logo
Currently Browsing: Recipe

Recipe of the Week: Crunchy Bran French Toast

logo

Recipe courtesy Melissa d’Arabian for Food Network Magazine

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 8 slices whole-grain bread
  • 4 tablespoons light cream cheese
  • 4 teaspoons low-sugar orange marmalade
  • 2 large eggs plus 2 egg whites
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups bran flakes cereal
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar (optional)

Directions

Spread 4 bread slices with 1 tablespoon cream cheese each; spread the other 4 slices with 1 teaspoon marmalade each. Combine to make 4 sandwiches.

Whisk the whole eggs, egg whites, orange zest and juice, and vanilla in a shallow bowl. Place the bran flakes in a resealable plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin or your hands. Pour the crumbs onto a plate. Dip both sides of each sandwich in the egg mixture, then in the crumbs, gently pressing the crumbs onto the bread.

Heat 1 tablespoon each oil and butter in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the sandwiches in batches and cook until the outsides are golden and the insides are melted, 3 to 4 minutes per side. (Add more oil and butter, if needed.)

Slice the French toast sandwiches into triangles. Let cool before serving to little ones, as the cream cheese can get quite hot. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar, if desired, and the kids won’t even ask for syrup!

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Caramelized Onion, Mushroom and Gruyere Quiche with Oat Crust

logo

Recipe courtesy Ellie Krieger

Serves: 6

Ingredients

For the crust:

  • Cooking spray
  • 3/4 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 3 tablespoons cold, lowfat buttermilk

For the filling:

  • 4 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced thinly into half moons
  • 8 ounces sliced mixed mushrooms, such as cremini, oyster, shiitake
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dry)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3 egg whites
  • 1 cup evaporated fat-free milk (not condensed milk)
  • 2/3 cup grated Gruyere cheese (about 1-ounce)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray.

To prepare the crust, put the oats, flour and salt in the bowl of a food processor and pulse 3 times to combine. Add the butter and pulse about 12 times, until you get a pebbly course texture. Add the buttermilk and pulse 3 to 5 times more to combine. Form the mixture into a ball and place it between 2 large pieces of waxed paper. Roll out into a circle about 10 inches in diameter.

Remove the top sheet of waxed paper. Transfer the crust, still on the other piece of waxed paper to the pie dish, then remove the waxed paper from the top. Press the crust gently into the dish. Bake for 9 minutes, then let cool.

To prepare the filling, heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large nonstick pan over a medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 20 minutes. Transfer the onions to a bowl. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons of oil to the pan and heat over a medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they have released their water and begin to brown, about 6 minutes. Add the onions back to the pan, stir in the salt, pepper, mustard and thyme.

In a medium bowl whisk together the eggs, egg whites and evaporated milk.

Sprinkle the cheese into the pie crust. Top with the mushroom-onion mixture and pour the egg mixture on top. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F. Bake for 35 minutes or until knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting into 6 wedges and serving.

Nutritional analysis per serving (Serving size: 1 wedge)

Calories 270; Total Fat 14 g; (Sat Fat 6 g, Mono Fat 5 g, Poly Fat 1 g) ; Protein 14 g; Carb 24 g; Fiber 2 g; Cholesterol 125 mg; Sodium 430 mg

Excellent source of: Protein, Riboflavin, Phosphorus, Selenium

Good source of: Vitamin A, Niacin, Vitamin D, Pantothenic Acid, Calcium, Iodine, Iron, Potassium

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Green Herb Hummus

logo

Recipe courtesy Dana Angelo White

Ingredients

  • 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
  • 6 fresh basil leaves
  • 1 medium scallion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Options for dipping: carrot sticks, sliced cucumber and whole-wheat pita chips

Directions

Place ingredients in a food processor fitted with a steel blade and pulse until smooth.

Serve with dippers.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Pip’s Moroccan Lamb and Couscous Soup

logo

From Pip’s column in Triathlete magazine

Warming, comforting and filling food doesn’t have to be heavy. Moroccan lamb and couscous soup is a favorite in my family. It is a satisfying dinner that is hearty, healthy and delicious. It’s simple to make and takes very little preparation time. It is also great for freezing or for taking in a thermos to work. And it is open to interpretation—substitute your favorite or readily available vegetables, and while I wouldn’t make it with anything other than lamb (yep, I am an Aussie!) you could try using cubed beef. This will make a big pot, at least 10 generous servings, so invite some friends or freeze some for another day.

Moroccan Lamb and Couscous Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil

2.2 pounds (1 kg) cubed lamb

2 Spanish onions, chopped

4 cloves garlic, crushed

2 tablespoons ground coriander

2 tablespoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder (to taste—add more of less if you want)

2 teaspoons sweet paprika

28 ounces (800g) crushed or chopped tomatoes

2 medium-sized carrots, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 sweet potato, chopped into bite-sized pieces (or pumpkin)

1 cup green peas or broccoli florets

2 15-ounce (440g) cans of chickpeas

34 ounces (1L) chicken stock

3.5 ounces (100g) couscous

1 bunch continental parsley, chopped

1 bunch mint, chopped

juice of 2 lemons

yogurt to serve

Directions

In a large pot, heat the oil and sauté the onions until soft. Add the garlic and spices and cook a few minutes until fragrant. Add the lamb and stir though onion mixture, and then add tomatoes and stock. Bring to a simmer, cover with a lid and let it cook gently for about an hour. Add the veggies and—if it is needed—a cup or so of water (so everything is covered) and continue to cook gently for about 45 minutes. Add the chickpeas and stir through to heat. Add the couscous and peas and let sit for 5 minutes until both are tender and warmed through. Stir through the herbs and serve with a dollop of the yogurt.

This soup makes a fantastic meal by itself—high in protein and carbohydrates as well as nourishing vitamins but is also great served with some accompanying pita or flat bread, warmed through in the oven.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Bacon Jack and Jalapeno Quesadillas

logo

From Food Network Kitchens

Serves: 4

Ingredients

Guacamole:

  • 1 ripe Hass avocado, halved, seeded and peeled
  • 1 small tomato, diced
  • 2 scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro leaves
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt, to taste

Quesadillas:

  • 4 strips turkey bacon (about 3 ounces)
  • 6 scallions,(white and green parts) thinly sliced
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 3 (8-inch) multi-grain tortillas
  • 3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream, optional
  • Cilantro, for garnish

Directions

Click here to see how it’s made.

Guacamole: Coarsely mash the avocado in a large bowl. Add the tomato, scallions, lime juice, cilantro, jalapeno, and garlic until blended. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray.

Lightly spray a medium nonstick skillet with cooking spray and set over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook, turning occasionally, until browned, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain. Crumble and set aside.

To the same skillet, add the scallions, jalapeno, garlic, cumin, and coriander. Cook, stirring often, over medium heat, until the scallions are soft, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat.

Place the tortillas on the baking sheet; sprinkle 1/3 of the cheese, 1/3 of the scallion mixture, and 1/3 of the bacon over half of each tortilla. Fold the unfilled half of each tortilla over the filling. Lightly spray the quesadillas with cooking spray. Bake until lightly browned and crisp, 8 to 10 minutes.

Cut each quesadilla into 4 wedges and serve with the guacamole and sour cream, if using. Garnish with cilantro.

Copyright 2009 Television Food Network, G.P. All rights reserved

Nutritional analysis per serving: 3 wedges with 1/4 cup guacamole and 1 tablespoon sour cream

Calories 320; Total Fat 18 g; (Sat Fat 6 g, Mono Fat 6 g, Poly Fat 2 g) ; Protein 18 g; Carb 26 g; Fiber 7 g; Cholesterol 32 mg; Sodium 630 mg

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Chicken and Biscuit Pot Pie

logo

Recipe courtesy Ellie Krieger

Serves: 6

Ingredients

For the filling:

  • Cooking spray
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
  • 4 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1/2 pound green beans, trimmed and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups lowfat milk
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup peas, thawed if frozen
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

For the biscuit crust:

  • 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1/2 cup lowfat buttermilk

Directions

To make the filling: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a large shallow casserole dish, or 6 individual casserole dishes with cooking spray.

Season the chicken with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of the oil over a medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer the chicken with its juices to a bowl. .

Add 2 more teaspoons of oil to the same pan and heat it over a medium-high heat. Add the onions, carrots and celery and cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the green beans, garlic and remaining salt and pepper and cook for 2 minute more. Add the milk. Stir the flour into the broth until it is completely dissolved and add to the pan. Cook, stirring, until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 minutes more. Return the chicken with its juices back to the pan. Add the peas and thyme and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Spoon the mixture into the baking dish or individual dishes.

To make the crust: Put the whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt into a food processor and pulse a few times to combine. Add the butter and pulse about 12 times, or until pebble sized pieces are formed.

Add the buttermilk then oil to the food processor and pulse until just moistened. Do not over mix. Drop the batter in 6 mounds on top of the chicken mixture (1 mound on each individual dish, if using) spreading the batter out slightly. Bake until filling is bubbling and the biscuit topping is golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Nutritional analysis per serving

  • Calories 400
  • Total Fat 17 g
  • (Sat Fat 5.7 g, Mono Fat 7.7 g, Poly Fat 2.7 g)
  • Protein 31 g
  • Carb 31 g
  • Fiber 5 g
  • Cholesterol 82 mg
  • Sodium 600 mg

Excellent source of: Protein, Fiber, Vitamin A, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, Selenium

Good source of: Thiamin, Vitamin B12, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, Calcium, Iodine, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Mini Molten Chocolate Cakes with Mocha Sauce

logo

Recipe courtesy EatingWell.com

Ingredients

  • 4 ounces dark or bittersweet chocolate (60-75% cacao), coarsely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into chunks
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons light cream
  • 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder or granules dissolved in 1 tablespoon hot water, divided
  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 5 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 1-3 teaspoons very hot water

Directions

Position rack in center of oven; preheat to 350°F. Generously coat the mini muffin pan with cooking spray.

Place chocolate and butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. (Alternatively, see Tip.) Microwave on High for 1 minute. Stir well, then continue microwaving on Medium, stirring every 20 seconds, until the remaining chocolate melts completely.

To prepare filling: Stir together granulated sugar, cream and half the espresso mixture in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on High just to steaming, 20 to 40 seconds. (Alternatively, combine in a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until just steaming.) Stir until the sugar dissolves. Add corn syrup and half the melted chocolate (reserve the other half for the batter); stir until completely smooth. Cover and transfer to the freezer until cold and firm, about 30 minutes.

To prepare batter: When the filling has been chilling for 20 minutes, whisk egg, oil, vanilla, salt and the remaining espresso mixture in a medium bowl until very smooth. Return the remaining chocolate mixture to the microwave. Microwave on Medium, stirring every 20 seconds, until just warm again (do not overheat). In two batches, whisk the egg mixture into the warm chocolate until well blended. Sift confectioners’ sugar, flour and cocoa over the batter and whisk in just until smoothly incorporated.

To assemble cakes: Remove the filling from the freezer. Spoon half the batter into the mini muffin cups, about 1 rounded teaspoon per cup. Spoon 1/2 teaspoon filling onto the center of each (reserve the rest for the sauce). Divide the remaining batter evenly among the muffin cups, about 1 rounded teaspoon per cake. Smooth out the batter to cover the filling.

Bake the cakes on the middle rack until the edges look dry and puffed but the centers still look very underdone and puddinglike, 6 to 9 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack until firm, about 2 minutes. Place a cutting board on top of the pan and invert the mini cakes out onto it. If the cakes are stuck to the pan, run a knife around and under them to loosen.

To prepare sauce & serve: Thoroughly stir very hot water into the reserved filling, 1 teaspoon at a time, until very smooth and slightly fluid. Serve the warm cakes drizzled with the sauce.

No Microwave? Melt chocolate in a double boiler instead: Place chopped chocolate in the top of a double boiler over hot, but not boiling water. Gently stir until the chocolate is almost melted. Remove from the heat and stir until it melts completely.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Pork Chops Stuffed with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

logo

Recipe courtesy Giada De Laurentiis

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 sun-dried tomatoes, diced
  • 1 (10-ounce) bag of frozen spinach, thawed and excess water squeezed out
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup (2 ounces) goat cheese
  • 1/3 cup reduced-fat cream cheese
  • 4 (4-ounce) center-cut pork chops
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 lemon, zested
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

Directions

Warm the 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saute pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until combined, about 2 more minutes. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl. Add the goat cheese and the cream cheese. Stir to combine and set aside.

Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the thickest portion of the pork chop. Stuff each pocket with 1/4 of the spinach and sun-dried tomato mixture and close the pork around the stuffing. Season the outside of the pork with salt and pepper.

In a small bowl combine the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and mustard.

Warm the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot add the pork. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer the pork to a side dish and tent with foil to keep warm. Add the chicken broth mixture to the skillet over medium-high heat. Scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan as the chicken broth simmers. Reduce the broth by half to make a light sauce, about 8 minutes. Spoon some sauce over the pork before serving.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Grilled Chicken and Avocado Napoleons

logo

Grilled Chicken and Avocado Napoleons

Recipe courtesy Giada De Laurentiis, 2008

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 2 (9 by 10-inch) sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed and cut into 12 (3 by 5-inch) rectangles
  • 4 (4-ounce) boneless and skinless chicken breast halves
  • Kosher salt
  • Olive oil, for drizzling
  • 3 tablespoons reduced fat mayonnaise
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 large avocado, thinly sliced into 8 pieces
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves

Directions

Place an oven rack in the lower 1/3 of the oven. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

Place the pastry on the prepared baking sheets. Using the tines of a fork, prick the top of the pastry all over. Cover the pastry with parchment paper and place another baking sheet on top. Bake for 25 minutes until golden. Remove the top baking sheets and parchment paper. Set aside to cool.

Preheat a grill pan or preheat a gas or charcoal grill. Season the chicken with salt and drizzle with olive oil. Grill until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Set aside to cool.

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and cayenne pepper.

To assemble the Napoleons: Place 4 pieces pastry on a work surface. Slice each chicken breast diagonally into 6 (1/4-inch thick) slices. Place 3 chicken breast slices on each piece of pastry. Place 1/4 cup of spinach and 1 avocado slice on top. Spread 1 teaspoon of the mayonnaise mixture on the underside of another 4 pieces of pastry to create the middle layer of each Napoleon. Place on top. Repeat the layering. Each Napoleon should be completed with a piece of pastry as its top.

Arrange the Napoleons on a platter and serve.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Garlic and Citrus Chicken

logo

Recipe courtesy Giada De Laurentiis

Serves: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 (5 to 6-pound) whole roasting chicken, neck and giblets discarded
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 orange, quartered
  • 1 lemon, quartered
  • 1 head garlic, halved crosswise, plus 3 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 2 (14-ounce) cans reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano leaves
  • Kitchen string or butcher twine

Directions

Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 400 degrees F.

Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle the cavity with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with the orange, lemon, and garlic halves. Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen string to help hold its shape. Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper.

Place a rack in a large roasting pan. Place the chicken, breast side up, on the rack in the pan. Roast the chicken for 1 hour, basting occasionally and adding some chicken broth to the pan, if necessary, to prevent the pan drippings from burning. Whisk the orange juice, lemon juice, oil, oregano, and chopped garlic in a medium bowl to blend. Brush some of the juice mixture over the chicken, after it has baked 1 hour. Continue roasting the chicken until an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the innermost part of the thigh registers 170 degrees F, basting occasionally with the juice mixture and adding broth to the pan, about 45 minutes longer. Transfer the chicken to a platter. Tent with foil while making the sauce (do not clean the pan).

Place the same roasting pan over medium-low heat. Whisk in any remaining broth and simmer until the sauce is reduced to 1 cup, stirring often, about 3 minutes. Strain into a 2-cup glass measuring cup and discard the solids. Spoon the fat from the top of the sauce. Serve the chicken with the pan sauce.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Marinated Pork Chop with Pineapple Salsa

logo

Recipe courtesy The Neelys

Ingredients

Marinade:

  • 1/4 teaspoon lime zest
  • 2 limes, juiced
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 small shallot, chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, chopped and seeds removed
  • 1 garlic clove, chopped
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Salt

Directions

Pineapple Salsa:

  • 1/2 pineapple, diced and cored, juices reserved
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, minced
  • 1/2 small jalapeno, diced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro leaves
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper
  • 4 bone-in, center-cut pork chops

For the marinade:

Blend all the ingredients in a large bowl. Place in a resealable plastic bag and add the pork chops. Marinate in the refrigerator for up to 3 hours.

For the salsa:

Mix all the salsa ingredients in a medium bowl. Taste for seasoning. Set aside for 10 minutes for flavors to meld.

Preheat grill to medium heat.

Remove chops from marinade. Grill for 5 minutes per side for a medium rare and 8 minutes for medium. Remove chops from grill and let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Spoon the salsa on top.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Bev’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

logo

Recipe courtesy EatingWell.com

Yields: 2.5 dozen

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup whole-wheat flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat 2 baking sheets with cooking spray.

Grind oats in a blender or food processor. Transfer to a medium bowl and stir in flour, baking soda and salt. Beat butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg and vanilla; beat until smooth and creamy. With the mixer running, add the dry ingredients, beating on low speed until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.

Drop the dough by heaping teaspoonfuls, at least 1 inch apart, onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake cookies, 1 sheet at a time, until firm around the edges and golden on top, about 15 minutes. Cool the cookies for 2 minutes on the baking sheets, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: From Ari: Potato Latkes

logo

Latkes

The Jewish holiday of Chanukah is an 8 day celebration that began last Friday night and ends on Saturday. We celebrate the victory over the Syrian-Greeks in the 2nd century BCE. Upon entering the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, the Jews found only one small jug of olive oil which was suitable to light the Menorah in the Temple. Miraculously, the one small jug of oil lasted 8 days. To commemorate this miracle, the Jewish sages established the holiday of Chanukah.

Brandon asked me to share a traditional Chanukah dish for his recipe of the week. In honor of the miracle of the oil, traditional Chanukah foods are usually fried in oil. I know it’s not the healthiest of foods, but even this healthy eater cannot resist. Potato Latkes, in their traditional form, are pancakes made with shredded potatoes and onions. I am sure every Jewish child says this about their mother’s cooking, but my mom makes the best latkes. Her recipe is a family secret that she inherited from her mother.  If I shared it, not only would I have to shoot you all, but my mother would disown me. Instead, here is a similar recipe:

Traditional Latkes

Ingredients:

5 large potatoes, peeled
1 large onion
3 eggs
1/3 cup flour
1 tsp. Salt
¼ tsp. pepper
¾ cup oil for frying

Use: 10-inch skillet
Yields: 4 to 6 servings

Grate potatoes and onion on the fine side of a grater, or in a food processor; or put in a blender with a little water.

Strain grated potatoes and onion through a colander, pressing out excess water. Add eggs, flour, and seasoning. Mix well.
Heat ½ cup oil in skillet. Lower flame and place 1 large tablespoon batter at a time into hot sizzling oil and fry on one side for approximately 5 minutes until golden brown. Turn over and fry on other side 2 to 3 minutes.

Remove from pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Continue with remaining batter until used up, adding more oil when necessary.

Serve with applesauce and/or sour cream on the side.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Ricotta Cheesecake with Fresh Raspberries

logo

ek0103_ricottacheesecake-3_lg

2005, Ellie Krieger, All rights reserved

Ingredients

  • Cooking spray
  • 1 (15-ounce) container part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup reduced fat sour cream
  • 4 ounces Neufchatel cheese, or reduced fat cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup all-fruit seedless raspberry jam
  • 1 tablespoon orange liqueur or water
  • 2 (6-ounce) containers fresh raspberries

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Coat a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Place ricotta in a food processor and process until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream, Neufchatel, eggs, sugar, flour, vanilla, orange zest and salt. Process until well blended. Pour into the prepared pan and bake until the center is just set, 50 to 55 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool and then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours.

In a small saucepan, bring the jam and liqueur or water to a boil, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove sides of pan. Brush the tart with the jam mixture and top with raspberries, flat-side down.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Ham, Gruyere and Spinach Bread Pudding

logo

eatingwell_MK5155_lg

Recipe courtesy EatingWell.com

Serves: 6

Ingredients

Custard:

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup skim milk

Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary

Bread & filling:

  • 4 cups whole-grain bread, crusts removed if desired, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 1/2 pound, 4-6 slices)
  • 5 cups chopped spinach, wilted (see Tip)
  • 1/2 cup chopped jarred roasted red peppers
  • 1 cup diced ham steak (5 ounces)

Topping:

  • 3/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Coat an 11-by-7-inch glass baking dish or a 2-quart casserole with cooking spray.

To prepare custard: Whisk egg whites, eggs and milk in a medium bowl. Add mustard, pepper and rosemary: whisk to combine.

Toss bread, spinach, roasted red peppers and ham in a large bowl. Add the custard and toss well to coat. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and push down to compact. Cover with foil.

Bake until the custard has set, 40 to 45 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with cheese and continue baking until the pudding is puffed and golden on top, 15 to 20 minutes more. Transfer to a wire rack and cool for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

To wilt greens, rinse greens thoroughly in cool water. Transfer them to a large microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and punch several holes in the wrap. Microwave on high until wilted, 2 to 3 minutes. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the greens before adding them to the recipe.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Orange Essence

logo

EK0311_Mashed_Sweet_Potatoes_lg

Recipe courtesy Ellie Krieger, 2007, All rights reserved

Ingredients

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes (about 8 ounces each), peeled and cut into a large dice
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk, warmed slightly
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, optional

Directions

Steam the potatoes in a large covered pan fitted with a steamer basket until they are tender, about 8 minutes.

In a large bowl mash the potatoes with the buttermilk and orange juice. Stir in the zest, salt, and nutmeg. Serve the potatoes topped with the butter, if desired.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Frozen Pumpkin Mousse Pie

logo

eatingwell_recipe_6310_lg

Recipe courtesy EatingWell.com

Serves 10

Ingredients

Crust:

  • 30 small gingersnap cookies (about 7 1/2 ounces)
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil

Filling:

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 2 pints (4 cups) frozen low-fat vanilla ice cream, softened (see Tip)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan with cooking spray.

To prepare crust: Combine gingersnaps and raisins in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Add oil and pulse until blended. Press evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan.

Bake the crust until set, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

To prepare filling: Combine pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg in a large bowl and mix well. Add ice cream and stir until blended. Spoon the mixture into the cooled pie crust. Freeze until firm, at least 2 hours. Let the pie soften slightly in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes before serving.

To soften ice cream quickly, microwave on Medium-Low for 30 to 60 seconds.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Turkey Roulade with Apple-Cider Gravy

logo

EK0303_Turkey-Roulade-with-Gravy_lg

Recipe courtesy Ellie Krieger, 2007, All rights reserved

Serves: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 (2 1/2-pound) skinless turkey breast, butterflied
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
  • 1/2 large onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups), plus 1 cup sliced onion
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 5 slices day-old whole-wheat bread, crusts removed, cubed (about 2 1/2 cups)
  • 1/3 cup lightly toasted chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons fresh crumbled sage or 3 teaspoons dried, divided
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon cold water

Directions

Special equipment: kitchen twine

Place the turkey breast between 2 sheets of plastic wrap and pound lightly with a meat mallet to an even thickness of about 3/4-inch. Set aside while stuffing is prepared.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Place the cranberries in a small saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat, drain and reserve. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook, stirring, until onions are golden but not charred, about 12 to 15 minutes. Add the garlic and cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Add bread, cranberries, pecans, 2 tablespoons fresh or 2 teaspoons dried sage and 1/2 to 3/4-cup chicken stock, depending upon consistency of stuffing; (you want the mixture to be moistened, but not too wet, since the turkey will release moisture when cooked). Cook over low heat for about 2 to 3 minutes, remove from heat.

Salt and pepper the inside and outside of the turkey breast. Spread the stuffing on the turkey, leaving about 1 1/2 to 2-inches uncovered on all sides. Roll up and secure tightly with kitchen twine, trying to keep all stuffing intact.

Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large Dutch oven or medium-sized roasting pan until hot. Sear stuffed turkey breast on all sides until lightly browned, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Add sliced onion and 1 1/2 cups chicken stock, cover tightly and roast in the oven until turkey reaches 160 degrees F when an instant-read thermometer is inserted into inner layer of meat, about 60 to 65 minutes. Remove the turkey breast from oven and transfer to a cutting board to rest.

Make the gravy: Add apple cider, 1/2 cup chicken stock, vinegar and remaining sage to the onions, chicken stock and juices in the roasting pan, bring to a boil and cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid is reduced by 1/3. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly, and cook for 3 minutes more. The gravy should not be thick, just slightly thicker than a jus. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Makes 1 1/2 cups gravy.

Remove twine from turkey breast and slice into 1 1/2-inch thick pieces. Serve with gravy.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Zach’s Awesome Chili

logo

chili-recipe-af

Thanks to Zach

This is a top-secret recipe, in that I just made it up and wrote it down after enjoying it this evening. This chili rocks, and you can make it as spicy or as mild as you want to by varying the amount of seeds from the peppers that you put in.

1-2 TBS Olive Oil
1 small onion, diced (or half of a large onion)
1 clove of garlic, diced

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet deep enough to hold quite a bit of chili. Add onion and garlic. Saute until the onion is almost clear and it smells really good.

Add:
1/2 lb. stir-fry pork
1/2 lb. stir-fry beef (I use both. You’ll want to, too.)

Stir frequently until the meat is browned all the way through. Then add:

1 large can diced tomatoes with their juices (or 2-3 medium ripe tomatoes, diced)
1 can chili beans
1 can red beans (pinto or kidney beans also work well in place of either can)
1 diced jalapeno pepper (don’t add the seeds unless you want it HOT)
2 cans diced mild green chilies
1 TBS cumin
3 TBS dried oregano (or 4-5 tablespoons of fresh diced oregano)
2 TBS brown sugar
2 chipotle peppers (again you’re going to want to remove the seeds unless you want it really hot)

Combine well and reduce heat. Allow to simmer 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Add

2 small cans (or 1 large can) tomato sauce

Simmer for 10 more minutes, again stirring occasionally. Serve hot with cheese and sour cream for those that want it. Cornbread or fritos make great accompaniments.

If you split it into 8 servings, it’s really healthy

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Udon Soup with Shrimp

logo

0910p115-japanese-noodles-l

Serves: 4

Although homemade dashi (Japanese seaweed broth) is part of the easy beauty of this dish, you can substitute instant dashi in a pinch. If you take that shortcut, infuse the broth with fresh ginger.

Ingredients

2 large sheets kombu (kelp)
2 quarts cold water
1 cup bonito flakes (about 1/4 ounce)
1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
1 ounce dried mushroom blend
1 (14-ounce) package fresh jumbo udon noodles
2 green onions, trimmed
1 tablespoon sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions

1. Wipe kombu clean with a cloth; cut sheeting lengthwise into 3-inch pieces. Place kombu in a large saucepan over medium-high heat; cover with 2 quarts cold water. Heat mixture to 180° or until tiny bubbles form around edge (do not boil). Reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes. Remove from heat; discard kombu. Stir in bonito and ginger; let stand 10 minutes or until bonito sinks. Strain through a cheesecloth-lined colander over a bowl; discard solids.

2. Wipe pan clean. Return broth to pan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Stir in mushrooms; let stand 20 minutes. Strain mixture through a cheesecloth-lined colander over a bowl, reserving mushrooms and broth. Wipe pan clean. Return broth to pan; bring to a simmer. Coarsely chop mushrooms.

3. Cook noodles according to package directions; drain. Cut onions into 1-inch pieces; cut each piece in half lengthwise. Cut onion pieces lengthwise into thin strips. Combine sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar in a small bowl, stirring well. Add shrimp to broth; cook 1 minute. Stir in mushrooms; cook 30 seconds. Remove from heat; stir in vinegar mixture. Place about 1 cup noodles in each of 4 bowls; top with 2 cups broth mixture. Divide onion strips evenly among bowls.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Whole-Grain Pasta with Chickpeas and Escarole

logo

Recipe courtesy Food Network Magazine

Serves 4

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole-grain penne
  • 1 head escarole, roughly chopped
  • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 cup capers, drained and patted dry (optional)
  • 5 cloves garlic, sliced
  • 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed slightly,
  • liquid reserved
  • 1 15.5-ounce can chickpeas, drained, rinsed and patted dry
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

Directions

Cook the pasta according to the package directions; add the escarole during the last 2 minutes, cover and do not stir. Remove the escarole with tongs; set aside. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup cooking liquid. Meanwhile, if you’re using capers, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the capers and fry until crisp, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate.

Add the remaining 3 tablespoons oil to the skillet. Cook the garlic, parsley and red pepper flakes until the garlic toasts slightly, 1 minute. Add the tomatoes, chickpeas, a pinch of salt and the bay leaves. Cook until the tomatoes and chickpeas brown, about 6 minutes. Add the escarole and reserved tomato juice and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 4 more minutes. Remove and discard the bay leaves.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the sauce; season with salt and pepper. (If the sauce is thick, add some reserved pasta water.) Stir in the cheese and top with fried capers, if using, and more cheese.

Per Serving:

Calories 540; Total Fat 19 g; (Sat Fat 4 g, Mono Fat 11 g, Poly Fat 2.6 g); Protein 21 g; Carb 79 g; Fiber 15 g; Cholesterol 9 mg; Sodium 800 mg

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: (Lightened Up) Bacon Jack and Jalapeno Quesadillas

logo

Ingredients

Guacamole:

  • 1 ripe Hass avocado, halved, seeded and peeled
  • 1 small tomato, diced
  • 2 scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro leaves
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt, to taste

Quesadillas:

  • 4 strips turkey bacon (about 3 ounces)
  • 6 scallions,(white and green parts) thinly sliced
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 3 (8-inch) multi-grain tortillas
  • 3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream, optional
  • Cilantro, for garnish

Directions

Click here to see how it’s made.

Guacamole: Coarsely mash the avocado in a large bowl. Add the tomato, scallions, lime juice, cilantro, jalapeno, and garlic until blended. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray.

Lightly spray a medium nonstick skillet with cooking spray and set over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook, turning occasionally, until browned, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain. Crumble and set aside.

To the same skillet, add the scallions, jalapeno, garlic, cumin, and coriander. Cook, stirring often, over medium heat, until the scallions are soft, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat.

Place the tortillas on the baking sheet; sprinkle 1/3 of the cheese, 1/3 of the scallion mixture, and 1/3 of the bacon over half of each tortilla. Fold the unfilled half of each tortilla over the filling. Lightly spray the quesadillas with cooking spray. Bake until lightly browned and crisp, 8 to 10 minutes.

Cut each quesadilla into 4 wedges and serve with the guacamole and sour cream, if using. Garnish with cilantro.

Copyright 2009 Television Food Network, G.P. All rights reserved

Nutritional analysis per serving: 3 wedges with 1/4 cup guacamole and 1 tablespoon sour cream

Calories 320; Total Fat 18 g; (Sat Fat 6 g, Mono Fat 6 g, Poly Fat 2 g) ; Protein 18 g; Carb 26 g; Fiber 7 g; Cholesterol 32 mg; Sodium 630 mg

Food Network Kitchens created this lightened-up recipe from a user submission. Click here to see the original recipe.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Macaroni and 4 Cheeses

logo

2005, Ellie Krieger, All rights reserved

Serves: 8

Ingredients

  • Cooking spray
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen pureed winter squash
  • 2 cups 1 percent lowfat milk
  • 4 ounces extra-sharp Cheddar, grated (about 1 1/3 cups)
  • 2 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, grated (about 2/3 cup)
  • 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon powdered mustard
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
  • 2 tablespoons unseasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a 9 by 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until tender but firm, about 5 to 8 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.

Meanwhile, place the frozen squash and milk into a large saucepan and cook over a low heat, stirring occasionally and breaking up the squash with a spoon until defrosted. Turn the heat up to medium and cook until the mixture is almost simmering, stirring occasionally. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the Cheddar, Jack cheese, ricotta cheese, salt, mustard and cayenne pepper. Pour cheese mixture over the macaroni and stir to combine. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to the baking dish.

Combine bread crumbs, Parmesan and oil in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the top of the macaroni and cheese. Bake for 20 minutes. Then broil for 3 minutes so the top is crisp and nicely browned.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Healthy Carrot Cupcakes

logo

carrot-muffins

Marlene Koch, R.D. at Ironman.com

With all the flavor of traditional carrot cake, but less than half the calories and a fraction of the added sugar, these gems easily fit in a healthy diet.

Ingredients

3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup whole-wheat flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1 1/4 cups carrots, peeled, finely shredded
1/4 cup canola oil
1 small container of baby food: prunes or prunes with apples
1 tsp vanilla
2/3 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2/3 cup Splenda or sugar
1 tbsp powdered sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray and flour or place paper liners in 12 muffin cups. In a medium bowl, combine first 8 ingredients (flour through carrots). In small bowl, whisk together the oil, baby food, vanilla, buttermilk, brown sugar and Splenda or sugar. Pour the oil mixture into the flour mixture and stir until combined. Spoon batter into muffin tins, filling 2/3 full. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until center of cupcake springs back when touched. Remove from oven. Dust muffins with powdered sugar just prior to serving. Makes 12 servings.

Nutrition per serving: 161 calories (201 if using sugar), 7 grams fat (0.5 grams saturated), 21 grams carbohydrates (31 grams if using sugar), 2 grams fiber, 3.5 grams protein, 160 mg sodium

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Mini Corn Bread Crab Cakes with Lemon-Caper Sauce

logo

Laura Zapalowski, Cooking Light, DECEMBER 2007

16 servings (serving size: 1 crab cake and about 1 teaspoon mayonnaise mixture)

Bake the corn bread up to three days in advance, and keep in a zip-top plastic bag. Combine the sauce ingredients and assemble the crab cakes the night before; refrigerate separately. Any leftover crab cakes are terrific with a green salad.

Ingredients

  • Sauce:
  • 1/3  cup  reduced-fat mayonnaise
  • 1 1/2  tablespoons  chopped fresh chives
  • 1  tablespoon  capers, drained and chopped
  • 1/4  teaspoon  grated lemon rind
  • 2  teaspoons  fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4  teaspoon  hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco)
  • 1/8  teaspoon  minced garlic
  • Dash of freshly ground black pepper

Crab Cakes

  • 2  teaspoons  olive oil
  • 1/2  cup  sliced green onions
  • 1/3  cup  finely diced red bell pepper
  • 1/3  cup  finely diced green bell pepper
  • 1  garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4  cup  reduced-fat mayonnaise
  • 2  tablespoons  chopped fresh chives
  • 2  tablespoons  chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2  teaspoon  grated lemon rind
  • 1  tablespoon  fresh lemon juice
  • 1  tablespoon  hot pepper sauce
  • 1  teaspoon  (30%-less-sodium) Old Bay seasoning
  • 1  large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2  cups  crumbled Buttermilk Corn Bread
  • 1  pound  lump crabmeat, shell pieces removed
  • Cooking spray
  • Fresh chives (optional)

Preparation

To prepare sauce, combine first 8 ingredients; chill.

Preheat oven to 400°.

To prepare crab cakes, heat oil in a small nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic to pan; sauté 3 minutes. Remove from heat; cool. Combine bell pepper mixture, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, and next 6 ingredients (through Old Bay); stir in egg. Fold in Buttermilk Corn Bread and crabmeat. Scoop mixture into 16 portions (about 1/4 cup each) onto 2 baking sheets coated with cooking spray. Lightly cover, and refrigerate 1 hour. Uncover and bake at 400° for 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from baking sheet with a metal spatula. Serve with sauce. Garnish with chives, if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 83 (35% from fat)
Fat: 3.2g (sat 0.6g,mono 0.8g,poly 0.3g)
Protein: 7.4g
Carbohydrate: 6.4g
Fiber: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 38mg
Iron: 0.6mg
Sodium: 317mg
Calcium: 54mg
  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Thin-Crust Barbecued Pizza

logo

By Jennifer Low

This recipe for Thin-Crust Barbecued Pizza is especially good for families with hungry teenagers. The dough “bubbles” up into a delicious crispy-outside, tender-inside crust. Look for fresh pizza dough in your supermarket’s chilled foods case.

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 lb. (750 g) whole-wheat or regular fresh pizza dough
  • Olive oil for drizzling
  • 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) tomato or pizza sauce
  • Selection of toppings: chopped chicken or ham, lean cooked sausage meat, sweet peppers, tomatoes, onion, Thinly sliced zucchini, baby spinach leaves, mushrooms, fresh chopped herbs such as basil and oregano.
  • 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) grated Cheddar cheese (about 4 oz./ 120 g)
  • 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) grated mozzarella cheese (about 4 oz./ 120 g)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Have the sauce, toppings and cheese ready near the barbecue. To make the pizza crusts, slice off chunks of dough into single serving pieces (about the size of an apple).
  2. Drizzle olive oil onto a work surface (a cookie sheet works well). Rub hands with oil. Press out dough thinly, to about 1/8 inch (3 mm). It must be very thin since grilling makes the dough bubble up a lot.
  3. Lay the flattened dough on the hot grill. Cover and cook. Reduce barbecue heat if there are flare-ups. The crust is ready to be flipped when it is golden and crispy on the underside, about two minutes.
  4. Flip crust and immediately add sauce, toppings and cheese. Cover with the lid, cook until cheese is melted and underside of crust is golden.

Servings: Makes 6 to 8 individual pizzas.
You’ll need to make these one at a time, but they cook quickly.
  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Steamed Artichokes with Almond Saffron Dip

logo

2008, Ellie Krieger, All rights reserved

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 4 artichokes
  • Pinch saffron
  • 1 tablespoon boiling water
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 cup nonfat plain yogurt
  • 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Arrange the artichokes in a steamer basket set over at least 3 cups of water and steam, covered, until the leaves can be easily removed, about 1 hour. Let cool. About halfway through cooking check the water level and add more, if necessary.

In a small bowl, stir together saffron and the tablespoon of boiling water. Toast the almonds in a small dry skillet over medium-high heat until beginning to brown, about 2 minutes. Remove the almonds and add 1 tablespoon of the oil to the pan. Add onion and cook until beginning to brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Transfer to a bowl and let cool. In a food processor, grind the almonds until finely chopped. Add the saffron mixture, onion mixture, yogurt and parsley and puree until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the lemon juice and remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Serve with the artichokes.

Per Serving:

Calories 200; Total Fat 10 g; (Sat Fat 1.5 g, Mono Fat 7 g, Poly Fat 2 g) ; Protein 9 g; Carb 22 g; Fiber 8 g; Cholesterol 0 mg; Sodium 170 mg

Excellent source of: Fiber, Vitamin C, Folate, Vitamin K, Magnesium, Manganese

Good source of: Protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Calcium, Copper, Iron, Phosphorus, Potassium

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Jumbo Shrimp Stuffed with Cilantro and Chiles

logo

From Food Network Kitchens Get Grilling, Meredith, 2005

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 8 jumbo shrimp, in the shell (about 1 1/4 pounds)
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves stripped
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 1/4 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, chopped
  • 1/2 large jalapeno, with seeds
  • 2 scallions (white and green parts)
  • 1 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Directions

Prepare an outdoor grill with a medium-high fire. Without removing the shells, slit about 3/4 of the way through the shrimp down the ridged back and remove the vein that runs down the center. Rinse and pat the shrimp dry. Whisk thyme leaves, lime juice, 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and black pepper, to taste, in a shallow nonreactive bowl or dish. Lay the shrimp cut side down in the lime mixture and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

In a food processor, pulse the garlic, jalapeno, scallions, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt to make a coarse paste. Add the cilantro and pulse just enough to incorporate into the mixture. Spoon the mixture into the opening in the shrimp and close the shrimp. Grill the shrimp shell side down (to keep filling from falling out) for 3 minutes. Turn to the other shell side, cover, and grill another 2 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and are slightly firm to the touch. Sprinkle with salt and serve.

Cook’s Note: Shrimp cooked in the shells are more intensely flavorful. Leaving the shells on provides a buffer against overcooking, a misfortune many shrimp suffer. Shrimp, even these jumbos, continue to cook once removed from the grill. It’s always best to cook them just until opaque and let the delicate shellfish finish cooking off the heat.

Jumbo shrimp in the shell can be a knife and fork sort of deal unless you’re outside and it’s summer and you are feeling very relaxed. Serve these with lots of napkins if your crowd is the peel-and-eat type.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Low-Fat Red Velvet Cake

logo

By Maddie Ruud

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups cake flour
  • 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2 egg whites
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fat-free buttermilk
  • 2 Tbsp red food coloring
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp baking soda

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, spray two 9-in round cake pans with fat-free zero-calorie cooking spray, and line the bottoms with parchment paper. In medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. Separately, in large bowl or electric mixer, beat together sugar, applesauce, and oil. Add egg, egg whites, and vanilla one at a time, beating well after adding each one. In a small bowl combine fat-free buttermilk (see Low-Fat Cooking Substitutions to make your own) and food coloring. Add half the flour mixture to egg mixture, stirring well, then add buttermilk mixture, stir, and finally the rest of the flour mixture, mixing until well combined. Combine baking soda and vinegar in small bowl or measuring cup, allow to fizz, then fold into batter. Immediately divide evenly between cake pans and smooth the tops, then bake 25-30 minutes or until a skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pans, then turn out onto wire rack and allow to cool completely. Wrap layers separately in plastic wrap and freeze at least 60 minutes before icing with low-fat cream-cheese frosting, below.

Low-Fat Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup fat-free vanilla yogurt
  • 3/4 cup fat-free small curd cottage cheese
  • 16 oz Neufchatel or low-fat cream cheese
  • 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Place yogurt and cottage cheese together in food processor and process until smooth. Cube cream cheese and add to processor, processing again until smooth. Add sugar in three parts, processing to mix between additions. Cover and refrigerate until hardened enough to spread.

Icing The Cake

Once cake has hardened in the freezer and frosting is spreadable, cut each 9-inch round in half horizontally to create four layers (or, if you prefer a smaller icing-to-cake ratio, leave as is). Place the first on your serving platter, then spread with frosting. Repeat with next three layers, then frost the sides of the cake. Garnish with grated coconut if desired, and return to refrigerator to let frosting set.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Grilled Yellow Fin Tuna with Grilled Pineapple Salsa

logo

Prep Time: 25 mins.
Cook Time: 10 mins.
Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 pineapple, peeled and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices
  • 6 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup minced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
  • 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus 1 teaspoon
  • 4 (6-ounce) tuna steaks
  • 1 tablespoon Essence, recipe follows
  • Fresh cilantro sprigs, for garnish

Directions

Brush the pineapple slices lightly with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, then place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until softened slightly and nicely marked by the grill, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove from the grill and allow to cool to room temperature. Dice the pineapple slices (discard the tough core portions) and place in a medium nonreactive bowl. Add the red onion, bell pepper, vinegar, jalapenos, lime juice, cilantro and minced garlic. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of the olive oil and stir well to combine. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and set aside as you prepare the tuna.

Set a grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the tuna steaks with remaining salt and Essence and brush with the 2 remaining tablespoons of the olive oil. Place steaks on the grill, turning 45 degrees after 2 minutes. Repeat on the other side for an additional 2 minutes or until medium-rare. Remove from heat and set aside. Serve with the Grilled Pineapple Salsa.

Emeril’s ESSENCE Creole Seasoning (also referred to as Bayou Blast):Emeril’s ESSENCE Creole Seasoning (also referred to as Bayou Blast):

  • 2 1/2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme

Combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Yield: 2/3 cup

  • Recipe from “New New Orleans Cooking”, by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch
  • Published by William Morrow, 1993.
  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Watermelon Gazpacho

logo

Serves: 4~6

Ingredients:

  • 8 cups cubed seeded watermelon
  • 1 apple, diced
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped Vidalia onion
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped green pepper
  • 2 teaspoons fresh basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cider vinegar

Instructions:

In a blender, puree watermelon with the apple and 1/4 cup each of the onion and green pepper; pour into a large mixing bowl. Stir in the remaining ingredients (including the other 1/4 cup of onion and green pepper). Refrigerate, covered, for at least an hour to blend flavors.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Mango-Yogurt-White Rum Smoothie

logo

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted and chopped
  • 2 cups Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup mango nectar
  • 1/2 cup white rum
  • Crushed ice
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons simple syrup, depending on sweetness of mangoes

Directions

Combine mango, yogurt, nectar, rum and a few cups of crushed ice in a blender and blend until smooth and frothy. Sweeten with simple syrup, if needed. Divide among 4 glasses and serve.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Picnic Oven-Fried Chicken

logo

Prep Time: 20 min.
Cook Time: 1 hr. 15 min.
Serves; 4

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce, such as
  • 2 1/2-3 pounds chicken legs, skin removed, trimmed and cut into thighs and drumsticks
  • 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • Freshly ground pepper to taste
  • Olive oil cooking spray

Directions

Whisk buttermilk, mustard, garlic and hot sauce in a shallow glass dish until well blended. Add chicken and turn to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1/2 hour or for up to 8 hours.

Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil. Set a wire rack on the baking sheet and coat it with cooking spray.

Whisk flour, sesame seeds, paprika, thyme, baking powder, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Place the flour mixture in a paper bag or large sealable plastic bag. Shaking off excess marinade, place one or two pieces of chicken at a time in the bag and shake to coat. Shake off excess flour and place chicken on the prepared rack. (Discard any leftover flour mixture and marinade.) Spray chicken pieces with cooking spray.

Bake the chicken until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, 40 to 50 minutes.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Salmon with Lemon, Capers, and Rosemary

logo

Prep Time: 20 min.
Cook Time: 10 min.
Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary leaves
  • 8 lemon slices (about 2 lemons)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1/2 cup Marsala wine (or white wine)
  • 4 teaspoons capers
  • 4 pieces of aluminum foil

Directions

Brush top and bottom of salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and rosemary. Place each piece of seasoned salmon on a piece of foil large enough to fold over and seal. Top the each piece of salmon with 2 lemon slices, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of wine, and 1 teaspoon of capers. Wrap up salmon tightly in the foil packets.

Place a grill pan over medium-high heat or preheat a gas or charcoal grill. Place the foil packets on the hot grill and cook for 10 minutes for a 1-inch thick piece of salmon. Serve in the foil packets.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Oven Barbecued Brisket

logo

Makes 12 servings

Ingredients

2 medium shallots, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 teaspoons chili powder
4 teaspoons smoked paprika or Hungarian paprika
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
4 pounds first-cut brisket (or flat-cut), trimmed of fat
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
1 14-ounce can no-salt-added diced tomatoes
¼ cup packed dark brown sugar
¼ cup cider vinegar

Instructions

1. Combine shallots, garlic, chili powder, paprika, cinnamon, oregano and salt in a small bowl. Rub into both sides of meat. Set the meat in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Pour Worcestershire sauce over the meat. Cover the pan with foil and set aside at room temperature while the oven heats to 350°F.
3. Bake the brisket, covered, for 2 hours. Meanwhile, blend tomatoes, brown sugar and vinegar in a large blender or food processor until smooth.
4. After 2 hours, pour the tomato mixture over the meat; continue baking, covered, until fork-tender, basting with pan juices every 30 minutes, for about 1 1/2 hours more.
5. Remove the meat from the sauce. Let rest for 10 minutes, then slice against the grain. Skim the fat from the sauce in the pan; pour the sauce over the meat and serve (or follow make-ahead instructions).

Tips

Bake, let the sliced brisket cool in the sauce for 1 hour, cover with foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat, covered, in a preheated 350°F oven for 40 minutes; if frozen, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Information

Per serving: 228 calories; 7 g fat (3 g sat, 3 g mono); 64 mg cholesterol; 8 g carbohydrate; 32 g protein; 1 g fiber; 221 mg sodium; 351 mg potassium.

Nutrition bonus: Zinc (53% daily value), Iron (20% dv), Vitamin A (15% dv).

1/2 Carbohydrate Serving

Exchanges: 1/2 other carbohydrate, 4 lean meat

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Italian Style Burgers with Balsamic Ketchup and Basil Aioli

logo

Serves 4

Ingredient List

Burgers

  • 1 1/4 lbs extra lean ground beef
  • 2 (uncooked) turkey or chicken Italian sausages, casings removed
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 t fennel seed, coarsely chopped
  • 1 1/2 cup arugula
  • 4 ciabatta rolls (or one loaf cut into quarters)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
  • 1 small red onion, sliced thin

Balsamic Ketchup

To Start

If grilling, prepare the grill.

For the Balsamic Ketchup

Combine the ketchup and balsamic vinegar in a small mixing bowl. Stir well to combine.

For the burgers

Combine the beef, turkey sausage, garlic, basil, and fennel seed in a large mixing bowl, then season liberally with salt and pepper. Form the mixture into four patties (can make five smaller patties if desired). Place on the heated grill and cook until done. Just before removing from heat, top with Gorgonzola cheese to melt cheese.

Lightly toast the rolls. Spread with balsamic ketchup and basil aioli. Place a bed of arugula on the bottom bun and build burgers. Top with sliced red onion.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Grilled Fruit with Spiced Chai Syrup

logo

2006, Ellie Krieger, All rights reserved

Serves: 4 servings (1 serving is 2 banana halves plus 2 Tbs syrup)

Ingredients

Spiced Chai Syrup:

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 chai tea-bag
  • 3/4 cup honey
  • 5 peppercorns
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 star anise
  • 2 cardamom pods
  • 1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled
  • 2 whole cloves

Grilled bananas:

  • Cooking spray
  • 4 ripe, firm bananas

Directions

For the syrup: In a small saucepan, boil 1/2 cup water. Turn off heat, add tea-bag and brew tea, leaving bag in the water until cool and tea is very dark. Remove tea-bag, squeezing out excess tea. Add honey and all of the spices. Bring liquid to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 5 to 7 minutes, or until liquid has slightly reduced and you are left with 1 cup of liquid. Remove from heat and cool for half an hour. Using a fine-meshed sieve or tea brewer, strain out whole spices. Syrup should be thinner than honey, but still have body.

For the bananas: Preheat grill or grill pan sprayed with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Slice bananas in half lengthwise. Grill fruit until slightly softened and light grill marks form, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Place 2 banana halves on a dessert plate and drizzle with 2 tablespoons syrup.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Broiled Tilapia with Thai Coconut-Curry Sauce

logo

4 servings (serving size: 1 fillet, 1/2 cup sauce, 3/4 cup rice, and 1 lime wedge)

Ingredients

  • 1  teaspoon  dark sesame oil, divided
  • 2  teaspoons  minced peeled fresh ginger
  • 2  garlic cloves, minced
  • 1  cup  finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 1  cup  chopped green onions
  • 1  teaspoon  curry powder
  • 2  teaspoons  red curry paste
  • 1/2  teaspoon  ground cumin
  • 4  teaspoons  low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1  tablespoon  brown sugar
  • 1/2  teaspoon  salt, divided
  • 1  (14-ounce) can light coconut milk
  • 2  tablespoons  chopped fresh cilantro
  • 4  (6-ounce) tilapia fillets
  • Cooking spray
  • 3  cups  hot cooked basmati rice
  • 4  lime wedges

Preparation

Preheat broiler.

Heat 1/2 teaspoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic; cook 1 minute. Add pepper and onions; cook 1 minute. Stir in curry powder, curry paste, and cumin; cook 1 minute. Add soy sauce, sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and coconut milk; bring to a simmer (do not boil). Remove from heat; stir in cilantro.

Brush fish with 1/2 teaspoon oil; sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Place fish on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Broil 7 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Serve fish with sauce, rice, and lime wedges.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 506 (30% from fat)
Fat: 17.1g (sat 5.9g,mono 6g,poly 2.5g)
Protein: 29g
Carbohydrate: 56.6g
Fiber: 3.1g
Cholesterol: 82mg
Iron: 2.7mg
Sodium: 616mg
Calcium: 47mg
  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Scallops with Cabbage and Capers

logo

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 head light-green cabbage, sliced
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 1/4 pounds sea scallops
  • Freshly ground pepper
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed if packed in salt
  • 1/4 cup golden raisins
  • 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle in the sugar and cook until it just turns golden.

Add the cabbage and 1/2 teaspoon salt, cover and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Add the broth and continue cooking, covered, until crisp-tender, another 15 minutes. Preheat the broiler to high.

Transfer the cabbage to a casserole dish. Wipe out the skillet, then add the remaining 6 tablespoons butter and melt over medium heat. Brush the scallops with some of the butter and season with salt and pepper; arrange in a single layer over the cabbage in the casserole dish and broil until firm, 5 to 7 minutes.

Meanwhile, continue cooking the butter over low heat, swirling the pan occasionally, until toasted and fragrant, 5 minutes. Add the capers, raisins and vinegar (be careful – the butter may foam and bubble); swirl the pan until the raisins are plump. Season with salt and pepper.

Divide the scallops and cabbage among plates. Add the parsley to the sauce and spoon over the scallops.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Aida’s Corn, Tomato and Avocado Salad

logo

Serves: 8

Ingredients

For the dressing:

  • 1 1/2 cups packed fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup good-quality extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lime zest
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

For the salad:

  • 4 ears corn, kernels removed (about 3 cups)
  • 1 1/2 pounds grape tomatoes, halved (about 3 cups)
  • 1 pound fresh mozzarella, diced
  • 2 medium avocados, diced

Directions

Combine the dressing ingredients in a blender, using 2 teaspoons salt, and pepper to taste; process until smooth. Combine the salad ingredients in a large bowl and toss with the dressing. Let sit at least 15 minutes before serving, or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Thai Beef Salad

logo


Laura Zapalowski, Cooking Light, October 2007
Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 1  cup  loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/4  cup  fresh lime juice (about 3 limes)
  • 2  tablespoons  low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 1/2  tablespoons  Thai fish sauce
  • 1  tablespoon  honey
  • 2  teaspoons  grated orange rind
  • 2  garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1/2  small serrano chile
  • 2  teaspoons  olive oil
  • 4  (4-ounce) beef tenderloin steaks, trimmed
  • 1/4  teaspoon  black pepper
  • 1/8  teaspoon  salt
  • 2  cups  shredded Napa cabbage
  • 1  cup  grated, seeded, peeled cucumber
  • 1/3  cup  thinly sliced green onions
  • 3  tablespoons  chopped fresh basil
  • 1  (12-ounce) package broccoli coleslaw
  • 1  (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges in light syrup, drained

Preparation

Combine first 8 ingredients in a food processor; process until smooth.

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle steak evenly on both sides with pepper and salt. Add steak to pan; cook 4 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness. Remove steak from pan; let stand 5 minutes. Thinly slice steak.

Combine cabbage and the remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Drizzle slaw mixture with cilantro mixture; toss. Arrange 2 cups slaw mixture on each of 4 plates; top each serving with 3 ounces beef.

Nutritional Information

Calories:
313 (34% from fat)
Fat:
11.8g (sat 4g,mono 5.5g,poly 0.6g)
Protein:
28.2g
Carbohydrate:
22.6g
Fiber:
5g
Cholesterol:
71mg
Iron:
2.8mg
Sodium:
883mg
Calcium:
105mg
  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Greek Pasta Salad with Feta and Chicken

logo

2006, Robin Miller, All rights reserved

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces ditalini or other pasta
  • 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and ground black pepper
  • 2 cups cooked cubed chicken (about 1 pound)
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions.

In a small bowl, whisk together broth, oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt and pepper to taste. Add diced chicken, green pepper, and mint.

Drain pasta and add to bowl with dressing and chicken. Toss to combine. Cover with plastic and refrigerate until ready to serve. Top with feta cheese just before serving.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Southwestern Pasta Salad

logo

Southwestern Pasta Salad

Recipe courtesy Bobby Flay

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 pound orecchiette, cooked al dente
  • 2 yellow peppers, grilled and julienned
  • 1 red onion, finely sliced
  • 6 tomatillos, quartered
  • 1 cup fresh corn kernels
  • 1 cup frozen baby lima beans, thawed
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 1 canned chipotle pepper
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped

Directions

Place cooked pasta in a large bowl, add peppers, onions, tomatillo, corn and lima beans. Place vinegar and chipotle peppers in a blender and blend until smooth. Slowly add olive oil until emulsified and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the salad with the dressing and add cilantro.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Mock Risotto

logo

Mock Risotto

Recipe courtesy EatingWell.com

Risotto is hardly effortless fare, what with all that stirring over a hot stove. But instant brown rice and creamy Neufchatel cheese can make a nutty, rich, stand-in version that’s sure to be a family favorite. Substitute any vegetables you wish for the asparagus and bell pepper. Make it a Meal: Paired with a salad, this is a perfect vegetarian main course, or serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak.

Prep Time:40 min
Serves:4 servings, 1 1/2 cups each

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups instant brown rice
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable or reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1/4-inch pieces
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchatel)
  • 1/2 cup grated Asiago or Parmesan cheese, plus more for passing, if desired
  • 1/4 cup minced chives or scallion greens

Directions

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add onion and salt and cook, stirring often, until soft and just beginning to brown, 4 to 6 minutes. Add rice and garlic and cook until the garlic is fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add broth and bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.

Remove cover and spread asparagus and bell pepper on top of the simmering rice—do not stir into the rice mixture. Replace cover and continue simmering, adjusting the heat if necessary, until the liquid is almost absorbed and the asparagus is bright green but still crisp, about 5 minutes.

Add peas and cream cheese; stir until the mixture is creamy and the cheese is incorporated. Return to a simmer and continue cooking until the liquid has evaporated and the asparagus is tender, about 5 minutes more. Stir in 1/2 cup Asiago (or Parmesan). Serve topped with chives (or scallions) and additional grated cheese.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Classic Boston Baked Beans

logo

Serves 12

Ingredients

2 cups dried small, white beans (navy beans), picked over and rinsed, soaked overnight and drained
4 cups water
2 bay leaves
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 yellow onion, chopped
1/2 cup light molasses
1 1/2 tablespoons dry mustard
3 strips thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

Directions

In a large, ovenproof pot with a tight-fitting lid or in a Dutch oven, combine the beans, water, bay leaves and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt over high heat. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially and simmer until the beans have softened but are still firm, 65 to 75 minutes. Remove from the heat and discard the bay leaves. Don’t drain the beans.

Preheat the oven to 350 F.

Stir the onion, molasses, mustard, bacon and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt into the beans. Cover and bake until the beans are tender and coated with a light syrup, 4 1/2 to 5 hours. Check periodically to make sure the beans don’t dry out, stirring and adding hot water as needed.

Nutritional Analysis

(per serving)

Serving size: about 1/3 cup
Calories 200 Cholesterol 4 mg
Protein 4 g Sodium 197 mg
Carbohydrate 19 g Fiber 6 g
Total fat 4 g Potassium 599 mg
Saturated fat 1 g Calcium 83 mg
Monounsaturated fat 2 g
  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Japanese Chicken-Scallion Rice Bowl

logo

Japanese Chicken-Scallion Rice Bowl

Recipe courtesy EatingWell.com

Prep time: 15 min.
Cook time: 5 min.
Serves: 4 servings, 1 1/2 cups each

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups instant brown rice
  • 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mirin (see Ingredient note)
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1 large egg
  • 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 6 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced

Directions

Prepare instant brown rice according to package directions.

Pour broth into a heavy medium saucepan, along with sugar, soy sauce and mirin. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low.

Stir egg whites and whole egg in a small bowl until just mixed. Add chicken to the simmering broth. Gently pour in the egg mixture, without stirring. Sprinkle scallions on top. When the egg starts to firm up, after about 3 minutes, stir it with chopsticks or a knife. (The chicken will be cooked by now.) Divide the rice among 4 deep soup bowls and top with the chicken mixture.

Ingredient noteMirin is a low-alcohol rice wine essential to Japanese cooking. Look for it in your supermarket with the Asian or gourmet ingredients. An equal portion of sherry or white wine with a pinch of sugar may be substituted for mirin.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Easy Chicken-Mushroom Quesadillas

logo

Easy Chicken-Mushroom Quesadillas

Eating Healthy in 2009. Copyright 2007 Ellie Krieger, All rights reserved.

Prep Time: 12 min.

Cook Time: 16 min.

Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped (about 2 cups)
  • 8 ounces white button mushrooms, (about 3 cups)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cooked chopped skinless, boneless chicken breast (1 breast half)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves, sliced into ribbons
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 4 (10-inch) whole-grain flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese mix or Cheddar
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream

Directions

Heat the oil in a large skillet over a medium heat. Add the onions and mushrooms and cook until the mushroom water is evaporated and they begin to brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Add chicken, cumin, chili powder and oregano and stir until all spices are incorporated. Add spinach, salt and pepper and cook until spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.

Lay 1 tortilla on a flat work surface and sprinkle with 1/4 cup shredded cheese. Spoon 1/2 chicken and vegetable mixture on top of cheese, then top with an additional 1/4 cup cheese. Top with another flour tortilla. Heat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray over medium heat. Carefully place 1 quesadilla in pan and cook 3 minutes. Using a large spatula, gently flip quesadilla and cook an additional 3 minutes until lightly browned and cheese is melted. Repeat with second quesadilla. Slice each quesadilla into quarters. Place 2 quarters on a plate with 1 tablespoon sour cream and 2 tablespoons salsa.

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Crispy Rice Treats

logo

Crispy Rice Treats

2008, Ellie Krieger

15 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup natural chunky-style peanut butter
  • 6 cups crispy brown rice cereal
  • 2/3 cup chopped dried cherries (3 ounces)
  • Cooking spray

Directions

Combine honey and peanut butter in a large pot and heat over medium-low heat until melted, about 2-3 minutes. Add brown rice cereal and cherries and stir to combine until mixture is sticky. Press into a 9 by 13-inch pan sprayed with cooking spray. Let cool, then chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Cut into 15 (2 1/2 by 3-inch) squares.

Per Serving:

Calories 160; Total Fat 5 g; (Sat Fat 0.5 g, Mono Fat 0 g, Poly Fat 0 g) ; Protein 3 g; Carb 26 g; Fiber 2 g; Cholesterol 0 mg; Sodium 35 mg

  • Share/Bookmark

Recipe of the Week: Chicken and Biscuit Pot Pie

logo

Chicken and Biscuit Pot Pie

Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the filling:

  • Cooking spray
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
  • 4 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1/2 pound green beans, trimmed and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups lowfat milk
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup peas, thawed if frozen
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

For the biscuit crust:

  • 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1/2 cup lowfat buttermilk

Directions

To make the filling: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a large shallow casserole dish, or 6 individual casserole dishes with cooking spray.

Season the chicken with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of the oil over a medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer the chicken with its juices to a bowl. .

Add 2 more teaspoons of oil to the same pan and heat it over a medium-high heat. Add the onions, carrots and celery and cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the green beans, garlic and remaining salt and pepper and cook for 2 minute more. Add the milk. Stir the flour into the broth until it is completely dissolved and add to the pan. Cook, stirring, until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 minutes more. Return the chicken with its juices back to the pan. Add the peas and thyme and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Spoon the mixture into the baking dish or individual dishes.

To make the crust: Put the whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt into a food processor and pulse a few times to combine. Add the butter and pulse about 12 times, or until pebble sized pieces are formed.

Add the buttermilk then oil to the food processor and pulse until just moistened. Do not over mix. Drop the batter in 6 mounds on top of the chicken mixture (1 mound on each individual dish, if using) spreading the batter out slightly. Bake until filling is bubbling and the biscuit topping is golden brown, about 20 minutes.

  • Nutritional analysis per serving
  • Calories 400
  • Total Fat 17 g
  • (Sat Fat 5.7 g, Mono Fat 7.7 g, Poly Fat 2.7 g)
  • Protein 31 g
  • Carb 31 g
  • Fiber 5 g
  • Cholesterol 82 mg
  • Sodium 600 mg

Excellent source of: Protein, Fiber, Vitamin A, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, Selenium

Good source of: Thiamin, Vitamin B12, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, Calcium, Iodine, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc

  • Share/Bookmark

BMP: Episode 32

logo

Running with the Pack

Run Ansky Run!

Shamrock Marathon

Homecoming Scotland Run

Ironman Wisconsin

The Stick

Foam Roller

A Runner’s Guide to ITBS

  • Share/Bookmark
Page 1 of 212
logo
Powered by Wordpress | Designed by Elegant Themes