Faded Pickets

Chicken Pot Pie

2009-10-06T11:54:00.000-04:00

Here is a quick dinner idea that is delicious and the whole family loves it. I have used poached, roasted and store bought rotisserie chicken and each works equally is well. I have also used leftover roasted vegetables, but still use the veg-all mixed can veggies in addition to it (you need them for the flavor and texture.)This is my daughter's favorite dish. She could literally eat the whole

Quick and Easy Chicken ala King

2009-10-01T04:39:00.000-04:00

This is another of my daughter's "Comfort Foods." She could care less about the biscuits and will eat this like a thick soup. Even my son, will eat this! I use whatever chicken is available, but if cooking from scratch I poach chicken breasts on the bone and I add onion and carrots, then I use the carrots for the final dish.Chicken ala King1 package biscuits (your favorite biscuit)2 or 3

Mexican Skillet Casserole

2009-10-01T04:19:00.000-04:00

This is one of the most versatile recipes that I have. You can make it as a casserole (try topping it with your favorite cornbread mix and baking until golden brown.) You can also use it as a filling for tortillas, as a topping for taco salads, or as a hearty dip. Two jalapeños make it nicely spicy. I've also swapped out the ground meat for ground turkey breast and would highly recommend that.

Fish Tacos with Chipotle Sauce

2009-09-10T05:31:00.000-04:00

Delish! I crave these.Fish Tacos with Chipotle CreamFish:2 tablespoons olive oil2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice1/4 teaspoon saltFreshly ground black pepper1 pound white flaky fish fillet, like tilapia or halibut (I used Cod)Chipotle cream:1/2 cup plain nonfat yogurt2 tablespoons mayonnaise2 teaspoons chipotle pepper, in adobo sauce8 (6-inch) corn tortillas1 1/2 cups shredded green

Fusilli Caprese

2009-05-20T12:28:00.003-04:00

NOTE: This is a Giada recipe. This is the second time I have made this recipe. I wanted to make this tonight but didn't have mozzarella so I left it out. We actually liked it better without. I also added hot pepper flakes to taste and chopped fresh parsley along with the basil. I used a pound of spaghetti and tossed it in the pan that I cooked the tomatoes in. I added about 1/4 cup pasta liquid.

Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken

2009-03-17T05:21:00.000-04:00

1 1/2 cups sliced carrots1 large green pepper, chopped1 medium onion, chopped2 tablespoons quick cooking tapioca2 1/2-3 lb chicken, cut into serving size pieces1 (8 0unce) can pineapple chunks, in juice1/3 cup brown sugar1/3 cup vinegar1 tablespoon soy sauce1/2 teaspoon instant chicken bouillon1/4 teaspoon garlic powder1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger -or- 1/4 teaspoon ground gingerSalt and

Blueberry Corn Muffins

2009-02-07T07:13:00.001-05:00

Quick, easy and that good!We have no bread in the house. None. Joshua has taken peanut butter and marshmallow on saltines the past two days and Taylor used the last of the pita this morning. There is also no milk or makings for dinner, but that's another story.I really was having a craving for something yummy for breakfast, and thought about running to the bakery for a little treat, but

Corn Dip

2009-01-21T03:37:00.000-05:00

This dip is very easy and a nice alternative to the artichoke dip that has been so popular. I've had it with both tortilla chips and fritos and liked the fritos better. The next time I make it I want to ad a 4oz can of diced green chilis. Yum.2 small cans Mexi-Corn2 cups shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (or pepper jack for added heat)1 cup shredded parmesan cheese1 cup mayo (light or regular)1

RR's Cod Croquettes

2009-01-07T03:02:00.001-05:00

Cod CroquettesSalt1 lemon1 1/4 pounds fresh cod1/4 cup vegetable oil2 teaspoons seafood seasoning blend (2/3 palmful), such as Old Bay brand2 ribs celery and their greens, finely chopped1 small yellow onion, peeled and finely chopped2-3 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (a few sprigs), chopped3-4 tablespoons fresh flat leaf parsley (a handful), choppedBlack pepper1 egg2 cups plain breadcrumbsBring 1

Marsala Chicken with Sage and Cremini Mushrooms

2009-01-07T02:42:00.000-05:00

Marsala Chicken with Sage and Cremini Mushrooms 2 tablespoons all-purpose flourCoarse salt and ground pepper4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (6 to 8 ounces each)1 tablespoon olive oil10 ounces cremini mushrooms, trimmed and thinly sliced1 shallot, minced1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage, plus more for garnish1/2 cup sweet Marsala wine1/4 cup heavy cream1 tablespoon butterPlace

Slow Cooker Lasagna

2009-01-07T02:35:00.001-05:00

Slow Cooker Lasagna1 pound chuck or 1/2 pound chuck1/2 pound ground turkey1 tsp Italian seasoning1 28 oz jar spaghetti sauce (your favorite)1/3 cup water8 lasagna noodles1 4 1/2 oz can mushrooms1 15 oz carton ricotta cheese (optional)2 cups shredded mozzarella cheeseBrown meat and seasoning, drain.Mix spaghetti sauce and water. Place 4 uncooked noodles in lightly greased crockpot.Layer with beef

Pork Medallions with Orange Dijon Glaze

2008-12-03T15:39:00.000-05:00

I made this recipe up a long time ago...Use whatever cut of pork chops you have.Olive Oil1lb Pork Tenderloin, sliced into 1 1/2 inch medallions1 medium onion, sliced1/2 cup orange marmalade3 Tbls Grainy Dijon MustardSalt and PepperCombine orange marmalade and dijon mustard together, set aside. Season pork medallions with salt and pepper. Heat skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil to pan.

Chicken with Tomatoes and Cheese

2008-12-03T15:27:00.000-05:00

I usually call this PMS Chicken because I usually make it when I don't really feel like cooking but the family has to eat. Use what you have on hand...this is just a concept recipe.4 boneless, skinless chicken breast1 15oz can diced tomatoesseasonings - salt, pepper, basil, oregano, garlic salt (whatever you like)Mozzarella cheesePlace chicken breasts in 13 X 9 pan. Season with salt and Pepper

Three Cheese Pasta

2008-12-03T15:18:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I asked for some good and healthful dinner recipes. My friend Michele at Coffeesoup sent me a few that looked really yummy. This is one. I mean really anything that has garlic and oil and fresh spinach and chicken and cheese.....How can it be bad?1 teaspoon olive oilcooking spraysalt and pepper2 cloves crushed garlic3 cups chopped fresh spinach1 16 oz carton low fat cottage

Martha's Vegetable Enchiladas

2008-11-26T02:20:00.000-05:00

Vegetable Enchiladas2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for baking dishes2 teaspoons ground cumin1/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)1/4 cup tomato paste1 can (14 1/2 ounces) reduced-sodium vegetable brothCoarse salt and ground pepper3 cups grated pepper Jack cheese (12 ounces)1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained1 box (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed

Minestrone Soup

2008-11-24T13:06:00.000-05:00

Minestrone SoupOlive oil1 onion, chopped3 stalks celery, sliced5 carrots, sliced3 cloves garlic, diced4 links chicken sausage, optional2 cups fresh green beans1 tsp thyme1/2 tsp sage1 tsp basil2 bayleavessalt and pepper to taste1 28 oz can tomatoes8 cups stock ( 1 box veg, 1 box chicken)2 cups pasta (ditani)1 large zucchini, diced1 can cannelloni beans1 bag fresh spinachFreshly grated Parmesan

Tuna Melts

2008-11-24T13:04:00.000-05:00

Tuna Melts2 cans Tuna (your choice, I use albacore)1/4 cup light mayo1/4 cup cream cheese, I use light2 scallions, diced1 stalk celery, dicedsalt and pepper to tasteshredded cheese, (your choice, I used a colby blend)Thick sliced breadButter (or olive oil)Drain tuna, add remaining ingredients and mix well. Add more mayo if to thick. Spread between bread and sprinkle with cheese. Brush bread

Lizzies (fruitcake cookies)

2008-11-20T12:36:00.002-05:00

I have been looking for a satisfactory fruitcake cookie for decades, not knowing the name Lizzies. These are exactly what I have been looking for. Yum.Even if you do not like fruitcake, please try them.1 pound golden raisins1/2 cup bourbon1/4 cup sweet butter1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed2 eggs1 1/2 cups flour1 1/2 tsp baking soda1 1/2 tsp cinnamon1/2 tsp nutmeg1/2 tsp ground cloves1

Santa's Whiskers

2008-11-18T03:36:00.000-05:00

When I start thinking holiday, I think cookies. My absolute favorite cookie is:Santa’s WhiskersIt is a shortbread dough mixed with pecans, coconut and candied cherries. They seem only okay the first day (or two) but after the flavors mellow they are delicious. The dough can be made ahead and frozen into logs, then sliced and baked at your convenience. We usually give these as teacher

Weight Watchers Zero Point Soup

2008-11-12T01:41:00.000-05:00

3 cups broth (beef, chicken or vegetable)Cooking spray2 carrots, peeled and sliced1 large onion, diced2 large cloves garlic, minced1/2 head green cabbage, chopped1 cup fresh green beans1 tablespoons tomato paste1/2 teaspoon dried basil1/2 teaspoon dried oregano1/2 teaspoon kosher salt1 large zucchini, dicedSpray a large saucepan with cooking spray, saute carrot, onion and garlic and cook for

Deli Stromboli

2008-11-11T07:26:00.000-05:00

Not really any time to post today, so how about a recipe. We love this with a simple salad and a glass (or two) of wine... EnjoyDeli Stromboli2 tubes refrigerated french bread1/2 lb. sliced deli ham, divided1/4 lb. sliced hard salami, divided1/4 lb. sliced pepperoni, divided1/4 lb. sliced mozzarella cheese, divided1/4 lb. sliced provolone cheese1 c green pepper, sliced thin1/3 c. hot pepper

The Best Banana Bread Ever

2008-09-21T04:33:00.000-04:00

I can’t believe I haven’t posted this recipe before now. It must be here somewhere - miscategorized or something. Or, maybe it was one of my past blogs. Yeah, that’s probably it. This recipe is the best. Makes great take-along gifts, I’m taking one mini-loaf to Joshua's teacher today when I pick him up. You know…sucking up. Enjoy.• Banana Bread •Preheat oven to 350 degrees - Grease loaf pan (I

Vegetable Beef Soup

2008-09-10T04:25:00.000-04:00

I can not believe I haven't posted this recipe yet. I know it by heart, but everytime I need to make it I cannot find the recipe card. Odd, huh. This is a keeper, and oh so simple. I usually double it, but I am posting the original recipe.1 pound ground beef1 large onion, chopped1 cup carrots, sliced1 cup celery, sliced2 cups potatoes, diced1 28oz can diced tomatoes4 cups water1 tsp kitchen

Harvest Apple Bread

2008-09-04T11:52:00.001-04:00

This is one of those recipes you find and you love and you make it alot, I can tell. I just found the recipe this past weekend and have already made it three times, and couldn't wait to blog about it. Harvest Apple Bread1 1/2 cups flour1 tsp. cinnamon1/2 tsp. baking soda1/4 tsp. baking powder1/4 tsp. salt1 cup sugar1 cup peeled, shredded apple (one large apple does the trick—I usually use a Gala

Ham and Swiss Casserole

2008-08-30T15:57:00.000-04:00

This is yet another Gooseberry patch country quick cook recipe - yeah, i know, but I told you menu planning wasn't my greatest organizational skill. Besides, these are all quick cooks and I am busy this week. The family is lucky it's not cereal. I am serving it with fresh steamed broccoli.8 oz sour cream12 oz package shredded swiss cheese; divided8 oz package macaroni, cooked3 cups cooked ham,

Quick Salisbury Steak

2008-08-29T15:52:00.000-04:00

Before I even make this I know that my son will not touch it...but, I don't cook for his taste anyway, I will pull aside some of the beef and just cook him up a hamburger and some tater-tots. This one is for my daughter, she is a beef eater. We are still quick cooking this week so hopefully this will be good? I am serving it with smashed new potatoes and sugar snap peas. this is another

Italian Turkey Sausage Subs

2008-04-26T05:22:00.000-04:00

It's ten o'clock in the morning and I am eating last night's leftover Turkey Italian Sausage Sub for breakfast. It is so good that it is all I could think about this morning so instead of waiting for lunch, I am eating half now. I think it is my top five of things I like to eat. Maybe even top three, yes, it's that good.Of course if Turkey Sausage is not available, I am sure these would be

Blonde Brownies

2008-04-24T12:16:00.001-04:00

This is a recipe that I found in a church cookbook from a church I use to attend in Texas, I've been making them for about 14 years. They are light and tender.Blonde Brownies2 Cups All-Purpose Flour2 Teaspoons Baking Powder1/4 Teaspoon Salt1/2 Cup Butter2 Cups Brown Sugar2 Eggs1 Teaspoon Vanilla1 Cup Walnuts or Pecans, choppedPreheat oven to 350 degrees, grease a 9" X 13" panCombine flour,

Winter Vegetable Casserole

2008-04-24T05:28:00.000-04:00

This is my favorite GO-TO casserole for "special family gatherings." I make it for Easter and I usually make it for either Thanksgiving or Christmas. I love it. Love it. It also has a very beautiful presentation. I think I cut the recipe out of an old First magazine like 14 years ago. Winter Vegetable Casserole1 Head Cauliflower, separated into flowerets1 Head Broccoli, separated into

Easy (and flourless) Peanut Butter Cookies

2008-04-23T11:18:00.002-04:00

1 Cup Peanut Butter1 egg1 cup Sugar (brown or regular) * I usually knock this back to 1/2 cup.1 teaspoon baking sodaMix ingredients together. Scoop onto cookie sheet. Do the Peanut Butter Cookie criss cross with the fork, and bake for 10 to 12 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven.Let cool for 2 minutes on tray, then move to rack to set up.Makes 24 cookies. (WW) 2 Points Each

Black Bean Salad

2008-04-22T13:57:00.000-04:00

I've been making this recipe for years after I found it on the back of a Progresso black bean label. My family loves this salad. I usually make it to serve as an appetizer with Tortilla chips or as a topper for grilled chicken. My husband and I have been known to use the leftovers (both salad and chicken) on a bed of salad greens with a southwest style dressing for a quick, healthy lunch.

Quick Bake Penne with Sausage

2008-04-21T05:56:00.000-04:00

My family loves pasta, even Joshua is starting to appreciate the noodle. We also love Turkey Italian Sausage, it is like the quick food go to in my house. Hum, Turkey Sausage Subs, Turkey Sausage Pizza, Some Turkey Sausage Vege-Noodle thing we made up (recipes coming) and now last night a Rachael Ray Recipe for Penne with Turkey Sausage. This another one of those recipes I pulled from one of

Sirloin with Mushrooms Over Noodles

2008-04-20T08:10:00.000-04:00

Last month I was in Atlanta visiting my sister and I picked this recipe up from one of her books. Taylor loves this type of cooking so it looked like something that would be a winner. I think it came from a Weight Watchers Cookbook, but I forgot to write down the name....and the points.I finally got around to making it last night as I was looking for something that I could prepare mostly ahead

Indian Spiced Braised Chicken

2008-04-19T05:06:00.000-04:00

I've never purchased the magazine Everyday Foods before, well that's not true, I did purchase a special copy that had kid friendly recipes one time. The April issue boasted the Top 10 Chicken recipes, and be honest, who isn't always looking for another way to cook chicken? I enjoyed looking through the magazine and even dog-earred a few recipes that I wanted to try. I thought it interesting

BBQ Chicken Pizza

2008-04-19T04:02:00.000-04:00

I made a few new recipes this weekend, one of them was BBQ Chicken Pizza - it was quite yummy! Here’s the recipe:2 tablespoons olive oil1/2 pound chicken tenders2/3 cup barbecue sauceFlour, for dusting surface1 pizza dough3/4 cup shredded Gouda1 cup shredded mozzarella3/4 cup shredded Parmesan1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leavesPreheat oven to 500

Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookies

2008-03-28T05:28:00.001-04:00

With a name like that, Jumbo CCC's, who wouldn't want to try them, Yum-o is right. This recipe came out of Rachael Ray's April 2007 issue, making cookies with things you usually have on hand. I had Joshua help me. The recipe was quick and the cookies enormous - which we all loved. They were a bit to sweet, I can't believe I just said that, but a bit too sweet after the first bite, but as my

Date Nut Bars

2008-03-20T08:11:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I went to a women's luncheon with the group of women who I do Bible study with; at the end of every book we have a pot luck and just sit and eat and laugh. There is always at least one recipe that I "Just Have to Have." This one I actually asked for and then never received, so yesterday I called her on the phone to get it. They are that good. And easy. Although, they are not

Creamy Lemon Nut Bars

2008-03-05T03:00:00.000-05:00

Creamy Lemon Nut Bars1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or margarine, softened1/3 cup powdered sugar2 tsp. vanilla1-3/4 cups flour, divided1/3 cup pecans, chopped1 pkg. (8 oz.)cream cheese, softened2 cups granulated sugar3 eggs1/2 cup lemon juice1 Tbsp. grated lemon peel1 Tbsp. powdered sugarPREHEAT oven to 350F. Line 13×9-inch baking pan with foil; spray with cooking spray. Mix butter, powdered sugar and

Chicken Chili and White Beans

2008-02-05T07:15:00.000-05:00

I am having last night's dinner for lunch today, which means it must be good since we don't do leftovers. At least not the next day. Also, there were two big servings left and I decided I would have half of one serving and am now heating up seconds....of lunch. That good was last night's dinner. I feel compelled to share.Chicken Chili and White Beans1 Tbls Oil1 Onion,chopped2 Cloves Garlic,

Carrot Cake Muffins

2008-01-26T08:11:00.001-05:00

These muffins really are yummy, but they are not sweet (at all) like store bought muffins. They are very moist and dense and almost addicting, (especially if you splurged and added a cream cheese icing, oh my). The only thing I would do different next time is add some Wheat Germ to the tops to give a bit of crunch and boost the fiber content a bit more....Anyway, a very healthy way for kids to

RR’s Buffalo Chicken Chili

2008-01-12T07:20:00.000-05:00

I made this for dinner the other night. It was good, but next time I think I would experiment with another type of hot sauce. I used Texas Pete's because I don't find it as spicy as others and I was serving it to my daughter who does not do spice, but I think the Texas Pete's may have left a bitter taste. I also think I would add the hot sauce to the end of the recipe. Next time I would also

Welcome to Faded Pickets

2008-01-01T18:38:00.000-05:00

I live in a little cottage style house six blocks off the ocean. It has four bedrooms, two baths, a detached garage with a half bath and a pool. It’s really sounds impressive on paper, but in reality the house has been a “work in progress” ever since I met my now husband in 1998. Back then the house was, um, how do I say, in need of major TLC. I wish I would have thought to have taken pictures

Tuscan Chicken Sausage Stew

2006-08-26T08:33:00.001-04:00

Last weekend I was at my sisters in Georgia. Usually when I am at my sisters I look at any magazines or new cookbooks she purchased since my last visit. This usually takes place sitting at the breakfast table while she is finishing up….lunch….dinner….. (yes I help with prep and clean-up) I usually come home with two or three new recipes to try. This one caught my eye because it had the word

Random Grilled Cheese

2006-08-23T08:37:00.001-04:00

Last night I was watching Ham on the Street on the food network. He was playing grilled cheese lotto. You pick a bread, a cheese, and a jelly at random and turn it into a grilled cheese sandwich.Now I have a terrible craving for Challah with Havarti and Strawberry Preserves.Ewww, how about a cheese bread with monterey jack cheese and pepper jelly,Or, A thick white bread with swiss, maybe sneak in

Fudge Brownies Supreme

2006-07-25T08:40:00.001-04:00

Last week I was browsing my reads and happened upon Cookie Madness just as she was discussing fudge brownies. I tried to resist, really I did. I told the hub I wanted to make the brownies, because really who isn't looking for the ultimate brownie? Then I decided against it. We do not need a pan of brownies laying around the house! I decided I would just go to the bakery and get a treat for Joshua

Pimiento Cheese

2006-07-15T08:54:00.001-04:00

I pulled this recipe from Alicat at Very Good Things. She credits it to Paula Deen and so, so will I. I don't even like Pimiento Cheese and I couldn't stop eating it. I put it on everything! It is awesome with some scrambled eggs.Pimiento Cheese Recipe courtesy Paula Deen1 (8-ounce) package shredded sharp Cheddar1 (8-ounce) package shredded white Cheddar1 (4-ounce) jar pimientos, with juice1/

Fruit Salsa and Cinnamon Chips

2006-07-15T08:49:00.001-04:00

My intention while the hub was away this past two weeks was to eat healthy and light and maybe drop a pound or two while he was gone. --> Can you see my eyes rolling? <--Then I checked in at Very Good Things and saw Alicat's Pimento Cheese Spread. Funny thing is that I am not really fond of it? But, as soon as I saw the recipe I craved it. I've been eating it all week with wheat thins, on

Chocolate Raspberry Bars

2006-06-07T09:13:00.001-04:00

Sunday has become lounge by the pool and cook out on the grill day at my house. Not that we haven't been doing it about three to four times a week, but on Sunday we have all day. I swear some days it feels as though we are on permanent vacation, cept the Hub has to work.Anyway, in honor of Sunday I made dessert. Because, you know, you need a reason to make dessert!Chocolate Raspberry Bars1 1/2

Gramma F's Molasses Cookies

2006-05-26T04:15:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I was having a bit of a pity party. I didn’t post the entry, but made cookies instead. Joshua helped. We now have lots of cookies. Cookies always heal what ails you!Gramma F’s Molasses Cookies3/4 Cup Shortening1/4 Cup Molasses1 Egg2 Cups All-Purpose Flour1 Cup Sugar1 Teas. Baking Soda1 Teas. Ground Ginger1/2 Teas. Salt1 Teas. CinnamonMix shortening, egg, molasses together in one bowl.

Rachael's Quick Chicken Cacciatori

2006-05-24T04:12:00.001-04:00

I dusted off one of my 30 Min Meals cookbooks and cooked up something quick easy and yum-o for dinner last night. Of course I cannot just use a cook book, it is a guide for me, I add, subtract and make each recipe my own. I think RRay does the same thing, as this recipe from the website is not the same as in her book. I am posting my changes as well. It is worth heating up the stove!Quick Chicken

Frittata with Potato and Prosciutto

2006-05-08T09:17:00.001-04:00

It's Monday!We've had a busy week and weekend and I am exhausted. I really am not ready to start another week, but another week is starting.Saturday night we had the Greg's parents over for a light supper and then we went to the church for a children's musical..(I volunteer in the children's choir every Wednesday.. and this was the big ending to the season) The children were awesome. So was

BBQ Chicken Pizza

2006-04-19T09:20:00.001-04:00

My sister and brother in law were here this past weekend... The time always seems so short doesnt it, when family and loved ones come for a visit. I miss her already.We crammed as much stuff as we could into the weekend, going shopping, playing with the kids, going out to eat, chatting.... It was fun - but three/four days being out of routine takes its tole on everyone. Yesterday was so busy,

Fudge Ecstasies

2006-02-05T03:08:00.001-05:00

These are a Chocolate Lover’s Dream I posted these a few years ago. They are very - very yummy!Fudge EcstasiesPreheat oven 350 degrees.1 12-ounce Package Semisweet Chocolate Pieces (2 cups)2 Squares Unsweetened Chocolate (2 ounces)2 Tablespoons Butter2 Eggs2/3 Cup Sugar1/4 Cup Flour (yes, only 1/4 cup)1 Teaspoon Vanilla1/4 Teaspoon Baking PowderPinch of Salt1 Cup Nuts, chopped fineIn a medium