Spagetti Aglio et Olio

I have an impressive capacity for Food Network.  I can watch it, without ever getting tired.  Heck, I've watched the same episode multiple times in one day.  Don't judge.  Conveniently, E doesn't seem to mind.  Every now and again, he even plops down and enjoys it too.  And sometimes, he sees a recipe and is like "OMG we need to have this for dinner.  Tonight."  This was one of those recipes.  He's a total pasta guy, so this was right up his alley.  And while I'm totally not a pasta girl, this was absolutely delicious.  And, I'll let you in on a secret, it's even better left over.  Seriously, the extra time the noodles get hanging out with the garlicky, cheesy goodness just amplifies the tastiness.  

Spring Roll in a Bowl

Some food speaks for itself.

But in case you like words... how about delicate rice noodles, topped with crisp carrots, cucumber, fresh mint, cilantro, and thai basil with a rich peanut sauce finished with crunchy, salty peanuts? 

Kung Pao Chicken

I have a long list of guilty pleasures....

• Trashy reality shows, like The Bachelor and The Million Dollar Matchmaker.  
• Heavily caffeinated anything (Monster Kaos, anyone??)
• Impractical shoes
• Ben and Jerry's Phish Food
• Rihanna.  And Demi Lovato.  Their songs rank amongst the top 25 most played on my iTunes.  I sing along.  Don't judge.
• Takeout Chinese food

Unfortunately, eliminating the guilt in garbage TV, ice cream, and Rihanna is out of the picture, but I can eliminate the guilt in Chinese food.  Everything delicious in kung pao chicken is encompassed in this tasty recipe, without the guilt of deep fat frying usually involved with takeout. (+ without the mess.  score.)  

Fluffy Banana Waffles

In case fluffy, crisp banana waffles weren't enough... I speckled them with chocolate chips, and topped them with sweet maple syrup, fresh bananas, and chocolate covered almond with coarse sea salt.  I'd call that a good morning.

Blackening Spice Mix

Blackening Spice Rub

1 tablespoon granulated garlic
1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 tablespoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons granulated onion
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Combine the garlic, black pepper, salt cumin, onion, cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika and chili powder in a small bowl. Store in an airtight container.

Recipe from Guy Fieri.