The Green Pantry

The BEST chocolate cake ever! Compliments from Barefoot Contessa

2011-03-27T17:50:00.000-07:00

I am not a baker. As a matter of fact I really dislike baking. Even worse frosting a cake! However, I have to say that this recipe really makes me want to LOVE baking for once. It is the perfect combination of chocolate flavor with a splash of coffee in every bite. Not overly sweet and sugary either. It's just has the perfect balance. My husband had 3 pieces the first night and I had 3 pieces the next day! Remember, I don't like baking and I am not a dessert lover until this recipe came along. A must have to pass down to the kids!. Enjoy and may you start the LOVE of baking. xo

Ingredients
Butter, for greasing the pans
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for pans
2 cups sugar
3/4 cups good cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup buttermilk, shaken
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 extra-large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee
Directions
Chocolate Buttercream, recipe follows

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter 2 (8-inch) round cake pans. Line with parchment paper, then butter and flour the pans.

Sift the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and mix on low speed until combined. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry. With mixer still on low, add the coffee and stir just to combine, scraping the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until a cake tester comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 30 minutes, then turn them out onto a cooling rack and cool completely.

Place 1 layer, flat side up, on a flat plate or cake pedestal. With a knife or offset spatula, spread the top with frosting. Place the second layer on top, rounded side up, and spread the frosting evenly on the top and sides of the cake.

Chocolate Frosting:
6 ounces good semisweet chocolate (recommended: Callebaut)

1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 extra-large egg yolk, at room temperature

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 1/4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar

1 tablespoon instant coffee powder

Chop the chocolate and place it in a heat-proof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Stir until just melted and set aside until cooled to room temperature.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until light yellow and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg yolk and vanilla and continue beating for 3 minutes. Turn the mixer to low, gradually add the confectioners' sugar, then beat at medium speed, scraping down the bowl as necessary, until smooth and creamy. Dissolve the coffee powder in 2 teaspoons of the hottest tap water. On low speed, add the chocolate and coffee to the butter mixture and mix until blended. Don't whip! Spread immediately on the cooled cake.

Arroz con Pollo

2010-07-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

Arroz con Pollo

1/4 cup olive oil
Ground Annato Anchiote ( found in latin section)
Whole chicken cut into parts. Remove skin to reduce fat
1 large yellow onion diced
10 cloves garlic, minced
1 green pepper diced
1 jar capers or green olives(optional)
2 cups long grain rice
12 basil leaves cut into strips
Fresh Parsley Handful, cut up
4-5 cups chicken broth
3 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste ( 1/2 teaspoon I used)
1/2 cup frozen peas
Garnishes: Pimentos or roasted red peppers in jar

Directions

Place 1/4 cup of olive oil in large stockpot. Heat oil on high and place chicken pieces in pot and brown - this is done just to brown chicken NOT to cook it. Add enough Annato Anchiote to slightly cover all the chicken. Brown chicken, but do not burn. Remove chicken from pot and place onion, garlic, green pepper in pot. Cook for awhile until soft, but do not burn garlic. Put capers in pot. Add rice to the pot with onion, garlic and pepper, then swirl rice into the mixture. Allow rice to cook for a few minutes. Place cut up basil and parsley in pot. Add broth, bay leaves, salt and pepper and simmer. Cook until rice is soft and tender. If needed add more broth if you would like recipe to be more juicy.
Add peas before serving.

Serve by placing the rice and chicken on a large platter and decorate with slice of pimentos or roasted red peppers.

Soy-Honey Pork with Sweet Potatoes

2010-02-20T05:44:00.000-08:00

1/4 cup(s) lower-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoon(s) hoisin sauce
2 tablespoon(s) honey
1 tablespoon(s) rice vinegar
1 teaspoon(s) grated peeled fresh ginger
2 clove(s) garlic, crushed with press
1 whole pork tenderloin 1 1/4 lbs.
1 1/2 pound(s) sweet potatoes
1 tablespoon(s) vegetable oil
Salt
Pepper
2 green onions

Directions

Preheat oven to 475 degrees F. In small bowl, whisk soy sauce, hoisin, honey, vinegar, ginger, and half of garlic until well blended. Pour into gallon-size resealable plastic bag. Add pork; seal bag and turn until pork is well coated. Set aside.

While pork marinates, peel sweet potatoes. Cut each into 1/2-inch-thick rounds. In large bowl, combine oil and remaining garlic. Add sweet potatoes, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Toss until well coated.

Transfer pork from marinade to center of 18 inch by 12 inch jelly-roll pan, shaking any excess marinade off into bag. Tuck tapered ends under pork to ensure even cooking. Arrange sweet potato rounds in single layer on pan around pork. Roast 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, transfer marinade to 2- qt. saucepan. Heat to boiling and simmer gently for 3 minutes or until syrupy.
Transfer half of marinade to small serving bowl and set aside. Turn sweet potatoes and pork over and brush remaining marinade on pork. Roast 10 to 15 minutes longer. or pork registers 155 F.

Cover and let stand for 5 minutes.

Cut green onions crosswise and sprinkle across dish and serve.

PLEASE NOTE: I doubled the marinade and used to 2 lbs. of pork and it was So worth it. I also doubled the garlic. enjoy

Roasted Chicken with Winter Vegetables

2010-02-18T18:26:00.000-08:00

Winter Vegetables are absolutely scrumptious! I must say I have never had turnips before and now I am hooked! The more veggies the yummier. I added more carrots from the garden too. Why not? They are the best when roasted. Oh, so tender on the inside and crunchy around the edges. I even added some beets straight out of the garden. DEEELICIOUS :)

Thanks to a Good Housekeeping magazine at the doctors office was I able to find this meal and some more. I'll post more as I go along. Bon Appetit!

1 large (10- to 12-ounce) onion, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
1 pound(s) baby red potatoes, each cut in half or quarters if large
4 large (1/4 pound each) carrots, each cut 2-inch-long pieces
2 small (2 ounces each) turnips, peeled and each cut into 6 wedges
1 small (6-ounce) fennel bulb, trimmed, cored, and cut into 6 wedges
8 sprig(s) fresh thyme, plus additional for garnish
7 clove(s) garlic, crushed with side of knife, peel discarded
1 tablespoon(s) olive oil
1 teaspoon(s) olive oil
Salt
Pepper
1 whole(s) (3- 3 1/2-pound) chicken

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. In 18 inch by 12 inch jelly-roll pan, arrange onion slices in single layer in center. In large bowl, toss potatoes, carrots, turnips, fennel, 4 thyme sprigs, 3 garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until well mixed. Spread in even layer around onion slices in pan.

If necessary, remove bag with giblets and neck from chicken cavity; discard or reserve for another use. Rub chicken cavity with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Place remaining 4 thyme sprigs and 4 garlic cloves in cavity and tie legs together with kitchen string. Rub remaining 1 teaspoon oil on chicken and sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.

Place chicken, breast side up, on onion slices in pan. Roast 45 minutes or until juices run clear when thickest part of thigh is pierced with tip of knife and temperature on meat thermometer inserted into thickest part of thigh reaches 175 degrees F. Let chicken stand on pan 10 minutes to set juices for easier carving.

Meanwhile, transfer vegetables around chicken to serving platter, leaving space in center for chicken. Transfer chicken and onion to serving platter with vegetables, tilting chicken slightly as you lift to allow any juices inside to run into pan. Skim and discard fat from juices in pan; pour into small bowl and serve with chicken. Garnish with additional thyme sprigs.

Cabbage Potato Soup by Emeril

2010-01-05T14:37:00.000-08:00

Okay ladies and gentleman as most of you know I would rather be a vegetarian, but this soup was amazing. My husband picked it out since we had a whole fresh cabbage from our garden. How could I say no to his efforts. I hope you enjoy it on a wintery day like today in Florida.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons oil
3 cups chopped onion
3 cups shredded white cabbage
2 cups grated Idaho potatoes
2 quarts chicken stock
8 to 10 ounces corned beef, cut into 2 by 3-inch strips (1 cup)
2 cups grated carrots
1 cup cream
Salt and pepper ( tons of peppercorn)
I added a bay leaf

Directions
In a soup pot heat 1 tablespoon oil, add onions and cook until tender, 3 minutes. Add cabbage and potatoes and stir to coat. Add stock, bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small skillet saute corned beef strips in remaining oil until crisp; drain on paper towels. Add carrots and cream to soup and simmer 10 minutes more. Stir in corned beef strips and adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. ( I actually let it simmer VERY low for several hours. It allowed the corn beef to get tender.)

Penne Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes, Feta Cheese, & Pine Nuts

2009-12-13T16:54:00.000-08:00

Lil David said "what's for dinner mom"? I had no idea what to make. Fifteen minutes later I made up this easy simple meal. What saved me is I always have fresh basil in my garden and the rest was around for " just in case I need it kinda staple". I use sundried tomatoes for so many last minute ideas and the pine nuts always seem to compliment the tomatoes. Enjoy.

1 pound penne pasta
4 garlic cloves, minced and crushed
1/4 cup olive oil
Sea Salt and peppercorn, to taste ( the kind you have to grind)
1 bunch basil, chopped
1 bag of sun-dried tomatoes found in produce aisle
4 oz. low fat feta cheese
4 tablespoons of Pine nuts

( You can even add fresh parmesan or a fresh vegetable such as brocolli or asparagus or left over chicken! )

Directions
Cook pasta according to directions. Drain. Set aside in Large bowl.

In same pot saute garlic in olive oil until tender. Add salt & pepper and sundried tomatoes. Add to the pasta along with the basil feta cheese and pine nuts. Toss to mix. Adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve immediately.

Herb Roasted Whole Chicken

2009-10-26T09:33:00.001-07:00

Whole Chicken ( i prefer an organic one)
2 tsp. dried mustard
3 garlic cloves mashed and minced
1 tbs. dried rosemary
1 tbs. fresh sage
1 tsp. fresh thyme
2 tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
2 tbs olive oil
2 tbs lemon juice
1 cup dry white wine

Preheat oven to 325.
Place the chicken on a roasting pan.
In a small bowl mix all ingredients except the wine. Make a paste and smear unto meat. Pour wine in the bottom of pan.

Bake for about 1 hour or until your thermometer reaches "poultry ready temperature".

You can also make this recipe with a turkey breast.

Roasted Red Pepper Soup

2009-10-25T17:37:00.000-07:00

Broil 3 large red peppers turning as needed until charred. About 10-12 minutes. Allow the skin to look bubbly. It will be easier to peel. Cool and remove stem, seeds, and peel.
Peel and chop 3 yukon gold potatoes.
Cook 1 large onion in olive oil until transclucent. Add potatoes and 4 cups of chicken broth. Simmer gently until potatoes are tender.
Puree in small batches in a blender. Place a towel over blender and leave lid slightly open to prevent heat explosion.

Serve with a drizzle of Virgin Olive oil or sprinkle shredded cheese.

Add sea salt and fresh peppercorn as desired.

My kids LOVED this recipe.
I also use Roasted Red Peppers that come in a jar on a last minute need.

Green Bean & Potato Salad with Ale dressing. YUMMY

2009-10-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

We were invited today to go to an Oktoberfest Party and of course the side dish had to be German. I went on foodnetwork and tried to figure out what in the world I was going to make. Here it is ! Delicious. I made some of my own changes to make it my way and a lil healthier. It was a hit! I also DOUBLED the whole recipe and it was just perfect for a party. Hope u enjoy.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon Italian salad dressing mix
1/4 cup ale style beer
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons malt vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt
1 lb. of fresh beans ( i like the ones that come in the microwavable bags in the produce section ready to cook)
1 lb. red creamer potatoes with skin
1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in 1/2
1/4 cup real crumbled bacon about 1/2 bag. ( you can use turkey bacon too)
Directions
Combine salad dressing mix, beer, mustard, vinegar and olive oil in a jar or container with a lid. Shake vigorously; set aside.

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add salt and green beans and blanch for 6 minutes. Remove beans from pot and keep water to boil potatoes. Bring water to a boil and add potatoes. Boil till tender. In the meantime, strain and cool beans in an ice bath.

Combine potatoes, green beans, tomatoes, and bacon. Sprinkle sea salt and fresh peppercorn to taste.
Toss with dressing and serve

Printable Grocery List Link

2009-10-18T10:30:00.001-07:00

Sometimes good ole paper is calling me! This is a great reprintable Grocery Shopping List that is broken down from produce, beverages, condiments, snacks, etc.

I hope I made your day a little easier. :)

http://www.organizedtimes.com/assets/files/forms/grocery-list.pdf

Here's another one.

http://www.workingmom.com/grocery_list/

Link to Fall Recipes. They sound so delicious.

2009-10-08T19:37:00.001-07:00

http://www.sunset.com/food-wine/fast-fresh/fall-quick-dinner-recipes-00400000051453/

Ropa Vieja by Carmencita

2009-10-07T14:15:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl and till this day my mom calls me Carmencita. It means lil Carmen. Carmencita would request this dish all the time! I haven't made in years and today I decided to make it "my way". So, here it goes.

3 pounds flank steak or brisket (cut off all fat)
3/4 cup Seasoning rub - recipe follows
1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
3 bottles beer ( i use Mexican beer!)
3 tbs. olive oil
1 red yellow onion chopped
1 green bell peppers, cored, seeded, ribbed and chopped
6 scallions, chopped
6 cloves garlic, peeled, smashed and then cut. Don't forget the smash.
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes-about 3/4 of the can
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste -about 1/2 of the can
Optional: 3 ounces of chopped piementos/ and/or 3 large Red Roasted Peppers
Sea Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste ( i use very lil salt.) Kosher salt is great too.

Seasoning Rub:

2 1/2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons onion powder
2 tablespoons dried oregano
2 tablespoons lemon pepper
2 tablespoons parsley flakes
2 tablespoons achoite powder from annatto seed (found in a lil bag in the Spanish section)
1 tablespoon cumin powder

Directions:

Make seasoning rub by mixing all ingredients with the Worcestershire sauce. Rub unto the meat. Place meat in a container and pour the 3 bottles of beer over it. Marinade for an hour in the fridge. You can place directly into the crockpot for less to wash!

In a crockpot cook seasoned meat with the beer for about 3 hours on low. Take meat out and cut up into large sections. Cook on high for about 2-3 hours more or until it has shredded completely.

Sautee pepper, onion, garlic and scallions in the olive oil until onion is translucent. Add the tomato cans and the optional ingredients and simmer for about 20 minutes. If desired you can press a garlic at this point and pour over pot...simmer for a few more minutes for a garlic bang!

Serve over white rice and garnish with fresh parsley.

Natural Cleaner Recipe-Gentle on the nose!

2009-09-27T07:13:00.000-07:00

Toxic smelling fumes alarm me. Why spend tons of money on cleaning products when you can make your own from natural ingredients. The best part is you choose your own scent. Drop a couple drops of your favorite essential oil for the final touch.

One plastic spray bottle

2 cups warm water
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon of dish soap
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Mix all of the ingredients in the bottle. Top it with more warm water and add several drops of your favorite oil. I love orange scented oils or lavendar.

Bless your family today & GO GREEN!

Odwall Protein Monster Shake! Yummy 91% Organic!

2009-08-31T18:12:00.000-07:00

I was at the grocery store today when I was having one of those moments were I could eat anything and everything. Forgot, my snack! Oh, my gosh....I kept thinking what can I eat? I remembered my husband telling me about Odwalla. Walking was not fast enough to cure the shakies at this point. Bang! There it was awaiting for HUNGRY ME! I couldn't resist the Chocolate choice. Instantly, I drank half of it and that was enough. It was so darn good I emptied out the whole shelf. Both vanilla and chocolate.

Nutritional Facts

2 servings
Calories per serving 200
Protein 18 per serving
Carbs 24

Loaded with 100% of B6 and B12.

" Eat Clean" recipes

2009-08-16T14:53:00.001-07:00

Roasted Asparagus

1 lb. Fresh Asparagus
2 tbs. Extra virgin olive oil
1 tbs. balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic
Sea Salt & Fresh Ground Black Pepper to taste
Cooking Spray

Preheat oven to 425. Break off stems of each spear and rinse well. Place asparagus
in Large Ziploc bag.
Mix oil, vinegar, garlic, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Pour into bag with asparagus and shake bag gently to coat asparagus evenly.

Lay in a single layer in a shallow baking pan with cooking spray.

Bake 6-10 minutes until done.
Top with fresh Parmesan or just plain.
Enjoy. Our family loves this recipe.

Linguine with Sundried Tomatoes

1 cup of frozen early green peas
1 cup of edamamae ( found in the healthy frozen section in bags)
1 lb. whole wheat linguine
6tbs. extra virgin olive oil
6 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
2 shallots, peeled and minced
1 cup or more sundried tomatoes chopped (not in oil..usually it's the produce section)
1/2 cup low sodium , low fat chicken or vegetable broth.
Sea Salt & Fresh Black pepper
1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped

1. Flash cook peas and edamame until just tender but firm. Drain and set aside. Cook pasta in the same water.

2. In large skillet, saute garlic and shallots in olive oil. Add sundried tomatoes, peas, and broth. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat and immediately add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss lightly.

3. Add the salt and pepper to taste. I prefer fresh sea salt and peppercorn always in all of our meals. Garnish with the chopped parsley. ( Parsley & Basil come straight from our garden and we always find great use for them.)

My favorite Chick!

2009-08-02T15:22:00.000-07:00

Love all her smoothie recipes. So, if you have been to my house and had a delicious healthy shake it's probably from Tosca Reno's recipes. YUM

The Bent Creek Sandwich from Poppies Market in Brevard, N.C.

2009-08-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

The Bent Creek was my top favorite lunch meal while traveling the Carolina's. It is often during our travels that we try to find unique healthy markets that carry organic, homemade foods. Boy, was this the place. Oh, it was an amazing store. The first day I had beet salad along with the Bent Creek and the next day I had the same! David had a Bison burger that was delicious too. As most of you know I am not much for red meats, but this roast beef sandwich was just perfect.

Fresh Whole Wheat NUTTY bread
Boar's Head Roast Beef (shaved)
Smoked Provolone Cheese
4-5 slices of fresh Spinach leaves
1 slice of vine ripe tomatoe
Roasted sweet red pepper
Boars Head Horseradish spread

Hope you love....

Grilled Jerk Rubbed Chicken with Habanero-Mint Glaze

2009-07-16T10:26:00.000-07:00

Courtesy from Bobby Flay!
This is our TOP favorite recipe at home these days. We even make it several times a week. Get ready for the spices because you are going to need LOTS of them. The habanero powder can be replaced with a Chipolte powder by Mrs. Dash if you can't find it.

I like to alter the method of prepartion for the glaze. I half the all vinegar and sugar and then bring it to a boil and simmer for while. Cool it off and place in blender. Add remaining ingredients. You can also add the other half if you want to make it the original portion. The reason I halfed it is b/c it doesn't thicken as well.

Ingredients
Jerk Rub:
3 tablespoons ground coriander
3 tablespoons ground ginger
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 tablespoons onion powder
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons habanero powder
1 tablespoon dry thyme
2 teaspoons coarse black pepper
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons ground allspice
2 teaspoons ground cloves
Habanero-Mint Glaze:
1 1/2 cups red wine vinegar
1 1/2 cups white wine vinegar
3 cups sugar
1 habanero chile, chopped
1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh mint leaves
Salt
Chicken
2 pounds chicken thighs, legs and breasts, skin on and bone in
Canola oil
Jerk Rub:
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl.

Habanero-Mint Glaze:
Place vinegar and sugar in a medium nonreactive saucepan and cook over medium-high heat until the sugar is completely melted and the mixture is reduced by 1/2 and is thick. Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and add the habanero and mint and blend until smooth. Season with salt. Let the glaze cool to room temperature.

Chicken:
Preheat grill to medium or heat grill pan over medium heat. Rub 1 side of each chicken with 2 tablespoons of the jerk rub and drizzle with canola oil. Grill, rub-side down for 3 to 4 minutes or until a crust has formed, brush with some of the Haberno-Mint Glaze and turn the chicken over and continue grilling for 7 to 8 minutes or until just cooked through. Brush with more of the glaze and serve immediately.

What are the Wilson's eating this week? hmmm

2009-05-03T09:40:00.000-07:00

Came across a Cooking light magazine at the doc's office and instantly I became HUNGRY! I wanted to take the magazine home and start cooking, but that would NOT be nice. So, I found them online under www.coolinglight.com. I'll save you time and you can just take them from here. :) Now, I haven't tested them yet, but will this week. Let me know if you make them. ;)

Spicy Honey-Brushed Chicken Thighs

Skinless, boneless thighs cook quickly and are more flavorful than white meat, so they need fewer ingredients. Serve with garlic-roasted potato wedges and a salad or broccolini.

2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper
8 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
Cooking spray
6 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons cider vinegar

Preheat broiler.

Combine first 6 ingredients in a large bowl. Add chicken to bowl; toss to coat. Place chicken on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray. Broil chicken 5 minutes on each side.

Combine honey and vinegar in a small bowl, stirring well. Remove chicken from oven; brush 1/4 cup honey mixture on chicken. Broil 1 minute. Remove chicken from oven and turn over. Brush chicken with remaining honey mixture. Broil 1 additional minute or until chicken is done.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 2 chicken thighs)

CALORIES 321 (31% from fat); FAT 11g (sat 3g,mono 4.1g,poly 2.5g); IRON 2.1mg; CHOLESTEROL 99mg; CALCIUM 21mg; CARBOHYDRATE 27.9g; SODIUM 676mg; PROTEIN 28g; FIBER 0.6g

Orange-Glazed Salmon Fillets with Rosemary

Fresh rosemary and a little maple syrup infuse aromatic and faintly sweet flavor into this speedy seafood dish.

4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets (1 inch thick)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cooking spray
2 tablespoons minced shallots
1/4 cup dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
3/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
1 tablespoon maple syrup

1. Sprinkle fillets evenly with salt and pepper. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add fillets; cook 2 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork or until desired degree of doneness. Remove from pan.

2. Recoat pan with cooking spray. Add shallots; sauté 30 seconds. Stir in wine and rosemary; cook 30 seconds or until liquid almost evaporates. Add juice and syrup; bring to a boil, and cook 1 minute. Return fillets to pan; cook 1 minute on each side or until thoroughly heated.

Seasoned haricots verts: Cook 1 pound haricots verts in boiling water 3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain; rinse with cold water. Pat dry. Combine with 1/3 cup chopped roasted red bell pepper and 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts. Combine 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon dry mustard. Toss with bean mixture.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 1 fillet and 1 1/2 tablespoons sauce)

CALORIES 226 ; FAT 5.6g (sat 1.4g,mono 2g,poly 1.7g); CHOLESTEROL 70mg; CALCIUM 70mg; CARBOHYDRATE 9.5g; SODIUM 311mg; PROTEIN 30.4g; FIBER 0.2g; IRON 1.1mg

Baked Shrimp with Feta

Dig into a delicious seafood bake topped with tomatoes and feta cheese for a company-worthy dinner in a flash. Orzo accented with fresh herbs completes this Mediterranean-inspired meal.

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cooking spray
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 cup prechopped onion
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons bottled clam juice
1 tablespoon white wine
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup (2 ounces) crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

1. Preheat oven to 450°.

2. Combine lemon juice and shrimp in a large bowl; toss well. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add oil to pan, swirling to coat. Add onion to pan; sauté 1 minute. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add clam juice, wine, oregano, pepper, and tomatoes; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes. Stir in shrimp mixture. Place mixture in an 11 x 7–inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle cheese evenly over mixture. Bake at 450° for 12 minutes or until shrimp are done and cheese melts. Sprinkle with parsley; serve immediately.

Orzo with fresh herbs: Cook 1 cup orzo pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain; toss orzo with 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 1 cup)

CALORIES 253 ; FAT 7.1g (sat 2.8g,mono 1.9g,poly 1.4g); CHOLESTEROL 271mg; CALCIUM 182mg; CARBOHYDRATE 8.1g; SODIUM 516mg; PROTEIN 37.5g; FIBER 1.6g; IRON 4.7mg

Chipotle Sloppy Joes

Add Mexican-inspired spice to this traditional family favorite.

Cooking spray
2 1/2 cups presliced Vidalia or other sweet onion
1 (7-ounce) can chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
1 pound ground sirloin
1/2 cup prechopped green bell pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 (8-ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce
5 (1 1/2-ounce) hamburger buns, toasted

1. Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add onion to pan; cover and cook 8 minutes or until golden brown, stirring frequently. Remove from heat; set aside.

2. Remove 1 teaspoon adobo sauce from can; set aside. Remove 1 chipotle chile from can; chop and set aside. Reserve remaining chiles and adobo sauce for another use.

3. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add beef to pan; cook 4 minutes or until browned, stirring to crumble. Add bell pepper to pan; sauté 2 minutes. Stir in chopped chipotle chile, adobo sauce, tomato paste, and next 3 ingredients (through tomato sauce); cook 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Spoon 1/2 cup beef mixture over bottom half of each bun, and top evenly with onions and top half of bun.

Plate with pickle chips and a simple slaw. Combine 1/3 cup canola-based mayonnaise, 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard in a large bowl; stir with a whisk. Add 3 cups packaged cabbage-and-carrot coleslaw, tossing well to combine.

Yield: 5 servings (serving size: 1 sandwich)

CALORIES 273 ; FAT 6.1g (sat 2.1g,mono 2.1g,poly 1.3g); CHOLESTEROL 48mg; CALCIUM 84mg; CARBOHYDRATE 32.1g; SODIUM 724mg; PROTEIN 23.3g; FIBER 3.4g; IRON 3.7mg

Cooking Light, APRIL 2009

Carmen's Favorite Tomato Soup

2009-04-22T17:07:00.000-07:00

1 Tbs. olive oil
1 1/2 cups minced onion
4 to 5 cloves garlic, crushed and then minced.
1/2 tsp salt
Fresh ground pepper LOTS
1 1LB., 12oz can of Crushed tomatoes
2 cups water
1 tbs. honey

Heat olive oil in a medium-large pot. Add onion,garlic,salt, and black pepper. Cook till onions are translucent. About 5-8 minutes.

Add canned tomatoes,water, and honey. Cover and simmer over low heat about 20 to 30 minutes.

Five minutes before serving add the optional ingredients:
2 medium sized tomatoes
Fresh crushed garlic

Add the following ingredients after served as toppings: Optional

1 tsp. Sourcream
Minced scallions
Minced parsley or fresh basil

At our home we love to add fresh herbs. Basil or parsley compliment the soup just right.

Enjoy!
By the way I like to double it up and keep some for the week for lunch. I always think it taste better the next day.

Green Beans with Roasted Red Peppers and Pine Nuts - created on a quiet night cw

2009-04-04T18:00:00.000-07:00

Fresh Green Beans about 25 or more.
About 4 tablespoons of diced Roasted Red Peppers
About 3 tablespoons of pine nuts
1 tablespoon Olive oil or Avocado Oil
2 tablespoon garlic cloves minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Fresh pepper to taste.
2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons of water

Sautee olive oil on medium heat and add garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes being careful the garlic does not burn. Add green beans and sautee for about 6-8 minutes. Add remainder of ingredients and cook until tender, but still crispy. About 5 more minutes. I cooked it enough were the pinenuts were toasty light brown and the piementos were curling shrinking in size.

These are just estimated measurements for I just created as I went along, but they are pretty close. I must add that you just can't have enough roasted red peppers or the pine nuts. They add such a great flavor.

We loved this recipe. I served it with Salmon grilled on a cedar plank and baked sweet potatoes. A glass of merlot completed our date night ;)

Turkey Meatballs with DEE licious sauce

2009-03-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

Turkey Meatballs with Quick And Spicy Tomato Sauce and Whole-Wheat Spaghetti

I love this recipe. The meatballs are so moist and the herbs add a wonderful flavor. You can smell the aroma in our home while cooking. Thanks to our fresh basil leaves and rosemary from our garden. xo to my hub for that ;)

Prep Time: 20 min Inactive Prep Time: hr min Cook Time: 30 min Level:

6 servings Ingredients

Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (28-ounce) can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, liquid included
1 teaspoon finely minced canned chipotle en adobo and sauce, or more to taste
2 teaspoons chopped oregano leaves
1 sprig fresh rosemary
Salt
1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves
Meatballs:
Cooking spray
1 pound ground turkey meat
1 slice fresh whole-wheat bread, crusts removed, pulsed into crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
1/2 cup finely grated carrot
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 large cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley leaves, plus more for garnish
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 box (16 ounces) whole-wheat spaghetti
Directions
Fill a large stockpot with water and bring to a boil for pasta.

Make Sauce:
In a 4-quart saucepan heat the oil over medium heat. Saute the onions until translucent, about 3 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Add tomato paste, tomatoes, chipotles, oregano, rosemary, and salt. Bring all the ingredients to a low boil, reduce heat and cook for approximately 15 minutes, until liquid has evaporated slightly. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. While sauce is cooking, make meatballs.

Meatballs:
Preheat the broiler. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Combine the turkey with all other ingredients in a large work bowl. Form into 2 1/2 -inch balls and place on a baking sheet. Broil for 10 minutes, or until browned and almost entirely cooked through.

Meanwhile, remove rosemary sprig from sauce and add fresh basil. Add the meatballs to the sauce, cover, and cook additional 10 minutes, or until sauce has slightly thickened and meatballs have absorbed some of the sauce. While the meatballs are cooking, cook the whole-wheat spaghetti according to package directions.

Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the sauce and meatballs, toss and heat through over medium heat. Divide evenly among 4 pasta bowls and garnish with parsley and 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan.

Round 2 changes: The second time I made these I added some water to the sauce. About 1/4 cup and a squirt of white wine. I just thought it needed a lil more juice. I think it's perfect now. Don't double up the chipolte peppers b/c they are HOT, but scrumptious. Make sure you use Fire Roasted Tomatoes

NOTE: to save on time DOUBLE up the meatball recipe make them during the weekend and freeze or cook the next day. I made one batch for Monday night's dinner and saved the other batch for another day. I will only have to make the sauce. Much easier for the life of a busy mama.

Oven Fried Chicken- from Ellie on Foodnetwork

2009-03-18T19:52:00.000-07:00

Corn cereal crumbs and crushed crackers create a delicious coating. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken. A light spray of olive oil before baking guarantees lightly crispy results.

Prep Time: 15 min Inactive Prep Time: hr min Cook Time: 45 min

Level: Easy Serves:6 to 8 servings

Ingredients
1/2 sleeve (about 20) whole-grain salted crackers, pulsed in a food processor until fine (about 1/2 cup)
2 1/2 cups corn cereal flakes, pulsed in a food processor to fine crumbs (about 1/2 cup)
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 egg whites
1 cup lowfat, plain yogurt
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
Olive oil cooking spray
4 medium sized skinless chicken breasts and 4 skinless chicken thighs, rinsed and patted dry (about 3 1/2 pounds chicken)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil.

Combine the crackers and corn cereal crumbs, sesame seeds, cayenne, and garlic powder in a shallow bowl. Reserve.

In a large bowl, combine egg whites, yogurt, Dijon mustard, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly with the yogurt mixture.

One at a time, dip the chicken pieces in the cracker mixture, packing crumbs onto chicken. Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil cooking spray.

Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until juices run clear when chicken is pierced with a knife.

I used whole grain saltine crackers and good ole Kellogs Corn Flakes. I didn't use a food processor just chopped it all up in the blender. :)
The kids loved it and Dad said "mmm" on the first bite.. it was so easy i think i will make it often.

Three top restaurants while traveling in Florida!

2009-03-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

While traveling our family often looks for NOT the regular "off the interstate restaurant". Yuck! It's often that you will pull over and just eat a quick grab because you are traveling. Overlooking, some fabulous finds in the state of Florida. If you plan ahead you can look forward to a deee licious meal while traveling.

Here's a list of 3 top favorites that Wilson's often visit.

The Manatee Cafe in St. Augustine is an incredible place to eat. Offering deeee licious vegetarian foods. Next time you are up that way look it up:http://www.manateecafe.com/

Going to the Millenium Mall in Orlando? Check out the Greens and Grille Restaurant. Oh my goodness. I love this place. Both David and I ate their last weekend twice in one day! All meals are created from scratch! Salads, soups, yummie sandwiches. My favorite is their Portabella sandwich and their Summer Sweets Salad. Ohh and of course their soups. I think I love it all. This is one restaurant that I would love to own. mmmmmm http://www.greensandgrille.com

Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel has Cosi's.... another fabulous place. I have too many favorites to list. I love it all. http://www.getcosi.com They are also in the Outlet mall in Estero, Fl. on the way to Miami. So, you know I must stop there! Make sure you pick up a handfull of their breakfast bar cookies to go. 5 is not enough.

www.getcosi.com

What's in my grocery cart?

2009-03-14T17:48:00.000-07:00

Fresh fruit vs. canned
Spring Mix vs. iceberg or romaine
All natural chicken breast in a can. No preservatives or additives. (sam's) For quick lunches.
Organic 2% milk and Rice Milk for the Kids.
Skim Milk and Rice Milk for Mom & Dad

24 grams of Protein Zero Carbs and only 116 Calories

2009-03-14T17:03:00.000-07:00

What could possibly be so high in protein and so low in carbs? Yellow fish tuna. Sushi!! Yes..ask your fish market to sell you sushi grade tuna. Take it home, slice it up and serve. Wah la your done! Now, don't tell me you don't like sushi because it's raw. Please give it a chance. It's such a clean food and there is nothing to this creation. I like to dip the slices of tuna in low sodium soy sauce and sprinkle some sesame seeds. Deeee licious.

Carmen's Yummy Salad

2009-03-14T13:43:00.000-07:00

This is THE SALAD! My friends and family love it when I make my Yummy Salad. It's got such a great variety of flavors and it's always a hit. You really don't have to have all the fruits, but they sure taste delcious. It's so yummy that I think that's how it got it's name. :)My kids will actually ask me to make it every week.

Why the dressing??? We often put too much dressing on our salads taking away from all the great flavors. A little balsamic drizzle with olive oil and that's all it needs. Forget all the creamy dressing high in fat. Go simple. Don't forget the fresh peppercorn. mmmmm..... Today I made it and just sprinkled fresh lemon juice and olive oil. MMmm again. Grill some chicken or fish and make it a complete meal. Enjoy
xo

Large bowl filled with 1/2 Spring Mix. & 1/2 Spinach

Med. Tomato cubed

1/2 avocado cubed

blueberries (handful or more)

strawberries ( handful or more)

Mandarin oranges that come in a glass container (veggie section at Publix or Walmart)

1/2 red onion diced (optional)

Cantaloupe (handful optional too)

Crushed Walnuts

Low fat Feta cheese

Dressing: Balsamic and Olive oil Sea Salt & Pepper to taste
Tip: Serve each serving and then add the dressing to taste. If you have leftovers keep it for the next day for lunch.

2 delicious recipes. That I just love.

2009-03-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Beets with Orange Vinagrette

Ingredients
6 fresh beets
2 tablespoons raspberry vinegar
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
3 tablespoons good olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup small-diced red onion (1 small onion optional)
2 large seedless oranges, zested
Segments 2 large seedless oranges
Directions
Bake beets at 350 for about 40 minutes. Peel and slice. Place the beets in a mixing bowl and add the raspberry vinegar, orange juice, olive oil, salt, pepper and red onions. Zest the oranges and then segment over a bowl to catch the juices. Add the orange zest, orange segments, and any juices and mix well. Taste for seasoning and serve cold or at room temperature

Blueberry Coffee Cake by ellie on foodnetwork.

My kids LOVE this recipe.

Ingredients
Cooking spray
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour or regular whole-wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup plain nonfat yogurt
1 cup fresh blueberries, or frozen and thawed
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an 8-inch square cake pan with cooking spray.

Whisk together the all-purpose and whole-wheat flours, the baking soda and salt. In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, cinnamon and walnuts. In a large bowl, beat the brown sugar, butter and oil until fluffy. If necessary, use the back of a spoon to press out any lumps in the brown sugar. Beat in the eggs, 1 at a time, beating until fully combined. Beat in the vanilla and yogurt.

Add the flour mixture in 2 batches, stirring until just combined.

Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the nut mixture over the batter and top with the blueberries, gently pressing them into the batter. Spoon the rest of the batter into the pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the remaining nut mixture over the cake, pressing gently. Bake until a wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, about 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool slightly and then unmold and allow to cool completely on a cooling rack. Cut the cake into 2-inch squares.

What's in my drink?

2009-03-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

Fresh water, sliced lemon wedges, and mint leaves.

Spring is in the air and it's a great time to plant some herbs. Wilson; my gardner planted 3 pots filled with gorgeous herbs. Mint, Cilantro, Parsley, Basil, and Rosemary. The mint has gone crazy...so what better use than to fancy up your water. I keep lemon wedges and fresh cut mint in two separate ziploc bags in the fridge. A quick way to fancy up your h2o. ;)

What did I do with the leftover Stuffed Turkeys?

2009-03-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

White Egg Omelet stuffed a la HURRY!

1/4 cup Egg Whites
Crumbled up Stuffed turkey from previous recipe
2 small Avocado slices cubed
1 tbs. piementos (leftover from the jar used for the stuffed turkey)
low fat shredded mozarella cheese
s/p
olive oil

Oil skillet to medium heat. Add egg white and cook until it no longer is transulucent looking. Add remainder ingredients and cook until cheese has melted. Flip over and brown on both sides. Sprinkle more cheese. Splash with a lil hot sauce. yum!

Doesn't Vanilla Cake sound delicous? Well, of course it does and that's exactly what it taste like!

2009-03-12T06:04:00.000-07:00

I am always searching for the most tasteful protein powder I could possibly find. Iron Tek must be on my top 3 list. It's so yummmmmm...I have tons of recipes if u gals want more. Just let me know. Here's a top favorite at our house from The Eat Clean Diet Cookbook by Tosca Reno.

Oatmeal Protein Smoothie
1/4 c. uncooked oatmeal
1 tbsp. peanut butter
1 scoop protein powder, vanilla best. ( i use iron tek "vanillacake" from chucks)
1 tbs. honey
1 tbs flax seed
1 cup milk. soy /cow whatever I use vanilla light soy milk
1/2 tsp cinnamon
ice

enjoy ;)

3 easy meals! All super yummy

2009-03-12T05:41:00.001-07:00

Okay ladies I have been neglecting this blog way too long and it's time to post some easy fast recipes. I create a menu every weekend for the following week. Then the Family will either LOVE IT OR NOT. LOL These 3 recipes were absolutely delicious and super easy. I served the shrimp with rice. The terayaki with some baked sweet potato fries and the Turkey burgers with a salad. Please let me know if you tried any of them.

Baked Shrimp with Tomatoes & Feta SO yum and SO easy!!

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
2 (14.5-ounce) cans of no-salt-added diced tomatoes, with their juices
1/4 cup finely minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 tablespoon finely minced fresh dill
1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 3 ounces)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Heat the oil in an oven proof skillet over a medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 5 minutes, until the tomato juices thicken.

Remove from the heat. Stir in the parsley, dill, and shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the feta over the top. Bake until the shrimp are cooked through and cheese melts, about 12 minutes

Stuffed Turkey Burgers
Ingredients
1 1/4 pounds lean ground turkey breast
1/2 cup chopped roasted red peppers
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/4 teaspoons salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Divide turkey into 4 equal sized rounds. Make 2 equal sized patties out of each round so you have 8 patties total. Sprinkle 4 of the patties with 2 tablespoons red peppers and cheese, and top with remaining patties, working the turkey around the edges to seal burgers closed. Season with salt and a few grinds of pepper. Grill or broil until cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.

Modifications: I seasoned with kosher salt / ground pepper and a lil adobo before mixing the meat. Cooked about 5 minutes on hot grill on each side. Served with Beefsteak Tomatoe slices and a mixture of boar's head mustard and light mayo. SO good. enjoy.
Let me know if u make them.

Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

6 pieces; 1 piece per serving
Ingredients
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons dry sherry
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 garlic cloves, crushed with a garlic press or minced
1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 pounds skinless chicken thighs
2 teaspoons sesame seeds
Directions
Combine the soy sauce, sugar, sherry, vinegar, garlic, ginger and red pepper flakes and stir until the sugar dissolves. Transfer to a resealable plastic bag and add the chicken. Seal the bag and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator, turning once, for 1 hour. The chicken can be marinated for up to 4 hours.
Heat the broiler to high. Arrange the chicken on a broiler pan skin side down and broil until brown and crispy, 8 to 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and broil until almost cooked through, about 8 minutes longer. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and cook until the seeds turn golden brown and the chicken is done, 1 to 2 minutes longer.

Thanksgiving recipes:

2008-11-25T09:37:00.000-08:00

The green pantry is a blog for "healthy" recipes, but for the Holidays I like to break the rules. :)

Velvety Pumpkin Bisque
( this is a tradional recipe at my home every holiday. Which the boys thought it wasn't a very manly option until they tasted one bite and now I have to make it every year.) Next year, I am going to work on a lowfat version ;)

2 Tbs. Butter
1 Tbs.minced green onion

1 16 ounce can of pumpkin
1 cup water
2 tbs. brown sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp white pepper
1/8 tsp. cinnamon
2 chicken flavor bouillon cubes
2 cups half/half
1 lemon thinly sliced to garnish on top
Minced parsley to garnish.

In a 2 qt. saucepan over medium heat, place butter and onions. Cook until tender stirring occasionally. Stir in next 7 ingredients blending and mixing slowly. Bring to a boil. Lower heat to a simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.

Add half/half heat through, stirring constantly.

Garnish with lemon rings and parsley.

Sweet Potato Flan Prep Time: 20 min Inactive Prep Time: 6 min Cook Time: 2 hr 0 min Level:
Intermediate Serves:
10 to 12 servings For the caramel: ( you can also buy already store bought flan and save yourself some trouble ;)
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup water

For the flan:
1 large sweet potatoes (about 1 pound), baked until tender then peeled
2 cups half-and-half
6 tablespoons granulated sugar
7 ounces sweetened condensed milk
2/3 cup water
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons maple syrup
5 large eggs
2 egg yolks
Chocolate Spider's Web, recipe follows

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.
Prepare the caramel: In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over low heat, without stirring, until the syrup turns a medium amber, painting the sides of the pan with a wet pastry brush as needed, about 5 minutes. Pour into one large (10-cup) souffle dish or round casserole, and tilt to evenly coat the bottom and slightly up the sides. Set aside.

Prepare the custard: In the bowl of a food processor, process the potatoes. With the machine running, add 1 cup of the half-and-half, and process until smooth.

In a large bowl, combine the sugar, the remaining 1-cup of half-and-half, the condensed milk, 2/3 cup of water, the vanilla extract, and maple syrup, and mix well.

In another large bowl, beat the eggs and egg yolks until frothy. Strain the eggs into the wet ingredients and mix well. Add the sweet potato mixture, whisk well, then transfer to the prepared pan. Place the dish in a large baking pan and add enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dish. Bake for 2 hours, or until the custard is mostly set but the center is still slightly wobbly. Remove from the oven and transfer to a rack to cool.
Refrigerate until very cold, at least 6 hours, or overnight. To unmold, run a thin knife around the sides of the custard and invert onto a serving dish. Cut into wedges and serve as desired.

my purple inspiration...

2008-10-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, I admit it i haven't been cooking much lately. We've been fightning a crazy schedule lately and I have been missing "my green pantry". However, I am still making my yummy smoothies. I placed the shake down and look were it landed. Next to LIFE IS GOOD. I couldn't resist, but to capture a quick pix.

Healthy School Snacks- What should kids take to school?

2008-09-29T17:47:00.000-07:00

It cracks me up when my kids even try to question me why they are not allowed to take chips, fruit rollups,etc.. as a morning snack for school. Ahh, I'm looking for brain foods at this point in their day. The sad reality is that I am sure a large percentage of children might be packing these "ready to go" foods. You know the ones loaded with preservatives, coloring, fats, etc.... Have you ever seen the ingredients in a "twinky" or "cheetos"? It's all loaded with junk. My rule is: no hydrogenated oils, High fructose syrup, no perservatives, and no artificial colors or preservatives. (yes, we do break the rule occasionally, but not often) It's not that hard to "think out of the box" and give your little one a healthy alternative to those "ready to go" snacks. You might say " Johnnie, won't eat it", but my thinking is if Johnnie is hungry and he has nothing else he might just start. Here are some ideas and tips for morning snacks at school.

Snack Tips:

Have your child plan snacks with you and let them make some "healthy" choices with you. Go shopping together. If they plan with you they will be more interested in the food and look forward to their new creations.

Set aside a "snack section" in the refrigerator for the week with small Ziploc bags loaded with their morning snacks. For example: a snack size Ziploc with grapes. It's easier in the morning if it is ready.

Let them know you will be shopping for new ideas for morning snacks and they can't be high in sugar, salt or fat.

Start looking at other name brands that you typically wouldn't purchase. Such as the new organic, healthy alternatives. You be surprised how many Publix and Walmart carry.

Offer a surprise snack once a week and add a "love note". My kids love notes in their boxes.

Snack Ideas

Fruit: My kids love an apple as a snack or a banana. I have even send the kids with kiwi's and a plastic knife to peel it. A small Ziploc loaded with grapes. Keep them in the refrigerator over night and they will still be cool during snack time. Orange slices in a bag.

Dried Fruits: Here's a great link http://www.stretchislandfruit.com/

Edamame- You can buy frozen edamame at Whole Foods or in the freezer section at Publix,Walmart, and Target

Peanut Butter Tortillas: Spread some crunchy or smooth peanut butter on a tortilla,roll it tight and wrap with saran wrap. If you wish add some tiny pieces of bananas or sunflower seeds. Add a little bit of honey too.

Muffins or homemade breads. Freeze them and take them out just for snacks.

Grapes: Freeze them too

String Cheese

Clif Z Bar: These are great healthy bars. I mentioned them a couple of blogs ago for adults. Check out their organic Z bar.

Some Yummy Yogurt: Have your child go to the grocery store with you and pick out his favorite flavors. Keep it cool with a cold pack.

Granola Mixes: Mix some granola,dried fruits and some nuts. Sneak in a couple of chocolate chips for an extra treat. My kiddos love making these. I do allow some marshmallows, and some m&m's, but those come in very small portions. Make enough for about 4 days. Pre pack them in snack size bags and all you have to do is grab and go.

Last tip: Kids are usually hungry and thirsty after school. Before you take off to pick them up pack a water and a healthy snack that is car friendly and you will get lots of brownie points for this. The kids love it when I arrive with a homemade shake or a yogurt. By the time we arrive at home we are less cranky and a lot happier.

Cheese lover snack

2008-09-27T11:41:00.000-07:00

My niece Gina came over and loved this treat.

All Natural Rosemary Crisbread, Uniekaas Reserve Cheese, and Organic Adriatic Fig Spread.

The Rosemary Crispbread is a light, crunchy cracker that is made to perfection by using all natural ingredients and no oils. They are very flavorful, but smooth on the palette. I must say this is one of the simplest forms of crackers I have ever had. They are paper thin. Combined with the cheese and spread I am in Food Heaven.

Now for the Cheese. Uniekaas Reserve Cheese is my addiction in life. I mean it... this is lovely. It's a gouda cheese that is aged over 18 months. It's full bodied and strong. It has a little crunch to it too.

The FIG! Okay, I will admit I had never tasted fig spread prior to my friend; Felicia . Who introduced me to it during our ski trip., scrumptious addiction. Don't laugh I truly enjoy what I call "simple palette foods" and this is on the top of my list. I wasn't able to find a picture on line and I am to lazy to stop eating to take a picture. Maybe in a few days.

You can find all three of these simple palette foods at a whole food stores. I recently found the crackers at Publix. I literally went into shock. Ohh, and it's worth driving to an extra store a month to get all this.

Hope you enjoy and don't forget to have a glass of red wine along with my Cheese lover snack.

Do you love sweet and salty? Mojo Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars

2008-09-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

What's on my desk right now? A dasani water, a mojo bar, and some figs. They love to hang out with me. lol This is one of those bars that you just have to have daily to hold you over for that "chicken" meal. lol What's on your desk?? tell me what you like to snack

Grown in California; Figs

2008-09-24T18:23:00.000-07:00

Tired of apples and bananas? Try figs. Another amazing fruit that is incredibly good for you and it's delicious. They have more calcium than bananas, high in iron,magnesium and fiber. Figs are usually found in the organic section at the grocery store. Enjoy... ohh, one more thing. There are several varieties out there. Black Mission my top fav.

Acai-(ah-sigh-ee) The fruit Grown in the Amazon Rainforest

2008-09-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of this amazing fruit? Truly a "Gift from Mother Nature". A fruit that has a rich, berry-cocoa flavor that makes it taste amazing, and its packed with more antioxidants than blueberries or pomegranates, plus loads of healthy Omega fats, protein and dietary fiber. All that in one fruit? I ask....I'm loving it.

Some great facts:
It has similiar amounts of protein as a whole egg (wow)
More antioxidants than blueberries,strawberries,and cherries. Almost 3x's more than blueberries!
Has up to 30 times the amount of anthocyanins that red wine has. Anthocyanins reportedly have anti-inflammatory qualities, so the Acai berry could potentially be helpful for those with arthritis or inflammation of the joints.
The berry has lots of vitamin E and other vitamins, too.
Tons of fiber

Here's some other benefits I found

Anti-aging (i'm in ), heart health, improved sleep, increased energy, and research shows that it may even have cancer destroying properties! Other health benefits include improved mental focus, improved digestion, improved blood circulation, and stronger bones and muscles.

Ok..I'm hoked! My friend Felicia introduced me to this great fruit. She puts it in her smoothie every morning. It wasn't till just recently that I read up on the benefits and now I desire to really make it part of my daily diet.

You can find it at health food stores in tons of products. I buy it in the frozen smoothie packs and add them to the shakes we make.

Enjoy...

All Natural Cleaning Products.

2008-09-15T05:55:00.001-07:00

Have you ever thought about the fumes and harsh chemicals in cleaning products? Here's a line of products that Publix and most grocery stores carry. All plant and mineral-based ingredients, cuts through grease, grime and dirt with the power you'd expect from Clorox or other strong products.
Go check out cleaning products ingredients today. Turn your closet into a GREEN UTILITY CLOSET!

Check them out. http://www.greenworkscleaners.com

Panko covered Chicken Fingers. So, what is Panko?

2008-09-14T16:30:00.000-07:00

Kids love chicken fingers, but if you are like me I'm not too crazy about them. I never buy the frozen ones. You know... the ones loaded with fat, preservatives, coloring and a whole lotta of air and fluff. No meat... Since the kids begged me this weekend to buy "tyson" frozen nuggets and I went into shock when I read the label I said NO WAY. I'll make you some myself.

Here's a yummy recipe using panko's in leau of bread crumbs. Panko's are japanese bread crumbs. They offer a much crispier taste than traditional bread crumbs. You can find them in the "bread crumb" section at the grocery store.

Another lunch box tip: Not another boring sandwich please....make some extras and send the kids to school with some chicken fingers. Add a little sauce on the side and BANG! You got a winner lunch.

Panko Chicken Fingers (source:food network)
1 large egg
1/3 cup buttermilk
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite size pieces
1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
Ranch, honey mustard or barbecue sauce for dipping, optional
Carrot, cucumber and or celery sticks, optional

Whisk the egg and buttermilk in a medium bowl. Soak chicken pieces in egg mixture while you gather remaining ingredients. Meanwhile, in another shallow bowl combine panko with paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper, to taste. Set a rack on a cookie sheet lined with paper towels.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Lift chicken from buttermilk, letting excess liquid drain back into the bowl, then dip into panko and turn to coat on all sides.
Carefully place chicken in oil and cook until they are golden and crispy and cooked through, about for 5 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to the rack to cool. Place in sealed container. Pack in a lunch box with their favorite veggies and ranch, honey mustard or barbecue sauce for dipping.

Good Morning Shakes-Loaded with Vitamins

2008-09-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

The kids love this shake. It's a great meal replacement or mid day snack. Not to mention loaded with vitamins! The funny thing is that the kids friends come over and request them. I always love that kinda compliment.:)

For myself: If I want less calories I use half water and half soy milk. Use a full
scoop for adults :)

Vanilla Shake

1/2 Scoop of Spiru-Tein Vanilla Or any other flavor
1 Cup of Soy Milk- my fav. West Soy Vanilla Plus
1/2 to a whole banana
1 or 2 tablespoons of Peanut Butter (Naturally More Peanut Butter)
Several Ice Cubes

Place and Blender and blend away

For a lil extra help: add some flax seeds

All these products can be found at Publix or Walmart
Spiru-Tein can be purchased at Chuck's Health Foods or any GNC

Chicken Cilantro Soup

2008-09-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

This is a quick easy meal and it's delicious. My son loved it. Even his lil buddy had some. I added several more pieces of chicken so I can plan ahead for a chicken salad recipe for the kid's lunches for this week. How's that for planning ahead. Sneaking in...using up din din time to make ahead "lunch meal plans". Love that! Just sneak out that chicken when you take it the other's one out and shred them up for that salad. ohhh..

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe courtesy Danny Boome

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 jalapenos, finely diced (use only one for kiddos)
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 (14.5-ounce) can fire roasted diced tomatoes (in the Can area. sometimes in health foods)
1 (14.5-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
3 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 limes, juiced, plus wedges for garnish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 (8-inch) flour tortilla, grilled, cut into thin strips
1 avocado, pitted, sliced
1 cup shredded Monterrey cheese

In a large saucepan heat the vegetable oil. Add the onions and cook for 2 minutes. Once the onions have softened add the garlic and jalepenos and cook for another minute. Pour the chicken broth, tomatoes and beans into the pot and bring to a boil. Once at a boil lower heat to simmer and add your chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes. Once chicken is cooked remove from pot. When cool enough to handle shred it and set it aside. Add lime juice and fresh cilantro to the pot. In a serving bowl add a mound of shredded chicken. Ladle soup over chicken and top with a lime wedge, grilled tortilla strips, avocado slices and cheese.

Brownie points for mom- Lunch Box Notes

2008-09-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Do you ever want to write your kid a cute note in their lunch box? Or have some already printed? Here is a great link to have some printed out or ideas to make your own.
This should bring a smile home. Isn't that what we all want? happy kiddos.

Link:http://www.youthonline.ca/stationery/lunchboxnotes/index.shtml