SANDRA'S EASY ONE-PAN CHICKEN THIGH and RICE CREOLE BAKE

First, I sear the chicken thighs, then add all the other ingredients,

cover and bake for 50 minutes = absolute perfection with crispy, moist chicken

and heavenly seasoned rice!

Servings: 3-4

Prep: 5 Mins.

Cook  10 Mins.

Bake: 50 Mins.

Rest: 10 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Spice blend (divided):

2 teaspoons Creole seasoning (I use Tony Chachere's in the green container)

1 teaspoon Lawry's seasoning salt

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons onion powder

2 teaspoons paprika

1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper

Chicken:

3-4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs, (mine are from Costco the 3-pack tends to come with 3/4 thighs)

1/2 of above spice blend mixture (reserve other 1/2 for rice, below)

1 teaspoon Mazola oil

Plus, 1 tablespoon Mazola oil for searing

Rice:

1 cup raw Calrose rice (short-grain)

Remaining 1/2 of spice mixture

1 tablespoon Worcestershire

2 tablespoons ketchup

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon lemon juice

METHOD

Preheat oven to 400F. Place an ovenproof medium-size stainless steel skillet, with lid, aside.

Add all the spice blend ingredients onto a paper plate, then whisk to combine; set aside.

Place the skillet (see photo) over high heat on stovetop with 2 tablespoons of Mazola oil.

Meanwhile, pat chicken thighs dry with paper towel, including using kitchen shears to cut any excess fat without disturbing skin on under-side.  Place prepared thighs in a medium bowl.  Add half the spice mixture and drizzle with 1 teaspoon Mazola oil, then gently rub spices into both sides to coat evenly.

Place chicken skin-side down using tongs into hot skillet, while sliding back and forth initially when doing so to prevent sticking. Sear for 4 minutes on skin-side down, turn over then do the same on the under-side for 4 more minutes. Remove seared chicken thighs to a paper plate and set aside; drain grease from pan while reserving drippings.

Reduce heat under pan to medium-high and add the raw rice and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the other 1/2 of the reserved spice mixture, ketchup, Worcestershire, and lemon juice; sauté for 30 seconds.

Deglaze pan with chicken stock while scraping bottom with a wooden spoon.  Using tongs, place the seared chicken thighs back into pan atop the rice, skin-side up.  Cover, then bake, undisturbed, for 50 minutes.

Remove pan from oven, leaving covered, and let rest for 10 minutes for chicken juices to redistribute. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S SPECTACULAR SLOPPY JOES

A quick and easy lunch or dinner.

Also, it's a perfect take-along dish if you wish to double or triple the recipe

for functions ~ keep warm in a slow cooker though and serve as sliders!

Servings: (4)

Prep: 10 Mins.

Cook: 15 to 20 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

1 lb extra-lean ground moose (or venison, or beef)

1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic

1/4 teaspoon granulated onion

1/2 cup diced celery

1/4 cup diced yellow onion

1/4 cup diced red bell pepper

1 (8oz-can) tomato sauce

1⁄4 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons spicy barbecue sauce (I use Stubb's Spicy)

1 tablespoon light brown sugar

1 teaspoon dry mustard

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon cider vinegar

METHOD

In a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground meat, celery, bell pepper and onion.

Stir in remaining ingredients, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve open-face style over toasted buns with a side of prepared Sandra's potato salad or coleslaw. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip: I toast my buns in my toaster set on the 'bagel setting,' or feel free to do so in the oven under the broiler.

MAX'S ALASKAN MOOSE-SWEET ITALIAN SAUSAGE SPAGHETTI

A comfort-food dish that you and your family are bound to love
as much as my husband Max and I do...

Servings (8 to 10)

Prep: 20 Mins.

Cook: 2 Hrs.

INGREDIENTS:

Sauce:

1 lb (or so) moose, venison, or beef burger

1 lb (or so) ground Johnsonville Sweet Italian Sausage

3 ribs celery, finely chopped

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

1/2 of a large red bell pepper, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 (29-oz can) tomato sauce, plus

--1 (16-oz. can) tomato sauce

1 (16-oz. can) Italian Stewed Tomatoes, do not drain but chop tomatoes

3 to 4 tablespoons honey, to taste

1 tablespoon dried sweet basil

1 tablespoon dried parsley, or a small bunch of chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon dried Italian herb seasoning

Finish:

--Balsamic Vinegar

Serve with:

--12 oz. prepared thin spaghetti, according to package directions

--Freshly grated parmesan

--Loaf of prepared garlic bread

METHOD

In a large, heavy-bottom pot, brown the burger and sausage, then drain. Add the remaining ingredients, in the order listed above, to the pot.  Simmer, covered, for a couple of hours; stirring occasionally. Finally, add several good shots of Balsamic Vinegar.

In the meantime, prepare thin spaghetti noodles.

Serve sauce over pasta and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan, including a side of warm garlic bread.

SANDRA'S COMFORTING PENNE with VEGGIES

Had a craving for a meatless dinner this evening 

so created this recipe using on-hand ingredients, 

which 'fit the bill' to perfection...

Servings: (6)

Prep: 10 Mins.

Cook: 25 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

1/2 lb. penne pasta, prepared according to pkg. directions

2 tbsp. light olive oil

2 tbsp. unsalted butter

1/2 onion, finely chopped

1/2 yellow bell pepper, finely chopped

6 crimini mushrooms, halved and sliced

1 garlic clove, minced

2 zucchini, cubed

1 (15 oz. can) diced Italian seasoned tomatoes, undrained

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

2 teaspoons dried basil

2 teaspoons worcestershire

2 teaspoon balsamic

Small squirt of agave (or honey)

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Finishing:

2 tablespoons. unsalted butter

Freshly grated parmesan cheese

METHOD

Begin preparing pasta according to package directions, except cooking shy by a couple minutes (pasta will finish cooking in sauce).  When draining, reserve 1/2 cup hot pasta liquid; set aside.

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add onion, bell pepper, mushrooms and garlic. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add zucchini and tomatoes, kosher salt, red pepper flakes, basil, worcestershire, balsamic, and agave. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 10 minutes.

Add cooked, drained, hot pasta with and additional 2 tablespoons softened butter to skillet, along with freshly ground pepper, and reserved pasta water; toss to combine, and cook for a final 2 minutes.

Serve in pasta bowls, topped with freshly grated parmesan. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S ALASKA WILD DUCK with SECRET SAUCE over STEAMED RICE

A wonderful Alaskan 'comfort food' recipe I created this evening

that consists of one Pintail and another Mallard duck.

~ Thanks to my husband! ~

We'll be looking forward to having this fine dinner again and again...

Servings: (8)

Prep: 30 Mins.

Cook: 1 Hr.

INGREDIENTS

1/4 lb bacon, cut into 1/2" strips, browned (retain grease and drippings)

4 Alaska wild duck breasts, brined (See below*)

= Must be brined 3 days prior

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic

1/4 teaspoon granulated onion

Vegetables-herbs-spices:

2 cups sliced celery

1 cup chopped yellow onion

1/4 teaspoon dried sweet basil

1/8 teaspoon dried marjoram

1/8 teaspoon dried ground sage

1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic

1/4 teaspoon granulated onion

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Sauce:

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1 pkg dry brown gravy mix

2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

3-4 cups water (depending on sauce consistency)

1 tablespoon worcestershire

1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1 dry bay leaf

--Prepared steamed rice

METHOD

*Brine duck breasts 3 days prior to preparing recipe, as follows:

Clean and dress by boning and skinning two Alaska wild ducks.  Place four whole breasts in medium-size, clean, glass bowl in brine consisting of 1 tablespoon table salt and 4 cups cold water, cover and refrigerated for 3 days. Rinse brined duck breasts with cold water until water runs clear; pat dry. Remove any remaining silver skin, cut in half lengthwise, then slice into 1/2" thick pieces.

In a large heavy-bottom stainless steel skillet, over medium-high heat, brown the bacon. Using a slotted spoon, remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain; set aside. (Retain drippings and bacon grease in skillet).

Add duck pieces to the hot skillet, including granulated garlic and onion, and sauté until browned. Using a slotted spoon, remove duck pieces to another paper towel-lined plate to drain; set aside. (Retain drippings and remaining grease in pan).

Add celery, onion, basil, marjoram, sage, parsley, granulated garlic and onion to skillet and sauté until onions are translucent. Sprinkle in flour and sauté for 1 minute longer.

In the meantime, whisk all sauce ingredients in medium bowl; add to skillet. Also, add the reserved bacon and duck pieces, and bay leaf; bring to boil. Reduce heat to low to gently simmer, covered, for 1 hour, while occasionally stirring. Check sauce consistency when stirring, adding additional water, if needed.

Meanwhile, prepare steamed rice, according to package directions.

Serve over steamed rice with your favorite vegetable alongside. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S AMAZING ALASKA SOCKEYE SMOKED SALMON NOODLE CASSEROLE

A super flavorful smoked salmon
casserole that you'll
be making over and over again...

Servings: (6 to 8)
Prep. 15 Mins.
Bake: 30 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

*Pasta and peas:
4 cups dry egg noodles, prepared according to package directions
3/4 cup frozen peas

**Sautéed Vegetables:
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ medium yellow onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, cut in half lengthwise, and chopped
4 crimini mushrooms, cut in half, and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

***Sauce:
1 (4 oz. can) diced fire-roasted green chilies, drained
1 cup milk
1 (10.75 oz. can) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
3/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon worcestershire
1/2 teaspoon old bay seasoning
1 cup jarred Alaska sockeye smoked salmon strips, broken into large chunks
--(Available from http://www.alaskacannery.com/...aka Alaska Cannery and Smokehouse)

****Topping:
1 cup crushed french fried onions

METHOD

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare a 9”x13” baking dish by spraying with oil, and setting aside.

Prepare noodles according to package instructions just until al dente, adding peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking; drain both in a colander.

Meanwhile, add olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions, celery, crimini mushrooms, and saute until onions are translucent. Add the garlic, sea salt and ground pepper, to taste, and saute 30 seconds longer, then remove skillet from heat.

In a separate large bowl, mix together drained chilies, milk, soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, worcestershire, and old bay seasoning. Gently fold in  drained noodles, peas, and smoked salmon chunks. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish; cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove casserole from oven and sprinkle crushed french fried onions evenly over the top, and then return to oven, uncovered, and continue baking 10 minutes longer, until heated through and top is golden. ~ Enjoy!

Pipin' hot out of the oven...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tip: I like to serve this Alaska Smoked Salmon Noodle Casserole with Sandra's Organic Fall Herb Garden Salad with Lemon-Honey-Dijon Vinaigrette:

Sandra's Organic Fall Herb Garden Salad 
with Lemon-Honey-Dijon Vinaigrette

SANDRA’S BELOVED CHEESY SHREDDED POTATO-BACON BAKE

This entree of potatoes, cheese,

bacon and spinach is perfect for

brunch, a potluck, game day, or a quick,

colorful and flavorful dinner

with a salad...

Servings: (12)

Prep: 20 Mins.

Bake: 1 Hr.-15 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

½ white Vidalia sweet onion, diced

½ cup celery, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup milk

3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

2 teaspoons worcestershire

½ cup mayonnaise

½ cup sour cream

Salt and white pepper, to taste

Other ingredients:

1 (1 lb.-4 oz. pkg.) refrigerated shredded real hash browns (I used Simply Potatoes)

1 (10 oz. pkg.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed, drained, hand-squeezed, and chopped finer

4 strips of bacon, sliced and browned

2 cups medium shredded cheddar cheese, divided

METHOD:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Spray a 9”x13” baking dish, and set aside.

In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.  Add onion and celery and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until onions are translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.  

Whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in milk, chicken broth, and worcestershire, then bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, stirring regularly, until desired consistency is achieved, about 10 minutes. 

Remove from heat, and fold in mayonnaise and sour cream to combine.  Add salt and white pepper, to taste.

Add shredded potatoes, spinach, bacon, and 1-1/2 cups shredded cheese to a large bowl.  

Add sauce, and fold mixture to combine. 

Spread mixture in prepared baking dish, cover baking dish with foil, and bake for 1 hour. 

Remove from oven.

Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes.  

Let cool 15 minutes.  Cut into 12 equal squares, and serve. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip:  This baked potato entree can be prepared ahead of time, such as the night before and refrigerated, and then baked the following day (just bring it to room temperature for 30 minutes prior to placing in oven).

SANDRA’S TERRIFIC TOASTED BLT BAGEL SURPRISE

You’ll need a lot of napkins for this

bad boy, while you savor the yummy explosion

of many fantastic flavors 

taking place with each and every bite...

Servings: (1)

Prep: 5 Mins.

Cook: 10 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Honey-Dijon Spread:

4 tablespoons creamy dijon

4 tablespoons honey

1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted

1/4 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Bagel:

1 sour dough bagel, sliced in half and toasted

Green leaf lettuce

2 slices of tomato

2 slices of crispy-cooked bacon, cut in half

¼ avocado, roughly mashed

1 egg, either poached or fried

METHOD

Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, just until slightly golden and fragrant.  Add remaining spread ingredients to a small bowl, and whisk the toasted sesame seeds into spread, then combine.

Sandra's Universal Honey-Dijon
 Condiment Spread,
Dipping Sauce,
Dressing,
or Marinade

Toast bagel, and lightly spread both halves each with 1 teaspoon honey-dijon. Layer remaining bagel ingredients in order listed above. ~ Eat and enjoy!

SANDRA’S 8-INCH GRILLED TURKEY PEPPERONI PIZZAS

Absolutely fabulous when you want

grilled, flavorful, and tasty pizzas in a hurry

without a lot of fuss…

Yields: (2) 8” Pizzas

Prep: 5 Mins.

Grill: 8 to 10 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

1 pkg. of 2 (8”) Boboli pizza crusts (these stand up to grilling)

½ cup pizza sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup shredded medium cheddar cheese, divided

14 turkey pepperoni slices

2 tablespoons roughly chopped peperoncini

2 tablespoons roughly chopped, jarred fire-roasted red bell peppers

--1/4 teaspoon yellow cornmeal

METHOD

Preheat grill to medium-high heat.  Spray a foil-lined baking sheet, sprinkle with a light dusting of yellow cornmeal, and set aside.

Spread half of the pizza sauce on each of the crusts.

Equally, sprinkle half of the cheeses over the sauce.

Next, layer the turkey pepperoni, and sprinkle with the fire-roasted red pepper, and peperoncini.

Finally, sprinkle with the remaining cheeses.

Place pizzas on the prepared baking sheet.  Grill, covered, for 8 to 10 minutes. Remove and let stand for 5 minutes, slice into quarters, and serve. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip: Feel free to alternatively bake the small pizzas in a hot oven preheated to 450 degrees using the same method and baking for the same amount of time, although you’ll be lacking the great smoky flavor.

SANDRA’S ANYTIME QUINOA (“Keen-Wa”) PATTIES with POACHED EGGS

I often make these delicious patties

using leftover quinoa,

and this afternoon I decided to

add poached eggs on top.

These are spectacular and wholesome...

Servings: (4)

Prep: 10 Mins.

Cook: 20 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Patties:

2 large eggs

1/2 whole grain Italian breadcrumbs

1-1/2 cups cooked quinoa, at room temperature

1/2 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/3 cup finely chopped red bell pepper

1/3 cup finely chopped red onion

1 tablespoon finely chopped sun dried tomatoes

1 large garlic clove, minced

1/3 Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon ground mustard

1 tablespoon dried parsley

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons cold water

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, for frying

Poached Eggs:

Water

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Serving options:

--Lettuce leaves

--Dried parsley

--Dabs of sriracha sauce (Asian chili hot sauce)

METHOD

Beat eggs in a medium bowl.  Add breadcrumbs and stir to combine.  Add remaining patty ingredients, except the olive oil. Stir to combine, and form into 4 (3”x1”) patties.

Heat olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-low heat, and add the patties.  

Cook for 10 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown. Flip the patties and cook the second side for 7 minutes, until golden brown as well. 

Place patties on a paper towel lined plate, and set aside.

Meanwhile, in another large skillet, bring 1-1/2” depth of water to a gentle simmer, and then reduce heat to medium-low so water is no longer boiling.  Add vinegar to congeal the egg whites more easily.  Working with the eggs one at a time, crack an individual egg into a small ramekin, then place ramekin near the surface and gently slide the egg into the hot water.  Cover skillet, and let poached eggs cook for 4 minutes. Lift poached eggs out of skillet using a slotted spoon.

To serve, place quinoa patties over lettuce leaves on serving plates, top with poached eggs and sprinkle each with a pinch of parsley, including adding a dab of sriracha sauce to each plate. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~

Tip: Whole grain quinoa is the most nutritious of all grains and is high in fiber, iron, and 8 essential amino acids.

SANDRA’S SUCCULENT GRILLED HALIBUT, PINEAPPLE SALSA, and HERB STEAMED RICE

I doesn't get any better than

savoring fresh halibut fillets hot off the grill

with these delectable sides...

Servings: (2)

Prep: 2 Mins.

Grill: 10 to 12 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

2 (8 oz., 1-1/2” thick) boneless, skinless halibut fillets

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 teaspoon sea salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Optional Sides:

--Prepared Beer N’ Honey Pineapple Salsa

--Prepared Flavorful Steamed Basmati Rice N’ Herbs

--Sliced fresh roma tomatoes with dainty dollops of mayonnaise

METHOD

Prepare charcoal grill for direct cooking.

Pat fillets dry with paper towels. Rub halibut fillets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper on all sides.  Fold a couple of paper towels and pour 1 tablespoon olive oil over them to moisten; use tongs to rub over grid of cooking grill.

Place halibut fillets over direct heat in the “10-o’clock position” on the grid, uncovered, for 3 minutes, and move to the “2 o’clock position” for 3 more minutes for the presentation side of fillets to make “X” grill marks.  Flip over fillets, cover, and continue grilling for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, until fillets are done when they flake easily with a fork.  Remove fillets from grill to a plate, tent with foil to rest for a couple of minutes for juices to redistribute.  Serve hot with prepared pineapple salsa, basmati rice n’ herbs, and sliced tomatoes. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tip:  Feel free to use the same method to alternately grill salmon, as it pairs nicely with the above-listed sides as well.

SANDRA’S QUICK AND TASTY CHICKEN FRIED STEAK

This recipe includes an egg dredge

spiked with Sriracha sauce that provides

an excellent flavor without being too spicy...

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

Cook Time: 10 to 14 Minutes

INGREDIENTS

2 (1” thick) steaks/fillets

--(of beef, venison, moose, buffalo, chicken, or turkey)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 eggs

½ teaspoon Sriracha (an Asian hot sauce)

¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon granulated garlic

½ teaspoon granulated onion

2 tablespoons olive oil

--Prepared potato salad

METHOD

Pound the steaks/fillets using the cuber edge of meat mallet to about ½” thickness (or we use our Cabela’s Manual Meat Cuber to do so that can be purchased online, so I used venison cubed steaks).

Place flour in a shallow bowl. Whisk together in a separate shallow bowl the eggs, sriracha, pepper, salt, and granulated garlic and onion.  Dredge each steak first in the flour, then in the egg dredge, and again in the flour. Pat the flour onto the surface of each steak so they are completely coated with dry flour.

Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet to medium-high heat.  Cook the steaks until evenly golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes per side, then serve with potato salad. ~ Enjoy!

Sandra's Best Potato Salad Recipe

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tips: I like to top my Chicken Fried Steak with A.1. Steak Sauce, while my husband prefers Ketchup, and these steaks are also wonderful drizzled with hot gravy and mashed potatoes as a side dish.

SANDRA’S KNOCKWURST, POTATO N’ CABBAGE DINNER with a MUSTARD DIPPING SAUCE

I used my brother in law Larry’s homemade ‘Venison Hot Smoky Knockwurst’ 
that absolutely made this an utmost-terrific dinner...

Flattering: Found on 3.15.14 my recipe featured at:
http://allyummyrecipes.com/15-cabbage-dishes/

Servings: (6)

Prep: 10 Mins.

Steam: 20 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Knockwurst, Potato N’ Cabbage:

1.5 lb. ring of knockwurst, sliced into ½” thick slices

4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1” cubes

½ head green cabbage, cut into 1-1/2” cubes

½ red onion, cut into ¾” cubes

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1-3/4 cups hot water

Mustard Dipping Sauce:

1 tablespoon grainy dijon mustard

2 teaspoons French’s mustard

3 tablespoons mayonnaise

--Serve dinner with prepared warm crusty bread slices rubbed with a fresh garlic clove

METHOD

In a 4-qt. heavy-bottom pot, layer half the potatoes, cabbage, onions, and knockwurst, and then repeat.  Drizzle pot contents with the red wine vinegar, and hot water. 

Cover pot, and place over high heat, and let steam for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the grainy mustard sauce by whisking all the ingredients in a small bowl.

Drain liquid from the pot, and serve the steamed knockwurst, potato and cabbage with the mustard dipping sauce alongside, including prepared warm crusty bread slices if you so choose. ~ Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tip:  Feel free to substitute less spicy smoky kielbasa or bratwurst in this recipe, or red or Yukon potatoes as well.  It is important to maintain the cut-sizes of the pot ingredients so all are steamed to perfection when done.

SANDRA’S JALAPENO POPPER QUESADILLA

This delicious and exquisite quesadilla

is guaranteed to ignite your appetite...

Servings: (1)

Prep: 5 Mins.

Cook: 6 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

¼ lb. extra-lean ground burger (beef, venison, moose, buffalo, or poultry)

1 tablespoon taco seasoning

2 tablespoons water

1 tablespoon cream cheese

½ tablespoon ranch dressing

1 tablespoon green onions, thinly sliced

3 slices jarred fire-roasted pickled jalapenos, roughly chopped

½ tomato chopped

½ teaspoon fresh cilantro

1 cup medium shredded cheddar cheese

1 (10”) flour tortilla

olive oil spray

Garnish:

1 tablespoon sour cream

Pinch of chopped fresh cilantro

1 tomato wedge

METHOD

In a small skillet, brown the burger (I used venison).  Add the taco seasoning and water and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

Spray one side of tortilla with olive oil, and flip over. 

Meanwhile, mix the cream cheese, ranch dressing, and green onions together in a small bowl.  Spread sauce (on the un-sprayed side) on half of the tortilla.  Top sauce with seasoned burger mixture, sprinkle with jalapenos, tomatoes, and shredded cheese.  Fold the tortilla in half, and cook in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until golden brown on each side, about 6 minutes total.  Slice quesadilla into four triangles, plate, and garnish with dollops of sour cream and a pinch of chopped cilantro, with a tomato wedge alongside. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S ALASKA GRILLED SALMON STEAKS with a CREAMY LIME MARINADE

A perfect way to barbecue fresh salmon
on a summer day...

Servings: (4)

Prep: 5 Mins. |
Marinade 15 Mins. |
Grill: 10 mins.


Posted by: Sandra

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 green onion, sliced
½ teaspoon dry rosemary
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
4 (1”) thick salmon steaks (if thicker, allow more cooking time)
1 lime, cut into wedges

METHOD:

Whisk together oil, lime juice, honey, yogurt, ginger, garlic, green onion, rosemary, salt and pepper in a shallow non-reactive dish. Add fish steaks and turn to coat with marinade. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes, but no longer than 30 minutes, (turning once after 7 minutes).

Preheat indoor grill to medium-high heat, or an outdoor grill. Oil a folded paper towel, hold it with tongs and rub it over the rack, or grill pan.

Coarsely grind pepper onto steaks. Place the steaks onto hot oiled grill rack, turning once at 5 minutes; continue cooking until the fish is opaque, and flakes easily with a fork, about 10 minutes total (discarding marinade). Serve immediately with lime wedges. - Enjoy all!

SANDRA’S ‘ANYTIME’ GARDEN OMELET

Oh what cheesy goodness!


This photo is featured 
@ http://lacucinaitaliana.org/paccheri-pesto-gamberi

Servings: (2)
Prep: 5 Mins. |
Cook: 10 Mins.

Posted by Sandra

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons butter, divided
2 green onions, finely chopped, divided
2 tablespoons red bell peppers, finely chopped
1 roma tomato, finely diced, divided
5 eggs
1 tablespoon milk
Pinch of garlic powder
Finely ground sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
3 to 4 tablespoons medium shredded cheddar cheese

METHOD

Melt one tablespoon butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Place half of the onion, all the bell pepper, and half the tomatoes in small skillet. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender. Remove from heat.

While the vegetables are cooking, whisk the eggs in a small bowl with the milk, garlic powder, sea salt and ground pepper, to taste.

Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter in a large non-stick skillet low heat. Add the egg mixture and cook for a couple of minutes, just until the eggs begin to set on the bottom of the pan. Gently lift the edges of the omelet with a spatula to let the uncooked part of the eggs flow toward the edges by swirling the skillet. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes or until the center of the omelet starts set.

Sprinkle the cheese over half side of omelet and spoon the cooked vegetables on top of the cheese section. Using a spatula gently loosen underneath of the omelet, and then fold one edge of omelet over the vegetables. Cover with tin foil and let the omelet cook for another two minutes, until the cheese melts and the omelet is fully set. Slide the omelet out of the skillet onto a cutting board; slice in half and serve on two serving plates by sprinkling remaining uncooked tomatoes and green onions on top as a garnish. – Enjoy!


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Tip: This omelet is wonderful with your favorite salsa, or hot sauce, basically it's great served any time of day.

MAX’S SCRUMPTIOUS VENISON TENDERLOIN STEAKS

Max says, "We are lucky to have these tenderloins
because they're usually eaten on the hunting trip 
and they rarely make it home!"

Servings: (2 – about 6 small steaks)
Prep: 5 Mins. |
Cook: 8 to 10 Mins. |
Stand: 5 Mins.

Posted: by Max via Sandra

INGREDIENTS

1 side of boneless venison tenderloin, cut evenly into 1-1/2” thick steaks
½ tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 egg, beaten
½ cup all-purpose flour
sea salt, ground pepper, and garlic powder, to taste

METHOD

Prepare the beaten egg in a shallow bowl. Place the flour in another shallow dish.

Dry off the 1-1/2" tenderloin steaks with paper towel, and dredge individually into the beaten egg, and then into the flour; pressing to evenly coat.

Heat the butter and oil (to prevent butter from burning) in a large non-stick skillet to medium-high heat. Place the steaks into skillet, not touching, and season each with sea salt, ground pepper, and garlic powder, to taste. Sear for 4 to 5 minutes without disturbing, and then flip and re-season, to taste. Continue searing this other side without disturbing for 4 to 5 more minutes. (Please do not overcook, or the tenderloin steaks will become tough and dry.) Remove steaks to a plate, and lightly tent with foil to let them stand for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.


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Tip: Max served this with sautéed pencil (thin) asparagus, and roasted ‘extra crispy’ ore-ida fries. – Enjoy!

SANDRA’S HEARTY SLOW-COOKER VENISON ROAST DINNER

This roast literally cuts with a fork, 
which I've shown in the photograph 
while lifting it up from the serving platter 
to cut into slices - it turns out 
moist and delicious every time...

Serves: (6)
Prep: 20 Mins. |
Slow Cooker: 8 Hrs.

Posted by Sandra

***Note: I take my venison roast out of the refrigerator 1 hour beforehand to come to room temperature prior to searing***

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon peanut oil
--(high smoke point, needed for searing); plus for brushing on roast
1 (3 lb.) venison roast (moose, or beef, buffalo, or pork)
2 large garlic cloves, cut lengthwise into quarters
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4" cubes
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 (15 oz. cans) diced tomatoes, with juices
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon dried sage
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dry mustard
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

-- Prepared steamed Basmati Rice

METHOD

Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dry the venison roast with paper towels. Using a paring knife, cut eight random slits into various areas of roast, and insert a slivers of garlic into each. Brush the roast with peanut oil (for seasoning to adhere), and sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground pepper, and sear in the piping hot skillet until golden brown on all sides, about 2 to 3 minutes at a time.

While the venison roast is searing, add the potatoes, and onions to the cold slow cooker. Put the seared venison roast on top of the them, and place the carrots and celery around roast, including adding the remaining ingredients directly on top of roast. Cover, and turn the slow cooker on high for 30 minutes, and then to low for 7.5 hours.

Remove the cooked venison roast to a serving platter, and spoon the vegetable/sauce mixture around it; serving with steamed rice along side. – Enjoy!