Fresh Strawberry Pie

1 baked pie shell (cooled)

5-6 cups fresh strawberries divided

1 cup sugar

3 tablespoons cornstarch

3/4 cup water

3-4 drops red food coloring (optional)

Mash 1 cup strawberries

In a small saucepan combine sugar and cornstarch; stir in water and mashed berries.  Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, stir in food coloring if desired.  Cook and stir for 3 minutes.   Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Slice the remaining strawberries in half and place in baked pie shell.  Pour cooled strawberry glaze over strawberries.  Chill for at least 3 hrs.  Serve with fresh whipped cream.  

Jalapeno Poppers

Everyone loves these, especially Sissy : )

and they're a cinch to make.  

Preheat oven to 375 F.

8 Jalapenos, cut in half lengthwise, remove seeds

1/2 package cream cheese

8 slices bacon, cut in half

Fill jalapenos with cream cheese, wrap with bacon and secure with toothpicks.

Place the poppers on a wire rack over a broiling pan or baking sheet.

Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Enjoy!

Pasta Salad Texas Style

Salad:

1- 16 oz package rotini pasta (I used Barilla Plus this time, wheat pasta would be nice too)

1/2 green pepper, chopped

4-5 (small bunch) green onions, Chopped

handful of grape or cherry tomatoes, chopped

1 small can sliced black olives

Dressing:

1 packet taco seasoning

1/4 cup vinegar

3 tablespoons water

1/2 cup oil

Prepare pasta according to package instructions, drain and set aside.

Wisk together dressing ingredients

Toss veggies with warm pasta, and dressing.

Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.