Winstead Wandering

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Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Egg Rolls with Spicy Cranberry Dipping Sauce

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #HonestSimpleTurkey #CollectiveBias

Got holiday leftovers? Don’t settle for boring sandwiches or soup. Spice things up with leftover Thanksgiving turkey egg rolls with spicy cranberry dipping sauce.

Got holiday leftovers? Don't settle for boring sandwiches or soup. Spice things up with leftover Thanksgiving turkey egg rolls with spicy cranberry dipping sauce.

One of my most cherished holiday memories is of my mom’s constant quest to use every last scrap of leftover turkey. She seems to consider it her personal mission to make sure it all gets used, and not just in boring recipes like sandwiches and soup. No, my mom makes outside-the-box delights like these leftover Thanksgiving turkey egg rolls with spicy cranberry dipping sauce.

Most of my best memories center- like a lot of people’s, I’m sure- around food. I guess that’s part of why I enjoy sharing recipes, both cherished favorites and new possibilities, with the people I love. I have so many memories of my mom bustling around the kitchen on holidays. I hope to create those same special moments with my own kids.

Got holiday leftovers? Don't settle for boring sandwiches or soup. Spice things up with leftover Thanksgiving turkey egg rolls with spicy cranberry dipping sauce.

My favorite thing about these egg rolls- aside from how insanely tasty they are- is that they call for more leftovers than just turkey. You can use extra raw veggies, like carrots and celery, in the egg rolls themselves. The sauce is perfect for extra cranberry sauce- does anyone actually use the whole can?- and cream cheese leftover from pie-making.

These egg rolls are the perfect recipe for budget-conscious cooks who want to get their money’s worth out of their holiday meal, for those who can’t stand the thought of letting leftovers go to waste, or for anyone who needs an easy, mouthwatering recipe to make while enjoying the holiday weekend.

Got holiday leftovers? Don't settle for boring sandwiches or soup. Spice things up with leftover Thanksgiving turkey egg rolls with spicy cranberry dipping sauce.

This recipe is best if you start with a delicious bird. For me, a turkey-cooking novice, that means using Honeysuckle Fresh Turkey. It comes already brined, so I all had to do to get a flavorful, crispy-skinned bird was add a little chicken stock to my makeshift roasting pan, bake the turkey at 350 degrees for about 13 minutes per pound, baste it a few times, and wait for the thermometer to pop up (your turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees). As intimidated as I was by the thought of cooking my own turkey, the process was super easy.

Whether you’re an old pro or an amateur like me, you can happy knowing you’re using an animal raised by an Independent Family Farmer who meets high standards. Now through November 21, Kroger has an in-store coupon that’ll save you $2.50 on a Fresh Honeysuckle White Whole Turkey. In certain areas, they also have a $2.00 off coupon running through the end of the year for the same product.

Got holiday leftovers? Don't settle for boring sandwiches or soup. Spice things up with leftover Thanksgiving turkey egg rolls with spicy cranberry dipping sauce.

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Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Sausages

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These brown sugar bacon-wrapped sausages are seriously like crack. They’re sweet, savory, addictive, and perfect for any party you’re having.

These brown sugar bacon-wrapped sausages are seriously like crack. They're sweet, savory, addictive, and perfect for any party you're having.

There are some big changes afoot in the Winstead household. While I typically try to avoid vague statements (like the one I just made) without further explanation, I’m too excited about what’s happening to not say something. I’m excited, nervous, hopeful, and anxious all at once, and I’ll be sharing more details in coming weeks.

In a season of life when there are still so many unknowns, it occurs to me that I have so much to be thankful for. In addition to the obvious, like the health of my family and a beautiful home to live in, I’m so thankful for answered prayers and peace of mind amidst uncertain circumstances. During a time when so much of the future is up in the air, I’m thankful for confidence that God’s timing is perfect.

Things might be looking different around the Winstead house soon, but some things never change. One thing that will always remain the same is my love for cute little bite-size appetizers, particularly those that include bacon-wrapped anything. These brown sugar bacon sausages are a recipe my mother-in-law has made for a few years. They’re a huge hit with anyone who tries them, and with good reason.

The sausages themselves aren’t anything special. They’re the kind often served smothered with barbecue sauce at parties. The bacon is where the beauty begins. The strips are the same width as the length of the sausages, making them a perfect pairing. When the dish bakes, the brown sugar on top gets sticky and caramel-y. The result is a perfectly sweet and savory bite that’ll be a hit at any holiday or game day event.

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Greek Panzanella

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Colorful fresh veggies, tossed with vinaigrette and crispy homemade croutons, make this warm and hearty Greek Panzanella the perfect appetizer, salad, or meal.

Colorful fresh veggies, tossed with vinaigrette and crispy homemade croutons, make this warm and hearty Greek Panzanella the perfect appetizer, salad, or meal.

As much as I love cooking now, I didn’t do much of it when I was growing up. It wasn’t until I moved away to college that I began to appreciate the quality of cooking I grew up with, both from mom and from my stepmom. There’s nothing like bland cafeteria food to open your eyes to how good you had things.

I spent much of that first summer break trying new recipes, and this Greek Panzanella was one of them. It was  so easy to throw together, even with my amateur cook status. Now, years later, it’s still a favorite. The recipe is the perfect fun alternative to the typical veggies and dip found at so many showers and parties.

Colorful fresh veggies, tossed with vinaigrette and crispy homemade croutons, make this warm and hearty Greek Panzanella the perfect appetizer, salad, or meal.

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Green Chile White Queso Dip

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and The Coca-Cola Company. All opinions are mine alone. #GameTimeHosting  #CollectiveBias

It isn’t game day without a big bowl of this quick and easy, perfectly spicy, melted cheese goodness known as green chile white queso dip.

It isn't game day without a big bowl of this quick and easy, perfectly spicy, melted cheese goodness known as green chile white queso dip.

School is officially back in session for a lot of the country, including us Mississippians. As a teacher, there’s pretty much only one thing that makes me eager to leave behind lazy summer days in favor of going back to work: The allure of fall. It’s right around the corner and, were it not for the oppressive humidity that’s a mainstay in The South this time of year, I’d probably be able to feel it.

It isn't game day without a big bowl of this quick and easy, perfectly spicy, melted cheese goodness known as green chile white queso dip.

In addition to cooler fall temperatures, I’m looking forward to cozy sweatshirts, all things pumpkin, and, most of all, football season.

We’re just about as stereotypical as you might imagine football fans in The South to be. I can just about guarantee we’ll be cheering on our team in person if they’re playing at home, and we catch most every away game on TV. It isn’t just the game itself that’s important, though; it’s the whole ritual of gathering with family and grazing on favorite foods throughout the day.

It isn't game day without a big bowl of this quick and easy, perfectly spicy, melted cheese goodness known as green chile white queso dip.

Because you can’t really have a game day celebration without a dip or three, I made this green chile white queso dip. It’s quick to prepare and is basically a block of shredded white cheddar cheese with a few additional ingredients to make it a smooth, flavorful dip. This cheese dip is best enjoyed right after it’s made, so I love to pair it with some easy make-ahead options, like baked chicken taquitos, double chocolate brownies, or spinach and artichoke dip.

While I was at Family Dollar grabbing some game day staples, like Coca-Cola™, I found Wise Nacho Cheese Tortilla chips that ended up being so good dipped in this queso. Like, insanely good. [Read more…]

Fresh Salmon Cakes with Balsamic Sauce

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This easy and delectable recipe combines fresh fish with a few simple ingredients to make salmon cakes with balsamic sauce.

This easy and delectable recipe combines fresh fish with a few simple ingredients to make salmon cakes with balsamic sauce.

From the moment I knew we’d be visiting my home state of Oregon during salmon season, I had my heart- and my taste buds- set on enjoying all kinds of fresh salmon awesomeness. My mom lives right on the Santiam River, which can be prime salmon-catching waters. I spent several weeks dreaming of the goodness we could cook up with fresh-caught fish.

My mom suggested making salmon cakes with balsamic sauce. I don’t have much experience preparing fresh fish, but I do have plenty of experience eating a variety of fish and seafood cakes, and I love balsamic vinegar. I immediately knew she had to make the recipe and I had to share it here.
This easy and delectable recipe combines fresh fish with a few simple ingredients to make salmon cakes with balsamic sauce.

My mom is a phenomenal cook; I never doubted these salmon cakes would be anything but extraordinary. The recipe is fairly simple and can be easily adapted to be gluten-free. Basically, she begins by poaching the salmon and mixing up the easy three ingredient sauce. She usually uses red wine vinegar instead of balsamic, but I love balsamic and this is my blog, so we’re going with it.

No spices or seasonings are added to the breadcrumbs; they really aren’t necessary because the fresh salmon is the star. You could go crazy and add garlic, diced onion, or the fresh herbs of your choice, but these salmon cakes really are perfect just the way they are.

We enjoyed the salmon cakes plain with the sauce for dipping. The salmon cakes would make great sliders, though; my mom suggests tossing chopped cabbage with the balsamic sauce to serve on top. You could also make the cakes smaller- bite-sized- if serving at a party.

This easy and delectable recipe combines fresh fish with a few simple ingredients to make salmon cakes with balsamic sauce.

[Read more…]

Easy Game Day Recipes

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These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they’re quick and simple to prepare.

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Y’all, the Super Bowl is in just a few days! While I’m a pretty big football fan, I’m most excited about what everyone is most excited about come Super Bowl Sunday: the commercials and the food. I can snack with the best of them, and I’ve posted plenty of recipes to prove that. Today, for the benefit of you and the guests at your Super Bowl party, I’m sharing my favorites in one mouthwatering post.

Easy Game Day Recipes

Baked Onion Rings

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

You’d never guess these crispy, crunchy onion rings aren’t fried.

Quick & Easy Fresh Salsa

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Step up your chips and dip game with this super simple fresh salsa.

Homemade Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

If you’re one of those party hosts- the ones that serve veggies- you owe it to your guests to serve this ranch, too.

Potato Nachos

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Potato rounds topped with cheese, bacon, and the toppings of your choice.

Hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

This mouthwatering twist on a tired classic will be a hit with your party-goers.

Mexican Cornbread

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Does your game day menu include chili? This cornbread is the perfect complement.

Southern Pimento Cheese

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

This classic dip is made with freshly-grated sharp cheddar cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise, and more. It’s great as a dip for chips or vegetables, but it’s also phenomenal served in:

Twice-Baked Pimento Cheese Potatoes

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Potato skins are so 2009. These adorable twice-baked potato cups are sophisticated yet easy.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

You’re bound to have a few health nuts around for game day, or at least a few people who just love the taste of hummus and enjoy pretending they’re all about its healthfulness.

Bacon Cheddar Ranch Chicken Roll-Ups

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

These little rolls combine the convenience of bite-size food with the protein of a full meal. Bonus: you can make them ahead and freeze them.

Cinnamon Roll Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

When it comes to easy desserts, it doesn’t get much easier than anything in bar form. When it comes to delicious, it doesn’t get much better than these.

Monster Cookies

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

You can’t go wrong with cookies, and you really can’t go wrong with cookies stuffed with M&Ms, oatmeal, peanut butter, and chocolate chips.

Peanut Butter Cup Bars

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

A no-bake recipe that will have party-goers licking their fingers and begging for the recipe.

Double Chocolate Brownies

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Why make regular brownies when you can make this double chocolate version?

Salted Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

These cookies scream sophistication. How easy they really are will be our little secret.

Lemon Dream Bars

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Convert chocoholics with these rich and creamy lemon dream bars.

Better For You Triple Chocolate Banana Bread

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Great-tasting and better-for-you are not mutually exclusive terms when it comes to dessert. This banana bread is exhibit A.

Mud Hen Bars

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Don’t let the brown sugar meringue fool you: mud hen bars are ready faster than you can whip up a batch of cookies.

Maple-Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Your guests will be too wowed by the unexpectedly delightful maple frosting to think about how easy these bars were to make.

What are your favorite easy game day recipes?

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These easy game day recipes are diverse enough to please any palate, but they all have on thing in common: they're quick and simple to prepare.

Potato Nachos

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Potato nachos are just as awesome as they sound: thinly-sliced potatoes are cooked until tender, topped with bacon and cheese, and baked until hot and melted. Perfect game day or any day.

Potato nachos are just as awesome as they sound: thinly-sliced potatoes are cooked until tender, topped with bacon and cheese, and baked until hot and melted.

 

This recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious. You start with large baking potatoes and slice them pretty thinly. You boil them, to allow them to cook through quickly. You know, so you can get to the good stuff.

After boiling, draining, and drying your potato slices, it’s just a matter of adding whatever toppings your heart desires- I usually do cheese, bacon, and jalapeños- and sticking the whole affair in the oven to get cozy.

Potato nachos are a pretty dangerous dish, in my opinion. Back in the day, I was a stay-at-home mom. It was a small block of time, sandwiched between my days as a banker and my current career as a teacher. During that time, I wasn’t limited to a 25 minute lunch break the way I am now. I had all of nap time to dream up and prepare recipes.

We almost always have potatoes around, and I love them in any form. I especially love a good oven-baked potato with crispy skin and plenty of butter and salt. Waiting an hour or more for a potato to bake in the oven didn’t interest me, though, so I made a couple of changes to speed things up and this recipe was born.

I used to make it for lunch, but it would be a perfect game day snack or appetizer, or a side for just about any dinner you make. Potato nachos are easy, they come together quickly, and they’re easily changed to fit the preferences of several different people. It would be no problem at all to allow your family members or your guests to customize their own portions. Include toppings like shredded chicken, onions, or fresh salsa and you can call it a meal.

Potato nachos are just as awesome as they sound: thinly-sliced potatoes are cooked until tender, topped with bacon and cheese, and baked until hot and melted. Perfect game day or any day.

 

[Read more…]

Spinach and Artichoke Hot Dip

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This is not your average dip. Served warm and beefed up with artichoke hearts, garlic, and the beautiful saltiness of Parmesan cheese, this spinach and artichoke hot dip is hearty enough to be a meal. That’s a good thing, because you won’t want to stop eating it.

This is not your average dip. Served warm and beefed up with artichoke hearts, garlic, and the beautiful saltiness of Parmesan cheese, this spinach and artichoke hot dip is hearty enough to be a meal. That's a good thing, because you won't want to stop eating it.

Late October/early November is shaping up to be a sports lover’s dream. It seems like there’s some sporting event or another on TV just about every night of the week. We’re big Mississippi State fans in my house (#HailState), but we’ve usually got one game or another going on Saturdays.

This spinach and artichoke hot dip is the perfect companion for game day. It’s super easy to prepare, and it’s served warm, a nice departure from other dips. The dip is hearty and packed with flavorful ingredients like garlic, Rotel tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. The whole thing gets melted in the oven, resulting in a gooey appetizer that’s filling enough to double as a meal.

My mother-in-law threw this together several weeks back while my sister-in-law and I were doing some freezer cooking. It was beautiful when it came out of the oven, with its golden bread crumb topping and flavor-packed creaminess. It didn’t matter that spinach and artichokes aren’t usually my thing. It turns out I’ll eat pretty much any vegetable, given that it’s bathed in some form of cheese and flavored with garlic.

We couldn’t stop sampling this dip as we cooked. When they left- and took the dish of dip with them- I saved myself a generous portion and proceeded to eat nearly the entire thing for lunch. I feel no shame about it because 1. Spinach and 2. It was so freaking good.

This is not your average dip. Served warm and beefed up with artichoke hearts, garlic, and the beautiful saltiness of Parmesan cheese, this spinach and artichoke hot dip is hearty enough to be a meal. That's a good thing, because you won't want to stop eating it.

[Read more…]

Baked Onion Rings

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It seems too good to be true, but it isn’t. Baked onion rings are just as crunchy, just as flavorful, and just as craving-inducing as the restaurant kind. The only thing missing is the guilt.

It seems too good to be true, but it isn't. Baked onion rings are just as crunchy, just as flavorful, and just as craving-inducing as the restaurant kind. The only thing missing is the guilt.

This recipe sat in my mental “to make” file for far too long. I love onion rings- I love any kind of onion dish, really- but I just couldn’t imagine the baked version living up to the fried goodness I’m accustomed to. I finally gave in and tried the recipe because I knew it would be worth it if the recipe was even half as good as the “real” thing.

In reality, these baked onion rings were so much better than I expected them to be. The bread crumb coating crisped up to a beautiful crunchy bite. The onion on the inside was tender, but not overcooked. The Créole seasoning- because you can’t go wrong with Tony’s- lends just the right amount of zing.

I know this next part is going to sound like an exaggeration, but I swear it’s not. I think these baked onion rings might beat the fried version for me. I know, I know, big talk. But hear me out.

First, it’s tough to find a restaurant that does onion rings well. Most fast food restaurants just can’t hack it. Second, even decent restaurant onion rings tend to leave your mouth feeling coated in oil. It’s not pleasant. Lastly, let’s not forget the part where, inevitably, the hot onion slides out of its breading tunnel and slaps against your chin. That’s my favorite.

The only thing missing was a great sauce. Ketchup got the job done, but I kept wishing for some homemade ranch or a little comeback sauce.

[Read more…]