Baked Zucchini Half Shells
Submitted by: Barbiel
1 large zucchini
4-6 chopped cherry tomatoes
1 large onion, chopped		 bread crumbs or 4 Saltine crackers, crumbled
4 oz. Mozzarella cheese
 
Cut zucchini in half then lengthwise. Scoop out pulp and chop up, leaving a 1/4 to 1/3 inch shell. Saute onion, zucchini and cherry tomatoes in frying pan until zucchini is tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Put sauteed ingredients into scooped out shells. Sprinkle with cracker crumbs or bread crumbs. Top with Mozzarella cheese, sprinkle on evenly. Bake at 350 degrees in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Makes 4 servings.

Asparagus Casserole
Submitted by: Barbiel
2 cans Green Giant asparagus (tall cans, uncut)
1 stick butter
10 thick slices American cheese		 6 tablespoons Wondra flour
Cheez-its, crushed
casserole dish, approx. 9 x 11 inches or 10 x 10 inches
Preheat oven to 350°F. Drain the asparagus, saving 2/3's of the juice. Make an even layer of asparagus in casserole dish. Cover with even layer of American cheese. In small saucepan, heat the asparagus juice and the butter. Slowly add 6 tablespoons flour, while stirring continuously. As sauce begins to thicken, remove from heat. Spread sauce over cheese. Then cover with crushed Cheez-its and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Serves 4.
Note: Cheez-its may be used heavily (about 1/2 of 1 lb. box) or lightly, according to taste.

Okra with Stewed Tomatoes and Peppers
Submitted by: Barbiel
1 pound fresh okra
1 can stewed tomatoes
1 green bell pepper, chopped 		3 tablespoons fresh onions, chopped
salt and pepper to taste (optional)
1 tablespoon Soy sauce
Wash and place okra in pan with sufficient water and soy sauce to boil for 5 minutes. Drain water. Add stewed tomatoes, bell pepper and onion. Combine all ingredients with the okra and simmer another 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Makes 3-4 servings.

To submit your favorite recipes to be included in the Garden of Friendship Recipe Book, please email them to Barbiel

Background graphics made especially for the Recipes Committee of the Garden of Friendship by Valatine