Tasty and Easy

Moo-Steak in the Rough

2011-07-04T14:25:00.006-04:00

Being a level 525 cook, I figure it's time Brawnco threw his spatula into the ring with some hardcore salad.

"This recipe gives two charges of 'Moo-Steak in the Rough' buff for you and your gaming buddy giving +30 healthiness, +30 fulliness, and +60 toughiness for 4 hours."

Must be in the Valley of the Kitchen to create.

Stick the steak in a bowl (this will allow it to chill in the marinade mix for an hour or more). Sprinkle and rub Garlic, Pepper, and Salt into the meat. Drip some lovely Lime Juice on the steak in the bowl and let the marinade magic happen for an hour or more in the fridge. While it's marinading ... GET TO CHOPPIN!!!

While you are chopping, preheat your oven to BROIL EXTREME.

Cook the now-marinated steak on broil for about 7mins on one side and then 3ish on the other until it's nice and dark brown. These times are approximate, every oven has a life of its own and has different amounts of hell-scape within, so broil times may vary. When you think it's done, take it out and rend open a slit in the middle so you can check out the inside color. Pink/Red=bad, unless you're some crazy rare-hungry monster!

Cut the steak into mouth-sized longish strips (using a knife to cut and fork to hold the BROIL EXTREME hot meat).

You are ready to assemble your salad.
Put everything but the steak into two salad bowls.
Sprinkle veggies with your favorite dressing (oil and vinegar, italian, etc)
Add Steak Strips on Top
EAT IT!!!1!11!!oneleven

Note About Dressing and Healthiness:
Dressing is almost pure fat calorie, be light on dressing at all times, especially with this salad (the marinaded meat will give PLENTY of flavor)

Catyra's Power Breakfast with Oats! O.o

2009-10-31T23:40:00.003-04:00

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

2009-10-31T20:38:00.004-04:00

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!

Easy Tortellini Soup

2009-10-30T20:31:00.007-04:00

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

2009-10-30T20:00:00.005-04:00

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!

Spicy Wolf Kabobs, by Tweaks

2009-10-03T14:25:00.013-04:00

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.

End of Summer Vegetarian-Friendly Pesto Sandwich

2009-09-10T22:43:00.004-04:00

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.

Baked Bacon Bites

2009-09-06T14:49:00.006-04:00

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

2009-09-06T14:29:00.004-04:00

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

2009-09-06T13:50:00.003-04:00

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

2009-09-06T13:37:00.004-04:00

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.

Tasty Tropical Smoothies, by Danneskjold

2009-08-22T20:34:00.003-04:00

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

2009-08-22T20:14:00.003-04:00

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

2009-08-22T19:53:00.003-04:00

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.

Ohkay's No Bake Peanut Butter Cookies

2009-08-03T22:44:00.004-04:00

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!

Monti's Pizza Bread Snacks!

2009-07-26T23:31:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-26T23:13:00.002-04:00

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.

Roast Tauren Grillz

2009-07-19T14:50:00.005-04:00

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.

Toasty Cheddar and Salami Sammich!

2009-07-14T16:18:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-14T15:45:00.005-04:00

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.

Classic and Healthy Chicken Sandwich, by Fools

2009-07-12T11:49:00.009-04:00

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.

Radiatore Pasta Salad

2009-07-11T15:32:00.006-04:00

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.

Alterac Swiss Melt

2009-07-10T10:55:00.004-04:00

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.

Pimb's Peanut Butter Cheesecake Pie

2009-07-08T15:41:00.005-04:00

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!

Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake Bake

2009-07-06T12:17:00.006-04:00

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!

Lyrra's Spicy Beef Nachos

2009-07-03T16:54:00.005-04:00

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!

Monstrously Delicious Salami and Cheddar Sammie, by Carson

2009-07-02T16:33:00.008-04:00

Carson has kindly submitted another delicious sandwich idea, for our tasting pleasure. This one is basically a salami and cheese, but it's not your ordinary variety. In fact, you could make slight variations to this to tailor it to your own cravings. Change up the dressing, eat cold, melt it, whatever! It's all going to taste good.

Instead of giving the ingredients for just one sandwich, Carson suggests that you purchase enough to make a few, as you'll be craving a second.

He writes, "This is basically just a sandwich, but dang, I love it. I ate 5 of them this weekend!"

Ingredients:
1 loaf of sliced Sourdough Bread
1 package of Salami (I prefer hard salami.)
1 package of sliced Cheddar(mild, or sharp)

Dressing: Use Italian Dressing, or Cream Cheese.

For an individual sandwich use:
2 slices of sourdough
5-6 pieces of salami
2-3 slices of cheddar

Depending on the size of your loaf of bread, you can get quite a few sandwiches out of some easy to gather supplies.

**Tip** Make this into a melt! Toast the bread, and grill the salami and cheddar. Deeeelicious!

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, 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.

Midsummer Special! Spinach Ziti

2009-06-30T20:13:00.010-04:00

Spice up your ziti with this vegetarian friendly version. You could also try this with a little broccoli, if that's your thing.

Since it is summertime, while I write this I suggest that you use fresh spinach (approximately 3-4 cups).

What you need:
Box of Ziti noodles
1 can of your favorite tomato sauce (26 oz)
15 oz (small container) of Ricotta cheese
1/2 bag of frozen spinach (see notes)
1/2 cup of Parmesan Cheese
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
**Optional** Season the top of your ziti with a little dried oregano and parsley.

**Notes** i. Try this with a simple Nubsauce. I used 1 can of diced, Italian Tomatoes, and 1 can of unseasoned sauce. I seasoned my sauce with 2 cloves of garlic, salt and pepper, sweet basil, and thyme. Just season to taste.

ii. If you are working with frozen spinach, here is what you want to do. First, heat, but do not cook the spinach it in the microwave. Really, you're defrosting it for approximately 3 minutes, and squeeze out the excess water. This is really why you do not want to cook it, or you will have to wait for it to cool before you can remove the excess water.

Step 1. Grab a large pot and fill 3/4 of the way with water. Add a little salt, cover, and bring to a boil (this will take about 10 minutes to boil). Return to WoW and play for the next 15-20 minutes.

Step 2. Pour a box of ziti noodles into the pot and mostly cover (leave enough space to vent and prevent it from boiling over). Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes. About half way through stir the noodles to prevent clumps. Return to the game. After the full 8-10 minutes is up, test a noodle to make sure that they are soft.

Step 3. Drain the pot. Add some cold water to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom. Squish them, and drain them again.

Step 4. Add a small container (15 oz) of ricotta cheese. If you have the large container use about 1/2.

Step 5. Add half a can of tomato sauce, or your own Nubsauce. Also add in the heated spinach.

Stir contents evenly.

Step 6. Using a large rectangular baking pan (9.5"x13" or so), pour noodles and spread evenly.

Step 7. Coat with a thin layer of Parmesan cheese.

Step 8. Coat with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 9. Sprinkle with a little garlic powder and a little parsley and oregano.

Step 10. Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes.

Enjoy! Your wife will love you for making this, and you'll be happy that you were able to continue playing!

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

Linsha's Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

2009-06-30T19:50:00.004-04:00

There are so many delicious variations of chicken noodle soups. This is a recipe for a savory, creamy soup. The best part is that it is an easy recipe that has very little prep time.

All you need is a few very short kitchen trips to add the ingredients to the pot, and it will just become more flavorful on each trip.

What you need:
4-5 frozen or fresh Raw Chicken Tenders; sliced, or diced into pieces
2 cans of Chicken Broth
2 Celery stalks, cut into pieces
1 can of Cream of Chicken Soup
Egg noodles
Salt & Pepper

**Note** I use a 4 1/2 quart kettle for this recipe, so adjust to your kettle size.

Step 1. Fill the kettle a little over half full of water, with a little salt (approximately 1 tablespoon).

Step 2. Add in the raw chicken pieces and the 2 cans of chicken broth. Bring to a boil.

**Tip** If you used raw frozen chicken, let it boil for a few minutes before proceeding to Step 3.

Step 3. Once boiling, add in the celery and noodles (fill the pot to just under half full; approximately half the bag of noodles).

Step 4. Cook the noodles according to package times. Once noodles are cooked, turn the heat down to medium add the can of cream of chicken soup, mix and salt and pepper.

Step 5. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes, turn off and let it cool to your desired temperature.

Soup Recipes: Chicken Soup made Easy! AB Cappin' Cappaletti 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.

Turkey and Salami Sammie

2009-06-29T20:28:00.008-04:00

This sandwich is a blend of all the best things about sandwiches. Tasty cold-cuts, crunchy veggies, and oh so yummy cheeses. It's a particularly good choice when you don't feel like eating the same old turkey sandwich.

What you need:
Bread of your choice (Try on a bagel or roll...it's really good!)
3-4 thin slices of Turkey
3 slices of Salami
2-3 pieces of cheese (I used some Colby, and some Pepperjack)
4-5 slices of Cucumber
Some: Lettuce, Tomato, and Onion
Dress with Italian Dressing or another Vinaigrette

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, 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.

My Keys are Happy! Veggie Dip, By Thecookie

2009-06-28T11:16:00.005-04:00

Veggies are great to eat while playing at your computer. They will fill you up, and with a great dip you will forget all about chips. Another bonus to eating veggies is that one can generally eat them with only one hand, keeping your mouse fair game. Just choose dips that are not too liquid filled (watery dips are gross anyhow imo), and your keys will stay clean.

Thecookie writes about his vegetable dip saying it is a "very good source of fiber and vitamins."

What you need:
2 cups of Plain Yogurt (This you could substitute with sour cream.)
1 tbsp of Chives
1tbsp of Parsley
1tsp of Garlic
1 tsp of Celery Salt

Veggies to dip. This works as a delicious Celery snack idea, or you can dip slices of Bell Peppers, Cucumbers, Carrots, Black Olives, etc. Even Apple slices would taste good with this tip it you like mixing sweet with salty. :) Yum!

Step 1. Mix in a bowl with a spoon.

Step 2. Refrigerate over night then garnish with carrots and celery.

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, 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!

Chicken and Mushroom Linguine

2009-06-27T13:11:00.006-04:00

This is an easy recipe for the mushroom lovers. A variation of this recipe that I've seen, uses country gravy (or turkey gravy), and skips the tomatoes/tomato sauce.

What you need:
2 cans of Mushrooms (mix them; ex. 1 can Portabella, 1 can of regular stems & pieces). You can use a container of fresh mushrooms, just wash then stem/slice them.
1 small Onion, sliced
2 Chicken breasts, sliced
2 cloves of Garlic, sliced
1 can of Italian Diced Tomatoes
1 can of Tomato Sauce (unseasoned)
1/2 box of Linguine
1/2 to 1 cup Fresh Basil, chopped
1 tablespoon of dried Parsley
3 tablespoons of Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper (Some directly on the chicken before you grill it, and some in the sauce to taste.)

Step 1. Boil a large pot of water with approximately 1-2 teaspoons of salt. Once boiling, add the noodles. Let these cook for 7-10 minutes. When finished, rinse in cool water then drain.

Step 2. In a saucepan, cook the sliced onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat. Brown these, but do not caramelize.

Step 3. Begin to grill the chicken pieces in the other 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

Step 4. Add the mushrooms to the saucepan with the onions and garlic. Let these grill for approximately 1-2 minutes, then add in the tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir.

Step 5. Add the basil, parsley and salt/pepper (to taste) to your salt. Add the cooked chicken to the sauce. Let this simmer on medium-low for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Serve with Parmesan Cheese.

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

Monti's Crock Pot Ready Tortilla Soup

2009-06-27T12:27:00.008-04:00

This is a simply delicious recipe for a Tex-Mex favorite. To shorten the time, Monti's recipe suggests using pre-cooked chicken (for salads). If you have a Crock Pot in your dorm, this is a great dorm meal!

Monti say, "Many of the ingredients aren't exact, I like to play around with it and season it to my taste. You really can't mess it up. Just go with any peppers you want, and don't make it too chunky, or it turns into to more of a salsa than a soup."

What you need:
Crock Pot
1 medium Yellow Onion
1 medium Green Pepper, chopped
1 medium Red Pepper, chopped (Substitute with a spicier pepper if desired.)
2-3 cloves of Garlic, minced
3 16 ounce cans of Chicken Broth (I've also used beef broth, I just like the chicken better.)
16 ounces of Tomato Paste
1 can of Diced Tomatoes
2 Chicken Breasts, pre-cooked and shredded, (could substitute with beef)
1/4 cup Fresh chopped Cilantro
2 tablespoon Chili Powder (more or less if you like)
Cayenne Pepper (I don't measure this, I just add a little until it gets a good bite to it.)
1 tablespoon Ground Cumin (adjust to taste)
Mixed shredded cheese, I like Kraft Mexican blend
Tortilla chips
Sour Cream

Step 1. Stir in all of the ingredients into a crock pot except the Cilantro, Chips, and Cheese.

Step 2. Cook on medium heat for 2 hours, then add in the cropped cilantro. Cook for another 15 minutes.

Step 3. Crush up the tortilla chips, and add them in.

**Tip** Only do the chips per bowl, they will get soggy if you mix it all together and have leftovers)

Step 4. Top with the cheese and some sour cream.

Enjoy! :)

**Tip** This recipe will work with a large pot as well, just make sure to stir it occasionally, and keep a lid on it. Simmer it on low heat for several hours.

Other Tex-Mex Favorites: Nethaera's Epic Chicken 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.

Soup Recipes: Chicken Soup made Easy! AB Cappin' Cappaletti 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.

4 Layer Mexican Black Bean Pie Dip

2009-06-25T22:09:00.008-04:00

Since the Superbowl Layered Mexican Pie post was such a hit, I decided to add this variation.

The recipe below is for a single pie sized dip. If you have more than four people, I'd recommend making two pies, which really you just need to make sure that you have an extra package of cream cheese. Make things extra special by making two slightly different pies (ex. one with corn and one with black beans). Yum!

What you need:
1 package of cream cheese, softened. 1/2 a can of vegetarian re-fried beans.
2 cans of Fire Roasted, or Chili Ready Tomatoes
1 can of Black Beans
1 handful of frozen Corn
Shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend).
Bag of Tortilla corn chips.

Preheat the oven to 350.

Step 1. In a pie tin sized pan, spread the softened cream cheese evenly.

Step 2. Spread 1 of the can of tomatoes (drain the well first).

Step 3. Continue by adding a layer of Black Beans (drained well first).

Step 4. Add the corn.

Step 5. Add the second can of tomatoes (also well drained).

Step 6. Top with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 7. Bake at 350 for about 15-20 minutes (until cheese on top is fully melted).

Serve with Tortilla corn chips and enjoy!

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!

Mair's Super-Simple Taco Soup

2009-06-25T21:52:00.008-04:00

This really delicious Tex-Mex soup you can make year-round. If you like chili, then you will absolutely love this soup.

The great thing about this soup's prep, is that cooking the ground meat is the step that will take you the longest, and will only take about 5-8 minutes. If you'd like to go veggie on this then you can have a shorter cook time. Just add in a can of pinto beans, and some fresh Bell Pepper.

What you need:
1 Can of Red Kidney Beans
1 Can of Black Beans
1 Can of Southwest Corn (or Mexicorn)
1 Jar of Salsa (Pace Picante Sauce is good for this--use the entire jar!)
2 Cans diced Green Chilies (these cans are usually small)
1 pkg. Taco Seasoning (recommend the low-sodium kind)
1 pkg. Ranch dressing mix
1 diced onion (optional)
1 pkg. ground meat, cooked and drained (beef or turkey).

Like it spicer? Add in an extra can of Green Chilies and 1 can of Jalepenos.

**Tip** You can add more cans of beans and corn to get more soup, but as is, it already makes a huge portion and freezes well.

Step 1. Brown and drain your ground meat. If you added diced onion, or fresh hot peppers, cook these with the meat.

Step 2. Put all ingredients into a large stockpot (don't drain the canned things,) and cook on lowest setting for several hours. Just give it a stir once in a while.

Step 3. Top your soup with a little spoon of sour cream (or light sour cream), and a little shredded cheese, with maybe some crunchy tortilla strips (or chips) on the side.

You can eat it as soon as it's hot, but it really tastes better after it's been mixed for a while. Also, the flavors will continue to meld after cooking and some might say that it tastes even better reheated.

Other Tex-Mex Favorites: Nethaera's Epic Chicken 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.

Soup Recipes: Chicken Soup made Easy! AB Cappin' Cappaletti 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.

Grizzlemaw Southwestern Style Stuffed Chicken

2009-06-23T23:01:00.005-04:00

This recipe is a twist on Chicken Cordon Bleu. It's a nice and spicy version of the classic dish.

What you need:
2 Chicken Breasts
2 slices of PepperJack Cheese
1 small tomato, diced
1-2 Jalapeno Peppers, sliced
1 Egg
Breadcrumbs to coat

**Optional** Want it spicer? Add some Habanero Pepper, or your favorite hot pepper in with the Jalapeno.

For the Breadcrumbs, spice them up with some Chili Powder (2 tablespoons), Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon), and Cayenne Powder (1 or more teaspoons to taste).

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 350. While this is heating, "Butterfly" the chicken breast (slice it open, but do not cut all the way through, so that it resembles butterfly wings). This option will allow you to easily stuff the breast.

**Note** It doesn't have to be perfect, If you cut through, just serve that side on the bottom.

Step 2. Stuff or wrap your chicken around a slice of Pepperjack and some of your tomato and jalapeno.

Step 3. Quickly beat your egg, and dip the stuffed chicken. In a separate bowl, add the spiced breadcrumbs. Dip your egg-coated chicken into the breadcrumbs, coating the surface.

Step 4. Lay the chicken onto an oven-safe pan (coat with foil for easy cleanup).

Step 5. Bake the chicken for 45 minutes. To make sure that your chicken is cooked, jab it with a fork. If the juice is clear, then you're good. If the juice is pink, cook it for another 5-7 minutes, then check it again.

Serve with some veggies or rice on the side.

Berry Delicious Smoothie, By Thecookie

2009-06-23T22:55:00.002-04:00

Here's an OT submission for a tasty and healthy smoothie. This hits the spot as even a lunchish type meal. Even better, there is only one step!

What you need:
Blender
1 cup of Milk
1/4 cup of Plain Yogurt
A lot of Berries, preferably the frozen mixed variety.
1 tsp of Vanilla
And some Stevia Sugar

Step 1. Add all of the things in a blender and blend.

Note: You can also add some protein powder

Sarai's Savory Silvermoon Chow Mein

2009-06-22T17:20:00.006-04:00

Sarai writes, "This is a very delicious, and nutritious recipe that I love making. It especially hits the spot during the summertime, and at LANs."

The prep time takes about 10 minutes, and requires some watching. All in all, it's a very fast meal to get in and out of the kitchen, and is very keyboard friendly.

Best of all, this is a very versatile recipe, really, whatever veggies or meat you have lying around the pantry can be thrown in, and it will taste delicious! Seriously, feel free to throw whatever you have on hand in, like mushrooms, or any other of your favorite vegetables.

**Tip** The cast time on this recipe can be reduced significantly by chopping your vegetables the night before (or using a Vidalia Chop Wizard), and letting the meat marinate overnight. Everyone has those times when they're waiting for Wintergrasp; there's not enough time to do an instance, and there's still 30 minutes before the battle. The solution, join the raid, go AFK and make some food!

What you need:
1 package yellow Asian style egg noodles. (Plain ol' spaghetti will suffice.)
Green Onions, chopped
1 large Onion
2 Celery stalks, leaves and all!
8 large Broccoli Florets cut in half, or regular diced broccoli
1 1/2 cup Green Peas
1-2 Carrots, diced
1 tablespoon Fennel Seeds
3-5 cloves of Garlic, minced
Hoisin sauce (Readily available in most grocery stores and Asian markets)
Soy Sauce (splash)
2-3 boneless chicken breast, cubed
1-1/2 tablespoons of Chinese Five Spice powder
2-3 tablespoons of brown sugar
A dash of garlic power
Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
A dash of cayenne pepper
Sesame oil (Regular vegetable oil will work as well.)

**Optional Variations** Try this recipe with the following "sub-ins."
Pork loin
Shrimp
Canned Corn
Bell Peppers
Pea Pods
Hot Peppers
Mushrooms

1. Cook noodles according to package directions. Usually in the boiling water for about 7-10 minutes. Drain.

2. Cube the chicken, or pork and chopped shrimp, add to a bowl. Add a splash of soy sauce, half a tablespoon of hoisin the brown sugar, 5 spice, and a pinch of salt. Mix vigorously cover with some plastic wrap and refrigerate.

3. While noodles are cooking, chop up all the veggies and add them to a bowl, except for the garlic.

**Protip Reminder** Chopping all your vegetables and placing them in a bowl with some plastic wrap the night before will cut down the time dramatically (same with the meat). Add a tablespoon of hoisin to raw veggies and mix.

4. Heat a wok or deep skillet (and I emphasize deep!) to medium heat with a teaspoon of sesame oil.

5. Add fennel seeds, and garlic to the oil. Fry these for 30 seconds, then add the rest of your veggies and cook until crispy. Remove from skillet.

6. Remove meat from fridge, and heat another teaspoon of oil. Fry the meat until well done. Remove from skillet and drain.

7. Add about a tablespoon of oil to skillet once more, and stir fry your noodles. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, a tablespoon of hoisin, a dash of garlic powder, black pepper and cayenne pepper and a pinch of salt. Continue to stir fry until everything you added is mixed in well and the noodles start to crisp up.

8. Add cooked veggies to noodles, stir, add cooked meats and stir again to mix it all up and continue to cook on medium heat for 1-2 minutes.

9. Spoon some into a bowl, pour yourself a glass of Chardonnay and pwn some nubz on a full stomach.

Tasty Rice Ideas: Cashew Chicken with Ginger, Mirage Raceway Rice Dishes, by Wrathfulfury, Dazrel's Southshore Sweet'n'sour Chicken, Mmm Rice Dinners! Apple n' Chicken Stir Fry, Tips for Perfectly Steamed Rice, by Grizelle.

Fajitas for Breakfast

2009-06-22T16:53:00.004-04:00

This is basically a breakfast burrito recipe, but since I didn't have burrito sized tortillas, I made them into fajitas. Burritos are more keyboard friendly, but work with what you have.

What you need:
2 Eggs, scrambled or fried with the yolks cooked
3 pieces of bacon (or a few sausage links)
1 piece of your favorite cheese
1 Fajita sized flour tortillas

**Tip** I like to use the peppered bacon so that I do not have to add salt and pepper.

Step 1. Cook your bacon or sausage. If you'd like to shorten the cooking time, buy the precooked bacon, and simply reheat for approximately 20-30 seconds in the microwave.

Step 2. Break your cheese and 1 piece of bacon into little bits.

Step 3. For this recipe, I like my eggs scrambled, which I add in a splash (approximately a teaspoon of milk). I also add in the bits of that bacon and the cheese, and beat the eggs with a fork.

**Tip** Really beat your eggs pretty hard, lifting the fork about two-ish inches each motion. This helps trap air into the eggs, making them a little more fluffy. The more noise you're making while beating...the fluffier your eggs will be generally.

Step 4. Cook your eggs. While cooking stick the tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to soften.

Step 5. Add the cooked eggs to the tortillas, and serve the bacon on the side.

Want a vegetarian variation? Try these eggs with some cheddar cheese (Swiss will work well too with the mushrooms), fresh tomato, mushrooms, and if you have some cooked potatoes, chop them up and add them in. Season the eggs with some garlic powder and paprika. Yum!

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, Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! How to Cook Perfect Bacon, Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr, Mmm Coffee!

Other Tex-Mex Favorites: Nethaera's Epic Chicken 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, Burrito Style Enchiladas,Mini Burrito Dessert.

Simple Cheesecake Bake

2009-06-20T11:53:00.006-04:00

Here's a nice little dessert/snackish item. This one is for cheesecake lovers, but reminds me of french toast.

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 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).

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!

Fishing Daily Special: Brilliant Smallfish Cracker Snacks

2009-06-19T20:07:00.008-04:00

Ever wonder what happens to all those Brilliant Smallfish you are catching in Org, and Stormwind? Well, you see it's a deal I made with Nat Pagle. I dispose of the unwanted little fish, and in return he promised that someday I will get my own baby croc. I've kept up my end of the deal...

Nat! I'm coming for you!

For a tasty cracker snack, try these tuna crackers!

What you need:
6 Crackers (I used the round whole wheat ones.)
1 can of Tuna
1-2 Tablespoons of Mayonnaise
1 stalk of Celery

**Optional** If you like onion, chop a little and add it into the tuna (Step 3).

For toppings: I used Cucumber, Tomato, and Pepper Jack Cheese. I also sprinkled a little oregano on each.

Step 1. Slice up your celery into small pieces.

Step 2. Open your tuna can and with the lid, squeeze out the excess juice.

Step 3. Mix the tuna, celery and mayo together. I said 1-2 tablespoons, because it really depends on how much you'd like to use. Just stir it well, and if the tuna is not dry you're good.

**Tip** If you add too much mayo, then the tuna won't stick together as easily. So start small, it's easier to add more mayo if you need it.

Step 4. Spoon some tuna onto each cracker, and add your topping.

Viola! A nice tasty and healthy snack.

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, 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!

Blueberry Nubcakes!

2009-06-18T14:29:00.005-04:00

So you pulled an "all-nighter" trying to grind out some more arena points. You're at the point where you're more hungry than tired, and are looking for some tasty breakfast food. Look no further! Try these fluffy and delicious pancakes.

For this sensational treat year-round, keep a bag of frozen blueberries on hand. You don't even need to thaw them. Just rinse them, then add them into your pancake batter.

What you need:
1 cup of regular white flour
1 cup of whole wheat flour
2 eggs, beaten
1-1/3 cups of milk
1 teaspoon of vanilla
2 teaspoons of baking powder
3/4 teaspoon of salt
1 cup of Blueberries (Fresh if they are in season, frozen if they are not.)
2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter for the pan
Maple Syrup to taste as your topping.

**This will make about 10-12 pancakes.

Step 1. In a large mixing bowl mix all your ingredients evenly.

Step 2. Turn on your pan and let it get hot before you grease with butter or oil. This will give your batter the minute or two it needs to rest and thicken. Cook the pancakes on medium heat, so the outsides don't burn.

Step 3. Use approximately 1/4 cup of the pancake mix if you want small dials. If you want monster pancakes, use enough to cover the bottom of the pan with about a 1/2 cm or so layer of batter.

Step 4. When the top of the pancake is big and bubbly, flip it. You should only flip once.

Variation: Nubcakes fer da newbz
Instead of mixing your own batter you can use pancake mixes from the store. These are very tasty too. I tend to avoid ones with fruity fillings, and just add my own fresh fruit.

Also, if you have a sweet tooth you can add in a few chocolate chips.

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, Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! How to Cook Perfect Bacon, Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr, Mmm Coffee!

Helfire Boar Stewin' with Berlena

2009-06-18T13:04:00.013-04:00

This recipe was submitted by Berlena, who warns that it has some leg work. Some of the best things do take a little time, but I suggest trying this one on maintenance Tuesdays.

Berlena writes, "It takes about 3 hours to cook, and tastes great!"

What you need:
Crock Pot
2 Pork Neck bones (You can buy these in boxes in Canada. If you cannot find them, ask the butcher in your grocery store.)
3 quarts of Water (Add more if you need it.)
1 can Tomato Soup
1 cup of Flour
1 large can of Pineapple chunks (you can use fresh if you'd like.)
2-3 Celery stalks, chopped
1 large Onion, chopped
3-5 cloves of Garlic, chopped or minced
2 tablespoons of dried Basil, or about 1 cup of fresh, chopped leaves.
1 medium sized container of fresh Mushroom, rinsed and sliced (Or, 2 small cans of mushrooms will work.)
3 large carrots, shredded or you can just chop these.
1-4 tablespoons of Cayenne Pepper, to taste.

**Tip** The Vidalia Chop Wizard makes preparing this stew much faster!

Step 1. First things first, thaw the 2 pork neckbones.

Step 2. After they are thawed, break them up (they should break up pretty easily). Then shave every bit of meat you can off the bones.

Step 3. Get out your crock pot. Berlena suggests using a large one, so if you have a smaller one, adjust the recipe to fit the ingredients into your crock pot.

**Tip** If you do not have a crock pot, use a pot with a tightly fitting lid, which you can seal, and not have steam escape.

Step 4. Put the meat into about 2 quarts of water water. Slowly stir in a cup flour, and a can of tomato soup (homemade tomato paste works better, but canned tomato soup is a decent alternative)

Step 5.Add in the chopped celery, basil, carrots, onions, garlic, and mushrooms.

Step 6. Let this all cook for about 2 hours on low heat. About half of the way through, test the thickness. If your stew is still pretty watery, add in some more flour (in small increments) until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 7. Add in your pineapple, and some cayenne pepper to taste.

Step 8. Let this cook for another hour on low heat.

Uncover, and enjoy!

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.

Soup Recipes: Chicken Soup made Easy! AB Cappin' Cappaletti 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.

Easy Fruited Jello Molds

2009-06-17T21:41:00.006-04:00

There is always room for jello. Make yours with some extra texture and flavor by adding in some fresh fruit. If you're not a complete klutz, then this is a nice keyboard friendly dessert/snack.

You really can use a wide variety of fruit, think banana, pineapple, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc. However, avoid the melons, unless you cut them into very fine pieces.

For a simple Jello Mold use small custard dishes.

What you need:
1 package of Jello (I used Wild Strawberry.)
2 cups of water (1 boiling, 1 cold)
5 large Strawberries, sliced
8-10 large Blackberries, cut in half

Step 1. Prepare the Jello as you normally would (usually 1 cup of boiling water, dissolve the mix, and add in a cup of cold water).

Step 2. After the jello is starting to solidify in the fridge (about an hour), add in a few slices of strawberry and some blackberries. Stir these to distribute.

Step 3. Return the Jello to the fridge, and let it finish setting (another 2 hours should do it). You can poke it gently, if your finger doesn't pierce the surface with the GENTLE poke, then you're good.

**Tip** You do not actually need to remove it from the dish, but if you choose to, place the dish in a shallow pan of warm (not boiling) water for a few minutes to loosen it from the dish.

More Snack Ideas: Simple 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, Chocolate Cream Strawberry Shortcakes, Strawberry Shortcakes, Real Whipped Cream, Really Fast, Simple Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Easy Fruited Jello Molds, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

Tips for Perfectly Steamed Rice, by Grizelle

2009-06-17T20:12:00.004-04:00

Rice is one of those foods that once someone tells you how to prepare and cook it properly, it will become like old hat. This post is from Grizelle, who submits some tasty dishes.

Read it, apply it, learn it. You'll be cooking some amazing rice dishes in no time!

What you need to cook rice:
Heavy sauce pan with a tight fitting lid.
Uncooked long grain Basmati (Indian) rice or Jasmine rice (I like Basmati best!)
Water or soup stock/broth (if you want flavored rice)

Step 1. Figuring out just how much rice. An easy rule of thumb is to use a rice to liquid ratio of 1:2. So, if you use 1 cup of uncooked rice, you want 2 cups of liquid to cook it in.

**Tip** A cup of uncooked rice will make about four 1/2 cup servings when cooked. Make sure your sauce pan is at least twice the capacity of the amount of liquid you will be using to cook the rice.

Step 2. Do not forget to rinse! The way to make fluffy rice that isn't sticky, is to rinse the uncooked rice grains a few times in water. This removes some of the starch powder that adheres to the grain after milling. I put the rice in the sauce pan I'll be cooking it in, cover it with cold water, swirl it around a bit, and pour the rinse water off, repeating a few times until the water is fairly clear. After you have rinsed the rice, and drained off all the rinse water, add the liquid you will be using to cook the rice, in the correct amount.

Step 3. Cooking the rice. With the pot uncovered, bring the rice to a gentle boil over medium high heat. As soon as the water is boiling, give the rice a stir, then cover the pot, and turn the heat down on LOW. Leave the rice covered for a full 20 minutes. No peeking. Really, do not lift the cover until the 20 minutes are up. (Did you hear me, n00b?? I said don't lift the cover until 20 minutes are up!!)

**Tip** Set a kitchen timer that has a loud buzzer for 20 min, and carry it with you if you are going to go back to your computer swimming in the Dalaran fountain. This way you won't forget that you are making uber rice instead of Minute Rice, and you won't burn your house down.

Step 4. Finishing Up. After 20 minutes, turn off the heat, remove the pot cover (yes, it is OK now). Fluff the rice with a fork. It should be ready to serve.

Tasty Rice Ideas: Cashew Chicken with Ginger, Mirage Raceway Rice Dishes, by Wrathfulfury, Dazrel's Southshore Sweet'n'sour Chicken, Mmm Rice Dinners! Apple n' Chicken Stir Fry, Tips for Perfectly Steamed Rice, by Grizelle.

Ophirae's Super Stuffed Hot Dogs

2009-06-17T20:01:00.003-04:00

These aren't your ordinary dogs! Seriously though, they are not. These actually sound pretty gosh darn tasty. I say that without being a hot dog fan, but I will have to try these soon!

8 Hot Dog Sausages, chopped in small pieces
1 tablespoon Onion, chopped
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
1 cup of Mozzarella, shredded
1/2 cup of Condensed Tomato Soup (or ketchup, which is actually better)
1/4 cup of Relish
1 tablespoon Mustard
8 Hotdog Buns

Step 1. Mix all ingredients save for the buns in one bowl.

Step 2. Stuff the hot dog buns with the mixture.

Step 3. Wrap each bun in foil.

Step 4. Put in the oven at 400 F for 15 minutes.

** Freezes well **

It's a very cheap meal to prepare, and it's great way to spice up your plain hot dogs.

Easy Cucumber, Dill, and Tomato Salad

2009-06-16T16:07:00.009-04:00

This is a quick prep salad. However, the veggies will become more flavorful if you let it chill for a few hours, rather than eat it right away. Just relax, play, and give those veggies some time to soak up all the yumminess. Then serve with a slotted spoon so it's not so juicy.

What you need:
1 Roma (Italian) Tomato (or 6-8 cherry tomatoes, sliced in half)
1 medium sized Cucumber
1 tablespoon of Fresh Dill
2 tablespoons of Vinegar (white wine or apple cider)
1 tablespoon of Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 tablespoon of Water
1/2 teaspoon of sugar (I know some people might bump this up to a teaspoon or more, but just do it to taste.)
1/4 teaspoon of salt

**Optional** Add in a little onion or some black olives.

This recipe will make 2-3 servings.

Step 1. Cut of the cucumber and tomatoes. You can cut them however you'd like.

Step 2. Add in the oil, vinegar, water, dill, and sugar. Stir and put into the fridge to chill. I usually leave it in the fridge for about an hour, you could leave it longer if you'd like.

A variation on this recipe is to skip the olive oil, and instead bump up the vinegar content to 3 tablespoons, and water up to 1 tablespoon.

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, 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!

Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! By Cardboord

2009-06-15T10:29:00.006-04:00

Can't decide if you want your eggs as an omelet or a sandwich? Don't choose, this sandwich is the best of both worlds.

Its highlight is its massively cheesiness. If you're a cheese-head then this is the way that you should try your bacon, egg, and cheese.

Cardboord writes, "Personally, I'm a big fan of meals that are very flexible in their prep time. You can either make this very quickly, by using pre-shredded cheese and deli meat; or into a long, but delicious breakfast with bacon and home-shredded cheese. Serve it with some fried potatoes for a hearty, delicious breakfast!

Ideally, the eggs are one big cheesy, fluffy, bacon-y mass of goodness. I use milk to help them be fluffier and larger, and I find Velveeta to be a good binder for all the ingredients in the eggs." :)

Materials needed:
2 extra-large Eggs (or 3 medium)
1/4 cup Velveeta cheese
1/2 cup of your favorite cheese or cheeses, shredded. (I blend shredded Swiss and Sharp Cheddar.)
1 to 1-1/2 tablespoons milk
4 slices of bacon, cooked.
1 Ciabatta Roll, cut in half for the sammich.
1 tablespoon of Olive Oil or Butter to grease the pan.

**Optional** 1 extra slice of each of the aforementioned cheeses, minus Velveeta.

Dressing: Mayonnaise, salt and pepper to taste.

Directions:
1. grease a small pan using olive oil or butter.

2. Heat pan on medium heat, and add eggs, milk, and velveeta and shredded cheese. Mix well with a spatula. Basically, scramble together in the pan.

3. Toast your bread. If you're using a toaster oven, pre-heat it to 250 degrees. Place the ciabatta roll cut sides down--toast until brown.

4. Crumble 2 strips of bacon into eggs and mix well. (If you're using deli meat, cut 1 piece into small pieces before adding to the eggs, and add a second piece to the roll.)

5. Spread mayonnaise on both halves of the warm ciabatta roll. Add the extra cheese slices, and 2 strips of bacon to the bottom half.

6. Let the eggs finish cooking, add to bottom half of ciabatta roll, and enjoy!

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, Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! How to Cook Perfect Bacon, Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr, Mmm Coffee!

Chocolate Cherry Celebration Pie

2009-06-13T18:36:00.007-04:00

To celebrate being "stickied" on the OT-Forums, I decided to make a nice sticky, cherry pie! This pie is a variation of a classic cherry pie, but with delicious bits of chocolate. If you like chocolate covered cherries, you'll love this pie.

What you need:
1 frozen Pie Crust
1 can of Cherry Pie filling (If you use the deep dish pies, be sure to get 2 cans of cherry pie filling.)
1/2-1/3 cup of good dark chocolate (I like the Ghirardelli 60% cacao chips, and the Lindt dark chocolate.)

**Tip** Do not over-do it on the chocolate, as you do not want to drown out the cherry flavor.

Dutch Crumbly Topping
What you need:
1 cup of flour
1 cup of Brown Sugar
4 tablespoons of butter, softened
1-2 tablespoons of milk

Make the topping in a mixing bowl. I usually mix the dry ingredients with the butter with a fork or my fingers. Add in the milk after the rest are pretty well combined (no big pieces of brown sugar or butter). The milk really is only used to make the topping slightly sticky, not doughy. Use sparingly.

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 400, and take a pie crust out of the freezer. After a few minutes (at least 5 minutes) place the pie crust on a foil covered cookie sheet, and bake for approximately 5-7 minutes.

Step 2. Mix your crust together while waiting (follow the directions above).

Step 3. Remove the crust from the oven, and reduce the heat to 350.

Step 4. Pour the cherry filling into the crust. Add in the chocolate, pressing a few down into the filling, so that it is not just as a topping on the cherries.

Step 5. Add the crumbly crust.

Step 6. Bake at 350 for about 40-45 minutes, until the top is nicely browned.

Let cool for at least 15 minutes, and enjoy! :)

More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, 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!

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!

Ham and Pasta Salad

2009-06-11T23:20:00.004-04:00

I wanted to make a pesto salad, and realized that I forgotten to pick up more fresh basil at the store. Instead of completely scrapping the idea, I searched through my fridge, and was pleased to find that I still had a few basil leaves left. Basically, this is a great way to use up some leftovers when you have a bit of this and a bit of that.

Also, if you're good at multitasking the "in the kitchen" time only takes about 5 minutes (to chop veggies, start the noodles and grill the ham), then a quick 2 minute pasta drain and mix together.

This really can be tweaked to your own spicing taste, but this is what I used. Also, the ham can be left out, or substituted with chopped salami or pepperoni.

What you need:
1/2 box Bow-tie Pasta
4 tablespoons of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
A handful of Black Olives, cut into thirds
3 large Roma (Italian) Tomatoes
1/2 medium sized Onion, chopped
1/3 cup of Parmesan Cheese
1 pinch of Thyme
2/3 cup of chopped Fresh Basil, or 1-1/2 to 2 tablespoons of the dried seasoning
1 teaspoon of Garlic Powder (or 4-5 cloves, chopped and grilled with the ham)
2-3 tablespoons of Pine Nuts
3 thick slices of cooked Ham
Salt and Pepper to taste (approximately a teaspoon of each).]

Step 1. Start to cook your noodles in a pot of water with a little salt.

Step 2. Chop the onion, tomatoes, olives, ham and basil.

Step 3. Grill the Ham pieces (takes about a minute or two).

Step 4. After your pasta is finished cooking, drain it.

Step 5. In a large mixing bowl, mix the pasta, veggies, ham and spices. Add the olive oil and stir to coat the pasta well.

Let this chill in the fridge for about an hour, and enjoy! :)

Cashew Chicken with Ginger

2009-06-10T19:52:00.007-04:00

This chicken has a tiny, little bite to it from the ginger. Not so much for the spicy lovers, but enough that you might want to change it a little if you're preparing for young children.

I especially like making this when I have some pot-stickers to go on the side, but it can solo as the entire meal as well.

If you're not a ginger fan, you can still make this into a delicious cashew chicken without adding the ginger.

What you need:
2 chicken breasts, cut into short strips (about 2 inches long and 3/4 inch wide)
2/3 cups of Cashews
1/2 bag of Frozen Stir Fry Veggies
1/2 cup of Soy Sauce
1/2 cup of Water
2 teaspoons of black pepper
3 heaping tablespoons of ground ginger (If you have fresh, you can get away with using about 2 tablespoons of it grated.)
1 tablespoon of flour
1/2 teaspoon of garlic
**Optional**1/2 teaspoon of cracked red pepper
2 tablespoons of oil.

Make some rice to go on the side. I used enriched white rice this time, but often use brown rice or Jasmine rice. Also, "minute rice" will save you time, so you can use that.

Step 1. Pour your veggies in a large mixing bowl. Add in the soy sauce, water, ginger, garlic and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir and let sit until the chicken is browned. You can really let this marinade as long as you'd like.

**Note** Skip the salt. Soy sauce is pretty salty.

Step 2. Coat the chicken slices in a little flour, and shake approximately 1 teaspoon of black pepper on the floured chicken. Grill the chicken in the skillet with the oil. This will give it a little crispiness.

Step 3. Pour the excess juice over the chicken, stirring to coat evenly.

Step 4. Add in the veggies. Cover, and finish cooking the mixture on medium-low heat. I usually leave it for about 10-15 minutes, stirring half way through.

Serve with your rice, and enjoy!

Tasty Rice Ideas: Cashew Chicken with Ginger, Mirage Raceway Rice Dishes, by Wrathfulfury, Dazrel's Southshore Sweet'n'sour Chicken, Mmm Rice Dinners! Apple n' Chicken Stir Fry, Tips for Perfectly Steamed Rice, by Grizelle.

OMG Fajita Tuesday!

2009-06-09T22:23:00.010-04:00

I love fajitas! They are like mana from the gods. Oh wait, that's a margarita. Well, they still are a delicious treat, and actually don't forget to make the margaritas too. Mmm!

Even though they take a little longer of "in the kitchen" time (about 5-8 minutes to get every thing sliced into strips, then you have to make a trip to check on the browning chicken), they make up for it by being so scrumptious that you eat that extra one that you know you should have passed. If you have a Vidalia Chop Wizard, you can slice the veggies into long strips in about a minute. I love that gadget! :)

If you plan it right (notice today is maintenance Tuesday) then you can strip the chicken and veggies earlier in the day, and actually let it marinade. Talk about tasty!

What you need:
1 package of flour tortillas (either fajita or burrito sized)
3 chicken breasts (or about 1 to 1/2 lbs of flank or round steak)
2 Green Bell Peppers
1 large onion
4 tablespoons of olive oil (2 are for browning the chicken or beef, and the other 2 are for the seasoning)
1/2 cup of water (to mix with the seasoning)
Some shredded Cheddar, or Mexican mix cheese

**Optional** Add in some cherry tomatoes that are sliced in half.

Make Your Own Seasoning: If you like to use a store package of fajita mix that works. If you'd rather make your own use the following ingredients:
1 tablespoon of Flour
1-2 tablespoon of Chili Powder
1 tablespoon of dried Minced Onions
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1-2 tablespoon of Cumin
salt and pepper

Step 1. Cut your veggies and meat (chicken, steak, or a little of both) into long strips.

Step 2. In a large skillet, brown your chicken in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will take about 8-10 minutes on high to get the surface slightly crispy. You don't need to watch it too carefully but check it after 5-6 minutes, and flip the chicken strips.

**If you're making this earlier in the day, and letting it marinade, hold this step until later.

Step 3. When the chicken is browned, add the veggies on top, and pour the seasoning (mixed in with the water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil) onto everything. Stir to coat it the best you can.

Step 4. Turn the heat down to medium. Cover, and allow to simmer for 10-20 minutes (until the green peppers are soft--they will change from dark green to a more olive color too).

Step 5. Place desired amount into the tortilla with some cheese.

This recipe will produce about 12 fajita sized, or 6 burrito sized fajitas.

**Tip** If you ever cook these for guests, save yourself some time, and let them put them together themselves. They'll be happy because they get to make them just the way they like them.

Other Tex-Mex Favorites: Nethaera's Epic Chicken 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 Easy Celery Snack Ideas

2009-06-08T19:55:00.009-04:00

Eating healthy doesn't have to be bland! Here are two simple dips that will help your veggies taste delicious, and each one had very quick prep times where I was in the kitchen for less than 5 minutes for any step.

I should note that there is a cooking time on the eggplant dip, and both have a cool down time. So, I'd say make this when you're make something else (like a Ziti), and eat it the following day, or when you get the midnight munchies.

Cucumber Dill Dip

What you need:
Small container of Sour Cream
1 Cucumber
Fresh Dill (Remove the stem from a little bunch, and rip the thin leafy parts, which you'll use.)
1-2 stalks of Celery, cut for dipping
**Optional** Spice it up with a little bit of minced onion and or garlic.

Step 1. Chop about 1/3 of the cucumber off, and remove the skin. The rest of the cucumber you will cut into strips for dipping.

Step 2. Cut the skinned cucumber into little bits.

Step 3. Mix the bits of cucumber and the dill into the sour cream. If you are adding in onion and/or garlic, mix those in to it too.

Let the dip chill in the fridge for at least an hour.

Eggplant and Green Pepper Dip
This is actually a really, really yummy dip, and it sounds more difficult than it actually is to make.

What you need:
1 small Eggplant
1 Green Bell Pepper
1-2 cloves of Garlic, outer skin removed
7-8 fresh Basil leaves (or approximately a tablespoon of the dried)
2 tablespoons of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 to 1-1/3 cups of Water
1 can of Italian seasoned, diced tomatoes (or you can use a medium sized ripe tomato)

Step 1. Poke the eggplant and green bell pepper a lot with a fork (about 10-15 jabs each).

Step 2. In an oven-safe dish place the poked eggplant, green pepper and cloves into the dish with the water.

Step 3. Bake at 375 for 1-1/2 to 2 hours (until they are deflated and very wrinkled).

Step 4. Take the dish out of the oven and let the veggies cool. I left them for at least a half-hour.

Step 5. Slice the baked eggplant and green pepper open to remove the seeds. Remove the fleshy parts from the skins.

Step 6. Mush the eggplant and green pepper up with either your fingers or a big spoon (fingers are faster). It should be the consistency of a thick salsa.

Step 7. Add in the basil, olive oil, and 1/2 of the can of tomatoes (wrap the rest up in a container, and store in the fridge for something else).

Step 8. Mix it all, and then store in the fridge at least an hour or two before eating.

Serve with sliced celery and/or cucumber. It was seriously really good.

More Veggies Ideas: Classic Celery Snack, More Celery Snack Ideas: Dips.

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, 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!

Easy Vegetarian Minestrone Soup

2009-06-07T12:34:00.012-04:00

This is really a tasty soup. I love making it in the summer with fresh tomatoes, but here is a variation that you can make year-round.

Unlike some soups that sound like they should be vegetarian friendly, this soup really is (I used water in the tomato base, not chicken broth).

What you need:
1 large can, and 1 small can of Italian Seasoned Diced Tomatoes (or you could use 3 small cans).
1 can of Chick Peas
1 can of Red Kidney Beans
1 small can of Mushrooms (I used Portabella Mushrooms.)
1 large Onion, chopped
3 cloves of Garlic, minced (1-3 teaspoons of the refrigerated minced garlic will work.)
A medium sized handful of frozen Green Beans (you could use fresh beans)
1-2 large handfuls of pasta "shells" (Think of the Cheese and Shells, mac-n'-cheese noodles.)
Water (I fill 2-3 of the empty Tomato cans with water and just pour it in.)
8 Fresh Basil leaves, chopped (Or approximately a tablespoon of the dried seasoning.)
1/3-1/2 cup of Parmesan Cheese
1-2 teaspoons of Oregano
1-2 Tablespoons of Cornstarch or Flour to thicken the broth.
Salt and Pepper to taste.

**Optional** Although corn is not traditionally used in Minestrone, I love it so much that I threw a small handful of frozen corn into the pot.

If you'd like your soup to have a little bite, add some Cracked Red Pepper to taste.

Step 1. Chop your onion and mince your garlic.

Step 2. Pour all the cans, water, and your chopped onions and minced garlic into a large pot. Bring to a boil.

Step 3. Once boiling (about 10-15 minutes), add the pasta "shells," and reduce the heat to Medium-Low.

Step 4. Season your soup with the Basil, Oregano, Salt and Pepper. Slowly, add in the cornstarch or flour to thicken the broth. (Add these in slowly, or you'll make little dumplings.)

**Tip** If you'd like to add more cornstarch or flour, do so sparingly. If you add too much and your broth is too thick, add a little more water.

Step 5. Let the soup simmer for at least 20 minutes, but I often will leave it for an hour or two, stirring occasionally.

Serve the soup with a tasty roll, or with some crackers.

Soup Recipes: Chicken Soup made Easy! AB Cappin' Cappaletti 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.

Grizelle's Pulled-Pork Crock-Pot Recipe

2009-06-07T12:15:00.007-04:00

Tender, shredded pork, with a homemade BBQ sauce makes this dish a winner. This is a slow cooker recipe, so it will take a long time to cook.

If you do not have access to a conventional stove, this will still come out okay, but the pork will not be browned. On the plus side, you just shaved some of the steps off, and do not need to add the oil. Just throw the ingredients into the Crock Pot and go.

What you need:
Crock Pot
1 Tbsp peanut oil or other high smoke point vegetable oil
2-3 lb boneless pork "country" ribs
Salt & Pepper
Garlic powder
1/4 cup apple juice (kids small size drink box is perfect for this - it is handy to keep a 6 pack of no sugar added drink boxes on hand for cooking.)
2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup to 1 cup of your favorite prepared BBQ sauce
Sandwich buns/bread of your choice (Texas toast works nice for this too.)

Step 1. Pre-heat oil in a large, heavy non-stick or stainless steel skillet, on medium high setting.

Step 2. Wash pork ribs under running water, and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange ribs on a plate, and sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and a small amount of garlic powder.

Step 3. Brown ribs on both sides in the hot oil, using tongs to turn (couple minutes on each side). You are only browning the ribs for flavor & color - the actual cooking will be done in the crock pot. Take care to not burn the ribs, you just want a nice even brown color.

Step 4. Remove the browned ribs from the skillet, and place them in the crock pot, reserving drippings in skillet

Step 5. Reduce burner setting to medium, and add apple juice, vinegar, and chopped onion. Stir briskly with a wooden spoon or heat resistant spatula to raise up all the brown bits from the bottom of the skillet (this is called "deglazing" the pan in cooking terms).

Step 6. Continue stirring for another 3 min, the onions should be starting to become transparent. Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the pan "gravy" over the ribs in the crock pot. Cover and cook according to your crock pot settings. For the above referenced crock pot, I cook on LOW for about 8 hours or HIGH for about 4 hours.

Step 7. When the meat is tender (falls apart easily when pulled with a fork) it is ready. Pour off the excess liquid, reserving the cooked meat in the pot. Turn crock pot setting to "Warm" and using two forks, pull the meat in the pot into nicely shredded pieces. Pour BBQ sauce in amount to suit your personal taste over the pulled pork and stir to coat. Cover to keep warm until ready to serve.

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.

Advantages of Crock Pots, by Grizelle and Zonoma

2009-06-07T11:59:00.006-04:00

For cooking in a gamer friendly manner, I highly recommend investing in an inexpensive, and easy to clean small (4 quart) crock pot. These are basically devices that will slowly cook your meals, producing some really juicy dishes.

A great feature about them, is that if you live in a dorm, you can still eat real food. They are like an improved hot pot. While your friends are eating the questionable items served in the cafeteria, you could be eating pot roast, stew, pulled pork, and even fajitas!

As an example, I use this one that goes for around $20 at Target or Wal-Mart.

Crock-Pot Site

I like it because the ceramic pot comes out of the cooker base and you can soak it if necessary. Much easier for cleanup.

Clear advantages for crock pot cooking, are that it is hard to really ruin something in a slow cooker, and cheaper cuts of meat can be used with great results.

The only real disadvantage is that you have to remember to get stuff going before you go to class or play games. These are called slow cookers for a reason.

Check out one of my favorite things for the crock pot, in the "pulled pork" recipe.

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.

Simple Strawberry Snack

2009-06-04T22:09:00.011-04:00

Here's a quick idea to use up leftover strawberries, for when you're just not in the mood for a shortcake, and don't want to make a fruit pie.

It's simple, and tasty!

Step 1. Slice your strawberries.

Step 2. Just add a teaspoon of powdered sugar, or you could use honey, or even maple syrup.

More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, 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!

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, 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!

Elwynn Forest Lumberjack Special, aka Crepes by Randalflagg

2009-06-04T21:53:00.008-04:00

Might not be ultra-fast gamer foods, but these are as easy to make as they are delicious! Additionally, these do not contain corn starch/syrup, and will fill you up. Don't run around Northrend hungry. Eat some crepes instead!

Basically, a crepe is like a very thin pancake. They are wonderfully light and delicious. If you try this recipe and would like your crepes a little thinner, use only 1/2 cup of milk, and add in 1/2 cup of water.

What you need:
1 cup flour
1 cup milk
1 egg

Optional Toppings: Blueberries, Strawberries, Maple Syrup, Chocolate Sauce (like Nuttella). Pretty much anything you'd put on a pancake, you could use on these. I've also seen cheese, and meat crepes (think about chicken waffles), so those would work as well.

This recipe will make 4 large crepes.

Step 1. Take all of the above and mix them together well (very well, because uncooked flour lumps aren't appetizing).

Step 2. Once you have the mixture ready, at this point you could either go straight to the frying pan, or you could add some other seasonings for taste, like cinnamon or vanilla extract. If you add stuff, mix again until it's evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3. Cook the crepes in a frying pan on medium to low heat. Make sure that each crepe is cooked all the way through.

**Note** How much of the mixture per crepe really depends on how big and thick you want them.

Step 4. Once a crepe is done cooking on each side, find a way to keep it warm until you're finished cooking the rest. This way, you don't have to reheat them later. I suggest an oven-safe plate and keep them on the stove near (but not too close) to your frying pan.

When you're finished, you should end with the crepe equivalent of a short-stack.

Enjoy!

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, Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! How to Cook Perfect Bacon, Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr, Mmm Coffee!

Kiethras's Breakfast Tubers

2009-06-04T21:46:00.005-04:00

Ooh boy, do have a recipe for you! Granted, you do have to fry stuff, but it takes little to no time at all! I can make this whole thing in 20 minutes tops, which really isn't too bad.

Because this recipe can take a few more minutes in the kitchen, it is one that you'd want to make before you log in to the game.

What you need:
2 - 4 potatoes (depending on who all is eating)
Some butter for the frying pan
1/2 an onion, chopped.
A few dashes of cayenne - or whatever other spicy spices you've got. Usually we just use some chili powder, some pepper, and some of Frank's Redhot Sauce.
A pinch o' salt

1. Chop the potatoes into cubes, skins and all.

2. Melt the butter in the frying pan. Heat it until sizzling.

3. Add your spices to the butter, stir it up a bit.

4. Add the potatoes and fry that baby up! This will take about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of your potato pieces.

Step 5. Then add the onion and fry for another minute. Add more sauce and spices as you think you need.

6. Serve hot and enjoy!

**Tip** The smaller the potato pieces, the faster they will cook. Too small, and you'll have mini-chips, too big and you'll never get the center cooked. So cut them to pieces 3/4 inch cubes.

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, Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! How to Cook Perfect Bacon, Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr, Mmm Coffee!

Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr

2009-06-03T17:44:00.012-04:00

This is a simple and tasty pudding dish. I served it with some strawberries, but you could eat it on it's own and be very satisfied.

The recipe below yielded the amount in the picture. If you'd like more, simply double the recipe.

What you need:
1 Banana, mushed
1/3-1/2 cup of Ricotta Cheese
1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Cinnamon

**Optional** To thicken it slightly use a little (about a teaspoon) flour or cornstarch. I didn't find this necessary, but if yours comes out watery.

Step 1. Mush your banana in with the ricotta, until it is smoothly blended.

Step 2. Sprinkle with the cinnamon. You can stir it in if you'd like.

Step 3. Heat in the microwave for at least 5 minutes. The cheese should be warm, and the banana pretty much melted.

Serve on it's own or with some fruit to dip.

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 Strawberry Snack, Tundra Berry Salad, Simple Fruits, Great Taste!

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, Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! How to Cook Perfect Bacon, Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr, Mmm Coffee!

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, 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!

Burrito Style Enchiladas

2009-06-02T11:03:00.010-04:00

Enchilada sauce is so delicious, but traditional corn tortilla enchiladas can be difficult to eat at your desk, especially if you would like to eat them one-handed. So, to help solve the messy drip, I like to use flour tortillas, and roll the enchiladas into a burrito.

What you need:
1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken, browned (takes about 5-8 minutes in the skillet)
1 can of enchilada sauce (At the bottom of the post I will mention the recipe to make your own, but the canned stuff is fine. I just like to add some cayenne.)
1 package of burrito sized flour tortillas
1 to 1-1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
**Optional** Add some cayenne pepper to the sauce if you'd like it spicier.

You can also make these vegetarian friendly, by using more cheese and no meat. Add spinach, and/or mushrooms to taste.

Step 1. Brown your ground beef or chicken. Drain out the excess grease when the meat is finished cooking.

Step 2. Add the sauce to the meat and let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Step 3. Fill the center of your tortilla with the meat and cheese.

Step 4. Roll your burrito.

Step 5. Rinse the skillet, and turn the stove temperature to high. Grill the burrito to make the tortilla slightly brown.

**Optional** If you don't mind the extra sauce, bake the enchilada-burritos at 350 for 10-12 minutes, with sauce underneath and on top of your enchiladas. Add some cheese too if you'd like!

**Tip** Double the recipe, and freeze your left over burrito-style enchiladas. They're so much tastier than Hot-Pockets! :) Just, reheat them for 3-4 minutes in the microwave, or until the center is hot.

Enchilada Sauce:
1 can of unseasoned tomato sauce
1/4 cup chili powder
1 to 1-1/2 cups of water
Cumin, Cayenne Pepper, Garlic Powder, and Salt to taste (about 1/4-1/2 teaspoons of each).
To thicken, add 1-2 tablespoons of flour or corn starch.

Steps. Just heat in a sauce pan for about 10 minutes on medium-low heat. Stir every few minutes.

Other Tex-Mex Favorites: Nethaera's Epic Chicken 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.

Other Similar Recipe Ideas to Try: Goodlee's Monster Stromboli, Summerfest Spinach Calzone, Pepperoni Calzone, Sausage and Peppers Calzone, Nesingwary Stromboli.

Revdeath's Sloppy Joes

2009-06-01T19:27:00.008-04:00

Okay, this sandwich is not too keyboard friendly, but is delicious, quick, and easy to make. Seriously, you'll probably ingest it so fast (it's that good) that the messiness will not matter much.

What you need:
1 lb. Ground Beef
1/2 cup chopped Onion
1/2 cup chopped Green Bell Pepper
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 1/2 teaspoons Yellow Mustard
3/4 cup Ketchup
3 teaspoons Brown Sugar
salt and pepper
3 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
1-2 Slices of Cheese (Havarti, Swiss, Provolone, and Mozzarella work best)

Step 1. Brown the beef with the onions and bell pepper. This will take about 5-10 minutes depending on how much you're making. You don't have to watch it too carefully, but you should break up the clumps, and flip the meat to fully cook it.

Step 2. Drain the fat from the pan, and stir in the remaining ingredients.

Step 3. Let this simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.

Serve on rolls or hamburger buns with your choice of cheese.

More recipes from Revdeath coming soon!

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, 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.

Sanguinar's Baked Beans

2009-06-01T19:17:00.003-04:00

Looking for a way to spice up your baked beans? Sanguinar walks you through one delicious baked bean dish that moves the beans from the side to the main course. Check it out! :)

The prep time will take about 5-10 minutes, depending on how quickly you work.

What you need:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 large onion, chopped
3/4 cup chopped green pepper
Pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper
3 large cloves garlic, chopped
8 ounces hot Italian sausage, removed from casing
2 cans (28 ounces each) baked beans, preferably Bush's
3/4 cup Mutha Sauce. This sauce is optional. I sometimes skip it, but it is pretty good.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and peppers and cook til soft adding a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

2. Crumble sausage into the veggies and cook, chopping to break the meat into small pieces. Cook until it is no longer pink. Drain off some of the bean liquid in each can so that it's at the same height as the beans; then mix the contents of both cans into the cooked veggies and sausage.

3. Turn down the heat down to medium-low and add all the rest of the ingredients. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Serve immediately, or cool and reheat before serving (lettin' the flavors blend a while never hurts).

Sanguinar's Devilsaur BBQ Sauce

2009-06-01T18:51:00.007-04:00

Looking for a BBQ Sauce with a bite? Look no further! Sanguinar's recipe is one to satisfy your craving for spicy.

Try this on meats, or as a dipping sauce for french fries.

What you need:
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup minced onion
1/2 cup minced green pepper
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
Pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 can (28 ounces) tomato sauce
2 cups ketchup (preferably Heinz)
1 cup water
3/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup molasses
1/4 cup cayenne pepper sauce
1/4 cup spicy brown mustard
3/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

1. Pour the oil into a large saucepan and set over medium-high heat. Toss in the onions, green peppers, and jalapenos and give them a stir.

**Note** To make this extra hot, you can add 2 or 3 seeded and minced Habanero peppers. Mmmm spicy! If you do, PLEASE be careful. Habanero peppers can cause a lot of pain and suffering. As a precaution, I would recommend wearing latex gloves as thoroughly washing hands when you're finished doesn't always get it all off.

Step 2. Season with a pinch of sa1t and pepper and cook til soft and golden. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Dump in everything else.

Step 3. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat so the sauce simmers. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4. Let it cool for a bit.

step 5. Pour it into a container, cover, and store in the fridge until ready to use.

ENJOY!

More BBQ Sauce:
Goodlee's WTF BBQ Sauce, Sanguinar's Devilsaur BBQ Sauce.

Mirage Raceway Rice Dishes, by Wrathfulfury

2009-05-31T19:36:00.008-04:00

Here are four great ways to prepare delicious rice and chicken dinners! Basically, when you choose which flavor you'd like, add the extra ingredients into Step 1 of your rice preparation.

What you need:
1 large pan with a lid
Olive Oil (Don't be stingy, you will need for frying the rice too.)
1-2 Onions; diced and sauteed
1-1/2 cups Long Grain Rice, uncooked
1-2 Chicken breasts, cooked

**Note** If your chicken is not cooked, here is a tip to cook it faster. Chop the chicken into small pieces, and cook the chicken in a skillet on high with a little olive oil. This will take about 3-6 minutes depending on the size and amount you use. You can be cooking your chicken while you're chopping your veggies, and starting on the rice. Just add it into the rice when it is cooked.

For the Rices:
Step 1. If you are starting from scratch, cook your rice. To cook it use 1 cup or rice, 2 cups of liquid. You can add the onion now, or after 10 minutes of the simmer (in Step 2).

Step 2. Put this all in a sauce pot and bring to a boil. Once it starts boiling, cover the rice and turn the temperature down to medium-low. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally (basically after 10 minutes stir it, and again at 15 or 20).

Wrathfulfury's 4 Seasoning Variations
These four recipes taste particularly good with the Ancona Chickens you can get down at the Mirage Raceway track. You can substitute the Anconas with supermarket chickens.

**Remember** These seasonings are variations that should be added in Step 1 of your rice preparation.

Basic Seasoned Chicken Rice
Instead of cooking the rice in water, use 1 cup of white wine, and 1 can of chicken broth.

Add diced carrot into the rice with your diced onion. Also, add a can of corn (or about a handful of frozen corn).

Tequila and Lime Chicken Rice
Instead of cooking the rice in water, use 1 cup of tequila, 2 cups of salsa, and 1 cup of chicken broth.

Add diced green chillies and corn to taste.

Jerked Chicken Rice
Instead of water, use 1/2 cup jerk seasoning, 1 cup rum, and 1 can of chicken broth.

Add diced carrot, celery, and bell pepper to onions.

Teriyaki Chicken Rice
Instead of water, use 1 cup sake, 1 cup teriyaki sauce, and 1/2-1 cup of chicken broth.

Add diced carrots, peas, and bits of pineapple. Yum!

Tasty Rice Ideas: Cashew Chicken with Ginger, Mirage Raceway Rice Dishes, by Wrathfulfury, Dazrel's Southshore Sweet'n'sour Chicken, Mmm Rice Dinners! Apple n' Chicken Stir Fry, Tips for Perfectly Steamed Rice, by Grizelle.

FTW Lasagna

2009-05-30T20:24:00.009-04:00

This is one of the simplest lasagna recipes in all of the lands. Whether you're elite at cooking, or just a noob starting off, it will work for everyone.

Couple notes: You will need an oven safe dish, and it should be around the 13x9 size. All of the prep you will need to really do is brown the ground beef (fresh, or thawed of course). You don't even have to cook the noodles first; making this recipe totally FTW!

The prep will take 8-15 minutes depending on how speedy you are in the kitchen. The bake is for an hour (45 minutes under foil, 15 minutes uncovered).

Mats:
1 lb ground beef (fresh or thawed)
1 egg. beaten
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 container of Ricotta cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
1 jar spaghetti sauce.
1 cup water
1 box of lasagna noodles

Step 1: Start off by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Then you will brown your ground beef in a skillet.

Step 2: While you're browning the beef, mix your egg and 1-1/4 cups of your mozzarella cheese, the Ricotta cheese and about 1/4 cup of your Parmesan cheese. Blend these all together, and then set them aside. You should have extra Mozzarella and Parmesan that will be used (Step 7) to cover the top of the lasagna.

Step 3: At this point your ground beef should be about done. When it's finished, drain the as much of the grease out of the meat as possible. Then return the meat to your skillet.

Step 4: Stir in the sauce. If you used a jar of sauce don't throw it out just yet! Instead, add the 1 cup of water to the empty jar, close the jar give it a good shake. Then add this to the meat mixture. If you chose to make your own Nubsauce, be sure to still add this cup of water to your mixture. This is what will be cooking your noodles.

Step 5: spread 1 cup of your sauce onto the bottom of the oven-safe dish. Top this with 3 uncooked noodles. Then layer the noodles with the cheese mixture you made. Finally, top the mixture with your ground beef sauce. Repeat this process for 2 more layers.

**Noodles-cheese mixture- meat sauce.** This is going to be your rotation. =)

Step 6. After you have finished doing Step 5 three times, you're going to finish by adding 3 more noodles, and the meat sauce to your lasagna.

Step 7. Take the remainder of the Mozzeralla and Parmesan cheeses that you divided and sprinkle them on top of everything.

Step 8. Cover with foil, and Bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, you will want to remove the foil, and put the lasagna back in the oven for another 15 minutes to make the cheese bubbly.

After that 15 minutes you'll have yourself one tasty lasagna.

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

Grizelle's Easy LAN Party Quiche

2009-05-30T14:54:00.006-04:00

Need an idea of what food to make for your next LAN Party? Here's a Grizelle original that will help when the munchies hit all your guests.

This recipe does take longer than a typical flight path, and really is suited for entertaining people. At the bottom of the post, Grizelle has included easy modifications for preparing a single, large quiche (as pictured). This will save you time in preparation, if that is your concern.

Remember to prepare this recipe ahead of time. Bake it while your guests are setting up their computers, so that it's nice and toasty when you serve them.

What you need:
4 Eggs
1 cup Milk
1/2 cup Half & Half
1 bunch of Scallions, chopped fine (about 1/2 cup)
1 cup diced Cooked Ham - about 1/4 inch pieces (I used the Hormel Black Label brand.)
1 cup shredded Swiss Cheese (I like the Amish variety.)
1 package Pillsbury All Ready refrigerated Pie Dough (2 pie shells)
Non-stick muffin tins

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 350, and unroll your pie dough. Cut circles in the dough with a biscuit cutter; this is for the quiche crusts. You can get 6-8 circles per pie dough sheet. I took the scraps and rolled them out to get a few more.

**Tip** If you don't have a biscuit cutter, use a large rimmed cup or washed tuna can (they are the perfect size), and cut out the circles. If you're using a cup, make sure that the rim is large enough to produce circle that will fill the bottom and sides of a regular sized muffin tin.

Step 2. Place a dough circle in each ungreased muffin cup, and gently press to cover the bottom, and about a half inch or so up the sides.

Step 3. Place about a tablespoon of the diced ham in each cup. Sprinkle with about a half teaspoon of the chopped scallions, and a tablespoon of the grated Swiss cheese.

Step 4. Lightly beat the eggs, and add milk & half & half. Stir until smoothly blended.

Step 5. Carefully pour the egg mixture over the filling in each cup. Do not pour higher than the dough - you may have to wait a bit and add some more as it has to trickle down. So go back to your comp, and make sure you haven't been ganked.

Step 6. Bake on middle rack in preheated 350 degree F oven for approximately 25 minutes. The quiches will puff up to fill the cups, and will be golden brown on top. A knife inserted should come out clean when it is fully set.

Step 7. Gently remove the quiches using a heat resistant spatula, and place them on a plate to serve.

This recipe made 16 quiches using regular sized muffin tins. You can use smaller or larger tins if you want, but you will have to play around with the amount of dough for the circles, and adjust the cooking time.

If you are concerned the quiches are going to get too brown before they are done, place a piece of aluminum foil loosely over the top for about the first half of the baking time.

For a large Quiche version:
If you want to make one big quiche, simply press one entire pie crust sheet in the bottom of an 8 or 9 inch pie pan. Spread your scallions, ham, and cheese evenly over the crust, and slowly pour the whole egg mixture over the top. Bake at 350 F, for about 30 minutes. Then test it with a knife same as the mini quiches. Just cut into wedges to serve.

Grizelle says, "I made these minis for an office brunch, and they were completely devoured!"

Helboar Bacon Buns, by Ozra, Moon Guard

2009-05-30T12:49:00.012-04:00

Although there are many types of boars throughout World of Warcraft, many of us can remember all the Helfire Peninsula boar quests. There were quite a few, but one of the most memorable ones involved purifying the Helboar meat for Legassi, the Chef Extraordinaire. After many failed attempts of purifying the meat (all those Tainted Helboar Meats sitting in your bag), your efforts are rewarded with Legassi's own Helboar Bacon.

Ozra, Moon Guard was inspired by Legassi's generosity, and offers us this treat to serve at LAN Parties instead of ordinary sandwiches. If you make these, your guests will always want to hold the parties at your place.

Another name for this dish is "Lazy American Bacon Buns," a parody of "Latvian Complicated Bacon Buns."

What you need:
1 lb Bacon - your favorite variety
1 large Sweet Onion
3 packages Crescent Rolls (typically 8 per package)
Pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of Butter

**Optional** 1 egg white, sugar

Step 1. Preheat oven to 350 or whatever the crescent roll package tells you.

Step 2. Dice onion

Step 3.Chop/Cut bacon into small pieces (scissors actually work well for this, the bacon may stick together at first if you cut 5-6 pieces at a time, but will separate while being sauteed.)

Step 4. Melt the butter in your skillet.

Step 5. Add the Bacon bits, and onion. Pepper to taste (except if you used peppered bacon).

Step 6. Sauté until bacon is mostly cooked, but not crispy and onion is soft. About 10 min on medium heat.

Step 7.Put bacon onion mix in freezer for 5 minutes, to bring its temperature down.

Step 8. Spoon mixture into unrolled crescent dough. Roll into crescent shapes.

Step 9. Bake for approximately 11 minutes, until crust is golden brown.

**Optional** Use the egg white, and a little bit of sugar to glaze the tops of bacon buns. This will help make the surface crispy.

Ozra says, "These things are freaking delicious, and easy to make!"

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, 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.

Telaari Grape Salad

2009-05-28T22:11:00.015-04:00

So I've been trolling the forums, and I've seen a few requests for a healthy snack. I think I have something to satisfy those requests. This is a recipe for grape salad.

This is something you would make ahead of time and let cool for a few hours, but you will have lots of left overs and its very, very tasty.

Mats:
2 lbs. Red Seedless grapes (They need to be washed and dried off. I usually throw them into a strainer with a paper towel on the bottom and top, and then I just dry them that way.)
8oz of room temperature Cream Cheese (Now for a healthier snack you could use a light cream cheese.)
8 oz of Sour Cream (again you could use a lite sour cream as well)
1/2 cup Sugar (this could be substituted with Splenda)
1 tbs. Vanilla extract
3/4 cup chopped Pecans (You can find them in the bakery isle at your grocery store.They will have tiny bags of already chopped pecans that work perfectly for this.)
3/4 cup Brown Sugar

Step 1: After you wash and dry off your grapes, you will want to put them in your dish that you will be serving this out of. I use a large chip bowl, because you will have left overs.

Step 2: In a separate mixing bowl, mix everything together minus the pecans. Mix this until it's smooth. Careful though, you don't want it to be runny.

Step 3: Once its mixed up, you will transfer it from the mixing bowl onto the grapes. (I then try to coat all the grapes with the mixture, but you don't have to. You could let it just sit on top of the grapes.)

Step 4: Add the pecans. Cover and let them sit in the fridge for a few hours to chill.

This recipe does take about 5-10 minutes to prep. Plus it does have a cool down time (Don't you love having those IRL too!) But, it will literally take you less than a minute to grab some out of the refrigerator, and have a yummy midnight, mid-day, mid-morning, mid-anything snack. That's both yummy and healthy.

More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, 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!

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, 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!

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, Curiously Tasty Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Omelet Sammich! How to Cook Perfect Bacon, Brazilian Puss in Boots, by Cygnusbr, Mmm Coffee!

Merry Making Peach and Apricot Hot Cider

2009-05-28T19:36:00.009-04:00

Remember back during the oh so fun time of the Merry Maker achievements, and you had to make hot apple cider? It sounded oh so good. Well, now you can do just that. Only In Real Life.

This recipe will call for a few things you might not have around the house. So you might need to make a trip to the grocery store to farm the mats up. And you will need a slow cooker (Crocpot).

Plus this recipe could easily be turned into a "hard apple cider" for the over level 21 peeps out there.

Mats:
2 Cups Peach Nectar
2 Cups Apricot Nectar
1 bag of frozen peach slices (or you could use fresh peaches if there available)
3 cups water
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 cup brown sugar
about a tsp. allspice - give or take.
2-4 cinnamon sticks, for serving as well.

* Now for the over 21* You could use some bourbon in this, or whatever else you want to spike your cider with. I would suggest using about a cup. But add more or even take some away to fulfill you own alcohol needs.*

Now there is really only one step to this. You will want to take all of the above ingredients and stir them together in your slow cooker. Once you're finished with that, you simply cover and cook it on low for 2-3 hours.

After the 3 hours, remove the cinnamon sticks, and then switch your cooker over to warm for serving.

*Another suggestion* Use the cinnamon sticks you cooked with in your cider. Gives it a little extra flavor.*

And there you have it. Your very own Merry Making, hot peach, and apricot Cider. A cider to make even the Copperpinch sellers jealous.

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.

Nethaera's Epic Chicken Nachos

2009-05-28T15:05:00.013-04:00

When a Blizzard Blue post purples on the OT Forums.

By the way, this was delicious!

What you need:
1 pre-cooked chicken or chicken breast (sold at most grocery stores)
Diced tomatoes
Chopped onion
1 small can of sliced black olives
1 package of shredded Mexican cheese
1 jar of cheese dipping sauce (usually jarred in the chip aisle)
1 bag of corn chips

**Optional Toppings** Sour Cream and Guacamole dip

Step 1. If your chicken is not cooked, cook the shredded chicken in some taco seasoning in a pan on the stove (since the pieces are small this will only take 2-3 minutes).

Step 2. Layer chips, cheese sauce, chicken, shredded cheese, tomato and onion as desired.

Step 3. Top with slice back olives.

Step 4. Place in microwave for approx 1 minute to slightly melt cheese or place in a 325 degree oven for five minutes.

Top with optional toppings and enjoy.

Other Tex-Mex Favorites: Nethaera's Epic Chicken 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, 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!

Dazrel's Southshore Sweet'n'sour Chicken

2009-05-28T14:40:00.005-04:00

The flavors from this dish will make you recall the back-and-forth pvp battles in Hillsbrad. It is especially reminiscent of those battles before you leveled your main to 80, and you were there for the first time.

**Note** This is a fantastic recipe to use up leftover rice, or you can start it from scratch. It will take longer than many of the recipes on this site, but is great for slow nights on WoW. Ya know, the ones where you're sitting in LFG for hours. It will take approximately 15-20 minutes to cook.

If you want to use a shortcut on the seasoning, you can also use a jar of sweet'n'sour seasoning, which you can find in most grocery stores. Just pour it on to your chicken and your veggies, let it marinade for 20 minutes, cook the chicken and veggies. Serve over rice.

What you need for this relatively easy sour, sweet chicken:
2 cups brown rice (White rice will work too, and if you have some leftover, or some minute rice that will cut a lot of time from this recipe)
1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce (can do low sodium if you want)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons apricot preserves
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 pound chicken tenders, cut into small pieces
4 cloves minced garlic
2 teaspoons grated or minced ginger
1 cup chicken broth
6 cups of pieces of vegetables, china peas, bean sprouts and bell peppers (changeable.. I prefer these but have heard others who like broccoli in theirs)
1 5-ounce can sliced water chestnuts, drained... Peanuts also work

Step 1. Prepare rice like normal (usually can microwave or use a rice cooker for better results).

Step 2. Whisk vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch and apricot preserves in a small bowl. Set aside for now...

Step 3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes or so. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink on the outside and just starting to brown in spots, about 2 minutes more. Transfer to a plate. I like to put them in the microwave or stove to keep them warm.

Step 4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, garlic and ginger to the pan and cook, stirring until fragrant. Add the broth and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Add vegetables and reduce heat to a simmer; cover and cook until the vegetables are tender but crisp, roughly 4 to 6 minutes. Stir in water chestnuts and the chicken. Whisk the reserved sauce and add to the pan. Simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thickened and the chicken is heated through, about 1 minute. Serve with the rice.

Keep in mind you could also use peanuts or other vegetables, those are just my preference on them.

Tasty Rice Ideas: Cashew Chicken with Ginger, Mirage Raceway Rice Dishes, by Wrathfulfury, Dazrel's Southshore Sweet'n'sour Chicken, Mmm Rice Dinners! Apple n' Chicken Stir Fry, Tips for Perfectly Steamed Rice, by Grizelle.

Goodlee's Cranberry Mayonnaise

2009-05-27T16:08:00.002-04:00

All this is is 1/2 and 1/2 of cranberry sauce and mayo, mixed together. Don't use miracle whip, because that already has a bunch of zest to it. Stick with real Mayonnaise for this dressing.

This is particularly tasty on Turkey based sandwiches and wraps.

Crunchy Boomkin Turkey Melt

2009-05-27T14:11:00.010-04:00

Today I was in Oculus and ran out of mana biscuits. Feeling hungry, and with my cannibalize down, I looked up and saw one of my party members. There she was in front of me. A nice tasty looking Boomkin.

"Oh Boomkin, how lovely you'd be on a sandwich," I called out.

How sad I was when she turned into a kitty and ran off. :*(

I later found her cowering beneath Dalaran. She was hiding with all the rats, near a pile of skulls from lost fighters. I couldn't help but feel a little sorry when I cursed her with agony, and corrupted her mind with shadows. But alas, and as I presumed...she tasted delicious!

What you need:
2 slices of toast
4-5 slices of Turkey
1-2 slices of Swiss Cheese (or Provolone)
A few slices of cucumber to give the sandwich a little crunch

Dressing: Honey Mustard, Ranch, or Goodlee's Cranberry Mayo would all taste good on this sandwich.

All this involves is toasting your bread, grilling your turkey, slicing your cucumber, and melting your cheese. Put it all together, and you have a tasty Boomkin melt.

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, 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.

Kim'Jael's Stuffed Chicken Cordon Bleu

2009-05-26T22:47:00.006-04:00

Melted Swiss, and a thick slice of ham embedded in a chicken breast; baked to warm and gooey perfection. This is a classic dish that is really simple to make. It makes me think of leveling outside of Stormwind. All the little chickens, pigs, and cows walking around, never knowing that I would hit 'em with my mace. Mmm, they sure were tasty!

You can serve it with a cream sauce or by itself. The breadcrumbs can be a little dry so I do recommend preparing a sauce. If you don't like the creamy sauces, you can try this with chicken gravy, but use sparingly as that will drown out the flavor of the chicken.

The cream sauces for the Cordon Bleu are usually pretty simple. Use a base of heavy cream, a little butter (1-2 tablespoons), and then are seasoned with onions (or shallots). I like to add a little garlic, and some fresh chopped parsley.

What you need:
2 Chicken Breasts
3 slices of Swiss Cheese
2 thick slices of Ham
1 Egg
Breadcrumbs to coat

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 350. While this is heating you have 2 options with your chicken.

Option A. Butterfly the chicken breast (slice it open, but do not cut all the way through, so that it resembles butterfly wings). This option will allow you to easily stuff the breast.

Option B. With a meat hammer pound the chicken breast to about a 1/4 inch height. This option will allow you to wrap the thinned breast around the Ham and Swiss. If you are serving to company this option has the visual appeal.

Step 2. Stuff or wrap your chicken around the ham and Swiss.

Step 3. Quickly beat your egg, and dip the stuffed chicken. In a separate bowl, add the breadcrumbs. Dip your egg-coated chicken into the breadcrumbs, coating the surface.

Step 4. Lay the chicken onto an oven-safe pan (coat with foil for easy cleanup).

Step 5. Bake the chicken for 35-40 minutes. To make sure that your chicken is cooked, jab it with a fork. If the juice is clear, then you're good. If the juice is pink, cook it for another 5-7 minutes, then check it again.

Enjoy with some wine! (As long as you're of age that is.) ;)

Bronzebeard Bacon Melt, by Anise

2009-05-25T18:18:00.007-04:00

This sandwich was submitted by Anise, and sounds really tasty!

I don't recommend this for everyday eating as it is a bit of a calorie bomb, but if you're having friends over for a LAN or something a little can go a long way.

What you need:
1 loaf French bread
6-10 slices Swiss cheese
4-8 slices of bacon
Green onions
Butter or butter-like substance

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 350.

Step 2. Slice the French bread into thick slices. Do NOT cut the bread all the way through. Leave a little membrane of crust attached at the bottom. Using your acrobatic skills, lightly butter both sides of the bread accordion's slices.

Step 3. Tear the cheese in half and insert one half between each slice of bread. Chop up the green onions and cram those in there too.

Step 4. Finally, remove the fatty bits from the uncooked bacon (it's better this way) and lay it across the top of the slices of bread. Don't worry, this won't hurt you.

Step 5. Put the bread accordion on a baking sheet and pop in oven. Cook it until the bacon is done.

WARNING: Do not eat this all yourself in one sitting.

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, 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.

Molten Core Chicken, by Anise

2009-05-25T17:20:00.002-04:00

This recipe is simple to make, but it has some ingredients that not everyone may have. So, get your butt out to the store! ;)

If you're a sissy when it comes to hot n' spicy, then skip this dish. It might not be as hot as a volcano, but it's pretty well up there on a lot of folks' spicy threshold.

What you need:
2 chicken breasts, cut into the smallest pieces you can get
However much garlic you like. It's a sin, but I use the stuff in the jar. ;)
As many Bird's Eye (or other hot) Chiles as you can handle (I usually use 3-4.)
1 Tbsp fish sauce
1 Tbsp soy sauce (I don't measure these, just glug it in until it looks like enough)
2 cups Fresh Basil (I like to use freeze-dried basil as my plants die all the time, so I use enough to coat the chicken), chopped up into little ribbons (chiffonade, if you're fancy)
1 tsp sugar
3/4 tsp Sambal Oelek (red chili paste)
Enough Sriracha to make your eyes water (I have to go light on this as my fiance doesn't like spicy, I just keep the bottle on my desk for my own purposes.)
Pepper to taste
Oil for cookin'
Rice for servin'

Step 1. Heat up the oil in your pan. In the meantime, chop up your chiles, leaving the seeds intact.

Step 2. Add the chiles and your garlic (from the jar or minced) to the hot oil. Fry this for 2-3 minutes or until nice and fragrant.

Step 3. Add the finely chopped chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4. Add the soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, sambal oelek, and sriracha. Continue to cook until the chicken is done, another 3-4 minutes. At this point the sauce is sort of thin, so I cook on med-high heat until it reduces to where it is not too saucy, but it more clings to the chicken.

Step 5. Add the basil (if you use freeze dried, toss in a handful, that should be enough to coat) and pepper (I do about 12 grinds of the ol' mill, your mileage may vary). Cook until the basil is wilted (or if freeze-dried, until reconstituted) and serve over rice.
Add more sriracha if needed. :3

**Optional** Try this recipe with a little Cumin!

Super Stuffed Ganking Apples

2009-05-24T20:17:00.020-04:00

These apples rock. They're very simple. Most of the mats you will usually have laying around the kitchen anyway so it will work out really well for you.

Mats:
4 larger apples (take your pick of apple, they all work)
1 tsp. Lemon juice
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup of either instant oatmeal or rolled oats
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
4 tablespoons butter (cut into individual slices)
1 tsp. cinnamon
*optional* chopped walnuts

Step 1. Alright, you will want to start off by preheating your oven to 425 degrees. While the oven is heating up you will want to take the insides out of the apples leaving the bottom so that nothing falls out. But you need to hollow the apple out as best as you can. You could save the apple bits (minus the core) that you took out and use them in the oat mixture (which is step 3).

Step 2. When your done that sprinkle each one with some lemon juice.

Step 3. In a separate large bowl you will want to mix the rest of the ingredients (minus the slices of butter) *this is where you would toss in the apple bits*

Step 4. Then take about a handful and begin to stuff the apples. Do not completely fill them. When you finish putting the first handful in each, evenly distribute whatever you have left into each apple.

Step 5. Take your slices of butter and put them on top of the stuffed apples.

Step 6. Place the apples on a cookie sheet, and bake for 20 minutes.

When you take them out you could top them with ice cream and/or whipped cream (Zonoma has an easy whipped cream recipe you could use).

You're all set with a rather healthy snack. Now go camp some gankers! The stuffed apples will make the experience all the better. =)

More Dessert Ideas: Chocolate Cherry Pie, Maple-Walnut Apple Pie, 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!

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, 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!

North American Goulash

2009-05-24T16:00:00.008-04:00

This is a twist on the elbow macaroni goulashes that are often included in cookbooks. Not only is it a great way to use up left over ground beef (or cubes), it is so easy to make. True this is not a Hungarian stew, but it is sure to please. :)

What you need:
1-1.5 lbs of cooked ground beef (or cubes); seasoned with salt, pepper, parsley, onion flakes, and basil.
1 box of Rotini noodles
2 cans of Italian style, diced tomatoes
1 can of tomato sauce (for seasoning, try the Nubsauce recipe)

Top with some Parmesan and/or Mozzarella Cheese

Step 1. Cook your noodles, and brown your seasoned ground beef.

Step 2. Add the canned tomatoes to the drained noodles.

Step 3. Add your Nubsauce to the cooked beef. Let this simmer, covered and on low heat for about 15 minutes.

Step 4. Mix the Beefy Nubsauce to the noodles and tomatoes.

Presto! A delicious meal for 4-6 people.

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

Nesingwary Stromboli

2009-05-24T13:03:00.005-04:00

Okay, I figured that we had to come up with a recipe to use all the animals from the Nesingwary quest chains. I mean really, I cannot even count how many creatures I've killed for those guys on all my toons.

I must say that they sure are tasty as a Stromboli!

This Stromboli was made by a friend, and was delicious.

What you need:
6-8 slices of Ham (Black Forest Ham tastes awesome in this.)
10 slices of Salami
6 Slices of Provolone
1/2-1 lb Seasoned and browned ground beef (Season it like you would a meatball.)
Spicy Brown Mustard
**Optional: A little Parmesan Cheese and/or Mozzarella to top Stromboli
Pizza dough (homemade or store bought)

Dipping Sauce: A thick tomato sauce goes great with this!

Step 1. Season and brown your ground beef. This will take about 15 minutes on medium heat. Just stir to flip the meat occasionally.

Step 2. Preheat the oven to 350, and roll out your dough. Smear a little mustard on the surface. Leave about an inch of space from the edges, so that it doesn't squish out.

Step 3. Line with your meats. Check the image at the top of this entry if you're confused.

Step 3. Add the cooked ground beef.

Step 4. Roll your Stromboli. Think of a jelly roll, replicate this idea. Pinch the edges together. Brush with a little olive oil, and add the cheese topping.

Step 5. In an oven-safe pan, bake at 350 for approximately 25-35 minutes. When the Stromboli crust is nice and golden brown, it is finished.

Let cool for about 5 minutes before slicing.

Similar Recipe Ideas to Try: Goodlee's Monster Stromboli, Summerfest Spinach Calzone, Pepperoni Calzone, Sausage and Peppers Calzone, Nesingwary Stromboli.

Manicotti Made Easy

2009-05-22T16:27:00.010-04:00

If you're a stuffed shells fan, Manicotti will be up your alley. They can be a little trickier to fill, but you can always slice the cooked Manicotti lengthwise, fill, then bake and serve with the slice on the bottom.

The above picture is of Manicotti stuffed with pepperoni and garlic. You can add some mozzarella too!

What you need:
1 Package of Manicotti Shells
1 Large container of Ricotta Cheese
Shredded Mozzarella to taste
Tomato Sauce (Try the Nubsauce for a Corn-Syrup Free Tomato Sauce).
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Pepperoni (optional)
Spinach (optional)
Black Olives (optional)
Mushrooms (optional)

Typical Italian Seasonings (Fresh if you have them!): Parsley, Garlic, Oregano, Basil.

Step 1. Boil the water for the Manicotti. Use some salt or olive oil to help prevent the shells from sticking to each other. Cook the Manicotti for 7-10 minutes, after the water is already boiling.

**Tip** Drain the hot water asap, and run some cool water over the pasta to stop it from cooking further.

Step 2. Preheat your oven to 350, and prepare your fillings. What I like to do it mix the spices and other treats into the Ricotta. If you're going to add tomato sauce to the Ricotti, use it sparingly as that will make the Manicotti more difficult to stuff.

**Filling Ideas: With all the filling choices, mix your choice with the Ricotta, a little Parmesan and seasonings.

Pepperoni and Mozzarella. Chop the pepperoni and add that and the mozzarella to the ricotta.

Spinach and Garlic

Mushrooms and Spinach

Spinach, Black Olives, and Onion

Seasoned and Browned Ground Beef (tastes like a meatball!)

The above picture is of Manicotti stuffed with Spinach, Tomato Sauce (use sparingly), garlic, onion, and is topped with Mozzarella and oregano.

Step 3. Pour a little tomato sauce on the bottom of an oven safe pan. Place the stuffed Manicotti on top. Coat with a little more sauce and some mozzarella cheese. The sauce will help keep the Manicotti moist, and prevent them from sticking.

**Tip** Do not overcrowd your pan. Leave about a pinky-finger space between each Manicotti to prevent them from sticking to each other.

Step 4. Bake at 350 for 30-40 minutes (until the top is bubbly and the cheese is melted).

Let your Manicotti cool for 3-5 minutes before serving. This will help prevent them from falling apart.

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