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Lemon-Lime Pound Cake

I can see Spring is around the corner.  The first day of Spring is March 20th, and I can’t wait for it to get here.  I have noticed that all of my tulips and daffodils are starting to pop up.  I hear the birds already chirping and having fun being free.

I came across this Lemon-Lime Pound Cake recipe in a Southern Living magazine. The cake looked so refreshing and I thought that it would be the perfect cake to make and get me in the spirit of Spring.

Every time I make a dessert with lemon it reminds me of my mom.  My mom’s favorite desserts were all made with lemon.  She loved lemon meringue pie.  The taste of lemon really comes through in this cake because of the lemon zest in the batter.

For the cake I used a stoneware baking pan.  It gives the outside of the cake a beautiful color.  Adding just the lemon-lime glaze over the top was perfect.  The cake turned out really good.  I had  a couple of pieces with my coffee, and gave my neighbors a piece too.  Within a couple of days the cake was gone, a sign that the cake was really good.

The candied lemons were a great addition to the cake and were really tasty.

I cooked the lemon rounds in sugar and water for about 45 minutes, then I placed them on a wire rack for about a couple of hours before decorating the cake.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups butter, softened
3 cups sugar
5 large eggs
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup lemon-lime soft drink (7up)
shortening
lemon-lime glaze
candied lemons-optional
lime rind twists, garnish-optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 10-inch bundt pan with shortening and flour, set aside. Beat butter at medium speed with a heavy-duty electric stand mixer until creamy. Gradually add sugar, beat at medium speed 3 to 5 minutes or until light and fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and extracts.

Add Flour to butter mixture alternately with lemon-lime soft drink, beginning and ending with flour. Beat at low speed just until blended after each addition. Pour batter into prepared pan.

Bake at 350 for 1 hour 15 or until a long wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean, shielding with aluminum foil after 45-50 minutes to prevent excessive browning. Cool in pan on a wire rack 10 minutes, remove cake from pan to wire rack. Spoon Lemon-Lime Glaze over warm or room temperature cake. Top with Candied Lemons, if desire.

Lemon-Lime Glaze

2 cups confectioners’ sugar
2 tsp lemon zest
1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh lime

In a bowl whisk together all ingredients until blended and smooth. For a thinner glaze, stir in an additional 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp at a time.

Candied Lemons

2 medium lemons cut into 1/8 inch thick slices
4 cups water
2 cups granulated sugar

In a large, heavy saucepan stir together water and sugar, bring to a light boil, stirring just until sugar dissolves. Add lemons, reduce heat to medium low. Gently simmer 45 minutes or until rinds are very soft and lemons are translucent, turning lemons every 15 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon, and place in a single layer on a wire rack. Cool Completely.

Source:  Southern Living

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

The first time I had this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread was at a breakfast where I used to work.  My friend Omi had baked it for us and I really loved it.  I love banana bread, but I had never had it with chocolate chips.  This is absolutely delicious.  The bananas with the chocolate chips taste really good together.

This is another way you can make banana bread when you have those ripe bananas sitting on your counter.  The recipe is really easy.  You can enjoy it for breakfast or just as a snack anytime of the day.

When you cut into the chocolate banana bread you can see the melted chocolate chips all over, the walnuts and little pieces of banana.   The bread is super moist, perfect with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. 

The banana breads were in the oven for exactly 65 minutes. Make sure to check the banana bread before taking it out of the oven because temperatures vary depending on oven.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup vegetable shortening

2 eggs

3 ripe mashed bananas

1 tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1 cup mini-chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 Degrees F.  Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.  Mix on medium speed all ingredients except the walnuts and chocolate chips.  Then stir in the walnuts and chocolate chips. Pour batter into prepared pan.

Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a wooden stick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool for about 10 minutes, then remove from  pan.  Cool completely on wire rack.

Individual Calzones

These Individual Calzones are delicious.  This was our weekend treat.  It might seem like a lot of work to do, but it really isn't.  I had made the  Pizza Dough  last week, I cut it in half, made a Deep Dish pizza and saved the other half to make these calzones.  The Homemade Pizza Sauce is made from scratch and really easy.

Most of the times we are in the kitchen trying to figure out what to cook.  The pizza dough can be made ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator for about a day or freeze it in a ziploc freezer bag for up to 3 months.  It's great to have it ready to go for those days when you want something quick.

The Week in Review

Happy Saturday!!

1.  How was your week?  My week started great and ended not so good.  Some personal stuff that I'm going through that I'm leaving in God's hands.  He knows everything, and when you have faith and believe, things will turn out great.  No doubt in my mind. 

2.  I usually plan ahead of time what I'm going to cook and post to the blog.  Last weekend I decided to make Deep Dish Pizza.  I made my own Pizza Dough and my delicious and easy to make Homemade Pizza Sauce.  The best part about making everything is that you are able to control what you put into it.  I find that most pizza places add too much salt. You can cut the dough in half and  make 2-12 inch pizzas or you can make one pizza and 4 calzones with the other half.

Fudgy Chocolate Brownies

These decadent Fudgy Chocolate Brownies are to die for.  I have never met anyone that doesn't like chocolate.  I find that chocolate makes everything better, at least for me it does.  These fudgy brownies can be topped with pecans, walnuts, chocolate ganache or just a big scoop of ice cream or a glass of milk.

Perfect for any occasion, easy and very satisfying.  Make sure you eat a piece because I'm sure everyone is going to want a second serving.  

Beignets

Beignets are like doughnuts except they are square and have no holes.  If you have been to New Orleans, then you should know about Beignets.  I've never been, but I know these soft as pillow fried deliciousness are their specialty.  Beignets, is French for "fritters". Beignets are raised pieces of yeast dough, that after frying they are sprinkled with confectioners' sugar.

I had my eye on this recipe for a while, and finally I decided to make them.  I can't believe I waited so long, these things are delicious, the outside is crispy and soft as pillows on the inside.  You won't eat just one, believe me.  These Beignets are on my top 5 all time favorite desserts.

Deep Dish Pizza

Back in the days when my husband used to travel to Chicago for work, he would always come home talking about a Deep Dish Pizza from Gino's East.  My husband described it as the best pizza he ever had.  Coming from Connecticut and eating pizzas in different places including NY, that was a big statement.

I have not had the privilege of eating it yet, I will soon as Chicago is one of the places I would love to visit in the near future.  Even thought this deep dish pizza is not Gino's, my husband says, it is delicious and perhaps even better.  After bragging about Gino's, I'm not sure if I believe him, but one thing I do know, my deep dish pizza is really good.

Pizza Dough

This is such an easy Pizza Dough to make.  You can make any kind of pizza  you like, Deep Dish Pizzas, thin crust pizzas and calzones too.  This dough makes 2 12-inch pizzas or 8 individual calzones.  What I normally do is cut it in half, use half for a deep dish pizza and the other half for about 4 calzones.

I love this dough recipe and it's the one I always make.   Make it early in the morning and have it ready for dinner time.  You can refrigerate the dough for a few days.

Homemade Pizza Sauce

The best thing about this Homemade Pizza Sauce, is that you can control what goes into it.  It's not salty, it has great flavor and is my go to sauce when making pizzas or calzones.

This sauce is a little thicker in texture compared to a Marinara Sauce for dishes like Chicken Parmesan.  It's not runny and perfect for pizza or calzones. 

Ingredients

2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil

1-28 oz can of Crushed Tomatoes

1-12 oz can of Tomato Paste

1-8 oz can of Tomato Sauce

1 med size onion chopped small

4 garlic cloves-Minced

1 tsp of sugar

1 tsp of salt

1 tsp of black pepper

1 tsp of dried oregano

1 tsp of dried sweet basil

In medium size pot add the olive oil, garlic and onions..cook on medium heat until the onions are translucent. Cook for about 5 minutes.  Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, oregano and basil. Cook until nice and thick, about 15-20 minutes.

The Week in Review

Happy Saturday!!

1.  It was a crazy week.  We had about 2 inches of ice and then about 3 inches of snow.  We never really get snow here in Marietta, GA, and if we do is never much.  This time everything was covered, it was crazy.  But since we didn't really have to go anywhere, I really didn't mind.

2.  On Valentine's Day I received some beautiful flowers and cards from my hubby and two boys, Cayman and Caico.  The flowers are beautiful.  We went out to dinner to one of our favorite places, Cabernet Steakhouse.  I had a full meal that included lobster and crab cakes for appetizer and Steak and potatoes for dinner.  For dessert I had chocolate cake and bread pudding (small servings), both desserts were delicious.  Had a fantastic time with my husband.

Raspberry, Coconut Damn!!!

Happy Valentine's Day!  Here is a special drink to celebrate this special day.  This is a delicious drink that you will both love.  This Raspberry, Coconut Damn!! is really delicious and perfect for any special occasion like, Valentine's Day.

Fried Pork Chunks (Masitas de Cerdo Frita)

I grew up eating pork in many different ways, grilled, roasted and fried.  These Fried Pork Chunks are crispy and seasoned to perfection.  I don't cook pork as much as I do chicken but from time to time I do enjoy some pork with a side of Arroz con Gandulez (Pigeon Peas Rice), some fried Tostones (Fried Plantains) or Mofongo.  

There are many people that prefer staying away from the pork for health reasons.  The only thing I can say is that everything is good with moderation.  A piece of pork once in a while is not going to kill you.  Roasting it or grilling it are other great options if you are trying to stay away from fried foods.

I like to cut the meat in small chunks and season it very well.  Fry the chunks until browned and crispy and enjoy with your favorite side dish. 

Ingredients

3 pound pork shoulder cut up into chunks

1/4 cup white vinegar

1/2 tbsp garlic powder

1/2 tbsp onion powder

salt to taste

1/2 tbsp black pepper

oil for frying

Season pork chunks with white vinegar, garlic powder, onion, salt, and black pepper.   Add enough oil to a frying pan and heat on medium heat.  When the oil is hot enough start frying the chunks of pork.  Do not over fill the pan.  You can do this in two batches.  Pork chunks should be fried until golden brown. 

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

These Chocolate Covered Strawberries are great for any special celebration.  Make these for your significant other on Valentine's Day, which is only a couple of days away.  Valentine's Day is all about love and chocolate.

Open up a bottle of dessert wine like a Moscato to go with the strawberries and enjoy.  I promise you, they will all be gone before you know it. 

Rellenos de Papa (Stuffed Potato Balls)

These Rellenos de Papa (Stuffed Potato Balls) are absolutely delicious.  I grew up eating Alcapurrias and Rellenos de Papa and they are one of  my favorite things to eat when I visit my island of Puerto Rico, besides every pastry, fresh bread and cheese, but I'll leave that for another day.

I remember the last time I visited my family in the town of Utuado, my aunt made me Pasteles and Rellenos de Papa with some black eye peas rice.  My husband and I still talk about that meal.  I come from a big family of excellent cooks.  I often think of my mom and everything she cooked for us.  Going to Puerto Rico to visit my family brought back so many great memories.

Blueberry 'n' Cheese Coffee Cake

This delicious mouth watering Blueberry 'n" Cheese Coffee Cake gets its moistness from the fresh blueberries and the cream cheese.  The crumb topping has lemon zest and it smells delicious.

My mom loved coffee cakes, and I wish she was still around so that she could help me make and enjoy this one with me.  I'm sure she would have loved it. 

 

The Week in Review

Happy Saturday!!

1.  I hope everyone had a great week.  I had a busy one, but I can't really complain. 

2.  I was busy this week cooking.  I made some amazing things.  On Sunday after church I made Giant Sunday Pancakes for my husband and I.  Those pancakes were delicious.  On Tuesday I posted the Pork Roast (Pernil).  I cooked it on low for about 4 hours and it was falling off the bone.  That is the secret to a tender and juicy pork roast.

Since Valentine's Day is next month I decided to make some Red Velvet Cupcake with Cream Cheese Frosting.  This cupcakes were so good!  I took some over to my neighbors house for Super Bowl Sunday and they were all gone before the game was even over. 

Classic Potato Salad was another dish I made this week. The potatoes had a great texture and the dressing was really creamy.    I finished the week with Tostones (Fried Plantains).  Tostones are made with green plantains.  They are tender inside and super crunchy on the outside.

Tostones (Fried Plantains)

Tostones are a staple in all of the Caribbean.  They are made from green plantains.  Plantains are similar to bananas just more starchier.  Tostones are always a great side dish to rice and beans and some kind of protein.  

The plantain has to be really green to make the tostones really crispy.  Plantains are also used to make Mofongo.  Mofongo is another side dish made with garlic and oil.  Both dishes are really good.

Classic Potato Salad

I know that there are many versions of what a Classic Potato Salad should be.  This Classic Potato Salad has a mayonnaise and mustard base with onions, celery and boiled eggs.  Sounds Classic enough for me.

I love making this potato salad in the summer with grilled ribs, chicken and even pork chops.  The best part about this potato salad, is that you can put it together in a few minutes and throw in the refrigerator until ready to eat.

Make sure that the potatoes are not overcooked.  You want them to be tender but firm, remember we are making potato salad not mashed potatoes.  I love everything about this potato salad, it has great texture and taste, it's creamy and just simply delicious.

Ingredients

3-4 pounds red potatoes, peeled cut into quarters

1 cup mayonnaise

2 tbsp dijon mustard

2 tbsp white vinegar

1/2 cup chopped celery

1/2 cup chopped white or red onion

salt to taste

1/2 tsp black pepper

4 hard boiled eggs, peeled cut into small pieces

Boil potatoes in salted water.  Potatoes should be cooked until tender but still firm.  Place potatoes in large bowl.  Mix together the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.  Add mixture to the potatoes, then add the celery and onions.  Mix well, stir in the eggs. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Red Velvet Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting

When I first moved to Atlanta, GA everyone I met would say "You have to try the Red Velvet Cake" and so I did.  I was very disappointed.  I found that the Red Velvet Cake was a little too dry for me.  As years went by I wanted to give it a try, but this time I was going to get in my kitchen and make it myself.

I started comparing different recipes from baking cookbooks I own and recipes online.  I found this recipe from a book I purchased a few months ago, The Complete Cook's Country TV Show Cookbook.  I reviewed the recipe and it sounded easy and the cake on the picture didn't look dry.

So, this weekend I decided to try out the recipe and I'm so happy I did.  Instead of a cake I decided to make cupcakes.  These cupcakes are delicious, super moist and with the Cream Cheese Frosting, a perfect combination.  Now I have a different opinion of this cake.

Pork Roast (Pernil)

The secret to a tasty, tender Pork Roast is a lot of garlic, coarse black pepper and cooking it at a low temperature.  I seasoned this pork shoulder the day before, allowing it to marinade for at least 24 hours before roasting.  The meat just came right off the bone, tender and juicy.

I decided to make some Pigeon Peas Rice (Arroz con Gandules) and some potato salad to go with it.  This is also great with a side of Mofongo, either way you can't go wrong.

Giant Sunday Pancakes

The best thing after going to church on a Sunday morning is coming home to some home made pancakes.  These Giant Sunday Pancakes are not only fluffy and buttery but they are amazing.  Why buy a box of pancake mix when you can make your own at home.

Get in your kitchen this weekend and make your family these delicious, satisfying, fluffy pancakes, they will thank you for it.

Ingredients

3 large eggs

1/2 cup sugar

6 tbsp butter, melted

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup of milk

1 tbsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

butter for cooking

maple syrup

To keep pancakes warm heat oven to 250 degrees F.  Mix together the eggs, sugar and butter in a bowl.  Add flour alternately with the milk in 3 additions, whisking to blend after each addition.  Whisk in baking powder and salt.

Melt enough butter in a heavy medium nonstick skillet over medium heat just to coat bottom.  Ladle scant 3/4 cup batter into skillet, rotating skillet to spread batter to about 6-inch diameter round.   Cook pancakes until bubbles form and break on surface and bottom is brown, about 2 minutes.

Turn over pancake and cook until bottom is brown and pancake is cooked through, about 2 minutes.  Transfer to large baking sheet and place in oven to keep warm. Repeat with remaining batter, adding more butter to skillet as necessary.  Serve with maple syrup.

Source:  The Bon Appetit Cookbook

The Week in Review

Happy Saturday!!

1.  In case you have not heard, there is a Super Bowl game going on this weekend.  Super Bowl XLVIII kicks off this Sunday.  The Denver Broncos take on Seattle Seahawks, this should be a great game.   Who are you cheering for?  Since our team the NY Giants, did not make it to the Super Bowl, I guess I'm gonna have to cheer for the Denver Broncos.  It should be an exciting game.

2.  If you are having a little get together, what are you serving your guests?  I made a list of some great appetizers and desserts that can be made ahead of time. 

10 Super Bowl Appetizers and Desserts Recipes

Looking for some great appetizers and desserts for Super Bowl Sunday?  Here is a list of 5 appetizers and 5 delicious desserts you can make ahead of time. These are really easy recipes to put together and enjoy with some great drinks.  Have fun!

Chili 

5 Great Super Bowl Drinks

Getting ready to watch the Super Bowl this weekend?  Here is a list of 5 drinks you can make for your guests during game time.  It's a mix of drinks that will have your guests happy all through the game.  Enjoy these with some great appetizers and some delicious desserts.  

Frozen Pineapple Margarita

Vanilla Creme Brulee

There is nothing more delicious than this Vanilla Creme Brulee. This is a great finale to a great meal and this dessert can be served warm or cold.  If you are looking for the perfect dessert to serve to your significant other on Valentine's Day, this is it.

There are many dishes and desserts on my bucket list.  This one was one of them, and I'm happy I was able to make it.  I'm never intimidated by cooking or baking anything, the more complex the recipe the better. 

This is a really easy dessert to make. Review the recipe and you will be surprised as to how easy it is. 

Slow Cooked BBQ Ribs

I love cooking in my slow cooker.  I have cooked chicken, pork roast and even brisket.  The meats come out super tender and juicy.  The best part about the slow cooker is that you can set it early in the day and have the meat ready for dinner time.

I decided to make barbecue ribs in the slow cooker.  Place all of the ingredients in the slow cooker and just let it cook for a few hours.  This is a great way to have barbecue ribs all in one pot without having to add barbecue sauce.  When the cooking is done you will have super tender, delicious, falling off the bones ribs in a barbecue sauce.  

These ribs are great and the slow cooker did all of the work.  I cooked the ribs for 4 hours on high. The ribs turned out exactly how I wanted.  If you don't have a slow cooker, I suggest you get one and give it a try specially if you are a busy person.  

Ingredients

3 pounds  pork spareribs, cut into single ribs

2 cups ketchup

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp chili powder

2 tsp ground cumin

2 cloves of garlic minced

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper-optional

Place the ribs in the bottom of a slow cooker. In a medium bowl mix together all of the other ingredients.  Pour the mixture over the spareribs.  Cover and cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. 

Slow Roasted Herb Chicken

Roasting a chicken is one of the easiest things you can do. Using fresh herbs to season the chicken is the way to go.  The chicken comes out moist and tender with great flavor. The best way to eat this Slow Roasted Herb Chicken is with some homemade Mashed Potatoes or Roasted Baby Potatoes and perhaps a side of vegetables.

 

Sinful Layer Chocolate Cake

Why go out and buy a chocolate cake when you can just make it at home.  This Sinful Layer Chocolate Cake is just that, sinful.  This cake is moist and delicious and perfect for any celebration. 

Making a dinner for your significant other for Valentine's Day?  Why not bake this wonderful cake, they are going to be impress.  As you know Valentine's Day is all about chocolate and this cake is just perfect for the occasion.

Another reason to make this cake today is because today is National Chocolate Cake Day.  

The Week in Review

Happy Saturday!!

1.  I had a great week, nothing to complain about.  How was your week?  Any plans for the weekend?

2. I have a big kitchen and a lot of cabinets, and I think I have every pot and gadget in the market.  I also have a lot of cake pans from the smallest to the biggest in all shapes.  I love anything and everything that has to do with kitchen.  I came across this website, Uncommon Goods.  This website has a lot of unusual things, including kitchen things. 

Happy Hour: Coconut Margarita

Thanks God is Friday, happy hour has arrived.  I was trying to figure out what to drink today, and I came across this recipe that includes Coco Lopez and orange liqueur, I knew it had to be good.

I had my husband taste it first, and all he said was "You are going to be my bartender for now on", So I knew I had just found a really delicious drink.  

This Coconut Margarita was the perfect drink on this cold Friday sitting by my fireplace relaxing and enjoying my family.  Make this drink, sit back and relax, no worries and enjoy!!!

Lime Fried Chicken Wings

The Super Bowl is right around the corner.  Now that we know who is going to be playing, it's time to plan the menu.  What is a game of football without some delicious chicken wings?  These Lime Fried Chicken Wings are the perfect finger food during game time.

The wings are a little tangy from the lime, crispy and delicious.  Enjoy!

Ingredients

18 wings washed and pat dried

3/4 cup of fresh lime juice

2 garlic cloves minced

1 1/2 tsp salt divided

1 1/2 tsp garlic powder divided

1 1/2 onion powder divided

1 tsp black pepper divided

1 1/2 cup all purpose flour

oil for frying

To make the marinade, mix together the lime juice, garlic, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp black pepper.  Mix well.  Place the chicken wings into a resealable 1 gallon plastic food storage bag, then add the marinade.  Marinade in the refrigerator overnight or up to 2 hours.

Take chicken out of the refrigerator and drain through a colander at least 15 minutes before frying.   
Into another resealable bag add the flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp black pepper, stir to combine.  Set a large cast iron dutch oven or frying pan over medium-high heat and add enough oil to cover the wings.  Keep oil at around 350 degrees on a thermometer.

Place at least 6 wings into the bag, shake to coat.  Fry chicken wings until nice and brown, about 8-10 minutes.  Repeat until all wings are fried. 

Chicken Stir-Fry

It's a very cold night outside and I was debating on what to cook.  I looked in the freezer and I saw the chicken breasts and the stir-fry bag.  So I said, Chicken Stir-Fry over White Rice it is.  This is an easy, quick and delicious dish.  I had dinner on the table in less than an hour and everyone was happy.

The stir-fry bag that I used has broccoli, sugar snap peas, green beans, yellow squash, red peppers, carrots, yellow peppers and water chestnuts. You can find other ones at the supermarket in the freezer or you can just add the kinds of vegetables that you like. 

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts cut into thin strips

2 tbsp olive oil

1 pound bag of stir fry vegetables

2 garlic cloves minced

Salt to taste

1 cup chicken broth

3 tbsp soy sauce

2 tbsp cornstarch

1 tbsp sugar

White Rice Recipe

In a skillet heat the oil on medium heat, add the chicken and cook until no longer pink and chicken starting to brown.  Add the garlic and vegetables, cook for about 5 minutes.  In a small bowl mix the chicken broth, soy sauce, cornstarch and sugar, mix well.  Add to the chicken and cook until thick.  Add salt to taste.  Serve over White Rice.  

Sorullitos de Maiz (Cornmeal Sticks)

I grew up eating Sorullitos de Maiz (Cornmeal Sticks) for breakfast with coffee.  As a Puerto Rican, drinking coffee as a kid is part of our culture.  Even as an adult the only way I eat these is with a big cup.  My mom's sorullitos were the best.  Her recipe is totally different than this one.  Her recipe has milk and vanilla in the ingredients and we also add cheese in the inside, as you bite the cheese oozes out.  I will make that recipe another day.

I decided to make this particular recipe because I didn't have milk to make my mom's recipe and this recipe was really easy.  Since they turned out so good, I decided to share the recipe with you. These are perfectly fried, nice and golden brown. Crispy on the outside and soft in the inside. 

This recipe does not have cheese in the inside.  But you can certainly add some.  Cut a few pieces of your favorite cheese and when rolling the mixture into sorullitos make an indentation and place a piece inside. I like to use Velveeta because it melts really quick.  Make sure that you cover it so that the cheese does not come out while frying.

Ingredients

1 cup fine cornmeal

1 1/2 cup water

3 tbsp sugar or to taste

pinch of salt

oil for frying

In a pot on medium heat add the water, sugar and salt.  When it boils add the cornmeal and continue to mix with a spoon (wood) until it forms a ball.  Remove from heat.  Let cool down a little bit.  Then form the sorullitos.  Add about 2 tbsp or so of the mixture into the palm of your hand, make a ball then roll to make the sorullito shape.  Add enough oil to a frying pan and fry on medium heat.  Fry until golden brown. 

Lasagna Roll Ups

This is a nice twist on a fabulous dish.  These Lasagna Roll Ups are not just delicious, but easy to make and serve.  I love making traditional lasagna, but I hate the mess when trying to serve it.  When you make it this way, all you have to do is pick up each individual roll up and place on a serving plate.

The Week in Review

Happy Saturday!!

1.  Had a great week, relaxed, cooked a few wonderful dishes and read a little bit.  How was your week?

2.  As you all know I collect cooking books and I buy them wherever I find them.  I like going to Goodwill because they are only $2.98, no matter what kind of books they are.  I often get lucky with books that were just released within the last few years, that normally retail for over $20.00 dollars.

This week I decided to go to a Thrift store right by my house.  I couldn't believe their prices.  All hardcover books were 4 for $1.00 and softcover were 8 for $1.00, I was shocked.  Now the only difference between the Goodwill that I go to and the Thrift store is the organization.  At Goodwill books are sorted out..but at the Thrift store you have to look because they are all mixed in.  But That's okay with me.  I will find that book in the biggest mess.  I had so much fun, I can't wait to go again.

So, if you are looking for books, any kind of books go to your nearest Goodwill or Thrift store and check there first before spending too much money at a book store. 

Happy Hour: Sour Appletini

End your Friday with a nice relaxing drink.  I'm not a big drinker but from time to time I like to enjoy a nice drink.  This Sour Appletini is not only easy to make, but it's really good.  Make this Sour Appletini, sit back and enjoy!

Using Sour Apple Pucker Schnapps will enhance the sharpness as will the lemon juice. 

Ingredients

Ice

2 ounces of Vodka

1 ounce Sour Apple Pucker Schnapps

1/4 ounce lemon juice

Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice cubes, shake well.  Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.  Enjoy!

Southern-Style Skillet Cornbread

This is a savory Southern-Style Skillet Cornbread.  Cornbread in the South is usually made without sugar and flour. I wanted to make a cornbread that was savory, with hearty corn flavor and after looking through one of my favorite books, I found this recipe.  

I love eating cornbread right out of the oven with a little butter on top and a nice cup of coffee.  This is not a mix from a box, this is made from scratch and it's really yummy.  

Chicken Piccata

This Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian dish that is very light with a lemony sauce.  You can enjoy it with a side of roasted potatoes, root vegetables or mashed potatoes and a nice glass of wine.  This is an outstanding dish for any day of the week.

This is a very easy dish and it only takes a few minutes to cook.  The chicken is tender and the sauce is really, really good.  Great choice for a Monday night dinner.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half and pounded into cutlets

salt and black pepper

all-purpose flour

nonstick spray

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1/4 cup dry white wine

1 tsp mince garlic

1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tbsp drained capers

2 tbsp unsalted butter

fresh lemon slices

Season cutlets with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour.  Coat a saute pan with nonstick spray, add oil, and heat over medium-high.  Saute cutlets 2-3 minutes on one side.  Flip cutlets over and saute the other side, covered, 1-2 minutes.  Transfer cutlets to a warm platter; pour off fat from the pan.

Degraze pan with wine and add minced garlic.  Cook until garlic is slightly brown and liquid is nearly evaporated, about 2 minutes.  Add broth, lemon juice and capers.  Return cutlets to pan and cook on each side for 1 minute.  Transfer cutlets to warm plates. Finish sauce with butter and lemons.  Once butter melts, pour sauce over cutlets.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. 

Tip:  Turkey tenderloin makes a great substitute for chicken breast.

Source: Cuisine at Home

Strawberry Shortcake

As promised, here is a fantastic and delicious Strawberry Shortcake recipe. This dessert is perfect for Valentine's Day.  Make this for your significant other, and they will love you even more.  This is a really easy recipe to make and the results are impressive. 

The Week in Review

Happy Saturday!!

1.  It was a really cold week here in Georgia.  Even my babies (dogs) didn't want to go outside. Big Brother Cayman went outside one day and ran back inside.  Baby Caico didn't really care about it, he was running all over the place.  Baby Caico gained 7 ounces in 2 weeks, he is exactly 3 pounds now.  He is getting so big, too quick.

2.  Last Saturday my husband and I put away all of the Christmas decorations.  I love Christmas and decorating, but I hate to take decorations down.  Have you taken down your decorations?

Chicken Pasta

I wanted to eat pasta and not feel so bad about it.  I decided to make my pasta sauce and chicken as my protein.  I used a healthier carbohydrates pasta and by making my own sauce I was able to control the ingredients I was adding.

The final result, a delicious and somewhat healthy dish. 

Thai Pork Loin

Cold weather is not going to stop me from grilling.  I decided to make a Thai Pork Loin and I did it right on a stove top grill plate.  If you don't have one of these, I suggest you get one.  You can grill all winter without having to step out on your deck to do so.

By marinating the pork loin, it gave it a nice flavor and it's super tender too. Enjoy with a side of Brown Rice or this Uncle Ben's Long Grain and Wild Rice, Original Recipe.  You can find it in the supermarket in the rice isle.  Just follow the instructions on the box.  enjoy!!

Ingredients

2-3 pounds pork loin

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 thinly chopped shallots

2 garlic cloves minced

1 1/2 tsp minced ginger

2 tbsp brown sugar

3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce

2 tbsp fresh lime juice

2 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper

Rinse and pat dry the pork loin.  Place the pork loin in a plastic bag.  In a bowl add all of the other ingredients and mix well then pour into bag. Shake the bag to make sure the pork loin is covered with the marinade.  Marinade the pork loin over night or at least a couple of hours before grilling.  Place on a grill and cook on medium-low heat until well done.

Pan Seared Tilapia

Tilapia is a fish that I actually enjoy eating.  This Pan Seared Tilapia is nice and light and perfect for staying on a healthy path.  You can have it with brown rice, Greek or Caesar salad or you can have my favorite Black and Cannellini Bean Salad. 

I seasoned the fish with Penzeys Spices.  These spices are excellent and a little bit goes a long way.  If you don't have these spices, then use any fish spices you have in your pantry.  

The fish is flaky and moist and with a side of the beans salad, this dish is just perfect.  If you don't want to cook tilapia fillets you can substitute for flounder fillets.

Ingredients

3-4 ounce Tilapia or Flounder fillets

salt and pepper

Penzeys Spices-Northwoods Seasoning

Penzeys Spices-Bangkok Blend

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp butter

Season the fillets with salt, pepper, Penzeys Spices like Northwoods Seasoning and Bangkok Blend.  These spices are great for fish, but you can use any fish spices you have available.  Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet on medium heat then add the fillets.  Cook the fillets until they flake easily with a fork, about 4 minutes on each side.  Serve immediately.

Steak, Onions and Peppers Wrap

I wanted to start the new year eating healthier than I have been for a little while now.  I wanted to make something quick, delicious and figure friendly.  I made this Steak, Onions and Peppers Wrap using all low fat ingredients and the wrap is low carbohydrates too.

The Week in Review

Happy Saturday!!

1.  First let me just say Happy New Year!!  I hope this year brings us lots of love, compassion, understanding, peace and good health.

2.  I took a few days off from posting to the blog.  I had some homework to do being that I will start posting healthier dishes on Monday.  I've been going through many of my books and writing down some of my healthier recipes so that I can share them with you.   Since Valentines Day is next month, I will eventually post some chocolate recipes that you can make for your significant other on that special day.