Cinnamon Sugared Pecans

I can't remember a Christmas that I didn't make these.  I have such a hard time staying out of them; the sweet crunch is like a magnet, pulling me to the bowl every time I'm in the kitchen!

I don't have a story or specific memory to go along with this recipe, they have simply been a part of my Christmas baking for a long time.  They have been enjoyed by many and the recipe has been shared numerous times.  They are great to take to work for a holiday celebration.  They would also make a great hostess gift for all of those holiday gatherings.  And let's not forget our co-workers or employees, they will appreciate your thoughtfulness!

As I mentioned in my earlier post for Sugar Cookies, this recipe is perfect for using those leftover egg  whites you have after you make cookies!  

I get the 2 pound bags of pecans from Costco, if you want to make a smaller quantity, just divide the recipe in half and you'll be all set.  Trust me though, with all the nibbling and gifting, you'll need to make all 2 pounds!  

Have a Holly Jolly and Nutty Christmas!

Low Carb Strawberry "Pretzel" Salad

Crunchy, salty, creamy, sweet.  All these flavors come together in the traditional Strawberry Pretzel Salad.

I've taken the traditional recipe and tinkered with it to turn it into a low carb delight!
There are several steps, so don't be intimidated, just be patient and soon you'll have a dessert that is pretty darn close to the original.

Rosemary Roasted Mixed Nuts

I must confess that this week's blog entry has been a bit of a struggle.  I have had no inspiration this week.
Maybe it is the heat, maybe because it has been a busy week with little time to ponder recipes,  

A friend suggested snacks, so snacks is the topic of the week!

I enjoy nuts on my salads, they give it an extra crunch factor and add flavor.
Since it is so hot and there seems to be no end in sight and salads are going to be a frequent dinner or lunch option, I thought I'd fix some roasted nuts that are a little extra special.  I have a couple of really nice rosemary bushes in my patio garden so I decided to make some "dressed up" mixed nuts.

This recipe results in nuts that are sweet and savory all rolled into one.  The nuts are good for eating by themselves as well as sprinkled atop a bed of mixed greens.  If you are really into planning ahead, they also would make a perfect homemade gift for Christmas gift exchanges, or a housewarming or hostess gift.  Just pop some into a pretty container and you have an instant gift....that is if they all don't disappear first!

You will be tempted to start tasting as soon as you pull them out of the oven, but muster up your resistance and let them cool before you have your first handful.  The nuts need the cooling time to crisp back up and regain their crunch.