ilove2cook2
Joined: 4th January 2008
User ranking: Chef de Cuisine
About ilove2cook2
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ilove2cook2's Recipes
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Healthy English Muffin Pizzas
I love English muffin pizza but am watching my weight. Just swap a few things out and enjoy.
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Rice Wrapper Spring Rolls
My kids love eating foods from different countries. They have a passion for spring rolls, so I started making them myself, my way.
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Sweet Potato Soup
With Thanksgiving looming around the corner, I look for something new to make for dinner and try it out ahead of time - I liked this sweet potato soup. Found this one on another website. Sounds warm,…
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Amazing Stuffed Artichokes
This recipe was originally my mothers'. The family would fight over the artichokes and we loved the pasta on the side. Hope you enjoy it!
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Mmm Hummus
Creamy, delicious and good for you!
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Curious Chicken Spread
These flavors meld so well together. It is one of those dishes where people want to know, "what is that flavor?" Creamy and delicious! I added carrots because all of the kids in my family loved it and…
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3 In 1 Italian Dip
This is a recipe my niece loves and the family asks for all the time.
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Ageless Antipasto Salad
This was made at every family gathering on holidays and just plain old Sundays. It is a great start to any meal.
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Amazing Tortellini Salad
This is a light and refreshing salad that can be served as a side or main course. The balsamic vinegar gives it a sweet flavor.
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Great Greek Spinach Pie
This dish can be served as a side or mail dish by adding a salad or even soup. Crunchy on the outside and smooth and salty on the inside. Who could ask for more? You can use also puff pastry or the bisquick…
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Party Quesadillas
My entire family likes to eat these party quesadillas. Anything with melted cheese is a winner in my book!
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Fantastic Fried Rice
This recipe is very versatile. You can add whatever vegetables you like. I use the orzo pasta since some of my family members cannot eat rice for medical reasons. Serve with my Chinese Sweet and Sour…
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Chicken Ranch Spread or Dip
While getting ready to make my Curious Chicken Spread, I wanted to try something different. This is what I came up with. Hope you like it.
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My Kinda' Muffuletta
I had this when I went to Louisiana for Jazz Fest. This is my version. The gardiniera salad gives it some zing. They can be cut in quarters for a light appetizer or served with a salad for a meal.
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Plentiful Potato Soup
This potato soup is warm and hearty and covers you like a blanket on a cold day. You can lower the heat now.
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Keep Away The Vampires Cheesy Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is just garlic bread, but with cheese on top it brings it to a whole new level. This recipe will definitely keep the vampires away!
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Stuffed Zucchini Logs
These zucchini logs are packed with flavor and the kids love eating them along side their turkey legs. I think they like the name! These can also be served as a meal with a side salad.
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Roasted Nuts - Watch out for Squirrels
These nuts were in my home all winter long. A sweet and healthy snack before or after dinner or while playing Pokeno!
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Vegetable Baked Rotelli or Ziti
I make this with reduced fat cheeses so I don't feel so guilty and to boost the nutritional value, I added some veggies. Be creative and add what you like. Add shredded chicken or cut up meat balls for…
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Basic But Delicious Baked Ziti
Growing up Italian, ricotta and mozzarella cheeses were a staple in our home. This delicious baked ziti recipe is a family favorite for holidays and just any day.
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Mock Fried Rice
If you have orzo in the house instead of rice, you can still whip up a batch of this easy tasty fried rice recipe. I started making my Fantastic Fried Rice the other day and realized I ran out of a…
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Razzle Dazzle Garlic and Oil Pasta
This is a lighter healthier version of what my family used to make when I was a kid. Who wants to eat all that oil anyway! The optional additions make it colorful and it gives the dish lots of flavor…
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Popeye's Spinach Lasagna
Cheese and spinach are such a good combination - what could be better than adding pasta!!
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Best Broccoli Soup
I made roasted broccoli and cauliflower one day and had lots of leftovers and decided to try morphing it into something else. Hence the soup!
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Fried Cauliflower or Broccoli
My family traditionally makes this for an appetizer on Christmas or New Years but I like to make it all year 'round. It is crunchy on the outside and smooth on the inside. Enjoy!
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Pierogies Ole
Spice up your pierogies with salsa and sour cream! My kids love these little pillows as a main course or snack. You can substitute these in recipes that call for ravioli too.
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Pierogies with Peppers, Onions and Sausage
Pierogies are Polish but can be made into anything. They are mild enough to add any flavors you like.
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Healthier Refried Beans
I love refried beans but the nutritionist said they are off limits so I made my own. This recipe is simple and tasty.
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Mighty Slow Cooker Meatball Stroganoff
Try out this easy meatball recipe in your slow cooker! While this isn't your typical recipe with tomato paste (that is the true Russian way), I figured I couldn't go wrong with mushroom soup, which my…
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Mexican Frittata Suprema
These frittatas are quick and easy with not too many ingredients, this breakfast is hearty. Serve with hashed brown potatoes and OJ.
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Potato and Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce
Believe me, this potato and cauliflower dish is really good! Served with buttered rice, it is yummy. This is a basic recipe from a restaurant I visited many times. Use as a side dish or main dish.
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Hoisin Chicken Lo Mein
I love to order Chinese take out but want to know what is in my food. I found this chicken lo mein recipe that was close to what ingredients I liked and tweaked it a bit. Hope you enjoy it.
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Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Supreme
I saw a Mexican Chicken recipe with the basics here and decided to jazz it up a bit. The chicken and salsa really pop with the sour cream. Ole!
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Marvelous Macaroni and Cheese
I love the boxed macaroni and cheese but sometimes I want something a little heartier and healthier. Even though you're using a whole lot of cheese in this recipes, the rest of the ingredients are fairly…
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Mediterranean Turkey on Whole Grain Bread
I've been trying to stay on a low-calorie diet and still eat interesting food so I made this Mediterranean Turkey Sandwich for lunch. Hope you like the flavors.
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Refried Bean Dip
I love refried beans and this dip is a great combination. It's not spicy so the kids can even eat it.
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Chili Dip
A friend of mine has to bring this chili dip every time she comes over, so I decided to learn how to make it myself. Yum.
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Shredded Chicken and Gravy
This is a lighter version of my Chicken and Gravy with Pasta but it is still delicious. Serve with buttered rice or cheesy mashed potatoes.
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Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken
I was looking for a healthy and cheap alternative for my family and came up with this sweet and sour chicken recipe. It was a big hit!
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Outrageous Orange Salad
I found this recipe in the summer and tweaked it a bit. It is light and refreshing any time of year. Fennel is healthy for you in that it provides Antioxidant Protection and Immune Support from Vitamin…
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Popeye's Simple Spinach Dip
Healthy, simple and good. Served with sliced French bread - this is a winner and the kids love it. Whenever we get together, this is on the table.
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Cheesy Garlic Biscuits
We love garlic bread in my house but I don't always have ciabatta bread so I use what is on hand. The biscuits were on sale so I had a few lying around. Good with my Split Pea Soup.
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White Bean and Escarole Soup
This white bean and escarole soup is warm and comforting on a cold evening. Hearty and healthy - who could ask for more?
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Easy Escarole
This is a light vegetable side dish that is healthy. Serve alongside grilled meats.
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The Real Deal Lasagna
Lasagna to me means lots of gooey cheeses and delicious sauce. Served with garlic bread - it's like heaven on a plate.
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Quick and Easy Turkey Breast
Why wait for Thanksgiving for turkey? This is a quick and easy recipe. You don't have to worry about the whole bird (no one in my family eats any dark meat). If you are having company, make one whole…
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Ravioli or Tortellini Soup
Quick and easy is what this delicious recipe is all about. It is even light enough to serve on warm days too.
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Fake Baked Sweet Potato
Why wait for Thanksgiving to have a sweet potato. You can make these all year long. As a side or main with roasted poultry or meat. Not too sweet, just right.
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Fake Baked White Potatoes
I am always cooking and looking for short cuts that still taste good. This is definitely a time saver. Serve with a salad and you have a cheap, tasty meal.
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Spinach Fritters or Mini Pies
A smaller version of my Italian Spinach Pie, these fritters are great on Italian bread with ketchup or served as an appetizer or side dish.
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Simple Spinach Dip
This is the simplest spinach dip recipe I have seen so far. It doesn't have too many ingredients and it's easy to prepare. This is also a great way to get veggies into your kids.
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Roasted Chestnuts without the Open Fire
You knew thanksgiving was coming when these came out of the oven. The chestnut itself is sweet and with a hint of salt, it is the perfect snack or part of the after dinner dessert.
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Creamy Cheesy Calzone
This calzone recipe is so easy and quick - I just love the combination of cheese and dough. Adding a few other ingredients brings it to a new level. Spinach and mushrooms or prosciutto make this a meal.…
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Italian Tomato and Onion Salad
This is a light side or main dish. Add some crusty bread and cheese and it's a feast.
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Mock Sloppy Joes
I ran out of the usual sauce for Sloppy Joe's so I thought to use the gravy. It was something different and the kids enjoyed it too.
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Sausage, Peppers and Onions In a Pinch
This is definitely a cheap meal. It is great to make when you have a lot of company. If the yellow and orange peppers aren't on sale, get the green ones - no big deal. Also, buy sausage in bulk and freeze.
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Perfect Fried Plantains
This is a great way to get the kids to eat their fruit and they don't even know it. A sprinkle of salt makes it more appealing.
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Mozzarella en Carrozza or Italian Grilled Cheese
Translated it means mozzarella in the carriage. The carriage being the crusty bread. This is a delicious appetizer, mid-day snack or evening meal with a salad and side vegetable or even some Split Pea…
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Hot Dogs Under Wrap
Hot dogs baked inside crescent roll puffs make a great appetizer or main course! When I don't have time to buy crescent rolls or pizza dough, I reach for my trusty Bisquick Baking Mix. The kids love helping…
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Fried Pizza
This is a quick way to cook pizza. It isn't loaded down with toppings so it's light in flavor.
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Mediterranean Burgers
Spinach and feta cheese turn an everyday boring burger into something special.
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Spaghetti Pie
We always made this with leftover pasta. It was a midweek meal and we always looked forward to it. You can also cut into wedges and serve as an appetizer.
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Charming Chili
This recipe was given to me by a friend. Everyone loved it. I especially make it in December when Santa comes to visit. We have a house full of people afterward and the adults and children love it.
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Roast Beef Calzone
For the meat lovers, this one is definitely on the list. Hot, cheesy and crunchy at the same time.
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Turkey Calzone
My husband eats so much turkey that I got tired of serving it in a sandwich. It was a big hit. It is a healthy and wholesome meal. Serve with salad.
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Perfect Stuffed Peppers
This is something that was always made when the family gathered. Served with Italian bread - yum!
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Zany Zucchini Boats
I make these as a main course or appetizer. The flavors compliment each other and the cheeses make it so creamy.
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Man What a Pizza
Tired of the same old thing with manwich? I made it into a pizza! Easy and fast and everyone loved it. Hope you do too. Use whole wheat pizza dough pizza for more nutrition.
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Egg-cellent Deviled Eggs
These deviled eggs are good for parties or just a snack after school. Using mustard definitely brings them up a notch.
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Caponata with Pasta
I had so many different veggies in the fridge that I decided to make this dish. It was so good. You can also serve at room temperature on crackers as an appetizer or heated on grilled meats.
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Hot Dog Pillows
I made this recipe up yesterday when I couldn't think of what to make for dinner. Everyone loved it and asked that I make it at least once a week.
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Potato Croquettes with Mozzarella and Tomato Dipping Sauce
These croquettes are so smooth and creamy. These can definitely be made into a meal if you want to add some ham matchsticks along with a salad.
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Rice Balls
This is something my family enjoys for holidays. Some of us prefer just cheese oozing out of the center while others enjoy a little meat with sauce and cheese. Either way, they are easy to prepare!
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Cozy Spaghetti Squash with Cannellini Beans
Hearty and quick, this meal will definitely become a regular in your repertoire. Serve with crusty garlic bread and a salad and you are all set!
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Mighty Stuffed Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a big thing in my house and the kids loves this one too. Whenever there is a family get together, I am asked to bring lots of these mushrooms.
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Stuffed Mushrooms Florentine
These mushrooms are a little different than you would find at your local Italian restaurant. The rice and spinach are a great combination with the cheeses.
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Chocolate Chip Panettone French Toast
Panettone is an Italian bread that sometimes has dried fruit and chocolate in it. It can be used as dessert, breakfast, whatever you can think of. Good for any day or holiday. It is available all year…
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Easy Orange Cranberry Chocolate Dipped Biscotti
I started making these as a snack for my family to take with them when working in the evenings. It is a nice pick-me-up, but it's light and airy and doesn't weigh you down. Great with cold milk too!
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Swiss Oats (Cold Oatmeal)
Saw this on a show that is all about healthy options. Don't have time in the morning to cook your oatmeal, try this. My kids loved it.
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Perfect Pancake
My family loves choosing their own toppings whenever I make pancakes. I put out 3 or whatever is requested that morning and they build their own breakfast. Anything to get kids to eat, right!? I always…
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Chocolate Meringue Drops
This is a quick and delicious no-fat, no-carb dessert. Warm out of the oven, it's like eating a chocolate kiss!
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Jammin' Jello Surprise
This is always a bit hit at gatherings. It is a light, cool and low fat dessert in which you can mix and match fruits and jello flavors to make it even more special. Add fresh fruit to the center to dress…
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Macaroni and Peas
My family loves this recipe. It is hearty and delicious. Add sauteed chicken for a full meal and serve with my Keep Away the Vampires Cheesy Garlic Bread. Use multigrain pasta for more nutrition.
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Pasta with Ricotta
This is a comfort food from when we were kids. My mom would make this as a quick snack after school or for dinner.
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Balsamic Chicken Italiano
I was in the mood for something with vinegar and came up with this balsamic chicken recipe. I am actually serving it with buttered brown rice.
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Comfort in a Cup Chicken Soup
This easy soup was made for us whenever we were sick from a cold. It is good any season of the year.
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Souper French Onion Soup
This warm and comforting soup can be made stove top or in the slow cooker. With minimal ingredients you can have a great meal. Leftovers are the best!
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String Bean and Potato Salad
My mom used to prepare this salad with grilled meats. It is fresh and light and stands up well to the summer heat.
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Split Pea Soup
This is a family recipe. It reminds me of wintery nights at home with my folks. We'd make a meal out of it with crusty Italian garlic bread.
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Sausage, Rice and Craisin Stuffing
We always made bread stuffing for holidays, but it wasn't my thing so we came up with this rice stuffing. Adding Craisins makes it a little more festive but isn't necessary.
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Sassy Chicken Parmesan Casserole
The Italian dressing in this chicken Parmesan casserole gives the chicken zing and keeps it moist. Smoked mozzarella will add another layer of flavor. Is your mouth watering too?
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Cheesy Zucchini
A great way to get the kids to eat their veggies. This has become a family tradition at our house for Thanksgiving. It is also inexpensive and would be great for a pot luck!
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Cream Cheese Surprise Dessert
After Christmas I found myself with lots of leftover desserts, so I decided to make these so I wouldn't have to throw away delicious desserts.
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Grandma B's Lemon Pie
This recipe was given to me by a friend. It was definitely a hit!
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Fried Dessert Pizza
Pizza dough isn't just for dinner anymore. Try this delicious, luscious dessert any time. This is definitely something to make for your special Valentine.
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Where's the Alfredo Chicken and Pasta
My family loves the flavor of alfredo but not all the calories and cholesterol. I think this is a good match for the flavors we love.
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Sweet Dumpling Pumpkin and Quinoa Mash
I bought this squash and couldn't figure out what to do with it. This sweet pumpkin quinoa mash came out tasting just like candy with a healthy twist!
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Righteous Rice
I made this rice with stuff I had in the house. Turned out pretty good, if I say so myself!
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Lazy Lentil Soup
This soup is so comforting. You can make a big pot and serve to guests. Add meat and make it a meal.
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Pasta with Broccoli and Garlic
When I was younger my mom used to make this with lots of oil. My healthier version includes broth instead of all the oil AND I use whole wheat spaghetti. Either way, served with crunchy cheesy garlic…
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Sassy Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is something I grew up with but I think it is definitely an acquired taste. I think that the sauce and cheese will make it more palatable for you newbies. It can be a side dish or main dish…
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Burstin' with Flavor Burgers
I was tired of the same old burger so I kind of came up with this recipe. Now when we have our yearly BBQ for 80, this is a big hit and everyone asks for seconds. I usually make around 60 burgers and…
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Mediterranean Chicken
Light and flavorful. It's definitely a winner.
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Chicken and Gravy with Pasta
I came up with this recipe while altering one of my other recipes - it's very easy and tasty!
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Side Splitting Split Pea Soup
Whenever there is a party and a spiral ham is served my family demands I make this soup. I freeze individual portions with leftovers so that anyone can have some any time they like. Do not add pasta to…
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My Mama's Tomato Sauce
Every Sunday growing up the family would converge at my mom's or my grandmother's house. The house smelled so good - whenever I smell cooking garlic and onions it reminds me of happy times. We call it…
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Italian Spinach Pie
This was something my mom made up for a quick lunch or snack. It brings back lots of memories.
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Smooth Broccoli and Quinoa
I started eating quinoa after seeing a TV show. It is a great substitute for rice or pastina.
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Timeless Tetrazzini
This was a regular at our house. Served with a salad and crusty garlic bread - it is definitely a winner.
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Frankly Francaise
This is a dish that I used to order all the time, having them add the mushrooms because I am a freak when it comes to mushrooms. My kids asked for it so much that I decided to make it myself to keep the…
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Keep On Rollin' Chicken Braciole
This recipe is creamy, warm and satisfying. I make this for company and it seems to please everyone. You can substitute pork cutlets or even beef - it works well with either of these meats. Hope you enjoy…
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Pleasin Pulled Pork
This dish can be made with center cut pork chops or pork tenderloin. You can even substitute chicken or beef for this recipe. It's easy to put together and a breeze to cook with no hassle. Good for any…
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Slow Cooker Chicken Sloppy Joes
I was looking for a way to make sloppy joes a little healthier. Instead of using ground chicken which has fat added, I use chicken breasts. I always purchase chicken breasts with or without the bone when…
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Luscious London Broil from Your Slow Cooker
This London Broil recipe is a one pot wonder that's so easy. I was shopping yesterday and the London broil was on sale so I decided to make this recipe. Hope your family likes it too. You can substitute…
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Rice Stuffing
Years ago my mom used to stuff the turkey with this rice recipe. I like it so much I don't wait for a turkey to make it. If you want to make a meal out of this, add 4 links of sauteed sausage for heartier…
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Stove Top Play Dough
This play dough recipe was given to me by my daughter's teacher. They have an allergy-free class and this is what they use.
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Over The Moon Cheesy Orzo
Orzo was a pastina made in my home growing up. It is so comforting and warm mixed with ricotta and Parmesan.
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Corny Dogs
This is a childhood favorite of mine. My mom would serve these hot dogs with tater tots. The ketchup was so sweet and yummy - my mouth is watering as I write this. To change it up, you can also use mustard…
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Gracious Green Bean Casserole
This green bean casserole is a great dish to make and bring to a pot luck or friend's house. It is creamy, crunchy and warm.
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Oh My Gosh Onions
These "oh my gosh" onions can be served over hot dogs, grilled steak or even chicken! Since trying to lose weight, I am off hot dogs so I put them on grilled chicken along with kraut – I didn't miss…
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Marvelous Marsala
I love the flavor of mushrooms and marsala. I always make extra and serve over mashed potatoes without the meat for a leftover snack.
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Million Dollar Mushrooms
These mushrooms will become a favorite. They are tender and tangy and go great with any grilled meat or burgers!
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Pig Skin Braciole for Tomato Sauce
This is a family recipe passed on for generations. I was voted best cook of this item in the family which included my mom and both grandmothers! The skin can be found in the meat case near the pork by…
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Creamy Balsamic Chicken Pasta Salad
This 'no cook' recipe is creamy and delicious! Use leftover pasta and chicken and you are on your way to a gourmet picnic! I use whole wheat pasta but you can use what you prefer.
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