Lemons Galore

This year our lemon tree produced so many lemons that we didn't know what to do with all of them! We shared dozens with neighbors and juiced some to save for recipes later.  We still have some on our tree, so this morning I decided to make lemon muffins for breakfast.  I found a great recipe by +Kitchn and it turned out wonderfully!

The Most Lemony Lemon Muffin Recipe

Let us know how yours turn out!

The Perfect Mashed Potatoes

How do I get my mashed potatoes to be fluffy and not gummy?  

After much research, here are a few suggestions that may help.  

1.  Do not overcook the potatoes.  

Wash them, peel them (if desired), and cut them into equal sized cubes.  Boil them until they are soft, but not falling apart.

2.  Be sure to drain them completely.  

3.  Mash potatoes gently with a masher, not a mixer or food processor.  

Mashing too vigorously will activate the starch cells and make your potatoes look like glue.

4.  Add butter and milk and fold into the mashed potatoes.  

You can gently mash the potatoes more at this point if you need a smoother consistency.

Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Spice Rubbed Grilled Pork Chops

I used this recipe for pork tenderloin and it turned out delicious!  Remember to cook pork until it is 145 degrees F.  At this temperature it will cook the pork, but it will have a slightly pink center.  The pork will also remain juicy and not dry.  Thanks +Epicurious for another great recipe!

Bacon Asparagus Pizza

  

All Things Green

Tonight we made Bacon Asparagus Pizza and it was really yummy!  We are excited to make it for our first kids cooking class at the YMCA on March 6th!  

One way to simplify this recipe when you want to cook, but have a busy week is to

use Boboli pre-made bread with store bought marinara or pizza sauce.

Bacon Asparagus Pizza Recipe 

Another alteration to this recipe could be to make a Club Pizza

with chicken, asparagus, and bacon.

Club Pizza Recipe

Give these a try and let us know what you think! Happy cooking!

Cooking Classes at the YMCA

 We are so excited to announce our newest cooking venture!  In the Kitchens will be holding classes at the Centennial Hills YMCA starting this March. The first session (March 6, 13, 20, 27) will begin on Monday March 6th from 5:00-6:30 pm.  Children will learn how to use kitchen appliances and tools safely and confidently.  Children will also learn about healthy eating and well balanced meals.  Come join us to find out what a great experience cooking can be!  Call the YMCA to register at 702-478-9622 during regular business hours.  If you have any additional questions, contact us at www.inthekitchensus@gmail.com  See our March menu below.

  

March Menu

All Things Green

Cooking with green foods doesn't always appeal to children,  despite how healthy and nutritious they are. Let us show you how to make asparagus, broccoli, basil, and green peppers tasty for those picky eaters in your family.

Asparagus Guacamole with Bacon Asparagus Pizza

Broccoli Lo Mein

Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto

Pepper Rings with Eggs

Cauliflower Couscous

The best thing about this cauliflower couscous is you can change the flavors to your liking.
I steamed the cauliflower in chicken broth and the flavor was divine.  It is the perfect addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 1-2 heads cauliflower (one large head or two small), totaling about 3 lbs., or 2 lbs. cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup water ( I used broth)

Optional Ingredients

• Salt and black pepper
• 1 1/2 tbsp butter or margarine
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Parmesan cheese, sauteed vegetables, dried fruits, spices or other add-ins

Directions:

Grate the cauliflower using a grater or a food processor.  Place the grated cauliflower into a medium sauce pan of boiling water or broth.  Cover with a lid and let steam for 5-7 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed.  Fluff with a fork.  Add any other flavors you wish at this time.

Cookie or Cookie Bar?

My vote is for the cookie bar!  My daughter came home from school on Friday wanting to make a dessert for my husband's work party. She searched the internet for awhile looking for the perfect dessert recipe with the limited ingredients we had in our refrigerator. It was the end of a busy week and time to go to the grocery!  She finally found a cookie bar recipe from +Food Network .  She began gathering the ingredients and measuring each one carefully.  She followed each direction - reading and rereading to be sure she made no mistakes.  I sat there watching feeling proud of what I had taught her and proud  of her for being independent and able  to create this all on her own.  I am excited to see what cooking adventures will follow for her in the kitchen!

Cookie Bar Recipe