Candied Walnuts

Here is a super easy and fast recipe for making candied walnuts. I like to keep some of these on hand to throw into salads--adds such a yummy crunch!

2 c. walnut pieces
3/4 c. sugar
1/4 c. water

Mix all three ingredients in a glass dish that is at least 1 qt. Microwave on high in two minute increments, stirring after each, for 8 minutes or until sugar is caramelized. (This only took 6 minutes for me. Microwaves do vary.) Be careful, because they will burn, so if it is getting close but not quite there yet, only put it in for 15 or 30 seconds.

After microwaving, spread walnuts out on a cookie sheet sprayed with non-stick spray. Let cool completely (when I need them fast, I stick them in the fridge and they cool very fast), then break up into small pieces by hand. Store in an airtight container. Enjoy!

Keepin' It (a.k.a. Lettuce) Fresh!

I used to hate to buy lettuce. There are just two of us in our household that are big enough to eat lettuce. Well, I guess my two year old is big enough, but lettuce just isn't his thing yet. Anyway, because there are just two of us, it is absurd to use an entire head of lettuce in one meal. But...by the time I get around to using the other half of the head, I end up having to toss it in the trash!

Well, I believe I have discovered a way to end my lettuce woes. The other day, I washed the entire head of green leaf lettuce, and put it on a paper towel to absorb the excess water. After taking off the leaves I needed, I wrapped the rest of the head in the paper towels, stuck it back in the bag, and popped it back in the fridge. Lo and behold, when I went to get it out two or three days later, the lettuce looked even fresher and was crisper than when I brought it home from the store! HOORAY! I have repeated this since, and it has totally worked! Just make sure the paper towel is completely damp. I have only tried this on green leaf lettuce, but I'm guessing it works with all leafy lettuces. Someone will have to let me know if it works with iceburg.

Buttermilk Substitute

Rhonda left this comment on the post "Fail: Whole Wheat Pancakes". I thought I would post it here as it is an awesome tip.

"Here's a substitute if you don't have buttermilk: put 1 T of vinegar in a 1 cup measuring cup and then fill with milk. Let curdle for a few minutes and then add to recipe in place of 1 cup buttermilk."