Comforts from home

Thanksgiving is such a wonderful time of the year for my family, and we each share our favorite dishes to make. Of course, there's many dishes and sides that I always provide during this special day, but the fact that we are all together makes it worthwhile. Here is one of my simple recipes that I absolutely love to cook, and I hope that you do the same.
Most people cook a traditional green-bean casserole (which I do as well). However, we have many people attending dinner this year and I want to have another option. You may also add bacon to top this tasty dish!

• 2- 10 ounce packages of frozen broccoli (cuts, florets), thawed
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup canned mushrooms, slices or pieces, drained
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup of mayonnaise
• 2 eggs, slightly beaten
• 2 stacks of butter-flavored crackers, crushed, separated

Preheat oven to 425° F. Mix all ingredients with broccoli and 1 stack of crushed crackers. Smooth in baking dish and top with the remaining crushed crackers. Bake for 30 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Makes 8 servings.

Blessings!
~Joan

LABOR DAY PREPARATIONS!

School has started for some but for the rest of the little ones it's approaching.  The labor day madness of menus is right around the corner. So, what are you going to have for your guests?  Well, if your'e tired of doing the same traditional sides and need a few ideas here's some for starters:
Allow your guests to create their own salad.  I love this concept, a personal salad where you can put all of the fixings on is a crowd pleaser.  I tried a salad bar & potato bar with my guests & it was a huge hit. This is especially good for a crowd 16 & up!  Try new salad toppings to add such as, baby shrimp, caramelized onions, or grilled artichokes.  For the potatoes, try mushroom soup, or rosemary+bacon strips & infuse them with garlic. :)  MMmmmm the aroma alone cannot be touched!

But, if your'e looking for fun things to try for the kids, have them be apart of the presentation.  Allow your children to make a couple pieces from the dessert dish.  For example, let them help you ice the cake so that they feel included, or even put the sprinkles on cupcakes! This will make them smile & believe me they will tell all of their little friends!
Blessings!
~Joan