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Savor summer with these fresh berry and peach recipes (7/18/24)We are half way through July and I want to try so many recipes I have found recently. While blueberries, blackberries and peaches are plentiful I hope to make many recipes using as many of them as I can. But we also need an entrée to go with them, so I have put together several recipes for entrees and ways to use fresh berries and peaches. In the mix of these recipes, I also added an upscale deviled egg recipe just for fun. ...
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Cool summer desserts perfect for hot summer days (7/11/24)Cool summer desserts seem perfect for hot summer days. Once Independence Day is over it seems like the rest of summer goes by so quickly, so we better get in a few of these cold dessert recipes while we can. Fresh fruit, ice cream, cakes, layered desserts and so many more recipes are wonderful desserts perfect for this time of year. ...
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Independence Day recipes plus more (6/27/24)I started to pull together some desert recipes for Independence Day and then I found a couple of other entrée recipes that I wanted to throw into the mix. There are endless possibilities to summer holiday desserts since fruit is plentiful, but sometimes a simple light, fluffy no-bake cheesecake or pie suits the bill as well. ...
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These summer recipes are ready for hot weather (6/20/24)As the weather heats up for the official start of summer, it seems like a great time to try new and delicious recipes that are perfect for summer. There are still a few strawberries, and now peaches are coming in as well as blackberries and other wonderful foods that are best during the summer. ...
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Smaller-sized recipes big hit for groups of two (6/13/24)I frequently get asked about smaller-sized recipes for two people and so today is the day you’ve been waiting for. I started looking for recipes for two servings and I found so many that sound very interesting and delicious. Of course, any recipe can be reduced in size, but we’ll let the experts at Taste of Home do the math for us today and share some of the dozens of recipes they have for two people. ...
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New recipes for a new month plus a couple of older recipes (6/6/24)We’re starting a new month, and I’m feeling a few new recipes are in order. I came across a couple of older recipes that I am looking forward to making, and of course I always have a few new recipes that I will try. ...
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Pucker up for these lemon recipes (5/30/24)I enjoy lemon in almost any recipe, served any way and in just about anything. Whether lemon is used in savory or sweet recipes, it is almost always a favorite of mine. A fresh squeeze of lemon in my water, tea or just spoil me with a cold glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade, any lemon beverage is so light and refreshing, especially on a hot day. And any sweet lemon treat is a favorite, whether it is cake, pie, cookies or any dessert, I will choose lemon any day over chocolate. ...
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A son’s birthday and his favorite foods (5/23/24)Happy 30th birthday to our son, Ross. I’m sure his special day will include lots of good food and desserts. Ross has a particular fondness for chocolate and peanut butter combinations and loves good, well-cooked meat. For today, I have chosen a couple of recipes that I think Ross would enjoy and may be included in his birthday party. ...
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A few salad and strawberry recipes to try (5/16/24)We are already in strawberry season, but we are also entering a time where we might need a salad for an occasion. I planned to do all strawberry recipes today, but then I was asked about salad recipes. With needing to do salad recipes and wanting to do strawberry recipes, I just decided to do a few of each. Salad suppers can feature any type of salad and really, just about anything goes! Which is exactly what I’m sharing with you today. Enjoy!
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Enjoy these sweet treat desserts (5/9/24)It has been a while since I’ve done a recipe column specifically featuring all sweet treats and desserts, and I think today is the day to do just that. I have come across a few recipes over the past few weeks that seem worthy of making. ...
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Try these slider recipes for Derby day or other spring party (5/2/24)In planning for recipes for this week, I thought about the Kentucky Derby, wedding shower season, graduation parties and Mother’s Day, among just a few of the events coming up. I was thinking about making Kentucky Hot Browns for Derby Day, but then I came across a recipe for a slider hot browns. I will plan to have these for the afternoon of the Derby and might add a thin slice of ham to the slider recipe. ...
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Rhubarb season has begun (4/25/24)One of the many special gifts of spring is new-crop rhubarb. Early in the season it is still young and tender, sweet yet slightly tart and so very delicious. There are so many different ways to use rhubarb, I had a hard time narrowing down the many recipes I found to use it. But I managed to select a few that I think you’ll enjoy. ...
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Recipes to kick off baseball season (4/18/24)I found a fun collection of recipes that I think will be a great way to kick off the start of baseball season. Taste of Home had 45 Ballpark Copycat Recipes in a collection that I just could not pass up. I think the author said it perfectly in introducing the recipe collection, “Take a crack at these grand-slam recipes inspired by your favorite ballpark snacks and treats. You've always got home-field advantage when whipping up these nachos, pretzels, popcorn, hot dogs, nuts and more, right in your own kitchen.” ...
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A variety of recipes for you to try (4/11/24)I have so many new recipes I want to share, and I’m not sure where to start or when I’ll ever get around to all of them. There are always new things to try and pass along and with the season changing to spring, that is a good time to turn over a new leaf and start cooking. ...
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A variety of recipes for a variety of events (4/4/24)With this new beginning to a new month, I am torn as to what theme I should prepare to share with you. So I will just start looking and see what falls into place. Enjoy! ...
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Share the Easter story with family and friends (3/28/24)In the interest of space, let's jump right into this special Easter column today. Happy Easter, and may it be a meaningful and spiritually rich day for you and your loved ones. As you are planning for Easter, this is a fun way to pull kids into the kitchen and share the Easter Story with them in a way that they will remember...
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Recipes for Easter brunch (3/21/24)Easter is right around the corner and Easter brunch is a nice way to celebrate with family. Some meal preparation helps put the meal together quickly and not take away much time you want to spend with your guests. I've put together a few recipes today that can be served for brunch after church service. Easter is the best time to use your good dishes and make the table extra special, while serving your guests a delicious assortment of food. Enjoy your celebration of the risen Lord!...
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Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with these recipes (3/14/24)St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner, and you may already be planning your menu for your celebration. There's a fun saying that says, "Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day", and I sure think so. No matter what our family history tells us, it is fun to celebrate St. Patrick's Day...
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A new month brings a batch of 'spring' chicken recipes (3/7/24)We welcome a new month and new recipes as we ease into spring with chicken recipes that are sure to please. I have been in a late winter cooking slump, and I need a few new recipes to shake things up a bit for us. Today I have found chicken recipes that are quick to prepare that will help busy families and people on-the-go to get supper on the table as quickly as possible, but not compromise on good taste...
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Recipes with a Leap Year theme (2/29/24)Today is a special day, February 29, which means it is Leap Day. Leap Day occurs only once every four years, and the actual purpose of having Leap Day is to keep our annual calendar and the seasons aligned over very long periods of time. The actual time it takes for Earth to orbit the sun is not exactly 365 days, but rather 365.242189 days (365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes, and 45 seconds), also known as a "tropical year". ...
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Presidential recipes over the years (2/22/24)As we celebrate Lincoln's birthday, Washington's birthday and also Presidents' Day I became curious about some of the recipes our Presidents and First Ladies might have enjoyed. As I started looking up recipes and trying to find more and more recipes, it was so interesting, and I really enjoyed reading really old recipes with very little or simple directions. I tried to imagine cooking over wood burning stoves with little way to control the temperature and the lack of ingredients we enjoy today...
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Recipes for pork tenderloin marinade (2/15/24)When you find a great buy on meat it is nice to stock up and have extra to put in the freezer. Pork tenderloin is one of our favorites and it can be prepared in so many different ways. We enjoy pork tenderloins grilled, but sometimes during the winter, that is not possible. So we resort to grilling or broiling. They can be prepared in a crock pot, but that is not my preferred method...
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Getting your menu ready for the big game (2/8/24)It is time to plan your menu for the big football game, if you are a football game watcher. For some of us, the fellowship with others and the snacks on the buffet are much more fun than the actual game. It is also an exciting time at our house with basketball. We far prefer basketball to football, so we are enjoying game food in a different way, with a different game...
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A few new entree recipes to try (2/1/24)We'll kick off this new month with some new entree recipes that are sure to please your family. You may be in a post-holiday rut with what you are cooking, so a few new recipes might help solve that problem. I've chosen recipes today that are easy to prepare and call for mostly common ingredients. ...
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Hearty dishes with enough for leftovers (1/25/24)As I am writing this column, it is bitter cold outside and I am thinking about hearty, stick-to-your-ribs recipes that will warm you up on a cold day. It is nice to make recipes that will allow for leftovers to use during the week, and I think all of these recipes would provide a nice hearty meal and give you plenty of additional meals later in the week. Enjoy!...
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Try something outside your comfort zone (1/18/24)I enjoy exploring all types of recipes, and generally speaking, I am willing to try almost any recipe. I was reminded recently of the old-fashioned classic Velveeta fudge recipe from years ago, by my co-worker Myranda Hill, and it made me think about other recipes that have unusual or unexpected ingredients. ...
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Soup recipes to take the chill out of the air (1/11/24)The chill of winter is in the air, and although the days are getting longer, evening comes so quickly. To help take the chill from the air, a nice hot bowl of soup is perfect for this time of year. One of the best thing about making soups is the flexibility of the recipe to do whatever suits you and your family or what ingredients you have on hand at the time...
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Recipes shared among friends (1/6/24)Working at the senior center certainly does have its advantages. One is the sharing of classic, family favorite recipes. During the holiday season we are blessed with friends who share their baked and homemade treats with the staff and volunteers. After the plate of goodies arrives, I usually ask the person for the recipe. Knowing that, some of them come equipped and ready to share their cherished recipes...
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Finger foods are a good way to end 2023 (12/28/23)We are ending up this wonderful year of 2023 with finger food recipes. I know several families who are having a late Christmas gathering with family over the New Year weekend, while others are past Christmas and are planning their menu for New Year's Eve. Finger food, dips and snacks could easily be served at either of these celebrations...
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A few of recipes to share for Christmas (12/21/23)We are right down to the wire with planning menus and choosing recipes to serve for Christmas, but I still have time to sneak in just a few more recipes before Santa comes to visit. I have been looking at so many recipes over the past week or two, and I want to try them all, but time won't allow that. Instead, I'll pass a few of them on to you and maybe you can fit some of these onto your Christmas menu list...
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Eggnog recipes for Christmas (12/14/23)Eggnog is such an underused ingredient during the Christmas baking and cooking season. Eggnog has far more uses than just sipping from a cup around a fire with friends and family. Some of your favorite recipes can be made very special for the holiday season just by using eggnog as an ingredient. Personally, I am one of those people who would much rather cook and bake with eggnog than drink it from a cup or glass...
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A variety of Christmas cookie recipes (12/7/23)This annual cookie column is one of my favorite columns of the entire year. Cookies are such a quintessential part of the Christmas season, I like to share cookie recipes early in the season so readers will have time to bake. Almost everyone has go-to favorite cookie recipes that are often a tradition in their family. What I have included here are some different recipes that you might not have made before. You can try these and add the ones you like to your all-time favorites list...
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Sharing 25 years of recipes (11/30/23)Happy 25th birthday to this recipe column. When I started writing this column, I could not imagine I would still be doing it 25 years later. I had a baby and a toddler at home, along with my full-time job and decided to take on this column. Our children have grown up during this time, and now we have two grandchildren, and the recipe column continues into a new time in our lives...
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How to use those Thanksgiving Day leftovers (11/22/23)After all the family and friends leave from enjoying Thanksgiving together, there is the issue of all of the leftovers in the refrigerator. Even sending to-go containers home with family members may still leave you wondering what to do with all the leftovers...
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Thanksgiving wouldn't be the same without the sides and desserts (11/16/23)Thanksgiving menus are being put together and shopping lists are well underway, but before you finish up your list, I'm hoping to tempt you with a few desserts and side dish recipes. Although your family may have favorite traditions, it is nice to add a few new menu items to change things up a bit. Desserts and side dishes are a great place to start, so that is what I am sharing with you today. Enjoy!...
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Wild game recipes for the hunter in the family (11/9/23)My nephew, Stevie Battaglia is an avid hunter, and he provides wild game for their family for the entire year. His son, Gunnar, has already gotten a deer during bow season, and they are gearing up for more hunting in the days ahead. Stevie is well known among family and friends for his Italian Deer served on toasted hoagie buns. Unfortunately, I don't have his recipe, as he just wings it, and he makes it as he knows how to do...
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It's time for soup, stew, chili and chowder (11/2/23)It is soup, stew, chili and chowder season and I'm ready to start making some to enjoy. Cool temperatures, shorter days and the beautiful colors of the trees has totally turned my thinking toward warm and savory recipes. Almost everyone has a favorite beef vegetable soup or potato soup, so I have put together a collection of recipes today that maybe you have not made before. ...
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Recipes just in time for cooler weather (10/26/23)In closing out the month of October, I keep finding so many recipes I am very eager to try. I really enjoy baking and cooking as the weather turns a little cooler and it encourages me to try new recipes and spend more time in the kitchen. Today I have included a recipe for a wonderful combination of biscuit and cornbread all in one. ...
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Recipes to reflect the cool weather (10/19/23)As the leaves start to turn and there is a cool crispness to the air, I start thinking about foods that tell me fall has arrived. When we had that cool weather recently, the first thing I did was make No Peek Beef Stew. I pulled out the large covered Ditch oven and put stew on to bake for five hours, and it smelled like fall and winter. Do you have favorite foods you make when you turn the calendar to October and the weather turns cool? Maybe chili is on your stove simmering?...
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Jumping on the pumpkin bandwagon (10/12/23)It seems like everywhere I look there is a presence of pumpkin items. The ice cream shops have pumpkin frozen treats available, and the grocery store is full of pumpkin items that include about everything you can imagine. I must jump on board the pumpkin theme as I really enjoy pumpkin recipes for a few weeks in the fall. I've included recipe for sweets and savory dishes so there may be a recipe here for everyone. Enjoy!...
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Recipes for a new month (10/5/23)New recipes to kick off a new month. As we move right into October, I've pulled together several recipes for you to try. These may be new to you, or maybe a variation to a familiar recipe you've made for a long time, but with a new month, it's time to try some new recipes...
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Fall into some s'mores recipes (9/28/23)Before long it will be bonfire time as evenings get cooler, and that makes me think of s'mores made around the fire. There is something special about sharing a s'more experience with friends. I went looking for variations and recipes for all-things-s'mores and boy was I surprised! I found cookies, all types of desserts including pie, frozen treats, nachos, dessert bars of every kind imaginable and even bacon s'mores...
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Lots of recipes for apple season (9/21/23)Apple season is upon us, and unlike peach season, it appears there will be a plentiful crop. We missed so many good recipes for peaches, but I can already see we'll be making that up in apple recipes this fall. Whether you are using fresh apples, apple butter, apple cider or applesauce, the aroma that comes away from a fresh baked item seems to smell like fall has arrived...
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Recipes for your tailgate or just watching the game at home (9/14/23)Football season has arrived and with that comes watch parties and tailgating for your favorite team. College football is in full swing, and high school teams are ready for another exciting season. Whether you are a stay-at-home-and-watch-on-a-device kind of fan or if you are at the parking lot cooking for your friends before the game, this group of snack dip recipes are just what you need. ...
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Embrace your inner child with these recipes (9/7/23)Every once in awhile it is fun to embrace that inner child and do something unexpected. Rice Krispie Treats are one of those simple, childhood foods that are so simple yet so yummy. Have you looked up how many different variations on this recipe there are? There are so many and I had fun looking through many of the recipes and then coming up with a few ideas of my own...
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Pink recipes to celebrate a new granddaughter (8/31/23)I'm tickled pink as I'm writing this column today! Scott and I welcomed our new granddaughter into the world, and we couldn't be more excited. Ella Beth came into the world safe and healthy. We are so thankful, and we are already over-the-moon in love with her. Her parents are doing well, and her 21-month-old big brother was so sweet, gentle and loving when they brought her home. It looks like they are off to a great start for a sweet little family...
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A hodge-podge of recipes (8/24/23)I started putting this column together in a hodge-podge manner, for sure. I came across this blueberry-sausage breakfast cake recipe that sounded interesting, so I decided I had to try it. Then I came across a small jar of apple butter in my refrigerator that I need to use before I get new this fall; so found a recipe to use it up. ...
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Recipes for a fun-loving uncle's birthday (8/17/23)Today is my brother-in-law's birthday! Collin is a little younger than I am, and he's been a great brother for the past 33 years. Behind that rugged exterior, he has a heart of gold, and he would do anything for me or my children, which is only one reason why I love him so much. Our kids always know a good time when Uncle Collin is around and knew him very early as the fun uncle. There's always some big piece of equipment to ride or drive, guns to shoot or side-by-side rides around the farm...
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Make-ahead casseroles are ready to bake (8/10/23)I started this column thinking about school starting back in session. Once school starts back, it seems like time goes so quickly and parents need a plan for supper ideas, and often casseroles fill the bill. Many casserole-style recipes can be made or assembled ahead of time and baked when needed...
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Old and new recipes to begin the month of August (8/3/23)As we start a new month, I am inspired to hunt out some old familiar recipes and to find a few new recipes to try. I am especially interested in the peach cheesecake salad and the grilled fruit iced tea. But all of today's recipes pique my interest, so I will have to get busy trying these during the month of August...
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Recipes using lemon, old and new (7/27/23)My husband has a great appreciation for all things chocolate. Given the choice, he will always choose chocolate when making a decision about cake, cookies, ice cream and almost all desserts. As for me, I will almost always choose a fruit-flavored dessert, fruit cobbler or pie and very seldom would choose chocolate as my first choice...
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Serve a salad on those hot summer evenings (7/20/23)Cool, fresh salads are a welcome meal or a refreshing side dish during the hot summer months. Salads are a very broad food category and include just about any combination of ingredients you can think to put together. There's personal salads for one person, large salads to share with others, side dish salads, frozen salads and much more...
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A variety of new recipes for summer meals (7/13/23)While the evenings have been so warm and baseball has been hit or miss to watch, I've been looking at cookbooks and recipe sites finding some new recipes to share. Summer gives us so many wonderful gifts of food, and I want to enjoy all of it as long as it lasts...
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Bet you will like at least one of these slider recipes (7/6/23)I remember making little slider sandwiches many years ago using Pepperidge Farm Party Rolls that came in a little aluminum foil pan and it called for a butter paste combination that was spread on the inside of the rolls, the meat and cheese fillings were added, then baked. Over the years the rolls have since been discontinued, now the butter combination is melted and poured over the tops and the variety of sliders has exploded with many different options...
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Recipes for your Independence Day spread (6/29/23)Happy Independence Day! I grew up with parents who really enjoyed this holiday. We always had company with plenty of food, and always had blackberry cobbler, peach cobbler and homemade ice cream. Mom made the cobblers and Dad hand cranked the ice cream and everyone had a wonderful time. My Dad loved cleaning off the dasher from the ice cream freezer and it would be clean as a whistle when he was finished with it...
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Sheet cakes are great for those summer parties, get-togethers (6/22/23)Pool parties and barbeque get-togethers are all underway for the summer, so you may need to provide a dessert treat for such occasions. Sheet cakes are often served right from the pan it's baked in as they tend to serve a large number of people, so they're great for potlucks and parties...
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Summer-time cookie recipes to try (6/15/23)Cookies, cookies and more cookies! Cookies during the summer months can look a little different from those served during the winter months. Summertime cookies can include all kinds of berries; citrus fruits such as orange, lemon or lime; or even bananas, to mention just a few. But any cookie column would not be complete without a couple of chocolate options mixed in...
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Desserts for every summertime occasion (6/8/23)It is not too early to start thinking about cool, summer dessert recipes and patriotic themed desserts for the upcoming Independence Day holiday. During hot afternoons when a little something cool and refreshing would taste good, I start looking through recipes to see what I can find...
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Trying new recipes for a new month (6/1/23)It's a new month and a great time for new recipes. As we turn the calendar to June and greet summer, this seems like a perfect time to get out of the routine of the same old thing for supper and try some new recipes. I have gathered together a few that I think look interesting and worthy of trying, so I plan to do just that. I already know that Scott will be hit-and-miss on a couple of these, but I still want to try them...
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Memorial Day is the unofficial start to summer (5/25/23)It is hard to believe Memorial Day weekend is already upon us. I can fondly recall my grandmother and parents called this special holiday "Decoration Day". It was a time to pay respects to those who had passed away by placing flowers on the graves and headstones...
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Trying new recipes from social media for Spring (5/18/23)As I have been scrolling through social media the past couple of weeks during baseball games that are far less than exciting, I have saved several recipes I would like to try. As something caught my eye and looked interesting, I saved it to pass along to you as well...
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Rhubarb is in season; here are some recipes that use rhubarb (5/11/23)Fresh rhubarb is in season and now is the perfect time to enjoy this fresh, tender, and delicious vegetable. My parents grew rhubarb, and mom always made pies for us when we were together as a family. She made a traditional two-crust pie with sugar and a top crust, and she would also make her mother's recipe, which was a rhubarb custard pie, and it was best chilled from the refrigerator. This brings back so many great memories...
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Food to celebrate Derby Day (5/4/23)The first Saturday in May is one of my favorite days, when the horses run for the roses. I have never owned a horse, nor have I ever lived in Kentucky, but I love Derby Day and all the rich tradition surrounding the day. From the queen's court, to making the rose wreath, the elegant fascinators that all the women wear, of course the horses and all of the food is so interesting to me...
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How to use up that last bit of hot cocoa mix (4/27/23)After the long winter months and Christmas was over, I ended up with some leftover hot cocoa mix that we probably won't drink as the weather turns warmer. By the way, do you say "hot cocoa" or "hot chocolate"? I find myself saying both and didn't realize I did that until today...
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Recipes for a party or shower (4/20/23)We are rapidly approaching party and shower season. There will be graduation parties, wedding showers, baby showers and many other occasions this spring that will warrant a party with some great food! We are expecting a new grandbaby, so our dear friends insisted on doing a baby shower for them, and my nephew is getting married, so of course we will be doing a wedding shower for them, and each party will have to have some delightful refreshments...
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New recipes for Spring (4/13/23)All new recipes for April and jumping right into spring is our main focus for today. As we begin a new season, I always start thinking about new recipes to try. Lately, I have found so many recipes that look interesting and sound delicious. Although some are somewhat familiar, there may be just a small variation or change that really alters the recipe taste...
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A few quiche recipes (4/6/23)Easter seems like a perfect time to serve quiche at an early morning brunch and light lunch. Served with a fresh green salad, it is a complete meal packed full of protein and whatever else you choose to put in it. But I was also thinking about my grandson, who will eat anything, and what a nice thing to have prepared for him to eat for breakfast or a snack! Filled full of vegetables, cheese, eggs and some meat, he would love it...
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Celebrating a milestone birthday with food (3/30/23)Happy birthday to my husband Scott, who is turning 60 years old this weekend. Having a special, milestone birthday is certainly a cause for celebration, and no doubt that will include some of his favorite foods. Over the 33 years we have been married, Scott's food preferences have changed a bit, like all of ours have. ...
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Salads are for springtime -- so enjoy them now (3/23/23)Spring is the perfect time to enjoy some new, fresh salad recipes. To help with that, I went looking for some recipes to try as the weather turns warmer and the days are longer. Before long we will be able to enjoy more garden fresh fruits and vegetables, but how blessed we are that we have these readily available to us almost year round...
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Lent-friendly recipes for everyone (3/16/23)It is an obvious observation that the season of Lent is upon us. Church fish fry dinners are abundant, restaurants offer fish meals in advertising and on the menus and the grocery stores are abundantly stocked with fish and all of the items needed to prepare fish dinners for Lent...
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Recipes to get you ready for St. Patrick's Day (3/9/23)It is almost time to make your shopping list and buy your beef brisket for St. Patrick's day. If you are like us, we will have plenty of leftovers to be creative in using it all up. Of course there's always sandwiches, but think outside the box and try something totally different to help use that delicious corned beef...
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A few dessert recipes for a reader (3/2/23)A long-time reader of this recipe column nudged me a little this week that I haven't shared any dessert recipes in a while. After giving it a few seconds of thought, I guess I haven't done an entire column designated just to desserts for a while. I had saved a few recipes recently that I wanted to make when I had an occasion to do so, and it was perfect timing to pass them along today. ...
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A few recipes for Lent, plus other recipes to look interesting (2/23/23)When sitting down to start this column I first thought about doing a column all on recipes for our wedding anniversary, which is this week. Then, I remembered it was the beginning of Lent, so I need to include a recipe or two that would work for Lent. Then, I found an interesting salad and a potato side dish that caught my eye, and so you get the idea...
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The search for new recipes seldom disappoints (2/16/23)I was talking to my niece a few days ago, and she was wanting a few new recipes, especially for main dishes to serve for supper. In the process of looking for a few recipes for her, I found a few that I want to make, too. I have mostly entree recipes, but I couldn't help but to throw in a chocolate raspberry brownie and a couple of salads. ...
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A variety of foods for watching the game (2/9/23)With the Kansas City Chiefs playing in the 2023 Super Bowl this Sunday, I cannot pass up the opportunity to talk up some game-watching recipes that will please everyone at your watch party. Those who know me well, know I am not a football lover and have never followed football before, but with a local team playing I feel like I need to hop on the bandwagon. However, I am more involved in the fellowship and snacks than the game itself...
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Not just meat and potatoes (2/2/23)Side dishes can be a wide variety of options. Potatoes, rice, grits, pasta and noodles can all be a go-to starch option, but then there are numerous vegetable options and there, the choices can almost be unlimited. Today I thought about some side dish recipes to use in place of potatoes, and, of course, I found a couple of recipes that I couldn't pass up, that I had to throw in as well...
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Recipes to get you through the winter months (1/26/23)Warm, winter comfort food is on the menu this week. As we push on through January, I went to some saved recipe files to look for a few recipes that you might enjoy as a pick-me-up on these short winter days. I have included a variety of protein choices so surely there will be something for everyone. I have not made beef shanks in a long time, so I am definitely going to add this to our supper rotation, and I know Scott will enjoy them!...
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Variety of soup recipes for those cold, winter nights (1/19/23)As I put recipes together for this week, the weather has turned cold, and hot soup sounds like the perfect supper. But by next week, the weather could be back up in the 60-degree range. It makes it hard to know what to wear when the temperatures fluctuate so much each week...
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Try these new recipes to get out of your main-dish rut (1/12/23)New entree recipes are the feature today to help you get out of your main dish-recipe rut. It is a new year, so why not try some new recipes? I have pulled together several recipes for you that may be new to you, or may be a twist to a familiar recipe you've made before...
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New recipes for the new year (1/5/23)We're starting off this new year of 2023 with some recipes that I have not made before. New recipes for the new year, and what a variety of recipes I have for you today! Each of these recipes are ones I have tagged or marked that I would like to make sometime, and now seems as good as any to share them with you...
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Recipes to help ring in the new year (12/29/22)Ringing in the new year holds something different for many people. A large gathering of family or friends, or maybe a quiet evening of a couple of friends and playing games or playing cards, or a big supper then off to bed to enjoy black-eyed peas the next day. Whatever your tradition is, I'm sure it will involve some great food...
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Recipes that you may want to add to your holiday meal (12/22/22)The last-minute crunch before Christmas is upon us. Maybe you need one more side dish, or you didn't get the turkey out in time and need an alternate entree, maybe a sweet to serve at brunch or a casual beverage to serve to everyone as they visit and enjoy the holiday. Well, I've got you covered...
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Brunch recipes for your family to enjoy (12/15/22)With the holidays upon us, families will be gathering together to spend time together. Breakfast or brunch will be a priority as members wake up to start another day of fun together. We have a few favorite recipes we always make when we are together, and I'm sure your family does as well. So, I thought I would pull together a few new recipes to try this Christmas season. I hope you enjoy them as much I think we will. Have fun!...
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A new recipe, a twist of an existing recipe (12/8/22)During this fun and exciting season of Christmas, we try many new and different foods. I like to look for recipes with a twist to an old favorite or a new recipe I've never made before. That made me think you may be one of those people, too. Today I have pulled together a few recipes you might like to add to your Christmas dinner or maybe a take-along dish to a dinner. I've included a couple of main dish alternatives to ham or turkey and a variety of other recipes you might find interesting...
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A whole lot of Christmas cookie recipes (12/1/22)Each year, I try to share an entire column of cookie recipes with you as a kickoff to Christmas cookie baking season. Many of these cookies freeze well, so you can get a jump on all that needs to be done in the weeks ahead. Tomorrow marks the 24th year of this recipe column (I think), and what a fun way to kick off another year than with lots of cookies!...
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Thanksgiving leftovers, the first Thanksgiving and an updated Thanksgiving (11/23/22)Happy Thanksgiving! It is crunch time to start your cooking for Thanksgiving. Your turkey is thawed and ready to go, make-ahead dishes are being prepared and refrigerated to bake later, and the table is set just ready for company. Such a busy time to prepare for such a special day. A day set aside for us to reflect and be thankful for all we are blessed with...
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Try something new for your Thanksgiving Day meal (11/17/22)As we quickly approach Thanksgiving, you are probably planning your menu and doing grocery shopping. But you may want to try something different this year. Maybe a different entree or side dish to change up your traditional menu to surprise your family...
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The versatile cranberry can be used in numerous ways (11/10/22)Fresh cranberries are in season now, but with frozen, dried and canned sauce options available, cranberries of various forms are now available all year long. I love cranberries, and I always look forward to stocking up the freezer for the year ahead...
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Enjoy the aromas and taste of autumn foods (11/3/22)The aroma and taste of autumn foods are so comforting and enjoyable to me. While I appreciate each season and the offers each brings, there is something very special about the smell of fall and winter foods cooking. The flavor combinations of apples, sweet potatoes, apple cider, maple syrup, cranberries and many more are unbeatable. In thinking about so many wonderful autumn foods, I found several recipes to share with you that you may find enjoyable on these beautiful fall days. Enjoy!...
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All about pumpkins (10/27/22)Pumpkin season has arrived, and you can find numerous items at the grocery store using pumpkin as an ingredient. There are plenty of recipes using pumpkin in sweet baked goods such as breads, muffins, cakes, cookies, pancakes and much more. But what about some different applications to use this seasonal favorite?...
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A cornucopia of recipes (10/20/22)You've heard it said to never go grocery shopping when you are hungry. That can also apply to writing this recipe column. After a long day with no lunch and approaching evening, I went looking for ideas to include in this week's column. I found ideas for football tailgating, nice supper entrees, delicious desserts and an old familiar super simple dessert, soup and a warm cider recipe that reeled me in from the picture. ...
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Use those gadgets in your kitchen (10/13/22)With the increased popularity of convenience appliances, you will find an abundance of recipes for every appliance you can think of. Instant pots and air fryers have been all the rage the past few years. I frequently remind people that good old pressure cookers have been around a long time, just not as simple to use as the newer electric automatic instant pots...
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Recipes for the fall season (10/6/22)Autumn flavors and scents are some of my very favorites. The rich, warm aroma of a dessert baking with cinnamon and spices makes the house smell so cozy. Add in the delicious crunch of fresh apples, or sweet potatoes cooking, and you paint a scene in your mind of fall!...
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Enjoy a few Octoberfest recipes (9/29/22)As we prepare to usher in October that means there will be many Octoberfest celebrations in the area. If you aren't one to go and participate in such events, you can certainly have your own Octoberfest in your home. Have friends and family as guests as you cook through several German recipes, enjoying some great food and fellowship...
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To sauce or not to sauce, it's your decision (9/22/22)Sauce on the side, extra sauce or light on the dressing, sauces and dressings are an important part of our eating. Even ketchup lovers will agree that fries are just vehicle to get the ketchup in their mouth. I must admit, on most foods I am a purist when it comes to a lot of sauces and dressings. ...
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Breakfast is the most important meal (9/15/22)Are you in a breakfast food rut and need a change? Maybe you have children in school and need to meal prep on the weekend for the week ahead breakfast meals. Whatever your situation, many say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. So why not embrace that idea with a few new recipes?...
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Fair food favorites that can be made at home (9/8/22)Local and state fairs are in full swing, and that means some really great food. At the SEMO District Fair, I have my favorite go-to stands and foods, and those are different from the East Perry County Fair or the DuQuoin State Fair. Each fair has its own food specialties, but all are interesting and good...
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New recipes for a new month (9/1/22)Time flies, and here we are ushering in another start to a new month. September has come quickly, and I see a few hints that fall is right around the corner. As we start a new month let's look at a few new recipes. Today is just a hodgepodge of this-and-that for you to kick-off this new month. Enjoy!...
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Baseball and the search for new recipes (8/25/22)Over the past week I have really enjoyed some great baseball on television, but while the game is on, I also look through cookbooks or look at recipe sites to see what's new. As I found a few recipes I want to try, I marked them to pass along to you. Main dishes, salads, desserts and a side dish or two...
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Try recipes from other states (8/18/22)With back-to-school time here, you may be ready to take a road trip break from babysitting grandchildren or just want to take a little road trip as travel volume is decreased after school starts. I know when the weather drops in temperature, I am ready to hit the road...
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Casserole recipes for the busy school year (8/11/22)Back-to-school time means busy schedules, return to somewhat of a routine and planned meals for supper when families are on the go. When our children were in school, I would make one or sometimes two casseroles to have on hand for quick and easy leftovers when time was a premium. The kids could fly in the door and easily warm up food as they headed to their next activity. I sure do miss those days!...
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Use those fresh fruits and vegetables while they are in season (8/4/22)I can't think of too many things in life more frustrating than getting a new computer and having to learn all new things. An unwanted upgrade to Windows 11 and new programs that I am not used to but need to learn. I love technology and I love it when it works, but when I am in a hurry and have to use new technology, it can be very frustrating. I'm sure you feel my pain...
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Plenty of fresh-vegetable recipes for a meat-free dinner (7/28/22)Can you get enough fresh vegetables during the summer? I know we sure can't. We were going to have a couple of friends over recently, and I told them what I was preparing, which included green beans and new potatoes, squash, tomatoes, cucumbers in vinegar, pickled beets, corn on the cob, cornbread and peaches for dessert. ...
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Recipes for the fresh produce that is in abundance (7/21/22)When the fresh fruits and vegetables of summer start coming in, it is just the best time of the year. Every one offers a new, exciting culinary party-in-your-mouth explosion. With so many ways to prepare fresh produce, you can't hardly cook it all fast enough to try many different recipes. But, then again, I am a traditionalist with much of the garden's bounty. I enjoy keeping things simple and just taste the vegetable or fruit as-is. Whatever your preference, the sky is the limit...
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Enjoy fresh garden produce in these recipes (7/14/22)With fresh garden produce coming in, I went looking for some recipes to include some of the wonderful abundance we will enjoy for the next few weeks. Recipes for peaches, zucchini, blackberries, sweet corn and raspberries. But as I was looking I couldn't resist the cool, refreshing shrimp salad recipe I found and a couple of other recipes I think you will enjoy...
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Bar cookies are good for summer get-togethers (7/7/22)Summer is the perfect time to have a few recipes for easy-to-serve bar cookies and treats. Whether going on a picnic, keeping the grandchildren or taking a treat to a get-together, bar cookies can be a delicious treat or dessert after a meal. Today I have found some recipes for you to have available whenever you need a sweet-treat pick-me-up. ...
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Celebrate our country's birthday with these recipes (6/30/22)Independence Day is certainly a reason to celebrate! It is such a fun holiday to be outdoors to play games, swim, crank homemade ice cream, spend time with friends and family and cook. For this Independence Day recipe column, I turned to Mr. Food and that online recipe site to find recipes that would be perfect for the holiday. I've included recipes for main dishes, side dishes, beverages and desserts that will add to your food buffet...
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Making more than lemonade out of lemons (6/23/22)Anyone who knows me well will know that when it comes to a sweet treat, I will almost always choose lemon, coconut or a fruit-flavored dessert over chocolate. Because my family is such a chocolate-loving family, I don't often get anything besides chocolate. But for my birthday, my daughter-in-law made sure I had a fabulous, layered lemon cake. It was such a nice surprise, and it was so refreshing and cool on that warm June day...
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Rhubarb: Love it or not? (6/16/22)It is rhubarb season here in Missouri, and this year's crop is a good one. I have found that people either really like rhubarb, or they don't. There is no in-between or gray area. For those who think they don't like it, I can't help but wonder if they have had it prepared properly and sweetened to make it a delicious treat...
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Recipes for those June bridal showers or special event (6/9/22)An upcoming special event always calls for a party, and that always includes food! Our friends, Lauren Dumey and David Muscat are going to be married in a few weeks, and that calls for a bridal shower to celebrate the happy couple. In planning the shower with friends, we tried to think of a few foods that would give a nod to Lauren's most recent residence in St. ...
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Recipes to celebrate summer (6/2/22)Today we are ushering in the month of June with some recipes that will surely please your family. I have put together a wide variety of recipes for you to try. Do you remember the classic peach cobbler recipe that you can make with any fruit, not just peaches? I found a couple of salad recipes that I am eager to make, an interesting chicken recipe and of couple of desserts to round out the meal...
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Getting ready for grilling season (5/26/22)Memorial Day weekend is sometimes referred to as the unofficial start to summer. And for many people that includes barbecue dinners and cookouts with friends and family. I have so many wonderful memories of my parents cooking hamburgers and pork steaks for a crowd of people. We never really knew how many were coming, but there was always plenty to go around, and they were always so happy to have company come...
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It's the time of year for strawberries (5/19/22)Tomorrow is my sister's birthday. She probably wouldn't like me telling her age, but Pat Baldwin and I are bookends in the family, as she is the oldest and I am the youngest. She is retired now and occasionally comes to see me at my full-time job during the week...
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New and fresh salad ideas (5/12/22)Are you in a rut with your salads and cold side salads? It is so easy to purchase the same or similar ingredients for your dinner salads, and I am just as guilty. So sometimes we just need to shake things up and look at new, fresh ideas. Today I started looking for new salads with bright, fresh ingredients of a wide variety, including lettuce, pasta, some with seafood, and others with tasty dressings that set the recipe apart from others. ...
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Sweet treats for those start-of-summer parties (5/5/22)The end of the school year is quickly approaching, wedding shower invitations are arriving, friends and family are going places and visiting out of town, and our calendar is full of activities and things to planned to do. It was a sudden switch to the busy spring and early summer schedule...
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Foods with ties to Kentucky for derby day (4/28/22)A couple of years ago when the world closed for COVID, one of the great sporting events I missed was the Kentucky Derby. The Run for the Roses is the longest-running sporting event in the United States, dating to 1875. Of course I love the actual running of the horses, but all of the tradition that leads up to the race is fascinating to me...
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Recipes made in home economics class (4/21/22)Some of my high school friends and I have been meeting occasionally for Tea and Talk the past few years, and we enjoy catching up and reminiscing about old times. In several of these sessions, we have relived our fun days in Home Economics class at Shawnee High School in Wolf Lake, Illinois. ...
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Side dishes great for warmer weather (4/14/22)As the weather will begin to turn warmer, you may be wanting some cool side dishes to serve through spring and summer. If you haven't finished your Easter menu shopping yet, you may consider one or more of these cool sides for your menu. When it comes to side dishes, the possibilities are too numerous to wade through. ...
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Desserts for your Easter gathering (4/7/22)Every Easter gathering deserves a sweet dessert for everyone. Some people like to keep things simple with a fruit salad or ice cream, but if you are feeling like a little more than that, I have just the recipes for you to try. Any of these desserts would be a nice addition to your Easter buffet, so consider adding a pie, cake or gelatin dessert to the menu you are planning. Enjoy!...
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Going retro for Easter 2022 (3/31/22)With Easter only a couple weeks away, I have already had a few people ask about what to serve as a side dish for their family meal. Many people serve ham as the main entree, and that pairs well with so many vegetables and fruits, making the possibilities nearly endless...
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Recipes you may use for various functions (3/24/22)While listening to the first spring training baseball game of the year on the radio, I am scrolling through some recipes I saved from various sites, and I found a few that I would like to make. In the back of my mind, I am always thinking about foods I will need to prepare in the near future, and I look for recipes that would be good for those occasions...
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Recipes to try for National Celery Month (3/17/22)Today is St. Patrick's Day and instead of doing recipes to serve on this day, I decided to give a nod to a green vegetable and celebrate national celery month! I didn't even know there was such a thing until I saw it on television one morning. Celery has far more delicious uses other than our favorite childhood Ants on a Log snack...
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A variety of recipes plus a few for St. Patrick's Day (3/10/22)I am seeing large displays of corned beef in the markets, which means St. Patrick's Day is surely around the corner. Corned beef is so easy to prepare and is good to use in other applications other than on a plate with cooked cabbage. Today I am sharing a variety of recipes, but I have included three recipes for Reuben-style dishes. A stuffed baked potato, a casserole and a delicious dip, all made from corned beef that you'll cook to enjoy with friends and family...
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Recipes for Lent (3/3/22)Many Christians observe the season of Lent, which is the 40 days from Ash Wednesday to Easter. Lent is a time of making sacrifices, study scripture in depth, pray and prepare for the death and resurrection of Jesus. As a part of sacrifice, some people make the choice to give up meat on Fridays and have fish or an alternate protein in their Friday meals...
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Celebrating an anniversary with food (2/24/22)Scott and I were married 32 years ago today, and it has been a wonderful journey together. Of course our cooking and dining habits are much different than a few years ago with our children grown and out of the house. Scott still enjoys our meals together and prefers more traditional, simpler dishes for our weeknight suppers. When we have more time to try new recipes on the weekends, it is fun to experiment and try new dishes...
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Cornmeal is a versatile ingredient for many recipes (2/17/22)Cornmeal is nutritious, inexpensive, very versatile and can be used in many applications in recipes. From breading proteins and vegetables for frying to cookies and pie and all in between. I personally really enjoy foods with cornmeal in them, and who doesn't love a nice slice of warm cornbread or a basket of hushpuppies?...
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Celebrating a birthday with a New Mexican theme (2/10/22)Happy 25th birthday to our daughter, Lexie. It doesn't seem possible she can already be 25 years old. Time has flown by, and I sure wish time would slow down. Lexie lives in Denver and enjoys occasional weekend trips to Taos and Santa Fe, New Mexico. When we visited her last fall, we made that trip, and we enjoyed the culture and, of course, the food...
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Make a sweet for your sweetie (2/3/22)As we look forward on the calendar we see Valentine's Day is coming quickly. There are so many fun things to do and make for Valentine's Day, so I wanted to give you plenty of time to get ready and start making treats for your loved ones. I have pulled a variety of recipes from small-bite snacks and treats to classic red velvet cake and even a red velvet banana bread I am excited to try...
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Snacks or finger foods just right for the next gameday (1/27/22)We're right in the middle of football and basketball season, and this usually involves friends and food. The food is typically snacks and finger foods at game time. We watch a tremendous amount of basketball at our house and for those of you who know Scott, when North Carolina is playing his world almost comes to a stop until the game is over. ...
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Soups and stews are good on a cold winter day (1/20/22)Soups and stews are a great winter staple to warm the tummies of friends and family. When it comes to soups and stews, there are unlimited possibilities for recipe options. Broth-based, creamy, beef, chicken, seafood, lots of vegetables or little amount, with beans or pasta — the list could go on for quite a long list...
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Recipes for a cold day (1/13/22)As I am writing this recipe column, it is a cold, cold day in Southeast Missouri. I am not very eager to get out and do much outside, so looking through recipes and cookbooks seems like the perfect activity for a couple of hours. In doing just that, I came across several recipes I thought were worthy of sharing with you today...
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Recipes perfect for the 12th Night of Christmas (1/6/22)Christmas day has come and gone but we are still in the Christmas season as we finish the 12 days of Christmas, and New Year's Eve celebrations are also behind us, so it is time to take a moment to dedicate a meal to Jan. 6, Epiphany or 12th Night...
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Recipes for the New Year (1/1/22)Through the Christmas season I have enjoyed looking for recipes that are new to me, and in the process I came across some old favorites, like candied orange peel, that I haven't made in a long time. It is fun to stick to tradition and prepare familiar family favorite recipes, but I also enjoy adding in new recipes to shake things up a bit...
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Appetizers and snacks for your party (12/25/21)Christmastime is here! If you are putting together a last-minute party or even something for the new year weekend, these recipes may help you plan the menu. After a big Christmas dinner, it is nice to have appetizers for the day after snacks or for after Christmas parties...
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Christmas candy (and cookies) for your holiday (12/16/21)There are so many wonderful treats and sweets around the holiday that don't fall in the cookie category, but are still delightful as filler and on a cookie or treat tray. Some of these recipes call themselves cookies, but I chose them anyway, to be in the sweet treat column today...
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Christmas cookies galore (12/9/21)Every year I look forward to the annual cookie recipe column in early December. I start looking for recipes that I want to try early in the season and compile them into a file and then can hardly wait to share them with you. For many years running now, the cookie column is the longest of the year and probably one of the more popular ones for sure...
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Cranberry recipes for fall and winter (12/2/21)Fresh cranberries are one of my favorite foods during fall and winter, so I try to use them in as many ways as I can. Luckily, dried cranberries are available all year and they can be a nice addition to many foods. I follow the US Cranberries page on Facebook and I enjoy the pictures of harvest and the process of gathering the berries in the pools of water. There are also many recipes on the page as well...
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How to use those Thanksgiving leftovers (11/24/21)We plan the menu, buy the groceries, prepare the feast and then deal with the leftovers. What do we do with all of the leftovers? Repurpose them into something else that is just as amazing as the main meal, just in a different form. From breakfast casserole to potato cakes to cranberry cake, we can use up leftovers in creative and fun ways and not get tired or bored with them...
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A twist on those Thanksgiving dishes (11/18/21)When planning the Thanksgiving Day menu, there are several items that are a tradition and just have to be on the table. But sometimes, it is fun to try a variation on a side dish or two. If you are used to green bean casserole, try making it a little different or change the way you prepare the carrots or even the salad...
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A variety of soup recipes (11/4/21)As we turn the calendar to November and set our clocks back one hour, it may also be time to pull out the stock pots and soup recipes. My lifelong dear friend, Scott Tucker, has a bumper crop of sweet potatoes this year. They have dug and harvested bushels of sweet potatoes this fall, so I had to include this sweet potato soup recipe for him...
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Fall isn't just apple season; enjoy these recipes using pears (10/28/21)Fall harvest and the turning of the leaves also bring fresh pears in abundance this year, and they are delicious. Where I work, we have been blessed with so many pears from the community. We have had buckets and bushels brought in to enjoy. With the pear crop being so sweet and good this year, I thought about different ways to use them. I hope you can enjoy these recipes and have fun trying new and different ways to use pears during this season...
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Recipes for fall-like weather (10/21/21)As we are approaching more fall-like weather and temperatures, our thoughts may turn to more savory and hearty meal ideas. Soups, casseroles, slow-cooker meals — or maybe a chili dog by a bonfire. I have included several here for you today as well as a couple of sweet treats you are sure to enjoy. The cinnamon roll "hack" for a quick and simple dessert or brunch is a great recipe to have in your files for something quick and easy...
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Pumpkin desserts galore (10/14/21)Last week I shared recipes using pumpkin in main dishes. I had several people ask me where the fall and pumpkin desserts were in that column. So today, I have pulled together several pumpkin dessert recipes for you to try through fall and winter. If you are able to go online and view this column, you will find many more recipes...
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Pumpkin: It's not just dessert (10/7/21)When most people think of pumpkin, they think of lattes, cakes, cookies, breads and pies — but pumpkin is so much more than cinnamon-spiced desserts. Today I have compiled an assortment of savory entree recipes that all use pumpkin as an ingredient. In addition, I threw in a delicious pumpkin pancake and French toast casserole recipe. These aren't savory but are wonderful entree recipes that highlight pumpkin as the main ingredient...
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A few recipes for those fall gatherings (9/30/21)As we wind up the month here on the last day, we look forward to October and all things fall and pumpkin. But before we turn the calendar page, I am taking a look at a few recipes I am eager to try. As I have been looking for different recipes for various things I need to plan for, I have come across several new recipes I am planning to make. These are mostly entree recipes, but I have thrown in a couple of sides and a dessert...
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Have an apple a day (9/23/21)Fresh apples are in season and it seems to be a really good year for all varieties. We love fresh apples to have with popcorn or just as a snack, but Scott would prefer to enjoy them in a pie or crisp. I have some great memories of family members organizing an all-day apple butter cooking, and it was so much fun. Certainly a good use when you have a bushel or more of apples to use...
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Ground beef recipes quick to prepare (9/16/21)School is back into full swing for many families and that means busy schedules and supper on the run. My niece has two children involved in sports and many after school activities. I talk to her almost every day and it sure brings back memories of our busy days with children in school and after-school activities. She does a great job meal prepping and weekend cooking for the week, and I am so proud of her for cooking for her family and teaching them to cook as well...
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Recipes for when it's just the two of you (9/9/21)I was visiting with a gentleman at church a couple of weeks ago, and he suggested I share a few recipes for cooking for two and smaller serving sized recipes. Our discussion made me realize how I have had to adjust to cooking for two over the past couple of years. It is very different cooking such small quantities and a hard habit to break...
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Using technology to find recipes (9/2/21)Technology is wonderful when it works, but when it doesn't, it is inconvenient and stressful. My work computer had a major malfunction, and I had to be without it for a few days. Coming up on the end-of-the-month responsibilities and payroll coming due, I was a little worried about how to get everything finished...
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No-bake desserts help beat the heat (8/26/21)No-bake desserts are a nice treat on a hot day. Delicious cool desserts that don't require using the oven, they keep well for several days, and can be made ahead of serving time. All of these things considered, these cool and refreshing desserts are a win for hot, humid August days...
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It's just peachy (8/19/21)Fresh peach season lasts such a short time you have to make the best of it while it is here. The peaches have been delicious this year, and Scott and I have a couple every evening after supper as our dessert. But as much as we enjoy them as-is, just a fresh bowl of peeled and sliced peaches, I also enjoy making other dishes using them...
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Trying new recipes (8/12/21)While looking through some recently saved recipes I came across a few that I am eager to try. Potato chip krispie treats and popcorn salad sound interesting and very different. Other recipes I saved were a little more common, yet sound worthy of a try...
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It's all about zucchini (8/5/21)At one time or another we've probably all heard the jokes about not leaving your car windows down in the summer or you may find several zucchini in your car when you return. Zucchini grows so easily and plentiful. Some say you can almost see it grow in the peak of season. If you miss one today, it might be too big tomorrow...
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Trying some new and some familiar recipes (7/29/21)While it is so hot outside, I enjoy some extra time inside looking at cookbooks and recipe sites that I enjoy following. I always find new recipes to try and also come across some old familiar recipes I haven't made in a long time. It is fun to recall serving recipes from years ago and make them again...
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Recipes for anyone with an abundant garden (7/22/21)Fresh fruit and vegetables are coming into the peak of the season, and it looks like an abundant crop. The peaches are delicious, and the sweet corn has been wonderful. For those who have their own garden, it can be an abundance all at once, so you may need a few new recipes to help use the crop...
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A cool drink on a hot summer day (7/15/21)A cool refreshing beverage tastes good on a hot, humid July day. Even in the morning, it is already hot, and you may want a cold smoothie to start your day. Fresh fruit juice along with fresh fruit and lots of ice make a perfect treat on a hot day. I noticed the Hallmark channel is running Christmas in July movies, so I included a frozen hot chocolate drink for those of you who enjoy watching Christmas movies in July...
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Have crackers, will travel (7/8/21)Vacation season is in full swing and that calls for snack treats for the car ride. If we are on a long drive, my husband likes a little snack occasionally. Something crisp and crunchy tastes good while driving, along with an ice cold cup of tea. I have several recipes today that all start with some type of cracker, then you finish the recipe. I've chosen spicy, savory, sweet and all delicious...
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Cool sides and desserts for your July 4th cookout (7/1/21)The Independence Day holiday weekend is quickly approaching and for many people that will include a cookout, picnic, BBQ or gathering of some kind. It is usually summertime weather being hot and humid, so cool side dishes and desserts taste especially good...
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Cooking in a heat wave (6/24/21)As I am writing this recipe column for this week, it is so hot outside. When it is this hot, we might not feel like cooking. But the needs of our families require us to feed those we love. With that said, I started searching for new recipes that want to make me cook and try them because they sound good enough I can't resist...
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Recipes from a recent retiree (6/17/21)My sister, Barb Kinsey, recently retired after 50 years of faithful service to Southeast Missouri State University. Barb worked most of that time in University Relations and Athletics. She has worked numerous basketball and football games through the years, and has enjoyed meeting so many wonderful people along the way through 50 years...
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Survive the heat with these cool recipes (6/10/21)School is out for summer and that may bring family gatherings, picnics or get-togethers with special friends. As the weather turns warmer, we might turn to cool side salads and dessert recipes. Quite often I am asked about side dishes and salads to serve with cookout foods, so I have chosen several for you to try all summer long...
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Sauces to 'dress' up any food (6/3/21)Sauces and dressings can add so much flavor to what may seem like ordinary foods. A simple dipping sauce and a special dressing can elevate a snack or salad into an upscale treat with only a few simple ingredients. Today I have pulled together a few of our favorite sauces and dressings to pass along to you. Give them a try and be creative to come up with a few ways to use some of these flavorful recipes. Enjoy!...
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It's a lemon dessert (5/27/21)When it comes to choosing a sweet treat or dessert, I would almost always choose anything lemon or berries over chocolate. This isn't to say I don't like chocolate, I just enjoy lemon and anything with berries more. I started pulling up recipes for this column, and I have saved so many lemon recipes that it will take us all summer to make our way through making them all...
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Celebrating a sister's birthday (5/20/21)Today is my sister's birthday, and it is a milestone birthday — one with a zero on the end. Pat is the oldest of the six Kinsey children and has been a mother-figure to me, as I am the youngest of the six, and a mother-figure to all of our children. She is fun-loving, and it's always a good time when "Aunt Pat" is around...
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Simple recipes to try this week (5/13/21)I stumbled upon this bacon and corn griddle cake recipe recently and want to make them for a breakfast very soon. We enjoy corn in many different recipes, so I was intrigued by this griddle cake recipe. Of course I found many other recipes I want to try while I was reading through a few food blogs and social media sites that I follow. Most of the recipes today are simple, yet look promising for full flavor and enjoyment...
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Sides for those May party meals (5/6/21)May is always a full month of gatherings for Mother's Day, graduation parties and Memorial Day, and when family and friends get together, there is almost always good food. Typically the main entree is an easy decision, but then there are endless possibilities for side dishes...
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Veggie season is about to begin (4/29/21)It doesn't seem possible that we are already to farmers market season. Spring vegetables are coming in, and produce will last until late fall. There are months ahead for this delicious, bountiful harvest. The unfortunate part of working full-time is that we miss getting to go to the weekday market and rely on grocery store produce to get us through...
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Trying new recipes for spring (4/22/21)I find it so much fun to try new recipes, and spring seems just the right time to break out some new recipes. Recently I have found so many recipes that sound interesting and delicious. It looks like we will be cooking our way through another season with fun new dining delights. Today you'll find a wide variety of recipes from main dish ideas to desserts and everything in between. Enjoy!...
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Snack recipes for a night of playing cards (4/15/21)Through the Covid-19 pandemic we have enjoyed playing cards when there weren't many other activities we could be doing around town. We have close friends who were also being very safe and careful of the virus, so we continued to play cards right through the pandemic...
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Recipes for different types of weather (4/8/21)Springtime in Southeast Missouri can throw some wild weather curves on occasion. As I am writing this recipe column it is quite chilly, but in just a couple of days it will be in the mid-70s and then temperatures will jump around for a few days before turning unseasonably warm. It sure makes it difficult to plan on what to wear to work, and what to cook...
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Variety of recipes for a variety of events (4/1/21)When thinking about what I would want to write about today, I just couldn't decide. Today is April Fool's Day, tomorrow is my husband's birthday, Sunday is Easter and Monday is the NCAA basketball championship game, all of which are special to us. An entire column on Scott's birthday would be pretty easy and would feature several really good meat entree recipes. ...
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A variety of salads for spring (3/25/21)There is a feeling of spring in the air, and it draws me to new and different salad recipes that I would like to try. I looked for a variety of recipes that include some type of protein, fruit and vegetables to make things interesting. Of course, the nice thing about salad recipes is that the recipe is just a guide and you can customize to your own preferences...
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Treat recipes for man's best friend (3/18/21)In the 23 years I have been fortunate enough to write a recipe column for you, I have never shared recipes for homemade dog treats or biscuits. Recently I have had a few people ask me about putting a few dog treat recipes together and sharing with readers. If you do not own a dog, there are plenty of people who do and would welcome your treats, and of course the shelters would know of pups that would love homemade treats...
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A variety of recipes to try (3/11/21)Recently I have stumbled upon several recipes that sound interesting and I think I will save them for later and give them a try. Eventually I go back and revisit the saved items and pull a few out to try and to share with you. Today I have a wide variety of recipes from appetizers to desserts for you to take a look at and plan to put into your own recipe files. Have fun and be sure to go online to read all of the recipes shared with you today...
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Recipes for Lent (3/4/21)As we are into the season of Lent, I wanted to share a few recipes that some of you may be able to use for your family meals during Lent. If your family does not observe this season, the recipes are still tasty and worthy of adding to your planned menus...
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Recipes to celebrate another year of marriage (2/25/21)After cooking for Scott for 31 years now, I know his food preferences very well. Yesterday was our wedding anniversary and I always try to make it a special day for us. I usually cook at home and when our children were still at home we made it a fun, nice, family dinner...
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Sheet-pan meals all the rage (2/18/21)Sheet pan meals have become very popular recently and once you try them, you may be hooked. They are simple to put together with easy clean-up and are, for the most part, very economical. My lifelong dear friends, Ray and Joan Haring, messaged me and asked if I could find a few sheet pan meal recipes for them. ...
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Recipes for you and your Valentine (2/11/21)Valentine's Day dinners for many couples may look a little different this year with the pandemic. Many couples may choose to prepare their dinner at home and stay in this year. There are so many great recipes that are pretty simple to prepare, it can be easy to convince myself to cook at home and have dinner and a movie...
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A few game-day recipes (2/4/21)The biggest football game of the year is coming in a few days, and that means snacks, finger foods and treats in front of the television to enjoy the game. Some football fans enjoy their own food traditions, such as chili, barbecue or loaded baked potato bar, but at our house, we usually do a few finger foods and appetizer type items to enjoy throughout the game...
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Old-school recipes with new twists (1/28/21)It has been a while since we took a look at a few old school, vintage or retro recipes together. What got me thinking about some older recipes from days gone by was baked spaghetti. I used to make it a long time ago but I haven't now in several years, so I decided to go find the recipe. In that process I came across a few others that had a newer spin or twist to them, so I wanted to share those as well...
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Use what's in your pantry (1/21/21)I have a few grocery items left over from the Christmas season and I need to use them up. I had a half head of cabbage from making vegetable beef soup, a couple of bags of fresh cranberries, some smoked beef sausage and frozen shrimp from making a low country boil, and a tube of convenience biscuits left from making an appetizer, to mention just a few. ...
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New year, new cooking adventures (1/14/21)A new year and a few new recipes to kick-start your new year menu planning. Today, I have a few entree recipes, a couple of salads and a few desserts to start your cooking adventures. All of the recipes today are pretty easy to prepare but are tasty for family or guests. Recipes don't have to be complicated to be good, so give these a try as we kick off a new year of cooking together...
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Some new recipes for you to try (1/7/21)Through the Christmas season we tried a few new recipes and I wanted to pass them along to you. Most are pretty simple yet good. The chili and coffee rub is excellent on beef tenderloin, but can be used for any nice beef cuts. The Santa cookies were a very cute addition to cookie trays and the chocolate peppermint cookies not only tasted good, they were pretty as well. ...
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Finger foods to ring in the new year (12/31/20)I think it goes without saying that 2020 has been the oddest and most different year we have ever seen. I don't know very many people, or any at all for that matter, who are sorry to see 2020 go away and not ready to welcome a new year. As 2020 comes to a close for us, there are no travel memories or new photos for the vacation photo album, no pictures from family gatherings and now no big new year's eve party or celebration. ...
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A few more Christmas recipes (12/17/20)I hope with the Christmas season upon us, you will be able to enjoy family during the holiday season. This year is very different, and many traditions will not be happening or may be modified a bit to accommodate family and friends. I started this column looking for alternate entree choices in place of turkey, and as is my normal case, I came across other recipes that called me to share them with you. ...
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Christmas morning breakfast recipes (12/10/20)The excitement of Christmas is building for many families as lights adorn houses around town, radio stations are playing Christmas music, and plans are being made to gather with loved ones. You may have a tradition of a Christmas morning breakfast or brunch at your house, as we do. I enjoy trying different recipes, so I have already started planning what I will be making. As I have found recipes that are in my "possible" list for this year, I thought you might enjoy seeing them as well...
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Cookies the Cookie Monster would love (12/3/20)Every year I start putting together what becomes the largest recipe column of the year; the annual cookie recipe column. This year I started putting together cookie recipes that are not some of the more common cookies you might think of. Almost everyone has their favorite cookies that they make each year, often times with family and friends, and some of those recipes may be many years old. To shake things up a bit this year, I've gathered a variety for you to choose from...
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Thankful for leftovers (11/24/20)During this season of Thanksgiving, I can't get enough of all of the great recipes popping up on so many of the cooking sites I follow and read. Although Thanksgiving is just a few days away, I still want to share a few recipes with you as well as ways to use up your leftovers from your feast...
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Thanksgiving side dishes galore (11/19/20)Many families have traditions when it comes to what they will serve at Thanksgiving. My personal favorite is our family tradition of hand-ground cranberry relish. I love it alongside the traditional meal, on a hot roll or on the leftover turkey sandwich the next day. I can enjoy it like candy, that's why I stock up on cranberries while they are in season and freeze for later use...
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Appetizers and desserts for Thanksgiving (11/12/20)It is quite possible that Thanksgiving may be a little different this year for many families. It may be that people do not feel comfortable gathering together in groups or maybe choose not to travel long distances. Whatever your plans are this year for Thanksgiving, I hope it includes a few nice appetizers and a delicious dessert or two...
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Cranberry recipes for the holiday season (11/5/20)Now that the calendar has turned to November, I feel like it is fair game to start with all of the holiday season recipe columns. I have several planned for you over the next several weeks, and we will kick off the holiday recipe season with cranberries...
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A variety of recipes to close out October (10/29/20)I'm cleaning up a small collection of recipes that I put aside to try this fall and sharing several with you here today. For the next several weeks, these recipe columns will feature foods as we look ahead to Thanksgiving and Christmas. But for today, I wanted to finish up October with a variety of entree recipes, a couple of appetizers and a fabulous looking pecan upside down cake I cannot wait to try...
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Soup's on for the season (10/22/20)I do love soup, stew and chowder and almost even more, I love looking for new recipes for these delicious fall and winter bowls of goodness. My daughter-in-law, Anna, enjoys cooking, and I have fun sharing recipes with her that I think she and Ross will enjoy. ...
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Get that fire going for these great recipes (10/15/20)Bonfires are one of my favorite things about fall, and I could have one going nearly every evening and be very happy about it. I'm not a hot dog lover, so I am content to serve just about anything by the fire. Scott and I have even had pizza by the fire and enjoyed it very much...
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Pumpkin spice up your day (10/8/20)When pumpkin recipes start filling my Facebook feed, I can't help myself from saving many of them. When I thought about sharing some of these recipes with you and started looking at them, the vast majority of them were sweets and desserts. But then I started finding hearty, savory recipes with pumpkin as the main ingredient...
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It's Fall, y'all (10/1/20)The official start to fall has arrived and so has my desire to start cooking some recipes from our fall and winter recipe files and cookbooks. As soon as there is a chill in the air, I have a desire for a pot of soup and something from the oven that puts off the scent of apples and cinnamon. I have so many recipes that we enjoy in the fall that sometimes it is hard to decide what to make...
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A variety of good-sounding recipes to try out (9/24/20)In addition to reading cookbooks from my own collection or those that have been loaned to me, I follow several cooking blogs and Facebook recipe sites. Truth be known, I probably follow way too many, but I always learn something and enjoy reading the recipes. ...
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Missing the fair? Make your own fair food. (9/17/20)Normally this time of year, Scott and I would be looking forward to heading off to the East Perry County Fair, after having already been to the SEMO District Fair. Things are so different this year with most festivals and fairs canceled, and we find ourselves missing it all so much...
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'Potato pumpkin' recipes to try (9/10/20)My very dear, lifelong friend, Scott Tucker, shared a few "potato pumpkins" with me recently. These large, green and white striped, crook-neck squash were new to me, so I had to do a little studying. His sweet parents, Bob and Clara Mae, are like another set of parents to me and they were quick to explain to me how to cook them...
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Recipes to add to your outdoor grilling (9/3/20)The long Labor Day weekend is just around the corner, and you may be planning to have family or friends over for a meal on your day off from work. Many people will be grilling outdoors, so you might need some side dish ideas to go along with your planned entree...