Fast Friday: Mint chocolate chip cookies

What if I told you that I had a cookie recipe that will appeal to everyone, from the "I don't bake" bakers to the self-proclaimed kitchen masters?

The correct answer should be, "Why, I'd get in my car and head to the grocery story to purchase the ingredients immediately, Katy."  

This cookie recipe is also for all of the wonderful folks somewhere in between those two extremes.  Especially the people who, when they want something sweet, want it rightthisminute!  This edition of Fast Friday is for you!

Oh, what wonderful young grasshoppers you are :)

Speaking of grasshoppers...

No, not the moving kind that will, according to some, take over the world someday.

The kind that when paired with words like "pie" or "cake" indicates the best kind of marriage between flavors in desserts: chocolate and mint.  The kind that involves a healthy dose of Andes chocolate mints.  I love that the word "indulgence" is printed right on the front of the bag.  I couldn't agree more.

Sloppy Joe grilled cheese sandwiches

I tend to obsess about things and fall head over heels in love with them.  Take hockey, Kate Spade's spring 2012 collection, and this ridiculously catchy pop song as a few examples.  I made the unfortunate mistake of watching the official music video on YouTube and was horrified by the fact that the group members look eight years old.  That made me feel old, so I went ahead and minimized that window for further listening.

Another current obsession of mine has been the humble grilled cheese.  Whether classic or twisted with guacamole and transformed into the stuff dreams are made of, I can't get enough of 'em.  Would you believe that there is even a Pinterest group called Grilled Cheese Social for enthusiasts all over the interwebs to share their magical creations?!  Color me beyond excited!

I spotted many, many sandwiches that were immediately added to my must make list.  One such sandwich had me so transfixed that I altered my meal plan for the following week (gasp!), happily discovered that I had all of the ingredients already (hooray!), and made it within 48 hours of said discovery.

Like I said, I'm serious about grilled cheese sandwiches.   Seriously in love with them!

Savory cornmeal waffles with salsa & black beans

Ever since my bridal shower last October, my life hasn't been the same.  Sure, my family and friends spoiled me rotten and created a magical day for me that I'll never forget.

But, the life-changing part of the whole thing?  It was also the day that a waffle maker came into my life.  (Thanks, V!)  My waffle maker.

Should he have a name?  I guess it's a he now...

Walter?  I like Walter.  If you haven't noticed, I like alliteration.  Makes naming inanimate objects that much more fun.  Try it!

Anyway, Walter and I have gotten along swimmingly since that fine Sunday.  You see, we've tried to learn from the mistakes of others who neglect their waffle makers for decades at a time, only to eventually cast it off at a garage sale for good.  At least once a month, we have a date with flour, sugar, and maple syrup.  At times, we even get a little crazy and the batter overflows and... whew, it's a whirlwind, I'm telling you.

Well, a few weeks ago I bookmarked a recipe that seriously intrigued me.  It rocked the very sturdy and sweet foundation upon which Walter and I have built our relationship over the past months.

Savory cornmeal and chives waffles.

What the what?  Is that too crazy?

Shrimp, avocado & orange quinoa salad

News flash: I'm not a very trendy person.  I'm picky and selective and favor articles of clothing considered classic -- items that won't look out of place six months or a year from now. 

So, when I purchased a pair of skinny jeans, it was a big deal.  Huge!  I waited almost six months after they initially hit the market before getting my own.  I think it's because I wanted to see if skinny jeans had any staying power and weren't just a passing trend.

I suppose that's what I've been telling myself about quinoa.  What is this weird grain?  Why is everyone and their mothers, brothers, and neighbors talking about this stuff?  What's the big deal?  And, how on earth do you pronounce it?

To answer the last question first, it's pronounced "keen-wha", though Matt would reward you with a high five for pronouncing it "kwi-no-uh."  He's a weird guy, that one.

Though you'll hear it referred to as a grain (guilty), quinoa is technically not a grain but the seed of a leafy plant related to spinach.  It's grown in South America and has an amazing nutty smoky flavor and is less filling than most grains and pastas.  Quinoa is a complete protein source and chock full of vitamins and minerals.  I won't bore you with the details, but check out the nutrition profile if you're curious.  Basically, quinoa is as close as it comes to being a perfect food source in the balance of nutrition it provides... count me in!

Copycat P.F. Chang's chicken lettuce wraps

Think of the last time you dined out somewhere.  Now, please picture the menu at said restaurant.  Maybe I'm getting old... or just increasingly indecisive, but restaurants these days have giant menus.  Gi-nor-mous, people.

Prime example: The Cheesecake Factory's menu.  It's easily 20 pages long.  I'm initially overwhelmed by so many choices, then end up getting distracted by my company and the basket of brown bread.  Inevitably, I'm forced to tell the waiter (again) that yes, I do need more time to make my selection.  Sorry, buddy.

(Please say you're nodding, meaning I'm not the only person who tortures the staff like this.)