The Make Again List

Allspice Crumb Muffins

2011-11-21T15:45:00.000-05:00

Makes 12 muffins

For the Streusel:
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup light brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground allspice
5 Tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into bits

For the Muffins:
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup light brown sugar
1 stick (8 Tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 large eggs
¾ cup whole milk
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Center a rack in the oven and preheat oven to 375 degrees
F. Butter or spray the 12 molds in a regular-size muffin pan or line with paper
cups. Place the muffin pan on a baking sheet.

2. To make the streusel, put the flour, brown sugar, and
allspice in a small bowl and whisk to combine. Add the bits of cold butter and
toss, pinching the mixture between your fingers, until you have pea-sized
crumbs. Set aside in the refrigerator. (The streusel can be made up to 3 days
ahead and stored, covered, in the refrigerator.)

3. To make the muffins, in a large bowl whisk together the
flour, granulated sugar, allspice, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the brown
sugar, making certain there are no lumps. In a large glass measuring cup or
another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk and vanilla extract until
well combined. Pour the liquid ingredients over the dry ingredients and with
the whisk or a rubber spatula, gently but quickly stir to blend. The batter
will be lumpy; that is how it should be.

4. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Sprinkle
streusel over each muffin, then use your fingertips to gently press the crumbs
into the batter.

5. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden
and a thin knife inserted into the center of the muffins comes out clean.
Transfer the pan to a wire rack and cool for 5 minutes before carefully
removing each muffin. Cool completely on the wire rack. Muffins can be stored,
in an airtight container, at room temperature for up to 5 days.

-- Adapted from Baking: From My Home to Yours by Dorie
Greenspan and the blog, Annie's Eats

Spicy Sweet Potato Pancakes

2011-11-19T21:24:00.004-05:00

Ingredients:

2 1/3 c. Bisquick

1/3 c. canned sweet potato (could use pumpkin instead)

1 1/4 c. milk

2 eggs

1/4 c. vegetable oil

2 T. sugar

1/4 t. ground cinnamon

1/4 t. ground nutmeg

1/4 t. ground ginger

Heat griddle to 375 degrees. Stir all ingredients together until blended.

Spray griddle with nonstick spray. Pour appx. 1/4 c. batter onto hot griddle.

Cook until edges are dry. Turn. Cook until golden brown.

--Adapted from Betty Crocker's Quick and Easy Cookbook

Three Bean Soup with Chard and Roasted Garlic

2011-10-15T14:27:00.002-04:00

1 whole garlic head
1 (15.5-ounce) can Great Northern beans, rinsed, drained, and divided
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh sage
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 cups chopped chard (about 1 pound)
4 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
2 cups jarred pasta sauce
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can pink beans, rinsed and drained
6 tablespoons grated fresh Parmesan cheese
Sage sprigs (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°.

Remove white papery skin from garlic head (do not peel or separate the cloves). Wrap head in foil. Bake at 350° for 45 minutes; cool 10 minutes. Separate cloves; squeeze to extract garlic pulp. Discard skins. Combine garlic pulp and 1/4 cup Great Northern beans; mash with a fork until pastelike. Stir in chopped sage; set aside.

Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chard to pan; cook 3 minutes or until chard wilts, stirring frequently.

Add remaining Great Northern beans, broth, and next 4 ingredients (through pink beans); bring to a simmer. Reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until escarole is tender.

Stir in garlic mixture; remove from heat. Cover and let stand 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with cheese. Garnish with sage sprigs, if desired.

--Adapted from Cooking Light

Spicy Snow Peas

2011-10-15T14:25:00.001-04:00

Heat 1 teaspoon canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound snow peas and 1/4 teaspoon salt; sauté for 2 minutes.

Stir in 2 teaspoons bottled minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper; sauté 1 minute.

Stir in 1/4 teaspoon sugar; sauté 1 minute. Remove from heat; drizzle with 1/2 teaspoon dark sesame oil.

--Adapted from Cooking Light

Hoisin-Glazed Salmon

2011-10-15T14:24:00.001-04:00

2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon dark sesame oil
4 (6-ounce) skinless wild salmon fillets
Cooking spray
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Lemon rind strips (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 400°.

2. Combine first 3 ingredients in a shallow dish. Add fish to dish, turning to coat. Marinate at room temperature 8 minutes, turning occasionally.

3. Remove fish from marinade; discard marinade. Place fish on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle fish evenly with sesame seeds. Bake at 400° for 8 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Garnish with rind, if desired.

--Adapted from Real Simple

Chicken with White Beans and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

2011-10-15T14:20:00.002-04:00

2 15.5-ounce cans cannellini beans, rinsed
1/4 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 sprigs fresh oregano, plus leaves for garnish
2 garlic cloves, smashed
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
kosher salt and black pepper
8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Heat oven to 425° F.

In a 9-by-13-inch (or some other large) baking dish, toss the beans and tomatoes with the thyme and oregano sprigs, garlic, red pepper, 1 tablespoon of the oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Pat the chicken dry and place on top of the bean mixture, skin-side up. Rub with the remaining tablespoon of oil; season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.

Roast until the chicken is golden and cooked through, 25 to 35 minutes. Sprinkle with the oregano leaves.

--Adapted from Real Simple

Spicy Pork and Soba Noodles

2011-10-15T14:17:00.001-04:00

6 ounces soba noodles
1 1 1/4-pound pork tenderloin, thinly sliced
kosher salt and black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 English cucumber, sliced
2 scallions, chopped
1 red chili pepper, sliced
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil

Cook the soba noodles according to the package directions.

Season the pork with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. In batches, brown the pork, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a large bowl. Toss the pork with the noodles, cucumber, scallions, chili pepper, vinegar, sesame oil, and ½ teaspoon salt.

--Adapted from Real Simple

Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

2011-10-15T14:14:00.001-04:00

1 (6.2-ounce) package fast-cooking long-grain and wild rice mix
2 (10 1/2-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth
1 (8-ounce) package fresh mushroom slices
3 cups chopped cooked chicken
2/3 cup Italian dressing
1 (8-ounce) container sour cream

Cook rice in a large saucepan according to package directions, using 2 cans chicken broth instead of water. Add mushrooms before the last 5 minutes.

Stir in chicken, dressing, and sour cream; spoon into a lightly greased 2-quart baking dish.

Bake at 325° for 30 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Let stand 10 minutes.

--Adapted from Southern Living

2011-10-15T14:10:00.001-04:00

3 1/2 to 4-pound sirloin tip roast
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup soy sauce
12 hoagie buns, split
12 slices Swiss cheese

Place roast in a 5-quart slow cooker. Stir together broth and next 4 ingredients and pour over roast.

Cover and cook on high setting one hour; reduce heat to low setting and cook 9 hours.

Remove roast from slow cooker, reserving broth; shred roast with 2 forks. Place shredded meat evenly on hoagie buns and top with Swiss cheese. Serve with reserved broth for dipping.

--Adapted from Southern Living

Asparagus Prosciutto Bundles with Arugula

2011-10-15T14:05:00.002-04:00

Very tasty appetizer.

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1/2 pound thin asparagus (about 24 spears), ends trimmed about 2 inches
Sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
2 cups loosely packed arugula leaves, washed, drained, and stems removed
Juice of 1 medium lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
3/4 cup (3 ounces) pecorino cheese, half shaved into thin slices and half grated
12 thin slices prosciutto (about 6 ounces)

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

2. Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil and vinegar over asparagus; toss lightly to coat. Season with sea salt and pepper.

3. Grill asparagus, uncovered, at medium-high heat, turning often, 4 minutes or until spears are tender, turn bright green, and begin to char slightly. Remove from grill, and set aside.

4. Toss arugula with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice, and grated cheese. Season with sea salt and pepper.

5. Place 4 slices of prosciutto flat on a work surface, and top each with 2 asparagus spears, 4 to 5 arugula leaves, and 1 slice of pecorino; roll into a spiral, leaving spears and tips of arugula showing. Repeat procedure with remaining ingredients.

--Adapted from Cooking Light

Royal Icing

2011-08-23T12:59:00.001-04:00

Ingredients:
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 tbsp. meringue powder
5 tbsp. water

Combine all ingredients in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on low speed until the sheen has disappeared and the icing has a matte appearance (about 7-10 minutes). Transfer the contents of the mixing bowl to an air-tight container. This will be the stiffest consistency of the icing, and at this point it is still too stiff to use for decorating. Add water a very small amount at a time and stir by hand until fully incorporated. Continue until the icing has reached a consistency appropriate for piping. (Remember, if you are having any difficulty piping, it is still too thick. Add a little more liquid and try again.) Using a pastry bag, pipe around the edges of each cookie. Let stand so the icing will set. Make sure to keep the leftover icing covered at all times when not in use so that it does not begin to harden.

Once all the cookies have been edged, transfer some of the remaining icing to a separate air-tight container. Thin out by incorporating a small amount of water at a time, until the icing drips off the spoon easily when lifted and then smooths in with that still in the bowl. If you go too far and the icing is too thin, add more sifted powdered sugar to thicken it again. Once the icing has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to a squeeze bottle (or a plastic bag with a hole in one corner), and flood the area surrounded by the piping on each cookie. If it does not completely spread to the edges, use a toothpick to help it along. Allow to set.

Use the remaining thicker icing for piping decoration as desired. Gel icing color is best as it does not add a significant amount of liquid. Liquid food coloring can be used as well – add powdered sugar as needed to compensate for any thinning that occurs.

--Adapted from Katie of Good Things Catered

Sugar Cookies

2011-08-23T12:50:00.001-04:00

Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon milk
Powdered sugar, for rolling out dough

Directions
Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Place butter and sugar in large bowl of electric stand mixer and beat until light in color. Add egg and milk and beat to combine. Put mixer on low speed, gradually add flour, and beat until mixture pulls away from the side of the bowl. Divide the dough in half, wrap in waxed paper, and refrigerate for 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Sprinkle surface where you will roll out dough with powdered sugar. Remove 1 wrapped pack of dough from refrigerator at a time, sprinkle rolling pin with powdered sugar, and roll out dough to 1/4-inch thick. Move the dough around and check underneath frequently to make sure it is not sticking. If dough has warmed during rolling, place cold cookie sheet on top for 10 minutes to chill. Cut into desired shape, place at least 1-inch apart on greased baking sheet, parchment, or silicone baking mat, and bake for 7 to 9 minutes or until cookies are just beginning to turn brown around the edges, rotating cookie sheet halfway through baking time. Let sit on baking sheet for 2 minutes after removal from oven and then move to complete cooling on wire rack. Serve as is or ice as desired. Store in airtight container for up to 1 week.

--Adapted from Alton Brown

Chocolate Mint Bars

2011-08-07T22:00:00.001-04:00

Ingredients:

Bottom layer:
1 cup all-purpose flour (about 4 1/2 ounces)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup egg substitute
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs, beaten
1 (16-ounce) can chocolate syrup
Cooking spray
Mint layer:
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 tablespoons fat-free milk
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 drops green food coloring
Glaze:
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
3 tablespoons butter

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°.
To prepare bottom layer, lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour and salt; stir with a whisk. Combine granulated sugar, egg substitute, 1/4 cup melted butter, 2 tablespoons water, vanilla, eggs, and chocolate syrup in a medium bowl; stir until smooth. Add flour mixture to chocolate mixture, stirring until blended. Pour batter into a 13 x 9–inch baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 23 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out almost clean. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack.
To prepare mint layer, combine powdered sugar, 1/4 cup melted butter, and next 3 ingredients (through food coloring) in a medium bowl; beat with a mixer until smooth. Spread mint mixture over cooled cake.
To prepare the glaze, combine the chocolate chips and 3 tablespoons butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at HIGH 1 minute or until melted, stirring after 30 seconds. Let stand 2 minutes. Spread chocolate mixture evenly over top. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Cut into 20 pieces.

Megan Patterson, Cooking Light
MARCH 2008

Marshmallow Fondant

2011-08-07T21:56:00.003-04:00

Ingredients:
1/4 c. butter
1 16-oz. package of miniature marshmallows
4 T. water
1 t. vanilla extract
2 pounds, confectioners' sugar, divided

Place the butter in a shallow bowl, and set aside.

Place the marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl, and microwave on High for 30 seconds to 1 minute to start melting the marshmallows. Carefully stir the vanilla and water into the hot marshmallows, and stir until the mixture is smooth. Slowly beat in the confectioners' sugar, a cup at a time, until you have a sticky dough. Reserve 1 cup of powdered sugar for kneading. The dough will be very stiff.

Rub your hands thoroughly with butter, and begin kneading the sticky dough. As you knead, the dough will become workable and pliable. Turn the dough out onto a working surface dusted with powdered sugar and continue kneading until the fondant is smooth and no longer sticky to the touch, 5 to 10 minutes.

Form the fondant into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. To use, allow the fondant to come to room temperature, and roll it out onto a flat surface dusted with confectioners' sugar.

--From All Recipes, submitted by Kiele Briscoe

The Chewy

2011-08-07T21:51:00.002-04:00

Ingredients:
2 sticks butter
2 1/4 c. bread flour
1 t. kosher salt
1 t. baking soda
1/4 c. sugar
1 1/4 c. brown sugar
1 egg
1 egg yolk
2 T. milk
1 1/2 t. vanilla extract
2 c. semisweet chocolate chips

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Melt the butter in a heavy-bottom saucepan over low heat. Sift together the flour, salt, and baking soda and set aside.

Pour the melted butter in the mixer's work bowl. Add the sugar and brown sugar. Cream the butter and sugars on medium speed. Add the egg, yolk, 2 tablespoons milk and vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Slowly incorporate the flour mixture until thoroughly combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.

Chill the dough, then scoop onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 14 minutes or until golden brown, checking the cookies after 5 minutes. Rotate the baking sheet for even browning. Cool completely and store in an airtight container.

--From Alton Brown

Neopolitan Layer Cake

2011-08-07T21:49:00.001-04:00

Ingredients:
For the chocolate cake:
¾ cup plus 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
6 tbsp. dark cocoa powder
1 tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. salt
1 cup sugar
¼ cup vegetable or canola oil
1 large egg
½ cup black coffee
½ cup buttermilk
1½ tsp. vanilla extract

For the white cake:
2 large egg whites
1¾ cup all-purpose flour
1½ tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. salt
1 cup sugar
8 tbsp. unsalted butter, at room temperature
¾ cup very cold water
½ tsp. vanilla extract
¼ tsp. almond extract

For the strawberry cake:
1¼ cups plus 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
1¼ tsp. baking powder
¼ tsp. salt
1 cup sugar
1½ oz. strawberry gelatin
8 tbsp. unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
1½ tsp. vanilla extract
¼ cup sweetened strawberry puree*

For the filling:
Easy vanilla buttercream or good quality strawberry jam

For the strawberry buttercream frosting:
1½ cups fresh strawberries (8 oz.), rinsed, hulled and coarsely chopped*
4 large egg whites
1¼ cups sugar
3 sticks (1½ cups) unsalted butter, at room temperature

*To make the strawberry puree, process partially thawed frozen strawberries with a bit of sugar in a blender or food processor until smooth. If using sweetened frozen strawberries, no additional sugar is necessary.

Directions:
To make the chocolate cake, butter and flour the edges of a 9-inch round pan, shaking out the excess flour. Line the bottom with a round of parchment. In a small bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder and salt; whisk to blend and set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the sugar, vegetable oil and egg. Beat on medium speed until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. With the mixer on low speed, blend in half of the dry ingredients, beating just until incorporated. Blend in the coffee, buttermilk and vanilla just until smooth. Beat in the remaining dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.

Preheat the oven to 350˚ F. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake, rotating halfway through, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 35 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Run a knife around the edges, then turn the cake out onto the rack and let cool completely.

To make the white cake, butter and flour the edges of a 9-inch round pan, shaking out the excess flour. Line the bottom with a round of parchment. In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt; whisk to blend and set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Increase speed to medium high and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Transfer the egg whites to another bowl and set aside. In the bowl of the electric mixer now fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the sugar and butter, and beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, 2-3 minutes. With the mixer on low speed, beat in half of the dry ingredients just until incorporated. Blend in the water, vanilla and almond extracts. Beat in the remaining dry ingredients just until incorporated. With a silicone spatula, stir in about a quarter of the egg whites to lighten the batter. Gently fold in the remaining egg whites, until the batter is smooth and no streaks remain.

To make the strawberry cake, butter and flour the edges of a 9-inch round pan, shaking out the excess flour. Line the bottom with a round of parchment. In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt; whisk to blend and set aside. Combine the sugar, strawberry gelatin and butter in the bowl of an electric mixer. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat the eggs into the sugar mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. With the mixer on low speed, add half of the dry ingredients to the batter and mix just until incorporated. Blend in the milk and vanilla extract. Add in the remaining dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Blend in the strawberry puree.

To make the frosting, place the strawberries in a food processor or blender. Puree until completely smooth. Combine the egg whites and sugar in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Heat, whisking frequently, until the mixture reaches 160° F and the sugar has dissolved.

Transfer the mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer** fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form and the mixture has cooled to room temperature, about 8 minutes. (The bowl should be cool to the touch.)

Reduce the speed to medium and add the butter, 2 tablespoons at a time, adding more once each addition has been incorporated. If the frosting looks soupy or curdled, continue to beat on medium-high speed until thick and smooth again, about 3-5 minutes more (or longer – don’t worry, it will come together!) Blend in the strawberry puree until smooth and completely incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

To assemble the cake, torte each of the cake layers horizontally into two thin halves. Place one of the chocolate layers on a cake board or cake platter. Top with a very thin layer of the vanilla buttercream or strawberry jam. Place a layer of the strawberry cake on top. Again, cover with a thin layer of vanilla buttercream or strawberry jam. Top with a layer of the white cake. Cover with a thin layer of the vanilla buttercream or strawberry jam. Repeat the process with the remaining layers of chocolate and strawberry cake. (For a taller cake, you can use the remaining layer of white cake. Otherwise, you can wrap tightly and save for later use or discard.) Frost the top and sides of the cake with the strawberry buttercream. Transfer remaining buttercream to a pastry bag fitted with a decorative tip for detailing as desired.

Source: adapted from the blog, Annie's Eats and Sweetapolita

Fruit Cobbler

2011-08-07T21:43:00.004-04:00

Ingredients:
1 stick butter
3/4 c. sugar
3/4 c. all-purpose flour
3/4 c. milk
sliced fruit

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Melt butter in 9 x 13 casserole dish in oven. Stir in sugar and flour and mix until well combined. Stir in milk. Once combined, sprinkle fruit over mixture. Bake for 30-45 minutes.

--Adapted from Nona's Kitchen

Pasta with Proscuitto and Parmesan

2011-03-20T10:54:00.002-04:00

2 cups uncooked fusilli (corkscrew) pasta
2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
1 package (8 oz) sliced fresh mushrooms
6 medium green onions, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium red bell pepper, coarsely chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 package (3 oz) thinly sliced prosciutto or smoked ham, cut into thin strips
1 tablespoon chopped fresh or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves
2 teaspoons chopped fresh or 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (1 oz)

Cook and drain pasta as directed on package.

Meanwhile, in 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat. Cook mushrooms, onions, bell pepper and garlic in oil 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.

Stir in prosciutto, basil, oregano and salt. Stir in pasta and remaining 1 tablespoon oil; toss. Sprinkle each serving with cheese.

--Adapted from Betty Crocker Quick and Easy Cookbook

Mushroom and Cheddar Tarts

2011-03-20T10:49:00.002-04:00

1 sheet puff pastry (half a 17.3-ounce package), thawed
4 tablespoons olive oil
10 ounces assorted mushrooms (such as button, cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
1 shallot, sliced
kosher salt and black pepper
1/4 cup dry white wine
4 ounces sharp white Cheddar, grated (1 cup)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
4 ounces mixed greens (6 cups)
2 radishes, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

Heat oven to 400° F. Unfold the pastry and cut it into 4 squares. Place the squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet and, using a fork, prick the dough all over.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and shallot and season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook, tossing occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the wine and cook until nearly evaporated, about 1 minute more.

Dividing evenly, sprinkle the pastry squares with half the cheese, leaving a ½-inch border on each. Top with the mushroom mixture and remaining cheese. Bake until the pastry is golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.

In a large bowl, whisk together the mustard, vinegar, the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Add the greens and radishes and toss to coat. Serve the tarts with the salad and sprinkle with the chives.

--Adapted from Real Simple magazine

Sausage and Chard Saute with cheese grits

2011-03-20T10:45:00.001-04:00

2 tablespoons olive oil
8 small Italian sausage links (about 1 1/2 pounds total)
1 cup instant polenta
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, sliced
1 bunch Swiss chard, stems discarded and leaves cut into 1-inch strips
kosher salt and black pepper

Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Cook the grits according to the package directions, stirring in the Parmesan when done.

Meanwhile, wipe out the skillet and heat the remaining tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring for 1 minute. Add the Swiss chard, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper and cook, tossing, until wilted, 3 to 4 minutes. Fold in the sliced sausage. Serve the sausage and chard mixture over the grits.

--Adapted from Real Simple magazine

Hangar Steak with Arugula and Balsamic Mushrooms

2011-03-20T10:41:00.002-04:00

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 pound hangar steak
kosher salt and black pepper
1 teaspoon herbes de provence
1 pound cremini or butter mushrooms, quartered
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 bunches arugula, thick stems removed (about 6 cups)
4 scallions, thinly sliced

Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with herbes de provence, salt and pepper.

Cook steak to the desired doneness, 5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let rest at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Wipe out the skillet and heat the remaining tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook, tossing occasionally, until tender and browned, 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in the vinegar. Remove from heat and stir in the cream. Fold in the arugula. Divide the arugula, steak, and mushrooms among plates and sprinkle with the scallions.

--Adapted from Real Simple magazine

Pastrami-style Salmon

2011-03-20T10:37:00.001-04:00

1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1 (1 1/2-pound) center-cut salmon fillet or 4 individual filets/steaks
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
Cooking spray

Prepare grill.

Combine first 7 ingredients. Place salmon fillet, skin side down, on a cutting board or work surface; brush evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle spice mixture evenly over salmon; gently rub mixture into fish. Cover lightly with plastic wrap, and chill 15 minutes.

Place fish, skin side down, on a grill rack coated with cooking spray; grill 10 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Alternatively, roast on a broiler pan in a 400 degree oven for 10 minutes.

--Adapted from Cooking Light

Mozzarella and Basil with Marinara sauce

2011-03-20T10:34:00.002-04:00

Great appetizer.

8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
2 cups marinara sauce
French baguette slices 1

Heat oven to 350°F. In shallow 2-quart casserole, place cheese cubes. Sprinkle with basil. Spoon marinara sauce around cheese.

Bake uncovered 8 to 10 minutes or until cheese is hot and bubbly. Serve with baguette slices.

Adapted from Betty Crocker Quick and Easy Cookbook

Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini

2011-03-20T10:31:00.000-04:00

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 pound Italian sausage links, casings removed
1/4 cup grated Asiago
2 tablespoons pine nuts
2 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes
2 chopped scallions
4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise

Heat oven to 400° F.

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, 5 to 7 minutes.

In a medium bowl, combine the cooked sausage, Asiago, pine nuts, tomatoes, and scallions.

Using a teaspoon, hollow out the zucchini. Place on a rimmed baking sheet. Fill with the sausage mixture and roast until the zucchini is tender, 12 to 15 minutes.

--Adapted from Real Simple

Sausage with White Beans and Tarragon

2011-02-27T16:26:00.002-05:00

2 tablespoons olive oil
8 small Italian sausage links (about 1 1/2 pounds total)
2 medium carrots, thinly sliced on the bias
1 onion, chopped
kosher salt and black pepper
1 15-ounce can white beans, rinsed
3/4 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon fresh tarragon

Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Wipe out the skillet and heat the remaining tablespoon of oil over medium heat.

Add the carrots, onion, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 8 to 10 minutes.

Add the beans and wine and simmer for 5 minutes. Fold in the sliced sausage and tarragon.

--Adapted from Real Simple

Provencale Tuna

2011-02-27T16:23:00.001-05:00

1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomato
3/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped pitted niçoise olives (or capers)
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon dried tarragon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 (6-ounce) tuna steaks (about 3/4 inch thick)
1 1/2 teaspoons dried herbes de Provence
1/4 teaspoon salt
Cooking spray
Chive sprigs (optional)

Combine first 7 ingredients in a medium bowl. Cover and chill 20 minutes.

Prepare grill.

Sprinkle fish with herbes de Provence and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Place fish on a grill rack coated with cooking spray; cook 3 minutes on each side or until fish is medium-rare or desired degree of doneness. Serve fish with tomato mixture. Garnish with chives, if desired.

--Adapted from Cooking Light

Mu Shu Vegetables with Asian Pancakes

2011-02-27T16:15:00.002-05:00

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix
1 bag (8 ounces) fresh bean sprouts
1 package (8 ounces) sliced mushrooms
1 tablespoon grated gingerroot
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 1/4 cups Bisquick® Original baking mix
1 1/4 cups milk
1 egg
8 green onions, chopped (1/2 cup)
Additional hoisin sauce

Heat oil in 4-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook coleslaw mix, bean sprouts, mushrooms and gingerroot in oil about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until vegetables are tender. Stir in 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce. Reduce heat; keep warm.

Beat baking mix, milk and egg in medium bowl with wire whisk or hand beater until well blended. Stir in onions.

Lightly grease 10-inch skillet; heat over medium-high heat. Pour a scant 1/4 cup batter into skillet; rotate skillet to make a thin pancake, 5 to 6 inches in diameter. Cook until bubbles break on surface; turn. Cook other side until golden brown. Keep warm while making remaining pancakes.

Spoon about 1/3 cup vegetable mixture onto each pancake; roll up. Serve with additional hoisin sauce.

--Adapted from Betty Crocker Quick and Easy Cookbook

Gemelli with Tuna and Sun-dried tomatoes

2011-02-27T10:13:00.002-05:00

Surprisingly good. Very quick and easy. A tablespoon or so of dried parsley/basil works just fine. You want something to help absorb all the tasty sauce.

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 (6-ounce) cans Italian tuna in olive oil, drained
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped
Coarse salt and black pepper
1 pound gemelli pasta, cooked
1/3 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
20ish fresh basil leaves, shredded

Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add extra-virgin olive oil and garlic to the pan. When garlic sizzles, add tuna and mash into oil with the back of a wooden spoon. Turn the heat off, and let the tuna sit in the oil 5 minutes to infuse the fish flavor into the extra-virgin olive oil and to give the tuna time to break down -- it will almost melt into the extra-virgin olive oil. Add the coarsely chopped tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Heat the tomatoes through, 2 minutes, then add hot, drained pasta. Add parsley to the tuna and pasta and toss to combine well and evenly coat pasta. Adjust seasonings. Top pasta with shredded basil and serve.

--Adapted from Rachel Ray

Crispy Pork Cutlets with Spicy Noodles

2011-02-27T10:08:00.003-05:00

Spinach or bok choy would make a great addition. Stir the greens into the noodles right before serving.

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 1 1/2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
1/2 pound udon noodles
1/2 pound shiitake mushrooms, stems discarded and caps sliced
1 red jalapeño pepper, sliced
4 thin pork cutlets (about 3⁄4 pound total)
kosher salt and black pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg, beaten
3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 scallions, sliced

In a large pot, bring the chicken broth and ginger to a boil.

Add the noodles and cook, stirring, until the broth is nearly absorbed and the noodles are al dente, 4 to 6 minutes.

Add the mushrooms and jalapeño and simmer until the mushrooms are just tender, 1 to 2 minutes.

Meanwhile, season the pork with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Coat with the flour, then the egg, and finally the panko. Let the pork rest 2 to 3 minutes for the crust to adhere. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the pork until cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes per side.

Slice the pork and serve over the noodles. Sprinkle with the scallions.

--Adapted from Real Simple

Vegetable Stir Fry

2011-02-27T10:05:00.001-05:00

1 cup long-grain white rice
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon Sriracha or some other hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco)
1 tablespoon canola oil
2 carrots, cut into very thin strips
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and caps thinly sliced
2 cups bean sprouts
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

Cook the rice according to the package directions.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, lime juice, and Sriracha. Set aside.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the carrots and bell pepper and cook, tossing frequently, for 3 minutes.

Add the mushrooms and bean sprouts and cook, tossing, until the vegetables are just tender, 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the soy sauce mixture and toss to coat. Serve over the rice and sprinkle with the scallions and peanuts.

--Adapted from Real Simple magazine

Zucchini Au Gratin

2011-02-27T09:56:00.002-05:00

Very tasty. It's rather soupy though, so it needs to stand and thicken up before serving.

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
2 tbsp margarine
2 tbsp flour
1 cup milk
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat broiler. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and onions, season with salt and pepper and saute for 5 to 1o minutes, stirring frequently, until zucchini rounds are crisp-tender.

Heat butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. When butter is completely melted, whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook until slightly brown. Whisk in milk, until sauce is thickened. Season with nutmeg and pepper. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese.

Transfer sauteed zucchini to a casserole dish. Pour sauce over the veggies and cover with shredded sharp cheddar. Broil for 3-4 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

--Adapted from Rachel Ray

Meatball Stew

2011-02-27T09:53:00.002-05:00

2 potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 (10 1/2-ounce) can beef broth, undiluted
2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
1 1/4 cups water
1/2 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 (10-ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables
3 dozen frozen meatballs

Bring first 8 ingredients to a boil in a large saucepan. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Stir in meatballs; cover and simmer 10 to 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender and meatballs are thoroughly heated.

--Adapted from Southern Living magazine

Rigatoni with Sausage and Broccoli

2011-01-23T15:07:00.003-05:00

1/2 pound rigatoni (1⁄2 box)
1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
kosher salt and black pepper
1 pound Italian sausage links, casings removed and meat broken into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (1 ounce)
red pepper flakes, to taste

Cook the pasta according to the package directions.

While pasta cooks, thoroughly brown sausage in the olive oil. Remove from pan. Deglaze the pan with 1/2 cup pasta water. Add broccoli. Cook broccoli over medium heat, 3 minutes or until crisp tender, adding more water if necessary.

Return sausage and pasta to pan. Top with Parmesan and red pepper flakes.

Easy Chicken Soup

2011-01-23T15:02:00.002-05:00

3 cups water
1 package ramen noodles, chicken flavor
2 cups cooked cut up chicken
1 bundle swiss chard
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced into rounds
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Heat water to boiling in a saucepan. Break up noodles, reserving seasoning packet. Stir noodles, chicken, and carrots into water. Return to boil. Boil 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in chard, sesame oil, and seasoning packet. Serve immediately.

--Adapted from Betty Crocker Quick and Easy cookbook

Spiced Pork and Sweet Potato Stew

2011-01-23T14:47:00.001-05:00

2 1/2 pounds boneless pork shoulder or butt, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
kosher salt and black pepper
5 green onions, sliced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/3 cup apricot preserves
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and sliced thin
cooked couscous, sliced scallions, and chopped roasted almonds, for serving

In a large Dutch oven, toss the pork with the paprika, cumin, ginger, cinnamon, cayenne, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Scatter the onion over the pork. Add the chicken broth, preserves, and vinegar to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until tender, about 2 ½ hours.

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and ¼ cup water and stir into the pot along with the chickpeas and sweet potatoes. Simmer, uncovered, until the cooking liquid is slightly thickened, 15 to 20 minutes more. Serve over couscous and sprinkle with the scallions and almonds, if desired.

--Adapted from Real Simple

Meatballs with Couscous and Feta

2011-01-23T14:42:00.002-05:00

1 pound ground lamb or beef
1/4 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 cup sliced green onions
kosher salt and black pepper
1 cup couscous
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 plum tomatoes, sliced
1/2 English cucumber, halved and thinly sliced
4 ounces Feta, crumbled

Heat broiler. In a medium bowl, combine the meat, apricots, coriander, chopped green onion, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.

Form the meat into 1 ½-inch balls (about 20) and place them on a broilerproof baking sheet. Broil until cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes. Meanwhile, place the couscous in a bowl. Add 1 cup boiling water, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

In a small bowl, mix together the oil, lemon juice, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper.

Serve the couscous with the meatballs, tomatoes, cucumber, Feta. Drizzle with the dressing.

--Adapted from Real Simple

Sweet Potato and Brie Flatbread

2011-01-23T14:38:00.001-05:00

4 pieces Naan or other premade flatbread
1 medium sweet potato, peeled, halved, and thinly sliced
4 green onions, thinly sliced
8 sprigs fresh thyme
3 tablespoons olive oil
kosher salt and black pepper
4 ounces Brie, sliced

Heat oven to 425° F.

In a medium bowl, toss the sweet potato, shallots, thyme, oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.

Scatter the potato mixture over the flatbread and top with the Brie. Bake until golden brown and crisp, 15 to 20 minutes.

--Adapted from Real Simple

Sugar Cookies

2011-01-23T14:06:00.001-05:00

The best sugar cookie recipe ever, courtesy of Alton Brown.

3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon milk
Powdered sugar, for rolling out dough

Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Place butter and sugar in large bowl of electric stand mixer and beat until light in color. Add egg and milk and beat to combine. Put mixer on low speed, gradually add flour, and beat until mixture pulls away from the side of the bowl. Divide the dough in half, wrap in waxed paper, and refrigerate for 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Sprinkle surface where you will roll out dough with powdered sugar. Remove 1 wrapped pack of dough from refrigerator at a time, sprinkle rolling pin with powdered sugar, and roll out dough to 1/4-inch thick. Move the dough around and check underneath frequently to make sure it is not sticking. If dough has warmed during rolling, place cold cookie sheet on top for 10 minutes to chill. Cut into desired shape, place at least 1-inch apart on greased baking sheet, parchment, or silicone baking mat, and bake for 7 to 9 minutes or until cookies are just beginning to turn brown around the edges, rotating cookie sheet halfway through baking time. Let sit on baking sheet for 2 minutes after removal from oven and then move to complete cooling on wire rack. Serve as is or ice as desired. Store in airtight container for up to 1 week.

--Adapted from Alton Brown

Spaghetti Pie

2011-01-23T13:52:00.002-05:00

1 pound ground round
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 (8-ounce) cans tomato sauce with garlic
1 1/2 cups low-fat sour cream
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup (2 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened
4 cups hot cooked spaghetti (about 8 ounces uncooked pasta)
Cooking spray
1 1/3 cups (about 5 ounces) shredded reduced-fat extra-sharp cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350°.

Cook meat in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain well, and return meat to pan. Stir in salt, pepper, and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes. Combine the sour cream, green onions, and cream cheese in a small bowl, and set aside. Place the spaghetti noodles in a 2-quart casserole dish coated with cooking spray. Spread the sour cream mixture over spaghetti noodles. Top with meat mixture. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Cover and bake at 350° for 25 minutes. Uncover; bake an additional 5 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Pecan-crusted Tilapia

2010-12-12T22:29:00.001-05:00

1/4 cup pecan halves
1/4 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
4 (6-ounce) tilapia fillets
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1. Place pecans in a mini chopper or food processor; pulse until pecans are finely ground. Combine pecans and panko in a shallow dish.

2. Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle fish evenly with salt and pepper. Dredge tops of fish in nut mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place half of fish, breading side down, in pan; cook 4 minutes or until browned. Turn fish over; cook 4 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork or until desired degree of doneness. Remove fish from pan; cover and keep warm. Repeat procedure with remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil and remaining fish.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Mushroom and Potato Soup with Smoked Paprika

2010-12-12T22:24:00.002-05:00

2 ounces dried porcini mushrooms
1 1/2 pounds fresh button mushrooms
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup green onion, chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3 ounces bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon smoked paprika (pimentón)
1 cup dry white wine
2 cups chicken broth
3 russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (1 1/2 lbs.), peeled and chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 to 8 tbsp. crème fraîche or sour cream

1. In a small bowl, pour 1 cup boiling water over dried porcini. Set aside.

2. Cut off stems of button mushrooms. Finely chop stems; set aside. Halve caps, slice, and add to stems. With a slotted spoon, lift out porcini, pressing excess liquid into bowl, and transfer to a cutting board. Finely chop porcini and add to stems and caps. Reserve soaking liquid.

3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and add paprika, bacon, and onions and cook until very fragrant, 2 minutes. Turn heat to high and add mushrooms. Cook, stirring constantly, until mushrooms start giving off their liquid, 3 to 5 minutes.

4. Add wine and cook until liquid is reduced by half, about 3 minutes. Add reserved porcini soaking liquid (pouring carefully to leave behind the sandy dregs), chicken broth, 2 cups water, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, until potatoes are tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, with a dollop of crème fraîche.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Turkey

2010-12-12T22:19:00.002-05:00

2 teaspoons butter or stick margarine
1 cup chopped carrot
1/2 cup chopped green onion
1 teaspoon chopped fresh or 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 (16-ounce) cans fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cups chopped turkey breast (1/2 pound)
1 cup uncooked wild rice (or 2 cups cooked wild rice)
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 3/4 cups 2% reduced-fat milk
2 tablespoons dry sherry
1/2 teaspoon salt

Melt the butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add carrot and next 5 ingredients (carrot through garlic). Sauté 8 minutes or until browned. Stir in broth, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Stir in turkey and rice; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour and 15 minutes or until rice is tender. (If using cooked rice, reduce cooking time to 30 minutes.)

Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour and milk in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk. Add to pan. Cook over medium heat until thick (about 8 minutes), stirring frequently. Stir in sherry and salt.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Spinach and Artichokes in Puff Pastry

2010-12-12T22:12:00.001-05:00

1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 (17.3-ounce) package frozen puff pastry

Drain spinach well, pressing between layers of paper towels.

Stir together spinach, artichoke hearts, and next 5 ingredients.

Thaw puff pastry at room temperature 30 minutes. Unfold pastry, and place on a lightly floured surface or heavy-duty plastic wrap. Spread one-half spinach mixture evenly over pastry sheet, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Roll up pastry, jellyroll fashion, pressing to seal seam; wrap in heavy-duty plastic wrap. Repeat procedure with remaining pastry and spinach mixture.

Freeze 30 minutes; cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices. (Rolls may be frozen up to 3 months.)

Bake at 400° for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

--Adapted from Southern Living magazine

Southern Stir-Fry

2010-12-12T22:08:00.002-05:00

1 cup cooked white rice
1 cup frozen whole kernel corn
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
Tabasco, to taste
1 can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
2 cups spinach leaves

Cook all ingredients, except spinach, in skillet, stirring occasionally, until hot. Stir in spinach. Cook until spinach begins to wilt.

--Adapted from Betty Crocker Quick and Easy Cookbook

Creamy Corn and Garlic Risotto

2010-12-12T21:55:00.003-05:00

4 cups chicken broth
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
3 cups frozen whole kernel corn
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Cook as risotto. Add corn in middle of process. Stir in cheese at end.

--Adapted from Betty Crocker Quick and Easy Cookbook

Ravioli in Tomato Sauce

2010-12-12T16:21:00.002-05:00

1 package refrigerated ravioli
I tablespoon olive oil
1 (8 oz) sliced mushrooms
1 can beef broth
1 can tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon fennel seed
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Cook ravioli.

Saute mushrooms in oil. Remove from pan. Stir together broth, tomato paste, fennel and red pepper. Bring to a boil, and simmer 5 minutes, or until broth is reduced by half and sauce is thickened.

Combine tomato sauce and ravioli.

Quick Apple Crisp

2010-12-12T16:17:00.002-05:00

1 (15 oz) can apple pie filling
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
2 crunchy granola bars
ice cream

Spoon apple pie filling into 4 microwave safe dishes. Grate nutmeg into each. Microwave 2 minutes or until hot.

While apples cook, finely crush granola bars. It works best to crush them in the packages.

Top apples with granola crumbs and ice cream.

Honey Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple Spears and Sesame Rice

2010-12-12T16:07:00.003-05:00

2 cups water
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon salt
1 rounded cup white rice
2 tablespoons black sesame seeds, toasted
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Vegetable oil, for drizzling
Salt and pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1-inch ginger root, peeled and chopped
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
4 scallions, thinly sliced
1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cored

Preheat a grill pan or large griddle over medium high heat. Bring water to a boil in a small covered pot. Add butter, salt and rice to the pot. Return the water to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and replace cover. Simmer 18 minutes and remove rice from heat.

Take the lid off the pot to cool rice a bit. Scoop rice into balls with an ice cream scoop and your hands. Dampen hands with water to work with rice if it is very sticky. Set rice balls on a plate and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.

While your rice is cooking, lightly coat chicken with oil, salt and pepper. Place chicken on hot grill and cook 6 minutes on the first side.

While chicken is cooking, bring chicken broth and ginger to a boil. Stir in honey. When honey has dissolved into broth, add teriyaki sauce and sesame oil and reduce heat to simmer.

Turn chicken and coat liberally with honey teriyaki sauce using a basting brush. Cook chicken 4 minutes, turn again and baste liberally again with sauce, then cook 2 minutes longer. Remove chicken to a plate. Garnish chicken with sliced scallions. While chicken cooks on the second side, peel and cut a ripe pineapple into 8 spears.

Grill pineapple, 1 to 2 minutes, basting with any leftover glaze.

Crispy Noodle Salad with Sweet and Sour Dressing

2010-12-12T16:02:00.001-05:00

6 cups mixed baby greens, 1 sack
1 cup fresh bean spouts
1 cup shredded carrot
2 scallions, chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
2 cups fried noodles, any size (such as chow mein)
2 tablespoons sweet plum sauce (hoisin) or duck sauce
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1/3 cup light oil, peanut, canola or vegetable oil
Salt and pepper

In a bowl, combine greens, bean sprouts, carrot, scallions, red bell pepper and half of the fried noodles.

Whisk together plum or duck sauce and vinegar in a smaller bowl. Stream in oil and continue whisking to combine. Dress salad and toss with salt and pepper, to your taste. Serve salad with remaining crispy noodles, as garnish.

--Adapted from Rachel Ray

Roasted Potatoes with Paprika Butter

2010-12-12T16:00:00.001-05:00

3 pounds small red new potatoes
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 stick butter
2 teaspoons sweet paprika
1/4 cup parsley leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Sort potatoes. Potatoes that are 2 inches or less in diameter can be left whole. Halve remaining potatoes. Coat very lightly with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and roast potatoes 20 to 25 minutes, until just tender.

Transfer potatoes from the oven to a bowl. Sprinkle in parsley and season the potatoes with salt and pepper. Toss the potatoes with butter and paprika to coat evenly. Adjust salt and pepper, to your taste, and serve.

--Adapted from Rachel Ray

Broiled Citrus Salad

2010-12-12T15:56:00.001-05:00

2 quarts jarred citrus salad, drained
3 ounces Cointreau or other orange liqueur
1/3 cup brown sugar
Several sprigs fresh mint, for garnish

Arrange drained citrus in a casserole dish. Douse fruit with liqueur. Top fruit with 3 handfuls of brown sugar sprinkled evenly over the top.

Place casserole under a hot broiler 6 inches from heat source for 7 or 8 minutes until sugar just begins to brown and bubble. Garnish warm casserole with torn or chopped fresh mint leaves and serve.

--Adapted from Rachel Ray

Harvest Sweet Potato Pecan Pie Tarts

2010-12-11T17:59:00.002-05:00

I made this in ramekins, rather than the phyllo cups. It was great.

1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup chopped toasted pecans
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon dark corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg white
2 (2.1-ounce) packages mini phyllo shells (such as Athens)

Preheat oven to 350°.

Combine sweet potato, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt, stirring well.

Combine pecans, brown sugar, syrup, vanilla, and egg white, stirring well.

Spoon about 1 teaspoon sweet potato mixture into each phyllo shell, spreading to edges. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon pecan mixture over sweet potato mixture. Place filled shells on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 20 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Black Bean Taquitos

2010-12-11T10:18:00.002-05:00

Great easy recipe. Freezes well, and reheats straight from freezer.

Taquitos:
1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup (4 ounces) preshredded reduced-fat 4-cheese Mexican blend cheese
1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, undrained
10 (8-inch) flour tortillas
Cooking spray

Adobo Sour Cream:
1 cup reduced-fat sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 to 3 teaspoons minced chipotle chile, canned in adobo sauce

To prepare taquitos, add cheese, beans, and green chiles; pulse 15 times or until beans are coarsely chopped.

Spoon about 3 tablespoons bean mixture across the lower third of each tortilla; roll up. Cut each tortilla in half; secure with wooden picks. Place taquitos in a large zip-top plastic bag; freeze up to 3 months.

Preheat oven to 400º.

Place frozen taquitos on a large baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° for 10 minutes; turn taquitos, and coat with cooking spray. Bake an additional 10 minutes or until golden.

If baking without freezing, then bake 5 minutes a side, or until golden.

To prepare adobo sour cream, combine sour cream, cilantro, and chipotle chile. Stir well.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Cornbread Dressing

2010-11-27T19:21:00.002-05:00

1 pkg Jiffy Cornbread, cooked, cooled and crumbled
4 slices bread (crusts on), ground into fine crumbs
5 celery ribs, medium dice
5 green onions, sliced
2 eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 tablespoon dried sage
3 cups water (or chicken broth)
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Combine all ingredients. Mix thoroughly. Refrigerate 2 hours.

Bake at 350 for 45 minutes.

Sweet and Spicy Glaze

2010-09-29T13:16:00.003-04:00

This is a great all-purpose glaze for chicken, fish, or shrimp. This would make an amazing Asian hot wing sauce.

3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
4 teaspoons Chinese-style hot mustard (or wasabi paste)
1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Stir ingredients together. Microwave 30 seconds to combine. Stir again, and pour over meat or veggies.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Parmesan Zucchini Fries

2010-09-29T12:46:00.002-04:00

Don't cut them too thin, or they simply shrivel up. You might also want to take a spoon and scoop out the seeds and inner membranes. The firm flesh fries seem to work better.

3 large zucchini (about 1 1/2 pounds)
1 cup dry breadcrumbs
1/2 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup (1 ounce) grated fresh Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup egg substitute( or 2 eggs)
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 400°.

Cut 1 zucchini in half crosswise; cut each half lengthwise into 8 wedges. Repeat procedure with remaining zucchini. Combine breadcrumbs, panko, cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish. Dip zucchini in egg substitute; dredge in breadcrumb mixture. Place zucchini on a wire rack coated with cooking spray. Lightly coat zucchini with cooking spray. Bake at 400° for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve immediately with sauce.

--Adapted from Cooking light magazine

Honey Limeade

2010-09-29T12:44:00.002-04:00

You can also freeze this into ice cubes and blend for a great frozen drink.

1 cup lime juice
1/4 to 1/2 cup honey
2 cups ice cubes
1 lime, rinsed

1. In a pitcher (at least 2-qt. capacity), stir lime juice and 1/4 cup honey until blended. Taste; if mixture is too tart, add up to 1/4 cup more honey. Add 5 cups water. Chill until cold, at least 1 hour, or up to 1 day.

2. Just before serving, add ice cubes. Thinly slice lime crosswise (discard ends), cut slices in half, and add to pitcher.

--Adapted from Southern Living magazine

Fried Oysters

2010-09-26T10:54:00.001-04:00

1 quart fresh oysters, rinsed and drained
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 1/2 cups saltine crumbs (1 sleeve crackers)
1 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
1/8 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Canola oil

Dip oysters in egg, and dredge in cracker crumbs. Place on a pan, and chill 2 hours, if desired.

Stir together ketchup, horseradish, and, if desired, hot sauce; chill.

Pour oil to a depth of 1 inch in a Dutch oven; heat to 350°.

Fry oysters, in batches, 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with sauce.

--Adapted from Southern Living magazine

Easy Baked Fish Filets

2010-09-26T10:51:00.002-04:00

1 1/2 pounds tilapia or other white fish fillets
Cooking spray
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon light mayonnaise
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1 1/2 tablespoons butter or stick margarine, melted
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 425°.

Place fish in an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Combine lime juice, mayonnaise, onion powder, and pepper in a small bowl, and spread over fish. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs; drizzle with butter. Bake at 425° for 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork - will vary based on thickness of fish. Sprinkle with parsley.

--Adapted from Cooking light magazine

Turkey and Oat Burgers

2010-09-26T10:45:00.002-04:00

Easily the best turkey burger recipe I've run across.

1 cup regular oats
1/4 cup finely chopped green onion
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
Cooking spray

Combine first 7 ingredients. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions, shaping each into a 1/2-inch-thick patty.

Heat a grill pan coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Add patties; cook 6 minutes on each side or until done.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Tembleque (Coconut Custard)

2010-09-26T10:29:00.001-04:00

3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon salt
3 (13.5-ounce) cans light coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Combine first 4 ingredients in a heavy medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Strain through a sieve into a shallow 2-quart dish; cover surface of custard with plastic wrap. Chill overnight. Sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Sweet Hot Tofu

2010-09-26T10:23:00.001-04:00

1 (3 1/2-ounce) bag boil-in-bag long-grain rice
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 (14-ounce) package firm reduced-fat tofu, cut into (1-inch) cubes
2/3 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon sherry
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon dark sesame oil
Dash of crushed red pepper (or Sambal)
2 teaspoons bottled minced fresh ginger
2 teaspoons bottled minced garlic
1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions

Prepare rice according to package directions, omitting salt and fat.

Heat canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu, and sauté 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from skillet.

Combine broth and the next 7 ingredients (through pepper), stirring well with a whisk.

Add ginger, garlic, and onions to pan; sauté 30 seconds. Stir in broth mixture; cook 1 minute or until thickened, stirring constantly. Add tofu to pan; cook 30 seconds, stirring gently to coat. Divide rice evenly among each of 4 plates; top each serving with tofu mixture.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Barley Sausage Skillet

2010-09-26T10:17:00.001-04:00

1 (14-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 cup quick-cooking barley
Cooking spray
8 ounces hot turkey Italian sausage
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/4 cup chopped green onion
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 (8-ounce) package presliced mushrooms
2 teaspoons bottled minced garlic
2 tablespoons Madeira wine
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Place broth in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Add barley to pan. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 10 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Remove casings from sausage. Add sausage to pan; cook 3 minutes, stirring to crumble. Transfer to a bowl. Heat oil in pan over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms; sauté 4 minutes or until liquid evaporates. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute. Return sausage to pan. Stir in Madeira; sauté 2 minutes. Add barley; cook 1 minute or until thoroughly heated. Remove from heat; stir in basil and black pepper.

Summer Farfalle Salad with Smoked Salmon

2010-09-26T09:59:00.001-04:00

3 cups uncooked farfalle (bow tie pasta)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1 (6-ounce) bag baby spinach
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons cold water
1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 ounces (about 8 slices) smoked salmon, cut into thin strips

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain and rinse with cold water; drain.

Combine pasta, tomatoes, dill, and spinach in a large bowl, tossing gently to combine.

Combine lemon rind and next 5 ingredients (lemon rind through pepper) in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk. Drizzle over pasta mixture; toss gently to coat. Top with salmon.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Slow-cooker Chicken Paprikash

2010-09-26T09:52:00.001-04:00

Serve over rice or egg noodles.

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1/2-inch strips
1 1/4 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup shredded carrot
2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika
2 teaspoons bottled minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (8-ounce) package presliced mushrooms
1 1/4 cups reduced-fat sour cream
1/2 cup sliced green onions

Combine flour and chicken in a medium bowl; toss well. Add chicken mixture, and the next 8 ingredients (through mushrooms) to an electric slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.

Stir in sour cream and green onions.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Three-Bean Tacos

2010-09-26T09:42:00.002-04:00

Surprisingly good. Very hearty, and dirt cheap. This recipe would be a great extender for traditional ground beef tacos.

1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 garlic clove, minced
1 can canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
1 can canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can canned pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 (8-ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce

Taco fixings

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add red bell pepper and next 6 ingredients (pepper through garlic), and sauté 2 minutes. Add chickpeas, beans, and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until thick.

Prepare tacos, served with whatever you like.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Zaatar Straws

2010-09-24T11:07:00.002-04:00

Zaatar:
3 tablespoons sumac
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon roasted sesame seeds
1 tablespoons dried marjoram
1 tablespoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon coarse salt

Combine all ingredients in a small food processor or coffee grinder. Pulse to combine.

Straws:
About 1/2 cup flour for rolling pastry
1/2 pound chilled puff pastry
About 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
3 to 4 tbsp. zaatar
Egg wash (1 egg whisked with 2 tbsp. water)

1. Preheat oven to 375°. Flour a work surface and a rolling pin. Set puff pastry on surface, sprinkle lightly with flour, and roll out into a rectangle about 8 in. by 12 in. and 1/8 in. thick. Arrange pastry so that it's horizontal and trim edges even.

2. Brush pastry all over with olive oil. Sprinkle left half of pastry liberally with half of the zaatar and fold right (unsprinkled) pastry half over zaatar, like closing a book. Lightly sprinkle top of pastry with flour and roll back out into a rectangle almost as large as the one you began with. As before, brush pastry with olive oil, sprinkle half with remaining zaatar, and fold unsprinkled half over zaatar. Roll with the pin a few times to seal.

3. With a sharp knife or pizza wheel, cut pastry lengthwise into 1/3-in.-wide strips. Twist each strip loosely a couple of times and put on an ungreased baking sheet (push ends onto sheet to keep straw from untwisting; you may need 2 sheets). Dab tops of strips lightly with egg wash.

4. Bake straws until medium golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool 1 minute, then loosen gently from sheet with spatula. Serve warm or cool.

-- Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Creamy Dill Slaw

2010-09-24T11:05:00.001-04:00

4 green onions, sliced
1 (8-ounce) container sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 (16-ounce) package coleslaw mix
1 (10-ounce) package finely shredded cabbage

Stir together first 8 ingredients in a large bowl until mixture is blended; stir in coleslaw mix and cabbage. Cover and chill 8 hours. Garnish, if desired.

--Adapted from Southern Living magazine

Artichoke-Potato Salad

2010-09-24T10:32:00.002-04:00

1 can chopped artichokes
3/4 pound small red potatoes
1/2 cup frozen green peas, thawed
1/4 cup mayo
1 tablespoon chopped fresh or 1 teaspoon dried dill
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 garlic clove, minced

Place potatoes in a saucepan, and cover with water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes or until tender; drain and rinse with cold water. Cool. Cut potatoes into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Add potatoes and peas to chopped artichoke in bowl.

Combine mayo and remaining ingredients in a small bowl, and stir well with a whisk. Pour over the artichoke mixture, and toss well. Cover and chill.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Vermont Baked Beans

2010-09-24T10:26:00.002-04:00

These had a mild flavor that needs a strong accompaniment. Would be good for potlucks.

1 pound dried navy beans (about 2 cups)
Cooking spray
1 tablespoon onion powder
1/2 cup diced salt pork or bacon (about 4 ounces)
5 1/2 cups water
3/4 cup maple syrup, divided
1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco)

1. Sort and wash beans; place in a large bowl. Cover with water to 2 inches above beans; cover and let stand overnight. Drain beans.

2. Preheat oven to 325°.

3. Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add pork to pan; sauté 5 minutes. Add beans, onion powder, 5 1/2 cups water, 1/2 cup syrup, mustard, salt, and pepper sauce; bring to a boil. Cover and bake at 325° for 2 1/2 hours or until beans are tender, stirring occasionally. Uncover and bake an additional 30 minutes or until mixture begins to thicken. Stir in remaining 1/4 cup syrup.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Wild Rice Salad with Pumpkin Vinaigrette

2010-09-24T10:22:00.002-04:00

This would be a great recipe for Thanksgiving leftovers. We added fresh baby spinach, and served it warm for a great main dish.

1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 (6-oz.) package long-grain and wild rice mix
1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries
1 cup finely chopped celery
3/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup canned pumpkin
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup olive oil

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake pecans in a single layer in a shallow pan 8 to 10 minutes or until toasted and fragrant.

2. Prepare rice according to package directions; let cool to room temperature (about 25 minutes). Stir in cranberries, celery, green onions, and toasted pecans.

3. Whisk together canned pumpkin, next 5 ingredients, and 2 Tbsp. water. Gradually whisk in olive oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking until blended.

4. Pour pumpkin vinaigrette over rice mixture; stir gently to coat. Cover and chill 2 to 24 hours. Serve at room temperature.

--Adapted from Southern Living magazine

Roasted Vegetables with Tangy Butter Sauce

2010-09-24T10:14:00.002-04:00

Vegetables:
21 baby carrots (about 12 ounces)
5 small red potatoes, quartered (about 8 ounces)
8 green onions, white parts only
1/8 teaspoon salt
8 ounces haricots verts, trimmed

Sauce:
2/3 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
3 tablespoons chopped shallots
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 1/2 tablespoons butter

To prepare vegetables:

Combine carrots and potatoes in a small roasting pan. Coat vegetables with cooking spray; sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon salt. Toss. Bake at 450° for 20 minutes, turning once. Coat haricots verts and green onions with cooking spray. Add haricots verts and green onions to vegetable mixture; toss. Bake an additional 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

To prepare sauce, combine broth, shallots, and vinegar in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Cook until reduced to 1/4 cup (about 4 minutes); remove from heat. Stir in butter. Serve alongside vegetables.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Pasta Arrabiata

2010-08-15T18:45:00.002-04:00

Very good.

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 can tomato paste
1 can fire-roasted tomatoes, undrained
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 greek (the green ones) pepperoncini peppers

Stem and seed peppers. This sauce is only mildly spicy. If you want it more spicy, add more peppers, or leave in seeds. Slice peppers into narrow rounds.

Combine all ingredients. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, or until slightly reduced.

Combine with pasta of your choice.

Asparagus with Ginger

2010-08-15T08:37:00.001-04:00

1 1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Sauté asparagus in 2 teaspoons hot oil over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet 7 minutes. Add ginger, and sauté 1 minute. Stir in sugar and remaining ingredients, and cook 1 minute.

--Adapted from Southern Living

Blueberry Yum Yum

2010-08-15T08:35:00.001-04:00

1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sifted powdered sugar
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup water
4 cups fresh blueberries

Stir together first 4 ingredients with a fork until crumbly. Press into a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch pan.

Bake at 375° for 15 minutes. Cool in pan on a wire rack.

Beat whipped topping, cream cheese, and powdered sugar at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth. Spoon over prepared crust. Cover and chill.

Stir together sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan; whisk in 1 cup water until smooth. Stir in blueberries, and bring to a boil. Boil, stirring constantly, 2 minutes. Remove from heat; cool. Pour over cream cheese mixture. Cover and chill at least 2 hours.

--Adapted from Southern Living

Salty Rosemary Oven Fries

2010-08-15T08:07:00.002-04:00

2 large baking potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
2 teaspoons dried rosemary
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Vegetable cooking spray

Cut each potato lengthwise into 10 to 12 wedges. The wedges should be large enough to sit upright, skin side down. Drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with next 4 ingredients; toss to coat.

Arrange potato wedges, skin side down, in a single layer on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray.

Bake at 450° for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown.

--Adapted from Southern Living magazine

Garlic and herb Oven-Fried Halibut

2010-08-15T08:05:00.001-04:00

1 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 large garlic clove, minced
2 large egg whites, lightly beaten
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
6 (6-ounce) halibut fillets
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 450°.

Combine first 5 ingredients in a shallow dish. Place egg whites and egg in a shallow dish. Place flour in a shallow dish. Sprinkle fish with salt and pepper. Dredge fish in flour. Dip in egg mixture; dredge in panko mixture.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 fish fillets; cook 2 1/2 minutes on each side or until browned. Place fish on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray. Repeat procedure with remaining 1 tablespoon oil and remaining fish. Bake at 450° for 6 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork or until desired degree of doneness.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Easy Bean Quesodillas

2010-08-01T12:04:00.002-04:00

3/4 cup refried beans
4 (8-inch) flour tortillas
1 1/4 cups (5 ounces) shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
1/2 cup taco sauce, divided
Sour cream

Preheat oven to 400. Place tortillas directly on oven racks. Bake 3 minutes or until just beginning to crisp.

Mix beans and 1 cup cheese until well combined. Spread bean mixture evenly over 2 tortillas. Place the other two tortillas on top. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top of quesodillas.

Return quesodillas to oven racks, bake 3 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortillas are crisp.

Lentil-Edamame Stew

2010-08-01T11:57:00.002-04:00

1 cup dried lentils
3/4 cup frozen shelled edamame (green soybeans)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cups minced green onion
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Dash of ground cloves

1. Place lentils in a large saucepan; cover with water to 2 inches above lentils. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until tender. Drain well, and set aside.

2. Place edamame in a small saucepan; cover with water to 2 inches above edamame. Bring to a boil; cook 2 minutes or until edamame are tender. Remove from heat; drain well.

3. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and tomatoes to pan; sauté 6 minutes or until onion is translucent, stirring often. Stir in lentils, edamame, juice, and remaining ingredients. Cook 2 minutes or until thoroughly heated, stirring often.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Lemonade Frozen Yogurt

2010-08-01T11:55:00.001-04:00

1 quart (32 oz.) vanilla low-fat yogurt
12 ounces frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed
1 cup half-and-half
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup sugar

1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemonade concentrate, half-and-half, lemon juice, and sugar until sugar is dissolved. Chill until cold, about 30 minutes.

2. Freeze mixture in an ice cream maker (1 1/2-qt. capacity) according to manufacturer's instructions, until motor stops or dasher is hard to turn. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze until firm enough to scoop, about 2 hours.

Tuna-Garbanzo Salad

2010-08-01T11:52:00.001-04:00

2 quarts water
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups (1-inch) cut green beans (about 1/2 pound)
1 finely chopped shallot
2 fire-roasted piquillo peppers, chopped
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
1 garlic clove, minced
3 tablespoons light mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
1 teaspoon Spanish smoked paprika
4 cups arugula
1 (7.8-ounce) jar premium tuna, packed in oil, drained and flaked

Bring 2 quarts water and salt to a boil. Add green beans; cook 4 minutes or until beans are crisp-tender. Drain and rinse with cold water; drain. Combine green beans, shallots, peppers, chickpeas, and garlic in a large bowl.

Combine mayonnaise, vinegar, and paprika in a small bowl, stirring well. Add mayonnaise mixture to bean mixture; toss gently to combine. Arrange 1 cup arugula on each of 4 plates; top each serving with about 1 cup bean mixture. Divide tuna evenly among plates.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Summer Tortellini Salad

2010-08-01T11:48:00.001-04:00

This recipe is just as good without the chicken, or with other veggies subbed for the chicken.

1 (19-oz.) package frozen cheese tortellini
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
2 tablespoons chopped green onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
1/4 cup canola oil
Salt to taste

1. Cook tortellini according to package directions; drain. Plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process; drain and place in large bowl. Stir in chicken and next 5 ingredients.

2. Whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, and herbes de Provence. Add oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly until smooth. Pour over tortellini mixture, tossing to coat. Stir in salt to taste. Cover and chill at least 25 minutes. Garnish, if desired.

--Adapted from Southern Living

All-in-One Spaghetti

2010-08-01T11:44:00.001-04:00

1 pound ground beef
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
3 cups tomato juice
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
2 to 3 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Dash of pepper
1 (7-ounce) package spaghetti, uncooked
Grated Parmesan cheese

Cook first 3 ingredients in a Dutch oven, stirring until beef crumbles and is no longer pink; drain well. Return beef mixture to pan. Stir in tomato sauce and next 8 ingredients; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer, stirring often, 30 minutes.

Add pasta; cover and simmer, stirring often, 20 minutes or until pasta is tender. Serve with cheese, and garnish, if desired.

--adapted from Southern Living

Watermelon Lemonade

2010-08-01T11:40:00.001-04:00

A great way to use up leftover watermelon

1 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 8 large lemons), 4 squeezed lemons reserved
4 cups chopped watermelon

Bring 6 cups water, sugar and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, stirring occasionally. Remove saucepan from heat, add reserved lemons, cover, and let stand for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, puree chopped watermelon in a blender or food processor with 1 cup water.

Pour syrup and watermelon puree through a strainer into a pitcher. Stir in lemon juice. (Lemonade can be made up to 1 day ahead.) Serve over ice.

--

Frozen White Chocolate Cherry Terrine

2010-08-01T11:35:00.003-04:00

This would be just as good with Oreos or another kind of candy bar.

1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
6 (1-ounce) squares white baking bar or white chocolate, chopped
1/3 cup milk
3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries
2 (1.9-ounce) chocolate-coated coconut bars, frozen
2 1/4 cups whipping cream
1/3 cup sifted powdered sugar
Hot fudge topping (optional)

Grease a 9" x 5" x 3" loafpan. Line pan with plastic wrap, making it smooth in pan and allowing it to extend slightly over edges of pan. Set aside.

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat; add pecans. Cook, stirring constantly, until pecans are toasted. Remove from heat; let cool completely.

Place chopped white chocolate in a small bowl. Bring milk to a simmer in a small heavy saucepan over medium-low heat. (Do not boil.) Remove from heat, and pour over chopped chocolate, stirring until chocolate melts. Let cool completely.

Press chopped cherries between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Chop frozen candy bars.

Beat whipping cream at high speed of an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until blended. Gently fold in melted white chocolate mixture, chopped candy bars, and pecans; then fold in cherries.

Spoon mixture into prepared pan; cover and freeze 24 hours. To serve, dip pan in warm water 30 seconds. Invert loafpan onto a serving plate. Peel off plastic wrap. Cut terrine into 3/4" slices. Drizzle fudge topping on each plate, if desired; top with a slice of frozen terrine.

--

Braised Carrots with Orange and Capers

2010-08-01T11:28:00.001-04:00

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound carrots, peeled, ends trimmed, and cut into 2-inch lengths
Sea salt or kosher salt
2/3 cup thinly sliced celery
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 can (14 1/2 oz.) diced tomatoes
1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 orange (including peel), rinsed, ends trimmed, and chopped (discard seeds)
1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons drained capers
2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley

1. Pour 1 tablespoon olive oil into a large frying pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add carrots, sprinkle lightly with salt, and turn to brown on all sides, about 4 minutes total. Remove from pan.

2. Add celery, and garlic to pan; stir often until vegetables are soft but not browned, about 2 minutes. Add tomatoes, chicken broth, orange, thyme, and the carrots to pan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until carrots are very tender when pierced, about 1 hour.

3. Meanwhile, pour remaining tablespoon olive oil into a small frying pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add capers and cook until they begin to peel back, about 1 1/2 minutes.

4. Spoon braised carrots into a serving bowl or onto plates and top with capers and parsley.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Slow-braised Beef Stew with Mushrooms

2010-08-01T11:25:00.001-04:00

This is a lot of work, but worth it.

4 pounds boned, fat-trimmed beef short ribs or chuck
1 orange (2 1/2 in. wide), rinsed
About 1 cup fat-skimmed beef or chicken broth
1 cup dry red wine
1/2 cup port or cream sherry
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
3 or 4 very thin slices (quarter size) peeled fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon Chinese five spice
1 pound mushrooms (1- to 1 1/2-in.-wide caps)
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Salt and pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions

1. Rinse meat; cut into 3- to 4-inch lengths (for chuck, about 1 in. thick and 1 1/2 in. wide) and place in a 5- to 6-quart slow-cooker.

2. With a vegetable peeler, pare orange part of peel from orange and sliver it; save orange for other uses. In a 1 1/2- to 2-quart pan, combine peel, 1 cup broth, wine, port, vinegar, soy sauce, thyme, ginger, and five spice. Bring to a boil over high heat. Pour liquid over meat. Turn slow-cooker to high, cover, and cook until meat is very tender when pierced, 5 to 6 hours.

3. Rinse and drain mushrooms; trim off and discard stem ends. Cut mushrooms in half lengthwise and place in a 10- to 12-inch frying pan; add butter.

4. Skim off and discard fat from liquid in slow-cooker. Ladle 1 cup liquid into pan with mushrooms. Stir mushrooms often over high heat until liquid has evaporated and mushrooms are lightly browned, 13 to 17 minutes.

5. With a slotted spoon, lift meat from juices in slow-cooker and lay in a single layer in a shallow casserole (about 9 by 13 in.). Pour mushrooms over meat. Bake in a 375° regular or convection oven until meat is sizzling and browned, 12 to 15 minutes.

6. Meanwhile, measure remaining liquid from slow-cooker. If less than 2 cups, add beef broth to make 2 cups, pour into a 2- to 3-quart pan, and bring to a boil over high heat; if there is more, pour into pan and boil, stirring occasionally, until reduced to 2 cups, 8 to 12 minutes. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 1/4 cup water. Pour into boiling liquid and stir until thickened, about 30 seconds. Pour evenly over meat and mix gently to blend with liquid in casserole, adding salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with chives.

--Adapted from Southern Living magazine

Pasta with Artichokes and Fresh Ricotta

2010-08-01T11:15:00.001-04:00

1 can chopped artichokes, drained
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic
3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, divided
3 cups uncooked penne rigate pasta (about 12 ounces tube-shaped pasta)
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup fresh whole-milk ricotta cheese
3/4 cup (3 ounces) shaved fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

1. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic to pan; cook 1 minute. Add artichokes and 1/4 teaspoon salt; cover and cook 2 minutes or until artichokes are tender, stirring occasionally.

2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, omitting salt and fat. Drain pasta in a colander over a bowl, reserving 1/2 cup cooking liquid. Combine remaining 1 tablespoon oil, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, artichoke mixture, pasta, reserved cooking liquid, parsley, and pepper in a large bowl, tossing to combine. Add ricotta in spoonfuls, stirring gently to combine. Spoon 1 1/3 cups pasta mixture into each of 6 bowls; top each serving with 2 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Ham and Swiss Loaded Potatoes

2010-08-01T11:10:00.001-04:00

4 baking potatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds)
1 cup diced 33%-less-sodium ham (about 6 ounces)
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese, divided
1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions, divided
1/2 cup fat-free sour cream
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Pierce potatoes with a fork; arrange in a circle on paper towels in microwave oven. Microwave at high 16 minutes or until done, rearranging potatoes after 8 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes.

Preheat broiler.

Cut each potato in half lengthwise; scoop out pulp, leaving a 1/4-inch-thick shell. Combine potato pulp, ham, 1/2 cup cheese, 1/3 cup green onions, sour cream, and pepper.

Spoon the potato mixture into shells. Combine 1/2 cup cheese and remaining green onions, and sprinkle over potatoes. Place potatoes on a baking sheet; broil 4 minutes or until golden.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Asparagus Pasta with Toasted Pecans

2010-08-01T11:06:00.001-04:00

1 (16-ounce) package penne pasta
1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 pound)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped (about 3/4 cup)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup pecan halves, toasted and divided

Prepare pasta according to package directions; rinse and drain.

Snap off tough ends of asparagus, and cut into 2-inch pieces.

Sauté asparagus in hot oil in a large skillet over medium heat 4 minutes. Stir in red bell pepper and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes. Stir in chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 2 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender. Stir in salt and pepper.

Toss together pasta, asparagus mixture, basil, 1/2 cup cheese, butter, and 1/2 cup pecans. Sprinkle evenly with remaining 1/4 cup cheese and 1/2 cup pecans. Garnish, if desired.

--Adapted from Southern Living

Vegetable Donburi over Seasoned Rice

2010-08-01T11:04:00.001-04:00

5 cups water, divided
2 1/2 cups uncooked sushi rice or other short-grain rice
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can vegetable broth
2 1/2 tablespoons miso (soybean paste)
2 1/2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
6 cups thinly sliced shiitake mushroom caps (about 1 pound mushrooms)
1 tablespoon minced peeled fresh ginger
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup shredded carrot
3/4 cup (1-inch) sliced green onions
2 large egg whites
1 large egg

Bring 3 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan; add rice. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 12 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand.

Bring 2 cups water and broth to a boil in a large saucepan. Stir in miso, soy sauce, and sugar. Add mushrooms, ginger, and garlic; reduce heat, and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in carrot and onions; cook 2 minutes.

Whisk egg whites and egg in a small bowl. Gently pour egg mixture into broth mixture (do not stir); cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat; gently stir.

Spoon 1 cup of rice into each of 6 large soup bowls. Ladle 1 cup of the broth mixture evenly over rice.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Pickled Mushrooms

2010-08-01T10:57:00.001-04:00

2 pounds mushrooms (2-in. caps)
1 1/2 cups white wine vinegar
1 dried bay leaf
2 teaspoons black peppercorns
2 teaspoons mustard seed
2 teaspoons dill seed
2 teaspoons salt
2 cloves garlic, crushed

1. Rinse and drain mushrooms; trim off and discard discolored stem ends. Cut mushrooms into quarters through caps.

2. Meanwhile, in a 3- to 4-quart pan over high heat, bring 2/3 cup water, vinegar, bay leaf, peppercorns, mustard seed, dill seed, salt, and garlic to a boil.

3. Add mushrooms. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. Let mixture cool, stirring occasionally. Serve cool or chilled.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Strawberry-Orange Salad

2010-08-01T10:52:00.001-04:00

3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
2 pounds strawberries
4 navel oranges

1. Bring 1 1/2 cups water and sugar to a boil. Cook just until clear, 2 to 3 minutes. Let syrup cool very briefly, then add 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves. Set aside to steep and cool.

2. Rinse and hull strawberries and cut them into quarters (or sixths if very large).

3. With a small, sharp knife, cut ends off oranges. Set 1 orange cut side down on a cutting board. Following its curve with the knife, slice off peel and white pith. Holding orange over a bowl to catch juice, cut between inner membranes and fruit to release segments; drop segments into bowl. Squeeze juice from membranes into bowl and discard membranes. Repeat with remaining oranges.

4. Add strawberries to oranges and pour basil syrup over fruit. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Lemon Rice

2010-08-01T10:47:00.000-04:00

1 garlic clove
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup basmati rice
1 tablespoon grated lemon rind

1. Slightly smash garlic clove using flat side of a knife. Stir together garlic, broth, butter, and salt in a large saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat. Stir in rice; reduce heat to low, and cook, covered, 20 minutes or until broth mixture is absorbed and rice is tender.

2. Remove and discard garlic; stir in lemon rind using a fork.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Seared Mahi-Mahi with Edamame Succotash

2010-08-01T10:43:00.002-04:00

Succotash:
1/4 cup sliced roasted red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar
2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/3 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
1/2 cup frozen shelled edamame (green soybeans), thawed

Mahimahi:
1 teaspoon olive oil
Cooking spray
4 (6-ounce) mahimahi or other firm white fish fillets
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1. Combine pepper, onions, and next 7 ingredients (through garlic), tossing to combine.

2. Combine corn and beans in a small microwave-safe bowl; cover with water. Microwave at HIGH 2 minutes; drain. Add corn mixture to bell pepper mixture; toss to combine

3. To prepare mahimahi, heat 1 teaspoon oil in a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Sprinkle both sides of fish with 1/8 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Add fish to pan; cook 4 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Serve with succotash.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Orzo Salad

2010-08-01T10:36:00.000-04:00

3 cups hot cooked orzo (about 1 1/2 cups uncooked rice-shaped pasta)
1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
3/4 cup (3 ounces) crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 garlic clove, minced

Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, and toss well to coat. Cover bowl and chill for 1 hour.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Mushroom-Herb Risotto

2010-08-01T10:29:00.002-04:00

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds fresh mushrooms, cleaned and thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups arborio or medium-grain white rice
1/2 cup dry white wine
4 1/2 cups fat-skimmed reduced-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese or other dry Italian cheese
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage leaves
1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper

1. Pour oil into a 5- to 6-quart pan over medium-high heat; when hot, add mushrooms and stir often until the liquid has evaporated, 5 to 6 minutes. Add rice and stir until opaque, about 3 minutes.

2. Add wine and stir until it's absorbed, 1 to 2 minutes. Add 4 1/2 cups broth and bring to a boil over high heat, stirring often. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring often until rice is tender to bite, 15 to 20 minutes. If a creamier consistency is desired, stir in about 1/2 cup more broth. Stir in cheese, parsley, sage, tarragon, and thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Deep-dish Taco Pizza

2010-08-01T10:22:00.003-04:00

A kid-friendly picky-eater favorite.

1 pound ground round
1 package taco seasoning
1 (10-ounce) can refrigerated pizza crust dough
Cooking spray
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded reduced-fat sharp Cheddar or part-skim mozzarella cheese
Salsa (optional)
Reduced-fat sour cream (optional)

Preheat oven to 425°.

Cook beef in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until beef is browned, stirring to crumble. Drain well, and return beef mixture to pan. Add seasoning, cook per directions on package.

Unroll pizza crust dough. Press into bottom and halfway up sides of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Spoon beef mixture over pizza crust dough.

Bake at 425° for 12 minutes. Top with cheese, and bake 5 minutes or until cheese melts and edges of crust are browned. Let stand 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm. Top with salsa and sour cream, if desired.

--Adapted from Southern Living

Hot and Sour Soup

2010-08-01T10:19:00.001-04:00

5 dried shiitake mushrooms (about 1/4 ounce)
5 dried wood ear mushrooms (about 1/4 ounce)
1 (32-ounce) carton fat-free, less-sodium vegetable broth
2 1/4 cups water, divided
1 tablespoon minced peeled fresh ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 to 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 pound reduced-fat firm or extrafirm tofu, drained and cut into 1/4-inch cubes
2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
4 large egg whites, lightly beaten
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon dark sesame oil
Chili oil (optional)

Place mushrooms in a medium bowl; cover with boiling water. Cover and let stand 10 minutes or until tender; drain. Thinly slice mushrooms; set aside.

Combine broth, 2 cups water, ginger, and garlic in a large saucepan over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Add mushrooms. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes. Add vinegar, soy sauce, pepper, and tofu; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes.

Combine remaining 1/4 cup water and cornstarch, stirring with a whisk. Stir cornstarch mixture into broth mixture; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 3 minutes or until soup thickens slightly, stirring frequently. Slowly pour egg whites into broth mixture in a steady stream, stirring constantly but gently with a wooden spoon. Remove from heat; stir in onions, cilantro, and sesame oil. Drizzle with chili oil, if desired.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine

Cornbread Panzanella

2010-08-01T10:12:00.002-04:00

8 ounces cornbread, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup sliced roasted red peppers
2 cups sliced radicchio (about 4 ounces)
2 tablespoons capers
1 pound cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium cucumber, halved lengthwise, seeded, and sliced
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves

1. Preheat oven to 350°.

2. Place bread on a jelly-roll pan. Bake at 350° for 10 minutes or until crisp, stirring occasionally.

3. Combine bread, bell peppers, and next 4 ingredients (through cucumber) in a large bowl. Combine vinegar and next 3 ingredients (through black pepper) in a small bowl. Gradually add oil, stirring with a whisk. Pour over bread mixture; toss.

4. Let stand 5-10 minutes or just until bread begins to soften. Sprinkle with basil.

--Adapted from Cooking Light magazine