Confessions of a Foodie

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Showing posts with label Vegetable Frittata. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vegetable Frittata. Show all posts

Monday, January 13, 2020

Meatless Monday

We've survived another weekend (a good thing!). But if you're like me, you probably didn't accomplish everything you intended to get done.

Did I get that one right? If the answer is yes, I thought so. But if you accomplished everything you planned, please give me a clue how you did it! Unless, of course, your plans were simply to veg out all weekend!

No matter, there's always next weekend!

In the meantime, it's time for another Meatless Monday, where we explore vegetarian food. Today's six yummy vegetarian recipes include Lasagna Roll-Ups and a Vegetable Frittata. Enjoy!

GRASSHOPPER BROWNIES

This is from Yossy Arefi in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Yossy wrote, “The classic grasshopper cocktail is made from equal parts crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Its mint-chocolatey flavors translate perfectly to all sorts of desserts. These decadent layered bars start with a super fudgy brownie base, which is covered with crème de menthe infused buttercream, and a shell of rich chocolate ganache tops it all off. You could certainly substitute a bit more peppermint extract (about 2 teaspoons) and skip the alcohol in the crème de menthe if you’d like to keep these more family friendly. Peppermint extract varies quite a bit in intensity by brand, which is why a range is given, so taste as you go.”

Yield: One 8-by-8-inch pan, 16 servings; Time: About 1 hour plus chilling

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Brownie:

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped

1/2 cup unsalted butter

2 large eggs

3/4 cup light brown sugar

1/4 cup Dutch process cocoa powder

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/3 cup all purpose flour

For the Crème De Menthe Buttercream:

1/2 cup unsalted butter softened

2 tablespoons cream cheese, at room temperature

2 tablespoons crème de menthe

1/2 to 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

Pinch kosher salt

2 cups confectioner’s sugar

For the Ganache:

6 ounces bittersweet chocolate

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Pinch kosher salt

Preparation

Heat oven to 350 degrees and line the bottom and sides of an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Make the brownies: In a heat-safe bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt the 8 ounces/227 grams bittersweet chocolate and 1/2 cup/113 grams butter, stirring occasionally until smooth.

In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs and brown sugar together, until the mixture lightens a bit in color and texture, about 1 minute. Whisk in the cocoa powder, vanilla extract and salt, followed by the chocolate and butter mixture. Fold in the flour until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until the brownies are set and a toothpick inserted into the center has a few moist crumbs, 20 to 25 minutes. Set the pan on a rack to cool completely.

Make the buttercream: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Add the crème de menthe, 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt and mix until smooth. Lower the mixer speed and slowly add the confectioners’ sugar. Increase the speed and beat until smooth. Taste and add more peppermint extract if desired.

Spread the buttercream over the cooled brownies, then refrigerate the brownies until the buttercream is cold and firm, about 30 minutes.

Make the ganache: Combine all of the ingredients for the ganache in a heat-safe bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Warm the mixture, stirring occasionally until it is melted and smooth. Pour the chocolate over the cooled buttercream and smooth the top with an offset spatula. Chill until the topping is set, about 30 minutes. Store the brownies in the refrigerator. For the cleanest slices make sure to remove the brownies from the pan and wipe off your knife in between cuts.

CRANBERRY PUMPKIN BREAD

This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 2 loaves, 16 servings each.

Ingredients

3 1/2 cups flour

1 cup packed brown sugar

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

dash salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1 cup egg substitute or egg whites

1 can whole berry cranberry sauce

1 can pumpkin

1/3 cup applesauce applesauce

1 tablespoon grated orange peel

2 tablespoons chopped nuts, optional

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray two loaf pans with vegetable spray.

Mix flour, brown sugar and spices in large bowl. In another, mix together all but nuts until well blended. Stir into flour mixture until moistened. Pour into pans and sprinkle with nuts, if desired.

Bake 55-60 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes, then remove from pan.

VEGETABLE FRITTATA

This also comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.

Ingredients

Mixture of green peppers, red peppers, yellow peppers, onion, mushrooms, broccoli, squash (about 2-3 cups total)

Olive oil

5-6 eggs

Milk

About 1/2 cup grated cheese (Cheddar, Swiss or Parmesan)

Salt and freshly-ground pepper to taste

Parsley sprigs for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Gently saute the vegetables in a 9- or 10-inch oven-proof skillet in the olive oil until just soft.

Mix eggs with a little milk, then pour over and around the vegetables. Sprinkle cheese over the top.

Cook over medium heat enough to set the eggs, then place in the oven to finish the cooking. Bake until the top of the frittata is no longer runny. Garnish and serve.

AMBROSIA SALAD

This comes from Delish, and begins, “There's a reason it's a classic.”

To view this online, click here.

Yields: 6 servings; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 15 minutes.

Ingredients

1 1/2 c. Cool Whip

1/2 c. sour cream

3 c. mini marshmallows

1 (15-oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained

1 c. chopped fresh pineapple

1 c. shredded coconut

3/4 c. halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained

3/4 c. toasted pecans

Directions

In a large bowl, fold together Cool Whip and sour cream. Add oranges, pineapple, cherries, coconut, pecans, and marshmallows and stir gently.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to overnight.

LASAGNA ROLL-UPS

This recipe, from FamilyTime, begins, “These tender lasagna rolls are filled with a ricotta-mushroom-pesto mixture, and baked in a special sauce made by combining Prego® Traditional Italian Sauce and Pace® Picante Sauce.”

Serves: 4 servings (2 roll-ups each); Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 can (about 4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained

1/2 cup refrigerated pesto sauce

8 lasagna noodle, cooked and drained

2 cups Prego® Traditional Italian Sauce or Tomato, Basil & Garlic Italian Sauce

3/4 cup Pace® Picante Sauce

4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup)

Directions

Stir the ricotta, mushrooms and pesto in a medium bowl. Top each noodle with 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture. Spread to the edges. Roll up like a jelly roll. Place the rolls seam-side down in a 2-quart shallow baking dish.

Stir the Italian sauce and picante sauce in a small bowl and pour the mixture over the roll-ups.

Bake at 400°F. for 30 minutes or until they're hot and bubbling. Top with the mozzarella cheese. Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Let stand for 10 minutes.

STRAWBERRY SORBET

This comes from Amanda Hesser in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. The recipe begins, “This mouthwatering summer sorbet is an adaptation of one served at the River Café in London. Yes, it calls for an entire lemon (rind and all), but trust us: the sweet of the strawberries and sugar, the tart and bitter of the lemon – it all works together beautifully.”

Yield: Makes 1 1/2 quarters; Time: 10 minutes.

This was featured in “The Arsenal” and can be viewed online here.

By the way, I highly recommend The Times’ Melissa Clark’s “How to Make Ice Cream”. I dare you to check it out and not want to immediately start making ice cream!

Ingredients

1 whole lemon, seeded and roughly chopped

2 cups sugar

2 pounds strawberries, hulled

Juice of 1 to 2 lemons

Preparation

Place the chopped lemon and sugar in a food processor, and pulse until combined. Transfer to a bowl.

Purée the strawberries in a food processor, and add to the lemon mixture, along with the juice of 1 lemon. Taste and add more juice as desired. The lemon flavor should be intense but should not overpower the strawberries. Pour the mixture into an ice cream machine and churn until frozen.

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Eggs-Actly!

Eggs are a wonderful source of protein, and are a lot more versatile than many of us give them. Here are six yummy recipes that are eggs-actly a great way to have a light dinner, anytime, including several frittata recipes, two omelets, and Mini Cheddar Quiche Bites. Enjoy!

VEGETABLE FRITTATA

This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.

Ingredients

Mixture of green peppers, red peppers, yellow peppers, onion, mushrooms, broccoli, squash (about 2-3 cups total)

Olive oil

5-6 eggs

Milk

About 1/2 cup grated cheese (Cheddar, Swiss or Parmesan)

Salt and freshly-ground pepper to taste

Parsley sprigs for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Gently saute the vegetables in a 9- or 10-inch oven-proof skillet in the olive oil until just soft.

Mix eggs with a little milk, then pour over and around the vegetables. Sprinkle cheese over the top.

Cook over medium heat enough to set the eggs, then place in the oven to finish the cooking. Bake until the top of the frittata is no longer runny. Garnish and serve.

FRITTATA WITH HERBED RICOTTA CHEESE AND CANADIAN BACON

This was on an old Weight Watcher's emailing list. Unfortunately, I no longer have a link to it, as WW has changed enough over the years. The points value is from when the email came out.

The recipe begins, “This fabulous frittata can be made with any combination of herbs. Try tarragon instead of basil, or equal parts of basil, thyme and oregano in place of the 1/3 cup of basil.”

POINTS® Value: 4; Servings: 4; Preparation Time: 15 min; Cooking Time: 6 min; Level of Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

1 Tbsp olive oil

4 large egg(s), beaten

2/3 cup fat-free ricotta cheese

1/3 cup basil, fresh, coarsely chopped

1/3 cup chives, fresh, coarsely chopped

1/3 cup parsley, fresh, coarsely chopped

3 oz Canadian-style bacon, finely julienned

1/8 tsp black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste

Directions

Heat oil in a 9-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Add remaining ingredients to hot skillet; stir occasionally with a wooden spoon until eggs are set and only the surface is runny, about 3 minutes. Flip frittata out onto a plate so browned side is face-up. Slide frittata back into skillet and cook until second side is slightly browned, about 3 minutes more. (Note: If you do not want to flip the frittata, you can finish cooking it in the oven using an ovenproof skillet. Broil until slightly browned, about 2 to 3 minutes.)

Slide frittata out of pan and cut into 8 wedges; serve immediately. Yields 2 wedges per serving.

TOMATO FRITTATA

This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Serves 4.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 medium onions, thinly sliced

1 (15 ounce) can of Italian tomatoes, drained and coarsely chopped

6 eggs, beaten

Salt and freshly-ground pepper, to taste

3 tablespoons freshly-grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh basil

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over moderate heat and sauté the onions for 8 to 10 minutes, until golden but not brown. Add the tomatoes and cook an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Combine the eggs, salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and basil in a mixing bowl. Turn the heat down to the lowest setting and add the egg mixture to the pan, stirring a little to combine the onions and tomatoes. Cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, until the eggs have set and only the top surface is still runny.

Place the skillet under a preheated broiler and cook for 1 or 2 minutes, just until the eggs on the surface have set. Properly cooked, the frittata should not be brown on the top or bottom.

MINI CHEDDAR QUICHE BITES

This is from FamilyTime, and begins, “These simple, mini quiche bites are easy to make ahead and then reheat in the microwave. Perfect for kids, breakfasts on-the-go, parties, pot-lucks and more.”

Makes 24 mini-quiches; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 12 to 15 minutes

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1/4 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs

4 large eggs

1/3 cup half-and-half

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

1 1/4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350° F. Generously spray 24 mini-muffin cups with flavorless cooking spray.

Lightly pat 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of crumbs in the bottom of each muffin cup. Tap the muffin pan to insure the crumbs lightly coat the sides.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt and pepper until blended. Add the cheese and mix well. Spoon evenly into the muffin cups. Each cup will take about 1 tablespoon.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or just until set. Let the muffin pans cool on wire racks for about 5 minutes. Loosen the quiches from the sides of the muffin cups with a thin knife and remove them. Serve warm.

SPINACH OMELET

This is from a Weight Watcher's emailing list from y-e-a-r-s ago, and began, “If you like, add a chopped tomato to the mixture just before folding the omelet.”

When this was sent, it had a points value of 5.

Servings: 1; Preparation Time: 8 min; Cooking Time: 10 min; Level of Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

2 1/2 cup spinach, coarsely chopped (do not dry)

2 large egg(s)

2 tsp grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp table salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp olive oil

Directions

In a medium saucepan, cook spinach with just the water that clings to it until just wilted, about 2 minutes.

Drain well, squeezing out all liquid. Cool, then chop finely.

In a medium bowl, combine eggs, cheese, salt, pepper and 1 tablespoon water.

In a small nonstick skillet, heat oil. Pour egg mixture into pan; reduce heat and cook until base is set and top is still a little creamy, about 2 minutes.

Sprinkle spinach over one half of eggs; fold omelet in half and cook until eggs are completely set, about 1 minute longer. Serve at once.

OMELET PROVENCAL

This recipe begins, “Create the perfect omelet with the savory French flavors of Provence: tomatoes, garlic, olives and herbs. Make one omelet for two, or two omelets for four. Either way, this easy main dish becomes the highlight of a quick, nutritious meal.”

Recipe Yield: Servings: 2

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/omelet-provencal.

Ingredients

3 large eggs*

1 tablespoon water

Pinch of freshly ground black pepper

2 teaspoons olive oil

1/2 cup diced canned tomatoes with garlic and onion, drained

1/4 cup shredded Muenster cheese

2 tablespoons canned sliced black olives

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 teaspoon herbs de Provence Parsley sprigs, for garnish

* If you need to restrict cholesterol, use 3/4 cup egg substitute, or use some egg whites in place of a whole egg(s).

Directions

Combine eggs, water and pepper in a small bowl; whisk gently to blend the whites and yolks, but not to make them frothy.

Melt the olive oil in a 10-inch, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, tilting to coat the bottom and sides.

Once the oil is hot, pour the eggs in.

As the eggs start to set, lift the edges so the uncooked egg mixture flows underneath. Cook until the eggs are set and no visible liquid egg remains, about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes.

Top half the omelet with tomatoes, cheese and olives; sprinkle with parsley and herbs de Provence. Flip the unfilled half of the omelet over the top.

Heat until lightly browned on the bottom, then slide onto a plate to serve.

Garnish with parsley sprigs.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 240; Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 550 mg; Cholesterol: 330 mg; Protein: 13 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g

Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Tuesday Recipes

Hot-weather meals tend to be a little different from cold-weather meals: lighter, with less time over the stove. But we still want something satisfying. These recipes fit the bill. Enjoy!

NO-BAKE ICEBOX CAKE

This comes from one of my favorite websites, The Kitchn.com. This and its sibling site, Apartment Therapy, are really pretty cool, and have great newsletters. If you haven't already signed up, I highly encourage you to. (And no, I'm not getting paid to endorce this.)

Anyway, the No-Bake Icebox Cake serves 8 to 12, and can be viewed online by clicking here.

2 pounds fresh strawberries, washed and patted dry

3 3/4 cups heavy cream, divided

1/3 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon rosewater, optional

4 sleeves (about 19 ounces, or 24 to 28 whole crackers) graham crackers

2 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped

Take out a few of the best-looking strawberries and set them aside for the garnish. Hull the remainder of the strawberries and cut each berry into thin slices.

With a hand mixer or in the bowl of a stand mixer, whip 3 1/2 cups of cream until it just holds stiff peaks. Add the confectioners sugar, vanilla, and rosewater (if using) and whip to combine.

Spread a small spoonful of whipped cream on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan, or a similarly sized platter. Lay down 6 graham crackers. Lightly cover the top of the graham crackers with more whipped cream, and then a single layer of strawberries. Repeat 3 times, until you have 4 layers of graham crackers. Spread the last of the whipped cream over the top and swirl it lightly with a spoon. Add a few more strawberries.

To make the ganache, heat the remaining 1/4 cup cream until bubbles form around the edges, then pour over the chopped chocolate. Let it stand for a few minutes, then whisk until the mixture is thick and glossy.

Drizzle this over the layered dessert with a spoon, or transfer to a squeeze bottle and use that to drizzle.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the crackers have softened completely. Garnish with additional berries.

Recipe Notes

Building the cake on a platter instead of in a pan: You can build this cake in a 9x13-inch pan as I mention above, or you can build it up on a platter as shown here. Either way works nicely. The 9x13-inch pan makes it easier to transport the cake, but if you're staying at home, the platter makes it look a little fancier. You don't need to do anything differently when building it on a platter. I do, though, like to smear a bit of cream on the bottom of each cracker as I add it to the stack to keep it steady and in place.

ALMOND JOY

This yummy recipe comes from the April 2005 issue of Vegetarian Times. While I love most of the recipes I find in Vegetarian Times, some of them really stand out, as far as I'm concerned; this is one of them. It begins, “As delicious as a candy bar, this delicate dessert whips up in an instant. Use prepared chocolate syrup to garnish the cake. If you really want to fancy it up, make your own fudge sauce, and drizzle it on before serving.” Serves 8 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

1 14-oz. premade angel food cake

2 12-oz. pkg. soft silken tofu

4 Tbs. confectioners’ sugar

1 Tbs. almond extract, or to taste

1 8-oz. pkg. almond paste

2 cups sliced almonds, toasted, for garnish

Chocolate syrup, as desired

Tear angel food cake into about 2×4-inch rectangles, and put about half of them into 3-quart serving dish.

Put tofu, sugar, almond extract and almond paste into blender or food processor, and purée until smooth. Pour half mixture over cake pieces, and top with remaining cake. Pour remaining mixture over cake, and garnish with almonds and drizzles of chocolate syrup. Chill, or serve immediately.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 470; Protein: 15 g; Total Fat: 23 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 53 g; Sodium: 380 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 16 g

SIMPLEST TOMATO, CORN, BASIL AND MOZZARELLA PASTA SALAD

This comes from Katie Workman, About.com's Cooking for Kids expert. She writes, “One of the things I need to constantly remind myself of, and relearn and relearn is the art of NOT adding one more thing to a recipe. It’s often so tempting – there’s that jar of artichoke hearts! There’s that leftover tapenade! It’s not that these ingredients wouldn’t be welcome in the dish…it’s that the dish is just perfectly awesome without them.

“There is no better time to re-establish this important rule of cooking than the middle of summer. Tomatoes. Corn. Basil. Hard stop. And so, I fought the urge to throw another half dozen ingredients into this pasta salad, contenting myself with some fresh mozzarella and a light balsamic olive oil dressing. And oh, my dears, if this Tomato, Corn, Basil and Mozzarella Pasta Salad isn’t summertime eating at its finest, I don’t know what is.

“There is nothing like a fresh picked tomato from the garden. Any tomato lover worth their salt (and p.s. a sliced tomato sprinkled with salt is one of the best meals ever, full stop) know the flavor of a store bought tomato is incomparable to that of the freshly grown tomato. So if you have garden tomatoes, this is the recipe to make use of them! If you don't have a back yard bounty of tomatoes, head to a farmers' market, or these days many supermarkets carry local tomatoes, so we can all enjoy tomatoes as they should taste. However you get them, this fresh, herby pasta salad will not disappoint.” While this is definitely worth remembering when cooking for kids, there are many times when adults could enjoy simplicity in foods; this is one of those times!

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Yield: Serves 6 – 8.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 pounds dried pasta, any chunky shape

4 ears fresh corn, shucked

6 cups cubed ripe tomatoes

1 pounds fresh mozzarella, diced

1/2 cups slivered fresh basil leaves

1/3 cups cup extra virgin olive oil

6 cloves roasted garlic (see Cooking Tip)

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Kosher or coarse salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Preparation

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Generously salt the water and return to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions. During the last two minutes of cooking add the ears of corn. When you drain the pasta, take out the ears of corn and let cool. Quickly rinse the pasta in cool water to stop the cooking, drain well, and turn into a serving bowl.

Remove the corn from the cobs with a knife. Add the corn, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to the pasta.

In a small container combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper and sake to combine. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss well to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings (be generous with the salt). Serve at room temperature.

CONFETTI CORN

This simple and yummy recipe comes from The Food Network's Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa. Personally, I wouldn't mind having dinner at her place!

Total Time: 30 min; Prep: 15 min; Cook: 15 min; Yield: 6 servings; Level: Easy

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/confetti-corn-recipe4.print.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

2 tablespoons good olive oil

1/2 cup chopped red onion

1 small orange bell pepper, 1/2-inch diced

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Kernels cut from 5 ears yellow or white corn (4 cups)

1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons julienned fresh basil, minced fresh chives, and/or minced fresh parsley leaves

Directions

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large saute pan. Add the onion and saute for 5 minutes, until the onion is soft. Stir in the bell pepper and saute for 2 more minutes.



Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt. Over medium heat, add the corn, salt, and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes, until the corn just loses its starchiness. Season to taste, gently stir in the basil or other green herbs, and serve hot.

EASY ITALIAN FRITTATA

I discovered frittatas several years ago and fell in love with them. This wonderful one is from Kathy Kingsley, About.com's American Food expert. She writes, “This delicious potato, bell pepper, and olive frittata is perfect for your next brunch, and guests will never know how easy it was go make. Serve it warm or at room temperature. It also makes a quick weeknight dinner.”

Prep time: 10 minutes; Cook time: 40 minutes; total time: 50 minutes; serves 4 to 6.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 large Yukon Gold or russet potato, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1 1/2 cups)

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

1 medium red bell pepper, cored, seed and chopped

1 small zucchini, trimmed, halved lengthwise and sliced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried

6 large eggs

1/3 cup pitted, chopped black olives, such as kalamata (optional)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/3 cup shredded Fontina cheese

2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a large 12-inch ovenproof nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium heat. Layer half of the potato, onion, bell pepper, and zucchini in the skillet. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Repeat with the remaining potato, onion, and bell pepper, and season again. Cover and cook, stirring and turning frequently with a spatula until tender, about 20 minutes. Sprinkle the thyme over the mixture. Let cool slightly.

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs to blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir in the olives,if desired, and then add the potato mixture to the eggs, stirring to blend.

Wipe the skillet clean, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and warm over medium-low heat. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, and sprinkle with the Parmesan and Fontina cheese.

Cook, drawing eggs away from the sides and bottom of the pan with a heatproof spatula so that the uncooked egg runs underneath. When the mixture is loosely set around the edges, place pan in the oven, and bake until puffed and completely set, about 20 minutes.

Remove the pan from the oven and slide out onto a serving plate. Sprinkle the parsley. Cut into wedges and serve.

VEGETABLE FRITTATA

This comes from Elaine Lemm, About.com's British & Irish Food expert. She writes, “Vegetable Frittata makes a super-quick, delicious supper dish It may not be a classic British food but it is one that is much-loved here.

“Frittata can be eaten warm with a side salad, or left to cool and makes a great lunch-box treat or for sliced for picnics and parties.

“For a Frittata you can use any cooked vegetables you have to hand or to use up which makes it a surprisingly cheap dish. My favorites are cold diced potato, peppers, courgettes (zucchini), and shredded leeks. The frittata is your palette to create whatever flavors you like.”

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Yield: Serves 4

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, peeled and finely sliced

2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced

9 oz mixed, diced, cooked vegetables of your choice

1 cup cavolo nero or spring cabbage, shredded

6 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 tbsp flat leaf parsley, finely chopped

4 oz soft goats' cheese, crumbled

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Heat 1 tbsp of the olive oil in a 9 in/23cm frying pan and cook the onion on a low heat for about 5 minutes until soft. Add the garlic, stir, then add the cooked vegetables and cabbage. Cook for a further 2 mins.

Season the beaten eggs with a twist of black pepper and a little salt, tip the eggs into the cooked vegetables in the frying pan and stir. Add the parsley and stir well.

Turn the heat down to low and cook until the sides and center of the omlette is barely set. Turn the frittata onto a large plate, then transfer back to the frying pan uncooked side down.

Sprinkle the goats cheese over and cook for a further 5 minutes (alternatively transfer the frittata to the grill and cook for 10 minutes) or until the frittata is golden and firm.

Remove from the heat, and leave to cool slightly. Cut into wedges and serve with a green salad.

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Week Day Meals - Wednesday

It's the middle of the week already. Where does the time go? No matter, here are today's recipes. Enjoy!

BARBECUED CHINESE CHICKEN LETTUCE WRAPS

This comes from Rachael Ray of The Food Network's popular 30 Minute Meals. Total Time: 25 min; Prep: 15 min; Cook: 10 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Easy

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/barbecued-chinese-chicken-lettuce-wraps-recipe.print.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

2 cups, 4 handfuls, fresh shiitake mushrooms

1 1/3 to 1 1/2 pounds thin cut chicken breast or chicken tenders

2 tablespoons light colored oil, such as vegetable oil or peanut oil

Coarse salt and coarse black pepper

3 cloves garlic, chopped

1 inch ginger root, finely chopped or grated, optional

1 orange, zested

1/2 red bell pepper, diced small

1 small tin, 6 to 8 ounces, sliced water chestnuts, drained and chopped

3 scallions, chopped

3 tablespoons hoisin, Chinese barbecue sauce, available on Asian foods aisle of market

1/2 large head iceberg lettuce, core removed, head quartered

Wedges of navel orange -- platter garnish

Directions

Remove tough stems from mushrooms and brush with damp towel to clean, Slice mushrooms. Chop chicken into small pieces.

Preheat a large skillet or wok to high.

Add oil to hot pan. Add chicken to the pan and sear meat by stir frying a minute or 2. Add mushrooms and cook another minute or two. Add salt and pepper to season, then garlic and ginger. Cook a minute more. Grate zest into pan, add bell pepper bits, chopped water chestnuts and scallions. Cook another minute, continuing to stir fry mixture. Add hoisin Chinese barbecue sauce and toss to coat the mixture evenly. Transfer the hot chopped barbecued chicken to serving platter and pile the quartered wedges of crisp iceberg lettuce along side. Add wedged oranges to platter to garnish. To eat, pile spoonfuls into lettuce leaves, wrapping lettuce around fillings and squeeze an orange wedge over.

VEGETABLE FRITTATA

This comes from Elaine Lemm, About.com's British & Irish Food expert. She writes, “Vegetable Frittata makes a super-quick, delicious supper dish It may not be a classic British food but it is one that is much-loved here.

“Frittata can be eaten warm with a side salad, or left to cool and makes a great lunch-box treat or for sliced for picnics and parties.

“For a Frittata you can use any cooked vegetables you have to hand or to use up which makes it a surprisingly cheap dish. My favorites are cold diced potato, peppers, courgettes (zucchini), and shredded leeks. The frittata is your palette to create whatever flavors you like.”

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Yield: Serves 4

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, peeled and finely sliced

2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced

9 oz mixed, diced, cooked vegetables of your choice

1 cup cavolo nero or spring cabbage, shredded

6 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 tbsp flat leaf parsley, finely chopped

4 oz soft goats' cheese, crumbled

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Heat 1 tbsp of the olive oil in a 9 in/23cm frying pan and cook the onion on a low heat for about 5 minutes until soft. Add the garlic, stir, then add the cooked vegetables and cabbage. Cook for a further 2 mins.

Season the beaten eggs with a twist of black pepper and a little salt, tip the eggs into the cooked vegetables in the frying pan and stir. Add the parsley and stir well.

Turn the heat down to low and cook until the sides and center of the omlette is barely set. Turn the frittata onto a large plate, then transfer back to the frying pan uncooked side down.

Sprinkle the goats cheese over and cook for a further 5 minutes (alternatively transfer the frittata to the grill and cook for 10 minutes) or until the frittata is golden and firm.

Remove from the heat, and leave to cool slightly. Cut into wedges and serve with a green salad.

ICED MOCHA SHERBET

Yield: 4 servings

Source: Light and Easy Diabetes Cuisine

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/24.shtml

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/576.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups evaporated non-fat milk

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 tablespoons carob powder

1 tablespoon crystalline fructose

2 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate

1 tablespoon instant coffee granules

1 tablespoon part-skim ricotta cheese

Directions

Mix all ingredients together in blender and turn into metal trays. Place in freezer and stir with fork from time to time to break up ice crystals. When ready to serve, process again so the sherbet is soft.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 121, Cholesterol: 5 mg, Carbohydrate: 22 g, Protein: 8 g, Sodium: 117 mg, Fat: 0.5 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Milk, 1/2 Fruit

STUFFED PEPPERS

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/238.shtml

Servings: 8

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers, any color or combination

1 teaspoon olive oil

2 medium tomatoes, chopped (about 1-1/2 cups)

1 medium crookneck squash, diced (about 2 cups)

1 medium zucchini, diced (about 2 cups)

1/2 cup diced onion (1 medium)

2 medium cloves garlic, minced, or 1 tsp bottled minced garlic

2 cups cooked brown rice (1/2 to 2/3 cup uncooked)

1/2 cup grated fat-free or low-fat Cheddar cheese (2 ounces)

1/4 cup sliced water chestnuts (2 ounces)

1 cup no-salt-added tomato juice

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Cut peppers in half lengthwise, removing stems, ribs, and seeds. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, swirling to coat bottom. Saute tomatoes, crookneck squash, zucchini, onion, and garlic until zucchini is tender-crisp, 3 to 4 minutes. Don't overcook.

In a medium bowl, combine rice, cheese, and water chestnuts. Gently stir into skillet. Stuff pepper halves with vegetable mixture. Place in 9-inch round or square casserole dish, then carefully pour tomato juice around peppers. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 119; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 68 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Carbohydrates: 23 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Low-Fat Milk, 2 Vegetable

CURRY ROASTED CAULIFLOWER

This comes from One Green Planet's newsletter. It starts off, “Curry Roasted Cauliflower is a super easy and delicious side diesh. It is ready in less than 30 minutes from start to finish and it is also gluten-free, vegan, and paleo!” Serves 4; Cook Time: 20 minutes

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 head cauliflower cut into bite size pieces (roughly 4 cups)

2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted

1 Tbsp lemon juice

1 Tbsp curry powder

1/ 4 tsp salt

Preparation

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

Place all ingredients in big bowl and toss to coat evenly.

Spread cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.

SIMPLY DIVINE TANGERINE PUDDING

This comes from the Authentic Florida newsletter. It starts off, “Nothing tastes like Florida as much as citrus - especially tangy, sweet fresh tangerines. Florida's tangerines are generally more pungent and intense than its cousin, the orange and this recipe is a perfect complement to any meal.

”I use fresh tangerines with this recipe, but if you have only fresh bottled juice, it could work as well.” Cooking time: 30 minutes; Refrigerator Time: 2 hours; Yields: 4 servings. Recipe adapted from Southern Living

To view this online, click here.

About the Author: Robin Draper is a Florida native and blogger devoted to the simple and delightful pleasures for Florida living.

Ingredients

1/2 cup sugar

3 tablespoons cornstarch

1/4 tsp. table salt

2 cups, fresh Florida tangerine juice – (juice 10 small tangerines or 8 medium tangerines OR Use fresh bottled juice)

+ 3 tangerines (for peeling and using sections)

3 large eggs, room temperature

3 tablespoons butter

2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (1/2 lemon)

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whipped Cream:

1 pint of heavy whipping cream

1 teaspoon of vanilla

2 tablespoons of sugar

4 sprigs of mint

Directions

Early Steps:

Juice the tangerines for 2 cups of juice.

With an extra tangerine, using a vegetable peeler, slice 1/2 inch of the outer tangerine peel.

In a bowl, beat 3 eggs until frothy (in a mixer, or using a whisk) around 3-4 minutes. Set aside.

Cooking Steps:

In a medium saucepan, whisk together dry ingredients: 1/2 cup sugar, 3 tablespoons cornstarch and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Turn on stove to medium-low heat, place pan on stovetop, and begin adding the 2 cups of tangerine juice. Stir until smooth, eliminating any lumps.

Add 1/2 inch tangerine peel into the warm mixture. Continue heating mixture stirring occasionally.

Next, bring mixture to a simmering boil and whisk constantly for around 1-2 minutes. Mixture should become thick and bubbly. Remove from heat. It will become thick and pudding-like, coating the back of a spoon. (If it takes longer, continue stirrring until thickened.)

Take 1/4 cup of the hot mixture and add to the set-aside egg mixture, continue whisking another 2 minutes.

Take the bowl of the remaining egg mixture and place in the hot pan. Turn heat on low to medium again and stir constantly for 2 more minutes.

Final Steps:

Pour the hot mixture from the pan into a medium sized bowl. Stir in 3 tablespoons of butter, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Place plastic wrap directly on the warm pudding, so no film is created.

Chill for 2 hours. If desired, remove peel from the pudding.

Add whipped cream, tangerine sections and sprig of mint.

Whipped Cream:

Mix 1 cup of heavy, whipping cream in a mixer on high speed with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla.

Top with a sprig of mint.