Happy Memorial Day, Thank You Veterans!

For many this weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. 

Across this country millions of Americans will be enjoying their holiday weekend. Whether it's relaxing at the beach, going to festivals, enjoying the Indy 500 on tv, or grilling in the backyard, many Americans are enjoying their freedom.

Whatever you're doing this weekend, stay safe. Also remember those who sacrificed their lives for our freedoms.  


Thank you veterans, and first responders for serving our country. Thank you for preserving our freedom.

Recipe For A Cleaner Earth

This is a very simple recipe that everyone can do to preserve our Earth.

All over the world millions are remembering Earth Day. 

Earth Day was started to bring awareness to environmental and conservation issues.

There are many simple, painless ways that you can make a difference to help our planet every day.

You can start by simply recycling. Here is a photo of some of the many items that appear in my recycling bin. 

By recycling you are not only making less garbage, but what you recycle can often be used to make new items too.

 You can even recycle some used electronics. You can call your city for more info for what can be recycled.

Instead of plastic bags, you can use canvas or ask for paper ones at your local stores.

 You can buy local and organic produce at your local markets. You can buy products that use less packaging. 

You can bring a coffee mug instead of using styrofoam or plastic cups at work, home or school.  

You can even remove your name from junk mailing lists to stop unwanted mail.  

You can use environmentally safe cleaning products. You can use cloths instead of paper towels for cleaning. 

You can use less energy turning off lights and electronics when not in use. You can even support businesses that are eco-friendly.

By making a few small changes you can impact our environment greatly. We all share this world together. 

Why not do your part to keep it clean.

Make a difference. preserve our planet!

Broasted Brussel Sprouts ™

This is a great way to get kids to eat the dreaded vegetable, brussel sprouts.


1 lb. package Brussel Sprouts
non stick cooking spray
1/8 c - 1/4 c olive oil
1/8 tsp salt
1/4 tsp each: black pepper, granulated garlic, lemon juice


Preheat oven to 350' F.


Spray baking sheet with non stick cooking spray.


Rinse brussel sprouts thoroughly in colander. 

Pat brussel sprouts dry with paper towel.


In a mixing bowl combine brussel sprouts, salt, pepper, garlic, lemon juice. 

Adjust amount of oil as needed. 

Mix well to coat sprouts.


Spread sprouts on baking sheet and place in oven and bake for 30 min. 

Halfway through cooking take baking sheet out of oven, stir or sprouts to cook evenly for 15 minutes or until done.


Serves 4. 

Tickled Pink Cosmopolitan ™

What's a better way to celebrate spring than with a refreshing cocktail.

4 - 6 oz.  vodka

1 - 1 1/2 c. cranberry juice cocktail
lime juice
Ice

Put 4 martini glasses in freezer to chill for 10 - 15 minutes.

Add vodka, ice, lime juice, cranberry juice into shaker, shake well.

Take glasses out of freezer.

 Strain Cosmopolitans into glasses. 

Serves 4.  

Luck Of The Irish Coffee ™

This is my version of a St. Patrick Day staple. 

I've used brown sugar for this recipe, but you can use diabetic sugar if desired.


24 oz. brewed coffee (regular or decaf)
2 - 3 oz whiskey
1 - 2 tsp. sugar (optional)
2 T. whipped cream


Brew coffee according to your coffee maker instructions.

Pour coffee into mugs. 

Add whiskey to coffee. 

Add sugar to desired sweetness. 

Top coffee with whipped cream.


Serves 2.

Easy Cheesy Quesadilla ™

This is perfect for watching the big game, tailgating, company, or even for a quick snack.  I've used a Mexican blend of cheese. Feel free to experiment and use what cheeses and fillings you like. 


Enjoy!


8-10  flour tortillas 
8-10 oz shredded cheese
6- oz each: chopped bell peppers, chopped onions
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 tsp mild chopped chilies (optional)
1- 2 T oil (olive or canola)




Heat skillet to medium high heat.  Lower heat to medium, add oil. 


Lay 1 flour tortilla in pan. Sprinkle some of the cheese, onions, peppers, red pepper flakes, and chile on tortilla. Place another tortilla on top. 


Cook on one side for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Flip over to cook on other side for 2 to 3 minutes more. Remove quesadilla from pan and place on serving place. Repeat cooking process with remaining tortillas and fillings.


To serve, cut quesadilla into 4 slices. 


Serves 4-5 (one quesadilla).

Salt Free And Loving It Seasoning ™

If one of your New Years resolutions is to reduce sodium, here is a tasty salt free way to add flavor to your cooking. 

 I've included basil, parsley, chives, and oregano for this recipe. Feel free to adjust the amount of herb, if needed. If you don't have granulated garlic, you can use dried minced garlic. You can experiment with different herbal blends too, if desired.

1 T. each: dried parsley, dried basil, 

1/2 T. dried oregano, dried chives

1/2 tsp granulated garlic

1/4 tsp. black pepper
Pinch each: turmeric, crushed red pepper flakes 

Combine herbs & spices in small bowl, mix well. Pour herb in a clean salt shaker.

Makes 6- 8 servings (1 tsp approx.)