Sandra Lee semi-homemade

Festive Thanksgiving

The happiest season of all is upon us, and it all begins with Thanksgiving planning and Christmas clamoring. This means plenty of busy entertaining and gift-giving shopping. You can feel the anticipation for the holidays everywhere and the excitement is infectious. Department stores and homes are already hanging up magnificent holiday decor with festive wreaths and twinkling lights.

Thank goodness it's Thanksgiving when we can eat to our heart's content and enjoy our family and friends. Did you catch "Semi-Homemade Cooking" this past Sunday at 11:30 a.m. ET? My sister Kimber and I served a Festive Thanksgiving menu. If you're still planning yours, try the Peppered Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes and Three Bread Stuffing for great side dishes from the episode. We've got more recipes and tablescape tips here. For dessert, I've got you covered with my Peanut Butter Fudge Cookies in light of Peanut Butter Fudge Day on Saturday. It's a super simple recipe for a quick and sweet treat.

Last week, I stopped by Good Morning America to show my one box used four ways idea from the November/December issue of my magazine. It was genius. I made coffee-crusted pork chops, a chocolate coffee cappuccino, tiramisu and even a beautiful tenderloin from my new cookbook, Semi-Homemade The Complete Cookbook. Robin was a lovely host, and Sam was as sweet as ever. It was the first time I've ever seen George giggle, which JuJu got a great kick out of. So check out the new issue of the Semi-Homemade magazine on newsstands now, as it will not only impress your Thanksgiving guests, but it will get you through the holidays happily.

Cheers to a happy, healthy home and a wonderful Thanksgiving season,

Sandra

Comfort Food

This past Saturday, I was the honorary chair for the Chappaqua Antiques Show in Chappaqua, New York, which featured more than fifty dealers from around the country who toted an unique assortment of home decor treasures. I could not attend because I wasn't feeling well all weekend, but I know they had the most amazing jewelry, kitchenware, and furniture – there is always something for every home. I started my career in home and garden – so creating a beautiful home is more than a hobby to me, it's my passion. Hey, maybe I should write a home and garden book? A beautiful home filled with lovely treasures and comforting corners. I say yes!

Speaking of comfort, what is your favorite comfort food? Today, my new cookbook Semi-Homemade Comfort Food is released in bookstores and online. I had a great time putting this book together because comfort food always makes me happy. There's nothing like digging into your favorite comfort food to put a satisfied smile on your face and to make you feel at home no matter where you are. I know my comfort food book will bring your home joy and satisfied tummies.

For dinner tonight, make my Meatball Lasagna, Greek Garlic Fries, and Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding for a meal the entire family will cozy up to and love. There are also great comfort food recipes in the November/December issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade that hit newsstands last week.

Thanksgiving is the ultimate comfort food feast. With only two more weeks until the holiday arrives, get a head start on planning by tuning in to "Semi-Homemade Cooking" this Sunday morning at 11:30 a.m. EST/10:30 CT on Food Network. My sister Kimber is joining me for a Festive Thanksgiving where we serve a mouthwatering Herb and Pear Glazed Turkey, Three Bread Stuffing, and more. Also watch Saturday night, November 13 at 9 p.m. EST, for the Food Network All Star Special – I have the most fun with Big Daddy. Don't miss it. See ya next Monday morning.

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

It's November

This week hosts one of the most important days in the fall - Election Day. Our right to vote is often taken for granted in this nation because Americans today have always had the right to vote, compared to other countries who do not allow all citizens such a privilege.

I encourage my fellow Semi-Homemakers and fans to go out there and be active citizens by casting your vote in  your local elections. Your opinion matters, and it should be heard. Find out who is running for what office in your city and state, and explore the mission of the campaigns of these candidates. Ultimately, by becoming informed, you can make a smart vote that you can feel good about.

This fall is truly flying by - it's incredible that November is already here. We're heading into the busy holiday season, and I know your everyday schedules are as jam-packed as mine. To ease your load, pick up the new November/December issue of my Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine – it just hit newsstands and is a wonderful issue with easy recipes and festive ideas.

Remember to tune in to "Semi-Homemade Cooking" on Food Network every Sunday morning at 11:30 a.m. EST/10:30 a.m. CT. This Sunday, watch for my easy and relaxing Wine Party . I'll be serving up Brie and Merlot Mushroom Bites, Flat Iron Steak with Cabernet Sauce and more. This Tuesday is also Deviled Egg Day, so try my "Straight Up" Deviled Eggs for a simple snack or tasty starter to your own wine and cocktail parties this holiday season. Finally, look for my new blog every Monday.

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

Happy Halloween

Halloween is finally here this week! I love Halloween because it is the one day of the year when you can be whoever or whatever you want. You can let your imagination run wild and fulfill your most dramatic fantasy, so why not go completely over the top? In the past, I've played larger than life divas like Cher and Madonna, and legendary royalty like Marie Antoinette and Guinevere. I've also had a lot of fun making up my own characters like Faireen (Queen of the Fairies). No matter what your costume fantasy is, make it come alive this All Hallow's Eve.

Did you catch the Halloween special this past Sunday? I was Robin Hood, Lady Marian, a Gypsy fortune teller "Cher," Queen Elizabeth AND Queen of the Fairies. With my elaborate costumes, I am known as the Queen of Halloween at Food Network, and that's why an encore replay of my Halloween Queens episode will be airing on Food Network this Sunday at 11:30 a.m./10:30 CT.

I hope you have plenty of candy stocked up for trick-or-treaters and delicious desserts for this weekend's dinner like my Ghoulish Pies – or serve my Bloodshot Eyecakes at your Halloween bash - but beware, they are not for the faint of heart.

Also, this is your last chance to get my Halloween magazine special issue – I hope you can still find one. And finally this Wednesday, the November/December issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine is hitting newsstands. I've got delicious holiday fare and beautiful decoration tips. Remember to keep it simple, keep it smart, and keep it Semi-Homemade, and Happy Halloween!

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

Halloween

With Halloween quickly creeping up on us, we can use this holiday to give to those in need. The special collector's edition of Sandra Lee Halloween shows you how to turn ordinary cupcakes, cookies and packaged treats into spooky and silly sweets. This Monday was Chocolate Cupcake Day - whip up a batch and decorate them with skeletons or wolf faces. You can sell these at a bake sale for a sure hit.

This week, I am unveiling my gypsy fortune teller "Cher" costume. The Halloween special will be airing this coming Sunday, October 24. There are two more fabulous costumes you have yet to see, and of course, amazing recipes. Remember to tune in on Sunday at 11:30 a.m./10:30 CT - you're not going to want to leave the room! Do you have your costume ready yet?

Of course, I am getting into the fun, and fundraising for a good cause – last Wednesday, October 13, I had the privilege of hosting the Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF (the United Nations Children's Fund) 60th Anniversary Celebration. Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF started 60 years ago, when a family started collecting money on Halloween in decorated milk cartons for UNICEF. UNICEF uses the money raised to provide medical aid and food to children all over the world. With your help, they reach more than 150 countries in need!

You can easily participate in this great Halloween tradition by collecting donations in your own iconic Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF box - pick one up at your local Toys 'R Us and Babies 'R Us stores, or order online at trickortreatforunicef.org. Fundraise by holding a bake sale or throwing a Halloween party, and donate all proceeds directly to UNICEF on their website. You can also simply get involved by spreading the word - encourage friends and family to participate by sharing Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF on your Facebook, Twitter or personal blog.

Thank you for helping, and please know even the smallest donation makes a difference –a one dollar ($1) donation gives a child clean water for FORTY days. Think about that. See ya next week!

Cheers to a happy, healthy Halloween,

Sandra

NYC Wine and Food Festival 2010

It's always a treat to meet my fellow Semi-Homemakers who live by and  inspire the Semi-Homemade brand. Hearing from you how the "Semi-Homemade" philosophy saved you time in the kitchen and made you a hero in the family is one of the most gratifying things. I take all of your stories to heart -- and I'm truly grateful for all your support.
 
This past weekend, I met so many of you at one of the greatest foodie events, the New York City Wine & Food Festival.  I had an unbelievably good time co-hosting SWEET with Duff Goodman, and sampling some of the most exquisite desserts New York has to offer. The best part of all was that while we were all wining and dining on these wonderful treats, we were also helping to raise money for Share Our Strength, to help prevent childhood hunger.
 
The success of these wine and food festivals is one testament that our country loves and appreciates food.  Our national food days are another testament to our passion for food. This Thursday, October 14th is Pasta Day! I'd like to challenge you all to whip up several different pasta dishes, to create your own little tasting event at home.  You can find several quick and easy recipes for pasta on my website: Italian Chicken with Artichokes, and Spaghetti with Minted Pesto. You'll also find recipes in the September/October issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine. Bon Appétit!
 
On a side note, as promised, I'm unveiling the next costume on my Halloween special which airs on October 24. This week is Lady Marian, the beautiful and legendary companion to Robin Hood, serving up Turkey and Chicken Legs with Medieval Marinade. Enjoy and remember to keep it simple, keep it smart, keep it Semi-Homemade!

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

Release of Semi-Homemade The Complete Cookbook

It is still September, but Food Network is gearing up for Thanksgiving already. Last week, I shot Food Network's All Star Thanksgiving special, where several of your favorite chefs gave the best recipes and tips for all of your Thanksgiving planning and cooking. I'll be showing you the best holiday punch to serve and what to cook on your stovetop when the oven is full, including sensational sides that are superb complements to any dinner. Of course, after cooking up such a huge feast, there will be plenty of food leftover, so to avoid wasting food, I'll be teaching you how to put creative twists on leftovers for new, tasty dishes - I call them round 2 recipes.

As the weather gets a bit cooler, it's time to whip up favorite recipes for the fall. My September/October issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine has a complete menu and tablescape for a Hearty Harvest Dinner and much more.

Also, this Monday, September 27, my newest, largest master cookbook, Semi-Homemade The Complete Cookbook, is officially released. The Complete Cookbook is packed with more than 1,000 best Semi-Homemade recipes for the way we cook today. I invite you to pick up a copy, kick back and relax; let me help you dream up the perfect meal for every day of week. Better yet, enjoy it with a warm mug of my Hot Strudel or Spiced Cider (it's National Mulled Cider Day today, September 30).

"Semi-Homemade Cooking" is featuring my Rustic Comfort episode this Sunday on Food Network at 11:30 a.m./10:30 CT so tune in for great country recipes like Slow Cooker Brisket with Brown Gravy, Pecan Candied Bacon Bites and more for this season. As always, remember to keep it simple, keep it smart, and keep it Semi-Homemade!

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

Happy Fall

Happy fall! Tomorrow is the first day of autumn, and it's officially time to say goodbye to those long, lazy summer days. In less than three days, I watched as one of the trees in my front yard change from green to bright yellow-orange. The apples in my apple tree have turned from green to a ripe red. The deer who enjoy them have competition now, as geese are flocking in to have a taste. On Saturday, I took Michaela back-to-school shopping at an outlet mall where we found some great bargains. As I was driving there, I saw how the fall leaves all around were changing color and dropping. It was a beautiful and bittersweet sight. Summer is over, and fall is truly here in New York State.

Autumn is always a busy season, especially with the kids back in school. I like to send the girls off to school with a hearty breakfast, and one of my favorite recipes for this time of year is Pumpkin Cinnamon Pancakes. Serve these delicious pancakes on Saturday, which is National Pumpkin Day. For other great recipes to start the day with, try my French Apple-Raisin Sandwiches and Cinnamon Buns.  During the fall, I always like to bake simple spiced cakes because it reminds me of my grandmothers. It was their tradition, which I honor with my Spiced Walnut Cake with Maple Cream in the latest issue of my magazine.

On the way home from the outlet mall, Michaela and I picked up a pumpkin for her to carve. It was her first pumpkin carving of the season. We'll be making more Jack O' Lanterns to decorate the house as Halloween approaches. To help you brainstorm, the Halloween special issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine hits newsstands this week. If pumpkin carving is too messy for you, I've got a fun alternative by transforming vegetables like butternut squash and cauliflower into fun, ghoulish creatures (sneak peak above). Who knew that your local produce could turn into mini monsters?

It's another busy week for me, and I couldn't be enjoying it more. Remember to tune in for the next episode of "Semi-Homemade Cooking" as my sister, Kimber, is joining me to cook up another great menu. We're making Grilled Chicken with Creamy Caper Sauce, Lace Lemon Cookies and more. Until next time, keep it simple, keep it smart, and keep it Semi-Homemade!

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

Season Premiere of "Semi-Homemade Cooking"

This past Sunday, September 12, was Grandparents' Day. It was especially fitting that the newest season of "Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee" premiered on the same day. After fourteen seasons of
"Semi-Homemade Cooking," my Grandma Lorraine is still the main inspiration for Semi-Homemade. She raised me on a very limited budget, but showed me how to make things beautiful while on a budget. Following her around the kitchen, I learned that personal touches and savvy shortcuts can make anything extraordinary.

In a surprise twist for the new season of "Semi-Homemade Cooking," I've adapted my Semi-Homemade philosophy so that I'll be cooking with 70% in-season, fresh ingredients and only 30% ready-made products. I'm excited that I will be able to provide alternatives - whether it's a healthier option or a more convenient shortcut. To make things even easier for you, I will be updating SandraLee.com every week with each new episode's recipes and tablescape tips for you. My  Garden Fresh party's menu and tablescape is online for you now - it is perfect for putting together a fabulous, floral brunch to savor the last days of summer.

Many amazing episodes are ahead, with guests both old and new. My adorable nephew Bryce is returning. He helps me throw a colorful birthday bash in this Sunday's episode (check out the pictures - we had a blast). My sister Kimmie will be joining me for four episodes. Of course, there's my favorite Halloween special this season. I spent this past weekend shooting the Halloween episode at the New York Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo Park, New York. I can't reveal  what costumes I'll be wearing, but I promise it will be truly grand and medieval (hint hint!). I will be donning five elaborate costumes and whipping up five recipes in 30 minutes. It was loads of fun shooting, and I can't wait for you to see the episode.

This week, I'm in Birmingham, Alabama shooting photos for forthcoming issues of my magazine. Today, I'm headed to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and tomorrow, it'll be all about "in the kitchen."

I hope you are enjoying the new SandraLee.com, which is still in its testing stage. I would love to hear your feedback on the website or on Facebook, so that I can make it even better to become the go-to online kitchen helper for you, my fellow Semi-Homemakers.  Until next time, remember to keep it simple, keep it smart, keep it sweet, and keep it Semi-Homemade!

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

The New SandraLee.com

Welcome to the brand new official website of Sandra Lee. I have given SandraLee.com a complete makeover and added many more of my delicious recipes and savvy entertaining tips, so that my website can be an easy and fun source for you to go to when you're brainstorming for simply tonight's dinner menu or a fabulous birthday party. Here is what to keep an eye out for:

Check out my Recipes section for a treasure trove of delicious dishes and tasty treats. From easy entrées to sensational sweets, you'll be sure to find something for anytime of the day, anytime of the year. If you are looking to save time, my 20 Minute Meals are fast and simple to make. In just 20 minutes, you can serve Filet Mignon with Red Wine Mushrooms or Szechuan Chicken with Green Beans and Basil. If you want to spend less at the grocery store, try my Money Saving Meals, which include Baked Ziti with Spiced Pork or Elegant Shrimp Rings, so that while you are cutting costs, you are not skimping on taste. You'll also find additional recipes for staying fit, being healthful, firing up the grill, simple cooking with kids and much more –now you'll be able to please any crowd, every time.

My Gatherings & Tablescapes section is a great guide for throwing festive, themed dinner parties. Here, you'll find one of my favorite, "Racetrack Tailgate," featuring a Nascar-themed, fiery red and white tablescape perfect for a thrilling tailgating party. Each of my tablescapes offers ideas for a center piece, accent pieces, favors and a complete menu to wow your guests.

It's Cocktail Time! Browse through a monthly library of cocktail and mocktail recipes, so that you'll find the perfect drink to sip on all year long. This month, treat your sweet tooth to my Iced Brownie Espresso or serve the Rio Rum Punch for a party.

If you are craving more of my Semi-Homemade recipes and tips, join the Semi-Homemade Club bimonthly e-newsletter. You can always find links to purchase my best-selling cookbooks and sign up to try my magazine in the Books & Magazine section. Be sure to check in on SandraLee.com for weekly blog posts from me. Fresh and never-before-seen recipes from the new season of Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee will also be available on the website every week as each episode is broadcast, so that you will have new tasty dishes to try. I will be updating my About Sandra section, plus my Facebook and Twitter, to keep you posted on any upcoming public appearances.

I would love to hear back from you, my fellow Semi-Homemakers. If you have a general question or want to share your own Semi-Homemade recipe, send me a message here. If you like the new website, help me spread the word and share SandraLee.com with your friends. It's free and a great gift to give. And remember, keep it simple, keep it smart, keep it sweet, and keep it Semi-Homemade!

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

Egg Beaters

You can use Egg Beaters® as an easy and quick substitute for eggs in a variety of dishes.  It's wonderfully convenient when making French toast or a quick omelet, and especially when you need an egg wash for baking.  Of course, you can simply scramble it up as is, and use it for hearty egg sandwiches and breakfast burritos.   

Get the Recipe for Florentine Sramble