Creamy Stove-Top Alfredo with Bacon and Green Beans #SundaySupper

As the days get cooler (and I use that term lightly here in Los Angeles) we tend to seek foods that are comforting and warm.

Today's Sunday Supper is all about warming trends. With temps still in the upper 80's and 90's around here, I'm going to define "warming trends" as being warmed from the soul.

Alfredo seems to do that for me.

It took a while for it to dawn on me that my most favorite Italian dish is anything Alfredo. A nice warm plate of creamy Alfredo and pasta, with or without meat and vegetables just makes me happy. Add bacon to the mix and we have ourselves a whole new level of yum!

That brings me to this lovely, super easy, one skillet, soul warming dish.

Creamy Stove-Top Alfredo with Bacon and Green Beans #SundaySupper

Inspired by Better Homes and Garden magazine "One-Pan Recipes"
Printable Version

4 slices thick-sliced bacon, coarsely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
8 oz pasta, uncooked (recommended: rigatoni, penne, rotini)
1 cup green beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
14.5 oz chicken broth
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 - 1/3 cup cream (I used half and half)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
grated Parmesan cheese
Crumbled, crisp-cooked bacon

Before I get started, I always like to get all of the ingredients prepared and measured. Makes the whole process of cooking run so much smoother.

In a very large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until nice and crispy. Add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Drain off the fat (I left a little in there for flavor) and add the pasta, green beans, chicken broth, water, salt and pepper.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring once. 

Stir in the cream and cheese. Cook and stir for 2 minutes to heat things through and get the cheese all melted. 

Garnish with more cheese and bacon crumbles if desired and serve. 

Below you'll find over 40 recipes that are sure to warm you up, whether its from the inside out, or from the soul.

Beverages

• Drunken Pumpkin Spice Latte by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
• Hot Mulled Caramel Apple Sangria by The Crumby Cupcake
• Mexican Atole by Curious Cuisiniere
• Gluten Free Hot Spiked Apple Cider by Gluten Free Crumbley

Desserts

• Apple Pear Crisp by The Freshman Cook
• Bananas Foster by Pies and Plots
• Chocolate Hazelnut Lava Cake by Brunch with Joy
• Fudge Pudding Cake by Cosmopolitan Cornbread
• Honeycrisp Apple Tart by The Redhead Baker
• Pumpkin Cheesecake in Pumpkins by Desserts Required
• Warm Cardamom and Coconut Rice Pudding by Fearless Dining

Main Dishes and Soups

• Beef Brats and Beans Soup by Cindy's Recipes and Writings
• Beef Pot Pie with Herbed Biscuits by From Gate to Plate
• Best Ever White Bean and Mushroom Soup by Pancake Warriors
• Braised Venison with Plums by Food Lust People Love
• Butternut Squash Chili by Amee's Savory Dish
• Butternut Squash Risotto with Pears and Sage by The Wimpy Vegetarian
• Carbonnade Flamande by Tara's Multicultural Table
• Classic Italian Meat Sauce by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
• Creamy Cauliflower Broccoli Cheese Soup by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
• Hearty Chickpea Soup by The Food Hunter's Guide to Cuisine
• Creamy Stove-Top Alfredo with Bacon and Green Beans by Peaceful Cooking
• Crockpot Creamy Chicken and Noodles by Confessions of a Cooking Diva
• Curry Debal by Palatable Pastime
• Easy Sweet Potato Soup by Healing Tomato
• Easy Zuppa Toscana Soup Copycat by Fantastical Sharing of Recipes
• French Onion Soup by Grumpy's Honeybunch
• Gingered Butternut Squash Soup by Noshing With The Nolands
• Hearty Turkey Lentil Soup by A Gouda Life
• Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup by Party Food and Entertaining
• Mango Habanero Sauce by What Smells So Good?
• Oxtail Stew by Nosh My Way
• Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting by Serena Bakes Simply from Scratch
• Red Lentil Soup by My San Francisco Kitchen
• Roasted Squash Soup by A Day in the Life on the Farm
• Turkey Enchilada Casserole with Salsa Verde by Food Done Light
• Slow Cooker English Roast by Wholistic Woman
• Slow Cooker Lamb Rogan Josh by Caroline's Cooking
• Easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Mushroom Gravy by Feeding Big
• Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili by Renee's Kitchen Adventures
• Spice Rubbed Braised Beef by FamFriendsFood
• Spicy Meatball Tortilla Soup by The Weekend Gourmet
• Sweet Potato Soup with Bacon by Cooking Chat
• Turkey Chipotle Chili by The Complete Savorist
• Tuscan White Bean Soup with Ham by Big Bear's Wife

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It's easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Savory Fig and Sweet Onion Freezer Jam #SundaySupper

One of the best things about summer is the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. The gardens are filled with ripened produce and the farmers markets are loaded with whatever you can't / don't grow.

But soon enough, it all comes to an end. (boo-hoo)

No fear! Sunday Supper is hear! Today it's all about saving summer! We have how-to's on dehydrating, freezing, making sauces, jams, pickling, oh my gosh...there's so much you can do to save those summers flavors.

I recently made Grilled Fig Onion Glazed Pork Tenderloin and afterward I was bummed cuz I won't be able to make this year round. Figs aren't always in season. And that's when it dawned on me....I can make a savory jam with the very same ingredients I used to make the glaze....voila! My summer flavor has been saved for the whole year!

Savory Fig and Sweet Onion Freezer Jam
makes about 10 cups of jam
Printable Version

1 tsp light olive oil
1 1/2 cups thinly sliced sweet onions
2 tsps white balsamic vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
7 cups chopped figs, stems trimmed off (about 2 1/2 lbs)
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
4 cups sugar
juice from 1 lemon
1 box of fruit pectin

Wash and sterilize enough jars and lids to hold a total of 10 cups of jam.

Heat the oil in a large heavy skillet or sauce pan over medium-low heat. Add the onions and saute, stirring often until tender and just starting to turn a nice golden color. Stir in the garlic and saute for another minute. Deglaze with the balsamic vinegar. Remove from heat.

Add in the chopped figs, sugar and black pepper. Stir to combine. If you prefer a less chunky end result, use a potato masher and smash everything up a bit.

Stir in the lemon juice and pectin. Place over low heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The way to test if your jam is ready, is to place a glass plate in the freezer. Place a dab of your jam in the middle of the very cold place and turn your plate on it's side. If the jam begins to quickly run, it's not thick enough. If it runs slowly or stays put, it's ready for the jars.

Carefully spoon the jam into your clean jars, leaving about 1/4" space at the top. With a clean, damp cloth, wipe up the spills and make sure the edge is clean and put your lids on.

Allow to cool to room temperature before freezing or using.

The aroma is mouth watering...the caramelized onion and balsamic vinegar seems to dominate the jar, but when you taste it\ you're surprised by the sweetness that accompanies the delectable flavor of fig while the onion is just a lingering after flavor that brings it all full circle.

Not only is this an amazingly delicious glaze, but if you really want to wow your taste buds (and who doesn't?) then you must try it with brie cheese in the center of a bundled up puff pastry!

So simple, easy and quick...

Preheat your oven to 400'
1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed (cuz I use the frozen kind)
1 wheel of brie cheese
about 2/3 cup of Savory Fig and Sweet Onion Freezer Jam
1 egg mixed with 1 TB water

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Lay the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Place the brie in the center. Top with the jam

Pull all the sides up to the center and pinch a little so they stick together some, to resemble a cute little bundle fulled with surprises.

Brush the top and sides with the egg wash.

Carefully place it on the lined baking sheet and into your oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. You might even want a little extra jam handy to toss a glob or two on your plate to ensure that you have a little of everything in each bite. The is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, gooey cheesy buttery flakiness.

I'm not sure if 10 cups is going to last me through the winter....

For more delicious tips and how-tos and fantastic recipes on saving summer, visit the other Sunday Supper blogs.


Learn how to …

• Dry Fruit - No-Dehydrator-Needed from Take A Bite Out of Boca 
• Freeze Cherries from Pies and Plots
• Freeze Herbs from Rhubarb and Honey 
• Make Freezer Harvest Soup Kits from Cindy's Recipes and Writings 
• Make Pesto Cubes from The Not So Cheesy Kitchen 
• Make and Freeze Rosemary Butter from Momma's Meals 
• Make Ready to Blend Smoothie Packs for Your Freezer from The Educators’ Spin On It 
• Oven Dry Cherries from The Redhead Baker 

Sip sunny cocktails and smoothies

• Blueberry, Peaches and Cream Green Smoothies from Cupcakes & Kale Chips 
• Green Tea and Chocolate Saketini from Ninja Baking 
• Sangria from Confessions of a Culinary Diva 

Scoop up special salsas and sauces

• Classic Freezer Tomato Sauce from Noshing With The Nolands 
• Peach Salsa from The Texan New Yorker
• Pico de Gallo from Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen 
• Spicy Apple - Carrot Chutney from What Smells So Good? 
• Spring Conserve from Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks 

Jump into jellies, jams and preserves

• Apricot Habanero Jam from Food Lust People Love 
• Corn Cob Jelly from Daily Dish Recipes 
• Hot Pepper Jelly from A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures 
• No Pectin Apricot Jam from Curious Cuisiniere 
• Peach Preserves from Delaware Girl Eats 
• Pineapple Mango Moscato Jam from Seduction in the Kitchen 
• Raw Raspberry-Vanilla Chia Jam from Shockingly Delicious 
• Savory Fig and Sweet Onion Freezer Jam from Peaceful Cooking 
• Spicy Ginger Tomato Jam with Coconut Sugar from Sue's Nutrition Buzz
• Spicy Red Pepper Jam from The Wimpy Vegetarian

Pucker up for pickles

• Bread and Butter Pickles from That Skinny Chick Can Bake 
• Pickled Beets and Onions from Kudos Kitchen by Renée 
• Pickled Green Tomatoes from Culinary Adventures with Camilla 
• Refrigerator Pickled Jalapeños with Herbs from Magnolia Days 
• Refrigerator Pickled Radish and Turnips from The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen 
• Refrigerator Pickles from Webicurean 
• Sweet Pickled Cauliflower from Because I Like Chocolate 

Slurp and spoon soup and a side dish

• Easy Garden Fresh Tomato Basil Soup from Neighborfood 
• Savory Summer Kimchi from A Mama, Baby & Shar-pei in the Kitchen 

Dive into divine desserts

• Easy (no machine) Cherry Cheesecake Ice Cream from Mama Bee Does
• Freeze 'em For Later Peach Berry Hand Pies from eating in instead
• Frozen Yogurt Covered Blueberries from Peanut Butter and Pepper
• Lemon and Blackberry Meringue Cakes from Happy Baking Days
• Lemon Curd Coffee Crumb Cake with Vanilla Drizzle from Wallflour Girl
• Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream from Killer Bunnies, Inc

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on Twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7 p.m. ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.


Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Grilled Peach and Cinnamon Whiskey Sour #SundaySupper

We are smack-dab in the middle of BBQ season and this week on Sunday Supper we're all over it. Below you will find over 40 amazing recipes that'll cover just about anything you need for your next BBQ! Believe me.... we have you covered; beverages, appetizers, sides and accompaniments, main dishes and desserts!

Of course I've got an adult beverage for you all. If little ones are in the mix, by all means, make it a virgin. Just omit the alcohol. Easy peasy.

I see all sorts of amazing recipes that include grilled fruit. The sweet smokey layer that the grill brings out in is wonderful. I think it's about time that we bring that flavor to another level of enjoyment by adding it to our cocktails. Fruit and cocktails go together perfectly...so why not grilled fruit? It's a BBQ natural, in my book.

Looking at the recipes out there, I'm not the only one who has come to this delicious conclusion. I just wish I had realized it sooner.

Grilled Peach and Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
Inspired by Serious Eats
Makes 4 - 6 cocktails

2 peaches, halved and pitted
Neutral flavored oil, such as vegetable oil, to brush on the peaches
Juice from one lemon
4 oz cinnamon whiskey
4 oz brandy
24 oz tamarind (tamarindo) soda (can be found in Mexican or international markets)
Lemon and lime slices to garnish

Brush the cuts sides of your peaches with oil and grill on a medium hot grill until just tender and charred

Let cool before peeling the skin off. (this can be done a day in advance and stored in the fridge.)

It's super easy to get those skins off when the peaches are cooked. Still really messy...but easy. 

Place the peaches in pitcher or bowl with the lemon juice and muddle away. Or you can put it in a blender and give it a quick spin.

Add the cinnamon whisky, brandy and tamarind soda and give it all a good stir. 

Pour into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with the lemon and lime slices, sit back and finish grilling. Or better yet, keep someone else company while they finish grilling. 

If you prefer a cocktail that's not so thick with fruit, by all means, strain out some of the peaches. Either way you're going to enjoy this cocktail. You're instantly hit with the cinnamon then it mellows into the tangy tamarind flavors before the soft sweet peach kisses your palate. It's refreshing and smooth going down. And before you know it, you need a refill. 

Well, this is just the beginning. Take a look at the amazing recipes the Sunday Supper team has put together for you. I guarantee you will be inspired and delighted.  

Beverages

• Best Wines For A Summer BBQ Party from ENOFYLZ Wine Blog
• Grilled Peach and Cinnamon Whiskey Sour from Peaceful Cooking
• How To Make Fresh Squeezed Lemonade from Life Tastes Good
• Pineapple Margaritas from The Messy Baker
• Stone Fruit Sangria from Because I Like Chocolate
• Strawberry Lemonade from Basic N Delicious

Appetizers

• BBQ Stuffed Calimari from Jane's Adventure in Dinner

Sides and Accompaniments

• Cucumber Salad with Blackberry Browned Butter Vinaigrette from Nik Snacks
• Easy Fruity Salad from Hot Momma's Kitchen Chaos
• Grilled Corn on the Cob with Lime Butter from The Redhead Baker
• Jacques' Cucumber Salad with Onions from Food Lust People Love
• Mango Peanut Slaw from The Texan New Yorker
• Mom's Classic Macaroni Salad from Webicurean
• Roasted Strawberry BBQ Sauce from Bobby's Kozy Kitchen
• Two Tomato Chutney from What Smells So Good?

Main Dishes

• Asian-Style Pasta with Gochujang Peanut Sauce from Wallflour Girl
• Barbecue Ribs from girlichef
• BBQ Stuffed Peppers from Small Wallet, Big Appetite
• Bistecca from Confessions of a Culinary Diva
• Competition Baby Back Ribs with Apple-Bourbon Barbecue Sauce from Crazy Foodie Stunts
• Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon from That Skinny Chick Can Bake
• Grilled Clams with Chorizo from Noshing With The Nolands
• Grilled Sanma from A Mama, Baby & Shar-pei in the Kitchen
• Grilled Shrimp with Lemon Basil from Nosh My Way
• Grilled Swordfish and Eggplant with Fusilli and Tomatoes from Cooking Chat
• Grilled Wings from Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
• Lemon Oregano Spatchcock Chicken from Kudos Kitchen by Renee
• Mango Beef Kebabs from Curious Cuisiniere
• Steak Skewers with Chimichurri from Jelly Toast
• Sweet and Tangy Blueberry BBQ Chicken Pizza from Simply Gourmet

Desserts

• Amazing S'mores 7-Layer Bars from Flavor Mosaic
• Banana Pudding Pie from A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
• Blackberry Cake from Peanut Butter and Peppers
• Blueberry and Raspberry Galette from Rhubarb and Honey
• Farm Stand Blackberry Buckle from The Wimpy Vegetarian
• Grilled Peach Crumble from Try Anything Once Culinary
• Grilled Peaches with Mascarpone Cream and Sweet Balsamic Syrup from La Bella Vita Cucina
• Hot Fudge Ice Cream Pie from Melanie Makes
• Lemon Ricotta Bars from The Foodie Army Wife
• Old Fashioned Sour Cherry Pie from Pies and Plots
• Pineapple Upside Down Cake from Take A Bite Out of Boca
• S'mores Chocolate Cookie Cups from Cupcakes & Kale Chips

Spinach Salad with Curried Apple and Cashew Dressing #SundaySupper

As hot as it is during the summer, it's also a time to chill. Whether you're cooling off in front of the a/c or taking a dip in the pool. Or maybe it's a time to relax and enjoy the season. Ooooor, maybe it's time to enjoy foods that are served chilled.

I prefer to have all 3 versions of chill happening in tandem.

That's where Summer Chillin' comes into full play on Sunday Supper this weekend. It's all about serving food that's perfect for helping you accomplish the summer chillin trifecta.

Typically I love a loaded salad. The more stuff going on, the better. But there are days when I need to put in as little effort as possible to get the job done. Simplicity is key. When you have a simple salad with simple ingredients, I feel that the dressing needs to step up and be the hero.

In this case...I was not disappointed.

Let me introduce you to yet another wonderful recipe from Anne Byrn's cookbook.....'What Can I Bring?'. Seriously, if Anne really asked me that question, I wouldn't ask her to bring this salad because it's what I'd bringing!

The salad in and of itself is the simplest of simples. A few perfectly chosen ingredients, most of which need zero prep. Its the dressing that has me singing praises. If you don't have all of the ingredients already, you'll have no problem finding them.

Spinach Salad with Curried Apple and Cashew Dressing
Printable Version

For the salad dressing:
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon dry white wine
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon soy sauce
3 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup vegetable oil

For the salad:
10 oz (about 8 cups loosely packed) lettuce, rinsed and drained
5 oz (about 4 cups loosely packed) fresh spinach leaves, rinsed and drained
1 medium Granny Smith apple, cored and chopped into 1/2" pieces
1/3 cup cashews
1/4 cup craisins
2 scallions. chopped
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (browned in a skillet over medium heat for about a minute or two)

Making the dressing: In a medium sized bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients except the oil. Gradually add the oil just a little at a time while whisking. Continuing whisking for a couple seconds until the dressing thickens a tad.

Taste. Taste again because you can't believe how good it is. Taste it yet again because you are loving it! If needed, adjust the sugar or salt or pepper.

For the salad: Toss everything together. Serve with the dressing. Pour yourself a glass of wine, sit back and chill.

(Leftover dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks)

I really love the flavor combinations in this salad...the apple, craisins, cashews...and especially the dressing! But then again, I really like curry. The dressing is on the sweeter side (or course you can alter that according to your taste) and the curry flavor is perfect....a nice hint without being over powering.

For more great recipes to help you chill this summer, take a look at what my Sunday Supper friends put together.....

Summer Chillin' Recipe Preview: Brisk Beverages

• Blackberry and Peach Sparkling {Camping} Sangria from Simply Healthy Family
• Mocha Madness Milkshake from Desserts Required
• Savory Salted Cumin Mint Lassi With Greek Yogurt from Sue's Nutrition Buzz
• Skinny Watermelon Mojito from Peanut Butter & Peppers
• Southern Sweet Tea from Gluten Free Crumbley
• Strawberry Mango White Sangria from The Texan New Yorker
• The Polar Cap Drink from Seduction in the Kitchen
• Vanilla Root Beer Cream Soda from Feed Me, Seymour

Chilled Starters

• Avocado Hummus Dip from Shockingly Delicious
• Bak Kwa (Grilled Chili Pork Jerky) from Food Lust People Love
• Cucumber-Watercress Soup - Gazpacho Style from The Wimpy Vegetarian
• Gazpacho from Jelly Toast
• Green Gazpacho from The Not So Cheesy Kitchen
• Rabarbersuppe Med Vin (Danish Rhubarb Wine Soup from Culinary Adventures with Camilla
• Mexican Flag Guacamole from What Smells So Good?
• Polish Chilled Beet Soup (Chlodnik) from Curious Cuisiniere
• Tuna Tartare from Kimchi Mom
• White Gazpacho from The Little Ferraro Kitchen

Snappy Salads and Sides

• Antipasto Tortellini Pasta Salad from Neighborfood
• Broccoli Salad from Flavor Mosaic
• Cantaloupe Risotto from Confessions of A Culinary Diva
• Cold Peanut Noodles from girlichef
• Korean Salad from Noshing With The Nolands
• Layered Salad with Green Goddess Dressing from Delaware Girl Eats
• Pesto Pasta Salad from Supper for a Steal
• Picnic Orzo Salad from A Mama, Baby & Shar-pei in the Kitchen
• Spinach Salad with Curried Apple and Cashew Dressing from Peaceful Cooking
• Tortellini Pesto Pasta Salad from Serena Bakes Simply from Scratch
• Tuna and Potato Salad from Cindy's Recipes and Writings
• Quinoa Fruit Salad with a Creamy Yogurt Dressing from Simply Gourmet
• Watermelon, Mango and Arugula Salad from Take a Bite Out of Boca

Refreshing Main Dishes

• Buffalo and Blue Cheese Chicken Salad from Cupcakes & Kale Chips
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad from Cookin' Mimi
• Jalapeno Ham Salad from Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
• Shrimp Ceviche from Kudos Kitchen by Renee
• Surimi Salad from Pescetarian Journal
• Zucchini Lasagna from Nosh My Way

Cool Confections

• Berry Ice Cream Bomb from Jane's Adventures in Dinner
• Cherry Cream Cheese Ice Cream from Magnolia Days
• Lemon Curd Parfait from Life Tastes Good
• Lemon Thyme Ice Pops from Country Girl in the Village
• Mocha Latte Ice Cream from The Foodie Army Wife
• No Maker Required Berry Ice Cream from Hot Momma's Kitchen Chaos
• No-Bake Penuche Drop Cookies from Killer Bunnies, Inc.
• No-Bake Raspberry and Japanese Yuzu Citrus Bars from NinjaBaking.com
• No Churn Lemon Ice Cream {Dairy Free} from Healthy. Delicious.
• Nutella and Pistachio Gelato from La Bella Vita Cucina
• Olive Oil Gelato from The Girl in the Little Red Kitchen
• Pluot Ice Cream from Crazy Foodie Stunts
• Raspberries and Cream Panna Cotta from A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
• Salted Caramel Gelato from Manu's Menu
• Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Pie from That Skinny Chick Can Bake
• Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Sandwiches from The Redhead Baker
• Trio of Fruity Ice Cream Toppings from Foxes Love Lemons
• Vanilla Bean Chia Seed Pudding from Pies and Plots
• White Chocolate Fruit Dip from Hezzi D's Book and Cooks

  Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET.  Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.

Mushroom and Gruyere Cheesecake #SundaySupper

Summer is in full swing! We have bbq's and picnics to plan and attend, with the promise of great food and good times ahead, and memories to be made.

Some of our best memories have been made during the summer months when we gather with our closest friends and family, spending hours around the pool, eating, drinking, playing games and then finishing the night off gathered around the fire pit as things wind down.

One of my dearest friends gave me wonderful cookbook several years ago called What Can I Bring by Anne Byrn. This book is a great resource for bbq's and picnics. Some time ago (as in a few years ago) this savory cheesecake recipe really caught my eye. I've been wanting to make it but was having a difficult time wrapping my head around a cheesecake that wasn't dessert.

Silly me!!

Think of it as a cheese frittata of sorts. The crust is made with bread crumbs, although I think crackers would work wonderfully. Of course there's no sugar involved. It's just creamy cheesy deliciousness that seriously makes you wish that it wasn't so high in calories cuz you really want another slice. 

Mushroom and Gruyere Cheesecake
recipe from What Can I Bring by Anne Byrn
Printable Recipe

The Crust
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature
1 1/3 cups fine bread crumbs (I used plain)
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

The Filling
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped (about 2 cups). I used cremini
3 8oz packagers of cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
Salt
1/2 to 1 tsp powdered garlic (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 large eggs
4 oz shredded Gruyere cheese (about 1 cup)
1 10oz package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Ground Pepper

The Crust Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350'F. Prepare a 9" springform pan by rubbing the tablespoon of butter on the bottom and around the side. Set aside.

Spread the bread crumbs on a baking sheet and allow them to toast in the oven for about 8-10 minutes. Place toasted crumbs in a small bowl. Add the melted butter and optional 1/4 teaspoon to 1/2 teaspoon (depending on taste) and stir to combine.

Transfer the buttered bread crumbs to the springform pan and press firmly along the bottom and about 1/2 way up the sides.

Place the springform pan back into the over for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the crust is a nice golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.

The Filling Instructions
Reduce the oven temperature down to 325' F

In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and saute, stirring often until the mushrooms release their liquid. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool.

In a mixing bowl cream the cream cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, the option 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of garlic (depending on taste), the nutmeg and cayenne pepper and mix until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixture until just combined before adding the next egg. 

Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly between two bowls. In one bowl, add the spinach and green onions, stirring to combine. Spoon into the bottom of the crust.

Spoon the sauteed mushrooms over the spinach filling.

In the second bowl cream cheese mixture, stir in the Gruyere cheese and carefully spoon over the mushrooms.

Place the springform pan onto a cookie sheet and bake for about 1 hr and 15 minutes, or until just set.

Turn the oven off and open the oven door slightly (you can use a kitchen towel to keep the oven door slightly ajar) and let the cheesecake sit in there to rest for an hour. Then place it on a cooling rack and allow to cool to room temperature before serving (about 30 - 40 minutes).

If you're making this ahead of time, by all means store it in the fridge over night.

Here's the beauty of this magnificent beast....it tastes best at room temperature. It's good cold too. Warmed up? It loses something. The texture is altered and the flavors aren't as predominant. This is what makes it such a great picnic food! No worries about keeping it hot or cold....its best as is!!

For more wonderful picnic food ideas, take a look at what some of the others have made:
Beverages

• Orange Blossom Iced Tea by girlichef
• Red, White, and Blue Sangria by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
• Rosemary Nectarine Sparkling Cocktail by Food Lust People Love
• Best Picnic Wines by ENOFYLZ Wine Blog

Appetizers

• Baked Garlic Parmesan Wings by Cindy's Recipes and Writings
• Buffalo Chicken Spring Rolls by Daily Dish Recipes
• Peppadew Dip by Confessions of a Culinary Diva
• Savory Red, White, and Bleu Truffles by Culinary Adventures with Camilla

Mains

• Asparagus and Cheddar Quiche by Mess Makes Food
• London Broil with Caramelized Red Onions by Crazy Foodie Stunts
• Stilton Potato and Stilton Pies by Jane's Adventures in Dinner
• Waffle Batter Fried Chicken Tenders with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce by Kudos Kitchen by Renee

Sides

• Mushroom and Gruyere Cheesecake by Peaceful Cooking
• Scotch Eggs by Small Wallet, Big Appetite

Salads

• Caprese Pasta Salad by La Bella Vita Cucina
• Farro & Walnut Salad by Foxes Love Lemons
• Fruit Tortellini Salad by Jelly Toast
• Gluten Free Potato Salad by Gluten Free Crumbley
• Japanese Noodle Salad by Noshing With The Nolands
• Kale and Quinoa Tabbouli by Healthy. Delicious.
• Layered Chicken Salad by Nosh My Way
• Lightened Up Macaroni Salad by Peanut Butter and Peppers
• Loaded Potato Salad by Granny's Down Home Sassy Southern Cooking
• Mexican 3 Bean Salad by Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
• Old Fashioned Potato Salad by Life Tastes Good
• Orzo Salad with Kale Pesto by Cooking Chat
• Pizza Pasta Salad by Curious Cuisiniere
• Red, White and Blue Fruit and Cheese Salad by Shockingly Delicious
• Tomato Bean Salad by Family Foodie
• Tuna Noodle Salad by Hot Momma's Kitchen Chaos
• Vegetable Salad by Magnolia Days
• Veggie Pasta Salad by Pescetarian Journal
• Watermelon and Feta Salad with Verjus by The Wimpy Vegetarian

Sandwiches and Wraps

• Pan Bagnat by A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
• Panino con la Salamella by Manu's Menu
• Roast Beef Wraps by Cookin' Mimi

Sweets

• Banana Pudding Cheesecake by Serena Bakes Simply From Scratch
• Berry Cheesecake Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups {#glutenfree option} by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
• Cherry Chip Blossom Cupcakes by NinjaBaking.com
• Cherry Pie Crumb Bars by The Girl In the Little Red Kitchen
• Chocolate Chunk Brownies by What Smells So Good?
• Chocolate Syrup Brownies by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
• Chocolate Zucchini Cake by Killer Bunnies, Inc
• Coconut Oil Chocolate Chip Cookies by Alida's Kitchen
• Flag Cake by Pies and Plots
• Peanut Butter Frosted Brownies by Feed Me, Seymour
• Red, White, and Blue Berry Angel Food Cake Parfaits by Neighborfood
• S'mores Crumb Bars by The Redhead Baker
• Stained Glass Jello with Coconut Milk Panna Cotta by Simply Gourmet
• Strawberry Banana Oat Muffins by Sue's Nutrition Buzz

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. Check out our #SundaySupper Pinterest board for more fabulous recipes and food photos. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Grilled Chipotle Chicken Pizza #SundaySupper

I'm excited to say that I have joined the #SundaySupper Movement! And this is my first participating post. Wouldn't you know it....it's all about Man Food! Is there much out there that men won't eat?

I think not.

At the bottom, you will find a list of other #SundaySupper blogger's Man Food recipes and links. You can check them all out and see what you find that'll make your man happy.

What man doesn't like pizza? There might be a few out there but I've never met one. This Father's Day, to celebrate the man in your life, rather than turning on the oven to bake your pizza (and getting the house all hot and uncomfortable), why not take a shot at it on the grill? The flavor that's imparted is wonderful, just like anything else that's BBQ'd. You know that tell-tale smokey flavor that announces 'summer' loud and clear. Grilled pizza is fun, quick, and so darned good!

As with all pizzas, there are 3 components: the dough/crust, the sauce, and the toppings. Most of which can be partially prepared ahead of time. Even a day beforehand. 

First I'm going to share a beautiful pizza dough recipe. I've used it several times over the past few years and for the life of me, I cannot remember where I originally got the recipe (which is really bugging me now cuz I really would love to give them credit). 

Pizza Dough:
Ingredients:

1 package of active dry yeast (comes out to 2 1/2 tsp)

3 cups of all purpose flour

1/2 TBS honey 

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup olive oil

1 cup warm water (about 110 - 115 degrees)

Directions:

Mix the honey and the water together. Add the yeast. Let sit for about 10 minutes, until it foams. Add salt and oil and give it a quick stir. Add the flour and mix well. Mix together with a wooden spoon or by hand. If it's too wet, add a bit of flour (1 TBS at a time) until its dry enough. If it's too dry, add a bit of water (1 TBS at a time) until its right. Turn out onto a well floured surface and knead until its nice and smooth. You might want to step away for a few minutes during kneading to let the dough rest. When you come back, it will knead so nicely and get all smooth and beautiful for you. 

Form the dough into a ball and put into a large oiled bowl. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm area until it has doubled in size (about 35 - 45 minutes or more). Punch down and let it rise again until it has doubled in size (about 1 - 1.5 hrs). Punch it down. 

At this point, you can store it in the refrigerator in a lightly covered container, for a few days. Do not seal the container tight as the dough will still rise (albeit slowly) in the fridge and you do not want the gases to build up and cause an explosion. When ready to use, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temp a bit before working with it. 

Turn it onto a well floured surface and prepare your dough for pizza. I divided it up into 4 balls and made individual sized pizzas. The number of pizza you get out of this dough will depend on how think you want your crust and how big you want them. 

Chipotle Pizza Sauce:
Inspired by The Neely's Chipotle Sauce

Ingredients:
1 cup sour cream (if you can get Mexican sour cream, all the better)
2 chipotle peppers, seeded
2 green onions, roughly chopped
1 garlic clove, chopped
1/4 teaspoon cumin
Juice from 1 lime

Directions:
Place all of the ingredients in a food processor or blender and puree until smooth and creamy. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use. At least an hour or 2 would be good in order for the flavors to mesh together and get all warm and fuzzy.

Note: If you are sensitive to heat, then use 1 chipotle. If you like it really hot, then leave the seeds in.

Shredded Smokey Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 425' F if using the oven to bake the chicken, otherwise prepare your grill accordingly.

Ingredients:
3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
juice from 1/2 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
Rinse and pat dry the chicken.

In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, garlic powder and cumin.

Drizzle the chicken with lemon juice on both sides and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Rub the chili powder combo on the chicken, on both sides.

Bake in a hot oven on a baking sheet that has been sprayed with cooking spray, for about 30 minutes, or until done. Or grill over medium-hot coals until the juices inside run clear.

Let cool first, then shred.

Toppings:
Shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded jack cheese
Grilled onions
Grilled bell peppers
Sliced avocado
Chopped cilantro
Lime wedges


Grilling and assembling the pizza:
Heat up your grill and make it hot. You want a even heat. If you are using charcoal, spread those hot coals evenly around, under your grate.

On a lightly floured surface, shape your dough as desired. Place it on a pizza peel that is lightly dusted with flour or cornmeal, if you have one. If you don't have a pizza peel, dust the bottom side of a cookie sheet and use that.

Slide the dough off the peel and onto the middle of your grill (this should be done in one full sweep). Cover and let cook for maybe 3 - 5 minutes? Check it and see what's going on. It all depends on how charred you want it.

It will bubble up and get all cool looking

When it's lightly browned, remove it using a couple of spatulas, flipping it over onto your peel.

The cooked side will now be the top of your pizza. Spread the Chipotle sauce over the crust

Add the cheese, shredded chicken, grilled onions and more cheese and then slide it back onto the grill.

Cover and grill for another few minutes, until the top is melted and bubbly and the bottom is a deep golden brown or even a bit charred, should you so desire.

Remove. Add the avocados, cilantro and drizzle with lime juice.

Slice and serve!

The cool cream in the sauce keeps the chipotle peppers under control. To a point. It's a bit spicy but that's what's so darned good about it. That smokey chipotle heat, which is also enhanced by the grill. The chicken is just plain good, especially with all that melted cheese everywhere. All in all, this is just a great combo of flavors that naturally go well together. Put it all on a deliciously homemade pizza crust and you can't go wrong.

Manly Starters:

• BBQ Chicken Nacho by Country Girl in The Kitchen
• Beer Battered Fried Mushrooms by Kudos Kitchen by Renee
• Burrata Bresaola and Arugula Appetizer by Family Foodie
• Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce by Hip Foodie Mom
• Chipotle Pork Belly-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers by The Redhead Baker
• Coconut Beer-Battered Prawns with Spicy Marmalade by The Wimpy Vegetarian
• Devils on Horseback by Nosh My Way
• Fried Pickles by Cookin’ Mimi
• Garlic and Herb Wine Jelly by What Smells So Good?
• Maple Sriracha Chicken Wings by Manu’s Menu
• Tomato Bacon Jam by Feed Me, Seymour

Manly Mains:

• Bacon Bourbon BBQ Burgers by The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
• Bacon Cheeseburger Crustless Quiche by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
• Beef Barbacoa by Casa de Crews
• Beef Short Rib Sandwich by Life Tastes Good
• Beer Brats with Pepper Relish by Jelly Toast
• Beer Can Chicken by Curious Cuisiniere
• Chicago Style-Pizza by Small Wallet, Big Appetite
• Chili Dog Casserole by Simple Gourmet
• Chipotle Pork Chops by girlichef
• Coconut & Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers by Take A Bite Out of Boca
• Colossal Burger by Jane’s Adventures in Dinner
• Gluten Free Lemon Pepper Wings by Gluten Free Crumbley
• Grilled Chipotle Chicken Pizza by Peaceful Cooking
• Grilled Lobster with Miso Butter by Kimchi MOM
• Grilled Sweet Guava Chicken by The Foodie Army Wife
• Ham and Pineapple Pizza Pockets by gotta get baked
• Huevos Rancheros Casserole by Pescetarian Journal
• Lacquered Short Ribs in the Slow Cooker by Shockingly Delicious
• Maple Chipotle Barbecue Pork Tenderloin by Flavor Mosaic
• Meatball Burger on Garlic Bread by Healthy.Delicious.
• Mom’s Slow Roasted Brisket by Food Lust People Love
• Perfectly Pan Seared Steak by Serena Bakes Simply From Scratch
• Pollo al Peperoncino by Run DMT
• Polish Coal Miner Piggies (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls- Golabki) by Rants from my Crazy Kitchen
• Red Chile Shredded Chicken Tacos. How to win over your man’s stomach and steal his heart. by Simply Healthy Family
• Ropa Vieja by Meal Diva
• Salt of the Earth Ribs by Culinary Adventures with Camilla
• Salisbury Steak w/ Loaded Mashed Potatoes and Mushroom Gravy by A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
• Smoked Turkey Drumsticks by Cindy’s Recipes and Writing
• Stuffed Chipotle Bacon Cheese Burgers by Peanut Butter and Peppers
• Stuffed Pork Chops by The Not So Cheesy Kitchen
• Tex-Mex Gut Buster Chili by Bobbi’s Kozy Kitchen
• The Cleveland Hogg Burger by Seduction in the Kitchen

Manly Desserts:

• Beer Funnel Cake by Killer Bunnies, Inc.
• Black Forest Cake by Noshing with the Nolands
• Carob Chip Cookies by Pies and Plots
• Chunky Monkey Vegan Banana Bread by Ninjabaking.com
• Classic Cheesecake by Hot Momma’s Kitchen Chaos
• Fat Man’s Pie by Magnolia Days
• Mandarin orange cake aka southern pig pickin’ cake by Baking & Browning
• Pizookies by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
• Grilled Pound Cake Stacks with Roasted Strawberries by Melanie Makes
• Strawberry Rhubarb Pie With Mascarpone Cream by La Bella Vita Cucina

Wine Pairings for Man Food #SundaySupper byENOFYLZ Wine Blog

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. Check out our#SundaySupper Pinterest board for more fabulous recipes and food photos.
Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

« Last Edit: Today at 08:05:48 AM by Susan @ LittleRedKitchen »