Chicken Fingers

Ok, not exactly a very healthy recipe...so put aside your New Years Resolutions for a bit and make some chicken fingers! (If you need some more convincing, Shaun calls these the BEST chicken fingers he's ever had...but maybe he's just buttering me up...make them and decide!)

**Note -- If you really don't want to pan fry these you could likely spritz them with non stick spray and bake them, they won't taste quite the same but I bet they'd still be good!

Jen's Ball Game Meat Balls

This is my friend Jen's recipe for Ball Game meatballs! A sweet and sour meatball with a twist! Don't let the sauerkraut scare you, it adds a subtle sourness to the recipe that's balanced by the cranberry and chili!
I've used frozen meatballs here but you can make your own of course - Jen's hint for fast and easy meatballs - Ground Beef and Stovetop Stuffing!

Saltine Toffee Bar

Don't knock it till you try it! I stumbled upon this unusual treat (what do you call this, a cookie? A square?...) on The Parsley Thief and it seemed similar to something an Aunt of mine used to make with graham crackers so I had to give it a try.

The salty crackers and sweet toffee make a great combination...feel free to top it with nuts, a drizzle of white chocolate or whatever tickles your fancy!

Spinach Falafel

Traditionally deep fried, this recipe for falafel is lightly pan fried for a lighter, healthier result!  The more traditional parsley is also replaced with spinach in this version for an interesting twist!  Prepared in the food processor, the recipe is quick and easy to prepare, but you can also mash the ingredients by hand with a bowl and fork or in a mortar and pestle.

I formed the chickpea mixture into flat rounds and got 6 medium sized patties this way.  You can also shape them into smaller balls and get about 12.  The larger patties make for a great meal on their own with some salad or on a bun.  Smaller falafel would be delicious on their own as a snack or stuffed into warm pita bread.  Either way you serve them, hummous, tzatziki or hot sauce makes a great accompaniment!