Hodge Podge

Ok so I made the Squash Stew last night and it was really good. I boiled down the squash so the soup was a nice creamy texture and then added all the veggies. I forgot to add the diced tomatoes and it still tasted great but I think the tomatoes would have added even more to the dish. I do plan to add this to my recipe box and make again. I plan to post a picture once I get all my vacation photos downloaded!

In the meantime here is a recipe of my own I am sharing! I hope you like it!!

Tamara's Spaghetti Squash Toss

1 medium spaghetti squash
2 tsp olive oil (I also use grapeseed oil)
2 cloves minced garlic
1/4 cup diced green onion
1 can diced tomatoes - drained
1 cup diced mushrooms
2 tsp basil
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp parsley
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)*
1/4 cup of parmesian and/or romano cheese
*For a spicier option toss in 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Optional - garnish with chopped fresh herbs and toasted pine nuts

To prepare spaghetti squash, Preheat oven to 375 degrees
Use a sharp knife, cut the squash in half lengthwise and place, cut side down, in a baking dish.

Add enough water to come 1/2-inch up the sides of the baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.

Bake for 45 minutes, until the squash is easily pierced with a paring knife. Turn squash over and cover with foil again and continue to cook another 15 minutes, until the squash is very tender.

Remove from the oven, uncover, and allow to cool slightly. Using a spoon, remove the seeds and discard. Using a fork, gently pull the strands of squash away from the peel and place the squash strands into a mixing bowl.

Warm large skillet on stove. Add olive oil and heat. Add garlic and cook stirring contantly for about 30 seconds. Add diced mushrooms and green onion and cook until juices run from mushrooms and they are glazed.

Add cooked spaghetti squash and stir to mix mushrooms and onions. Add diced tomatoes and spices. Toss as you cook so everything is mixed thoroughly.

Serve immediately and top with shredded cheese and garnish (if desired)

Lastly - since my kindergartner is home from school today I have been scouring the internet for some fun Halloween crafts. Here are a couple I plan to do with him today. I specifically was looking for crafts with items I already have around the house!

Horr-edible Hands found on Familyfun.com



These shiver-invoking popcorn treats make great Halloween hand-outs.

CRAFT MATERIALS:
Clear plastic gloves (available at beauty supply stores)
Candy corn
Cold popcorn
Yarn

1. Stick one candy corn at the tip of each finger inside the glove, pointy side up, for fingernails.

2. Fill the glove with popcorn and use a piece of yarn to tie a bow at the wrist.


Salt Dough Ghosts



This craft project is one your kids will quickly get into the spirit of: shaping a batch of mini sprites to use as party decorations or favors. For an even spookier effect, add these easy-to-make Paper Bag Trees

CRAFT MATERIALS:
1 cup flour
1 cup salt
1/2 cup water
Bowl
Wooden spoon
Fine-point permanent black marker

1. Combine the flour, salt, and water in a bowl. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until smooth.

2. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and shape each into a ghost, flattening the base so it will stand up.

3. Microwave the ghosts on a plate one or two at a time for 20- to 30-second intervals until the dough is fairly firm (about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes in total). Let the ghosts cool (they can get quite hot).

4. Use a fine-point permanent black marker to draw on eyes and a mouth.

So if you find yourself at home with a young one try these fun & cheap Halloween crafts!

I'm thinking of adding some food coloring to my salt ghosts and making salt pumpkins and bats too!

Happy Friday Everyone!!