I am inventing again. I have an invitation to a 'bring a dish' after event dinner-picnic out in the country on Sunday. It is after out Art Guild fundraiser event at noon that day. The dinner gathering is around five p.m.


AZTEC SCALLOPED CORN BAKE (So-named because I detest naming a dish "Southwest" just because it has chilies in it.)


INGREDIENTS (makes enough for a larger casserole dish or pan)

3 eggs, beaten
2 cans creamed corn
1 can corn (not creamed)
1/2 cup crushed saltine crackers
1/2 cup dry stuffing crumbs (don't use the herb or flavoring packet)
1/2 cup corn meal (or Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix)
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped or diced.
1 jalapeno chili pepper, small (cleaned of seeds, diced small)
1 teaspoon Cajun spice powder
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 cup grated or shredded white cheese (Asiago, Parmesano, etc.)
Cracked black pepper (about enough to taste it)


PROCEDURE

Mix corn, crackers, corn meal and stuffing crumbs, stir-in pepper, chilies and spices.

Fold-in cheese.

Place in baking dish and bake covered @350F for about 35 minutes. Uncover and continue baking for another ten minutes.

Mangia!