tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87737055760431515252024-03-19T00:00:15.546-05:00Perfecting the PairingA continuing quest to pair a recipe with its perfect mate… whether that is a tool, tune or toddy!Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.comBlogger341125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-45692124269891031242016-11-18T11:18:00.004-06:002016-11-18T11:21:00.360-06:00Chinese Sweet and Sour Dip<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Easy Entertaining</span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27706907150/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9244"><img alt="IMG_9244" height="640" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7482/27706907150_fc349d3f08_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Last weekend we had Baby Lam’s shower at our house. It was absolute perfection! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Eight of my friends and family helped host and I was just overwhelmed by the time, effort and love that went into
the shower. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/31087183875/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9484"><img alt="IMG_9484" height="427" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/6/5822/31087183875_5c99eebfe2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Our inspiration for the nursery has been Joshua 1:9, “Have I
not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with
you wherever you go”. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/30949453652/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="15042061_10103719085295220_4304312969863923194_o"><img alt="15042061_10103719085295220_4304312969863923194_o" height="427" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/6/5606/30949453652_5b38ae6bf7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I think
this translates into maps, adventure and travel! So we used the same theme for the shower for
our “Little Traveler”. Of course the
food had a global theme and each dish had a corresponding country and
flag. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Everything was delicious and looked fantastic on the serving
table.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">While my incredible hostesses did all of the work for the shower
I did contribute my new favorite appetizer, Chinese Sweet and Sour Dip. I have been making this for a few months and
it is always a hit.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27373487124/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9255"><img alt="IMG_9255" height="640" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7474/27373487124_1b7e231699_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Disclaimer, I totally realize that there is nothing even
remotely authentic about this. It is
just darn tasty.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The base is cream cheese (always a good start) and it is
topped with a combo of peanuts, veggies, cilantro, crunchy water chestnuts and
soy sauce. Then the whole thing is
drizzled with sweet and sour sauce and served with crackers.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/30944760462/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9482"><img alt="IMG_9482" height="640" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/6/5587/30944760462_cf4775ec53_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27372779643/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9248"><img alt="IMG_9248" height="640" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7485/27372779643_6260e8b5db_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I don’t know why but this stuff is truly addictive. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you are looking for an easy appetizer to serve before the
big Thanksgiving meal, here you go! I
know it is on our menu! It is easily doubled if you have a large crowd. We are hosting
Thanksgiving for the first time this year and can’t wait to celebrate with our
family in our new home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/11/thanksgiving-menu.html" target="_blank">If you are still planning your Thanksgiving menu, here are some of our absolute favorite Thanksgiving staples. </a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Happy Thanksgiving!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chinese Sweet and Sour Dip<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Adapted by Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing from <a href="http://www.joyfulscribblings.com/2014/07/sweet-sour-chinese-dip/" target="_blank">Joyful Scribblings</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/chinese-sweet-and-sour-dip" target="_blank">Printable Recipe</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 large carrot, grated</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">8 oz can sliced water chestnuts, roughly chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 green onions, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¾ cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 small garlic cloves, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup chopped cilantro (about one small bunch)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5 oz sweet and sour sauce (about ½ a standard bottle)</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spread the softened cream cheese on a platter. In a medium bowl combine the grated carrot,
chopped water chestnuts, green onion, peanuts, garlic and cilantro. Stir to combine. Stir in soy sauce so it coats all
ingredients, you can add more if it looks a little dry. Spread over the cream cheese and drizzle with
sweet and sour sauce. Serve with
crackers.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com115tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-80492402547010908582016-10-27T11:35:00.000-05:002016-10-27T11:35:53.044-05:00Egg Roll Salad<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Deep straight-sided skillet with a lid </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27373482034/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9260"><img alt="IMG_9260" height="800" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7392/27373482034_a755b59bee_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is hard to believe I have been an “Iowan” for almost
three months! I don’t know where the
time has gone. Chris and I love living
here and it really feels like home. That
being said, we both agree that sometimes it feels like we are playing house and
soon we will have to move back into a one bedroom city condo. Our baby boy is growing (and boy am I
growing) and kicking and moving! I love
to watch and feel him moving around and getting comfy in there. He has a tendency to stop as soon as Chris
puts his hand on my stomach. Stinker!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27986691125/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9264"><img alt="IMG_9264" height="800" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/8/7384/27986691125_e783cfcd60_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A big part of the move has been my transition to working
from home full time. So far I have
really enjoyed the experience. I did
find that I need to make myself get out and do things because a few days will
go by without leaving my neighborhood. I’m
sure it will be 10x harder once baby boy Lam arrives! While I no longer need to pack a lunch to
take to the office I find that it is much easier to have a big batch of
something made at the beginning of the week so I can have a quick lunch ready when
I don’t have a lot of time away from my desk.
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27884571542/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9257"><img alt="IMG_9257" height="427" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7412/27884571542_cdaf438e19_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This Egg Roll Salad has been a staple lunch for me since I
started working from home. Not only is
it delicious and satisfying it is incredibly light and healthy. It is full of protein and fiber! It is called an Egg Roll Salad because it
tastes like the inside of an egg roll.
Side note, one thing that we miss from Chicago was the Chinese food
delivery place that was a block from our condo.
The meals were just ok but they had the BEST egg rolls I’ve ever had in
my life and they would legit deliver in under 15 minutes. I miss those unhealthy rolls. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I use my <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/calphalon-reg-contemporary-nonstick-3-quart-saute-pan/1013015325?skuId=13015325&mcid=PS_googlepla_nonbrand_cookware_&product_id=13015325&adpos=1o4&creative=43742634349&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=CjwKEAjwy8bABRD5osXMovTHpmQSJACfZY0FtSoQOw310eaeZadZ38AshNeY1QJbmjk0EjEHXGo91BoC16Pw_wcB" target="_blank">trusty straight sided skillet for this meal</a>. I use this skillet more than any other pan in
my kitchen. I am actually on my second
generation because I wore out the first one.
Tip from the top, I found both of mine at a discount price at Home
Goods. You need a pan that has a large
capacity for this recipe since you will be steaming two bags of slaw. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27373476684/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9267"><img alt="IMG_9267" height="800" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7426/27373476684_7564f09224_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I always serve this with an extra drizzle of soy sauce and
sriracha. So good!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/10/cream-filled-chocolate-cupcakes.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Cream Filled Chocolate Cupcakes</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/10/sloppy-joe-dip.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Sloppy Joe Dip</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/10/pumpkin-crisp.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Pumpkin Crisp</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/10/spinach-and-mushroom-lasagna-roll-ups.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Roll-Ups</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/10/baked-pumpkin-chocolate-chip-oatmeal.html" target="_blank">Five years ago on Perfecting the Pairing (my first ever "Five years ago!": Baked Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Oatmeal</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Egg Roll Salad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/egg-roll-salad" target="_blank">Printable Recipe</a></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 lb ground pork or turkey</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 onion, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 jalapeno, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 large garlic cloves, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 packages (14 oz, each) slaw mix with shredded carrots</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">6 green onions, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">8 oz can chopped water chestnuts</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup chopped cilantro</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup sliced basil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup sliced mint</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup soy sauce</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 tsp sesame oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Soy sauce and Sriracha for serving</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a large sauté pan with sides and a lid, break up and cook
the ground meat over medium heat until no longer pink. Remove from pan and reserve. Wipe out any excess grease, you just need a
little to saute the vegetables. Add the
chopped onion and jalapeno to the pan and saute until they start to
soften. Add the garlic and ginger and
cook until just soft. Add in the slaw
mixture and green onions and stir to combine.
You may need to add in batches if it does not fit right away. Use the lid to steam the slaw until it starts
to soften but still has a little crunch.
When the slaw has softened stir in the water chestnuts, cilantro, basil,
mint, soy sauce and sesame oil until combined and warmed through. Serve with additional soy sauce and sriracha
to taste.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com86tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-29875060730573535502016-08-26T11:17:00.000-05:002016-08-26T11:17:23.313-05:00Un-Recipe Files - Mango with Lime and Chile Salt<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Vegetable Peeler</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24886842815/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1865"><img alt="IMG_1865" height="427" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/2/1454/24886842815_1d1e017ff3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So there have been a few changes recently in the Lam fam! At the end of July we moved into our new home
in Bettendorf, Iowa. We were in transition for a few months until
we closed on our new home. We absolutely
loved living with my parents at the lake (AKA: my favorite place on
earth). It was great to have time to
relax after moving from Chicago and before moving into a new home. Friends, moving is stressful! Fortunately we had an army of helpers that
actually made moving fun!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chris and I are loving our new home and neighborhood. I miss Chicago restaurants and our friends
there, but that is about it! Moving into
a new state/home may not be the biggest news for us…. We are expecting a little
one in January!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/28957661070/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="13886347_10103437112910140_4104588252232256199_n"><img alt="13886347_10103437112910140_4104588252232256199_n" height="640" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8835/28957661070_d59fb3d272_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We are both over the moon excited to grow our family and
become parents. Fortunately I have felt
great and have really enjoyed pregnancy.
Now that we are moved in and the final box has been emptied we can focus
on all things baby! I am truly pinching
myself over all our blessings. God is
good!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of the most common questions I get is if I am having any
odd food cravings or aversions. While I
haven’t been dipping pickles in Nutella there are some foods that speak to me. In fact, they call out to me. I am loving cereal, fruit, anything pickled
and carbs in general. The only aversion
so far has been certain vegetables. I
will love them one day and detest them the next day. The pregnant body/mind is a fascinating thing. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24886822325/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1841"><img alt="IMG_1841" height="800" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/2/1690/24886822325_f0b11a6322_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In addition to green grapes and blueberries I have been
eating a lot of mangos. Fortunately they
have been on sale at our local grocery store so I can feel good about adding
them to the cart every trip. My mango
obsession actually started before I was pregnant. During our vacation to Cabo this year I
discovered the Mango Man. I kept seeing
people eating mangos on a stick or in a bowl with something red sprinkled on
top. My curiosity got the best of me one
day when he was on the beach in front of our hotel and I ponied up the cash to
try one. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/28622476444/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_5124"><img alt="IMG_5124" height="800" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8157/28622476444_91566b9275_c.jpg" width="600" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Holy smokes. Game changer.
Mango Man would peel the mango with lightning speed, chop it with a
machete, squeeze fresh lime juice on top and sprinkle with chile lime
salt. The whole thing happened in about
15 seconds. I quite literally chased him
down the beach the rest of the trip. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/29137399862/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_5128"><img alt="IMG_5128" height="800" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8305/29137399862_f98641f949_c.jpg" width="600" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I started doing my own version of this once I was back
home. Sometimes I use a chile lime salt
(<a href="http://www.tajin.com/products/tajin_clasico?LNG=1#0,1" target="_blank">like this</a>) and sometimes I use <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/05/lamsinlove.html" target="_blank">my wedding Sriracha Salt</a>. You can also just use a sprinkle of good
kosher. The combination of the sweet
ripe mango, tangy lime and spicy salt is perfection. The perfect pairing, my friends! I had always scored and peeled the skin off
mango in sections but after seeing Mango Man’s methods I started using my
trusty veggie peeler and was amazed with the results. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24768951782/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1847"><img alt="IMG_1847" height="427" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/2/1529/24768951782_960ddcd818_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Eat and enjoy!!</span><o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24793458711/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1860"><img alt="IMG_1860" height="427" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/2/1542/24793458711_1fac958b97_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-71587283258446852902016-07-08T13:07:00.000-05:002016-07-08T13:07:46.235-05:00Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Grilled dinner</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27373502124/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9204"><img alt="IMG_9204" height="800" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7460/27373502124_5700d4d861_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Last summer I went to a food and wine festival at Lincoln
Park in Chicago. Chris gave me the
tickets for my birthday and I was SO excited.
The morning of the festival I woke up feeling gnarly and not at all like
going to a food festival, but I persevered because that is my mecca. I saw demos from some of my favorite chefs
like Rick Bayless and Stephanie Izard and tried lots of good food and wine. Fortunately, I felt better as the day went on
and we had a great time!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27372784683/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9223"><img alt="IMG_9223" height="800" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7439/27372784683_728c3e9f78_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of the best bites of food I had all day was a truffled
Mexican street corn. Holy corn Batman,
it was delicious. I may have gone back
for seconds… and thirds. It was a small
piece of sweet corn rolled in some glorious mayonnaise mixture then topped with
parmesan and shaved truffles. I just can’t
even describe it. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27952193016/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9193"><img alt="IMG_9193" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7512/27952193016_10750e11d7_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Last summer my cousin’s wife made an extraordinarily good
Mexican Street Corn dip for our annual Lake House Chef’s Challenge. It was a serious crowd pleaser. So, ever since the dip and the festival corn
I have been wanting to try a variation on Mexican street corn.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27372796513/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9177"><img alt="IMG_9177" height="427" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7299/27372796513_092b1a2b36_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Enter Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad! Grilled corn and grilled scallions are mixed
with pasta in a tangy sauce and then combined with cilantro, parmesan and avocado.
It is really tasty. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27373508194/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9182"><img alt="IMG_9182" height="427" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7285/27373508194_f76939a63e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you have not grilled your scallions you are missing
out. It totally changes the flavor. They are fantastic on tacos.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27373506314/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9184"><img alt="IMG_9184" height="427" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7355/27373506314_625f8376af_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This salad is so not the typical summer pasta salad and
would be a hit at any party. There is
some prep involved so I think it is paired best with a simple grilled entrée like
hamburgers or brats. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27908898711/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9229"><img alt="IMG_9229" height="427" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7438/27908898711_31d126a821_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I wonder what else you can do with Mexican street corn. Goals!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27373499804/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9209"><img alt="IMG_9209" height="800" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7343/27373499804_6fb597e0a3_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/07/simple-fruit-dip.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Simple Fruit Dip<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/07/un-recipe-files-avocado-and-strawberry.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Avocado and Strawberry Toast with Feta and Honey</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/07/salted-peanut-bars.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Salted Peanut Bars</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/07/fruit-pizza-cookies.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Fruit Pizza Cookies<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/mexican-street-corn-pasta-salad" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5 ears sweet corn</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 bunches green onions, root and top 2 inches of green part
removed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Olive Oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Salt and Pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¾ cup mayonnaise</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¾ cup sour cream</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb lime zest</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 Tb lime juice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ tsp salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ tsp pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp cumin</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dash of cayenne pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 lb Rotini pasta</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup grated parmesan</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup chopped cilantro</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 avocados, cut into bite-sized pieces</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the grill to medium heat. Coat the ears of corn and green onions in a
thin layer of olive oil. It is fine if
you don’t get every inch of the veggies.
Season corn and onions generously with salt and pepper. Grill until slightly charred. The green onions will cook much faster than
the corn. Allow to cool slightly. Cut the corn off the cob and chop the green
onions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a small bowl make the dressing by combining the mayonnaise,
sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, cumin
and dash of cayenne pepper. Whisk to
combine. Taste for seasoning and adjust
with salt, pepper, cayenne and lime.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain and
add to a large bowl. Allow to cool
slightly. Add in the corn and green
onions. Add in about half of the sauce,
stir gently to coat. Add more sauce as
needed. You may need all of the sauce
but you don’t want it drowning in it.
Add the grated parmesan, cilantro and avocado and stir gently to not
smash the avocados. Chill and serve!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-70523253681811405622016-06-29T17:25:00.000-05:002016-06-29T17:25:21.043-05:00Creamy Goat Cheese, Pesto and Burst Tomato Dip<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing:</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Crackers</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27883523222/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9085"><img alt="IMG_9085" height="640" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7455/27883523222_1e57deea16_z.jpg" width="498" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Summer! It truly is the
most wonderful time of the year. I am
soaking up every minute because I am already panicking that it is almost
July. Wait!! I was going to do so much
more in June! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27985560615/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9059"><img alt="IMG_9059" height="427" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7505/27985560615_151ae1d13d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am lucky enough to live
at the lake this summer until we close on our new home at the end of July. I’m not going to lie, it doesn’t suck living
and working here. I pinch myself daily
looking at the beautiful views. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27883520632/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9088"><img alt="IMG_9088" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7352/27883520632_85b55ae1b0_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A TGIF cruise is a favorite summer tradition. We load up the pontoon with friends, food and
drinks. We set sail (motor) into the
sunset with some chill music and enjoy the appetizer buffet in front of
us. Heavenly.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27883526472/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9075"><img alt="IMG_9075" height="427" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7288/27883526472_dd36c5b1a8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This appetizer is perfect for a TGIF cruise or any appetizer
night. A layer of whipped goat cheese is
topped with prepared pesto and finished with burst cherry tomatoes. Drag a cracker through all of it and you have
an incredibly flavorful summer app. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/27883515932/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9094"><img alt="IMG_9094" height="640" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7291/27883515932_8398c7cc05_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/06/spaghetti-squash-frittata.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Spaghetti Squash Frittata</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/06/spring-roll-salad.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Spring Roll Salad<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/06/raisin-bran-muffins.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Raisin Bran Muffins</a> (these are ALWAYS in the fridge in the summer)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/06/corn-and-avocado-salsa.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Corn and Avocado Salsa</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Creamy Goat Cheese, Pesto and Burst Tomato Dip<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/creamy-goat-cheese-pesto-and-burst-tomato-dip" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 pint grape tomatoes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp Italian seasoning</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 oz goat cheese</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup cream cheese</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup prepared pesto</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Salt and pepper, to taste</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. In a bowl toss the tomatoes, olive oil,
Italian seasoning and salt and pepper, to taste. Toss onto a greased cookie sheet and roast,
tossing occasionally, for 25-30 minutes.
The tomatoes should just start to burst. In a food processor combine the
goat cheese and cream cheese, process until smooth and season with salt and
pepper, to taste. Spread the cheese
mixture on a platter and top with pesto and roasted tomatoes. Serve with crackers.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-70278991467594746722016-05-19T17:21:00.002-05:002016-05-19T17:21:28.671-05:00Grilled Ranch Potato and Sausage Packets<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: 8-cup glass measuring bowl</span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21425130498/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1561"><img alt="IMG_1561" height="463" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5804/21425130498_7017a889d7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Friends! Are you
still with me?! If you are, bless your
heart. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So… I have been majorly slacking on my little passion
project, Perfecting the Pairing. Let’s
be honest, all of 2016 has been a bust, but the last two months have been
ridiculous with ZERO posts. I have a
good reason! Life has been bananas! Wonderful, but bananas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the last month Chris accepted a job in Iowa,
we sold our condo in the city (closing soon), I started working remotely (it was
an answered prayer to keep my job), we celebrated our one year anniversary, and we moved in with my parents until we
close on our new home in Bettendorf, Iowa.
We kind of feel like our lives have been turned upside down but we are
absolutely overjoyed with the exciting changes happening. We are going to miss Chicago so much (especially
our friends… and the restaurants) but we can’t wait to open the next chapter in
IOWA. If you follow this blog at all you
know how much I love the lake where my parents live, so living there has not
been a hard adjustment! </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21613046885/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1520"><img alt="IMG_1520" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5735/21613046885_84fa6bd9c5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now that life has normalized a bit I am anxious to start
blogging again! These days I get to cook
on a regular basis for more people and have access to all of my mom’s fun
kitchen gadgets/serving pieces/spices/etc.
I have ZERO excuses!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The warm weather makes me want to grill all the time. Grilled foil packets are a quick and easy dinner with
minimal clean up. Everything is mixed
together (potatoes, green beans, shallots, and pre-cooked chicken sausage) to make a
complete meal. The whole shebang is
seasoned with ranch seasoning and red pepper flakes and thrown on the grill. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21425155058/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1523"><img alt="IMG_1523" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5629/21425155058_6e94103ef0_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So simple!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/20991840823/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1552"><img alt="IMG_1552" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/585/20991840823_86e24d628b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I pre-cook the potatoes for a few minutes in the microwave
to speed up the grilling process. I use
<a href="http://www.pyrexware.com/8-cup-measuring-cup/5301218.html" target="_blank">my favorite 8-cup glass measuring bowl</a>.
This is a must-have tool in my kitchen.
I use it all the time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/20991833893/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1567"><img alt="IMG_1567" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/644/20991833893_16d30bf4c1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Perfecting the Pairing is back! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/05/lamsinlove-part-2.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: We got married!<o:p></o:p></a> #LamsInLoveForever</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/05/grilled-chili-lime-sweet-potatoes.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Grilled Chili Lime Sweet Potatoes</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/05/greek-turkey-burgers.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Greek Turkey Burgers</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/05/pickle-dip.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Pickle Dip</a> (I just re-discovered this recipe and make it all the time. Now I add a spoonful of hot pepper jelly!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Grilled Ranch Potato and Sausage Packets<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/grilled-ranch-potato-and-sausage-packets" target="_blank">Printable Recipe</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 lb thin skinned potatoes (yellow or gold), cubed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">12 oz green beans, halved</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 large shallots, sliced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 garlic cloves, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 pre-cooked chicken sausages, sliced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 Tb olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1, 1.0 oz, Ranch seasoning packet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 Tb butter, cubed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Salt and pepper, to taste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Red pepper flakes, to taste</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the grill to medium high heat. Place the potato cubes in a large, covered, microwave-safe
bowl and microwave on high for 6 minutes.
Make two foil packets by laying two pieces of foil perpendicular to each
other and spray with cooking spray. Add the
green beans, shallots, garlic, and chicken sausage to the bowl with the
potatoes. Stir to combine. Pour the olive oil and ranch seasoning over
the mixture and stir to coat evenly.
Split the mixture between the two foil packets. Top each with the cubed butter, season with
salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Wrap up the foil packets tightly closing any vents. Place on the hot grill and cook for 30-45
minutes until the potatoes are cooked through and lightly browned. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-82550335148667109162016-03-21T16:59:00.000-05:002016-03-21T17:03:13.000-05:00Creamy Shrimp Dip<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Crackers and Cucumber</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24860552336/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1902"><img alt="IMG_1902" height="427" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1483/24860552336_60bef2cfeb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Making dreams come true!
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24258679554/in/dateposted-public/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" title="IMG_1913"><img alt="IMG_1913" height="427" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1716/24258679554_535836353d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">That was a bit of a red herring. This Creamy Shrimp Dip is good but will not
make dreams come true. Now, Disney World….
That is a place that can actually make dreams come true! I just got home from a trip to Florida. Among the highlights were lots of relaxation
time on the beach, seeing dolphins almost every day, locally grown
strawberries, and ample reading time with a palm tree view. My husband’s highlight was watching <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/05/lamsinlove-part-2.html" target="_blank">his team</a>,
the Detroit Tigers, at Spring Training.
My favorite part was spending a day at the happiest place on earth,
Magic Kingdom. I was so excited to share
my favorite place with Chris. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/25669521480/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="10176002_10103116435280680_2229333441393397516_n"><img alt="10176002_10103116435280680_2229333441393397516_n" height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1530/25669521480_f9a5af39cf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We had an incredible day.
The weather was perfection! I
insisted on making the most of the day.
We were some of the first people in the park when it opened and we stayed
until the final fireworks. I think we
just beat the spring break crowd because we were able to do every single
attraction on our (my) list and only waited for about 30 minutes, tops. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/25875130241/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="12813906_10207479536700413_2477267959671910305_n"><img alt="12813906_10207479536700413_2477267959671910305_n" height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1521/25875130241_c3331dc432_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In addition to the must-do attractions, there are a few
mandatory food stops. We had the famous
Dole pineapple whip (<a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/03/impossibly-light-pineapple-whip.html" target="_blank">Chris said he liked my impossibly light version better!</a>)
and a Mickey shaped rice krispy treat. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/25669521460/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="10356766_10207480495364379_1110960131734085476_n"><img alt="10356766_10207480495364379_1110960131734085476_n" height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1592/25669521460_6126bdbc05_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I can’t wait to go back!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/25970083265/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="12805698_10103117613434650_7243312812947248771_n"><img alt="12805698_10103117613434650_7243312812947248771_n" height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1495/25970083265_15c9af0e2c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So this Creamy Shrimp Dip won’t make your dreams come true,
but it is so easy and tasty! The creamy
base is sour cream and mayonnaise, light is fine. Crunch is added with cucumber and green
onion. Flavor comes from a hit of
horseradish, lemon, and a healthy dose of fresh dill. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24860549406/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1907"><img alt="IMG_1907" height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1697/24860549406_6f7669d5a9_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Delicious with crackers or cucumber slices. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24768925402/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1921"><img alt="IMG_1921" height="449" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1468/24768925402_76cc94c160_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/03/impossibly-light-pineapple-whip.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Impossibly Light Pineapple Whip</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/03/slow-cooker-calico-bean-bake.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Slow Cooker Calico Bean Bake</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/03/turkey-meatball-sandwiches.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Turkey Meatball Sandwiches</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/03/thai-chicken-pasta.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Thai Chicken Pasta</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Creamy Shrimp Dip<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/creamy-shrimp-dip" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup mayonnaise</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup sour cream</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb horseradish</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 Tb fresh lemon juice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined and chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 green onions, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup chopped fresh dill</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ tsp salt, more to taste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pepper, to taste</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream, horseradish, and lemon
juice in a large bowl. Add the chopped
cucumber, shrimp, green onions, dill, and salt.
Fold together with a spatula until evenly combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Let sit in refrigerator for about 2 hours
before serving. Great with crackers or
cucumber slices.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-10110744275960451542016-02-19T11:22:00.000-06:002016-02-19T12:13:43.248-06:00Mushroom Flatbread with Pesto, Goat Cheese, and Balsamic<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Girls' Night</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24258691044/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1870"><img alt="IMG_1870" height="427" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1657/24258691044_5949183062_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A couple weeks ago Chris was out of town for the night on a
mini “bro-cation”. For the record, he
did not call it this, that is 100% me.
He headed to Champaign/Urbana to watch the Fighting Illini play. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24591383650/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1868"><img alt="IMG_1868" height="427" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1560/24591383650_86e6d76d53_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">That meant I had a night by myself at
home. I was going to miss him, but I was
also going to make the most of it by making it super girly. I was going to make the girliest thing I
could think of for dinner, enjoy a mini bottle of champagne, and watch a chick
flick that featured Bradley Cooper as a chef.
I was pumped.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/25130217925/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_5171"><img alt="IMG_5171" height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1690/25130217925_e15c750a7a_z.jpg" width="589" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I formulated my plan for a girly dinner as I perused the
grocery store. What is girlier than
flatbread with goat cheese? I mean, it
is actually just pizza, but we call it flatbread so it sounds classy. If I was making pizza for my husband it would
most definitely have some kind of meat on it.
If I am making it for me it is going to be overflowing with
mushrooms. Chris is not a huge fan, so
this was the perfect time to go fungi-wild.
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24591379700/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1879"><img alt="IMG_1879" height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1509/24591379700_b31e0db401_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Instead of traditional pizza sauce I used a basil
pesto. So much flavor! I always keep pesto in the freezer, it is a
great ingredient to have on hand.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24499519054/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_5173"><img alt="IMG_5173" height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1625/24499519054_dc3b5645a6_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The sautéed mushrooms are finished off with a caramelization
of balsamic, and then the whole flatbread is dotted with tangy goat
cheese. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/24860555096/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1890"><img alt="IMG_1890" height="427" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1487/24860555096_382b0e4d34_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So good. So
girly. Dudes, if you want to make and
enjoy this flatbread…. No judgement here!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/02/brussels-sprout-and-pear-salad-with.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Brussels Sprout and Pear Salad with Bacon and Candied Pistachios </a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/02/chocolate-sauce.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Chocolate Sauce<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/02/butternut-squash-risotto.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Butternut Squash Risotto</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/02/oven-roasted-salmon-in-lemon-broth-with.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Oven Roasted Salmon in Lemon Broth with Pea Puree</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mushroom Flatbread with Pesto, Goat Cheese, and Balsamic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/mushroom-flatbread-with-pesto-goat-cheese-and-balsamic" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 pre-made thin pizza crust</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb butter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 shallot, thinly sliced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">16 oz mushrooms (cremini, button, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5 sprigs of thyme</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Salt and pepper, to taste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb balsamic vinegar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup basil pesto</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 oz goat cheese</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat oven according to crust instructions. If you have a pizza stone preheat in the
oven. Melt the butter in a skillet over
medium heat, add the shallots and sauté until they just start to soften. Reduce heat to medium low. Add the mushrooms and thyme sprigs to the pan
and cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the thyme sprigs and discard, they
should have dropped their leaves in the mushrooms and will add great
flavor. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and
sauté until most of the liquid has caramelized on the mushrooms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spread the pesto evenly on the crust and top with the
mushrooms. Dot the flatbread with goat
cheese and place on the pizza stone, or a pan, and bake according to package
instructions. It only took about 8
minutes for me.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-72764892440324391782016-02-09T16:01:00.002-06:002016-02-09T16:05:47.422-06:00Miso Potatoes<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: </span><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/09/chicken-yakitori.html" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: xx-large;" target="_blank">Chicken Yakitori</a><br />
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<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18740593812/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1494"><img alt="IMG_1494" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/519/18740593812_9a0f78d69d_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Have you bought miso yet?
I extolled its virtues in this super simple <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/09/grilled-sweet-miso-salmon.html" target="_blank">Grilled Miso Salmon</a> and in
this <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/03/grilled-vegetable-salad-with-miso.html" target="_blank">Grilled Vegetable Salad with Miso Dressing and Toasted Cashews</a>. I can’t tell you how often I use miso in
everyday cooking in salad dressings, marinades, and seasoning for roasted
vegetables. That being said, I think this potato
recipe is my favorite use of miso.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18557785360/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1493"><img alt="IMG_1493" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/257/18557785360_a6693ca51e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Small red potatoes are boiled until they are just tender, fried
in a little melted butter, and then coated in an umami bomb of miso, brown
sugar, and spicy garlic paste. They are mouthwatering. They also smell amazing while you are pan
frying them. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18559305339/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1512"><img alt="IMG_1512" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/406/18559305339_a85e30abd8_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I think these little beauties are great served with any
grilled Asian-inspired protein. I served
them alongside <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/09/chicken-yakitori.html" target="_blank">Chicken Yakitori</a> and a simple slaw. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18122865854/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1509"><img alt="IMG_1509" height="471" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/396/18122865854_3dd756003a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You will love this detour from your regularly
scheduled potatoes!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/02/cheeseburger-soup.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Cheeseburger Soup</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/02/lemon-cream-pasta.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Lemon Cream Pasta </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/01/baked-brie-dip.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Baked Brie Dip</a></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/02/ham-cheese-and-asparagus-croissants.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Ham, Cheese, and Asparagus Croissants</a></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Miso Potatoes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Adapted by Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing from <a href="http://www.pbs.org/food/fresh-tastes/spicy-miso-glazed-potatoes/" target="_blank">PBS</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/miso-potatoes" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">24 oz small red potatoes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb white miso paste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb sherry</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb Chicken broth or water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb brown sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 tsp chili garlic paste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb butter</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Boil the potatoes in water until they are fork tender. Drain the potatoes and allow them to
dry. In a small bowl combine the
remaining ingredients, except the butter, whisk to combine. Add the butter to a large skillet and
melt. Toss in the potatoes and fry until
they just start to turn golden, toss gently to brown on all sides. Add in the miso sauce and continue to stir gently
until the sauce cooks onto the potato skins and caramelizes.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-76037879948362625312016-01-19T14:36:00.001-06:002016-01-19T14:36:17.960-06:00Spicy Pineapple Margaritas<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Good
tequila</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21622171861/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_7450"><img alt="IMG_7450" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/694/21622171861_e1101116b8_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since I started Perfecting the Pairing the first blog post
each January is something really healthy.
It’s always a recipe to help with those New Year’s Resolutions. In the past I have posted about a light
<a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/01/berries-n-cream.html" target="_blank">Berries n’ Cream Dessert</a>, the uber-healthy diet food, <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/12/chicken-vegetable-barley-soup.html" target="_blank">Chicken Vegetable Barley Soup</a>, <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/12/sweet-sesame-green-beans.html" target="_blank">Sweet Sesame Green Beans</a>, and a hearty <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/01/spaghetti-squash-pizza-casserole.html" target="_blank">Spaghetti Squash Pizza Casserole</a>. This year was to be no
different, except life caught up with me and it just didn’t happen. I did jump right on the healthy bandwagon, it
just didn’t quite make it to the blog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I kept telling myself to do it, but now we are well into
January and the healthy resolutions post lost some luster. Why not move onto something more inviting in
these frigid temperatures? Something
that will remind you of being on a beach somewhere. MARGARITAS.
Not just any margarita, a Spicy Pineapple Margarita with a cinnamon sugar
rim. Yes, please. Add some guac and the Latin Heat Pandora
station and you are basically on vacation.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21425245580/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_7439"><img alt="IMG_7439" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5642/21425245580_cb4a63bda9_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I made these margaritas with an incredible tequila, <a href="http://www.hotelcaliforniatequilausa.com/our_tequila.html?section=reposado_section" target="_blank">Hotel California Reposado</a>. It is hands down
the best, smoothest tequila I have ever tasted.
It also comes in a gorgeous red glass bottle, which I am obsessed with.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21426347069/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_7433"><img alt="IMG_7433" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/680/21426347069_f57bbcba7d_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When my parents are on vacation they tend to make
friends. They’ll chat with the staff,
the person next to them by the pool, or the person next to them at a
restaurant. I love it! They have made some wonderful friends through
the years. Last year while in Cabo my
mom and I met a beautiful new friend named Paula while relaxing with an ocean
view. After chatting with her and her
husband for some time we found out that they own and operate the <a href="http://www.hotelcaliforniatequilausa.com/home.html" target="_blank">Hotel California Tequila company</a>. Their tequila is award
winning and highly rated. The <a href="http://www.hotelcaliforniatequilausa.com/our_tequila.html?section=reposado_section" target="_blank">Reposado </a>I
used scored 93 points with The Critico Official Tequila Rating
Co. You could sip it on the
rocks. Or, make some quality margaritas.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21426345169/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_7438"><img alt="IMG_7438" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/720/21426345169_406d1a5688_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/01/creole-jicama-hash-with-sunny-side-up.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Creole Jicama Hash with a Sunny Side Up Egg</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/01/southwestern-chicken-slow-cooker-soup.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Southwestern Chicken Slow Cooker Soup</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/01/arugula-and-parmesan-stuffed-potatoes.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Arugula and Parmesan Stuffed Potatoes</a></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
</div>
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</div>
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<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/01/lasagna-soup.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Lasagna Soup</a></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spicy Pineapple Margaritas<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/spicy-pineapple-margaritas" target="_blank">Printable Recipe</a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup good tequila</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 jalapeno, sliced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup triple sec</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ tsp cinnamon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ tsp vanilla</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup lime juice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 cups pineapple juice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cinnamon sugar</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Steep the jalapeno slices in the tequila for 4-8 hours,
drain. Combine the spicy tequila, triple
sec, cinnamon, vanilla, lime juice, and pineapple juice in a picture. Dip the top of the serving glasses in water
or lime juice, then in the cinnamon sugar, allow to set. Pour the margarita mixture over ice in a
martini shaker, shake and serve on the rocks in the rimmed glass.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-6989597518963563582015-12-22T13:16:00.000-06:002015-12-22T13:16:31.703-06:00Roasted Garlic Herbed White Bean Dip with Basil Tomatoes<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Perfect Pairing: </span><a href="http://www.ritzcrackers.com/varieties/toasted%20chips/original" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;" target="_blank">Ritz Chips</a></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21425123418/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1587"><img alt="IMG_1587" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/638/21425123418_4bf1229894_z.jpg" width="466" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am officially in the Christmas mood! The odd warm weather in Chicago during
December has made it difficult to feel that cozy Christmas feel you get in the
weeks leading up to the big day. Over
the weekend we headed to my parents’ house, AKA Christmas wonderland. My mom does a fantastic job of decorating the
house, inside and out. My husband was
there for 5 minutes and said, “I am officially in the Christmas spirit!”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We did a LOT of cooking over the weekend. I think we made about 6 dozen cookies, 15
loaves of bread, 2 lasagnas, caramelized bacon (more on this in the future) and
7 batches of homemade noodles. Every
year my dad and I make these homemade egg noodles for chicken and noodles,
which we enjoy with our extended family.
We serve chicken and noodles with mashed potatoes, starch on
starch. It is odd, and amazing, and the
ultimate comfort food.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23268827043/in/dateposted-public/" title="image2"><img alt="image2" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/769/23268827043_dda90863e5_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23787290622/in/dateposted-public/" style="text-align: start;" title="image1"><img alt="image1" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/674/23787290622_b8778c25b2_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We listened to non-stop Christmas music. We also wrapped presents. Correction, Chris wrapped presents and I put
bows (we call this foof in our house) on them.
My mom is the BEST gift wrapper around.
She truly has a gift. See what I
did there?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23268827253/in/dateposted-public/" title="image4"><img alt="image4" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5631/23268827253_263367c6fe_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We also worked on our menu for the next couple of
weeks. Per usual, there is an appetizer
night scheduled. Who doesn’t love
appetizers and a glass of wine? It is my
favorite kind of meal. Roasted Garlic
Herbed White Bean Dip with Basil Tomatoes is the perfect addition. Not only is it delicious and light, it is
quite festive if I do say so myself. All
sorts of red and green happening here.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/20992245583/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1611"><img alt="IMG_1611" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/597/20992245583_d6ff187c32_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you would like a shortcut you could skip making your own
hummus (but really don’t skip that) and top store-bought with the tomato and
herb mixture. While you are at it, roast
multiple heads of garlic. They are great
to have on hand for salad dressings, mixing in mashed potatoes, or as a
straight up spread on crostini. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/20992161963/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1588"><img alt="IMG_1588" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5695/20992161963_7cf4b31b9d_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This dip was quite tasty served with <a href="http://www.ritzcrackers.com/varieties/toasted%20chips/original" target="_blank">Ritz Chips</a>. Those things are too tasty for their own
good. I am not sponsored by them in any way, I'm just a fan. It would also be great with pita
chips or your favorite cracker. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21425354830/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1604"><img alt="IMG_1604" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/591/21425354830_a2fcca1e5b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I hope you all have a blessed Christmas and New Year with
your loved ones! I cherish this time
with my family celebrating the birth of our Savior and reflecting on the
year. This one was pretty special
me! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/20992255373/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1592"><img alt="IMG_1592" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/761/20992255373_d20ebb67e6_z.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/12/mustard-pork-chops.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Mustard Pork Chops<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/12/fruit-slush.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Fruit Slush<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/12/german-sugar-cut-out-cookies.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: German Sugar Cut-Out Cookies (pictured above!)</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/12/flatbreads-with-thyme-honey-and-sea.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Flatbreads with Thyme, Honey, and Sea Salt</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Roasted Garlic Herbed White Bean Dip with Basil Tomatoes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/roasted-garlic-herbed-white-bean-dip-with-basil-tomatoes" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 head of garlic</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Salt and pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 shallots, thinly sliced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 pints grape tomatoes, halved</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup sliced basil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb chopped rosemary</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb thyme leaves</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp lemon zest</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb fresh lemon juice</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Remove the excess paper off of the head of
garlic and cut off the very top of the head to expose the garlic. Place the head of garlic on a sheet of foil,
drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Seal the foil packet and place in the
oven. Roast the garlic for 40-50 minutes
until the cloves are soft and caramelized.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a nonstick skillet heat a teaspoon of olive oil, add the
sliced shallots and sauté until they start to caramelize. Add the halved tomatoes to the pan and cook
until the tomatoes start to break down and become jammy. Remove from heat, season with salt and
pepper, and stir in the sliced basil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Place the beans in the bowl of a food processor, add the
rosemary, thyme, lemon zest and juice, and 2 Tb of olive oil. Add about one half of the head of garlic to
the bowl. Process until smooth and
creamy, scraping down the sides. Taste
and season with salt and pepper.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Top the bean dip with the basil tomatoes and serve with
crackers or pita chips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-59694824781975770692015-12-08T15:39:00.000-06:002015-12-09T11:24:35.168-06:00Arugula and Pea Salad<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: That
oh-so healthy time between Thanksgiving and Christmas!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/20992224833/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1648"><img alt="IMG_1648" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5629/20992224833_ac17c12df3_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am lucky/unlucky enough to have a brother that lives in
San Francisco. The lucky part is obvious
because San Francisco is one of the world’s greatest cities. The unlucky part is that it is very far from
Chicago and I miss his family. I have
two very adorable nieces that steal your heart.
As my mom always says when she leaves there after a visit, “I left part
of my heart in San Francisco.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22988633333/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_4575"><img alt="IMG_4575" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/627/22988633333_b1e370411b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23507116262/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_4581"><img alt="IMG_4581" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/575/23507116262_c3734246db_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We have gone out to San Francisco for Thanksgiving many
times throughout the years and it is a blast.
This year was no different! While
in the city we tried some amazing restaurants (<a href="http://statebirdsf.com/" target="_blank">State Bird Provision</a> and Michael
Chiarello’s <a href="http://coquetasf.com/" target="_blank">Coqueta</a>) and did some shopping and a little hiking. I also had my first experience with
Shabu-Shabu, which is a Japanese dish that you cook at your table. It is not often that I try something
completely foreign to me, and I loved it!
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22988633273/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_4596"><img alt="IMG_4596" height="494" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5700/22988633273_465f4482de_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Of course we had a delicious Thanksgiving meal with way too
much food. Hence, the necessary pre-meal
hike.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22988633263/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_4612"><img alt="IMG_4612" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5677/22988633263_cb643c1b94_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22988633203/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_4616"><img alt="IMG_4616" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/618/22988633203_03bdc32a54_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The day after we set off for a weekend in wine country. We visited about 7 or 8 wineries. It was a tough job, but we were up to the
task.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23247762609/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_4304"><img alt="IMG_4304" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5734/23247762609_ce17ae3405_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23615686505/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8060"><img alt="IMG_8060" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/635/23615686505_0dc3db6dd7_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I swear the sun is a different color there and it shines so
bright.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23533294521/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8229"><img alt="IMG_8229" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/591/23533294521_66d0e1ef72_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23533294631/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_3638"><img alt="IMG_3638" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/647/23533294631_bd466a61f4_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23615686675/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_4147"><img alt="IMG_4147" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5689/23615686675_a41a9eda8b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We had so many amazing wines and really enjoyed meeting
people at the wineries and exploring the grounds.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23247762449/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_9778"><img alt="IMG_9778" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/640/23247762449_f69a83178e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23526269912/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_4695"><img alt="IMG_4695" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/767/23526269912_9712d62444_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23247762739/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_0719"><img alt="IMG_0719" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/651/23247762739_87aeacc649_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We will be back!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23507116392/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="12311206_10206809457908862_5067874969705762682_n"><img alt="12311206_10206809457908862_5067874969705762682_n" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/618/23507116392_d8f936ccf5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We all know that the diet goes steadily downhill after
Halloween, and a fresh salad most definitely has its place during that time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21426425179/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1654"><img alt="IMG_1654" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/774/21426425179_651a16b29b_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I love this super simple Arugula and Pea
salad. It has bright herbs, crunchy
peas, peppery arugula, and a super simple light dressing. It is easy to pair with pretty much anything. Perhaps a crisp California white wine?!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/12/wheat-berry-chicken-salad.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Wheat Berry Chicken Salad</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/12/thai-pumpkin-soup.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Thai Pumpkin Soup<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/12/slow-cooker-coq-au-vin.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Slow Cooker Coq Au Vin</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/12/slow-cooker-beef-short-ribs.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Arugula and Pea Salad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/arugula-and-pea-salad" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5 oz. arugula</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup green petite green peas</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup grape tomatoes, halved</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup chopped mint</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup chopped basil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 small shallot, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp Dijon mustard</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb apple cider vinegar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb lemon juice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp honey</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Salt and pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fresh parmesan shavings</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a large bowl toss the arugula, peas, tomatoes, mint, and
basil. In a small bowl whisk the
dressing ingredients (shallot through honey).
Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad (starting with half and add to taste)
and gently toss to coat. Top with a
crack of black pepper, sprinkle of kosher salt, and parmesan shavings.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-40400635266114888812015-11-18T14:54:00.000-06:002015-11-18T14:54:36.031-06:00Apple Tart<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Ice
Cream</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22292014508/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1803"><img alt="IMG_1803" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5791/22292014508_038294c7bf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have been a married woman for 6 whole months! Time is just flying by, and we are having
such a great time. A few random
thoughts after 6 months…..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We love Monday nights.
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I teach Zumba on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, and Thursday is our
regular pre-weekend date night, so Monday nights tend to be a home cooked meal
and some quality couch/DVR/football time.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I never thought I would love Mondays so much.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is super weird having someone pay all of your bills after
being on your own for a decade.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We need more closet space.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chris loves my cat, Molly.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This might not seem like a big deal, but it is a really big deal.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">On National Cat Day (there is a day for
everything) Chris posted this on Facebook.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">She is officially no longer MY cat, and is OUR cat.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23123803295/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="Capture"><img alt="Capture" height="597" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/574/23123803295_278ab7fd09_z.jpg" width="492" /></a></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We need more closet space.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In honor of six months, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDWreqVKZUE&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">here is the video of my amazing husband surprising me at our reception with a dance routine</a>. He’s my favorite.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/23097827436/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="0823Rod-1048M"><img alt="0823Rod-1048M" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/628/23097827436_35a9e0c0ba_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22502660073/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="0822Rod-2925"><img alt="0822Rod-2925" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5707/22502660073_180ac24306_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thanksgiving!! Every food blogger’s favorite holiday. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22292006868/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1815"><img alt="IMG_1815" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5791/22292006868_d796c98c09_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Of course you have to have pumpkin pie (and
pecan pie) on your dessert table, but there is always room for something apple
related, right? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21856980914/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1811"><img alt="IMG_1811" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5809/21856980914_69e7253583_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My family loves our
shared apple pie recipe, but this apple tart is a fun change. It is super simple but still really delicious
and, dare I say, lighter? It is like the
thin crust version of deep dish pizza, but… pie. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22292882209/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1819"><img alt="IMG_1819" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/617/22292882209_56a3ba930c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I used <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/09/tomato-pie.html" target="_blank">my favorite press, no-mess, pie crust recipe</a> for the
base. It is so simple and honestly
better than any roll-out crust I have tried. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22466348442/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1780"><img alt="IMG_1780" height="484" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/566/22466348442_4871ec5bfd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The crust is topped simply with Granny Smith apple slices, sugar, and
butter. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21856995214/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1787"><img alt="IMG_1787" height="473" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/631/21856995214_84db303f51_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After it is baked the entire dessert is brushed with apricot
jam and sprinkled with cinnamon. The jam
is thinned a bit with brandy, or rum, or water if you don’t have those. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22490722411/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1790"><img alt="IMG_1790" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5770/22490722411_7fa2def530_z.jpg" width="501" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I would most definitely pair this with ice cream. Fantastic.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21856967754/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1821"><img alt="IMG_1821" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/580/21856967754_8351e6d526_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/11/thanksgiving-menu.html" target="_blank">Need some Thanksgiving recipes? Well, let me help!<o:p></o:p></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Thanksgiving!</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Apple Tart<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/apple-tart" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Crust:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 ½ cups flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ tsp salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup vegetable oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 Tb milk</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 Granny Smith apples</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 Tb cold butter, cubed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1/3 cup apricot preserves or jelly</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb brandy/rum/water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cinnamon</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. In a large bowl whisk the flour, one teaspoon
sugar, and salt. In a small dish whisk
the vegetable oil and milk until emulsified.
Add the oil mixture to the flour mixture and combine with a fork until
all flour is combined. Press the crust
into a 8-10 inch tart pan with a removable bottom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Peel and core the apples.
Slice the apples into ¼ inch slices and arrange in the crust. Sprinkle the ½ cup sugar evenly over the top
and scatter the cubed butter across the top.
Place the tart pan on a baking sheet to catch any juices. Bake for 40-50 minutes until the crust is
lightly browned and the apples are softened.
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a small bowl add the apricot preserves/jelly with the 2
Tb of liquid. Heat in microwave until
loose, whisk to combine. Brush a layer
over the top of the tart and sprinkle with cinnamon. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-68361097834826667112015-11-11T12:20:00.000-06:002015-11-11T12:20:04.373-06:00Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Pesto Pizza<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing:
Leftover ingredients</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22328298481/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8684"><img alt="IMG_8684" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5736/22328298481_e16504230c_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Meet my new favorite pizza.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22129899898/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8696"><img alt="IMG_8696" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/747/22129899898_8656829999_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So many good things on one crust!! Admittedly, there is some prep work that goes
into this because you are roasting squash and caramelizing onions. I recommend doing big batches of each, and
use them in other dishes. Allow me to
provide some ideas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u><i><b>Roasted Butternut Squash<o:p></o:p></b></i></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/02/butternut-squash-risotto.html" target="_blank">Butternut Squash Risotto <o:p></o:p></a></span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/8495462652/" title="IMG_3632"><img alt="IMG_3632" height="454" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8093/8495462652_3b6d2a2e21_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/11/autumn-salad.html" target="_blank">Autumn Salad</a><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/8412103488/" title="IMG_2544-002"><img alt="IMG_2544-002" height="498" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5235/8412103488_3d5dc2b518_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/01/kale-butternut-squash-and-bacon.html" target="_blank">Kale, Butternut Squash, and Bacon Breakfast Burritos with Spicy Chipotle Sauce</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/10910596756/" title="IMG_9694"><img alt="IMG_9694" height="302" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3773/10910596756_8b026d326f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/11/butternut-squash-and-chickpea-tahini.html" target="_blank">Butternut Squash and Chickpea Tahini Salad<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/8411038565/" title="IMG_2986-002"><img alt="IMG_2986-002" height="446" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5112/8411038565_ed6a33de8b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Caramelized Onions</u></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/11/caramelized-onion-dip.html" target="_blank">Caramelized Onion Dip<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/8412103578/" title="IMG_2372-001"><img alt="IMG_2372-001" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5116/8412103578_c7d205d4c5_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/09/all-purpose-breakfast-casserole.html" target="_blank">All Purpose Breakfast Casserole</a> (squash would be delish in
this too)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/8411178931/" title="IMG_0957-001"><img alt="IMG_0957-001" height="484" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5191/8411178931_1ac01e52d6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/03/customizable-bread-bowl-breakfast.html" target="_blank">Customizable Bread Bowl Breakfast<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/8412110838/" title="IMG_0281-1"><img alt="IMG_0281-1" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5345/8412110838_51cf315fa2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I actually made this pizza because I had already planned on
making Butternut Squash risotto, so I just roasted extra squash. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22328313251/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8681"><img alt="IMG_8681" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/576/22328313251_66041941b2_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You top premade crust with pesto. Store-bought is just fine! I had lots of homemade pesto for this recipe
because my mom and I had just made 10+ batches for the freezer. Her basil plant was legit out of
control. I buy 10 leaves of basil at the
grocery store for $2 and she has a forest of the stuff. I have zero sunshine and the opposite of a
green thumb, so no chance of me growing any myself.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22291959436/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8646"><img alt="IMG_8646" height="478" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5668/22291959436_7fa729f908_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A generous layer of caramelized onions.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21695232714/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8650"><img alt="IMG_8650" height="492" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5743/21695232714_f13d105f49_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">An adorable photobomber.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22317752955/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8653"><img alt="IMG_8653" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5629/22317752955_c8b6db1b62_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A layer of roasted squash.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22130910249/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8654"><img alt="IMG_8654" height="502" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5768/22130910249_eb2d16054e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Top with some cheese...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21694989754/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8661"><img alt="IMG_8661" height="509" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/594/21694989754_742f988f33_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And bake!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22304789952/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_8669"><img alt="IMG_8669" height="511" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/563/22304789952_16d8bd5152_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So stinking good, my friends. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22304782322/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_8677"><img alt="IMG_8677" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/670/22304782322_55d70a983e_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/11/thanksgiving-menu.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Thanksgiving Menu</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/11/grandma-rosies-applesauce.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Grandma Rosie's Applesauce</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/11/apple-cake-with-warm-caramel-sauce.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Apple Cake with Warm Caramel Sauce</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/10/carrot-cake-sandwich-cookies.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Pesto Pizza<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/butternut-squash-caramelized-onion-and-pesto-pizza" target="_blank">Printable Recipe</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 cups peeled, cubed butternut squash</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Salt and pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 onion, thinly sliced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb butter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb brown sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 premade pizza crust</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup pesto (store bought is fine)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 ½ cup shredded mozzarella</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Shredded parmesan, optional</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Toss the squash cubes in a large bowl with
the olive oil, season generously with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven
on a cookie sheet for 40-50 minutes, until the squash is soft. Stir
twice during roasting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">While the squash is roasting, caramelize the onions by
melting the butter in a pan, add the onions and brown sugar, cook until the
onions are golden brown. This should
take about 45 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Top the premade pizza crust evenly with pesto, caramelized
onions, roasted squash, and shredded cheese.
Bake according to crust instructions.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-48057611327923476852015-11-05T14:26:00.000-06:002015-11-05T14:26:26.720-06:00Pumpkin Biscuits with Spicy Honey Butter<span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Soup</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22479662035/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1749"><img alt="IMG_1749" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5810/22479662035_216295a210_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Are you tired of pumpkin recipes yet? Nah, of course not!! That is a silly question. If you like pumpkin recipes you really can’t
get enough of them in the fall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">These biscuits are tasty on their own, but they are next
level good when combined with spicy honey butter. The pumpkin flavor is not overpowering, just a
nice subtle background flavor. It also
makes them a lovely color!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22453661466/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1747"><img alt="IMG_1747" height="479" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/695/22453661466_f4e00d5e8e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When I was in college I was lucky enough to go on an incentive
trip with my parents to Maui. My mom
extended in Honolulu for some meetings with her team, so I was on my own with
my dad and brother. One of the nights we
went to a generic BBQ restaurant in our hotel.
I don’t remember anything other than the cornbread and spicy honey butter. It was so good. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22292836079/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1762"><img alt="IMG_1762" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5736/22292836079_0b3978da31_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">That was many years ago and I still remember
it fondly. I recreated it and have used
this simple butter recipe many times and it is great with cornbread, biscuits,
toast, etc. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22466291742/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1746"><img alt="IMG_1746" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/774/22466291742_cc816fb72c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">While spilling flour (purposefully) all over your counter
and rolling out dough may seem annoying and not worth the work, it is actually
pretty cathartic and enjoyable! <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/09/7-up-biscuits.html" target="_blank">This 7-Up biscuit recipe</a> requires flour on your counter, but no rolling pin. Equally delish!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21856932024/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1753"><img alt="IMG_1753" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/735/21856932024_233e1cea2c_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">These biscuits are perfect alongside a bowl of yummy soup on
a cool fall day. We had it with our
favorite, <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/02/cheeseburger-soup.html" target="_blank">Cheeseburger Soup</a>. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22466279162/in/dateposted-public/" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;" title="IMG_1755"><img alt="IMG_1755" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/738/22466279162_0a30238b9d_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/11/pumpkin-cranberry-petite-scones-with.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Pumpkin Cranberry Petite Scones with Orange Glaze</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/11/pork-chops-and-apples.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Pork Chops and Apples</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/11/tortilla-soup.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Tortilla Soup<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/11/buffalo-chicken-bites.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Buffalo Chicken Bites</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pumpkin Biscuits with Spicy Honey Butter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Adapted by Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing from <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/spiced-pumpkin-biscuits" target="_blank">Cooking Light</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/pumpkin-biscuits-with-spicy-honey-butter" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Biscuits:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 ½ tsp baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ tsp salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5 Tb chilled butter, cut into small pieces</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1/3 cup buttermilk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 Tb honey</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">¾ cup canned 100% pumpkin</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Butter:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5 Tb unsalted butter, softened</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb honey</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Heavy pinch of kosher salt, more to taste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pinch of cayenne pepper, more to taste</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Combine flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie
spice and salt in a large bowl, whisk to combine. Add cubed butter and cut in using a pastry
blender. You can use two knives, but the
blender makes everything so much easier!
It should resemble coarse meal.
In a small bowl whisk the buttermilk and honey until well blended, stir
in canned pumpkin. Add the pumpkin
mixture to the flour and stir until just moistened throughout. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lightly flour a clean kitchen surface and turn out the
dough, knead about 4 times. Using a
floured rolling pin roll the dough until it is about ½ inch thick and in a rectangle
shape. Dust the top of the dough with
flour, fold the dough crosswise into thirds (like folding a piece of paper for
an envelope), roll out again to a ½ inch thick rectangle. Dust the top again with flour, repeat the
folding motion and roll again into a rectangle that is about ½ inch thick. Repeat one last time and roll until it is
about ½ inch thick. Flour a biscuit
cutter (size is up to you) and cut out the dough rounds. Gather up the scraps and roll out and cut out
as many biscuits as possible! Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment
paper. Bake for 10-14 minutes until
golden. Cool on racks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To prepare the butter combined the softened butter, honey,
salt, and cayenne pepper. Taste for
seasonings and adjust. I like it pretty
salty and spicy! Serve on warm biscuits. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-51132713703672508982015-10-23T17:12:00.001-05:002015-10-23T17:12:21.966-05:00Cream Filled Chocolate Cupcakes<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing:
Candy corn topping</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22129888448/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_8712"><img alt="IMG_8712" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5791/22129888448_88568d2db1_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Growing up we didn’t have store bought treats in the
house. When my brothers or I were
offered a Little Debbie at a friend’s house, we were all over it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21694863284/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_8715"><img alt="IMG_8715" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5624/21694863284_b13346e41e_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What we did have at home were amazing
homemade desserts every so often, and those most definitely trumped any Little
Debbie treat. One of my all-time favorites
were Cream Filled Chocolate Cupcakes. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22129585340/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_8745"><img alt="IMG_8745" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/585/22129585340_820ecb527d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh gracious, are these fantastic. My mom got the recipe from a cookbook created
by a Sunday school class at our church, called the Circuit Rider’s
Cookbook. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22129567830/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_8771"><img alt="IMG_8771" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5741/22129567830_04ff8c1d50_z.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As a little background, a
Circuit Rider was a Methodist minister that would ride on horseback from rural church
to rural church to preach the good news.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21694854984/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_8720"><img alt="IMG_8720" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/704/21694854984_da21d205cd_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Well if you know anything about church ladies, you know they
can cook, so this little well-loved cookbook has some real gems in it. You know you have a jackpot recipe when there
are stains all over it!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22328188651/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_8768"><img alt="IMG_8768" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5634/22328188651_b62b3a8d64_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So what we have here are scrumptious from scratch chocolate
cupcakes that are piped full of creamy deliciousness and then iced with chocolate
fudge icing. Little Debbie would be
ashamed to stand next to them. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22130788469/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_8706"><img alt="IMG_8706" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5789/22130788469_50262cd307_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We always seem to make them in the fall and top them off
with a candy corn. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22328207611/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_8717"><img alt="IMG_8717" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/710/22328207611_2a2e36c8f3_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/22328191791/in/dateposted-public/" style="text-align: start;" title="IMG_8756"><img alt="IMG_8756" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5682/22328191791_8a40b3009b_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">They are a surefire family favorite! </span></o:p><br />
<o:p><br /></o:p>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/10/sloppy-joe-dip.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Sloppy Joe Dip</a></span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/10/pumpkin-crisp.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Pumpkin Crisp</a></span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/10/pumpkin-spice-cupcakes-with-cinnamon.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting</a></span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/10/halloween-candy-bark.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Halloween Candy Bark</a></span></o:p></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cream Filled Chocolate Cupcakes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Adapted by Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing from Circuit
Rider's Cookbook and Alice W.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/cream-filled-chocolate-cupcakes" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cupcakes:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 ½ cups flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 cups sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp baking powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1/3 cup cocoa powder</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ tsp salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 eggs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup vegetable oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup buttermilk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp vanilla</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 tsp baking soda</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup hot water</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cream Filling:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1/3 cup milk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2/3 cup shortening</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ tsp salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp vanilla</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup powdered sugar</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fudge Frosting:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb butter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 squares (2 oz) unsweetened chocolate (like Baker’s)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 Tb warm water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 cups powdered sugar</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. For the cupcakes, sift together the flour,
sugar, baking powder, cocoa, and
salt. Add in the eggs, oil, buttermilk,
and vanilla, mix well. In a small bowl
whisk the baking soda into the hot water and combine with the other
ingredients. Mix well. Line a muffin tin with paper liners and fill
2/3 full with the batter. Bake for 15 to
20 minutes until a toothpick comes clean.
Allow to cool completely. Should
make between 30-40 cupcakes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Prepare the cream filling by combining the sugar, milk,
shortening, salt, water, and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer. Beat until creamy. Add in the powdered sugar and beat again
until smooth and combined. Prepare a
piping bag with a pointed tip, fill with cream mixture. Fill cupcakes by poking into the top, you
will see the cupcakes puff up a bit, estimate about a tablespoon of filling in
each.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">For the frosting, in a double boiler, melt the butter and
unsweetened chocolate, blend in the warm water until combined. Stir in the powdered sugar in batches until
smooth. Frost the cupcakes.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-67413067128668040012015-10-06T10:07:00.001-05:002015-10-06T17:29:05.777-05:00Roasted Vegetable Dip and Chicken Pizza<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing:
Golden Home Pizza Crust</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21425320290/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1665"><img alt="IMG_1665" height="452" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5768/21425320290_2c7d6be181_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of my all-time favorite recipes on my blog is this
<a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/10/roasted-vegetable-dip.html" target="_blank">Roasted Vegetable Dip</a>. I have made it
countless times. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/8510827014/" title="IMG_7875-1"><img alt="IMG_7875-1" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8092/8510827014_eef179d82b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A healthy mix of red peppers, red onion, eggplant, garlic,
olive oil, and seasonings are roasted then processed with tomato paste and red
pepper flakes. It is ridiculously
delicious and guilt-free. I have used it as a dip for crackers, vegetables, or
as a spread on crostini or on a grilled cheese sandwich. It is so versatile.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/8509719483/" title="IMG_7856-1"><img alt="IMG_7856-1" height="314" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8518/8509719483_a79d9d1830_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My new favorite use is using it as a pizza
sauce. Start with a pre-baked pizza crust, top it with a
generous spread of the <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/10/roasted-vegetable-dip.html" target="_blank">Roasted Vegetable Dip</a>, cooked chicken, red onion or
shallot, cheese, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It is great as a main course or cut into
smaller pieces for an appetizer.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/20992210013/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1669"><img alt="IMG_1669" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/615/20992210013_797576b44e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I just discovered these <a href="http://www.quakerbakery.com/consumers/pizza-crusts" target="_blank">Golden Home Pizza Crusts</a>. They are super thin and crispy. If you have a pizza stone, use it with these
crusts. The nutritional stats are pretty
great too, especially when you compare it to Chicago deep dish pizza. Egads.
I am not being sponsored in any way by this company, in fact, I have not
been able to find them in my local store so I have to ask my mom to stock up
for me at her grocery. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21426407869/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1675"><img alt="IMG_1675" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5815/21426407869_8129787924_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Make the dip, then make the pizza. You will be so happy you did! I was so happy about it I made this pizza
twice in two days. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/10/grilled-mediterranean-chicken-and.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Grilled Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetable Salad</a></span><br />
<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/10/huli-huli-chicken.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Huli Huli Chicken</a></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
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</div>
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<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/10/lake-house-brownies.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Lake House Brownies (OMG)</a></span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px;">
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</div>
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<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/10/light-pumpkin-cheesecakes.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Light Pumpkin Cheesecakes</a></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Roasted Vegetable Dip and Chicken Pizza<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/roasted-vegetable-dip-and-chicken-pizza" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 premade pizza crust</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/10/roasted-vegetable-dip.html" target="_blank">Roasted Vegetable Dip</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 ½ cups chopped, cooked chicken</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 small red onion, sliced (or shallots)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup mozzarella cheese</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Red pepper flakes</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the oven according to crust directions. If you have a pizza stone, preheat that as
well. Spread the Roasted Vegetable Dip
on the crust, top with chicken, onions or shallots, cheese, and red pepper
flakes to taste. Cook on pizza stone or on oven rack, according to crust directions.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-64418092589976197912015-09-22T10:32:00.001-05:002015-09-22T10:32:19.805-05:00Simple Cucumber and Tomato Salad<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Seeded cucumbers (spoon method)</span><br />
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/20991844533/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1545"><img alt="IMG_1545" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5708/20991844533_4bde4d489e_z.jpg" width="509" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you are lucky enough to have a garden, or perhaps are just
lucky to know someone with a garden who likes to share, you probably have a lot
of cucumbers. In honor of the last day
of summer (waaaa!), here is a super simple cucumber salad.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21424954820/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1539"><img alt="IMG_1539" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/648/21424954820_46b9e8aa05_z.jpg" width="518" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I made this all summer long to serve with anything off the
grill, or alongside of my favorite <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/09/tomato-pie.html" target="_blank">Tomato Pie</a>.
I always use fresh dill, but will throw in fresh basil and mint if I
have access to it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21425148788/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1526"><img alt="IMG_1526" height="484" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/696/21425148788_0b7d78de6a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Garden cucumbers often have a thick, sometimes bitter, skin
and lots of seeds. I like to peel the
cucumber, slice it lengthwise and scrape out the seeds using a teaspoon. If you are feeling motivated and have the
time you can salt the cucumbers in a strainer for 30-45 minutes to drain off
excess water before making the salad, but this is not necessary.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/21621886101/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1535"><img alt="IMG_1535" height="461" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/681/21621886101_4c4884c1c4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Soak up the last day of summer!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/09/un-recipe-files-strawberry-and.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Strawberry and Prosciutto Grilled Bread</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/09/7-up-biscuits.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: 7-Up Biscuits<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/09/candied-bacon-tomato-and-avocado.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Candied Bacon, Tomato and Avocado Sandwich</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/09/grandma-rosies-ice-cream-dessert.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Grandma Rosie’s Ice Cream Dessert</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></o:p></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Simple Cucumber and Tomato Salad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/simple-cucumber-and-tomato-salad" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 large cucumbers, peeled and seeded, roughly chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ pint grape tomatoes, halved</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 shallot, thinly sliced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup sour cream</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb rice vinegar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup chopped fresh dill</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chopped basil and mint, optional</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Salt and pepper, to taste</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a large bowl combine the cut cucumbers, tomatoes, and
shallot. In a small bowl whisk the sour
cream, vinegar, sugar, dill, herbs (optional), and salt and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and stir
gently with a spatula to coat. Serve
immediately.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-72771259194527246002015-09-14T09:50:00.001-05:002015-09-14T09:50:16.445-05:00Grilled Sweet Miso Salmon<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Foil</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14269527240" title="IMG_5447 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5447" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5577/14269527240_13daf592f9_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">About a year ago I started noticing miso recipes all over
the internets. I knew I liked miso. What is not to like about miso soup? It is salty and savory and all sorts of
umami. My knowledge of miso pretty much
ended there. I made a special trip to
Whole Foods to find miso. I was too
proud to ask where it was, so I had a great tour of the store. I did not find it on the shelf with other
Asian foods which is where I was SURE it was going to be. I found random packets of miso soup mix. I stood in front of those googling trying to
figure out if that was, in fact, miso paste.
It was not. During the search I
saw something about the refrigerated section and headed there. At my Whole Foods it was chilling with the
tofu and cheese. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So I found miso paste….. red miso, white miso, mellow white
miso. Eh? I JUST WANT MISO PASTE. I decided to go with white. That seemed innocuous enough. It was a big tub and I had no idea how I
would ever make a dent in it. Guess what
folks? I just bought my second large tub
of miso paste. This stuff is the NUTS!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The first thing I made with it was this simple <a href="http://iamafoodblog.com/miso-coconut-chicken/" target="_blank">Miso Coconut Chicken and Rice dish</a>. It was
fabulous. I started using it in salad dressings,
and mixing it with a little cream cheese to spread on toast for breakfast. I also combined miso with butter and sautéed fresh
corn in it with a little lime juice.
This was based on a dish my brother told me he had at a local
restaurant. Amazing. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14452778171" title="IMG_5438 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5438" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3906/14452778171_cdff913600_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of my favorite uses has been in this Grilled Sweet Miso
Salmon. Miso is mixed with brown sugar,
mustard and rice vinegar and then basted on grilled salmon. I grilled the salmon on foil so it is easy
cleanup and dinner is ready in minutes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14269529920" title="IMG_5414 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5414" height="492" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3877/14269529920_fb67e5911e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I served it with <a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/07/un-recipe-files-grilled-seasoned.html" target="_blank">these super simple grilled seasoned potatoes and brussels sprouts</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14452778621" title="IMG_5436 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5436" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2938/14452778621_326dfc799d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Embrace the miso!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/09/coconut-cream-pie.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Coconut Cream Pie</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/09/traditional-potato-salad.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Traditional Potato Salad</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/09/southwest-salad.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Southwest Salad</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/09/tomato-pie.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Tomato Pie</a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Grilled Sweet Miso Salmon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/grilled-sweet-miso-salmon" target="_blank">Printable Recipe</a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb brown sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb stone ground or Dijon mustard</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb miso paste (I used white)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 Tb rice vinegar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 lb salmon</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the grill to medium high heat. If your salmon has skin place it directly on
a doubled piece of foil. If the salmon
does not have skin spray the foil with cooking spray first. In a small bowl combine the brown sugar,
mustard, miso paste and vinegar. Stir
with a fork or whisk to combine. Slide
the foil and salmon carefully onto the grill.
Brush on the sauce and let the salmon cook until just flaky, 7-15
minutes depending on the thickness of the salmon. If the salmon has skin the
skin will stick to the foil and you can slide the salmon off and throw away the
skin with the foil.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-2155823857516683162015-08-20T10:13:00.000-05:002015-08-20T10:13:49.138-05:00Year Four in Review<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">What a year it has been!
Since my</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/09/year-three-in-review.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;" target="_blank">Year Three in Review post</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> I got engaged and married, gain</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">ed a
cute new roommate, and pretty much had the most incredible year ever. Admittedly, Perfecting the Pairing took a
backseat to wedding planning and my husband, and the number of posts went way
down. I still love this little blog and
love getting new recipes posted. I am
cooking all the time, now I just need to do the rest of it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank you thank you thank you to all my readers and for all of
the positive feedback, encouragement, and sweet comments. I said it last year, and I will say it again,
I truly appreciate every single view this site gets. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Without further ado… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Top ten most viewed posts from year four<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/10/my-perfect-pairing.html" target="_blank">MY Perfect Pairing</a> – There is no recipe here, but there is a
really sweet story about my now husband surprising me with the most amazing
proposal. Ahh! I love that man and I loved that
proposal! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/15409168668" title="DSC_0175"><img alt="DSC_0175" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3940/15409168668_6e3f004a4d_z.jpg" width="613" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/03/impossibly-light-pineapple-whip.html" target="_blank">Impossibly Light Pineapple Whip</a> – There are only three
ingredients in this crazy delicious, healthy dessert. It was the perfect sweet treat during my
pre-wedding diet! It is a dead ringer
for the Dole Pineapple Whip from Disney World.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/16619420775" title="IMG_1365"><img alt="IMG_1365" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8683/16619420775_ff316b3a69_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/01/spaghetti-squash-pizza-casserole.html" target="_blank">Spaghetti Squash Pizza Casserole</a> – All the flavor of pizza,
none of the guilt. This freezes well and
is great to have on hand for a quick dinner.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/16011770770" title="IMG_1056"><img alt="IMG_1056" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7548/16011770770_250bee766e_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/05/lamsinlove-part-2.html" target="_blank">#LamsInLove – Part 2</a> – Pretty much a recap of our wedding. Again, no recipe…. Man, I was
slacking!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/17547906694" title="11062012_10102567208794960_6570654660773164956_n"><img alt="11062012_10102567208794960_6570654660773164956_n" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8780/17547906694_de0646c066_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/10/sloppy-joe-dip.html" target="_blank">Sloppy Joe Dip</a> – Not very pretty, but so so tasty. I find that men tend to love this one. Actually, everyone loves it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14077836913/" title="IMG_0743"><img alt="IMG_0743" height="508" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7079/14077836913_d0e6abc1bc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/10/menu-post-1-huli-huli-chicken.html" target="_blank">Menu Post #1, Huli Huli Chicken</a> – Remember last year when I
said my goal was to have a new section all about menus? That was a cute idea. I did it twice. Ok, goal for year 5! This menu was repeated again multiple times
this summer. It is a crowd pleaser every
time!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/10062446474" title="IMG_7247"><img alt="IMG_7247" height="483" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7451/10062446474_9171469af7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/12/wheat-berry-chicken-salad.html" target="_blank">Wheat Berry Chicken Salad </a>– If you have not tried Wheat
Berries, you are missing out! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14058263044/" title="IMG_0716"><img alt="IMG_0716" height="472" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2906/14058263044_f8b25f528c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/05/lamsinlove.html" target="_blank">#LamsInLove</a> – The Wedding Favor/Escort Card at our wedding
was handmade Sriracha Salt and Citrus Pepper.
This post provides some recipes and tips on how to use it. I think the Sriracha Salt was everyone’s
favorite! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/17167881828" title="IMG_7575"><img alt="IMG_7575" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8700/17167881828_af983bb93d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/09/apple-cider-sangria.html" target="_blank">Apple Cider Sangria</a> – This will be happening again in a
couple months. Perfect for autumn!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/15392849361" title="IMG_6188"><img alt="IMG_6188" height="640" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2950/15392849361_886f13a756_z.jpg" width="468" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/02/cheeseburger-soup.html" target="_blank">Cheeseburger Soup</a> – Comfort food to the max! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a data-context="false" data-flickr-embed="true" data-footer="false" data-header="false" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/16427104520" title="IMG_1240"><img alt="IMG_1240" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8680/16427104520_b7c65d87da_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I can hardly believe I am kicking off year five! #PairingForLife. xoxo<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/09/year-three-in-review.html" target="_blank">Year three in review<o:p></o:p></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/08/year-two-in-review.html" target="_blank">Year two in review<o:p></o:p></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/08/year-one-in-review.html" target="_blank">Year one in review</a></span></b></span></div>
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Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-83832609921279708882015-08-10T09:38:00.002-05:002015-08-10T09:38:25.263-05:00Un-Recipe Files: Warm Mini Pesto Sandwiches<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14705041137" title="IMG_8962 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8962" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3911/14705041137_b79c222551_z.jpg" width="561" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of my favorite summer traditions are TGIF dinner cruises. On Friday evenings we will pull together an easy meal of sandwiches, veggies/chips with hummus/dip, Bing cherries, and an easy portable dessert. Oh, and wine. You must have wine on TGIF cruises! All of this needs to be pulled together in time for sunset on the lake. Add in some good cruising music from Joshua Radin, Amos Lee, Iron and Wine, or Norah Jones and you pretty much have perfection. On a boat.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14868587336" title="Image by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="Image" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5585/14868587336_c9b561345a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We usually make these simple, but deceptively delicious, sandwiches. Start with a small, soft roll. We usually get them straight from the grocery store bakery. Add your favorite deli meat, half a slice of cheese (provolone, cheddar, pepper jack, etc.). Now for the special sauce. Mix up a quick pesto aioli using equal parts of pesto (store-bought is fine) and mayo. Wrap up the sandwiches in a square of foil and bake in a 300 degree oven until the cheese is melty. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14891235342" title="IMG_8957 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8957" height="480" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3926/14891235342_5ca10cb2c0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Plan on two or three per person. They are always a hit!</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/14891568425" title="IMG_8959 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8959" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5572/14891568425_ec91d0e800_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/08/grapefruit-mojitos.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Grapefruit Mojitos</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/08/mini-chile-cheese-corndog-muffins.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Mini Chile Cheese Corndog Muffins</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/08/lemon-trifle-and-garden-woes.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Lemon Trifle</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2011/08/parmesan-thyme-crackers.html" target="_blank">Four years ago on Perfecting the Pairing (My very first recipe post!): Parmesan Thyme Crackers</a></span></div>
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Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-19367747583872839572015-07-28T15:47:00.001-05:002015-07-28T15:47:35.591-05:00Simple Fruit Dip<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing:
Summer Fruit</span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18745513775/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1480"><img alt="IMG_1480" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/456/18745513775_b23febd8da_z.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This recipe came to be because of a cooking accident. I liked it so much that I repeated the
accident many times! It started because
I had a surplus of <a href="http://www.barefootcontessa.com/recipes.aspx?RecipeID=942&S=0" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Stewed Rhubarb and Red Berries</a>. Her recipe says it serves 6, but I found that
it had 12 or more servings, so I was looking for a new way to use some of the
delicious stewed fruit. I decided to try
a trifle with angel food cake. I layered
cake cubes, the fruit, and a luscious white concoction I came up with, then
repeat. It was a scrumptious dessert!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18122880754/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1445"><img alt="IMG_1445" height="441" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/356/18122880754_8d5b93e91a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The angel food cake was small, and of course I didn’t have a
full batch of fruit, so when I finished the trifle I had a surplus of this delicious
creamy concoction. What to do? I tried dipping fruit in it and decided that this
trifle component was actually pretty amazing on its own. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18719214206/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1459"><img alt="IMG_1459" height="640" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/365/18719214206_058fc2b955_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It is embarrassingly simple with just three ingredients.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18747954001/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1471"><img alt="IMG_1471" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/428/18747954001_64ab49f39b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Whisk them up and you have an incredible
fruit dip that makes a fruit platter really special. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <o:p></o:p></span><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18747950921/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1477"><img alt="IMG_1477" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/260/18747950921_a26c2d5d4f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/07/special-special-k-bars.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Special, Special K Bars</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/07/worlds-best-chocolate-layer-cake.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: World's Best Chocolate Layer Cake</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/07/grandma-marges-fruit-dessert.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Grandma Marge's Fruit Dessert</a></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></o:p></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fruit Dip<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/simple-fruit-dip" target="_blank">Printable Recipe<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 can, 14 oz, sweetened condensed milk (can use fat free)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 container, 6 oz, vanilla yogurt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 container, 8 oz, cool whip (can use fat free)</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Combine all ingredients in a bowl, whisk to combine. Serve with fruit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-39235687517608834642015-07-09T11:29:00.003-05:002015-07-09T11:29:29.405-05:00Caesar Pesto Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Yogurt based Caesar dressing</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18391179768" title="IMG_1404 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1404" height="427" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/359/18391179768_d173a5d33d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pasta salads can be so bad.
Rarely, rarely do I like pasta salads from restaurants or grocery store
delis. They all have the same odd taste
and are just not worth the calories.
There ARE good pasta salads out there though! I don’t want to pat myself on the back, but
this one is really good. I think I just did it anyway.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18392792719" title="IMG_1407 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1407" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8829/18392792719_829dd5d9b2_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Grape tomatoes, whole button mushrooms, and sweet onions are
grilled then tossed with pasta, arugula, and a super simple dressing.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18552565676" title="IMG_1405 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1405" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/503/18552565676_7f061c48d5_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The dressing is made with store-bought Caesar dressing. <a href="http://www.bolthouse.com/product/caesarparmigiano" target="_blank">I used this yogurt variety so it was a little lower in calories and fat</a>. The dressing
is whisked with pesto and fresh lemon juice.
If you happen to have an abundance of homemade pesto stocked in your
freezer (I’m so jealous) use that, but feel free to use store-bought pesto
here.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18391172018" title="IMG_1411 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1411" height="475" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/335/18391172018_0b328b379c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We ate this while it was still slightly warm. YUM.
It was also great leftover chilled.
It would be fantastic with grilled chicken or steak for a full
meal. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/18578959365" title="IMG_1393 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1393" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8874/18578959365_7eda5c830e_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/07/un-recipe-files-avocado-and-strawberry.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Avocado and Strawberry Toast with Feta and Honey</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/07/thai-peanut-pasta-salad.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Thai Peanut Pasta Salad</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/07/grapefruit-margaritas.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Grapefruit Margaritas</a></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Caesar Pesto Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/caesar-pesto-pasta-salad-with-grilled-vegetables" target="_blank">Printable Recipe</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 pint grape tomatoes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">16 oz button mushrooms, stems removed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 sweet onion, cut into one inch pieces</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb olive oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Salt and pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, farfalle, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup Caesar dressing (<a href="http://www.bolthouse.com/product/caesarparmigiano" target="_blank">like this</a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 Tb basil pesto (store-bought is fine)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Juice of one lemon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 oz arugula</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the grill to a medium high heat. Toss the tomatoes, mushrooms, and onion in a
large bowl with olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Pour into a greased grill basket and grill
until the tomatoes just begin to burst and the onions start to char, about
15-25 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">While the veggies are grilling cook the pasta according to
package instructions, drain. In a small
bowl combine the Caesar dressing, pesto, and lemon juice, whisk to combine. Toss the pasta with the grilled vegetables
and dressing until coated. Add in the
arugula and stir lightly. Serve slightly
warm, room temperature, or cold. Great
with grilled chicken or steak!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-65903591723042188742015-06-16T09:58:00.001-05:002015-06-16T09:58:52.741-05:00Peaches and Cream Dessert<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing: Bowl
and spoon</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/15236120719" title="photo+1 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="photo+1" height="640" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2941/15236120719_7b117b2c4a_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Each summer my best friend makes the journey to the lake with
her sweet family for our yearly get together.
They are the best guests, always jumping up to help, bringing food,
etc. Last summer I asked Jill to bring a dessert and she said
her husband requested her sopapilla cheesecake.
Oh goodness, was this thing delicious.
It was a super simple dessert of crescent rolls, cheesecake filling and
a topping of cinnamon and sugar. All
good things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Around the same time my parents received a large delivery of
peaches. I was using peaches in
everything…. Peach salsa, peach cobbler, on cereal, in yogurt, etc. I decided to try adding them to the sopapilla
cheesecake. It ended up being a very
good idea! I made a few other
alterations to the recipe like reducing the butter and sugar in the
topping. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/15484848590" style="text-align: start;" title="IMG_6131 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6131" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7476/15484848590_756139c2f5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/15646691216" title="IMG_6132 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6132" height="521" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8592/15646691216_8d7d4d816b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The original version served up nicely in perfect pieces, the
peach version did not. It was more of a
bowl and spoon situation. It was almost
like a peach cobbler, but with a creamy cheesecake-y filling. Yum. Perfect summer dessert.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/15236205760" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" title="photo 2 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="photo 2" height="640" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2949/15236205760_c58e3560b6_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/06/key-lime-pie-with-pretzel-studded-crust.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Key Lime Pie with Pretzel Studded Crust and Coconut Whipped Cream</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/06/quinoa-produce-salad.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Quinoa Produce Salad</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/06/fathers-day.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Father's Day Recipes</a></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Peaches and Cream Dessert<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing (based on this recipe from
<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Sopapilla-Cheesecake-Pie/" target="_blank">AllRecipes</a>)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/peaches-and-cream-dessert" target="_blank">Printable Recipe</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 cans (8 oz each) crescent rolls</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese (light is fine),
softened</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup white sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp vanilla</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 large peaches, peeled and cut into large chunks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 Tb sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sprinkle of fruit fresh (optional)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">4 Tb butter, melted</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">¼ cup sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">¾ tsp cinnamon</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking
spray. Spread out one can of crescent
rolls in the pan so it covers the bottom.
Pinch together the seams. In a
mixing bowl combine the softened cream cheese, one cup sugar and vanilla. Mix until completely combined. Pour over the crescent rolls and spread to
distribute evenly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a medium bowl toss the peaches, two tablespoons sugar,
and the fruit fresh, if using. Pour the
peaches evenly over the cream cheese mixture.
Gently place the remaining crescent rolls across the top, pinching
seams. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In a small bowl combing the melted butter, ¼ cup sugar, and
cinnamon. Stir well and drizzle over the
top of the rolls. Bake for 30 minutes,
until the rolls have browned on top.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8773705576043151525.post-72010704188866327242015-06-08T10:52:00.004-05:002015-06-08T10:52:40.434-05:00Spaghetti Squash Frittata<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Perfect Pairing:
Leftover spaghetti squash</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/16406829847" title="IMG_1231 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1231" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8610/16406829847_a122e136b0_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One food trend I am totally on board with is spaghetti
squash. My first post of 2015 was this
<a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2015/01/spaghetti-squash-pizza-casserole.html" target="_blank">Spaghetti Squash Pizza Casserole recipe</a>.
I froze half of the recipe and was thrilled to have it on hand when I
was in the midst of wedding planning and needed a healthy and filling
meal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Next time you have leftover spaghetti squash try this
frittata recipes. Actually, just cook up
some spaghetti squash so you can make this!
It was such a great breakfast, served up beautifully, and was delicious
reheated. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/16406829257" title="IMG_1233 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1233" height="427" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8657/16406829257_aa9052989e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">There are a few different ways of cooking a spaghetti squash. I definitely prefer roasting them and
will usually do two at once to make sure I have plenty on hand. To roast it, poke the spaghetti squash with a
fork 10 times. Microwave on high for 6 minutes (this softens the squash
and makes it easier to cut in half). Cut the squash in half lengthwise
and scoop out the seeds. Place cut side down on a baking sheet and roast
for 50-60 minutes at 400 degrees, or until completely tender, then you can
shred it with a fork. <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Spaghetti-Squash-in-Microwave" target="_blank">You can also cook it in the microwave</a>. I use this
method if I just don’t have the time for roasting. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/15991938574" title="IMG_1192 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1192" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8683/15991938574_d0e474ceda_z.jpg" width="454" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cooked spaghetti squash acts as the crust of the
frittata. Try to remove any excess
moisture in the squash, this is especially important if you cooked it in the
microwave. You can either squeeze it in
a clean kitchen towel, pat with paper towels, or press into the bottom of a
strainer.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/15991941144" title="IMG_1168 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1168" height="519" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8593/15991941144_f37ec8a7f7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The filling is a mixture of sautéed vegetables, eggs, egg
whites, chicken sausage, and cheese. This
recipe is totally customizable so if you don’t like mushrooms, leave them
out. If you have kale on hand, throw it
in. Would rather use swiss cheese than
shredded cheddar? Brilliant. Do it.
I think I used a roasted red pepper chicken sausage, <a href="http://www.alfrescoallnatural.com/products/dinner-fully-cooked-chicken-sausage?f=roastedpepperasiago" target="_blank">like this</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/15991939544" title="IMG_1186 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1186" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8667/15991939544_fd98752dce_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have an exorbitant amount of spices in my kitchen, and I
love all of them. I used some crazy
combination of Italian/Za’atar/Berbere/Jamaican Jerk in this (not really, but
also not far off) but you could use whatever you have on hand, whether it is
Mrs. Dash or Cajun. Just be sure to
check if it has salt so you can adjust that accordingly.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/16427106690" title="IMG_1211 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1211" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8631/16427106690_f3628daaa2_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One other thing to note…. Yes, this does have cottage cheese
in it. No, you cannot tell there is
cottage cheese in it. It just adds a
little creaminess and bulk, but won’t freak out cottage cheese haters. They’re out there.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92548386@N07/16614120385" title="IMG_1199 by PerfectingThePairing, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1199" height="427" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8652/16614120385_9bf44d87c0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2014/06/chocolate-and-banana-overnight-french.html" target="_blank">One year ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Chocolate and Banana Overnight French Toast</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2013/06/raisin-bran-muffins.html" target="_blank">Two years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Raisin Bran Muffins</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.perfectingthepairing.com/2012/06/garlic-and-herb-cheese-crostini-with.html" target="_blank">Three years ago on Perfecting the Pairing: Garlic and Herb Cheese Crostini with Summer Tomato Sauce</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spaghetti Squash Frittata<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lindsay at Perfecting the Pairing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/perfectingthepairing/spaghetti-squash-frittata" target="_blank">Printable Recipe</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 shallots, chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 red bell pepper, roughly chopped</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">8 oz sliced mushrooms</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ tsp garlic salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">3 eggs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">¾ cup egg whites (or egg substitute)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 cup cottage cheese (I used 1%)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp preferred seasoning (Mrs. Dash, Italian, Cajun, Jerk,
etc.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ tsp salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pepper, to taste</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">2 pre-cooked chicken sausage links, sliced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">½ cup shredded cheese (whatever you prefer or have on hand)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 ½ cups cooked spaghetti squash (about half of a
small/medium squash)</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat, coat
with cooking spray. Add the chopped
shallot, red bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms.
Cook until the vegetables start to soften. Add the garlic salt and season with
additional salt and pepper to taste. Set
cooked vegetables aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">While the vegetables are cooking whisk the whole eggs, egg
whites, cottage cheese, preferred seasoning, salt, and pepper (to taste) until
combined. Fold in the sliced chicken
sausage, shredded cheese, and the cooked vegetables. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spray a pie plate with cooking spray. Squeeze out excessive moisture from the
squash in paper towels or press in the bottom of a strainer. Pat the squash evenly around the plate and up
the sides. Season to taste with salt and
pepper. Pour the egg and vegetable
mixture into the crust. Bake at 400 for
45-55 minutes, until the eggs are cooked through and the edges start to
brown. Allow to sit for at least 10
minutes before cutting. Great reheated!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Perfecting the Pairinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14877480222917797454noreply@blogger.com4