Tasty Tips from Tina Terpko
July 19, 2009
Everyone knows to get a child to try new foods it’s important to make them appealing to all the senses. Kids don’t want to try brussel sprouts because they smell and look like something the cat coughed up. But add a little butter and garlic and they start to smell like something that they may give a try. Husbands are the same way. When Ron and I were first married my culinary skills were limited to say the least. At least 4 days a week we would have tuna surprise. What is tuna surprise you ask? Well, it is basic macaroni salad with a can of tuna mixed in. One night it may have chopped up green peppers another night it may have cherry tomatoes….SURPRISE!
You can see how presentation would play a big part in the dinner experience. I have 2 great recipes that are not only pleasing to the taste buds but look great on any table.
Southern Cornbread Salad - courtesy of Paula Deen
A friend of mine served this at an anniversary party and it was not only something that tasted wonderful it helped make the table look beautifully festive.
- 1 batch cornbread, cut into 1 inch cubes, recipe below
- 1 (14.5 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can niblet corn, drained
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, finely chopped
- 1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 large tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups grated sharp Cheddar
- 1 (8 oz) bottle ranch dressing
Directions:
In the bottom of a large glass bowl, place cornbread cubes. Layer beans, corn, onion bell pepper, tomatoes, and cheese on top of cornbread. Spread ranch dressing evenly over the cheese. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Cornbread:
½ cup vegetable oil, plus ¼ cup for greasing pan
1 cup self-rising cornmeal
¾ cup self-rising flour
1 cup cream style corn
2 eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 cup grated sharp Cheddar, optional
½ tsp cayenne, optional
Preheat oven to 375
Generously season a cast iron skillet with up to ¼ cup vegetable oil. Preheat the pan either in the oven or on the stove over medium-high heat.
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl, stirring with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until combined. Pour batter into the preheated skillet. Place skillet in the oven and bake until golden brown, approximately 30 minutes.
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