Brunch Gathering Prize Package

92 Comments | Written on May 14, 2012 at 5:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

How much fun are these weekly giveaways?!  It is such a blast to offer something new and fun each week to our fantastic readers.

Now for the moment you have all been waiting for…our Vitamix winner!  Drumroll, please…

Congratulations to #1186 Erin P.!

It is also time to reveal the “Pillsbury Bake-Off Prize Package” winner.  Congratulatiosn to #181 Linda Montes!

I have emailed both of you and as soon as I hear back, your prize will be on it’s way.  Enjoy!

Here is what you could win:

“Mexican Made Easy” Cookbook by Marcela Valladolid

Bodum Brazil French Press Coffee Maker

New Harbor Coffee

Coffee Bar Konitz Mugs

Chocolate Spoons

Coffee Talk Game

Willow Group Basket

Here is all you have to do:

Leave a comment here on the blog telling us your favorite thing to eat (or drink!) at Brunch.  

One lucky winner will be randomly selected in one week from today. Be sure to come back to see if YOU are the winner!

Official Rules

*Note: Comments need to be approved through WordPress. If you don’t see yours right away, don’t worry…I will get to it as soon as I can! Remember to leave a comment right here on the blog itself, not on one of the photos, or on our Facebook or Twitter pages. Thanks!

By the way…if you love Brunch and are a fan of Food Network’s Chef Marcela Valladolid, be sure to check out Kahlua’s “Delicioso Brunch Club.”  Also, be sure to check the blog on Wednesday for my favorite brunch treat using Kahlua!

Vitamix Giveaway

1,520 Comments | Written on April 30, 2012 at 5:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

Are you all ready for one of the coolest blog giveaways ever?!?  I am so excited about this prize I can hardly contain myself!

That’s right…we are giving away a VITAMIX!!!

You have to check out this Vitamix 5200 Super Deluxe Complete Kitchen Package.

With three containers, two cookbooks, durable spatulas and flexible cutting boards, you’ll be prepared with everything you need to conveniently make entire meals with your Vitamix.

Here are some highlights of the machine:

64 oz. and 32 oz. containers for smoothies, hot soups, and frozen desserts
32 oz. Dry Grains container for grinding fresh, whole-grain flour and kneading dough
Also includes 2 cookbooks, durable kitchen spatulas, and flexible cutting boards

This high performance blender is the number one choice among professional chefs.  In fact, Vitamix is currently the sponsor of Chopped All-Stars!

Soon you will be cooking just like your favorite stars, because these machines are easy to use and extremely versatile. This one appliance can chop, cream, blend, cook, grind, knead, churn, and more!  Plus, it cleans itself in 30 seconds with a just a drop of dish soap and warm water.

Here is all you have to do:

Leave a comment here on the blog telling us why you have always dreamed of owning a Vitamix.  For one lucky Better Recipes reader this dream will come true!      

One winner will be randomly selected two weeks from today.  Be sure to come back to see if YOU are the winner!

Official Rules

*Note: Comments need to be approved through WordPress. If you don’t see yours right away, don’t worry…I will get to it as soon as I can! Remember to leave a comment right here on the blog itself, not on one of the photos, or on our Facebook or Twitter pages. Thanks!

For more information on Vitamix, be sure to check out their Facebook and Twitter pages.  You can connect with other Vitamix fans and owners for recipes, culinary ideas and any ongoing support.  Good luck everyone!

Pillsbury Bake-Off Prize Package

244 Comments | Written on April 23, 2012 at 5:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

Last week I told you all about the adventures in Orlando for the 2012 Pillsbury Bake-Off.  With the giveaway this week, you can feel like you are part of the action!

First, I want to make sure to announce the winner of the recent “Get Grillin’” giveaway.  Congratulations to #75 Dayne Seiden!  (I sent you an email, but haven’t heard back yet…be sure to respond so I can mail you the prize!)

By the way, don’t forget about the awesome $500 Pork Be Inspired giveaway we have going on as well.  Who doesn’t want some extra mulah?!

Simply click here and leave a comment on the discussion board as directed:  http://pork.betterrecipes.com/groups/start-with-pork/discussions/Start_with_Pork_-_You_Could_Win_%24500!/29045391

Here is what you could win:

Official 2012 Pillsbury Bake-Off Apron

Chef Jeff Cooks Cookbook – I made one of his recipes last week…it was to die for!

Martha Stewart Collection Cookie Jar

Martha Stewart Collection Mixing Bowl

Martha Stewart Collection Spoon

Smucker’s Tote Bag

Here is all you have to do:

Leave a comment here on the blog telling us what you would do with the money if you were the next $1,000,000 Pillsbury Bake-Off Winner!     

One lucky winner will be randomly selected in one week from today. Be sure to come back to see if YOU are the winner!

Official Rules

*Note: Comments need to be approved through WordPress. If you don’t see yours right away, don’t worry…I will get to it as soon as I can! Remember to leave a comment right here on the blog itself, not on one of the photos, or on our Facebook or Twitter pages. Thanks!

Easter Ham Leftover Solutions

3 Comments | Written on April 10, 2012 at 5:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

Did everyone have a wonderful holiday weekend?  Well, it’s about to get even better!  Right now we have an awesome opportunity to win $500 right here on Better Recipes!

Visit the “Start with Pork!” group and leave a comment on the discussion thread.  Here is the link:

http://pork.betterrecipes.com/groups/start-with-pork/discussions/Start_with_Pork_-_You_Could_Win_%24500!/29045391

It’s that easy!

Speaking of pork, how many of you have leftover Easter ham?  I know I do…such a fantastic problem to have!  These recipes are new and delicious ways to repurpose those leftovers into exciting recipes.

Ham and Peas with Mint and Tarragon  (click here to view and print recipe)

4 ounces cooked ham, cut into 1/4-inch dice

3 cups peas, fresh or frozen

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, (1/2 stick), cut into 4 to 6 pieces

1/4 cup fresh mint, coarsely chopped plus sprigs for garnish

2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, coarsely chopped , plus sprigs for garnish

Salt and pepper

Cooking Directions:

Bring a medium saucepan of well-salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the peas and cook until tender, 3 to 8 minutes depending on the size of the peas.

Drain the peas, reserving 2 tablespoons of the cooking water. Return the peas and cooking water to the saucepan. Add the ham, butter, mint, and tarragon, stirring until the butter melts. Season with salt and pepper.

Transfer to a bowl, garnish with the mint and tarragon sprigs, and serve.

Serves 4 to 6

Nutrition:

Calories: 200 calories Protein: 11 grams Fat: 9 grams Sodium: 85 milligrams Cholesterol: 40 milligrams Saturated Fat: 6 grams Carbohydrates: 15 grams Fiber: 6 grams

Ham, Bacon, and Caramelized Onion Tart  (click here to view and print recipe)

6 slices bacon, thick cut, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch strips

4 ounces cooked ham, cut into 1/4-inch dice

1 onion, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

one 9-inch deep-dish pie shell, homemade or store-bought, chilled

1 1/3 cups heavy whipping cream

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon nutmeg

8 asparagus spears, trimmed (optional)

Cooking Directions:

In a large skillet over medium-low heat, cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until crisped, 10 to 12 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a large bowl. Add the ham and heat, stirring occasionally, until browned, 3 or 4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to the bowl with the bacon. Add the onion, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, 3 or 4 minutes. Reduce the heat to very low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is golden brown and very tender, 12 to 14 minutes. Transfer the onion to the bowl with the bacon and ham and set aside to cool.

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place the pie shell on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until the pastry is pale gold along the rim, 20 to 25 minutes.

Add the cream, eggs, and nutmeg to the bowl with the bacon, ham, and onion, whisking to combine.

Remove the shell from the oven (leave the oven on). Pour the cream mixture into the shell and arrange the asparagus on top, if using. Bake until the tart is golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serves 6 to 8

Nutrition:

Calories: 400 calories Protein: 13 grams Fat: 31 grams Sodium: 550 milligrams Cholesterol: 180 milligrams Saturated Fat: 15 grams Carbohydrates: 16 grams Fiber: 2 grams

 

Blog Giveaway – Get Grilling Prize Package

407 Comments | Written on April 9, 2012 at 5:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

Wow!  Somehow, without even realizing it, spring is here!  I spent the weekend enjoying some of the beaches here in LA and it was positively balmy outside.  Kids were splashing in the water, families were picnicking in the sun and there were even a few portable grills out there on the sand.

The prize package this week will help one lucky winner enjoy their favorite grilled recipes on-the-go this spring and summer.  Check out the details below!

Speaking of grilling…did you know that the Better Homes and Gardens “Chill and Grill” Festival is back for the second year?  Read all about the festivities coming up on June 9th and 10th in Chicago!

Congratulations to a few of our recent winners…

Easter Ham – #247 Nancy B

Gourmet Knife Set and Carving Board Prize Package – #28  Pam Wingfield

Here is what you could win:

Smokey Joe Silver Weber Grill

Better Homes and Gardens “Grillin’ and Chillin’” Cookbook

Tongs

Here is all you have to do:

Leave a comment here on the blog telling us what you are excited to grill this summer!  From brats to burgers, veggies or dessert – you can prepare just about anything on a backyard grill.   

One lucky winner will be randomly selected in one week from today. Be sure to come back to see if YOU are the winner!

Official Rules

*Note: Comments need to be approved through WordPress. If you don’t see yours right away, don’t worry…I will get to it as soon as I can! Remember to leave a comment right here on the blog itself, not on one of the photos, or on our Facebook or Twitter pages. Thanks!

Blog Giveaway – Gourmet Knife Set and Carving Board Prize Package

196 Comments | Written on April 2, 2012 at 5:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

Giveaway time!

A sharp knife is one of the most indispensable tools in your kitchen.  Chefs say it should be an extension of your hand while cooking.  Good news…we are giving away a fantastic set this week!  Check it out:

Here is what you could win:

Wusthof Gourmet Studio Knife Set (By the way, my sister has this one and she looooves it!)

Wusthof 2-Stage Knife Sharpener – gotta keep those babies sharp!

Wooden Cutting Board

Here is all you have to do:

Browse around Better Recipes and find a recipe that inspires you!  Any dish that causes your mouth to water and makes you excited to get cooking.  Leave a comment here on the blog telling us which recipe is your favorite!  

It’s that easy.  One lucky winner will be randomly selected in one week from today. Be sure to come back to see if YOU are the winner!

Official Rules

*Note: Comments need to be approved through WordPress. If you don’t see yours right away, don’t worry…I will get to it as soon as I can! Remember to leave a comment right here on the blog itself, not on one of the photos, or on our Facebook or Twitter pages. Thanks!

Thyme-Basted Ham with Roasted Grapes

9 Comments | Written on March 28, 2012 at 5:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

Easter is right around the corner, and tomorrow is the last day to enter the special giveaway.  You could win a FREE HAM just in time for Easter dinner.  Hurry…click here to enter!

If you are still stumped on how to prepare your holiday ham, I have the recipe for you.  This recipe is easy as can be, but packed with flavor.  Grape jelly creates that sweet glaze we have all come to know and love with ham.  Roasted grapes are the perfect compliment and a gorgeous garnish for the serving platter.

Thyme-Basted Ham with Roasted Grapes  (click here to view and print recipe)  

6 to 8 pound bone-in fully-cooked ham, trimmed

Pepper

1/2 cup grape jelly

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, (1/2 stick), cut into 4 to 6 pieces

2 tablespoons thyme, chopped fresh

3 cups grapes, red, green, or a combination

4 shallots , halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch slices

Cooking Directions:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Position rack in lower third of oven.

Place the ham flat side down in a large shallow roasting pan and score a diamond pattern about 1/8-inch deep into any fat. Season with pepper and bake for 1 1/2 hours.

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the jelly, butter, and thyme, whisking occasionally until the jelly and butter melt together and the mixture comes to a gentle boil, 1 to 2 minutes. Cover and set aside. In a medium bowl, combine the grapes and shallots. Set aside.

Baste the ham with the jelly mixture. Continue baking, basting with the jelly mixture and/or pan juices about every 15 minutes. When the internal ham temperature reaches 120 degrees F, add the grapes and shallots to the roasting pan, stirring to coat with the pan juices. Continue baking and basting until internal temperature reaches 140 degrees F, 15 to 18 minutes per pound total cooking time. Remove the ham from the oven, transfer to a cutting board, and let rest 15 to 30 minutes. (If the grapes and shallots aren’t tender yet, return the roasting pan to the oven.)

Slice enough ham to serve and arrange on plates or a platter. Season the roasted grape, shallot, and pan juice mixture with pepper and spoon some on top of the ham. Serve the remaining grape mixture on the side.

Serves 15-20 (4-ounce servings)

Nutrition:  Calories: 280 calories  Protein: 33 grams  Fat: 11 grams  Sodium: 2040 milligrams  Cholesterol: 105 milligrams  Saturated Fat: 5 grams  Carbohydrates: 14 grams  Fiber: 0 grams

Ham may be the star of the meal, but it also needs a a great supporting cast.  Be sure to check out this link to some of our favorite “Easy Easter Side Dishes.”  You can also click here to participate in our latest poll and vote for your favorite side dish!

Special Giveaway – Holiday Ham!

456 Comments | Written on March 22, 2012 at 9:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

Surprise!  The Easter bunny has arrived early here at “The Daily Dish” because we have a special extra giveaway this week.

From today until Thursday 3/29 you can enter to win a Holiday Ham!

Here is all you have to do:

Leave a comment here on the blog telling us your favorite side dishes to serve along with your holiday ham.  

Not sure what to serve?  Check out our Easy Easter Sides page for recipe ideas.  Plus, you can find three fun ways to prepare your Easter Ham below.  Good luck everyone!

Apple-Maple Country Ham

Balsamic-Maple Glazed Ham

Crock-Pot Citrus Ham

Blog Giveaway – Wine Lover’s Prize Package

450 Comments | Written on March 19, 2012 at 5:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

Cheers!  The prize package this week is for the wine lovers among us.  Whether you consider yourself an astute Oenophile, or just someone who likes to sip a glass of wine at dinner, this giveaway is for you!

By the way…if you love wine, be sure to drop by our “Wine with Everything” group!

First of all, wine needs to breathe.  Simply put, wine which has been allowed to breathe tastes better!  It opens up and releases its intended aromas and flavors.  But sometimes after a long day, you don’t want to make the effort to use a time consuming, cumbersome and inconvenient decanter.  That’s where this prize package comes in!

Here is what you could win:

Vinturi Red Wine Aerator - The design of this aerator speeds up the process with ease and convenience.  Simply hold Vinturi over a glass and pour wine through. The device draws in and mixes the proper amount of air for the right amount of time, allowing your wine to breathe instantly. You’ll notice a better bouquet, enhanced flavors and smoother finish.

Vinturi White Wine Aerator - It’s a longstanding myth that white wine does not need aeration. The truth is that white wine displays the same improvements with aeration as red wine. This product has different internal dimensions and flow rates. The result is perfect aeration specifically for white wine!

The Food Lover’s Guide to Wine – a book offering endless serving suggestions and food pairings to your favorite wines.

Here is all you have to do:

Leave a comment here on the blog telling us your favorite wine!  You can be as generic as red, white or rose, or name a specific bottle and year.  Anything goes this week, wine lovers.  

One lucky winner will be randomly selected in one week from today. Be sure to come back to see if YOU are the winner!

Official Rules

*Note: Comments need to be approved through WordPress. If you don’t see yours right away, don’t worry…I will get to it as soon as I can! Remember to leave a comment right here on the blog itself, not on one of the photos, or on our Facebook or Twitter pages. Thanks!

Blog Giveaway – Gourmet Pizza Set Prize Package

345 Comments | Written on March 12, 2012 at 5:00 am , by Kristina Vanni

Mamma Mia!  It’s time for another giveaway!

There is no reason to make reservations or call for pizza delivery.   With this “Gourmet Pizza Prize Package” you have all the tools you need to create authentic pizzas at home!

The prize package includes:

-Pizza Stone

-Gourmet Pizza Cookbook

-Pizza Paddle

-Pizza Cutter

Here is all you have to do:

Leave a comment here on the blog telling us your favorite pizza toppings! 

It’s that easy!  One lucky winner will be randomly selected in one week from today. Be sure to come back to see if YOU are the winner!

Official Rules

*Note: Comments need to be approved through WordPress. If you don’t see yours right away, don’t worry…I will get to it as soon as I can! Remember to leave a comment right here on the blog itself, not on one of the photos, or on our Facebook or Twitter pages. Thanks!