Fun and Spooky Halloween Appetizers

Halloween will be here in less than two weeks from now. Here are some wickedly delicious treats, dips and drinks to start your Halloween party off right! Simply click on the name to view the recipe. I can’t wait to try the Ghostly pizza this year – it’s adorable and looks absolutely delicious!

Ghostly Pizza

 

Olive Spiders

 

Blood-Bath Punch

 

Cauldron Full of Devilish Dip
  

 

Bat Bites

Recipes and photos are courtesy of All You.
For more fun and creative Halloween recipes, please visit All You.

Spicy Black Beans and Rotel Recipe

I have been living with uncontrolled high blood pressure since my son was born two years ago. It is extremely important for me to monitor the amount of sodium I consume. To really take control, I have started preparing and cooking my own meals.

I typically don’t eat beans. I have never cared much for the taste or texture. One food I do love is spicy food, no matter what it is. So the idea of adding Rotel to black beans popped into my head. I eat this at least once a day, more when I can. It tastes delicious, it’s very simple and takes less than 10 minutes to prepare and cook.

Not only does it taste delicious, but the black beans in this meal offer wonderful health benefits. Black beans are heart healthy, packed full of cholesterol- lowering soluble fiber, stabilize blood sugar levels, are high in iron, help increase energy, fill you up fast and keep you feeling full longer and are packed full of healthy protein. Not only that, but they are high in antioxidants, rich in Molybdenum, high in Folate (Vitamin B6). Since black beans are high in fiber, high fiber, low fat, and have around 85 calories per 1/2 cup service, they may also help you lose weight. When I’m craving something I know is unhealthy, I opt for a bowl of black beans instead. They always seem to hit the spot and give me a quick energy boost and complete satisfaction. I hope you’ll try recipe. Once you do, I’m sure you will be making it on a regular basis!

~ Spicy Black Beans ~

Ingredients:

• 1 15.5 oz. can low sodium beans (I use whatever is on sale but any low sodium brand will do)  
• 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp. cumin
• 1 can (10 oz.) ROTEL Hot ( Diced Tomatoes with Habaneros)
• 1/4 cup finely diced red or white onion

Directions:

Drain black beans; rinse with water.

Add Beans to a cooking pot and heat cook on low-medium heat.

Use a slotted spoon to scoop the tomatoes and peppers from the Rotel. Add to your beans, but do not include the juices or the beans will become very runny.

Add the onion, cumin and pepper.

Continuously stir until beans are hot, usually about 5-8 minutes.

Enjoy alone, with low-sodium tortilla chips or top your favorite salad for a southwestern twist!

( Mild Rotel can be used for a milder version. No onions? No Problem- use cilantro instead!)

Summer Antipasto Salad Recipe

What better way to enjoy a hot summer day than with a delicious bowl of Antipasto Salad? I cannot wait to try this recipe! Thanks to Mother of Pearl It Is, you can find out how to whip up this tasty, healthy salad in no time at all.

Summer Antipasto Salad Recipe

Avocado Hummus Recipe

Hummus is a natural, vegan food than can pair well with nearly any diet. The main  ingredient in Hummus are Chickpeas, which are an excellent source of fiber. You can find countless Hummus variations in stores, but I prefer the taste of fresh, homemade Hummus. As much as I enjoy, Hummus, I also enjoy avocados, which are full of healthy fats and have numerous health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, and improving overall heart health. I have paired the two together for a delicious, healthy, gluten-free snack which is far more tastier than any store bought Hummus.

INGREDIENTS

1/2 lb cooked chickpeas, drained
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 tbsp Tahini
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt
1 large avocado

PREPARATION

1. Cut avocado in half, and remove pit.
2. Drain beans and rinse until water runs clear. Puree beans and garlic in a food processor.
3. Add remaining ingredients and process until smooth and creamy. Add more salt and/or lemon juice if desired.
4. Transfer to a container, cover and chill until ready to serve.

Tuna Stuffed -Tomato Recipe

When it comes to healthy eating, canned tuna has it all- It is packed full of protein and is low in fat and calories. Tuna is an excellent source of essential omega 3-fatty acids, which research has shown decreases the risk of abnormal heartbeats, which can lead to sudden death. Omega-3 fatty acids also play a key role in decreasing triglyceride levels (cholesterol), slow growth of atherosclerotic plaque, and lower blood pressure.

Protein will help fill you up faster and you will stay full longer. Here is a very quick and easy recipe that is great for a mid- morning or afternoon snack,  lunch, or even dinner.


INGREDIENTS
2 Roma Tomatoes, halved
1/4 Cup Canned Tuna in Water, drained
1 Teaspoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Ground Pepper, to taste
Sea Salt, to taste
2 Teaspoons Sliced Fresh Chives

PREPARATION

1. In a small bowl, add your drained tuna, olive oil, salt and pepper and stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
2. Scoop out the insides of your tomatoes with a melon baller.
3. Fill with tuna and top with chives. Add more salt and/ or pepper if desired.

Another favorite recipe of mine is my Spicy Southern Tuna Boats or S.S Tuna :)  Tuna tastes great alone, but it's always more fun to find foods to fill it with!

If you prefer a little spice in your Tuna, try adding Tony Chachere's Original Creole Seasoning. I honestly use this on every entree I eat. Another nice alternative to this recipe is adding a few sprinkles of your favorite cheese to the top. Then, place your tuna- stuffed tomatoes in the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes.

Tuesday's Tasty Treats - Cheddar Chicken

Growing up, my mother tried to teach me to cook, but I insisted I could live off of Ramen Noodles forever. If my family would let me, I would probably cook them every night. My husband would wither away if all I cooked was Ramen Noodles. I am not creative in the kitchen and I prefer to cook meals that are quick and easy. One of those quick meals is a simple, yet scrumptious coated chicken.


Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed Special K / Cornflakes cereal
• 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1/8 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Add cornflakes to a large ziplock bag and crush until flakes.
3. Mix cornflakes, parmesan cheese and cheddar cheese.
4. Dip the chicken breasts in melted butter, then roll in the cornflake crumb mixture.
5. Place chicken in a lightly greased baking dish.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 - 40 minutes, until juices run clear.

Enjoy!

How To Make Chili's Monterey Chicken

Chili's Monterey Chicken is a quick and easy recipe that will have your mouth watering with every bite. Melted cheese, real bacon, and a few drops of barbecue sauce is all you need for this recipe. This recipe was created per the serving, so add accordingly.

Ingredients

• 1 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
• 2 tsp. Barbecue Sauce
• 3 slices of Medium Cooked Bacon
• 1/4 cup Monterey Jack /Sharp Cheddar Cheese Blend

Preparation

1. Season chicken breast with salt and pepper, to taste.

2. Spray skillet with Pam.

3. Cook chicken on medium high heat for around 6-8 minutes.

4. Transfer your chicken to a service plate. Top with barbecue sauce, bacon and cheese.

5. Broil chicken breast until cheese is melted. This should only take a minute or 2. Alternatively, you may melt the cheese in a microwave. Add a few chilled chopped tomatoes and chives.

Enjoy!

No - Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookie Recipe

These cookies are not the prettiest, but they are definitely the most delicious cookies I have ever tasted! I remember my grandma always use to make these before we came over to visit. It wasn't until recently that she shared how easy these are to make. I love these cookies not only because they are so sweet and yummy, but there is no baking required. Now, that's my kind of cookie! I hope you enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 2½ cups of old fashioned oats
  
• 2 cups of Sugar
• 1/2 cup of Peanut Butter
• 1 Stick of Margarine
• 1/3 cup cocoa
• 1/2 cup of Milk

Preparation

1. Line counter surface or table with wax paper.

2. In large saucepan, combine sugar, margarine, milk and cocoa. Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Continue boiling for 3 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in oats. Mix quickly otherwise the mixture will begin to harden.

4. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto waxed paper. Allow the cookies to cool and harden before removing.

5. Devour and Enjoy!

Spicy Southern Tuna Boat Recipe

S.S Tuna Boat Recipe
Spicy Southern Tuna Boat

This recipe is one of my favorites! Several years ago, a girlfriend of mine offered me a tuna sandwich. When I saw her using ranch dressing instead of mayonnaise, I told her no way! She talked me into it, and I have been using ranch as a substitute ever since. If you are trying to watch your sodium intake, you may want to pass on this recipe. Otherwise, if you are daring enough, I hope you will try it. No one in my family liked tuna until they tried this. Now they are always begging me to make it. I hope you enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 2 Celery Stalks
• 1 Small Onion or 1/2 cup peeled
• 2 Boiled Egg Whites
• Chunk Light Tuna, Drained
• 2 Tsp Pepper
• 1 Tsp Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning
• 1/4 Tsp Paprika
• Pinch of Cajun seasoning or substitute for chili powder
• 1/4 Tsp Seasoned Salt
• 1/4 Cup of Ranch Dressing
• 1/2 Small Jalapeno
• 1 Large Green Bell Pepper, cut into 4 even sections
  

Directions:

• Cut celery, onion, and jalapeno into small enough pieces to be tossed in a food processor.
  
• Add tuna, celery, onion, jalapeno, tomato, eggs white and seasoning to the food processor and process until your reach desired consistency. I prefer mine a bit more runny and usually process for 15-30 seconds. If you like a chunky texture, process time should be able 5-10 seconds.
  
• Spread tuna on bell pepper & enjoy!

Note: Also tastes great with melted American cheese on top!

Wingstop French Fry Recipe

In my opinion, Wingstop has the most amazing french fries! When I first tasted them, I immediately noticed the sweet taste. Ah ha! So their secret is sugar?! I went home and tried this for myself. I can't even tell a difference. This is so easy and absolutely delicious!

Here is what you will need:
4 Large Potatoes (cut into large fries)
Lawry's Seasoned Salt
Pinch of Granulated Sugar
Vegetable Oil

Directions:
1. Add the vegetable oil to your deep fryer.
2. Preheat the fryer to 320 degrees F.
3. Submerge the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you finish cutting the potatoes.
4. Add your cut potatoes into the fryer basket. Be sure to leave enough room for them to cook without sticking together.
5. Line a plate with several paper towels to soak up the grease.
6. Cook your fries for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Remove fries and place on your lined plate.
7. Lightly coat your fries with your seasoned salt followed by a pinch of sugar.

Variations: Potatos are potoatoes. You may use which ever type you prefer. I buy what ever is on sale. These are great with our without the skin. Definitely start with just a small pinch of sugar. In this case, a little goes a long way. Add more if desired.

Pistachio Cake Recipe

St. Patrick's Day is tomorrow and I've found the most delicious recipe- Pistachio Cake! Everyone is sure to be impressed once you bake this mouth-watering cake. I haven't made it yet, but I love pistachios and I can't wait to try this! There are several ways you can tweak this recipe to create your desired taste.

Want to find out how to make a Pistachio Cake yourself?
Visit All Recipes for the complete recipe.

Photos courtesy of Allrecipes.com

Spicy Turkey Sandwich - Tuesday's Tasty Treat

You may be wondering why I don't have a picture of the actual sandwich. Well, I made the last one last night and forgot to take a picture. I will post one soon!

Last week while looking for something to eat, I found a bunch of "Mexican Night" leftovers, but I didn't want Mexican food so I decided to make a sandwich with the ingredients. There are so many substitutes and alternatives you can try.
Here is what I used for my Spicy Turkey Sandwich:

1 fresh roll from the deli
Spicy wholly guacamole
Turkey Slices
Prepackaged Pico De Gallo
Tomato Slices
Lettuce
Salt and Pepper

1.) Spread the guacamole over the bread like you would if it were mustard or mayo.
2.) Add a slice of turkey to each side of the bread, then add salt and pepper.
3.) Add your Pico De Gallo
4.)Add another slice of turkey and tomato slices.
5.) Add your lettuce
6.) Finish off with another slice of turkey.
7.) Enjoy!

I use salt and pepper between each layer, but you can season to taste. There are so many alternatives you can enjoy with this sandwich. The one ingredient you shouldn't leave out is the guacamole. I add extra fresh jalapeno slices to mine. This is so delicious, I need to go to the grocery store to pick up the stuff to make it again! This is the quick version. If you prefer, you can make the guacamole and pico yourself.I will post my picture when I make this again. If you like spicy foods, you will love this!

Tuesday's Tasty Treats - Sweet Potato Fries

Okay, so these aren't exactly "healthy" but they are a great alternative to regular french fries. You won't want to eat them everyday, but eating them occasionally will satisfy your cravings without sabotaging your diet.

Here is what you will need:

4 Large Sweet Potatoes (cut into large fries)
2 Tsp Italian Seasoning
Pinch of Sea Salt
Pinch of Fresh or Ground Pepper

1/2 Tsp Lemon Pepper

3 Tbsp Olive Oil

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400F.
2. Drizzle fries with olive oil then sprinkle your seasonings over them.
3. Bake for 35-45 minutes turning once.
4. Enjoy!

Tuesday's Tasty Treats

B.L.T Salad

Ingredients:
♦ 2 Lg. Tomatoes, Chopped
♦ 4 Hard-Boiled Eggs Sliced in Half
♦ 1/2 Pound Bacon, Cooked/Crumbled
♦ 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless, Chicken Breast, Grilled and sliced
♦ 8 Cups Salad Greens
♦ 4 Tablespoons Chopped Onion
♦ 1/2 Cup Real Mayonnaise
♦ 6 Tablespoons Barbecue Sauce
♦ 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
♦ 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper

Directions:
♦ In a large bowl, combine the last five ingredients.
♦ Cover and refrigerate until serving.
♦ Place salad greens in individual bowls/plates. Add tomatoes, chicken and bacon. Garnish with egg and dressing.

Tuesday's Tasty Treats

Balsamic Bruschetta

Prep Time: 15M / Ready in 15-60M

Ingredients:

8 Roma Tomatoes, Diced

1/3 Cup Chopped Basil

1/4 Cup Grated or Shredded Parmesan Cheese
2 Cloves Garlic, Minced
1 Tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar
1 Teaspoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 Teaspoon Sea Salt
1/4 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
1 Loaf French Bread, Toasted and sliced

Directions:

1. In a bowl, toss tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
   
2. Add the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sea salt and pepper to your bowl and mix.
3. Serve on toasted bread.

Note: Bruchetta also pairs great with bagels, pita chips, or Ritz crackers. For added flavor, let mix marinate for 30m-90m

Nutritional Information:

Speaking of Salsa...

I mentioned in my previous post, how much I love Chili's salsa. Here is a recipe that tastes identical. If I'm not swinging by Chili's Curbside for chips and salsa to go, I am making this at home.


Ingredients:

2 Can Tomatoes(14.5 oz can)
2 Can Whole Peeled Tomatoes (14.5 oz can, plus the juice)
4 Tbsp Fresh Jalapenos
1/2 C. Yellow or White Onion (minced)
1/2 – 3/4 tsp. Garlic Salt
1/4 tsp. Cumin
1/4 tsp. Sugar

Place in a food processor or blender. Process for a few seconds, making sure not to puree. Place in container, cover and chill. Best when chilled for a several of hours.

Serve with your favorite thin corn tortilla chips.

Wait, There's More...

Here's a recipe that comes pretty darn close to Chili's Skillet Queso.

For recipe instructions on how to make this Queso, click Here.