Speedy Squash ™

This is a very quick recipe for winter squash that can be prepared in the microwave.

I used acorn squash and brown sugar for this recipe. Feel free to experiment with your favorite squash and favorite sugar.

1 squash (I used acorn)
2- 3 T butter (cut into pieces)
2 tsp sugar
1/8 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Cut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Cut squash into 4ths and place into microwave safe dish. I use a glass pie pan.

Top squash with butter pieces and sprinkle with sugar and pepper. Microwave for 10 minutes or until done. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.

Serves 4

Rock Island Potatoes ™

This was part of what my grandma used to call a Rock Island breakfast.

But you don't have to eat this dish just for breakfast. It can be served anytime as a side dish or even by themselves. I used fresh parsley, sage, rosemary. You can also dried herbs or what you like. Enjoy!

2 medium potatoes (sliced)
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 T oil (olive or canola)
1/4 tsp each: pepper, parsley, sage, rosemary, lemon juice
1 clove garlic (crushed and chopped)
1/8 tsp each: salt, red pepper flakes (optional)

Rinse potatoes under running water to make sure they are clean of debris, pat dry.

Cut potatoes in half lengthwise and cut into slices. Peel and chop onion. Place potatoes and onion in bowl.

Heat oil in skillet or saute pan over medium high heat. Reduce heat to medium, add oil. Add potatoes, onions, herbs, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic to pan. Squeeze lemon juice over potatoes. Cook evenly over medium high heat 10-14 min. or until done.

Makes 4 servings.