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My Lasagna

Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: December 15, 2022

I am by no means a great cook.  I have had my fair share of mishaps in the kitchen.  I have over- seasoned, under-seasoned, burnt, dried, or completely trashed some meals ( ok, my husband would probably say more than some, but he is no one to talk, since he has had mishaps too).  But once in a blue moon I do get it right and come out with something delicious.  I decided to make lasagna the other night and really took my time to get it right and make it flavorful.  No one likes bland lasagna. And my husband is pretty picky about his lasagna.  So this is what I came up with:

(I forgot to put eggs and butter in the picture.  I seem to be on a role of forgetting things lately.  That’s what happens with 2 little ones running around the kitchen, while I am cooking.  Oh well, as long as I don’t forget to put them in the recipe.)

My Lasagna



Ingredients

  • 1 box (9oz) Barilla lasagne (no-boil kind)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 3 Italian sausages
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup parmesan/romano grated cheese
  • 1 1/2 cup sliced baby portabello mushrooms
  • 1/2 medium onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 4 cups (16 oz) mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 jars marinara sauce

Cooking Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  2. Take casings off the 3 sausages by cutting a slit at the top and squeezing out the insides into a pan. Crumble them up with the ground beef and cook until brown. Then drain and set aside.
  3. In another pan place 1/2 tbsp butter and the sliced mushrooms, cook on medium/high until soft and set aside.
  4. Use same pan add the other 1/2 tbsp butter and the diced onion. Cook on medium/high until soft and golden brown.
  5. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the ricotta, 2 cups of mozzarella, and the parmesan/romano cheese. Then add the onion, all the dried spices and the garlic powder. Mix until all is well blended.
  6. Then it’s time to start layering. First I lined my 13 x 9 pan with Reynolds’ Non-Stick Pan Lining Paper. Then spread 1 cup sauce on bottom.
  7. Layer 4 uncooked pasta sheets, 1/3 cup ricotta mixture, half browned meat, 1 cup mozzarella and 1 cup sauce.
  8. Layer 4 uncooked pasta sheets, 1/3 cup ricotta mixture, cooked mushrooms, 1 1/2 cups sauce.
  9. Layer 4 uncooked pasta sheets, the remaining ricotta mixture and browned meat, and 1 cup sauce.
  10. Layer 4 uncooked pasta sheets, the remaining sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella.
  11. Bake covered with foil until bubbly, about 50-60 minutes. Then uncover and continue cooking until cheese is melted, about 5 minutes. (I leave mine uncovered, I like the top crunchy)
  12. Let stand for about 15 minutes. Then cut and serve. Makes about 12 servings.

Carmelized onions add so much flavor to recipes.  And they are so easy to cook.

I love mushrooms and so do my husband and daughter so we use them a lot in recipes.

I had a coupon for this pan liner and wanted to try it out.  I hate scraping dried lasagna. 

I don’t put a foil on top when I bake the lasagna, but if you like your cheese nice and soft go right ahead and foil it.

Otherwise it turns out like this, which is the way I like it.  By the way, the liner worked great.  Saved a lot of time in the clean up.  Hubby really enjoyed this lasagna, so this recipe is a keeper.





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Are Almond Cookies Acidic? Almond Cookies and Acid Reflux

Aneeza Pervez
Are Almond Cookies Acidic

Almond cookies, beloved for their nutty flavor and crumbly texture, are a popular treat worldwide. Whether enjoyed with tea, coffee, or as a standalone snack, these cookies are a staple in many households. However, for individuals managing acid reflux, the question arises: Are almond cookies acidic, and can they trigger reflux symptoms? Understanding the ingredients and their effects on digestion is essential for those seeking a reflux-friendly diet.

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. Dietary choices play a crucial role in managing this condition, and certain foods are more likely to exacerbate symptoms. Almond cookies, while seemingly innocent, contain ingredients that can affect their acidity and impact on reflux. This article delves into the acidity of almond cookies, their nutritional profile, and practical tips for enjoying them without triggering reflux symptoms.

Are Almond Cookies Acidic or Alkaline?

Almond cookies can be slightly acidic, primarily due to the ingredients used in their preparation. Almonds themselves are mildly acidic, with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0, making them relatively neutral compared to other nuts. However, the addition of other ingredients like sugar, butter, and flour can influence the overall acidity of the cookies.



  • Almonds: While almonds are mildly acidic, they are considered alkaline-forming after digestion, meaning they can help balance the body’s pH levels.
  • Sugar and Butter: These ingredients are more acidic and may contribute to acid production in the stomach. Excessive consumption of sugary or buttery foods can lead to digestive discomfort.
  • Flour: Refined white flour, commonly used in cookies, is also mildly acidic and can contribute to reflux symptoms in sensitive individuals.

The overall impact of almond cookies on acid reflux largely depends on portion size, functional food, individual tolerance, and the specific recipe. Homemade almond cookies with minimal sugar and butter may be less likely to trigger reflux than store-bought varieties laden with additives.

Almond Cookies and Acid Reflux: The Connection

1. Ingredients and Their Impact on Reflux

Almond cookies typically contain ingredients like almonds, sugar, butter, eggs, and flour. Each of these components can influence acid reflux:

  • Almonds: As mentioned earlier, almonds are mildly acidic but become alkaline-forming after digestion. They also contain healthy fats that can help coat the stomach lining, potentially reducing acid reflux symptoms.
  • Sugar: High sugar content can stimulate acid production in the stomach, increasing the likelihood of reflux symptoms.
  • Butter and Fat: Foods high in fat, like butter, can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.
  • Refined Flour: This ingredient can spike blood sugar levels and contribute to digestive discomfort in some individuals.

Author Tip: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD

2. Portion Control and Timing

Even if almond cookies are made with reflux-friendly ingredients, consuming large quantities or eating them late at night can increase the risk of acid reflux. The body’s ability to digest and metabolize food slows down during the evening, making it important to eat smaller portions earlier in the day.

Tips for Enjoying Almond Cookies Without Triggering Reflux

1. Opt for Homemade Recipes

Preparing almond cookies at home allows you to control the ingredients. Use:

  • Whole almonds or almond flour for a healthier base.
  • Natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
  • Plant-based oils like coconut or olive oil instead of butter.

2. Pair with Alkaline Foods

To neutralize the acidity of almond cookies, pair them with alkaline foods like:

  • Unsweetened almond milk.
  • Fresh fruits like bananas or melons.
  • Herbal teas, such as chamomile or ginger.

3. Limit Portion Sizes

Stick to one or two small cookies per serving to avoid overloading your stomach. Overeating can increase pressure on the LES and lead to reflux symptoms.



4. Avoid Eating Before Bed

Allow at least 2-3 hours between eating almond cookies and lying down to give your body enough time to digest and reduce the risk of nighttime reflux.

Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis

Health Benefits of Almond Cookies

Almond cookies offer several health benefits when consumed in moderation:

  • Rich in Nutrients: Almonds are a great source of Vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats.
  • Energy Boost: The combination of almonds and natural sweeteners provides a quick energy boost, making them an ideal snack.
  • Gluten-Free Options: Almond flour can be used to make gluten-free almond cookies, suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
  • Supports Heart Health: The healthy fats in almonds can help lower bad cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

Final Thoughts

Are almond cookies acidic? While they do contain mildly acidic ingredients, their overall impact on acid reflux depends on the recipe, portion size, and individual sensitivity. Almonds, the primary ingredient, are alkaline-forming after digestion and can offer health benefits when incorporated into a balanced diet.

To enjoy almond cookies without triggering reflux, opt for homemade recipes with natural sweeteners and minimal butter. Pair them with alkaline foods, control portions, and avoid late-night snacking. By making mindful choices, almond cookies can be a delicious and reflux-friendly treat for those managing acid reflux.



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