Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

I have a garden in the summer and grow a number of herbs and vegetables.  Tomatillos are one the unusual items and I so look forward to making salsa with them when they are ripe.

This recipe makes a wonderful tangy, spicy yet fresh Mexican style green salsa. It's easy to make and goes well with just about anything.

I've paired it with fish, burgers, falafels, eggs, pork chops and of course taco and fajitas.

Tomatillos are worth seeking out now that they are in season.

 Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

1½ lbs. fresh tomatillos (papery skins removed and rinsed)

3 or 4 fresh jalapeños for spicy or (1 or 2 for mild)

3 garlic cloves unpeeled

½ c. fresh cilantro (stems and leaves)

1 large onion, chopped

2 tsp. coarse salt or 1 tsp table salt

1. Place tomatillos, jalapenos, and garlic cloves on a foil lined baking sheet.
2. Place under a broiler 2 inches from heat source.  Broil until soft and slightly charred.  About 7 to 9 minutes.*
3. Remove skin from garlic.  
4. Add all to food processor including cilantro, onion and salt.
5. Process till slightly chunky.
6. Enjoy!

* Alternately you can grill everything on the barbecue.

Sweet Marie Bars

This wonderfully easy but delicious cookie bar recipe is a favourite for kids and adults alike.  Chocolate, peanut butter, nuts with that crunch of popped rice is a family favourite reminiscent of that no longer available but classic Canadian chocolate bar.  It's fast and easy and no bake.  Perfect for these hot days of summer when you want dessert but don't want the oven on. 

Go on give them a try.  Bask in the compliments.

Sweet Marie Bars

½ c. Peanut butter (regular or crunchy)

½ c. corn syrup

1¼ c. brown sugar

1 Tbsp. butter

3 c. Rice Krispies

½ c. chopped nuts

1½ c. semi sweet or bittersweet chocolate

1. In a large microwave safe bowl, melt the peanut butter, corn syrup and brown sugar.  Mix 'til smooth.  Add Rice Krispies, butter and chopped nuts.  Mix well.
2. Lightly press mixture into the bottom of a lightly greased 9" x 12" pan.
3. Melt the chocolate in a bowl in the microwave starting for 1 minute then in 20 second increments.  Stir well after each session.  Spread over top of bar.
4. Refrigerate until firm.
5. Cut into bars and enjoy.