Categories
New Home

What do you need to make your dorm your home?

When you are leaving your home to make a new home in a dorm room, there are a few things you will need. What do you really need to make your dorm your new home? This post contains useful dorm items. A few items are not absolute needs, but would be very handy. This list does not contain any items that would be desirable, but not are not useful like decor.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn commission at no additional cost to you.

You need bedding – sleep is important

Most dorm rooms will supply you with an extra long twin bed. If you already have this type of bed at home, then you can just use you current bedding. The only problem with that idea is that you will not have any bedding when you return home for breaks. Therefore, it is best to pick up a new set of bedding for your dorm room. Here is a list of bedding essentials:

Dorm Bathroom Essentials

Hygiene is very important. The type of bathroom you have will determine what you need. If you have a traditional bathroom, a shared community bathroom down the hall, then this is the list of essentials:

If your dorm room is suite style, meaning you share a bathroom with a roommate or suite mate you will need the following items:

Find this college dorm medication list here.

Space Saving and Storage Essentials

What could be more useful in a small dorm space than space saving storage items? Here are some suggestions.

Space saving dorm shelf

Dorm room technology needs

I’m sure you have selected a laptop and maybe even a tablet to take with you. Here are some other tech items you may have forgotten. We forgot the cordless mouse batteries.

Dorm laundry essentials

College dorm school supplies

In elementary school and often in high school, teachers will supply students with a list of school supplies they will need for the upcoming year. Once you reach college, you are on your own. Since you are leaving home it does help to have a list of the most common school supply items you will need in college. Keep in mind, you may have last minute schedule changes.

We ended up forgetting more things in this category than any other category. The lab coat was not packed, but needed due to a last minute schedule change. It’s much cheaper to pack one, just incase. We also forgot the graphing calculator and extra batteries for it. The most ridiculous thing we forgot was #2 pencils. I mistakenly assumed they were old school, and no longer needed for testing. I was wrong.

Assuming you already have a laptop, this is a comprehensive list of the other school supplies most college students will require.

college school supply list

Dorm room food prep basics

Even if you have a full meal plan there may be times that you will need to prepare small meals in your room. You may have to leave for a break before the dining hall opens, or maybe return from a sporting event after the dining hall closes. Be prepared!

Other useful dorm room items

Medications and first aid items for dorm rooms

Be sure to check out Pharmacist recommended College dorm medications for a list of medications and first aid items you should pack for your dorm. Be prepared!

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Categories
Entertaining at home

How to make Spring Break Fun at Home

So all of your friends are going away for Spring Break, and you are staying home. Don’t despair, you can have just as much fun in your home town. Here are some great ideas for how to make spring break fun at home.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn commission at no additional cost to you.

In order to make Spring Break at home feel more like a vacation, you first have to think about things you would do on vacation and do them at home. Make your break like a staycation.

Try a new restaurant

family at restaurant
Photo by Pablo Merchán Montes on Unsplash

When I go on vacation, part of the fun is trying new foods. There are many restaurants in my hometown that I have never tried. Some even have unique foods or interesting themes. Look around, maybe you have a restaurant in or near your hometown that you have not tried.

Try it, You'll like it

Try a new recipe for dinner

Probably not something I would normally do on vacation, but staycation is different. Challenge yourself. Get out of you culinary comfort zone. Try a new recipe. Here are a couple of suggestions that are a little more challenging, but worth the effort:

Make a fun Spring dessert

flower pot cupcake

Flower pot cupcakes. Just put a chocolate cupcake covered with chocolate frosting and Oreo crumbs in a 2.5 inch terracotta pot. Top with berries, Oreo filling and mint leaves.

rice krispy bird nests

Rice Krispie Bird nests. Just make rice Krispie treats according to package directions (add one extra tablespoon of butter -total of 4 tablespoons). Instead of pressing the hot mixture in a pan, shape it into birds nests. Coat your hands with canola oil, shape into 2 inch balls then pinch into nests, just like making a pinch pot. (be carful the mix is hot!) Top with M&M eggs or robin eggs.

bunny pretzels

Bunny Pretzels are really easy to make. Start with pretzel snaps, top with a Hershey kiss, bake at 200 degrees for 5 min. Top with one flat and 2 sideways M&M candies.

Do a puzzle

puzzle

Find this Michigan puzzle here. Or find another state here.

If you are tired of your current puzzle selection, you could exchange it at a local puzzle exchange. Or get a new puzzle. Try this cute mini figure puzzle.

Play a new family game

Spring break means it’s finally warm enough to play outdoor games. Try Throw Throw Burrito Extreme! Find it here.

throw throw burrito extreme
throw throw burrito game

For more great family games ranged by age from preschool to adult, check out this post:

best family games to play by age

Plant something

What says Spring more than growing something? You can grow some lavender with this kit.

lavender grow kit

Plant your own herb garden. You can find a kit, or make your own. I used a cutlery caddy with 6 slots to make my own herb garden.

herb garden

Just pick up some potting soil, herb seeds and some clothes pins. All set! This will also make a great gift for mother’s day!

You can also start your herb seeds in a seed starter tray with a heat mat and a grow light. It’s best to use seed starter soil. I use popsicle sticks to identify my plants.

seed tray

Once your herbs have sprouted you can transplant them into pots with other vegetables.

herbs with tomatoes and peppers in a pot
salsa pot

Go to a Museum

kids at a museum
Photo by Mihai Surdu on Unsplash

This is a popular vacation activity. Have you been to every museum within 50 miles (~1 hour) of your home? Even if you have, museums are constantly adding new exhibits. Give it a try!

Family pizza night

This is great fun! Make or buy some pizza dough. Provide a selection of toppings and give each person a piece of parchment paper to assemble their own pizza.

family pizza night

Cut the parchment paper around each pizza and use a pizza peel to transfer it to a hot pizza stone on a grill or in the oven.

pizza on a grill

Go to a local candy store

candy store
Photo by Iwona Castiello d’Antonio on Unsplash

Enjoy your staycation like a kid in a candy store, literally! Have you ever noticed that touristy locations and hotel lobbies often have candy stores? Just like a vacation a candy store is a treat. Why not treat you kids to a visit to a local candy store?

Go to a Zoo or Aquarium

petting zoo

Are you tired of your local zoo? Could you make a day trip to another zoo? Try a new zoo or aquarium. You could even try a local petting zoo.

aquarium

Go out for ice cream

ice cream cone

What says vacation more than going out for ice cream. Better yet, try making your own ice cream. The Ninja Creami makes the best ice cream I’ve ever had.

Try a new activity

My home town and surrounding areas have plenty of interesting activities. Maybe your hometown does too. Try something new:

  • An escape room
  • A trampoline park
  • Amusement park
  • Water park
  • Arcade
  • Bowling
  • Curling
  • Ropes Course
  • Zip line
  • Rock climbing
  • Skating
  • indoor skydiving

Watch a Movie

Whether you choose to go to the theatre or watch a movie at home, this can be a fun activity. If you choose to stay home make it fun with a new popcorn maker or movie theater candy!

Visit your local Library

library
Photo by Trnava University on Unsplash

Pick up a new book at your local library to read over your break. If you don’t like to ready, maybe you can find another fun activity or event at the library.

Build a huge LEGO set

Your saving a lot of money by not going on trip, so maybe you could use some of your savings on a huge LEGO family project. It doesn’t have to be the Taj Mahal, but that set was really fun.

lego set
lego set

Try a New Park

fun park

Have you been to every park within 50 miles of your home? Maybe there is a park you have been wanting to try. If not, maybe you should. Sometimes these gems are found by accident, but you can also ask some friends for a suggestion. Maybe you will find a new favorite!

Have you driven by that new pickle ball court at your local park, thinking that looks fun? Pick up a couple paddles and some balls and find out!

pickle ball
Photo by Ben Hershey on Unsplash

Have a Big Breakfast

big breakfast

Weather you choose to go out for breakfast or make a big breakfast at home, it will feel more like a vacation. There is little time during a busy week to really enjoy breakfast. Why not use your break to make a fun breakfast. Here are some great breakfast ideas:

Do a craft

Crafts can be so much fun! Have you ever tried diamond painting? Find a kit here.

diamond painting kit

Diamond painting is really fun, but sticky mosaics would be a better craft for younger kids.

Try making your own soap. We made all of these cute soaps with a klutz kit.

homemade soap

Sleep in a different room

tent inside home
Photo by Kate Darmody on Unsplash

Part of being on vacation is sleeping in a new place. You can do this at home too. Let your kids sleepover in each others rooms for a night. You can even set up a tent in the living room and have a “campout” at home.

Make dinner over a fire

If your hometown allows bonfires, you can make dinner or at least some s’mores over the fire. If you cant have a regular firepit, try a patio firepit.

camp fire
smore

Have a Spa day or get a pedicure

pedicure
Photo by Konstantin Shmatov on Unsplash

Go get your hair done or enjoy a pedicure. There are also may spa at home kits you can purchase.

Take a class or get a lesson

golf lesson
  • Sewing
  • Pottery
  • Golf
  • Archery
  • Dancing

Try a new trail

Hiking with family

Hiking or biking are typical vacation activities. Why not try a new trail near your home?

Fly a kite

If all else fails, go fly a kite!

fly a kite
Photo by Belinda Fewings on Unsplash

More Family Fun Ideas

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Categories
Appetizers Recipes

Easy Deviled Egg Recipes for all Occasions

Deviled eggs are an easy and inexpensive appetizer. They are a great addition to parties and potlucks any time of year. They can be decorated for all occasions. Try mixing up the filling and garnishes to keep all of your guests happy. Here are some suggestions:

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn commission at no additional cost to you.

What tools do you need to make deviled eggs?

Classic Deviled Egg Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • paprika for garnish

Directions:

Hard boil the eggs, I recommend using this easy peel technique. Cool and peel the eggs. Slice the eggs in half with the non-serrated knife. It helps if you wipe the blade clean in between each egg. Remove the yolks and place the yolks in the mini food processor along with the mayonnaise, mustard, salt and pepper. Blend well. Remove the mixture from the food processor and place it into the piping bag. Cut off the tip of the bag and squeeze the mixture into the egg white halves. Garnish with paprika.

Dilly Bird Deviled Eggs Recipe

Dilly Bird Deviled eggs are a cute appetizer that adds fun to many occasions. Perfect for backyard BBQs, Potlucks, Baby Showers, classroom parties, and more.

Dilly Bird Deviled Eggs

Ingredients:

  • Classic Deviled egg recipe without paprika garnish
  • Fresh Dill
  • Orange pepper triangles
  • black or kalamata olive slices

Directions:

Prepare classic Deviled egg recipe. Omit the paprika garnish. Garnish instead with Fresh Dill “feather”, Olive “eyes”, and an orange pepper “beak”.

Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs Recipe

These smoked salmon deviled eggs are a nice delicacy for many occasions. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, office parties, Fridays during Lent, and more.

Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs

Ingredients:

  • 6 hard Boiled eggs – using this easy peel technique
  • 3 Tablespoons Mayonnase
  • 1 teaspoon capers
  • 1 teaspoon fresh dill
  • Smoked salmon for garnish
  • more capers for garnish
  • more fresh dill for garnish

Directions:

Cool and peel the eggs. Slice the eggs in half with the non-serrated knife. It helps if you wipe the blade clean in between each egg. Remove the yolks and place the yolks in the mini food processor along with the mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon capers and 1 teaspoon of fresh dill. Blend until smooth. Remove the mixture from the food processor and place it into the piping bag. Cut off the tip of the bag and squeeze the mixture into the egg white halves. Garnish with capers, smoked salmon and fresh dill.

Parisian Deviled Eggs Recipe

Parisian deviled eggs are like mini charcuterie boards. They are a great addition to any event you would bring a charcuterie board to.

Parisian Deviled eggs

Ingredients:

  • Classic Deviled Egg Recipe minus the paprika
  • Cornichon pickles
  • ham for garnish
  • salami for garnish

Directions:

Prepare the classic deviled eggs with the addition of 1 cornichon pickle in the yolk mixture. Blend until smooth. Omit the paprika garnish. Garnish instead with a slice of cornichon pickle, ham and salami.

Polish Deviled Egg Recipe

These Polish deviled eggs are an excellent addition to sporting events, office parties, and backyard BBQs.

Polish Deviled Eggs

Ingredients:

  • Classic Deviled eggs recipe
  • 1 Tablespoon of fresh grated horseradish
  • Smoked polish Kielbasa

Directions:

Prepare the classic deviled eggs recipe with the addition of 1 tablespoon of fresh grated horseradish in the yolk mixture. Alternatively you can use 1 tablespoon of prepared horseradish instead of one of the tablespoons of mayonnaise. Garnish with paprika and a slice of smoked kielbasa.

Buffalo Deviled Egg Recipe

Buffalo deviled eggs are perfect for a Super Bowl party, potluck or backyard BBQ.

buffalo deviled eggs

Ingredients:

  • 6 hard Boiled eggs – using this easy peel technique
  • 1.5 Tablespoons cream cheese – softened
  • 1.5 tablespoons blue cheese dressing
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • celery for garnish
  • green onions for garnish

Directions:

Cool and peel the eggs. Slice the eggs in half with the non-serrated knife. It helps if you wipe the blade clean in between each egg. Remove the yolks and place the yolks in the mini food processor along with the cream cheese, blue cheese dressing, and hot sauce. Blend well. Remove the mixture from the food processor and place it into the piping bag. Cut off the tip of the bag and squeeze the mixture into the egg white halves. Garnish with celery and green onion.

Bunny Deviled Eggs Recipe

These adorable bunny hard boiled eggs are perfect for an Easter celebration.

Bunny Deviled Eggs

Ingredients:

  • Classic Deviled egg recipe minus the paprika
  • Carrots cut into little triangles
  • red pepper cut into little squares
  • peppercorns
  • green onion ends or chives

Directions:

Prepare the classic deviled egg recipe. Omit the paprika garnish. Instead garnish with carrot “ears”, peppercorn “eyes”, red pepper “nose”, and green onion or chive “whiskers”.

Yoda Deviled Eggs Recipe

Yoda deviled eggs are great for any Star Wars themed party.

Yoda Deviled Eggs

Ingredients:

  • 6 hard Boiled eggs – using this easy peel technique
  • 1/2 Avocado, peeled and pitted
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • 1 garlic clove
  • salt to taste
  • peppercorns
  • celery, cut into triangles

Directions:

Cool and peel the eggs. Slice the eggs in half with the non-serrated knife. It helps if you wipe the blade clean in between each egg. Remove the yolks and place 3 of the 6 yolks in the mini food processor along with the avocado half, lime juice, garlic, and salt. Blend well. Remove the mixture from the food processor and place it into the piping bag. Cut off the tip of the bag and squeeze the mixture into the egg white halves. Garnish with peppercorn “eyes” and celery “ears”.

Halloween Deviled Eggs

Mummy Eggs

Ingredients:

  • Classic deviled egg recipe minus the paprika
  • Pepper corns
  • Munster or another white cheese sliced into strips

Directions:

Prepare the classic deviled egg recipe, omit the paprika garnish. Instead garnish with 2 peppercorn eyes and strips of Munster cheese slices. Any white cheese variety will work. You could use white cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella, or even string cheese.

Devil Deviled eggs

Ingredients:

  • Classic deviled egg recipe
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Red peppers sliced into horns

Directions:

Prepare the classic deviled egg recipe. Add 1 teaspoon of paprika to the filling, start with 1/2 teaspoon and add more until your filling is orange. Garnish with paprika and red pepper horns.

Pumpkin Deviled Eggs

Ingredients:

  • Classic devilled egg recipe
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • Green onion

Directions:

Prepare the classic deviled egg recipe. Add 1 teaspoon of paprika to the filling, start with 1/2 teaspoon and add more until your filling is orange. Omit the paprika garnish, instead add a green onion stem.

Spider Deviled Eggs

Ingredients:

  • Classic deviled egg recipe, minus the paprika
  • Black olives

Directions:

Prepare the classic deviled egg recipe. Omit the paprika garnish. Instead garnish with black olives. Use a half an olive for the body, and half circle slices for the legs.

Eyeball Deviled Eggs

Ingredients:

  • Classic deviled egg recipe
  • Black olives
  • Sriracha Sauce

Directions:

Prepare the classic deviled egg recipe. Omit the paprika garnish. Add an olive slice for the eye, then sprinkle some sriracha sauce for blood.

How to make Easy to Peel Hard Boiled Eggs

Check out this post for the secret to easy peel hard boiled eggs.

More Great Appetizers

Please tell us which recipe you would like to try!

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Categories
Breakfast recipes Recipes

Easy to Peel Hard Boiled Eggs

Turns out that easy to peel hard boiled eggs are not boiled! Instead they are steamed. Who knew! All of those useless additives to the water, unusual cooking times, and silly contraptions are rubbish! All you need to do is steam the eggs instead! Here’s how:

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn commission at no additional cost to you.

What do you need to make eggs easy to peel?

  • 12 eggs
  • A pot with a lid. The pot should be large enough to lay the eggs flat across the bottom. A 4.8 quart Dutch oven should be large enough for 12 eggs.
  • A steamer insert for your pot.
  • A large bowl
  • Water and Ice

How to make hard boiled eggs easy to peel

Add 1-1.5 inches of water to the bottom of your pot.

pot with water

Add your steamer insert. Make sure the water level is below the insert.

pot with steamer insert

Cover, and bring the water to a boil.

heated, covered pot with steamer insert

Add the eggs and steam for 14 minutes.

eggs in a pot

Remove the eggs and immediately place them in a bowl of water and ice for 15 minutes.

cooling eggs in an ice bath

Now for the easy part! Remove the eggs from the ice water and peel.

easy peel hard boiled egg

What can you use easy peel hard boiled eggs for?

deviled eggs

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Categories
Healthy Recipes Recipes Soups

Easy Cream of Broccoli Soup

This easy cream of broccoli soup recipe is a great way to get more vegetables into your diet. It pairs well with a salad or sandwich for a quick and easy meal. This soup makes great leftovers for packed lunches.

This post may contain affiliate links. I ear commission of qualified purchase at no additional cost to you.

What special tools do you need to make this soup?

  1. Immersion blender
  2. Large Pot
  3. Chef’s Knife
  4. Cutting Board
  5. Can opener
Easy Cream or broccoli Soup with a sandwich

Cream of Broccoli Soup Ingredients:

  • 2 Tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 Medium Onion, diced
  • 1 Pound Broccoli
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 1 15-ounce can of peas, drained
  • 5 celery sticks, diced
  • 1 quart vegetable broth
  • 1 Tablespoon golden balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Broccoli Soup Directions:

Sauté the onions and celery in the olive oil until slightly softened. Then, add the garlic and continue to sauté for another minute. Toss in the broccoli and sauté a couple minutes until slightly softened. Finally, add the broth and canned peas. Bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 minutes.

Use an Immersion blender to cream the ingredients until smooth. Stir in the cream, vinegar and peeper.

Nessie serving cream of broccoli soup

If you need some extra cute in your life, this Nessie Ladle is a great addition to get kids more interested in eating this delicious and healthy soup. Our Nessie served up so much soup, we hardly had any leftover!

Recipe By Kristin
Course: Soup Cusine:American Difficulty:Easy

Servings

6 minutes

Preparing Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

15 minutes

Calories

kcal

INGREDIENTS

  1. 2 Tablespoon Olive Oil

  2. 1 medium onion, diced

  3. 1 pound broccoli

  4. 3 cloves garlic

  5. 1 15-ounce can of peas, drained

  6. 5 celery stalks, diced

  7. 1 cup heavy cream

  8. 1 quart vegetable broth

  9. 1 tablespoon golden balsamic vinegar

  10. 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

DIRECTION

  1. Sauté the onions and celery in the olive oil until slightly softened.

  2. Add the garlic and continue to sauté for another minute.
  3. Toss in the broccoli and sauté a couple minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Finally, add the broth and canned peas. Bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 minutes.<br>
  5. Use an <a href="https://amzn.to/3wI765c">Immersion blender</a> to cream the ingredients until smooth. Stir in the cream, vinegar and peeper.

NOTES

    You can peel and slice the broccoli stems and add those too.

More soup recipes:

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Categories
Breakfast recipes Casseroles Recipes Traeger Recipes

Easy Breakfast Casserole – Smoked or Baked

After I tried this breakfast casserole, I stopped looking for another egg bake recipe. It is so easy and so versatile. It can be assembled the night before for easy morning baking. This casserole can be baked it in an oven or smoked on a pellet grill. Use this casserole to feed a crowd, or use it for leftover breakfast for a few days.

Follow The Better Home Life:

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Breakfast Casserole Ingredients:

  • 10 eggs
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 2 cups diced cooked or smoked ham
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup minced onion
  • 1 dash of Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
Smoked ham

For best results used leftover smoked ham!

How to make easy breakfast casserole

Crack all of the eggs in a mixing bowl, whisk lightly. Add the milk, whisk again. Mix in remaining ingredients.

Egg bake ingredients mixed in a bowl

Pour into a greased 9×13 inch Pyrex baking dish.

Egg Casserole ready to bake or smoke

Preheat oven or Traeger to 350 degrees F. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes or until the eggs are set.

Egg Casserole

Can you use Pyrex on a pellet grill?

Pyrex is rated to 425 degrees, but I never go higher than 400 degrees when I use a 9×13 inch Pyrex baking dish on my Traeger Silverton 620 because the temperature does fluctuate + or – 10 degrees. It is also important to make sure you keep you grill clean to avoid flare ups from grease fires.

Can you prepare breakfast casserole the night before?

Yes, this recipe can be prepared the night before. Overnight directions: After you pour ingredients into the greased 9×13 inch Pyrex baking dish, place the lid on the dish and store the prepared/unbaked casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Remove it from the refrigerator in the morning, remove the lid and bake or smoke it. Note this may increase the baking time slightly.

How do you reheat egg bake?

This casserole can make mornings easier because it makes great leftovers. Just cut a piece, put it on a microwave safe plate, cover, and microwave for 45 -60 seconds. Easy breakfast in 1 minute or less!

Optional Variations

Swap out the ham for 1 pound of browned bulk breakfast sausage or chorizo. Drain the sausage and allow it to cook for 5-10 minutes before mixing it into the eggs.

Swap out the onions for peppers, spinach or mushrooms!

Swap out the cheddar cheese for any cheese you like! If you try goat cheese, I would recommend slicing it on top, rather than mixing it in.

Get creative!

Egg casserole with chorizo sausage and goat cheese
Egg casserole with chorizo sausage and goat cheese

Recipe By Kristin
Course: Breakfast Cusine:American Difficulty:Easy

Servings

15 minutes

Preparing Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

35 minutes

Calories

kcal

INGREDIENTS

  1. 10 Eggs

  2. 2 cups cubed cooked or smoked ham

  3. 2 cups cooked rice

  4. 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  5. 1 cup milk

  6. 1/2 cup minced onion

  7. 1 dash Worcestershire sauce (optional)

  8. 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

DIRECTION

  1. Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl and lightly whisk.

  2. Add the milk and lightly whisk.
  3. Mix in remaining ingredients.
  4. Pour into a greased 9 x 13 inch Pyrex baking dish.
  5. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees F. for 35-40 minutes, or until eggs are set.

NOTES

More Recipes:

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Categories
Healthy Home

How to sneak more fruits and vegetables into your diet.

Are you trying to eat more healthy food? Fruits and vegetables pretty much top the list for health benefits, when paired with other healthy food groups. There are many ways to sneak more fruits and vegetables into your diet. Here are some suggestions for how to eat more fruits and vegetables:

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Add more fruits and Vegetables to your favorite recipes

Problem: Your favorite recipes don’t have many fruits and vegetables.

Solution: Take your favorite recipe and add more vegetables or fruit. Start with a small amount, like 3 carrots instead of 2. I do this all the time. For example, try comparing my Italian Mac & cheese with Rachel Ray’s. Mine has more vegetables, and it is better! I dare you to add an extra half cup of shredded carrots to my morning glory muffins! You will get another muffin and they will have more vegetables! I know this because I have tried it. Try adding a 1/2 cup of blueberries to your favorite banana bread or lemon bread. Be brave! It’s fun!

Make fruits and vegetables more convenient

Problem: If you need a quick snack, it’s much easier to grab a cheese stick or a handful of pretzels than to chop up some vegetables or peel an orange.

Solution: Prepare a container of sliced vegetables. Keep it in the refrigerator, along with your favorite dip or hummus. This way you can easily pull out the tray to have a quick and easy snack. Slice up the vegetables on the weekend, when you have more time. Many vegetables will last a whole week this way, if stored in the right container. The same strategy works well for fruit. Simply having the fruit peeled, sliced, and ready to eat will make it easier to consume when you are in a hurry.

Note: I recommend storing cucumber slices separate from other vegetables, since they will not last as long. Slice fresh cucumber slices every 2-3 days.

Eat more vegetables by making them convienient

Keep fruits and vegetables where you can see them

Problem: If you keep all of your fruits and vegetables in the crisper drawer in your refrigerator, they can get lost and forgotten. Out of sight, out of mind.

Solution: Many fruits and vegetables can be stored on the counter for a few days. It’s best to store fruits and vegetables in a wide, flat fruit bowl with holes for better air circulation. This type of design will help your fruit last longer. Although, the goal would be to eat it quickly so you don’t have to worry about self life. If you buy a bag of oranges or apples, put 2 in the fruit bowl and store the rest in the refrigerator. Keep refilling the fruit bowl throughout the week. Some fruits and vegetables should be stored outside of the refrigerator. Bananas and tomatoes prefer the counter. Keep them where you can see them. Also, be sure to haul out that fruit or vegetable tray during premium after school or after work snack time!

Make salad prep easier

Problem: Salads are delicious, but they are time consuming to make. It’s easier to buy lunch than pack lunch.

Solution: Lettuce is the most difficult part of the salad. Some types of lettuce do not last as long as other varieties. Iceberg lettuce will not last long once washed. Meanwhile, washed romaine can last a week if washed, patted dry and placed in a gallon Ziplock bag with a paper towel. If you prefer Iceberg lettuce because of the crunch, add some chopped cabbage to your romaine.

Alternatively, you can purchase baby spinach, mixed greens, or other lettuce that is ready to eat.

Use the washed lettuce and the already sliced vegetables from your tray to make a quick and easy salad anytime.

Try to eat a new fruit or vegetable

Problem: You need to eat more fruits and vegetables, but you really don’t like very many.

Solution: Try a new fruit or vegetable, maybe you will like it.

Try it, You'll like it

Try it, you’ll like it was a silly song on Yo, Gabba, Gabba. My kids used to watch it when they were younger. I would sing it when I wanted them to try a new food. As a parent you may feel like this strategy does not work. Don’t give up! It will work eventually! It took about 17 years for my son to eat asparagus. We always encouraged it, but never forced it. One day he ordered it at a restaurant. I was thrilled!

This method works for adults too. I used to dislike mushrooms and olives, but i kept trying them, now I like them. Try it, You’ll like it!

Try a new fruit or vegetable

Try different cooking methods

For example, if you don’t like boiled or steamed brussels sprouts, you might like them roasted. They taste totally different.

Some cooking methods can increase the nutritional value of certain vegetables, others can decrease the nutritional value. When you are mainly concerned with increasing your overall consumption, it’s best to focus more on which method will encourage you to eat more, rather than concerning yourself with which way is best. Any way you choose to eat more vegetables is healthier than not eating them. Bottom line, feel free to experiment with many cooking methods with many vegetables. Find what you like!

Boiled Vegetables

This is the most common, yet least desirable way to cook vegetables. They end up soggy and not very appetizing. If this is the only method you use, try one of the other suggestions. If it’s your preferred method, use it!

Steamed Vegetables

Steaming vegetables gives a little better flavor, texture and color than boiling. All you need is a steamer insert and a pot with a lid. Just add some water to the bottom of the pot, place the insert inside and put you vegetable of choice on top, cover and steam the vegetables to desired firmness.

Roasted Vegetables

Many vegetables are very tasty roasted. Brussels Sprouts are my favorite! Sweet potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots are awesome roasted! Just place them on a sheet pan, coat with olive oil, season as desired and roast in the oven at 400 degrees F for 25-30 minutes.

Roasted brussels sprouts recipe

Grilled Vegetables

Choose a tasty marinade, then place your vegetable of choice on kabobs, in a grilling basket, or wrap in aluminum foil and grill to desired firmness.

grilled vegetables

Smoked Vegetables

Vegetables can be smoked! Smoke low and slow to maintain some crispness with a nice smoky favor.

Smoked Asparagus recipe

Vegetable Stir Fry

This is a great way to cook vegetables. Traditionally stir fry is done on a large grill or in a wok. Start with some stir fry oil , add the carrots and cauliflower first, fry for a couple minutes. Then add broccoli and snow peas, add more oil and some soy sauce to coat. Fry for a couple more minutes. Add bell peppers, onions and a few drops of sesame oil. Continue to fry for a couple more minutes. Add minced garlic, canned bamboo shoots, canned water chestnuts, and sesame seeds. Continue to fry until all vegetables are warm and slightly softened.

stir fry

Pressure cooked vegetables

Many vegetables can be pressure cooked faster than roasted. One of my favorites is pressure cooked beets. I use a Ninja Foodi. Just place the washed beets in the Ninja Foodi, add 1 cup of water. Close and pressure cook on high for 15-20 minutes with quick release. Peel and slice the beets!

Pressure cooked Chioggia beets
Pressure cooked Chioggia beets

Go meatless one day per week to eat more vegetables

Meatless Monday is gaining popularity. Some Catholics go meatless on Fridays. Whatever your reason, if it helps increase your consumption of healthy fruits and vegetables it’s worth a try. Here are a couple of great meatless recipes:

Caribbean rice
Pumpkin soup

Puree your fruits and vegetables

Problem: You don’t like the texture of fruits or vegetables.

Solution: Puree them! Make a smoothie or a pureed soup! Soups and smoothies are a great way to eat more fruits and vegetables. Check out this post for more great smoothie ideas:

Smoothie vs. smoothie bowl infographic

Try a cream soup:

Try a New way of preserving your fruits and vegetables

There are many different ways to preserve fruits and vegetables. Each will give your produce a new flavor and texture. These methods are worth a try to give you some more variety.

Canned fruits and vegetables

Canning is quite a project, but it is worth a try. If you are interested in canning, I recommend the this book. Canned fruits and vegetables have a different flavor and texture than fresh or frozen. Some people prefer it, if you like canned fruits and vegetables better, then canning it is a good way to eat more of them.

Fermented vegetables

Try it, You’ll like it! Fermented cabbage is sauerkraut. It is a very healthy way to enjoy cabbage. Here is a recipe for homemade Sauerkraut.

Homemade sauerkraut

Pickle your vegetables

Pickling isn’t just for cucumbers, aka pickles. You can pickle many vegetables: beets, peas, beans, asparagus, and more. Give it a try.

Fill half your plate with vegetables

Problem: You need to eat more vegetables.

Solution: Put more on your plate! It really is that simple.

Pork Schnitzel served with roasted vegetables
Pork Schnitzel served with roasted vegetables

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Categories
Healthy Recipes Recipes Sides

Make Your Own Sauerkraut: Red or Green

If you love sauerkraut, you will really love it if you make your own. It’s so easy, just 2 ingredients. It’s better to make your own because you can choose how sour you want it to be, which color cabbage you want to use and any additional flavors you want to add. Red cabbage sauerkraut adds a lot of color to your recipes. Any additional flavors are up to you! It’s your sauerkraut, make it the way you want it.

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What tools do you need to make sauerkraut?

  • Kitchen Scale – The ingredients for sauerkraut are most accurately measured by weight. Since fermentation is a scientific process, it’s best to measure accurately. Choose one that converts from grams to ounces. Find a good one here.
  • Fermentation kit – Although not absolutely necessary, a fermentation kit will make the process easier. I love this set, it is compatible with any size wide mouth canning jar.
  • Quart size wide mouth canning jars – These jars are the perfect size for fermenting 1 pound of cabbage at a time. They are also compatible with my preferred fermentation lids. The wide mouth is large enough to fit a jam jar to hold down the cabbage.
  • Sauerkraut Pounder – A wooden tool used to press the cabbage down into the brine.
  • Jam jars – These 8 ounce jam jars fit perfectly inside the quart size canning jars. They are used to hold down the cabbage while it ferments. Alternatively, you could use weights for this purpose.
  • 8″ Chef’s knife – An 8″ chef’s knife is the best knife for slicing large vegetables like a full head of cabbage. I honestly don’t know how a kitchen could function without at least one 8″ chef’s knife. Find one here.
  • Cutting Board – Choose wood or plastic, never glass. Make sure it is large enough to slice a head of cabbage.

Homemade Sauerkraut Ingredients:

1 pound red or green cabbage -chopped or shredded

9 grams (~1.5 tablespoons) kosher salt or sea salt (not iodized- no anticaking ingredients)

Great Sauerkraut additions:

For extra flavor, you can add any of these to your homemade sauerkraut. This is anther reason why it is so much better to make your own sauerkraut.

  • Caraway seeds
  • Juniper berries
  • Shredded carrots or beets (80% cabbage/20% beets or carrots – otherwise the sugar from the beets or carrots can affect the fermentation)
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Lemon peel
  • Fresh dill

How to prepare cabbage to make sauerkraut

Slice the cabbage in half with an 8″ Chef’s knife.

Cabbage cut in half
cabbage with core removed
red cabbage with core removed

Remove the core.

chopped cabbage

Chop the cabbage any way you like, it’s your sauerkraut! I prefer to dice the cabbage into 1/4 to 1/2 inch squares. This makes the perfect bite size pieces, easy for adding to sandwiches or sausages.

How to make Your Own Sauerkraut:

adding salt to cabbage

Weigh your chopped cabbage on a Kitchen Scale. Put the diced cabbage in a bowl, then add 1.5 teaspoons of kosher salt per pound of cabbage.

squeezing juice from green cabbage
squeezing juice from cabbage

With clean hands, press and squeeze the cabbage until it is very wet. You should be able to see the water dripping down when you squeeze it. This will take a few minutes.

cabbage in quart size canning jars

Transfer the wet cabbage and all of the juice “brine” into Quart size wide mouth canning jars.

press cabbage down into jar

Use a Sauerkraut Pounder to press the cabbage down into the brine. The cabbage should all be completely submerged in brine.

add jam jars to hold cabbage down

Place the jam jars, or fermentation weights inside the quart size jars to hold the cabbage down in the brine.

jars with fermenting lids

Screw on the fermentation lids. Let the jars sit on the counter out of direct sunlight for 1-6 weeks. I usually date the jars. The ideal temperature for fermentation is between 60-70 degrees F. After a couple of days you will begin to see bubbles forming in the jars. This is the fermentation taking place. Check for desired sourness after 7 days. Continue checking every couple days or at least weekly after that. Once you have your desired sourness, put an airtight cap on it, and place it in the refrigerator. The fermentation lids I used have an air tight seal that can be closed when the fermentation vent is removed.

Is Sauerkraut Healthy?

Yes! Cabbage alone is very healthy. It is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K. Cabbage is also good for you because it is a great low calorie high fiber food. Fermentation adds the benefit of probiotics which are good for gut health. Sauerkraut has many health benefits, it is anti-inflammatory, a great anti-oxidant, and may even protect against cancer. Some people experience upset stomach or diarrhea from eating sauerkraut. If you are new to sauerkraut it would be best to start with a small serving, you can increase your serving size when your body adjusts to it.

Recipe By Kristin
Course: Condiment Cusine:German Difficulty:Easy

Servings

20 minutes

Preparing Time

30 minutes

Cooking Time

minutes

Calories

6 kcal

INGREDIENTS

  1. 1 pound Cabbage

  2. 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt

DIRECTION

  1. Chop the cabbage.

  2. Add the salt.
  3. Mash and squeeze the cabbage until it is very wet and water drops form when squeezed. 2-5 minuets.
  4. Press the cabbage into a wide mouth quart size canning jar with a sauerkraut pounder.
  5. Hold the cabbage down in the brine with fermentation weights or jam jars.
  6. Place a fermentation lid on the jar.
  7. Leave on the counter out of direct sunlight, between 60-70 degrees F for 1-6 weeks. Check weekly for desired sourness.

NOTES

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Categories
Easy meals Recipes Soups

Quick and Easy Chili

Sometimes even those of us who enjoy cooking just don’t have time to cook. Sometimes we need to get dinner on the table as quick and painless as possible. If you ever have a busy day and need a quick and easy dinner, this chili recipe is for you. This is not an award winning recipe, but it wins many compliments at my house and makes great leftovers for packed lunches.

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Quick and Easy Chili Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 4 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
  • 2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 15.5-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 15.5-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 15.5-ounce can chili beans, with sauce
  • 1 large onion, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

How to prepare quick and easy chili

Start by browning the ground beef. Once it is fully cooked, drain it and set it aside. Next sauté the onion in the olive oil. When the onion is softened, add the tomato sauce and mix well. Add the drained meat, beans and diced tomatoes, mix well. Add the remaining ingredients and mix until well combined. Continue to heat until warm and bubbly. Taste and add additional seasoning if desired. Simmer on low for about 20 min.

Garnish with cheese and chopped onion if desired.

Serve with crackers or fresh bread.

easy chili with bread

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Categories
Breakfast recipes Desserts Recipes

Easy Morning Glory Muffins Recipe

These morning glory muffins are a favorite in my home. It’s best to make them on the weekend, that way you will have easy breakfast all week. They are loaded with heathy ingredients. Plenty of nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables to start your day out right.

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Morning Glory Muffin Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Craisins
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups carrots, peeled and grated
  • 2 medium apples, cored and grated
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 3/4 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/3 cup pumpkin or sunflower seeds
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2/3 cup vegetable or canola oil
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup orange juice or juice of one orange

Morning glory muffin instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease three 6-cup muffin tins.

In a small bowl soak the craisins in hot water. Set aside.

Grate the carrots and apples in a food processor.

In a large bowl mix the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, salt and seasonings. Then stir in carrots, apples, coconut, nuts, and seeds.

In a separate bowl beat together the wet ingredients: eggs, oil, juice, and vanilla.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mixt until well combined.

Drain the water from the craisins and stir them in.

Morning glory batter

Fill the muffin cups all the way to the top. You should be able to fill 12-16 cups.

Filling muffin cups with morning glory batter

Bake for 25-28 minutes or until a fork comes out clear.

Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes, then finish cooling on a cooling rack.

Morning glory muffins baked

Store in an airtight container for a few days, or freeze for longer storage.

Morning glory muffins make a great breakfast

Morning glory muffin served with yogurt and fruit

Recipe By Kristin
Course: breakfast Cusine:American Difficulty:Easy

Servings

14 minutes

Preparing Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

25 minutes

Calories

kcal

INGREDIENTS

  1. 1 cup Craisins

  2. 2 cups flour

  3. 1 cup packed light brown sugar

  4. 1 teaspoon baking soda

  5. 2 teaspoons cinnamon

  6. 1/2 teaspoon ginger

  7. 1/2 teaspoon salt

  8. 2 cups carrots, peeled and grated

  9. 2 medium apples, cored and grated

  10. 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

  11. 3/4 cup chopped pecans

  12. 1/3 cup pumpkin or sunflower seeds

  13. 3 large eggs

  14. 2/3 cup vegetable or canola oil

  15. 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

  16. 1/4 cup orange juice or juice of one orange

DIRECTION

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease three 6-cup muffin tins.

  2. In a small bowl soak the craisins in hot water. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl mix the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, salt and seasonings. Then stir in carrots, apples, coconut, nuts, and seeds.
  4. In a separate bowl beat together the wet ingredients: eggs, oil, juice, and vanilla.
  5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mixt until well combined.
  6. Drain the water from the craisins and stir them in.
  7. Fill the muffin cups all the way to the top. You should be able to fill 12-16 cups.
  8. Bake for 25-28 minutes or until a fork comes out clear. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes, then finish cooling on a cooling rack. Store in an air tight container for a few days, or freeze for longer storage.

NOTES

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