What a busy blogging year! Despite a few absences, I really put a lot of time, energy, thought, and creativity into my little corner of the Internet this year. I've learned so much, developed my cooking, photography, and writing ability, and came closer to the place I'm hoping to take "Apple a Day." I made a presence (albet it very small one) on facebook, twitter, and Pinterest. I made a conscious effort to find unique recipes that would help me understand ingredients and techniques I wasn't completely familiar with. Looking back, I feel good about it. I hope you all enjoyed the savory side of "Apple a Day" in 2012. I know I did.
Here are my favorites from the past year. Looking at my stats and comments, they were some of your favorites, too.
Slow cooker chicken stew with sausage, white beans, and spinach--tasty, flavorful, filling, relatively healthy, and made in the slow cooker. What's not to love?!?
Southwest bacon and sweet potato hash--I love breakfast for dinner. Based on the response to this post, so do many of you!
Tropical chicken quesadillas with mango-avocado salsa--I'm a huge fan of quesadillas in just about any form and these were different enough to stand out from the pack. And the mango-avocado salsa? Forget about it. You might want to double the recipe. Just sayin'...
Moroccan chicken salad--a light, fresh, and healthy salad with a perfect balance of flavors and nutrition. As a bonus, it can be layered into a jar for a terrific lunch that's guaranteed to fuel you for the rest of the day.
Prosciutto-stuffed chicken with sautéed mushrooms--a simple meal that looks and tastes fancy enough for company. Paired with a crisp glass of white wine, this meal is sure to wow anybody.
Andouille sausage and shrimp with Creole mustard sauce--one bite of this took me right back to my amazing trip to New Orleans. I can't wait to make it again so I can reminisce with friends.
Chicken bacon ranch pizza--another fantastic and family-friendly recipe from my sweet friend Nikki. Everyone from my dad (not generally a fan of ranch dressing) to my niece loved it.
No-butter chicken--a lightened up Indian classic. With so much flavor, you'll never miss the calories!
Beef and butternut squash stew--a hearty winter staple gets a modern facelift thanks to two of my favorite and most flavorful ingredients, butternut squash and sun-dried tomatoes.
Fish tacos with grapefruit-avocado salsa--grapefruit season is in full swing. Jump start your healthy New Year's health resolutions this easy and figure-friendly meal.
Balsamic chicken with Swiss chard--another winner, winner chicken dinner from the slow cooker. I sure am glad I made more of an effort to use it last year!
Here are my favorites from the past year. Looking at my stats and comments, they were some of your favorites, too.
