Happy New Year Tasting

More Gift Ideas from Wildtree

Who is left on your gift-giving list... a teacher? Co-worker? Name exchange? Hair dresser? Babysitter? Wildtree has something for everyone, starting at only $14.


I've got a couple of appetizer blends with a snowman spreader attached, already wrapped here at the house, for only $6. Stop by!

Don't bring the standard bottle of wine to your holiday gatherings. Bring a gift from Wildtree, blends and oils they will use again and again and appreciate more than ever.

Blend Bundles - a Great Gift Idea!

Let Wildtree take away some of your holiday hustle and bustle.
With one click of the mouse (an email to me) you can take care of anyone on your list that enjoys eating! What better gift than several all natural culinary blends, to help someone you love eat healthier AND save time in the kitchen. Some bundles are just for fun like the Movie Lovers or Death by Chocolate. But others? Just plain practical and sure to be appreciated.

If you are a culinary club member, you can save 20% on every purchase. If not, join the Culinary Club this month and I'll throw in free shipping to your home! Must order by December 10th to qualify.

Rise and Shine Breakfast
$29 (Culinary Club Members: $24.80)
Buttermilk Pancakes
Blueberry Pancake Syrup
Scrumptious Scones
Strawberry & Dark Chocolate Jam

Christmas Morning Celebration
$30 (CCM: $26.40)
Pumpkin Pancakes
Apple Cranberry Jam
Whole Wheat Cranberry Orange Bread
Classic Cocoa

Holiday Party Winners
$28 (CCM: $22.40)
Wildly Delicious White Bean Dip
Guacamole Seasoning
Smoked Mozzarella & Tomato
Garlic Galore

Popcorn Trio
$30 (CCM: $26.40)
Simply Sweet Popcorn Seasoning
Spicy Cheddar Popcorn Seasoning
White Cheddar Popcorn Seasoning

South of the Border Sensations
$28 (CCM: $24.80)
Guacamole Seasoning
Fiesta Salsa
Fajita Seasoning
Taco Seasoning


Slow Cooker Meals
$25 (CCM: $21.40)
Beef Stew Sauce
Wicked Good Slow Cooker Sauce
Southwest Stew

Comfort Food
$29 (CCM: $23.20)
Robust Tortilla Soup
Just Like Mom's Meatloaf
Mama Mia’s Minestrone Soup Mix
Alfredo Extraordinaire

Pizza Pizza
$28 (CCM: $24.80)
So Quick & Easy Pizza Dough
So Quick & Easy Whole Wheat Pizza Dough
Hearty Spaghetti Sauce
Scampi Blend

Death by Chocolate
$24 (CCM: $21.20)
Molten Lava Cake
O’ So Heavenly Brownie Mix
Heavenly Chocolate Mousse Mix

Seasonal Products Discontinued Soon

The following seasonal products will not be available after January 1st. Order now for all your holiday baking needs.

• Whole Grain Pancakes
• Gingerbread Cake
  
• Pumpkin Pancakes
• Mulling Spice
• Orange Cranberry Bread
• Apple Cranberry Jam
• Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake
• Rich Dark Chocolate Fudge Sauce
• Cranberry Spice Blend
• Pumpkin Bread

Grapeseed Oil for Christmas? Why Not?!

This Christmas Wildtree has something for everyone on your list. And you don't even have to leave the house to get it. Lots of folks have ordered grapeseed oil to give as gifts, and why not? It's a great way to show someone how much you love them by giving them the healthiest, best-tasting cooking oil available. Any of these items can be drop shipped anywhere in the U.S. and Wildtree will even include a free gift message with your order.

Order by December 5th and save 10% on your purchase!

Get Ready for the Holidays!

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and many of us are starting to "save the date" for those holiday parties. Need some easy appetizers sure to wow your friends and family? Wildtree has so many good ones to choose from - and as simple to make as shake and stir. Please visit the appetizer recipe section of my website for inspiration. I have "zip packs" for one time use, available for $6 each or 3 for $15, perfect for those quick-grab-and-make last minute needs. Or whip up this super easy and delicious dip and serve with pretzels or crackers.

1 block cream cheese, softened 1 1/2 teaspoons Wildtree Scampi Blend 1 1/2 teaspoons Wildtree Onion and Chive Blend 1 tablespoon sour cream 1/4 cup beer 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Mix first three ingredients with a whisk until well blended. Add sour cream and beer mixing slowly as you go. Start mixing in the shredded cheese 1/2 cup at a time. You can add a tiny bit more beer if it seems too thick. Refrigerate for a half hour. Serve with pretzels.

Happy New!

Take a look at the new products Wildtree has in store for us in January, 2011! YUM. Save the date: January 6th - my house to try them out! Details to come.

Cheesy Cheddar Soup Mix 4.2 oz box
Sweet Onion Spread 11.1 oz jar
Savory Sofrito Cooking Base 9.6 oz jar
Perfect Pizza Sauce Seasoning 3 oz jar
Chicken Bouillon Soup Base 4 oz jar
Vegetable Bouillon Soup Base 4.1 oz jar
Beef Bouillon Soup Base 3.75 oz jar
Creamy Ranch Dressing & Dip Mix 3.75 oz box
Create-a-Cookie Mix 17.85 oz box
Sunday Morning Cinnamon Rolls 17.9 oz box
Healthy & Hearty Lentil Soup Mix 5.14 oz box

Get 'em While You Can!

Once again it is time for Wildtree to discontinue a few items to make room for new ones. Order now before it’s too late! Some of these, like Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette and Sun-Dried Tomato & Horseradish I am SAD to see go. But knowing Wildtree, they will be replaced with equally fabulous blends.


Items no longer available after January 1, 2011.

• Zippy Cocktail Sauce
• Vanilla Frosting
• Rustic Eggplant Caponata
• Chocolate Frosting
• Yellow Cake Mix
• Korma Curry Rub
• Chimichurri Blend
• Spicy Dry Rub
• Peachy Keen BBQ
• Focaccia Bread
• Buffalo Wing Marinade
• Sun-Dried Tomato & Horseradish Blend
• Spanish Rice Seasoning
• Raspberry Peach Sauce
• Toni’s Over the Top
• Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
• Parmesan Rice Seasoning
• Blasted Bloody Mary Mix
• Banana BBQ Sauce
• Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
• Cilantro Lime Rice Seasoning

Halloween Treats

We make a traditional "Eye Ball Cake" every Halloween, a big, round chocolate cake with chocolate icing, covered with candies and icing creatively utilized to look like monster eyeballs. This year we are trying some new holiday recipes. These would be so great for trick or treat bags or a Halloween themed party.


Halloween Cake Pops

Yield: about 50 cake pops

• 1 package Wildtree Yellow Cake Mix
• 1 ½ cups Wildtree Vanilla Frosting, prepared
• 2 pounds chocolate and/or vanilla candy coating
• Halloween sprinkles, candy, chopped nuts, coconut, and edible markers
• Lollipop sticks
• 1 large Styrofoam block

Prepare cake mix following package directions and bake as directed in a 9x13-inch cake pan. Let cake cool completely. Break cooled cake into crumbs (you shouldn’t see any large pieces of cake). Stir in frosting and roll into 1 1/2 -inch balls(about 50). Melt the candy coating in a microwave safe bowl, following package directions. Dip a ½-inch of the tip of the lollipop sticks in candy then insert into cake balls and place on a wax paper lined baking sheet. Freeze for 15 minutes to set. Dip pops in melted candy to coat and decorate as desired. Press the sticks in the Styrofoam block to dry. (Let candy dry completely before drawing on faces with an edible marker.)




Ghoulish Brain Dip - Serves 10

• 2 avocados
• ½ cup Wildtree Roasted Tomatillo Sauce
• ¾ cup canned black beans
• Salt
• 1 large head cauliflower
• 1 (9 ounce) bag blue corn tortilla chips

Slice the avocados in half. Remove the pits and scoop the avocado flesh out of the skin into a bowl. Mash with a fork and stir in the Tomatillo Sauce, and black beans. Season with salt to taste. Remove the leaves and trim the stem of the cauliflower. Cut florets from the top of the cauliflower until there’s a hollow space for the dip. If the cauliflower starts to fall apart, hold it together with toothpicks. Place “brain” on a large platter and fill with the avocado dip. Serve with tortilla chips.




Icky Sticky Popcorn Balls Serves 18

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 1/3 cups water
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 18 cups popped corn
• 1 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1 cup pistachios
• 3 tablespoons Wildtree Popcorn Seasoning of your choice

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, syrup, and vinegar. Cook over high heat until mixture reaches 255 degrees F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer. Meanwhile toast pumpkin seeds in a skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes or until golden. Add pumpkin seeds and pistachios to the popcorn. Once syrup mixture has reached 255 degrees F, pour over
popped corn, sprinkle with Popcorn Season, and toss gently to coat. When mixture is cool enough to handle, press popcorn into 3-inch balls with lightly greased hands. Cool completely on waxed paper.




Fiery Eyeballs Serves 12

Chicken Meatballs:

• 2 pounds ground chicken breast
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1-2 tablespoons Wildtree Hot Chili Pepper & Garlic Blend
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can or jar of pitted black olives

Sauce:

• 1 28 ounce can of crushed tomato
• 1 tablespoon Wildtree Hearty Spaghetti Sauce Blend
• 1 tablespoon Wildtree Hot Chili Pepper & Garlic Blend

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a large rimmed baking sheet. Combine all the chicken meatball ingredients except theolives in a large bowl, and set aside. Form eyeball sized balls with the chicken and shove an olive into the center of each one.Make it look as much like an eyeball as you can. Arrange finished eyeballs on the baking sheet and bake until cooked through (165 degrees F), about 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile combine ingredients for the sauce in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until sauce is bubbling. Serve the eyeballs over the sauce.

Want a Free Loaf of Pumpkin Bread?

I love Martha and reference her recipes and crafts a good bit.But Wildtree has her beat on this one. Fifteen minutes prep time for her pumpkin bread, five for ours. Next to same ingredients - and tastes every bit as good!

Get a box FREE for hosting a party with me this month or referring me to a friend who hosts. See for yourself how EASY home-made can be!

Specials for October

This Cacciatore Sauce is divine! Hard to believe it is this simple to make such a good, hearty meal - see recipe on flyer - (um, open...pour...bake.)


We have made several good pizzas lately - I have thrown some dough in an iron skillet for a deep dish for us "big folk" ...and of course rolled a skinny cheese out for the kids. Keeping ready made sauce in the fridge makes it a breeze.

Apples, Apples Everywhere!

School and Fall are definitely in the air! I have been slammed with teaching the boys and have been a bit slack on posting. But I am never too busy to enjoy the crisp change in the air, the leaves starting to fall and the fact that it is apple season! I love Autumn - and we have yearly traditions of picking fresh apples from the orchards and attending local apple festivals and of course, cooking, baking and eating every variety of apple we can get our hands on. Enjoy these easy and delicious recipes using Wildtree's Pumpkin Cheesecake Blend.

Apple Crisp

• 5 McIntosh apples, peeled and sliced
• 2 tsp Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Blend
• 1/3 cup butter, softened
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup flour

Arrange the apples in a buttered 8x8 inch glass baking dish. Sprinkle with the Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Blend. Combine the butter, sugar and flour in a bowl and mix well. Spread over the apples. Bake at 350ºF for 30-45 minutes or until the apples are soft and the topping is golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature with ice cream or whipped cream.

Applesauce Cinnamon Muffins

• 1 cup wheat germ
• 1 1/2 cups unbleached flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Blend
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup date sugar (or brown, if preferred)
  
• 1/3 cup Natural Grapeseed Oil
  
• 1 cup applesauce
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 425ºF. In large bowl combine wheat germ, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, spices and Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Blend. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with date sugar, grapeseed oil, applesauce and milk. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until just moistened. Stir in nuts. Spoon into greased muffin tins. Mix 2 teaspoons of sugar and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and sprinkle on top of muffins before baking. Bake for 15-17 minutes.

Apple Slaw

• 1 pkg. Coleslaw Blend
• 1 bottle Wildberry Dressing
• 2 medium Granny Smith or any tart apple, cubed
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
  
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients; toss to mix. Add dressing to taste.

Crock Pot Apple Butter

• 8 cups of unsweetened apple sauce
• 3 cups honey
• 4 TBs. Cranberry Spice Blend
  

Combine all ingredients in a crock pot and cook uncovered on high for nine hours. No need to stir.

The Many Uses of Grapeseed Oil

Are you finding it hard to believe you ever cooked with out Grapeseed Oil? What a difference it has made in our meals in taste and convenience. And it is so good, for so many things! See some cooking tips below.

And if eating Grapeseed Oil is not good enough - did you know it is used in many high end skin care products because of it's powerful antioxidant and anti-aging benefits? Try a few drops of the natural on your face at night, especially under the eyes. Click on the article above to read - natural chemicals in grape seeds have been found to help prevent skin cancer! Could there be some redemption for all of those iodine and baby oil days of my youth??

• Sauté or steam any vegetable with any of the oils! Just a little gives a lot of flavor in an instant - AND - you retain the flavor of the vegetables because they cook so quickly.

• Use the Natural Grapeseed Oil for any baking recipe.

• All oils are good tossed on any pasta or rice - can season as you choose with sea salt, garlic, pepper or any Wildtree blend.

• Grapeseed Oil makes a super marinade for any fish, chicken, or steak before grilling or cooking. Or just brush it on, right before cooking, if no time to marinate.

• Use the Butter Flavored for any recipe that calls for butter (1/3 cup equals one stick.)

• Grapeseed Oil is great as a light, flavorful salad dressing - mix with red wine vinegar, balsamic or for greater ease, the new Mediterranean Balsamic already has the vinegar in it.

• Drizzle Basil Pesto or Roasted Garlic oil over fresh sliced tomatoes with basil leaves.

• Use it on pizza, drizzle it as a base or at the end of cooking.

• Use for a stir-fry since it will cook at very high temperature without smoking or burning.

• Use the Butter Flavor for breakfast dishes; pancakes, French toast, eggs, crepes.

• Use the Butter ANYWHERE you would ordinarily use butter! Healthier and tastes every bit as good.

• Use as bread dippers - especially the European Garlic or Tuscan or new Mediterranean Balsamic.

• Or - brush any of them on bread, sprinkle with cheese and toast in oven for a great garlic bread.

Well, the website looks good.....

Wildtree just updated all their reps.' websites with a new look. And I must say it's a cleaner, more user friendly site than it was before. However, I just discovered that most of the hyperlinks on my blog to my website are not pointing to the page I had them pointing to, before the update. Might take me a while to correct them all.

Just giving you a heads up in case you click for Pacific Fusion Sauce and get sent to a "Thanks for contacting me" page......

A Few New Product Recipes

Here are a few things I've done with the new products. More to come with others, soon!

Chicken Cacciatore – Add chicken, andouille sausage, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and red pepper chunks with the Caccitore Sauce and let it simmer in crock pot. Incredible. This sauce is also wonderful simmered and served over poached or fried eggs on toast with a side of bacon or ham.

Thai Sesame Sun Butter Sauce is just an incredible marinade for stir fry, or just pour it over noodles for a quick and easy dinner. Tastes better than any sauce I've had from a Thai restaurant - and peanut free.

European Dipping Oil, Mediterranean Balsamic – Awesome on chicken before cooking. Truly awesome on ANY meat, fish, veggies, shish kabobs. Use it as a sub sauce, on pasta salad, crusty bread dip or create a salad with fresh tomato, fresh basil, fresh mozzerella and drizzle on top. Divine.

Tzatziki – Amazing marinade for chicken kabobs, and then make a dip with sour cream for dipping. Great as a tortilla chip dip, and as a spread for pita sandwiches. Pair it with the new Falafel for true a true Greek feast! Also good paired with anything cooked with the Thai Sun Butter Sauce.

Spicy Island Chutney – Great on fish, great on chicken – but absolutely OVER THE TOP heated up and poured over ice cream. Also, fabulous with cream cheese and crackers.

The Popcorn Seasonings will make a perfect gift – wrap one or all of them up in a gift basket with some gourmet popcorn, gift certificate to a movie rental place, and you’re good to go with a quick and easy gift. I absolutely love these seasonings - and the cheese ones are great for all sorts of recipes where you want to add a little all natural cheese flavor. Shake Spicy Cheddar over steamed broccoli or rice. Use in scrambled eggs or homemade biscuits. We shake the Sweet one over bagels or toast with a little cinnamon.

The White Bean Dip is so delicious! I use it on everything, veggies, sandwich spread, as a chip dip. It's a nice change from hummus.

I am surprised how much I love the Carrot Cake because I have a recipe I am quite proud of and use a good bit BUT it is time consuming - and well, Wildtree did it again. FAST, EASY and DARN GOOD. Nice dense cake with real carrots and cream cheese icing. Just love it.

Customer Specials for August

Adobo is a delicious blend of Latin American spices that tastes great on anything! Chicken, shrimp, potatoes, all vegetables, shake on bread brushed with Garlic Grapeseed Oil then toast.

Roasted Tomatillo is the perfect sauce for all of your Mexican dishes, enchiladas, quesadillas and even as a slow cooker sauce for chicken and pork. It's also great on tacos, burritos, eggs, grilled fish and tortilla chips.

YUMMY NEW!!

Time to kick it into high gear, fall cooking is just around the corner and Wildtree did it again! Fourteen FABULOUS new products, all delicious, all natural, all easy to use. Stop by the house Sunday, Aug. 1 from 4-6 p.m. for a Try 'em Before you Buy 'em casual tasting - no RSVP necessary.

Mixed Greens Salad with Pecans, Cranberries, and Goat Cheese

I need to post a snapshot of the beautiful garden beds my husband built me for Mother's Day and the bounty of goodness they have brought us this summer. We are eating so much healthier, with vegetables fresh from the garden. And I am CRAZY MAD about Wildtree's Wildberry Dressing! So good on cucumbers, greens, cabbage, chicken, carrots - you name it!

Here's a wonderful, healthy salad that is light in calories and rich in flavor. To create a full meal, saute shrimp or chicken in Natural Grapeseed Oil with a tablespoon of Garlic Galore Blend and add to top of salad.

Serves 4

* 1 bag mixed greens
* 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
* 1/4 cup cranberries, dried
* 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese
* 1/4 cup Wildtree Wildberry Dressing


Combine the greens with dressing and toss to coat. Sprinkle pecans, cranberries, and goat cheese on top.

Bayou Slaw

For all those grillin' adventures, try this "slaw with a kick" as your side! Great on top of burgers or as a side salad with corn on the cob and baked beans. The secret ingredient is Wildtree's Bayou Blend, adding a zesty boost of cayenne, black pepper and bay leaf. It's a new twist to a Southern classic!


*1/2 head of red cabbage
, shredded*
*1/2 head of green cabbage, shredded*
*1/2 cup shredded carrots


*1/3 cup light brown sugar

*3/4 cup organic apple cider vinegar

*1/3 cup olive oil mayonnaise
*1/3 cup Natural Grapeseed Oil

*1/3 cup slivered almonds
*1 TB Wildtree Bayou Blend



Whisk all the ingredients together until smooth, pour over cabbage, carrots and almonds, then chill one hour before serving.

* To save time, you may also use two of the pre-shredded cabbage bags from the refrigerated section at the grocer, instead of shredding your own.

Post Fourth of July Grillin'

We were out of town for a week over the Fourth, so it came and went without my sharing one single grilling idea from Wildtree - and there are so many good ones! And this month's Host Special is a Grilling Bundle with some of my favorite blends and sauces from Wildtree. Host a $500 party and get $35.50 in grilling sauces and rubs for free! (see column to right)

Surf or Turf?
Beef, chicken or pork grill beautifully with Wildtree's Rancher Steak Rub, Rodeo Rub, Leslie's Smoky Burger and Rib Sauce, Banana BBQ, and Toni's Over the Top BBQ Sauce.

I love the Moroccan Grilling Sauce especially on salmon, but any fish would do beautifully with it as well as with the Pacific Fusion, Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette, Bayou Blend or Teriyaki. Also coat lightly any seafood with the Lemon Infused or Roasted Garlic Grapeseed Oil and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. So easy and so good.


Better Burgers
Goodness, where to begin! Coat any beef, veal, or turkey pattie with one of the following sauces or blends for a knock- your- socks-off burger, sure to rival any restaurant.

Rancher Steak Rub
Rodeo Rub
Leslie's Smoky Burger and Rib Sauce
Toni's Over the Top BBQ Sauce
Smoked Tomato and Mozzarella
Cajun Seasoning
Jamaican Jerk
California Garlic Pepper
Opa! Greek
Italian Salad Dressing
Bayou Blend
Adobo Seasoning

Wildtree and Kid-Friendly Favorites

Whoever said "summer time and the living's easy" didn't have four children. It gets NUTS around here when school is out. Everyone is home and sometimes they bring a couple of friends with them - they are all playing harder, staying up later, and having a bigger appetite. Maybe it's the swimming. But these are the days I am glad I have quick, easy and healthy in my pantry!

Preparing and storing in the fridge just a few Wildtree blends ahead of time will help you and your kids whip up quick, delicious meals or snacks in a moment's notice. Take a look at these time-savers below.


LIGHT AND QUICK SNACKS: Keep in the fridge 4oz. of cream cheese + ½ cup of powdered sugar + 2 tsp. of any cheesecake blend (flavor is best after a minimum of 2 hours.) Pull out for dip with graham cracker sticks, vanilla wafers, or with fruit. Or spread on rice cakes and top with any fruit.

PASTA: Convert your Ramen Noodle eater into an Alfredo lover. Have boiled pasta in fridge for a quick mix with the Alfredo Sauce. Also great for stirring in at a moment's notice: Basil Pesto Blend with a toss of grated parmesan, Kidz Cheese, Hearty Spaghetti, Italian Dressing (with a little celery, onion and grape tomatoes.) Also pasta is a quick meal with ANY of the grapeseed oils - TONS of flavor with just a quick shake and you can add meat or veggies as desired.

POPCORN: Microwave Popcorn takes on new life sprinkled with Kids Cheez (dry - not mixed!) Also awesome with the Jalapeno Pepper Blend.

VEGGIES: Store some Dill Blend with a little mayonaise and sour cream in the fridge for dipping carrot and celery sticks. Also makes a wonderful spread for any sandwich.

QUICK MEATS: Cheeseburger Bites with the Meatloaf Mix. Mix as directed, then take a small cube of cheese and role the meatloaf mix around the cheese cube (like a meatball) and cook. This will be a favorite with the kids.

Sloppy Joes pre-made and stored in the fridge is a great quick-grab sandwich and Wildtree's has no MALTODEXTRIN in it. PLUS it just tastes better than the grocer's brand. Or let them pile nacho chips on a plate, load it with the Sloppy Joe mix, a little greens from Salad in a Bag topped with salsa and sour cream and your kids have a self made taco salad! Or dollop it in a tortilla wrap, top with some cheese, nuke it for a minute, roll it up and eat!

EASY PIZZA: Everyone can make their own pizza - you don't even have to go to the trouble of using Wildtree's Quick Easy Pizza Dough or Whole Wheat Pizza Dough (although they really are no trouble at all to use....) Just grab a tortilla wrap or an english muffin or bagel, toast quickly for a crisp bottom, coat with pre-made Hearty Spaghetti Sauce you have stored in the fridge and add cheese and toppings galore as your heart desires.

HEALTHIER FAST FOOD: Have someone with a hankering for Bojangle's fries? Throw frozen ones in the oven and shake on Wildtree's Cajun Blend.

Make anything you could get from Taco Bell, better for you and faster than the drive over. Store some chicken or beef seasoned with Fajita Blend or Taco Seasoning, have chips and taco shells on hand and all the toppings - can even make salsa quickly with Fiesta Salsa AND your own guacamole in minutes with the Guacamole Blend! It truly is that easy! Yo queiro Wildtree!

PROTEIN HIT: Any nuts in the pantry taste better with a shake of Spicy Dry Rub or Cranberry Spice Blend. The Cranberry Spice Blend is also one of those that is wonderful mixed with cream cheese and stored for a quick graham or wafer dipping snack time.

CHICKEN SALAD IN A SNAP: The easiest chicken salad I have made in a while was simply a breast or two of cooked chicken (seasoned however you like) torn and mixed with a little mayonaise, pickle relish, chopped onion and Curry Garlic Blend. Incredible - and start to finish took minutes. Great with crackers or as a wrap if a sandwich is too much on these hot days.

Happy Cooking - Happy Summer!

Summer Menu Planner

No one likes to slave over a hot stove when it's 90 degrees outside, so here it is - the highly asked for easy summer cooking two week meal planner. These light meals will save you time in the kitchen, but won't skimp on taste. Mix it up with Wildtree's current Two Week Planner and you have a whole month of meals planned out for you. Now. What will you do with all that free time?!

Happy Cooking!

Side Benefits - Not Side Effects!!

Most of you already know what Wildtree products DO NOT contain - no MSG, no high fructose corn syrup, no artificial dyes or flavors, no preservatives or additives, no genetically modified organisms, no hydrogenated fats, no irradiated ingredients, no artificial sweeteners - (should I stop??)

But do you know about the many wonderful nutrients Wildtree products DO contain? Powerful antioxidants, herbs and spices with known anti-cancer properties, healthy sweeteners! Spices that are recognized as infection fighters, oils that contribute to a healthy heart and weak acids such as lemon and lime extract that help alkalize the system!

Did you know that every time you whip up a Wildtree dish that contains curry that you are not only serving something that tastes great but that it also has anti-cancer and anti-bacterial properties? And just recently it was discovered that if a person eats curry once or twice a week, it may help prevent the onset of Alzehimers disease and dementia.

Take a look at some of the other health providing nutrients found in many Wildtree products:

Garlic is an antibacterial herb which has medicinal properties against microbes, bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses. It is also healthy for the respiratory tract.

Cilantro is rich in Vitamin C and also has anti-bacterial properties.

Cinnamon is well-known for blood sugar control, it boosts brain function, prevents unwanted clumping of blood platelets and enhances digestion.

Rosemary contains nutrients which minimize free radical damage in the brain, fight bacteria and act as a decongestant.

Onion & Chives ward off colds, coughs, asthma and breathing problems. They associated with reducing the risk of stomach cancer, helping to ward off strokes and reduce cholesterol and triglycerides.

Cayenne Pepper / Hot Chili Peppers / Jalapeño Peppers improve circulation, stop bleeding from ulcers, are good for the heart, the kidneys, the lungs, pancreas, spleen and stomach. Ward off colds, sinus infections and sore throats.

Clove has antiseptic and anti-parasitic properties. Also aids in digestion.

Blueberries are packed with antioxidant phytonutrients that neutralize free radical damage to the collagen of the cells and tissues.

Ginger cleanses the colon, stimulates circulation, and is a strong antioxidant and enhances digestion.

Ground Mustard Seeds improve digestion and aid in the metabolism of fat.

Thyme has strong antiseptic properties, lowers cholesterol, reduces fever and headache.

Dill enhances digestion, gives relief from insomnia, hiccups, diarrhea and respiratory disorders

Information provided by Donna Hetrick, Wildtree Team Leader/Certified Clinical Nutritionist

Make Mine with a Side of Easy

You know, I really enjoy cooking, it's the planning of WHAT to cook that I don't enjoy. And if I haven't thought dinner through early enough in the day, I get started, then realize I don't have sour cream, or I forgot to pull the chicken out of the freezer or lo and behold, no tomato sauce....

So, I have really enjoyed Wildtree's Two Week Menu Planner because it takes the dreaded "what's for dinner" aspect out of my day.

Many of you have asked for a full month's worth of meal planning instead of the two weeks Wildtree provides with the family bundle buy. I am putting together two weeks of light, spring/summer recipes and will post them very soon. Once completed, you will have four weeks of meals you can rotate as you please. How's that for easy, stress-free cooking?!

And for those of you who are not quite ready to make the $80 investment in herbs to use the planners verbatim, fear not. You can still plan and shop for your meals with them, just adjust the ingredients to accommodate your own oils and spices. I will keep you posted on any specials that come up with the bundle blends, and of course if you want to get them FREE, invite me over for dinner with your friends! :P

Memorable Memorial Day Ribs

It's almost Memorial Day weekend and time to roll out our new grill again! This year we are going for ribs, mainly because Wildtree has an awesome new burger and rib sauce and rodeo rub that I can't wait to try. Here's what's cooking our way!


Rodeo Ribs - Serves 4

*1 lb. beef or pork ribs
*1 tablespoon Wildtree Rodeo Rub
*Leslie’s Smoky Burger & Rib Sauce

Rub Rodeo Rub onto both sides of meat just before cooking. For a more intense flavor, wrap ribs with plastic wrap and refrigerate 2 hours or overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.

To oven roast the ribs, preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Wrap ribs in foil, place on a baking sheet and roast until tender, about 1 1/2 hours. Remove ribs from foil, place directly on baking sheet and roast until caramelized, about 30 minutes more. If desired, baste ribs with Leslie’s Smoky Burger & Rib Sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

To grill the ribs, wrap ribs in foil, place on grill over indirect heat and cook until tender, about 1 1/2 hours. Remove ribs from foil, place directly on grill and cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes more. If desired, baste ribs with Leslie’s Smoky Burger & Rib Sauce during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

Serve ribs with corn on the cob seasoned and grilled with Lemon Rosemary and a fresh salad and enjoy!

Pizza! Pizza!

Something about making a pizza instead of ordering one really gets my creative juices flowing when it comes to toppings. I love me some pepperoni, don't get me wrong. But when the crust is right there and the outcome is all in my hands, I want to step out of the box a bit and try something a little non-traditional. I fell in love with a BBQ Chicken Pizza that way many years ago.

Here are two phenom. recipes that can't be beat for originality and flavor. I like a crisp crust and find that the dough bakes crisper when placed directly on the oven rack. For a softer crust, use a oiled sheet or go deep dish and toss it all in a well- oiled iron skillet.

Looking for a creative pizza with some of your favorite toppings? Send them to me and I'll email you a custom recipe using the flavors you love most! For more ideas of what to do with your pizza dough besides making pizza, click here and choose "download" for product links to work.

Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Pear Pizza - Serves 8

* Natural Grapeseed Oil
*5 slices bacon
*1/4 cup packed brown sugar
*1/4 tsp. chili powder
*1 pear, peeled, cored and sliced
*1 tsp. lemon juice
*4 oz. of cream cheese
*1/4 cup chopped green onions
*1 So Quick and Easy Pizza Dough Mix *
*1/3 cup chopped pecans
*1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
* Honey - optional

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line bottom of rimmed baking pan with foil and lightly coat with Grapeseed Oil. Arrange bacon slices on pan; set aside.

In small bowl stir together brown sugar and chili powder. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture on the bacon slices. Bake for 15 minutes or until browned; mix and let rest the pizza dough as directed on the box, while the bacon is cooking. Remove bacon and set aside. Increase oven temperature to 450 degrees.

In small bowl toss together pear slices and lemon juice; set aside. In medium bowl stir together cream cheese, onions, and black pepper to taste. Prepare crust as directed. Spread cream cheese mixture on crust. Chop bacon and evenly sprinkle on cheese mixture. Arrange pear slices on bacon. Top with pecans and feta cheese.

Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until cheese begins to brown. Serve with honey for drizzling, if desired.



Alfredo Shrimp and Roasted Red Pepper Pizza - Serves 8

*1 pound fresh or frozen peeled, cooked, medium shrimp
*1 box So Quick and Easy Pizza Dough Mix *
*1 1/2 cups of Alfredo Extraordinaire
*1 tablespoon Basil Pesto
*1 tablespoon Smoked Mozarella & Tomato Blend
*1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
*1 12-ounce jar roasted red peppers, drained and cut into strips

Thaw shrimp, if frozen; set aside. Preheat oven to 375 degree F. Prepare pizza dough as directed on box.

In a small bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, Basil Pesto and Smoked Mozzarella blend. Spread evenly over the pizza dough. Sprinkle with cheese, then top with roasted peppers and shrimp.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until crust bottom is crisp and brown.

*Note: You may use Wildtree's Whole Wheat Pizza Mix, if you prefer.

New Product for May

Wildtree is always developing new sauces and culinary blends - it's exciting to see what they come up with throughout the year. This month they introduced an awesome Smoked Mozzarella and Tomato Blend. YUM. It is wonderful for using in any soup, casserole or sauce where you want a kick of old world Italian flavor. How about blending it with some cream cheese for a terrific bagel spread?

And from now until May 31, if you spend $60 with Wildtree, you can get it for FREE, a $10 value! Here's an easy dish to get you inspired and cooking!

Smoked Mozzarella and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts Serves 4 INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup panko 2 1/2 tablespoons Wildtree Smoked Mozzarella & Tomato Blend 1-10 ounce box frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled 1 pound chicken breasts, boneless, skinless 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Preheat oven to 425ºF. In a small bowl, stir together the panko and 1 tablespoon Smoked Mozzarella Blend. In a separate bowl, combine 1 tablespoon Smoked Mozzarella Blend, spinach, and cheese. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Cut a deep pocket in the thickest part of the chicken. Spoon the filling into the pocket and seal with a toothpick. Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in a 13x9 baking dish. Top with the mayonnaise and Smoked Mozzarella panko. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Homemade Dog Treats

You are eating healthier, but how about your furry friends? Have you ever read the ingredients in their treats? Here is a homemade treat recipe that my Murray Bear loves, and cats will love it too! It's a fairly large batch - I bake all at one time then cool and freeze in freezer bags, to pull out as I need. Or you could just as easily cut the recipe in half. Remember to store them in the fridge - they are preservative free!!

*3 cups flour
*3 cups oats
*2 cans tuna (6 oz. each)
*1 cup water
*1 cup Wildtree Natural Grapeseed Oil
*3 tsp. Parmesan Rice Seasoning

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grind oats in food processor and mix dry ingredients. Blend tuna in food processor and mix in wet ingredients. Mix wet and dry. Knead dough until smooth. Cook until light tan in color (about 20 minutes - but the time may vary depending upon the size of the treats.)

Shrimp Scampi the Wildtree Way

This recipe is easy, delicious and more healthy for you than traditional scampi. The grapeseed oil is lower in calories and fat and higher in antioxidants than commonly used olive oil.


Serves 4

*1 lb. medium shrimp, uncooked, peeled, deveined
*5 tablespoons Wildtree Natural Grapeseed Oil*
*4 teaspoons Wildtree Scampi Blend
*1/2 lb of linguine or other type of pasta
*Dry white wine (optional)



Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining and set aside. Drain pasta and set aside.

Place shrimp, 1 1/2 teaspoons Scampi Blend and 3 tablespoons Natural Grapeseed Oil in a cold skillet. Toss and bring to a low heat, cooking until the shrimp are pink, turning often. Remove shrimp from the pan leaving the cooking juices behind. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of Natural Grapeseed Oil, 1/4 cup of pasta water reserve (or wine), 2 1/2 teaspoons of Scampi Blend to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss on low heat until the juices are absorbed. Toss with the shrimp.

* Grapeseed Oil is great for dressings and dipping, but it is absolutely unbeatable for sauteing or frying because it can be heated to a higher temperature than other oils without burning. The higher the heat, the faster the cooking time - so foods stay juicier and retain more nutritional value. And the oil itself has some terrific health benefits! See the Grapeseed Oil Fact Sheet to learn more.

Pound vs. Pound

It is still hard for me to believe, but Wildtree's Not Your Everyday Pound Cake beat mine from scratch for texture and taste. Of course, we KNOW it was faster than making from scratch, but sure enough, it won for flavor and moistness as well. We baked one of each yesterday and glazed both with a lemon icing, and Wildtree's was preferred. Go figure.

Lemon Drizzle Icing

In a small bowl combine 1 cup sifted powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel and enough pure lemon extract or juice (3 to 4 teaspoons) to make an icing of drizzling consistency. Drizzle icing over cooled Not Your Everyday Pound Cake.





Crumbled Jam Pound Cake- Serves 8

* 1 box Wildtree Not Your Everyday Pound Cake Mix
* 1 jar of Wildtree Wildly Blueberry Jam or 9 oz. any flavor jam
* 1/4 cup flour
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons butter

Prepare the pound cake mix according to directions. Mix the flour, brown sugar and butter in separate bowl with pastry blender or by hand til crumbly. Set aside. Pour pound cake batter into greased baking dish and swirl 3/4 jar of jam into mixture. Sprinkle topping on pound cake and bake 45 minutes at 325 degrees.

I haven't tried the lemon glaze icing on this cake but lemon and blueberry are a great combo!

Moroccan Salmon on the Grill

Father's Day is coming a little early for us this year. Last Saturday night we bid an unexpected farewell to our trusty old Coleman ...ceremoniously pouring salt on it as its death march flame got a little out of hand for our liking - I, plate full of uncooked ribeyes in hand. Even with the Rancher Steak Rub they just weren't as good cooked under the broiler as they would have been on the grill.

So. We will be buying a new grill in May instead of June! And I think we will throw on some salmon, real soon.


Balsamic Glazed Moroccan Salmon - Serves 4

* 1/2 cup chicken broth, low sodium
* 1/4 cup Wildtree Moroccan Grilling Sauce
* 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
* 1 pound salmon fillets
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon Wildtree Natural Grapeseed Oil
* 1 teaspoon fresh squeezed lemon juice


Stir together chicken broth, Moroccan Sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Pat salmon dry and season with salt and pepper. Pour oil in iron skillet and place on medium-high heat grill. Sear the salmon in the oil until well browned, about 3 minutes per side. Turn fillets and cook an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer salmon to a plate and tent with foil. Pour the vinegar mixture into the skillet and simmer until thick and syrupy. Stir in lemon juice, season with salt and pepper and pour glaze over salmon.

Welcome to Cooking with Wildtree!

At the (awesome) recommendation of a friend, I begin my Wildtree Blog. Here is the place where I will share super easy, delicious and nutritious Wildtree recipes. AND it is my hope that you will do the same!

I will also post nutrition tips about Wildtree products as well as cooking tips and time and money saving ideas in the kitchen. Welcome - and Happy Cooking!