Prescott Area March 14, 2024

Exploring Granville, Prescott Valley: The Ideal Subdivision for New Home Buyers

Finding a place to call home is one of the most important decisions in life. For new home buyers looking for a blend of serenity and suburban allure, Prescott Valley, Arizona, offers a unique living experience. Tucked away in the heart of the Southwest, the Granville subdivision in Prescott Valley stands out as a premier choice, with its amenities and a community-centric living environment. If you’re ready to explore the prospect of settling in this charming locale, read on to discover everything you need to know about Granville.

The Essence of Prescott Valley

Set against the backdrop of the Bradshaw Mountains, Prescott Valley exemplifies the natural beauty Arizona is renowned for. Residents enjoy the best of both worlds – a small-town vibe combined with a city’s cultural and recreational offerings.

Prescott Valley sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet, a characteristic that not only blesses it with a mild, four-season climate but also treats residents to breathtaking panoramic views of the Bradshaw Mountains. The temperate climate and an average of 277 sunny days a year make it an alluring choice for those who appreciate the outdoors and an active lifestyle.

Prescott Valley is not just a place to live; it’s a location brimming with potential. The city’s economy is on the rise, and with the projected growth in the coming years, opportunities for budding entrepreneurs and professionals to expand significantly. Prescott Valley is strategically positioned within the state, with easy access to Phoenix and Flagstaff.

Immersive Living in Granville

Granville subdivision epitomizes family-friendly living, offering various amenities catering to diverse interests and needs. The recreation center is a hub for fitness enthusiasts, with a state-of-the-art gym and aerobics room. Swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, and a dog park ensure never-dull moments. 

The Academic Advantage

For families moving to the area, the quality of education is a crucial consideration. Fortunately, Prescott Valley is home to a range of excellent public and private institutions, each dedicated to fulfilling the potential of its students.

The Humboldt School District’s local schools, including Granville Elementary, Glassford Hill Middle School, and Bradshaw Mountain High School, are known for their comprehensive curriculum, excellent ratings, and helpful staff. 

Connections to Post-Secondary Institutions

For those with aspirations beyond high school, Granville is also a gateway to opportunities for higher education. Its proximity to Prescott and beyond provides access to esteemed colleges, such as Prescott College and Yavapai College, ensuring that Granville’s youth are well-equipped for a future of success.

Trails and Open Spaces

Granville acknowledges the soul-soothing benefits of communing with nature. Expansive trails and abundant open spaces encourage an outdoor lifestyle that beckons adventurers of all levels. These pathways are not mere walking trails; they’re the threads that weave communities together, fostering a sense of unity and shared love for the land.

Trusted Team

The team at Better Homes and Gardens BloomTree Realty is an expert in Prescott area real estate. Please stop by our office in downtown Prescott or call us at 928-443-8800; a trusted agent will assist you.

See Homes For Sale in Granville

 

Homeownership February 28, 2024

Make the Leap Towards Homeownership

Leap Year Dreams

February 29 only comes once every four years, a rare gift of time we call Leap Day. This year, it’s not just an extra day on the calendar—it’s an additional opportunity to chase down those life-changing aspirations. 

For home buyers, it’s the perfect metaphor for taking that bold step towards homeownership. Leap Day reminds us that extra time is a treasure, allowing us to do more, dream bigger, and leap forward into new adventures. 

Make the Leap Towards Homeownership

As the calendar affords us one more day, why not spend it making your dream of homeownership a reality? Leap Day can be your catalyst for action, a nudge to start that application, schedule a viewing, or finally make an offer on that house you’ve been eyeing.

Seize the Extra Day!

Remember, the leap year is about making the most of every moment, including today. You can turn your homeownership dreams into a plan with actionable steps. Don’t wait for tomorrow—because, in a leap year, tomorrow is an extra today! Take a leap of faith, and may this leap year bring you closer to the keys to your new home.

Working for Our Clients and Our Community

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate | BloomTree Realty has a couple simple goals; deliver the best service possible to our clients and be a supporter of important causes in the community in which we live. In short, we strive to be better and give back to our communities.

Our community-based values are infused into everything we do to ensure that clients are receiving the best possible outcome.

When you hire a Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate | BloomTree Realty Agent, you are not hiring just one agent; you are hiring a company with a committed group of professionals who support each other. You are hiring a dedicated leadership team committed to attracting and training the best agents and to supporting the community in which we all live.

Bloomtree and its partner, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, have teamed up to deliver the best training, culture, and brand value to produce the one-of-a-kind results clients expect and deserve.

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate | BloomTree Realty has won more independent consumer survey awards in the last three years than all other companies combined. We are dedicated to being better together…one client at a time.

Non-Profits February 13, 2024

Non-Profit Event Spotlight

Thursday, Feb 22 | The Point Bar & Lounge

Doors open at 5pm; event starts at 6pm.

The event will take place at The Point Bar & Lounge in Prescott, alley entrance, 114 N. Montezuma Street.

Hearty appetizers provided by La Planchada. Beer available for purchase.

Show up and leverage your $100 into $10,000 or more!


Non-Profit potential recipients at the next
100 Men Who Care event on February 22, 2024

House of Hope 316

Marley House

Susan J Rheem Adult Day Center


Who Is 100 Men?

100 Men Who Care, although not a nonprofit themselves, launched in 2019 to raise funds and awareness for local charities and nonprofits. To date, 100 Men Who Care has raised over $230,000 to help those in need.

Proceeds raised at each quarterly event are awarded to a charity voted on at that event. They promise to gift/donate $100 per participant to the winning group, whether present at the event or not!

How it Works

  • Structure: 100 men donate $100 each to a cause: $10,000 raised.
  • Frequency: Quarterly events, mid-week, 1 hour in length.
  • Beneficiary: Local organizations, 501C-3.
  • Presentations: Three groups present for 10 minutes each.
  • Vote: Paper ballot taken; highest votes received is awarded money raised for the evening.

    Better Homes and Gardens BloomTree Realty loves to supports the Prescott community!

Prescott Area January 31, 2024

Valentine’s Day Fun in Prescott, AZ

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and if you’re looking for unique ways to show your love, Prescott, Arizona, has an array of charming restaurants and activities to offer. From quaint park strolls to gourmet dining, you can celebrate this special day with memories to treasure.

Embark on a Wild Love Adventure at Heritage Park Zoo

Create new memories with your beau at Heritage Park Zoo, which is offering a Valentine’s Day BOGO admissions special. The zoo’s lush surroundings make for an intimate setting to appreciate nature’s beauty. Situated on ten acres north of Prescott and overlooking Willow Lake, the sanctuary has many opportunities for visitors and an exhibit unique to the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, the Tarantula Grotto. LEARN MORE.

Culinary Delights at Barley Hound

Surprise your loved one with a dinner reservation at Barley Hound, a cozy spot with an inventive menu. Barley Hound aims to be at the forefront of the culinary experience while maintaining a welcoming and casual small-town vibe. The menu is designed to please adventurous eaters while also featuring some delicious familiar items. LEARN MORE.

Watson Lake Kayaking for Two

If you both enjoy the outdoors, celebrate love by heading to Watson Lake for a delightful kayaking experience. Paddle through the sparkling waters surrounded by impressive granite boulders as you share moments of tranquility amidst beautiful natural vistas. 

French-Inspired Affair at Bistro St. Michael

Take your loved one to a place that screams romance – Bistro St. Michael. Experience the pleasure of crafted comfort food, drinks, and outstanding service surrounded by views of the courthouse plaza and Prescott’s busy downtown community. LEARN MORE.

Dance the Night Away at Palace Restaurant & Saloon

If you’re looking for a livelier way to celebrate, head down to the historic Palace Restaurant & Saloon. The old-west setting adds a unique flair to the evening, with music to set the mood. Share a dance across the oak floor with your special someone and relive the romance of years gone by. LEARN MORE.

Farm-to-Table Dining at Farm Provisions

Enjoy an authentic farm-to-table experience in an inviting atmosphere. Farm Provision’s slogan is “simple food elevated,” and is instilled in their seasonally changing menus. LEARN MORE.

Soak Up the Love at The Peavine Trail

Spend a lovely morning or afternoon with your loved one on the scenic Peavine National Recreation Trail. This 7-mile trail is perfect for walking, biking, or even horseback riding through stunning scenery and natural wonders. Pack a picnic to enjoy along the way and make it a day to remember.  

Secluded Picnic at Thumb Butte

Escape the bustling city and get lost in each other’s company amidst the beauty of Thumb Butte. Pack a romantic picnic with your partner and hike up to one of the lookout points for stunning views of Prescott and its surrounding forests. Take a moment to appreciate each other’s presence in this serene setting. 


As you plan your Valentine’s Day, let the quaint charm of Prescott inspire a Valentine’s Day that’s as extraordinary as your love.

 

Prescott Area January 11, 2024

Experience Golfing Excellence in Prescott, Arizona

Prescott, Arizona, may be known as the “home of the world’s oldest rodeo,” but it is also a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts. Nestled in central Arizona’s lush pine forests and rolling hills, Prescott boasts numerous award-winning golf courses that offer unparalleled scenic views and challenging fairways. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, there’s a course in Prescott for you. So, grab your clubs, and let’s look at why this charming town should be your next golfing destination.

Prescott’s golf courses are known for their stunning backdrops, from the majestic mountains to the peaceful lakes and ponds. The courses are located conveniently near Prescott, making it easy for residents and visitors to golf as often as they want!

If you’re planning a golfing trip to Prescott, I’ve included information on some of the popular courses below.

The Club at Prescott Lakes, Prescott Lakes

18 holes over 7,216 yards with a par of 72 (Private)
315 E Smoke Tree Ln
Prescott, AZ 86301-4419
(877) 643-3501

Capital Canyon Club

18 holes over 6,660 yards with a par of 71 (Private)
2060 Golf Club Ln
Prescott, AZ 86303-4957
(928) 350-3150

Antelope Hills Golf Courses, North Course 

18 holes over 6,539 yards with a par of 72 (Municipal)
1 Perkins Dr
Prescott, AZ 86301-8458
(800) 972-6818

Antelope Hills Golf Courses, South Course

18 holes over 6,129 yards with a par of 72 (Municipal)
1 Perkins Dr
Prescott, AZ 86301-8458
(800) 972-6818

StoneRidge Golf Course

18 holes over 7,052 yards with a par of 72 (Public)
1601 N Bluff Top Dr
Prescott Valley, AZ 86314-1901
(928) 772-6500

Talking Rock  

18 holes over 7,350 yards with a par of 72 (Private)
15075 N Talking Rock Ranch Rd
Prescott, AZ 86305-5681
(877) 922-4440

Prescott Golf Club, Prescott Country Club 

18 holes over 6,783 yards with a par of 72 (Public)
1030 N Prescott Country Club Blvd
Dewey, AZ 86327-5801
(800) 717-7274

Quailwood Greens Golf Course

18 holes over 5,258 yards with a par of 67 (Public)
12625 E State Route 69
Dewey, AZ 86327-4530
(928) 772-0130

Live Where You Golf

Below are a couple of golf subdivisions in the Prescott area. If you don’t see what you are looking for here, contact BloomTree Realty, there are several other communities to choose from!

Talking Rock

Talking Rock is an upscale master-planned golf community in the Williamson Valley corridor north of Prescott, Arizona. This prestigious community offers private and tranquil living only twenty minutes from shopping, dining, and medical services. At the heart of Talking Rock is the inviting Ranch Compound, a one-of-a-kind high country clubhouse that provides a place to meet for recreation and connect with your neighbors. Architect Jay Morrish designed the highly acclaimed golf course, which lies perfectly in the land’s natural contours, the rolling terrain, and the beautiful vistas.

See Homes for Sale in Talking Rock

Antelope Hills

Antelope Hills is a small golf community located on the 36-Hole Antelope Hills Golf Course in Prescott, Arizona. This quiet community is conveniently located on the crossroads of Highway 89 and Highway 89A, just minutes from downtown Prescott, the Yavapai Regional Medical Center, and the Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Residents of Antelope Hills enjoy the nearby hiking trails in Pioneer Park, Watson Lake, and Heritage Park.

See Homes for Sale in Antelope Hills

Stoneridge

StoneRidge in Prescott Valley, Arizona, is set in a diverse terrain with Panoramic Mountain, Valley, and Golf Course views. StoneRidge community offers direct access to Highway 69. The community is set back in the hills so residents can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and star gaze at the beautiful night sky. Residents of Stoneridge enjoy a Golf Course, two Clubhouse (Golf and Fitness), Meeting Rooms, a Gym, Parks, a Playground, Hiking, Walking Trails, Tennis, Basketball, Volleyball, Sand Volleyball, Horseshoe Pits, Locker Rooms, Indoor and Outdoor Pools, and Indoor Spa.

Families and retirees love to call StoneRidge home!

See Homes for Sale in StoneRidge

Prescott, Arizona, is a golfer’s paradise that offers some of the best courses in the state. Whether a casual player or a serious competitor, you’ll find a golf course that suits your preferences and challenges your skills. Prescott is also an excellent destination for a golf vacation or weekend getaway with its gorgeous scenery, pleasant weather, and friendly atmosphere. So, book your tee time and experience the joy of golfing in Prescott.

Give BloomTree Realty a call, we would love to help show you all that Prescott has to offer!

BloomTree Realty

(928) 443-8800

Recipes December 28, 2023

New Year’s Eve Recipes to Ring in the New Year

New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration and reflection, and what better way to do that than with delicious food? Whether you’re hosting a party or having a cozy night in, we have some tasty recipes to help you ring in the New Year with a bang.

Appetizers

Kick off your New Year’s Eve party with some tasty appetizers!

  • Broccoli-Cheese Dip with Potato Dippers: “The only prep that goes into making this decadent broccoli-cheese dip is adding all the ingredients to your slow cooker. Once that’s done, you can relax and let it work its magic, melting the cheese into a gooey, delicious appetizer. It’s the ultimate easy party dip—just give it a stir before serving and leave it in the slow cooker to stay warm throughout the celebration.”
  • Garlicky White Bean Dip: “No spread could ever completely replace creamy hummus in our hearts, but this party dip recipe sure comes close. Put your food processor to work to quickly blend white beans with garlic and olive oil. Once it’s smooth and creamy, spoon it into a serving dish and sprinkle on crushed red pepper to serve.”
  • Million Dollar Dip: “This is the holiday appetizer recipe you’ve been waiting for. Our recipe testers devoured this recipe and loved the balance between creamy cheese and crunchy bacon. Round out this easy appetizer recipe with fresh green onions, garlic powder, and slivered almonds. It’s guaranteed to be a hit.”

Celebration Cocktails

No New Year’s Eve party is complete without some festive cocktails to toast the night away!

  • Prosecco-Peach Champagne Punch: Pureed peaches put a surprising spin on the traditional mimosa recipe. Our version makes a big batch of champagne cocktails, so it’s a perfect drink recipe to serve at summer cookouts or gatherings.
  • Mixed-Berry Limoncello Sangria: “Looking for a sweet alcoholic drink? Lemonade and champagne are a hit (there are 100+ positive reviews to prove it!) when combined in this unique sparkling sangria recipe. Simply infuse lemonade and limoncello with fruit, add Prosecco or another sparkling wine, and serve.”
  • Orange-Ginger Pomegranate Punch: “Because orange, ginger, and pomegranate echo the warm flavors of the winter season, this champagne punch is a perfect drink recipe to serve during the holidays. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and orange slices for a fabulous finishing touch.”

Desserts

Of course, no celebration is complete without something sweet to satisfy your dessert cravings!

  • Warm Skillet Cookie: “Loaded with bittersweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts, this truly decadent cookie is served up straight from the oven to table in a cast-iron skillet. The result is a warm, gooey dessert that’s even better when topped with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream.”
  • Dessert Fruit Pizza: “Pizza on a sugar cookie crust? We’ll take two slices, please! Making dessert pizza is also a great way to pass the time while counting down until midnight.”
  • New Year’s Almond Log Cake: “This rich dessert sweetly celebrates the French custom of burning a Yule log, which prevents bad spirits from flowing down the chimney into the New Year. Plus, it’s delicious.”

There are endless possibilities for delicious food and drinks to enjoy on New Year’s Eve. Try out these recipes or get creative and come up with your own festive dishes. Just remember to savor every bite and cherish the time spent with loved ones as you ring in the new year. Happy cooking and cheers to a fantastic year ahead!

Prescott Area December 13, 2023

Creative Ways to Celebrate the New Year

The New Year is a time to reflect on the past and make resolutions for the future. It’s a time to be thankful for the memories and look forward to the future. And what better way to celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another than by throwing a party? But let’s be honest, champagne and a countdown can only go so far. It’s time to get creative! Here are some ideas to make your New Year’s celebration unforgettable!

Time Capsule

Gather your friends and family together and create a time capsule. Have everyone write down their predictions for what will happen in the upcoming year, what they hope to accomplish, and any goals. Then, seal the capsule and store it away. This way, when New Year’s rolls around again, you can all get excited to see what came true and what didn’t.

Progressive Dinner

Instead of having one big meal, why not make a night of it and have a progressive dinner? Start at one friend’s house for appetizers, move to another for the main course, and end at another for dessert. A progressive dinner is a great way to keep the party moving and try different foods, all while spending time with your loved ones.

Themed Party

Pick a theme for your New Year’s party and go all out! Whether it’s a 1920s speakeasy, a disco inferno, or a casino night, dressing up and getting into character will make the night unforgettable.

Photo Booth

Set up a DIY photo booth with props and a backdrop. This is a great way to capture memories and add fun to the night. You could even create a hashtag or photo album for your guests to share photos.

Family Game Night

If partying isn’t your style, have a family game night instead. Pull out all the board games, cards, and trivia games, and let the friendly competition begin. It’s a great way to bring everyone together and have fun before midnight strikes.

The New Year is a time to celebrate with those we love. Whether you’re throwing a big bash or having a cozy night with your family, make it unforgettable by getting creative with your celebration. There are endless ways to ring in the New Year, from creating a time capsule to having a themed party and everything in between. Cheers to a happy and healthy 365 days!


New Year’s in Prescott

If you are in the Prescott, Arizona, area, you should check out the annual Boot Drop on New Year’s Eve.

Boot Drop Information

For more information on Prescott, stop by the Better Homes and Gardens BloomTree Realty in downtown Prescott; they would love to help you! (928) 443-8800

Sedona Area November 30, 2023

Christmas in Sedona 2023

Here is the ‘Save the Date’ information you need to enjoy Christmas in Sedona!


The Magical Christmas Journey

Verde Canyon Railroad | View Dates Here

“The Magical Christmas Journey™ is Verde Canyon Railroad’s all-original storybook holiday journey to the North Pole and back, featuring an elaborate miniature Christmas village, festive lights, holiday treats, a Christmas princess, animal characters and a live Bald Eagle. Santa boards the train for the return trip to Clarkdale. This one-hour round-trip journey is perfect for even the tiniest tot.” LEARN MORE.


Breakfast with Santa

The Hub at Posse Grounds Park | December 2 | 8-10 a.m. 

“Join Sedona Parks & Recreation and the Sedona Elks for the 13th annual Breakfast with Santa. This free event includes pancakes, holiday caroling, Santa’s Stable of reindeer and a visit with St. Nick at the Hub, 525-B Posse Ground Rd. Breakfast will be served until 9:45 a.m. Some activities will be conducted outdoors, please dress accordingly.” LEARN MORE.


The Festival of Lights

336 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ  | December 9 | 3-8 p.m

“A full schedule of lively musical entertainment, a visit from Santa, and free cider await, making it the perfect outing for families and friends. At the tolling of the bell tower at 5:00 p.m., the lighting of 6,000 luminarias gets underway in Tlaquepaque’s courtyards and walkways. Specially designated luminarias to honor cancer survivors can be purchased in Patio del Norte as well.” LEARN MORE.


Sedona Railroaders Annual Holiday Train Show

Sedona Vista Village – Suite D7 | View Dates Here

“No Christmas would be complete without memories of the old-fashioned department store’s displays of miniature toy trains. “Get on Board!” and enjoy the re-creation of some of these memories through stunning visual images of operating model railroad equipment. This year’s exhibit will include an American Flyer S gauge layout. O, N, and HO gauges will also be on display.” LEARN MORE.


Santa Claus is Coming to Town

Tlaquepaque Patio de las Campanas  | December 16 | 3-5 p.m

“Santa is coming to Tlaquepaque!!! Snap a wonderful keepsake photo with Santa. Spend the afternoon enjoying the live musical entertainment, free face painting and our special holiday guests who will entertain you while waiting. Tlaquepaque Toy Town will be hosting craft time and cookie decorating. YUM! Live Music performed by Red RockApella and Divom.” LEARN MORE.

Selling Tips November 15, 2023

Open House Food To Impress Buyers

If you’re hosting an open house, you’ll want to ensure you have some food available. Here are ten open-house food ideas that will make your open-house a success:

1. Finger foods. Finger foods are always a hit at any party, and an open house is no exception. Consider offering some bite-sized appetizers that your guests can quickly grab and go.

2. Fresh fruit. Fresh fruit is a great way to ensure your guests have something healthy to nibble on.

3. Veggies and dip. Veggies and dip are another healthy option that your guests will love. Offer a variety of chopped veggies, along with a variety of dips.

4. Cheese and crackers. Cheese and crackers is another classic open-house food option your guests will love. Be sure to offer a variety of cheeses, as well as some gluten-free crackers for those with dietary restrictions.

5. Sandwiches. Sandwiches are always a good option if you want to offer something a little more substantial. You can make them beforehand or set everything up so your guests can build their own.

6. Soup. Soup is another excellent option for an open house, especially if it’s chilly outside. Set up a crockpot with your favorite soup and let your guests help themselves.

7. Chili. Chili is another great option for an open house, especially if you’re expecting many people. Set up a crockpot with your chili and let your guests help themselves.

8. Dessert. No open house is complete without some dessert! Offer your guests a variety of cookies, brownies, or other sweets.

9. Coffee and tea. Make sure you have coffee and tea and some sugar and milk available for your guests if they want it.

10. Water. Remember the most important beverage of all: water! Be sure to have plenty of water for your guests to stay hydrated.

By following these open-house food ideas, you’re sure to make your open-house a success!

Selling homes is my specialty! When you are ready to sell, call me, and together, we can make your home sale a smooth and successful process!

Better Homes and Gardens is a fantastic resource for recipes. Use these articles to inspire you for creative food for you next open-house.

 


Sugared Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

BHG Recipe

These bacon-wrapped smokies will disappear from your party spread in a flash. A coating of brown sugar before baking ensures that each of these little smokies has the perfect sweet and savory flavor combo.

Ingredients

  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • 1 16 ounce package small cooked smoked sausage links
  • 15 slices bacon, each cut crosswise into thirds
  • ¾ cup packed brown sugar

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with foil; lightly coat with cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. Wrap each sausage link with a bacon piece, overlapping the bacon piece at the end. Press the end of the bacon piece to seal or secure it with a wooden toothpick.
  3. Place brown sugar in a large plastic storage bag. Add several bacon-wrapped sausages to bag and seal. Shake bag gently to coat sausages with brown sugar; place sausages in prepared pan. Repeat with remaining bacon-wrapped sausages and brown sugar.
  4. Bake about 30 minutes or until the bacon is browned. Serve immediately. Makes about 45 appetizers.

Tips

Prepare as directed through step 3. Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To serve, uncover and bake as directed in step 4.


(928) 443-8800

Recipes October 31, 2023

Soups to Warm Your Stomach this Fall Season!

Fall weather is here! Bring on cozy blankets, apple cider, fuzzy socks, and . . . . soup! Here are a few of our favorite soup recipes that will make your mouth water this fall and winter season. Enjoy!

Recipe Source: Bhg.com


Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Ingredients

  • ½ cup each chopped carrot and celery
  • ⅓ cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cup chopped cooked chicken breast
  • 2 cup dried medium egg noodles
  • ½ teaspoon each seasoned salt, dry mustard, chili powder, and ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 cup half-and-half or light cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chopped fresh broccoli
  • ⅓ cup frozen peas
  • 1 recipe Quick Biscuits

Quick Biscuits

  • 2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 4 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
  • ½ cup butter
  • ⅔ cup milk

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan cook carrot, celery, onion, and garlic in hot butter about 5 minutes or until tender. Stir in broth, chicken, noodles, and seasonings. Bring mixture to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, 10 minutes or until noodles are tender.
  2. In a small bowl whisk together half-and-half and flour; add to pot. Add broccoli and peas. Simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes or until slightly thickened. Spoon into bowls; top with Quick Biscuits.

Quick Biscuits

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F. In a bowl combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and cream of tartar. Cut in butter to make coarse crumbs. Make a well in center; add milk. Using a fork, stir just until moistened. On a lightly floured surface gently knead dough until it holds together. Pat into an 8-inch square. Cut into 12 rectangles; place 1-inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden.

Beef and Barley Stew with Roasted Winter Vegetables

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 – 2 ½ pound boneless beef chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ½ cup chopped onion (1 medium)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
  • 1 14.5 ounce can beef broth
  • 2 cup water
  • 1 cup dry red wine
  • 4 medium red or yellow potatoes and/or sweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 4 medium carrots and/or parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • ½ cup regular barley
  • Beef broth (optional)
  • 2 tablespoon snipped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

  1. In a large bowl combine flour, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper. Add meat; toss to coat. In a Dutch oven heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil over medium heat. Add half of the meat; cook until browned, stirring occasionally. Remove meat from Dutch oven; set aside. Repeat with another 1 tablespoon of the oil and the remaining meat.

  2. Add onion, garlic, and thyme to Dutch oven. Cook and stir for 3 minutes. Add the one can broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from bottom of the Dutch oven. Add the water and wine. Bring to boiling; reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 1 hour.

  3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F. In a shallow roasting pan combine potatoes and carrots and/or parsnips. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil; sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Toss to coat. Roast, uncovered, for 35 to 45 minutes or until vegetables are tender and lightly browned, stirring once or twice.

  4. Stir barley into beef mixture. Cook about 35 minutes more or until barley is tender. Stir in roasted vegetables. (To serve today, omit Steps 5 and 6 and continue as directed in Step 7.)

  5. Cool stew slightly and transfer to an airtight container. Cover and chill for up to 3 days. (Or transfer to freezer containers. Cover and freeze for up to 2 months.)

  6. To serve, if frozen, thaw mixture in refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. Place thawed or chilled mixture in a Dutch oven and heat over medium heat until bubbly, stirring occasionally. Stir in additional beef broth, if necessary, to reach desired consistency.

  7. If desired, stir in fresh parsley.


Tortellini Florentine Soup

Ingredients

  • 1 9 ounce package refrigerated 3-cheese tortellini
  • 2 14 ounce cans reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 10 ounce container refrigerated light Alfredo pasta sauce
  • 2 cup shredded deli-roasted chicken
  • ½ cup oil-packed dried tomato strips, drained
  • 3 cup lightly packed packaged fresh baby spinach
  • 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, shaved or shredded (optional)

Directions

  1. In 4-quart Dutch oven cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

  2. In the same Dutch oven combine broth and Alfredo sauce. Stir in chicken and tomato strips. Heat just to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes.

  3. Add cooked tortellini and spinach to chicken mixture. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to heat through and wilt spinach. To serve, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Makes 6 servings.


Butternut Squash Bisque

Ingredients

  • 1 2.5-3 pound butternut squash or 3, 12-oz. pkgs. frozen cooked winter squash, thawed
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 large carrot, coarsely chopped
  • 1 stalk celery, coarsely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large Braeburn or Gala apples, peeled, cored and chopped
  • 1 48 ounce box reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
  • 2 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, coarsely chopped
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 3 ounce smoked Gouda or smoked cheddar cheese, finely shredded
  • Crumbled cooked bacon, celery leaves, and/or shaved Gouda cheese (optional)

Directions

  1. Peel, seed, and cube butternut squash. In 6-qt. Dutch oven melt butter over medium-high heat. Add fresh squash (if using frozen squash add with apples and broth), onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Add apples, broth, cider, and peppers. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover; simmer 25 minutes or until vegetables and apples are tender. Remove from heat; cool slightly.

  2. When slightly cooled, puree in pot using an immersion blender. (Or puree in batches in a blender; return soup to saucepan.) Blend in sour cream. Heat through. Remove from heat; stir in shredded Gouda until melted. Top with bacon, celery leaves, and/or Gouda cheese. Makes 8 servings.