SANDRA'S HOT ARTICHOKE-SPINACH DIP

My best recipe for this dip without a lot of frills
to let the artichoke and spinach flavors shine through...

Yield: 6-8 Servings

Prep: 10 Mins.

Bake: 25 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

8 oz. cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup sour cream

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 garlic clove, grated

2/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon freshly-ground pepper

1 (14 oz.-can) quartered artichoke hearts, drained, then chop each heart crosswise 4 times

6 oz. frozen spinach, thawed, then squeezed to drain excess liquid, and chopped finer

METHOD

Preheat oven to 350F. Spray a 9 x 9" baking dish with oil; set aside.

In a medium-size mixing bowl, stir together cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, parmesan, mozzarella, lemon juice, and pepper. Fold in artichokes and spinach.

Spread mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes.

Serve with Ritz and/or Club crackers, toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, bagel chips, pita chips, etc. ~ 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.

SANDRA'S HOT ALASKAN MOOSE TACO DIP and MINI-BISCUIT APPETIZER

I created this recipe after being inspired by several variations that I've had in the past.

Here's my 'Alaska Spin' on this delightful appetizer

--------

You are able to make it to your exact spiciness level versus my medium version ~

simply substitute milder salsa for a lighter dip

or hotter salsa for a dip with more zest...

Yields: 6 to 8 servings

Prep: 15 Mins.

Bake 23-25 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Dip:

1 lb extra-lean moose burger

1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic

1/4 teaspoon granulated onion

1 pkg. dry cheesy taco seasoning mix

2 cups medium salsa (from Costco)

1 cup Mexican-blend shredded cheese

1 cup shredded medium cheddar cheese

1 (4 oz. pkg.) cream cheese, cubed at room temperature

--2 green onions (both white and green parts), sliced

Atop dip/mini-biscuits:

1 pkg. Grand Biscuits, quartered and formed into balls

1 tablespoon melted butter

1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

1 teaspoon dry cilantro

Paprika

METHOD:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, while placing rack on lower 2/3'rds of oven, including placing a medium-size pan on the rack (you'll later be placing the cast iron skillet on this to catch potential drips).

Heat a seasoned, 10" medium-size cast iron skillet to medium high heat on the stovetop, then brown the burger with 1/4 teaspoon each of granulated garlic and granulated onion. After about 5 minutes of browning, add the cheesy taco seasoning and salsa, stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes.  Turn off heat and fold in the three cheeses, just until melted and combined. Sprinkle top-center of mixture with green onions.

While reserving 9, place remaining biscuit balls around the perimeter. Place the reserved 9; one in center, and other 8 around it (see above photo).

Melt in the microwave the butter in a ramekin with 1/2 teaspoon of granulated garlic for 30 seconds. Using a pastry brush to combine. Brush the butter mixture gently over all biscuit balls. Sprinkle biscuit balls with 1 teaspoon dry cilantro and some paprika.

Place cast iron skillet in the preheated oven atop the hot pizza pan and bake for 23-25 minutes, until all biscuits are golden brown. Let hot dip cool 5 minutes (so you don't burn yourself), then serve immediately family style. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S HOMEMADE PIZZAS from SCRATCH

A fantastic recipe for two 14" pizzas you are able to prepare
from beginning to end in 1-1/2 hours,
although an hour of that time is kicking back while the dough proofs...

Yield:2 (14-inch) pizzas

Prep: 20 min

Proof/Rest: 1st Proof = 1 Hr -- 2nd Rest = 10 Mins.

Bake: 12-14 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

Crust (makes two 14" pizzas):

3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon granulated sugar

1 envelope instant/rapid dry yeast = 2-1/4 tsps. (no need to pre-proof)

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1-1/2 cups water, 110 degrees

2 tablespoons olive oil

--Plus spray to oil bowl and top of ball, plus rolling surface/board

Toppings (divide each topping ingredient in 1/2 for each pizza):

1 (14-oz. jar) prepared Classico Pizza Sauce, divided

4 cups shredded whole-milk mozzarella, divided; plus more for sprinkling on top

1 (5-oz. pkg.) Applegate Naturals uncured pepperoni (3" rounds), cut into quarters, divided

METHOD

Combine the flour, sugar, yeast and kosher salt in the bowl of a stand mixer and combine. While the mixer is running, add the water and 2 tablespoons of the oil and beat until the dough forms into a ball. Add more flour if too wet or more water if too dry, but only 1 teaspoon increments at a time. Let machine knead dough ball around hook for 2 minutes.

Scrape dough into a large sprayed bowl. Knead a few times and form into a ball. Flip ball over, spray top of dough, including underside of bowl lid. Cover bowl, place in oven (with no heat) turning on just the appliance light. Let proof for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. Remove proofed dough from oven.

Preheat oven to 500 degrees, placing rack 1 level up from bottom rung. Spray and sprinkle two 14" round pizza pans lightly with corn meal; set aside.

Turn dough out onto a lightly sprayed surface (with oil), and divide into 2 equal sections. Cover balls of dough by turning the same empty bowl upside down over them, and let rest for 10 minutes.

Roll each ball out into two separate 14" crusts, place each on prepared pizza pan.

Top each crust with 1/2 pizza sauce, 1/2 shredded cheese, 1/2 of the quartered pepperoni, and finishing light sprinkling of more mozzarella cheese.

Bake, one at a time, in preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, letting each pizza rest 5 minutes prior to serving. ~ Enjoy!

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

Tip:

These are the topping ingredients I had on hand, but a multitude of other options would be tasty too, i.e., Canadian Bacon and Pineapple vs the Pepperoni, etc.

SANDRA'S ADDICTING MUSHROOM and JALAPENO POPPERS with BACON

A perfectly addicting 2-for-1 side dish/appetizer you're able to serve

 hot out of the oven or at room temperature.

Don't wait for game day to enjoy all such deliciousness...

Prep: 20 Mins.
Bake: 30 Mins.
Yields: (14 Mushrooms-7 Halved Jalapeno Poppers, with 1 jalapeno half being chopped to add to filling)

INGREDIENTS

14 medium fresh button mushrooms, stems removed; reserve stems
4 large (4" long) fresh jalapenos, stems removed, including half of the ribs and seeds after cutting in 1/2 lengthwise
--(Remove more or less ribs/seeds to your desired level of spiciness)
2 strips center-cut bacon, sliced into 1/2" pieces
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 (8 oz. tub) cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup medium shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
2 green onions (both green and white parts), finely sliced
1 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon dry Italian seasoned bread crumbs

METHOD

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place a rack over a foil-lined baking sheet, spray rack, and set aside.

Clean mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Carefully remove stems from mushrooms; set caps aside. Finely chop stems.

Cut stems from jalapenos, and toss. Remove half of the ribs and stems, more or less; set aside 7 halves.

Finely chop 1 half of a jalapeno, and set aside. [Remember to wash hands using hot water and soap!]

Place medium skillet over medium heat and saute' bacon pieces until slightly crisp and brown.

Add chopped mushroom stems and granulated garlic to skillet with the bacon, and continue sauteing for 2 additional minutes. Remove skillet from heat and set aside for mixture to cool.

Meanwhile, in medium bowl add the finely-chopped reserved jalapeno, cream-cheddar-parmesan cheeses, green onions, sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Add the cooled mixture from skillet, including drippings; mix to incorporate.

Using a teaspoon, generously fill mushroom caps. Fill jalapeno halves so they are level with sides of peppers. (See photo below.) Lightly sprinkle filled mushroom caps and jalapeno pepper halves with Italian seasoned bread crumbs.

Place filled mushroom caps and jalapeno peppers (with 'cut' jalapeno ends flush against each other to ensure filling remains intact during baking) on sprayed rack of prepared baking sheet.

Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, until tops are golden and mushrooms and jalapenos are hot but still crisp-tender (not mushy). ~ Enjoy!

Hot out of the oven...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tips: The beauty of this side dish/appetizer is that you can prepare the poppers well ahead of time, simply place in refrigerator until ready to bake.

Feel free to alternatively grill these poppers, just place the same baking rack (shown above) on top of barbecue grilling rack over indirect heat (using charcoal), covered, for the same amount of cooking time.

SANDRA'S TROPICAL BACON-WRAPPED JALAPENO POPPERS with PINEAPPLE

A tropical complexity of flavors 
that you'll simply adore...

Yields: (10 Poppers)

Prep: 10 mins. | 
Roast: 10 to 15 mins.

Posted: by Sandra

INGREDIENTS

***20 toothpicks, soaked for 30 minutes
***Latex gloves for preparing jalapenos

10 medium jalapeno peppers

--(All of similar size, about 3" long)

1 (8 oz. pkg.) cream cheese, at room temp.

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 (8 oz. can) pineapple tidbits, drained, and squeezed 
--(or crushed pineapple)

2 green onions, finely chopped

10 slices of quality bacon

--(I use Jerry's Meats double-smoked peppered bacon)

Dipping options:

--Store-bought ranch dressing; 
----(or, Sandra's Homemade Ranch Dressing); or

--Sour cream

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.  Prepare a baking sheet lined with foil, with a baking rack on top, and set aside.

Butterfly one side of the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds, ribs, and stems (without cutting through other side of jalapeno flesh - leave some seeds/stems in if you like them spicier).  Cut each piece of bacon in half crosswise. Mix cheeses together in a small bowl, along with the pineapple and green onions. Fill each jalapeno pepper half with cheese mixture. Wrap each jalapeno half with bacon and secure with soaked toothpicks, and place them cheese-filled side up on rack.

Roast poppers in the oven until the bacon is fully cooked, about 10 to 15 minutes (depending on how crispy you like your bacon, and how thick it is to begin with).  Let poppers cool slightly before serving, about 5 minutes.

Note:  You can serve the poppers with a ranch dressing or sour cream, although they're also great as is.

[Don't forget to wash your hands after handling hot peppers even if you used gloves.]

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

Tip: Cooking these on the grill is another great way to add even more smokiness to your jalapeno poppers.

SANDRA’S HOT DUNGENESS CRAB, ARTICHOKE and SPINACH DIP

A festive crowd-pleasing and year-round appetizer 
perfect for any occasion...

Serves: (4 to 6)

Prep: 10 Mins. | Bake: 20 Mins.

Posted: by Sandra

INGREDIENTS

4 oz. cream cheese, at room temp.

1 cup mayonnaise

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon lemon juice

fine-grain kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 cup cooked lump Dungeness crab meat

1 (6.5 oz. jar) marinated and quartered artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped

1 (9 oz. pkg.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed to drain (I chop it a bit more)

2 green onions, sliced

1 tablespoon jarred roasted bell peppers, chopped

1 teaspoon old bay seasoning

½ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon dried parsley

--Toasted baguette slices and/or assorted crackers

METHOD

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Spray a 1-quart casserole dish, and set aside.

Mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, cream, lemon juice, and kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, until combined. Fold in crab, artichokes, spinach, onions, roasted bell peppers, old bay seasoning, garlic powder, and kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

Spoon mixture into prepared casserole dish, while smoothing top.  Sprinkle with remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, and parsley

Cover and bake for 20 minutes, until cheese is melted.

Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, or assorted crackers. – Enjoy!

SANDRA’S DIVINE DEVILED EGGS

Deviled eggs in many variations 
are a must-have
holiday and get-together staple - 


(Within minutes after posting, 
this was featured
 @ http://flickriver.com
/photos/tags/bacon/; 
and a couple days later 
@ http://pinterest.com/amandalynnd/recipes/
amandalynnd/recipes/, 
and @  http://pinterest.com/
pin/271834527477972022/ -- Think it's the bacon ?? ;)

Yields: 24 halves

Prep: 30 Mins. | Cook 15 Mins.

INGREDIENTS:

1 doz. organic large eggs

¼ cup mayonnaise (more or less, to your desired moistness)

2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish

½ teaspoon yellow mustard

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice

fine-grain kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

***Garnish options:

paprika

freshly chopped parsley

2 strips of bacon, browned, and chopped into bits

METHOD:

Add the eggs to a medium saucepan, and cover with cold water so it is about 2 inches over the top of them.  Bring to boil over medium-high heat, and cook for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, brown the bacon in a medium skillet over medium-high heat, until crisp and brown.  Drain on a paper towel line plate.  Chop into bits, and set aside.

Drain the hot water from the eggs in pot, and fill with cold water to quickly cool them.  Once cooled, cut the eggs in half lengthwise.  Add the yolks to a medium bowl and smash with a fork.  Add the remaining ingredients and mix until smooth, except the garnish elements (paprika, parsley, and bacon bits).  Using a teaspoon, fill the egg white halves as shown in photograph.  Garnish each egg with the garnish elements in order listed.  Place egg halves on a decorative serving platter.  Enjoy!

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

Tip: Refrigerate any left-over deviled eggs in an airtight container.

SANDRA’S VENISON TEX-MEX CHILI with PREMIUM CORNBREAD MUFFINS

This is a Tex-Mex version using
some of their unique spices,
which adds to this a very
hearty and robust chili...

I found that my photo and recipe are featured @
http://pinterest.com/pin/121386152426146053/

Servings: (6)
Prep: 10 Mins. |
Cook: 50 Mins.

Posted: by Sandra at

INGREDIENTS

4 bacon strips, cut into 1/2 " slices
1 lb. lean venison burger
½ spanish onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz. can) stewed tomatoes
1 (14.5 oz. can) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (16 oz. can) chili beans, undrained
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
1 carrot, shredded
½ cup celery, chopped
½ red bell pepper, chopped
1 tablespoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (Or more if you like it spicier)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon unsweetened Hershey’s Cocoa Powder
½ tablespoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

***Toppings (Optional):
--Cheddar Cheese, shredded
--Jarred and sliced pickled jalapeno peppers

METHOD

Heat a dutch oven, or large heavy-bottom pot, to medium-high heat, and brown the bacon until crisp, and set aside, while reserving drippings. Add the venison burger and brown in drippings, and when it’s about ¾ the way cooked through, add the onions and saute just until translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the remaining ingredients, except the bacon and fresh cilantro, and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook, covered, while occasionally stirring for 50 minutes.

Premium Cornbread
Muffins

Meanwhile, begin preparing the Premium Cornbread Muffins about 20 minutes before Venison Tex-Mex Chili is scheduled to be done, if making...(as they take about 15 minutes to bake).

-- Premium Cornbread Muffins - For recipe, click here: Sandra's Premium Cornbread Muffins)


After the Venison Tex-Mex Chili has cooked for 50 minutes, stir in the fresh cilantro, and crispy bacon.

To serve, ladle the Venison Tex-Mex Chili into soup mugs placed in the center of a plate, and place Premium Cornbread Muffins around parameter. (Top the Venison Tex-Mex Chili with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced pickled jalapenos, if using). - Enjoy!

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

Tip:  This is just as fantastic using any other type of lean ground meat or poultry as well!

SANDRA'S CREAMY CLAM DIP with LIGHT RYE WASA CRACKERS

A very, very satisfying and tasty
clam dip that you're 
bound to adore...

Servings: (6 to 8)
Prep: 5 Mins. |
Stand time: 15 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

1 (8 oz.pkg.) cream cheese, at room temperature
½ cup sour cream
1 (6.5 oz. can) minced clams (I prefer Snows)
----drained (while reserving some juice depending upon desired consistency)
¼ teaspoon seasoning salt (I prefer Johnny’s Seasoning Salt)
¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon old bay seasoning
½ teaspoon worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ teaspoon paprika

--Garnish with 1 teaspoon freshly chopped Italian parsley

--1 pkg. of wasa light rye crackers (see photograph)

METHOD

Place cream cheese and sour cream in a medium bowl; whisking until smooth. Add the remaining ingredients, except parsley, and continue to whisk until combined. Cover and let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes for flavors to meld. Check consistency, adding more clam juice if desired, and place Clam Dip in a smaller decorative serving bowl, then sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.  Place in center of a large platter, and line outer parameter with light rye wasa crackers, including a few table knives for spreading Clam Dip on crackers. – Enjoy!

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

Tips: You can also make this into a crab dip by replacing 8 oz. of broken lump crab for the clams. Also, many people love to eat this Clam Dip with ruffle potato chips, and it gets tastier the next day.

SANDRA'S CRISPY CHILI-LIME FRIES with CHILI DIPPING SAUCE

A very quick and easy appetizer
or side dish to prepare
that packs a punch of flavor...

Servings: (3 to 4)
Prep: 2 Mins. |
Bake 8 to 10 Mins.

Posted by Sandra

INGREDIENTS

½ of a (20 oz. bag) of frozen Ore-Ida Crispers
1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet)
pinch of kosher salt
pinch of ground pepper
-- jarred chili sauce, for dipping (or, click here for: Homemade Chili Sauce)
-- a wedge of lime, to squeeze over fries before serving

METHOD

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil, spray with oil, and set aside. Prepare a serving platter with a small container of chili sauce for dipping in center, and set aside.

Place the fries in a medium bowl, and sprinkle with chili powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and ground pepper.

Place seasoned fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer so they are not touching, and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until crispy brown. Remove hot fries from oven and squeeze fresh lime juice over them, and immediately place on serving platter around the chili sauce while hot. – Enjoy.


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


Tip: If you like more lime flavor, feel free to sprinkle about ¼ teaspoon of fresh lime zest over them while hot as well as its juice.

SANDRA'S ALASKA BROILED BAY SCALLOPS with an ASIAN DIPPING SAUCE

The most succulently delicious appetizer...

Servings: (4)
Prep: 5 Mins. |
Broil: 4 to 6 Mins.

Posted by Sandra

INGREDIENTS

2 lbs. alaska bay scallops (if using larger sea scallops, increase cooking time)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon old bay seasoning
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 lemon, cut into 8 wedges, divided

METHOD

Preheat oven broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with oil, and set aside.

Rinse scallops, remove any cartilage, if present, and pat them dry with paper towels. Place scallops in a medium-sized bowl and sprinkle with garlic powder, old bay seasoning, melted butter, squeeze 4 wedges worth of juice over scallops, and toss to combine.

Place scallops on the prepared baking sheet, and broil for 4 to 6 minutes (depending on size of scallops); turning once, just until they start to turn golden brown (take special care not to over cook or they will be very tough).

Meanwhile, make the dipping sauce below.

Asian Dipping Sauce

Asian Dipping Sauce

¼ cup rice vinegar
1-1/2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
½ teaspoon dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, grated
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
pinch of red pepper flakes
1/3 cup olive oil


In a small bowl, whisk all the ingredients together, except the olive oil. Add olive oil in a slow and steady stream while whisking until sauce is emulsified. Can be refrigerated for up to one week.

Remove scallops from oven and serve on a nice platter, and place 4 remaining lemon wedges for squeezing along the perimeter, and the Asian Dipping Sauce in the center. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S TERRIFIC GRILLED FRESH CORN in the HUSK

My oh my, what a terrific
method in which to grill the
most flavorful and moist corn on the cob ever...

Serves: (4)

Prep Time: 10 mins. | Grill: 20 mins.
Posted: by Sandra

INGREDIENTS

4 ears corn, still in husk
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons honey
a pinch of kosher salt
a pinch of ground pepper
2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese

METHOD

Heat the grill to medium-high heat.

Peel corn down to the end, but do not remove the husk from the cob. Remove all the fine silk hairs between the corn and husk, and set aside (with husk still pulled down).

On a plate, whisk together the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic and onion powders, brown sugar, honey, kosher salt, and ground pepper. Roll the glaze on the ears of corn, and rub mixture onto corn with clean hands (it will warm the honey and ensure the spices adhere) and replace the husks.

On a medium-high grill place the corn, turning occasionally. Cook for 20 minutes, turning half way through cooking process. Once cooked, peel the charred husk away from the cob, and sprinkle lightly with parmesan cheese. – Enjoy!


~~~~~~~~~~


Tip:  If you do not have husks, just use double-thick tin foil and wrap the corn cobs after they have been seasoned, and grill, or bake in oven at 350 degrees for the same amount of time.

SANDRA’S BEST POTATO SALAD

When family and friends visit,
this is my most requested 
side dish of all time...

Servings (6 to 8)
Prep: 20 mins. |
Cook: 25 mins.

Posted by Sandra 

There are finite versions of potato salad recipes, i.e., some like it with dill versus sweet pickles, and so on, but this happens to be my favorite so I’d like to share it with you all.

INGREDIENTS

6 medium russet potatoes, whole/unpeeled (same size for even cooking)
6 eggs
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 cup celery, finely chopped
½ cup sweet gherkins, finely chopped (or sweet pickles)
3 tablespoons juice from sweet gherkins jar
1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
¼ teaspoon salad elegance
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon johnny’s seasoning salt
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons French’s mustard
2 cups mayonnaise (more or less to your desired moistness)

METHOD

Place 6 whole unpeeled potatoes in a large pot, and cover with cold water. Place on stove over high heat and bring to boil, reduce to medium-high heat and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, just until potatoes are tender in center when pierced with a paring knife or fork.

Meanwhile, during the same time, place all 6 eggs in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water, and place on stove over high heat and bring to boil. Reduce the heat to medium-high and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from stove and drain hot water. Refill pot with cold water to quickly cool the eggs.

Remove the potatoes from heat once done, and drain into colander. With tongs, place back into pot and run cold water over potatoes to quickly cool them. Once cooled, peel the potato skins using a butter knife, and cut into ½” cubes. Peel the eggs, and cut each into quarters, and then slice. Place all prepared potatoes and eggs into a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining ingredients and fold to combine. When serving you might choose to garnish with a light dusting of paprika and a sprig of fresh parsley. – Enjoy!

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


Tip: It’s difficult to wait, although I prefer to place the potato salad in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

SANDRA'S SMOKED SALMON STUFFED CHERRY TOMATO APPETIZER

A vibrant and flavor-popping appetizer, 
which provides a  great addition 
to any gathering...

Yields: (2-1/2 doz.)
Prep: 30 mins.

Posted: by Sandra

INGREDIENTS

--30 cherry tomatoes

***Salmon Mixture:
3 ozs. smoked salmon (or regular cooked salmon), finely chopped
1 green onion, finely sliced
1/3 cup red pepper, finely chopped
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon old bay seasoning
½ teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste

***Cream Cheese mixture:
1 (3 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, at room temperature
1 teaspoon milk

--garnish with fresh chives, chopped
--torn individual lettuce leaves (30 pieces total)

METHOD

Cut the top off of each cherry tomato, and use a melon ball scooper (or small spoon) to remove inner pulp, and discard. Place cherry tomatoes upside down on paper towels to drain. In a large bowl, combine the salmon, green onion, red pepper, spices, lemon juice and mayonnaise, mixing well. Spoon into tomatoes.

In a small bowl, beat with a hand mixer the cream cheese and milk until smooth. Insert a large star tip into a pastry (or plastic) bag. Pipe a small amount of cream cheese mixture over salmon mixture on top of tomatoes. Garnish with chopped chives, and place each tomato on individually torn lettuce leaves placed around serving platter. – Enjoy!

SANDRA'S TASTY TURKEY MEATBALLS with a SPICY DIPPING SAUCE

These are super tasty and moist meatballs 
- The perfect appetizer...

Yields: (30 Meatballs)

Posted by Sandra
Prep: 10 Mins. | Cook: 10 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

***Spicy Dipping Sauce
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (or your favorite hot sauce)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon paprika
kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste

***Turkey Meatballs
1 pound ground turkey (or chicken)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup sour cream
3 tablespoons italian seasoned bread crumbs
2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning blend
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 lemon, zested
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

METHOD

First, make the sauce in a small bowl by whisking together all of the ingredients until well combined, and set aside.

In a large bowl, begin making turkey meatballs by ‘gently’ mixing the ground turkey, garlic, beaten egg, sour cream, bread crumbs, worcestershire, cayenne pepper, onion powder, italian seasoning, brown sugar, lemon zest, kosher salt and a few grinds of pepper to taste in a bowl. Form into 1-1/2” meatballs, making 30 meatballs. Warm the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Transfer the meatballs to the pan and do not disturb for 3 to 5 minutes to lightly brown, (cook in batches if need be, so as not to overcrowd pan). Turn, cooking another 3 to 5 minutes on other side without disturbing. Keep cooking until browned and cooked on all sides, but still juicy and plump with a spring to the touch (do not overcook). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Serve on a platter with toothpicks for dipping into spicy sauce. ~ Enjoy!

SANDRA'S RANCH DRESSING or DIP - Homemade

Very, very easy to prepare,
and incredibly flavorful...

Yields: (1-1/2 cups)
Prep: 5 Mins.

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon fresh chives, minced
--(or 1/2 teaspoon dried chives )
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
pinch of sweet paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
--(+ a bit of milk if making a dressing)

METHOD:

In a large bowl, whisk together all the ingredients, and then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving for flavors to meld (imperative).

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

Tip: This recipe is thicker to use as a dip, so feel free to add a bit of milk for a thinner ‘dressing’ consistency.


If you'd like, you can serve this ranch dip with:

Sandra's Alaskan Beer
Battered Mushroomswith Gruyere;

or as a side with
Sandra's Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped
 Jalapeno Poppers;

or as a side with
Sandra's Buffalo
Pulled-Chicken Burgers

SANDRA'S HOT HAM and PARMESAN MINI FRITTATAS APPETIZER

A wonderful treat any time of day,
or at any function or gathering...

Yields: (about 20 mini frittatas)
Prep: 10 mins. |
Baking: 5 mins.

Posted by Sandra

INGREDIENTS:

4 eggs
1/4 cup milk
Ground pepper, to taste
¼ cup sliced smoked ham, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parmesan cheese, grated
1 green onion, finely sliced

METHOD:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Spray a mini muffin tins with nonstick spray.

Whisk the eggs, milk, and pepper in a medium-size bowl and blend well. Stir in the ham, cheese, and green onion. Fill prepared muffin cups almost to the top with the egg mixture. Bake until the frittatas puff up and are set in the center, about 8 to 10 minutes. Gently loosen frittatas from the muffin cups, and place them onto a platter. Serve immediately while warm. - Enjoy!

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

Tip: You can change this recipe up quite a bit by adding ½ slices of grape tomatoes on top, using different types of sliced meat/seafood/cheeses, and so on.

SANDRA'S SAVORY SHRIMP TARTLETS

Delicate tartlets - a crowd pleaser at gatherings...

Yields: (30)
Prep: 10 Mins.

Posted: by Sandra

INGREDIENTS:

30 frozen phyllo tartlet shells

***Filling
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1-1/2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoon grated onion
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 cup chili sauce (for a recipe click here:  Homemade Chili Sauce)
kosher salt and fresh ground pepper

***Topping
30 small cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; leaving tails intact

METHOD

Combine cream cheese, worcestershire sauce, grated onion, garlic powder, lemon juice, parsley, and chili sauce in a bowl. Add kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.

Spoon mixture evenly in each of the 30 tart shells. Top each shell with one shrimp. Refrigerate until ready to serve. ~ enjoy!


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


If using larger prawns, you might want to cut them in half horizontally, and then crosswise.

SANDRA'S HOT BUFFALO CHICKEN DIP - For a Crowd!

A very spicy appetizer that I love to serve
on game day with plenty of Alaskan Amber,
which accompanies this dish very nicely...

Servings: (12 to 16)
Prep: 30 mins. |
Bake 40 mins.

Posted: by Sandra

INGREDIENTS:
-4 Boneless skinless chicken breast, *poached and shredded (see below)
-16 oz. bottle hot sauce (I prefer Srirachas)
-2 green onions, chopped
-2 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese
-2 cups ranch dressing
-1/2 cup celery, chopped
-1 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
-1 cup monterrey jack, shredded

METHOD

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Poach the chicken (see below). Once chicken is done, spray a 9”x13” baking dish with oil, and combine shredded chicken, hot sauce, green onion, and celery, and then spread in bottom of baking dish to form an even layer.

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream cheese and ranch dressing, stirring until smooth and hot (do not boil), and then drizzle evenly over the chicken mixture.

Bake ‘uncovered’ for 20 minutes. Remove and add the shredded sharp cheddar and monterey cheeses and bake for another 20 minutes ‘uncovered’ just until bubbly (don't let the top get too browned or it changes its the flavor and hardens). Remove and let stand for 10 minutes.

I serve this with assorted tortilla and frito chips, and celery sticks.  Note:  This is awesome appetizer when reheated as well.

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

*---Poaching chicken:

Place chicken breasts in a pot large enough to form one layer, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add water so it covers the chicken by an inch. Bring to a boil, and then reduce heat to low so the chicken simmers. ‘Partially cover’ the pot. Continue cooking for 10 minutes; turn off the heat, and ‘cover pot completely’, leaving the chicken to finish cooking in the hot water for 15 more minutes. Remove chicken, and shred by pulling it apart with two forks.