Apple & Cheddar Quiche

After realizing that I didn't bring my pie pans with me to San Jose, I tried to save the life of this quiche in a 9 inch round pan. Not a success in the vanity department. The flavor of the quiche was all there but the phyllo just did not hold up to the density of the quiche contents. Next time I would probably make this with a regular pie crust. I did use an applewood smoked bacon and an aged sharp cheddar. Those both worked nicely with the other flavors. Don't eat this hot right out of the oven. It's much better luke warm after it has been sitting for awhile.

Apple & Cheddar Quiche via Closet Cooking:

http://www.closetcooking.com/2010/12/apple-and-cheddar-quiche.html

Bacon Fat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Don't judge! Open your food mind! Another effort into my quest for the perfect salty-sweet! I made these for Superbowl and they were quite the hit. The bag of cookies got passed all around the bar. I think I've decided I'm going to attach a business card of this blog to treat bags with my baked goods. *Shameless self-promotion.* These were equally as good as the Maple Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies I had previously made... but these had an added texture and heartiness due to the addition of the oatmeal. Take your pick. Salty/Sweet for the win!

Bacon Fat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies via Jules Food:

http://julesfood.blogspot.com/2011/01/another-great-oatmeal-cookie-made-with.html

Old School Pea Salad

Sometimes you just get those funny cravings that have to be fulfilled: enter PEA SALAD! I've had pea salad on my mind for weeks. I finally decided to give in today. Pea salad is like one of those quirky, old school-type dishes that you might find at a church potluck next to the shredded, carrot-filled jell-o ring. Nonetheless, there is no denying the almighty pea salad. EAT YOUR PEAS!

Old School Pea Salad adapted (& slimmed down) via Natalie's Killer Cuisine:

1 lb. fresh of frozen peas

1/2 red onion, finely diced

1 cup cubed cheddar

4 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled

1/3 cup fat free mayo

1/3 cup fat free sour cream

Pinch cayenne

Salt & Pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients & enjoy. (About 10 side serving portions.)

Maple Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies

Can I just start by saying these are the best chocolate chip cookies EVER?! Some of you may be turned off by the thought of bacon in your cookie... well, more for me! I've always been a fan of the sweet & salty sensation. Courtney & I made these a few weeks ago to accompany us on our road trip to the USC vs. Oregon football game. Yes we lost. I don't want to hear it! The only reason I won't be making these again any time soon is because I literally could not stop eating these. I usually have much better self control, especially with cookies... but I just couldn't contain myself with these bad boys. ENJOY!

Maple Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies via Noble Pig:

http://noblepig.com/2009/12/15/maple-bacon-chocolate-chip-cookies.aspx