October 11th, 2013 -
Football season is in full swing. Whether you root for the Minnesota Golden Gophers, the Minnesota Vikings, or have another team of choice, it is time to tailgate and cheer that team on.
As the RV dealership Minneapolis relies on for sales parts and accessories, we see a lot of purple and gold this time of year. We also get a lot of requests for tailgate recipes. Here are a couple of unique but easy recipe ideas for your next tailgate party.
Grilled Potato Salad
Everybody like potato salad, but here is a new spin on an old favorite. You will need eight slices of bacon, four medium red potatoes (cubed), one large onion (white cut into one inch slices), potato salad dry rub and dressing.
Heat grill to a medium-high heat, cook the bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Drain bacon on paper towels and reserve the drippings. Crumble bacon up. Add the potatoes and onion along with the dry rub to the drippings in the skillet. Coat and then remove the potato mixture. Next, in a grill wok or grill basket, grill the potato mixture with the grill lid closed for about 30 minutes but stir every five minutes.
When done, put the salad in a big bowl and add the potato salad dressing,toss, add bacon, serve warm and watch the crowd dig in!
Jalapeno Mustard Dipping Sauce
Add a little heat to your next tailgate party with this dipping sauce recipe. You will need ž cups of mayonnaise, two tablespoons of jalapeno pepper jelly, and ź cup of Creole mustard. Just mix all of the ingredients together until well blended. The dipping sauce can be served with chicken bites, jalapeno poppers or any of your favorite dipping food.
Enjoy the games this fall and into the winter. If you are already thinking about RV season next year, or are a year-round RVer who may be getting ready to head south, stop in and see us for the new line-up of 2014’s in stock or for parts and accessories. We are PleasureLand RV and we are the family owned RV dealership Minnesota can count on for great prices and quality products. Enjoy the season and the tailgating ahead!
October 2nd, 2013 -
Photo Courtesy of Apollo RV
As October dawns, the United States is preparing to celebrate “National Get Organized Week” once again. You don’t have to put off your big push for better sorting and storing until the New Year if you’re ready to tackle it now. As you clear off your desk and take steps to reclaim your dining room table, turn your attention to your RV for at least one day of the week. Making these six simple changes inside your recreational vehicle could make next year’s trips easier and more fun.
1. Get creative with hook and loop fabric. Tabs from brands like Velcro can help you keep remotes near your favorite seats, cabinet doors shut, and pet food dishes on the right spot of the floor.
2. Hang up more suspended storage solutions, especially in the kitchen. Two screws through a lid of a glass jar give you an ideal way to store spices or other dry goods without giving up any precious counter top or cabinet space.
3. Keep all of your emergency tools and supplies for the RV in the exterior or undercarriage storage areas. You don’t want to track mud through the interior just to search for that one tire tool you know you brought along.
4. Add shoe organizers everywhere. Two hooks are all you need to create an instant holder for hand tools, cosmetics, shampoos, kitchen utensils, or even shoes!
5. Utilize the back of doors, especially the front door. Keep long cleaning tools like brooms and mops mounted there so you can grab them immediately in case of a spill.
6. Introduce slide out drawers to your tables and any counters without cabinets below them. Just one or two thin drawers give you more space for storing cutlery, cutting boards, and other flat items.
You can also visit PleasureLand RV Center for space-saving devices designed specifically for RVs. There is no need to hunt down mini vacuum cleaners or specialty seat covers if you shop their selection first. If you are really in need of more space when you go on a trip, an upgrade to a larger class of vehicle may also be in order this year.
Photo Source
September 30th, 2013 -
Photo Courtesy of Richelle Antipolo
As the weather changes, so do the sports. Fans of football are already dreaming about tailgating and the new friends they’ll make. However, no trip to see a big game is complete without all of the requisite snacks, half-time munchies, and other foods you need for the celebration.
Traveling to the tailgating spot with your RV fifth wheels in Minneapolis MD gives you a great way to cook your favorite tailgate recipes right there in the parking lot. Try these two simple snacks to keep you full and ready to cheer for your team.
Choose Your Own Kabobs
Chopping up a variety of meats and veggies allows everyone to make their own tasty snack.
Pack of bamboo skewers, soaked in water overnight
1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts<
1 pound of beef, either inexpensive steak or pre-cut cubes
1 pound of pork, loin or thick cut chops
Three large bell peppers, any color
8 oz of whole button mushrooms
2 yellow onions
2 bottles of your favorite barbecue sauce
Chop your ingredients into bite-sized pieces, aiming for evenness among the meats. Keep the veggies a little larger so they don’t burn before the meats are done. Skewer an assortment onto each bamboo stick, then slather with barbecue sauce and cook them over a medium flame on the grill until the meats are done, about 15 to 20 minutes. Turn regularly to prevent burning.
Cold Weather Chili
When the fall and winter breezes are blowing, nothing warms up a tailgating party like chili. This version can be ready to eat in as little as 30 minutes.
1 tablespoon of oil
2 medium onions, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 6 oz can of tomato paste
3 tablespoons of chili powder
1 3 oz can of chipotle chiles
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 pounds chuck ground beef
3 14 oz cans of diced tomatoes in juice
1 can of mild lager beer
2 14 oz cans of kidney beans, rinsed and drained
Heat up the oil in a heavy bottom pot or an enameled Dutch oven. Toss in the garlic and onion, then sprinkle on the salt. Cook the two ingredients until softened. Mix in the tomato paste, chiles, chili powder, and cinnamon. Stir and cook for 3 minutes, then add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink. Introduce the diced tomatoes with all of their juice, the beans, and the beer. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until thickened.
Photo Source
September 25th, 2013 -
Hosting the Superbowl party this year? Tailgating for your favorite team?
One of the best reasons to come to PleasureLand RV dealership of Minnesota is so that you can have a party-room on wheels whether watching the game at home or supporting the team at the stadium.
You don’t want to be caught unprepared, though, so put these tips to work to prep your RV for football season:
Stock Twice What You Think You Need
If there’s one thing you can be sure of, it’s that bowls of chips can spill on the floor, dogs can knock people’s beers over, and you can never expect “just enough” to be just enough. A couple extra bags of chips or an extra case of beer won’t cost you much more, but it will ensure that you have enough to go around come what may this football season.
Empty Your Blackwater
The last thing you want is to have to wait in line at the stadium bathroom because you forgot to take care of this. Prepare for tailgating or a party just as you would prepare for a camping trip.
Run a Checkup
In particular you want to check your shocks. When you’re hosting a party with ten or eleven people, all jumping up and down to cheer the team, you’re going to be glad you did. Now of course you want to be aware of the maximum capacity of your RV and you generally do not want to go over that, but parties can be unpredictable, so be prepared.
With all of this in mind, all that’s left is the bodypaint and the invitations. With proper RV maintenance and plenty of food to go around, your tailgates and football parties this year should be legendary.
September 4th, 2013 -
September is National Courtesy Month! That means different things to different people, of course. Holding open a door, allowing a car into your lane, or holding an elevator door open are simple little things that show what this month is trying to promote.
For someone driving off the lot of PleasureLand RV dealership in Minnesota, it just means taking that natural RVer’s courtesy an extra step. Here are some ideas as you share the road this Courtesy Month:
Form a Welcoming Party
When we stay at RV parks, there’s a good chance that we’re only going to be there for a few days. This can make it hard to form lasting relationships with other RVers, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t bother making friends in the first place. When someone new moves into the park, have a meet and greet, bring them a few drinks, and invite them over.
Share Your Intel
Contribute to the knowledge database that is the worldwide web. In the golden age of the American Hobo, they used to leave signs in coded language to help each other out. The signs might warn others of a mean guard dog, or let them know where a charitable old lady lives who likes to bake pies in exchange for some housework. RVers don’t need the secret language since we have the web to let one another know which towns are RVer friendly and where to get a great steak in Tucson.
Give and Take
Many travelers don’t have the time to stop and do laundry every few days, and, instead, simply buy new thrift store clothes on a regular basis, tossing out the old rags. Well, if this is you, don’t toss them out: rather, donate them. You’re already there, it’s not even out of your way!
Being courteous isn’t just for RVers and it isn’t just for September, it’s for everyone, every day. This month is a good time to reflect on the times we’ve been helpful and welcoming to those around us, and times when we could have been better.
July 5th, 2013 -
One of the greatest experiences when going on an RV trip is to enjoy the majestic scenery and natural wonders of nature across the country. To keep the environment looking so great, RVers know how important it is to go green. From the moment you purchase your RV from your PleasureLand RV Center, you can take the steps to make every RV adventure environmentally-friendly by adopting a green lifestyle.
Switch to LED lights. If you still use incandescent lighting in your RV, it is time to switch over to LED lighting. LED lights use up less electricity as you will drain your battery and generator less.
Install solar panels. Solar energy can allow you to cut back using your generator. If you have the extra money, invest it in solar panels as you’ll have enough energy to operate all of your electronics.
Eat on reusable dinnerware: Cut back on the amount of plastic plates, cups and utensils go into landfills by switching over to reusable dinnerware. China and glass dinnerware can be packed safely in the RV by placing small dishtowels between each item when stacking them together. If you must go with disposable dinnerware, choose paper items over plastic.
Dispose of trash responsibly. Perhaps the easiest way for a camper to adopt green habits is to keep the environment clean. Pick up after yourself and dispose of trash in the proper receptacles at the RV resort. If you are on a primitive camping trip, take the trash with you until you find the best place to dispose of it properly. And remember to recycle your paper, plastic, metal and glass items!
Shop at local produce stands and farmer’s markets. Nothing beats the taste of biting into a fresh piece of fruit or vegetable at a roadside produce stand. This is definitely the green way to go as you can eat healthy, support local farmers, and cut back on buying pre-packaged food that requires you to throw away packaging. You’ll have numerous opportunities to shop at these stands as you’ll also see savings in your wallet at the cheap prices.
Travel with only what you need. It is true that you should pack all the essentials so you are prepared for anything. Yet also keep in mind that the more you pack, the heavier your RV will be as you will burn up more fuel getting to your destination. Travel as light as possible without forgetting the important items. Just remember that not everything is important.
Go green when you are traveling in your RV by adopting environmentally-friendly habits. By taking this advice, you’ll be able to enjoy nature more.
July 1st, 2013 -
When it comes to safe RV excursions, whether locally or for extended trips, PleasureLand’s inventory of well maintained recreational vehicles along with a selection of quality new vehicles make PleasureLand RV Center the “go-to” place for safety and comfort. While it’s important your transportation is serviced and capable of making a trip, it’s equally important to protect your family with their own first aid checklist.
Kit Preparation
You know the needs of your family, so start with vital items for those with mild allergies to insect stings or for those who have issues with pollen from flowering plants, trees and flowers. For anyone who has extreme allergic reactions to stings from bees, wasps or any other biting insect, check with your doctor before leaving so you’ll have enough medicine and needles for the duration of your vacation in case of an emergency. It’s also a good idea to have a new prescription to take along in case you need to refit the kit.
Basic Items
Band-aids are at the top of the list for blisters on heels and toes after a day of hiking or when someone cuts a finger or gets a splinter that needs removing. Bring along an assortment of band-aids in different sizes to fit most any minor situation. Waterproof band-aids are also a good idea for travelers planning water activities.
Add these items to your “must have” list:
- Gauze pads and bandages
- Gauze rolls
- Adhesive tape
- Elastic bandages for sprains
- Clips to hold elastic bandages
- Alcohol prep pads to clean the area
- Cotton balls
- Bottle of alcohol
- Thermometer
- Gloves and hand sanitizer
- Tweezers to remove tiny splinters
- Scissors
- Splints
Along with band-aids and basic items, you’ll also need several useful medications along with a guide on how to administer first aid especially if you haven’t taken a first aid course.
- Antibiotic ointment
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Cold and hot packs
- Eye wash
- Calamine lotion
- Poison oak and poison ivy cream
- Iodine
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Anti diarrheal medication
Pets
Don’t forget to bring an ample supply of your pet’s prescribed medications along with the veterinarian’s name and contact information.
FYI
Keep your personal prescribed medications in a separate, water-proof bag along with over-the-counter medications so everything is in one convenient location. Also, put your doctor’s name, address and emergency contact information in this bag for each person on the trip. Make sure you refill your meds before leaving so you have more than enough in case you encounter any travel bumps along the way.
Make PleasureLand your first stop after putting together your first aid kit and schedule a tune up or service check then ride the highways knowing your family and your RV are a-okay for whatever adventures lie ahead.
May 31st, 2013 -
 Staying well fed and hydrated during a camping trip is always a challenge, but it becomes even more difficult when you bring along children. Food allergies and picky eaters make it hard to find healthy options when on the go. If you are tired of relying on
fast food or canned items during your excursions in a recreational vehicle, try planning your meals and bringing along plenty of supplies for some simple cooking. Eating healthy when traveling is easy when you make the right choices and prepare before you depart.
Write A Plan
Gather everyone together that will be taking the trip and have a meeting about your food options. Request information on allergies and preferences, then try to pick meals that are easy to prepare and which meet the needs of your friends and family. Cut up fruit and instant oatmeal packets are a healthy and painless way to keep everyone fed in the mornings. A boiling kettle of hot water is all you need to produce as much breakfast as needed.
Pre-Cooking Saves Time And Money
When you are tired and ready to rest after a long hike, you don’t want to spend hours waiting for a roast to cook in your RV oven. Bring along pre-cooked and frozen or refrigerated items that are easily heated up in the microwave. A few hours of work in your home kitchen could provide you with tasty meals like lasagna, pancakes, stir fries over rice, and many other options. There’s no need for expensive and unhealthy frozen dinners either when you can create your own custom meals.
Make It Fun
A camping trip is a great time to get your kids involved with the creation of the meals. Try packing a variety of sandwich meats and some tortillas or wrap breads. Let each child assemble their own wrap. There’s no need for disposable plates and cutlery when you stick to simple sandwiches and burritos for your camping meals. Older kids can chop vegetables for a campfire chili or even learn to bake bread in a Dutch oven.
Limit Snacks And Stops
One visit to a fast food restaurant won’t hurt you, but make sure that these establishments don’t end up feeding you for every meal. Sweet and fat-laden snack cakes and high-sodium jerky should also be consumed sparingly. However, a camping trip is a good reason to indulge in a few extra calories because it’s likely you will burn them off hiking and boating. Don’t forget to stop in to PleasureLand RV Center before your next trip to ensure your range and other kitchen appliances are in good shape.
May 24th, 2013 -
PleasureLand is the place to begin your travel planning with a look at what’s available to make your vacation getaway comfortable and convenient. With one of the best RV dealers in Minnesota on your side, you’ll drive away with the perfect ride for all of your adventures.
Benefits of RV traveling are having everything you need along for the ride including your favorite goodies for meals. With quick and simple recipes, creating tasty meals is a piece of cake.
Breakfast
Prepare a variety of fruit such as cantaloupe, honeydew and pineapple and place in containers. Also include blueberries, strawberries and raspberries. Bring bananas, a bag of sliced almonds, raisins, granola cereal and a large container of vanilla yogurt.
- Place the fruit containers and additional garnishes on the table
- Fill dishes with vanilla yogurt
- Add fresh fruit
- Garnish with almonds, raisins and granola
- Note: all of these items are great for snacking throughout the day
Lunch
Tacos equal an easy meal. Ingredients needed include a package of hamburger pre-cooked and frozen for the trip, taco seasoning, taco shells, assorted vegetables, shredded cheese, salsa and sour cream.
- Thaw the hamburger. Add taco seasoning and mix thoroughly
- Let simmer for 10 minutes on low heat then place meat in a serving bowl
- While meat is simmering, shred lettuce, cube or dice 1 or 2 tomatoes, 1 small onion, 1 green pepper and several banana peppersand place in individual dishes
- Arrange taco shells along with prepared veggies, sliced black olives, mild to hot salsa, cheese and sour cream on a table so everyone can dress up their tacos
- Note: Use leftover vegetables in a tossed salad
Save time by preparing and freezing items prior to starting your vacation such as chili, spaghetti sauce, gravy and grilled chicken and steak strips for salads. Also include versatile canned items like chili for hot dogs, beans for dip and whole mushrooms for shish kabobs.
Dinner
You’ll never go wrong with a traditional hot dog roast over a campfire. Keep it simple.
- Thaw the hot dogs
- Cook hot dogs over an open fire or use the grill. Whichever is more convenient
- For garnishes, melt cheese, open a can of chili or use a package of your pre-made chili in the freezer and grill leftover onions from the taco lunch
- Include traditional mustard, ketchup and relish
For dessert, help the kids create smores.
- Place a piece of chocolate on a graham cracker or oatmeal cookie
- Place one large marshmallow on a stick
- Hold the stick over the campfire to brown the marshmallow.
- Place hot marshmallow on top of the chocolate and top with another cracker or cookie
With travel plans in place, stop by PleasureLand for a last minute check up or accessories.
May 8th, 2013 -
Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and there are all kinds of ways to make your mother feel special, and let her know you love her. A phone call or a card and some flowers is a simple way, but why not try something else like a trip in your RV together, or stopping by for your visit. Mom did everything for you when you were growing up, and means the world to you now, so why not plan a vacation for her that would show her just how much you love her.
If your mom lives close by, you might want to try taking a trip together for the day. There are plenty of lakes, rivers, and parks available now that Minnesota is starting to warm up and the two of you could visit them together. And who knows, with all the amenities that your RV has, you might even want to make a week or a weekend of it. It’s probably been a while since your mom had a vacation, and she deserves a few days away from all the hustle and bustle of home.
You can visit any of the hundreds of RV parks, National Parks or State Parks that Minnesota and the neighboring states have to offer. Or, why not take a trip into Canada, which is only a hop, skip and jump away, and add a little international flavor to your trip.
Or why not bring the party to her. Surprise mom with a visit. The best part about traveling in your RV is that she won’t have to worry about putting you up for the night. Whether it’s a few hours drive, or it takes you a few days, you know that you and your family will be comfortable in your RV from PleasureLand RV Center. With a full kitchen, bathroom, and beds, your trip will be comfortable and smooth sailing. There’s always plenty of room for everyone in the family.
No matter whether you decided to visit your mother or take her on a vacation she’ll never forget, the most important thing is time to create a memorable and fun Mother’s Day with the whole family. At Pleasureland RV Center we would be proud to help you find the right, used or new RV. We also offer RV rentals to anyone who wants to take a trip in an RV.
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About Me
Hi, my name is Dan Pearson and I am the Owner of PleasureLand RV Centers based out of St. Cloud, MN. We have three other Minnesota locations to serve all of you RV needs. I look forward to providing you with all your RV information from buying an RV to tips and maintenance. If you would like to contact me, be sure to leave a comment.
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