Weekly Roundup - Living On Nothing Edition [Survival Today

Dollmaker’s Journey Customer Connection newsletter is a free e-mail
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snipped......

[If you visit the links in this newsletter, always dig around and find the free pattern, there is one on most doll sites....

And they have 2 sales going on their site for supplies and books......

granny]

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EXPENSIVE WRAPPING PAPER FOR PENNIES

When Mary Ann and I went to our Doll Bee Christmas Party last week, we
received lovely gifts from Julie Booth wrapped in gold tissue paper.
The paper looked expensive because Julie had crumpled it and then
smoothed it out, creating an antique looking paper. She tied the gift
with tan paper twist cord that she had opened (it opens about 1” wide)
and flattened. If you can’t find metallic gold tissue paper, use gold
ink to stamp a design on regular tissue paper and then crumple it.

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STAND-ALONE DOLLS – A WEIGHTING MATTER
By Bonnie B. Lewis

At our last Doll Bee the question was raised on how to create stand-
alone dolls using weights in the feet. Mary Ann attended a class with
Colleen Babcock who used shot pellets (e.g. stainless steel BBs) stuck
to duck tape which was wrapped around a wire armature foot. The foot
was then wrapped with batting, skinned, and a doll was created.
Caution: don’t use lead shot, which can cause lead poisoning and
health problems in small children.

For a larger doll, use sturdy shoes from the baby department, and fill
the bottom of the shoe or base with something heavy. If the doll is
for display only, you can even fill the shoes with plaster of Paris.
Following are some things I have used successfully.

I have weighted dolls with pennies, washers, drapery and fishing
tackle weights. To use these I usually tape or sew the items to the
inside of a shoe sole or inside the bottom of a stump doll base.

To make a porcelain doll feel real and weigh 5 pounds (like a newborn
life-size doll) I filled the cloth body with plastic pellets available
at most fabric and craft stores. However, these pellets, although
marvelous for positioning the doll in different poses, are not as
heavy as the other things mentioned. For a smaller doll I filled it
with sandbox sand from the hardware store. This sand is preferable
because it has been sterilized and doesn’t contain unpleasant
surprises.

If you wish to use sand, pea gravel (small smooth rocks used in
landscaping), or aquarium gravel, it helps to place the small loose
items in a Ziploc plastic bag or sew a fabric bean bag, fill it, sew
it closed, and place it inside the doll.

Once upon a time people used wheat, rice, and dried beans inside dolls
for weight. We don’t recommend this. If the doll gets wet or it is in
a humid climate, the grains can sprout, rot or mildew. Also, rodents
are a problem when food is used. I noticed a doll I bought in Turkey
used candy sprinkles for fake grain in pots. Today the candy is all
gone, eaten by tiny bugs.

Another recommendation is to use fine glass beads usually found in
auto stores. These are used for sandblasting and come in different
sizes (grits). They are cheap, heavy, and smooth. Put them in a bean
bag before placing them inside the doll.

Last but not least, use rocks. I was making Nambi, a Ugandan jungle
elf sitting on a mushroom knitting fairy wings from moonbeams,
dewdrops, and spider silk. She needed something heavy inside her
bottom so she could balance on top of a large mushroom. Her body was
made from a paper Mache dress form, although her arms, legs, and head
were fabric. I filled her body with rocks from my patio, poured
Paverpol on top, and let it set. The Paverpol glued the rocks to the
body so they wouldn’t rattle when the doll was moved and created a
satisfactory solution.

We would love to hear about creative solutions you have used. Please
email your suggestions to Bonnie at EnchantedR@aol.com and we will
mention them in a future newsletter.

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CHALLENGES/COMPETITIONS

ALL DOLLED UP: Beaded Art Doll Competition
ON-LINE Voting Has Begun:
Voting for our 6 semi-finalists ends 1/15/10
http://www.landofodds.com/store/alldolledup2009contest.htm

See the new Hoffman Challenge fabric for 2010 here:
http://www.equilter.com/cgi-bin/webc.cgi/st_main.html?catid=277

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JUST FOR FUN – KISSING COOKIES

When Bonnie was a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-
day Saints in New England in 1967 she met a delightful woman who baked
special cookies for her local grocery stores and farm markets. Her
name was Mrs. Kelly from Danvers, Massachusetts, and she shared some
of her secret recipes. Here is one of Bonnie’s favorites. The secret
is that a Hershey kiss is buried inside the dough, creating a tasty
surprise. They are called kissing cookies.

Kissing Cookies

5-3/4 oz. package chocolate candy kisses
(Doubled recipe needs 84 kisses – 14 oz. bag = 84 kisses)
1 cup margarine
1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar (powdered sugar)
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups flour
1 cup chopped walnuts

In large bowl soften margarine at medium speed with mixer. Mix in
sugar. Add vanilla. Beat until fluffy. Fold in nuts and flour and
mix well. Divide dough into 40 parts. Place dough around cookies,
covering kisses with dough. Place on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake
for 10-15 minutes (until light brown) in 375° F. oven. Roll in
confectioner’s sugar. Cool on wire rack, then roll in confectioner’s
sugar again.

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COOKING TIPS FROM BONNIE

As I was making cookies this year for the holidays, my daughter-in-law
told me I needed to pass along these two cooking tips that I learned
long ago.

1. When rolling out dough or doing something else that will really
mess up your counters, lightly wet down the counter with a clean
sponge. Then put a large piece of freezer paper (paper side down) on
the water. The paper will stick to the moist surface, and the waxed
surface enables you to roll out bread, cookie dough or rolls easily.
Just oil or flour surface first. When finished, throw away paper and
you have a clean counter.

2. When you make cookies, cool them on a doubled sheet of newspaper
instead of cooling racks. The paper absorbs excess oils on the bottom
of the cookie, which prevents rancidity and helps the cookies last
longer. I used to worry about newsprint, but then I saw a TV show
where they wrap new babies in newsprint in an emergency situation.
They said that newspaper (inside sheets) were more sterile than most
other items you could grab. I do try and let the black print be on
top, rather than a lot of colored pictures. I don’t know why, it just
seems safer.

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UPCOMING EVENTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS

July 17 – 21, 2010 – 23rd Annual National Doll Festival
Sheraton Chicago Hotel and Towers, Chicago, Illinois

To save yourself time and energy, get all the details on upcoming doll
related events at
CLOTH DOLL CONNECTION: http://clothdollconnection.com/

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SPECIAL GIFTS FOR YOU

Free Victorian Lady Ornament tutorial and pattern from Stephanie
Novatski
http://www.novasblossoms.com
(Hint: print pattern portrait format and pictures in landscape format)
See more of Stephanie’s amazing patterns at http://dollmakersjourney.com/novatski.html

Ree from Tipsy Teacup Creations posted directions on her website
showing how to create thick yarn ringlet curls on the sewing machine
using a hairpin lace loom (available at http://dollmakersjourney.com/supplies.html)
See her pictorial at http://reepeas.blogspot.com/

New Fun Cloth Santa Pattern! (Download or Printed) by Judi Ward
http://dollnetmarket.com/product.php?productid=218

In Guatemala kids tell their worries to Worry Dolls and tuck them
under their pillows. Make some with your children out of clothespins,
scraps and yarn.
http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/crafts-by-type/dolls-toys/doll-crafts/worry-dolls-665252/

And from Crafty College – some oldies but goodies

Web of Angels - Free Angel Crafts
http://craftycollege.com/webofangels/

Free Holiday Crafts - Crafty Visions Newsletter
http://wwvisions.com/christmas_crafts/

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NEW PATTERNS/BOOKS/CD-ROMs/DVDs/MOLDS

Wait until you see the magnificent legs on “Stiletto” – BUNNY GOODE’S
newest pattern! This doll really rocks! http://dollmakersjourney.com/goode.html

We finally have KAT LEE’S “Flamingo Santa” – and just like all of
KAT’S patterns her extremely detailed instructions are just like
taking an expensive course. You are going to love her whimsical
detail. http://dollmakersjourney.com/lees.html

This month we’re welcoming two wonderful new designers to our
Dollmakers Journey family. If you are looking for sophisticated doll
body construction then you are going to love any one of the four
fantastic fairy patterns from the United Kingdom’s CASSIE RAFFERTY.
With innovative techniques and superb pattern presentation CASSIE’S
designs are sure to enhance your doll making skills. Click here to
meet “Flame”, “Lillum”, “Silene” and “Viola”. http://dollmakersjourney.com/rafferty.html

“Icarus” is the premier pattern from Australia’s SHIRLEY GIDDY and we
think it’s a winner! Shirley has packed this pattern with detailed
instruction and outstanding illustrations that will guide you through
the creation of this gentle elf. We can’t wait to see what SHIRLEY
has on the drawing board for her next pattern! http://dollmakersjourney.com/giddy.html

Well there’s no doubt about it, CYNTHIA SIEVING is definitely on a
creative roll! Her newest offering is ‘Well Wishers”. Have you ever
wanted to make a doll for someone just because? CYNDY has imagined
the perfect character to embody your good wishes. Take a look and see
what we mean. http://dollmakersjourney.com/sieving.html

Can you believe it - JILL MAAS has released yet another new pattern!
“City Girls” step out of the pages of JILL’S 2009 Calendar. They are
colorful, quick and easy a winning combination for sure.
http://dollmakersjourney.com/maas.html

We’ve been oohing and aahing over SUZETTE RUGOLO’S beautiful and
elegant “Boudoir Doll” an enchanting addition to any boudoir. Simple
fabric variations will give you a wide array of looks that
would suit any bedchamber. http://dollmakersjourney.com/rugolo.html

We thought that after you’ve finished needle felting your doll’s hair
your might like to learn about other exciting ways to use your felting
needles. “FAST, FUN & EASY NEEDLE FELTING” by Lynne Farris will guide
you through the exploration of 8 different techniques that are sure to
get your creative juices flowing. http://dollmakersjourney.com/books.html

We just fell in love with “WILD AND WONDERFUL FLEECE ANIMALS” by Linda
Carr. Each of the 20 projects is shown in color photos with
variations and the book has a special pocket with full size pattern
pieces and templates. You won’t be able to stop at one! (Bonnie’s
granddaughter, age 11, fell in love with the book and made the duck
for her baby sister. We even bought polar fleece in lots of colors to
make all the animals for next year!)
http://dollmakersjourney.com/books.html

We have three new holiday patterns for your enjoyment. “Frosty
Fifties” and “Follow the Star” are two wonderful snowman variations by
MAUREEN MILLS. http://dollmakersjourney.com/mills.html
“Goe the Reindeer” from ELAINE LEGROS is our very first reindeer
pattern and he would be a terrific addition to any holiday décor.
http://dollmakersjourney.com/legros.html

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STUFFING TIP

Judi Ward writes: I just went to Home Depot for light bulbs and found
my annual “ stuffing treasure”. I often find great stuffing during the
Christmas season. It is always marketed as table snow etc.
This time it is called “Home Accents Snow Cover.” It was $3.98 for
a pound and it is excellent stuffing! It streams and stuffs smoothly.
I tried in an arm to be sure....It is flame retardant and made in the
USA! It has no maker on it. Just says Distributed by Home Depot
U.S.A. Inc. 2455 Paces Ferry Rd, N.W.
Atlanta Ga. 30339 If you need stuffing this is a great one!

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SUPPLIES

We’ve been waiting for Alex Anderson’s “4-in-1 Essential Sewing Tool”
for quite some time and they have finally arrived! You are just going
to love this versatile, handmade tool that will not roll off your
sewing table. Click here to check it out – another fabulous gift
idea! http://dollmakersjourney.com/supplies.html

The fabrics we have been waiting for are finally starting to arrive.
We now have the Chamois Craft Velour, Nude Lycra and African Dark
Ethnic Fabric back in stock and we have a huge supply of the Doll Face
Pink Craft Velour. http://dollmakersjourney.com/fabrics.html

We’ve added two new shades of Craft Fur a yummy Pale Pink and a
bright Orange for your more colorful characters. http://dollmakersjourney.com/hair.html#fur

We now have rolls of 1/4” wide STITCH WITCHERY that will making fusing
hems a breeze as well as adding embellishments and much more. The 3”
doll glasses are also back in stock. http://dollmakersjourney.com/supplies.html

Check out our “Giant Ironing & Craft Sheet” – a 12’ x 18” Teflon
coated sheet for fusing Angelina Fiber and much, much more and the
perfect gift for any artist/crafter. Read all about it here –
http://dollmakersjourney.com/supplies.html

“Freezer Paper Sheets” back in stock. http://dollmakersjourney.com/supplies.html

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TREETOP ANGEL by Meo Feroy

I just wanted to take a moment to share with you a method of
constructing an unusual angel for your tree top. I used my
Bottomtree Biddy pattern for the head and arms/hands. Instead of
attaching them to the stump as described in the pattern I cut off the
bottom of a plastic soda bottle (twenty oz. size) and used that as the
base. If you make her dress long and flowing maybe even with an over
drape of gauze or lace and attach wings you have a totally unique tree
top angel. With the bottom cut out of the plastic bottle it slips
very nicely on to the top of your tree. An added plus...if you use
those little bright lights on your tree you can insert some of the
lights under the plastic bottle and they shine through the clear
plastic and illuminate your angel.
You can see this and more of her patterns at: http://dollmakersjourney.com/stuffedmagic.html

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NEWS FROM THE HOME FRONT

Bonnie wrote this newsletter while waiting for the snowstorm of the
decade (we are supposed to get 1-2 feet of snow tonight and tomorrow.)
She finished three dolls for her granddaughters and only has four more
to go. The three dolls are Thumbelina, Little Red Riding Hood, and a
Punk Rocker, all made from the same pattern with very different hair,
faces, and costumes. The original doll was the Carry-Me Doll by Cindy
Bigelow from Cloth Doll Magazine 4-2. She also crocheted peppermint
hats, scarves, sweaters and blankets for some Webkinz stuffed animals
using free patterns on the internet. Last week her husband slipped in
the bathroom and broke his left leg in two places. He now has a hard
cast, a walker, wheel chair, and needs lots of help, since he isn’t
allowed to put any weight on his foot for 8 weeks. This will be a very
different Christmas.

Mary Ann

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WEBSITES:

Lisa Lichtenfels created a wonderful permanent exhibit in the Erie Art
Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania. The exhibit is called The Avalon Diner.
It includes a small room with a counter and several booths (also made
by her) filled with lifesize dolls. I had a class from Lisa, and she
uses layers of nylon stockings over armatures and batting to create
most of her characters with incredible needle sculpted faces. Lisa is
a NIADA artist (National Institute of American Doll Artists). If you
ever get a chance to attend a NIADA convention and hear her speak, do
it.
http://www.erieartmuseum.org/exhibits/permanent/avalon/index.html

Lisa is also featured in a DVD/video called “The Art of the
Dollmaker”. Dru Esslinger was the inspiration for it. It features more
than 40 dollmakers. You can read more about it and order it here:
http://www.drusilla.com/TheDoll.htm

******************************
We’d love to hear your thoughts about our Customer Connection
newsletter.

Contact the editor Bonnie B. Lewis at EnchantedR@aol.com with any
comments, suggestions, etc.
Please feel free to pass this newsletter on to any of your friends.
Help us spread the word about Dollmaker’s Journey! All we ask is that
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Thanks!

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Think of all the jars you could fill, the next time you walk past a lawn, if that was a food garden.

I choose Mulberry trees, for shade and the berries on them, as they can be used for anything a berry is used for and live for years.

At least plant flowers the bees will come to.

Or that is how I feel about the game.

Healthy recipes:

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes_menus/collections/healthy_breakfast_recipes?utm_source=EWTWNL

Healthy Breakfast Recipes: Weekend Breakfast and Brunch
Baked Apple-Cinnamon French Toast
This baked apple-cinnamon French toast can be prepared in advance and then simply...
Blueberry-Ricotta Pancakes
Serve these light pancakes with our Chunky Blueberry Sauce, maple syrup or honey....
Chile, Potato & Cheese Omelet
Serve topped with salsa. Accompany with warmed flour tortillas and a grated carrot...
Cranberry Pancakes
Start your day off right with these easy pancakes, packed with cranberry’s sour...
French Toast Pudding with Winter Fruits
Crisp French toast tops a fragrant compote of apples, pears and prunes for a great...
Fruit-Filled Crepes
This dessert or special brunch dish is great for entertaining because it can be made...
Multi-Grain Waffles
Traditional waffles are a butter-laden, high-carb indulgence, but they make the...
Red Pepper & Goat Cheese Frittata
A frittata is a baked omelet, far easier because it lacks that pesky step of...
Spinach & Tomato Omelet
This colorful, flavorful omelet packs two servings of vegetables. Now that’s...
Overnight Oatmeal
Here is an easy way to serve a crowd a hearty breakfast before facing the elements...

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes_menus/collections/cheap_mexican_recipes

Weekly Harvest Newsletter

Sustainable Agriculture News Briefs - December 23, 2009

Weekly sustainable agriculture news and resources gleaned from the Internet by NCAT staff for the ATTRA - National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service Web site. The Weekly Harvest Newsletter is also available online.

Share The Harvest: Please forward this newsletter to friends and colleagues who might be interested in the latest sustainable agriculture news, funding opportunities, and events.

News & Resources
* Project to Assist Farmers With High Tunnel Establishment
* Report Compares Local Vs. Non-local Food Prices
* Ohio Website to Help Beginning Farmers
* Organic Crop Rotation Manual Now Available
* Report Available on Food Policy Councils
* Farm Aid Announces Grant Awards

Funding Opportunities
* Secondary Education, Two-Year Postsecondary Education, and Agriculture in the K-12 Classroom Challenge Grants
* Welch’s Harvest Teacher Grants
* Maine Organic Farmer Loan

Coming Events
* ACEEE Forum on Energy Efficiency in Agriculture
* Kentucky Small Ruminant Grazing Conference
* Mid America Fruit Growers Conference

News & Resources

Project to Assist Farmers With High Tunnel Establishment
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB/.cmd/ad/.ar/sa.retrievecontent/.c/6_2_1UH/.ce/7_2_5JM/.p/5_2_4TQ/.d/1/_th/J_2_9D/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?PC_7_2_5JM_contentid=2009%2F12%2F0617.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NE
Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan announced a new pilot project under the ‘Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food’ initiative for farmers to establish high tunnels — also known as hoop houses — to increase the availability of locally grown produce in a conservation-friendly way. The 3-year, 38-state study will verify if high tunnels are effective in reducing pesticide use, keeping vital nutrients in the soil, extending the growing season, increasing yields, and providing other benefits to growers. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will provide financial assistance for the project through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the EQIP Organic Initiative, and the Agricultural Management Assistance program. NRCS will fund one high tunnel per farm.

Report Compares Local Vs. Non-local Food Prices
http://www.leopold.iastate.edu/news/newsreleases/2009/121409_prices.html
If you think local foods are more expensive than their conventional counterparts, think again. Research conducted last summer by the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture shows few differences in price for Iowa-grown vegetables, eggs and meat when compared to similar non-local products. ‘We wanted to look at prices for some of the fresh foods that might be found in a typical Iowan’s shopping cart,’ said Rich Pirog, Leopold Center associate director who collaborated on the study with Iowa State University graduate student Nick McCann. ‘We found that during peak season, produce items at farmers’ markets were very competitive and in several cases lower than prices for the same non-local items found at supermarkets.’ For more details, including comparative charts and tables, see the new report, ‘Is Local Food More Expensive? A Consumer Price Perspective on Local and Non-Local Foods Purchased in Iowa.’ (http://www.leopold.iastate.edu/pubs/staff/prices.html)

Ohio Website to Help Beginning Farmers
http://www.extension.org/pages/Web_Site_Helps_Beginning_Farmers
Beginfarmingohio.org is supported by an alliance of five agricultural organizations: Ohio State University Extension, the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association, Cuyahoga Countryside Conservancy, the Ohio Department of Agriculture, and the Organic Food and Farming Education and Research Program. The resource tool is designed to guide people of all ages through the process of launching a farming career — whether it’s a young person with no farming experience, someone making a mid-career change into agriculture, or a retiree interested in a small farm operation. The Web site provides links to news, resources, farmer profiles and contact information.

Organic Crop Rotation Manual Now Available
http://www.sare.org/publications/croprotation.htm
‘Crop Rotation on Organic Farms: A Planning Manual’ provides an in-depth review of the applications of crop rotation including improving soil quality and health, and managing pests, diseases, and weeds. Consulting with expert organic farmers, the authors share rotation strategies that can be applied under various field conditions and with a wide range of crops. Published by the Natural Resource, Agriculture and Engineering Service (NRAES) and funded in part by SARE, the book includes instructions for making rotation planning maps and discusses the transition to organic farming.

Report Available on Food Policy Councils
http://www.foodfirst.org/en/foodpolicycouncils-lessons
A new report from Food First and the Community Food Security Coalition highlights a useful tool that city, state and local governments can use to fight hunger, diet-related diseases and other symptoms of a failing food system. Food Policy Councils: Lessons Learned (PDF/3MB) (http://www.foodfirst.org/files/pdf/Food%20Policy%20Councils%20Report%20small.pdf) is based on an in-depth survey of 48 Food Policy Councils established in North America over the past 30 years. The report contains tips and case studies for successful councils, warns of common red flags, and includes ample resources for citizens and local governments who may be interested in establishing or helping run a Food Policy Council. Food Policy Councils are advisory boards that bring together representatives of different food system sectors, from farm to fork to recycling, and different walks of life, including neighborhood leaders, local business and concerned citizens. They analyze problems around food, agriculture, diet, nutrition, hunger, and economic development as part of a holistic food system in their local area, and make recommendations on ways to solve those problems.

Farm Aid Announces Grant Awards
http://www.farmaid.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qlI5IhNVJsE&b=2792875&content_id=%7B70CBEA78-420D-4A4D-95BD-BCD1E210689C%7D&notoc=1
Farm Aid announced that 72 family farm and rural service organizations working to strengthen family farm agriculture nationwide received $503,500 from its grant program during 2009. Farm Aid’s grant making is one aspect of its programming to keep family farmers on the land, growing good food for all. In addition, Farm Aid’s program work includes public education to increase demand for family farm food and advocating for policy that serves farmers and consumers alike.

> More Breaking News (http://attra.ncat.org/news/)

Funding Opportunities

Secondary Education, Two-Year Postsecondary Education, and Agriculture in the K-12 Classroom Challenge Grants
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=yQ36LvpWDvQGyVnLb9yR9vXFPNBXWgrlKNycnDQtPFJfcfBsTJbL!-1299818899?oppId=49638&mode=VIEW
The Secondary Education, Two-Year Postsecondary Education, and Agriculture in the K-12 Classroom Challenge Grants (SPECA) program seeks to: (a) promote and strengthen secondary education and two-year postsecondary education in agriscience and agribusiness in order to help ensure the existence in the United States of a qualified workforce to serve the food and agricultural sciences system; and (b) promote complementary and synergistic linkages among secondary, two-year postsecondary, and higher education programs in the food and agricultural sciences in order to advance excellence in education and encourage more young Americans to pursue and complete a baccalaureate or higher degree in the food and agricultural sciences.
Proposals are due January 15, 2010.

Welch’s Harvest Teacher Grants
http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3752777
Two schools in every state will be selected to receive a Welch’s Harvest Grant. Winning schools will receive a customized indoor or outdoor garden package filled with a variety of tools, seeds, educational materials, and more.
Proposals are due February 6, 2010.

Maine Organic Farmer Loan
http://www.mofga.org/Programs/OrganicFarmerLoanFund/tabid/1058/Default.aspx
This fund is intended particularly to help organic farmers working on establishing a credit history for their farms. Funds, generally in amounts of $5,000 to $20,000, may be used for working capital or farm equipment, and will be available to: Maine Organic Farmers & Gardeners Association-certified organic farmers; farmers transitioning to organic production; and current participants and graduates of MOFGA’s Journeyperson Program.
Proposals are due January 29, 2010.

> More Funding Opportunities (http://attra.ncat.org/funding/)

Coming Events

ACEEE Forum on Energy Efficiency in Agriculture
http://www.aceee.org/conf/10ag/index.htm
February 7-10, 2010
Madison, Wisconsin
In order to expand the dialogue about the role of energy efficiency in agriculture, ACEEE is organizing its third conference to explore this subject, the Forum on Energy Efficiency in Agriculture. The “Ag Forum” is a successful tool for bringing together a diverse group of participants — in some cases, groups without prior relationships — to raise awareness, share information, form new collaborations, and establish new visions regarding policy and program opportunities to increase energy efficiency on farms and ranches, and in rural communities.

Kentucky Small Ruminant Grazing Conference
http://www.extension.org/pages/Small_Ruminant_Grazing_Conference_Jan._12_in_Lexington
January 12, 2010
Lexington, Kentucky
The conference is divided into four main areas including nutrition, grazing management, producer presentations and an economic and marketing outlook.

Mid America Fruit Growers Conference
http://www.midamericafruit.org/
January 12-14, 2010
Nebraska City, Nebraska
Tuesday’s session will be a bus tour. Wednesday and Thursday’s sessions will emphasis a unique blend of presentations on growing tree fruits, small fruits, and marketing. These lectures will be informative and helpful no matter the size of your operation.

>More Events (http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/)

ATTRA Organic Small Grains Webinar Now Available

A 90-minute webinar produced by staff working on the ATTRA project is now available for viewing on the ATTRA website (http://www.attra.ncat.org/video/#small_grains).

New & Updated Publications

Organic System Plans: Livestock Production
http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/new_pubs.php/2009/11/30/organic_system_plans_livestock_productio

Aquaculture Enterprises: Considerations and Strategies
http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/new_pubs.php/2009/11/18/aquaculture_enterprises_considerations_a_1

Building Sustainable Places
http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/new_pubs.php/2009/11/11/building_sustainable_places

Question of the Week

What information can you give me on growing dahlias for cut flowers?
http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/question.php/2009/12/21/what_information_can_you_give_me_on_grow_2

Website of the Week

Sustainable Farming Internships and Apprenticeships
http://attra.ncat.org/wow/

Ask a Sustainable Agriculture Expert

Submit questions to our professional staff online
http://attra.ncat.org/ask.php

ATTRA Spanish Newsletter

Subscribe to Cosecha Mensual (http://attra.ncat.org/espanol/boletin.php)
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12 Pasta Recipe Pleasers

Posted By TipNut On October 16, 2008 @ 1:03 pm In Recipes | 4 Comments

I know I’m not the only one with a weak spot for pasta . Creamy & cheesy dishes, chunky pastas with bites of sausage or lightly flavored noodles–they’re all delicious to me. Lots to choose from in this week’s Recipe Hit List, many are simple to prepare and fuss free. Here’s what I found on the net this week:

Recipe Hit List: 12 Pasta Pleasers
*Note: Descriptions below are quotes from the recipe sites

1. Pasta with Sausage, Basil and Mustard [1]: In matching spicy sausage with a creamy mustard sauce and fragrant basil, British cookbook author Nigel Slater created a quick pasta supper with warm, mildly spicy flavors, perfect for a cool fall or winter evening. Recipe found at The Bitten Word.

2. Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells [2]: Ever have one of those weeks when you wished you could have something prepared in advance to be baked later? Well if your week is as busy as mine, then this recipe is a perfect option. The entire pan can be wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You may need to add a few additional minutes to the cooking time. This dish can also be easily stored in the freezer for up to a month. You will also need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Recipe found at Culinary Cory.

3. Recipe: Velvety Broccoli and Feta Pasta [3]: this pasta sauce is velvety-rich and creamy, plus nubby with flecks of feta cheese. And yet it has very little fat and dairy, aside from the feta, and nearly all of its body comes from steamed and blended broccoli. And lest you think that this is a dieter’s compromise of a pasta sauce, we’ll tell you the broccoli is sautéed with onion, garlic, and Italian parsley, and spun with lemon juice for a fantastically tangy and aromatic pasta dish. We love it! Recipe found at The Kitchn.

4. Butternutty Mac and Cheese [4]: My husband ate this dish happily. “Is there something in this that I don’t like?” he asked. “I don’t know”, I said “is there?” When he was done, I told him it had been butternut squash he just enjoyed. “Well, I like butternut squash, don’t I?” Now you do, baby. Now you do. Recipe found at My Husband Hates Veggies.

5. Creamy Sausage Pasta [5]: This easy pasta dish is one of my go to week night dinners that has evolved over time. It is always a hit with the husband and the kids. Cream sauce and sausage may not be so healthy, but I think the addition of the spinach totally makes up for it. That is my story and I am sticking to it. Recipe found at From Mommy’s Kitchen.

6. Garlic Noodles [6]: I can’t wait to make these again. I threw the whole thing together in about 10 minutes, which is perfect for an after school or work meal. These noodles really taste like something you’d get in a good Chinese restaurant. Recipe found at The Crepes of Wrath.

7. Super Quick Tomato Basil Cream Pasta [7]: When it’s summer, I can’t get enough of recipes that use up fresh tomatoes and basil. But no matter what time of year, I’m always down with quick recipes. You can make this sauce in the time it takes to boil the pasta. My whole wheat pasta cooks in 9 minutes, so this simple sauce makes a 9 minute summer meal that’s hard to beat. Recipe found at VeganYumYum.

8. Grown Up Mac and Cheese [8]: And what are the odds that Ina Garten would create a mac n’ cheese that wasn’t freaking fantabulous? I have been making the same baked macaroni and cheese recipe for the past year or so, and this version wasn’t too terribly different, but it introduced some “grown up” flavor in terms of the types of cheeses used and the addition of bacon. This really was a fabulous recipe, it certainly lived up to the hype! Recipe found at Brown Eyed Baker.

9. Garlic-Zucchini Pasta [9]: Ingredients include zucchini, garlic, angel hair pasta & parmesan cheese. Recipe found at My Wooden Spoon.

10. Spinach Fettuccine With Sundried Tomatoes [10]: Ingredients include spinach and chive fettuccine, sundried tomatoes, baby spinach, ricotta cheese. Recipe found at I Found Happy.

11. Lemon-Herb Zucchini Fettuccine [11]: Get this: Garlic-infused olive oil coats warm pasta with flecks of lemon zest and fresh herbs. Grilled Zucchini and lemon-chicken top it off with savory Parmesan cheese running throughout. I’m trying to sound fancy like a menu. Is it working? Recipe found at Our Best Bites.

12. Chunky Pasta Sauce Recipe with Sausage, Roasted Tomatoes, Garlic, and Basil [12]: This wonderful recipe for chunky pasta sauce is not one of those planned-in-advance recipes. This is something I came up with on Sunday afternoon when I realized gardening season was almost here and I still had quite a few slow roasted tomatoes and some frozen basil in the freezer, and gee I really should be making something with those tomatoes and basil before it was harvest time again. Recipe found at Kalyn’s Kitchen.

Bonus Recipe: 15-Minute Tomato Sauce. Really. [13]

Also make sure to check out today’s earlier tip: 5 Simple Tips For Cooking Perfect Pasta [14].

Don’t Miss These Tips:

* Recipe Hit List: 27 Pasta Salad Recipes [15]
* 5 Simple Tips For Cooking Perfect Pasta [14]
* 50 Appetizer Recipes & Party Pleasers [16]

Article printed from TipNut.com: http://tipnut.com

URL to article: http://tipnut.com/pasta-pleasers/

URLs in this post:

[1] Pasta with Sausage, Basil and Mustard: http://thebittenword.typepad.com/thebittenword/2008/10/food-wine-october-2008-—pasta-with-sausage-basil-and-mustardfood-wine-october-2008subscribe-to-food-wine-—active-ti.html

[2] Cheesy Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells: http://culinarycory.com/2008/10/13/cheesy-chicken-and-spinach-stuffed-shells/

[3] Recipe: Velvety Broccoli and Feta Pasta: http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/main-dish/recipe-velvety-broccoli-and-feta-pasta-046428

[4] Butternutty Mac and Cheese: http://myhusbandhatesveggies.wordpress.com/2007/12/11/for-my-nutty-husband-butternutty-mac-and-cheese/

[5] Creamy Sausage Pasta: http://frommommyskitchen.blogspot.com/2008/04/creamy-sausage-pasta.html

[6] Garlic Noodles: http://thecrepesofwrath.wordpress.com/2008/10/03/garlic-noodles/

[7] Super Quick Tomato Basil Cream Pasta: http://veganyumyum.com/2008/08/super-quick-tomato-basil-cream-pasta/

[8] Grown Up Mac and Cheese: http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2008/09/10/grown-up-mac-and-cheese/

[9] Garlic-Zucchini Pasta: http://mywoodenspoon.com/2008/09/08/garlic-zucchini-pasta/

[10] Spinach Fettuccine With Sundried Tomatoes: http://ifoundhappy.blogspot.com/2008/07/spinach-fettucine.html

[11] Lemon-Herb Zucchini Fettuccine: http://www.ourbestbites.com/2008/09/lemon-herb-zucchini-fettuccine.html

[12] Chunky Pasta Sauce Recipe with Sausage, Roasted Tomatoes, Garlic, and Basil: http://kalynskitchen.blogspot.com/2008/04/chunky-pasta-sauce-recipe-with-sausage.html

[13] 15-Minute Tomato Sauce. Really.: http://www.chezpim.com/blogs/2008/09/fifteen-minutes.html

[14] 5 Simple Tips For Cooking Perfect Pasta: http://tipnut.com/cooking-perfect-pasta/

[15] Recipe Hit List: 27 Pasta Salad Recipes: http://tipnut.com/pasta-salad/

[16] 50 Appetizer Recipes & Party Pleasers: http://tipnut.com/appetizer-recipes/

10 Tempting Sweet Treats: Recipes

Posted By TipNut On April 30, 2009 @ 1:03 pm In Recipes | 4 Comments

I know…baking sweets at this time a year? With bikini season just around the corner? Well, I think bikinis are overrated, so I’m diggin in! These are the recipes I’ve collected from the ‘net this week and WOW, me.having.some. The squares & slices (and a cookie pie too) are all so tempting and look delicious–something here for everyone.

Brownie Cream Cheese Bites Recipe By fooddiary.blogsome.com
10 Sweet Treats Recipes
*Note: Descriptions below are quotes from the recipe sites

1. Brownie Cream Cheese Bites [1]: (As seen in picture) These mini brownies are an addiction. They are a bit cakey not too fudgy but they pack quite a bit of chocolate flavor in their little packages. Because of their sizes, you could simply peel the paper liners and pop them in your mouth. Just like that. Not too messy and very portable. Let’s not forget the cream cheese and chocolate chips in the middle of the brownies, I bet you couldn’t eat just one. For a grown-up version, substitute the chocolate chips with chocolate covered coffee beans. You’ll get the crunch in a munch. Recipe found at Notes From My Food Diary.

2. Lime Bars [2]: My husband loves key lime pie, but the filling is rich with all those egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk and he is not really into rich foods. One Saturday I was watching an episode of Everyday Baking on PBS which featured a recipe for Lime Squares with Pistachio-Graham Crust. They looked good, and with less of the lime filling I thought they would be perfect for my husband. I am not a fan of the pistachio, so I decided to play around with the recipe to suit my taste. Recipe found at Evil Shenanigans.

3. Amazing Pecan Bars [3]: I received some pecans that were amazing, so I wanted to bake something that truly highlighted their flavor and texture. I have never made pecan pie, so that was my first thought, but I ended up choosing a recipe for pecan bars. I came across this recipe on a foodie message board. The gal who posted the recipe said these bars were “much requested” and that “people die over them,” so I had to give ‘em a whirl. Recipe found at Just Baking.

4. Oreo Pie [4]: Honestly this is super easy. Just a mere 5 ingredients…Oreo pie crust, Oreo cookies, cream cheese, whipped cream and sugar. I think it took me about 20 minutes…including clean up! And when it was served…well…it made me look like a supastah! Recipe found at The Repressed Pastry Chef.

5. Sugared Puffs [5]: Be prepared to run to the kitchen and make this. And when you make it, prepare to take a very, very long walk because you won’t be able to just eat one and therefore you’ll need to a little extra excerise. I flipped to the back of T Magazine looking for the weekly food column like I always do and was so excited to see that it was something sweet and even better the recipe was written by David Lebovitz, master of delicious things. Recipe found at Eat Make Read.

6. Sticky Toffee Pudding [6]I don’t typically dig on dessert despite making dessert (what seems like) all of the time, but I am always curious to see how restaurants make and plate their desserts, so I am usually willing to split an order with my companions. We agreed on the sticky toffee pudding, something I had heard raves about from others who have dined at The Kitchen. Rich. Delicious. I’m not a big chocolate fan, but I will shove little old ladies out of the way for toffee (not really, but you get my point). Recipe found at Use Real Butter.

7. Giovanna’s Maple Creams [7]: Giovanna sometimes dips them in bittersweet chocolate, as shown in one of the photos. Simply melt chopped chocolate in a clean, dry bowl, until smooth, then dip each piece in the melted chocolate. If you want to temper the chocolate, see my instructions on How to temper chocolate. These are great on their own, or as part of a candy assortment for any holiday celebration. Recipe found at David Lebovitz.

8. Chocolate Marquise [8]: For the decadent dinner party – this rich chocolate dessert is for serious chocoholics only. Recipe by Gordon Ramsay at BBC Good Food.

9. Lemon Crumb Bars [9]: Recipe found at Taste Of Home.

10. Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Banana Bites [10]: Simple, delicious and impressive for grownups , and a fun treat for the kiddies! Recipe found at Everything In Moderation.

Don’t Miss These Tips:

* Recipe Hit List: 14 Valentine’s Day Sweet Treats [11]
* 12 Easter Sweet Treats: {Recipes} [12]
* 12 Family Favorite Pie Recipes [13]

Article printed from TipNut.com: http://tipnut.com

URL to article: http://tipnut.com/sweet-treats/

URLs in this post:

[1] Brownie Cream Cheese Bites: http://fooddiary.blogsome.com/2008/06/29/brownie-cream-cheese-bites/

[2] Lime Bars: http://www.evilshenanigans.com/2009/03/lime-bars/

[3] Amazing Pecan Bars: http://justbaking.net/2008/12/02/amazing-pecan-bars/

[4] Oreo Pie: http://therepressedpastrychef.com/2009/03/15/oreo-pie/

[5] Sugared Puffs: http://eatmakeread.com/2009/03/16/sugared-puffs/

[6] Sticky Toffee Pudding: http://userealbutter.com/2009/03/24/sticky-toffee-pudding-recipe/

[7] Giovanna’s Maple Creams: http://www.davidlebovitz.com/archives/2009/03/giovannas_maple_creams.html

[8] Chocolate Marquise: http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/4806/chocolate-marquise

[9] Lemon Crumb Bars: http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Lemon-Crumb-Bars

[10] Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Banana Bites: http://moderationrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/03/chocolate-dipped-frozen-banana-bites.html

[11] Recipe Hit List: 14 Valentine’s Day Sweet Treats: http://tipnut.com/valentines-day-treats/

[12] 12 Easter Sweet Treats: {Recipes}: http://tipnut.com/easter-sweet-treats/

[13] 12 Family Favorite Pie Recipes: http://tipnut.com/favorite-pies/

150+ Superbowl Party Recipes

Posted By TipNut On January 26, 2009 @ 1:01 pm In Recipes | 1 Comment

I usually publish weekly Recipe Hit Lists on Thursdays, but I’ve changed it this week since I know you’ll want time preparing your party menu and picking up food supplies for Sunday’s big game.

If you’re not into Superbowl, these are great party foods for any occasion and I’m sure there’ll be a recipe or two you’ll be bookmarking .

I’ve included a list of 101 simple appetizer recipes from the NY Times and a few other resources that list more than one recipe.

Also make sure to check out Tipnut’s Superbowl Dip Recipes & Snack Ideas [1] that was published for last year’s game day feast.

150+ Superbowl Party Recipes

1. BBQ Chipped Chop Ham Sandwiches – A Pittsburgh Super Bowl Recipe [2]: Since Pittsburgh is in the Super Bowl, I’ve got several recipes lined up that will win people over and provide a Pittsburgh Style celebration. This recipe is unsophisticated, but tried and true. This is the point. I’ve updated it a bit after playing around with the recipe. Recipe found at Accidental Hedonist.

2. Super Bowl Recipe: Hot Buffalo Wings [3]: Recipe found at Love My Philly.

3. Sweet and Sour Vietnamese Wings [4]: In today’s Cook the Book recipe, sweet and sour Vietnamese wings, chicken wings are marinated in an Asian all-stars concoction of fish sauce, mango nectar, ginger, lime juice, and lemongrass, before being oven-roasted to mahogany stickiness. The recipe makes 24 wings, which will serve 4 as an entrée, or, depending on the size of your game day spread, up to 12 as an appetizer. Recipe found at Serious Eats.

4. Super Bowl Pizza Party [5]: Homemade pizza is easy and fun to serve during a Super Bowl party. Before everyone arrives, mix up a big batch of dough (or better yet buy some from your local bakery or pizzeria), assemble your favorite toppings —various meats, cheeses, vegetables, fresh basil — whatever you like. When it’s time to eat, encourage everyone toss the dough high in the air like the pizza man does at the pizzeria before assembling their custom made pie and popping it in the oven. The easy part is your guests do the cooking. Recipe found at My Carolina Kitchen.

5. Fully Loaded Nachos & 17 other Super Bowl Recipes [6]: If taco bells nachos are dogfood than mine are 5 star Michelin rated…and they should be. I always like doing the usual wings and chili as well as Mexican eats when I’m having super bowl parties. It tastes good, everyone tends to like it unless your from Idaho and like Taco Bell and it cooks easy for large amounts of people. Many of the dishes work for buffet style foods and any parties of celebration. Recipe found at Smokin’ Chokin’ and Chowing With The King.

6. More Fun Superbowl Recipes [7]: Hot Pizza Dip, Stuffed Mushrooms. Recipes found at Living Life in the MUD.

7. Cajun Wings [8]: These Cajun flavored wings were easy to prepare, just marinade and bake in the oven. With 6 full ounces of hot sauce, the marinade sounds really spicy, but the wings had a nice kick that thankfully didn’t set my mouth on fire. We enjoyed them a lot and will make them again. Recipe found at Andrea’s Recipes.

8. 8 Easy Crock-Pot Recipes for Your Super Bowl Bash [9]: Don’t miss any of the action on game day. With these super-tasty recipes, you can toss the ingredients into one pot ahead of time, and you’ll be all set when your guests arrive. Recipes found at Delish.

9. Light and Scrumptious Spinach Artichoke Dip [10]: This is a lightened version that works great with light cheese, low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat mayonnaise. Processing it in the food processor contributes to its awesome texture. So, if you’re watching your weight right now and trying to keep your New Year’s resolutions, you can still enjoy this hot dip. Recipe found at Ingredients, Inc.

10. Tortilla Roll-ups [11]: The first thing to be devoured at our family-style New Year’s Eve party were these tasty tortilla roll-ups. Awesome as an appetizer, it is easy to tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences, use what you have on hand, or to make them more filling for a meal. One of my favorite things about tortilla roll-ups is that they are best made ahead of time, decreasing last-minute party preparations. Recipe found at The Finer Things In Life.

11. Fiesta Cream Cheese Spread Recipe [12]: Salsa and apricot preserves come together as a strange combination, yet create a very tasty appetizer! Give this one a try at your Super Bowl party this year! Recipe found at Taste of Home.

12. 101 Simple Appetizers in 20 Minutes or Less [13]: Recipes found at The New York Times.

13. Wings, 3 Ways, and Blue Cheese Dressing [14]: We all like a different sort of sauce so I decided to go ahead and make three different types since the prep is essentially the same. For the sticky wings I sauced them with my standard Asian sauce and then baked them. For the hot wings and the garlic-Parmesan wings I cooked them first and then tossed in the topping before serving. You could bake or fry these, I just had everything baking at the same time. When the sticky wings were done, I turned the broiler on the plain wings to crisp the skin up a little. Then tossed with the sauces I had prepped and served. Recipes found at Chaos In The Kitchen.

14. Baked Artichoke Dip Recipe [15]: A great do-ahead recipe – and you can bake it off in any sized dish you like. I should also note, the smell of the baking artichokes and toasting Parmesan provides a deliciously fragrant backdrop to any get together. I pop the artichoke dip into the oven roughly half an hour before we have friends over, just in time for its olfactory crescendo. Recipe found at 101 Cookbooks.

15. Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Dip [16]: Children love this. Teenagers love it even more. Men really love this. Men, screaming at a football game, while drinking beer, especially love this. I love this. So I guess women love it too. Let’s face it, Superbowl Sunday is approaching with record speed. You know, the Superbowl, the day all your New Year’s diet resolutions are left in the dust. You need to set this Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Dip right next to the buffalo wings and watch it disappear. I’m warning you, it’s addicting. The best part, it’s ready in minutes. No rocket science here, just a fun and yummy dip that will make your Superbowl Party the hottest ticket in town. It will. Really, it will. Recipe found at Noble Pig.

16. Buffalo Chicken Dip [17]: All the ingredients are cooked and just need to be warmed. It features both ranch AND blue cheese salad dressing. The recipe on which it is based calls for using canned chicken (no thank you, sir). And anything that includes a block of cream cheese puts us off a bit. So we’re the first to admit that this dish is a little trashy, but when we served it at party we were hosting last weekend, our guests went absolutely crazy for it. In fact, we made a huge dish of it, doubling the recipe below, and it was all promptly eaten, the dish nearly licked clean. Give it a try at your next soiree — you won’t be sorry. Recipe found at The Bitten Word.

17. Favorite Chili [18]: Last week I promised I would share my favorite chili recipe. Several years ago, I found this book: International Chili Society Official Chili Cookbook. I tried several recipes and liked Joe Burgoz’s Colorado Championship Chili the best, but I’ve made my own tweaks over the years (including the addition of chili powder!). Recipe found at Whisk.

18. Groovy Meatballs [19]: While I won’t be borrowing mom’s white patent leather belt, I have permanently adopted her Groovy Meatballs recipe. I often bring them along to potluck parties. Just keep an eye on these balls… they have a tendency to disappear quickly. Oh, and men especially love this dish — it’s perfect for Super Bowl parties or tailgate parties. Yeah baby! Recipe found at Lulu and Stuff.

19. Mexican Cheesecake [20]: Restaurant Quality- would make it again. “WOW! We had this at a football playoff party and it was super addicting. Everyone liked this appetizer the best. Completely delicious! Recipe found at Recipe Girl.

20. 30 Super Bowl Snacks [21]: When it’s time for the big game, don’t fumble! Step up your game and satisfy the hearty appetites of all those football fanatics gathered around the tube. We’ve made it easy: Choose from a plethora of chicken, chili, potatoes and pasta—all the best bar food. Come game time, we’re sure our picks will leave bellies content and all eyes on the field. Recipes found at Woman’s Day.

Don’t Miss These Tips:

* Superbowl Dip Recipes & Snack Ideas [1]
* Easy Honey Garlic Wings [22]
* 50 Appetizer Recipes & Party Pleasers [23]

Article printed from TipNut.com: http://tipnut.com

URL to article: http://tipnut.com/superbowl-recipes/

URLs in this post:

[1] Tipnut’s Superbowl Dip Recipes & Snack Ideas: http://tipnut.com/superbowl-dip-recipes-snack-ideas/

[2] BBQ Chipped Chop Ham Sandwiches – A Pittsburgh Super Bowl Recipe: http://www.accidentalhedonist.com/index.php?title=bbq_chipped_chop_ham_sandwiches_a_pittsb&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1

[3] Super Bowl Recipe: Hot Buffalo Wings: http://lovemyphilly.com/super-bowl-recipe-hot-buffalo-wings/

[4] Sweet and Sour Vietnamese Wings: http://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2009/01/sweet-and-sour-vietnamese-chicken-wings-recipe.html

[5] Super Bowl Pizza Party: http://mycarolinakitchen.blogspot.com/2009/01/super-bowl-pizza-party.html

[6] Fully Loaded Nachos & 17 other Super Bowl Recipes: http://chibbqking.blogspot.com/2009/01/fully-loaded-nachos-17-other-super-bowl.html

[7] More Fun Superbowl Recipes: http://livinglifeinthemud.blogspot.com/2009/01/more-fun-superbowl-recipes.html

[8] Cajun Wings: http://www.andreasrecipes.com/2009/01/12/cajun-wings-and-a-giveaway/

[9] 8 Easy Crock-Pot Recipes for Your Super Bowl Bash: http://www.delish.com/recipes/cooking-recipes/superbowl-crock-pot-recipes

[10] Light and Scrumptious Spinach Artichoke Dip: http://ingredientsinc.wordpress.com/2009/01/08/light-and-scrumptious-spinach-artichoke-dip/

[11] Tortilla Roll-ups: http://amysfinerthings.com/tortilla-roll-ups

[12] Fiesta Cream Cheese Spread Recipe: http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Fiesta-Cream-Cheese-Spread

[13] 101 Simple Appetizers in 20 Minutes or Less: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/19/dining/19mini.html

[14] Wings, 3 Ways, and Blue Cheese Dressing: http://chaosinthekitchen.com/2009/01/wings-3-ways-and-blue-cheese-dressing/

[15] Baked Artichoke Dip Recipe: http://www.101cookbooks.com/archives/baked-artichoke-dip-recipe.html

[16] Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Dip: http://noblepig.com/2009/01/07/belle-of-the-bowl.aspx

[17] Buffalo Chicken Dip: http://thebittenword.typepad.com/thebittenword/2008/11/buffalo-chicken-dip.html

[18] Favorite Chili: http://www.whiskblog.com/2009/01/my-favorite-chili.html

[19] Groovy Meatballs: http://lulusrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/01/groovy-meatballs.html

[20] Mexican Cheesecake: http://www.recipegirl.com/Appetizers/Appetizer%20Recipes/Mexican%20Cheesecake.htm

[21] 30 Super Bowl Snacks: http://www.womansday.com/Articles/Food/Recipes/30-Super-Bowl-Snacks2

[22] Easy Honey Garlic Wings: http://tipnut.com/easy-honey-garlic-wings/

[23] 50 Appetizer Recipes & Party Pleasers: http://tipnut.com/appetizer-recipes/

- TipNut.com - http://tipnut.com -

50 Appetizer Recipes & Party Pleasers

Posted By TipNut On December 23, 2009 @ 1:02 am In Recipes | No Comments

I’m always on the lookout for new recipes to treat party guests with a tasty appetizer or hors d’oeuvre and this list is going to keep me busy (and guests smiling). This week’s Recipe Hit List is a packed bunch of 50 crowd pleasing appetizers that I’ve handpicked from around the ‘net: some easy (some fussy), some cheesy, some healthy (some not!), some hot (some cold)–I’m confident you’ll find a few new favorites in this collection.

==> Don’t miss the packed list of Bonus items at the bottom of this list, you’ll find a separate list for dips, meatballs, chicken wing recipes, tips for making a cheese board and more–all perfect for entertaining.
Appetizer Recipes

*Note: Descriptions below are quotes from the recipe sites

Chipotle Pork Quichelettes Recipe By lafujimama.com

1. Chipotle Pork Quichelettes [1]: (As seen in picture) The butter really is the star in these quichelettes. It’s important to use a butter that you love the flavor of, because it makes all the difference in the crust. The butter makes the quichelette crust buttery and flaky so that it melts in your mouth. The quiche filling has a wonderful smoky flavor with just a bit of a kick from the ground chipotle chili. These quichelettes are so good that you may just want to skip the meal altogether and fill up on appetizers! Recipe from La Fuji Mama.
2. Recipe: Spinach and Feta Triangles [2]: I read through a handful of recipes, all calling for similar ingredients, but with different spices to liven up the dish. I concocted my own version, and made little appetizer-sized pies. They’re perfect for freezing and reheating a few to supplement a meal, or to serve as appetizers. Recipe from A Bushel Of What?
3. Gougères: A Recipe for French Cheese Puffs [3]: The best thing about this recipe, aside from being easy to make from ingredients one normally has on hand, or that are easily found (except aged, extra-vieille Mimolette, on New Year’s Day, if you live in Paris), is that they can be made earlier in the day, which is a good thing for those of us who like to take a break before our guests arrive, and relax for a moment. Recipe from David Lebovitz.
4. Homemade Baked Egg Rolls [4]: These egg rolls are crazy-easy to make, and definitely a crowd pleaser. I brought them to a recipe swap and when I looked at the table a few minutes after everyone had started eating, they were GONE. Recipe from Joyful Abode.
5. Party Food! Pizza in a Bite [5]: Pizza bites are awesome party food. This recipe makes three trays which means you can pop them in the freezer and always have a quick appetizer on hand. Although, they are usually so popular that you’ll wind up baking all three trays in one night! When you are planning to make these grab a package of three disposable pie tins from the bakery aisle at the store, they are cheap and they will keep you from having to waste all of your good pie plates in the freezer. Recipe from Chaos In The Kitchen.
6. Almond Cheddar Appetizers Recipe [6]: I always try to have a supply of these on hand in the freezer. If guests drop in, I just pull out and reheat some. You can serve them as a snack, for brunch or along with a lighter lunch. Recipe from Taste Of Home.
7. Puff Pastry Meatball Marinara Bites [7]: I came up with this little idea thinking it would be a quick and easy fix for all of those holiday parties we have coming up. Originally, I just made six of them (the beauty of this recipe is that you can just as easily make six as you can sixty) and as I finished up the photographs I found my husband and my son waiting like vultures, drawn by the aroma. That plate emptied out quick as a wink and I was urged to make more, which I did. Those disappeared just as fast. I made more again…those were gone as well. What began as an appetizer idea ended up being supper. Fair warning, that package of mini pastry shells comes with twenty four for a reason. You’ll need that many. Recipe from Southern Plate.
8. Crabmeat-Avocado Quesadillas [8]: This recipe makes individual two-bite hors d’oeuvres, but you can make a full-sized quesadilla and simply cut it into wedges after frying—not as pretty, but quicker. Recipe from Fine Cooking.
9. Brie en Croute [9]: Puff pastry wrapped brie. Recipe by Paula Deen.
10. Chipotle Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp [10]: Serve this appetizer at your next party to get things started with a kick. Recipe from Rachael Ray.
11. Shrimp Rillettes [11]: Rillettes are a rich, pâté-like spread served cold as an appetizer on bread or toast. To do ahead, freeze rillettes in jars or ramekins up to three weeks before giving. Make sure to place jars in freezer-weight plastic storage bags, or wrap ramekins well in foil before freezing. Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Include a French baguette or assorted crackers with the rillettes for serving. Recipe from Delish.
12. Tomato-Pesto Appetizer Tarts [12]: 5-In-1 Cookie and Appetizer Dough is a perfect solution for busy schedules. This one basic dough can be changed to make five different cookie and appetizer recipes. Because the dough can be refrigerated (or frozen), it’s convenient to bake whenever guests drop in unexpectedly. Recipe From Wilton. See Homemade Pesto Recipes & Tips [13] for the pesto filling.
13. Smoked Salmon Spread [14]: Recipe from Ina Garten, Food Network.
14. Deviled Eggs [15]: Recipe and tips from Tipnut.
15. Pimento Cheese [16]: This delicious spread of sharp cheddar cheese and sweet roasted red peppers is all but ignored outside of the South. It is available as a mass-produced food in supermarkets but many southerners have their own recipes for this spread. My favorite version forgoes the traditional jarred pimentos in favor of freshly roasted red peppers. Recipe from Lottie And Doof.
16. Stuffed Mushrooms [17]: The filling is creamy and delicious, and the addition of cayenne pepper gives these a surprising kick at the end of the taste. I also love these because they can be prepped and stuffed in advance, and then baked when needed, which makes them perfect for entertaining! Recipe from Annie’s Eats.
17. Lemon-Parsley Gougeres [18]: Recipe from Martha Stewart.
18. The Perfect Party Snack: Bacon Bites [19]: The original recipe was an older one, and needed a little rearranging and updating, but the concept was brilliant. Spread cream cheese on soft bread, roll it up, wrap it in bacon, and bake. Recipe from King Arthur Flour.
19. Chicken Parm Bites Stuffed with Mozzarella [20]: I decided to use a ground chicken mixture to encase the little mozzarella balls and then coated the balls in panko so they would be crispy on the outside like chicken parm! Then I served them with a marinara dipping sauce. Recipe from Cake, Batter and Bowl.
20. Miniature Napoleons with Eggplant Creme [21]: Fancy appetizer from VeganYumYum.
21. Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts [22]: This recipe is so easy to make, is super affordable, and trust me, it is a real crowd favorite. Recipe from The Comfort Is Always Here.
22. Baked Brie with Rosemary, Almond & Cherries [23]: Recipe from fresh365.
23. Deep-Fried Risotto Balls – Recipe [24]: Although arancini are traditionally street food, you could serve them as a passed appetizer at a party, or a fairly filling first course. And although they are a bit labor intensive, you can prepare everything the day before so all you have to do at showtime is the actual rolling in breadcrumbs and frying. Found at Herbivoracious.
24. Crunchy Zucchini Rounds With Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese [25]: Makes 8 servings (serving size: 3 rounds). Recipe from Health.com
25. Crispy Fried Wontons [26]: So simple and makes a great afternoon or evening snacks. Recipe from Cooking Etcetera
26. Spicy Banana Zucchini Balls [27]: These snack/appetizers are spicy with just the right amount of sweetness from the banana and honey. I would like to try this with a banana curry sauce as a dip. Recipe from Cafe Nilson.
27. Crisp Onion Samosa [28]: I experimented a great deal, making one samosa at a time. After three trials, the stuffing came out perfect. The dough was perfect from the start. Recipe from When Mia Cooks.
28. Mini Brie Bites [29]: I hesitated to post this because it’s soooo simple. So easy it’s almost like cheating. It’s also soooo yummy and perfect for a quick last minute appetizer. And with all the parties and get-togethers coming up during the holidays, anything quick and easy is good by me. Recipe by She Wears Many Hats.
29. Tapenade [30]: Tapenade is seriously savory, salty business. Think of it as a kind of pate made with black olives—with some anchovies, capers, and olive oil thrown in for good measure. Some recipes for this Provencal spread include lemon juice. Some are a extra pungent from the addition of a little tuna and mustard powder. Recipe from The Hungry Mouse.
30. Stuffed Jalapeno Peppers [31]: These peppers are delicious and addicting! If each one of these stuffed peppers was wrapped in bacon then I would have felt guilty about going back for thirds fourths. Instead the one slice divided between the 6 stuffed peppers satisfied my bacon tooth. The filling was creamy and had the right amount of heat. Recipe from Natalie’s Killer Cuisine.
31. Couscous and Chickpea Tartlettes [32]: Recipe found at Palachinka.
32. Crab Rangoon & Peach Sauce [33]: You can make about 50 of these for about $5, which is a lot cheaper and tastier than any restaurant version that I’ve had. The cold and a little tart peach sauce is the perfect compliment. Enjoy! Recipe from Gourmet Mom On The Go.
33. Olive Tomato Squares [34]: Yield: Makes 24 hors d’oeuvres. Recipe from epicurious.
34. Pretzel Bites with Cheddar and Country Ham (aka “American Prosciutto”) [35]: These pretzel bites freeze beautifully, so don’t be afraid to make the full batch and freeze any leftovers for tailgating, snacking while waiting for trick-or-treaters, holiday entertaining, PMS, serving as an alternative to grilled cheese for Soup Night, keeping your hands warm and rewarding pets. Recipe from Ezra Poundcake.
35. Sage And Chicken Liver Pate [36]: This recipe for sage and chicken liver pâté serves approximately 16 as an appetizer. It’s excellent served on sprouted grain or sourdough toast points, with apples and grapes or alongside naturally fermented cornichons. It also makes a good addition to the holiday table. Recipe from The Nourished Kitchen.
36. Pumpkin Butter Crostini with Walnut Goat Cheese [37]: Here is a recipe I put together this weekend for a sweet and savory crostini using homemade pumpkin butter and marinated goat cheese. I was really happy with how it turned out and plan on making it again as an appetizer or a Fall party snack. Recipe from Looks Good To Me.
37. Mushroom Croustades [38]: The “cups” which are often referred to as “croustades” in other recipes and are little bread cases made with round slices of soft white bread that are pressed into tiny muffin tins and slowly roasted so they hold their cup-like shape. Filled with a creamy, herb-flavored mixture based on the classic mushroom “duxelles”, they are an elegant cocktail horse d’oeuvre that requires very little labor. Recipe from Laura’s Best Recipes.
38. Spinach-Cheese Swirls [39]: Recipe from Pepperidge Farm.
39. Crispy Marinated Mozzarella [40]: First, I marinated sliced mozzarella in a mixture of olive oil, dried basil and fresh garlic. Next, I dipped each slice in flour, then egg and finally a panko/dry bread crumb mixture and fried until golden brown. The result was crunchy, melty, garlicky goodness. Recipe from Life’s Ambrosia.
40. Southwestern Eggrolls [41]: They were soooooooooo yummy. Just like any restaurant you would go to. I made two dips to go along with them Spicy Sour cream and creamy avocado. Recipe from The Hungry Housewife.
41. Emergency Appetizer: Goat Cheese Tarts [42]: These tarts use one of my favorite cheater ingredients, phyllo dough shells. Recipe from Figs, Lavender And Cheese.
42. Spicy Rice Balls [43]: They are easy to make, very economical AND they are so delicious. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The lime leaves are really the key for these rice balls. You can roll them up and freeze them until you are ready to fry. I like to use jasmine rice because they are fragrant and a little softer than other rice without being too sticky. Recipe from Jam’s Thai Food And Cooking Blog.
43. Ricotta Spinach Cups – A Gorgeous Little Appetizer [44]: They can also be used as appetizers for any party. Guests will adore these and most of the work can be done ahead. Pre-bake the wrappers and store them in an airtight container once cool. Make the filling and chill in the fridge until ready to serve. These are good hot or room temperature. Recipe from Eating Well Living Thin.
44. Marinated Cheese [45]: This appetizer looks much more labor-intensive than it actually is, making it ideal for dinner parties or the holidays. Of course, you can make as much or as little as you like, so don’t rule it out as an “at home” dish, either. If you celebrate Christmas, you can make this dish especially festive by adding chopped red pimentos to complement the green onions. Recipe from Blue Jean Gourmet.
45. Sherried Mushroom Cups Appetizer [46]: We were recently asked to bring an appetizer to a birthday celebration and brought these savory sherried mushroom bites. They’re delicious and satisfying without being too filling. They’re easy to make and travel well. Recipe from Chez Maggie And Jeff.
46. Prosciutto-Wrapped Greens [47]: This is a great appetizer! So easy and so good, these pretty bundles can be assembled in minutes. Recipe from Tomatoes On The Vine.
47. Hanky Pankies [48]: Hanky Pankies are one of my go-to foods for parties. Why? Because they’re easy and they can be made ahead and kept in the freezer until needed. They’re also one of the first things to disappear from the food table every time I make them. With the holidays approaching, you can be sure that I will have at least two gallon baggies of these in my freezer at all times. Recipe from The Other Side Of Fifty.
48. A Prized Family Appetizer — Cherve’ [49]: Whenever I host a family get-together, it’s one of the first things that my niece and son scans the buffet table for. I have no idea how my mother spelled this cream cheese spread, but she called it “SHARE-VEE”. I don’t even know where Mutti got the recipe, but it’s gold, I tell you. For the sake of a recipe name, I will call it Cherve’. I served this at my Oktoberfest party, and it was a hit…as always. Recipe from A Feast For The Eyes.
49. Chipotle Chicken Cups [50]: It’s been my appetizer “default” for many years, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Truly! I’ve never thrown or been to a party where each of these did not disappear!! So if you’re looking for classy, charming presentation with big flavor and minimal prep — these chipotle chicken cups are for you! Recipe from Gimme Some Oven.
50. Recipe: Kenny Lao’s Rickshaw Dumplings [51]: Kenny, who owns Rickshaw Dumpling Bar in New York, cooks a mean dumpling and I felt like I was in great hands for my tutorial. We worked together to write up a recipe — as Kenny says, dumplings are not an exact science — with the hope that you might give it a whirl. Wouldn’t tonight would be a good night for dumplings? Found at The Kitchn.

Bonus Recipes & Tips

* How To: Creating A Cheese Board [52]
* 101 Simple Appetizers in 20 Minutes or Less [53]
* 24 Delicious Dip Recipes [54]
* 20 Chicken Wing Recipes [55]
* 16 Meatball Recipes [56]
* Edible Dip Container Ideas [57]

Originally Published: November 19, 2009

Don’t Miss These Tips:

* 150+ Superbowl Party Recipes [58]
* 12 Pasta Recipe Pleasers [59]
* 10 Tempting Sweet Treats: Recipes [60]

Article printed from TipNut.com: http://tipnut.com

URL to article: http://tipnut.com/appetizer-recipes/

URLs in this post:

[1] Chipotle Pork Quichelettes: http://www.lafujimama.com/2009/10/chipotle-pork-quichelettes.html

[2] Recipe: Spinach and Feta Triangles: http://www.abushelofwhat.com/2009/11/recipe-spinach-and-feta-triangles.html

[3] Gougères: A Recipe for French Cheese Puffs: http://www.davidlebovitz.com/archives/2009/01/gougeres_french_cheese_puffs.html

[4] Homemade Baked Egg Rolls: http://www.joyfulabode.com/2009/07/05/homemade-baked-egg-rolls/

[5] Party Food! Pizza in a Bite: http://chaosinthekitchen.com/2008/10/party-food-pizza-in-a-bite/

[6] Almond Cheddar Appetizers Recipe: http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Almond-Cheddar-Appetizers

[7] Puff Pastry Meatball Marinara Bites: http://www.southernplate.com/2009/10/puff-pastry-meatball-marinara-bites.html

[8] Crabmeat-Avocado Quesadillas: http://www.finecooking.com/recipes/crabmeat-avocado-quesadillas.aspx

[9] Brie en Croute: http://www.pauladeen.com/index.php/recipes/view2/brie_en_croute/

[10] Chipotle Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp: http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/food/recipes/chipotle-bacon-wrapped-shrimp/

[11] Shrimp Rillettes: http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/shrimp-rillette-spread-appetizer-recipes

[12] Tomato-Pesto Appetizer Tarts: http://www.wilton.com/idea/Tomato-Pesto-Appetizer-Tarts

[13] Homemade Pesto Recipes & Tips: http://tipnut.com/pesto-recipes/

[14] Smoked Salmon Spread: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/smoked-salmon-spread-recipe2/index.html

[15] Deviled Eggs: http://tipnut.com/making-deviled-eggs/

[16] Pimento Cheese: http://www.lottieanddoof.com/2009/05/pimento-cheese/

[17] Stuffed Mushrooms: http://annies-eats.com/2009/08/27/stuffed-mushrooms/

[18] Lemon-Parsley Gougeres: http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/lemon-parsley-gougeres

[19] The Perfect Party Snack: Bacon Bites: http://blog.kingarthurflour.com/2008/12/30/the-perfect-party-snack-bacon-bites/

[20] Chicken Parm Bites Stuffed with Mozzarella: http://cakebatterandbowl.com/chicken-parm-bites-stuffed-with-mozzarella.html

[21] Miniature Napoleons with Eggplant Creme: http://veganyumyum.com/2008/07/miniature-napoleons-with-eggplant-creme/

[22] Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts: http://www.simplecomfortfood.com/2009/09/10/bacon-wrapped-water-chestnuts/

[23] Baked Brie with Rosemary, Almond & Cherries: http://fresh365.blogspot.com/2009/06/baked-brie-with-rosemary-almond.html

[24] Deep-Fried Risotto Balls – Recipe: http://www.herbivoracious.com/2009/08/arancini-di-riso-fried-risotto-balls-recipe.html

[25] Crunchy Zucchini Rounds With Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese: http://recipes.health.com/recipes/1886443-crunchy-zucchini-rounds-with-sun-dried-tomatoes-and-goat-cheese

[26] Crispy Fried Wontons: http://cookingetcetera.wordpress.com/2008/12/10/crispy-fried-wonton/

[27] Spicy Banana Zucchini Balls: http://www.cafenilson.com/2009/07/royal-foodie-joust-spicy-banana-zucchini-balls/

[28] Crisp Onion Samosa: http://when-mia-cooks.blogspot.com/2009/09/crisp-onion-samosas.html

[29] Mini Brie Bites: http://www.shewearsmanyhats.com/2009/10/mini-brie-bites/

[30] Tapenade: http://www.thehungrymouse.com/home/2009/10/08/tapenade/

[31] Stuffed Jalapeno Peppers: http://www.natalieskillercuisine.com/2009/09/stuffed-jalapeno-peppers.html

[32] Couscous and Chickpea Tartlettes: http://palachinka.blogspot.com/2009/10/couscous-and-chickpea-tartlettes.html

[33] Crab Rangoon & Peach Sauce: http://www.gourmetmomonthego.com/2009/10/crab-rangoon-peach-sauce.html

[34] Olive Tomato Squares: http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Olive-Tomato-Squares-231164

[35] Pretzel Bites with Cheddar and Country Ham (aka “American Prosciutto”): http://www.ezrapoundcake.com/archives/4432

[36] Sage And Chicken Liver Pate: http://nourishedkitchen.com/chicken-liver-pate/

[37] Pumpkin Butter Crostini with Walnut Goat Cheese: http://www.itlooksgoodtome.com/?p=1547

[38] Mushroom Croustades: http://laurasbestrecipes.com/2009/02/mushroom-croustades.html

[39] Spinach-Cheese Swirls: http://puffpastry.com/recipedetail.aspx?recipeID=24044

[40] Crispy Marinated Mozzarella: http://www.lifesambrosia.com/2009/06/crispy-marinated-mozzarella-recipe.html

[41] Southwestern Eggrolls: http://thehungryhousewife.blogspot.com/2009/08/southwestern-egg-rolls.html

[42] Emergency Appetizer: Goat Cheese Tarts: http://figslavendercheese.blogspot.com/2009/10/emergency-appetizer-goat-cheese-tarts.html

[43] Spicy Rice Balls: http://thaicookingwithjam.blogspot.com/2009/11/spicy-rice-balls.html

[44] Ricotta Spinach Cups – A Gorgeous Little Appetizer: http://eatingwelllivingthin.wordpress.com/2009/11/10/ricotta-spinach-cups-a-gorgeous-little-appetizer/

[45] Marinated Cheese: http://bluejeangourmet.wordpress.com/2009/11/14/feelin-kinda-sunday-marinated-cheese/

[46] Sherried Mushroom Cups Appetizer: http://www.chezmaggieandjeff.com/2009/10/sherried-mushroom-cups-appetizer.html

[47] Prosciutto-Wrapped Greens: http://tomatoesonthevine-velva.blogspot.com/2009/10/prosciutto-wrapped-greens.html

[48] Hanky Pankies: http://othersideof50.blogspot.com/2009/10/hanky-pankies.html

[49] A Prized Family Appetizer — Cherve’: http://foodiewife-kitchen.blogspot.com/2009/11/prized-family-appetizer-cherve-not-be.html

[50] Chipotle Chicken Cups: http://www.gimmesomeoven.com/chipotle-chicken-cups/

[51] Recipe: Kenny Lao’s Rickshaw Dumplings: http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/asian/recipe-kenny-laos-rickshaw-dumplings-074872

[52] How To: Creating A Cheese Board: http://www.consciousfeast.com/2009/10/cheese-board-recipe-table-talk-radio/

[53] 101 Simple Appetizers in 20 Minutes or Less: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/19/dining/19mini.html

[54] 24 Delicious Dip Recipes: http://tipnut.com/dip-recipes/

[55] 20 Chicken Wing Recipes: http://tipnut.com/chicken-wing-recipes/

[56] 16 Meatball Recipes: http://tipnut.com/meatball-recipes/

[57] Edible Dip Container Ideas: http://tipnut.com/edible-dip-container-ideas-spinach-dip-recipe/

[58] 150+ Superbowl Party Recipes: http://tipnut.com/superbowl-recipes/

[59] 12 Pasta Recipe Pleasers: http://tipnut.com/pasta-pleasers/

[60] 10 Tempting Sweet Treats: Recipes: http://tipnut.com/sweet-treats/

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Today’s Cool Site...

Following Santa

Your children have been anxiously awaiting Christmas for weeks. And now, the big day is less than 24 hours away!

Of course, the last few hours are the longest of the year. Your children are surely as impatient as my son Ian!

Today’s Cool Site will help your kids pass the time. Starting today, NORAD is tracking Santa’s journey from the North Pole.

There are also plenty of puzzles for your kids to solve. And they can hear music and play games. It’s a great way to keep them occupied.

Just be sure to keep track of Santa via the Santa tracker. Your kids will love the videos, satellite images and audio reports!

http://www.noradsanta.org

From the Kim Komando newsletter for komando.com

Merry Christmas!!!

I am sure it is Christmas, for I heard it a few minutes ago on the Las Vegas Police Scanner.

The Dispatcher sent first aid and officers to a home, said:

“The Lady hit her husband in the head with a frozen turkey”.

http://www.radioreference.com/apps/audio/?ctid=1745

Bet she never has to cook a turkey again......

Does anyone recall the old playhouse on tv, 50-60 years ago.

Pat O’Brien played the cop and Barbara bel Geddes the lady in the show, she got tired of her abusive husband and hit him in the head with a frozen leg of lamb, then cooked it and fed it to the cops investigating the crime.

Hey, in those days both tv and home freezers were new items in our homes.

granny

Merry Christmas to you and your families.

Thanks Marm!

Merry Christmas to you and everyone!!

- TipNut.com - http://tipnut.com -

Uses for Citrus Peels Plus Candied Lemon Peel Recipe

Posted By TipNut On May 2, 2007 @ 6:25 am In Food, Food Tips, Recipes | No Comments

Instead of tossing out the peels from citrus fruits:

* Wash them, dry off the water and then store in their own freezer bags (ie. baggy for orange peels, another for lemon peels, etc.) and freeze. When you have a recipe that calls for lemon zest, just take a peel out of the freezer, let it thaw and then use in the recipe.
* Let the peels dry out and use them in simmering pot recipes [1].
* Use the peels for flavored sugars [2]. Great for baking toppings and flavoring teas!
* Save them to toss in the fireplace [3] for a fragrant smell.

Another use for citrus peels is to candy them and use them in baking (things like fruitcakes, muffins and fancy breads) or cover them in chocolate and see what happens .
Candied Lemon Peel Recipe

*First make sure to remove as much of the pith of the peel as possible (the white part)

Ingredients

Peels from 6 lemons
1 1/2 cups water
1 1/4 cups white sugar
3 TBS corn syrup (light)
Sugar for coating (optional)

Directions

* Drop the peels in a boiling pot of water, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain all the water and repeat process with fresh water. Drain the water again and repeat, but this time let the peels simmer for about 20 – 25 minutes (peels should be tender). Remove from heat and drain the water.
* Once the peels are cool enough to handle, slice into small strips (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide).
* Bring to a boil the water, sugar and corn syrup. Let it boil for 3 minutes, then add the peel strips. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until the lemon peel starts becoming translucent. Remove the lid and cook the syrup down until there is only a couple spoonfuls of syrup left. Watch carefully at this point so nothing gets burned.
* Remove the peels carefully and lay singly on a wire rack to cool. Dry overnight.

Optional:

* While still warm, you can sugar coat the peels in a bowl of granular sugar (or coat by shaking in a plastic bag with sugar) and then allow to dry singly on a wire rack.

Secret for Success:

Remove as much of the white pith as possible before boiling the peels, it can add a bitterness if left on. Also make sure to cook the peels long enough–you want them to be very tender (use a sharp knife to determine tenderness).

Don’t Miss These Tips:

* Easy Candied Ginger Recipe + Storage Tips [4]
* Homemade Lemon Sugar Recipes [2]
* Homemade Lemon Syrup Recipe [5]

Article printed from TipNut.com: http://tipnut.com

URL to article: http://tipnut.com/uses-for-citrus-peels-plus-candied-lemon-peel-recipe/

URLs in this post:

[1] simmering pot recipes: http://tipnut.com/fragrant-home-13-simmering-pot-recipes/

[2] flavored sugars: http://tipnut.com/homemade-lemon-sugar-recipes/

[3] Save them to toss in the fireplace: http://tipnut.com/how-to-make-waterproof-matches-firestarters/

[4] Easy Candied Ginger Recipe + Storage Tips: http://tipnut.com/easy-candied-ginger-root-recipe-storage-tips/

[5] Homemade Lemon Syrup Recipe: http://tipnut.com/homemade-lemon-syrup-recipe/

Vanilla & Cloves Air Freshener Spray – Recipe

Posted By TipNut On September 19, 2008 @ 8:07 am In Homemade Cleaners | 3 Comments

Ingredients

1 cup water
1 cup household vinegar
1 TBS vanilla extract
1 tsp cloves

Directions

* Bring all ingredients to a boil then simmer over medium heat for two minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
* Strain cloves then pour liquid into spray bottle, shake and use as needed.

Note: You can increase/decrease the vanilla & cloves amounts to your preference.

More Homemade Freshener Goodies:

* Homemade Air Freshener Sprays [1]
* Fragrant Home: 13 Simmering Pot Recipes [2]
* 4 Homemade Febreeze Recipes [3]

Don’t Miss These Tips:

* Homemade Air Freshener Sprays [1]
* Salt Packed Citrus Shells: DIY Air Freshener [4]
* Homemade Herbal Carpet Freshener Recipe [5]

Article printed from TipNut.com: http://tipnut.com

URL to article: http://tipnut.com/vanilla-air-freshener/

URLs in this post:

[1] Homemade Air Freshener Sprays: http://tipnut.com/homemade-lemon-air-freshener-spray/

[2] Fragrant Home: 13 Simmering Pot Recipes: http://tipnut.com/fragrant-home-13-simmering-pot-recipes/

[3] 4 Homemade Febreeze Recipes: http://tipnut.com/4-homemade-febreeze-recipes/

[4] Salt Packed Citrus Shells: DIY Air Freshener: http://tipnut.com/citrus-shells/

[5] Homemade Herbal Carpet Freshener Recipe: http://tipnut.com/homemade-herbal-carpet-freshener-recipe/

- TipNut.com - http://tipnut.com -

Creative Container Gardening: Tips & Ideas

Posted By TipNut On May 2, 2008 @ 6:37 am In Garden & Plants, Popular Tips | 6 Comments

Lots of goodies today! If you’d like to get creative with your yard display this year, I’ve put together a list to help tweak some creative container ideas for you (this is also a great way to repurpose household items [1] that would otherwise be junked).

Next you’ll find four videos: two provide tips for container gardening that will help your potted plants do their best, and two videos show how to make your own garden containers using hypertufa (I love that stuff!).

Then you’ll find a few more ideas for creative gardening listed here on Tipnut as well as other places I’ve found on the net.
Creative Garden Pot Containers (Ideas)

Here is a list of different items you can use to make some very creative plant and flower displays, I’ve either seen these implemented or come across mention of them.

Make sure to add your favorite ideas too!

1. Work Boots (leave the toe intact or cut out for flowers to bloom out both ends)
2. Metal Buckets & Pails (these can be painted in either a solid color or with a decorative design–but plain metal works too)
3. Wicker Baskets (these can be painted)
4. Wooden Kegs/Whisky Barrels/Rain Barrels
5. Wheelbarrow
6. Old Toybox & Wooden Crates
7. Deep Roasting Pans, Stock Pots
8. Old Bicycle (I saw a yard display once that had a bicycle basket attached to the front handlebars with flowers planted inside, as well as hanging flower bags fixed across the seat)
9. Old Fashioned Baby Carriage
10. Mailbox
11. Old Chair (cut out the seat and attach a fitted container inside)
12. Dresser Drawer
13. Deep Enamelware Pots
14. Child’s Wagon (choose one that’s deep so there’s lots of soil for the plants to grow)
15. End Table (turned on its side)
16. Watering Cans
17. Hypertufa Containers (see more info below)
18. Bird Houses (large with the roof removed and a plant inside)
19. Wooden Tool Box
20. Old Fashioned Bird Cage (pot inside)
21. Hollowed Out Stumps & Logs
22. Old Wash Tubs

Container Tips

* The sky’s the limit when choosing containers but use items that have a deep space, enough to hold the necessary amount of potting soil for your plants and flowers to thrive. Once you start getting creative with your containers, you’ll be looking at “junk” in a whole new way .
* Make sure that you either drill or cut drainage holes otherwise the plants won’t do well and the roots will rot.
* For metal containers, you can line them with several thicknesses of newspaper before filling with potting soil. This will give the roots some protection from the heat.
* If you choose items that won’t survive strong winds without toppling over (like a standing bicycle), choose places to display in the yard that will provide some shelter from the wind.
* For large containers, first fill with false bottoms or recycled materials so you can save money on potting soil (also mentioned in one of the videos below).

Tips For Container Gardening

Here are two different videos offering tips for preparing plant pots and containers. I have included summary notes under each video for those who can’t view them.

Notes:

* Make sure the container has a drainage hole so excess water will come out the bottom to prevent root rot.
* Bigger pots are better since they hold the water longer. To save on potting soil as well as not make the pots too heavy, try filling the bottom of the pots with recycled materials like styrofoam peanuts, crushed cans or a false bottom (you can buy these). Top with a square of weed barrier fabric before adding potting mix so the soil stays above the bottom filler materials.
* Pick a good potting soil mix that contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage as well as peatmoss to hold the moisture.
* If the potting soil you use doesn’t contain any fertilizer, add & mix in some slow release fertilizer to the potting mix before you fill the pot with plants.
* Water plants thoroughly and check the plants daily.

Three Things You Need To Know To Grow Great Containers:

Notes:

* Make sure you water enough so that the water comes out the bottom of the container. This ensures that the entire container of soil is wet, not just the top.
* Feed plants at least once a week.
* Liquid Fish Emulsion is the best growth food for most container plants since it contains all the growth fertilizers plants need for superior growth.

Make Your Own Garden Pots With Hypertufa

I’ve written about hypertufa before [2], now here are some videos showing you how easy it is to make:

Notes:

* Find forms using things like dish pans, oil pans, boxes
* Materials: Equal parts Perlite, Peat Moss, Pure Portland Cement
* Water: Slowly add water (usually slightly less than the amount of the container used for the above ingredients). Mix enough water so the mix will hold shape when making a ball.
* Pack the hypertufa into the form (first lined with plastic), about 2 inch thick (smaller containers are fine with 1 to 1 1/2 inch thick).
* Make sure the container will drain well.
* Use potting mix that drains well.
* The hypertufa pots are fine to leave outside over winter since they are porous.

Hypertufa How To & Tips

Notes:

* Make Hypertufa with Peat, Perlite, Portland Cement. Mix all together before adding water. You can add concrete coloring at this point (check at the hardware store).
* Build a well in the middle of the mix then add a small amount of water. Mix, slowly add more water, mix, keep adding water until you have the consistency of cottage cheese and the hypertufa mix will hold together its shape when you form into a ball.
* If you add too much water, it’s easy to fix by adding a little more peat or perlite until you get the consistency you want.
* First line the form with plastic so the pot is easy to pop out when it’s dry. Add bubble wrap if you’d like a bubble design on the outside of the pot. You can also add pieces of moss along the sides.
* Press the hypertufa into the form, start at the bottom then the sides. Pack it in tight.
* Sit for 5 to 7 days to harden, then pop the pot out of the form. Leave for another 7 to 10 days to make sure the hypertufa is dry.
* Rinse the pot with vinegar to make sure all the lime from the cement will be removed.
* Bonsais do well in hypertufa pots.

More Tips & Ideas Found On The Net

* Melanie’s Old Country Garden – Creative Containers [3]
* Taunton: Thrillers, Fillers & Spillers [4] (tips for eye-catching containers)
* Taunton: Staging a Container Plant Display [5]
* DIY Network: The Dirt On Creative Containers [6] *popup warning

More Creative Gardening Ideas Found On Tipnut

* Make a Big Splash with a Tiny Water Garden [7]
* How To Make A Garden Fountain [8]
* How To Grow Roses In Pots [9]
* Gorgeous: How To Make A Succulent Ball [10]
* Cool Backyard Project: Design A Mini-Garden [11]
* Garden Display Project: Tipsy Pots [12]
* How To Grow Roses In Pots [9]
* Bubbling Urn Water Feature: Backyard Project Tutorial [13]

One of the best things to have when container gardening is a potting bench. These make an ideal work space (which your back will surely thank you for!), here are some free plans [14] that will help you make your own.

Don’t Miss These Tips:

* How To Pot A Plant: Gardening Tips [15]
* Baking Gifts: Creative Container & Filler Ideas [16]
* Frugal Recycling Ideas For Gardening [17]

Article printed from TipNut.com: http://tipnut.com

URL to article: http://tipnut.com/creative-container-gardening-tips-ideas/

URLs in this post:

[1] repurpose household items: http://tipnut.com/category/crafts/repurposing/

[2] hypertufa before: http://tipnut.com/make-your-own-garden-pots-with-hypertufa/

[3] Melanie’s Old Country Garden – Creative Containers: http://melaniesoldcountrygarden.blogspot.com/search/label/Containers

[4] Taunton: Thrillers, Fillers & Spillers: http://www.taunton.com/finegardening/design/articles/thrillers-fillers-spillers.aspx

[5] Taunton: Staging a Container Plant Display: http://www.taunton.com/finegardening/design/articles/staging-container-plant-display.aspx

[6] DIY Network: The Dirt On Creative Containers: http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/ic_planters_pots_boxes/article/0,2029,DIY_13967_5515143,00.html

[7] Make a Big Splash with a Tiny Water Garden: http://tipnut.com/make-a-big-splash-with-a-tiny-water-garden/