Confessions of a Foodie

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Friday, September 30, 2016

Friday Recipes

Enjoy!

BUSH’S® BEST BLACK BEAN SALAD

This comes from Bush's® Best's emailed newsletter. Check it out for more recipes! This one starts off, “This colorful Black Bean salad is dressed with a light, lime vinaigrette and only takes a few minutes to prepare. Serve with tortilla chips or as a side dish.” Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 0 minutes; Total Time: 15 minutes; Servings: 6 to 8

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) BUSH'S® Black Beans, rinsed and drained

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 yellow bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup diced red onion

1 can (15.25 oz) corn, drained

1 clove garlic, chopped

1 tsp cilantro

1/4 cup olive oil

4 Tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp lime juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Tortilla chips

Directions

In a small bowl, combine peppers, onion, corn, garlic and cilantro.

Add olive oil, vinegar, lime juice and salt and pepper to taste. Add black beans and toss well.

Serve with tortilla chips.

GRILLED SWEET POTATO SKEWERS WITH HONEY MUSTARD

This yummy recipe, which would be perfect for a Labor Day cookout, is from Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian Food expert. She writes, “Need an easy crowd-pleasing vegetarian dish to throw on the grill? Everyone loves sweet potatoes, especially kids, so try these simple grilled sweet potato skewers with savory-sweet honey mustard. The recipe calls for sweet potatoes, green and red bell peppers, red onions, a little bit of salt and pepper, and of course, some honey mustard.

“This grilled sweet potato skewers with honey mustard recipe is the perfect vegetarian barbecue recipe for sweet potato lovers. Be careful if you're planning on serving this dish to vegans, however, as many vegans avoid eating honey. This recipe is gluten-free.” Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Yield: 3 – 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 pounds medium-sized sweet potatoes (5 potatoes, 6 to 7 ounces each)

1 large sweet red and/or green peppers, cut in 1-inch squares

1 medium red onion, cut in 1-inch pieces, layers separated

1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil

salt and pepper, to taste

about 1/4 cup honey mustard

2 tbsp water

Preparation

First, prepare your sweet potatoes by giving them head a head start in the microwave. Prick them a bit with a fork, then place them in the microwave on high for three minutes. Turn them over (carefully!), then microwave for another 1-2 minutes, until almost tender and soft, but not quite.

Allow your sweet potatoes to cool, then peel them if you'd like, and chop coarsely into about 1-inch chunks.

Next, combine the sweet potatoes, chopped red and green bell peppers and red onion in a large bowl.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey mustard and the two tablespoons of water, then add to the sweet potatoes, peppers and onions in the bowl, tossing very gently to lightly coat.

Next, prepare your skewers, by threading a mixture of sweet potatoes, onions and peppers.

Make sure your pre-heated grill (or indoor grill pan) is lightly greased. Grill your sweet potato skewers for about 4 minutes on each side, brushing with any remaining honey mustard.

Note: If you don't have an outdoor grill or an indoor grill pan, you can still make this recipe using your oven's broiler.

KUNG PAO CHICKEN

This was posted by Daring Gourmet in tbsp. (tablespoon)’s website. She wrote, “One of the most popular dishes throughout China and the Western world alike, this sweet and spicy chicken dish is not for the faint of taste buds. It packs a punch, or should we say, ‘PAO, right in the kisser!’” Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; makes 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil

6-10 dried hot red chili peppers (or less according to heat preference), seeded and membranes removed (gloves recommended)

1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced

3/4 cup dry roasted peanuts

1 bunch green onions (about 6 green onions)

For the Marinade:

1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine or sherry

3/4 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup black Chinese vinegar or dark balsamic vinegar

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil

3 tablespoons white sugar

2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

2 teaspoons cornstarch

Directions

Combine the marinade ingredients in a small bowl and pour over the chicken pieces. Toss to coat and let the chicken sit while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Combine all the sauce ingredients in a bowl, stirring until the cornstarch and sugar is dissolved. Set aside.

Heat the oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Fry the chilies for a few seconds until they turn darker in color.

Add the chicken and marinade and fry until no longer pink. Add the garlic, ginger, and white parts of the green onions and fry for two minutes. Add the sauce and stir until thickened. Reduce the heat to medium-high and stir in the peanuts. Simmer for one minute. Remove from heat and stir in the green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

VERY BLUEBERRY SUNDAES

Yield: 4 servings

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/793.shtml

Ingredients

Sauce:

1 cup frozen blueberries

3 tablespoons orange juice OR 2 tablespoons orange juice plus 1 tablespoon orange liqueur

Sugar substitute equal to 2 tablespoons sugar

Rest of ingredients:

2 cups low-fat vanilla ice cream

1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or sliced toasted almonds

Directions

To make the sauce, place the blueberries, orange juice, and sugar substitute in a mini food processor and process until smooth. Set aside for about 15 minutes, until the mixture has thawed. Or transfer to a covered container and chill until ready to use.

To assemble the sundaes, place a 1/2 cup scoop of ice cream in each of 4 dessert dishes. Top the ice cream in each dish with a quarter of the sauce and a sprinkling of the nuts. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 176; Protein: 3.9 g; Fat: 7.6 g; Sodium: 50 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 2.8 g; Carbohydrates: 25 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Carbohydrate, 1-1/2 Fat

ROASTED TOMATO AND CORN RISOTTO WITH ARUGULA BASIL PESTO

This comes from Heather Christo on The Today Show’s recipes site. The recipe begins, “Risotto is one of the most versatile recipes out there; you can add virtually any ingredients you like—from beets or red wine and bacon to zucchini or butternut squash—and create a beautiful, tasty, seasonal dish. Since this version omits the Parmesan cheese and butter typically added to risottos, it is a lighter dish, and the flavors of whatever ingredients you add really get a chance to shine. If you stir diligently, the final result will still be quite creamy. This pesto sauce features blanched garlic, arugula, and basil, which mellows the garlic flavor and gives the sauce a bright green color that doesn't turn brown like most other pestos.” Cook Time: 30 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 6 - 8.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Roasted Vegetables

1⁄4 cup raw corn kernels

2 cups cherry tomatoes

2 tablespoons olive oil

Arugula Basil Pesto

3 cloves garlic

2 cups packed fresh basil leaves

4 cups packed arugula leaves

1⁄4 cup olive oil

1⁄4 cup rice vinegar

Kosher salt

Risotto

6 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock)

1⁄4 cup olive oil

1 yellow onion, finely diced

1 1/2 cups Arborio rice

1 cup raw corn kernels

Kosher salt

2 cups fresh arugula

1 avocado, peeled and diced

1 teaspoon olive oil

Kosher salt

Small fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

To prepare the roasted vegetables: Preheat the oven to 450º F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the corn kernels and the cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet and drizzle the oil over the top.

To make the arugula basil pesto: Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Fill a bowl with ice and water. Add the garlic cloves to the boiling water. After 20 seconds, add the basil and arugula and blanch for 8 to 10 seconds. Scoop out the basil, arugula, and garlic with a large strainer and immediately plunge into the ice water.

Wring the herbs of the extra water and put them in a blender with the blanched garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. Puree on high until smooth and then season with salt. Set aside.

To make the risotto: In a medium pot, heat the chicken stock over medium-low heat.

In a large heavy pan or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes, until soft.

Add the rice and cook, stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the rice is translucent except for a white center.

Start adding the hot chicken stock 1 cup at a time while continuously stirring with a wooden spoon. As the stock is absorbed, add another cup. Continue until all the stock has been incorporated and the rice is cooked to al dente. This should take about 20 minutes. In the final minute, add the corn.

Remove from the heat and stir in the basil arugula pesto. Season with salt.

Seven minutes before the risotto is to be finished, put the tomatoes and corn in the oven and roast for 7 minutes, until sizzling and golden. The tomatoes will burst.

In a small bowl, gently toss the arugula and avocado with the olive oil and a little salt.

Spoon the risotto into bowls and top with some of the salad and roasted cherry tomatoes. Garnish with the roasted corn and some small fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Thursday, September 29, 2016

Diabetic Thursday

Since it's Thursday - which, on this blog, means Diabetic Thursday - I'm posting six diabetic recipes to try your hand at. Enjoy!

CHOCOLATE-CHUNK BANANA NUT BREAD

Serves: 18; serving size: 1 (1/2 inch) slice

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

6 (1 ounce) squares Bakers* Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate

2 eggs

1 cup mashed ripe bananas

1/3 cup oil

1/4 cup milk

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 9x5-inch loaf pan. Set aside.

Combine flour, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside. Coarsely chop baking chocolate bars.

Mix eggs, bananas, oil, and milk in a large bowl until well blended. Add dry ingredients; stir until just moistened. Stir in chopped chocolate and walnuts.

Pour into greased loaf pan.

Bake for 45 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes. Remove from pan; cool completely on wire rack.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 180; Calories from Fat: 90; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 105 mg; Cholesterol: 25 mg; Saturated Fat: 2.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g

BASIL FOCACCIA WEDGES

Yield: 12 servings.

Serving size: 2 pieces.

Source: "The Heart-Smart Diabetes Kitchen: Fresh, Fast and Flavorful Recipes Made with Canola Oil"

Photo & Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1216.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 Tbsp canola oil, divided

1 cup thinly sliced green bell pepper

1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion

1/2 pkg (8 oz) sliced mushrooms

2 medium cloves garlic, minced

1 pkg (13.8 oz) focaccia-style, refrigerated pizza dough

1/4 tsp dried red pepper flakes

1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

2 small plum tomatoes, cut into 12 rounds total

1/2 cup (2 oz) shredded part-skim mozzarella

2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

16 pitted kalamata olives, chopped

Directions

Preheat oven to 400F. Heat 1 Tbsp canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper and onions; cook 2 minutes. Add mushrooms; cook 2 minutes, using two utensils to stir easily. Add garlic, cook 15 seconds and set aside.

On baking sheet, drizzle remaining 1/2 Tbsp canola oil. Use fingertips to spread oil evenly. Unroll dough onto baking sheet and shape into an 11 x 8 inch rectangle. Top dough with pepper flakes and mushroom mixture, spooning as close to edges as possible. Top with basil and arrange tomatoes in 12 even sections.

Bake 12 minutes. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella. Bake 6 more minutes or until deep golden on edges. Top with Parmesan and sprinkle evenly with olives. Allow to cool to room temperature.

When serving, cut into 12 squares, and then cut each square in half diagonally to make 24 pieces total.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 125; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 4.5 g; Sodium: 320 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g ; Carbohydrates: 18 g

LEEK-MUSHROOM SOUP

Prep Time: 25 Minutes - Cost: $
Servings: 8 - Difficulty Level: 2

Source: Suzi Castle's Deliciously Healthy Favorite Foods

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/121.shtml

Ingredients

6 large leeks

1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 tsp dried tarragon leaves

1/3 cup flour

1/4 tsp white pepper

2 cups low-fat (1% fat) milk

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Directions

Trim root ends and tough, dark green tops off leeks. Split leeks lengthwise, rinse with water, and slice thinly to make 1 quart of cut leeks.

In a large, heavy soup pot sprayed with nonstick spray, cook leeks, mushrooms, garlic, tarragon and pepper over medium-high heat, stirring often for 15 minutes. Cover pot if vegetables become too dry.

In a blender, mix flour with milk. Add to cooked vegetables. Add chicken broth and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 115; Protein: 9 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 407 mg; Cholesterol: 4 mg; Carbohydrates: 16 g; Exchanges: 2 vegetable; 1/2 low-fat milk

CRANBERRY CABBAGE SLAW

Yield: 10 servings

Serving Size: 1 cup slaw

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1233.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup halved cranberries

1/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

2 oranges, peeled and thinly sliced

1 red onion, thinly sliced

4 cups shredded cabbage

1 large apple - peeled, cored and chopped

1/4 cup fat-free mayonnaise

Directions

In a small bowl, toss together the cranberries and Splenda Granulated Sweetener. Cover and refrigerate.

In a large bowl, toss together the oranges, onion, cabbage, apple and mayonnaise until evenly coated. When ready to serve add cranberry mixture and toss again.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 50; Protein: 1 g; Sodium: 50 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Sugars: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g

GRILLED ONION BURGER

Here's a healthier version of a classic burger topped with grilled onions and all the fixings.

Makes 4 servings

Photo & Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1223.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds 95% lean ground beef

1 large sweet onion, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices

Vegetable oil

Salt and pepper

4 hamburger buns, split, toasted

Lettuce leaves

Tomato slices

Directions

Lightly shape Ground Beef into four 3/4-inch thick patties. Brush onion slices with oil.

Place patties and onion slices on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 11 to 15 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 13 to 14 minutes) until instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160F, turning occasionally. Grill onions, 10 to 12 minutes or until tender, brushing with oil and turning occasionally.

Season burgers and onions with salt and pepper as desired.

Line bottom of each bun with lettuce. Place burgers on top of lettuce. Top with tomatoes and grilled onions. Close bun.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 368; Protein: 39 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 324 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g ; Dietary Fiber: 2 g ; Carbohydrates: 27 g

CHOCOLATE CHIP SCONES

Prep Time: 25 Minutes - Cost: $
Servings: 10 - Difficulty Level: 3

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/130.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp salt

1 T sugar

1 T brown sugar

1 T cold light butter or light margarine, suitable for baking

1/2 cup plain nonfat yogurt

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray baking sheet with cooking spray.

In a medium bowl, combine flours, baking powder, salt, and sugars. WIth pastry blender or two knives, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Using a rubber spatula, stir in yogurt, extract and chips until mixture holds together and forms a ball.

Place dough ball on prepared baking sheet. Pat into a 9-inch circle. Using a sharp knife, mark dough into 12 wedges, cutting into, but not through, dough.

Bake 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cut into wedges and serve warm. Or, cool and store covered and/or freeze up to 3 months. To reheat, bake uncovered at 350 degrees F. for 5 to 10 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 136; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 181 mg; Cholesterol: 4 mg; Carbohydrates: 24 g; Exchanges: 1 starch; 1/2 fruit and 1/2 fat (2 carb choices)

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Wednesday Recipes

Enjoy!

TEXAS CHILI

One of my dad’s recipes. Whenever Dad fixed this, he’d have to make 2 batches of chili: this for those brave enough to try it, another for everyone else, somewhat cooler. This is from my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.

3 balls ground beef suet

3/4 tsp. black pepper

4 slices back, cut

1/4 tsp. cayenne

2 lbs. stew beef, cut small

6-9 T chili powder

2 lbs. chopped chuck

2-4 walnut-size pieces suet

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 Bermuda onions

1 T paprika

1 can beef broth

1 tsp. oregano

3 cans measured water

3/4 tsp. cumin

6 C tomatoes & juice

1 2/3 T salt

1 1/2 lbs. drained kidney beans

In heavy pot place 3 balls suet with bacon. Cook out fat. Add & brown beef & chopped chuck. After browning, add garlic. Cook lightly. Add remainder of spices. In another pot, heat 2-4 pieces of suet. Add onions. Cook until almost burned. Add to meat pot. Deglaze pot with meat broth. Add water, tomatoes & juice. Mash tomatoes into chili. Cover & simmer slowly 1 1/2 – 2 hours. Uncover. Cook down for about 1/2 hour, adding kidney beans. Serves 6-8.

ROASTED TOMATO AND CORN RISOTTO WITH ARUGULA BASIL PESTO

This comes from Heather Christo on The Today Show’s recipes site. The recipe begins, “Risotto is one of the most versatile recipes out there; you can add virtually any ingredients you like—from beets or red wine and bacon to zucchini or butternut squash—and create a beautiful, tasty, seasonal dish. Since this version omits the Parmesan cheese and butter typically added to risottos, it is a lighter dish, and the flavors of whatever ingredients you add really get a chance to shine. If you stir diligently, the final result will still be quite creamy. This pesto sauce features blanched garlic, arugula, and basil, which mellows the garlic flavor and gives the sauce a bright green color that doesn't turn brown like most other pestos.” Cook Time: 30 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 6 - 8.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Roasted Vegetables

1⁄4 cup raw corn kernels

2 cups cherry tomatoes

2 tablespoons olive oil

Arugula Basil Pesto

3 cloves garlic

2 cups packed fresh basil leaves

4 cups packed arugula leaves

1⁄4 cup olive oil

1⁄4 cup rice vinegar

Kosher salt

Risotto

6 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock)

1⁄4 cup olive oil

1 yellow onion, finely diced

1 1/2 cups Arborio rice

1 cup raw corn kernels

Kosher salt

2 cups fresh arugula

1 avocado, peeled and diced

1 teaspoon olive oil

Kosher salt

Small fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

To prepare the roasted vegetables: Preheat the oven to 450º F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the corn kernels and the cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet and drizzle the oil over the top.

To make the arugula basil pesto: Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Fill a bowl with ice and water. Add the garlic cloves to the boiling water. After 20 seconds, add the basil and arugula and blanch for 8 to 10 seconds. Scoop out the basil, arugula, and garlic with a large strainer and immediately plunge into the ice water.

Wring the herbs of the extra water and put them in a blender with the blanched garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. Puree on high until smooth and then season with salt. Set aside.

To make the risotto: In a medium pot, heat the chicken stock over medium-low heat.

In a large heavy pan or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes, until soft.

Add the rice and cook, stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the rice is translucent except for a white center.

Start adding the hot chicken stock 1 cup at a time while continuously stirring with a wooden spoon. As the stock is absorbed, add another cup. Continue until all the stock has been incorporated and the rice is cooked to al dente. This should take about 20 minutes. In the final minute, add the corn.

Remove from the heat and stir in the basil arugula pesto. Season with salt.

Seven minutes before the risotto is to be finished, put the tomatoes and corn in the oven and roast for 7 minutes, until sizzling and golden. The tomatoes will burst.

In a small bowl, gently toss the arugula and avocado with the olive oil and a little salt.

Spoon the risotto into bowls and top with some of the salad and roasted cherry tomatoes. Garnish with the roasted corn and some small fresh basil leaves, if desired.

SUMMER VEGETABLE GRATIN

This is from Julia Moskin in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Julia wrote, “Cooking some of the ingredients beforehand is the key to a rich-tasting, nonsoggy gratin of summer vegetables: It pulls out water and concentrates flavors. The recipe has three layers — aromatics, vegetables and topping — but you can omit the topping to make it just two. Be sure to use fresh bread, nothing hard and stale, in that topping. Fluffy bits, not sandy shards, make the best crust.” Yield: 8 to 12 servings; Time: 1 1/ 2 hours.

This was featured in “Building a Better Vegetable Gratin” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

For the Base Layer:

2 medium onions, thinly sliced

1/4 cup olive oil

2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced, or 2 additional onions

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

4 cloves garlic, smashed

For the Optional Tomato-Bread Crumb Topping:

1 1/2 pounds plum or other ripe tomatoes

1/4 cup olive oil

1 baguette

1 cup shredded Parmesan or Gruyère cheese

For the Gratin:

1/4 cup olive oil, more for baking

1 1/2 pounds zucchini, sliced 1/4-inch thick

1 1/2 pounds yellow squash, sliced 1/4-inch thick

1/4 cup freshly chopped basil or parsley, more for garnish

Salt and black pepper

Preparation

Make the base layer: In a large, heavy ovenproof skillet or enameled cast-iron pan (10 to 12 inches across), combine onions and olive oil and heat to a sizzle, stirring to separate. Add bell peppers, red pepper flakes and garlic. Cook, stirring, over low heat until peppers are very soft and onions are browned, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and remove garlic, leaving remaining mixture in the pan.

Meanwhile, make the topping (if using): Core tomatoes and slice them 1/4 inch thick. Lay on paper towels to drain for 10 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add tomatoes and cook very slowly, turning once or twice, until liquid has bubbled away and flesh is cooked through, about 8 minutes. (Do not overcook, or tomatoes will fall apart.) Turn off heat and let slices cool in skillet; they will continue to dry out. Tear baguette into pieces and pulse in a food processor to make coarse, fluffy, pea-size crumbs. Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil and the cheese and pulse to combine.

Assemble the gratin: Heat oven to 425 degrees. (If your oven has a convection feature, use it, reducing baking temperature to 400 degrees.) In a large bowl, combine oil, zucchini and squash, and toss well until lightly and evenly coated. Add basil, sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, and toss again.

On top of the base layer in pan, arrange squash and zucchini slices around the inner rim of the pan, standing on their edges in roughly alternating colors. Pat down into the pan so slices overlap and lie down, like shingles or fallen dominoes. Repeat to make another circle inside the first, and again if necessary, until pan is filled. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Brush oil over the top of the gratin and transfer to oven. Bake 30 minutes. Raise oven temperature to 450 degrees (425 degrees for convection), or heat the broiler.

If not using topping, brush surface again with oil. If using topping, arrange tomato slices in one layer on top of the par-baked gratin. Spread bread-cheese mixture over tomatoes and press down gently.

Bake or broil until vegetables are browned around the edges or crust is crisp and golden. Let cool slightly and serve hot or at warm room temperature. Garnish each serving with herbs.

KATHARINE HEPBURN'S BROWNIES

This came in a recent New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. It begins, “Much like its author, this recipe is a no-fuss classic. It calls for just 1/4 cup of flour, which yields an incredibly rich and gooey brownie, and it's super easy to make. So easy, in fact, that baking a batch of these might just become part of your weekend routine.” Time: about 45 minutes; makes 12 brownies

To view this recipe online, click here.

Ingredients

1/2 cup cocoa

1/2 cup butter (1 stick)

2 eggs

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup flour

1 cup chopped or broken-up walnuts or pecans

1 teaspoon vanilla

Pinch of salt

Preparation

Heat oven to 325 degrees.

Melt butter in saucepan with cocoa and stir until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a large bowl. Whisk in eggs, one at a time. Stir in vanilla.

In a separate bowl, combine sugar, flour, nuts and salt. Add to the cocoa-butter mixture. Stir until just combined.

Pour into a greased 8 x 8-inch-square pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes. Do not overbake; the brownies should be gooey. Let cool, then cut into bars.

QUICK VEGAN CROCK POT APPLE CRUMBLE

This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com’s vegetarian Food expert. Jolinda wrote, “A quick and easy recipe for a vegan apple crumble (just like an apple crisp, if you prefer!) that you can make in your crockpot or slow cooker. Make sure to read the ingredients of whatever kind of granola you use, as many are not vegan.

“Refined sugar-free and vegan, this apple crumble or apple crisp recipe takes just minutes to prepare. It's made from fresh sliced apples sweetened with a bit of maple syrup (use real maple syrup, not bottled flavored corn syrup!) and topped off with a crumble granola, cinnamon and nutmeg topping. Using granola for the top of this apple crumble means that there's no bowls to get dirty and nothing to mix. Just sprinkle everything over the top of your crock pot or slow cooker.

“Like waking up to a hot and delicious breakfast or coming home to a sweet dessert already ready to go? You might also want to try this recipe for crockpot peach cobbler or scroll down for a few more vegetarian and vegan crockpot recipes including a few desserts.

“Enjoy!” Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 480 minutes (8 hours); Total Time: 500 minutes; Yield: about 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Note: Jolinda’s Cranberry Peach Cobbler recipe follows immediately after this recipe.

Ingredients

4 apples, sliced

2 tbsp maple syrup

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

2 tbsp margarine

2 cups granola

Preparation

Place apples in your crock pot or slow cooker. Drizzle with maple syrup, spices and margarine, then cover with granola.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.

CRANBERRY PEACH COBBLER

As promised this also comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com’s vegetarian Food expert. Jolinda wrote, “Crock Pot Cranberry Peach Cobbler makes for a sweet breakfast treat or a light dessert. The cranberries add texture and color, making for a vibrant and tasty recipe. Serve your crockpot peach cobbler recipe plain or with a dollop of whipped cream. This recipe is both vegetarian and vegan.”

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

5-6 peaches, sliced

2 tbsp flour

1/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup dried cranberries

1/4 tsp cinnamon

2/3 cup quick cooking oats

1 cup water

3 tbsp melted margarine

3/4 cup brown sugar

Preparation

Toss the peaches in the flour and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add the cranberries, cinnamon and oats.

Place the water and peach mixture into the crock pot or slow cooker. Pour the the margarine over the peaches and and sprinkle with the brown sugar.

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until peaches are tender.

Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Tuesday Recipes - Three Stroganoffs and More

Enjoy!

BEEF STROGANOFF

One of the recipes my Mom gave me. This and the next two recipes (Poor Man’s Stroganoff and Stroganoff) are from my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.

1/2 C finely chopped onions

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 lb. mushrooms, sliced

2 T tomato paste

1/3 C butter

3/4 tsp. Worchester sauce

1 1/2 lb. chuck, cut up

1/4 C sour cream

2 T flour

1/2 C heavy cream

1 C bouillon

1 1/3 C white rice

1/2 C butter

Sauté onions & mushrooms separately, cooking each in butter until tender. Remove & set aside. Roll beef in flour & brown in remaining butter. Add bouillon, salt & onions. Cover & simmer until beef is tender (about 1-1/2 hours). Add tomato paste, Worchester sauce, sour cream, heavy cream & mushrooms. Heat thoroughly. Meanwhile, cook rice & add butter.

STROGANOFF

This was from the wife of a now forgotten coworker.

1 lb. hamburger

1-2 cans cream of mushroom soup

2 onions, chopped

1 C sour cream

1 green pepper, chopped

Brown hamburger, onions & pepper. Pour off fat. When brown, add soup & stir in. Add sour cream and lower heat. Stir once or twice, then serve with noodles.

POOR MAN'S STROGANOFF

It seems that everyone has at least one stroganoff recipe. This one, as well as the recipe for Fast Chicken Curry, are from my dad. This one ends, “service with hot Italian bread, vegetables, and tossed salad. Services four. Total time with rice about 45 minutes.”

1 1/2 lbs. hamburger

1/2 onion, diced

1 can condensed mushroom soup

1 small can mushrooms

pepper & salt

1 pt. sour cream

4 T margarine

Brown onion in margarine. Add hamburger & brown slowly. Add pepper & salt to taste. Add 1/2 can water to mushroom soup & add to hamburger. Simmer 5 minutes. Add mushrooms & simmer 5 more minutes. Add sour cream, stir & bring again to simmer. Serve over brown rice.

ELEVEN MADISON PARK GRANOLA

This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Sam wrote, “At the end of every meal at the restaurant Eleven Madison Park, in Manhattan, guests are presented with a small gift: a jar of granola for tomorrow’s breakfast. It is classic Alpine fare, taken straight from the chef Daniel Humm’s childhood in Zurich. The rolled oats are golden with brown sugar and a hint of maple, with salt and a wisp of olive oil for depth. Coconut chips and shelled pistachios provide a hint of whimsy, pumpkin seeds a leathery crunch. Dried sour cherries peek out from here and there, bits of softness to complete the whole. Best of all, the recipe is simple and bulletproof for anyone with a rimmed baking sheet and an oven, at least if you're careful with the kosher salt. Opinions vary greatly over the amount we call for: a whole tablespoon. For some, that is many teaspoons too many. (For many others it is absolutely perfect.) Season to taste.” Yield: 6 cups; Time: 40 minutes.

This was featured in “Liquid Nitrogen Optional” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

2 3/4 cups rolled oats

1 cup shelled pistachios

1 cup unsweetened coconut chips

1/3 cup pumpkin seeds

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1/2 cup light brown sugar

1/3 cup maple syrup

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

3/4 cup dried sour cherries

Preparation

Preheat oven to 300. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, pistachios, coconut, pumpkinseeds and salt.

In a small saucepan set over low heat, warm the sugar, syrup and olive oil until the sugar has just dissolved, then remove from heat. Fold liquids into the mixture of oats, making sure to coat the dry ingredients well.

Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, and spread granola over it. Bake until dry and lightly golden, 35 to 40 minutes, stirring granola a few times along the way.

Remove granola from oven, and mix into it the dried sour cherries. Allow to cool to room temperature before transferring to a storage container. Makes about 6 cups.

FRUIT SALAD

This is from Nigella Lawson, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Nigella wrote, “Orange-fleshed fruits, blueberries and pomegranate are all known to be supercharged with antioxidants, which scientists and dietitians say are good for us. Well, they might or might not be right, but any way you mix it, a salad of fresh mango, blueberries and pomegranate seeds, squirted with a little fresh lime juice, makes you feel good. I know all the vitamins are most present when the salad is freshly made, but I like to have a container of this ready in the fridge. It tastes so juicily wonderful and looks so beautiful that you would never know there was any reason to eat it save for the pleasure alone.” Yield: 1 to 2 servings; Time: 10 minutes.

This was featured in “AT MY TABLE; For January, Tasty Dollops Of Penance” and can be viewed here.

Ingredients

1 ripe mango

1 cup blueberries

1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

2 teaspoons lime juice

Preparation

Cut through mango skin as if to cut mango in two, but do not cut through fruit. Peel off skin of one side.

Cut through fruit in a crosshatch pattern, then slice down against stone so cubes of mango fall into a bowl. Repeat with other half.

Add blueberries and pomegranate seeds to bowl, and sprinkle with lime juice. Toss well and serve.

MACARONI SALAD WITH CHEESE AND HAM

This comes from Diana Rattray, About.com’s Southern Food expert. Diana wrote, “Diced ham and cheese make this a hearty macaroni salad, a good choice for a cookout or potluck.” Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Yield: 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked macaroni

1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham

1 cup diced or shredded (large shred) Cheddar cheese

1/2 cup chopped celery

1/3 cup chopped green bell pepper

2 tablespoons chopped pimento

1/4 chopped green onion

1/4 cup sweet pickle relish

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon prepared mustard

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation

Cook the macaroni in boiling salted water as directed on package, drain and cool.

In a large bowl, combine the macaroni with the ham, cheese, celery, bell pepper, pimiento, and green onion. Toss to blend.

In another bowl combine the relish, mayonnaise, and mustard. Add to macaroni mixture; stir gently to blend. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, as needed.

Chill and serve.

Monday, September 26, 2016

Meatless Monday

Here are today's six vegetarian recipes for your Meatless Monday. Enjoy!

STRAWBERRY-RHUBARB UPSIDE-DOWN CAKE

This is from Molly O'Neil in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Molly wrote, “This humble dessert would never win a beauty contest when pitted against a towering layer cake swirled with frosting, but what it lacks in looks, it makes up in flavor and simplicity of preparation. The cake itself is light yet moist and soaks up the juice released by the strawberries and rhubarb while baking. Sliced almonds add a gentle crunch. It can be a bit tricky to unmold, so don't forget to line the pan with parchment and grease it generously with butter.” Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes; makes 8 to 10 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

The topping:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus 1 to 2 teaspoons for greasing the pan

3/4 cup light-brown sugar

1/3 cup sliced almonds

1 pint strawberries (about 12 ounces), stemmed, hulled and halved

3 cups rhubarb, trimmed, cut across into 1/4-inch-thick slices, blanched for 2 minutes and drained well

The cake:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup sugar

2 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9-inch round pan (at least 2 inches deep) with parchment paper and grease the parchment with 1 to 2 teaspoons softened butter. To make the topping, melt 4 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan. Add the brown sugar to the remaining butter and cook until the sugar is melted, stirring until smooth. Spread the mixture evenly over the bottom of the pan. Scatter the almonds over the brown-sugar mixture. Arrange the strawberries over the almonds in concentric circles, cut-side up. Top with the rhubarb and set aside.

To make the cake, using an electric mixer cream the butter and sugar until very light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat well. Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt. Combine the vanilla with the milk. Add the flour mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined.

Spread the batter over the fruit in the pan. Bake until the cake springs back when touched in the center, about 1 hour. (Cover the cake with foil if the top browns too much before the cake is done.) Remove the cake from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes. Turn out onto a cake plate. Replace any fruit that sticks to the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature.

GLAZED LEMON COCONUT BARS

This is from the infamous long-since-forgotten-emailing-list. It starts off, “Coconut and freshly grated lemon peel add zing to an all-time favorite bar.” Prep time: 15 min; Start to finish: 1 hr 50 min; Makes: 12 bars

Bars

1 cup Bisquick Heart Smart mix

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

2 tablespoons firm margarine or butter

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup flaked coconut

1 tablespoon Bisquick Heart Smart mix

2 teaspoons grated lemon peel

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1/2 cup fat free egg product

Lemon glaze

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Heat oven to 350F.

In small bowl, mix 1 cup Bisquick mix and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar. Cut in margarine, using pastry blender (or pulling 2 table knives through mixture in opposite directions), until crumbly.

Press in ungreased 8-inch square pan.

Bake uncovered about 10 minutes or until light brown.

Meanwhile, in small bowl, mix all remaining bar ingredients.

Pour coconut mixture over baked layer.

Bake about 25 minutes longer or until set and golden brown. Loosen edges from sides of pan while warm.

In small bowl, mix glaze ingredients until smooth. Spread over bars.

Cool completely, about 1 hour.

For bars, cut into 4 rows by 3 rows.

TOFU AND SPINACH STUFFED SHELLS

This comes from the April/May 2015 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 40. It begins, “Olive oil–poached garlic gives tofu a deep, mellow flavor, while miso and vinegar provide a cheese-like tang.” Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

6 oz. jumbo pasta shells

12 cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced

1/4 cup olive oil

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

2 Tbs. unpasteurized apple cider vinegar

2 tsp. lemon juice

2 tsp. white miso

5 oz. baby spinach leaves (6 cups)

1 24-oz. jar prepared pasta sauce

2 Tbs. chopped Kalamata olives, optional

2 Tbs. chopped green olives, optional

Preheat oven to 375°F.

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

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

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

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

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

nutritional information Per 3 stuffed shells: Calories: 343; Protein: 13 g; Total Fat: 14 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 42 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 562 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 11 g; Vegan

THREE-BEAN SOUP

This is one of my favorite quick meals that I usually only fix on weekends, especially if it happens to be cold and/or rainy. It’s from the November/December 2005 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 37, in that issue’s “30 Minutes; Quick, Fast Food” section. This vegan recipe serves 6, and starts off, “Here’s a straight-from-the-pantry soup that’ll become a weeknight favorite. (Or, in my case, weekend favorite.) Pureeing one of the cans of beans creates a creamy base without adding extra fat or cholesterol. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and serve with vegetable chips, if desired.”

2 Tbs. vegetable oil

1 large onion, diced (about 2 cups)

1 15.5-oz. can navy beans, drained and rinsed

1 15.5-oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed

6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 Tbs.)

2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or water

1 15.5-oz. can great Northern beans, drained and rinsed

Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Saute onion 2 to 3 minutes, or until soft. Add navy beans, black beans and garlic, and continue cooking and stirring 8 to 10 minutes more. Stir in 1 cup broth.

Meanwhile, put great Northern beans and remaining 1 cup broth into food processor or blender, and puree until smooth. Pour puree into soup. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Thin with more broth or water, if desired.

Spoon into individual soup bowls, and serve hot.

Per serving: 231 calories; 13 g protein; 5 g total fat (0 g saturated fat); 39 g carbs; 0 mg cholesterol; 557 mg sodium; 11 g fiber; 5 g sugars

BAKED ZITI

This was originally posted on April 2, 2010. Great for a yummy, easy meal. One of my inventions - though there are variations of this floating around.

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 or weekend dinner?

BAKED VEGETABLE MEDLEY

This is from the January 2003 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 22. It begins, “The crust for this vegetable-filled pie may be made from ready-made, store-bought dough that you roll out and fit into a pie plate. Or, for a no-fuss meal, start with a premade frozen pie crust. This is a meal-in-a-slice, calling only for a light dessert of fruit and nuts.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/baked-vegetable-medley/.

One 9-inch unbaked frozen pie shell

2 Tbs. olive oil

1 large leek, thinly sliced

1 tsp. minced garlic

1/2 bunch kale, shredded

2/3 cup chunky seasoned tomato sauce

1 1/2 cups artichoke hearts, drained

6 oz. smoked tofu, cut into thin strips

1 cup grated low-fat mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 375F. Reserve strips of leek for garnish.

Bake pie shell until golden, about 10 minutes, or according to package directions. Remove from oven, and set aside. Increase oven temperature to 450F.

Heat olive oil in large skillet over med-ium heat. When hot, sauté leek and garlic for about 5 minutes. Add kale and tomato sauce, stirring often, and cook until kale wilts and leeks are translucent. Add artichoke hearts.

Fill baked pie shell, and arrange tofu pieces decoratively on top. Sprinkle grated cheese over top, and bake 5 minutes more. Increase oven temperature to broil, and heat until cheese browns, about 1 minute.

nutritional information Per Serving: Calories: 420; Protein: 18 g; Total Fat: 25 g; Saturated Fat: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 34 g; Cholesterol: 20 mg; Sodium: 510 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 3 g

Friday, September 23, 2016

Friday Recipes

Finally, it's the weekend - the first official fall weekend. To go with that, here are six recipes to help you through the weekend. Enjoy!

CHICKEN PAILLARDS WITH CORN SALAD

This comes from Florence Fabricant in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Florence wrote, “This recipe brings together leafy herbs, the whisper of sweetness in fresh corn and summer squash, a ripe tomato, and a splash of lemon, creating a salad with farm-stand allure. It is served it with chicken paillards, and the meal would go great with a bottle of dry German riesling.” Yield: 4 servings; Time: 30 minutes.

This was featured in “A Salad With Farm-Stand Allure”, and can be found online here.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 skinless and boneless chicken breasts, about 1 1/4 pounds, pounded thin

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup chopped onion

2 ears corn, kernels stripped

1 jalapeño chile, seeded and minced

1 medium-size yellow summer squash, diced

Salt and ground black pepper

1 medium yellow tomato, diced

1/3 cup flour

2 tablespoons minced cilantro leaves

Preparation

Mix mustard and 1/4 cup lemon juice in a shallow dish. Cut each chicken breast in half (lengthwise, so you have two thin filets) and place in the mustard mixture. Turn to coat both sides and set aside.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet, add onion and sauté on low a few minutes, until softened. Add corn, chile and squash and continue to cook until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat, fold in tomato, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice and set aside.

Remove chicken from marinade, dust with flour and season with salt and pepper. Heat remaining oil in a large cast-iron skillet or grill pan on medium-high heat and sear chicken, turning once, until lightly browned and just cooked through, about 5 minutes a side. Arrange on a serving platter. Add cooking oil to salad, fold in cilantro and spoon over and around chicken.

GARBANZOS AND GREENS WITH CHORIZO

This comes from David Tanis, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Yield: 4 to 6 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Chickpeas and Broth:

1 cup dried chickpeas (garbanzo beans)

1/2 onion, stuck with a clove

1 small carrot, peeled, cut in 2-inch chunks

1 small bay leaf

Salt

For the Garbanzos and Greens:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)

Salt and pepper

6 ounces Spanish chorizo, diced

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1/4 teaspoon pimentón

1 teaspoon cumin seeds, lightly toasted and coarsely ground

1 pound kale or chard, washed and cut in wide ribbons

1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted, optional

Preparation

Pick over chickpeas, put them in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Soak for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.

Drain chickpeas (they should have swelled considerably) and put them in a soup pot. Cover with 6 cups water, add the onion stuck with clove, the carrot and the bay leaf. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower heat and let chickpeas simmer gently. Skim any foam that rises to the surface. Cook for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until chickpeas are tender. (If chickpeas seem to be drying out during cooking, add 1/2 cup water to keep them submerged in liquid.) Season generously with salt, and leave chickpeas to cool in the broth (cooking liquid). You should have about 2 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas. (They may be cooked a day in advance, if desired.)

Put olive oil in a deep, wide skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the chorizo and let it fry a bit, then turn heat to medium. Add the garlic, pimentón and 1/2 teaspoon of the cumin, and stir to coat. Add the cooked chickpeas and 1/2 cup broth. Bring to a simmer, add the greens and sprinkle with a little salt. Stir to allow the greens to wilt. Put on the lid and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until greens are completely cooked. Stir well, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. To serve as a tapa or side dish, transfer to a cazuela or deep serving platter. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cumin and the pine nuts, if using. Alternatively, to serve as soup, spoon the garbanzo-and-greens mixture into 4 deep soup bowls. Ladle 1 cup heated broth into each bowl, and sprinkle soup with the remaining cumin.

BUSH’S® APPLE PUMPKIN CAKE

This comes from Bush’s® Beans. It starts off, “Full of classic fall flavors, this delicious cake can be topped with whipped cream or your favorite cream cheese icing. Pureed BUSH'S® Country Style Baked Beans add a surprising sweetness.” Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 12.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 can (16 oz) BUSH’S® Country Style Baked Beans

1 pkg (16.25 oz) spice cake mix

3 large eggs

1/2 cup classic applesauce

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix)

Directions

Remove the bacon from the can of Country Style Baked Beans. Pour the can of beans and sauce into a blender and puree.

Combine the cake mix, use 3/4 cup of the pureed beans (discard small amount of remaining puree) and 3 eggs in a mixing bowl and mix well.

Add the applesauce and pumpkin and mix well till all ingredients are combined.

Spoon batter into a sprayed 9x13 cake pan at 350° F for 30-35 minutes or till a wooden pick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Cool in pan.

Top with whip cream or Cream cheese frosting for fun! Yields 12 servings OR Use cupcake pans with paper liners. Fill 2/3 full.

Bake at 350° for 12- 15 minutes or till a wooden pick comes out clean.

Makes 2-3 dozen muffins or frost for a nutritious cupcake.

PEPPERONI PIZZA POCKET

This comes from Jeff Mauro, of The Food Network’s Sandwich King. Total Time: 50 min; Prep: 20 min; Cook: 30 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/jeff-mauro/pepperoni-pizza-pocket-recipe.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for brushing

1/2 small onion, diced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon tomato paste

One 28-ounce can diced tomatoes

1/2 teaspoon sugar

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

4 to 6 leaves fresh basil, torn

All-purpose flour, for dusting

1 pound pizza dough, divided into 4 balls

2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella

12 ounces pepperoni, thinly sliced

Grated Parmesan, to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Heat the olive oil in a small saucepot over medium-low heat. Add the onions and saute until translucent, 2 to 3 minutes. Add in the garlic and saute for 1 minute. Add in the tomato paste and saute for 1 more minute. Stir in the diced tomatoes, sugar and season with salt and pepper. Add the torn basil leaves and bring to a slow simmer. Allow to simmer for about 15 minutes while you make your pizza pocket.

Roll out the dough balls on a lightly floured surface into 4 equal rounds. On half of each round, layer some mozzarella, and then some pepperoni slices. Fold in half, covering the filling, and then fold the outer edges up and crimp the edges with your fingers to seal. Place the pockets on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Bake until golden, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve with the sauce on the side.

CREAMY CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

This comes from Reynolds Kitchens, and begins, “Enchiladas are simple and delicious when you line your pans with Reynolds Wrap® Aluminum Foil.” Prep Time: 15 - 25 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes; Servings: 6; Course: Main Dish.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken

1 can (10 3/4 oz.) cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream, divided

1 1/2 cups shredded cheese

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

12 (6-inch) flour tortillas

1 1/2 cups salsa

Reynolds Wrap® Aluminum Foil

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large baking pan with Reynolds Wrap® 18-inch Wide Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil. Grease or spray foil to prevent sticking. Combine chicken and soup with half of sour cream, cheese and cilantro.

Spoon 1/4 cup chicken mixture down center of each tortilla; roll up. Place, seam-sides down, in foil-lined pan. Top with salsa and remaining cheese. Cover with foil.

Bake for 15 minutes; remove foil. Continue baking 10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Top with cilantro and sour cream.



SLOPPY JOE SLIDERS

This comes from Family Time, and begins, “Sink your teeth into these mouthwatering sliders, that are easy to make and really fun to eat.” Serves: 8 servings (3 sliders each); Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1/2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil

2 large onion, chopped (about 2 cups)

3 pounds ground beef

ketchup or 2 cups barbecue sauce

1 cup French's® Classic Yellow® mustard

1/2 cup French's® worcestershire sauce

2 packages (15 ounces each) Pepperidge Farm® Mini Sandwich Buns (White or Wheat)

Directions

Heat the oil in a 6-quart saucepot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until tender, stirring occasionally.

Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the beef to the saucepot and cook until it's well browned, stirring often to separate meat. Pour off any fat.

Stir the barbecue sauce, mustard and Worcestershire sauce in the saucepot. Reduce the heat to low. Cook until the mixture is hot and bubbling, stirring occasionally. Divide the beef mixture among the buns.

Thursday, September 22, 2016

Diabetic Thursday

Time again for Diabetic Thursday. So...Here are today's six diabetic recipes. Enjoy!

SPINACH AND SUN-DRIED TOMATO QUESADILLAS

Yield: 16 appetizers

Print: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/784.shtml

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/60.shtml

Ingredients

2 tablespoons julienned or diced sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, drained

1-1/2 cups (moderately packed) chopped fresh spinach

1 cup shredded nonfat or reduced-fat mozzarella cheese

4 whole-wheat flour tortillas (8-inch rounds)

Directions

Place 1 to 2 teaspoons of the oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes in a medium nonstick skillet and place over medium-high heat. Add the spinach and saute for a minute or two, just until the spinach is wilted. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sun-dried tomatoes.

Lay a tortilla on a flat surface and sprinkle the bottom half only with a quarter of the spinach mixture. Sprinkle with a quarter of the cheese. Fold the top half of the tortilla over to enclose the filling. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 4 filled tortillas.

Coat a large griddle or nonstick skillet with cooking spray and preheat over medium heat until a drop of water sizzles when it hits the heated surface.

Lay the quesadillas on the griddle and cook for about 1-1/2 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown. Spray the tops lightly with the cooking spray and then turn with a spatula. Cook for an additional 1-1/2 minutes, until the second side is golden brown.

Transfer the quesadillas to a cutting board and cut each one into 4 wedges. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 47; Sodium: 106 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Fat: 0.9 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 1/4 Medium-Fat Meat

QUESADILLAS

Yield: 8 servings (2 wedges)

Source: Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/899.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup shredded Mexican Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or brick cheese

1 green onion, minced

1-3 tablespoons canned chopped green chilies (to taste)

4 8-inch flour tortillas

Chunky salsa, for topping or dip

Directions

In a medium bowl, toss together the cheese, green onion, and chilies; set aside. Spray a medium skillet with nonstick cooking spray and place over medium heat.

When hot, add 1 tortilla and sprinkle it with one-fourth of the cheese mixture.

When the cheese begins to melt, about 1 minute, fold the tortilla in half.

Continue cooking until lightly browned and crisp on both sides, about 1 minute.

Transfer to a cutting board.

Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Cut into 4 wedges with a knife or pizza cutter and serve immediately with the salsa.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 134; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 211 mg; Cholesterol: 12 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat

CHICKEN FAJITAS

Yield: 4 servings

Print: http://diabeticgourmet.com/articles/417.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into very thin strips

1 tsp. ground cumin

Juice of 1/2 lime

1 Tbsp. canola oil, divided

1/2 large white onion, thinly sliced

1 medium green bell pepper, seeded, cut in 1/2 inch strips

1 to 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded, cut lengthwise in thin strips

1/2 cup well-drained salsa

2-4 Tbsp. (according to taste) minced cilantro leaves

4 whole-wheat tortillas

Directions

Sprinkle cumin over the chicken and rub in. Add chicken and lime juice to a container with a tight lid, cover and shake to mix well. Marinate in the refrigerator, 2 to 24 hours, shaking the container occasionally. About an hour before cooking the chicken, remove it from the marinade, pat dry with paper towels and set aside to allow it to come to room temperature.

Add half of the oil to a medium, nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Stir in the onion, green and jalapeno peppers. Saute until onions are lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Transfer vegetables to a plate and set aside. Do not clean the pan.

Heat remaining oil in the pan over high heat until hot. Add chicken and cook until slightly browned, 1 to 4 minutes, depending on thinness. With a slotted spoon, transfer chicken to a plate.

Place a tortilla on each of 4 plates. Add one-fourth of the chicken to each in a narrow band, leaving a 1-inch margin at each end of the tortilla. Top chicken with one-fourth of the vegetables, then one-fourth of the salsa, then one-fourth of the cilantro. Fold ends of the tortilla over the filling. Roll up as tightly as possible. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: 190 calories, 5 g. total fat, Less than 1 g. saturated fat, 26 g. carbohydrate, 17 g. protein, 3 g. dietary fiber, 350 mg. Sodium, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 3 Lean-Meat, 1 Vegetable

TURKEY FAJITAS

Makes 6 fajitas, 6 servings.

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/707.shtml

Ingredients

2 tsp. fresh lime juice

1 clove garlic, finely minced

1 tsp. finely chopped jalapeno pepper

3/4 pound turkey breast cutlets, diced

1/2 cup low-fat or fat-free plain yogurt

3/4 cup (packed) fresh cilantro leaves

6 large (10-inch) flour tortillas, preferably whole-wheat

1 Tbsp. canola oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 cups Romaine lettuce, cut crosswise into strips

1 cup red, green or yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combine lime juice, garlic and jalapeno in a bowl. Add turkey, turn to coat and set aside.

Purée yogurt and cilantro in food processor or blender until smooth. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside. (Sauce can be made ahead if refrigerated until ready to use. Remove from refrigerator early enough to bring sauce to room temperature before using.)

Wrap tortillas in foil and place in oven until warm, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat a large non-stick skillet over high heat until very hot. Add oil and tilt pan to coat evenly. Add turkey and stir-fry, stirring constantly, until cooked through and lightly browned. Transfer to a medium bowl and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

On each tortilla, place a layer of shredded Romaine, and one-sixth of the turkey and the peppers. Add a spoonful of cilantro-yogurt sauce. Fold tortillas around filling and place on a serving platter. Serve with yogurt-cilantro sauce.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 174; Protein: 18 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 238 mg; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread/Starch, 3 Low-fat Meat

MEXICAN FIESTA BURGERS CON QUESO

Makes 4 servings

Source: TBC

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1226.shtml

Ingredients

1 pound 95% lean ground beef

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 jalapeno pepper, minced

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro

1/2 cup shredded Chihuahua cheese, divided

4 small tortillas, warmed or hamburger buns, split, toasted

Toppings:

Thinly sliced lettuce, chopped tomato, avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, guacamole (optional)

Directions

Combine Ground Beef, onion, jalapeno, cilantro and 1/4 cup cheese in medium bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Lightly shape into four 1/2-inch thick patties.

To grill (if preferred, a skillet version follows), place patties on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 8 to 10 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 7 to 9 minutes), until instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160F, turning occasionally.

Place burgers in tortillas or buns; season with salt and black pepper, as desired. Top with desired toppings.

Alternative skillet version: Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Place patties in skillet; cook 10 to 12 minutes turning occasionally, until instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160F, turning occasionally. About 3 minutes before burgers are done, top evenly with remaining 1/4 cup cheese.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 291; Protein: 28 g; Fat: 12 g; Sodium: 339 mg; Cholesterol: 79 mg; Saturated Fat: 6 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 17 g

LEMON-ROSEMARY CHICKEN BREASTS

Yield: 4 servings

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/653.shtml

Source: The All New Good Housekeeping Cookbook

Ingredients

2 lemons

1 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

2 teaspoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

4 small skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (1 pound)

Directions

Prepare grill.

From 1 lemon, grate 2 teaspoons peel.

From 1/2 lemon, cut thin slices; reserve for garnish.

Squeeze juice from remaining 3 lemon halves into medium bowl.

Stir in lemon peel, rosemary, garlic, oil, salt and pepper.

Add chicken breast halves to bowl, turning to coat with lemon-juice mixture.

Arrange chicken on grill over medium heat and grill, brushing with remaining lemon-juice mixture in bowl, 5 minutes.

Turn chicken and grill until chicken loses its pink color throughout, about 5 minutes longer. Garnish with lemon slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 153; Protein: 26 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 364 mg; Cholesterol: 66 mg; Carbohydrates: 3 g; Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Wednesday Recipes

I'm planning to make a few changes here over the next few weeks...A little chattier, more photos, maybe one or two highlighted recipes and five or six accompanying recipes...But then, I think the changes will make a better blog, all the way around.

In the meantime, here are today's six recipes to try out. Enjoy!

SKIRT STEAK WITH LENTIL SALAD

This is from Pierre Franey in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “This recipe came to The Times in 1990 in Pierre Franey's 60-Minute Gourmet column. A lentil salad (we used those tiny French green lentils, but you can use the standard supermarket variety as well) is dressed with a Dijon mustard vinaigrette, then topped with skirt steak that's been seared in a cast-iron pan. A simple sauce, made by deglazing the pan with butter, garlic and parsley, is drizzled over the top. It is classic Franey – uncomplicated, elegant and delicious.” Yield: 4 servings; Time: 45 minutes.

This was featured in “60-Minute Gourmet”, and can be viewed online here. Also check out Melissa Clark’s guide “How to Cook Beans”.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Salad:

8 cups water

1 pound dried lentils

1 cup finely diced carrots

1 bay leaf

3 sprigs fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried

Salt to taste

1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard

3/4 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup red-wine vinegar

1 cup finely chopped onions

4 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon or parsley

Freshly ground pepper to taste

For the Steaks:

4 skirt steaks, about 1/2 pound each, trimmed of excess fat

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 tablespoons butter

2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic

2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

Preparation

To make the lentil salad, put the water in a large saucepan. Wash the lentils in a colander and add to the saucepan. Add the carrots, bay leaf, thyme and salt. Cover and simmer 20 to 25 minutes. Do not overcook. Drain and remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs.

In a large mixing bowl combine the mustard, 3/4 cup of oil and the vinegar, onions, tarragon, salt and pepper. Blend well with a wire whisk. Add the lentils and stir. Serve warm, lukewarm or cool.

To prepare the meat, sprinkle it on both sides with salt and pepper and brush with 1 tablespoon of oil.

Heat a cast-iron skillet large enough to hold two steaks over high heat, add the steaks and brown them for 3 minutes for medium-rare. Turn and continue cooking until they are thoroughly browned, about 3 minutes more. Remove to a warm platter. Repeat the procedure for the two remaining steaks.

Pour the fat from the skillet and reduce the heat. Add the butter, garlic and parsley. Cook briefly, stirring. Add any juices from the platter and blend well. Pour the sauce over the steaks and serve with the lentil salad immediately.

CHICKEN BREASTS WITH TOMATOES AND CAPERS

This recipe was also in a recent New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. It begins, “This recipe was originally developed by Pierre Franey in 1991 for the 60-Minute Gourmet column, a weekly feature dedicated to Times-worthy dishes that were easy, quick and inexpensive. This recipe fit the bill perfectly, and it still does. Just sauté the chicken breasts until they are lightly browned. Then add shallots and garlic, tarragon, tomatoes, vinegar, capers, white wine and tomato paste. Stir well and cook for about 9 minutes more. That's it.” Time: 20 minutes; makes 4 servings.

This was featured in "60-Minute Gourmet" and can be view this online here.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 1/4 pounds)

Salt and freshly ground white pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

6 tablespoons finely chopped shallots

2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic

4 teaspoons finely chopped fresh tarragon, or 2 teaspoons dried tarragon

8 ripe plum tomatoes cut into small cubes (or one 28-ounce can of tomatoes, drained and chopped)

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/4 cup drained capers

1 cup dry white wine

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves

Preparation

Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the oil and butter in a heavy-bottom skillet. Add the chicken breasts and saute over medium-high heat, turning the pieces often until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

Add the shallots and garlic around the chicken. Cook briefly; add the tarragon, tomatoes, vinegar, capers, wine and tomato paste. Stir to dissolve the brown particles adhering to the bottom of the skillet.

Blend well, bring to a boil, and then cover and simmer for 9 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

GRANDMA'S PEANUT BUTTER COOKIES

This and the next recipe (Grandma's Oatmeal Cookies) are from my Grandma Hallock (my mom's mom). They can be found in my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.





1/2 C butter

1 1/4 C flour

1/2 C peanut butter

3/4 tsp. baking soda

1/2 C sugar

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 egg, well beaten

1/4 tsp. salt

Cream butter & peanut butter together. Add sugar gradually & cream thoroughly. Add egg. Sift flour once before measuring. Sift flour, soda, baking powder & salt together & add to creamed mixture. Chill dough well, then form into balls the size of walnuts. Place balls on lightly greased baking sheet. Flatten with fork dipped in flour, making criss-cross pattern. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

GRANDMA'S OATMEAL COOKIES

Cookies were one of Grandma Hallock's specialties. Both of her cookie recipes included here were extremely popular.



1 C flour

1 C butter or margarine

1 C brown sugar

1/4 C boiling water

3 C quick cooking oatmeal

1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

Mix flour & brown sugar. Add oatmeal; stir. Melt butter; add to dry ingredients. Mix baking soda into boiling water; add to other ingredients, stirring well. Place batter into loaf pan, lined with aluminum foil & place in freeze for several hours. Slice & bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes.

KUNG PAO CHICKEN

This was posted by Daring Gourmet in tbsp. (tablespoon)’s website. She wrote, “One of the most popular dishes throughout China and the Western world alike, this sweet and spicy chicken dish is not for the faint of taste buds. It packs a punch, or should we say, ‘PAO, right in the kisser!’” Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; makes 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil

6-10 dried hot red chili peppers (or less according to heat preference), seeded and membranes removed (gloves recommended)

1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced

3/4 cup dry roasted peanuts

1 bunch green onions (about 6 green onions)

For the Marinade:

1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine or sherry

3/4 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup black Chinese vinegar or dark balsamic vinegar

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil

3 tablespoons white sugar

2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

2 teaspoons cornstarch

Directions

Combine the marinade ingredients in a small bowl and pour over the chicken pieces. Toss to coat and let the chicken sit while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Combine all the sauce ingredients in a bowl, stirring until the cornstarch and sugar is dissolved. Set aside.

Heat the oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Fry the chilies for a few seconds until they turn darker in color.

Add the chicken and marinade and fry until no longer pink. Add the garlic, ginger, and white parts of the green onions and fry for two minutes. Add the sauce and stir until thickened. Reduce the heat to medium-high and stir in the peanuts. Simmer for one minute. Remove from heat and stir in the green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

20-MINUTE HERBED CHICKEN

This comes from the FamilyTime e-newsletter. It begins, “It's quick, it's easy and your family will love it...all it takes is 25 minutes and a few on-hand ingredients until dinner is served.” Serves: 4 servings; Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 1/4 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast half

1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's® Condensed Cream of Chicken with Herbs Soup

1/2 cup milk

Directions

Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 minutes or until browned on both sides.

Stir the soup and milk in the skillet and heat to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serving Suggestion: Serve the chicken and soup mixture with Broth Simmered Rice: Heat 1 can (10 1/2 ounces) Campbell's® Condensed Chicken Broth and 1 cup water in a 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat to a boil. Stir in 2 cups uncooked instant white rice. Cover the saucepan and remove from the heat. Let stand for 5 minutes.

Ingredient Note: We develop our recipes using a 4-to 5-ounce skinless, boneless chicken breast half per serving. However, there are a range of sizes available in-store, from the butcher counter to the meat case and the freezer section. Use whichever you prefer- just follow the recipe as written above for the best result. If you're using larger chicken breasts they may require a little longer cooking time.

Tuesday, September 20, 2016

Tuesday Recipes

Here are today's six recipes to help you through the day. Enjoy!

BASIC ROASTED POTATOES

This comes from Diana Rattray, About.com’s Southern Food expert. Diana wrote, “These roasted potatoes are a snap to prepare, and they taste amazing. Make them with or without the garlic, and serve along with a steak, chicken, or fish.” Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 50 minutes; Total Time: 60 minutes; Yield: Serves 4.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 to 2 1/2 pounds red skinned potatoes, unpeeled, scrubbed and cut in 1 to 1 1/2-inch pieces

1/4 cup olive oil

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

3 cloves garlic, finely minced, optional

1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley leaves

Preparation

Heat the oven to 400° F.

In a large bowl, toss the potato chunks with the olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic, and parsley.

Spread the potatoes out in a single layer in a large, shallow rimmed baking pan, such as a large jelly roll pan or half sheet pan.

Roast the potatoes for about 50 to 60 minutes, or until nicely browned, turning every 20 minutes to brown evenly.

PASTA WITH MARINATED TOMATOES AND SUMMER HERBS

This comes from Julia Moskin in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Julia wrote, “The easiest summer dinner known to man, pasta con salsa crudo, is a one-bowl, infinitely variable riot of seasonal flavors. It can be made with fancy Italian tuna and local heirloom tomatoes for foodies, or with supermarket mozzarella and tomatoes for children, or with excellent olives and extra pine nuts for vegetarians. It puts you in the kitchen for about a half-hour at the tail end of lunchtime. After that, all there is to do is cook the pasta, and serve with or without crusty bread, boiled corn, sliced tomatoes, or a nice, simple green salad.” Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 30 minutes.

This was featured in “The House, the Food and Issues in Between” and can also be viewed online here.

Ingredients

About 1 1/2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved or quartered if small, diced if large

Salt

2 cans olive oil-packed tuna or 1 pound mozzarella cheese, diced (optional)

2/3 cup pitted oil-cured black olives, halved, or 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped, or 3 tablespoons capers (optional)

2/3 cup chopped fresh herbs (basil, parsley, mint, chives, cilantro, scallion tops, or a combination), more for garnish

Freshly grated zest of 1 lemon (optional)

About 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Freshly ground black pepper

2 pounds short pasta, like fusilli, farfalle or penne

Hot red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

Preparation

Up to 4 hours before serving, put tomatoes in a large bowl and sprinkle all over with salt. Set aside for 30 minutes, then drain off liquid.

Add tuna and its oil, olives or capers, if using. Add herbs and zest. Add olive oil, salt and pepper to taste and stir gently, flaking tuna into pieces. Cover and set aside at least 1 hour or up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Cook pasta in plenty of boiling salted water. Drain very well. Combine tomatoes and pasta well, then taste and add more oil, salt and pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Sprinkle with pine nuts, if using, and chopped herbs. Serve immediately.

MINI CHOCOLATE MINT CHEESECAKES

This recipe begins, “Serve a decadent cheesecake to each of your guests at your next dinner party. They'll be calling you the Host of the Year.” If you're like me, once you read through this, you'll definitely want to try this out!

Makes 24 servings

Source: Jennie-O

View online with photo and print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1337.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 cup crushed gluten-free chocolate wafer cookies

1 tablespoon butter, melted

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup sugar

1 egg or 1/4 cup egg substitute

1/3 cup chocolate chips, melted

1/3 cup chopped crème de menthe mint candy wafers

1/3 cup sour cream

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup sweetened whipped cream

Directions

Heat oven to 325F.

In small bowl, combine crushed cookie crumbs and melted butter.

Press cookie crumb mixture into bottom of individual small tart dishes custard cups or mini muffin cups.

In mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until blended.

Add egg. Blend in melted chocolate, chopped candy, sour cream and vanilla.

Pour evenly over crumbs.

Bake 20 minutes.

Cool. Refrigerate until serving.

Before serving, top with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 100; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 25 mg; Saturated Fat: 3.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g

ALABAMA LEMON ‘CHEESE’ CAKE

This was in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. It begins, “This Southern delicacy contains no cheese, but a buttery filling with a hint of cheese-like curd adds color and luscious flavor.” Yield: 10 to 12 servings.

This was featured in “Two Recipes From Tracy K. Smith’s Kitchen” and can be viewed online here. Also, check out Melissa Clarke’s guide, “How to Frost a Cake”

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup butter (2 sticks), at room temperature

2 cups sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

3 cups sifted cake flour

3/4 cup milk

6 large egg whites, stiffly beaten

For the Lemon Filling:

1/2 cup butter (1 stick)

1 cup sugar

6 large egg yolks

Grated zest and juice of 2 lemons

For the 7-Minute Frosting:

2 egg whites, unbeaten

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup water

1 tablespoon light corn syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla

For Decorating:

1 cup shredded coconut

Preparation

Make the Cake:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease three 8-inch cake pans.

With a standing or hand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add dry ingredients alternately with milk. Fold in egg whites until thoroughly combined; do not overmix.

Divide batter into greased pans and transfer to the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until top springs back when lightly touched. Cool on racks before removing from pans; let cool completely.

Make the Lemon Filling:

Combine all ingredients in top of double boiler set over boiling water. Cook, stirring constantly until very thick, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and let cool completely before using.

Make the Frosting:

Combine all ingredients in top of double boiler. Beat with a rotary beater or hand mixer for 1 minute, then set over boiling water and beat for about 7 minutes more or until frosting stands in glossy peaks. Remove from the heat and continue beating until frosting is cool and thick enough to hold firm swirls. Let cool completely before using.

Assemble the Cake:

Spread the lemon filling between the layers and on top. Spread the frosting on the sides of the cake and press with shredded coconut.

PEPPERONI PIZZA POCKET

This comes from Jeff Mauro, of The Food Network’s Sandwich King. Total Time: 50 min; Prep: 20 min; Cook: 30 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/jeff-mauro/pepperoni-pizza-pocket-recipe.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for brushing

1/2 small onion, diced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon tomato paste

One 28-ounce can diced tomatoes

1/2 teaspoon sugar

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

4 to 6 leaves fresh basil, torn

All-purpose flour, for dusting

1 pound pizza dough, divided into 4 balls

2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella

12 ounces pepperoni, thinly sliced

Grated Parmesan, to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Heat the olive oil in a small saucepot over medium-low heat. Add the onions and saute until translucent, 2 to 3 minutes. Add in the garlic and saute for 1 minute. Add in the tomato paste and saute for 1 more minute. Stir in the diced tomatoes, sugar and season with salt and pepper. Add the torn basil leaves and bring to a slow simmer. Allow to simmer for about 15 minutes while you make your pizza pocket.

Roll out the dough balls on a lightly floured surface into 4 equal rounds. On half of each round, layer some mozzarella, and then some pepperoni slices. Fold in half, covering the filling, and then fold the outer edges up and crimp the edges with your fingers to seal. Place the pockets on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Bake until golden, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve with the sauce on the side.

CREAMY CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

This comes from Reynolds Kitchens, and begins, “Enchiladas are simple and delicious when you line your pans with Reynolds Wrap® Aluminum Foil.” Prep Time: 15 - 25 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes; Servings: 6; Course: Main Dish.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken

1 can (10 3/4 oz.) cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream, divided

1 1/2 cups shredded cheese

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

12 (6-inch) flour tortillas

1 1/2 cups salsa

Reynolds Wrap® Aluminum Foil

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large baking pan with Reynolds Wrap® 18-inch Wide Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil. Grease or spray foil to prevent sticking. Combine chicken and soup with half of sour cream, cheese and cilantro.

Spoon 1/4 cup chicken mixture down center of each tortilla; roll up. Place, seam-sides down, in foil-lined pan. Top with salsa and remaining cheese. Cover with foil.

Bake for 15 minutes; remove foil. Continue baking 10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Top with cilantro and sour cream.