Besides being Diabetic Thursday, it's also Double-Post Thursday. Today's post has six yummy Mexican recipes, including Enchiladas Con Carne and Apple-Chicken Quesadillas. Enjoy!
ENCHILADAS CON CARNE
O.M.G.! This recipe looks good enough to make a vegetarian temporarily eat meat! Fortunately, there are plenty of good meat substitutes (my favorite being Boca Veggie Ground Crumbles, followed by MorningStar Farms Grillers® Crumbles™) to make this recipe do-able without meat.
(Note to self: Try this recipe with the crumbles and veggie stock.)
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Sam wrote, “There are a few cool tricks to this recipe, one of which I picked up from an old issue of Bon Appétit, one I learned from Robb Walsh, the great Tex-Mex scholar and restaurateur who runs El Real Tex-Mex in Houston, and a final one I learned by happenstance. First, for the thickening agent in the chile sauce, toast raw all-purpose flour in a pan until it is nutty and golden brown, then reserve it to stir in with the browned beef later in the recipe. Second, if you like truly melty cheese in the classic Tex-Mex tradition, use a mixture of American cheese, like Velveeta, with the Cheddar you use inside and on top of the finished enchiladas. Finally, if you’re fearful that a casserole of cheese, chili and fried tortillas may be a little rich for dinner, serve it with a bowl of tomatillo pineapple salsa on the side. The acidity provides a nice balance. (Note also that as with all recipes, but particularly this one, some planning and practice can get the preparation down to 60 minutes.)” Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 1 1/ 2 hours.
Sam, if you’re reading this, I hope you’re cool with the idea of my tinkering with the recipe for vegetarians. If not, zap me a comment…or even just to say “hi”. And anyone else who wants to leave a comment on this - or any other blog posting of mine - feel free to.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Chili Con Carne:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons neutral oil, like canola
1 pound ground chuck beef, ideally 20 percent fat
Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
1 medium white onion, peeled and chopped
2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
1 jalapeño pepper or more to taste, seeds removed if you want it less spicy, stemmed and chopped
1 cup chopped or canned crushed tomatoes
3 tablespoons chile powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, ideally Mexican
2 cups chicken stock, ideally homemade or low-sodium if store-bought
For the Enchiladas:
1/2 cup neutral oil, like canola
12 yellow corn tortillas
3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, or a mixture of 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese and 1 1/2 cups American cheese, like Velveeta
1 medium-size white onion, peeled and chopped (optional)
Preparation
Prepare the chili con carne: Put flour in a large sauté pan set over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until it begins to turn golden brown and smell nutty, then pour it onto a plate to cool.
Wipe out sauté pan and return it to high heat with 2 tablespoons oil. When oil is hot and shimmery, add ground beef to pan, and cook, breaking it up with a fork and stirring, until it is well browned, about 12 to 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then use a slotted spoon to remove meat to a bowl, leaving drippings behind.
Add onion, garlic and jalapeño to pan and cook, stirring to scrape up any browned bits of meat, for 10 to 12 minutes, or until vegetables are soft. Stir in tomatoes and cook until their liquid has evaporated, then add chile powder, cumin and oregano and stir to combine. After a minute or so, when mixture begins to turn fragrant, return browned meat to pan, along with toasted flour, and stir well to combine.
Lower heat to medium-high and slowly stir in chicken stock, 1/2 cup at a time, until mixture has thickened and started to simmer. Lower heat again and allow chili to cook slowly for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until meat is tender. Add more stock or water if needed. Use immediately, or let cool, cover and refrigerate for up to a few days.
When you are ready to cook the enchiladas, heat oven to 425 degrees. In a medium sauté pan set over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 cup neutral oil until it begins to shimmer. Using tongs or a wide spatula, place a tortilla in the hot fat; it should start to bubble immediately. Heat tortilla for about 10 seconds a side, until soft and lightly browned. Remove tortilla and set on a rack set over a baking pan, or just on a baking pan if you don’t have a rack. Repeat with remaining tortillas, working quickly.
Assemble the enchiladas: Using a ladle, put about 1/2 cup chili in the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking pan and spread it out a little. Roll a few tablespoons of cheese into each tortilla, along with a tablespoon or so of chili, then place it seam-side down in the pan, nestling each one against the last. Ladle remaining chili over top of rolled tortillas and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Transfer to oven and bake until sauce bubbles and cheese is melted, about 10 to 15 minutes. Sprinkle chopped onions over the top, if using, and serve immediately.
WARM MOLE BEAN DIP
Yield: Makes 8 servings.
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/706.shtml
Ingredients
1 Tbsp. tomato paste
1 small tomato, seeded and chopped
1/2 cup mild, medium or hot chunky salsa
2 Tbsp. chopped cilantro
1/2 tsp. salt, or to taste
3/4 cup (3 ounces), shredded, reduced-fat Jack cheese
One (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
2 tsp. canola oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Coat a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray and set aside.
In a food processor, whirl beans until pureed but still slightly lumpy. Scoop beans into a mixing bowl and set aside.
In medium skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Saute onion and jalapeno until onion is soft, 5 minutes.
Add chili powder, cocoa, cumin, and oregano, and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 1 minute. Mix in tomato paste and cook for 30 seconds. Add contents of the pan to the pureed beans.
Add tomato, salsa, cilantro and salt, to beans and mix to combine all ingredients. Spread bean mixture in an even layer in the prepared pan. Sprinkle cheese over the top.
Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly and beans are heated through, 12 to 15 minutes. Serve immediately, accompanied by a bowl of baked tortilla chips.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 100; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 3.5 g; Sodium: 370 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g
CHICKEN ENCHILADAS WITH SALSA VERDE
This also comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. For this one, Sam wrote, “Don’t let the one-hour prep time on these enchiladas scare you. Use some leftover roast chicken, or buy a roast chicken at the market on the way home, and you’ll save at least 20 minutes, making the dish a terrific weeknight feed, alongside a green salad. (At El Real Tex-Mex restaurant, in Houston, the great Tex-Mex scholar and restaurateur Robb Walsh serves his version with lightly smoked chicken, which if you can find or make is superb.) The salsa verde is dead simple to make and the rest is assembly — a task that grows markedly easier each time you do it.” Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 1 hour.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Chicken (or use 1 1/4 pounds leftover or store-bought roast chicken):
2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs or breasts, or a mixture
1 small white onion, cut in half
4 cloves of garlic
1 tablespoon kosher salt
For the Salsa Verde:
1 pound fresh tomatillos, husked, rinsed and cut into quarters (use canned if you can't find fresh)
1 small white onion, peeled and chopped
1 clove of garlic, peeled and chopped
2 serrano chiles or more to taste, seeds removed if you want it less spicy, stemmed and roughly chopped
4 to 5 tender stems of fresh cilantro, with leaves, roughly chopped
Salt to taste
For the Enchiladas:
1/2 cup neutral oil, like canola
12 yellow corn tortillas
1 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
1 cup Mexican crema, or use crème fraîche or sour cream
1 medium-size white onion, peeled and chopped (optional)
Preparation
Prepare the chicken: Place chicken parts in a large saucepan with onion, garlic and salt, and cover with water. Heat pan over high heat until liquid comes to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and let simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove chicken and let cool, reserving stock for another use. Using your fingers or two forks, shred meat from chicken and reserve, discarding skin and bones. (Alternatively, shred meat from leftover or store-bought roast chicken and set aside.)
Meanwhile, heat oven to 375, and make the salsa verde: Combine tomatillos, onion, garlic, serranos and cilantro in a blender or food processor and purée until smooth, adding water as needed to thin it out a little. Season with salt to taste.
Prepare the tortillas: In medium sauté pan set over medium-high heat, heat oil until it begins to shimmer. Using tongs or a wide spatula, place a tortilla in the hot fat; it should start to bubble immediately. Heat tortilla for about 10 seconds a side, until soft and lightly browned. Remove tortilla and set on a rack set over a baking pan, or just on a baking pan if you don’t have a rack. Repeat with remaining tortillas, working quickly.
Assemble the enchiladas: Use a ladle to put about 1/2 cup salsa verde in the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking pan and spread it out a little. Roll a few tablespoons of shredded chicken into each tortilla with a teaspoon or so of salsa verde and place it seam-side down in the pan, nestling each one against the last. Ladle salsa verde over top of rolled tortillas and sprinkle with about half the crumbled cheese.
Transfer to oven and bake until sauce bubbles and cheese is melted, about 15 minutes. Dot with crema, sprinkle with remaining cheese and, if using, chopped onion, then serve immediately.
FREEZER CHICKEN ENCHILADAS
This recipe is from Chungah on her wonderful cooking site, Damn Delicious®. I love looking through her site, and I’m sure you will, too. Go ahead and check it out; I’ll wait.
This recipe begins, “Simply assemble your enchiladas ahead of time and freeze. IT GOES STRAIGHT FROM FREEZER TO OVEN! No dishes required!”
Yield: 4 servings; Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes
To view this online on Damn Delicious, go to http://damndelicious.net/2017/08/27/freezer-chicken-enchiladas/.
Ingredients:
2 cups leftover diced rotisserie chicken
2 1/2 cups enchilada sauce, divided
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
12 (6-inch) flour tortillas, warmed
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
In a large bowl, combine chicken, 1/2 cup enchilada sauce, 1/2 cup cheese, sour cream, cilantro and diced green chiles.
To assemble the enchiladas, lay tortilla on a flat surface and spoon 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll the tortilla and set aside, seam side down. Repeat with remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
Pour 1/4 cup enchilada sauce onto the bottom of 4 5″ foil disposable aluminum pans. Add 3 enchiladas per pan; top with remaining enchilada sauce and cheese.*
Place into oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly.
Serve immediately.
*MAKE-AHEAD: Cover enchiladas tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate up to 24 hours. To bake, remove plastic wrap, cover and bake for 25-30 minutes.
*TO FREEZE: Cover enchiladas tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 3 months. To bake, remove plastic wrap, cover and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover; bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until completely cooked through.
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.
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
Showing posts with label Apple-Chicken Quesadillas. Show all posts
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Thursday, September 7, 2017
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Chicken!
Besides being Diabetic Thursday, it's also Double-Post Thursday. Today's double-post has six chicken recipes to get you through the day, including Chicken With Crispy Panko Coating and Apple-Chicken Quesadillas. Enjoy!
4-STEP CHICKEN MARENGO
This is from Melissa d’Arabian of The Food Network’s Ten Dollar Dinners.
Total:35 min; Active: 20 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/melissa-darabian/4-step-chicken-marengo-recipe.
Ingredients
3 large chicken cutlets, sliced into thin paillards (slice while partially frozen)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium sweet onion, sliced
1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and julienned
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup beef broth
One 14-ounce can chopped tomatoes
1/2 tablespoon butter
Directions
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, to taste, and lightly dredge in flour. In a large saute pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Brown on both sides, until nicely golden, about 3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate. In the same pan, add more oil, if needed, along with the onion, mushrooms and peppers and saute until softened and fragrant, but not limp, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in the tomato paste and cook a few minutes to cook out the raw flavor. Turn up the heat, and add the wine/wine to deglaze the pan and let it reduce for 2 or 3 minutes. Add the beef broth and tomatoes. Once the mixture begins to bubble, add the browned paillards and any juices from the chicken and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is warmed through, about 3 minutes. Turn the heat off and stir in the butter. Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately.
CHICKEN WITH CRISPY PANKO COATING
This comes from Diana Rattray, Southern food expert for The Spruce. Diana wrote, “Mayonnaise and honey mustard help flavor this easy crispy baked chicken.”
Serves 4 to 6 in 55 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2/3 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup Dijon honey mustard blend
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon or thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
6 boneless chicken breast halves
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup fine dried bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
Dash pepper
Dash paprika, optional
Directions
Heat oven to 400 F.
Line a baking pan with foil and lightly grease the foil or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Combine the mayonnaise, honey mustard, tarragon or thyme, and parsley. Spread over the chicken to coat thoroughly.
Combine the bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl or pie plate.
Press the chicken breasts in the bread crumb mixture, turning to coat thoroughly. Arrange chicken on the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25 minutes; turn and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes longer, or until cooked through.
CHICKEN SOUP WITH LIME AND CILANTRO
Yield: 5 cups
Serving size: 1 cup
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=687
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/687.shtml
Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Ingredients
1 quart Homemade Chicken Broth or canned reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 whole chicken breast, skinned, boned, and split, or 2 skinless, boneless breast halves (about 3/4 pound)
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 cup coarsely cilantro leaves
Directions
Bring the broth to a simmer in a large saucepan.
Add the chicken; cover and simmer over low heat until it is just cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Remove and shred the chicken. Return it to the broth; add the lime juice and bring the soup to a boil.
Ladle into soup bowls; sprinkle with cilantro.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 102; Protein: 18 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 126 mg; Cholesterol: 41 mg; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g; Exchanges: 2 Lean Meat
CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
Is it a chicken dish? Spaghetti? Both! This yummy recipes is from Ree Drummond of The Food Network’s The Pioneer Woman, and begins, “With spaghetti and mushroom sauce, and light and dark meat chicken with bell peppers, Ree Drummond's casserole is like two meals in one. Cooking the spaghetti in the same liquid as the chicken infuses it with flavor, and the Cheddar thickens the sauce so it coats each piece of meat.”
Total: 1 hr 40 min; Active: 20 min; Yield: 8 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/chicken-spaghetti-recipe.
Ingredients
1 whole raw chicken, cut into 8 pieces
1 pound thin spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces
2 1/2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar
1/4 cup finely diced green bell pepper
1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Two 10 3/4-ounce cans cream of mushroom soup
1 medium onion, finely diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chicken pieces to the boiling water and boil for a few minutes, then return the heat to medium-low and simmer, 30 to 45 minutes.
Remove the chicken and 2 cups of the chicken cooking broth from the pot. When the chicken is cool, remove the skin and pick out the meat (a mix of dark and white) to make 2 generous cups.
Cook the spaghetti in the same chicken cooking broth until al dente. Do not overcook. When the spaghetti is cooked, combine with the chicken, mushroom soup, 1 1/2 cups cheese, the green peppers, red peppers, onions, seasoned salt, cayenne, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of the reserved chicken cooking broth, adding an additional cup if needed.
Place the mixture in a casserole pan and top with the remaining 1 cup cheese. Cover and freeze up to 6 months, cover and refrigerate up to 2 days or bake immediately until bubbly, about 45 minutes. (If the cheese on top starts to get too cooked, cover with foil).
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
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.
4-STEP CHICKEN MARENGO
This is from Melissa d’Arabian of The Food Network’s Ten Dollar Dinners.
Total:35 min; Active: 20 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/melissa-darabian/4-step-chicken-marengo-recipe.
Ingredients
3 large chicken cutlets, sliced into thin paillards (slice while partially frozen)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium sweet onion, sliced
1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and julienned
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup beef broth
One 14-ounce can chopped tomatoes
1/2 tablespoon butter
Directions
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, to taste, and lightly dredge in flour. In a large saute pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Brown on both sides, until nicely golden, about 3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate. In the same pan, add more oil, if needed, along with the onion, mushrooms and peppers and saute until softened and fragrant, but not limp, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in the tomato paste and cook a few minutes to cook out the raw flavor. Turn up the heat, and add the wine/wine to deglaze the pan and let it reduce for 2 or 3 minutes. Add the beef broth and tomatoes. Once the mixture begins to bubble, add the browned paillards and any juices from the chicken and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is warmed through, about 3 minutes. Turn the heat off and stir in the butter. Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately.
CHICKEN WITH CRISPY PANKO COATING
This comes from Diana Rattray, Southern food expert for The Spruce. Diana wrote, “Mayonnaise and honey mustard help flavor this easy crispy baked chicken.”
Serves 4 to 6 in 55 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2/3 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup Dijon honey mustard blend
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon or thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
6 boneless chicken breast halves
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup fine dried bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
Dash pepper
Dash paprika, optional
Directions
Heat oven to 400 F.
Line a baking pan with foil and lightly grease the foil or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Combine the mayonnaise, honey mustard, tarragon or thyme, and parsley. Spread over the chicken to coat thoroughly.
Combine the bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl or pie plate.
Press the chicken breasts in the bread crumb mixture, turning to coat thoroughly. Arrange chicken on the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25 minutes; turn and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes longer, or until cooked through.
CHICKEN SOUP WITH LIME AND CILANTRO
Yield: 5 cups
Serving size: 1 cup
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=687
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/687.shtml
Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes
Ingredients
1 quart Homemade Chicken Broth or canned reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 whole chicken breast, skinned, boned, and split, or 2 skinless, boneless breast halves (about 3/4 pound)
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 cup coarsely cilantro leaves
Directions
Bring the broth to a simmer in a large saucepan.
Add the chicken; cover and simmer over low heat until it is just cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Remove and shred the chicken. Return it to the broth; add the lime juice and bring the soup to a boil.
Ladle into soup bowls; sprinkle with cilantro.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 102; Protein: 18 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 126 mg; Cholesterol: 41 mg; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g; Exchanges: 2 Lean Meat
CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
Is it a chicken dish? Spaghetti? Both! This yummy recipes is from Ree Drummond of The Food Network’s The Pioneer Woman, and begins, “With spaghetti and mushroom sauce, and light and dark meat chicken with bell peppers, Ree Drummond's casserole is like two meals in one. Cooking the spaghetti in the same liquid as the chicken infuses it with flavor, and the Cheddar thickens the sauce so it coats each piece of meat.”
Total: 1 hr 40 min; Active: 20 min; Yield: 8 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/chicken-spaghetti-recipe.
Ingredients
1 whole raw chicken, cut into 8 pieces
1 pound thin spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces
2 1/2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar
1/4 cup finely diced green bell pepper
1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Two 10 3/4-ounce cans cream of mushroom soup
1 medium onion, finely diced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chicken pieces to the boiling water and boil for a few minutes, then return the heat to medium-low and simmer, 30 to 45 minutes.
Remove the chicken and 2 cups of the chicken cooking broth from the pot. When the chicken is cool, remove the skin and pick out the meat (a mix of dark and white) to make 2 generous cups.
Cook the spaghetti in the same chicken cooking broth until al dente. Do not overcook. When the spaghetti is cooked, combine with the chicken, mushroom soup, 1 1/2 cups cheese, the green peppers, red peppers, onions, seasoned salt, cayenne, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of the reserved chicken cooking broth, adding an additional cup if needed.
Place the mixture in a casserole pan and top with the remaining 1 cup cheese. Cover and freeze up to 6 months, cover and refrigerate up to 2 days or bake immediately until bubbly, about 45 minutes. (If the cheese on top starts to get too cooked, cover with foil).
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
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.
Monday, May 22, 2017
Double-Post Monday - Mexican Recipes
Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Here are six recipes to help you through the day, including Tex-Mex Rice and Bean Casserole and Stuffed Piñata Cake. Enjoy!
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
TEX-MEX RICE AND BEAN CASSEROLE
This is from Weight Watchers. Total Time: 55 minutes; Prep: 15 minutes; Cook: 40 minutes; Serves: 6; Difficulty: Easy; Points: 5
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 spray(s) cooking spray
1 cup(s) canned yellow corn, drained, or frozen, thawed corn kernels
1 Tbsp canned green chili peppers, chopped, mild or hot
15 oz canned pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup(s) long grain cooked brown rice, fresh or day old
7/8 cup(s) Weight Watchers Reduced fat Mexican blend shredded cheese
3/4 cup(s) fat free sour cream
1/4 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
2 Tbsp uncooked scallion(s), chopped (dark green part only)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat a 2-quart glass baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine corn, chilies, beans, rice, 3/4 cup of cheese, sour cream, chili powder, salt and pepper; stir in scallions.
Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons of cheese. Return to oven and bake until cheese melts and casserole is slightly bubbly, about 10 minutes more. Let stand for 5 minutes to firm up before slicing into 6 pieces. Yields 1 piece per serving.
Notes
Change the beans or cheese to your liking: white or black beans, reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack cheeses all work well.If you want to brown the cheese more, place the dish (make sure it's broiler safe) under the broiler for a minute or two.
AVOCADO AND MANGO SALSA
Yield: 3 cups
Servings: 12 (1/4-cup) servings.
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=703
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/703.shtml
Ingredients
1 ripe avocado, peeled and diced
1 cup chopped ripe mango
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1/2 cup chopped jicama
Juice of 1 lime (2 tablespoons)
Salt and ground pepper
1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
Directions
In a mixing bowl, combine the avocado, mango, jalapeno pepper, jicama, and lime juice.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Mix in the cilantro.
Let the salsa sit 20 minutes for flavors to meld before serving.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 35; Protein: 0.5 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 0.5 mg; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat
STUFFED PINATA CAKE
This is from The Food Network, and begins, “Your guests will certainly be delighted by the sight of this bright cake. But make sure they don't put their cameras away too soon: once you cut into it, a candy surprise comes spilling out!”
Total: 3 hours 15 minutes; Active: 1 hour 5 minutes; Yield: 8 to 10; Level: Intermediate
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/stuffed-pinata-cake.
Ingredients
Frosting:
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Pinch fine salt
6 large egg whites
4 sticks (1 pound) unsalted butter, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks, at room temperature
5 cups sweetened shredded coconut
Filling and Decoration:
Blue, orange, yellow, purple and pink food coloring
2 cups of your favorite small and soft candies (none in wrappers), such as gummies or candy-covered chocolates
Cake:
12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more for greasing the pans
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
3 large eggs plus 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups sugar
DirectionsFor the cake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and line the bottom of each with parchment.
Whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk the milk, vanilla, eggs and egg yolk together in another medium bowl. Beat the butter and sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium high until light and fluffy. Add about a third of the flour mixture and beat on medium low until incorporated. Now add a third of the egg-milk mixture and continue to beat on medium low until incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Repeat with the remaining flour and egg-milk mixtures, finishing with the flour.
Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake until the cake bounces back when pressed and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 35 to 40 minutes. Let cool completely in the cake pans on a rack.
For the frosting: Bring a few inches of water to a boil in a saucepan that can hold a heatproof stand mixer's bowl above the water.
Add the sugar, lemon juice, salt and egg whites to the mixer bowl and whisk together by hand. Set the bowl above the boiling water and whisk until the mixture is warm to the touch and the sugar completely dissolves. Transfer to the stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment and beat at medium-high speed until cool and the whites hold stiff peaks, 10 to 15 minutes.
Toss in a couple of chunks of butter at a time, making sure the pieces are incorporated before adding more. After all the butter is added, continue beating on medium-high speed. The mixture will deflate and appear curdled. Continue beating until the frosting comes back together to a smooth and spreadable consistency. (If the frosting is very soft or begins to break, refrigerate until set but still spreadable, then beat until light before using.)
For the filling and decoration: Dye the coconut: Have ready 5 resealable plastic bags or plastic containers. Put 1 1/2 cups of the coconut in one container with 6 to 8 drops of blue food coloring. Put 1 cup of coconut in the second container with 5 to 6 drops of orange food coloring, 1 cup of coconut in the third with 5 to 6 drops yellow food coloring and 1 cup of coconut in the fourth with 6 to 8 drops purple food coloring. Put the remaining 1/2 cup coconut in the fifth container with 4 to 5 drops pink food coloring. Seal each container and shake vigorously until the coconut is evenly dyed. Add more food coloring 1 drop at a time as needed to get bright, vibrant colors.
Assemble the cake: Cut a 4-inch circle out of the center of each cake (reserve the small cut-out cake rounds). Put one of the cake rings on a cake stand or serving platter and frost with about 1 cup of frosting. Put the other cake ring on top and push down slightly. Fill the hole with candy. Cut one of the reserved cake rounds in half horizontally to make 2 thinner rounds. Use one to fill the hole on top of the cake. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Cut a strip of parchment about 30 inches long and 3 inches wide. Wrap this parchment around the cake like a collar, leaving 1 inch of frosting exposed around the bottom perimeter of the cake. Pack some of the blue coconut onto the exposed frosting to make your first strip of color. Lift the collar up another 1 inch and do the same with the orange coconut. Remove the collar and fill the remaining inch of frosting with the yellow coconut. For the top, make 1-inch-wide rings, starting on the outside and working your way in, with the purple, pink, blue and orange coconut until the top is completely covered. Let sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour before serving.
CHEESY CHICKEN AND SWEET POTATO ENCHILADAS
This comes from Kraft Recipes, and begins, “Get cheesy with Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Enchiladas! For hotter sweet potato enchiladas, add a minced fresh jalapeño pepper to the chicken mixture.” Prep Time: 30 min; Total Time: 50 min; Servings: 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 sweet potato (1/2 lb.), peeled, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3/4 cup BREAKSTONE'S or KNUDSEN Sour Cream
2 cans (10 oz. each) mild green enchilada sauce
2 cups shredded cooked chicken breasts
1 cup rinsed canned black beans
1-1/2 cups KRAFT Mexican Style Finely Shredded Four Cheese, divided
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
12 corn tortillas (6 inch), warmed
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Cook potatoes in boiling water 5 min. or just until tender; drain. Place in large bowl. Mix sour cream and enchilada sauce until blended.
Add 1 cup of the sour cream mixture to potatoes along with the chicken, beans, 1/2 cup cheese and 2 Tbsp. cilantro; mix lightly.
Spoon about 1/3 cup chicken mixture down center of each tortilla; roll up.
Place, seam sides down, in 13x9-inch baking dish sprayed with cooking spray; top with remaining sour cream mixture and cheese. Cover.
Bake 15 to 20 min. or until heated through. Sprinkle with remaining cilantro.
BAKING SHEET QUESADILLAS
This is from Pure Wow, and starts off, “Why make individual quesadillas when you can make one enormous one? Introducing baking sheet quesadillas, which are perfect for any gathering (or if you just want to get dinner on the table in a flash). It's the genius cooking trick you didn't even know you needed.” Makes 6 to 8 servings; start to finish: 20 minutes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature, divided
12 rectangular tortillas or wraps (available in the deli section of most grocery stores)
1/2 cup salsa
12 ounces shredded cheddar or Jack cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
3 tablespoons sliced green onions
Sour cream, as needed for serving
Salsa, as needed for serving
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Grease a baking sheet with 2 tablespoons of the butter.
Arrange half of the tortillas in the prepared pan, overlapping them as needed to fully cover the base.
Spread the salsa in an even layer on top of the tortillas. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the salsa.
Arrange the remaining tortillas on top of the cheese, overlapping as needed to fully cover the pan. Spread the remaining 2 tablespoons butter evenly over the tortillas.
Bake until the tortillas are golden and the cheese is fully melted, 9 to 12 minutes. Garnish with the cilantro and green onions.
Serve immediately, warm, with sour cream and salsa on the side.
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
TEX-MEX RICE AND BEAN CASSEROLE
This is from Weight Watchers. Total Time: 55 minutes; Prep: 15 minutes; Cook: 40 minutes; Serves: 6; Difficulty: Easy; Points: 5
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 spray(s) cooking spray
1 cup(s) canned yellow corn, drained, or frozen, thawed corn kernels
1 Tbsp canned green chili peppers, chopped, mild or hot
15 oz canned pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup(s) long grain cooked brown rice, fresh or day old
7/8 cup(s) Weight Watchers Reduced fat Mexican blend shredded cheese
3/4 cup(s) fat free sour cream
1/4 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
2 Tbsp uncooked scallion(s), chopped (dark green part only)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat a 2-quart glass baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine corn, chilies, beans, rice, 3/4 cup of cheese, sour cream, chili powder, salt and pepper; stir in scallions.
Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons of cheese. Return to oven and bake until cheese melts and casserole is slightly bubbly, about 10 minutes more. Let stand for 5 minutes to firm up before slicing into 6 pieces. Yields 1 piece per serving.
Notes
Change the beans or cheese to your liking: white or black beans, reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack cheeses all work well.If you want to brown the cheese more, place the dish (make sure it's broiler safe) under the broiler for a minute or two.
AVOCADO AND MANGO SALSA
Yield: 3 cups
Servings: 12 (1/4-cup) servings.
Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=703
View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/703.shtml
Ingredients
1 ripe avocado, peeled and diced
1 cup chopped ripe mango
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1/2 cup chopped jicama
Juice of 1 lime (2 tablespoons)
Salt and ground pepper
1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
Directions
In a mixing bowl, combine the avocado, mango, jalapeno pepper, jicama, and lime juice.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Mix in the cilantro.
Let the salsa sit 20 minutes for flavors to meld before serving.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 35; Protein: 0.5 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 0.5 mg; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat
STUFFED PINATA CAKE
This is from The Food Network, and begins, “Your guests will certainly be delighted by the sight of this bright cake. But make sure they don't put their cameras away too soon: once you cut into it, a candy surprise comes spilling out!”
Total: 3 hours 15 minutes; Active: 1 hour 5 minutes; Yield: 8 to 10; Level: Intermediate
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/stuffed-pinata-cake.
Ingredients
Frosting:
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Pinch fine salt
6 large egg whites
4 sticks (1 pound) unsalted butter, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks, at room temperature
5 cups sweetened shredded coconut
Filling and Decoration:
Blue, orange, yellow, purple and pink food coloring
2 cups of your favorite small and soft candies (none in wrappers), such as gummies or candy-covered chocolates
Cake:
12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more for greasing the pans
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
3 large eggs plus 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups sugar
DirectionsFor the cake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and line the bottom of each with parchment.
Whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk the milk, vanilla, eggs and egg yolk together in another medium bowl. Beat the butter and sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium high until light and fluffy. Add about a third of the flour mixture and beat on medium low until incorporated. Now add a third of the egg-milk mixture and continue to beat on medium low until incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Repeat with the remaining flour and egg-milk mixtures, finishing with the flour.
Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake until the cake bounces back when pressed and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 35 to 40 minutes. Let cool completely in the cake pans on a rack.
For the frosting: Bring a few inches of water to a boil in a saucepan that can hold a heatproof stand mixer's bowl above the water.
Add the sugar, lemon juice, salt and egg whites to the mixer bowl and whisk together by hand. Set the bowl above the boiling water and whisk until the mixture is warm to the touch and the sugar completely dissolves. Transfer to the stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment and beat at medium-high speed until cool and the whites hold stiff peaks, 10 to 15 minutes.
Toss in a couple of chunks of butter at a time, making sure the pieces are incorporated before adding more. After all the butter is added, continue beating on medium-high speed. The mixture will deflate and appear curdled. Continue beating until the frosting comes back together to a smooth and spreadable consistency. (If the frosting is very soft or begins to break, refrigerate until set but still spreadable, then beat until light before using.)
For the filling and decoration: Dye the coconut: Have ready 5 resealable plastic bags or plastic containers. Put 1 1/2 cups of the coconut in one container with 6 to 8 drops of blue food coloring. Put 1 cup of coconut in the second container with 5 to 6 drops of orange food coloring, 1 cup of coconut in the third with 5 to 6 drops yellow food coloring and 1 cup of coconut in the fourth with 6 to 8 drops purple food coloring. Put the remaining 1/2 cup coconut in the fifth container with 4 to 5 drops pink food coloring. Seal each container and shake vigorously until the coconut is evenly dyed. Add more food coloring 1 drop at a time as needed to get bright, vibrant colors.
Assemble the cake: Cut a 4-inch circle out of the center of each cake (reserve the small cut-out cake rounds). Put one of the cake rings on a cake stand or serving platter and frost with about 1 cup of frosting. Put the other cake ring on top and push down slightly. Fill the hole with candy. Cut one of the reserved cake rounds in half horizontally to make 2 thinner rounds. Use one to fill the hole on top of the cake. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Cut a strip of parchment about 30 inches long and 3 inches wide. Wrap this parchment around the cake like a collar, leaving 1 inch of frosting exposed around the bottom perimeter of the cake. Pack some of the blue coconut onto the exposed frosting to make your first strip of color. Lift the collar up another 1 inch and do the same with the orange coconut. Remove the collar and fill the remaining inch of frosting with the yellow coconut. For the top, make 1-inch-wide rings, starting on the outside and working your way in, with the purple, pink, blue and orange coconut until the top is completely covered. Let sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour before serving.
CHEESY CHICKEN AND SWEET POTATO ENCHILADAS
This comes from Kraft Recipes, and begins, “Get cheesy with Cheesy Chicken and Sweet Potato Enchiladas! For hotter sweet potato enchiladas, add a minced fresh jalapeño pepper to the chicken mixture.” Prep Time: 30 min; Total Time: 50 min; Servings: 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 sweet potato (1/2 lb.), peeled, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3/4 cup BREAKSTONE'S or KNUDSEN Sour Cream
2 cans (10 oz. each) mild green enchilada sauce
2 cups shredded cooked chicken breasts
1 cup rinsed canned black beans
1-1/2 cups KRAFT Mexican Style Finely Shredded Four Cheese, divided
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
12 corn tortillas (6 inch), warmed
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Cook potatoes in boiling water 5 min. or just until tender; drain. Place in large bowl. Mix sour cream and enchilada sauce until blended.
Add 1 cup of the sour cream mixture to potatoes along with the chicken, beans, 1/2 cup cheese and 2 Tbsp. cilantro; mix lightly.
Spoon about 1/3 cup chicken mixture down center of each tortilla; roll up.
Place, seam sides down, in 13x9-inch baking dish sprayed with cooking spray; top with remaining sour cream mixture and cheese. Cover.
Bake 15 to 20 min. or until heated through. Sprinkle with remaining cilantro.
BAKING SHEET QUESADILLAS
This is from Pure Wow, and starts off, “Why make individual quesadillas when you can make one enormous one? Introducing baking sheet quesadillas, which are perfect for any gathering (or if you just want to get dinner on the table in a flash). It's the genius cooking trick you didn't even know you needed.” Makes 6 to 8 servings; start to finish: 20 minutes
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature, divided
12 rectangular tortillas or wraps (available in the deli section of most grocery stores)
1/2 cup salsa
12 ounces shredded cheddar or Jack cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
3 tablespoons sliced green onions
Sour cream, as needed for serving
Salsa, as needed for serving
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Grease a baking sheet with 2 tablespoons of the butter.
Arrange half of the tortillas in the prepared pan, overlapping them as needed to fully cover the base.
Spread the salsa in an even layer on top of the tortillas. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the salsa.
Arrange the remaining tortillas on top of the cheese, overlapping as needed to fully cover the pan. Spread the remaining 2 tablespoons butter evenly over the tortillas.
Bake until the tortillas are golden and the cheese is fully melted, 9 to 12 minutes. Garnish with the cilantro and green onions.
Serve immediately, warm, with sour cream and salsa on the side.
Friday, May 12, 2017
Friday Recipes
It's Friday, time to get ready for the weekend. Here are six recipes to help you through the weekend, including Apple-Chicken Quesadillas and Frozen Blueberry Lemonade Pie. Enjoy!
BLACKBERRY CHEESECAKE SQUARES
This is from Ree Drummond of The Food Network’s The Pioneer Woman.
Total:4 hr 5 min; Active: 30 min; Yield: 15 squares; Level: Easy
Ingredients
Crust:
Cooking spray, for spraying foil
One 11-ounce box vanilla wafers
1/2 cup pecans
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
Filling:
Three 8-ounce packages cream cheese
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
4 eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
Topping:
4 cups blackberries
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
For the crust: Line a 9-by-13-inch rectangular baking pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.
Place the vanilla wafers and pecans into the bowl of a food processor and pulse until the mixture becomes crumbs. Add the melted butter and pulse again until combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press the crumbs into the bottom of the pan. (If they come up the sides, that's okay!)
For the filling: Beat the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla together in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Add the sour cream and mix again.
Pour the filling into the crust, smooth the top and bake for 50 minutes. Turn off the oven, open the oven door and allow the pan to sit in the open oven for 15 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool.
For the topping: Add the blackberries, sugar and 1/4 cup water to a saucepan or skillet. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the juices thicken slightly, 4 to 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, make a slurry by stirring together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water until smooth. Add the slurry to the berries, return to the boil and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and cool the mixture.
Pour the blackberries over the cheesecake and place the pan into the fridge to cool and set for at least 2 hours (several hours is better).
When ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the pan by lifting the edges of the foil. Slice into 15 pieces with a long serrated knife.
ONE-POT MAC ’N’ CHEESE
This is from The Food Network, and begins, “This one-pot wonder has humble beginnings: just milk and macaroni. As the pasta cooks, the starch released helps thicken the milk to make the perfect base for a sauce. The cheeses and seasonings are stirred in at the very end, and everything comes together magically.”
Total: 20 min; Active: 10 min; Yield: 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/one-pot-mac-n-cheese.
Ingredients
4 cups whole milk
3/4 pound elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
8 ounces mild Cheddar, shredded (about 3 cups)
3 ounces part-skim mozzarella, shredded (about 1 cup)
2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Large pinch cayenne pepper
Large pinch freshly grated nutmeg
Kosher salt
Directions
Put the milk and macaroni in a medium saucepan. Bring the milk to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to keep the macaroni from clumping, then cook, stirring frequently, until the macaroni is tender and the milk has thickened to the consistency of heavy cream, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat, add the Cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, butter, mustard, cayenne, nutmeg and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and stir until smooth, thick and creamy. Serve hot. (The dish will thicken as it cools; thin it out with a little hot water if desired.)
Cook's Note
Be sure to buy blocks of cheese and shred it yourself. The pre-shredded cheese that comes in bags is often tossed with starchy cellulose, which can give this mac 'n' cheese a clumpy texture.
CHICKEN WITH CRISPY PANKO COATING
This comes from Diana Rattray, Southern food expert for The Spruce. Diana wrote, “Mayonnaise and honey mustard help flavor this easy crispy baked chicken.”
Serves 4 to 6 in 55 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2/3 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup Dijon honey mustard blend
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon or thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
6 boneless chicken breast halves
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup fine dried bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
Dash pepper
Dash paprika, optional
Directions
Heat oven to 400 F.
Line a baking pan with foil and lightly grease the foil or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Combine the mayonnaise, honey mustard, tarragon or thyme, and parsley. Spread over the chicken to coat thoroughly.
Combine the bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl or pie plate.
Press the chicken breasts in the bread crumb mixture, turning to coat thoroughly. Arrange chicken on the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25 minutes; turn and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes longer, or until cooked through.
LASAGNA VERDE
This yummy recipe is from FamilyTime, and begins, “There is not a more delicious way to get your veggies – and a healthy dose of protein – than with this easy Lasagna Verde recipe.”
Serves: 8; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes. Source: Pasta Fits
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
4 oz. lasagna noodles (about 8 sheets or enough for 2 layers)
2 tsp. olive oil
2 lbs. spinach, well-washed
32 oz. part-skim ricotta
2 eggs
1 Tbsp./1/2 oz. garlic, grated or finely chopped
1 tsp. lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
1/4 tsp. grated nutmeg
2 cups/10 oz. frozen peas
2 cups/8 oz. asparagus, cut in 1/2” pieces
1/2 cup/2 oz. grated Parmigiano
8 oz. mozzarella, grated, divided
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain, toss with olive oil, and reserve.
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Place the spinach in a large pan over medium heat. If spinach is still wet, simply cover pan and wilt. If it’s dry, add 1/4 cup water to the pan, cover, and wilt. Drain spinach. When cool enough to handle, roughly chop it and squeeze out excess liquid.
Place spinach in a large bowl with the ricotta, eggs, garlic, zest, nutmeg, peas, asparagus, Parmigiano and half of the mozzarella. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place half the noodles along the bottom of a 9” x 13” pan. Top with half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat with remaining noodles and ricotta mixture.
Strew remaining mozzarella over the top. Place in the oven and cook until heated through (about 30 minutes).
FROZEN BLUEBERRY LEMONADE PIE
This comes from Diana Rattray, About.com's Southern Food expert. Diana wrote, “Blueberries give this frozen lemonade pie extra color and flavor, and it is a fabulous pie for a hot summer day. The pie takes just a few minutes to mix - just freeze and eat!” Prep Time: 6 minutes; Cook Time: 0 minutes; Total Time: 6 minutes; Yield: 8 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (6 ounces) frozen lemonade
1 tub (8 ounces) whipped topping, regular or "lite," thawed in the refrigerator
1 deep dish graham cracker pie crust, homemade or purchased
Preparation
Put the blueberries, sweetened condensed milk, and frozen lemonade in a blender container. Blend until well mixed.
Pour into a bowl and fold in the whipped topping until well blended.
Spoon into the prepared crust.
Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours.
If frozen solid, take it out of the freezer 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
Note: I used a "2 extra servings" deep dish ready crust for the pie. A smaller pie shell will leave you with extra filling.
Just freeze any excess in small ramekins or 4-ounce canning jars and serve as a frozen pudding.
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
BLACKBERRY CHEESECAKE SQUARES
This is from Ree Drummond of The Food Network’s The Pioneer Woman.
Total:4 hr 5 min; Active: 30 min; Yield: 15 squares; Level: Easy
Ingredients
Crust:
Cooking spray, for spraying foil
One 11-ounce box vanilla wafers
1/2 cup pecans
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
Filling:
Three 8-ounce packages cream cheese
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
4 eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
Topping:
4 cups blackberries
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
For the crust: Line a 9-by-13-inch rectangular baking pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.
Place the vanilla wafers and pecans into the bowl of a food processor and pulse until the mixture becomes crumbs. Add the melted butter and pulse again until combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press the crumbs into the bottom of the pan. (If they come up the sides, that's okay!)
For the filling: Beat the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla together in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Add the sour cream and mix again.
Pour the filling into the crust, smooth the top and bake for 50 minutes. Turn off the oven, open the oven door and allow the pan to sit in the open oven for 15 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool.
For the topping: Add the blackberries, sugar and 1/4 cup water to a saucepan or skillet. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the juices thicken slightly, 4 to 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, make a slurry by stirring together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water until smooth. Add the slurry to the berries, return to the boil and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and cool the mixture.
Pour the blackberries over the cheesecake and place the pan into the fridge to cool and set for at least 2 hours (several hours is better).
When ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the pan by lifting the edges of the foil. Slice into 15 pieces with a long serrated knife.
ONE-POT MAC ’N’ CHEESE
This is from The Food Network, and begins, “This one-pot wonder has humble beginnings: just milk and macaroni. As the pasta cooks, the starch released helps thicken the milk to make the perfect base for a sauce. The cheeses and seasonings are stirred in at the very end, and everything comes together magically.”
Total: 20 min; Active: 10 min; Yield: 6 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/one-pot-mac-n-cheese.
Ingredients
4 cups whole milk
3/4 pound elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
8 ounces mild Cheddar, shredded (about 3 cups)
3 ounces part-skim mozzarella, shredded (about 1 cup)
2 ounces cream cheese, cut into small pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Large pinch cayenne pepper
Large pinch freshly grated nutmeg
Kosher salt
Directions
Put the milk and macaroni in a medium saucepan. Bring the milk to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to keep the macaroni from clumping, then cook, stirring frequently, until the macaroni is tender and the milk has thickened to the consistency of heavy cream, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat, add the Cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, butter, mustard, cayenne, nutmeg and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and stir until smooth, thick and creamy. Serve hot. (The dish will thicken as it cools; thin it out with a little hot water if desired.)
Cook's Note
Be sure to buy blocks of cheese and shred it yourself. The pre-shredded cheese that comes in bags is often tossed with starchy cellulose, which can give this mac 'n' cheese a clumpy texture.
CHICKEN WITH CRISPY PANKO COATING
This comes from Diana Rattray, Southern food expert for The Spruce. Diana wrote, “Mayonnaise and honey mustard help flavor this easy crispy baked chicken.”
Serves 4 to 6 in 55 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2/3 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup Dijon honey mustard blend
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon or thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
6 boneless chicken breast halves
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup fine dried bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
Dash pepper
Dash paprika, optional
Directions
Heat oven to 400 F.
Line a baking pan with foil and lightly grease the foil or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Combine the mayonnaise, honey mustard, tarragon or thyme, and parsley. Spread over the chicken to coat thoroughly.
Combine the bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl or pie plate.
Press the chicken breasts in the bread crumb mixture, turning to coat thoroughly. Arrange chicken on the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25 minutes; turn and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes longer, or until cooked through.
LASAGNA VERDE
This yummy recipe is from FamilyTime, and begins, “There is not a more delicious way to get your veggies – and a healthy dose of protein – than with this easy Lasagna Verde recipe.”
Serves: 8; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes. Source: Pasta Fits
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
4 oz. lasagna noodles (about 8 sheets or enough for 2 layers)
2 tsp. olive oil
2 lbs. spinach, well-washed
32 oz. part-skim ricotta
2 eggs
1 Tbsp./1/2 oz. garlic, grated or finely chopped
1 tsp. lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
1/4 tsp. grated nutmeg
2 cups/10 oz. frozen peas
2 cups/8 oz. asparagus, cut in 1/2” pieces
1/2 cup/2 oz. grated Parmigiano
8 oz. mozzarella, grated, divided
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain, toss with olive oil, and reserve.
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Place the spinach in a large pan over medium heat. If spinach is still wet, simply cover pan and wilt. If it’s dry, add 1/4 cup water to the pan, cover, and wilt. Drain spinach. When cool enough to handle, roughly chop it and squeeze out excess liquid.
Place spinach in a large bowl with the ricotta, eggs, garlic, zest, nutmeg, peas, asparagus, Parmigiano and half of the mozzarella. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place half the noodles along the bottom of a 9” x 13” pan. Top with half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat with remaining noodles and ricotta mixture.
Strew remaining mozzarella over the top. Place in the oven and cook until heated through (about 30 minutes).
FROZEN BLUEBERRY LEMONADE PIE
This comes from Diana Rattray, About.com's Southern Food expert. Diana wrote, “Blueberries give this frozen lemonade pie extra color and flavor, and it is a fabulous pie for a hot summer day. The pie takes just a few minutes to mix - just freeze and eat!” Prep Time: 6 minutes; Cook Time: 0 minutes; Total Time: 6 minutes; Yield: 8 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (6 ounces) frozen lemonade
1 tub (8 ounces) whipped topping, regular or "lite," thawed in the refrigerator
1 deep dish graham cracker pie crust, homemade or purchased
Preparation
Put the blueberries, sweetened condensed milk, and frozen lemonade in a blender container. Blend until well mixed.
Pour into a bowl and fold in the whipped topping until well blended.
Spoon into the prepared crust.
Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours.
If frozen solid, take it out of the freezer 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
Note: I used a "2 extra servings" deep dish ready crust for the pie. A smaller pie shell will leave you with extra filling.
Just freeze any excess in small ramekins or 4-ounce canning jars and serve as a frozen pudding.
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
Monday, May 8, 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 Katharine Hepburn's Brownies (do I have your attention?) and Apple-Chicken Quesadillas. Enjoy!
4-STEP CHICKEN MARENGO
This is from Melissa d’Arabian of The Food Network’s Ten Dollar Dinners.
Total:35 min; Active: 20 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/melissa-darabian/4-step-chicken-marengo-recipe.
Ingredients
3 large chicken cutlets, sliced into thin paillards (slice while partially frozen)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium sweet onion, sliced
1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and julienned
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup beef broth
One 14-ounce can chopped tomatoes
1/2 tablespoon butter
Directions
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, to taste, and lightly dredge in flour. In a large saute pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Brown on both sides, until nicely golden, about 3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate. In the same pan, add more oil, if needed, along with the onion, mushrooms and peppers and saute until softened and fragrant, but not limp, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in the tomato paste and cook a few minutes to cook out the raw flavor. Turn up the heat, and add the wine/wine to deglaze the pan and let it reduce for 2 or 3 minutes. Add the beef broth and tomatoes. Once the mixture begins to bubble, add the browned paillards and any juices from the chicken and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is warmed through, about 3 minutes. Turn the heat off and stir in the butter. Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately.
SUPER EASY VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN CHILI
This comes from Jolinda Hackett, vegetarian expert for The Spruce. Jolinda wrote, “Even though this easy homemade vegetarian chili recipe uses canned ingredients, a generous amount of spices are simmered to give it a homemade taste. Vegetarian chili is great to serve for large groups or to bring to potlucks, and this super easy chili recipe won't disappoint.
“This recipe is both vegetarian and vegan, and, it can easily be made gluten-free by using water in place of the vegetable broth. Or, make your own homemade vegetable broth, or just shop around to find a gluten-free vegetable broth (several brands are available). Similarly, if you're adding in the optional TVP, check the ingredients to make sure yours is gluten-free if needed. Bob's Red Mill Brand TVP is gluten-free, but you may want to double-check the ingredients list for hidden additives if you're using another brand.”
Makes 6 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 can black or pinto beans, drained
1 can kidney beans, drained
1 can diced tomatoes
1/2 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup vegetable broth
2 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
dash cayenne pepper (optional)
dash red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup TVP + 1/2 cup water (optional)
Directions
In a medium to large soup pot, sautee the onion, bell pepper and garlic in the olive oil.
Add tomatoes, vegetable broth and chili powder and stir.
Reduce heat to medium low and add beans. Stir occasionally and cook for at least 20 minutes. Add TVP and water 10 minutes before done cooking. Of course, the longer you cook chili the better, but if you're pressed for time, 20 minutes is fine.
For a spicier chili, add extra cayenne and red pepper flakes, if you'd like.
Nutrition Facts (from Calorie Count):
One serving of this vegetarian chili (based on six servings) provides approximately:
Calories: 334, Calories from Fat: 54, Total Fat: 6.0g, 9%, Saturated Fat: 0.9g, 4%, Cholesterol: 0mg, 0%, Sodium: 260mg, 11%, Total Carbohydrates: 55.4g, 18%, Dietary Fiber: 15.5g, 62%, Sugars: 5.9g, Protein: 18.7g, Vitamin A 49%, Vitamin C 107%, Calcium 11%, Iron 35%, Based on a 2000 calorie diet
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.
RAINBOW SOUP
This comes from Laura Dolson, Low Carb diet expert for VeryWell. Laura wrote, “Rainbow soup is a great way to follow so many nutritionists' advice to ‘eat a rainbow.’ In fact, that's what makes rainbow soup unique. While it is generally hard to eat all of the colors of fruits and vegetables at one meal, rainbow soup makes it possible. This is one of those soups that people tend to love, despite the unusual seasoning combination. I often put leftover turkey or chicken in it, but it can stand on its own without meat. It is also good with beans or chickpeas if your diet allows. The idea is that it has vegetables from all the ‘color groups,’ so it has lots of antioxidants and other nutrients for your family. If you have any fresh herbs around, feel free to throw them in as well.”
Total Time 45 min; Prep 10 min, Cook 35 min; Yield 9 cups of soup
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 medium onion (2 1/2 inches in diameter), chopped
2 large stalks celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, pressed
1 medium red bell pepper
1 cup chopped carrot (you can use chopped pumpkin, if available)
1 heaping tbsp. sweet paprika
3 tsp. turmeric
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 bay leaf
A little hot sauce
1 15 oz. can tomatoes, chopped
1 large leaf of chard, about 1 and 1/2 cups – can use spinach or other dark leafy green such as kale – cut into thin strips
10 oz. frozen green beans (or fresh)
Salt and pepper
5 cups stock or broth (I like vegetable or chicken better than bouillon—but watch the saltiness)
Preparation
In a large soup pot, simmer oil, onion, and celery. Cook on low heat for 5 to 10 minutes to develop more sweetness in the onion.
Add garlic and turn up the heat to medium. Cook for a minute or so and add the peppers and carrots. Cook another minute or two and add the spices. Stir and cook until fragrant—another minute or so.
Add tomatoes and stock, and simmer for 15 minutes. Add frozen beans and chard and simmer for another 5 minutes or until the beans are cooked.
If adding cooked cubed meat such as chicken or turkey, add at this time.
Adjust seasonings as needed.
Serving Suggestions for Rainbow Soup
As a main course, this soup is perfect, but be sure that you add other items for adults to eat before they get to the main dish, so that they won't be over or underfed. A nice starter salad with a vinaigrette dressing is appetizing before soup. You might also try adding meat to the soup as an option for those who are not vegetarian. To cook a great seafood option to accompany the soup, you could make chicken, fish, beef or sausage kabobs and place them on separate plates for those who are interested in making the meal a little more hearty.
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
PEANUT BUTTER BARS WITH SALTED CHOCOLATE GANACHE
This is from Nancy Fuller of The Food Network’s Farmhouse Rules.
Total: 1 hr 10 min; Active: 25 min; Yield: 8 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/nancy-fuller/peanut-butter-bars-with-salted-chocolate-ganache.
Ingredients
Nonstick cooking spray, for baking dish
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup creamy peanut butter
Kosher salt
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
8 ounces semisweet baking chocolate, chopped into small pieces
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, optional
Directions
Coat the bottom and sides of an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
In a large bowl, stir to combine the confectioners' sugar, graham cracker crumbs, peanut butter, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish and set aside.
Place the chocolate and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until bubbles start to form around the edges. Pour the cream over the chocolate, let sit for 1 minute and then whisk until completely melted and smooth.
Pour the ganache over the peanut butter mixture and refrigerate until the chocolate is cooled and set, at least 45 minutes and up to overnight.
Sprinkle evenly with the flaky sea salt. Cut into squares to serve.
4-STEP CHICKEN MARENGO
This is from Melissa d’Arabian of The Food Network’s Ten Dollar Dinners.
Total:35 min; Active: 20 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/melissa-darabian/4-step-chicken-marengo-recipe.
Ingredients
3 large chicken cutlets, sliced into thin paillards (slice while partially frozen)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium sweet onion, sliced
1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and julienned
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup beef broth
One 14-ounce can chopped tomatoes
1/2 tablespoon butter
Directions
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, to taste, and lightly dredge in flour. In a large saute pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Brown on both sides, until nicely golden, about 3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate. In the same pan, add more oil, if needed, along with the onion, mushrooms and peppers and saute until softened and fragrant, but not limp, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in the tomato paste and cook a few minutes to cook out the raw flavor. Turn up the heat, and add the wine/wine to deglaze the pan and let it reduce for 2 or 3 minutes. Add the beef broth and tomatoes. Once the mixture begins to bubble, add the browned paillards and any juices from the chicken and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is warmed through, about 3 minutes. Turn the heat off and stir in the butter. Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately.
SUPER EASY VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN CHILI
This comes from Jolinda Hackett, vegetarian expert for The Spruce. Jolinda wrote, “Even though this easy homemade vegetarian chili recipe uses canned ingredients, a generous amount of spices are simmered to give it a homemade taste. Vegetarian chili is great to serve for large groups or to bring to potlucks, and this super easy chili recipe won't disappoint.
“This recipe is both vegetarian and vegan, and, it can easily be made gluten-free by using water in place of the vegetable broth. Or, make your own homemade vegetable broth, or just shop around to find a gluten-free vegetable broth (several brands are available). Similarly, if you're adding in the optional TVP, check the ingredients to make sure yours is gluten-free if needed. Bob's Red Mill Brand TVP is gluten-free, but you may want to double-check the ingredients list for hidden additives if you're using another brand.”
Makes 6 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 can black or pinto beans, drained
1 can kidney beans, drained
1 can diced tomatoes
1/2 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup vegetable broth
2 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
dash cayenne pepper (optional)
dash red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup TVP + 1/2 cup water (optional)
Directions
In a medium to large soup pot, sautee the onion, bell pepper and garlic in the olive oil.
Add tomatoes, vegetable broth and chili powder and stir.
Reduce heat to medium low and add beans. Stir occasionally and cook for at least 20 minutes. Add TVP and water 10 minutes before done cooking. Of course, the longer you cook chili the better, but if you're pressed for time, 20 minutes is fine.
For a spicier chili, add extra cayenne and red pepper flakes, if you'd like.
Nutrition Facts (from Calorie Count):
One serving of this vegetarian chili (based on six servings) provides approximately:
Calories: 334, Calories from Fat: 54, Total Fat: 6.0g, 9%, Saturated Fat: 0.9g, 4%, Cholesterol: 0mg, 0%, Sodium: 260mg, 11%, Total Carbohydrates: 55.4g, 18%, Dietary Fiber: 15.5g, 62%, Sugars: 5.9g, Protein: 18.7g, Vitamin A 49%, Vitamin C 107%, Calcium 11%, Iron 35%, Based on a 2000 calorie diet
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.
RAINBOW SOUP
This comes from Laura Dolson, Low Carb diet expert for VeryWell. Laura wrote, “Rainbow soup is a great way to follow so many nutritionists' advice to ‘eat a rainbow.’ In fact, that's what makes rainbow soup unique. While it is generally hard to eat all of the colors of fruits and vegetables at one meal, rainbow soup makes it possible. This is one of those soups that people tend to love, despite the unusual seasoning combination. I often put leftover turkey or chicken in it, but it can stand on its own without meat. It is also good with beans or chickpeas if your diet allows. The idea is that it has vegetables from all the ‘color groups,’ so it has lots of antioxidants and other nutrients for your family. If you have any fresh herbs around, feel free to throw them in as well.”
Total Time 45 min; Prep 10 min, Cook 35 min; Yield 9 cups of soup
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 medium onion (2 1/2 inches in diameter), chopped
2 large stalks celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, pressed
1 medium red bell pepper
1 cup chopped carrot (you can use chopped pumpkin, if available)
1 heaping tbsp. sweet paprika
3 tsp. turmeric
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 bay leaf
A little hot sauce
1 15 oz. can tomatoes, chopped
1 large leaf of chard, about 1 and 1/2 cups – can use spinach or other dark leafy green such as kale – cut into thin strips
10 oz. frozen green beans (or fresh)
Salt and pepper
5 cups stock or broth (I like vegetable or chicken better than bouillon—but watch the saltiness)
Preparation
In a large soup pot, simmer oil, onion, and celery. Cook on low heat for 5 to 10 minutes to develop more sweetness in the onion.
Add garlic and turn up the heat to medium. Cook for a minute or so and add the peppers and carrots. Cook another minute or two and add the spices. Stir and cook until fragrant—another minute or so.
Add tomatoes and stock, and simmer for 15 minutes. Add frozen beans and chard and simmer for another 5 minutes or until the beans are cooked.
If adding cooked cubed meat such as chicken or turkey, add at this time.
Adjust seasonings as needed.
Serving Suggestions for Rainbow Soup
As a main course, this soup is perfect, but be sure that you add other items for adults to eat before they get to the main dish, so that they won't be over or underfed. A nice starter salad with a vinaigrette dressing is appetizing before soup. You might also try adding meat to the soup as an option for those who are not vegetarian. To cook a great seafood option to accompany the soup, you could make chicken, fish, beef or sausage kabobs and place them on separate plates for those who are interested in making the meal a little more hearty.
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
PEANUT BUTTER BARS WITH SALTED CHOCOLATE GANACHE
This is from Nancy Fuller of The Food Network’s Farmhouse Rules.
Total: 1 hr 10 min; Active: 25 min; Yield: 8 servings; Level: Easy
To view this online, go to http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/nancy-fuller/peanut-butter-bars-with-salted-chocolate-ganache.
Ingredients
Nonstick cooking spray, for baking dish
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup creamy peanut butter
Kosher salt
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
8 ounces semisweet baking chocolate, chopped into small pieces
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, optional
Directions
Coat the bottom and sides of an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
In a large bowl, stir to combine the confectioners' sugar, graham cracker crumbs, peanut butter, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish and set aside.
Place the chocolate and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until bubbles start to form around the edges. Pour the cream over the chocolate, let sit for 1 minute and then whisk until completely melted and smooth.
Pour the ganache over the peanut butter mixture and refrigerate until the chocolate is cooled and set, at least 45 minutes and up to overnight.
Sprinkle evenly with the flaky sea salt. Cut into squares to serve.
Friday, May 5, 2017
Cinco de Mayo - Mexican Recipes
Happy Cinco de Mayo! Here are six Mexican recipes to help you through the day, including Quinoa Enchilada Bake and Siri's One-Pot Mexican Pasta. Enjoy!
CHICKEN ENCHILADAS
This comes from Food.com, and begins, “I call this gloppy and sloppy and definitely my family's favorite.” Makes 6 servings; Prep Time: 40 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr. 20 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
3 cups diced cooked chicken
1 (4 ounce) can mushrooms, drained and chopped
1⁄2 onion, chopped
1 (4 ounce) can green chilies, drained
1⁄4 teaspoon oregano
salt and pepper
10 -12 flour tortillas
Topping
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1⁄4 cup milk
1 lb shredded monterey jack cheese or 1 lb monterey jack pepper cheese
Directions
Mix together first 7 ingredients.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Place 2 – 3 tablespoons of filling in center of each tortilla; roll mixture up in tortilla.
With seam side down, place each rolled tortilla side by side in a 13x9 inch casserole dish Mix together first 2 topping ingredients.
Pour evenly over enchiladas in casserole dish.
Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 – 40 minutes.
SIRI’S ONE-POT MEXICAN PASTA
This comes from Siri Daly in a recent TODAY Show Recipes email. It begins, “Give the dish some color and style it your way with a variety of toppings like chopped avocado, thinly sliced scallions and spicy jalapeños.” Makes 6 – 8 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
1/2 package store-bought taco seasoning
12 ounces frozen squash, thawed
8 ounces pasta
2 cups chicken stock
8 ounces store-bought jarred taco sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, plus more for serving
Chopped avocado, scallions and jalapeños, for serving (optional)
Preparation
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground turkey and cook until no longer pink.
Add the taco seasoning and squash, and cook for a few more minutes, until everything is combined.
Add the pasta, chicken stock and taco sauce and bring to a boil.
Stir everything up, cover the pot, lower to a simmer and cook for another 10 minutes.
Uncover, add the cheese, and simmer until the cheese has melted and sauce has thickened. Add a little more cheese on the top before serving, plus your favorite garnishes like chopped avocado, scallions and jalapeños.
CORN AND BLACK BEAN TAQUITOS
This begins, “Minimum prep and bake time makes homemade taquitos a healthy "fast food" for busy days. Couple with a side salad for a balanced meal.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Can be viewed at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/7259-corn-and-black-bean-taquitos
Ingredients
8 low carb tortillas
15 oz. black beans, drained
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup frozen corn
1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
3 TBSP salsa
2 TBSP lime juice
1/2 tsp cumin
Pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Slightly mash beans with a fork. Add all ingredients together and mix well.
Spoon 3 – 4 TBSP of mixture into the center of each tortilla. Tightly roll and place on greased baking sheet. Spray the taquitos with olive oil or coconut oil cooking spray.
Bake 15-20 minutes or until taquitos are lightly brown and crisp.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 8; For 1 taquito: Calories 102; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 242 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Protein: 7 g
QUINOA ENCHILADA BAKE
This recipe begins, “Never tried quinoa? This enchilada bake is a great way to be introduced to the superfood.”
http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/7286-quinoa-enchilada-bake
Ingredients
1 TBSP olive oil
1 lb extra lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 medium green pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic finely chopped
1/2 cup dry quinoa
2 cups low sodium vegetable broth
10 oz. can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 cup tomato sauce
2 TBSP chili powder
2 tsp cumin
Pepper to taste
1 can black beans
3/4 cup corn
Optional toppings:
Cheese, tomato, green onion, cilantro
Directions
Heat oil in a large skillet. Brown ground beef.
Add onion, pepper and garlic. Cook 2 minutes.
Pour into slow cooker along with remaining ingredients, except black beans and corn.
Cook on high for 3-31/2 hours.
40 minutes before it's done, add beans and corn. Heat last 40 minutes.
Serve over chopped romaine or tortilla (optional).
Top with desired toppings.
Nutritional Facts: Servings 12; For 1/12 the recipe excluding optional toppings: Calories 170; Saturated Fat 2 g; Sodium 242 mg; Carbohydrates 15 g; Dietary Fiber 2 g; Protein 12 g
TEX-MEX RICE AND BEAN CASSEROLE
This is from Weight Watchers. Total Time: 55 minutes; Prep: 15 minutes; Cook: 40 minutes; Serves: 6; Difficulty: Easy; Points: 5
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 spray(s) cooking spray
1 cup(s) canned yellow corn, drained, or frozen, thawed corn kernels
1 Tbsp canned green chili peppers, chopped, mild or hot
15 oz canned pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup(s) long grain cooked brown rice, fresh or day old
7/8 cup(s) Weight Watchers Reduced fat Mexican blend shredded cheese
3/4 cup(s) fat free sour cream
1/4 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
2 Tbsp uncooked scallion(s), chopped (dark green part only)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat a 2-quart glass baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine corn, chilies, beans, rice, 3/4 cup of cheese, sour cream, chili powder, salt and pepper; stir in scallions.
Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons of cheese. Return to oven and bake until cheese melts and casserole is slightly bubbly, about 10 minutes more. Let stand for 5 minutes to firm up before slicing into 6 pieces. Yields 1 piece per serving.
Notes
Change the beans or cheese to your liking: white or black beans, reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack cheeses all work well.If you want to brown the cheese more, place the dish (make sure it's broiler safe) under the broiler for a minute or two.
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
CHICKEN ENCHILADAS
This comes from Food.com, and begins, “I call this gloppy and sloppy and definitely my family's favorite.” Makes 6 servings; Prep Time: 40 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 1 hr. 20 minutes.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
3 cups diced cooked chicken
1 (4 ounce) can mushrooms, drained and chopped
1⁄2 onion, chopped
1 (4 ounce) can green chilies, drained
1⁄4 teaspoon oregano
salt and pepper
10 -12 flour tortillas
Topping
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1⁄4 cup milk
1 lb shredded monterey jack cheese or 1 lb monterey jack pepper cheese
Directions
Mix together first 7 ingredients.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Place 2 – 3 tablespoons of filling in center of each tortilla; roll mixture up in tortilla.
With seam side down, place each rolled tortilla side by side in a 13x9 inch casserole dish Mix together first 2 topping ingredients.
Pour evenly over enchiladas in casserole dish.
Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 – 40 minutes.
SIRI’S ONE-POT MEXICAN PASTA
This comes from Siri Daly in a recent TODAY Show Recipes email. It begins, “Give the dish some color and style it your way with a variety of toppings like chopped avocado, thinly sliced scallions and spicy jalapeños.” Makes 6 – 8 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
1/2 package store-bought taco seasoning
12 ounces frozen squash, thawed
8 ounces pasta
2 cups chicken stock
8 ounces store-bought jarred taco sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, plus more for serving
Chopped avocado, scallions and jalapeños, for serving (optional)
Preparation
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground turkey and cook until no longer pink.
Add the taco seasoning and squash, and cook for a few more minutes, until everything is combined.
Add the pasta, chicken stock and taco sauce and bring to a boil.
Stir everything up, cover the pot, lower to a simmer and cook for another 10 minutes.
Uncover, add the cheese, and simmer until the cheese has melted and sauce has thickened. Add a little more cheese on the top before serving, plus your favorite garnishes like chopped avocado, scallions and jalapeños.
CORN AND BLACK BEAN TAQUITOS
This begins, “Minimum prep and bake time makes homemade taquitos a healthy "fast food" for busy days. Couple with a side salad for a balanced meal.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Can be viewed at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/7259-corn-and-black-bean-taquitos
Ingredients
8 low carb tortillas
15 oz. black beans, drained
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup frozen corn
1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
3 TBSP salsa
2 TBSP lime juice
1/2 tsp cumin
Pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Slightly mash beans with a fork. Add all ingredients together and mix well.
Spoon 3 – 4 TBSP of mixture into the center of each tortilla. Tightly roll and place on greased baking sheet. Spray the taquitos with olive oil or coconut oil cooking spray.
Bake 15-20 minutes or until taquitos are lightly brown and crisp.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 8; For 1 taquito: Calories 102; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 242 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Protein: 7 g
QUINOA ENCHILADA BAKE
This recipe begins, “Never tried quinoa? This enchilada bake is a great way to be introduced to the superfood.”
http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/7286-quinoa-enchilada-bake
Ingredients
1 TBSP olive oil
1 lb extra lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 medium green pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic finely chopped
1/2 cup dry quinoa
2 cups low sodium vegetable broth
10 oz. can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 cup tomato sauce
2 TBSP chili powder
2 tsp cumin
Pepper to taste
1 can black beans
3/4 cup corn
Optional toppings:
Cheese, tomato, green onion, cilantro
Directions
Heat oil in a large skillet. Brown ground beef.
Add onion, pepper and garlic. Cook 2 minutes.
Pour into slow cooker along with remaining ingredients, except black beans and corn.
Cook on high for 3-31/2 hours.
40 minutes before it's done, add beans and corn. Heat last 40 minutes.
Serve over chopped romaine or tortilla (optional).
Top with desired toppings.
Nutritional Facts: Servings 12; For 1/12 the recipe excluding optional toppings: Calories 170; Saturated Fat 2 g; Sodium 242 mg; Carbohydrates 15 g; Dietary Fiber 2 g; Protein 12 g
TEX-MEX RICE AND BEAN CASSEROLE
This is from Weight Watchers. Total Time: 55 minutes; Prep: 15 minutes; Cook: 40 minutes; Serves: 6; Difficulty: Easy; Points: 5
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 spray(s) cooking spray
1 cup(s) canned yellow corn, drained, or frozen, thawed corn kernels
1 Tbsp canned green chili peppers, chopped, mild or hot
15 oz canned pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup(s) long grain cooked brown rice, fresh or day old
7/8 cup(s) Weight Watchers Reduced fat Mexican blend shredded cheese
3/4 cup(s) fat free sour cream
1/4 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
2 Tbsp uncooked scallion(s), chopped (dark green part only)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat a 2-quart glass baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine corn, chilies, beans, rice, 3/4 cup of cheese, sour cream, chili powder, salt and pepper; stir in scallions.
Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons of cheese. Return to oven and bake until cheese melts and casserole is slightly bubbly, about 10 minutes more. Let stand for 5 minutes to firm up before slicing into 6 pieces. Yields 1 piece per serving.
Notes
Change the beans or cheese to your liking: white or black beans, reduced-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack cheeses all work well.If you want to brown the cheese more, place the dish (make sure it's broiler safe) under the broiler for a minute or two.
APPLE-CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
This recipe begins, “You may be surprised at the idea of combining chicken and apples inside a crispy tortilla, but the taste will amaze you.”
This is from Diabetic Connect.
Click here to view this online.
Ingredients
2 medium tart apples, sliced
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped onion
6 low-carb tortillas, fajita-sized, warmed
3/4 cup shredded lettuce
3/4 cup salsa
6 tablespoons sour cream
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. Place about 3/4 cup on half of each tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling and secure with toothpicks.
Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Carefully turn quesadillas over; bake 5-8 minutes longer or until golden brown. Discard toothpicks. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges. Serve with lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
Nutritional Facts: Servings: 12; Calories – 121; Total Fat – 5 g; Saturated Fat – 3 g; Sodium – 196 mg; Carbohydrates – 13 g; Fiber – 2 g; Sugars – 4 g; Protein – 7 g
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