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Recipes (Main)

Crispy Molasses Coleslaw

Jul 21, 2015 · Leave a Comment

We had an International German student living with us for almost a year. She had a few food allergies and one of them was carrots. So I got used to cooking without carrots. Although the allergy was mainly to raw carrots, I just stopped using them so as to not “forget”. With my coleslaw’s I always experiment. Sometimes I’d add apple or pear, other times it’s nuts or seeds. But the basics of my coleslaw are always the same; cabbage, onions, cilantro with a mayo/sour cream/vinegar dressing.

As I was making the dressing to go with our Beef on a Bun, I asked my father in laws girlfriend/partner what she thought about me adding molasses into my dressing. She wasn’t sure at first so I pulled a little out & mixed in some molasses. Let her try it to get her opinion and Bam she liked it. I know some people add sugar to their dressings, so the molasses could add the sweet factor. And since I’m more of a salty person to begin with I needed feedback and second opinions. It was well received that evening by everyone. And so the Crispy Molasses Coleslaw recipe was born.

This recipe feeds a crowd so if you are cooking for a smaller family you may want to half it. And yes I put cilantro in my slaw. You can always replace it with flat leaf parsley.

 

Crispy Molasses Coleslaw
Crispy Molasses Coleslaw

Dinner, Grilling, Quick Meals, Salads, Sides, Vegetarian apple cider vinegar, bbq, coleslaw, cumin, green onions, mayonnaise, molasses cider coleslaw, old bay, pepper, red cabbage, salt, scallions

Blueberry Turkey Burgers

Jul 19, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Carrying on with our blueberry theme for National Blueberry Month (July), I had planned to whip up some blueberry turkey burgers for dinner since I had lots of BC Blueberries in my fridge. It’s not a new to me idea as I’ve tried turkey/chicken sausage with blueberries before, and last year at the BC Blueberry Launch we made up some blueberry turkey sliders.

Since I had the Blueberry Bourbon BBQ Sauce ready to go, I tossed in about 1 tbsp of this sauce into my burger. We also topped the burgers with the sauce, some havarti cheese and prepared to chow down and a relatively healthy burger. It was the ideal dinner to have on the deck.

 

 

Blueberry Turkey Burgers
Blueberry Turkey Burgers

 

Burgers, Grilling, Kid Friendly, Turkey bbq, BBQ sauce, bc blueberries, blueberries, bourbon, scallions, turkey, turkey burgers

Blueberry Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Jul 18, 2015 · 3 Comments

Inspired by BC Blueberries, a bottle of bourbon I was recently given, a bottle of Guy Fieri Bourbon/Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce, and a Crosby Molasses contest, I decided to try and create a Blueberry BBQ Sauce. With molasses. I’ve never made a BBQ sauce with molasses before but I know it’s been done. The bourbon was honestly an afterthought but it works. In fact I have received 4 thumbs up from the in-laws on this BBQ Sauce. Yahoo!

If you don’t like bourbon, leave the bourbon out. The first night we had it we slathered it on a pork tenderloin. Next we mixed it into turkey burgers (with blueberries) and used it as a sauce for the top.

 

Blueberry BBQ Sauce
Blueberry BBQ Sauce

 

 

Condiments, Sauces, Dips, Grilling bbq, BBQ sauce, bc blueberries, blueberry, bourbon, crosby molasses, grill, molasses

Blueberry Guacamole

Jul 13, 2015 · 6 Comments

Blueberry Guacamole

We’ve taken a classic guacamole dish and put a spin on it by adding blueberries. Once you’ve tasted Blueberry Guacamole you will want it all the time!

blueberry gaucamole

Blueberry Guacamole

Blueberry season sweeps in like a fire ball and we jump on the wagon so we can eat as many as possible before the season ends! During the winter months the blueberries that are shipped in from other countries taste terrible. Perhaps it’s too long on the boat, plane or train, not really sure but nothing compares to B.C. blueberries!

So we take the opportunity to eat as many blueberries as we can once the season arrives. Fresh is best for this recipe.

The Chip Counts

A variation of tortilla chips are the best chip to enjoy with any kind of guacamole. It needs to be sturdy enough to tuck into the guacamole without breaking.

Going beyond chips you could dip veggies like carrots, celery, cauliflower, broccoli, even bell peppers. Or go off the rails completely and dip bread sticks, pretzels, rice cakes, crackers – even pita chips.

blueberry gaucamole

B.C. Blueberries

Every July we eagerly await the appearance of BC Blueberries in the stores and markets. Alongside cherries, stone fruits, berries and more.

Growing up in BC, my mom used to grow all kinds of berries and vegetables plus had several fruit trees in our yard. Enjoying fresh produce like this every summer was sure a great way to grow up.

Recipe Inspiration

I’ve always said it comes from everywhere. Eating blueberries while eating guacamole is how this dip was born. Kids have also given it two thumbs up. I might try fresh cherries next.

blueberry gaucamole

Looking for other fun summer appetizers? Check these out!

  • Mushroom Toast
  • Grilled Skewered Olives
  • Mini Salad in Toast Cups
  • Mini Cheese Balls
  • Blue Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
  • Toasted Sesame Cream Cheese Spread

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans or #wandabaker

Blueberries and avocado are a match made in heaven making this combination one you will make again and again.

 

Appetizers, Camping, Food For One, Game Day, Gluten Free, Kid Friendly avocados, blueberries, blueberry, blueberry guacamole, blueberry recipes, guacamole, healthy, healthy snacks, how do you make guacamole, what to make with blueberries

Campfire Baked Brie

Jul 10, 2015 · 1 Comment

This campfire baked brie is simply delicious. I’m not your average camper where food is concerned. Yes I love smokies, hot dogs, marshmallows, tin foil suppers, and the like. But I like to experiment. Push the limits and see what I can create. Anyone who camps with me knows there will be some tasty bites to try at least once during our trip. Some times the recipes fail, like this past camping trip….I tried a recipe and it burned to a crisp! Win some lose some. One failure, 3 successes. Pretty good odds in my book!

Pick up the largest brie you can find…trust me it goes fast. Bring along your favourite toppers (olives-tapenade , berry compote, sundried tomatoes, fresh fruit, pulled pork, nuts, etc.). Score the top of the brie, add your toppers, wrap in foil and grill carefully for about 10 minutes, turning once. While cooking grill up some sliced baguette or french bread. Winner Winner this could be your dinner. Dinner for one. Or to share. Either way it’s delicious.

 

Campfire Baked Brie
Campfire Baked Brie

Appetizers, Camping, Dinner, Food For One, Grilling, Kid Friendly, Lunch baked brie, brie, campfire, campfire baked brie, campfire cooking, camping, camping cooking

Date Energy Bites

Jun 23, 2015 · 3 Comments

date energy bites

A great bite to take on the road, add to lunches or keep in your desk for snack attacks are these Date Energy Bites!

date energy bites

Date Energy Bites

Healthy never tasted so good. Expect a lightly sweet bite with a hint of cinnamon and chocolate in these no-bake snacks. Medjool dates are popular for their soft texture and caramel-like flavour, but any variety will work.

These easy-to-make snacks come together quickly. Simply mix the ingredients, roll and enjoy.

date energy bites

The Perfect Road Trip Snack

These snacks help satisfy a sweet craving while traveling.

For road trips, pack a small cooler with options like cheese, yogurt, cut vegetables, nuts and fruit. Having snacks prepared in advance makes it easier to avoid last-minute stops and keeps everyone fueled on the road.

date energy bites

Healthy Snacks for all Occasions

Some other ways we enjoy these snacks:

  • After a workout.
  • In our desk at work for snack attacks.
  • A quick breakfast with an apple or banana.
  • In the kids lunches or after school snacks.
  • Kids and sports tournaments snacks.
  • Tailgate parties. A healthy snack option is always appreciated.
  • Family style brunch table.
  • Hiking through the Rocky Mountains.

date energey bites

Other great snack ideas to make:

  • No Bake Elderberry Syrup Power Balls
  • Banana Orange Honey Muffins
  • Coconut Banana Bread
  • Sammy’s On A Stick
  • Sticky No-Bake Cereal Bars

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans or #wandabaker

Soft, naturally sweet and easy to make, these no-bake energy bites come together with dates, oats and a handful of pantry staples. They hold well in the fridge and make a practical grab-and-go option for mornings or mid-day snacks.  

 

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Grilled Citrus Chicken

Jun 10, 2015 · 1 Comment

My kid watches me in the kitchen and has been doing so since she was little. She’s 9, almost 10 going on 14. She’s a true Leo as she was so stubborn during her birth, that after 64 hours of labour, she ended up being escorted out of my belly via emergency C-section. She brings this stubbornness into the kitchen when she bakes. Always wanting to race ahead, and do things her way without reading instructions properly or sitting back to listen & learn. I do love this about her, but it can be challenging.

A couple weeks ago I gave my kids a chicken challenge. Cook any kind of (simple) chicken dish you wanted for supper. Think about it, go through recipe books, or make up a recipe. Hailey’s first idea was to make up a watermelon marinade for the chicken. Since we don’t care for grilled watermelon, and watermelon logged chicken didn’t seem to appeal, I talked her out of it (maybe a mistake?). I could have googled ideas, but I wanted this to be hers. So I suggested she think up something different. She decided on this citrus chicken. Created it entirely on her own. I directed her to the fresh herbs, she smelled & tasted and decided which she wanted to add to the marinade. She loves grilled halloom cheese (from Superstore) and knew she wanted grilled this cheese as part of her meal (she calls it the squeaky cheese), with the grilled chicken placed on top. And her favourite Tabbouleh Salad. I helped with suggesting grilled lemon or lime on top. Her dad did all the grilling.

For the first time we worked together in the kitchen (I helped with the chopping) without any battles. It was flawless and so much fun to watch her follow her vision. And she did an amazing job. While it may not happen again anytime soon, this mom is super proud.

To assemble plate place a little salad on bottom of plate in a circle. Add a slice of grilled halloom cheese. Top with a piece of grilled chicken and if using, grilled lemons or limes.

 

Grilled Citrus Chicken
Grilled Citrus Chicken

 

 

Planning dinner & making a list
Planning dinner & making a list

 

Camping, Chicken, Gluten Free, Grilling blogger, boneless chicken thighs, cheese, chicken thighs, citrus chicken, grilled chicken, grilled chicken thighs. mint, grilled lemon, grilled lime, halloom cheese, kids cooking kids can cook, lemon, lime, orange, oregano, tabbouleh salad

Teriyaki Pork Burgers

Jun 1, 2015 · 2 Comments

teriyaki pork burgers

These Teriyaki Pork Burgers are bursting with sweet, tangy and umami flavours from the teriyaki sauce, saucy pineapple and aromatic cheese! Complete the burger with a bun, mayonnaise and lettuce for a delicious lunch or dinner!

teriyaki pork burger

Teriyaki Pork Burgers

Several years ago we started featuring different burger combinations and blogging about it. Teriyaki beef is a favourite here so teriyaki pork seemed like a natural progression. The end result after recipe testing a few times was a juicy, moist, luscious burger full of flavour.

If you don’t eat pork you can substitute chicken or beef in this recipe.

teriyaki pork burger

Building the perfect burger

There are many purists out there. Those who feel a burger shouldn’t have any additional ingredients mixed in, just grilled with salt and pepper. While I agree a plain burger can be tasty as long as you amp up the toppings, I do know for a fact a burger with extra ingredients mixed into the meat is better than tasty, it’s absolutely delicious!

So I say you do you and I’m going to keep making burgers with unique flavour combinations.

If you aren’t able to make your own homemade teriyaki sauce, and honestly who has time for that, check out the recommendations from the Serious Eats Taste Test: Bottled Teriyaki Sauce.

teriyaki pork burgers

Burger Toppings

Burgers need toppings and some go better with others. We all have our favourites, however learning what really works is the key to a delicious tasting burger.

Pineapple: Grill it or saute it with butter and brown sugar as we like to do. It adds a sweet element that pairs nicely with teriyaki flavours. For this recipe you can use fresh or canned, both are excellent choices.

Lettuce: Of course any lettuce will do. A classic, common lettuce is iceberg lettuce and we love it for the crunch. In this recipe we use butter or bibb lettuce.

Onions: More often then not I add Spanish onion slices to my burgers. I love that little extra bite and sometimes I will even grill the onion rings for extra flavour. In this recipe we add chopped scallions to the burger itself so additional onions on top are not required.

Cheese: We prefer a good melting white cheese. Gouda is tasty, harvarti or pepper harvarti goes well with teriyaki flavours or a simple tasting provolone is fantastic.

Additional toppings: This comes down to personal preference. Avocado is tasty as is grilled jalapeno peppers. We like to pair pineapple salsa with pork and the one in this Grilled Pork Chops recipe is delicious on this burger. We try to keep the flavours simple due to the teriyaki sauce.

teriyaki pork burger

PRO TIPS:

  • Ensure you use pork that has a good fat to meat ratio. Fat equals flavour and going lean will cause the burger to become dry.
  • Brush extra teriyaki sauce on top of the burgers just before adding your cheese. Allow to glaze over the burgers.
  • The Canadian Government Food Safety Guide recommends cooking ground pork to an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F).
  • Invest in a good meat thermometer to check the temperature of your burgers.
  • Use your favourite teriyaki sauce or make your own.
  • Swap out pork for beef, chicken, even turkey.

Salads to serve with these Teriyaki Pork Burgers

While we all love french fries with our burgers, there are other sides that compliment a good burger. Here are some of our favourite side salads.

  • Greek Wedge Salad
  • Greek Pasta Salad
  • Asian Noodle Salad with Spicy Nuts
  • Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
  • Lemony Coleslaw

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans

 

Burgers, Camping, Dinner, Game Day, Grilling, Kid Friendly, Lunch, Pork, Simple bbq, bbq burgers, burgers, grilling, how to make a pork burger, pork, teriyaki, teriyaki burgers, teriyaki pork burgers, what to do with teriyaki sauce

Ginger Peach Smoothie

May 27, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Trying to get some frozen berries used up from the freezer so I can buy some more. Realizing tummy growls meant I hadn’t eaten breakfast yet. 10am & I started tossing items into my blender to make a smoothie.

I’m a big believer in raw ginger in various forms. 20 years ago I worked in a high rise in downtown Vancouver. The penthouse housed actors & I even rode down the elevator once with David Duchovny. No bigs really. I’m never awed by celebrities, maybe cause I’ve met so many, but it was still cool to share elevator space with him even though I never gave him a second glance. At the bottom of the highrise was a little convenience store. I got to know the lady who owns/runs the store quite well. Late 50’s, looked amazing and one day she told me she hasn’t been sick in over 30 years! I asked how and she said “I cut up fresh ginger/garlic and eat it every single day”. Have been for 30 years. Inspired by this I started cutting up raw ginger & garlic and eating it. Now to be honest I don’t do it every day but it’s been a habit I can’t break for 20 years. It’s easy enough to cut up and store in the fridge for hubs & I. I even try to get my kids to eat it like this when they are not feeling well. We do 1 tsp every day – mornings/bedtimes, push it to the back of your mouth (don’t chew) and swallow. No bad breath either! I’m so in love with ginger I even grate it into my green tea.

Why not put some in my smoothie, I said. Delicious and only a hint of ginger taste. There is enough smoothie here for two, but I didn’t share today. If you do not have or can not find frozen smoothies, any frozen fruit will do. Here’s how I did it.

 

Gluten Free, Kid Friendly, Lunch, Quick Meals, Simple, Snacks, Vegetarian avocado, banana, berries, coconut milk, frozen berries, ginger, healthy, healthy eating, peach, pineapple juice, smoothie, smoothies, spinach

Asian Pulled Chicken

May 26, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Asian Puled Chicken
Asian Puled Chicken

Summer is coming, grilling has ramped up, camping is around the corner and I’m all about the grill this year. And pulled meat. With Canadian Beef prices here in Canada skyrocketing, there won’t be much beef in our house this year. It’s a sad state of affairs when you can actually buy lobster cheaper than Alberta beef. Here’s hoping things change and we get back to some better prices.

In light of watching our beef intake, we came up with this Asian Pulled Chicken recipe cooked in our slow cooker. I’ve played with these flavours many times before and decided with a broken stove I needed to get creative with dinners. So I pulled out the slow cooker, added all my favourite ingredients and success! Asian Pulled Chicken was born.

Since my chicken breasts were boneless it’s important to note they will cook quickly. I gave them 1.5 – 2 hours tops in the slow cooker before I pulled them out avoiding dry chicken. Wrapped them in foil and set them aside until ready. Boneless chicken breasts will take a little longer and hold the moisture. I pulled the chicken apart with my fingers and put the leftover liquid into a saucepan to reduce and intensify flavours.

I topped this chicken with some sliced green onions and served with buns. Feel free to add a slaw or dressed green salad as a topper.

 

Chicken, Dinner, Method, Slow Cooker asian, asian pulled chicken, crockpot, pulled chicken, sammys, sandwiches, slowcooker

Butternut Squash Soup with Tamarind

May 13, 2015 · Leave a Comment

It was clean out my pantry day and I have had a butternut squash rolling around on the floor for about 2 months. My mom used to roast butternut squash and serve it simple with shaved parmesan, salt & cracked pepper. Oh and a maybe just a lil butter drizzle on top.

While roasting this bad boy, I started sorting through two shelves of canned items. Way at the back of one shelf I found a jar of Tamarind Chutney. I love tamarind and practically inhale it whenever we go for Indian food. Only thing is this jar had well expired. You know what, this did not deter me. I opened the jar and sampled. About three tablespoons of samples later I decided it was safe to eat. And a little spicy however on the taste buds.

To make this soup is easy. Rough chop your onion, carrots and garlic as it’s all going to get pureed anyways. Toss them in with some olive oil and cook until just lightly softened. You could add chopped uncooked squash in with the onions and carrots if you don’t feel like roasting your squash first. The roasting however did impart a great flavour.

Important to note while the tamarind chutney is spicy, well when you eat it right out of the jar, it is not overpowering in the soup but yet adds a subtle hint of heat and incredible depth of flavour. We have a 16 yr old German Student living with us right now who does not like spicy food. She gave me two thumbs up on and loved the soup indicating it was not very spicy at all. We added in some more tamarind chutney right into our soup bowls. Seriously could inhale that stuff and it’s my new favourite condiment. Watch for it in everything (ha ha just kidding).

A simple soup for busy nights or cold days.

How often do you clean out your pantry?

 

 

Dinner, Food For One, Lunch, Soups, Vegetarian butternut squash, butternut squash soup, carrots, chutney, cilantro, coconut milk, garlic, onion, Soup, spicy, stock, tamarind, tamarind chutney, vegetarian, vegetarian soup

Brussels Sprouts Brown Rice Bowl with Cilantro Lime Drizzle

May 4, 2015 · 2 Comments

I love bowl food. It’s hearty, filling and mostly healthy depending on ingredients. When I make it at home, it’s always healthy. When I have it out it’s full of inspiration and for the most part a bowl full of good stuff.

I’ve had a love affair with brown rice going on for over 20 years thanks to my mom and since it’s part of the rotation, my husband even likes it. We top it with salty feta cheese & fresh herbs. If brown rice is not your thing try making this bowl with white rice or even quinoa.

I finished it with a Cilantro Lime Drizzle but you can use your favourite dressing if cilantro is not your thing or use a different herb like basil or parsley. If you are on the Wild Rose Detox you have to keep your dressing simple (olive oil, citrus, herbs, s&p). I called this a drizzle as it doesn’t contain vinegar and technically a vinaigrette does.

As always recipes can be changed up to suit your tastes. Add chicken or protein if you want some meat, omit the jalapenos if you don’t like the extra heat!

 

Dinner, Gluten Free, Vegetarian, Wild Rose Herbal D-Tox bocconcini balls, brown rice, brown rice bowl, brussels sprouts, cilantro, cilantro lime drizzle, gluten free, jalapeno, lentils, lime juice, onions, peppers, radishes, soul food, tomatoes, vegetarian

Pork Belly & Brussels Sprouts Spaghetti (Gluten Free)

Apr 28, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Following a recent and fun evening cooking with Chef Lynn Crawford and Catelli Pasta, I was asked to participate in a Catelli Gluten Free Pastabilities Challenge. I love challenges and especially challenging myself. In celebration of Celiac Awareness Month in May, Catelli asked bloggers to develop an original gluten free pasta recipe using one of four Catelli Gluten Free Pastas – penne, fusilli, macaroni or spaghetti. Did you know Catelli Gluten free pasta won a 2015 Best New Product Award as voted by consumers?!

I’m always looking to incorporate new items and foods into my family’s diet giving us a broader range of items to choose from. Having made several gluten free meals in the past, I was very excited to create something new & flavourful everyone would love. I started brain storming ideas for pasta creations knowing every item I used had to be gluten free. I scribbled out ideas like pulled pork, korean meatballs and ramen pasta. After researching the ingredients (I was leaning towards a ramen pasta) I stalled on pork belly. Pork Belly…what a delicious ingredient to use in a pasta dish. So I built my pasta dish around pork belly.

The next two ingredients were easy. I’ve been on a brussels sprouts kick since last Fall and wanting to make a brussels sprouts pasta. As well as in love with crispy lentils..I put them on many of my dishes. So I decided on a Pork Belly, Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Lentil Gluten Free Spaghetti. Crisp your lentils in advance and keep them in the fridge until ready to use.

I’ve tested this recipe three times and each time it’s come out tasty and the family has enjoyed it. What I did learn about cooking gluten free pasta is it’s best removed from the boiling water at about 5-6 minutes allowing it to soak up some of the pasta sauce and not get to gummy. Third times a charm!

Here is some great information about Catelli Gluten Free Pasta.

  • Made from a unique four-grain blend of white rice, brown rice, corn and quinoa.
  • Available in Spaghetti, Fusilli, Penne and Macaroni (photo attached).
  • Delicious taste, smooth texture.
  • Voted the Best New Gluten Free Pasta by Consumers.*
  • Rated extremely high** by consumers in blind taste tests for taste, texture, colour and appearance.
  • Produced in a dedicated gluten free facility.
  • Certified by the Canadian Celiac Association’s Gluten-Free Certification Program.
  • Made with ingredients that are declared GMO free: white rice flour, brown rice flour, corn flour, quinoa flour, monoglycerides (from vegetable/palm oil).
  • 310 calories, 2 grams of fat per serving (85 g) of pasta.
  • Low in sodium (0 mg), source of fibre (3 g) per serving (85 g) of pasta.
  • Cholesterol and preservative free.
  • Easy to digest, with the great taste and texture of regular pasta.
  • Available at all major retailers across Canada, in the pasta aisle.

Catelli Gluten Free Pasta Product Shot

 

Pork Belly & Brussels Sprouts with Gluten Free Pasta
Pork Belly & Brussels Sprouts with Catelli Gluten Free Pasta

Dinner, Gluten Free, Pasta, Pork, Sponsored brussels sprouts, Catelli, crispy lentils, fish sauce, gluten free, gluten free pasta, green lentils, lentils, pasta, pork belly

Road Trippin: 10 Day Trips from Calgary

Apr 17, 2015 · Leave a Comment

When you think of Alberta, what comes to mind? West Edmonton Mall, prairies, beef, cowboys….the Calgary Stampede? You might be surprised to know Alberta has dinosaur fossils, quick sand, glaciers, and some of the most beautiful scenery East of the Rocky Mountains.

Albertans love to travel and stay-cations are right up there with the best of them. With the mountains on our West and badlands to the East, day trips are as common to us as peanut butter and jam.

We are starting a new series of posts called Alberta Bound covering all the things we enjoy in Alberta. There are lots of amazing day trips you can take here in Wild Rose Country so follow along as we keep adding to this series. In no particular order we list a few of our favourite 10 Day Trips from Calgary.

With any of these trips we recommend you pack an emergency medical kit, road trip snacks, extra water, a fully charged camera + batteries, good walking or hiking shoes, bug spray and sun tan lotion. Also a hat and bear spray depending on your adventure. All estimated travel time is from Calgary.

1) Breathe in Lake Louise

Lake Louise is nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and a favourite tourist destination. Keep this in mind when arriving near the lake itself and trying to find parking during busy times. You may end up with a longer walk than anticipated to the lake itself due to all the traffic. Once you arrive at the lake itself, all else is forgotten as the lake view is breathtaking.

Once you’ve inhaled as much of the beauty of the lake itself, there is more to do. Find one of the many trails and go on a hike. The Lake Agnes & the Tea House or Plain of Six Glaciers & Tea House are two popular hikes to discover. Seek out the Gondola and try to spot a Grizzly Bear down below (this happened to me once). If you love the water rent a canoe and explore the lake first hand.

Driving from Calgary, this trip will take you approximately 2 hours to Lake Louise. Allow 4 hours round trip.

Lake Louise
Lake Louise

2) Hoodoos and Horseshoe Canyon: Where the Prairies meet the Badlands

Plan your trip to Drumheller down Hwy 9 so you can stop and experience Horseshoe Canyon. As you pull into the parking lot you have no idea what awaits you down yonder. Walk to the canyon and an enormous opening awaits. An opening that began over 70 million years ago and is the beginning of what we know as the Badlands. Horseshoe Canyon represents three unique habitats or ecosystems: the prairie, the wooded coulee slopes and the badlands. There are trails taking you into the canyon for those more adventurous types.

Horseshoe Canyon & the World's Largest Dinosaur
Horseshoe Canyon & the World’s Largest Dinosaur

Get back on the road and roar your way into Drumheller. Ensure to be on the lookout for the dinosaurs you will encounter along the way. When you arrive be on the lookout for the World’s Largest Dinosaur, an 82ft replica of a Tyrannosaurus Rex. For a small fee you can climb the dinosaur and peek out of his mouth at the view.

While in town you can check out the Fossil World Discovery Center for a small fee, and mine for minerals or dig up some fossils.

Carry on down the Dinosaur Trail and discover the Star Mine Suspension Bridge. You have to wind your way through a residential neighbourhood to find this gem. The bridge crosses the Red Deer river and was built in 1931 for the coal workers of the Star Mine. There are trails on the other side of the river and the kids even found a few tiny pieces of coal much to their delight. Beautiful views however if you have a fear of heights, do not look down when crossing the bridge.

Star Mine Suspension Bridge
Star Mine Suspension Bridge

Drive for a few extra minutes and you will encounter your first real hoodoos. Some of them are blocked off and out of bounds for preservation purposes. Others can be explored. I had to stop for a minute and think about how long these magnificent statues have been in these exact spots. If only they could talk.

From Calgary this drive will take you about 1.5 hours one way.

Drumheller Hoodoos
Drumheller Hoodoos

3) Go back in time at the Royal Tyrrell Museum

The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology is one of the world’s premiere palaeontological research facilities and Canada’s only museum dedicated exclusively to palaeontology. They offer public programs including dino digs (our kids had a blast) and tours for all ages. Reserve your spot in advance as the museum is always busy and programs fill up quickly. Hop outside and scurry over to the lookout point (after climbing a zillion stairs) or scoot over to the Badlands Trail for a short hike.

The museum and area could be its own day trip as you need to allow time to browse through this museum. They have a cafe so you could grab a coffee or lunch while you are there and sit outside on the patio although eating in Drumheller might be a little easier on the wallet. A gift store finds you at the end of your museum tour and tantalizes with all kinds of gems and souvenirs.

Your looking at an 1.5 hours driving to Drumheller and the museum from Calgary.

Royal Tyrrell Museum
Royal Tyrrell Museum

4) Frank Slide Interpretive Centre

Drive along Hwy 3 into the Crowsnest Pass and you will discover the site of Canada’s deadliest rock slide in southwestern Alberta.

The Frank Slide was a rock slide that buried part of the mining town of Frank, in 1903. The town, Canadian Pacific Railway and coal mine were demolished and this slide is known as the deadliest slide in Canadian history. Approximately 90 lives were lost and bodies never recovered.

It’s a beautiful drive and there are many places to pull over for a picnic style lunch.

Driving is 2.3 hours Southwest from Calgary.

Frank Slide
Frank Slide

5) Discover Red Rock Canyon at Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park is a national park located in the southwest corner of Alberta, Canada, and borders Glacier National Park in Montana, USA. It’s known to many as where the prairies meet the mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an International peace park and a biosphere reserve all rolled into one.

There are many trails to discover in the area but you will want to see Red Rock Canyon. A short drive from the Waterton town site you will encounter bed rock layers with brilliant colours courting a glistening crystal clear stream. Hike along the canyon trail which leads to Blakiston Falls.

This day trip will take you almost 3 hours one way or 6 round trip from Calgary. Best to get an early start on your day and plan to return later in the evening.

Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon

6) Inspect the Aboriginal rock carvings and paintings at Writing on Stone

There will be no writing on stone at this UNESCO Heritage Site. An important and sacred spot to the Blackfoot Tribe and many other aboriginal tribes. This park contains the greatest concentration of rock art on the North American Great Plains including over 50 petroglyph sites and thousands of works.

A valley rich in history this is a trip worth the drive. They have a couple of hikes to enjoy, but when it’s a hot sunny day ensure you have the bug spray, lots of water and keep an eye out for snakes.

Driving this trip from Calgary is about 3.5 hours one way.

Writing on Stone Provincial Park
Writing on Stone Provincial Park

7) Make a Quick Sand Discovery and enjoy the views along Highway 93 Calgary – Jasper

Did you know Alberta has Quick Sand? It’s like one of Alberta’s best kept secrets that we discovered geocaching back in 2012. This day trip might be best as an over night in Jasper when you factor in stops as it’s a good four hours from Calgary unless you are an early bird and night owl. Bubbling Springs is a lovely pull over area where you will find picnic tables and a toilet next to a natural pool of quicksand. Mr DAPS frequently picnicked here in the early 1960s while surveying the reconstruction of the highway through this valley.

There are several stops on this scenic drive from Calgary to Jasper which stops once you pass Lake Louise. Must stops including Falls, Glaciers and Canyons, plus trails and campgrounds to discover. Be sure to explore The Columbia Icefield | Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre | Glacier Skywalk while on your way and be sure to stop at Athabasca Falls. If you are lucky you may encounter several mountain goats and sheep on the road way so careful on those blind corners!

We recently did this trip in November during the winter (and speed limit) and it took us just under four hours to get to Jasper via Highway 93.

Quick Sand Alberta | Athabasca Falls
Quick Sand Alberta | Athabasca Falls

8) Dig up bones at Dinosaur Provincial Park

We LOVE Dinosaur Provincial Park. There I said it. We’ve been a good handful of times and even witnessed the birth of a baby deer on one of our camping trips in this park. Besides the threat of scorpions, snakes and black widow spiders we keep coming back here. The Summer heat can be scorching during the days, but the evenings tend to cool off nicely. The park offers summer public programs including guided fossil tours in the out of bounds areas of the park where they take you to discover real dinosaur bones that are slowly being unearthed by the weather. These tours sell out and it’s best advised you book several weeks in advance if possible.

This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and situated in the valley of the Red Deer River. The park is simply stunning. They offer a Visitor Centre featuring exhibits about dinosaurs, fossils, and the geology and natural history of the park. There is a video theater, fossil prep lab area, and a gift shop.

Being so close to the river the ‘squitos can be pretty annoying at times. Be sure to have bug spray.

Distance wise you are looking at 2-2.5 hours from Calgary.

Dinosaur Provincial Park
Dinosaur Provincial Park

9) Beautiful Banff

One of the things we enjoy about living in Calgary is the closeness to the mountains. In only a short hour & a half drive, we are in Banff. This town is tucked into the Rocky Mountains and a little more touristy, but there is much to see and do in Banff if you’d rather avoid the touristy side of things.

Hi-lights include Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Bow Falls, the Museums, Banff Hoodoos, Banff Hot Springs, hiking trails all over, the Fairmont Banff Springs and so much more. If you are lucky you will catch a glimpse of wildlife along the path. Grizzlies, elk and we’ve seen many deer on our travels. Banff offers up some delicious local food and there are several restaurants, cafes and food destinations (ie: Beaver Tails) to partake in.

Distance is 1.5 hours driving from Calgary.

Banff | Bow Falls | Hoodoos
Banff | Bow Falls | Hoodoos

10) Fall in love with Canmore

For us Canmore is a hop, skip and a jump away. It’s the place we sneak off to more often then not to experience the fresh mountain air, get back into nature and let all our cares float away. In Northern BC we have a mountain range called the 7 sisters. In Canmore they have the 3 sisters. How ironic and magical at the same time.

Like so many of my other picks, Canmore offers up great hiking, and camping nearby (when the rain hits we tend to drop into Canmore for a hot lunch and stroll). Be sure to check out the Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre and some of the several amazing restaurants that are there.

This will take about 1 hour to get to.

Policeman's Creek Boardwalk
Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk

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Southwestern Bean Dip

Apr 17, 2015 · 2 Comments

I joined a Blog Hop! Well I joined yes but I’ve fallen behind and kind of missed the deadline to submit my post. Mostly due to family health issues, 15 hour driving trips (each way) to visit sick relatives and then returning home to get ready for Easter and finish organizing a City Wide Foodie Treasure Hunt that I had been chatting about putting on in Calgary for almost two years. For the blog hop, I was matched up with blogger Michelle of A Dish Of Daily Life.

In getting to know Michelle through this process I learned we have a lot in common. Besides the fact she lives far away (in Connecticut), has kids, pets and a husband, she’s a runner and also manages social media as do I. I’ve gotten into running a few times and always wanted to be a runner, so hopefully I will find some inspiration as I follow her blog and her adventures to get motivated to start running again. She’s also big into cooking Mexican & Lebanese food, both of which I love, so I will also be on the look out for recipes to try in these areas.

Each blogger in the Blog Hop was asked to pick a recipe from their partner Blogger and make it, photograph it and post it. For weeks I’ve known I was going to make this delicious sounding Southwestern Bean Dip. It’s healthy, gluten free and the perfect snack. Plus I want to get my family eating more beans. So I finally got to it this week. The one ingredient I couldn’t find easily was the Ro*Tel tomatoes. So I googled what they were and made up my own batch. The end result, fantastic. This is a dip perfect for entertaining and for those Hockey Night In Canada Game Nights that are now upon us thanks to our Calgary Flames making the playoffs – woot woot!

I modified Michelle’s version slightly as I wanted to make less and used what I had available in my pantry. Here is my slightly modified version of Michelle’s Southwestern Bean Dip.

 

 

 

Appetizers, Food For One, Game Day, Gluten Free, Snacks bean dip, beans, dips, game night, gluten free, healthy, southwestern

Canmore Uncorked

Apr 12, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Last week I attended the Canmore Business & Tourism Canmore Uncorked Media Launch here in Calgary at The Cookbook Co. Cooks store. This is the second year of an event that appears to have become a very popular and an anticipated food & drink festival that begins on April 7, 2015. This 13 day long festival includes special set-priced menus from 25 restaurants, incredible culinary events, cooking courses, and a long table dinner.

Canmore is roughly an hour’s drive from downtown Calgary and a favourite mountain destination we frequent as a family. There’s all kinds of fun events to attend in both winter and summertime plus several easy to challenging hikes into the mountains. Last year my husband and I attended Canmore Uncorked and mores specifically a Wine Tasting. Since we do not have family support here in Calgary it’s very hard for us to get away without the kids. But somehow we managed one night (the first time ever since having minions) and took in the Wine Tasting evening.

Media Event for Canmore Uncorked Goodie Bag
Media Event for Canmore Uncorked Goodie Bag

The media launch showcased two participating restaurants out of several. Murrieta’s and Sage Bistro are both located in Canmore. They served up three delicious bites starting with a PB & J Pork Belly from Murrieta’s. The peanut butter and jam (and an apple slaw) was a surprising, but delicious pairing with the pork belly. Our second bite was from Sage Bistro and simply a Squash and Pine Nut Risotto Ball. It packed a whack of flavour and is a definite must try. Our final bite was a collaboration between Sage Bistro & Murrietas Canmore. A light and flavourful Profiterole filled with a Chambord and Foie Gras Mousse. This was an amazing combination and definitely as good as it sounds.

The media launch showcased two restaurants from Canmore and three delicious bites. First taste was a PB & J Pork Belly from Murrietas in Canmore. What a treat. Our second bite was from Sage Bistro and were Squash, Pine Nut Risotto Balls. Our last bite was a collaboration between Sage Bistro & Murrietas Canmore. And it was amazing. A light and flavourful Profiterole with a Chambord and Foie Gras Mousse collaboration between Murrietas Canmore & Sage Bistro for #CanmoreUncorked.
Profiterole with a Chambord and Foie Gras Mousse collaboration between Murrietas Canmore & Sage Bistro for #CanmoreUncorked

Canmore has so many great restaurants and this event is a fabulous way to try many of them. Canmore Uncorked has officially started and much to my surprise there are still a few events you can still pick up tickets for: The Culinary Symphony and The Big Brunch. Head out to Canmore and take in some of the events going on during this fabulous week of food and wine also known, Canmore Uncorked.

Canmore Uncorked Wine Tasting 2014

Canmore Uncorked Wine Tasting 2014

Adventures, events, Sponsored, tabletalk calgary blogger, calgary influencer, canmore, CanmoreUncorked, Food Festival, Media Launch, Tourism Canmore, travel blogger, yyc blogger, yyc influencer

Chilled Noodle Salad with Ginger Wasabi Dressing – Cooking with Catelli

Apr 1, 2015 · 2 Comments

Lynn Crawford Chilled Noodle with Ginger Wasabi Dressing

What’s old is new again – at least when it comes to eating grains. Catelli Foods Corporation shared this message with us at a recent event here in Calgary. Several bloggers & food writers were invited to attend a one on one cooking demo with Canadian Celebrity Chef Lynn Crawford and Catelli Foods. The evening started with us sampling some tasty snacks from the SAIT Culinary Campus and watching Chef Crawford whip up two pasta dishes. Each pasta dish was passed around for us to sample. The demo was fun, entertaining, and we quickly learned Chef Crawford has quite the sense of humour. While we ate, Chef Crawford moved into making a delicious Chilled Noodle Salad with Ginger Wasabi Dressing. Once she was finished her demo we all donned chef hats and aprons, and picked a cooking station to get started making our own delicious salad. The evening concluded with photos and swag bags.

Catelli® Healthy Harvest® Ancient Grains pasta blends 100 per cent Canadian whole wheat with five wholesome ancient grains: quinoa, teff, amaranth, millet and sorghum. Certified GMO-free (NON GMO Project Verified), Catelli® Healthy Harvest® Ancient Grains pasta is available in three cuts –  Spaghetti, Spaghettini and Rotini.

Chef Lynn Crawford
Chef Lynn Crawford

The health benefits of eating 100 per cent whole grain wheat have been touted for years, but what makes the other grains so healthy? Here’s the ancient secret:

Quinoa: Dating back to the 13th century South American Inca Empire, quinoa is high in fibre, protein and minerals – including magnesium, potassium, zinc and iron – and low on the glycemic index.

Amaranth: Native to the Americas and prized by Aztec civilization, amaranth is rich in protein, containing all the essential amino acids, key vitamins, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and iron.

Teff:  Originating in Ethiopia and Eritrea between 4,000 BCE and 1,000 BCE, this poppy seed-sized grain is high in protein, fibre, calcium, thiamin and iron.

Sorghum: Domesticated in Northeastern Africa more than 5,000 years ago, sorghum – a good source of vitamin B6, riboflavin, thiamin and magnesium – is known to support digestive health, help fight cardiovascular disease and help control blood sugar levels.

Millet: Cultivated 4,000 years ago from wild West African grass, this nutty-flavoured grain is known to be heart healthy, containing a high level of protein, magnesium and niacin. Alkalizing to the body, millet is considered one of the most digestible and non-allergenic grains available.

Catelli® Healthy Harvest® Ancient Grains pasta retails for $3.29 and is available at major retailers in Western Canada.

 

 

 

Chef Lynn Crawford shares her recipe for Chilled Noodle Salad with Ginger Wasabi Dressing using Catelli Noodles
Catelli Healthy Harvest Ancient Grains Pasta – so delicious

 

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Chicken Milanese

Mar 29, 2015 · 17 Comments

chicken milanese

Chicken Milanese are crispy chicken cutlets baked in the oven, not fried, and served with a zesty green salad. This quick and easy meal can be on the table in 30 minutes!

chicken milanese

Chicken Milanese

Milanese is derived from an Italian dish, veal milanese meaning the breading has parmesan in it. Otherwise it’s really not that different from a breaded cutlet or schnitzel. Adding parmesan to the breading adds a burst of flavour you didn’t know was there.

Using toasted breadcrumbs makes this dish look like it has a good fry on the outside when really it’s baked in the oven so way healthier!

chicken milanese

Chicken Breasts

Chicken breasts are the ultimate canvas where you can make so many recipes using this part of the bird. Less fat in the meat can also mean they can dry out quicker when cooking so timing is key to a moist meal.

chicken milanese

Milanese

Dredging thin slices of meat in flour, eggs and breadcrumbs is fairly easy to do and you can use more than just chicken breasts to make this meal. Pork, veal or lamb chops are also a great option for breading. We’ve been known to chop up some fresh oregano, basil, rosemary or parsley and mix into the breadcrumbs. Dried herbs work well too.

Chicken Milanese can be made in a few different ways. It typical to fry the chicken in some oil in a pan on the stove. I like to bake the chicken in the oven as it still crisps up and tastes great. The dressing on the salad is olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Dress it and serve it as is.

chicken milanese

Ready to get cooking?! Here’s a few things to consider.

PRO TIPS

  • Make sure you salt and pepper both your flour and your bread crumbs.
  • If you can’t find toasted breadcrumbs, you could either toast them yourself lightly in a frying pan, or use non toasted.
  • Use whatever lettuce you can get your hands on.
  • Dress the salad just before serving.

Preparing something milanese (or milanesa) style means dredging thin slices of meat in eggs and seasoned bread crumbs and frying them.

chicken milanese

Looking for more quick, easy meal ideas, check out these recipes!

  • Thai Salad with Jalapeno and Mint
  • Simple Chicken Fajitas
  • Maple Soy Pork Chops
  • Spaghetti with Italian Sausages
  • Banh Mi Sliders
  • Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans or #wandabaker

 

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Banana Orange Honey Muffins

Mar 10, 2015 · 9 Comments

banana orange honey muffins

Dairy free and sugar free, add these delicious, moist Banana Orange Honey Muffins to your weekly rotation! Amazing for a quick breakfast or anytime snack.

Banana Orange Honey Muffins

A little honey and bananas are combined with orange and chocolate chips making these the moistest muffins ever! These muffins are a great way to use up those leftover, brown and sometimes frozen bananas!

We’ve made these muffins with less white sugar and replacing with suitable ingredients. Honey or maple syrup are our go to when replacing white sugar and this substitution typically works quite well.

Honey, Maple Syrup, Sugar

No worries if you don’t have honey or maple syrup on hand, use 1/2 cup white sugar to replace the honey. Adding orange zest and juice adds to the flavour and of course the chocolate chips are always necessary!

Banana Orange Honey Muffins

Let me know what you think of these muffins in the comments if you make them. They are super moist, tasty and great for snacks and breakfast!

Love muffins? Try these recipes:

  • Double Chocolate Muffins
  • Cranberry Orange Muffins
  • Pina Colada Muffins
  • Blueberry Cardamom Muffins

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans or #wandabaker

 

Baking, Breakfast, Method banana bread, banana muffins, banana orange honey muffins, canola oil, honey muffins, making muffins without eggs, mashed bananas, muffins, orange juice, orange muffins, orange zest

7 Camping Essentials

Feb 16, 2015 · Leave a Comment

While camping is not for everyone, it’s an activity that allows us to be fully immersed in nature, unplug from electronics and the noise of every day life. Our 7 Camping Essentials will help get you started on packing for your camping trip.

Camp Cup
Camp Cup

Both my husband and I have been camping since we were little, therefore we’ve learned a thing or two along the way.

Camping as kids was easy, our parents did all the work. Camping as young adults – we typically shared the load when packing up and heading out for the weekend. As parents with kids, we now do all the work but we have a good system where each one of us has a task to do – including the kids!

Be Prepared:

The most important start to any camping trip is to create a list. A list for supplies needed, a list of things to pack and a list of meals. Our list always contains the following essential items.

Camping Pie Irons

Our first year together and my then Fiancee, now husband, took me to Rocky Lake camping with his family. His dad and dad’s girlfriend had quite the seasonal campsite set up with two trailers, a deck, garden, decoration and so much more that has grown over the years. One of the most exciting discoveries that summer, pie irons. My life was forever changed. We got some for Christmas and we also purchased our own. Fourteen years later those pie irons are still holding strong. pie-irons

Use them for making pizzas, warming up leftover stew or chili, grilled cheese, and making pies of course. Leftover mac n cheese is incredibly delicious reheated in a pie iron. There are so many things you can do with a pie iron, all you need is a little creativity!

Extra Blankets or Sleeping Bags

Even in our trailer with the heat on and flannel pyjamas, sometimes when camping in the mountains, it can get chilly at night. Pick up some extra sleeping bags, keep them rolled up and within reach in case anyone needs an extra hug. Old comforters or sheets come in handy. It’s all about the layers and you just never know when a stash of toques and mittens kept in a trailer cubby will come in handy.

Roasting Sticks

There’s just something about being able to cut and widdle your own wiener stick. Since this is not always an option based on where you are camping, we also keep metal ones in the trailer at all times. Metal ones are good for hot dogs and even smokies or sausages. Wood sticks make the best marshmallow sticks since the inside doesn’t heat up like it does with a metal stick. You can also buy these in packages. Whatever the case may be, you can never have to many.

Tent Camping
Tent Camping

Folding Portable Plastic Table

One of our favourite items is our 4′ – 6′ table set up right outside the door of our trailer. It holds all the things, allows for meal prep to be done without taking up space on the picnic table, cooking utensils to be pass down, is the perfect vessel to prepare your morning coffee, can be used later for lanterns, cocktails or s’more set up. Having a folding picnic table allows us to use the entire picnic table for board games, activities and to eat family style.

Coffee Maker

If you love coffee, you more than likely have your own favourite method for preparing it while camping. Our cousins and my brother bring out an actual coffee maker (glampers ha ha). We went for years using a percolator, but in the end it always ended up so blackened by the fire, the mess was no longer worth it. Even stored in a plastic bag the black soot got everywhere.

stainless-steel-french-press
Photo Credit: Hammacher Schlemmer

Our obsession for the last 6+ years has been a Stainless Steel French Press. Yes you need a kettle, or to boil water which you can do easily enough on the grate of your fire or camp stove. The kettle acts as double duty for hot chocolate or tea. The morning we leave for camping I always grind my beans and store them in a plastic container.  Stainless steel travels exceptionally well and it’s pretty easy to clean.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Folding Bamboo Dish Rack

Bamboo Dish Rack
Photo Credit: Amazon

There’s nothing quite like washing your dishes outside in the fresh air. You are camping so why be cooped up in your trailer doing dishes. We do our dishes either on the picnic table or our folding table. Boil the water, add in the dish soap, one for washing, one for rinsing and hello folding bamboo dish rack. They even get to drip dry in the fresh air. It dries without molding, is sturdy, folds up flat, and has a long shelf life. Meaning we’ve had ours for at least 10 years. You can now

buy them with a utensil holder which screams upgrade to me.

Head Lamps

Every changing, head lamps are light weight and powerful lights when you need them. If you are tenting or do not have a toilet inside your trailer, you will want a headlamp for those late nights you have to trek to the outhouse or washroom with or without the kids.

There are times we are camping and want to climb a hill to watch the sunset, or walk down to the beach in the dark for fireworks. The kids enjoy having them to read books before bed. Make sure you bring extra batteries.

While looking at my lists and preparing this post, the kids chimed in to help pick out some essentials we can’t live without when we go camping. We came up with so many essential camping items, there may very well be a Part II & III in the near future. Stay tuned and enjoy exploring the great outdoors!

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Salad in a Jar Recipes

Feb 16, 2015 · 9 Comments

jar salad

Some advance food prep and planning makes these Salad in a Jar Recipes an easy choice when it comes to lunch or even dinner time decisions!

Salad in a Jar Recipes

We started this salad with a zesty dressing, layered in a flavourful chick pea, brussels sprouts and lentil salad. Next was zucchini and feta before a layer of tuna, carrot and pepitas happened. We finished with fresh green spinach.

Layered Salads Comeback

While I’m no expert on the origins of recipes, I can tell you years ago, when I was growing up (in the 70’s) layered salads in glass bowls were all the rage. They were always a hit as the layers created such a pretty, vibrant effect. These are exactly the same thing only individualized.

jarred salad

Many ways to enjoy this salad

We are campers. Prepare these jarred salads for a camping trip and dinner is ready when you arrive. Lunches are obvious but they are also an easy anytime dinner. Or pack up a picnic and find a lovely spot to enjoy an afternoon outing.

The Jars

You don’t need mason jars to make these salads. Just ensure whatever jar you use has a good sealing lid. When you turn the salad over, the last thing you want is it leaking!

Mason jars on the other hand do work well and are easy to clean.

salad in jars

Create the layers

There are a few things to remember when creating your own salad in a jar.

  1. The dressing should always be the first in the jar. To avoid soggy salad.
  2. Next add your protein, grains or beans followed by chunky bits.
  3. Swap out or in what you like. I’ve added bell peppers and radishes to this funky salad.
  4. Dice and add Avocado just before serving otherwise it can brown and mushy if left too long.
  5. Dice and add tomatoes just before serving. Tomatoes should never be refrigerated as they lose flavour and texture so that’s why we add them just before eating the salad.
  6. Top with your leafy greens to keep them fresh and crunchy.

layered salad

PRO TIPS

  • Make this salad your own. Don’t like spinach, pick arugula or some other lettuce you do like.
  • I prefer Rio Mare tuna in oil. It is so flavourful and the best in this recipe.
  • Jar salads can be as elaborate or as simple as you want. Keep half the jar fresh greens, no judging.
  • When creating your layers leave a little space at the top so when you shake and eat the salad it has room to move.
  • About 5-10 minutes before serving, turn jar upside down so the dressing can slowly make its way through the salad.
  • Three is a lucky number. I make about three at a time as they are best when consumed within the first three days.

salad

Try these salads in a jar

Here’s a few more salad ideas for jars. This Broccoli Lentil Salad could easily be a jarred salad. Remember the layering tips and top with greens and even some feta or goat cheese. The Grilled Asparagus Bean Salad is another one you could easily layer. Create dressing and add to jar, mix ingredients except asparagus and add, then asparagus, some greens and you have another mason jar salad! Create layers with this Chicken Taco Salad. Keep any crunchy bits in a separate container and add just before eating. Remember the avocado tip above!

If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans and please comment below!

 

 

 

Dinner, Gluten Free, Lunch, Salads brussels sprouts, carrot, chick peas, dressing, layered salads, lentils, mason jar salad, parsley, pepitas, spinach, tuna, zucchini

Berry Lentil Smoothie

Feb 10, 2015 · 20 Comments

berry lentil smoothie

Smoothies and lentils are not two words you would normally find together. I’d never heard of a smoothie being made with lentils before so when a Canadian Lentils Contest came round for Canadian Food Bloggers, I decided to make smoothie made with lentils and enter the contest.

I didn’t win the contest but I won my kids over as they had no clue their smoothies were made with lentils!

It’s important to use cooked lentils in this recipe as they are soft and puree easily. I add everything into my blender or container at once. We enjoy our smoothies thick like milkshakes as they tend to melt quick. Adding smoothies is a great way to get an added protein boost.

 

Appetizers, Breakfast, Desserts, Food For One, Kid Friendly, Lunch, Quick Meals, Simple, Vegetarian apple, avocado, banana, berry lentil smoothie, breakfast smoothie, calgary blogger, calgary bloggers, calgary food blogger, cinnamon, coconut milk, frozen berries, green lentils, lentils, spinach, what to do with cooked lentils

Turkey Bacon Chili

Feb 8, 2015 · 6 Comments

turkey bacon chili

Enjoy a hot bowl of Turkey Bacon Chili made with ground turkey, bacon, chipotle in adobo, spices and beans!

turkey bacon chili

 

This is one chili where you will not miss the beef. Ground turkey mixed in with simple seasonings becomes a flavourful bowl of comfort food.

Chili Toppers

There’s something about crunch and texture for me combined with a spicy chili that I just adore. I’ve topped our Turkey Bacon Chili with sweet potato chips, hard boiled eggs, home made kale chips and fresh jalapeno peppers to name a few.

The options are endless!

turkey bacon chili

Slow Cooker worthy?

Absolutely! Pre-cook the bacon, shallots and turkey, toss it in a slowcooker with the remaining ingredients and let it go low and slow for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. If you check the links below you will see I also have a slow cooker chili recipe worth trying!

Chili Serving ideas

There are tons of fun ways to eat chili and I certainly have tried several of them when the kids were little.

I’ve topped cheesy macaroni or noodles with chili creating a chili mac. Served it on nachos, on a hot dog, english muffins, a thick piece of toasted bread, rounded out fresh buns for a chili bun bowl, even topped baked and hasselback potatoes.

turkey bacon chili

We’ve made several variations of chili and learned a lot along the way. Here’s a few tips and tricks to get you started.

PRO TIPS:

  • Sub in other kinds of canned beans for kidney beans.
  • Frozen corn, canned spicy chile’s, fresh avocado, grated cheese, sour cream – all delicious toppings or add-ins.
  • If you have time make it the day before and gently reheat the next day for enhanced flavour.
  • Season and taste as you go.
  • A good chili needs 1-2 hours to cook so the flavours can burst.

turkey bacon chili with egg

That time I made sweet potato chips and hard boiled eggs. And put them both on my turkey bacon chili!

Here’s few other chili recipes we love to tickle your fancy!

  • Roasted Poblano Turkey Chili
  • Vegetarian Black Bean Chili
  • Chili Verde with Pork
  • Slow Cooker Beef Chili

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Dinner, Game Day, Lunch, Quick Meals, Turkey bacon, bacon turkey chili, beans, chili, chili recipes, chipotle, cilantro, deviled egg, deviled eggs, game day food, how do you make turkey chili, kidney beans, superbowl, sweet potato, turkey, turkey chili recipes

10 Game Day Snack Ideas

Jan 31, 2015 · Leave a Comment

If you are planning on hosting the next Football, Super Bowl or Grey Cup party, or even a night in watching a hockey game, you should include these 10 Game Day Snack Ideas!

They are all tried and true crowd pleasers that include party food recipes for dips, chicken wings, cheese balls, burgers and more!

 

 

I love Game Day food. Bits, bites and everything in between. A day to be naughty and allow yourself a cheat day, if of course you are following a healthier eating regime. I scour the internet when game day approaches looking for new ideas or inspiration for some tasty bites. This year I decided, albeit kind of late, instead of sharing all my own game day posts individually, I would do a post with some of my favourite game day bites. So I picked my top ten favourites and assembled them into this 10 Game Day [Super Bowl or Grey  Cup] Snack Ideas.

Most of these are simple to make. You got this.

Buffalo Chicken & Bacon Dip

We took our favourite flavour of chicken wings, mixed in some cooked bacon, old cheddar cheese and made this a dip to remember.

buffalo chicken and bacon dip

Mini Chili Cheese Balls

Cheese Ball Mini Me. Potlucks scream cheese ball so why not turn your cheese ball into mini cheeseballs making it easier to eat these tasty little morsels! An easy bite they can be served as is, in dixie cups, with toothpicks or even on a cheese or charcuterie board

mini cheeseballs

Baked Potato Skins with Pancetta

Baked Potato Skin Bar. Potato skins are delicious to order while dining out, but why not make them at home so you can eat more! Bake a whack of potatoes, scoop out the fillings, add some melty cheese, crisp up in the oven and serve with several bowls of toppings allowing everyone to create their own unique potato skin.

baked potato skins

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings

Slow Cooker Does The Work. Chicken Wings, beer & sports are really a match made in heaven. They go together and they taste even more delicious when watching sports. The slowcooker does all the work with these wings, you simply need only broil for a few minutes to crisp and serve.

slow cooker wings

Curried Up Spinach Dip

Classic Turned Modern. We’ve taken a classic retro dish, (everyone ate it in the 1970’s and 1980’s) and changed up the flavour of your basic spinach dip by adding curry paste and topping with toasted nuts. This flavour burst will blow your socks off as you suddenly become hooked on this Curried Up Spinach Dip!

curry spinach dip

Slow Cooker Beef Chili

Chili With Toppers. Celebrate game day with a big bowl of steaming hot chili, topped with all kinds of goodies. This slowcooker cooked chili certainly makes life easier. Put our bowls with your favourite toppings and let everyone create the ultimate bowl of chili.

slowcooker chili

 Pizza Burgers

Two Favourites In One. Another game day winner is pizza or burgers and beer. Pizza Burgers have all the ingredients you would find on a pepperoni pizza making these pizza burgers the ultimate game day bite.

pizza burger

Smoked Stuffed Mushroom Stuffed Potato

Elevated Stuffed Mushrooms. A favourite bite to put out when you are having guests over for any event, these smoked stuffed mushroom stuffed potatoes are the bomb! Cooked small potatoes are stuffed with mushrooms, stuffed with filling and baked. Oh ya, it’s delicious.

stuffed mushroom

Jalapeno Tex Mex Dip

Get Your Dip On. You are going to want to have extra tortilla chips on hand for when you dig into this jalapeno tex mex dip. A favourite recipe from the 1980’s, we’d make this all the time and literally lick the dip dish clean.

jalapeno tex mex dip

 

Candied Bacon & Brown Sugar Baked Brie

Who doesn’t love a baked brie. How about one with candied bacon? Find the candied bacon recipe here: Candied Bacon

Candied Bacon & Brown Sugar Baked Brie
Candied Bacon & Brown Sugar Baked Brie

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Bites

Bacon & cheese seem to be a reoccurring theme in this post. So why not end it with these delicious bites. I jack up the cream cheese with a little something and add a new level of flavour. Yum. O.

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Bites
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Bites

Appetizers, Food For One, Game Day, Lunch, Snacks bacon, baked brie, baked wings, buffalo chicken dip, burgers, cheese, Football, Football game snacks, game day food, game snacks, mini chese balls, pizza burgers, potato skins, snacks, spinach dip, stuffed mushrooms, super bowl, wings

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Wanda, named after a German relative, started cooking in the kitchen in the 1970's with her mom. She spent countless hours in the kitchen in the 1990's cooking, testing and developing recipes. In 2006 she started this food and lifestyle blog to capture her recipes and leave a legacy for her kids. She is a mom, wife, communications and marketing professional, social media strategist, food blogger, food columnist and food writer. Currently Wanda works at the University of Calgary during the day and at night she is the Digital Media Editor for a Canadian food magazine. She continues to create recipes, write and blog in her spare time.
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✍️ Food Writer, Food Comp. Judge, Digital Editor, MarCom Mgr @SavourCalgary
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Date night from a couple months ago. This Spanish Date night from a couple months ago. This Spanish Fondue at @winebaryyc is excellent. 

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Ottolenghi delivered one of the standout meals fro Ottolenghi delivered one of the standout meals from our London trip. Bright flavours, intentional cooking, excellent service and the kind of meal you savour.

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We squeezed every last bit out of our final day in We squeezed every last bit out of our final day in London. The morning started inside the Tower of London, learning the history and admiring the Crown Jewels before drifting down the Thames by boat.

Later we ducked into The Grapes — the pub partly owned by Sir Ian McKellen — for a little LOTR nostalgia (checking out Gandolph the Grey's walking stick from the first Hobbit movie). After we found our way back to Borough Market to grab a few things to bring home.

Our final night wrapped up with dinner at Ottolenghi Spitalfields, a perfectly delicious way to say goodbye to London and so much better than our first dinner in London.

We averaged 20,000 steps each day and it didn't rain once during our visit, until we were on the plane. 🇬🇧

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London delivered another sunny day, so we started London delivered another sunny day, so we started with brekkie at Farm Girl Café soaking up the warmth before heading into the Natural History Museum.

From there it turned into one of those classic London wandering days — Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben — while we confidently zipped around the city on the Tube and double deckers like seasoned pros.

A stop at the cheese bar (all you can eat cheese served on a conveyor belt) was a highlight, but the night belonged to my favourite opera, Phantom of the Opera. 🎭

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