#1 Bread and Butter (a personal favorite)

There’s something special about being greeted with a basket of warm bread and butter. The aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, making everyone eager for that first bite before the main course even arrives. It’s a simple touch that instantly makes a meal feel welcoming and memorable.

While classic butter is always delicious, flavored butters make fresh bread even more irresistible. A creamy cinnamon sugar butter adds just the right touch of sweetness, while honey butter melts into every warm slice with rich, comforting flavor. If you prefer something savory, try a jalapeño butter with a little kick, roasted garlic butter, or a blend of fresh herbs. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and a wonderful way to turn an ordinary loaf of bread into something guests will remember long after the meal is over.

Fresh baked, store-bought, any type of bread, rolls, sliced, baguette… and butter, go with European if you want to kick it up, Kerry Irish Butter comes in a spreadable tub for on-the-go ease. Mix in some fresh herbs (and garlic) for a tasty appetizer.

A simple Butter Board could bring a smile to anyone!

Don’t miss this post on how to perfectly toast bread, this is great if you happen fresh bread to crisp the outside, has some lack luster bread and need to make it taste wonderful. Have frozen bread, this will bring it back to that fresh baked yumminess.

Homemade Bread

• 2 loaves of bread and homemade butter
• Aritsan Bread and Compound Flavored Butters
• French Bread
• More Artisan Bread Options
• Jalapeno Butter
• Another great “quick bread” option is Irish Soda Bread
  
  Cornbread and Honey Butter, banana bread, are wonderful alternatives too.
  
  And a fun Crostini option is this Caprese Crostini

#2. Cheese and Crackers

Mix a variety of cheeses, from creamy and mild to sharp and aged, with buttery crackers, crisp artisan crisps, or rustic crostini so guests can create their perfect bite.

A round of brie, goat cheese, or cream cheese paired with crackers is always welcome. And on top, add some…

• Fig Jam– Check out this Fig Jam Dip!
• jalapeño jelly
• pineapple jam

Or your favorite preserves for an easy appetizer everyone will enjoy.

#3. Something to Sip

Bring a bottle of wine, sparkling cider, lemonade, flavored syrup, sparkling water, or ingredients for a fun mocktail.

A bottle of cranberry juice and a few fresh limes can instantly elevate a gathering. Add tequila to make these.

4. A Sweet Treat

My motto? Life is short, eat dessert first!

• Cookies
• pie
• cake
• brownies
• toffee
• candied nuts, and more no-bake desserts

A box of chocolates is always a crowd pleaser.

Sometimes the simplest desserts are the most satisfying. Warm cinnamon apples come together in minutes, and they are perfect over vanilla ice cream… It tastes like warm apple pie!

If you need a last-minute option, stop by a bakery and grab something you love.

5. A Simple Side Dish

For BBQs, cookouts, potlucks, and Friendsgiving, celebrations, and parties, offer to bring a side dish.

• Mac and Cheese
• pasta salad
• potato salad
• stuffing
• potato casserole
• sweet potato casserole
• deviled eggs

Another summer side dish must serve item is baked beans, for cookouts, BBQ’s and fun with sandwichces too.

6. Fresh Fruit

A bowl of seasonal fruit is beautiful. Choose apples any time and especially in the fall, pomegranates, clementines, persimmons in the winter, and strawberries and cherries in the spring.

Stone fruit and watermelon in summer to fall, buy a fruit platter, add in some fresh berries or cherries, or buy fruit and cut it yourself. Here you’ll find the recipes for the fruit dip, what a fun, easy treat.

Make a platter of chocolate covered fuit for any occasion!

7. Flowers (Ready to Display)

Flowers make a wonderful host gift, but don’t hand your host a bouquet that needs trimming and arranging.

Instead, place them in a vase, jar, or pitcher before you arrive (or buy them already arranged) so they can simply set them down and enjoy them.

Desserts that look like flowers, poppies, rose cookies, and pink rose cupcakes

A plant or fresh herbs are other really wonderful options. A basil plant looks and smells great on the kitchen counter. And fresh basil is the key to this simple pasta salad.

8. Ice Cream or Donuts

Sometimes the unexpected gifts are the most memorable.

A box of donuts, ice cream sandwiches, or chocolate-covered ice cream bars can instantly turn an ordinary gathering into a celebration.

Grab a container of ice cream, or make some homemade ice cream with my easy no-churn ice cream recipes.

Don’t underestimate grabbing something you love from a bakery, or the bakery section of a store, maybe a childhood favorite, or just something you haven’t had in a while.

9. A Thoughtful Non-Food Gift

When someone opens their home and invites you over, it’s always nice to arrive with a small token of appreciation.

While food gifts are often the first thing that comes to mind, non-food gifts can be just as thoughtful and are often enjoyed long after the night is over.

From flowers and herbs to kitchen essentials and cozy home accents, these simple gifts are easy to find, budget-friendly, and perfect for showing your gratitude.

A great item is a dish towel, just wrap it in a ribbon or twine and say thank you for the invite. Plain dishtowels, Plaid style dishtowels, any color, Buy in bulk, find your signature gift item, or with fun sayings. How about a fun candle.

Kitchen towels, a fancy salt, even smoked salt, specialty tea, or fresh herbs make great host gifts.

Think about what feels like a small luxury to you. Chances are, it will feel special to someone else, too.

An item typically available at every grocery, dollar-style store, or Amazon has them ready whenever an invite comes along. Pretty paper products, like colorful paper napkins or plates, they have lots of fun items and design options, some have fun sayings, others are seasonally themed.

10. Bring Their Favorite

The more you know about the host, the easier this becomes.

Love coffee? Bring a bag of local coffee beans. If they are a coffee lover, bring them a cup of their favorite, chances are, they’ve been go-go-go all day, and it will be just what they need.

Know they love chocolate? Bring their favorite candy.

Something everyone may love is a bottle of avocado oil or olive oil.

When in doubt, bring something you genuinely enjoy yourself. Make it oor buy it. Maybe it’ll become their favorite, too.

shop my favorites here

One Final Tip

Ask, How can I help?

Sometimes they might need you to pick up ice or lemons. I recall having a party years ago, and as you know, it can get very busy. I ran out of paper towels. Are you thinking, how does that happen?! They sell them in packs of 12 at big box stores, but it did! And a friend texted she was on her way over, and I said, I hope you have a roll of paper towels, I ran out… luckily she did…the day was saved!

There was no way I was heading to the store minutes before everyone arrived, and yes, paper towels are a must in my book when you have a party! But you might need something else. It’s always nice when someone lets you know they’re on their way, just in case a last minute need comes up.

And even a simple thank you note, when you arrive. Thanking them for opening their home to you, for thinking of them, and taking the time to make this day possible. Witih all the planning and preparing, But mostly being thought of is a gift within itself.

And one more thing…

This really fun, simple dessert is the Cannoli Dip. Make it or buy it, I’ve seen some options like this at Trader Joe’s, they sell the dip, just add the dippers. Costco sometimes has it, and so do grocery stores.

The best host gifts don’t have to be expensive, just thoughtful enough to let your host know how much you appreciate their hospitality.

And if you’re looking for the cute pink frosted cake I’m holding in the featured photo at the beginning, I’ve shared the recipe here.

Let’s recap my top 10:

• Bread and Butter
• Cheese and Crackers
• Something to Sip
• A Sweet Treat
• A Simple Side Dish
• Fresh Fruit
• Flowers, herbs, or plants
• Ice Cream or Donuts
• A Thoughtful Non-Food Gift
• Bring Their Favorite

No matter what you bring, the thought behind it is what people remember most. A warm loaf of bread, a favorite dessert, fresh flowers, or a handwritten note are all simple ways to say, “Thank you for having me.” The best host gifts don’t have to be expensive. They just need to come from the heart.

The post What to Bring When You’re Invited Over: 10 Easy Host Recipe and Gift Ideas first appeared on Created by Diane.

If you’ve ever stood in the grocery store wondering how your total climbed so high so fast, you’re not alone. Feeding a family or even just yourself can feel overwhelming right now, but it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or flavor.

These meals are built around simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand, making them practical for real life. They’re the kind of recipes that stretch your budget, fill your table, and still bring that satisfying, homemade feeling everyone craves at the end of the day.

These recipes prove that eating well doesn’t have to mean spending more. With a little creativity and a focus on simple, affordable ingredients, you can put together meals that are comforting, flavorful, and family-friendly without stretching your budget.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just trying to keep grocery costs in check, these dishes make it easy to serve satisfying meals while keeping things practical, approachable, and delicious.

Grilled Mozzarella Cheese
Golden, buttery bread stuffed with melty mozzarella and fresh tomatoes with a balsamic drizzle for the ultimate gooey comfort sandwich that’s simple, satisfying, and incredibly budget-friendly.

Mushroom Soup
A rich and earthy mushroom soup with deep flavor, made with simple ingredients for a cozy bowl that feels gourmet without the cost.

Potato Latkes
Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these classic potato latkes are made with just a handful of ingredients and deliver big flavor on a small budget.

French Bread Pizza
Crispy French bread topped with sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings for a fast, fun, and affordable pizza night at home.

Mexican Fried Rice
Savory fried rice is delicious tossed with some frozen peas and carrots, or add in leftover chicken or a can of black beans. The simple seasonings offer a hearty, one-pan meal that stretches beautifully.

Zucchini Noodles
Light and fresh zucchini noodles tossed with simple seasonings, sauce, and cheese for a great, low-cost meal that’s quick to make and full of flavor.

Irish Potato Soup
A creamy, comforting potato soup, made from humble ingredients that turn into a warm and satisfying meal with a bright citrus flavor.

French Toast
Soft slices of bread soaked in an egg mixture and cooked until golden, creating a comforting, budget-friendly breakfast or dinner option. Add some syrup or powdered sugar to sweeten the meal.

Egg Drop Soup
A silky, soothing soup with delicate ribbons of egg in a flavorful Asian flavored broth, ready in minutes and made with just a few ingredients.

Creamy Zucchini Soup
Smooth and velvety zucchini soup with a mild, fresh flavor, blended into a comforting bowl that’s both affordable and delicious.

Need some more ideas:

• Bean and Cheese Burritos
• Jalapeno Pesto over Pasta
• Caesar Pasta Salad
• Italian Sub Chopped Salad
• Pink Pasta Sauce

Have you missed seeing my other recipes?

Be sure to sign up for my emails here, so you won’t miss any more!

The post Budget Meals, Simple and Satisfying first appeared on Created by Diane.

Golden, fluffy, and just the right amount of cozy, these cornbread muffins are the kind you can’t stop at one.

They’ve got that perfect balance of buttery richness and a hint of sweetness that makes them impossible to resist.

Whether you’re pairing them with chili, serving them at a backyard dinner, or sneaking one straight from the pan, you’re going to want every last crumb.

Keep scrolling because the little tips and tricks ahead are what take these from “good” to absolutely unforgettable!

Options:

It’s always great to have options.

Depending on how many muffins you’d like, this recipe can be easily doubled.

1 recipe 6 muffins, doubled for 12 muffins.

I love that this recipe is simple, has minimal ingredients, and can be multiplied easily.

I have TWO versions I make for moist, fluffy cornbread. If you don’t have or want to use canned creamed corn, sour cream is another great option, and add frozen corn if you’d like corn pieces.

A great alternative to aerosol baking sprays with all the mess is this simple Pan Release.

And this is a great Muffin Pan!

Baking Southern Cornbread

Baking muffins and leaving every other space empty gives space for even heating of muffins, and allows the muffins to rise and dome high.

When all the portions of the muffin pan are full, and the batter is cool or cold, it takes time to heat and rise. With more space, it heats more quickly, providing more rise.

Allow the muffins to cool for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pan, serve warm with your favorite topping… butter, honey butter, maple butter, jalapeno jelly, cream cheese, or mix honey and sour cream.

What else can you add to the cornbread batter… to make the flavor over the top, add cinnamon, maple or maple extract, honey, diced jalapeno, smoked paprika, or some shredded cheese.

If you like them sweet, go right ahead and add sugar or brown sugar to the batter.

While we were RVing through Louisiana this past winter, I whipped up a classic shrimp boil and knew right away this cornbread was the perfect side to go with it!

This is my number one item I bake when camping. I serve it all the time, so many options! I often make this great Pumpkin Muffin version!

Cornbread is a must with soup, stew, chili, and to have them for breakfast, snack, and pop some in the freezer for a rainy day!

Serve cornbread muffins with

• Green Chicken Chili
• Favorite Chili, Baked Beans, and Ribs
• Baked Refried Beans and Eggs
• Sausage Rice and Beans
• Black Bean Soup
• Broccoli White Bean Soup
• Pumpkin Sausage Soup
• Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Taco Salad
• Taco Marinated Chicken
• Chili Verde

Love corn? Give this super tasty Corn Soup a try!

And more corn recipes to try:

• Elote Mexican Corn
• Scalloped Cornbread
• Pan Roasted Corn
• Mexican Corn Pasta Salad
• Corn Bread Pudding
• Cornbread “Tamale” Bites
• Cornbread Pancakes

You’ll find my favorite items here.

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The Best Southern Cornbread Muffins with Jiffy Mix

Simple, moist, delicious cornbread muffin recipe

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword corn, cornbread

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

15 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 6 muffins

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 1 box jiffy cornbread mix
• 1/2 can (14.75oz) creamed corn approximately 1 cup (I typically freeze the other portion to use another time)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Option to use sour cream

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup frozen corn
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 450°
• Prepare every other cup in the muffin pan with a pan release or baking spray/cream. Alternatively, you can line them with cupcake liners.

  If you're looking for cornbread with portion will fit in an 8×8 pan.
• Place all ingredients in a bowl and mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until well combined.
• You will be placing the batter in the prepared cups. About 1/4 cup goes into each muffin cup, divide it evenly.
• Bake at 450° for 15 mintues, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite topping.
• This recipe easily doubles for 12 muffins.

The post The Best Southern Cornbread Muffins with Jiffy Mix first appeared on Created by Diane.

They’re quick, easy, and way more fun (and tastier!) than store bought. Whether you’re topping a fresh salad, dunking into a bowl of soup, or layering your next taco night or tortilla soup, these homemade favorites will take your everyday dishes to the next level.

Homemade Croutons – Perfect for tossing into Caesar salads, garden salads, or even serving as a crunchy topping for soup. Just cube up some day-old bread, drizzle with olive oil and seasoning, and bake until golden. The smell alone will make you hungry! A perfect item to munch on when your snack cabinet is empty.

Crispy Wontons – Fry or bake them, and you’ll have the ultimate soup topper or party snack. They’re light, airy, and perfectly crunchy. Dip them in sauce, float them in chicken soup, or crumble them over an Asian-inspired salad. (don’t forget you’ll be able to bake or fry them)

Tortilla Chips – Nothing beats a warm tortilla chips, perfect for dipping into Salsa, Guacamole, and serving with this Taco Dip. (Flour or corn tortillas!)

One of my favorite recipes to make with tortillas is these tortilla “empanadas.” I make them with beef and cheese, and often add black beans and sweet potatoes with taco seasoning, they’re so yummy! The possibilities are endless, and it’s a super-easy shortcut recipe. Other flavor options are chicken and spinach, ham and cheese, and pork with salsa verde.

The best part?

All three are ready in minutes and can be customized with your favorite seasonings and spices. Think garlic and parmesan croutons, sesame wontons, or tortillas flavored with herbs or cinnamon sugar. Once you start making these at home, you’ll wonder why you ever bought them pre-packaged.

So grab some pantry staples, turn on your oven or skillet, and get ready to crunch, munch, and enjoy homemade croutons, wontons, and tortillas. These little bites of joy will make your salads, soups, and dinners a whole lot more exciting!

There are three ways to cook them: bake, fry, or air fry. You choose what method you’d like and whip up some yumminess in minutes.

I often make croutons for salads and get asked, what brand are these, they are way better than the ones I buy… so funny. It’s because they are homemade!

And be sure to check out my BEST TIP for toasting bread, old bread, stale bread, just so-so bread…. this tip is GENIUS <<< no matter what kind of bread, old, stale, frozen… you need to try this.

For recipes on making bread, look here, here, and here… and make some of this if you have extra bread!

Speaking of wontons and tortillas- you have to try these.

• Tortilla Empanadas– one of my favorite go-to quick, easy meals my family devours!
• Southwest Chicken– wontons or eggrolls, use Asian wrappers or flour tortillas, make them big or small!
• Wonton wrappers make the cutest appetizers, these are a must make.
  
  
  
  

and more fun with eggrolls…

• Corned Beef and Cabbage Eggrolls
• Texas Egg Rolls
• Salmon Egg Rolls
• Avocado Chipotle Egg Rolls

While most restaurants deep fry croutons, wontons, and tortillas. I wanted to share how to make great-tasting items without the need to fry them, If you don’t want to… fried is always yummy, but baked is great too.

Another option is to use an air frier… so you can easily have those crunchy, delicious items you crave for lots of meals.

• Tortilla Soup
• Caesar Salad
• Pumpkin Sausage Soup
• Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
• Mushroom Soup
• Tomato Bisque
• Broccoli Cheese Soup

• Caesar Pasta Salad

Flour tortillas… fried, so yummy with hummus and guacamole, not as great with salsa as it’s so wet, but that’s what corn tortillas are for, right?

When I’m cooking dinner, I often cut up a flour tortilla and heat it up for someone to snack on, and often dip it in hummus!

Great items to serve with fried flour tortillas:

• Goat Cheese Guacamole
• Crab Rangoon Dip

More items to make with tortillas:

• Air Fryer Tortillas and more Air Fryer Recipes!
• Grilled Cinnamon Apple à la Mode Tacos

And one of my favorite snacks that are fried is these Fried Tortellini. I make them on cold winter afternoons, when we have dinner parties. They are super easy and only take minutes to make, and everyone is impressed. You can also use refrigerated ravioli (both large and mini work well).

And if you have some hot oil… no better time to make some funnel cake from scratch, or quick and easy funnel cake using pancake mix. honestly if I’m going to fry things in oil, I often make a small funnel first. I rarely go to fairs, and funnel cake is irresistible!

Give this chocolate funnel cake a try!

Now, if you’d like some more fried yumminess, put these on your must make list. Fried Oreos, Rosette Cookies,

And if you want the yummiest pork wontons, skip the take-out and make them!

I think potatoes are underrated, and if you do too, make these potato pancakes/latkes. These are a crowd pleaser. I typically use 5 lbs of potatoes, but you can make any amount you’d like!

And if potatoes are your thing, here are some more great potato recipes:

Crispy Baked French Fries

Use wonton wrappers to make wonton cups… and fill them with all sorts of yummy fillings, from artichoke dip, to crab rangoon filling, shrimp, and so much more!

If you like how-to posts… I have more. Check out some fun how-to items here.

And once you make those chips, you’ll need something to dip them into…

• Chips and Salsa or Pico De Gallo– Crunchy chips paired with fresh, bright salsa or pico for a classic crowd pleaser.
• Green Olive Dip– Creamy and savory with a salty olive bite that keeps everyone coming back.
• Goat Cheese Crostini– Toasty crostini topped with creamy goat cheese for a simple yet elegant appetizer.
• Cottage Cheese Taco Dip– Creamy, protein-packed dip with bold taco flavors and a fresh finish.
• Pizza Dip– All the flavors of your favorite pizza baked into a warm, cheesy dip.
• Crab Rangoon Dip– Creamy crab dip with a hint of sweetness inspired by the classic appetizer.
• Texas Egg Rolls with Jalapeno Pepper Jelly- Crispy egg rolls filled with bold Texas-style flavors, dipped in sweet and spicy jalapeño pepper jelly that is also delicious poured over whipped goat cheese or cream cheese.

I often crisp up some flour tortillas I’ve sprayed with oil on the black stone for a snack while I’m cooking, dip them in a little hummus, so I can keep the rest of the food on the grill and not have all of it eaten by the time I’m done cooking. Also, I fill tacos and crisp them up before being filled, and once they are filled, if needed. It helps to melt the cheese a bit if cheese is added.

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How to Make Homemade Croutons, Wontons, and Tortilla Chips

turning bread into croutons, wonton wrappers into cups or strips, and tortillas into chips in just a few easy steps

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword appetizer, bread, snack

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Notes

Choose what you’ll be making.

Bread for croutons, any style bread will work, fresh, stale, ot frozen. If it’s fresh, cut it into 1″ pieces and place it on a baking sheet, and dry it out in the oven at 350 for 5 minutes, toss to get the other side exposed, and bake another 5 minutes. About 10 minutes total.

For wontons, purchase wonton wrappers, big or small, and cut them into the desired shape. I typically buy the small square wrappers and slice them into strips.

Tortillas, corn or flour, can be cut into strips, triangles, or any shape you’d like with a cookie cutter.

For frying: preheat 2 inches of neutral oil (I use avocado oil) in a saucepan to 350°. Place the item you’re frying and cook about 3 mintues tossing it so it coats oil on all sides and gets evenly cripsy. A slotted metal spoon or tongs work well. Drain on paper towels and salt if desired.

Oven Baked: Toss the items you’ll be baking with a little oil, or use oil in a sprayer… so it’s lightly coated, add garlic or other seasonings (or cinnamon sugar) and bake in a preheated 400° oven for 5 minutes, or until desired crispiness. Croutons usually take 10 minutes as they are thicker than any “strips”.

Air fryer: Spray or coat the desired items with some oil and air fry. Alternatively, don’t use any oil if desired. I like a little oil; it gives them all a nicer crunch. 350° 5-10 minutes.

I often crisp up some flour tortillas I’ve sprayed with oil on the black stone for a snack while I’m cooking, dip them in a little hummus, so I can keep the rest of the food on the grill and not have all of it eaten by the time I’m done cooking.

The flavor possibilities are endless. Add the flavors you like, or keep it simple with a seasoning salt, lemon pepper, dry ranch flavor, or something out of your spice cabinet you love.

The items baked will likely be a bit chewier than fried, but it’s great to have a quick option to frying and to add a punch of fun to what your serving!

The post How to Make Homemade Croutons, Wontons, and Tortilla Chips first appeared on Created by Diane.

Sharing is caring! And I know right away I’ve made a friend when they share as freely as I do. I’m grateful to find newly inspired recipes, you just never know where they’ll pop up. I’ve had prepared polenta and polenta at restaurants, but never made it myself, until recently…

And with the help of a friend. You know who you are… Frank and I think about our visit to your home and the delicious meal with polenta often.

I now make polenta all the time. I’m totally hooked on it. I knew it was time to share all the details with you.

Do you have a favorite way to make or serve polenta or eat it?

Options to add to meals so they aren’t the same old items. Although, don’t get me wrong, I love my old favorites! It was suggested I reduce items that cause inflammation, and I started eating more polenta. I’ve made this polenta many times and am sharing it with you to have in your arsenal to whip up in minutes, and it’s so delicious. Has a great texture, is buttery, cheesy, and delicious.

I use this polenta and it always tastes delicious. Comes out perfectly every time.

What else can I add to polenta?

There are lots of items you can add. My number one is butter. Oh, how I love butter!

If you’d like it on the sweet side, add some cinnamon and sugar, maple syrup, brown sugar, berries, or jam. Think of it as a version of a corn muffin, all warm and yummy.

For savory options, add some diced jalapenos, caramelized onions, garlic, lemon, some PB and J, some roasted or grilled peppers and tomatoes, or try some Old Bay and shrimp, and you’ll have a southern, slightly Creole flavor. Add black beans, roasted jalapenos, and corn for a great side dish to fish, tacos, and be sure to make and serve polenta with grilled steak and chimichurri sauce.

Another option is to use grits, while polenta and grits are not the same, they are similar.

Why serve polenta?

It’s a great alternative to floury carbs, perfect for gluten-free eaters, and it’s so quick to make. Polenta and grits can help with anti-inflammatory properties. If you are looking for more items that may help reduce sugar spikes, help keep you fuller longer, be sure to look at my post on Resistant Starch!

Grits have more texture than polenta. /you can use the same method and portions to cook 5 minute quaker grits.

Ok, let’s talk CHEESE

My favorite cheese to use is Romano Cheese, finely grated.

There are many other great cheese options, jalapeno and cheddar, another great flavor combination.

Use your favorite cheese. Is it Swiss, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, whichever cheese is your favorite, give it a try!

Serve polenta with shrimp just like you would grits… quick and easy comfort food!

This is the perfect side dish to so many meals, from beef to chicken and pork, great served with eggs or grilled vegetables!

If you’re looking for more cheesy favorites, try:

• Mac and Cheese
• Ham and Cheese Soup
• Mozzarella Grilled Cheese (Caprese)
• Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese
• Beer and Cheese Dip (Always a party favorite)
• Pizza Dip Another fun appetizer, and perfect when you want pizza but want it simple… snacky, the perfect no-fuss item!

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Polenta with Cheese (or grits)

Perfectly cooked polenta with butter and cheese gives this side dish a nice kick, comfy, creamy, and delicious. Add jalapeno and cheddar to make it a great side dish to Mexican food.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American, Italian

Keyword cheese, corn, side dish

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 3 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 cup polenta I use Bob's Red Mill Polenta
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon I use Knorr chicken flavor
• 1 cup finely grated Romano Cheese 2.5 oz
• 3 tablespooons butter

Instructions

• In a 2-quart pot, bring water to a boil.
• Stir in the polenta and keep mixing so it doesn't clump.
• Add chicken bouillon, bring back to a small boil while stirring.
• Turn the temperature to low and cook for 5 minutes.
• Stir in cheese and any additional items. Place the lid on top and turn the burner off. Set a timer for 2 minutes.
• Remove the lid and stir. It's ready to serve.

Notes

There are lots of items you can add. My number one is butter. Oh, how I love butter! If you’d like it on the sweet side, add some cinnamon and sugar, maple syrup, brown sugar, berries, or jam. Think of it as a version of a corn muffin, all warm and yummy.

For some savory options, add some diced jalapenos, caramelized onions, garlic, lemon, some PB and J, some roasted or grilled peppers and tomatoes, or try some Old Bay and shrimp, and you’ll have a southern, slightly Creole flavor. Add black beans, roasted jalapenos, and corn for a great side dish to fish, tacos, and grilled beef ro chicken.

The post Polenta with cheese (or grits) first appeared on Created by Diane.

So many ideas roll around this time of year!

from savory to sweet, I have a fun line up for you.

Starting with…

• Roast Beef Stackers– Tender roast beef layered on crackers with horseradish for an easy, hearty bite.
• Salad Dippers– A walking salad making it perfect for a party.
• Pork Wontons– Golden and crispy wontons filled with seasoned pork and packed with flavor.
• Cannoli Dip– Sweet, creamy ricotta style dip with classic cannoli flavor, perfect for dipping cookies or fruit.
• Chicken Meatballs– Juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs that are easy to grab and always a crowd favorite.
• Whisky Fudge– Rich, smooth fudge with a subtle whisky kick for a grown-up sweet treat.
• Fried Tortellini– Crispy fried tortellini with a cheesy center, ideal for dipping and snacking.
• Toffee– Buttery, crunchy toffee with a deep caramel flavor that melts in your mouth.

What will be eating, drinking, and snacking on…

And don’t think mimosa’s are just for brunch this strawberry lemonade mimosa is perfect!

Add some booze to this fun and simple whipped coffee and let the party roll all the way past midnight!

Blackberry Bourbon Smash, fun and fruity!

And my personal favorite Bourbon drink… A Kentucky Dirty!

Keep it simple with some easy dip recipes:

• Chips and Salsa or Pico De Gallo– Crunchy chips paired with fresh, bright salsa or pico for a classic crowd pleaser.
• Green Olive Dip– Creamy and savory with a salty olive bite that keeps everyone coming back.
• Goat Cheese Crostini– Toasty crostini topped with creamy goat cheese for a simple yet elegant appetizer.
• Cottage Cheese Taco Dip– Creamy, protein packed dip with bold taco flavors and a fresh finish.
• Pizza Dip– All the flavors of your favorite pizza baked into a warm, cheesy dip.
• Crab Rangoon Dip– Creamy crab dip with a hint of sweetness inspired by the classic appetizer.
• Texas Egg Rolls with Jalapeno Pepper Jelly- Crispy egg rolls filled with bold Texas-style flavors, dipped in sweet and spicy jalapeño pepper jelly that is also delicious poured over whipped goat cheese or cream cheese.

Serve this in a hot skillet, and everyone can dive in with a fork, or serve it over pasta for a fun dinner. This Chicken Parmesan Recipe is OUTSTANDING!

The post New Year’s Eve Appetizers and Sweets first appeared on Created by Diane.

This bright and flavorful Pineapple Salsa is the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and a little spicy!

Whether you use fresh pineapple when it’s in season or canned pineapple for convenience, this recipe comes together in minutes and adds a tropical twist to just about anything. I love that it’s so versatile, canned or fresh, it’s a dream come true!

It’s delicious served with tortilla chips for snacking, spooned over grilled chicken or fish, or piled high on your favorite tacos for a burst of juicy flavor.

With everyday ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this salsa in no time at all.

What ingredients go into this salsa:

• pineapple- canned or fresh, chopped fine
• onion- I like white onion, use any onion variety you prefer, green onions for mild flavor
• peppers- I like using sweet peppers, red, orange, and yellow. Adding bursts of great color
• jalapeno- giving this salsa a great kick of flavor without overpowering it with spice (unless you want it super-spicy, add as much as you want)
• cilantro- deliciously fresh flavor every salsa needs!
• lime-juiced for a nice zip and contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple
• salt- coarse kosher salt

Scoop it up with your favorite chips and devour!

More great items to put this pineapple salsa on:

• On top of these bowls, quinoa bowls, or this taco salad
• Give it a try with this Chinese Chicken Salad
• As a topping for cottage cheese for a fun, savory snack
• Try it on some avocado toast or put it on top of cream cheese toast
• Grill some chicken and vegetables, then pile on the pineapple salsa for that sweet-tangy combo.
• And give it a try on these pork tenderloin tacos

Serve it alongside your favorite meals. It’s great with tacos!

Looking for some low-carb options, put this on top of grilled fish or shrimp and enjoy!

It’s so flavorful, it’s bound to become your new favorite item!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Salsa

• Versatile: Use fresh or canned pineapple—whatever you have on hand.
• Quick to make: Just chop, mix, and enjoy!
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for cookouts, taco nights, or as a fresh party dip.
• Full of flavor: Sweet pineapple pairs perfectly with zesty lime, cilantro, and a hint of spice.

I love wavy-edged plates and bowls. I couldn’t find the dishes I have, but I now have my eye on this dish, it has a pretty wavy edge.

More great pineapple recipes!
… be sure not to miss one of my all-time favorite meals, Luau Fried Rice

This Pineapple Salsa is your go-to for adding a burst of sunshine to any meal! Quick, colorful, and incredibly fresh-tasting, it’s a recipe you’ll make again and again.

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Pineapple Salsa (Canned or Fresh Pineapple)

This Pineapple Salsa is your go-to for adding a burst of sunshine to any meal! Quick, colorful, and incredibly fresh-tasting — it’s a recipe you’ll make again and again.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword pineapple

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 1 16oz canned pineapple or fresh (drained) any variety, tidbits, chunks or rings
• 1/2 cup sweet peppers, chopped (red, orange, yellow)
• 1/2 cup onion, I like white, use any onion variety
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeno, finely diced Use as much or as little as you prefer
• 1-2 whole lime, juiced depends on how much juice they render.
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse Kosher salt add more if desired

Instructions

• Chop the drained pineapple into small pieces.
• Add all ingredients into a bowl and stir well to combine.
• Place in fridge until cold. The flavors will meld together. This can be made a day ahead.

The post Easy Pineapple Salsa Recipe (Fresh or Canned Pineapple) first appeared on Created by Diane.

These savory pumpkin recipes bring out the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin in soups, pastas, side dishes, and more

Think pumpkin is just for pie?

These savory pumpkin recipes will change your mind with delicious soups, creamy pastas, and flavorful sides.

Pumpkin adds richness, depth, and a hint of earthiness that works beautifully in savory dishes.

From creamy soups and hearty pastas to spiced chili and flavorful dips, here are some delicious savory pumpkin recipes to try this season.

• Pumpkin Deviled Eggs– A festive twist on deviled eggs with creamy filling and pumpkin flair, perfect for parties.
• 2 Ingredient Pumpkin Pasta– Quick and cozy pasta made with just 2 ingredients, you won’t believe how simple this is.
• Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce– Rich, creamy Alfredo gets a seasonal upgrade with silky pumpkin purée.
• Garlic Pumpkin Mashed Potatoes– Buttery mashed potatoes blended with pumpkin and garlic for a flavorful side dish.
• Pumpkin Sausage Soup– Hearty, savory soup with pumpkin, sausage, and spices for a warming bowl of comfort. Give my Tomato Bisque a try, or how about some French Onion Soup!
• Pumpkin Vodka Sauce with Chicken Meatballs– Creamy vodka sauce infused with pumpkin and served with delicious chicken meatballs.
• Pumpkin Jalapeno Chili– Bold, mildly spicy chili, tender beans, and pumpkin’s earthiness.

I spotted these cute Pumpkin Covered Dishes and can’t stop thinking about them, so many things would look great in them! And this white pumpkin is calling to me!

• Roasted Pumpkin– Slice up that pumpkin and get roasting, it makes a great side dish!
• Pumpkin Mac and Cheese- coming soon
• Pumpkin Seeds– Crispy with this one trick
• Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon– a fun flavor for the risotto lover
• Pumpkin Sauce with Bacon– (black and orange spaghetti)

Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins– with Cinnamon Butter. Yes, please!

DON’T miss this fun post on Halloween Handouts and some Easy Halloween Costumes I’ve worn!

Who’s looking forward to the biggest meal of the year… If you’d like some help simplifying THANKSGIVING, take a look here.

Maybe you’re not ready for the big day, but can’t stop thinking about all the yummy flavors.

This “fake” Thanksgiving meal is a great weeknight alternative!

Or give these fabulous Hot Turkey Sandwiches a try.

And if you happen to be looking ahead to Christmas, this post might help you simply the most hectic time of year: Simplify Christmas!

And if you are looking forward to getting in the kitchen and baking Christmas cookies…

Look here for Christmas Cookie Recipes, and here for cookie baking tip!

The post Savory Pumpkin Recipes Cozy Fall Soups, Pastas, Sides, and More first appeared on Created by Diane.

These muffins are the perfect blend of sweet pumpkin flavor and hearty cornbread texture — a cozy side for chili, soups, or holiday dinners.

Quick to make with a Jiffy mix shortcut, they taste homemade and festive in every bite!

Soft, moist, and full of fall flavor, these Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins are made with a simple box of Jiffy mix and a swirl of pumpkin puree.

Perfect with chili, soup, or as a holiday, for breakfast, or a side dish!

There’s something about cornbread and pumpkin that just feels like fall — warm, cozy, and comforting.

These Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins start with a box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix and a scoop of pumpkin puree, making them the easiest (and tastiest) way to bring seasonal flavor to your table.

These bake up a mile high! And the tops have a nice cinnamon sugar crunch without them being overly sweet. They are the perfect item to serve with Chili or my favorite Pumpkin Jalapeno Chili, after all, it’s pumpkin season.

And if you have more pumpkin puree, be sure to make these pumpkin scones too.

Now onto the cinnamon butter, it’s perfect on these muffins, it adds delicious flavor to these pumpkin cornbread muffins.

These muffins, plus the cinnamon butter, are just like a warm, cozy hug!

I keep a jar of Cinnamon-Sugar in my kitchen cabinet.

Oh, I’ll have to share all the fun uses… for this, just sprinkle it onto soft butter and mix until smooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Starts with a Jiffy mix, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect Texture: Moist, fluffy, and lightly sweet.
• Versatile: Great with soups, stews, chili, or as a Thanksgiving side.
• Freezer-Friendly: Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months — they reheat beautifully!

These Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins are one of those recipes that make your kitchen smell amazing — cozy spices, warm pumpkin, and a hint of sweet cornbread.

They’re perfect for everything from tailgating to Thanksgiving dinner.

This gives you another great reason to have pumpkin puree in your pantry year-round.

These taste fantastic and you’ll want to enjoy them long after the Fall season ends.

Serve them with chili, roasted turkey, or a pat of cinnamon butter… and watch them disappear fast!

Looking for great muffin pans, give these a try. I have 3 of them.

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Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins

full of cozy fall flavor, great with chili, soup, or a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or cinnamon butter!

Course Bread

Cuisine American

Keyword cornbread, pumpkin

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 1 8.5 oz box Jiffy cornbread mix
• 2 large eggs You'll start with 2 eggs, mix one egg in a small bowl, then remove 1 1/2 tablespoons to use in recipe (discard the remaining egg)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons coarse turbinado sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon sugar mixture 4 parts sugar, 1 part cinnamon

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 450°
• In a medium bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, butter, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
• Mix until all ingredients are combined with a wooden spoon or spatula.
• Let the batter rest 10 minutes. This will allow the cornmeal in the recipe to rehydrate, creating a moist muffin and allowing it to rise up high when baking.
• Prepare 6 portions of a 12-compartment muffin pan (every other)
• Fill each of the 6-compartments. Each portion will get about 1/4 cup. This will result in a high-domed muffin.
• Sprinkle each portion with cinnamon sugar mixture, then add some coarse turbinado sugar.
• Bake at 450° for 15 minutes, a toothpick should come out clean.

Notes

This recipe easily doubles. But do not use 1 muffin pan and fill all compartments, to ensure the muffins rise high, skip every other. Use two 12-muffin pans to bake 12 muffins.

The post Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins with Jiffy Mix – Quick & Delicious first appeared on Created by Diane.

Rice is endlessly customizable, and in this recipe, you can make it as citrusy as you would like it.

Other flavors to add in are garlic, onion,

Note on lime zest: I don’t prefer lime zest in the rice, it tends to stick to people’s teeth and has a stronger taste than expected. I prefer to use more lime juice for more flavor. But go right ahead and use some lime zest if desired.

A mix of lemon and lime juice is a great combination for a fresh citrusy flavor. Don’t forget to add some salt. I prefer coarse kosher salt; table salt has such a metallic taste, and since the grains are so small, it can easily be over-salted.

And onto the cilantro, now this is one item I just LOVE, be sure to chop it fine so it blends in the rice easily. If you want to see more cilantro, serve it garnished with long cilantro sprigs.

How much cilantro is really up to you. I typically start with a small bunch and then chop it. When I measured it, the cilantro was less than 1/2 cup chopped. If you measure before chopping, it can be pressed into one cup loosely. I find it’s the right amount when you can see the green cilantro throughout the rice. Use as much as you’d like!

If you’d like to spice up this rice, saute a finely diced jalapeno in the oil before cooking the rice, or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when you mix the lime and cilantro into the hot rice.

I’ve made rice using all sorts of varieties of rice and many cooking methods over the years. And while all provide cooked rice, I have my preference. I prefer jasmine rice. I sauté the rice in oil until the rice is slightly opaque and hot, then add the water and salt, and bring the water to a boil. Then, cover the pot and cook on low. Then fluff the rice, place the lid back on for another 5 minutes.

When you saute the rice, add in the onion and jalapeno if using it.

Then add in the remaining items, lime juice, lemon juice, and cilantro.

Additional options to add in at the end, like crushed red pepper, make it spicy with some diced jalapeno, add a little butter, and you’re rice is ready to serve.

This side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any Mexican recipe!

• Mexican Rice Recipe
• Taco Salad
• Mexican Corn Macaroni Salad
• Taco Marinated Chicken
• Pan Roasted Corn
• Chili Verde
• Elote Mexican Corn on the Cob
• Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
• Chili Lime Chicken Pea Tacos

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Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice is a game changer, fresh, zesty, and super versatile. With a few tips, you'll enjoy restaurant style rice in minutes.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American, Mexican

Keyword cilantro, lime, rice, side dish

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 2 cups jasmine rice (The jasmine rice I use portions are 1 cup rice to 1 1/2 cups water) Use the portions on the package of rice you use.
• 2 teaspoons oil, I use avocado oil
• 3 cups water
• 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, loosely packed , about 1/2 cup chopped
• 2-4 whole limes, juiced , about 2-4 tablespoons lime juice
• 1/2 fresh lemon, juiced ,1-2 tablespoons

optional

• 1 teasppon garlic paste or finely minced garlic
• 1/4 cup finely diced white onion
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 fresh jalapeno, diced fine
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

• In a 2-quart pot, heat the oil, then add rice and stir and cook the rice until it's hot and half the rice is opaque. Stir in the diced onion and/or jalapeno if using it.
• Add the water and salt, stir well. Then bring the water to a boil. Turn the temperature to low.
• Time the rice according to package instructions. Jasmine rice cooks for 15 minutes.
• Remove the lid, fluff the rice, place the lid back on, and set the timer for 5 minutes.
• Add in the chopped cilantro, garlic if using it, lime juice, and lemon juice (and any other additional items like crushed red pepper or jalapeno). Add butter if desired.
• Top with additional cilantro and serve.

The post Cilantro Lime Rice first appeared on Created by Diane.