Friday Favorites

September 14, 2012 · by · 16 Comments

Friday’s Feature! 

Courtney from Women Living Well has some delicious applesauce cooking in her Crock Pot today…Ladies, this is a ” must make ” recipe for Fall.

Take the kids to the apple orchard {Field Trip!} and let them help peel the apples {Home Economics} Wohoo ! 

Friday’s Favorites!

Today we are featuring GLUTEN FREE recipes! These looks great girls!

{I recently tried Kale chips and was surprised at how good they were!}

Easy Dried Kale Chips

Made By: Mom Essentials

 Crustless Spinach Quiche

Made By: The Wholesome Life

Cauliflower Crust Pesto Pizza

Made By: The Humbled Homemaker

                                                            Inspired-Housewife: Cauliflower Crust Pesto Pizza

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship LINK UP!

Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, and/or posts of the season as you wish! All I ask is that you link back or simply place my button {located on my sidebar} onto your post. I will pick my top 3 each Friday and advertise. Thanks to those who PIN, TWEET, and FB!!!! I love making new friends {thanks to you!} 

Thanks for sharing what YOU have cooking!  



Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Food Allergy Friendly, Uncategorized ·

Frosted Grapes

September 12, 2012 · by · 12 Comments

{She got her inspiration from Pure Sugar.}

 

Ohhhh Yummm….

My sweet friend Katina brought me these amazing grapes last week and of course, I had to share. They are brilliant…seriously brilliant. Easy, somewhat nutritious {hey, there are worse things}, and addictive! My entire family gobbled them up. I *may* not have shared the last few in the bowl {sorry honey!}.

For those of us with food allergies- these are where it is AT! They satisfy that sweet tooth craving, you have got to try them!

Thank you SO much Katina!!!! What a blessing. I will definitely make these over and over.

Frosted Grapes
Prep time: 5 mins
Total time: 5 mins
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 lb of red seedless grapes
  • 1 3 oz package grape jell-O {not prepared}
  • Water
Instructions
  1. Rinse grapes in a colander and blot with paper towels {you want them a little wet, but not too wet}.
  2. Place 1/3 of Jell-O in a large Ziploc bag.
  3. Toss 1/3 of grapes in the Jell-O until covered.
  4. Place in bowl.
  5. Repeat 3 more times.
  6. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours {or even freeze} until ready to eat!
  7. YUmmmmmm

 

 

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly, Kiddos ·

Creator of All Things…{A special guest}

September 10, 2012 · by · 14 Comments

“I cry out to the God most high, to God who will fulfill His purpose in me.” ~ Psalm 57:2


Many of you may remember me talking about a very dear friend of mine, Mem {She has even guest posted some of her delicious recipes to Comfy!} Well,  this past Summer during our Ladies bible study, Mem shared a part of her testimony that left many of us that night in tears, speechless, and with renewed faith. Ohhh…if you all could have just been in that room that night! Still thinking about what she said, I asked her if she wouldn’t mind sharing it with my reading audience …she was more than willing to do so.

Mem has such a deep love for our Lord and for all people. Being a native of Thailand her heart aches for her homeland and for those who are still searching for “The Creator of All Things”.

{Our Ladies bible study this Summer- Mem is in the front, next to me. I’m so grateful for all the times she shared with our group this Summer-The Lord speaks through her in such a unique and pressing way….What a blessing her friendship is to me!} 

Here is her testimony….  

I was seven-years-old when my mother and I were without a place to live. We were Buddhists at the time, very poor, and had just been dispossessed of the jungle house in southern Thailand where we had been living. Not unlike many others in this country, we felt that our lives were controlled by forces that were bigger than ourselves. It wasn’t that either of us wanted to move in with my mother’s sister, but we had no other options. Thus it was that necessity obligated us to live with my aunt for two years—the two darkest years of my life. Not only was my aunt heavily involved in the occult, she was also mean-spirited and vindictive. Little could I have known just how deep her resentment was, nor how nefarious were the spiritual forces she served, which resided in her house.

My aunt and her husband regularly conducted séances, and many times I would hide close by in a corner to witness the terrifying phenomena that invariably accompanied these events. Sometimes my aunt and uncle would begin trembling violently as a demonic spirit would take possession of them, and they would then commence speaking in an unnatural voice.

Their occultic practices, however, were not just limited to séances. People were often brought to them for “healings,” and I saw miraculous phenomena that, had it not been so frightening, could have easily convinced me to follow in my aunt’s footsteps. The sick or injured victim would come in for a “healing” during which time either my aunt or uncle would lay hands on the individual and begin uttering some incantation in a language I could not understand, after which the “patient” would often go into convulsions, or fall to the floor at the touch of their hands. Afterwards, that same individual would leave fully recovered.

I remember one such healing performed on a victim of an automobile accident who left the house completely well. I also remember one who came hobbling into the house with a broken leg, unable to walk. By the time my aunt and uncle were finished, however, this same person stood up, expressed his amazement, and walked out of the house normally. People who were healed often departed praising my aunt and uncle saying, “You’re better than any doctor I ever went to.”

There was just one thing I couldn’t understand, however. The healings these people received never seemed to be permanent. After several days, their symptoms would recur and they would return only to be charged money again for a “remedial” treatment to get them feeling better and on their way again. Such occurrences left me puzzled after having witnessed the miraculous phenomena that I had seen earlier with my own eyes.

The most troubling aspect regarding living with my aunt during this time, however, was the palpable “presence” of the spirits that resided in their house. On more than one occasion did I hear footsteps in an adjacent room, only to discover when I raced around the corner to see who was there, that the room was completely empty. Regardless of whatever room I entered, I could feel their dark company, knowing somehow that they were watching me and that they disliked me. At times, I was convinced that I could even feel their malevolent presence brushing by me, taunting me, and reminding me that they were watching, that they knew who I was, and that they had a “right” to my soul.

On one occasion while living with my aunt I actually saw these demonic spirits at night in visions that left me absolutely terrified. The apparitions were vivid and macabre in the extreme, one of which extended a ghoulish tongue to ghastly lengths while engaging in acts of morbid dismemberment. One demonic specter made an ostentatious display of gouging out an eyeball while another tore out its insides in a highly visceral manner. Never before had my eyes ever beheld images even remotely resembling the chilling sights that paraded before me. Shaken, fevered, and soaked with perspiration, I sought refuge in the only place I could find, which was under my bed. Not until morning would I emerge covered with spider webs, dust, and filth.

Coincidently, this visitation occurred when my mother was out of the house, having decided the earlier to visit a relative for a couple of days. It was then, after I went to bed for the night, that I was awakened in terror by the apparitions before me. I began screaming hysterically, and my screams awakened my aunt who merely banged angrily on the wall between our rooms demanding that I stop crying.

“I’m so scared of these ghosts,” I finally managed to utter, sobbing uncontrollably and longing desperately for my mother.

“Go back to sleep, and don’t wake us up again or I’ll make you sleep outside.” This was no idle threat, yet it only exacerbated my fears. I desperately wanted my mother, yet there was no sympathy in this house, nor any attempt to show compassion.

“I miss my mother,” I sobbed. “Where is she?”

“She’s not here,” someone screamed. “She left you, and she’s not coming back.” I don’t know if this lie was intended to quell my crying, but I was almost paralyzed with fear. Never in my life have I felt such a tangible presence of evil. While vainly seeking sanctuary under my bed, I desperately prayed to Buddha, as well as to every idol and spirit I could think of, without relief. It was then that I made one last desperate appeal to One whom I had never before invoked.

“Oh, Creator of all things! Please help and deliver me.” I didn’t know by what other name to call such a “Creator of all things,” but a strange peace covered my heart and I finally fell asleep.

Oddly, such demonic experiences never occurred at any other time in my life. Of one thing I am certain, however: It is impossible that I could ever hate a place as much as that house. I learned something, however, that would serve as a vital reference point in my spiritual odyssey. The “gods” whose help I had invoked had merely shown their impotence when I sought their help, but the One whose name I did not even know—this “One” who had created all things—had extended grace to me. Thereafter, I prayed to Buddha less and to the “Creator of all things” more, and I hoped that someday He might reveal His identity.

I were truly in a spiritual battleground, and because I were far “behind enemy lines” at the time and had never known liberation, I knew no better. Appeasing the spirits was just one of the facts of life, and I accepted it as such. It had been to satisfy them that my mother had almost given me away to her sister years earlier when I was deathly sick as a little girl, and it had been only by the providential hand of grace that I had recovered in time. It was this deliverance that spared me from being given over as property to a practicing medium in a home that was controlled by these demonic spirits. I was slowly coming to realize that the “Creator of all things” was responsible for my protection. Why, and for what purpose? I did not know. These questions would remain unanswered for years, but the question as to the identity of this “Creator of all things” to whom I had been increasingly praying was about to be answered.

One day, after two years living with my aunt, my mother and I discovered that she had evicted us and had thrown our meager belongings out of the house. It was at this point in my life that my mother and I moved to Bangkok to stay with my oldest sister, Kali and the rest of my family. A few years later, Kali became a Christian, and claimed that at last she had found what she had been looking for in life, and I could see a noticeable change in her. She exhibited a kindness and gentleness that we had never before witnessed. When she shared the story of Jesus with us and invited us to pray to accept Christ, no one refused. I cannot judge the sincerity of the others in my family who prayed that day, but I know one thing as it pertains to myself: On that day I fell in love with Jesus and discovered at last the identity of the “Creator of all things,” to whom I had been praying. 

 

It was at this time in Mem’s testimony that every one of us women in the room needed a tissue. We kept imagining Mem as a small child, never knowing the name “Jesus”, yet praying and having faith in Him. Our loving and compassionate Father saw his little girl under that bed, covered in dust and cobwebs and revealed who He was and changed her life forever. Praise Jesus.

Thank you SO much Mem- you are a HUGE blessing in my life and in the lives of so many others. You are living a life “Well Done” my sweet friend. LOVE you! 

Mem has been on the radio series “Unshackled” and is in the process of writing a book. Please feel free to ask her any questions you may have, she is more than happy to answer them.  

Signature
Filed Under: Devotionals, Uncategorized ·

Friday Favorites!

September 7, 2012 · by · 21 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!

Thank you SO very much for your prayers for my hubby and our family. He is doing great {although he will be doing much better in 3 months when he can walk on his own again}.This is definitely a “season” of life for us, but I am glad I can be here for him {and I’m sure he’s also glad about that, hehehe}.

A Special THANK YOU!

I just wanted to take a moment and say how very grateful I feel to be the recipient of meal ministries this week. First, my mom who made us a delicious spaghetti dinner… my dear friend, mentor and neighbor Julie made us a delicious chicken and gluten free pasta dish, chicken pockets, and strawberry kabobs…My incredibly thoughtful friend Katina brought us delicious Chili, frosted grapes {which I will be posting}, and chocolate chip cookie balls…My sweet friend Melissa brought us some incredibly tasty {and very healing} bone broth and beef soup with rice and veggies and baked oatmeal, and last but not least some great friends who my husband coaches for {our sons are buddies} brought us lasagna and the most ahhhmazing oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.

Thank you all SO SO SO much for sharing God’s love with the Nehrenz family this week!!!!! You don’t know how much it meant to us.  You made a very difficult week much easier…We love you all and are so grateful!!! 

Being on the other end of meal ministry made me realize even more what a blessing it is. 

So, let’s have a look at what we have cooking today….

Courtney from Women Living Well is featuring these delicious and EASY Pecan rolls. Ohhhh you have just got to try these out- perfect for a cool Fall evening or Sunday morning treat before church with the family.

Top 3 Picks!

Oooooo……I LOVE to see what YOU have cookin!!!! You girls are Coooooommmmmmfy! Wohoo!!!  

Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Made By: Mommy in Suburbia

 

Crock Pot Apple Butter

Made By: What Joy is Mine

 

Hummus and Veggie Focaccia Sandwiches

Made By: Simply….this, that and the other.

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship LINK-UP!

Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, and /or posts of the season. All I ask is that you either place my button {located on my side bar} or link back on your post! I am SO grateful to my linker upers and also to all of you who Pin, Tweet, and FB about Feasting in Fellowship Fridays! Have a blessed weekend!



Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Classic French Toast

September 5, 2012 · by · 8 Comments

Here it is. Plain and simple. Classic French Toast. My family’s favorite breakfast.

I’ve tried many, many…{oh the many!} breakfast recipes on my children and this one, hands down gets gobbled up the quickest. This past weekend my kidos were so excited to wake up to the smell of this hot off the griddle…theres nothing that gets them out of bed quicker!  Serve with butter, warm syrup, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Mmmmmm…there is a reason this dish is on every breakfast restaurant menu! 

Not only is this delicious….it’s easy to make, great for guests, a use for day- old bread, and it freezes well! Just place individual French Toasts in glad bags, freeze, when ready -pop em right into the toaster! 

I purchase my bread from a restaurant called “Menches” nearby, but any Texas Toast style bread will do! Ohhh how I miss bread, I can smell the yeast through this computer screen. Ahhhh, one of my favorite smells!!!!! Do they bottle that?

So simple…Eggs, milk and vanilla. Pierce each yolk, then whisk.  I use 1 egg per 1 slice of thick bread. If you are using regular sliced bread 1 egg per 2 slices will do.

I use a 9×13 pan.

Lay your bread in the egg mixture and turn to coat both sides.

Butter your skillet or griddle {set on medium to medium/high heat} and lay your french toast out…sprinkle with cinnamon.

Flip and let cook until golden brown on both sides. You really want to have your heat set on a medium-medium/high heat instead of a high heat. Your egg batter is absorbed into the bread and you want to make sure it cooks. If you have your heat on high, you will get crispy french toast on the outside and soggy on the inside {yuck}….so, keep it on med to med/high heat.

Serve with warm syrup, butter and a spindle of powdered sugar!

{you may also serve with cinnamon and sugar, blueberries, bananas, strawberries, etc} 

 

 

Classic French Toast
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 8 mins
Total time: 18 mins
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 12 slices Texas-style bread
  • 12 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • butter {for melting in skillet}
  • cinnamon {for sprinkling}
  • {butter, syrup, and powdered sugar for topping}
Instructions
  1. In a 9×13 pan beat eggs, milk and vanilla together.
  2. Coat both sides of each piece of bread with egg mixture.
  3. Melt butter in a skillet or on a griddle heated to medium-medium/high heat.
  4. Place coated bread on skillet and sprinkle with cinnamon. Let cook for appx 4 mins until golden brown. Flip and repeat.
  5. Serve with butter and warm syrup!
Signature
Filed Under: Breads, Breakfast, Kiddos, Learning the Basics ·

Courtney’s Autumn Apple Crumb Pie

September 4, 2012 · by · 6 Comments

 

Oh, I am SO excited!!! I have my wonderful friend Courtney from Women Living Well here today sharing her favorite Fall recipe! I can almost smell it baking in the oven now…AHHHhhhh.

Ladies, If you are off to the apple orchard with the children, you have got to put this on your “to make” list! It’s simple enough to make with the whole family…. Thank you so much Courtney {and Kristen!}

 

Courtney says:

So I made my first homemade apple pie of the season for friends (and if I don’t say so myself) – it was DELISH!!!

This is my sister Kristen’s recipe and you have to give it a try!!! The filling is simple, quick and SOOOO good! And the crumb topping mmmmm… girls now we are talking comfort food!!!
Two EASY steps and that is IT! WOW!

Cut a warm piece of apple pie and serve it with a bountiful scoop of vanilla ice cream and savor the flavor of fall!

Thanks again Courtney! My family is going to LOVE this! 

Courtney’s Autumn Apple Crumb Pie
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 45 mins
Total time: 1 hour
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1 premade pie shell {Marie Callenders}
  • 6-7 cups peeled and sliced granny smith apples
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 tbsp butter {melted}
  • 1/2 cup butter {softened-microwave 15 seconds}
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup flour
Instructions
  1. Mix apples, sugar, cinnamon, and 1 1/2 tsp melted butter together.
  2. Place apple filling into pre-made pie shell.
  3. In another bowl cut together {with two knives} 1/2 cup butter, brown sugar and flour.
  4. Sprinkle crumb topping on top of filling.
  5. Bake in a 400 oven for 45-55 mins until bubbly.
Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Kiddos, Seasonal, Uncategorized ·

Friday’s Favorites

August 31, 2012 · by · 16 Comments

 

Happy Friday Ladies!

Wow, has our family had a busy week.

My husband had reconstruction on his ankle today…it was a lot bigger surgery than I expected! So, needless to say I will be taking good care of him until he is “back on his feet” again. It is going to be a long 3 months, but I am just so thankful to be healthy and able to serve my family. Our girls have also been quick to help take care of Daddy…oh, how sweet. As I walked into the bedroom there they were- busy working on him with their play doctor set { he was also wearing my wedding tiara on his head -hehehe!!!} What a great sport…we will laugh at this in a few years.  God is SO good!

So what do we have cooking today? Let’s see…. 

My dear friend Courtney from Women Living Well was in North Carolina TONIGHT! {Did you get to watch the LIVE “Unglued” Webcast she participated in this evening with Lysa Terkeurst ,Kelly Stamps and Dr. Tim Clinton?} I couldn’t be more proud of her and all she is doing for the Lord and for women…Wohoo!!!

Being a girl who wears many hats {and wears them well!}, she most certainly did not forget to cook up a little something at home for her hubby…check out these Loaded Nachos she has under the broiler! Mmmmm….

{If the link does not take you to Loaded Nachos please check back a little later….}


Friday’s Top 3 Picks!

I love to see what YOU have cookin…and best of all I love bragging about you! Keep up the GREAT work ladies! These look delicious…

French Toast Casserole

Made By: Chocolate, Chocolate, and more…

 

Slow Cooked Beef Burritos

Made By: Posed Perfection

 

Flourless Maple Peanut Butter Oat Cookies

Made By: A {Modern} Christian Woman

It’s a FEASTING in FELLOWSHIP Link-UP! 

Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, or seasonal posts as you wish. All I ask is either you place my button {located on my sidebar} onto your post, or link back. Thank you all so much for sharing your gifts with me…keep serving, my friends! Love to YOU!

As always thank you to all who tweet, FB and Pin!!! 



Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Overnight Crockpot Oatmeal

August 29, 2012 · by · 30 Comments

This morning I had some of my close mom friends from our children’s school over after drop-off. I whipped up an easy ham and cheese quiche, cut and washed some berries, and had this delicious oatmeal already baking overnight in the crockpot. May I just say…. it was so much easier knowing that one of my main dishes was finished even before I woke up!

We had a great time over breakfast and coffee….we live in such a blessed community.

Two tips for GREAT crockpot oatmeal- Use steel cut oats and a water bath! If you have made Crock Pot oatmeal before, did you notice it crusts on the sides and sometimes browns on the bottom? The water bath prevents all of that nonsense. 😉 

*I use gluten-free oats, but you may use any kind you wish.

In a casserole dish add oats, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon.

Fill Crock Pot up half way with water, then place the casserole dish inside and cover. Turn on low heat overnight and bake 8-10 hours.

In the morning you’ll wake up to the smell of cinnamon and have delicious baked oatmeal waiting for you.

Add milk, pecans, raisins and an extra dollop of brown sugar and sprinkle of cinnamon. Mmmm…

Thanks to my friends who shared their morning with me! Love you girls!  

 

Overnight Crockpot Oatmeal
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 8 hours
Total time: 8 hours 5 mins
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 2 cups steel cut oats {I use Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free}
  • 6 cups milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Enough water to fill Crock Pot 1/2 way.
  • “Fixins” and extra milk as desired.
Instructions
  1. In a casserole dish add all ingredients except water.
  2. Fill Crock Pot with water.
  3. Place casserole dish inside Crock Pot.
  4. Cover and set on low for 8-10 hours {overnight}
  5. Add your fixins in the morning {brown sugar, cinnamon, pecans, raisins, cinnamon …pour on additional milk to desired consistence}
Signature
Filed Under: Breakfast, Cooking For A Crowd, Food Allergy Friendly, Uncategorized ·

Jen’s Gluten-Free Goodies!

August 27, 2012 · by · 7 Comments

 

Wow!!! One would NEVER know that these delicious little balls of yumminess were gluten free and healthy to eat! Thanks to my dear friend Jennifer for bringing these over for our last Ladies Summer Study!

{There were a few left over and I put them in my children’s lunches the next day….they LOVED them!!!}

Some of my awesome friends gathered together! Love you girls!

{Jen is the beauty in green….she is COMFY in the kitchen for SURE!}

Chocolate Chip Cookie Balls

{my favorite}

1 cup oatmeal

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/3 cup honey

1 cup coconut

1/2 cup ground flax

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

1 tsp vanilla

Mix together. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Roll into balls.

Skinny Monkey Cookies

{brown in color}

3 bananas

2 cups oats

1/4 cup peanutbutter

1/4 cup cocoa

1/3 cup applesauce

1 tsp vanilla

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Mash bananas in a large bowl, then stir in remaining ingredients. Let batter stand for approximately 20 minutes, then drop by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 10-12 minutes.

Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly, Kiddos, Uncategorized ·

Friday’s Favorites

August 24, 2012 · by · 17 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!
It’s cooling down in my neck of the woods…and am I ever excited. Ooooo I just love the thought of autumn knocking on my door! The warm sun, cool breeze, beautiful colors and yummmy comfort food. Speaking of, Courtney from Women Living Well is sharing a delicious side dish perfect for fall…Sweet Potato Home Fries. Mmmmm……Enjoy.

Friday’s Favorites!

It’s Pizza Day!!!! Wohoo!!!!

Hope these recipes will help you have a great Friday Pizza night with your families!

The Ultimate Pizza Crust

Made By: This Glorious Day

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza

Made By: A {Modern}Christian Woman

Angry Bird Pizza

Made By: Musings of a Minister’s Wife

And a Gluten Free Option…..

Potato Spinach Pie

Made By: On The Homefront

recipe box, prudent living

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Friday {Link-UP}!

Please link up as many recipes, Christian articles and posts of the season. All I ask is that you place my button {located on my side bar} onto your post…or you may link back.

Thank you so much for sharing your world with me. Another thank you to those who FB, tweet and Pin!  



Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Honey Balsamic Chicken over Rice {Allergy Friendly!}

August 22, 2012 · by · 17 Comments

My hubby was my “guinea pig” this week, bravely trying a more “feminine” dish. To his surprise, he loved it! After he scrapped the last piece of rice off of his dish, I asked “So, did you like your dinner?” He smiled and said “Nope…not at all, I think I’ll have to try it again to make sure though…”

This dinner is allergy friendly, sweet and savory, and all together delish! {My favorite? The sauce….it’s sooo good}.

 

I always marinate my chicken in something. Today it was in Italian dressing {I do love Newman’s Own Olive Oil and Vinegar}. These are organic thinly sliced chicken breasts. Now ladies…you know I am not picky about things. But, I am with my chicken. It must be organic. Have you noticed how hugondous chicken breasts have become? It’s because they are pumped up with steroids and hormones! They are tough, have less flavor, and do not cook as evenly as the smaller organic chicken breasts. Moving on….

After the chicken is finished marinating add a sprinkle of salt, pepper and Thyme. Don’t add too much Thyme..just a little goes a long way. But, this is what gives you that savory taste…this combined with the other flavors makes a delicious marriage.

*Tip…I use grill foil on my grill. It prevents my chicken from sticking and clean up is a cinch!

Combine equal parts of balsamic and honey on the stove top and let simmer, stirring constantly. If you want to get fancy…it’s called a “reduction”. Some of the liquid evaporates, causing the mixture to thicken and have a bolder flavor. Mmmmm….my favorite part!

Cook rice according to directions. Place grilled chicken on top of rice, pour reduction over top and garnish with pecan halves, feta cheese, dried cranberries and chick peas. Mmmm…my mouth is watering again!

 

Honey Balsamic Chicken over Rice {Allergy Friendly!}
Prep time: 30 mins
Cook time: 15 mins
Total time: 45 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 4 cups cooked brown rice {cook according to package directions}
  • 2 cups italian dressing
  • salt, pepper, thyme {sprinkle sparingly onto each chicken breast}
  • 4 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 4 Tbsp honey
  • 1 cup feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup pecans
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chick peas
Instructions
  1. Marinate chicken breasts in Italian dressing for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Sprinkle chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
  3. Grill appx 5-7 mins on each side until done.
  4. Make brown rice according to package directions. Set aside.
  5. Pour balsamic and honey into a small sauce pan, bring to a simmer on med-high heat and stir until it thickens {about 3-5 mins}.
  6. Place rice on dish, top with chicken, ladle on sauce, and garnish with chick peas, feta cheese and cranberries.
Signature
Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Seasonal ·

Back to School Lunch Box Ideas! {Kabob LOVE}

August 20, 2012 · by · 1 Comment

School is BACK in session…what a bittersweet time for us moms. It’s SO hard to let go of those warm summer days, sleeping in, going swimming, not being on a schedule, and the list goes on. But, it’s so exciting to see another year come knocking…. reuniting with school friends, new learning experiences, projects, field trips… I just love seeing my children grow!

With back to school, comes back to packing lunches! This year I want to add some healthier varieties.

Here are some “Comfy” lunch ideas that I will be making in my children’s lunch boxes this year! 

I suggest using coffee stirs or popsicle sticks for kabobs so not to cause injuries!

 

Club Sandwich Kabobs

 {Turkey, bacon, ham, cheese, pickles, and bread on a popsicle stick}

Courtesy of Family Corner

kiddie kabos, banana with sprinkles

Banana Bites

{Bananas dipped in vanilla yogurt and sprinkles}

Courtesy of Parents Magazine

 

hot dog kabobs

Hotdog Kabobs 

{Grapes, cubed cheese and hotdogs- you can also use trail bologna for the lunch box!}

Courtesy of A Southern Fairytale

Fruit and Cheese Kabobs 

{Watermelon, strawberries, pineapple, grapes, cheese and turkey}

Courtesy of Fun Family Crafts

 

0206_kids_gtsandsushi.jpg

Sandwich Sushi 

{Bread, cucumbers, carrots, cream cheese}

*I know, I know- not a kabob, but SO worth sharing. 

Courtesy of Martha Stewart

 

Have a GREAT start to a new school year everyone! 

Signature
Filed Under: Kiddos, Uncategorized ·

Friday’s Favorites {Link-up!}

August 17, 2012 · by · 56 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!


Make sure to join me over at Women Living Well today where I share how to make these Easy Beef Taquitos…they are great for an appetizer or a meal {and best yet? They are allergy friendly!}

Friday’s Favorites

BACK TO SCHOOL!!!!

Cottage Cheese Lamb

Made By: Creative Kids Snacks

Disney’s “Up” Lunch

Made By: Creative Kids Snacks

Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting

Made By: Queen of Savings

It’s another Feasting in Fellowship Link UP!

Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, or posts of the season….all I ask is that you either place my button {located on my sidebar} or link back to Comfy in the Kitchen on your post. Thanks for participating…it is SO great to have you here. I truly appreciate it! 

A SPECIAL thanks to all who FB, Tweet and Pin!!! 



Signature
Filed Under: Food Allergy Friendly, Uncategorized ·

Steamed Broccoli with Cheddar Cheese Sauce {gluten-free}

August 14, 2012 · by · 12 Comments

 

 

Broccoli is one of my family’s favorite veggies {yea!} and this recipe is NO exception! This recipe omits flour and adds cornstarch for a gluten free option.

Throw those cheese sauce packets away girls- making it homemade is just as easy {or I wouldn’t do it, hehe}. 

Rinse fresh broccoli in a colander and steam for appx 10 mins.  

Grate cheese and set aside. 

Melt butter then add corn starch { if you are using flour, double the amount -cornstarch is twice as powerful} This will make a “paste” that will give your sauce a nice creamy texture.

Add milk. 

Stir until it thickens…

Add cheese {you can always add a little extra milk if your sauce gets too thick}.

Yummm.

Pour cheese sauce over freshly steamed broccoli {or cauliflower}. A tasty {and gluten-free} side dish that everyone in the family will enjoy!

Steamed Broccoli with Cheddar Cheese Sauce {gluten-free}
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 12 mins
Total time: 22 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 2 cups broccoli {fresh- steamed}
  • 5 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoons corn starch {if using flour 2 Tbsp}
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese {freshly grated}.
  • salt/pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Rise and steam broccoli.
  2. In saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
  3. Gradually stir in cornstarch to make a paste.
  4. Add milk and stir until smooth and thickens.
  5. Add cheese and stir until melted.
  6. Add salt and pepper as desired.
  7. Pour sauce over broccoli
Notes

You can always add a little more milk at anytime if sauce thickens too much.

 

 

Signature
Filed Under: Food Allergy Friendly, Sides ·

Cream Cheese and Fruit Cookie Cups

August 13, 2012 · by · 7 Comments

 

If you are looking for a simple, yet “show stopping” recipe..look no further. My very dear friend Megan brought these Ahhhmazing cookie fruit cups to bible study last week and were they ever a hit! Of course, I had to do it again…. I got out my camera and started taking pictures {all my friends give me grace in this area-their crazy friend who takes pictures of food, hehe}.

Thanks Megs! Enjoy, Ladies!

 

 

 
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 12 mins
Total time: 22 mins
Serves: 12
Ingredients
  • 1 package of pre-made sugar cookie dough
  • 1 package of strawberries
  • 1-2 kiwis
  • 1 package of blueberries
  • 1 8oz block of creme cheese
  • 1 container of cool whip.
Instructions
  1. Cut cookie dough into 3/4 in balls.
  2. Place in muffin container. (It works best if you use muffin cups sprayed with cooking spray).
  3. Flatten out the dough so that it forms to the shape of the muffin pan. (It does not need to cover the whole cup, as it will expand when it is baked.) Follow baking directions on the sugar cookies.
  4. With a mixer, mix together the cream cheese and cool whip.
  5. Keep refrigerated.
  6. Cut up the fruit into small pieces.
  7. When the cookie cups are cool, remover the liner.
  8. Place a spoonful of the dip in each cup and then add fruit.

 

Signature
Filed Under: Dessert ·

Friday’s Favorites {and a LINK-UP!}

August 10, 2012 · by · 20 Comments


Want to know my secret to getting dinner done while trying to keep my children happy? Come visit me over at Women Living Well, where a little “tidbit tray” saves the day….

 

Friday’s Favorites!

On FaceBook today I asked YOU what suggestions you may have for all those delicious veggies that are ready for picking! Thank you for all of your delicious recipes! Here are some more great ideas from my fellow bloggers for tomatoes, squash, and kale. Enjoy!

Thanks to all who linked up last week!!!! 

 

 

Summer Squash Soup

Made By: Cooking on the Front Burner

Fresh Tomato Basil Pizza

Made By: A {modern} Christian Woman

Freezing Kale

Made By: Life’s Abundant Adventures

 

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship LINK-UP! 

Please link up as many recipes, Christian articles, and/or posts of the Season! {Would LOVE to see some more “fresh from the garden” recipes!!!!} All I ask is that you place my button {located on my sidebar} onto your post. 

Thanks to ALL who FB, Tweet, and Pin!!!! 



Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Classic Homemade Lemonade

August 7, 2012 · by · 6 Comments

 

Who doesn’t love a nice cool glass of freshly squeezed lemonade on a hot Summer’s day? Sure, you can make the mix {I’m okay with that, really!} But, nothing takes the place of homemade. This recipe is easy and delicious~ I just couldn’t pass up sharing it with you. Enjoy often with friends and family…

Just 3 ingredients. Lemons, water and sugar. This is hot water with sugar disolving.

I have a very basic juicer that does a great job….

My little girl LOVES to help….so sweet!

She’s such a good big sister… teaching her little sister how to juice lemons 😉

Look at all of that freshly squeezed lemon juice! So refreshing!!!

Add it to the hot sugar water, then add cold water, ice and lemon slices.

Enjoy! Ahhhh…..

Freshly Squeezed Lemonade
Prep time: 10 mins
Total time: 10 mins
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 cup hot tap water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • Juice from 5-6 lemons
  • 1 lemon sliced
  • 6 cups cold water
  • 1 cup ice
Instructions
  1. Stir hot water and sugar together, let dissolve.
  2. Juice 5-6 lemons and slice an extra lemon to place in lemonade.
  3. Add lemon juice and sliced lemon to sugar water, add cold water and ice. Stir.
  4. Serve cold!
Signature
Filed Under: Beverages, Food Allergy Friendly, Kiddos, Learning the Basics, Uncategorized ·

Friday’s Favorites

August 3, 2012 · by · 11 Comments

Happy Friday Everyone!

This Summer is flying by…my, oh my, it's August!

We still have time for more delicious Summer dishes; Here are the Friday's favorites….

Featured Recipe:

Join me over at Women Living Well where my sweet friend Courtney is serving up "The Incredible, Edible…..DIRT!" {This is actually my husband's favorite, hehe} Alas, for kids and grown-ups alike you will have a winning dessert.

Friday's Favorites!

Freezing Fresh Corn

Made By: Mamal Diane

Ladies, do this!!! You will be SO glad you did when your corn is "Summer fresh" on Thanksgiving. Scoop up those fresh ears at your local farm or farmer's market {bi-color is my favorite}

 

Caprese {easy} Salad

Made By: Cooking on the Front Burner

 

Homemade Twix Bars

Made By: Steak N Potatoes Kinda Gurl 

 

Feasting in Fellowship LINK-UP! 

Please link up as many of your favorite recipes, Christian posts, and/or posts of the season as you like! All I ask is that you 1. Place my button {located on my side bar} onto your post. OR 2. Link back to me by placing "linking up with Comfy in the Kitchen" at the bottom of your post.

Thank you all so very much for sharing your delicious recipes on Comfy. I LOVE showing you off! I always have to give a shout out to those who tweet, pin and FB about Comfy in the Kitchen…it's always nice to have new friends! Much love, Janelle

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Nikki’s Lemon Bundt Cake

August 2, 2012 · by · 4 Comments

So, my friend Nikki shows up at bible study with this amazing looking bundt cake…as if that wasn’t enough to get my gluten free mouth watering, she began pouring on this molten buttery-lemony glaze!!! I had to ladies…I just had to…I got my camera right out and started taking pictures. LOL {thought I was going to take a bite didn’t ya?} Although I did not get to share in this delicious treat- all the ladies at study LOVED it…and Ohhhh did it look and smell GOOD!

I knew this recipe HAD to have pudding in it! I just KNEW it! Look at that!

Thank you Nikki!!! Love you, my funny, sweet, beautiful, down to earth {and “comfy”} friend!!!!

Nikki’s Lemon Bundt Cake


Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 40 mins
Total time: 50 mins
Serves: 10
Ingredients
  • Lemon Bundt Cake
  • Ingredients
  • 1 (18.25 ounce) package lemon cake mix
  • 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant lemon pudding mix
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine dry cake and pudding mixes, eggs, water and oil. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
  2. Pour into a greased and floured 10-in. fluted tube pan.
  3. Bake at 350 degrees F for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
  4. Cool on a wire rack for 6-8 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, for glaze, combine butter and orange juice in a small bowl; stir in confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
  6. Remove cake from pan to a serving platter.
  7. Cool completely. Slowly drizzle with glaze
Signature
Filed Under: Dessert ·

Jennifer’s Sneaky Moo-less Chocolate Pie

August 1, 2012 · by · 5 Comments

Ohhhh Ladies {especially ones with dairy intolerances} do I have a fun recipe for YOU! It comes right from our Ladies bible study from my very dear friend Jennifer. I quickly came to find out how comfy she was in her kitchen by all the delicious snacks she’s prepared for us on Wednesday evenings!  The treat she is sharing with us today, “Sneaky Moo-less Chocolate Pie” amazed me so much, I just HAD to post it! 

There is a *secret ingredient that you would NEVER guess {even after taking a bite!}

So, shhhhhh….don’t say a word. The kids won’t know they are eating a protein packed snack!

Thank you so much Jennifer, love you!

Mmmm…..

Here they are in adorable little chocolate dessert cups! Beautiful and Yummy!!!!

Sneaky MooLess Chocolate Pie
Prep time: 10 mins
Total time: 10 mins
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1# silken tofu (I use light and get it at Beilers or Acme)(drained*)
  • 13oz of chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup coffee (brewed and cooled)
  • 1 TBSP honey
  • 1tsp vanilla
Instructions
  1. Melt chocolate and coffee together in microwave.
  2. Put tofu, honey and vanilla in the food processor.
  3. Once the chocolate is melted add it in the food processor.
  4. Whirl it around for a couple minutes. Be patient, it takes like 3 minutes or so to get all the little chunks of tofu broke down.
  5. Put into dessert cups or pour into a chocolate pie crust.
  6. Chill for a couple hours.
  7. So good.
  8. *I buy the Mori Nu brand of tofu and it does not need drained.
  9. I have used mint flavoring instead of coffee (just a few drops) and it makes a chocolate mint pie. I have used raspberry chocolate chips and that will make a raspberry chocolate pie. The possibilities are endless. Enjoy!
Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly ·

Friday’s Favorites {and a Link-UP!}

July 27, 2012 · by · 20 Comments

Happy Friday!
There is a lot cooking today…feast your eyes on these amazing recipes….

Friday’s Feature

My friend Courtney from Women Living Well  has whipped up a batch of these “Easiest Donut’s Ever“! Wow….are these amazing and incredibly simple {3 ingredients!}.

 

Friday’s Favorites!

Flourless Fudge Cookies

Made By: Modern Christian Woman 

{She also makes flourless Peanut Butter Cookies!}

*Thanks for the gluten-free options Stephanie!

Perfect Iced Coffee

Made By: Cheerios and Lattes

*Great tip Mackenzie! 

Mediterrenean Chickpea Salad

Made By: The Humbled Homemaker 

It’s a FEASTING IN FELLOWSHIP Friday LINK-UP!

I LOVE to see what YOU have cooking! Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, and/or posts of the season. All I ask is that you place my button {Located on my sidebar} onto your post. Thank you for tweeting, FBing and Pinning!!!

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Food Allergy Friendly ·

Chip Chop Ham Sandwiches {Isaly’s}

July 25, 2012 · by · 25 Comments

Old fashioned deli counter
{old fashioned deli photo credit}

So, we were in Hilton Head vacationing some time ago. Needing groceries, I drove up to Bi-lo {unfamiliar territory} with my list in hand and headed toward the deli. “Can I help you Miss?” The nice lady behind the counter asked. “Sure, I will have a pound of Chip Chop and a pound of Baby Swiss please!” I said cheerfully. “Uhhh…a pound of what?” She asked back with a perplexed look on her face. “Chip chop and swiss please”, I replied in a louder voice {thinking she didn’t hear me}. Oh, she heard me alright…she just didn’t understand a word I was saying. She started cracking up and asked me what on earth “Chip Chop” was?!! To me, she was asking what water was, or what bread was….Chip Chop was…..Chip Chop? How do I explain this?! hahaha. Then it dawned on me…this  term that I have been so accustomed to using my entire life was a regional thing. Not only that, it was a pretty silly sounding and I was throwing around like it was nothing! We had quite a laugh and of course, she threw out “Betcha call it Pop too, hu!?” Yeppers.

Isaly’s , an old fashioned restaurant-convenient store-ice cream parlor, was one of my  hometown’s only restaurants for a very long time..They were and still are well known for their “Chip Chop” ham….it’s a seasoned ham sliced super thin.

Here is a very simple and traditional way to make these sandwiches {mom made them all the time}.The pictures below don’t show actual “chip chop”… to save some fat grams, I ask the deli for a maple ham “chipped”But, if you live in the area, go ahead and try the real deal 🙂

Super simple….I use Hawaiian sweet rolls, Islays BBQ, Chipped ham {or Chip Chop} and baby swiss {or any cheese of your liking- cheddar is great too}

{Woot! I ate mine on an Udi’s gluten free bun! }

Directions…easy peasy! If you don’t have Isalys sold in your area, no worries- you can use your favorite BBQ sauce.  
Add ham and BBQ sauce and heat in a pan. You can also do this in a crock pot and let it sit on warm!
Open up rolls and place cheese and BBQ ham on top and broil quickly.
Add some corn on the cob, a salad and some fresh watermelon and you have yourself a quick fix for a Summer dinner!
Chip Chop Ham Sandwiches {Isaly’s}
Author: Isalys
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 10 mins
Total time: 20 mins
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 16 oz jar Isalys BBQ Sauce
  • 1 1/3 lb Chip Chop Ham
  • 12 slider buns
  • 1/2 lb swiss or cheddar cheese
  • {pickles optional}
Instructions
  1. Saute ham with BBQ sauce in a large skillet.
  2. Place cooked ham and cheese onto slider buns-broil quickly.
  3. Serve hot!
Notes

You may also put together ham and BBQ sauce in a crockpot and heat on low for 4 hours- stirring every so often. This is great for after church!

Signature
Filed Under: Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly, Wraps ·

Scotcharoos

July 23, 2012 · by · 10 Comments

OH, WOW…if you like Rice Crispy Treats, you are going to LOVE Scotcharoos. My wonderful Mother-in-Law gets credit for this delicious recipe. These gooey goodnesses are a staple at our family gatherings….and rightly so. They please the adults as much as the kids {try to have just one- it won’t happen…you will be baaaaack.}

Here’s “Grandma Puppies” with our little guy. Oh, I just love her…she is the kind of grandma that has a bedroom set aside at her home for our kids….with bunk beds. She reads, paints, plays catch, lets em stay up late, makes finger jell-o, captures the little things they say, brags with photos, catches lightning bugs, and makes….Scotcharoos.  Thanks for being “that” kind of Grandma, Kathy. Our kids are truly blessed. I Love you!!!!

 

 

Scotcharoos
Author: All-Recipes
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 15 mins
Total time: 30 mins
Serves: 15
Ingredients
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups peanut butter
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 6 cups rice crispy cereal
  • 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup butterscotch chips
Instructions
  1. Butter a 9×13 inch pan.
  2. Place a large pot on the stove on med-high heat. Add corn syrup, sugar, and peanut butter. Stir, peanut butter will melt. Bring to a boil.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in cereal.
  4. Pour in prepared 9×13 pan.
  5. Place chocolate and butterscotch chips in a medium sized microwaveable bowl. Microwave for 1 min and stir, microwave 30 more seconds and stir.
  6. Spread melted chocolate on top of bars and let cool.
  7. Cut into squares.
Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Kiddos, Uncategorized ·

Friday’s Favorites!

July 20, 2012 · by · 15 Comments


Raising a family and having a ministry is not always easy…

come visit me over on The Better Mom where I share with you how cooking for others works into my busy life…

Friday’s Favorites!

Chicken Tzatziki

Made By: My Judy the Foodie

Corn Dog Muffin Pops

Made By: Inspired By Family 

Peach Cobbler {In a bag}

Made By: Simple…..this, that and the other. 

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Link-UP!

Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, and/or posts of the season as you wish, all I ask is that you place my button {located on my side bar} onto your post. Thank you all so much for sharing, FBing, tweeting, and pinning!

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Country Style BBQ Ribs

July 18, 2012 · by · 15 Comments

If you are intimidated by the sound of this recipe…stop right there, take a deep breath and let me convince you…..it’s easy. I made these ribs tonight for the family and they ate them like they were going out of style! You {and especially your hubby} are going to love these. 

Make “rub” combining brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Put all ingredients in a large Ziploc and shake each rib coating it with the rub.

Place ribs on a foiled lined baking sheet. 

Preheat oven to 275. Cover ribs with foil tightly and bake on the middle rack for 2 hours. {You can see all the juices that baked off of these ribs…so, nope- you don’t have to add a thing extra! }The smell of my home after these were finished baking was amazing!  

Mmmm….Love Sweet Baby Rays!

Heat up the grill to med-high heat. Place grill foil on the grill and add the ribs. Baste with Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce. Grill approximately 8 mins per side.

Finished! Time for dinner! 

Take a look at how these just flaked off of the bone…tender and juicy! 

Time for dinner everyone!

Dig in!

Hey you…Mom saw that, give you sister back her corn! lol.

Country Style BBQ Ribs
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 2 hours 16 mins
Total time: 2 hours 21 mins
Serves: 5
Ingredients
  • 10 Country Style Ribs {These are individual Ribs-not on a slab}
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 Tbsp salt
  • 2 tsp pepper
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce {your choice, I like Honey BBQ}
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 275.
  2. Make Rub in a large Ziploc bag.
  3. Add each rib individually, shaking the bag and coating the ribs.
  4. Place ribs on a foil lined baking sheet and cover and seal with foil.
  5. Bake for 2 hours on the middle rack.
  6. Heat grill on med-high heat.
  7. Place grill foil on grill.
  8. Add ribs and baste with BBQ sauce. Grill for 8 mins, turn, baste and grill for another 8 mins.

 

Signature
Filed Under: Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly ·

Friday’s Favorites

July 13, 2012 · by · 16 Comments

Happy Friday Everyone! It’s so nice to have you here!

Friday’s Features

Come join me over at Roomag where my Summer Peach Iced Tea is being featured! A cool glass of this is one delicious cure for this mid-Summer heat! I just had my neighbors over on the deck and we sipped on this as we watched our children fish in the pond. You are going to love it.

Roo Mag

Don’t forget to head over to Women Living Well where Courtney is showing off this EASY Dump Cake recipe! You will be amazed at how good it is {4 ingredients folks!!!}.

 

Friday’s Favorites

Each week I choose my “favorite” linked-up recipes from my fellow bloggers! Here is the line-up for today!

Thanks for sharing Ladies…lookin good!

Stuffed Tomato Cups

Made By: Will Cook For Smiles

Provencal Vegetable Gratin

Made By: The 21st Century Housewife

Blueberry Lemon Scones

Made By: Simply….this, that and the other.

Feasting in Fellowship Friday Link-UP!

Please link up your favorite recipes, Christian posts, and posts of the season! Link up as many as you wish…all I ask is that you add my button {located on my side bar} onto your post! I will choose 3 of my favorites to display next week! I will also tweet, FB, and Pin you!

Come visit my board: Top Picks From My Fellow Food Bloggers!

*Thank you to all who tweet, FB and Pin Comfy in the Kitchen. I truly appreciate your support and love meeting new friends! I do hope I am an encouragement to you! 

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Strawberry Shortcake {Food Allergy Friendly}

July 11, 2012 · by · 1 Comment


Soooo…I promised all my “gluten-free” friends that I would share “glutenous minimus” recipes I’ve enjoyed…so here it goes! I am a HUGE fan of Gluten Free Bisquick…would you know that it makes GREAT Strawberry Shortcake?! “Glutenous maximus” friends- no worries, you can use regular Bisquick {haha}. A very easy, delicious, “kinda homemade” Summer dessert. Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream for the finishing touch.


I literally “bought out” my local grocery store of this product. LOVE it! {For those who do not have food allergies- regular Bisquick is just fine, make sure to follow package instructions-they differ!} 

Cut and rinse strawberries 

Add water and sugar. Cover and place in refrigerator. Juice from the strawberries will mix with the water and sugar and make for a delicious syrup for shortcake. 

In a medium bowl combine Bisquick mix and 1/4 cup sugar, cut in butter with 2 knives.

Stir in milk, eggs and vanilla {use any milk you wish}.

Drop batter by the spoonfuls on a foil lined pan – brush with melted butter. Bake in a 425 oven for 10-12 mins. 

While shortcake is baking make your whipped cream.

{Or have your children make the whipped cream, hehe}

Mmmmm….so easy, so worth it.

Shortcakes are done!

Does anyone else appreciate this “golden” color? Ohhh, I just love it.

Place one shortcake on the bottom, top with strawberries, place a shortcake on top and garnish with homemade whipping cream. Beautiful! Enjoy Ladies!!!!

{Gluten-Free never tasted so…..good!}

 

 

 

Strawberry Shortcake {Food Allergy Friendly}
Author: Gluten Free Bisquick
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 12 mins
Total time: 22 mins
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 4 cups diced strawberries
  • 2 Tbsp sugar {for strawberries}
  • 2 Tbsp water
  • 2 1/3 cup Bisquick {gluten-free}
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup butter
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla
  • {whipped cream-optional}
  • {1/4 cup melted butter for brushing over shortcakes-optional}
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 425.
  2. Dice strawberries and mix with 2 Tbsp sugar and water-cover and refrigerate.
  3. In a medium bowl combine Bisquick, 1/4 cup sugar;Cut in butter with 2 knives.
  4. Stir in milk, eggs and vanilla.
  5. Drop by spoonfuls onto foil lined cookie sheet.
  6. Brush with butter.
  7. Bake for 10-12 mins until golden brown.
  8. Place one shortcake in a bowl, add strawberries, place another shortcake on top and add whipped cream.
Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly, Kiddos, Uncategorized ·

The “Tidbit Tray”

July 9, 2012 · by · 11 Comments


There’s just “something” inviting about a tidbit tray….it helps congregate, holds ya over, and is a great way to offer hospitality. I make tidbit trays all the time- For family, guests…even for lunches! I use whatever I have on hand and it always seems to work…nothing fancy, just “comfy”.


If I know the children are really hungry around “almost” dinner time {while I am busy cooking!}, I’ll make them a tidbit tray and skip making a dinner salad. Again, I simply scour the refrigerator and cupboards for fruits, cheeses,crackers, pretzels, veggies….you name it. It’s SO worth the extra couple of mins to avoid “Maaaaaaaa……when’s dinner going to be ready!!!!!???”

Here they are… all in one place, easing those hunger pangs, talking about the cutest things. “Dinner’s almost ready kidos…don’t get too full!!!!!”

Signature
Filed Under: Appetizers, Food Allergy Friendly, Kiddos ·

Friday’s Favorites and a Link-UP!

July 6, 2012 · by · 17 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!
I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July! There are some delicious Summer recipes on the menu today…Mmmm! Enjoy!

My friend Courtney has this amazing Triple Berry Cobbler baking in the Women Living Well oven! A warm bowl of this a la mode + a freshly brewed cup of coffee + A cool Summer evening = hospitality at it finest!

Friday’s Favorites!

Sweet and Saucy Buffalo Wings

Made By: This Glorious Day

Fluffernutter Blondies

Made By: Back for Seconds

Grilled Ranch Veggies
Made By: Cheerios and Lattes

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Friday Link-UP!
I Looooove to see what YOU have cooking ladies! Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, and/or posts of the season as you like. All I ask is that you place my button {located on my sidebar} onto the bottom of your post {pretty please}. Thank you so very much for tweeting, sharing on FB and Pinterest! You are a blessing!

*Each week I will pick, feature, FB, Tweet and Pin my top 3 favorite recipes that my fellow bloggers shared the week before. Come visit my “Top Picks from Fellow Food Blogger’s” Board on Pinterest!

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Easiest Doughnut Recipe Ever!

July 3, 2012 · by · 15 Comments


Wow! Wow! Wow! These really are the easiest doughnuts ever! If you like Elephant Ears or Funnel Cakes…you are going to LOVE these- they taste just like them. Your family is going to run into the kitchen when they wake up to the smell of these “almost homemade” doughnuts.

Do you have guests staying with you over the Holiday weekend? This is a perfect breakfast solution that will get TONS of oohhhs and ahhhs! Serve with Easy Ham and Cheesy Quiche, mixed berries, and freshly squeezed Orange Juice.


I simply took a 1/4 tsp measuring spoon and pressed it into a buttermilk biscuit {regular sized}.

I folded the flap and pressed it in. No biggie. You can use any tool you would like to make a small hole-but most people have a measuring spoon.


Do this to the entire can of biscuits. Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a pan on high heat. Drop all doughnuts into hot oil and let cook for appx 2 mins a side until lightly browned.

Don’t overcook! It doesn’t take very long! This is the perfect color…beautiful.

Take doughnuts out with tongs and place on a paper towel lined plate and let cool for 2 mins.

Cover with cinnamon and sugar…


Or powdered sugar.


YUMMMMmmmmm!!!!


My little taste tester approves!!!!!

Easiest Doughnut Recipe Ever!
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 4 mins
Total time: 9 mins
Serves: 5
Ingredients
  • 1 can {10 count} Pillsbury Buttermilk Biscuits
  • 16 oz Vegetable Oil
  • 1 cup powdered sugar in a bowl (to cover doughnuts-optional)
  • 1 cup sugar 1 tsp cinnamon in a bowl (to cover doughnuts-optional)
Instructions
  1. Heat oil in a large skillet on high
  2. While oil is heating, put holes in every biscuit using a 1/4 tsp measuring spoon (or cookie cutter, biscuit cutter, etc)
  3. Place doughnuts in hot oil, cook for 2 mins and turn cooking 2 more mins until golden brown.
  4. Using tongs, take hot doughnuts out of oil and place on a paper towel lined plate.
  5. Let cool 2 mins.
  6. Roll warm doughnuts in either cinnamon and sugar or powdered sugar.
  7. Serve warm! {with a glass of cold milk}
Signature
Filed Under: Breads, Breakfast, Dessert ·

Hostessing a 4th of July Party!

July 2, 2012 · by · 6 Comments

 

The 4th of July is a special day indeed. Haven’t we been such a blessed nation? I know we don’t fully understand the faith, desire, and commitment it took for our forefathers to get us our freedom. But, I do know that we bathe in it as we go freely to church each week, hold bible studies, and have the sweet fellowship we do right here online! Praise God.

I pray that you are able to celebrate this beloved holiday with your family and friends this week.

If you are gearing up to hostess this blessed celebration, I’ve put together some helpful tips for you that will be sure to make it a great day! I love a reason a celebrate!!! Wohoo!

Clean:

I know this is a given, but some of us clean too much- some not enough {Why clean when it’s just going to become a mess when guests come over? Have you heard this too?} The reason we clean is to gift our guests with a welcoming and relaxing environment.

The night before– Clean bathrooms, put away toys, windex, and dust. My husband typically will pick up the garage and mow the yard that day as well.

The day of- Sweep and vacuum. If your floors are decently clean you do not need to wipe them as they will get dirty pretty quickly. Put the least amount of your cleaning efforts into the children’s rooms- the kids will go in there and play soon enough.

Lock any doors of rooms you don’t want guests or little one’s going into. We typically do this with our bedroom because of past makeup/jewelry incidences with little ones {lol}. So, honestly if I have to choose anything not to clean that day…it will be my room {gasp}!

Plug in air fresheners throughout your home. Ahhh…

Cook/Grill:

The night before– Make salads {don’t add dressing}, desserts, iced tea, and lemonade. Marinate meats. Don’t forget to check that the propane tank is full!

The day of-For a 4th of July party I recommend the hostess also provide the meats {burgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, grilled chicken, etc} and ask guests who are closest to you to bring a warm side dish {in my experience, guests enjoy bringing something in hand – they are thrilled that they have a home to celebrate in! Do not feel bad asking for help}.

Music:

Play “music of the season” softly in the background to set the mood. Silence is never a good thing at a party.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

{photo credit: The Style Sisters}

Decorate:

Plant a few flowers, hang a wreath, post your flag, purchase some helium balloons, Holiday and inspired tablecloths {paper plates, utensils and napkins are just fine}.

You do not have to go overboard, just a little flare will remind your guests it’s a special occasion! Take a trip to your local party store, craft store or super store {don’t purchase these items at the grocery store-they are incredibly marked up there}.

Entertainment:

Children and grown-ups alike enjoy being entertained. Have options laid out in front of them so they don’t have to search.

For children– Have slip and slides, pools, and/or sprinklers ready {Have towels set aside}. Get sandbox toys, balls, gloves, and bats out.

For adults: Bocce, corn hole, horseshoes, cards and board games are always fun.

Don’t be afraid to ask friends who have these items to bring them!

Tid-Bits:

Place small bowls of peanuts and candies throughout the house where conversations may start. Place bowls of chips and pretzels on outside tables.

red white blue kiddie cocktail1 223x300 A patriotic mocktail for the kids!

{Red,white, and blue Mocktail}

Drinks: 

Have a designated area for these. Fill pitchers with ice and drinks-set out cups. If you are serving canned soda/water bottles place them in ice in a cooler outside.

Clean-up:

Have  trash cans easily accessible to guests {one inside and one outside}. I recommend paper plates for picnics so that clean-up is easy! Tidy up the kitchen a bit and cover food….but LEAVE anything out that won’t go bad! Guests may still eat a little here and there… You don’t want to make them feel forced out.

{photo credit}

Make Coffee:

Even if it is HOT, there are guests that LOVE coffee after dinner! It’s a comfort drink no matter the season or the reason. Have it ready before the gathering so you simply have to press the start button.

Relax:

The seemingly simplest task will probably be your biggest challenge. Your guests will feel so much more at home if you can sit and relax with them. This is not a life or death event- chill Girlies. There are plenty of hands that are willing to help- ask! Don’t get anxious…enjoy, you worked hard.

I hope this helps organize some of your thoughts while planning for your guests this week! Have a GREAT time and a very blessed 4th of July!

For 4th of July Recipes visit my previous post.

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy Talk, Cooking For A Crowd, Seasonal, Uncategorized ·

Friday’s {4th of July} Favorites and a Link-up!

June 29, 2012 · by · 28 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!

Friday’s Features
Two of my favorite blogs are Women Living Well and Roomag…They are cooking up some of my special recipes for the 4th of July- be sure to check them out!

Join me over at Roomag where a delicious Triple Berry Trifle is being served for the 4th of July! You are going to LOVE how easy this is. Simple desserts and salads give you more time to prepare the main course!
Roo Mag

My sweet friend Courtney at Women Living Well  is sharing some mouth watering recipes hot off the grill-these will be huge hits at your holiday picnics this weekend! {If you are not the “Grill Master” in your family, be sure to print these recipes and hand them over! But, take heart- grilling is super easy and fun! Try it if you haven’t already!}

Friday’s Favorites

Each week bloggers unite on Comfy and link up their favorite recipes-these are my “favorites” {although, I must say, it is a very difficult choice every time-I am surrounded by “comfy” ladies!} Thanks to all who participate! I love seeing what YOU have cooking!

Banana Vanilla Wafer Ice cream Triffles

Made By: Joyful Homemaking

Chick-fil-a Copycat Lemondade

Made By: Cheerios and Lattes

Patriotic Chocolate Dunked Krispies! 

Made By: Back For Seconds

4 For The 4th {of July} Bonus Features

I searched the web to find “comfy” recipes for your holiday guests! Here’s the roundup!

Patriotic “Mocktail” {for children and grownups!}

Made By: Baby Center   

red white blue kiddie cocktail1 223x300 A patriotic mocktail for the kids!

Three-Bean Baked Beans

Made By: Taste of Home

Three-Bean Baked Beans Recipe

AmericanMacaroni Salad

Made By: Food Network

Dipped Ice Cream Sandwiches

Made By: Taste of Home

Dipped Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

LINK- UP Time!

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Link-Up Party! Please link-up YOUR favorite recipes, Christian posts, or posts of the Season {Holidays}, please be sure to include my button {located on my side bar} on to your post. Thanks for Tweeting ,Pinning and FBing! Have a wonderful 4th of July. We have MUCH to be thankful for living in the USA!

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Sour Cream Pound Cake

June 27, 2012 · by · 7 Comments

This delicious, dense, buttery pound cake is one of Paula Deen’s favorite family recipes. I’m always impressed when “sour cream” is in a dessert recipe…it makes breads like this so moist. You’re going to love this one.  

This particular photo was another “meal ministry”- You may actually have all the ingredients just sitting around in your refrigerator already…so go ahead and make your neighbors morning tomorrow 😉 Serve with berries or slice and grill in a pan with butter. YUM!

 

 

Sour Cream Pound Cake
Prep time: 25 mins
Cook time: 1 hour 20 mins
Total time: 1 hour 45 mins
Serves: 8-10
Ingredients
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 6 large eggs
  • 3 cup flour
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 lb (2 sticks) butter
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine and cream the butter, sugar, and add the sour cream.
  3. Sift the baking soda and flour together.
  4. Add the sifted flour to the creamed mixture alternating with eggs, beating each egg one at a time.
  5. Add the vanilla.
  6. pour the mixture into a greased and floured 10- inch tube pan.
  7. Bake for 1 hour 20 minutes.
Signature
Filed Under: Breads, Breakfast, Dessert, Uncategorized ·

A “Recycled” Party Idea!

June 25, 2012 · by · 14 Comments

As you ladies know, my friend Mem is VERY comfy in her Thai kitchen. Here she is at it again with a great tip for us moms!

She recycles her Starbucks bottles for entertaining company. Don’t they look adorable? This particular event was her son’s birthday party. 

She simply saves the bottles, tears off the labels and washes them in the dishwasher. Here she filled them up with fruit punch and lemonade, served them on a tray and topped them with a silly straw. Love!

Thanks for sharing this adorable, yet economical tip with us today Mem! We had so much fun at the party!

{Thank you so much for understanding that Mem and I are pro-family, lovers of Christ and people. Any comments made about Starbucks will be removed. Every entity is imperfect in this fallen world. Which reminds me how much we need a Savior. Prov 15:1} 

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy Talk ·

Friday’s Favorites

June 22, 2012 · by · 19 Comments

My friend Courtney is serving up a delicious meal over at Women Living Well today! Come check out this Crispy Orange Beef with Broccoli…my mouth is watering just looking at it.

Friday’s Favorites

Crabby Melts

Made By: Simply This, That and The Other…

Strawberry Cloud Trifle 

Made By: Not Quite Donna Reed

Summer Time Cobb Salad

Made By: Joyful Homemaking


It’s Friday’s FEASTING IN FELLOWSHIP LINK-UP!

Please link up your recipes, Christian posts, and posts of the season! Link as many as you wish, all I ask is that you link back and include my button {located on my sidebar}. Thank you SO very much for tweeting and FBing that you are sharing on Comfy in the Kitchen! I also love my “Pinners”- you are so wonderful!

Remember: I feature my 3 favorites AND I “Pin” you too! I LOVE to show YOU off! Keep cooking Gals- have a very blessed weekend. Love to you, Janelle

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Lemon Butter Baked Cod

June 19, 2012 · by · 13 Comments


Last night’s dinner was a huge success {my boys are seafood LOVERS}! Plates were literally licked clean after these tender, lemony, buttery filets of cod were served! An easy, yet delicious recipe…great for Summer dining.

Pat filets with a paper towel to dry.

Cut a lemon in half and squeeze one half over each filet. Slice the other half into thin slices to put on top while baking.

Melt 1 stick of butter and pour over top of filets.

Sprinkle with sea salt, Old Bay seasoning, and top with lemon slices. Bake in a preheated oven to 375 for 20-25 mins until done. Fish will be white, tender and flakey.

I served this last night along with smashed potatoes and green beans.

Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 25 mins
Total time: 30 mins
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • 4-6 Cod Filets
  • 1 lemon (cut in half)
  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter (no substitutions)
  • Old Bay seasoning
  • Sea Salt (regular salt will work too)
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375
  2. Pat filets with a paper towel to dry and place in baking dish
  3. Squeeze 1/2 of a lemon over filets. Slice the other half of the lemon and save to put onto of filets while baking.
  4. Pour 1 stick of melted butter over top of filets.
  5. Sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning and sea salt.
  6. Top with lemon slices.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 mins. Filets will be white, tender and flakey.

 

Signature
Filed Under: Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly, Uncategorized ·

Loaded Baked Potato Chip Dip

June 18, 2012 · by · 8 Comments

 I know am not being a good influence here…but, this dip is so blogworthy I can’t even stand it. My mother-in-law was telling me about this delicious dip she had while at a friend’s house. It sounded so good, I had to try it! This was what I brought to our Ladies Summer Bible study this week. It was so good, I made it again for friends last night! Serve with hearty potato chips and it tastes like you’re eating a loaded baked potato. Mmm! 

*Naturally gluten-free {NOT fat-free!}

Freshly shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, bacon crumbles, green onions.

Mix well with mixer.

Place in a casserole dish

Cover and bake for 30 mins, uncover and bake 15 more mins until lightly golden.

Serve hot out of the oven with chips! I choose wavy chips because this is a thicker dip.

Share with others! {or you will be in big, big trouble}

A shout out to the 3rd annual Summer Ladies Bible Study! Love you girls!!!! We are so blessed to have God and one another!

Loaded Baked Potato Chip Dip
Author: Hormel / http://www.hormelfoodsrecipes.com/recipes/details/2231/warm-and-cheesy-bacon-dip.aspx
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 45 mins
Total time: 50 mins
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1 (16 oz) container sour cream
  • 1 (3 oz) jar Hormel REAL Bacon bits
  • 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 (8 oz) cream cheese
  • 1 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375.
  2. Mix all ingredients well with mixer.
  3. Place in an oven safe casserole dish.
  4. Bake for 30 mins covered, then an additional 15 mins uncovered.
  5. Serve with potato chips!
Notes

Make sure to use REAL bacon bits/crumbles, or you may also make your own bacon bits. Do not use imitation.

Signature
Filed Under: Appetizers, Cooking For A Crowd, Food Allergy Friendly ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday!

June 15, 2012 · by · 24 Comments


Come visit me over at Women Living Well where we are sharing a secret….you will be making the best jigglers in town!

Fridays Top 3 Recipes
Thanks to all my fellow bloggers for linking up each week! Remember: I will choose my favorite 3 recipes to feature every Friday. I will also show you off on my Pinterest page! Thanks for FBing/Tweeting that you are sharing on “Comfy’s Feasting in Fellowship Friday!”

Icebox Lemon Angel Food Cake

Made By: Joyful Homemaking

Garlic Cheddar Biscuits 

Made By: Serving Joyfully

Fabulous Fruit-filled Crepes

{allergy friendly}

Made By: The Nourishing Home

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Link-Up!
Please link-up as many recipes, Christian posts, and/or posts of the season as you like! All I ask is that you place my button {located on my sidebar} onto your post. Can’t wait to see what you have in store this week on Comfy in the Kitchen…have a blessed weekend!

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Broccoli Cheese Casserole

June 13, 2012 · by · 3 Comments


What is there not to like about this cheesy, hearty and flavorful side dish? It has been a staple at many-a-potlucks in my family. Enjoy!


Prepare rice, and mix together with cheese whiz, sautéed onions and celery, cream of chicken soup {you may replace with 1/2 cup chicken broth and 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream for gluten-free cooking}, milk and steamed broccoli.


Mix all together and bake in a 350 oven for 45 mins until hot and bubbling!

YUMmmmm…

Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 45 mins
Total time: 1 hour 5 mins
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 8 oz jar Cheese Whiz
  • 1 10 oz can cream of chicken soup {or 1/2 cup chicken broth and 1/2 cup heaving whipping cream for a gluten-free option}
  • 1 head steamed broccoli {chopped}
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • salt/pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350
  2. Grease a 9×13 pan.
  3. Sautee onions and celery in butter.
  4. Mix all ingredients together and bake for 45 mins until bubbly. Delicious!
Signature
Filed Under: Food Allergy Friendly, Sides ·

Who do I cook for? {Meal Ministry}

June 11, 2012 · by · 19 Comments

{A meal I made for a friend who had surgery. Above- Green beans, Mashed Redskins, Meatloaf}

The other day I received an e-mail asking me who I cook for.

It’s funny…but I just sat there thinking “Who DO I cook for?” I mean, I don’t have a specific plan..organization…purpose, etc. Who do I cook for…

And I started day dreaming about the meals I’ve made, and the places I’ve taken them, and the people, and the situations, and the prayers….

Here is who I have cooked for:

  • My family. Of course, this is my first ministry. My immediate family and my extended family get my love first ;)We’ve made a lot of great memories around that dinning room table.
  • Friends. Coming together in fellowship is so important…it’s nice to have an open home and a meal for friends.
  • Our Adult Bible Fellowship. Bringing in breakfast treats on Sunday mornings.
  • Bible Studies. There is comfort in the Lord, fellowship, and gathering around the table with snacks. It’s a blessing.
  • The man with Multiple Sclerosis. He was a married businessman at one time ,but lost it all…his wife, job, and most saddening… his ability to walk or feel anything from the waist down. He ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every day, 3 meals a day. The bread could be frozen and the peanut butter and jelly stayed for a while…going grocery shopping was not easy and couldn’t be done on his own. Cooking was also difficult. My heart broke for him and so I made and took him dinner for a year.
  • The man with Muscular Dystrophy. He wears a constant smile even though his body is breaking down. His mom lives with him and he cares for her….she had a heart attack, but was able to come home. Surely they deserved some wedding soup.
  • The widower. He lost the love of his life after 50 years of marriage. She always cooked amazing meals and he really missed that. Something comforting about a home cooked meal. I couldn’t replace her cooking, but I could spare a warm plate of food to remind him of God’s love.
  • Many new moms. What a miraculous time in life! But, it is also stressful…sleepless nights, nursing, uncomfortably juggling new responsibilites. Not having to worry about dinner time is just so helpful.
  • The countless people who’ve had surgeries or are struggling with a chronic illness. I can’t imagine how hard it is to add hospital visits, the weight of health issues, and extra needed time to a normal busy schedule. Dinner delivered is a blessing.
  • The family who’s father/husband was in a car accident. They were trying to make life as normal as they could while he healed….Mom was tired. This was a huge help.
  • The New Members/Guests at church. I get so excited to see what God is doing for our church and for our community. It is a HUGE blessing to cook for the new families and get to know them over lunch.
  • Special events {Beautified} – When there’s an opportunity to serve for the Lord, I am on it. When it’s His will- it is always a blast.
  • Neighbors. I’ve been known to randomly knock on a door or two with dessert in hand… they are kind enough to put up with my outdoor cat in their bushes, lol-they deserve a treat every now and again!!! Have I told you ladies how blessed we are with our neighbors? Seriously…we are surrounded by awesome families. It’s been an amazing 8 years here.
  • Clients. My husband and I appreciate the business our clients give us. They are a tremendous blessing and what bring in money for our livelihood and my ministry.
  • Children. The kids on the baseball team, school, football, at school, and in the neighborhood. I want to be “that mom”.

{If I am making a meal for a family, I try to add an additional kid friendly meal…This meal is sure to bring a smile!}

I feel as though I could go on and on remembering who God has led me to cook for, when, for what reason, etc. But the most important thing to know about this meal ministry is that it truly is ALL from Him. He has transformed me into a vessel to carry out His work – I am just a willing participant. I would never have the means to carry this out without God, nor would I get the enjoyment out of it if it weren’t from Him. It’s a small ministry in comparison to others…but it’s what God has called me to do and I am so thankful. 

I pray that you will also be the branches that reach out to those around you {which is why I blog}! So many of you have e-mailed me with amazing stories of how you’ve started your own meal ministry! It is so encouraging and strengthens MY faith when I read these endearing letters. Thank you for thinking of me and taking the torch! May God bless you all abundantly. If I could cook for every one of you, you better believe I WOULD!

“God doesn’t call on the qualified, he qualifies who He calls upon”

I always purchase inexpensive/throwaway containers so the people I cook for do not have to return anything to me {or wash anything}. They are a fraction of the price at your local dollar stores as opposed to your grocery story! Marcs carries “real” containers that are less expensive than the throw-aways at the grocery store!


Can’t forget dessert! {Especially for those new moms! They are burning way too many calories nursing, lol}

Who have YOU cooked for?!

Signature
Filed Under: Meal Ministry, Uncategorized ·

Dirt {the incredible,edible}

June 9, 2012 · by · 5 Comments


Dirt pudding is so easy…so fun…so yummy! Adults and children alike enjoy this special dessert. You can dress it up with wormies, put it in a flower pot {or small pots like the ones shown above}, or simply serve it with the oreo “dirt” topping in a serving bowl. No matter the initial presentation, there will surely be a bowl licked clean in the end! Enjoy!

{This recipe can be multiplied to your desired amount}

*Oh, yes…I do enjoy making my own whipped cream but I am not offended by Cool-Whip once in a while. I know, I know. 😉  

Whisk together pudding packages with milk and set aside in refrigerator.

Crush oreos by placing them in a large ziploc bag and pounding them with a mallet. Spread 1/2 of  them down in the bottom of a pan {or whatever serving dish you desire}. 

In another bowl, add butter, powdered sugar, and cream cheese.

Beat well.

Add cream cheese mixture to pudding and stir.

Fold in Cool-Whip

Layer onto crushed Oreos.

Top with remaining Oreos. Mmmm….  

Dirt {the incredible,edible}
Author: www.food.com
Prep time: 15 mins
Total time: 15 mins
Serves: 6
From: www.food.com http://www.food.com/recipe/dirt-pudding-110140
Ingredients
  • 1 (14 ounce) bag Oreo cookies
  • 2 (3 1/2 ounce) packages French vanilla instant pudding
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup butter or 1/4 cup margarine (1/4 cup)
  • 1 (12 ounce) container Cool Whip
Instructions
  1. Break up cookies, put 1/2 on bottom of preferred dish and save other 1/2 for topping.
  2. Mix pudding and milk together, set aside.
  3. Mix sugar, cream cheese and butter.
  4. Add sugar mixture to pudding; fold in cool whip.
  5. Pour onto cookies, top with remaining cookies.
  6. let it cool in refrigerator.
Signature
Filed Under: Cooking For A Crowd, Dessert, Kiddos ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday!

June 8, 2012 · by · 17 Comments


{My Father-in-Law with my daughter}

Father’s Day is coming up soon Ladies! Are you wondering what to make for those special men in your lives? Come visit me over at The Better Mom where I share a delicious Father’s Day menu that will be sure to satisfy your boys. As you can see, my Father-in-law was a happy camper after being served this meal!


Oooo…Courtney from Women Living Well  is sharing one of my husband’s ultimate favorite desserts~ Strawberry Pretzel Salad! This is a MUST make if you haven’t tried it already! Oh, how I love a sweet and savory dessert, Mmmmmm! A perfect potluck treat for Summer.

Friday’s Top 3 Recipes!

Tomato-Basil Cheese “Pie”

Made By: A glimpse of me

Skinny Creamy Chicken Marinade

Made By: Cheerios and Lattes

Light Strawberry Flower Cake

Made By: The Joy of Everyday Cooking

{Love this- and it’s easier than it looks. So creative Joy!}

It’s a FEASTING IN FELLOWSHIP LINK UP! Wohoo!

Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, or posts of the season as you wish! All I ask is that you place my button {located on my sidebar} onto your post. Thanks for tweeting/FB/Pinning and sharing the joy of meal ministry with others!

Every week I will choose 3 of my favorite linked up recipes to feature on my “Feasting in Fellowship Fridays”…not only that, I will be advertising you on my Pinterest under Top Picks from my Fellow Food Bloggers! I love to show you off!

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

“The 5 Senses of Hospitality”

June 7, 2012 · by · 1 Comment

Preparing your home for guests is a huge blessing..to you, your guests, and to the Lord.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31

What a great reminder of how important it is to open up our homes to others. Hospitality creates an opportunity to love others well all in the name of the Lord-A Lord who has given us a home to entertain in, food to prepare, friends and family who want to be with us, and the energy to serve others!  It can also be the very foundation for fellowship, building bonds, memories, and relationships.

To some, opening up your home may be overwhelming…but please do not fret! If you tune into your guests “5 senses” you will be sure to be a “hostess with the mostess” and guests will feel very much at home. There is no doubt our loving God gave us these senses to bless us and to bless others…

How to touch on all of the “5 senses of hospitality” for your beloved guests.

The Five Senses:

  • Hearing
  • Sight
  • Touch
  • Smell
  • Taste

Hearing: Play soft background music and turn dishwashers and washer/driers off before company arrives. If you think about it, how does it make you feel when you walk into a completely silent home? A home with a very loud TV?  How about a home where the laundry and dishwasher is on? It’s awfully hard to have a conversation when there is too much background noise. In turn, it can also be “uncomfortable” if it is stark quite. Preparing your home’s “noise level” is a great way to think about your guests before they arrive.

Sight: Tidy up, vacuum, and wipe countertops/floors before guests arrive. This will give them a nice, clean, and relaxing environment.  Think of where your guests will travel through your home. Add a welcoming wreath to your front door, a few seasonal decorations, flowers, and make sure the guest bathroom is clean with fresh towels. Give an atmosphere of “loving well”.

Touch: Greet your guests! A hug, kiss on the cheek, handshake- whatever you feel comfortable with, but please make contact with them! Take their coats and walk them into the room you’d like to gather in…put your arm around them and make them feel at home. You are happy they are there and they took the time to visit you! What better gift is the gift of time? Welcome it.

Smell: Ahhhh….this is such an important one for me. When guests first walk into your home they are greeted by the smell!!! Food baking/cooking is definitely a smell everyone loves. But, that isn’t all! Open some windows for fresh air (weather permitting) and light a few candles for a special touch. I typically have  candles lit in the foyer, living room, kitchen, and guest bath. If you have throw pillows/blankets on your couch, throw them in the wash before guests arrive so they smell fresh. I also love the smell of “Murphy’s Oil Soap”- I make sure to wipe my first floor floors down before company comes over simply for the smell!

Taste: Prepare a delicious appetizer, meal, and/ or dessert for your guests. If you are having guests over for dessert, put your dish in the oven so it will be finished 20 mins after guests arrive that way you can serve it  piping hot out of the oven. Make a fresh pot of coffee. Casually place food and drinks in front of your guests-most people if asked, “Would you like something to drink” reply, “I am ok for now, thank you” . But if a pitcher of lemonade is in front of them with an empty glass, they are more willing to make themselves at home. Lay out napkins, silverware, and plates ahead of time so you can relax with your guests.

 

As you see, tuning into the 5 senses of your guests tackles all of the important steps it takes to love others well in your home! What a blessing it is to know others want to learn more about hospitality…may you light many candles and share much banana bread with those you love!

You may have seen this post on my sweet friend Karen Ehman’s blog!

 

I am adding her to one of my “favorites”!!!

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy Talk, Uncategorized ·

Nailed it! {lol}

June 6, 2012 · by · 10 Comments

Ohhh… am I getting a good laugh out of Pinterest today!!!! Thank you to the ladies who posted these photos of humility….I LOVE a person who can laugh at themselves {I have gotten kick out of myself over the years, that is FOR SURE! ha!} I can definitely think of some times that I have “Nailed it”! Let me be an encouragement to you with these photos and say that we ALL fall short 😉 Keep cooking!

Nailed it! Lol Nailed it! Lol Nailed it! Lol

Chickie Eggs

Pinned Image

Cookie Monster Cupcakes

Nailed it!
Pumpkin Donut Blobs

Nailed it!

Donut Hole Snowman

nailed it !

Cookie Cups

I can’t think of a better way to learn how to cook than by way of “nailing it”, can you?! I am a big believer in learning from mistakes, laughing about them…then moving on.

Keep cooking girls! Thanks for the giggle!  

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom. ~Proverbs 11:2 

 

 

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy Talk, Uncategorized ·

Friday’s Recipes

June 1, 2012 · by · 18 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!

Is everyone geared up for Summer?! I know I sure am. Sun-kissed faces, swimming pools, popsicles, late night glow-in-the-dark bocce with the kids…I’m welcoming these warm days with open arms.

Here is a delicious Summer recipe that your family will just love {and you will need to make over and over again}. I have posted an allergy friendly version, but those who aren’t so “sensitive”{hehe} can make it with a regular yellow cake . Come visit me over at Women Living Well for the recipe! Say “hi” to sweet Courtney for me while you are there!



Friday’s Top 3 Recipes

White Chocolate Goo Goo Cluster Brownies

Made By: Brue Crew

{So, there are white chocolate chips, peanuts, marshmallows and caramel bits in these brownies-yep, pretty sure these would be a weakness for me!}

Peanut Butter Cake

Made By: 2 are Better than 1

Cinnamon Crusted Blueberry Loaf 

Made By: Little Rays of Sunshine

It’s a FEASTING IN FELLOWSHIP Link-UP! Please post as many recipes, Christian posts, and/or seasonal posts as you wish, all I ask is that you place my button {located on my side bar} onto your post! Thanks for tweeting, FB, and Pinning!

*All Top Recipes will be shared on the Comfy in the Kitchen Pinterest Board. SO glad to boast about my sweet fellow bloggers serving along side of me!

 

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Easy Cucumber Salad

May 31, 2012 · by · 3 Comments


Looking for a simple, healthy Summer side dish that you can put together ahead of time? Look no further…come visit me over at Roomag where I share the recipe for this refreshing Cucumber Salad…my children call it “homemade pickles” and ask that I make it over and over again! Enjoy! 

Roo Mag

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Sides ·

Reckless Lovers of Life…

May 30, 2012 · by · 7 Comments

From the book: You’ve Changed By Life by Max Lucado.

It touched me so much, I just had to share it with you. 

Reckless Lover’s of Christ

Here’s to the hero of the San Francisco marathon who crossed the finish line without seeing it (He was blind).

Here’s to the woman whose husband left her with a nest of kids to raise and bills to pay, but who somehow tells me every Sunday that god has never been closer. 

Here’s to the single father of two girls who learned to braid their hair. 

Here’s to the grandparents who came out of retirement to raise the children their children couldn’t raise. 

Here’s to the foster parents who took in a child long enough for that child to take their hearts -then gave the child up again. 

Here’s to the girl, told by everyone to abort the baby, who chose to keep the baby. 

Here’s to the doctor who treats more than half of his patients for free. 

Here is to the heroin addict turned missionary. 

Heres to the executive who every Tuesday hosts a 5:30 am meeting for Bible study and prayer. 

Here is to all of your reckless lovers of God.

~In the Eye of the Storm 

*Allow me continue on….

Here’s to the Dad who coaches and prays with his team… he may be the only man doing this in these children’s lives.

Here’s to the man who loves his step-grandchildren as his own.

Here’s to ALL the women who cook for those in need even though they are still busy with their own young families.

Here’s to the man who bought a perfect stranger a car because he knew he needed one.

Here’s to the teacher who stays after school to share the word of God with students.

Here’s to the women who volunteer in the nursery so other women can be fed.

Here’s to the elderly woman who works at the grocery store…she always has a smile even though  she is still living paycheck to paycheck.  

Here’s to the family who’s little boy is suffering with cancer, yet they praise God and trust Him with their son’s life.

Here’s to the child who sticks up for the one being bullied. 

Here’s to the teacher who sees the beauty in every student she has ever taught because they were handcrafted by God.

Here’s to the woman fighting stage 4 cancer…praying her entire family becomes saved through her suffering.

I could go on….and on….and on…..about reckless lovers of life.

So thankful to The Giver of life…

Who are the reckless lovers of life in YOUR life? Please share.  

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy Talk, Uncategorized ·

How to Boil Corn on the Cob

May 29, 2012 · by · 2 Comments

The easiest way to prepare corn is by using the boiling method. My personal favorite is  “bi colored” sweet corn….I scoop up a bunch of this {in August especially} at my local farm. Simply husk, rinse and you are ready to boil. I know this may seem like common knowledge…but for some, this is a learning experience! There is actually a small trick to boiling corn!

Corn on the cob is such an easy side dish …I add it to many a Summer meals! My children LOVE it.


Fill a large pot with water, then set your corn on the cobs inside. Turn heat onto high.


When the water starts to boil- the corn is done! Pretty neat hu?

Pour water out of large pot and place corn into a 9×13 pan with 1 stick of butter. Let butter melt and roll corn around until coated. Salt and pepper as desired.

Signature
Filed Under: Food Allergy Friendly, Learning the Basics, Sides ·

The Beautified Banquet

May 27, 2012 · by · 16 Comments

Hi Ladies! Wow…what a busy weekend. I just got home from a full day of baseball {tournament weekend} but I wanted to share with you how yesterday’s banquet went!

Needless to say, it went according to God’s plan and it was a huge success! Praise the Lord!

Drum roll please…..


The first thing we had to do yesterday when I got to the church was to put the flowers in water. We used the lemons we cut from the day before to brighten up the vases. I just loved how these turned out. Beautiful.

The tables were set from the night before….so only the centerpieces were needed! Easy.


Then, it was time to heat up those pots and pans! Here we have 2 large pots of water boiling with macaroni, the cheese sauce in the top left and in the center is the poppyseed dressing that goes over the ham and cheese sandwiches. It’s so different cooking in larger quantities- everything is SO BIG! The pots, pans, stoves, ovens….they all seem giant.

Seriously…this may not look pretty, but it is SO tasty. Sauce is ready to pour over top of the sliders now!

And there they are! I bought 5  pounds of brown sugar chipped ham and 3 lbs of baby swiss cheese. This made plenty for 75 people.

For some reason, I have come to find out that the little ones prefer cucumbers, carrots and dip to an actual salad. Give em what they want- it’s a special evening!

I thought these turned out so cute. It’s “dirt” pudding topped with oreos and gummy worms. I found these adorable glass flower pots at Pat Catans for cheap! I am sure I will reuse them for this same purpose over and over again.

My cousin Jen made these sweet little flowers. The theme of Beautified was “to grow in beauty” – love.

Here we are in the midst of it all! lol.

Pouring the sauce on all of the sliders…oh dear, did I honestly put a hair net over my sunglasses? Yeah. I did. This is me with a few days of less sleep and more to do, lol. But, I wouldn’t change it one bit.

Getting the drinks prepped…sweet tea, water with lemon, lemonade. Can you guess which one went out first? lol…the lemonade. I will remember that!

We had the pineapple fluff made, we just had to add the pretzel topping…

Who could forget the “Better than a hug cake”….I only needed to make one tray of this. Boo…I don’t like when I misjudge by that much. But, the jr. high kids will be happy to eat this tomorrow morning! haha.

Setting up…you see the grape caterpillars {thank you Alice}, veggie tray, PB&J heart sandwiches, cucumber sandwiches and strawberry spinach salad.

The cucumber sandwiches were assembled and sprinkled with dill weed. We didn’t do this the previous night because they would have been soggy. Fresh…fresh is good. Love the little signs…again, thanks to my cousin Jen!

Always a hit with the ladies.

Drinks are out! I purchased plastic cups because we had a lot of little ones…and straws, you simply must have straws when you are serving “ladies”… 😉

The candy buffet is ready!

Pink chocolate dipped marshmallows with sprinkles {thank you Julie and Kalie}

I love the new rolling warmers our church has now! We used to have to keep things warm in crockpots/roasters, etc. These make life so much easier! Yea!

Mmmm….Mac n cheese.

My daughter got dropped off at dinner time to enjoy the festivities! She got a huge kick out of trying on all the dress up clothes for the photo booth. Isn’t she a cutie?

Kara and me…she led the Beautified program this year… what a busy servant for the Lord she is! We also co-lead Summer bible studies together. {I am cracking up looking at this photo…my shirt is crooked, one leggin is higher than another- I guess I had an excuse, I was a little busy!}

Our ladies!

Kara, Julie and Me….remember when I told you I have a mentor? This is her! I LOVE her so much and am so grateful to have her as a friend and neighbor. I will be talking more about her in later posts 🙂

Kara and her sweet daughter.

So, what do you think? Better than a hug or what?

Dad surprised their girls by a special appearance ….so sweet. 

Yep! They were surprised alright! Adorable. 

The “Mom and Daughter Newlywed Game” 

Crafts! 

Oh, what a fun event this was to be a part of!!! Again…I feel so blessed God chose to use me in this way. So many people ask “How do you do it? How do plan, shop and cook for that many people?” My answer is always “God”. Before I had him in my life, I would honestly get nervous cooking for just my family…

God also always provides just the amount of helpers I need…thanks to all the ladies who showed up the night before and the night of! What a blessing YOU were!!!! Thank you SO much. 

Now, off to get some Zzzzs before we have to get up for church! 

Love ya! 
  

Signature
Filed Under: Cooking For A Crowd, Meal Ministry ·

Beautified Banquet {Continued}

May 25, 2012 · by · 5 Comments

Hi Again Ladies!

Well, today is day 2 of “gearing up” for the Beautified Banquet!

It is going to be such a fun event! Games, a modesty fashion show, crafts, a dress-up photo booth, a mom/daughter “newlywed” game, food, and fellowship. The best thing? Dads are making a surprise appearance and will be on stage reading letters they have written to their daughters about what they love about them. How. Awesome. Is. That.

So, we did some prep work for the event today…some at home and a lot at the church. Here is what we have done thus far.

For all the recipes- see yesterday’s post– I will also be posting the conversions for “Cooking for a Crowd” soon.

I made up 2 “Better Than a Hug Cakes”- enough for 75 people.

I washed and skewered the “Caterpillar Grapes” and will be putting on their cute little faces tomorrow. They are chillin in the refrigerator 🙂

Loaded up the “Swaggar Wagon” with all the ingredients I needed to start cooking at the church and the decorations! This was a lot of stuff! {shout out to Thirtyone bags in the bottom right corner, haha}

And sweet Alice making heart shaped PB & Js!

Finishing touches on the cakes. 

That’s a lot of Poppyseed Dressing! 

Ive come to find out that commercial mixers scare me. This one could take my arm off. But, Pineapple Fluff is worth that expense.

Cucumber sandwiches prep work done. Cucumbers are sliced and in the refrigerator! I’ll put them together tomorrow. 

Lemons are sliced for the centerpieces, cakes are done, pineapple fluff is done, salad is made. 

Moving on to the “Family Life Center” for decorating! Here is our beverage station…lemonade, sweet tea, and water with lemons. 

Check out these adorable little signs my cousin Jen made for me. LOVE. 

We “prepped” the candy buffet. 

Another adorable sign my cousin Jen made. 

We started setting tables….aren’t those the cutest little cookies? I have to remember to pick up the flowers from the florist tomorrow for the centerpieces!

The dress-up photo booth!!!! The girls are going to LOVE it! Thanks to Melissa and her hubby!!

Ill be back to show you the finished product of “The Beautified Banquet”!

No “Feasting in Fellowship Friday” today…I am off to get some Zzzz’s.

Tomorrow is a big day!  

Signature
Filed Under: Cooking For A Crowd, Meal Ministry, Uncategorized ·

Gearing up for the Beautified Banquet!

May 24, 2012 · by · 14 Comments

Hi Ladies!

Today was a fun, yet busy day! I spent the majority of the morning grocery shopping for  a Mother/Daughter banquet at our church this weekend. My dear friend {and Summer study co-leader} Kara was the hostess of this awesome program this year called Beautified. It has come to an end and now it is time to feast in fellowship! I am so thrilled she called on me to help…I can’t wait.

What is Beautified? It’s a faith-based monthly gathering where moms and daughters {ages 8-12} go over the book “8 Great Dates for Mom’s and Daughters” by Dannah Gresh. Speakers are invited in to encourage and talk about modesty, true beauty and world pressures on young women. This year was the first year of “Beautified” at our church and from what I hear…it was a HUGE hit. It will be offered every other year. I can’t wait until I can take my girls!

So…here’s what I am planning for the banquet…It’s a mixture of what the Ladies and the little Ladies would like..


Baked Ham and Swiss Poppyseed Sliders

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing  

Homemade Oven Baked Mac n Cheese

Cucumber Sandwiches

Peanut Butter and Jelly Heart Sandwiches

Heart shaped PB & J Tea Sandwiches

Grape Caterpillars 

Baby Carrots with Ranch Dip


Pineapple Pretzel Fluff

Better Than a Hug Cake 

I’ll make a “Cupcake Tower” out of these little Dirt pots…so cute! I found really cute ones at Pat Catans that are pink, orange and yellow. So excited about this! lol. 

Rainbow birthday party

And of course a candy buffet! My sweet cousin Jen helped me replicate this one above! Thank you SO much Jen!!!

We are adding these adorable Pink Chocolate Dipped Marshmallows {My neighbor Julie is making these for me- Thank you Julie!!!}  

White flowers, lemons, mason jars. 

I’ve ordered these flowers and bought a bunch of lemons today to make these centerpieces! I have the vases already {$1 each at Marcs}

Here’s what I gone done today:

A shout out to my fav meal ministry store GFS! Food in bulk, wohoo!

One packed Swaggar Waggon!

SOOOO Thankful for our SPARE refrigerator!!!!!

 I didn’t take a photo of my dining room, but should have…it is just as packed with all the non-refrigerated items and decorations. It’s a sign of fun and fellowship in the making! 

Do you know what I think of all of this? That It’s all one huge blessing.

Why, you ask? Because I am needed…God has qualified me even though I am not qualified on my own. It’s a beautiful ministry and I am overjoyed to be a part of it!

I’ll be baaaack to show you the finished result after the show!

P.S. Thank you to my sweet neighbor Heidi who watched my 3 year old today so I could get this accomplished. What a blessing!!!!!    

Signature
Filed Under: Cooking For A Crowd, Meal Ministry, Uncategorized ·

Watermelon Carvings

May 22, 2012 · by · 6 Comments

{{{{Mr. Smiley}}}}

One of my absolute favorite fruits is watermelon, and guess what ladies?! It’s in season and on SALE! Wohoo! I will be scooping up a bunch of these for our church’s Mother/Daughter banquet. In the meantime, I couldn’t help but share the creativity I found on the net..you have to check these out. The ones I chose seem simple enough for even this {non-crafty} girl to be able to make.

Oh, Gotta LOVE…. 

 Watermelon Carvings! What FUN!  

Check out this Watermelon Shark…my son eats watermelon like it’s going out of style, and we are a family fascinated by sharks. This is a must at his next birthday party!!! SO cute how they added the gummies! 

This Watermelon Tea Pot would be perfect for a Ladies tea party/luncheon!

LOVE this  Watermelon Sail Boat   for a pirate party! 

Hostessing a baby shower? This Watermelon Baby Carriage is a must {Thanks to Deb, I had one at my baby shower!}

A Shout OUT to my gluten free friends with this Watermelon Birthday Cake! 

Signature
Filed Under: Cutting, Dessert, Seasonal, Uncategorized ·

Easy Steamed Broccoli/Cauliflower

May 21, 2012 · by · 26 Comments


After having 2 children who won’t touch broccoli and cauliflower…I have to brag about my 3rd child who would pick this healthy side dish over chocolate! I kid you not!!!! I could totally do the butter churn dance as I write this…that is how excited I am when I hear her squeal with joy when I make this! What mother wouldn’t?!  

Nevertheless…steaming veggies doesn’t require an actual steamer, or even much effort at all. Here is a “comfy” way to do this….super easy, yummy, and healthy!

Cut and rinse your veggies. I chose broccoli and cauliflower because they are finished steaming in approximately the same amount of time.


Boil water in a large pot and  simply put the colander right on top.


Cover with a lid. There is enough room for the steam too cook the veggies yet enough room for the some steam to escape. I keep the lid on for appx 10 mins. {If you are still cooking your main dish by the time your veggies are finished, you may take the pot off the burner -keep the lid on so your veggies remain warm}.


See…not hard at all! Freshly steamed veggies in a jiffy. Salt and pepper as you wish.

Makes weeknight cooking a sinch!

Oh, and the other 2 kidos? They have to take 3 bites or they don’t get a popsicle after dinner…up to them, lol. My youngest ends up stealing their remains off their dish…bless her sweet heart!

 

 

 

Easy Steamed Broccoli/Cauliflower
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 10 mins
Total time: 15 mins
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1/2 head of broccoli
  • 1/2 head cauliflower
  • 4 cups water
  • salt and pepper
Instructions
  1. Place water in a large pot on high heat until boiling
  2. Cut and rinse broccoli and cauliflower in a colander.
  3. Place colander directly onto of pot with boiling water and cover.
  4. Let steam for approximately 10 mins.
  5. Salt and pepper as desired.
Signature
Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Food Allergy Friendly, Learning the Basics, Sides ·

Happy Friday! {Link-Up!}

May 18, 2012 · by · 17 Comments

Happy Friday Everyone!

Come join me over at Women Living Well where Courtney is serving up my “Easy Cucumber Sandwiches”…


These are one of the items I will be making next weekend for a Mother/Daughter Banquet at our church! They are deeeelicious!

Friday’s Top 3 Recipes!

Flower Pot Cakes

Made By: Back For Seconds

{Hmmm…I am seriously contemplating making these for the Mother/Daughter Banquet too! So cute!}

Edible Crayons

{SO adorable! Also a great gift for the end of the school year!}

By: Cheerios and Lattes

Strawberry Pudding Trifle

{Beautiful!}

Made By: The Joy of Everyday Cooking

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Link-UP! Please feel free to link up as many recipes, Christian posts, or posts of the season. All I ask is that you place my button {located on the side bar} onto your post! Thank you to all who FB, tweet and Pin what we have here on Comfy! Have a wonderful weekend everyone.

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Strawberry Jell-O Poke Hole Cake {Allergy Friendly}

May 17, 2012 · by · 13 Comments

One of the biggest challenges I have had eating gluten-free has been passing on cakes and breads. Now I know there are gluten free options out there, but there are few and far between that taste as good as the real thing. Why eat the extra calories if it isn’t going to be worth it? I’ve tried some recipes that require special trips to special markets…not going to happen all the time with this stay at home mom of 3.

Tonight I decided to make a dessert for the family. Hodgson Mills makes a pretty good gluten-free cake mix but I knew it could use a little help with texture and flavor. I changed some ingredients and added a few too-would you know it turned out delicious!!!?? Wohoo!  My husband took a bite and asked “Is this glutenous minimus?!” lol…why, yes it is Dear….tricked ya, did I? It was so nice to have a moist piece of cake again!!! YEA!

You may use your cake mix of choice {my friends who do not have allergies- you may use a regular yellow cake mix}

I followed the package instructions but I used coconut milk instead of butter milk and coconut extract instead of almond.

Spread batter into a prepared pan {this is an 11×7, you can use an 8×8- a 9×13 would work with a regular boxed cake- gluten free boxed cake mixes have less in them} Bake at 350 for apps 25 mins or per package instructions.

While the cake is baking, make your jell-o. Combine the packet with boiling water, then add your cold water. {If you are using bulk gelatin- this is 1/3 cup jello with 1 cup boiling and 1 cup cold}

1 container of vanilla frosting combined with 2 Tbsp of strawberry gelatin and 1/2 cup chopped strawberries. Blend together. 

YUM!

When cake is done baking, poke all over with a fork and pour jell-o over top. You may not need to use all of your jell-o. Place in refrigerator for 2 hours. 

Beautiful, isn’t it? Tasty too! What a treat for this “glutenous minimus” girl…lol.


Strawberry Jell-o Poke Hole Cake {Allergy Friendly}
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 25 mins
Total time: 35 mins
Serves: 8
Gluten and Dairy Free
Ingredients
  • 1 box gluten free yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup softened butter (or butter flavored crisco)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 tsp coconut extract
  • 2 (3 oz packages) strawberry jell-o (1 packet for pouring and 2 Tbsp for adding flavor to frosting)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 cup strawberries (1/2 diced 1/2 sliced for garnish)
  • 1 container vanilla frosting
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350.
  2. Make caked by creaming softened butter or shortening with cake mix.
  3. Add eggs, coconut milk, vanilla, and coconut extract.
  4. Pour into prepared pan and bake at 350 for 25 mins or until golden brown.
  5. Make jell-o by combining jell-o packet with 1 cup boiling water. Whisk, then add 1 cup cold water.
  6. Make strawberry frosting by combining 2 Tbsp dry strawberry jell-o and 1/2 cup diced strawberries to vanilla frosting-blend together.
  7. When cake is done baking and still hot- poke holes in it with a fork.
  8. Pour prepared jell-o over top. You may not need to use all of the jell-o.
  9. Place in refrigerator for 2 hours (make sure to put a pot holder underneath so your dish doesn’t crack-the heat can build up.
  10. Frost with strawberry frosting and garnish with sliced strawberries.
Notes

You make make this with a regular cake if you do not have food allergies! You may also use strawberry frosting instead of adding strawberry gelatin flavoring.

 

Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly, Uncategorized ·

Easy Marinated Grilled Shrimp

May 14, 2012 · by · 5 Comments

This is such an easy recipe to make with a huge “wow” factor. Keep your eyes open for seafood sales at your local grocery store! You are going to love this one. 

Marinate 1 lb of shrimp per person in butter, olive oil,  fresh garlic, orange juice, and lemon pepper. Place in the refrigerator for approximately 30 mins. It is typical for the marinade to harden while in the refrigerator. 

Place shrimp in a grill skillet   and toss back and forth by shaking the skillet until shrimp is cooked {be careful of flames}.This takes approximately 5 mins. Season with Old Bay seasoning. Serve hot of the grill! 

Delicious citrusy, buttery, garlicy shimp – What seafood lover could resist?!

 

Easy Marinated Grilled Shrimp
Prep time: 40 mins
Cook time: 5 mins
Total time: 45 mins
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 6 lbs shrimp- raw, deveined, tails off. {do not get already cooked}
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 6 cloves fresh garlic minced
  • 1 tsp lemon pepper
  • Old Bay seasoning
Instructions
  1. Whisk together melted butter, olive oil, orange juice, garlic and lemon pepper.
  2. Add shrimp and place in refrigerator for 30 mins.
  3. Heat grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Place marinated shrimp in grill skillet and toss constantly for 5 mins until done.
  5. Season with Old Bay.
Notes

1 lb of shrimp per person- you can multiply accordingly or use 1/2 pound as a side to another meat

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Entrees ·

Feasting in Fellowship Link UP

May 11, 2012 · by · 6 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!
Oh it’s a beautiful day here…the sunshine is such medicine to the soul! We have some delicious recipes today that would work perfectly with a Mother’s Day Brunch!

My friend Courtney at Women Living Well is featuring this delicious Grape and Pecan Chicken Salad….serve on croissants , in pastry puff cups, or over lettuce leaves. You will be asked for the recipe over and over again.


Top 3 Recipes of the Week…

{Mother’s Day Inspired.}

Berry Pudding Cakes

Made By: Cooking on the Front Burner 

Adorable Handmade”Love you a latte” Mother’s Day Cards

Made By: Inspired By Family

Rustic Pear Tart

Made By: The 21st Century Housewife


Happy Mother’s Day Weekend!!! It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Friday LINK UP! Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts and/or posts of the season. All I ask is that you place my button {located on my sidebar} onto your post.

Thank you ever so much for sharing on FB, Pinterest, and Twitter! I love having more friends…it really is a blessing.

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Easy Fruit Salsa

May 10, 2012 · by · 5 Comments


Mmmm….doesn’t this look so refreshing, so juicy, so irresistible?! Something special happens when ordinary fruit is washed, diced, and combined with other delicious fruits {fruit salsa, if you will}. I can’t explain how addicting it is…but I can give testimony that this very triffle is sitting on my lap right now, haha. I keep taking 1 min breaks to scoop in a mouthful as I post this simple, yet very blogworthy treat. A definite “make” for Mother’s Day!


I found this beautiful vase at Marshall’s and thought it would be the perfect container for the salsa! I love to be able to see the “parfait” appearance of all the fruits stacked onto one another.  Throw-away Ziplocs are more expensive than this- what a deal! Yea!

I used my dicer to dice the fruit. I diced, than rinsed.

Beautiful.


I continued dicing the fruits I had on hand…strawberries, pineapple, watermelon

And I threw in some grapes. You may want to add berries {do not dice} or bananas {they will brown, so eat immediately or toss in citrus juice}.


Layer like so. Would you look at those beautiful juices blending together?! Mmmmm!!!!!! This dish doesn’t need a thing…just beautiful fruits blended together make it as delicious as ever. Oh…and it’s pretty, got to love presentation 😉 Enjoy and make often- I sure do!

Easy Fruit Salsa
Prep time: 15 mins
Total time: 15 mins
Serves: 10
Ingredients
  • 1 Fresh pineapple {Twist off leaves, cut outer layer off and slice lengthwise along core-leaving core out}
  • 4 cups strawberries
  • 4 cups grapes
  • 1/4 of a watermelon
Instructions
  1. Dice fruits individually, then rinse.
  2. Layer one fruit at a time in a clear glass container.
Signature
Filed Under: Breakfast, Comfy In My Jeans, Cutting, Food Allergy Friendly, Learning the Basics, Salads, Sides ·

A Mother’s Day Brunch @ The Better Mom.

May 8, 2012 · by · 2 Comments

Are you planning on having a “Mother’s Day Brunch” for the special women in your life? Please come visit me over at The Better Mom for some ideas planning your event! These recipes are not only delicious, but simple enough to make ahead of time …giving YOU time to spend with your loved ones

 My Mom and Me 😉  

Signature
Filed Under: Breakfast, Uncategorized ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday!

May 4, 2012 · by · 16 Comments

Happy Friday! Wohoo!

I can’t wait to display what we have cooking today!

For those of you who have e-mailed me about the mentor/mentee FB post…I will be continuing to pair you up as God leads and as my time allows. I have no doubt that He will provide! Yesterday, my living room floor was covered with 100 printed e-mails and I happily read each one of them. What a blessing it is to see so many women eager to serve and so many women eager to learn about living their lives for Christ, family, and service. I believe everyone should have a mentor in life. I have one and am one…I will talk more about that in a later post 🙂

Back to food!

I visiting my friend Courtney over at Women Living Well where we are blending up a delicious “Strawberry Banana’s n Creme Smoothie”- Oh, is this ever tasty! What a special treat especially as the warm weather approaches us!

Friday’s Top 3 Recipes.

Healthy Homemade Lunchables!

Made By: The Nourishing Home

{Have you seen Kelly’s beautiful new blog??}

Strawberry Kiwi Angel Food Cake

Made By: Growing in Grace

Spicy Apple-Glazed Meatballs

Made By: Home Grown Cozy

 

It’s a “Feasting in Fellowship Link-Up”! Here is where I can see what YOU have cooking! Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, or posts of the season below. All I ask is that you place my button {located on my side bar} onto your post. The top 3 recipes will be posted next week and will also be pinned! Thank you to those who tweet, FB, and Pin..you are such a blessing and it is such a blessing to serve you and your friends/family! 

Have a wonderful weekend girls! 

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Sauteed Baby Spinach

May 1, 2012 · by · 4 Comments

Spinach is one of my all-time favorite veggies…I love spinach salad, spinach dip, and this dish~ sautéed spinach! One of my favorite steak houses serves this as a side dish and when we go out for a treat-I make sure to order this very thing! It’s simple, healthy, and would you know my entire family likes this?! Yes, you heard it! They all eat spinach! yea! {I am sure Popeye had something to do with that}


Heat 2 Tbsp of olive oil and 3 cloves of diced garlic in a large pan. Add spinach and sautee.

Spinach will “cook down” rather fast. If you have never made freshly sautéed spinach, it will surprise you how you can go from a pan overflowing with spinach leaves to a pan that looks like this! Many ladies may have only purchased spinach frozen or in a can…I am so okay with frozen spinach for dips, but for sautéed spinach- fresh is best!!!

Add to you liking salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Delicious!!!!


My 3 year  old flexing and saying “I eats me spinach!” hahaha!!! My 6 year old had a second helping! Yea! (excuse the crazy hair- we play hard)  

I wanted to also show you what I “paired” it up with…This was an evening that I had no idea what I was going to make for dinner…it was 7:00 and everyone was starving (have you ever been there?). This meal took 10 mins to make. Baked potatoes made in the microwave (not my favorite method, but my husband can’t tell), kielbasa on the grill and sautéed spinach. Nothing fancy, just comfy.

Sauteed Spinach
Prep time: 2 mins
Cook time: 5 mins
Total time: 7 mins
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 8 cups baby spinach, rinsed and patted dry with paper towels
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves diced garlic (you may use 1 tsp garlic powder if you do not have fresh)
  • Salt/Pepper
Instructions
  1. Heat large pan on medium high heat- add oil and garlic, sautee for 1 mins.
  2. Add spinach and sautee for 3 mins until wilted and cooked down.
  3. Add salt and pepper to your desired amount.
Signature
Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Food Allergy Friendly, Sides ·

Easy Ham and Cheesy Quiche

April 30, 2012 · by · 20 Comments

 
Is it TRUE? Have I never posted this recipe to Comfy in the Kitchen? For as many times as I make this, I had to laugh when I  noticed it was not in my index! This recipe has been featured on Women Living Well and I have referenced it many times ….it’s one of my favorites! Save it-print it- make it often. It’s wonderful.  
 
This is such an easy dish to whip up for a brunch, pot-luck, or morning bible study! I can’t count how many times I have made this. I also can’t count how many times I have been asked for the recipe…so here it is! It is simple, turns out perfect every time, easy to transport and is DEEEEElish!!! 

 
Sauté diced onions and ham in a pan sprayed with Pam

Add eggs and heavy cream, season with salt and pepper.

Beat Well

Lay cheese down on top of pie shell

Add ham and onions

Pour egg mixture on top

Bake in oven set at 375 for 35-45 mins.

The top of the Quiche will be lightly browned and the center should not move. If it does, place back in oven and cook in 5 min intervals.

The best Quiche ever and Ohhh, so easy!

Easy Ham and Cheesy Quiche  
 
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 45 mins
Total time: 1 hour
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1 pre-made pie shell (I recommend Marie Callender’s in your grocer’s freezer)
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup diced ham (I purchase this in a bag in the meat section)
  • cup diced onion
  • 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
  • salt/pepper
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375
  2. “Pam” a small pan and sauté onions with ham for appx 5 mins.
  3. Pour sauted ham and onions and shredded cheese into premade pie shell.
  4. Beat eggs with heavy cream until well blended, add salt and pepper.
  5. Pour over top.
  6. Bake 35-45 mins until set. (When you take the quiche out of the oven, the middle of the pie should not jiggle)
 
Signature
Filed Under: Breakfast, Cooking For A Crowd ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday!

April 27, 2012 · by · 16 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!
Whatcha got cookin this weekend?

This homemade salsa is one of my all-time favorite recipes. I literally make it every week to snack on, to have over a salad for lunch, and/or to top off grilled chicken. Courtney is making some today at Women Living Well…come visit us there!

Friday’s Top 3 Recipes

{in no particular order}

Italian Tomato Salad Dressing

Made By: Susan Godfrey

Amazing Maple Baked Beans

Made By: Michelle Day @ Inspired by Family

Smores Pizza

Made By: Dancing with Cinderella

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship LINK UP! Don’t you just love Fridays?!I know I sure do because I LOVE to see what you have cooking in your kitchens…what a blessing to see other women serving their family and friends. It may seem like a small task, but it isn’t. To all of my friends preparing meals: know that you set the mood for fellowship, you motivate gatherings, you make people want to get together! Isn’t that a wonderful thought?

Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, and/or seasonal posts below. All I ask is that you place my button {located on my sidebar} on your post. Thank you for tweeting/pinning/and Fbing so more friends can come join us!

*** By the way**** All of the TOP PICKS will be added to my Pin Board labeled “Top Picks From My Fellow Food Bloggers”. Congratulations! I love showing you off!

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Loaded Nachos

April 25, 2012 · by · 7 Comments

Mmmm….there hasn’t been a nacho that I haven’t adored…and this is recipe is no exception! I love making nachos because they are so simple…most of the ingredients you can get ahead of time and have on hand. They are great for company- load em up and pop em in the oven, a couple of mins under the broiler and they are done! Trust me, there won’t be a chip left!

Saute 1 lb of your choice of meat {I used ground turkey, because I was being so health conscious}, then add 1 taco seasoning pack with 1/3 cup water.

I wasn’t planning on making nachos- but I had all of this on hand, so why not! We were painting……we hadn’t had lunch or dinner yet, it just seemed right.

So, here we have refried beans, white cheese, pepper jack cheese, jalps, salsa {I typically make my own salsa, but Newman’s own was sufficient} and some sour cream. The great thing about nachos is that you really can’t go wrong making them…. it’s fine to use different kinds of cheeses {cheddar is great!} and add your favorite toppings {love guacamole too!}. You can even choose different meats {roaster chicken, shrimp, crab, beef, etc}.

Lay out corn tortilla chips on a foil lined baking sheet { you can also use a round pizza pan with edges}.

These are my absolute favorite corn tortilla chips…they are sold in my grocery store in the Mexican Aisle. 

Add your favorite toppings all over {save your salsa, guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo for after broiling}.

Broil on high for 2-3 mins.


Top with sour cream and salsa! Enjoy!

Loaded Nachos
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 2 mins
Total time: 17 mins
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground turkey {or meat of your choice}
  • 1 taco seasoning packet
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1 cup refried beans
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese {Pepper Jack shown}
  • 3/4 cup white queso {optional}
  • 1/2 cup sliced jalapenos
  • Salsa/Sour Cream/Guacamole {optional}
  • 1 bag corn tortilla chips
Instructions
  1. Brown ground turkey, then add taco seasoning and 1/3 cup water and let simmer for 5 mins.
  2. Lay out chips onto a foil lined baking sheet.
  3. Add seasoned meat and toppings of choice you want to broil.
  4. Broil on high for 2-3 mins until cheese is melted.
  5. Top with cool toppings {salsa, sour cream, etc}.
Signature
Filed Under: Appetizers, Cooking For A Crowd, Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly ·

He sees it all.

April 23, 2012 · by · 17 Comments

 

{Me and my ornery Julia-she has given me more laughs than I can count, I absolutely ADORE this child! It’s a blessing to be her mom}

The other day I caught our sweet little three year old “red and tight lipped”. She was in the computer room playing, carrying on with her business, and hoping I didn’t notice the large smear of lipstick that stood out over her lips. I quickly got my camera to film her…all along, I wondered if she would confess to this artistry.

Ladies, let me tell you- it was haaaaaard not to giggle, you may even hear my voice’s aching to do so in this video. Here we go….

I can’t tell you how many times we have all watched this video. My husband thought it was hysterical and the other two kids kept asking me to play it over and over and they giggled. Julia even wanted me to play it over again and laughed at herself after she realized how silly it was to tell Mama a fib when the truth was so blatant. It was a humorous, yet teachable moment in the life of that sweet babe of mine. She always keeps me on my toes. For those who know her and I personally, you certainly know what I am talking about!

Motherhood really “paints” a picture of what God must see when he looks at us. So often we think we are hiding from Him…that perhaps, he may not see what we are doing! But, he does. As evident as my little girl wearing it on her face…we wear all of our deeds-both good and bad, on ours. There is no getting around our Father.

  • When we don’t put aside time for Him, he notices.
  • When we don’t prayerfully consider things, He sees where our will is going.
  • If we lust, steal, get drunk, give into material things- He knows our heart.
  • When we are obedient and love others dispite them loving us, He sees.
  • When we pray for our enemies, He hears.
  • When we give our finances in tithing; and even when we don’t. He knows.

In scripture:

He knows the ins and outs of our day; all of our actions and thoughts are transparent. He sees into our homes, schools and places of work: “For His eyes are upon the ways of a men, and He sees their every step.” ~Job 34:21

He is glad with us, even when no one else knows the good we do: “Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” ~Matthew 6:4

There isn’t anything He doesn’t see: “For He views the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens.” ~Job 28:24

My prayer:

Lord, search our hearts, help us to be more like you! We can’t help but to fall into sin, but we are so thankful for the forgiveness and love you shower upon us. Help us to confess all of our transgressions so we can live our lives as blamelessly as possible and in Your will. Amen.

 

Ladies, are there any moments that have happened in your motherhood that has painted a picture like the one above? Please share!

I would love to hear how the Lord is working in YOUR lives!

Signature
Filed Under: Devotionals, Uncategorized ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday and Featured Recipes

April 20, 2012 · by · 12 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!!!! 

Have you seen Roomag’s new look this week? It is just beautiful! Come visit me over there where I am sharing this delicious “broiled scallop” recipe…Something about the warmer weather makes me crave a good ole , fashioned seafood dinner! Serve with fresh corn on the cob, a baked potato buffet, and sweet tea– a meal with few steps but many smiles!

Roo Mag

I’m also visiting my friend Courtney at Women Living Well! She is sharing one of my favorite simple breakfasts…Oatmeal with Peanut butter. It’s a great combination of carbs and protein. There is just something about melting peanut butter that makes me want to get up in the morning 🙂

Friday’s Top 3 Picks.

Oven Fried Chimichangas

Made By: Sugar Free Mom

Chicken Pot Pie with Cheddar Crust

Made By: Making Home Sweeter

Awesome Spinach Artichoke Dip

Made By: Back for Seconds

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Friday Link up! Please link up your recipe, christian, and/or of the season posts. Please link as many as you wish, all I ask is that you place my button {located on my side bar} onto your post. Thank you SO very much for sharing the love and tweeting/fbing that you are bringing a dish on Comfy in the Kitchen!

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Chicken ‘n Waffles

April 18, 2012 · by · 3 Comments

Has she lost her marbles? Chicken n Waffles?! Whaaaa?

Oh yeah….Chicken n Waffles.

It was 12 years ago when I first tried this odd yet yummy combination. I was so perplexed when I saw it printed on the cafeteria menu as the lunch entree of the day. Knowing and trusting the chef…I decided to give it a go.  The line was long…but it was worth it! The sweet and savory flavor reeled me in…it’s not the fanciest of dishes, but grownups and kids alike savor every bite. I even have it mastered the gluten-free way {although you can simply stick with your typical method of waffles if you don’t have to consider that}. Enjoy!{For lunch or dinner}

Slice chicken into strips, rinse and blot with paper towels.

In a large Ziploc add 3 cups of corn flakes, salt and pepper. {If you have a gluten intolerance use gluten-free corn flakes of your choice}.

Crush finely.

Beat eggs in a small dish and dip each chicken strip.

Place about 2-3 chicken strips in bag at a time and toss gently, coating each one with a cornflake crust.

Place each chicken strip on a foil lined pan. Bake in a 425 oven for 15 mins or until done.

Make waffles as you desire {I used GF Hodgson Mill in this photo, but I prefer GF Bisquick, hands down!}

Make on a waffle iron until steam seeps out the back and waffles are crisp and lightly browned. Make sure not to add too much batter to the iron {about 1/4 cup will do per waffle}.

Top with butter and warm syrup {My old work even went so far to put whipped cream and strawberries on top!} If you haven’t tried this…I dare ya! No, I double dog dare ya. 😉

Chicken n Waffle
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 15 mins
Total time: 25 mins
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • 4 chicken breasts sliced into strips
  • 2 eggs
  • Waffle mix with ingredients per box instructions {measured for 4-6 ppl}
  • 3 cups corn flakes
  • salt/pepper
  • butter/syrup
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 425; Preheat waffle iron.
  2. Slice uncooked chicken breasts into strips and rinse.
  3. Pat dry with paper towel.
  4. Place cornflakes in large ziploc and crush finely, add salt and pepper.
  5. In a medium bowl beat 2 eggs.
  6. Dip each chicken strip into eggs, then toss into cornflakes.
  7. Place chicken onto foil lined pan and bake at 425 for 15 mins or until done.
  8. In the meantime make waffles per box instructions.
  9. Place chicken onto waffles…serve with butter and warm syrup.

 

Signature
Filed Under: Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly ·

Pistachio Delight {Watergate Salad}

April 16, 2012 · by · 9 Comments

Can anyone tell me why this is called “Watergate Salad”? Hehe…I decided to change it to “Pistachio Delight” because, well….Watergate was a scandal, and this is more…delightful! This is an especially sweet Spring treat for the kidos…they love all the colors. Serve as a side or dessert, it will be sure to please the little ones {and bigger ones} at your table. 

Pour 1 pint whipping cream and 1/4 cup sugar in a large mixing bowl. 

Beat on high until soft peaks form like so…you can over beat, so be careful to stop when the whipping cream looks like the picture above.

Add 1 small box of instant Pistachio pudding mix.

Then add 1 can of fruit cocktail {you certainly may add fresh fruit instead-I have tried mandarine oranges and bananas}, 1 cup coconut, and one cup of multi colored marshmallows- be careful of tiny hands. {I had to hurry up and mix this, lol!}

Also add in crushed pineapple and nuts {optional}. You can do this in all one step, lol…

Stir by hand until all is combined.

LOVE! Wouldn’t this make such a sweet dish for a baby shower? The colors are so pretty…and it’s so delicious!  

Pistachio Delight {Watergate Salad}
Prep time: 10 mins
Total time: 10 mins
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1 pint whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 small box instant pistachio pudding
  • 1(20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 1 (15 oz) can fruit cocktail, drained
  • 1 cup multi-colored marshmallows
  • 1 cup coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans {optional}
Instructions
  1. Beat whipping cream and sugar in a large bowl until soft peaks form.
  2. Add box of pistachio pudding and beat together.
  3. Add remaining ingredients and stir well.
Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly, Salads, Sides, Uncategorized ·

It’s Friday! Featured Recipes and Link Up Time!

April 13, 2012 · by · 10 Comments

Happy Friday!


Ahhh….this is one of my absolute favorite salads. I’ve made it twice this week and will be making it a third time for a birthday party over the weekend. Not only is it refreshing and delicious, it’s super easy! I love that there is very little chopping/cutting involved. Come visit me over at Women Living Well where I am sharing the recipe!

Friday’s Top 3 Recipes: 

Simple Nutritious Breakfast Bars

Made By: Walnut Acre

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cupcakes

Made By: The Sweet Bliss Bakery

Berry Pie in a Clay Saucer

Made By: Simply…This, That, and The Other. 

It’s a Feasting In Fellowship LINK-UP! Please link up as many recipes, Christian related posts and/or seasonal posts as you wish! All I ask if that you place my button {located on my sidebar} onto your post.Thank you for tweeting and FBing that you are sharing on Comfy in the Kitchen! Thank you so much…I LOVE to see what YOU have cooking!

P.S. Your recipes have been HUGE hits on Pinterest! Wohoo!

 

Signature
Filed Under: Food Allergy Friendly ·

Grilled Veggie Salad

April 11, 2012 · by · 5 Comments

“I am a HUGE veggie AND salad lover. This was a meal I made for my husband and I the other night. The mixture of textures and temperature is delicious. You can also add your choice of meat to the top if you wish. A very healthy and yummy meal…enjoy often.”

*Recipe featured on Women Living Well.

Slice onions and red pepper

Heat grill to medium high heat. Drizzle veggies with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, seasoned salt, and freshly ground pepper. Grill appx 5 mins a side until browned but still crisp. The flavor of grilled veggies is AMAZING!!!

Tear apart and rinse 1 head of your favorite lettuce. Drizzle with balsamic and olive oil.

 

Season with seasoned salt and freshly ground pepper
 

Veggies are done!

Serve on top of salad greens and ENJOY! A guilt-free delicious Spring meal.

Grilled Veggie Salad
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 10 mins
Total time: 20 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 onion sliced
  • 1 red pepper sliced
  • 1 bunch of asparagus with ends snapped off
  • 1 head of lettuce (of your liking)
  • Balsamic Vinegar
  • Olive Oil
  • Seasoned Salt
  • Ground Pepper
Instructions
  1. Heat grill to med-high heat.
  2. Place sliced veggies in a grill pan and drizzle with balsamic and vinegar.
  3. Sprinkle with seasoned salt and pepper.
  4. Grill for 5 mins, turn and grill for another 5 mins.
  5. Veggies will have a nice “grill” look to them, but still be crisp. Place on plate.
  6. Wash and tear lettuce and set on individual plates.
  7. Drizzle with balsamic and olive oil, season with seasoned salt and pepper.
  8. Top with veggies. Mmmmm…..one of my favorite salads!
Signature
Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Food Allergy Friendly, Salads ·

It’s Friday! Easter Egg Toast -Top 3 and a LINK UP!

April 6, 2012 · by · 15 Comments

Happy Easter weekend to all of you! 

No matter what is going on in our lives, who we are missing, praying for, or how we are feeling….there is no doubt that we are blessed. Christ died for our sins and rose so that we could be with Him in eternity. There just isn’t a gift in the world that could top that…. 

Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.~Romans 6:8-11 

 

Want to know my hubby’s favorite Easter breakfast? Come visit me over at Women Living Well for the recipe….I am sure it will be a staple in your home for years to come! It’s a great way to use up those Easter Eggs! 

Friday’s Top 3 Recipes. 
Made By: Inspired By Family

Chocolate Rice Krispie Egg Baskets

Made By: Will Cook For Smiles

Made By: Making Home Sweeter
 
What an amazing line up! Thank you to all who contribute to Feast in Fellowship Friday!!! Please spread the word by tweeting/face-booking/ pinning! xoxox.
It’s  LINK UP TIME! Please feel free to link up as many posts as you wish. All I ask is that you place my button {located on my sidebar} on your post. Link ups need to be a recipe, Christian related or of the season. Thanks again! Can’t wait to see what you have in store!
 

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Special Guest Week~Angela@Good Morning Girls {Easy Peanut Butter Pie}

April 5, 2012 · by · 15 Comments

Hi Ladies! Oh, do I love this recipe….it is simple, requires no baking, and is absolutely delicious. I don’t know about you, but anything peanut butter related is hard to resist…this is a delicious cool dessert for a special Spring/Summer treat! Thanks to my very sweet friend Angela from Good Morning Girls who is sharing this yummy recipe!

Angela says that this is one of her husband’s favorite recipes!!!  

 

 

Mix all together (except 1 pint of Cool Whip….use that pint to cover the top of the pie)

Refrigerate for a few hours

Spread with remaining Cool Whip and garnish as desired.

Voilà! You have a super easy and yummy dessert that people will beg you to make again and again!

Peanut Butter Pie
Prep time: 5 mins
Total time: 5 mins
Serves: 8
Angela with Good Morning Girls.
Ingredients
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 pints cool whip
  • 1 graham cracker crust
Instructions
  1. Mix together peanut butter, cream cheese, condensed milk and 1 pint of Cool Whip.
  2. Place filling in crust.
  3. Refrigerate 3 hours.
  4. Top with remaining 1 pint of Cool Whip.

Are YOU a “Good Morning Girl”? I SURE am! If you haven’t already…please go check the Good Morning Girls website and pray if the Lord is leading you in the way of gathering a group of girls up {or joining on an existing one!} to give you  daily motivation in your prayer life. Angela offers such encouragement on this blog…I especially love her online studies! She is the mother of 3 beautiful little girls…her love for God, family and life brightly shines through her service on the Good Morning Girls website.   

Signature
Filed Under: Dessert ·

Joy @ Grace Full Mama {Chicken Satay}

April 4, 2012 · by · 4 Comments


Oohhhh Ladies, this is a GOOD one. My friend Joy from “Grace Full Mama” agreed to share her delicious (and authentic!) recipe for Chicken Satay!! Joy and her family are missionaries in Indonesia and this one of their favorite  native recipes…you are going to love it!

Joy Says:

Chicken Satay is one of my all-time favorite Indonesian dishes.  Here is a recipe for how we make it here {thank you to my dear friend Beth for the recipe!}.

Chicken Satay
Prep time: 40 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 1 hour
Serves: 6
Joy from Grace Full Mama
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs. ground coriander
  • 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
  • 1tsp. salt 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 chicken bouillon cube
  • 1 Tbs. sugar
  • 1 tsp. white pepper
  • 1/4 cup sweet soy sauce (or add a small amount of brown sugar to regular soy sauce)
  • 2 Tbs. oil
  • Peanut Sauce:
  • 2 Tbs. creamy peanut butter
  • 2 Tbs. soy sauce
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 Tbs. brown sugar
  • In a non-stick pan, combine all ingredients, stirring constantly over medium heat until peanut butter has melted. Spoon over rice and chicken. Enjoy!!
Instructions
  1. Mix together coriander, salt, garlic, bouillon, sugar, pepper, soy, brown sugar, oil in a casserole dish.
  2. Add chicken and let marinate for 30 mins.
  3. Put on skewers and grill.
  4. Serve with peanut sauce, grilled veggies, and rice.

 

If you haven’t already visited Grace Full Mama, please take a moment and take a look around. This is one of my favorite blogs! Joy is truly living the Christian life…she home schools her 5 (yes 5!) very young children, is spreading God’s word in a different country, and has learned a new language and way of life. Her love for her Indonesian community is so evident…you simply must hear it from her. Take a second to “like” her FB page too- you will get her updates! I am a huge fan and we got to room together at Relevant…she is remarkable in every way.

Signature
Filed Under: Appetizers, Entrees, Uncategorized ·

Special Guest Week- Clare @ Peak313-Black Bean Dip

April 3, 2012 · by · 9 Comments

(Clare from Peak 313 shares her delicious bean dip! A “Comfy in my Jeans” recipe! )

Ohhh Ladies- I have been a privileged recipient of Clare’s deeeeeelicious bean dip! Let me tell you, this is a recipe to save! The best part for me is the avocados…yum! Once you take a bite, you can’t stop. Ask Courtney from Women Living Well– us girls had a party around this dip! hehe! 

Clare writes: 

There’s no question about it. You will make this dip and people will ask for it again and again and again! It’s a little labor intensive, but SO worth it!

In a bowl, combine avocados and lime juice; let stand for 10 minutes.

In large bowl, combine the corn, beans, red pepper, onions, cilantro and garlic. (I got camera happy and snapped before cilantro went in. Oops!)

In a small bowl, whisk the oil, vinegar, salt and pepper. Drizzle over corn mixture; toss to coat.Gently fold in the avocado mixture.

Cover and  refrigerate for at least 2 hrs or until chilled. Serve with tortilla chips or in a pita.

 

Special Guest Week- Clare @ Peak313-Black Bean Dip
Prep time: 10 mins
Total time: 10 mins
Serves: 6
Clare from Peak313
Ingredients
  • 2 medium ripe avocados, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 can whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped
  • 6 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
  1. Mix all together and enjoy with chips, on tortillas or on top of lettuce!
 Looking for some motivation in the gym? Come visit my friend Clare over at Peak313. She is actually one of my “in-person” friends- her love for the Lord, physical fitness and people is so REAL and SO contagious. Thanks for this amazing recipe my friend! 

Signature
Filed Under: Appetizers, Comfy In My Jeans, Salads, Uncategorized ·

Special Guest Week!!! Darlene @ The BEST Bolognese

April 2, 2012 · by · 4 Comments

Time-Warp Wife - Empowering Wives to Joyfully Serve

Hi Ladies! This week is a SPECIAL GUEST week here on Comfy in the Kitchen! I have asked some of my online friends for their all time “best” recipes- I am SO excited they were willing to share and can’t wait to share them with YOU!

Here is a very special friend of mine, Darlene Schacht from The Time Warp Wife– She is here giving us her delicious Bolognese sauce recipe…like all “best recipes”, there is a secret ingredient that gives it a special “kick!”.

Darlene says:

“Bolognese” – that’s a word we never used growing up. The only name my family had for it was spaghetti sauce. In recent years I discovered that “bolognese” is the correct name for it, and that the dish originated from Bologna, Italy–thus the name. (A little useless fact I’m throwing out there.)

Anyone can make spaghetti sauce, in fact it’s one of the first meals that I ever learned to cook. But after 23 years I realized that I wasn’t making it as well as I could be and so I tweaked the recipe a few months back. A few small changes have made a big difference in the taste, and my family LOVES it!

*For a gluten free meal- make with rice noodles!

 


Best Bolognese
Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 30 mins
Total time: 50 mins
Serves: 6
Made By Darlene Schacht from The Time Warp Wife
Ingredients
  • 1 pound of extra lean ground beef
  • 2 chopped tomatoes
  • 1 cup of fresh mushrooms – sliced (optional)
  • 1 clove of garlic – minced
  • 1 medium onion – chopped
  • 2 Tb. basil
  • 1 Tb. oregano
  • 1 Tb. of powdered beef stock (this is my secret weapon!)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 400 ml tomato sauce (average sized can)
  • 150 ml tomato paste (tiny can)
Instructions
  1. Brown the grown beef.
  2. Add the chopped tomatoes, garlic, onion, basil, oregano, beef stalk, salt and pepper (also mushrooms if you like) – continue to brown for a bit. I brown it until the tomatoes look cooked.
  3. Add the tomato sauce and the tomato paste.
  4. Note that I have only added a small can of tomato paste. This is because the flavor is very strong. Really the only reason I use it is to thicken the sauce.
  5. Simmer on medium low for about 30 minutes
  6. Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles.

Darlene- thank you so much for sharing this recipe with us today! I can almost smell this delicious sauce simmering on the stove right now!!! Mmmmm….

Ladies, if you are looking for encouragement Darlene had a beautiful  Christian blog that gives excellent tips on ways to serve your family. She is also the NY Times bestselling co-author of Reshaping it All with Candace Cameron Bure, and has a new book out called “The Good Wife’s Guide”.

Signature
Filed Under: Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly, Uncategorized ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday and Link up!

March 30, 2012 · by · 10 Comments

Can you believe it’s Friday already?

It crept right up on me, but I am not complaining! I hope that you have had a wonderful week and are getting ready for all the festivities leading up to Easter.

I wanted to take a minute and share with you the most beautiful display that a restaurant in our town has up….what a blessing it is to the community that this establishment is outward in their faith. We live in a dry village that has no freeway access- yet thousands of people come to eat here (even from out of state)- God blesses those who boast in Him-how awesome!

Searching for some more Easter recipes? Come check out Women Living Well today! Courtney has some delicious things cooking in her kitchen! You don’t want to miss her Easter lineup!

Fridays Top 3

Easter Resurrection Garden

Made By: The Encouraging Home

(ok, it isn’t a recipe- but it is so worth featuring)

(Credit:Melissa Holt)

Olive Garden “Copycat” Salad

Made By: The Joy of Everyday Cooking

Lime Infused Coconut Macaroons

Made By: Simply…this, that and the other.

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship LINK UP! Please link up as many recipes, Christian posts, and/or Holiday inspired posts as you like. All I ask is that you add my button (located on the sidebar) to your post. Share the love by tweeting and FB to your friends. Thanks so much- enjoy your weekend my friends!

 

Powered by Linky Tools

 

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Easter Eggs @The Better Mom

March 29, 2012 · by · Leave a Comment

It’s that time of year again Ladies!!! Get out your pots, eggs, and coloring tools (oh, and the kidos too-hehe) and let the Easter festivities begin! Did you know there is a certain way to “boil” eggs? Come visit me over at The Better Mom to find out how….

Signature
Filed Under: Uncategorized ·

An Easter Spread

March 28, 2012 · by · 8 Comments

Hi Ladies! I get asked quite a bit how I would create a “spread” for a gathering. Today I want to do just that- here is an example of an “Easter Spread” for your family and friends! Please use this tool to help make your Easter just a little easier. If you are having guests bring a dish (which I am completely fine with!) you can send them on over this way for proven recipes that are sure to please. There is nothing wrong with being specific about what your needs are-your loved ones want to help! Have you ever been to a gathering with 3 dishes of cheesy potatoes and no veggies? I sure have! 

Easy Spinach Dip- 

Have this set out when guests arrive.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

I always start off with a salad-this one is one of my favorites. I get asked all the time for the recipe.

Rhodes Dinner Rolls

All you do is thaw, let rise and bake. These are incredibly good- you can make your own from scratch, but why when these are every bit as good! 

An Easter Ham

A Classic.

 Cheesy Potatoes

Another crowd pleaser!

Classic Green Beans

Simple and you can make them ahead of time- just set on low and cover.

Fresh Corn Casserole

(Ree Drummond)

Oh yum. 

Carrot Cake 

(Paula Deen)

My Father-in-Law’s favorite. 

Easter Bunny Cupcakes

What child wouldn’t smile? 

I hope this serves you well – please feel free to add links to your comments of YOUR favorite Easter recipes! I can’t wait to hear all about them 🙂 

Signature
Filed Under: Seasonal ·

Loving little, is big.

March 26, 2012 · by · 24 Comments

“Do not think that love in order to be genuine has to be extraordinary. What we need is to love without getting tired. Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.” 
― Mother Teresa

 loving others does not have to be imaginative, wrapped with a handmade bow, or something pretty on a stick. Love comes in a variety of packages and is available for anyone to give …at any time, as long as that person is willing. 

Please do not feel like your home has to be perfect to invite someone into it… That you have to look perfect to approach someone…to have a theme in order to have a gathering, be an amazing cook, or have something important to talk about.  Loving others without planning is so okay. 

I had the blessing of  hostessing a sleepover/playdate for my son this weekend. Nothing I share with you is  worth “pinning”, but ladies….the memories these boys made together fishing in my backyard was priceless. I didn’t make anything special, or decorate, or even plan an event. I just let them be boys. 

Here was their weekend…

They fished, for what had to be 12 hours. Not kidding. 

I bought them night crawlers….did you hear that? Night crawlers were in my refrigerator. Eww.

My son ran in to get me when they caught this one…he was a doozy!

I was there to take this picture and rejoice with them …

“I want to be the Mom who has the kids at her house”…words I told my hubby when we first had our son.  

Nothing to “Pin” here! It’s what I had on hand- burger melts, cheese curls, mixed berries, cottage cheese, pickles and juice boxes. That’s it. 

They ate every bite and loved it. 

They had tasty food and got to eat it together! 

They fished some more, then I called them in for some chocolate cake and milk. 

It was warm and it made them smile….the chocolatey kind of smile. 

May you love little in a big way this week. 

Signature
Filed Under: Devotionals, Kiddos, Uncategorized ·

A Life that says “Welcome” and the “5 senses of Hospitality”

March 24, 2012 · by · Leave a Comment

Hi Ladies! I am so excited to be a part of Karen Ehman’s Hospitality Study! Please come visit me over at her blog where I share the “5 senses of hospitality” and how to be a hostess with the mostess!

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy Talk, Uncategorized ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday- Resurrection Rolls (link up!)

March 23, 2012 · by · 18 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!

My friend Courtney from Women Living Well is baking up some awesome Easter treats for us! Please come take a look at her Resurrections Rolls…what a great recipe to make with the children and at the same time teach them all about the true meaning of Easter.

These are so simple and look delicious!

Be sure to *pin* this one on your Easter Recipe Board! 

DSC01407.JPG.jpg
Top 3 Picks of the Week! 

South of the Border Breakfast

Made By: Inspired By Family

Cheerio Treats!

Made By: Merry, Married, Mary Mom

Photobucket

Butterfly Cupcakes

Made By: Baking {and cooking} with Giggle Girl

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Friday Link up! Please link up as many posts as you wish! All I ask is that you place my button (located on my sidebar). Posts may be recipe, christian or holiday in nature. Thanks so much!!

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Chicken and Rice Soup

March 21, 2012 · by · 12 Comments


This Chicken and Rice soup is so savory, so yummy, so allergy friendly, so kid friendly….so blog worthy 🙂 This is a great recipe to make for someone who is not feeling well- the combination of chicken (boiled with bones on) and rice is very easy on the stomach and has healing properties to boot! Love IT! 

Don’t let the “time” it takes to make this scare you off- it is a very easy soup to make…it’s just simmer time. Make this on one of your cleaning days (thats what I did!)

Making the broth:

Chicken breasts- very important that it has skin on and bones in- this gives more flavor to the water and adds healing properties. carrots, onions, parsley, garlic, celery, bay leaves.

Boil all together

Add lemon juice and let boil for 2 1/2 hours.

Prepare rice

When stock is done simmering, take the chicken (and bay leaves) out. 

Pull skin aside and “fork” the meat off of the bones. Place chunks of chicken back into broth. 

Add a 32 oz carton of chicken broth to homemade chicken broth. This gives it added flavor without adding “bouillon cubes”  – if you have a gluten intolerance bouillon has wheat in it, so stay clear- if you do not have an intolerance, you may certainly add them instead of adding broth

(appx 4 bouillons and appx 2 more cups of water).

Melt 1 stick of butter and make a roux by adding 2 Tbsp of cornstarch

(for those with no allergies- you may use 4 Tbsp of flour in place of cornstarch)


This is a thickening agent for the soup…add this to the broth. 

Add rice and let it simmer for 1 hour on low heat. Season to you liking with salt and pepper. 

Some seriously delicious soup…Mmmmmm…


And best yet, kid approved and loved! YES!!!

Chicken and Rice Soup
Prep time: 30 mins
Cook time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 30 mins
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • Broth:
  • 8 cups of water
  • 4 chicken breasts with bones and skin ON
  • 2 cloves of chopped garlic
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley (you can use a few shakes of dry if you need to)
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 bay leaves (whole)
  • 32 oz carton of chicken broth (this adds flavor)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
  • 2 Tbsp corn starch (you may use 4 Tbsp of flour if you prefer/have no allergies)
  • 4 cups COOKED rice (per package instructions)
  • salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. In a large pot on the stove place chicken, water, garlic, parsley, onion, celery carrots, lemon juice, and bay leaves on medium high heat. Let simmer for 2 1/2 hours.
  2. After 2 1/2 hours, take bay leaves out.
  3. Take chicken out of pot (leave veggies in). Pull aside skin and fork meat off of bones, place chunks of chicken back into pot of broth.
  4. Add carton of chicken broth to homemade broth.
  5. Prepare rice per package instructions and add to broth.
  6. Melt butter on stove top in separate pan- add cornstarch (or flour) to make a roux. Add this to broth.
  7. Let soup simmer on stove for one hour.
  8. Season with salt/pepper to your liking.
Signature
Filed Under: Food Allergy Friendly, Soups, Uncategorized ·

Macadamia Nut Waffles With Coconut ~ Thumbs up GF Bisquick!

March 19, 2012 · by · 8 Comments


Every time I try a “gluten free” product that impresses me, I want to share it with my girls who are on the GF journey with me! Let me tell you…Bisquick GF is delicious (and SO easy)! A few additions spruced ordinary waffles to into “Macadamia Nut Waffles with Coconut”…dot with some butter and warm maple syrup and Mmmmmm!!!!! I don’t miss that gluten one bit! haha. 


Bisquick mix, milk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla, chopped macadamia nuts

Heat waffle iron and spray with non stick oil (Pam). Pour 1/2 cup batter onto center of each portion of iron. Bake appx 5 mins until lightly golden. Repeat until batter is used. 

Macadamia Nut Waffles with Coconut ~ Thumbs up GF Bisquick!
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 5 mins
Total time: 10 mins
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 1/3 cup Gluten Free Bisquick
  • 1 1/4 cups milk
  • 3 Tbsp Oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
  • 1/2 cup coconut (garnish)
Instructions
  1. Heat waffle iron.
  2. In a medium bowl add Bisquick, milk, oil, egg, vanilla and 1/4 cup nuts.
  3. Spray iron with Pam.
  4. Add 1/2 cup batter per waffle and press together- bake appx 5 mins.
  5. Top waffles with coconut and a sprinkle of macadamia nuts- dot with butter and drizzle with warm maple syrup.
Signature
Filed Under: Breakfast, Food Allergy Friendly ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday 3-16-12

March 16, 2012 · by · 20 Comments

Top of the Mornin to Ya! Hooooray for Friday!

“Hop” on over to Women Living Well where I am sharing how to make these ADORABLE Easter Bunny cupcakes– these will be sure to please the little ones in your life!


Top 3 Picks of the Week

Lucky Pot O Pasta Salad

Made By: Will Cook for Smiles

Oat Fruit Breakfast Bars (allergy friendly!)

Made By: Sugar Free Mom

 

Oatmeal Bar

Made By: Simply… This, That and the other

EASY St. Patty’s Day Recipes – “Going Green”! 

St Patty’s Day Popcorn

Made By: Taste of Home

St. Patrick's Day Popcorn Recipe

Easy Cucumber Sandwiches 

Made By: Comfy in the Kitchen

Pot O Gold

Family Fun Magazine

(This is how I make finger jell-O)

St. Patrick's Pot of Gold

Potato Pancakes (or Boxty) 

Made By: Comfy in the Kitchen

It’s a Feasting in Fellowship Friday LINK UP!

Please share as many posts as you wish! Recipes, Christian posts and seasonal posts are welcome and enjoyed! I love to see what you have cookin! All I ask is that you place my button (located on my side bar) onto your post. Have a wonderful weekend ladies! 

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays, Uncategorized ·

Creamy Beef Taquitos

March 13, 2012 · by · 8 Comments


What a blessing it is that my husband’s company is so close to home. We take full advantage of more time together and cherish our lunch dates. This is something I made for us for lunch last week and thought I would share! These are not only yummy but very easy to make (and yes, for those of us with allergies- it is naturally allergy friendly!). Serve with homemade salsa!

Creamy Beef Taquitos
Prep time: 25 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 45 mins
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • 12 corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup Salsa Fiesta (This is a mix of salsa and cream cheese- you can buy it pre-made at the grocery store, or mix 1/2 parts of each to make your own)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Instructions
  1. Heat oven to 425, line baking sheet with foil and spray with Pam.
  2. Cook ground beef on stove and season with cumin, chili powder, onion powder and garlic powder.
  3. Place tortillas on a plate and cover with a damp paper towel- microwave for 1 min to soften.
  4. Spread Salsa Fiesta on tortilla, place about 1/4 cup cooked ground beef 1/2 inch from edge of tortilla and sprinkle with cheese.
  5. Roll up and place seam down on baking sheet.
  6. Repeat with the rest of ingredients.
  7. Spray or brush tops with vegetable oil.
  8. Bake for 15-20 mins until golden brown.
  9. Serve with homemade salsa!
Signature
Filed Under: Appetizers, Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly ·

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese (Can make it Food Allergy Friendly!)

March 12, 2012 · by · 7 Comments

Oh. Wow. This recipe may not get a prize for guiltless pleasure….but let me tell you something- it is AWESOME. I have to really like something to have it for leftovers. I had this for dinner, then a second bowl at 8pm then for lunch the next day, and then seconds.  UGH! I can’t think of a time I have ever done this! lol! Nevertheless, I had to share it with you….be careful-it’s addicting!

P.S.- Guess what?! 6 months on a strict “elimination diet”  and I have just found out that my diary intolerance is very mild-so I can have it sparingly! Wohoo. I *may have over done it a bit in this dish, shhhh.  No eggs or gluten for life, but it’s ok if I can splurge every so often on treats like this one!

Dice onions and celery

Boil elbow noodles until al dente (package instructions). These are gluten-free rice noodles…very little difference. (bread, that is a different story)

Shred a purchased rotisserie chicken by pulling it apart into chunks with a fork. Mmm…these always smell so good.

Saute onions, and celery in butter and add chicken and garlic.

Add Franks Red Hot Sauce

Slice Pepper Jack and Cheddar Cheeses…

In a sauce pan melt butter, add flour (This was gluten- free flour).

Add milk,  half and half, and the rest of the hot sauce until thickened. Then add cheese.

Add sour cream


Stir …oh is this yummy.

Melt remaining butter in a small bowl, add crushed corn flakes and blue cheese. (If you are not gluten intolerant, Panko also works well!)


In a prepared pan add half the macaroni, then cheese sauce, repeat. Add topping and bake 30-40 mins. This is so good…seriously.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese (Food Allergy Friendly too!)
Author: Adapted from Food Network
Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 40 mins
Total time: 1 hour
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • Ingredients
  • 7 tablespoons butter
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni (I used gluten- free elbow noodles)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 1 rotisserie chicken (flaked with fork)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup hot sauce (preferably Frank’s)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (I used gluten- free flour)
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup half and half
  • 8 ounces yellow sharp cheddar cheese cut into cubes
  • 8 ounces pepper jack cheese cut into cubes
  • 2/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup crushed cornflakes
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
  2. Butter a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain.
  4. Meanwhile, melt 3 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the onion and celery and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in the chicken and garlic and cook 2 minutes
  7. Add 1/2 cup hot sauce and simmer until slightly thickened, about 1 more minute.
  8. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  9. Stir in the flour with a wooden spoon until smooth.
  10. Whisk in the milk and half-and-half, then add the remaining 1/4 cup hot sauce and stir until thick, about 2 minutes.
  11. Whisk in the cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, then whisk in the sour cream until smooth.
  12. Spread half of the macaroni in the prepared baking dish, then top with the chicken mixture and the remaining macaroni.
  13. Pour the cheese sauce evenly on top.
  14. Put the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl and microwave until melted. Stir in the corn flakes, blue cheese.
  15. Sprinkle over the macaroni and bake until bubbly, 30 to 40 minutes.
  16. Let rest 10 minutes before serving

 

Signature
Filed Under: Cooking For A Crowd, Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly, Uncategorized ·

Crescent Chicken

March 11, 2012 · by · 30 Comments
*This is a repost- for some reason the other link is not working- I have received quite a few e-mails about this particular recipe. So sorry- I will be looking into the original link. 


This delicious recipe comes from my Grandma (or “Nana B” as we call her)…I have wonderful memories coming home from college to this delicious home cooked meal. It has become one of my husband’s favorites too. I like serving it along side of mashed potatoes …. the cream of chicken soup serves as a delicious gravy. Enjoy this simple yet delicious meal! 
~Janelle 
Crescent rolls, chopped and cooked chicken (I simply boil chicken breasts and cut), cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup (milk).
Make soup in a medium saucepan using milk according to directions.  
Lay out one crescent roll at a time and place appx 3-4 bite sized pieces of chicken and appx 1Tbsp of cheese in the center of each triangle. 
Gently roll up
Seal edges by pinching the dough. (You will not get perfection, just make sure the filling cannot leak out)
Place all of your rolls in a 9×13 dish and pour soup mixture over top ( salt and pepper as desired).
Bake at 350 for 30 mins until crescents are golden brown
Serve with mashed potatoes and your choice of veggies! 
A combination of buttery crescent roll, melted cheddar and juicy chicken…Mmmm…
Crescent Chicken
(serves 6-8 rolls)
1 (8 or 6 jumbo count) package refrigerator crescent rolls
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can of milk (using soup can)
Preheat oven to 350
Prepare soup using milk and set aside. Separate crescent rolls. Spoon chicken and cheese onto each crescent; roll and seal to enclose filling. Place in a 9×13 baking dish. Pour soup over rolls. Bake at 350 uncovered for 30 mins.

Anchor Hocking Glass Bake ‘N Take 9 Inch x 13 Inch Dish With Snap On Cover

 

   
 
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 30 mins
Total time: 45 mins
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 (8 or 6 jumbo count) package refrigerator crescent rolls
  • 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can of milk (using soup can)
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350
  2. Prepare soup using milk and set aside.
  3. Separate crescent rolls.
  4. Spoon chicken and cheese onto each crescent; roll and seal to enclose filling.
  5. Place in a 9×13 baking dish. Pour soup over rolls. Bake at 350 uncovered for 30 mins.
 
Signature
Filed Under: Entrees ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday!

March 9, 2012 · by · 15 Comments

Happy Friday Everyone!

What a praise….we have sunshine where we live today! It is amazing what a little vitamin D does for the soul, isn’t it? I have some delicious recipes to share….and a link-up!!! Please feel free to link up recipes, seasonal posts and christian posts at the bottom. All I ask is that you place my button (located on my sidebar) on your post. Thank you so much for sharing your gifts with us today. Much love going out…

Friday’s Top 3 Recipes

Whole Wheat Blueberry Lemon Pancakes

Made By: Angie’s Sweet Natured Treats

Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Made By: Inspired By Family Magazine

Chicken Salad Cucumber Bites

Made By: Sugar Free Mom

Aren’t these ladies amazing?! Wowsa!

 

I wanted to leave you with this story….one of my favorites and one that I think of often.

 

A story told to me about a woman praying one night to God.

 

With tears running down her face, she was telling Him how heavy her cross was and she did not think she could bear it anymore.

“Forgive me, Lord, but I just can’t bear this cross anymore”.

God heard her prayer, said it was all right and asked her to come with Him.

She found herself in the presence of Jesus, Who looked upon her with loving eyes.

“Jesus, please forgive me, but I can’t bear this cross anymore”.

Jesus told her that He understood and took the cross from her.

Jesus then showed her a place where there were countless crosses. He told her to look around and find a cross that she thought she could bear. The woman looked upon the crosses available and shuddered. There were huge, dark crosses…some with thorns…some with nails and some too awful to even describe. Then, her eyes fell upon a small cross, one she thought she could bear.

“Jesus”, she said, “I think I can bear that cross”, as she pointed to the small cross she had found.

Jesus smiled at her, placed His hand on her shoulder and replied, “That is the cross you just gave me”.*

When you think your cross is to heavy to bear…

take a look around…

it may not be so heavy, after all.

Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

Buttery Snack Cake with Broiled Coconut

March 7, 2012 · by · 4 Comments
This is such a delicious classic from Betty Crocker herself! The first time I tried this was in a bible study -one of my “comfy in the kitchen” friends (Kelly!) made it and it was love at first bite! The broiled topping just “makes” it. This is a great recipe to save for an Easter brunch!

Put all cake ingredients into a large bowl (Don’t you love that?)

Bake 35 mins in a 350 oven until nice and golden brown. (I used a throw away 9×13 and doubled the recipe- this was a meal ministry)

Beat together topping: Coconut, brown sugar, butter and milk. ( I know, I know) 

While the cake is warm, gently spread topping over top- this works well with a butter knife. Broil on low for a few mins until lightly browned on top- do not over broil! 

And away it goes to a teacher meeting!  

 

 

Buttery snack cake with broiled coconut
Author: Betty Crocker
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 35 mins
Total time: 50 mins
Serves: 8-10
Ingredients
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose or 1 1/2 cups cake flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup butter or stick margarine, softened
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • Broiled Coconut Frosting
  • 1 cup flaked coconut
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter or stick margarine, softened
  • 2 tablespoons half-and-half or milk
Instructions
  1. Heat oven to 350°.
  2. Grease bottom and sides of square pan, 8 X 8 X 2 (or you may double recipe and 9×13)
  3. Beat all ingredients except Broiled Coconut Frosting with electric mixer on low speed 30 seconds, scraping bowl constantly.
  4. Beat on high speed 3 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally.
  5. Pour into pan.
  6. Bake 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
  7. Make Broiled Coconut Frosting.
  8. Set oven control to broil (low).
  9. Carefully spread frosting over hot cake.
  10. Broil with top of cake about 4 inches from heat about 2 minutes or until frosting is light brown.
  11. Watch carefully so frosting does not burn.
  12. Cool 15 minutes.
  13. Serve warm or cool.
Signature
Filed Under: Breakfast, Dessert, Uncategorized ·

Cashew Chicken

March 5, 2012 · by · 7 Comments

 The cashews add a sweet crunch to this savory meal…I hope you enjoy this as much as we do! 
Marinade ingredients 
let chicken marinate for 1/2 hour – I like to slice my chicken into angled slices for quick cooking. 
A roux- a thickening agent…this is what makes the sauce have a “gravy like” texture. 
Sliced carrots and snow peas
Stir fry chicken, then add veggies- then roux with remaining sauce ingredients. 
Add sauce -let simmer until thickened, then add cashews. 
 

 Mmmmm…..

Cashew Chicken
Prep time: 30 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 50 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 3 Tablespoons soy sauce,divided
  • 1/2 chicken broth
  • 3/4 teaspoon sesame oil, divided
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh gingerroot
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons canola oil
  • 1-1/2 cups fresh snow peas
  • 2 medium carrots sliced at an angle
  • 3/4 cup cashews
  • Hot cooked rice
Instructions
  1. Make marinade: Combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1/2 cup broth and 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil; add the chicken. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and 1/3 cup broth until smooth.
  3. Stir in the sugar, vinegar, ginger, salt, and remaining soy sauce and 1/4 tsp sesame oil; set aside.
  4. Drain chicken and discard marinade.
  5. In a large nonstick wok or skillet, stir-fry chicken in canola oil until done.
  6. In the same pan, stir-fry peas and carrots.
  7. Add sauce and bring to a boil
  8. Cook and stir until sauce thickens (this will not take long!).
  9. Add cashews.
  10. Serve with hot rice.
Signature
Filed Under: Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly, Uncategorized ·

Dr. Seuss Day (Green Eggs and Ham)

March 5, 2012 · by · 7 Comments

I’m Baaaaack 🙂 It was so nice to have some “screen time away” for a week, but I feel very blessed to get back into the “swing” of things! I hope YOU had a very BLESSED week! 

One of last week’s events was “Dr. Seuss Day” for my Kindergartener. The kids and I had fun making a t-shirt, reading Dr. Seuss books and eating “Green Eggs and Ham”. I even had the blessing of visiting the Kindergarten class on their special day! 

Early Friday morning the kids awoke to me making this delightful dish, lol.  Scrambled eggs with 2 drops of green food coloring and bacon (it was the closest thing I had to ham- it worked!)

My little guy read us the book “Green Eggs and Ham” (notice the bacon is gone off their plates, but the eggs remain…oh, and the half smile- LOL!)


A breakfast fit for a…

Dog?!!!??!!!! HEY!!!!! I see you!!! lol!

How could I hold a grudge with this Cutie Pie? My “Thing 2” – We went to Jo-ann Fabrics and purchased a red shirt, some sticky felt, and puffy paint…I am not known for my crafting ability, but it worked!

A little later, I had the blessing of being a room mom in the Kindergarten class. I just LOVE these children…they are so dear to me. I could go on and on about each one of them and their unique little personalities. I can’t help it- I tell them all the time how much I love them and what I love about them, lol. I also LOVE their teacher (you know who you are!)


And here is the Kindergarten version of “Green Eggs and Ham” 🙂 Love it. 

I even got to “borrow” another little girl’s hat, lol. 

So…how do you like YOUR Green Eggs and Ham? In a house? With a mouse? I know where I would like them….at the beach!!!! Ahhh..dreaming away these winter blues 🙂

Happy to be back!

Signature
Filed Under: Uncategorized ·

Internet Vacation!

February 28, 2012 · by · 3 Comments

Hi Ladies, I will be taking an “internet vacation” this week (Feb 27th-March 5th). No worries, I will be back the following week! 

What’s on the agenda? Soaking in and serving my family! 

I have “Swiss Cheese Chicken”,“Buttery Snack Cake with Broiled Coconut” (a Betty Crocker Fave), “Cashew Chicken” and “Broiled Scallops” on the menu line-up ready to post for the following week! Please come back and see me then! In the meantime, please browse the archived recipes and have a very blessed week. 

Love to you! Janelle 

laptop beach woman travel vacation computer

Signature
Filed Under: Uncategorized ·

Jambalaya

February 25, 2012 · by · 4 Comments


Last week whenI had my Mother and Father-in-law over for dinner we had this delicious Jambalaya! My Mother-in-law about fell out of her seat when she saw my Father-in-law get up from the table to help himself to seconds off the stove top…it made me feel good that an otherwise moderate eater would want more of one of my homemade meals 😉 I have to say…this is very tasty! I love adding a bunch of ingredients to one dish…this is also naturally very food allergy friendly.

Saute onions, green pepper, celery and garlic in a large wok.

Slice sausage (of your choice- this is Kielbasa I had in the refrigerator already)


Add parsley, sausage, diced chicken, bay leaf and spices to the wok. Stir for about 5 mins

Here are my seasonings of choice! YUM!

 

Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes.

Rinse fresh de-shelled and de-veined shrimp

I sauteed the shrimp in a separate skillet (you can just add shrimp if you would like). Here I used butter, garlic, and parsley. My kidos love sauteed shrimp over pasta…I had a feeling Jambalaya would be a bit too spicy so I made a little pasta for them and this is what they had. I added the remaining shrimp to the Jambalaya at the very end.

Add rice and cover to cook to 45 mins until liquid is absorbed, add shrimp. If you wish, you may add more chicken broth to your desired consistency. I added 1 Tbsp of sugar and additional spices at the end to my liking.

Jambalaya
Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 45 mins
Total time: 1 hour 5 mins
Serves: 6
revised from Epicurious
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 medium cloves garlic, peeled and diced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, cored, seeded and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 tbsp fresh Italian parsley, minced
  • 2 cups of Kielbasa (sliced at an angle)
  • 4 Chicken breasts cubed
  • 1 large bay leaf
  • 1Tbsp Cajun Spice
  • 1 tsp Old Bay
  • 1 Tbsp Sugar
  • Salt/Pepper as desired
  • 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups cup Chicken Broth
  • 1 cup brown rice, uncooked
  • 1 1/2 lb medium shrimp, peeled, deveined (sauteed in butter, garlic, parsley)
Instructions
  1. Add oil to a large nonstick saucepan.
  2. Over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, bell pepper and celery until onion
  3. Add parsley, kielbasa, chicken, bay leaf, and spices.
  4. Saute for 5 mins
  5. Add tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and Chicken broth. Let Simmer 5 mins.
  6. Pour rice into the pan and stir well.
  7. Bring mixture to a boil.
  8. Lower heat and simmer, covered, 45 minutes or until rice is cooked and absorbs most of the liquid.
  9. Saute shrimp in 1 Tbsp butter, 1 clove chopped garlic, 1 tsp parsley – cook 5 minutes.
  10. When rice is fully cooked, add shrimp.
  11. Remove bay leaf.
  12. Taste and season to taste with additional seasonings if desired. If you desire, add more chicken broth for desired consistency.

Signature
Filed Under: Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday! Featured Recipes and LINK UP!

February 23, 2012 · by · 20 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!

Join me over at Women Living Well where I share my easy Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches…This is such a great recipe to put in the crock pot early Sunday morning and come home from church to for lunch!

I am also over at Roomag today sharing my White Chicken Chilli recipe…there is just something so comforting about a bowl full of this stuff. Oh yes, and it is naturally allergy friendly 😉

Roo Mag

Friday’s Top 3

Mini Twix Cheesecake Bites

Made By: Angie’s Sweet Natured Treats

Sweetea Pies

Made By: Simply…This, That & the Other.

Quinoa Chickpea Salad with Avacado Dressing

Made By: Sugar Free Mom

Friday’s “Feasting In Fellowship” LINK UP! 

It’s A Feasting in Fellowship LINK UP! Please link up as many posts as you like- they may be recipes, Christian inspired, or seasonal posts. I will choose 3 recipes each week to “feature”. All I humbly ask is that you place my button (located on my side bar) on to your post. Thanks for sharing the “Feasting in Fellowship Friday link up” on FB, Twitter! Oh..and don’t forget to “Pin” your favorite recipes (don’t ya just love Pinterest?) Have a great weekend!

 

Signature
Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Fellowship Fridays, Food Allergy Friendly, Soups, Uncategorized ·

Feasting in Fellowship Friday!

February 17, 2012 · by · 14 Comments

Hi Ladies!

It’s Feasting in Fellowship Friday! Last week’s spread had me drooling….wow! Thanks for joining in today and I pray you all enjoy the nice, long weekend.

 

Please join me over at my friend Courtney’s blog Women Living Well. There, she is sharing one of my favorite family recipes…Grandma Ruth’s Lasagna! YUM! This is an excellent dish your entire family will love…it’s also great for company, cooking for a crowd, holidays- tastes great for left overs and freezes well too!

 

 

Friday’s Top 3

A healthier group this week…but just as yummy!!!! Thanks girls!!! 

 

Banana Oatmeal Rasin Muffins

Made By: The 21st Century Housewife

Carob Balls 

Made By: The Lewis Family

Strawberry Coconut Smoothie

Made by: Peak 313

  It’s a Feasting in Fellowship LINK UP! Wohoo! Please feel free to link up as many recipes, Christian posts, or seasonal posts as you wish! All I ask is that you place my button (located on the side bar) onto your post. Thank you so much for blessing me!

 

For those of you who are wondering where this beautiful singing is coming from…it is my friend Ruth from The Better Mom! Don’t these girls sound amazing?


Signature
Filed Under: Fellowship Fridays ·

EASY Oreo Pudding Cupcakes

February 14, 2012 · by · 6 Comments

 

I use a Duncan Hines boxed cake mix and add pudding mix to make these cupcakes have a “from scratch” taste on a Mommy schedule. The Oreo that bakes into the cupcake becomes moist just like the cake…Mmmmm….

I love baking cups like these! Such flair they add…don’t you think? You can find these at Jo-Anns or your grocery store.

Boxed cake (and package ingredients) plus chocolate pudding mix, oreos, and white frosting.

Combine box cake mix, ingredients listed on the box and dry pudding.

Batter will be a thick consistency.

Spoon 1 Tbsp of batter into each cup

Smoosh an Oreo in each one like so..

Ready to bake!

Set aside 6 Oreos (if halving) or 12 Oreos if you want whole for the tops of cupcakes. I set aside 12….and 6 were left standing. There was a 3 year old in the corner licking the white centers out of the remaining 6….

Crush remaining Oreos by placing them in a large Ziploc and pounding with a mallet.

Add crushed Oreos into white frosting and mix well.

Done baking! (18 mins- remember, these are large cupcakes)

Beautiful!

The center…Mmmmm…..now get a nice cold glass of milk and enjoy!

EASY Oreo Pudding Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 18 mins
Total time: 33 mins
Serves: 12
Ingredients
  • 1 Devils Food Cake Duncan Hines Boxed Mix (with ingredients on box)
  • 1 3oz chocolate pudding mix
  • 1 large container of white frosting
  • 1 package of Oreos
  • 12 large baking cups
Instructions
  1. Add boxed cake mix and ingredients per the box and pudding mix into a bowl and beat.
  2. Place 1 Tbsp of batter into each cup
  3. Add Oreo to the top of batter
  4. Cover Oreo with batter until cup is 3/4 full
  5. Bake 350 for appx 18 mins or until done.
  6. Set aside 6-12 Oreos.
  7. Crush remaining Oreos and add them to a bowl with white frosting- beat together.
  8. When cupcakes are cool, frost and top with an Oreo
Notes

Please note- these are large cupcakes. You can make 24 of them in smaller cups. Cook time will vary.

 

Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Seasonal ·

Valentine’s Day Chocolates (for everyone!!!)

February 13, 2012 · by · 2 Comments

Ohh I just LOVE chocolate! This is a recipe that I especially adore because…I can eat it! haha. Does your “Funny Valentine” have food allergies? This is the perfect treat to surprise him/her with! I used semi-sweet ghirardelli chocolate chips.. (Ghirardelli Allergy Info: please note they do not have milk in them, but are made in a facility that has milk in it. ) Don’t have food allergies? No worries…its chocolate with a bunch of yummy stuff in it. Need I say more?

 

Melt 2 cups of semi sweet morsels in a glass bowl for 1 min and stir, microwave another 30 seconds and stir.


Add anything you aren’t allergic to! I have here peanuts, mini marshmallows, coconut, and cornflakes.

Stir…. A yummy hot mess! lol!


Place on waxed paper to let cool.

Whala! These would look beautiful in an inexpensive white box with a window (Jo-ann’s sells them) fastened with a tulle bow! Happy Valentine’s Day EVERYONE!

Ting-a-Lings (Chocolates for EVERYONE!)
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 2 mins
Total time: 7 mins
Serves: 10-15
Ingredients
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate (or any of your choice- I used Ghirardelli for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 c peanuts
  • 1/2 c mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 c coconut
  • 1/2 c cornflakes
Instructions
  1. Melt chocolate in a glass bowl for 1 min, stir then melt another 30 seconds, stir.
  2. Add all other ingredients and stirl.
  3. Drop by the teaspoonfuls onto wax paper until set.

 

Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly, Kiddos, Microwave Cooking, Seasonal ·

LOVE Bugs (adorable)

February 11, 2012 · by · 5 Comments

These cute little Love Bugs will be sure to give your little ones a huge smile on Valentine’s Day. Make them for a party, set up a station in your child’s classroom for all the children to make, or make them to surprise your children for a sweet little Valentine’s treat!

***A huge thank you to my friend Katina who made this post!! She is so creative!  

What you’ll need:  Pop’em Glazed Donut Holes; Vanilla Frosting; Mini Chocolate Chips; Strawberry Heart-Shaped Marshmallows; Flaked Coconut; Red Food Coloring; Nonpareils; Cherry Airheads

Spread the icing all over the donut hole.


Cover the iced donut hole with nonpareils.

For the feet, put a small amount of icing on top of the heart-shaped marshmallow and place the donut hole on top.

Use a toothpick to dab the icing for the eyes & nose.  Place mini chocolate chips on top of icing.

Cut an Airhead to use for the antennas.

Curl over the tops of the antennas.  Use a toothpick to poke 2 small holes on top of the donut and place a small amount of icing in them to help hold the antennas.

Place antennas inside of the holes.

To make another variation, mix a small amount of red food coloring in with the coconut.  Roll the iced donut hole in the red coconut, and follow the same instructions as above.

Mr. and Mrs. Love Bug!

 

LOVE Bugs (adorable)
Prep time: 20 mins
Total time: 20 mins
Serves: 24
A recipe from Katina
Ingredients
  • Pop’em Glazed Donut Holes
  • Vanilla Frosting
  • Mini Chocolate Chips
  • Strawberry Heart-Shaped Marshmallows
  • Flaked Coconut
  • Red Food Coloring
  • Nonpareils
  • Cherry Airheads
Instructions
  1. Spread the icing all over the donut hole.
  2. Cover the iced donut hole with nonpareils
  3. For the feet, put a small amount of icing on top of the heart-shaped marshmallow and place the donut hole on top.
  4. Use a toothpick to dab the icing for the eyes & nose. Place mini chocolate chips on top of icing.
  5. Cut an Airhead to use for the antennas.
  6. Curl over the tops of the antennas. Use a toothpick to poke 2 small holes on top of the donut and place a small amount of icing in them to help hold the antennas.
  7. Place antennas inside of the holes.
  8. To make another variation, mix a small amount of red food coloring in with the coconut. Roll the iced donut hole in the red coconut, and follow the same instructions as above.

 

Signature
Filed Under: Dessert, Kiddos ·

Valentine’s Day Weekend Link UP!

February 10, 2012 · by · 10 Comments

Happy Friday Ladies!

It’s Valentine’s Day weekend and I feel LOVE in the air! What a fun parade of Valentine’s Day inspired recipes we have here! Thanks for being a part of the Comfy blog!

Give someone you love a big hug…

 

God’s Valentine Gift
God’s Valentine gift of love to us
Was not a bunch of flowers;
It wasn’t candy, or a book
To while away the hours.
His gift was to become a man,
So He could freely give
His sacrificial love for us,
So you and I could live.
He gave us sweet salvation, and
Instruction, good and true–
To love our friends and enemies
And love our Savior, too
So as we give our Valentines,
Let’s thank our Lord and King;
The reason we have love to give
Is that He gave everything.
By Joanna Fuchs
Does this make you feel loved? It should. You are. Big time. 

 

Come visit me over at Women Living Well where I share this simple yet fun “Valentine’s Day Cupcake Buffet”! 



Top 3 Picks!

Mini Heart Stuffed French Toasts

Made By: Will Cook For Smiles

Pomegranate Cream Crepes

Made By: Will Cook For Smiles

Cherry Cream Cheese Hearts

Made By: Inspired By Family (Jamie)

*Check out Inspired By Family’s “Loving your man when it hurts” series happening now.

It’s a FEASTING IN FELLOWSHIP LINK UP! Wohoo!

Please post AS MANY recipes, faith-based, and/or seasonal posts as you wish. All I ask is that you add my button (located on my side bar) to your post! A huge thank you also to those who “pin, FB, and tweet” to get the message out! Have a love filled Valentine’s Day Weekend! Remember…God is LOVE!!!

 

 

Signature
Filed Under: Uncategorized ·

Iceberg Wedge Salad w/ Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing (101: How to core lettuce)

February 8, 2012 · by · 2 Comments

This beautiful salad is a”little” fancy..but a “lot” easy (less cutting means more time to make the main entree!). Impress your guests with a drizzle of homemade blue cheese dressing and we are taking this salad to the next level of deliciousness! YUMMMmm.

(This would be a GREAT salad for Valentine’s Day for the Hubby…)

With Iceberg lettuce, I always take off the first layer of lettuce and throw it away.

 

Then, I cup the lettuce in one hand and “bang” the core on the side of the sink- this loosens the core.


Then, I simply dig out the core with my hand- it comes out easy. I take the rough/thick edges off around the side. Rinse!

Slice down the middle crossways to make 4 wedges. Top with bacon, shredded parmesan cheese, and fresh chives.

Now for the dressing! In a medium bowl combine mayo, sour cream, blue cheese, salt, and Worcestershire sauce.

Whala….add some freshly cracked pepper . Ohhhhh, Ahhhhhh…..

Iceberg Lettuce Salad with Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing
Prep time: 10 mins
Total time: 10 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 head of Iceberg Lettuce (quartered)
  • 1 cup cooked crumbled bacon (appx 8 slices)
  • Shredded Parmesan Cheese for sprinkling
  • Chives (sliced green onions) for garnish
  • Cracked Black Pepper
  • Dressing: (Combine all)
  • 1 Cup Mayo
  • 1 8 oz container sour cream
  • 1 4 oz crumbled blue cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
  1. Place each wedge on an individual plate. Add toppings and dressing.

(How to core Iceberg Lettuce)

Signature
Filed Under: Cutting, Salads ·
« Previous Page
Next Page »