Busy Diva's Dinner Menu: 09/01/2012

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.

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Chicago Hot Dogs

While I'm not a huge fan of hot dogs in general, I will eat a good one. I like Hebrew National, Pearls, and Nathan's. Recently I heard that President Obama has a thing for Chicago dogs, and I decided to check it out. The last time I heard a president like grilled food, it was about Bill Clinton who liked his hamburgers with onions that had been marinating in Balsamic Vinegar. I was not led astray. This was a great tip.

Yet I was skeptical about a hot dog with all those vegetables. Boy, have I been missing out! This has been delicious and filling in a good way. Also, I did not know and still don't know what sport peppers are. I substituted pepperoncini peppers. Absolutely fabulous.

Chicago Hot Dog

1 all-beef hot dog (see above recommendations)

hot dog bun (I like wheat)

dijon mustard

dill relish

chopped onion

tomato slices

a few dill pickle slices

a few pepperoncini peppers

Taco Soup

This dish is quick, easy, and fabulous--everything cooking should be. You can whip this up in no time with ingredients mostly on hand.

Taco Soup

1 lb. ground beef

1/2 onion chopped

taco seasoning to taste

16 oz. tomato sauce

15 oz. diced tomatoes

1 cup corn

1 cup kidney beans

2 cups water

shredded cheese to taste

sour cream to taste

Fritos or Corn chips

Saute ground beef and onion.
Transfer mixture to large pot, draining fat as you go.
Add taco seasoning, tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, corn, and water.
Simmer for 20 minutes.
Serve up with sour cream, cheese, and Fritos!

Make it a meal: Serve soup with some nice bread.

Wine: Some sort of Spanish red would be lovely.