Saturday, September 12, 2009

Pineapple Casserole - A Taste of Yellow

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I have a lot to say about this simple little dish.


It tastes awesome.


My sister gave me the recipe a few years ago and tried to convince me of that fact. But I couldn't wrap my head around the flavors of pineapple and cheese.


I don't know what my problem was. My sister is an awesome cook. She can put together flavors like an artist puts together colors.


Well sheeeeeit, she's a most excellent artist, seamstress and decorator as well. The girl is stacked with talent.


She takes after our mom.


Speaking of mom, this brings me to the other part of why today, of all days I chose to finally make the Pineapple Casserole.


I had a new visitor to my blog today so of course I had to take a peek to see what she's all about (good stuff cooking over at Jamies). Well, her post lead me to another blog....which lead to pineapple.


The other blog is Winos and Foodies. But....the key post was LiveStrong With A Taste of Yellow 2009.


In an effort to raise awareness of cancer issues, the foodies of the world are supporting the Lance Armstrong Foundation with their Taste of Yellow recipes.


Why me? Probably the same reason most others have chosen to do so.....in some form or another, cancer has touched my life.


My husbands mother did not survive her battle with cancer. I never had a chance to meet my mother in law.


My husbands grandmother passed away from cancer not that long after we got married. It was hard to see how quickly life changed for this vibrant woman....the core of the family.


My childhood friend....bestfriends through adulthood....my soul sister....fought for 6 years. I miss her terribly.


But thank God not all battles are lost. My own mother is still here. Years after her episode. She's even the "poster child" for the cancer facility that treated her. I love you mom!!


So...lets take a look at this Tasty Yellow dish (I swear...the pineapples are yellow!).


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1 20 oz can of pineapple chunks, drained
1 20 oz can of crushed pineapple, drained
5 tablespoons flour
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 to 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 1/2 cups ritz cracker crumbs
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted


Preheat your oven to 350'


I didn't have any ritz and I was too lazy to change out of my jammies in order to go to the store. So I used my Club crackers.


Grease a small casserole dish (about 11 x 7)


If you're paying attention to the pic below....these instructions begin at the top left corner and go clockwise...


Combine the pineapple, sugar, flour and cheese in a large bowl.
Pour into the casserole dish.
Top with cracker crumbs and drizzle the melted butter over the top.
Bake for about 30 minutes.


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Simple as that. The end.


And you know what? This shit is incredible!!


Let me introduce you to the new love of my life......


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