Cookies

Creme de Menthe Brownies

When I got married, I wanted to get a few of my husband's family recipes, and this one is at the top of the bunch. His Aunt Sus gave it to me; they are her Christmas standby, and now they are mine too. They are so moist, and the chocolate and mint combo is a… Continue reading Creme de Menthe Brownies

Cookies

Sand Lake Cookies

My friend Margit brought these to me at an impromptu Halloween party in 1999 at my house. I thought they looked "interesting," but oh when I tasted them... They were great! Margit's family used to go to Sand Lake in Minnesota every summer and would bring these cookies, thus the name. They are almost like… Continue reading Sand Lake Cookies

Cookies

Peanut Butter Stars

These are a must for the holidays and my husband's favorites. I've had many versions, but these are the best, courtesy of my friend Sandy, who also says it isn't Christmas in her house without these! Peanut Butter Star Cookies Makes 3 dozen cookies 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup margarine or… Continue reading Peanut Butter Stars

Pasta · Poultry

Book Club Pasta

Looking for a recipe that serves a large group and looks pretty?  I love this one with all my heart.  It comes from my friend Irene (an amazing cook), but I think Tracy holds the record for making it.  The mixture of asparagus, basil, and walnuts make this a bite of heaven.   Debone the roasted… Continue reading Book Club Pasta

Breakfast · Salty

Chili Egg Puff Breakfast Casserole

We would not steer you wrong.  Egg casseroles are a dime a dozen, and this is a clear winner.  I think it is from my friend Sandy in Portland, but it's been so long, who knows now. I follow the directions, except that sometimes I add some good diced ham for another all-in-one meal. If… Continue reading Chili Egg Puff Breakfast Casserole

Poultry

Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie

The Superstorms of 2011 brought out comfort food at its best. Thanks to the Super Bowl, we have a cute name for a week of ice and snow. I love a good pot pie. I make this and also add a half of a cubed potato. I used smoked turkey that was left over from… Continue reading Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie

Vegetarian/General

Butternut Squash Lasagna

I'm crazy about butternut squash, especially when I find it already peeled and cubed. This recipe isn't exactly quick, but it makes 2 pretty big ones, so  you have an extra for the freezer or for a friend. It's another Cooking Light recipe, with only 254 calories per portion. But don't hold this against it.… Continue reading Butternut Squash Lasagna

Breakfast · Sweet

The Best Spiced Pumpkin Bread

This is my go-to pumpkin bread recipe, from Epicurious - originally appearing in Bon Appetit. It makes two smallish loaves, perfect to freeze one. Or up your organization game by making 4 small loaves. Then you can give the illusion of being a great hostess by popping them out of the freezer anytime! They're great… Continue reading The Best Spiced Pumpkin Bread

Poultry

The World’s Best Chili

It's cold in Texas, and I am in the mood for chili! I have made this recipe for years since having it at my Portland neighbor Stacy's house. It's flexible! My neighbor served it over rice, but in our house, we opt for Fritos. I usually use turkey, but you can use beef. And although… Continue reading The World’s Best Chili

Pick-Em-Ups

Bacon Wrapped Apricot Almond

Parties and bacon go together like,  well.....bacon goes with everything.   We love people like Caren that bring the new and different.   These can be assembled the night before which is an added bonus!   Bacon Wrapped Apricot Almond1 pkg of dried apricots 1/2 c. whole almonds 1 lb of bacon 1/4 c. plum/apple jelly for sayce… Continue reading Bacon Wrapped Apricot Almond