White Cheddar & Parmesan Cauliflower Gratin

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii-6Y8nuOoS55RQNKV-f-Z41AUm6O-31lUBFq9SpR5iPG5U3Kle06wyej4TpxcsVwwHO0a2LNcTG72ih7FnFlUNF3qzBOQx54g8NtC21xmFpVB0RS9U1b5ktuEgSqgd2CLfc3KDB4ojNI/s1600/IMG_1358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii-6Y8nuOoS55RQNKV-f-Z41AUm6O-31lUBFq9SpR5iPG5U3Kle06wyej4TpxcsVwwHO0a2LNcTG72ih7FnFlUNF3qzBOQx54g8NtC21xmFpVB0RS9U1b5ktuEgSqgd2CLfc3KDB4ojNI/s640/IMG_1358.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I think there is something to be said for leaving room for dessert.  Don't get me wrong, there is nothing I like more than a giant plate filled with tummy filling carbs.  However, too many times when we entertain, we prepare too many filling, rich foods that our guests end up uncomfortably full, rather than pleasantly satisfied.  So, when I'm planning a menu I try to make sure I'm not going to over do it... without under-doing it of course. <br /><br />This Cauliflower Gratin is a perfect example.  It is the almost same sauce as Macaroni and Cheese, but because I knew we were starting our meal with Homemade Soft Pretzels and ending with cobbler and ice cream, I thought I would make a less filling (but just as delicious) version with cauliflower. <br /><br />Trust me, know one will even consider this a second best - the cheesy sauce is so fabulous and the bubbly crunchy top is addicting. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_rAM6L-78Mp2_h7SFsR6JGoKYD1x7QSg2xx0q45jnYu-aar4xZ5i2DiD1oQpzjkcLR9nAaqJQetXaM_xlWyfyR52w_E2NI66j-78LQGi2lG22tKAD9C5mzYurep0b5B2vw9Ro5DdRGA/s1600/IMG_1423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_rAM6L-78Mp2_h7SFsR6JGoKYD1x7QSg2xx0q45jnYu-aar4xZ5i2DiD1oQpzjkcLR9nAaqJQetXaM_xlWyfyR52w_E2NI66j-78LQGi2lG22tKAD9C5mzYurep0b5B2vw9Ro5DdRGA/s400/IMG_1423.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><i>White Cheddar & Parmesan </i><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Cauliflower Gratin</span><br /><br />1 head of cauliflower<br />1/2 stick of butter<br />2 cloves of garlic <br />1/4 cup of flour <br />2 cups of milk<br />6 ounces of shredded white cheddar<br />1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan<br />Salt & Pepper <br />1/4 cup panko bread crumbs<br />2 tablespoons of butter<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW4N193wmjlFMnzSnUQnXbMkiqsekkUpYlO4H0qgzbGOZnRwymuJ0zbs3KP_timBLW4-7kBWCE3h3ZOhVw3Pup7lvfWtl_zUl2PVIhqnv7vRkpuy58Y2bwhlUZ8hiLKjdWq7HMfP_RCeM/s1600/IMG_1365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW4N193wmjlFMnzSnUQnXbMkiqsekkUpYlO4H0qgzbGOZnRwymuJ0zbs3KP_timBLW4-7kBWCE3h3ZOhVw3Pup7lvfWtl_zUl2PVIhqnv7vRkpuy58Y2bwhlUZ8hiLKjdWq7HMfP_RCeM/s640/IMG_1365.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the cauliflower just until barely tender (1-2 minutes), then drain and pour into baking dish - I use a pie dish.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlonktKDjOhHcJvar0QmCA1hKC-QJ_hMPu_z1SgNyHFK24-5BfBH8b5MlrIORTTQH-Ba_Rs2LfsQHV8a-nBsEKrx3yStAACpdkGo58FwFR_F89nw6DpEjpyVg9-pX5U19BhQVpB2bV4A/s1600/IMG_1366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlonktKDjOhHcJvar0QmCA1hKC-QJ_hMPu_z1SgNyHFK24-5BfBH8b5MlrIORTTQH-Ba_Rs2LfsQHV8a-nBsEKrx3yStAACpdkGo58FwFR_F89nw6DpEjpyVg9-pX5U19BhQVpB2bV4A/s640/IMG_1366.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />To make the sauce (I used the same pan as I used for boiling) melt butter on medium, then add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.  Next add 1/4 cup of flour.  Stir constantly and cook for 1 minute.  Whisk in milk and stir until smooth.  Cook for 3-4 minutes on medium low until bubbly and slightly thickened.  Turn off heat.  Add cheddar and 1/4 cup of parmesan.  Stir in until cheese has melted.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.  Add more milk, if necessary. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlJiSzUbW0O6W-hekYoGrxuQ9rAE5FB-K1fm6IMh31Dt9bPHAM0u0iYX9Aj06FRz4WsM0XHnU_J17jOBAmvQ8uVA0koH9JfaaOo0MVVLmX9axp9FrugTCNYwMnv5rjSfosG5n2r6hwT4/s1600/IMG_1368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlJiSzUbW0O6W-hekYoGrxuQ9rAE5FB-K1fm6IMh31Dt9bPHAM0u0iYX9Aj06FRz4WsM0XHnU_J17jOBAmvQ8uVA0koH9JfaaOo0MVVLmX9axp9FrugTCNYwMnv5rjSfosG5n2r6hwT4/s640/IMG_1368.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Pour cheese sauce over cauliflower.  Top with bread crumbs, remaining 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese and dot with butter.  Bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees until sauce is bubbly and top is browned.  You may want to turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes to get an extra brown top.

White Cheddar & Parmesan Cauliflower Gratin

I think there is something to be said for leaving room for dessert.  Don't get me wrong, there is nothing I like more than a giant plate...

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Veggie Soup | Back to School Recipes | Italian Vegetable Soup

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJzUxhDtd1o_dXm9vxmibdCCZqTv5zVhJuWvvz7QpyUv6iNc19H28B6LRho-d1kJESK7ud1zJiJMCeo9rMq0U6eCNlBoYAPRIJyMXOEi6etXQI_44ZvZ2erASZwXIjlF2b9KiFPnpOi9OJ/s1600/Back-to-School-Recipes-3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJzUxhDtd1o_dXm9vxmibdCCZqTv5zVhJuWvvz7QpyUv6iNc19H28B6LRho-d1kJESK7ud1zJiJMCeo9rMq0U6eCNlBoYAPRIJyMXOEi6etXQI_44ZvZ2erASZwXIjlF2b9KiFPnpOi9OJ/s640/Back-to-School-Recipes-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is Back to School Season!  I've put together a <a href="http://www.jennysteffens.com/backtoschool.html">Back to School Guide</a> that will make the beginning of the school year more fun (and manageable!).  These make ahead dinners, easy breakfast recipes and simple desserts will get an A+ from your kids... and will pass the parent taste test, too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.jennysteffens.com/backtoschool.html">Click here to go directly to my Back to School Guide!</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">  </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUUSpY2SAjRAjHCGHpipuCM8mLwjJiKFTI1qVRqK6Iim7LZ4OvXsed1Kn3ii7PuWivAa6PmAa5YtqdCI8wsx4rKYRdS6SHw3h-zBKYSmE3rbnGqR9nQGWn59jecI_corJuvwlU5xFfwbvt/s1600/Pizza+Soup+%2526+Bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUUSpY2SAjRAjHCGHpipuCM8mLwjJiKFTI1qVRqK6Iim7LZ4OvXsed1Kn3ii7PuWivAa6PmAa5YtqdCI8wsx4rKYRdS6SHw3h-zBKYSmE3rbnGqR9nQGWn59jecI_corJuvwlU5xFfwbvt/s640/Pizza+Soup+%2526+Bread.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Veggies can be hard to incorporate into your kids' diet - who am I kidding?  They are hard to incorporate in my own diet.  Mike is more of a Meat-and-Potatoes kind of guy, and I'm a Pasta-for-Every-Meal kind of gal, so we are often finding ourselves vegetable starved.  This healthy vegetable soup is just what we need to get us back into the nutrient rich world.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Vegetable soup can be a hard sell on kids.  I can't remember ever being excited when my Mom said we were having vegetable soup for dinner.  It was just one of those menu items that was 'fine' but not something that I would have requested.  It is not like anyone would pick vegetable soup for their birthday dinner. <a name="more"></a></span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Soups become more appealing to kids when they're paired with something like grilled cheese, or... pizza.  Pizza?  Yes.  This Italian Vegetable Soup is the perfect complement to <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/08/pizza-bread-back-to-school-veggie-soup.html">Pizza Bread</a> - what kid wouldn't be excited about something called <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/08/pizza-bread-back-to-school-veggie-soup.html">Pizza Bread</a>?  Wait, what is <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/08/pizza-bread-back-to-school-veggie-soup.html">Pizza Bread</a>?  Here is the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/08/pizza-bread-back-to-school-veggie-soup.html">link to learn all about this mysterious wonder</a> that I'm pretty sure my Mom made up... and was one of our favorites when we were younger.  It was probably even requested for a birthday dinner or two.</span></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Back to the soup...</span></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm always so shocked how quick a soup comes together.  Unlike popular belief, soups don't take hours (or skill) to assemble and don't need hours to simmer on the stove.  This veggie soup comes together in just about 20 minutes, is budget friendly (coming in at a grand total of about $8) and it is something you can feel good about making for your family.  Hurray - they (and we) ate vegetables today!  </span></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Back to School Guide :</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Veggie Soup with <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/08/pizza-bread-back-to-school-veggie-soup.html">Pizza Bread</a></i></span><br /><br />2 tablespoons of olive oil <br />3 cloves of garlic<br /><br />1/4 cup of onion, diced<br />3 carrots, sliced<br />1 1/2 - 2 cups of green beans, 1-inch dice<br /><br />1 large can of whole, peeled tomatoes<br />1 14 oz. can of beef broth<br />1 teaspoon of dried Italian Herb seasoning<br />1/2 head of cabbage, shredded<br />3 cups of spinach<br />2 cups of water<br />Sea Salt & Pepper <br />1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)<br /><br />Begin by sauteing garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds on medium heat.  Add onions, carrots and green (or yellow) beans and raise heat to medium high.  Cook for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.<br /><br />Squeeze in tomatoes by hand, breaking them up into smaller chunks.  Pour in beef broth and add Italian Herb seasoning.  Add shredded cabbage and spinach, and pour in water.  Raise the heat to high and bring to slight boil, then reduce heat to medium.  Season with salt and pepper - I start with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, then add more if I need it.  Cook for 5-10 more minutes, until the vegetables are soft.  Add fresh basil just before serving.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI5yPkADDV-0FLQHaTjpfJSrQvt6-u6Ki-1Qk7v3ajFYdjsWCcvQCWkHnw98Eu8cXz5cOOLCtDOaf114dPiM-MyovnbHkOEC4Du5bZRP8sbFcrKOHKWaeQyicYw-hA3pGYV1n2fIEcv6fM/s1600/IMG_5007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI5yPkADDV-0FLQHaTjpfJSrQvt6-u6Ki-1Qk7v3ajFYdjsWCcvQCWkHnw98Eu8cXz5cOOLCtDOaf114dPiM-MyovnbHkOEC4Du5bZRP8sbFcrKOHKWaeQyicYw-hA3pGYV1n2fIEcv6fM/s640/IMG_5007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I love when my counter looks like this... <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmIwiMAQy4pVRV_EI_YZaZEMATVWR4JhO9kCDr9rEQ7NKV95fEL9UHHDAnBAEXIMmYHfawy1t7-iSAiXoU8zxyfKpSBqg74rzrY59FuvYSTqoQSZu2mT3Ysq34o7CVKYDCHqdZBY64NEG/s1600/IMG_5009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmIwiMAQy4pVRV_EI_YZaZEMATVWR4JhO9kCDr9rEQ7NKV95fEL9UHHDAnBAEXIMmYHfawy1t7-iSAiXoU8zxyfKpSBqg74rzrY59FuvYSTqoQSZu2mT3Ysq34o7CVKYDCHqdZBY64NEG/s640/IMG_5009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Fresh carrots from Verrill Farm.  Sometimes I don't even peel the carrots... my little secret.  In a soup like this, it hardly matters. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYyh8GLk0Vf5oe2mKOr76ubXybQg9GT0P-diwrpsFp_v0VOF632b7YNienvTN6VNtLyHLfmXU90jEtacBXiFKdbQ82L4K0E3mWHR9iWfkPLp79szW1In_xsmD9RK2X8brf2W8QZ0egtAl/s1600/IMG_5011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYyh8GLk0Vf5oe2mKOr76ubXybQg9GT0P-diwrpsFp_v0VOF632b7YNienvTN6VNtLyHLfmXU90jEtacBXiFKdbQ82L4K0E3mWHR9iWfkPLp79szW1In_xsmD9RK2X8brf2W8QZ0egtAl/s640/IMG_5011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I would typically use green beans, but I saw these yellow beans at the market and thought they'd be a great addition.   I snap off the ends, then cut them into 1-inch pieces.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCWeB-DD0Fx_lVp5TI7oOGcO8m1-6Cd0g_WvSvNpahjHH491b2LVhKxvTIsEWSmovxvPaL-Her-UQP9Jj13hvp4UEMPU-_c1yCZ8v7uUihFvy0LE224ST9E1GiZGColZgRU78W4-RhT7qX/s1600/IMG_5013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCWeB-DD0Fx_lVp5TI7oOGcO8m1-6Cd0g_WvSvNpahjHH491b2LVhKxvTIsEWSmovxvPaL-Her-UQP9Jj13hvp4UEMPU-_c1yCZ8v7uUihFvy0LE224ST9E1GiZGColZgRU78W4-RhT7qX/s640/IMG_5013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Start with garlic, then add beans, carrots and onions. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-rgKuzDGX5rBQX-TTDTlNtZtnUQHxnARMArEsqUo5QNEiA0TsSr-i-OPyi2q2qaVw8CmCWqffxIho3EB5AEG55jGMPFBAuhhyAPCAdPNMhIbRGL2WB7Te55AOnK0e7eAQuO3jXyTkJry/s1600/IMG_5014.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/AVvXsEjw8wEqvf17iVNatcdBAOxq3sO5TkGfDu-h5aKal5j-h9NEjUKuF4hlInq-f1o-qOUEV6rmEWejsdE9-w6cnUkP1YjnXspuM7NNPtCoerfeX16HTAVJgtZvGyUaI3XWf6tmaZtTjirY2oxh/s1600/IMG_5017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8wEqvf17iVNatcdBAOxq3sO5TkGfDu-h5aKal5j-h9NEjUKuF4hlInq-f1o-qOUEV6rmEWejsdE9-w6cnUkP1YjnXspuM7NNPtCoerfeX16HTAVJgtZvGyUaI3XWf6tmaZtTjirY2oxh/s640/IMG_5017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />After they've cooked a little bit, add tomatoes and beef broth. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEI4cYsMiwzif4WUMxrji-j7SRvYta0o7q9xm8qqd9ykeFQj68ppOhvTFeCZZeuuR526sN41Z24DhobwOz8IPmDz-XOjNqVovBUW9Nrhd8R3hsgnSdnAbzaaDOuplWfCtI8ZwJ_zeAInz/s1600/IMG_5019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEI4cYsMiwzif4WUMxrji-j7SRvYta0o7q9xm8qqd9ykeFQj68ppOhvTFeCZZeuuR526sN41Z24DhobwOz8IPmDz-XOjNqVovBUW9Nrhd8R3hsgnSdnAbzaaDOuplWfCtI8ZwJ_zeAInz/s640/IMG_5019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This can be a little messy, but the texture of hand squeezed tomatoes is worth it.  Just make sure you squeeze below the top of the pot so you don't end up wearing it... like I did in this photo. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7kG5yTHsKCr8bV114U5YKxbWRREp4W7VE1srFeZ9P6Nju4xNIfOLWkNjSNmhWn6bwvnkKIjqnAd-bmiRkgitRZ2W9kU5HQcJzumm11_LeiKw7vlVpWH2KxeibVDkAKdxFNFq91RKIWGkD/s1600/IMG_5028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7kG5yTHsKCr8bV114U5YKxbWRREp4W7VE1srFeZ9P6Nju4xNIfOLWkNjSNmhWn6bwvnkKIjqnAd-bmiRkgitRZ2W9kU5HQcJzumm11_LeiKw7vlVpWH2KxeibVDkAKdxFNFq91RKIWGkD/s640/IMG_5028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Beef Broth is added.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwMQE8JXBtvMrZkcLeih_z-R4e02eWGCiPZ1MF1XcuMd3kYDNpkjjy6aeGVHA1kLFa1oXvTpWedBBKrtX3FzntjVac-rxZYO8Pw37uLYNWLI6VYGLSXIJSblL7j1rNiCUj4i25SkZd-wL/s1600/IMG_5031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwMQE8JXBtvMrZkcLeih_z-R4e02eWGCiPZ1MF1XcuMd3kYDNpkjjy6aeGVHA1kLFa1oXvTpWedBBKrtX3FzntjVac-rxZYO8Pw37uLYNWLI6VYGLSXIJSblL7j1rNiCUj4i25SkZd-wL/s640/IMG_5031.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Shred the cabbage by slicing it then cut it in half. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJju3cC_0_nG0MLAlaAOsmnoJPm4FseVJFDx6U-hACvgZaGDBMTZUM7-Na0IRPb5UxFG5VZ4v5rNCMQUiGpoP2JpJtBjd-8yNVkQDybcxdSv5SfEJ6F0H5Gdo2ShxdHb0j3yeoBvr7MfsE/s1600/IMG_5034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJju3cC_0_nG0MLAlaAOsmnoJPm4FseVJFDx6U-hACvgZaGDBMTZUM7-Na0IRPb5UxFG5VZ4v5rNCMQUiGpoP2JpJtBjd-8yNVkQDybcxdSv5SfEJ6F0H5Gdo2ShxdHb0j3yeoBvr7MfsE/s640/IMG_5034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Add two cups of water.  Cook for 5-10 minutes, or until vegetables are soft.  This soup is great with grilled cheese, garlic bread or <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/08/pizza-bread-back-to-school-veggie-soup.html">pizza bread</a>. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUsZr8uiRu60_yM5iJNN7ZREOBy5-LSxY9d_DrYBKmZ9iMb3W3RA1niWYk7vS-b1RJCh7iulPmUjts9qIYlxaDUzEDTt3Axitg_Xz_UcQSqC9vE_DTD0LlvvZgZ8SP1pPImUIqFpDlayS/s1600/IMG_5075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUsZr8uiRu60_yM5iJNN7ZREOBy5-LSxY9d_DrYBKmZ9iMb3W3RA1niWYk7vS-b1RJCh7iulPmUjts9qIYlxaDUzEDTt3Axitg_Xz_UcQSqC9vE_DTD0LlvvZgZ8SP1pPImUIqFpDlayS/s640/IMG_5075.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDV1zD2XqOmioHF-v5CgVf1vtrbzMKowyX6jfN9s6PHl0EHd51SwhohVkDgyPjAc6HNIafCHqz7CfvWfD09s7qdI-heNTVOHAXjD64103iEj20OcdDV3B-Yy_CkTLRLj7blVTRN_JqFETm/s1600/IMG_5054.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/AVvXsEjJzUxhDtd1o_dXm9vxmibdCCZqTv5zVhJuWvvz7QpyUv6iNc19H28B6LRho-d1kJESK7ud1zJiJMCeo9rMq0U6eCNlBoYAPRIJyMXOEi6etXQI_44ZvZ2erASZwXIjlF2b9KiFPnpOi9OJ/s1600/Back-to-School-Recipes-3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJzUxhDtd1o_dXm9vxmibdCCZqTv5zVhJuWvvz7QpyUv6iNc19H28B6LRho-d1kJESK7ud1zJiJMCeo9rMq0U6eCNlBoYAPRIJyMXOEi6etXQI_44ZvZ2erASZwXIjlF2b9KiFPnpOi9OJ/s640/Back-to-School-Recipes-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is Back to School Season!  I've put together a <a href="http://www.jennysteffens.com/backtoschool.html">Back to School Guide</a> that will make the beginning of the school year more fun (and manageable!).  These make ahead dinners, easy breakfast recipes and simple desserts will get an A+ from your kids... and will pass the parent taste test, too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.jennysteffens.com/backtoschool.html">Click here to go directly to my Back to School Guide!</a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000036851708&pubid=21000000000393866"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Join me in giving back this Back-to-School season! </span></i></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000036851685&pubid=21000000000393866" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="15% Off Everything Now At DiscountSchoolSupply.com" border="0" src="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_impression?lid=41000000036851685&pubid=21000000000393866" /></a>Back-to-School season was such a fun time for me - especially <a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000036851708&pubid=21000000000393866"> Back-to-School shopping</a>.  I loved getting new binders, crazy pencils and pens, notebooks and of course, the all important backpack.  New creative gear was so inspiring to me - wait, it still is! It must be so hard for families going through tough times to get their kids excited about Back-to-School.   <br /><br />Join me in <a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000036851708&pubid=21000000000393866">giving back this Back-to-School</a> season!  Click on the link to the left, order some school supplies for your own kids (or your new organized office space/craft room...), then with the <a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000036851708&pubid=21000000000393866">15% off</a>, you can afford to spend a little extra to donate to someone less fortunate. 

Veggie Soup | Back to School Recipes | Italian Vegetable Soup

It is Back to School Season!  I've put together a Back to School Guide that will make the beginning of the school year more fun (and ...

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Farmers Market Table Setting | Farm to Table themed Summer Party

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgxOuTwpe3KC5bmQkbcMvZDR0G_V8SZH1NwswYte0oRoQKRIHOuCLKak1CiLOLZ9GOvWs_eT9Nm1kUHpT-psRMA18ZwsFoWcazeegC4t-WWbZPmf3k_UKW3ExN0_cpGX2e5a75hD3QX9S/s1600/Summer-Farm-to-Table_02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="604" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgxOuTwpe3KC5bmQkbcMvZDR0G_V8SZH1NwswYte0oRoQKRIHOuCLKak1CiLOLZ9GOvWs_eT9Nm1kUHpT-psRMA18ZwsFoWcazeegC4t-WWbZPmf3k_UKW3ExN0_cpGX2e5a75hD3QX9S/s640/Summer-Farm-to-Table_02.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9psvbOqhsHQXlXqEpZAJ66aMS9w_NTrwcxL7OJUsmFdqV_i6Zsp6kgYd97oipr4mhOeFI0mRjqrhCgSd3u4Jaapsx9B9GlEYJ_pURJiPNrOHIRAdBzwpPDdkX8wokh1gpPQJ3VRgF2h0h/s1600/IMG_4099.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/AVvXsEh9psvbOqhsHQXlXqEpZAJ66aMS9w_NTrwcxL7OJUsmFdqV_i6Zsp6kgYd97oipr4mhOeFI0mRjqrhCgSd3u4Jaapsx9B9GlEYJ_pURJiPNrOHIRAdBzwpPDdkX8wokh1gpPQJ3VRgF2h0h/s400/IMG_4099.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Summer Farmer's Market Table Setting:</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Farm to Table Themed Party</i></span><br /><br />Who says you have to go to the florist to put together a beautiful table for a party?  When I go to the farmer's markets, I am always amazed at how beautiful the vegetables are as they're all grouped together and displayed.  I decided to add this bountiful farmer's market style to my table for a Summertime "Farm to Market" dinner party.<br /><br />Did I mention that the menu has some of the same ingredients displayed on the table?  Talk about appetizing.<br /><br />Summertime Farm to Market Menu (recipes coming soon!):<br /><br /><a href="http://heirloom%20tomatoes%20with%20green%20goddess%20dressing/">Garden Tomatoes with Green Goddess Dressing</a><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/07/eggplant-recipes-eggplant-focaccia.html">Eggplant Focaccia Bread</a><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/07/corn-on-cob-with-basil-butter-summer.html">Corn on the Cob with Basil Butter</a><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/07/cucumbers-and-onions-classic-summer.html">Classic Cucumbers & Onions</a><br />Lemon & Chive Halibut in Parchment Bundles<br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/07/peach-crostata-simple-summer-peach.html">Peach Crostada with Vanilla Ice Cream</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO0GRt7iFjtR36SapS9zvKmy4BNTopcvMZfNzoan1jMTr1sCCcw-GWaqTVyuFx6FuxwRCCRIZQBx6Ryhcj_3qejXk_cLcWkKehVv4-UWGHGsHMK5wTmyHRrV1OyReffjWeOOB1Xluhi_G0/s1600/IMG_4158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO0GRt7iFjtR36SapS9zvKmy4BNTopcvMZfNzoan1jMTr1sCCcw-GWaqTVyuFx6FuxwRCCRIZQBx6Ryhcj_3qejXk_cLcWkKehVv4-UWGHGsHMK5wTmyHRrV1OyReffjWeOOB1Xluhi_G0/s640/IMG_4158.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I picked up these kitchen towels at William-Sonoma.  They make great rustic over-sized napkins... after all, who doesn't appreciate an over-sized napkin when you're eating corn on the cob?  The towels came in a package of 4 different patterns of stripes and plaids.  I love the navy and light blue combination with the clean clean white.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23j6glC7JYnJfxtdjjw8linmOkrD3QbltlxB3uqokMrT-9beTfIHSaaQJSEB8nAjd6UjoATi49P8kTJXgMoF-Awj-emDipgbc21-qrcHCbqrMcJ0LNWalrq5THz5540_Swy5irn2vtmoo/s1600/IMG_4177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23j6glC7JYnJfxtdjjw8linmOkrD3QbltlxB3uqokMrT-9beTfIHSaaQJSEB8nAjd6UjoATi49P8kTJXgMoF-Awj-emDipgbc21-qrcHCbqrMcJ0LNWalrq5THz5540_Swy5irn2vtmoo/s640/IMG_4177.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />I don't know about you, but sitting outside in this heat does not sound like a pleasant evening.  So, I brought the bounty of the season in doors.<br /><br />I set the table by putting a white hemstitch runner down the center.  All of the different colors, sizes and shapes of the vegetables could end up looking chaotic, so I needed the plain white runner to create a cohesive look.  A burlap runner would add a little more of a rustic style.  You can see the various patterns of the napkins in this shot.<br /><br />Again, to create a cohesive look, I put all of the vegetables in separate white bowls, then arranged them scattered down the table, separating each color by a complimenting color.  For example, I separated the bright pink radishes from the bright red orange tomato with pale colored potatoes and the neutral green ears of corn.<br /><br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWE_c2mI1Qgqsr7iD3ijowdLyJVQSg0Q9fdlhKnnKKpJOpypbTS-i5Db4opRkY3_TgG1PJFFVHdXzZ_2NQ_h5LKccCEjrRrkqkfChnHSwUX69ATog1pQWQJAI-yf9KpH1qlhyphenhyphenVx-MNDiZ/s1600/IMG_4103.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWE_c2mI1Qgqsr7iD3ijowdLyJVQSg0Q9fdlhKnnKKpJOpypbTS-i5Db4opRkY3_TgG1PJFFVHdXzZ_2NQ_h5LKccCEjrRrkqkfChnHSwUX69ATog1pQWQJAI-yf9KpH1qlhyphenhyphenVx-MNDiZ/s640/IMG_4103.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Left to Right :  A jar of homemade pickles, blue hydrangeas in a white creamer pitcher, peaches, round eggplant and cherry tomatoes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggP4fdu1OfxkzQ2wRSomm7BdzVKoBzhK3hlCMAP6CdYd1Ja9GTVRO6ndsIwmYCNsGZJGCUQwBJm1AQRRt809xyes6SA0U0lJRdLLZ38DD5ysQVjNKdrIWHOqzw2b1ynDKpp7dRmqib61Nu/s1600/IMG_4044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggP4fdu1OfxkzQ2wRSomm7BdzVKoBzhK3hlCMAP6CdYd1Ja9GTVRO6ndsIwmYCNsGZJGCUQwBJm1AQRRt809xyes6SA0U0lJRdLLZ38DD5ysQVjNKdrIWHOqzw2b1ynDKpp7dRmqib61Nu/s640/IMG_4044.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />The pickles are a take-home gift for our guests.  If you don't have time to make your own, buy some locally made berry jam and send your guests home with biscuits for breakfast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwD1y28p-XIZXAloZOD0t-zfnXlSC5T1-tFSBgde20o8kpl4a00wNNYPWfD40mFg2i2LU6DsKkydTqhtl-krI2p6-irIeDNKQtcOfX8QTrXOzFc3SnE9j0eJNKq22OBWitRtUgC0Y-eGa/s1600/IMG_4020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwD1y28p-XIZXAloZOD0t-zfnXlSC5T1-tFSBgde20o8kpl4a00wNNYPWfD40mFg2i2LU6DsKkydTqhtl-krI2p6-irIeDNKQtcOfX8QTrXOzFc3SnE9j0eJNKq22OBWitRtUgC0Y-eGa/s640/IMG_4020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The radishes are so beautiful - such a rich shade of pink. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyw8qgmi4ikws_1cIqrxQWokzVWHJgbPmnBgrj1zove28F0FR35jinNW5l-SeHwfjrIQakvV9J94uBb9mqnokPXA_0pJ_Zb5ebaT585vDMB20ZIz29uVLTGyWeuUrmGUqjq8na8FGI-PxY/s1600/IMG_4023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyw8qgmi4ikws_1cIqrxQWokzVWHJgbPmnBgrj1zove28F0FR35jinNW5l-SeHwfjrIQakvV9J94uBb9mqnokPXA_0pJ_Zb5ebaT585vDMB20ZIz29uVLTGyWeuUrmGUqjq8na8FGI-PxY/s640/IMG_4023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I hope this table inspires your next Summer party!  Stay tuned for recipes to serve at your Summertime Farm to Market dinner party! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWE_c2mI1Qgqsr7iD3ijowdLyJVQSg0Q9fdlhKnnKKpJOpypbTS-i5Db4opRkY3_TgG1PJFFVHdXzZ_2NQ_h5LKccCEjrRrkqkfChnHSwUX69ATog1pQWQJAI-yf9KpH1qlhyphenhyphenVx-MNDiZ/s1600/IMG_4103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>

Farmers Market Table Setting | Farm to Table themed Summer Party

Summer Farmer's Market Table Setting: Farm to Table Themed Party Who says you have to go to the florist to put together a beautiful tabl...

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