Breakfast

When I was growing up, my mom had plenty of rules when it came to meals. One of the biggest was that breakfast could only be eaten in the morning at (of course) breakfast time.

I used to have issues with that, especially when I'd notice one of the neighbors letting my friends have something breakfasty at dinner time.

"Why can't we have cereal for dinner?" I'd ask. "Or, maybe, pancakes or an omelet?"

But it was always a no-go on that. This really bugged me, especially if Mom was fixing liver-and-onions for dinner.

Mom

Dad and Mom, New York

Once moving out on my own, I had no problems with breakfast for dinner (or any other time, for that matter). To that end, here are six yummy breakfast recipes, including Egg White Frittata with Cheddar and Veggies and Eggs in a Pepper. Enjoy!

CREAMED CHIPPED BEEF ON TOAST

This is from Lisa at allrecipes. The recipe begins, "This chipped beef recipe is straight from my mom. We called it SOS (Same Ole Stuff), and it's great comfort food! It's easy to make and tastes great with a cold beer."

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Makes 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/20225/creamed-chipped-beef-on-toast/.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1-1/2 cups warm milk

1 (8 ounce) jar dried beef, chopped

1 pinch cayenne pepper

bread, toasted

Ingredients

Gather all ingredients.

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth.

Add milk a little at a time, whisking well after each addition. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring, until thickened.

Stir in beef and cayenne; cook until warmed through.

Serve over toast.

Recipe Tip

This recipe can also be made with 3/4 pound browned, drained hamburger meat.

DENVER OMELET

This is from Ali Slagle in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Ali wrote, "The Denver omelet — a diner classic of eggs, bell peppers, onions, ham and often cheese — actually began as a sandwich made with those ingredients in the American West in the late 19th century. Its exact origins are fuzzy, but some historians think it was a modification of egg foo yong made by Chinese laborers working the transcontinental railroad, or a scramble made by pioneers masking spoiled eggs with onions. (Bell peppers were likely a later addition.) When the sandwich became popular in Utah, it was named the Denver sandwich after Denver City, Utah. By the 1950s, the Denver was one of the most popular sandwiches around, and at some point in the mid-20th century, diners swapped the sandwich bun for a knife and fork."

Total Time: 20 minutes; Yield: 2 servings

To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1023378-denver-omelet. Also, while you're at it, I highly recommend signing up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter. So many yummy recipes, great guides...If you're like me, you won't regret it.

Ingredients

6 large eggs

Kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 small green bell pepper, seeds and stem removed, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)

Black pepper

4 ounces ham steak or Canadian bacon, coarsely chopped

1-1/2 ounces coarsely grated Monterey Jack or pepper Jack (heaping 1/3 cup)

Preparation

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1/2 teaspoon salt; set aside.

In a medium (10-inch) nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high. When foaming, add the bell pepper and onion, season lightly with salt and pepper and stir to coat in the butter. Shake into an even layer and cook, undisturbed, until browned underneath, 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the ham and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the mixture to another medium bowl, add the cheese, and stir to combine.

Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium-low. Add 1/2 tablespoon butter and swirl to coat the pan. Whisk the egg mixture and pour half into the skillet. Cook without touching until the eggs around the edges of the pan are set, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Using a spatula, slightly pull the edge of the omelet in toward the center and, while holding the spatula in place, tilt the pan so that the egg runs to the empty skillet. Repeat this around the edge of the whole circle until the surface is nearly set but still shiny. (No runny egg will travel when you tilt the pan.)

Spoon half the vegetable mixture onto half the egg, cover the skillet with a lid or baking sheet, and cook until the egg is set and the cheese is melted, 1 to 3 minutes. Run the spatula around the edges, then fold the naked half over the filling. Slide the omelet onto a plate, then repeat with the remaining butter, egg and filling.

MEXICAN BREAKFAST TACOS

This is from AllRecipes, and begins, "These Mexican breakfast tacos are quick, easy, and delicious! I learned this recipe from the cooks at my restaurant who like to sneak in breakfast before we open. I've grown to love this breakfast. If you like spicy food, you will love it, too."

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 15 minutes; Servings: 4

To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/85185/authentic-mexican-breakfast-tacos/.

Ingredients

6 ounces chorizo sausage

cooking spray

6 large eggs

1/4 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

8 (6 inch) corn tortillas

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1/2 cup salsa

1 dash hot pepper sauce (e.g. Tabasco™), or to taste

Directions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir sausage in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove sausage to a plate. Drain and discard grease; wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.

Place the same skillet over medium heat and grease with cooking spray. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl; pour into the prepared skillet. Cook and gently stir until scrambled and almost dry. Add sausage; continue to cook and stir until firm.

Meanwhile, warm a second skillet over high heat. Cook tortillas until hot and crispy on the edges, but still pliable, about 45 seconds per side.

Sprinkle Monterey Jack cheese evenly onto hot tortillas. Top each with scrambled eggs, salsa, and hot pepper sauce.

EGGS IN A PEPPER

This is from Chef Lizzie at AllRecipes, and begins, "This recipe is paleo and a super easy way to eat your eggs! Can also top with cheese or even a slice of bread."

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 5 minutes; Total Time: 10 minutes; Yield: 1 serving

To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/244281/egg-in-a-pepper/.

Ingredients

1 large egg

1 (1/4 inch thick) ring bell pepper

salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place bell pepper ring in the hot skillet. Crack egg into bell pepper ring; cook until bottom holds together and corners are browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Flip and cook until desired doneness is reached, 2 to 3 minutes more; season with salt and ground black pepper.

EGG WHITE FRITTATA WITH CHEDDAR AND VEGGIES

This is from WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers). It begins, "Sticking to just egg whites in a frittata lets you save room all the flavorful, cheesy goodness on top here. Plus, it had all that filling protein you'd expect in an egg-based main dish so that you feel satisfied. Use this versatile recipe as a jumping-off point for many variations. Other fillings to try: sliced button mushrooms, grated summer squash, diced tomatoes, and flavorful minced shallots. Frittatas are a welcome starring attraction whether it's brunch, lunch, or dinner and leftovers are a gift. Wrap up a wedge in a lettuce leaf for a low-carb lunch or reheat it in the microwave and roll it up in a tortilla for a quick and portable breakfast on the go."

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 4; Serving Size: 1 wedge; Difficulty: Easy; 8 points

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1-1/2 cup egg whites (about 8 large eggs)

1/2 tsp table salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 tsp olive oil

2 bell peppers, medium, any color, diced

1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

8 oz (about 1 cup) reduced fat cheddar cheese, shredded

2 medium scallions, sliced on diagonal

Directions

Whisk together egg whites, salt, and pepper in large bowl until frothy.

Heat oil in 10-inch heavy ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add egg whites and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to set, about 2 minutes. Reduce heat and cook, without stirring, until eggs are almost set, about 6 minutes longer.

Meanwhile, preheat broiler.

Sprinkle Cheddar over frittata. Broil 5 inches from heat until cheese is melted and eggs are set, 1–2 minutes. Sprinkle with scallions. Cut into 4 wedges.

Notes

If you have leftovers, wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 3 days. A wedge of this tasty frittata makes an excellent sandwich filling.

HAM AND PEPPER FRITTATA

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings, Serving size: 1/4 of recipe

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Book Title: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/ham-and-pepper-frittata.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or canola oil

1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper

1/2 cup diced green bell pepper

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1 cup diced, lean, reduced-sodium ham

2 teaspoons dried parsley

1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

2 cups fat-free egg substitute

1 cup shredded, reduced-fat, white Cheddar or Swiss cheese

Directions

Coat a large ovenproof skillet with the olive oil and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the peppers, ham, parsley, and black pepper and saute for several minutes, until the vegetables are crisp-tender and the ham is beginning to brown. Spread the mixture evenly over the bottom of the skillet.

Pour the egg substitute over the skillet mixture and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook without stirring for about 6 minutes, until the eggs are almost set (the edges will be cooked but the top will still be runny).

Remove the lid from the skillet and wrap the handle in aluminum foil (to prevent it from becoming damaged under the broiler). Place the skillet under a preheated broiler and broil for a couple of minutes, until the eggs are set but not dry. Sprinkle the cheese over the top and broil for another minute to melt the cheese. Cut the frittata into 4 wedges and serve hot.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 222; Fat: 8.3 g; Sodium: 690 mg; Cholesterol: 32 mg; Protein: 28 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 4 Lean Meat, 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

Pasta Party

I've loved pasta as long as I can remember. So it should be no surprise that I occasionally post some pasta recipes. Check out today's yumminess, including Restaurant-Style Spinach Manicotti and One-Pot Pasta Bolognese. Enjoy!

FETTUCCINE ALFREDO

This is from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 4 Servings. 1 Serving size = 1 cup. 1 cup fettuccine alfredo provides a 1/2 serving of Benecol®

Ingredients

2 tbsp. Benecol® Regular spread

4 to 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 1/4 cups skim milk

3 tbsp flour

4 ounces fat free cream cheese

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

4 cups hot cooked fettuccine noodles (about 1/2 pound uncooked)

Directions

Heat Benecol & garlic slowly over low heat, 5 to 7 minutes, allowing full flavor of garlic to be released into Benecol.

Meanwhile, combine milk, flour, cream cheese, & Parmesan cheese in blender; then puree until smooth.

Add pureed mixture to Benecol® and garlic. Increase heat to medium-low and whisk continuously until mixture has thickened. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Toss with fettuccine noodles.

PASTA WITH FRESH TOMATO SAUCE AND RICOTTA

This comes from David Tanis in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. David wrote, “This wonderful pasta is made with nothing more than fresh tomato sauce and good ricotta, plus a little pecorino. It’s most delicious if you keep the pasta quite al dente; use just enough sauce, no more; give it a good pinch of crushed red pepper; and season it with enough salt of course. For the best results, use good quality imported noodles made from hard Durum wheat.” Time: 30 minutes; makes 4 to 6 servings.

This, along with the Quick Fresh Tomato Sauce, was featured in “The Time Is Right to Make Tomato Sauce”, and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

1 pound dried pasta, such as farfalle or penne

Salt and pepper

2 tablespoons butter, softened

Crushed red pepper (optional)

2 1/2 cups Quick Fresh Tomato Sauce, warm (see recipe, which follows)

6 ounces ultra-fresh ricotta, at room temperature

Grated pecorino

Basil leaves, for garnish

Preparation

Cook the pasta in a large pot of well-salted water, making sure to keep it quite al dente.

Put butter in a wide deep skillet over medium heat. Add drained pasta to the pan and season with salt, pepper and crushed red pepper, if using.

Add tomato sauce gradually and stir to coat pasta, using only enough sauce for a light coating (you may not need the entire 2-1/2 cups).

Transfer pasta to a warm serving bowl and dot top with spoonfuls of ricotta. Sprinkle lightly with pecorino and garnish with a few torn basil leaves.

QUICK FRESH TOMATO SAUCE

This also comes from David Tanis in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. David wrote, “In August and September, when tomatoes are at their ripest, make a batch of fresh tomato sauce. At the market, look for the cracked, slightly bruised tomatoes sold at a discount. The flesh of the tomato should be dense, sweet and blood red. This makes a very fresh- and bright-tasting sauce in a manageable small batch. Take advantage of good tasty tomatoes and fill a few zip-top bags for the freezer.” Time: 30 minutes; makes about 2 1/ 2 cups.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

5 pounds tomatoes

3/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 garlic clove, halved

1 basil sprig

1 bay leaf

Preparation

Cut tomatoes in half horizontally. Squeeze out the seeds and discard, if you wish. Press the cut side of tomato against the large holes of a box grater and grate tomato flesh into a bowl. Discard skins. You should have about 4 cups.

Put tomato pulp in a low wide saucepan over high heat. Add salt, olive oil, tomato paste, garlic, basil and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to a brisk simmer.

Reduce the sauce by almost half, stirring occasionally, to produce about 2-1/2 cups medium-thick sauce, 10 to 15 minutes. Taste and adjust salt. It will keep up to 5 days in the refrigerator or may be frozen.

BEEF NOODLE SKILLET

This is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.

Active Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Level: Easy

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/beef-noodle-skillet-8053162.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons salted butter

1 yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground chuck

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon tomato paste

12 ounces egg noodles

2-1/2 cups beef broth

1 tablespoon grainy mustard

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

A few dashes Worcestershire sauce

1/3 cup sour cream

2 tablespoons heavy cream

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Directions

Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the ground chuck and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook the meat, crumbling as you go, until cooked through, about 5 minutes. Add the tomato paste and cook for about 30 seconds.

Add the noodles, broth, 1 cup hot water, the mustard, paprika and Worcestershire sauce. Give a big stir and bring to a simmer. Cover and allow everything to simmer, stirring occasionally and adding up to 1/2 cup more water if necessary, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, about 12 minutes. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream and cook for 1 additional minute or until the pasta is tender.

Remove from the heat. Sprinkle over the chives and serve directly from the pan.

ONE-POT PASTA BOLOGNESE

This comes from Betty Crocker, and starts off, "This flavorful one-pot pasta is rich, meaty and filling – perfect for a fast weeknight dinner the whole family will enjoy."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 35 minutes; Servings: 6

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 onions, diced (about 3 cups)

2 carrots, diced (about 1 cup)

1 teaspoon salt

1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef

1/4 cup canned Muir Glen™ organic tomato paste

1 can (28 oz) Muir Glen™ organic fire roasted diced tomatoes, undrained

1 carton (32 oz) Progresso™ beef broth

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1 lb uncooked spaghetti

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves

Instructions

In Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot. Cook onions, carrots and salt in oil 5 to 8 minutes or until softened. Add beef; cook 5 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until browned.

Stir in tomato paste and tomatoes. Stir in broth, pepper flakes and Italian seasoning; heat to simmering. Break pasta in half, then thoroughly rinse under cold water. Tuck pasta into simmering liquid, covering completely. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook 13 to 15 minutes or until pasta is soft and sauce is reduced slightly.

Top with Parmesan cheese and basil.

RESTAURANT-STYLE SPINACH MANICOTTI

This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Who says you need fancy restaurants for classic Italian dishes? Our Restaurant-Style Spinach Manicotti is a lighter version of your favorite baked pasta dish, so you can still enjoy this Italian dish, in moderation of course!"

Cook Time: 50 minutes; Serves: 7

To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Pastas/Restaurant-Style-Spinach-Manicotti.

Ingredients

1 (8-ounce) package manicotti shells (14 shells)

1 small onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 pound fresh mushrooms, diced

1 (32-ounce) container fat-free ricotta cheese

1 cup (4 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

1 egg

1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

1-1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups light spaghetti sauce

2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Cook the manicotti shells according to the package directions, omitting the salt; drain, rinse, drain again, and place in a large baking dish. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Coat a small saucepan with nonstick cooking spray. Add the onion and garlic and saute over medium heat until tender. Add the mushrooms and saute until brown.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, the egg, spinach, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Add the onion mixture; mix well.

Spoon the mixture into the manicotti shells (see Note), top with the spaghetti sauce, and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until heated through.

Note

To fill the shells, carefully place the cheese mixture in a large resealable plastic storage bag with a corner snipped off. Then you can just squeeze the filling into the manicotti shells, using the storage bag like a pastry bag. Simple, right?

Double-Post Tuesday

Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday (because, surprisingly, not everyone loves tacos). Today's offerings include Chicken A La King and Million Dollar Pasta Salad. Enjoy!

EASY ONE-POT TUNA CASSEROLE

This is from Campbell's, and begins, "The magic of this Easy One-Pot Tuna Casserole is that you add the pasta dry and it cooks right in the skillet! Saute some celery in butter for the first layer of flavor, add the soup, water and pasta and simmer! The pasta soaks up some of the creamy sauce for extra flavor. Add the tuna and sprinkle with a topping of cheese and crushed croutons- this Easy One-Pot Tuna Casserole couldn't be easier! Have some leftover turkey? Try this turkey version: Turkey Noodle Casserole."

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Serves: 5

To view this online, go to https://www.campbells.com/recipes/easy-one-pot-tuna-casserole/.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter

2 stalks celery, chopped (about 1 cup)

1 can (10.5 ounces) Campbell’s® Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup or 98% Fat Free Cream of Mushroom Soup

1-1/2 cups water

1 cup uncooked medium shell shaped pasta or rotini

2 cans (about 5 ounces each) solid white albacore tuna, drained

2/3 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (amount divided in recipe steps below)

1 cup seasoned croutons, crushed

Instructions

Heat the butter in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the celery and cook for 5 minutes or until tender-crisp.

Stir in the soup, water and uncooked pasta and heat to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Stir in the tuna and 1/3 cup cheese and cook until the mixture is hot. Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with the croutons and the remaining 1/3 cup cheese (the heat from the pasta mixture will melt the cheese).

CHICKEN A LA KING

This yumminess is from Laura Manzano at Simply Recipes. For this recipe, Laura wrote, "...(E)ating chicken à la king is like wrapping yourself with a warm blanket. It’s a dish I now make regularly, especially on cold nights—it’s quick comfort food, done nearly as quickly as the pot of white rice I like to serve it with. It’s also wonderful with egg noodles or served alongside biscuits or warm toast."

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Servings: 4

To view this online, as well as reading everything that Laura wrote about this, go to https://www.simplyrecipes.com/chicken-a-la-king-recipe-8414596.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)

1/2 stalk celery, diced (about 1/2 cup)

1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste

8 ounces white button mushrooms, sliced

1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste

1/4 cup sherry or dry white wine

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

3/4 cup heavy cream

2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken

1 (7-ounce) can pimentos, drained, patted dry, and diced (about 1/2 cup)

1/2 cup frozen peas

2 to 3 cups cooked white rice, for serving (optional)

Directions

In a medium to large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and celery, and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, 4 to 5 minutes.

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir to coat them in butter, and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are softened (they won’t necessarily brown, and that’s fine) and cooked down to about half their volume, about 5 minutes.

Add the sherry or white wine and stir frequently until the liquid has nearly evaporated, about 2 minutes. (If omitting the alcohol, skip this step.)

Sprinkle the flour over the skillet and stir until no dry pockets remain and the raw flour has slightly cooked, about 1 minute. Add the chicken broth and heavy cream and stir well.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to medium-low and let thicken and reduce slightly, about 5 minutes.

Add the cooked chicken, diced pimentos, and frozen peas (no need to defrost). Stir well and cook until chicken is heated through and peas are hot, 2 to 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve with rice, if desired.

Chicken à la king can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, add to a pan on the stove with a splash of water and cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes.

ALMOST WHITE CASTLE HAMBURGERS

This comes from Chef Doozer on the Genius Kitchen site. Time: 20 minutes; Serves: 12

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1-1/2 lbs ground chuck

1 (4 tablespoon) envelope onion soup mix

1 egg

1/2 teaspoon pepper

2 tablespoons water

1/3 cup breadcrumbs

24 small square dinner rolls

American cheese (optional)

pickle (optional)

Sauce

1/2 cup mustard

1/2 cup ketchup

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Hamburgers: Mix first 6 ingredients and press into an ungreased 10 by 15 inch jelly roll pan.

Prick with a fork.

Bake for 10 minutes.

Drain off juices (if there's a lot of excess).

Cool.

Cut into 24 squares.

Place squares on dinner rolls.

Combine mustard and ketchup and spread on rolls.

Top with pickles and cheese, if desired.

This makes 12 servings of 2 hamburgers each.

HOT CHICKEN CHILI

This is from Trisha Yearwood on the Food Network.

Active Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Level: Easy

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/trisha-yearwood/hot-chicken-chili-7943627.

Ingredients

1 cup vegetable oil

3 tablespoons cayenne pepper

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

2 teaspoons kosher salt

2 carrots, diced

1 yellow onion, diced

2 pounds ground chicken

Two 15.5-ounce cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

One 14-ounce can diced tomatoes

2 teaspoons hot sauce

1 cup chicken stock

1 cup sour cream

1/4 cup chopped pickles, for garnish

Directions

Stir together the oil, cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of salt in a small saucepan. Cook over low heat until the spices infuse the oil, 2 to 3 minutes.

Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Spoon 1/4 cup of the spiced oil into the pan. Add the carrots and onion and cook until the vegetables soften and start to brown, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the chicken and remaining 1 teaspoon salt and cook, breaking up the chicken with a wooden spoon, until browned, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the beans, tomatoes, hot sauce and 2 tablespoons more of the spiced oil. Stir together and bring to a boil. Pour in the stock. Return to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook, partially covered, stirring occasionally, until the chili is thickened, 15 to 20 minutes.

Ladle the chili into bowls. Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped pickles and a drizzle of the remaining hot oil.

>MILLION DOLLAR PASTA SALAD

This is from Kimberly Holland at Southern Living. For this recipe, Kimberly wrote, "Million dollar pasta salad is inspired by a dip of a similar tax bracket. Zesty, ranchy, and tangy, each bite feels like a combination of a classic BLT with fresh, well-balanced ranch dressing. The tomatoes, bell peppers, scallions, red onions, and fresh herbs add lots of texture in flavor. Mini penne pasta is the perfect size for each bite, allowing you to get a little bit of everything, but you can use another shape. Finishing it off, the bacon is crispy and adds a nice smokiness to the dish while the cheese rounds out the umami notes.

"This would be the perfect addition to a potluck, or serve with grilled chicken thighs, barbecue, or grilled burgers for the ultimate backyard cookout."

Active Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes; Servings: 14

To view this online, go to https://www.southernliving.com/million-dollar-pasta-salad-11771238.

Ingredients

1 (16 oz.) uncooked mini penne or penne pasta

1 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup whole buttermilk

1/4 cup dry ranch seasoning mix (from 2 [1 oz.] envelopes)

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp., plus 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (from 1 pt.)

10 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped (about 1-1/4 cups)

1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper (from 1 medium [9-oz.] pepper)

1/2 cup finely chopped red onion (from 1 small [4-oz.] onion)

1/2 cup chopped mixed fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, and dill)

1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions (from 2 scallions), plus more for garnish

6 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded, divided (about 1-1/2 cups)

Directions

Gather all ingredients.

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high. Cook pasta according to package directions until tender. Drain and rinse in a colander under cool running water; set aside.

Whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of the black pepper in a large bowl until smooth.

Stir in cooled pasta, tomatoes, bacon, bell pepper, onion, herbs, scallions, and 1 cup of the Cheddar until well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours.

Transfer pasta salad to a large bowl. Top with remaining 1/2 cup Cheddar and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; garnish with additional scallions.

MEXICAN PASTA

This is from allrecipes, and was submitted by someone named Mimi. The recipe begins, "Mexican pasta is a great vegetarian dish with a kick!"

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Serves: 4

To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/21518/mexican-pasta/.

Ingredients

1/2 pound seashell pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 onions, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1/2 cup sweet corn kernels

1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained

1 (14.5 ounce) can peeled and diced tomatoes

1/4 cup salsa

cup sliced black olives

1-1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix

salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.

While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Cook onions and bell pepper in oil until lightly browned, about 10 minutes.

Stir in corn and heat through. Stir in black beans, tomatoes, salsa, olives, seasoning mix, and salt and pepper and cook until thoroughly heated, about 5 minutes.

Toss sauce with cooked pasta and serve.

Taco Tuesday

Its time for another Taco Tuesday. Yay! Today's yummy offerings include Tacos con Puerco and Baja Shrimp Tacos With Creamy Slaw. Enjoy!

GARLICKY SHRIMP TACOS

This is from Kay Chun at The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Kay wrote, "A nod to gambas al ajillo, the immensely popular Spanish tapas dish of garlic prawns, this recipe tucks garlic shrimp into festive tacos that can be on the dinner table in 30 minutes. There are very few ingredients involved, but they all pack a punch. The quick-cooking shrimp are seared and finished in olive oil that’s infused with lots of fragrant garlic and rich smoky paprika. Be sure to save the robust oil that’s left in the skillet and enjoy it drizzled over your tacos. Dress them up with crisp sliced radishes, creamy avocado, spicy pico de gallo and fresh, herbaceous cilantro, plus a final squeeze of lime to brighten all the flavors."

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Yield: 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1025852-garlicky-shrimp-tacos. While you're at it, if you haven't already signed up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend it. Great recipes, guides, and more.

Ingredients

1/2 cup sour cream

1 tablespoon lime juice, plus wedges for serving

Salt

5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound peeled and deveined large shrimp (about 2 dozen)

2 tablespoons minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Warm corn tortillas, sliced avocado, sliced radishes, pico de gallo and cilantro leaves, for serving

Preparation

In a small bowl, combine sour cream and lime juice; season with salt. Mix well and set aside.

In a 12-inch skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high. Season shrimp with salt and add half to the skillet; sear for 1 minute on each side and transfer to a plate. Repeat with 1 tablespoon of the oil and the remaining shrimp.

Adjust heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons oil, the garlic and paprika to the skillet and stir until fragrant, 30 seconds. Add shrimp (and any accumulated juices) and cook, turning and basting, until opaque, just cooked through and nicely coated in the sauce, about 2 minutes. Transfer the shrimp and sauce to a shallow serving bowl.

To build tacos, pile a few shrimp in the center of each tortilla and drizzle with some of the garlic oil. Top with avocado, radishes, pico de gallo, cilantro and lime crema. Serve with lime wedges.

THAI-STYLE COCONUT CURRY CHICKEN TACOS

This is from Kay Chun at The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Kay wrote, "This weeknight chicken dish takes advantage of super flavorful jarred curry paste and pairs it with silky coconut milk to create a meal that comes together in just 20 minutes. Each step in this deceptively simple dish coaxes maximum flavor out of relatively few ingredients: Toasting the curry paste in the pan concentrates its taste, searing the chicken in the mixture ensures it's properly coated, and simmering in creamy coconut milk tenderizes the meat. A splash of lime juice and a spoonful of pico de gallo brighten and lighten the rich curry. Fold the mixture into tacos or try the curry chicken as a topping for grain bowls, cauliflower rice, sautéed broccoli or leafy greens."

Total Time: 25 minutes; Yield; 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019815-thai-style-coconut-curry-chicken-tacos. While you're at it, sign up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, if you haven't already. I highly recommend it. Great recipes, guides, and more.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons canola oil

3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced 1/4-inch thick

Salt and pepper

1/4 cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk

1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from approximately 2 limes), plus wedges for serving

1 large tomato, finely chopped (about 2 cups)

1/2 cup finely chopped red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems

8 (6-inch) corn tortillas

1 avocado, sliced (optional)

Preparation

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over low heat. Add the curry paste and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is softened, about 3 minutes. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook over medium heat, stirring, until no longer pink, 2 or 3 minutes.

Stir in the coconut milk and simmer until the sauce is thickened and the chicken starts to caramelize, about 15 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons lime juice.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, make the pico de gallo: Toss the tomato, onion, cilantro and the remaining 2 tablespoons lime juice; season with salt and pepper.

Divide the chicken mixture among the tortillas. Top with the pico de gallo and avocado, if using. Serve with lime wedges.

SPICY TURKEY TACOS

This is from Judy Kim on Delish and begins, “Thought ground turkey was blah? Think again.”

According to Delish, “Judy Kim is a NYC-based food stylist, recipe developer, and photographer. She also writes recipes for her website The Judy Lab.” Check out both Delish and The Judy Lab.

Total Time: 20 minutes; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 4

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

8 hard corn taco shells

1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 lb. ground turkey

4 tsp. Mexican seasoning

1 tsp. cayenne pepper

kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 onion, diced

1 c. crushed tomatoes

1/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish

1 c. grated mozzarella

1 c. Pico de Gallo

1 c. sour cream

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°. Place taco shells on a sheet pan.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil and add ground turkey; brown while breaking up with a wooden spoon. Season with Mexican seasoning, cayenne, salt and pepper.

Add garlic and onions; sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Add tomatoes and cilantro and stir until warmed through. Turn off heat and cover to keep warm.

Just before serving, bake taco shells until warmed through, about 2 minutes. Spoon spicy turkey mixture into taco shells and top with mozzarella, pico de gallo and cilantro. Serve with sour cream.

SWEET POTATO AND SPINACH CHICKEN TACOS

This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, "Unexpected taco fillings are all the rage on the food truck scene. Make these rich and savory versions at home!"

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 4; Serving Size: 1 taco

To view this online, go to https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/sweet-potato-and-spinach-chicken-tacos.html.

Ingredients

1-1/2 tbsp olive oil

1 clove garlic (minced)

24 oz. baby spinach

1 (about 8 oz) large sweet potato (peeled and diced)

1/4 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp black pepper

4 tbsp water

1 cup cooked shredded chicken

4 6-inch corn tortillas (warmed)

4 tsp light sour cream

1/2 cup pico de gallo or salsa

Directions

In a large nonstick pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the spinach and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes.

Add the sweet potato, cumin, black pepper, and water to the pan. Sauté for 2 minutes. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 8 minutes.

Add the chicken to the pan and mix to incorporate. Heat for 2 minutes.

Fill each tortilla with 1/4 of the chicken and sweet potato mixture. Top with 1 Tsp. of sour cream and 2 Tbsp. of pico de gallo.

BAJA SHRIMP TACOS WITH CREAMY SLAW

This is from Real Simple, and begins, " For these tacos, we took a couple extra steps to keep the batter for the fried shrimp light: 1) We cut the flour with a little cornstarch, which prevents it from getting tough (because cornstarch has no gluten), but you can substitute rice flour or arrowroot; and 2) Bubbles in the seltzer add air, so the batter stays crisp and light. Pro tip: Whisk your batter over an ice bath to preserve more seltzer bubbles, and then keep it cold until ready to use.

"A tangy cabbage slaw topping balances the richness of the fried shrimp, and then lime, hot sauce, and sliced scallions seal the deal."

Hands On Time: 25minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/baja-shrimp-tacos-creamy-slaw.

Ingredients

For the slaw:

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1-1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

3/4 teaspoon granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage (about 6 oz.)

2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage (about 6 oz.)

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the tacos:

Vegetable oil

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

3/4 cup seltzer or club soda

1 large egg white

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

8 6-in. flour tortillas, warmed

Lime wedges, hot sauce, and sliced scallions, for serving

Directions

Prepare the Slaw: Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and cayenne in a large bowl, add both cabbages and cilantro, and then toss to combine. Let stand at least 20 minutes.

Prepare the Tacos: Pour oil into a large heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of about 2 inches, affix with a deep-fry thermometer, and then heat over medium-high to 350°F.

Combine flour, cornstarch, and salt in a medium bowl, and then make a well in the center and whisk in seltzer and egg white until just combined.

Dredge a half-pound of shrimp in batter, shaking off excess, and then carefully lower into hot oil and fry, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes.

Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, and then repeat with remaining shrimp.

Divide shrimp evenly among tortillas and top with slaw, hot sauce, and scallions. Serve with lime wedges.

TACOS CON PUERCO

Recipe Yield: Yield: Serves 4

Source: NPB

Recipe and image appear courtesy of the National Pork Board.

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/tacos-con-puerco.

Ingredients

1 pound Ground Pork

1 (14-1/2 oz) can tomatoes, diced, fire-roasted

1/4 cup chopped onion

1 tablespoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

salt, to taste

black pepper, to taste

8 taco shells

2 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded

2 tomatoes, cut in wedges

1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions

In heavy skillet, brown ground pork; stir in undrained canned tomatoes, onion, chili powder and garlic powder.

Bring to boiling; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until most liquid evaporates, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Heat taco shells and portion filling into shells; top with tomatoes and lettuce.

Notes:

Set up the table for everyone to be able to assemble their own tacos. Remember to have salsa, sour cream, hot sauce, guacamole and other taco favorites for condiments.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 285; Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 4 g; Sodium: 238 mg; Cholesterol: 57 mg; Protein: 25 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g

Double-Post Monday

Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Beef Tortilla Casserole and Chef John’s Salisbury Steak. Enjoy!

ONE-PAN SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALLS

This recipe comes from Pure Wow, and begins, “Guys, this lazy cook's one-pan spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a total game changer. The next time you want to get dinner on the table with ease—and not deal with a million dirty dishes--we've got you covered.” Makes 8 servings.

To view this online, go to https://www.purewow.com/recipes/one-pan-spaghetti-and-meatballs-recipe.

Ingredients

Meatballs

1 pound ground beef

1-1/2 teaspoons garlic powder

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, whisked

1/2 cup plain bread crumbs

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Spaghetti

1 pound dried spaghetti

3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus more to taste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Make the Meatballs: In a medium bowl, mix the beef with the garlic powder, parsley and Parmesan to combine. Add the egg and bread crumbs, and mix to combine.

Form the mixture into balls, using about 2 tablespoons of meat per ball.In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the pan and cook until they are fully cooked and golden brown all over, 3 to 5 minutes.

Make the Spaghetti: Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside. Drain any grease from the pan, and then fill it with three inches of water and a few pinches of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add the spaghetti in an even layer and boil until al dente, 8 to 9 minutes (or according to package directions).

Drain the spaghetti, then return it to the pan. Add the marinara sauce and meatballs; toss to coat. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley. Serve warm, immediately.

APPLE PEANUT BUTTER GRANOLA BARS [VEGAN]

This is from One Green Planet, an animal-friendly website. This recipe begins, "This vegan apple flapjack recipe is super easy to follow but so tasty. These are perfect for an afternoon snack or as a post dinner dessert, so you’ve got to give these a go!"

Cooking Time: 30 minutes; Serves 16

To view this online, go to https://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-recipe/apple-peanut-butter-granola-bars-vegan/.

Ingredients

For the Granola Bars:

1 cup sunflower oil, (or melted coconut oil)

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup Lakanta Monk fruit sweetener (or substitute with low sugar sweetener or sugar)

1 cup ground oats (blend oats in a blender or just use wholewheat flour)

2 cups traditional oats

1/2 cup almond flour (optional- replace with ground oats or desiccated coconut instead)

1 1/2 tablespoon tahini (or smooth peanut butter)

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 apples, peeled and cored, 1 finely sliced and the other grated

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon vegan butter

1 teaspoon agave syrup or sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla essence

For the Drizzle:

1 tablespoon icing sugar, sifted

2 tablespoons plant milk (add more/less if needed)

1 tablespoon smooth peanut butter

Preparation

For the Granola Bars:

Preheat oven to 350°F and line a medium sized square baking tray with baking paper (mine is roughly 9x9 inch).

In a large bowl, whisk together sunflower oil (or melted coconut oil) , vanilla essence, tahini, sugar and monk fruit sweetener (if using).

In a separate bowl combine the ground oats, traditional oats, ground almonds, baking soda, and salt. Add the liquid mixture and stir to combine.

Place just over half of mixture into the prepared pan (should be roughly 3mm thickness). Even out by pressing the mixture with a metal spoon or with your fingers.Heat a sauce pan on medium heat and add the butter, cinnamon and agave syrup. Add both the chopped and grated apples. Add a few splashes of water if the pan is looking dry. Lower the heat and cover. Cook for a few minutes until the apples have softened.

Pour the apple puree on the flapjacks and evenly spread the mixture, but leave a bit of space from the edges.

Sprinkle on the remaining oat mixture and press down gently.

Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature.

For the Peanut Butter Drizzle:

Add 1 tablespoon of plant milk to the peanut butter in a microwave safe cup and stir with a mini whisk or fork.

Microwave for a few seconds on low heat if necessary to make the peanut butter mixture runnier.

Add the peanut sauce to the sifted icing sugar in a small bowl then stir. Add another tbsp of plant milk if necessary and stir until you have a slightly runny smooth mixture.

Once the flapjacks have completely cooled, drizzle the peanut butter icing over the flapjacks with a small spoon.

Cut into squares and serve.

MILLIONAIRE'S HAM

This recipe, from the Food Network, begins, "Humble ingredients make this slightly spicy and candied ham look like a million bucks."

Active Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 3 hours; Level: Easy; Yield: 10 to 12 servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

One 8-to-10-pound bone-in fully-cooked ham

3 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar

1 3/4 cups orange juice

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line the bottom and the rack of a roasting pan with foil. Place the rack inside the roasting pan.

With the fatty side facing down, use a sharp knife to cut 3/4-inch long diagonal lines about 1-inch deep all over the surface of the ham. Working in the opposite direction, cut more 3/4-inch long and 1-inch deep diagonal lines to create diamond shapes. Turn the ham over so the fatty side is facing up. Create the same diamond shape placing any pieces of ham that fall off back onto the ham. Place the ham, fatty-side up, on the rack and cook, rotating the pan halfway through, until warm in the center and the fat starts to crisp up, about 2 hours.

Meanwhile, mix 3 cups sugar, 3/4 cup orange juice, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 tablespoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl. Remove the ham from the oven and carefully brush one-third of the glaze all over the ham. Bake the ham for 20 minutes. Brush with another third of the glaze and bake for 20 minutes more. Brush the remaining third of the glaze over the ham and cook until the glaze is shiny and the skin is dark golden brown and crispy, about 30 minutes more.

Mix the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, 1 cup orange juice, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper and a generous amount of pepper in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce has reduced by about half, 7 to 8 minutes. Remove the ham from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board. Slice and serve with the sauce on the side.

COUNTRY PANZANELLA WITH WATERMELON DRESSING

This comes from Gabrielle E.W. Carter, and is adapted by Nicole Taylor and Yewande Komolafe in The New York Times cooking newsletter. For this recipe, Nicole and Yewande wrote, "Consumed plainly or with a salt sprinkle, fresh watermelon conjures warm-weather memories. In the U.S. (primarily in the American South), master gardeners are growing heirloom (seedful) varieties: sugar baby, jubilee and Georgia rattlesnake. In Apex, N.C., Gabrielle E.W. Carter is the new steward of the property once owned by her maternal great-grandfather, where she grows herbs, tomatoes and watermelon. As a multimedia artist, she is documenting the food ways of Black families in Eastern North Carolina and preserving cooking traditions using fruits and vegetables straight from the garden. Crimson-flesh watermelon transforms the classic panzanella with a balanced sweetness. Using a coarse grater is essential in achieving a vibrant, textured dressing. Bocconcini can be substituted for feta cheese in this salad, which pairs well with festive mains like dry-rub mushrooms and spicy tamarind pork ribs."

Yield: 8 to 10 servings (about 16 cups); Time: 30 minutes

This was featured in "Summer’s Greatest Prize: Watermelons, With Seeds, Please", and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1022283-country-panzanella-with-watermelon-dressing.

Note: The article that this was featured in makes some very interesting reading, especially for anyone who enjoys learning about the history of food. (Yes, there is such as thing!)

Ingredients

For the dressing:

1/2 pound piece of skin-on watermelon, seeds discarded

1/4 cup granulated sugar

Kosher salt

2 garlic cloves, peeled and grated

1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard

1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

1/2 teaspoon red-pepper flakes

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 cup white wine vinegar

1/2 cup olive oil

For the salad:

1/2 loaf day-old ciabatta, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 4 loose cups)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

2 pounds watermelon, rind discarded cut into 1-inch pieces (about 4 packed cups)

3 medium heirloom tomatoes (about 1 3/4 to 2 pounds), cut into 1-inch-wide wedges (about 5 loose cups)

1 medium seedless cucumber (about 1/2 pound), trimmed, halved lengthwise then sliced 1/4-inch-thick (about 2 cups)

1 small red onion (about 4 ounces), peeled and sliced (about 1 loose cup)

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1/2 cup crumbled feta

Preparation

Make the dressing: Using a coarse grater set over a medium bowl, grate the watermelon flesh then rind, grating the rind all the way to the skin. (You should have about 1 cup grated watermelon.) Discard the firm skin. Add the sugar and 1 teaspoon salt; stir to dissolve the sugar and salt grains. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 10 minutes.

Add the garlic, mustard, thyme leaves, red-pepper flakes, ground black pepper, vinegar and oil. Whisk together (or transfer to a mason jar, cover and shake vigorously). The dressing makes 2 cups, and will keep, refrigerated, up to 1 week; shake before use.

Make the salad: Heat the oven to 425 degrees. On a small sheet pan, toss the cubed bread, olive oil, thyme and sea salt together. Spread in a single layer and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until toasted and golden brown.

In a large serving bowl, combine the watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber and red onion. Drain any excess liquid before adding the toasted bread cubes and half the basil. Drizzle with 1/4 cup of the dressing and season with salt and pepper. Divide among individual bowls, if you like. Top with crumbled feta, remaining basil leaves and spoon additional dressing over the top.

BEEF TORTILLA CASSEROLE

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, “An enchilada dinner kit creates a hearty beef casserole that's in the oven in just 20 minutes.”

Prep Time: 20 Minutes; Total Time: 50 Minutes; Makes 6 servings

View this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/beef-tortilla-casserole.

Ingredients

1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 box (14.2 oz) Old El Paso™ enchilada dinner kit

1/2 cup water

1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)

Preparation

Heat oven to 350°F. In 10-inch skillet, cook beef and onion, stirring occasionally, until beef is thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in both pouches enchilada sauce (from dinner kit), the seasoning mix (from dinner kit), water and chiles; heat until hot.

In ungreased 11x7-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the beef mixture. Cut tortillas (from dinner kit) in half. Place 6 tortilla halves on beef; spread with 1/2 cup of the sour cream. Top with 1/2 cup of the cheese, 1 cup of the beef mixture and remaining 6 tortilla halves. Top with remaining sour cream, remaining beef mixture and remaining cheese.

Bake 30 minutes. If desired, serve with additional sour cream, diced red bell pepper and chopped fresh cilantro.

Expert Tips

Serve a tossed salad wtih fruity chunks of pineapple, mango or oranges.

CHEF JOHN'S SALISBURY STEAK

This is from Chef John at All Recipes. He wrote, "When I was a kid, we didn't have smartphones or the internet, all we had was a TV. But we didn't care because as we watched, we got to enjoy a little something called a "TV dinner." The king of those dinners, in my opinion, was the Salisbury steak, which is what I'll show you how to make here, along with one of the greatest gravies ever invented. Serve with buttered mashed potatoes and a vegetable side of your choice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Additional Time: 2 hours; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Makes 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/280901/chef-johns-salisbury-steak/.

Ingredients

For the Steaks:

1 pound 85% lean ground beef

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon dry mustard

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1 large egg, beaten

1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste

1/2 cup plain bread crumbs

For the Gravy:

2 tablespoons salted butter

12 large white button mushrooms, sliced

1 cup diced onion

1 pinch salt

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

3 cups high-quality, low-sodium beef broth

salt to taste

2 tablespoons salted butter

Directions

Combine beef, black pepper, dry mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire, soy sauce, egg, cayenne, and bread crumbs in a mixing bowl. Use a fork or your hands to stir the ingredients until very evenly distributed.

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours, or up to overnight.

While the meat is resting, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large nonstick pan over high heat; add mushrooms, onions, and a pinch of salt. Saute, stirring occasionally, until very nicely browned, 5 to 8 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and add flour. Cook and stir for 3 minutes.

Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth; increase heat to high. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens slightly and reduces, about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust salt as needed. Transfer to a glass measuring cup, scraping the pan clean with a spatula, and reserve.

Remove meat from the refrigerator and divide into 4 equal portions. Moisten hands and form into oval patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Season both sides of the patties lightly with salt.

Melt 2 tablespoons butter in the previously used nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook until browned, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Pour in gravy and bring to a simmer; reduce heat to medium and continue to cook until gravy is piping hot, and the meat is just cooked through and springs back lightly when touched, about 5 minutes.

Chef's Notes:

You can use the meat mixture immediately rather than wrapping and refrigerating.

You can make the meatballs round or in any shape you like.

Meatless Monday

It's time for another Meatless Monday. Here are today's yummy vegetarian recipes to help you through the day, including Winter Vegetable Medley with Paella-Style Orzo and Tofu and Spinach Stuffed Shells. Enjoy!

ROASTED VEGETABLE CHILI WITH CORNBREAD BISCUITS

This is from the Food Network. Active Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/roasted-vegetable-chili-with-cornbread-biscuits-3812231.

Ingredients

1 head cauliflower, cut into small florets

1 poblano chile pepper, seeded and diced

4 scallions, roughly chopped, plus more for topping

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 tablespoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Kosher salt

3/4 cup cornmeal

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar

4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed

2/3 cup cold buttermilk

2/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 15-ounce can black beans, undrained

1 8-ounce can tomato sauce

1 1/4 cups frozen fire-roasted corn, thawed

1 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

Directions

Preheat the broiler. Toss the cauliflower, poblano and scallions with the vegetable oil, chili powder, cumin and 1/2 teaspoon salt on a rimmed baking sheet; spread in a single layer. Broil until the vegetables are browned around the edges, 7 to 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, make the biscuits: Whisk the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, brown sugar and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Work the butter into the cornmeal mixture with your fingers until crumbly. Stir in the buttermilk and 1/3 cup cheese with a fork until combined.

Remove the baking sheet from the broiler and preheat the oven to 475 degrees F. Add the beans and their liquid, the tomato sauce, corn, vegetable broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the roasted vegetables and gently stir. Spoon the biscuit dough on top in 12 mounds, about 1 1/2 inches apart. Sprinkle the biscuits with the remaining 1/3 cup cheese.

Bake until the chili starts bubbling and the biscuits are golden and cooked through, 25 to 30 minutes. Sprinkle with scallions.

CHOCOLATE COCONUT MILK ICE CREAM

This is from the Taste For Life website. To view this online, go to https://tasteforlife.com/healthy-recipes/desserts/chocolate-coconut-milk-ice-cream.

Ingredients

3 cups unsweetened coconut milk

2/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder

8 Tbsp honey*

Vanilla extract to taste (optional)

Equipment

Ice-Cream Maker (optional)

Directions

Pour coconut milk in a large mixing bowl.

Add cocoa powder a small amount at a time, whisking until smooth each time.

Add honey and mix well.

Pour mixture in a 13 by 9 metal baking pan.

Freeze until firm, approximately 3 hours. Stir with a fork every 1/2 hour until frozen.

Notes

You can use an ice cream maker. Simply follow the directions on your appliance.

*This frozen delight can easily be vegan by replacing the honey with maple syrup.

ROOT VEGETABLE CHILI SOUP

This is from the September 2007 (?) issue of Vegetarian Times (page 76), and begins, "Root vegetables like rutabagas and carrots are great for spicy kitchen experiments because they lend subtle sweetness to dishes. Believe it or not, you can use curry powder in place of the chili powder here—the soup will have an Indian flair. Dishes that call for chili and curry powders get better over time, so make this dish a day ahead." Makes 4 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/root-vegetable-chili-soup/.

Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed

2 Tbs. canola oil

1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)

2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)

4 tsp. mild chili powder

2 tsp. ground cumin

2 small rutabagas, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (1 1/2 lb.)

2 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (1/2 lb.)

1 28-oz. can diced tomatoes

1 small russet potato, finely diced (1 cup)

2 Anaheim, banana, or mild peppers, seeded and chopped (3/4 cup)

1 small red bell pepper, chopped (2/3 cup)

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely diced, optional

1 15-oz. can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Preparation

Heat large pot over medium heat. Add corn, and sauté 2 minutes, or until beginning to brown. Add oil, onion, and garlic, and sauté 3 to 5 minutes, or until onion is soft. Stir in chili powder and cumin, and cook 2 minutes, scraping bottom of pan with spatula.

Add rutabagas, carrots, tomatoes, potato, Anaheim pepper, bell pepper, jalapeño, if using, and 3 cups water.

Bring pot to a simmer, and season with salt. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Add beans and cook, uncovered, 45 minutes, or until soup thickens. Serve garnished with green onions or cilantro.

PAPRIKA CAULIFLOWER PITA POCKETS

This is from the September 2007 (?) issue of Vegetarian Times (page 76), and begins, "Cauliflower, like paprika, is frequently undervalued in home kitchens. What better way to highlight them both than with this simple dish. Try topping with fresh tomatoes, chopped black olives, and some low-fat Parmesan cheese." Makes 4 servings; Time: 30 minutes

To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/paprika-cauliflower-pita-pockets/.

Ingredients

1 head cauliflower (2 lb.), cut into bite-size florets

3 Tbs. olive oil

2 Tbs. sweet Hungarian paprika

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. fine sea salt

1 small red onion, diced (1 cup)

1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)

1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth

2 Tbs. lemon juice

4 pita bread rounds, halved and warmed

Preparation

Steam cauliflower 7 to 9 minutes, or until tender.

Heat oil, paprika, pepper, and salt in nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, 2 minutes, or until fragrant, stirring constantly. Add onion and garlic, and sauté 2 minutes more. Stir in broth and cauliflower, and simmer 3 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in lemon juice. Serve with pita halves.

TOFU AND SPINACH STUFFED SHELLS

This comes from the April/May 2015 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 40. It begins, "Olive oil–poached garlic gives tofu a deep, mellow flavor, while miso and vinegar provide a cheese-like tang."

Makes 6 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/tofu-and-spinach-stuffed-shells/.

Ingredients

6 oz. jumbo pasta shells

12 cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced

1/4 cup olive oil

1 16-oz. block firm tofu, drained, rinsed, and patted dry

2 Tbs. unpasteurized apple cider vinegar

2 tsp. lemon juice

2 tsp. white miso

5 oz. baby spinach leaves (6 cups)

1 24-oz. jar prepared pasta sauce

2 Tbs. chopped Kalamata olives, optional

2 Tbs. chopped green olives, optional

Preparation

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain, rinse, and drain again, then place on clean kitchen towel to cool and dry.

Bring garlic and olive oil to a simmer in small skillet over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, and simmer 15 minutes, or until garlic is soft and golden. Remove from heat, and set aside.

Crumble tofu into bowl of food processor, and blend with vinegar, lemon juice, miso, garlic, and oil until smooth. Transfer to medium bowl.

Heat large saucepan over medium heat. Add spinach and 2 Tbs. water, and cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until leaves are wilted. Transfer to strainer, and squeeze out excess liquid. Roughly chop, and stir into tofu mixture.

Spoon 2 Tbs. filling into each pasta shell, and place in single layer in large baking dish. Cover with pasta sauce, sprinkle with olives (if using), and bake 45 minutes, or until sauce is bubbling. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

WINTER VEGETABLE MEDLEY WITH PAELLA-STYLE ORZO

This recipe, from Vegetarian Times, begins, "Good-quality saffron is the key to this dish." Makes 4 servings

This can be viewed online at https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/winter-vegetable-medley-with-paella-style-orzo/.

Ingredients

2 3/4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp. saffron threads

1 14.5-oz. can fire-roasted whole tomatoes, drained, liquid reserved, and tomatoes halved

2 Tbs. olive oil

1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 16 pieces

1 cup orzo pasta

1/4 cup frozen peas

2 cups large cauliflower florets

8 green onions, each cut into thirds

1 cup large broccoli florets

Directions

Bring broth to a simmer in saucepan. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, saffron, and tomato liquid. Season with salt and pepper, if desired, and keep hot.

Coat large skillet or 8-qt. Dutch oven with cooking spray, add oil, and heat over high heat. Add tomatoes, sear 2 to 3 minutes, or until browned and dry, and transfer to plate. Add bell pepper, sear 2 to 3 minutes, and transfer to same plate.

Sprinkle orzo into skillet, and stir 30 seconds. Stir in broth and peas, and reduce heat to medium. Arrange cauliflower florets on top of orzo in pot. Arrange green onions, tomatoes, and bell pepper pieces around cauliflower; cover, and simmer without stirring, 11 minutes. Scatter broccoli over vegetables, remove pot from heat, and let stand, covered, 10 minutes, or until orzo has absorbed all liquid and broccoli is crisp-tender.

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday. Yay! Here's hoping for a good weekend.

Of course, we do need to eat. To that end, here are six recipes to help you through the weekend, including Spicy Baked Sweet Potato Fries and Freezer Bag Chicken Fajita Stir-Fry. Enjoy!

CHICKEN FETTUCCINE ALFREDO

This is from the Food Network, and begins, "Homemade chicken fettuccine alfredo is a great dish to perfect at home and has the potential to be better than most restaurant versions. The sauce in this recipe magically comes together in the skillet, coating and clinging to the noodles just right and without the help of flour. Heavy cream is gently simmered, reducing and thickening it – and then it gets help from grated Parmesan. The sauce may seem too thin in the pan but once the chicken and cooked pasta are tossed with it the dish comes together nicely and the sauce finishes itself. Eat alfredo right away and be sure to save a little of the salted pasta water – you can stir splashes of it into the pasta if the sauce gets too thick as it sits."

Active Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-3364118.

Ingredients

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

12 ounces fettuccine

Olive oil, for tossing

12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2)

\1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter

2 cups heavy cream

2 pinches freshly grated nutmeg

1-1/2 cups freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

Directions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and salt generously. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (tender but still slightly firm). Drain and toss with a splash of oil.

Meanwhile, slice the chicken into 1/4-inch-thick strips, and lay them on a plate or a sheet of waxed paper. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of the butter. When the butter melts, raise the heat to medium-high and add the chicken in 1 layer. Cook, without moving the pieces, until the underside has browned, 1 to 2 minutes. Flip the pieces, and cook until browned and cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes more. Transfer the chicken to a medium bowl.

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 6 tablespoons butter. Scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. When the butter has mostly melted, whisk in the cream and nutmeg and bring to a simmer, then cook for 2 minutes. Lower the heat to keep the sauce just warm.

Whisk the Parmigiano-Reggiano into the sauce. Add the chicken and cooked pasta and toss well. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot in heated bowls.

Cook’s Note

Don't worry if it seems like there is too much sauce. As soon as everything is tossed together, the sauce will start to cling to the pasta and thicken before your eyes!

MEATLOAF

This is from Kay Chun in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Kay wrote, "Traditional meatloaf was created as a tasty way to use up leftover vegetables and to stretch meat further during lean times. This easy meatloaf recipe is a classic version, blending ground beef, pork and veal with simple pantry seasonings, but you should feel free to use your preferred combination of meat, such as half pork and half beef. Milk-soaked bread ensures a tender meatloaf, and baking it freeform — on a baking sheet instead of a loaf pan — provides more surface area for the tangy-sweet tomato glaze to caramelize as it bakes. Leftover slices can be crisped in a skillet and served with a salad or tucked into a sandwich. Alternatively, freeze one uncooked loaf for the next time you need to put dinner on the table with ease; simply thaw the night before and bake as directed."

Total Time: 1-1/2 hours; Yield: 6 to 8 servings (2 loaves)

To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1020853-meatloaf. While you're at it, if you haven't signed up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, I highly recommend doing so. Great recipes, guides, and more. Go ahead, I'll wait. (Tap, tap, tap.)

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing

1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 2 cups)

5 large garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

3 (1/2-inch-thick) slices white sandwich bread (about 3 ounces), torn into small pieces

2/3 cup whole milk

3 large eggs

1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf or curly parsley

2 tablespoons kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal) or 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt or fine salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme

3 pounds meatloaf mix (or any combination of ground beef, pork and/or veal)

For the Tomato Glaze

1/2 cup ketchup

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Chopped fresh parsley, for serving (optional)

Preparation

Make the meatloaf: Heat oven to 350 degrees and grease a rimmed baking sheet with oil. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Stir in tomato paste until well combined; let cool.

In a large bowl, combine bread and milk, and mash with a spoon until a paste forms.

Add eggs, parsley, salt, pepper, thyme and cooled onion mixture and mix until well blended.

Add the beef, pork and veal, and mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Divide mixture into 2 equal portions and shape each into a 4-by-8-inch meatloaf on the prepared baking sheet. (If you like, use an 8-inch loaf pan to shape each meatloaf before unmolding for baking.)

Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Use a spoon to spread mixture over the top and sides of each meatloaf.

Bake until nicely browned and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of meatloaf registers 160 degrees, 45 to 55 minutes. Let rest for 15 minutes before sprinkling the top with fresh parsley, if using, and slicing.

FREEZER BAG CHICKEN FAJITA STIR-FRY

This yumminess is from the Food Network, and begins, "This Mexican-inspired stir-fry is the perfect quick weekend project: peppers, onions and chicken are tossed with a chili-spiced oil and frozen."

Active Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes (plus freezing and defrosting time); Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/freezer-bag-chicken-fajita-stir-fry-3885886.

Ingredients

1/4 cup vegetable oil

2 tablespoons chili powder

2 teaspoons ground cumin

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips

1 green bell pepper, cut into thin strips

1 small red onion, thinly sliced

1-1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

12 small flour tortillas, warmed

Guacamole, salsa, sour cream and lime wedges, for serving

Directions

Whisk together the oil, chili powder, cumin, 1 teaspoon salt and several grinds black pepper in a large microwave-safe bowl. Add the garlic, peppers and onion and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Remove the plastic wrap and let cool completely.

Transfer the vegetables with the marinade to a large resealable plastic bag and add the chicken. Squeeze out most of the air and seal, then toss gently to coat the chicken with the marinade. Freeze until ready to use. Let thaw in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before cooking.

Pour the chicken, vegetables and marinade into a large skillet and heat over high heat. Cook, stirring often, until the chicken is cooked through, about 12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Divide the chicken and vegetables among 4 plates. Serve with 3 tortillas each and the guacamole, salsa, sour cream and lime wedges on the side.

Cook’s Note

Steam corn tortillas in the microwave so they stay pliable and don't split under the weight of taco fillings. Wrap a stack of tortillas in damp paper towels or a damp kitchen towel, then wrap in plastic wrap or place in a microwave-safe resealable plastic bag (keep the bag open to vent). Microwave until warm and flexible, about 1 minute.

SPICY BAKED SWEET POTATO FRIES

This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Chili powder gives our Spicy Baked Sweet Potato Fries the perfect kick, sure to get your gang excited about their new favorite side! Plus, using sweet potatoes instead of regular baking potatoes provides an added nutritional boost!"

Cook Time: 25 minutes; Serves: 6

To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Potatoes-Rice/Spicy-Baked-Sweet-Potato-Fries--6743.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon canola oil

2 teaspoons chili powder*

1 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper*

3 large sweet potatoes (about 2-1/2 pounds), peeled and cut lengthwise into thin wedges

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Coat rimmed baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with oil. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, salt, and ground red pepper. Sprinkle over the potato wedges and toss until evenly coated.

Spread the potato wedges in a single layer on the baking sheets.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and tender, turning once halfway through cooking time. Serve immediately.

Notes

To make this a gluten-free recipe, use nonstick cooking spray with no flour added, and seasonings with no added starch from a gluten-containing source.

If you're a fan of crispy fries, simply combine the seasonings with 2 beaten egg whites in a shallow dish. Coat the potato wedges with this mixture and bake as above. They'll crisp up in no time!

CHEESY HAMBURGER SKILLET

This is from Meghan Splawn at Simply Recipes. For this recipe, Meghan wrote, "A certain boxed hamburger meal was the very first meal I cooked by myself as a kid, and the combination of pasta, creamy tomato and cheese sauce, and beef will always hold a nostalgic allure for me.

"As my kids got older, I wanted to introduce them to this classic meal from my childhood. I knew my take on the nostalgic dish had to be as easy as a box and include a pound of ground beef. That’s how this one-skillet cheesy hamburger pasta came to be one of my family’s favorite recipes."

Makes 4 to 6 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.simplyrecipes.com/cheesy-hamburger-skillet-recipe-8752873.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound lean ground beef

2 teaspoons seasoned salt, like Lawry’s

1-1/2 cups beef broth

8 ounces dried pasta shells

1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, not drained

8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)

1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Directions

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Grab the largest one you own—a 12-inch straight-sided skillet with a lid is ideal, but a large cast iron works in a pinch if you’ve got a lid that works.

Add the oil followed by the beef, breaking the beef into pieces with a spatula. Cook the beef until is browned all the way through, about 4 minutes. Season the beef with the seasoned salt and sauté for about a minute more.

Add the beef broth, pasta shells, and canned tomatoes to the skillet and give it a few stirs to distribute everything evenly. Cover the skillet and cook until the broth mixture is thickened and the shells are tender, 8 to 12 minutes.

Turn off the heat and give the skillet a good stir. Add the cheese and pour in the cream and stir until the cheese is melted and creamy. Serve immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Simple Substitutions

Ultimately, this is a dinner built on some grocery basics and pantry staples, so here are some substitutions that customize this dinner to what is already in your fridge or cupboard:

Beef: Lean ground beef, such as ground sirloin, works really well here because of its beefy flavor. Plus the cheese and cream bring enough richness to this skillet. You can use ground turkey or chicken; I’ve even subbed bulk Italian sausage in a pinch.

Pasta: This dish really is best with small shells, but other short, dried pasta works as well. Macaroni elbows are a great second choice. If you use fusilli, orecchiette, or cavatappi noodles, they take a few extra minutes to cook.

Canned Tomatoes: Crushed, diced tomatoes and tomato sauce are all interchangeable here. No need to drain the diced tomatoes. Jarred marinara sauce can also be used; just use less salt for seasoning.

Seasoned salt: Your favorite seasoned salt probably works here. I love Beautiful Briny Sea’s Magic Unicorn Salt for this, but Lawry’s is also perfect. If you don’t have any on hand, you can also sub 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.

Cheese: This recipe calls for a whole 8-ounce block or about 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. High-quality pre-shredded cheeses, like Tillamook and Cabot, work if you don’t have the energy to grate the block yourself. You can also swap the cheddar cheese for other melty cheese like Monterey Jack or provolone.

HOMEMADE SLOPPY JOES

This yumminess is from John Mitzewish - aka Chef John - on allrecipes. For this recipe, Chef John wrote, "Homemade Sloppy Joes don't have to be difficult to eat. Despite the name of this iconic retro dish, the secret to a great Sloppy Joe is a thick, rich, almost dry consistency, which allows the sandwich to be eaten with your hands. Serve on hamburger buns."

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 55 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr 10 minutes; Servings: 6

To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/220182/homemade-sloppy-joes/.

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds extra-lean ground beef

1/2 onion, diced

1 green pepper, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups water, divided

3/4 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1-1/2 teaspoons salt, or to taste

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 dash Worcestershire sauce

1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste

Directions

Gather all ingredients.

Place ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir until beef is browned and crumbled, about 10 minutes.

Stir in green pepper and garlic; cook and stir until softened, 2 to 3 minutes.

Add 1 cup water and stir, scraping the pan to dissolve any brown flavor bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.

Add remaining 1 cup water and bring mixture to a boil.

Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until liquid has evaporated and mixture is thick, about 40 minutes.

Season with salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. Serve and enjoy!