week of 12/23

Mon: 2 Christmas theme pizzas- a vegetable Christmas tree w/ cream cheese & a pepperoni/cheese candy cane. For the veggie pizza, I went off this pic http://pinterest.com/pin/50595195785695207/ I made a garlic/herb cream cheese spread for the bottom http://allrecipes.com/recipe/garlic-and-herb-cream-cheese/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=garlic%20herb%20cream%20cheese&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Home%20Page (I didn't use the butter)

polar express hot chocolate: http://honeyandfitz.blogspot.com/2011/12/polar-express-hot-chocolate-recipe-aka.html#axzz2Fuhvaq7K

sugar cookies: http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2008/12/sugar-cookies.html

Tues: Jesus Birthday cake: http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2010/12/sour-cream-coffee-cake.html

Greek vegetables Christmas dinner

Wed: http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2012/01/asian-beef-tacos.html

Thurs: frozen quesadillas from meal swap

Fri: http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/03/spicy-dr-pepper-shredded-pork/
http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/06/pork-sandwiches-with-cilantro-jalapeno-slaw/

Sat. out with John & Courtney (Chicken tenders & broccoli for Colter)

week of 12/16

Mon: http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/04/tender-pork-chops-with-caramelized-apples-and-onions.html

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/04/roasted-garlic-and-parmesan-mashed-potatoes.html

Tues: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/harvest-moon-macaroni-recipe/index.html

Wed: chipotle

Thurs: beef/barley soup

Fri: mexican pizzas http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2010/04/mexican-pizza.html

Sat: Jimmy Johns

Sun: http://www.prouditaliancook.com/2009/10/butternut-squash-stuffed-shells-with.html + asparagus

week of 12/10

http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/03/grilled-chicken-and-roasted-red-pepper-panini/- this panini will go down in the history books as one of the best paninis EVER

http://www.rachaelraymag.com/Recipes/rachael-ray-magazine-recipe-search/dessert-recipes/hot-cocoa-cookies- made this for a cookie exchange and I really liked the results!

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2008/09/balsamic-chicken-with-goat-cheese.html- a quick, but super tasty week night meal

http://partiesandholidays.blogspot.com/2008/12/gingerbread-man.html - I made this for a gingerbread man day with the cousins. Seriously- this recipe is amazing!

week of 12/2

Fish tacos using frozen cod filets from TJ's, and filled the taco with cabbage slaw, lime juice, and some pico de gallo


http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2010/09/linguine-with-turkey-italian-sausage.html

http://savorysweetlife.com/2010/08/salsa-verde-chicken-with-herbed-cornmeal-dumplings/

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Chicken-Curry-with-Cashews-231358

week of 11/18

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/01/tortellini-spinach-salad-with-balsamic-tomato-vinaigrette.html- I loved this salad!! Super filling because of the tortelilini

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2009/09/crispy-southwest-chicken-wraps.html- easy throw together weeknight meal with a lot of flavor.

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2011/11/coconut-chicken-tenders.html- We all gobbled these up!

week of 11/25

I forgot to post a month full of recipes so unfortunately I can't offer a lot of reviews..

http://browniesfordinner.com/2010/05/11/easy-pad-thai/

http://pieceofcakeblogger.com/2012/05/02/spaghetti-squash-spaghetti/- I do remember this was super delicious!

http://www.cuisinerecipes.com/2012/03/22/cheesy-potato-soup/2/ +asparagus

http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2012/02/chicken-tostadas-with-avocado-dressing.html - I love love LOVE this recipe.

ribeye steaks + http://www.teeniecakes.com/2010/12/roasted-parmesan-sweet-potatoes/

week of 11/11

http://morefruitplease.net/2012/04/23/tomato-basil-and-cheddar-soup/ - I really liked the inclusion of basil in this dish. Gotta love tomato soup!

http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/chinese-pork-tenderloin-noodles-50400000124228/- This was a fun new dish. I thought Colter would go for it because of the noodles..not so much. We enjoyed it though!

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/search?q=black+bean+tacos- one of our most cooked recipes

http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2011/05/creamy-chicken-baked-flautas.html- made these for someone and kept a few for ourselves. I love this recipe. 

http://www.insockmonkeyslippers.com/baked-panko-crusted-chicken-strips-with-apricot-dijon-mustard-dip

http://nauticalcottageblog.com/2011/10/taste-of-the-coast-pumpkin-pie-croissants/- I think this recipe has potential, I just made too many mistakes :) Baked them too long and forgot to combine the pumpkin pie spice with the sugar to roll. Oh well!

http://www.food.com/recipe/crock-pot-white-chicken-chili-114789- Made this for community group and got a lot of compliments. I'm not a fan of cooking with cream of chicken soup, but I was too lazy to think up another solution. I did make up my own taco seasoning mix.

week of 10/22

http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2012/10/turkey-italian-sausage-and-ricotta-lasagna.html- I really liked these and liked the roll up style rather than a whole pan of lasagna.

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2012/01/asian-beef-tacos.html- these were super tasty. Ben's favorite part was the coleslaw.


http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2008/08/pork-tacos-with-fresh-pico-de-gallo-and.html- I love using tenderloin for tacos. These were absolutely delicious!

http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2011/11/apple-cider-caramel-cookies-recipe.html- made these for the garbage man and Ben's work. I may have sampled a couple. DELICIOUS!

week of 10/10

http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/03/spicy-dr-pepper-shredded-pork/- one of my favorite shredded pork recipes. This time we made sandwiches, but i've used it to make tacos before too.

http://www.closetcooking.com/2007/11/pumpkin-and-black-bean-burritos.html- I thought Colter would be all over this, but he wasn't a huge fan. Can't blame it on the recipe, it was tasty, but rather the ever shifting taste buds of a toddler.

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2008/11/butter-chicken-indian-chicken-in-tomato.html- one of my favorites.

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2008/09/creamy-white-chili.html- this was absolutely delicious!

week of 10/4

Tuna Fish Sandwiches, sweet potato Fries and Chips.

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Chicken-Curry-with-Cashews-231358- apparently Colter is a huge Indian food fan. He gobbled this up!

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2008/12/crockpot-chicken-with-black-beans.html- made this for our neighbors, we all liked it.. wasn't quite as good as I remembered though.

week of 9/24

baked potato bar: cheddar cheese, scallions, bacon, sour cream, broccoli

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/orange-pecan-french-toast/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=orange%20pecan%20french%20toast&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Home%20Page - anniversary breakfast. Absolutely amazing.. and this is coming from someone that doesn't really like nuts!

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2010/01/chicken-lemon-dill-and-orzo.html +asparagus- I love meals that can be thrown together in 15-20 min. This is one of those. And it tastes great!

Ben was a rockstar with cooking a huge dinner for my birthday. He served

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/05/marinated-caprese-salad.html- this really can't be beat
baked brie on rosemary bread
olive tapenade on french bread

3 different kinds of flat bread:

bbq chicken- shredded rotisserie chicken coated in bbq sauce, with sliced red onions & cilantro, topped with cheddar cheese

brie, pear & candied pecans- sliced brie & pear, and used this recipe for the pecans:

Quick Spiced Pecans:
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
2 cups pecan halves
1 tablespoon sugar
For the pecans, melt the butter in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in the spices and then the pecans. Toast the nuts, stirring often, until the color deepens slightly and they are lightly toasted, about 5-7 minutes. 

kalamata olives, feta & marinated artichoke hearts. The base was a combination of a little bit of the artichoke marinated, some melted butter & garlic

For dessert:

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2011/10/chocolate-cake.html- can't be beat

week of 9/17

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2008/09/balsamic-chicken-with-goat-cheese.html- one of my favorite meals. Super easy, tastes gourmet.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/chicken-enchiladas-recipe/index.html- my mom's enchilada's are hard to beat, but these are up there with my favorites.

week of 9/10

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/03/tomato-bisque-soup-and-a-few-housekeeping-items.html
I love tomato soup.. and so does my family. This is one of the best because of the bonus squash!

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/08/roasted-garlic-and-cauliflower-pasta.html
I made this for the meal swap. I think i've made it before, but it wasn't as good as I remembered it. I hoped Colter wouldn't pick out the cauliflower, but it was all over the floor.

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2009/02/slow-cooker-ribs.html
These are seriously so amazing. Falling off the bone.. such good flavor.. yum!

week of 9/4

http://www.kitchenmeetsgirl.com/uncategorized/honey-lime-chicken-skewers/ + sweet potato kabob
The flavor on the chicken was fantastic. Super juicy. yum! Would definitely make again

http://www.plainchicken.com/2012/08/open-faced-tacos.html
I love having at least one quick throw together meal during the week. These were easy and super tasty.

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/11/sesame-chicken-stir-fry.html
A wonderful recipe- I just marinated the chicken in the soy sauce and it turned out way too salty, so don't prep the chicken in advance! Otherwise, great flavor

week of 8/27

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2010/11/enchilada-soup.html- not my favorite soup, but not bad. I think i'd rather have a good chicken tortilla soup.

http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2012/07/grilled-corn-poblano-and-black-bean-salad.html- such a tasty salad.

http://joelens.blogspot.com/2010/05/cilantro-lime-chicken-tacos.html- this flavor was amazing!

week of 8/20

http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/pancetta-salmon-kebabs-with-parsley-vinaigrette-10000001989979/
Rosemary potatoes – thinly slice fingerling potatoes toss in olive oil, s/p and freshly chopped rosemary. Roast at 400 for 30 minutes or until crispy

These were super tasty and really easy to put together. The house smelled amazing!

http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2010/11/teriyaki-chicken-thighs.html
broccoli

Wish I would have marinated longer, but still an easy meal

http://godofscrumprecipes.tumblr.com/post/21100317594/spaghetti-in-garlic-gravy-with-herbs-and-lemon

I want to make this again right now!! Definitely try this one!

week of 8/6

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/search?q=cornbread+salad- still one of my favorite salads ever.

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2012/07/chicken-spinach-artichoke-and-asiago-pizza.html- yummmmmmmmmm so good.

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2012/05/skillet-taco-pie.html- this was AMAZING! I have a ton of the corn flour left if you need some and want to make this!

week of 8/16

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/01/creamy-5-cup-fruit-salad.html- a pregnancy craving. yum!

http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/08/bbq-macaroni-salad.html- this was really tasty, perfect for a picnic! The spices added a really nice smoky flavor.

http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2012/08/creamy-avocado-and-white-bean-wraps.html I love meals that can be completed in 15 minutes and still be really good. This is one of them!

I didn't have honey, bummer, to this recipe didn't quite work out but I love the idea of chipotle and honey on corn! http://www.sunset.com/food-wine/kitchen-assistant/fresh-summer-corn-recipes-00400000044682/page11.html

super easy, super simple, still pretty good http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Barbecue-Jack-Chicken

This was a different take on chili with the cubed steak. It had good flavor, but I prefer my dad's chili over this by a long shot. http://foodformyfamily.com/recipes/steak-chili-to-combat-the-january-freeze

This was really really good and pretty simple to make. http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/mac-and-cheese-roasted-chicken-and-goat-cheese/#comment-64980

I love butter chicken!!! http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2008/11/butter-chicken-indian-chicken-in-tomato.html

It's a struggle to find much that I enjoy these days. The family loved these, but I just couldn't do it this time around! http://joyful-mommas-kitchen.blogspot.com/2011/09/white-chicken-enchiladas.html Adding spinach and diced bell peppers

This was FANTASTIC!!! yum yum yum I want to eat this again. now http://www.ourbestbites.com/2012/07/grilled-bbq-pulled-pork-pizza/

I've made this before.. I really like it! http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2012/07/tomato-alphabet-soup.html

week of 7/9

An easy, tasty way to get great nutrition! http://budgetbytes.blogspot.com/2012/06/apple-dijon-kale-salad-553-recipe-138.html

This had great flavor and packed with good things. We also discovered that Colter has a lentil allergy! http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2010/04/lentil-kale-and-bacon-soup.html

yum. This was AMAZING! http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2012/07/grilled-caprese-chicken.html

Super tasty http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2011/08/tomato-salad-with-fresh-herbs-and.html

Super easy, perfect for summer. http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2012/06/sweet-and-spicy-pork-tenderloin.html

pretty basic, but a fun twist to sweet potatoes. http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/08/grilled-sweet-potato-skewers.html

Keepin it simple these days..

pan roasted salmon http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2012/06/pan-roasted-salmon.html

fish tacos- I used frozen, breaded halibut from TJ's, and filled the taco with cabbage slaw, lime juice, and some pico de gallo

week of 6/15

ok I really have been cooking, just haven't been good about posting!

This was delicious for a picnic at the zoo! Some unique things for chicken salad, but it all blended great! http://allrecipes.com/recipe/fruity-curry-chicken-salad/detail.aspx?
event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=chicken%20salad&e8=Quick%20S

This was a simple, tasty recipe to through together for a quick week night dinner. http://www.thekitchn.com/lunch-recipe-yogurt-marinated-chicken-creamy-greek-sauce-167581

mmmm amazing! http://budgetbytes.blogspot.com/2011/05/balsamic-caprese-panini-236-each.html

I don't know what it is about these, but we can't get enough of them! It sounds so.. boring, but man are they tasty! (Stephanie you need to give these another try and FRY THEM!) http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/search?q=black+bean+tacos

week of 6/4

My brain is failing me.. I can't quite remember this recipe, but I think it was good. I couldn't quite figure out how to stuff it, so I just split it in half like a taco and tried the best I could to pin it shut with toothpicks. http://janalaurene.com/blog/recipes/pork-tenderloin-stuffed-with-spinach-and-sun-dried-tomatoes/

I am a spicy food lover, but this was SPICY! Definitely cut it down to 1 or 2 jalapenos .otherwise tasty. http://www.skinnytaste.com/2012/04/cheesy-jalapeno-popper-baked-stuffed.html

http://www.skinnytaste.com/2011/04/fiesta-lime-rice.html

A tasty side for our camping adventure. http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2010/04/skillet-cornbread.html

week of 5/27

Just a few random things this week:

Here is my meal for my meal swap: Spinach artichoke dip pasta. I just sampled a little bit before bagging it up and it was tasty! http://budgetbytes.blogspot.com/2010/10/spinach-artichoke-pasta-729-recipe-122.html

This was a recipe that we received that was seriously amazing. http://utah.todaysmama.com/2012/03/20/tomato-basil-parmesan-soup-in-the-slow-cooker-or-on-the-stove-top/ I want to make parmesan crisps to put on top to make it even better.

I made this dessert for a party we went to on Saturday. It was a big hit and super easy to make. http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Peanut-Butter-Chocolate-Dessert

week of 5/24

Quite a few winners this week. This was super simple to throw together, but so flavorful. I ate it cold the next day and it was just as good. http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2010/09/linguine-with-turkey-italian-sausage.html

We made this for community group and it was a hit. A little bit heavy, so I probably wouldn't make this for just the three of us. http://heatovento350.blogspot.com/2012/05/slow-cooker-chalupa.html#0_undefined,0_

We'll definitely make this again. Perfect for a picnic, or a quick week night dinner. http://www.emilybites.com/2012/04/mediterranean-chicken-wraps.html

week of 4/30

For Ben's bday.. super yummy! http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-challenge/grilled-california-avocado-b-l-t-burgers-with-caramelized-chipotle-onions-recipe/index.html

A quick throw together meal that I love., http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2011/04/barbecue-chicken-pizza-braid.html

I co-hosted a shower over the weekend and had some fun party food.

sun-dried tomato dip http://allrecipes.com/recipe/sun-dried-tomato-dip/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=sun%20dried%20tomato%20dip&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Home%20Page

miniature fruit pizza bar seen here: http://www.lifesweetlifeblog.com/2011/09/little-man-baby-shower.html

I also made mini skewers on toothpicks with kalamata olives, cherry tomoatoes, and mozz balls

For favors: lemon sugar cookies w/ glaze http://luluthebaker.blogspot.jp/2010/02/lemon-sugar-cookies-with-lemon-cream.html

For drinks: http://www.lifesambrosia.com/2009/06/sparkling-strawberry-lemonade-recipe.html

week of 4/23

I made a few repeats this week so I only have one new recipe to share. Super tasty. http://www.health.com/health/recipe/0,,50400000110657,00.html

week of 4/16

Still trying to eat healthy. I wasn't sure if this would make me feel full enough to pass it off as dinner, but it surprisingly did. Packed full of good food, and Colter loved it! http://www.eating-for-england.com/quinoa-salad-beans-avocado/

This soup was so delicious.. definitely going to be on the rotating menu. I think it is extra good just because the alphabet letters are cute! http://www.rachaelraymag.com/Recipes/rachael-ray-magazine-recipe-search/no-recipe-zone-recipes/tomato-alphabet-soup-with-parmesan-crisps

I really liked the flavors in this dish. Served with the spinach for a super healthy meal!
http://www.asweetpeachef.com/entrees/pan-roasted-salmon/

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/garlic-sauteed-spinach-recipe/index.html

These were delicious, but definitely a little spicy, so use less sriracha sauce http://www.blue-kitchen.com/2011/05/25/big-flavor-in-a-hurry-asian-turkey-burgers-with-sriracha-mayonnaise/

week of 4/2

This was absolutely delicious. I baked the salmon instead of searing it because I like my fish totally cooked. The dill sauce was so fresh and YUMMY http://www.closetcooking.com/2007/06/pan-seared-salmon-with-dill-sour-cream.html

I LOVE these tacos. They are so simple, but I could eat them every week! http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/search?q=black+bean+tacos

This was a delicious glaze on a chicken. A simple but super favorable recipe. http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2012/03/maple-mustard-glazed-chicken.html

http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2012/03/herbed-couscous-pilaf.html

I made these for Ben as his reward for holding off on sweets for the most part during lent. I really don't like coconut but the nutella really added to this delicious recipe. http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/coconut-macaroon-nutella-nests/

I made these for Easter dessert. oh my GOODNESS!! Make them today, thank me later. I could not find the cookies n' cream kisses, so I used 3 bars of hershey's cookies n' cream bars. http://picky-palate.com/2012/03/08/double-cookies-and-cream-kiss-cookie-bars/

week of 3/25

Chipotle is one of my absolute favorite flavors, so of course I loved this. The salad was pretty simple, so the dressing is what definitely made it. The next day I rolled up the meat covered in the dressing in a tortilla. YUM! http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/chipotle-chicken-taco-salad-10000001215905/

We're trying to eat a little healthier around here, so I picked out this simple dish. I marinated the chicken for a few hours which made it pretty tender. The salsa is what made it though. http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/cilantro-lime-chicken-with-avocado-salsa-10000001886432/

I've made this soup before.. I absolutely LOVE it. http://savorysweetlife.com/2010/01/chicken-coconut-curry-soup/

week of 3/19

I loved this, especially the tangy dressing. Colter loved the chicken dipped in avocado sauce. http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2012/02/chicken-tostadas-with-avocado-dressing.html

These were absolutely delicious, I have never dipped chicken in coconut milk before and I think that made it extra tender. I accidentally bought hot chili sauce so I about died when I dipped the chicken in a HUGE glob of sauce :) http://budgetbytes.blogspot.com/2010/01/coconut-chicken-w-sweet-chili-sauce-691.html

Chicken fajitas. I seasoned 3 chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, pepper, and salt, and a little oregano. Sauteed the chicken in diced chunks. Served with sauteed red/green peppers & red onion, and homemade guacamole.

Guacamole:
3 ripe avocados
1 large hothouse tomato (cut off the top and squeeze out the seeds & juice)
juice for 1 lime
1 jalapeno, seeded and diced fine
1-2 T red onion
salt & a little pepper to taste
Mash with a fork so it has a lumpy consistency

week of 3/12

I haven't made this recipe in so long, but man is it delicious! I bought goat cheese at costco and put the 2nd log in the freezer for another meal. SO good. I served this with roasted asparagus. http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/search?q=balsamic+chicken

Stir fry using this marinade for chicken
Marinade:
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 T sesame oil
2 T mirin or sherry 
3 T sugar or honey 
1 t salt
1 bunch green onion, chopped into 1″ pieces
6 cloves garlic, minced
Serving with steamed brown rice and sautéed veggies

I am a huge fan of tomato soup, and this recipe is probably my favorite so far. The butternut squash adds a ton of creaminess and you can't even taste it. Colter loved this! http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/03/tomato-bisque-soup-and-a-few-housekeeping-items.html

I made this to go along side the balsamic pork recipe I've made before. So delicious! http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/05/guacamole-salad.html

This was a super simple salad, but the flavors were fantastic! http://www.closetcooking.com/2008/07/jerked-chicken-with-mango-and-avocado.html

week of 2/28

I tried a new pork recipe to use up a tenderloin I had in the freezer. I only marinated it for a few hours- I think it would have tasted better if it was overnight. Still good flavor though. http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/herb-marinated-pork-tenderloins-recipe/index.html

I learned something new about my husband when I made this dish- apparently he doesn't like mushrooms! Needless to say, this wasn't his favorite, but I appreciated the tang of the lemon. I still like marsala better. http://overcocktails.blogspot.com/2009/03/chicken-piccata-all-time-fave.html

I had this recipe for the first time at a harvest party and I love it. A tasty way to get a load of good stuff. Colter was crazy about this salad. He was stuffing kale in his house like it was candy. I know, count my blessings. http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/09/massaged-kale-and-craisin-salad-with-feta-cheese.html

I have made this before- so delicious. I am not a nut fan but the spiced pecans YUM!!! http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/10/romaine-salad-with-chicken-cheddar-apples-spiced-pecans-and-cranberry-vinaigrette.html

This is by far my favorite type of sandwich. I had one at starbucks for lunch and then made this for dinner. You just can't go wrong! http://anediblesymphony.blogspot.com/2009/04/tff-fic-grilled-cheese-forever.html

week of 2/20

It was the week of my little man's bday. We had a ton of guests in town, so I didn't plan a ton of meals because I knew we would be out and about. I can't believe I only cooked twice!

This was absolutely delicious! http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2011/04/barbecue-chicken-pizza-braid.html

So fresh, so yummy.. I love the sauce! http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2008/10/thai-wraps.html

week of 2/14

These had fabulous flavor and were pretty simple to make. yum! http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2012/02/korean-street-tacos.html

My mom makes amazing enchiladas, so I was doubtful that anything could compare, and I was right. These weren't even close to being up to par with my mom. http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/09/red-chile-sauce-chicken-enchiladas.html

Such an easy week night meal that I love! http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2011/02/crispy-black-bean-tacos-with-cabbage.html

I did a barter for some mason jars for my brother's wedding by making these cookies, YUM! http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/search?q=monster+cookie

Valentines Breakfast

I am all about breakfast, and all about reasons to eat things that are basically cake and call it breakfast. Here are two recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth and are pretty much guaranteed to make your hunny swoon.

photo courtesy of duhlicious.com

I made these back in September for our anniversary. It was a little involved with a few different things going on, but man was it worth it. We still talk about these!

Red Velvet Crepes
(Makes about 24, 8″ crepes)

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups butter milk
- 1 1/4 cup whole or lowfat milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 tablespoon red food color gel
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
+ 2 tablespoons cooking oil (for pan)

*Update: Because the buttermilk lends to the acidity of this batter, do not substitute the baking soda for extra baking powder. If you add more baking powder, and omit the baking soda, you’ll end up with a heavy and dense crepe. In order to activate the baking soda, it requires an acidic substance, which the buttermilk provides. Double-acting baking powder (likely, this is what you have in your kitchen) is activated by heat and an acidic element, and in this case, baking soda does the trick. Enough with the chemistry lesson– just don’t make substitutes if you want light and fluffy crepes; the recipe is balanced to account for ingredient properties.

Mascarpone Cream Filling
- 2 c heavy cream
- 10 oz. mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup icing sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- zest of 1 orange (optional, but adds nice tang)
+ 1/2 cup raspberry jam (optional, for filling crepes)

Chocolate Ganache Topping
- 2 oz bittersweet chocolate
- 1/3 c heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar

Directions:

For the Mascarpone Filling:
1. Using a mixer, mix mascarpone cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, and vanilla until soft and fluffy. Set aside.
2. Whip cream and remaining sugar to a stiff peak. Carefully fold into the mascarpone cheese until combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.

For Chocolate Ganche Sauce
1. Place chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set aside. In a small sauce pan, heat cream and sugar to a rolling boil. Remove from heat, and pour over chocolate. Carefully mix until homogenous, and set aside until ready to use. If the ganache sets, re-melt the chocolate over a double boiler.

Red Velvet Crepes
1. In a large bowl stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, milk, egg, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract and food coloring. Whisk until combined.

3. Pour the liquid ingredients into the mixing bowl with the dry ingredients, and stir with a wooden spoon until the dry ingredients are combined. The batter will be a little runny (think soup). If you find that the batter is too thick and pancake like, add more milk (regular). Make sure the batter is clear of lumps.

4. With a pastry brush, brush the surface of large (non-stick) skillet with cooking oil. Heat it over medium heat. Test skillet after a couple of minutes by drizzling a few few drops of water onto the cooking surface. If the drops sizzle and evaporate, the surface is hot enough.

5. Turn the heat down to medium. For each crepe, spoon or ladle about 1/4 cup of the batter into the center of the skillet. Holding onto the handle of the pan, remove it from the heat and swirl the pan so the batter coats the bottom of the pan. You want to make the coating as thin as possible. If you have holes in the crepe, go ahead and add more batter to the pan to cover them. Return to heat.

6. As the batter cooks, it will dry and lose its shine (~ 2 minutes). Once this happens, use a non-metal spatula and carefully flip the crepe over. Finish cooking the crepe on the other side (~ 45 seconds).

7. Gently slide the cooked crepe onto an ovenproof plate, and keep the finished crepes warm in an oven set at 195 degrees.

Assembling the Crepes:
- If using raspberry jam, place a small amount the center of the crepe. Pipe mascarpone cream filling, and carefully roll.

The second recipe is easier, but still SO tasty. I found these beauties on my latest addiction, pinterest.

Red Velvet Pancakes with Chocolate chips

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

6 tablespoons granulated sugar

4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

2 large eggs

1-1/2 cups buttermilk

1/2 cup sour cream

2 teaspoons red food coloring

4 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 cup chocolate chips (doesn’t matter what kind you use)

Directions

Combine all dry ingredients in a large bowl and set aside.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, sour cream, food coloring and vanilla.

Add wet ingredients to dry, and mix just until combined.

Add chocolate chips and fold in batter.

Pour about 1/3 cup onto medium/high griddle and lightly brown on both sides.

Sprinkle powdered sugar on top and serve with maple syrup.

Enjoy!

week of 2/6

Harper finally arrived the day before I went to the grocery store.. so this week I really rocked the cooking.. not..

The second time I've made this recipe, it is just so good! http://www.closetcooking.com/2008/01/ministrone-soup-with-sausage-and-squash.html

Ben said this is his favorite sandwich ever! I especially loved the grilled chipotle onions and want to try some of his other recipes to use them up! http://www.closetcooking.com/2011/08/grilled-chicken-and-club-sandwich-with.html

I made this for 2 new mommas this week and according to them, it was a hit. I've made this many times in the past and LOVE IT! http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2008/09/blue-chips-chicken-salad.html

week of 1/30

I was really excited about this recipe, but then I made it and for some reason could not even try it. Ben said it was ok, but I can't give it an honest review because I just never could eat it. sorry! http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/food/recipes/bacon-leek-tomato-brisket/print/

This is going to be a new go to recipe for a quick, easy, but delicious meal. This would be great for road trips and traveling. http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2012/01/smoked-turkey-cobb-wraps.html

mmm I love ramen, and I love that this doesn't use the seasoning packet. So delicious http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/04/kicked-up-ramen-noodles-kung-pao-style.html

I saw this on pinterest. I don't know why this is so amazing, but seriously. Probably the best pork i've ever had. I made two tenderloins and doubled (close to tripled) the spices. mmmmm it was so good!! http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/09/sweet-balsamic-glazed-pork-loin-slow-cooker.html

I made this to go along with the pork and gave it to a family with a new baby, so I don't have a first hand review, but it looked good! http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/08/mango-and-black-bean-quinoa-salad.html

Another pinterest recipe. I brought this to dinner with friends and everyone went for seconds and Ben and I went for thirds when we got home :) SO delicious http://www.thecountrycook.net/2011/07/puddin-poke-cake.html

week of 1/23

We were expecting Harper to make his/her grand entrance this week, so I planned easy recipes. We're still waiting on this little babe!

These were so easy, but SO good! http://annies-eats.com/2011/01/25/spicy-bean-burritos/

I'm not sure if I cooked the chicken too long, but it was really tough, and Ben said that he probably wouldn't want to eat this again. I always love artichoke hearts, tomatoes and olives, and I loved the orzo, maybe as a side dish minus the chicken?? http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2012/01/mediterranean-chicken-and-orzo-bake.html

This had a ton of flavor and Ben loved this. http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2011/10/chili-with-black-beans-and-grilled-chicken.html

Yum, I surprisingly really loved the sweet potatoes combined with the shredded beef. Colter loved the beef! http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2011/01/shredded-beef-and-sweet-potato-baked-taquitos.html

week of 1/17

Yum- perfect for all the snow we had last week. I loved the lime and cilantro combination. Ben kept saying over and over how much he liked this. http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/01/coconut-curry-soup.html

This salad was fabulous. You could serve this as a main dish, or as a side for a large group gathering. http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/greek-panzanella-recipe/index.html

I loved everything about this sandwich- it was quick, tasty, and filling. http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2011/06/smoked-turkey-club-panini.html

oh man, this dessert is SO easy and out of this world. I only used 2 packages of cream cheese http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Sopapilla-Cheesecake-Dessert/

I made these for my friend Kellie's shower. I am not the most patient baker, so my cupcakes went south early on. It is pretty labor intensive, BUT they were still totally delicious even if they were a little... flat. http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2011/08/strawberry-cheesecake-cupcakes.html

week of 1/9

So sorry about my month long hiatus from blog land. I was sucked into the "I love having my husband home from work and don't feel like cooking land" and now I'm back and ready to start up again!

Monday: I just stuffed some mozzarella, basil, and little tomatoes inside chicken breasts and seasoned with salt and pepper. Served with brown rice from TJ and broccoli

Tuesday: Still hadn't gone to the grocery store.. I served salmon seasoned with dill/lemon pepper with some mashed sweet potatoes.

Wednesday: My good bud Stephanie was raving about this recipe so I had to try this. SO easy, so delicious.. and the potatoes, YUM! http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/04/tender-pork-chops-with-caramelized-apples-and-onions.html

Thursday: So good. http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2010/07/creamy-chicken-taquitos.html

Friday: http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2012/01/spicy-pasta-salad-with-smoked-gouda.html

Saturday: http://jessieheaviland.blogspot.com/2011/04/beths-baked-potato-soup.html

Sunday: http://www.fortheloveofcooking.net/2011/11/pizza-with-ricotta-grape-tomatoes-red-onion-and-fresh-basil.html