Vegged- Out Potato Salad

I'm so excited to share this recipe! This past week I have fallen in love with this woman who has created the Hungry Girl Recipes! I even went out an bought one of her cook books! Her recipes make me feel so healthy and are so yummy! So naturally I found this recipe in her cookbook and on her website! Yes she has a website that has even more goodness on it!!!

ingredients

Salad

• 1 pound potatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup frozen petite peas and carrots, thawed
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions

Dressing

• 1/4 cup fat-free mayo
• 1/4 cup fat-free sour cream
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon sweet relish
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

directions

• 1
  Put potatoes in a large pot and fill with enough water to cover potatoes. bring water to a boil
• 2
  Once boiling, continue to cook until potatoes are soft, about 10 minutes. Carefully drain, transfer potatoes to a large bowl and set aside.
• 3
  combine all dressing ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Set aside.
• 4
  Once potatoes are cool, add all remaining salad ingredients to the large bowl. Add dressing and lightly toss to coat.
• 5
  refrigerate for at least an hour before serving, then eat up!
  
  Guys, this recipe is awesome! I've always loved potato salad but always felt like I was eating my weight after just one serving but with this recipe I feel like I could just keep eating it and I actually made it like three more times... I know a little obsessive, but that is why I'm showing it to you guys so you can also taste the awesomeness of it!!! She also said something about the mini candy canes only being like 17 calories!!! Sorry that was really random but She just has so much information about things and I can't help but be so interested by her and her recipes. Just check out her site! you'll know exactly what I mean!
  
  Ta Ta for now,
  Lil'
  Char

Black Forest Cupcakes!

I don't know why but Christmas time makes me want to bake and, well eat! haha I found this recipe on food network. I'm not a pop drinker so it was a little weird seeing that there's pop in this recipe but it was still a lot of fun to make!  

ingredients

• 1 (18.25-ounce) box devil’s food cake mix
• 1 1/3 cups black cherry soda
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 eggs
• 1 container vanilla frosting
• 2 teaspoons cherry extract
• 1 to 2 drops pink food coloring
• 24 whole maraschino cherries with stems

directions

• 1 Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 (12-cup) muffin tins with paper liners.
• 2 In a large bowl combine cake mix, soda, vegetable oil and eggs. Using a hand mixer combine all ingredients, batter will still be somewhat lumpy. Pour batter into muffin cups. Bake 19 to 22 minutes, turning the pans halfway through baking. Remove to a rack and allow to cool completely.
• 3 In a large bowl combine frosting, extract and pink food coloring. When cupcakes are cool ice with pink cherry frosting and top each with maraschino cherry
  
  

  

   This recipe was really good! I was worried that you'd be able to taste the pop but you really can't all that much and when you do its kind of refreshing! I think the best part about this cup cake is that its easy to make and it has cherries! I love Cherries! I wish I could be writing this and eating one but my roommates kind of had a feast and ate them all before I could write about it.... Sorry guys! Anyway, please try this and send me pictures or like recipes. I would love to hear from you guys!
  
  Ta Ta for now,
  Lil' Char
  
  
  

Ham and Egg Cups!

So I found this recipe on pinterest awhile ago and have been making them for awhile now and I love them and so does my super picky dad! haha Anyway, its super easy and a ton of fun to eat! If you don't like runny eggs then I suggest you skip over this recipe, but if you love your eggs on a super delicious runny side then keep on reading!

ingredients

• 12 Eggs
• 12 thin slices of deli ham (round)
• 1/2 Cup of your favorite cheese (I used Parmesan or Colby Jack)
• 1/2 Cup diced scallions
• Fresh cracked Sea Salt and Pepper

directions

• 1
  Preheat the oven to 400. Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray. Lay a piece of ham in each hole creating a little ham cup. Crack one egg into each hole and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• 2
  Bake the eggs for about 12 minutes…until the white is firm and the yolk is still nice and runny.
• 3
  Carefully remove each egg from the muffin tin and top with grated cheese and scallions. Serve hot!
  
  
   This is a great recipe that's quick and yummy! If you don't like ham then try Turkey its just as good!!! Actually, basically all  lunch meats are good, well maybe not roast beef. I did like salami too! okay anyway, I really think everyone should try this recipe!
  
  Ta ta for now,
  
  Lil' Char

Apple Cider Caramels

Sorry guys for not posting last week. I totally spaced it, so this week you'll have to stay tuned for my other recipe! It might be another candy recipe or maybe chicken, or even a pork recipe! That's all I'll give you for now! 

This recipe I found through a friend! She sent it to me and I couldn't help but try it!!! So I'm writing this as it sits in my fridge cooling.  It made my apartment smell so good that I really wanted to just try it when it was on the stove but with it being at about 244 degrees I thought it might hurt a bit... As for my roommates they were hovering over me just waiting for it to be done so we all could just munch on some really good caramels! Even my kitties were hovering around my legs waiting for me to drop some for them to munch on.... Sometimes I think they are dogs. Its true, they act more like begging dogs than kittens. Anyway, this recipe is from the blog, I heart Nap Time. Its a funny name I know but she is very insightful on making these caramels. She has many good tips and some awesome Pictures!

Ingredients

• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream divided
• pinch ground cloves
• 1 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 3 tbsp water
• 1/3 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup butter cubed

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, boil apple cider for 20-30 minutes or until it is reduced down to 1/3 cup. Set it aside to cool.
2. Line a 8x8 pan with parchment paper. Coat with a bit of cooking spray and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, combine 2/3 cup whipping cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and reduced apple cider. Set aside.
4. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, 1/3 cup whipping cream, water, and corn syrup. Cook over low heat until the sugar dissolves (about 5-10 minutes). Insert a candy thermometer and simmer until the syrup reaches 230 degrees.
5. Remove pan from heat and whisk in the cider and cream mixture. Add the butter and combine until fully incorporated. Return the pan to heat and re-insert candy thermometer. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the temperature reaches 244 degrees. Once temperature reaches 244 degrees, cook for 2 minutes longer.
6. Remove from heat and pour the caramel into the prepared pan. Let the mixture cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
7. Once cooled, cut the caramels into squares or rectangles and wrap each caramel in wax paper. Store in an airtight container or in the refrigerator. 

So My one mistake on this recipe was that I didn't have parchment paper so I thought if I buttered a pan that I could call it good... Well that didn't work. I got the caramels stuck to it. The best part is that it still worked out fine! all you had to do was press it into shape when you wrapped it in wax paper. As for that part I have a roll of wax paper so I just cup up some pieces and wrapped! I do know  at craft stores they have pre- cut wax papers that you can buy but I was lazy and didn't want to drive to the store when i could just cut it up. As for the flavor of this amazing caramel I loved it! I'm a major fan of anything apple so I don't think there's enough apple but its still really good! I don't know if my roommates liked it yet but when they bother get home I know they will have to try it! Again, I'm sorry about not posting last week. I will have another one up soon to fix that problem! Keep an eye out and I hope you try some of these recipes! I know you'll all love them!

Ta Ta for now,
Lil' Char

Chicken fajita chowder

This chowder is great for fall! it has a Mexican kick and isn’t spicy!!! Great with chips or bread. I don't remember where I actually found it. I think it might have been a Betty Crocker recipe but I'm not really sure anymore.

ingredients

• 3 Tablespoons all purpose flour
• 1.4 oz package fajita or taco seasoning mix divided
• 4 boneless chicken breasts, cubed
• 3 tablespoons veggie oil
• 1 onion chopped
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 15 1/4 oz can sweet corn and diced peppers, drained
• 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 14 1/2 oz can Mexican- style stewed tomatoes
• 4.5 oz can chopped green chilies
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup instant brown rice, uncooked
• 10 3/4 oz can nacho cheese soup
• 1 1/4 cup water

directions

• 1
  Combine flour and 2 tablespoons seasoning mix in a large plastic zipping bag, add chicken. seal bag and shake to coat. Saute chicken in hot oil in a large pot over high heat about 5 minutes, until golden stirring often.
• 2
  Reduce heat to medium high, Add onions and garlic; saute 5 minutes. Stir in remaining seasoning mix, corn, and next 5 ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Add soup and 1 1/4 cups water; thoroughly heated. Sprinkle with desired toppings and garnish.

notes

Toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, tortilla chips Garnish: fresh chipped cilantro


I really liked this recipe. Well I am posting it so i would hope that I liked it! Anyway, when I made this recipe I wasn't expecting for it to make so much. I think next time I do make it I'll only make a half batch. Its bad that I have so many leftovers that my roommates and I are sick of eating it. Well actually thats not really a bad thing. What I do like it that it had the tastes of a chicken taco but without the major mess of a taco. I bet this would be just as good with beef or pork! I should try that sometime, or one of you can and tell me how it goes. I would love to hear back from you guys!.

Ta Ta for now,

Lil' Char

Char's Fried Rice!

Hey guys, Sorry this is a day late but I kind of had to much of a lazy day yesterday and spaced that i had to update my blog. Sorry! Anyway, this post is dedicated to my Aunt who keeps asking me to send her this recipe. I made it for her on our family trip and everyone in my family loved it. I don't know where I actually found this recipe originally. I just make it from memory by now so I'm sorry if it doesn't make sense. I typed it up from memory. I usually just throw things in and don't measure so it was a little weird to actually measure everything out.  Oh and be prepared to make a lot of dishes. I usually use three different pans so I make plenty of dishes but I also make a ton of this recipe because it makes perfect leftovers!

Ingredients

4 cups rice (I use minute rice white or brown)

1 Tablespoon olive oil

1 clove of minced garlic

1 teaspoon minced ginger root (use a vegetable peeler to peel the skin. Just use the meat of the root)

1 cup frozen peas and carrots

1 green onion chopped (don’t put in until the end. Just toss into it before serving)

1 can Baby corn (optional)

½ cup Mushrooms (optional)

1 small can Chopped Water Chestnuts (optional)

1 to 2 eggs

½ cup oyster sauce (I use Stir fry sauce. I think it tastes better)

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions-

1.       Cook the rice. I follow the package directions for this one!

2.       In a separate pan cook the ginger and garlic in the oil. Only cook for a few minutes until its fragrant.

3.       Add in the veggies and cook. When the rice is done add to the pan of veggies. Make sure that you use a large pan for this.

4.       In a separate pan scramble up the eggs and add to the rice and veggies mixture. When warm add in the sauce and mix well!

5.       Now its time to eat it!

You can always add in chicken or steak. 

What I love about this recipe is that I can add whatever I feel like that day! I love making this when I have a bunch of veggies in my fridge that needs to be used up. This recipe is perfect for that! Although you wont see me use baby corn. I feel like its weird and if I wanted corn I would just add normal corn.  Plus I really don't like oyster sauce so I use stir fry sauce. I really like Lee Ann Chin sweet and sour sauce or teriyaki. This recipe is really easy and super yummy! Believe me I've been making it for a very long time! If you want to make it a full meal then I would suggest adding chicken. What I like to do with the chicken is marinate in the stir fry sauce for a half hour, then cube it and add it to the pan before the veggies but you can do whatever you like! The fried rice I made today only had peas, carrots, and eggs in it. I didn't want to buy everything so I just made some super vegged fried rice. I also made some chicken breasts to pun with it. Its basically chicken marinated in the same sauce used for the rice and pan fried. I was going to chop it up and put it in the rice but I thought it would look pretty next to the rice. Well I hope you guys like this recipe!

Ta ta for now,

Lil' Char

Chicken fruit salad

This fruit salad is easy and its one serving! the whole recipe is one major serving of yummy! The only thing this recipe is missing is the granola! I found it in the same cookbook as before and I need a quick and easy lunch for work. It was easy to make and super simple! Oh the cookbook is called Incredibly easy Chicken by Favorite Brand Name recipes. I don't really know if that's the author but It was on the cover so I gave it to you!

Ingredients

1/2 cup diced roasted skinless chicken
1/2 rib celery, cut into 1 -inch pieces
1/4 cup drained Mandarin orange slices
1/4 cup seedless grapes
2 tablespoons lemon  yogurt
1 tablespoon mayo
1/4 teaspoon soy sauce
1/8 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon

Directions

1. toss together the chicken, celery, oranges, and grapes. place in a air tight container.
2. Mix together the yogurt, mayo, soy sauce, and pumpkin pie spice and place in a small air tight container.
3. For serving pour the sauce over the salad or dip pieces into the sauce!

I'm sorry this is so short but I felt like it had to be shared! It was so good! I even had it two days in a row! The second time I made the sauce I added a little more lemon yogurt and I thought it tasted better but its all about preference. I really like lemons! I would really recommend this for people on a diet! I don't know why but it made me feel healthy just looking at the pictures! haha Oh and sorry this post was out so late. I had to work a double.

Ta Ta for now,

Lil' Char

Savory Dill Chicken

Hey guys,
Today I have a recipe that is actually from a cook book! I know right? No pinterest today! Anyway, I've been in the mood for chicken and I remembered I had this cookbook all about chicken that my brother got for me for Christmas one year! I'm pretty sure he found it in the bargain bin because I shop in the cook book section all the time and I've never seen it before! The cookbook is called Incredibly Easy Chicken. Believe me when the name says it all! I really didn't have to do much with it but it still turned out good! There are a bunch of recipes that I want to try from it but I also don't want to eat a month of chicken.

Ingredients:

2 Tablespoons I can't believe its not butter spread ( I used real butter for this)
1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 cup water
1 package KNORR recipe classics vegetable or spring vegetable soup, dip and recipe mix
1/4 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/2 cup sour cream

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, melt your butter over medium- high heat and brown chicken, turning occasionally about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in water, recipe mix, and dill weed. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to low and simmer covered, stirring occasionally, 10 minutes or until chicken is thoroughly cooked. Remove chicken to serving plate and keep warm.

3. Remove skillet from high heat; stir in sour cream. Spoon sauce over chicken and serve, If desired, with noodles.

Oh my gosh guys this recipe is amazing! I wasn't sure how it would turn out but I really like it! I think next time I might try it with an onion soup mix. I just really like onions and I feel like it needs more vegetables but over all it was yummy! I made it over noodles and I also added a few extra scoops of sour cream to make my sauce a little creamier. Plus the best part was that I will have extra for my lunch tomorrow! I like the idea of having extras! I will have to let you know how it tastes re- heated! Again please try this recipe and tell me how it goes! Also pictures are always welcomed!




Ta Ta for now,
Lil' Char

Happy Halloween Everyone!

So today is Halloween and also my last day as a vegetarian. Its been a long and fun adventure with this and I must say to all vegetarians out there that you guys are awesome and I give you props!!! As for me I don't think I can do it for a life kind of thing. I think I can handle a week or so every few months or something like that. Sorry I stopped posting a lot after a few weeks. I had a lot of work related things that came up. I look back on this month and realize that it has been a great month! I got to try so many new recipes and I even got to eat my favorite dinner all the time! haha! If anyone every tries this or is thinking about switching, grilled cheese is the best fail safe!!! you can always add tomatoes, avocado, onions, green peppers, any veggies you want! What I believe the hardest part of this was the craving for a burger and when I was at work and they were cutting the super delicious turkey I wanted to eat it so badly! But thankfully I refrained! I told my self I could make it a month and I have! I have decided to stay as a flex-atarian, which basically I will eat vegetarian but can still eat meat when I crave it or go out with friends. That will make life easier than finding vegetarian options.... Its really not that easy. Everything has bacon in it these days!

Well that's my update!

Lil' Char

Angry Orchard cupcakes

Sorry guys for such an easy recipe. My friend found the recipe so I just decided to make it! I'm sorry I can't tell you where she found it. When she gave it to me it was written down on a price of paper so I don't know where it came from. If this is your recipe, you're amazing! Haha. Well lets get on with the show!

ingredients

3 eggs
one box of spice cake mix
1 cup angry orchard or other hard cider
1/2 cup oil

directions
basically you just follow the directions on the back of the box. I made the cupcakes.

I used a jar cream cheese mix but you can always make your own but if you do sub angry orchard for the water and it will be awesome!

Sorry I didn't post pictures with this.... I basically made it and before I could take pictures they were gone! I'm glad my friends loved them but next time I'm going to actually try them! yes I never got to try it but everyone said it was super yummy! Sorry this post is so short.

Lil' Char

Skinny Alfredo Spaghetti Squash

Hey guys,
Today I'm bringing you an amazing recipe! Now, I've had spaghetti squash before and its really good. I love it with a little bit of marinara sauce but today its an Alfredo recipe! I found this recipe on pinterest! The original post is from a blog called the Comfort of cooking. I haven't actually looked at it much yet but if her other posts are like this one I know I'll like it!

Ingredients:

1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
1 Tablespoon butter
3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
2 Tablespoons flour
1 1/2 cups milk(I used fat-free)
1 Tablespoon cream cheese or Neufchatel cheese
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus 2 Tablespoons extra for topping
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes and fresh parsley, for optional garnish

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
First, prep the squash. Cut spaghetti squash in half using a large sharp knife, scoop out the seeds and place cut side down on a rimmed baking sheet covered with water. Bake until tender, about an hour.
As an alternate way of baking: Poke a few holes deep into the whole squash with a paring knife. Bake for 60 minutes, remove from the oven and let rest for 10 to 20 minutes before slicing in half with a large serrated knife. Scoop out the seedy inside leaving the spaghetti strands.
Once squash is cooked, use a fork to gently scrape the “spaghetti” strands into the center.
For the sauce, melt butter in a small pot over medium-low heat. Once hot, add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Whisk in flour, cooking for another minute while stirring. Whisk in milk until no lumps remain. Once hot, add cream cheese and stir until smooth. Remove from the heat. Stir in Parmesan, salt and pepper.
Spoon sauce equally into each spaghetti squash half. Gently pull up the spaghetti strands to coat as much as possible with the sauce. Top with extra Parmesan and place under the broiler of your oven for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Top each half with a pinch of red pepper flakes and fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

Be careful when you take the spaghetti squash off the pans... It will be very hot and I almost burnt myself.

I loved this recipe and I can't wait until winter to make this again. It seemed like the perfect winter recipe. The only problem is I couldn't eat it all! Haha! I liked that it had a homemade Alfredo sauce. It added a lot more flavor and you know exactly what goes in it! Although in weird, I added maybe a teaspoon of pepper. I'm a pepper kind of girl!

since the month is over half way I thought I'd update you on how my month is going. So far I haven't touched meat in 22 days! I'm so proud that I have almost made it! My roommate even made tacos for us to celebrate our half month mark! I almost failed when I went out to eat the other day. I ordered a grilled cheese and they put bacon one it! Who puts bacon on a grilled cheese? Anyway they replaced it for me and it was super yummy! With work I'm okay. Its a bit hard when I want to try something but it has meat in it so I don't. I feel so bad when a costumer asks how it tastes and I have to explain that I'm currently not eating meat. Most are happy to take a taste though! I haven't decided if I'm going to completely change to a veggie diet but I also don't know if i want to go back to eating meat. Its a hard choice.
well that's it for now,
Lil' Char!  

Easy Veggie Lo Mein

This recipe was amazing! Its easy and quick! Once again I couldn't find the original post. when I clicked on the entry on pinterest it just came up with a picture so whoever posted this I give you credit!

Ingredients-

Pasta- I used a ramen packet. I know gross but I wanted a single serve and  I love those noodles.

garlic- 1 tsp minced
green onions- 2 TBSP
Veg. oil- 1 TBSP
sesame oil- a dash (less than 1/8 tsp)
Mushrooms- a small bunch sliced
soy sauce- 1/4 cup
sesame seeds- a dash

Directions-
 
Cook pasta to al dente, drain. Sauté garlic and green onions in veg oil and a little sesame oil. (and 1TBSP red pepper flakes if you like heat) Toss in pasta and 1/4 cup Soy sauce and sesame seeds. Cook 2 minutes tossing frequently and you have perfect Lo mien!



I recommend making this and adding random veggies. Just the noddles its really bland but with veggies its super good! My roommates was the best! sorry I didn't take a picture of it. Only mine. As for mine I added way to much soy sauce and man was it salty!!! I basically had to trash it and eat my roommates... or what she would let me. Please enjoy and post pictures if you try! I'd love to see your version!

Like always,
Lil' Char

Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

Okay guys, so I found this on yet again Pinterest! the only problem I had was finding who actually posted it originally so I can't give you much information on that. I will say that whoever did had found or created an amazing recipe!

Ingredients-

2 ripe bananas
1 cup quick oats
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1 heaping spoonful of peanut butter


Directions-

Mash all ingredients together and roll into a ball. I didn't smash mine down and it basically stayed in a ball so I would suggest pressing down a little bit. Then bake at 350 for 15 minutes! It's that simple!


Oh my gosh guys these cookies are healthy and simple! My roommates boyfriend just ate them up! I did let him though. Sorry this recipe is so simple but it was so good I had to post it! The recipe really only makes like 8 cookies depending on how big you make them. The picture on the pan is actually cooked.

Lil' Char

Scandinavian Stew (Vegetarian)

Okay guys, this stew is amazing! Its fall and here in MN the weather is getting cold so its the best time to break out the soup recipes. My roommate is a vegetarian and just hanging out with her makes me want to broaden my horizons by trying new recipes that are meatless or completely vegan! Although I'm a little nervous about trying tofu I was willing to try this stew recipe. It has no meat but also no tofu! Thank God! haha! So now deciding to try these kind of meals was easy but finding the right ones for me was a little bit harder. So i did the only logical thing. I went out to my local bookstore and bought a Betty Crocker vegetarian cookbook! Let me tell you some things in this cookbook are a little scary but at the same time a little adventurous! I really suggest getting this cookbook!

Ingredients

8 to 10 small red potatoes, cut into fourths (3 cups)

2 cups fresh or frozen baby-cut carrots

3 tablespoons margarine or butter

3 medium green onions, sliced (1/3 cup)

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1/2 cup frozen green peas

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/8  teaspoon pepper

2 tablespoons chopped fresh or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed

1 hard-cooked egg, chopped 

 

Directions 

 

1.  Mix potatoes and carrots in 3-quart saucepan; add enough water to cover. Heat to boiling; reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook 8 to 10 minutes or until tender; drain in colander. Wipe out saucepan with paper towel.

 

2.  Melt margarine in same saucepan over medium heat. Cook onions in margarine 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in flour. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and boils.

 

3.  Stir in potatoes and carrots, peas, salt and pepper. Cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender.

 

4.  Stir in dill weed. Cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Top each serving with chopped egg and, if desired, additional dill weed.

 

 

 

 Now that I have tried this recipe I think it is one of my new Fall/ Winter favorites!  I can't wait to try it again! When I went to the store I bought a couple red potatoes and then used some golden ones that I had left over. I think it would have tasted the same if I would have used all baby reds. The flavor was awesome and the Hard boiled egg added just the perfect touch! I loved everything about this. I would definitely suggest using penzys dried dill weed! It has to be by far the best I've ever found. I really like dill weed! I think it adds a fun flavor. Please enjoy this recipe as much as I did!  

Black Bean Tacos!!!

Oh my gosh guys this recipe is so yummy! I again found this one on pinterest. When I saw it I wasn't very sure that I'd like it but oh my gosh its amazing. This post was originally on is Cornerstone Cooking! I haven't actually looked at it as much as I have done with the others but from this recipe I will be sure to keep looking! This recipe will definitely be in my keeper pile!

Ingredients

• 2 C. black beans, cooked
• ½ C. red onion, minced
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 2 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped
• 4-6 ounces pepper jack cheese, grated
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• 8 corn tortillas
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Salsa
• Sour cream

 

Instructions

1.  In a medium bowl, add beans along with red onion, cilantro, and spices. Add a pinch of salt and lightly mash all of the ingredients together. Grate your cheese and have it ready as well.
2.  In a large, non-stick skillet, add a few tablespoons of oil and heat over medium-high heat.
3.  Add one corn tortilla at a time and let each get hot in the oil for a few seconds. I tested it with my hand. All you have to do it touch the surface of the tortilla and make sure its warm. Then add about 1/4 cup of the bean filling to one half of the tortilla. Top with a sprinkle of grated cheese.
4.  Using a spatula, carefully fold the tortilla over so it forms a shell. Press down lightly on the tortilla so it holds its shape.
5.  As the first tortilla cooks, move it to the side and do a second one. Depending on the size of your pan, you should be able to get 2 or 3 tacos at once. If you have a griddle you can do even more at once. (we could only get 2 in at a time but it was worth it)
6.  Cook each taco for about 3 minutes per side until they are nicely browned and crispy.
7.  When flipping the taco to cook on the other side, use a spatula and flip the taco toward the fold so the filling doesn’t fall out.
8.  Serve tacos with toppings like hot sauce, salsa, avocados, and sour cream. My friend and I added ranch. She is obsessed with ranch! haha.

Note: Corn tortillas are resilient to heat. Don’t worry about burning them. They are very flexible. Just be sure to cook them on each side long enough to get them really crispy. this is important! I didn't see it the first round of tacos and they didn't get as crunchy as I wanted, but still good!

 As I said before this recipe is amazing! I loved it and I can see me making it again and again! I loved the kick of cilantro when you bit in. My roommate on the other hand didn't like it because of the cilantro. I think that if I make it again I might add a little bit of taco seasoning and no cilantro so she could eat it, but I absolutely loved it! I can't wait to try variations! Oh we didn't slice the avocado we mashed it. It just didn't want to come out of the skin but it was still good. Oh and sorry about the pictures this time. My camera just wouldn't work so i had to use my phone. Sorry guys! I hope you try this and please post pictures and leave comments! 

Lil' Char

Oct. 2nd/ Broccoli Mac and Cheese!

Alright, today is October 2nd and I have had successful day of being a vegetarian. After much thought I have decided to be a Lacto- Ovo Vegetarian, which means that I can eat dairy and eggs. When i was thinking about it what vegetarian form I should be a lot of questions popped in my head and then i thought about what would be easiest and how would I be able to succeed. Although I don't drink milk I still consume a lot of cheese so I didn't think i could give that up and the same goes for eggs. Plus eggs have protein and we all know that us humans need protein! Anyway, today's recipe is broccoli mac and cheese! Although I found this recipe on my favorite website... Pinterest. It was posted by a wonderful lady. Her blog is called Budget Bytes and has a lot of cool things on it! Tomorrow I have another recipe picked out from her blog!

Broccoli Mac and Cheese!

Ingredients-
8 oz pasta
1 large crown broccoli
1/2 med. onion
3 TBSP butter
3 TBSP flour
2 1/2 cups milk
8 oz (2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated parm. Cheese
Dash of hot sauce
salt and pepper to taste

Directions-
 

1. Get a large pot of salted water on to boil. Rinse the broccoli well and cut it into small florets.
2. The pasta and broccoli will be cooked in the same pot to save on dishes and time. When the water comes to a full boil, add the pasta. Set a timer for 8 minutes then add the broccoli. Cook the pasta and broccoli for two minutes more and then pour everything into a colander to drain. Set them aside until ready to add to the cheese sauce.
3. While the pasta and broccoli are doing their thing, you can begin the cheese sauce. Finely dice the onion and cook with butter over medium heat until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the flour to the butter and onion. The flour and butter will form a paste like mixture (roux). Using a whisk, stir and cook the roux for 1-2 minutes more taking care not to let it scorch. This slightly cooks the flour preventing the cheese sauce from having an overly flour or paste like flavor.
5. Add the milk and whisk well to dissolve all of the flour clumps. Add freshly cracked black pepper at this point. Bring the mixture up to a simmer (you may need to raise the heat just slightly). When the sauce reaches a simmer, it will begin to thicken. When it is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, it’s time to add the cheese.
6. Turn the burner off and whisk in the shredded cheese (and parmesan if using) until it is fully melted in. Give the cheese sauce a taste and add salt, pepper and hot sauce to taste.
7. Once you have the cheese sauce seasoned to your liking, stir in the cooked and drained pasta and broccoli. 

Sorry about the pictures guys... I kind of forgot until last minute to take pictures! After I made this I ate about 2 bowls of it! Then I needed a nap I was so full! haha! I didn't think I would like it as much as I did and I'm glad my roommate was home to eat some of it as well! I do have left overs but I'm a little worried about reheating it. I'm afraid that the cheese sauce might curdle.  I guess that is something I have to try!

Today I also bought some vegetarian products. I've had Boca before and really liked it! I highly recommend getting Boca burgers if you are trying this. They are easy to make and taste good! As for Morning Sat I really have only had their "Chicken" nuggets which are very good. I'll tell you guys how these burgers are! As always feel free to try everything and please if you do take pictures and post!

Well thats all for now,
Lil' Char

National Vegetarian Awareness Month!

Today is October 1st and its national vegetarian awareness month! So in honor of all the vegetarians out there I an pledging a month of meat free life! I think this is a good idea and kind of fun! If you really think about it, the idea of vegetarianism isn't much different then actually eating. What I mean is, vegetarians eat veggies and non animal products. Have you ever had a day where you just wanted something easy and go with a salad. Well its that simple. Today, for dinner I had a grilled cheese with avocado! Tomorrow I'll probably have pasta with some sort of sauce. You just have to be creative! So I say give it a try! Try for a day or a week or all 31 days! Take the pledge and try it for a month. If you don't like it then at least you tried it!

  this month I might end up posting more than just on Mondays. Please feel free to send me recipes to try and comments on anything and everything! Talk to you guys soon!
Lil' Char!

Crepes Day!

Today is crepes day!!! I don't know why I had a craving for some super good crepes but I decided to make them and a lot of them!!!! The first ones were feta and spinach, then there is the strawberry and blueberry ones, then apples and cheddar cheese, then strawberries and nutella, then just nutella. I told you I made a ton of them!!! its crazy I know and I didn't even eat them all! I just took a few bites then threw them in a Tupperware and ate them later.

 I had problems finding a recipe that I really liked until I saw this youtube video. The guy who posted the video was awesome. I probably watched the video about like 100 times. haha. I know its a little weird but I just thought it was good and I had to try it. when it actually came down to making the recipe I used the same measurements that he said. I'll post the video so everyone can enjoy it as much as I did!

Chef Jon from foodwishes is amazing!

 All of the crepes I made turned out amazingly! My friends and parents loved them and so did I! If i could make them super fast i would before work, but sadly it takes a few try to get the perfect crepe! Don't worry if you burn a few or don't get them to flip. I had a few problems myself. I think it took me about 8 or 9 tries before I got them just right! I basically almost made my mom late for work because I wanted to make her one for lunch and I just couldn't get it. but I made her wait and she ended up really liking it and once I got the hang of it I was whipping them out left and right and I know that you guys can do the same! Sorry I didn't actually post the recipe. I think the video says it all! Oh and you should watch more of Chef Jon's videos! He's amazing!

Herbed Pearl CousCous

Hey Guys,
Today i have a fun couscous recipe. I found it on pinterest. I don't actually know who was the original person to post this but I did find a lady named Aubery S. of a website called kitchen ingredient. Okay anyway to get on with the goods!

This recipe was easy and I enjoyed it a lot. I didn't actually make it with anything. It seemed like it would be a good meal but was more of a side. I still enjoyed it! After working with couscous through my work I just wanted to make it at home so I looked up a recipe for it and found this one. Its easy and fast! I think it took me maybe 10 minutes!

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
1 cup uncooked couscous
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons low fat chicken broth
A dash of salt
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
1 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme



Directions

In a small saucepan over high heat add the oil. Add shallots and cook for 2 minutes or until tender.Stir in couscous and stir for 1 minute. Add broth and salt. Be careful to not burn the couscous. heat until boiling then remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and add the fresh herbs! Enjoy! The first time I made this I burnt the couscous... I wasn't watching it so make sure to watch it!!! When I made it the second time I decided to add a yellow onion instead of the shallots just to add a little bit more flavor. I think it tasted better and added a little bit of texture. Please post pictures if you decide to try this!

Hey Guys!

Hey Guys,
My name is Lil' Char and I love food... that is why I have decided to start a blog. I like to believe I am adventurous in what I cook but sometime I enjoy the same few comfort foods. All the recipes I find i will tell you the source and give you the recipe. I don't want to step on any one's toes so to be on the safe side I will always mention them.   I work as a cook in a hospital so I might bring that up every so often. I love the menu there so I try and recreate some of the recipes and let me tell you its a hit or fail kind of things so when I do that I'll be sure to post them even if I fail miserably. This blog is purely for fun and I don't expect everyone to like the recipes so I'm sorry if you don't! Well I think that's all to be said right now!

For now,
Lil' Char