes, sliced thin
6-8 garlic cloves, chopped
salt & pepper to taste
1/2 cup fresh basil

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.  Place several mozzarella & tomato slices on each cracker.  Sprinkle with garlic, salt and pepper.  Transfer to a baking sheet and bake until cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.  Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh basil.  Enjoy!

Chicken and Corn Pizza

ingredients

    1 12-inch packaged prebaked pizza crust
    1 cup ricotta cheese
    1 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
    1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
    1 10-oz. pkg. frozen whole kernel corn in butter sauce
    1 6-oz. pkg. refrigerated cooked chicken breast strips
    1/2 cup coarsely chopped red sweet pepper
    1 Tbsp. finely shredded lemon peel
    2 tsp. dried tarragon
    1 tsp. bottled minced garlic
    1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
    1 2 1/4-oz can sliced pitted ripe olives, drained
    1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

directions

    Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Line baking sheet with foil. Coat foil with nonstick cooking spray. Place pizza crust on foil; set aside.
    In bowl combine ricotta, Parmesan, and black pepper. Spread on crust leaving 1/2-inch space around edge. Bake 5 minutes.
    Transfer corn and sauce from package to microwave-safe bowl. Microcook on high (100% power) 3 minutes. Stir. Microcook 1 minute more. Stir in chicken, sweet pepper, lemon peel, tarragon, and garlic. Remove pizza from oven. Spoon corn mixture over ricotta mixture on crust.
    Top with goat cheese and black olives. Bake 5 minutes more or until cheese and edges are lightly browned. Sprinkle with parsley before serving. Makes 4 servings.

recipe source
BHG.com

Breakfast Pizza Ideas

We cracked an egg on top of one of our pizza’s, sprinkled the dough with jack cheese, scallions, and bit of diced ham, then baked it all until bubbly. That wasn’t all we did. Making breakfast pizza’s is a simple way to kick your regular routine without a whole lot of fuss. Here are out ten top breakfast pizza combo’s. All you need is a pizza crust, a few basic ingredients, and you’re good to go!

1. SOUTHERN SAUSAGE PIZZA: Spread the crust with a tablespoon of Cream of Mushroom Soup. Top with cheddar cheese, crumbled sausage, and diced scallions. Bake until bubbly.

2. BLT PIZZA: Ranch dressing for sauce, topped with jack cheese, diced tomatoes, bacon bits, and chopped spinach. Bake until cheese is bubbly.

3. PIZZA SCRAMBLE: Toss your favorite scrambled eggs on top of your pizza crust. Sprinkle with your favorite cheese. Bake until cheese is melted. Garnish with chopped parsley.

4. PARMESAN-VEGGIE PIZZA: Pile your pizza high with zucchini slices, onions, red bell peppers, and a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Bake until golden brown.

5. GREEN CHILI & CHEDDAR PIZZA: Top your pizza with green enchilada sauce, scrambled eggs cheddar, black beans, and chopped red peppers. Bake until bubbly.

6. TOAD IN THE HOLE: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese atop your crust. Place whole sausage all across the top of your pizza crust. Sprinkle with a smidgen of white cheddar cheese. Bake until bubbly.

7. PIZZA QUICHE LORRAINE: Whisk together one egg, 2 tablespoons of cream, 2 tablespoons of diced ham, 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach, and 1/3 cup swiss cheese. Spread over a personal-sized pizza crust. Bake until golden brown. Garnish with chopped parsley.

8. JUEVOS RANCHEROS PIZZA: Spread salsa generously across your crust. Crack an egg on your crust, top with a sprinkling of cheddar cheese. Bake until the egg is cooked through. Top with sour cream and chopped cilantro.

9. GARDEN TOMATO BREAKFAST PIZZA: Spread pesto sauce on your pizza crust. Top with fresh tomato slices and fresh mozzarella. Sprinkle a bit of sea salt and fresh cracked pepper on top. Bake until cheese is melted.

10. WHITE BREAKFAST PIZZA:  Spread canned alfredo sauce over your pizza. Top with mushrooms, onion slices, and chopped cauliflower. Sprinkle a bit of mozzarella on top. Bake until cheese is melted.

Bacon & Sausage Pizza

1 tube of refrigerated pizza dough
1/4 tablespoon cornmeal
1 cup queso fresco cheese, grated or crumbled
12 grape tomatoes, halved
3 scallions, cleaned and chopped
2 slices thick bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup hot italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
3-5 eggs
salt & pepper
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
1) Spread a thin layer of cornmeal on a pizza stone or cookie sheet. Unroll the pizza dough over the cornmeal, turning up the edges just slightly to create a crust.

2) Bake the crust in an oven preheated to 425 degrees for 6-8 minutes.  Remove the crust and immediately sprinkle it with queso fresco cheese though, of course, any grated cheese will do), tomatoes, and green onions.

3) Use your finger to make small “wells” in the cheese, and crack the eggs into the center of each well.  Sprinkle with bacon, sausage, and salt and pepper to taste.

4) Return to oven an bake an additional 6-8 minutes, just until the eggs are set slightly.  Watch it closely!  It doesn’t take long for it to overcook! (If you’d like the yolks of your eggs cooked through, leave the pizza in the oven for 2-3 minutes more.)

5) Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.  Enjoy!

Bacon and Egg Breakfast Pizza

    1 prepared pizza crust
    1 1/2 cups premade alfredo sauce or homemade Sausage & Cream gravy
    1 cup Italian blend cheese, grated
    5-6 eggs
    1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled

Before you begin: if using a storebought or fresh pizza dough, spread the dough onto a pizza pan sprinkled lightly with cornmeal and bake in an oven preheated to 400 degrees for 7 minutes.

To make the pizza: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.  Spread the alfredo sauce on the pizza dough.  Sprinkle with cheese. Use the back of a spoon to make 5-6 small wells in the sauce and cheese.  Crack an egg into the center of each well.  Sprinkle with bacon.  Salt and pepper to taste.  Bake in oven for 8-15 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness of the eggs.  (We like fully cooked whites and soft, runny yolks, which takes about 12 minutes in our stove).

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Breakfast!

Campfire Johnny Cakes
“Built for the wilderness. Campfire tested, weekend warrior approved.” – Ben Blascoe

Ingredients:
• 1 box Krusteaz Corn Bread Mix
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 cup olive or vegetable oil
• 1 large jalapeño (diced, de-seeded)
• Cinnamon sugar

Tools:
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Fork
• Mixing Bowl

Method:

1. Mix corn bread, jalapeño, 1/3 cup oil and water to mixing bowl.

2. Drizzle olive oil in skillet, place over heat to warm up. Looking for medium high heat.

3. Applying pancake principles, drip batter into skillet. Roughly “half/dollar” to “corn tortilla” size. When the cakes start to acquire a good amount bubbles on the surface, that’s when you start looking for the flip. The other side will cook a little quicker, so watch them. You’re looking for a deep golden brown on both sides.

4. When cakes are done (you will probably only be able to do 2 – 4 at a time) sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

5. Cool and serve


Per muffin: 272 calories; 9 g fat ( 2 g sat , 6 g mono ); 39 mg cholesterol; 44 g carbohydrates; 20 g added sugars; 6 g protein; 3 g fiber; 239 mg sodium; 184 mg potassium.

Nutrition Bonus: Iron (20% daily value).


fig and goat cheese muffins

Ingredients

    3/4 cup crumbled soft goat cheese or reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufch
    2 tablespoons honey
    1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
    1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
    2 cups white whole-wheat flour (see Note)
    1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    1/4 teaspoon salt
    2 large eggs
    1 large egg white
    3/4 cup packed dark or light brown sugar
    1 cup low-fat or nonfat buttermilk
    1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    1 1/4 cups chopped dried figs
    3 tablespoons turbinado (see Note) or granulated sugar
Preparation

    Preheat oven to 425°F. Line 12 (1/2-cup) muffin cups with paper liners or coat with cooking spray.
    Thoroughly combine goat cheese (or cream cheese), honey, lemon zest and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla in a small bowl. Set aside.
    Whisk flour (see Measuring Tip), baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. Lightly beat eggs and egg white in a medium bowl; add brown sugar and the remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla and whisk until the sugar is dissolved, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in buttermilk and oil until smooth. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix. Fold in figs.
    Spoon half the batter into the prepared muffin cups. Add 1 generous teaspoon of the reserved cheese filling to the center of each muffin, and cover with the remaining batter. (The filling should not be visible.) Sprinkle the muffins with sugar.
    Bake the muffins until the edges start to brown and the tops spring back when gently pressed, 13 to 15 minutes. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool.

Creamy Hash Brown Casserole

Recipe Courtesy of Paula Deen
Servings: 8 to 10 servings
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 50 min
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients Add to grocery list

1/4 cup butter, plus more for dish
1 onion, chopped
1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
1 (10 1/2-ounce) can cream of celery soup
1 (8-ounce) package shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 (30-ounce) package frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups crushed potato chips
Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly butter a casserole dish.

In a small skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add onion, and cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until soft. Pour mixture into a large bowl. Add the sour cream, cream of celery soup, cheese, garlic powder, hash browns, and salt and pepper. Combine until well blended.

Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Top evenly with crushed potato chips and bake for 45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

The Perfect Stanwich

Ingredients:

    2 slices bacon
    1 large ciabatta loaf, halved horizontally and cut crosswise into quarters
    Perfect Saute Seasoning or salt and freshly ground white or black pepper
    1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
    1 red onion, sliced 1/2 inch thick
    8 large eggs
    Several dashes of hot sauce
    2 tablespoons unsalted butter
    1 cup (4 ounces) grated aged cheddar cheese

Method:

In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crisp, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate. Reserve the pan fat.

Preheat the broiler.

Place the 8 pieces of bread cut side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with the bacon fat and season lightly.

Heat the oil in a grill pan or skillet over high heat until hot, but not smoking. Grill or sear the onions with a pinch of seasoning until charred and tender, 5 to 7 minutes, turning once. Crumble in the bacon.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, a pinch of seasoning, and the hot sauce until slightly frothy. Melt the butter in a nonstick or other skillet. Add the eggs and sprinkle with the cheese. Once the eggs have begun to very lightly set, begin to stir them gently using a heat-proof rubber spatula. Make sure to scrape all edges of the pan. Continue this process until the eggs are creamy and just cooked through, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and cover.

Broil the bread until lightly toasted, about 1 minute (watch closely to see that it does not burn). Divide 4 slices of bread among 4 serving plates. Place some of the scrambled eggs on each slice. Spoon the onion-bacon mixture over the eggs. Top with the remaining slices of bread.
Variations:

The Suzannewich
Stan’s wife, Suzanne, loves this open-faced breakfast sandwich with chorizo and onions. To make it, sauté fresh chorizo sausage (removed from the casing) with some chopped yellow onion and a garlic clove or two. Top a slice of toasted country white bread with a fried egg (preferably over-easy), and sprinkle the top with the chorizo mixture and some grated Monterey Jack cheese. If you have tomatillo salsa or a julienned roasted poblano chile pepper on hand, add a little of that before sprinkling with the cheese. Place under the broiler until the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes.

Corrie’s Granola Waffles with Buttered Pecan Syrup
by Paula Deen

Buttered Pecan Syrup:

2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
Waffles:

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3 eggs
2 cups buttermilk
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup your favorite granola
Directions

To make the syrup, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and cook until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the maple syrup and salt and cook, stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes, until thickened.

To make waffles, heat a waffle iron. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and fold to combine.

Cook the waffles according to the directions for your waffle iron. Usually it will take 4 to 6 minutes for the waffles to turn golden and the waffle iron to stop releasing steam, which indicates that they’re done.

Sprinkle the granola over the waffles and serve immediately with the buttered pecan maple syrup.

Souffled Grit Pudding
by Paula Deen

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for the souffle dish
1/2 cup sugar, plus 2 tablespoons, plus more for souffle dish
2 1/2 cups milk
1 cup half-and half
1 cup quick cooking grits
Pinch salt
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
3 eggs, separated
Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Butter the bottom and sides of a 2-quart souffle dish and coat the surface evenly with the sugar, tapping out the excess.

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, and half-and-half, 1/2 cup sugar, and the butter. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Very slowly, to avoid lumps, whisk in the grits and salt. Add the egg yolks to a small bowl and the egg whites to a large bowl. Stir a little of the hot grits, into the egg yolks, to temper, then add the yolks to the pan and whisk to combine. Add the lemon zest, cinnamon and nutmeg. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thickened and cooked through, about 15 minutes.

Using an electric mixer, whip the egg whites to soft peaks. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Fold 1/3 of the meringue into the grits to lighten, and then fold in the remaining meringue. Scrape the batter into the prepared souffle dish and bake in the center oven rack until the souffle is golden but the center still jiggles, 40 to 45 minutes. Serve immediately.