Family traditions are one of the most special ways that we can captivate the joys and memories that we make with our loved ones. From making gingerbread houses, taking family photos, and exchanging cookies, to watching the Macy's Day parade on Thanksgiving, the list is endless. And how fun is that—an endless list of the best of your family's own traditions, some old, some new? Many family traditions include secret family recipes that are pulled out for the most special of occasions. And after all, who doesn't love food? (Everyone's favorite thing, am I right?)
I used to always cook with my nonnie, who loved making food almost as much as she loved God. Some of my favorite family memories include me standing in the kitchen alongside her, cooking pasta, pushing breadcrumbs and seasoning into meatballs, stirring vanilla batter to make the perfect pizzelle, and carving bread. (Can you tell that my family's Italian?) It was always such an amazing experience, being able to cook with her and learn about the recipes that made her food so special. I love to cook as much as I do because of her, and what better way to spread the cooking love than to share a few family recipes along the way?
So, in the spirit of spring, with Easter right around the corner, I decided to share some of my own family's special recipes, in the hopes that you will get to enjoy them as much as we do! I have included two in my article: veggie pizza and homemade banana bread. I hope you enjoy, and let me know if you decide to try one out!
Veggie Pizza
Ingredients
1 package of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
8 oz Cream Cheese
1/2 cup Mayo
1/2 package of Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning
Diced Vegetables (You can use any three your family loves, but I always use broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower!)
Directions
Bake crescent roll dough as instructed on package, with the dough laying flat in a rectangle shape in the pan. Let cool afterward.
Combine cream cheese, mayo, and seasoning and spread evenly over the cooled dough.
Dice your veggies and mix together in a bowl.
Place diced veggies over creamy spread, push lightly down on them so they stick into the spread. Cut into one-inch squares and refrigerate until ready to eat!
Tip: Use veggies you know your guests will like or that provide the color you are looking for. This appetizer goes fast!
Homemade Banana Bread
Ingredients
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup shortening or butter
2 eggs
1.5 cups mashed ripe bananas
1 tsp baking soda
2.5 cups flour
1/2 cups chopped walnuts
1/2 tsp salt
Directions
Mix brown sugar, shortening/butter, and egg thoroughly. Stir in mashed bananas.
Add flour, salt, and baking soda, then blend in walnuts.
Pour and bake in one or two bread tins at 300 degrees, for approximately one hour and 20 minutes.
Do either of these look like something your family would enjoy? If so, give them a try and let me know how they turn out!
Bon Appetite!
