tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63543682940846044262024-03-14T01:11:45.843-07:00The Nosh PitLittle Bites of LifeLindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-709200577657734492011-05-22T07:28:00.000-07:002011-05-22T07:28:08.173-07:00Menu Plan Monday - May 23<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div><br />
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Getting back to the real world after a vacation is always hard. Cooking is not nearly as much fun in my own kitchen. This week, my beautiful sister-in-law and family are in town from Idaho. They are staying with my in-laws, but we are planning on hosting a day. My husband also returns to work this week, so breakfast and lunches don't have to be very involved. Since we're returning from vacation, even though I did well with maintaining my weight and not gaining (I'm utterly surprised), I'll be paying extra special attention to getting in my veggies, lean protein and whole grains.<br />
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<b>Breakfasts </b>(all include fresh fruit, juice and milk)<br />
scrambled eggs and toast<br />
<a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/04/27/fruity-baked-oatmeal-with-crunchy-cinnamon-almond-topping/">fruity baked oatmeal</a><br />
waffles<br />
<a href="http://backtoherroots.com/2011/01/23/blueberry-lemon-breakfast-pizza/">blueberry lemon breakfast pizza</a><br />
green monster smoothies<br />
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<b>Lunches</b> (all include fresh veggies, fruit and milk)<br />
sandwiches (turkey or tuna salad)<br />
pita pizzas<br />
green monsters<br />
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<b>Monday</b>: On the road home from Florida, eating out<br />
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<b>Tuesday</b>: Baked Ziti; salad; garlic knots<br />
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<b>Wednesday</b>: Grilled Pork Chops; mashed sweet potatoes; broccoli<br />
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<b>Thursday</b>: Homemade Veggie Pizza; salad<br />
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<b>Friday</b>: <a href="http://www.cleaneatingmag.com/Recipes/Recipe/Individual-Chicken-Pot-Pies.aspx">Individual Chicken Pot Pies</a>; salad<br />
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I hope you all have a wonderful week. Make sure to check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">OrgJunkie</a> for more delicious weekly menu plans!Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-9760451668282311442011-05-17T08:07:00.000-07:002011-05-17T08:07:55.475-07:00Vacation Eating on a BudgetMy family and I are in Florida right now. White sandy beaches, blue skies, warm breezes...everything Florida is known for. Aside from getting lost during my run this morning, it has been a nice time thus far.<br />
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Even though we've saved for this trip for a few months, we don't want to pour our entire vacation budget into restaurants. Here are some of the tips that I found most useful to maintain some semblance of a budget while on vacation.<br />
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1) <b>Cook</b>. I know it seems counterproductive to the idea of relaxation, but it saves an extraordinary amount of money. We opted for a condo with a full kitchen and then bought groceries when we arrived. I spent a bit more on food than I would have at home, but a lot of that is condiments and stuff that I don't normally have to buy. Food doesn't have to be fancy or take a long time, but making it yourself and using local ingredients is one of my favorite ways to save money.<br />
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2) <b>Use Local Ingredients</b>. During the summer, farm stands are everywhere. Peaches at Publix were $3.99/lb...locally grown, picked that morning peaches at the farm stand were $2 for a 3 pound bag. My family almost always finds local farm stands or farmers markets and then we decide our meals based on what looks tempting.<br />
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3) <b>Use Savings Websites</b>. A few months before we left, I subscribed to the local Groupon site and kept watch for restaurants or other fun things that we could enjoy as a family. I always checked restaurant reviews on Yelp.com before buying so we didn't end up with a dud. We enjoyed one of our Groupon coupons last night at a local pizza place (really yummy!) and walked out for $20 including tax and tip. The extra pizza will make a great snack for the family as well.<br />
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4) <b>Check With the Front Desk or Visitors Bureau</b>: If you're at a hotel or condo, most will have coupons or special deals available only to patrons. I asked the woman who checked us in and she handed me a stack of coupons good for everything from free appetizers, free kids meals or a percentage off the final bill. The locally owned restaurants want you to walk in their door and providing something for free is a really great way to make that happen.<br />
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We are eating out a few meals during the trip, but for the most part, will be eating in. Breakfasts will include egg and veggie scrambles, toast, smoothies and fresh fruit and we bought premium sandwich ingredients for subs and paninis for lunches. Spending $30 on really awesome sandwich ingredients that will last the week is far cheaper than hitting the local deli 5 times during the week.<br />
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Now, if you will excuse me, I have a margarita that needs to be sipped and feet that need to be put up oceanside.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-27823349951027693912011-05-15T14:18:00.000-07:002011-05-15T14:18:09.182-07:00Menu Plan Monday - May 16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div><br />
We leave today for Perdido Key, Florida for a week. We rented a condo that has a full kitchen so we won't have to eat out every day -- yay! I love having a break from cooking, but eating out for 7 days is a bit much for both my wallet and waistline. I've thrown together a few easy peasy meals that can be made in advance or quickly after a long day on the beach.<br />
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Monday: Pizza out<br />
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Tuesday: Tuscan Tuna and White Bean Salad in Pita Pockets; grilled sweet potatoes<br />
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Wednesday: Grilled Salmon, tossed salad<br />
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Thursday: Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, coleslaw, fruit salad<br />
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Friday: Out<br />
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Saturday: Going to the Pensacola Farmer's Market - will decide dinner based on what looks good<br />
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Sunday: Out<br />
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I hope everyone has a wonderful week. Make sure to check out <a href="http://www.orgjunkie.com/">OrgJunkie</a> for more delicious menu plans!Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-7477302176414982502011-05-09T14:40:00.000-07:002011-05-09T15:06:48.420-07:00Menu Plan Monday - May 9<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div><br />
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This week is all about eating up our perishables before we leave for Florida next Monday. Bone-in chicken breasts are on sale this week, so a few meals will include those. We're grilling a few nights and having pasta a few nights (something we almost never do anymore). I continued through my pile of "to-make" recipes and let my sons help choose some that looked good to them.<br />
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<b>Breakfasts: </b>(all include fruit, milk and juice)<br />
breakfast cookies<br />
yogurt and granola<br />
eggs and toast<br />
overnight soaked oats<br />
oatmeal<br />
<br />
<b>Lunches: </b>(all include fruit and veggies)<br />
turkey sandwiches on homemade wheat bread<br />
leftovers<br />
<a href="http://onceamonthmom.com/taco-soup/">taco soup</a><br />
chard wraps stuffed with tuna and egg salad<br />
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<b>Monday: </b><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/the-surreal-gourmet/beer-can-chicken-recipe/index.html">Beer can chicken</a>, <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/vegetarian-baked-beans-crock-pot-147984">slow cooker baked beans</a>, salad<br />
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<b>Tuesday: </b><a href="http://www.kohlercreated.com/blog/?p=6795">Vegetarian Tortilla Pie</a><br />
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<b>Wednesday</b>: <a href="http://www.thefrugalgirl.com/2010/04/easy-frugal-cooking-tropical-island-chicken/">Tropical Island Chicken</a>, broccoli salad, chia bread<br />
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<b>Thursday</b>: <a href="http://www.owlhaven.net/2010/05/03/sriracha-barbecued-chicken-2/">Sriracha Barbecued Chicken</a>, roasted asparagus, salad<br />
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<b>Friday</b>: <a href="http://www.mrshappyhomemaker.com/2011/02/meatball-lasagna.html">Meatball Lasagna</a> (makes a TON!), salad<br />
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<b>Saturday</b>: <a href="http://www.budgetgourmetmom.com/penne-and-peppers-with-a-chunky-meat-sauce/#more-876">Penne and Peppers with Chunky Meat Sauce</a>, garlic twists, salad<br />
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<b>Sunday</b>: leftover buffet<br />
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I hope everyone has a great week! Make sure to check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">OrgJunkie</a> for more delicious weekly menu plans.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-10140298421015685582011-05-08T08:04:00.000-07:002011-05-08T08:04:26.853-07:00Happy Mother's Day!Happy Mother's Day to all my beautiful Mommies out there. I hope your day doesn't end up like this...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOSflnVh8wo/TcWyFl5DN5I/AAAAAAAADMM/kcfYQ__GDa0/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOSflnVh8wo/TcWyFl5DN5I/AAAAAAAADMM/kcfYQ__GDa0/s320/009.JPG" width="214" /></a></div>My sons and husband made me a cake...and promptly dropped it on the floor. I think Connor's face broke the fall. We all had a good laugh -- except for the perp.<br />
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Planning to spend my day with my family, doing a little shopping and eating an insanely decadent meal.<br />
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Have a fabulous day, moms!Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-10404681514282504092011-05-07T13:36:00.000-07:002011-05-07T13:36:03.166-07:00Chicken Korma<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nc2k-vzHl6I/TcWspz39cQI/AAAAAAAADMA/MFmvbc3z6Kc/s1600/021-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nc2k-vzHl6I/TcWspz39cQI/AAAAAAAADMA/MFmvbc3z6Kc/s320/021-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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I have a relatively unhealthy obsession with Asian food. Not unhealthy like I eat mounds and mounds of it (not that I couldn't), but unhealthy that I would be completely fine with having it every single day for quite some time. Pretty sure I would be a prime candidate for a 12-step program.<br />
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The good thing about Asian food is that it is relatively easy to prepare at home. Several dishes have a lengthy list of ingredients, but they all come together pretty effortlessly.<br />
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Korma is a Northern Indian curry. It includes yogurt and nut or seed pastes/meals. They can be made vegetarian or not and the protein included can be changed to suit any tastes. Chicken was cheap this week, so I went that route.<br />
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<b>Chicken Korma</b><br />
serves 4<br />
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1 T. canola oil<br />
1 red onion, sliced into rings<br />
4 garlic cloves, minced<br />
1 sweet potato, diced<br />
2 tsp. garam masala<br />
1 tsp. cumin<br />
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper<br />
2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces<br />
1 1/4 c. chicken stock <br />
1/4 c. plain yogurt<br />
1/2 c. almond meal (make it yourself by whirring some raw almonds in the food processor until it resembles course flour)<br />
1 head broccoli, florets removed and stems discarded<br />
1 c. snow peas<br />
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cooked brown rice, to serve<br />
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Heat oil over medium-high heat in a wok or deep sided skillet. Cook the onions, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.<br />
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Add chicken and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until browned. Stir in garam masala, cumin and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.<br />
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Add stock, yogurt and almond meal. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 8-10 minutes until sauce is creamy and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.<br />
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Add broccoli and pea pods and cook for another 3-4 minutes. The vegetables should be tender-crisp.<br />
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<b> </b><br />
<b> </b>Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-68383809166045581202011-05-01T17:06:00.000-07:002011-05-01T17:06:10.793-07:00Menu Plan Monday - May 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div><br />
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Wow, May already! I can't believe how fast 2011 is flying by! The Husband is in his last week of finals, then we have a week off before we leave for vacation in Florida. I can't freakin' wait for vacation! An entire week of white, sandy beaches, no house cleaning, big fruity drinks...oh my.<br />
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I'm finally starting to tackle my gigantic pile of recipes that I have put in the "to be made" category. Sifting through them, I couldn't believe I hadn't made some of these sooner. They sound so good!<br />
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<b>Breakfasts: (all will include fresh fruit, milk, and juice)</b><br />
<a href="http://kblog.lunchboxbunch.com/2011/03/vanilla-cherry-coconut-breakfast.html">Vanilla Cherry Breakfast Risotto</a><br />
<a href="http://onceamonthmom.com/toddler-french-toast-sticks/">French Toast Sticks</a><br />
oatmeal<br />
overnight oats<br />
<a href="http://twopeasandtheirpod.com/honey-yogurt-waffles/">Honey Yogurt Waffles</a><br />
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<b>Lunches: (all include fresh fruit and veggies)</b><br />
<a href="http://www.5dollardinners.com/2010/04/chana-masala-5-dinner-challenge.html">Chana Masala</a><b> </b><br />
turkey sandwiches<br />
oven baked cheese and avocado sandwiches<br />
taco soup<br />
tuna wraps<br />
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<b>Monday: </b><a href="http://www.5dollardinners.com/2009/03/mini-meatloaves-and-mashed-potatoes.html">Mini meatloaves and mashed potatoes</a> (I'm going to doctor the meatloaf recipe a bit and use ground turkey); salad<br />
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<b>Tuesday: </b><a href="http://onceamonthmom.com/tomato-basil-hamburgers/">Tomato Basil Hamburgers</a>; roasted red potatoes; salad<br />
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<b>Wednesday: </b><a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2010/12/dinner-tonight-garlic-shrimp-with-basil-tomatoes.html">Garlic Shrimp with Basil, Tomatoes and Red Pepper Flakes</a>; whole wheat orzo; salad<br />
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<b>Thursday: </b><a href="http://canyoustayfordinner.com/2011/04/10/lemon-chicken-gyros-with-tzatziki-and-feta/">Lemon Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki and Feta</a>; homemade whole wheat pita; <a href="http://www.lanascooking.com/2011/04/13/minty-watermelon-salad/">Minty Watermelon Salad</a><br />
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<b>Friday: </b>Out for Pizza to celebrate finals being over! <br />
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<b>Saturday: </b><a href="http://www.foodpeoplewant.com/grilled-chicken-sandwich-with-pesto-goat-cheese-spread/">Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto Goat Cheese Spread</a>; cucumber tomato salad<br />
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<b>Sunday: </b>Late Mother's Day Lunch at Texas De Brazil<br />
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I hope everyone has a fantastic week! Make sure to check out the other weekly menu plans at <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">Org Junkie</a>!Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-9171661527760433242011-04-30T16:31:00.000-07:002011-04-30T16:31:25.991-07:00Peanut Butter Banana Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8jniG8Q3Gvc/Tbybt5oVStI/AAAAAAAADLQ/wRf58wqqN-A/s1600/009-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8jniG8Q3Gvc/Tbybt5oVStI/AAAAAAAADLQ/wRf58wqqN-A/s320/009-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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To date, I believe I've made 32 different varieties of banana bread - plain jane, tropical, boozy, chocolate, and now peanut butter. I love peanut butter and banana sandwiches, so I thought making this bread was a pretty logical thing to do. Even better was the fact that the original recipe was relatively low in calories and added sugar. I hate putting my kids into a sugar coma first thing in the morning. <br />
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My husband and boys could eat banana bread for every meal. There are times when I make a loaf expecting it to be part of breakfast for the next several days and it ends up being eaten entirely by the end of the afternoon -- small bite by small bite.<br />
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I made a few small changes to the original recipe. I used low-fat greek yogurt instead of fat-free plain (fat makes food moist and flavorful! Let's not be afraid of it!) and substituted whole wheat pastry flour for the all-purpose flour. I also reduced the amount of brown and white sugar used. The end result was hearty, moist, flavorful and lightly sweet from the bananas.<br />
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<b>Peanut Butter Banana Bread</b><br />
<i>Adapted from Cooking Light</i><br />
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<div><em><br />
</em></div>1 1/2 cups mashed ripe banana<br />
1/3 cup low-fat greek yogurt<br />
1/3 cup creamy, natural peanut butter<br />
3 tablespoons butter, melted<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1/3 cup granulated sugar<br />
1/3 cup packed brown sugar<br />
1 1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour<br />
1/4 cup ground flaxseed<br />
3/4 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
1/8 teaspoon ground allspice<br />
2 tablespoon chopped dry-roasted peanuts<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bottoms and side of a loaf pan.<br />
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In a large bowl, mix together bananas, greek yogurt, peanut butter, butter, eggs, and sugars. In another large bowl, mix flour, ground flax, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and allspice. Make a small well in the flour mixture and add banana mixture to the well. Stir together until just combined. Add peanuts and stir to incorporate.<br />
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Scrape batter into prepared loaf pan.<br />
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Bake until top is golden and a skewer inserted in the middle comes out clean -- about 1 hour, 5 minutes. Cool in pan for 15 minutes, then remove to cooling rack to cool completely.<br />
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<b>Final thoughts</b>: I think next time I would roast the bananas in the skin for 20 minutes or so to deepen the banana flavor. There is a lot to be said for caramelized bananas.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<i> </i><b> </b>Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-67593625399333716182011-04-28T16:45:00.000-07:002011-04-28T16:45:49.132-07:00Menu Plan...Friday. Oops!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5tukU2_bSeg/Tbn7zObZLuI/AAAAAAAADKw/GwFaQSI5KJQ/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5tukU2_bSeg/Tbn7zObZLuI/AAAAAAAADKw/GwFaQSI5KJQ/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div><br />
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This completely got away from me this week, but never fear, I have had my plan and we did a great job of sticking to it. This is one of the first weeks in a long time that we've had the appropriate meals on the appropriate days and didn't bump a meal to get take-out. Go us!<br />
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<b>Breakfasts: (all can be paired with fresh fruit, milk and juice)</b><br />
oatmeal with fruit (apples, pears, and blueberries)<b> </b><br />
<a href="http://twopeasandtheirpod.com/honey-yogurt-waffles/">honey yogurt waffles (batch cooked)</a> (I have modified the recipe a bit and will post the modifications soon)<br />
<a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/carrot-cake-pancakes-10000001949746/">carrot cake pancakes (batch cooked)</a><br />
scrambled eggs with <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ellie-krieger/whole-wheat-cinnamon-raisin-bread-recipe/index.html">cinnamon raisin toast</a><br />
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<b>Lunches: (all can be paired with fresh veggies, hummus and fruit)</b><br />
grilled cheese with avocado and tomato<br />
<a href="http://kitchenilliterate.wordpress.com/2008/02/20/chicken-curry-soup-with-broccoli-and-rice/">broccoli chicken soup</a><br />
turkey sandwiches<br />
<a href="http://the-nosh-pit.blogspot.com/2010/04/pizza-pockets.html">pizza pockets</a><br />
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<b>Dinners:</b><br />
<b>Monday: </b>Leftover <a href="http://the-nosh-pit.blogspot.com/2011/04/different-kind-of-easter-dinner-tequila.html">Tequila Lime Fajitas</a>; black beans<br />
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<b>Tuesday: </b>Fajita Quesadillas<br />
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<b>Wednesday: </b><a href="http://ooh-look.blogspot.com/2011/04/datevaluetuesday-chicken-korma.html">Chicken Korma</a>; brown basmati rice<br />
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<b>Thursday: </b><a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/shrimp_cheddar_grits.html">Shrimp and Cheddar Cheese Grits</a>; asparagus<br />
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<b>Friday: </b>Red Beans and Rice<br />
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<b>Saturday: </b>easy dinner night for the kids - date night for me!<br />
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Make sure to head over to <a href="http://www.orgjunkie.com/">Org Junkie</a> to check out other menus from people who actually got them in on time! Have a great rest of the week and weekend!Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-8385471783129952011-04-28T12:10:00.000-07:002011-04-28T12:10:00.860-07:00Summertime!and the livin' is eas-ay. dooo do de dooooooo...do do do do...<br />
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yeah...blame Pandora for that one.<br />
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Anyway, all singing aside, it is HOT here in Southern Louisiana. Air Conditioning has been on steadily for two weeks now and I can hear my utility bills skyrocketing.<br />
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To combat the heat, I bring The Boys to get snowballs (side note: the thought of having a snowball (cone) stand that is open year long is so foreign to me) and we go to the local fountain to splash around a bit.<br />
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Better sit down, cuteness is coming.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nGfJigbtMus/TbixxMCaIqI/AAAAAAAADKY/hhpUOQ6Ge3g/s1600/059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nGfJigbtMus/TbixxMCaIqI/AAAAAAAADKY/hhpUOQ6Ge3g/s320/059.JPG" width="214" /></a></div> Now that he is old enough to eat it by himself...he is very possessive of his sour cherry, face-staining snowball.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6cihkSy_500/TbiyTI3K9FI/AAAAAAAADKo/RAhYqfgJxs8/s1600/061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6cihkSy_500/TbiyTI3K9FI/AAAAAAAADKo/RAhYqfgJxs8/s320/061.JPG" width="214" /></a></div> Except when Big Brother asks for a taste...which he does frequently.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O7D3pCHzCak/TbixmpbNiII/AAAAAAAADKQ/l1thYR3Cd2A/s1600/035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O7D3pCHzCak/TbixmpbNiII/AAAAAAAADKQ/l1thYR3Cd2A/s320/035.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fN5S8PlleYU/Tbixqx7FPdI/AAAAAAAADKU/mWNBcCKvjeU/s1600/036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fN5S8PlleYU/Tbixqx7FPdI/AAAAAAAADKU/mWNBcCKvjeU/s320/036.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This is Big Brother's "Tasting" face....taste taste taste...*pensive stare off to the left*...VERY good!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PXEYUxzH8Fo/TbiyA-IZ1gI/AAAAAAAADKk/uqrBnuG_nwg/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PXEYUxzH8Fo/TbiyA-IZ1gI/AAAAAAAADKk/uqrBnuG_nwg/s320/028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2EInSlPPgOA/Tbix8IPSxsI/AAAAAAAADKg/VTEKGxWMFFw/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2EInSlPPgOA/Tbix8IPSxsI/AAAAAAAADKg/VTEKGxWMFFw/s320/026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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I hope everyone is enjoying their warmer weather! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-18699979030198482132011-04-27T14:13:00.000-07:002011-04-27T14:13:02.785-07:00A Different Kind of Easter Dinner (Tequila Lime Fajitas)Months ago I started plotting our Easter dinner menu. I'm totally Type-A like that and usually have lists and lists by March of potential recipes....and then the tasting begins (my favorite part, obviously). This year, I thought I had everything planned out...and then I started perusing Tastespotting and that went out the window. The weather was looking promising and I thought it was the perfect day to grill. My husband's favorite food is steak (like most other men, I'm sure) and he enjoys it in every form imaginable. Steaks for the entire family would be a little pricey, so we opted for chicken and steak fajitas. Best.Idea.Ever.<br />
<br />
They serve a ton (seriously, we could have had another entire family over and still had leftovers), are pretty economical and if done correctly, are way better than what you're going to get in most Tex-Mex restaurants.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4llIByqXSmE/TbiBZpDUFRI/AAAAAAAADKA/Zd2M5WW17uo/s1600/075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4llIByqXSmE/TbiBZpDUFRI/AAAAAAAADKA/Zd2M5WW17uo/s320/075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> First off, marinate the meat. Make sure you plan way ahead because they need to marinate for at least two hours. The longer the better. I let them marinate in the refrigerator for 7 hours. I scored the meat for maximum absorption.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ei3gCLNfJ0o/TbiBeT4giZI/AAAAAAAADKE/uCUXKhN3pE4/s1600/087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ei3gCLNfJ0o/TbiBeT4giZI/AAAAAAAADKE/uCUXKhN3pE4/s320/087.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Grill the meat. Get that heat as high as you can get it. You want to get a nice char on the meat (cancer be damned in this case). My perfect fajita steak is cooked to medium-rare. Unfortunately, these pictures are from a trial marinade run and we used a sirloin, I prefer either flank or skirt steak and used flank steak on Easter. Honestly, though, any beef marinated in lime juice and tequila is going to be pretty damn good. Especially if you employ the "one for you, two for me" mentality.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CjFtwSsWy-A/TbiBhbzlPRI/AAAAAAAADKI/vwkSyJrpKjA/s1600/090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CjFtwSsWy-A/TbiBhbzlPRI/AAAAAAAADKI/vwkSyJrpKjA/s320/090.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Veggies! I actually prefer doing my fajita veggies on the stovetop. They get nice and caramelized without getting burnt. I love onions, bell peppers and tomatoes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iSZXs0T0XpQ/TbiBluCMoNI/AAAAAAAADKM/d8rHqpyVhSQ/s1600/103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iSZXs0T0XpQ/TbiBluCMoNI/AAAAAAAADKM/d8rHqpyVhSQ/s320/103.JPG" width="214" /></a></div><br />
Voila! Finished product. Whole wheat tortilla, a little shredded cheddar and some sour cream. I like to keep things simple. We also offered guacamole, tomatillo salsa and pico de gallo as topping options.<br />
<br />
<b>Tequila Lime Fajita Marinade</b><br />
enough to marinate 3 pounds of desired meat or vegetables<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b> </b>1 bunch cilantro leaves<br />
1 poblano pepper, seeds left intact<br />
1/2 c. fresh lime juice (about 8 whole limes)<br />
1/2 lime (use the ones from when you squeezed the juice out, you're just looking for the rind)<br />
5 garlic cloves<br />
2 T. olive oil <br />
1/4 c. tequila<br />
1/2 tsp. cumin<br />
1/2 tsp. chili powder<br />
1 tsp. kosher salt<br />
1/2 tsp. fresh ground black pepper<br />
<br />
2-3 pounds of chicken, steak, shrimp, fish, vegetables, etc.<br />
<br />
Remove stems from cilantro leaves and add to food processor along with the lime juice, half lime, garlic, olive oil and tequila. Process until smooth. Add cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper and process until incorporated. Pour on top of meat and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours, but preferably 6+.<br />
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I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter filled with friends, family and great food! I will be back tomorrow with more Not-So-Eastery dinner recipes (roasted poblano and cheddar cornbread anyone?)Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-28707004035043313972011-04-19T18:00:00.000-07:002011-04-19T18:00:11.195-07:00Buckwheat Tabbouleh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nrwpUbp5R44/Ta4tT1oz6MI/AAAAAAAADIk/Ezn5m4lYNWk/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nrwpUbp5R44/Ta4tT1oz6MI/AAAAAAAADIk/Ezn5m4lYNWk/s320/028.JPG" width="303" /></a></div><br />
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My entire family loves Greek and Lebanese food. We're fortunate to have a Lebanese restaurant in town that does a fabulous lunch buffet...and only charges my kids, who often eat as much there as most adults, $1 for all of the tabbouleh, mujadara, gyro and schwarma that their little bellies can hold.<br />
<br />
Since I haven't been able to talk my husband into investing into a vertical spit (um, hello, that seems to be a pretty obvious purchase), I just have set about perfecting some of our other favorites. That is where tabbouleh comes in. Tabbouleh is such a great summer food - easy to prepare, fresh ingredients, easy on the waistline. I love a dish that doesn't require me to turn up the air conditioning.<br />
<br />
There are many ways of preparing tabbouleh, some use bulgur wheat, some include mint. I like using buckwheat because of the nuttiness (that is such an overused adjective) that it brings, and I often skip the mint (because I've banned that land hogger from my garden). This recipe is based on a recipe for buckwheat tabbouleh from one of my favorite healthy bloggers, <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/">Oh She Glows</a>. The ingredients included are much the same, but the preparation is a bit different. I like recipes that I don't have to babysit too much, so I've adapted her recipe to suit that purpose.<br />
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<b>Buckwheat Tabbouleh</b><br />
<i>serves 4</i><br />
<br />
1 cup raw buckwheat groats<br />
2.5 cups of water<br />
<br />
2 bunches parsley<br />
1/2 cucumber, cut into large chunks<br />
1/2 red bell pepper, cut into large chunks<br />
2 cloves garlic<br />
4 green onions, white and light green parts only<br />
1 carrot, cut into large chunks<br />
<br />
Juice of one large lemon<br />
2 T. extra virgin olive oil<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
<br />
I prefer to cook my buckwheat in a rice cooker for ease. Into a rice cooker goes the buckwheat and water, flip the switch and let it do its thing. If you don't have a rice cooker (ahem, get one), you're free to use the stove top. Just boil the water, add the buckwheat, bring back to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover and let cook for 15-20 minutes.<br />
<br />
After it is cooked, put it in the refrigerator to cool down a bit. Just until you have the rest of the ingredients prepped.<br />
<br />
Again, look at me using modern day appliances to make life easier. My food processor is my best friend. It is one of the few wedding gifts that I actually use (the others are a set of chopsticks and a misto). Cut the stems off the parsley, though, no need to be precise, just hack the bunch off under the leaves and throw it in the food processor. Pulse a few times to give it a rough chop and then add the rest of the vegetables. Pulse 10-15 times until everything is nice and uniformly chopped. Again, you can do this by hand.<br />
<br />
For the dressing, combine the juice of one large lemon and 2 T. olive oil. Whisk well. <br />
<br />
Pour the vegetable mixture into a large bowl and add the buckwheat. Stir until well incorporated. Pour the dressing over and stir again. Salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to develop the flavors, OR, if you're like me and have waited until the kids are absolutely dying of hunger to even start dinner...serve it immediately, it will still be super tasty.<br />
<br />
--<br />
<br />
Note, I probably won't ever give exact measurements on salt and pepper because tastes vary so much. I usually fall on the lightly salted end of the spectrum.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-90466230457026690622011-04-18T05:42:00.000-07:002011-04-18T05:42:38.791-07:00Menu Plan Monday - April 18<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aMxcFxrboZM/Taob8K6_WcI/AAAAAAAADIM/ggS8a1Jlr4M/s1600/MPM_Button.png" /></a></div><br />
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This week is more of the same - GHLF (gym, homeschool, laundry, finals prep for The Husband). It is starting to get hot here in Southern Louisiana, so our tastes are shifting away from heavy casseroles and more towards fresh, cool meals.<br />
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<b>Monday</b>: <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2011/03/chicken-and-mushrooms-in-garlic-white.html">Chicken and Mushrooms in a Garlic White Wine Sauce</a>, garlic roasted broccoli, herbed baked brown rice<br />
<br />
<b>Tuesday</b>: Kale, Sweet Potato and Feta Tart in a Spelt Crust (based on <a href="http://www.finecooking.com/recipes/swiss-chard-sweet-potato-feta-tart-teff-crust.aspx">this</a> recipe), field greens tossed with fig balsamic vinegar<br />
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<b>Wednesday</b>: <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/04/01/buckwheat-tabbouleh/">Buckwheat Tabbouleh</a>, homemade whole wheat pita and roasted red pepper hummus<br />
<br />
<b>Thursday</b>: Slowcooker Red Beans and Rice with Smoked Sausage, tossed salad<br />
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<b>Friday</b>: Tequila Lime Flank Steak Fajitas, homemade pico de gallo and guacamole, corn tortillas, cumin and chipotle spiced black beans<br />
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<b>Saturday</b>: <a href="http://ooh-look.blogspot.com/2011/04/datevaluetuesday-chicken-korma.html">Chicken Korma </a>, brown basmati rice<br />
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I hope everyone has a fantastic week. Make sure to head over to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">The Org Junkie</a> for more menu plans!Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-28941531301349887232011-04-16T13:45:00.000-07:002011-04-16T13:45:19.596-07:00Brick by BrickThis house. I swear it would come crashing down in seconds if either Alex or I turned our heads for just a minute. The things that these kids think up just astounds me. Remember the old saying, your parents' greatest revenge is you having kids....so.true.<br />
<br />
Just a few seconds ago, I found C2 wedging silverware that he had pilfered from the dishwasher (who the hell taught him to open that, anyhow?!) into the stem of the ficus tree and then scooping out the faux foliage around the base with a wooden spoon.<br />
<br />
The list of house rules that I've had to start assembling just keeps getting longer and more outrageous. Boys are so gross and kid boys are even worse!<br />
<br />
Want a little window into my reality?<br />
<br />
Here are a few of the latest, most relevant house rules:<br />
<br />
1. No peeing on your brother.<br />
<i>seems self explanatory, no?</i><br />
<br />
amendment 1:<br />
No peeing on your brother even if he peed on you first.<br />
<i>Ay. Have I mentioned that C1 is like, the best reasoner ever?He will totally follow in Alex's footsteps as a lawyer. I effin' hate it.</i><br />
<br />
2. You can only touch your own wiener.<br />
<i>Why on earth....</i><br />
<br />
3. Lotion does not belong on your wiener.<br />
<i> Well....until you're at least 10.</i><br />
<br />
4. OR BUTTHOLE!<br />
<i>Come on kids, work with me here.</i><br />
<br />
5. Your brother's diaper is not a toy receptacle.<br />
<i>...words don't even begin to explain the odd things I've found in his diaper.</i><br />
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Also, I learned recently that age 4 must be the universal boy stink age. We used to be able to get away with missing a bath every now and then. Now? I'm tempted to give him multiple baths per day.<br />
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They are so freakin' lucky they are cute.<br />
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<i>repost from Torts and Tarts.</i>Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-16357718167230527722011-04-16T13:24:00.000-07:002011-04-16T13:24:48.308-07:00Like Sands Through an Hourglass, These Are The Days of Our Lives...Or something.<br />
<br />
Surprise! I'm back!<br />
<br />
Bringing you lots of new recipes and stories about being a homeschooling, stay-at-home mother of two boys.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-28649715998480611292010-07-19T08:46:00.000-07:002010-07-19T08:46:50.864-07:00Menu Plan Monday - July 19<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/mpm-1.jpg" /> <br />
<br />
I haven't been neglecting you, Dear Readers...just been in a sort of funk. These past weeks have been filled with a lot of uninspired meals and flops. I've been trying to find a happy medium between my husband's extremely high calorie needs and my low calorie needs. Let's just say, I'm starting to get burnt out on smoothies.<br />
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Monday: <a href="http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/entrees-phase-1/144269-chicken-cheesesteak-saute.html">chicken cheese steak saute</a> (on hoagie rolls for the boys), mashed cauliflower, steamed garlic spinach<br />
<br />
Tuesday: shrimp with homemade marinara, angel hair pasta, spaghetti squash, grilled zucchini<br />
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Wednesday: <a href="http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2008/01/super-easy-crockpot-lasagna.html">crockpot lasagna</a> (best way to make it during the summer!!), veggie filled salad<br />
<br />
Thursday: <a href="http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2008/07/crockpot-thai-curry-recipe.html">crockpot Thai curry</a>, roasted broccoli<br />
<br />
Friday: <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2010/07/asian-glazed-drumsticks.html">Asian glazed chicken</a> (using breasts), spicy stir-fried green beans<br />
<br />
It has been so hot around here that the crockpot and grill have become our best friends! I'm planning on attempting a twist on the crockpot lasagna using butternut squash, sausage and sage come cooler weather.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-30887466782716995652010-06-24T07:29:00.000-07:002010-06-24T07:29:36.224-07:00Caprese Bites<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/004-7.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I made these as an adult snack for my son's 4th birthday party. They were such a hit! So very simple, but really tasty and fresh. It was a great way to showcase my garden's fresh basil and cherry tomatoes.<br />
<br />
<b>Caprese Bites</b><br />
<i>serves as many or as few as you wish!</i><br />
<br />
basil leaves<br />
cherry tomatoes<br />
small, fresh mozzarella balls (or cubed mozzarella)<br />
<br />
frilly toothpicks<br />
<br />
Take one frilly toothpick, thread a mozzarella ball, a basil leaf and a cherry tomato onto it. Repeat.<br />
<br />
See! Easy.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-50663442023566847682010-06-23T05:53:00.000-07:002010-06-23T06:32:21.561-07:00Menu Plan - June 21Like I mentioned yesterday, this week is a come-down from a really hectic past few weeks. I am still getting into the swing of it. <br />
<br />
So...I broke my menus up into specific days. My husband doesn't like to help plan menus unless he has something to aim for, and this is the easiest way I could think of to do that. We have sandwich night, soup night, 2 meatless nights, crockpot night and then 2 blanks to be used for whatever we feel like having. Obviously these aren't set in stone and will probably change from time to time, but it gives us something to shoot for.<br />
<br />
Monday: turkey and roast beef panini sandwiches, oven-baked sweet potato fries, salad<br />
<br />
Tuesday: turkey white bean chili, homemade salsa, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8_RQEKGN8o">jalapeno corn bread</a><br />
<br />
Wednesday: pinto beans and rice, homemade salsa, leftover <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8_RQEKGN8o">jalapeno corn bread</a><br />
<br />
Thursday: eggplant and tomato sauce with pasta, french bread, wilted spinach with garlic<br />
<br />
Friday: <a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/recipe/Crock-Pot-Creamy-Mexican-Chicken-Aka-Fiesta-Chicken-299527">creamy mexican chicken </a>(recipe will be changed to make it lighter), rice, green beans<br />
<br />
Saturday: <a href="http://the-nosh-pit.blogspot.com/2010/05/tex-mex-black-bean-salad.html">black bean salad</a> with grilled chickenLindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-47031847032649326262010-06-22T12:22:00.000-07:002010-06-22T12:22:49.411-07:00I'm still hereWe've been eating a buttload of take-out the past week or so. My mom was in town from Minnesota and my son had his 4th birthday party (hello, my name is over-planner). I'm a glutton for punishment apparently and ended up really overextending myself. I'm exhausted from staying up late so many nights sewing, baking and preparing. In the end, it was all worth it. He had an absolutely adorable birthday party that he just adored. I sewed him a pennant style birthday banner and can't wait to make more.<br />
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<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/PROOF_Candyland_Calvin4th_Lindsey.jpg" /><br />
His party had a Candy Land theme. This was the invitation.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/002-Copy.jpg" /><br />
In true Candy Land fashion...<br />
<br />
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/005-5.jpg" /><br />
His cake. What a disaster! It was so humid! The buttercream didn't want to crust and the fondant didn't want to set. Top tier was an all-natural, strawberry cake with a strawberry buttercream. Bottom tier was a homemade vanilla funfetti cake with vanilla buttercream. Both were very well received!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/006-8.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/011-2.jpg" /><br />
It was a hot day! All the kids were sweaty from jumping in the fun jump.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/013-3.jpg" /><br />
Even the heat didn't stop him from getting excited about the fun new toys!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/016-1.jpg" /><br />
My youngest had a blast picking up forgotten candy and finishing it off. His favorite were the ring pops -- sweet pacifiers!<br />
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I'll have a fresh new recipe, perfect for the Summer's heat up shortly! Don't miss it!Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-9136740674489141222010-06-15T06:54:00.000-07:002010-06-15T06:54:35.725-07:00Menu Plan...Tuesday<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/mpm-1.jpg" /> <br />
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With all the hustle and bustle preparing for my son's 4th birthday, I completely forgot about Menu Plan Monday yesterday. My mom is also coming into town to stay with us for a few days for his birthday, so I have double the stress.<br />
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Today is his actual birthday, and I'm sitting amongst a sea of wrapping paper and packaging. Every gift came with the proclamation "I always wanted that!" I have a feeling we're going to be watching Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles like 400thousand times today.<br />
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<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/002-7.jpg" /> <br />
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Monday: carnitas tacos, homemade salsa, black beans and rice<br />
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Tuesday: Incredible Pizza Company for C1's birthday<br />
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Wednesday: spaghetti and meatball soup (carryover from last week)<br />
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Thursday: grilled chicken and pesto pasta, salad<br />
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Friday: dinner out at <a href="http://www.bluedogcafe.com/">Blue Dog Cafe</a> (my mom's favorite restaurant down here)<br />
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I hope everyone has a fantastic week. I'm going to be busy busy until Saturday with C1's party, but I am trying to get new things up as I make them. I have a really great buffalo chicken wrap and some parmesan garlic pull-apart rolls that are to die for. Stay tuned!<br />
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As always, find more great menu plans at <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">Org Junkie</a>!Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-28797987123403592072010-06-13T11:45:00.000-07:002010-06-13T11:45:34.339-07:00Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/049.jpg" /> <br />
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My son really loves to cook. A few months ago, I bought him a kids cookbook. It's great except for the fact that most of the non-sweet foods are pretty bland...I guess that is why the recipes are considered kid food. I had a bunch of red-skinned potatoes leftover that needed to be used or thrown. I decided to make the potato soup in the kids cookbook. The picture in the book looked...white...and rather tasteless. I decided to jazz it up a bit, but still keep the recipe simple so he could help. My additions were simple but made for a really great, fast soup.<br />
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If you don't have an immersion blender, you can pour half the soup into a blender and then add it back to the pot. Be very careful when doing this. Hot liquids tend to explode out of the blender. Trust me on this. I would rather move than scrape black bean soup off of the ceiling again.<br />
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As for the sausage in the recipe, you're free to use what you wish. I used a pre-cooked habanero and monterey jack chicken sausage, but you could use a regular smoked sausage or even italian sausage. I would be interested to try vegetarian sausage crumbles as well.<br />
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<b>Spicy Sausage and Potato Soup</b><br />
<i>serves 6</i><br />
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2 links sausage (if using uncooked sausage, remove from casing), chopped <br />
1 1/2 lbs. potatoes, diced <br />
1 onion, chopped <br />
1 celery stalk, chopped<br />
1 clove garlic, minced<br />
2 cups chicken stock<br />
3 shakes hot sauce<br />
1/4 tsp. black pepper<br />
3/4 cup milk<br />
1 T. butter<br />
green onions and parsley to garnish<br />
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In a large saucepan over medium heat, brown the sausage. Add the potatoes, onions, celery, garlic, chicken stock, hot sauce and black pepper. Cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender.<br />
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When potatoes are tender, remove from heat. Run an immersion blender through it a few times until it is smooth, but still pretty chunky. You just want to make it kind of creamy. Add the milk and butter, stir until butter is melted. Serve with green onions and chopped parsley.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-33996225479669516062010-06-07T07:25:00.000-07:002010-06-07T07:25:43.412-07:00Menu Plan Monday - June 7<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/mpm-1.jpg" /> <br />
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Our week went very much not as planned last week so I have a lot of rollover meals plus a few new ones. I've been trying to rebudget our household, so I'm trying to see how small I can make our food budget. To save on food costs, I'm planning many more meatless meals and meals that can be stretched into one or two more meals.<br />
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My son is turning 4 in less than two weeks and I think I might have overextended myself just a smidge with all of the things I've planned for it. I need to get his birthday banner finished! Our meals this week reflect just how little time I have until his party.<br />
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Monday: dinner out to celebrate my son's birthday with his grandmother.<br />
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Tuesday: <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2010/04/homemade-manicotti.html">spinach and ricotta stuffed crespelles</a>, salad and <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/French-Bread/Detail.aspx">french bread</a><br />
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Wednesday: slow cooker pinto beans and sausage, brown rice, garden fresh green beans<br />
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Thursday: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/orzo-stuffed-peppers-recipe/index.html">stuffed bell peppers</a>, garden fresh cucumber and tomato salad<br />
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Friday: <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2008/03/meatball-and-spaghetti-soup-5-ww-pts.html">spaghetti and meatball soup</a>, <a href="http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,184,146185-246195,00.html%0A">garlic and parmesan pull-apart bread</a><br />
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Have a fantastic week! Enjoy that Summer heat!<br />
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For more great recipes, visit<a href="http://orgjunkie.com/"> OrgJunkie</a>.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-58780501306465615212010-06-05T08:00:00.000-07:002010-06-05T08:00:04.306-07:00Adobo Chicken Salad<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/031-1.jpg" /> <br />
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This is my go-to salad during the Summer. It's so light and crunchy, but the flavors really pack a fiery punch. The chicken is mildly spicy but the cool salad really balances it out and cools it down. The fruit in the salad keeps it refreshing. I have all kinds of ideas for this salad, including adding grilled peaches or nectarines. yum!<br />
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The chicken is best marinated for a full 24 hours, but in a pinch just an hour or two will do.<br />
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<b>Adobo Chicken Salad</b><br />
<i>Serves 4 as a main course</i><br />
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<i>For the marinade:</i><br />
Combine in food processor and process until smooth:<br />
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3 cloves garlic, smashed<br />
2 T. ground cumin<br />
2 T. chipotle chili powder<br />
2 T. dark brown sugar<br />
3 T. kosher salt<br />
3 T. freshly cracked black pepper<br />
1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh oregano<br />
1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro<br />
6 T. orange juice<br />
2 T. fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)<br />
4 dashes hot sauce<br />
2 T. olive oil<br />
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Pour over chicken breasts in a large, resealable bag and refrigerate until ready to use.<br />
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<i>For salad:</i><br />
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1 lb. chicken breasts, marinated in above marinade and grilled<br />
2 heads romaine lettuce, chopped<br />
1 red bell pepper, julienned<br />
1 15 oz. can black beans (optional)<br />
1 avocado, diced<br />
1 mango, diced<br />
2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half<br />
1 recipe poblano-cilantro dressing <br />
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Grill chicken, cover and let rest 10 minutes. slice thin.<br />
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Combine chopped romaine with bell pepper, black beans, avocado, mango and cherry tomatoes. Toss until thoroughly mixed.<br />
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Top with chicken and dressing.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-76913919383163751602010-06-04T07:04:00.000-07:002010-06-04T07:05:33.394-07:00Strawberry Sorbet<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/009-7.jpg" /> <br />
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If this doesn't just define Summer, then I don't know what does. It's so refreshing and the berries are so perfectly ripe. It is so much healthier than ice cream because it is essentially just fruit and a bit of natural sweetener, yet kids gobble it up. The bright red color is beautiful. This could go easily from a backyard BBQ to a fancy dinner party with just a small change in presentation.<br />
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You could make this without an ice cream maker, but I find that sorbets made by just blending the fruit and then freezing it are more granular than ones made with ice cream makers. You make the call. I, for one, know that my ice cream reservoir will remain in the freezer this summer just for this sorbet.<br />
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<b>Strawberry Sorbet</b><br />
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1 lb. strawberries, hulled and chopped (preferably organic)<br />
1/2 cup organic agave nectar<br />
1 T. fresh lime juice<br />
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Make sure the ice cream reservoir is completely frozen.<br />
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Hull your berries and roughly chop them. Add the berries, along with the agave nectar and lime juice to a blender. Blend thoroughly until smooth.<br />
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Add the berry puree to the ice cream reservoir and process according to the manufacturers instructions. When finished, put in the freezer for an hour or two to continue firming.<br />
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To make without an ice cream maker:<br />
Blend berries as instructed with agave nectar and lime juice. Place in a freezer safe, plastic or glass container and freeze until firm, stirring periodically.Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6354368294084604426.post-48483075147594150992010-06-03T08:00:00.000-07:002010-06-03T08:00:06.504-07:00Creamy Poblano-Cilantro DressingThis dressing is so amazing. It's cool and crisp with a kick from the poblanos. It's really great on salad, and also good with cut vegetables as a dip. I grow extra cilantro in the garden so I can make it a lot. It is so incredibly simple and comes together in minutes.<br />
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<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/Lindsey1/023-1.jpg" /> <br />
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I picked up this little dressing blender after I got my AeroGarden. It's the absolute best gadget ever. seriously. Add your dressing ingredients, hit button, eat. <br />
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<b>Creamy Poblano-Cilantro Dressing</b><br />
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<i>Combine in a blender or food processor and pulse until smooth:</i><br />
1 cup fresh cilantro<br />
1/2 poblano pepper, seeded and quartered<br />
1/4 cup plain yogurt<br />
1/4 cup low fat mayonnaise (not miracle whip)<br />
2 pinches of sugar<br />
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Use as desired....and you desire the adobo chicken salad I'm posting next!Lindseyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06723215389403432022noreply@blogger.com0