25 chocolate sandwich cookies, such as Oreos, plus more crumbs for serving
6 Tbsp. salted butter, melted
1/4 c. raspberries, plus more for serving
3 Tbsp. granulated sugar
2 (6-oz.) containers of raspberry yogurt
1 (3.4-oz) package of instant vanilla pudding mix
1 c. heavy whipping cream
Whipped cream, to serve
Directions
1. To make the crust, preheat the oven to 350°F. Crush the cookies in a food processor (or smash them in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin). Stir in the melted butter until all combined. Pour into a regular pie pan and press the crumbs all over the pan and up the sides. Bake for 3 to 6 minutes—just long enough for it to set. Cool the crust completely.
2. Place raspberries on a plate or in an empty pan. Smash them with a fork, then sprinkle on the sugar. Stir it all together and allow to sit for 15 minutes.
3. In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the yogurt with the pudding mix (just the powder itself). Beat on low speed until combined, about 1 minute. Pour in the cream and whip on low speed for 30 seconds. Stop the mixer and scrape down the bowl with a rubber spatula. Turn the mixer on medium-high speed and beat until the mixture is thick, 2 minutes.
4. Turn off the mixer, then fold in the raspberries until just combined. Pour into the cooled pie pan and spread evenly. Freeze until very firm, 2 hours. Cut into slices and top each slice with cookie crumbs, dollops of whipped cream, and extra raspberries. Keep in the freezer, allowing time to thaw before serving.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com
Cooking with your children can be a delightful and educational experience. Not only does it provide an opportunity for family bonding, but it also helps kids develop essential life skills. Here are some fun and easy recipes, along with tips to make cooking with your little ones a joy.
Benefits of Cooking with Kids
Encourages Healthy Eating Habits: Kids are more likely to try new foods when they help prepare them.
Develops Fine Motor Skills: Tasks like stirring, measuring, and pouring improve hand-eye coordination.
Teaches Math and Science: Measuring ingredients, following steps, and observing changes during cooking teach basic math and science concepts.
Promotes Teamwork: Working together in the kitchen teaches kids cooperation and communication skills.
Tips for Cooking with Kids
Choose Age-Appropriate Tasks: Younger kids can help with mixing and pouring, while older children can handle more complex tasks like chopping (with supervision).
Be Patient and Keep It Fun: Focus on the experience rather than perfection. Mistakes are part of the learning process.
Prioritize Safety: Teach kids about kitchen safety, including handling utensils properly and staying away from hot surfaces.
Make It Educational: Turn cooking into a learning opportunity by discussing ingredients, measurements, and cooking techniques.
Fun and Easy Recipes
Here are some kid-friendly recipes that are simple, tasty, and perfect for little hands to help with.
1. Mini Pizzas
Ingredients:
English muffins or pita bread
Pizza sauce
Shredded cheese
Assorted toppings (pepperoni, olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, etc.)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Have your child spread pizza sauce on each English muffin or pita bread.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the sauce.
Let them add their favorite toppings.
Place the mini pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Roll up the tortilla tightly and slice it into pinwheels or serve as a whole wrap.
Cooking with kids can be a rewarding experience that fosters creativity, learning, and a love for healthy eating. By involving your children in the kitchen, you’re not only teaching them valuable skills but also creating cherished memories. So, grab your aprons, wash those hands, and start cooking up some fun together!
And if a new kitchen in which to have some fun with the kids is in your future, our Licata Group real estate advisors are happy to make that happen!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
4 teaspoons garlic powder 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves salt and pepper to taste
4 sprigs fresh rosemary 4 thick slices of bacon
Directions
1. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat, and lightly oil the grate. 2. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon garlic powder on each chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Lay one rosemary sprig on each chicken breast. Wrap bacon around the chicken to hold the rosemary on. Secure bacon with a toothpick or an additional thick rosemary stem. 3. Cook chicken breasts until no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 8 minutes per side. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Stay near the grill to combat any flare-ups from the bacon. Remove the toothpicks before serving.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
cooking spray 2 (8-ounce) packages of refrigerated crescent roll dough (such as Pillsbury® Recipe Creations®), divided 2 lemons, zested and juiced, divided
2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened ½ cup white sugar 2 tablespoons butter, melted 3 tablespoons white sugar
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with aluminum foil and coat with cooking spray.
2. Unroll 1 crescent roll of dough; press into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, stretching to the edges.
3. Mix together lemon juice and 3/4 of the lemon zest in a large bowl. Beat cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar into the juice-zest mixture with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy; spread over crescent roll dough in the baking dish.
4. Unroll the remaining crescent roll dough and place over the cream cheese mixture, stretching to the edges. Brush melted butter on top. Mix together 3 tablespoons sugar and remaining lemon zest in a small bowl; sprinkle over melted butter.
5. Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown, about 30 minutes. Allow to cool for about 20 minutes.
6. Lift the dessert from the baking dish using foil; transfer it to a cutting board. Cut into squares, leaving on foil. Return dessert to the baking dish and refrigerate until chilled at least 1 hour.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market
condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
1 pound baby bok choy, leaves separated and cut into 1 ½-inch pieces if large
1 carrot, finely grated
2 tablespoons white vinegar
6 ounces fresh wonton wrappers
Kosher salt
Directions
1. Heat oil and red pepper flakes in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and scallion whites. Cook, stirring, until scallions are tender, about 1 minute. Add pork, breaking up with a spoon until cooked through, about 3 minutes. Add bok choy; cover and steam until tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add carrots. Season with vinegar and salt. Set aside.
2. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil. Season with salt. Add wonton wrappers one at a time. Cook until al dente, about 1 minute. Drain. Add wonton wrappers to the skillet and toss. Serve with scallion greens.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or
contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
1 (8-ounce) package of refrigerated crescent rolls 4 eggs ¼ cup milk ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon ground cumin ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 2 tablespoons butter ¼ cup chopped red bell pepper 1 jalapeno pepper seeded and chopped 1 tablespoon vegetable oil1 (15 ounce) can HORMEL® Mary Kitchen® Corned Beef Hash 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided Salsa for serving
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Separate crescent rolls and arrange them on the parchment paper in a circle with the short sides of triangles forming a 4-inch circle; overlap the edges of the pieces. Press dough where it overlaps to flatten. 3. Whisk eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl. 4. Melt butter on medium-low heat in a nonstick pan. Add chopped red peppers and jalapeno peppers. Cook and stir until tender, about 5 minutes. Pour in eggs. Gently scramble, pushing, and lifting eggs until just set about 3 minutes. Remove from heat. 5. Heat vegetable oil on medium heat in a nonstick pan. Add Hormel Corned Beef Hash. Cook and stir until heated through and beginning to brown 8 to 10 minutes. 6. Spoon corned beef hash around the crescent roll ring. Top with 1/2 cup shredded cheese and scrambled eggs. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese. 7. Pull the points of each triangle over the hash, eggs, and cheese and carefully tuck them under the center to form a ring. Some areas will have exposed filling. 8. Bake in preheated oven until browned, about 20 to 25 minutes. 9. Let cool for 3 minutes before serving. Serve with salsa.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or
contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or
contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
In a large saucepan, heat butter and oil over medium heat until butter is melted. Add onion; cook and stir until tender, 5-7 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in tomatoes, chicken stock, tomato paste, basil, salt, sugar, thyme and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, to let flavors blend, 20-25 minutes.
Remove pan from heat. Using a blender, puree soup until smooth. Return to pan. Slowly stir in cream. Cook and stir over low heat until heated through. If desired, garnish with basil and additional cream.
Hint: Elevate your tomato soup experience with a sidekick of golden, gooey grilled cheese.
3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon pepper, divided
1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and halved
Directions
Preheat oven to 425°. In a large bowl, combine eggs, tomato juice, oats, onion and salt. Add beef; mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape into six 4×2-1/2-in. loaves; place on a sheet pan or in a large shallow roasting pan. Combine ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and nutmeg; brush over loaves.
Combine potatoes with 2 tablespoons oil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper; toss to coat. Add to pan in a single layer. Bake loaves and potatoes for 25 minutes.
Combine asparagus with remaining 1 tablespoon oil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper; toss to coat. Add to pan. Bake until a thermometer inserted into meat loaves reads 160° and vegetables are tender, 15-20 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Start by filling your containers with smaller items like nuts and grapes, distributing them evenly. (If you wanted to use a dip instead, you could add that here.)
Tuck the crackers towards the back of the container, leaving some space in the front for the toothpick-skewered items.
Using toothpicks, skewer a variety of ingredients such as cheeses, meats, olives, berries, and other desired items.
Use mini forks or extra picks to present individual pieces of cheese or other specialty items, placing them strategically within the cup.
Insert the toothpick-skewered items into the container, varying their heights and colors to create visual interest.
Fill in any remaining gaps in the container with extra ingredients to hold everything securely in place.
For an added touch, garnish the charcuterie cup with a sprig of fresh herb and cheese slices cut from mini cookie cutters.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
