Oh That We Could Always See

Christmas Eve Dinner

Crock pot mashed potatoes, Giblet Gravy, Herb Roasted Turkey, Citrus Cranberry relish, Sausage Cornbread dressing, Green Bean Casserole, Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprout with walnuts and garlic

Traditional Green Bean Bake

Cornbread Sausage Stuffing

Ye Ole Herb Buttered Roasted Turkey

morning prep of stuffing with mushrooms and herbs

Snacks of Pesto Shrimp Toasties - Delightful!

Too tired to settle on a recipe, I invented these quick and super easy bites.  Simply cut a baguette into coins, spread on a baking sheet, brush with pesto, add a bit of Parmesan and Mozzarella cheese, 1-2 uncooked shrimp on each simply seasoned with salt and red pepper flakes.  Bake for 8-10 minutes and finish with drops of fresh pesto and squeeze of lemon. These are highly
 addictive.  It's okay to use prepared pesto to save time like I did. 

Jalapeno Chorizo bites and fresh hot sauce
I make these for most holidays because in my opinion that cheap little pepper becomes infused with high-end taste when roasted.  Split in half, (par boil for just a minute to soften) drain and dry.  Brush the insides of the peppers with olive oil, lightly salt and pepper beforehand.  Then add a mixture of shredded cheese of choice (mixing two is better), tiny diced chorizo, minced garlic and onion, salt and pepper.  Into a 350 degree oven until soft and bubbly.  Double down tip:  To fancy these up, you could drizzle on crema and top with sprinkles of Cotija cheese and cilantro. Serve lime wedges on the side for squeezing.  Leave the tail on for picking up like a spoon.  

When motivated by special food, it's surprising how resourceful and energetic one can be. 

Pecan Pie with freshly Whipped Cream

Freedom's Just Another Word for Nothing Left to Lose

This 4th of July I celebrated my independence by waking up and riding directly to work. I customer serviced some nice, some ridiculously bitter 'old trolls and then rode back home.

I had worked a major busy Sunday the day before while it felt like the whole city was at the beach. Seemed like the big Fourth of July weekend was turning out to be a dud firecracker for me.

Determined to have me a celebration I came home and made a simple but festive meal. Started off with my version of jalapeno poppers as an appetizer. Par boiled halved jalapenos stuffed with jack cheese, chorizo and garlic, baked until soft and melty. A green apple, arugula, cucumber salad with lime vinaigrette. A keeper! Best thing ever. I found that idea on some medical website. Thin steak sandwiches on toasted Italian bread with avocado and grilled onions.

It wasn't fireworks, barbecue, the beach, cold beers, fun in the sun 4th of July. I wasn't up for any of that nonsense anyway really. I just wanted some peace. Nothin' ain't worth nothing but its free.