Confessions of a Foodie

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

Friday, September 29, 2017

Friday Recipes

The weather here in Florida is cooling off a little. While high 60s to low 80s might not shout autumn where you live (it doesn't, where I'm originally from), it does feel nice, for Florida...nice enough for fall recipes. Here are six autumn recipes to help you through the day, including Chocolate-Amaretto Pots-De-Creme and Baked Eyeballs Casserole. Enjoy!

PUMPKIN GNOCCHI WITH BROWNED BUTTER AND SAGE

(GNOCCHI DI ZUCCA)

This comes from Danette St. Onge, About.com's Italian Food expert. She writes, “A tempting, toothsome fall dish, these homemade gnocchi can be made with either butternut squash or pumpkin (or any other rich, sweet winter squash). They are classically served with a very simple sauce of browned butter and sage (burro e salvia), but really you can serve them with any sauce you'd like -- simpler ones will work better, as the gnocchi themselves are so flavorful.” Yields 4 to 6 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi:

1 1/2pounds (675 g) raw butternut squash or pumpkin

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon fine sea salt

1 1/2 cups (350 g) unbleached all-purpose flour

For The Butter and Sage Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4-6 small fresh sage leaves, washed and dried

Freshly grated pecorino (optional)

For the gnocchi:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius).

Cut the squash into large chunks (about 3 to 4 inches in size), retaining the rind, and scoop away the seeds and strings with a spoon. Place the squash pieces on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake (still in the rind) until tender enough to be pierced with the tines of a fork, about 30 to 35 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool. When cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh out of the rind, into a fine-mesh strainer placed over a large bowl. Set aside until the squash has cooled completely and is thoroughly drained of excess liquid.

Transfer the squash to a large mixing bowl and mash with a wooden spoon or potato masher. If there are still large chunks, you can use a handheld immersion blender, blender, or food processor to quickly puree it until smooth. Add the eggs and salt and stir to combine. Then add the flour, a little bit at a time, stirring after each addition until evenly incorporated.

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Meanwhile, start forming the gnocchi: using a teaspoon, scoop up a small amount of the dough, then use your fingers (or another small spoon) to shape each small, round gnocco. If using spoons, you can use the shape of the spoons themselves to form small quenelles, or you can make them smaller and ball-shaped. If you wish, you can also use the tines of a fork to press the traditional gnocchi grooves into each ball, but that is optional.

When the water is boiling, gently drop the gnocchi in at the same time. When they start to float (after just a few minutes, but timing will depend on the size of your gnocchi), they are done -- remove them with a slotted spoon.

About 16 gnocchi should be enough to serve 4 people as a "primo" (pasta course that will be followed by a main dish) or 24 if it's the main dish itself.

For the sauce:

While the gnocchi are cooking, gently brown the butter in a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Be careful not to burn it, as there is a fine line between "browned" butter and burnt butter! Add the sage leaves – whole if small enough, or coarsely chopped if large – and stir to coat well and flavor the butter, about 1 minute.

Serve each dish topped with browned butter and sage and a sprinkle of freshly grated pecorino, if desired. A dry white wine would pair well with this meal.

ONION AND MUSHROOM TART

This comes from one of my favorite sites, The Kitchn. Their emailed newsletters are worth signing up for. This recipe makes one 9-inch tart.

To view this online, click here.

For the crust:

2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

2 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

1 pound onions

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 1/4 teaspoons salt, divided

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided

2 tablespoons butter

1 1/2 pounds mushrooms, sliced

1 large egg

3/4 cup ricotta cheese

3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, divided

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup chopped chives or green onions

Preheat the oven to 350° F.

To make the dough, place the flour and salt in a food processor and pulse. Drop in the butter and pulse until just barely the texture of oatmeal. Add the ice water slowly and pulse once or twice, until the dough clumps together. Turn onto a floured board and form into a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, peel and remove the root ends from the onions. Slice them in quarters and place in a pie dish or small roaster. Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the vinegar, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper over top. Roast until the onions are soft and begin to color but still hold their shape, about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool.

While the onions are roasting, cook the mushrooms. Over medium heat, melt the butter. Add mushrooms, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until golden. Remove from the heat.

When pastry dough has chilled, roll it out onto a lightly floured surface to a circle roughly 12 inches in diameter. Gently transfer to a tart ring, and fit into the ring evenly. Pierce bottom with a fork and return to refrigerator to chill another 20 to 30 minutes.

Separate the egg and transfer the yolk to a small bowl; reserve the egg white for the topping. Mix the egg yolk, ricotta, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 cup of Parmesan, and chives. Remove the tart shell from refrigerator. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly across the bottom of the tart shell. Nestle the onions across ricotta base and scatter the mushrooms in between onions.

In another small bowl, beat the reserved egg white, heavy cream and the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan. Pour mixture evenly over top of onion and mushroom filling.

Cover the tart with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 15 minutes, until top is bubbling and crust is slightly brown, but not too dark.

Sprinkle chives over top before servings. Serve warm or at room temperature.

STEWED WHITE BEANS

Yield: 4 servings

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/813.shtml

Source: Vegetarian Celebrations

Ingredients

1 Tbsp canola oil

1 cup minced onion

1/2 cup minced celery

1 (14 to 16-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

3 Tbsp light brown sugar

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp dried summer savory

2 bay leaves

1-1/4 to 2-1/2 cups canned or cooked navy beans

salt and freshly ground pepper

Directions

Heat the oil in a deep, heavy saucepan. Add the onion and celery and saute over moderate heat until they are golden. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, and seasonings.

Bring to a simmer, then stir in the beans. Add a pinch of salt and a grinding of pepper. Simmer, covered, over very low heat for 45 minutes. Taste to adjust seasonings and serve hot.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 158; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 35 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 29 g; Exchanges: 2 Starch; 1 Very Lean Meat

CHOCOLATE-AMARETTO POTS-DE-CREME

Whipped topping will give you a thicker, mousse-like effect. But this will add additional fat. Nutrition facts reflect the topping used only for garnish. We do not recommend freezing this dessert.

Yield: 6 servings

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/810.shtml

Source: Enlitened Kosher Cooking

Ingredients

1 cup vanilla low-fat, low-carb soy milk

2 tablespoons light whipped topping

2 ounces (31/2 rows of a small bar) sugar-free dark chocolate

1 tablespoon margarine

1 tablespoon unsweetened dark cocoa

1/2 teaspoon good-quality coffee

sugar substitute equal to 4 tablespoons sugar

4 egg yolks, beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

1 teaspoon Amaretto liqueur

Topping:

1/4 cup light whipped topping

sugar substitute equal to 1 tablespoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon coffee, dissolved with a few drops of water

1 teaspoon almond extract

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon Amaretto liqueur

Directions

Beat the egg yolks with a whip and set aside.

Combine soy milk, light whipped topping, chocolate, margarine, cocoa, coffee and sugar substitute in a small, heavy saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, for 10-15 minutes or until the mixture reaches a full boil and begins to thicken. This part takes a lot of patience.

As soon as it starts to thicken, turn heat to low and keep stirring for another 1-2 minutes. Gradually mix about one-quarter of the hot chocolate mixture into the beaten egg yolks, half a teaspoon at a time, while continually whisking the eggs so that they don't cook.

Then return the yolk mixture to the remaining hot chocolate mixture. Stir over low heat for 2-3 minutes. Then remove from the heat. Stir in flavorings and liqueur. Pour chocolate mixture into 6 small pots-de-creme cups, demitasse cups or souffle cups. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.

To make the topping, beat together the light whipped topping with the sugar substitute at a medium speed. When it starts to thicken, add the dissolved coffee, flavorings, and liqueur and continue beating until soft peaks form. Garnish each pot-de-creme with a dollop of whipped topping and sprinkle with some cocoa and/or chopped, toasted almonds.

Garnish: light whipped topping; cocoa; chopped, toasted almonds

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 111; Protein: 3.5 g; Fat: 8.5 g; Sodium: 21 mg; Cholesterol: 142 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1.5 g; Carbohydrates: 4.5 g; Exchanges: 1/4 Starch; 1/2 Protein; 1-1/2 Fat

BAKED EYEBALLS CASSEROLE

This comes from Family Time.com, and starts off, "The 'eyeballs' that top our spooky casserole are made from mozzarella cheese and sliced olives. But the cheesy, baked pasta that lies below is a real treat that everyone will enjoy." Serves 8 (about 1 1/4 cups each); prep time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes.

This recipe can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

Vegetable cooking spray

1 jar (24 ounces) Prego® Italian Sausage & Garlic Italian Sauce

1 container (15 ounces) part-skim ricotta cheese

3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

7 cups bow tie-shaped pasta, cooked and drained

1 container (8 ounces) small fresh mozzarella cheese balls (about 1-inch)

2 tablespoons sliced pitted ripe olive

Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch shallow baking dish with the cooking spray.

Mix 1 1/2 cups of the sauce, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and pasta in the prepared dish. Spread the remaining sauce over the pasta mixture. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and cover the dish with foil.

Bake at 400°F. for 25 minutes or until hot and bubbling. Arrange the cheese balls randomly over the pasta mixture. Place a sliced olive on each cheese ball. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Tip: Easy Substitution Tip: If fresh mozzarella cheese balls are not available, substitute 1 package (8 ounces) fresh mozzarella cheese. Cut crosswise into thirds. Cut each third in 6 wedges, for triangle-shaped eyes.

SPICED PUMPKIN-RAISIN COOKIES

This comes from Giada De Laurentiis of Giada At Home on the Food Network. Makes 23 to 26 cookies. Total Time: 40 min; Prep: 20 min; Cook: 20 min; Level: Easy

You can view this online at http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/spiced-pumpkin-raisin-cookies-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

2/3 cup old-fashioned oats

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon fine salt

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

3/4 cup raw sugar, plus additional for sprinkling

1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup raisins

Directions

Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350 degrees F. Line 2 heavy large baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, cinnamon, baking soda, salt and allspice. Stir to blend well. In a large bowl, combine the sugar, pumpkin puree, oil, syrup and vanilla; whisk to blend. Using a flexible rubber spatula, gradually stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Stir in the raisins.

For each cookie, drop 1 generous tablespoon of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the mounds about 1 inch apart (or use a mini ice cream scoop). Using moistened fingertips, flatten each to a 2-inch-diameter round. Sprinkle each cookie with a bit more raw sugar.

Bake the cookies until brown and a bit firm to the touch, 17 to 20 minutes. Using a metal spatula, transfer the cookies to a rack and cool completely.

Thursday, September 28, 2017

Double-Post Thursday

Besides being Diabetic Thursday, it's also Double-Post Thursday. Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the day, including Classic Hot Fudge Sundae and Pumpkin Dump Cake. Enjoy!

BUTTERNUT ROAST CHICKEN

This comes from Nigella Lawson in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Roast a chicken and you know you have a comfortable meal. Alter that a little by butterflying the chicken, a surprisingly simple task that can be carried out with a pair of kitchen scissors, and you have a quick dinner that carries with it the casual air of barbecue, without the bother. Here, buttermilk, which is usually associated with fried chicken, helps to tenderize the chicken and conveys the aromatics: you really get the full value of the rosemary, pepper and garlic. If you want to substitute maple syrup for the honey, you can. Best of all, you can leave the marinating bird in the fridge for up to two days; thus, it gets more tender and you know you have a dinner that needs no more than to be popped into the oven.” Makes 4 servings.

To view this online, go to http://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/7264-buttermilk-roast-chicken.

Ingredients

1 4-pound chicken

2 cups buttermilk

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 cloves garlic, lightly crushed

1 tablespoon crushed black peppercorns

1 tablespoon Maldon or other sea salt

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, roughly chopped

1 tablespoon honey

Preparation

Butterfly chicken by placing breast side down and using heavy-duty kitchen shears to cut along both sides of backbone. Discard backbone, turn chicken over and open it like a book. Press gently to flatten it.

Place chicken in a large freezer bag. Add buttermilk, 1/4 cup oil, garlic, peppercorns, salt, rosemary and honey. Seal bag securely and refrigerate overnight or up to two days.

Heat oven to 400 degrees.Remove chicken from marinade and place on a rack so excess can drip off. Line a roasting pan with foil and place chicken in pan. Drizzle with remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Roast for 45 minutes, then reduce heat to 325 degrees. Continue roasting until well browned and until juices run clear when chicken is pierced where leg joins thigh,about another 20 minutes.

Place chicken on a carving board and allow to rest for 10 minutes before cutting into serving pieces. Place a portion on each of four plates, and drizzle each serving with pan juices.

ABRUZZI FISH STEW

This was in the October 2016 issue Runner's World, page 45. Makes 8 servings. It is adapted from Scratch: Home Cooking for Everyone Made Simple, Fun, and Totally Delicious, by Maria Rodale. Available in October, published by Rodale, owner of Runner’s World.

This can be viewed online at http://www.runnersworld.com/recipes/have-a-pasta-party-from-scratch/.

Ingredients

2 lb. assorted fish and shellfish (such as snapper, cod, red mullet, clams, mussels, and shrimp)

4 large tomatoes, chopped

4 cloves garlic, chopped

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/3 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves, plus extra for garnish

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 lb. spaghetti

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut fish into 2" to 3" pieces, scrub the clams and mussels, and peel and devein the shrimp. In a heavy-bottomed 12" ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven, combine tomatoes, garlic, oil, parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and bake for 10 minutes. Season fish with salt and pepper, and gently add to tomatoes. Cover and bake for another 10 minutes or until fish is opaque. Scatter shellfish over the top, cover, and bake for another 10 minutes or until all shells have opened and shrimp is opaque.

While seafood bakes, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain. Add pasta to seafood pan and mix gently to combine. Sprinkle with parsley. Makes 8 servings.

Nutrition Information: Calories per serving: 415; Protein: 27 g; Carbs: 48 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 4 g; Total fat: 12 g; Saturated fat: 2 g; Sodium: 307 mg

PUMPKIN DUMP CAKE

This is from Tbsp., and begins, “An easy fall cake that is ‘dumped’ into a pan and baked.”

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 60 minutes; Servings: 16

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 can (29 oz) pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)

1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

3 whole eggs

1 cup white sugar

3 teaspoons cinnamon

1 box Betty Crocker™ SuperMoist™ yellow cake mix

1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

3/4 cup butter, melted

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 baking dish.

In a large bowl, mix pumpkin, milk, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon until well blended. Spread pumpkin mixture in prepared baking dish. Mixture will be very wet.

Sprinkle cake mix evenly on top of the batter. If adding pecans, sprinkle them over the cake mix. Pour melted butter over the top of the cake mix. Bake 50 minutes.

Cool completely. Top with whipped cream or ice cream.

ONE-PAN CRISPY CHICKEN THIGHS WITH ROASTED VEGETABLES

This comes from Stephanie Wise in her blog Girl Versus Dough and reposted in the Tablespoon e-newsletter. This recipe starts off, “Crispy chicken thighs and caramelized vegetables all baked on one sheet pan.” Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 60 minutes; Makes 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, halved and quartered

4 to 5 carrots, peeled, halved and quartered

1 red onion, halved and quartered

1 garlic bulb, cloves separated and skins removed

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

3 1/2 to 4 lbs skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs

Salt and pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes

Directions

Heat oven to 450°F.

In a large bowl, toss potatoes, carrots, onion and garlic with 3 tablespoons olive oil. Spread in an even layer on a large rimmed baking sheet.

Use paper towel to blot chicken thighs to remove excess moisture. Arrange chicken thighs on top of vegetables, and brush chicken skin with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle thighs generously with salt and pepper.

Sprinkle thyme, oregano and parsley flakes evenly over thighs and vegetables. Bake on center rack of oven 40 to 45 minutes until an internal thermometer inserted in center of largest piece of chicken reads 175°F, chicken skin is crispy and browned and vegetables are tender.

30 MINUTE CHILI WITH GROUND BEEF AND BEANS
This comes from Diana Rattray, Southern food guide at The Spruce. Diana wrote, “This ground beef chili is hearty and delicious, and it takes only 30 minutes from start to finish! Don't feel overwhelmed by the list of ingredients, many are suggested toppings.

“The ground beef is quickly browned, then it is combined with a spice mixture, beans, and tomatoes for a quick and easy meal for a busy day. It's also easy on the budget.

“Make a pan of cornbread to go with the chili, along with a salad or slaw, or serve it with hot cooked rice and warm tortillas.

“If you're making this for a party game day gathering, offer several toppings with the chili and add a bowl of tortilla chips to the menu. The recipe is easily doubled.”

Total Time: 30 mins; Prep: 5 mins; Cook: 25 mins; Yield: 6 Servings

To view this recipe online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Seasoning Mix:

3 tablespoons chili powder

2 tablespoons onion (dried minced)

1 1/2 teaspoons cumin

1 teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Chili:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (at least 85% lean)

1 can/14.5 ounces diced tomatoes

1 can/14.5 ounces diced tomatoes with mild green chile peppers*

1 can/8 ounces tomato sauce

1 can/15 to 16 ounces black beans (undrained)

salt to taste

Optional: shredded cheddar, cheddar-jack, or a Mexican blend of cheeses

Directions

In a small bowl or cup, combine the chili powder with the dried minced onion, cumin, oregano, sugar, garlic powder, and the black and cayenne peppers. Blend well and set aside.

In a Dutch oven or large sauté pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef, turning and breaking up with a spatula as it cooks.

Drain the ground beef well. Return the beef to the pan over medium heat. Add the chili seasoning mix and stir to blend.

Add the 2 cans of tomatoes, tomato sauce, and undrained black beans. Stir to blend ingredients.

Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes.

Taste and add salt, as needed.

Topping Suggestions: sour cream, chopped green onion, chopped red onion, shredded lettuce, cilantro, guacamole, diced tomatoes

Serve with a Tex-Mex cornbread or classic Southern cornbread, biscuits, crackers, or tortilla chips, along with shredded cheese and your favorite toppings.

*If you don't have diced tomatoes with chile peppers, use regular diced tomatoes and add mild green chile peppers. Or, use about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of chunky mild to medium salsa in place of the second can of tomatoes.

CLASSIC HOT FUDGE SUNDAE

This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “There is a reason a hot fudge sundae is such an enduring classic: That combination of warm, rich chocolate fudge mixing with frozen ice cream and melting it slightly is absolutely irresistible. Of course, if you have homemade fudge sauce and homemade ice cream, it gets even better. Vanilla ice cream is the standard here, but feel free to use your favorite flavor, or a combination of flavors. And if you like nuts, by all means use them here. The added crunch is marvelous against all the rich creaminess.”

Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 35 minutes

To view this online, click here.

Check out Melissa Clark’s guide “How to Make Ice Cream”.

Ingredients

For the Fudge Sauce:

3/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1/3 cup light corn syrup or honey

3 tablespoons Dutch-processed cocoa

1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

7 ounces finely chopped bittersweet chocolate

1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 tablespoon brandy or rum

For Assembly:

1 cup chilled heavy cream

1 tablespoon superfine sugar, more to taste

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 pints your favorite flavor ice cream

Chopped toasted nuts, such as almonds, peanuts, or pecans (optional)

Cherries, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the cream, sugar, corn syrup or honey, cocoa, and salt to a simmer, whisking until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the chocolate and let cook until the chocolate melts. Stir in butter and vanilla or liquor. Let cool slightly. Contrary to its name, hot fudge is best served warm, not piping hot.

For assembly, make the whipped cream. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, beat the cream, sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Pour a little fudge sauce into the bottoms of sundae dishes or bowls. Top with ice cream, then more hot fudge, then nuts if using. Cover all with whipped cream and a cherry if you like. Serve.

Diabetic Thursday

It's Diabetic Thursday, a time to see that diabetic food is anything but boring. (And if you want to check out more diabetic recipes, check out Diabetic Delights.)

And now, here are today's six recipes to help you through the day, including Athenian Meatloaf with Yogurt-Cucumber Sauce and Mexican Turkey Frittata. Enjoy!

ATHENIAN MEATLOAF WITH YOGURT-CUCUMBER SAUCE

Makes 8 servings

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1258

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1258.shtml

Ingredients

2 pounds 96% lean Ground Beef

1 cup soft bread crumbs*

3/4 cup finely chopped onion

1/2 cup 2% milk

1 large egg

1 tablespoon plus 1-1/2 teaspoons dried Greek seasoning, divided

1 cup low-fat or regular Greek-style yogurt

1/2 cup diced cucumber

* To make soft breadcrumbs: Tear several slices of fresh bread (French or whole wheat work well) into 1-inch pieces and pulse in a blender or food processor to make coarse crumbs. One slice of bread yields about 1/2 cup soft breadcrumbs.

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Combine Ground Beef, bread crumbs, onion, milk, egg, 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly.

Shape beef mixture into 10 x 4-inch loaf on rack in broiler pan.

Bake in 350F oven 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hours, until instant-read thermometer inserted into center registers 160F.

Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber and remaining 1-1/2 teaspoons Greek seasoning in medium bowl. Set aside.

Let stand 10 minutes; cut into slices. Serve with cucumber-yogurt sauce.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 187; Protein: 26 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 240 mg; Cholesterol: 95 mg; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: .4 g; Carbohydrates: 6 g

MEXICAN TURKEY FRITTATA

This recipe begins, “This flavorful egg and turkey frittata recipe will wake up your taste buds.”

Makes 9 servings

Source: Jennie-O

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1339.shtml

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 cups sliced small mushrooms

1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped

3 cups egg substitute or 12 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 cup shredded low-fat Mexican blend cheese

1/3 cup sliced green onions

Directions

Heat oven to 350F.

Mist 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Cook ground turkey as specified on the package. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.

Sprinkle with cumin; stir to mix.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, green pepper, mushrooms and chipotle peppers.

Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are cooked.

In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cilantro until well mixed.

Stir in turkey, cheese, mushroom mixture and green onions.

Spoon mixture into baking dish.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until set. Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 170; Protein: 24 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g

MEXICAN-STYLE STEAK AND EGGS BREAKFAST

Makes 6 servings

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1256

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1256.shtml

Ingredients

1 beef Top Sirloin Steak Boneless, cut 3/4 inch thick (about 12 ounces)

Salt

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

6 small flour tortillas (6-inch diameter), warmed

1-1/2 cups egg substitute

6 tablespoons reduced-fat shredded Cheddar cheese

6 tablespoons guacamole

6 tablespoons salsa

6 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream

Directions

Heat large, heavy nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot.

Season beef steak with salt, as desired. Place beef in skillet.

Pan-broil 10 to 13 minutes for medium rare (145F) to medium (160F) doneness, turning occasionally. Remove beef from skillet. Set aside; keep warm.

Heat oil in same skillet over medium heat until hot. Add eggs and scramble until set, stirring occasionally; keep warm.

Carve steak into thin slices. Top each tortilla with equal amounts of eggs, steak and 1 tablespoon each of cheese, guacamole, salsa and sour cream. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 271; Protein: 24 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 553 mg; Cholesterol: 45 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g

STEAK ROASTED TOMATO AND BEAN CHILI

Makes 8 servings.

Print Friendly: a href=http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1259

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1259.shtml

Ingredients

3 pounds Shoulder Steaks, cut 3/4-inch thick

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 medium green bell pepper, chopped

1 medium onion, chopped

2-1/2 cups no-salt added roasted tomato salsa

1/4 cup chili powder

2 tsp ground cumin

2 cans (15 ounces each) no-salt added black beans, rinsed, drained

Optional Toppings/Additions

Guacamole, chopped fresh cilantro, chopped purple onion, chopped tomato, shredded cheese

Directions

Cut beef steaks into 3/4-inch pieces.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in stockpot over medium heat until hot. Brown beef in three batches. Set aside.

Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, bell pepper and onion to same stockpot. Cook and stir 6 to 8 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

Return beef and accumulated juices to stockpot.

Add salsa, chili powder and cumin; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 hours or until beef is fork-tender.

Stir in beans; cook, uncovered, 10 to 15 minutes or until beans are heated through, stirring occasionally.

Serve chili in bowls. Garnish with Toppings, as desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 289; Protein: 32 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 264 mg; Cholesterol: 78 mg; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g

ALMOND APRICOT MUFFINS

This recipe begins, “These fluffy muffins are easy to make and a treat to eat. Apricot preserves and almond extract make them truly unforgettable.”

Yield: 6 servings

Source: Splenda

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1191.shtml

Ingredients

1 serving Crisco Original No-Stick Cooking Spray

1 cup Pillsbury Best All Purpose Flour

1/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 large egg

2 tablespoons Crisco Pure Canola Oil

2 tablespoons skim milk

1/2 cup Smucker's Apricot Sugar Free Preserves, plus additional for spreading on tops of muffins

1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat 6 muffin cups with no-stick cooking spray.

Combine flour, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, baking powder and salt in medium mixing bowl.

Beat together egg, oil and milk. Blend in preserves and almond extract. Add to flour mixture and stir just until moistened. Fill muffin cups evenly with batter.

Bake 20 to 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool. Spread tops with a thin layer of preserves before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 150; Calories from Fat: 50; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 190 mg; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g

AMY’S LEMON MOUSSE

This is from Diabetes Self-Management and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

4 cups fat-free (skim) milk

2 packages (4-serving size each) vanilla fat-free sugar-free instant pudding and pie filling mix

2 packages (1/2 ounce each) sugar-free powdered lemonade mix

1 container (8 ounces) frozen fat-free whipped topping, thawed

Fresh or frozen mixed berries (optional)

Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Directions

Whisk milk and pudding mix in large bowl 2 minutes or until smooth. Whisk in lemonade mix. When mixture thickens, whisk in whipped topping until smooth. Pour into 8 dessert dishes. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.

To serve, top with berries, if desired. Garnish with mint.

Yield: 8 servings. Serving size: 1 parfait.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving:Calories: 120, Carbohydrates: 21 g, Protein: 4 g, Fat: 1 g, Saturated Fat: 1 g, Cholesterol: 2 mg, Sodium: 405 mg, Fiber: 0 g,Exchanges per serving: 1 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Milk.

Wednesday, September 27, 2017

Chicken!

There was a time when chicken was relegated to Sunday dinner. Now, it's an anytime meal. Here are six chicken recipes to help you through the day, including Butternut Roast Chicken and Mediterranean Chicken & Rice Bake. Enjoy!

SLOW COOKER CHICKEN PIE SOUP

This comes from a wonderful site I’ve just found called Baked by Rachel. I definitely recommend check it out!

This recipe begins, “A hearty slow cooker chicken pie soup, loaded with chicken and vegetables. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly months!”

Yield: Serves 6 - 8; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 4 hours, 30 minutes.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken breast

3/4 C onion

1/2 C celery

3/4 C carrots

7 oz can peas, drained (roughly 3/4C)

7 oz can corn, drained (roughly 3/4C)

3 1/2 C russet potatoes

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp ground black pepper

1 tsp dried thyme

1 bay leaf

3 1/2 C chicken broth

1 1/2 C heavy cream

1/3 C all purpose flour* (see note)

Directions

Trim chicken breast of any fat. Chop onion, celery and carrots into small pieces. Peel and chop potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Drain peas and corn. Mince garlic.

To the bowl of a 5-6 quart slow cooker add prepared chicken and vegetables, along with salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf and chicken broth. Cover and allow to cook on high for 4 hours.

Remove and discard bay leaf. Remove chicken breast, shred and return to slow cooker.

In a medium bowl whisk together flour and heavy cream until smooth. Pour into slow cooker, stirring to combine. Replace cover and continue cooking for an additional 30-45 minutes.

Serve warm.

Note: *2-3Tb cornstarch may be used in place of the flour

CROCKPOT MAPLE BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICHES

1/2 C. maple flavored syrup

2 T. prepared mustard

2 T. Worcestershire sauce

2 t. lemon juice

1/2 t. chili powder

1/4 t. garlic powder

4 boneless, skinned chicken breasts

Place all ingredients in crockpot & cook on LOW for about 7 to 8 hours or until chicken is done.

You can either eat the breasts whole or shred them on buns or rice for more points.

4 servings = 225 calories, 4g fat, 1g fiber.

5 points per serving

From: Weight Watchers crockpot email list

BUTTERNUT ROAST CHICKEN

This comes from Nigella Lawson in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “Roast a chicken and you know you have a comfortable meal. Alter that a little by butterflying the chicken, a surprisingly simple task that can be carried out with a pair of kitchen scissors, and you have a quick dinner that carries with it the casual air of barbecue, without the bother. Here, buttermilk, which is usually associated with fried chicken, helps to tenderize the chicken and conveys the aromatics: you really get the full value of the rosemary, pepper and garlic. If you want to substitute maple syrup for the honey, you can. Best of all, you can leave the marinating bird in the fridge for up to two days; thus, it gets more tender and you know you have a dinner that needs no more than to be popped into the oven.” Makes 4 servings.

To view this online, go to http://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/7264-buttermilk-roast-chicken.

Ingredients

1 4-pound chicken

2 cups buttermilk

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 cloves garlic, lightly crushed

1 tablespoon crushed black peppercorns

1 tablespoon Maldon or other sea salt

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, roughly chopped

1 tablespoon honey

Preparation

Butterfly chicken by placing breast side down and using heavy-duty kitchen shears to cut along both sides of backbone. Discard backbone, turn chicken over and open it like a book. Press gently to flatten it.

Place chicken in a large freezer bag. Add buttermilk, 1/4 cup oil, garlic, peppercorns, salt, rosemary and honey. Seal bag securely and refrigerate overnight or up to two days.

Heat oven to 400 degrees.Remove chicken from marinade and place on a rack so excess can drip off. Line a roasting pan with foil and place chicken in pan. Drizzle with remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Roast for 45 minutes, then reduce heat to 325 degrees. Continue roasting until well browned and until juices run clear when chicken is pierced where leg joins thigh,about another 20 minutes.

Place chicken on a carving board and allow to rest for 10 minutes before cutting into serving pieces. Place a portion on each of four plates, and drizzle each serving with pan juices.

SHEET-PAN CIDER-MUSTARD CHICKEN WITH ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH

This is from Tbsp., and begins, “Coating chicken in an apple-mustard glaze and roasting with butternut squash on a sheet pan is as easy as it gets. But don’t think for a second that this all-in-one meal isn’t flavorful. That glaze is pure magic.”

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes; Servings: 4

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons frozen apple juice concentrate, thawed

2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard

4 tablespoons olive oil

4 bone-in skin-on chicken breasts

1 1/4 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

6 cups 1-inch cubes butternut squash (from 2 1/2-lb squash)

Directions

Heat oven to 425°F. Spray 18x13-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. In small bowl, beat apple juice concentrate, mustard and 2 tablespoons of the olive oil with whisk. Reserve 3 tablespoons of the apple juice mixture; set aside.

Season chicken with 3/4 teaspoon of the salt and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper. Place on one side of baking sheet, and brush with remaining apple juice mixture.

Place squash on other side of baking sheet. Season with remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Drizzle remaining 2 tablespoons oil over squash; toss to coat. Roast 30 to 40 minutes or until juice of chicken is clear when thickest part is cut to bone (at least 165°F) and squash is tender.

Drizzle reserved 3 tablespoons apple juice mixture over chicken breasts, and serve.

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN & RICE BAKE

This is from FamilyTime, and starts off, “The lemon, herb and olive flavors in this one-dish, oven-easy chicken supper add great taste...and the whole dish is ready in just one hour.”

Serves: 6; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 50 minutes

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

Swanson® Chicken Stock or 1 3/4 cups Swanson® Chicken Broth

1/4 cup chopped fresh Parsley

1/4 cup sliced pitted ripe olive

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 can (14.5 ounces) stewed tomatoes

1 1/4 cups uncooked regular long-grain white rice

1 3/4 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast half

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Paprika

Directions

Stir the broth, parsley, olives, lemon juice, black pepper, tomatoes and rice in a 3-quart shallow baking dish. Cover the baking dish.

Bake at 375°F. for 20 minutes. Uncover the baking dish. Place the chicken onto the rice mixture. Sprinkle with the garlic powder and paprika. Cover the baking dish.

Bake for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

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.

CHICKEN CHILI TACOS

I usually post this with my Taco Tuesday recipes. But it fits nicely here.

This is from the TODAY Show Recipes e-newsletter. Prep Time: 10 minutes; Servings: 4.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 1/2 cups prepared pico de gallo or salsa

1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 1 1/2 limes)

2 teaspoons cumin seeds, lightly toasted

2 cloves garlic. minced

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

12 taco shells (crisp or soft/flour or corn)

Preparation

Place the chicken, pico de gallo or salsa, lime juice, cumin seeds and garlic in a slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. (You can also cook on high for 3 hours.)

Allow to cool a bit. Scoop the chicken out with a big slotted spoon and place it in a large serving bowl. Use two forks to pull the meat apart. The chicken will shred easily. Stir in some cooking juice from the pot and top with the cilantro.

Place the shredded chicken, your taco shells and desired fixings on the table and let everyone put together their perfect taco.

Tuesday, September 26, 2017

Double-Post Tuesday

Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday. While it seems that cooler weather demands warm comfort food, we also want something healthy. Today's six recipes fit both bills, including Baked Macaroni and Cheese and Ginger-Blueberry Parfait. Enjoy!

ROASTED AUTUMN VEGETABLE SOUP

This recipe, as well as several other in today's post, is from a Weight Watchers' emailing lists from several years ago. This one begins, “This warm, comforting soup will stick to your ribs on cold days. Roasting the vegetables helps bring out their natural sweetness.”

Points: 2 Servings: 8

1 large onion(s), cut into large chunks

4 large carrot(s), peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

6 medium parsnip(s), peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

4 cup winter squash, such as butternut, peeled and cubed

2 sprays cooking spray

3 cup fat-free chicken broth

1/2 cup fat-free evaporated milk

1/8 tsp table salt, or to taste

1/8 tsp black pepper, or to taste

Preheat oven to 400ºF. In large roasting pan combine onion, carrots, parsnips and squash; coat with cooking spray. Roast for 15 minutes. Place vegetables in large pot. Add broth & milk; season to taste. Cook over medium-high heat for 10 minutes to allow flavors to combine. Transfer mixture to blender or food processor, or use an immersion blender in pot, & blend until smooth. (Puree soup in batches if necessary to prevent hot liquid from splattering. Or allow soup to cool before pureeing.) Yields about 1-1/2 cups per serving.

From: Weight Watchers

You can add more water or broth to the pureed soup to achieve desired thickness.

SPICED CARROT SOUP

Points: 2 Servings: 4

This recipe begins, “Who says home cooking takes hours? We used canned carrots in this curry & chili powder-seasoned soup to save on both preparation & cooking times.”

2 tsp canola oil

1/4 cup shallot(s), or red onion, chopped

1/2 tsp curry powder

1/8 tsp chili powder, chipotle-variety

29 oz canned carrots, sliced (undrained)

1 cup buttermilk

1/4 tsp table salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 tsp fresh lemon juice, divided

1/4 cup fat-free sour cream

Heat oil in medium saucepan; add shallot, curry powder & chili powder. Cook over medium heat until shallot is tender, stirring constantly, about 2 minutes. Add carrots, including can liquid, to saucepan.

Pour buttermilk into saucepan; swirl milk in pan to ‘pick up’ any remaining spices. Add salt, pepper & 1 teaspoon of lemon juice; puree in saucepan using an immersion blender. (Or puree in batches in a blender, careful not to splatter hot liquid). Taste soup & add remaining teaspoon of lemon juice, if desired.

Divide soup among 4 bowls & garnish with sour cream. Yields about 1 cup of soup & 1 tablespoon of sour cream per serving.

We used canned carrots because they cut cooking time considerably (you may use fresh carrots though, if you prefer). If you prefer a tangy-tasting soup, swap 1/2 cup of buttermilk for 1/2 cup of plain fat-free yogurt (may affect POINTS values).

For a festive look, spoon sour cream in the center of each serving. Using a toothpick, draw out "spokes" of sour cream from the center to create a starburst design.

IRISH HONEY OAT QUICK BREAD

2 tablespoons plus 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats or quick-cooking (not instant) oats, divided

1 1/3 cups whole-wheat flour or white whole-wheat flour (see Tip)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1 1/4 teaspoons salt

1 8-ounce container (scant 1 cup) nonfat or low-fat plain yogurt

1 large egg

1/4 cup canola oil

1/4 cup clover honey or other mild honey

3/4 cup nonfat or low-fat milk

Position rack in middle of oven; preheat to 375°F. Generously coat 9-by-5-inch (or similar size) loaf pan with cooking spray. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon oats in the pan. Tip pan back & forth to coat sides & bottom with oats; set aside another 1 tablespoon oats for garnishing the loaf.

Thoroughly stir together whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda & salt in a large bowl. Using a fork, beat together the remaining 1 cup oats, yogurt, egg, oil & honey in medium bowl until well blended. Stir in milk. Gently stir the yogurt mixture into the flour mixture just until thoroughly incorporated but not over-mixed (excess mixing can cause toughening). Immediately scrape batter into the pan, spreading evenly to the edges. Sprinkle the reserved 1 tablespoon oats over top.

Bake loaf until well browned on top & a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 40 to 50 minutes. (It's normal for the top to crack.) Let stand in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Run a table knife around & under the loaf to loosen it & turn it out onto the rack. Let cool until barely warm, about 45 minutes.

Makes 12 slices; 4 points

Nutrition Information: Per slice: 192 calories; 6 g fat (0 g sat, 3 g mono); 18 mg cholesterol; 31 g carbohydrate; 6 g protein; 2 g fiber; 395 mg sodium; 64 mg potassium. Nutrition bonus: Iron (15% daily value).

2 Carbohydrate Servings

Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat

TIP: White whole-wheat flour, made from a special variety of white wheat, is light in color and flavor but has the same nutritional properties as regular whole-wheat flour. Two companies that distribute the flour nationally are King Arthur Flour (kingarthurflour.com) and Bob's Red Mill (bobsredmill.com).

MAKE AHEAD TIP: Store cooled bread, tightly wrapped, for up to 1 day at room temperature. If desired, warm (wrapped in foil) at 375°F before serving.

This bread has a pleasant flavor and divinely moist, tender crumb. It goes well with almost any soup or chowder. Plus, the recipe requires minimal mixing and cleanup, calls for ingredients usually stocked in the pantry, and is tasty yet healthful.

BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE

Serves: 8; 5 Points

12 oz uncooked macaroni, elbow-type

1/2 cup fat-free sour cream

12 oz fat-free evaporated milk

8 oz low-fat cheddar or Colby cheese, shredded

1 Tbsp Dijon mustard

1/4 tsp table salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/8 tsp ground nutmeg

2 Tbsp dried bread crumbs

2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350ºF.

Cook pasta according to package directions without added fat or salt; drain & transfer to a large bowl. While pasta is still hot, stir in sour cream; set aside.

Heat milk in small saucepan over medium heat until tiny bubbles appear just around the edges. Reduce heat to low, add cheese & simmer until cheese melts, stirring constantly with wire whisk, about 2 minutes; remove from heat & stir in mustard, salt, pepper & nutmeg.

Add cheese mixture to pasta; mix well. Transfer to a 4-quart casserole dish. Combine bread crumbs & Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over pasta. Bake until top is golden, about 30 minutes. Yields about 1 cup per serving.

BLUEBERRY SAUCE

This recipe and the next one (Ginger-Blueberry Parfait) are from an article on Prevention, titled “11 Recipes with Fresh Blueberries.” Click here to see the article and all twelve recipes.

This sauce would go well over ice cream. Yum!

SERVINGS: 4 – 6

1 pt fresh blueberries (2 C)

1/4 C + 1 Tbsp confectioners' sugar

1/4 C water

1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

2 Tbsp butter

Put blueberries, sugar, water, and cinnamon in medium saucepan.

Cover and cook over medium heat until blueberries have broken down a bit and mixture becomes soupy, about 5 minutes.

Remove from heat and swirl in butter. Serve warm or at room temperature over waffles, pancakes, ice cream, or pound cake.

NUTRITION (per serving) 140 cal, 1 g pro, 22 g carb, 2 g fiber, 6 g fat, 3.5 g sat fat, 50 mg sodium

GINGER-BLUEBERRY PARFAIT

SERVINGS: 4

1 C blueberries

1 tsp grated peeled fresh ginger

4 Tbsp maple syrup, divided

1 Hass avocado, peeled, pitted, and chopped

1 C part-skim ricotta cheese

4 sprigs fresh mint

Combine the blueberries, ginger, and 1 Tbsp of the maple syrup in a small bowl until well mixed. Let stand for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a food processor, combine the avocado, ricotta, and the remaining 3 Tbsp maple syrup. Puree the mixture.

Layer the blueberry mixture with the ricotta mixture alternately in 4 parfait glasses or dessert dishes, ending with the berries. Garnish with the mint sprigs.

NUTRITION (per serving) 217 cal, 8 g pro, 25 g carb, 10 g fat, 4 g sat fat,3 g fiber, 83 mg sodium

CROCKPOT MAPLE BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICHES

4 servings = 225 calories, 4g fat, 1g fiber; 5 points per serving

1/2 C. maple flavored syrup

2 T. prepared mustard

2 T. Worcestershire sauce

2 t. lemon juice

1/2 t. chili powder

1/4 t. garlic powder

4 boneless, skinned chicken breasts

Place all ingredients in crockpot & cook on LOW for about 7 to 8 hours or until chicken is done.

You can either eat the breasts whole or shred them on buns or rice for more points.

Taco Tuesday

It's Taco Tuesday. Here are six taco recipes to help you through the day, including Chicken Chili Tacos and Middle-School Tacos. Enjoy!

GRILLED TOFU TACOS WITH WALLA WALLA SWEET ONION SLAW (AND OPTIONAL CHICKEN)

I originally found this at Oh My Veggies. The site has a mess of taco recipes from different places, which can be found here.

This recipe begins, “Smoky seasoned tofu (and/or chicken), creamy avocado, and crunchy slaw make these super easy summer tacos shine.”

PREP: 2 HOURS 20 MINUTES COOK: 15 MINUTES TOTAL: 2 HOURS 35 MINUTES; YIELD: 10-12 TACOS.

This is from Kitchen Treaty and can be viewed online at http://www.kitchentreaty.com/grilled-tofu-tacos-with-walla-walla-sweet-onion-slaw-and-optional-chicken/

Ingredients

2 (14-ounce) blocks extra-firm tofu

or, if using chicken for half:

1 (14-ounce block extra firm tofu, and

1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken thighsFor the marinade:

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup lime juice

2 tablespoons cider vinegar

1 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 cloves garlic, minced

For the slaw:

1/2 medium cabbage, quartered and thinly sliced

1/2 medium Walla Walla Sweet onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup lime juice

3 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Plus:

1 large avocado, sliced

10-12 tortillas (depending on how full you like to stuff your tacos)*

Directions:

Press tofu to drain. I place each block on a dinner plate on top of a layer of paper towels, then place more paper towels on top. Then I put 3-4 dinner plates on top and let it press down on the tofu for 20-30 minutes. Slice tofu into 6-7 1/2-inch pieces. Place in a zipper bag or container with airtight cover. If using chicken, add chicken to a zipper bag.

Make the marinade. Add all marinade ingredients to a small bowl and whisk until combined. Pour marinade over tofu and/or chicken. If using half tofu/half chicken, just evenly divide the marinade between the two. Place in refrigerator and marinate for 2 hours.

Heat grill to medium-high, about 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook tofu and/or chicken until browned and cooked through, 10-14 minutes. We only have one grill, so we always use the left side for my vegetarian stuff, and the right side for the meaty stuff. Remove tofu and/or meat from grill and let cool enough to cut into taco-size pieces (I just cut the tofu pieces in half).

Place the tortillas on the grill and heat until slightly browned and heated through, about 1-2 minutes on each side. Keep on a plate covered by a damp dishtowel until ready to serve.

While the tofu/meat and tortillas are cooking, make the slaw. In a large bowl, toss together all ingredients with salad tongs or your clean hands. Taste and add additional salt and pepper if desired.

To assemble tacos, grab a tortilla and lay one or two avocado slices on the bottom. Top with a coulple pieces of tofu or chicken, and top with slaw. Serve.

*GLUTEN-FREE OPTION

Use corn tortillas (or other gluten-free tortillas)

VEGETARIAN TACO SOUP IN THE CROCKPOT

This recipe left me in a quandary: do I post it on Taco Tuesday with tacos, or should I post it with soups? I guess this would fit in both places, which is why I'm adding it today.

This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com’s Vegetarian Food. Jolinda wrote, “I love Mexican food. Or, perhaps it's more accurate to say I love Mexican-American food. Or rather, I love both!

“This vegetarian taco soup recipe with kidney beans, pinto beans and black beans isn't going to win any awards of authenticity, but it's quick to prepare (you really just dump everything in the crockpot), easy, high-protein, nearly fat-free, and deliciously satisfying. Plus, it's a great vegetarian and vegan option for families on a budget. Keep it vegan by omitting the optional cheese and sour cream toppings, or use dairy-free and vegan substitutes.”

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 480 minutes; Total Time: 485 minutes; Yield: 6 servings as a main dish

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 can corn kernels, drained

1 can kidney beans or navy beans, drained

1 can pinto beans, drained

1 can black beans, drained

1 7-ounce can green chiles (optional - you may want to omit this if you're cooking for kids)

1 14-ounce can stewed tomatoes (Mexican-style is best, if you can find it) - do not drain

1 package taco seasoning mix

1/4 tsp cumin

3/4 tsp onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Optional garnishes:

tortilla chips or corn chips

grated cheese

chopped green onions

fresh chopped cilantro

Preparation

Add ingredients in crockpot. Cook on low crockpot setting for 8-10 hours.

If you're in a hurry, you can also set this on high in the crockpot for 3 hours.

Top each bowl of soup with optional garnishes to serve: cheese, a dollop of sour cream, some tortilla chips or corn chips and fresh chopped cilantro or green onions.

This is a thicker soup, similar to a stew. To thin it out, you can add a little vegetable broth or soy milk, if you like.

MIDDLE-SCHOOL TACOS

This is from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Sam wrote, “Here is a taste of a time when Mexican food was not as widely available in the United States as it is today, when parents and sports bars looked for food to serve children and those who eat like them, when the combination of crunch and fat and silk was divine. It still can be, if you avoid the taco kits of yore and make your own picadillo, then put it in hard-shell tacos and top how you like. For those who want to avoid prefabricated taco shells, make a form out of aluminum foil, fry fresh corn tortillas in shimmering neutral oil and then allow them to cool into shape on their aluminum saddle. Taco night. You can’t eat just two.”

Serves 6; Time: 30 minutes.

This was featured in “The Case for Hard-Shell Tacos” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons neutral oil, like canola, peanut or grapeseed

1 medium-size yellow onion, peeled and diced

4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

2 pounds ground beef

2 tablespoons chile powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste

2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 teaspoons cornstarch

2 teaspoons smoked paprika (or substitute hot or sweet paprika)

1 teaspoon crushed red-pepper flakes, or to taste

1 cup chicken broth or beef broth, low-sodium if store-bought

12-18 hard taco shells

Toppings: grated cheese, sliced jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, etc.

Preparation

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat, and add the oil. When it begins to shimmer, add the onion, and cook until softened and starting to brown, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.

Add the garlic, and cook for a minute or so to soften, and then the ground beef. Cook until the beef is starting to brown, stirring and chopping with a spoon to break up the meat, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Pour off excess fat, leaving only a tablespoon or two in the pan.

Heat oven to 325. Add the chile powder, cumin, salt, pepper, cornstarch, paprika and red-pepper flakes, and stir to combine. Add the broth, stir, bring to a simmer and cook uncovered until the sauce has thickened slightly, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.

As sauce cooks, place taco shells on a sheet pan, and toast in oven until they are crisp and smell nutty. Serve a few tablespoons of meat in each taco, along with whatever toppings you like.

CRUNCHY BLACK BEAN TACOS

This comes from The Kitchn’s e-newsletter. If you haven’t signed up for The Kitchn’s e-newsletter yet, I highly recommend that, as well as its sibling site, Apartment Therapy.

This recipe serves 3 to 4, or makes 8 tacos; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes and can be found online by clicking here.

2 cups cooked black beans

1/2 cup minced red onion

2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

Pinch of salt

4 to 6 ounces (1 heaping cup) grated Pepper Jack cheese

2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil

8 corn tortillas

Toppings

Avocado

Hot sauce

Salsa

Sour cream

In a medium bowl, add beans along with red onion, cilantro, cumin, and paprika. Add a pinch of salt and lightly mash all the ingredients together. Grate the cheese and have it ready as well.

In a large, nonstick or cast-iron skillet, add the 2 tablespoons oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add one corn tortilla at a time and let each get hot in the oil for a few seconds. Then add about 1/4 cup of the bean filling to one half of the tortilla. Top with a sprinkle of grated cheese. Try not to overfill the tacos, or you might have issues flipping them without losing filling.

Using a spatula, carefully fold the other half of the tortilla over to form a shell. Press down lightly on the tortilla so it holds its shape. If some cheese spills out, don’t worry — it will get crispy and delicious.

As the first taco cooks, move it to the side and begin a second one. Depending on the size of your pan, you can cook two or three tacos at once. A griddle will hold even more.

Cook each taco until they are nicely browned and crispy, about 3 minutes per side. When flipping the taco to cook on the other side, use a spatula and flip the taco toward the fold so the filling doesn’t fall out. If your pan is very dry between batches, add another drizzle of oil.

Place the cooked tacos in a warm oven while you finish the rest. If the tacos are very greasy, blot them with a paper towel before moving them to the oven.

Serve tacos with toppings like hot sauce, salsa, avocados, and sour cream.

Recipe Notes:

Corn tortillas are resilient to heat. Don’t worry about burning them; they are very sturdy. Just be sure to cook tortillas on each side long enough to get them really crispy.

CHICKEN CHILI TACOS

This is from The TODAY Show. Prep Time: 10 minutes; Servings: 4

To view this online, go to http://www.today.com/recipes/chicken-chili-tacos-t28111.

Ingredients

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 1/2 cups prepared pico de gallo or salsa

1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 1 1/2 limes)

2 teaspoons cumin seeds, lightly toasted

2 cloves garlic. minced

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

12 taco shells (crisp or soft/flour or corn)

Preparation

Place the chicken, pico de gallo or salsa, lime juice, cumin seeds and garlic in a slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. (You can also cook on high for 3 hours.)

Allow to cool a bit. Scoop the chicken out with a big slotted spoon and place it in a large serving bowl. Use two forks to pull the meat apart. The chicken will shred easily. Stir in some cooking juice from the pot and top with the cilantro.

Place the shredded chicken, your taco shells and desired fixings on the table and let everyone put together their perfect taco.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH TACOS WITH CRANBERRY-JALAPENO RELISH

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Yield: 4-6 servings; Serving Size: 2-3 tacos

Relish adapted from The New York Times

Read more at http://ohmyveggies.com/butternut-squash-tacos-with-cranberry-jalapeno-relish/

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

12 small corn tortillas

2 cups cooked black beans

For the Cranberry-Jalapeño Relish:

1 (12-ounce) package fresh cranberries

1 1/2 pounds tart apples, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1/2 cup sugar

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger

Instructions

Preheat oven to 450°F.

In a large bowl, toss together the butternut squash, olive oil and salt. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer and roast until tender, 20-30 minutes, tossing once halfway through.

Meanwhile, prepare the Cranberry-Jalapeño Relish. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, apples, sugar and apple cider vinegar. Cook, stirring frequently, until sugar has dissolved. Raise the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring constantly, until cranberries start to pop and mixture has thickened, 5-7 minutes. Stir in the jalapeño and ginger and remove from heat.

Warm the corn tortillas according to package directions. Serve the tortillas stuffed with the butternut squash and black beans, and topped with the Cranberry-Jalapeño Relish.

Notes

Both the butternut squash and relish can be made ahead of time! Just reheat the butternut squash before stuffing it into the tortillas.

Monday, September 25, 2017

Double-Post Monday

Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Here are six recipes to help you through the day, including Simple Perfect Enchiladas and Potato Cavatelli. Enjoy!

PEACH AND BLUEBERRY TART WITH PECAN CRUST

This recipe, as well as the next one (Blueberry-Pomegranate Smoothie), was found in an article on Prevention, titled “11 Recipes with Fresh Blueberries.” Click here to see the article and all twelve recipes.

SERVINGS: 8

Crust

1 cup pecan halves

1 cup whole wheat pastry flour

2 tsp freshly grated lemon zest

1/8 tsp salt

1 egg white, beaten

2 Tbsp canola oil

1/2 Tbsp cold water

Filling

3/4 cup all-fruit peach preserves

1 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch

1 1/4 pounds ripe but firm peaches, sliced

3/4 cup fresh blueberries

Topping

1 cup fat-free Greek-style yogurt

3 Tbsp wildflower honey

To Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Coat a 10" fluted removable bottom tart pan or springform pan with cooking spray.

Set aside 8 pecan halves. Place the remaining pecans in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade or a blender. Process until finely ground. Add the flour, lemon zest, and salt. Process briefly to blend. Combine the egg white, oil, and water in a measuring cup. With the machine running, drizzle the liquid mixture into the bowl. Add up to 1 tablespoon water if needed. Turn off the machine as soon as the ingredients start to bind together.

Turn the mixture onto a lightly floured work surface. Pat into a disk (the mixture will be soft). Transfer to the bottom of the prepared pan. Press into the bottom and 1/2" up the side. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.

To Prepare the Filling: Combine the preserves and cornstarch in a small bowl. Add the peaches and blueberries and toss gently to mix. Spoon into the prepared crust. Bake for about 1 hour 15 minutes or until the juices are bubbling. Place pan on a rack to cool completely.

To Prepare the Topping: Whisk the yogurt with the honey in a bowl. Spoon on top of each serving and top with a reserved pecan half.

NUTRITION (per serving) 322 calories, 6 g protein, 44 g carbohydrates, 15 g fat, 1.5 g saturated fat, 1 mg cholesterol, 52 mg sodium, 3 g fiber

BLUEBERRY-POMEGRANATE SMOOTHIE

SERVINGS: 1

2/3 cup frozen blueberries (unthawed)

1/2 cup fat-free French vanilla yogurt (we used Stonyfield)

1/3 cup vanilla soy milk

1/4 cup pomegranate juice

Put 2/3 cup frozen blueberries (unthawed, 1/2 cup yogurt, 1/3 cup soy milk, and 1/4 cup pomegranate juice into a blender.

Blend on high speed until smooth.

NUTRITION (per serving) 226.8 cal, 9.2 g pro, 44.9 g carb, 3 g fiber, 2 g fat, 0.3 g sat fat, 123.4 mg sodium

HERBED CARROT SOUP



From the December 2005 issue of Runner's World; reprinted from HerbWise: Growing, Cooking, WellBeing, by Bruce Burnett



2 pounds of carrots, chopped

1 large onion, diced

6 sprigs of fresh parsley, 3 sprigs of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 6 six black peppercorns, bundled together so that they can be easily removed after cooking

2 cloves garlic, crushed

4 Tbs of butter

6 C of vegetable stock

Freshly grated mace or nutmeg

Salt & pepper to taste

Lightly sauté the onion & garlic in the butter. Add the stock & carrots & simmer for about 15 minutes. Add the bundle of herbs & continue to simmer for another 20 minutes. Remove the herbs, allow the soup to cool, & put it through the blender in batches. Reheat the soup over low heat while adding the mace or nutmeg & salt & pepper to taste. Serve with some fresh, homemade bread & garnish with some fresh parsley & a little chopped fresh thyme.

Note: The original recipe called for vegetable or chicken stock.

ZUCCHINI ENCHILADAS

This comes from The Food Network Kitchen, and begins, “No tortillas? No problem. Take advantage of summer's squash bounty and wrap your enchilada filling up in zucchini.”

Total Time: 1 hr 5 min; Active Time: 35 min; Yield: 4 servings (3 enchiladas per person); Level: Easy

To view this line, click here.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 scallions, sliced (white and green parts separated)

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon chili powder

3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (skin discarded)1 1/2 cups salsa (not chunky)

1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese

3 to 4 medium zucchini

Several dashes chipotle hot sauce, plus more for serving, optional

2 tablespoons sour cream

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the scallion whites and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until soft, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle in the chili powder and cook, stirring, until the scallions are coated and the oil is brick red, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat and stir in the chicken, 1/2 cup of the salsa and 1/2 cup of the cheese. Set aside.

Halve the zucchini lengthwise and arrange cut-side down on a work surface. Use a Y-shaped vegetable peeler to shave off ribbons the entire length of each zucchini and as wide as possible (the first few may be too skinny). Make 36 zucchini ribbons total.

Lay out 3 ribbons, slightly overlapping to make a rectangle (think of this as your "tortilla"). Pile about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture down along one of the short ends of the zucchini tortilla and then roll up to enclose the filling. Put in a 2- to 3-quart baking dish. Roll up the remaining zucchini ribbons and filling and arrange in the dish. Top the rolls with the remaining 1 cup salsa. Add several dashes of the hot sauce and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup cheese.

Bake until the cheese is melted and the filling is hot, about 25 minutes. Let cool for a few minutes. Thin the sour cream out with a little water and drizzle over the enchiladas. Sprinkle with the reserved scallion greens and serve with more hot sauce if you'd like.

SIMPLE PERFECT ENCHILADAS

This comes from
The Food Network's Ree Drummond. Total Time: 1 hour; Prep: 20 minutes; Cook: 40 minutes; Yield: 6 servings; Level: Easy.

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/simple-perfect-enchiladas-recipe.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

Sauce:

1 tablespoon canola oil

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

One 28-ounce can enchilada or Mexican red sauce

2 cups chicken broth

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Meat:

1 tablespoon canola oil

1 pound ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

Two 4-ounce cans diced green chiles

1/2 teaspoon salt

10 to 14 corn tortillas

Canola oil, for frying

1/2 cup chopped black olives

1 cup chopped green onions

3 cups grated sharp Cheddar

Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Beans and/or rice, for serving

Directions

For the sauce: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the canola oil and flour. Whisk together and allow to bubble for 1 minute. Pour in the red sauce, chicken broth, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer while you prepare the other ingredients.

For the meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the oil. Brown the ground beef with the onions. Drain the fat, and then add the green chiles. Add the salt and stir to combine. Turn off the heat and set aside.

In a small skillet over medium heat, lightly fry the tortillas in canola oil just until soft. Do not crisp. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat until all the tortillas have been fried.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Spread 1/2 cup of the sauce in the bottom of a 9 by 13-inch baking dish. Dip each tortilla into the sauce. Set the sauce-soaked tortillas on a cookie sheet. Onto each tortilla, place some of the meat mixture, black olives and green onions. Top with a generous portion of grated Cheddar. Roll up the tortilla to contain the filling inside.

Place the tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the rest of the tortillas. Stir the cilantro into the sauce and ladle a little sauce over the top. End with a generous sprinkling of cheese. Bake the enchiladas until bubbly, about 20 minutes. Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro over the top. Serve with beans and/or rice.

POTATO CAVATELLI

This comes from Kim Severson in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. Kim wrote, “These are an easy, homey version of handmade pasta that freeze well. They are sturdier and more toothsome than gnocchi but have more character than dried cavatelli. It takes a little practice to get the flip of the indentation just right, but once you get the feel for it you can turn out enough for dinner quickly. They hold up well under a heavy tomato ragù, but also take well to a simple sauce of butter, a little pasta water and Parmesan or pecorino. This recipe is easy to double, too, which leaves plenty to freeze for another night. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet dusted in flour, then store in a zippered plastic bag.” Time: 45 minutes; makes 6 servings as a first course, 4 as a main course.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 large russet potatoes

1 tablespoon butter

1/4 cup milk

1/4 cup neutral oil, like canola

1 teaspoon kosher salt

4 eggs

3 cups flour/450 grams, plus more for rolling

Preparation

Boil potatoes unpeeled and send through a ricer to make 2 cups. Alternately, peel and boil, then mash. Mix in butter and milk. Let cool.

In a sturdy bowl, using a stand mixer with a dough hook, or a wooden spoon or your hands, mix potatoes, oil, salt and eggs until smooth. Work in 2 cups flour, gradually adding more until dough is stiff and not sticky. (The amount of flour needed can vary greatly.)

Pinch off a ball of dough, roll into a rope about an inch in diameter and cut into 3/4-inch dumplings. On a floured surface, press your thumb against the cut side of each dumpling and press down and away, so the dough flattens and flips up over your thumb. The result should look like a miniature hot dog bun.

In boiling salted water, cook cavatelli, stirring once or twice as soon as you put them in, for about 5 minutes or until they rise to the top. Alternately, put them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then store in the freezer in a plastic bag. Dumplings will take about 10 to 12 minutes to cook. Top with tomato sauce, pesto or butter and Parmesan.

Meatless Monday

It's Meatless Monday. Here are today's six vegetarian recipes to help you through the day, including Vegetarian Chili Casserole and Black Bean Tostadas with Kiwifruit Salsa. Enjoy!

VEGETARIAN CHILI CASSEROLE

This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com’s Vegetarian Food. Jolinda wrote, “A southwestern-style vegetarian chili casserole recipe made from pre-made or canned vegetarian chili, hominy, and topped with crushed corn chips. It won't take long to get this simple chili casserole into the oven and on to the table.”

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 onion, chopped small

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp cumin

1 tbsp olive oil

approx. 2 cups corn tortilla chips, crushed and divided

1 15 ounce can vegetarian chili

1 15 ounce can pinto or navy beans

1 15 ounce can hominy

1 4 ounce can mild green chilies, sliced

1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Preparation

Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees.

Sautee the onion, garlic, and cumin in olive oil until onions are soft, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside. In a large casserole dish, add half the crushed corn chips, then the chili, pinto or navy beans, homini and green chilies. Add garlic and onions mixture. Sprinkle the cheese and remaining corn chips over the top.

Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.

BLACK BEAN TOSTADAS WITH KIWIFRUIT SALSA

This comes from the January/February 2014 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 56, and begins, “Marinating onions in lime juice for just 15 minutes develops the flavors of a quick-stir fruit salsa. Taste the jalapeño before you add it to the salsa; fresh chiles can vary in heat and intensity.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

1/2 cup chopped white onion, plus 1/3 cup minced white onion, divided

1 Tbs. lime juice

1/4 tsp. salt

3 medium kiwifruit, peeled and diced

1/2 cup coarsely chopped cilantro

1 Tbs. finely chopped jalapeño chile

3 dried New Mexico chiles, seeded and cut into small pieces

2 tsp. olive oil

1 15-oz. can black beans, drained, liquid reserved

4 tostada shells

1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

Toss together chopped onion, lime juice, and salt in bowl. Let stand 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in kiwifruit, cilantro, and jalapeño.

Grind dried chiles to fine particles (like sugar) in spice mill or coffee grinder; set aside.

Heat oil in nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion, cover, and cook 5 minutes, or until softened, stirring occasionally. Add beans, 1/2 cup reserved bean liquid, and 2 1 /2 tsp. ground chiles. Mash beans, leaving some whole for texture. Cook 5 minutes, or until mixture is thickened, but moist, stirring often.

Place 1 tostada shell on each plate. Divide bean mixture among tostadas, leaving 1/2-inch border. Top each with 1/4 cup yogurt and 1/4 cup salsa; dust with ground chiles. Serve with remaining salsa.

nutritional information Per Tostada: Calories: 241; Protein: 12 g; Total Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 37 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 325 mg; Fiber: 7 g; Sugar: 13 g; Gluten-Free

WARM RED CABBAGE SALAD WITH SWEET POTATOES

This recipe comes from the November/December 2015 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 40, and begins, “Crisp-tender, just-cooked cabbage serves as a warm salad base for seasoned sweet potatoes. To build a meal around this dish, chef Michael Anthony suggests adding ‘a few other dishes, like roasted Brussels sprouts and roasted parsnips, for a variety of textures and to give the meal depth and a sense of progression.’” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (2 cups)

1 Tbs. butter

1/8 tsp. light brown sugar

4 Tbs. olive oil, divided

1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped

1/4 cup raisins

2 Tbs. toasted pine nuts

2 tsp. lemon juice

1 tsp. red wine vinegar

1/2 medium head red cabbage, quartered and shredded (6 cups)

2 cloves garlic, smashed

Combine sweet potato, butter, brown sugar, and 11/2 cups water in small saucepan, season with salt and pepper, if desired, and bring to a boil. Simmer 12 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender, and most of water has evaporated. Add 2 Tbs. oil, parsley, raisins, pine nuts, lemon juice, and vinegar, and cook 3 to 4 minutes more, or until all remaining liquid has evaporated.

Heat remaining 2 Tbs. oil in large skillet over high heat. Add cabbage and garlic, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cook 5 minutes, or until cabbage wilts, stirring often.

Remove garlic cloves. Transfer cabbage to serving bowl, and top with sweet potato mixture.

nutritional information Per Per 3/4-cup serving: Calories: 199; Protein: 2 g; Total Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Sodium: 62 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 9 g; Gluten-Free

CARROT SOUP WITH COCONUT MILK

This recipe, also from the November/December 2015 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 41, begins, “This simple recipe is chef Michael Anthony’s go-to soup for out-of-town guests, because it satisfies their taste for the exotic when they visit New York City.” Serves 4.

To view this online, click here.

4 Tbs. olive oil, divided

1 small onion, halved and diced (1 cup)

1/2 small fennel bulb, halved and thinly sliced (1/2 cup)

1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)

1 1/2 lb. carrots, sliced

3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

1 cup fresh orange juice

1/2 cup coconut milk

1/2 cup minced radishes

Heat 2 Tbs. oil in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, fennel, and garlic, and cook 5 minutes, or until softened. Add carrots, and cook 5 minutes, lowering heat (if necessary) to prevent browning.

Add broth (or water) and orange juice, and simmer soup 10 minutes, or until carrots are just tender. Add coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, if desired, and simmer 10 minutes more.

Transfer soup to blender, and process until satiny smooth. Serve hot or cold, drizzled with remaining 2 Tbs. oil and sprinkled with radishes.

nutritional information Per Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 307; Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 20 g; Saturated Fat: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 31 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 240 mg; Fiber: 7 g; Sugar: 17 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

SWISS EASTER RICE TART

This comes from Florence Fabricant in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. I know, it’s an Easter rice tart, and Easter has passed, but it still looks yummy. Besides, there’s no reason not to have it any other time!

Anyway, Florence wrote, “This is a custard tart, with rice, lemon and almonds in the filling, which is served only at Easter in Switzerland. ‘It was called gâteau de Pâques and I remember it very well,’ said Gray Kunz, the chef who was born in Singapore but grew up in Geneva and Bern. ‘There would be a bunny in icing sugar stenciled on top.’ Nick Malgieri, the baking teacher and author, based this somewhat lighter recipe on several he found in Switzerland.” Time: 2 hours; makes 8 to 10 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour and more for dusting

1 tablespoon plus 1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

11 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, in 11 slices

1/2 cup long-grain rice

3 cups milk

2 teaspoons grated lemon zest

1/2 cup blanched almonds, finely ground in food processor

3 large eggs

Confectioners' sugar

Preparation

Combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt and the baking powder in food processor. Pulse to blend. Add 10 tablespoons butter and pulse 3 to 4 times, until butter is in pea-size pieces. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons cold water. Pulse 4 times. Dough will not come together. Turn dough out on lightly floured work surface and knead gently a few times to form a disk. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate at least 1 hour.

Meanwhile, half fill a 3-quart saucepan with water, bring to a boil, stir in rice, lower heat to medium and cook until rice is soft, about 15 minutes. Drain rice and return it to saucepan. Add milk, remaining butter, 1/2 cup sugar and remaining salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer until mixture has thickened almost to a risotto consistency, about 25 minutes.

Place saucepan in a large bowl of ice and water 10 minutes, to cool mixture to tepid. Purée in food processor. Pour into a bowl and add lemon zest. Mix ground almonds with 1 tablespoon flour and add to bowl. Stir in eggs one at a time.

Place oven rack in lowest position and preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove pastry from refrigerator and place on lightly floured surface. Lightly dust top with flour. Use a rolling pin to press down on dough to soften it. Roll out disk to 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to a 10-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Press dough evenly into pan. Trim edges flush with pan. Pour filling into pastry.

Bake about 35 minutes, until filling is set and golden. Cool on a rack. Dust with sifted confectioners’ sugar before serving.

PEANUT BUTTER SANDWICH COOKIES

This recipe, from page 55 of the December 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, begins, “These sandwich cookies are held together by a rich (and ridiculously easy) chocolate filling.” Makes 24 sandwiches.

To view this recipe online, click here.

Cookies

2 cups smooth natural-style peanut butter

4 oz. Earth Balance margarine (1 stick)

1 cup dark brown sugar

1/2 cup evaporated cane sugar

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 cup plain soymilk or almond milk

3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp. baking soda

2 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. salt

1/3 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, chopped

Filling

1/2 cup coconut creamer or soy creamer

8 oz. vegan chocolate chips (1 1/4 cups)

To make Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper, or coat with cooking spray.

Cream peanut butter, margarine, brown sugar, cane sugar, and vanilla 2 to 3 minutes with electric mixer, or until smooth. Beat in soymilk and 1/4 cup water.

Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and peanuts in separate bowl. Add flour mixture to peanut butter mixture, and beat just until dough forms.

Scoop 1 Tbs. dough onto prepared baking sheets 2 to 3 inches apart. Make crisscross pattern on top of each Cookie by pressing down with fork. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until edges of Cookies begin to brown. Cool on baking sheet.

To make Filling: Heat creamer in top half of double boiler over medium heat until steaming. Pour hot creamer over chocolate chips in bowl, and let stand 30 seconds. Mix creamer and chocolate with wooden spoon until chocolate is melted, then whisk until smooth.

Spread 2 tsp. Filling on flat sides of 24 Cookies. Top with remaining Cookies.

nutritional information Per Cookie sandwich: Calories: 344; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 18 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 38 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 304 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 18 g; Vegan