Mexican Rice

Not Spanish rice... but Mexican rice, via Eva Longoria. Who knew she could cook?! I bought her cookbook awhile back and so far the things I have tried out of it have been good. This was a good accompanamient to my chicken enchiladas, a classic side. I would prefer a little more fluffy, less sticky, next time. Need to work on that textural aspect! I did leave out the chicken, there was plenty of chicken in my enchiladas that went with this. In my opinion, the best Mexican/Spanish rice is Cuca's in Redlands... preferably the downtown Redlands one. The most light and fluffy. It tastes like the use a peanut oil, maybe we will try that next time.  :-)

Mexican Rice via Eva's Kitchen:

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/recipe?id=13291342

Shepherd's Pie

Shepherd's Pie is a fond memory of my childhood. We used to get giant scoops of it for dinner from the hot deli at Gerrard's Market in Redlands when my Dad would take us grocery shopping with him. It was always so simple, yet hearty and delicious. This time around I tried to convince myself it was healthy and packed full of lean meat and veggies. :-) I did use 96% lean ground beef instead of the lamb. I doubt that made any difference. The end product was a success. I've been eating it for the last 3 days. So satisfying! I also added 1/3 cup grated parmesan to the mashed potatoes & garnished the top of the pie with paprika. (That's how Gerrard's used to do it!) Do a taste test for spices before you assemble the pie. I ended up adding some salt and cayenne. I always add cayenne!

Shepherd's Pie via Epicurious:

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Shepherds-Pie-240224

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.)