Portabella-Basil Alfredo

I don't know if I've ever shared this with you, or not. But I'm one the biggest fans of mushrooms. Ever! I'm serious. It hasn't always been that way. My Mom is a HUGE mushroom fan. Always has been. But me. It took me a while to get "on board."

But once I did, there was no turning back. Not at all! I must buy 2 boxes of mushrooms, from COSTCO a week! I eat them raw. I add them to my favorite recipes. Heck, I just enjoy them every single day.

So when I got this yummy cookbook recently, there was no looking back! I was thumbing through, and noticed a certain little recipe. I wanted to make it immediately! But with all this traveling, it was pushed back.

Until this week. And I was at home. Looking at one of my favorite websites. Hello! Gooseberry Patch posted this recipe. It's this week's Recipe of the Week! A match made in Heaven!!!

Portabella-Basil Alfredo

16-oz. pkg. spinach fettuccine pasta, uncooked
1 T. olive oil
5 portabella mushrooms, chopped
3 c. milk
1-1/2 t. garlic salt
8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, cubed
3-oz. pkg. cream cheese, cubed
1-1/2 t. dried basil
1-1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms until tender, about 5 minutes; drain any extra liquid from pan. Add milk and garlic salt to skillet; heat just to boiling. Stir in both packages of cream cheese and basil. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring constantly, until cream cheese is melted. Stir in Parmesan cheese; cook over low heat until melted, about 3 minutes. Serve over pasta. Makes 8 to 10 servings.



This was dinner Wednesday. Mostly because we've been so busy. And haven't been to the grocery store. I had everything on hand. And whipped this up in no time! I made a few changes. I added onions. In this house, we LOVE them! And I used a few cloves of garlic. You know, instead of garlic salt. The flavors just melted together. And made such a yummy meal!

We had some friends in town, and this was dinner. It was fast enough, for a weeknight meal. But tasty enough, for company. I also made some homemade bread, a salad, and some dessert. It was yummy! And you should try it too. And soon! Thanks again, to Brooke for the yummy cookbook!!! ♥

Kay's Chinese Chicken Salad

Let me start off with, I've never really been a big fan of Ramen Noodles. Not that they aren't a wonderful little staple. But in my family, we never really ate them. Don't get me wrong. Later, when I went to college, they were a staple in my life.

Who can beat a month's worth of meals, for under $5? They're not terrific tasting. But when you're living penny to penny, well it's what you eat. It's been years, since I last had them. And I'm not even talking about the Ramen Noodle packs. I'm taking about the "Cup of Noodles."

But over the last few years, I've noticed so many recipes popping up. The first one, that I can remember, was from Paula Deen. I remember trying it. And really liking it. What happened to that recipe? I have no clue, where I put it!

So when I noticed this week's Gooseberry Patch, Recipe of the Week, I knew I had to make it! It was something that sounded interesting. Something that My Bestie wanted to eat for dinner. And well, something that we could cook up in our hotel room. :)

Kay's Chinese Chicken Salad

3-oz. pkg. chicken-flavored ramen noodles, uncooked
1 head cabbage, shredded
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
2 T. onion, chopped
2 T. slivered almonds, toasted
2 T. sesame seed, toasted

Dressing:
1 c. oil
3 T. sugar
1/3 c. vinegar
2 t. salt
1 t. pepper
reserved ramen noodle seasoning packet

Set aside ramen noodle seasoning packet for dressing; crush noodles. Combine all ingredients except seasoning packet in a large serving bowl; toss lightly to combine. Prepare Dressing: Whisk together all ingredients. Drizzle Salad with Dressing and toss again. Serves 8 to 10.



My Guy's grandma bought me this cookbook. Last week, I was cooking this up. When we all headed to Orlando. I know, how random is that? You see, on the way, My Bestie found the recipe. She was thumbing through the cookbook. And begged me, literally begged, for me to make this salad. Weird, right? I thought so! But then again, girl eats Ramen nearly every single day!

When I found the recipe this week, I knew I had to share with you. Who knows, there might be a "poor college student" out there. Like I was, just a few years ago. Needing to "doctor" up this staple. Like I said, we didn't really have a "full kitchen," or many kitchen staples or utensils to use. Much like a college student, in a dorm room. :)

We head to the local grocery store, and picked up a few ingredients. We bought a rotisserie chicken, and shredded her up. I shredded the cabbage. And we used the toaster oven, to toast the nuts and seeds. Honestly, it took a few minutes. And the dressing was super easy.

The salad had a lot of flavor. I'm thinking, the chicken added a lot to it. It was a little crunchy. But not horrible. It reminded me of Chow Mein Noodles. The dressing, was nicely absorbed into the noodles. And it honestly, made for a nice little lunch. Now I'm on the search, for more Ramen Noodle recipes. ♥

Seafood Stew

It's been ridiculously cold around here. Lots of traveling. Lots of different temps. Lots of chaos. Makes me think of Christmas. I know. But it's the truth. And last week, I found myself in one of my favorite places. Barnes and Noble. With my friend, Vi.

We're foodies. Through, and through. We met years ago, in college. Studying nutrition. There is an unbreakable bond there. And well, have I mentioned our love of food? That means, we spent most of 2 hours, browsing through the cookbooks. And eventually, I made a purchase.

Like I said, it's been chilly. Makes you want to curl up, with a big 'ol bowl of soup. That is exactly what was on this man's mind. Especially after he read this week's Gooseberry Patch, Recipe of the Week. Yes, My Guy checks out these recipes too. And in fact, e-mailed this one to me. Let's just keep that between you and me! ;)

Seafood Stew

2-1/2 c. chicken broth
1/2 c. long-cooking rice, uncooked
2 t. chili powder
2 cloves garlic, minced
14-1/2 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained
2-1/4 c. green, red and yellow peppers, thinly sliced
1/2 c. onion, thinly sliced
1/2-lb. fillet orange roughy, cut into bite-size pieces
1/4 lb. frozen cooked medium shrimp, thawed
3/4 c. orange juice concentrate

In a saucepan over high heat, bring broth to a boil. Add rice, chili powder and garlic. Stir well; return to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until rice is tender. Add tomatoes, peppers and onion. Cover; cook over medium heat until vegetables are tender. Add fish, shrimp and orange juice. Cover; simmer over low heat for 2 to 4 minutes, until fish flakes easily with a fork and shrimp are heated through. Serves 4.



Funny how I bought this book. and I just skimmed over this recipe. Not paying too much attention. But this guy, he got me interested in this recipe. In fact, right this minute, I have a pot of this simmering away. I can't wait until dinner! Heck, I NEED to go through this cookbook some more. Everything sounds so yummy! ♥

Avocado Dip

I'm a big fan of avocados!!! I think it's pretty easy to say, well you come from the southwest. You probably eat tubs of guacamole. But the truth is, that's just one of the ways, that I like to eat avocado.

Since I was little, avocado in my sandwiches is a MUST!!! There is absolutely no debating it. In fact, I've been known to go to COSTCO, just to buy avocados. From our home, that's almost an hour drive!!! And I really only buy avocados. :) Most of the time, I split them open, and just enjoy. Yum!

This week's Gooseberry Patch Recipe of the Week, just made me smile. Seriously! A new way to try avocados. And while hanging out with Zo this week, I made a big bowl of this dip! We just might have tripled the recipe. :) Yum, it was delish!!!



Avocado Dip

2 avocados, pitted, peeled and chopped
8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/4 c. mayonnaise
1/2 to 1 t. garlic salt

Blend all ingredients together; cover and chill until serving. Makes about 2 cups.



Not only was our dip yummy, but this cookbook, has just got me hooked!!! Thanks to Mrs. S (Zo's Mom. My almost MIL.) for buying it for me. What can I say? She just knows about my cookbook addiction!!! ♥

Mrs. Palmer's Fried Chicken

I have to say this much, My Guy is AMAZING!!! It's been a tough couple of days. If we're friends on Facebook, then you know why. And right now, that's all I'm going to say. I'm just not ready, to talk about it.

But back to this guy. He wanted to make me feel better. And he knows, that I REALLY LOVE fried chicken. But like me, he just doesn't attempt to make it. Not with his Grandma. Who makes the "World's Best Fried Chicken!" When we want fried chicken, we usually go to her.

This week, were still on the "road." Far from home. And I've been in a funk! A big one! So this guy, got the idea to make me, some fried chicken. He went to Google for a little help. And that sent him right to Gooseberry Patch. And this week's Recipe of the Week!



Mrs. Palmer's Fried Chicken

4 to 5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 qt. buttermilk
salt and pepper to taste
2 c. self-rising flour
2 t. garlic powder
2 t. dried parsley
2 t. dried thyme
2 t. poultry seasoning
1 t. dried rosemary
1 t. pepper
1 qt. oil
Garnish: chicken gravy or sweet-and-sour sauce

Cut chicken into strips, approximately 3 per breast. Place chicken in a large plastic zipping bag; pour buttermilk over chicken. Seal bag and chill for 2 to 3 hours. Drain chicken, discarding buttermilk; season chicken with salt and pepper. In a separate plastic zipping bag, combine flour and seasonings; seal bag and shake to mix well. Add chicken to bag, a few strips at a time; coat thoroughly. Heat oil to 350 degrees in an electric skillet. Carefully place chicken into hot oil; cook until both sides are golden. Drain on paper towels. Serve with chicken gravy or sweet-and-sour sauce. Serves 4.



And that is the yumminess, that My Guy made me. With the best mashed potatoes. And corn on the cob. Heck, he even managed a peach cobbler, with vanilla ice cream! Carb Heaven I tell you! It was the best thing, to drown out my sorrows. This is definitely a meal, that we're going to come back to. Many times!!!

It's these tough times, that remind me, he's perfect! Takes care of me, when I need it most. Whether it's listening to long stories about my childhood, traveling home with me, or cooking for me...he does it. No questions asked! My Guy even ordered this cookbook for me. Thank You My Love!!! ♥

Julie's Fresh Guacamole

This has been a very busy week. Lots of working. Lots of traveling. But, we carved out some time, to hangout with some good friends. There was celebrating this week. For this guy. And lots of good times. But, we were all craving some quiet time. Something low key.

So we all headed to our "Desert Home." Where Mexican food, was definitely on my mind! My Bestie and I, grew up in the SW. So this was right up our alley! I decided on a menu of shrimp tacos, rice, and calabacitas. Oh, and of course, guacamole!

While grocery shopping, My Bestie was telling me, about this week's Free Recipe of the Week, from Gooseberry Patch. Funny that she told me, about it! But I have been so busy. And I hadn't seen the recipe. Between, I really want this cookbook now! And it sounded different from our normal guacamole, but we gave this recipe a try.



Julie's Fresh Guacamole

6 avocados, halved and pitted
3 T. lime juice
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
4 roma tomatoes, chopped
3/4 c. sour cream
1 T. ranch salad dressing
1 T. salt, or to taste
1 T. pepper, or to taste
1 T. chili powder
1/2 t. cayenne pepper
Garnish: fresh cilantro sprigs
tortilla chips

Scoop out avocado pulp into a large bowl; mash with a fork. Add lime juice, onion and tomatoes; mix with a spoon. Add sour cream, salad dressing and seasonings; mix well. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips. Makes 8 to 10 servings.



I'm used to using jalapenos, garlic, and no "chili powders." Definitely no Ranch Salad Dressing. But you know what, this was good. I think it worked well, because the shrimp tacos are light. And this guacamole, just added a little more depth, to the tacos. It didn't overwhelm the "lightness" of the shrimp. Had it been something like fajitas, I just don't think this would have been a good pairing. But that's just my opinion.

Like I said, this was a nice change of pace. The guys enjoyed it. Us gals, we laughed so hard, and ate so much! It was just a fun, and light meal. We ate outside. Enjoyed the warm weather. Great company. We even had a nice little fire...with s'mores! And ended the night, with a beautiful dessert. Yes, it was the perfect evening! ♥

A Taste of Yesteryear

This guy and I were talking the other day. About the "Good Old Days." Like either of us, really lived through them. OK, we sorta did. This guy's childhood, happened during the 70s and 80s. Mine was more, the 80s and 90s.

Another thing on our minds, was finding a really cool gift, for this little guy. Something fun. Meaningful. And something that would bring a bit of the past, back to life. We're just like that. We like retro and vintage type of things. We enjoy learning about the past. So I did a quick search. And found a few of our favorites. :)



Do you remember this little guy? Being that I spent a lot of time in the mountains, I remember him well. My grandparents lived in the mountains. And I spent so much time with them! So seeing Woodsy, was very common. This guy remembers Woodsy too! As he and his family, spent a lot of time, hunting and fishing, while he was growing up. :)



The same can be said for Smokey the Bear. I remember going to the State Fair, every year, as I was growing up. And all I ever wanted to do, was go see Smokey, and eat a turkey leg! :) Smokey would also come to our school, and teach us all about Fire Safety. Yes, we saw a lot of him in the mountains too! In fact, this guy and I, went to go see his memorial. :)



And lastly, are all these books. I didn't have any of these brand new. None! I don't know if they came before I did. But that's how it happened. And oh, I just LOVE books! I've always had a ton of books. But I did have some of these books. OK, a nice collection. I don't know where they came from. Perhaps, they were from my older siblings.

Yesterday, this guy and I, we went shopping. At the most AMAZING antique, and second hand shops. Oh hello! The southwest has some amazing ones. I just wish, that we would have had more free time to shop. We found lots of pieces, for our homes. This guy added to his Vinyl Collection. I added to my own Cookbook Collection. And we picked up some gifts.

It was a day, dedicated to "Yesteryear." We "rescued" a lot of the past. And hope to bring new life to it. Including a nice stack of books, for this guy's nieces and nephew. Something that we hope, brings them many years of happiness. Yes, it was a nice trip, down "Memory Lane!" ♥

Tina's Crusty Cornbread

From what I hear, there was a time, when this guy and his grandma, used to have weekly dinners. She'd cook up a feast. Just for him. Then they'd make an evening out of catching up, and eating. I'm not sure when it stopped. Or why. I just think, it was such a nice tradition!

For almost 4 years now, My Guy and I have been dating. We don't have the weekly dinners, with Grandma. :( But we do try, and see his Grandma, at least a few times a month. If you are a regular reader, then you know, we travel a lot. A LOT! And our plate is always full! But we carve out the time.

Grandma and I rotate the cooking. If she really wants some Mexican food, I cook. If I'm dying for fried chicken, she cooks. We swap recipes. Cookbooks. And of course, food! I'll even admit it here. Sometimes when My Guy is working, I go to his Grandma's house. To have dinner. While he works! :)

A couple of weeks ago, Grandma called me. She was making a feast. And wanted me to go over. Someone was working. So I went alone. And it was such a fun night! We just caught up on things. Nothing fancy. Just 2 chattin' ladies. Oh, and I got a present. This cookbook! Which I've been putting to great use!

Fast forward to this week. We've decided to stay in the SW. Between all this work. I'm performing Thursday-Sunday. In Sin City. My Guy is also working here this weekend. But we did have a day or so, to just run off and get lost.

We did just that. At my house. It was a little funny. We "roughed" it a bit. As there is no hot water. And we can't use the kitchen sinks, or washer. But we did have 1 running bathroom. And a kitchen. So I cooked a yummy meal. A hardy beef stew. And made cornbread. From this week's Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week. Which is also from this cookbook!



Tina's Crusty Cornbread

1/4 c. butter
1 c. plain yellow cornmeal
1/2 c. stone-ground yellow cornmeal
2 t. baking powder
1 t. salt
1/2 t. pepper
8-oz. container sour cream
3/4 c. sour milk or buttermilk
2 eggs, beaten
1 c. finely shredded Cheddar cheese

Add butter to an 8"x8" baking pan or a 9" cast-iron skillet. Place in a 425-degree oven 5 to 6 minutes, rotating pan to coat the sides with butter. In a large bowl, combine remaining ingredients; stir until well combined and glossy. Pour batter into pan. Bake at 425 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes, or until top is golden. Cut into squares or wedges; serve warm. Makes 8 servings


I wasn't sure what to think. My Guy is from the South. And there are certain things, that you just don't mess with. Like fried chicken. And cornbread. But I was feeling adventurous. And I made this recipe.

OMG! It was delicious! I don't know, what exactly makes this different. But there was something different about it. It was so good! I will admit it. I ate one bowl of stew. And almost all the corn bread! By myself. Yes, I did share with this guy. And he liked it too! ♥

BLT Tuna Sandwiches

This Guy has to work tonight. And his sister and I, well we made some plans. To do some much needed catching up! I just might want to do some baby cuddling too!

I wanted to make something yummy. But something that was super quick! And portable. Since I'm cooking it at home, but taking it to K's house. By request of the new momma, she wanted something a little light. That's when I remembered this recipe. This week's Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week.



BLT Tuna Sandwiches

7-oz. pkg. white tuna, drained
3 T. bacon bits
1/4 head lettuce, shredded
1 tomato, diced
1/2 to 1 c. mayonnaise
salt and pepper to taste
8 slices multi-grain bread, toasted
Garnish: dill pickle spears

Combine tuna, bacon, lettuce and tomato with enough mayonnaise to achieve desired consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pile tuna mixture high on 4 bread slices. Top with remaining bread and serve with pickle spears. Makes 4 sandwiches.


This is what we're going to have for dinner tonight. With a little salad. And of course, some dessert! I'm thinking a trifle of some sort. I've actually made the tuna mix. But with fresh bacon. Not bacon bits. You know, the container type.

I just put the 6 slices of bacon in the oven. And when it was crispy, I took it out, and chopped it up. OK, not all 6 slices went in. 2 were for my lunch...a BLT. :) And now, we have a large bowl of this yummy tuna salad sitting in the fridge. I just think, mayo type of salads, need a little time to sit. And get yummy!

By the way, this cookbook, is on it's way to our house. I just couldn't help myself. We're always on the run. And there are so many great recipes in here. For quick meals! I can't wait to get cooking! ♥

Farmgirl Chicken & Dumplings

This has been one of those crazy weeks! And by that, I mean I'm exhausted, and I have so many things left to do. All this traveling, has finally gotten to me. On top of that, the weather has been so nutty! So Sunday, I wanted to just "Veg Out." You know what I mean?

Well, this guy had to work. Not all day. But he had to work. And My Bestie, she had some plans with this guy. For later in the evening. What was I going to do? I figured I'd make a nice dinner for My Guy and I. And that's just what I did. Well, after a long recipe search. And a little hunting around our pantry. And what did I make? This week's Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week. :)



Farmgirl Chicken & Dumplings

1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
16-oz. pkg. frozen mixed vegetables
1 onion, diced
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided
1-1/2 c. buttermilk biscuit baking mix

Combine chicken, vegetables and onion in a slow cooker. Set aside 1/2 cup plus one tablespoon broth; pour remaining broth into slow cooker. Cover and cook on high setting for 2 hours. Stir biscuit mix with reserved broth until moistened. Drop by tablespoonfuls over hot chicken and vegetables. Cover and cook on high setting for 10 minutes; uncover. Cook for an additional 20 minutes, until dumplings are done. Serves 4 to 6.


And darn, this is so yummy! And super easy to make! Ridiculously easy to be honest! When My Guy left for work, I started this little project. With my search, and prep, I had it cooking in less than an hour. Then I cuddled up with our dogs, my crochet project, and a few good movies. By the time my Mr. got home, dinner was ready. With a little peach cobbler and vanilla ice cream for dessert.

This is one of those recipes, that I'm going to make many times over. It was that good! And like I said, super easy! My Guy told me, that this is one of his favorite dinners, that I've made. And that's saying a lot! He's definitely got his favorites. Ones that he asks for, over and over. I'm thinking, this is going to be one of them. :)

I honestly can't believe how easy this was to make, and how tasty it was. This could easily be one of my "go-to" meals, when I have a long night of studying ahead. Oh, and I also bought this cookbook. I can't wait to actually get it. And see what kind of yummy recipes are inside! ♥

Be Mine Cherry Brownies

Yesterday was Valentine's Day! And around here, we enjoyed a nice and quiet holiday. Alone. It was heaven! Something we don't get to do often. But we cherished every single moment!

I did lots of cooking for My Guy. Something that I absolutely LOVE to do! And he spoiled me with lots of nice gifts. Which was incredibly sweet,and unexpected! But back to that cooking. Earlier this week, I had been looking for some good dessert recipes. My Guy likes him some dessert! And I baked for almost 2 days. :) One of the recipes that I used, was this week's Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week.



Be Mine Cherry Brownies

18.3-oz. pkg. fudge brownie mix
3 1-oz. sqs. white baking chocolate
1/3 c. whipping cream
1 c. cream cheese frosting
1/4 c. maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
1-1/2 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 c. butter
Garnish: candy sprinkles

Prepare brownie mix according to package instructions. Line a 13"x9" baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving several inches on sides for handles. Spray bottom of foil with non-stick vegetable spray; spread batter into pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 24 to 26 minutes; let cool. Lift brownies from pan; remove foil. Use a 3-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut brownies. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white baking chocolate and whipping cream for one to 2 minutes, stirring until chocolate is melted; refrigerate 30 minutes. Stir frosting and cherries into chilled chocolate mixture; spread over brownies. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and butter for one to 2 minutes, stirring until smooth. Transfer to a plastic zipping bag, snip off a tip and drizzle over brownies. Garnish with sprinkles. Makes 14.


So I can't lie! I got this cookbook as a gift. From K. She knows that I collect cookbooks. And that Gooseberry Patch is my favorite! This is one, that I've had on my list, for a little while. K actually gave it to me, right before we left. And it has been such a treat to have! I've already made 3 different desserts!

The funny thing is, I had flagged this recipe. In the cookbook. It was one of my favorites. But when I saw it this week, as the Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week, I knew that I just had to make it! Even if we, had to make a midnight run to the grocery store. Luckily, not on Valentine's Day. I realized I was missing 2 ingredients, 2 days before. :)

My Guy also told me, that he enjoyed this little treat. Though we both agreed, one is more than enough. These brownies are pretty sweet. But a nice change. I'm pretty sure that I can find a friend, or two, that would like to finish off our little stash. After all, we should share! I'm telling you, there is nothing like chocolate and cherries. And these were well worth, the midnight run to the grocery store! ♥

Pati's Mexican Table

I want to share something with you. Something that has made me so happy! I don't know where I've been. But I've missed this amazing mujer...and her show! Have you ever heard about Pati? And Pati's Mexican Table?

Well, just a few months ago, I was sick, and in bed. Not feeling well. It was a cold and rainy day. Usually, the type of days that I enjoy most. But not that day. I was miserably sick. And this man, was trying to work.

Most of the day I slept. Wishing that I was home. But coming to grips, that we were on the road. And I was sick. I napped on and off, all day, I tried to make myself comfortable. I tried to find something, that would make me a little happy.

I turned on the TV, and put it on PBS. Nothing else is really interesting on a Saturday afternoon. Because, well most people are out doing something. Not me! I've come to realize, some of the best PBS shows, come out on Saturday afternoon.

One of the many garden shows was on. Which, I don't remember. Not at all! But I do remember this. I fell asleep. Then I heard this very calming voice. With a broken accent. It reminded me of someone. I couldn't place it at the time.

That voice, it woke me up. And I watched. In amazement. The food looked delish! The show had great music, Pati had a calming voice, the food looked great, the dishes were fun, and Pati had some great stories to tell! And guess what, Pati is a true Mexican cook! Cooking authentic and traditional food. Oh, I was in heaven! Half alive, but it was bliss!



I took a little time to get better. Later that week, I went to Pati's website. And I explored PBS. Looking for the days and times, of Pati's show. Once I found our local station, I put the day and time into our TiVo. I was not going to miss another episode!

Since then, I've managed to watch all of the episodes. I've tried countless recipes. And read that, Pati will be releasing a cookbook later this year! Oh, I just can't wait! On top of all of this, Pati really does interact with you, on her website.

If you enjoy Mexican cooking, or are interested, in learning how to cook authentic Mexican food, you have to watch Pati's Mexican Table. You have to! This is such a great show. One that I hope, PBS keeps on air, for a long time. Pati is such a great cook. And really makes you want to try every single recipe! ♥

Maple Syrup Shortbread

One of my favorite things about the holidays, is baking. I just love it! And I LOVE to try new recipes. Yum! That's probably why I'm so excited about this week's Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week. A yummy shortbread cookie! By the way, this cookbook is AMAZING!



Maple Syrup Shortbread

1/2 c. plus 1 T. butter, softened and divided
1/4 c. sugar
1 c. all-purpose flour
3/4 c. brown sugar, packed
1/2 c. maple syrup
1 egg
1 t. vanilla extract
Optional: 1/2 c. chopped walnuts


Blend 1/2 cup butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add flour a little at a time, mixing continually; blend well. Pat mixture into a lightly greased 8"x8" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees until light golden, about 25 minutes; remove from oven and set aside. Stir together brown sugar, syrup and remaining butter. Add egg and vanilla; mix until smooth. Pour evenly over baked shortbread; sprinkle with walnuts. Return to oven; bake at 350 degrees until topping sets, about 20 minutes. Let cool; cut into 1-1/2"x1-1/2" squares. Store in an airtight container. Makes about 1-1/2 dozen.



Yum! I've baked 2 batches of these already. And they are so delish! I'm also making a few of the other recipes in this cookbook. Do you have any favorite cookie recipes that I should know about? I'd love to try some of your favorite recipes. ♥

BLT Pasta Salad

This is one of my favorite cookbooks. Funny how it came about. I was picking up my textbooks, at my university's bookstore. And while I was waiting in line, which took 3 hours, I found this book. Did you get that? I was in line for 3 hours! I also spent $3600 on textbooks. So the extra $15...wasn't really going to kill me. Know what I mean?

Anyway, I really like this cookbook. For a variety of reasons. Mostly because, the recipes are tasty, fast, and super easy! Our lifestyle is crazy. And fast! So we need to be able whip up dinner in now time. Without further delay, here's this week's Free Recipe of the Week from Gooseberry Patch.



BLT Pasta Salad

8-oz. pkg. elbow macaroni, cooked
4 c. tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
4 slices bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled
3 c. shredded lettuce
1/2 c. mayonnaise
1/3 c. sour cream
1 T. Dijon mustard
1 t. sugar
2 t. cider vinegar
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. pepper

Rinse macaroni in cold water; drain and pour into a serving bowl. Add next 3 ingredients; toss gently and set aside. Mix remaining ingredients together in a mixing bowl; stir well. Pour over macaroni mixture; gently toss until well coated. Serve immediately. Makes 10 servings.



Thursday night, we had a cookout. Invited a bunch of friends over. My Guy grilled. Tons of food! And I made a bunch of salads. Including this one. I just didn't rinse the macaroni. I NEVER rinse pasta! But it was so yummy! Don't forget to give it a few hours, to hangout in the refrigerator. All the flavors just melt together. And there is just something about this dressing. It was so tasty. And different. I'd definitely recommend it for your next cookout! ♥

Now Eat This! Diet Book

I want this book. No, I'm not on a diet. But you know me and cookbooks. I just LOVE cookbooks! Oh, and I am a nutrition major. So this should be pretty obvious. Do you know what I mean?

Sometime in the last 2 weeks, I caught a quick interview. About this book. And the food looked yummy. And the concept sounded good. I'm all over this book. I just need to get to the bookstore. You know, to buy this baby!

I think the concept is a good one. And who doesn't want to eat a bit healthier? I know I would like to add a few more "healthy" choices to our menu. We do a good job of balancing the yummy southern food, with the healthy stuff. So this book sounds like a win-win situation for me! ♥

Red Velvet Christmas Cookies

One thing that you should know is, I LOVE red velvet cupcakes. LOVE THEM!!! Just thinking about them, makes me want to go bake a batch. Oh. My. Goodness!

This week's Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week, just hit all the bells and whistles for me! Red Velvet Christmas Cookies! I'm sure that the people at Gooseberry Patch, know that I'm in the middle of my Christmas baking. And wanted me to add these to the mix. But oh my goodness! I might gain 20 lbs this year. Because of this recipe. :)



Red Velvet Christmas Cookies

18-1/2 oz. pkg. red velvet cake mix
1/2 c. oil
2 T. water
2 eggs
12-oz. pkg. white chocolate chips

Combine all ingredients; mix well. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto baking sheets sprayed with non-stick vegetable spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool slightly before removing from baking sheets. Makes 3 dozen.



Earlier this week, I baked these cookies. 3 batches of them! And guess what? In the matter of hours, they were history!!! And in case you were wondering, I wasn't the only one, that ate them. All my friends were so excited about these cookies. :)

It probably doesn't hurt, that most of my friends are from the "South." And red velvet is a staple there. But we ate. And ate. And ate some more! It's a good thing that we're performing this week. For 2 reasons. 1 can't bake while we're out here. And 2, I burned off a lot of calories!

But honestly, this is going to be a "staple recipe" for me. From now on! If I know you in "Real Life," you can bet your pants, that I'll be adding these, to your Christmas baskets. :) Today is Saturday. And boy, I can't wait for next week to come. When we head home. And I can bake up a few more batches! Oh, and I just might NEED this cookbook too! ♥

Baked Macaroni

I can't be the only one that LOVES baked Mac-n-Cheese. Oh no! Especially the homemade kind. Yes, my absolute favorite! So I'm very excited with this week's free recipe from Gooseberry Patch. :)

Mary's Baked Macaroni

Submitted by: Paula Weaver from Steeleville, IL

8-oz. pkg. elbow macaroni, uncooked and divided
1-1/2 c. milk
2 T. cornstarch
1/3 c. water
1-1/2 c. Colby Longhorn cheese, diced
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 c. oil
1 onion, diced
1/2 c. green pepper, diced
8-oz. can sliced mushrooms, drained
1 to 2 c. soda crackers, crushed

Measure out 1-1/2 cups macaroni, reserving the rest for another recipe. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain. Heat milk, without bringing to a boil, in a saucepan over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water; slowly stir into warmed milk. Cook just until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Combine macaroni and milk mixture with remaining ingredients except cracker crumbs. Pour into a buttered 3-quart casserole dish. Cover with cracker crumbs. Bake, covered, at 350 degrees for one hour, until golden. Serves 6 to 8.


Yummy! I sincerely want to make this for dinner tonight. With a big salad. Oh, and maybe some pork chops. Possibly a warm fruit cobbler, with ice cream. Yum! Can you tell that I'm a little hungry right now? ♥

Most Loved Recipe Collection

I recently came across these cookbooks. There are 12 in the series. Did you know that I collect cookbooks? Well, I do. And I LOVE them! All of them.

I go to thrift stores, antiques stores, bookstores, etc. in search of cookbooks. I've spent anywhere from $0.05-$30.00 on a cookbook. I have a nice size collection. And I cook recipes from all of them!

This seems like a decent deal. I'm not so sure about the "bonuses." Being that I have a HUGE bookshelves just for my cookbooks. And 12. I could use 12 more. Now to justify the cost of these beauties. ♥

Kate's Bonfire Choco-Chip Cake

This has been, one of those fun weeks! We don't get a lot of time, to spend with friends. Or at home. This happens to be one, of those unusual weeks. And we're loving it!

First of all, a bunch of my friends are in town. We're performing all week! At My Guy's club. And you know what, it's been a lot of fun. And we still have 5 more shows! :)

But we've been taking full advantage, of having friends over. And family. :) We've had lots of cookouts, races, bonfires, afternoons on the lake, and just plan old fun! One of the yummiest things we've had all week, is this cake. Which happens to be this week's Free Recipe of the Week, from Gooseberry Patch.



Kate's Bonfire Choco-Chip Cake

18-1/4 oz. pkg chocolate cake mix, 2-layer size
3-1/4 oz. pkg instant chocolate pudding mix
3/4 c. oil
8 oz. sour cream
3 eggs
1 c. water
1 c. chocolate chips
powdered sugar

In a big bowl, combine all ingredients but chocolate chips & powdered sugar. Beat on low speed 30 seconds, then on medium to high speed 2 minutes. Batter will be thick. Stir in chips by hand. Pour batter into greased & floured 10" fluted tube pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or 'til pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cake in pan for 15 minutes. Remove & cool - sift with powdered sugar.



This was such an easy recipe. I actually made 3 cakes! We had a lot of people to feed. And they were gone, in no time! A few friends were wondering about the recipe. And I promised them, that I'd post it. Because something this delicious, you just have to share!

My Guy's birthday, is later this week. And he hinted to me, that he'd like this cake. But not to tell anyone! He is just too funny. :) But this is definitely a recipe, that I'm going to add to my recipe box. It was that good! Oh, and I just ordered this cookbook. I can't wait for it to get here! ♥