3 Delicious & Easy Pasta Recipes

I am always on the lookout for the tastiest and easiest recipes I can find during the Fall! This is the perfect time spent with loved ones, cozied-up around the fireplace, eating delicious food. One of my favorite meals is pasta, as the Italian in me has to love. I absolutely love anything and everything that has pasta in it. Honestly, I think I like it so much because you can keep pasta so simple, or make it super intricate. It is all up to you! Here are some amazingly, delicious and easy recipes I found from Delish that will be winners for you this Fall season! **ALL RECIPES COURTESY OF DELISH**

Judy Kim / Delish

Sloppy Joe Mac And Cheese

kosher salt

1 lb. Macaroni

1 lb. ground beef

Freshly ground black pepper

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 onion, diced

2 tbsp. brown sugar

2 c. crushed tomatoes

2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

2 tsp. chili powder

1/4 c. freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

2 c. grated mozzarella, divided

For the full recipe, click on the link here

Judy Kim / Delish

Cauliflower & Broccoli Carbonara

kosher salt

1 lb. Macaroni

2 c. small broccoli florets

2 c. small cauliflower florets

2 large eggs, at room temperature

2 egg yolks, at room temperature

1/4 c. heavy cream, at room temperature

2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for garnish

Freshly ground black pepper

1/4 c. chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish

For the recipe, click on the link here

Judy Kim / Delish

Cajun Angel Hair

kosher salt

12 oz. angel hair

1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 lb. chicken sausage

2 tbsp. butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 c. sliced green onions, plus more for garnish

1 tbsp. Cajun seasoning

2 tsp. paprika

1/4 c. dry white wine

1/2 c. heavy cream

1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for garnish

1/3 c. shredded Cheddar

For the full recipe, click on the link here

Judy Kim/Delish

If you are in the market for some easy, yet delicious recipes to use this fall, I highly recommend checking out Delish!

If any of your appliances ever seem to just not be working quite right, please give us a call today! We will set up a service call to come check it out and fix it for you in no time! Appliance Rescue Service is here to help!

5 Must Have Kitchen Essentials for this Fall

I don’t know about you, but I am SO excited for Fall this year! September 24th is the first day, and you all know what that means: Warm soups, hot chocolate, cuddly blankets, and that is just the beginning. With this cozy season being just around the corner, all the festive Fall recipes are coming out! Here are the must have kitchen essentials you will need to create those dang-good recipes!

Crock Pot or Slow Cooker

No matter what age you are, a CrockPot or slow cooker is one of the easiest appliances to have. Seriously, all you do is throw all the ingredients in, walk away, and let it do the rest! As a college student, this was my favorite appliance to use! Some of my favorite recipes I have done are beef stew, chicken tortilla soup, and macaroni and cheese! Yes, you heard me right. Macaroni and cheese. You can get a slow cooker at almost any home store, like Wal-Mart of Target. I will link where I got mine here!

Cast Iron Skillet

Honestly, before I met my husband, I had never used a cast iron skillet before. When we moved into our fully furnished home, we had a cast iron to use. And I had no idea what to cook in it! Fun fact about these, is you season them prior to cooking. You first clean them well with hot soapy water. Make sure it is fully dry. Then coat the skillet with vegetable oil. Just a thin layer! Then bake it in your oven at 375 degrees for an hour and voila! One of our favorite recipes to make in these is a nice steak, with butter and garlic! We loved using it so much, we bought our own! I will link where I got mine here!

Bread or Loaf Tin

If there is one dessert I love to have in the Fall, it would have to be banana nut bread! Having a loaf tin around is handy all the time, but having it for the fall especially is great! The great thing about this tin, is there are SO many recipes you can make in one. Meatloaf, pumpkin bread, fruit cake, and seriously so much more! Here is where you can get yours for only $2!!

Pie Tin

Going right along with a loaf pan, having a pie tin almost seems necessary during the Fall season! Especially during Thanksgiving time! Growing up, we always had pumpkin and pecan pie during Thanksgiving, and the same for Christmas! But not only can you make these sweet dessert pies, you can make other kinds too! Shepherds pie, chicken pot pie (one of our favorites), and turkey pot pie! The best part is you can get the disposable ones, or one to keep for however long! Here is where you can get disposable for only $12 for 50, and here is where you can get a more permanent one for $5.29! 

Electric Kettle

This has got to be one of the best appliances I have ever used before. If you are a tea or hot chocolate lover, then this is definitely for you! Not only that, I was able to use one of these in college for things like top ramen and instant mac and cheese! You simply fill the kettle, place it on the pad provided, and the water gets boiling hot (be careful) within minutes! Perfect for those who want a quick fix without waiting over a stove top! Here is where I purchased mine from.

Now this is definitely not the full list of the perfect items you will need this Fall, but it a great start! I honestly got most of these items from Target, but you can get them at most home goods stores! What is your favorite appliance to use in the Fall? 

If you are ever having troubles with your current kitchen appliances, contact us today to set up a service call. Appliance Rescue Service is always here to help!

How To Baby Proof Your Kitchen

For anyone who has had children before, you know that ‘baby-proofing’ the house is an absolute must! Children, especially babies who have now learned to crawl/walk, love exploring the home and getting their hands on any and everything they can! As a new mom myself, my son is now at the stage of a super fast crawl, attempting to walk when he wants. So baby-proofing my whole house is absolutely necessary! One of my last rooms I need to proof is my kitchen. But what exactly do I need to lock up?? This was my next mission!! Thanks to some helpful advice of friends and family, I think I have mastered the kitchen with making it completely baby-friendly! (As in, babies can go in and not get hurt! Here are some things that I have done to ensure my kitchen doesn’t become a danger zone for toddlers!

1) Cabinets & Drawers

The number one goal of my son’s is to get into every single drawer and cabinet he can find. Especially the pots and pans cabinet! So this was my first goal to tackle! Not to mention, we carry all our cleaning supplies under the sink, so that is a definite must! We fortunately have the slow closing cabinet doors, but we needed something a little better. We invested in those adhesive cabinet locks (Target , $9.89)  that you stick to the back of the door, with a little latch on the back! And Boom!! Our cabinets can’t get into anymore! (Besides us) 

2) StoveTop & Oven

The next item to lock up was our oven. The oven in our home is directly next to the entrance into the kitchen, so that is one of the first things my son goes for. He enjoys standing up, and tapping on the glass as if someone was in there, and he wanted to say ‘hello!’ However, I always worry that he is going to pull down on the handle and hit his little noggin! I didn't even know that an oven lock was a thing, but apparently it is! These locks, which are actually all purpose locks, look like a little latch that keep the items shut! It can be used on ovens, microwaves, dishwashers, etc. We got ours at Target for $9 and it works wonders!

3) Trash Cans

So this may not seem like something you would need to proof, but for our son we did! He is at the age of trying to stand up by grabbing onto things. So he will try to grab the trash can and stand up, but the bin isn't heavy enough to hold his weight from pulling! The only thing we could think of is getting a better trash can, or ensuring the trash can has a lid on it! If not, we always just put the trash in our garage!

4) Cooking Safely

Lastly, we have had to make sure that we are cooking as safely as possible. My husband’s favorite food is tacos, so we are constantly frying up some shells for them! One thing I have always made sure of is that we feed our son during the time we cook. So we bring his highchair into the kitchen, and feed him soft finger foods while we eat to keep him busy form exploring during cooking! This has been the best method for us!!

Honestly, being a parent is hard! And trying to protect our children from getting hurt almost seems impossible. But there are so many measures you can take to make sure that you can do what you can! 

IMPORTANT NOTICE: RECALL ON GLASS COOKTOPS

https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2019/whirlpool-recalls-glass-cooktops-with-touch-controls-due-to-burn-and-fire-hazards

Kitchen Updates

Nothing good lasts forever, and that includes the appliances and equipment that you may have already replaced during recent kitchen updates. While your kitchen will look gorgeous when everything is brand new and state-of-the-art, that shiny new look doesn’t last forever. Sooner or later, you’ll need to invest in replacements or repairs to keep everything up to par.

When contemplating kitchen updates, it’s important to understand that even if you think functionality is still intact, there may be issues lurking under the surface. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining the state of your kitchen.

When Do You Need a New Dishwasher?

Replace As Needed – Every 10 Years at the Latest

For many households, dishwashers are indispensable, providing a valuable way to reduce post-meal tasks and improve overall cleanliness. However, dishwashers get old, break, and need replacements during kitchen updates, just like any other appliance.

Modern dishwashers are designed to last around 10 years, but if you start seeing these signs of wear and tear issues before that point, it may be time to invest in a repairman or a new dishwasher:

·         Rust on the exterior that can indicate a water leak that isn’t necessarily visible

·         Standing water in your dishwasher, indicating a serious clog

·         A door that doesn’t properly latch or lock

·         Cold dishes following a cycle

·         Cracks or damage to the door or frame

·         Leaking water on the floor under the unit

·         Dishes that are spotty or dirty after a wash cycle

In some cases, a repair or parts replacement can fix these issues, but most of the time, a full replacement is the best option. Replacing a dishwasher will increase energy efficiency and improve the quality of your kitchen cleaning endeavors.

How Long Do Refrigerators Last?

Replace As Needed – Every 10 Years at the Latest

It’s hard to imagine living in a modern home without a refrigerator, which is why prompt repairs or replacements are so important. When refrigerator parts are on the fritz, it can cause plenty of issues, including ruined food, wasted money, and the risk of bacteria development, which can cause food poisoning such as salmonella.

The average lifespan of a refrigerator is about 10 years, but these signs can be indicative of a need for a timely replacement:

·         Excessive condensation; in some cases, this can be remedied by a new door seal

·         A motor that runs too hot

·         Food that spoils faster than normal

·         A freezer that is far too cold and leaves an ice buildup on items or causes freezer burn

·         Excess energy use with no changes in habits

·         A loud motor

·         Uneven cooling, including freezing within the fridge space

It’s not uncommon for attachments such as ice machines or water filters to break after three to five years. If you live somewhere with a hot climate, it’s crucial to stay up to date with these smaller repairs. However, if your refrigerator has broken parts and kitchen updates are a priority, a full replacement may be the best option.

When Is a New Stove Essential?

Replace Every 10 Years at the Latest

Cooking is virtually impossible without a functional stove or oven, but this stable kitchen appliance doesn’t last forever. If you are in need of a new range, these tips can guide your decision between replacing and repairing.

Like most kitchen appliances, a lifespan of 10 years or more isn’t uncommon. However, if you’re seeing signs of trouble and your stove is more than a decade old, replacement is most likely the right choice, especially if:

·         The glass is cracked

·         One or more burners won’t light, or won’t heat up properly

·         The oven heats unevenly, with particular areas heating faster than others

·         Preheating takes longer than usual

·         Burners are uneven

·         There is a strong smell of gas in gas units, indicating a potential leak

Even if a repair is possible, it may not be worth the investment. If the cost of the repair is 50 percent or more of the cost of the unit, it’s time to take on something new.

Timelines for Counter tops and Cabinet Installation

Update Every 10-15 Years

Despite common perception, counters and cabinets aren’t meant to last forever. After excessive use, counters wear down. Eventually, cupboard doors don’t close properly and shelves begin to buckle and bend. Every 10 to 15 years is generally the recommended time frame for a full kitchen remodel. Whether the functionality of your kitchen isn’t meeting your needs, or you simply want an updated look, it may be worth considering a kitchen remodel.

Counter top Replacement

While the functionality of cabinets can actively disturb storage and the protection of your cooking utensils, counter tops rarely interfere with function, no matter how old they are. However, the look and feel can decrease the value of your cooking space, and it’s possible for cracks to hold bacteria before any kitchen updates. If your counter is cracked, stained beyond repair, has any signs of structural problems, or simply looks outdated, it’s time for a counter top replacement.

Cabinet Installation

Unless your cabinets are significantly newer than your counter tops, it’s recommended to replace both at the same time, with cabinet installation taking priority. When cabinets are installed first, you can be sure new counter tops will fit around or on your new cupboards and will not be damaged during the process.

 Replacing Microwaves and Small Appliances

Replace As Needed – Every 5 Years at the Latest

Unlike large appliances like refrigerators, stoves, ovens, and dishwashers, most smaller appliances won’t make it to a decade of life. As such, you may need to replace things like microwaves on a more accelerated basis.

Microwave

Your microwave should hold up for at least five years, but inexpensive models may only give you a year or two. Signs like smoke, sparks, burning smells, improperly cooked food, suspicious sounds, and trouble with controls often mean it’s time for a replacement.

Microwaves can be repaired, but the cost is often not worth it. When in doubt, a new microwave is generally a better deal, with prices averaging around $100 or less–a steal compared to larger appliances.

Toasters

Toasters and toaster ovens can be important for convenience and easy cooking, particularly for meals that don’t necessitate the time commitment preheating the oven requires. However, like microwaves, these items aren’t meant to last longer than around five years of regular use, either. If you see sparks or smoke, experience uneven cooking, or smell strong metallic scents, it’s time for kitchen updates and potentially a replacement.

Stand Mixers

Stand mixers can make baking fast and simple, but they’re big investments. As such, most people are hesitant to drop cash on a replacement. Little things, like worn gears, may require simple parts repairs that you can do yourself, but bigger problems, like cracked stands, power troubles, or strange smells, usually entail a new unit.

Before jumping the gun, be sure to check the warranty. Some units may come with long-term protection that you can use to minimize or eliminate the cost or a replacement.

How Long Do Spices Last?

Between 1-5 Years

Spices are a staple in any kitchen, but contrary to the habits of standard home cooks, spices don’t last forever. Even though spices are generally dried and intended to be preserved, they do come with an expiration date. Here are a few guidelines for how long spices last:

·         Whole spices should be replaced every four years

·         Ground spices should be replaced every two to three years

·         Herbs should be replaced every one to two years

Spices don’t actually spoil and are unlikely to make you sick, but they do lose flavor and effectiveness, compromising the food you cook.

Common cooking oils, like olive oil or canola oil, should be replaced every one to two years. In theory, white kosher and sea salt will last indefinitely, but table salt should be replaced every five years.

When to Throw Away Non-Stick Pans

Replace Every 5 Years

Pots and pans, particularly non-stick varieties, do need to be a part of your regularly scheduled kitchen updates. Based on the chemicals used to manufacture the non-stick surface, non-stick pots and pans shouldn’t be used for more than five years. If there are any scratches or the surface begins to peel, replacement should be expedited.

A great kitchen has a lot to offer your quality of life and your diet, but maintaining functionality means proper replacements. From broken appliances to outdated counter tops, it’s up to you to keep your kitchen in perfect working order.