Easy Baked Feta Pasta Recipe: A Straightforward Guide
# Baked Feta Pasta: An Easy and Tasty Meal
This baked feta pasta recipe is an enjoyable mix of roasted cherry tomatoes, rich feta cheese, and soft penne pasta, all unified with a few ingredients. It’s a meal that delivers a flavor explosion in every mouthful while requiring minimal effort, making it ideal for a swift weeknight supper.
## Flavor Profile
The baked feta pasta is rich and zesty, thanks to the feta cheese, while the roasted cherry tomatoes contribute a sweet and juicy contrast. The dish is flavored with Italian herbs and a hint of chili flakes, elevating its overall taste without overpowering the palate.
## Skill Level
This recipe is exceptionally simple to make, making it ideal for cooks of any experience level. With everything cooked in a single pan, cleanup is quick and easy, allowing you to relish your meal without dealing with a pile of dishes.
## Budget-Friendly Tips
One of the greatest features of this dish is its adaptability. You can effortlessly use leftover vegetables from your refrigerator or garden, making it a fantastic way to reduce food waste while preparing a delicious vegetarian meal.
## Basic Ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta
1. **Feta Cheese**: The highlight of the dish, offering a salty and tangy taste. Opt for a whole block for optimal results.
2. **Cherry Tomatoes**: Their sweetness and juiciness make them perfect for roasting.
3. **Seasonings**: Italian seasoning can be either store-bought or homemade, adding richness to the dish.
4. **Pasta**: Rotini, penne, bucatini, or shells are best, as they beautifully cling to the sauce.
## Easy & Delicious Variations
– **Add Vegetables**: Mix in chopped spinach, black olives, sliced zucchini, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
– **Tomato Substitutes**: If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, diced Roma or garden tomatoes will work in a hurry.
– **Protein Boost**: Incorporate mini meatballs, ground Italian sausage, or any leftover meat for a heartier dish.
## Cooking Tips
– **Olive Oil**: Ensure to use enough olive oil; it’s crucial for uniform roasting and flavor.
– **Pasta Cooking**: Prepare the pasta al dente and save some pasta water to modify the sauce’s consistency later.
– **Prep Ahead**: You can roast the feta and tomatoes beforehand and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to mix them with the pasta.
– **Quality Ingredients**: Using high-quality feta cheese will greatly improve the dish’s flavor.
## Serving & Storing
Leftover baked feta pasta can be kept in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad or warmed up with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
## Conclusion
Baked feta pasta is an uncomplicated yet delectable dish that merges the creaminess of feta with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes, making it a favorite for many. Whether cooking for yourself or a family, this recipe is bound to impress with its simplicity and flavor. Savor this delightful meal any evening of the week!
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Tamale Pie with Cornbread Crust: An All-in-One Meal Solution
### About the Author: Holly Nilsson
Holly Nilsson is the imaginative mind behind Spend With Pennies, a site devoted to offering simple and comforting recipes designed for everyday meals. With a profound enthusiasm for nostalgic tastes and straightforward cooking methods, Holly inspires busy home chefs to create delightful dishes that are both fulfilling and attainable.
Her culinary adventure is captured in her book, “Everyday Comfort,” which acts as a wellspring of inspiration for those wanting to prepare hearty, homemade dishes. Holly’s cooking philosophy highlights the significance of crafting meals that resonate with personal history while being reachable for cooks of all proficiency levels.
For those eager to delve into more of Holly’s culinary creations and ideas, you can view her articles on her website [Spend With Pennies](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/author/holly/).
### Follow Holly on Social Media
Keep in touch with Holly and find more recipes and cooking advice by following her on social media:
– [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/spendpennies/)
– [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/ispendwithpennies/)
– [Twitter](http://spendpennies)
– [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/spendpennies/)
Homemade Robust Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
### Chicken and Dumplings: An Indulgent Comfort Food Favorite
Succulent chicken, airy dumplings, and a velvety broth unite in this classic homestyle dish. Packed with delightful flavors, it’s the ideal Sunday meal or a cozy comfort food option!
#### Flavor Profile
The deeply flavored and savory broth is brimming with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, resulting in a meal that is both fulfilling and heartwarming.
#### Time-Saving Tip
To minimize preparation time while still keeping the taste intact, think about utilizing frozen vegetables and biscuit mix.
#### Recommended Tools
A pizza cutter streamlines the process of slicing dumplings into perfect strips, ensuring consistency and convenience in preparation.
#### Serving Suggestions
For a family-style dining occasion, keep the chicken and dumplings heated in a slow cooker. Serve with homemade breadsticks to absorb all that luscious broth.
### Ingredient Tips for Chicken and Dumplings
– **Chicken Base:** You can choose a mix of chicken up to 5 pounds for the broth. A whole bone-in chicken adds more richness, while leftover cooked pieces still contribute flavor without requiring a whole bird. If using frozen chicken, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
– **Vegetables:** A mirepoix (onion, carrots, celery) acts as the base for a sweet and savory balance in this recipe.
– **Dumplings:** These simple dumplings are soft and fluffy, made from pantry essentials. If you’re short on time, you can substitute with any pasta that features tubes or ridges to capture the creamy broth.
### How to Make Chicken and Dumplings
1. **Cook the Broth and Chicken:** In a large pot, combine chicken, onion, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Pour in chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer covered for 45-60 minutes until the chicken is tender.
2. **Prepare the Dumplings:** While the broth simmers, make the dumplings (full recipe below) and cook until they are tender.
3. **Adjust Seasonings and Serve:** Strain the broth, shred the chicken, and return everything to the pot. Modify the seasonings as necessary and serve hot.
### Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions on the stovetop or in the microwave. For extended storage, freeze chicken apart from the dumplings for up to 4 months. Dumplings can be individually frozen but are best when freshly made.
### More Cozy Chicken Recipes
Discover more comforting chicken recipes that are perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
### Did You Enjoy This Chicken and Dumplings Recipe?
Please leave a comment and rating below to share your experience!
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#### Recipe: Chicken and Dumplings
– **Prep Time:** 30 minutes
– **Cook Time:** 1 hour 15 minutes
– **Total Time:** 1 hour 45 minutes
– **Servings:** 8
##### Ingredients
– For the Dumplings:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup shortening
– 3/4 cup milk (or more as needed)
##### Instructions
1. In a large soup pot, mix chicken, onion, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer covered for 45-60 minutes until chicken is tender.
2. Strain the broth using cheesecloth. Shred or chop the chicken, discarding skin and bones. Return the strained broth to the pot and bring to a boil again.
3. Make the dumplings by blending flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening until crumbly. Gradually add milk until a soft dough forms. Roll out and cut into strips.
4. Carefully place dumplings into the boiling broth and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender. Stir in chicken and cook until warmed through.
##### Nutrition Information (per serving)
– Calories: 461
– Carbohydrates: 33g
– Protein: 27g
– Fat: 25g
– Fiber: 2g
This traditional chicken and dumplings recipe is a beloved comfort food that the entire family will relish.
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Easy Teriyaki Salmon Recipe with Made-from-Scratch Glaze
### Teriyaki Salmon: A Tasty Weeknight Meal
Fresh, tender salmon fillets make a wonderful selection for a fast and healthful weeknight dinner. When pan-seared and finished with a sweet-savory teriyaki glaze, they transform into a delicious focal point that complements rice and steamed vegetables perfectly. This meal is not only simple to make but also bursting with flavor, ideal for hectic evenings.
#### Flavor Profile
The teriyaki glaze combines savory soy sauce and garlic, harmonized with the sweetness of brown sugar and ginger. Finished with toasted sesame seeds, this dish presents a pleasing crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the overall dining experience.
#### Preparation Tips
– **Toasting Sesame Seeds**: Gently toast sesame seeds in a dry pan beforehand to boost their flavor.
– **Using a Meat Thermometer**: To prevent overcooking the salmon, a meat thermometer can verify that the fish achieves the ideal internal temperature of 145°F.
– **Time-Saving**: To speed up the cooking process, think about utilizing store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of preparing it from scratch.
### Ingredient Tips for Teriyaki Salmon
1. **Salmon**: Opt for firm, vividly colored salmon fillets free from tears or discolorations. If using frozen fillets, make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry prior to cooking.
2. **Soy Sauce**: Reduced-sodium soy sauce is advisable for a healthier choice, although regular soy sauce is equally effective.
3. **Ginger & Garlic**: Fresh ingredients deliver the best flavors, but you can use paste or powder if needed. Store ginger in the freezer for convenient grating.
4. **Brown Sugar**: This component imparts the distinctive sweetness to the teriyaki sauce. Honey can serve as an alternative.
5. **Garnish**: Incorporate chopped green onions in both the sauce and as a topping. Sesame seeds provide a unique nutty flavor.
### How to Prepare Teriyaki Salmon
1. **Prepare the Sauce**: In a small saucepan, mix soy sauce, water, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and mustard. Whisk and bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat.
2. **Thicken the Sauce**: Combine cornstarch with cold water and slowly add it to the simmering sauce until it reaches the desired thickness. Stir in sesame seeds and green onions, then set aside.
3. **Sear the Salmon**: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down. Cook for 4-6 minutes on each side until they flake easily.
4. **Serve**: Remove from heat, drizzle the teriyaki sauce over the salmon, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve alongside rice or noodles.
### Cooking Tips
– **Avoid Overcooking**: Tailor cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon fillets. The fish should flake with a fork and remain slightly translucent in the center.
– **Flavor Variations**: For a twist, substitute half of the water in the sauce with orange or pineapple juice. If using pre-made sauce, add citrus juice for added brightness.
### Enjoy the Flavor
Leftover teriyaki salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The glaze can also serve as a marinade for chicken, pork, or shrimp, making it a flexible addition to your weeknight recipes.
### Nutrition Information
– **Calories**: 116
– **Carbohydrates**: 10g
– **Protein**: 2g
– **Fat**: 8g
– **Sodium**: 578mg
This teriyaki salmon recipe is a superb way to relish a delicious and health-conscious meal that the entire family will appreciate. Savor the richness of flavors and the simplicity of preparation, establishing it as a staple recipe for busy nights!
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Adaptable Carrot Salad Recipe for All-Year Delight
### About the Author: Holly Nilsson
Holly Nilsson is the visionary behind Spend With Pennies, a site devoted to offering straightforward and comforting recipes that address the realities of everyday cooking. Fueled by a love for nostalgic tastes and uncomplicated cooking methods, Holly’s mission is to enable busy home chefs to create delightful dishes that are both enjoyable and doable.
Her culinary adventure is captured in her book, “Everyday Comfort,” which acts as a source of inspiration for readers seeking hearty, home-cooked delights. Holly’s method highlights the significance of crafting meals that bring about a sense of warmth and familiarity, transforming cooking into a pleasurable activity instead of a task.
For those interested in delving deeper into Holly’s culinary innovations, her posts and recipes are available on her website.
#### Follow Holly on Social Media:
– [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/spendpennies/)
– [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/ispendwithpennies/)
– [Twitter](http://spendpennies)
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Holly Nilsson continues to motivate home cooks with her commitment to making cooking approachable and enjoyable for everyone.
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One-Pot Beefaroni Recipe: Kid-Approved and Freezer-Friendly Dish
# Homemade Beefaroni: A Comforting Classic
Homemade beefaroni is a beloved dish that features ground beef simmered in a rich, cheesy tomato sauce paired with soft pasta, making it an ideal comfort food for any event. This one-pot recipe is not only straightforward to make but also offers deep flavors that delight both children and adults.
## Flavor Characteristics
The taste of homemade beefaroni is robust and filling, defined by a creamy, cheesy tomato-beef sauce that coats each piece of pasta. The blend of spices and the richness from the cream cheese contributes to a smooth texture that elevates the dish’s overall flavor.
## Skill Requirement
This recipe is crafted for ease, making it perfect for hectic weeknights or game day celebrations. With only one pot needed, cleanup is simple, allowing you to concentrate on savoring your meal.
## Suggested Tools
A meat chopper is recommended for finely breaking ground beef, ensuring uniform cooking and a delightful bite.
## Ingredient Suggestions for Homemade Beefaroni
– **Beef:** For this recipe, lean ground beef is ideal, although medium or regular ground beef will work as well. Just remember to drain any excess fat post-cooking.
– **Pasta:** While large elbow or ziti noodles are common, any medium-sized pasta like penne, cavatappi, or rotini can be used. For a unique twist, consider Cresti de Gallo noodles, adjusting cooking times as needed.
– **Cheesy Sauce:** The key to a delectable cheesy sauce is the use of cream cheese, which blends perfectly into the sauce, providing a rich and creamy consistency.
## Delightfully Simple Variations
– Incorporate healthy vegetables such as shredded zucchini, carrots, sliced mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
– Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese mix for a varied flavor profile.
– For a more succulent meat sauce, you might add Italian seasoned ground pork, or explore using ground chicken or turkey as alternatives.
## Cooking Recommendations
– Utilize a wide saucepan to ensure the pasta cooks evenly in the sauce, guaranteeing that every morsel is flavorful.
– Allow for a resting period after cooking; this helps the sauce thicken and adhere better to the pasta.
– If you intend to freeze leftovers, slightly undercook the pasta to avoid mushiness during reheating. Adding a little broth while reheating can enhance the taste.
## Second-Day Delight
Leftover beefaroni often becomes even tastier the following day as the flavors meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat servings on the stovetop or in the microwave. Leftover beefaroni can also be creatively repurposed in other dishes, such as placed on a bun for a sloppy joe-style sandwich or rolled into a wrap for a hearty lunch.
## Conclusion
Homemade beefaroni transcends merely being a dish; it is a comforting meal that evokes nostalgia and fulfills cravings. With its rich taste and simple preparation, it’s an excellent choice for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Try this recipe and indulge in a hearty serving of nostalgia on your plate!
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Bruschetta Chicken: A Zesty and Delicious Recipe
### Bruschetta Chicken in Marinade: A Tasty, Breadless Treat
Marinated chicken breasts provide a tasty and adaptable choice for dinner, particularly when baked beneath layers of succulent tomatoes, gooey mozzarella, and finished off with a traditional tomato bruschetta topping. This recipe encompasses all the beloved flavors of bruschetta without any bread, making it an ideal selection for those seeking a lighter dining option.
#### Taste Profile
The blend of juicy, zesty chicken, melted cheese, and a fresh, garlicky bruschetta garnish results in a dish that is not just fulfilling but also packed with flavor. The marinade, crafted from pantry essentials, amplifies the chicken’s inherent taste, while the toppings contribute a revitalizing element.
#### Tips for Preparation
– **Prep Ahead**: You can prepare the tomato blend in advance, facilitating a swift cooking process when it’s time to eat. Searing the chicken right before baking guarantees a delectable crust.
– **Key Tools**: A meat thermometer is advisable to confirm that the chicken achieves the perfect internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring juicy outcomes every time.
#### Suggestions for Serving
This dish complements a variety of sides wonderfully. Think about serving it atop garlic-infused mashed potatoes, creamy pesto pasta, or zucchini noodles. A simple green salad and some breadsticks are fantastic extras to soak up the marinara sauce.
### Ingredient Insights for Bruschetta Chicken
– **Chicken**: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect, although chicken thighs or frozen cutlets can also suffice. Adjust the roasting duration as needed.
– **Tomatoes**: Fresh cherry or grape tomatoes are suggested for their flavor and appeal, although Romas serve as a good substitute.
– **Marinade**: A straightforward blend of Italian herbs, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and oil results in an easy yet flavorful marinade. Convenience can also be found in using store-bought Italian dressing.
– **Cheese**: Fresh mozzarella provides richness, but you can easily swap it out for shredded mozzarella, feta, or parmesan.
### Popular Variations
To add a Mediterranean flair to this dish, consider incorporating sliced black or kalamata olives, mushrooms, chopped spinach, or shredded zucchini for enhanced nutrients and color. Fresh basil is essential for authenticity and can be used as a garnish prior to serving.
### Storing Leftovers
Keep any remaining bruschetta chicken in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave, and think about serving it on a bed of greens or stuffing it into a pita pocket for a fulfilling lunch.
### Nutritional Facts
This dish is not only flavorful but also nutritious, providing a balanced meal with protein and healthy fats. Each serving approximately contains:
– **Calories**: 411
– **Protein**: 32g
– **Carbohydrates**: 10g
– **Fat**: 27g
### Final Thoughts
Marinated bruschetta chicken is a delightful meal that merges the finest of Italian flavors into a healthy, breadless version. With its straightforward preparation and flexible serving ideas, it’s a superb option for any weeknight dinner. Relish the explosion of flavors and the pleasure of a wholesome meal!
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Weekly Meal Schedule for September 1, 2025
### About the Author: Holly Nilsson
Holly Nilsson is the visionary behind Spend With Pennies, a site dedicated to sharing simple and comforting recipes designed for everyday cooking. With a profound love for nostalgic flavors and straightforward cooking methods, Holly strives to help busy home cooks whip up tasty meals that are both enjoyable and dependable.
Her culinary adventure extends beyond just recipes; it’s about making cooking approachable and enjoyable for all. Holly’s philosophy emphasizes the value of comfort food, inspired by familiar flavors that evoke feelings of warmth and joy. This belief is captured in her book, “Everyday Comfort,” which acts as a source of inspiration for readers to prepare hearty, homemade dishes that unite families.
For those eager to delve into more of Holly’s culinary masterpieces, you can discover additional articles and recipes on her website.
#### Follow Holly on Social Media:
Stay in touch with Holly and explore more of her delightful recipes through her social media profiles:
– [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/spendpennies/)
– [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/ispendwithpennies/)
– [Twitter](http://spendpennies)
– [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/spendpennies/)
Adaptable Creamy Chia Seed Pudding: A Manual for Infinite Options
### Chia Seed Pudding: A Nutritious Breakfast Choice
Ideal for meal prepping, chia seed pudding serves as a healthy and fulfilling way to commence your day. This straightforward recipe mixes chia seeds with milk, yogurt, honey, and your preferred fruits, resulting in a luxuriously creamy indulgence that can be personalized to meet your palate.
#### Why Opt for Chia Seed Pudding?
Chia seeds are small nutritional dynamos, filled with fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. When immersed in liquid, they swell and create a gel-like texture, making them an outstanding foundation for puddings. This recipe is not just simple to prepare but also adaptable, providing a range of flavor combinations and toppings.
#### Flavor Profile
Chia seed pudding presents a cool, creamy, and subtly nutty taste. You can tailor it by incorporating various fruits, flavored yogurts, or mix-ins to craft a distinct taste experience each time.
#### Skill Level
This recipe is accessible for beginners, making it an excellent choice for families. Children can easily assist in the preparation, turning it into an enjoyable activity to share.
#### Meal Prep and Storage
Chia seed pudding is perfect for meal prep since it can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to four days. This adds convenience for hectic mornings.
#### Recommended Tools
It is advisable to invest in mason jars with lids for perfectly portioned servings of pudding. These jars are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing for serving.
### Ingredient Suggestions for Chia Seed Pudding
– **Chia Seeds**: Opt for whole black or white chia seeds for the optimal texture. Ground chia seeds will not yield the same gel-like effect.
– **Milk**: Any variety of milk is suitable, but creamier types like almond milk, whole milk, or oat milk will produce a richer pudding.
– **Yogurt**: Select your favorite flavor, such as strawberry, blueberry, or vanilla. Greek yogurt adds thickness and additional protein.
– **Sweetener**: Honey is a favored option, but substitutes like monk fruit, agave, or maple syrup are also acceptable. Adjust sweetness to your liking.
– **Toppings**: Fresh or frozen fruits, nuts, seeds, coconut, or homemade granola can elevate the pudding. Nut butter or chocolate syrup can be incorporated for a sweeter surprise.
### Variations
– Include a dash of vanilla extract, cocoa powder, or spices like cinnamon for flavor enhancement.
– Blend the chia mixture for a silkier texture.
– Mix in protein powder for an added protein lift.
### How to Prepare Chia Seed Pudding
1. **Combine Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together milk and chia seeds, ensuring there are no clumps.
2. **Mix**: Stir in yogurt and honey, mixing until everything is well integrated.
3. **Chill**: Pour the mixture into four containers and chill for at least eight hours or overnight.
4. **Serve**: Before serving, top with fresh fruit, nuts, or any other desired toppings.
### Storing Excess
Store any remaining chia seed pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Revitalize it by stirring and adding new toppings as you wish.
### Nutritional Details (per serving)
– **Calories**: 245
– **Carbohydrates**: 38g
– **Protein**: 6g
– **Fat**: 9g
– **Fiber**: 10g
– **Sugar**: 24g
### Conclusion
Chia seed pudding is a flexible, nutritious, and easy breakfast solution that can be customized to your taste. With its creamy consistency and limitless customization options, it’s a delightful way to begin your day. Have fun experimenting with various tastes and toppings to discover your ideal combination!
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Fast and Easy Roasted Parmesan Broccoli Recipe for Weeknight Meals
### About the Author: Holly Nilsson
Holly Nilsson is the imaginative mind behind Spend With Pennies, a site focused on delivering simple and comforting recipes that reflect the realities of daily life. With a profound enthusiasm for nostalgic tastes and streamlined cooking methods, Holly enables busy home chefs to whip up delectable meals that are both trustworthy and fulfilling.
Her culinary approach stresses accessibility and practicality, allowing anyone to craft hearty dishes without the anxiety often tied to preparing meals. Holly’s recipes aim to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort, inspired by classic home-cooked dishes that strike a chord with many.
In addition to her contributions to Spend With Pennies, Holly is the author of the book “Everyday Comfort.” This work further highlights her dedication to motivating home cooks with a range of hearty, homemade meals that are both easy to make and enjoyable.
For those keen on discovering more of Holly’s gastronomic creations, additional posts and recipes can be found on her website.
#### Follow Holly on Social Media:
– [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/spendpennies/)
– [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/ispendwithpennies/)
– [Twitter](http://spendpennies)
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