5-Minute Greek Dip

I am happy to report that in the very near future I will be starting a new blog site for cooking. I have been planning to do so for a while now, but have had zero time to actually start anything. Here is a preview of my recipe posts, site coming soon! (Any feedback of course would be very appreciated!)

Dipping chips. Dipping bread. Dipping veggies. Dipping anything! I have to admit it, I love dips. I came across this dip when I was in desperate need of something quick and yummy for tonight. With only 4 ingredients and a 5 minute prep time, I was sold. The best part is that it also tastes fantastic! I have to give full credit to allrecipes.com contibutor ccnadylland for this wonderful dip.

5-Minute Greek Dip

1/3 Cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 Cup grated parmesan cheese
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened (I used 1/3 less fat cream cheese)
1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato pesto

Directions: In a food processor, blend feta cheese, parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and sun-dried tomato pesto. Blend until completely mixed and smooth (about 3-4 minutes). Serve immediately or refrigerate overnight.

Serve with: veggies (I used carrots, cauliflower, and broccoli) or crackers. I think this would also be good to try with some warmed pita bread.

Calories: 76 / Total Fat: 7.1g / Cholesterol 22 mg

Source: Allrecipes.com contributed by ccandylland

We pronounce it “h-erb” because there is a “h” in it

 

Tea soliloquy

To steep, or not to steep – that is my dilemma.
Whether ‘tis better in my mouth to quench
My tastes and senses in heated haste
Or to wait the elongated test of time
And extract exact flavor. To endure, to perfect.
I wait – tasteless water shall not be the end
Savory flavor, well awaited brew not too soon
Or left too late. ‘Tis the consummation
Ought to be sought. To endure, to perfect.

your first instinct may be to run…or roast marshmallows

Do not panic.

 

Zombies, UFOs, and Godzilla – The Survival Guide

 Be prepared. Be informed. Be ready for the inevitable…

 

Survival Guide Tip #1 – How to survive a zombie attack

Step 1 – Know your zombies. Find out their hideouts and tell-tale signs of zombie symptoms. Since zombie-ism is spread like a disease, the best way to avoid becoming a zombie is to avoid the zombies who spread the disease. This may seem obvious, but you must be prepared to take drastic measures to distance yourself from known zombie infested areas as quickly as possible.

 Step 2 – Dress light and get good running shoes. Although you may feel compelled to protect yourself from zombie bites, just remember that you can most likely out run zombies. Zombies top speed is between 2-2.5 miles per hour, so run, drive, even scooter away to escape. Using difficult running patterns can also be helpful, since zombies can be easily thrown off path by road blocks in their way.  

 Step 3 – Get a gun and A LOT of ammunition. To kill a zombie, you must know how to destroy their brain. The recommended weapon is a gun that you can easily handle. Remember that their brain is smaller than a humans so unless you are a skilled marksman, bring enough ammo to take as many shots as you need. Don’t bother with large, bulky weaponry since it will only slow you down.

 Step 4 – Trust no one. You never know, they could be on the verge of zombie-ism right now.

 

Survival Guide Tip #2 – How to survive a UFO abduction

 Step 1 – Remain calm and survey your surroundings. In the event of abduction, your first priority is to evaluate the situation and what sort of environment you are dealing with. Look around and make a mental list of important factors.

 Step 2 – Look for a way to escape. Evaluate escape options and look for exits. Determine if there is gravity and if you have left Earth or not yet. Keep track of time and look for patterns to help you create an escape plan.

 Step 3 – Fight. If you are still on Earth, attack your captors and escape as quickly as possible. Survey your surroundings and use any objects that can do harm to your alien captor. You may already have objects on you, such as your keys, mace, leftover sandwich…whatever you can get your hands on.       

 Step 4 – Clear your mind. If you cannot escape right away, make sure that your captor aliens cannot acquire any useful information from your mind. Think of mental pictures that remind you of Earth. If that fails, just think of cute puppies or lol cats to throw them off.  

 Step 5– Keep a survival attitude. Daydream, think of Earth and your friends and family. Stay mentally active. You need to have your wits about you so that you can come up with a convincing story once you arrive back on Earth.

 

Survival Guide Tip #3 – How to survive when Godzilla attacks

 Step 1 – Plan your escape routes. Determine the best routes to escape your city in the event of an attack. Remember that there will be mass panic, so avoid major roadways. Map out several routes, since you will not know where the attacks will originate. Do not take trains or large moving vehicles, which are preferred Godzilla “grab” objects.

 Step 2 – Find a hideout underground. Stay away from the roads, buildings and definitely don’t go up in the air. Stay low and hidden in a place away from the destruction path. Basements or bomb shelters are recommended.

 Step 3 – Call in the troops. The only way to take down Godzilla is with heavy artillery.

 Step 4 – Relax and watch. Generally, Godzilla will eventually end up battling another large creature. Keep your distance, break out the concessions, and watch the large scale martial arts unfold.

 

Enjoy.

trees struggle with balding and other issues

 

18.8 million Adult Trees struggle with depression each year

After some vague and indeterminate research, it has been found that trees are in fact receiving less press than usual this year. Trees have enjoyed the spotlight due to their star features in environmental initiatives, countless business logos that have nothing to do with nature and unforgettable movies such as Fern Gully and The Lord of the Rings. Lately though, trees have been cut out of their usual forefront spot by other issues, trees claiming oil and health care reform to be the largest contributor to their fall in stardom. Last week at the national tree convention, the team from the US (including the Bitternut Hickory, Eastern White Pine and the California Incense Cedar) brought forth a new marketing initiative to increase tree exposure: Trees For Africa. Trees will unite in outreach programs to help develop African soil by use of more trees in their farming areas. Trees agreed that charitable action was the number one focus for their marketing campaign in 2010.

Also, presented at the convention was the introduction of the informative book “What Tree is That?”. Trees hope that by reaching all generations with tree identification literature they will increase the understanding and compassion humans have towards trees. Find your copy here: http://www.arborday.org/trees/whattree/

(There was some controversy about the use of paper to create the book, but the vote to go to fabric books was overturned by the Cedars of Lebanon group.)

When the Clathrus columnatus were asked to comment on the lack of tree press, they simply replied that “Trees already have Arbor Day, what are the complaining about?”

Enjoy.

for the cats of grandview (and other letter writing felines)

if i made t-shirts, this is what they would be like

Inspired by my encounter with a stray cat last night…

Dear Human,

First of all, please note that the fact that I am even writing you a letter is an honor I do not bestow often. Most of the time, I would not take the time to address a pathetic biped as yourself. Unfortunately, due to the dire situation you inflicted upon my being, I felt compelled to address you directly.

On Monday night at approximately 2300 hours I was out on the streets of Grandview, MO hunting my prey. With stealth and cunning, I was able to defeat my victims in swift victory (naturally). As I was about to celebrate, I noticed an even greater prize awaiting myself just yards away. What was this prize, you ask? All I can say is that it would have been a prize out of the scope of your own imaginings, yes it would have been too great for your weak understanding, it would have been…alas, I will not waste my words on you.

I am not sure if you are just careless, unintelligent, or heartless but to cut me off by use of your large vehicle was shockingly rude. Next time, remember that as a cat, we always have the right of way. Our agenda and purposes, far superior to any humans, must be adhered to by lesser mortals. As for almost injuring me with your car, you can be thankful that as a feline my agility and speed make up for your reckless behavior.

In the future, the proper course of action would be to stop at a 20 foot distance at the sight of a feline and to wait until it has fully crossed your path. Also there is a wait period of an additional 30-40 seconds just in case the cat has additional need of the space you would like to traverse. These actions should be standard human practice in order for cat and human to live in harmony with each other. Please follow these practices with due diligence in the future.

Not sincerely or with regards,

Black Cat

P.S. I curse you.

quick, the sheep are not looking

do not try this at home

Frequently, I come across recipes that make me very excited. Some are so good that I would classify my excitement as giddy, wet-your-pants, jump-up-and-down excited. In fact, the sort of excited that can be comparable to going back in time to when I was a young kid on Christmas morning excited. Recently, cooking tips and the like have had the same effect. So, when I had come to find the jewel of all cooking tips, I had to share it with everyone.

Last week, I ordered “Jacques Pepin’s Complete Techniques” which is a guide for all of the fundamentals of cooking. Inside are techniques ranging from how to hold a knife to making apple swans. But, little did I know what I would find on p.464…to my delight and fascination…how to cook brains! (with photos)

Brains – excellent, easy to prepare, inexpensive, and nutritional!

So, if you ever come across some veal or lamb brains and are at a loss as to how to prepare them into a tasty meal…I have the tips and techniques for you.

I know you can barely finish reading this b/c of the excitement you may be feeling at this moment at all of the new possibilities, so I will leave you with this brief Bendy Straw aside that has nothing to do with this blog: there are animals that die everyday because they do not have health insurance. Now, I ask you: “What is one life worth?”

Enjoy.

Snow and Pasta

Bendy Straw Wisdom: Snow and food always makes for a delightful day.

What comes from a half day taken off of work, some creative spark and a trip to the grocery store? A culinary explosion, of course! Last Wednesday, I spent the afternoon making marinades, baking bread, saueteing veggies, and cooking up fruit-filled desert. I had some beef brisket on hand that I have been meaning to make for a really long time and decided that it was time to throw it into the crockpot so that we could make bbq beef brisket sandwiches. I also took a few recipes off of a blog I have been recently acquainted with called “Gimme Some Oven” by Ali Ebright. Her recipes are accompanied by color photos and great tips, so check it out: http://www.gimmesomeoven.com/. I made her recipe for the rustic fruit gelate and it turned out beautiful…and yummy. Below is the recipe I made for dinner, it is a greek pasta. A light pasta with vegetables and spices which was basically a mix of spaghetti Olio and fresh tomatoes and basil.

Ingredients:
15-20 grape tomatoes
2 tablespoons of fresh chopped italian parsley
2 tablespoons of fresh chopped basil
1.5 tablespoons chopped thyme leaves (spice)
3 tablespoons 100% Olive Oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/3 tablespoon crushed red pepper
4 oz crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons light butter
3/4 pound spaghetti

Directions: In a saute pan, put in 2 tbsp of olive oil and garlic for about 30-40 seconds, then add tomatoes, parsley, basil, thyme, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Saute for approx 8-10 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft. I covered the pan and then would mix the contents every few minutes. In a pot cook pasta and drain and place in separate bowl.  Combine light butter with the noodles and then add the tomato mixture and feta cheese, mix well together, don’t worry about the tomatoes staying whole. Top off with fresh chopped basil…and if you like spicy-ness a few dashes of Frank’s hot sauce tastes pretty good.

Enjoy.

Stuffed Spicy Style

Stuffed Peppers...waiting to be cooked.

I have become a crock pot addict.

Last week I purchased the cookbook: “Best-Loved Slow Cooker Recipes”. I love to read and I love a great number of books, but there is something about this cookbook that makes me really excited every time I open it. Perhaps it is the fact that it contains many somewhat basic recipes that have a lot of potential…definitely great for experimenting. Another nice feature is that many (almost all) of the recipes are accompanied by a full color photo of the prepared meal. This cookbook also lies flat when open at any page, which while cooking, is admittedly quite an awesome feature.

Tonight I made the “Southwestern Stuffed Peppers” which turned out pretty well. They weren’t as spicy as I was hoping for, but the original recipe was not meant for spicy-ness. Below is the recipe with the changes that I made. (you can find the original recipe in the book – sold at Target)

4 green bell peppers (I tried a yellow one too)
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup shredded mexican cheese blend
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup frozen corn (white and yellow blend)
1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 pinch of brown sugar
1/4 cup Cholula hot sauce
1 (4 oz) can of chopped green chilis
1/4 cup green salsa
topped with Frank’s hot sauce

Directions: cut tops off of the bell peppers, remove the seeds and membrane, leave the pepper whole. Combine the rest of the ingredients in a bowl and mix. Pour the mixture into each pepper. Place the peppers in the crock pot. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Serve with Frank’s hot sauce or sour cream.

I think next time I might chop up an anaheim pepper and add it into the mix. Mmm…spicy.

Enjoy.

A random drawing, A random song, and A random blog

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The weekend before last I ventured up to the cooler parts of the US for a friend’s wedding in Chicago. The drive up was approximately 10 hours. So you could say, I had A LOT of time to think, listen to music and generally try and entertain myself (and stay alert to drive, of course). I decided to make a photo record of my drive which ended up consisting of anything I could deem remotely exciting: a truck full of oranges, the largest truck stop in the world (in Iowa in case you wanted to check it out) and some storm clouds. I also enjoyed listening to Pope Benedict’s most recent encyclical, “Caritas in Veritate” which I highly recommend. Although if you are anything like me, you might want to read it rather than listen to the audio since I had to repeat many of the chapters in order to retain some of it. BUT, the most enjoyable part of the drive was the discovery of a song that, having listened to some theology and then having time to contemplate life in general, put everything into perspective. So, check out this song on iTunes: “This is the Day (Psalm 118)” by Shane Barnard. Great guitar, great harmony, and serves as a great reminder that God deserves all glory and honor and praise.

Oh, and the drawing is of floating monsters…feel free to make your own interpretations.

Enjoy.

Comfy Pants Man

A new hero prowls the night….

Uncomfortable and unsightly pants beware! There is a new hero on the streets ready to take all the disgraceful “so-called” lower-section-cover-ups back to their makers (or sewers, respectively). Little do the dress pants, too tight jeans, and bunchy shorts of this world know that a hero has come to do away with their evil and uncomfortable ways! All of you out there who find yourselves in the plight of tight waistlines and itchy material have no fear, Comfy Pants Man is here to save the day!

A historical event to remember…

Comfy Pants Man was born on the outskirts of a sewing factory where by the slip of a needle (and some chemical reactions) was transformed into a super human capable of instant comforts. Quickly, he grew into a man that was known to appreciate the coziness of athletic shorts and pajama pants in all situations. As any hero, his many adventures set him on a course of battling evil and bringing “comfy pants” comfort to all those in dire need. His secret identity is, of course, unknown. Nevertheless, Comfy Pants Man has been known to show up in an instant bearing comfy pants and help to all those in peril.

Powers and Weapons…

– Instant comfy pants transformation
– Superhuman ability to consume large amounts of Gatorade with ease
– Armed with a powerful arsenal of  weapons that are disguised as harmless musical instruments.