Pureed Vegetables

I included pureed cauliflower and butternut squash in my previous recipe.  I figured that I probably should include how I do that.

Cauliflower...

Take one head of cauliflower (or as many as you want) and steam until soft.  Once it is really soft - can be mashed with a fork - I transfer it to a food processor.  I then get sandwich bags and pour in 1/2 cup of cauliflower - 1 head usually makes around 5 portions.  These can be frozen until needed.  Either defrost naturally or you can dump the frozen portion into your dish - depending on what you add it to.

Butternut Squash...

Cut off the stem, cut the squash in half - lengthwise and scrape out seeds.  Roast the halves, flesh-side down at 400F for 45-50 mins.  Scoop out the flesh and puree in a food processor.  As with cauliflower use the sandwich bags and portion out 1/2 cup each.

Sweet Potatoes...

These can be done several ways.  I tend to do the following...  Peel the potatoes, wash them and cut them up.  Then I steam them until soft - like I do with the cauliflower.  Once soft and easily mashed with the fork - I transfer it to a food processor.

You can also use a blender if you don't have a food processor or prefer.  Personally, I find it easier to use, clean and scoop out portions in the food processor.

7 Layer Lasanga Casserole

It's been awhile since I've posted anything and mostly because life has been crazy!  I am also not currently losing weight or exercising!  Will get back with that side of this blog after the baby is born!!!
Anyways, here is a recipe that we enjoy as a family.  It isn't the healthiest of options but it isn't too bad!  Definitely cheap, easy and tasty - even our 2 1/2 year old will eat it!!!!!

What you will need...

1lb ground beef or turkey - we use turkey (leaner and healthier)
1 24oz jar of spaghetti sauce - could probably use 16oz, adapt as desired.
12oz noodles/pasta - whatever you like.  I use whatever I have on hand but egg-wide noodles is typical
1/2 cup softened cream cheese (low fat or fat free will make it a little healthier)
1/4 cup sour cream (again low fat or fat free will make it a little healthier - check sugar content though)
grated cheese - any works.  We use low-fat mozzarella

optional...
1/2 cup pureed cauliflower
1/2 cup pureed butternut squash

Directions...

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meat, drain and stir in spaghetti sauce and butternut squash.  Cover and simmer for about 15 mins.
Mix together cream cheese, sour cream and cauliflower in a small bowl.
Cook noodles until tender, but not mushy.  Drain.
In a casserole dish - I use a deep, round dish - put a layer of noodles followed by cheese sauce, meat and then repeat.  Top with grated cheese.
Bake at 350F for 15 mins, cover and bake another 10 mins.

* can be put together ahead of time (even the night before) and put in the refrigerator.  Add an extra 10 - 15 mins to your cook time if refrigerated prior to cooking.

Makes about 6 - 8 portions depending on size of dish you use and portion size.

Goes great with a salad and garlic bread!  But then everything goes great with garlic bread - esp home-made - in my opinion!!!

Not the best looking picture but shows you the levels and gives an idea of amount.  This was after 2 meals worth for 2 1/2 people!