Sandra Lee semi-homemade

Bake Sale Recipe Contest

Do you have a blue-ribbon worthy bake sale recipe? Email your quick, easy sweet or savory recipe with image to sl@sandralee.com. On March 29th, Sandra will choose the recipe winner who will receive a Sandra Lee Bake Sale Cookbook, and have their recipe posted on sandralee.com.

Interested in hosting a bake sale? Here’s a tidbit to tantalize your taste buds.… Sandra is partnering with Mario Batali, Emeril Lagasse, Lidia Bastianich, and Rosanna Scotto to host the World's Largest Bake Sale on March 29th, 2011 benefiting Share Our Strength®: No Kid Hungry. Sandra is putting together a Semi-Homemade Bake Sale Board of Directors which will consist of specially selected women representing cities  across the United States. Those selected will host their own Bake Sale on March 29th to help this worthy cause.

To get started and receive free information on how to host a bake sale please go to greatamericanbakesale.org and click on Sign Up. When you form your new team, be sure to choose the Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade Bake Sale Board of Directors team group. The first person(s) to confirm their hosting of a Great American Bake Sale for "No Kid Hungry" on March 29th will receive the new Bake Sale Cookbook upon release. 

If you have questions, please email sl@sandralee.com.

Oscar Sunday

Today, February 22nd, is National Margarita Day. This will make my best girlfriend from college, Colleen, exceptionally happy to hear. I always say it's Cocktail Time, and she always says it's Margarita Time. Margarita's are the number 1 cocktail ordered in America so treat yourself today as every day we are blessed to be here is worthy of a celebratory margarita. By the way, Jose Cuervo has a pre-made margarita in a bottle called a "Golden Margarita--" made with Jose Cuervo Gold Tequila, Grand Marnier, and Cuervo mix. It's wonderful and NO work for you--just pour it over ice and relax.

This Sunday is Oscar Sunday. So tune in and watch to see which of your favorite movies of the year will receive the Golden Honor. This year I was lucky enough to be asked to create the 2 signature cocktails at Elton John's Oscar Party. The first I call a Red Carpet Cosmo, and the second a Golden Truffle. So throw a soiree and enjoy one of the most beloved award shows.

Also this Sunday check out Sandra's Money Saving Meals "State Fair Food" at 12pm/11am Central. I am making festive food at fabulous prices. The carnival classics are all on the menu: Corn Dogs with Sweet Mustard, Garlic Fries, Zesty Grilled Corn on the Cob and Funnel Cakes with Strawberry Sauce. For Cocktail Time...Cherry Cola Floats and a winning Round Two Recipe for Corn Salsa.
Cheers to a happy, and healthy home,
Sandra Lee

Bake Sale Board of Directors

Here’s a tidbit to tantalize your taste buds.… Sandra is partnering with Mario Batali, Emeril Lagasse, Lidia Bastianich, and Rosanna Scotto to host the World's Largest Bake Sale on March 29th, 2011 benefiting Share Our Strength®: No Kid Hungry. Sandra is putting together a Semi-Homemade Bake Sale Board of Directors which will consist of specially selected women representing cities  across the United States. Those selected will host their own Bake Sale on March 29th to help this worthy cause.

To get started and receive free information on how to host a bake sale please go to greatamericanbakesale.org and click on Sign Up. When you form your new team, be sure to choose the Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade Bake Sale Board of Directors team group. The first person(s) to confirm their hosting of a Great American Bake Sale for "No Kid Hungry" on March 29th will receive the new Bake Sale Cookbook upon release.  

If you have questions, please email sl@sandralee.com.

Valentine's Day

Super Bowl was super great. There is nothing like the Packer fans. I went to school in Wisconsin so of course I was rooting for the team that owned my college heart. The stadium in Dallas was magical with the Packer presence. I have never seen so many men and women shed tears of joy as when the Packers won.

If you are from Wisconsin and the Pack goes to the Super Bowl, YOU GO! It's a bucket list must do and I must thank my brother Rich for going with me. Rich rooted for my team as passionately as I did even though he is a devoted Seahawk's fan.

At the Stadium there was all sorts of fabulous food from brats, a Packer favorite, to footlong hot dogs, Texas chili, and gourmet cheeseburgers. Even the ordinary pizza had pizzazz and it reminded me that February 9th is National Pizza Pie day. Enjoy it by making my "Mushroom, Arugula, and Sausage Pizza" for a fast, fun dinner.

This Friday, I will be on Good Morning America sharing Valentine's Day Dinner ideas and recipes. Valentine's Day is a very special holiday for me. I do not send a lot for Christmas as everyone is already inundated with Holiday gifts, parties, and people but on Valentine's I like to show my love and gratefulness to the people I adore and appreciate. Here is what I am sending:

• For my professional friends and acquaintances, I am sending beautiful oversized gold boxes of Godiva chocolates and Godiva's infused Chocolate and Raspberry Vodkas. They are divinely decadent and delicious.


• For my dearest personal friends, I am sending boxes of Teuscher champagne truffles.


• For all my little girls (3 nieces, Danielle, Stephanie, and Katie, and my 3 Semi-Homemade daughters, Michaela, Cara, and Mariah), I am send nostalgic sweetheart boxes with chocolate, and sugar frosting decorated sugar hearts with heirloom hair pins. "For You" Gift Box; $12.95. "Sweet Nothings" Sugar Boxes; $19.95/set of 4. Embellished Bobbies; assorted set of 8 (1 for each girl) $59.95; victoriantradingco.com.
  • For my baby cockatoo, Phoenix, who is still on baby bird formula, but who is quickly becoming food independent with seeds and fruit, I got a decorative bird bucket. Bird Seed Pail & Scoop; $39.95; victoriantradingco.com.


• And for my sweetheart, a love letter as words written on lovely stationary will last a lifetime. There is no money or expensive bauble that can replace its meaning or sentiment.
  For more great ideas, pick up the Special Valentine's issue of Semi-Homemade magazine and express to everyone you love how dear they are to you.

I wish you a beautiful Valentine's filled with love.

Cheer to a happy, and healthy home,
Sandra Lee

Superbowl Menu

In New York it seems like it has been snowing for 40 days and 40 nights. It makes the cabin fever of my college days in Wisconsin seem like a balmy lakeside vacation. I was lucky as last week I spent 10 days straight in production. From 7am to 7pm I was in a studio, and my mind was not thinking about the weather. However, when I came outside the weather was all I could think of. By Friday evening melted water from the snow had come through the roof and now I have to repair the remodeling I did last year on my home.

On the bright side, my new baby cockatoo is developing quite an enchanting personality that takes my mind off of the snow, off the damage to my house from the snow, and the millions of things I have on my to do list. Last night he flew for the first time. It was a short flight that lasted approximately a second and a half but he definitely flew and he was very proud of himself for it. Once he landed he puffed up his feathers and raised his crest straight up in the air and chirped his accomplishment proudly. It seems that every night between 8:45pm and 9:15pm, he does a  little dance and flaps his wings to fly. Last night he was finally victorious.

Phoenix's flight was the perfect ending to my hectic day yesterday. I visited three food banks and one food pantry in New York-- three in Manhattan and one in Westchester. For me it was sad to see a consistent statistic of children in our country who suffer from hunger.  The national statistic is one in five, and that held true in New York.

With Ground Hog day this Wednesday, let us all hope for a shorter winter so no cold weather prevent us supporting our local food banks. I think everyone is nearly exhausted by the snowfall in the Northeast. As you know I am ready for some warmer days.

To help ease any winter blues, I've got a Super Bowl menu that will make your party a knock out success.  As the fans arrive serve some festive finger foods; try my "Pigs in a Cheese Blanket" and "Crispy Potato Poppers." Make sure there are plenty of fan favorites on the table; "Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip," and "Spicy Corn Chips" and "Guacamole" are always a hit.  Then for the half time show let the feast begin; serve my "Fiery Tex-Mex Chipotle Cheeseburgers " topped with chipotle mayo, and pour my specialty "Santa Fe Coolers" for all the adults in the room. I will be spending half time working at the Super Bowl as I scored 2 tickets. I am taking my brother Rich to enjoy the festivities and of course being from Wisconsin, I am super excited that the "Pack" is back.

Recipe of the Week: This Friday is "National Stuffed Mushroom Week." A hit recipe in my office is "Pesto-Stuffed Mushrooms" made with fresh mushrooms, pesto, and ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. This recipe is one of the many delicious offerings in my newly released "Semi-Homemade Comfort Food" book.

Cheers to a happy, and healthy home,

Sandra Lee

P.S. Tune in on Sunday, February 6th at 12pm EST/ 11am Central for the Semi-Homemade Cooking "Chocolate Feast" episode. It's sure to inspire you for Valentine's day.

Semi-Homemade Season 15 Production

This week I am knee deep in production on the Semi-Homemade Cooking show. Along with cooking there is food styling, decorating, tablescapes, wardrobe and much more. My production team and I are extremely busy making sure not a beat goes missed, and that everything flows in a smooth and timely manner. We have only 1 week to shoot 13 shows! Even Phoenix, my 3 month old Cockatoo, is busy on set. Although he can't fly yet, he's flapping his wings constantly in preparation for his first flight.

I have all of your favorite dinners made fresh and fast in this season of Semi-Homemade. You'll indulge your taste buds on a trip across the seas with my "South Pacific," "Italian Riviera," "Five from France," and "Old English Feast" episodes. You'll keep to your New Year resolution with "Light and Luscious" and go a quick escape from the city with "Country Weekend." You'll experience the Sandra Lee classics with a "Bake Sale Birthday Bash," "Restaurant Remake" and "Bunch for Brunch." You'll also always have a cocktail time so you relax on your journey through a new season of smart shows.

Recipe of the Week: Thursday, January 27th is everyone's favorite, National Chocolate Cake Day. Although my "Bake Sale" book is not released until March 20th, I will share with you a fabulous and fun recipe for my "Cupcake Cake." It's made with chocolate cake and whipped chocolate frosting, and covered with multi-colored jelly bean "sprinkles." Enjoy!

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra Lee

Phoenix

For Christmas I received a white umbrella cockatoo I have named Phoenix. He was hatched October 30th, and since then has been traveling by my side. When I got him he had minimal feathers and looked pre-historic. His fragility scared me a bit but I swooped him up in my arms and did my best. He is a funny little thing, calm and sweet-- not demanding at all until feeding time. Twice a day (8am and 8pm) he is hungry! Not a subtle calm hungry mind you -- but a full blown "I was hungry 10 hours ago" frantic hungry. He puffs up all his white feathers and turns into the only thing I can think of when he does this...a gremlin. However, 3 eye droppers full of baby bird formula and he is back to being my sweet little gentleman.

He can't fly yet --thank goodness, but that is coming soon. For now he is content just trying to learn how to use his big feet. 

Since Phoenix is grounded it is possible for him to come with me this Friday and throughout the taping of season 15 of Semi-Homemade. Wow! Although he missed the first 14 seasons, he will feel right at home in the giant bird cage that lives in the white room living room on set.  Finally it can be used and is not just for decor.

Hosting this season of Semi-Homemade is going to be the best. Every year my production team and I come up with even more exciting ways to deliver time saving meals. Just to whet your appetite, there will be a money-saving "Bake Sale Birthday Bash," a sensational "Soul Food," and fabulous "Five from France" episode. All will include plenty of tips on decorating your tablescape and creating the ultimate dining experience quickly. The season 15 premiere is this March.

In the meantime, you can checkout Sandra's Money Saving Meals on Sunday at 12 noon EST/11 Central. This week you'll see my fabulous "Perfect Pasta" episode where I will teach you how to transform your favorite pasta dishes into money saving meals. How about letting the family dine on remarkable Pork Ragu over Penne or decadent creamy Spaghetti Carbonara  all while still saving money?

Recipe of the Week: This coming  Friday (January 21st) is national Granola Bar Day. Try out my Soft Granola Goodies made with granola, oatmeal, cranberries, and even pumpkin seeds. They are delicious snacks and will keep any healthy eating or slimming down New Year's resolutions :)

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,

Sandra Lee

A Healthier You

The New Year offers a great opportunity to have a fresh start. So for all you folks looking to join the 2011 health kick bandwagon, and quit munching on chips and processed food, let me introduce you to my revamped Semi-Homemade philosophy.  In the latest season, all of my episodes have and will continue to feature recipes that use 70% fresh foods and 30% store bought products. So the meals you serve and eat will not only be fresh and healthy, but also quick and easy.

Why not start the New Year with a healthy meal for the family to enjoy together?  This past week's episode of Semi-Homemade Cooking, "Asian Banquet" features tons of health-conscious recipes. Try cooking "Ginger Rice Stuffed Mushrooms" and "Black Tea Chicken with Eggplant."  Both recipes have smart choices with flavorful herbs, spices, and veggies -- but none require a huge time commitment because who really has time to spend hours in the kitchen after a long day?

To stay inspired throughout the year on your journey towards a healthier you, try out a subscription to my magazine. It has a "Light Fare" section so that you can follow through on your resolutions. The January/February issue has  "Healthy and Hearty"  salad recipes that will keep you full and happy with a lean protein, greens, and flavorful dressing. You can even pack one up to eat in the office.

Often I am asked how I keep my figure. It's by making smart choices, and eating these healthy types of food. I do splurge on occasion (I love croissants) but on a daily basis I eat well and only healthy-sized portions. It definitely helps to also be active. I just completed my second stop on a food bank tour to eradicate hunger in NY State. Believe it or not, the process of going down the aisles of food banks to stack the shelves keeps me staying fit. Though more importantly it helps spread the message that 1 in 4 children in America faces hunger. So begin this year by also getting on the bandwagon to help a growing force dedicating their time to make sure no child goes hungry.

Lastly, although this New Year has been an incredibly busy one, I will not forget to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my wonderful little sister, Kimmy! I love you.

Here's to a happy, healthy, charitable you,
Sandra Lee

Recipe of the Week: This coming Thursday is cheese lover's day. So try my Caprese Mozzarella Salad Bites. They are made with endives, fresh basil, tomatoes, mozzarella and parmesan. So they have all that cheesy goodness but keep you to your resolution!   

P.S. Here are my the new tv times for Semi-Homemade and Sandra's Money Saving Meals:
Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade: Tuesday-Friday, 10am/9c
Sandra's Money Saving Meals: Monday, 10am/9c; Sundays, 12pm/11c

I Love the New Year

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had an unforgettable 2010 farewell party that kicked off the new year just right. I counted down to the new year with the swearing in of my sweetheart. He became the 56th governor of the great state of New York. It was an amazing historic and emotional New Year -- surreal in every way.

I love the New Year because it offers an invigorating start and clean canvas to paint anew with fresh goals and ideas. Every New Year, I write down a number of goals to accomplish in the next twelve months. For 2011, I plan to stay close to home and travel less. It was my Christmas promise. I encourage you to write down just one resolution that you can commit the new year to achieving. Whether it is eating healthier or being more active in your community, it is possible with a little dedication and hard work, and I promise you will feel amazing about it.

Pick up the January/February issue of my magazine which just hit newsstands. It features simple and savvy home and food tips that will make your life happier and easier. Live this new year the Semi-Homemade way so that you have more time for yourself and your family.

Here's my Recipe of the Week: It's Tempura Day on Friday, January 7. I love tempura because it can make anything crispy and delicious. Try my Onion Blooms for a tasty appetizer or side dish that will surely fly off the table.

For more dishes using fantastic Asian flavors and ingredients, tune in to Food Network this Sunday at 11:30 a.m. EST/10:30 CT for my new Asian Banquet episode. Forget take-out, and join me in making Ginger Rice Stuffed Mushrooms, Tea Soaked Chicken with Eggplant, Saki Spritzer and more.

Cheers to a happy, healthy new year-- full of love and sweetness.
Sandra

New Year's Eve

As I sit here writing the last blog of the year, I reflect back over these past few months, which have been a whirlwind with the 14th season of "Semi-Homemade Cooking," my magazine tour, and the release of my two latest cookbooks.

As we approach the end of the year, I'm sure we're all looking forward to welcoming 2011 with a bang. I can't wait for New Year's Eve, it's always so exciting celebrating and counting down, and this year will be the most special New Year of all. My sweetheart will be sworn in as the Governor of the State of New York at midnight. To us, it's a countdown to start working on making NY state and our country a better place. Part of that is making your friends and family happy – being festive of mind and heart.

If you're throwing a countdown party, you've come to the right place for hosting a fabulous New Year's Eve gathering. For cocktails, serve my elegant Pom Blanco and Champagne Sabayon. Pass around Caprese Mozzarella Salad Bites and Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts for fast finger food, and enjoy the delicious sparkle of the New Year.

By the way, here's my Recipe of the Week: It's Chocolate Day tomorrow, December 28, so whip up a batch of my simple and sweet Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies for dessert or party favors. Everyone will love them!
This week, the January/February issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine is on newsstands so pick one up for clever tips and delicious recipes to start off the New Year. 

Welcoming Winter

December 21st brought the official arrival of winter. Although it is supposed to be the shortest day of the year it didn't feel that way.

I hustled around all day with meetings. Then I went Christmas shopping for the girls in my office, my Semi-Homemade daughters, and of course my best friend, Jeffrey, and my life's love, Andrew. It was a very busy day but I think Christmas this year, although not extravagant, will be lovely and special.

The Food Network called this week and gave me a Christmas present. I get to go back into the studio in January to film my  15th season of Semi-Homemade. That's amazing and a tribute to you, my friends. Thank you so much for loving the show and the "scapes--" I love you for it. I know 2011 will be wonderful and joyous for all of us. 

I wanted to say Merry Christmas to you. May all your hearts be filled with warmth and appreciation for all the gifts god gives the world every day.

Merry Christmas!

Aunt Sandy Claus

P.S.Recipe of the Week: Get into the holiday spirit by celebrating Egg Nog Day on Christmas Eve. Sip on my Irish Egg Nog as you watch reruns of 'Elf' or 'Miracle on 34th Street' – it's for adults only, so whip up a classic egg nog for the little ones. 

Getting into the Christmas Spirit

Hello -- Sorry I missed last week. Life got a little crazy as I had Good Morning America, Today Show, Weekend Today, and a satellite media tour (which is basically 20 cities or more via satellite one morning).  I hosted a cookie demonstration at Macy's and shot the cover for my bake sale book coming out this March. It was also my sweethearts birthday and we had a 200 plus person party I was helping to host! So I had a good excuse-- still I apologize I missed you.

The Friday following Thanksgiving  I put up 7 Christmas Trees with my elf Steve. God Bless him-- we had a ball and created a Christmas wonderland pretty enough to be a book. I love the busy anticipation leading up to the holiday, when trees need trimming, lights need hanging, and gifts need wrapping. Although there's seems to be so much to do, it is a labor of love. When Christmas arrives, you can feel good about welcoming friends and family into a warm, festive home.

During this time of year, I enjoy driving around the local neighborhoods to admire the beautiful holiday decorations adorning different homes. I love holiday home tours on parade --inside and out. Some homes are truly jaw-dropping. This week, I'm working to bring those homes to you through my magazine, when I'll be doing a photo shoot in my own home of my Christmas trees. There are beautiful homes available for tours all around the country - it's a great way to spend a fun afternoon with your family.

If you have not picked up the Special Collector's Issue of my Christmas magazine it's a must have full of holiday home decorating tips and fabulous food recipes. Plus, Food Network will be airing an encore of my White Christmas episode so tune in on Sunday morning at 11:30 a.m. EST/10:30 CT. My sister Kimber and I show you how to make Snowy Angel Food Cakes, White Chocolate Egg Nog and more.

Recipe of the Week: This Wednesday, December 15, celebrate Lemon Cupcake Day with my Lemon Cloud Cupcakes (Desserts 2). It's light and topped with creamy meringue for a lovely treat.

Cheers to a happy, healthy holiday,

Sandra

The Holiday Season

When I was growing up, I used to wish for a white Christmas every year. Swirls of falling, fluffy snow complete the perfect picture of Christmas. I remember when it did snow I would help bundle my brothers and sisters and go out and play. Then when it was too cold, I would run inside and stand in front of the large window off the dining room and watch them. Rich, John, and Kimmy never wanted to come back in. That is brings back my personal Christmas memories.

A white Christmas this coming Sunday. My sister Kimber is joining me again for another amazing episode, where we'll show you how to make a Pork Crown Roast with Royal Glaze, Snowy Angel Food Cakes, an impressive White Chocolate Egg Nog and more. Plus, I'm putting together one of my favorite tablescapes to date - a picturesque white and snowy village complete with sugar houses, snowmen and trees. Kick back with a cup of hot chocolate (try the Best Ever Hot Chocolate) and tune in to "Semi-Homemade Cooking" Sunday on Food Network at 11:30 a.m./10:30 CT.

Christmas offers a great opportunity to help those in need and to support philanthropic organizations that you're passionate about. This week, I attended the UNICEF Snowflake Ball. Every year, UNICEF (the United Nations Children's Fund) celebrates and honors individuals whose philanthropy have contributed to the organization's mission to save children's lives with the Snowflake Ball, and it is one of my favorite things every year.

UNICEF lights their snowflakes in New York City as a reminder of their ongoing goal to protect vulnerable children around the world. So for this week, whip up a batch of my Gingerbread Snowflakes to light up smiles on the faces of those you love.

Remember to pick up the Christmas special issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine as you get ready for December's holiday plans and try to avoid getting too stressed around this time of year. Life can be easier if you remember to keep it smart, keep it simple, and keep it Semi-Homemade!

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

Happy Thankgiving

Happy Thanksgiving (early)! I'm so excited for this year's Thanksgiving because on Thursday, I will be participating in a huge American tradition - the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. I will be on the Ocean Spray Float riding with the other festive floats and gigantic, friendly balloons. You're going to need a break from the cooking, so tune into NBC at 9:00 a.m. to join in on the fun! After the parade, I am delivering meals for Meals on Wheels "City Meals" – even if you only have an hour, that's 2 deliveries and everyone helps. Take a moment to give back, you'll be happier and healthier for it, and you'll  help people who really need it.

If you're still scrambling at the last minute for your Thanksgiving feast, you've come to the right place for easy and fast recipes. Start off the dinner with appetizers like Proscuitto-Tied Asparagus and Crispy Corn Fritters with Tomato Salad. To complement the turkey, serve my Tricolor Potato Salad and French Bean Casserole as sides.

 Although I doubt there will be leftovers, you can enjoy it on Friday if you've still got room in your tummies in celebration of national Cake Day. On Tuesday, the Christmas special issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine is hitting newsstands. If you loved the Special Collector Issue of my Halloween magazine, I promise this one is just as good. You'll find food and drinks galore, great gift ideas abundance, and super simple decorating details you'll love -- I promise.

On Sunday, get ready for the holidays in December, throw a Cocktail Party -- watch "Semi-Homemade Cooking" this weekend at 11:30 a.m. EST/10:30 CT and enjoy easy, incredible canapes and cocktails that will please all your family and friends, and give you plenty of time to enjoy this season yourself.

Festive Thanksgiving

The happiest season of all is upon us, and it all begins with Thanksgiving planning and Christmas clamoring. This means plenty of busy entertaining and gift-giving shopping. You can feel the anticipation for the holidays everywhere and the excitement is infectious. Department stores and homes are already hanging up magnificent holiday decor with festive wreaths and twinkling lights.

Thank goodness it's Thanksgiving when we can eat to our heart's content and enjoy our family and friends. Did you catch "Semi-Homemade Cooking" this past Sunday at 11:30 a.m. ET? My sister Kimber and I served a Festive Thanksgiving menu. If you're still planning yours, try the Peppered Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes and Three Bread Stuffing for great side dishes from the episode. We've got more recipes and tablescape tips here. For dessert, I've got you covered with my Peanut Butter Fudge Cookies in light of Peanut Butter Fudge Day on Saturday. It's a super simple recipe for a quick and sweet treat.

Last week, I stopped by Good Morning America to show my one box used four ways idea from the November/December issue of my magazine. It was genius. I made coffee-crusted pork chops, a chocolate coffee cappuccino, tiramisu and even a beautiful tenderloin from my new cookbook, Semi-Homemade The Complete Cookbook. Robin was a lovely host, and Sam was as sweet as ever. It was the first time I've ever seen George giggle, which JuJu got a great kick out of. So check out the new issue of the Semi-Homemade magazine on newsstands now, as it will not only impress your Thanksgiving guests, but it will get you through the holidays happily.

Cheers to a happy, healthy home and a wonderful Thanksgiving season,

Sandra

Comfort Food

This past Saturday, I was the honorary chair for the Chappaqua Antiques Show in Chappaqua, New York, which featured more than fifty dealers from around the country who toted an unique assortment of home decor treasures. I could not attend because I wasn't feeling well all weekend, but I know they had the most amazing jewelry, kitchenware, and furniture – there is always something for every home. I started my career in home and garden – so creating a beautiful home is more than a hobby to me, it's my passion. Hey, maybe I should write a home and garden book? A beautiful home filled with lovely treasures and comforting corners. I say yes!

Speaking of comfort, what is your favorite comfort food? Today, my new cookbook Semi-Homemade Comfort Food is released in bookstores and online. I had a great time putting this book together because comfort food always makes me happy. There's nothing like digging into your favorite comfort food to put a satisfied smile on your face and to make you feel at home no matter where you are. I know my comfort food book will bring your home joy and satisfied tummies.

For dinner tonight, make my Meatball Lasagna, Greek Garlic Fries, and Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding for a meal the entire family will cozy up to and love. There are also great comfort food recipes in the November/December issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade that hit newsstands last week.

Thanksgiving is the ultimate comfort food feast. With only two more weeks until the holiday arrives, get a head start on planning by tuning in to "Semi-Homemade Cooking" this Sunday morning at 11:30 a.m. EST/10:30 CT on Food Network. My sister Kimber is joining me for a Festive Thanksgiving where we serve a mouthwatering Herb and Pear Glazed Turkey, Three Bread Stuffing, and more. Also watch Saturday night, November 13 at 9 p.m. EST, for the Food Network All Star Special – I have the most fun with Big Daddy. Don't miss it. See ya next Monday morning.

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

It's November

This week hosts one of the most important days in the fall - Election Day. Our right to vote is often taken for granted in this nation because Americans today have always had the right to vote, compared to other countries who do not allow all citizens such a privilege.

I encourage my fellow Semi-Homemakers and fans to go out there and be active citizens by casting your vote in  your local elections. Your opinion matters, and it should be heard. Find out who is running for what office in your city and state, and explore the mission of the campaigns of these candidates. Ultimately, by becoming informed, you can make a smart vote that you can feel good about.

This fall is truly flying by - it's incredible that November is already here. We're heading into the busy holiday season, and I know your everyday schedules are as jam-packed as mine. To ease your load, pick up the new November/December issue of my Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine – it just hit newsstands and is a wonderful issue with easy recipes and festive ideas.

Remember to tune in to "Semi-Homemade Cooking" on Food Network every Sunday morning at 11:30 a.m. EST/10:30 a.m. CT. This Sunday, watch for my easy and relaxing Wine Party . I'll be serving up Brie and Merlot Mushroom Bites, Flat Iron Steak with Cabernet Sauce and more. This Tuesday is also Deviled Egg Day, so try my "Straight Up" Deviled Eggs for a simple snack or tasty starter to your own wine and cocktail parties this holiday season. Finally, look for my new blog every Monday.

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra

Happy Halloween

Halloween is finally here this week! I love Halloween because it is the one day of the year when you can be whoever or whatever you want. You can let your imagination run wild and fulfill your most dramatic fantasy, so why not go completely over the top? In the past, I've played larger than life divas like Cher and Madonna, and legendary royalty like Marie Antoinette and Guinevere. I've also had a lot of fun making up my own characters like Faireen (Queen of the Fairies). No matter what your costume fantasy is, make it come alive this All Hallow's Eve.

Did you catch the Halloween special this past Sunday? I was Robin Hood, Lady Marian, a Gypsy fortune teller "Cher," Queen Elizabeth AND Queen of the Fairies. With my elaborate costumes, I am known as the Queen of Halloween at Food Network, and that's why an encore replay of my Halloween Queens episode will be airing on Food Network this Sunday at 11:30 a.m./10:30 CT.

I hope you have plenty of candy stocked up for trick-or-treaters and delicious desserts for this weekend's dinner like my Ghoulish Pies – or serve my Bloodshot Eyecakes at your Halloween bash - but beware, they are not for the faint of heart.

Also, this is your last chance to get my Halloween magazine special issue – I hope you can still find one. And finally this Wednesday, the November/December issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine is hitting newsstands. I've got delicious holiday fare and beautiful decoration tips. Remember to keep it simple, keep it smart, and keep it Semi-Homemade, and Happy Halloween!

Cheers to a happy, healthy home,
Sandra