“Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake” For "National Coffee Day!"

Welcome to “Wordless Tuesday!” Where there is always a yummy recipe for you to try …. Enjoy! 

Come on in, would you like a cup of hot coffee?…How do you like your coffee, with cream, milk, or sugar? I know you must be so happy that I have coffee on…. Who doesn’t like a cup of hot coffee? It is so comforting and tastes so splendid.

Join me as we celebrate “National Coffee Day!” This day is a worldwide event observed annually on September 29th. People across the United States celebrate one of the most beloved morning beverages on National Coffee Day. It is a morning favorite, however, it is found being served throughout the day. Either hot, cold, black, or with additives such as cream, creamers, milk, sugar, flavored syrups, or ice. 

There are many legendary accounts of how coffee first came to be but the earliest credible evidence of either coffee drinking or the knowledge of the coffee tree appears in the middle of the 15th century in the Sufi monasteries around Mokha in Yemen. It was here where coffee seeds were first roasted and brewed, similar to how it is prepared today. Yemeni traders brought coffee back to their homeland from Ethiopia and began to cultivate the seed.

In 1670, coffee seeds were smuggled out of the Middle East by Baba Budan, as he strapped seven coffee seeds onto his chest.  The first plants grown from these smuggled seeds were planted in Mysore. It was then that coffee spread to Italy, to the rest of Europe, to Indonesia, and then to the Americas.

This day is also used to promote fair trade coffee and to raise awareness for the plight of the coffee growers. Many businesses around the world offer free or discounted cups of coffee. Some businesses share coupons and special deals with their loyal followers. For overworked doctors, teachers, college kids, EMS, police, fireman, music artists, singers, chefs, bakers, authors, and yes, even bloggers, “National Coffee Day” should be every day. And we can’t turn down a free cup of coffee when it’s available. So check your newspapers, look at advertisements or even go to your local coffee shops and see what deals you can get, to celebrate National Coffee Day! Maybe a free cup of coffee………..

Here are some places to get that free cup of coffee…Dunkin Donuts, Starbucks, Krispy Kreme on September 29--is giving you a free glazed doughnut and a free cup of coffee. Whole Foods Markets- nationwide have been celebrating National Coffee Day by giving customers a cup of coffee for just 25 cents! Even better, for every cup of coffee purchase you could help support a good cause. If you buy an Allegro Coffee for a quarter, Whole Foods will donate $1 to the Whole Planet Foundation.

Won’t it be marvelous to have a treat, like a piece of coffee cake to go with your coffee! There are many reasons to love coffee cake, but the fact that you can consume it for breakfast is tops on that list. Even if we have pancakes, French toast, and waffles to choose from in the morning, there's something really nice about having cake present at the breakfast table too. It just feels right. Coffee cake isn't only right for breakfast. It's invited any time there's coffee -- or even if there's just a coffee table present. For those of you who think coffee cake is not for you just because you don't want a cup of java, think again. Coffee cake is right for everyone -- even for the tea drinker like me. Please join me as I share with you my recipe this week for a delicious “Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake” Enjoy!

                                            “Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake”

If you like crumb topping as much as cake, this recipe's for you. A thick layer of cinnamon-spiced crumb topping sits on top of this coffee cake that starts with a cake mix.

Serves: Makes 24 servings

Ingredients:
2 cups flour
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons ground Cinnamon
1 cup (2 sticks) cold butter, cut into chunks
1 package (2-layer size) white cake mix 
1 egg
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon pure Vanilla extract

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix flour, sugars, and cinnamon in large bowl. Cut in cold butter with pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside. 

Beat cake mix, egg, sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed about 1 minute or just until mixed.

Spread evenly in greased and floured 13x9-inch baking pan. Sprinkle evenly with topping mixture. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until cake pulls away from sides of pan. Cool on wire rack. Cut into squares to serve.

 

Till Next Time………………………………...................

Copyright © 2015 “Family Plus Food Equals Love” All Rights Reserved

Dottie’s "Apple Pie” Recipe & “The Apple Cocktail” As Fall Begins….

I feel a chill in the air! The leaves are starting to fall. This means only one thing, that fall has turned the corner. The first day of autumn was Wednesday, the Autumnal Equinox. It is so hard to believe that the summer went by so fast and here we are in the fall season. I am ready for the fall, are you? 

When it gets cooler, I love to open the windows and just be able to breathe the crisp air that comes at this time of year. To me this is a magical season. Pumpkins, apples, Indian corn, and gourds are all around us. The colors of the leaves, with its gold, red, and green hues that are so brilliant it is like a kaleidoscope of colors. The hustle and bustle of the approaching holidays, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and my favorite of all, Christmas. The chill in the air means sweaters, jackets, and rosy cheeks on children’s faces from playing outside in the leaves. As you look inside the windows of the houses, you can see families cooking, fireplaces lit, and you get the feeling of a warm cozy home. 

Cooking hearty meals, such as stews, soups, baked bread, and apple pies are all aromas that enhance your senses that fall is here. As you take a brisk walk in the nippy air you can see pumpkins, wreaths, and scarecrows decorating the houses on the blocks. To me fall is also a time to be thankful for your family and your friends. So, now that you know what autumn means to me, come along and let us explore the “Apple”as September is the "National Apple Month."

Fun Fact: There are over 2,500 varieties of apples.

“Johnny Appleseed Day” honors one of America's great legends. Johnny Appleseed was a real person. John Chapman (aka Johnny Appleseed) was among the American settlers who were captivated by the movement west across the continent. As Johnny Appleseed traveled west, he planted apple trees along the way, and sold trees to settlers. With every apple tree that was planted, the legend grew. He was born on September 26, 1774. (This happens to be on Saturday) He started out planting trees in western New York and Pennsylvania. During the life of John Chapman, the "West" was places like Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois. John Chapman was a deeply religious person He was known to preach during his travels. 

According to legend, Johnny Appleseed led a simple life and wanted little. He rarely accepted money and often donated any money he received. It is believed that he died on March 11, 1845, from what was referred to as the "winter plague." The actual date of his death has been disputed. Johnny Appleseed is said to have worn a tin pot on his head to cook his meals in while on his journeys. While this claim is legend, he did frequently travel with a pot in his belongings and a satchel full of seeds.

Did you know? If you threw an apple in water, it wouldn’t sink. Apples float in water! This is because 25% of their volume consists of air.

Did you know? The deeper the colors if an apple, means that the more sugars, and more flavor they contain.

Apples are one of the few fruits you can find fresh any time of the year, especially September through November. However, to me the apple is the one fruit that I associate with fall more than any other. Apples are America’s favorite fruit. The state of Washington grows the most apples followed by New York, and then Michigan. This is a perfect time of the year to head on out to an apple orchard and pick your own apples for a pie, applesauce, or even baked apples. But to me the best way is to pick one off of the tree and try it. There is nothing like the crisp, cool, crunch you hear as you take a bite of this juicy, sweet piece of fruit. Today we have numerous varieties of apples to choose from. Some are best to eat while others are best for cooking and baking. You must have heard the old saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” This saying comes from an old English adage, “To eat an apple before going to bed, will make the doctor beg for his bread.”

Fun Fact: In the 1980’s, the Red Delicious accounted for three-quarters of the harvest in Washington State.

Did you know?: That Honey Crisp apples are one of the most sought after apples in the U.S.

Fun Fact: Country to popular belief, Fuji apples are named for Fujisaki town, not for Mount Fuji.

So, in honor of the beginning of fall, apple season, and Johnny Appleseed, I am sharing with you my “Apple Pie” recipe. This pie is a favorite among my family and friends. After years of making this scrumptious pie, I have perfected its fruity richness and I’m sure it will be very pleasing to your taste buds. Enjoy and make memories!

Dottie’s “Apple Pie”

Ingredients:
8-10 apples (Macintosh and 2 Granny Smith)
1 cup of granulated sugar or less
1/4 teaspoon of salt
2 1/2 tablespoons of flour
1 teaspoon of cinnamon
1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
1 recipe of Pillsbury Pie Crust (just unroll)
(You can make your own crust, but this is a time saver)
Secret ingredient is a dash of fresh Nutmeg 

Directions:
Pare and slice apples very, very thin. Sift dry ingredients together and mix with apples. Line pie pan (9 inch glass or aluminum pie tin) with the pastry crust. Fill with apple mixture, dot with butter before putting on top of crust. Then put top crust on the pie. Crimp edges, cut three slits in top of pie or use a pie stencil. Brush pie with milk, cream, or egg wash. Then sprinkle the pie top with some granulated sugar before baking. Bake in a very HOT oven 450 ° for the first 15 minutes. Then reduce temperature to 350 ° for the next 45 minutes or longer till golden brown. Put pie on lined cookie pan, (foil or parchment paper) so if any drippings come out from the pie, it will be easier for clean up.

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“The Apple Cocktail”

Yields: 1 drink

Ingredients:
1 whole apple, one with a flat bottom
1 lemon wedge
1 apple wedge, cut in half
1 oz unsweetened apple juice
1 ounce Limoncello
1/2 ounce Vanilla Vodka
Splash cranberry juice
1 cinnamon stick, for garnish
Short clear straw

Directions:
Core the apple to about the halfway point. Be certain not to cut through the bottom. Use the lemon wedge to squeeze a small amount of lemon juice on inside of cored apple. That is so the apple does not get brown. Then set aside. In mixing glass, muddle apple wedge and unsweetened apple juice. Add Limoncello, Vanilla Vodka, and cranberry juice. Shake well. Strain into cored apple and serve with a small straw. Garnish with a cinnamon stick. 

 (Please Drink Responsibly)

Till Next Time………..

Copyright © 2015 “Family Plus Food Equals Love” All Rights Reserved

“Everyday Salisbury Steak” & “Mashed Sweet Potatoes” For "Wordless Tuesday"

Welcome to “Wordless Tuesday!” I have a couple of spectacular recipes for you to try…...Enjoy!

Tomorrow, Wednesday September 23rd is the first day of Autumn! So this meal brings you back to those chilly nights, leaves falling, cozy, and comfy in the kitchen where the family always seems to gravitate. 

Ever wonder about where Salisbury Steak originated from? I’m always interested in who created this meal. So with the help of the Internet, I used “Google” and this is what I found out about this timeless dish.

Salisbury steak is a dish made from a blend of ground beef and other ingredients, which is shaped to resemble a steak, and is usually served with brown gravy and mushrooms. Salisbury steak was invented by an American physician, Dr. J. H. Salisbury (1823–1905), an early promoter of a low-carbohydrate diet for weight loss. The term "Salisbury Steak" has been in use in the United States since 1897. This dish is popular and it is traditionally served with gravy and mashed potatoes or noodles.

TV Dinner: Salisbury Steak with Mac & Cheese

For me Salisbury Steak conjures up memories of what I would have for dinner when I was young and going to school. Once in a great while my mom would make TV dinners for supper, especially if it was a busy day. This meal did have potential, if someone simply gave it some thought and a bit of creative effort. Well, I have a recipe for you that you will never think about those TV dinners again. A delicious meal of Salisbury Steak and Mashed Sweet Potatoes. I hope you and your family enjoy this rendition as much as my family does.

“Everyday Salisbury Steak”

Yield: 4 servings Total time: 30 Minutes

Ingredients:
1/3 cup grated onion, divided
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground sirloin
Cooking spray
1 tbsp unsalted butter
8 oz button mushrooms, quartered
1/2 red bell pepper thinly sliced
1/3 cup dry red wine *** see note below
1 1/4 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp red wine vinegar

Directions:
Combine 1/4 cup onion, pepper, salt, garlic, and beef in a large bowl. Shape into 4 (1/2-inch-thick) patties. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Coat with cooking spray. Add patties; cook 3 minutes on each side or until browned. Melt butter in pan. Add mushrooms and red pepper, sauté 4 minutes. Stir in wine and remaining onion; cook 2 minutes. Combine broth and flour in a small bowl, and then add to pan, and bring to a boil. Cook 5 minutes or until thick. Add patties and vinegar to pan; cook 2 minutes. Serve the steaks with the gravy ladled over the top and garnish with diced flat leaf Italian Parsley.

***Note: If you're cooking for kids, omit the wine and replace with more beef broth.

                      
“Mashed Sweet Potatoes”

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:
5 or 6 large sweet potatoes, peeled
1 stick butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
A pinch of Nutmeg
1 tbsp pure honey 
(more or less to taste)

Directions:
Peel potatoes and cut into quarters. Simmer in a large 3-4 quart pot of water add some salt to the water. After 20 minutes or so, test potatoes with a fork to see if they are fully tender. When cooked, drain water and return sweet potatoes to pan over still-warm burner (leave burner off or on very low heat). Add butter to bottom of pan and stir until melted. Using a potato masher, mash the sweet potatoes with the butter, adding salt and pepper, to taste. Add Nutmeg and then honey to sweeten, stirring thoroughly. Do not over sweeten the potatoes; the honey should be barely perceptible but it should enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Serve mounded with a pat of butter, if desired.

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****From September 22nd-27th - Pope Francis will be making a historic visit to the United States. Just want to wish Pope Francis a safe and blessed trip while he is visiting America.*****

Till Next Time………………………………...................

Copyright © 2015 “Family Plus Food Equals Love” All Rights Reserved

Heads will turn with “National Fall Hat Month” “Crispy Coconut & Scallion Breaded Chicken Cutlets” & “Creamy Blue Cheese Slaw”

Do you wear hats? I know lots of people who do and look absolutely stunning in them. I personally am a hat person. I grew up wearing a hat, especially in the winter. There are so many hats to choose from. How about you? Are you a hat person?

September just happens to be "National Fall Hat Month" and this quirky holiday couldn't come at a better time. The official day of fall is next week and temperatures are getting cooler. So it's time to dig out those hats that have been hiding in closets during the warmer months. Hats are a hallmark of the fall season. They can introduce a look, camouflage a bad hair day, and combat the nip in the air.

Fall Hat Month is always celebrated in the month of September. Both men and women wear hats and hats have been a part of our history for years. A hat is a head covering which may be worn for protection against the elements, for religious reasons, for safety, or as a fashion accessory. In the past, hats were an indicator of social status. In the military, they denote rank and regiment. Purveyors of men's hats are called “Hatters” and purveyors of women's hats are called “Milliners.”

Audrey Hepburn

As we know both men and women wear hats from time to time, but it was not so long ago that you didn’t leave the house without some type of hat on your head, no matter who you were or your occupation. Just like clothes fashion, hats helped depict a time period. Just visualize a black top hat and right away you think of Abraham Lincoln in the 1800‘s. In more modern times, there was the pink pillbox hat worn by First Lady Jackie Kennedy in the 1960’s. Hats have always been a part of our history. Others who were known for there hats were Sherlock Holmes, Eliza Doolittle  from “My Fair Lady,” Indiana Jones famous hat in the Raiders of the Lost Ark film series,  John Wayne’s cowboy hat, one of the most famous person who wears hats is Queen Elizabeth II, and the list goes on.
  

"Nanni with her fall hat"

The same is true about our ancestors. Many of the photographs we might have collected of our family through the years will have them wearing a hat, whether they were indoors or outside. So with the month of September being National Hat Month, this is a great opportunity to revisit those photographs and really look to see how many have worn hats and even children wearing hats. There are many styles and just as many names for those styles. There is the derby hat, newsboy cap, a beanie, a top hat and the large brimmed hats, to name a few. It is the very large broad brimmed ladies’ hats of the 1900 to 1915 period that were over the top. You often wondered how they managed to carry such a large hat and not fall over from the weight. Feathers on these large hats also nearly wiped out many bird species. Besides feathers, there might be even ribbons, bows, flowers, and beads all piled on the hat.

I remember going to NYC in the garment district when I was younger with my Nanni (grandmother) for her hat supplies as she was a Milliner. She owned her own shop and called herself “Roberta Originals.” Later on in her life she also was an Interior Designer. One of my many memories of going to her shop which was in Astoria, Queens was helping her for the day. She would take me on the bus and we would go into New York City in the garment district so she could get her supplies for her hats.

Nanni's business card before she moved the shop to Astoria

It was always an experience to be with her as she would teach me about many ways to be creative. Sometimes when we would be in the garment district she would bring me to a store that would carry buttons, scarves, feathers, felt, material and many other bric-a-brac that she used to create her “Originals.“ My Nanni you could say was very flamboyant in her ways. She always dressed to the nines and would expect me to be very prim and proper. Her hats were so beautiful and always different. All I had to do is have a hat on, (at that time they used hats when I was a young girl) she would take a chiffon scarf out of her closet and drape it on the hat, and a new hat would be born. 

"Nanni"

Her hats were gorgeous! I especially loved the big floppy hats with the feathers and beautiful colors with bric-a-brac on them. I would always try on her hats and then she would be able to see where to put the accessories on her newest creations. You could say I was her hat model. She made hats for so many people and functions. I also remember that she would always have beautiful Hat Pins to add to her hats. These pins were very long and had a big end to them encrusted with jewelry, rhinestones, or beads. They were always on display in these vases like holders made from ceramic. 

"Hat Pins"

After her passing, I inherited many of her hats, felt ones, ones with feathers, and many with just scarves around the brim. I even have one with fox fur around the hat and a scarf that matches. Her hats were always put in these beautiful big hat boxes to store them year after year. I always show off one of her hats on my dresser according to the season. Every time I look at my dresser and see her hat, I always remember my Nanni and her exuberant ways to share her special profession and love of hats.

So in honor of National Fall Hat Month and a tribute to my Nanni, I have two recipes this week to share. You can pair a Pinot Grigio, Merlot, or a Sauvignon Blanc wine with this dinner.

“Crispy Coconut and Scallion Breaded Chicken Cutlets”

A crispy coconut breading is a healthier way to add sweetness and crunch to this creative chicken recipe.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:
3/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut 
1/4 cup Panko bread crumbs
2 scallions
1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
1 large egg
8 small chicken cutlets
Salt and pepper
4 tbsp olive oil

Directions:
In a shallow bowl, combine the coconut, panko, and scallions. Place the flour in a second shallow bowl and beat the egg with 1 tablespoon water in a third. Season the chicken cutlets with 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Dip each in the flour, then the egg, letting any excess drip off, then coat in the coconut mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add half the cutlets and cook until golden brown and cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes per side; transfer to a plate and wipe out the skillet. Repeat with the remaining oil and cutlets. Serve with “Creamy Blue Cheese Slaw”below or a salad of your choice.

In front of Nanni's Shop

“Creamy Blue Cheese Slaw”

Rich, pungent blue cheese gives this crunchy slaw a surprising creaminess and luxurious flavor.

Serves: 4

Ingredients:
1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream
3 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. granulated sugar
Salt and pepper
1 tbsp fennel seeds
1/2 small red cabbage
1/2 small Red Onion
1 Granny Smith apple
1/2 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 oz. blue cheese

Directions:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lemon juice, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; stir in the fennel seeds (if using). Add the cabbage, onion, and apple and toss to coat. Fold in the parsley and all but 1 tablespoon blue cheese. Sprinkle the remaining blue cheese over the top before serving. Enjoy!




(Recipe from Woman's Day)

Till Next Time……………………………….................

Copyright © 2015 “Family Plus Food Equals Love” All Rights Reserved  

“Mama's Stuffed Cucuzza Long” For "Wordless Tuesday"

Welcome to “Wordless Tuesday!” Where I have a mouthwatering recipe which I know you will love ……..Enjoy!

I remember my mother used to make a type of squash called Cucuzza (means super long squash), but we called it in Italian “goo-gutzalong.” She would take this Italian squash and stuff it with a meatball stuffing, cook it, and serve it over rice. Cucuzza comes from the southern regions of Italy; Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. Its skin color is light green and the shape is very long, curved and bottom heavy. It is prepared just like zucchini and has the same tender, mildly-sweet flavor with it‘s pure white flesh. This Italian squash can grow to three feet in length. The season for this squash is from June until frost.  Cucuzza is high in vitamin C and fiber plus contains no fat or sodium. Italian legend says, “Eat Cucuzza and you will prosper and live a long life…” 

(my mom, Madeline)

Italian recipes using Cucuzza range from very simple to quite complex. Anyway you prepare this sweet appealing squash would be a palatable experience and certainly full of flavor. I would love to share with you my mom’s recipe, called “Stuffed Cucuzza Long.” Mangia! Molto Bene! 

"Mama's Stuffed Cucuzza Long”


Ingredients:
1 long Cucuzza
Onions
Celery cut in chunks plus leaves
Tomato sauce (small amount)
Olive Oil just to coat bottom of pot
Salt & pepper to taste
1 recipe of “Mama’s Meatballs” (click link)

Directions:
Prepare Cucuzza by peeling it and cutting it in rounds or cylinders about 2”inches thick. Next take out the seeds and leave most of the white pulp, just enough to be able to stuff with meatball stuffing mix. Put aside and prepare the un-cooked meatball mix. Once that is ready you can now stuff the cut rounds of uncooked Cucuzza. Stuff but not overflowing, then put aside. Now take a Dutch oven or large heavy pot and coat the bottom with some olive oil. Cut up your onions and celery. Once oil is shimmering add the onions and celery, sauté till somewhat soft, then add about 1/2 cup of tomato sauce for color. Stir and then add your rounds of stuffed Cucuzza. Add some salt/pepper and water to pot not to cover the squash, but just enough to go half way up each piece, to cook in. Cover and cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes. You need to turn each piece every 10 minutes, so each piece gets cooked and remember you are cooking uncooked meat. If you need more water add a small amount at a time. Cook for about 1 hour or so depending on the size of your Cucuzza rounds. You can serve over rice. Enjoy!   

Till Next Time………………………….

Copyright © 2015 “Family Plus Food Equals Love” All Rights Reserved.

“Fresh, No Bake Blueberry Pie” In Honor Of The 9-11 Memorial

That Tuesday, (September 11, 2001) started out like any other day…I had on the Today Show and after drinking my tea, I went to take a shower. After my shower, my phone kept ringing, so I answered it and my husband was on the phone…He asked me if I was watching TV and told him that I had it on, but was in the shower. I could hear fear and tension in his voice, so I said to him, “what is wrong?” He told me that if I put on the news I could see what had happened, he said, “at 8:46 am a plane American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City.” I had to sit down and I couldn’t believe what I was hearing and seeing. Then at 9:03 am –another plane United Airlines Flight 175 crashed into the WTC’s South Tower. At that time everyone did not understand what was happening, but realized later that day that these crashes killed everyone on board and hundreds inside the building as well as others outside.

Then another tragic incident happened at  9:37 am –Hijackers aboard Flight 77 crashed another plane into the western side of the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., killing 59 aboard the plane and 125 military and civilian personnel inside the building. At 9:59 am –The South Tower of the World Trade Center collapses. At 10:07 am–After passengers and crew members aboard the hijacked Flight 93 contact friends and family and learn about the attacks in New York and Washington, they mount an attempt to retake the plane. In response, hijackers deliberately crash the plane into a field in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, killing all 40 passengers and crew aboard. Then tragically at 10:28 am –The World Trade Center’s North Tower collapses, 102 minutes after being struck by Flight 11. The rest is history that we will never forget!
    

Today is the 14th Anniversary of September 11, 2001, a day most Americans and the world will never forget. A terrorist attack on America took place that day, and thousands of people lost their lives. Over 2,996 (2,977 victims + 19 hijackers) the entire country as well as the world was impacted by this tragic day’s events. Non-fatal injuries were 6,000 +.  Within hours of the attack, a substantial search and rescue operation was launched. After months of around-the-clock operations, the World Trade Center site was cleared by the end of May 2002.

On the day of the attacks, New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani stated: "We will rebuild. We're going to come out of this stronger than before, politically stronger, and economically stronger. The skyline will be made whole again." The damaged section of the Pentagon was rebuilt and occupied within a year of the attacks. The temporary World Trade Center PATH station opened in late 2003 and construction of the new 7 World Trade Center was completed in 2006. Work on rebuilding the main World Trade Center site was delayed until late 2006 when leaseholder Larry Silverstein and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey agreed on financing. The construction of One World Trade Center began on April 27, 2006, and reached its full height on May 20, 2013. The spire was installed atop the building at that date, putting 1 WTC's height at 1,776 feet and thus claiming the title of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. #1 WTC finished construction and opened on November 3, 2014.

In the days immediately following the attacks, many memorials and vigils were held around the world, and photographs of the dead and missing were posted around Ground Zero. A witness described being unable to "get away from faces of innocent victims who were killed. Their pictures are everywhere, on phone booths, street lights, walls of subway stations. Everything reminded me of a huge funeral, people quiet and sad, but also very nice. Before, New York gave me a cold feeling; now people were reaching out to help each other.”

On every anniversary, in New York City, the names of the victims who died there are read out against a background of somber music. The President of the United States attends a memorial service at the Pentagon, and asks Americans to observe Patriot Day with a moment of silence. Smaller services are held in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, which are usually attended by the President's spouse.

I would like to say that my heart and prayers go out to the families that have lost loved ones in the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Plus, my prayers also go to the First Responders, who have lost their lives due to their bravery. Plus we can’t forget the animals that helped in the recovery. May our country and the world be safe and may “God Bless America!”

If you would like to learn more information about the “911 Memorial and Museum,” just click on this link, “911 Memorial and Museum.”

In honor of all who lost their lives and families, my recipe today is what America is known for….“Pies.” Blueberry pie was first eaten by early American settlers and remains a popular dessert in the United States and Canada. Blueberry pie made with wild Maine blueberries is the official state dessert of the U.S. state of Maine. Blueberry pie has been documented in the Appledore Cook Book in 1872. 

                                            "Fresh, No Bake Blueberry Pie”

Ingredients:
1  9-inch Graham Ready Crust Pie shell 
2 large Bananas
1 jar of Polaner Sugar Free Apricot Preserves
1 to 2 Pints of fresh Blueberries
Home made whipped cream for the top

Directions:
This pie is so delicious and easy; it actually takes about 10 minutes to assemble. Start by cleaning the blueberries, wash and pull off stems and ones that are not good. Put in a bowl and set aside. Now take the Graham Ready Crust Pie shell and take off the cover, as well as pull up the sides of the aluminum a little bit. Take the two bananas and peel, cut into small rounds. Arrange bananas on bottom of Graham cracker crust, in rounds. 

Put the 1 jar of Polaner Sugar Free Apricot Preserves in the bowl with the blueberries, and stir gently not to brake down the berries. After all is mixed together now gently place the blueberries on top of bananas in the pie shell crust. Spread to the ends of the pie crust. Lastly add the home made whipped cream to the top of the pie and cover. (Plastic cover that comes with the crust) Now refrigerate till you are ready to use at least an hour. Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.  

Till Next Time………………………………..................

Copyright © 2015 “Family Plus Food Equals Love” All Rights Reserved

“Braised Spezzatino” For "Wordless Tuesday"

Welcome to “Wordless Tuesday!” Where there is just a mouth watering recipe or two which I know you will enjoy….. 

“Braised Spezzatino”

This is a perfect recipe to make when the weather starts to get cool. I love to have recipes on hand for those chilly nights. It tastes magnificent and makes the house smell great! As far as I am concerned, it is perfect as written. You can serve it with a green salad and a chunk of Italian bread to soak up all the juices. Not only delicious but it makes great leftovers as well! 

Side Salad

Serves: 6-8  
Active Time: 20 minutes
Total Time:  2 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients:
2 lbs stew beef
A little flour to coat the meat
4 Tbsp pure Olive Oil
7 oz diced Mirepoix (**See Notes)
1-1/2 lbs Yellow, Red, or White Potatoes, halved
1 can (28 oz) Italian Crushed Tomatoes w/ Italian Herbs
1 can (28 oz) Italian Coarse Ground Tomatoes
2 Tbsp chopped rosemary leaves
1 cup dry red wine
1 cup Beef Stock
Salt and pepper
1 pkg (16 oz) Frozen Petite Sweet Peas & Pearl Onions, thawed 

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F degrees. Dust beef with flour. Heat oil in large braising pan on Med. Brown beef (1 lb at a time) on all sides, 8-10 min. Transfer to clean platter. Discard all but 1 Tbsp pan drippings. Add Mirepoix & potatoes to pan; cook, stirring, 3-4 min. Add tomatoes & rosemary; cook 2 min. Add wine; cook 3-5 min to reduce by one-third. Add beef stock; season with salt & pepper. Return meat to pan; heat to simmer. Cover; place on center rack of oven. Braise 1 hour, 45 min. Carefully remove lid. Add peas, onions; stir to heat through.

 
**NOTES: A mirepoix is a roughly chopped vegetable cut, usually a mixture of onions, carrots, and celery. Mirepoix, raw, roasted or sautéed with butter or olive oil, is the flavor base for a wide variety of dishes, such as stocks, soups, stews and sauces.

Mirepoix

++++Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Shiraz/Syrah, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, and or Cabernet Franc are perfect pairings as a dry red wine. The reds tend to have dark fruit and very present tannins that are great with beef.  
   (Please Drink Responsibly)     

Dry Red Wine

(I adapted this recipe from Wegmans) 


Till Next Time………………………………...................

Copyright © 2015 “Family Plus Food Equals Love” All Rights Reserved

“Italian Stuffed Peppers” & “Colorful Corn Salad” For Labor Day Weekend

Coming to terms with the end of summer is a rough thought for some people. Were did it all go? Yesterday seems like we were just staring the month of June and here we are starting September already! Parents all over are getting prepared with supplies for their children to start another year of school. Before school begins and we start packing up the beach gear, lawn chairs, pool supplies, plus our grills, we have one more weekend of summer time fun which is called Labor Day! Personally, nothing says Labor Day weekend to me like a family BBQ or cookout. Labor Day is on Monday September 7th this year, and I’m sure we are all looking forward to a long enjoyable weekend as we start the month of September. This weekend celebrates the “unofficial” end of summer. Everyone is going to the beach, having picnics, going to fairs, and enjoying the last weekend of their summer activities.

You may ask, what is Labor Day and why do we celebrate this day? So here are some facts about the holiday. Labor Day is an American Federal Holiday that celebrates the economic and social contributions of workers. We pay tribute to the achievements of the American workers. It is also supposed to be a day of rest and considered a workingman‘s holiday. The first Labor Day was held on September 5th 1882 in New York City. Then on June 28th 1894 it became a Federal holiday, stating that the first Monday in September of each year would be legal holiday in all U.S. territories. Non-essential federal employees and schoolchildren are given the holiday off. There is no delivery of mail, but most businesses choose to stay open for Labor Day. In addition, Labor Day marks a great day for stores to have “End of Summer” sales.

In Italy, many Italians observe Labor Day as well. It is called "La Festa dei Lavoratori." They observe this nationwide holiday on May 1st each year. A holiday that was connected with agricultural cycles and still celebrated in some regions throughout Italy. Farmers and workers traditionally took the day off. They relaxed and had parties with food, drinking, and dancing. This was to show their support for the labor union movement’s social and economic achievements on this day.

So before you bid this summer farewell, go out with a bang on this Labor Day! Whether you are heading out of town, staying in the city, spending the day quietly at home relaxing, or enjoying one final celebration of the summer, be sure to relish the day with your family and friends. Remember, Summer is unofficially over but your memories will last forever!

This week I have two recipes to share with you. I remember a recipe that my mom taught me called “Italian Stuffed Peppers.” They were made by stuffing Cubanelle peppers with a bread crumb filling topped with tomato sauce and baked. Cubanelles are a long slender banana-shaped sweet pepper, also known as Italian frying peppers. You can use this recipe as a side-dish.

The other dish is my rendition of a recipe I found in a magazine which I call “Colorful Corn Salad.” The combination of all the ingredients mixed together is not only colorful but also is harmonious in your mouth. These two recipes will be hits on your Labor Day table as you BBQ, have family gatherings, or even at home relaxing.

                                                 “Italian Stuffed Peppers”
 

Ingredients:
6 Cubanelle peppers, tops & seeds removed
3 cups of your favorite tomato sauce
3 cups unflavored bread crumbs
4 Tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
2 Tsp of minced garlic
1 cup grated cheese (Pecorino Romano)
Salt & pepper to taste
Olive oil

Directions:
Cut 1/2 inch from the top of a washed pepper and remove the seeds. Mix the bread crumbs with parsley, minced garlic, grated cheese, salt & pepper. Add a small amount of oil and mix with hands. When it feels like a sandy consistency then you are ready to fill the peppers. Fill the peppers with mixture (do not fill to tightly as it will become dry) Put about a 1-1/2 cups of tomato sauce on bottom of a baking dish so they will not stick. Place peppers in the baking dish, cover with remaining 1-1/2 cups of tomato sauce and sprinkle a small amount of olive oil on top of the peppers. Bake the peppers at 350° for about 30 minutes. Can also be eaten at room temperature.

                             
                                                   “Colorful Corn Salad” 

Ingredients:
3 cans of sweet corn niblets (water drained)
1 can of black olives (pitted) & chopped
3/4 cup of chopped grape tomatoes
1/2 cup of chopped green pepper
1/2 cup of chopped red pepper
1/4 cup of chopped onion or scallions
1/2 cup of ranch salad dressing or your favorite 

Directions:
In a large salad bowl, combine all vegetable ingredients, and then add the salad dressing. Stir till all coated, cover and refrigerate until serving. Serving is for 8 people or more, depending on how much of the ingredients you use. You can also add another ingredient or take one of them out. Your choice…just enjoy and Mangia Tutti!

Till The Next Time……………………….

Copyright © 2015 “Family Plus Food Equals Love” All Rights Reserved…