Pasta e Ceci or pasta with beans, was considered a "poor man's meal" in Italy as it combined simple, bountiful ingredients. To me, this dish was excellent, filling and packed with aromatic flavors. I REALLY wish I had made a double batch of this recipe, it was THAT good! Sadly I only got to taste a few spoonfuls since the entire batch was made to be split between my husband and daughter for their dinner since they would be working late this particular evening. I literally ... Read More about Pasta e Ceci (Ditalini with Chick Peas)
Caprese Flatbread
Caprese Flatbread made with tomatoes, fresh basil and Mozzarella is perfect when served as an appetizer, for lunch or dinner. One of my family's favorite places to dine out is Olive Garden. Mainly because there aren't many other mid-size, sit down restaurant choices around where we live, especially when it's usually a last minute decision. We love to try out new appetizers and this one for Caprese Flatbread is not only one of our favorites. However, it has since been removed from ... Read More about Caprese Flatbread
Tips for Picnicking Down the Shore
Summer is here so check out these helpful tips for picnicking down the shore including the basics, food and entertainment. As a young child, some of my fondest summer memories include my family renting a small efficiency in Point Pleasant Beach each summer on the Jersey Shore for a week where we would go deep sea fishing, lay on the pristine beaches with our picnic lunches and entertain ourselves with fun and games in the evening on the Point Pleasant Boardwalk. When I got older, my ... Read More about Tips for Picnicking Down the Shore
Crispy Ranch "Fried" Chicken
Chicken thighs soaked in ranch buttermilk dressing, dipped in flour and seasonings; then baked until a crispy, golden brown. If you love fried chicken, but can do without the excess oil, this recipe for Ranch Fried Chicken is for you. They're baked, not fried for a crispy, delicious coating with less fat. I have to say this chicken was really tasty and crispy and everyone loved it. I probably could have shaved off some extra calories and fat by removing the skin, but opted ... Read More about Crispy Ranch "Fried" Chicken
Pesto Chick Pea and Kaniwa Salad
Pesto Chick Pea and Kaniwa Salad is a light, flavorful grain salad made with fresh basil pesto, chick peas, and tomatoes. I'm back, did you miss me? I missed you! What a fun, jam packed week my family and I had while we were gone. This is our last getaway for the summer as next month already starts cheering season, so only day or weekend trips from here on out. My family and I headed south from NJ to FL and stopped to visit potential colleges along the way for my oldest to attend next ... Read More about Pesto Chick Pea and Kaniwa Salad
Tomato and Fresh Mozzarella Salad
Tomato and fresh Mozzarella tossed with basil, red onion, balsamic vinegar and Extra Virgin Olive Oil is one of our favorite classic salads. Tomato and Fresh Mozzarella Salad or Caprese Salad is so easy to make, yet the flavor is so distinct it's popular worldwide. It's one of my favorite flavor combinations and you will find several recipes utilizing these flavors. Some of them include Caprese Stuffed Chicken Roll Ups, Caprese Stacks with Pan Seared Prosciutto ... Read More about Tomato and Fresh Mozzarella Salad