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Tutorial on How to Smoke Meat Using Your Oven

Main Dishes

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December 9, 2020

Tutorial on How to Smoke Meat Using Your Oven

For truly "tender, fall off the bone, make your friends jealous, rival the rib joints" style meat, the best method is slow and low. With just a few basic items that you can pick up at almost any large grocery store you can even fashion yourself a mini-smoker to infuse that lovely meat with the taste of the Southern barbecue you've been craving.

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Things You\’ll Need

Meat to smoke
Dry rub, if using
Wood chips
Water
Baking sheet
Wire rack
Aluminum baking pan
Disposable aluminum grill pan or veggie tray
Aluminum foil
Optional: Barbeque sauce

Step 1: Soak the Wood Chips

Place about 2 cups of wood chips in a large bowl, cover with water. Soak for two hours. Drain, reserving a few tablespoons of the soaking water.

Step 2: Add the Wood Chips to a Baking Sheet

Spread the wood chips evenly onto a large rimmed baking sheet, adding a little bit of the soaking liquid.

Step 3: Add a Wire Rack

Step 4: Poke Holes in the Baking Pan

Poke several holes in the sides of the baking pan (not the bottom), and place over the wire rack.

Step 5: Add Meat to the Grill Pan

Dry rub the meat, if desired, then place on a disposable aluminum grill pan or veggie tray over the prepared aluminum baking pan.

Step 6: Cover with Lots of Aluminum Foil

Cover the entire make-shift smoker with several layers of aluminum foil making sure that there are no holes or gaps in order to effectively trap the smoke inside.

Step 7: Bake

Place the oven rack in the lowest position. Bake the meat at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 1/2 hours.

Step 8: Remove from Oven

Let cool slightly before removing the foil.

Step 9: Sauce (if Desired) and Serve

If you want, slather on some sauce before serving.

Eat More Veggies With These Recipes (And Enjoy It)

Veggie Faves

Jenny Kim

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December 8, 2020

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Eat More Veggies With These Recipes (And Enjoy It)

Sadly, incorporating more greens into your diet is not quite as easy (or fun) as amping up your daily chocolate intake. Luckily, it's still possible to enjoy all the stuff you already like (that includes you, brownie!) while adding to the recommended daily serving of vegetables.

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1. Cauliflower Pizza Crust

Sure, you can pile vegetables onto the dough of your choice and give yourself a high-five; but eliminating the processed carb and swapping it for cauliflower? Now you're talking.

2. Vegetarian Enchilada

There's no need to feel guilty about eating this hot, melt-y goodness. Instead of the usual meat that fills up this dish, it's righteously replaced by sweet potatoes and black beans (or any vegetables you have a propensity for). To make it a complete veggie lover's dish, opt for soy-based cheese to sprinkle on top.

3. Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Got a fork? Good, because that's literally the only tool you need to make this faux pasta. Simply roast a spaghetti squash (yes, that's its name) and shred it with your trusty utensil. Top with our roasted garlic pasta sauce and you've got yourself a seriously well-balanced dinner.

4. Kale Fried Rice

Let's play the word association game with fried rice. We're betting your first choice would be pork (pineapple, a close second). Kale? Not likely. Try this once, though, and you'll be fixing up a batch of these whenever you have a hankering for a little fried rice action that packs a nutritious punch.

5. Veggie Ramen

Even ramen can get a healthy makeover with the addition of fresh vegetables like broccoli, spinach and bok choy. Miso paste gives loads of unctuous umami flavor, so you can enjoy comfort in a bowl and feel good about it from the inside out. Want more ideas on how to win with ramen? Find out how our resident food expert, Mary Dacuma, decks hers out.

6. Flourless Fudge Brownies

We told you there was dessert involved! This amazing recipe is so easy and—dare we say it?—healthy. The addition of coffee brings out depth and helps you mentally block out the fact that these are made of black beans.

7. Low-Carb Breakfast Burrito

Collard green is bringing its "A" game to the breakfast scene in an unexpected way. Enjoy a low-carb burrito packed with nutrients by wrapping up scrambled eggs, avocado, black beans, and cheese in this hearty leaf.

8. Morning Glory Muffins

Just because you're always on the go doesn't mean you have to resort to chocolate chip muffins. These are made with good-for-you carrots, apples, and walnuts so even if you're having a frazzled morning, you can grab one for the road and fuel yourself without physically crashing an hour later.

9. Omega-3 Omelete

If you've denigrated this quintessential breakfast dish to cheesy concoctions loaded with cubes of processed ham, it's time to graduate to this wholesome version with mushrooms, spinach, and hemp seeds.

10. Old-Fashioned Carrot Cake

We know, this one is a bit of a cheat but carrot cake is hands down, the best dessert to justify an indulgence. And indulgence this is. Sprinkle some chopped walnuts over the cream cheese frosting and your cravings are instantly rationalized–in case the "It's calling my name" rationale isn't cutting it.

11. Broccoli Rice Casserole

Eating comfort food need not equate with heavy dishes filled with artificial ingredients you'll regret eating the next day. This casserole dish is filled with fresh broccoli and once you get a whiff of it coming out of the oven, you'll never resort to eating store-bought again.

12. Zucchini Bread

If you love banana loaf bread, get ready to be converted into a zucchini fanatic. It has an incredibly moist center and our version is a cinch to make. So really, there's no excuse for not getting enough of this vegetable.

13. Moroccan Cauliflower With Couscous

Who says steaks have to consist of red meat? Take a thick slice of the humble cauliflower, season it with cumin, coriander and cinnamon and place it over a bed of couscous for a Moroccan-inspired fare.

14. Kale and Sausage Galette

We hear you. Just because you want to eat more vegetables does not mean you want to give up meat. The pork sausage in this rustic French dish brings a ton of flavor, perfectly accompanied by warm kale leaves.

15. Spinach Quiche

Who knew spinach could be so decadent? A buttery shell and creamy filling make a wonderful dish that lets you forget just how much of this vegetable you're eating.

Easy to Make Maine Lobster Rolls Recipe

Main Dishes

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December 8, 2020

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There isn't a sandwich that feels more like a royal feast than a lobster roll. The idea of making one can be a bit daunting for anyone who has never tried the task, but it's really quite simple. For those of us who would rather not wrestle a live lobster, a half a dozen lobster tails will do the trick. Simple and easy is the name of the game with this recipe–too many ingredients and the true lobster flavors are lost. Add some lettuce if you're feeling it, but keep it simple.

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Things You\’ll Need

6 (3-4 oz) lobster tails
1/3 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 rib celery, finely chopped
2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon chives, chopped
½ teaspoon hot sauce
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
4 split top rolls
3 tablespoons butter

Step 1: Cut the Lobster

Cut the lobster down the center lengthwise, and rinse out any vein that may be in there.

Step 2: Boil

Add the lobster to a pot of well-salted boiling water. Boil until the tails turn red, about 4 minutes.

Step 3: Remove the Meat

Once the lobster tails have cooled, remove the meat from the shell and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Make the Filling

Stir together the lobster meat, mayonnaise (or sour cream), lemon juice, celery, parsley, chives, hot sauce, salt and pepper.

Step 5: Toast the Rolls

Melt the butter in a large skillet. Add the rolls, browning on both cut sides.

Tip

If you can't find traditional split-top rolls, just slice a thin section of the sides off of a hoagie roll that has not been sliced, then cut down through the top.

Step 6: Fill and Serve

Tip

Need to make this in advance? Cook the lobster, chop and keep in an airtight container in the fridge. Stir together the filling ingredients (besides the lobster) and store in separate container. Stir the lobster into the filling ingredients then add to the rolls just before serving.

DIY Back-to-School Cupcakes

Sweet Treats

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December 7, 2020

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eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Get kids excited to go back to school with these adorable school-themed cupcakes. They're topped with yummy, edible books, binder paper, pencils and rulers to get everyone in the school spirit. No matter what grades they're earning this year, you've already got yourself an A+ in treats.

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Things You\’ll Need

White fondant
Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies
Red and blue edible markers
Yellow fondant
Vanilla wafers
Black cookie icing
Pepperidge Farm Pirouette Cookies
Pink fondant
Black fondant
Blue fondant
Red fondant
Green fondant
Cupcakes
Frosting
Black and white sprinkles

Make the Binder Paper

Step 1: Roll the Fondant

Roll a piece of white fondant to about one-eighth inch thick.

Pepperidge Farm Chessmen Cookies are the perfect shape and size for the binder paper. Position the cookie on top of the rolled fondant, and cut off the excess fondant surrounding the cookie.

Flip the cookie and fondant over. Press the fondant into the sides of the cookie to secure it. The fondant will be stretchable at this point, so you can work it around the edges.

Step 3: Draw the Lines

Using a marker with blue edible ink, draw horizontal lines across the fondant-covered cookie. A ruler can help you draw straight lines. Use a marker with red edible ink to draw one vertical line along the left side.

Make the Rulers

Step 1: Roll Yellow Fondant

Roll a piece of yellow fondant into an oval shape that is about one-eighth inch thick.

Step 2: Attach a Vanilla Wafer

Trim a vanilla wafer to about three inches in length.

Position the vanilla wafer on top of the rolled yellow fondant, and trim the excess fondant around the wafer.

Flip the wafer and fondant over. Press the fondant around the edges of the wafer to secure it.

Step 3: Draw the Measurement Marks

With cookie icing, draw alternating short and long measurement marks along one edge of the yellow fondant-covered ruler. Cookie icing dries hard in about an hour, so it will not smudge when you touch it.

Make the Pencils

Step 1: Cut Pieces of Pirouettes

Pepperidge Farm Pirouettes are long, cylinder-shaped cookies that are perfect as the core of our edible pencils. Cut the Pirouettes into sections that are about one and a half inches long.

Step 2: Wrap Pirouettes in Fondant

Roll out pieces of yellow fondant to about an eighth-inch thickness. Then wrap the pirouettes in the fondant.

Trim the excess fondant at the ends.

Step 3: Attach the Pointed End

To create the sharpened end of the pencil, mold a small piece of white fondant into a cone and attach it to one end of the yellow cylinder. Press the two pieces of fondant together to help them adhere.

Step 4: Attach the Eraser

Roll a small piece of pink fondant into a ball and press it into the other end of the yellow cylinder.

Step 5: Finish with Black Details

Roll a piece of black fondant flat to about an eighth-inch thickness. Cut long skinny strips out of the fondant.

Wrap the strips of black fondant around the pencil between the yellow section and the eraser.

Attach a small dot of black fondant at the very tip for the pencil lead.

Make the Books

Step 1: Cut Vanilla Wafers

For the interior of the books, we're once again using vanilla wafers. Cut the wafers into rectangular shapes. With each wafer, you can make three to four books.

Step 2: Wrap Fondant Book Cover Around Wafer

Roll a piece of fondant in the color of your choice to about an eighth-inch thickness, making sure it is more than twice the size of your wafer. Position the wafer on the right side of the fondant.

Tip

To help the wafer adhere to the book cover, lightly moisten the fondant.

Trim the excess fondant around the wafer on the top and bottom as well as the right side, leaving a little bit of fondant extending past the edges of the wafer. Leave the extra fondant on the left side for now.

Pull the fondant to the left of the wafer over the wafer like you are closing a book.

Flip the book over and cut off the excess fondant on the bottom.

Step 3: Mark the Spine

With the dull edge of a knife, score an indentation mark on the left side of the book for the spine.

Make the Apple

Step 1: Roll Red Fondant

The books look especially sweet with an apple on top. Roll a piece of red fondant into a small ball. With a toothpick, create a crater at the top of the red ball.

Step 2: Attach Fondant Leaf

Attach a small tear drop-shaped piece of green fondant on top of the apple for the leaf.

Assemble the Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes

Bake the cupcakes either from scratch or with a box mix. I used a box mix because I just love yellow cake mix.

We want the cupcakes to have a relatively flat surface so the elements that are placed on top will stay steady. If your cupcakes have a big dome on them, trim the tops to make them flat.

Step 2: Frost the Cupcakes

Spread a layer of frosting on top of the cupcakes. I used store-bought chocolate frosting and applied it with a piping bag. You can also spread it with a spatula, but I find that a piping bag gives me better control.

Step 3: Add Sprinkles

Shake some black and white sprinkles on top of the frosting, especially around the outer edges. The black and white sprinkles make the surface of the cupcake look like a black and white composition book.

Step 4: Position the Toppers

The rectangular cookie depicting binder paper will be the common element in all the cupcakes. I wanted the books, pencils and rulers to sit on the binder paper cookies rather than just sitting on top of the frosting where they could sink in or slide off. Place the binder paper cookie on top of the cupcake and gently press down to let the frosting adhere to the bottom of the cookie.

Now you can place the other elements on top of the binder paper platform. For the pencils and the rulers, lightly moisten the bottoms where they will make contact with the fondant on the binder paper. The moisture will help them adhere and stay in place.

For the book, moisten the bottom and attach it to the binder paper. Then moisten the bottom of the apple and adhere it to the top of the book.

You could say these cupcakes have "class."

8 Quick and Easy Pasta Dishes

Food Hacks

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December 7, 2020

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Pasta is a terrific meal option because it's inexpensive, easy to cook and makes for tasty leftovers. Even more, it's so versatile that you can make any dish flavorfully prepared to your liking. The next time you're looking for an easy and filling homemade meal, try one of these 30-minute pasta recipes that will be sure to give Rachael Ray a run for her money.

Instantly get your own customized menu based on your pins with our new What's for Dinner, Pinner experience!

Image Credit: Demand Media 2 of 9

Spaghetti With Bacon, Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese

For a pasta dish that takes little effort to prepare, try this spaghetti with bacon, caramelized onions and goat cheese recipe. Safely boil your spaghetti while caramelizing the onions to save even more time. Then serve it with a generous topping of goat cheese and bacon for an impressive looking plate.

Upgrade Your Spaghetti with Bacon, Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese

Image Credit: Jennifer Farley/Demand Media 3 of 9

Linguine With Sautéed Swiss Chard, Summer Squash and Bacon

This linguine pasta makes for a refreshing weeknight dinner. By mixing summer vegetables — such as zucchini, yellow squash and Swiss chard — with bacon, you can serve up a well-rounded and colorful meal.

30-Minute Linguini with Bacon and Summer Vegetables

Image Credit: Yvette Marquez/Demand Media 4 of 9

Prosciutto Carbonara Pasta

Prosciutto carbonara pasta is a deliciously filling comfort food that takes little time to prepare. The creamy egg sauce combined with crispy prosciutto and chives will have you and your loved ones finishing this meal as quickly as it took to make it.

Prosciutto Carbonara Pasta in 20 Minutes or Less

Image Credit: Shaina Olmanson/Demand Media 5 of 9

Basil Pesto Linguine

Step up your pasta game with your own homemade pesto sauce. Combine toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, garlic, cheese and olive oil in a food processor. Toss with cooked linguine, and you'll have a flavorful dish in no time at all.

Quick and Easy Basil Pesto Linguine

Image Credit: Jennifer Farley/Demand Media 6 of 9

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

This classic Italian dish can be cooked at home in a pinch. With just a few ingredients including shrimp, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream and garlic, you can easily make this pasta favorite any night of the week.

How to Make Easy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo From Scratch

Image Credit: Mary Dacuma/Demand Media 7 of 9

Chipotle Cilantro Pesto Pasta

Chipotle cilantro pesto pasta combines Latin American flavors and gives you a dish with a kick. You can save any leftover sauce — and when you're ready to eat, just boil your pasta and toss with the pesto for a quick and easy meal.

Chipotle Cilantro Pesto Pasta

Image Credit: Sala Kannan/Demand Media 8 of 9

One-Pot Caprese Pasta

This Caprese pasta recipe saves time by cooking the pasta and ingredients in the same pot, simultaneously. By simmering the uncooked pasta and fixings in red wine and water, the pasta will retain more flavor and will be ready in just 20 minutes.

One-Pot Caprese Pasta

Image Credit: Shaina Olmanson/Demand Media 9 of 9

Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

If you need to get dinner on the table fast, this chicken and spinach skillet pasta is a great option. Cook everything together in the same skillet, and in just a half-hour, you will have a hearty meal ready to serve.

Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

Image Credit: Valerie Brunmeier/Demand Media

How to Make Homemade Vodka

drinks-cocktails

Michelle Powell-Smith

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December 7, 2020

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Things You\’ll Need

Small home still, available from many home-brewing supply shops
Distilled water
Flaked wheat
Wheat malt
Citric acid
Gypsum
Bleach
Large stock pot
PH testing strips
Dairy thermometer
Two 30-plus liter fermenters
One packet vodka yeast
Wine-making hydrometer and cylinder
Straining bag
Activated carbon filter

While many people brew their own beer and experiment with wine making, far fewer tackle the challenge of making their own hard liquor. Distilling vodka requires only simple ingredients but somewhat more substantial equipment. Allow space, time and room for failure as you learn to make vodka. Once you can successfully make homemade vodka, experiment with adding flavors and creating infused vodkas.

Step 1

Assemble your vodka still. A still should have a heat source, a boiling chamber, cooling pipes and a collection bottle. Thoroughly sterilize all equipment using bleach or a sanitizing solution made for baby bottles and similar items. Be sure to also sterilize your stock pot and any utensils you will use to make your mash.

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Step 2

Fill a large stock pot with 23 liters of tap water to make your homemade vodka. Add 2 tsp. of gypsum to this water and mix well. Test the pH and adjust, if needed, with citric acid. Add citric acid 1/4 tsp. at a time until it's reached a pH of 5.8 or 6.0. Place the pot on the stove, cover and allow to heat to 165 degrees F.

Step 3

Remove from heat and stir in 8 liters of flaked winter wheat. Stir for approximately five minutes, then every five minutes until the temperature is 152 degrees F. Add 1.5 liters of malt to this mixture. Leave for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture then may be left overnight to allow it to cool to fermentation temperatures.

Step 4

Use the hydrometer to check the originating gravity of the clear liquid on top of the mash once the mixture has thoroughly cooled. The measurement should be around 1.060-1.070. Transfer the mash to the fermenter and pour quickly from one fermenter to the other four to six times to aerate the wheat mash. Add a packet of vodka yeast and stir well. Allow the mixture to ferment for 72 to 84 hours.

Step 5

Strain the mash and place into the still. Heat the mash. The alcohol will evaporate and collect in the collection bottle. Be sure to filter through a carbon-based filter. Dilute at a ratio of 3 parts vodka to 4 parts water and bottle in sterilized bottles.

Warning

Consult books on distillation and a good brew shop. Poorly made liquor can pose health hazards. Be sure of the legalities of home distillation in your area before proceeding.

You’ll Love These Easy Recipes – Even If You Hate to Cook

Food Hacks

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December 7, 2020

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You’ll Love These Easy Recipes – Even If You Hate to Cook

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Whipping together a healthful dinner after a long workday and not opting for a quick bowl of cereal is sometimes a true test of personal willpower but it doesn't have to be. The next time you catch yourself staring blankly into an open fridge, stomach grumbling, wondering how to piece together a meal that's remotely nutritious, think about this list of easy go-to recipes—You'll love the ease of cooking an entire chicken and vegetable meal on one sheet pan, or baking a single casserole that will provide you with an entire week's worth of lunches. Now that's a no-brainer.

Image Credit: Jeran McConnel 2 of 31

Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks

For a meal that's easy, budget friendly, and highly adaptable, baked chicken drumsticks are a great option to keep in mind when hunger strikes. Prepare other sides while they cook, and save the bones for homemade bone broth.

Image Credit: Ashley Manila 3 of 31

"Hard-Boiled" Eggs in Muffin Pans

Never again will you have to worry about setting a pot of water on the stove—This recipe will teach you how to bake hard boiled eggs in a muffin pan that practically peel themselves.

Image Credit: Ashley Manila 4 of 31

Hashbrown Casserole

This comforting side is hearty enough to be served as a main and loaded with cheesy goodness. Our recipe only requires a few ingredients and no more than 15 minutes of prep time, plus you can store this in the freezer for a few weeks. Emergency casserole, it's a thing.

Image Credit: Julia Mueller 5 of 31

Sheet Pan Chicken with Broccoli, Potatoes and Red Onions

Just imagine feeding your entire family, with only one pan to clean at the end of dinner. Would we lie to you?

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com 6 of 31

Chicken and Spinach Skillet Pasta

When you've got a family to feed, hearty one-pot dishes can be your saving grace. This recipe, with juicy chicken, creamy sauce and fresh spinach, is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table.

Image Credit: Valerie Brunmeier 7 of 31

Prosciutto Carbonara Pasta

The prosciutto called for in this recipe doesn't take long to crisp, making it perfectly suited for those nights when you're juggling one too many things and still want to eat something delicious. Ready in 20 minutes or less!

Image Credit: Shaina Olmanson 8 of 31

Slow Cooker White Bean Beer and Ham Soup

This slow cooker soup of dreams is like a bonus round gift during holiday season: a warm soup that utilizes leftovers, takes little effort to prepare and even freezes well.

Image Credit: Jackie Dodd 9 of 31

Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

We all know baking potatoes in the oven takes forever. But do you realize that you can easily cook baked potatoes in an Instant Pot in about half the time, depending on their size? Just add toppings!

Image Credit: Jessica Kielman 10 of 31

Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast

A Mississippi Roast is usually cooked in a slow cooker and can take up to 6 hours before it's ready to eat. The Instant Pot strikes again with this spin on a classic recipe that cuts cook time in half.

Image Credit: Jessica Kielman 11 of 31

Freezer-Friendly Chicken Marinade Recipes

A whopping five healthy, flavor-packed chicken marinades that are freezer-friendly and will keep those weeknight pizza-dialing fingers in check.

Image Credit: Trisha Sprouse 12 of 31

Tex-Mex Chicken and Rice Skillet

Can anyone truly have enough of these wonderful, one-pot recipes at their disposal? We think not.

Image Credit: Valerie Brunmeier 13 of 31

Simple Shredded Chicken Tacos

We're hoping this recipe will inspire you to cook a double batch so that you can make Wednesdays "Pulled Chicken Enchilada Night" as well. Trust us, no one will complain.

Image Credit: Jackie Dodd 14 of 31

Easy Taco Casserole

This spin on a classic casserole is easy to make ahead of time or serve fresh out of the oven, plus you'll find tons of flavor and spiciness variations to suit your family's preferences.

Image Credit: Charity Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com 15 of 31

Make-Ahead Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

A warm casserole is the ultimate comfort food. But why buy store-bought casseroles that may be frozen, filled with artificial ingredients, or lacking in flavor, when you can make this tasty and straightforward version at home?

Image Credit: Ashley Manila 16 of 31

Asparagus Cooked in the Microwave

Don't be afraid to turn to your trusty microwave on busy evenings to cook up some fresh vegetables quickly.

Image Credit: mikdam/iStock/Getty Images 17 of 31

Italian Pasta Salad

Italian pasta salads are the universal stand-by for office potlucks, barbecues or a quick weeknight meal. Prep this recipe on Sunday so you have a fast, ready-to-eat, healthful one-dish meal during your work week.

Image Credit: Sweet Caroline\’s Cooking 18 of 31

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta

This recipe may sound fancy but it is incredibly easy to make. Oh, and it's all done in one pan in under 30 minutes.

Image Credit: Abbey Rodriguez 19 of 31

Pan-Seared Salmon

With this method of cooking salmon, you will end up with a perfectly seared piece of fish every single time.

Image Credit: Leigh Ann Chatagnier 20 of 31

One-Pot Whole Wheat Shrimp Pesto Pasta

To cut calories, cheese is omitted from the pesto in this recipe and kale added for extra nutrients. You may also switch out the whole grain pasta for a rice pasta to make this whole meal gluten-free, depending upon your family's tastebuds and dietary needs.

Image Credit: Leigh Ann Chatagnier 21 of 31

One Rotisserie Chicken = 3 Make-Ahead Salads

Did you know that all you need is one rotisserie chicken to make up to 10 lunches for a week of healthy eating? No, really!

Image Credit: Jeran McConnel 22 of 31

One-Pot Caprese Pasta

Pasta is the perfect answer for a pre-soccer practice meal, with plenty of fresh mozzarella and a bit of basil so that it harkens to your favorite summertime salad, the caprese, of course.

Image Credit: Shaina Olmanson 23 of 31

Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage with Sweet Potatoes, Onions and Apples

Roasting these flavors together on a single sheet pan and the juices will mix and mingle for the perfect blend of sweet and savory in every bite. Mmm.

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com 24 of 31

One-Pot Stroganoff

This one-pot update makes the classic eastern European dish even easier to create at home, with all the same creamy, tangy and satisfying flavors of the original.

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com 25 of 31

Sheet Pan Salmon with Dill, Butternut Squash and Sugar Snap Peas

For a colorful and healthful meal bursting with flavor, implement this simple cooking strategy in order to have each item ready at the same time and be one step closer to absolute efficiency.

Image Credit: Charity Curley Mathews, founder of Foodlets.com 26 of 31

One-Pot Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta

Use your favorite type of cheese in this recipe—Parmesan, Gruyere, or Gouda come highly recommended. Plus you may replace the butternut squash with any winter squash or even sweet potato for endless fall flavor combinations.

Image Credit: Julia Mueller 27 of 31

Quick and Easy Basil Pesto Linguine

For this dish, remember that the quality of your ingredients is crucial. Opt for the good stuff, like real Parmigiano Reggiano, which will make for pesto that's savory, nutty and nothing like the stuff you see for sale in a green tube.

Image Credit: Jennifer Farley 28 of 31

Cheesy Eggs Baked in a Muffin Tin

While these savory treats taste best fresh out of the oven (but what doesn't?), they're also ideal for busy families because you get a whopping 12 servings at once that you can easily refrigerate or even freeze to enjoy much later and pop in the microwave to eat on-the-go.

Image Credit: Jennifer Farley – SavorySimple.net 29 of 31

Sheet Pan Pancakes

After reading this recipe, you may never go back to making pancakes the traditional way ever again.

Image Credit: Leigh Ann Chatagnier 30 of 31

Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce

Truly nothing beats homemade pizza, especially the sauce. Follow this simple recipe and you'll never want to waste money on jarred pizza sauce again.

Image Credit: Jennifer Farley – SavorySimple.net $Applebee\'s spinach artichoke dip with warm bread$ 31 of 31

Applebee\’s Spinach Artichoke Dip

The creamy, dreamy way this dip clings onto bread or chips, the tang of the cheese and bite of artichokes make this gooey appetizer a crowd favorite—This version is just as easy as it is delicious, it'll be your new go-to.

Image Credit: Jackie Dodd

Celebrate Spring with 10 Refreshing Cocktails

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Lynette Arceneaux

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December 6, 2020

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Celebrate Spring with 10 Refreshing Cocktails

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Overview

The weather warms, the daylight hours lengthen and the rich smell of burning firewood is replaced with the sweet fragrance of flowers. Winter has finally ended and it's time to start reveling in the sunshine, so invite some friends and family to share in the celebration with a cheery brunch, barbecue or dinner party. The only thing missing is a cool drink to complement the milder temps. Several top mixologists stepped up to solve that little dilemma, sharing the recipes for some of their favorite warm-weather cocktails.

Image Credit: Santy Gibson/Demand Media 2 of 13

Sparkling Bocce Ball

"This recipe is a fantastic twist on the traditional mimosa," said Jordan Catapano, Los Angeles-based author of "This Girl Walks Into a Bar" and expert mixologist for BevMo! "Amaretto tastes delicious with orange juice and blends harmoniously with sparkling wine." The refreshing Sparkling Bocce Ball makes an excellent breakfast or brunch cocktail. Combine 2 ounces orange juice and 1 ounce Disaronno Originale in a white wine glass or Champagne flute and stir. Pour in 3 ounces of sparkling wine and serve.

Related: Jordan Catapano, This Girl Walks Into a Bar

Image Credit: Santy Gibson/Demand Media 3 of 13

Anejo Julep

For a modern take on the classic mint julep, try the Anejo Julep, courtesy of Jacques Bezuidenhout, bartender ambassador for San Francisco's Partida Tequila. In a julep cup, add 1 bar spoon each of peach syrup and simple syrup and 6 to 8 mint leaves. Muddle lightly to release mint oils. Add some crushed ice and 1 1/2 ounces Partida Anejo Tequila. Give it all a good stir. Add another 1 1/2 ounces of tequila; stir. Top off with more crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Related: Jacques Bezuidenhout, Master Mixologist

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Bezuidenhout\’s Sangrita

In a pitcher, add 2 ounces of Tabasco or Cholula Hot Sauce, 1 ounce lime juice, 7 ounces orange juice, 5 ounces grapefruit juice, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons freshly ground pepper, 15 ounces of tomato juice and a jalapeno, halved with seeds. Stir until salt and pepper dissolve. Allow mixture to sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Once the right heat level is reached, remove jalapeno halves. "Keep the sangrita refrigerated and enjoy accompanied with a neat pour of your favorite marque of Partida Tequila," Bezuidenhout said.

Related: Partida and Brand Ambassador Jacques Bezuidenhout Nominated for Wine Enthusiast Magazine's 2012 Wine Star Awards

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Pink Sparkler

The Pink Sparkler makes about a gallon of punch — ideal for a spring or summer gathering, said Ezra Pattek of The Bon Vivants in Miami. In a punch bowl, combine 2 bottles Passion XO Pink, 1 bottle sparkling wine, 12 ounces ginger liqueur, 16 ounces cranberry juice, 10 ounces lime juice and 4 ounces orange juice. Float orange and lime wheels in a punch bowl; add several scoops of ice. Serve cocktails in rocks glasses; garnish each with a float of sparkling wine, an orange slice and grated nutmeg.

Related: Ezra Pattek of The Bon Vivants

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Cilan-tini

"The savory Cilan-tini is a play on healthy cocktails with a little bit of kick," said Pablo Villareal, house mixologist at New York's Jazz at Kitano. Muddle together 4 cherry tomatoes, 1 dried red chili pepper, 8 to 10 cilantro leaves and a pinch of salt. Add 2 ounces of Grey Goose and 1/2 ounce each of lime juice, lemon juice and simple syrup. Shake over ice. Garnish with a cilantro leaf.

Related: Pablo Villareal, Jazz at Kitano

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Side Car Citrus

"The Side Car Citrus is a delicious balance of strength, sour and sweet," said mixologist Kellie Rowland of Six.One.Six in the JW Marriott Grand Rapids, Michigan. "The Patron Citronage adds some bite that the extra splash of orange juice balances out." Combine 1 1/2 ounces Christian Brother's Brandy, 1 ounce Patron Citronage, 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice and 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed orange juice. Shake with ice. Strain mixture into a martini glass with sugared rim, using an orange slice as garnish.

Related: Mixing It Up, featuring Kellie Rowland of JW Marriott Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Pom Williams

Pam Bushling, mixologist at Madrona Manor in Healdsburg, California, knows a great cocktail for temperate temperatures: the Pom Williams. "It's a delicate Champagne cocktail that's especially good at a warm-weather party." Combine 1 ounce pear liquor and 1/8 ounce Meyer lemon juice in a Champagne flute. Fill with sparkling pear cider and drop in 4 or 5 pomegranate seeds.

Related: Pam Bushling, Madrona Manor

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The Lovely

The Lovely is ideal for those who aren't fond of sweet cocktails, said Lauren Lathrop Williams, assistant general manager and lead cocktail engineer at San Diego's Jsix Restaurant and Lounge. Williams uses prosecco in The Lovely for its floral, fruity lightness, then adds 1/4 ounce of St. Germain, an elderflower liqueur, to play up the floral notes in the prosecco. "The ratio of prosecco to St. Germain can be adjusted to taste," she said.

Related: Lauren Lathrop Williams, Jsix

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Lavender 75

Along with sparkles, Bushling's Lavender 75 holds a touch of stoutness. Combine 1 1/2 ounces of lavender gin, 1/2 ounce of fresh lemon juice and 1/4 to 1/2 ounce of simple syrup in a Champagne flute. Give it a quick stir, then slowly fill the remainder of the flute with prosecco. Keep your gin in the freezer before mixing this drink, Bushling advised. "It will help tame the prosecco fizz and reduce the chances of overflowing."

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Citrus Sparkle: The Citrus Gin Pre-Mix

Because you make the Citrus Gin pre-mix ahead of time, serving the Citrus Sparkle — a cocktail from celebrity chef and mixologist Kathy Casey of Liquid Kitchen in Seattle — is a breeze. To prepare the pre-mix, combine 2 cups Martin Miller's Gin, 1/2 cup Cointreau, 1/2 cup simple syrup and 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice. Funnel the mixture into a pretty bottle and store in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to a week. This makes enough pre-mix for 10 to 12 Citrus Sparkle cocktails.

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Citrus Sparkle: Preparing the Cocktail

Squeeze and drop 1/4 of a clementine, tangerine or mandarin into a cocktail shaker. Add 3 ounces of the Citrus Gin pre-mix, fill with ice, cap and shake vigorously. Strain into a Champagne flute. Top with 1 1/2 ounces of chilled brut Champagne or sparkling wine and garnish with a small sprig of rosemary or an orange twist.

Related: Kathy Casey, Liquid Kitchen

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Cocktail Supplemental: Simple Syrup

Many cocktail recipes — including several here — call for simple syrup. You can find simple syrup at well-stocked liquor stores or in the bar section of grocery stores. Another option is to make your own simple syrup, Casey said. Combine 2 cups water with 2 cups sugar in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar, then remove from heat and allow to cool. This simple syrup will keep for up to one month in the refrigerator.

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Easy Cherry Cobbler Recipe

Sweet Treats

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December 5, 2020

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This cherry cobbler is a mouth-watering dessert that's perfect for the whole family during summer cherry season. This easy approach to cherry cobbler is great for people of all baking skills. The topping on a classic cherry cobbler requires a bit of skill, as one must make a biscuit by cutting in chilled butter and ice water. This goof-proof approach is much quicker and easier, yet results in the same flaky, buttery topping.

Easy Cherry Cobbler Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Video of the Day

Cherry Filling

Things You\’ll Need

8 cups cherries, pitted and halved (or 2 (16-oz.) packages frozen cherries)
2/3 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp corn starch
1/4 tsp sea salt

Step 1

Add the ingredients for the cherry filling (cherries, brown sugar, lemon juice, corn starch and sea salt) to a large pot.

Cook the cherries in a pot Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 2

Cover and heat over medium on the stove top. Bring mixture to a full boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until cherries have softened and much liquid has seeped out, about 5 to 8 minutes.

Cook cherries until softened and liquidy. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Cobbler Topping

Things You\’ll Need

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp sea salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Step 1

Add the dry ingredients (flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon and sea salt), to a large mixing bowl.

Add dry cobbler topping ingredients to a mixing bowl Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 2

Stir the dry ingredients together until well-combined.

Stir dry ingredients together. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 3

Pour melted butter into the mixing bowl over the dry ingredients.

Pour melted butter into the flour mixture. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 4

Stir mixture together well until a thick dough forms.

Stir until a thick dough forms. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Prepare the Cobbler

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400° F. Pour the cherry filling mixture into a large (13" x 9") casserole dish.

Transfer cherry filling to a large casserole dish Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 2

Evenly distribute the cobbler topping mixture on top of the cherry filling. You can form round biscuit shapes, or leave the topping rustic by crumbling the topping on in no specific pattern.

Add the cobbler topping to the casserole dish Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 3

Bake on the center rack of the pre-heated oven 30 to 40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is thick and bubbly.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes at 400 degrees F. Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Step 4

Serve cobbler in bowls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Serve cherry cobbler with vanilla ice cream Image Credit: Julia Mueller

8 Sweet and Easy Muffin Recipes

Sweet Treats

Katherine Kim

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December 5, 2020

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Ditch those dense, dry, store-bought muffins and save countless dollars by whipping them up in your own kitchen. It's not as difficult as you think! Gather your ingredients, and in about 30 minutes, you can be savoring anything from classics like blueberry muffins to fun, new flavors like pumpkin spice latte muffins with mascarpone cream.

Image Credit: Kathryn Phillips 2 of 9

Morning Glory Muffins

Carrot cake aficionados will find that these morning glory muffins are right up their alley. Cinnamon and brown sugar set up a cozy background for the flavors of shredded coconut, carrots, apples, raisins and walnuts.

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Chocolate Stout Chocolate Chip Muffins

Chocolate stout chocolate chip muffins are the grown-up version of your childhood favorite. The stout provides a wonderfully fluffy texture and adds richness and depth to the muffin's flavor. This is the perfect muffin for bakers who don't like the cloying sweetness common in many breakfast pastries.

Image Credit: Jackie Dodd 4 of 9

Reduced-Guilt Double Chocolate Banana Muffins

Unsure of what to do with those overripe bananas that have been sitting on your counter? Don't throw them away! Use them for these reduced-guilt double chocolate banana muffins instead. They're a delightfully moist and indulgent breakfast treat that derives most of its sweetness from the fruit.

Image Credit: Ashlae Warner 5 of 9

Pumpkin Spice Latte Muffins With Mascarpone Cream

Sink into all the comforts of autumn with this incredible recipe for pumpkin spice latte muffins with mascarpone cream. Pumpkin puree is warmly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice and cardamom and then slowly melded with freshly brewed coffee. A dollop of maple-sweetened mascarpone cream in the center and a sprinkle of pepitas finishes off this lovely breakfast goody.

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Strawberry Rhubarb Muffins

Strawberry rhubarb muffins employ the classic combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and tangy, tart rhubarb for a scrumptious morning meal. Finish these off with a sprinkling of turbinado sugar on top for a delicate crunch with each bite.

Image Credit: Jennifer Farley 7 of 9

Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins

Fill your home with the wonderful aroma of apple cinnamon streusel muffins baking in your oven. The time-honored pairing of apple and cinnamon is so simple, yet endlessly comforting and mouthwatering. The streusel topping provides a sweet crunch for a delectable finish.

Image Credit: Jennifer Farley 8 of 9

Blueberry Muffins

For breakfast or snacking, a classic blueberry muffin will never lead you astray. You will surely savor the moment you bite into one of these muffins, bursting with blueberries in a moist, fluffy and cake-like batter. For an extra-toothsome treat, finish these off with a homemade streusel topping.

Image Credit: Julia Mueller 9 of 9

Pumpkin Muffins

Nosh on pumpkin muffins all year long by using canned pumpkin puree. The pumpkin ensures that these muffins stay super moist. This recipe is one you can modify to meet dietary concerns and still get results, so experiment with ingredients such as applesauce, buttermilk and almond milk.

Image Credit: Julia Mueller

Watch the Video

Things You\’ll Need

Step 1: Soak the Wood Chips

Step 2: Add the Wood Chips to a Baking Sheet

Step 3: Add a Wire Rack

Step 4: Poke Holes in the Baking Pan

Step 5: Add Meat to the Grill Pan

Step 6: Cover with Lots of Aluminum Foil

Step 7: Bake

Step 8: Remove from Oven

Step 9: Sauce (if Desired) and Serve

1. Cauliflower Pizza Crust

2. Vegetarian Enchilada

3. Spaghetti Squash Pasta

4. Kale Fried Rice

5. Veggie Ramen

6. Flourless Fudge Brownies

7. Low-Carb Breakfast Burrito

8. Morning Glory Muffins

9. Omega-3 Omelete

10. Old-Fashioned Carrot Cake

11. Broccoli Rice Casserole

12. Zucchini Bread

13. Moroccan Cauliflower With Couscous

14. Kale and Sausage Galette

15. Spinach Quiche

Things You\’ll Need

Step 1: Cut the Lobster

Step 2: Boil

Step 3: Remove the Meat

Step 4: Make the Filling

Step 5: Toast the Rolls

Tip

Step 6: Fill and Serve

Tip

Things You\’ll Need

Make the Binder Paper

Step 1: Roll the Fondant

Step 2: Attach a Rectangular Cookie

Step 3: Draw the Lines

Make the Rulers

Step 1: Roll Yellow Fondant

Step 2: Attach a Vanilla Wafer

Step 3: Draw the Measurement Marks

Make the Pencils

Step 1: Cut Pieces of Pirouettes

Step 2: Wrap Pirouettes in Fondant

Step 3: Attach the Pointed End

Step 4: Attach the Eraser

Step 5: Finish with Black Details

Make the Books

Step 1: Cut Vanilla Wafers

Step 2: Wrap Fondant Book Cover Around Wafer

Tip

Step 3: Mark the Spine

Make the Apple

Step 1: Roll Red Fondant

Step 2: Attach Fondant Leaf

Assemble the Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes

Step 2: Frost the Cupcakes

Step 3: Add Sprinkles

Step 4: Position the Toppers

Things You\’ll Need

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Warning

Cherry Filling

Things You\’ll Need

Step 1

Step 2

Cobbler Topping

Things You\’ll Need

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4