Recipes

Spicy Honey-Brushed Chicken Thighs

2012-01-19T18:07:48Z

Healthy Recipe of the Month

Spicy Honey-Brushed Chicken Thighs

Superfast Chicken Supper! Skinless, boneless thighs cook quickly and are more flavorful than white meat, so they need fewer ingredients. Serve with garlic-roasted potato wedges and a salad or broccolini "baby broccoli".

Yields 4 servings (serving size: 2 chicken thighs)

Ingredients

2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper
8 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
Cooking spray
6 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons cider vinegar

Preparation

Preheat broiler. Combine first 6 ingredients in a large bowl. Add chicken to bowl; toss to coat. Place chicken on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray. Broil chicken 5 minutes on each side.

Combine honey and vinegar in a small bowl, stirring well. Remove chicken from oven; brush 1/4 cup honey mixture on chicken. Broil 1 minute. Remove chicken from oven and turn over. Brush chicken with remaining honey mixture. Broil 1 additional minute or until chicken is done.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 321 (31% from fat)
Fat: 11g (sat 3g,mono 4.1g,poly 2.5g)
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrate: 27.9g
Fiber: 0.6g
Cholesterol: 99mg
Iron: 2.1mg
Sodium: 676mg
Calcium: 21mg

Hot Sausage and Black-eye Pea Jambalaya

2012-01-16T17:02:21Z

I hope that I can remember it all. I actually 'made up' the recipe !! Maggie

HOT SAUSAGE BLACK-EYE PEAS JAMBALAYA

This can be doubled or tripled as needed.

One box Zatarin's New Orleans styled jambalaya mix

Approximately 1/2 to 1 pound of diced hot sausage links

Two cans of drained black eye peas

1/2 bag of frozen mixed seasoning (combination of

chopped onions, red and green bell peppers, celery,

and chopped parsley)

1 cup of uncooked Minute Rice

1 stick oleo/margarine - or butter

1 'box' or 2 cans of Swanson Chicken Broth

1 small can tomato sauce with garlic and peppers, if available.

(If not found, add Tony's Original Seasoning to your 'HOT' level).

Salt and pepper to taste

Saute' the mixed seasonings in the oleo in a large skillet or

a large soup pot with cover, or a 2 1/2 microwave casserole

(which I prefer).

Follow directions on Zatarin's box after dumping the entire

box contents and everything else (using additional

water only after you've used all the chicken broth)

Cook in microwave the amount of time on the Zatarin's box.

Ready to serve after sitting for around 5-10 minutes.

Maggie's Fruit Salad

2011-12-12T18:20:59Z

Maggie's Fruit Salad

1 large can Del Monte fruit cocktail

1 can Dole pineapple CHUNKS

1 jar cherries - no stem

Drain these three (I save the 'juice' to make Jell-O) and dump into BIG bowl (I use my large stainless one)

Add:

1 can Peach pie filling (I use Comstock) as is (do not try to drain).

1 box thawed box frozen sliced strawberries (dump as is - don't try to drain).

1 bag pecan pieces (I usually use at least a 12 oz. one)

1/2 bag white miniature marshmallows (if you need the salad to be

extended, put in the whole bag)

Recipe for Happiness

2011-11-22T13:28:32Z

"Being Thankful"

Thanksgiving is closely approaching. Everyone is thanking the Lord for His blessings, thanking each other, and most are thanking Him for the 'spread' of food on our Thanksgiving table. I wonder why we don't do that EVERY day? After all, the Lord is with us always and provides for our needs every day, so having a thankful heart continuously seems only right.

Matthew 28:20
" Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you.

And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

I hope that you and yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving, filled with fun
and love for each other, and yes, gratitude over-flowing. Maggie

__________________________________________________________________________

Being Thankful in All Circumstances
by Betty Miller

One of the most important keys that will make it possible for us to walk in kingdom living is our expression of praise. The Lord's prayer begins in an attitude of worship and praise, "Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth" (Luke 11:2). Praise is the will of God, and heaven overflows with it.

"And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great. And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready" (Revelation 19:5-7).

Since the presence of praise is voiced continually in heaven, our voices should also be lifted up in praise to our Lord. In 1Thessalonians 5:16-18 we are told to, "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." The Lord tells us here that we are to have an attitude of joy, thanksgiving and prayer at all times, no matter what the conditions or circumstances are that surround us.

This verse does not mean that we are to thank God for bad things and tragedies that come our way. It means that we are to remain joyful no matter what is happening in our lives because we have the Lord, and in Him we shall overcome no matter what the devil is trying to do to us. The Lord does not want us to thank Him for the bad things that happen to us because He did not send them. He is not the author of evil. We are not to become bitter over life's circumstances, but rather to continue to rejoice in the Lord. It is the will of God for us to rejoice no matter what comes. It is not the will of God to receive evil things as from Him. It is an insult to God to thank Him for accidents, sickness, tragedy, etc. He does not send those things to us, the devil does. We are told to resist the devil, and submit to God. (James 4:7, "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.") We are to love and rejoice in the Lord in spite of what the devil tries to do to us.

One of Satan's favorite schemes is to send something bad into someone's life and blame it on God. If he can get people to believe it is from the Lord, he has an easier time convincing them of his next lie, that God has failed them and deserted them. He follows this up with a further lie, "Why go on serving a God who does these kinds of things to you?" Satan's real target is to destroy our faith in God. He just attacks different areas to get at different people.

Our prayers should be in an attitude of praise even in the midst of our trials. We should lift our voices and praise the Lord like this, "Father, I praise You and love You, and no matter what the devil is trying to do to me. I know that You shall bring me through victoriously! Show me what I need to do, Lord. Show me the door that I have opened to the enemy. I resist him in the name of Jesus, and I command him to leave with all of his oppression and attacks. Jesus, You are the Lord of my life, and I submit to You and will never deny You no matter what happens. Praise God!".

Instead of praying like that, many Christians fall for the enemy's lies and come under condemnation and suffering. They begin to question God and even become mad at Him. The fault is not the Lord's but our own. We miss His complete victory because we have attributed Satan's attack to the Lord. We can even open the door for the enemy to come against us by not having a cheerful and rejoicing heart. We may complain and gripe to God about our plight in life instead of using the weapons He has given us to overcome the devil. Telling our troubles to God is not complaining, but blaming God for them is. One of the greatest weapons is our weapon of praise. We must praise God that He is there for us and lean not to our own understanding.

Chicken Divan

2011-11-11T16:51:05Z

CHICKEN DIVAN - by Jan Tilley

2 (10 oz) pkg. frozen broccoli spears
6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cooked and sliced
2 (10.75 oz) cans Campbell’s Healthy Request Cream of Chicken Soup
1 cup light mayonnaise
1 tsp fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp curry powder
1/2 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese shreds
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp. butter, melted

DIRECTIONS

Cook broccoli in boiling waater until tender; drain. Arrange spears in greased 9 X 13 in. glass dish.
Place chicken on top of broccoli.
Combine soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice and curry powder; pour over chicken. Sprinkle with cheese.
Combine breadcrumbs and butter. Sprinkle over all. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until bubbly.

Makes 8 servings.

Exchanges: 1.5 carbohydrate, 3.5 protein, 3 fat

Diabete Friendly

Garlic Salmon Linguine Recipe

2011-11-10T17:31:07Z

Garlic Salmon Linguine Recipe

Theresa Hagan shares the garlic-seasoned main dish priced at 67 cents a serving. It calls for handy pantry ingredients, including pasta and canned salmon. "I serve it with asparagus, rolls and fruit," says the Glendale, Arizona cook.

6 Servings
Prep/Total Time: 20 min.

Ingredients

1 package (16 ounces) linguine
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup olive oil
1 can (14-3/4 ounces) salmon, drained, bones and skin removed
3/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions

Cook the linguine according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute garlic in oil until crisp-tender. Stir in the salmon, broth, parsley, salt and cayenne. Cook until heated through. Drain linguine; add to the salmon mixture and toss to coat. Yield: 6 servings.

Nutrition Facts: 1 serving (1 each) equals 489 calories, 19 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 31 mg cholesterol, 693 mg sodium, 56 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 25 g protein.

Macaroni & Cheese Bake Recipe

2011-10-23T21:47:45Z

Macaroni & Cheese Bake Recipe

“I have forever been experimenting with macaroni and cheese. This recipe is the one my husband likes the best!” You and your kids are sure to love it, too! Margaret Spear - Morris, IL

Ingredients

2-1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
3 eggs, lightly beaten
5 slices process American cheese, chopped
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
3/4 cup process cheese sauce
3/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
2-1/2 cups (10 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Directions

Cook macaroni according to package directions.
Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt butter. Stir in the milk, eggs, process cheese, sour cream, cheese sauce and seasonings. Cook and stir over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until cheeses are melted. Drain macaroni; toss with 2 cups cheddar cheese.
Transfer to a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Add sauce mixture and mix well. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Yield: 8 servings.

Nutrition Facts: 1 piece equals 507 calories, 34 g fat (23 g saturated

Lazy Florentine Lasagna

2011-10-03T16:20:37Z

LAZY FLORENTINE LASAGNA (SERVES 4-6)

From Rachel Ray

• Salt

• 1 pound wavy edge lasagna noodles, regular or whole wheat, broken into irregular pieces
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
• 1 pound crimini mushrooms, thinly sliced or chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced or chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

• Pepper
• 1 bundle green or red Swiss chard, Tuscan kale or 1 pound spinach leaves, stemmed,

leaves halved lengthwise then thinly sliced
• 1 cup chicken stock or vegetable stock
• 4 tablespoons butter

• 3 slightly rounded tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste

• 1 cup grated Grana Padano or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
• 1 cup fontina cheese, grated

1. Pre-heat the oven to 400°F.

2. Boil the water and salt it, then cook the pasta to 2 minutes shy of al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking water before draining.

3. Meanwhile, heat the EVOO in a skillet over medium high heat. Add the mushrooms and brown well, then add the onion, garlic and thyme and season with salt and pepper. Cook to soften the onions, then wilt in the greens, deglaze the pan with the stock and reduce the heat to low.

4. While the mushrooms cook, in a saucepot over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, cook for 1 minute, then whisk in the milk. Bring to a bubble and season the sauce with salt and pepper. Let thicken, then season with nutmeg, to taste.

5. Drain the pasta and combine it with the mushrooms and greens and a little of the reserved starchy cooking water. Transfer to a baking dish or casserole, then pour the white sauce over top and cover with cheese. Bake until bubbly and brown, 20 minutes or so.

Almond Butter Recipes

2011-09-18T15:07:51Z

Almond Butter Breakfast Wrap

A healthy alternative to sugar-laden cereals, this nutritious spin on a breakfast burrito is easy to assemble and even easier to eat. Creamy and delicious almond butter with fresh fruit rolled into a whole wheat tortilla is a great way to start any morning.

Ingredients:

4 medium flour tortillas
4 tablespoons almond butter
2 cups diced peaches
2 cups diced pears
Cinnamon to taste
Honey

Directions:

Warm the tortillas in the microwave oven; spread a tablespoon of almond butter on each tortilla.
Divide peaches and pears between tortillas and sprinkle each with cinnamon; drizzle with honey; wrap like a burrito and warm over a hot skillet until lightly browned.

Homemade Almond Butter Protein Bars

Making your own granola bars is simple, fun, and economical. The best part is that you can tweak and customize your favorite recipes to meet your own standards, needs, and tastes.

Ingredients:

Nonstick cooking spray
1 cup soy protein powder
1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup oat bran
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 to 2/3 cup (packed) brown sugar
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups plain or vanilla yogurt
1/4 cup canola oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

Mix together the protein powder, flour, oats, oat bran, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl; crumble in the brown sugar, rubbing it with your fingers to break up any clumps; stir in the chocolate chips.
Measure yogurt, oil, and vanilla into a second bowl, stirring until well combined; add the wet mixture to the dry, and mix patiently until thoroughly blended. (You may have to use your hands—it will be a thick batter, almost like dough).
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, patting it evenly into place with your hands; bake in the center of the oven for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and cut into bars of any size or shape; place the bars on the prepared baking tray and bake for another 15 minutes, or until golden around the edges. (For extra-crunchy bars, turn off the oven and leave them in for up to 45 minutes.) Remove the bars from the oven, and place them on a rack to cool.
Eat the bars within a few hours, or seal them in a heavy zip-style plastic bag and store in the freezer. For maximum crispness, "refresh" them in a toaster oven after defrosting.

Almond Butter Toffee Crunch Cookies

The holiday season might not be here yet, but cookie season has only just begun. Whether you’re baking with your kids on a rainy afternoon, or churning out batches in the morning as surprise lunchtime snacks, toasted almond pieces and the crunch of toffee in a shortbread-like cookie will never fail to bring a smile to a person’s face.

Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted
1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
1 cup canola oil
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 large eggs
4 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 2/3 cups coarsely chopped almonds, lightly toasted
8 to 10-ounces toffee bits
Granulated sugar for rolling and pressing the dough

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Using an electric mixer in a large bowl, blend together the sugars, butter, and oil until well combined.
Add almond extract and eggs and mix well; blend in the flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar; stir in the almonds and toffee bits, mixing well to distribute.
Cover and chill the dough for 1 hour. Scoop dough into large tablespoon sized balls and roll in sugar.
Place 5-inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Press dough with the bottom of a glass dipped in additional sugar; bake for 14 to 19 minutes, or until light golden brown around the edges. Cool 1 minute, then remove from cookie sheets to wire racks to cool completely.

Chicken Satay & Broccoli with Almond Butter Sesame Sauce

Winter days are short and evenings are even shorter, especially when you’re trying to get dinner on the table for your busy family. What you need, instead of take-out, is a light and tasty chicken dish that's quick and easy to make.

Ingredients:

1/2, 12-ounce bag fresh broccoli florets (about 2 cups)
2 tablespoons almond butter
2 tablespoons prepared sesame vinaigrette or Chinese chicken salad vinaigrette
1, 6-ounce package fresh grilled chicken breast strips.

Directions:

Place 1-inch of water in a medium pot and add broccoli; cover, turn heat to high and bring to a boil. Steam broccoli for 3 to 4 minutes, until tender-crisp and still bright green. Drain and refrigerate broccoli for 20 minutes to chill. (This may be done ahead of time.)

Meanwhile, stir together almond butter and sesame dressing in a small bowl. Cut cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces; thread chicken and broccoli, alternating, onto 6 skewers.
To serve, divide sauce among 2 small bowls, or ramekins, and place them on two small plates. Divide skewers among plates and serve. Tip: By multiplying the quantity of almond butter and sesame dressing, you can have a dipping sauce to use all week for vegetables, chicken, shrimp, and more.

Chicken-and-Broccoli Cobbler

2011-09-18T03:52:05Z

CHICKEN-AND-BROCCOLI COBBLER

makes four servings

1/4 cup butter, melted

3 cups cubed sourdough bread (6 1/2 oz)

1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

3 cups small broccoli florets

3 cups chopped cooked chicken

1/2 cup drained chopped roasted red bell pepper

1 (10-oz.) container refrigerated Alfredo sauce

1/2 cup sour cream

2 Tbsp. dry sherry

1. Preheat over to 400^. Drizzle butter over bread cubes in a large bowl; sprinkle with cheese, and toss well.

2. Combine broccoli and next 5 ingredients in a large bowl. Spoon filling into a lightly greased 2-quart rectangular or oval baking dish or individual baking dishes; top with bread cubes.

3. Bake, uncovered, at 400^ for 30 minutes (20 to 25 minutes for individual cobblers) or until bubbly and top is toasted.

Quickie Gumbo

2011-07-18T19:41:06Z

I just have to recommend it (even called Bill, my 'bro' to thank him again for telling me about this 'quick' fix). He had said to use Campbell's Chunky Gumbo, but our store didn't have that, so I had bought two cans of Progresso Chicken Gumbo (which I just happened to have a coupon for $2 off . This is how I did my 'personal' thing:

First, I chopped up a small onion, and a large stick of celery, and threw them in my microwave pressure cooker, 'cooking' them until they were 'tender'. During that time, I had run the frozen shrimp until the hot water until they were 'separated' from each other, and removed the tail peel from them all.

Then, I added the two cans of gumbo to the onion and the celery,

the shrimp, chopped green onion, fillet, a little garlic POWDER (not 'garlic salt'), put the top on the cooker and put it back into the microwave for a bout 10 minutes (really, just long enough to bring it to a sizzle).

During that time, I thin-sliced French bread, buttered one side only, and browned both sides in my electric oven. I had left-over rice, and a bag of that 'salad mix', so washed off just enough to make us salads. I also had two left-over hard-boiled eggs, so chopped them in Ronnie's salad. Anyway, the meal turned out GREAT and Ronnie ate three bowls of the rice and gumbo.

Hope you enjoy. Maggie

A Good 'Recipe'

2011-07-08T17:55:14Z

In Chronicles 7:14, You say...."If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways ... then will I hear from Heaven, will forgive their sins and will heal their land."

Please God .. please bless and reawaken America !!!!

Apple Pancakes

2011-07-07T15:54:56Z

Apple Pancakes Recipe

From TASTE OF HOME newsletter

100% would make again

My husband loves pancakes and is a hearty eater. When we bother became diabetics, I revised the recipe to fit our dietary needs. — Fern Motzinger, Omaha, Nebraska

Ingredients

2 cups reduced-fat biscuit/baking mix
Sugar substitute equivalent to 2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup egg substitute
1 cup fat-free milk
2 teaspoons Spice Island® Pure Vanilla Extract
1 tart apple, peeled and grated

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the biscuit mix, sugar substitute, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. In a small bowl, combine the egg substitute, milk and vanilla; stir into dry ingredients. Fold in apple.
Pour batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto a hot skillet coated with cooking spray; turn when bubbles form on top. Cook until second side is golden brown. Yield: 10 servings.

Nutrition Facts: One serving (one pancake) equals 117 calories, 2 g fat (0 saturated fat), 1 mg cholesterol, 420 mg sodium, 21 g carbohydrate, 0 fiber, 3 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.

Several Recipes

2011-07-04T19:17:18Z

Almond Butter Breakfast Wrap

4 medium flour tortillas
4 tablespoons almond butter
2 cups diced peaches
2 cups diced pears
Cinnamon to taste
Honey

Directions:

Warm the tortillas in the microwave oven; spread a tablespoon of almond butter on each tortilla.
Divide peaches and pears between tortillas and sprinkle each with cinnamon; drizzle with honey; wrap like a burrito and warm over a hot skillet until lightly browned.

Homemade Almond Butter Protein Bars

Making your own granola bars is simple, fun, and economical. The best part is that you can tweak and customize your favorite recipes to meet your own standards, needs, and tastes.

Ingredients:

Nonstick cooking spray
1 cup soy protein powder
1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup oat bran
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 to 2/3 cup (packed) brown sugar
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups plain or vanilla yogurt
1/4 cup canola oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

Mix together the protein powder, flour, oats, oat bran, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl; crumble in the brown sugar, rubbing it with your fingers to break up any clumps; stir in the chocolate chips.
Measure yogurt, oil, and vanilla into a second bowl, stirring until well combined; add the wet mixture to the dry, and mix patiently until thoroughly blended. (You may have to use your hands—it will be a thick batter, almost like dough).
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, patting it evenly into place with your hands; bake in the center of the oven for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and cut into bars of any size or shape; place the bars on the prepared baking tray and bake for another 15 minutes, or until golden around the edges. (For extra-crunchy bars, turn off the oven and leave them in for up to 45 minutes.) Remove the bars from the oven, and place them on a rack to cool.
Eat the bars within a few hours, or seal them in a heavy zip-style plastic bag and store in the freezer. For maximum crispness, "refresh" them in a toaster oven after defrosting.

Almond Butter Toffee Crunch Cookies

Whether you’re baking with your kids on a rainy afternoon, or churning out batches in the morning as surprise lunchtime snacks, toasted almond pieces and the crunch of toffee in a shortbread-like cookie will never fail to bring a smile to a person’s face.

Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted
1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
1 cup canola oil
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 large eggs
4 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 2/3 cups coarsely chopped almonds, lightly toasted
8 to 10-ounces toffee bits
Granulated sugar for rolling and pressing the dough

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Using an electric mixer in a large bowl, blend together the sugars, butter, and oil until well combined.
Add almond extract and eggs and mix well; blend in the flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar; stir in the almonds and toffee bits, mixing well to distribute.
Cover and chill the dough for 1 hour. Scoop dough into large tablespoon sized balls and roll in sugar.
Place 5-inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Press dough with the bottom of a glass dipped in additional sugar; bake for 14 to 19 minutes, or until light golden brown around the edges. Cool 1 minute, then remove from cookie sheets to wire racks to cool completely.

Chicken Satay & Broccoli with Almond Butter Sesame Sauce

What you need, instead of take-out, is a light and tasty chicken dish that's quick and easy to make.

Ingredients:

1/2, 12-ounce bag fresh broccoli florets (about 2 cups)
2 tablespoons almond butter
2 tablespoons prepared sesame vinaigrette or Chinese chicken salad vinaigrette
1, 6-ounce package fresh grilled chicken breast strips.

Directions:

Place 1-inch of water in a medium pot and add broccoli; cover, turn heat to high and bring to a boil. Steam broccoli for 3 to 4 minutes, until tender-crisp and still bright green. Drain and refrigerate broccoli for 20 minutes to chill. (This may be done ahead of time.)

Meanwhile, stir together almond butter and sesame dressing in a small bowl.

Cut cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces; thread chicken and broccoli, alternating, onto 6 skewers.

To serve, divide sauce among 2 small bowls, or ramekins, and place them on two small plates. Divide skewers among plates and serve.

Tip: By multiplying the quantity of almond butter and sesame dressing, you can have a dipping sauce to use all week for vegetables, chicken, shrimp, and more.

Cherry Chocolate Pie

2011-07-04T19:12:49Z

11 large marshmallows

1/3 cup milk

1 piece (3 ounces) milk chocolate candy bar, chopper

1 container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed and divided

1 graham cracker crust (10 inches)

1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling

In a large saucepan, combine the marshmallows, milk and chocolate.

Cook and stir over medium-low heat until smooth. Cool completely.

Fold 3/4 cup whipped topping into chocolate mixture. Pour into prepared

crust. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Top with pie filling

and remaining whipped topping. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or

overnight. Yield: 8 servings.

Recipe for Protection - Stay Alert

2011-06-13T18:03:52Z

(My words are in BLUE; the rest are from THE WORD and in black.)

Luke 10:33-35 - "But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. `Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have'."

Last night, we watched 'DATELINE' about internet scams..... Amazing that so many folks, in the name of being a Good Samaritan, fall for these schemes. I personally know two people who fell victim. The first 'red light' should be by someone you've never heard contacting you online, has a 'sad story', and needs cash for the doctor, hospital, etc. As Christians, the very first thing we should feel for another is love and/or charity. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that.

1 Corinthians 13:13 - "Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love."

However, there are times when the devil uses that against us.

1 Peter 5:8 - "Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour."

'STAY ALERT'

Use the good common sense - wisdom - that God gives us.

Colossians 3:16 - "Instruct and direct one another using good common sense..........."

Job 34:1-4 - "Elihu continued: 'So, my fine friends—listen to me, and see what you think of this. Isn't it just common sense—
as common as the sense of taste— to put our heads together and figure out what's going on here?"

Ephesians 1:8 - "He has showered His kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding."

The second 'red light' is they usually live overseas, i.e. Nigeria (the very worse origin), seem totally 'official', and prey on one's greed - exchanging a little for a lot.

Psalm 57:4 - "I am surrounded by fierce lions who greedily devour human prey — whose teeth pierce like spears and arrows, and whose tongues cut like swords."

Luke 12:15 - "Then he said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.”

Proverbs 24:5 - "It's better to be wise than strong; intelligence outranks muscle any day. Strategic planning is the key to warfare; to win, you need a lot of good counsel."

And, what is that 'good counsel'? I would say God, the Bible, and the true wisdom of others.

Psalm 37:30 - "The godly offer good counsel; they teach right from wrong."

Proverbs 20:18 - "Plans succeed through good counsel; don’t go to war without wise advice."

Colossians 3:16 - "Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all

the wisdom He gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts."

Hope you have a protected and safe day. Maggie

__________________________________________________________________

Put First the Word

"For skillful and godly Wisdom is the principal thing....
Prize Wisdom highly and exalt her,

and she will exalt and promote you; she will bring you to honor when you embrace her."
(Proverbs 4:7-8)

I want to tell you the only real secret to getting ahead in this world. It's simple. Put the Word of God first place in your daily life.

"Well," you may be saying, "I've heard that before. It's no secret." But when you understand what I mean, it could be a revelation to you.

You see, the Bible is not just a textbook, a storybook, or a history book. It's a handbook for living. It's the wisdom of Almighty God written down so that you can apply it to your everyday circumstances.

God says that wisdom is the "principal thing." Principal means "first in importance." That means the Word of God needs to occupy the place of highest importance in all of your activities. I know from experience what an impact that can have on your life.

Twenty years ago I decided to read the gospels and the book of Acts three times in 30 days. It seemed an impossible task at the time. With two small children and my house turned upside down from a recent move, I couldn't see how I could possibly spend that much time reading the Word and still get everything done. But I set myself to put other things aside and do it anyway.

Surprisingly enough, at the end of the first day I had accomplished more than I would have under normal circumstances. And by the end of that 30 days, I'd not only read the gospels and Acts three times, I'd kept all my housework done, taken care of my children, and refinished several pieces of furniture to boot! I was amazed.

You'll be amazed at what happens in your life too, if you give God's Word priority. But let me warn you, don't wait until you think you have the time. Satan will see to it that you never do.

Just do like I did and set other things aside. Invest your time in the Word first and that investment will soon be paying off in every area of your life.

~~~~Gloria Copeland

Eggplant Parmesan

2011-06-02T18:11:50Z

Eggplant Parmesan
from Janet

Eggplant is breaded and fried then topped with sauce and cheese and baked, in this Eggplant Parmesan recipe.

Ingredients:

1 large eggplant, about 1 1/2 pounds
2 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups fine, dry bread crumbs mixed with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
olive oil
2 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried leaf basil
1/2 teaspoon dried leaf oregano, crumbled
16 ounces sliced mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

Wash eggplant and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices. Dip into beaten eggs then dredge with seasoned bread crumbs. Place slices on a plate and chill for 30 to 45 minutes. Heat about 1/8-inch of oil in a heavy skillet. Fry eggplant on both sides until golden brown and crispy. Drain well on paper towels. In a saucepan, heat tomato sauce, basil, and oregano. Spread 1/3 of the sauce in a greased 12x8x2-inch baking dish. Layer half of the eggplant, half of the mozzarella cheese slices, another 1/3 of the sauce, and half the Parmesan. Repeat layers. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Eggplant Parmesan serves 6.

Lazy Florentine Lasagna

2011-06-02T18:08:42Z

LAZY FLORENTINE LASAGNA (SERVES 4-6)

From Rachel Ray

• Salt
• 1 pound wavy edge lasagna noodles, regular or whole wheat, broken into irregular pieces
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
• 1 pound crimini mushrooms, thinly sliced or chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced or chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

• Pepper
• 1 bundle green or red Swiss chard, Tuscan kale or 1 pound spinach leaves, stemmed,

leaves halved lengthwise then thinly sliced
• 1 cup chicken stock or vegetable stock
• 4 tablespoons butter

• 3 slightly rounded tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste

A Memorial Meal - Recipe for Honoring Our Military

2011-05-30T17:00:56Z

A Memorial Meal

By Dianne Neal Matthews
Guest Writer

CBN.com - Memorial Day, formerly known as Decoration Day, was instituted to honor Civil War dead. Local observances were held as early as 1866, many of them in the South where most of the war dead were buried. The first official and large observance took place on May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery, which held the remains of twenty thousand Union soldiers and several Confederate dead. Five thousand people attended the ceremony.

New York was the first state to declare the holiday, in 1873; other states quickly followed. After World War I, citizens expanded the observances to honor those who died in all American wars. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday and changed the date to the last Monday in May. In recent years, many use the occasion to decorate the graves of loved ones.

Under God's direction, the Israelites had "Memorial Day" celebrations to help them remember major events in their history. They celebrated Passover each year to commemorate their miraculous deliverance from slavery in Egypt. When Jesus ate His last Passover meal, He instituted a new memorial to commemorate the deliverance from slavery to sin that He would accomplish for all believers through His death. As He shared the bread and wine with His disciples, He instructed them to eat and drink in remembrance of Him.

The speaker at the first official Memorial Day service urged the audience to tend the graves of the dead soldiers to testify that our country had not forgotten the cost of a free, undivided republic. When we take part in the Lord's Supper we are testifying that we remember the cost of our salvation. We are celebrating a "Memorial Meal" in honor of the One who won the war against death and sin.

[Jesus told his disciples,] "Do this to remember me." (Luke 22:19)

Hope you all have a great Memorial Day weekend and remember to remember those in the military, past and present, and those particularly who are in the Middle East, for their safety, protection, good health, and 'feeling' our undying gratitude and our prayers. The following is a 'daily thought' from MountainWings, and it says it all.

Have a blessed day.. Take care & keep praying.

Maggie

_________________________________________________________

Scott got to church early to get a good seat for the Christmas
service. He found a seat up against the aisle, and settled in.
People were starting to file in wearing their Sunday finery when
he remembered his cell phone was on. Just as he started to cut
it off, John walked up with a big smile and a handshake.
A typical Sunday morning conversation ensued, and as it was
ending John questioned Scott about turning off his cell phone.

"You never know," he said. "Some desperate soul just might need
you," he smiled.

Scott grimaced, reconsidered, and turned the phone onto vibrate.
Scott ran a one-man towing business, and the last thing he
wanted this morning was to have to miss the service to haul
someone out of a ditch, or worse, drag the shredded remains of
someone's car off of the highway.

Not five minutes passed before his cell phone vibrated. As he
walked toward the lobby to answer the call he could only think,
"Full retail for this one."

It was old Mrs. Wingate, a widow whose dilapidated jalopy was
headed for the Guinness Book of World records for running long
past the natural life span of any car. Her car had broken down
on her way to church, and she was stranded on the side of the
road, freezing. She was perhaps the kindliest little old lady
anyone could ever hope to meet, and he could scarcely ask her to
call anyone else. After all, she and his Mom were good friends.

When he arrived, Scott could see the steam still rising from her
hood. She smiled gracefully as only a true Southern lady could,
and they commiserated for a moment over her ailing car. As he
slipped a pair of coveralls over his Sunday pants and shirt, he
asked her to step in front of his truck for safety's sake.

"Why, whatever for?" she asked. He explained how when the steel
cable pulled her car up onto the flat bed of his truck there was
always the possibility that it could snap, and either hurt or
maybe even kill someone.

She gave a little gasp, and moved in front of the truck. In
just a few minutes her ailing car was secured, and the pair took
off towards her mechanic's shop. Since her church was almost on
the way, he asked if he could drop her off there. She turned to
him and said, "Yes, thank you."

As he pulled up to the side door of her church to let her out,
she asked, "How much do I owe you." He smiled, knowing that she
was as poor as a church mouse. He pointed to the church
building and said, "This one's on the House." She smiled that
smile that only the truly thankful and relieved could smile, put
her time-worn hand on his forearm and said, "I will always pray
for your safety."

As she walked towards the church she joined some friends. As he
pulled away, he could see them clustered in that tight huddle
ladies form when some news needs to be shared. He knew he did
not need to ask if she could get a ride home. That was as given
as tomorrow's sunrise.

A year later, Scott's Reserve Unit got called up for combat
duty. He had all the training he needed, and now it was the
time to pony up. He went through the usual tearful goodbyes
with his parents and friends, and took the long grueling flight
overseas.

Shortly after arriving, his unit was assigned to clear a town of
"insurgents." With his mechanical skills, it was no surprise
that he was assigned to a support group helping to maintain
other vehicles in their unit.

It was not a peaceful day. Occasionally, the distinctive
clatter of AK-47s would be heard along with the blast of rocket
propelled grenades. This was usually followed by M-16 and 50
caliber machine gun fire. It wasn't long before his team got
the call to assist a wounded humvee towards the center of town.

They quickly descended on the shot-up vehicle, and began
repairs. As they worked away it became obvious what parts and
tools were needed, so Scott returned to the truck to get them.
As he rounded the back of the truck he ran face-first into a
enemy soldier that had slipped up quietly. Instantly an AK-47
was shoved into his face, and he heard the hammer of the rifle
drop as the trigger was pulled. It was the loudest sound he had
ever heard in his life. For whatever reason, the gun had not
discharged, but he had heard that gun's hammer hit steel like a
blacksmith's hammer striking an anvil.

Immediately he reacted. With his left hand he swept the gun
aside, and with his right hand slammed the heavy wrench he was
carrying into the head of the enemy soldier. The grungy, AK-
carrying guerilla went down like a pile of rags. Calling for
help, he turned his unconscious would-be killer over to the
combat troops.

He was shaken so hard he couldn't stand up. He sat down on the
truck's tailgate. He could only think, "The gun should have
gone off. It should have blown my brains across the street. I
should be dead." But he wasn't.

By evening, his nerves had finally settled down as much as they
were going to that day. His team had been called back to work
on a downed vehicle in a well-secured area so they moved away
from the fighting. After chow the mail caught up with them. He
got two letters, and a post card. He flipped the post card over
and found that it was from that dear old soul, Mrs. Wingate.

It had only one sentence,

"I will always pray for your safety."

He bowed his head, and quietly cried.

~ by Jack Holton Cowart~

http://www.mountainwings.com

If You Have Two Shirts

2011-05-24T17:53:25Z

Yes, there's more to this 'daily' than just asking for you to donate to help the tornadoes victims. Read on.......

Luke 3:11

"John replied, 'If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry'.”

Galatians 6:2

"Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ."

The devastations left by tornadoes and floods are nothing short of horrible. There are thousands of people whose homes were flattened, destroyed, or left completely uninhabitable, not to mention they are now jobless because where they worked was also left completely destroyed. Situations like this are when we, as Christians, need to step up, and fly to aid these people, whether you can donate small or large, clothes which are perfectly good but you don't wear anymore, non-perishables, baby needs, pet needs, etc. Then, there's a need for NEW underwear.

I've always been taught that where there's a physical need, we Christians need to step up and meet those needs before we try 'spreading the Word'..... When we help others, we're doing exactly what God expects us to do. I've so often said that we are God's hands and feet here on earth, and we need to be a blessing as ambassadors for God, shining with our love for Jesus.

Isaiah 58:7
    "Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless.
   Give clothes to those who need them,
      and do not hide from relatives who need your help."

If you live too far away to deliver your donations, just send a check - small
or large. If you donate to the Red Cross, be sure to write check to the AMERICAN RED CROSS, and write on the check: for Alabama, Mississippi,
or Missouri tornado relief - or whichever state you want to the money to go to. If you don't do this, there's really no telling where your donation will end up. Also, Samaritans Purse (P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607, (828) 262-1980 to ask how to donate the exact state you want). Then, there's Operation Blessings through CBN.com. Phone (800) 759-0700 for more information.

Job 31:17 - "Have I been stingy with my food and refused to share it with orphans?"

Revelation 3:20 - “'Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear My voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends'."

Galatians 6:2 - "Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ."

Just today, the following article was on the 'front page' of our local Fox Network.

As you know, we live in Alabama, and I'm so proud of our Governor and our state.

Governor Bentley reaches out to Missouri

MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC)

Alabama Governor Robert Bentley is reaching out to Joplin, Missouri. He called Missouri's governor Monday morning to offer condolences and help.

Bentley says he knows what Governor Jay Nixon is going through. He also says Alabama officials have learned many lessons that might help speed Missouri's recovery.

"We are very saddened by the pictures we see there, because if you take Joplin, Missouri and you put it in Tuscaloosa or Pratt City or Marion County, they're all the same," said Bentley. "God help them, provide them help like we've had here. It's been awesome how God has poured out its blessings"

FEMA is mobilizing workers to send to Joplin, Missouri. Officials say this will not affect the relief effort in Alabama. A spokesperson says FEMA representatives will remain in Alabama as long as needed.

If you are a storm victim, you have until June 27th to apply for help with FEMA. The number is 1-800-621-3362. People who are hearing impaired can call 1-800-462-7585. You can also apply online at fema.gov.

Acts 2:46
" They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper,

and shared their meals with great joy and generosity. "

I hope that these thoughts are well received with you, that you pray about it, and that you realize that 'doing' for others is blessing our Heavenly Father. HE'd be so proud. Maggie

__________________________________________________________________

Recipes

Spicy Honey-Brushed Chicken Thighs

Hot Sausage and Black-eye Pea Jambalaya

Maggie's Fruit Salad

Recipe for Happiness

Chicken Divan

Garlic Salmon Linguine Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Macaroni & Cheese Bake Recipe

Directions

Lazy Florentine Lasagna

LAZY FLORENTINE LASAGNA (SERVES 4-6)

From Rachel Ray

Almond Butter Recipes

Almond Butter Breakfast Wrap

Homemade Almond Butter Protein Bars

Almond Butter Toffee Crunch Cookies

Chicken Satay & Broccoli with Almond Butter Sesame Sauce

Chicken-and-Broccoli Cobbler

Quickie Gumbo

A Good 'Recipe'

Apple Pancakes

Directions

Several Recipes

Almond Butter Breakfast Wrap

Homemade Almond Butter Protein Bars

Chicken Satay & Broccoli with Almond Butter Sesame Sauce

Cherry Chocolate Pie

Recipe for Protection - Stay Alert

Eggplant Parmesan

Ingredients:

Preparation:

Lazy Florentine Lasagna

LAZY FLORENTINE LASAGNA (SERVES 4-6)

From Rachel Ray

A Memorial Meal - Recipe for Honoring Our Military

By Dianne Neal Matthews Guest Writer

If You Have Two Shirts

Yes, there's more to this 'daily' than just asking for you to donate to help the tornadoes victims. Read on.......

Luke 3:11

"John replied, 'If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry'.”

Just today, the following article was on the 'front page' of our local Fox Network.

As you know, we live in Alabama, and I'm so proud of our Governor and our state.

By Dianne Neal Matthews
Guest Writer