Tuna Dip

I've seen a dozen variations on this recipe online, but the basics are 1) canned tuna 2) dairy spread like cream cheese or sour cream and 3) spices.  So for the big game yesterday, I threw together my own version and kicked it up with some veggies too.   Enjoy!

Ingredients:
1 can tuna, drained
1/4 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons peeled and diced carrot
1 package cream cheese, room temperature
1 tablespoon liquid smoke (you can also use mesquite seasoning)
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper
milk (optional)

Directions:
1.  Combine tuna, onion, garlic and carrot in a mixing bowl.  Stir in cream cheese until well combined. (Letting the cream cheese "thaw" at room temperature beforehand makes it easier to stir)
2.  Add liquid smoke, paprika, salt and pepper.  Taste the mixture and add more of any seasoning if desired.
3.  If you prefer a thick spread, the dip is finished.  However, if you would like a softer, creamier texture, you can add a few tablespoons of milk.
4.  Serve with crackers, potato chips or vegetables to dip with.
Note:  fish design made using a paper stencil and a sprinkle of paprika.

Latin Style Baked Fish

This is a War Kitten version of my favorite Latin dish- stewed fish with veggies.  Serve with rice, beans or tostones (fried plantains).

Ingredients:
1 fillet Mahi Mahi (or any other fish, as long as it's a thick fillet)
Olive oil
Salt and Pepper
1/4 teaspoon oregano
1/2 green pepper, chopped
1/4 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, diced
1 tomato, chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.  Brush olive oil over the top of the fish, then season with salt, pepper and oregano. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
2.While fish is cooking, heat pepper, onion and garlic with one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until tender.
3. Stir in tomatoes and tomato paste, reduce heat and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
4. When fish is cooked, divide onto two plates.  Scoop the vegetable mixture on top of the fish.  Serves two.