Blueberry Zucchini Bread

Fortunately for us in Georgia, blueberries are one of the most abundant fruits that grow during the summer months.  And since eating local produce is a good for the local economy,  you have every excuse to indulge and eat as much as you want.  Besides, blueberries are extremely healthy for you.  They are chock-full of antioxidants that help to ward of diseases like cancer. 

Here is a delicious recipe for Blueberry Zucchini Bread that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.  Try hitting up a local farmers market for the ingredients!  My favorite in the are is the Dekalb Farmer’s Market.  It’s a good 25 minutes from Cameron Landing in Stockbridge, but the variety of foods there is unmatched in the area.

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease 4 mini-loaf pans.
2. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, oil, vanilla, and sugar. Fold in the zucchini. Beat in the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon. Gently fold in the blueberries. Transfer to the prepared mini-loaf pans.
3. Bake 50 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a knife inserted in the center of a loaf comes out clean. Cool 20 minutes in pans, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

(Credit: AllRecipes.com)

Atlanta Braves back on top of the National League

With an 8-0 win last night against the San Diego Padres (55-39), the Atlanta Braves (56-39) blasted their way to a half-game lead on top of the National League standings.  The young team is looking very good midway through the season, and the acquisition of slugger Alex Gonzalez fromt the Toronto Blue Jays is proving to be one of the best moves in MLB this season.

I think the Braves are equipped to make a deep run for a pennant this year.  In any case, to celebrate their success, I’m going to whip up a batch of delicious Caramel Corn.  Hey, if I can’t be at the ballpark munching on Cracker Jacks, this is the next best thing.  Try it out and let me know what you think!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unpopped popcorn (or use equivalent amount of prepared microwaved popcorn)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F(150 degrees C).
2. In a large pot, heat oil over high heat. Add the unpopped popcorn. Moving the pan constantly, pop the corn. Remove from heat, place in a large baking pan, and keep warm in the preheated oven. Discard unpopped kernels. I think microwavable popcorn would also do the trick, if you prefer.
3. Mix sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt into a large saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until mixture starts to boil. Continue cooking for 5 minutes without stirring.
4. Remove from heat. Stir in baking soda and vanilla. Pour over the popped popcorn. Stir popcorn until evenly coated. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven, stirring every 10 minutes. Remove from pan and put into a large bowl to cool.

(Photo Credit: craftpad.com)

Mardi Gras is Today

Today is Fat Tuesday also known as Mardi Gras. It is the day that many cut loose before they begin their six-week recognition of Lent. There will be  plenty of happenings and to do around the country today as people  prepare for the Mardi Gras festivities.

If you are looking for something to do why not gather the neighbors and share a slice of Mardi Gras King Cake.

Looking for an Easy Recipe?

I’m not much of a cook, but that doesn’t mean I don’t like to try. I found this really cool website that has tons of easy recipes just waiting for you. Pick one and let me know which one you recommend.