Cooking for One

 Cooking Ideas  253 Responses »
May 142012
 

bigstock_grilled_tuna_and_salmon_skewer_27494087

For various reasons in our society it is now more common than ever to find people that only need to cook for themselves. Use this as a time to try new and exciting cuisines. I have found that it’s best when cooking for one to continue to use the amount of ingredients called for to serve 2-4, then you can freeze the leftovers and have individual meals for later. This allows you to enjoy the fruits of your effort several times. Remember you are what you eat; so allow this to be a time to spice up your mealtime. I think you’ll find this adventuresome spirit will translate into other areas of your life, too. Pre-mixed rubs and seasonings are an extremely easy and help keep life simple and food delicious.

So Buena Petit to you as you set off on your adventure.

Korean-Style Beef Bowl

 Beef, Easy Meals, Entrée, International Recipes, Top Recipes  260 Responses »
Apr 252012
 

It is difficult to get everyone in my family to agree on a favorite but this one makes the cut. It is one of the most requested recipes in our house. I know it says bowl but I serve it on a plate. My hubby has to have oriental coleslaw with it or he does not consider it complete.  It may not be authentic but it is delicious!

Ingredients

  • 2 green onions
  • 1 lb. skirt steak
  • 2 garlic cloves, pressed
  • 3 tbsp. soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp. sesame oil
  • 1 tsp. pepper
  • 1 tbsp. sugar
  • 1 tsp. vegetable oil
  • 1 c. uncooked jasmine rice
  • 2 medium carrots
  • Green beans or bean sprouts

Directions

Thinly slice green onions, place in bowl. Cut steak crosswise into 2 in. pieces. Slice into thin strips, cutting against the grain; add to bowl. Press garlic over beef. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, pepper and sugar; mix well. Cover and refrigerate. As beef marinates, make rice. Meanwhile, peel carrots to make long ribbons. Place in ice water. To finish steak, add vegetable oil to 12 in. skillet; heat over med-high 3 min. Add beef in single layer and cook undisturbed until brown. Stir in carrots and green beans or bean sprouts; cook until your desired doneness . Remove from heat. To serve, divide rice among bowls and top with beef and veggies.

 

Easter Menu Part 2

 Easter, Entertaining Ideas And Tips  439 Responses »
Apr 052012
 

I thought it might be helpful to suggest a sample menu for those of you who might be cooking for the holidays for the first time. I hope you’ll notice the variety in color and texture with each of the menus. For finger foods: spiced bacon twists, asparagus ham roll ups, deviled eggs, stuffed mushrooms, brie with apricot topping, chicken salad puffs, and citrus pound cake. For a brunch you might serve: spiced bacon twists; asparagus,brie, and parma ham crostini; applesauce oatmeal pancakes; bacon quiche; chicken salad puffs; and citrus pound cake. For dinner may I suggest: applesauce pork loin recipe, glazed orange carrots, never fail scalloped potatoes, and Easter pie. These menus vary different flavors and don’t focus too much on one ingredient in case you have guests that don’t like a particular food. And most of these menus will have you out of the kitchen in less than an hour to prepare the entire menu (not including cooking time). Let us know which of these have become your favorites. We’d love to hear. You’ll find the recipes on http://www.pamperedchef.com and http://www.tasteofhome.com 

Easter Menu

 Easter, Entertaining Ideas And Tips  202 Responses »
Apr 022012
 

 

Whether you are entertaining many friends or serving your family for Easter, here are some simple tips that have served me well over the years. There are three basic menus: finger foods, brunch, and dinner. Depending on the size of the group the menu can be scaled back. If you are serving finger foods or brunch it is best to have between 4-8 choices. For  dinner a main dish, 2 side dishes, and a dessert is enough. When choosing a menu try to remember to vary color and texture in your dishes. When the kids were little finger foods were a fun way for them to eat; but, if you have teens the dinner idea might be more filling!

For recipes try http://www.pamperedchef.com and http://www.tasteofhome.com