Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Everything in Between!

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October 31, 2009

Catyra's Power Breakfast with Oats! O.o

This is a breakfast that will give you energy to burn later. Go oats!

Plus you can dress your oats up by adding your favorite fruits or berries. Mmm, blueberries! This is another great reason (besides pancakes) to keep frozen blueberries on hand. Just toss them in during step one and they will heat while your oats cook.

What you need:
1 cup of Oatmeal
1 to 1-1/3 cups of water (or milk to make it creamier)
1 egg
1-3 teaspoons of cinnamon (to taste)
**optional** blueberries, apples, whatever...to taste! XD

Step 1. Microwave a cup of regular oatmeal with the water, on high for 2.5 minutes.

**Add frozen fruit here.

Step 2. Remove and add the egg in your oat. Stir vigorously to evenly disperse the egg. It should look cloudy.

Step 3. Stir in your cinnamon (no sugar).

Step 4. Microwave for another 2.5 minutes.

Step 5. Remove and add some milk (to make it a creamier, and slightly less sticky concoction) and anything else you want. You can add some fruit or real maple syrup.

Catyra writes, "You now have whole grains, two sources of protein, and nutrients from any toppings you added. Serve with orange juice for added morning kick and day-long energy. Best thing is, all natural and healthy.

Just don't add any sugar or anything containing corn syrup or you've just counteracted the whole purpose of the meal."

Gooey and Delicious! Caramel Apples

Caramel apples are pretty easy to make, but if you're like me then you might want to place some paper bags or something on your counter and floor to catch the drips.



What you need for a Basic Caramel Apple Recipe:
6-8 Apples (I like using green Granny-Smiths, and Washington apples)
Wooden popsicle sticks
1-1/2 cups Brown sugar
1-1/2 tablespoons of Butter
6 tablespoons of Milk
1/2 teaspoon of Vanilla Extract
1/2 to 1 cup of peanuts, mini baking chocolates, or whatever other chopped up topping that you would like.

**Tip** To save yourself a little hassle you could buy a bag of caramels and skip the above ingredients. The downside is that you have to unwrapped the little suckers before you melt the caramel. Also, you still will want to add a little liquid--approximately 2 tablespoons worth.

The other nice thing about buying premade caramels is that they often come with popsicle sticks in the bags.

Step 1. Get your apples ready ahead of time.

a. Wash them and remove the waxy coating. You can do this by dipping them very quickly in boiling water then wipe the wax off. Fit vegetable spray works okay, but the boiling dip works better.

b. Chill the apples in the fridge for at least an hour before you want to dip them.

Step 2. Now that you have washed and chilled apples, you are ready to set up your station.

a. Make sure your nuts and other toppings are chopped and place in a mixing bowl.

b. Line a flat pan (cookie sheet) with wax-paper (to place the apples on once they are coated.

Step 3. In a suacepan mix your ingredients.

** If you are using pre-made caramels, add in the unwrapped candies/milk. Melt these on low heat.

Step 4.
Cook on medium heat until approximately 235 degree Fahrenheit. Remove from heat.

Step 5. Dip your apples, turning them in the caramel.

After you dip the apple you are working with in the caramel, quickly dip into your toppings. Then place on the wax sheet.

Step 6. One each of the apples are coated and topped, you must refrigerate them for another hour. Keep them stored in the fridge as well.

Check out Mahalo for more caramel apples recipes and tips. The chocolate caramel recipe on that page sounds sinfully delicious!

October 30, 2009

Easy Tortellini Soup

This soup was inspired by Goodlee's recipe for AB Cappin' Cappaletti Soup. Really, chicken broth soups are very versatile. You can throw practically whatever you'd like into them. For instance, try chicken broth with some mushroom, onions, and tomatoes.



The recipe below calls for tortellinis, but you can substitute that with other pasta if you'd like.

What you need:
1 can of chicken broth (I like the low sodium, so I can salt to taste).
1 good handful of frozen tortellini
Some frozen veggies (Whatever you have on hand...I used some corn and greenbeans.)

Season with salt, pepper, garlic, grated parmesan cheese,and dried mince onions to taste.

Step 1. Pour ingredients (except for veggies) into a saucepan.

Step 2. Cover and bring to a boil. Turn the burner to medium low. Cook for about 7-10 minutes.

Step 3. Add in the veggies, and simmer for another 5 minutes.

That's it. This will make a bowl and a half of soup in a pinch.


Variation: Spice it up with some Jalapeno slices, a can of drained chili ready tomatoes, 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of chili powder, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoons of cumin.




Soup Recipes: Chicken Soup made Easy! AB Cappin' Cappaletti Soup, Easy Tortellini Soup, Easy Vegetarian Minestrone Soup, Helfire Boar Stewin' with Berlena, Monti's Crock Pot Ready Tortilla Soup, Mair's Super-Simple Taco Soup, Linsha's Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup.



Crock Pot Recipes and Tips: Grizelle's Pulled-Pork Crock-Pot Recipe, Advantages of Crock Pots, by Grizelle and Zonoma, Helfire Boar Stewin' with Berlena, Monti's Crock Pot Ready Tortilla Soup, Merry Making Peach and Apricot Hot Cider.

Cinnamonny Goodness: Easy Applesauce IRL

Mmm... Nothing says fall like warm apple-filled treats.

Applesauce is easy to make and worth the extra effort that you'd exert instead of opening a premade jar.



Really, this isn't fixing the global economy. It's simply based on the ancient process of boiling fruit in a little sugar-water. So if you're new to the kitchen try this recipe, and impress your mates. The nice thing is that if you boil it on low enough heat you have a few minutes of lee-way for gaming.

What you need:
A bunch of Apples (8-10).
Cinnamon. Use about 1-1/2 tablespoons ground if you like it nice and cinnamonny.
1/2 to 1 cup of Sugar. You can use 1/2 brown and half white; I like to use 1/2 cup of brown sugar, packed.
1 cup of Water
1/2 teaspoon Salt
2-3 squirts of lemon juice (fresh or the stuff sitting in the fridge).

Step 1. Peel, core, and quartered your apples. I like to mix the apples in sauces and pie recipes. Try a mix of 2 Golden Delicious, 2 Granny Smith, 2 Fuji, and 2 Gala.)

Step 2. Place your apple slices in a large pot.

Step 3. Squirt with the lemon juice. This just helps stop the apples from browning, and can bring out the flavor of the apples.

Step 4. Add the water, cinnamon, sugar, and salt. Stir to coat.

Step 5. Bring to boil. Lower the heat and let the mix simmer for 20-30 minutes.

Step 6. Remove from heat. Mash with potato masher or large spoon.

Ready to serve, either hot or chilled.

Eat some now, and freeze some for later! :)

Variations: Try with a little vanilla bean extract (about 1/2 teaspoon cooked in during step 4). Also try swapping out the gala apples with a few pears. Mmmm!

October 03, 2009

Spicy Wolf Kabobs, by Tweaks

Here is a recipe submission from Tweaks. Check out her blog "What's for Dinner?" for more recipes including: Pumpkin Spice Bars, and Chicken Curry Casserole.

Now back to the Spicy Wolf Kabobs...Talk about yummy! If you're having a carnivorous craving, be sure to try these kabobs.



Skipping the meat? Substitute yours with eggplant, tomatoes, and mushrooms.

Tweaks writes, "Last week I made some shish kabobs; they were really fun and easy to make. The prep took a while, but it can be done the night before."

**Note on Marinades** Most grocers carry pre-made marinades that are delicious. Often these are found the ethnically themed aisles, but I have also seen some near the premixed spice-pouches.

My favorite of the marinades atm, is MINS Korea House Bul Go Gi marinade. It is produced by a local restaurant and is sold at the local grocery store (you never know what you'll find!).

You can easily make your own rub for your kabobs, or try a spice-pouch. Mmm...taco kabobs!



Easy, Fun, Fast.


The prep time can be consuming if you're cutting things by hand. Try using the Vidalia Chop Wizard.

TBH, I want to try the "Slap Chop," it looks a little ridiculous--but I am down for smacking things as I cook!



Particularly if there were a guy looking that smug in my kitchen...After all, he does note that "You can slap your troubles away." I think I could muster a slap or two...for the device. <----Yeah right!

P.S. YTMND fans have fun with the linked video. "You're gonna love my nuts!"

What you need to make Tweak's Kabob's:

Skewer sticks, Meat, Peppers, Onion, Pineapple, Marinades.

Step 1. Soak skewers before use.

Step 2. Cut food in square shapes.

Step 3. Stick your foods onto the skewer and grill for about 10 minutes.



P.S. Please don't poke your gf with the sticks. She does not like that much. TY.

September 10, 2009

End of Summer Vegetarian-Friendly Pesto Sandwich

This is one yummy sounding submission. It is especially good if you are looking for a lighter or meatless sandwich.

Bart de Snoo writes, "This is damn tasty as lunch but somehow it doesn't work as dinner or snack."

What you need:
2 Kaiser Bread Rolls or any bread rolls as long as it isn't soft.
4 Slices of Tomato
4 Thin Slices of Mozzarella.
4 or 5 Teaspoons of a thick Pesto

**Tip** Add some pepper after you grill this sandwich. It's fantastic!

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees (F).,

Step 2: Cut your bread roll in half horizontally, so you get a top and a bottom half. The top half is of no use since they aren't stable enough under the grill.

Step 3: Put the pesto on the bottom half and make sure you cover the surface with the pesto. Next, put the tomato slices on top of the Pesto. Lastly, add the Mozzarella on top of it all.

Step 4: Put your creation in the oven and let it stay there for about 8 minutes or until the mozzarella starts to turn brown.

Yum!



More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Verminfate's Hawaiian American Combo, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Brogah's Open-Face Turkey Sammie Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, Toasty Cheddar and Salami Sammich! The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Classic and Healthy Chicken Sandwich, Baked Bacon Bites The Golden Blanket Sandwich Tasty Turkey Melt.

September 06, 2009

Baked Bacon Bites

These bacon croissants were a yummy little treat.



What you need:
1 tin of Pillsbury Crescent dough
5-7 pieces of bacon, cooked but not too crispy
Cream Cheese
2-4 tablespoons of melted butter to coat these before baking
**Optional** A handful of washed plum tomatoes

This recipe will make 6-8 of these snacks.

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350. If your bacon is not cooked already, do so now. For tips on cooking bacon, check out the post "How to Cook Perfect Bacon."

Step 2. Open the Crescent tin. The really nice thing about this dough is that it is easy to work with the perforations, or you can pinch them together to make a larger dish.

Step 3. Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of cream cheese onto the crescent dough.

Step 4. Add 1 to 1-1/2 slices of the bacon, ripped up onto the cream cheese.

Step 5. Add 2-3 washed plum tomatoes. You can cut them or leave them whole.

Step 6. Close the Crescent dough.

Step 7. Brush the outside of the dough with the melted butter.

Step 8. Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes, on a cookie sheet. They will turn golden-brown when finished.

Yum! It's a little naughty, but so worth it. ;)



More Breakfast Ideas: Nubcakes! Aka Whole Wheat Banana Pancakes, Blueberry Nubcakes! Elwynn Forest Lumberjack Special, aka Crepes by Randalflagg, Kiethras's Breakfast Tubers, Sausage and Eggs, Grizzly Frontier Special! Aka Western Style Omelet, Simple Fruits, Great Taste! Telaari Grape Salad, Tundra Berry Salad, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich, Baked Bacon Bites Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! How to Cook Perfect Bacon, Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr, Mmm Coffee!


More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Verminfate's Hawaiian American Combo, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Brogah's Open-Face Turkey Sammie Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, Toasty Cheddar and Salami Sammich! The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Classic and Healthy Chicken Sandwich, Baked Bacon Bites The Golden Blanket Sandwich Tasty Turkey Melt.

Brogah's Open-Face Turkey Sammie

This is something I usually snack on while playing WoW since I have a microwave on the desk next to my monitor. It's toasty, melty, and delicious! Try one for your next sandwich.

2 slices of Multi-grain Bread (I usually use Franz 12 grain), toasted.
Very thinly sliced Sundried Tomato Turkey cold cuts, 4-6 slices depending on their size and your hunger. Sometimes the seasoned turkey slices are smaller than other cold cuts.
Shredded Provolone Cheese.
Crushed Kalamata olives (Usually misspelled as Klamata).

Making open-faced sandwiches:
Step 1. Place the turkey on the bread

Step 2. Add a generous portion of the olives.

Step 3. Finally top it with the cheese.

Step 4. Nuke until the cheese has melted.

That's it!


**Tip** I drape the turkey back and forth across the bread instead of laying the slices flat. Sort of that deli style look if you know what I mean.



More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Verminfate's Hawaiian American Combo, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Brogah's Open-Face Turkey Sammie Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, Toasty Cheddar and Salami Sammich! Baked Bacon Bites The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Classic and Healthy Chicken Sandwich, The Golden Blanket Sandwich Tasty Turkey Melt.

Spice it up with Catyra

Start building your own basic set of herbs and spices. You can cook so much with just the basics. I'm starting my collection off with tumeric, paprika, oregano, onion powder, and garlic powder. This gives you great diversity and you will probably only have to add one or two spices at a time when finding a new recipe.

Why garlic POWDER? Better yet, why not have some seasoning salt? These contain large amounts of salt in premixed amounts, which you should try not to overuse. Although salt is essential to keep in your diet, try to watch yourself for a week or two to see how much you are actually consuming. Salts are often overused in packaged foods, as well as in some restaurants. Where I used seasoning salt in the past, today I use a mix of paprika, ground mustard, tumeric, onion and garlic powders, salt, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper instead. Try this seasoning mix with kielbasa, some horseradish and toss in a few onions and potatoes. Yum!

**Interesting side note** Just to give you an idea of the great diversity of the spices I listed, I made an almost exact clone of the instant ramen seasoning, except I didn't have any bouillon or chives. The difference is barely noticeable. Check the ingredients on the pack, a lot goes into it.



Also check out the post "Which spices you should always have on hand" for some more basic spicing ideas.

Catyra's Kielbasa and Spinach Sandwich

These are basically a nice twist on the classic kielbasa and kraut sandwich. Try one of these sausage and spinach grills.

This recipe will serve 2 people, or you can be selfish and eat both sandwiches yourself!

What you need:
4 slices of Whole Wheat bread
4oz Kielbasa (I prefer turkey, Eckridge brand)
1/2 cup freshly chopped Spinach
Butter (use the real stuff!!!)
Your favorite Cheese! About 4 slices worth.

Seasonings--choose your own, but sour and spicy taste great with kielbasa. Think of mustard and horseradish for this one. Or you can use: Fresh ground peppercorns when sauteing the kielbasa. Oregano (very small amount) on top of the spinach during assembly. The oregano really adds a lot of flavor to this dish, but can easily be overwhelming. Remember, herbs are great in this case.


Step 1. Slice the kielbasa into very thin slices, the final product should look like a bunch of meaty coins.

Step 2. Saute the kielbasa slices in a pan with some butter (high heat, you're trying to quickly sear the meat to brown it). Set the meat aside for now.

Step 3. Now to assemble the sandwiches. Take two slices of bread and place your first unit of cheese on both slices. I prefer Swiss for this bottom side.

Step 4. Spread your kielbasa slices evenly over the cheese, but leave a centimeter on each side so the sandwich closes.

Step 5. Place your spinach on the slices, then add any seasonings you prefer. Top with another unit of cheese and close both sandwiches with the other slices of bread.

**Note** Both cheeses can be fine shredded or sliced, as long as they aren't too bulky.

Step 6. Take a large pan, enough to fit 2 sandwiches side by side comfortably in. Turn the heat to medium high and when it is heated, add in enough butter to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. Obviously this varies depending on the size of your pan, just don't drown your sandwiches. Start grilling!

**Tip** Every once in a while you can rotate the sandwiches around the pan to prevent burning/sticking, then when you're ready to flip, just remove briefly and re-butter the pan. They should have the dark brown, almost black look on both sides and the cheese should make the sandwiches stick together, despite the fillings.


It's not a ton of work, and is really quite fun if you enjoy cooking. I really hope you enjoy cooking if you are reading this, otherwise, you best stick with your hot pockets and Pepsi. The result is quite rewarding, and healthy to boot.



More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Verminfate's Hawaiian American Combo, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Brogah's Open-Face Turkey Sammie Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, Toasty Cheddar and Salami Sammich! The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Classic and Healthy Chicken Sandwich, The Golden Blanket Sandwich Tasty Turkey Melt.

August 22, 2009

Tasty Tropical Smoothies, by Danneskjold

This is a recipe for a yummy fruity smoothie (WITH DETAILS! =P) that Danneskjold's sixth grade teacher used to make.

Ingredients:
Papaya
Mango
Passionfruit
Pineapple
Cool Whip
Sprinkles (optional).

**Tip** This tastes best with fresh fruit, and local (if possible! lol). If not, frozen will work fine.

Step 1. Take half a papaya, and scoop as much out as you can. Although it may be a bit obvious, but I thought I'd point out that you should also get rid of the seeds. Use the juices and flesh only.

Step 2. Use approximately 3 spoonfuls of mango (if it is strong; if not, add a little more).

Step 3. Add in 1 whole passion fruit. Remove the skin (it's bitter tasting). Although you can eat the seeds, I'd recommend just using the flesh and juices.

Step 4. Add in 5 cubic inches pineapple (estimate). If you don't think that you will use the rest of the pineapple, try substituting this with a small can of pineapple tidbits.

Step 5. Blend! (Lol)

Step 6. Put cool whip on top and freeze. Your smoothie should be nice and consolidated after about 15-25 minutes in the freezer.

If you're feeling happy, or need a pick me up, throw some sprinkles on top!

Krizak's Redneck Shepard's Pie

Krizak writes, "This is more of a trailer park thing than a gamer one, but I love it so I thought I'd share. It's a variation on "Chili Pie." I call it Redneck Shepard's Pie."

It really has a little bit of this and that, making this a tasty dinner selection. Kudos Krizak!

Ingredients:
1 can Chef Boyardee Lasagna
1 can Chef Boyardee Beefaroni
1 can Dinty Moore Beef Stew
1 bag Fritos
1 bag (any variety) Doritos
1 box Kraft Mac and Cheese.


Step 1. Crush the Fritos and Doritos into crumbs, and line bottom of a pie pan or casserole dish. This is especially fun to do if you just were ganked/camped!

Step 2. Mix your crushed chips with a little melted butter (this will make shaping the bottom crust easier).

Step 3. Mix in your Lasagna, Beefaroni, and stew.

Step 4. Bake in the oven on 350 for 25 minutes. While baking, prepare mac and cheese with MILK INSTEAD OF WATER. I usually add a touch of garlic to my mac and cheese as well.

Step 5. Once the pie is done baking, use an icing spatula to spread mac and cheese over the top, as the top crust.

Step 6. Return to oven for 10 minutes to allow top to brown.

Enjoy!



More Pasta Ideas!
Manicotti Made Easy, Spinach and Sausage Mostaccioli, WoW Ziti Dinner, Midsummer Special! Spinach Ziti, Krizak's Redneck Shepard's Pie Nubsauce, My Favorite Ravioli, Chicken and Mushroom Linguine, FTW Lasagna, North American Goulash.

The Golden Blanket Sandwich, by Shaidao

I have to admit, this sounds like uberiffically good. And I will have to make it sometime.

Shaido writes, "This is a extremely simple snack/meal to make that is sure to satisfy your appetite."


Ingredients:
Olive Oil
Unsliced loaf of Fresh Bread
Cheese (It doesn't really matter what kind, just use your favorite!)
Bacon (You can use really any greasy, non healthy, meaty food. :P)
Creamy Caesar Dressing (If you don't have Caesar on hand, try this with Ranch Dressing.)

Ok. Now that you have you ingredients, let's get cooking!

Step 1. Cut up some nice 1 inch thick pieces of bread.

Step 2. Coat both sides of the bread with olive oil. Use enough for it to soak into the bread.

Step 3. Grill the oiled bread on a cookie sheet (or other flat pan) at 210 degrees for 5 minutes. Then flip them so the bottom gets crispy, but keep an eye on them until they go golden.

Step 4. Turn your grill off, and let them continue to simmer in the oven.

Step 5. To prepare the cheese, cut nice 2-3mil thick slices or bigger if you like cheese (we won't judge).

Step 6. Add your meat and quickly take the slices of bread out of the oven.

Step 7. Pour a little Caesar Dressing, add the bacon, and cover it with cheese.

Step 8. Pop your sandwich in the oven and turn it up to 150 degrees. Keep an eye on it till the cheese melts.

Step 9. Next, turn off your oven (so you don't burn your bloody house down, I warn you cause the food will look so good you may forget about everything except the food).

Give the sandwich time to cool... but not too long! Eating it hot is very nice. Very, very nice!

And VOILA! A 15 minute meal that's bound to make you want more.



More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Verminfate's Hawaiian American Combo, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, Toasty Cheddar and Salami Sammich! The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Classic and Healthy Chicken Sandwich, The Golden Blanket Sandwich Tasty Turkey Melt.

August 03, 2009

Ohkay's No Bake Peanut Butter Cookies

Most recipes that are "no bake" are a.o.k. with me. Now for those who feared that they'd burn their houses down if they cook while they game, try these cookies out!

What you need:
2 cups Sugar
1/2 cup Butter
1/2 cup Milk
1/3 cup Cocoa Powder (unsweetened is ideal, unless you REALLY like sweetness)
Pinch of Salt
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
3 tablespoons Peanut Butter
3 cups of Quick Oats

This recipe will make about three dozen cookies.

Step 1. Mix the sugar, butter, milk, cocoa powder, and salt in a large saucepan. Bring this to a boil over medium heat. Stirring constantly. Let boil for 3 minutes.

**Tip** Do not stop stirring; you don't want to curdle the milk!


Step 2. Remove from stove, and stir in the vanilla and the peanut butter. Continue to stir until the peanut butter is melted completely into the mixture.

Step 3. Add the oats and mix.

Step 4. Place tablespoon sized scoops onto a sheet of waxpaper. Let these firm, and then they're ready to eat. :) No baking at all!



More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

July 26, 2009

Monti's Pizza Bread Snacks!

Now if you have a nice fresh loaf of bread this can often be tastier than a traditional pizza. I kid you not! :) Just find a loaf of bread that you feel like biting into when you're still in the store, and you're in business.

Even better, this recipe make your Pizza snack in hardly any time. So throw out your pizza rolls, and try this instead!

What you need:
Loaf of Italian bread, preferably unsliced
Olive Oil
Italian Seasoning
Tomato sauce
Shredded cheese, (Whichever your favorite is--you're not limited to Mozzarella!)
Your choice of toppings.

Step 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Step 2. Slice bread in 1/2 inch slices.

Step 3. Mix 4 parts olive oil to 1 part seasoning in a ramekin or bowl.

Step 4. Brush the oil and seasoning mixture generously on 1 side of the bread.

Step 5. Place bread slices (oil side up--kind of duh, but just in case you were wondering!) on a baking tray that has been sprayed with a non stick spray.

Step 6. Spoon on thin layer of sauce

And now the fun part! Choose your favorite toppings!
Topping Suggestions: These can range from pre-cooked chicken, to pepperoni, to pineapple, mushrooms, black olives, fresh basil. Just make sure that if the toppings are something that needs cooked, pre-cook them!

Step 7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

Step 8. Place in oven or toaster oven and bake for 7 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Enjoy! :)



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

Easy Stuffed Pepper, By Pimb

Here's an easy one for those who like the stuffing in stuffed peppers but don't like the cooked pepper. I will post 2 variations on the bottom as well.

Pimp says, "This originates from my mom's stuffed bell pepper recipe, but this is much easier (plus I hate cooked bell pepper)."

What you need:
2 Green Bell Peppers
1/2 lb Ground Beef
1 to 1-1/2 cups of Rice (close to 2-1/2 cups when cooked)
Ketchup, to taste (It will be about 1/3 to 1/2 a cup.)

1. Get some hamburger, and brown it in a skillet.

2. Cook some rice. I like to use instant rice. All you do is boil water and put in the rice;let it sit for a few minutes.

3. Mix rice and hamburger together. Add ketchup.

4. Remove the top stem, and seeds from the green peppers. Stuff and Enjoy!


Variations:
A. A Classic Version: Try this with seasoned tomato sauce. Season with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and some onions (chopped and grilled with the ground beef). For a nice little extra bit of flavor, add in some grilled mushrooms (I like the Portabellas in this).

Step 2. After you stuff the peppers, place them in an oven-safe dish and bake for 15-20 minutes at 350.

B. Make this Tex-Mex style! It's maybe my favorite way to eat stuffed peppers. Basically, season the beef as you would a taco (use a packet of taco seasoning, or mix your own with: Chili Powder, Garlic Powder, Salt and Pepper, Minced Dried Onions, Cumin, and a tad of Cayenne Powder). Also, if you have it toss in a sliced and seeded Jalapeno. Mmmmm!

Step 2. Then add in some tomato sauce (or you could use some enchilada sauce) with the meat and rice.

Step 3. Stuff the peppers, and top with some cheddar cheese.

Step 4. Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes.

July 19, 2009

Roast Tauren Grillz

These tasty sammies are in honor of all our Tauren friends. Really, Tauren are deliciously tasty, just avoid their horns.



What you need:
4 thin slices of Roast Beef
1-2 slices of your favorite cheese (I used Pepperjack, and Chipotle Cheddar.)
Toasted Bread (I used a Garlic Parmesan seasoned Italian Bread.)
**Optional** Try this with a few slices of onion, grilled alongside the beef. You could also add some grilled mushrooms.

Dressing: Try with a Honey Mustard...it's yummy! Or try it dry, with the seasoned bread it will be flavorful, and the grilled beef should be juicy (as long as you don't overcook it).



Step 1. Place your toast in the toaster.

Step 2. Simply grill your roast beef in a skillet on medium heat (takes about a minute or two). When the first side is cooked, flip and add the cheese. Cover for optimal melting. :)



More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Verminfate's Hawaiian American Combo, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, Toasty Cheddar and Salami Sammich! The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Classic and Healthy Chicken Sandwich, The Golden Blanket Sandwich Tasty Turkey Melt.

July 14, 2009

Toasty Cheddar and Salami Sammich!

The great thing about sandwiches, is that if you mix up an ingredient or two you can come up with tasty varieties with the same basic structure. What that means is, don't eat the same old sandwich...play around with your favorite cold cuts.



This particular sandwich was inspired by Carson's Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, but also from my love of cream cheese with salami (it also tastes great with pepperoni and bacon). The cream cheese helps to mask the salty taste of these meats. The salts are still there, so do not add any.

In the end, you are left with a really yummy salami sandwich, that has a little bite from the chipotle cheddar, and the tomatoes help even out all these flavors.

What you need:
3-4 slices of Salami (I used Genoa)
2 slices of Chipotle Cheddar
Cream Cheese
Cherry Tomatoes, sliced in half
Toasted Bread (I used a Garlic Parmesan Italian Bread that was in the Fresh Bakery Section of the store.)


More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Verminfate's Hawaiian American Combo, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, Toasty Cheddar and Salami Sammich! The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Classic and Healthy Chicken Sandwich, Tasty Turkey Melt.

Verminfate's Hawaiian American Combo

When I saw this on the OT, I knew that it would be win. It's a sweet twist on the Traditional American Combo, and I can't wait to make one!

Verminfate says, "Here's a sammich my mom made me and the nerds for my 18th birthday party LAN. Yeah, Guitar Hero, WoW, Wii, and ddr, plus techno it was awesome."

Bonus: NO BAKING/COOKING REQUIRED!

Ingredients:
Hawaiian Bread (Circular bread that actually says Hawaiian bread--usually it's a sweet bread with pineapple baked into the dough.)
Provolone cheese (3 slices per layer)
The classic trio of meat (i.e Turkey, Ham, and Roast Beef--about 2 slices of each per layer)
O'Charley's Honey Mustard (Note: Other brands of honey mustard, or Dijon will work well on this sandwich.)
Tomatoes
Onion
Lettuce

Directions for Layers
Step 1: Cut the Hawaiian bread in 3 layers.
a. Put a layer of honey mustard on bottom piece.
b. Place three pieces of provolone evenly.
c. Place turkey, ham, and roast beef slices.

Step 2: Top that layer with the middle piece of bread

Step 3. Repeat Step 1.

Step 4. Now place tomatoes, onion, and lettuce.
a. Spread more honey mustard on the top piece of bread.
b. Place the final slice of bread on top of your creation, and push down.

There you go, a tasty sammich you can cut into 8 slices!



More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Alterac Swiss Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Tasty Turkey Melt.

July 12, 2009

Classic and Healthy Chicken Sandwich, by Fools

This is a great way to use up some left over chicken. If you had something like BBQ chicken, you might skip the mustard.

What you need:
Half of a Chicken Breast
Mayonnaise
Mustard or spicy mustard
Salt and pepper, other spices are optional
Bread

Step 1. Cook, or re-heat your chicken any way you want (But do not fry it!). While you're doing that, toast your bread.

Step 2. Shred the finished chicken, and put it on one slice of bread.

Step 3. Add in the mustard, mayo and spices.

Step 4. Enjoy with a cool drink.

This is an easy sandwich. As a bonus, chicken is healthy to eat, and this sandwich tastes better than your average turkey sandwich and chicken patties, enjoy!



More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Alterac Swiss Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Tasty Turkey Melt.

July 11, 2009

Radiatore Pasta Salad

One thing about the summer heat that I hate is eating hot foods when it's 90+ degrees and muggy. This cold pasta salad sure hit the spot, and I had tons of leftovers, which is always win, because you don't need to cook the next day.



Also, you do not need to use radiatore pasta specifically, I chose it to describe this recipe because I think it's a fun little noodle, and the spirals catch the olive oil well. You could use bowties, elbow, or penne noodles instead. The noodles pictured are gemilli.

What you need:
1 Box Radiatore; cooked, drained, and cooled
8-10 pieces of salami cut into little strips (Both hard or genoa salami work well in this recipe.)
2 Roasted Red Peppers (These peppers are optional, but are really delicious in this salad. You can often find jars of Roasted Peppers near the pickles in the grocery store.)
4 Roma Tomatoes, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 to 3/4 cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (to taste)
1 teaspoon of Black Pepper
1 teaspoon of Salt
1 small can of sliced Black Olives
1/4 to 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan Cheese
1-1/2 to 2 tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar

Season to taste with Oregano, Basil, and Garlic Powder (approximately 1 tablespoon of the Oregano and Basil, and 1 teaspoon of Garlic Powder).

**Tip** If you'd like thicker salami pieces, ask the deli counter to cut you 2-3 slices of salami, approximately 1 cm thick. Then slice the salami into small pieces. Yum!

Step 1. Cook the pasta in boiling water for 8-10 minutes. I prefer them slightly al dente for this recipe, but you can make them softer.

Step 2. While your pasta is cooking, chop the onion, tomatoes, and salami. Place these in a large mixing bowl with the drained Black Onions.

Step 3. Drain and cool (with cold water) your pasta.

Step 4. Mix the cold pasta into the mixing bowl, and season with the olive oil, vinegar, and dried seasonings. Stir to coat the pasta the best you can, and to spread the veggies/salami fairly evenly throughout the pasta.

Step 5. Taste-test a noodle or two. Adjust the seasonings to taste, add extra olive oil if needed.



Step 6. Chill the pasta in the fridge for an hour, or make it earlier and chill it overnight.



More Pasta Ideas!
Manicotti Made Easy, Spinach and Sausage Mostaccioli, WoW Ziti Dinner, Midsummer Special! Spinach Ziti, Krizak's Redneck Shepard's Pie Nubsauce, My Favorite Ravioli, Chicken and Mushroom Linguine, FTW Lasagna, North American Goulash.

July 10, 2009

Alterac Swiss Melt

This is a tasty thick sandwich, sure to fill your belly at dinnertime. It does take about 7-10 minutes to prepare, but for a dinner sandwich, that's not bad.

Also this tastes great with some Cole Slaw on the side, especially the ones that are more on the sour side.

What you need:
4-5 very thinly sliced pieces of Roast Beef
4 smallish Mushrooms (you can use slices from a can, or slice about 4 fresh ones)
1-2 pieces of Swiss Cheese (go for a nice smoky variety)
2 slices of a hearty bread, or on a nice fresh roll (think onion, kaiser, or ciabatta) Really just choose one that won't get too soggy quickly.
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1/2 clove of garlic, minced

Optional: Dress with a little mustard, mayo, or better yet, add a little grilled sauerkraut and horseradish.

Step 1. Put your bread into the toaster or toaster oven.

Step 2. Grill your mushrooms and the sauerkraut.

**Tip** To grill the mushrooms, add the olive oil to the pan with the minced garlic. After you have washed, stemmed, and sliced your mushrooms, grill them on medium heat in the oil. Try to keep the oil and schrooms on one side of the skillet, use the other side to grill the kraut.

When the kraut is finished being heated, just add it to the toasted bread.

Step 3. In the same large skillet (just rinse it), grill the beef on medium-high heat. When the first side is cooked flip it, and add the grilled mushrooms, and the swiss cheese to melt.

Step 4. Add the melt to the bread, slice, and enjoy! :)



More Sandwich Ideas: Monster Veggie Wraps! Revdeath's Sloppy Joes, Helboar Bacon Buns, Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt, Alterac Swiss Melt, Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, Classic BLT, Turkey Day, Any Day Sammie, Carson's Meat Lovers Sammie, Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich,Jack Dandy Special, Sushi Style Turkey Wraps, Simple Chicken Salad, Traditional American Combo Hero, Alterac Swiss Melt, Turkey and Salami Sammie, Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, The Classic Italian Hero, Salami and Cheese Sammies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Tasty Turkey Melt.

July 08, 2009

Pimb's Peanut Butter Cheesecake Pie

So far pie is in the lead for the great Pie > Cake debate! Here's a yummy OT submission for a no-bake, peanut butter cheesecake pie.

Ingredients:
1 cup peanut butter
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (also known as confectioner's sugar)
1 cup milk
1 8 oz. package of cream cheese, soften (leave on the counter for a little bit before stirring in the sugar)
1 premade graham cracker crust
1 16 oz. tub of whipped cream

Step 1. Mix the cream cheese and powdered sugar together.

Step 2. Add peanut butter and milk, stir.

Step 3. Add whipped cream, stir.

Step 4. Pour mixture into the graham cracker crust then freeze until firm.

Most of the ingredients are not exactly low-fat, so I recommend using reduced fat peanut butter, fat free whipped cream, reduced fat cream cheese, and fat free milk. Easy to make, and tastes helluva good.



More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

July 06, 2009

Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake Bake

This is a delicious and attractive version of the Simple Cheesecake Bake. The pictured version is with strawberry cream cheese, and topped with blueberries, but you could reverse that order.



It has a prep time is only about 5 minutes; the rest of the time is letting the cream cheese soften, and a 30 minute bake.

What you need:
2 tins of Pillsbury crescent dough
A package of Strawberry (or Blueberry) Cream Cheese, softened
1-1/2 to 2 tablespoons of sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
Some cinnamon and sugar mixed together to top (roughly 50/50).
Container of Blueberries (or Strawberries, sliced) to top the cheesecake

Step 1. Leave the cream cheese on the counter for about an hour to soften.

Step 2. Preheat your oven to 350, and stir approximately 1-1/2 to 2 tablespoons of sugar into the cream cheese.

Step 3. Roll the first crescent roll dough in to the bottom of a small, greased oven safe dish.

Step 4. Spread your sweetened cream cheese on the dough.

Step 5. Cover with the second crescent roll dough, and coat with the melted butter.

Step 6. Top with a thin, evenly spread layer of cinnamon and sugar.



Step 7. Bake at 350 for approximately 30 minutes until the top is golden brown.



Let cool for a few minutes before cutting. Serve by itself or with some coffee.


More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!



More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Simple Cheesecake Bake, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

July 03, 2009

Lyrra's Spicy Beef Nachos

Need your nachos to have more of a bite? Make them spicy with some cayenne peppered beef, and jalapeno peppers.



These were made in honor of Lyrra's insane Frostfire bolts.

What you need:
Tortilla Chips
Cheddar Cheese (or Mexican blend)
1/3 lb of browned and seasoned Ground Beef
1-2 Jalapeno Peppers, sliced
A little chopped Tomato and Onion, to taste

Step 1. Season your browned (and drained) beef with some taco seasoning, and add in cayenne to taste.

Step 2. Mix the beef with the onions, tomato, and jalapeno slices.

Step 3. Layer your chips with cheese and the meaty mixture.

Step 4. Back for about 5-8 minutes at 350 (to melt the cheese), or you can microwave it for a few minutes.



Other Tex-Mex Favorites: Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, Lyrra's Spicy Beef Nachos, Tacos, Tacos, Tacos! Mexican Layered Pie Dip, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Quickee Quesadillas, OMG Fajita Tuesday! Burrito Style Enchiladas, Mair's Super-Simple Taco Soup, Monti's Crock Pot Ready Tortilla Soup, Burrito Style Enchiladas, Mini Burrito Dessert.


More Snack Ideas: Simple Cracker Snacks, Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks, Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad, My Keys are Happy! Veggie Dip, By Thecookie, Celery Snack Ideas! More Easy Celery Snack Ideas, Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos, Lyrra's Spicy Beef Nachos, 4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip, Mexican Layered Pie Dip, Devilishly Delicious Devilled Eggs, Quickee Tasty Quesadillas, Salami and American Crackers! Pizza 101, Mini Burrito Dessert, Telaari Grape Salad, Super Stuffed Ganking Apples, Brazilian Puss in Boots, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!