Grilling for Dinner | Grilled Bruschetta, Herb Marinated Grilled Shrimp, Corn on the Cob & Asparagus

So many people are intimidated by the idea of having a dinner party... but having friends over to "grill out" is no problem.  It is casual, stress-free, and relaxing - I just wish people treated indoor entertaining in the same casual manner!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFRYTNF0i2QEOEoUkbDoXquzS5lZIeHRTwJkIMHX2QgN9IALM9DcENmgX_fn-ckwAqSSvMxa_Bi9ywBlvWwIRlbVP1Bv9dIOPzr1B8F5nt3CXbPzyAvPRstJ0iWV8KV9qUeUExDSksBfPo/s1600/IMG_9950.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFRYTNF0i2QEOEoUkbDoXquzS5lZIeHRTwJkIMHX2QgN9IALM9DcENmgX_fn-ckwAqSSvMxa_Bi9ywBlvWwIRlbVP1Bv9dIOPzr1B8F5nt3CXbPzyAvPRstJ0iWV8KV9qUeUExDSksBfPo/s640/IMG_9950.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />Spray off the patio furniture and clean the grill - use this Summer season to raise your entertaining comfort level so that by the time Fall comes around you are ready and will to host an (gasp) indoor dinner party.  Branch out from the typical burger and brat fare (even though there is nothing better than a burger, when done right!) and try something new.<br /><br />For me, it works best when the entire menu can be grilled - appetizers, entree & dessert.  I get everything ready to go ahead of time, then we can all be outside (even me!) enjoying ourselves while dinner literally cooks itself.   My favorite part of all is that the only thing I have to clean up after the party is a baking sheet (that holds everything that will go on the grill) and a couple of bowls. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwp92wU-CnHrJzz-T32RgfEwHvS-XGi7_GeAO4ESJx8dj9661QLWHOyc9WTxmF0ASRCvo3vA5HSVa005MT2K-tCrz5GwxPEve_R5-S9ZZe3p-a-prw7s939JNWudNYv3nx1ujdvm090ra3/s1600/IMG_9918.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwp92wU-CnHrJzz-T32RgfEwHvS-XGi7_GeAO4ESJx8dj9661QLWHOyc9WTxmF0ASRCvo3vA5HSVa005MT2K-tCrz5GwxPEve_R5-S9ZZe3p-a-prw7s939JNWudNYv3nx1ujdvm090ra3/s640/IMG_9918.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything ready to go outside to grill. </td></tr></tbody></table>The Outdoor Dinner Party Menu... Grilled :<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/tomato-fresh-mozzarella-bruschetta-on.html">Tomato & Fresh Mozzarella Bruschetta (get recipe)</a><br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1267243889">Herb Marinated Grilled Jumbo Shrimp</a><br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1267243889">Grilled Asparagus</a><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/grilled-herbed-shrimp-asparagus-corn.html">Grilled Corn on the Cob</a><br />Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream<br /><br />I like to do courses on the grill - not in a fancy-schmancy way, but in a have-something-different-to eat-every-10-minutes sort of way.  I start with something that takes just a couple of minutes, in this case,<a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/tomato-fresh-mozzarella-bruschetta-on.html"> bruschetta</a>, then the rest of the dinner goes on while we nibble on appetizers and sip cocktails.  It works great because there is no running back and forth into the kitchen - I sit and relax while I tell Mike to take the asparagus off the grill and to turn the shrimp.  Ok, that might be a stretch...<br /><a name="more"></a>  <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGaMYzi-Fm60xF7qEAZm9znXgRKXhYACsde-UzkUxPG2g9iT2AZSrD6LVNQzr_SNKGEAGNsIcMSxjeNYcXqKRbVGQpBAE9_FwyoHiftaeiwk8xdMz4FjYIzFwrGn8QhpcKL6Vi8cCh9076/s1600/IMG_9930.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGaMYzi-Fm60xF7qEAZm9znXgRKXhYACsde-UzkUxPG2g9iT2AZSrD6LVNQzr_SNKGEAGNsIcMSxjeNYcXqKRbVGQpBAE9_FwyoHiftaeiwk8xdMz4FjYIzFwrGn8QhpcKL6Vi8cCh9076/s640/IMG_9930.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Darcy is waiting for his first course...</td></tr></tbody></table>This menu has a perfect time table for a leisurely dinner outdoors - the bread goes on first for just 1 minute on each side for the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/tomato-fresh-mozzarella-bruschetta-on.html">bruschetta (get recipe!)</a>, which makes a perfect snack while the rest of dinner is cooking.  After dinner, I put peaches on to cook for a about 5 minutes then serve them with ice cream.  Everyone has room for a dessert like that.      <br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLFdK-DNWY1eXBb1HX4y5Ek0f34yIdssI40QlvbgXMiTn4s-6q0Op_XoTxJ2JZA27r1aQYzEIWi2b7y3UJ7cHyDgwPkQ6fKGkJJVN1dyxOnU1vOBpPcaH2tveXRy3ng4P3COMfm-YylZ8/s1600/IMG_9908.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLFdK-DNWY1eXBb1HX4y5Ek0f34yIdssI40QlvbgXMiTn4s-6q0Op_XoTxJ2JZA27r1aQYzEIWi2b7y3UJ7cHyDgwPkQ6fKGkJJVN1dyxOnU1vOBpPcaH2tveXRy3ng4P3COMfm-YylZ8/s640/IMG_9908.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />If tomatoes aren't in season yet, I like to use heirloom cherry tomatoes - they always have great flavor and color.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFy3Hlbconhnfk3QoFLFcFjtoFQfPIBJIVqD9W8yKBO7lYHR5oNtWGHWGGPz_EaOsaHowOjJwWtnbyaJWcydJEsqk2cUn_UxlSboLMUIErf2V8rzlygPdmAbwZgALj_rla0fXXYaI4Jv5u/s1600/IMG_9923.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_QL65Bw76AWObrusL0Z0ocWQ70oIMyrpOjOHFGw1Hxv56I1GPXaPUFcQDS4KB1ckhyphenhyphen__6ow4ScbYB8g8_EeFEXVjSLY9QJFJBiS_mfog3qES6e51ZJNTjLevICl2giidM9xhWfR0h3Gr/s1600/IMG_9932.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_QL65Bw76AWObrusL0Z0ocWQ70oIMyrpOjOHFGw1Hxv56I1GPXaPUFcQDS4KB1ckhyphenhyphen__6ow4ScbYB8g8_EeFEXVjSLY9QJFJBiS_mfog3qES6e51ZJNTjLevICl2giidM9xhWfR0h3Gr/s640/IMG_9932.JPG" width="640" /> </a><br /><br />If you'd like to put the assembled <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/tomato-fresh-mozzarella-bruschetta-on.html">bruschetta</a> back on the grill, they make a great hot and melted snack.  They are great served hot or cold. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnasRm7qoeaqJa7pAmjuDG5IavVBmKm0ILgKhtKsWk9h22PLcYltnDi42RwmRuIoIt-n0eHZo_I6xKB6-IVI_GQQ808o6pbj5MrbQ4OyYPDTn5vuOKL7vsPMWTbfpDhhKE9xOmSqrKMlv6/s1600/IMG_9946.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnasRm7qoeaqJa7pAmjuDG5IavVBmKm0ILgKhtKsWk9h22PLcYltnDi42RwmRuIoIt-n0eHZo_I6xKB6-IVI_GQQ808o6pbj5MrbQ4OyYPDTn5vuOKL7vsPMWTbfpDhhKE9xOmSqrKMlv6/s640/IMG_9946.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />The shrimp, asparagus and corn cook for the same amount of time on the grill... 5 minutes!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikkOhUyMCUOHF4qkNzSZX5NaJQEf8eNFS_EZ6csBLqfZPE9F3m72_uOPsvfMr7SMiQFZzxHwhCytre5li5GjMn5TkOiFdVrG7VSrqODEPyxglPuTidmL_bArknVjhoWv_4WCA8fpjmPzb/s1600/IMG_9959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikkOhUyMCUOHF4qkNzSZX5NaJQEf8eNFS_EZ6csBLqfZPE9F3m72_uOPsvfMr7SMiQFZzxHwhCytre5li5GjMn5TkOiFdVrG7VSrqODEPyxglPuTidmL_bArknVjhoWv_4WCA8fpjmPzb/s640/IMG_9959.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFRYTNF0i2QEOEoUkbDoXquzS5lZIeHRTwJkIMHX2QgN9IALM9DcENmgX_fn-ckwAqSSvMxa_Bi9ywBlvWwIRlbVP1Bv9dIOPzr1B8F5nt3CXbPzyAvPRstJ0iWV8KV9qUeUExDSksBfPo/s1600/IMG_9950.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a> <br />Dinner, laptop style.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjXicSt_I_jMSJreiKwwpna33YjuZuLqRE4R-MgGf7LyNdy5dsOyEKeIQ9G7UxYr04RHe5I_TyWzpRTsDbGu6nVp5CMxab1dPs2PCe15YiPtDdxLt7wM5dx-Hk5vu_QEAwwgxd1Nt5kIb/s1600/IMG_9962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjXicSt_I_jMSJreiKwwpna33YjuZuLqRE4R-MgGf7LyNdy5dsOyEKeIQ9G7UxYr04RHe5I_TyWzpRTsDbGu6nVp5CMxab1dPs2PCe15YiPtDdxLt7wM5dx-Hk5vu_QEAwwgxd1Nt5kIb/s640/IMG_9962.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM0xFpH8eXC4E7UWK1wY7jRO-Iq3Mc2_Yl4dFH7IpjPzGzFZZ0CP8OhCYT4EkFRAvsLqjMZg4TFUcQpKGOEJIwg2prraKd82Lv2y202hvGaWXfDoNzkbQpBXW7ccbOCFy7wWh30VTpgyWg/s1600/IMG_9962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>Warning: Neighbors and dogs will be begging...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifP18Oewd_kuQexzAiPXxijH_0HktFOmlZ3UKOVleqOisV2VPWRrU9woenN3csS7G3CKn0Pjkadr3N8xGB-YEBRwRt5KXGY_-hVZDY9uazVbdIgZLdpoTNLnJL0OR2Nws-RXuE5duHd2M1/s1600/IMG_1047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifP18Oewd_kuQexzAiPXxijH_0HktFOmlZ3UKOVleqOisV2VPWRrU9woenN3csS7G3CKn0Pjkadr3N8xGB-YEBRwRt5KXGY_-hVZDY9uazVbdIgZLdpoTNLnJL0OR2Nws-RXuE5duHd2M1/s640/IMG_1047.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Especially for the grilled peaches and ice cream.<br /><br />Grilled Peaches<br /><br />4 peaches, halved and pit removed<br />2 tablespoons of butter, melted<br />2 tablespoons of brown sugar<br />1 teaspoon of cinnamon<br /><br />Brush the peaches with butter, then sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.  Grill for 2 minutes on each side.  Serve hot with ice cream... vanilla or cinnamon?<br /><br />$40 Dinner Party Shopping List :<br /><br />2 pounds of shrimp... $14<br />1 lemon... $1 <br />4 ears of corn on the cob... $2<br />Baguette... $2<br />Tomatoes... $3<br />Fresh Basil... $2<br />Fresh Mozzarella... $5 <br />Asparagus... $3 <br />Peaches... $4<br />Ice Cream... $4<br /><br />Easy Summer Grilling Recipes :  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_QL65Bw76AWObrusL0Z0ocWQ70oIMyrpOjOHFGw1Hxv56I1GPXaPUFcQDS4KB1ckhyphenhyphen__6ow4ScbYB8g8_EeFEXVjSLY9QJFJBiS_mfog3qES6e51ZJNTjLevICl2giidM9xhWfR0h3Gr/s1600/IMG_9932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_QL65Bw76AWObrusL0Z0ocWQ70oIMyrpOjOHFGw1Hxv56I1GPXaPUFcQDS4KB1ckhyphenhyphen__6ow4ScbYB8g8_EeFEXVjSLY9QJFJBiS_mfog3qES6e51ZJNTjLevICl2giidM9xhWfR0h3Gr/s320/IMG_9932.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/tomato-fresh-mozzarella-bruschetta-on.html">Tomato & Fresh Mozzarella Bruschetta, Grilled!</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhyG6ZEp05dm_qfrVJbimKf1xQDMvf-f0vGlocM9R5B_gFCEkcdfgDofs8BiE8PxRDsNlm96lvpl4olATCTlBU_6MTUE1IofkxYvDCsm0ypxzzv3BTn4CTpeRPMTHlmftjx7PMFcIfn04/s1600/IMG_9958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhyG6ZEp05dm_qfrVJbimKf1xQDMvf-f0vGlocM9R5B_gFCEkcdfgDofs8BiE8PxRDsNlm96lvpl4olATCTlBU_6MTUE1IofkxYvDCsm0ypxzzv3BTn4CTpeRPMTHlmftjx7PMFcIfn04/s320/IMG_9958.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/grilled-herbed-shrimp-asparagus-corn.html">Grilled Herbed Shrimp, Asparagus & Corn </a>

Grilling for Dinner | Grilled Bruschetta, Herb Marinated Grilled Shrimp, Corn on the Cob & Asparagus

So many people are intimidated by the idea of having a dinner party... but having friends over to "grill out" is no problem.  It i...

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Penne Pasta Pie | Chicken Tomato Cream Sauce Baked with Fresh Mozzarella

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwju0u5fhNygM312YKZewsP1asT4umHWdGOaT0nF1BKtSOsAlhHonnTgYVsA7FNKUt2w27vTrTc-qzpBpmdeNlsNpA7KrZ5qJ3hM7hRst02VCYAcATu_ks5SSX03uUgCSQZd8pwai0E2f/s1600/IMG_9853.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwju0u5fhNygM312YKZewsP1asT4umHWdGOaT0nF1BKtSOsAlhHonnTgYVsA7FNKUt2w27vTrTc-qzpBpmdeNlsNpA7KrZ5qJ3hM7hRst02VCYAcATu_ks5SSX03uUgCSQZd8pwai0E2f/s640/IMG_9853.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Penne Pasta Pie</td></tr></tbody></table>Penne Pasta Pie<br /><br />Pasta is always the solution to a quick and delicious dinner.  We all have so many recipes that can be made in 10 minutes - shrimp linguine, <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2010/12/recipes-homemade-pasta-pappardelle-with.html">truffle pasta</a>, <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/tomato-sauce-simple-tomato-sauce-recipe.html">simple tomato basil sauce with angel hair</a>, <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/01/arribiatta-sauce-with-shrimp-linguine.html">shrimp arribiata</a>, <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2010/09/recipes-chicken-with-olives-and-angel.html">chicken with olives and angel hair,</a> etc.  But while they might only take 10 minutes, it is still 10 minutes that you have to spend making a mess in your kitchen, and there is still a pasta pot, saute pan and cutting boards to clean.<br /><br />When you're having friends over for dinner, I like to make everything ahead of time.  I learned this from my catering days - I would prepare as much as possible 'off-site' to minimize what could go wrong when I was in my Clients' kitchen.  Not only does it minimize potential disasters, it also makes the party more fun for me - I'm not running around the kitchen, there's no dirty pots and pans in the sink, and I can actually participate in the conversation and fun.<br /><br />So many of us think that having a dinner party means serving something expensive or elaborate.  We've all stressed over steaks that are cook especially for each person... medium rare for some, medium for others, and well done for one of your guests... ugh.  Forget it.  We can all get a great steak at a restaurant.  I like to serve recipes that are simple to prepare, easy to keep hot (or cold), and can be served family style around a table of friends. <br /><br />That's where baked pastas come in.  Do you ever wonder why you had so many lasagnas at family dinners?  Our Moms, Aunts and Grandmas know a little something about hosting a manageable party that can be survived by the hostess and enjoyed by her guests.  (Right, Aunt Nancy?!) <br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/penne-pasta-pie-chicken-tomato-cream.html">Keep Reading : Baked Penne Pasta Pie Recipe >></a><br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br />While lasagna is a surefire winner, I like to experiment a little and make new versions of pastas that will surprise everyone.  This Pasta Pie (get it - baked in a pie dish?) is a mix between everyone's favorite macaroni n'cheese and chicken parmesan : Penne pasta, roasted chicken, fresh basil and mushrooms in a tomato cream sauce, baked with fresh mozzarella and parmesan.  Not only is this delicious but it uses leftovers.  I always have extra tomato basil sauce in our refrigerator - this is a great way to use it up.  <br /><br />Turn this into a <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/search/label/40%20dollar%20dinner%20party">$40 Dinner Party</a> that is really stress-free party and add this <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/individual-blackberry-crumble.html">make-ahead Blackberry Crumble</a> to your menu.  It can be made the night before and baked while you're having dinner.<br /><br /><br />Chicken Penne Pasta Pie<br /><i>serves 4</i> <br /><br />1 chicken breast<br />2 tablespoons of olive oil<br />1 tablespoon dry italian seasoning<br />2 cups of <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/tomato-sauce-simple-tomato-sauce-recipe.html">prepared tomato (spaghetti) sauce</a> (left over or store-bought)<br />1 cup of heavy cream<br />3/4 pound of penne pasta (or other tube pasta), cooked<br />8 oz. of fresh mozzarella, cut into cubes<br />1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, grated<br />2 tablespoons of fresh basil, chopped <br /><br />Preheat oven at 400 degrees.  Place chicken breast on a sheet pan.  Drizzle with olive oil and italian seasoning.  Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.  When the chicken has cooled, cut it into 1-inch cubes.<br /><br />In the meantime, prepare penne pasta according to the directions on the box, less 2 minutes.  I like to cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than instructions to make sure it doesn't get over done. <br /><br />In a saute pan, reheat left over or store-bought tomato sauce for 3-5 minutes until bubbly.  Stir in heavy cream.  Cook for 2-4 more minutes, just until it begins to thicken.  Remove from heat.<br /><br />In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, cheeses (reserving 1/2 cup of cheese for the top), tomato cream sauce, and basil.  Pour into a pie dish and top with cheese.<br /><br />Bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees.  Let it set for 5 minutes before serving.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGgH4-I4z_-A2N1J40_mN4emq7VPpPlF8aYKOVWFx7CZZywWzi9PUGW5iB20EppeUSNhWkqOMEgIKfemUaJPjtBxGM5yLIWWO4O3szPnt08hRFVcDdKXIwoc2CJpP1TDhAK7LsiE1OYE7y/s1600/IMG_9758.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGgH4-I4z_-A2N1J40_mN4emq7VPpPlF8aYKOVWFx7CZZywWzi9PUGW5iB20EppeUSNhWkqOMEgIKfemUaJPjtBxGM5yLIWWO4O3szPnt08hRFVcDdKXIwoc2CJpP1TDhAK7LsiE1OYE7y/s640/IMG_9758.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Tomato Cream Sauce made with left over spaghetti sauce and heavy cream. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeucS7CGemso7TmqL4mtSYI_1gPSScYoH-R5Morcf3mOj-Fm4ZppLe4gRiEq8GkcmDIMM_RAIuByMAvTEw_sCNXnQPqcz5Xma6Ek9wLQQi5sKdW8vVY0KGFGx19krEhTIx5LC3nvl8MiU/s1600/IMG_9820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeucS7CGemso7TmqL4mtSYI_1gPSScYoH-R5Morcf3mOj-Fm4ZppLe4gRiEq8GkcmDIMM_RAIuByMAvTEw_sCNXnQPqcz5Xma6Ek9wLQQi5sKdW8vVY0KGFGx19krEhTIx5LC3nvl8MiU/s640/IMG_9820.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">All of the ingredients ready to get stirred together.  </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjF91xjYGpg-6UWkhSU_KXwVRwhyphenhyphen5sm8HzlPxWIYzX7lkK1ZslW7irwoCS2KCli_rfQMXfPISlls429EjodXjDevWjFEhp9YHSauCKk9IcLdKmO-hBigGy5nRBZPIPjIQtnfrn9m36fnRG/s1600/IMG_9828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjF91xjYGpg-6UWkhSU_KXwVRwhyphenhyphen5sm8HzlPxWIYzX7lkK1ZslW7irwoCS2KCli_rfQMXfPISlls429EjodXjDevWjFEhp9YHSauCKk9IcLdKmO-hBigGy5nRBZPIPjIQtnfrn9m36fnRG/s640/IMG_9828.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Everything in one bowl. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uYnVsCahw2yKIayC6iYx4HHVuwVK-AztrAfaG_jMwX2NQ9pWOJDRMe1FrylPPw6YI_1bn_ER4RttZXPSz1AS3iwE3olgSyf-1zEzIFCqaGsFEBWuZrkO174gbEndaYY-QaU1Doe23HFf/s1600/IMG_9832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uYnVsCahw2yKIayC6iYx4HHVuwVK-AztrAfaG_jMwX2NQ9pWOJDRMe1FrylPPw6YI_1bn_ER4RttZXPSz1AS3iwE3olgSyf-1zEzIFCqaGsFEBWuZrkO174gbEndaYY-QaU1Doe23HFf/s640/IMG_9832.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Mixed together and put into a fun pie dish. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yZdpqYk5P__FSHlMLTKXeUFIsOGJwPNhXo2XI-WAI24WExLo4F9gGZMNMrxoYflejZLjB6jdCD5xLjyFgvH0H1LYmXiFFHHStClRDsD9YGtyC8Uz6SkKhF4qxF_0Gnx_sClzi14D046i/s1600/IMG_9836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yZdpqYk5P__FSHlMLTKXeUFIsOGJwPNhXo2XI-WAI24WExLo4F9gGZMNMrxoYflejZLjB6jdCD5xLjyFgvH0H1LYmXiFFHHStClRDsD9YGtyC8Uz6SkKhF4qxF_0Gnx_sClzi14D046i/s640/IMG_9836.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Top with extra mozzarella and parmesan cheese. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjUXxPlPUR3tHFGBjWH6R2Wf6hXIDqGlKi1cc98UF3HYAdQ3zYhMFpQ8ObjNMyB744NuHFQHaplPC94ww_RTC8TNXqBda_JL7JfieAqqrkPueeGUffvwoHA-SumoA5W5WIxyXn6sOvDcn/s1600/IMG_9867.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjUXxPlPUR3tHFGBjWH6R2Wf6hXIDqGlKi1cc98UF3HYAdQ3zYhMFpQ8ObjNMyB744NuHFQHaplPC94ww_RTC8TNXqBda_JL7JfieAqqrkPueeGUffvwoHA-SumoA5W5WIxyXn6sOvDcn/s640/IMG_9867.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjUXxPlPUR3tHFGBjWH6R2Wf6hXIDqGlKi1cc98UF3HYAdQ3zYhMFpQ8ObjNMyB744NuHFQHaplPC94ww_RTC8TNXqBda_JL7JfieAqqrkPueeGUffvwoHA-SumoA5W5WIxyXn6sOvDcn/s1600/IMG_9867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />More Easy Recipes for <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/search/label/40%20dollar%20dinner%20party">$40 Dinner Parties</a>:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QqSD5zZv00O_PUnQeNulcQhighGmrHSyP9T9jSZ9VtarDfVq-OYOWQDuBW43dU2SrmJ25i4FTJjn3-PAWswYCuOWIYwdKk2ec7V8U-UXttQVaeBamyj6QSbG_f0bd7YWQNqDbOaQCju3/s1600/Lobster+Mac+and+Cheese+Recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QqSD5zZv00O_PUnQeNulcQhighGmrHSyP9T9jSZ9VtarDfVq-OYOWQDuBW43dU2SrmJ25i4FTJjn3-PAWswYCuOWIYwdKk2ec7V8U-UXttQVaeBamyj6QSbG_f0bd7YWQNqDbOaQCju3/s320/Lobster+Mac+and+Cheese+Recipe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/04/lobster-mac-and-cheese-recipe-best.html">Lobster Mac N'Cheese</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhyhNWJnth8FjtZIICqkrBDSn4kOV3uN76UwU_cC0p1zrbvbvUwC4VtwAUadBf4I-qXcJc6JAZ7kmYlPuyuIRB6UwWAbvKhWcfPCAMn2KWHcfL3ILHICcsc8rdPvVkc2UOS9PpHbePmcI/s1600/DSC_2563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhyhNWJnth8FjtZIICqkrBDSn4kOV3uN76UwU_cC0p1zrbvbvUwC4VtwAUadBf4I-qXcJc6JAZ7kmYlPuyuIRB6UwWAbvKhWcfPCAMn2KWHcfL3ILHICcsc8rdPvVkc2UOS9PpHbePmcI/s320/DSC_2563.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2010/12/holidays-entertaining-christmas.html">Host a Breakfast Party!</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8X4b9bUsyJNwiXjCgzuaX6q1N0viCV0KbGaEdEAV6SozYoDVbGSH5mUDC91uvQjINIoWpu9uUW0hQ_aIMbnCVobLgUKyoGPTyVeI-y_glW5QLAH6YydTju44F0XhbQTt7-bEUuZmLHRi/s1600/IMG_7595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8X4b9bUsyJNwiXjCgzuaX6q1N0viCV0KbGaEdEAV6SozYoDVbGSH5mUDC91uvQjINIoWpu9uUW0hQ_aIMbnCVobLgUKyoGPTyVeI-y_glW5QLAH6YydTju44F0XhbQTt7-bEUuZmLHRi/s320/IMG_7595.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/homemade-pizza-party-for-grown-ups-40.html">$40 Dinner Party : Gourmet Pizza Party  </a><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGgH4-I4z_-A2N1J40_mN4emq7VPpPlF8aYKOVWFx7CZZywWzi9PUGW5iB20EppeUSNhWkqOMEgIKfemUaJPjtBxGM5yLIWWO4O3szPnt08hRFVcDdKXIwoc2CJpP1TDhAK7LsiE1OYE7y/s1600/IMG_9758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>

Penne Pasta Pie | Chicken Tomato Cream Sauce Baked with Fresh Mozzarella

Penne Pasta Pie Penne Pasta Pie Pasta is always the solution to a quick and delicious dinner.  We all have so many recipes that can be made ...

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Margarita Pizza Recipe | Homemade | Pizza Party | Budget Friendly Dinner Party Idea

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_llEFMLqUoMAa28qUK4Dqu8pEb1VdegasR6RfrfHYzYk4gHvcLymqe9wUsBNX3POLLh3hwBu8Ml6TmxWlLNyY0wCBNLSVC2uPgY_ButzWk67ZNaqJYhl6icFdYOFzErddZgDgYc9YGcc/s1600/IMG_7446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EupD500cBrFBTNBIebgQQ1nANacQqXpTAshhxmemWX0mehQObFo5t07DN8b7B5VR40Idqks1M_u2qrbHakFe45j5fiqGubUefKJSE7U8LuyIcsMtayQ9Zi9Le15JOIosT0RW97xS-sAJ/s1600/IMG_7446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EupD500cBrFBTNBIebgQQ1nANacQqXpTAshhxmemWX0mehQObFo5t07DN8b7B5VR40Idqks1M_u2qrbHakFe45j5fiqGubUefKJSE7U8LuyIcsMtayQ9Zi9Le15JOIosT0RW97xS-sAJ/s640/IMG_7446.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMRVgBAn_U01B9y_iW0IhEm4195EQtDjhyW1MafKcrd04VzYyuK3VKchxlMmiLvdG43eEXM-XU2pYyBTii29z1hpYUhzXGQ0xUSHNai3dg3d8M88T7irnOcdE4HQznO89G0gKtPqxSa4Y/s1600/IMG_7450.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br />Margarita Pizza<br /><br />There is something so good about a fresh margarita pizza.  Maybe the simplicity.  Maybe the cheese.  Probably the cheese <i>and</i> the fact that there is nothing competing with it for attention. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhoaWTuuFr_I0rzmDl9g-rqTyi0OCELBZGwB3N07z1XUGI238hncDO-iFOnfFKlf2A5JVsvp5WspUehrmieuXWG5NKTQNNtNjyHB4cimXg8U8clwNyByWPoo2HyqJjZKHrbsxQx_mUkSJ/s1600/IMG_3933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhoaWTuuFr_I0rzmDl9g-rqTyi0OCELBZGwB3N07z1XUGI238hncDO-iFOnfFKlf2A5JVsvp5WspUehrmieuXWG5NKTQNNtNjyHB4cimXg8U8clwNyByWPoo2HyqJjZKHrbsxQx_mUkSJ/s200/IMG_3933.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/lemon-vinaigrette-with-spring-salad.html">Veggie Packed Salad</a></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiomMiosOm9gOQT76NxiQYG9npf02Hc9cEz-R4-Hd0DwjQ9KmGmJINOYlkicSl7XnUD2Em8vKNC0HahTaKloZ05qDzU9AUoUNX2TrvhvBDm16S7mXIZV-g4w5RlH9YH1X3k8Ah8Oz3cNuNA/s1600/IMG_3905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>I like to serve this classic, simple margarita pizza with <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/lemon-vinaigrette-with-spring-salad.html">veggie packed salad - tomatoes, red pepper, cucumber and red onion</a>.  It makes me feel better about non existent nutritional value that the pizza provides.<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/lemon-vinaigrette-with-spring-salad.html">Click here for the ingredient lists and an easy lemon vinaigrette recipe. </a><br /><br />Homemade Margarita Pizza<br /><br />Pre-Made Pizza Dough*<br />*I bought this dough at Whole Foods, you can also go to any pizza place and ask for a round of dough.  It typically costs about $2 for a large piece.<br />1 - 14.5 oz. can of crushed tomatoes<br />1 tablespoon of olive oil<br />1/2 tablespoon of dried italian herbs (you can use any brand with oregano & basil)<br />4 cloves of garlic, minced<br />1 teaspoon of sea salt<br />1 teaspoon of sugar<br />fresh mozzarella<br />fresh basil<br />parmesan cheese, grated<br /><br />Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.<br /><br /><br /><br />For the Pizza Sauce :<br /><br />In a saucepan, saute the garlic on medium heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute.  Add dried herbs.  Add in crushed tomatoes, salt and sugar.  Cook over medium heat for 10-20 minutes.<br /><br />For the Pizza : <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_8hxeYaC5ofZa1KjNG9MLdL0KybIdEDta1qXC-LIIQRuaQ0ITyFIC5diUa3ItnPFAPhlNWg-Nz7BeBnPunhJYCEFzLpOiRJ6iG2iOzagiR_eadgD0d4snYfv8esROhwheRJYo0U7ls-a/s1600/IMG_7390.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_8hxeYaC5ofZa1KjNG9MLdL0KybIdEDta1qXC-LIIQRuaQ0ITyFIC5diUa3ItnPFAPhlNWg-Nz7BeBnPunhJYCEFzLpOiRJ6iG2iOzagiR_eadgD0d4snYfv8esROhwheRJYo0U7ls-a/s400/IMG_7390.JPG" width="400" /></a><br /><br />On a floured board, shape dough into a round disk.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUVFU0Qj63P0W61JmO7Q4nduIN5kj27-hYfKECfyZtGrUXcUWYSsHypwC2hFYI3kypm0ripbTWWAM6f3l3IzIxHUJqPDBWhL3yyhsqa0vXrpQgbm3F3T_yoif2jut19Bj7hhqFkCzRebt/s1600/IMG_7402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUVFU0Qj63P0W61JmO7Q4nduIN5kj27-hYfKECfyZtGrUXcUWYSsHypwC2hFYI3kypm0ripbTWWAM6f3l3IzIxHUJqPDBWhL3yyhsqa0vXrpQgbm3F3T_yoif2jut19Bj7hhqFkCzRebt/s400/IMG_7402.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>You may need to stretch and pull it.  Transfer to a baking sheet.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjpVtvcj8IYdwSNuJ6V_G1nOFC7kr_gP2tVG4gcdKRcX5rva9UHv8ZT1WoIRuifo9Hqzouo-S4y74xQl2QdOjCyg4V8o24-GnCGXpD2uSZeqJUoWWQSdRkkA_2VIhTxRTAnYu6HCoKCBq/s1600/IMG_7407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjpVtvcj8IYdwSNuJ6V_G1nOFC7kr_gP2tVG4gcdKRcX5rva9UHv8ZT1WoIRuifo9Hqzouo-S4y74xQl2QdOjCyg4V8o24-GnCGXpD2uSZeqJUoWWQSdRkkA_2VIhTxRTAnYu6HCoKCBq/s400/IMG_7407.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Top the dough with the tomato sauce.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1BW0TVkdlWqJhDwVL5m5ofvB_wc8vW3XwxLbaO2UAB6qHtxun_uxxr7Yz7p1DuJj7b3Rrt44-7txh8r-riNd6R6LlPp9JGpLYw0o967ZCIamn2myB5Cr_jIhYTKGNYn_Ph3oFEMSOpxa/s1600/IMG_7408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1BW0TVkdlWqJhDwVL5m5ofvB_wc8vW3XwxLbaO2UAB6qHtxun_uxxr7Yz7p1DuJj7b3Rrt44-7txh8r-riNd6R6LlPp9JGpLYw0o967ZCIamn2myB5Cr_jIhYTKGNYn_Ph3oFEMSOpxa/s400/IMG_7408.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> You can put as much as you like - I like a lot of sauce... <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiO0s2twLlXqOGe9znvqovAiVe_rzLf2J7Za55q-lVIkJ-Onc-9z1oNGDMToiAzJ4gbQYRPFU9hpZsrA_zKyZDRBU9M0t24ygSHSqcMLy3z0YYoc-6g12fdJPvZNsPt7POKYbZtuko9cp-/s1600/IMG_7413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiO0s2twLlXqOGe9znvqovAiVe_rzLf2J7Za55q-lVIkJ-Onc-9z1oNGDMToiAzJ4gbQYRPFU9hpZsrA_zKyZDRBU9M0t24ygSHSqcMLy3z0YYoc-6g12fdJPvZNsPt7POKYbZtuko9cp-/s400/IMG_7413.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Add mozzarella cheese.  Again, you can put as little or as much as you'd like.  I tried to slice the fresh mozzarella thinly to make it melt easily.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOMl4Pxxdo00Us8UH0T9C8NxtVx54WdwfKvfIb_PgbSRZXJuqxeq8HOANU65fITLZaoWC3mhd51W5XWXj1xkHhcx-G8sTVjqIvqKUD02HvzHKCIgjWWM9oY10Op5pQNOyRLNRR6pHKK2V/s1600/IMG_7419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOMl4Pxxdo00Us8UH0T9C8NxtVx54WdwfKvfIb_PgbSRZXJuqxeq8HOANU65fITLZaoWC3mhd51W5XWXj1xkHhcx-G8sTVjqIvqKUD02HvzHKCIgjWWM9oY10Op5pQNOyRLNRR6pHKK2V/s400/IMG_7419.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Sprinkle a pinch of dried herbs over the cheese and sauce.<br /><br />Bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes (for 8 inch pizza).  You may need to cook longer for larger pizza or thicker sauce.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfNAorR50NekaJ-ehA4xHSV1VwLmFiU7t0YWd4HsRikGTKmERyLOOt_GXApUNGT1LbnxcCjgtFyuksXIoYMOI9wkhuz8_jafouksn31lmGRkarzv8fx47BGNrncaPQ5JZ_8VWybQSNdNc/s1600/IMG_7468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfNAorR50NekaJ-ehA4xHSV1VwLmFiU7t0YWd4HsRikGTKmERyLOOt_GXApUNGT1LbnxcCjgtFyuksXIoYMOI9wkhuz8_jafouksn31lmGRkarzv8fx47BGNrncaPQ5JZ_8VWybQSNdNc/s640/IMG_7468.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Top with fresh basil and grated parmesan cheese. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8X4b9bUsyJNwiXjCgzuaX6q1N0viCV0KbGaEdEAV6SozYoDVbGSH5mUDC91uvQjINIoWpu9uUW0hQ_aIMbnCVobLgUKyoGPTyVeI-y_glW5QLAH6YydTju44F0XhbQTt7-bEUuZmLHRi/s1600/IMG_7595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ITutgxDJlgp98flao6kHG2xrQ2OJiGH3qEtnVAq-8uNDYq0XXPoc2YzsGpt7278o3N18tmEvhXmpmc0qj3lrwD0wgvUbF_zhPWvlrg3gG9H4V8LS_wvTxgbu3XixUVRzu6nZ2QmfX8Zd/s1600/IMG_7543.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3B64841R9g0-jVTIZqFzPtYnjMOmqu3t9sdMn6UGjxKzbantnixlCoANyTEvEkDhtMQPCsw7AdKdbxESSaP-KYtybSC0PDVAejialvfREu-OfM5FhizcvNQUq-X85dIM6aTwYAYo_nMnm/s1600/IMG_7595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3B64841R9g0-jVTIZqFzPtYnjMOmqu3t9sdMn6UGjxKzbantnixlCoANyTEvEkDhtMQPCsw7AdKdbxESSaP-KYtybSC0PDVAejialvfREu-OfM5FhizcvNQUq-X85dIM6aTwYAYo_nMnm/s640/IMG_7595.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8X4b9bUsyJNwiXjCgzuaX6q1N0viCV0KbGaEdEAV6SozYoDVbGSH5mUDC91uvQjINIoWpu9uUW0hQ_aIMbnCVobLgUKyoGPTyVeI-y_glW5QLAH6YydTju44F0XhbQTt7-bEUuZmLHRi/s1600/IMG_7595.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a> <br />This recipe is part of my Homemade Pizza Party - a $40 Dinner Party Menu.  Get the shopping list here :<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/homemade-pizza-party-for-grown-ups-40.html">Homemade Pizza Party Menu & Shopping List >></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/pesto-shrimp-pizza-recipe-homemade.html">Shrimp Pesto Pizza Recipe >></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/margarita-pizza-recipe-homemade-pizza.html">Margarita Pizza Recipe >></a><br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/goat-cheese-caramelized-onion-pizza.html">Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Pizza Recipe >></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8X4b9bUsyJNwiXjCgzuaX6q1N0viCV0KbGaEdEAV6SozYoDVbGSH5mUDC91uvQjINIoWpu9uUW0hQ_aIMbnCVobLgUKyoGPTyVeI-y_glW5QLAH6YydTju44F0XhbQTt7-bEUuZmLHRi/s1600/IMG_7595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>

Margarita Pizza Recipe | Homemade | Pizza Party | Budget Friendly Dinner Party Idea

Margarita Pizza There is something so good about a fresh margarita pizza.  Maybe the simplicity.  Maybe the cheese.  Probably the cheese and...

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Homemade Pizza Party for Grown Ups | $40 Dinner Party | Budget Friendly Dinner Party Menu Idea

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3B64841R9g0-jVTIZqFzPtYnjMOmqu3t9sdMn6UGjxKzbantnixlCoANyTEvEkDhtMQPCsw7AdKdbxESSaP-KYtybSC0PDVAejialvfREu-OfM5FhizcvNQUq-X85dIM6aTwYAYo_nMnm/s1600/IMG_7595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3B64841R9g0-jVTIZqFzPtYnjMOmqu3t9sdMn6UGjxKzbantnixlCoANyTEvEkDhtMQPCsw7AdKdbxESSaP-KYtybSC0PDVAejialvfREu-OfM5FhizcvNQUq-X85dIM6aTwYAYo_nMnm/s640/IMG_7595.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8X4b9bUsyJNwiXjCgzuaX6q1N0viCV0KbGaEdEAV6SozYoDVbGSH5mUDC91uvQjINIoWpu9uUW0hQ_aIMbnCVobLgUKyoGPTyVeI-y_glW5QLAH6YydTju44F0XhbQTt7-bEUuZmLHRi/s1600/IMG_7595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br />Homemade Pizza Party<br /><br />Remember in grade school when Pizza Parties were really something special - a treat for the whole class if everyone got a 100% on the spelling test, a Friday night sleep over, a get-together after your first game.  College my have ruined my desire for mass made delivery pizzas (except I still LOVE Pizza Hut - one of the only chain restaurants we had in Lex, Mo), but I have a new love for gourmet style pizzas.<br /><br />Here is the menu I created for a Homemade Pizza Party* - for grown-ups... well, sort of.<br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>*This is also one of my $40 Dinner Party Ideas - get the shopping list below!</i></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHBoPWJkNE-M5aOLHmjLtRK-5BMjo0mVPSWMjiVSKdQugJBSsn3gefDLOnx_R31L-49SESFpeWY4DLpJ-j4QdLopwQvjPLddDpUEOfw9h9_rcizElcIDS084ZG_ZN0xVU5vO9Bqy1Nj7a/s1600/IMG_7568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHBoPWJkNE-M5aOLHmjLtRK-5BMjo0mVPSWMjiVSKdQugJBSsn3gefDLOnx_R31L-49SESFpeWY4DLpJ-j4QdLopwQvjPLddDpUEOfw9h9_rcizElcIDS084ZG_ZN0xVU5vO9Bqy1Nj7a/s320/IMG_7568.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/pesto-shrimp-pizza-recipe-homemade.html">Shrimp Pesto Pizza</a><br /><br />Pizza dough spread generously with homemade pesto, shrimp and parmesan cheese.<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/pesto-shrimp-pizza-recipe-homemade.html">Shrimp Pesto Pizza Recipe >></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3DPl52Z-bCMPAV-r1Ab_xLgDHFslffM_rrIxloG6tMYAt0KvqxSkzczXOXfLn2OBHpkefZC6I22BDNUuAuZf3Eg45CMtK4CfhYTPf110UE7DmEAlIhmGE_vYugH8QtSXmvttALZO3mBt/s1600/IMG_7450.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EupD500cBrFBTNBIebgQQ1nANacQqXpTAshhxmemWX0mehQObFo5t07DN8b7B5VR40Idqks1M_u2qrbHakFe45j5fiqGubUefKJSE7U8LuyIcsMtayQ9Zi9Le15JOIosT0RW97xS-sAJ/s1600/IMG_7446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EupD500cBrFBTNBIebgQQ1nANacQqXpTAshhxmemWX0mehQObFo5t07DN8b7B5VR40Idqks1M_u2qrbHakFe45j5fiqGubUefKJSE7U8LuyIcsMtayQ9Zi9Le15JOIosT0RW97xS-sAJ/s320/IMG_7446.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3DPl52Z-bCMPAV-r1Ab_xLgDHFslffM_rrIxloG6tMYAt0KvqxSkzczXOXfLn2OBHpkefZC6I22BDNUuAuZf3Eg45CMtK4CfhYTPf110UE7DmEAlIhmGE_vYugH8QtSXmvttALZO3mBt/s1600/IMG_7450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/margarita-pizza-recipe-homemade-pizza.html">Margarita Pizza</a><br /><br />A simple Italian classic - crushed tomato sauce topped with fresh mozzarella and fresh basil.<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/margarita-pizza-recipe-homemade-pizza.html">Margarita Pizza Recipe >></a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiJw1i2evoTTLfjwPagDxO2QkrbqYMcWuy5U7p_d-X9iGjTva_VDi1VbWtvpHQb8ryPpKcoM0EXE0nlXbVc9Z93uSkw44B_sOWWi1HVV4ANqI6udYBKqeGhbGqh04gDGWdnxbsUkDnpsbz/s1600/IMG_7550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiJw1i2evoTTLfjwPagDxO2QkrbqYMcWuy5U7p_d-X9iGjTva_VDi1VbWtvpHQb8ryPpKcoM0EXE0nlXbVc9Z93uSkw44B_sOWWi1HVV4ANqI6udYBKqeGhbGqh04gDGWdnxbsUkDnpsbz/s320/IMG_7550.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/goat-cheese-caramelized-onion-pizza.html">Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Pizza</a><br /><br />Tangy goat cheese and sweet caramelized onions make this pizza sooo good.  I like to top it with field greens dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for some extra texture and flavor.<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/goat-cheese-caramelized-onion-pizza.html">Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Pizza Recipe >></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Pizza Party Menu :<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/margarita-pizza-recipe-homemade-pizza.html">Margarita Pizza</a><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/pesto-shrimp-pizza-recipe-homemade.html">Shrimp Pesto Pizza</a><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/03/goat-cheese-caramelized-onion-pizza.html">Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Pizza</a><br />Italian Gelato<br /><br />Not only is this party idea fun for guests to attend (and easy on the host) it is budget friendly.  Here is the shopping list of everything you'll need for a party for 6 for about $40!<br /><br />$4  |  Pizza Dough - 2 portions of a large pizza size dough*<br />$1  |  1 14.5 oz. can of Crushed Tomatoes<br />$1  |  1 head of garlic<br />$4  |  parmesan cheese<br />$4  |  mozzarella cheese<br />$4  |  goat cheese<br />$4  |  fresh basil leaves<br />$5  |  1/2 pound of shrimp<br />$1  |  red onion<br />$3  |  field greens<br />$8  |  2 pints of italian gelato (maybe pistachio & chocolate?) <br /><br />Pantry Items Needed :<br /><br />- Olive Oil<br />- Balsamic Vinegar<br />- Dried Italian Herbs ($3 if you don't already have them)

Homemade Pizza Party for Grown Ups | $40 Dinner Party | Budget Friendly Dinner Party Menu Idea

Homemade Pizza Party Remember in grade school when Pizza Parties were really something special - a treat for the whole class if everyone got...

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Recipes | Quick Shrimp Pad Thai Inspired Recipe for $15

For dinner last night, I made this pad thai inspired shrimp recipe. The spicy, tangy lime juice and fresh vegetables make this dinner super satisfying. Total cost for this dinner is $15.<br /><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; border-collapse: collapse; color: #666666; font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 11px; white-space: pre;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/SS6hle1KXra1GCVRt61bFCfAK9BbK3koc3YNOcw0aBE?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0NsSR4iQNCbI1D5tbq8oB5hNar7o9swewr78Dmj2YsxMQoP_BzxTeb-uV4nREWxP5FdRCuS2bhDz6Mfqk3FVbVPJadDoYwDajFI_W-mwgpSjMHgxRagpPJfUWYVJP_R5XVi1dHcPHH2k/s600/IMG_0891.JPG" /></a></span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>2 tablespoons of oil (vegetable, olive...)</div><div>4 cloves of garlic, minced</div><div>1/2 cup of mushrooms</div><div>2 carrots, chopped</div><div>1/4 cup of baby corn</div><div>1/4 cup of water chestnuts</div><div>10 scallions, chopped</div><div>1 teaspoon of chili paste</div><div>3 limes, juiced</div><div>1 cup of water</div><div>2 tablespoons of brown sugar</div><div>1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes</div><div>2 tablespoons of soy sauce</div><div>1/2 pound of angel hair, linguine or rice noodles</div><div>1/4 cup of chopped peanuts</div><div><br /></div><div>Cook the pasta according to the directions.</div><div><br /></div><div>In a sauté pan, cook shrimp in oil with garlic for about 3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside. Add a bit more olive oil to the pan, if necessary, and saute the carrots, mushrooms, baby corn and water chestnuts for 2-3 minutes. </div><div><br /></div><div>Mix together chili paste, lime juice, brown sugar, red pepper flakes and soy sauce. Pour into saute pan with vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbly. Reduce heat.</div><div><br /></div><div>Add in scallions, shrimp & pasta. Toss. Garnish with chopped peanuts.</div><div><br /></div><div>Total cost = $15</div><div><br /></div>

Recipes | Quick Shrimp Pad Thai Inspired Recipe for $15

For dinner last night, I made this pad thai inspired shrimp recipe. The spicy, tangy lime juice and fresh vegetables make this dinner super...

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Recipes | Roasted Chicken with Lemon, Garlic & Thyme

<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande',serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 11px;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/TWhWqVn5shwgfllcrhcUIifAK9BbK3koc3YNOcw0aBE?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSbRhXwnEZy6tKP2flsRv-fIIX4ExFRN5-C9TtTsH1TYmL8QntQoMNKBjp2McZl1PC5swTR6847ORyACtDjosJ273h7VJey9tMNJyP9AKdltrIcWpGnFiHooPg9froSfKYIkYUJw5PWAk/s600/IMG_0869.JPG" /></a></span></span></span></div><div><br /></div>There is nothing better on rainy Sunday than a Classic Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Thyme... complete with mashed potatoes and gravy, of course.  I love to fix this when we're both home all day, because it makes the house smell so delicious.  Being just roasted chicken and vegetables, this is a relatively healthy dinner.  If you decide to go the mashed potatoes and gravy route (which I think you definitely should), you can control how much gravy and the amount of potatoes you prepare. <br /><br />Another reason I love this is because it requires very little prep (10 minutes to stuff everything in the chicken and chop the vegetables?) and even less clean up...  basically a one pot dinner.   Just be sure to allow 1 hour for roasting the chicken.   <br /><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Classic Roasted Chicken </span><br /><i>with Lemon & Thyme</i><br /><br /></div><div>3-4 pound whole Chicken</div><div>2 tablespoons of olive oil</div><div>1 teaspoon of Sea Salt</div><div>1 teaspoon of Pepper</div><div>1 head of garlic, cut in half</div><div>1 lemon, quartered</div><div>10 sprigs of thyme</div><div>3 carrots, largely chopped</div><div>1 yellow onion, quartered</div><div>10 mushrooms, halved<br />1 1/2 cups of chicken stock </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/qfZ0yCpewJr5seBvsYH6NSfAK9BbK3koc3YNOcw0aBE?feat=embedwebsite" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5kStbPzYkBnw9P2yTtA69uoTzdC8aQsZA47R7vY-iX9YrX6PSJUEVejjZt3Kvh9u_DY6jlKGM6WtAWJJywFFQtaFotUhEs2BsSgaspCKZjlr6mmHIbt0dC8L-8A4sAgRC3EJSq-Smt4I/s640/IMG_0826.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #666666; font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 11px; white-space: pre;"></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Sprinkle salt & pepper inside the chicken cavity, then stuff it with the garlic, lemon & thyme. Place it in a dutch oven. Place the vegetables around the chicken, then drizzle them and the chicken with olive oil. Salt & Pepper generously.<br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/-ufRVltitf6jPdNjJpmnXifAK9BbK3koc3YNOcw0aBE?feat=embedwebsite" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieko91JcooIE97jK3kpyv_zf9ho2Su_Z27WGtBst8ZJiiUi-WwVii6yQk8ieSgFkMSyZEuVSFC3ovMRCVGhyphenhyphenPgW3o5dyks3AMxumca4qrVy6PjtF6oVJ0wG-EL9jV-GOdMK8WJ8a8Uur4/s640/IMG_0829.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #666666; font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 11px; white-space: pre;"></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Roast at 425 degrees for 50-60 minutes (depending on the size of your chicken).   Remove the chicken from the pan, cover with foil and allow it to rest.  Place the dutch oven on the stove top on a medium heat. While stirring, add 2 tablespoons of flour to the fat drippings from the chicken, then 1 - 1 1/2 cups of chicken stock. Whisk until smooth. Cook 5 minutes until thick and bubbly. If you'd like to thicker gravy, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the microwave, then add 2-3 tablespoons of flour to it.  Mix it in with the gravy.  </div><div><br /></div>

Recipes | Roasted Chicken with Lemon, Garlic & Thyme

There is nothing better on rainy Sunday than a Classic Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Thyme... complete with mashed potatoes and gravy, of c...

Read more »