Summer Garden Salad

Today's Dinner: Summer Garden Salad

Mixed greens (spinach and lettuce from my garden)
Grilled chicken (on sale)
Strawberries (also from my garden)
slivered almonds
chow mein noodles
Raspberry Viniagrette (on sale)

Layer ingredients in order listed.  Enjoy!

Leftover MacGyver: The Garlic Chicken and Rice edition

So. Yesterday's dinner was crock pot garlic chicken and rice.  Only one picky eater boycotted.

However, I wanted to clear out the fridge leftovers (and freezer leftovers), but didn't have enough leftovers for a full meal.

So, I sauteed an orange pepper and a big onion in olive oil til they both were soft and the onion was translucent.  Then I threw in all the leftover chicken rice and heated it through.  Once it was all steaming nicely, I added about a cup of thawed homemade tomato sauce (some of the last from last tomato season).

I told the kids it was "Confetti Rice" because of all the pretty colors.  It was a big hit with all but the one picky eater (and she's still on the fence).

We're gonna call this one a win.

Apple Pudding

Last night I made Apple Pudding from the Betty Crocker book.  It was really amazing.
When I saw pudding, I immediately think "Jello-pudding", but this was more old-fashioned, almost like bread pudding. 
There was only a handful of ingredients and at first I thought the mixture would be too dry, but I had to let it sit while I greased the pan and it got moist on it's own.  I do think that adding more apples than are in the recipe is a good idea.
Once it's baked, it's like a cross between apple pie and coffee cake with the best of both--no crust to worry about and lots of soft, warm apple goodness.
For presentation, a dollop of whipped cream or cream and a drizzle of carmel sauce makes a laid-back, easy dessert company ready.

Quick, easy, inexpensive comfort food.