Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Sloppy Joes and California Turkey Chili. Enjoy!
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
BANANA SNACKING CAKE WITH SALTED CARAMEL GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “This buttery snacking cake is a bit like banana bread, but richer, and topped with a sticky caramel frosting that is dotted with crunchy flakes of sea salt. The frosting, made from brown sugar and heavy cream, is easier than a classic caramel, but just as compelling, with the sea salt contrasting perfectly with its sweetness. It’s important to use ripe bananas here. Soft, spotty ones with dark yellow skins will be the sweetest and most complex. Firm, pale yellow bananas just don’t have enough intensity to flavor the cake.”
For the Glaze:
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted, plus more for pan
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1 cup mashed banana (from 2 to 3 very ripe bananas)
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick), cut into pieces
1/3 packed cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
Large pinch of fine sea salt
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Flaky sea salt, for serving
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edges by at least 2 inches.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking soda and salt. Whisk in bananas, melted butter, sour cream, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla.
Scrape into baking pan and smooth the top. Bake until the top springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a medium or large pot (not a small one because the mixture will bubble up), combine butter, brown sugar, heavy cream and salt. Bring to a full boil and continue to boil over medium heat for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
Whisk in confectioners’ sugar until smooth, then immediately pour over cooled cake. Spread evenly across cake and let set for at least 30 minutes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
VEGGIE-LOADED PASTA
This is from The Mayo Clinic Diet. Serving size: 1 1/2 cups. Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon canola oil
1/2 cup onions, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
12 ounces soy crumbles, ground
2 cans tomatoes, diced, no salt added (14.5 ounces each)
2 cups small zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ground
6 ounces whole wheat bow-tie pasta
3 tablespoon basil, fresh (or 3 teaspoons dried basil)
Instructions
Place a large saucepan over medium to high heat.
Add the oil, onion, mushrooms and garlic. Cook until the onion is tender.
Add soy crumbles, tomatoes, zucchini, Italian seasoning and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
While the mixture is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package directions.
When the pasta is finished cooking, drain well and gently mix into the vegetable sauce. Garnish with basil.
Nutritional Information: Amount per serving: Calories: 260; Total fat: 6 g; Saturated fat: 1 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Total carbohydrate: 33 g; Dietary fiber: 8 g; Protein: 17 g
TURKEY MEATLOAF
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking email. Sam wrote, “This is a recipe that helps explain the Twitter-era term ‘humblebrag.’ I made it for the celebrated writer and filmmaker Nora Ephron after a different recipe resulted in a disaster and I had to discard the result with only a few hours before my dinner with -- did I mention? -- Nora Ephron. It derives from a meatball dish once cooked by the chef Mark Ladner at the restaurant Lupa in Manhattan, and published as a recipe in Details magazine in the early years of the century. I scaled it up over the years, increasing some spices here and there, lessening others, until I had what I thought to be a pretty terrific meatloaf. But don't take my word for it. ‘This is remarkable,’ Ms. Ephron told me. I'm bragging about it still.” Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
This was featured in “Potlucky” and can be viewed online here.
Note: This recipe calls for 1 cup red wine. If, like me, you don’t keep wine or any alcohol around the house, I imagine you could replace this with 1 cup water. Yes, this will affect the taste a little, but it’s do-able.
Ingredients
8 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup fresh bread crumbs of any provenance
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup whole milk
1 pound ground turkey
1 pound sweet Italian pork sausage, casing removed, crumbled
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 ounces bacon, chopped
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, seeds removed
1 cup red wine
1/4 bunch mint
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Combine 2/3 of the garlic, the rosemary, pepper flakes, bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Add the milk and mix. Add the turkey and sausage and mix once more to combine; don’t overmix. Transfer onto a board and shape into a fine meatloaf, about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Place in a baking pan with high sides (a 9 x12 pan with 2-inch sides works well), drizzle with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly. Remove from the oven and reduce the heat to 325 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, fry the bacon in the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until it starts to curl and its fat is rendered. Add the onions and remaining garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes and wine and bring to a boil.
Pour the sauce over the meatloaf, cover tightly with foil and bake until a meat thermometer inserted at the center reads 150 degrees, 20 to 30 minutes.
Transfer the meatloaf to a platter and let stand, tented with foil, for 10 minutes. Cut into thick slices, spoon tomato sauce over the top and scatter with torn mint leaves.
SLOPPY JOES
This is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.
Active Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings; Level: East
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/sloppy-joes-2120434.
Ingredients
2 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 large green bell pepper, diced
1/2 large onion, diced
1 1/2 cups ketchup
5 cloves garlic, minced
Hot sauce, such as Tabasco
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
8 kaiser rolls
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons chili powder, or more as needed
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more as needed
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Chips or salad, for serving, if desired
Ingredients
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain off the fat.
Add in the green peppers and onions. Stir, and then add 1 cup water, the ketchup and garlic. Stir it around to combine, and then add the brown sugar, chili powder, dry mustard, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce, Worcestershire, salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, and then cover and simmer over medium-low heat, about 20 minutes.
To serve, spread the rolls with the butter and brown them on a griddle or in a skillet. Spoon a good amount of the meat mixture onto the bottom roll, and then top with the other half. Serve with chips, salad or just enjoy it by itself.
CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI
This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.
Ingredients
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped
2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1-1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons tomato paste
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)
One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained
Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows
Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream
Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:
1 1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)
1 3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley
1/3 cup pine nuts
Directions
Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.
To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.
Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.
Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:
Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.
Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.
Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.
Showing posts with label Budget-Friendly Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna). Show all posts
Showing posts with label Budget-Friendly Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna). Show all posts
Monday, April 10, 2023
Tuesday, March 28, 2023
Double-Post Tuesday
Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday (since not everyone loves tacos). Today's offerings include California Turkey Chili and Sloppy Joes. Enjoy!
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
BANANA SNACKING CAKE WITH SALTED CARAMEL GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “This buttery snacking cake is a bit like banana bread, but richer, and topped with a sticky caramel frosting that is dotted with crunchy flakes of sea salt. The frosting, made from brown sugar and heavy cream, is easier than a classic caramel, but just as compelling, with the sea salt contrasting perfectly with its sweetness. It’s important to use ripe bananas here. Soft, spotty ones with dark yellow skins will be the sweetest and most complex. Firm, pale yellow bananas just don’t have enough intensity to flavor the cake.”
For the Glaze:
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted, plus more for pan
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1 cup mashed banana (from 2 to 3 very ripe bananas)
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick), cut into pieces
1/3 packed cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
Large pinch of fine sea salt
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Flaky sea salt, for serving
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edges by at least 2 inches.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking soda and salt. Whisk in bananas, melted butter, sour cream, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla.
Scrape into baking pan and smooth the top. Bake until the top springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a medium or large pot (not a small one because the mixture will bubble up), combine butter, brown sugar, heavy cream and salt. Bring to a full boil and continue to boil over medium heat for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
Whisk in confectioners’ sugar until smooth, then immediately pour over cooled cake. Spread evenly across cake and let set for at least 30 minutes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
VEGGIE-LOADED PASTA
This is from The Mayo Clinic Diet. Serving size: 1 1/2 cups. Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon canola oil
1/2 cup onions, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
12 ounces soy crumbles, ground
2 cans tomatoes, diced, no salt added (14.5 ounces each)
2 cups small zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ground
6 ounces whole wheat bow-tie pasta
3 tablespoon basil, fresh (or 3 teaspoons dried basil)
Instructions
Place a large saucepan over medium to high heat.
Add the oil, onion, mushrooms and garlic. Cook until the onion is tender.
Add soy crumbles, tomatoes, zucchini, Italian seasoning and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
While the mixture is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package directions.
When the pasta is finished cooking, drain well and gently mix into the vegetable sauce. Garnish with basil.
Nutritional Information: Amount per serving: Calories: 260; Total fat: 6 g; Saturated fat: 1 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Total carbohydrate: 33 g; Dietary fiber: 8 g; Protein: 17 g
TURKEY MEATLOAF
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking email. Sam wrote, “This is a recipe that helps explain the Twitter-era term ‘humblebrag.’ I made it for the celebrated writer and filmmaker Nora Ephron after a different recipe resulted in a disaster and I had to discard the result with only a few hours before my dinner with -- did I mention? -- Nora Ephron. It derives from a meatball dish once cooked by the chef Mark Ladner at the restaurant Lupa in Manhattan, and published as a recipe in Details magazine in the early years of the century. I scaled it up over the years, increasing some spices here and there, lessening others, until I had what I thought to be a pretty terrific meatloaf. But don't take my word for it. ‘This is remarkable,’ Ms. Ephron told me. I'm bragging about it still.” Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
This was featured in “Potlucky” and can be viewed online here.
Note: This recipe calls for 1 cup red wine. If, like me, you don’t keep wine or any alcohol around the house, I imagine you could replace this with 1 cup water. Yes, this will affect the taste a little, but it’s do-able.
Ingredients
8 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup fresh bread crumbs of any provenance
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup whole milk
1 pound ground turkey
1 pound sweet Italian pork sausage, casing removed, crumbled
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 ounces bacon, chopped
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, seeds removed
1 cup red wine
1/4 bunch mint
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Combine 2/3 of the garlic, the rosemary, pepper flakes, bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Add the milk and mix. Add the turkey and sausage and mix once more to combine; don’t overmix. Transfer onto a board and shape into a fine meatloaf, about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Place in a baking pan with high sides (a 9 x12 pan with 2-inch sides works well), drizzle with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly. Remove from the oven and reduce the heat to 325 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, fry the bacon in the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until it starts to curl and its fat is rendered. Add the onions and remaining garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes and wine and bring to a boil.
Pour the sauce over the meatloaf, cover tightly with foil and bake until a meat thermometer inserted at the center reads 150 degrees, 20 to 30 minutes.
Transfer the meatloaf to a platter and let stand, tented with foil, for 10 minutes. Cut into thick slices, spoon tomato sauce over the top and scatter with torn mint leaves.
SLOPPY JOES
This is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.
Active Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings; Level: East
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/sloppy-joes-2120434.
Ingredients
2 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 large green bell pepper, diced
1/2 large onion, diced
1 1/2 cups ketchup
5 cloves garlic, minced
Hot sauce, such as Tabasco
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
8 kaiser rolls
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons chili powder, or more as needed
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more as needed
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Chips or salad, for serving, if desired
Ingredients
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain off the fat.
Add in the green peppers and onions. Stir, and then add 1 cup water, the ketchup and garlic. Stir it around to combine, and then add the brown sugar, chili powder, dry mustard, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce, Worcestershire, salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, and then cover and simmer over medium-low heat, about 20 minutes.
To serve, spread the rolls with the butter and brown them on a griddle or in a skillet. Spoon a good amount of the meat mixture onto the bottom roll, and then top with the other half. Serve with chips, salad or just enjoy it by itself.
CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI
This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.
Ingredients
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped
2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons tomato paste
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)
One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained
Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows
Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream
Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:
1 1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)
1 3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley
1/3 cup pine nuts
Directions
Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.
To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.
Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.
Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:
Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.
Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.
Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
BANANA SNACKING CAKE WITH SALTED CARAMEL GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “This buttery snacking cake is a bit like banana bread, but richer, and topped with a sticky caramel frosting that is dotted with crunchy flakes of sea salt. The frosting, made from brown sugar and heavy cream, is easier than a classic caramel, but just as compelling, with the sea salt contrasting perfectly with its sweetness. It’s important to use ripe bananas here. Soft, spotty ones with dark yellow skins will be the sweetest and most complex. Firm, pale yellow bananas just don’t have enough intensity to flavor the cake.”
For the Glaze:
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted, plus more for pan
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1 cup mashed banana (from 2 to 3 very ripe bananas)
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick), cut into pieces
1/3 packed cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
Large pinch of fine sea salt
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Flaky sea salt, for serving
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edges by at least 2 inches.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking soda and salt. Whisk in bananas, melted butter, sour cream, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla.
Scrape into baking pan and smooth the top. Bake until the top springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a medium or large pot (not a small one because the mixture will bubble up), combine butter, brown sugar, heavy cream and salt. Bring to a full boil and continue to boil over medium heat for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
Whisk in confectioners’ sugar until smooth, then immediately pour over cooled cake. Spread evenly across cake and let set for at least 30 minutes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
VEGGIE-LOADED PASTA
This is from The Mayo Clinic Diet. Serving size: 1 1/2 cups. Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon canola oil
1/2 cup onions, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
12 ounces soy crumbles, ground
2 cans tomatoes, diced, no salt added (14.5 ounces each)
2 cups small zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ground
6 ounces whole wheat bow-tie pasta
3 tablespoon basil, fresh (or 3 teaspoons dried basil)
Instructions
Place a large saucepan over medium to high heat.
Add the oil, onion, mushrooms and garlic. Cook until the onion is tender.
Add soy crumbles, tomatoes, zucchini, Italian seasoning and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
While the mixture is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package directions.
When the pasta is finished cooking, drain well and gently mix into the vegetable sauce. Garnish with basil.
Nutritional Information: Amount per serving: Calories: 260; Total fat: 6 g; Saturated fat: 1 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Total carbohydrate: 33 g; Dietary fiber: 8 g; Protein: 17 g
TURKEY MEATLOAF
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking email. Sam wrote, “This is a recipe that helps explain the Twitter-era term ‘humblebrag.’ I made it for the celebrated writer and filmmaker Nora Ephron after a different recipe resulted in a disaster and I had to discard the result with only a few hours before my dinner with -- did I mention? -- Nora Ephron. It derives from a meatball dish once cooked by the chef Mark Ladner at the restaurant Lupa in Manhattan, and published as a recipe in Details magazine in the early years of the century. I scaled it up over the years, increasing some spices here and there, lessening others, until I had what I thought to be a pretty terrific meatloaf. But don't take my word for it. ‘This is remarkable,’ Ms. Ephron told me. I'm bragging about it still.” Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
This was featured in “Potlucky” and can be viewed online here.
Note: This recipe calls for 1 cup red wine. If, like me, you don’t keep wine or any alcohol around the house, I imagine you could replace this with 1 cup water. Yes, this will affect the taste a little, but it’s do-able.
Ingredients
8 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup fresh bread crumbs of any provenance
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup whole milk
1 pound ground turkey
1 pound sweet Italian pork sausage, casing removed, crumbled
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 ounces bacon, chopped
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, seeds removed
1 cup red wine
1/4 bunch mint
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Combine 2/3 of the garlic, the rosemary, pepper flakes, bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Add the milk and mix. Add the turkey and sausage and mix once more to combine; don’t overmix. Transfer onto a board and shape into a fine meatloaf, about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Place in a baking pan with high sides (a 9 x12 pan with 2-inch sides works well), drizzle with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly. Remove from the oven and reduce the heat to 325 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, fry the bacon in the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until it starts to curl and its fat is rendered. Add the onions and remaining garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes and wine and bring to a boil.
Pour the sauce over the meatloaf, cover tightly with foil and bake until a meat thermometer inserted at the center reads 150 degrees, 20 to 30 minutes.
Transfer the meatloaf to a platter and let stand, tented with foil, for 10 minutes. Cut into thick slices, spoon tomato sauce over the top and scatter with torn mint leaves.
SLOPPY JOES
This is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.
Active Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings; Level: East
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/sloppy-joes-2120434.
Ingredients
2 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 large green bell pepper, diced
1/2 large onion, diced
1 1/2 cups ketchup
5 cloves garlic, minced
Hot sauce, such as Tabasco
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
8 kaiser rolls
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons chili powder, or more as needed
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more as needed
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Chips or salad, for serving, if desired
Ingredients
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain off the fat.
Add in the green peppers and onions. Stir, and then add 1 cup water, the ketchup and garlic. Stir it around to combine, and then add the brown sugar, chili powder, dry mustard, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce, Worcestershire, salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, and then cover and simmer over medium-low heat, about 20 minutes.
To serve, spread the rolls with the butter and brown them on a griddle or in a skillet. Spoon a good amount of the meat mixture onto the bottom roll, and then top with the other half. Serve with chips, salad or just enjoy it by itself.
CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI
This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate
To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.
Ingredients
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped
2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons tomato paste
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)
One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained
Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows
Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream
Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:
1 1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)
1 3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley
1/3 cup pine nuts
Directions
Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.
To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.
Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.
Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:
Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.
Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.
Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.
Thursday, June 11, 2020
Double-Post Thursday
If you've followed this blog for a while, you know the routine: Besides being Diabetic Thursday, it's also Double-Post Thursday. Today's offerings include Flank Steak Fajita Burritos and Crockpot Maple BBQ Chicken Sandwiches. Enjoy!
LEMON SNACKING CAKE WITH COCONUT GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “With a poundcake-like texture and zippy lemon flavor, this tender treat is loaded with grated citrus zest and topped with a sweet, mellow coconut frosting. Like many snacking cakes, it’s easily whisked together without a mixer, and quick to bake. Perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up, it goes as well with a glass of milk as it does with mugs of coffee, tea or hot cocoa.”
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola, plus more for pan
3 lemons
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 packed cup shredded sweetened coconut
For the Glaze:
3 tablespoons coconut milk
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
Pinch of fine sea salt
2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
Finely grated lemon zest, for garnish
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edge of the pan by at least 2 inches.
Grate 2 tablespoons of zest from the lemons. Juice the lemons so you have 1/4 cup juice. Add juice and zest to a medium bowl, then whisk in oil, sour cream, coconut milk and eggs.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk wet mixture into dry mixture until smooth.
Scrape batter into baking pan and spread in an even layer. Sprinkle evenly with shredded sweetened coconut. Bake until the top of the cake springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, 35 to 45 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, oil and salt. Whisk in the confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Pour over the cake, and grate some lemon zest over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE
This came from a Weight Watchers email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
Serves: 8; 5 points
Ingredients
12 oz uncooked macaroni, elbow-type
1/2 cup fat-free sour cream
12 oz fat-free evaporated milk
8 oz low-fat cheddar or Colby cheese, shredded
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
2 Tbsp dried bread crumbs
2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350ºF.
Cook pasta according to package directions without added fat or salt; drain & transfer to a large bowl. While pasta is still hot, stir in sour cream; set aside.
Heat milk in small saucepan over medium heat until tiny bubbles appear just around the edges. Reduce heat to low, add cheese & simmer until cheese melts, stirring constantly with wire whisk, about 2 minutes; remove from heat & stir in mustard, salt, pepper & nutmeg.
Add cheese mixture to pasta; mix well. Transfer to a 4-quart casserole dish. Combine bread crumbs & Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over pasta. Bake until top is golden, about 30 minutes. Yields about 1 cup per serving.
CLASSIC NACHOS
This is from Better Homes & Gardens, and begins, “These five-ingredient nachos are a cinch to make for a large crowd. Bake a batch for your next party and serve with an array of topping options, like cilantro, jalapeno peppers, sour cream and salsa.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Bake Time: 20 minutes at 350°; Servings: 8
View this online here.
Ingredients
5 cups bite-sized tortilla chips (6 ounces)
1 pound ground beef
1 15 ounce can black beans or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup bottled chunky salsa
1 1/2 – 2 cups shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or Mexican cheese blend (6 ounces)
Optional toppings (such as thinly sliced green onion, snipped fresh cilantro, seeded and sliced fresh jalapeño chile pepper, sour cream, and/or additional bottled chunky salsa)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange half of the tortilla chips on an 11- or 12-inch ovenproof platter or pizza pan; set aside.
In a large skillet cook ground beef over medium heat until brown. Drain off fat.
Stir the black beans and the 1 cup salsa into the beef. Spoon half of the mixture over chips. Sprinkle with half the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until cheese melts. Remove from oven. Top with remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese. Bake for 10 minutes more or until cheese melts.
If desired, top with green onion, cilantro, jalapeño chile pepper, sour cream, and/or additional salsa.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 368 calories, (8 g saturated fat, 3 g polyunsaturated fat, 7 g monounsaturated fat), 61 mg cholesterol, 638 mg sodium, 26 g carbohydrates, 5 g fiber, 1 g sugar, 23 g protein.
FLANK STEAK FAJITA BURRITOS
This also comes from Better Homes & Gardens, and begins, “These delicious steak burritos get a zesty marinade of lime, orange juice, and chipotle peppers. Full of fresh peppers and zucchini, this burrito recipe will quickly become a family favorite.”
Prep: 20 mins; Marinate: 1 hr to 12 hrs; Cook: 25 mins; Servings: 6; Yield: 6 burritos
View this online here.
Ingredients
1 orange
1 lime
1/4 cup plus 1 tsp. vegetable oil
2 – 3 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (seeded if desired), finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 2 pound beef flank steak, halved crosswise
1 large sweet onion, halved and thinly sliced
2 medium green, red, and/or yellow sweet peppers, cut into thin strips
1/2 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
6 10 inch flour tortillas, warmed
3/4 cup guacamole
1/4 cup snipped fresh cilantro
1 cup purchased salsa verde
Directions
Zest the lime and juice both the orange and lime. In a large resealable plastic bag combine 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 cup oil, chipotle peppers, 1 teaspoon of the cumin, and the salt. Add steak. Seal bag; turn to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator 1 to 12 hours.
Remove meat from marinade. Reserve 2 tablespoons marinade; discard any remaining marinade. Pat meat dry with paper towels. In a large grill pan, heat 1 teaspoon oil over medium-high heat. Add steak to pan. Cook for 14 to 18 minutes or until steak reaches desired doneness, turning once halfway through cooking. If needed cook in batches. (Or, for a gas or charcoal grill, grill the steak on the greased rack of a covered grill over medium heat for 17 to 21 minutes or until steak reaches desired doneness.) Transfer meat to a cutting board. Cover and let stand 10 minutes. Cut steak across grain into 1/4-inch-thick slices.
Meanwhile, heat the same grill pan* over medium-high heat. Add the onions to the drippings in the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes. Stir in the sweet peppers and zucchini. Cook 1 minute more. Add the reserved 2 tablespoons marinade and remaining 1/2 teaspoon cumin. Cook and stir 2 minutes more.
Lay tortillas on a flat work surface. Arrange meat along the bottom one-third of the tortillas. Top with cooked vegetables, guacamole, and cilantro. Fold bottoms of tortillas over filling. Fold in sides. Roll up tortillas tightly. Cut burritos in half. Serve with salsa verde.
Tips
If using a gas or charcoal grill, use a large skillet to cook the vegetables. Use 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in place of the drippings.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 620 calories, (8 g saturated fat, 6 g polyunsaturated fat, 6 g monounsaturated fat), 101 mg cholesterol, 1007 mg sodium, 48 g carbohydrates, 7 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 41 g protein.
CROCKPOT MAPLE BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICHES
This came from a Weight Watchers crockpot email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
4 servings = 225 calories, 4g fat, 1g fiber; 5 points per serving
Ingredients
1/2 C. maple flavored syrup
2 T. prepared mustard
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 t. lemon juice
1/2 t. chili powder
1/4 t. garlic powder
4 boneless, skinned chicken breasts
Directions
Place all ingredients in crockpot & cook on LOW for about 7 to 8 hours or until chicken is done.
You can either eat the breasts whole or shred them on buns or rice for more points.
LEMON SNACKING CAKE WITH COCONUT GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “With a poundcake-like texture and zippy lemon flavor, this tender treat is loaded with grated citrus zest and topped with a sweet, mellow coconut frosting. Like many snacking cakes, it’s easily whisked together without a mixer, and quick to bake. Perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up, it goes as well with a glass of milk as it does with mugs of coffee, tea or hot cocoa.”
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola, plus more for pan
3 lemons
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 packed cup shredded sweetened coconut
For the Glaze:
3 tablespoons coconut milk
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
Pinch of fine sea salt
2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
Finely grated lemon zest, for garnish
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edge of the pan by at least 2 inches.
Grate 2 tablespoons of zest from the lemons. Juice the lemons so you have 1/4 cup juice. Add juice and zest to a medium bowl, then whisk in oil, sour cream, coconut milk and eggs.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk wet mixture into dry mixture until smooth.
Scrape batter into baking pan and spread in an even layer. Sprinkle evenly with shredded sweetened coconut. Bake until the top of the cake springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, 35 to 45 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, oil and salt. Whisk in the confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Pour over the cake, and grate some lemon zest over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE
This came from a Weight Watchers email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
Serves: 8; 5 points
Ingredients
12 oz uncooked macaroni, elbow-type
1/2 cup fat-free sour cream
12 oz fat-free evaporated milk
8 oz low-fat cheddar or Colby cheese, shredded
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
2 Tbsp dried bread crumbs
2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350ºF.
Cook pasta according to package directions without added fat or salt; drain & transfer to a large bowl. While pasta is still hot, stir in sour cream; set aside.
Heat milk in small saucepan over medium heat until tiny bubbles appear just around the edges. Reduce heat to low, add cheese & simmer until cheese melts, stirring constantly with wire whisk, about 2 minutes; remove from heat & stir in mustard, salt, pepper & nutmeg.
Add cheese mixture to pasta; mix well. Transfer to a 4-quart casserole dish. Combine bread crumbs & Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over pasta. Bake until top is golden, about 30 minutes. Yields about 1 cup per serving.
CLASSIC NACHOS
This is from Better Homes & Gardens, and begins, “These five-ingredient nachos are a cinch to make for a large crowd. Bake a batch for your next party and serve with an array of topping options, like cilantro, jalapeno peppers, sour cream and salsa.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Bake Time: 20 minutes at 350°; Servings: 8
View this online here.
Ingredients
5 cups bite-sized tortilla chips (6 ounces)
1 pound ground beef
1 15 ounce can black beans or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup bottled chunky salsa
1 1/2 – 2 cups shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or Mexican cheese blend (6 ounces)
Optional toppings (such as thinly sliced green onion, snipped fresh cilantro, seeded and sliced fresh jalapeño chile pepper, sour cream, and/or additional bottled chunky salsa)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange half of the tortilla chips on an 11- or 12-inch ovenproof platter or pizza pan; set aside.
In a large skillet cook ground beef over medium heat until brown. Drain off fat.
Stir the black beans and the 1 cup salsa into the beef. Spoon half of the mixture over chips. Sprinkle with half the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until cheese melts. Remove from oven. Top with remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese. Bake for 10 minutes more or until cheese melts.
If desired, top with green onion, cilantro, jalapeño chile pepper, sour cream, and/or additional salsa.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 368 calories, (8 g saturated fat, 3 g polyunsaturated fat, 7 g monounsaturated fat), 61 mg cholesterol, 638 mg sodium, 26 g carbohydrates, 5 g fiber, 1 g sugar, 23 g protein.
FLANK STEAK FAJITA BURRITOS
This also comes from Better Homes & Gardens, and begins, “These delicious steak burritos get a zesty marinade of lime, orange juice, and chipotle peppers. Full of fresh peppers and zucchini, this burrito recipe will quickly become a family favorite.”
Prep: 20 mins; Marinate: 1 hr to 12 hrs; Cook: 25 mins; Servings: 6; Yield: 6 burritos
View this online here.
Ingredients
1 orange
1 lime
1/4 cup plus 1 tsp. vegetable oil
2 – 3 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (seeded if desired), finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 2 pound beef flank steak, halved crosswise
1 large sweet onion, halved and thinly sliced
2 medium green, red, and/or yellow sweet peppers, cut into thin strips
1/2 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
6 10 inch flour tortillas, warmed
3/4 cup guacamole
1/4 cup snipped fresh cilantro
1 cup purchased salsa verde
Directions
Zest the lime and juice both the orange and lime. In a large resealable plastic bag combine 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 cup oil, chipotle peppers, 1 teaspoon of the cumin, and the salt. Add steak. Seal bag; turn to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator 1 to 12 hours.
Remove meat from marinade. Reserve 2 tablespoons marinade; discard any remaining marinade. Pat meat dry with paper towels. In a large grill pan, heat 1 teaspoon oil over medium-high heat. Add steak to pan. Cook for 14 to 18 minutes or until steak reaches desired doneness, turning once halfway through cooking. If needed cook in batches. (Or, for a gas or charcoal grill, grill the steak on the greased rack of a covered grill over medium heat for 17 to 21 minutes or until steak reaches desired doneness.) Transfer meat to a cutting board. Cover and let stand 10 minutes. Cut steak across grain into 1/4-inch-thick slices.
Meanwhile, heat the same grill pan* over medium-high heat. Add the onions to the drippings in the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes. Stir in the sweet peppers and zucchini. Cook 1 minute more. Add the reserved 2 tablespoons marinade and remaining 1/2 teaspoon cumin. Cook and stir 2 minutes more.
Lay tortillas on a flat work surface. Arrange meat along the bottom one-third of the tortillas. Top with cooked vegetables, guacamole, and cilantro. Fold bottoms of tortillas over filling. Fold in sides. Roll up tortillas tightly. Cut burritos in half. Serve with salsa verde.
Tips
If using a gas or charcoal grill, use a large skillet to cook the vegetables. Use 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in place of the drippings.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 620 calories, (8 g saturated fat, 6 g polyunsaturated fat, 6 g monounsaturated fat), 101 mg cholesterol, 1007 mg sodium, 48 g carbohydrates, 7 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 41 g protein.
CROCKPOT MAPLE BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICHES
This came from a Weight Watchers crockpot email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
4 servings = 225 calories, 4g fat, 1g fiber; 5 points per serving
Ingredients
1/2 C. maple flavored syrup
2 T. prepared mustard
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 t. lemon juice
1/2 t. chili powder
1/4 t. garlic powder
4 boneless, skinned chicken breasts
Directions
Place all ingredients in crockpot & cook on LOW for about 7 to 8 hours or until chicken is done.
You can either eat the breasts whole or shred them on buns or rice for more points.
Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Double-Post Tuesday
Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday (since not everyone loves tacos). Today's offerings include Turkey Meatloaf and Abruzzi Fish Stew. Enjoy!
BAKED TERIYAKI CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI
This comes from Chungah Rhee, whose blog, Damn Delicious, is really fantastic. I highly recommend it.
Chungah begins this recipe by writing, “A takeout classic baked right at home with homemade teriyaki sauce – perfect over rice! Can be made ahead of time too!” Yield: 6 Servings; Prep Time: 1 hours; Cook Times: 40 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes.
To view this online, go to http://damndelicious.net/2016/05/20/baked-teriyaki-chicken-broccoli/.
Ingredients
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs* (see note)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
12 ounces broccoli florets
6 carrots, cut diagonally in 1-inch-thick slices
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1 green onion, thinly sliced
For the Teriyaki Sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 tablespoons honey
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly coat a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray.
To make the teriyaki sauce, whisk together cornstarch and 1/4 cup water in a small bowl; set aside. In a small saucepan over medium heat, add soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, honey and 1 cup water; bring to a simmer. Stir in cornstarch mixture until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 2 minutes; let cool to room temperature. Reserve 1/2 cup and set aside.
In a gallon size Ziploc bag or large bowl, combine teriyaki sauce and chicken; marinate for at least 30 minutes to overnight, turning the bag occasionally. Drain the chicken from the sauce.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken, skin-side down, and sear both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side; drain excess fat.
Place chicken, skin-side up, in a single layer into the prepared baking dish. Top with broccoli, carrots and reserved 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce.
Place into oven and roast until completely cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, about 25-30 minutes.
Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and green onion, if desired.
Note: *Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) can be substituted.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
BANANA SNACKING CAKE WITH SALTED CARAMEL GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “This buttery snacking cake is a bit like banana bread, but richer, and topped with a sticky caramel frosting that is dotted with crunchy flakes of sea salt. The frosting, made from brown sugar and heavy cream, is easier than a classic caramel, but just as compelling, with the sea salt contrasting perfectly with its sweetness. It’s important to use ripe bananas here. Soft, spotty ones with dark yellow skins will be the sweetest and most complex. Firm, pale yellow bananas just don’t have enough intensity to flavor the cake.”
For the Glaze:
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted, plus more for pan
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1 cup mashed banana (from 2 to 3 very ripe bananas)
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick), cut into pieces
1/3 packed cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
Large pinch of fine sea salt
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Flaky sea salt, for serving
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edges by at least 2 inches.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking soda and salt. Whisk in bananas, melted butter, sour cream, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla.
Scrape into baking pan and smooth the top. Bake until the top springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a medium or large pot (not a small one because the mixture will bubble up), combine butter, brown sugar, heavy cream and salt. Bring to a full boil and continue to boil over medium heat for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
Whisk in confectioners’ sugar until smooth, then immediately pour over cooled cake. Spread evenly across cake and let set for at least 30 minutes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
ABRUZZI FISH STEW
This was in the October 2016 issue Runner's World, page 45. Makes 8 servings. It is adapted from Scratch: Home Cooking for Everyone Made Simple, Fun, and Totally Delicious, by Maria Rodale. Available in October, published by Rodale, owner of Runner’s World.
This can be viewed online at http://www.runnersworld.com/recipes/have-a-pasta-party-from-scratch/.
Ingredients
2 lb. assorted fish and shellfish (such as snapper, cod, red mullet, clams, mussels, and shrimp)
4 large tomatoes, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves, plus extra for garnish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 lb. spaghetti
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut fish into 2" to 3" pieces, scrub the clams and mussels, and peel and devein the shrimp. In a heavy-bottomed 12" ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven, combine tomatoes, garlic, oil, parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and bake for 10 minutes. Season fish with salt and pepper, and gently add to tomatoes. Cover and bake for another 10 minutes or until fish is opaque. Scatter shellfish over the top, cover, and bake for another 10 minutes or until all shells have opened and shrimp is opaque.
While seafood bakes, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain. Add pasta to seafood pan and mix gently to combine. Sprinkle with parsley. Makes 8 servings.
Nutrition Information: Calories per serving: 415; Protein: 27 g; Carbs: 48 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 4 g; Total fat: 12 g; Saturated fat: 2 g; Sodium: 307 mg
VEGGIE-LOADED PASTA
This is from The Mayo Clinic Diet. Serving size: 1 1/2 cups. Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon canola oil
1/2 cup onions, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
12 ounces soy crumbles, ground
2 cans tomatoes, diced, no salt added (14.5 ounces each)
2 cups small zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ground
6 ounces whole wheat bow-tie pasta
3 tablespoon basil, fresh (or 3 teaspoons dried basil)
Instructions
Place a large saucepan over medium to high heat.
Add the oil, onion, mushrooms and garlic. Cook until the onion is tender.
Add soy crumbles, tomatoes, zucchini, Italian seasoning and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
While the mixture is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package directions.
When the pasta is finished cooking, drain well and gently mix into the vegetable sauce. Garnish with basil.
Nutritional Information: Amount per serving: Calories: 260; Total fat: 6 g; Saturated fat: 1 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Total carbohydrate: 33 g; Dietary fiber: 8 g; Protein: 17 g
TURKEY MEATLOAF
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking email. Sam wrote, “This is a recipe that helps explain the Twitter-era term ‘humblebrag.’ I made it for the celebrated writer and filmmaker Nora Ephron after a different recipe resulted in a disaster and I had to discard the result with only a few hours before my dinner with -- did I mention? -- Nora Ephron. It derives from a meatball dish once cooked by the chef Mark Ladner at the restaurant Lupa in Manhattan, and published as a recipe in Details magazine in the early years of the century. I scaled it up over the years, increasing some spices here and there, lessening others, until I had what I thought to be a pretty terrific meatloaf. But don't take my word for it. ‘This is remarkable,’ Ms. Ephron told me. I'm bragging about it still.” Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
This was featured in “Potlucky” and can be viewed online here.
Note: This recipe calls for 1 cup red wine. If, like me, you don’t keep wine or any alcohol around the house, I imagine you could replace this with 1 cup water. Yes, this will affect the taste a little, but it’s do-able.
Ingredients
8 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup fresh bread crumbs of any provenance
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup whole milk
1 pound ground turkey
1 pound sweet Italian pork sausage, casing removed, crumbled
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 ounces bacon, chopped
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, seeds removed
1 cup red wine
1/4 bunch mint
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Combine 2/3 of the garlic, the rosemary, pepper flakes, bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Add the milk and mix. Add the turkey and sausage and mix once more to combine; don’t overmix. Transfer onto a board and shape into a fine meatloaf, about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Place in a baking pan with high sides (a 9 x12 pan with 2-inch sides works well), drizzle with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly. Remove from the oven and reduce the heat to 325 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, fry the bacon in the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until it starts to curl and its fat is rendered. Add the onions and remaining garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes and wine and bring to a boil.
Pour the sauce over the meatloaf, cover tightly with foil and bake until a meat thermometer inserted at the center reads 150 degrees, 20 to 30 minutes.
Transfer the meatloaf to a platter and let stand, tented with foil, for 10 minutes. Cut into thick slices, spoon tomato sauce over the top and scatter with torn mint leaves.
BAKED TERIYAKI CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI
This comes from Chungah Rhee, whose blog, Damn Delicious, is really fantastic. I highly recommend it.
Chungah begins this recipe by writing, “A takeout classic baked right at home with homemade teriyaki sauce – perfect over rice! Can be made ahead of time too!” Yield: 6 Servings; Prep Time: 1 hours; Cook Times: 40 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes.
To view this online, go to http://damndelicious.net/2016/05/20/baked-teriyaki-chicken-broccoli/.
Ingredients
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs* (see note)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
12 ounces broccoli florets
6 carrots, cut diagonally in 1-inch-thick slices
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1 green onion, thinly sliced
For the Teriyaki Sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 tablespoons honey
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly coat a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray.
To make the teriyaki sauce, whisk together cornstarch and 1/4 cup water in a small bowl; set aside. In a small saucepan over medium heat, add soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, honey and 1 cup water; bring to a simmer. Stir in cornstarch mixture until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 2 minutes; let cool to room temperature. Reserve 1/2 cup and set aside.
In a gallon size Ziploc bag or large bowl, combine teriyaki sauce and chicken; marinate for at least 30 minutes to overnight, turning the bag occasionally. Drain the chicken from the sauce.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken, skin-side down, and sear both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side; drain excess fat.
Place chicken, skin-side up, in a single layer into the prepared baking dish. Top with broccoli, carrots and reserved 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce.
Place into oven and roast until completely cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, about 25-30 minutes.
Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and green onion, if desired.
Note: *Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) can be substituted.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
BANANA SNACKING CAKE WITH SALTED CARAMEL GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “This buttery snacking cake is a bit like banana bread, but richer, and topped with a sticky caramel frosting that is dotted with crunchy flakes of sea salt. The frosting, made from brown sugar and heavy cream, is easier than a classic caramel, but just as compelling, with the sea salt contrasting perfectly with its sweetness. It’s important to use ripe bananas here. Soft, spotty ones with dark yellow skins will be the sweetest and most complex. Firm, pale yellow bananas just don’t have enough intensity to flavor the cake.”
For the Glaze:
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted, plus more for pan
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
1 cup mashed banana (from 2 to 3 very ripe bananas)
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick), cut into pieces
1/3 packed cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
Large pinch of fine sea salt
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Flaky sea salt, for serving
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edges by at least 2 inches.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking soda and salt. Whisk in bananas, melted butter, sour cream, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla.
Scrape into baking pan and smooth the top. Bake until the top springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a medium or large pot (not a small one because the mixture will bubble up), combine butter, brown sugar, heavy cream and salt. Bring to a full boil and continue to boil over medium heat for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
Whisk in confectioners’ sugar until smooth, then immediately pour over cooled cake. Spread evenly across cake and let set for at least 30 minutes. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
ABRUZZI FISH STEW
This was in the October 2016 issue Runner's World, page 45. Makes 8 servings. It is adapted from Scratch: Home Cooking for Everyone Made Simple, Fun, and Totally Delicious, by Maria Rodale. Available in October, published by Rodale, owner of Runner’s World.
This can be viewed online at http://www.runnersworld.com/recipes/have-a-pasta-party-from-scratch/.
Ingredients
2 lb. assorted fish and shellfish (such as snapper, cod, red mullet, clams, mussels, and shrimp)
4 large tomatoes, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves, plus extra for garnish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 lb. spaghetti
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut fish into 2" to 3" pieces, scrub the clams and mussels, and peel and devein the shrimp. In a heavy-bottomed 12" ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven, combine tomatoes, garlic, oil, parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Cover with a lid and bake for 10 minutes. Season fish with salt and pepper, and gently add to tomatoes. Cover and bake for another 10 minutes or until fish is opaque. Scatter shellfish over the top, cover, and bake for another 10 minutes or until all shells have opened and shrimp is opaque.
While seafood bakes, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain. Add pasta to seafood pan and mix gently to combine. Sprinkle with parsley. Makes 8 servings.
Nutrition Information: Calories per serving: 415; Protein: 27 g; Carbs: 48 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 4 g; Total fat: 12 g; Saturated fat: 2 g; Sodium: 307 mg
VEGGIE-LOADED PASTA
This is from The Mayo Clinic Diet. Serving size: 1 1/2 cups. Serves 6.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon canola oil
1/2 cup onions, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
12 ounces soy crumbles, ground
2 cans tomatoes, diced, no salt added (14.5 ounces each)
2 cups small zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ground
6 ounces whole wheat bow-tie pasta
3 tablespoon basil, fresh (or 3 teaspoons dried basil)
Instructions
Place a large saucepan over medium to high heat.
Add the oil, onion, mushrooms and garlic. Cook until the onion is tender.
Add soy crumbles, tomatoes, zucchini, Italian seasoning and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
While the mixture is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package directions.
When the pasta is finished cooking, drain well and gently mix into the vegetable sauce. Garnish with basil.
Nutritional Information: Amount per serving: Calories: 260; Total fat: 6 g; Saturated fat: 1 g; Sodium: 300 mg; Total carbohydrate: 33 g; Dietary fiber: 8 g; Protein: 17 g
TURKEY MEATLOAF
This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking email. Sam wrote, “This is a recipe that helps explain the Twitter-era term ‘humblebrag.’ I made it for the celebrated writer and filmmaker Nora Ephron after a different recipe resulted in a disaster and I had to discard the result with only a few hours before my dinner with -- did I mention? -- Nora Ephron. It derives from a meatball dish once cooked by the chef Mark Ladner at the restaurant Lupa in Manhattan, and published as a recipe in Details magazine in the early years of the century. I scaled it up over the years, increasing some spices here and there, lessening others, until I had what I thought to be a pretty terrific meatloaf. But don't take my word for it. ‘This is remarkable,’ Ms. Ephron told me. I'm bragging about it still.” Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
This was featured in “Potlucky” and can be viewed online here.
Note: This recipe calls for 1 cup red wine. If, like me, you don’t keep wine or any alcohol around the house, I imagine you could replace this with 1 cup water. Yes, this will affect the taste a little, but it’s do-able.
Ingredients
8 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup fresh bread crumbs of any provenance
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup whole milk
1 pound ground turkey
1 pound sweet Italian pork sausage, casing removed, crumbled
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 ounces bacon, chopped
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, seeds removed
1 cup red wine
1/4 bunch mint
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Combine 2/3 of the garlic, the rosemary, pepper flakes, bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Add the milk and mix. Add the turkey and sausage and mix once more to combine; don’t overmix. Transfer onto a board and shape into a fine meatloaf, about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.
Place in a baking pan with high sides (a 9 x12 pan with 2-inch sides works well), drizzle with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly. Remove from the oven and reduce the heat to 325 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, fry the bacon in the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until it starts to curl and its fat is rendered. Add the onions and remaining garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes and wine and bring to a boil.
Pour the sauce over the meatloaf, cover tightly with foil and bake until a meat thermometer inserted at the center reads 150 degrees, 20 to 30 minutes.
Transfer the meatloaf to a platter and let stand, tented with foil, for 10 minutes. Cut into thick slices, spoon tomato sauce over the top and scatter with torn mint leaves.
Friday, August 9, 2019
Friday Recipes
Since it's Friday (yay!), today's offerings can help you through the weekend, and include Old-Fashioned Meatloaf and Crockpot Maple BBQ Chicken Sandwiches. Enjoy!
APPLE SPICE CAKE WITH VANILLA BUTTER SAUCE
This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 10 servings.
Ingredients
1 cup flour
1 tablespoon Apple Pie Spice
1 teaspoon Ground Allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
2 apples (Granny Smith or Gala), peeled and chopped (about 2 cups)
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Vanilla Butter Sauce (recipe follows)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix flour, apple pie spice, allspice and salt in small bowl; set aside.
Beat butter and sugar in large bowl with mixer on medium speed 5 minutes or until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla on low speed just until blended. Gradually beat in flour mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in apples, raisins and walnuts. Spread evenly in greased 9-inch round cake pan.
Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Invert cake onto serving plate.
Serve warm with Vanilla Butter Sauce.
Vanilla Butter Sauce:
Bring 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter and 1/2 cup heavy cream to boil in 2-quart saucepan on medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons Pure Vanilla Extract. Serve warm. Makes about 1 1/2 cups.
Test Kitchen Tip: The cake and sauce can be prepared and refrigerated separately the day before. Warm the cake in the oven and the sauce on top of the stove before serving.
OLD-FASHIONED MEATLOAF
This comes from VeryWellFit, and begins, “This lighter meatloaf recipe is similar to the one most of us enjoyed during our childhoods, but without all of the extra fat. Choose a lean ground beef or, better yet, ground turkey to cut down on the fat. And since you can't make meatloaf without breadcrumbs, why not replace the white, unrefined with whole wheat for added fiber? Also, using two egg whites in place of one whole egg will reduce the calories and fat while still helping to bind the mixture together.”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 60 minutes; Total Time: 70 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online click here.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground meat (85% to 90% lean, or ground turkey)
1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat)
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped or 1 tablespoon dehydrated onion flakes)
2 cloves garlic (minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon sage
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup water (or low-fat milk)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 F.
In a large bowl, mix together all of the ingredients. Mix well, using your hands, but don't overmix because you will toughen the meat.
Turn mixture into a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for about 1 hour.
To be sure the meatloaf is done, insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The temperature should register 155F when it is done.
About 10 to 15 minutes before you think the meatloaf will be done, you can cover it with barbecue sauce if you like.
International Meatloaf
If you are looking for a different kind of meatloaf, try kofta kebabs, a Middle Eastern grilled ground meat recipe. The spices in this meat mixture (traditionally lamb) are a delicious change of pace from the usual. If you don't have the time or inclination to place them on skewers, you can make them into oblong-oval shapes that look like sausages without the casings.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
COUSCOUS WITH MIXED VEGETABLES
This came from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
Couscous:
16 oz couscous
2 cups water
2 teaspoons oil or margarine
Salt & pepper
Aromatic broth:
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup golden raisins
2 Tablespoons turmeric
1 Tablespoon sugar
1 Tablespoon coriander, ground
1 Tablespoon cumin
1 cinnamon stick
1 cup water
Salt & pepper to taste
Vegetables:
1/2 zucchini
1/2 yellow squash
1 turnip
1 carrot
1/8 cabbage
Directions
Boil water with salt, pepper & oil. Mix in couscous & place plastic wrap on top. Let steam for 15 minutes. Sauté onion. Add raisins, turmeric, coriander, cumin & cinnamon stick & 6 cups of water. Boil for 25 minutes, then strain. Cook zucchini, yellow squash, turnip, carrot, & cabbage in broth & set aside until ready to use.
CROCKPOT MAPLE BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICHES
This came from a Weight Watchers crockpot email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
4 servings = 225 calories, 4g fat, 1g fiber; 5 points per serving
Ingredients
1/2 C. maple flavored syrup
2 T. prepared mustard
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 t. lemon juice
1/2 t. chili powder
1/4 t. garlic powder
4 boneless, skinned chicken breasts
Directions
Place all ingredients in crockpot & cook on LOW for about 7 to 8 hours or until chicken is done.
You can either eat the breasts whole or shred them on buns or rice for more points.
SUMMER MINISTRONE SOUP
This comes from tbsp.com, and begins, “Minestrone soup, swimming with beans and macaroni, is vegetable soup’s heartier Italian cousin. Preparing it in advance and having at the ready in your freezer will have you singing ‘That’s Amore’ when dinnertime comes around.”
Prep Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1 can (14.5 oz) Muir Glen™ organic diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup Progresso™ cannellini beans, drained, rinsed (from 15-oz can)
1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh or frozen cut (1/2-inch) green beans
1/2 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
1 carton (32 oz) Progresso™ broth vegetable
Shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired
Directions
In 4-quart saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add the onion and salt; cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add garlic, thyme and oregano; cook 2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, cannellini beans, zucchini, carrot, green beans and macaroni.
Add stock; heat to simmering over medium-high heat. Cook 6 to 8 minutes or until macaroni is al dente. Top with Parmesan cheese.
To freeze: In 8-inch skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and salt; cook about 4 minutes or until softened. Add garlic, thyme and oregano; cook 2 minutes. Transfer to medium bowl. Stir in tomatoes and cannellini beans. Transfer to 1-quart resealable freezer plastic bag. Mix zucchini, carrot, green beans and macaroni in another 1-quart resealable freezer plastic bag. Freeze both bags up to 3 months. When ready to serve: In 4-quart saucepan, mix broth and bag of frozen tomato-bean mixture; heat to simmering over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium; cook until frozen tomato-bean mixture is completely thawed, stirring occasionally. Add bag of vegetables and macaroni; return to simmering. Cook 6 to 8 minutes or until macaroni is al dente. Top with Parmesan cheese.
Expert Tips
Lots of fun small pasta shapes are on your grocery store shelves. Try ditalini, orzo or small shells for a change of pace from elbow macaroni.
Canned chickpeas are a good substitute for the cannellini beans in this soup.
APPLE SPICE CAKE WITH VANILLA BUTTER SAUCE
This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 10 servings.
Ingredients
1 cup flour
1 tablespoon Apple Pie Spice
1 teaspoon Ground Allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
2 apples (Granny Smith or Gala), peeled and chopped (about 2 cups)
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Vanilla Butter Sauce (recipe follows)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix flour, apple pie spice, allspice and salt in small bowl; set aside.
Beat butter and sugar in large bowl with mixer on medium speed 5 minutes or until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla on low speed just until blended. Gradually beat in flour mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in apples, raisins and walnuts. Spread evenly in greased 9-inch round cake pan.
Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Invert cake onto serving plate.
Serve warm with Vanilla Butter Sauce.
Vanilla Butter Sauce:
Bring 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter and 1/2 cup heavy cream to boil in 2-quart saucepan on medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons Pure Vanilla Extract. Serve warm. Makes about 1 1/2 cups.
Test Kitchen Tip: The cake and sauce can be prepared and refrigerated separately the day before. Warm the cake in the oven and the sauce on top of the stove before serving.
OLD-FASHIONED MEATLOAF
This comes from VeryWellFit, and begins, “This lighter meatloaf recipe is similar to the one most of us enjoyed during our childhoods, but without all of the extra fat. Choose a lean ground beef or, better yet, ground turkey to cut down on the fat. And since you can't make meatloaf without breadcrumbs, why not replace the white, unrefined with whole wheat for added fiber? Also, using two egg whites in place of one whole egg will reduce the calories and fat while still helping to bind the mixture together.”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 60 minutes; Total Time: 70 minutes; Servings: 8
To view this online click here.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground meat (85% to 90% lean, or ground turkey)
1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat)
1/4 cup onion (finely chopped or 1 tablespoon dehydrated onion flakes)
2 cloves garlic (minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon sage
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup water (or low-fat milk)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 F.
In a large bowl, mix together all of the ingredients. Mix well, using your hands, but don't overmix because you will toughen the meat.
Turn mixture into a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for about 1 hour.
To be sure the meatloaf is done, insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the center of the loaf. The temperature should register 155F when it is done.
About 10 to 15 minutes before you think the meatloaf will be done, you can cover it with barbecue sauce if you like.
International Meatloaf
If you are looking for a different kind of meatloaf, try kofta kebabs, a Middle Eastern grilled ground meat recipe. The spices in this meat mixture (traditionally lamb) are a delicious change of pace from the usual. If you don't have the time or inclination to place them on skewers, you can make them into oblong-oval shapes that look like sausages without the casings.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
COUSCOUS WITH MIXED VEGETABLES
This came from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
Couscous:
16 oz couscous
2 cups water
2 teaspoons oil or margarine
Salt & pepper
Aromatic broth:
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup golden raisins
2 Tablespoons turmeric
1 Tablespoon sugar
1 Tablespoon coriander, ground
1 Tablespoon cumin
1 cinnamon stick
1 cup water
Salt & pepper to taste
Vegetables:
1/2 zucchini
1/2 yellow squash
1 turnip
1 carrot
1/8 cabbage
Directions
Boil water with salt, pepper & oil. Mix in couscous & place plastic wrap on top. Let steam for 15 minutes. Sauté onion. Add raisins, turmeric, coriander, cumin & cinnamon stick & 6 cups of water. Boil for 25 minutes, then strain. Cook zucchini, yellow squash, turnip, carrot, & cabbage in broth & set aside until ready to use.
CROCKPOT MAPLE BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICHES
This came from a Weight Watchers crockpot email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
4 servings = 225 calories, 4g fat, 1g fiber; 5 points per serving
Ingredients
1/2 C. maple flavored syrup
2 T. prepared mustard
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 t. lemon juice
1/2 t. chili powder
1/4 t. garlic powder
4 boneless, skinned chicken breasts
Directions
Place all ingredients in crockpot & cook on LOW for about 7 to 8 hours or until chicken is done.
You can either eat the breasts whole or shred them on buns or rice for more points.
SUMMER MINISTRONE SOUP
This comes from tbsp.com, and begins, “Minestrone soup, swimming with beans and macaroni, is vegetable soup’s heartier Italian cousin. Preparing it in advance and having at the ready in your freezer will have you singing ‘That’s Amore’ when dinnertime comes around.”
Prep Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1 can (14.5 oz) Muir Glen™ organic diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup Progresso™ cannellini beans, drained, rinsed (from 15-oz can)
1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh or frozen cut (1/2-inch) green beans
1/2 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
1 carton (32 oz) Progresso™ broth vegetable
Shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired
Directions
In 4-quart saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add the onion and salt; cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add garlic, thyme and oregano; cook 2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, cannellini beans, zucchini, carrot, green beans and macaroni.
Add stock; heat to simmering over medium-high heat. Cook 6 to 8 minutes or until macaroni is al dente. Top with Parmesan cheese.
To freeze: In 8-inch skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and salt; cook about 4 minutes or until softened. Add garlic, thyme and oregano; cook 2 minutes. Transfer to medium bowl. Stir in tomatoes and cannellini beans. Transfer to 1-quart resealable freezer plastic bag. Mix zucchini, carrot, green beans and macaroni in another 1-quart resealable freezer plastic bag. Freeze both bags up to 3 months. When ready to serve: In 4-quart saucepan, mix broth and bag of frozen tomato-bean mixture; heat to simmering over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium; cook until frozen tomato-bean mixture is completely thawed, stirring occasionally. Add bag of vegetables and macaroni; return to simmering. Cook 6 to 8 minutes or until macaroni is al dente. Top with Parmesan cheese.
Expert Tips
Lots of fun small pasta shapes are on your grocery store shelves. Try ditalini, orzo or small shells for a change of pace from elbow macaroni.
Canned chickpeas are a good substitute for the cannellini beans in this soup.
Wednesday, June 26, 2019
Lasagna
If you love lasagna as much as I do, today's post is for you. Try out the Mexican Lasagna or Slow Cooker Lasagna, then go from there. Enjoy!
QUICK, HIGH-PROTEIN VEGGIE LASAGNA
This recipe is from Vegetarian Times, and was posted on their website on January 2, 2005. It begins, “This easy-to-follow recipe provides you with 21 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the soy "steak" strips. The lasagna can be assembled quickly since you don't have to cook the pasta first. Excerpted from Diet Simple by Katherine Tallmadge.” Makes 10 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. minced garlic
12 oz. soy "steak" strips
1/2 lb. eggplant, cubed
1 ripe tomato, cubed
1 zucchini, diced
2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
2 tsp. dried oregano, or to taste
1 9-oz. pkg. oven-ready lasagna sheets
2 cups low-fat ricotta cheese
2 cups low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray nonstick 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat, and brown garlic 2 to 3 minutes. Add soy strips, and sauté 2 to 3 minutes. Add eggplant, tomato, zucchini and 1 cup of marinara sauce; cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in oregano, salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, place 6 sheets of lasagna in bottom of pan, overlapping as needed to fill gaps. Spoon in eggplant mixture, and top with layer of ricotta cheese. Place remaining lasagna strips over ricotta, and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Spread remaining marinara sauce on top, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and cover pan tightly with foil. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, or until top layer of pasta is soft. Remove and serve.
MEXICAN LASAGNA
This is from tbsp. (Tablespoon.com), and begins, “A delicious twist on lasagna!”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Servings: 10
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
6-8 large tortillas
1 lb ground beef
1 packet Old El Paso™ taco seasoning mix
1/3 medium onion, diced
1 can (19 oz) Old El Paso™ mild red enchilada sauce
1 can (16 oz) Old El Paso™ refried beans, any type
1 1/2 cup cheddar or mexican blend cheese
3 small or medium tomatoes, diced
Cilantro, as desired
Black olives, as desired
Sour cream, for topping
Shredded lettuce, for topping
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large non-stick skillet on stove, cook onions and beef until cooked through. Remove skillet from heat, drain off grease and stir in taco seasoning. Set aside.
Cover the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish with a thin coat of enchilada sauce. Layer tortilla halves in the bottom of the pan with the cut (straight) sides facing outward toward edges of pan. Cut pieces of another tortilla as needed to fill in any gaps and create a solid tortilla layer in the bottom of the pan.
Continue layering ingredients in the following order, making sure to save enough of each ingredient to form a second layer: refried beans, enchilada sauce, beef and onion mixture, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro and black olives (if desired).
Using equal amounts of ingredients as the first layer, form your second layer in the following order: tortillas, beans, enchilada sauce, meat and onions, cheese, tomatoes, cilantro and olives.
Top with a final layer of tortillas, and cover with a thin coating of enchilada sauce and cheese.
Bake lasagna for 30-45 minutes until cheese is melted and tortillas start to crisp. Serve with sour cream, lettuce and additional toppings as desired.
EASY SLOW-COOKER LASAGNA
This is from tbsp. (Tablespoon.com), and begins, “This lasagna tastes like you spent all day making it, without all of the work.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes; Servings: 10
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup diced white onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 jar (25.5 oz) Muir Glen™ Organic Pasta Sauce
1/2 cup water
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley
6 uncooked lasagna noodles
Directions
In a large skillet, brown beef and onion. Add garlic and cook for one minute. Drain.
Add spaghetti sauce and water to skillet and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Mix ricotta, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, egg and parsley.
Pour 1 cup of spaghetti meat sauce into a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Place half of the noodles and half of the ricotta mixture on top of the sauce. Cover with 2 cups meat sauce. Top with remaining noodles (if the noodles don't fit exactly, break them to fit), cheese mixture and meat sauce.
Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or until noodles are soft, being careful not to overcook. (Don't try to speed up the process by cooking on high.) Sprinkle 1/2 cup of mozzarella and remaining Parmesan on top. Cover with the lid to melt the cheese and allow to sit 10 minutes before serving.
VEGETARIAN LASAGNA
I’d been making lasagna for years, using a favorite cookbook. One time, my oldest son took the same recipe, and replaced the meat with eggplant. His came out tasting better than when I made it.
I tried recreating the eggplant version, but it never quite came out the same. So, I ended up changing the recipe drastically, changing ingredients and amounts. The funny thing is that, while I use one or two packages of tofu crumbles instead of meat, it tastes enough like meat to fool several non-vegetarians. One person, after eating this, even looked at me aghast, asking, “What are you, some kind of vegetarian?” Never heard from him again.
Ingredients
Tomato sauce:
2 – 3 onions, chopped
3 – 5 cloves garlic, minced
28 oz. can tomatoes
2 – 8 oz. cans tomato sauce
2 – 6 oz. cans tomato paste
2 T oil
1 T oregano
1 tsp. basil
1 tsp. thyme
1 tsp. dill
1 tsp. anise
1 or 2 – 10 oz. package tofu crumbles
Cheese layer:
2 C sour cream
2 C cottage cheese
2 eggs
4 C mozzarella, grated
2 C cheddar cheese, grated
1 C Parmesan cheese
Directions
Brown onions & garlic in oil. Add remaining ingredients, stir well, simmer for 1 hour. While sauce is cooking, in a separate pot, cook 16 oz. lasagna noodles
Make cheese layer:
Mix ingredients together in large bowl.
Assemble:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In 9” X 13” pan, place half the cooked lasagna noodles length-wise. Top with half the cheese mixture, then half the tomato sauce. Repeat. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. Let cool a few minutes before cutting, as it tends to be a little runny when it first comes out of the oven. Serve with a salad and a loaf of hot Italian bread. Very yummy.
SLOW COOKER LASAGNA
This was posted on Pure Wow, and is from Ali, whose blog, GimmeSomeOven, is absolutely fantastic! If you’ve never checked it out, you really should. Go ahead, I’ll wait. (Tap, tap, tap…)
Okay, so Ali starts this recipe off with, “This Slow Cooker Lasagna recipe is easy to make and customize with your favorite ingredients in the crock pot!”
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes; Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cook Time: 4 hours; Yield: 10 - 12 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/slow-cooker-lasgana-recipe/print/.
Ingredients
1 pound ground Italian sausage (I used spicy) or ground beef*
2 (24-ounce) jars of good-quality Italian pasta sauce**
16 uncooked no-boil lasagna noodles
32 ounces part-skim ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups chopped fresh baby spinach
1/4 cup finely-chopped fresh basil
Directions
Add the ground Italian sausage (or ground beef) to a large saute pan, and cook over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, using a large spoon to stir and break up the meet into small crumbles as it cooks. Remove from heat and drain off any excess grease. Set aside.
Meanwhile, as the meat is cooking, go ahead and get ready to assemble the lasagna. Begin by spraying the insert of a large 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Then layer the ingredients in the following order:
Spread 1 1/2 cups pasta sauce evenly along the bottom of the slow cooker.
Layer about 4 lasagna noodles — breaking them into smaller pieces as needed to fit — evenly over the sauce to cover the bottom of the slow cooker.
Layer about 1/3 of the ricotta cheese (a little over 1 cup) evenly on top of the noodles. (I found it was easiest to do this in small spoonfuls, and then spread them out with a spatula. It’s totally ok if it’s messy and uneven!)
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the shredded Mozzarella cheese and 2 Tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese in an even layer on top of the ricotta.
Layer about 1/3 of the cooked ground meat in an even layer on top of the cheeses.
Layer about 1/3 of the chopped spinach in an even layer on top of the ground meat.
Layer 1 cup of pasta sauce in an even layer on top of the spinach.
Repeat with another layer of noodles, ricotta, Mozzarella/Parmesan, ground meat, spinach, and sauce. Then repeat with another layer of noodles, ricotta, Mozzarella/Parmesan, ground meat, spinach, and sauce. Then add one more layer of noodles, sauce, and Mozzarella.
Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, or until the noodles are tender.
Turn off the heat, and sprinkle the top of the lasagna evenly with the remaining Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately. (Or if you let the lasagna sit and rest for 30 minutes, it will cut into pieces much more easily.)
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
QUICK, HIGH-PROTEIN VEGGIE LASAGNA
This recipe is from Vegetarian Times, and was posted on their website on January 2, 2005. It begins, “This easy-to-follow recipe provides you with 21 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the soy "steak" strips. The lasagna can be assembled quickly since you don't have to cook the pasta first. Excerpted from Diet Simple by Katherine Tallmadge.” Makes 10 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. minced garlic
12 oz. soy "steak" strips
1/2 lb. eggplant, cubed
1 ripe tomato, cubed
1 zucchini, diced
2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
2 tsp. dried oregano, or to taste
1 9-oz. pkg. oven-ready lasagna sheets
2 cups low-fat ricotta cheese
2 cups low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray nonstick 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat, and brown garlic 2 to 3 minutes. Add soy strips, and sauté 2 to 3 minutes. Add eggplant, tomato, zucchini and 1 cup of marinara sauce; cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in oregano, salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, place 6 sheets of lasagna in bottom of pan, overlapping as needed to fill gaps. Spoon in eggplant mixture, and top with layer of ricotta cheese. Place remaining lasagna strips over ricotta, and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Spread remaining marinara sauce on top, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and cover pan tightly with foil. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, or until top layer of pasta is soft. Remove and serve.
MEXICAN LASAGNA
This is from tbsp. (Tablespoon.com), and begins, “A delicious twist on lasagna!”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Servings: 10
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
6-8 large tortillas
1 lb ground beef
1 packet Old El Paso™ taco seasoning mix
1/3 medium onion, diced
1 can (19 oz) Old El Paso™ mild red enchilada sauce
1 can (16 oz) Old El Paso™ refried beans, any type
1 1/2 cup cheddar or mexican blend cheese
3 small or medium tomatoes, diced
Cilantro, as desired
Black olives, as desired
Sour cream, for topping
Shredded lettuce, for topping
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large non-stick skillet on stove, cook onions and beef until cooked through. Remove skillet from heat, drain off grease and stir in taco seasoning. Set aside.
Cover the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish with a thin coat of enchilada sauce. Layer tortilla halves in the bottom of the pan with the cut (straight) sides facing outward toward edges of pan. Cut pieces of another tortilla as needed to fill in any gaps and create a solid tortilla layer in the bottom of the pan.
Continue layering ingredients in the following order, making sure to save enough of each ingredient to form a second layer: refried beans, enchilada sauce, beef and onion mixture, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro and black olives (if desired).
Using equal amounts of ingredients as the first layer, form your second layer in the following order: tortillas, beans, enchilada sauce, meat and onions, cheese, tomatoes, cilantro and olives.
Top with a final layer of tortillas, and cover with a thin coating of enchilada sauce and cheese.
Bake lasagna for 30-45 minutes until cheese is melted and tortillas start to crisp. Serve with sour cream, lettuce and additional toppings as desired.
EASY SLOW-COOKER LASAGNA
This is from tbsp. (Tablespoon.com), and begins, “This lasagna tastes like you spent all day making it, without all of the work.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes; Servings: 10
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup diced white onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 jar (25.5 oz) Muir Glen™ Organic Pasta Sauce
1/2 cup water
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley
6 uncooked lasagna noodles
Directions
In a large skillet, brown beef and onion. Add garlic and cook for one minute. Drain.
Add spaghetti sauce and water to skillet and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Mix ricotta, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, egg and parsley.
Pour 1 cup of spaghetti meat sauce into a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Place half of the noodles and half of the ricotta mixture on top of the sauce. Cover with 2 cups meat sauce. Top with remaining noodles (if the noodles don't fit exactly, break them to fit), cheese mixture and meat sauce.
Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or until noodles are soft, being careful not to overcook. (Don't try to speed up the process by cooking on high.) Sprinkle 1/2 cup of mozzarella and remaining Parmesan on top. Cover with the lid to melt the cheese and allow to sit 10 minutes before serving.
VEGETARIAN LASAGNA
I’d been making lasagna for years, using a favorite cookbook. One time, my oldest son took the same recipe, and replaced the meat with eggplant. His came out tasting better than when I made it.
I tried recreating the eggplant version, but it never quite came out the same. So, I ended up changing the recipe drastically, changing ingredients and amounts. The funny thing is that, while I use one or two packages of tofu crumbles instead of meat, it tastes enough like meat to fool several non-vegetarians. One person, after eating this, even looked at me aghast, asking, “What are you, some kind of vegetarian?” Never heard from him again.
Ingredients
Tomato sauce:
2 – 3 onions, chopped
3 – 5 cloves garlic, minced
28 oz. can tomatoes
2 – 8 oz. cans tomato sauce
2 – 6 oz. cans tomato paste
2 T oil
1 T oregano
1 tsp. basil
1 tsp. thyme
1 tsp. dill
1 tsp. anise
1 or 2 – 10 oz. package tofu crumbles
Cheese layer:
2 C sour cream
2 C cottage cheese
2 eggs
4 C mozzarella, grated
2 C cheddar cheese, grated
1 C Parmesan cheese
Directions
Brown onions & garlic in oil. Add remaining ingredients, stir well, simmer for 1 hour. While sauce is cooking, in a separate pot, cook 16 oz. lasagna noodles
Make cheese layer:
Mix ingredients together in large bowl.
Assemble:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In 9” X 13” pan, place half the cooked lasagna noodles length-wise. Top with half the cheese mixture, then half the tomato sauce. Repeat. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. Let cool a few minutes before cutting, as it tends to be a little runny when it first comes out of the oven. Serve with a salad and a loaf of hot Italian bread. Very yummy.
SLOW COOKER LASAGNA
This was posted on Pure Wow, and is from Ali, whose blog, GimmeSomeOven, is absolutely fantastic! If you’ve never checked it out, you really should. Go ahead, I’ll wait. (Tap, tap, tap…)
Okay, so Ali starts this recipe off with, “This Slow Cooker Lasagna recipe is easy to make and customize with your favorite ingredients in the crock pot!”
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes; Prep Time: 25 minutes; Cook Time: 4 hours; Yield: 10 - 12 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/slow-cooker-lasgana-recipe/print/.
Ingredients
1 pound ground Italian sausage (I used spicy) or ground beef*
2 (24-ounce) jars of good-quality Italian pasta sauce**
16 uncooked no-boil lasagna noodles
32 ounces part-skim ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups chopped fresh baby spinach
1/4 cup finely-chopped fresh basil
Directions
Add the ground Italian sausage (or ground beef) to a large saute pan, and cook over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, using a large spoon to stir and break up the meet into small crumbles as it cooks. Remove from heat and drain off any excess grease. Set aside.
Meanwhile, as the meat is cooking, go ahead and get ready to assemble the lasagna. Begin by spraying the insert of a large 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Then layer the ingredients in the following order:
Spread 1 1/2 cups pasta sauce evenly along the bottom of the slow cooker.
Layer about 4 lasagna noodles — breaking them into smaller pieces as needed to fit — evenly over the sauce to cover the bottom of the slow cooker.
Layer about 1/3 of the ricotta cheese (a little over 1 cup) evenly on top of the noodles. (I found it was easiest to do this in small spoonfuls, and then spread them out with a spatula. It’s totally ok if it’s messy and uneven!)
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the shredded Mozzarella cheese and 2 Tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese in an even layer on top of the ricotta.
Layer about 1/3 of the cooked ground meat in an even layer on top of the cheeses.
Layer about 1/3 of the chopped spinach in an even layer on top of the ground meat.
Layer 1 cup of pasta sauce in an even layer on top of the spinach.
Repeat with another layer of noodles, ricotta, Mozzarella/Parmesan, ground meat, spinach, and sauce. Then repeat with another layer of noodles, ricotta, Mozzarella/Parmesan, ground meat, spinach, and sauce. Then add one more layer of noodles, sauce, and Mozzarella.
Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, or until the noodles are tender.
Turn off the heat, and sprinkle the top of the lasagna evenly with the remaining Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately. (Or if you let the lasagna sit and rest for 30 minutes, it will cut into pieces much more easily.)
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
Thursday, June 6, 2019
Double-Post Thursday
If you've followed this blog for a while, you know the routine: Besides being Diabetic Thursday, it's also Double-Post Thursday. Today's offerings include Flank Steak Fajita Burritos and Crockpot Maple BBQ Chicken Sandwiches. Enjoy!
LEMON SNACKING CAKE WITH COCONUT GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “With a poundcake-like texture and zippy lemon flavor, this tender treat is loaded with grated citrus zest and topped with a sweet, mellow coconut frosting. Like many snacking cakes, it’s easily whisked together without a mixer, and quick to bake. Perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up, it goes as well with a glass of milk as it does with mugs of coffee, tea or hot cocoa.”
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola, plus more for pan
3 lemons
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 packed cup shredded sweetened coconut
For the Glaze:
3 tablespoons coconut milk
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
Pinch of fine sea salt
2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
Finely grated lemon zest, for garnish
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edge of the pan by at least 2 inches.
Grate 2 tablespoons of zest from the lemons. Juice the lemons so you have 1/4 cup juice. Add juice and zest to a medium bowl, then whisk in oil, sour cream, coconut milk and eggs.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk wet mixture into dry mixture until smooth.
Scrape batter into baking pan and spread in an even layer. Sprinkle evenly with shredded sweetened coconut. Bake until the top of the cake springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, 35 to 45 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, oil and salt. Whisk in the confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Pour over the cake, and grate some lemon zest over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE
This came from a Weight Watchers email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
Serves: 8; 5 points
Ingredients
12 oz uncooked macaroni, elbow-type
1/2 cup fat-free sour cream
12 oz fat-free evaporated milk
8 oz low-fat cheddar or Colby cheese, shredded
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
2 Tbsp dried bread crumbs
2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350ºF.
Cook pasta according to package directions without added fat or salt; drain & transfer to a large bowl. While pasta is still hot, stir in sour cream; set aside.
Heat milk in small saucepan over medium heat until tiny bubbles appear just around the edges. Reduce heat to low, add cheese & simmer until cheese melts, stirring constantly with wire whisk, about 2 minutes; remove from heat & stir in mustard, salt, pepper & nutmeg.
Add cheese mixture to pasta; mix well. Transfer to a 4-quart casserole dish. Combine bread crumbs & Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over pasta. Bake until top is golden, about 30 minutes. Yields about 1 cup per serving.
CLASSIC NACHOS
This is from Better Homes & Gardens, and begins, “These five-ingredient nachos are a cinch to make for a large crowd. Bake a batch for your next party and serve with an array of topping options, like cilantro, jalapeno peppers, sour cream and salsa.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Bake Time: 20 minutes at 350°; Servings: 8
View this online here.
Ingredients
5 cups bite-sized tortilla chips (6 ounces)
1 pound ground beef
1 15 ounce can black beans or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup bottled chunky salsa
1 1/2 – 2 cups shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or Mexican cheese blend (6 ounces)
Optional toppings (such as thinly sliced green onion, snipped fresh cilantro, seeded and sliced fresh jalapeño chile pepper, sour cream, and/or additional bottled chunky salsa)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange half of the tortilla chips on an 11- or 12-inch ovenproof platter or pizza pan; set aside.
In a large skillet cook ground beef over medium heat until brown. Drain off fat.
Stir the black beans and the 1 cup salsa into the beef. Spoon half of the mixture over chips. Sprinkle with half the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until cheese melts. Remove from oven. Top with remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese. Bake for 10 minutes more or until cheese melts.
If desired, top with green onion, cilantro, jalapeño chile pepper, sour cream, and/or additional salsa.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 368 calories, (8 g saturated fat, 3 g polyunsaturated fat, 7 g monounsaturated fat), 61 mg cholesterol, 638 mg sodium, 26 g carbohydrates, 5 g fiber, 1 g sugar, 23 g protein.
FLANK STEAK FAJITA BURRITOS
This also comes from Better Homes & Gardens, and begins, “These delicious steak burritos get a zesty marinade of lime, orange juice, and chipotle peppers. Full of fresh peppers and zucchini, this burrito recipe will quickly become a family favorite.”
Prep: 20 mins; Marinate: 1 hr to 12 hrs; Cook: 25 mins; Servings: 6; Yield: 6 burritos
View this online here.
Ingredients
1 orange
1 lime
1/4 cup plus 1 tsp. vegetable oil
2 – 3 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (seeded if desired), finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 2 pound beef flank steak, halved crosswise
1 large sweet onion, halved and thinly sliced
2 medium green, red, and/or yellow sweet peppers, cut into thin strips
1/2 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
6 10 inch flour tortillas, warmed
3/4 cup guacamole
1/4 cup snipped fresh cilantro
1 cup purchased salsa verde
Directions
Zest the lime and juice both the orange and lime. In a large resealable plastic bag combine 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 cup oil, chipotle peppers, 1 teaspoon of the cumin, and the salt. Add steak. Seal bag; turn to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator 1 to 12 hours.
Remove meat from marinade. Reserve 2 tablespoons marinade; discard any remaining marinade. Pat meat dry with paper towels. In a large grill pan, heat 1 teaspoon oil over medium-high heat. Add steak to pan. Cook for 14 to 18 minutes or until steak reaches desired doneness, turning once halfway through cooking. If needed cook in batches. (Or, for a gas or charcoal grill, grill the steak on the greased rack of a covered grill over medium heat for 17 to 21 minutes or until steak reaches desired doneness.) Transfer meat to a cutting board. Cover and let stand 10 minutes. Cut steak across grain into 1/4-inch-thick slices.
Meanwhile, heat the same grill pan* over medium-high heat. Add the onions to the drippings in the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes. Stir in the sweet peppers and zucchini. Cook 1 minute more. Add the reserved 2 tablespoons marinade and remaining 1/2 teaspoon cumin. Cook and stir 2 minutes more.
Lay tortillas on a flat work surface. Arrange meat along the bottom one-third of the tortillas. Top with cooked vegetables, guacamole, and cilantro. Fold bottoms of tortillas over filling. Fold in sides. Roll up tortillas tightly. Cut burritos in half. Serve with salsa verde.
Tips
If using a gas or charcoal grill, use a large skillet to cook the vegetables. Use 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in place of the drippings.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 620 calories, (8 g saturated fat, 6 g polyunsaturated fat, 6 g monounsaturated fat), 101 mg cholesterol, 1007 mg sodium, 48 g carbohydrates, 7 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 41 g protein.
CROCKPOT MAPLE BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICHES
This came from a Weight Watchers crockpot email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
4 servings = 225 calories, 4g fat, 1g fiber; 5 points per serving
Ingredients
1/2 C. maple flavored syrup
2 T. prepared mustard
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 t. lemon juice
1/2 t. chili powder
1/4 t. garlic powder
4 boneless, skinned chicken breasts
Directions
Place all ingredients in crockpot & cook on LOW for about 7 to 8 hours or until chicken is done.
You can either eat the breasts whole or shred them on buns or rice for more points.
LEMON SNACKING CAKE WITH COCONUT GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “With a poundcake-like texture and zippy lemon flavor, this tender treat is loaded with grated citrus zest and topped with a sweet, mellow coconut frosting. Like many snacking cakes, it’s easily whisked together without a mixer, and quick to bake. Perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up, it goes as well with a glass of milk as it does with mugs of coffee, tea or hot cocoa.”
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola, plus more for pan
3 lemons
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 packed cup shredded sweetened coconut
For the Glaze:
3 tablespoons coconut milk
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
Pinch of fine sea salt
2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
Finely grated lemon zest, for garnish
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edge of the pan by at least 2 inches.
Grate 2 tablespoons of zest from the lemons. Juice the lemons so you have 1/4 cup juice. Add juice and zest to a medium bowl, then whisk in oil, sour cream, coconut milk and eggs.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk wet mixture into dry mixture until smooth.
Scrape batter into baking pan and spread in an even layer. Sprinkle evenly with shredded sweetened coconut. Bake until the top of the cake springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, 35 to 45 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, oil and salt. Whisk in the confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Pour over the cake, and grate some lemon zest over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY PASTITSIO (GREEK LASAGNA)
This is from Diabetes Food Hub, and begins, “This version of Greek Lasagna is a great family meal that pairs well with a green salad topped with a little feta cheese and light Greek salad dressing.”
Prep Time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12; Serving Size: 1 slice
View this online at https://www.diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/budget-friendly-pastitsio-greek-lasagna.html.
Ingredients
1 spray Nonstick cooking spray
1 medium onion (diced)
20 oz lean ground turkey (93% fat-free)
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 can tomato sauce (15 ounce, low-sodium)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 lbs brown rice or quinoa penne pasta (or whole wheat penne pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
2 cups skim milk
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1 egg
Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 8
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
Add cooking spray to a large nonstick sauté pan. Sauté onions for 4-5 minutes or until translucent. Add in ground turkey and sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Add cinnamon, oregano, salt (optional), ground black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes or until just starting to thicken.
Stir in parsley and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain and stir immediately into turkey mixture. Pour the pasta and turkey mixture into the baking sheet and press down so it is evenly spread in the pan.
Add the olive oil to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook the flour for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown it. Stir constantly.
Slowly whisk in the skim milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Whisk in the nutmeg and parmesan cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and then slowly whisk in the hot milk mixture to temper the egg. Add the rest of the milk mixture to the egg and then pour over the top of the pasta, spreading to coat the entire thing.
Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.
BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE
This came from a Weight Watchers email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
Serves: 8; 5 points
Ingredients
12 oz uncooked macaroni, elbow-type
1/2 cup fat-free sour cream
12 oz fat-free evaporated milk
8 oz low-fat cheddar or Colby cheese, shredded
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
2 Tbsp dried bread crumbs
2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 350ºF.
Cook pasta according to package directions without added fat or salt; drain & transfer to a large bowl. While pasta is still hot, stir in sour cream; set aside.
Heat milk in small saucepan over medium heat until tiny bubbles appear just around the edges. Reduce heat to low, add cheese & simmer until cheese melts, stirring constantly with wire whisk, about 2 minutes; remove from heat & stir in mustard, salt, pepper & nutmeg.
Add cheese mixture to pasta; mix well. Transfer to a 4-quart casserole dish. Combine bread crumbs & Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over pasta. Bake until top is golden, about 30 minutes. Yields about 1 cup per serving.
CLASSIC NACHOS
This is from Better Homes & Gardens, and begins, “These five-ingredient nachos are a cinch to make for a large crowd. Bake a batch for your next party and serve with an array of topping options, like cilantro, jalapeno peppers, sour cream and salsa.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Bake Time: 20 minutes at 350°; Servings: 8
View this online here.
Ingredients
5 cups bite-sized tortilla chips (6 ounces)
1 pound ground beef
1 15 ounce can black beans or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup bottled chunky salsa
1 1/2 – 2 cups shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or Mexican cheese blend (6 ounces)
Optional toppings (such as thinly sliced green onion, snipped fresh cilantro, seeded and sliced fresh jalapeño chile pepper, sour cream, and/or additional bottled chunky salsa)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange half of the tortilla chips on an 11- or 12-inch ovenproof platter or pizza pan; set aside.
In a large skillet cook ground beef over medium heat until brown. Drain off fat.
Stir the black beans and the 1 cup salsa into the beef. Spoon half of the mixture over chips. Sprinkle with half the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until cheese melts. Remove from oven. Top with remaining chips, beef mixture, and cheese. Bake for 10 minutes more or until cheese melts.
If desired, top with green onion, cilantro, jalapeño chile pepper, sour cream, and/or additional salsa.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 368 calories, (8 g saturated fat, 3 g polyunsaturated fat, 7 g monounsaturated fat), 61 mg cholesterol, 638 mg sodium, 26 g carbohydrates, 5 g fiber, 1 g sugar, 23 g protein.
FLANK STEAK FAJITA BURRITOS
This also comes from Better Homes & Gardens, and begins, “These delicious steak burritos get a zesty marinade of lime, orange juice, and chipotle peppers. Full of fresh peppers and zucchini, this burrito recipe will quickly become a family favorite.”
Prep: 20 mins; Marinate: 1 hr to 12 hrs; Cook: 25 mins; Servings: 6; Yield: 6 burritos
View this online here.
Ingredients
1 orange
1 lime
1/4 cup plus 1 tsp. vegetable oil
2 – 3 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (seeded if desired), finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 2 pound beef flank steak, halved crosswise
1 large sweet onion, halved and thinly sliced
2 medium green, red, and/or yellow sweet peppers, cut into thin strips
1/2 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
6 10 inch flour tortillas, warmed
3/4 cup guacamole
1/4 cup snipped fresh cilantro
1 cup purchased salsa verde
Directions
Zest the lime and juice both the orange and lime. In a large resealable plastic bag combine 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 cup oil, chipotle peppers, 1 teaspoon of the cumin, and the salt. Add steak. Seal bag; turn to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator 1 to 12 hours.
Remove meat from marinade. Reserve 2 tablespoons marinade; discard any remaining marinade. Pat meat dry with paper towels. In a large grill pan, heat 1 teaspoon oil over medium-high heat. Add steak to pan. Cook for 14 to 18 minutes or until steak reaches desired doneness, turning once halfway through cooking. If needed cook in batches. (Or, for a gas or charcoal grill, grill the steak on the greased rack of a covered grill over medium heat for 17 to 21 minutes or until steak reaches desired doneness.) Transfer meat to a cutting board. Cover and let stand 10 minutes. Cut steak across grain into 1/4-inch-thick slices.
Meanwhile, heat the same grill pan* over medium-high heat. Add the onions to the drippings in the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes. Stir in the sweet peppers and zucchini. Cook 1 minute more. Add the reserved 2 tablespoons marinade and remaining 1/2 teaspoon cumin. Cook and stir 2 minutes more.
Lay tortillas on a flat work surface. Arrange meat along the bottom one-third of the tortillas. Top with cooked vegetables, guacamole, and cilantro. Fold bottoms of tortillas over filling. Fold in sides. Roll up tortillas tightly. Cut burritos in half. Serve with salsa verde.
Tips
If using a gas or charcoal grill, use a large skillet to cook the vegetables. Use 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in place of the drippings.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 620 calories, (8 g saturated fat, 6 g polyunsaturated fat, 6 g monounsaturated fat), 101 mg cholesterol, 1007 mg sodium, 48 g carbohydrates, 7 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 41 g protein.
CROCKPOT MAPLE BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICHES
This came from a Weight Watchers crockpot email list maybe a decade or more ago. The points value is from then.
4 servings = 225 calories, 4g fat, 1g fiber; 5 points per serving
Ingredients
1/2 C. maple flavored syrup
2 T. prepared mustard
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 t. lemon juice
1/2 t. chili powder
1/4 t. garlic powder
4 boneless, skinned chicken breasts
Directions
Place all ingredients in crockpot & cook on LOW for about 7 to 8 hours or until chicken is done.
You can either eat the breasts whole or shred them on buns or rice for more points.
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