Perfect Baked Potato

I am not a big fan of potatoes-mashed/baked/fried.. they just seem so boring!

NOT THIS ONE!!!!!!!!

Best baked potato I've ever made actually. It even got compliments from other, more experienced, potato bakers and eaters.

I guess it could even be just a snack, instead of a side..it was a bit much with this dinner.

You can use any toppings you like: chives, bacon, cheese, olives, corn, beans and even tuna or shredded chicken.

I used what I had- chives, cheddar cheese and some sour cream to top it off.

I like it when the skin is crisp, and I think most people prefer it cooked that way too. In that case, NEVER wrap it in aluminium foil! Just stick it in the oven as is.

I used 3 medium-large potatoes and cooked them for 45 mins at 400 F on the middle oven rack.

Prepping them is easy:

-clean the potatoes

-rub salt and olive oil or butter on them

-poke holes all over it with a fork

Then after baking, take out the fluffy insides and mix them in a bowl with some cheese and chives and put everything back into the "shells". Top them off with more cheese and bake some more until it melts.

They are now ready to eat! garnish with extra chives and sour cream.

Better in Bacon

I was making some steaks for dinner the other day, and totally forgot to make a side- I usually make garlic mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries and a few veggies.

Luckily, I found some asparagus and pears in the fridge... well that wasn't enough for me so I decided to experiment a little and add some bacon to the mix.

I know this doesn't sound like a very healthy or vegetarian option- but was it ever delicious!

I ate so many bacon-wrapped pear slices that my dog had to finish half of my 12 dollar steak.

They can also be quick and simple appetizers- just leave the toothpicks in.

Here is what I used:

1 Bunch of asparagus

2 Pears

1 pack of Bacon

Brown sugar to taste

Salt and Pepper

Cut the Pear into medium slices

Now, start wrapping! To keep the bacon in tact- secure with a toothpick on each end.

season with salt and pepper and sprinkle some brown sugar before baking...the sweetness complements the saltiness of the bacon.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees.

Serve right away while the bacon is hot. These make for a great side as well!