Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Baked Artichokes with Gorgonzola and Herbs

We are now approaching my favorite time of year. Artichokes are one of my absolute favorites, I could eat one almost every day. Chris found a new recipe that we are going to try tonight. I can't wait.
Salt
4 artichokes
3 lemons, plus 1 lemon
10 ounces mild Gorgonzola cheese, room temperature
2 tablespoons cream
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley leaves, plus 1 tablespoon
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons bread crumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Trim the artichokes by cutting off the top 1-inch or so. Cut the stem close to the base of the artichoke so the artichoke can sit up straight, and remove some of the bottom leaves. Using kitchen shears, trim the sharp points off of any remaining outer leaves. Add the artichokes to the boiling water. Halve the lemons and squeeze the juice into the boiling water. Toss in the lemons. Cook the artichokes until tender, about 30 minutes. Drain the artichokes and let cool.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl stir together the Gorgonzola, cream, thyme, 2 teaspoons parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. In another small bowl stir together the bread crumbs and remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Remove the center choke of the artichokes using a small spoon. Stuff the cheese mixture into the center of the artichokes. Place the artichokes into a baking dish. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the top of the artichokes. Drizzle the tops of the artichokes with olive oil. Bake until the artichokes are heated through, the cheese is melted, and the bread crumbs are crisp and golden, about 25 minutes. Transfer the artichokes to a serving dish and serve.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Visiting Jennie in Tennessee

I got the chance to go to Tennessee for the first time 2 weeks ago and got back last Wednesday. It amazes me how 8 days goes by so fast.

I flew from PDX to Dallas then from Dallas to Nashville. This was pretty painless but I was tired by the time I got to Nashville and HUNGRY. It is $5 for cheese and crackers on an American Airlines flight. I couldn't believe the day I had been counting down for so long was here. I walked around the corner and YAY I was there and we finally got to hang out. First stop Taco Bell!!!!

We had so much hanging out and catching up. Besides all the catching up we went to dinner for her Birthday and Longhorn Steakhouse and went out for a couple drinks at Old Chicago. The rest of the week we went to Target, Wal-Mart a few times, Nashville, PX, Fort Campbell, The HUT, "The New Big Poke", Rainforest Cafe, watched The Hills and best of all White Castle. I had so much fun and can't wait to go back. Here are a few pictures of our time together and the fun we all 5 had.
Going out to dinner at Longhorn Steakhouse
Liv on our way to Rainforest Cafe
Zander and I after bath time
Crazy Gabs going down the slide
Gabs and I
Jennie, Liv and I on my last night
I LOVE YOU!!!!!
The Balloon that got stuck!!!

Tuesday, April 01, 2008

I'm Leaving On a Jet Plane

I am off to Tennesse to see Jennie. I can't wait to see her and hang out and spend girl time for 8 7 days. I will be there in a few hours!!!

See you soon babe!