So I must be feeling somewhat better because I've been getting that itch to start cooking again and don't gag every time I do it...great! I made a couple new recipes tonight that turned out scrumptious. And they so happen to be vegetarian friendly so even your animal-loving friends can enjoy! :)
Minestrone SoupEasiness Rating: 7
Russ' Rating: 8 (His main complaint was that it had no meat...apparently this is a more of a girly dish?)
Jen's Rating: 9 (The only thing I would've changed is add a little more salt.)
1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, chopped or crushed
1 small onion, chopped small
2 stalks celery, sliced
2 carrots, sliced thin
2 15-oz cans of chicken broth
1 cup water
2 8-oz cans tomato sauce
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 8 oz can green beans
1 cup fresh baby spinach
2 small zucchini, halved and sliced
1 tsp dry oregano
2 tsp dry basil
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup dry seashell pasta
Parmesan cheese for topping
In a large pot, over medium heat, saute garlic in olive oil for 2-3 mins. Add onion and saute for 4-5 mins. Add celery and carrots, saute for 1-2 mins. Add chicken broth, water and tomato sauce. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low to simmer. Add green beans, spinach, zucchini and spices. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Add kidney beans and dry pasta and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Serve with parmesan cheese on top. I thought it was just as good as the Olive Garden's!
Soft Garlic BreadsticksEasiness Rating: 8
Russ's Rating: 10
Jen's Rating: 9.5
1 tsp active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1 Tbsp sugar
Combine and let stand for 10 minutes.
In a separate bowl, combine:
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 Tbsp grated parmesan
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dry basil
Combine both bowls. Then add 1 1/2 cups flour. Roll and knead on floured surface until correct consistency. Separate into 10 different balls. Roll out into breadstick shape and place on greased baking sheet. Cover and let stand for 40 minutes to let it rise. Then bake at 350 degrees for 18-22 minutes. Lightly butter when done. Great for dipping in Minestrone Soup!