So Many Casseroles {A Gooseberry Patch Review & Giveaway}

Yes! I am back with another great cookbook from my friends at Gooseberry Patch. I tell you what, these folks just keep getting better and better with their recipe collections! Each time I get one of their books, I am amazed at how many delicious dishes they can fit between the two covers. 

This one holds a special place in my heart because it is filled with one of my favorite things...casseroles. You have heard your Everyday Mom (Yes, that's me) say it time and time again.."Casseroles are a busy mom, or dad's best friend." A yummy, simple meal that can be on the table when your family is hungry, and you don't have to be in the kitchen for hours preparing it! 

When I started the elimination process of picking one recipe to share with ya'll, it wasn't easy! There are terrific ideas for everything from breakfast and brunch, all the way through dessert. But the minute I saw the word cabbage, I stopped in my tracks.  We are cabbage fiends. Seriously, we can't get enough of the stuff. It's really becoming an addiction of sorts. And even though I have a recipe for a Cabbage Roll Casserole, I knew by reading the ingredients, this one would taste very different, but yet still familiar. 

Now, I will warn you, this one slow cooks in the oven, so make sure you've got a little extra time on your hands. Maybe for a Sunday supper. Or make it ahead and reheat! I'm sure it would taste great like that too. But it's all worth it, because it is so incredibly tasty, and hearty too! We gobbled the entire dish down, and everyone went back for seconds.

If you are a casserole lover like me, this cookbook has to be added to your collection. And you're in luck, because I've got an extra copy to give away! Just scroll to the bottom to see how!

Unstuffed Cabbage

1 1/2 lbs. ground beef

3 TBS long grain rice, uncooked

2 eggs

2 tsp. minced white onion

1 (28 oz.) can diced tomatoes

1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste
1/2 c. packed brown sugar
1/2 c. white vinegar
2 tsp. dried onion
1 medium head cabbage, chopped
Salt and Pepper to taste
Dried Parsley, for garnish*
In a large bowl mix together beef, rice, fresh onion, eggs, salt and pepper. Form into (12) 1-inch balls. Set aside. In another bowl, combine tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar and dried onion. Mix well. Grease a 9x13 baking dish and place half of the cabbage in the bottom. Top with half of the tomato mixture. Add meatballs. Pour remaining sauce over top. Sprinkle with remaining cabbage. Cover with foil. Bake at 325 for 1 hour. Reduce heat to 250 and bake an additional 3 hours. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Shared at Weekend Potluck

***Giveaway***

To Enter: Leave me a comment sharing your favorite casserole. Be sure to include your email address so I can find the winner!

 Open to US Residents 18 and older

Contest Ends: March 21, 2016 

Disclaimer: I received two cookbooks in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Christmas at Grandma's Day 2

Did you catch Monday's post? It was a terrific festive veggie salad that would be beautiful on your holiday table. And today I'm sharing what would be a tasty main dish alongside it!

I'm kind of a chicken addict. I love it any and all ways, and if it weren't for husband I wold more than likely cook it multiple times per week. But as it is, he isn't the biggest chicken fan in the world, so I try to limit myself to once every week, or even every other. And when I do make it, I know he will be more likely to enjoy it if it's white meat. While I love the flavor of the dark, he is the exact opposite.

So when I saw this recipe in Christmas at Grandma's, I knew it could be a happy compromise for us both. Now, I will admit I'm not a fan of breaded baked chicken. It's not my first choice because I am always afraid of it coming out mushy or bland or both, but with this recipe neither is a worry!

This comes out with a crispy outside, tender and juicy inside and flavor galore! If you're going to be entertaining holiday guests, this would be a great choice. Simple and quick for the host and delicious for your guests.

We can all use more chicken options, rather it be for the holidays or a weeknight meal. Oh, and you can have a chance to win a copy of this new Gooseberry Patch cookbook too! Just click here to enter!

Zesty Baked Chicken

3-4 boneless chicken breasts, patted dry

1/4 c. butter, melted

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 c. bread crumbs

1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp. dried oregano

1/4 tsp. paprika

2 tsp. dried parsley

Salt and Pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350. Season chicken with salt and pepper. In one shallow dish combine butter and garlic powder. In another mix together bread crumbs, cheese, oregano, paprika, parsley, salt and pepper. Lightly grease a 9 x 13 baking dish. Dip each piece of chicken in butter and then cover in bread crumbs. Shake off excess. Place in baking dish. Cover. Bake for 45-60 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15 more minutes. 

Shared at Weekend Potluck

Christmas at Grandma's {A Gooseberry Patch Review & Giveaway}

Oh, Christmas time at grandma's. My childhood is filled with so many memories of such special times in the snowy hills of Pennsylvania at both of my grandmas' houses I can't even begin to tell you how much they mean to me. Waking up on Christmas morning while it was still dark to see what Santa had left under the tree, going to Christmas Eve church, all the smells of my favorite treats, family gathered around...seriously, I tear up just thinking about it. To me, those holidays of years gone by will always be some of my favorite ones.

And now, my good friends at Gooseberry Patch have made an entire book out of the idea of Christmas at Grandma's. For many of us, there are some Christmas time dishes that nobody will ever make as good as grandma. No matter how many times we try, or how close we come, we will never be able to recreate exactly how they taste when grandma made them.

This book is a fantastic collection of all sorts of delicious things to enjoy this holiday season. From main dishes, to sides, to of course the sweets, each page is more delectable than the last.

When I first saw this recipe it reminded me of my Grammy's broccoli salad, which was always on our Christmas Eve menu, so I immediately got a warm fuzzy feeling thinking about it. I love the addition of cauliflower to this one, not to mention it is so pretty on a plate, filled with holiday colors.

Whatever you are planning to serve this holiday, this would be a fantastic side dish alongside it. Plus, if you have to make something and travel with it, this would hold up very nicely. With the dressing not being very "wet", the veggies stay nice and crisp even after sitting for some time.


If you have wonderful memories of Christmases gone by at your grandma's house like me, I hope you feel as blessed as I do. Or maybe now you are the grandma, and you want to make sure you are making those memories for the little ones to hold on to for years to come!

Oh, and you can win a copy of Christmas at Grandma's too! Just scroll down to see how to enter!

Festive Broccoli & Cauliflower Salad

 1 medium head cauliflower, finely chopped

2 medium broccoli crowns, finely chopped

1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

1 (3.5 oz.) bag dried cranberries

1 (2.5 oz.) bag real bacon bits

1/2 c. plus 1 TBS mayo

1/2 c. white sugar

1 TBS ranch dressing mix

Salt and Pepper to taste 

In a large bowl combine broccoli, cauliflower, red pepper, cranberries and bacon bits. Toss to combine. In a separate bowl whisk together mayo, sugar and ranch dressing mix. Add to vegetables. Stir to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Chill 1-2 hours before serving. Stir before serving.

*** GIVEAWAY ***

To Enter: Leave me a comment telling me your favorite Christmas time dish that Grandma made best! Be sure to leave an email address so I can find you!

Open to US Residents 18 and over

Contest Ends: December 10, 2015 

Shared at Weekend Potluck

Fresh Family Meals {A Gooseberry Patch Review & Giveaway]

It's that time again! Oh, so many things could be applied to that statement, but in EMM land right now, it refers to another awesome Gooseberry Patch cookbook; and the chance for one of you to walk away with a copy for yourself!

Fresh and Easy Family Meals is filled with over 200 yummy recipes your family is sure to love. Plus, like so many of their cookbooks, a ton of helpful kitchen tips!

Page after page has something else you will want to try. Take it from me, don't dog ear the pages with ones you want to make. Why? Because every single page will be marked!!

From main dishes, to sides to desserts, you could feed your family for months just from this cookbook! I had to really narrow it down to one I wanted to feature, and boy did I pick a winner!

This is a simple side dish for any meal that you can feel really good about serving! The bright, fresh lemon flavor takes it from simple to scrumptious. Plus, any chance I have to use fresh spinach, I'm happy. We love the stuff, and it's filled with so many vitamins and minerals! The person who submitted the recipe to Gooseberry suggested serving it with baked chicken, so that's exactly what I did; and it was fan-freakin-tastic!

I adapted this just a little bit to fit our tastes, but I've included the page number so you can see the original recipe. I can't wait to make this again during those looonngggg winter months when we crave something fresh and bright to remind us of summer time flavors. There are so many ways I can think to serve it, and maybe even add some sauteed shrimp for full meal deal!

If you're looking for something new, that's also pretty healthy you've come to the right place. Oh, and don't forget to enter to win a copy of Fresh and Easy Family Meals for yourself. Just scroll down under the recipe to see how!

Lemony Spinach Orzo

Original Recipe found on page 72

1 lb. orzo pasta

8 oz. fresh spinach, chopped

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. lemon zest

Juice of 1/2 lemon

4 TBS butter 

Salt and Pepper to taste

Cook orzo according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet melt butter over medium heat. Add spinach, in batches, until starting to wilt. Add garlic powder and stir. When pasta is cooked, drain very well. Add to skillet. Toss to combine. Add lemon zest, juice, salt and pepper. Stir well. 

 

******GIVEAWAY******

To Enter: Leave a comment telling me you want to win. That's it. Easy!! Just be sure to leave an email address so I can notify the winner.

Bonus Entry: Become a Fan of Gooseberry Patch on Facebook. Leave a comment telling me you have.

(1) Winner will win a copy of Fresh and Easy Family Meals.

Open to US Residents 18 and over only.

Contest Ends: Sept. 16, 2015

Disclaimer: I received a cookbook in exchange for this review. And one to give away. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Shared at Weekend Potluck

Sunday Dinner at Grandma's Day 2 {A Gooseberry Patch Review & Giveaway}

If you didn't catch the first recipe I featured from Gooseberry Patch's new book on Wednesday, be sure to click here to see a yummy goulash your family is sure to love!

Today's dish was actually something I've been looking for a great recipe for quite some time now; but I could never find one "just right." Nothing exactly what I was looking for. Exactly what I had in mind. I was actually working on taking a bit from several different ones to make my own when this book came in the mail; and there it was! Like kismet! Fate!

I served this for supper on a chilly night (Yes, chilly in May. It was pathetic.) and it was so comforting! I think it would also make a fantastic Sunday brunch dish too. In fact, add some fresh fruit on the side and no matter what time of day you serve it, it's a meal! With potatoes, ham and cheese, it's an all-in-one casserole they whole family will devour! Think hash brown casserole on steroids! More cheese. Meat. Did I mention more cheese?

Sunday dinners at Grandma's are a tradition so many families enjoy and treasure. And now we have an entire book filled with fantastic, tasty recipes to try at our next one! Don't forget, you can win a copy of this great cookbook for yourself! Just click here for details!

Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole 

Submitted by Tricia Roberson King George, VA Found on pg. 143

1 (32 oz.) bag frozen diced potatoes

1 lb. ham, chopped

2 green onions, chopped

1 (10 3/4 oz.) can cream of potato soup

1 (10 3/4 oz.) can cream of celery soup

1 c. milk

1 (8 oz.) container sour cream

2 c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

Salt and Pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350. Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients, except 1 c. cheese. Mix well to combine. Turn out into prepared dish. Bake uncovered for 1 hour. Sprinkle top with reserved cheese. Bake 30 additional minutes. Allow to stand for a few minutes before serving. *NOTE* I added a little dried parsley on top for some color.

Shared on The Country Cook May 29, 2015

Sunday Dinner At Grandma's Day 1 { A Gooseberry Patch Review & Giveaway}

Sunday dinners at Grandma's. Oh the images those words can conjure up in our heads. Maybe an Italian grandma slaving away over the stove all day making the perfect "gravy" for over some pasta. Or maybe a little lady taking a roast chicken from the oven with mashed potatoes boiling away stove top. Any way you cut it, the images lead to loved ones gathered around the table, enjoyed delicious food cooked with love.

For me, growing up 6 hours away from both of my grandmas, I wasn't lucky enough to have a lot of Sunday dinners with them, but that doesn't mean I can't appreciate how special it is! Plus, my son is so blessed to grow up about 20 minutes away from both of his grandmas, so he will be able to have those memories I was never able to. 

And now, thanks to my friends at Gooseberry Patch and their new cookbook, Sunday Dinner at Grandma's, we can all enjoy dishes that would make any granny proud, any day of the week! Oh, the yummy things they compiled in this one! It's cover to cover filled with so much deliciousness!

The minute I saw the word goulash, I was intrigued. Then when I went on to read the recipe, my curiosity was only solidified. This dish is unlike any goulash we've ever had. Okay, it has ground beef in it, but that is where the similarities end. Well, that and the fact they are super simple, perfect for a weeknight and sure to please your hungry bunch. To me, this tastes like something the cowboys would eat out on the trail off the chuck wagon! So hearty and full of protein, veggies and a little chili kick!

Be sure to read the note in the recipe to see the additions I made to the original recipes. Oh, and scroll down to the end of the post to see how you can win a copy of Sunday Dinner at Grandma's for yourself! Or maybe for your grandma!

Country Goulash

Submitted by Amy Woods Collinsville, TX Found on pg. 154

1 lb. lean ground beef

1 clove garlic, minced

1 onion, chopped

1 green pepper, chopped

16 oz. pkg. tri-color rotnini, cooked

1 (14 oz.) can diced tomatoes, drained

1 (16 oz.) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained

3 TBS chili powder

1/2 tsp. salt

In a large saucepan over medium heat, brown beef with garlic, onion and pepper. Drain. Add cooked pasta and remaining ingredients; toss to coat. Heat through over low heat. Serves 4-6. *NOTE* I used 1 tsp. garlic powder instead of fresh clove. I also added 2 TBS Worcestershire sauce after meat was browned. I topped mine with about 1/4 c. Monterrey Jack cheese and chopped green onions.

Shared on The Country Cook May 29, 2015

*********Giveaway*********

To Enter: Leave a comment telling me your favorite dish Grandma used to (or still does) make. Be sure to leave an email address so I can find you!

Extra Entry: Follow Gooseberry Patch on Facebook

(1) Winner will receive (1) copy of Sunday Dinner at Grandma's. 

Contest Ends: June 10, 2015

Disclaimer: I received a free cookbook in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Mom Knows Best Day 2 {A Review and Giveaway from Gooseberry Patch}

If you didn't have time to log on Wednesday, you missed the debut of the newest cookbook from Gooseberry Patch. You can read all about it here, and see the yummy soup I made too!

For the second recipe I wanted to share with all of you, I didn't even have to turn the page from the soup recipe. Yep, they are on the same one in the book. And it was a genius move because they go so well together. When I make soup, we have to have what I call a "dipper" on the side. That can be a sandwich, sliced bread, biscuits, rolls...anything along those lines. So, it was as if the folks at Gooseberry Patch read my mind when they featured this recipe right under that minestrone one I wanted to try.

Plus, both of these were in the section Kids in the Kitchen. Well, ya'll know how much my little man loves to my sous chef! And you've heard me say it 100 times. Get your little ones into the kitchen, cooking, exploring, helping, and learning. It's a great way to curb some of their picky eating habits. Why? Because if they help to prepare dinner, they will be much less likely to complain about it because of the sense of pride they will feel!

Anyway, back to these tasty little biscuits. If you've ever had pull-apart bread, this is very similar. It would be great for parties or holidays too...easy to adapt to feed more. Double the recipe and put them in a 9 x 13 pan. I think they would be very tasty with your Easter ham!

I love finding new ways to serve bread with soup. The combination if such a staple in our house, and I don't like to fall into food ruts! Oh, and you have a chance to win a copy of Mom Knows Best for yourself. Just click here to enter!

Biscuit Buddies
1 (12 oz.) can refrigerated biscuits, each quartered
1/4 c. butter, melted and divided
2 TBS Italian seasoning, divided
1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350. Mix half the butter and Italian seasoning together. Pour into bottom of 8 x 8 baking dish. Add biscuit quarters in single layer. Mix other half of butter and Italian seasoning together and pour over biscuits. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden. *NOTE* I added some dried parsley to the top, after the cheese, for extra color. 

Shared on The Country Cook Mar. 13, 2015

Biscuits at Very Good Recipes

Mom Knows Best Day 1 {A Gooseberry Patch Review and Giveaway}

Mom knows best. Well, duh!! Of course she does. And if I'm talking to my son, of course I do! It's truly one of those things we can depend on 100% in life. When it comes to cooking, the adage definitely runs true for so many of our favorite dishes and meals. After all, there will always be things that no matter how many times I make them, will forever taste better when mom makes them. So, with that in mind, I'm super excited to share the latest cookbook from my friends at Gooseberry Patch with all of you, Mom Knows Best.

"Easy recipes for modern moms feeding their families well." That pretty much sums it up. This cookbook is filled with super easy recipes busy moms (and dads!) can get on the table fast that their loved ones will not only gobble up, but ask for again and again. This is my kind of cooking! And I know yours too! This book was made for this everyday mom, and all of you who read this blog on a daily basis! Good food fast! Oh, and I just happen to have a recipe in this one too! Check out page 143 for my Slow Cooker (Alex's) Meatball Subs! 

When I sat down to decide which recipes I would feature, I really wanted to find a stove top soup. So many of my greatest soup recipes are for the slow cooker, and they are fantastic, but I really wanted one I could do completely stove top, but still fast. Well, I found exactly what I was looking for, and even something to go with it too! In fact, I found them on the same page! Talk about making easy even easier! 

If you have some veggies hanging out in the crisper drawer that need to be used before they end up in the trash can, this is the perfect way! You could easily add or subtract depending on what you have. But don't think because it's all veggies, it's not filling. After all, it does have a little bit of bacon and pasta in it too! 

If your mom always knows best when it comes to cooking, and everything else in life, you are not alone! Now we have an entire cookbook of mom approved recipes for your hectic schedule. Feeding your family food they will love shouldn't have to be a hassle, and the folks at Gooseberry Patch understand that very well! 

Stove Top Minestrone 

aka Mmmm- Minestrone

Found on page 186

Submitted by April Jacobs Loveland, CO

3 slices bacon, chopped

1/2 c. onion, chopped

1/2 c. celery, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 3/4 c. water

1 (14.5 oz) can Italian style diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (14.5 oz) can beef broth

1 (10 3/4 oz.) can bean and bacon soup

1 c. zucchini, peeled and diced

1 c. cabbage, chopped

1/2 c. elbow macaroni, uncooked

Salt to Taste

In a soup post over medium heat, cook bacon with onion, celery and garlic until bacon is crisp; drain. Add water, tomatoes and remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer until macaroni is tender, stirring often, about 15 minutes. Serves 6. *NOTE* I used ditalini pasta instead of elbows. I also added 1 tsp. Italian seasoning, 2 tsp. dried parsley and black pepper to taste. I garnished with a little shredded Parmesan cheese. I also left the peel on the zucchini because I think it holds up better in soups.

Shared on The Country Cook Mar. 13, 2015

Soup at Very Good Recipes

***Giveaway***

To Enter: Leave a comment telling me your favorite recipe from YOUR mom!

Bonus Entry #1: Become a fan of Gooseberry Patch on Facebook.

Bonus Entry #2: Follow Gooseberry Patch on Twitter.

Be sure to leave an email address so I can find you!

Contest Ends: March 25, 2015

US Residents ONLY please.

(1) winner will receive (1) copy of Mom Knows Best.

Disclaimer: I received 2 cookbooks in exchange for this review. One to keep. One to giveaway. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Slow Cooker Christmas Favorites Day 2 {A Review and Giveaway}

Welcome to day two of my latest review for Gooseberry Patch! If you missed day one Friday because maybe you were out shopping, or still in a food coma from Thanksgiving, you can see that terrific recipe here. 

For my second recipe I chose something I knew my boys would gobble up; and I could make on a busy day when I was going to be out all day, and had absolutely no time to devote to cooking. 

Now, before I go any further, I feel the need to put a sort of disclaimer on this recipe. I know many of you out there avoid condensed soups in your diet; and when you read just how many cans are included in this you will wince. I respect that. But what I ask for those of you who feel that way, please don't look down upon those of us who say it's okay to use them now and again, to save us some time and stress. Please don't make comments on this post, or on my Facebook page. Please don't email me and tell me I'm poisoning my family. (Yes, I have actually had this comment before on recipes that included canned soups.) Please don't send any hate mail to my home with nutrition labels. I respect those who choose not to use them; and all I ask is you do the same. 

Whew, with that out of the way, I can honestly say my family loved this. It was the perfect way to warm up on a very cold day, and it was just as good when Mr. E had to eat it a couple hours after I served dinner.

Oh, plus the fine folks at Gooseberry Patch are giving EMM readers a chance to WIN a copy of this fantastic cookbook! Just click here to enter! 

Crock Pot Clam Chowder

Submitted by Jewel Sharpe Raleigh, NC Found on pg. 123

3 (10 3/4 oz.) cans cream of potato soup

2 (10 3/4 oz.) cans New England clam chowder

1 pint half and half

2 ( 6.5 oz.) cans chopped clams

1/2 c. butter, sliced

1/2 c. onion, diced

Salt and Pepper to taste*

1 TBS dried parsley*

Oyster Crackers*

Combine all ingredients except crackers and parsley in slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 2-4 hours. Right before serving, stir in parsley and garnish with crackers. 

*These were my additions

Shared on The Country Cook Dec. 5, 2014

Slow Cooker Christmas Favorites Day 1 {A Gooseberry Patch Review}

Good Morning! Happy Black Friday! I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I hope you ate lots, and are still full this morning! 

In our house, today is the official start to the Christmas season. Sure, we've been listening to Christmas music for a month now, but we really try to wait for everything else Christmas related, so Thanksgiving gets the attention and love it deserves. But now we can trim the tree, hang our stockings and get ready for our favorite time of year.

Now ya'll know how much I love Christmas....and Gooseberry Patch...and my slow cooker. So, you know I'm super excited to share their newest cookbook with you...that combines all THREE of those! 

This book has everything you need for your Christmas season. From main dishes, to sides, to candy and cookies, to even condiments that would make great gifts! And they are all for your crock pot! Talk about your new best friend during this busy time of year! 

The first recipe I am sharing gives a little nod to one of my boys' favorite Christmas movies, A Christmas Story. Every year we have to watch, usually multiple times thanks to the 24 hour marathon on TBS, and one of the funniest parts is when on Christmas Day they have to eat in the Chinese restaurant. If you've never seen it, I won't ruin it; but if you have, you know exactly what I am talking about. 

So, when I saw this I had to chuckle to myself. Plus, I know many of you will have a house full of people to feed, and this will get the job done and keep you on budget! Not to mention, it's simple to make and absolutely delicious. 

Plus, you have a chance to win a copy of this new cookbook for yourself. Just scroll down under the recipe to see how!

The Christmas season is finally here. I could not be happier; and I'm happy to kick off the holidays here on EMM with this gift to you. Oh, and come back on Monday to see the next recipe...it's a keeper too! 

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Submitted By Beth Kramer Port Saint Lucie, FL Found on page 182

1 onion, cut into thin wedges

1 (20 oz.) can pineapple cubes, drained

1 TBS oil

8 chicken thighs, skin removed

1/2-3/4 c. favorite teriyaki basting and glazing sauce

Cooked rice

Green onions sliced, for garnish

Sesame Seeds, for garnish

Salt and Pepper to taste

Garlic Powder to taste (my addition) 

Place onion and pineapple in a greased slow cooker; set aside. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Brown in skillet for about 4 minutes per side, until golden. Drain. Add chicken to slow cooker. Spoon sauce over chicken. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours, or until chicken is no longer pink. Serve chicken, onion and pineapple over cooked rice. Spoon some sauce over top. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

Disclaimer: I received (2) copies of this cookbook in exchange for this review. One to keep, one to giveaway. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Slow Cooker Fall Favorites Day 1 {A Review and Giveaway}

That's right! It's almost that time! Cool fall days with crisp fall nights are headed our way quicker than you think, or in my case, much quicker than I would like. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy fall; and everything it brings with it. Apple picking, bonfires, pumpkins, fall festivals...I love it all. 

However I hate what comes after fall, and I long for summer so much. So, if we could have autumn for a couple months, skip winter and go right back into summer...I'd be a happy camper. But alas, I live in the Midwest, where we enjoy (or endure) all 4 seasons. So I better find a way to cope. And what a better way than a brand new cookbook from my good friends at Gooseberry Patch, full of not only fall inspired recipes...but all of them are for our Crock Pots!!

I don't think there is a time of year I enjoy using my slow cooker more than fall. There is just something about being outside enjoying a cool, sunny autumn day, and then coming back to a warm, comforting meal waiting on me. As much as I use my slow cooker year round, it probably sits on the counter top the most during the autumn months. 

In this fabulous book you'll find everything from breakfast ideas, to great tailgating ideas (Another one of the reasons I love fall...football!!!), warm soups and delicious main dishes, to sweet treats to end your meal with.

When I started to thumb through my copy, I immediately knew I had to try a soup. Soups and slow cookers are just a match made in heaven to me. They are what I cook the most in mine, so it was only natural. The minute I saw this recipe I was totally intrigued. See, I have another recipe for the same dish, but it differs in two major ways. One, it contains meat; and while delicious, I'm always on the lookout for meat free options for both my family and to share with all of my vegetarian fans. And two, my other recipe cooks stove top, so this one is immediately easier!

If you love to throw something in your Crock Pot and then head to work, and know supper is waiting on you at the end of a long day, this recipe is for you. Seriously, take about 5 minutes in the morning to open a few cans, stir, and forget it. When supper time rolls around, boil some pasta and dinner can be on the table in almost no time. And not just any dinner. A warm, comforting bowl of delicious soup, bursting with flavor that will warm your soul!

Autumn is on it's way, and while we still have some very warm days ahead of us, it's time to start thinking about all the yummy things we have to look forward to! Oh, and the great folks at Gooseberry Patch have a copy of Slow Cooker Fall Favorites for one lucky EMM reader too. Just scroll down to the giveaway! 

Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli 

Bela's Favorite Pasta Fagioli

Contributed by Julie Dossantos Fort Pierce, Fl, Found on pg. 108

1 tsp. olive oil

2 (14.5 oz.) cans Italian diced tomatoes

1 (15 oz.) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

2 cloves garlic, diced

1/2 c. fresh basil, chopped

2 TBS Italian seasoning

1 1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. pepper

2 (32 oz.) boxes chicken or vegetable broth

1 lb. ditalini pasta, cooked

Thinly sliced mozzarella cheese, for garnish

Combine oil, undrained tomatoes, beans, garlic, basil and seasonings in a slow cooker. Mix well. Add broth. Stir. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours. Divide pasta among soup bowls. Ladle soup over pasta. Garnish each bowl with cheese. Serves 6-8. 

*NOTE* I used 1 TBS dried basil in place of fresh and garnished with shredded mozzarella. 

Shared on The Country Cook Aug. 22, 2014

Soup at Very Good Recipes

***Giveaway***

To Enter: Leave a comment telling me your favorite slow cooker autumn inspired dish.

Bonus Entry #1: Become a fan of Gooseberry Patch on Facebook.

Bonus Entry #2: Follow Gooseberry Patch on Twitter.

Be sure to leave an email address so I can find you!

Contest Ends: September 3, 2014

Disclaimer: I was provided with (2) cookbooks from Gooseberry Patch in exchange for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

FOOLPROOF Family Recipes Day 2

That's right, I'm back with yet another tasty, simple recipe from the new Gooseberry Patch cookbook, FOOLPROOF Family Recipes. If you didn't stop by on Wednesday to see the first recipe I featured, Garden Macaroni Salad, click here because you don't want to miss that instant summer classic!

For today's pick, I chose something I knew would be a light summer salad supper the entire family would love. The two things that stood out right away when I saw this recipe were 1. the addition of cashews--something we eat by the pound in this house and 2. the homemade dressing! I think anytime you have the chance to make a salad dressing from scratch, it tastes so much better!! 

If you like salads with a crunch, this will not disappoint. There is nothing but crunch in this one! And if you haven't had many salads that combine veggies and fruit (which I absolutely adore) this is a great one to start with! The sweetness of the apple and pear and the tartness of the cranberries marry so well together. Plus, you've got the creaminess from the cheese and this amazing dressing. I really can't say enough about how delicious all of these flavors come together. 

This salad would be perfect for a brunch, lunch, light supper, potluck, backyard barbecue...really any time, any where! And if you want a chance to win a copy of FOOLPROOF Family Recipes for yourself, you're in luck because I'm giving one away. Just click here for details!

Orchard Salad

Submitted by Carrie O'Shea Marina Del Rey, CA Found on page 66

1 head Romaine lettuce, torn

1 Gala apple, cored and thinly sliced

1 Bartlett pear, cored and thinly sliced

3/4 c. shredded Swiss cheese

3/4 c. cashews, coarsely chopped

1/2 c. sweetened dried cranberries

Poppy Seed Dressing

2/3 c. oil (I used vegetable)

1/2 c. sugar

1/3 c. lemon juice

1 1/2 TBS poppy seed

2 tsp. dried minced onion

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp. salt

Toss together all salad ingredients in a large bowl. In a blender, combine all dressing ingredients. Cover and process until smooth. Serve drizzled over salad. Dressing may keep in fridge for up to 1 week. Serve at room temperature. 

 

Shared on The Country Cook June 27, 2014

FOOLPROOF Family Recipes Day 1 {A Review and Giveaway}

It's time for another debut from my good friends over at Gooseberry Patch! Their newest cookbook, FOOLPROOF Family Recipes is stuffed full of easy to make, never fail, yummy to eat dishes you are going to love cooking and your family is going to love eating!

From breakfast, to salads, to mains, sides, desserts and appetizers, there is literally something simple to make for every meal of the day! Oh, and did I mention I just happen to have not one, but two recipes included in this collection? Yep, on page 98 you'll find Grandma's Baked Mac n Cheese (Everyone loves this no boil version!) and on page 65 you can see my Quick Tomato and Olive Salad, perfect for a busy summer night!

Now, I have to admit, I wasn't even able to get out of the Cool Refreshing Salads section before I was ready to start cooking and eating. And while there are many recipes I have marked to try, both of the ones I will be sharing with you (be sure to come back on Friday for the next) are indeed salads.

When I first say this, I thought what a great way to combine two of our summer times loves. Pasta salad and garden fresh veggies! I'm telling you what, if you garden and are always looking for ways to use those beautiful fresh vegetables, you're going to love this! It's so fresh, so creamy, so crunch and absolutely delicious...the perfect side dish for any backyard barbecue or picnic!

Summer is in full swing, and I think we've all got refreshing salads on the brain, not to mention easy foolproof recipes...so Gooseberry Patch has us totally covered. Oh, and they just happen to have a copy for one lucky EMM winner too. Just scroll down after the recipe to enter!

Garden Macaroni Salad
Submitted by Ellie Brandel Clackamas, OR Found on page 62

8 oz. elbow macaroni, uncooked
3/4 c. mayo
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. dried basil
2 tomatoes, diced
1 c. cucumber, died
1 c. celery, sliced
1/4 c. green pepper, diced
1/4 c. radishes, sliced
2 TBS green onions, sliced

Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water. In a large serving bowl, stir together mayo, salt and basil. Add macaroni and remaining ingredients; stir to coat. Cover and chill until serving time. Makes 8 servings.  *NOTE* The only addition I made was black pepper to taste. 

Shared on The Country Cook June 27, 2014

********Giveaway********

Rules:

1. This contest is open to US Residents 18 and older ONLY.

2. The winner will be chosen by Random.org 

3. The winner will be notified by email and Facebook. He/she will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. 

4. When leaving comments for entries, they MUST BE SEPARATE ones AND include an email address so it's easy for me to find the winner. If entries are together, it will only count as (1) and if no email, entry will not be considered.

5. If any of the extra entries are items you are already doing, please just remind me!

6. Contest Ends: July 10, 2014

(1) Lucky Winner will receive:

(1) copy of

Mandatory Entry:

1. Leave a comment telling me your favorite foolproof family recipe. 

Extra Entry:

1. Become a Gooseberry Patch fan on Facebook. Leave me a comment when you have.

2.  Follow Gooseberry Patch on Twitter. Leave a comment saying you've done so.

3. Follow Gooseberry Patch on Pinterest. Leave me a comment when you have. 

GOOD LUCK!

Disclaimer: I was given a free cookbook and one to give away to a fan for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.