Zuppa Toscana (knock off from Olive Garden)

I think we all know by now that I am a soup junkie. Here is my latest fave for all you soup fans out there. This one is good. Mad good. And good for you! I compiled it from a few websites and added my own twist to get it just the way I like it.

1/2 lb. spicy Italian sausage - crumbled
1 qt. water
(2) 14.5 oz. cans (about 3 2/3 cups) chicken broth

2 lg. russet potatoes - scrubbed clean, cubed
2 garlic cloves - peeled, crushed
1/2 med. onion - peeled, finely chopped
2 cups chopped kale OR Swiss chard
1 cup heavy whipping cream
salt and pepper - to taste (the sausage provides a nice salt content, so you shouldn't need much).

freshly grated parmesan cheese for garnish

-In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown sausage, breaking into small pieces as you fry it; drain, set aside.
-Place water, broth, potatoes, garlic, and onion in a pot; simmer over medium heat until potatoes are tender.
-Add sausage to pot; simmer for 10 minutes.
-Add kale and cream to pot; season with salt and pepper; heat through.

Easy Chicken salad

It's been a while since I posted, so I thought I'd share a little quick and easy chicken salad. It's great on crackers, whole wheat bread, a bagel or just by itself. It takes 5 mintues to whip up and lasts for a few days depending on how hungry you are! I love it on toasted bread with some lettuce and a tomato. YUM!

Easy Chicken Salad
1 can chicken-drained and shred with a fork
1/2 small red apple-diced
2-3 Tbsp sliced almonds
2 Tbsp mayo
salt and pepper to taste

See, easy. Enjoy!