New in “Cocktail Hour Buzz,” July 22-July 28, 2022

New Salon every Friday – and you’re invited

C’mon in and help yourself to tasty resources

Hosted by Barbara J Nosek

 Cocktail Hour Buzz 

sundowner snacks, drinks, chat, and . . .

whenever I can, related resources & goodies on Amazon

whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

{links within my items go to the sources shown in red – any links underneath items take you to Amazon unless otherwise indicated, and then only ones with the lock icon}

♦♦♦  Don’t be frightened when I suggest as a great party dish . . . sushi. First, as you can see, no wrapping and rolling here. Second, while the prep does call for raw fish, pretty sure the sushi police won’t be showing up if you use only cooked. Like I did – and no knocks on my door! We’ll call it sushi-esque. The style of this particular prep is called Chirashi Sushi, with all the pretty goodies served on a bed of sushi rice.

Also in the good column, this one comes from legendary chef, Jacques Pepin, who I recently saw prepare the dish on his “Heart & Soul” show on PBS/Create. Finding a direct source for the recipe proved elusive, but you can access it on the Pinterest page linked above, and then once there clicking on the recipe name. Meanwhile you’ll find other possibilities just below.  PBS member tv station KQED

Jacques Pepin’s “Heart & Soul” show on PBS/Create

Jacques Pepin’s cookbooks    Jacques Pepin’s DVDs

Youtube video of Jacques Pepin making Chirashi Sushi from PBS/KLRN

Chirashi sushi recipes on Google

21 Recipes for sushi without raw fish on Spoon University

Hmmm, can order online? Not sure how that works but here it is . . .

Chirashi sushi on Amazon

♦♦♦  Wine in the glass . . . and on the plate? Well, not all by itself but rather as a flavor-enhancer in these 17 Simply Delicious Red Wine Recipes. Watch it go to work as a marinade for short ribs, poaching liquid for eggs, cooking liquid for pasta, sauce for veal chops, glaze for lamb chops, secret ingredient for chocolate snack cake, and on and on. As a bonus, many of the recipe pages have links to even more goodies.  Food & Wine

♦♦♦  So, in conjunction with an item on the our 06.10.22 Salon on the beer cocktail Shandy, we included a bonus link for Beer & Food Matching. Now we’ve taken a closer look at this chart and it is quite interesting. The left hand column lists the major types of beers and then the next three columns gives the ideal kinds of companion foods in the categories of savories, cheese, and dessert.  Rounding out the helpful information, recommended glassware and serving temp.

As just one example, Imperial Stout 1} Easily overpowers most main dishes, but stands up to foie gras, smoked goose, 2} Long-aged cheese: Gouda, Parmesan or cheddar, 3} Dark chocolate truffles, chocolate raspberry mousse cake. Then an image of a goblet style glass, and 10–13 °C/50–55 °F.  Brewers Association

BrewersAssociation.org

Some classy, some fun, one even beer-can-shaped, assortments too . . .

Beer glassware, 4 stars and up

♦♦♦  However much we may like to bake, in summer not so much. Which makes all the more welcome these 35 No-Bake Desserts. Citrus, seasonal fruit, ice cream, chocolate, caramel, nuts, even no-bake cheesecake all come to the party. One has a touch of spirits, and some are quite portable, including the Mamie Eisenhower fudge, peach buttermilk popsicles and triple chocolate milkshake.  Southern Living

No-bake cookbooks {including some for kids}

Want to join the Buzz? Enter “Buzz” in the Subject line – sign whatever way you want to be identified

Click here to email your comments, questions, links to fave recipes, or?

STUFF FOR COOKS

Find t-shirts, mugs, dvds, gift collections, plus top chef items, cookbooks

CS Marketplace Directory

♦  ♦  ♦

Appreciate anytime you can visit affiliate partners, linked below or in features above

Amazon

Click link above for Amazon homepage, Below for Echo Show, Echo Dots, Echo Studio, Especially for Kids – 

Browse Amazon Echo styles right here – all a foodster’s dream resource 

Zazzle

Click link above for Zazzle homepage, Below for CS-Designed, Zazzle-Crafted Items {direct Zazzle links on these pages}

Food Lovers T-Shirts page here on CS   Food Lover Mug page here on CS

ETC

Want to be among the first to know about new Salons?

Easy! Just put “Preview List”  in the Subject line, and email me at the link shown above for comments & questions

Looking for something in CS?

Use Search, Archives, Categories OR email me at the same link above with “CooksSalon” in the Subject line

Note

All transactions are solely between the buyer and linked supplier

Cook with passion and a party spirit, whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

All pages ©2022 CooksSalon.com

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin

July 8-July 14, 2022, New in “Cocktail Hour Buzz”

New Salon every Friday – and you’re invited

C’mon in and help yourself to tasty resources

Hosted by Barbara J Nosek

 Cocktail Hour Buzz 

sundowner snacks, drinks, chat, and . . .

whenever I can, related resources & goodies on Amazon

whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

{links within my items go to the sources shown in red – any links underneath items take you to Amazon unless otherwise indicated, and then only ones with the lock icon}

♦♦♦  Look what just three ingredients can do. Unrolled and slightly flattened crescent roll dough is cut into squares, 3-Ingredient Bacon-Guacamole Crescent Cups lightly pressed into muffin cups, baked until golden. The remaining two ingredients in this prep add up to the title, Bacon and Guacamole Crescent Cups, and to a most tasty result.

In this case it’s store-bought guac but no one’s going to complain if you go past three and make your own. And of course all you creative CS-ers will find so many tasty and colorful ways to fill up those adorable cups.  Pillsbury

Photo from Pillsbury site

Other crescent rolls recipes from Pillsbury

Pillsbury cookbooks

♦♦♦  It looks like the new kid in town these days is Kava. A cup of Kava tea. Or a can of Kava drink. Or an alcohol-free Kava cocktail. The root-based beverage, a long-time favorite in the Pacific Islands, is trending here and especially among the younger set but its reputation as a stress reliever, muscle relaxant and sleep aid may hold appeal for all ages. Further evidence of the Kava wave is the emergence now of bars based solely on this specialty beverage. Despite its growing popularity, checking with your doc first is strongly recommended, especially if taking any Rx. Thanks to CS-er BLV for sending the link.  New York Post

And this story in Rolling Stone    Kava alcohol-free cocktail recipes on google

What google has found about about the safety of Kava    Kava products on Amazon

♦♦♦  One of our best ever recipes was featured last year, reprised here not only because it’s such a crowd pleaser but also as a no-bake prep it’s perfect as a summer indulgence. It was actually Alexa that brought to our attention this No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake. Vying for the richness trophy, the melted chocolate chip layer vs the peanut butter/confectioners sugar tier.

Would certainly be good as is. But just to gussy it up a bit, melted another 1/4 cup of chips to drizzle overall.

Btw, I cut this recipe in half and made it in a deep dish pie plate. Used semisweet chips but think bittersweet could work well too. Also, ran both layers through the food processor so they would turn out silky smooth. Note that it needs fridge time in the process and afterward.

And now I’m wondering, hmmm, how would this be made into bite size treats in a mini muffin pan (???)  Tasty

Now for those who prefer their choc/pb treats instead showing up on the doorstep . . .

Chocolate peanut butter goodies on Amazon

♦♦♦  Are you burgundy-curious? We came upon a magnum of information on this wine that The Wine Society describes in such terms as “Intensely fragrant . . . medium-bodied . . . elegant palate redolent of cherries.” In “Everything You Need to Know About Burgundy,” you’ll get all smart about identity, origins, taste, pairing, top selections, collectability, and even why you should drink it.  Food & Wine

The Wine Society

Want to join the Buzz? Enter “Buzz” in the Subject line – sign whatever way you want to be identified

Click here to email your comments, questions, links to fave recipes, or?

STUFF FOR COOKS

Find t-shirts, mugs, dvds, gift collections, plus top chef items, cookbooks

CS Marketplace Directory

♦  ♦  ♦

Appreciate anytime you can visit affiliate partners, linked below or in features above

Amazon

Click link above for Amazon homepage, Below for Echo Show, Echo Dots, Echo Studio, Especially for Kids – 

Browse Amazon Echo styles right here – all a foodster’s dream resource 

Zazzle

Click link above for Zazzle homepage, Below for CS-Designed, Zazzle-Crafted Items {direct Zazzle links on these pages}

Food Lovers T-Shirts page here on CS    Food Lover Mug page here on CS

ETC

Want to be among the first to know about new Salons?

Easy! Just put “Preview List”  in the Subject line, and email me at the link shown above for comments & questions

Looking for something in CS?

Use Search, Archives, Categories OR email me at the same link above with “CooksSalon” in the Subject line

Note

All transactions are solely between the buyer and linked supplier

Cook with passion and a party spirit, whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

All pages ©2022 CooksSalon.com

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin

New in “Cocktail Hour Buzz,” June17-June 23, 2022

New Salon every Friday – and you’re invited

C’mon in and help yourself to tasty resources

Hosted by Barbara J Nosek

 Cocktail Hour Buzz 

sundowner snacks, drinks, chat, and . . .

whenever I can, related resources & goodies on Amazon

whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

{links within my items go to the sources shown in red – any links underneath items take you to Amazon unless otherwise indicated, and then only ones with the lock icon}

♦♦♦  Well who wouldn’t be giving this a woohoo upon finding it on the snack table. Crispy Twisty Bacon. Sunny Anderson made this tempter on a recent episode of The Kitchen, seasoning the tight spirals with brown sugar, thyme, and spices. All you creative CS-ers will likely come up with your own variations. When I saw this I immediately thought of it as perfect for one of our special brunch editions. But then Katie Lee noted it would be great for cocktail hour. Yes!  Food Network

The episode is called, The Kitchen’s Take on Trends

FN page for that episode

Youtube demo with a flip tip    Youtube demo for air fryer

Other Twisted Bacon recipes on google

 

♦♦♦  We just never know. Valerie Bertinelli, who seemingly just has it all, in fact has dealt with personal struggles pretty much all her life. In her memoir, “Enough Already,” she takes us along on her journey of two progressions. First from Hollywood star to Food Network star. Second, her determined steps toward finally declaring that title.

In her own words, “As I have redefined my relationship with food over the past decade – first with my trip to Italy, then by writing a cookbook, and then with the tv series – I have redefined my life and reconnected with values I consider important.” Btw, recipes too, and we’ll be making her famous chocolate cake when baking season returns.  Amazon

Valerie’s cookbooks

Valerie’s DVDs – fitness, movies, tv

Valerie’s show page on Food Network

♦♦♦   In our 05.27.22 Salon we featured Ocean Spray’s crab, cranberry and cream cheese appetizers, served in mini phyllo shells. Those snacks use such bitsy amounts of ingredients that I had leftover shells, cream cheese, and cranberry too, and decided to put them to use in an easy and pretty dessert plate. For some I beat cranberry and cream cheese till smooth, topped with reserved cranberry. For others I beat the cream cheese with a little juice from mandarin oranges, finished with halves of the mandarins. One important thing to note is that for cream fillings, or similar, you really want to do this as close to service as possible, as the shells can eventually go soft.  CS

Athens, who makes the shells I use has literally a whole book of recipes on their site

Easy, Entertaining Recipes

♦♦♦  Ever have an upside down martini {spilled ones don’t count}? The Who and the What came out in a chat with Bobby Flay on CNN in advance of the network’s special on Julia Child. He was recalling having lunch with Ms Child when she ordered that libation 🍸 and he learned it’s an inversion of the classic ingredients, meaning reversing the measures for gin and vermouth. Now I could be wrong but I’m pretty sure while the next question was being asked he said almost under his breath, 4 or 5 of them. Cheers Julia, hope you’re enjoying a heavenly golden fountain of endless upside down tinis.  Julia Child

It looks like you can watch a rerun of the documentary here

Julia Child books

Bobby Flay’s page on Food Network

Want to join the Buzz? Enter “Buzz” in the Subject line – sign whatever way you want to be identified

Click here to email your comments, questions, links to fave recipes, or?

STUFF FOR COOKS

Find t-shirts, mugs, dvds, gift collections, plus top chef items, cookbooks

CS Marketplace Directory

♦  ♦  ♦

Appreciate anytime you can visit affiliate partners, linked below or in features above

Amazon

Click link above for Amazon homepage, Below for Echo Show, Echo Dots, Echo Studio, Especially for Kids – 

Browse Amazon Echo styles right here – all a foodster’s dream resource 

Zazzle

Click link above for Zazzle homepage, Below for CS-Designed, Zazzle-Crafted Items {direct Zazzle links on these pages}

Food Lovers T-Shirts page here on CS    Food Lover Mug page here on CS

ETC

Want to be among the first to know about new Salons?

Easy! Just put “Preview List”  in the Subject line, and email me at the link shown above for comments & questions

Looking for something in CS?

Use Search, Archives, Categories OR email me at the same link above with “CooksSalon” in the Subject line

Note

All transactions are solely between the buyer and linked supplier

Cook with passion and a party spirit, whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

All pages ©2022 CooksSalon.com

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin

New in “Cocktail Hour Buzz,” May 20-May 26, 2022

Continue reading »

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin

March 11-March 17, 2022

New Salon every Friday – and you’re invited

C’mon in and help yourself to tasty resources

Hosted by Barbara J Nosek

 Cocktail Hour Buzz 

sundowner snacks, drinks, chat, and . . .

whenever I can, related resources & goodies on Amazon

whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

{any links under these items take you right to Amazon unless otherwise indicated – and then only ones with the lock icon}

♦♦♦  This magazine world guru has spoken. And the word is, these are the “Best Pinot Grigios and Pinot Gris to Buy Right Now.” Happily the story goes even beyond the recommendations to talk about the fact that though both come from the same grape and have similarities, there are also some nuanced differences in style. Pairing ideas too for each.  Food & Wine

♦♦♦  These bars not only stand up to being cut up into candy size pieces – they pretty much are candy. Favorite Chocolate Caramel Nut Bars. The fact that it starts with German Chocolate cake mix sure doesn’t hurt. Commenters loved the taste, ease of prep, and travel-worthiness, adding up a 5-star rating. All in all, a great, and likely very welcome, addition to the sweet side of the snack table.  Kraft Foods

{photo from Kraft site}

More good stuff from Kraft

♦♦♦   If you like sauerkraut and corned beef, just wait till you see how they come together in an Irish-esque appetizer. The title ingredients cozy up to sour cream, garlic, and a whole bunch of tasty seasonings in this Sauerkraut Corned Beef Dip. Serve with rye or pumpernickel cocktail bread of crackers, maybe rye crackers. Commenters are pretty uniform in praise of, easy recipe, great taste, also noting the rapid disappearing act it seems to perform every time. The recipe is credited to Betty Bowdren.  Food Network via Alexa

Browse all Amazon Echo styles right here

♦♦♦  On Food Network, Giada just mentioned how much she loves having a party in the kitchen, which made me recall how many times my get-togethers indeed ended up right there. Yours too? Now I already have decorations in the kitchen, colorful trivets, a small poster, a large artsy cookbook atop the fridge, a “Barbara’s Kitchen” sign. But wowsie, wait till you see the fabulous kitchen decor, 4 star & up we all could add. Prints, plaques, painted cutting boards, hanging baskets, key holders, themed clocks, sculptures, fanciful wall decor galore. I particularly like these pretty Mason jar sconces.  Amazon

All kitchen decor on Amazon

Want to join the Buzz? Enter “Buzz” in the Subject line – sign whatever way you want to be identified

Click here to email your comments, questions, links to fave recipes, or?

STUFF FOR COOKS

Find t-shirts, mugs, dvds, gift collections, plus top chef items, cookbooks    

CS Marketplace Directory

♦  ♦  ♦

Appreciate anytime you can visit affiliate partners, linked below or in features above

Amazon

Click link above for Amazon homepage, Below for Echo Show, Echo Dots, Echo Studio, Especially for Kids – 

Browse Amazon Echo styles right here – all a foodster’s dream resource 

Zazzle

Click link above for Zazzle homepage, Below for CS-Designed, Zazzle-Crafted Items {direct Zazzle links on these pages}

Food Lovers T-Shirts page here on CS    Food Lover Mug page here on CS

ETC

Want to be among the first to know about new Salons?

Easy! Just put “Preview List”  in the Subject line, and email me at the link shown above for comments & questions

Looking for something in CS?

Use Search, Archives, Categories OR email me at the same link above with “CooksSalon” in the Subject line

Note

All transactions are solely between the buyer and linked supplier

Cook with passion and a party spirit, whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

All pages ©2022 CooksSalon.com

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin

“Cocktail Hour Buzz,” March 4-March 10, 2022

New Salon every Friday – and you’re invited

C’mon in and help yourself to tasty resources

Hosted by Barbara J Nosek

 Cocktail Hour Buzz 

sundowner snacks, drinks, chat, and . . .

whenever I can, related resources & goodies on Amazon

whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

{any links under these items take you right to Amazon unless otherwise indicated – and then only ones with the lock icon}

♦♦♦  Move over cheeseboard. Well, as it turns out, not entirely. But the thing is, mushrooms are the star of this show. They repose in a tasty marinade center stage, go all season-y atop goat cheese crostini, and join some colorful veggies on skewers. Filling out this Mushroom Grazing Board are olives, deli meats, hummus, cukes, crackers and, yes, cheese. As always, of course, you can add your own creative touch to the mix. More tasty ideas linked below  Mushroom Council

More mushroom appetizers from the Council

Meanwhile, AllRecipes guides us on cleaning, prepping & storing mushrooms in this video

♦♦♦  How many ways could you serve these guys? Pretzel Shortbread Sticks! Dip in hot fudge, caramel, fruit preserves. Or, skip the chocolate tipping & go savory with peanut butter, hummus, beer & cheese dip. Demerara sugar is a sprinkle option, and in an alternate recipe it was listed instead of brown sugar in the main mix. The raw sugars just seem to have a richer taste – if you want to go to “class” on this interesting sweet stuff, see the link below. Food Network

Free online demerara sugar MasterClass

Beer & Cheese Dips on AllRecipes

♦♦♦  Do you know how to make a Golden Margarita? No? Well, here you go. And just how good does this description sound – “These cocktails are smooth, with sweet and sour flavors in perfect balance.” It uses all fresh ingredients which led to this addendum to the recipe – “Seriously, step away from the mix and give this drink a try. You’ll never go back.”  FoodTalkDaily

Did you know this? Patron has introduced a Chairman’s Reserve, 100% Extra Añejo, and note that it comes with some purchasing requirements

And for that you’re going to want to know from liquor.com . . .

What is an NFT?

♦♦♦   Well here’s a yummy for the snack table. And more good news, it calls for 15 min prep time & 5 min cook time . . . and your kitchen likely already has the ingredients. What is it? Popcorn Shrimp ! And the commenters give it a solid 5 🍤🍤🍤🍤🍤 {OK,  stars}.  AllRecipes

Want to join the Buzz? Enter “Buzz” in the Subject line – sign whatever way you want to be identified

Click here to email your comments, questions, links to fave recipes, or?

STUFF FOR COOKS

Find t-shirts, mugs, dvds, gift collections, plus top chef items, cookbooks

CS Marketplace Directory

♦  ♦  ♦

Appreciate anytime you can visit affiliate partners, linked below or in features above

Amazon

Click link above for Amazon homepage, Below for Echo Show, Echo Dots, Echo Studio, Especially for Kids – 

Browse Amazon Echo styles right here – all a foodster’s dream resource 

Zazzle

Click link above for Zazzle homepage, Below for CS-Designed, Zazzle-Crafted Items {direct Zazzle links on these pages}

Food Lovers T-Shirts page here on CS    Food Lover Mug page here on CS

ETC

Want to be among the first to know about new Salons?

Easy! Just put “Preview List”  in the Subject line, and email me at the link shown above for comments & questions

Looking for something in CS?

Use Search, Archives, Categories OR email me at the same link above with “CooksSalon” in the Subject line

Note

All transactions are solely between the buyer and linked supplier

Cook with passion and a party spirit, whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

All pages ©2022 CooksSalon.com

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin

This week’s Cocktail Hour Buzz in CooksSalon, Feb 4-Feb 10, 2022

New Salon every Friday – and you’re invited

C’mon in and help yourself to tasty resources

Hosted by Barbara J Nosek

 Cocktail Hour Buzz

sundowner snacks, drinks, chat, and . . .

whenever I can, related resources & goodies on Amazon

whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

{links below items take you right to Amazon unless otherwise indicated}

♦♦♦  Hooray for this complete blueprint for your game day get-together. It’s from “Giada Entertains,” and though a re-run it’s timeless in terms of the festive suggestions for decorations, pompoms, mini take-home pix, serving tricks, and a Beer Bar. And of course – recipes! For bacon & blue cheese truffles, margarita wings, individual snack mixes, and football-shaped walnut cookies. Here’s “Giada’s Kickoff Party” episode in its entirety.  Food Network

There may be a tiny ad banner in the lower right corner of the screen – can just ignore it, as you’ll still see the full show

Giada’s Cookbooks    Giada’s Videos    Beer 101 on Vinepair {shows SSL}

♦♦♦  Have you seen the bags of mini bell peppers in your market? That is an easy, colorful appetizer just waiting to happen. Here we stuffed the cleaned, halved peppers with a mix of 4 oz softened block cream cheese, garlic salt, dried parsley and just enough avocado ranch to make a nice consistency, still thick enough to survive a bite without depositing the rest of the filling on the floor. Toppings were, clockwise from rightmost, smoked paprika, chopped pimento olives, green onions, chopped pepperoni, dill weed, and for a sweet touch, diced dates. The CS Kitchen

Bell Pepper Cookbooks, stuffed & more

How to grow your own bell peppers on The Gardener’s Path {shows SSL}

♦♦♦  Pink Champagne or . . . one of these “15 Best Pink Valentine’s Day Cocktails”? A nice range of flavors and true to the title, pretty creations ranging from delicate petal hues to a rosy blush. Here are some sips that will have me checking for ingredients. Blueberry mint cocktail, White hot chocolate with pink frosting, Honeyed cherry daiquiri.  Country Living

♦♦♦  Take your pick from these 50 Easy Snacks for the Big Game. Wowsie, dips, salsas, wings, nachos, poppers, bacon-wrapped tenders & smokies, cheese or veggie meatballs, bite-size pizzas & corn dogs, garlic knots, tasty veggies too. Below are some that sounded especially good. We made the crackers linked below and shown here, and it’s almost magic how the humble cracker can become a first class snack.  AllRecipes

Alabama Fire Crackers    Chicken Nachos w/Refried Beans

Greek-Inspired Snack Board

♦♦♦  Bad weather before the game? Ran out during the game? Don’t want to get out of your pjs? If you have an Amazon Echo Show, you can ask Alexa, “Which liquor stores deliver?” and then just watch the screen for the results.  Alexa

Echo Styles on Amazon

Want to join the Buzz? Enter “Buzz” in the Subject line – sign whatever way you want to be identified

Click here to email your comments, questions, links to fave recipes, or?

STUFF FOR COOKS

Find t-shirts, mugs, dvds, gift collections, plus top chef items including cookbooks    CS Marketplace Directory

♦  ♦  ♦

Appreciate anytime you can visit affiliate partners, linked below or in features above

Amazon

Click link above for Amazon homepage, Below for Echo Show, Echo Dots, Echo Studio, Especially for Kids – 

Browse Amazon Echo styles right here – all a foodster’s dream resource 

Zazzle

Click link above for Zazzle homepage, Below for CS-Designed, Zazzle-Crafted Items {direct Zazzle links on these pages}

Food Lovers T-Shirts page here on CS    Food Lover Mug page here on CS

ETC

Want to be among the first to know about new Salons?

Easy! Just put “Preview List”  in the Subject line, and email me at the link shown above for comments & questions

Looking for something in CS?

Use Search, Archives, Categories OR email me at the same link above with “CooksSalon” in the Subject line

Note

All transactions are solely between the buyer and linked supplier

Cook with passion and a party spirit, whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

All pages ©2022 CooksSalon.com

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin

Recipes Galore & More, Nov 12-Nov 18, 2021

New Salon every Friday – and you’re invited

C’mon in and help yourself to tasty resources

Hosted by Barbara J Nosek

Next week – use our links as we Wine & Dine with Alexa

      Let’s Chat    

Kitchen Talk –  It’s four steps, 10 minutes, and the crowd goes wild. 1} Whisk two 8-oz cartons whipped cream cheese, 1/4 c powdered sugar, 1 t vanilla, and pour into a store-bought graham cracker crust. 2} Carefully spread up to two 12 oz cans {depending on pan depth} apricot filling. 3} Top with Cool Whip. 4} Refrigerate for a couple of hours. And Voila! Apricot Cream Pie from CS.      Found a recipe for tahini-smothered charred cabbage. The topping was actually a sauce that also stirred in honey, lemon and seasonings. Pretty good but I think it would be awesome with just tahini. A surprise was how good the cabbage was with the caramelization brought on by the charring. You can see that original recipe here, from Bon Appetit.      I made the actor’s Mexican chocolate cookies featured in our 10.01.21 Salon and they are really good. I did half with the pepitas and half without, and actually liked the latter better. Second, I also added a bit of cinnamon, a la Mexican hot chocolate. And the last thing, you could leave out all the Mexi flavors and this would still be an excellent chocolate cookie.

♦  ♦  ♦

Shopping FindsOK, how cool is this for your holiday get-togethers??? Food scented candles! Vanilla you might expect. But how about salted caramel, warm buttered bread, lemon pound cake, blueberry muffins, pecan Belgium waffles, fresh strawberries, chocolate {shown}, marshmallow & more. All right here on Amazon     So, I finally bought the trending Gochujang. Interesting. Sugar sweet, red pepper spicy, mustard tangy, vinegar puckery, all wrapped up with onion and garlic. Think I like it, tasted but yet to use it. Bottle says wings, bbq sauce, dips & marinades. Likely at your supermarket, and of course on Amazon.

This week’s featured item – Fabulous videos galore! Watch then in action – your fave chefs & food shows, movies too. You can also sort by best sellers and best rated. All right here in CS on our Chef, Food, Cooking DVDs page.

  Featured Recipes 

Sweet & Sticky Caramel Hazelnut Rolls

Oh my, are those just all the right words or what. From Giada, the prep toasts the hazelnuts, ups the caramel ante with agave, and zings up the whole thing with cinnamon and nutmeg. And nice, it all starts with store-bought crescent rolls. From Food Network

Sheet Pan Caprese Chicken

All the usual tasty suspects from the classic salad cozy up to chicken for an easy cheesy dinner. Pan juices and reduced balsamic top it to perfection. From Food Network

Baked Denver Omelet

Here’s another perfect way to start the day. And if you look at the comments below the linked recipe, you’ll see it’s eminently tweakable. Some added cooked potato, others mushrooms. Some made smaller versions. Some added more cheese on top. I added more cheese in the mix and used poblano instead of bell pepper. The prep even tweaked itself, calling for a baking dish in the directions, a cast iron skillet in the demo. From AllRecipes

Mexican Meatloaf Muffins

What a fab idea. South of the border flavors meet a classic family dish in your muffin tin. Topped with a distant and savory cousin of ketchup. Easy too! Thinking this is one of those preps that can come to the table any time of day or night. From Tasty

Their Best Loved Soup & Stew Recipes

This icon of home and hearth has assembled an awesome roster of what most folks might consider the dual epitome of comfort foods. The soups and stews here come to the bowl as classic preps, ethnic specialties, and veggie transformations. Just some: baked potato soup, vegetarian gumbo, fast pho, sausage & white bean stew, green chile pork stew, seafood stew. From Better Homes & Gardens

   Cocktail Hour Buzz   

Sundowner snacks, drinks, talk – whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

  Lunchbox Snacks Kids Will Love  So why is this in CHB? Well, looking at the stuff here, thinking we big kids should get in on the fun too. Some that seem an especially good fit for the snack table – Apple chips with honey-yogurt mint dip, Homemade cheddar cheese snack crackers, Cheesy pita chips, Crispy parm chickpeas, Smoked paprika popcorn, Pimento cheese puffs, Miniature corn muffins, Peanut butter and jelly cookie bars. From MyRecipes

  Books on wine pairing certainly have their place in our culinary realm, giving us solid guidelines for choosing a sip compatible with our menu. But, what I especially like about this one is the page after page of ready-made duos, with the bonus that’s it’s from a familiar name. It’s all in the title, “Food & Wine’s Guide to Perfect Pairings: 150+ Delicious Recipes Matched with the World’s Most Popular Wines.” Kindle & hardcover, Prime eligible, 4 1/2 stars on Amazon.

♦  Food & Wine again talks food {sort of} and beverage here, but overall it  could not be more 180 from the item above. Say someone at your Thanksgiving gathering shuns alcohol, but you would like to offer something in the holiday spirit as you all enjoy pre-dinner drinks. Jones Brand sodas, famous for their wacko flavors, has you covered – with their Turkey & Gravy Soda. Yes, you read that right. And wait till you see some of their other “you put what in that bottle???” creations.

Want to join the Buzz? Enter CooksSalon in the subject line – sign the way you want to be identified

Click here to email your comments, questions, links to fave recipes, or?

Be the first to know about new SalonsEmail here with “Invite Me” in the Subject line

Find t-shirts, mugs, dvds, gift collections, plus top chef items including cookbooks

CS Marketplace Directory

♦  ♦  ♦

Appreciate anytime you can visit affiliate partners, either below or in features above

      

Click above for Amazon home page, below for Amazon Echo {Alexa}

Echo Show styles      Echo Dots      Echo Studio      Especially for Kids

Or browse all the fun Echo styles right here

CS-Designed, Zazzle-Crafted Items

Food Lovers T-Shirts page here on CS    Food Lover Mug page here on CS

♦  ♦  ♦

And for your consideration

No Kid Hungry – discover, donate    K9s For Warriors – discover, donate

Looking for something in CS?

Use Search, Archives, Categories OR contact me at bjnosek@gmail.com, subject line -> CooksSalon

Note

All transactions are solely between the buyer and linked supplier

Cook with passion and a party spirit, whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

All pages ©2021 CooksSalon.com

eb4823     c74abc            

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin

C’mon in to our Alexa Room, Oct 8-14, 2021

New Salon every Friday – and you’re invited

C’mon in and help yourself to tasty resources

Hosted by Barbara J Nosek

Next week – Kitchen Talk, Shopping Finds, Featured Recipes & Cocktail Hour Buzz

Let’s wine & dine with Alexa   

Tap into some of this culinary bounty that is an everyday part of Amazon Echo’s offerings – always CS-style recipes, sometimes tips and tidbits too

♦  Easy General Tso’s Chicken  Well the ingredient list is a bit long {that can be a good thing when it’s good stuff}, but it’s just 5 steps and a projected prep time of 22 min. Some of the reviewers disputed that time but in total gave this dish 4 stars {4 1/2 on the Alexa page}. Many noted better than take-out and it may well be the charred green beans that can take a bow for that.  From Epicurious

    Easy Apple Fritter Rings  Somebody else is tempting us with that adjective. This time it’s for a nice side dish or snack, which lives up to “easy” with a batter of just ginger ale & flour. There’s no amount given for the flour but this somewhat similar recipe for shrimp & fish, which also looks darn good from Rosemarie’s Kitchen, might suggest about a cup for the apple prep. Good starting point, anyway, and according to one of the comments you want a thin batter. From Tasty

Alexa tip – apples will keep at room temp for a short time, but for longer storage place in a perforated plastic bag, sprinkle with water and then into the coldest area of the fridge

♦  Bistro-Style Short Ribs  Just the briefest glance at what goes into the braising liquid will tell you everything you need to know about how deeply flavored those ribs are going to be. If you don’t have either of the two suggested appliances for browning the meat, I’m thinking you could use the same Dutch Oven they will eventually cook in. This recipe is credited to Tyler Florence, whom I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and can verify he is every bit as personable and charming as he seems.  From Food Network

♦  Carrot Cake Oatmeal  In our 08.06.21 Salon we mentioned German chocolate cake flavors to spruce up oatmeal. Now Alexa has popped up this cakey idea too. And yep, all that confection’s signature stuff is in there. Btw, if you google this recipe you’ll see not only some variations, but as well a do-si-do, which is to say carrot cake made with oatmeal. I’m going to stay with this recipe though because it just looks so good.  From Tasty

  Chocolate Semifreddo  As the name telegraphs and CS-ers probably know, a semifreddo is “half frozen,” and emerges from the freezer somewhat soft. This one is helped along that path by a warm chocolate glaze. It’s quite the festive dessert.  From Tastemade

Would you like your own Echo Show?

Boundless finds –  music, movies, tv shows, videos, health tips & news, entertainment news, national news, local news, sports news & recaps, jokes, weather, time, timer, alarm, reminders, shopping lists, Amazon delivery notifications, alerts, security camera connection, Skills . . .  and food, food, food, including step by step demos for most recipes, all on an interactive screen. Some connect to Amazon Prime.

Find the Show or other Echo style that’s just right for you on the Amazon pages below

Some are sweet & simple OR others have voice control, 3D audio, BlueTooth, HiFi speakers, Color bulbs, Smart home hub, alarms, clocks, also separate smart clocks & accessories too

Echo Show styles      Echo Dots      Echo Studio      Especially for Kids

Or browse all the fun Echo styles right here

Be the first to know about new SalonsEmail here with “Invite Me” in the Subject line

Find t-shirts, mugs, dvds, gift collections, plus top chef items including cookbooks

CS Marketplace Directory

♦  ♦  ♦

Appreciate anytime you can visit affiliate partners, either below or in features above

          Click    for Amazon home page          

CS-Designed, Zazzle-Crafted Items

Food Lovers T-Shirts page here on CS    Food Lovers Mug page here on CS

♦  ♦  ♦

And for your consideration

No Kid Hungry – discover, donate    K9s For Warriors – discover, donate

Looking for something in CS?

Use Search, Archives, Categories OR contact me at bjnosek@gmail.com, subject line -> CooksSalon

Note

All transactions are solely between the buyer and linked supplier

Cook with passion and a party spirit, whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

All pages ©2021 CooksSalon.com

eb4823     c74abc            

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin

Aug 20-Sept 16, 2021

New Salon every Friday – c’mon in

CS friends, and help yourself to tasty resources

Hosted by Barbara J Nosek

While we’re on a brief break, please enjoy past Salons & and other CS pages. See you right back here on Sept 17. Happy Labor Day!

  Let’s chat   

Kitchen Talk – So, I finally made Joanna Fluke’s chocolate chip crunch cookies. They’re featured in her bakery-themed book series and dvds, also among the recipes in her cookbook based on the bakery goods in that fiction realm. Links for all below in Shopping Finds        I did tweak a bit. First, I used a cup of chocolate chips and a cup of butterscotch chips, because I happened to have those on hand. Second, I measured with an ice cream scoop {walnut sized cookies – nope}. It made 26 and still baked at 375 in 10 min. I know this sort of undoes the whole idea, but not sure about the crunch. A commenter said she used Corn Chex™ {because that’s what she had on hand}, and wondering if just personally I’d like that texture better. The flavor in any case is excellent.        Need to use up some taters? Here’s a tasty, and I’d say healthful too, way to do just that. Thai Curry Potato Soup on Ihe Idaho Potato Commission site, calls upon assertive seasonings that are slightly tamed by coconut milk and chicken bouillon. Interesting garnishes too.

♦  ♦  ♦

Shopping Finds – For Joanna Fluke’s items on Amazon.  Mystery novels   Movies based on the novels   Cookbook with recipes from the stories.        More sparkly stuff! OK, don’t see them in my stores yet but maybe in yours. Nestle ® Toll House ® Disco ™ Semi Sweet & Edible Glitter Morsels. How fun is that??? See more on their page.

This week’s featured CS-designed, Zazzle-crafted item – Our featured item last week was especially for dog lovers. This week, if you’re a dog lover and a coffee lover, this one’s for you. Or maybe for a friend who shares those two passions. “Who’s a good coffeehound???”  Browse on Zazzle, your choice, mug or tee.

   On the Table  

Featured Recipes

Jacques Pepin’s Cream Cheese Soufflé

Wait, come back! Despite a rep that precedes it and not always in the most favorable way, this savory souffle could not be easier. The link actually takes you to a YouTube video where the platinum-credentialed chef himself shows you how it’s done. At the end of the demo there’s a list of ingredients and amounts. That his dishes are so elegant yet simple is a common refrain in the comments. From the Masters at Home series on PBS.

Giant cheese stuffed cracker

While it may borrow some style notes from pies, this is indeed a big-a cracker. And the title really should say CHEESE ’cause that filling blends a whole lot of cheddar, cream cheese and Parm. After the two crusts are baked, it’s all fridge. I did wonder if the crust would be so crackery that it would shatter when cut, but no, demo shows the wedge coming out nice and smooth, pie-like. Interesting way to shape the dough too. From Food Network.

Giant taco roll

Can two things from the same folks make a pattern? Who cares, this sounds like some tasty fun. A wrap made of baby corn tortillas is lightly baked with cheese inside and out. Then in goes a savory filling of ground beef, beans, pico, pickled jalapenos, black olives, seasonings and more cheese, baked and sliced. From Food Network.

Nutella Marshmallow French Toast 

One bite and you’ll want s’more {sorry!}. And simple as can be. I personally like this prep because of the quick dip in the egg/cream mixture and then into the pan. Those who may prefer the more custardy version could certainly let it sit in the drink a while longer.  No Nutella? Do what I did and mix melted chocolate chips with cashew butter {or pb or almond butter}. Btw you could make at least two and maybe more given the amount of egg & cream. From Tasty.

Italian Style Eggplant Parmesan

Well I guess most of us already attribute that dish to this culture. But . . . maybe some of the ingredients do earn this Parm extra Italian credits. Fresh tomatoes rather than a canned products as the base of the sauce. Fresh basil rather than dried. Fresh salted mozzarella. And freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. That’s a whole lot of mmm mmm. From Epicurious.

Their very best pizza recipes

From classic Chicago style deep dish and veggie to breakfast and dessert dishes. And so many ways to put it on the table – English muffin, pocket, pretzel, rolled, snack and casserole versions, also keto and gluten-free options, and yep dessert too. 26 in all. From Food Network.

♦  ♦  ♦

Have a cuppa in Alexa’s room – recipes & more

You don’t have to have an Amazon Echo Show to tap into the particular tidbits we’ve linked below, drawn from its vast culinary bounty.

Just pour a cup and let’s talk food with Alexa. Echo owners, also note that in many cases she guides you step by step through the prep . . .

Reuben Dips  When this came up on the screen and I went to AllRecipes to fetch the prep for you, wowsie, about a bazillion came up. So I just linked to the whole AR page and if you click it, the one that should appear in the first slot is the same one that was on Alexa’s screen and of the ones I checked really looks the best to me, and it is 5 stars. Also see an alternative below particularly suited to Happy Hour.

Chicken Tamale Pie  Got a moment? Send your cursor back to the link, click, and see just how good and satisfying this looks. It’s loaded with lots of chicken, plus beans, scallions, salsa, and seasonings, all topped with a buttery, cheesy, cornmeal crust. Rave comments for this one give it its 4.5 stars. From Food Network.

Extra Crispy Spicy Fried Cauliflower  Well the double hit of a coating that includes both flour and cornstarch likely says crispy’s gonna happen. And with a teaspoon of cayenne and two tablespoons of hot sauce you can probably expect that spicy promise to deliver too. With many other flavors also checking in, this is a really nice side dish, but thinking it could easily jump into snackland and right down into Cocktail Hour Buzz. From Tasty.

Would you like your own Echo Show?

Boundless information, music, movies, tv shows, videos, health tips & news, entertainment news, national news, local news, sports news & recaps, weather, timer, alarm, reminders, shopping lists, Amazon delivery notifications, alerts, security camera connection . . .  and food, food, food, all on an interactive screen. Some connect to Amazon Prime.

You can browse all the Echo styles here on this Amazon page

   Cocktail Hour Buzz   

Sundowner snacks, drinks, talk – whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

   As promised, here is the dip referenced above in Alexa’s Room. This one is a Slow Cooker Reuben Dip which could keep warm on the snack table. Whichever one you make, whichever way you make it, probably want a big surrounding pile of rye or pumpernickel pieces or even rye crackers.

   Bad news. Tequila Day was last month and some of us might have missed celebrating it. Good news. Patron has give us enough tequila-based drink recipes to last us till next year’s big day. Shown, watermelon basil margarita. Cheers!

  Trisha Yearwood always brings us such fun food. And tasty too! As a fine example, her Cheese Straws which get an added kick from garlic powder, black pepper and cayenne. Not only great finger food, but thinking could also be pretty good dippers. Demo too. On Food Network.

Want to join the Buzz? Enter CooksSalon in the subject line – sign the way you want to be identified

Click here to email your comments, questions, links to fave recipes, or?

Find t-shirts, mugs, dvds, gift collections, plus top chef items including cookbooks

CS Marketplace Directory

♦  ♦  ♦

CooksSalon is free to everybody – appreciate anytime you click through to my only affiliate partners

Ninja Grill on Amazon   Amazon Echo Show    Ninja Blenders

Zazzle

Food-themed T-shirts here on CS    Food-themed Mugs here on CS

Food-themed items

♦  ♦  ♦

And for your consideration

No Kid Hungry – discover, donate    K9s For Warriors – discover, donate

Looking for something in CS?

Use Search OR contact me at bjnosek@gmail.com, subject line -> CooksSalon

Note

All transactions are solely between the buyer and linked supplier

Cook with passion and a party spirit, whether for a crew, or for two, or just for you

All pages ©2021 CooksSalon.com

FacebooktwitterlinkedinFacebooktwitterlinkedin