Pool & Spa Outdoor Blog - News & Tips on Pools, Hot Tubs & Outdoor Design

5 Crowd-Pleasing Super Bowl Party Recipes

Posted on 2/2/2012 4:38 PM By Kimberlee Courtney

Keep fanatic football fans satisfied from kick-off to halftime with these 5 hearty and delicious game-day recipes for wings, ribs, pizza, beef stew and more!

Maple-Mustard Country-Style Spareribs

Ingredients:

6 large country spareribs, about 41⁄2 pounds

3⁄4 cup maple syrup

3⁄4 cup mustard, coarse grained

1⁄3 cup dark brown sugar, plus 1 tablespoon packed

2 teaspoons Tabasco

2 teaspoons soy sauce

Salt and black pepper, coarse ground

Directions:
Mix maple syrup, mustard, brown sugar, hot sauce, and soy sauce. Set glaze aside.

Create indirect fire with foil drip pan half-filled with water. Lay ribs on rack over drip pan and brush with glaze. Cover and cook for 1 hour 15 minutes, turning and basting every 15 minutes.
Move ribs to hot side of grill. Brush with glaze, cover, and grill for 5 minutes. Repeat, turning and basting, until ribs are tender and brown (about 20 minutes).
Season with salt and pepper and serve.

Serves 6

Recipe and photo courtesy of National Pork Board

Grilled Sweet Potato Salad

Ingredients:
2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1⁄2-inch thick rounds

1⁄4 cup plus 3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 1⁄2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, or more to taste

1 1⁄2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh cilantro

1⁄4 cup very thinly shaved red onion

1 1⁄2 tablespoons crumbled Cotija cheese (or other mild crumbly cheese, such as farmer’s cheese)

Directions:
Preheat a grill to medium-high and the oven to 350°F.

Place the sweet potatoes in a bowl, and add the 3 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well. Then place the potatoes on the grill and cook until nice grill marks develop, 2 to 3 minutes on each side.

Transfer the potatoes to a baking sheet, place it in the oven, and bake until they are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool to room temperature.

Arrange the sweet potato slices on a platter, and drizzle the remaining 1⁄4 cup olive oil and the lime juice over them. Sprinkle with the cilantro, red onion, and cheese, and serve.

Serves 4 to 6

Recipe by Emeril Lagasse, from Emeril at the Grill, HarperStudio, New York, 2009, courtesy of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. Photo courtesy of Steven Freeman

Mediterranean Grilled Wisconsin Mozzarella Skewers by Chef James Campbell Caruso

Ingredients:

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons Spanish sherry vinegar

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

2 teaspoons minced garlic

12 fresh mozzarella ciliegine balls (1⁄3 ounce each)

12 seedless red grapes

12 pitted kalamata olives

12 cherry tomatoes

12 large caperberries

6 (8-inch) to 12 (6-inch) skewers

Directions:

In a large bowl, mix the oil, vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, pepper flakes, and garlic. Add the remaining ingredients; toss well to coat. Refrigerate for 2 hours to marinate.

Heat a gas or charcoal grill to medium.

For 8-inch skewers, thread 1 mozzarella ball, 1 grape, 1 olive, 1 tomato, and 1 caperberry on each skewer; repeat so you have two of each item on each skewer. For 6-inch skewers, thread 1 of each item, in the same order.

Grill the skewers on all sides for 5 to 7 minutes or until the cheese is soft and the skewers are thoroughly heated. Serve the skewers as a tapas or side to grilled meat.

Serves 6

Seriously Simple Beef Stew

Total Time: 2 hr 25 min

Prep: 15 min
Servings: 8 servings, 1 cup each

What You Need:

1 boneless beef chuck eye roast (2 lb.), cut into 1-inch chunks

2 cups water

3/4 cup KRAFT Original Barbecue Sauce

1-1/2 lb. baking potatoes (about 3), cut into 1-inch chunks

6 carrots, peeled, cut into 1-inch-thick slices

1 onion, coarsely chopped

1/4 cup A.1. Thick & Hearty Steak Sauce

Make It:

Bring meat, water and barbecue sauce to boil in Dutch oven or deep large skillet; cover. Simmer on medium-low heat 1 hour.
Add vegetables; stir. Cook, covered, 1 hour or until meat and vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
Stir in steak sauce; cook 2 min.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Kraft Foods

Apple Cheddar Pizza with Roasted Pecans

Ingredients:

1 (12 oz. can) refrigerated, ready-made pizza dough

Vegetable oil cooking spray

3 large apples, thinly sliced

1 cup apple juice

1 Tbsp. cornstarch

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

2 Tbsp. honey

1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans

1 cup grated white cheddar cheese

Directions:

Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees. Lightly coat 14-inch pizza pan with cooking spray. Press dough into pizza pan.
Cook apples in apple juice until tender. Drain off juice and reserve. Place apple slices on dough.
Dissolve cornstarch in apple juice, cinnamon, and honey. Cook over medium heat until clear.
Spread sauce over apples. Sprinkle pecans on top. Top with cheese. Bake in a 425 degree oven for 15-20 minutes.

Servings: 8

Recipe and photo courtesy of the U.S. Apple Association

Check out these other Super Bowl-worthy recipes:

Buffalo Hot Wings

These homemade Buffalo “wings” use cut up chicken breast for a meaty and mess-free wing-eating experience. Get the recipe>>>

Grilled Nachos

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to these mouth-watering nachos. Get the recipe>>>

Homemade Baked Tortilla Chips Recipe Homemade Baked Tortilla Chips

Enjoy some guiltless game-day grub. Baked tortilla chips are healthier than regular fried versions and easy to make. Get the recipe>>>

BBQ Chicken Deluxe Pan Pizza Recipe BBQ Chicken Deluxe Pan Pizza

Forget delivery. Wow your guests with this recipe for BBQ Chicken Pizza. It’s topped with chicken, bacon, pineapple, jalapeno slices, and mozzarella cheese for a sweet and spicy flavor that’s sure tickle everyone’s taste buds.Get the recipe>>>

Marquis Launches Round Hot Tub Model

Posted on 1/16/2012 9:59 AM By Debra Maurer

Marquis round model 524 hot tub With the launch of the new 524^TM spa, Marquis’ e-Series Hot Tubs is going retro with a modern spin on the classic round hot tub. But while this tub may have a classic shape, it’s nothing like your father’s hot tub.

“With the 524, we’ve taken the nostalgia that comes with the circular shape and married it with a new look and modern conveniences,” said John Schrenk, Marquis’ President. “It’s the best of both worlds, merging old hot tub tradition with today’s technology and features.”

The 524 comfortably seats five people with its therapy seats in multiple heights. The 24 jets provide plenty of action for all users, plus its footwell jets benefit everyone in the hot tub. In addition to five therapy seats, the 524 also has a cool down seat that doubles as an entry step.

The easy-to-operate controls face the inside of the hot tub for ultimate convenience. The exterior of this new spa measures 76 inches round and 34 inches high. A spin around the surface reveals soft, rounded lines. The 524 has a dazzling waterfall feature and consumers can enhance the mood with the Twilight colored light show.

About Marquis

Marquis, an Oregon-based employee-owned company, has been manufacturing premium portable hot tubs and for over 30 years. The company distributes its products in the U.S., Canada and Europe via its extensive distributor and dealer network. For more information please call (800) 275-0888 or visit www.marquisspas.com.

Guide to Winter Hot Tub & Spa Use

Posted on 1/12/2012 9:43 AM By Kimberlee Courtney

Hot Tub Spa in Winter Many people enjoy using their outdoor hot tub or spa during the cold winter months. There’s nothing like soaking in a warm hot tub as you sip hot cocoa and watch the snow fall around you. If you live in a cold climate, follow these six tips to ensure proper operation and efficiency of your hot tub all winter long.

1. Stock up on Supplies – Make sure you have an extra filter cartridge and enough sanitizer, chemicals, test strips, and other spa supplies to last you through the winter. The weather can be unpredictable and you don’t want to take the chance of having to go out and purchase these items when the roads are icy or unmanaged.

2. Protect Your Pipes – One of the major risks of operating a hot tub in the winter is that water can freeze in the pipes. Check that your spa’s freeze protection system is activated, which will help maintain a constant water temperature even when you’re not using the spa. If your hot tub doesn’t have freeze protection, set your timer switch to cycle on for 15 – 20 minutes every hour to keep warm water circulating through the pipes.

3. Keep it Covered – A good insulated cover is essential for reducing the energy requirements of your hot tub during the winter. It is also recommended to use an inexpensive thermal blanket under your regular hot tub cover to help keep the heat in, reduce chemical use, and decrease moisture build-up on the cover. Be sure to spray the vinyl cover with a quality protectant to safeguard against harsh weather conditions and also remove snow before it accumulates on the cover.

4. Watch the Water Level – Check your hot tub’s water level regularly, especially if you do not use your spa every day. If the water in your spa gets too low, the pumps and heater may stop working which will cause the water to freeze.

5. Maintain the Water Temperature –The colder it gets, the longer it takes for your spa to heat up. It is less expensive and more efficient to maintain the water temperature of your hot tub on a daily basis than it is to let it get extremely cold and then reheat it when you want to use the spa. It also keeps water from freezing in the pipes and reduces chemical use.

6. Turn off Air Jets – Running the air jets in the winter uses a great amount of energy because they inject cold air into the spa water. If you do use your jets, make sure you turn them off after every use.

New AquaChek 6-in-1 Test Strip for Hot Tubs & Spas

Posted on 1/5/2012 9:30 AM By Debra Maurer

AquaChek 6-in-1 Spa Test Strip Hach Company/ETS, the manufacturer of AquaChek® Pool & Spa Test Strips, is pleased to announce the introduction of AquaChek Spa, a 6-in-1 test strip developed specifically for testing in the hot tub environment. AquaChek Spa provides spa/hot tub owners an efficient and comprehensive means of testing the water.

The new 15-second, dip and read AquaChek Spa test strip includes tests for six chemistries: Total Chlorine, Total Bromine, Free Chlorine, Total Alkalinity, pH, and Total Hardness.

Spas and hot tubs present unique challenges to manage healthy, balanced water. The higher temperatures and lower water volume can cause faster chemical reactions and increased evaporation rates. Maintaining ideal levels of active and total sanitizer (Bromine or Chlorine), pH, Total Alkalinity, and Hardness will help ensure that the water is clean and healthy. In addition, it will protect the spa/hot tub against damage from fluctuations in pH, and a build-up of scale formation.

“Owners should test their water before and after each use, and treat the water regularly,” advises Joe Sweazy, Technical Sales and Service Manager for AquaChek. “We recommend tracking results each time the water is tested,” he adds.

AquaChek Spa 6-in-1 test strips are fast, accurate, and easy to use. Simply dip the test strip into the spa/hot tub, compare using the color chart comparator on the bottle, and adjust chemical levels that are not within the acceptable range by following chemical manufacturer’s recommendations. Each bottle includes 50 test strips with instructions in English, French, Spanish, and German.

For more info, visit www.AquaChek.com or call 888-278-2243.

Top 10 Outdoor Living Trends

Posted on 12/30/2011 9:36 AM By Kimberlee Courtney

Every year the American Society of Landscape Architects surveys residential landscape professionals to rank the relative popularity of a wide variety of design features to be included in outdoor living spaces. This year, lighting, firepits, and areas for sitting and dining were expected to be the most sought-after enhancements for outdoor spaces.

Check out the list below to find out what else topped the list for 2011, and get ideas for your backyard for 2012.

Lighting (96.2%)
Kichler Outdoor Landscape Lighting

Outdoor lighting (rated as popular for 2011 by 96.2% of the respondents) allows you to enjoy your backyard both day and night and creates an inviting atmosphere.

Landscape lights along pathways and walkways make it easy for you and your guest to reach sitting areas safely.

Outdoor lighting fixtures provide ambiance and adequate lighting for entertaining on your patio or deck at night.

Photo courtesy of Kichler Lighting

Fire pits/Fireplaces (94.2%)

Outdoor firepits and fireplaces create the perfect nighttime gathering spot to relax, eat and drink, and share stories. They also let you enjoy your outdoor living space throughout fall and early winter.

Portable firepits come in a range of styles and materials, including wrought-iron, stainless steel, and copper to match any backyard.

Built-in firepits and fireplaces can be finished in stone or brick and add a custom look to your outdoor space.

Photo courtesy of Brookstone

Seating/Dining Areas (94.1%)

Pride Family Brands Electra Cushioned Outdoor Dining Set

Having various places for people to sit and socialize extends your living space to the outdoors.

Outdoor dining options range from small Bistro sets for two people to large patio dining tables that seat up to 12.

A simple wooden bench offers the perfect place to catch up with an old friend.

Cushioned chairs and a few side tables encourage group conversation.

Photo courtesy of Pride Family Brands

Grills (93.8%)

The grill is a backyard staple. There’s nothing like a summer barbecue with family and friends.

From freestanding carts to complete grilling islands, there’s a grill to fit every lifestyle and budget.

Fuel options include propane, natural gas, electric, and charcoal.

2011 Weber-Stephen Products LLC. Used with Permission.

Installed seating (89.5%)

You can never have enough places to sit when entertaining outdoors.

Incorporating retaining walls, ledges, benches, and steps in your backyard design adds both style and function.

Photo courtesy of Master Pools Builder: Gib-San Pools, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Weatherized Outdoor Furniture (83.6%)

The latest outdoor furniture designs bring the comfort of your indoor living room to your backyard patio.

Durable materials, including wood, wicker, aluminum, wrought-iron, and plastic, ensure your outdoor furniture lasts for years.

Weatherproof fabrics add color and comfort.

Photo courtesy of Palm Springs Rattan & Garden Classics.
Photography by Chris Baber.

Space for Cooking & Entertaining

Just like your indoor kitchen, having ample counter space (74.2%) and utility storage (61.3%) makes entertaining so much easier.

Stow cooking gear in cabinets and add a few bar stools around a counter top so that you can prep food and spend time with your guests.

2011 Weber-Stephen Products LLC.
Used with Permission.

Outdoor Entertainment

With an outdoor stereo system (58.3%), wireless internet connection (46.35), and weatherproof TV (45.4%), no one will be thinking of going back indoors.

Photo courtesy of SunBriteTV.

Kitchen Conveniences

Photo courtesy of Cimarron Circle Construction Co.; Outdoor Kitchen Designed by Prideux Design; Photography by Balfour Walker

Having everything, including the kitchen sink (54.7%), eliminates the hassle of running in and out of the house.

Plus, an outdoor refrigerator (50.2%) not only keeps drinks cold but ensures proper handling of food.

Aquatech, a National Society of Pool-Building & Retailing Professionals;
Photo courtesy of Cimarron Circle Construction Co.; Designed by Prideux Design; Photography by Balfour Walker.

Outdoor Heaters (44.4%)

Outdoor heaters keep your patio or deck warm and toasty long after the summer has ended.

Table top heaters take up minimal space and can be moved from one area to another. Freestanding units provide heat to large areas.

Photo courtesy of Foegley Landscape, Inc.

To see the full list of 2011 survey results, view ASLA's Outdoor Living Trends for 2011.

What outdoor living features are you looking to add to your backyard in 2012? Leave a comment below.

Watkins Manufacturing Acquires American Hydrotherapy Systems

Posted on 12/20/2011 10:29 AM By Debra Maurer

Watkins Manufacturing, a leading maker of hot tubs worldwide, announces the acquisition of the assets of American Hydrotherapy Systems (AHS), manufacturer of Freeflow Spas® and a leader in the rotationally molded spa and business category. With the purchase of Ontario, California-based AHS, Watkins adds roto-molded Freeflow Spas to its portfolio of premium Watkins spa brands, which include Caldera® Spas and Hot Spring® Spas.

“The addition of Freeflow Spas to our family of quality hot tub brands fits perfectly with our consumer strategy to deliver the right products to the right markets at the right prices,” says Steve Hammock, President of Watkins Manufacturing. “We want our Watkins-brand retailers, whenever possible, to be a one-stop-shop in fulfilling the hot water relaxation needs of today’s discriminating consumer. Integrating this quality selection of Freeflow Spas products into our retail offering will allow shoppers to get the hot tub they want from us, whether they choose an entry level model or the most premium spa.”

“Our business was not ‘overtly for sale’ but Watkins presented us with an interesting opportunity we simply had to consider,” explains Bob Gawlik, general manager, American Hydrotherapy Systems. “Over the years, many other companies have approached us. But Watkins, an icon in our industry, was the first suitor that we believed would perpetuate what we have worked so hard to build in a manner we think will honor the company’s values.”

“Over the years, we’ve been very impressed with the product offering developed by, and the integrity of, the AHS team,” says Hammock. Over the next several quarters, the AHS business will transition to Watkins worldwide headquarters in Vista, California. “Watkins celebrated the manufacture of our one-millionth hot tub in September 2011, and together with this strategic acquisition of AHS we believe we are positioned for continued growth in the future,” adds Hammock.

About Watkins Manufacturing Corporation

Watkins Manufacturing was established in 1977, in Vista, California. The company is a leading manufacturer of hot tubs worldwide, including Hot Spring® Spas, Limelight® Hot Tubs, Hot Spot® Spas and Caldera® Spas. The Watkins Dealer network extends into all 50 states and over 60 countries. Watkins is a division of Masco Corporation, a Fortune 500 company whose products include Delta® Faucets, KraftMaid® Cabinets, and Behr® paint.

Holiday Gift Ideas for Pool, Spa & Backyard Lovers

Posted on 12/14/2011 9:30 AM By Kimberlee Courtney

Wave Hammock by Outback Chair Company

The holidays are right around the corner and if you’re like most people, you probably have a few friends or family members left to buy presents for. To help ease the stress of last-minute holiday shopping, we’ve put together this holiday gift guide full of great gift ideas for the pool, spa, and backyard lover on your list.

Photo courtesy of Outback Company

Gifts for Hot Tub Lovers

Spazazz RX Therapy Spa Scents

Spa Fragrances – Enhance their hot tub experience with an aromatherapy gift basket filled with an assortment of liquid or crystal spa fragrances such as calming Lavender, refreshing Eucalyptus, and soothing Chamomile.

Photo courtesy of Spazazz Global LLC

Brookstone Towel Warmer

Towel Warmer – Any hot tub user will be thankful for the cozy embrace of a warm towel when stepping out of the hot tub on chilly nights or during the winter months. They can also use it to heat mittens, hats, and blankets.

Photo courtesy of Brookstone

Gifts for Pool Lovers

Aquatic Fitness Equipment – A pair of water dumbbells lets fitness fanatics get a great workout right in their pool.

Photo courtesy of AquaJogger®

Audio Unlimited Pool Pod by Cables Unlimited

Floating Pool Speakers – Swimmers will have a rockin’ good time listening to their favorite tunes while lounging in the pool or relaxing in a hot tub. These waterproof wireless speakers use a base station to transmit tunes from an iPod, iPhone, MP3 player, or other audio source right to the pool.

Photo courtesy of Audio Unlimited by Cables Unlimited.
Photography by Brian Esterlin.

Pool Party Gift Basket – Beach towels, sunblock, flip-flops, and pool floats—a pool owner can never have enough of these items on hand when entertaining family and friends. Put together a gift basket filled with these items, plus a few bottles of shampoo and conditioner, a beach ball, and a gift card for the local pizza or sub shop for a thoughtful gift they’ll surely appreciate.

Gifts for Backyard Lovers

Hatteras All-Weather Wicker Roman Arch Hammock

Hammock – This present is sure to please. According to The Journal of The American Medical Association, woven cotton and nylon hammocks provide excellent back support and are an excellent tool for relieving stress. (You may want to keep this one for yourself!)

Photo courtesy of Hatteras Hammocks/The Hammock Source

Lexington Firepit from Brookstone

Firepit - An outdoor firepit is an excellent purchase for outdoor entertainers. It gives them a great spot to relax and gather with family and friends and can also extend their outdoor living season.

Photo courtesy of Brookstone

Vienna Wind Chime by Gooserocksdesigns.com

Wind Chimes – With a range of musical tones and eye-catching designs to choose from, you’ll be sure to find the perfect wind chime for that special someone on your holiday gift list. You can even get them engraved for a truly unique and personalized gift.

Photo courtesy of gooserocksdesigns.com.
Photo by Heath Paley.

Outdoor Holiday & Winter Decor Ideas

Posted on 12/7/2011 4:09 PM By Kimberlee Courtney

Deborah Silver & Co.

Take your backyard winter landscape from drab to fab by adding festive touches that celebrate the winter holiday season.

We’ve put together some easy and creative ideas for decorating your backyard with seasonal flair—after all, you can still enjoy the view of your backyard in the winter.

Photo courtesy of Deborah Silver & Co.|Detroit Garden Works

Trim Trees and Shrubs

Deborah Silver & Co.

String white or colored lights around trees and shrubs to add a bit of glitz and glamour or create a warm glow by placing white, green, red, or winter blue spotlights under bushes.

Add Old-World charm by hanging battery- or solar-powered lanterns on tree branches at varying heights.

Decorate trees with plastic/outdoor ornaments or place holiday-hued gazing globes at the foot of trees for color and sparkle.

Tie bows of red ribbon around tree trunks and branches or wrap ribbon around box-shaped bushes to make them look like presents.

Attract birds by creating bird seed ornaments:

1. Gather pine cones that are fairly open and tie a string or thin ribbon around the base of each pine cone.

2. Spread peanut butter inside the pine cones and around the edges.

3. Roll pine cone around on a plate of birdseed until the peanut butter is covered with seeds.

4. Use the string to the attach the pine cones to tree branches.

Photo courtesy of Deborah Silver & Co.|Detroit Garden Works

Deck the Patio & Fence
Foegley Landscape, Inc.

Drape garland made out of hardy evergreens like cedar, cypress, and euonymus over patio doors and deck/fence posts. Add berries, pine cones, and twigs for texture and color.

Outline the perimeter of your patio or fence with festive pathway markers such as snowflakes, candy canes, stars, or giant Christmas bulbs.

Photo courtesy of Foegley Landscape, Inc.

Make outdoor furniture part of your display by arranging string lights or garland over the backs of chairs and down the center of the table.

Brighten a barren patio with colorful winter containers. Use boughs of evergreens (such as red or yellowtwig dogwood, pine, and fir), poinsettias, winterberry holly, reindeer moss, fruit, hydrangea blooms, and dried eucalyptus. And of course don’t forget to add twinkle lights!

Photo courtesy of Deborah Silver & Co.|Detroit Garden Works

Adorn Outdoor Structures

Wrap the poles and beams of an arbor, pergola, or gazebo with twinkling lights to create a dazzling winter wonderland once the snow arrives.

Hang glittery snowflake decorations (sold at craft stores) or large Christmas balls from pergola beams or gazebo railings at varying lengths for interest and ambiance.

Add holiday spirit to an outdoor shed or pool house by hanging a wreath or swag on the door, filling window boxes with boughs of evergreens, pinecones, and berries, and adding lights to the roof. You can even add a wooden sign by the door that says “Santa’s Workshop.”

Turn your gazebo into a gift-giving showpiece by placing a decorated Christmas tree in the center.

Bring the indoors out by placing a wreath above an outdoor fireplace or hanging stockings made of outdoor fabric from the mantel.

Photo courtesy of Foegley Landscape, Inc.

Dress Up Fountains, Planters & Birdbaths

Add color to empty garden containers and fountains with poinsettias, evergreen boughs, pine cones, and winterberry twigs.

Use empty planters to display decorative present stacks: Wrap a small, medium, and large plastic container (filled with a few rocks for weight) in holiday foil gift wrap, stack the boxes in size order with the large box on the bottom, and then tie them together with ribbon.

Arrange glowing globes, jewel-toned gazing globes, or lighted grapevine balls (all available at home improvement stores and garden centers) in urns, tiered fountains, or birdbaths for a shimmering spectacle.

Photo courtesy of Deborah Silver & Co.|Detroit Garden Works

4 Decadent Pumpkin Dessert Recipes FQHVXG3HX9QX

Posted on 11/21/2011 8:30 AM By Kimberlee Courtney

If you want to spice up your desserts this holiday season, go beyond traditional pies. Instead, treat your family and Thanksgiving guests to one of these delectable—and equally delicious—pumpkin dessert recipes. From cheesecake to cake to muffins, enjoy the comforting flavors of creamy pumpkin and warm spices in a new way.

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Prep: 25 min

Cooking: 55 min
Servings: 16 servings

CRUST

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted

1/4 cup granulated sugar

CHEESECAKE

3 packages (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup packed light brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

2/3 cup (5 fl.-oz can) NESTLÉ® CARNATION® Evaporated Milk

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

TOPPING

1 container (16 oz.) sour cream, at room temperature

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

PREHEAT oven to 350° F.

FOR CRUST:

COMBINE graham cracker crumbs, butter and granulated sugar in medium bowl. Press onto bottom and 1 inch up side of 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes (do not allow to brown). Cool on wire rack for 10 minutes.

FOR CHEESECAKE:

BEAT cream cheese, granulated sugar and brown sugar in large mixer bowl until fluffy. Beat in eggs, pumpkin and evaporated milk. Add cornstarch, cinnamon and nutmeg; beat well. Pour into crust.

BAKE for 55 to 60 minutes or until edge is set but center still moves slightly.

FOR TOPPING:

COMBINE sour cream, granulated sugar and vanilla extract in small bowl; mix well. Spread over surface of warm cheesecake. Bake for 5 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Remove side of springform pan.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Nestlé USA. All noted trademarks are owned by Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., Vevey, Switzerland

Pumpkin Carrot Cake

Cooking: 35 min
Servings: 12 servings

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup milk

1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

3 large eggs

1 1/4 cups LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 can (8 oz.) crushed pineapple, drained

1 cup (about 3 medium) carrots, grated

1 cup coconut, flaked

1 1/4 cups nuts, chopped, divided

Cream Cheese Frosting (recipe follows)

PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease two 9-inch-round cake pans.

COMBINE flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in small bowl. Combine milk and lemon juice in liquid measuring cup (mixture will appear curdled).

BEAT eggs, pumpkin, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, pineapple, carrots and milk mixture in large mixer bowl; mix well. Gradually add flour mixture; beat until combined. Stir in coconut and 1 cup nuts. Pour into prepared cake pans.

BAKE for 30 to 35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 15 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool completely.

FROST between layers, on sides and top of cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Garnish with remaining nuts. Store in refrigerator.

FOR CREAM CHEESE FROSTING:

COMBINE sour cream, granulated sugar and vanilla extract in small bowl; mix well. Spread over surface of warm cheesecake. Bake for 5 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Remove side of springform pan.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Nestlé USA. All noted trademarks are owned by Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., Vevey, Switzerland

”3 for 100” Mini Pumpkin Muffins

Prep: 10 min
Cooking: 15 min
Servings: 20 servings, 3 muffins each

1 cup whole-wheat or all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup packed light brown sugar

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

2 large eggs, slightly beaten

1 cup lowfat granola cereal, crumbled

PREHEAT oven to 350º F. Paper-line or grease mini-muffin pans.

COMBINE flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder and salt in small bowl. Beat sugar and oil in medium mixer bowl until blended. Add pumpkin and eggs; beat well. Gradually stir in flour mixture. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups, filling 2/3 full. Sprinkle each with about a 1/2 teaspoon of crumbled granola. Press granola lightly into batter.

BAKE for 15 to 20 minutes or until wooden pick inserted into centers comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Store muffins in covered containers or resealable plastic bags..

Recipe and photo courtesy of Nestlé USA. All noted trademarks are owned by Société des Produits Nestlé S.A., Vevey, Switzerland

Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting

Total time: 1 hr 50 min
Prep: 20 min
Servings: 16 servings

1 pkg. (2-layer size) spice cake mix

1 cup water

1 cup canned pumpkin

1/3 cup oil

3 eggs

3/4 cup chopped PLANTERS Walnuts

1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Neufchatel Cheese, softened

1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar

1 cup thawed COOL WHIP LITE Whipped Topping

HEAT oven to 350ºF.

BEAT first 5 ingredients in large bowl with mixer 2 min. or until well blended. Stir in nuts. Pour into 13x9-inch pan sprayed with cooking spray.

BAKE 30 to 32 min. or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely.

BEAT Neufchatel and sugar in small bowl with mixer until well blended. Add COOL WHIP; mix well. Spread over cake.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Kraft Foods

Pleatco Crowns the 2011 Perfect Pool Guy and Gal

Posted on 11/17/2011 8:30 AM By Debra Maurer

Pleatco Perfect Pool Guy/Gal 2011 Pleatco, LLC, a leading manufacturer of pool and spa filter cartridges, announced the winners of the 4^th Annual Pleatco Perfect Pool Guy/Gal contest at the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo (IPSPE) in Vegas on Nov. 2, 2011.

The contest is an innovative way to honor the hardworking men and women of the pool service industry. With over 200 contestants, this year’s entrants were as impressive as ever. This year’s Perfect Pool Guy and Gal winners are Gil Serrano of Bay Area Pool Service in Florida, and Jennifer Angevine of Gold Coast Swimming Pools in New York.

"From all of us here at Pleatco, thank you to everyone who entered, nominated, and voted," said Howard Smith, Pleatco's CEO. "We have been truly overwhelmed by the quality of the hundreds of nominated entrants and the thousands of votes cast. The entries were extremely powerful and heartfelt across the board."

“Over the four years that Pleatco has sponsored this contest, we’ve learned that being a professional pool or spa service technician is more than a job—it’s a passion. Many homeowners treat their service guy or gal like family; it’s a special relationship," said Pleatco’s COO, John Antretter. "A pool or spa is an integral part of a home—a way to relax and a place for a family to share time together. Homeowners trust their service professional to keep their backyard oasis safe.”

In addition to a trip to the IPSPE, both winners received a $5,000 continuing education scholarship from Genesis Three Design Group to attend the G3 Certified Pool Operator Program. Serrano and Angevine will also star in Pleatco's nationwide follow-up ad campaign.

Gil Serrano has become the go-to “service master” over the past 14 years and now trains and re-trains pool service technicians in industry best practices. Humble through the entire competition, Serrano was shocked to learn how many people supported and rallied for him through voting and calling as references during the Perfect Pool Guy Contest. His long-time local title as “the pool whisperer” is also well-earned. Regarding the pool and spa industry, Serrano says he is “full of excitement to be part of this industry… It is all about the heart you put into it.”

Jennifer Angevine has owned Gold Coast Swimming Pools for nearly 10 years and has been in the industry since she was old enough to accompany her father on service calls. Every member of the Gold Coast team expressed great pride in working for Angevine and could not brag enough about their boss who goes above and beyond for clients and her team every day of the year. In regards to winning the 2011 Perfect Pool Gal title, Angevine “couldn’t be more proud to be a part of the contest and to hold the title of the year.” She gracefully acknowledges that she wouldn’t be where she is today without the encouragement and enthusiasm from her team and the true support of her father.

Special Awards

With so many worthy entrants, Pleatco once again expanded the contest and created additional awards. "During our final interviews, we were impressed with the caliber of so many individuals that we felt it was proper to recognize the outstanding achievements of several other entrants,” says Antretter. "In that spirit, we selected contestants for six other Special Awards based on their contribution towards their community and the pool and spa industry."

2011 Industry Achievement Awards to Jim DeBerry of Aqua Pool Dealer in Florida and Annie Abbate of Chem-Tech Pool Cleaning in Arizona
2011 Big Heart Award to Bob Charlton of The Pool Guy in Florida
2011 Future Leadership Awards to Chris Hamm of Crystal Clear Pools in Florida
2011 Most Creative Entry Award to Jonathan Santoscoy of True Blue Pool Service in Texas and Larry Sniezek of Burnett Pools and Spas in Pennsylvania
2011 Customer Service Award to Lesley Leal of Optimus, LLC in Tennessee
2011 Biggest Pool Personality Award to Paul Beauparlant of Paul and Sons Pool Service, LLC in Nevada

14 other finalists were also named:

Adam Shulte of Watson’s Cincinnati in Ohio, Cameron Dillon of Tri-County Pool and Spa in Florida
Bob Hickle or Nierman Brothers Pool and Spa in Indiana
Andrew Meece of Amerimerc in Kansas
Michael Berggren of Berggren Pool and Spa Services, LLC in Washington
Geoffrey Dillon of Pools and Spas a Go-Go
Bob Malsack of Hansens Pools and Spas in Wisconsin
Jason Blake of B&S Pools in Arizona
Anne Bostwick of Gulf Coast Pool & Spa in Florida
Jim Eiler of Aqua Pools in Illinois
David Bristow of David Bristow’s Pool Service in North Carolina
Beau Braisher of Beau Braisher’s Pool Service in California
Kyle Conlon of Cypress Pools in New York
Ryan Landriault of In Hot Water Spas in Alberta, Canada

About Pleatco

Pleatco, based in Glen Cove, N.Y., has served the pool & spa community for the past 40 years and continues to be a leader in the industry through innovation and the desire for constant improvement.

Photos courtesy of Pleatco, LLC