Spicy Southwest Cornbread Dressing

As un-American as this sounds, I’m really not a fan of traditional Thanksgiving dressing or stuffing. I’ve always liked the idea but I just can’t get into the taste. Last year, at my husband’s family’s Thanksgiving dinner, we enjoyed dressing that was flavored with cilantro. It’s something that I never would have thought of, but the flavors really go so well together. As much as I love Southwestern food, I had to try making it myself, so I came up with this similar, spicy, version! Note that this makes a pretty large batch, perfect for serving up at the holidays! … Continue reading Spicy Southwest Cornbread Dressing

Avocado Hummus

I really like hummus but I’ve never made any myself. It’s so simple, I’m not sure why I didn’t do this sooner! Hummus is a healthy snack, or a great appetizer for summer parties and barbecues. It’s also completely vegetarian! I chose to make hummus with avocado, I love the taste and texture that the avocado added to this recipe. Avocado Cilantro Hummus 1 16oz can chickpeas (garbanzo beans) 1 avocado cilantro -small bunch (optional) 1/2 lime 2 tbsp olive oil 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper Drain and rinse chickpeas. Juice the lime and … Continue reading Avocado Hummus

Spicy & Sweet Baked Beans

Recently we were served a Mexican meal that came with a side of baked beans. The beans were spicy and sweet, with bacon, jalapenos, and cilantro. I’d never considered combining baked beans and Mexican black beans but it was so good, I couldn’t wait to try to duplicate the recipe! I feel like what I came up with is pretty close, though I did choose to use black beans instead of navy beans. Spicy Baked Beans                                    6 servings 5 strips of bacon 1 cup … Continue reading Spicy & Sweet Baked Beans

Herb Tips // Favorites

I love cooking with fresh herbs, but they can be expensive and don’t have a very long shelf life. Here are a couple of quick tips to extend the life of your herbs! If you’ve purchased way too many fresh herbs, or if your garden is full of them, chop herbs and place into an ice cube tray. Pour olive oil over the herbs and freeze. I’ve used this trick with cilantro and basil, two of my favorites! I pull the cubes out of the freezer and toss them into a skillet when cooking meat, beans, or sauces! Cilantro is … Continue reading Herb Tips // Favorites

Container Gardening

Last year I started my very first herb garden on our balcony. I planted a little late into the year and my seedlings struggled to survive in full afternoon/evening sun. When warmer weather arrived in Texas over a month ago, I was excited to plant as soon as possible. I also decided to go a little further and try vegetable gardening. I planted Cilantro and Purple Bell Peppers (Yes, Purple!). I also invested in a Topsy Turvy Planter for tomatoes. While it’s not the cutest thing ever, it seems to be doing the job. Plus, it doesn’t take up any room on our … Continue reading Container Gardening