The best snackfood ever...

I have been posting recipes for the most part, but I really want to share other foodie stuff, including prepared food that are exceptional. One of those such foods I've found are Blue Diamond Jalapeno Smokehouse Almonds. They come in snack packs, as well as tins (as pictured on the right). More and more research has come out about almonds and how they are truly a superfood. I've been trying to work them into our diets on a more regular basis, and these almonds are a VERY easy way to do so. The smoke flavor tastes natural, and is not overpowering. The Jalapeno flavor adds heat, but it is not too intense. In many foods, I have found that the heat overpowers the taste of the 'real' food (in this case, the almonds), this almonds are a delicious exception. A few almonds are satisfying and filling. The whole family loves them, including my 4 year old!

Italian Soup...

I am a really big fan of all kinds of homemade soups and stews. I think that they are chock-full of good-for-you stuff that can be quite delicious and satisfying. I frequently make soups/stews... probably a pot every week. They are a big hit with everyone in the family, especially my children. Here is the latest creation I came up with... it was absolutely divine, and the kids and husband were BEGGING for more. I made enough for dinner, lunch the following day, as well as a large container to freeze. The best part is, it is extremely wallet-friendly...

Italian Tomato Soup

Ingredients:

1 6 lb can of whole peeled tomatoes with basil (I got mine from Costco)
3 stalks celery, chopped
2 large white onions, chopped
2 large green peppers, chopped
4 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 cups chicken broth
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp dried oregano
2 tsp dried basil
Freshly ground Sea Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked pepper, to taste

Combine all of the above ingredients in a crock-pot and cook on low for 8 hours. The tomatoes will soften and break up on their own. About a half hour before done cooking, add pre-cooked meatballs to soup, as desired. I added about 25 warm Armour meatballs. I also added 16 oz. can garbanzo beans. When warmed through, I sprinkled with parmesan cheese, to taste.

On the second day, when I rewarmed the soup for lunch, I added about 1/4 cup chicken broth to each bowl, because the soup had thickened overnight considerably.

This would also be GREAT with 1 10 oz package of drained (and warmed) spinach added along with the meatballs and garbanzo beans. Added to soups and sauces, spinach adds a wealth of nutrients, barely changes the taste, and little change is made to the texture...

This is a power-packed meal that is hearty and loved by everyone. The best part is, it is EASY to make.