Snappy Gourmet
Fun food that's a snap to make! Original & creative recipes by Lisa Huff, an award winning amateur home chef. From healthy to sinful, recipes include such things as Mississippi Mudtini, Crunchy Chicken Stuffed Waffle Pops, & Buffalo Chicken Pasta...
About Lisa Huff & her Blog
What's a delicious no cook recipe?
What's a great breakfast for a special occasion?
Lisa's Answers
What's your favorite recipe for a dish that can be made ahead and frozen?
Lisa Huff
Caribbean Mango Chicken Burgers are one of my favorite meals to make ahead! I freeze the cooked patties individually in plastic wrap, then take out what I need later on, defrost the patties in the microwave, and they're ready to go! They're not only great as burgers, but also great crumbled over salads or crumbled into pitas for sandwiches,What is your favorite quick breakfast recipe?
Lisa Huff
I have a few quick breakfast recipes/tips that I love... 1) French Canadian Crepes - similar to pancakes, but crispy "lacey" edges! Ready in minutes! Recipe - http://snappygourmet.com/2011/08/04/french-canadian-breakfast-crepes/ 2) Mexican Sausage Cornbread Strata - Stratas are a great way to use up any meats, cheeses, veggies, bread, etc. you have around! They do take awhile to bake, but prep time is quick and easy and can be done the night before so you just have to put the dish in the oven in the morning. Stratas generally reheat well, so great to eat for a few days too. Recipe - http://snappygourmet.com/2011/07/12/mexican-sausage-cornbread-strata/ 3) Tip- I love making my favorite pancakes, waffles, and french toast in big batches then place on a single layer on a lined baking sheet (line with parchment paper, silpats, etc so they don't stick to the pan). Place the pan(s) in the freezer, then once the food is frozen, you can put the food in sealable bags and place in the freezer. By freezing everything in a single layer nothing will stick together when you combine it in the bag. Then you can take out what you need in the future and reheat in the microwave or toaster oven.What's your family's favorite easy crock pot recipe?
Lisa Huff
Mexican Style Chicken Chili is one of my family's favorite easy crock pot recipes. I love it because it's easy and full of vegetables, lean mean, and beans. They love it because it's full of flavor! Recipe- http://snappygourmet.com/2011/02/10/slow-cooker-mexican-style-chicken-chili/What's your family's favorite recipe for chicken or tofu?
Lisa Huff
One of my family's favorite chicken dish is Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese! I love it because I make it in a slow cooker and it doesn't take any additional pots, pans, or cooking. You throw in some choppped chicken, veggies, uncooked pasta, cheese, and a few other ingredients and it's ready in a couple of hours! So easy and delicious!!! Recipe: http://snappygourmet.com/2012/02/23/slow-cooker-buffalo-chicken-macaroni-and-cheese/What's an easy, kid-friendly way to decorate cupcakes?
Lisa Huff
I love to use a variety of toppings to decorate my cupcakes. If my kids are helping me decorate, I love to put a variety of toppings in small bowls, paper cupcake liners, or even a cupcake pan. Some of the toppings I like to use are crushed cookies, chocolate chips (or any kind of chip), candy, sprinkles, mini marshmallows, and crushed ice cream cones. I also like to put out some healthy options such as nuts, fruit (small berries or chopped fruit works great!), chopped graham crackers, pretzels, or even goldfish crackers. Resealable plastic bags full of different colors of frosting are also fun and easy. Just clip the corner of the bag to use to decorate and just throw it out when you're done so cleanup is a breeze! I also like to make tall topped cupcakes such as my Green Velvet Dipped Cupcakes. You can use any cupcake recipe. Top the cupcake with frosting, then dip in melted chocolate or candy coating. While the chocolate or candy coating is still warm, decorate with your favorite toppings mentioned above. Recipe: http://snappygourmet.com/2011/03/10/green-velvet-st-patricks-dipped-cupcakes/What's a great treat for spring or Easter? (Please include a link!)
Lisa Huff
When I think of spring, I think of strawberries! After a long winter, I love snacking, baking, and cooking with fresh strawberries! Two of my favorite strawberries treats are twists on the classic strawberry shortcake: 1) Dark Chocolate Strawberry Shortcakes with Amaretto Cream http://snappygourmet.com/2011/05/04/dark-chocolate-strawberry-shortcakes-with-amaretto-cream/ This treat was inspired by strawberry shortcake but this version combines dark chocolate shortcakes, fresh strawberries, and a quick and easy cream filling flavored with Amaretto. But don't worry, the Amaretto, can easily be left out if you prefer. 2) Mini Strawberry Shortcake Poppers http://snappygourmet.com/2011/06/14/mini-strawberry-shortcake-poppers/ This snack is also a twist on strawberry shortcake. These Mini Strawberry Shortcake Poppers are bite-size with a secret ingredient that will literally make them "pop" in your mouth!! Hope you enjoy!What's your favorite easy recipe for an Easter or Passover meal?
Lisa Huff
For Easter this year, I'll be making some of my Cake Batter Truffles. No baking and less than 10 ingredients! These are not your standard "cake balls" with precooked cake crumbs and frosting. These truffles are more like candy and taste like cake batter coated with chocolate or candy melts. You can shape the truffles into the shape of an Easter egg, make them round, or shape them as desired. You can also coat the truffles in a variety of colors and vary the sprinkles inside for a completely custom look! Recipe: http://snappygourmet.com/2011/03/29/cake-batter-truffles/What's your advice on setting a food budget?
Lisa Huff
My advice for setting a food budget and sticking to it is to have a plan. Plan out your meals for the week and stick to it when going to the grocery store. Before making my plan for the week I like to look at my grocery store's ad and see what's on sale and plan around that. If there are items we use regularly on sale, I will also stock up a bit. When "stocking up" be sure to check out the expiration dates and make sure you'll be able to use the products before they expire.What's your favorite muffin recipe?
Lisa Huff
My favorite muffin recipe usually depends on the day and mood I'm in, BUT if I absolutely had to pick one and only one (really only ONE??), I would pick my Mini Caramel Streusel Cakes. Heavenly mini muffins in just a few bites! Oh my, I'm getting hungry! They are a combination of a coffee cake and a muffin and they're perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, snack, ore even a tea party. So many possibilities, so little time! They're made with a cake mix, have a hidden caramel center, and they're topped with streusel! Everything tastes better with a little streusel, don't you think??? They're baked in a mini muffin pan so they take no time at all and I bet they'll be gobbled up in no time at all as well! RECIPE: http://snappygourmet.com/2011/03/21/mini-caramel-streusel-cakes/What's your favorite salad recipe that's perfect for Spring or Summer?
Lisa Huff
My Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad is one of my favorite Spring/Summer salads!!! It is full of my favorite "buffalo" flavors including fresh chopped veggies, chopped chicken, blue cheese and hot sauce, then tossed with pasta! It's quick and easy to make! It's also great as a side dish or entree and perfect for summer potlucks and picnics! http://snappygourmet.com/2011/08/10/buffalo-chicken-pasta-salad/What's an easy recipe a babysitter can make?
Lisa Huff
If you're looking for a few quick easy meals that any babysitter [or maybe even your husband :) ] could handle here are a couple of ideas... What kid doesn't love breakfast food even if it's for lunch or dinner?! Here's a twist on the classic pancakes, French Canadian Crepes. They're not like usual crepes either. These crepes are just as easy to make as pancakes but they have a slightly different flavor and texture. They also have a fun crispy edge that the kids love! Top with some maple syrup or your favorite fruit and you have a fun and easy meal that any kid would love! Recipe - http://snappygourmet.com/2011/08/04/french-canadian-breakfast-crepes/ Maybe "dipping" is more your kids style. If that's the case, how about quick and easy French Dip sandwiches. With the help of some deli roast beef and beef broth, you can have French Dip sandwiches in minutes! Recipe - http://snappygourmet.com/2011/03/24/snappy-dinner-french-dip/Can you share an easy, crowd-pleasing birthday party cake or cupcake recipe? (please include a link to a photo!)
Lisa Huff
I love cupcakes and coming up with new ideas and flavor combinations! A party never seems complete without a little cake! My absolute favorite cupcake that is always a hit with the kids and adults is my S'mores Dipped Cupcakes Recipe. Perfect for any kind of party! A great cupcake for a tea party theme (great for a little girl's birthday party too!) is my Amber Maharani Teacup Cakes. They are made with tea right in the batter and frosting and the cake is baked in actual tea cups. They definitely give the word "cupcake" a whole new meaning! Lastly, for the adult crowd, my Pumpkin Ale Cupcakes with Streusel Cream Cheese Frosting are always popular. A little beer in the batter for a very subtle taste and these cupcakes are topped with a cream cheese frosting and crunchy streusel! Recipes- S'mores Dipped Cupcakes: http://snappygourmet.com/2011/05/25/chunky-s%E2%80%99mores-dipped-cupcakes/Can you recommend a great summer snack to feed kids on break or to pack for days at camp? (Please include a link to the recipe.)
Lisa Huff
Peanut Butter "Mousse" Strawberry Parfaits are special, but healthy treats, that are perfect for a snack or even breakfast that the whole family will enjoy! They only have 5 ingredients and less than 200 calories each. These parfaits are made with fat free Greek Yogurt so they'll also help fill everyone up so that no one is coming back in 5 minutes asking for another snack! The kids will think they're getting a special "treat" but you'll know they're getting a great healthy snack! RECIPE: http://snappygourmet.com/2012/03/20/peanut-butter-mousse-strawberry-parfaits/From peach pies and berry cobbler to lemon shortcake and watermelon popsicles, fruity desserts are perfect for summer. Please share your favorite fruit-based dessert, and include a link to the recipe and photo.
Lisa Huff
I love all the fresh fruit in the grocery stores this time of year! Nothing beats homemade desserts with fresh sweet fruit in the summer! I have 3 recipes that are perfect for summer: INDIVIDUAL STRAWBERRY COBBLERS: Made in individual ramekins so they don't take long to bake and everyone gets their own! I also cut back on the sugar compared to most recipes but you will never know the difference! BERRIES & CREAM PATRIOTIC CUPCAKES: These red, white, and blue cupcakes are perfect for 4th of July or any summer event! They are piled high with a cream cheese frosting and strawberries and/or blueberries, dipped in white chocolate or candy melts, then decorated with red, white, and blue! MINI STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE POPPERS: These individual bite-size versions of strawberry shortcakes are always a hit! No utensils needed because you can just pick them up and pop them in your mouth! There's also a secret ingredient that will make these cuties "pop" in your mouth!What's a family-friendly recipe that would be perfect for a summer or Fourth of July gathering -- whether it's a grilled dish, a simple side or festive treat? (Please share a link to a photo)
Lisa Huff
What's 4th of July without a little ice cream?? My Red, White, & Blue Velvet Ice Cream Sandwiches are the perfect red, white, and blue treat to celebrate the holiday! They're a twist on the classic red velvet with a red velvet brownie, cream cheese ice cream, and fresh strawberries and blueberries! RECIPE: http://snappygourmet.com/2012/06/13/red-white-blue-velvet-ice-cream-sandwiches-plus-wilton-giveaway/What's a great finger food that your kids love? Please include a link.
Lisa Huff
Mini Pretzel Rolls with Bacon Cheddar Butter Spread is always a fave with my kids!! No need to make homemade dough for these. I use premade dough from the grocery store to speed up the process. These are a great snack or even a fun appetizer! Or cut them in half and make mini sandwiches. Recipe: http://snappygourmet.com/2011/11/16/mini-pretzel-rolls-with-bacon-cheddar-butter-spread/What's one of your favorite one-pot recipes? (Soup, casseroles, etc.)
Lisa Huff
I love to cook, but hate to clean! One-pot meals are perfect for my family. One of my favorite soups anytime of the year is my Shrimp & Veggie Egg Drop Soup. It can not only be made in one pot, it can be made in about 15-30 minutes! Recipe: http://snappygourmet.com/2011/02/15/shrimp-veggie-egg-drop-soup-quick-easy/Help us create the ultimate Western-themed birthday party! Please share an idea for a game, recipe, party favor, decoration, etc. that's perfect for a Cowboy/Cowgirl party. Include a link to a photo if you have one!
Lisa Huff
As far as recipes, I have some suggestions that any kid or adult cowboy/cowgirl would love! Sweet & Spicy Root Beer BBQ Pork - This is an easy make ahead dish so you can spend more time with your guests. Both the pork and Root Beer BBQ sauce can be made ahead and both reheat very well! The pork is gerat on its own or in mini or regular buns with a little premade coleslaw! http://snappygourmet.com/2011/04/19/sweet-spicy-root-beer-bbq-pork/ Stuffed BBQ Cupcakes - a fun savory twist on cupcakes with pork stuffed in a corn muffing and topped with pimento cheese. Perfect in mini size too! http://snappygourmet.com/2012/05/17/bbq-cupcakes/ Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad - One of my most popular recipes! This past salad is great to make ahead of time. It's also great hot or cold, with or without the chicken, and perfect for a side or main dish! It's a very versatile dish! http://snappygourmet.com/2011/08/10/buffalo-chicken-pasta-salad/What's a healthy lunchbox menu your child loves?
Lisa Huff
For part of their lunch (or snack) I let my kids create their own popcorn flavors. One of their favorites is this Italian Brown Paper Bag Popcorn. I make a big batch then divide it up into small bags and it's ready to go for the week! Italian Brown Paper Bag Popcorn: http://snappygourmet.com/2012/07/10/italian-brown-paper-bag-popcorn/ Another favorite is this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad. It can easily be made with whole wheat/grain pasta and it's full of protein, veggies, and flavor! Everyone enjoys it hot or cold! Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad: http://snappygourmet.com/2011/08/10/buffalo-chicken-pasta-salad/What's your favorite muffin, scone, or bread recipe? Please share a link to the recipe and a photo if you have one.
Lisa Huff
One of my favorite bread recipes is this quick and easy Italian Beer Bread with Sundried Tomato Butter! No yeast, no kneading, no waiting for the dough to rise! http://snappygourmet.com/2012/01/10/italian-beer-bread-sundried-tomato-butter/What's your favorite pie recipe for fall? Please share a link to a photo!
Lisa Huff
How about a pie in cocktail form??? My Key Lime Pie Fizztini is a fun drink for the adults and easy to make! It's a twist on a sherbet punch I used to have as a kid. It's great in martini glasses or make a big batch in a punch bowl. http://snappygourmet.com/2012/05/02/key-lime-pie-fizztini/Nothing says fall like the flavor of cinnamon! What's one of your favoritie recipes that has cinnamon in it? Please share a link with a photo.
Lisa Huff
A little cinnamon schnapps is the perfect addition ito these Pumpkin Cheesecaketini cocktails! These cocktails are full of fall flavor and perfect for the upcoming holidays, parties, or special events.What's a great recipe that uses cranberries?
Lisa Huff
This Yogurt Broccoli Salad is a twist on the usual broccoli salad. This salad would be perfect for the holidays and the best part is it can be made ahead and no cooking!!! It has broccoli, nuts, onions, and of course cranberries. Greek yogurt is the base for a simple dressing.What's your family's favorite Thanksgiving treat? Please link to your recipe.
Lisa Huff
Thanksgiving is typically all about pumpkin and apples in our house. So here's a fun twist on pumpkin treats for the adults, Pumpkin Cheesecaketini. The perfect cocktail for Thanksgiving! http://snappygourmet.com/2011/09/23/pumpkin-cheesecaketini/ Another treat that could easily be made without alcohol, are my Pumpkin Ale Cupcakes with Streusel Cream Cheese Frosting. Everything tastes better with a little streusel and these cupcakes are no exception. http://snappygourmet.com/2011/10/17/pumpkin-ale-cupcakes-with-streusel-cream-cheese-frosting/ I love making "individual" treats and my kids also love having their own. These Apple Mug Cobblers are the perfect treat for kids or adults. I put a little Amaretto in these, but you can easily substitute. http://snappygourmet.com/2011/11/02/amaretto-caramel-apple-mug-cobblers/What's a great, freezable dish to bring to a new mom? Please share a link to your recipe.
Lisa Huff
Since many new moms tend to get a lot of pasta dishes, I try to do a few other dishes that I think they'd enjoy. I like to make my (slow cooker) Cranberry Chipotle BBQ Pulled Pork along with some rolls. I like to put the pork in small sealable bags so that it can easily be frozen and defrosted in small batches. The meat is great in sandwiches, enchiladas, or just by itself. http://snappygourmet.com/2012/11/29/slow-cooker-cranberry-chipotle-bbq-pulled-pork-sliders/ I also like to make stratas that are great for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner! One of my favorites is my Mexican Sausage Cornbread Strata. It's something a little different and not the usual freezer meal. http://snappygourmet.com/2011/07/12/mexican-sausage-cornbread-strata/What's your go-to meal for a romantic dinner at home, after the kids are asleep?
Lisa Huff
Mediterranean Feta & Shrimp Pasta is one of my husband's favorite dinners. Although my kids love it too, it's a nice romantic dinner for my husband and I and ready in no time!What's your favorite food to make or eat on St. Patrick's Day? Do you have a tried and true Irish recipe? Please share a link to your recipe, with a photo.
Lisa Huff
Not exactly an Irish recipe, but a fun St. Patrick's Day recipe nonetheless.. Mint Chip Cookietini! A fun green cocktail perfect for the holiday!|
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