Showing posts with label Recipe Article. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Recipe Article. Show all posts

Peach Dump Cake Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Peach Dump Cake Recipe


Peach Dump Cake Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Peach Dump Cake Recipe

Peach Dump Cake

This Peach Dump Cake couldn't be easier. It starts with a cake mix. Canned peaches and a cream cheese topping make this peach dump cake creamy and sweet.


Ingredients

* 1 yellow cake mix
* 1 cup vegetable oil
* 4 large eggs
* 1 3.5 oz. package instant vanilla pudding
* 1 cup water
* 1 26 oz. can sliced peaches, drained, reserving 3 Tbsp. of the syrup
* 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9 x 13 baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Beat cake mix, oil, eggs, pudding mix and water with an electric mixer until smooth. Pour into prepared pan.

3. Layer peaches on top of batter.

4. Beat cream cheese, sugar and 3 tablespoons of the reserved peach syrup with an electric mixer until smooth. Spread over peaches.

5. Bake 50-60 minutes.


Related : Peach Dump Cake Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Peach Dump Cake Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Vegetarian Chili Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Vegetarian Chili Recipe


Vegetarian Chili Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Vegetarian Chili Recipe

Vegetarian Chili

This Vegetarian Chili Recipe is a great make-ahead meal. Simply cook as directed, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container.

Serve this Vegetarian Chili with Cornbread and a Green Salad for a healthy, flavorful meal the whole family will enjoy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes


Ingredients

* 2 Tbsp. canola oil
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup diced carrots
* 1 large zucchini, diced
* 2 14 oz. cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
* 1 14 oz. can crushed tomatoes
* 1 14 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 14 oz. can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
* 2 Tbsp. chili powder
* 1 Tbsp. ground cumin
* 1 tsp. sugar


Preparation

1. Heat oil in a large, heavy saucepan or dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, and cook 1-2 minutes, until softened.

2. Add diced red pepper, garlic and carrots. Cook another 3-5 minutes. Add zucchini. Cook another 2 minutes or until vegetables are softened.

3. Add remaining ingredients. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until carrots are fork tender and flavors meld together, about 20 minutes.

4. Taste and adjust seasonings.


Related : Vegetarian Chili Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Vegetarian Chili Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Chili Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Chili Recipe


Chili Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Chili Recipe

Chili

This Chili Recipe is made with ground beef, several kinds of chili peppers and beans. Although this ground beef chili recipe calls for fresh tomatoes (which make it taste great), if tomatoes aren't in season, you can used canned tomatoes. Use a lean or extra lean (93% or 96%) ground beef for this chili recipe.

Serve this chili recipe topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream and diced onions. Add a side of Cornbread and you've got a great meal.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour, 60 minutes
Yield: 8 servings, chili



Ingredients

* 1 Tbsp. olive oil
* 1 large yellow onion, diced
* 1-1/2 lbs. lean or extra lean ground beef (preferably grass-fed beef)
* 1 poblano pepper, seeded and diced
* 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
* 2 stalks celery, diced
* 3 Tbsp. minced garlic
* 6 plum or roma tomatoes, seeded and diced or 2 14 oz. cans diced tomatoes
* 6 oz. tomato paste
* 1/2 cup apple cider
* 3 Tbsp. ancho chili powder
* 2 Tbsp. ground cumin
* 1 tsp. sugar
* kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
* 1 14 oz. can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
* 1arge handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)


Preparation

1. Heat oil in a dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add diced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions start to brown, 8-10 minutes.

2. Add ground beef, peppers, celery and garlic. Cook, stirring, until beef is browned.

3. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, apple cider, chili powder, cumin, sugar, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook 1 hour.

4. Add beans. Cook chili, uncovered, another 30-45 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings.

5. Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving chili.

Serve chili topped with sour cream, diced onions and shredded cheddar cheese.



Related : Chili Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Chili Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Waldorf Salad Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Waldorf Salad Recipe


Waldorf Salad Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Waldorf Salad Recipe

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf Salad is a wonderful combination of apples, celery, raisins and walnuts. But unlike traditional Waldorf Salad Recipe, this one doesn't have a mayonnaise-based dressing. Instead, vanilla yogurt and sour cream are combined for a sweet and tangy recipe for Waldorf salad the kids will love!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes


Ingredients:

* 2 medium red apples, diced
* 2 medium Granny smith apples, diced
* 1/2 cup chopped celery
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
* 1/2 cup raisins
* 1/2 cup low-fat sour cream
* 1/2 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
* 1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh mint
* 1/2 tsp. kosher salt


Preparation

Toss all ingredients in a bowl together until well-blended. Serve immediately or chill, covered, for up to 4 hours before serving.



Related : Waldorf Salad Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Waldorf Salad Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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BBQ Chicken Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

BBQ Chicken Recipe


BBQ Chicken Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

BBQ Chicken Recipe

BBQ Chicken

The challenge in making BBQ Chicken Recipe is preventing the outside of the chicken from burning before the inside is cooked through. This is traditionally solved by painting the barbecue sauce on the chicken at the end of cooking. But this recipe uses a different method: an electric skillet. The result is a tender, tasty BBQ chicken through and through.


Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes


Ingredients

* 1 tsp. oil
* 3 lbs. chicken pieces
* kosher salt and black pepper
* 16 oz. barbecue sauce
* 16 oz. orange soda


Preparation

1. Preheat an electric skillet to 275 degrees F. Add oil.

2. Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. When oil is hot, add chicken to the skillet. Brown for 2 minutes on the first side. Flip.

3. Add the barbecue sauce and orange soda.

4. Cook, basting occasionally, 35-40 minutes until chicken is cooked through.



Related : BBQ Chicken Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ BBQ Chicken Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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How to Make Lemonade

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How to Make Lemonade


How to Make Lemonade ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

How to Make Lemonade

How to Make Lemonade Step 1 - Gather the Ingredients for the Lemonade


Gather the Ingredients for the Lemonade
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Once you learn how to make lemonade with these easy instructions, you'll never go back to store-bought lemonade again.

The first step is gathering your ingredients for the Lemonade Recipe.

You will need:

* 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar

* 6 cups cold water, divided

* 5-8 lemons

In addition, you will need:

* a strainer

* reamer (optional)

* 1- or 2-cup liquid measuring cup

* pitcher





Make the Simple Syrup
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Pour the sugar and 1 cup of the water into a saucepan. Over medium heat, bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and stir until all the sugar has dissolved.

Now you have a simple syrup. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate while you juice the lemons.





Prepare the Lemons
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Roll the lemons to warm them and get the juices flowing. Cut in half.





Juice the Lemons
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Place a strainer over a liquid measuring cup. I like to use a 2-cup liquid measuring cup because the strainer fits easily over it.

Now juice the lemons over the strainer, allowing the liquid to flow into the measuring cup. Continue juicing until you have 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. You may need 5 lemons; you may need up to 8 lemons.




Combine the Lemon Juice and Simple Syrup
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Mix the refrigerated simple syrup and the remaining 5 cups of cold water. Add the fresh lemon juice. Mix well.



Enjoy Your Lemonade
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Enjoy your lemonade! For variety, try garnishing with fresh mint, fresh lemon slices or a fresh strawberry.



Related : How to Make Lemonade By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ How to Make Lemonade, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Simple Syrup Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Simple Syrup Recipe


Simple Syrup ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Simple Syrup Recipe

Simple Syrup

Simple Syrup requires only water and granulated syrup, and can easily be made in only a few minutes. It's a building block for cocktails or for nonalcoholic drinks, and can also be used to sweeten iced tea or coffee, or even to brush over cakes before frosting to keep them moist. You can even flavor simple syrup by steeping ingredients like vanilla beans, herbs or citrus peel in it. Simple syrup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup water

Preparation

1. In a small saucepan combine sugar and water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer and the sugar dissolves until the liquid is no longer cloudy and is perfectly clear, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, cool simple syrup completely before storing in the refrigerator.

This recipe for Simple Syrup makes about 1 1/2 cups.



Related : Simple Syrup Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Simple Syrup Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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How to Measure Flour

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

How to Measure Flour


How to Measure Flour ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

How to Measure Flour

Improper measuring is probably the number one reason recipes fail. Flour is crucial to the structure of baked goods; too much flour and your product will be tough and dry. Too little flour, and your product will collapse when it comes out of the oven, and have wet spots and dense layers.

To correctly Measure Flour, use a spoon to lightly scoop flour out of its container into a measuring cup. Continue until the cup is overflowing. Then use the back side of a knife to level off the flour even with the top edge of the measuring cup. Repeat as necessary, with 1 cup, 1/2 cup, 1/3 cup, and 1/4 cup measures. Be sure to look at my Step by Step: Measuring Flour Correctly for best results.

For the most accurate flour measuring, you can weigh the flour on a kitchen scale. This is what home economists do when they are testing recipes before publication; and it's the way Nigella Lawson always measures her flour on her TV show!

* One cup of white flour weighs 120 grams.
* One cup of whole wheat flour weighs 140 grams.
* One cup of bread flour weighs 130 grams.
* One cup of cake flour weighs 114 grams.

The most common mistake made in measuring flour is to dip the measuring cup into the flour instead of lightly spooning flour into the measuring cup. This can result in up to 25% more flour than the recipe calls for.

To see this for yourself, measure 3 cups of flour into a bowl by scooping the flour with the measuring cup. Then stir the measured flour, and re-measure by lightly scooping with a spoon. When you have measured 3 cups this way, how much flour is left in the bowl? This extra flour will make your baked products heavy and tough. So remember to measure by lightly scooping with a spoon!



Related : How to Measure Flour By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ How to Measure Flour, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Measuring Flour

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Measuring Flour


Measuring Flour ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Measuring Flour

Measuring Flour: Wrong and Right

This is the wrong way to measure flourPicture Of

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Measuring Flour incorrectly is one of the most common mistakes people make in baking and cooking. At the University of Minnesota, we conducted experiments where we learned that the biggest variable in every recipe is the cook. So standardizing measuring techniques is the most important way to ensure that a recipe works.

This is the wrong way to measure flour. Scooping flour from the container or bag directly with the measuring cup will pack the flour into the cup and you'll end up with too much flour. Even with a properly leveled top, this method is wrong.


Gram weight of flour measured incorrectly
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A cup of all-purpose flour, properly measured, should weigh 120 grams. As you can see, the flour measured incorrectly by dipping the measuring cup into the flour weighs 161 grams. This is more than 30% more flour than the recipe needs. A cookie or cake made with flour measured this way will be tough and dry. Sauces will be too thick, and pie crusts crumbly and dry.



Measuring flour correctly
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To measure flour correctly, you need calibrated measuring cups made for measuring dry ingredients. Do not use a coffee cup or drinking glass. Lightly spoon the flour directly into the measuring cup from the container or bag. Do not shake the cup. Do not pack the flour down.




Continue to spoon
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Keep spooning the flour into the cup until it mounds well above the top of the measuring cup.




Level off the top
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Using a dinner knife, turn it so the flat side is down. Hold the cup with the flour in your left hand, and start sweeping the knife over the top of the cup to remove the excess flour.




Keep leveling
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You'll probably need to pass the knife over the measuring cup a few times to get a level surface. Do not shake the cup or pack the flour down.




Weight of properly measured flour
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As you can see, the properly measured flour weighs 121 grams. That's an accurate measurement, and the recipe will be perfect.

Other Measure Flours weigh different amounts. For the most accurate baking, you can weigh flour instead of measuring it. But with some practice, your flour measuring skills will become quite precise.



Related : Measuring Flour By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Measuring Flour, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe


Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe

Easy Peach Cobbler

This Peach Cobbler Recipe takes only minutes of active prep time. It has just three ingredients, one of which is a yellow cake mix. I like to serve this easy peach cobbler warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes


Ingredients

* 1 29 oz. can peach slices in heavy syrup
* 1 yellow cake mix
* 1/2 cup butter


Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9 x 13 pan with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Drain 2-3 Tbsp. of syrup from peaches. Pour remaining peaches and syrup in prepared pan.

3. Sprinkle cake mix evenly over peaches, pressing down lightly to moisten slightly.

4. Cut butter into very small chunks and dot over cake mix.

5. Bake 35-45 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.



Related : Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Lemon Bars Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Lemon Bars Recipe


Lemon Bars Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Lemon Bars Recipe

Lemon Bars

I like to make these Lemon Bars for bake sales, potlucks, picnics and spring and summer celebrations. There is just something about the sweet-tart taste of lemon that really tickles the taste buds.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes


Ingredients

* 1 cup butter, softened to room temperature
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling

* 5 large eggs
* 1-3/4 cups granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup freshly-squeezed lemon juice
* zest of 2 lemons
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/3 cup powdered sugar


Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish.

2. With an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar together. Add flour to mixture just until it comes together as a dough. Turn out onto a floured board and knead a few times. Press into bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared pan.

3. Bake 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Let crust cool on a wire rack.

4. For the filling, beat eggs, sugar, lemon juice and lemon zest together. Whisk in flour until smooth. Pour into crust. Bake 30 minutes or until filling is set.

5. Let lemon bars cool to room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Makes 36 lemon bars.



Related : Lemon Bars Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Lemon Bars Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Ice Cream Pie Recipe

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Ice Cream Pie Recipe


Ice Cream Pie Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Ice Cream Pie Recipe

Ice Cream Pie

This Ice Cream Pie is one of my favorite summertime desserts, because everybody loves it, and it's so easy to make. Although my recipe for ice cream pie calls for homemade chocolate sauce, you can certainly use store-bought chocolate sauce in a pinch.

Prep Time: 4 hours, 5 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours, 5 minutes

Ingredients

* 1 9-inch graham cracker pie crust
* 1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened
* 3/4 cup crushed peanuts
* 3/4 cup miniature chocolate chips
* Chocolate Sauce:
* 1 8 oz. semisweet chocolate bar, chopped
* 1 Tbsp. butter
* 1/3 cup heavy cream

Preparation

1. Spread softened ice cream into graham cracker pie crust. Smooth the top of the ice cream. Sprinkle crushed peanuts and chocolate chips over ice cream. Freeze until firm, about 4 hours.

2. Make the chocolate sauce: Place chopped chocolate and butter in a glass bowl. Heat cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat just until scalded (bubbles will form around the edge). Immediately pour cream over chopped chocolate. Stir until melted.

3. Cut pieces of pie. Spoon hot chocolate sauce over pie.

Makes 8 servings of ice cream pie.



Related : Ice Cream Pie Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Ice Cream Pie Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Mustard Potato Salad Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Mustard Potato Salad Recipe


Mustard Potato Salad Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Mustard Potato Salad Recipe

Mustard Potato Salad

This Mustard Potato Salad is a favorite among kids and adults alike. I like Yukon gold potatoes for this mustard potato salad recipe, but russet potatoes work fine, too.

Serve this mustard potato salad at your next picnic, potluck or cookout with Bacon Cheeseburgers or Fried Chicken.

Ingredients:

* 2-3 lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
* 2 Tbsp. sweet pickle relish
* 1 tsp. kosher salt
* 1/2 tsp. freshly-ground black pepper
* 5-6 dashes hot sauce, to taste
* 1/2 cup chopped celery

Preparation:

1. Place potatoes in a heavy saucepan. Cover with water by one inch.

2. Bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain. You'll want the potatoes to cool quite a bit before making the mustard potato salad.

3. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, relish, salt, pepper and hot sauce. This is your dressing for the mustard potato salad.

4. Fold in celery and potatoes.

5. Refrigerate until ready to serve.



Related : Mustard Potato Salad Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Mustard Potato Salad Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Tips for Grilling Burgers

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Tips for Grilling Burgers


Tips for Grilling Burgers ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Tips for Grilling Burgers

Grilling Perfect Burgers is easy if you follow these simple tips:

* Use beef with the right amount of fat. I recommend 80% to 85% lean ground beef. The fat is what makes your burgers juicy.

* I also recommend grass-fed beef, if you can find it (Whole Foods carries it; you can also find it at farmer's markets). Grass-fed beef not only tastes better, it's also leaner and has a better nutritional profile.

* If your ground beef is frozen, thaw completely in the refrigerator before using. Do not try to cook beef from a frozen state.

* To see if your burgers are done, check using an instant-read thermometer. Insert it in the side of the burger through to the middle. Burgers should be cooked to 160 degrees F.

* Color is not an indicator of whether or not your burgers are cooked thoroughly. Burgers that are brown inside may not be cooked to 160 degrees F, and burgers that are cooked through may still be pink inside.

* Handle the beef as little as possible while shaping the burgers. Overhandling results in toughness.

* Form patties that about 3/4-inch thick. Press your thumb in the middle of each patty to prevent it from bulging during cooking.

* Refrigerate your burgers while preparing the grill. Preheat the grill long enough to get it nice and hot, about 15 minutes should do it.

* Season the burgers with salt and pepper on the outside, just before grilling. I recommend Maldon Sea Salt. Its large crystals really bring out the flavor of the burgers. And by seasoning the outside of the burgers, the salt, which enhances the beef's flavor, will hit your mouth first.

* Place the burgers on the grill, and leave them there. Do not press down on the burgers during cooking.

* Flip once, after 3-6 minutes.

* Let your burgers rest at least 5 minutes before serving.



Related : Tips for Grilling Burgers By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Tips for Grilling Burgers, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Maldon Sea Salt

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Maldon Sea Salt


Maldon Sea Salt ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Maldon Sea Salt

Maldon Sea Salt


The Bottom Line

With Maldon Sea Salt, you can make everything from green beans to watermelon salad taste like it came out of the kitchen of a four-star restaurant for roughly the price of a latte and muffin at Starbucks.

Pros

* Dramatically enhances the flavor of food, especially vegetables.
* Less expensive than typical "gourmet" sea salts.
* Provides a delicately satisfying mouth feel.
* Only need to use a little to get a lot of flavor.

Cons

* Not available in most supermarkets.
* More expensive than regular salt.
* Only to be used as a finishing salt -- not for baking.

Description

* Light, flaky pyramid crystals of sea salt that melt in your mouth.
* Around $6.50 a box.
* Can be purchased in bulk online.
* Available online or at specialty stores like Williams-Sonoma.

Guide Review - Maldon sea salt Will Transform Your Cooking

Every so often, you can add a little something new to a recipe, and whoosh! The difference rocks your world.

Such was the case the first time I tried Maldon sea salt.

A few years ago, Slate magazine did an informal taste test of popular gourmet sea salts. They tested a wide variety of popular salts on everything from a cucumber to pasta sauce, french fries, and plain, on the finger.

Maldon came out on top. With a price of around $6.50 a box, I figured it was worth a try.

I expected it to work well for me, in the way that a new peeler or measuring cup works well. Nice, but nothing to really comment on. I wasn't prepared for how much it would make in the overall flavor of my food.

My family actually commented on how much better my Roasted Green Beans tasted. And once, when I was out, I came home to find my 9-year-old rooting around in my spice cabinet to find the Maldon salt so her plain microwave-baked potato could taste the way I made it taste the night before.

The beauty of Maldon sea salt lies in its size and shape. It's not the typical chunky round crystal of most sea salts. Rather, it is a flaky pyramid. Somehow the extra surface area adds both extra crunch and lightness on the tongue.

And because it is so flavorful, a little goes a long way. A mere 1/2 teaspoon tossed with a pound of cooked broccoli is enough to make a statement.



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Green Beans Recipe

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Green Beans Recipe


Green Beans Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Green Beans Recipe

Green Beans

Browned butter and walnuts make ordinary Green Beans taste extraordinary. Even people who don't normally like green beans will like this recipe.

If you want to go really gourmet, use high-end sea salt, such as Maldon sea salt. It costs about $6.50 for a box, and it takes this Green Beans Recipe to a whole new level.


Ingredients

* 1 pound fresh green beans, washed and trimmed
* 4 Tbsp. butter
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
* 1/2 tsp. kosher salt


Preparation

1. Place washed and trimmed green beans in a gallon-size zip-lock plastic bag. Poke holes in the top with a knife to allow steam to escape.

2. Place the bag in the microwave with the holes facing up. Heat on high 3-6 minutes, until green beans are crisp-tender. Do not overcook. Check at 3 minutes.

3. Heat butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once melted, turn heat down to medium-low and let butter simmer until it turns brown. Be careful! Butter burns easily, so you will want to watch it, turning heat down if necessary. When the butter starts to give off a nutty aroma, it's ready.

4. Add walnuts to the butter and let cook a minute or two. Add green beans and salt. Toss until well-coated. Cook another minute. Serve immediately.

Makes 4-6 servings.



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Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

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Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe


Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

Strawberry Spinach Salad

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is one of my favorite ways to enjoy fresh strawberries. Look for glazed pecans in the produce section of your supermarket. If you don't care for spinach, you can always substitute romaine lettuce in this spinach strawberry salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

* 10 oz. fresh spinach, washed and patted dry with paper towels
* 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
* 1/2 cup glazed pecans (such as Emerald brand)
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise (low-fat is okay)
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
* kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste


Preparation

1. Place spinach, strawberries and pecans in a large salad bowl.

2. Whisk together remaining ingredients. Pour over salad. Toss well.



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Broccoli Salad Recipe

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Broccoli Salad Recipe


Broccoli Salad Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Broccoli Salad Recipe

Broccoli Salad

This Broccoli Salad Recipe artfully combines the flavors of sweet, salty and crunchy. Unlike some broccoli raisin salads, which use raw broccoli, this one blanches the broccoli briefly before tossing into the salad. The result is a more tender broccoli salad recipe.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes


Ingredients

* 5 strips bacon
* 5 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
* 1/2 cup slivered almonds (toasted, if desired)
* 1/2 cup raisins
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup diced red onion
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
* 2 Tbsp. sugar


Preparation

1. Fry bacon until crisp. Drain.

2. Fill a 3-quart saucepan three-quarters of the way full. Bring to a boil. While water is heating, fill a large bowl with ice and cold water.

3. Add broccoli to boiling water and cook for 1 minute. Immediately drain and plunge into ice water.

4. Drain and transfer to a salad bowl. Add almonds, raisins, cheese, and onion.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar and sugar. Pour over broccoli mixture and toss well.

6. Mix in half of the bacon. Crumble the remaining bacon over the top of the salad just before serving.



Related : By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Broccoli Salad Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Vegetable Lasagna Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Vegetable Lasagna Recipe


Vegetable Lasagna Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
Picture Of

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Vegetable Lasagna Recipe

Vegetable Lasagna

Vegetable Lasagna Recipe often require you to make a bechamel (white) sauce. Not this one. It is easy, because you just saute the vegetables, then stir in jarred or Spaghetti Sauce.

Serve this Vegetable Lasagna with Caesar salad and Garlic bread.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour, 25 minutes


Ingredients

* 2 Tbsp. olive oil
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup diced green pepper
* 1/2 cup diced red pepper
* 1/2 cup diced zucchini
* 8 oz. sliced mushrooms
* 2 26 oz. jars spaghetti sauce or 6 cups homemade spaghetti sauce
* kosher salt and black pepper to taste
* 15 oz. part-skim ricotta cheese
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1 cup shredded asiago cheese
* 12 oven-ready lasagna noodles, such as Ronzoni or Barilla
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese


Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

2. Heat olive oil in a large (12- or 14-inch) skillet over medium heat. Add onions, garlic and peppers. Saute several minutes until vegetables start to soften.

3. Add zucchini and mushrooms. Saute 2-3 more minutes until the vegetables have released most of their water. Stir in spaghetti sauce.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let the sauce simmer about 7-10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings.

5. In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, eggs and asiago cheese together. Set aside.

6. Spoon about 3/4 cup of the vegetable sauce into the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan. Top with four lasagna noodles, going crosswise. It's okay if they overlap. Top with 1/2 of the ricotta mixture, the Parmesan cheese and 1/3 of the sauce.

7. Top with four more lasagna noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/3 of the sauce. Top with the remaining lasagna noodles and remaining spaghetti sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the spaghetti sauce.

8. Cover with aluminum foil, and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil, and bake another 10-20 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let vegetable lasagna rest 15 minutes before cutting.



Related : By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Vegetable Lasagna Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe


Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
Picture Of

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

These Sweet and Sour Meatballs are easy to prepare and always a hit with the kids. Although this recipe calls for the sweet and sour meatballs to be prepared on the stove, you can certainly use the Crockpot instead. Just brown the meatballs first, whisk together the sauce ingredients and toss them in the Crockpot together. Set it on low for 8 hours or high for 3 hours, and you're all set to go.


Ingredients

* 1 large egg
* 1/2 cup bread crumbs
* 1 tsp. garlic powder
* 1 lb. ground beef
* kosher salt and pepper
* 1-1/4 cups water
* 2 Tbsp. cornstarch
* 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup ketchup
* 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
* 1/4 cup crushed pineapple
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 2 Tbsp. olive oil


Preparation

1. In a large bowl, whisk egg. Stir in bread crumbs and garlic powder. Add ground beef, salt and pepper.

2. Form into meatballs. Set aside.

3. Whisk together the water and cornstarch. Stir in the teriyaki sauce, vinegar, ketchup, garlic, pineapple and brown sugar. Set aside.

4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs. Brown on all sides.

5. Pour teriyaki sauce mixture into a 3-quart saucepan. Heat on medium-high.

6. Add browned meatballs to the sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, and let simmer 30 minutes.

Serve with hot rice.



Related : By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Sweet and Sour Meatballs Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
Read more »