Tomato Poached Eggs

At my house we've always been fairly healthy when it comes to food, but lately we've also been trying to push more fruits and veggies along with protein.  I know I already posted a recipe from the Drop 10 Diet, but this is pretty great too.  Incredibly filling too.  But it did make me want to take a nap after lunch because I was so incredibly full and warm.  :)

Tomato Poached Eggs
1 cup chopped mushrooms
1 finely chopped garlic clove
2 cups spinach/kale
2 cups low sodium tomato sauce
2 eggs
1 tablespoon shredded Parmesan cheese

Saute mushrooms and garlic in 1 teaspoon olive oil, till juices mostly evaporate.  Stir in spinach/kale; add tomato sauce.  When sauce heats and bubbles slightly, add eggs and cover.  Poach eggs until cooked, about 5 minutes.  (Mine took about 8 minutes)  Top with Parmesan cheese.  Serve with a slice of whole wheat bread.

Tropical Traditions Giveaway Winner!!

We have a winner in the Tropical Traditions Giveaway!!  Susan C.!!  Be on the lookout for an email from rosiedickens@hotmail.com.

Congrats!

Sundays at Tiffany's By James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet

Honestly, the book far outweighs the movie in amounts of happiness distributed.  There is   more of everything including plot, humor, and heart in the book.  A read it till the end and find it's past one in the morning.  It was worth the dark circles.  A delight of a read with a pace that ambles by like an old friend.  

I  admit that I caught the movie version first.  Not typical of me, since the book version is always better.  Movies are great but you don't get the same feeling for the characters and in this case you get a weaker story on screen.  The movie version is certainly a feel good romantic comedy.  Yet, it lacks a few things from the book like the fact that the imaginary friend is an adult from the start.  I suppose someone down the line thought it would be less weird/potentially creepy that way.  

Truly though, it works.  I mean it's not as if we're introduced to perverts here.  Imaginary friends are not creepy no matter their age or gender or species.  They fall under that category of magical helpers who basically can do anything they like and still be certified as normal.  They key is the sincerity.  If they weren't truly out to help their kid(s), then it would be unwanted attention or harassment.

Basically, Jane has an imaginary friend that has to leave her when she turns nine.  It's one of the rules.  Except that Jane is supposed to forget all about Michael so it doesn't hurt.  She remembers him and he ends up seeing her as an adult.  The story winds around why Jane and Michael are meeting for a second time which has never happened to any imaginary friend.

The magic is the best part in my opinion.  Magic is best left alone and it is.  Michael can just snap his fingers and things happen.  He doesn't know why and can't explain it.  Jane asks about it but there are no answers.  The point isn't in the magic because it's all about Michael and Jane.  

So, if you're looking for a love story without exaggerated drama and with a touch of magic, then this might be the perfect book for your next gloomy day.  Not all stories have this much warmth without the cheese.  

Wholesome Wednesday: Nutty Blueberry Smoothies

I'm sure you read about how the amazing cake I'm working on isn't quite right yet.  Tastes great, but looks like a pile of goo.  So needs some changes.  I'm thinking more cake and possibly some whipped cream instead of custard to give it more form.

Since the cake didn't progress the way I thought it would, we still need a recipe for this morning.  I've got Nutty Blueberry Smoothies or strawberry for those people who don't like blueberries.  It's a really simple recipe and I had everything on hand.

Nutty Blueberry Smoothies
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 tablespoon Earth BalanceAlmond Butter
1 tablespoon Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts
6 oz. low fat greek or regular yogurt ( I used vanilla in the blueberry and strawberry in the strawberry)
1/2 c skim milk

Put all in blender and blend till smooth.  See easy peasy.  Just the way I like recipes to go.  If you decide to go the strawberry route, just use a cup of strawberries.

Now you're probably wondering why I've specifically linked those ingredients in the recipe.  Later in the week you're going to see reviews of those products because each company has graciously offered to give some away.  So stay tuned if you've been wanting to try out Hemp Hearts or Earth Balance products.  :)

Tomorrow will be late :(

So tomorrow's Wholesome Wednesday post will be a bit later.  And won't be the awesome dish I promised yet....well because the recipe needs more work.  It tastes great.  Like a strawberry lime margarita, but looks like a pile of goo.  Either that or I didn't chill it enough.  Which is a distinct possibility because I'm incredibly impatient.  :)

A Couple More Mariano's Deals!

I was just at Mariano's in Arlington Heights, and they have organic fuji apples for $.69 lb!!

And Roundy's whole chickens for $.99 lb.

Both really awesome deals.  And they're getting more organicgirl salads tomorrow because I think there were about 8 on the shelf tonight. 

Mariano's Fresh Market Match-ups May 10 - May 23

Here are the best deals May 10 - May 23, 2012

Double Daze

Every Wednesday you can save 100% more on manufacturers’ coupons.  The manufacturer gives you a deal, and we double it.  Redeem up to 5 manufacturers' coupons worth up to $1 each and spend a minimum $25 in a single transaction, and we make those 5 coupons worth $10. That’s 100% more savings.

Mariano's Fresh Market Coupon Policy

Best Deals

Organicgirl Salads 5 oz. $2.99 Print $2 here (exp. 5/21)

            Amazing Price for organic salad $.99

 Vidalia Sweet Onions $.69 lb Print $.50 off 5 lbs here

            Final Price $2.95 for 5 lbs Vidalias

Florida Crystals Sugar 32 oz. $2.79 3/11 RP, Print $.65 here

            Final Price as low as $1.29 during Double Daze

Barilla Pasta 12-16 oz. $.99 4/22 SS

            Final Price as low as $.24 per box during Double Daze

Lee Kum Kee Hoisin Sauce 8.5 oz. $2.29 Print $1 here

            Final Price as low as $.29 during Double Daze

Produce

Del Monte Gold Extra Sweet Pineapple Large 4.5 lb ea $2.49

Strawberries 1 lb $1.78

Organic Strawberries 1 lb $2.99

Red Bell Peppers $1.49 lb

Microwavable Artichokes 2 ct. $3.99

Jumbo Hass Avocados $1.09 ea

Green Asparagus $1.99 lb

On the Vine Cluster Tomatoes $.99 lb

Organicgirl Salads 5 oz. $2.99 Print $2 here (exp. 5/21)

            Amazing Price for organic salad $.99

Roundy’s Baby-Cut Carrots 1 lb $.89

Vidalia Sweet Onions $.69 lb Print $.50 off 5 lbs here

            Final Price $2.95 for 5 lbs Vidalias

Seedless Lemons 1 lb $1.99

Rambutan $7.99 lb

Papaya $2.79 ea

Young Coconuts $1.99 ea

Cherimoya $3.99 ea

Meat

All Natural Fresh Pork Baby Back Ribs $3.99 lb

USDA Choice Strauss Lamb Loin Chops $7.99 lb

Fresh Lake Superior Whitefish Fillets $6.99 lb

Fresh Store Made Beef or Chicken Kabobs $4.99 lb

Perdue All-Natural Whole Bone-In Turkey Breast $2.69 lb

93% Supreme Lean Ground Beef 3 lb pkg. $3.99 lb

USDA Choice Black Angus Beef Boneless Ribeye Steak $8.99 lb

Fresh Marinated Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts $2.99 lb

Old Fashioned Applewood Thick Sliced Bacon $3.99 lb

Fresh Hawaiian Marlin Steak $19.99 lb

Fully Cooked Jumbo Snow Crab Clusters $8.99 lb

Mariano’s Market Fresh Steamed and Flavored Shrimp 26/30 ct. $13.99 lb

Fresh Live Cherrystone Clams 3/$1.98

Jalapeno Crab Salad $4.99 lb

Vita Classic Smoked Salmon 4 oz. $6.99

Deli

Dietz & Watson Black Forest Ham $6.99 lb

Volpi Prosciutto $7.99 lb

Sara Lee Honey Turkey Breast $5.99 lb

Colby or Colby Jack Cheese $4.99 lb

Albacore Tuna Salad $9.99 lb

Broccoli Cheese Salad $5.99 lb

Steakhouse Potato Salad $2.99 lb

Napoletan Style Pizzas $4.99 ea

Grilled Italian Chicken Breast 2/$5

Vero Gelato 6 oz. $1.99 ea

Bakery

Tea Pot Cake $22

Tea Cup Cake $8

Mother’s Day Bonnet Cake $10

Chop Block Bread $3.45 ea

All Butter Gourmet Cookies 6 ct. $3.75

Sweet Onion Rolls 8 ct. $2.75

Cheese

Pinna Imported Pecorino Romano Cheese $4.99 lb

Saint Andre 75% Triple Cream Cheese $14.99 lb

Uplands Pleasant Ridge Reserve Cheese $19.99 lb

Carr Valley Menage $12.99 lb

English Huntsmen Cheese $14.99 lb

Prairie Breeze Cheese $10.99 lb

Roundy’s Select

Coffee 10-12 oz. $5.99

Tea 20 ct. $1.49

Dressing 12 oz. $2.49

Root Beer 4 pk. $2.49

Appetizers Selected 8-10 oz. $2.99

Orange Blossom or Raw Honey Spread 8 oz. $2.79

Salsa 16 oz. $2.49

Natural and Organic

Cascadian Farm Cereal or Bars 9-17 oz. or 5-8 ct. $2.69

Pam Organic Cooking Spray 5 oz. $2.99

Blue Diamond Baked Chips 4.25 oz. $2.49

Pamela’s Whenever Bars or Cookies 7-7.25 oz. $2.99

Florida Crystals Sugar 32 oz. $2.79 3/11 RP, Print $.65 here

            Final Price as low as $1.29 during Double Daze

Roundy’s Vegetarian or Omega 3 Eggs 1 doz. 2/$4

Grocery

Barilla Pasta 12-16 oz. $.99 4/22 SS

            Final Price as low as $.24 per box during Double Daze

Dunkin’ Donuts Bagged Coffee 11-12 oz. $5.99 4/1 RP

            Final Price as low as $3.99 during Double Daze

Brownberry Wide Pan Bread 24 oz. $2.39

Glaceau 20 oz. Vitaminwater or 23.7 oz. Smartwater $.89

Doritos, Lay’s Kettle Cooked Chips or Rold Gold Pretzels 8.5-16 oz. $2.49

Old Orchard Juice 64 oz. $1.99 Print various coupons here

Chicken of the Sea Chunk White Albacore Tuna in Water 5 oz. $.99

Roundy’s Purified Water 35 pk. $3.49

Kashi Cereal 7.5-17.5 oz. $2.99 Print $2/2 here (30 pts)

            Final Price $1.99 wyb 2

Fiji Water 6 pk. .5 ltr. $5.49

A Taste of Thai Quick Meals 4-5.75 oz. $2.99

La Preferida Spanish Rice 5.25 oz. $1.39

Gianotti Pasta Sauce 26 oz. $3.99

Lee Kum Kee Hoisin Sauce 8.5 oz. $2.29 Print $1 here

            Final Price as low as $.29 during Double Daze

Herdez Salsa 16 oz. $1.89

Dairy

Tropicana Trop50 Juice or Tea 59 oz. $2.99

Helluva Good Dips 12 oz. $1.79

Dannon Oikos Greek Yogurt 5.3-6 oz. $.99 Print $.50/2

            Final Price as low as $.49 wyb 2 during Double Daze

Roundy’s Cream Cheese 8 oz. $1.49

Sargento Shredded Cheese 16 oz. $3.99

Roundy’s Cheese Cubes 8 oz. $1.99

Roundy’s Sour Cream or French Onion Dip 16 oz. $.99

Organic Valley Omega-3 Milk 64 oz. $2.99

Imperial Spread 16 oz. $.89

Silk PureAlmond 64 oz. $2.49 Print $.75 here

            Final Price as low as $.99 during Double Daze

Lifeway Low Fat Kefir Cultured Milk 32 oz. $2.99 Print here

Pillsbury Cookies or Pie Crust 2-24 pk. $2.49 4/1 SS

            Final Price varies

Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter 8 oz. $2.69

Lia Marie Garlic Spread 12-14 oz. $2.99 Print $1 here (zip 63115)

            Final Price as low as $.99 during Double Daze

Frozen

Kashi Steam Meals or Entrees 9-10 oz. $2.49 Print $1 here

            Final Price as low as $.49 during Double Daze

Palermo’s Primo Thin Crust or Hand Tossed Pizza 13.46-23.5 oz. $4.69 3/25 SS, Print $1 here

            Final Price as low as $2.69 during Double Daze

Birds Eye Voila! Meals 21-23 oz. $3.99 Print $1 here, Print $1 here

            Final Price as low as $1.99 during Double Daze

Home Run Inn Pizza 16-20.75 oz. $4.49

Eggo Waffles or Pancakes 8-12 ct. $1.69

Gardein Protein Meat Alternatives 9-10.5 oz. $1.99 Print $1 here

            Final Price $.99

Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers w/o Sauce 12 oz. $1.19

T.G.I. Friday’s Single Serve Entrees 12 oz. $1.99

Totino’s Party Pizza 7.5-10.9 oz. $1.09 2/26 SS

            Final Price as low as $.69 wyb 5 during Double Daze

Talenti Gelato 16 oz. $1.99 Print $.55 here

            Final Price as low as $.89 during Double Daze

Boca Meat Alternatives 4 ct or 10-12 oz. $2.49

Clemmy’s Ice Cream or Bars 1 pt. or 4 ct. $2.49 Print $1 here

            Final Price as low as $.49 during Double Daze

Roundy’s Ice Cream 48 oz. $2.48

Skinny Cow Ice Cream Sandwiches, Bars or Cones 15.9-24 oz. $3.99

Misc.

Nature’s Bounty, Disney, Marvel or Ester-C Vitamins or Supplements B1G1

Aquafresh4.6-6.4 oz Toothpaste or 1 ct. Children’s Toothbrush $2 5/6 RP

            Final Price FREE during Double Daze

Sensodyne 4 oz. Toothpaste or 2.2-2.4 oz. or 40 ct. Poligrip Adhesives $4.50 5/6 RP, Print coupons here

            Final Price as low as $2.50 during Double Daze

Ensure Regular 6 ct. $7.99 4/1 SS, Print $1.50 here

            Final Price as low as $6.49 during Double Daze

Slim-Fast Meal Bars or Shakes 4-5 ct. $4.98 Limit 4 Print $1 here, Print $1 here

            Final Price as low as $2.98 during Double Daze

Organix Shampoo, Conditioner or Styling Products 3.3-13 oz. $2.98 Limit 4

Dial 8 pk. Bar Soap $3.98 Limit 4 Print $2/2 here

            Final Price $2.98 wyb 2

Colgate 6.4 oz. Toothpaste or Colgate Plus 1 ct. Toothbrush B1G1 Limit 4 4/29 SS, 5/13 SS

            Final Price varies

Bayer 100 ct. or 120 ct. Genuine Aspirin $3.98 Limit 4 3/18 SS, 4/29 RP, 5/13 SS

            Final Price as low as $1.98 during Double Daze

Huggies Jumbo Diapers, Slip-ons, Pull-ups or GoodNites 12-50 ct. $8.98 Limit 1 4/15 SS

            Final Price $6.98

Enfamil Premium Powdered Baby Formula 22.2-23.4 oz. $22.99

Crest Tartar Protection, Cavity Protection or Whitening Toothpaste 8.2 oz. $1.88 Limit 1 4/29 PG

            Final Price $1.53

Depend or Poise Adult Disposable Undergarments 10-72 ct. $10.98 Limit 1 4/15 SS, Print $2 here

            Final Price $8.98

Organic Favorites

Organic Raspberries or Blueberries 6 oz. $2.99

Fresh 100% USDA Organic Ground Beef 16 oz. $4.99 ea

Applegate Organic Sliced Lunchmeat 4-6 oz. $4.99

Garden of Eatin’ Party Size Tortilla Chips 16 oz. $4.99 Print $1/2 here

            Final Price as low as $3.99 each during Double Daze

Julie’s Organic Frozen Desserts 3-4 ct. $3.49

Roundy’s Organics Milk 64 oz. 2/$5

OMG $2 Q for Organicgirl Salad!

I've been working on the matchups for Mariano's and this morning when checking facebook, I saw that organicgirl posted a coupon for $2 off any product!  And that's amazing because their salads are $2.99 @ Mariano's the next two weeks!!  So make sure to go to their facebook page to print it.  This makes salad for $.99.  :)

Klutch Club

I have something brand new to share with y'all this afternoon.  Now I know most everyone has heard of Birchbox, Cravebox and Julep boxes, but have you ever heard of a Klutch Club?  I certainly hadn't until Klutch Club emailed me and asked if I'd like to try out one of their boxes.  Of course I said yes as I love all things organic and natural.

25 lb cat added to show true size of box :)

It came this week in the mail.  A big grey box shaped like a shoebox.  It was really cute to open and the inside box just slides right out.  I got to sample their April box with a theme of "Spring clean your body".  Inside there was:

Kristin McGee's Power Yoga DVD
Enjoy Life Plentils bag of lentil chips
Enjoy Life Not Nuts! Seed and Fruit mix
HyDrive Energy Berry Blast drink mix
Kind Plus bar Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate
Barlean's Flax Oil
Shea Terra Rose Hips Black Soap (I'm absolutely loving this!!)
Zico Pure Premium Coconut Water
Tea Forte 3 teas Cherry Marzipan, Honey Yuzu, Cucumber Mint (Love to try new tea)
Hyde $25 off a purchase

So all in all its a cute little box with a lot of things in it that I've never tried before.  This is definitely a box you should sign up for if you're interested in trying out new natural/organic things every month.  The boxes run $18.00 for a month by month subscription and go down to $16 a box when you sign up for an entire year's worth of boxes. 

Right now you can sign up and enter the code BrightPink to save 10% on a Klutch Club box.  And that 10% then gets donated to Bright Pink which is the only national non-profit organization focusing on the prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young women while providing support for high-risk individuals.  It's great that the amount you're saving goes to a great charity. 

*Klutch Club provided me with this product for review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own*

Wholesome Wednesday: Microbaked Apple

Today's Wholesome Wednesday doesn't have a picture unfortunately  I made it again and snapped a pic.  Because I've been reworking a recipe that I had hoped would be ready, but isn't.  So I have this to share instead.  It comes from the Drop 10 Diet book.  I just recently checked it out because I'm always looking for more healthy ideas to add to our menu.  Last night I made these Micro baked Apples and they were quite good.  There's no picture because I didn't realize that they'd be as good as they were.  Also they just look like a mess.  Not really any way to pretty them up for a photo.  :)

Micro baked Apple


Microwave a small cored apple (depending on how thick the peel is you might want to peel them too).  Fill the hole with 1 tablespoon of raisins and microwave until tender, 3-5 minutes.  Mine took about 2 1/2 minutes.  So do keep an eye on it.  Top with 1/2 cup low fat vanilla ice cream.  

So the recipe couldn't be simpler.  And it tastes amazing.  Kinda like a hot apple pie without the crust.  I definitely recommend trying it out.  :)

As soon as I finish the recipe I've been playing with I'll post some photos, but you'll have to wait till next Wednesday to get all the details.  

Cookies For Rookies-The Looneyspoons Collection

Since I love cooking and baking I go through a lot of cookbooks.  The most recent one I had was The Looneyspoons Collection by Janet & Greta Podleski.  I'd seen one of their cookbooks before about a decade ago, when I lived in Seattle.  And the cookbooks are really cute.  They're illustrated, with pictures on almost every single page and have a lot of nutritional information in them. 

As you might have noticed, here at Rosie Discovers, we're suckers for anything with peanut butter and chocolate in them.  And I do mean anything.  So it was a no-brainer to try out the Cookies for Rookies recipe.  I quite like this recipe because it makes a more moist cookie than the other oatmeal peanut butter chocolate chip cookie recipe that we love.  It reminds me more of a soft peanut butter cookie.  It even has the cute fork marks on top.  There are only two things I changed in the recipe.  First, I used a peanut butter with honey already in it (which I absolutely love!!).  Second, I made my cookies smaller.  A 1 1/2 inch cookie is a little big for me, so I used a tablespoon cookie scoop to make mine.  If you make a smaller cookie, you should get about 3 1/2 dozen out of the recipe and you'll also have to adjust the cooking time to about 7 minutes.

Cookies For Rookies

1 1/4 cups flour
1 cup oats
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
1/3 cup peanut butter
1 egg
1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Using a mixer, beat together brown sugar, butter, peanut butter and egg on low speed till well blended.  Add dry and chocolate chips and mix well.

Using a cookie scoop, scoop out dough 2 inches apart onto greased or lined cookie sheets.  Flatten with a fork to 1/4 inch thickness.  Bake about 7 minutes.  Watch to make sure cookies don't dry out and over bake.

To me this is the perfect cookie size.  This way you can have more than one, because you'll definitely want too.

alternaVites Kids Review

Recently I got asked to review alternaVites Kids, a quick melting vitamin for kids.  It's a really neat concept.  The vitamins come in these little tubes and are about the consistency of pixie sticks.  One tube contains a full dose of multivitamins and minerals.  The crystals are quick melting too just like a pixie stick.  There are a variety of ways you can take them too.  You can just pour them straight on to your tongue.  Lick it off a spoon.  Mix them into smoothies, yogurts, puddings and shakes.  Sprinkle it on top of fresh fruit.  There are a ton of ways you could take these.  Also since they're so versatile, it should be easy to find a way your kids will love.

AlternaVites Kids also does not contain any sugar, aspartame, HFCS, nothing artificial, no animal products or by products, no egg, no soy, no milk, no peanut, no tree nuts, no wheat, no fish or shellfish and also certified kosher pareve.  I really like that alternaVites don't contain any of these common allergens.  Especially great in a children's vitamin as a lot of kids aren't diagnosed early if they have allergies. 

I got to sample the strawberry bubblegum flavor.  And they amazingly do taste like strawberries and bubble gum.  The alternavites Kids even taste sweet because of the xylitol.  I'm sure your kids and the kid in you will love them.  A package of 30 packets retails for $15.95 and you can receive a 20% discount when you use the code moms20 to place your order.

Make sure to check out alternaVites Kids on facebook and follow them on twitter.

Disclaimer: I was sent this product for review.  All opinions are my own.

Apple Pie with a Coconut Oil Crust + Tropical Traditions Give-Away!!

Recently Tropical Traditions offered to let me try out some of their Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil.  I'd never used it before but had heard that its incredibly good for you.  Dr. Oz says so too.  :)

Here's a video about Tropical Traditions Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil.

I've tried a few things with coconut oil and not all were a baking success.  As you've read, I tried making an entirely coconut oil pie crust and a lemon blueberry bread (both were fails).  I do quite like to use it when making anything with meat and also throwing some in with the rice when I make it in the microwave.  To me it doesn't add a coconut taste to anything I've made.  Which makes it perfect!  How to Use Coconut Oil: There are hundreds of uses!

I did email Tropical Traditions because I was having issues using the Coconut Oil to bake with and they recommended using half coconut oil and half butter.  Upon learning this, I knew exactly what to bake...my favorite apple pie.  So here's the recipe and the pics:

Coconut Oil Double Pie Crust Recipe

2 cups all purpose flour
1/3 cup coconut oil
1/3 cup unsalted butter, cubed and chilled
1/2 teaspoon salt
5-7 tablespoons ice water

You can make the crust in two different ways, you can use the food processor or you can use a pastry cutter.  I prefer using a pastry cutter because I've always used one.  If pressed for time, I'd break down and use the food processor.

(Pastry Cutter) 1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.  Then add coconut oil and butter, work them into the flour using the pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse meal. 
2. Add 5 tablespoons ice water and work into flour mixture.  Continue to add water till dough comes together but don't add enough to become sticky.
3.  Separate dough into 2 even pieces.  Using hands work one piece into a thick round.  Roll out with rolling pin, large enough to fit a 9-inch pie pan.  Do the same with second piece of dough.

(Food Processor) 1. In food processor bowl, combine all ingredients except water.  Pulse several times till mixture resembles coarse meal.  2.  Add 5 tablespoons ice water and pulse till dough comes together.  Adding more water as needed.  3.  Separate dough into 2 even pieces.  Using hands work one piece into a thick round.  Roll out with rolling pin, large enough to fit a 9-inch pie pan.  Do the same with second piece of dough.

Blue Ribbon Apple Pie (adapted from The American's Test Kitchen Family Baking Book)

5 lbs your favorite type of apple (I prefer tart: rome, mcintosh, granny smith, jonathon) peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4" thick
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon grated fresh lemon zest (if I have it I use it, if I don't it still comes out great)
dash of salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (I use bottled if I don't have a lemon)

1. Toss the apples, sugars, zest, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg together in a large bowl.  Transfer to a large Dutch oven or a large cooking pot, cover and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until apples are fork tender but still hold their shape, 10-20 minutes.  Transfer apples and their juice to a rimmed baking sheet and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.

2. Adjust oven rack to lowest position, place foil-lined rimmed baking sheet on the rack, and heat the oven to 425 degrees.  Drain the cooled apples thoroughly through a colander, reserving 1/4 cup of the juice.  Stir the lemon juice into the reserved 1/4 cup of apple juice.

3.  Spread the apples into the dough-lined pie plate, mounding them slightly in the middle, and drizzle with the lemon juice mixture.  Loosely roll the second piece of dough around the rolling pin and gently unroll it over the pie.  Trim, fold, and crimp the edges, and cut 4 vent holes in the top.

4. Place the pie on the heated baking sheet and bake until the crust is golden, about 25 minutes.  Reduce heat to 375 degrees, rotate baking sheet, and continue to bake until the juices are bubbling and the crust is deep golden brown, 25-30 minutes longer.  Let the pie cool on a wire rack until the filling has set, about 2 hours; serve slightly warm or at room temperature.

My recipe differs in that I use apples that I like instead of a mix of tart and sweet.  I've also increased and added spices.  This tastes more like a classic apple pie to me.  And yeah, it is important to cook the apples before hand.  If you don't, they'll shrink and you'll be left with a lot of empty space at the top and your crust will collapse when you cut it.

Tropical Traditions Virgin Coconut Oil

On to the giveaway, Tropical Traditions has graciously offered to send a quart of Coconut Oil to one lucky reader.  You can enter below using the rafflecopter entry form.  Contest will run from May 4th - May 15th.  Open to residents of the US and Canada.  Also you if you're a new customer and place an order with this link you can get a free coconut oil cookbook.  Tropical Traditions Weekly Sales

Yoplait Lactose Free $.30 coupon

MyBlogSpark sent over a coupon for $.30 off a lactose free Yoplait yogurt.  So make sure to print it, as this will make a pretty good deal.  :)

Wholesome Wednesday: Cornbread

I’ve always loved cornbread.  And I love it in any shape or form.  This is an incredibly simple recipe that mixes up in minutes.  It's also surprising that it doesn't have any butter in it.  But the buttermilk and sour cream keep the cornbread from being dry.  It's incredibly moist.  It will also please picky eaters as it doesn’t have added corn kernels or any spicy things.  This cornbread goes great with my almost paleo chocolate chili.

Wholesome Wednesday: Cornbread

2 cups cornmeal

1 cup flour

1 ¼ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

¼ cup sugar

1 egg

½ cup sour cream

2 cups buttermilk

Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl.  In a medium bowl, beat egg then whisk in buttermilk and sour cream.  Whisk well and bake in a greased 9x13 pan at 375 degrees for 20-24 minutes.  

Mariano's Fresh Market Match-ups April 26 - May 9

Here are the best deals April 26 - May 9, 2012

Double Daze

Every Wednesday you can save 100% more on manufacturers’ coupons.  The manufacturer gives you a deal, and we double it.  Redeem up to 5 manufacturers' coupons worth up to $1 each and spend a minimum $25 in a single transaction, and we make those 5 coupons worth $10. That’s 100% more savings.

Mariano's Fresh Market Coupon Policy

Best Deals

Artisan Lettuce 18 oz. 2/$3 *One of my families faves*

Mission Tostadas or Tortillas 14-27.5 oz. $1.89 Be on the lookout for $1 peelies

            Final Price $.89

Kashi Steam Meals or Entrees 9-10 oz. $2.49 Print $2 here

            Final Price $.49

Yoplait Light Yogurt With Granola 12 oz. $2.19 3/25 SS

            Final Price as low as $.69 during Double Daze

Kraft MilkBite Milk and Granola Bars 6.15 oz. $2.49 Print $1 here, Print $.75 here

            Final Price as low as $.49 during Double Daze

Produce

Green or White Asparagus $1.99 lb

Premium Strawberries 1 lb $1.69

Traditional or Champagne Mangoes $.89 lb

Artisan Lettuce 18 oz. 2/$3

Large Navel Oranges 2/$1

Green D’Anjou Pears $.99 lb

Vidalia Sweet Onions $.69 lb Print $.50 here

            Final Price as low as $2.45 for 5 lbs during Double Daze

Red, White or Gold Pearl Onions 6 oz. $1.99

Kumato Tomatoes 16 oz. $1.99

Jumbo Garlic $1.79 lb

Variety Baby Eggplant 4 ct. $4.88

Portabella Mushrooms $1.99 lb

Oyster Mushrooms $3.99 lb

Shiitake Mushrooms $5.99 lb

Crimini Mushrooms $1.99 lb

Organic Produce

Organic Navel Oranges 2/$1.50

Organic Strawberries 1 lb 2/$5

Organic On the Vine Cluster Tomatoes $2.49 lb

Organic Green, Red or Lacinato Kale $1.99 lb

Organic Celery $.98

Infinite Organic Culinary Herbs $1.99

Organicgirl Salads 5 oz. $2.99 Print $1 here, Print $1 here

            Final Price $1.99

Organic Gala, Fuji, Red Delicious or Granny Smith Apples $.98 lb

Meat

USDA Choice Black Angus Boneless Beef Skirt Steak $5.99 lb

All Natural Fresh Ground Sirloin $4.69 lb

Fresh Harvestland All Natural Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast $4.99 lb

Mariano’s Own Fresh Store Made Italian Sausage $2.99 lb

USDA Choice Black Angus Beef Pinwheels $6.99 lb

Fresh All Natural Grass Fed New York Strip or Ribeye $16.99 lb

All Natural Bone-In Pork Loin Chops or Roasts $3.49 lb

USDA Choice Strauss Lamb Shoulder Chops $9.99 lb

Fresh Live Mussels 2 lb bag $4.99 lb

Jumbo King Crab Legs 12-14 ct. $19.99 lb

Fresh Boneless Farm Raised Steelhead Fillets $8.99 lb

Roundy’s 16-20 ct. Cooked Tail-On Shrimp $14.99 lb

Jumbo 16-20 ct. Raw White USA Shrimp $12.99 lb

Wild Salmon Burgers 4 oz. 2/$5

Fresh Atlantic Flounder Fillets $8.99 lb

Deli

Sara Lee Oven Roasted Turkey Breast $5.99 lb Print $1.50 here, 3/18 RP (exp 4/30)

            Final Price as low as $.99 during Double Daze

Green Ridge Farms Westphalian Ham $7.99 lb

Dietz and Watson London Broil Roast Beef $7.99 lb

Parmacotta Mortadella $4.99 lb

Daisy Brand Prasky $3.99 lb

Wisconsin Muenster Cheese $3.99 lb

Sun Garden Pasta Salad $2.99 lb

Chicken Milanese $2.99 each

Bistro Bow Tie Pasta Salad $4.99 lb

Vero Gelato 6 oz. $1.99 each

Bakery

Mousse Cakes $12.75 each

Artisan Sourdough, French Baguette or Pugliese Round Soup Bowl $1.99 each

Fresh Made Donuts 2/$1

Gourmet Brownies Cookies ‘N Cream, Chunky Chocolate Caramel or Rocky Road $1.79 each

Authentic Italian Cookies $10.95 lb

Club Rolls 6 ct. White or Wheat $1.99

Cheese

Widmer Cheddar Cheese $14.99 lb

Saint Andre 75% Triple Cream Cheese $14.99 lb

Point Reyes Blue Cheese $14.99 lb

Sartori Reserve Cheeses 5.3 oz. $3.99

Crave Brothers Fresh Mozzarella 8 oz. $2.99

Athenos Feta 6-8 oz. $3.99

Cinco De Mayo

Mission Tostadas or Tortillas 14-27.5 oz. $1.89 Be on the lookout for $1 peelies

            Final Price $.89

La Preferida Taco Seasoning Mix 1.25 oz. $.69

La Preferida Refried Beans or Diced Green Chiles 4-16 oz. $.79

Roundy’s Shredded Cheese 32 oz. $5.99

Roundy’s Sour Cream 16 oz. $.99

Herdez Salsa 16 oz. $1.79

Natural and Organic

Kashi Cookies or Crackers 6-9 oz. $2.79 Print $2 here

            Final Price $.79

Kashi Steam Meals or Entrees 9-10 oz. $2.49 Print $2 here

            Final Price $.49

Kashi Pizza 11.9-12.7 oz. $3.99 Print $2 here

            Final Price $1.99

Roundy’s Organics Coffee 10 oz. $6.49

West Soy Soymilk 32 oz. $1.49

Kashi Cereal or Bars 6.6-17.5 oz. $2.99 Print $2 here

            Final Price $.99

Grocery

Lay’s, Wavy Lay’s, Cheetos, Fritos or Rold Gold Pretzels 7-16 oz. $2.49 4/29 Pepsico, Print various here

            Final Price as low as $1.49 during Double Daze

Kellogg’s Cereal 10.8-25.5 oz. $2.99 Print various here, 4/15 RP

            Final Price varies

Brownberry Wide Pan Bread 24 oz. $2.49

Hellmann’s Mayo 22-30 oz. $2.88 Limit 2 Print $1/2 here Savings Club Members

            Final Price as low as $1.88 during Double Daze

Coca-Cola, Diet Coke or Coke Zero 12 pk. 3/$10.98

Classico Pasta Sauce 8.1-24 oz. $1.99 3/11 SS

            Final Price $1.74 

Heinz Ketchup 40 oz. $1.89

Nabisco Snack Crackers, 100 Calorie Packs or SnackWell’s Cookies 3.9-16 oz. $2.49 limit 2

Knorr Pasta or Rice Sides 3.8-6.4 oz. $.98

San-J Cooking Sauces 10 oz. $2.99 Print $.55 here

            Final Price as low as $1.89 during Double Daze

Donkey Chips 14 oz. $2.49

Dell Alpe Extra Virgin Olive Oil 34 oz. $6.99

Angel Soft 12 Double Roll Bath Tissue $5.98 3/25 RP

            Final Price as low as $5.08 during Double Daze

Sparkle 6-8 Paper Towels $5.98 Print $1 here Savings Club Members

            Final Price as low as $3.98 during Double Daze

Era Liquid Laundry Detergent 100 oz. $5.98

Dairy

Kraft Shredded, Chunk or Big Slice Cheese 5-8 oz. $2.79

Minute Maid Simply, Enhanced or Pure Premium Lemonade, Limeade or Punch or Gold Peak Tea 12 oz. $.99

Roundy’s Sliced Natural Cheese 8 ct. $2.39

Roundy’s Cheese 24 oz. $4.99

Dannon Danimals or Dan-o-nino Yogurt 4-6 pk. $1.99 3/18 SS (exp 4/30)

            Final Price $1.49

Simply Potatoes or Mac and Cheese 20-24 oz. $2.89

Yoplait Original Yogurt 6 oz. $.59 3/11 SS, Print $.40/6 here

            Final Price $.53 each

Yoplait Light Yogurt With Granola 12 oz. $2.19 3/25 SS

            Final Price as low as $.69 during Double Daze

Kraft MilkBite Milk and Granola Bars 6.15 oz. $2.49 Print $1 here, Print $.75 here

            Final Price as low as $.49 during Double Daze

Jell-O Pudding or Gelatin Snacks 13.8-24 oz. $2.69 $2 from Kraft first Taste, 4/1 SS

            Final Price $.69

Roundy’s Greek Yogurt 6 oz. $.99

Kraft Fresh Take 6 oz. $2.59 Print $.50 here, here

            Final Price as low as $1.59 during Double Daze

Philadelphia Cooking Crème 10 oz. $2.99

Philadelphia Indulgence Cream Cheese 8 oz. $2.29

Frozen

Home Run Inn or Gino’s East Pizza 27-33 oz. $5.49

Jack’s Original 5.3-18.9 oz. $2.79 Limit 2 Print $.50 here

            Final price as low as $1.79 during Double Daze

Lean Cuisine Meals 5-12 oz. $1.99 Print $1/2 here Savings Club, Load $1/3 on Saving Star

            Final Price as low as $.99 during Double Daze

Rudi’s Gluten Free Bread 18 oz. $3.99 Print $1 here, here, $.75 here

            Final Price as low as $1.99 during Double Daze

Ore-Ida Fries, Hash Browns or Tater Tots 16-32 oz. $2.49

Sara Lee Family Pound Cake, Coffeecake, Carrot Cake or Original Cheese cake 11.5-19 oz. $3.49 3/25 RP

            Final Price as low as $1.49 during Double Daze

Kash Steam Meals or Entrees 9-10 oz. $2.49 Print $2 here

            Final Price $.49

Totino’s 40 ct. Pizza Rolls or 4 ct. Pizza Stuffers $2.89 

Bagels Forever Bagels 11.5-11.52 oz. $.89

Pepperidge Farm Stone Baked Artisan Rolls 14 oz. $2.59 3/25 SS

            Final Price as low as $1.09 during Double Daze

Kashi Waffles 8 ct. $2.29 Print $2 here

            Final Price $.99

Roundy’s Select Ice Cream 48 oz. $2.88

Birds Eye Steamfresh Premium or Freshlike Selects Vegetables 10-16 oz. $1.69 4/1 SS (exp 4/29)

            Final Price $1.44

Popsicle Ice Pops 12 ct. $1.79 Print $.50 here

            Final Price as low as $.79 during Double Daze

Misc.

Top Care Vitamins 30-300 ct. B1G1

One-A-Day Multivitamins 50-160 ct. $6.99 3/18 SS, Print $1 here, Print $2 Vita Craves

            Final Price as low as $4.99 during Double Daze

Citracal 60-200 ct. 25% off 3/18 SS

            Final Price varies

Gerber Graduates Puffs, Wagon Wheels or Lil’ Crunchies $1.98

Huggies Soft Pack Wipes 56-64 ct. $2 4/1 SS (exp 4/28)

            Final Price $1.50

Gerber Good Start Baby Formula 23.2-25.7 oz. 2/$47.98 *Save $8 instantly wyb 2* Print $3.25/2 here

            Final Price $36.73 wyb 2 after coupon and instant savings

Buy $25 worth of Playtex Items and get a $10 cat OYNO

            Schick Women’s Quattro or Intuition Razors or Refills 1-4 ct. $9 Print $2 here

            Schick Quattro, Xtreme 3 or Slim Trim Razors 3-12 ct. $6 Print $2 here

            Hawaiian Tropic or Banana Boat Suncare 6-16 oz. $8 4/22 SS, Print $1 here

            Schick Hydro Shaving Cream 8.4 oz. $3 4/22 SS

            Playtex Gentle Glide or Sport Tampons 18 ct. $4 Print $1 here, here

            Wet Ones Canisters 40 ct. $2 4/22 SS

Winners!!

We've got winners!! 

Robyn won the Perfect Energy giveaway! 

Rena won the Purple LED Lights giveaway!

Winning emails have been sent from rosiedickens@hotmail.com

Trix Treats

By now, y'all know that I just love any kind of treats.  Rice krispy treats have always been a favorite of mine.  I remember my mom used to make them when I was little.  And with four kids in the house (and dogs) they never lasted long.  These treats are a little bit different because the treats are very thick and so bright and colorful.  Depending on what kind of cereal you use its possible to alter the recipe so the cereal is well coated and not dry.  And trust me, the kid in you will love them just as much as your own kids.

Trix Treats

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
dash of salt
8 cups mini marshmallows
12 cups cereal
1 teaspoon vanilla

Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Using a very large deep pot, melt butter on medium.  Then add marshmallows, stir often.  When marshmallows are completely melted, remove from heat.  Add a dash of salt and vanilla.  Stir to combine.  This is where you'll adjust your cereal amounts.  With Trix it takes about 10 cups of cereal to get it all evenly coated without leaving extra marshmallow goo or dry spots.  When evenly coated, scoop/pour into the 9x13 pan.  Use a spatula to spread cereal evenly.  If needed use hands to pack into pan.  Allow to cool completely.

Pop out of pan when cool and place on cutting board to make cutting easier.

Wholesome Wednesday: Chocolate Souffle

I can honestly say I’ve never had a soufflé before.  It’s just never really appealed to me as I’m not a chocoholic.  I’d rather have something vanilla, caramel or fruity.  But these seemed simple and baked perfectly.  Not a single one of them fell.  I think that’s truly impressive for my first try making them.  And as with most of my recipes, this one is quite quick to make.  But it makes a ton of dishes.  That’s the only real downside.  

If you don’t have any bittersweet baking chocolate, you can substitute a square of semisweet chocolate.  Make sure to adjust the sugar to 3 tablespoons.  If you prefer a darker chocolate taste, you’ll want to add less sugar when melting the chocolate also.  

Wholesome Wednesday: Chocolate Soufflé

1/2 cup milk

2 tablespoons flour

1 tablespoon butter

2 eggs, beaten separately

1 oz. square of bittersweet chocolate

5 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons water

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter then whisk in flour.  Whisking constantly, cook mixture for 1 minute, slowly pour milk in whisking continuously.  Cook, whisking constantly till mixture is smooth and thick.  (Think texture of pate choux dough).  In a smaller saucepan add sugar and water to chocolate square and heat, stirring occasionally.  When chocolate is shiny, mix it with the milk sauce.  Cool.  While cooling, beat egg whites till stiff.  Stir beaten egg yolks into chocolate mixture and then fold in beaten egg whites.  Bake in four greased ½ cup ramekins set in a pan of hot water and bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes. 

Marbled Bundt Cake

I absolutely love bundt cake.  Pretty much any flavor with or without frosting.  They're all my favorites.  I'd easily pick them over another dessert.  This is my go to recipe.  It's incredibly simple.  It uses ingredients that are found in most American kitchens and it always turns out fabulous.

You can also serve this to guests and they'll never guess that its just a doctored cake mix.  I know, I know, I'm huge on baking and cooking things from scratch.  But I've been using this recipe for forever.  We're talking at least middle school.  I've seriously been baking and cooking that long.

Marbled Bundt Cake

1 yellow cake mix
1 small box instant vanilla pudding
1 1/4 cups water
1/3 cup oil
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 eggs

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.  Grease 12 cup bundt pan.  If you use a pan with lots of fluting, make sure to flour also.

Place all ingredients in mixing bowl.  Beat on low for 30 seconds, scraping bowl as needed.  Beat on high for 2 minutes.

Remove 1 1/2 cups batter to a small bowl.  Add to that 3/4 cup powdered sugar and 1/4 cup baking cocoa.  Mix well. 

Pour rest of batter into pan evenly.  Drop chocolate mixture by the spoonful on to batter already in the pan.  Using a knife swirl through chocolate to marble batter. 

Bake 40-46 minutes until a test toothpick comes out clean.  Cool for 15 minutes in the pan before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.

I have to brag about my beautiful rose metal cake dome.  I absolutely love it.  I found it at a garage sale for fifty cents!!  Can you believe it?  Its incredibly nifty.  It has locking tabs on the bottom of the platter which keeps the cover on whilst traveling or just sitting on the counter.  I can't imagine using anything else to serve a cake with.  I used to have a Mikasa Crystal cake stand which was pretty, but the base cracked off when it was being washed.  And that was the end of that.  I'm sure you'll be seeing more of it in recipes to come.