An Ideal Accommodation-destin Florida Vacation Home Rental

11 February 2011 by  
Categories: Vacations

Destin Florida can be found crossways the these types of associated with Mexico for any tranquil escape to some distinctive heaven, therefore load up your own possessions and obtain arranged to invest your own times inside a comfortable Destin Florida holiday home leasing to have an daring holiday. By having an thrilling holiday from Destin Florida holiday leasing house, you’ll definitely overlook all of your function stress as well as reinstate which passionate nature.

THE remain in the Destin Florida holiday home leasing means residing in another home actually when you’re remaining kilometers far from home city. Furthermore, along with correct research, one will discover a number of beach holiday rentals from Destin Florida which will location a mortal in a close to range in the gleaming seashores from the Emerald green Coastline. Spending some time in the seaside is definitely stunning. You’ll have to merely load up your own materials as well as re-locate, exactly where a thrilling fun-filled day time associated with floating around, sandcastle-building as well as floating around is actually awaiting a person.

Destin Florida holiday home leasing provides much more for your lodging compared to handy seaside entry. Most importantly, it’s the cheapest method of lodging. Waterfront holiday houses usually function since the saint tension reliever for everybody, and that’s exactly what the entire reason for any kind of holiday is actually. Think about getting out of bed using the resting seem from the surf switching back again as well as shifting away for your patio to view the actual sparkling dawn. Spectacular organic sights as well as complete rest is actually just about all you will discover along with Destin Florida holiday home leasing.

Because there are many points of interest close to Destin Florida that might definitely help to make your whole journey a good memorable holiday likewise, holiday home rental fees additionally wage lots of extra advantages to create you are feeling along with the planet. The majority of the Destin pass rentals wage use of several pools, tennis games legal courts, as well as entertainment areas together with probably the most beautiful places.

Apart from these types of extra supplies, Destin Florida holiday home leasing can also be absolutely filled with the fundamental features as well as conveniences of the house. Have a absolutely equipped kitchen area, roomy sleeping rooms, living spaces, living area, several TVs as well as DVD AND BLU-RAY gamers, the washing organisation as well as clothes dryer, along with a patio where one can repose at the conclusion from the day time watching the actual wonderful setting sun. Rather than surviving in the clean and sterile as well as inhospitable accommodation that you simply might attempt to avert, choose a good helpful Destin Florida leasing home abroad that will assist since the saint holiday house.

Destin Florida holiday home leasing would be the greatest lodging option for anyone that anticipates to flee for this enchanting bliss without having dropping the conveniences as well as features associated with home. Remain in a close to range of the stunning seaside as well as help to make the majority of your own holiday. To comprehend the actual desire, begin your web visit a Destin Florida holiday home leasing these days as well as incomparable a really tranquil holiday.

Don’t Leave Nutrition At Home WhenTraveling With Kids  

16 January 2011 by  
Categories: Travel Tips

Article by Nonna Joann Bruso

My husband packs everything, but the kitchen sink when we travel. I attempt the sink. If the truth be known, I’ve overdone it when packing food for a road trip.

Because our third daughter adversely reacted to the artificial ingredients in fast foods and other processed foods, I routinely packed too much foodstuff. I over estimated what I would be healthy to accomplish on a vacation. Over the years, I learned a few tricks for intake healthy while away from home without bringing the kitchen sink!

Prepare and pack items to be consumed on the first and second day, only. After that, it’s easier to find a local whole foods’ store or a small grocery store than, than to lug enough food for an entire week. The one exception I might make is to bring whole-grain bread to last for the duration of the trip. It’s almost impossible to find whole grains at small mountain or beach grocers or at any restaurant for that matter. For less waste, purchase fruit, cheese, nuts, and other healthful items as they are needed.

We found it less complicated and cheaper to stay in a room with a kitchen, especially when traveling with kids. Even a little kitchen is helpful with the preparation of healthful breakfasts and lunches. Now, it’s just my husband and myself when we vacation; still we often stay in a room or a cabin with a kitchen. Sure, everyone enjoys a break from cooking, so we usually go out for dinner.

If you’re going to be away for a week or more and you’re traveling by car, you might want to bring a few more food items: hardboiled eggs, canned tuna or chicken for sandwiches, small unopened jars of mayonnaise, nut butter, and jelly.

If the jars are small, then any unused portions might be discarded before the trek home. Buy a variety of microwave popcorn without any trans fats. At home, we use a hot air popper, but while on vacation, for convenience you might want to make a few exceptions.

If you have a sink and a counter, in your room accommodations, not to mention the luxury of a refrigerator, this makes preparing meals more pleasant. It’s not cheap to take at fast food restaurants, especially when you’re purchasing meals for a family. And, the food you purchase isn’t usually nutritious, because it contains sugar, salt, modified fats, and MSG.

Who wants to end a pass with a compromised immune system, or worse, sick? I’d like to forget a trip home from the mountains when our children were teens. We had a van-full of girls, our four, plus their friends. We ordered take-out pizza the night before our ride down the mountain. Our scenic drive was disturbed by passing the bucket, due to food poisoning. A memorable way to end the trip, for sure, but not one I’d like to repeat.

Nuts and seeds are really yummy for family vacations. They come in handy, especially while traveling. A small handful of nuts or seeds ingested between meals make a nutritious snack and are simple to take on a trip. Nuts and seeds, besides being delicious, are jam-packed with nutrition:

*Almonds, pecans, and pistachios are rich in protein.

*Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids.

*Sesame, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds are particularly good sources of plant sterols, which promote heart health.

*Peanuts are plant seeds that grow in underground pods and taste like a nut. They are high in accelerator and contain the hard-to-get vitamin D.

*Sesame seeds are rich in minerals, especially copper and magnesium. They’re also high in calcium. Reading is a good way to pass the time during a road trip. Take the book, “A Thousand and One Nights,” and read it to your children while you’re on the road. If you remember, the famed phrase, “Open sesame,” magically opens the cave with the hidden treasure. This colorful command reflects the sesame pod, which bursts open when it reaches maturity. Of course, everyone should be intake sesame seeds while reading the story.

This year, plan ahead to have a happy and healthy holiday.

About the Author

Nonna Joann Bruso is a speaker and author of “Baby Bites™: Transforming a Picky Eater into a Healthy Eater.” “Baby Bites™” is a guide for parents of picky eaters that actually works! In only 7 days, your finicky child will be tasting new foods!

For information on how to catapult your picky consumer to loving nutritious foods go to: http://www.babybites.info; to hear her Podcast, go to http://www.nonna.libsyn.com

5 Travel Tips to the Grand Bahamas Island For Those US Travelers Who Like the Comforts of Home

11 December 2010 by  
Categories: Travel Tips

Traveling outside of the US can cause a traveler a bit of anxiety; but a Bahama pass to the Grand Bahamas Island you will find many of the comforts of home.  Here 5 comfort travel tips that should make going to this Island that much easier for you and the kids. Plus with simple access on and off the Island, getting there is a breeze.

The primary language of the Grand Bahamas Island is English. Of course you will hear a Bahamian accent but road signs, menus, tour guides, taxi drivers, airfield attendants and resort staffs all communicate in English.
US currency is used throughout the Island, however it is generally suggested to use credit cards or traveler’s checks whenever traveling abroad.  Tips, vending machines, ATM machines and Island vendors all accept US currency. If you select to book an all-inclusive Bahamas vacation you will not need to exchange money, making it even easier.
Although you will get local Bahamas television stations, they can be interesting to watch, you will still see many of the same American television shows (times and channels will differ from home), and this does include many sports programs too.
Your US driver’s license is valid in The Grand Bahamas, and most of the driving rules do apply, however, there is a hitch, British driving rules apply, meaning you will be driving on the left hand side of the road.  That might take a bit to get used to but once you get the hang of it you should be just fine.
For those fast food fans, yes there are the traditional chains scattered about the Island to satisfy your urge for hamburgers and fries just like home.

Since the Island is just 55 miles off the coast of Florida, getting to the Grand Bahamas Island is very simple to do, either by air or by sea. Several major airlines can fly directly to the Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) in Freeport. There are now two sea options available, for those who want to take a bit more time to get there, the Discovery Cruise line out of Fort Lauderdale or the Bahamas Party out of Palm Beach. 

Although the Grand Bahamas Island is a Caribbean country, it boasts its own one-of-a-kind customs and holidays the similarity to the US makes it a comfort for those travelers who like to stay within their comfort zone.

5 Travel Tips to the Grand Bahamas Island For Those US Travelers Who Like the Comforts of Home

Emma Adams provides advice and suggestions on pass packages to all the Bahama Islands. Find the right Bahamas vacation, Grand Bahamas Island, cheap Bahamas vacation, Freeport Bahamas and Grand Bahamas Island resort that lets you get away visit http://www.gobahama.com.


Article from articlesbase.com

Don’t Leave Home Without These Travel Tips!

7 November 2010 by  
Categories: Travel Tips

Planning a pass or going on business out of town? Whether this is your first trip or the fortieth, a nod to common sense and a few practical pointers will not only streamline your journey, but also enhance your experience by making it safer, easier and more fun.

Planning Your Journey
Be sure to familiarize yourself with your destination. The World wide web is an excellent resource for researching the area you will be visiting, and many visitor centers will also send a welcome packet for a nominal fee – as well as answer any questions by phone. Things that you should know before you leave include: the address and specific location of your hotel, the exact route to get there and hotel check in time. Also be aware of any specifics you might need en route, such as money for equipage fare or toll roads, and carry a decent map of the region in case all else fails and you get lost. A cell phone is always a good intent in case of complications as well – be sure to have emergency numbers handy to contact your family, employer, etc. if necessary.

Consider your transportation needs. Is this an extended stay? Will you need a automobile to drive or does the area have adequate public services such as busses, subways and commuter trains? Familiarize yourself with acquirable transport as well as related costs and be sure to keep a copy of the bus or subway schedules with you if you plan to ride instead of drive.

Select your lodging with your specific desires and needs in mind. For example, if you want the convenience (and lesser expense) of being healthy to store and prepare your own food, select accommodations with a kitchenette, or at least a refrigerator and a microwave. If you are traveling with small kids and want to lighten your load, many hotels offer cribs, which will save you the trouble of packing one. In the U.S. hair dryers, irons and ironing boards, individualized toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner and lotion, as well as optional laundry and dry cleaning services for an additional fee have become standard in many hotels, though you should first verify with your specific location before relying on any of these options.

Be certain that you have adequate funds for any emergencies on your trip. Always keep enough cash to call home, get transportation and a meal. Keep your money innocuous and on your mortal in a money belt or small notecase and don’t display needlessly. A credit card or access to traveler’s checks for unforeseen massive expenses or emergencies is also necessary. If you are outside of your country, be certain that you have an adequate grasp of currency conversions.

Before You Leave
Properly prepare for your journey. If you are leaving your country, you must have a valid passport, be current with your immunizations and should familiarize yourself with relevant foreign customs regarding appropriate behavior. Also become acquainted with all pertinent laws according to your destination. Many books are acquirable to give guidance for new visitors to just about each country in the world.

Take care of business on the home front. Put your mail and newspaper delivery on hold and leave a light on in your home for an “occupied” look. Also, ask a neighbor or friend keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. For a very extended vacation, think about paying someone to housesit – to attend to pets, plants, lawn care and other incidentals. Adjust your heating or air conditioning to minimum levels while you are gone and verify that all appliances and electrical equipment are turned off. Double check that your doors and windows are secure and don’t leave extra home keys in obvious places such as under the welcome mat or above the entry – would-be thieves are as aware of these places as you are. Remember to give your itinerary, destination and several contact phone numbers to someone that you trust.

Get plenty of rest the night before you depart – last minute planning and packing is not only stressful but leaves you prone to forgetting something. While traveling, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, but dress well enough to appear respectable in case of an unforeseen situation. Always keep your wallet, keys, ID, necessary medications and anything of importance, value or difficult to replace on your person, this is especially important when flying as airlines do occasionally make mistakes and lose luggage.

When Flying
As most are aware, the aftermath of September 11th has impacted the airline industry and everyone who flies. Therefore, leave adequate time to check in for your flight as well as for inspection of your bags and person. Many airlines offer web or remote check in which can help speed up the process; this is especially advantageous if you do not have luggage to check. When packing, carefully review TSA and specific airline rules for acceptable carry on items. Typically disallowed in carry on bags are: sharp objects of any kind, lighters or anything that might be construed as a weapon. Comply politely with requests made by security organisation and be prepared to have your bag searched. It is a good intent to buy a TSA approved locking mechanism to for your checked bags as TSA might break any locks if your bag is chosen for a random search.

Most airlines wage a light beverage and small snack such as a granola bar or peanuts, but food service is not guaranteed even on longer flights. Plan accordingly with easily accessible, nutritious snacks for yourself and especially young children. Also, be considerate of your flight neighbors – cramped conditions are not enjoyable for anyone and are made less so by thoughtless seatmates. Abide by rules of common courtesy and remember to bring entertainment – a book, magazines, puzzles or a laptop with headphones for music or motion picture DVDs.

Traveling By Car
If you are driving any distance, verify that your automobile is in good working condition, and that all fluids have been topped off and tires inflated properly. Be sure that your spare tire is ready to use and that you have all necessary emergency road equipment – crow bar, jack, flares, etc. Keep proof of your insurance and drivers license handy and wage your kids with age appropriate country seats, which are mandatory in many U.S. states. Snacks and water for the trip will help you refrain driving delays, and entertainment for your passengers is also a good idea, as noted above for flying. Remember, don’t leave valuables or keys in your automobile and always lock your car.

Safety In Your Hotel and Elsewhere
Once you have arrived at your destination, be aware of your surroundings so that you can take note of any suspicious or uncommon activity. Be especially cautious at night and before entering parking garages or other secluded areas. When in public, always make an effort to appear confident and purposeful in order to thwart scam artists on the lookout for “tourists”. As with money, don’t display your hotel keys in public or leave them where they might be easily stolen. Don’t invite strangers to your room or needlessly reveal your individualized details to anyone, and always verify the indistinguishability of any hotel employees before allowing them to enter. Also, when you are in your room, be sure to close and lock the door and check that all connecting doors are also secured. And never leave kids unattended or trust them to the care of someone you don’t know!

Making the most of these traveling tips will help you superior prepare for your journey and make your experience safer and easier – leaving you with more opportunity to enjoy yourself on both the journey and at your destination once you arrive.

Don’t Leave Home Without These Travel Tips!

An experienced traveler, Tonya Kopp offers everyone the advantages of seeing the world for just pennies on the dollar – for life. Visit SavvyTravelling.com

Home Cooking: Romano’s Macaroni Grill Italian Restaurant Recipes To Cook At Home – Foccacia Bread – Chicken Scaloppini Di Pollo – Penne Rustica -

2 October 2010 by  
Categories: Culinary

Macaroni Grill Foccacia Bread – Chicken Scaloppini di Pollo – Pasta Di Pollo Al Sugo Bianco – just a few of the delicious menu items offered by ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL ITALIAN RESTAURANTS.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill menu features items found in traditional cuisine from Italy and the Mediterranean area. Guests find it hard to select from generous portions of delicious pastas, veal, seafood, steaks, roasted chicken, pizza baked in wood-burning ovens, soups and hard-to-resist desserts. Macaroni Grill also offer patrons the option of creating their own pasta, from a list of pre-selected ingredients. All meals are served with complimentary bread and olive oil.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill is an Italian-style chain of casual dining restaurants with locations throughout the U. S., Canada and Mexico. The first restaurant was founded by talented restaurateur Philip J. Romano in Texas in 1988.

Romano’s passionate chefs prepare more than 25 Italian specialties in exhibition kitchens while guests rest in a casual region surrounded by attentive servers and an occasional strolling opera singer!

>>> So if you want to prepare a delicious meal to impress family, friends or even a hot date – maybe someone you met on a romantic dating site – here are Romano’s Macaroni Grill most favourite recipes of all…

 

–Romano’s Macaroni Grill Chicken Scaloppini di Pollo–

 

>> Lemon Butter Sauce:

4 oz lemon juice

2 oz white wine

4 oz heavy cream

1 lb (4 sticks) butter.

To make the sauce: Heat the lemon juice and white wine in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil and reduce by 1/3. Add cream and simmer until mixture thickens (3 to 4 minutes). Slowly add butter until absolutely incorporated. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and keep warm.

>> Chicken:

6 to 8 (3 oz) chicken breasts, pounded thin

oil and butter for sauteing chicken

1/2 to 3/4 cup flour, seasoned with salt and pepper, for dredging 6 oz pancetta, cooked

12 oz mushrooms, sliced

12 oz artichoke hearts, sliced

1 T capers

1 lb capellini pasta, cooked

chopped parsley, for garnish.

 

To make Chicken and Pasta: Cook pasta and drain. Heat a small amount of oil and 2 T of butter in a massive skillet. Dredge chicken in flour and saute in pan, turning once, until brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and add to pan remaining ingredients. Heat until mushrooms soften and are cooked; add chicken back to pan.

To serve: Place cooked pasta on apiece plate. Add half of butter sauce to chicken mixture and toss. Taste and adjust, adding more sauce if needed. Place chicken mixture over pasta. Garnish with parsley. Alternately, mix pasta and chicken mixture together. Toss with butter sauce.

 

–Romano’s Macaroni Grill Pasta Di Pollo Al Sugo Bianco–

>> The Asiago Sauce:

4 cups heavy whipping cream

1/8 teaspoon paste or dried chicken base

1 1/4 cups asiago cheese

1 containerful cornstarch

2 ounces water.

 

To make the sauce: Heat cream to very hot and just bubbly (but not a boil).

Add chicken base and cheese. Stir constantly with a wire whisk and bring temperature back to just bubbly.

Dissolve cornstarch in the cold water and add to sauce. Bring to a slow simmer to cook out starch. Transfer sauce to a container, cover and refrigerate until needed.

>> Pasta:

1/2 stick butter

1/2 cup red onions, diced

1/2 cup pancetta, (Italian smoked bacon) drained and chopped

1 containerful garlic, chopped

3/4 cup green onions – tops only

3/4 pound sliced grilled chicken

2 pounds farfalle, (bow-tie pasta) cooked

8 ounces heavy whipping cream

1 containerful chopped parsley.

 

To make the pasta dish:

Saute red onion in butter for a few seconds then add pancetta and garlic. Add chicken, green onions and pasta. Deglaze the pan with the cream. Add asiago cream sauce. Heat thoroughly. Garnish with parsley and serve.

 

 

–Romano’s Macaroni Grill Foccacia Bread–

 

1 Tablespoon Dry yeast

1 Teaspoon Canola oil

1 Tablespoon Sugar

Nonstick cooking spray

1 Cup Warm water

2 Tablespoon Margarine

2 1/2 Cup White flour

1/4 Cup Fresh rosemary; chopped – (or 2 tbsps dried)

1 Teaspoon Salt.

 

Place yeast, sugar and water in a massive bowl or food processor and grant the mixture to become bubbly. Mix in 2 c of flour and salt. Knead for about 10 min or process in food processor for 15 sec until smooth and elastic; add flour if necessary.

Oil a bowl, place dough in it and cover with a towel. Let dough rise in a warm place for 1 hr, until doubled.

Punch down dough and divide in half. Let the dough rest for a few minutes. Coat 2 9-in square block pans with nonstick spray.

Press dough into pans. Melt margarine. Brush margarine over the tops of the loaves. Sprinkle rosemary over the loaves and lightly press into the surface. Let the loaves rise again until doubled, about 45 min. Preheat oven to 450 F.

Lightly sprinkle salt over the loaves. Bake for 20 – 25 min, until lightly browned.

 

 

In a Seafood Mood? Try…

–Romano’s Macaroni Grill Baked Creamy Seafood–

 

4 tablespoons butter

1 cup bay scallops, rinsed and drained (8 oz)

3 tablespoons flour

2 cups half and half

1-1/2 cups asiago

2 cups medium, peeled, deveined cooked shrimp

1 6 oz. can clams, well drained

1 to 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

oil, for frying

1/2 12 oz. package won ton.

 

In a massive skillet, melt 1 containerful butter. Add scallops and stir fry over high heat until just cooked through; set aside in bowl. In same skillet, melt remaining 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth and bubbly. Cook and stir 1 min. Whisk in half-and-half and continue whisking until mixture comes to a boil.

Boil 1 min, whisking, until bubbly. Turn off the heat. Add Asiago cheese, stirring until melted. Stir in the scallops, shrimp, and clams. Spoon into a 9″ glass pie plate. Sprinkle with the Parmesan.

Bake in a preheated 350 deg. oven for about 15 min., until the top is golden brown. Meanwhile, heat plenty of oil in a deep fryer to 375 deg. Fry 3-4 won ton skins at a time, a few seconds on apiece side, until just golden. Drain on paper towels. Use won tons as chips for dipping into baked seafood appetizer.

Please Note: If you don’t feel inclined to fry the wanton skins to make chips, the seafood appetizer is also delicious with tortilla or pita chips or crackers.

 

 

 

–Romano’s Macaroni Grill Penne Rustica–

 

>> Gratinata Sauce:

2 Teaspoon Butter

2 Teaspoon chopped garlic

1 Teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 Teaspoon salt

1 Teaspoon chopped rosemary

1 cup marsala wine

1/4 Teaspoon cayenne pepper

8 cups heavy cream

 

Saute butter, garlic , and rosemary until garlic begins to brown. Add marsala wine and reduce by one-third. Add remaining ingredients and reduce by half of original volume. Set aside.

>> Penne Rustica:

1 Ounce pancetta or bacon

18 apiece shrimp peeled and devained

12 Ounce grilled chicken breast, sliced

4.5 cups of granita sauce

48 Ounce Penne Pasta, precooked

3 Teaspoon pimentos

6 Ounce butter

1 Teaspoon chopped shallots

1 pinch of salt and pepper

1 cups parmesan cheese

1/2 Teaspoon paprika

6 sprigs of fresh rosemary.

 

Saute pancette until begins to brown. Add butter, shallots, and shrimp. Cook until shrimp are evenly pick but still translucent. Add chicken, salt, pepper, and mix thoroughly. Add granita sauce and 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese and simmer until sauce thickens.

In a massive bowl, combine shrimp and chicken mixture with precooked pasta. Place this mixture into single serving dishes or one massive casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and pimentos and sprinkle with paprika.

Bake at 475 for 10-15 minutes. Remove and garnish with fresh rosemary sprig. Serves six.

 

 

Dig In and Enjoy!

 

A Graduate of the Holland College Culinary Course, Brian Alan Burhoe has cooked in Atlantic Coast restaurants for over 30 years. He is a member of the Canadian Culinary Federation. Brian’s articles reflect his interests in food service, dreamstudy, imaginative literature and our ideal friends — our dogs.

His Home Page is A CULINARY MYSTERY TOUR – A Literary Chef. His articles have been reprinted on numerous culinary websites and various Blogs, including the favourite Romantic Relationship site WUVING.com.

And – Here’s a individualized favorite that’s gaining popularity in the restaurants:

–Romano’s Macaroni Grill Vodka Rustica–

 

>> Gratinata Sauce:

3 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons minced garlic

3 tablespoons marsala wine

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup vodka

1/4 cup water

1/2 teaspoon chicken bullion

1 containerful cornstarch

1 containerful Grey Poupon

The Olive Garden House Salad Dressing Recipe – How To Make It At Home For Your Own Dinner Table

1 August 2010 by  
Categories: Culinary

One of the things I like ideal about dinner (or lunch for that matter) at Olive Garden is the huge bowl of their home salad that accompanies each meal. Sharing that salad for some reason makes me thing of sharing a family meal, instead of just intake out. And let’s grappling it … the Olive Garden home salad is just plain delicious. I just had to come up with a version at home that we could have with some of our own favorite meal, right in my kitchen at the dinner table. Here’s my version of this favourite salad dish.

Olive Garden Home Salad Dressing Recipe

1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/3 cup white vinegar 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 2 tablespoons corn syrup 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons Romano cheese 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1/2 teaspoon parsley flakes 1 containerful lemon juice

You can mix this one of two ways. The fastest is to simply toss everything in a blender and blend until well combined.

If you don’t have a blender, or like to mix the dressing by hand, here’s how to do it. Get out a medium bowl and add the mayonnaise and vinegar. Whisk the two together until you have a rather smooth paste. Slowly drip in the oil while whisking fast. Repeat with the corn syrup. Once you have a smooth emulsion, stir in the remaining ingredients, being sure to whisk fast again when you add the lemon juice.

Put any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge and use within 2 days.

For the salad, I simply combine a bag of berg lettuce that already includes some shredded carrot and red pinch with some thinly sliced onion and chopped tomatoes. I toss the salad with the homemade dressing and then add a few pepperoncini from a jar, some black olives and a few croutons to the top and voila… our very own home salad is done.

The Olive Garden Home Salad Dressing Recipe – How To Make It At Home For Your Own Dinner Table

Home Decorating Ideas – Cottage Style Decor Defined

21 July 2010 by  
Categories: Holidays

When you imagine the perfect home interior ambiance does it include the adjectives simple, lightfilled, vintage and comfortable? If so, you might be a candidate for Cottage Style decor! You don’t have to reside in a literal cottage to incorporate this design theme into your lifestyle. The fundamentals of cottage style decor are not difficult to impplement and can be easy on the budget, too.

The color scheme you choose should be light overall for most types of cottage style decorating. A healthy dose of white along with soft shades of green, pink, blue, yellow, aqua and rose will set the cottage tone. If your taste lends more toward a rustic cottage look, you might incorporate more golds and medium shades of green into your decor. Use these colors on your walls, and don’t hesitate to vary the colors from room to room. Keep the shades soft and light, and you can transition beautifully from room to room, keeping the cottage theme prevalent. Try using a deeper tone of one of your selected colors as an accent in the room. For example, if your color scheme includes soft blue, use a bit of navy blue in an area rug, an accent piece, in artwork, etc. Remember to use a light touch and it can make your room even more memorable while maintaining the soft, easy overall look.

The saint floor treatment for this style of decorating is wood, and if you are into the time-worn look, use wood planking or distressing techniques to make newer wood look old. You can paint the floor, stencil the perimeter, stencil an ‘area rug’ onto the floor, or use area rugs, to continue the cottage style theme. If wood flooring is not an option, use light colored carpet or tile if possible, and anchor the main pieces with an area rug.

Furnishings can be handled in a couple of different ways. If you are looking for a tiny more elegance in your cottage style decor, you might decide to use new furniture and accessories, keeping the colors and wood tones light. You can use a mix and match of small artifact patterns on upholstery, pillows, plateau skirts and the like, and still maintain a clean and fresh overall look. The upholstered pieces should be comfortable and informal, with a ‘come sit in me’ look about them.

For those who really enjoy true vintage, and who might also have a leaner budget, flea markets, antique shops, garage sales, etc. can be great sources for cottage style decor. You might find an awesome antique door and decide to cut it down to use as a coffee plateau by adding legs to it. An old compartment or nightstand can be converted into a one-of-a-kind bathroom storage unit. Feel free to paint any piece, using one of the selected shades from your color scheme. Look for vintage prints, fabrics, accessories, and anything that tickles your fancy, no matter what it is.

Cottage style grants for a mix and match of accessories, whether you are showcasing a theme of accessories or all pieces are unique. One caution as you create your cottage style look is to refrain overcrowding and creating a messy, flea market look to your room. Instead, opt for fewer pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind and have a presence of their own. You will be healthy to appreciate the beautiful surround color, one-of-a-kind floor treatment, furnishings and accessories without being overwhelmed by all of the ‘stuff’.

If you need to use your current furniture but want to change the fabric, slipcovers are a great way to do just that with minimal investment. Another budget saving option is to look for well-priced accent pieces and accessories at discount stores such as Homegoods or Target.

Cottage style window treatments are easy and informal. Wood shutters, plantation shutters, and wood blinds are always a good choice for areas that need privacy. If you decide to use artifact for valances or side panels, use an organic artifact such as cotton or a easy weave. Lace works well in this style if you are decorating on the more feminine side.

As you can see, there is not one right or wrong way to decorate Cottage Style. If you keep your selections to light, natural, vintage (real or reproduction), organic materials and colors, you can create your own one-of-a-kind Cottage Style home.

Home Decorating Ideas – Cottage Style Decor Defined

Related Unique Cottages Articles

HOME COOKING: Olive Garden’s Best Recipes You Can Do At Home – pasta frittata, lasagna, Capellini Pomodoro, fettucine alfredo and more

29 April 2010 by  
Categories: Culinary

Olive Garden is a casual dining American restaurant chain specializing in Italian-American food.

 

The ambiance of Olive Garden restaurants seeks to replicate an old-world Italian style, utilizing foliage in their décor, stucco walls, and background music consisting of Italian themes.

And — The food is great!

Olive Garden’s Culinary Institute of Tuscany, located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy in a restored 11th century village, is where Olive Garden’s chefs learn the secrets of great foods in Italy – like how to combine fresh ingredients – to create trusty Italian foods that you’ll enjoy sharing with your family and friends. You can cook your favorites at home — it’s simple and only a fraction of the cost!

 Go ahead!

Astound your family and friends with your culinary abilities!

 

–Olive Garden Lasagna–

Alfredo Sauce:

1/2 lb. sweet or salted butter

12 oz. heavy cream

Fresh ground white pepper

1 1/2 cups fresh Parmesan, grated

Ricotta Cheese Mix:

1 pint Ricotta cheese

2 oz. Romano, grated

3 oz. Mozzarella, shredded

2 tbls. green onions, sliced

2 teas. fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 teas. salt

1/8 teas. black pepper

1/4 teas. dried basil

1/4 teas. dried oregano

1 1/4 cups Alfredo sauce, cooled

Vegetable Mix:

4 cups broccoli florets

2 cups carrots, sliced 1/4″

4 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced 1/4″

2 cups red bell peppers, diced

1 cup green bell pepper, diced 1 cup yellow onion, diced

2 cups zucchini, sliced

Lasagna noodles

18 slices Mozzarella cheese, 1/2 oz. each

Lay out enough dry lasagna strips in a 9×13 pan to ensure you have enough to make 3 full layers, with very tiny overlap on apiece layer. Remove the dry strips and cook according to package instructions until barely “al dente” and drain.

ALFREDO SAUCE: Heat water to a boil in the bottom of a double boiler. Add butter, cream and pepper to the top pot and heat until butter is absolutely melted, then stir in Parmesan until melted and blended.

Remove top pot and set aside to cool. Divide the Olive Garden Lasagna 307 sauce into 2 equal portions. Refrigerate 1 portion for use later.

RICOTTA CHEESE MIX: Combine all ingredients in a bowl and blend thoroughly with a rubber spatula. Set aside at room temp.

VEGETABLES: Combine all veggies and mix well.

ASSEMBLY: Coat the bottom and sides of a 9×13 baking dish with vegetable spray. Lay out cooked lasagna strips (about 4) to cover entire bottom. Spread 1-1/4 c of the Ricotta mix evenly over the strips. Top with 8 c of veggie mix and spread out evenly. Lay out 9 of the mozzarella slices to cover the veggie layer. Repeat this layering. Top the second layer of mozzarella slices with lasagna strips and spread them evenly with 1-1/4 c ricotta cheese mix to finish.

COOKING: Spray a sheet of foil with vegetable spray and cover the baking dish tightly with the foil, sprayed side down. Bake in a preheated 375F oven for about an hour or until the internal temp is 165F. Remove from the oven and grant to sit for a few minutes, covered, before slicing and serving. Immediately prior to serving, heat the reserved portion of Alfredo Sauce and take the hot sauce over apiece slice of lasagna as it is served.

 

–Olive Garden Pasta Frittata–

12 Ounce spaghetti, cooked, cut into 2″ pieces

3 Ounce green onions, sliced

3 Ounce thick bacon, cooked and chopped

vegetable spray or margarine

3 tblsp Fontina, shredded, heaping

Parmesan, grated

3 3/4 cup

FRITTATA BATTER: 6 Medium eggs

2 1/2 cups Half and half

5 Teaspoon cornstarch

1 dash nutmeg

Preheat oven to 350F.

 

FRITTATA BATTER: Beat eggs, half and half, cornstarch, salt and nutmeg thoroughly until all ingredients are absolutely blended. Blend the 2″ spaghetti pieces, green onion rings and bacon pieces in a bowl until evenly mixed.

Coat a 1-1/2 qt round baking dish, including walls, with spray or margarine. Empty the spaghetti mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly. Add the frittata batter to cover the filling mix.

Bake in a 350~ oven for about 25 minutes until center is set. When center is set, cover the frittata evenly with the Fontina and bake until cheese is golden. Turn off the heat and open oven door. Let the frittata set in the open oven for 15 minutes for the batter to set more firmly and make removing from the dish easy. Before serving, sprinkle with Parmesan and cut into 4 wedges.

 

–Olive Garden Shrimp Primavera–

SAUCE:

6 tbsp. butter or margarine

1 tbsp. garlic, fresh, minced

1 oz. package Knorr Newburg Sauce Mix (or similar)

32 oz. crushed tomatoes, canned

1-1/2 tbsp. lemon juice, fresh

1/4 tsp. (or to taste) red pepper, crushed

1/2 tsp. basil, dry

1/4 tsp. marjoram, dry

1/2 tsp. black pepper

VEGETABLES:

1/2 lb. mushrooms, halved (or quartered if large)

1 cup green bell peppers, cut into 1″ squares

1 cup red bell peppers, cut into 1″ squares

1/2 cup yellow onion, cut into 1″ squares

2 Tbsp. butter for sauting

PASTA:

1 lb. fresh Olive Garden Linguine (or calibre dry pasta)

SHRIMP:

1 lb. medium to massive fully cooked shrimp, thawed and drained Melt butter in 3-quart saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook one minute. Add remaining spice and tomato ingredients, stir well and simmer for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a massive saute pan, melt 2 tbsp. butter. Saute vegetables about 3 minutes until crisp – tender. Add to the sauce and simmer 5 minutes more.

Cook pasta according to directions. When pasta is nearly done, stir shrimp into sauce to heat through. Do not boil. Spoon Primavera over hot linguine. Pass Parmesan cheese.

 

–Olive Garden Capellini Pomodoro–

3 cloves Garlic, mince

2 pounds Plum tomatoes; seeded, diced

1 ounce Fresh basil leaves, minced

1/3 cup Extra virgin olive oil

3 ounces Parmesan cheese

12 ounces Dry angel hair pasta, cooked

1/4 teaspoon Pepper

Heat olive oil and add garlic; cook until it turns white. Add tomatoes and pepper and heat through, stirring constantly, about 2 to 3 minutes. Tomatoes should not lose their shape.

Remove from heat. Transfer hot, cooked pasta to massive bowl. Toss pasta gently with tomato mixture, basil and half of Parmesan cheese.

Serve immediately and pass remaining Parmesan.

 

–Olive Garden Fettucine Alfredo–

8 ounces Cream cheese — cut in bits

3/4 cup Parmesan cheese — grated

1/2 cup Butter or margarine

1/2 cup Milk

8 ounces Fettuccine; cook — drain

In massive saucepan combine cream cheese, Parmesan, butter and milk, stirring constantly until smooth. Toss pasta lightly with sauce, coating well. Leftovers freeze well.

 

 

–Olive Garden Home Dressing–

8 ounces Paul Newman’s Vinegar and Oil Dressing

1 clove garlic, peeled and minced

1/2 teaspoon Dried basil 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano

3 packages Sweet and Low — or 1 containerful Sugar

Put ingredients into the bottle of dressing and shake well. Refrigerate 24 hours before using.

 

–Olive Garden Tiramisu Dessert–

1 Sponge cake, (10 to 12 inch about 3″ tall)

3 ounces Strong black coffee, or instant espresso

3 ounces Brandy or rum

1-1/2 pounds Cream cheese or mascarpone, room temperature

1-1/2 cups Superfine/powdered sugar

Unsweetened cocoa powder

Cut crossways middle of sponge block forming two layers, apiece about 1 1/2 inches high.

Blend coffee and brandy. Sprinkle enough of mixture over bottom half of block to flavor it strongly. Don’t moisten block too much or it might collapse on serving.

Beat room-temperature cheese and 1 cup sugar until sugar is absolutely dissolved and cheese is light and spreadable. Test for sweetness during beating, adding more sugar if needed.

Spread cut surface of bottom layer with half of the cheese mixture. Replace second layer and top this with remaining cheese mixture. Sprinkle top liberally with sifted cocoa.

Refrigerate block for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.

 

Brian Alan Burhoe has cooked in Atlantic Coast restaurants for over 30 years, and holds rustic and national certificates in the culinary trade.  More of his articles can be found at A CULINARY MYSTERY TOUR – A Literary Chef  and at the #1 canine information site PUPPY DOGS INFO – Dog Breeds, Training, Care & History

 

Buon appetito!

HOME COOKING: Olive Garden’s Ideal Recipes You Can Do At Home – pasta frittata, lasagna, Capellini Pomodoro, fettucine alfredo and more

More Olive Garden Restaurant Articles

« Prev

TopOfBlogs Get more followers How To Increase Page Rank