Diva Cooking 101

Divas cook gorgeous things that are fabulous enough to share with friends and family. They just don't cook much. Every diva needs a few, easy signature dishes to get by. Are you a diva cook?

Divas cook while listening to Billie Holiday, Muddy Waters, or the Rolling Stones.

Divas cook while sipping Champagne, Chardonnay, or a martini.

Divas cook with a feather boa draped around their shoulders.

While cooking, divas nibble gin-soaked olives or Champagne-saturated strawberries.

Divas cook while wearing an apron that says, "Tomorrow is another Chardonnay."

A diva's favorite breakfast is last night's appetizers.

Divas don't stress over particular amounts in any recipe. Glugs, plops, and handfuls are accurate enough.

Divas can cook with boas because diva recipes do not require many steps. Still, the food is fabulous.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Chicken Meatloaf Muffins

Theses darling meatloaves can be packed full of as many vegetables as you dare.  Throw them all in the mini-food processor or blender for less chunky pieces.  This part can even be done ahead of time and refrigerated.  I used half a red pepper, and an entire shallot.  Try green peppers and onions, sun-dried tomatoes and chives, or corn and green chilies. 

Another option is to serve them with a simple mushroom sauce:  1 can cream of mushroom soup, 1 dollop of sour cream, 2 splashes of wine all mixed and heated.  Make it all fat free and low sodium if you don't want to be chubby.  Of course, after that wine is open for the recipe, you might as well have a splash yourself.

Any way you make 'em, they are the perfect portion size.  Have one for dinner if you're dieting or already thin.  I had three!

Chicken Meatloaf Muffins

1 lb. ground chicken

1 egg

3/4 cup bread crumbs (whole wheat are nice)

2 splashes Worcestershire sauce

3 cloves garlic, chopped

1 small dollop tomato paste (I freeze dollops, then put them in a baggie for just such uses.)

vegetables (see above)

1 dash Allspice

3 dashes chili powder

Mix all ingredients together.
Smoosh mixture into muffin tins and bake at 350 degrees for approximately 35-45 minutes.

Make it a meal:  Serve with sauteed spinach and couscous. 

Wine:  Sauvignon Blanc