Feet Under My Table

Roasted Beets- A Favorite Side

Leslie J Watkins — Wed, 27 May 2026 17:17:22 +0000

Are you a beet lover? I know you are either a lover or hater of beets. It’s one of those vegetables. I love them any way they are prepared. Canned, pickled, cold, warm…and then I made roasted beets. OH, MY! The roasting brings out the sugars in the beets and gives them the BEST flavor. Perfect just as a side. A great addition to salads with a bit of arugula, kale or feta. Yes, please. This is truly the easiest recipe ever. If you want to protect your hands from the red color from the beets that may linger…don some gloves. So here you go: The Roasted Beets Recipe. It’s so easy it doesn’t need one. But in case you need to remember exactly how to repeat the results, save, pin or print this one. This may be my very favorite way to eat fresh beets. The sugars that roasting brings out in the beets is perfect for a side or added to a salad. You may have done this before…but for me? This was a first. I’m not sure why…but its a new favorite. Quick. Easy. Delicious. Hope you give this one a try! If you need more seasonal salads, here you go: Hope you enjoy all of the fresh vegetables and summer favorite recipes to enjoy them! Thanks so much for joining me here…your presence is so loved,

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How to Use AI for Garden Planning

Leslie J Watkins — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:51:42 +0000

I don’t know if you’ve gone down the bunny hole with AI yet…but I truly needed inspiration for a backyard garden planning update. If you’ve followed along you’ve seen my 8′ tall zinnia bed that sometimes I plant and other years they have self seeded. I’m a fan of a perennial garden since they return every year and bring me joy. There have been so many configurations of this tiny rectangle of a space between a picket fence, screened porch and two sidewalks that I have been exhausted with each redo. It’s been sketched by my friend, Ro, a master gardener…landscaped by a landscape architect…and nothing ever seemed to stick. Hence, the AI tool for garden planning. With the expanse of ugly gravel and the grass less than beautiful in this area, and 2 tired raised beds, I needed ideas for improvement. You have probably seen all of the use for interior updates with AI…why not use AI for garden planning and inspiration? That’s where I started. How to begin with AI for Garden Planning? Well, if you use a FREE version of Google Gemini and/or ChatGPT, you get a limited number of responses for each in a 24 hour period. NOTE: Photo credit of simulated photos in this post were created by Google Gemini. So…here are the tips on how to use AI for garden planning that I found useful. 1. First, take photos of the area in it’s current state from different angles. The photos are a great starting point for the program to modify. Have them ready to upload. I did find that only uploading ONE photo at a time worked best. Specific details that you want AI to know about your photo are helpful. I let the program know that there were zinnias that will grow to 8′ along the picket fence; that the concrete table on the patio would stay in place, etc. Even sunlight and shade information is helpful for plant and landscaping suggestions. 2. Curate prompts. Since a free AI version gives you a limited number of responses in a 24 hour period, be careful on how you curate the prompts. First, carefully give the plan guidance…some of my wording was: Next, upload your photo with the prompt to save versions. Ask AI to use the photo and prompts to give you a visual photo and information. CHAT/GPT actually gave me plants labeled and a list which was helpful. If you want that you might actually ask that with your prompts. In my opinion, Google Gemini did a better job of photo creations. If you are like me, visual photos are a must. Don’t forget to ask for photos in your prompts. 3. Revise. Look carefully at the photo and information it gives you for revision. Often, unless you give specific dimensions of the area, the photo may be out of proportion; it may interpret things incorrectly–it thought my swan concrete planter on a concrete table was a birdbath and wanted to move it around the yard. When I gave it a second photo it seemed to think we needed a sidewalk from the bench to nowhere and not centered….a seating area that wouldn’t fit…and styles of pots that I would never choose. If you don’t give it a style? It may go way out of the style you love. 4. Save results. When you find a photo you like…even if only a portion of it, save it to your photos, print it out and that way you can determine which parts to use and which to toss. This was a design using a “secret garden” theme. We actually love seeing over the picket fence to watch wildlife and the driveway. Isn’t the meandering path delightful? It saved the raised beds, switched out seating, and added a tree that gave inspiration. This photo was from the second uploaded photo and we loved the less maintenance, perennials, and meandering walkway. And guess what? NOTE: A photo will sometimes highlight areas that need a bit of update, too. Plans for pressure washing, painting and changing out lattice were already happening…so you will likely see an update for those areas, too. The beds are great in this one, so we took this as our inspiration. Again, there is not enough space for seating to the left of the deck steps. So we deleted the table set there. The difficult thing with this backyard is the amount of larger rock that was put in as landscaping before we bought the house years ago. Some areas under hostas and around trees and side beds have had mulch added and it’s held; other areas? the mulch has washed away in a few months leaving the rocks in sight again. If you have that issue in your landscape, select a different rock that you are happier with for a refresh, cover, and don’t fight the battle like we have. 5. Set your plan into place. Begin by adapting the plan you like best and measuring different areas to center, arrange, and implement areas to create the perfect AI inspired garden plan. Putting the AI Inspired Garden Plan into action. A Skid Steer was rented. Mulch, gravel, and edging purchased. Friends joined in the fun. Can I tell you that I thought I would be entertaining kids…nope! They ALL were extremely hard workers for 8 hours. Needless to say, we had to reward their excellent labor. Workers aged 11, 9, 7 and 4 (plus their Dad) all pulled their weight. We now have new workers that LOVE helping spread mulch, set edging, and level gravel. Who knew? What do you think? Didn’t they do a great job? So how to finish that garden plan? On to perennials and plants to fill the beds. About 5 more edging stones to complete the beds. Can I tell you that there’s something wonderful about getting perennials from family and friends? My friend, Kim, at Cottage in the Mitten, also shared about how wonderful it is to received perennials from friends. You can read her story here. So many perennials were gifted by Aunt Helen years ago. Hostas, Iris and peonies are my favorite reminders of her. Gifts from her garden after we first moved in. So the beginning of additions to these new beds were gifts. My niece, Emi, arrived with perennials divided from her garden. Lambs ear, coneflower, catmint and more were planted by her. She warned me that they would not be happy for a few days…poor little lamb’s ear… White lilac gifted to me from her Michigan trip will be tucked in soon…along with more. A variety of pink, yellow, purple, lilac, and white so far will be more glorious next year as they root in and settle into their new bed. Emi gifted me this beautiful David Austin Vanessa rose a few years ago and it is simply stunning all summer long. She is a gifted gardener. My friend, Wade, with an amazing green thumb, has gifted me roses, foxglove and more. They are treasured. So looking forward to the bouquets that the summer will bring. But, my favorite? Enjoying the blooming and rewards that perennials bring every year. Savings for the garden budget for following years. I’ll take that. THANK YOU Fix family! You truly worked your magic with us on this project! Oh, my goodness…for littles to say they LOVED helping…even the 4 year old? It adds the perfect touch to the finished look. Keep watching for the finished plant beds…and I’ll be sharing as I continue to fill in and complete the cottage garden. Most of all? Enjoy the inspiration that AI provides for garden planning. Take time to consider which perennials to group into sun and watering areas. Determine height, size and plants that work well together. And you know what? If you don’t actually put the plan into action? It’s still fun to see what inspiration you can create. Consider an herb garden…pollinator inviting plants…and what will bring you joy. Color, vibrancy, and plants that will do well in your new garden area. What plants would you choose? Roses? Hydrangea? catmint? rosemary? lavendar? coneflower? lambs ear? sooooo many choices. Can I tell you that learning how to plan a garden with AI was some of the BEST inspiration I’ve had in a while?! Wish me luck in planting! Happy gardening,

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Would You Love the Best Pickled Okra?

Leslie J Watkins — Tue, 12 May 2026 20:51:07 +0000

Do you love pickled okra? It is the EASIEST and FASTEST canning recipe ever! You don't want to miss this recipe!

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Cinco de Mayo Favorite Recipes

Leslie J Watkins — Tue, 05 May 2026 14:32:57 +0000

Happy Cinco de Mayo! Are you like me and love to have favorite Cinco de Mayo recipes? We love Mexican recipes any time of year…so what better time to celebrate, right? If you have followed me long, you know that I have shared a few of my favorite Mexican recipes along the way…so today? Cinco de Mayo favorite recipes all in one spot. Perfect. Gathered in one spot for you to create today or tonight’s menu. So, here we go! Tiny Tacos Yep, these are still a favorite for a quick easy night’s dinner or appetizer. The perfect ratio of meat, cheese, beans to chip that somehow work better at times than nachos. Here’s the recipe. Lime Salsa The BEST lime salsa is always a favorite when there are feet under my table. The fresh and perfect flavor makes this one go fast. Taco Soup The flavors in this taco soup are wonderful. If your day is a bit dreary and rainy like it is here? The perfect addition to your Cinco de Mayo menu. Taco Ring Oh, my goodness. This Pampered Chef inspired recipe has been served for decades here. The taco ring is a delicious showstopper. I’m seeing a taco theme appearing…if you are loving a lighter version to add to your Cinco de Mayo celebration? These lettuce versions may be just right. Lettuce Wrap Tacos And if you need a homemade taco seasoning? You can find it here. Mexican Enchilada Casserole and last, but certainly not least, the Mexican Enchilada Casserole. An absolute favorite. A crockpot recipe that is a crowd pleaser. So, now what will you add to your menu? Here are a few fun things to make your celebrations and preparing your favorite Mexican dishes better. I’d LOVE to know in the comments. Thanks for joining me today…and may those you have your feet under a table with today share great food, conversation and celebration!

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Sprite Biscuits

Leslie J Watkins — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:19:32 +0000

I know sprite biscuits have been around a long time. I would love to know how many pans of these have been served to those who have had their feet under my table. Seriously. Then I had to create a gluten free biscuit recipe because there’s now a need with those who have their feet under my table. The crazy biscuit recipe that you may have found here was great; but, I discovered a secret a few of years ago after I posted that one. Sprite Biscuits–All I have to do is mention them… That’s it! If it’s known I am making them…there are several who will be at my door. Do you have recipes like that? And when my niece and the family from Japan arrived and I doubled the recipe for these in a lodge cast iron pan??? I thought there might be a fight over them. Every bite of each pan was eaten. They made a repeat appearance with a jam bar. If you have followed me long? You know that I LOVE making jam. That resulted in a review of which jam was their favorite with these biscuits. Here were the contenders: Can you guess which jam was their favorite? They loved ALL of them…but there was a tie between the carrot cake and the apple jam. So, here’s the BEST biscuit recipe… or as my friend has named them…crazy biscuits…but in a new and improved method. Pans of these have been made for family gatherings. Always requested. Always made and enjoyed. These are just so light, fluffy and buttery that they are the favorite biscuits to make. I love a cast iron skillet for these…here are a few of my favorites: Enjoy, friends!

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Lemon Buttermilk Pie

Leslie J Watkins — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:10:25 +0000

Have you heard of a lemon buttermilk pie? or eaten one? Since finding and enjoying P Allen Smith’s buttermilk pie –a custardy version of pecan pie–I need more buttermilk pie in my life. This lemon buttermilk pie ticked all the boxes. A great lemon pie. Check. Custardy deliciousness provided by the buttermilk. Check. Homemade crust happened here, too. Check. Or perhaps…check, check, check. Oh, my goodness. Adding this lemon buttermilk pie recipe to favorites was a no brainer… Now, if you want to make this in a frozen or roll out ready made pie crust, you will find no judgment here. Because I knew that any version of buttermilk pie would rise to the occasion of homemade, that’s what happened here. You choose. Gather all your ingredients and prep first…you know the drill. With fresh mint readily available, add a bit to decorate the pie. Be careful with the lemon slices…pat dry and add just before serving to prevent the lemon juice from melting the crust on the pie. Enjoy this pie at room temperature right after cooling or chilled with fresh whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. Either version is delicious. Now–you choose your favorite version. So…are you more of a pie lover? or a cake lover? For me…pies were what was made for celebrations. Chocolate pie, chess pie, coconut pie or pecan pie were what donned our serving tables. Hmmmm…I may have to share those favorite recipes with you…right? But this lemon buttermilk pie may be right up there with the pecan buttermilk pie. This one may be added to the Mother’s Day menu along with a lemon blueberry salad and Salmon Wellington. How about you? What will you serve with this lemon pie? Enjoy this one, friends!

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Salmon Wellington

Leslie J Watkins — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:14:18 +0000

I don’t know about you, but Beef Wellington is always a special favorite dish created by my niece or sister. But, have you had Salmon Wellington? When I ran across a recipe suggesting you use salmon? Oh, my! Yes, please. Some of the ingredients I discarded and added in others to take it up a notch. You may have seen me share it in the VUE magazine here. But, a recipe card here felt fitting…with more details to help you create this one. Tips in creating Salmon Wellington First, make it easy on yourself and buy the deboned, skinless salmon. If you can buy salmon fillets that are about 5 to 7 oz, then buy four of those and save yourself a bit of time. If you are great at removing the skin and bones from salmon, go for it. Just cut the salmon in 4 equal portions. Next, I found using fresh spinach didn’t produce as much water content which kept the pastry from being soggy when baked. That’s a win in my book. Then, you’ll need to thaw the puff pastry and soften the cream cheese when getting ready to create these. Measuring and prepping all ingredients is the most important place to begin. Everything just seems to go better when everything is measured, minced, juiced, zested…you get the idea. One other thing–decide if you want your filling to be on top or bottom of the salmon in the pastry…the way you add it will determine how it bakes. If you want the filling on top in the pastry after baking, place it underneath your salmon…and if you want it on the bottom, add it to the top when creating. You will actually wrap the wrapped pastry over the top and then flip over to add crosshatch marks and bake. So, let’s begin… I am so very thankful I gave this Salmon Wellington recipe a try. It is NOW on my favorites list for special occasions. The flavors of lemon and dill are perfect for spring entertaining. Don’t you think? One of my favorite parts of this recipe? Add them to food saver bags in the freezer to enjoy again later. Make ahead. Rewarm in the oven until they are warmed through and crispy. Steer clear of the microwave for rewarming…they will be soggy if you do that. Don’t skip the lemon dill sauce either. An incredible addition, for sure! I think this recipe will be served for a Mother’s Day lunch…add a fresh salad and a lemon buttermilk pie. I think this may be my best menu ever. Need more fish entrees? I got you. Happy Baking, friends!

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Parmesan Bread Sticks

Leslie J Watkins — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:50:49 +0000

Every now and then a different form of bread adds a lift to your menu. These Parmesan bread sticks are so quick and easy…and OH, so good! Simple ingredients. A quick put together to create a surprisingly delicious bread that pairs so well with soups, salads, or an Italian entree. Plus, it just makes the meal feel more special. If you missed these in the Vue magazine here you go. Parmesan bread sticks to elevate to your menu. Stand in a glass for a different way to serve them. A different take on how to create and serve Parmesan bread sticks. So good…so easy…and the perfect addition to the menu. Such an easy new twist on serving bread for all the gathering you may have. Hope you give these a try. My family is in love. Here are more of my favorite breads if you need to add more to your menu. Don’t forget to pin them! Happy gathering with feet under your table, friends,

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Chocolate Chow Mein Bird Nests

Leslie J Watkins — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:00:30 +0000

This is a great showstopper dessert that everyone will love. We do eat with our eyes first, right? Well, these chocolate chow mein bird nests will please everyone’s eyes and their palette. They tick off all the boxes for creativity and flavor. Featured in this month’s VUE magazine, I thought those of you who may have missed it may love the recipe. Last week I shared the Cocoa Krispies bird nests created in a muffin tin. But these give you more of realistic look at a birds nest which I love. Have you ever made chocolate chow mein bird nests? These are SOOOO fast and easy, that including the kids in these creations will be perfect. First, measure your ingredients out and cover a baking sheet with parchment. Next, add your chocolate chips and peanut butter (or other flavor of your choice) chips to a microwave safe bowl and melt on low setting, stirring often until til the mixture is melted and smooth. Add in your chow mein noodles and mix to coat. Drop by spoonfuls onto the parchment paper and then indent the center of each “bird nest” and add 3 Cadbury mini eggs to each nest. Just add to the fridge to chill and firmly set. Can you believe how easy that is? I simply store them in a cookie jar or tin with parchment paper in between to keep until ready to serve. You can keep them in the fridge, too. A great way to celebrate Easter! And a different way to enjoy those mini Cadbury eggs. Use as centerpieces for your place settings…or wrap in clear bags with ribbon to tuck into Easter Baskets. This one will be one you want to pin, save and create. Happy Easter!

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Cocoa Krispies Bird Nests

Leslie J Watkins — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 15:16:15 +0000

I love a creative way to use food for decorations and still be enjoyed as part of the meal. As I was looking for ideas to decorate my Easter table, these Cocoa Krispies bird nests were adorable. Also? I know that those who have their feet under my table will enjoy the chocolate AND the peanut butter flavor that these nests offer. What I love about this recipe? It is so quick, easy and delicious. Plus, you can make them ahead and keep them stored in an airtight container in the fridge so making ahead is genius. Have you made Cocoa Krispies bird nests? I have made different recipes of these before…some from chow mein noodles…and now these. These are made with cocoa krispies, peanut butter and chocolate chips. And then, of course, filled with those great Cadbury Easter eggs. Most of us have a muffin tin and that’s the only equipment you really need other than melting ingredients in the microwave. Without further ado, here’s the recipe. Aren’t they the cutest? I love how the Cocoa Krispies add a bit of crunch even after adding the chocolate and peanut butter. Since they are made from rice, they did not create issues for our gluten sensitive friends which was a win! After adding back to the fridge to harden, remove them from the muffin tin and add to an airtight container to store in the fridge or freezer. These are so loved by all. Happy Easter baking, friends! Thanks for joining me here,

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