The Walmart Neighborhood Market

I love to cook but I hate to food shop, especially at the mammoth supercenters here in the South. I miss the small local specialty food stores we have in Boston.

When I have an inspiration to make a special meal, the thought of having to go to one of those mammoth supercenters or food markets for just a few ingredients saps any creative energy I might have. The crowds, the traffic, the parking, the long lines at the checkout say "Forget About It." The energy to find what I need as well as trying to keep focused only on food shopping gives me a headache.

However, recently I tried shopping at my Walmart Neighborhood Market and I was pleasantly surprised. You can get in and out quickly. It is open 24 hours. It's clean, attractive and has nice people. The selection of both fresh and convenience foods is excellent, and I am not tempted to buy a new wardrobe or a big screen TV. I just get what I come in for and go (the prices are good).

I found everything I needed for this awesome supper at my local Walmart Neighborhood Market.

Seafood Chowder:

1 can of tomato bisque
2 cans of chicken broth
1 small container heavy cream
3 chopped green onions
1 can sliced white potatoes (drained)
2 tbsp cooking sherry
2 lbs frozen cooked shrimp (thawed)
1 can crab meat

Directions:

In a large pan bring chicken broth and bisque to a boil.
Add cream, onions, sliced potatoes, and sherry.
Stir for two minutes.
Turn heat to simmer.
add shrimp and crab meat
simmer till heated
don't overcook

I served this "soup" with Jalapeno Honey Corn Muffins, a green salad and a glass of Chardonnay. Something chocolate finishes off the meal.

Jalapeno Honey Corn Muffins:

Directions:

Add sliced jalapenos to regular Jiffy corn muffin mix.
Follow directions on package.
When muffins are done,
poke some holes on the tops
and sprinkle with honey.

Easy Chocolate Mousse Pie:

1 graham cracker crust
1 large container cool-whip
1 large chocolate bar with almonds
grated chocolate
sprinkles

Directions:

melt candy bar over low heat
mix with cool-whip slowly and thoroughly
pour into crust
chill until firm
garnish with grated chocolate and sprinkles