tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20339040378744744012024-02-01T23:12:55.604-08:00Erica's PantryErica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-26167789181783538562011-01-27T13:18:00.000-08:002011-03-10T13:33:17.516-08:00Mexican Tortilla Bake<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFmTo36dU4drlhSo5LRDcBDpzJwVqTTpnO1S0f6U7K_oetaMK5qsyrLjxnphocJHrdDDDXSh5QpjtmRIvgGowYDWb0jOKbNHA98Tz30_a-4fBhyphenhyphenb7IHthLx56XNwguqM2LC4VfX01IVI/s1600/IMG_0600.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFmTo36dU4drlhSo5LRDcBDpzJwVqTTpnO1S0f6U7K_oetaMK5qsyrLjxnphocJHrdDDDXSh5QpjtmRIvgGowYDWb0jOKbNHA98Tz30_a-4fBhyphenhyphenb7IHthLx56XNwguqM2LC4VfX01IVI/s400/IMG_0600.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566982822367532178" border="0" /></a>Hi! It's great to be back!<br /><br />Life is more under control than it was a few months ago, so here I am! However, with two small boys, it's never <span style="font-style: italic;">completely</span> under control, which is why lately I have been putting a lot of effort into figuring how how to simplify meal times.<br /><br />The first step: utilizing my freezer. I have NEVER been good at this, but now I recognize the necessity—and the convenience! I've been making meals and putting half in the freezer. Lasagna, homemade (and healthier) baked mac n' cheese, roll dough, cinnamon rolls (precooked), cookie dough, shredded chicken for tacos/burritos... You get the idea!<br /><br />This is a pretty simple family meal that can also be stuck into the freezer. To save space (rather than freezing it all made up in, say, an 8x8 disposable pan) I just froze the chicken mixture, and I can assemble it with the tortillas and cheese later.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Mexican Tortilla Bake</span><br />Modified slightly from Rachael Ray's <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/mexican-lasagna-recipe/index.html">Mexican Lasagna</a>, which has 5 stars and 700+ reviews on foodnetwork.com<br /><br />3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil<br />2 pounds ground chicken<br />2 tablespoons chili powder<br />2 teaspoons ground cumin<br />1/2 red onion, chopped<br />1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained<br />1 (14-oz) can fire roasted tomatoes<br />1 cup frozen corn kernels<br />Salt<br />8 (8 inch) spinach tortillas (I've just used regular)<br />2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or shredded pepper jack<br />3 scallions, chopped <!--concordance-end--><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span>Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. <p>Preheat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil. Add chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, and red onion. Brown the meat, 5 minutes. Add fire roasted tomatoes. Add black beans and corn. Heat the mixture through, 2 to 3 minutes then season with salt, to your taste.</p> <p>Coat a shallow baking dish with remaining extra-virgin olive oil, about 1 tablespoon oil. Cut the tortillas in eights (pizza-slicing style) to make them easy to layer with. Build <a onclick="'s_objectID=" href="http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/lasagna/index.html" class="crosslink" debug="569 575">lasagna</a> in layers of meat and beans, then tortillas, then cheese. Repeat: meat, tortilla, cheese again. Bake lasagna 12 to 15 minutes until cheese is brown and bubbly. Top with the scallions (or whatever you want—obviously, I added more) and serve.</p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_YAi-QnldmOFlHBDvPNXCOrNzQV93tlDTBExmMX9p8QYigIrYiiX-zeyu6mFcluTZuQJguSCXZmgeTdHHYsiV4P87Ws5gEipOyMPjuXKWOBoKSBG2KNbeYMCOdke4JerCamJGIxFIrY/s1600/IMG_0603.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_YAi-QnldmOFlHBDvPNXCOrNzQV93tlDTBExmMX9p8QYigIrYiiX-zeyu6mFcluTZuQJguSCXZmgeTdHHYsiV4P87Ws5gEipOyMPjuXKWOBoKSBG2KNbeYMCOdke4JerCamJGIxFIrY/s400/IMG_0603.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566982833982979298" border="0" /></a>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-63518577701566810562010-07-27T20:54:00.000-07:002010-07-27T21:07:19.647-07:00Gorganzola Cream SauceDid I tell you about the world's greatest white sauce? Ryan took me to <a href="http://www.cafeprobonorestaurant.com/">Cafe Pro Bono</a> in Palo Alto a few weeks ago (we got a babysitter and everything!), and we had THE most divine dish of pasta. No kidding. Divine.<br /><br />The dish is called Susan's Downfall, and their menu describes it as "cheese and herb ravioli with gorgonzola and toasted almonds." The cream sauce was so delicate, with this amazing depth of flavor...I can't even describe it!<br /><br />So of course I decided to try a gorganzola cream sauce at home. (After all, I'm almost back to my pre-baby weight. I deserve it, right? haha) I found <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/neelys/grilled-flank-steak-with-gorgonzola-cream-sauce-recipe/index.html">a well reviewed recipe </a>online and gave it a whirl. I'm sorry to say somethings are just better left to the pros. I have no idea how that Cafe Pro Bono makes their sauce sing, but mine just didn't live up. It was still good; don't get me wrong. Just not the same.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfrpe9aAePbpS-z1-P8sePYAaf_Kt0cn8FqwMOyLfXfT8WfwJNa-7v-Axv6Gt1YZNusxd9Z-uE0UedW11rORxy5OWcGUTWIiR_RGMVL3zT4eSLR6DcytCrPXexyV-kUG8MAs_OsInUf8/s1600/IMG_6637.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfrpe9aAePbpS-z1-P8sePYAaf_Kt0cn8FqwMOyLfXfT8WfwJNa-7v-Axv6Gt1YZNusxd9Z-uE0UedW11rORxy5OWcGUTWIiR_RGMVL3zT4eSLR6DcytCrPXexyV-kUG8MAs_OsInUf8/s400/IMG_6637.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498800845090130610" border="0" /></a><br />So there you have it. A food saga. This was probably of absolutely no worth to you, unless you live in the Bay Area, in which case, GET YOURSELF OVER TO CAFE PRO BONO!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">**As a side note, no, I don't usually saturate our pasta with sauce like the above picture. :) I just reallllly wanted to make sure you could see it in the photo.I think I was a little overzealous.<br /></span>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-20391333027601725282010-07-05T10:51:00.000-07:002010-07-05T10:57:36.476-07:00Strawberry ShortcakeI've been cooking up some good food lately but failing in the photo-taking department. The food gets devoured before I have a chance! But please do hop on over to <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/">Smitten Kitchen</a> and try out these<a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2009/05/strawberry-shortcakes/"> strawberry shortcakes</a>. DIVINE! I had my doubts when I was making them if they'd really be any better than Bisquick, but I was wrong. Buttery, flaky deliciousness.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0R0X1PoqfE07r6EpdZKt9-VPBd9YdaXeB33yFUeWBHFDUUoZACOjCuDYQ3W3Y2UVJztyvGhzJ_LEWu0DD4BjSsHUjW4avUollk1wGpdngIJ3o88EzLWwqOSYwSKmhe8s-eltiux2z0fo/s1600/3552476345_988c0573c1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0R0X1PoqfE07r6EpdZKt9-VPBd9YdaXeB33yFUeWBHFDUUoZACOjCuDYQ3W3Y2UVJztyvGhzJ_LEWu0DD4BjSsHUjW4avUollk1wGpdngIJ3o88EzLWwqOSYwSKmhe8s-eltiux2z0fo/s400/3552476345_988c0573c1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490482133403591138" border="0" /></a><br />Photo from Smitten Kitchen (Will sub with my own as soon as I manage to take a picture of these babies!)<br /><br />By the way, I prefer my whipped cream with sugar and vanilla added in during the whipping. I think her recipe whipped it plain.<br /><br />Happy day-after-Independence Day!Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-19732237986386873802010-06-04T20:05:00.000-07:002010-06-05T06:44:39.509-07:00Whole Wheat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip CookiesI love these cookies because they're a bit lighter thanks to the applesauce that replaces some butter, and they've got some fiber thanks to the whole wheat flower and oats. BUT they don't taste like it!!! You're just going to have to trust me until you try them. But if you can't take my word for it, check <a href="http://sisterscafe.blogspot.com/2010/01/who-couldnt-use-another-delicious.html">HERE</a> for a second opinion. :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3wC5vmrmKRaEDiyRXFKVB1kPNZw7q-4R6cPwC-e0DynD8M4qia896_ADmlfJg7SHvw2XP3B9GglJpTB8oxF9M0L07W11Gm9fFV2W6ri3WXrNtNlsQjFmOsDEzLnaDDbLdFHS6eiDf-KQ/s1600/IMG_6236.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3wC5vmrmKRaEDiyRXFKVB1kPNZw7q-4R6cPwC-e0DynD8M4qia896_ADmlfJg7SHvw2XP3B9GglJpTB8oxF9M0L07W11Gm9fFV2W6ri3WXrNtNlsQjFmOsDEzLnaDDbLdFHS6eiDf-KQ/s400/IMG_6236.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479122060750455234" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Whole Wheat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies </span><br />Adapted from the Sisters' Cafe<br /><br />1 ¼ cups brown sugar<br />1 ¼ cups sugar<br />1 cup butter<br />1/4 cup applesauce<br />3 eggs<br />1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />1 ¼ teaspoon baking soda<br />1 ¼ teaspoon baking powder<br />1 ¼ teaspoon salt<br />2 ½ cups wheat flour<br />2 ½ cups oats<br />2 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips<br /><br />Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients and then chocolate chips. Scoop rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes. *Makes 3-4 dozen.<br /><br />**I love oatmeal cookies with butterscotch chips!! (I made some of both, because the hubs likes chocolate chips better.)Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-56481277294657058052010-05-29T19:09:00.000-07:002010-05-29T19:56:12.110-07:00Roasted CauliflowerHi all! Hope you're enjoying your memorial day weekend! Ryan, the hubby, gets two days off for summer holidays (an attempt by his firm to compensate for the madness that is busy season), so we're trying to savor every moment. Few things give me more joy than watching my toddler have fun! I wish you could have seen him go streaking across the park in just his swimming trunks when the water features turned on. So stinkin' cute!<br /><br />Anyway, back to the real point of this blog... I am infatuated with roasted cauliflower! Jane, from the fabulous <a href="http://thisweekfordinner.com/">This Week for Dinner</a>, shared the idea, and I've been addicted ever since. It's healthy, easy, and seriously so good! The next time I feel like eating pasta, I'm just going to make this instead. :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTj-Fizp8WciZW_J9hGtpcS3DLzGmsyNAhpJ5k5YJPrpFxi_QqNXGVsFvDqDKsovV2Q2yc3uruV1qpmj6GXYotb5eiSK5gtIR7kw7zL6KTL4nTPk9yy-f0HwOQ0hVoeK3kWzwsCQtDzco/s1600/IMG_6257.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTj-Fizp8WciZW_J9hGtpcS3DLzGmsyNAhpJ5k5YJPrpFxi_QqNXGVsFvDqDKsovV2Q2yc3uruV1qpmj6GXYotb5eiSK5gtIR7kw7zL6KTL4nTPk9yy-f0HwOQ0hVoeK3kWzwsCQtDzco/s400/IMG_6257.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476881051057657106" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://thisweekfordinner.com/2010/04/20/simple-side-dishes-roasted-cauliflower/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Roasted Cauliflower </span></a><br />1 head of cauliflower, broken up<br />a few tablespoons of olive oil<br />salt and pepper (fresh ground is best)<br />2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese<br /><br />Preheat to 400 degrees.<br /><br />Place cauliflower on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil; add salt and pepper. Toss cauliflower to lightly coat with the oil and seasoning.<br /><br />Roast for about 25 minutes. Stir once or twice during cooking. Check for doneness with a sharp knife, to the point where you can pierce the cauliflower fairly easily but not to the point of mushiness. Remove from oven and toss with grated parmesan cheese.<br /><br />*Today was the first time I added a few pieces of broccoli. It roasted better than I was expecting!<br /><br /><br />...And why not add these photos while I'm at it??<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhG78hJROM1YPFaZxr4C6b8_fL8N4YvDXvker93CHxZSGLKVlEmHrSG5L1Fhlh2gvEdZKHyD79qxaVzpwh56rI6pNDCm4rlG8n_1k4LAzQKE1gLF0khDdfYS4pVulZvIFvMPcOXMqI-0/s1600/IMG_6264.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhG78hJROM1YPFaZxr4C6b8_fL8N4YvDXvker93CHxZSGLKVlEmHrSG5L1Fhlh2gvEdZKHyD79qxaVzpwh56rI6pNDCm4rlG8n_1k4LAzQKE1gLF0khDdfYS4pVulZvIFvMPcOXMqI-0/s400/IMG_6264.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476883454253638306" border="0" /></a>Is it weird to be proud of your child for making off with not one, but two of those people's balls? haha They were actually really nice and let him "play" with them to his heart's content.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXuHcywF8O7oSv85ihxCYk07qv7aJnmwYCn1JyZ1pEVMYn_fCEMHcvX8Str5e0vF5adRbATlGwVoQQ6MOzl0CAHUiI_fFV71St7Me3GZnMe-BA6nK5e-5w7-QDhqAic2EU_bas6tlp9JY/s1600/IMG_6261.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXuHcywF8O7oSv85ihxCYk07qv7aJnmwYCn1JyZ1pEVMYn_fCEMHcvX8Str5e0vF5adRbATlGwVoQQ6MOzl0CAHUiI_fFV71St7Me3GZnMe-BA6nK5e-5w7-QDhqAic2EU_bas6tlp9JY/s400/IMG_6261.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476883443044887778" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJQi-NWhcisWspm-imDY_H_CPg1cfvP6dxAmSohBO7LDpgdoS459sXa5fWZZbOC2PvEnoMwTa7a5WLAMpNF2MgyQ2AVy84EAFgxidOdeBN-EqmRo9wIiKnmmT5WUXwX1HAuxWmvJcBWA/s1600/IMG_6276.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJQi-NWhcisWspm-imDY_H_CPg1cfvP6dxAmSohBO7LDpgdoS459sXa5fWZZbOC2PvEnoMwTa7a5WLAMpNF2MgyQ2AVy84EAFgxidOdeBN-EqmRo9wIiKnmmT5WUXwX1HAuxWmvJcBWA/s400/IMG_6276.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476891354197712930" border="0" /></a>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-26802264918180114272010-05-24T18:54:00.000-07:002010-05-24T20:10:49.173-07:00Red Wine VinaigretteCan you believe it—another salad! I know, you're shocked. If only losing weight was as easy as posting four salads in a row. :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5dIcJiXp6zYmRAAESVPUzqtbHUunJnepQUokLJdOOm0-NxwYRiR0uwG9615lYG83r8Gql8lzSpX5WUvaFbj6vKjPMByr1vyQ9fRasB7sRqj3omdX6Rsz9mLav_AYTjACeUbwhyphenhyphenSDCus/s1600/IMG_6189.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5dIcJiXp6zYmRAAESVPUzqtbHUunJnepQUokLJdOOm0-NxwYRiR0uwG9615lYG83r8Gql8lzSpX5WUvaFbj6vKjPMByr1vyQ9fRasB7sRqj3omdX6Rsz9mLav_AYTjACeUbwhyphenhyphenSDCus/s400/IMG_6189.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475030615446247410" border="0" /></a><br />This is a delicious vinaigrette, definitely worth whipping up ASAP. I rarely buy bottled dressings because I love the control of making my own; I can know <span style="font-style: italic;">exactly</span> what goes into it. I think this vinaigrette would pair well with tons of salad variations. For a fabulous salad using this dressing, check out it's <a href="http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/05/gourmet-green-salad.html">original posting</a> on my virtual friend Melanie's blog. (I'm so cool. I have virtual friends. :) The salad pictured above is simply some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion rings, and feta cheese. I loved it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Red Wine Vinaigrette</span><br />2/3 cup red wine vinegar<br />1 1/2 cups sugar<br />1/4 cup red onions, finely grated<br />2 tablespoons Dijon mustard<br />2 teaspoons salt<br />ground pepper to taste<br />2 cups canola oil <p>Blend all ingredients except oil in a blender. BWhile processing, slowly add the canola oil and blend well. Transfer dressing to a jar. Can be refrigerated for 1-2 weeks. (Melanie found it gets a little thick if it is too cold, so she recommends sticking it in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to help thin it out before using if it has been in the refrigerator for several days).</p>But like I said, do check out the <a href="http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/05/gourmet-green-salad.html">original post</a> because those ingredients—bacon, pears, parmesan, etc.—make one fabulous salad. Trust me.Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-43639195554584851592010-05-17T19:07:00.000-07:002010-05-17T21:35:54.566-07:00Chinse Chicken SaladTold you the salads would keep coming... :) Three in a row!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjepCwT6u5HXnS8AEn1FNXzaRJwjI6bj32RMnDT9lRB1WFrp_E6ld4Td-DYE9hgnT4JC3TrgINKEkbrr4ZzRUNR1omxr54idEZa6XDFo3smANa4PxNBwJio_8o6YPMgMBCi9a5KRkDgExs/s1600/IMG_6140.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjepCwT6u5HXnS8AEn1FNXzaRJwjI6bj32RMnDT9lRB1WFrp_E6ld4Td-DYE9hgnT4JC3TrgINKEkbrr4ZzRUNR1omxr54idEZa6XDFo3smANa4PxNBwJio_8o6YPMgMBCi9a5KRkDgExs/s400/IMG_6140.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472456832813204562" border="0" /></a><br />You've probably had a variation of this salad, but this particular recipe is the best, in my opinion. I originally got the recipe in BYU's cooking class, but I've adapted it to perfectly suit our family's tastes. It's tangy and crunchy and pretty to look at. :) Btw, do I cook anything that doesn't involve cilantro? Definitely my all-time favorite ingredient.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dressing:</span><br />1/2 cup canola oil<br />1 Tablespoon sesame oil<br />6 Tablespoons vinegar<br />1/4 cup sugar<br />1 packet of chicken flavored Ramen seasoning<br />1/4 teaspoon salt<br />1/2 teaspoon pepper<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Salad:</span><br />1 bunch of green onions, sliced<br />half a head of cabbage, sliced (I use both purple and green for the color)<br />1 small bunch of cilantro (or half of a larger bunch - to taste)<br />1/3 cup slivered almonds<br />1 Tablespoon sesame seeds<br />1 package Ramen noodles<br />1 can mandarin oranges, drained (not pictured)<br />1 boneless skinless chicken breast, cooked and sliced<br /><br />Combine the dressing ingredients by whisking vigorously. Refrigerate.<br /><br />Break up the Ramen noodles into small pieces and place on a baking sheet. Add sesame seeds and almonds. Broil under high heat for 2-3 minutes, or until golden. (Watch carefully to avoid burning.)<br /><br />Prep vegetables and assemble the salad.<br /><br />Erica's Notes<br /><ul><li>The chicken can be prepared any way you like. When I'm grilling chicken, I like to grill extra to have on hand for meals like this. It makes this salad super easy to throw together if you already have a grilled chicken breast in the fridge, ready to slice and place on top of the salad. Or you could skip the chicken altogether if you're serving this salad as a side dish, rather than a main dish. </li><li>I skip toasting the almonds because almonds are healthiest raw.<br /></li><li>Did you know cabbage is totally a power vegetable? This is a great way to get your family to eat it! I recently read <a href="http://commonsensehealth.com/Diet-and-Nutrition/Top_10_Healthiest_Vegetables_List.shtml">this article</a> and have been trying to pack more (and different) vegetables into our diet.</li></ul>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-46787656852427726272010-05-11T18:46:00.000-07:002010-05-25T19:42:01.169-07:00Chipotle Chicken Taco SaladMy reference to Chipotle in this post has nothing to do with the restaurant this time, just the chiles. :) I love southwestern salads and am always on the lookout for something new. The chipotle chiles in adobo sauce give this salad a deep, smokey flavor, as well as a spicy kick. The avocado and light sour cream make it creamy and also balance out the heat from the chiles. Our family loved it, even the toddler! (I'm conditioning him to like spicy foods like his dad and I do, and so far it seems to be working!)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisK68WbVuJ_LxvfhbCF4pgtDCt6ZABIE1XhDlgNsBzUJaeYTMtQZHkQwOUnuzs3ngV5eo4pFl1Xvu1JVyWpsd63eqyUUheLQZSUTyAFzgGtKx2WOH6zVFWp1xPe_HO20KKl1bdsE450oU/s1600/IMG_6120.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisK68WbVuJ_LxvfhbCF4pgtDCt6ZABIE1XhDlgNsBzUJaeYTMtQZHkQwOUnuzs3ngV5eo4pFl1Xvu1JVyWpsd63eqyUUheLQZSUTyAFzgGtKx2WOH6zVFWp1xPe_HO20KKl1bdsE450oU/s400/IMG_6120.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470196748977845730" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">I dress our salads pretty lightly. To get a better idea of what it probably <span style="font-style: italic;">should</span> look like, check out <a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1215905">Cooking Light's photo</a> of it.</span><br /><span class="vrsmbk"><span class="allCaps"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Chipotle Chicken Taco Salad</span><br />From Cooking Light<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Combine the following for the dressing:</span></span></span><br />1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro<br />2/3 cup light sour cream<br />1 tablespoon minced chipotle chiles, canned in adobo sauce<br />1 teaspoon ground cumin<br />1 teaspoon chili powder<br />4 teaspoons fresh lime juice<br />1/4 teaspoon salt<span class="vrsmbk"><span class="allCaps"><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Combine for the salad:</span></span></span><br />4 cups romaine lettuce<br />2 cups sliced chicken breasts (about 2 breasts)<br />1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or regular tomatoes, diced)<br />1/2 cup diced peeled avocado<br />1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion<br />1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained<br />1 can corn, rinsed and drained (or defrosted frozen corn)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I seasoned the chicken with cajun seasoning and salt & fresh-ground pepper. Then I grilled it. Mmmm! </span><br /><br /><br />By the way, you may be seeing a lot of salads around these parts while I work off my baby weight. (MUST. KEEP. SWEET. TOOTH. AT. BAY.)Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-5289906167873021692010-05-08T19:24:00.000-07:002010-05-25T19:41:44.949-07:00Lime Fajita BowlWhenever we go to Chipotle, we get the chicken burrito bowl. It's loaded with vegetables and fresh salsa and guacamole, and we skip the fat that's in the tortilla. (Not that I'm above eating a good, thick tortilla every now and then, because I'm not!) Today's meal was born from the burrito bowl concept, and I could not love it any more. I've said it before, but I'll say it again: It's ridiculous how happy a good meal makes me. I'm pretty sure this one will make you happy too. :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnN-7VlIuH6RDrGCKa6E1pDHQXMVzGimniQdZZpFQpYVgBw5DVc32TNCK1LokGb7yIG4VsYGH2X6cIuT476z6zvsRM3p0Nc9e65yMODYBJFmdNZrlMWKSu2UEZwU0pGp_tX_4sqammFHk/s1600/IMG_6087.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnN-7VlIuH6RDrGCKa6E1pDHQXMVzGimniQdZZpFQpYVgBw5DVc32TNCK1LokGb7yIG4VsYGH2X6cIuT476z6zvsRM3p0Nc9e65yMODYBJFmdNZrlMWKSu2UEZwU0pGp_tX_4sqammFHk/s400/IMG_6087.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469091238096138786" border="0" /></a><br />As usual, my proportions aren't huge, so you may want to double it if you're feeding more than, say, three adults.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marinate the following for at least 1 hour:</span><br />2 boneless skinless chicken breasts<br />juice and zest of 2 limes<br />1/4 cup canola oil<br />half of a packet of Italian seasoning<br />1 onion, cut into rings<br />1 green bell pepper, sliced<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Salad ingredients:</span><br />3 leaves of romaine lettuce, sliced into small pieces<br />1-2 tomatoes, diced<br />half a bunch of cilantro<br />1 small onion, diced<br />1 avocado (to make a simple guacolole)<br />1 lime<br />half a can of black beans, rinsed<br /><ul><li>After marinating, grill the chicken and vegatables. (We have a grill attachment that is more like a skillet. If you don't have something similar, you may have to saute the veggies over the oven, but that's okay too!) Once cooked, let the chicken cool for a few minutes, and then slice.</li></ul><ul><li>Assemble salad ingredients in a serving bowl. Layer on sliced chickn and grilled onions & peppers. Warm up black beans in microwave; add to salad. Toss.</li></ul><ul><li>Make a simple guacomole by smashing avocado and adding lime juice and salt and pepper. (Or use store-bought guacolmole.) Spoon guacomole over the top. (Add sour cream or grated cheese if you wish.) Squeeze one lime over the top of the salad.<br /></li></ul><br />This is a super healthy meal that is absolutely packed with flavor—the smokiness of the grill and the brightness of the lime juice. If you try it, please let me know what you think!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gcMpAaPSd3PGHGnR9pjfduu2gZk6_TCYDKg2Ec98j5nCULGUxm8WfaZ5u_phvjurJcqWAU0_SYCe3PtiWhn6xuP4EfAV_mrvnQWz3_l76oLX1XnTqaB1cIbnCFq-BMWMgq0pfJ88Ma8/s1600/IMG_6086.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gcMpAaPSd3PGHGnR9pjfduu2gZk6_TCYDKg2Ec98j5nCULGUxm8WfaZ5u_phvjurJcqWAU0_SYCe3PtiWhn6xuP4EfAV_mrvnQWz3_l76oLX1XnTqaB1cIbnCFq-BMWMgq0pfJ88Ma8/s400/IMG_6086.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469097111884469842" border="0" /></a>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-9343066863561475662010-04-20T13:49:00.000-07:002010-04-20T14:16:51.801-07:00Thick and Chewy Chocolate Chip BarsHi all! Things are going well here. I'm happy to report that <span style="font-style: italic;">I am loving</span> having two kids. Baby C is already two months old and remains a very content baby. Toddler T has more energy than I know what to do with, but I am loving this stage. He's 20 months old and makes us laugh all the time with the things he does and the words he picks up. Aren't they handsome?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3wTybLS7M-cWYsiJjDP-XiX6iu4t7pwcxbeLE6h6dLV8y8hEon_ZUncVSVPxi_RQEi9-xr6NILNQuwgyMmEWCaoXhOrC_jsVaQzfUVMMPoIQrOCAQIA0RMr9Iq9taP00zGlCS2eOVKA/s1600/IMG_5934.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3wTybLS7M-cWYsiJjDP-XiX6iu4t7pwcxbeLE6h6dLV8y8hEon_ZUncVSVPxi_RQEi9-xr6NILNQuwgyMmEWCaoXhOrC_jsVaQzfUVMMPoIQrOCAQIA0RMr9Iq9taP00zGlCS2eOVKA/s400/IMG_5934.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462327222862811010" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zV2UPOGGpRJTzxh21Ugt4qBQvuGzcIQudYEIVkmIMdKbntMTYQ-1jTkui0axi9K2MMUwRmswavZl7EJJ_mB9oKhyNf6BI1n7XD-iKOcnTxBXtpVrfcYJpJSxd5CdJ75RRp6wIC2zY1U/s1600/IMG_5918.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zV2UPOGGpRJTzxh21Ugt4qBQvuGzcIQudYEIVkmIMdKbntMTYQ-1jTkui0axi9K2MMUwRmswavZl7EJJ_mB9oKhyNf6BI1n7XD-iKOcnTxBXtpVrfcYJpJSxd5CdJ75RRp6wIC2zY1U/s400/IMG_5918.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462327214889730674" border="0" /></a><br />Now on to my second favorite subject . . . Dessert! This is a new favorite of mine. Confession: I made it twice in one week. My only excuse is that both times I gave some of it away.<br /><br />My husband can be picky about his sweets. I have a serious sweet tooth that requires a lot of curbing, but sweets don't tempt him like they do me. (Lucky man.) But this cookie bar did him in. They are just like their name describes—thick and chewy, with a slightly crispy exterior. I was only able to snap a couple of photos before my camera died, so check out more photos here at <a href="http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2010/02/thick-and-chewy-chocolate-chip-bars.html">Mel's Kitchen Cafe</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBy44JMvar_-Zm1nMo30bKvFtpUBWA7RpwCWaaZ9mDTHz3na5BcHHECIUgxAaSXa_69yyeUYlrg9NrmlM4zruqNt2TaSzS8xjmh3woY1WLOQ8GUFyQbH1JA_SLpc7-VJtHVcRldnG49w/s1600/IMG_5981.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBy44JMvar_-Zm1nMo30bKvFtpUBWA7RpwCWaaZ9mDTHz3na5BcHHECIUgxAaSXa_69yyeUYlrg9NrmlM4zruqNt2TaSzS8xjmh3woY1WLOQ8GUFyQbH1JA_SLpc7-VJtHVcRldnG49w/s400/IMG_5981.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462327235862891522" border="0" /></a>Don't let this unassuming cookie bar fool you. Seriously, so yummy!<br /><br /><p style="font-weight: bold;">Thick and Chewy Chocolate Chip Bars</p><p>From <a href="http://www.melskitchencafe.com/">Mel's Kitchen Cafe </a>(Thank you again, Melanie!)<br /></p><p>2 1/8 cups (10 1/2 ounces) all purpose flour<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />12 tablespoons butter (1 1/2 sticks), melted and cooled slightly<br />1 cup (7 ounces) light brown sugar<br />1/2 (3 1/2 ounces) cup granulated sugar<br />1 large egg<br />1 large egg yolk<br />2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />2 cups chocolate chips (use your preference of semisweet, bittersweet, milk, white, peanut butter…the options are endless!)</p> <p>Preheat the oven to 325. Adjust the oven rack to lower-middle position. Line a 9X13-inch baking pan with foil, letting the excess hang over the edges of the pan by about 1 inch so you can grab those edges and pull the brownies from the pan after they have baked. Spray the foil-lined pan with nonstick cooking spray.</p> <p>Mix the flour, salt, and baking soda together in medium bowl; set aside. Whisk the melted butter and sugars in a large bowl until combined. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla and mix well. Using a rubber spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined; do not overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips and turn the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the spatula.</p> <p>Bake until the top of the bars is light golden brown, slightly firm to the touch, and edges start pulling away from sides of pan, 24-28 minutes. (It took 31-32 minutes in my oven) Cool on a wire rack to room temperature. Remove the bars from the pan by lifting the foil overhang and transfer them to a cutting board. Cut into 2-inch squares and serve.</p>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-3075912089447798972010-03-03T12:49:00.000-08:002010-03-03T12:52:20.500-08:00Baby C<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiVX-vs1diSnq1CXSWg9yTdGccW4YWz1j1L5h759vyEX_esUJZaw3GfyxkWMSbqZBhnFNRGoMXoNfr7HcDrYunhyphenhyphenqVleiOcfh-ZXPBbObwx-AtckZo-jEQaiKtsC9Fi9AZyF_Vw5H_rm8/s1600-h/IMG_5598.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiVX-vs1diSnq1CXSWg9yTdGccW4YWz1j1L5h759vyEX_esUJZaw3GfyxkWMSbqZBhnFNRGoMXoNfr7HcDrYunhyphenhyphenqVleiOcfh-ZXPBbObwx-AtckZo-jEQaiKtsC9Fi9AZyF_Vw5H_rm8/s400/IMG_5598.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444513114362598866" border="0" /></a><br />I dropped off the chart there for a bit...I've been a little busy welcoming this handsome guy into the world! He's almost two weeks old, he's sleeping better than I had dared hope at this age, and he is just a generally easygoing boy!<br /><br />Hope all is well with each of you! I'll be back soon - I can't wait to get back in the kitchen!Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-13568682696151340802010-02-09T13:17:00.000-08:002010-02-09T19:08:08.738-08:00Vanilla Frozen YogurtThis is a no-fail recipe for frozen yogurt that is sure to please. It's really creamy, just slightly tart, and would make a great base for some creative mix-ins or toppings.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGLXZ3X7ZcaJP0BUqok7zggOnNEDNF-tOxRubcJRTl8k7kFL747EcjXCQ7Z6tTf26Wl6XL8zWZilVBj_rMedeNjpCdEW08j6nrt1qFxvWHAXB9NG4fEqyaaHgDiiNDDAc7SA-P2AqIzo/s1600-h/IMG_5502.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGLXZ3X7ZcaJP0BUqok7zggOnNEDNF-tOxRubcJRTl8k7kFL747EcjXCQ7Z6tTf26Wl6XL8zWZilVBj_rMedeNjpCdEW08j6nrt1qFxvWHAXB9NG4fEqyaaHgDiiNDDAc7SA-P2AqIzo/s400/IMG_5502.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436356144066415986" border="0" /></a><br />I got this recipe from 101 Cookbooks, and she says it rivals Pinkberry's frozen yogurt. I can't say since I've never had it, but I will say that I loved the recipe. <a href="http://www.101cookbooks.com/archives/a-frozen-yogurt-recipe-to-rival-pinkberrys-recipe.html">Hop over here for details.</a>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-6227940851943111582010-01-29T13:14:00.000-08:002010-02-02T19:59:56.379-08:00I Love This LasagnaIt's painful to put this photo up, but without any natural light, this was the best I could do. Oh well! You all know what lasagna looks like anyways!<br /><br />I was DELIGHTED with how this recipe turned out. Seriously, it was kind of pathetic how happy it made me. But there's little worse in my book than spending an afternoon making a rather elaborate dinner only to have it flop. Thank goodness, that was not the case yesterday!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHw9Yl23H_YX19UJ5tRWB7rTl7AaYEaWot4y62Sz_v_HfS1xsmDc4L6G4f9GNhb4FawSg40JZH5-ejqm9KUfhvsW5menbj0-_MDC9wjegvr2HsXXw4unH-9_gr2hiBBRLfVmnG0mEGt3s/s1600-h/IMG_5488.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHw9Yl23H_YX19UJ5tRWB7rTl7AaYEaWot4y62Sz_v_HfS1xsmDc4L6G4f9GNhb4FawSg40JZH5-ejqm9KUfhvsW5menbj0-_MDC9wjegvr2HsXXw4unH-9_gr2hiBBRLfVmnG0mEGt3s/s400/IMG_5488.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433480615248866482" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I chose this recipe because it earned 5 stars from 272 reviewers on foodnetwork.com. Thank you, Ina Garden, for a restaurant-quality lasagna minus the joy (read: hassle) of trying to entertain the toddler while at said restaurant. :)<br /><br />Turkey Lasagna<br />2 tablespoons olive oil<br />1 cup chopped yellow onion (1 onion)<br />2 garlic cloves, minced<br />1 1/2 pounds sweet Italian turkey sausage, casings removed<br />1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes in tomato puree<br />1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste<br />1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, divided<br />1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves<br />2 teaspoons kosher salt<br />3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper<br />1/2 pound lasagna noodles<br />15 ounces ricotta cheese<br />3 to 4 ounces creamy goat cheese, crumbled<br />1 cup grated Parmesan, plus 1/4 cup for sprinkling<br />1 extra-large egg, lightly beaten<br />1 pound fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced<br /><br /><p class="instructions"> Preheat to 400 degrees.</p> <p class="instructions">Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes over medium-low heat, until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up, for 8 to 10 minutes or until no longer pink. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of the parsley, the basil, 1 1/2 teaspoons of the salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Simmer, uncovered, over medium-low heat, for 15 to 20 minutes, until thickened.</p> <p class="instructions">Meanwhile, fill a large bowl with the hottest tap water. Add the noodles and allow them to sit in the water for 20 minutes. Drain. (Or skip this and use no boil noodles!!)<br /></p> <p class="instructions">In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, goat cheese, 1 cup of Parmesan, the egg, the remaining 2 tablespoons of parsley, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Set aside.</p> <p class="instructions">Ladle 1/3 of the sauce into a 9x12 baking dish, spreading the sauce over the bottom of the dish. Then add the layers as follows: half the pasta, half the mozzarella, half the ricotta, and one 1/3 of the sauce. Add the rest of the pasta, mozzarella, ricotta, and finally, sauce. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of Parmesan. Bake for 30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling.</p><br />My alterations:<br /><ul><li>Do yourself a favor and use no-boil noodles. It makes lasagna so much easier!<br /></li><li>Despite the name, Turkey Lasanga, mine didn't actually have any turkey in it... I had ground beef and spicy Italian sausage on hand, so that's what I used. I liked the slight kick the spicy sausage gave it, and I also added a 1/4 red pepper flakes.<br /></li><li>1 1/2 pounds would be plenty of meat for this dish. I reduced to a pound and was happy I did.<br /></li><li>I used shredded mozzarella instead of fresh (convenience). No regrets. </li><li>Though the recipe is meant for a 9x13 pan, I divided mine into two disposable 8x8 pans, one of which I froze for when the baby comes. (Yay!)<br /></li></ul>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-30613269590692508462010-01-25T13:38:00.000-08:002010-02-02T20:00:08.785-08:00Cherry BarI'm shocked I've never posted this before, as it is one of my go-to desserts. It's not exactly New Year's resolution friendly...well, unless your resolution is to eat well and live it up! But it is sweet, rich, and slightly tart; it's perfect for bringing to an event because it feeds (and pleases) a crowd; and it can be made ahead of time. If you're really lucky, you may even be able to bring a piece home afterward!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0p6RhuXNA25BBPTOhOv1p8N4pKQEPZ5uqzdlEacf6io5znk6JyCzf0D92TXlXDhdaunc_Ezpdv8Jrjvpj5jxb1gVqhnSzmg98gEnd3xgffiUDWbXhfx0poLYqv0UxYbcaVNzdwT0tTYM/s1600-h/IMG_5434.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0p6RhuXNA25BBPTOhOv1p8N4pKQEPZ5uqzdlEacf6io5znk6JyCzf0D92TXlXDhdaunc_Ezpdv8Jrjvpj5jxb1gVqhnSzmg98gEnd3xgffiUDWbXhfx0poLYqv0UxYbcaVNzdwT0tTYM/s400/IMG_5434.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430795258027972258" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cherry Bar</span><br />1 1/2 cups butter, softened<br />2 1/2 cups sugar<br />1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla<br />6 eggs<br />4 1/2 cups flour<br />2 teaspoons baking powder<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br /><br />2 cans cherry pie filling<br />1 teaspoon almond extract.<br /><br />Cream butter and sugar. Stir in vanilla and eggs. Stir in dry ingredients. Spread a thin layer of batter in the bottom of a baking sheet. Combine cherry pie filling and almond extract. Layer the cherry mixture over the batter. Top with remaining batter and spread as evenly as possible. Bake at 375 for about 20 minutes, or until <span style="font-style: italic;">lightly</span> gold on top.<br /><br />Allow to cool in baking sheet. In the meantime combine the following icing ingredients:<br /><br />2 Tablespoons melted butter<br />3 cups powdered sugar<br />1 teaspoon vanilla<br />6 Tablespoons milk<br /><br />Poor the icing over the cherry bar once it has cooled. Slice and serve!Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-6818456665985939662010-01-08T11:53:00.000-08:002010-02-02T20:00:21.425-08:00Cheesy Baked FaralleOne of my New Year's resolutions is to be a more efficient cook. With the second baby on the way, my meals are going to have to get streamlined if I'm going to have a chance of getting dinner on the table. I don't know how all you moms with big families do it! Hopefully I'll get the hang of it with practice.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGRR-iaFBr0Qw55Dt02dY7264chtnDtd72HssKpx4J5cX7XDWlRDhaq4Xu0XJPgZV3Q2t5sq4aT1O4lMTuhWwdlLKRY643T8wTmfCoGrdWiAlo8pBytPPrV_2csiFj6KrDmwUeMXCXJY/s1600-h/IMG_5355.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGRR-iaFBr0Qw55Dt02dY7264chtnDtd72HssKpx4J5cX7XDWlRDhaq4Xu0XJPgZV3Q2t5sq4aT1O4lMTuhWwdlLKRY643T8wTmfCoGrdWiAlo8pBytPPrV_2csiFj6KrDmwUeMXCXJY/s400/IMG_5355.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424464004518815010" border="0" /></a><br />So I was happy to see how few steps are in this recipe by the Food Network's Giada. Plus, it's delicious—a lightly creamy red sauce, thanks to the addition of mascarpone cheese, with gooey smoked mozzarella on top. It was perfect for taking to a friend who just had a baby because I could make it during T's naptime, stick it in the fridge, and take it to her cold so that she can pop it in the oven whenever she feels like it. Easy breezy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cheesy Baked Farfalle</span><br />Adapted from Giada's <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/cheesy-baked-tortellini-recipe/index.html">Cheesy Baked Tortellini </a><br /><br />2 cups marinara sauce<br />1/3 cup mascarpone cheese<br />1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves<br />2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves<br />1/2 pound farfalle pasta<br />1 cup mozarella cheese, grated<br />1 cup smoked mozarella cheese, grated<br /><br /><!--concordance-end--> <p class="instructions"> Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly oil an 8 x 8 by baking dish. </p> <p class="instructions">Cook the farfalle in a large pot of water for about 7-8 minutes. (You want to leave it slightly undercooked because it will bake in the oven.) Drain well. Whisk together the sauce, mascarpone cheese, parsley and thyme. Add the pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top the mixture with the smoked mozzarella and regular mozarella.<br /></p><p class="instructions">Cover with foil and bake for about 10 minutes. Remove the foil and let cook until the cheese bubbles and is slightly golden, about another 10 minutes.<br /></p>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-13284440249872416962009-11-19T19:30:00.000-08:002009-11-19T19:44:11.282-08:00Good News for Pizza Lovers!The other day, a friend told me she had successfully baked her homemade pizza on parchment paper—which entirely eliminated the oh-so-awkward transfer of the pizza from the peel to the stone. Of course, I couldn't resist trying it immediately, so I did, and (drumroll please) she was right!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8J-0fe8_vdOymerhZSJNZjIzOdaBUD72rpOqb5r_CKlY0eAQO55oaUUX4xJhSHo4lmIckWBRvzJnzFo-C-WOanpamwl44mKlKCyLDEeMDyWOpY2OyQpxEZyFO_iYsN0dlo5_3_ehHC1o/s1600/IMG_4339.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8J-0fe8_vdOymerhZSJNZjIzOdaBUD72rpOqb5r_CKlY0eAQO55oaUUX4xJhSHo4lmIckWBRvzJnzFo-C-WOanpamwl44mKlKCyLDEeMDyWOpY2OyQpxEZyFO_iYsN0dlo5_3_ehHC1o/s320/IMG_4339.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406026088721096354" border="0" /></a><br />Preheat oven to 425. Simply spread some parchment paper over your pizza peel, sprinkle cornmeal, roll out the dough, and add toppings. Roughly trim the edges of the paper to about an inch from the crust, creating a circle instead of a square of parchment paper underneath the dough. Then relish the ease with which you slide the pizza onto the preheated stone!<br /><br />The only disadvantage is that you can't crank the oven up as high, because parchment paper isn't meant to be heated above 425. But especially if you place the stone on the bottom rack, you should have no problem getting a nice, crispy crust nonetheless.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Just so no one sues me if the parchment paper <span style="font-style: italic;">somehow</span> ignites in your oven, please keep an eye on it the first time you try this. Don't throw the pizza in the oven and leave for 40 minutes. (But really, who would do that??) </span>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-29135250132760729142009-11-09T15:08:00.000-08:002010-05-17T18:42:14.152-07:00Jamba Juice's Blackberry Bliss?I can't claim this is exact, but I don't think you'll miss the resemblance in flavor when you try it. The Blackberry Bliss is my husband's favorite at Jamba right now, so we had to give it a whirl at home. Plus, what's better is that it's WAY healthier! Thanks to the spinach and ground flax (which you won't notice!), you won't even feel guilty slurping this baby down!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckxDjcsEua2HHDzFHlNqMeBB-1TLwf_3MAKGkbFPsCcqwHfiQpO58iH53tT-Rj5xZMkQEM6lqfFKhJNNofzKzlvIwzbux_iPxaco3oeEQQ9VgoWhHBMR5wYbFxh9PQ8d-8jBbUE4RwNw/s1600-h/IMG_5235.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckxDjcsEua2HHDzFHlNqMeBB-1TLwf_3MAKGkbFPsCcqwHfiQpO58iH53tT-Rj5xZMkQEM6lqfFKhJNNofzKzlvIwzbux_iPxaco3oeEQQ9VgoWhHBMR5wYbFxh9PQ8d-8jBbUE4RwNw/s320/IMG_5235.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402246779989552098" border="0" /></a><br />First, puree the following in your blender:<br />2 cups spinach<br />1/2 cup water<br /><br />Add the following, and begin pulsing.<br />1 1/2 cups frozen strawberries<br />1/2 cups frozen mixed berries<br />6 blackberries<br />1/2 cup pineapple<br />1/4 cup yogurt<br />1/4 cup sugar (plus a couple of Tablespoons, depending on how sweet you like it.)<br />3 Tablespoons ground flax<br /><br />Lastly, add water and blend to get the smoothie to the right consistency (I'll say about 3/4 cup, added gradually. But that will depend on whether all of your fruit was frozen or not.)<br /><br />Let me know what you think!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Maybe this will help negate all the nutella I've eaten lately...</span>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-2241896574704461182009-10-18T19:30:00.000-07:002009-10-18T20:40:04.650-07:00Hot ChocolateHappy Sunday! I made sugar cookies tonight. Someone please remind me next time I want to make them to just wait until my kids are old enough to enjoy it. The millions of steps with a clingy, grabby toddler is just not worth it! I was amazed at how many cookies that kid managed to stick his hands in, even when I thought they were out of reach! (He also somehow grabbed my cell phone and threw it squarely into a freshly frosted cookie...but hey, that's just life with a toddler!)<br /><br />So, as chilly weather is slowly but surely coming my way, I am elated the hot chocolate season is beginning! My new obsession is perfecting the art of GREAT hot chocolate. We used to frequent Hatch's Family Chocolates in Salt Lake City and the South Bend Chocolate Cafe when we lived in South Bend, Indiana. Their hot chocolates taste like straight-up melted European chocolate. (None of this Hershey's stuff.) Mmmmmm!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8l7Rgx6tVCem_1TUlAiNfUdAnvHYgE3o1g9I_xAiRAzqZvgOzxd6dcpXxfpKmSCJqrXY1kLTl7FPnlFoC1lPDjrKQDn-d-ZCrjae8X6-nza1vXZsu32SXS5FX5b8M4FREFhLG-bF3F4c/s1600-h/HotChocolate.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8l7Rgx6tVCem_1TUlAiNfUdAnvHYgE3o1g9I_xAiRAzqZvgOzxd6dcpXxfpKmSCJqrXY1kLTl7FPnlFoC1lPDjrKQDn-d-ZCrjae8X6-nza1vXZsu32SXS5FX5b8M4FREFhLG-bF3F4c/s400/HotChocolate.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394134206311112050" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Thank you, Google Images, for the photo. It was too dark to take a photo of my concoction last night. </span><br /><br />So far, this is what I've learned about making fabulous homemade hot cocoa.<br /><ol><li>Start with a chunk of GREAT chocolate. We just bought a few ounces of Gittuird __ at our beloved Milk Pail in Palo Alto. (Amazingly, the chocolate cost $1.45) Cut the chocolate into small pieces.<br /></li><li>Put milk and chocolate slivers in a small saucepan—about 1 ounce of chocolate per cup of milk. Add a couple of T. sugar, depending on your sweetness preference.<br /></li><li>Heat milk until it is hot but not bubbling. Stir frequently.<br /></li><li>Toward the end, add a bunch of mini marshmallows and allow them to melt partially so the cocoa gets good and frothy!<br /></li><li>Serve with a cinnamon stick for stirring. Enjoy!<br /></li></ol><br />And as a side note... It's a boy!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbi1AvMZ5Av6a3AMVuur95sBGQsA7E9VJ1jaNkNW2UiS1bnA425QZV_zy4ZY0ie5SVn8DIOm2rOr-kaTet6HxT69jaMVlXJRF1021xXORo6rz2igpJ2VG7dKLc30cXCMNc1bWClnjw-Q/s1600-h/IMG_5152.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbi1AvMZ5Av6a3AMVuur95sBGQsA7E9VJ1jaNkNW2UiS1bnA425QZV_zy4ZY0ie5SVn8DIOm2rOr-kaTet6HxT69jaMVlXJRF1021xXORo6rz2igpJ2VG7dKLc30cXCMNc1bWClnjw-Q/s400/IMG_5152.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394133855245476946" border="0" /></a>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-2448394325587089502009-09-29T14:53:00.001-07:002010-02-02T20:00:48.868-08:00Homemade Cinnamon Applesauce...with an announcement on the side!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4zbfF9TY-RvjeDXopuiHej-js680OZgUW5Ez_AaakNeGHCCKdWpyTYklcEFDTDC7Revjqcj0tJpgKkR7Ww51wUPPAe_7drdA77BH_nTMLYDpMcot0HvwR5_gF8WS_Z7k4WWG_8UaA0I/s1600-h/IMG_4944.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4zbfF9TY-RvjeDXopuiHej-js680OZgUW5Ez_AaakNeGHCCKdWpyTYklcEFDTDC7Revjqcj0tJpgKkR7Ww51wUPPAe_7drdA77BH_nTMLYDpMcot0HvwR5_gF8WS_Z7k4WWG_8UaA0I/s400/IMG_4944.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387012481874122674" border="0" /></a><br />Hi everyone! I can't tell you how much I've missed frequently updating this blog...But there's not a lot I can do because nothing I can make ever sounds good and what I do make usually doesn't turn out. If you don't already know, I'm expecting again! We are excited!<br /><br />My pregnancy has been nothing to complain about by any means, but I so miss COOKING! I scour food blogs for meals that sound good, but rarely does something strike my fancy. Interestingly, all food <span style="font-style: italic;">outside</span> of this house sounds delicious... As long as I don't have to make it or clean it up, I'm happy! Maybe I should turn this blog into a restaurant review blog for the rest of my pregnancy...<br /><br />BUT, fall is my favorite season for cooking and baking, so maybe my tastes buds will start being my friends again soon. :)<br /><br />Even with all that said, this homemade applesauce hit the spot!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVPJvnnpd5AK0wly__REs3q84G99x7BwNVlKErmppKZrkWX21V0xq2E2DmHquhh6BevL-E1iljMzIpirMXvK7RsasuP6hQlXap1zB5OxAd1l_w9U1AWAYZa3tQiSX8QYnRA23jDTdyV8/s1600-h/IMG_5110.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVPJvnnpd5AK0wly__REs3q84G99x7BwNVlKErmppKZrkWX21V0xq2E2DmHquhh6BevL-E1iljMzIpirMXvK7RsasuP6hQlXap1zB5OxAd1l_w9U1AWAYZa3tQiSX8QYnRA23jDTdyV8/s400/IMG_5110.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387012496470584578" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cinnamon Applesauce </span><br />7 apples, peeled, cored and diced (I used 5 Mackintosh and 2 Honeycrisp)<br />1 cup (or less) water<br />1/4 cup sugar<br />1/2 tsp. cinnamon<br /><br />Combine all ingredients, and let simmer on medium heat, covered, for about 15 minutes, or until apples are tender. Stir about every five minutes. Mash with a whisk when finished cooking, and enjoy!<br /><br />A few tips:<br /><ul><li>The sweeter the apples, the less sugar you have to use. Talk to your produce man!</li><li>I suggest starting with less than a cup of water and seeing if you need more as the cooking goes on. Who wants watery applesauce?? </li><li>As you can see from the pic, I like my applesauce to taste and look homemade, which is why I leave some rustic chunks in. Mash to your desired consistency. :)<br /></li></ul>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-74458127624280742582009-09-15T18:45:00.000-07:002010-05-17T18:42:34.893-07:00Kitchen Tip: Baked Chimichangas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaWJr23Ee1PbkYu7K1k9BlNbzwFAIGfcFL4zdYPGGX_zcMemmvyXE-teQT0yUPojJY3Z_MOKvoM6EabZL-qhyphenhyphenhYsSkr2-clJTZu5B51YC4ZDA0vhiYMemAxXBZamEkS_lzoHhwROTUyzQ/s1600-h/IMG_5073.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaWJr23Ee1PbkYu7K1k9BlNbzwFAIGfcFL4zdYPGGX_zcMemmvyXE-teQT0yUPojJY3Z_MOKvoM6EabZL-qhyphenhyphenhYsSkr2-clJTZu5B51YC4ZDA0vhiYMemAxXBZamEkS_lzoHhwROTUyzQ/s400/IMG_5073.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381875842262183234" border="0" /></a><br />New and healthier cooking method! Baked Chimichangas! It's a simple but pretty sweet idea. Why didn't I do this earlier?? Simply wrap the chimis like you normally do, lay them on the baking sheet, and brush lightly with canola oil. Then bake at 375 for about 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.<br /><br />Check out that photo—Can you even tell it's not fried?<br /><br />Cheers for lower cholesterol!Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-65202925962984373842009-09-01T18:23:00.000-07:002009-09-15T21:43:33.291-07:00Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Arugula<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmGm0VYkVyj1BufBZWUsqAG8FrtWe0j3TqCESn8HwTHMoK2jXjpW0vjnGWGwkeQbkPJRRLBVOzTexrrT44vpiQlMhTYETEwdrYoCN_qKQSVUFgMsM637AMp33gzH3hC_Ts_6WmKN1BLA/s1600-h/IMG_4929.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYmGm0VYkVyj1BufBZWUsqAG8FrtWe0j3TqCESn8HwTHMoK2jXjpW0vjnGWGwkeQbkPJRRLBVOzTexrrT44vpiQlMhTYETEwdrYoCN_qKQSVUFgMsM637AMp33gzH3hC_Ts_6WmKN1BLA/s400/IMG_4929.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376674998832691586" border="0" /></a><br />While I'm on a tomato/basil kick, I might as well go all the way and share another favorite. This is a simple, light meal you can make the next time you get home from a farmers' market. Click on over to this <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/22/health/nutrition/22recipehealth.html?_r=2">New York Times recipe. </a>Try using Ronzoni Smart Taste pasta for extra fiber—it's available all over the place. Thanks for stopping by!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">PS. I forgot the arugula today, which is why isn't not in the photo. :) </span>Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-32008007435674468702009-08-21T19:10:00.000-07:002009-09-15T21:43:05.527-07:00Balsamic BruschettaThe best thing I've bought all summer was a $2.99 basil plant at Trader Joe's. Just looking at it on the patio makes me happy. We've had some fabulous margarita pizza and bruschetta since the basil plant joined the family.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sCKvBAHbDHLhoP_DWPvridGOStMZJOtgaObZ7pw_BTP4oUt_S4ZqPcRhgzdsTSvaq0GUI4I8A8MowiAA0zaPvWCOWgu7RQoVsHSWD_hQgJbqjfUVRh8-eRTA7gVOwHBveYmB5nZYIkw/s1600-h/IMG_4860.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9sCKvBAHbDHLhoP_DWPvridGOStMZJOtgaObZ7pw_BTP4oUt_S4ZqPcRhgzdsTSvaq0GUI4I8A8MowiAA0zaPvWCOWgu7RQoVsHSWD_hQgJbqjfUVRh8-eRTA7gVOwHBveYmB5nZYIkw/s400/IMG_4860.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372606820287864866" border="0" /></a><br />Don't you just love bruschetta?? Basil, tomatoes, and garlic on <span style="font-style: italic;">french bread</span>—what's not to love? This is a great, simple recipe that is a snap to make yet tastes so fresh and flavorful that you won't stop eating until the bowl is clean.<br /><br />Balsamic Bruschetta<br />from allrecipes.com<br /><br />8 roma (plum) tomatoes, diced<br />1/3 cup chopped fresh basil<br />1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese<br />2 cloves garlic, minced<br />1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar<br />1 teaspoon olive oil<br />1/4 teaspoon kosher salt<br />1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper<br />1 loaf French bread, toasted and sliced<br /><br />Combine everything, toast the bread, and enjoy! Rub the toasted bread with a cut clove of garlic and drizzle with a little olive oil for some extra flavor. If you let the bruschetta sit in the fridge for an hour or two, it will taste even better.Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-87048623674234263762009-08-17T20:21:00.000-07:002009-08-17T20:35:29.708-07:00Chili Frito PieA <span style="font-style: italic;">great</span> way to eat chili.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0w_t6neXEVIMfVPV6NJP3qNnS9MWkE7oaU-wFQ8H44SJUxWuC0E9RzcLbGtkmQFrpD26N4tBcv-ws0jLJJ5Z4lCc7SbSnJzHUSqUxO6iIOis1Y6-NfI-wOr45G83Z_kTbPBlGkLyExAc/s1600-h/IMG_4846.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0w_t6neXEVIMfVPV6NJP3qNnS9MWkE7oaU-wFQ8H44SJUxWuC0E9RzcLbGtkmQFrpD26N4tBcv-ws0jLJJ5Z4lCc7SbSnJzHUSqUxO6iIOis1Y6-NfI-wOr45G83Z_kTbPBlGkLyExAc/s400/IMG_4846.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371139432212901730" border="0" /></a><br />Did anyone else grow up on chili frito pie? Seriously, I'm curious! I haven't made this in a long time, but tonight Ryan was working late and I felt like cuddling up with something warm and homey. Few things take me back to my growing up years like chili frito pie.<br /><br />My mom makes a super-simple, weeknight chili that only involves 5 ingredients: browned hamburger, diced white onion, a can of ranch style beans, a small can of tomato sauce, and a tablespoon or so of chili powder. The secret ingredient is the ranch style beans—This simple can is full of spices (chili peppers, garlic salt, onion powder, paprika, etc.), meaning it does all the work for you.<br /><br />But even if you never try this oh-so-easy chili, definitely be sure to make the pie—Layer fritos, chili, cheese, and onions, and enjoy!Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-23969531847768335472009-08-06T20:32:00.000-07:002009-08-07T14:02:07.993-07:00Birthday Cake Goodness<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEior65L8YES0G4ZlYIhW1jW0UTC4-vd_HOFDCuHwwWFlQcrbL6xv0aqCJPE4uozvcN0IfUpLmH7POZ6-H91QoV_8PTSMRbgYCzNoN7xMQbhJfCW_Sw0KY68xWShrB8EIQ8YQ0huektIl2o/s1600-h/IMG_4802.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEior65L8YES0G4ZlYIhW1jW0UTC4-vd_HOFDCuHwwWFlQcrbL6xv0aqCJPE4uozvcN0IfUpLmH7POZ6-H91QoV_8PTSMRbgYCzNoN7xMQbhJfCW_Sw0KY68xWShrB8EIQ8YQ0huektIl2o/s400/IMG_4802.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367059759555545346" border="0" /></a><br />I apologize for my absence. It's summer—everyone deserves some vacation! I'll post soon about my son's birthday cake. Thanks for visiting!Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2033904037874474401.post-12788649232948837392009-07-23T13:07:00.000-07:002010-05-17T18:43:12.914-07:00Caesar Wraps with Homemade CroutonsIs it Friday yet? Well, we're getting close!<br /><br />Caesar wraps are my new favorite lunch item, and homemade croutons take them from not-at-all-homemade to semi-homemade. :) I can't believe this was my first time making croutons. I had so much fun!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZMX_0j5SOg2VY4zfejei_7yYQoIygqu5SInr0C1pwx6yyc6nnxrCWCxwQjdlIHUNPZQCkLlsU5kty6AGmPgnXW9yOfFEo0vSlrxX7LAB8QV5aL3z_341cIeB1P9uqwWNi-_yUKpXh2w/s1600-h/IMG_4730.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 322px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZMX_0j5SOg2VY4zfejei_7yYQoIygqu5SInr0C1pwx6yyc6nnxrCWCxwQjdlIHUNPZQCkLlsU5kty6AGmPgnXW9yOfFEo0vSlrxX7LAB8QV5aL3z_341cIeB1P9uqwWNi-_yUKpXh2w/s400/IMG_4730.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361757265615386962" border="0" /></a><br />There are a hundred ways to make them, but I made these with half of a big loaf of ciabatta bread, cut into cubs; 4 Tablespoons butter; 2 (small) cloves of garlic; and a dash of fresh rosemary and dried oregano. I also happened to have a couple leftover basil leaves, so I sliced those and threw them in as well. Bake on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Stir the croutons halfway through the baking time. Voila!<br /><br />May I also recommend <a href="http://www.girardsdressings.com/">Girard's </a>Light Caesar dressing. As I'm sure you know, Caesar dressing can have more than 20 grams of fat in 2 Tablsespoons, so beware! Girard's Light Caesar has 8 grams of fat and is still delicious.<br /><br />I hope you find this little lunch idea helpful. (Lunch is the hardest meal for me—Am I alone??) Anyway, as always, thanks for visiting!Erica Layne | Let Why Leadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02557933241524782369noreply@blogger.com4