No-cook Fresh Tomato Sauce with Pasta

This recipe is to die for!! It's perfect for the summer if you want something light! And it only took 10 minutes!! I seriously could make this every single day for lunch, it was that delicious!

2 lb. plum tomatoes (I used regular tomatoes, 2 medium)
1/4 c chopped fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp. chopped red onion (I used a whole onion, not a great idea unless you LOVE onion!)
1/2 c. Italian dressing
1/4 c. Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese.
1 lb. pasta, cooked & drained.

• Boil pasta (I used linguine)
• Cut up tomatoes, basil & onions.
• Add tomatoes, basil & onions to large bowl.
• Stir in dressing and cheese.
• Add pasta, toss lightly.

nice & slow chicken cacciatore

I've never made chicken cacciatore before and I was also looking for something I could just toss in the crockpot. I came across this recipe and decided to try it out. It wasnt okay, seemed a little bland. It needs something else, but I am not quite sure what. My husband liked it but also thought it was missing something.

1/4 c. Italian dressing
3 lb. chicken thighs & drumsticks
1/2 lb. fresh mushrooms
1.5 c. chopped onion
1/2 c. red pepper strips
1/2 c. green pepper strips
1 clove garlic
1 can (14.5oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. dried thyme leaves
3 c. instant white rice, uncooked.

• Heat dressing in large skillet on medium-high heat.
• Add chicken, in batches; cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until browned on both sides.
• Place mushrooms, onions, peppers, and garlic in slow cooker.
• Top with chicken.
• Combine tomatoes, salt & thyme; pour over ingredients in slow cooker.
• Cover with lid.
• Cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours (or on HIGH for 5 hours).
• Cook rice as directed on package.
  
• Serve chicken mixture over the rice.
  

I already scooped all the chicken out before I realized I didnt take a picture lol

30 Minute Chili

I had taken some hamburger out last night for my husband and I. I thought all day long about what to make with it since our pantry items were few and far between. I had contemplated meatballs but then realized I had no breadcrumbs. While browsing the pantry I came across Chili seasoning and decided, hey! I can make some quick chili! So here is my quick & easy 30 minute chili, which by the way tasted FABULOUS! Oh and I totally cheated by using store bought ingredients but what do you expect for 30 minutes?!

30 Minute Chili
1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
1 packet of Chili Seasoning
1 16oz jar of salsa
1 16oz can of pinto beans
1.5 C water

Shredded cheese & sour cream to top if desired.

• Brown beef in a pan & dry
• Add water, seasoning, salsa & pinto beans
• Simmer for 8-10 minutes
• Spoon into bowls and top with cheese & sour cream if desired

Enjoy!