Bragg Organic Sprinkle

I needed a quick meal but didn't feel like making a marinade for the chicken wings I planned to bake. I remembered I had a sample packet of Bragg Organic Sprinkle Salt-free Seasoning and decided to give it a try. I was surprised how much flavor it had, considering it's salt-free, but it was delicious. I think I'll buy a bottle the next time I'm at the grocery store. If you're on a low-sodium diet, you'll definitely want this in your cupboard.

Happy Good Friday and Happy Easter!

I haven't been shopping much lately because I've been busy finalizing the details for my cookbook. After months of researching and asking around, I found a publisher I hope I'll enjoy working with. I love to cook and write, so hopefully, this book will reflect that. It should be out in a few months, or less. I'll enjoy Easter Sunday this weekend with my family. I hope all of you will, too. Take care!

New spring scent at Bath & Body Works

Bath & Body Works has another new scent, Into the Wild, that's perfect for spring. It's a light, fresh scent that's easy to wear. Get your free 2 oz lotion with a coupon (a facebook exclusive). They're currently a dollar each in-store.

Love the scented candles at Bath & Body Works

I love candles and burn them year-round to scent my home. If you haven't been to Bath & Body Works lately, you should stop by and smell the variety of scented candles. I liked so many of them, it was hard to decide. But, I purchased two for $20, Juicy Nectarine and Pink Lemonade. Um, do they smell good!

MAC Viva Glam Gaga 2 is a must have!

I love MAC makeup and purchase products throughout the year. My most recent purchase, Viva Glam Gaga 2, is a "must-have" for anyone looking for a pretty nude color lipstick or gloss. It's a beautiful nude color that compliments many skin tones. I loved the lipstick and gloss immediately once I tried it on. At $14.50 each, it's a great buy, too. Go to your nearest MAC Store, or the MAC counter at Nordstrom or Macy's, to see for yourself.

Zesty Italian Sausage Pasta

I love pasta and the variety of ways you can prepare it. Some recipes are better than others, and this one fell short of my expectations. It's a colorful, healthy pasta dish but lacked flavor.

Zesty Italian Sausage Pasta

1 pkg (19.76 oz.) Italian Mild Sausage Links
1 pkg. (16 oz.) of linguine
3 tbsp. olive oil
1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 can (14.5) diced Italian tomatoes
1 can (10.5 oz.) chicken broth
2 cups broccoli florets

Prepare sausage according to directions. Cool slightly; cut into 1/4-in. slices.
Prepare pasta according to package directions.

In a large saucepan, saute the onion and garlic in olive oil until tender. Stir in tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer. Add the broccoli and cooked pasta. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 5 mintues. Add sausage; toss to combine. 5 servings.

Note: I used fresh chicken stock and added 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

Pinto Beans Surprise!

I love hot foods when it's cold or raining outside. This morning, I decided to cook some Pinto beans with ground turkey and vegetables. I got the idea from a recipe I saw on a can of "zesty chili style" diced tomatoes. It sounded good, so I wanted to make it with a few changes and addition's. I used fresh, cooked Pinto beans instead of canned kidney beans and added extra seasonings to the beans while they were cooking. Fresh is always better than canned, and with this recipe, I couldn't agree more. The result was a pot of flavorful beans out of this world, a "Pinto Beans Surprise." You'll definitely want to try this recipe! It's quick, easy, and doesn't require many ingredients.


Pinto Beans Surprise

1 lb. ground beef or ground turkey
(1) (15 oz.) can of Pinto, or Kidney beans, drained
Or
(1) 16 oz. bag of Pinto beans,
soaked for 6 to 8 hours or overnight
1/2 cup onions
1 clove garlic
1 bay leaf
salt & pepper to taste
1/4 tsp Paprika
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp parsley

(1) can (14 1/2 oz.) diced tomatoes,
zesty chili style
(1) can (15 oz.) Whole Kernel Corn
(1) can (4 oz.) diced green chiles

Cover beans with water and cook about 1 and 1/2 hours on medium high heat with seasonings, onions and garlic (covered with lid). While the beans are cooking, brown meat in large sauce pan; drain.
Once the beans are cooked, stir in remaining ingredients and simmer, uncovered, 10 to 15 minutes. Top with sliced green onions, cilantro and shredded Cheddar cheese, if desired.

Note: This dish can also be served with white rice.