Memorial Day Weekend is this weekend. It's the kick off to the summer here at the Jersey Shore! And with summer comes barbeques! There's nothing better than a hot, juicy burger fresh off the grill! Unless you're a vegetarian...then I guess there is something better.
At any rate, here are (2) super simple recipes for making easy, delicious burgers!
Your Signature Burger
My longest and most favorite burger recipe of all time.
Original Ranch Burgers
The most recent new burger recipe I've tried, it's quickly become a favorite.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Mayonnaise Murdered Chicken
This morning I pulled a pack of thin cut, boneless, skinless chicken breast out of the freezer and popped it into the fridge with no plan as to what I was going to do with it. As of 4:30 this afternoon I still had no idea. I dug around in the back of the fridge, looking for inspiration and found a half empty jar of mayonnaise. Beings that I really needed another jar to collect change in anyway, I decided this mayonnaise was destined to be a part of dinner. Right next to the mayonnaise was a container of Parmesan cheese that at first glace I thought was empty, but low and behold, about a 1/2 a cup of cheese remained. Yep, I knew I had to use up that Parmesan too.
And so, Mayonnaise Murdered Chicken was born. And it was good. Really good.
Here's what you need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Mayonnaise
Parmesan cheese
Garlic powder
Dried Parsley (only because the mix looked dumb without a little color, totally not necessary)
Bread crumbs ( I used Italian style Panko. I love, love, love Panko! If you're not familiar with it, it's a Japanese bread crumb that's big and crunchy. When I first started using it, they had just one kind at the grocery store. Now several brands make it in several varieties and you see it on Menus in many restaurants. Try it, you'll love it. I seldom use traditional bread crumbs anymore.)
Here's what you do:
1. Defunk your chicken breasts, rinse and pat dry. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise (I scraped what was left out of the jar, it was about a cup full), Parmesan cheese (about a 1/2 a cup), garlic powder (1 teaspoon) and parsley (a few pinches), mix well. Place bread crumbs in another bowl. Line a cookie sheet with foil and preheat your oven to 400.
2. It's Mayonnaise Murdered Chicken because you smother the chicken in the mayonnaise mix. Stick each piece in the bowl and cover it completely. Then cover it in bread crumbs and slap it down on the cookie sheet.
It'll look something like this. Bake for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken. I served it with scalloped potatoes and broccoli. Delish. :)
And so, Mayonnaise Murdered Chicken was born. And it was good. Really good.
Here's what you need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Mayonnaise
Parmesan cheese
Garlic powder
Dried Parsley (only because the mix looked dumb without a little color, totally not necessary)
Bread crumbs ( I used Italian style Panko. I love, love, love Panko! If you're not familiar with it, it's a Japanese bread crumb that's big and crunchy. When I first started using it, they had just one kind at the grocery store. Now several brands make it in several varieties and you see it on Menus in many restaurants. Try it, you'll love it. I seldom use traditional bread crumbs anymore.)
Here's what you do:
1. Defunk your chicken breasts, rinse and pat dry. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise (I scraped what was left out of the jar, it was about a cup full), Parmesan cheese (about a 1/2 a cup), garlic powder (1 teaspoon) and parsley (a few pinches), mix well. Place bread crumbs in another bowl. Line a cookie sheet with foil and preheat your oven to 400.
2. It's Mayonnaise Murdered Chicken because you smother the chicken in the mayonnaise mix. Stick each piece in the bowl and cover it completely. Then cover it in bread crumbs and slap it down on the cookie sheet.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Sun Tip Tuesday: Water Resistance (and a giveaway!)
I love being a Coppertone Water Mom! You can read about it here.
Every Tuesday, I'm sharing a "Sun Tip" to help you help your families stay protected from the sun.
Be sure that you choose a sunscreen that is water resistant. Due to new FDA regulations manufacturer's can no longer claim a sunscreen is "waterproof", but water resistant, and the bottle must clearly state how long it will remain water resistant once applied. Of course, it's always a good idea to reapply your sunscreen after you've been swimming or have toweled off.
I have a bottle of New Coppertone Wet n' Clear Sunscreen Continuous Spray with your name on it! Simply leave a comment on this post to be entered to win. It sprays clear on wet skin, has a broad spectrum SPF of 45+ and it water resistant up to 80 minutes.
Contest ends next Tuesday, May 29th at noon EST.
Don't forget about the Little Miss Coppertone Contest...and be sure like Coppertone on Facebook as well!!!
"As a member of the Coppertone® Water MOMS group, I receive product samples and promotional items to share and use as I see fit. No monetary compensation has taken place and any opinions expressed by me are honest and reflect my actual experience."
Monday, May 21, 2012
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Honey Bunches of Oats - Make Your Day Bunches Better!
Honey Bunches of Oats tastes so good that it's easy to forget why it's good for you too:
- 10 grams of whole grain (wheat, oat, corn and rice) per serving
- Just 6 grams of sugar per serving (Honey Nut Cheerios has 9 grams!)
- Heart Healthy! 0g Trans Fat, 0g Saturated Fat, 0mg Cholesterol
- Honey Bunches of Oats Honey Roasted
- ...with Almonds
- ...with Real Strawberries
- ...with Cinnamon Bunches
- ...with Pecan Bunches
- ...with Vanilla Bunches
- ...Raisin Medley
- ...Fruit Blends with Peaches and Raspberries
- ...Fruit Blends with Bananas and Blueberries
- ...Honey Roasted Just Bunches!
What's your favorite Honey Bunches of Oats flavor? Mine is a toss up between the classic Honey Roasted and Pecan Bunches. I'm thrilled to be able to offer you the opportunity to score a FREE box of any Honey Bunches of Oats Cereal!
There's 3 ways to enter:
- Like Honey Bunches of Oats on Facebook and leave a comment on this post letting me know you did so.
- Post on the Honey Bunches of Oats Facebook Page and mention my blog. "Hoping to win a coupon for a free box of Honey Bunches of Oats from http://pass-the-prozac.blogspot.com/ !" Then leave a comment on this post to let me know you did so.
- Follow my blog via Google Friend Connect or subscribe to my feed.
Please be sure to include your email address so I can get in touch with you if you're the winner. You'll win a coupon for a FREE (up to $4.49) 13 oz. or larger box of any Honey Bunches of Oats Cereal.
Winner will be selected at random and announced on Tuesday, May 29th at noon est.
**In full disclosure, I received a box of Honey Bunches of Oats - Honey Roasted from Post Cereal in exchange for a post about their delicious cereal. My participation in voluntary and, as always, my opinions are my own.**
Friday, May 18, 2012
Cape May County Moms *Mom's Night Out* TONIGHT
In addition to writing here at Pass The Prozac, I also write for Cape May County Moms, a local site for local moms by local moms. If you're a Cape May County Mom yourself, you should check out our page and like us on Facebook.
We're having a Mom's Night Out at Kidz Creations in Ocean City (811 Asbury Ave.) TONIGHT, May 18th at 7PM and we'd love for you to join us!
Kidz Creations is a walk-in arts and crafts studio and store for kids. Tonight, however, there's no kids allowed! :) Just us Moms! We'll be getting our craft on and painting wine glasses!
There will also be some wine for drinking, some snacks for nibbling, swag bags and raffle prizes!
This is a super small event, tickets are available online only and will not be sold at the door!
You can get all the details as well as the link to purchase your ticket here.
We're having a Mom's Night Out at Kidz Creations in Ocean City (811 Asbury Ave.) TONIGHT, May 18th at 7PM and we'd love for you to join us!
Kidz Creations is a walk-in arts and crafts studio and store for kids. Tonight, however, there's no kids allowed! :) Just us Moms! We'll be getting our craft on and painting wine glasses!
This is a super small event, tickets are available online only and will not be sold at the door!
You can get all the details as well as the link to purchase your ticket here.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
enough. is. enough.
"What a draaaag it is", croons Mick Jagger, "getting oooold..."
It's been in my head for a week. You see, today is my birthday. My 29th birthday. There's something about 29 that sounds so much older than 28 and not just because it's another year closer (okay, just one year away) to the big 3-0. 26 didn't feel so bad. 27 felt really bad. 28 was okay. 29 feels bad. Really bad. Maybe it's an odd number thing?
I don't dare post my distaste for 29 as a Facebook status. Everyone over the age of 29 will immediately jump down my throat with their unwanted comments. As silly as it may sound, to be depressed over turning 29, it's the way I feel and I'm entitled to it. So there.
Most women have a problem with aging for two reasons. The first is sagging breasts, jiggly underarms or that hair you discover on a fluke. That hair you can't believe was as long as it was and growing on your face. You know that hair.
The second reason is the mile high pile of expectations that teeters on the tops of our shoulders. We tell ourselves, "By this point in time in my life, I should have done, this, this and this. Oh and that." Been married, gotten pregnant, been promoted, bought a house, been to Aruba, insert your unmet expectation of yourself here.
It's unmet expectations that are making 29 hard for me.
The thought of them is destroying my happiness. My own self-worth. My contentment. My self-respect.
Maybe I need to let go of some of those expectations. Maybe I need to work harder towards some of them. Maybe I need to meet myself in the middle.
Maybe I need to let go of some of those expectations. Maybe I need to work harder towards some of them. Maybe I need to meet myself in the middle.
We get but "one wild and precious life" (Mary Oliver). I want mine to be full. I want it to be rewarding. I want it to be enough. I want to feel like I'm enough.
My whole life I've never felt like I was. I wasn't the son my father wanted, I couldn't make my Mom happy when she was sad, I couldn't grasp the concept of long division and so many other things. I never felt smart enough, or strong enough, or good enough, the way I was.
I thought I'd be the girl to grow up and change the world. As it turns out, I can't even change myself. Or the way I think. Or how I react.
I think my life will really start if I can just believe that I'm enough. When I know it for sure, deep down in my bones, in my belly, in my heart - when I know that I AM ENOUGH - then maybe I can embrace the passing years, let go, be unafraid - maybe then I can celebrate myself.
The Journey by Mary Oliver
One day you finally knew
what you had to do, and began,
though the voices around you
kept shouting
their bad advice--
though the whole house
began to tremble
and you felt the old tug
at your ankles.
"Mend my life!"
each voice cried.
But you didn't stop.
You knew what you had to do,
though the wind pried
with its stiff fingers
at the very foundations,
though their melancholy
was terrible.
It was already late
enough, and a wild night,
and the road full of fallen
branches and stones.
But little by little,
as you left their voices behind,
the stars began to burn
through the sheets of clouds,
and there was a new voice
which you slowly
recognized as your own,
that kept you company
as you strode deeper and deeper
into the world,
determined to do
the only thing you could do--
determined to save
the only life you could save.
the only life you could save.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Shepherd's Pie (Made Easy)
Shepherd's Pie is one of my favorite dishes to make when I've got ground beef that I don't know what to do with (it's also one of my oldest son's favorite dinners). It's super easy to throw together and you probably have everything you need already on hand. My Irish ancestors are probably rolling over in their graves, but here's my recipe for Shepherd's Pie Made Easy...
Here's what you need:
1 1/2 - 2 lbs. of lean ground beef
1 onion (white or yellow), diced
1 can of beef broth (which is about a cup and a half)
2-3 tablespoons of minced garlic (from a jar of course, who has time to mince garlic themselves?)
1 bag of frozen peas, carrots & corn (about 2 cups)
1 box instant mashed potatoes (this is the main reason my ancestors are ashamed)
Salt & pepper
2 tablespoons butter
1 egg
Here's what you do:
1. Cook ground beef (seasoned with salt & pepper) in a skillet over medium-high heat. Just before the meat is fully browned, add onions and garlic and continue to cook until the meat is done. If you're not using lean ground beef or if you are and there's still excess grease, drain the meat, onion and garlic mixture before continuing. Return ground beef, onions and garlic to skillet and add beef broth. 1 can of beef broth is about 1 1/2 cups. If you're using 2 lbs. of meat, you'll want to use the whole can. If you're using less meat, you'll want to use less broth. Some of it will cook off, but not much. You want enough broth so that the meat is wet, but not drowning. Something like this:
2. After you've added the beef broth, add frozen vegetables. Bring to a boil. It looks a little prettier after you add the veggies. :)
You can use whatever frozen vegetables you have. Traditionally it's peas, corn and carrots. I use a mixed vegetable medley that includes those as well as green beans. Transfer meat mixture from skillet to a 13 x 9 baking dish. I use a slotted spoon so as to not have too much broth. Spread evenly in pan. You can add a little extra juice (broth) if you feel like it needs it.
3. Next prepare the instant mashed potatoes as per the directions on the box. I use these:
You'll need both pouches. These loaded mashed potatoes give your Shepherd's Pie a little extra flavor kick. When the potatoes are finished, let them sit for 5 minutes to help them stiffen up a bit. Then add an egg, beaten, to them and stir well. The egg will help stiffen the potatoes while it bakes.
Spread the mashed potatoes in the baking dish on top of the ground beef. I use a fork to make a design of sorts so it looks nicer than just mashed potatoes plopped on top of meat. Break 2 tablespoons of butter into tiny chunks and sprinkle sporadically on top.
4. Place baking dish in the oven, preheated to 400 degrees, for 30-35 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
The finished product:
No need for a side, your meat, starch and vegetables are all in one.
Here's what you need:
1 1/2 - 2 lbs. of lean ground beef
1 onion (white or yellow), diced
1 can of beef broth (which is about a cup and a half)
2-3 tablespoons of minced garlic (from a jar of course, who has time to mince garlic themselves?)
1 bag of frozen peas, carrots & corn (about 2 cups)
1 box instant mashed potatoes (this is the main reason my ancestors are ashamed)
Salt & pepper
2 tablespoons butter
1 egg
Here's what you do:
1. Cook ground beef (seasoned with salt & pepper) in a skillet over medium-high heat. Just before the meat is fully browned, add onions and garlic and continue to cook until the meat is done. If you're not using lean ground beef or if you are and there's still excess grease, drain the meat, onion and garlic mixture before continuing. Return ground beef, onions and garlic to skillet and add beef broth. 1 can of beef broth is about 1 1/2 cups. If you're using 2 lbs. of meat, you'll want to use the whole can. If you're using less meat, you'll want to use less broth. Some of it will cook off, but not much. You want enough broth so that the meat is wet, but not drowning. Something like this:
2. After you've added the beef broth, add frozen vegetables. Bring to a boil. It looks a little prettier after you add the veggies. :)
You can use whatever frozen vegetables you have. Traditionally it's peas, corn and carrots. I use a mixed vegetable medley that includes those as well as green beans. Transfer meat mixture from skillet to a 13 x 9 baking dish. I use a slotted spoon so as to not have too much broth. Spread evenly in pan. You can add a little extra juice (broth) if you feel like it needs it.
3. Next prepare the instant mashed potatoes as per the directions on the box. I use these:
Spread the mashed potatoes in the baking dish on top of the ground beef. I use a fork to make a design of sorts so it looks nicer than just mashed potatoes plopped on top of meat. Break 2 tablespoons of butter into tiny chunks and sprinkle sporadically on top.
4. Place baking dish in the oven, preheated to 400 degrees, for 30-35 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
The finished product:
No need for a side, your meat, starch and vegetables are all in one.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Sun Tip Tuesday: 15 Before
We've all done it. You've been sitting at the park, in the backyard or anywhere outdoors for half an hour and suddenly it occurs to you that the kids need sunscreen on. The time to apply sunscreen is BEFORE you're going to be exposed to the sun, 15 minutes before to be exact.
Check back next Tuesday for another Sun Tip and a chance to win a little somethin'- somethin'! :)
Miss last weeks tip? Here it is.
"As a member of the Coppertone® Water MOMS group, I receive product samples and promotional items to share and use as I see fit. No monetary compensation has taken place and any opinions expressed by me are honest and reflect my actual experience."
Monday, May 14, 2012
Little Miss Coppertone Contest
No purchase necessary. The deadline to submit is 6/22/12.
Disclosure: I was entered for a chance to win a gift card in exchange for this post. No monetary exchange took place.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Papa, papa...PAPARAZZI!!! (Accessories for just $5.50!)
My long-time friend, Kaleena, has started a new business venture that I'm excited to share with you. Kaleena has signed up as a Paparazzi Jewelry & Accessories Independent Consultant. Paparazzi is a line of fun, trendy, stylish and amazingly affordable jewelry and accessories that are each priced at just $5.50.
You can join Kaleena's Facebook Group here and like her Facebook Fan page here to get a look at some of the line. If you're local, I'm having a Paparazzi Open House Party on Saturday, May 26th from 12:30 - 3:30, feel free to stop on by!
If you're interesting in attending my party, having a party of your own or learning more about the opportunity to join Paparazzi, please leave a comment (be sure to include your email, which will remain private) and I'll put you in touch in with Kaleena.
Necklaces, necklace and earring sets, bracelets, earrings, rings, headbands...you name it, Paparazzi has it! In season, in style...and all for just $5.50 (including tax)!
You can join Kaleena's Facebook Group here and like her Facebook Fan page here to get a look at some of the line. If you're local, I'm having a Paparazzi Open House Party on Saturday, May 26th from 12:30 - 3:30, feel free to stop on by!
If you're interesting in attending my party, having a party of your own or learning more about the opportunity to join Paparazzi, please leave a comment (be sure to include your email, which will remain private) and I'll put you in touch in with Kaleena.
Necklaces, necklace and earring sets, bracelets, earrings, rings, headbands...you name it, Paparazzi has it! In season, in style...and all for just $5.50 (including tax)!
Friday, May 11, 2012
Homemade Oven-Fried Pertater Chips
Really, really yummy and really, really easy to make, I give you Homemade Oven-Fried Pertater Chips....
Here's what you need:
(4) Baking (Russet) Potatoes, washed, peeled and sliced as thin as you can get them
1/2 stick of butter, melted
Course salt to taste
Here's what you do:
1. Wash potatoes. Peel potatoes. Slice potatoes as thin as you can. A mandoline would be realy helpful for this. I don't have one. Pat the potatoes dry between paper towels. Butter a cookie sheet (this is in addition to the 1/2 stick) or use non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on the cookie sheet. With 4 decent sized potatoes you'll probably have enough for two batches.
2. Brush the potatoes with melted butter. Bake them in a preheated oven at 500 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Sprinkle them with course salt (I use sea salt).
Before:
After:
They're not exactly real potato chips hence the "pertater", but they're definitely just as addicting!
Here's what you need:
(4) Baking (Russet) Potatoes, washed, peeled and sliced as thin as you can get them
1/2 stick of butter, melted
Course salt to taste
Here's what you do:
1. Wash potatoes. Peel potatoes. Slice potatoes as thin as you can. A mandoline would be realy helpful for this. I don't have one. Pat the potatoes dry between paper towels. Butter a cookie sheet (this is in addition to the 1/2 stick) or use non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on the cookie sheet. With 4 decent sized potatoes you'll probably have enough for two batches.
2. Brush the potatoes with melted butter. Bake them in a preheated oven at 500 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Sprinkle them with course salt (I use sea salt).
Before:
After:
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Purex Promotions
I'm proud to be a Purex Insider!
Besides the fact that their products rock, my favorite thing about Purex is how appreciative they are of their loyal consumers. One of the ways they show it is through awesome contests and promotions like these, be sure to enter for your chance to win!!!
Purex Hawaiian Tropical Splash Giveaway - The Grand Prize is a 3-night stay on the beautiful beachfront hotel – Outrigger Reef on the Beach, in Waikiki. The Grand Prize winner will also receive a 2 year supply of Tropical Splash Purex Crystals! There will also be 500 2nd place winners that each receive a coupon for a free bottle of Purex Crystals!
25 Bottles of Purex Crystals for 25 Days Sweepstakes - 25 winners are being chosen every single day (until May 29th) and are each receiving a coupon for a free bottle of Purex Crystals!
GOOD LUCK! :)
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
How To Not Raise A Big, Spoiled Rotten Brat
How To Not Raise A Big, Spoiled Rotten Brat
(Or Die Trying Not To)
No one likes saying no to their kids. We want our kids to be happy, we want them to have what they want, we want to give them the very best. But being a "Yes Mom" can backfire on you. Big time. Little spoiled rotten people grow up to be big spoiled rotten people and we know this because we all know adults who have a sense of entitlement and are not self-sufficient. Instead of raising a child who is confident, successful, compassionate and hard-working, you'll end up with one of "those people" who only remain on your facebook friends list because of their ridiculous, unintentionally hilarious status updates.
My little "brats"
Here are some tips on how to not raise a big, spoiled rotten brat...or die trying not to...
1. Just Say NO!
Always giving your child what they want or giving into what they want, gives your child a really poor image about life...that you always get what you want, no matter what, just because it's what you want. Unfortunately, we all know that's not the case. Your child isn't learning what it is to be disappointed or how to handle that feeling and if you think about disappointment (and the way you respond to it) is a huge part of life. When you do say no, mean it and don't cave. Giving into tantrums happens to us all once in a while. When it happens routinely you're teaching your child that all they need to do is cry and whine to get what they want. If that were true I'd have everything my heart desires as I'm really good at making a lot of noise.
2. Reward The Right Way
Many parents think they are rewarding their children when what they're really doing in bribing them (don't get me wrong--bribery does have a role in parenting--but certainly not on a daily basis!). If you say, "If you do this, I will give you this.", that's not a reward system, that's bribery. A reward should be something special for something good that was done that didn't require prompting, prodding and promising.
3. Newton's 3rd Law: "For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction."
Kids don't realize that everything they do, good or bad, has a consequence and that what they do, good or bad, effects other people. Set clear rules for your child regarding the behavior you expect them to exhibit and have consequences when they don't meet your expectations. There has to be discipline. Try to always reinforce good behavior with praise. It's easy to focus on the negative. Sometimes kids will choose negative attention over no attention at all. Emphasize the positive!
4. All kids, even as young as 2, are capable of, and should be expected to do, chores. Teach your child that we all have responsibilities in life and that each member of the family needs to contribute to taking care of the house and each other. Praise your child for a job well done. It will make them feel good and it will make them feel important...and in the end, that's what everyone wants, to feel important.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Coppertone Water Mom's Sun Tip Tuesday: Broad Spectrum
I'm really excited to be a Coppertone Water Mom!
Part of my job as a Coppertone Water Mom is to help other Moms learn to safely embrace the sun and understand the importance of sun care protection. I'll be sharing a weekly "sun tip" every here on my blog every Tuesday.
This week's Sun Tip is...
Choosing the best sunscreen for your family is a little more involved than simply grabbing the least expensive option on the shelf. New FDA rules mandate that manufacturer's must state whether a sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays (many don't, fyi). You want a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 50 and one that is labeled "broad spectrum", meaning it protects against both types of rays.
"As a member of the Coppertone® Water MOMS group, I receive product samples and promotional items to share and use as I see fit. No monetary compensation has taken place and any opinions expressed by me are honest and reflect my actual experience."
Monday, May 7, 2012
Sites I Heart
I'm often asked about what sites I recommend for this or that. Here's a list, in no particular order, of sites I love. Sites I find fun, useful and informative as a mama.
*I love learning of great sites, if you have a site you love that you think I'd love too, please leave a comment and share it with my readers and I.*
Family Fun
Fact Monster
Baby Center
Bible Gateway
National Geographic Kids
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
The Idea Box
American Sign Language
Moms Club
Smithsonian For Students
No Time For Flash Cards
Parentables
Show Kids The Fun
Cafe Mom
The Natural Child Project
5 Minutes For Mom
ABC Mouse
Savvy Source
Productive Parenting
Craft Cafe
PBS Kids
Starfall
*I love learning of great sites, if you have a site you love that you think I'd love too, please leave a comment and share it with my readers and I.*
Family Fun
Fact Monster
Baby Center
Bible Gateway
National Geographic Kids
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
The Idea Box
American Sign Language
Moms Club
Smithsonian For Students
No Time For Flash Cards
Parentables
Show Kids The Fun
Cafe Mom
The Natural Child Project
5 Minutes For Mom
ABC Mouse
Savvy Source
Productive Parenting
Craft Cafe
PBS Kids
Starfall
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Tuity Fruity Bananas
We struggle with breakfast at our house. The boys want toast every. single. day. I'm about to have a "Mommy Moment" with you, that moment where you bare your farfromperfect mommy soul to another mother, a mother you know (or at least hope) will understand.
There have been days, several of them if I'm being honest, where I've sent Sean off to school with as many as 6 pieces of toast in his belly. That's so much bread. Too, too much bread. Plus bread at lunch most days and almost always a starch with dinner. Somethings got to give with the damn toast.
My kids are hard to feed. In the morning anyway.
They both despise eggs, which throws a lot of traditional breakfast options out the window. Sean has always hated eggs. Sine the first time I tried to feed him scrambled eggs when he was just a little guy. He won't even eat homemade french toast because he knows the bread is dipped in egg. Daniel previously LOVED eggs, like really loved them...which was super exciting given that my first born wanted nothing to do with them. About a year ago, he suddenly decided he would no longer eat eggs under any circumstances. And that's been that.
Pancakes, waffles, french toast and anything else that would require the accompaniment of syrup is out on school days as we get our baths/showers in the evening before bed and my kids require soaking and scrubbing after consuming syrup.
They eat cereal, but only dry cereal in a bowl - no milk - and they only eat specific parts of different cereal. Only the marshmallows in Lucky Charms, only the certain colored squares in a box of Chex.
You get the idea. It's rough.
I've been trying to come up with new and healthier breakfast options for them and this one has been a big hit.
It makes a great breakfast or after-school snack. It's fast, it's fun, it's nutritious and it's so easy that your kids can do it themselves.
Step 1: Pour cereal (we've been working with a big bag of imitation Fruity Pebbles) into a small plastic bag and seal. Let your child use their hands to crush up the cereal. Pour contents of bag onto a plate or in a bowl.
You can use any type of cereal you like.
Step 2: Have your child peel a banana and use a butter knife to cut it up into chunks. Dip banana chunks into cereal and get your breakfast on. You have the goodness and nutrition of a banana and the hint of sugary cereal deliciousness.
There have been days, several of them if I'm being honest, where I've sent Sean off to school with as many as 6 pieces of toast in his belly. That's so much bread. Too, too much bread. Plus bread at lunch most days and almost always a starch with dinner. Somethings got to give with the damn toast.
My kids are hard to feed. In the morning anyway.
They both despise eggs, which throws a lot of traditional breakfast options out the window. Sean has always hated eggs. Sine the first time I tried to feed him scrambled eggs when he was just a little guy. He won't even eat homemade french toast because he knows the bread is dipped in egg. Daniel previously LOVED eggs, like really loved them...which was super exciting given that my first born wanted nothing to do with them. About a year ago, he suddenly decided he would no longer eat eggs under any circumstances. And that's been that.
Pancakes, waffles, french toast and anything else that would require the accompaniment of syrup is out on school days as we get our baths/showers in the evening before bed and my kids require soaking and scrubbing after consuming syrup.
They eat cereal, but only dry cereal in a bowl - no milk - and they only eat specific parts of different cereal. Only the marshmallows in Lucky Charms, only the certain colored squares in a box of Chex.
You get the idea. It's rough.
I've been trying to come up with new and healthier breakfast options for them and this one has been a big hit.
It makes a great breakfast or after-school snack. It's fast, it's fun, it's nutritious and it's so easy that your kids can do it themselves.
Step 1: Pour cereal (we've been working with a big bag of imitation Fruity Pebbles) into a small plastic bag and seal. Let your child use their hands to crush up the cereal. Pour contents of bag onto a plate or in a bowl.
You can use any type of cereal you like.
Step 2: Have your child peel a banana and use a butter knife to cut it up into chunks. Dip banana chunks into cereal and get your breakfast on. You have the goodness and nutrition of a banana and the hint of sugary cereal deliciousness.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
My Taco Noodle Casserole Recipe
Yesterday I shared my recipe for how to make your own taco seasoning. I use taco seasoning in my kitchen quite often and for way more than just plain old tacos. This recipe is one of my favorite uses for taco seasoning, it's a family favorite for sure.
TACO NOODLE CASSEROLE
Here's what you need:
1 package of egg noodles
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 cup milk
2-3 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning OR1 packet taco seasoning mix
Shredded Mexican cheese blend
Corn chips (like Tostito's), crushed up
Here's what you do:
1) Cook noodles to al dente, whatever the package says, usually 7 or 8 minutes. Drain, dump in large bowl.
2) While you're waiting for the water to boil, season ground beef with salt and pepper and brown, add onion a few minutes before beef is done. Drain excess grease, return to frying pan.
3) Add taco seasoning, tomato sauce and milk to ground beef and onion, stir, bring to a boil and cook 2 minutes.
4) Pour meat mixture into bowl with noodles and mix it all up. Pour a layer of noodles/meat into a casserole dish sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, spread evenly, top with cheese. Spread remaining noodles/meat into casserole and top with more cheese. You can never have enough cheese, right? Right.
5) Put crushed up corn chips all over the top and bake uncovered for 20 -30 minutes at 350.
Serve with salad or corn. You can use additional taco seasoning to give it a stronger taco flavor. I use a little less than I might otherwise like so doesn't have too much bite for the kids.
TACO NOODLE CASSEROLE
Here's what you need:
1 package of egg noodles
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 cup milk
2-3 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning OR1 packet taco seasoning mix
Shredded Mexican cheese blend
Corn chips (like Tostito's), crushed up
Here's what you do:
1) Cook noodles to al dente, whatever the package says, usually 7 or 8 minutes. Drain, dump in large bowl.
2) While you're waiting for the water to boil, season ground beef with salt and pepper and brown, add onion a few minutes before beef is done. Drain excess grease, return to frying pan.
3) Add taco seasoning, tomato sauce and milk to ground beef and onion, stir, bring to a boil and cook 2 minutes.
4) Pour meat mixture into bowl with noodles and mix it all up. Pour a layer of noodles/meat into a casserole dish sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, spread evenly, top with cheese. Spread remaining noodles/meat into casserole and top with more cheese. You can never have enough cheese, right? Right.
5) Put crushed up corn chips all over the top and bake uncovered for 20 -30 minutes at 350.
Serve with salad or corn. You can use additional taco seasoning to give it a stronger taco flavor. I use a little less than I might otherwise like so doesn't have too much bite for the kids.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Tomorrow's Cinco De Mayo! - Make Your Own: Taco Seasoning
Tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo and White Moms all over America will be making tacos for dinner because tacos are the only Mexican food we know how to make.
It doesn't get much easier than browning ground meat in a pan, draining the grease from the pan, opening a packet of taco seasoning mix, sprinkling it on the meat, adding water and heating it up.
What's in that taco seasoning mix? It's just spices and herbs, right? Wrong. Here is the list of ingredients from a packet of Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix:
*Maltodextrin
Salt
Chili Pepper
Onion Powder
**Spice
*Monosodium Glutamate
Corn Starch
Yellow Corn Flour
Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil
*Silicone Dioxide (anticaking agent)
**Natural Flavor
*Ethoxyquin (preservative)
*=Say what?
**=Can you be more specific?
Are you ready to make your own taco seasoning and never spend $1.00 on one of those sodium stocked, preservative filled packets again?
Here's what you need (and you probably already have all of it in your kitchen):
4 Tablespoons Chili Powder
2 Tablespoons Cumin
2 Tablespoons Paprika
2 TBS. Garlic Powder
1 TBS. Onion Powder
2 TBS. Dried Minced Onions
1/2 TBS. Cayenne (red) Pepper
1 teaspoon Oregano or Cilantro
1 teaspoon Sugar
1 teaspoon Salt
Here's what you do:
Dump all ingredients into a jar. Put lid on jar. Shake vigorously. Voila, homemade taco seasoning mix. Store in an airtight container (I use an empty spice bottle). Add 2-3 tablespoons of seasoning per 1 pound of ground meat and 3/4 cup of water.
It doesn't get much easier than browning ground meat in a pan, draining the grease from the pan, opening a packet of taco seasoning mix, sprinkling it on the meat, adding water and heating it up.
What's in that taco seasoning mix? It's just spices and herbs, right? Wrong. Here is the list of ingredients from a packet of Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix:
*Maltodextrin
Salt
Chili Pepper
Onion Powder
**Spice
*Monosodium Glutamate
Corn Starch
Yellow Corn Flour
Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil
*Silicone Dioxide (anticaking agent)
**Natural Flavor
*Ethoxyquin (preservative)
*=Say what?
**=Can you be more specific?
Are you ready to make your own taco seasoning and never spend $1.00 on one of those sodium stocked, preservative filled packets again?
Here's what you need (and you probably already have all of it in your kitchen):
4 Tablespoons Chili Powder
2 Tablespoons Cumin
2 Tablespoons Paprika
2 TBS. Garlic Powder
1 TBS. Onion Powder
2 TBS. Dried Minced Onions
1/2 TBS. Cayenne (red) Pepper
1 teaspoon Oregano or Cilantro
1 teaspoon Sugar
1 teaspoon Salt
Here's what you do:
Dump all ingredients into a jar. Put lid on jar. Shake vigorously. Voila, homemade taco seasoning mix. Store in an airtight container (I use an empty spice bottle). Add 2-3 tablespoons of seasoning per 1 pound of ground meat and 3/4 cup of water.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Shroom Fly Pie
Last night for dinner, we had Mushroom Pie, first cousin to a quiche. If you're anti-shroom, this recipe is obviously not for you...but if you are a fungi fan, read on...
Here's what you need:
(1) ready-made pie crust shell, if you wanted to be fancy you could make your own
2 tablespoons butter
1 lb. fresh mushrooms, any variety you like, sliced
(1) onion, I used a white onion because that's what I had, sliced (If you're not a fan of onions, you could leave them out...but I'd venture to say that if you don't like onions, you probably don't like mushrooms either.) :P
2 tablespoons minced garlic
Salt & pepper, to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup milk
1/3 sour cream
2 eggs
A pinch or two of nutmeg
A handful of fresh chopped parsley
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
Here's what you do:
1. Follow the package directions to bake your pie shell. This generally involves letting the dough come down to room temperature, laying it in a pie dish, using your fingers to make a pretty scalloped edge and baking it for 10 minutes or so.
2. Melt butter in a large frying pan, add mushrooms and onions, stir to coat them with butter, Kick the heat up and stir constantly. You will not believe the amount of moisture the mushrooms will release. You'll need to cook it off and let most of it evaporate, it'll take about 10 minutes. Lower the heat back down to medium and add garlic, stir it around for a few minutes, then kill the heat.
Here's what you need:
(1) ready-made pie crust shell, if you wanted to be fancy you could make your own
2 tablespoons butter
1 lb. fresh mushrooms, any variety you like, sliced
(1) onion, I used a white onion because that's what I had, sliced (If you're not a fan of onions, you could leave them out...but I'd venture to say that if you don't like onions, you probably don't like mushrooms either.) :P
2 tablespoons minced garlic
Salt & pepper, to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup milk
1/3 sour cream
2 eggs
A pinch or two of nutmeg
A handful of fresh chopped parsley
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
Here's what you do:
1. Follow the package directions to bake your pie shell. This generally involves letting the dough come down to room temperature, laying it in a pie dish, using your fingers to make a pretty scalloped edge and baking it for 10 minutes or so.
2. Melt butter in a large frying pan, add mushrooms and onions, stir to coat them with butter, Kick the heat up and stir constantly. You will not believe the amount of moisture the mushrooms will release. You'll need to cook it off and let most of it evaporate, it'll take about 10 minutes. Lower the heat back down to medium and add garlic, stir it around for a few minutes, then kill the heat.
Mushrooms, onions and garlic lovin' on each other
3. Spread the mushroom mix into the bottom of the pie crust. Beat eggs, sour cream, milk and cream together in a bowl. Add salt, pepper and nutmeg to your liking...a little nutmeg goes a long way. Stir in cheese and parsley. Pour the cheese and cream mixture over top of the mushroom mixture.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes at 400. Remove from oven and allow to cool and set for 10 minutes before serving.
This is a delicious meatless meal that's great for breakfast, brunch or dinner.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Crack For A Snack
Warning: Crack is dangerously delicious.
Here's what you need:
40 saltine crackers
2 sticks of butter
1 cup of light brown sugar
8 oz. semisweet chocolate chips
I said it was good, I never said it was good for you.
Here's what you do:
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Arrange 40 saltine crackers on cookie sheet like so:
2. Put butter and brown sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat:
As it starts to melt, it will look like this (and smell like Heaven on Earth):
Bring the butter and brown sugar to a boil and then continue to boil for 5 minutes. Stir, fast and furious.
3. Pour the butter/brown sugar mixture over the crackers and do your best to cover them evenly.
Put the cookie sheet into the oven and watch it like a hawk. You want to remove it just when it starts to bubble. It will take 4 or 5 minutes.
4. Remove the cookie sheet from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips all over the top.
The chips will start to melt, use a butter knife to spread the chocolate all over the top.
5. Pop the cookie sheet into the freezer and leave it there for 20 minutes. The crackers will form one big sheet.
6. Break it into pieces and store in an airtight container. You'll think it's good the first day...you won't want to live without it the second day. Enjoy!
Here's what you need:
40 saltine crackers
2 sticks of butter
1 cup of light brown sugar
8 oz. semisweet chocolate chips
I said it was good, I never said it was good for you.
Here's what you do:
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Arrange 40 saltine crackers on cookie sheet like so:
2. Put butter and brown sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat:
As it starts to melt, it will look like this (and smell like Heaven on Earth):
Bring the butter and brown sugar to a boil and then continue to boil for 5 minutes. Stir, fast and furious.
3. Pour the butter/brown sugar mixture over the crackers and do your best to cover them evenly.
Put the cookie sheet into the oven and watch it like a hawk. You want to remove it just when it starts to bubble. It will take 4 or 5 minutes.
4. Remove the cookie sheet from the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips all over the top.
The chips will start to melt, use a butter knife to spread the chocolate all over the top.
5. Pop the cookie sheet into the freezer and leave it there for 20 minutes. The crackers will form one big sheet.
6. Break it into pieces and store in an airtight container. You'll think it's good the first day...you won't want to live without it the second day. Enjoy!
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
I'm a Coppertone Water Mom!
I'm super excited to have been selected as a Coppertone Water Mom! Part of my job as a Coppertone Water Mom is to help other Moms learn to safely embrace the sun and understand the importance of sun care protection.
I have a clear recollection of the pink bottle and the iconic Coppertone Girl (with her little dog pulling down her bathing suit bottom) from my childhood and I trust Coppertone to protect my babies from the harmful rays of the sun, just like my own mother did.
Mom and I aren't the only ones who love and trust Coppertone..Coppertone is the #1 pediatrician recommended brand for sun protection.
My Coppertone Water Moms Welcome Kit has arrived! Here's a peak at some of the goodies:
I'm looking forward to sharing some Coppertone Swag with you soon and most importantly, sharing information to give you a better "sun-derstanding" of how to protect your families. Check back every Tuesday for my quick Copppertone Water Mom's Sun Tip and be sure to "like" Coppertone on Facebook!
"As a member of the Coppertone® Water MOMS group, I receive product samples and promotional items to share and use as I see fit. No monetary compensation has taken place and any opinions expressed by me are honest and reflect my actual experience."
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