Mmmm.... FALL

This last weekend, I got to share in the most delightful dinner party and I just had to share our culinary success with you. Our theme was Apples and each guest brought a dish that creatively used this autumnal staple. My mother and I created this main dish for the event and it felt like we were eating an expensive gourmet dinner. Enjoy!

Apple Gouda Chicken

Chicken breasts, boneless
Granny smith apples, thinly sliced
Smoked Gouda, sliced
white pepper

Carefully slice the chicken breast to create a deep pocket right in the center. Fill with apple and Gouda slices. Place stuffed breasts carefully into a baking dish and sprinkle with white pepper. Cover with foil and bake at 350 for approximately 45 minutes.

I know it sounds simple, but the best things usually are, don't you agree? The smoked Gouda gives the chicken a rich flavor that reminded me of bacon. All of this is well balanced with the apple and I promise you won't be disappointed. At the very least, you will feel like a real chef serving this to your guests. Let me know what you think!

Favorite fresh salads

Our family have all committed to lose weight together this winter and to that end, Shannon and I have decided to start posting our favorite "Light" recipes for all to enjoy. Salads seem like a good place to start. Here are two salad ideas to help you add a little green to your day.

Heather's "Everything In" Salad

Baby Spinach
Green Leaf lettuce
Shredded cabbage (I buy bagged coleslaw mix)
Sliced red onion
1 oz. Blue cheese crumbles 100 calories
1/4 c. Walnuts or Pecans 196 calories
1.5 oz. Dried Cranberries 140 calories

I top this with a sweet vinaigrette. My favorites are balsamic vin. or strawberry vinaigrette, but you can use the dressing of your choice and it is still a delicious salad. The blend of sweet and savory is simply delicious!

Total calories: 436 calories

Shannon's Grilled Chicken Salad

Lettuce (whichever kind you would like)
Carrots
Tomatos
Grilled Chicken Sliced ( I season it with Taco/fajita seasoning)
2 Boiled Eggs Diced
1/2 c. Cashews
1/2 c. Cheddar Cheese
1 c. Black Olives diced

Serve with light Italian Dressing.
Total Calories: 1390
serves 4
Calories per serving: 348