5.05.2011

Broccoli and Cheese Casserole recipe.

Ingredients
3 cups water
1 (10 ounce) package yellow rice
1 (16 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
1 (16 ounce) jar process cheese sauce

Directions
In a saucepan bring water to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
While the rice is cooking, place frozen broccoli in large skillet. Heat stove to low-medium and defrost broccoli When the broccoli is 90% defrosted add processed cheese sauce to the broccoli and let melt. When rice has completed cooking add broccoli-cheese mixture and rice to 9x13 baking dish and mix well.
Place casserole in the preheated 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) oven for 10 minutes; or until heated through.

Absolutely the Best Nacho Dip Ever recipe.

Ingredients
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup cocktail sauce
1 cup mild salsa
3/4 cup diced green onion
3/4 cup diced red bell pepper
3/4 cup diced green bell pepper
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded lettuce
1 cucumber, thinly sliced

Directions
In a blender or food processor, thoroughly mix cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise. Spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of a medium serving dish.
In individual layers, top the mixture with cocktail sauce, mild salsa, diced green onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, shredded Cheddar cheese and shredded lettuce.
Arrange cucumber slices around the edge of the serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator at least 2 hours before serving.

Better Spanish Rice recipe.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 onion, chopped
1 1/4 cups uncooked instant rice
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup chicken broth

Directions
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and cook and stir the chopped onion until browned, about 8 minutes.
Stir in the rice, tomatoes, cilantro, and chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.

Brussels Sprouts With Franks recipe.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
8 frankfurters, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup spicy vegetable juice cocktail
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 large tomato, chopped
3 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion; cook and stir until tender. Throw in the sliced frankfurters; continue to cook and stir until slightly browned. Stir in the garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Pour in the vegetable juice cocktail and Worcestershire sauce and add tomato, Brussels sprouts and pepper. Stir to blend, then cover and simmer over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes or until sprouts are tender.

Big-Batch Beef Sauce recipe.

Ingredients
4 pounds ground beef
4 medium onions, chopped
5 celery ribs, sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 (28 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
2 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste
2 (4.5 ounce) jars sliced mushrooms, drained (optional)
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1 tablespoon salt
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions
In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook beef, onions, celery and garlic until meat is no longer pink and vegetables are tender; drain. Stir in the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 1 to 1-1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. Cool. Transfer to freezer bags or containers, about 2 cups in each. May be frozen for up to 3 months.

All-Natural Chicken Pot Pie recipe.

Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup vegetable shortening (such as Crisco�), frozen and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 cup butter, frozen and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
6 tablespoons ice-cold water, or more as needed
3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
2 carrots, diced
1 cup chopped celery
3 potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
2 cups frozen petite peas
1/2 large onion, diced, divided
1 cup water
1 tablespoon butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons chicken soup base
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh sage
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme

Directions
Preheat an oven to 365 degrees F (185 degrees C). Lightly oil a 9-inch square casserole dish.
Sift the 3 cups flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg together into a large mixing bowl. Cut the vegetable shortening and cold butter into the flour mixture with a knife or pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some chunks the size of peas. Add the ice water a tablespoon at a time, tossing with a fork, until the flour mixture is moistened. Work the dough as little as possible; this is the key to a super light and flaky crust. After half the water has been incorporated, watch closely, as mixture will come together suddenly. Once it begins to stick together, gather into a ball, divide into halves, and roll each ball out to 1/4-inch thickness, adding flour as necessary to prevent sticking. Press one of the dough portions into the prepared casserole dish, covering bottom and sides completely.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts in the hot skillet until evenly browned on both sides; cut into small cubes and set aside in a large mixing bowl. Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium-low. Cook the carrots, celery, potatoes, peas, and about half the diced onion in the drippings from the chicken until the carrots soften; add to the bowl with the chicken.
Increase the heat to medium. Add the water to the skillet and bring to a boil while scraping the browned bits of food off of the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon; pour into a cup and set aside.
Melt the butter in the skillet. Cook and stir the remaining onion and the garlic in the melted butter until the onions begin to brown, 5 to 8 minutes. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons flour over the onion mixture and stir to evenly coat. Pour the reserved liquid over the onion mixture. Stir the chicken base, salt, pepper, sage, and thyme into the mixture. Cook and stir until the mixture has reduced into a thick gravy; pour over the chicken mixture in the mixing bowl. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
Pour the mixture over the crust in the casserole dish. Top with the remaining portion of dough and pinch the edges together to seal the edges. Cut a few slits into the top to vent.
Bake in the preheated oven until the crust is golden brown and the gravy bubbles through the slits, about 1 hour. Allow to cool slightly before serving, 10 to 15 minutes.

Best Marinara recipe.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 1/2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
salt and pepper to taste

Directions
Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Stir in onion, garlic and celery and cook until soft. Pour in tomatoes and tomato paste, stir, reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes. Stir in parsley, basil, oregano, salt and pepper; simmer 15 minutes, uncovered. Serve.

Blueberry Raspberry Pie recipe.

Ingredients
1 Pastry for double-crust pie (9 inches)
1 egg white
2 tablespoons water, divided
17 tablespoons sugar, divided
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 cups fresh blueberries
1 cup fresh raspberries

Directions
Line a 9-in. pie plate with bottom pastry; trim pastry even with edge of plate. Beat the egg white and 1 tablespoon water; brush over crust. Set aside.
In a bowl, combine 1 cup sugar, cornstarch, lemon peel, vanilla and cinnamon. Gently stir in the berries. Pour into the crust.
Roll out the remaining pastry to fit top of pie; place over the filling. Trim, seal and flute edges. Cut slits in top. Brush with remaining water; sprinkle with remaining sugar.
Bake at 400 degrees F for 40-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool on a wire rack. Store in the refrigerator.

Artichoke Dip I recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 (6.5 ounce) jars marinated artichoke hearts, drained
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the mayonnaise, Parmesan, artichoke, mozzarella and garlic powder. Transfer the mixture to an 8x8 inch baking dish.
Bake 30 minutes, or until the surface is lightly browned and bubbly.
Sprinkle with paprika and serve warm.

Blender Chocolate Mousse recipe.

Ingredients
1 (12 ounce) package semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup white sugar
1 cup hot milk (160 degrees F/71 degrees C)
3 tablespoons brandy

Directions
In an electric blender container, combine chocolate chips, sugar and eggs. Blend. Add hot milk and brandy. Blend until smooth. Pour into 8 demitasse cups or other small serving cups and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

A-Maize-ing Corn Chowder recipe.

Ingredients
6 slices bacon
1 onion, chopped
2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup water
2 cups milk
2 (14.75 ounce) cans cream-style corn
1 (15.25 ounce) can whole kernel corn
1/2 teaspoon salt
ground black pepper to taste

Directions
Fry bacon in a Dutch oven until crisp; remove bacon, reserving 2 tablespoons drippings. Crumble bacon and set aside.
Saute onion in reserved drippings until tender; add potatoes and water. Cover and simmer 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Stir in milk, corn, salt, and pepper to taste; continue to cook, stirring frequently, until heated through. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon to serve.

Asparagus Soup I recipe.

Ingredients
4 large potatoes, peeled
2 cubes chicken bouillon
2 (10 ounce) cans asparagus
1 tablespoon fennel seed
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fennel greens for garnish

Directions
Boil and mash potatoes. Puree in a blender, and set aside.
In large pot, dissolve bouillon in water following the directions on the package.
Add asparagus spears, and stir until spears are dissolved. Stir in the potatoes. Season with fennel seeds and pepper to taste. Garnish with fennel greenery if desired. Serve hot.

Balsamic Marinated Chicken Breasts recipe.

Ingredients
3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon dried minced onion
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon dried minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon crushed dried rosemary
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/8 teaspoon dried oregano
4 (6 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

Directions
Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, water, onion, red pepper flakes, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, rosemary, parsley, chili powder, and oregano in a bowl, and pour into a resealable plastic bag. Add the chicken breasts, coat with the marinade, squeeze out excess air, and seal the bag. Marinate in the refrigerator 30 minutes to overnight.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, or lightly grease a broiler pan. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, and shake off excess. Discard the remaining marinade, and place the chicken breasts onto the baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven until the chicken breasts are golden brown, and no longer pink in the center, about 40 minutes.

Buried Cherry Cookies recipe.

Ingredients
1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 (1 ounce) squares bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk

Directions
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Drain the cherries and reserve about 2 tablespoons of the juice. Cut the cherries in half if large, and set aside.
Beat the softened butter, sugar, and baking powder with an electric mixer until thoroughly creamed and fluffy, about 1 minute. Beat in the egg and almond extract, then add the flour gradually, and beat just until blended. Pinch off pieces of dough, roll into 1-inch balls, place the balls on an ungreased baking sheet, and press your thumb in the center of each cookie to make a dent. Place a cherry or cherry half in the indentation of each cookie.
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate with the condensed milk, and stir until smooth. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of reserved cherry juice to the mixture, or as needed, to thin the frosting; frosting will be thick. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of frosting over each cherry, covering the cherry completely.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven until firm and slightly browned, about 12 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheet for about 1 minute before removing, then move to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Black Bean Quesadillas recipe.

Ingredients
2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 2/3 cups salsa, divided
10 (8 inch) flour tortillas
2 cups shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese
1/3 cup sour cream

Directions
In a bowl, mash the beans; add 1 cup salsa. Place five tortillas on ungreased baking sheets; spread with bean mixture. Sprinkle with cheese; top with the remaining tortillas.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 15-18 minutes or until crisp and heated through. Cut into wedges. Serve with sour cream and remaining salsa.

Bourbon Pecan Chicken recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/4 cup clarified butter, melted
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
2 2/3 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
3/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
1/2 cup sliced green onions

Directions
Stir together the pecans, bread crumbs, and 2 tablespoons of clarified butter. Spread the mixture out on a plate. Press the chicken breasts into the mixture to coat on both sides. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of clarified butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the coated chicken breasts in the pan, and fry on both sides until nicely browned and chicken meat is cooked through, about 10 minutes per side.
In a small saucepan, whisk together the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, bourbon, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, then remove from the burner, and whisk in the 3/4 cup of unsalted butter one piece at a time. Do not return to the heat.
Arrange the chicken breasts on a large serving plate. Pour the sauce over the chicken, and sprinkle with green onion.

Bacon Cheeseburger Rice recipe.

Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 3/4 cups water
2/3 cup barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon prepared mustard
2 teaspoons dried minced onion
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 cups uncooked instant rice
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/3 cup chopped dill pickle
5 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

Directions
In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the beef until no longer pink; drain. Add water, barbecue sauce, mustard, onion and pepper. Bring to a boil; stir in the rice. Sprinkle with cheese. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with pickles and bacon.

Brown Rice and Black Bean Salad recipe.

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups uncooked brown rice
3 cups water
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (14.5 ounce) can collard greens, drained
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can green peas, rinsed and drained
1 (15.25 ounce) can corn kernels, drained
1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
1 (4 ounce) can sliced black olives
1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style tomatoes, undrained and chopped
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions
Bring the brown rice, water, olive oil, and 1//2 teaspoon salt to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, 45 to 50 minutes. Scrape into a mixing bowl, fluff with a fork, and refrigerate to room temperature.
Stir the collard greens, black beans, green peas, corn, green chiles, olives, and tomatoes into the cooled rice until evenly mixed. Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

Beef and Noodle Casserole recipe.

Ingredients
6 ounces egg noodles
1 pound ground beef
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed tomato soup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 pound shredded Cheddar cheese
1/4 cup dry sherry
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Cook the noodles according to package directions.
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat. Stir in the tomato soup, Worcestershire sauce and garlic, bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and let simmer.
When noodles are done, stir them and the cheese into the simmering sauce until cheese is melted. Stir the sherry into the sauce and stir for 1 minute, then place in a 2 quart casserole dish and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese to taste.
Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Brown Jug Soup recipe.

Ingredients
4 cubes chicken bouillon
6 cups water
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion
3 cups peeled and cubed potatoes
1 (10 ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
1 pound processed cheese, cubed

Directions
In a large soup pot, dissolve chicken bouillon cubes in 6 cups of water.
Add all the vegetables, fresh and frozen, to the pot. Simmer for 30 minutes.
Stir in cream of chicken soup. Add cheese, and mix until melted. Serve.

Blackjack Brisket recipe.

Ingredients
10 pounds untrimmed beef brisket
1 (12 fluid ounce) can beer (optional)
1 large onion, quartered
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon pepper
2 (18 ounce) bottles hickory smoke flavored barbeque sauce
1 cup blackstrap molasses
2 tablespoons liquid smoke flavoring

Directions
Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C).
Place brisket in a large roasting pan (disposable aluminum foil pan is fine). Pour beer over the meat, and place onion sections on top. Season with garlic, salt and pepper. Combine the barbeque sauce, molasses and liquid smoke; pour over the roast. Cover pan with aluminum foil.
Place pan on the center rack of the preheated oven, and bake for 6 to 8 hours, or until beef is fork tender. Remove from the oven and let stand for about 10 minutes before slicing across the grain into 1/8 inch slices.

Applesauce Cake IV recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup raisins, coarsely chopped
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup unsweetened applesauce

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9 inch square pan. In a medium bowl, combine raisins and flour. Add cinnamon, cloves and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Dissolve baking soda into applesauce and mix into creamed butter. Add flour mixture. Mix until smooth.
Pour batter into a 9 inch square pan. Bake at 350 degrees F ( 175 degrees C) for 40 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean.

Bearnaise Sauce recipe.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons dried tarragon
3/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons minced shallots
3 egg yolks
1/4 cup hot water
1/2 lemon, juiced
1 pinch salt
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1 cup butter, melted

Directions
In a heavy skillet, saute tarragon, red wine vinegar, and diced shallot over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the mixture becomes paste-like. Remove from heat.
Combine egg yolks, 1/8 cup hot water, lemon juice, salt and pepper in the top of a double boiler set over simmering water. Cook and stir until the mixture reaches the consistency of mayonnaise. Remove the mixture from heat. Add the melted butter slowly, stirring continuously. If the mixture becomes too thick, thin with the remaining 1/8 cup of hot water. Add the tarragon, wine, vinegar, and shallot mixture and blend well.

Antipasto Salad II recipe.

Ingredients
8 ounces Genoa salami, cut into bite-size pieces
8 ounces sopressata or other hard salami, cut into bite-size pieces
8 ounces sharp provolone cheese, cut into bite-size pieces
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into bite-size pieces
2 large tomatoes, cut into bite-size pieces
1 (14 ounce) can artichokes, drained and cut into bite-size pieces
1/2 (12 ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained and sliced
1/2 cup pitted and coarsely chopped Kalamata olives
1/4 cup pitted and chopped green olives
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup shredded fresh basil leaves

Directions
Combine the Genoa and sopressata salami, provolone, mozzarella, tomatoes, and artichokes in a bowl. Slice the roasted red peppers and add them to the bowl, along with about 3 tablespoons of their juice.
Mix in the chopped olives. Drizzle olive oil over the entire dish, followed by the red wine vinegar and black pepper. Salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until serving.
Tear the fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces and add them to the salad just before serving. Mix thoroughly and serve.

Apple Hermits recipe.

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup softened butter
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup chopped apples
1 cup raisins
2/3 cup confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon milk

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy. Mix in sugar and egg. Stir in flour mixture, and mix thoroughly. Fold in nuts, apples, and raisins.
Drop by rounded teaspoon onto prepared cookie sheets about 1 1/2 inches apart. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Cool on wire rack.
In a small bowl, mix confectioners' sugar with milk to make a thin glaze. Drizzle over cooled cookies.

Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken recipe.

Ingredients
2 (6 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup finely chopped fresh broccoli
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
Hot cooked rice

Directions
Flatten chicken to 1/4-in. thickness. Combine poultry seasoning, pepper, curry powder, garlic powder and salt; sprinkle over chicken. Combine broccoli and cheese; place half in the center of each chicken breast. Fold long sides over filling; fold ends up and secure with a toothpick.
Place, seam side down, in an 8-in. square baking pan. Add broth. Cover pan loosely with foil. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes. Remove foil; baste the chicken with pan juices. Bake, uncovered, 10 minutes longer or until meat juices run clear. Remove toothpicks before serving. Thicken pan juices for gravy if desired. Serve with rice if desired.

Banana Spice Cookies recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup mashed ripe bananas
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup raisins

Directions
In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and brown sugar. Add eggs and bananas; mix well. Combine dry ingredients; add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in nuts and raisins. Chill (dough will be very soft).
Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees F for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Bacon and Blue Brussels Sprouts recipe.

Ingredients
4 slices bacon
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup water
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed, halved lengthwise, and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, or to taste

Directions
Place the bacon in a large, deep skillet, and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Remove the bacon, but leave the drippings; blot the bacon slices on a paper towel-lined plate. Crumble when cool.
Stir the onion and salt into the hot fat over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes. Pour in the water and Dijon mustard. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until the water comes to a boil. Scrape the pan to dissolve the brown bits in the water. Add the Brussels sprouts and vinegar. Cook, stirring often, until the Brussels sprouts are tender, 4 to 6 minutes. Toss with bacon and Gorgonzola cheese crumbles to serve.

Beef Sirloin Kabobs with Roasted Red Pepper Dipping Sauce recipe.

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds boneless beef top sirloin steak, cut 1 inch thick
2 teaspoons coarse grind black pepper
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon sweet paprika
2 cloves garlic, minced
Dipping Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 (7 ounce) jars roasted red peppers, rinsed, drained, finely chopped
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves, crushed
1 cup ready-to-serve beef broth
2 teaspoons cornstarch

Directions
Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add onion and 3 cloves garlic; cook and stir 2 to 3 minutes or until onion is tender.
Add red peppers, wine, tomato paste and thyme, stirring until tomato paste is blended. Combine broth and cornstarch in small bowl, mixing until smooth. Stir into pepper mixture; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 10 to 12 minutes or until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. Keep warm.
Meanwhile cut beef steak into 1-1/4 x 1-1/4 x 1-inch pieces. Combine pepper, salt, paprika and 2 cloves minced garlic in large bowl. Add beef; toss to coat. Thread beef pieces evenly onto six 12-inch metal skewers, leaving small space between pieces.
Place kabobs on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, about 7 to 9 minutes for medium rare (145 degrees F) to medium (160 degrees F) doneness, turning once. Serve with dipping sauce.

Apple Muffins recipe.

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup white sugar
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup apple juice
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup apples - peeled, cored and finely diced

Directions
Heat oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C). Grease bottoms only of 12 muffin cups or line with baking cups.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt; mix well. In a small bowl, combine apple juice, oil, and egg; blend well. Add dry ingredients all at once; stir just until dry ingredients are moistened (batter will be lumpy.) Stir in chopped apples.
Fill cups 2/3 full. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 1 minute before removing from pan. Serve warm.

Andalusian Gazpacho recipe.

Ingredients
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
5 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tomatoes, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 1/2 cups navy beans, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 (46 fluid ounce) can tomato juice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
1 tablespoon minced fresh basil
1/2 tablespoon minced fresh oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions
In a 4-quart serving bowl or soup tureen, combine cucumber, bell pepper, green onion, garlic, tomatoes, celery, navy beans, olive oil, vinegar and tomato juice Season with cumin, parsley, basil, oregano and salt. Adjust spices and seasonings to taste. Chill in refrigerator at least 4 hours before serving cold.

Blackberry Jam Cake III recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 cup buttermilk
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon ground allspice
1 tablespoon ground cloves
1 cup seedless blackberry jam

Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease and flour 3 (9 inch) pans. Mix together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice and cloves. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Beat in the flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk. Stir in the blackberry jam. Pour batter into prepared pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.

Banana Cake IV recipe.

Ingredients
1 1/8 cups butter
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
2 ripe bananas, mashed
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 cup white sugar
2 eggs, separated
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 teaspoon banana extract

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9 x 5 inch loaf tin well.
Beat the egg whites until very stiff.
Cream butter or margarine and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat the egg yolks with the banana essence and the milk; stir into creamed mixture. Fold in bananas and walnuts. Sift the flour, and fold into the creamed mixture. Carefully fold in the egg whites. Pour batter into the prepared tin.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Turn out onto a wire rack, and cool. Slice and serve.

Black Bean Pie recipe.

Ingredients
2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained
1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, drained
1 (14.5 ounce) can peeled and diced tomatoes, drained
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, crushed
2 (9 inch) unbaked pie crusts
1 (16 ounce) package Cheddar cheese
10 (6 inch) flour tortillas

Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
In a large bowl, mix the beans, green chiles, tomatoes, onion and garlic. Line 9 inch pie pan with one pie crust. Pour 1/4 of the bean mixture into crust and spread evenly. Sprinkle with some of the cheese and cover with a tortilla. Continue to layer mixture the with cheese and tortillas, then cover with second pie crust. Flute edges and make slits in top.
Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until crust is golden.

Baked Basil Fries recipe.

Ingredients
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil
1 tablespoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
4 medium red potatoes

Directions
In a bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, oil, basil and garlic powder.
Cut potatoes into 1/4-in. sticks. Add to cheese mixture; toss to coat. Place in a 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan coated with nonstick cooking spray.
Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes; turn potatoes. Bake 15-20 minutes longer or until crisp and tender.

Best Ever Muffins recipe.

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C).
Stir together the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar in a large bowl. Make a well in the center. In a small bowl or 2 cup measuring cup, beat egg with a fork. Stir in milk and oil. Pour all at once into the well in the flour mixture. Mix quickly and lightly with a fork until moistened, but do not beat. The batter will be lumpy. Pour the batter into paper lined muffin pan cups.
Variations: Blueberry Muffins: Add 1 cup fresh blueberries. Raisin Muffins: Add 1 cup finely chopped raisins. Date Muffins: Add 1 cup finely chopped dates. Cheese Muffins: Fold in 1 cup grated sharp yellow cheese. Bacon Muffins: Fold 1/4 cup crisp cooked bacon, broken into bits.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden.

Brenda's Strawberry Slush Delight recipe.

Ingredients
3 cups sugar
6 cups water
1 (46 fluid ounce) can pineapple juice
1 (12 fluid ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate
2 (12 fluid ounce) cans frozen orange juice concentrate
1 quart strawberries (fresh or frozen) pureed in a blender
2 cups rum, or to taste
2 (2 liter) bottles chilled lemon-lime soda

Directions
In a saucepan, dissolve the sugar in the water by bringing it to a boil over medium-high heat. Turn off the heat and allow it to cool.
Combine the sugar water with the pineapple juice, lemonade, orange juice and pureed strawberries in a 6-quart container. Mix in the rum to taste. Put the entire mixture into a large plastic ice cream pail and freeze overnight.
To make the drinks to order, scoop 1/2 cup of the frozen mixture into an 8 oz glass. Fill the glass with lemon-lime soda and serve with a straw. Keeps well in freezer for up to one month.

Blueberry Mini Muffins recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
1 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
5 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
3 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Additional sugar

Directions
In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, buttermilk and vanilla; mix well. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt; stir into the creamed mixture just until moistened. Fold in blueberries (batter will be thick).
Fill greased or paper-lined miniature muffin cups with about a tablespoon of batter. Sprinkle with sugar if desired. Bake at 400 degrees F for 10-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack.

Alyson's Broccoli Salad recipe.

Ingredients
1 head fresh broccoli, cut into bite size pieces
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup red onion, chopped
2 tablespoons white sugar
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sunflower seeds
10 slices bacon

Directions
Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Crumble and set aside.
In a salad bowl, toss together broccoli, raisins and red onions. In a separate bowl, whisk together the white sugar, vinegar and mayonnaise. Pour over broccoli mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Before serving, sprinkle with sunflower seeds and crumbled bacon. Toss and serve.

Beth's Portobello Mushroom Burgers recipe.

Ingredients
2 portobello mushroom caps
4 slices turkey bacon
3 teaspoons horseradish sauce
2 leaves romaine lettuce
2 slices tomato
2 hamburger buns

Directions
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Line a cookie sheet with foil, and spray it with cooking spray. With a damp cloth, wipe the mushrooms making sure to get off any excess dirt. Trim the stem so the mushroom will sit even like a hamburger.
Wrap 2 pieces of turkey bacon around each mushroom, tucking the ends under the stem. Place the mushrooms on the cookie sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove mushrooms from cookie sheet to paper towel to drain.
Spread 1 1/2 teaspoons of the horseradish sauce over each of the buns (adjust to your own taste). Place 1 piece of lettuce and 1 slice tomato onto each bun. Place one mushroom burger on each bun.

Best Stovetop BBQ Ribs recipe.

Ingredients
1/4 cup steak sauce (such as A1�)
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/4 cup water
4 (6 ounce) country style pork ribs
1 onion, cut into rings (optional)

Directions
Whisk together steak sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and water in a bowl until smooth.
Place the pork ribs in a saucepan with a lid, and pour the sauce over the ribs. Spread raw onion rings over the ribs, and cover the pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, and simmer the ribs in the sauce for 45 minutes, or until tender.

Broccoli Pork Stir-Fry recipe.

Ingredients
1 (3 ounce) package pork ramen noodles
1 cup warm water
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2/3 cup cold water
1 1/2 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon white vinegar
4 teaspoons canola oil
1/2 pound pork tenderloin, thinly sliced
6 large fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 cup fresh broccoli florets
1/2 cup julienned sweet red pepper
3 green onions, sliced (white parts only)

Directions
Set aside 1 teaspoon of seasoning from seasoning packet (discard remaining seasoning or save for another use). Break noodles into small pieces and place in a microwave-safe dish; add warm water. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, pepper flakes and reserved seasoning. Stir in the cold water, soy sauce and vinegar until smooth; set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat oil; stir-fry pork and mushrooms for 5 minutes. Add broccoli and red pepper. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender and pork is no longer pink. Stir cornstarch mixture and stir into skillet. Add noodles and onions. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Blue Cheese Appetizer Pizza recipe.

Ingredients
1 (1 pound) loaf frozen bread dough, thawed
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons dried basil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 small red onion, thinly sliced, pulled into rings
2 plum tomatoes, chopped
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
3 ounces crumbled blue cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
Divide bread dough in half. Press each portion onto the bottom of a 12-in. pizza pan coated with nonstick cooking spray; build up edges slightly. Prick dough several times with a fork. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
Brush dough with oil. Combine the basil, oregano and garlic powder; sprinkle over dough. Bake at 425 degrees F for 10 minutes. Arrange onion and tomatoes over crust; sprinkle with cheeses. Bake 8-10 minutes longer or until golden brown.

Autumn Vegetables Au Gratin recipe.

Ingredients
3 cups diced rutabaga
3 cups diced peeled potatoes
2 cups sliced carrots
6 tablespoons butter or margarine, divided
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup soft bread crumbs

Directions
Place rutabagas in a large saucepan or Dutch oven; cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 25 minutes. Add potatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Add carrots. bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 15 minutes longer or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Drain, reserving 1 cup liquid.
In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in flour, salt, pepper and nutmeg until smooth. Add milk and reserved cooking liquid. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat. Stir in 1/4 cup cheese until melted. Add vegetables; toss to coat.
Transfer to a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Melt the remaining butter in a small skillet. Add bread crumbs; cook and stir for 3-4 minutes or until lightly browned. Sprinkle over vegetables; top with the remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly around the edges.