1 c flour
2 Tbl. cocoa
1/4 t. salt
2 Tbl. vegetable oil
3/4 c. sugar
2 t. baking powder
1/2 c. milk
1 t. vanilla
Mix well and pour into a buttered 9x9 pan.
Sprinkle 1 c. brown sugar and 1/4 c. cocoa on top of batter.
Pour 1 1/3 c. very hot water over batter. This will make the sauce.
Bake 40 minutes in a 350 degree oven until top is dry.
Serve warm with vanilla bean ice cream. Spoon sauce from pan over cake and ice cream.
This cake is a hit around my house. My mother has been serving it ever since I was a little girl. It wasn't until recently that I figured out why. It's so simple, uses no eggs and everything is basic pantry ingredients.
3/29/09
Recession Buster Blasts #14-My Mock Filet Mignon
2 lbs. hamburger
2 cups cracker crumbs
2 cups milk
Mix well.
Pat out 3/4" thick in cake pan. Refrigerate over night. Cut into 8 patties. Wrap bacon slice around each patty, fastening with toothpick.
{edit: I've also patted it out 6" wide. Next day rolled tightly, then cut into rounds and wrapped with bacon. I cant remember how long it patted out to be or how thick I did it like this. Next time I'll take better notes so I can tell you how to do it like this}
Grill till medium well.
For more great money saving recipes, join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays and Erin at $5 Dinners.com.
2 cups cracker crumbs
2 cups milk
Mix well.
Pat out 3/4" thick in cake pan. Refrigerate over night. Cut into 8 patties. Wrap bacon slice around each patty, fastening with toothpick.
{edit: I've also patted it out 6" wide. Next day rolled tightly, then cut into rounds and wrapped with bacon. I cant remember how long it patted out to be or how thick I did it like this. Next time I'll take better notes so I can tell you how to do it like this}
Grill till medium well.
For more great money saving recipes, join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays and Erin at $5 Dinners.com.
3/28/09
Recession Buster Blasts # 13-Make Your Own Miracle Whip
1 egg (plus enough water to make 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup cooking oil
1/2 tsp dry mustard or 1 Tblsp prepared mustard
2/3 cup white sugar
2 tsp salt
1 Tblsp lemon juice
Beat very well in a bowl.
In 1 quart heavy saucepan add: 1/3 cup Clear Jell, stir in 1/2 cup vinegar until smooth. Then add 1 1/4 cup hot water. Bring to boil.
Blend into other ingredients in bowl. Beat hard until smooth.
Refrigerate.
Amish Cookin
Chrissie N. Gingerich
1/2 cup cooking oil
1/2 tsp dry mustard or 1 Tblsp prepared mustard
2/3 cup white sugar
2 tsp salt
1 Tblsp lemon juice
Beat very well in a bowl.
In 1 quart heavy saucepan add: 1/3 cup Clear Jell, stir in 1/2 cup vinegar until smooth. Then add 1 1/4 cup hot water. Bring to boil.
Blend into other ingredients in bowl. Beat hard until smooth.
Refrigerate.
Amish Cookin
Chrissie N. Gingerich
3/27/09
Recession Buster Blasts #12-BCT Crescents
Picture courtesy of Kraft Foods.Make 8 breakfast sandwiches for the price of 1! Here's another crescent roll recipe to add to your collection. They're quick & easy.
{This Bacon, Cheese, & Tomato Crescents recipe comes from Wal-Mart's Simple Mealtime Ideas by Kraft that was being handed out last August during the big Kraft promotion.}
1 8oz can refrigerated crescent rolls (or make your own dough... RECIPE)
4oz Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
1/4 cup finely chopped tomatoes
1/4 cup finely chopped red peppers
4 slices crisp bacon, drained well & chopped
Heat oven to 375.
Separate rolls and spread with cream cheese.
Top evenly with remaining ingredients.
Roll up, starting at short side of triangle. Place point sides down on baking sheet.
Bake 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Serve warm.
We all love cooking with crescent rolls, don't we? If you have a yummy crescent roll recipe, please share it with us.
You can also share recipes with everyone over at Gayle's Grocery Cart Challenge Recipe Swap.
3/26/09
Recession Buster Blasts #11-Make Your Own Green Window Cleaner
I've had two cleaning jobs in the last 20 years. One was for a company cleaning homes and was for a motel. At both places you use TONS of window cleaner. Both employers had us "maids" mix our own window/mirror cleaner every morning.
Here's the "commercial" formula they both used.
1/4 cup Rubbing Alcohol
1/2 cup Vinegar
1 1/4 cups water
Place in a 16 oz spray bottle.
For streak free mirrors and windows, use newspapers to wipe.
So if commercial places use this to save money, who am I to disagree. I also use it in my home. I like that the smell doesnt bother me like Windex does.
Do you have a tip for streak free windows and mirrors? I would love to hear them.
3/25/09
Recession Buster Blasts #10-Never Buy Dishwasher Detergent Again!
Make your own homemade dishwasher detergent. It's quick. It's easy. And it's cheap! For each load, mix 2 tablespoons baking soda with 2 tablespoons borax. Place in main wash cup as like always.
ETA: I've found that as long as I add vinegar to the rinse dispenser or a regular rinse agent, this cleans my dishes wonderfully.
ETA: I've found that as long as I add vinegar to the rinse dispenser or a regular rinse agent, this cleans my dishes wonderfully.
Recession Buster Blasts #9-FREE Red Box Movie Rental
Here's your free Redbox code for today: MMM325
It is good today only (3/25/09) at any Redbox location and can only be used once per credit/debit card.
It is good today only (3/25/09) at any Redbox location and can only be used once per credit/debit card.
3/24/09
Recession Buster Blasts #8-Homemade Ranch Dressing
Here's a recipe I posted January 2008 but thought it was worthy of being included in my Recession Buster Blasts series.
I found it in my grandmother's recipe collection. She had clipped it from a newspaper. The clipping is over 20 years old although if you were to google it, you'll find it all over the internet at several different sites and several different versions. When I have dill I add it but this is the basic version using ingredients most well stocked pantries have on hand. It's a really close version that I've been able to get my son to eat.
Faux Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Mix
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons garlic powder
3 Tablespoons onion flakes
2 teaspoons pepper
2 teaspoons sugar
2 and 1/2 teaspoons paprika
2 and 1/2 teaspoons parsley flakes
Mix and store in a small Ziplock bag.
For recipes calling for a packet of Ranch Dressing: Two Tablespoons = one seasoning packet
To make dressing, combine 1 tablespoon mix with 1 cup mayonnaise and 1 cup buttermilk. Blend well. Best if refrigerated for at least an hour before serving.
To make dip, combine 1 tablespoon mix with 1 cup sour cream. Blend well. Refrigerate 1 hour before serving with vegetables.
I'm always leary of trying recipes found at the bigger sites on the internet if there are no reviews. If you have a good recipe for Ranch Dressing, I would like to try it.
I found it in my grandmother's recipe collection. She had clipped it from a newspaper. The clipping is over 20 years old although if you were to google it, you'll find it all over the internet at several different sites and several different versions. When I have dill I add it but this is the basic version using ingredients most well stocked pantries have on hand. It's a really close version that I've been able to get my son to eat.
Faux Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Mix
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons garlic powder
3 Tablespoons onion flakes
2 teaspoons pepper
2 teaspoons sugar
2 and 1/2 teaspoons paprika
2 and 1/2 teaspoons parsley flakes
Mix and store in a small Ziplock bag.
For recipes calling for a packet of Ranch Dressing: Two Tablespoons = one seasoning packet
To make dressing, combine 1 tablespoon mix with 1 cup mayonnaise and 1 cup buttermilk. Blend well. Best if refrigerated for at least an hour before serving.
To make dip, combine 1 tablespoon mix with 1 cup sour cream. Blend well. Refrigerate 1 hour before serving with vegetables.
I'm always leary of trying recipes found at the bigger sites on the internet if there are no reviews. If you have a good recipe for Ranch Dressing, I would like to try it.
Recession Buster Blasts #7-Homemade Bacon & Onion Dressing/Dip
Dips and Dressings are easy and fun to make yourself but expensive to buy in the stores and loaded with preservatives.
1/2 cup mayonnaise or Miracle Whip
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons Oscar Mayer real bacon bits
2 tablespoons chopped green onion
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise until smooth and creamy. Add buttermilk and whisk until creamy. Add remaining ingredients and whisk until blended.
Cover and chill for 1 hour for flavors to meld.
Yields approx. 1 cup
Serve over a lettuce wedge, mixed greens or try my favorite... over sliced tomatoes and cucumbers. It's also great for dipping raw veggies.
Recession Buster Blasts #6-Make Your Own BBQ Sauce
1 small finely chopped onion
4 garlic cloves minced
3/4 cup good quality root beer
2 cups ketchup
3/4 cups molasses
1/3 cup white vinegar
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/8 cup liquid smoke
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tsp hot sauce
Combine onion, garlic and root beer in heavy sauce pan; cook over medium-high heat 5 minutes until onion is tender.
Add remaining ingredients. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium; cook 20 minutes stirring occasionally.
Great on pulled pork and chicken!
Makes approx. 3 cups
4 garlic cloves minced
3/4 cup good quality root beer
2 cups ketchup
3/4 cups molasses
1/3 cup white vinegar
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/8 cup liquid smoke
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tsp hot sauce
Combine onion, garlic and root beer in heavy sauce pan; cook over medium-high heat 5 minutes until onion is tender.
Add remaining ingredients. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium; cook 20 minutes stirring occasionally.
Great on pulled pork and chicken!
Makes approx. 3 cups
3/23/09
Recession Buster Blasts #5-Save Those Cereal Bags!
1. Use a rubber band to secure them over bowls for storing food in the fridge.
2. Use a rubber band to secure them over bowls for when you’re reheating food in the microwave.
3. Use the cereal bags to shake & coat chicken or pork chops.
4. Use to crush nuts, crackers, and other snack foods using a #10 vegetable can or if you have a rolling pin.
5. Drop homemade chocolate candies and pretzels on to harden and cool.
6. Drop no-bake cookies on to set up and cool.
7. Place sandwiches or other foods in the bag to pack your lunch instead of using sandwich bags.
8. Use two bags to roll out pie dough. One on top and one on bottom. Sprinkle lightly with flour.
9. Use one to roll out cookie dough on top of.
10. Use in between hamburgers to separate when freezing.
11. Use to crush hard candies such as candy canes with your rolling pin or hammer.
12. Use to divide layers of fudge, cookies and candies.
When we finish a bag of cereal, I take out the liner, dump the crumbs, fold the bag and place in an empty Ziploc bag box to store in a drawer with my other wraps and bags.
Do you have any uses for cereal bags to share in comments? I would love to hear them.
2. Use a rubber band to secure them over bowls for when you’re reheating food in the microwave.
3. Use the cereal bags to shake & coat chicken or pork chops.
4. Use to crush nuts, crackers, and other snack foods using a #10 vegetable can or if you have a rolling pin.
5. Drop homemade chocolate candies and pretzels on to harden and cool.
6. Drop no-bake cookies on to set up and cool.
7. Place sandwiches or other foods in the bag to pack your lunch instead of using sandwich bags.
8. Use two bags to roll out pie dough. One on top and one on bottom. Sprinkle lightly with flour.
9. Use one to roll out cookie dough on top of.
10. Use in between hamburgers to separate when freezing.
11. Use to crush hard candies such as candy canes with your rolling pin or hammer.
12. Use to divide layers of fudge, cookies and candies.
When we finish a bag of cereal, I take out the liner, dump the crumbs, fold the bag and place in an empty Ziploc bag box to store in a drawer with my other wraps and bags.
Do you have any uses for cereal bags to share in comments? I would love to hear them.
Recession Buster Blasts #4- Make Your Own Microwave Popcorn
Home-made Microwave Popcorn... a healthier more frugal way.
1/4 cup popping corn (I buy the cheapest brand)
brown paper bag (I save my brown bags they put my ice cream in, they're about the same size as a lunch bag, but heavier weight)
seasonings
I spray my popcorn lightly with vegetable oil and place in the paper bag. Some like it air popped and do not spray the popcorn, some spray with butter spray or PAM, and some just toss the kernels with a little vegetable oil.
Fold the top of the bag over three or four times, creasing firmly. Notch the top of the bag to keep it folded. Place the bag in the microwave and microwave on high for 3 minutes, or until there are about 5 seconds between pops. .
Wahla! You have a bag of microwave popcorn for less than a quarter!
Add salt or other seasonings (garlic powder, parmesan cheese, etc) to bag and shake to coat before eating. I melt a little butter on mine and salt.
1/4 cup popping corn (I buy the cheapest brand)
brown paper bag (I save my brown bags they put my ice cream in, they're about the same size as a lunch bag, but heavier weight)
seasonings
I spray my popcorn lightly with vegetable oil and place in the paper bag. Some like it air popped and do not spray the popcorn, some spray with butter spray or PAM, and some just toss the kernels with a little vegetable oil.
Fold the top of the bag over three or four times, creasing firmly. Notch the top of the bag to keep it folded. Place the bag in the microwave and microwave on high for 3 minutes, or until there are about 5 seconds between pops. .
Wahla! You have a bag of microwave popcorn for less than a quarter!
Add salt or other seasonings (garlic powder, parmesan cheese, etc) to bag and shake to coat before eating. I melt a little butter on mine and salt.
Recession Buster Blasts #3- Free Entertainment
Have you been to a movie theatre lately? Good grief, ticket prices are out of this world. And even if you go to a discounted matinee, don't head to the concession stand! $8 bucks for a large popcorn and drink? Give me a break!
We took boywonder to a matinee a few weeks ago. Between the three tickets and concession stand I still forked out $30.
Here's my Recession Buster Tip for entertainment.
Have movie nights at home: We visit the Redbox machines at McDonalds and Walmart for $1 per movie per night. Pop up a bag of popcorn (.25), pour up a .88 2 litre bottle of pop (Hy-vee price last week) and grab a box of movie theatre candy free from Wal-greens or CVS. You have a movie for 1-4 people for less than the cost of one matinee ticket!
On Mondays Redbox gives you the movie FREE. Here's today's Monday-only promo code for a free one-day rental from Redbox…
HG7W56
Expires tonight (Mon, Mar 23) at midnight CST
We took boywonder to a matinee a few weeks ago. Between the three tickets and concession stand I still forked out $30.
Here's my Recession Buster Tip for entertainment.
Have movie nights at home: We visit the Redbox machines at McDonalds and Walmart for $1 per movie per night. Pop up a bag of popcorn (.25), pour up a .88 2 litre bottle of pop (Hy-vee price last week) and grab a box of movie theatre candy free from Wal-greens or CVS. You have a movie for 1-4 people for less than the cost of one matinee ticket!
On Mondays Redbox gives you the movie FREE. Here's today's Monday-only promo code for a free one-day rental from Redbox…
HG7W56
Expires tonight (Mon, Mar 23) at midnight CST
3/22/09
Recession Buster Blasts #2: Make Your Own Pam Spray
This faux Pam Spray Pan Release is one great way to use what you have and pinch your pennies. And it's more eco-friendly (no fumes) and frugal with no can to dispose of.
This will not leave burnt on black residue on the edges of your pans either. (I hate that! how about you?) The shelf life is great... it will keep forever in your cupboard.
1/2 cup corn oil or canola oil or vegetable oil
1/2 cup vegetable shortening, room temperature (Crisco shortening is good)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
Using an electric mixer beat until mixture has multiplied in volume, and resembles marshmallow cream. yields: 1 1/2 cups
Place in a storage container, and store on the counter, or in a cupboard.
In hot weather, it may be refrigerated, but remember to take it out of the fridge, as it should be room temperature for best results.
The mixture tends to separate slightly upon sitting so mix before using, then brush pans using a pastry brush or a clean paper towel.
This will not leave burnt on black residue on the edges of your pans either. (I hate that! how about you?) The shelf life is great... it will keep forever in your cupboard.
1/2 cup corn oil or canola oil or vegetable oil
1/2 cup vegetable shortening, room temperature (Crisco shortening is good)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
Using an electric mixer beat until mixture has multiplied in volume, and resembles marshmallow cream. yields: 1 1/2 cups
Place in a storage container, and store on the counter, or in a cupboard.
In hot weather, it may be refrigerated, but remember to take it out of the fridge, as it should be room temperature for best results.
The mixture tends to separate slightly upon sitting so mix before using, then brush pans using a pastry brush or a clean paper towel.
Recession Busters Blasts
I'm launching a Recession Busters campaign starting today to share all types of recession buster tips and recession buster recipes. Did you see the Recession Buster Season Salt recipe I posted earlier?
These daily RB blasts will be short, sweet and to the point. Tips that can be read in just a couple minutes while taking a quick coffee break.
So many people have found themselves directly affected by the current economy. The purpose of these blasts will be to get you to thinking about ways you can save your money, stay on budget, and cut back on spending if your situation needs it. One great thought leads to another and all those little tips and tricks will start to add up for you.
By following this campaign, I hope you find some tips that will work for you and your family. And as always, I hope you will take a minute and leave me a comment to let me know if you use the tips, if they work for you and how you made them work!
These daily RB blasts will be short, sweet and to the point. Tips that can be read in just a couple minutes while taking a quick coffee break.
So many people have found themselves directly affected by the current economy. The purpose of these blasts will be to get you to thinking about ways you can save your money, stay on budget, and cut back on spending if your situation needs it. One great thought leads to another and all those little tips and tricks will start to add up for you.
By following this campaign, I hope you find some tips that will work for you and your family. And as always, I hope you will take a minute and leave me a comment to let me know if you use the tips, if they work for you and how you made them work!
3/21/09
Buying Bananas When They Are On Sale
Don't be afraid to stock up on bananas when they go on sale at rock bottom prices. They can be stored several ways for several different uses. Here are some tips:
Snack Time: Slice ripe bananas and spread them out on a cookie sheet. Place in the freezer for a couple of hours. When they are frozen, put them in a plastic container. When it's snack time, remove the desired amount. They thaw in just a few minutes, but are yummy frozen also. Children love these for a quick, healthy & easy snack. For other frozen banana treats such as banana pops, check out an older post of mine for recipes: Frozen Yummy Banana Treats.
Another one of our favorite banana snacks is Banana's & Cream. I rarely have cream on hand so I just slice up bananas in a bowl, sprinkle with sugar, and pour whole milk over them. Mmmmm good!
Banana Puree: Take overly ripe bananas, remove the peels and process in a food processor or blender until whipped. The longer you process, the lighter and fluffier they get.
If you like making banana bread, then freeze 1 1/4 cups in each ziplock bag. Most banana bread recipes use 3 large bananas or 1 1/4 cup puree. Then you will always be ready to make banana bread, just pull out a baggy to thaw. They thaw quickly, or they can be microwaved for 20-30 seconds.
The banana fluff also makes a yummy treat straight from the freezer!
Dried Chips: No fancy equipment is needed to dry bananas, you simply use your oven. Bananas are sliced paper thin to dry. For oven drying instructions visit Fort Valley State University's site. Just click here
Grilled Treats: We cook alot outside once the weather warms up. Grilling bananas is easy and fun. For the adult crowd, Banana Fosters are always a hit. For the kids we make Virgin Banana Fosters (or grilled brown sugar bananas). For the recipes visit HERE.
I'm always looking for more creative ideas using, preserving and serving bananas. Do you have a favorite banana treat to share? Come on, let me hear them!
Snack Time: Slice ripe bananas and spread them out on a cookie sheet. Place in the freezer for a couple of hours. When they are frozen, put them in a plastic container. When it's snack time, remove the desired amount. They thaw in just a few minutes, but are yummy frozen also. Children love these for a quick, healthy & easy snack. For other frozen banana treats such as banana pops, check out an older post of mine for recipes: Frozen Yummy Banana Treats.
Another one of our favorite banana snacks is Banana's & Cream. I rarely have cream on hand so I just slice up bananas in a bowl, sprinkle with sugar, and pour whole milk over them. Mmmmm good!
Banana Puree: Take overly ripe bananas, remove the peels and process in a food processor or blender until whipped. The longer you process, the lighter and fluffier they get.
If you like making banana bread, then freeze 1 1/4 cups in each ziplock bag. Most banana bread recipes use 3 large bananas or 1 1/4 cup puree. Then you will always be ready to make banana bread, just pull out a baggy to thaw. They thaw quickly, or they can be microwaved for 20-30 seconds.
The banana fluff also makes a yummy treat straight from the freezer!
Dried Chips: No fancy equipment is needed to dry bananas, you simply use your oven. Bananas are sliced paper thin to dry. For oven drying instructions visit Fort Valley State University's site. Just click here
Grilled Treats: We cook alot outside once the weather warms up. Grilling bananas is easy and fun. For the adult crowd, Banana Fosters are always a hit. For the kids we make Virgin Banana Fosters (or grilled brown sugar bananas). For the recipes visit HERE.
I'm always looking for more creative ideas using, preserving and serving bananas. Do you have a favorite banana treat to share? Come on, let me hear them!
3/20/09
Printable Online Progresso Soup Coupons
Save $3 on your Progresso Soup purchases. Go here and print $1 off 2 and $2 off 4 coupons.
Their traditional chicken noodle is my absolute favorite!
Their traditional chicken noodle is my absolute favorite!
Recession Buster Blast #1: Make your Own Season Salt
Tip: I save my spice bottles for when I want to make my own spice mixes.
2 tablespoons salt
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cornstarch
Combine all ingredients well.
At my local grocery store this sells for $3. I figure making my own saves me at least $2.
For more great money saving recipes join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays.
2 tablespoons salt
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cornstarch
Combine all ingredients well.
At my local grocery store this sells for $3. I figure making my own saves me at least $2.
For more great money saving recipes join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays.
Organic Online Printable Coupons
Did you know that Organic Valley offers online printable coupons from their site?
- $1.00 off any one Organic Valley Soy.
- $1.00 off any one Half Gallon or Gallon of Organic Valley Milk.
- $1.00 off any one 4oz., 6oz. or 8oz. Organic Valley Cheese.
- $1.00 off any one Half Gallon of Organic Valley Lactose Free Milk.
- $1.00 off any 16oz. or 8oz. Organic Valley Butter.
- $1.00 off any Organic Valley Cottage Cheese.
- $1.00 off any Organic Valley Single Serve 4-Pack.
3/19/09
Chicken Enchilada Bake
8 Flour Tortillas
1/2 c sour cream
2 T. Butter
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 c chopped onion
1 1/2 c cubed cooked chicken
1 garlic clove, minced
1 c shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 c sliced black olives
1/4 c milk
1 4oz can diced green chillies, drained
In medium saucepan, melt butter; saute onion & garlic in butter. Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 of the olives with all the green chillies, sour cream & soup; mix well. Remove 3/4 cup of this and set aside. Add to remaining sauce in pan chicken & 1/2 c cheese; stir well.
Warm tortillas. Fill tortillas with chicken mixture & roll up. Place seam side down in ungreased 9 x 12 pan. In small bowl combine reserved soup mixture & milk; spoon over tortillas.
Bake 30-35 minutes until bubbly. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and black olives right before serving.
For more great recipes be sure to join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays.
Another great place to share and swap recipes is over at The Grocery Cart Challenge, be sure to share a recipe with Gayle as well.
LE2
1/2 c sour cream
2 T. Butter
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 c chopped onion
1 1/2 c cubed cooked chicken
1 garlic clove, minced
1 c shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 c sliced black olives
1/4 c milk
1 4oz can diced green chillies, drained
In medium saucepan, melt butter; saute onion & garlic in butter. Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 of the olives with all the green chillies, sour cream & soup; mix well. Remove 3/4 cup of this and set aside. Add to remaining sauce in pan chicken & 1/2 c cheese; stir well.
Warm tortillas. Fill tortillas with chicken mixture & roll up. Place seam side down in ungreased 9 x 12 pan. In small bowl combine reserved soup mixture & milk; spoon over tortillas.
Bake 30-35 minutes until bubbly. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and black olives right before serving.
For more great recipes be sure to join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays.Another great place to share and swap recipes is over at The Grocery Cart Challenge, be sure to share a recipe with Gayle as well.
LE2
3/18/09
Broccoli Corn Bake
Combine:
1 16oz can cream style corn
1 10oz frozen broccoli, cooked & drained
1 egg, beaten
12 coarse crumbled crackers (1/2 cup)
1 Tablespoon minced onion
2 Tablespoons melted butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Pour into 1 quart casserole dish.
Combine:
6 coarse crumbled crackers (1/4 cup)
1 Tablespoon melted butter
Sprinkle on top of broccoli mix in dish.
Bake uncovered at 350 for 30-35 minutes.
LE2
1 16oz can cream style corn
1 10oz frozen broccoli, cooked & drained
1 egg, beaten
12 coarse crumbled crackers (1/2 cup)
1 Tablespoon minced onion
2 Tablespoons melted butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Pour into 1 quart casserole dish.
Combine:
6 coarse crumbled crackers (1/4 cup)
1 Tablespoon melted butter
Sprinkle on top of broccoli mix in dish.
Bake uncovered at 350 for 30-35 minutes.
LE2
3/16/09
Monday Meal Plan 3/16-3/22
$5 Dinners is hosting Laura's Meal Plan this week. Over 350 ladies have already participated this morning.
Monday Oven Fried Chicken Breast, Potatoes
Tuesday St. Pattys Day Crockpot corn beef, cabbage, red potatoes
Wednesday Smothered Pork Steak, Potatoes, Salad
Thursday Cowboy Casserole
Friday Leftovers
Saturday Ham, Broccoli Corn Bake (recipe to come!)
Sunday Smoked Pork Roast, BBQ Beans, grilled potatoes
3/15/09
Cowboy Casserole
1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, sliced thin
1 can red kidney beans, undrained
1 onion, sliced
1 tsp. salt
1 cup catsup (or tomato sauce)
Line 9 x 13 baking pan with thinly sliced potatoes, cover with beans & raw beef. Sprinkle beef with salt. Cover with sliced onion, then catsup or tomato sauce. Bake at 350 covered for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake additional 15 minutes.
For more great recipes be sure to join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays.
Each week Sandy will choose a recipe to receive her "Gem of the Week". She chose my Quick Ham & Rice recipe for this week! Thank you so much Sandy! So go on over to Sandy's sight and share a recipe, you might be chosen for her next Gem of the Week award.
LE2
4 medium potatoes, sliced thin
1 can red kidney beans, undrained
1 onion, sliced
1 tsp. salt
1 cup catsup (or tomato sauce)
Line 9 x 13 baking pan with thinly sliced potatoes, cover with beans & raw beef. Sprinkle beef with salt. Cover with sliced onion, then catsup or tomato sauce. Bake at 350 covered for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake additional 15 minutes.
For more great recipes be sure to join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays. Each week Sandy will choose a recipe to receive her "Gem of the Week". She chose my Quick Ham & Rice recipe for this week! Thank you so much Sandy! So go on over to Sandy's sight and share a recipe, you might be chosen for her next Gem of the Week award.
LE2
Giveaway: Olive Juice Bags...1 bag every 6 months
Olive Juice Bags is a manufacturer of funky affordable fabric bags, Made in the USA.
Olive Juice Bags is holding a Bag-of-the-Month giveaway for the next 6 months and you can help spread the word.
Olive Juice Bags are eco-friendly because the company has found a way to utilize overrun fabric and keep it out from being thrown away. Repurposing the fabric into a functional and fashionable product means less waste in the landfills.
Because of this, many of the bags are unique: five-of-a kind, two-of-a kind or even one-of-a kind. If you see an Olive Juice Bag you like, snag it quickly because you may not see the same bag ever again.
Olive Juice Bags is also a socially conscious company that supports real-wage jobs. Local families benefit from jobs provided by companies that manufacture in the US-- and Olive Juice Bags is one of them.
Check out the different varieties of Olive Juice Bags at www.olivejuicebags.com.
"How do I enter?" you ask? Blog about it! Then email them the url to your post. Here's their instructions:
"Enter now through August 31st, 2009 by simply blogging about our contest on your personal or professional blog. For each separate blog entry you will receive an entry into our contest. just send us the link to each of your postings (maximum one per day) at olivejuicebags@comcast.net and you’ll be entered for a chance to win the featured olive juice bag-of-the-month. six total winners will be chosen, one per month, and will be contacted by e-mail. a list of winners will be available in our monthly newletter."
Olive Juice Bags is holding a Bag-of-the-Month giveaway for the next 6 months and you can help spread the word.
Olive Juice Bags are eco-friendly because the company has found a way to utilize overrun fabric and keep it out from being thrown away. Repurposing the fabric into a functional and fashionable product means less waste in the landfills.
Because of this, many of the bags are unique: five-of-a kind, two-of-a kind or even one-of-a kind. If you see an Olive Juice Bag you like, snag it quickly because you may not see the same bag ever again.
Olive Juice Bags is also a socially conscious company that supports real-wage jobs. Local families benefit from jobs provided by companies that manufacture in the US-- and Olive Juice Bags is one of them.
Check out the different varieties of Olive Juice Bags at www.olivejuicebags.com.
"How do I enter?" you ask? Blog about it! Then email them the url to your post. Here's their instructions:
"Enter now through August 31st, 2009 by simply blogging about our contest on your personal or professional blog. For each separate blog entry you will receive an entry into our contest. just send us the link to each of your postings (maximum one per day) at olivejuicebags@comcast.net and you’ll be entered for a chance to win the featured olive juice bag-of-the-month. six total winners will be chosen, one per month, and will be contacted by e-mail. a list of winners will be available in our monthly newletter."
3/13/09
Saving Money Using Rain Barrels
It's garden planning time again!
This year I plan on planting an even larger vegetable garden and I'm still adding to my flower beds.
With the expansions will come more watering. Watering everything during a dry season out here can become expensive.
I still only had one rain barrel by my vegetable garden last year and plan to have a couple of more to water my flower gardens.
Adding a rain barrel is an inexpensive and effortless way to capture mineral- and chlorine-free water for watering lawns, yards, and gardens, as well as washing cars or rinsing windows. By harnessing what's literally raining from the sky, you'll not only notice a marked dip in water costs, but also a reduction in stormwater runoff, which in turn helps prevent erosion and flooding. Pop a screen on top of your barrel to keep out insects, debris, and bird missiles, and make frequent use of your water supply to keep it moving and aerated.
Rain barrels can collect water from roof gutters and downspouts, and some come with hose attachments for low-pressure watering in the yard and gardens. More and more counties and watershed districts are encouraging homeowners to use rain barrels because they collect roof runoff and store it for later use in lawn and garden watering, thus preventing stormwater runoff and reducing the amount of ground water used for lawn care.
How does it work? You can purchase a rain barrel at many major lawn and garden centers; many on-line retailers also carry a variety of rain barrels. You can expect to pay $80-150 for a 50-75 gallon barrel and accessories. Not very frugal in my opinion. Or you can build your own rain barrel out of a 55 gallon drum or trashcan much cheaper. You can also link rain barrels in series to store even more rainwater.
How much rain does it take to fill my rain barrel? Not as much as you think. It is easy to calculate how much rainwater your roof generates. The constant to remember is: 1" of rain will produce 625 gallons of runoff from a 1000 square foot roof, or 625 gallons per 1000 square feet.
Say you want to install a rain barrel to catch runoff from half the roof of your double garage. Let's say that eave and downspout catches runoff from 250 square feet of roof. Multiply 250 square feet by 625 gallons and divide by 1000 = 156.25 gallons produced from a 1" rain. A 1/2" rain will fill up your 75 gallon rain barrel.
That is 75 gallons of FREE water in one barrel after a moderate rain fall.
One reason why I didnt add the two rain barrels last year was I was wanting free barrels and never got around to making my contact. I know now where to get them so I'm excited to be moving forward with these plans. If you need barrels call restaurants, car washes and schools and see if I you can score some free barrels.
Do any of you utilize rain barrels? I would love to hear from you and see any pictures you have posted.
This year I plan on planting an even larger vegetable garden and I'm still adding to my flower beds.
With the expansions will come more watering. Watering everything during a dry season out here can become expensive.
I still only had one rain barrel by my vegetable garden last year and plan to have a couple of more to water my flower gardens.
Adding a rain barrel is an inexpensive and effortless way to capture mineral- and chlorine-free water for watering lawns, yards, and gardens, as well as washing cars or rinsing windows. By harnessing what's literally raining from the sky, you'll not only notice a marked dip in water costs, but also a reduction in stormwater runoff, which in turn helps prevent erosion and flooding. Pop a screen on top of your barrel to keep out insects, debris, and bird missiles, and make frequent use of your water supply to keep it moving and aerated.
Rain barrels can collect water from roof gutters and downspouts, and some come with hose attachments for low-pressure watering in the yard and gardens. More and more counties and watershed districts are encouraging homeowners to use rain barrels because they collect roof runoff and store it for later use in lawn and garden watering, thus preventing stormwater runoff and reducing the amount of ground water used for lawn care.
How does it work? You can purchase a rain barrel at many major lawn and garden centers; many on-line retailers also carry a variety of rain barrels. You can expect to pay $80-150 for a 50-75 gallon barrel and accessories. Not very frugal in my opinion. Or you can build your own rain barrel out of a 55 gallon drum or trashcan much cheaper. You can also link rain barrels in series to store even more rainwater.
How much rain does it take to fill my rain barrel? Not as much as you think. It is easy to calculate how much rainwater your roof generates. The constant to remember is: 1" of rain will produce 625 gallons of runoff from a 1000 square foot roof, or 625 gallons per 1000 square feet.
Say you want to install a rain barrel to catch runoff from half the roof of your double garage. Let's say that eave and downspout catches runoff from 250 square feet of roof. Multiply 250 square feet by 625 gallons and divide by 1000 = 156.25 gallons produced from a 1" rain. A 1/2" rain will fill up your 75 gallon rain barrel.
That is 75 gallons of FREE water in one barrel after a moderate rain fall.
One reason why I didnt add the two rain barrels last year was I was wanting free barrels and never got around to making my contact. I know now where to get them so I'm excited to be moving forward with these plans. If you need barrels call restaurants, car washes and schools and see if I you can score some free barrels.
Do any of you utilize rain barrels? I would love to hear from you and see any pictures you have posted.
Chocolate Coke Cake
Bring to a boil: 1 cup coke, 2 sticks of butter, 3 tablespoons cocoa
Mix: 2 cups flour & 2 c sugar
Add to boiled mix
Add: 1/2 cup buttermilk, 2 beaten eggs, 1 teaspoon baking soda & 1 teaspoon vanilla
Pour into greased/floured 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 for 30-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean. My oven it's closer to 23 minutes.
To Ice:
Bring to a boil: 1 stick of butter, 3 tablespoons of cocoa and 6 tablespoons coke
Add: 1 pound box of powdered sugar and 1 cup of nuts.
Pour over hot cake.
Mix: 2 cups flour & 2 c sugar
Add to boiled mix
Add: 1/2 cup buttermilk, 2 beaten eggs, 1 teaspoon baking soda & 1 teaspoon vanilla
Pour into greased/floured 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 for 30-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean. My oven it's closer to 23 minutes.
To Ice:
Bring to a boil: 1 stick of butter, 3 tablespoons of cocoa and 6 tablespoons coke
Add: 1 pound box of powdered sugar and 1 cup of nuts.
Pour over hot cake.
3/12/09
How to get your Wal-Mart, Kmart & Target stores to accept Internet printed coupons
As the days go by and the economy worsens there is more and more coupon fraud going around. A lot of stores have corporate policies that state they accept internet printed coupons, but the store managers refuse, fearing the coupons will be denied due to fraud.
I've read so many of you are having problems from Wal-Mart, Target and Kmart here lately and wanted to share a tip to try.
Save your cereal boxes, cut them apart, you can get 2 sheets of cardstock from them. Use the inside that is blank and print the coupons on those. Make sure that you set your printer for cardstock, not paper so that it won't get stuck. DO NOT USE IN A LASERJET PRINTER. DO NOT USE BOXES IF THERE IS A CLEAR COATING ON THE CARDBOARD! The heat will melt the plastic coating and gum up your printer.
Most cashiers are use to seeing coupons being printed on box tops and the inside of boxes and won't even think twice about accepting them. They also expect them to be in black ink only so you save there too.
Even if you don't have problems, it is a great way to recycle! I use the cardboard from my soda cartons too, just cut to size.
This sheet of coupons was printed on the back of a Honey Bunches Of Oats box. My printer settings does not list cardstock but has a greeting card option that I chose. I also changed the paper size to A4. Worked like a charm!
I originally posted this tip back in October. I personally have not had any more problems with clerks refusing the coupon. They don't even look twice at it.
If you have a tip for getting stores to accept internet coupons more eagerly, please leave a comment.
~Thank you to Xanman for sharing this tip on SlickDeals.~
I've read so many of you are having problems from Wal-Mart, Target and Kmart here lately and wanted to share a tip to try.
Save your cereal boxes, cut them apart, you can get 2 sheets of cardstock from them. Use the inside that is blank and print the coupons on those. Make sure that you set your printer for cardstock, not paper so that it won't get stuck. DO NOT USE IN A LASERJET PRINTER. DO NOT USE BOXES IF THERE IS A CLEAR COATING ON THE CARDBOARD! The heat will melt the plastic coating and gum up your printer.
Most cashiers are use to seeing coupons being printed on box tops and the inside of boxes and won't even think twice about accepting them. They also expect them to be in black ink only so you save there too.
Even if you don't have problems, it is a great way to recycle! I use the cardboard from my soda cartons too, just cut to size.
This sheet of coupons was printed on the back of a Honey Bunches Of Oats box. My printer settings does not list cardstock but has a greeting card option that I chose. I also changed the paper size to A4. Worked like a charm!
I originally posted this tip back in October. I personally have not had any more problems with clerks refusing the coupon. They don't even look twice at it.
If you have a tip for getting stores to accept internet coupons more eagerly, please leave a comment.
~Thank you to Xanman for sharing this tip on SlickDeals.~
Turkey Taco Bake
2 cups crushed corn chips
1 can refried beans
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided into 2) 1 cup portions
1 cup salsa
2 cups shredded turkey (1 lb fried ground turkey can be substituted)
1 tsp taco seasoning
1 sliced green onion
1 chopped medium tomato
Place corn chips in greased 2 1/2 qt casserole dish.
In separate bowl, heat refried beans in microwave, then stir in salsa and cheese. Spread over chips.
In bowl used for beans, toss turkey and taco seasoning, sprinkle over beans.
Top with remaining cheese. Sprinkle with onions.
Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until cheese melts. Sprinkle with tomato.
Ground turkey is often on sale and is a healthy alternative making this a frugal as well as zippy, 30 minutes or less recipe. If you cook turkey breasts often in your crockpot such as I do, then here's your second meal from that! Turkey isn't just for Thanksgiving any more. Enjoy!
LE2
LE4
1 can refried beans
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided into 2) 1 cup portions
1 cup salsa
2 cups shredded turkey (1 lb fried ground turkey can be substituted)
1 tsp taco seasoning
1 sliced green onion
1 chopped medium tomato
Place corn chips in greased 2 1/2 qt casserole dish.
In separate bowl, heat refried beans in microwave, then stir in salsa and cheese. Spread over chips.
In bowl used for beans, toss turkey and taco seasoning, sprinkle over beans.
Top with remaining cheese. Sprinkle with onions.
Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until cheese melts. Sprinkle with tomato.
Ground turkey is often on sale and is a healthy alternative making this a frugal as well as zippy, 30 minutes or less recipe. If you cook turkey breasts often in your crockpot such as I do, then here's your second meal from that! Turkey isn't just for Thanksgiving any more. Enjoy!
LE2
LE4
3/11/09
Pork with Spicy Cranberry Sauce
This is a zippy, 30 minutes or less favorite of mine. Hope you enjoy as much as we do.
4 thick pork chops
3 tablespoons butter
1 med onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup red wine
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
2 tablespoons minced red roasted peppers (or 1 teaspoon minced jalapeno peppers)
2 tablespoons honey
Heat oven to 200 degrees.
Season chops on both sides with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the chops and cook until lightly browned on the bottom, about 5 minutes. Turn the chops, cover the pan, then reduce heat to low and cook until the chops are done, about another seven to eight minutes.
Transfer the chops to an oven-safe plate, cover with foil and place in the oven to keep warm.
Return the skillet to the stove over medium-high heat. Add the onion, wine, cranberries, peppers and honey. Bring to a simmer and cook until the cranberries pop and the liquid has reduced to create a thick sauce, about 5 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper.
To serve, drizzle each pork chop with some of the cranberry sauce.
LE4
4 thick pork chops
3 tablespoons butter
1 med onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup red wine
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
2 tablespoons minced red roasted peppers (or 1 teaspoon minced jalapeno peppers)
2 tablespoons honey
Heat oven to 200 degrees.
Season chops on both sides with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the chops and cook until lightly browned on the bottom, about 5 minutes. Turn the chops, cover the pan, then reduce heat to low and cook until the chops are done, about another seven to eight minutes.
Transfer the chops to an oven-safe plate, cover with foil and place in the oven to keep warm.
Return the skillet to the stove over medium-high heat. Add the onion, wine, cranberries, peppers and honey. Bring to a simmer and cook until the cranberries pop and the liquid has reduced to create a thick sauce, about 5 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper.
To serve, drizzle each pork chop with some of the cranberry sauce.
LE4
3/9/09
Monday Meal Plan Menu 3/9-3/15
If you havent already done so, be sure to visit I'm an Organizing Junkie's site. Organizing Junkie is home to Menu Plan Monday. Here's what she says; "I truly believe that menu planning is one of the best places to start in your quest to get organized. Each week over 400 ladies share what’s on their menus for the week and we’d love to have you join us! It’s a wonderful opportunity to keep your menu planning efforts on track week after week not to mention the many great ideas and recipes that come from reading the menus of the many other participants."
I seen on someone's blog a casserole using smoked/italian sausage. I can't find it now. If you know what I'm talking about, will you post the link for me pretty please. I could have sworn it was on the $5 dollar dinner sight, but I couldnt seem to find it.
Monday Baked Sirloin Steak, Baked Potatoe, Corn, Salad
Tuesday Swiss Chicken Casserole
Wednesday Quick Ham & Rice Casserole
Thursday Creamy Meatballs and Potatoes
Friday Leftovers
Saturday Tuna Salad Sandwiches
Sunday Smothered Pork Steak, Au Gratin Potatoes, Corn
3/8/09
Quick Ham & Rice Casserole
2 cups Instant Rice, cooked
1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup
1/2 cup milk
1 cup frozen peas
1 tsp Minced Onions
8 oz diced cooked ham
1 Tbl Soy Sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Combine rice with all ingredients except cheese.
Pour into 2 quart casserole dish.
Sprinkle cheese on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
For more great recipes be sure to join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays. You might even be chosen for her Gem of the Week award.
LE2
1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup
1/2 cup milk
1 cup frozen peas
1 tsp Minced Onions
8 oz diced cooked ham
1 Tbl Soy Sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Combine rice with all ingredients except cheese.
Pour into 2 quart casserole dish.
Sprinkle cheese on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
For more great recipes be sure to join Sandy in her Share My Recipe Sundays. You might even be chosen for her Gem of the Week award.
LE2
Giveaway: Win 5 Pokens!
Have you entered to win 5 Pokens? The deadline is tonight.How does the Poken work? You can read about all that HERE.
Where do I enter to win 5 Pokens? From Jessica Knows! It's easy to enter and there are several different ways. CLICK HERE TO ENTER
3/7/09
Italian Square Baked Meatballs
This recipe originally came from my Pillsbury Back To School Cooking cookbook. Of course depending upon what I have on hand is how they are made, but here's the basic recipe. (I'll post a pic later this week when I make them again)
1 egg
1/4-1/2 cup finely chopped onion (I use 2 tsp onion powder most of the time)
1/4 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (Progresso is my favorite!)
1/4 cup tomato sauce (I've also used 1/4 cup ketchup or a little tomato paste)
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1 lb lean hamburger
1/2 lb Italian pork sausage (I've used all hamburger when I didnt have sausage and added 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning)
~Preheat oven to 425°F.
~Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with foil (heavy-duty is best); spray foil with non-stick spray.
~Beat egg in a large bowl, mix in all remaining ingredients. Dump onto foil and shape into an 8 inch square. Cut into 36 squares but do not separate squares. A pizza cutter works great!
~Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until meatballs are thoroughly cooked and no longer pink in center. I like to turn the heat up to broil and brown them. It only takes a couple minutes of CONSTANT watching or you'll burn them. ;)
~Finishing cutting apart meatballs.
~I use these for spaghetti, meatball sandwiches, anything calling for meatballs.This alternative method of shaping and baking is less time consuming and not as messy as the "old" way of hand rolling and pan frying.
~They freeze really well and are great for the once a month cooking lifestyle also.
I'm going to make a couple batches of these this week and use some of them in a recipe I want to try that I found on Saving Everyday. It's her Italian Wedding Soup recipe that sounds yummmmy! If you havnt checked out her blog, now's a good time to do so. You will love it as much as I do, I'm sure!
1 egg
1/4-1/2 cup finely chopped onion (I use 2 tsp onion powder most of the time)
1/4 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (Progresso is my favorite!)
1/4 cup tomato sauce (I've also used 1/4 cup ketchup or a little tomato paste)
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1 lb lean hamburger
1/2 lb Italian pork sausage (I've used all hamburger when I didnt have sausage and added 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning)
~Preheat oven to 425°F.
~Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with foil (heavy-duty is best); spray foil with non-stick spray.
~Beat egg in a large bowl, mix in all remaining ingredients. Dump onto foil and shape into an 8 inch square. Cut into 36 squares but do not separate squares. A pizza cutter works great!
~Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until meatballs are thoroughly cooked and no longer pink in center. I like to turn the heat up to broil and brown them. It only takes a couple minutes of CONSTANT watching or you'll burn them. ;)
~Finishing cutting apart meatballs.
~I use these for spaghetti, meatball sandwiches, anything calling for meatballs.This alternative method of shaping and baking is less time consuming and not as messy as the "old" way of hand rolling and pan frying.
~They freeze really well and are great for the once a month cooking lifestyle also.
I'm going to make a couple batches of these this week and use some of them in a recipe I want to try that I found on Saving Everyday. It's her Italian Wedding Soup recipe that sounds yummmmy! If you havnt checked out her blog, now's a good time to do so. You will love it as much as I do, I'm sure!
3/6/09
Homemade Instant Oatmeal Packets
Why pay those prices for instant oatmeal packs when you can make your own! It's easy and they are much healthier for you. I figure I can make these for .15 a packet as opposed to .52 a packet for the store bought.
Instant Oatmeal Packets
3 cups quick oats
salt
8 sandwich baggies (be sure to save and reuse your baggies to save even more money)
Process 1 cup oats in a blender on high until powdery.
Measure into each baggie: 1/4 cup of the un-processed oats, 2 tablespoons powdered oats, and a pinch of salt and any add-ins if desired.
To serve: empty baggie into a bowl. Add 3/4 cup boiling water. Stir and let stand for 2 minutes. For creamier oatmeal add a shot of milk or cream.
Add-in ideas:
Sweetened: 2 tsp sugar (or use splenda! accordingly)
Brown Sugar & Cinnamon: 2 tsp brown sugar and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Brown Sugar & Raisins: 2 tsp brown sugar and 1 Tbl raisins
Cinnamon & Apples: 2 tsp sugar, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, and 2 Tbl chopped dried apples
Bananas & Cream: 1 Tbl non-dairy coffee creamer and 2 Tbl dried bananas
Maple Brown Sugar: 2 tsp brown sugar and 1 1/2 tsp maple pancake syrup
Do you add anything to your oatmeal that I didn't mention here? I'm always looking for new ideas, so leave me a comment.
Instant Oatmeal Packets
3 cups quick oats
salt
8 sandwich baggies (be sure to save and reuse your baggies to save even more money)
Process 1 cup oats in a blender on high until powdery.
Measure into each baggie: 1/4 cup of the un-processed oats, 2 tablespoons powdered oats, and a pinch of salt and any add-ins if desired.
To serve: empty baggie into a bowl. Add 3/4 cup boiling water. Stir and let stand for 2 minutes. For creamier oatmeal add a shot of milk or cream.
Add-in ideas:
Sweetened: 2 tsp sugar (or use splenda! accordingly)
Brown Sugar & Cinnamon: 2 tsp brown sugar and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Brown Sugar & Raisins: 2 tsp brown sugar and 1 Tbl raisins
Cinnamon & Apples: 2 tsp sugar, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, and 2 Tbl chopped dried apples
Bananas & Cream: 1 Tbl non-dairy coffee creamer and 2 Tbl dried bananas
Maple Brown Sugar: 2 tsp brown sugar and 1 1/2 tsp maple pancake syrup
Do you add anything to your oatmeal that I didn't mention here? I'm always looking for new ideas, so leave me a comment.
3/4/09
Giveaway: Sock Sacks...No More Sock Matching!
Sandy of Organize with Sandy is hosting a Sock Sack giveaway. These sacks are really a great idea and will cut out a lot of time sorting and matching up socks. Be sure to enter before the deadline today at 8pm. There are several EASY painless ways to enter.
Also, I wanted to mention Sandy hosts a Share My Recipe every Sunday. Go over and check it out. Pick up new recipes and share one!
Also, I wanted to mention Sandy hosts a Share My Recipe every Sunday. Go over and check it out. Pick up new recipes and share one!
3/3/09
Quick Dinner Rolls For Working Moms
1 cup milk
1 cup water
1/4 cup margarine
4-5 cups all purpose flour
3 T sugar
1 tsp salt
2 pkgs. active dry yeast
Combine milk, water and butter in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until warm to the touch.
In mixer bowl, place 3 cups of the flour and remaining dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until well blended. Gradually add the warm milk mixture. Mix until well blended.
Gradually begin adding the remaining 1 to 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough is firm, clings to the hook, and cleans the sides of the bowl. Turn out onto counter top and knead a few times.
Place in a large greased bowl and allow to rise in a warm place for 20 minutes. Turn out, and divide into rolls or loaves. Place bread in a warm place and allow to rise for another 20-30 minutes.
Bake in a 375 degree oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with butter while still warm to produce a nice soft crust.
1 cup water
1/4 cup margarine
4-5 cups all purpose flour
3 T sugar
1 tsp salt
2 pkgs. active dry yeast
Combine milk, water and butter in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until warm to the touch.
In mixer bowl, place 3 cups of the flour and remaining dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until well blended. Gradually add the warm milk mixture. Mix until well blended.
Gradually begin adding the remaining 1 to 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough is firm, clings to the hook, and cleans the sides of the bowl. Turn out onto counter top and knead a few times.
Place in a large greased bowl and allow to rise in a warm place for 20 minutes. Turn out, and divide into rolls or loaves. Place bread in a warm place and allow to rise for another 20-30 minutes.
Bake in a 375 degree oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with butter while still warm to produce a nice soft crust.
3/2/09
Olive Juice Bags Giveaway, 1 bag a month for 6 months!
Olive Juice Bags is a manufacturer of funky affordable fabric bags, Made in the USA.
Olive Juice Bags is holding a Bag-of-the-Month giveaway for the next 6 months and you can help spread the word.
Olive Juice Bags are eco-friendly because the company has found a way to utilize overrun fabric and keep it out from being thrown away. Repurposing the fabric into a functional and fashionable product means less waste in the landfills.
Because of this, many of the bags are unique: five-of-a kind, two-of-a kind or even one-of-a kind. If you see an
Olive Juice Bag you like, snag it quickly because you may not see the same bag ever again.
Olive Juice Bags is also a socially conscious company that supports real-wage jobs. Local families benefit from jobs provided by companies that manufacture in the US-- and Olive Juice Bags is one of them.
Check out the different varieties of Olive Juice Bags at www.olivejuicebags.com.
"How do I enter?" you ask? Blog about it! Then email them the url to your post. Here's their instructions:
"Enter now through August 31st, 2009 by simply blogging about our contest on your personal or professional blog. For each separate blog entry you will receive an entry into our contest. just send us the link to each of your postings (maximum one per day) at olivejuicebags@comcast.net and you’ll be entered for a chance to win the featured olive juice bag-of-the-month. six total winners will be chosen, one per month, and will be contacted by e-mail. a list of winners will be available in our monthly newletter."
Olive Juice Bags is holding a Bag-of-the-Month giveaway for the next 6 months and you can help spread the word.
Olive Juice Bags are eco-friendly because the company has found a way to utilize overrun fabric and keep it out from being thrown away. Repurposing the fabric into a functional and fashionable product means less waste in the landfills.
Because of this, many of the bags are unique: five-of-a kind, two-of-a kind or even one-of-a kind. If you see an
Olive Juice Bag you like, snag it quickly because you may not see the same bag ever again.Olive Juice Bags is also a socially conscious company that supports real-wage jobs. Local families benefit from jobs provided by companies that manufacture in the US-- and Olive Juice Bags is one of them.
Check out the different varieties of Olive Juice Bags at www.olivejuicebags.com.
"How do I enter?" you ask? Blog about it! Then email them the url to your post. Here's their instructions:
"Enter now through August 31st, 2009 by simply blogging about our contest on your personal or professional blog. For each separate blog entry you will receive an entry into our contest. just send us the link to each of your postings (maximum one per day) at olivejuicebags@comcast.net and you’ll be entered for a chance to win the featured olive juice bag-of-the-month. six total winners will be chosen, one per month, and will be contacted by e-mail. a list of winners will be available in our monthly newletter."
Monday Meal Plan Menu 3/2-3/8
If you havent already done so, be sure to visit I'm an Organizing Junkie's site. Organizing Junkie is home to Menu Plan Monday. Here's what she says; "I truly believe that menu planning is one of the best places to start in your quest to get organized. Each week over 400 ladies share what’s on their menus for the week and we’d love to have you join us! It’s a wonderful opportunity to keep your menu planning efforts on track week after week not to mention the many great ideas and recipes that come from reading the menus of the many other participants."
I seen on someone's blog a casserole using smoked/italian sausage. I can't find it now. If you know what I'm talking about, will you post the link for me pretty please. I could have sworn it was on the $5 dollar dinner sight, but I couldnt seem to find it.
Monday Since our schedules changed and I wasn't able to fix this Saturday, it's on the menu for today. Swiss Chicken, Corn, Baked Potatoes
Tuesday Stir Fry Broccoli, Carrots & Mushrooms, fried rice, and pork egg rolls
Wednesday Spaghetti, salad, garlic toast
Thursday Home-made chicken Soup
Friday Cheeseburgers and Oven Baked Fries
Saturday ??Tuna?? I have to decide on this still.
Sunday ??Ham Casserole?? Looking for my recipe
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