Simple Way to Keep Boxed Mixed Greens Fresh

 I quite like getting the boxed mixed greens, as it is fast and simple way to make a salad, BUT I have also noticed that it can go limp and mushy quite quickly, and I have found the easy way to fix this.

This also works for bagged lettuce if you purchase it that way.  

Below are a couple of great ways to keep those lettuce leaves fresh and stop the waste.

Food is too expensive, so the less you throw out the better.

Boxed Mixed Greens

Step 1 - Open the plastic container as soon as you get it home.

Step 2 -  Place a clean folded paper towel (folded lengthwise) gently on top of the greens.

Step 3 - Close the lid and store it upside down in the refrigerator.

This allows any moisture that may be present to be absorbed into the paper towel.  Replace as needed.

I was amazed at just how well this worked.   Storing upside down is key for this to work, which places the paper towel at the bottom.

Prepared Green Salad Leftovers

Here is another tidbit I learned years ago from my gran.

If you are creating a large green salad for you family or guests, then place a small bowl upside down in the bottom of the salad bowl before adding your washed ingredients

This allows any of the moisture to trickle down under the small bowl in the bottom and collect, which will keep you salad fresh even the next day in the refrigerator. 

Hope this was helpful.  I despise throwing out food, so I found this trick works well.  You can also transplant your greens to special containers that will keep it fresh longer.  Check them out below.

How to Clean a French Press

 I love a French Press, because it seems more convenient to me that using a coffee maker.  I also need to drink decaf (I know hiss boo!) so by having two French Press's I can make both quickly.

But cleaning them out can be a bit of a pain, especially when the grounds harden.

Here is a quick way to do this.

Step 1 - Fill your press halfway with water to rehydrate the grounds.

Step 2 - Place a paper towel in the drain of the sink 

Step 3 - Gently pour the coffee grounds/water over the paper towel.

This collects the grounds and stops them from going down the sink

NOTE:  Don't pour grounds down the sink as they will eventually create a plug up in the drain as they don't dissolve like bits of food do.

Take the paper towel of grounds and place in your green compositing bin, or your backyard composting bin or throw in the garbage.

Step 4 - Place a few drops of mild dish soap into your press.

Step 5 - Fill half way with warm water

Step 6 - Take the plunger part of the press and simply go up and down into the glass container.  The soap will not only clean the glass but also the plunger, as coffee oils do build up.

Step 7 - Dump the water.

Step 8 - If stains remain, use a micro fiber cloth to gently rub the sides of the glass.

You are done!

It is best if you can do this after each use, as the oils from the coffee will tend to build up on the glass and the plunger making your coffee taste a bitter.

Invest in a Couple of French Press's

This way you can have one on the go while the other is set aside for cleaning!  Or like me, one ready for decaf, so I can enjoy coffee too!

I love the french press, it is a quick way to make good tasting coffee!

How to Steam Clean an Oven

 I must admit, I am not the best at cleaning up spills in my oven.  I have set the smoke detector off a few times, with something gross baking itself in the bottom of the oven.

I have also moved into a rental apartment that was nice and clean except the oven.  So I am not big on harsh chemicals and having to wear elbow length rubber gloves, so I came across this simple trick to "steam clean" your oven so that crud pretty much rubs away.

How to Steam Clean an Oven

What you will need to do:

Large Oven Prove casserole dish or pan that can withstand 450 degrees F.

Fill 3/4 full with warm water (you can also add a few slices of lemon to the water for a nice smell)

Turn your oven to 450 degrees 

Place the pot in the center of the oven

Leave for 30-60 minutes (depending on how bad your oven is!)

Turn off oven and let cool but still slightly warm

Remove the pot and the racks

Take a sponge and wipe as much away as you can.

If stubborn spills remain, then mix a little baking soda with water to create a paste and scrub them.

If you don't have that kind of time... or would prefer a spray product, I have also found many organic oven cleaners online below:

Not a Fan of the Self Cleaning Ovens!

I find their seriously high heat disturbing, and if the oven is dirty you will get the oven smoking as it burns off spills, next thing is the smoke detector, and if you are in an apartment this can be scary for neighbours.  

Try this steaming idea first.  If there are many layers of crud, maybe you do this a layer at a time, but worth the trouble.

Hope everyone has a nice day today!

How to Make Five Minute Fudge in the Microwave

 Calling all CHOCOHOLICS!!  Throw out the Diets and Make Winter Tolerable!

If you love homemade chocolate fudge and are having a hankering for some but don't want all the fuss of doing it on the stove or in the oven, then check out this recipe for the microwave.  As long as you have a few key ingredients in the house you are set!!

What you will Need:

• 2 x tablespoons butter 
• 2 x cups of semi sweet chocolate chips (go for a good name brand for best results)
• 1 x 11.5 ounce (package) of good quality milk chocolate chips
• 1 x can of sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
• 1 x teaspoon vanilla extract
• 9 inch square pan
• some tin foil to line the pan
• microwave proof bowl
• spatula, spoon or whatever you got!

Method:

Step 1 - line the square pan with the foil (no this doesn't go in the microwave it is for after, but you can also use waxed paper if you have it on hand)

Step 2 - Melt one tablespoon of the butter and brush with a pastry brush or use your clean fingers to spread it all over the foil and up the sides.  This will make it easier to remove the fudge after cooling.

Step 3 - In your large bowl put the chocolate chips together and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and put in microwave for a minute at a time, then take out and stir.  Keep going until all the chocolate is melted. You don't want to burn it, so a minute at a time and a stir works.

Try not to do a faceplant into the chocolate at this point as it will smell awesome!!

Step 4 - Once the chocolate is melted and hot, stir in the can of sweetened condensed milk and the vanilla extract.

Step 5 - Pour into your prepared foil lined pan and if you want to.. you can add some toppings at this point such as nuts, but optional.

*Lick the bowl for your reward after*

Step 6 - Refrigerate until solid

Step 7 - Slice and enjoy!

If you have any left!!  Use a tightly sealed plastic storage container and keep in the refrigerator for next chocolate attack!!

If you love fudge, then try to keep these ingredients on hand for a quick dessert, or simply for yourself! You can get supplies online if you can't get out to the grocery store.

Once you have mastered the microwave fudge, you can dress it up if you wish by adding other ingredients on top or a few right into the melted chocolate. Experiment and have fun with this simple recipe.  Add melted marsh mellows on top, mixed nuts, or peanuts right into the recipe..  

Experiment and have fun.

How to Make the Best Scrambled Eggs

 I love eggs, but was getting bored of using the same ingredients, when I came across this different way to make scrambled eggs, I was hooked!!

Normally you whisk eggs with some milk/cream and seasonings right?

Check this out, give it a try next time to add some awesome flavor and fluffiness!

What you will Need:

• Eggs
• seasonings
• bit of butter (for pan)
• full fat sour cream (approx 1 small dollop for each egg or equal to milk you usually use)

Method:

Step 1 - Whisk the eggs in a bowl (however many you want for your meal)

Step 2 - Whisk in seasonings

Step 3 - Whisk in a small dollop of sour cream for each egg

Step 4 - Melt the butter in the pan

Step 5 - Scramble your eggs as per usual.

The sour cream, especially the full fat sour cream adds a nice tangy creamy taste to the eggs and also seems to make them fluffier.

Yes, I know it the New Year and all kinds of diets are at the top of the list, but let yourself have this treat!  The sour cream along with the protein in the eggs will keep you full for a lot longer, and you will seriously enjoy the taste.

I love eggs but was getting bored of my usual recipes, so I came across this swapping of the milk for the sour cream and thought ... why not give it a go?  

Just thought I would share!

Enjoy!

How to Clean a Black Glass Stove Top

 My landlord decided it was time to replace the old stove in the kitchen, and last week a brand new black glass stove top stove showed up and was installed.  Awesome!!  

So what do I instantly do???  

Spill tomato soup onto the top and it bakes in from the heat.  I know you CAN'T use glass cleaner or anything abrasive, but the dish cloth simply was not enough.

I researched ways to do this with homemade cleaner and also researched commercial cleaners and I found the best solution for me.  It all depends on what type of crusty stain you have on your glass stove top, this decides the best way to clean it.

Homemade version:

Equal parts warm water and white vinegar.

Spray on cold stove top and then wipe clean with soft cloth.

This works on smudges and other lightweight staining, but it didn't work on my tomato soup crusty spill.

I tried the expensive cream cleaner that came as a sample with the stove and guess what??  

It didn't work ether and they are expensive!!.

FOR THE NASTY CRUSTY SPILLS...

After much experimenting, researching and a few bucks less in my pocket, I found the perfect product.  

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Original Cleaning Pads with Durafoam, White, 6 Count 

  

Unbelievable!!! and no scratching

It is affordable and can be reused over and over again.

Took it off right away, and no scratches.  I had never used this product before, so I purchased the basic one (you can get them for specific jobs such as bathrooms etc)  I purchased the general one.

You simply rinse it under some warm water and squeeze out the excess and it rubbed off the tomato soup crusty stain like it was nothing!

I was seriously impressed.

I know I try to lean towards homemade cleaners and ideas on this blog, but in this case my messy cooking practices beat the homemade cleaners.

The Homemade Recipe Cleaner is perfect for day to day, but if you need to get out the "big guns"  like I did, then this is one of the most affordable cleaners to keep in your house.

I think it is the type of material that actually takes the stain off, but however it works, this is now my "go to" for glass top spills.

How to Make Poached Eggs

 I love poached eggs, always have, but when I make them, they look like a sloppy mess as the egg whites go everywhere in the water. 

I have tried all kinds of ways, some people like to have the water moving and others not.  But I am here to say that I finally found what works for me and they actually look restaurant worthy!!

Step 1:  Use a non stick pot  (the best advice)

Step 2:  Fill with a couple of inches of water and add a tiny slosh of white vinegar (helps hold things together)

Step 3:  Heat the water without boiling it. (that might be the trickiest part getting to know the stove) You don't want any movement in the water.

Step 4:  Gently crack the eggs and just at the surface let them quietly slip into the water.  Don't drop them from a distance or they will go everywhere!

Step 5:  Let them stay settled in the bottom of the pot for at least 3 minutes (or more depending on the hardness of yolk you like)

Step 6:  With a non stick slotted spoon gently scoop up the egg and drain on the spoon.

 That is it!!!

I was seriously amazed at how well this worked, and how much of the egg I actually got to see!

You can also invest in egg poachers if you prefer or don't have a non stick pot.  

If you love your eggs, and have stayed away from poached because they are finicky ... give this way a try. For some reason I thought the water had to be moving, but for this process, the stiller the better!

Invest in a Decent Egg Timer

I hope you all try this healthier way to eat eggs. 

 Change up those boiled ones and give poached a try and put them on top of whole grain toast and you have a complete meal! You can also grate a little cheese on top for added flavor.  ENJOY!

How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies Fast

 I love my fruit and I like to keep it at room temperature, so of course, this tends to invite the dreaded fruit flies!  Especially late summer.

There are all kinds of things you can buy, but personally the best and easiest way for me was these two steps.

Step 1 - Apple cider vinegar with a couple drops of dish soap in a little dish on your counter or near where the fruit is living. 

Step 2 - I purchased mesh picnic covers that are kind of cute and cover the fruit bowl.

By doing both of these steps I have completely got rid of those nasty little flies.

You can purchase all kinds of traps, but I found using these 2 steps, they are completely gone. 

 If you don't have any apple cider vinegar, regular white vinegar will work too. I find the smell of the apple cider vinegar actually refreshing in my kitchen. 

 I change out this little dish every few days and they simply disappeared. You don't need a huge dish, just a little candy dish type thing.  

I found using the picnic mesh food covers worked well for the stubborn ones that still give it a try to get to the bananas!

Get Rid of Other Attractions

 I find once the little buggers have got into your kitchen they start looking for other spots such as garbage, or dishes in the sink especially.  

Keep on top of dishes or at least get them into the dishwasher or rinse any food residue off them if they must remain in the sink.

But between the mesh covers and the vinegar dish, you will find them gone.

How to Make Brewed Coffee Less Bitter

 If you love brewed filtered coffee, but some brands just seem to have a bitter taste?  Try this old fashioned trick to mellow out that brew and start your morning off right.

This life hack will even take that pound of coffee you got on sale and turn it into a decent cup of joe!!

What you will Need:

Egg shells

Vinegar

Coffee Maker (type that uses paper filters)

ground coffee

water

Method:

After your next batch of eggs, don't throw out those shells.  

Step 1:  Take the egg shells and place in a bowl of water with some added vinegar and give them a little wash and then rinse.

Step 2:  Place on a paper towel to dry.

Step 3:  Prep your coffee maker as per usual with filter, water and coffee grounds.

Step 4:  Crush the dried egg shells of one or two eggs and place on top of the ground coffee.

Step 5:  ENJOY!

The eggshells are alkaline which neutralizes some of the coffee acidity that tends to make it bitter.

This way you can purchase some of the cheaper brands and still enjoy a mellow cup of coffee to start off your day right!

Maybe it is time for a new coffee maker?  Especially if the water runs through yours very slowly.

You can get all kinds of models online. Some will help to make your coffee taste much better. But if you can't swing a new one right now, keep and wash those egg shells!!

How to Make Awesome Vanilla Cupcakes From Scratch

 With the pandemic still around us, snuggling at home can be the perfect time to bake.  Put on your chef hat and instead of a mix, try these vanilla cupcakes from scratch using actual vanilla beans which you can get online believe it or not!

Supplies for cupcakes:

3/4 cup of softened butter

1-1/4 cups of regular white sugar

2 large eggs (best if at room temperature)

2 vanilla beans (you must use real vanilla beans not extract for this to be super awesome!)

2 cups of flour (cake flour is best)

2 teaspoons baking powder

dash of salt

2/3 cup of milk

cupcake pan

Method:

Step 1 - Cream together the butter and the sugar until fluffy. Then beat in the eggs, do this one egg at a time for best results.  Remember you are not in a hurry, enjoy the process as well as the eating!

Step 2 - Spend a bit of time with the vanilla beans!  Take a sharp knife and slit the bean casing down the center, and then scrape out the seeds etc from the center.  The center is the stuff you want, and place right into your batter mixture.

Step 3 - Dry Ingredients.  In a separate bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt.

Step 4 - Add this flour mixture to the batter you have, a bit at a time as well as the milk a bit at a time and stirring in between until your batter is nice and smooth.

Step 5 - Fill Your Muffin Tins! - Fill them about 2/3 full with a spoon or a scoop.  Lining the muffing tins is the best way, so no greasing needed.

Step 6 - Bake for approximately 20 minutes.  Keep an eye on them as they can burn easily.  Use the toothpick method or a knife to insert in center and see if done.  Nothing should come out on the toothpick or knife other than a few dry crumbs.  Let Cool.

Vanilla Cream Cheese Icing - What You Will Need:

1 pkg of plain cream cheese (not the low fat for this one, full fat is best)

6 tablespoons of softened butter

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3 cups icing sugar

Method:

Step 1 - Blend the cream cheese and the softened butter and vanilla and then slowly add the icing sugar.

Use a pasty bag to ice the cupcakes if you have it, but if you don't you can simply spread it on with a butter knife, you fill a sandwich baggie with icing and cut the bottom corner so you can now pipe it onto the cooled cupcakes.

NOTE:  Make sure the cupcakes are totally cooled or the icing will simply melt.

I also find these cupcakes taste awesome without the icing, but that is me!

Freezing

You can freeze these cupcakes NOT iced, so you can pull some out on a rainy day for some fun.

Vanilla Bean Shells

Don't throw away those vanilla bean casings, boil them on the stove to make your house smell wonderful!

Using a cooking scoop can make filling the cupcake pans consistent and quick.

How to Make the Best Grilled Cheese Sandwich - One Secret Ingredient

 I love grilled cheese, but I could never quite get the outside of the sandwich crispy without burning it or drying it out.

I finally found the secret ingredient to the perfect grilled cheese sandwich from a cook friend of mine!

Get ready for it.....

MAYONNAISE!!!!

How to Make Restaurant Style Grilled Cheese

If you want mouth watering comfort food this fall and winter, check this out.

What You Will Need:

2 x sliced of your favourite bread

Your best cheddar or cheese of your choice

Butter

Mayonnaise

Method:

Butter your bread on the inside

Add the cheese between the bread

Spread mayonnaise on outside of sandwich (both sides)

Fry in lightly buttered frying pan

or... use a sandwich griddle (you can get these on Amazon below)

I find a small non stick frying pan works well too, but if you are a grilled sandwich lover, then using the proper griddle will give you those cute lines on the bread.

Experiment with different breads and cheeses, but try using the mayonnaise on the outside of the bread and fry.

This will give it that awesome crispy taste you get in the restaurants.

So what are you having for lunch today???

I think I will have grilled cheese!!

How to Freeze Fresh Tomatoes Fast No Boiling

If you are seeing a bumper crop of tomatoes this year, then storing them can become a challenge!

Fresh eating tomatoes fresh from the garden are awesome! 

Keep the ones you want to eat fresh on the counter out of the sun for a few days.  The refrigerator zaps all the flavor out so don't put them in there!

But what if you have a bumper crop?

If you visioned days of blanching, canning etc, no need!

You can create fresh bags of frozen tomatoes fast and they are perfect for stews, sauces, stir fries (my favorite use!) and more.

Step 1 - Make sure they are washed, clean and dry

Step 2 - Inspect for any damage or bruises.

Step 3 - Core the top out and cut out any damage.

It is worth investing in a tomato corer tool.  It makes life much easier and wastes less flesh than a knife.  You can get them on Amazon below:

Having this tool makes life much easier!

Step 4 - Start dicing into manageable sizes.  You can freeze tomatoes whole, but I personally prefer to have them diced as she does in the video.  It makes it easier for use in stews and stir fries if they are already diced or chopped.

Step 5 - Place in a labeled freezer bag.  Squeeze as much air out as you can.

THAT IS IT!!

I always saw my gran blanche and can tomatoes but you don't have to!  This works well for any cooking dish you are making. 

Plus they don't take long to thaw.  I used to just dump a bag into my crock pot with a roast right from the freezer.  It is nice to be eating your own fresh veg even into the winter.

ENJOY!  the fruits of your labor into the winter months.

How to Hard Boil Farm Fresh Eggs - Easy Peel!

If you have ever tried to hard boil farm fresh eggs, then you will remember the frustration and damage you do to those eggs trying to peel them. 

You end up losing parts of the egg and need a dozen to end up with 8! 

As much as we all love fresh eggs, this is the one downfall if you love hard boiled.

My sister-in-law has a farm and we often bring home fresh eggs.

But I would save those for fried, omelettes, poached and then use store bought eggs for the hard boiled version to make egg salad sandwiches and other dishes.

But I have found the secret to easy peeling and here it is:

Step 1 - Bring a pot of water to a boil and then carefully lower the eggs into the pot.  Make sure there is enough water to cover them completely.

Step 2 - Boil 8 minutes

Step 3 - Leave on burner but turn off the heat and let them sit there for 20 minutes.

Step 4 - Drain the pot and then with the lid on shake a bit to start some cracks in the eggs.

Step 5 - (this is the trick!)  Cover them with ice water.

Step 6 - Leave in the ice water until they are completely cooled.

Step 7 - PEEL and you will be amazed.

This way you can enjoy your fresh farm eggs as sandwiches and any other dishes that require hard boiled and peeled.

Have the Ice Water Ready before Step 4, so you don't have to go looking.

I simply take a large bowl or jug and fill with ice cubes and then fill with coldest water from the tap a few minutes before draining the eggs.

That is it!

The older the eggs the easier they are to peel.  But I totally enjoy the farm fresh ones as I find their yolks to be darker yellow and they just taste better.  Her hens are free range and happy so the eggs are always nice.

Hope this helps you for that next batch of egg salad sandwiches with fresh eggs!

DIY Perfect Popcorn on the Stove

With microwave popcorn readily available, the old fashioned "pop your own" seems to have disappeared.

But I have to to tell you, there is a HUGE difference in taste, plus I am not sure about the microwave popcorn myself.

But I was sent on an errand for my daughter in law to buy "unpopped popcorn" but what she really meant was the microwave stuff.... so I have a bag of plain unpopped corn sitting around.  So decided to try it.

Check out this video by Simply Recipes:

What you will Need:

*Oil of some kind, they use coconut oil, but you can also use vegetable oil.

*Note:  Don't use olive oil as this is too high a temp and will give a burnt flavor.  Keep olive oil for your salads.

*Unpopped corn (You can usually get this in a bag at grocery store in the same section as popcorn and nuts etc)

*Butter and salt for flavors..

Method:

Step 1 - In a large pot, cover the bottom of the pot with oil.

Step 2 - Heat on med/high heat

Step 3 - Add a couple of kernels when the oil is starting to slightly sizzle, and wait for them to pop.

Step 4 - Once they pop add in the rest.  (follow the bag for amounts)

SECRET RIGHT HERE....  so this is the true secret to beautifully popped and no burnt popcorn.

➽Step 5 - After pouring in the kernels, take the pot off the heat for 30 seconds, sit it on a heat proof mat.  This I think allows the kernels to get into the oil

Step 6 - Then place back on the heat with a lid slightly ajar to let the steam out. (definitely don't forget the lid or you will have popcorn popping everywhere!).

Step 7 - Shake the pan back and forth a bit.

Step 8 - Once the popping mostly stops.  Pour into a waiting large bowl.

Step 9 - Put the pot back on the heat and melt some butter.

Step 10 - Pour over the popcorn and add salt and other seasonings of your choice.

Mix.

That's it!! 

Cozy up somewhere, put on Netflix and get munching!

Obviously you have to be careful around any hot pot or oil, so you can't just leave this like a popcorn maker, but there really is a difference in taste.

It tastes much fresher.

Now that you have the hang of this, you can make you own much cheaper than the microwave stuff.

If you truly don't like the idea of the stove top version, and don't have a microwave, you can get a air popcorn maker.

Give the above method a chance. I find this method tastes just like at the movies!

Upcycle Your Kitchen Pans - DIY Farmhouse Decor

I was going through my pans under my stove and decided it was time to get rid of those non stick ones that had seen better days.

They were not good enough to donate, but hated the thought of throwing them in the trash... until I came across this brilliant recycling idea into farmhouse decor (which I love too!).

Check out this video:

If you are crafty, you probably already have all the supplies needed, but if not, they are not that expensive.

Just think of all the super cool upcycled gifts you could make!

What you will Need:

• Old fry pan
• napkins in a pattern you like (dollar store has loads of them!)
• Mod Podge
• acrylic colors
• twine for the handle
• DECO varnish gloss (to protect your project)
• GESSO 

Method:

Make sure pans are super clean.  Nothing will stick to grease!  I found a final swipe of rubbing alcohol gets rid of any residue.

Using the GESSO paint the pans and let dry between coats.

NOTE:  Gesso is basically a white primer that artists use on canvas for a base.

Make sure the napkin layers are completely separated..   You should be able to see the back side of the pattern.  (Most napkins have at least 2 layers of plain tissue paper behind the pattern.)

Instead of tearing the pattern out, use a tiny paint brush with water to outline the area you want and it will tear much easier.

What to Do About Wrinkles?

If you glue the napkin pattern a bit at a time this helps, but also spreading a piece of plastic wrap over top and using your hands smooth it out.  This stops it all from ripping.

Watch the video to see just how she finishes this project.


Awesome Way to Use Up Those Leftover Paper Napkins!

Check that drawer in the kitchen for any leftover paper napkins from that last party to use for this project, otherwise check the dollar tree or online for some super cute patterns depending on the theme you are going for.

I have also found that the Dollar Tree has an online presence for ordering and having things shipped to you. 

This way you are not only upcycling frying pans, but recycling those napkins too!

Would make an awesome housewarming gift too!

Transform a Rental Kitchen with Just 3 Removable Products

If you are renting and your kitchen has seen better days, or maybe you own your home but have no money for renovations, then check out these ideas!

As someone who has been on both sides as a tenant and a landlord, I was amazed at the products on the market that can transform a kitchen but be removed quickly without damage at all!

If you want to put your own personal stamp on your kitchen without damage, then check this out!

Cover the back splash, counter top and floor for an instant uplift.  It is like a different kitchen!

You don't even have to use all these ideas.  Just one of these would make a huge difference.  All you need to do is make sure the area is clean and then cut, peel and stick.

Some landlords are not that great at keeping things nice, but at the same time they don't want you to do any permanent DIY.  I wish I had come across these products especially the counter top idea when I was renting.  The counter in my rental had literally worn and looked ugly.

I sourced many of these products from the video online for a good price.

Smart Tiles for Back Splash

The Decorative Peel and Stick Counter Top If you want to also do the floors you can get peel and stick to cover existing. Moonwall Stickers have a ton of different designs to choose from. They are peel and stick and durable.

The products on the market are super durable and have that 3D look to give them depth and some realism, as if they were real ceramic tiles.

Did You Get an Ugly Refrigerator in your Rental?

Some rentals include appliances, and many refrigerators have seen better days.  You can paint them with appliance paint but that can be messy, permanent and stinky.  I came across these fridge stickers that can literally make your refrigerator front and center and definitely a conversation piece!


There are so many creative ways to decorate your rental kitchen and put your own personal stamp and flare on it. Make yours bright and clean and you will enjoy hanging out in the kitchen!

Kitchen Cabinets

If you update the back splash, counter and floors and are left with pretty ugly cabinets, and you are willing to go the extra mile to cover them, you can transform them instantly with this removable peel and stick faux wood.

I thought this made for awesome shabby chic!


You can totally update your kitchen on the cheap and it will look awesome. This is not just for rental kitchens. This is an awesome way to temporarily update your present kitchen until you can afford to do the renovation.

 Why live with an ugly kitchen? 

 It is the heart of any home.  To enter a nice fixed up kitchen first thing in the morning can make your day that much brighter, especially if you are going to be living here for a while.

If you are not a fan of painting or DIYs, then by using removable products you are not causing any harm.  There is no mess, spilled paint, special equipment or smells.

You may find the landlord will want you to leave it!

How to Make Zucchini Noodles Fast - Create Veggie Pasta for a Healthy Meal

If you are trying to follow a low carb, keto, paleo or gluten free diet, or simply want a change from regular flour based pasta, then try zucchini noodles.

Once you include them in your favorite recipe you really won't notice the flour missing.  It is nice to have alternatives and yet enjoy the dishes you always loved.

Check out this video for the quickest ways to create them.

All you really need to give this a try is a vegetable peeler or a box grater.  You don't have to own any fancy equipment especially if you are just wanting to try it out.

I personally find these noodles are perfect for taking the place of not only pasta but rice, especially in those stir frys.

So if you have been told to follow a low carb diet, or you simply want to lose a few pounds and eat more veggies at the same time, then stock up on some zucchini or grow them yourself.  They are such a versatile veggie and affordable in the grocery store.

Zucchini Pasta

Super easy!

1.  Simply create the noodles (follow the above video) and I like to roll them in a paper towel to get out the excess moisture.  Zucchinis tend to be on the wet side, so this stops them from going mushy.

2.  Heat a pan and add a bit of oil and then the noodles

3.  Stir fry and stir around for 3-5 minutes until tender.

4.  Add your favorite tomato sauce, meatballs or just Parmesan cheese.

That is it!

Super tasty.  You won't even miss the regular noodles if you put your favorite toppings on, or you can use these in a quick stir fry and skip the rice.

or...

create the noodles, stir fry for a few minutes then add cooked chicken and beans and bit of broth and dinner is ready.

If you like the idea of the mandolin as in the video, you can get those online:



This is a great tool for slicing any veggie.

Or if you prefer them to look super fancy and cute, you can also get what is called a spiralizer, which can take any number of veggies (such as carrots and zucchini) and turn them into colorful noodles that look awesome on a plate.


Keto - Paleo - Gluten Free Diets If you are seriously trying to eat healthy whether to lose weight or simply feel better, then it doesn't hurt to invest in the right equipment to make life easier.

 As you can see by the above spirolizer, it can grate any veggie and make it a good looking addition to any meal, such as carrots, beats, cabbage, zucchini and more.

Perfect for salads as well as main meal recipes.

Zucchini Noodles Taste Awesome As Lasagna Too!

I made this one not long ago and it was awesome.

TIP:  Slice into wider noodles.  Place on a paper towel or tea towel and place another on top and press to get rid of any excess moisture, or pre-bake in oven for a few minutes to dry them out a bit.  I found the towels worked fine.

Then create the recipe as you normally would and bake it.  Your body won't miss the wheat or the carbohydrates that regular noodles have.  If you can't eat flour then using veggies as a substitute means you can still enjoy some of your favorite foods and recipes!

Stove Top Stuffing - Quick Recipe That Tastes Awesome

Something a Little Different for the Chef in the House

If you happen to have a leftover box of Stove Top Stuffing kicking around, or something similar, then check out this quick recipe that I created last week.  It is not just for turkey dinners!

This is a bit of a twist on your typical Shepherds Pie

What you Will Need:

• 1 x lb ground beef (or turkey or chicken)
• 1 x chopped small onion
• a bit of cooking oil
• 1 x cup of chopped mushrooms (optional)
• 1 x Beef OXO cube dissolved in a 1/2 cup of water
• 1 x tablespoon corn starch or soup thickener
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup x HP Sauce or A1 steak sauce (my secret ingredient!)
• 1 x Box Stove Top Stuffing

Method:


Pre-Heat Oven to 400 Degrees F.

• Heat the cooking oil and add the chopped onion and mushrooms.
• 
  
• Cook until softened
• 
  
• Add the ground meat and cook until no pink is showing.
• 
  
• Add the OXO mixture, salt and pepper and the HP or A1 sauce.
• 
  
• Stir well
• 
  
• Add the corn starch (this thickens the gravy)
• 
  
• Pour into a casserole dish and set aside

Make the Stuffing

• Make the Stove Top Stuffing
• 
  
•  in a separate pot following the package directions.
• 
  
• Spread the stuffing over the meat mixture when it is ready.
• 
  
• Bake in oven for 20 minutes or until the stuffing is crispy on top and meat is bubbling.
• 
  
• Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
• 
  
• Makes great leftovers too!

Change it Up Depending On What you Have Leftover in Your Fridge

The best part about this recipe is that you can mix and match too!  Add different flavors, different sauces or spices.

I just find that the layer of stuffing on top instead of the traditional mashed potatoes really adds a nice flavor.

I had a box laying around from Christmas, and didn't just want it as a side dish and I wasn't planning a turkey anytime soon and it wasn't quite enough to stuff one!

Add the stuffing over any casserole, I have even used it on tuna casserole it tastes great.

I have been trying to re-create some of my favourite restaurant recipes and found this awesome book.

Click Here

This is a book  that reveals many of the secrets of your favorite restaurants so that you can recreate some of them at home.

Anyways enjoy!

Organizing a Small Kitchen - 10 Ways to Find Counter Space On the Cheap

I have done my share of downsizing and organizing a small kitchen can be difficult if you were used to lots of counter space and many cabinets!  Below are 10 ideas that you can make yourself or purchase online.

1.  Over The Sink Shelf

This is one of the easiest ways to get clutter off the counter, especially in a small space.  It is designed to avoid the faucet and is a great way to store everyday items you may need, which of course frees up counter space for food prep etc.

Over the Sink Storage

2.  What if You Have No Storage for Dishes at All?

You can get these tall racks that actually sit over the sink and are not only great for drying dishes but can also be used to store them.  This will get many things off your limited counter space by using the space behind the sink.  Who would have though of this?  This is such a cool storage idea and looks good and stylish!

Steel Dish Rack and Storage for Over Sink

3.  Using More Vertical Space with Chic Counter Shelves

You can get stacking shelves from the dollar store or you can also invest in the stainless steel look of shelves like these that are not only functional but good looking!

Stainless Steel Counter Storage

For under 25 bucks you can have the stainless steel modern look that can store a lot of supplies neatly on the shelves and under them.

4.  Get Awkward Appliances Off the Counter

The worst offenders are the small appliances.  Things like the coffee makers and the coffee pot can take up huge space.  There are ways to deal with this, and one of the best ways (beside's giving up your toast or coffee!) is to use the space under the upper cabinets.  I was pleasantly surprised by what you can get.

Spacemaker Toaster Oven

I know my posts are generally about saving money, but I really must admit this is an awesome use of wasted space!

5.  Add Shelves to the Shelves

Another option is to add under cabinet shelves to house those little things that take up so much room in the cabinets.  By using the vertical space under the shelves in your cabinets you can store things without stacking them on top of one another.

Under the Shelf Basket

6.  Under Sink Storage Around Plumbing

Under Sink Adjustable Shelves

Many people, including me, don't tend to utilize the storage under the sink in the kitchen.  With dishwashers, double sinks, and trash compactors, under the sink can be a mess of plumbing, and therefore cleaners tend to sit on the bottom of the cabinet.

These shelves work around the plumbing, and this way you can use the vertical space well as you can see in the picture.  It doesn't have to be cleaners, it can be anything you need to get off your counter but still have easy access to.

7.  Can Rack Organizer

Next place to really get organized to create more space is the food storage, in particular, canned goods.

If your shelves are taken up with canned goods, then storing them in a more useful way will not only make it easier to find what you want, but will give you more space for other items.

Can Rack Organizer

This is a very popular item, and you can totally organize your can storage and at the same time see just what is in the cupboard and not have them work their way to the back (like mine!) I found cans on moving day I didn't know I had!

The better organize the cabinets you have are, the less things that have to sit on the counter, creating more room.

8.  Magnetic Fridge Organizer

This one is super cool.  Using the side of the refrigerator for storage of spices, paper towels and more.  If you have the side of your fridge exposed as in the picture, this rack has heavy duty magnets to hold it in place.

Magnetic Fridge Organizer

As you can see in the picture, this will store quite a few things that might be hanging around your counter top, especially paper towels.

9.  Microwave Rack and Storage

If like many people, including me, your microwave oven takes up space on your counter, then instead of piling things on top of it, why not add some shelves?   This is a great way to use the space over the microwave in a more organized fashion!

Microwave Shelves

10.  Over Cabinet Door Organizer

If you have any cabinets, then using the doors is another awesome storage spot.  You can store hard to stack things like baking trays, cutting boards and muffin tins.

Over Cabinet Door Organizer

This rack doesn't cause any damage to the doors, as it simply slips over the top.  The trick is to utilize as much cabinet space as you can in an organized fashion so that the counter top remains clear.

A cluttered counter space makes it hard to do food preparation.  If you look closely at the things you need daily and come up with storage solutions, then you can make a small space work with very little investment of money.

I Hope the 10 Ideas Above Have Inspired You To Find that Extra Space in a Stylish Manner in Your Small Kitchen

If you implemented even half of the above ideas, you would be able to store a lot of kitchen supplies and in such a way that it is off the counter and easy to find.

In a small space you have to get creative with every square inch.  I hope I have inspired you to take a second look at your small kitchen and get organized for good!

Make your small kitchen an enjoyable space!

Smelly Fridge - 4 Fast Ways to Get Rid of the Bad Smell in Your Refrigerator

I spent a day trying to source the bad odor in my fridge.  I pulled out all the food, threw out anything that was questionable or looking like a science project, cleaned and yet there it was.  That slightly foul smell that happened when I opened the refrigerator doors!

It would waft into the kitchen and just make you cringe your nose.  Super lovely for guests...NOT

Before you lose your patience, give these ideas a try.  Sometimes fridges just stink!

If it is Sunday Morning and You are in Your Jammies... No Time for Shopping... Give these a try.

After much research and determination, I have discovered 4 ways that actually work right now, while you are thinking about it.  You can purchase products for this specific problem, but if it is a Sunday Morning and you are in your jammies, then try these ideas!

1.  COFFEE - I know you may consider this wasting that precious morning pick me up elixir, but you can spare a little I am sure!

Take some fresh ground coffee and place in a very shallow bowl so that there is a large surface area.  Leave it in there for as long as you can, and almost right away you will just be hit with the pleasant smell of coffee.  It will absorb a lot of odors.  The longer you can leave the doors shut the better.

2.  WHITE VINEGAR - This one works right away too.  The only problem is you need the room for a shallow dish of vinegar and be able to place it where it won't get spilled or you will have a new odor!  But it does wonders at neutralizing bad smells, almost right away.

3.  VANILLA EXTRACT - This one is a nice alternative, if you don't have any coffee or vinegar but since you love baking you do have vanilla!  Take a few cotton balls and soak with vanilla and place them in parts of the fridge where they won't get sent flying.   Don't use a lot of vanilla or your food will take it on as a added flavor, but maybe that would be good!

You need to use food grade items for odor absorbers...  Don't get into chemicals, or your food will taste of them and you will have a new problem.

4.  BAKING SODA - This is a standby, but don't just simply open the box and stuff it in there.  You need to spread it out onto a plate or wide dish so that there is a bigger surface area exposed to absorb odors. 

If odors are bad, then haul out pie plates and spread any of the above to make a huge surface area to do the absorbing.

Fridge Cleaning

Yes, the natural deodorizers above will only go so far in eliminating odors if your fridge is full of science projects.. such as leftover takeout containers or spilled milk.

Under The Vegetable Bins - Where Food Goes to Die!

These were the worst areas in my fridge.  I pulled them out and realized anything that had gone missing from my fridge in the above shelves, found a new home under the veggie bins!

I swept them out, and then cleaned them with a bit of vinegar and warm water.  My refrigerator lets me know if I have the doors open to long with an alarm, so I did this in stages!

Under the Fridge Migration

My refrigerator has a freezer on the bottom, so there is a vent just in front, which I unscrewed and found that spilled liquids of some sort had worked its way under there.  I carefully cleaned and vacuumed under this area.

The odors were much less noticeable, but as it turns out, that is just the nature of the beast.

Refrigerators simply love to harbor some pretty foul odors with no real noticeable source.  So by adding absorbents such as coffee, vinegar, vanilla and yes baking soda, you will notice within 24 hours how less stinky it is when you open those doors.

You can also purchase products specifically designed for this problem online.  I love the one that can hang on the wall of the fridge and not take up room on the shelves.