Listeria contaminated fruit? Metal-tainted meats? It’s not a scary story, it’s a real life recall and you may have some of these items in your own home. Please check your kitchen and make sure, especially if you have children, elderly, or ill family members. Some of these items could be deadly. 

Tyson is recalling 69,093 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat chicken strip products. Check the website for exact product codes and locations. 25 states are included on the list.

Henry Avocado is recalling avocados in 6 states, that can be identified by stickers reading “Bravocado,” or “Organic” or “California.”

I personally bought a dozen avocados to make guacamole the day before the recall was issued and it was only by the grace of God that we didn’t eat every one of them! If you bought any of the above, toss it into the trash immediately, secured from kids and pets, or return for a full refund. 

Recalls seems to come frequently these days. Two weeks ago, I had to toss unopened Pillsbury flour that had Salmonella. The FDA regularly updates their danger list and I’m going to start following it more closely and check every label.

Hamantaschen, also known as the official treat of Purim, is normally a sugary, triangle-shaped cookie, made from a butter or cream cheese pastry. While those will never go out of style, a savory version can also be a nice addition.

And if we’re going savory, pizza can’t be beat. 

Family Friends Food created a kid-friendly recipe that uses the standard tomato-and-mozzarella combo. The optional basil leaves make it look so fancy. She includes olives. I made two batches—one with, one without, because some of my littles hate olives. 

If you’re looking for an adult version, What Jew Wanna Eat uses red onions and goat cheese. I made them and they were very good, provided you enjoy strong flavors.

Personally, I think all-purpose flour works best for pizza recipes, but whole wheat can be used if that’s your preference. Toppings, as well, can be customized. 

While these are made especially for Purim, it could work as a year-round appetizer, too. 

What kind of Hamantaschen do you prefer? Sweet or Savory?

Valentine’s Day usually means flowers and candy, but not everyone can tolerate high sugar snacks—those on a diet, diabetics, hyperactive kids, etc. If you want a chocolate alternative, these 5 healthy treats are all fun, no matter what your age may be:

It’s Always Autumn created a clever gift using Cuties that would work well for large crowds.

Local Adventurer created gorgeous Strawberry Roses.

Bren Did created yummy Baked Apple Chips with heart cut-outs.

School Bites created heart-shaped PBJ sandwiches. 

Need something really easy? Cut a heart into an apple like Project Nursery did. 

If you know of another healthy treat, please share!

Roast chicken is a meal that I make often, especially on Friday night for Shabbos. I try to vary the spices/marinate/sauce just to keep things interesting and I’m always on the lookout for new recipes.

One version I will not be making anytime soon—as in, not ever!—would be chicken and pickles. Seriously, this has to be a joke? Or maybe a pregnancy craving? Whichever, it looks downright revolting to me. I shared it on social media and the feedback has ranged from “Nasty” to “Must be a Duggar dish,” which I found truly hilarious. (Duggar fans know that they’re obsessed with pickles, but I doubt even they’d eat such slop.)

If anyone has ever eaten chicken and pickles in real life, please share. I am dying to know what it’s like and where it originates.