Is there anything better than Friday, with the weekend ahead? A three-day weekend, of course! With Labor Day on Monday, most of us in the U.S. feel like it's the end of summer. Here are some recipes to get you through the weekend. Enjoy!
PLUM AND ROSEMARY JAM
This comes from Seattle's Macrina Bakery. If you aren't on their emailing list, you really should sign up. And if you're ever in Seattle, stop by. I know that if I'm ever on a road trip that way, I soooo plan to stop in!
The recipe starts off, “Savory jams often take a backseat to their sweet counterparts, but they add an unexpected thrum of flavor to everyday dishes. For an easy appetizer, spread this Plum & Rosemary Jam on a toasted wedge of our Pizza Bianca or layer it on our Seeded Sardinian Flatbread with your favorite cheese. As a topping for a juicy lamb burger or roasted pork sandwich, this jam is a game-changer. If using Italian plums instead of red plums, be sure to use less sugar to accommodate the sweetness of the fruit.” Makes 1/2 cup.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon pure olive oil
1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon finely chopped red onion
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground coriander seed
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/2 cups pitted plums, medium dice
1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
Preparation
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil, onion, ginger and coriander. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
Add the vinegar, brown sugar and plums and cook for 20 to 25 minutes over low heat to reduce the moisture from the plums. During the last 5 minutes of cooking time, stir the rosemary into the plum mixture.
Remove the pan from heat and let the jam cool to room temperature. Transfer jam to an airtight container and store in refrigerator for up to 10 days.
PUMPKIN SPICE WHOOPIE PIES
From Food.com. Prep time: 30 minutes, total time: 45 minutes, Yield: 12-18 sandwiched cookies
The person who wrote this for Food.com wrote, "Whoopie Pies are big sandwiched cookie. These are a hit with kids and adults alike. I prefer mine frozen!"
Ingredients
Cookies
1 cup pumpkin
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 package spice cake mix (2 layer size)
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
Marshmallow Spice filling
1/2 cup butter
1 (8 ounce) packages softened cream cheese
2 cups powdered sugar
3 1/2 ounces marshmallow cream ( half of a 7 oz jar)
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Directions
Cookies: Beat pumpkin and butter with an electric mixer until smooth.
Add cake mix, eggs and milk and beat on low speed until combined, then on medium speed for one minute.
Cover cookie sheets with parchment or oiled foil.
Drop large mounds of dough 3 inches apart on cookie sheet.
Bake for 15 minutes at 375 degrees F.
Filling: Beat together butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, marshmallow cream, vanilla and cinnamon and nutmeg. Beat until well combined. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes or until cookies are ready to be filled.
When cookies are cool, spoon filling on bottom of cookies and sandwich together.
Nutrition Facts: Serving Size: 1 (1549 g); Servings Per Recipe: 1; Amount Per Serving % Daily Value: Calories 477.2; Calories from Fat 250 52%; Amount Per Serving % Daily Value: Total Fat 27.7g 42%; Saturated Fat 15.0g 75%; Cholesterol 93.9mg 31%; Sugars 40.2 g; Sodium 444.8mg 18%; Total Carbohydrate 54.1g 18%; Dietary Fiber 0.7g 2%; Sugars 40.2 g 161%; Protein 4.3g 8%
AUTUMN SQUASH CASSEROLE
Ingredients
1 stick of butter, melted
1 onion, chopped
5 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 1/2 cups orange juice
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 tsp cinnamon
Directions
Place the butter, onion, squash and orange juice in the slow cooker. Cook on Low for 6 to 10 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours. Add the cinnamon and maple syrup. Using a potato masher, mash the ingredients. Mix until smooth and serve warm.
CLASSIC BLUEBERRY PIE
Another recipe from Macrina Bakery. The recipe starts out, “Few things in life are as wonderful as homemade blueberry pie. It is heaven on earth! I recommend using slightly tart organic blueberries whenever possible.”
Makes one 9-inch double-crusted pie
7 cups (3-1/2 pints) organic blueberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar
2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour
One top and bottom pie crust, chilled
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Egg wash made with 1 egg and 1 teaspoon water
Coarse raw sugar
Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Sort through the blueberries, removing any stems and leaves. Gently rinse the berries and lay them out on paper towels to air dry.
Combine 3-1/2 cups of the blueberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon zest, cinnamon, vanilla extract and flour in a medium saucepan. Mix with a spoon. Cook over medium heat until the fruit juices have been released and the mixture has thickened, 5 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently to keep the mixture from burning. Pour the cooked fruit into a large stainless steel bowl and add the remaining blueberries. Stir with a spoon and set aside until the fruit has cooled to room temperature.
Divide the chilled pie dough into 2 pieces, making one piece slightly larger than the other. Coat your hands with flour and shape the larger piece of dough into a ball. Working on a floured surface, flatten the ball slightly, then roll it into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick. Fit the rolled dough into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the edges of the dough to leave a 1-inch overhang around the pan. Roll out the remaining piece of dough 1/8-inch thick and trim it into a 10-inch circle. Set aside. This will be the top crust.
Pour the cooled fruit into the pie shell and dot with butter. Brush the top side of the overhanging dough with a little egg wash. Lift the top crust onto the pie, folding it in half to make it easier to accurately position. Lift the overhanging dough onto the top crust and crimp with your fingers. Mark the crimped edges with a fork, then brush all of the crust with egg wash. Sprinkle with coarse raw sugar and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the pie on the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife cut 4 slits in the center of the crust. Bake pie for 50 to 55 minutes. The crust will be golden brown and the fruit will be bubbling in the center of the pie. Let cool for 30 to 40 minutes. Serve with vanilla ice cream.
RASPBERRY-LEMONADE SORBET
From the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 73. The recipe starts off, “
Extra-lemony and not too sweet, this is an easy sorbet to whip up year-round with frozen raspberries. Try the recipe with blueberries, blackberries, or cherries as well.” Makes one quart.
5 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup lemon juice
Purée raspberries in blender or food processor until no whole fruit remains. Press purée through fine sieve, and discard seeds. (You should have 2 cups.)
Stir 1/2 cup water into sugar in saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Remove from heat, and stir in lemon juice. Stir sugar mixture into raspberry purée.
Chill mixture in refrigerator until cold, then churn in ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Transfer to 1-quart container, and freeze.
nutritional information Per 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 141; Protein: less than 1 g; Total Fat: less than 1 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 35 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 1 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 29 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
FIESTA SLAW
Makes 10 servings. Find online here.
Ingredients
5 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
3 Tbsp. reduced-fat mayonnaise
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tsp. canned chipotle chilies, rinsed, drained and chopped
1 Tbsp. honey
1 large red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
1 large green bell pepper, cut into thin
1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips
12 oz. jicama, peeled, cut into thin strips
1/3 cup (packed) fresh cilantro leaves, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Puree first 5 ingredients in a blender or food processor until dressing is smooth.
Place peppers, jicama and cilantro in a large bowl. Add dressing and toss to mix and coat well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until the vegetables soften a little but remain crunchy. (About 4 hours.)
Serve at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 42; Protein: 1 g; Sodium: 42 mg; Fat: under 1 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable
Friday, August 29, 2014
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Diabetic Thursday
By now, you've no doubt read (on this blog, per chance?) that diabetic food does not have to be boring by any stretch of the imagination. Here's another round of recipes to prove that. Enjoy!
CREAMY CAULIFLOWER PUREEYield: 4 servings
Serving size: 3/4 cup
Source: The Eating Well Diabetes Cookbook
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/87.shtml
Online Recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/629.shtml
Ingredients
8 cups bite-size cauliflower florets (about 1 head)
4 cloves garlic, crushed and peeled
1/3 cup buttermilk or equivalent buttermilk powder
4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon butter
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Freshly ground pepper to taste
Snipped fresh chives for garnish
Directions
Place cauliflower florets and garlic in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover and steam until very tender, 12 to 15 minutes. (Alternatively, place florets and garlic in a microwave-safe bowl with 1/4 cup water, cover and microwave on High for 3 to 5 minutes.)
Place the cooked cauliflower and garlic in a food processor. Add buttermilk, 2 teaspoons oil, butter, salt and pepper; pulse several times, then process until smooth and creamy.
Transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 2 teaspoons oil and garnish with chives, if desired. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 108; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 342 mg; Cholesterol: 3 mg; Dietary Fiber: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1-1/2 Fat
ORANGE CRANBERRY BREAD
Yield: 1 loaf (18 slices)
Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml
Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/412.shtml
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 medium orange
2 teaspoons margarine, melted
1 large egg, beaten, or 1/4 cup egg substitute
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Cut aluminum foil to fit the bottom of a 9x5-inch loaf pan and spray the sides of the pan with nonstick pan spray.
Sift the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl.
Grate the zest from the orange and set aside. Cut the orange in half and squeeze the juice into a measuring cup. Add the grated zest and melted margarine to the juice and add enough hot water to make 1 cup.
Stir the liquids into the dry ingredients. Add the egg, vanilla, cranberries, and walnuts; stir to mix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the top of the loaf comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack.
If time permits, let stand overnight for easy slicing. Cut the loaf into 18 slices.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 108; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Cholesterol: 12 g; Sodium: 109 mg; Fat: 3 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat
FRESH CRANBERRY AND WILD RICE STUFFING
This recipe, from Diabetic Gourmet, can be found online at http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/184.shtml. This is for 4 servings.
Ingredients
1/2 cup wild rice, uncooked
1 cup water
1/4 cup raisins, dark or golden
5 scallions, chopped
1 tablespoon canola oil
1/2 cup celery, or fennel bulb, chopped
1 cup fresh cranberries
1 tablespoon orange rind-grated
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Directions
Put the wild rice in a saucepan.
Add the water and raisins and cook over medium heat for 1 hour, or until the rice is tender. Drain.
Saute the onions and celery (or fennel bulb) in the oil until tender.
Add the cranberries, orange rind, thyme and rice.
Serve as a side dish; this stuffing goes great with poultry dishes such as cornish game hen, as well as lighter pork dishes such as pan seared pork loin.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 135; Sodium: 111 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Exchanges: 2 Starch/Bread
ROASTED POTATOES WITH GARLIC AND ROSEMARY
Yield: 8 to 12 wedges (4 servings)
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/804.shtml
Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml
Ingredients
2 large baking potatoes or 3 medium potatoes (1-1/4 pounds total), each cut in 4 wedges
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed rosemary
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a shallow dish or pan with nonstick pan spray.
Arrange potato wedges in the prepared pan. Combine the oil, garlic, rosemary, and salt in a small bowl. Brush the potatoes lightly with the oil mixture.
Bake until tender and golden brown, about 1 hour, basting with oil from the pan every 15 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 136; Protein: 3 g; Sodium: 155 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 1/2 Fat
BAKED POTATO PANCAKES
Found online at http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/436.shtml Makes about 16 pancakes or 8 servings.
Ingredients
Canola oil cooking spray
6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes peeled
2 large carrots, scraped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, finely minced
1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped
2 large eggs, beaten
1 Tbsp. canola oil
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
reduced-fat sour cream or applesauce (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spray large non-stick baking sheet with oil spray. Coarsely grate potatoes and carrots. Place them in large sieve. Set sieve into a large bowl so it nestles securely. Squeeze vegetables to wring out as much liquid as possible. If vegetables still feel wet, pat dry with paper towels, then transfer them to a mixing bowl. Stir in flour, parsley, onion, eggs, oil, salt and pepper, making sure ingredients are well combined.
Spoon small mounds of the mixture on the baking sheet to form 2 1/2-inch pancakes, leaving 1 inch between each. Bake latkes until golden brown, 6 to 8 minutes per side, turning once with spatula. Pancakes can also be made in a pan, preferably non-stick, with a light coating of canola oil spray on the bottom. Heat pan to high, then reduce to medium or medium-high heat. Transfer cooked pancakes to warm plates or a serving platter and serve at once. If desired, serve with low-fat sour cream or applesauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 251; Protein:6 g; Sodium: 185 mg; Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 50 g; Exchanges: 3-1/2 Starch/Bread, 1 Lean Meat
SUMMER GARDEN PILAF
Yield: 7 servings; Serving size: 3/4 cup
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/784.shtml
Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/60.shtml
Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or canola oil
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (1/3-inch dice) zucchini
1 cup fresh or frozen whole kernel corn
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
3 cups cooked brown rice
Scant 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
Place the oil in a large deep nonstick skillet and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini, corn, red bell pepper, onion, and oregano. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Periodically place a lid over the skillet if it becomes too dry. (The steam released from the cooking vegetables will moisten the skillet.)
Add the rice and salt to the skillet mixture and reduce the heat to medium. Cook, stirring frequently, for a couple of minutes, until the mixture is heated through. Add a tablespoon or two of water if the mixture seems too dry. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 140; Protein: 3.3 g; Sodium: 138 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Fat: 2.9 g; Saturated Fat: 0.4 g; Dietary Fiber: 2.7 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Exchanges: 1-1/4 Starch, 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat
CREAMY CAULIFLOWER PUREEYield: 4 servings
Serving size: 3/4 cup
Source: The Eating Well Diabetes Cookbook
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/87.shtml
Online Recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/629.shtml
Ingredients
8 cups bite-size cauliflower florets (about 1 head)
4 cloves garlic, crushed and peeled
1/3 cup buttermilk or equivalent buttermilk powder
4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon butter
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Freshly ground pepper to taste
Snipped fresh chives for garnish
Directions
Place cauliflower florets and garlic in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover and steam until very tender, 12 to 15 minutes. (Alternatively, place florets and garlic in a microwave-safe bowl with 1/4 cup water, cover and microwave on High for 3 to 5 minutes.)
Place the cooked cauliflower and garlic in a food processor. Add buttermilk, 2 teaspoons oil, butter, salt and pepper; pulse several times, then process until smooth and creamy.
Transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 2 teaspoons oil and garnish with chives, if desired. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 108; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 342 mg; Cholesterol: 3 mg; Dietary Fiber: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1-1/2 Fat
ORANGE CRANBERRY BREAD
Yield: 1 loaf (18 slices)
Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml
Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/412.shtml
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 medium orange
2 teaspoons margarine, melted
1 large egg, beaten, or 1/4 cup egg substitute
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Cut aluminum foil to fit the bottom of a 9x5-inch loaf pan and spray the sides of the pan with nonstick pan spray.
Sift the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl.
Grate the zest from the orange and set aside. Cut the orange in half and squeeze the juice into a measuring cup. Add the grated zest and melted margarine to the juice and add enough hot water to make 1 cup.
Stir the liquids into the dry ingredients. Add the egg, vanilla, cranberries, and walnuts; stir to mix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the top of the loaf comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack.
If time permits, let stand overnight for easy slicing. Cut the loaf into 18 slices.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 108; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Cholesterol: 12 g; Sodium: 109 mg; Fat: 3 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat
FRESH CRANBERRY AND WILD RICE STUFFING
This recipe, from Diabetic Gourmet, can be found online at http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/184.shtml. This is for 4 servings.
Ingredients
1/2 cup wild rice, uncooked
1 cup water
1/4 cup raisins, dark or golden
5 scallions, chopped
1 tablespoon canola oil
1/2 cup celery, or fennel bulb, chopped
1 cup fresh cranberries
1 tablespoon orange rind-grated
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Directions
Put the wild rice in a saucepan.
Add the water and raisins and cook over medium heat for 1 hour, or until the rice is tender. Drain.
Saute the onions and celery (or fennel bulb) in the oil until tender.
Add the cranberries, orange rind, thyme and rice.
Serve as a side dish; this stuffing goes great with poultry dishes such as cornish game hen, as well as lighter pork dishes such as pan seared pork loin.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 135; Sodium: 111 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Exchanges: 2 Starch/Bread
ROASTED POTATOES WITH GARLIC AND ROSEMARY
Yield: 8 to 12 wedges (4 servings)
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/804.shtml
Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml
Ingredients
2 large baking potatoes or 3 medium potatoes (1-1/4 pounds total), each cut in 4 wedges
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed rosemary
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a shallow dish or pan with nonstick pan spray.
Arrange potato wedges in the prepared pan. Combine the oil, garlic, rosemary, and salt in a small bowl. Brush the potatoes lightly with the oil mixture.
Bake until tender and golden brown, about 1 hour, basting with oil from the pan every 15 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 136; Protein: 3 g; Sodium: 155 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 1/2 Fat
BAKED POTATO PANCAKES
Found online at http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/436.shtml Makes about 16 pancakes or 8 servings.
Ingredients
Canola oil cooking spray
6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes peeled
2 large carrots, scraped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, finely minced
1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped
2 large eggs, beaten
1 Tbsp. canola oil
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
reduced-fat sour cream or applesauce (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spray large non-stick baking sheet with oil spray. Coarsely grate potatoes and carrots. Place them in large sieve. Set sieve into a large bowl so it nestles securely. Squeeze vegetables to wring out as much liquid as possible. If vegetables still feel wet, pat dry with paper towels, then transfer them to a mixing bowl. Stir in flour, parsley, onion, eggs, oil, salt and pepper, making sure ingredients are well combined.
Spoon small mounds of the mixture on the baking sheet to form 2 1/2-inch pancakes, leaving 1 inch between each. Bake latkes until golden brown, 6 to 8 minutes per side, turning once with spatula. Pancakes can also be made in a pan, preferably non-stick, with a light coating of canola oil spray on the bottom. Heat pan to high, then reduce to medium or medium-high heat. Transfer cooked pancakes to warm plates or a serving platter and serve at once. If desired, serve with low-fat sour cream or applesauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 251; Protein:6 g; Sodium: 185 mg; Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 50 g; Exchanges: 3-1/2 Starch/Bread, 1 Lean Meat
SUMMER GARDEN PILAF
Yield: 7 servings; Serving size: 3/4 cup
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/784.shtml
Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/60.shtml
Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or canola oil
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (1/3-inch dice) zucchini
1 cup fresh or frozen whole kernel corn
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
3 cups cooked brown rice
Scant 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
Place the oil in a large deep nonstick skillet and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini, corn, red bell pepper, onion, and oregano. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Periodically place a lid over the skillet if it becomes too dry. (The steam released from the cooking vegetables will moisten the skillet.)
Add the rice and salt to the skillet mixture and reduce the heat to medium. Cook, stirring frequently, for a couple of minutes, until the mixture is heated through. Add a tablespoon or two of water if the mixture seems too dry. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 140; Protein: 3.3 g; Sodium: 138 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Fat: 2.9 g; Saturated Fat: 0.4 g; Dietary Fiber: 2.7 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Exchanges: 1-1/4 Starch, 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Week day recipes
A few more end-of-summer recipes. Enjoy!
WATERMELON-RASPBERRY GRANITA
From the Food Network Kitchens. Total Time: 4 hr 25 min; Prep: 15 min; Inactive: 4 hr; Cook: 10 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy; Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/watermelon-raspberry-granita.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
1 pint raspberries
1/2 cup sugar
4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
Juice of 1 lime
Directions
Combine the raspberries, sugar and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries have completely broken down, about 6 minutes.
Press the raspberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a blender; let cool completely. Add the watermelon and lime juice and puree until smooth. Pour the mixture into an 8-inch-square stainless-steel or glass baking dish.
Freeze until ice crystals begin forming around the edges, about 45 minutes. Use a fork to scrape the crystals toward the center of the pan, then continue freezing, scraping every 30 minutes, until frozen, about 4 hours.
KOOL-AID FIZZY FLOAT
Yield: 8 servings Serving Size: 1 (8 oz.) drink
Found online at http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1110.shtmlIngredients
1 quart cold water
2 cups light white grape juice, chilled
1 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated
1 package your favorite flavor Kool-Aid Unsweetened Soft Drink Mix
2 cups seltzer water, chilled
2 cups no-sugar-added light vanilla ice cream
Directions
Combine water, grape juice, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and Kool-Aid Soft Drink Mix in a pitcher, stirring until Splenda Granulated Sweetener dissolves.
Pour 3/4 cup of the mixture into each of 8 tall glasses; add 1/4 cup of the seltzer to each glass.
Top each serving with 1/4 cup of the ice cream. Serve immediately.
Store leftover prepared drink in refrigerator.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 70; Calories from Fat: 20; Protein: 2 g; Sodium: 85 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Fat: 2.5 g; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g
FIESTA SLAW
Makes 10 servings. Find online here.
Ingredients
5 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
3 Tbsp. reduced-fat mayonnaise
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tsp. canned chipotle chilies, rinsed, drained and chopped
1 Tbsp. honey
1 large red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
1 large green bell pepper, cut into thin
1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips
12 oz. jicama, peeled, cut into thin strips
1/3 cup (packed) fresh cilantro leaves, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Puree first 5 ingredients in a blender or food processor until dressing is smooth.
Place peppers, jicama and cilantro in a large bowl. Add dressing and toss to mix and coat well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until the vegetables soften a little but remain crunchy. (About 4 hours.)
Serve at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 42; Protein: 1 g; Sodium: 42 mg; Fat: under 1 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable
TOMATO AND MINT TABBOULEH
Yield: 12 side-dish servings
Online Recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/695.shtml
Source: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/48.shtml
Ingredients
1-1/2 cups bulgur wheat
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1-1/2 cups boiling water
1 pound ripe tomatoes (3 medium), cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium cucumber (8 ounces), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3 green onions, chopped
3/4 cup loosely packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
1/2 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
Directions
In medium bowl, combine bulgur, lemon juice, and boiling water, stirring to mix. Let stand until liquid has been absorbed, about 30 minutes.
To bulgur mixture, add tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, parsley, mint, oil, salt, and pepper, stirring to mix. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour to blend flavors or up to 4 hours.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 87; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 157 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 17 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch/Bread
CHERRY TOMATO FOCACCIA
This is from the July/August 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 61. The recipe starts out with, “This bread is hearty enough to be served with a salad for a light lunch or supper.” Serves 8.
Topping
1/4 cup shelled roasted pistachios
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1/2 tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary
2 cups heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved
Focaccia
3 1/2 cups bread flour
1 Tbs. sugar
2 1/2 tsp. instant yeast
2 tsp. salt
Olive oil, for greasing baking sheet
To make Topping: Pulse pistachios in food processor until ground, but with some larger pieces. Transfer to bowl, and stir in olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
To make Focaccia: Stir together flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and 1 1/4 cups water in bowl. Knead dough in bowl 5 minutes. Cover bowl with towel, and let rise 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Generously grease rimmed baking sheet with olive oil. Stretch dough into 12- x 11-inch rectangle in sheet pan. Let dough rise 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 450°F. Dimple dough with fingers. Whisk 2 Tbs. water into pistachio mixture, and brush onto dough. Press tomato halves cut-side up into dough. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and bottom.
nutritional information Per Slice: Calories: 329; Protein: 9 g; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 48 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 589 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 3 g; Vegan
SPINACH AND ONION SOUP
Yield: 4 servings
Online Recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html.672.shtml
Source: Great Healthy Food - Diabetes
Ingredients
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
3-3/4 cups vegetable stock
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper
2/3 cup white wine
6 cups leaf spinach
Directions
Heat the oil in a saucepan and fry the onions for about 5-8 minutes over low heat, until they have softened.
Pour in the stock and bring to a boil. Add the bay leaf and the seasonings. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
Pour in the wine and add the spinach. Continue to cook, but only until the spinach has wilted slightly.
Remove the bay leaf and serve hot.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 141; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 1011 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1 Fat
WATERMELON-RASPBERRY GRANITA
From the Food Network Kitchens. Total Time: 4 hr 25 min; Prep: 15 min; Inactive: 4 hr; Cook: 10 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy; Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/watermelon-raspberry-granita.print.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
1 pint raspberries
1/2 cup sugar
4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
Juice of 1 lime
Directions
Combine the raspberries, sugar and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries have completely broken down, about 6 minutes.
Press the raspberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a blender; let cool completely. Add the watermelon and lime juice and puree until smooth. Pour the mixture into an 8-inch-square stainless-steel or glass baking dish.
Freeze until ice crystals begin forming around the edges, about 45 minutes. Use a fork to scrape the crystals toward the center of the pan, then continue freezing, scraping every 30 minutes, until frozen, about 4 hours.
KOOL-AID FIZZY FLOAT
Yield: 8 servings Serving Size: 1 (8 oz.) drink
Found online at http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1110.shtmlIngredients
1 quart cold water
2 cups light white grape juice, chilled
1 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated
1 package your favorite flavor Kool-Aid Unsweetened Soft Drink Mix
2 cups seltzer water, chilled
2 cups no-sugar-added light vanilla ice cream
Directions
Combine water, grape juice, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and Kool-Aid Soft Drink Mix in a pitcher, stirring until Splenda Granulated Sweetener dissolves.
Pour 3/4 cup of the mixture into each of 8 tall glasses; add 1/4 cup of the seltzer to each glass.
Top each serving with 1/4 cup of the ice cream. Serve immediately.
Store leftover prepared drink in refrigerator.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 70; Calories from Fat: 20; Protein: 2 g; Sodium: 85 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Fat: 2.5 g; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g
FIESTA SLAW
Makes 10 servings. Find online here.
Ingredients
5 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
3 Tbsp. reduced-fat mayonnaise
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tsp. canned chipotle chilies, rinsed, drained and chopped
1 Tbsp. honey
1 large red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
1 large green bell pepper, cut into thin
1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips
12 oz. jicama, peeled, cut into thin strips
1/3 cup (packed) fresh cilantro leaves, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Puree first 5 ingredients in a blender or food processor until dressing is smooth.
Place peppers, jicama and cilantro in a large bowl. Add dressing and toss to mix and coat well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until the vegetables soften a little but remain crunchy. (About 4 hours.)
Serve at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 42; Protein: 1 g; Sodium: 42 mg; Fat: under 1 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable
TOMATO AND MINT TABBOULEH
Yield: 12 side-dish servings
Online Recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/695.shtml
Source: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/48.shtml
Ingredients
1-1/2 cups bulgur wheat
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1-1/2 cups boiling water
1 pound ripe tomatoes (3 medium), cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium cucumber (8 ounces), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3 green onions, chopped
3/4 cup loosely packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
1/2 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
Directions
In medium bowl, combine bulgur, lemon juice, and boiling water, stirring to mix. Let stand until liquid has been absorbed, about 30 minutes.
To bulgur mixture, add tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, parsley, mint, oil, salt, and pepper, stirring to mix. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour to blend flavors or up to 4 hours.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 87; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 157 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 17 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch/Bread
CHERRY TOMATO FOCACCIA
This is from the July/August 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 61. The recipe starts out with, “This bread is hearty enough to be served with a salad for a light lunch or supper.” Serves 8.
Topping
1/4 cup shelled roasted pistachios
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1/2 tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary
2 cups heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved
Focaccia
3 1/2 cups bread flour
1 Tbs. sugar
2 1/2 tsp. instant yeast
2 tsp. salt
Olive oil, for greasing baking sheet
To make Topping: Pulse pistachios in food processor until ground, but with some larger pieces. Transfer to bowl, and stir in olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
To make Focaccia: Stir together flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and 1 1/4 cups water in bowl. Knead dough in bowl 5 minutes. Cover bowl with towel, and let rise 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Generously grease rimmed baking sheet with olive oil. Stretch dough into 12- x 11-inch rectangle in sheet pan. Let dough rise 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 450°F. Dimple dough with fingers. Whisk 2 Tbs. water into pistachio mixture, and brush onto dough. Press tomato halves cut-side up into dough. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and bottom.
nutritional information Per Slice: Calories: 329; Protein: 9 g; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 48 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 589 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 3 g; Vegan
SPINACH AND ONION SOUP
Yield: 4 servings
Online Recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html.672.shtml
Source: Great Healthy Food - Diabetes
Ingredients
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
3-3/4 cups vegetable stock
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper
2/3 cup white wine
6 cups leaf spinach
Directions
Heat the oil in a saucepan and fry the onions for about 5-8 minutes over low heat, until they have softened.
Pour in the stock and bring to a boil. Add the bay leaf and the seasonings. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
Pour in the wine and add the spinach. Continue to cook, but only until the spinach has wilted slightly.
Remove the bay leaf and serve hot.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 141; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 1011 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1 Fat
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Week Day Recipes
The last week of August calls for summer recipes before we head into the Labor Day weekend. Enjoy!
PEACH COBBLER
Kathy Kingsley, About.com's American Food guide, writes, “This Peach Cobbler recipe is the quintessential summer dessert. Fresh, ripe peaches need little enhancement in the way of flavor - just a little lemon juice and sugar makes for a luscious dessert that tastes as fresh as the fruit itself. Serve this cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped or plain heavy cream. See the Recipe Notes below to make a star-spangled version.”
Ingredients
9 ripe medium peaches (about 3 pounds)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup plus 2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Biscuit Topping
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 stick (1/4 cup) cold butter, cut into small pieces
2/3 cup buttermilk
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 65 minutes; Yield: 8 servings
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
To peel the peaches, bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Immerse the peaches in the boiling water for 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, remove the peaches form the water and rinse them under cold running water. Using a paring knife, slip off the skins, they should slide off easily.
Slice the peaches into wedges and put them into a 2 quart baking dish. Add the lemon juice and 1/2 cup of sugar and toss to coat.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes, or until the peaches are hot and the juices are bubbling.
Meanwhile, make the biscuit topping. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon. Using 2 knives or a pastry blender, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour the buttermilk over the top, and use a fork to toss the mixture until it clumps together.
Remove the foil from the peaches. Using 2 spoons, drop heaping tablespoons of the dough over the peaches. Mix the remaining 2 teaspoons of sugar with the cinnamon and sprinkle it over the dough.
Bake the cobbler until the biscuits are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into them comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Remove the cobbler from the oven and set it on a wore rack to cool. 8. Serve the cobbler warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Recipe Notes
• To make the star-spangle version, flatten the biscuit dough about a 3/4-inch- thick and cut out dough with a star-shaped cookie cutter. Arrange the stars over the fruit and bake as directed. Once cooled, sprinkle the stars with some confectioners' sugar.
• To make a Peach-Blueberry Cobbler, peel and slice 5 medium peaches. Put them into the casserole and add 2 cups of rinsed, fresh blueberries. Toss with the lemon juice and sugar and proceed as directed.
• To make a Peach-Raspberry Cobbler, peel and slice 5 medium peaches. Put them into the casserole and add 2 cups of rinsed, fresh raspberries. Toss with the lemon juice and sugar and proceed as directed.
BLUEBERRY CRUMB PIE
Another recipe from Kathy Kingsley, who writes, “Nothing says summer more than a fresh blueberry pie. The cornmeal gives the crumb topping a slight crunch and whole-grain flavor. The topping may seem soggy when the pie is warm, but as it cools it becomes firm. Store the pie at room temperature on the day it is baked, and then wrap with plastic and refrigerate up to 3 days.”
Ingredients
Pastry for single-crust pie
Blueberry Filling
4 cups fresh or frozen, thawed blueberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons water
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cornmeal Crumb Topping
1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes; Yield: 8 Servings
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450°F.
Roll out the pastry dough on a lightly floured surface with a lightly floured rolling pin into a 12-inch diameter circle. Trim the ragged edges. Line the pie plate with the dough. Prick the bottom and sides of the pie shell with a fork. Line the pastry with a double-thickness of foil. Bake until lightly colored, about 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake until the crust is golden brown, about 10 minutes more. Set the pie crust on a wire rack to cool. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F.
To make the filling, mix 1 cup of the blueberries and the granulated sugar in a medium saucepan. Cook, stirring frequently, over medium heat, until the sugar is dissolved, 4 to 5 minutes.
In a small cup, dissolve the cornstarch in the water. Add to the blueberry mixture and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Cook the mixture until thickened, about 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the remaining 3 cups of blueberries, the lemon zest, and cinnamon.
Pour the filling into the pie shell and set aside.
To make the topping, combine the cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in the bowl of a food processor and process for 1 minute, until well blended. Add the butter and process with on/off turns until the mixture is crumbly. To make by hand: Combine the cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Cut in the butter with 2 knives or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles small peas.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the pie. Bake until the filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown, about 40 minutes. Set the pie on a wire rack and cool completely before serving.
FROZEN PEANUT BUTTER BITES
This yummy recipe comes from the Food Network's Patrick and Gina Neely (Down Home With The Neeleys).
The recipe can be viewed online here.
Total Time: 1 hr 55 min; Prep: 20 min; Inactive: 1 hr 30 min; Cook: 5 min; Yield: 20 bites; Level: Easy
Ingredients
1 (18-ounce) jar creamy peanut butter
2 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Directions
Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the peanut butter and confectioners' sugar together until smooth and stiff. Beat in the vanilla extract. Shape the peanut butter mixture into 20 (1-inch) balls and place on a waxed paper-lined sheet tray. Place the tray in the freezer for 1 hour.
Add chopped chocolate to a small bowl set over gently simmering water. Stir to melt. Remove chocolate from heat. With 2 forks, carefully dip the chilled peanut butter balls 1/2 way into the chocolate, let excess drip off, and lay onto the waxed paper-lined sheet tray.
With a fork, swirl some decorative chocolate across the top of each bite. Place in the refrigerator for the chocolate to set and the peanut butter to solidify, about 30 minutes.
Cook's Note: If it's a hot and humid day outside dust your hands with confectioners' sugar before rolling the balls. This will make it less sticky.
VEGETABLE SHEPHERD'S PIE
This came from the Food Network's Magazine several years ago.
Prep Time: 25 min; Cook Time: 41 min; Level: Easy; Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
6 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
Kosher salt
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
2 stalks celery, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
1 bunch baby turnips, halved or quartered if large
6 cloves garlic, minced
Freshly ground pepper
1/2 bunch fresh parsley, leaves chopped (stems reserved)
1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
3/4 cup chopped veggie burgers or vegetarian protein crumbles
2/3 cup milk or half-and-half
Grated parmesan cheese, for sprinkling (optional)
Directions
Preheat the broiler. Cover the potatoes with water in a pot; season with salt, cover and boil until the potatoes are fork-tender, 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a stovetop casserole dish or shallow enamel pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, turnips and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the vegetables brown, 8 minutes. Add 1 1/2 cups cooking liquid from the potatoes to the casserole dish. Lower the heat and scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Tie the parsley stems with twine and add to the casserole. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender, 8 minutes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons butter and the chopped veggie burgers and warm through, 5 minutes. Remove the parsley stems and stir in the chopped parsley. Keep warm.
Drain the potatoes and mash with the remaining 3 tablespoons butter and the milk; season with salt and pepper and spoon over the casserole. Sprinkle with parmesan, if desired. Broil until golden brown, 5 minutes.
Per serving: Calories 558; Fat 24 g (Saturated 11 g); Cholesterol 42 mg; Sodium 656 mg; Carbohydrate 68 g; Fiber 9 g; Protein 17 g
FRENCH LENTIL SOUP WITH ROASTED TOMATOES & PEPPERS
This comes from Seattle's Macrina Bakery. The recipe starts off, “This soup is a perfect comfort food on a drizzly Seattle day. We like to serve it in our cozy café with a few slices of crostini topped with goat cheese and a drizzle of good olive oil. It is pictured here with our Rustic Potato Roll. French green lentils are usually available in specialty shops and some supermarkets. If you can’t find French green lentils at your favorite market, you can substitute regular lentils.” Serves 4 to 6
Ingredients:
4 Roma tomatoes
3/4 cup olive oil
Kosher Salt
Freshly Ground Pepper
10 garlic cloves
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 red bell peppers, diced
1 celery rib, diced
1-1/2 Tbsp ground cumin
1-1/2 Tbsp ground coriander seeds
1-1/2 cups French green lentils*
8 to 10 cups vegetable stock
1 Tbsp fresh Italian parsley, chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
*Available in specialty shops and some supermarkets.
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash and core the tomatoes, then cut them into 12 pieces each. Combine chopped tomatoes and 1/4 cup of the olive oil in a bowl and toss together. Pour tomatoes onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer. Season with salt and pepper and roast on center rack of oven for about 15 minutes. Set aside.
Place 7 of the garlic cloves and another 1/4 cup of the olive oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over low heat and cook until cloves are tender, approximately 15 minutes. Swirl the pan occasionally to keep the cloves from sticking to the pan. Transfer cooked garlic cloves to a small bowl and mash into a paste. Set aside.
Pour the remaining 1/4 cup of the olive oil into a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot. Add diced onion, red bell peppers and celery. Cover pot and cook for 15 minutes over medium-low heat to sweat the vegetables, stirring occasionally. The onions will become translucent. Finely dice the 3 remaining garlic cloves and add to the soup pot along with the cumin and coriander. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for 1 minute or until garlic smells sweet but is not brown.
Add roasted tomatoes, mashed garlic, lentils and 8 cups of the vegetable stock. Bring to a simmer. Cook soup for 45 to 50 minutes or until lentils are tender, adding more stock if needed. If foam gathers on the surface of the soup, remove it with a spoon. Before serving, add parsley and thyme and season to taste with salt and pepper.
DECADENT TROPICAL FRUIT SALAD
Not sure where this came from. It was on one of the many emailing lists that I used to subscribe to. States that it serves 10 – 12.
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
2 (6 oz.) containers lemon yogurt
3/4 cup sugar
3 bananas, diced
1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple in juice, drained
1 (10-oz.) jar maraschino cherries, chopped and drained (reserve one whole cherry for garnish)
1/2 cup sweetened flaked coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
Mint leaves (for garnish)
In a large bowl, beat together first three ingredients until well mixed. Stir in remaining ingredients, except mint. Spoon into a 1 1/2-quart glass bowl. Garnish by putting reserved cherry in center and arranging mint leaves around it to form a flower. Cover and chill 1 to 2 hours before serving.
PEACH COBBLER
Kathy Kingsley, About.com's American Food guide, writes, “This Peach Cobbler recipe is the quintessential summer dessert. Fresh, ripe peaches need little enhancement in the way of flavor - just a little lemon juice and sugar makes for a luscious dessert that tastes as fresh as the fruit itself. Serve this cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped or plain heavy cream. See the Recipe Notes below to make a star-spangled version.”
Ingredients
9 ripe medium peaches (about 3 pounds)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup plus 2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Biscuit Topping
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 stick (1/4 cup) cold butter, cut into small pieces
2/3 cup buttermilk
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 65 minutes; Yield: 8 servings
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
To peel the peaches, bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Immerse the peaches in the boiling water for 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, remove the peaches form the water and rinse them under cold running water. Using a paring knife, slip off the skins, they should slide off easily.
Slice the peaches into wedges and put them into a 2 quart baking dish. Add the lemon juice and 1/2 cup of sugar and toss to coat.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes, or until the peaches are hot and the juices are bubbling.
Meanwhile, make the biscuit topping. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon. Using 2 knives or a pastry blender, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour the buttermilk over the top, and use a fork to toss the mixture until it clumps together.
Remove the foil from the peaches. Using 2 spoons, drop heaping tablespoons of the dough over the peaches. Mix the remaining 2 teaspoons of sugar with the cinnamon and sprinkle it over the dough.
Bake the cobbler until the biscuits are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into them comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Remove the cobbler from the oven and set it on a wore rack to cool. 8. Serve the cobbler warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Recipe Notes
• To make the star-spangle version, flatten the biscuit dough about a 3/4-inch- thick and cut out dough with a star-shaped cookie cutter. Arrange the stars over the fruit and bake as directed. Once cooled, sprinkle the stars with some confectioners' sugar.
• To make a Peach-Blueberry Cobbler, peel and slice 5 medium peaches. Put them into the casserole and add 2 cups of rinsed, fresh blueberries. Toss with the lemon juice and sugar and proceed as directed.
• To make a Peach-Raspberry Cobbler, peel and slice 5 medium peaches. Put them into the casserole and add 2 cups of rinsed, fresh raspberries. Toss with the lemon juice and sugar and proceed as directed.
BLUEBERRY CRUMB PIE
Another recipe from Kathy Kingsley, who writes, “Nothing says summer more than a fresh blueberry pie. The cornmeal gives the crumb topping a slight crunch and whole-grain flavor. The topping may seem soggy when the pie is warm, but as it cools it becomes firm. Store the pie at room temperature on the day it is baked, and then wrap with plastic and refrigerate up to 3 days.”
Ingredients
Pastry for single-crust pie
Blueberry Filling
4 cups fresh or frozen, thawed blueberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons water
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cornmeal Crumb Topping
1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes; Yield: 8 Servings
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450°F.
Roll out the pastry dough on a lightly floured surface with a lightly floured rolling pin into a 12-inch diameter circle. Trim the ragged edges. Line the pie plate with the dough. Prick the bottom and sides of the pie shell with a fork. Line the pastry with a double-thickness of foil. Bake until lightly colored, about 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake until the crust is golden brown, about 10 minutes more. Set the pie crust on a wire rack to cool. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F.
To make the filling, mix 1 cup of the blueberries and the granulated sugar in a medium saucepan. Cook, stirring frequently, over medium heat, until the sugar is dissolved, 4 to 5 minutes.
In a small cup, dissolve the cornstarch in the water. Add to the blueberry mixture and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Cook the mixture until thickened, about 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the remaining 3 cups of blueberries, the lemon zest, and cinnamon.
Pour the filling into the pie shell and set aside.
To make the topping, combine the cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in the bowl of a food processor and process for 1 minute, until well blended. Add the butter and process with on/off turns until the mixture is crumbly. To make by hand: Combine the cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Cut in the butter with 2 knives or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles small peas.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the pie. Bake until the filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown, about 40 minutes. Set the pie on a wire rack and cool completely before serving.
FROZEN PEANUT BUTTER BITES
This yummy recipe comes from the Food Network's Patrick and Gina Neely (Down Home With The Neeleys).
The recipe can be viewed online here.
Total Time: 1 hr 55 min; Prep: 20 min; Inactive: 1 hr 30 min; Cook: 5 min; Yield: 20 bites; Level: Easy
Ingredients
1 (18-ounce) jar creamy peanut butter
2 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Directions
Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the peanut butter and confectioners' sugar together until smooth and stiff. Beat in the vanilla extract. Shape the peanut butter mixture into 20 (1-inch) balls and place on a waxed paper-lined sheet tray. Place the tray in the freezer for 1 hour.
Add chopped chocolate to a small bowl set over gently simmering water. Stir to melt. Remove chocolate from heat. With 2 forks, carefully dip the chilled peanut butter balls 1/2 way into the chocolate, let excess drip off, and lay onto the waxed paper-lined sheet tray.
With a fork, swirl some decorative chocolate across the top of each bite. Place in the refrigerator for the chocolate to set and the peanut butter to solidify, about 30 minutes.
Cook's Note: If it's a hot and humid day outside dust your hands with confectioners' sugar before rolling the balls. This will make it less sticky.
VEGETABLE SHEPHERD'S PIE
This came from the Food Network's Magazine several years ago.
Prep Time: 25 min; Cook Time: 41 min; Level: Easy; Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
6 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
Kosher salt
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
2 stalks celery, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
1 bunch baby turnips, halved or quartered if large
6 cloves garlic, minced
Freshly ground pepper
1/2 bunch fresh parsley, leaves chopped (stems reserved)
1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
3/4 cup chopped veggie burgers or vegetarian protein crumbles
2/3 cup milk or half-and-half
Grated parmesan cheese, for sprinkling (optional)
Directions
Preheat the broiler. Cover the potatoes with water in a pot; season with salt, cover and boil until the potatoes are fork-tender, 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a stovetop casserole dish or shallow enamel pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, turnips and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the vegetables brown, 8 minutes. Add 1 1/2 cups cooking liquid from the potatoes to the casserole dish. Lower the heat and scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Tie the parsley stems with twine and add to the casserole. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender, 8 minutes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons butter and the chopped veggie burgers and warm through, 5 minutes. Remove the parsley stems and stir in the chopped parsley. Keep warm.
Drain the potatoes and mash with the remaining 3 tablespoons butter and the milk; season with salt and pepper and spoon over the casserole. Sprinkle with parmesan, if desired. Broil until golden brown, 5 minutes.
Per serving: Calories 558; Fat 24 g (Saturated 11 g); Cholesterol 42 mg; Sodium 656 mg; Carbohydrate 68 g; Fiber 9 g; Protein 17 g
FRENCH LENTIL SOUP WITH ROASTED TOMATOES & PEPPERS
This comes from Seattle's Macrina Bakery. The recipe starts off, “This soup is a perfect comfort food on a drizzly Seattle day. We like to serve it in our cozy café with a few slices of crostini topped with goat cheese and a drizzle of good olive oil. It is pictured here with our Rustic Potato Roll. French green lentils are usually available in specialty shops and some supermarkets. If you can’t find French green lentils at your favorite market, you can substitute regular lentils.” Serves 4 to 6
Ingredients:
4 Roma tomatoes
3/4 cup olive oil
Kosher Salt
Freshly Ground Pepper
10 garlic cloves
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 red bell peppers, diced
1 celery rib, diced
1-1/2 Tbsp ground cumin
1-1/2 Tbsp ground coriander seeds
1-1/2 cups French green lentils*
8 to 10 cups vegetable stock
1 Tbsp fresh Italian parsley, chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
*Available in specialty shops and some supermarkets.
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash and core the tomatoes, then cut them into 12 pieces each. Combine chopped tomatoes and 1/4 cup of the olive oil in a bowl and toss together. Pour tomatoes onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer. Season with salt and pepper and roast on center rack of oven for about 15 minutes. Set aside.
Place 7 of the garlic cloves and another 1/4 cup of the olive oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over low heat and cook until cloves are tender, approximately 15 minutes. Swirl the pan occasionally to keep the cloves from sticking to the pan. Transfer cooked garlic cloves to a small bowl and mash into a paste. Set aside.
Pour the remaining 1/4 cup of the olive oil into a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot. Add diced onion, red bell peppers and celery. Cover pot and cook for 15 minutes over medium-low heat to sweat the vegetables, stirring occasionally. The onions will become translucent. Finely dice the 3 remaining garlic cloves and add to the soup pot along with the cumin and coriander. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for 1 minute or until garlic smells sweet but is not brown.
Add roasted tomatoes, mashed garlic, lentils and 8 cups of the vegetable stock. Bring to a simmer. Cook soup for 45 to 50 minutes or until lentils are tender, adding more stock if needed. If foam gathers on the surface of the soup, remove it with a spoon. Before serving, add parsley and thyme and season to taste with salt and pepper.
DECADENT TROPICAL FRUIT SALAD
Not sure where this came from. It was on one of the many emailing lists that I used to subscribe to. States that it serves 10 – 12.
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
2 (6 oz.) containers lemon yogurt
3/4 cup sugar
3 bananas, diced
1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple in juice, drained
1 (10-oz.) jar maraschino cherries, chopped and drained (reserve one whole cherry for garnish)
1/2 cup sweetened flaked coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
Mint leaves (for garnish)
In a large bowl, beat together first three ingredients until well mixed. Stir in remaining ingredients, except mint. Spoon into a 1 1/2-quart glass bowl. Garnish by putting reserved cherry in center and arranging mint leaves around it to form a flower. Cover and chill 1 to 2 hours before serving.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Meatless Monday
Summer is just about over, so here are some late-summer-ish recipes. Enjoy!
LATE SUMMER MINESTRONE WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND FRESH CORN
This comes from the September 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 61, and starts out, “Bright, beautiful, and bursting with veggies, this colorful minestrone is a great way to stretch the harvest.” Serves 6.
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 cup sliced leeks
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 tsp. salt, optional
4 cloves garlic, minced (4 tsp.)
1 Tbs. chopped fresh sage, or 2 tsp. dried sage
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
2 large tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped (1 cup)
2 cups cubed peeled butternut squash (3/4- to 1-inch cubes)
2 cups green beans or flat beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 15-oz. can or 1 1/2 cups cooked white beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
1/2 tsp. balsamic vinegar
2–3 Tbs. chopped fresh mint, plus more for garnish, optional
Heat oil in 5-qt. Dutch oven or other large soup pot over medium heat. Add leeks, celery, bell pepper, and salt, if using. Cover, and cook 6 to 8 minutes, or until veggies are softened, stirring occasionally. Uncover, and continue cooking 5 to 6 minutes more, or until celery is somewhat shrunken and leeks are browned.
Add garlic, sage, Italian seasoning, and bay leaf. Stir 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add tomatoes and 8 cups water, and bring to a boil. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes. Add squash, cover, and simmer 10 minutes. Add green beans, white beans, and corn; simmer 10 minutes more, stirring occasionally. Just before serving, stir in vinegar and mint.
nutritional information Per 2-cup serving: Calories: 185; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 5 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 30 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 130 mg; Fiber: 9 g; Sugar: 7 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
VEGETARIAN CHILI
This is from Runner's World. Apparently, it was in the December 1999 issue and repeated after someone mentioned it in a letter in the February 2000 issue. I'm always amazed at the great food coming out of there!
1 onion, chopped
1 sweet green pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon soybean or olive oil
1 16-ounce package extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
1 or 2 19-once cans of beans (kidney, pinto, or white)
1 28-ounce can stewed tomatoes
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 Tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon hot sauce
Salt & Pepper to taste
Sauté the onion, pepper & garlic in oil over medium heat. Add the tofu and sauté until crisp & lightly browned (about 10 minutes). Add the beans, stewed tomatoes, carrots, chili powder, cumin, hot sauce, & salt & pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat & simmer for 50-60 minutes. Serves 4.
From Runner’s World, December, 1999/letters Feb. 2000
REWORKED VEGETARIAN CHILI
I've fixed this recipe probably several hundred times, easily. I started off with the above Runner's World recipe; it slowly morphed into this recipes.
Note: I have a habit of buying anywhere from 16 to 20 (or more) peppers of varying colors at the same time, then chopping them all up, putting them into several containers, and freezing them. When I put them into the containers, they're not separated by color, but, rather, dumped in together. This way, I end up with containers with red, green, yellow and orange bell peppers all thrown in together. Then, whenever I need cut up peppers, I end up with a colorful bunch of peppers in whatever I'm putting them in. If you prefer, you can buy one or two peppers as needed (like for this recipe) and cut it up at that time. You can use whichever color bell pepper you want; if I'm out of frozen peppers, and am planning to buy only one or two for this recipe, I usually go with the green peppers, since they're usually the cheapest.
Also, with the onions, I usually try to have both yellow and red onions on hand; when I do, I use one of each in this recipe. Finally, for the cans of beans, I lean toward one can of black beans and one can of either Navy or Great Northern beans, both of which are white. Between the multi-colored peppers, two different kinds of onions, and different colored beans, it makes for a more colorful chili. But if you only have two cans of white, red or black beans, that's fine, too.
2 T olive oil
2 onions, chopped
4-6 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 peppers, chopped
16-ounce package extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
2 19-once cans of beans, drained
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 Tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt & Pepper to taste
Sauté the onion, pepper & garlic in oil over medium heat. Add tofu and sauté until crisp & lightly browned. While this is cooking, peel and cut the carrots. Add the beans, crushed tomatoes, carrots, chili powder, cumin, & salt & pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat & simmer for 50-60 minutes. Serve over noodles. Serves 4.
SUMMER VEGGIE KEBABS WITH FRESH CORN RELISH
This comes from the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 32. It serves 4 in 30 minutes or less, and starts out, “Easy-to-assemble vegetable kebabs are paired with a lightly sautéed corn relish for a dish that can be served either as an appetizer or as an entrée when placed atop couscous or another quick-cooking grain. To ensure even cooking, make sure all the vegetables are about the same size.”
Corn Relish
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium yellow tomato, diced (2/3 cup)1 large ear corn, kernels removed (1 1/3 cups kernels)1 1/2 Tbs. white balsamic or white wine vinegar
1/4 tsp. dry mustard powder
2 Tbs. coarsely chopped fresh basil
Kebabs
1/4 cup olive oil
2 Tbs. white balsamic or white wine vinegar
3/4 tsp. dry mustard powder, divided
1 small yellow bell pepper, halved, seeded, and cut into 12 square pieces
1 medium zucchini, halved and cut into 12 slices
1/2 small red onion, cut into 12 chunks
12 whole cremini mushrooms
12 grape or cherry tomatoes
Coat grill grate or grill pan with cooking spray, and preheat over medium heat.
To make Corn Relish: Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Add tomato, cover, and cook 4 minutes, or until tomato is breaking down. Add corn kernels, and cook 2 minutes, or until corn is tender. Stir in vinegar and mustard powder, and cook 1 minute more. Remove from heat. Mix in basil; season with salt and pepper, if desired.
To make Kebabs: whisk together oil, vinegar, and mustard powder in small bowl.
Thread each of 12 skewers with 1 bell pepper square, 1 zucchini slice, 1 red onion chunk, 1 mushroom, and 1 tomato. Place skewers on large platter, and brush with vinaigrette mixture. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
Grill skewers 6 to 8 minutes, turning every 2 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and browned on all sides. Serve with Corn Relish.
nutritional information Per Serving (3 kebabs and 1/2 cup relish): Calories: 247; Protein: 5 g; Total Fat: 18 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 30 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 9 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
SATAY NOODLE SALAD
Another recipes from the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 30. This also serves 4 in 30 minutes or less, and starts out, “Lightly grilled vegetables are paired with fresh pasta and tossed in a creamy peanut sauce for a one-bowl meal that’s delicious hot or cold. Feel free to substitute your favorite seasonal vegetables for those in the recipe.”
3 oz. fresh fettuccine (1/3 9-oz. pkg.)
6 oz. stringless sugar snap peas
4 bunches baby bok choy, greens chopped, stem ends halved
6 radishes, trimmed and halved
2 medium Japanese eggplants, sliced diagonally
3 Tbs. natural creamy peanut butter
3 Tbs. unseasoned rice vinegar
3 Tbs. honey
1 Tbs. low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp. chile sauce, such as sriracha
Coat grill pan or grill basket with cooking spray, and preheat over medium heat.
Cook noodles in boiling salted water 2 minutes. Add sugar snap peas, and cook 1 minute more. Drain, rinse with cold water, and drain again. Transfer to bowl.
Arrange bok choy stems, radishes, and eggplant slices on grill pan or in grill basket. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cook 6 minutes, turning once.
Meanwhile, whisk together peanut butter, vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and chile sauce in small bowl. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
Cut eggplant into strips. Slice bok choy stems and radishes. Add vegetables to noodle mixture, and toss with peanut sauce.
nutritional information Per 2 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 256; Protein: 10 g; Total Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 41 g; Cholesterol: 17 mg; Sodium: 362 mg; Fiber: 7 g; Sugar: 21 g
FRESH TOMATO FARFALLE
From the July/August 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 87. Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less, and starts out, “Try this recipe with an assortment of heirloom tomatoes for a colorful main dish that’s delicious hot or cold.”
1/4 cup lime juice
3 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. grated lime zest
1 tsp. ground cumin
2 lb. tomatoes, cut into bite-size pieces (5 cups)
1 15-oz. can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup torn basil leaves
9 oz. farfalle pasta
1 1/4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
Combine lime juice, olive oil, lime zest, and cumin in large bowl. Add tomatoes, chickpeas, and basil, and toss to coat. Set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add corn to pasta water 2 minutes before end of cooking time. Drain, and toss with tomato mixture. Serve warm or at room temperature.
nutritional information Per Serving: Calories: 362; Protein: 12 g; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 61 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 352 mg; Fiber: 7 g; Sugar: 6 g; Vegan
LATE SUMMER MINESTRONE WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND FRESH CORN
This comes from the September 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 61, and starts out, “Bright, beautiful, and bursting with veggies, this colorful minestrone is a great way to stretch the harvest.” Serves 6.
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 cup sliced leeks
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 tsp. salt, optional
4 cloves garlic, minced (4 tsp.)
1 Tbs. chopped fresh sage, or 2 tsp. dried sage
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
2 large tomatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped (1 cup)
2 cups cubed peeled butternut squash (3/4- to 1-inch cubes)
2 cups green beans or flat beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 15-oz. can or 1 1/2 cups cooked white beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
1/2 tsp. balsamic vinegar
2–3 Tbs. chopped fresh mint, plus more for garnish, optional
Heat oil in 5-qt. Dutch oven or other large soup pot over medium heat. Add leeks, celery, bell pepper, and salt, if using. Cover, and cook 6 to 8 minutes, or until veggies are softened, stirring occasionally. Uncover, and continue cooking 5 to 6 minutes more, or until celery is somewhat shrunken and leeks are browned.
Add garlic, sage, Italian seasoning, and bay leaf. Stir 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add tomatoes and 8 cups water, and bring to a boil. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes. Add squash, cover, and simmer 10 minutes. Add green beans, white beans, and corn; simmer 10 minutes more, stirring occasionally. Just before serving, stir in vinegar and mint.
nutritional information Per 2-cup serving: Calories: 185; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 5 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 30 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 130 mg; Fiber: 9 g; Sugar: 7 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
VEGETARIAN CHILI
This is from Runner's World. Apparently, it was in the December 1999 issue and repeated after someone mentioned it in a letter in the February 2000 issue. I'm always amazed at the great food coming out of there!
1 onion, chopped
1 sweet green pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon soybean or olive oil
1 16-ounce package extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
1 or 2 19-once cans of beans (kidney, pinto, or white)
1 28-ounce can stewed tomatoes
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 Tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon hot sauce
Salt & Pepper to taste
Sauté the onion, pepper & garlic in oil over medium heat. Add the tofu and sauté until crisp & lightly browned (about 10 minutes). Add the beans, stewed tomatoes, carrots, chili powder, cumin, hot sauce, & salt & pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat & simmer for 50-60 minutes. Serves 4.
From Runner’s World, December, 1999/letters Feb. 2000
REWORKED VEGETARIAN CHILI
I've fixed this recipe probably several hundred times, easily. I started off with the above Runner's World recipe; it slowly morphed into this recipes.
Note: I have a habit of buying anywhere from 16 to 20 (or more) peppers of varying colors at the same time, then chopping them all up, putting them into several containers, and freezing them. When I put them into the containers, they're not separated by color, but, rather, dumped in together. This way, I end up with containers with red, green, yellow and orange bell peppers all thrown in together. Then, whenever I need cut up peppers, I end up with a colorful bunch of peppers in whatever I'm putting them in. If you prefer, you can buy one or two peppers as needed (like for this recipe) and cut it up at that time. You can use whichever color bell pepper you want; if I'm out of frozen peppers, and am planning to buy only one or two for this recipe, I usually go with the green peppers, since they're usually the cheapest.
Also, with the onions, I usually try to have both yellow and red onions on hand; when I do, I use one of each in this recipe. Finally, for the cans of beans, I lean toward one can of black beans and one can of either Navy or Great Northern beans, both of which are white. Between the multi-colored peppers, two different kinds of onions, and different colored beans, it makes for a more colorful chili. But if you only have two cans of white, red or black beans, that's fine, too.
2 T olive oil
2 onions, chopped
4-6 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 peppers, chopped
16-ounce package extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
2 19-once cans of beans, drained
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 Tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt & Pepper to taste
Sauté the onion, pepper & garlic in oil over medium heat. Add tofu and sauté until crisp & lightly browned. While this is cooking, peel and cut the carrots. Add the beans, crushed tomatoes, carrots, chili powder, cumin, & salt & pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat & simmer for 50-60 minutes. Serve over noodles. Serves 4.
SUMMER VEGGIE KEBABS WITH FRESH CORN RELISH
This comes from the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 32. It serves 4 in 30 minutes or less, and starts out, “Easy-to-assemble vegetable kebabs are paired with a lightly sautéed corn relish for a dish that can be served either as an appetizer or as an entrée when placed atop couscous or another quick-cooking grain. To ensure even cooking, make sure all the vegetables are about the same size.”
Corn Relish
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium yellow tomato, diced (2/3 cup)1 large ear corn, kernels removed (1 1/3 cups kernels)1 1/2 Tbs. white balsamic or white wine vinegar
1/4 tsp. dry mustard powder
2 Tbs. coarsely chopped fresh basil
Kebabs
1/4 cup olive oil
2 Tbs. white balsamic or white wine vinegar
3/4 tsp. dry mustard powder, divided
1 small yellow bell pepper, halved, seeded, and cut into 12 square pieces
1 medium zucchini, halved and cut into 12 slices
1/2 small red onion, cut into 12 chunks
12 whole cremini mushrooms
12 grape or cherry tomatoes
Coat grill grate or grill pan with cooking spray, and preheat over medium heat.
To make Corn Relish: Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Add tomato, cover, and cook 4 minutes, or until tomato is breaking down. Add corn kernels, and cook 2 minutes, or until corn is tender. Stir in vinegar and mustard powder, and cook 1 minute more. Remove from heat. Mix in basil; season with salt and pepper, if desired.
To make Kebabs: whisk together oil, vinegar, and mustard powder in small bowl.
Thread each of 12 skewers with 1 bell pepper square, 1 zucchini slice, 1 red onion chunk, 1 mushroom, and 1 tomato. Place skewers on large platter, and brush with vinaigrette mixture. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
Grill skewers 6 to 8 minutes, turning every 2 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and browned on all sides. Serve with Corn Relish.
nutritional information Per Serving (3 kebabs and 1/2 cup relish): Calories: 247; Protein: 5 g; Total Fat: 18 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 30 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 9 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
SATAY NOODLE SALAD
Another recipes from the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 30. This also serves 4 in 30 minutes or less, and starts out, “Lightly grilled vegetables are paired with fresh pasta and tossed in a creamy peanut sauce for a one-bowl meal that’s delicious hot or cold. Feel free to substitute your favorite seasonal vegetables for those in the recipe.”
3 oz. fresh fettuccine (1/3 9-oz. pkg.)
6 oz. stringless sugar snap peas
4 bunches baby bok choy, greens chopped, stem ends halved
6 radishes, trimmed and halved
2 medium Japanese eggplants, sliced diagonally
3 Tbs. natural creamy peanut butter
3 Tbs. unseasoned rice vinegar
3 Tbs. honey
1 Tbs. low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp. chile sauce, such as sriracha
Coat grill pan or grill basket with cooking spray, and preheat over medium heat.
Cook noodles in boiling salted water 2 minutes. Add sugar snap peas, and cook 1 minute more. Drain, rinse with cold water, and drain again. Transfer to bowl.
Arrange bok choy stems, radishes, and eggplant slices on grill pan or in grill basket. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cook 6 minutes, turning once.
Meanwhile, whisk together peanut butter, vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and chile sauce in small bowl. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
Cut eggplant into strips. Slice bok choy stems and radishes. Add vegetables to noodle mixture, and toss with peanut sauce.
nutritional information Per 2 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 256; Protein: 10 g; Total Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 41 g; Cholesterol: 17 mg; Sodium: 362 mg; Fiber: 7 g; Sugar: 21 g
FRESH TOMATO FARFALLE
From the July/August 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 87. Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less, and starts out, “Try this recipe with an assortment of heirloom tomatoes for a colorful main dish that’s delicious hot or cold.”
1/4 cup lime juice
3 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. grated lime zest
1 tsp. ground cumin
2 lb. tomatoes, cut into bite-size pieces (5 cups)
1 15-oz. can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup torn basil leaves
9 oz. farfalle pasta
1 1/4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
Combine lime juice, olive oil, lime zest, and cumin in large bowl. Add tomatoes, chickpeas, and basil, and toss to coat. Set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add corn to pasta water 2 minutes before end of cooking time. Drain, and toss with tomato mixture. Serve warm or at room temperature.
nutritional information Per Serving: Calories: 362; Protein: 12 g; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 61 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 352 mg; Fiber: 7 g; Sugar: 6 g; Vegan
Friday, August 22, 2014
Weekend Meals - Almost the End of Summer
It's Friday, which means weekend meals again. Enjoy!
FARMERS' MARKET POT PIE
This comes from About.com's American Food guide, Kathy Kingsley. She writes, “This recipe is easily adaptable as it can be prepared with almost any fresh vegetables of your liking. So look to see what's in season and available at your local farmer's market or farmstand. The biscuit crust makes a wonderful flaky pot pie topping. This recipe can also be made into individual pot pies, in which case reduce the baking time to 15 to 18 minutes.” Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: Serves 6. The recipe can be viewed online here.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup thinly sliced celery
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2 inch lengths
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk, whole or low-fat
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon tamari or low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Biscuit Topping
1 3/4 cups whole-wheat pastry four
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons butter, cold and cut into small pieces
3/4 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons honey
Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the oil. Add the onion and cook, stirring often, until soft and tender, about 5 minutes. Add the celery, broccoli, bell pepper and green beans, and cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
In glass measuring cup, combine the milk and the broth. Slowly add to vegetable mixture while whisking constantly. The sauce will start to thicken. Add the parsley, tamari, thyme, and sage. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart casserole, and set aside ( use individual 8 to 10-ounce ramekins or small baking dishes).
Make the topping: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Using a pastry blender, two knives, or a fork, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse meal. In a glass measuring cup, combine the buttermilk and honey. Add to the flour mixture, stirring with a fork to form a stiff dough. Add more buttermilk if the dough is too dry. Knead the dough lightly in the bowl for 3 to 5 minutes, until it is no longer sticky. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll out the dough into a shape to cover the casserole dish.
Lay biscuit topping lightly over the filling. Do not seal the edges. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Serve hot.
MAGIC CATERPILLAR PEANUT BUTTER BREAD
Years ago, I got hooked on Breaking Bread with Father Dominic on (if I remember correctly) the Food Network. Unfortunately, the show has since left the air, at least where I live, although the episodes can still be found here. Check out his website, The Bread Monk, at http://www.breadmonk.com/. This recipe yields 1 loaf.
Ingredients:
1 package FLEISCHMANN'S Active Dry Yeast
1/4 cup warm water
1 cup milk
3/4 cup chunky peanut butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 1/4 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
For decoration: tubes of colored frosting, candies, gumdrops, licorice, etc.
Directions:
Sprinkle yeast over warm water in large bowl; stir to dissolve yeast. Let stand about 10 minutes, or until foamy.
Combine milk, peanut butter, sugar and salt in small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is smooth. Let cool to lukewarm, then add to yeast mixture. Stir in flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing after each addition until flour is thoroughly incorporated.
Turn out dough onto lightly floured surface. Knead 5 minutes, adding small amounts of the remaining flour as needed to keep dough manageable. Rinse and dry bowl, then lightly oil surface of dough and place dough in bowl. Cover with a dry cloth and let rise in a warm, draft-free place 1 hour.
Punch down dough. Knead briefly to expel large air bubbles. Roll dough into a rope about 24 inches long. Form rope into a large S shape on a lightly greased 18x12-inch baking sheet. Using a butter knife or dough scraper, chop rope into 3-inch sections, but do not separate completely. Cover with a cloth and let rise about 30 minutes. (The caterpillar will magically grow back together during rising and baking.)
About 15 minutes before end of rising time, preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake loaf 25 minutes, or until top is golden brown. Let cool on baking sheet 15 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate cooled loaf with frosting and gumdrops or other candy. Poke holes in the sides with a wooden pick and insert sections of licorice for legs.
Note: Decorating gel doesn't work as well as frosting as a glue for the candy decorations, so make sure you pick up the right tube at the store. Any candies will work to make spots for the caterpillar's sections. Thin red licorice makes the perfect legs and antennae, unless you know your youngsters prefer the flavor of black licorice.
EASY VEGETARIAN COUSCOUS SALAD
Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian Food guide, writes, “Like couscous salads? This one is just about perfect. It's an easy vegetarian and vegan couscous salad recipe with chickpeas and cucumbers in a light lemon Dijon dressing with chopped fresh parsley. Couscous salad is always a good choice to bring to a vegetarian potluck or picnic.”
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked couscous
6 green onions, chopped
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 cup cucumber, chopped
1/2 cup chickpeas (garbanzo beans) pre-cooked or canned
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
3/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp salt
dash pepper to taste
Preparation:
Combine the couscous, onions, tomatoes, cucumber chickpeas and parsley in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk or blend together the remaining ingredients and pour over the couscous, tossing gently to coat.
FRENCH ONION SOUP
My dad used to make French Onion Soup after church on Sundays, so I associate this with the weekend. This version of the recipe comes from About.com's American Food email. It starts off, “French onion soup is one of America's most popular 'restaurant soups,' but with this easy recipe you can make it at home anytime you want. This French onion soup recipe is topped with the traditional Gruyere cheese, but any melting cheese will work.” It makes 8 portions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Ingredients:
4 large yellow onions, cut in large dice
1/2 stick unsalted butter
1 tbsp sherry vinegar
1/4 cup dry sherry wine
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1/2 tsp salt
fresh ground black pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
3 cups high-quality beef broth
3 cups high-quality chicken broth
1 cup water
For the topping:
toasted French bread
8 oz shredded Gruyere cheese, or other Swiss cheese
Preparation:
In a large soup pot, melt the butter over med-low heat. Add the onions and salt; slowly cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden-brown - about 30 minutes.
Add the vinegar and sherry; cook for 5 minutes, and then add the remaining ingredients. Simmer on low for one hour. Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into heatproof bowls, or crocks, and top with a piece of toasted bread (cut to fit top of bowl).
Cover with the cheese, and place under a preheated broiler until the cheese melts and begins to brown. Serve hot.
CREAMY IRISH POTATO SOUP
This recipe comes from Campbell's Kitchen; to view this recipe online, click here. The recipe starts off, "This rich and creamy potato soup is subtly flavored with celery and green onions. It's the kind of soup you'll want to savor slowly...even though it's ready in just 35 minutes."
Prep. time: 15 minutes; Cooking time: 25 minutes; Serves: 5 servings (1 1/4 cups each)
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
4 medium green onion, sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1 stalk celery, sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1 3/4 cups Swanson® Chicken Broth, (Regular, Natural Goodness® or Certified Organic)
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 medium potato, sliced 1/4-inch thick (about 3 cups)
1 1/2 cups milk
Directions
Heat the butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and celery and cook until they're tender.
Stir the broth, black pepper and potatoes in the saucepan and heat to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Place half of the broth mixture and half of the milk in a blender or food processor. Cover and blend until smooth. Repeat with the remaining broth mixture and remaining milk. Return to the saucepan and heat through.
BEST MAC AND CHEESE
From My Daily Moment. Makes 6 servings; ready in 20 minutes
Ingredients
1 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups skim milk
1 1/2 cup (6 oz.) shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
3 tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. low-sodium Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/8 tsp. hot sauce
4 cups hot cooked medium elbow macaroni
Directions
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; add flour. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly with a wire whisk. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; add cheeses and next 4 ingredients, stirring until cheeses melt. Combine cheese sauce and macaroni in a bowl; stir well. Serve immediately.
FARMERS' MARKET POT PIE
This comes from About.com's American Food guide, Kathy Kingsley. She writes, “This recipe is easily adaptable as it can be prepared with almost any fresh vegetables of your liking. So look to see what's in season and available at your local farmer's market or farmstand. The biscuit crust makes a wonderful flaky pot pie topping. This recipe can also be made into individual pot pies, in which case reduce the baking time to 15 to 18 minutes.” Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: Serves 6. The recipe can be viewed online here.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup thinly sliced celery
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2 inch lengths
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk, whole or low-fat
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon tamari or low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Biscuit Topping
1 3/4 cups whole-wheat pastry four
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons butter, cold and cut into small pieces
3/4 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons honey
Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the oil. Add the onion and cook, stirring often, until soft and tender, about 5 minutes. Add the celery, broccoli, bell pepper and green beans, and cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
In glass measuring cup, combine the milk and the broth. Slowly add to vegetable mixture while whisking constantly. The sauce will start to thicken. Add the parsley, tamari, thyme, and sage. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart casserole, and set aside ( use individual 8 to 10-ounce ramekins or small baking dishes).
Make the topping: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Using a pastry blender, two knives, or a fork, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse meal. In a glass measuring cup, combine the buttermilk and honey. Add to the flour mixture, stirring with a fork to form a stiff dough. Add more buttermilk if the dough is too dry. Knead the dough lightly in the bowl for 3 to 5 minutes, until it is no longer sticky. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll out the dough into a shape to cover the casserole dish.
Lay biscuit topping lightly over the filling. Do not seal the edges. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Serve hot.
MAGIC CATERPILLAR PEANUT BUTTER BREAD
Years ago, I got hooked on Breaking Bread with Father Dominic on (if I remember correctly) the Food Network. Unfortunately, the show has since left the air, at least where I live, although the episodes can still be found here. Check out his website, The Bread Monk, at http://www.breadmonk.com/. This recipe yields 1 loaf.
Ingredients:
1 package FLEISCHMANN'S Active Dry Yeast
1/4 cup warm water
1 cup milk
3/4 cup chunky peanut butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 1/4 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
For decoration: tubes of colored frosting, candies, gumdrops, licorice, etc.
Directions:
Sprinkle yeast over warm water in large bowl; stir to dissolve yeast. Let stand about 10 minutes, or until foamy.
Combine milk, peanut butter, sugar and salt in small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is smooth. Let cool to lukewarm, then add to yeast mixture. Stir in flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing after each addition until flour is thoroughly incorporated.
Turn out dough onto lightly floured surface. Knead 5 minutes, adding small amounts of the remaining flour as needed to keep dough manageable. Rinse and dry bowl, then lightly oil surface of dough and place dough in bowl. Cover with a dry cloth and let rise in a warm, draft-free place 1 hour.
Punch down dough. Knead briefly to expel large air bubbles. Roll dough into a rope about 24 inches long. Form rope into a large S shape on a lightly greased 18x12-inch baking sheet. Using a butter knife or dough scraper, chop rope into 3-inch sections, but do not separate completely. Cover with a cloth and let rise about 30 minutes. (The caterpillar will magically grow back together during rising and baking.)
About 15 minutes before end of rising time, preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake loaf 25 minutes, or until top is golden brown. Let cool on baking sheet 15 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate cooled loaf with frosting and gumdrops or other candy. Poke holes in the sides with a wooden pick and insert sections of licorice for legs.
Note: Decorating gel doesn't work as well as frosting as a glue for the candy decorations, so make sure you pick up the right tube at the store. Any candies will work to make spots for the caterpillar's sections. Thin red licorice makes the perfect legs and antennae, unless you know your youngsters prefer the flavor of black licorice.
EASY VEGETARIAN COUSCOUS SALAD
Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian Food guide, writes, “Like couscous salads? This one is just about perfect. It's an easy vegetarian and vegan couscous salad recipe with chickpeas and cucumbers in a light lemon Dijon dressing with chopped fresh parsley. Couscous salad is always a good choice to bring to a vegetarian potluck or picnic.”
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked couscous
6 green onions, chopped
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 cup cucumber, chopped
1/2 cup chickpeas (garbanzo beans) pre-cooked or canned
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
3/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp salt
dash pepper to taste
Preparation:
Combine the couscous, onions, tomatoes, cucumber chickpeas and parsley in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk or blend together the remaining ingredients and pour over the couscous, tossing gently to coat.
FRENCH ONION SOUP
My dad used to make French Onion Soup after church on Sundays, so I associate this with the weekend. This version of the recipe comes from About.com's American Food email. It starts off, “French onion soup is one of America's most popular 'restaurant soups,' but with this easy recipe you can make it at home anytime you want. This French onion soup recipe is topped with the traditional Gruyere cheese, but any melting cheese will work.” It makes 8 portions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Ingredients:
4 large yellow onions, cut in large dice
1/2 stick unsalted butter
1 tbsp sherry vinegar
1/4 cup dry sherry wine
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1/2 tsp salt
fresh ground black pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
3 cups high-quality beef broth
3 cups high-quality chicken broth
1 cup water
For the topping:
toasted French bread
8 oz shredded Gruyere cheese, or other Swiss cheese
Preparation:
In a large soup pot, melt the butter over med-low heat. Add the onions and salt; slowly cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden-brown - about 30 minutes.
Add the vinegar and sherry; cook for 5 minutes, and then add the remaining ingredients. Simmer on low for one hour. Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into heatproof bowls, or crocks, and top with a piece of toasted bread (cut to fit top of bowl).
Cover with the cheese, and place under a preheated broiler until the cheese melts and begins to brown. Serve hot.
CREAMY IRISH POTATO SOUP
This recipe comes from Campbell's Kitchen; to view this recipe online, click here. The recipe starts off, "This rich and creamy potato soup is subtly flavored with celery and green onions. It's the kind of soup you'll want to savor slowly...even though it's ready in just 35 minutes."
Prep. time: 15 minutes; Cooking time: 25 minutes; Serves: 5 servings (1 1/4 cups each)
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
4 medium green onion, sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1 stalk celery, sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1 3/4 cups Swanson® Chicken Broth, (Regular, Natural Goodness® or Certified Organic)
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 medium potato, sliced 1/4-inch thick (about 3 cups)
1 1/2 cups milk
Directions
Heat the butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and celery and cook until they're tender.
Stir the broth, black pepper and potatoes in the saucepan and heat to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Place half of the broth mixture and half of the milk in a blender or food processor. Cover and blend until smooth. Repeat with the remaining broth mixture and remaining milk. Return to the saucepan and heat through.
BEST MAC AND CHEESE
From My Daily Moment. Makes 6 servings; ready in 20 minutes
Ingredients
1 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups skim milk
1 1/2 cup (6 oz.) shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
3 tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. low-sodium Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/8 tsp. hot sauce
4 cups hot cooked medium elbow macaroni
Directions
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; add flour. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly with a wire whisk. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; add cheeses and next 4 ingredients, stirring until cheeses melt. Combine cheese sauce and macaroni in a bowl; stir well. Serve immediately.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Diabetic Thursday
More yummy meals to dispel the "diabetic food is boring" myth. Enjoy!
PAN-STEAMED ZUCCHINI AND YELLOW SQUASH NOODLES
Yield: 2 pounds; Serves: 10; Serving Size: 3 ounces
Source: The Professional Chef's Techniques of Healthy Cooking
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/610.shtml
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds zucchini
1-1/2 pounds yellow squash
1 teaspoon butter
1/2 tablespoon minced shallots
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
2 fluid ounces Vegetable Stock
1 tablespoon minced herbs (use a variety of herbs, such as basil, tarragon, chives, cilantro, thyme, and oregano.)
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon crushed black peppercorns
Directions
Using a mandoline, cut the zucchini and yellow squash lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick noodles. Discard the center of the squashes.
Heat the butter in a large saute pan. Add the shallots and garlic. Sweat until the shallots are translucent.
Add the squash noodles and stock. Cover the pan and pan steam the squash until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess liquid.
Season with the herbs, lemon juice, and black pepper.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 3 ; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 0.5 g; Sodium: 0 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable
QUINOA PILAF WITH RED AND YELLOW PEPPERS
Yield: 2-1/4 pounds; Serves: 12; Serving Size: 3 ounces
Source: The Professional Chef's Techniques of Healthy Cooking
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/611.shtml
Ingredients
2-1/2 tablespoons minced shallots
2 tablespoons minced garlic
20 fluid ounces Chicken or Vegetable stock
12 ounces quinoa, well-rinsed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 bay leaf
1 sprig thyme
7 ounces roasted red and yellow peppers, diced
Directions
In a medium saucepan, sweat the shallots and garlic in 2 fluid ounces of the stock until the shallots are translucent.
Add the quinoa, remaining stock, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the liquid to a boil.
Cover the pot tightly and place in a 350 degree F. oven until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, about 15 minutes.
Remove and discard the bay leaf and thyme. Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains and release steam. Fold in the peppers and serve.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130 ; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 2 ; Sodium: 150 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Sugars: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 1 Vegetable
CANNELLINI AND CABBAGE SOUP
Makes: 8 Servings (about 1 cup each)
Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/22.shtml
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/601.shtml
Ingredients
Vegetable cooking spray
3 cups thinly sliced or chopped cabbage
1 small onion, coarsely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed caraway seeds
2 cans (15 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1 can (15oz) cannellini or Great Northern beans, rinsed, drained
1/2 cup (4 ounces) mostaccioli (penne), uncooked
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Spray large saucepan with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Saute cabbage, onion, garlic, and caraway seeds until cabbage begins to wilt, 8 to 10 minutes.
Add chicken broth, water, and beans to saucepan; heat to boiling. Stir in pasta; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until pasta is al dente, about 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Nutritional Information Per Serving:Calories: 107; Protein: 7 g; Sodium: 175 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 22 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1 Bread, 1/2 Meat
HERB BREAD
Makes one 1-lb loaf, 8 slices; 16 servings (1/2 slice is 1 serving)
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/301.shtml
Ingredients
1 teaspoon Fast-rising yeast OR 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast
2 cups Bread flour
1 tablespoon Dry milk
1 tablespoon Sugar
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Dried chives
1 teaspoon Marjoram
1 teaspoon Thyme
1 teaspoon Basil
1 tablespoon Margarine or butter
7/8 cup Water (77-95F)
Directions
Place all ingredients in the bread machine in the order suggested in your operator’s manual. (If using fresh herbs, double the amount called for.)
Select the white bread mode; press start. This recipe can be made with regular, rapid or delayed-time bake cycles.
Makes one 1-pound loaf, for 16 servings.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 64; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 145 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 gExchanges: 2-1/2 Bread/Starch
ORANGE CRANBERRY BREAD
Yield: 1 loaf (18 slices); Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/412.shtml
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 medium orange
2 teaspoons margarine, melted
1 large egg, beaten, or 1/4 cup egg substitute
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Cut aluminum foil to fit the bottom of a 9x5-inch loaf pan and spray the sides of the pan with nonstick pan spray.
Sift the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl.
Grate the zest from the orange and set aside. Cut the orange in half and squeeze the juice into a measuring cup. Add the grated zest and melted margarine to the juice and add enough hot water to make 1 cup.
Stir the liquids into the dry ingredients. Add the egg, vanilla, cranberries, and walnuts; stir to mix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the top of the loaf comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack.
If time permits, let stand overnight for easy slicing. Cut the loaf into 18 slices.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 108; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 109 mg; Cholesterol: 12 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat
LEMON SPIKED GARLIC GREENS
Kale, collard, turnip, or beet greens are excellent choices for this quick-and-easy healthy vegetable.
Yield: 4 Servings
Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/269.shtml
Ingredients
Garlic-flavored vegetable cooking spray
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-1/2 pounds greens, washed, stems removed, coarsely chopped
1/3 cup water
1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Spray large saucepan with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Saute onion and garlic until tender, 3 to 4 minutes.
Add greens and water to saucepan; heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until greens are wilted and tender, about 5 to 8 minutes, adding more water if necessary. Season to taste with lemon juice, salt and pepper.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 58; Protein: 5.9 g; Fat: 1.7 g; Sodium: 43 mg; Cholesterol: 53.3 mg; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable
PAN-STEAMED ZUCCHINI AND YELLOW SQUASH NOODLES
Yield: 2 pounds; Serves: 10; Serving Size: 3 ounces
Source: The Professional Chef's Techniques of Healthy Cooking
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/610.shtml
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds zucchini
1-1/2 pounds yellow squash
1 teaspoon butter
1/2 tablespoon minced shallots
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
2 fluid ounces Vegetable Stock
1 tablespoon minced herbs (use a variety of herbs, such as basil, tarragon, chives, cilantro, thyme, and oregano.)
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon crushed black peppercorns
Directions
Using a mandoline, cut the zucchini and yellow squash lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick noodles. Discard the center of the squashes.
Heat the butter in a large saute pan. Add the shallots and garlic. Sweat until the shallots are translucent.
Add the squash noodles and stock. Cover the pan and pan steam the squash until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess liquid.
Season with the herbs, lemon juice, and black pepper.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 3 ; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 0.5 g; Sodium: 0 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable
QUINOA PILAF WITH RED AND YELLOW PEPPERS
Yield: 2-1/4 pounds; Serves: 12; Serving Size: 3 ounces
Source: The Professional Chef's Techniques of Healthy Cooking
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/611.shtml
Ingredients
2-1/2 tablespoons minced shallots
2 tablespoons minced garlic
20 fluid ounces Chicken or Vegetable stock
12 ounces quinoa, well-rinsed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 bay leaf
1 sprig thyme
7 ounces roasted red and yellow peppers, diced
Directions
In a medium saucepan, sweat the shallots and garlic in 2 fluid ounces of the stock until the shallots are translucent.
Add the quinoa, remaining stock, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the liquid to a boil.
Cover the pot tightly and place in a 350 degree F. oven until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, about 15 minutes.
Remove and discard the bay leaf and thyme. Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains and release steam. Fold in the peppers and serve.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130 ; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 2 ; Sodium: 150 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Sugars: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 1 Vegetable
CANNELLINI AND CABBAGE SOUP
Makes: 8 Servings (about 1 cup each)
Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/22.shtml
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/601.shtml
Ingredients
Vegetable cooking spray
3 cups thinly sliced or chopped cabbage
1 small onion, coarsely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed caraway seeds
2 cans (15 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1 can (15oz) cannellini or Great Northern beans, rinsed, drained
1/2 cup (4 ounces) mostaccioli (penne), uncooked
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Spray large saucepan with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Saute cabbage, onion, garlic, and caraway seeds until cabbage begins to wilt, 8 to 10 minutes.
Add chicken broth, water, and beans to saucepan; heat to boiling. Stir in pasta; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until pasta is al dente, about 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Nutritional Information Per Serving:Calories: 107; Protein: 7 g; Sodium: 175 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 22 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1 Bread, 1/2 Meat
HERB BREAD
Makes one 1-lb loaf, 8 slices; 16 servings (1/2 slice is 1 serving)
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/301.shtml
Ingredients
1 teaspoon Fast-rising yeast OR 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast
2 cups Bread flour
1 tablespoon Dry milk
1 tablespoon Sugar
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Dried chives
1 teaspoon Marjoram
1 teaspoon Thyme
1 teaspoon Basil
1 tablespoon Margarine or butter
7/8 cup Water (77-95F)
Directions
Place all ingredients in the bread machine in the order suggested in your operator’s manual. (If using fresh herbs, double the amount called for.)
Select the white bread mode; press start. This recipe can be made with regular, rapid or delayed-time bake cycles.
Makes one 1-pound loaf, for 16 servings.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 64; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 145 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 gExchanges: 2-1/2 Bread/Starch
ORANGE CRANBERRY BREAD
Yield: 1 loaf (18 slices); Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/412.shtml
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 medium orange
2 teaspoons margarine, melted
1 large egg, beaten, or 1/4 cup egg substitute
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Cut aluminum foil to fit the bottom of a 9x5-inch loaf pan and spray the sides of the pan with nonstick pan spray.
Sift the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl.
Grate the zest from the orange and set aside. Cut the orange in half and squeeze the juice into a measuring cup. Add the grated zest and melted margarine to the juice and add enough hot water to make 1 cup.
Stir the liquids into the dry ingredients. Add the egg, vanilla, cranberries, and walnuts; stir to mix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the top of the loaf comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack.
If time permits, let stand overnight for easy slicing. Cut the loaf into 18 slices.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 108; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 109 mg; Cholesterol: 12 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat
LEMON SPIKED GARLIC GREENS
Kale, collard, turnip, or beet greens are excellent choices for this quick-and-easy healthy vegetable.
Yield: 4 Servings
Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes
View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/269.shtml
Ingredients
Garlic-flavored vegetable cooking spray
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-1/2 pounds greens, washed, stems removed, coarsely chopped
1/3 cup water
1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Spray large saucepan with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Saute onion and garlic until tender, 3 to 4 minutes.
Add greens and water to saucepan; heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until greens are wilted and tender, about 5 to 8 minutes, adding more water if necessary. Season to taste with lemon juice, salt and pepper.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 58; Protein: 5.9 g; Fat: 1.7 g; Sodium: 43 mg; Cholesterol: 53.3 mg; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Confessions' Classics
Today, I'm bringing back some of the recipes I've posted here, particularly early on. It's an extremely shortened blog, though. Enjoy!
BAKED ZITI
This was originally posted on April 2, 2010. Great for a yummy, easy meal.
What to fix when you've just gotten home from work and you want something good, hot and with a minimum amount of effort? Baked Ziti fits the bill on all three counts. And if you're like me, chances are you have all the makings in your cupboard and fridge.
Here's what it takes:
16 ounce box of ziti
26 ounce jar of spaghetti sauce
1 jar-full of water
2 C shredded cheese
Okay, I can hear you asking, "What brand of spaghetti sauce? What type of sauce? And the cheese...Cheddar? Mozzarella? Can it be the stuff already shredded and in a bag or does it have to be a block of cheese that I grate and measure?" Here's the good part: Use what you have.
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.
Take a 9 X 13 inch baking pan. Dump the dried ziti into the pan. (No, no, do NOT cook the ziti first. Dump the ziti uncooked straight from the box.) Pour the spaghetti sauce into the pan and add one jar-full of water into the pan. Stir to mix. Add most of the shredded cheese, reserving 1/4-1/2 cup of cheese. Stir to mix. Bake in pre-heated oven for 35 minutes. Top with remaining cheese and bake for another 5 minutes for a total time of 40 minutes.
Serve with a salad and possibly garlic bread.
See? Simple, hot, good and with at minimum amount of energy. What could be better for an after-work dinner?
JASON'S B-B-Q GLUTEN
One of the recipes originally posted on January 16, 2013. This is from my oldest son. Rather than reword any of this, the recipe is included exactly as he wrote it out for me, with one slight omission. (This stuff is definitely good.)
Ingredients:
5 lb. whole wheat flour
2 onions
1/2 creamy peanut butter
2 bottles of B-B-Q sauce
1 stick butter
2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons paprika
Huge bowl
Take whole wheat flour, empty into Big Bowl. Add enough water to knead into dough ball. Knead really well. I repeat, knead really well. For at least 10 minutes. Fill huge ass bowl with water, put dough ball under water for 2 hours. Pour off water and drowned roaches. Knead doughball under cold running water for 10 minutes or more. Water should be clear. You are washing out the starch and bran. You know it’s ready when stringy and it sticks together and is bouncy. Melt 1 stick butter and fry 2 chopped onions until clear. Dump onto Gluten. Add salt, paprika, and peanut butter. Mix with hands completely. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray cooking pan with non-stick spray. Pinch off pieces bigger than a golf ball. Take piece and fold it and twist it and lay it down in pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip over and bake for 10 more. Pour B-B-Q sauce and bake 10 more minutes, then flip and pour more B-B-Q sauce and bake 10 more minutes. It’s done—enjoy.
(Xtra note—be careful when you first mix wheat and water. Don’t add too much water. Make a hard dough ball. It might take 20 minutes to knead it.)
TWO SANDWICHES
This originally posted on January 11, 2013. For a number of years, my dad had a job that required a lot of travel. This was after my folks had split up, so the idea of being paid to travel the world on their dime seemed very appealing.
After one business trip, Dad sent me a short note; in it, he wrote, "In Canada I had two sandwiches which were new and delicious." The first one ended with, "GOOD!" Both sandwiches are definitely that.
BANANA-HAM SANDWICH
French bread, cut along long axis, without crust
1 cold banana
thinly sliced ham
Roll bread & thinly sliced ham around cold banana; deep fry about 15 seconds in very hot fat. Hot on outside & cold on the inside.
HAM & CHEESE SANDWICH
Ham & cheese on French bread but the bread is dropped in egg & fried (a la French Toast).
BAKED ZITI
This was originally posted on April 2, 2010. Great for a yummy, easy meal.
What to fix when you've just gotten home from work and you want something good, hot and with a minimum amount of effort? Baked Ziti fits the bill on all three counts. And if you're like me, chances are you have all the makings in your cupboard and fridge.
Here's what it takes:
16 ounce box of ziti
26 ounce jar of spaghetti sauce
1 jar-full of water
2 C shredded cheese
Okay, I can hear you asking, "What brand of spaghetti sauce? What type of sauce? And the cheese...Cheddar? Mozzarella? Can it be the stuff already shredded and in a bag or does it have to be a block of cheese that I grate and measure?" Here's the good part: Use what you have.
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.
Take a 9 X 13 inch baking pan. Dump the dried ziti into the pan. (No, no, do NOT cook the ziti first. Dump the ziti uncooked straight from the box.) Pour the spaghetti sauce into the pan and add one jar-full of water into the pan. Stir to mix. Add most of the shredded cheese, reserving 1/4-1/2 cup of cheese. Stir to mix. Bake in pre-heated oven for 35 minutes. Top with remaining cheese and bake for another 5 minutes for a total time of 40 minutes.
Serve with a salad and possibly garlic bread.
See? Simple, hot, good and with at minimum amount of energy. What could be better for an after-work dinner?
JASON'S B-B-Q GLUTEN
One of the recipes originally posted on January 16, 2013. This is from my oldest son. Rather than reword any of this, the recipe is included exactly as he wrote it out for me, with one slight omission. (This stuff is definitely good.)
Ingredients:
5 lb. whole wheat flour
2 onions
1/2 creamy peanut butter
2 bottles of B-B-Q sauce
1 stick butter
2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons paprika
Huge bowl
Take whole wheat flour, empty into Big Bowl. Add enough water to knead into dough ball. Knead really well. I repeat, knead really well. For at least 10 minutes. Fill huge ass bowl with water, put dough ball under water for 2 hours. Pour off water and drowned roaches. Knead doughball under cold running water for 10 minutes or more. Water should be clear. You are washing out the starch and bran. You know it’s ready when stringy and it sticks together and is bouncy. Melt 1 stick butter and fry 2 chopped onions until clear. Dump onto Gluten. Add salt, paprika, and peanut butter. Mix with hands completely. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray cooking pan with non-stick spray. Pinch off pieces bigger than a golf ball. Take piece and fold it and twist it and lay it down in pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip over and bake for 10 more. Pour B-B-Q sauce and bake 10 more minutes, then flip and pour more B-B-Q sauce and bake 10 more minutes. It’s done—enjoy.
(Xtra note—be careful when you first mix wheat and water. Don’t add too much water. Make a hard dough ball. It might take 20 minutes to knead it.)
TWO SANDWICHES
This originally posted on January 11, 2013. For a number of years, my dad had a job that required a lot of travel. This was after my folks had split up, so the idea of being paid to travel the world on their dime seemed very appealing.
After one business trip, Dad sent me a short note; in it, he wrote, "In Canada I had two sandwiches which were new and delicious." The first one ended with, "GOOD!" Both sandwiches are definitely that.
BANANA-HAM SANDWICH
French bread, cut along long axis, without crust
1 cold banana
thinly sliced ham
Roll bread & thinly sliced ham around cold banana; deep fry about 15 seconds in very hot fat. Hot on outside & cold on the inside.
HAM & CHEESE SANDWICH
Ham & cheese on French bread but the bread is dropped in egg & fried (a la French Toast).
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Weekday Meals - Summer's Winding Down
Summer is almost over: Labor Day is just around the corner, the kids will be heading back to school (if they haven't started back already), and cooler weather will be here soon. But while it's still summer, here are some more summer-ish recipes. Enjoy!
TURKEY RUBEN PRETZEL ROLLS
This is from Seattle's Macrina Bakery. While it calls for Macrina Bakery's pretzel rolls (and if I lived close enough, I'd definitely use them), I imagine you could use any decent rolls. The recipe starts off, “Our Pretzel Rolls are a wonderful foundation for sandwiches. This particular sandwich makes a perfect summer lunch or light dinner! I chose turkey not only because it is great with these flavor combinations, but also it is lighter and not overly salty with the pretzel roll.” Makes 4 sandwiches.
For The Sandwich:
4 Macrina Pretzel Rolls
1/2 cup roasted red pepper aioli
4 slices Gruyere cheese
1/4 cup sauerkraut
1/4 cup roasted spring or sweet onions
8 oz roast turkey, thinly sliced
For Roasted Red Pepper Aioli:
2 egg yolks
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 cup canola oil
1/4 cup roasted red pepper puree
Roasting Onions:
The best roasted onions are simply made by getting fresh spring onions or sweet onions from your neighborhood Farmers’ Market, slicing them fairly thin and tossing in olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes in a 350 degree oven until slightly brown at the edges.
Preparing Roasted Red Pepper Aioli:
Combine egg yolks, mustard and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Mix well with a whisk. Add canola oil in a slow stream, whisking as you pour. Continue until the mixture is fully incorporated and thickened. Add red pepper puree. Mix and season with salt and black pepper. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days! Great on grilled fish or chicken also!
Sandwich Assembly:
Cut the pretzel roll in half. Grill or warm up with butter in a sauté pan. A little color is good as it adds flavor! Brush each side with red pepper aioli. Lay sliced turkey on one side and top with roasted onions. Layer sauerkraut and Gruyere cheese on the other side. Place in sauté pan. Cover and warm until cheese is melted. This can also be done on a cookie sheet in the oven. Bring sandwich halves together and enjoy with your favorite dill and potato chips!
TOMATO COBBLER WITH CORNMEAL-CHEDDAR BISCUITS
If you've been following this blog for a while, you probably realize that The Kitchn is one of my favorite places to receive emails from. That, and its brother site, Apartment Therapy send out really cool emails, which I highly recommend signing up for. (And no, no one offered any compensation for plugging either site. I just think that they're majorly cool.)
That said, Faith Durand of The Kitchn wrote of this recipe, “I'm declaring this cobbler the Recipe of Summer. It take those pints of cherry tomatoes that you can't help bringing home from the farmers market and transforms them into silky, oh-so-tender bites. Plus, you know, cheddar biscuits. Trust me: it's worth turning on the oven for this one.” She also adds, “Make sure your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned for this recipe. Tomatoes are acidic, and they can dissolve the seasoning somewhat. This isn't a big deal with a well-seasoned skillet — just rub it with a little oil after cleaning — but it can set you back a few seasonings with a new skillet. New skillets can also sometimes give acidic foods an unpleasant metallic flavor.
“If you'd prefer not to use cast iron for this, you can also cook the cobbler in a 12-inch stainless steel skillet with high sides or in a 13x9-inch baking dish.
“On its own, this cobbler makes a very satisfying vegetarian main dish. One biscuit each, plus a generous scoop of warm tomatoes, and dig in! It's filling, but not actually too heavy — it still feels like a good summer dinner. It would also go nicely with some grilled chicken on the side.” Serves 6 to 8.
To view it online from her site, click here.
4 pints cherry tomatoes (3 1/2 to 4 pounds)
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
2 red onions, peeled and thinly sliced
1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup red wine (or 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the biscuits:
1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cornmeal
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
1 cup + 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided
3/4 to 1 cup buttermilk, plus extra to brush.
Heat the oven to 375°F with a rack placed in the middle of the oven.
Pick the stems off of the cherry tomatoes and rinse them under running water. Larger tomatoes can be sliced in half, but I generally just leave the tomatoes whole.
Warm the olive oil in a 12-inch cast-iron or high-sided stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. When warm, add the onions and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the onions are very soft and tender, at least 10 minutes, or if you have the patience, lower the heat and continue cooking for another 20 or 30 minutes to caramelize the onions.
Stir the garlic into the onions and cook until fragrant, 30 to 60 seconds. Pour in the wine (or balsamic) and cook until the wine has mostly evaporated. Stir in the flour and cook until the flour is paste-like. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of salt, carefully stirring and folding until the onions are evenly mixed with the tomatoes.
To prepare the biscuits, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse a few times to combine. Cut the cold butter into chunks and scatter it over the flour. Pulse a few times until the butter has been cut into pea-sized pieces.
Transfer the flour-and-butter mixture to a bowl and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar (reserve the other 1/2 cup for sprinkling over the top). Form a well in the middle and pour in 3/4 cup of buttermilk for firmer biscuits, or 1 cup of buttermilk for looser biscuits. Use a spatula to gently stir the buttermilk into the flour; continue stirring until all the buttermilk has been incorporated and no more dry flour remains. (Alternatively, you can make the biscuits entirely in a bowl and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut in the butter.)
Drop the dough over the tomatoes, making 7 to 8 biscuits. Brush the biscuits with a little buttermilk. Place the skillet on a baking sheet to catch drips, and then transfer to the oven.
Cook for 55 to 60 minutes, until the tomatoes are very bubbly and the tops of the biscuits are nicely browned. About 10 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle the tops of the biscuits with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar.
Remove from the oven and let the cobbler rest for at least 15 minutes before eating. Leftovers will keep for about a week.
Recipe Notes
This recipe can also be cooked in a 13x9-inch baking dish or other 3 quart baking dish. Prepare the tomato mixture in a skillet on the stovetop, then transfer to the baking dish, top with the biscuits, and bake until bubbly.
NO-COOK TOMATO SAUCE
Another yummy recipe from The Kitchn. Serves 4.
To view it online, click here.
6 medium-sized heirloom tomatoes, roughly chopped
4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
10 leaves basil, cut into ribbons (reserve a little for garnish)
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
Place tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil into a large serving bowl. Stir mixture until all tomatoes are coated with oil and garlic is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Cover the bowl and let everything marinate for about four hours on the counter at room temperature. Add salt and pepper to taste. The tomatoes will release their juices and flavors will meld. If you can't wait the full four hours, it's still tasty right out of the mixing bowl!
Serve over warm pasta or bread, with more fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
TOMATO SOUP CUPCAKES
One more recipe from The Kitchn. Faith Durand writes, “Yep, you read that right, Tomato Soup Cupcakes. I'm going retro today. I have to admit I had never even heard of these — that is until The Kitchn asked if I'd be up for the challenge of developing a recipe for this throwback treat.” My first thought was...WHAT? But then I decided to check it out.
You can find the recipe, along with everything Faith has to say about the cupcakes, here. Makes 14 to 16 cupcakes
For the cupcakes:
2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cups brown sugar, lightly packed
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, melted and warm
3 large eggs
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can tomato soup
1/2 cup hot water
For the frosting:
1 (7-ounce) container marshmallow fluff
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 (8-ounce) tub Cool Whip
To make cupcakes, preheat oven to 350°F. Line cupcake pan with liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, both sugars, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter and eggs. Add butter mixture into flour mixture and whisk to combine. Add the tomato soup and whisk to combine. Add in 1/4 cup of the hot water and whisk to combine. Pour in remaining hot water and whisk to combine.
Fill cupcake liners 3/4 of the way up and bake for 17 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out free of crumbs. Transfer cupcakes to a wire rack and cool completely before frosting.
To make frosting, combine the marshmallow fluff and cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer bowl and beat until combined. Turn off mixer and stir in Cool Whip.
Transfer the frosting to a pastry bag fitted with your preferred tip and pipe the frosting on to the cupcakes.
MEXICAN TURKEY SALAD
This recipe is from Diabetic Gourmet. Makes about 10 servings.
Online Recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/htmll/708.shtml
Ingredients
3 cups cooked, cubed turkey breast
1 can (15 oz.) corn, drained (1 3/4 cups)
1 can (15.5 oz.) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
1/2 cup peeled jicama, diced small
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2-3 Tbsp. fresh lime juice, or to taste
3/4 cup thick salsa
3 drops, or to taste, red pepper sauce (optional)
2-4 Tbsp. water
1/4 cup low-fat shredded Cheddar cheese for garnish (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro or flat-parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)
Directions
In a large bowl, place turkey, corn, beans, bell peppers and jicama. Gently toss until well mixed and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice. Mix in salsa. Add red pepper sauce if desired. Add enough water to thin consistency so dressing can be thinly drizzled over salad. Transfer to serving pitcher.
Drizzle dressing over turkey mixture, tossing to coat salad ingredients evenly.
Cover and chill 1 to 3 hours so flavors can meld. Bring to room temperature and check seasoning before serving. Add salt and pepper to taste, if desired. Drain off any excess dressing. Place in serving bowl. Sprinkle top of salad with cheese (if using) and cilantro. Serve with baked tortilla chips, if desired.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 238; Protein: 16 g; Fat: 13 g; Sodium: 413 mg; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g
PEACH THYME CRUMBLE
This comes from Rebecca Franklin, About.com's French Food guide. She writes, “Peaches and nectarines are one of the top varieties of fruit that so famously accent the Rhone Valley's world famous wine. Sweet, summery peaches (or nectarines, for a slightly different, refreshing twist) and snipped, fresh thyme baked into a buttery oat topping are reminiscent of a kitchen garden in the Rhone. This scrumptious peach thyme crumble recipe showcases the subtle flavors of summer and is a hit at parties. Serve it with a scoop of honey vanilla ice cream.”
To view this recipe online, as well as to sign up for Rebecca's emails, click here.
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Ingredients:
6 cups peeled, sliced peaches
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon fresh, chopped thyme
4 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup cold butter
Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 350F. Toss the sliced peaches in the lemon juice, zest, and chopped thyme. Stir together 4 tablespoons sugar and 1 tablespoon flour and sprinkle it over the seasoned peaches. Set the peach mixture aside for a moment.
Stir the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon together in a separate bowl. Using a pastry cutter, cut the cold butter into the mixture, until it has a sandy texture, with a few pea-sized lumps of butter remaining.
Spoon the prepared peaches into a 9-inch by 9-inch pan. Sprinkle the flour-oat mixture over the peaches. Bake the crumble for 25 to 35 minutes, until the fruit is hot and bubbly.
Allow the peach thyme crumble to cool for 30 minutes before serving it with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
This peach thyme crumble recipe makes 6 to 8 servings.
TURKEY RUBEN PRETZEL ROLLS
This is from Seattle's Macrina Bakery. While it calls for Macrina Bakery's pretzel rolls (and if I lived close enough, I'd definitely use them), I imagine you could use any decent rolls. The recipe starts off, “Our Pretzel Rolls are a wonderful foundation for sandwiches. This particular sandwich makes a perfect summer lunch or light dinner! I chose turkey not only because it is great with these flavor combinations, but also it is lighter and not overly salty with the pretzel roll.” Makes 4 sandwiches.
For The Sandwich:
4 Macrina Pretzel Rolls
1/2 cup roasted red pepper aioli
4 slices Gruyere cheese
1/4 cup sauerkraut
1/4 cup roasted spring or sweet onions
8 oz roast turkey, thinly sliced
For Roasted Red Pepper Aioli:
2 egg yolks
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 cup canola oil
1/4 cup roasted red pepper puree
Roasting Onions:
The best roasted onions are simply made by getting fresh spring onions or sweet onions from your neighborhood Farmers’ Market, slicing them fairly thin and tossing in olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes in a 350 degree oven until slightly brown at the edges.
Preparing Roasted Red Pepper Aioli:
Combine egg yolks, mustard and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Mix well with a whisk. Add canola oil in a slow stream, whisking as you pour. Continue until the mixture is fully incorporated and thickened. Add red pepper puree. Mix and season with salt and black pepper. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days! Great on grilled fish or chicken also!
Sandwich Assembly:
Cut the pretzel roll in half. Grill or warm up with butter in a sauté pan. A little color is good as it adds flavor! Brush each side with red pepper aioli. Lay sliced turkey on one side and top with roasted onions. Layer sauerkraut and Gruyere cheese on the other side. Place in sauté pan. Cover and warm until cheese is melted. This can also be done on a cookie sheet in the oven. Bring sandwich halves together and enjoy with your favorite dill and potato chips!
TOMATO COBBLER WITH CORNMEAL-CHEDDAR BISCUITS
If you've been following this blog for a while, you probably realize that The Kitchn is one of my favorite places to receive emails from. That, and its brother site, Apartment Therapy send out really cool emails, which I highly recommend signing up for. (And no, no one offered any compensation for plugging either site. I just think that they're majorly cool.)
That said, Faith Durand of The Kitchn wrote of this recipe, “I'm declaring this cobbler the Recipe of Summer. It take those pints of cherry tomatoes that you can't help bringing home from the farmers market and transforms them into silky, oh-so-tender bites. Plus, you know, cheddar biscuits. Trust me: it's worth turning on the oven for this one.” She also adds, “Make sure your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned for this recipe. Tomatoes are acidic, and they can dissolve the seasoning somewhat. This isn't a big deal with a well-seasoned skillet — just rub it with a little oil after cleaning — but it can set you back a few seasonings with a new skillet. New skillets can also sometimes give acidic foods an unpleasant metallic flavor.
“If you'd prefer not to use cast iron for this, you can also cook the cobbler in a 12-inch stainless steel skillet with high sides or in a 13x9-inch baking dish.
“On its own, this cobbler makes a very satisfying vegetarian main dish. One biscuit each, plus a generous scoop of warm tomatoes, and dig in! It's filling, but not actually too heavy — it still feels like a good summer dinner. It would also go nicely with some grilled chicken on the side.” Serves 6 to 8.
To view it online from her site, click here.
4 pints cherry tomatoes (3 1/2 to 4 pounds)
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
2 red onions, peeled and thinly sliced
1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup red wine (or 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the biscuits:
1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cornmeal
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
1 cup + 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided
3/4 to 1 cup buttermilk, plus extra to brush.
Heat the oven to 375°F with a rack placed in the middle of the oven.
Pick the stems off of the cherry tomatoes and rinse them under running water. Larger tomatoes can be sliced in half, but I generally just leave the tomatoes whole.
Warm the olive oil in a 12-inch cast-iron or high-sided stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. When warm, add the onions and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the onions are very soft and tender, at least 10 minutes, or if you have the patience, lower the heat and continue cooking for another 20 or 30 minutes to caramelize the onions.
Stir the garlic into the onions and cook until fragrant, 30 to 60 seconds. Pour in the wine (or balsamic) and cook until the wine has mostly evaporated. Stir in the flour and cook until the flour is paste-like. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of salt, carefully stirring and folding until the onions are evenly mixed with the tomatoes.
To prepare the biscuits, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse a few times to combine. Cut the cold butter into chunks and scatter it over the flour. Pulse a few times until the butter has been cut into pea-sized pieces.
Transfer the flour-and-butter mixture to a bowl and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar (reserve the other 1/2 cup for sprinkling over the top). Form a well in the middle and pour in 3/4 cup of buttermilk for firmer biscuits, or 1 cup of buttermilk for looser biscuits. Use a spatula to gently stir the buttermilk into the flour; continue stirring until all the buttermilk has been incorporated and no more dry flour remains. (Alternatively, you can make the biscuits entirely in a bowl and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut in the butter.)
Drop the dough over the tomatoes, making 7 to 8 biscuits. Brush the biscuits with a little buttermilk. Place the skillet on a baking sheet to catch drips, and then transfer to the oven.
Cook for 55 to 60 minutes, until the tomatoes are very bubbly and the tops of the biscuits are nicely browned. About 10 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle the tops of the biscuits with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar.
Remove from the oven and let the cobbler rest for at least 15 minutes before eating. Leftovers will keep for about a week.
Recipe Notes
This recipe can also be cooked in a 13x9-inch baking dish or other 3 quart baking dish. Prepare the tomato mixture in a skillet on the stovetop, then transfer to the baking dish, top with the biscuits, and bake until bubbly.
NO-COOK TOMATO SAUCE
Another yummy recipe from The Kitchn. Serves 4.
To view it online, click here.
6 medium-sized heirloom tomatoes, roughly chopped
4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
10 leaves basil, cut into ribbons (reserve a little for garnish)
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
Place tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil into a large serving bowl. Stir mixture until all tomatoes are coated with oil and garlic is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Cover the bowl and let everything marinate for about four hours on the counter at room temperature. Add salt and pepper to taste. The tomatoes will release their juices and flavors will meld. If you can't wait the full four hours, it's still tasty right out of the mixing bowl!
Serve over warm pasta or bread, with more fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
TOMATO SOUP CUPCAKES
One more recipe from The Kitchn. Faith Durand writes, “Yep, you read that right, Tomato Soup Cupcakes. I'm going retro today. I have to admit I had never even heard of these — that is until The Kitchn asked if I'd be up for the challenge of developing a recipe for this throwback treat.” My first thought was...WHAT? But then I decided to check it out.
You can find the recipe, along with everything Faith has to say about the cupcakes, here. Makes 14 to 16 cupcakes
For the cupcakes:
2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cups brown sugar, lightly packed
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, melted and warm
3 large eggs
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can tomato soup
1/2 cup hot water
For the frosting:
1 (7-ounce) container marshmallow fluff
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 (8-ounce) tub Cool Whip
To make cupcakes, preheat oven to 350°F. Line cupcake pan with liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, both sugars, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter and eggs. Add butter mixture into flour mixture and whisk to combine. Add the tomato soup and whisk to combine. Add in 1/4 cup of the hot water and whisk to combine. Pour in remaining hot water and whisk to combine.
Fill cupcake liners 3/4 of the way up and bake for 17 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out free of crumbs. Transfer cupcakes to a wire rack and cool completely before frosting.
To make frosting, combine the marshmallow fluff and cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer bowl and beat until combined. Turn off mixer and stir in Cool Whip.
Transfer the frosting to a pastry bag fitted with your preferred tip and pipe the frosting on to the cupcakes.
MEXICAN TURKEY SALAD
This recipe is from Diabetic Gourmet. Makes about 10 servings.
Online Recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/htmll/708.shtml
Ingredients
3 cups cooked, cubed turkey breast
1 can (15 oz.) corn, drained (1 3/4 cups)
1 can (15.5 oz.) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
1/2 cup peeled jicama, diced small
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2-3 Tbsp. fresh lime juice, or to taste
3/4 cup thick salsa
3 drops, or to taste, red pepper sauce (optional)
2-4 Tbsp. water
1/4 cup low-fat shredded Cheddar cheese for garnish (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro or flat-parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)
Directions
In a large bowl, place turkey, corn, beans, bell peppers and jicama. Gently toss until well mixed and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice. Mix in salsa. Add red pepper sauce if desired. Add enough water to thin consistency so dressing can be thinly drizzled over salad. Transfer to serving pitcher.
Drizzle dressing over turkey mixture, tossing to coat salad ingredients evenly.
Cover and chill 1 to 3 hours so flavors can meld. Bring to room temperature and check seasoning before serving. Add salt and pepper to taste, if desired. Drain off any excess dressing. Place in serving bowl. Sprinkle top of salad with cheese (if using) and cilantro. Serve with baked tortilla chips, if desired.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 238; Protein: 16 g; Fat: 13 g; Sodium: 413 mg; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g
PEACH THYME CRUMBLE
This comes from Rebecca Franklin, About.com's French Food guide. She writes, “Peaches and nectarines are one of the top varieties of fruit that so famously accent the Rhone Valley's world famous wine. Sweet, summery peaches (or nectarines, for a slightly different, refreshing twist) and snipped, fresh thyme baked into a buttery oat topping are reminiscent of a kitchen garden in the Rhone. This scrumptious peach thyme crumble recipe showcases the subtle flavors of summer and is a hit at parties. Serve it with a scoop of honey vanilla ice cream.”
To view this recipe online, as well as to sign up for Rebecca's emails, click here.
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Ingredients:
6 cups peeled, sliced peaches
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon fresh, chopped thyme
4 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup cold butter
Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 350F. Toss the sliced peaches in the lemon juice, zest, and chopped thyme. Stir together 4 tablespoons sugar and 1 tablespoon flour and sprinkle it over the seasoned peaches. Set the peach mixture aside for a moment.
Stir the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon together in a separate bowl. Using a pastry cutter, cut the cold butter into the mixture, until it has a sandy texture, with a few pea-sized lumps of butter remaining.
Spoon the prepared peaches into a 9-inch by 9-inch pan. Sprinkle the flour-oat mixture over the peaches. Bake the crumble for 25 to 35 minutes, until the fruit is hot and bubbly.
Allow the peach thyme crumble to cool for 30 minutes before serving it with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
This peach thyme crumble recipe makes 6 to 8 servings.
Monday, August 18, 2014
Another Meatless Monday
Another Meatless Monday, which means vegetarian food. (Yay!) Enjoy!
GLUTEN-FREE TERIYAKI SAUCE
This comes from the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 38. The recipe starts off, “Use this all-purpose sauce to marinate tofu, top vegetables, season rice, and flavor stir-fries.” Makes 1 1/2 cups in 30 minutes or less. To view online, click here.
1 Tbs. cornstarch
1/4 cup Bragg Liquid Aminos or gluten-free tamari or soy sauce
1 Tbs. toasted sesame oil
1 Tbs. finely grated onion
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 tsp. grated fresh ginger
1 tsp. mirin or rice wine
3 Tbs. brown rice syrup
1 Tbs. sesame seeds, optional
Place cornstarch in small saucepan, and slowly whisk in Liquid Aminos until no lumps remain. Whisk in 3/4 cup water, then sesame oil, onion, garlic, ginger, and mirin. Bring to a boil over medium-low heat, and boil 1 minute, or until thickened, whisking constantly. Remove from heat, and stir in brown rice syrup and sesame seeds (if using).
nutritional information Per 1-Tbs. Serving: Calories: 16; Protein: less than 1 g; Total Fat: less than 1 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 3 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 114 mg; Fiber: less than 1 g; Sugar: 2 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
GRILLED VEGETABLE PANZANELLA
From the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 27. The recipe starts off, “Grilled summer vegetables require little seasoning to taste spectacular in this hearty bread salad.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.
To view online, click here.
4 slices rustic French bread (8 oz.)
1 12-oz. pkg. cherry tomatoes
16 large green beans (4 oz.)
1 large yellow squash, quartered lengthwise
2 Tbs. olive oil
2 Tbs. white balsamic vinegar
1 large clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 small head radicchio, diced
1 oz. chilled blue cheese, crumbled or coarsely grated (1/3 cup)
4 hard-boiled eggs, roughly chopped
Coat grill pan or basket with cooking spray, and preheat over medium heat.
Grill bread slices 3 to 4 minutes per side until crisp and lightly charred. Slice into cubes, and transfer to large bowl.
Coat tomatoes, green beans, and squash lightly with cooking spray, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Arrange in separate groups on prepared grill pan or in grill basket. Grill 8 minutes, or until squash and beans are charred and just tender, and tomatoes are splitting open, turning vegetables occasionally.
Transfer all but 4 tomatoes to medium bowl. Press tomatoes in bowl slightly to release juices. Spoon tomatoes, and then their juices, over toast cubes.
Whisk together oil, vinegar, and garlic in large serving bowl. Add remaining 4 tomatoes, mash coarsely, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cut green beans and squash crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces. Add cut vegetables, radicchio, and blue cheese to bowl with dressing. Toss to coat. Add bread cube mixture, and toss to coat. Sprinkle chopped eggs over top.
nutritional information Per 2-cup serving: Calories: 361; Protein: 15 g; Total Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 39 g; Cholesterol: 192 mg; Sodium: 533 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 8 g
LATE SUMMER SUCCOTASH
If you're like me, you're probably signed up for several emailing lists, some definitely better than others. One of my favorite ones comes from Vegetarian Times. Their email dated August 8, 2014, has several lima bean recipes. Mary Margaret Chappell, Vegetarian Times' food editor, writes, “Growing up in the South, late summer meant lima beans for supper at least once a week. Everybody in my family grew them, and whenever there weren't enough in the garden, there was always a truck or two parked on a main road selling them alongside tomatoes and corn. Come August, I start to crave them. Fresh are ideal, but frozen will also do when seasoned with butter or olive oil, salt, and pepper (I can make a meal out of just a bowl of them) or added to other summery recipes.” Having grown up in New York (state, not city) and Connecticut, I can tell you that lima beans made it to our table several times a month. To this day, I still love them.
The Late Summer Succotash is from page 70 of V.T.'s September 2007 issue. It serves 6 in 30 minutes or less, and starts out, “What better way to make the most of end-of-summer produce than with a sunny succotash that can also be served cold as a salad? Feel free to use frozen lima beans—simply substitute a 10-oz. bag of thawed frozen beans, and skip step one. If you can’t find white balsamic vinegar, try white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.”
2 cups shelled lima beans or 1 10-oz. pkg. frozen baby lima beans, thawed
1 Tbs. butter
1 tsp. olive oil
1 small red onion, diced (1 cup)
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 cup fresh or frozen corn
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley
2 Tbs. chopped fresh basil
1 Tbs. white balsamic vinegar
If using fresh lima beans, bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add beans, and blanch 2 to 3 minutes, or until tender but not soft.
Heat butter and oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until it begins to brown. Add garlic, and cook 1 minute more.
Stir in lima beans, and sauté 5 minutes. Add corn and tomatoes, and sauté 1 minute more, or until heated through, but tomatoes have not released their juices. Remove from heat, and stir in parsley, basil, and vinegar. Serve warm or chilled.
nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 179; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 4.5 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 28 g; Cholesterol: 8 mg; Sodium: 240 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 5 g;Gluten-Free
BOW TIMES WITH FENNEL, GREEN BEANS AND BABY LIMAS
This one is from the April 2000 issue of Vegetarian Times, and starts out, “Most of us prefer our green beans briefly cooked just until they're crisp-tender and bright green. Slightly longer cooking may dim the color, but it brings out the beans' inherent sweetness. Braising them with lima beans, tomatoes and fennel creates a delightful sauce for pasta.” Serves 4 to 6.
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 medium bulb fennel, chopped (1 cup)
4 medium cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbs. fennel seeds, lightly crushed
3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup frozen baby lima beans
6 oz. green beans, trimmed and halved (1 1/2 cups)
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 cup canned crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup kalamata olives, rinsed, halved and pitted
1⁄3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper
12 oz. dried bow-tie pasta (farfalle)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (2 oz.; optional)
Bring large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
Meanwhile, in large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and fennel and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and fennel seeds and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Stir in broth and lima beans and bring to a simmer.
Stir in green beans and salt, reduce heat to medium and simmer until all beans are tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
Add tomatoes and olives and simmer, stirring occasionally, until flavors have blended, about 5 minutes. Stir in parsley and pepper.
Shortly before sauce is ready, add bow ties to boiling water; stir to prevent sticking. Cook, stirring often, until just tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and place in large warm serving bowl. Add bean mixture and toss to coat. Serve sprinkled with Parmesan if desired.
nutritional information Per Serving: Calories: 338; Protein: 12 g; Total Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 50 g; Sodium: 726 mg; Fiber: 9 g; Vegan
TOMATO COBBLER WITH CORNMEAL-CHEDDAR BISCUITS
If you've been following this blog for a while, you probably realize that The Kitchn is one of my favorite places to receive emails from. That, and its brother site, Apartment Therapy send out really cool emails, which I highly recommend signing up for. (And no, no one offered any compensation for plugging either site. I just think that they're majorly cool.)
That said, Faith Durand of The Kitchn wrote of this recipe, “I'm declaring this cobbler the Recipe of Summer. It take those pints of cherry tomatoes that you can't help bringing home from the farmers market and transforms them into silky, oh-so-tender bites. Plus, you know, cheddar biscuits. Trust me: it's worth turning on the oven for this one.” She also adds, “Make sure your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned for this recipe. Tomatoes are acidic, and they can dissolve the seasoning somewhat. This isn't a big deal with a well-seasoned skillet — just rub it with a little oil after cleaning — but it can set you back a few seasonings with a new skillet. New skillets can also sometimes give acidic foods an unpleasant metallic flavor.
“If you'd prefer not to use cast iron for this, you can also cook the cobbler in a 12-inch stainless steel skillet with high sides or in a 13x9-inch baking dish.
“On its own, this cobbler makes a very satisfying vegetarian main dish. One biscuit each, plus a generous scoop of warm tomatoes, and dig in! It's filling, but not actually too heavy — it still feels like a good summer dinner. It would also go nicely with some grilled chicken on the side.” Serves 6 to 8.
To view it online from her site, click here.
4 pints cherry tomatoes (3 1/2 to 4 pounds)
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
2 red onions, peeled and thinly sliced
1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup red wine (or 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the biscuits:
1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cornmeal
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
1 cup + 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided
3/4 to 1 cup buttermilk, plus extra to brush.
Heat the oven to 375°F with a rack placed in the middle of the oven.
Pick the stems off of the cherry tomatoes and rinse them under running water. Larger tomatoes can be sliced in half, but I generally just leave the tomatoes whole.
Warm the olive oil in a 12-inch cast-iron or high-sided stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. When warm, add the onions and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the onions are very soft and tender, at least 10 minutes, or if you have the patience, lower the heat and continue cooking for another 20 or 30 minutes to caramelize the onions.
Stir the garlic into the onions and cook until fragrant, 30 to 60 seconds. Pour in the wine (or balsamic) and cook until the wine has mostly evaporated. Stir in the flour and cook until the flour is paste-like. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of salt, carefully stirring and folding until the onions are evenly mixed with the tomatoes.
To prepare the biscuits, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse a few times to combine. Cut the cold butter into chunks and scatter it over the flour. Pulse a few times until the butter has been cut into pea-sized pieces.
Transfer the flour-and-butter mixture to a bowl and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar (reserve the other 1/2 cup for sprinkling over the top). Form a well in the middle and pour in 3/4 cup of buttermilk for firmer biscuits, or 1 cup of buttermilk for looser biscuits. Use a spatula to gently stir the buttermilk into the flour; continue stirring until all the buttermilk has been incorporated and no more dry flour remains. (Alternatively, you can make the biscuits entirely in a bowl and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut in the butter.)
Drop the dough over the tomatoes, making 7 to 8 biscuits. Brush the biscuits with a little buttermilk. Place the skillet on a baking sheet to catch drips, and then transfer to the oven.
Cook for 55 to 60 minutes, until the tomatoes are very bubbly and the tops of the biscuits are nicely browned. About 10 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle the tops of the biscuits with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar.
Remove from the oven and let the cobbler rest for at least 15 minutes before eating. Leftovers will keep for about a week.
Recipe Notes
This recipe can also be cooked in a 13x9-inch baking dish or other 3 quart baking dish. Prepare the tomato mixture in a skillet on the stovetop, then transfer to the baking dish, top with the biscuits, and bake until bubbly.
FAT-FREE VEGAN PASTA SALAD
This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian Food guide. Jolinda writes, “Make a fat-free vegetarian pasta salad by using fat-free Italian salad dressing. Seasoned with fresh herbs, this fat-free pasta salad is both vegetarian and vegan.”
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups bowtie or corkscrew pasta
1 cup broccoli, chopped small
1 12 ounce can water-packed artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 purple onion, diced
1 red or yellow bell pepper, diced
1 12 ounce can green beans, diced
1 -2 tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup sliced black olives
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
3/4 cup fat-free vegan Italian salad dressing
salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water. Drain and allow to cool.
Lightly steam the broccoli, until just tender.
In a large bowl, toss together the pasta, broccoli and remaining ingredients and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Allow to marinate in the refrigerator at least one hour before serving. Toss again before serving.
Makes 6 servings fat-free pasta salad.
Nutritional information per serving: Calories: 171; Calories from Fat: 14% Daily Value: Total Fat: 1.6g; 2%; Trans Fat: 0.0g; Cholesterol: 0mg; 0%; Sodium: 544mg; 23%; Total Carbohydrates: 34.4g; 11% Dietary Fiber: 7.4g; 30% Protein: 7.2g;Vitamin A 28%, Vitamin C 98%, Calcium 9%, Iron 15%
GLUTEN-FREE TERIYAKI SAUCE
This comes from the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 38. The recipe starts off, “Use this all-purpose sauce to marinate tofu, top vegetables, season rice, and flavor stir-fries.” Makes 1 1/2 cups in 30 minutes or less. To view online, click here.
1 Tbs. cornstarch
1/4 cup Bragg Liquid Aminos or gluten-free tamari or soy sauce
1 Tbs. toasted sesame oil
1 Tbs. finely grated onion
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 tsp. grated fresh ginger
1 tsp. mirin or rice wine
3 Tbs. brown rice syrup
1 Tbs. sesame seeds, optional
Place cornstarch in small saucepan, and slowly whisk in Liquid Aminos until no lumps remain. Whisk in 3/4 cup water, then sesame oil, onion, garlic, ginger, and mirin. Bring to a boil over medium-low heat, and boil 1 minute, or until thickened, whisking constantly. Remove from heat, and stir in brown rice syrup and sesame seeds (if using).
nutritional information Per 1-Tbs. Serving: Calories: 16; Protein: less than 1 g; Total Fat: less than 1 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 3 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 114 mg; Fiber: less than 1 g; Sugar: 2 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free
GRILLED VEGETABLE PANZANELLA
From the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 27. The recipe starts off, “Grilled summer vegetables require little seasoning to taste spectacular in this hearty bread salad.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.
To view online, click here.
4 slices rustic French bread (8 oz.)
1 12-oz. pkg. cherry tomatoes
16 large green beans (4 oz.)
1 large yellow squash, quartered lengthwise
2 Tbs. olive oil
2 Tbs. white balsamic vinegar
1 large clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 small head radicchio, diced
1 oz. chilled blue cheese, crumbled or coarsely grated (1/3 cup)
4 hard-boiled eggs, roughly chopped
Coat grill pan or basket with cooking spray, and preheat over medium heat.
Grill bread slices 3 to 4 minutes per side until crisp and lightly charred. Slice into cubes, and transfer to large bowl.
Coat tomatoes, green beans, and squash lightly with cooking spray, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Arrange in separate groups on prepared grill pan or in grill basket. Grill 8 minutes, or until squash and beans are charred and just tender, and tomatoes are splitting open, turning vegetables occasionally.
Transfer all but 4 tomatoes to medium bowl. Press tomatoes in bowl slightly to release juices. Spoon tomatoes, and then their juices, over toast cubes.
Whisk together oil, vinegar, and garlic in large serving bowl. Add remaining 4 tomatoes, mash coarsely, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cut green beans and squash crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces. Add cut vegetables, radicchio, and blue cheese to bowl with dressing. Toss to coat. Add bread cube mixture, and toss to coat. Sprinkle chopped eggs over top.
nutritional information Per 2-cup serving: Calories: 361; Protein: 15 g; Total Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 39 g; Cholesterol: 192 mg; Sodium: 533 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 8 g
LATE SUMMER SUCCOTASH
If you're like me, you're probably signed up for several emailing lists, some definitely better than others. One of my favorite ones comes from Vegetarian Times. Their email dated August 8, 2014, has several lima bean recipes. Mary Margaret Chappell, Vegetarian Times' food editor, writes, “Growing up in the South, late summer meant lima beans for supper at least once a week. Everybody in my family grew them, and whenever there weren't enough in the garden, there was always a truck or two parked on a main road selling them alongside tomatoes and corn. Come August, I start to crave them. Fresh are ideal, but frozen will also do when seasoned with butter or olive oil, salt, and pepper (I can make a meal out of just a bowl of them) or added to other summery recipes.” Having grown up in New York (state, not city) and Connecticut, I can tell you that lima beans made it to our table several times a month. To this day, I still love them.
The Late Summer Succotash is from page 70 of V.T.'s September 2007 issue. It serves 6 in 30 minutes or less, and starts out, “What better way to make the most of end-of-summer produce than with a sunny succotash that can also be served cold as a salad? Feel free to use frozen lima beans—simply substitute a 10-oz. bag of thawed frozen beans, and skip step one. If you can’t find white balsamic vinegar, try white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.”
2 cups shelled lima beans or 1 10-oz. pkg. frozen baby lima beans, thawed
1 Tbs. butter
1 tsp. olive oil
1 small red onion, diced (1 cup)
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 cup fresh or frozen corn
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley
2 Tbs. chopped fresh basil
1 Tbs. white balsamic vinegar
If using fresh lima beans, bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add beans, and blanch 2 to 3 minutes, or until tender but not soft.
Heat butter and oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until it begins to brown. Add garlic, and cook 1 minute more.
Stir in lima beans, and sauté 5 minutes. Add corn and tomatoes, and sauté 1 minute more, or until heated through, but tomatoes have not released their juices. Remove from heat, and stir in parsley, basil, and vinegar. Serve warm or chilled.
nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 179; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 4.5 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 28 g; Cholesterol: 8 mg; Sodium: 240 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 5 g;Gluten-Free
BOW TIMES WITH FENNEL, GREEN BEANS AND BABY LIMAS
This one is from the April 2000 issue of Vegetarian Times, and starts out, “Most of us prefer our green beans briefly cooked just until they're crisp-tender and bright green. Slightly longer cooking may dim the color, but it brings out the beans' inherent sweetness. Braising them with lima beans, tomatoes and fennel creates a delightful sauce for pasta.” Serves 4 to 6.
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 medium bulb fennel, chopped (1 cup)
4 medium cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbs. fennel seeds, lightly crushed
3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup frozen baby lima beans
6 oz. green beans, trimmed and halved (1 1/2 cups)
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 cup canned crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup kalamata olives, rinsed, halved and pitted
1⁄3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper
12 oz. dried bow-tie pasta (farfalle)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (2 oz.; optional)
Bring large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
Meanwhile, in large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and fennel and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and fennel seeds and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Stir in broth and lima beans and bring to a simmer.
Stir in green beans and salt, reduce heat to medium and simmer until all beans are tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
Add tomatoes and olives and simmer, stirring occasionally, until flavors have blended, about 5 minutes. Stir in parsley and pepper.
Shortly before sauce is ready, add bow ties to boiling water; stir to prevent sticking. Cook, stirring often, until just tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and place in large warm serving bowl. Add bean mixture and toss to coat. Serve sprinkled with Parmesan if desired.
nutritional information Per Serving: Calories: 338; Protein: 12 g; Total Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 50 g; Sodium: 726 mg; Fiber: 9 g; Vegan
TOMATO COBBLER WITH CORNMEAL-CHEDDAR BISCUITS
If you've been following this blog for a while, you probably realize that The Kitchn is one of my favorite places to receive emails from. That, and its brother site, Apartment Therapy send out really cool emails, which I highly recommend signing up for. (And no, no one offered any compensation for plugging either site. I just think that they're majorly cool.)
That said, Faith Durand of The Kitchn wrote of this recipe, “I'm declaring this cobbler the Recipe of Summer. It take those pints of cherry tomatoes that you can't help bringing home from the farmers market and transforms them into silky, oh-so-tender bites. Plus, you know, cheddar biscuits. Trust me: it's worth turning on the oven for this one.” She also adds, “Make sure your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned for this recipe. Tomatoes are acidic, and they can dissolve the seasoning somewhat. This isn't a big deal with a well-seasoned skillet — just rub it with a little oil after cleaning — but it can set you back a few seasonings with a new skillet. New skillets can also sometimes give acidic foods an unpleasant metallic flavor.
“If you'd prefer not to use cast iron for this, you can also cook the cobbler in a 12-inch stainless steel skillet with high sides or in a 13x9-inch baking dish.
“On its own, this cobbler makes a very satisfying vegetarian main dish. One biscuit each, plus a generous scoop of warm tomatoes, and dig in! It's filling, but not actually too heavy — it still feels like a good summer dinner. It would also go nicely with some grilled chicken on the side.” Serves 6 to 8.
To view it online from her site, click here.
4 pints cherry tomatoes (3 1/2 to 4 pounds)
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
2 red onions, peeled and thinly sliced
1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup red wine (or 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the biscuits:
1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cornmeal
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
1 cup + 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided
3/4 to 1 cup buttermilk, plus extra to brush.
Heat the oven to 375°F with a rack placed in the middle of the oven.
Pick the stems off of the cherry tomatoes and rinse them under running water. Larger tomatoes can be sliced in half, but I generally just leave the tomatoes whole.
Warm the olive oil in a 12-inch cast-iron or high-sided stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. When warm, add the onions and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the onions are very soft and tender, at least 10 minutes, or if you have the patience, lower the heat and continue cooking for another 20 or 30 minutes to caramelize the onions.
Stir the garlic into the onions and cook until fragrant, 30 to 60 seconds. Pour in the wine (or balsamic) and cook until the wine has mostly evaporated. Stir in the flour and cook until the flour is paste-like. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of salt, carefully stirring and folding until the onions are evenly mixed with the tomatoes.
To prepare the biscuits, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse a few times to combine. Cut the cold butter into chunks and scatter it over the flour. Pulse a few times until the butter has been cut into pea-sized pieces.
Transfer the flour-and-butter mixture to a bowl and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar (reserve the other 1/2 cup for sprinkling over the top). Form a well in the middle and pour in 3/4 cup of buttermilk for firmer biscuits, or 1 cup of buttermilk for looser biscuits. Use a spatula to gently stir the buttermilk into the flour; continue stirring until all the buttermilk has been incorporated and no more dry flour remains. (Alternatively, you can make the biscuits entirely in a bowl and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut in the butter.)
Drop the dough over the tomatoes, making 7 to 8 biscuits. Brush the biscuits with a little buttermilk. Place the skillet on a baking sheet to catch drips, and then transfer to the oven.
Cook for 55 to 60 minutes, until the tomatoes are very bubbly and the tops of the biscuits are nicely browned. About 10 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle the tops of the biscuits with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar.
Remove from the oven and let the cobbler rest for at least 15 minutes before eating. Leftovers will keep for about a week.
Recipe Notes
This recipe can also be cooked in a 13x9-inch baking dish or other 3 quart baking dish. Prepare the tomato mixture in a skillet on the stovetop, then transfer to the baking dish, top with the biscuits, and bake until bubbly.
FAT-FREE VEGAN PASTA SALAD
This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian Food guide. Jolinda writes, “Make a fat-free vegetarian pasta salad by using fat-free Italian salad dressing. Seasoned with fresh herbs, this fat-free pasta salad is both vegetarian and vegan.”
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups bowtie or corkscrew pasta
1 cup broccoli, chopped small
1 12 ounce can water-packed artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 purple onion, diced
1 red or yellow bell pepper, diced
1 12 ounce can green beans, diced
1 -2 tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup sliced black olives
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
3/4 cup fat-free vegan Italian salad dressing
salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water. Drain and allow to cool.
Lightly steam the broccoli, until just tender.
In a large bowl, toss together the pasta, broccoli and remaining ingredients and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Allow to marinate in the refrigerator at least one hour before serving. Toss again before serving.
Makes 6 servings fat-free pasta salad.
Nutritional information per serving: Calories: 171; Calories from Fat: 14% Daily Value: Total Fat: 1.6g; 2%; Trans Fat: 0.0g; Cholesterol: 0mg; 0%; Sodium: 544mg; 23%; Total Carbohydrates: 34.4g; 11% Dietary Fiber: 7.4g; 30% Protein: 7.2g;Vitamin A 28%, Vitamin C 98%, Calcium 9%, Iron 15%
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