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Day: November 20, 2023

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How to Grow Garlic in Pots So You Never Have to Buy It Again

Garlic is an essential ingredient in our gastronomy. Excluding it from the diet is almost impossible, and it wouldn’t even make much sense.

Garlic is very rich in vitamin E, magnesium and selenium, as well as numerous antioxidant compounds which give it countless therapeutic properties and health benefits.

Few people know that  growing garlic in pots  is very simple, and very little is needed to have a constant supply of this excellent vegetable. By growing garlic at home, you will have an organic and pesticide-free product, in addition to saving money.

To  grow garlic  , you need 1 clove of garlic, 1 pot about 20 centimeters deep and some soil.

Select a clove and, without removing the husk, plant it about 10 centimeters deep in the potting soil, with the pointed end facing up.

If you decide to plant more than one clove, make sure to leave about 8cm of separation between them. The garlic will take a few weeks to germinate.

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November 20, 2023
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FROZEN FRUIT SALAD

Frozen fruit salad is a blast from the past.  This vintage recipe is a cool and delicious way to eat your fruit. It is at home at all of our holiday meals, but would also be a fun summer side dish!

This vintage recipe comes straight from my great-grandma’s recipe box. It is a fun twist on marshmallow fruit salad, but even more fun because it is frozen!

It is perfect for holidays or as a refreshing summer side dish. Frozen fruit salad could even be a light dessert.

This recipe is still a staple at my family holidays.  My Aunt Jenny usually makes it now and it is present at every Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups whipped topping, plus more for serving
  • 1 pint Strawberries, diced
  • 2 large bananas, chopped and diced
  • 20 ounces crushed pineapple, drained

Instructions Ho To Make Frozen Fruit Salad

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November 20, 2023
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BUTTERNUT COOKIES

Butternut Cookies. These are my most requested cookie. I usually make at least 500 of these at Christmas. It’s a very simple recipe but packed with lots of flavors!

INGREDIENTS 

  • 3/4 c butter, room temperature + 1 Tbsp
  • 1/2 c powdered sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 3/4 c all-purpose flour
  • 1 pkg package butterscotch chips, 6 oz.
  • 1 c finely chopped pecans

RUM GLAZE

  • 3 c powdered sugar
  • 3 to 4 Tbsp milk or water
  • 1 tsp rum extract

TOPPING

1/2 c chopped pecans.

How To Make Butternut Cookies

1. Cream butter with powdered sugar and salt until light and fluffy.

2. Blend in flour; mix well.

3. Add butterscotch chips and 1 cup finely chopped pecans.

4. Mix well by hand.

5. Shape dough, a scant teaspoonful at a time, into balls. Place 1-inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet.

6. Bake in 325 F oven for 15- 20 minutes or until firm but not brown. Let cool on wire racks.

7. Make rum glaze. Mix the powdered sugar, rum extract, and milk until smooth.

8. You can either dip the cookies in the glaze or use a spoon to pour over cookies.

9. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and allow the glaze to set up.

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November 20, 2023
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How to propagate an orchid from a leaf.

Orchids  are  a passion that many of us share, and it’s no wonder. These wonderful plants give us some of the most beautiful flowers in nature, with the most varied shapes and colors. However, they have a small drawback: they are really expensive.

Few people know, however, that  orchids can also be propagated at home  , following precise but very simple processes. Preferred methods include propagation through cuttings, sowing, dividing a plant, and stem propagation.

The orchid leaf  alone is not suitable for propagation. It does not have growth points that can give life to new roots. That is why it will be necessary to remove a leaf with a small piece of the trunk.

Few people know, however, that  orchids can also be propagated at home  , following precise but very simple processes. Preferred methods include propagation through cuttings, sowing, dividing a plant, and stem propagation.

The orchid leaf  alone is not suitable for propagation. It does not have growth points that can give life to new roots. That is why it will be necessary to remove a leaf with a small piece of the trunk.

Before you start  propagating an orchid from a leaf  , prepare the necessary tools. You need sharp, sterilized garden shears, a plastic container, some filtered water, and the following fertilizers: a rooting agent, some activated charcoal, and a mixture of cytokines and succinic acid.

The process of  propagating an orchid  from a leaf is one of the most complex and slow: the roots can take more than a year to develop.

The  leaf to be propagated  must be taken from a healthy adult plant. Use the scissors to cut the leaf and the piece of trunk, then let it dry for 8 hours.

Next, pour some rooting agent over the leaf and the piece of trunk. Dissolve some activated charcoal in water and then put the leaf and stem in the solution. The neck of the sprout should be completely submerged in water.

Before planting the orchid in potting soil, check for signs of mold or rotting pieces of the plant.

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November 20, 2023
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Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

In the realm of quick, flavorful meals, a sun-dried tomato pasta with a creamy parmesan sauce stands as a culinary gem. Its versatility, whether as a vegetarian main course or a delightful side dish, pairs effortlessly with an array of proteins, from roasted chicken to grilled pork or braised short ribs.

Recipe: Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Begin by bringing a generously salted pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until it reaches that perfect al dente texture, remembering to reserve a cup of the pasta water for sauce thinning if necessary. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly.

In a spacious skillet over medium heat, infuse the dish with flavor by sautéing sun-dried tomatoes in a touch of olive oil or the oil from the tomatoes themselves. Add minced garlic and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, letting the aroma develop for about a minute.

Tips for Culinary Success

  • Sauce Consistency: Retain a cup of pasta water to both thin the sauce and enhance its adherence to the pasta. This water, stored in the fridge, proves invaluable for reviving leftovers.
  • Oil from Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Utilize this oil for an added depth of color and flavor to the dish.
  • Pasta Variety: While rigatoni or penne work splendidly, don’t shy away from experimenting with mostaccioli or ziti.
  • Wine Selection: Opt for a good quality dry white wine like sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio for an enhanced flavor profile.
  • Storage and Reheating: Safely store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a touch of refrigerated pasta water to gently thin the sauce.
  • Freezing Precaution: While freezing this pasta is possible for up to two months, be aware that upon thawing and reheating, the sauce might lose some visual appeal. To combat this, reheat gently over low heat, stirring continuously, and introduce a splash of fresh cream or milk.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb rigatoni or penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or a small amount of oil from the sundried tomatoes)
  • 1 cup julienne-cut sundried tomatoes packed in oil (drained)
  • 3 cloves of minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup dry white wine or chicken broth (or a combination of both)
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 ⅓ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups baby spinach (approximately 3 ounces)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Pasta Perfection:

Begin by bringing a generous pot of salted water to a lively boil. Add the rigatoni or penne pasta, and cook until it achieves al dente perfection, following the package instructions. Remember to preserve 1 cup of this pasta water, which can work its magic if the sauce needs a touch of thinning. Drain the pasta thoroughly.

2. Sizzling Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, introduce 2 tablespoons of olive oil or the oil captured from the sundried tomatoes. Drop in the drained julienne-cut sundried tomatoes and sauté for approximately 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting them sizzle for a delightful 30-60 seconds while stirring continuously.

3. Wine and Cream Dance:

Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for several minutes, gracefully reducing the wine by half. Then, whisk in the luscious heavy whipping cream and continue to simmer for about 5 minutes to create a rich and velvety sauce.

4. Cheese Elegance:

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and slowly introduce the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a sumptuous, creamy masterpiece.

5. Spinach Serenity:

Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and allow it to delicately wilt, infusing the dish with vibrant green goodness.

6. The Grand Pasta Reunion:

It’s time for the grand finale! Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet, gently stirring to coat every delightful piece with the rich, creamy sauce. As the finishing touch, season your creation with red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to your personal taste preferences.

Cooking Notes:

  • Remember, when crafting pasta with sauce, always keep a watchful eye on that essential 1 cup of reserved pasta water. It not only helps in achieving the perfect sauce consistency but also ensures the sauce clings affectionately to the pasta. For future use, store this pasta water in the fridge, sealing its freshness within an airtight container for 2-3 days.
  • Embrace a touch of the oil from the sundried tomatoes; it contributes delightful flavor and a dash of inviting color to the dish.
  • While rigatoni and penne work wonderfully for this recipe, feel free to explore alternatives like mostaccioli or ziti.
  • When selecting the ideal dry white wine, seek out quality options like sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio, ensuring it’s one you’d enjoy sipping on its own.

This sun-dried tomato pasta recipe, complemented by a luscious parmesan cheese sauce, not only offers a delightful vegetarian main but also serves as a versatile side dish for an array of succulent meat accompaniments. With simple yet crucial tips for sauce consistency, storage, and pairing suggestions, this recipe brings a burst of flavor and convenience to your dining table.

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November 20, 2023
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The best soil for orchids has been revealed, perhaps you were always wrong: which one is it?

Orchids  are beautiful plants  , but as such they are also difficult to grow. If experienced nurserymen are concerned about location and how much water they should give each day, there is another factor to  consider. Often and willingly, in fact, the soil for orchids is bad. To this day, it has always been thought about being able to donate a set of elements of various kinds to the plant. This being very difficult to handle, it requires  special ingredients.

Orchid: the elegant but difficult plant

The  orchid plant  is considered one of the most elegant in the world. In fact, its variants are particular and the colors of the flowers constantly change. They are plants linked to popular traditions, ideal for a sophisticated gift and also to beautify the home with a particular touch.

However, not everyone can  afford to grow orchids  at home precisely because they are impossible to handle. It requires humid places, light but not direct exposure to the sun. It also requires a lot of water, but never so much that its roots rot. It is native to tropical and warm areas, with a special need  for soil.

The real secret is not to do like everyone else, but to let the experts reveal  which one is right  . With a set of valid ingredients for this plant, many benefits can be obtained. You will notice rapid, healthy and lush growth over time.

Potting soil for orchids: which one to choose?

What soil to choose  for orchids in order to promote and favor their growth? This is a plant that requires a specific set of nutrients. It is important to choose and evaluate ingredients that may have a good composition, pairing with each other to nourish and allow  adequate flowering.

The soil required is high in nitrogen and well drained. In fact, remember that this is a plant that favors humidity even if  it does not want soils with stagnant water  . The above conditions must be favorable and not adverse for the plant.

In addition to nitrogen  , you can also add spruce bark, a semi-impermeable material that helps drainage without ever weighing down the soil itself.

The bark chosen must be very pure, otherwise it may contain substances that are highly harmful  to the plant  . If an alternative is desired, pine bark can also be considered, although in smaller quantities. The bark must be changed at each transplant, therefore  approximately every 2 or 3 years  . If in doubt, always ask your trusted nurseryman for help. Prefer a DIY soil, to compose, the ready ones could contain additional unfavorable substances.

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November 20, 2023
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Geranium: the trick to having an infinite number from one stem without spending a cent Please, we need your help to stay on this social network. Say something to our posts (yes, cute emoticons or smilies are helpful) otherwise we will disappear Link in first comment 👇👇👇☺️

Embrace the holiday spirit with our Festive Spice Elixir, a delightful twist on the classic homemade eggnog. Ditch the store-bought versions with preservatives and artificial ingredients and treat your loved ones to a creamy concoction infused with the warm flavors of nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of ground cloves. This easy-to-make recipe promises to elevate your festive gatherings, impressing family and friends with its rich, indulgent taste.

Festive Spice Elixir

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole milk or 2%
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of ground cloves
  • 6 egg yolks (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Extra ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

  • In a medium saucepan over medium/medium-low heat, blend milk, cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Whisk frequently until the mixture is almost boiling.
  • In a large bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar. Gradually add sugar (2 tablespoons at a time), whisking thoroughly before each addition.
  • Using a ladle, incorporate about 1/3 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking thoroughly. Continue this process until most of the milk mixture is integrated into the egg mixture.
  • Return the combined mixture to the saucepan. Cook, whisking constantly, until the temperature reaches 160 degrees F. The mixture will be slightly thick but will further thicken as it cools.
  • Remove from heat, whisk in vanilla, and serve with optional whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Notes:

  • Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches 160 degrees F.
  • Stir and whisk almost constantly to prevent burning or scorching.
  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Adjust spice levels according to your taste preferences.
  • For optimal flavor, chill the eggnog overnight.

Conclusion:

Delight in the warmth and charm of the holiday season with our Festive Spice Elixir. This unique take on the traditional eggnog guarantees a creamy, flavorful experience that will leave lasting memories. Whether enjoyed by the fireside or as the highlight of your festive gatherings, this homemade masterpiece is sure to become a cherished tradition in your holiday celebrations. Cheers to the joy of sharing and savoring the magic of the season!

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November 20, 2023
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How to fertilize and propagate geranium: tips to make it grow abundantly

Do you want to propagate geranium at home for free? Here’s how! It may seem difficult, but you just need to follow a few simple steps to start from a small card and then fill the whole house with color. You’ll need some easy to find materials and you can see the rest of the process in our video!

Do you have geraniums at home but would like to take care of them in a more natural and effective way to literally fill your balcony? Here’s how! Perhaps until today you thought that the only solution would be to buy a new plantation and yet, from the one you already have at home, you can have many more! Infallible and totally natural tips for fertilizing and multiplying them at no cost!
DIY fertilizer

Ingredients:

  • 3 drops of castor oil
  • 1/2 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide
  • 1l of water

Preparation:

We dilute all the ingredients together and then use the resulting mixture directly on the soil to fertilize. Our geraniums will immediately become more luxuriant!

And to distribute it?

Materials:

  • coal
  • Geranium cutting
  • Glass to recycle
  • Twine wire
  • Universal floor
  • Perlite
  • Old jam pot

Preparation:

  • Here’s the tip for freely propagating your geraniums: start by taking a cutting and using a well-disinfected pair of scissors, remove the leaves from the cutting, leaving only the last ones at the top.
  • Now let’s prepare a bowl of crumbled activated charcoal and immerse the living part of the cutting in it. This will help as a rooting hormone for the plant. Now let’s prepare the jar. Take an old jam jar and fill it halfway with water. Next, we take a recycling paper cup and punch it at the bottom.
  • At this stage we pass a thread of string inside to tie well and stop so that the longest part remains outside the glass. Now let’s fill it with a mixture of potting soil and perlite. Only at the end can we insert the cup into the glass, then the glass into the jar so that the string touches the water.
  • We wait a few weeks and our cutting will have taken root, only 20 days will be enough before we can plant it in its new pot!

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November 20, 2023
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Cheesy Pierogi Casserole

Embark on a culinary journey with our one-of-a-kind Cheesy Pierogi Casserole, a gastronomic masterpiece that transforms humble cheddar cheese pierogies into a decadent delight. This recipe elevates weeknight dining, infusing classic comfort with layers of alfredo sauce, crispy bacon, green onions, and a luxurious blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. In just 45 minutes, you can create a culinary sensation that marries convenience with sophistication, making it the perfect choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Gourmet Recipe:

  • Effortless Elegance: With the convenience of frozen pierogies and jarred alfredo sauce, this casserole exudes gourmet elegance without the fuss, catering to those seeking a gourmet experience on a time budget.
  • Flavorful Harmony: Immerse yourself in the symphony of flavors as the cheddar pierogies meld seamlessly with the creamy alfredo sauce, smoky bacon, and the rich, melty goodness of mozzarella and cheddar. It’s a harmonious blend that delights the taste buds with every bite.
  • Accessible Indulgence: Enjoy gourmet without the gourmet price tag. All the ingredients, carefully curated for maximum flavor, are readily available at your local grocery store, ensuring that culinary excellence is within reach.

Unveiling the Culinary Journey:

  • Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees and generously greasing a 9×13 inch casserole dish, setting the stage for a culinary masterpiece.
  • Layering the Symphony: Arrange half of the frozen cheddar cheese pierogies in the casserole dish, and drizzle them with half of the luxurious alfredo sauce, creating the first layer of flavor.
  • Bacon-Infused Crescendo: Sprinkle half of the crispy chopped bacon, finely chopped green onions, and a generous helping of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, building layers of savory crescendo.
  • Harmonious Repetition: Add the remaining pierogies to the composition, creating a symphony of flavors. Top them with the remaining alfredo sauce, bacon, green onions, and the final crescendo of mozzarella and cheddar.
  • Seasoned Finale: Season the dish with a touch of kosher salt and black pepper, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
  • Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Uncover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the casserole reaches the pinnacle of perfection – bubbly and cooked through.
  • Garnish with Grandeur: Conclude this culinary masterpiece by garnishing with finely chopped fresh parsley, adding a touch of grandeur to your creation.

The Art of Recipe Tips:

  • Frozen Magic: Discover the convenience of frozen pierogies, a magical ingredient readily available in most grocery store freezer sections.
  • Cleanup Symphony: Grease the casserole dish for an easy cleanup – an essential note in the symphony of convenience.
  • Boil-Free Brilliance: Revel in the brilliance of no pre-boiling; the pierogies will cook to perfection nestled within the layers of sauce and cheese.
  • Cheese Concerto: Personalize your cheese symphony; however, the harmonious blend of mozzarella and cheddar with alfredo sauce creates an exquisite culinary concerto.
  • Protein Variation: Explore the gastronomic landscape by substituting bacon with the rich flavors of browned Italian sausage for a delightful variation.
  • Leftover Overture: Store the culinary masterpiece in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and witness the flavors harmonize even further with each reheating, easily achieved in the microwave.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredient List:

  • 2 lbs frozen cheddar cheese pierogies
  • 1 (15 ounce) jar alfredo sauce
  • 8 pieces crispy cooked bacon, chopped
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley

Our Cheesy Pierogi Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience. With its effortless elegance, flavorful harmony, and accessible indulgence, this gourmet masterpiece stands as a testament to the art of fine dining at home. Whether shared with family on a busy weeknight or presented to guests as the star of a dinner party, this Cheesy Pierogi Casserole is a culinary composition that transcends the ordinary and celebrates the extraordinary. Elevate your dining experience – savor the symphony of flavors, and let every bite be a note in the gastronomic masterpiece of your making.

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November 20, 2023
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campfire s’mores hot cocoa

Indulge in the decadent allure of our signature Campfire Delight Cocoa—an exquisite blend of rich cocoa powder, velvety brown sugar, a hint of cinnamon, and a touch of salt. This luxurious concoction is brought to life with the comforting embrace of heated milk and half & half. As you gather around a warm, flickering campfire with cherished company, savor the magic of toasted marshmallows, a generous slice of your favorite chocolate bar, and the delightful crunch of crumbled graham crackers. Let this extraordinary cocoa elevate your cozy moments with loved ones.

 

 

Campfire Delight Cocoa Recipe:

  • For a single serving, gather the following ingredients:
  • 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • A pinch of cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of heated milk
  • 1/2 cup of heated half & half
  • 1/2 of your preferred Hershey’s chocolate bar
  • 4 toasted marshmallows
  • 1 tablespoon of crumbled graham cracker

Directions:

  • Toast 4 marshmallows to golden perfection and set them aside.
  • In a large mug, combine the cocoa powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, creating a tantalizing mixture.
  • Stir in the heated milk and half & half, ensuring a velvety, well-blended consistency.
  • Top the cocoa with the toasted marshmallows, allowing their warmth to infuse the beverage with an extra layer of deliciousness.
  • Gently place half of a Hershey’s chocolate bar into the mug, watching it melt and mingle with the cocoa.
  • Sprinkle the crumbled graham cracker on top, adding a delightful crunch to every sip.

Conclusion:

Serve this exquisite Campfire Delight Cocoa with additional graham crackers for dipping and watch as the luscious chocolate melts into the warm embrace of the cocoa. Let the aroma and flavors transport you to a haven of warmth and togetherness. Perfect for sharing moments around a cozy campfire, this unique creation promises a symphony of tastes that will linger in your memory, creating a truly unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.

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November 20, 2023
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