Movie Time

Today we took the kids to see the new Cars 2 movie. I was not a big fan of the first one so I was not really looking forward to seeing this movie. Jimmy, Haylie and James were really the only ones who wanted to see it. Anna, Kayla and I were really surprised from the very beginning that we were actually interested in what was going on! Even when Haylie needed to get up and use the bathroom I wasn't thrilled about taking her. I didn't want to miss anything:) To sum it up this is definitely a movie worth seeing!

Peanut Butter Bars with Ganache Frosting

I found this recipe here and just knew I had to make them. I made them for our 4th of July party and they were fantastic! If you love peanut butter and chocolate, these are a must make now!

Peanut Butter Bars with Ganache Frosting

For the Crust:
1 box Devils Food Cake Mix
1/3 cup butter
1 egg

For the Peanut Butter layer:
3/4 c. butter
3/4 cup peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 pound powdered sugar (about 3 cups)
2 tablespoons milk
3/4 cup honey-roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)

For the Ganache:
1/2 cup whipping cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup milk chocolate chips

1) In a large bowl, mix togehter the cake mix, egg, and butter. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan. Bake in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for 12 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.

2)In a large bowl, mix together all of the ingredients for the peanut butter filling until it is thick and smooth. Spread onto cooled chocolate crust, patting the top down evenly to prepare for the ganache frosting.

3) Pour the chocolate chips and whipping cream into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for about 60 seconds, then whisk. Microwave again for 30 seconds or so, then whisk again, until the mixture creates a smooth, thick chocolate sauce. Spread chocolate on top of peanut butter frosting. Allow all layers to set and cool completely before serving, about 2-3 hours. Cut into squares to serve.

Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad

I found this recipes on allrecipes.com and it was delicious!
I only used 1/3 cup oil and I substituted Agave for the sugar.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1 (16 ounce) package bow tie pasta
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup light soy sauce
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 cups shredded, cooked chicken breast meat
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/3 cup chopped green onion

Directions

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sesame seeds, and cook stirring frequently until lightly toasted. Remove from heat, and set aside.
2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain pasta, and rinse under cold water until cool. Transfer to a large bowl.
3. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine vegetable oil, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, sesame seeds, ginger, and pepper. Shake well.
4. Pour sesame dressing over pasta, and toss to coat evenly. Gently mix in chicken, cilantro, and green onions.