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How to Cook Asparagus Four Ways

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Ever wondered how to cook asparagus? It is a quick and easy vegetable to prepare on the stove or in the oven. These four recipes are all great options for making delicious asparagus seasoned just the way you like it!

Ever wondered how to cook asparagus? It is a quick and easy vegetable to prepare on the stove or in the oven. These four recipes are all great options for making delicious asparagus seasoned just the way you like it!

Sautéed Asparagus and Mushrooms

Five minute sautéed asparagus and mushrooms make an easy spring side dish. Simple enough for every day, fancy enough for a special meal, mushrooms optional. I included easy directions to prepare the asparagus for cooking.

Five minute sautéed asparagus and mushrooms make an easy spring side dish. Simple enough for every day, fancy enough for a special meal, mushrooms optional.  This one is one of the most popular recipes on my site.

 

Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus 

Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus is a fast and easy side dish perfect for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts. Everything you need (except the asparagus) is probably already in your fridge! Check out my tips for picking out perfect asparagus in the store (bottom of recipe).

Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus is a fast for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts. Garlic gives it a different flavor and everything you need (except the asparagus) is probably already in your fridge! Check out my tips for picking out perfect asparagus in the store (bottom of recipe).

 

Oven Roasted Asparagus and Mushrooms

Well roasted asparagus is a real treat! The secret is simple seasoning, good timing and of course adding some mushrooms! This is a quick and easy side dish that goes well with just about anything.

Already making dinner on the stove?  Try cooking your asparagus in the oven!  Well roasted asparagus is a real treat! The secret is simple seasoning, good timing and of course adding some mushrooms!  This is a quick and easy side dish that goes well with just about anything. 

 

Miso Roasted Asparagus

This miso roasted asparagus is easy to put in the oven while you put dinner together. I love the subtle undertone from the miso. Anybody can nail this recipe and cook wonderful asparagus!

Even a well loved vegetable can get boring over time.  Trying a unusual seasoning can freshen up an old favorite!  This miso roasted asparagus is easy to put in the oven while you put dinner together.  I love the subtle salty undertone from the miso.  Anybody can nail this recipe and cook wonderful asparagus!

 

Have a great week.  Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!

 

Ever wondered how to cook asparagus? It is a quick and easy vegetable to prepare on the stove or in the oven. These four recipes are all great options for making delicious asparagus seasoned just the way you like it!

✕

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Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus

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Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus is a fast and easy side dish perfect for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts. Everything you need (except the asparagus) is probably already in your fridge! Check out my tips for picking out perfect asparagus in the store (bottom of recipe).

Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus is a fast and easy side dish perfect for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts. Everything you need (except the asparagus) is probably already in your fridge! Check out my tips for picking out perfect asparagus in the store (bottom of recipe).

The truth is I’ve been making my sautéed asparagus the same way for years! I keep it simple with butter, salt and pepper.  It is amazing and perfect!  But this year I decided to branch out a bit more and try some new things.  I didn’t go crazy but I did come up with several new options we have enjoyed putting into the rotation!

This Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus was a huge hit with Jonathan.  I think it reminded him of a more Asian style vegetable dish.  We both like the simplicity of prep and being able to toss it together while cooking something else on the stove or in the oven.

If you are unfamiliar with asparagus make sure to check out the tips at the bottom of the recipe.  You will be picking out the perfect bundle of spears in no time!

Have a great week.  Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!

Tools In This Post:  Most kitchens need two good skillets.  I’m using this set from Calphalon for my basic pans.

You know what goes well with Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus?  Roast Beef!

This Roast Beef only takes five minutes to get in the oven and comes out perfectly every time. Even cheap cuts of meat are sensational!

Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus is a fast and easy side dish perfect for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts. Everything you need (except the asparagus) is probably already in your fridge! Check out my tips for picking out perfect asparagus in the store (bottom of recipe).
5 from 1 vote
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Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus

Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus is a fast and easy side dish perfect for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts. Everything you need (except the asparagus) is probably already in your fridge! Check out my tips for picking out perfect asparagus in the store (bottom of recipe).
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 102 kcal
Author Mirlandra

Ingredients

  • 1 pound asparagus see note
  • 3 Tbsp. salted butter
  • 2 tsp. minced garlic optional
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • ½ tsp. fresh ground black pepper coarsely ground
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  1. Trim the root ends from the asparagus spears about 1” or enough to remove any white part.
  2. Heat butter and garlic in a large skillet over medium high heat just until the garlic starts to turn light brown.
  3. Add the trimmed asparagus, water, salt and pepper. Toss with tongs or spatula occasionally. Cook 4-6 minutes until the asparagus is just tender with the smallest crunch and the pan is starting to go dry.
  4. Taste for salt and pepper and serve hot.

Recipe Notes

How to Choose Asparagus: In the store look for spears of asparagus that are about the width of a pencil or at the largest a narrow sharpie. Choose a bundle that has firm green tips and is not slimy. The asparagus should look fresh and nice.

Nutrition Facts
Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus
Amount Per Serving
Calories 102 Calories from Fat 81
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 9g 14%
Saturated Fat 5g 25%
Cholesterol 23mg 8%
Sodium 320mg 13%
Potassium 229mg 7%
Total Carbohydrates 4g 1%
Dietary Fiber 2g 8%
Sugars 2g
Protein 2g 4%
Vitamin A 22.7%
Vitamin C 7.7%
Calcium 3%
Iron 13.5%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Garlic Butter Sautéed Asparagus is a fast and easy side dish perfect for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts. Everything you need (except the asparagus) is probably already in your fridge! Check out my tips for picking out perfect asparagus in the store (bottom of recipe).

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Oven Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

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These Garlic Parmesan Potatoes have that perfect mix of garlic, butter, cheese and seasonings. They are a quick side dish to toss together for a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal. Adding the butter at the end gives them SO much extra flavor.

These Garlic Parmesan Potatoes have that perfect mix of garlic, butter, cheese and seasonings. They are a quick side dish to toss together for a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal. Adding the butter at the end gives them SO much extra flavor.

My mom started giving me an allowance when I was about 2.  I got a quarter a week (big money in the 80s!) and liked to take my coins to the farmer’s market to buy potatoes and tomatoes.  I think if you could be born with food in hand mine would have been potatoes!

While I’ve never met a way to cook potatoes I didn’t like, roasted is always high on my list!  It does a great job of concentrating the potato for that rich roasted flavor I love and only takes a few minutes to prep a side dish for the oven – no fuss, no muss.

I used to roast potatoes exclusively in oil but these days I toss a bit of butter on in the end.  Unlike mashed potatoes a little goes a long way and taking that extra step gives you tons of wonderful flavor.  If I’m feeling a bit fancy I toss on some fresh herbs at the end for color and more flavor.  Bing, bang, boom and DONE!

Have a great week.  Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!

Tools In This Post: I keep a bottle of this Italian Herb Blend on hand at all times. It is my go to instead of fresh herbs that are more expensive and hard to keep handy. Usually you can find this in the produce section of the grocery store for $4 or under. If not badger the grocery store or order off of Amazon.

I like to serve these potatoes with this Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin! 

We love this simple bacon wrapped pork tenderloin! The creamy onion sauce and bacon make this easy dinner look fancy without the extra work. Serve it with a salad or rice and veggies for a fast, easy meal.

These Garlic Parmesan Potatoes have that perfect mix of garlic, butter, cheese and seasonings. They are a quick side dish to toss together for a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal. Adding the butter at the end gives them SO much extra flavor.
5 from 2 votes
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Oven Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

These Garlic Parmesan Potatoes have that perfect mix of garlic, butter, cheese and seasonings. They are a quick side dish to toss together for a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal. Adding the butter at the end gives them SO much extra flavor.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 7 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 362 kcal
Author Mirlandra

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds small gold potatoes petite or baby size work well
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tsp. black pepper coarsely ground
  • 2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 2 tsp. onion salt
  • 1/2 tsp. paprika
  • 2 tsp. freeze dried Italian herb blend I use Litehouse brand
  • 6 Tbsp. salted butter melted
  • Fresh parsley or chives to garnish optional
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 F.
  2. Spray a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
  3. Wash the potatoes and slice in half. Place in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  4. Sprinkle everything else except the butter over the potatoes. Gently toss to coat.
  5. Bake for 25 – 30 or until golden and crisp. The potatoes should be very tender when pierced with the tip of a knife. Stir in butter until melted. Taste for salt and serve garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Oven Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Amount Per Serving
Calories 362 Calories from Fat 153
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 17g 26%
Saturated Fat 8g 40%
Cholesterol 31mg 10%
Sodium 744mg 31%
Potassium 50mg 1%
Total Carbohydrates 2g 1%
Vitamin A 11.6%
Calcium 1.1%
Iron 1.9%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

These Garlic Parmesan Potatoes have that perfect mix of garlic, butter, cheese and seasonings. They are a quick side dish to toss together for a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal. Adding the butter at the end gives them SO much extra flavor.

✕

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Oven Roasted Asparagus and Mushrooms

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Well roasted asparagus is a real treat! The secret is simple seasoning, good timing and of course adding some mushrooms!  This is a quick and easy side dish that goes well with just about anything. 

Well roasted asparagus is a real treat! The secret is simple seasoning, good timing and of course adding some mushrooms! This is a quick and easy side dish that goes well with just about anything.

There are several great ways to cook asparagus but making roasted asparagus with mushrooms is one of my favorites!  It is fast, easy and the results are consistently great.  Asparagus is one of the “problem child” vegetables.  Lots of people have had bad experiences with it because it was cooked badly or just plain wrong.  I find that many people who think they don’t like asparagus just need to have it cooked right.

If you have ever eaten mushy spears of asparagus you know what I’m talking about!  Generally this is a vegetable that should be cooked “tender crisp”.  All that means is that when you bite into a spear of asparagus it should be tender with the smallest crunch.

Oven roasted asparagus is more forgiving when it comes to overcooking.  The oven crisps it up just a bit and if you go over a few minutes you still have great flavor and texture.

If you have kids this is a good way to introduce them to asparagus even if they are not quite ready for mushrooms.  Check out the notes at the bottom of the recipe if you have any questions on how to pick out good quality asparagus in the store!

Have a great week.  Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!

Tools In This Post:  Most kitchens need 2-4 good quality sheet pans.  Flimsy ones do a bad job cooking your food and are not worth it!  Invest in a brand like Calphalon where the pans are sturdy.  They will last you years for roasting, cookies, cakes etc.  This is one you won’t regret.

What are you serving with this asparagus?  Maybe this perfect oven roast beef?  Mmmmmm….

This Roast Beef only takes five minutes to get in the oven and comes out perfectly every time. Even cheap cuts of meat are sensational!

Well roasted asparagus is a real treat! The secret is simple seasoning, good timing and of course adding some mushrooms! This is a quick and easy side dish that goes well with just about anything.
5 from 1 vote
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Oven Roasted Asparagus and Mushrooms

Well roasted asparagus is a real treat! The secret is simple seasoning, good timing and of course adding some mushrooms! This is a quick and easy side dish that goes well with just about anything.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 137 kcal
Author Mirlandra

Ingredients

  • 1 pound asparagus see note
  • 8 oz Cremini mushrooms quartered (also called baby bella mushrooms)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper coarsely ground
  • ¼ cup salted butter melted
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
  2. Trim the root ends from the asparagus spears about 1” or enough to remove any white or purple part. Cut the mushrooms in quarters
  3. Arrange the asparagus down the long side of a rimmed baking sheet, spreading the spears out a bit. Arrange the mushrooms in the remaining space below.
  4. Sprinkle the salt and pepper over all the vegetables. Drizzle with melted butter.
  5. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes stirring once in the middle. When the asparagus is tender and tips are browning it is done. Taste for salt and pepper and serve.

Recipe Notes

How to Choose Asparagus: In the store look for spears of asparagus that are about the width of a pencil or at the largest a narrow sharpie. Choose a bundle that has fresh green tips and is not slimy.

Nutrition Facts
Oven Roasted Asparagus and Mushrooms
Amount Per Serving
Calories 137 Calories from Fat 99
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 11g 17%
Saturated Fat 7g 35%
Cholesterol 30mg 10%
Sodium 397mg 17%
Potassium 483mg 14%
Total Carbohydrates 7g 2%
Dietary Fiber 2g 8%
Sugars 3g
Protein 4g 8%
Vitamin A 24.2%
Vitamin C 7.7%
Calcium 4.1%
Iron 14.7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Well roasted asparagus is a real treat! The secret is simple seasoning, good timing and of course adding some mushrooms! This is a quick and easy side dish that goes well with just about anything.

✕

Free Simple Weeknight Meal Plan

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15 Minute Easy Alfredo Sauce

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This easy alfredo sauce is the perfect alfredo for pasta or for dipping your favorite breadsticks and veggies. It is perfectly creamy and full of Parmesan cheese. Best of all, you can make it in 15 minutes and everybody will be arguing over the last spoonful.  If you want to get extra fancy serve it with sautéed mushrooms or shrimp!

This easy alfredo sauce is the perfect alfredo for pasta, bread stick dipping or even over vegetables. It is perfectly creamy and full of Parmesan cheese. Best of all, you can make it in 15 minutes and everybody will be arguing over the last spoonful.

There is just something about a perfect easy alfredo sauce!  I have a hard time not just dipping my fingers in and licking them off.  Before we started dating my husband would go to the store and buy jars of “alfredo” sauce on occasion and I was always horrified!  Who DOES that?  Well, actually lots of people do.  Alfredo sauce has a bad rep for being hard to cook and it is not deserved.  You just need 15 minutes for a stunning homemade version.

I often serve this just the way it is on some pasta for a simple, soul satisfying meal.  However, it is also great with some sautéed mushroom slices or sautéed sweet onions.  You can dice up some chicken or get some seafood going with shrimp or scallops!  My favorite is mushroom – Jonathan’s is a combo of shrimp, scallops and mushroom!

This is one of those meals I suggest you bring out for a special occasion if you want to impress family or maybe make something lovely for Valentine’s Day.  It is one of those perfect things that is easy to prepare but SO impressive when you eat it.  Simple food prepared well is often the most memorable!

Have a great week.  Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!

Tools In This Post:  This measuring cup is my go to for recipes like this.  I measure directly into it and then microwave my liquid in the same dish.  If you cook frequently I suggest owning 1-2 of these and 1-2 if the 2 cup size.  I own two of each and one of the 1 cup size.

Since you’ve got dinner in the bag, what is for dessert?  These Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies are pretty much always on my list!

These Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies are my perfect cookie! They have just the right soft chew, tons of chocolate chips and excellent flavor! This is the recipe for all of us die hard chocolate chip cookie lovers! These are the best soft chocolate chip cookies I have ever made by far!

This easy alfredo sauce is the perfect alfredo for pasta, bread stick dipping or even over vegetables. It is perfectly creamy and full of Parmesan cheese. Best of all, you can make it in 15 minutes and everybody will be arguing over the last spoonful.
5 from 2 votes
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15 Minute Easy Alfredo Sauce

This easy alfredo sauce is the perfect alfredo for pasta or for dipping your favorite breadsticks and veggies. It is perfectly creamy and full of Parmesan cheese. Best of all, you can make it in 15 minutes and everybody will be arguing over the last spoonful. If you want to get extra fancy serve it with sautéed mushrooms or shrimp!
Course Dinner or Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 611 kcal
Author Mirlandra

Ingredients

  • 2 cups 2% milk can also use whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 6 Tbsp. salted butter
  • 1/2 tsp. minced garlic
  • 6 Tbsp. flour
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • ½ tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  1. Combine the milk and cream in a microwave safe container and microwave on high for 2 ½ minutes or until warm through.
  2. Meanwhile put the butter and garlic in a large sauce pan over medium-high heat. Whisk occasionally until melted.
  3. Turn the heat down to medium. Whisk in the flour, salt and pepper. Cook, whisking constantly, for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in a few tablespoons of the warm milk mixture and whisk until smooth. Continue to add a few tablespoons of liquid at a time whisking until smooth after each addition. After the sauce is thin add the rest of the milk mixture and whisk again to combine.
  5. Add the cheese and whisk frequently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is slightly thickened. The sauce can be served at whatever thickness you like. The longer you cook it, the thicker it will be. Generally I serve it when it is the consistency of slightly thin gravy.
  6. Serve over your favorite pasta with additional cheese or with sautéed mushroom slices. Alternately this sauce makes a great dip for bread sticks or vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
15 Minute Easy Alfredo Sauce
Amount Per Serving
Calories 611 Calories from Fat 441
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 49g 75%
Saturated Fat 30g 150%
Cholesterol 160mg 53%
Sodium 857mg 36%
Potassium 264mg 8%
Total Carbohydrates 25g 8%
Sugars 6g
Protein 17g 34%
Vitamin A 35.3%
Vitamin C 0.7%
Calcium 46.6%
Iron 7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

This easy alfredo sauce is the perfect alfredo for pasta, bread stick dipping or even over vegetables. It is perfectly creamy and full of Parmesan cheese. Best of all, you can make it in 15 minutes and everybody will be arguing over the last spoonful.

✕

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My Favorite 16 Recipes of 2017

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Last week I gave you a list of the 10 most popular posts from 2017.  This week I’m giving you a list of my favorite 16 posts from 2017.  There is absolutely no overlap!  Every recipe I share is one I love but these are my special favorites.  Happy cooking!

Last week I gave you a list of the 10 most popular posts from 2017. This week I'm giving you a list of my favorite 16 posts from 2017. There is absolutely no overlap! Every recipe I share is one I love but these are my special favorites.

 

Broccoli is a beloved snack, appetizer, and side dish at our house because we serve it up right with an easy Korean BBQ Sauce for dipping.  Traditional flavors of ginger, garlic, green onions and soy sauce make for some darn good sauce!  Kids and adults love the sweet and salty flavor and the broccoli disappears fast.   Broccoli is a beloved snack, appetizer, and side dish at our house because we serve it up right with an easy Korean BBQ Sauce for dipping. Traditional flavors of ginger, garlic, green onions and soy sauce make for some darn good sauce! Kids and adults love the sweet and salty flavor and the broccoli disappears fast.These flavorful meatballs in a sweet teriyaki pineapple sauce always go quickly!  We serve them as appetizers or with rice and veggies for a simple dinner. 

These flavorful meatballs in a sweet teriyaki pineapple sauce always go quickly! We serve them as appetizers or with rice and veggies for a simple dinner.Tender blueberry scones with a crunchy top and creamy vanilla glaze. You won’t be able to resist this warm, buttery treat full of berries.  They are a perfect mid-winter pick-me-up or a glorious summer treat.

This chocolate cake is everything you want a classic chocolate cake to be:  chocolaty, moist and decadent. Whipped vanilla buttercream is the cherry on top!

This chocolate cake is everything you want a classic chocolate cake to be: chocolaty, moist and decadent. Whipped vanilla buttercream is the cherry on top!

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a family favorite full of flavorful rice and creamy sauce with celery, mushrooms and chicken. It only takes 10 minutes to get it into the oven which makes it perfect for busy nights!  If you have leftovers they heat up well.

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a family favorite full of flavorful rice and creamy sauce with celery, mushrooms and chicken. It only takes 10 minutes to get it into the oven which makes it perfect for busy nights! If you have leftovers they heat up well.

This lemon drop martini is my version of heaven. Simple to prepare, and lemony perfection to drink. Try my lemon sugar recipe on the rim – it is excellent!  You can make these a few at a time or mix up as a big batch cocktail for a party.  Perfect for bridal showers, Easter brunch, or summer BBQs.

This lemon drop martini is my version of heaven. Simple to prepare, and lemony perfection to drink. Try my lemon sugar recipe on the rim - it is excellent! You can make these a few at a time or mix up as a big batch cocktail for a party. Perfect for bridal showers, Easter brunch, or summer BBQs.

Easy no chill sugar cookie dough, fluffy cream cheese sauce, and piles of fresh fruit toppings make this Fruit Pizza a smash hit for any occasion.

Easy no chill sugar cookie dough, fluffy cream cheese sauce, and piles of fresh fruit toppings make this Fruit Pizza a smash hit for any occasion.

5 minutes. 5 ingredients. 1 perfect salsa!  This recipe is fast and easy but makes some of the best salsa I have ever had! We eat it on everything from breakfast burritos to chips.  It is a healthy way to add some veggies to our life and great flavor to our food.  It is great mild or spicy.

5 minutes. 5 ingredients. 1 perfect salsa! This recipe is fast and easy but makes some of the best salsa I have ever had! We eat it on everything from breakfast burritos to chips. It is a healthy way to add some veggies to our life and great flavor to our food. It is great mild or spicy.Refreshing and delicious, this Frozen Watermelon Margarita is my favorite summer drink. It is the perfect blend of tequila, sweet watermelon and tangy lime.

Refreshing and delicious, this Frozen Watermelon Margarita is my favorite summer drink. It is the perfect blend of tequila, sweet watermelon and tangy lime.

These Refried Beans get their amazing flavor from a smoked ham hock, several aromatic veggies and a bit of bacon drippings. I lick the spoon every time!

These Refried Beans get their amazing flavor from a smoked ham hock, several aromatic veggies and a bit of bacon drippings. I lick the spoon every time!

Grilled chicken the way it should be!  Tender, sweet and savory – grilled up with juicy brown sugar pineapple for an easy dinner in 20 minutes.

Grilled chicken the way it should be! Tender, sweet and savory - grilled up with juicy brown sugar pineapple for an easy dinner in 20 minutes.

Creamed corn is the perfect side dish for dinner or the holidays. This rich and creamy slow cooker version only takes five minutes to throw together.

Creamed corn is the perfect side dish for dinner or the holidays. This rich and creamy slow cooker version only takes five minutes to throw together.

7 Up cake is a true Southern classic – sweet, moist and flavorful! Nobody can resist this lovely citrus pound cake with 7Up glaze.

7Up cake is a true Southern classic – sweet, moist and flavorful! Nobody can resist this lovely citrus pound cake with 7Up glaze.

These Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies are my perfect cookie! They have just the right soft chew, tons of chocolate chips and excellent flavor!  This is the recipe for all of us die hard chocolate chip cookie lovers!  These are the best soft chocolate chip cookies I have ever made by far!

These Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies are my perfect cookie! They have just the right soft chew, tons of chocolate chips and excellent flavor! This is the recipe for all of us die hard chocolate chip cookie lovers! These are the best soft chocolate chip cookies I have ever made by far!

Fall in love with these delicious no chill cinnamon roll sugar cookies! The cookies are soft and sweet and packed full of the delicious cinnamon roll filling we all love.  These are the most addictive cookies I have made to date and actually easier than they look (you don’t even have to chill the cookie dough.)

Fall in love with these delicious no chill cinnamon roll sugar cookies! The cookies are soft and sweet and packed full of the delicious cinnamon roll filling we all love. These are the most addictive cookies I have made to date and actually easier than they look (you don't even have to chill the cookie dough.)

Sticky honey garlic shrimp is a fast and healthy dinner full of flavor with just the right amount of stickiness. This Asian take on shrimp is always a hit! Serve it over rice or individually as a party food if you like.  Either way, be prepared for it to disappear quickly!

Sticky honey garlic shrimp is a fast and healthy dinner full of flavor with just the right amount of stickiness. This Asian take on shrimp is always a hit! Serve it over rice or individually as a party food if you like. Either way, be prepared for it to disappear quickly!

 

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15 Minute Throw Together Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup

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This healthy slow cooker curried lentil soup is the perfect winter warmer. Just 15 minutes of prep gets you a protein packed dinner full of veggies.  Yellow curry is a flavorful and unique twist on traditional lentil soup without getting too exotic.  You can choose to use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make it fully vegetarian. 

This healthy slow cooker curried lentil soup is the perfect winter warmer. Just 15 minutes of prep gets you a protein packed dinner full of veggies. Yellow curry is a flavorful and unique twist on traditional lentil soup without getting too exotic. You can choose to use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make it fully vegetarian.

As our family life gets busier I have been turning to recipes that are simpler, quicker, take fewer dishes and are reasonably healthy.  I love comfort food and will still be sharing lots of that but I also make plenty of healthy weeknight recipes that we can enjoy when things are busy.  This slow cooker lentil soup is exactly that dinner!

If this is your thing make sure you sign up at the bottom of this post to get on the email list.  You get a free cookbook and some other goodies and also will get the list of what is new each week!  I’m going to be sharing a lot of this kind of simple, fast dinner for the rest of this month and in 2018!

This lentil soup hit my radar because I really enjoy the flavor of yellow curry in food.  It is usually fairly mild (unless you use a variety such as Madras) and has great flavor.  In general it is family friendly though super picky eaters might not be excited about trying something different.

It is full of veggies and protein without the cost of meat.  Seriously, this one is cheep to make!  And of course it is so flipping fast to get into the crock pot even though you are using lots of fresh veggies and healthy ingredients.

So, grab some lentils and whip up a pot!  Drop me a comment and let me know what you think.  I always love to hear what everybody else is enjoying!

Have a great week.  Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!

Tools In This Post:  I always recommend getting a crock pot that has a timer option and a lid lock option included.  It is really nice to be able to set the pot to cook for a certain time and know it will switch to the keep warm function on its own when the time is right.  This is similar to my version and is less than $40.

Looking for more great recipes that Crock?  This Slow Cooker Pot Roast is one of my most popular recipes and justifiably so! 

This healthy slow cooker curried lentil soup is the perfect winter warmer. Just 15 minutes of prep gets you a protein packed dinner full of veggies. Yellow curry is a flavorful and unique twist on traditional lentil soup without getting too exotic. You can choose to use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make it fully vegetarian.
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15 Minute Throw Together Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup

This healthy slow cooker curried lentil soup is the perfect winter warmer. Just 15 minutes of prep gets you a protein packed dinner full of veggies. Yellow curry is a flavorful and unique twist on traditional lentil soup without getting too exotic. You can choose to use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make it fully vegetarian.
Course Dinner or Appetizer
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 182 kcal
Author Mirlandra

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. Better than Bouillon reduced sodium roasted chicken base or vegetarian base
  • 6 cups warm water
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked brown lentils picked over
  • 4 stalks celery diced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 1 large sweet onion diced
  • 3 tsp. minced garlic
  • 2 ½ -3 Tbsp. yellow curry powder Or Madras curry powder for spice
  • 1 tsp. black pepper
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish optional

Instructions

  1. Add the water and bouillon to the slow cooker. Whisk until most lumps are gone.
  2. Add everything else to the slow cooker and cook on high 4-5 hours until lentils and veggies are tender. (Or cook 6-8 hours on low.)
  3. If the soup is a bit thick for you at the end add ½ to 1 cup of water.
  4. Taste and add additional salt, black pepper or curry powder if you like.

Recipe Notes

Most stores sell “yellow curry powder” in the spice section or Asian section. If you like more spice, use Madras curry powder but you might want to cut the amount down to 1 Tbsp. You can always add more at the end if you need to.

Nutrition Facts
15 Minute Throw Together Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup
Amount Per Serving
Calories 182
% Daily Value*
Sodium 804mg 34%
Potassium 280mg 8%
Total Carbohydrates 41g 14%
Dietary Fiber 19g 76%
Sugars 8g
Protein 17g 34%
Vitamin A 105.5%
Vitamin C 3.7%
Calcium 6.2%
Iron 31.6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

This healthy slow cooker curried lentil soup is the perfect winter warmer. Just 15 minutes of prep gets you a protein packed dinner full of veggies. Yellow curry is a flavorful and unique twist on traditional lentil soup without getting too exotic. You can choose to use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make it fully vegetarian.

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Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread (AKA Crack Bread)

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Hot, crusty bread is drenched in melted butter, crushed garlic, flavorful herbs and then smothered in cheese. Serve it as an easy appetizer or side dish! No matter how you serve it up nobody can resist pulling off piece after cheesy piece! 

Hot, crusty bread is drenched in melted butter, crushed garlic, flavorful herbs and then smothered in cheese. Serve it as an easy appetizer or side dish! No matter how you serve it up nobody can resist pulling off piece after cheesy piece!

Today started out crisp and frosty at our house.  I was in heaven!  Days like today were made for soup and a fresh loaf of this cheesy garlic pull apart bread.

I know the internet calls it “crack bread” and I understand why:  bread + butter + garlic + cheese  = addictive.  But since I’m not actually putting crack in bread I feel a bit more inclined to name my version Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread.  However, you can call it whatever you like!

This is one of those recipes that everybody loves.  I make it to serve with soups, pastas, salads, or even just as a hearty snack!  It is a great addition to game day food or pretty much any party.  Frankly it is well worth putting on your holiday table next month if you are so inclined!  Just don’t expect leftovers…

Have a great week.  Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!

Tools In This Post:  You need a bread knife to slice this correctly.  A bread knife is just a long, serrated knife.  I love this one from Wusthof and the price is reasonable!

I’m loving the fall food season!  Don’t miss this easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe – it is another fall win that is easy and comforting. 

Hot, crusty bread is drenched in melted butter, crushed garlic, flavorful herbs and then smothered in cheese. Serve it as an easy appetizer or side dish! No matter how you serve it up nobody can resist pulling off piece after cheesy piece!
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Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread (AKA Crack Bread)

Hot, crusty bread is drenched in melted butter, crushed garlic, flavorful herbs and then smothered in cheese. Serve it as an easy appetizer or side dish! No matter how you serve it up nobody can resist pulling off piece after cheesy piece!
Course Bread / Breakfast / Brunch / Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 19 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Servings 10
Author Mirlandra

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of French bread any kind but firmer loaves hold up better (use cooked bread, not dough)
  • ½ cup salted butter melted
  • 2 tsp. minced garlic
  • 1 Tbsp. Italian Herb Blend freeze dried such as Litehouse is preferable
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or other favorite cheese that melts well

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 F.
  2. Use a serrated bread knife to cut the bread on a diagonal into 1” sections being careful to not cut through the bread. This means cut diagonally across the loaf from one end to the other and then come back making diagonal cuts the other direction. As long as the bread ends up cut into sections that go almost to the bottom crust it should work. You do need to end up with a diamond pattern from the end of the loaf and not a square pattern.
  3. Place the loaf of bread on a large piece of foil. Combine melted butter, garlic, salt and herbs.
  4. Use one hand to gently separate the chunks of bread and drizzle the herb butter into the cracks with a spoon. The butter can be drizzled over the top and down into the cracks – It won’t look messy after you bake it. The goal is just to get the butter distributed through all the cracks of the bread.
  5. Tuck the cheese down into all the tops of the cracks (pushing it in too far causes the bread pieces to fan open more).
  6. Wrap the bread in the foil and bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese is melted. Unwrap and bake for another 5 minutes to crisp everything up.
  7. Serve hot.

Hot, crusty bread is drenched in melted butter, crushed garlic, flavorful herbs and then smothered in cheese. Serve it as an easy appetizer or side dish! No matter how you serve it up nobody can resist pulling off piece after cheesy piece!

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Gluten Free Green Bean Casserole (A Grown Up Green Bean Casserole)

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This updated version of gluten free green bean casserole is full of mushrooms, caramelized onions, and creamy cheese. Classic flavors reimagined make for a fun new holiday treat.

This updated version of gluten free green bean casserole is full of mushrooms, caramelized onions, and creamy cheese. Classic flavors reimagined make for a fun new holiday treat.

Is gluten free green bean casserole on your radar this year?  I didn’t grow up with the traditional soup based green bean casserole so I was taken by surprise when I married and discovered it was a coveted Thanksgiving side dish!  To be frank it is not my thing.  I enjoy making it from scratch but it is not something I long for.

Last winter a friend mentioned that she had a recipe for a modern version of the dish that sounded like fun so I asked her for the recipe.  I played around a bit and fond that I enjoy this simple version and as a bonus it is naturally gluten free.  These days a Thanksgiving gathering is more than likely to come with somebody who needs a GF option and I love having some items they can enjoy without worry for their health.

If you love mushrooms and flavorful green beans this one is for you!  It also looks quite pretty in the assembly stage – so pretty in fact I could not resist a quick snap.

Have a great week.  Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!

This updated version of gluten free green bean casserole is full of mushrooms, caramelized onions, and creamy cheese. Classic flavors reimagined make for a fun new holiday treat.

Tools In This Post:  I own two casserole pans that are a bit more decorative for nice dinners and holiday time.  I used to own quite a few more but I’ve scaled back to one white, and one cream.  This is a lovely simple one I think is perfect for casual and elegant meals.

Need more sure fire holiday recipes?  These classic Deviled Eggs are beloved for almost every holiday!

These Deviled Eggs are true classics - creamy and perfectly seasoned with Dijon mustard and finished with smoked paprika. Instant Pot instructions included.

This updated version of gluten free green bean casserole is full of mushrooms, caramelized onions, and creamy cheese. Classic flavors reimagined make for a fun new holiday treat.
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Gluten Free Grown Up Green Bean Casserole

This updated version of gluten free green bean casserole is full of mushrooms, caramelized onions, and creamy cheese. Classic flavors reimagined make for a fun new holiday treat.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 10
Author Mirlandra Neuneker

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds frozen whole green beans thawed
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 16 oz cremini or baby Portobello mushrooms
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
  • 2 tsp. balsamic vinegar optional see note
  • 3/4 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 large sweet onion sliced
  • 3 Tbsp. salted butter
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 3 Tbsp. milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
  2. Cut the mushrooms into halves or if they are larger into quarters. Combine with thawed and drained green beans in a 9”x13” casserole dish.
  3. In a small bowl whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic (if using) and pepper. Drizzle over the bean mixture.
  4. Roast beans, uncovered for 30 minutes stirring once half way through.
  5. While the beans are roasting, prepare the onions.
  6. Trim the ends of the onion and remove the skin layers. Cut in half and slice each half into thin slices.
  7. Melt butter in a large skillet and add onions and salt. Cook stirring frequently until the onions start to soften. Turn the heat down to medium-low and put the lid on for about 10 more minutes until the onions are tender. Sprinkle with a bit of extra black pepper if desired and remove from heat.
  8. Microwave the cream cheese until it is very soft and starting to melt, about 30 seconds. In a medium mixing bowl beat together softened cream cheese, parmesan cheese and milk with a hand mixer on medium speed.
  9. When the beans have cooked 30 minutes and are tender crisp remove from oven and scatter the onions on top. Spoon mounds of the cheese mixture over the beans and return to the oven for 6-8 minutes until heated through.

Recipe Notes

Adding the balsamic vinegar gives the beans a bright grown up flavor that some people love. If you do not like balsamic vinegar omit it. My favorite way to have this is without the vinegar.

If you wish to use fresh green beans I suggest giving them a quick blanch in boiling water just to take the raw edge off before roasting.

This updated version of gluten free green bean casserole is full of mushrooms, caramelized onions, and creamy cheese. Classic flavors reimagined make for a fun new holiday treat.

Adapted from here.

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Slow Cooker Creamed Corn

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Creamed corn is the perfect side dish for dinner or the holidays. This rich and creamy slow cooker version only takes five minutes to throw together.

Creamed corn is the perfect side dish for dinner or the holidays. This rich and creamy slow cooker version only takes five minutes to throw together.

This creamed corn is one of my favorite new recipes from 2017!  It is a magic blend of sweet corn, rich cream cheese sauce and a hint of spice.  I can’t resist it!  And of course I love that I can just throw it in the slow cooker and forget about it.

The simplicity (and the lack of stove space required) makes this side dish perfect for big holiday meals. Creamed corn goes great with all the main course meats like turkey, ham and even roast beef!  If you are feeding a crowd don’t be afraid to double or even quadruple the recipe.  Just remember to leave some extra time if you load up your crock pot with a few extra batches.

Do make sure to use  high quality frozen corn.  It should have nice firm kernels with great flavor.  No surprises here – great ingredients make great food.

Have a great week guys.  Thanks for stopping by to cook with me!

Tools In This Post:  Unless you use your Crock Pot every single day a basic model is all you need.  I have one like this that has some programmable functions.  It should cost $20-$50.  If you take yours with you a lot get the latches to help keep it closed!

Creamed Corn is a great Thanksgiving side.  Still looking for the perfect turkey recipe?  I’ve got you covered!

Creamed corn is the perfect side dish for dinner or the holidays. This rich and creamy slow cooker version only takes five minutes to throw together.
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Slow Cooker Creamed Corn

Creamed corn is the perfect side dish for dinner or the holidays. This rich and creamy slow cooker version only takes five minutes to throw together.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 550 kcal
Author Mirlandra

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds sweet corn frozen
  • 8 oz cream cheese cubed
  • 1/3 cup butter
  • 1-2 tsp. Cajun seasoning
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  1. Thaw corn in fridge or under running water and then drain.
  2. Combine all the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until hot through.
  3. Stir well. Taste for salt and serve.
Nutrition Facts
Slow Cooker Creamed Corn
Amount Per Serving
Calories 550 Calories from Fat 342
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 38g 58%
Saturated Fat 21g 105%
Cholesterol 103mg 34%
Sodium 320mg 13%
Potassium 600mg 17%
Total Carbohydrates 50g 17%
Dietary Fiber 5g 20%
Sugars 12g
Protein 11g 22%
Vitamin A 48.8%
Vitamin C 15.1%
Calcium 7%
Iron 8.3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Creamed corn is the perfect side dish for dinner or the holidays. This rich and creamy slow cooker version only takes five minutes to throw together.

✕

Free Simple Weeknight Meal Plan

Creamy chicken and rice casserole 113 by 170 for email forms

Sign up here for your free plan and start rocking dinner!

We won't send you spammy emails. Just amazing cooking ideas! Powered by ConvertKit