Foodie Friday: The 'Hot Mess'

Today, I am taking a break from the usual appearance posts to spot light a 'Catie Manning Original' to post a recipe.  No it is no Betty Crocker, but it is tasty and healthy none the less.  From my previous thoughts on the new year...the big bad 2014...as promised here is my one recipe this week!

Also I should note because I am working on a tight budget, I have listed the prices to which I found these items.  Price, ingredients and food labels for some of the items played a role in my purchases.  The items to which do not have a price listed, I had at my house already.

Hot Mess
Yields: 4 meals

You will need:
1 green zucchini  (2/$3)
1 yellow zucchini  (2/$3)
1 green pepper ($1.69/lb)
1 teaspoon of Meijer Natural's Minced Garlic ($2 for a small jar)
Parsley
Italian Seasoning
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Meijer Natural's Brand Tomato Basil Organic Sauce ($1.99/jar)
Meijer Parmesan Cheese ($1.99/container)
1/2 box of spaghetti noodles (On sale for $1 a box)
Butter

Prep:
Take the your vegetables and rinse them off in cold water.  Take both zucchinis and grate them finely. Make sure to grate the whole vegetable.  Then, slice your green pepper in a little larger sections.  I would suggest cutting into roughly 8-10 pieces.  You will leave your prepped vegetables in a medium sized bowl.

Next, boil water in a larger pot.  As you allow your water to boil, use the extra virgin olive oil to coat a large separate skillet.  Using medium heat on your stove top, add in your pre-prepped vegetables.  Add your spoonful of minced garlic and sprinkle the top of your vegetables with your Italian seasonings.  If water is boiling at this point in pot, add 1/2 box of spaghetti noodles.

Occasionally toss or stir your vegetables as for them not to burn or the garlic to be too concentrated in any one area.  Once noodles are al dente, drain the excess water and remove vegetables from the heat.  Join your cooked vegetables with your spaghetti and add a 1/2 tablespoon or so of real butter and toss it into your mix.  Sprinkle the top generously with parmesan cheese and toss into mix as to lightly coat your noodles.  Sprinkle parsley over the top of the mix.

My Hot Mess pre-tomato basil serving

Before serving, lightly coat your hot mess with tomato basil spaghetti sauce.  You don't want it to be dripping by any means.  Toss just enough into your mix evenly.  Sprinkle serving with a small amount of parmesan cheese for appearance.

Protein:
There are many varieties that can be used to pair with the Hot Mess.  I would suggest sautéed shrimp or grilled chicken.  Both equally compliment in texture and flavors.

Wine or Drink Pairings:
A light slightly dry white wine such as a Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris would pair well with this meal.  These wines are light, crisp and add a slight fruit flavor.  For non-alcoholic options, a Sprite or Sprite/Cranberry Juice mix would also match this recipe.


I hope that you enjoy your Hot Mess!  This meal has lasted me a week and still tastes amazing.  Please try my recipe and see what you think.

I would love suggestions or to hear recipes from our viewers.  Feel free to comment below or catch us on our Twitter or Facebook Page.

Bon appétit!
Catie Manning

Healthy Eating on a Budget

Hey everyone! I hope you are enjoying "Health Awareness Week" so far. Make sure you keep reading this week as we have lots to share with you all! Today I am going to share some tips about how easy it is to bring healthy eating into your home, even on a tight budget. 

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I grew up in a big family and a tight budget came right along with the siblings. My parents were always on the lookout for coupons and money-saving tips when it came to providing healthy meals for us kids.  Through them, I learned many tips that help me as I plan meals for my family today. 
Lately, my biggest help with staying within budget has been to make a weekly meal plan. I look for healthy meals that are quick to prepare and easy on our wallet. I use coupons where I can, but I usually just shop sales and off brands. I love looking on pinterest for recipes and have found many healthy and budget friendly recipe sites through it (BudgetBytes and HeavenlyHomemakers are two that I visit often). Some things that I try to keep in mind while writing my meal plans include:

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• Potatoes, rice and pasta are cheap bases to any meal. Use brown rice or whole wheat pasta for a healthy option.
• Cheese is expensive, and honestly it’s not that healthy for you in large quantities (such a sad fact of life). Look for recipes not drowning in cheese.
• Fresh produce can get expensive but it is worth it. Plan your menu wisely and you won't be buying excess produce that you end up throwing out at the end of the week.
• Your crock pot is your friend (especially if you work outside the home).
• Do I have a protien, carb, and veggie/fruit for every meal? Check out these sites to learn more about preparing a healthy, balanced meal.
• The Healthy Eating Plate
• Choose My Plate

Just remember, your food is your fuel. You don't have to have organic foods bursting your ears, but your body does need GOOD FOOD so that it can function effectively. (If you need some nutrition advice, I'm sure Erica would be more that happy to help!)

P.S. Make your healthy food in style with one of my custom-made aprons! Remember one of my recent posts where I mentioned that I was sewing aprons? Well I finished them! These were for a friend's custom order but they have inspired me to finally complete one for myself! If you are interested in an apron for yourself or to give as a gift- feel free to leave me a comment or find them on my Etsy shop!