I *heart* Trader Joe's

I know it's Thanksgiving, and I have lots of yummy things to say about that, but I'll come back to that later.

Trader Joe's is what is on my mind now. Just back from seeing Burlesque with the fam, we needed a snack. Mom pulled out Soy Sesame Crackers from Trader Joe's and boursin cheese. YUM.

I almost feel guilty eating my mom's TJ spoils, since she doesn't have one nearby. For that matter, neither does Bertha, my aunt. Can you imagine? We should observe a moment of silence and pity for those poor souls who don't have easy access to that magical of stores.

My Trader Joe's Top 5

1. Soy Sesame Crackers
2. Cheese. Any and all cheese.
3. Sparkling pinot grigio. Not sure what it's called, but it has a screw off top, bubbles on the label, and it's $4.99. Need I say more?
4. Frozen green beans
5. Thin almond cookies. You can taste the butter. Mmmmm....

Chicken and Mashed Potato Quesadillas

This is a easy but yummy recipe that kids and adults will love! I first made these years ago, based on a menu item at a restaurant where I worked in college. Sounds a bit odd, but GREAT, and you can often make them with leftovers!

Chicken and Mashed Potato Quesadillas
From RedSky in Duck many moons ago

2-3 Chicken breasts, marinated in teryaki, cooked and shredded/chopped
Rosemary garlic mashed potatoes, or whatever kind you have leftover
Colby and pepperjack cheeses, sliced
Large flour tortillas

Spread the potatoes on slightly less than one half of the tortilla. Arrange chicken on top--it doesn't take a lot. Lay slices of colby and pepperjack cheese over that, and fold quesadilla over. Repeat until you are out of guts! Bake on a cookie sheet in the oven until cheese is melted and ingredients are warmed through. These will keep several days in the fridge unbaked, and I've even frozen them individually wrapped. Serve with salsa and sour cream. Enjoy!

I Almost Cried In Public

Since last winter, I've been not-so-patiently waiting for... drumroll, please... Trader Joe's beer bread mix. This moist and yummy treat is SO easy to make, and a super delicious addition to any fall or winter meal. One box of mix, one 12oz beer, mix together, throw in the oven topped with a little melted butter and 40 minutes later, HEAVEN.

Today was the third time since the weather started getting cool that I stopped in to TJ's with the express purpose of buying at least a dozen boxes of mix, only to be told it's been discontinued. WHAT!?! I nearly threw myself to the floor and stiffened my body, twisting and turning in the queen of all tantrums. I may have to write a letter to someone about this.

Worst of all, I've been talking about it and thinking about it for a year, and now, NO beer bread. Dammit. Anyone know of any other brands of beer bread, or recipes that may help hold off the fit that is welling up in my belly?