Not just for smoothies

I’m usually not one to toot my own horn, but I do know my way around a kitchen.

And since the pandemic began, I’ve spent a lot of time cooking.

One thing I’ve learned as I’ve honed my culinary skills over the years is you don’t need a bunch of fancy kitchen gadgets and foo-foo high-tech nonsense to make a decent meal.

They’re simply a waste of money and good counter space.

But there is one kitchen essential I couldn’t live without… my blender.

In fact, I use it every day to make my morning smoothie.

It took me a while to find a blender I really loved.

You see, I absolutely hate it when a smoothie is chunky and not blended properly.

So, I needed something strong enough to handle whatever I was throwing in there – ice, kale, frozen fruit.

But most of all, I wanted one that could be much more than just a smoothie machine.

Something more multi-purpose, to give me more bang for my buck, if you know what I mean.

Now that I’ve found one, I never want to be without it.

Because beyond my daily smoothies, I’ve put my blender to use to make some fun and tasty things.

Like nut butters.

Store-bought nut butters can be expensive. 

Plus, they’re often loaded with sugar and preservatives to keep them shelf stable for a long period of time. 

But homemade? Absolutely delicious with just nuts and a pinch of salt.

My favorite is almond butter.

Before blending, I roast the nuts in the oven for about 10 minutes.

This helps loosen up the oil in the nuts so they’re easier to blend.

After roasting, I just pop them in the blender with a little salt and mix.

Something else I like to make in my blender? Pesto.

Most folks either use a food processor or use a mortar and pestle to grind up the basil.

Not me.

My blender can give me the consistency I want in a matter of seconds.

Here in the Reagan house, fall is soup season.

And for those soups with “chunky” veggies like butternut squash, zucchini and sweet potatoes, the blender is perfect for getting just the right texture – smooth and creamy.

A blender is also great for mixing up sauces for main dishes and dressings for salads.

I’ve even used it to grind coffee beans and spices.

How about you?

I’m sure you have some non-smoothie recipes you’ve whipped up in your blender.

Write me back. I’d love to see them. 

And I may even pick a few to share with my readers.