Vegetarian Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

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Friday, April 29, 2016

Friday Recipes

Enjoy!

HONEY ENERGY BALLS

This, as well as the Chocolate Chip Trail Mix Balls are from Runner's World, and are from the latest Runner's World cookbook. Both recipes can be found online by clicking here.

This recipe begins, “These sweet, crunchy, and slightly chewy bars are the perfect prerun pick-me-up. Honey provide simple sugars (fructose and glucose) that are quickly absorbed and will energize your workout. Honey also contains oligosaccharides, a type of sugar that may promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the intestinal tract. Studies show that these carbohydrates serve as fuel for immune-boosting bacteria in the gut.

“Honey provides simple sugars (fructose and glucose), which are quickly absorbed and offer immediate energy.”

Ingredients

2 large eggs

3 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons canola oil

2 teaspoons grated orange zest

2 cups granola

2/3 cup roughly chopped walnuts

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Coat an 8-inch square baking pan with cooking spray.

In a bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. Whisk in the honey, oil, and zest. Stir in the granola and walnuts. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Spread the mixture in the baking pan and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown and set. Cool for 10 minutes before cutting into 9 squares. Store tightly covered in the refrigerator. Makes 9 squares.

Nutrition Information: Calories per serving: 193; Carbs: 23 g; Fiber: 2 g; Protein: 5 g; Total fat: 10 g; Saturated fat: 1 g; Sodium: 18 mg

CHOCOLATE CHIP TRAIL MIX BALLS

This recipe begins, “Salty and sweet, these tasty little snacks pack the essential components of trail mix—nuts, dried fruit, and, yes, chocolate—into an easily portable package. Not only are they a delicious prerun snack, but they also make for a quick breakfast on the go.

“Salty and sweet, these tasty little snacks pack the essential components of trail mix—nuts, dried fruit, and, yes, chocolate—into an easily portable package. Not only are they a delicious midrun snack, but they also make for a quick breakfast on the go.”

Ingredients

1/2 cup almond butter

1/3 cup agave syrup or honey

1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1/4 cup pumpkin seeds

1/4 cup dark chocolate mini chips

1/4 cup chopped dried tart cherries

1/4 cup sliced almonds

1/2 cup toasted wheat germ

Instructions

In a bowl, with an electric mixer on low speed, mix together the almond butter and agave syrup for 2 minutes, or until smooth and well combined.

With the mixer still on low, gradually add the oats until well combined, followed by the pumpkin seeds. Add the chocolate chips, cherries, and almonds. Mix for about 1 minute on low, or until justcombined.

Line a baking sheet with wax paper. For each ball, use a tablespoon to take a heaping scoop of the mixture and, with your hands, gently roll into a ball. Roll in the wheat germ and set on the baking sheet lined with wax paper.

You can eat the trail mix balls immediately, or transfer any uneaten ones (still on the baking sheet) to the refrigerator for 2 hours, or until set. Transfer the chilled balls to a plastic freezer bag and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Makes 24 balls (2 per serving).

Nutrition Information: Calories per serving: 210; Carbs: 24 g; Fiber: 5 g; Protein: 7 g; Total fat: 11 g; Saturated fat: 2 g; Sodium: 30 mg

ASPARAGUS-PESTO LASAGNA

This is from the April 2006 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “This recipe uses two popular Italian lasagna fillings: asparagus and pesto.” Serves 10.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/asparagus-pesto-lasagna/

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

3 1/2 cups low-fat milk, divided

6 Tbs. pesto*, or more to taste

2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional for garnish, optional

1 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

2 tsp. olive oil

1 1/4 lb. asparagus spears, tips cut off and reserved, spears trimmed and chopped into 1/4-inch pieces

1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 tsp.)

16 no-cook lasagna noodles (9 oz.)

2 cups shredded Fontina or part-skim mozzarella cheese (8 oz.), divided

Preheat oven to 350F. Whisk flour and 1/2 cup milk in saucepan until smooth. Gradually whisk in remaining milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly, and boil 1 minute, or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in pesto, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Reserve 1 cup white sauce.

Warm oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped asparagus (not tips) and cook, stirring often, 5 minutes, or until tender. Add garlic; cook, stirring, 1 minute, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Coat 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Place layer of noodles in dish, overlapping slightly. Layer with half of cooked asparagus, 3/4 cup Fontina and half of sauce. Add another layer of pasta, remaining sauce, remaining cooked asparagus and 3/4 cup Fontina. Top with layer of noodles, then with reserved 1 cup white sauce. Arrange reserved asparagus tips over top and sprinkle with remaining Fontina.

Bake, uncovered, 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden. Let stand 10 minutes; serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

* Look for the freshest, most flavorful pesto in the refrigerator section of the supermarket, packaged in vacuum-sealed bags or in plastic tubs.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 413; Protein: 21 g; Total Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 44 g; Cholesterol: 44 mg; Sodium: 686 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 8 g

HERBED TOFU LASAGNA WITH ZUCCHINI

This also comes from the April 2006 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “Simple, fresh flavors and an innovative way with tofu—it's blended with herbs and seasonings until creamy and ricotta-like—make this lasagna one you'll want to make year-round. The key: Use the best purchased marinara sauce you can find, then drizzle each serving with extra virgin olive oil.” Serves 10.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/herbed-tofu-lasagna-with-zucchini/.

2 14-oz. pkg. firm tofu, well drained

1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

1/3 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley

1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted

2 cloves garlic, peeled

2 Tbs. lemon juice

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

1/4 tsp. sugar

1 Tbs. olive oil

4 medium-size zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch slices (about 3 cups)

5 cups marinara sauce

16 no-cook lasagna noodles (9 oz.)

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Combine tofu, basil, parsley, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, salt, red pepper flakes and sugar in food processor; blend until smooth and similar to ricotta in texture.

Put oil and zucchini in large nonstick skillet. Sauté 3 to 5 minutes over medium-high heat, or until just tender.

Spread 3 Tbs. marinara sauce over bottom of prepared baking dish. Cover with layer of noodles, overlapping slightly, half of tofu mixture and half of zucchini mixture. Top with another layer of noodles, remaining tofu and zucchini, and 1/2 cup sauce. Finish with another layer of noodles and remaining sauce.

Cover with foil, and bake 1 hour. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 314; Protein: 18 g; Total Fat: 12 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 36 g; Sodium: 617 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 10 g; Vegan

PASTA ALLA NORMA - CLASSIC SICILIAN EGGPLANT-PASTA

This comes from Danette St. Onge, About.com’s Italian Food expert. Dante wrote, “Pasta alla Norma is a classic dish originating in the Sicilian city of Catania. Allegedly it was created by a Catanese chef in tribute to the opera 'Norma,' by 19th-century composer Vincenzo Bellini, also from Catania (incidentally, the Bellini aperitivo cocktail made with fresh peaches and prosecco is named after him!). Ricotta salata, a firm, tangy sheep's-milk cheese, is an essential ingredient in this dish. It is quite different from soft and creamy fresh ricotta, though if you can't locate ricotta salata, a mild feta cheese such as French-style feta can be substituted.” Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Total Time: 50 minutes; Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

1 large eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices

Coarse sea salt (Maldon salt works well)

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 teaspoon red chile pepper flakes

One 28-ounce can (or 3 cups) passata di pomodoro (tomato puree)

Fine sea salt, to taste

1 pound penne, rigatoni, or any other short, tube-shaped pasta

8-12 fresh basil leaves, for garnish

3 ounces ricotta salata, coarsely grated

Preparation

Place the eggplant slices on a paper towel-lined tray or baking sheet and lightly sprinkle them with coarse sea salt, to draw out excess water. Set aside for about 10-15 minutes, then thoroughly pat the slices dry with more paper towels.

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the eggplant slices (do not overcrowd) and fry them, turning occasionally, until well browned on both sides, about 10 minutes.

Transfer fried eggplant to a paper towel-lined platter or tray and set aside.

Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and garlic in a saucepan over medium heat until garlic is just golden and fragrant, about 1 minute. Add chile pepper flakes and saute until fragrant, another 30 seconds. Add the tomato puree, bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower heat until sauce is just simmering. Cover and let simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Season to taste with fine sea salt.

Meanwhile, bring salted water for the pasta to boil in a large pot. When boiling, add the pasta and cook until just al dente, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water when draining the pasta.

Return the pasta to the pot, add the tomato sauce and a little of the cooking water (just one spoonful at a time, as necessary) to thin the sauce slightly and help it adhere to the pasta. Toss to coat the pasta and then divide between serving plates. Lay a few slices of fried eggplant on top of each serving of pasta, then top with a generous grating of ricotta salata and a few fresh basil leaves.

Serve immediately.

DEEP-DISH SKILLET PIZZA

This comes from page 37 of the February 2009 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “Try this homemade pizza technique with your favorite toppings as well.” Serves 6.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/deep-dish-skillet-pizza/.

Dough

1 tsp. light brown sugar

1/2 pkg. dry yeast (1/4 oz.)

3/4 cup whole-wheat pastry flour

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 Tbs. flax meal or ground flaxseed

2 tsp. olive oil

3/4 tsp. salt

Topping

2 Tbs. olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)

8 cups loosely packed kale

1 cup sliced mushrooms

1 tsp. ground fennel seed

2 Tbs. Neufchâtel cheese (2 oz.)

1 cup crumbled feta cheese (4 oz.)

12 cherry tomatoes, halved

2 Tbs. chopped fresh oregano or basil

To make Dough: Dissolve brown sugar in 1/2 cup warm water in large bowl. Stir in yeast, and let stand 5 minutes, or until liquid is cloudy and bubbly. Stir in whole-wheat flour, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, flax meal, oil, and salt. Knead 2 minutes while adding 1/4 cup flour. Oil separate bowl, and turn dough in oil to coat. Cover, and let rise in warm spot until dough doubles in size, about 45 minutes.

To make Topping: Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, and sauté 2 minutes. Add kale, cover, and cook 15 minutes, or until kale is softened, stirring occasionally. Add mushrooms and fennel seed, and cook 7 to 10 minutes more, or until all liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat, and stir in Neufchâtel cheese.

Preheat oven to 475°F. Oil bottom and sides of 12-inch cast iron skillet. With floured hands, pat and stretch Dough over bottom and halfway up sides of skillet. Let dough rest 5 minutes. Spread kale mixture on dough; scatter feta cheese, tomatoes, and oregano on top. Place skillet directly on oven floor, and bake 15 minutes. Remove carefully from oven, and let stand 5 minutes before serving.

nutritional information Per Slice: Calories: 274; Protein: 10 g; Total Fat: 14 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 30 g; Cholesterol: 24 mg; Sodium: 566 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 4 g

Thursday, April 28, 2016

Thursday Recipes

Here are six vegetarian recipes to try your hands on. Enjoy!

One of my favorite magazines is Vegetarian Times. The first four recipes are from an article titled "Monday Night Magic," by Maria Lissandrello and photographed by Carin Krasner, in the May 2008 issue, and begins, "Gourmet dinners are great when you’ve got time, but who wants to worry about a long shopping list of ingredients at the start of a busy week? And even the most delectable main dish loses some of its attraction when 'serves six to eight' portions mean having it three nights in a row.

"These recipes make the most of on-hand ingredients for fast, flavorful meals that won’t have you racing to the supermarket after work—or eating leftovers till Friday."

The first four recipes can be found online here.

EDAMAME RICE BOWLS

This recipe begins, “Shelled edamame (soybeans), aren’t just for Asian dishes. Here, they add fresh, subtle flavor to a warm rice salad studded with dried cranberries and olives. For a speedier supper, use instant brown rice in the recipe.” Serves 2.

1/2 cup brown rice

1 8-oz. bag frozen shelled edamame

1/4 cup dried cranberries

2 oz. crumbed feta

10 pitted kalamata olives, halved


3 Tbs. chopped cilantro

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 Tbs. lime juice

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

Bring 1 1/4 cups water to a boil, stir in rice, and season with salt. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 45 minutes, or until rice is tender.

Bring 2 cups salted water to a boil, add edamame, and cook 2 minutes, or until tender; drain and set aside.

Toss together rice, edamame, cranberries, feta, olives, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, and red pepper flakes in large bowl. Season with salt and pepper.

PER SERVING: 540 CAL; 20 G PROT; 24.5 G TOTAL FAT (6 G SAT. FAT); 63 G CARB; 25 MG CHOL; 778 MG SOD; 9 G FIBER; 14 G SUGARS

BROCCOLI-POTATO STRATAS

This recipe begins, “Prepare these individual casseroles the night before, and pop them in the oven when you get home from work.” Serves 2.

1 large or 2 medium sweet potatoes (2 lb.)

2 Tbs. skim milk

Pinch ground nutmeg

1 1/2 cups frozen broccoli florets

1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2/3 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

3 tsp. grated Parmesan cheese, divided

3 Tbs. crushed potato chips, divided

Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat 2 mini-loaf pans or 1 8- x 8-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray. Pierce sweet potatoes with fork, and wrap in plastic wrap. Cook in microwave on high power 10 to 12 minutes, or until soft. Halve, and scoop flesh into bowl. Add milk and nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Mash until smooth.

Place broccoli in glass bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave on high power 3 minutes, or until tender.

Beat together ricotta and egg until smooth and creamy. Add spinach and 1 tsp. Parmesan to egg mixture, and season with salt and pepper.

Spoon half of egg mixture into bottom of each prepared miniloaf pan, dividing equally between 2 pans. Next, layer crumbled chips into each pan, followed by layer of sweet potato mixture and layer of broccoli florets. Top both stratas with remaining Parmesan. Bake 20 minutes, or until stratas have set. Cool 10 minutes, and unmold.

PER SERVING: 582 CAL; 28 G PROT; 18 G TOTAL FAT (8.5 G SAT. FAT); 80 G CARB; 147 MG CHOL; 797 MG SOD; 13 G FIBER; 23 G SUGARS

PITA PANZANELLA

This one begins, “Serve this bread salad with a bowl of soup for a fast, veggie-loaded dinner. You might even want to double the recipe and take leftovers for lunch the next day.” Vegan; Serves 2 in 30 minutes or less.

Panzanella

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 7-inch whole-wheat pita, cut into 8 triangles

2 cups frozen artichoke hearts

3/4 cup frozen fava beans or lima beans

1 1/2 cups frozen peas

Lemon-Mint Dressing

2 Tbs. olive oil

2 Tbs. chopped fresh mint

1 Tbs. lemon juice

2 tsp. grated lemon zest

1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)

Heat olive oil in skillet over high heat. Add pita triangles, and toast 1 minute on each side, or until slightly brown and crisp. Set aside.

Place artichoke hearts in glass dish, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave on high power 4 to 5 minutes, stirring halfway through. Drain, and place in bowl. Microwave fava beans in same glass dish on high power, 5 to 7 minutes, stirring halfway through. Drain, and add to artichokes. Microwave peas in same glass dish on high power, 3 to 4 minutes, stirring midway. Drain, and add to artichokes and fava beans.

To make Lemon-Mint Dressing: Whisk together all ingredients in small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Add Lemon-Mint Dressing and toasted pita triangles to artichoke mixture, and toss to coat. Let stand 5 minutes before serving so pita absorbs flavors.

PER SERVING: 472 CAL; 17 G PROT; 22.5 G TOTAL FAT (3.5 G SAT. FAT); 57 G CARB; 0 MG CHOL; 365 MG SOD; 19 G FIBER; 7 G SUGARS

QUICK PIEROGI BAKE

This recipe begins, “Pierogi are Polish dumplings stuffed with cheese, potatoes, and /or sauerkraut.

“If you can’t find pierogi in the freezer or refrigerator section of your supermarket, substitute cheese-filled ravioli. Serve with prepared sauerkraut, if desired.” Serves 2 in 30 minutes or less.

1 tsp. unsalted butter

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 cup sliced mushrooms

8 refrigerated or frozen cheese pierogi

3 Tbs. shredded low-fat Monterey Jack cheese

2 slices soy bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 Tbs. fat-free sour cream, optional

Preheat broiler. Coat 6- x 2-inch round pan with cooking spray.

Heat butter in skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion in butter 3 minutes, or until translucent. Add mushrooms, and season with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high, and cook 4 minutes, or until mushrooms have wilted, stirring often.

Reduce heat to medium, add pierogi, and sauté 3 minutes, or until pierogi are browned on both sides. Transfer pierogi to prepared pan. Spoon onion and mushrooms on top, and sprinkle with cheese and crumbled soy bacon. Broil 6 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown. Serve with dollops of sour cream, if desired.

PER SERVING: 328 CAL; 18 G PROT; 7.5 G TOTAL FAT (4 G SAT. FAT); 49 G CARB; 18 MG CHOL; 851 MG SOD; 2 G FIBER; 3 G SUGARS

PUMPKIN PUDDING

This comes from the January 2005 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “The holidays are fading fast, but that doesn’t mean that the season’s favorites—pumpkins and cranberries—have to go with them. This easy-to-assemble pudding is just as good warm or chilled.” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/pumpkin-pudding/.

2 cups vanilla soymilk

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 cup instant tapioca pearls

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, or to taste

Pinch of salt

1 15-oz. can pumpkin purée

2 cups mixed dried fruits, including cranberries, raisins and apples

1 cup toasted pecan halves, as garnish, optional

Put 1 1/2 cups soymilk and vanilla extract into saucepan, and stir in tapioca pearls. Stir remaining 1/2 cup soymilk with cornstarch, and, when well mixed, stir cornstarch mixture into tapioca mixture. Let sit 5 minutes.

Heat soymilk mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until pudding begins to thicken, about 7 minutes. Whisk in sugar and salt, stirring to remove any lumps.

Stir in pumpkin purée and dried fruit. Continue cooking and stirring 2 minutes more. Remove from heat, and spoon into heatproof serving bowl. Serve warm, or refrigerate.

To serve, garnish with toasted pecans, if using.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 290; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 67 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 41 g; Vegan

TRIPLE DARK CHOCOLATE TART

This comes from the April 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 78. It starts off, “Cocoa nibs are roasted cocoa beans that have been crushed into small pieces.” Serves 12.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/triple-dark-chocolate-tart/.

Cocoa Nib Crust

1 1/2 cups flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/8 tsp. salt

6 Tbs. butter, softened

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

2 tsp. cocoa nibs, optional

Fudge Filling

12 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1 12-oz. can reduced-fat evaporated milk

1 Tbs. butter

1 tsp. vanilla extract

To make Cocoa Nib Crust: Sift flour, cocoa powder, and salt into medium bowl. Set aside. Beat butter and confectioners’ sugar with electric mixer until soft and creamy. Beat in flour mixture just until combined. Add vanilla extract and 2 Tbs. water; mix with spatula until soft dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap, and chill 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 400°F. Use cooking spray to coat 8-inch fluted tart pan with removable bottom. Roll chilled dough to 1/8-inch-thick circle on well-floured work surface. Transfer to prepared tart pan, press in bottom and sides, and trim edges. Use excess dough to repair any cracks or holes. Sprinkle cocoa nibs, if desired, over bottom of crust, and gently press into crust with fingers. Cover crust with parchment paper, and weigh down with uncooked rice or beans. Reduce oven heat to 350°F and bake 7 minutes. Remove parchment and rice or beans, and bake 5 to 7 minutes more, or until dry and pale brown. Cool.

To make Fudge Filling: Place chocolate in large heat-proof bowl. Bring evaporated milk to a boil in saucepan. Remove from heat, and pour over chocolate, whisking until smooth. Whisk in butter and vanilla extract. Pour filling into crust, and cool, then refrigerate 2 hours or more. Remove tart from pan, and serve.

nutritional information Per Slice: Calories: 312; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 20 g; Saturated Fat: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 36 g; Cholesterol: 23 mg; Sodium: 107 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 18 g

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Wednesday Recipes

Enjoy!

FAST FRENCH APPLE TART

This comes from the April 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “Slicing apples on a mandoline makes a pâtisserie-style apple tart a snap. The thin, even slices come out of the oven meltingly tender—not mushy.” Serves 8.

To view this online, click here.

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (1/2 17.3-oz. pkg.)

7 medium tart apples, peeled and cored

2 Tbs. lemon juice

1/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup apricot jam

Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat 9-inch pie dish or fluted tart pan with cooking spray. Roll out puff pastry into 11-inch square on floured work surface. Press puff pastry into prepared pan, and trim excess dough from edges. Prick bottom all over with fork, and refrigerate until ready to use.

Slice apples into 1/8-inch-thick rounds (with hole in middle) using mandoline. Toss apple slices in lemon juice in bowl.

Place apple slices in overlapping concentric circles on puff pastry, starting from outside and working toward center. Make sure to cover holes in apple slices, and overlap each row by 1/3 inch to prevent apples from shrinking as they cook. Sprinkle with 2 Tbs. sugar. Repeat layering and sprinkling process once more, and finish with a layer of apples. Bake 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 325°F, and bake 30 to 40 minutes more, or until crust is golden brown. Cool on wire rack.

Bring jam and 2 Tbs. water to a boil in small saucepan. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer 1 minute. Strain into small bowl. Brush over tart while jam is still hot.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 265; Protein: 2 g; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Carbohydrates: 42 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 75 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 23 g; vegan

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND CHICKPEA STEW WITH COUSCOUS

This also comes from the April 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “Prepared creamy soups like butternut squash, corn, and potato-leek make great bases for hearty stews that sneak an extra veggie serving past picky eaters.” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

2 Tbs. olive oil

1 medium carrot, diced (3/4 cup)

1 small onion, diced (1 cup)

1/2 red bell pepper, chopped (1/2 cup)

1 Tbs. whole cumin seeds

1 bay leaf, crumbled

2 16-oz. cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained, divided

1 32-oz. container butternut squash soup, divided

1 1/2 cups couscous

Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Sauté carrot in oil 3 to 5 minutes, or until softened. Add onion and bell pepper, and sauté 3 to 5 minutes more, or until soft. Stir in cumin seeds and bay leaf.

Purée 3/4 cup chickpeas and 3/4 cup butternut squash soup in blender until smooth. Add to carrot mixture along with remaining chickpeas and soup. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, place couscous in heat-proof bowl, and stir in 1 1/2 cups boiling water. Cover, and let stand 3 to 5 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed. Fluff couscous with fork. Divide couscous among 6 shallow bowls. Ladle chickpea stew around couscous in each bowl.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 480; Protein: 15 g; Total Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 87 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 645 mg; Fiber: 11 g; Sugar: 11 g; Vegan

“BAKED” GRANOLA APPLES

This recipe, as well as the Good Morning Sweet Potato are from Runner's World, and are from the latest Runner's World cookbook. Both recipes can be found online by clicking here.

The recipe begins, “The secret behind getting these 'baked' apples on the table fast? Cooking them in the microwave, which quickly steams the fruit until perfectly tender. Braeburn, Cortland, or Rome varieties work just as well as Gala. Use a spoon or melon baller to core the halved apples. Top the finished dish with a dollop of yogurt for a protein and calcium boost.

“Cooked apples get topped with sugar and cinnamon, plus granola for extra carbs. If you like, add a dollop of yogurt to the finished dish for a protein boost.”

Ingredients

2 large crisp apples, such as Gala, halved and cored

2 tablespoons chopped dried tart cherries

1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

4 teaspoons butter

1/2 cup granola

Instructions

In a microwavable dish, arrange the apple halves cut side up.

Top each apple half evenly with the tart cherries and brown sugar. Sprinkle with the cinnamon and nutmeg. Dot evenly with the butter.

Cover the apples with a microwavable dome lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Microwave on high for about 4 minutes, or until the apples are tender.

Transfer the apples to serving bowls and sprinkle each apple half evenly with the granola. Drizzle any juices remaining in the cooking dish over the top. Serves 4.

Nutrition Information: Calories per serving: 181; Carbs: 29 g; Fiber: 5 g; Protein: 2 g; Total fat: 7 g; Saturated fat: 4 g; Sodium: 38 mg

GOOD MORNING SWEET POTATO

This recipe begins, “Sweet potatoes for breakfast? Absolutely. These carb-packed vegetables are loaded with runner-friendly nutrients—and provide a welcome break from typical morning fare.

“The flavors in this recipe will remind you of Thanksgiving,” says Mark Bittman, Runner's World contributing food writer.”

Ingredients

1 medium sweet potato

1/4 cup chopped walnuts

1 tablespoon maple syrup

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Pierce the sweet potato all over with a fork. Microwave on high for 5 to 10 minutes, turning over once or twice, or until the center is soft.

Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine the walnuts, maple syrup, and salt. Cook over medium-low heat until the nuts are coated and fragrant.

Slice open the top of the potato lengthwise, leaving the bottom intact. Mash the nut mixture on top. Serves 1.

Nutrition Information: Calories per serving: 355; Carbs: 44 g; Fiber: 6 g; Protein: 7 g; Total fat: 19 g; Saturated fat: 2 g; Sodium: 220 mg

MOROCCAN SEVEN-VEGETABLE COUSCOUS

This recipe is from the March 2005 issue of Vegetarian Times The recipe states, “To many Americans, couscous refers to the tiny pearls of semolina we've come to know and love. But in Morocco, it is also the proper name for a time-honored stew, rich with vegetables and the flavors—saffron, cinnamon, turmeric—of North Africa. This is a terrific, relaxed party dish—easy to make, fun to eat and meant for a gathering.” Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

2 Tbs. unsalted butter

2 Tbs. olive oil

2 large onions, quartered and cut in 1/2-inch slices

2 pinches saffron threads

1 pinch crushed red pepper

1/2 tsp. ground turmeric

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. ground ginger

1 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper

3 sprigs parsley and 3 sprigs cilantro, tied in a bundle with kitchen string

4 fresh or canned tomatoes, peeled, seeded and quartered

1 qt. vegetable stock

3 cups water

1 turnip, peeled and cut in 1-inch cubes

1/2 lb. carrots, peeled, halved length-wise and cut in 2-inch sticks

3/4 lb. butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut in 1 1/2-inch chunks

1 medium-sized zucchini, quartered lengthwise and cut in 2-inch sticks

1 cup raisins

1 14-oz. can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

2 Tbs. granulated sugar

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 cups quick-cooking couscous, uncooked

1/2 cup blanched slivered almonds, toasted

Heat butter and olive oil in stockpot over medium heat. Add onions, and cook 15 minutes. Stir in saffron, crushed red pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger and black pepper. Sauté 5 minutes. Add herbs, tomatoes, stock and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and cook 10 minutes.

Add turnip, carrots and squash. Bring to a boil, and cook 10 minutes. Add zucchini, raisins, chickpeas and sugar. Cook 10 minutes more, or until vegetables are tender. Add salt and pepper.

Cook couscous according to package directions. Mound couscous on large serving platter, and make a well in center. Use slotted spoon to transfer vegetables to well. Ladle stock over entire dish. Sprinkle with toasted almonds. Serve immediately.

nutritional information per serving: Calories: 590; Protein: 17 g; Total Fat: 15 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 103 g; Cholesterol: 10 mg; Sodium: 460 mg; Fiber: 12 g; Sugar: 30 g

FUNNEL CAKES

Who doesn’t love love funnel cakes? Now you can make them any time. This recipe comes from all recipes and is from someone named Tarmia, who wrote, “You don't need to wait for the county fair to enjoy delicious old-fashioned funnel cakes. You just need a funnel with a 1/2-inch opening that can hold a cup of batter." Time: 20 minutes; Prep: 10 minutes; Cook: 10 minutes; makes 6 servings.

To view this online, go to http://allrecipes.com/recipe/18505/funnel-cakes/.

Ingredients

8 cups vegetable oil for frying

1 1/2 cups milk

2 eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup confectioners' sugar

Directions

In a deep-fryer, or heavy skillet, heat oil to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

In a large bowl, beat milk and eggs together. Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. Stir into the egg mixture until smooth.

While covering the funnel hole with one hand, pour in 1 cup of batter. Start from the center in a swirling motion to make a 6 or 7 inch round. Fry on both sides until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar and serve warm.

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Tuesday Recipes

Enjoy!

PARMESAN-CAULIFLOWER FRITTERS

This comes from the May 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, "Forget the spattering oil and careful flipping that fritters usually call for. These disks crisp up perfectly in the oven—no turning required. Quinoa supplies extra crunch, to play off the tenderness of the cauliflower." Serves 6 (makes 18 fritters)

To view this online, click here.

1/2 cup quinoa

1/2 tsp. salt

8 oz. cauliflower florets

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 large eggs

2 Tbs. chopped Italian parsley

2 Tbs. breadcrumbs

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

Prepared tomato-and-basil sauce, warmed

Coat baking sheet with cooking spray. Heat saucepan over high heat. Add quinoa, and cook 3 minutes, or until quinoa begins to pop, stirring constantly. Add 1 cup water and salt. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 10 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Cool.

Meanwhile, cook cauliflower in boiling water 8 minutes, or until tender. Drain, and break into small pieces.

Preheat oven to 450°F. Mix quinoa, cauliflower, Parmesan, eggs, parsley, breadcrumbs, and pepper in large bowl (mixture will be moist and loose). Shape into 3-inch patties. Arrange patties on prepared baking sheet, and bake 20 minutes, or until fritters are golden brown. Serve with tomato-basil sauce.

nutritional information: Per SERVING: Calories: 110; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 4 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Cholesterol: 73 mg; Sodium: 294 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 1 g

CRUNCH CROQUE PROVENCAL

This comes from the May 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, "Feel free to substitute your favorite cheese or a good melting vegan cheese, such as Vegan Gourmet Cheese Alternatives (a VT fave), in place of the Gruyère." Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

2 Tbs. coarse-grain mustard

8 slices whole-wheat French bread, cut 1/2-inch thick

3 oz. reduced-fat Gruyère cheese, sliced or shredded

4 thin slices red onion, rings separated

8 fresh basil leaves

8 thin slices tomato

1/2 cup low-fat milk

2 large egg whites

Preheat oven to 450°F. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray.

Spread mustard over 4 bread slices. Top each slice with cheese, 1 onion ring, 2 basil leaves, and 2 tomato slices. Season with salt and pepper. Top with remaining bread slices.

Whisk together milk and egg whites in shallow dish. Season with salt and pepper. Soak both sides of sandwiches in milk mixture until liquid is absorbed.

Transfer sandwiches to prepared baking sheet, and bake 10 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 274; Protein: 16 g; Total Fat: 8.5 g; Saturated Fat: 4.5 g; Carbohydrates: 34 g; Cholesterol: 25 mg; Sodium: 764 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 4 g

VEGAN ROASTED BANANA ICE CREAM

This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “A combination of coconut milk, homemade cashew milk and cocoa butter gives this dairy-free ice cream its particularly luscious, creamy texture. Ripe bananas, roasted with brown sugar and coconut oil until caramelized and golden, add a deep butterscotch-like note. You’ll need to start this at least one day before you plan to serve it. Or make it up to a week ahead. Chopped bittersweet chocolate makes a fine substitute for the walnuts, or use 1/3 cup of each.” Time: 1 1/2 hours, plus chilling; makes about 1 1/2 quarts.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups raw, unsalted cashews

4 medium bananas, preferably somewhat speckled but not brown, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch slices

6 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons extra-virgin coconut oil

2 tablespoons dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon kosher salt

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup cocoa butter, available at baking supply stores and online

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons coconut milk

1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted (optional)

Preparation

To make the cashew milk, place the cashews in a large bowl and add water to cover by a couple of inches. Soak cashews overnight.

In the morning, drain the cashews and place them in a blender with about 1 3/4 cups fresh water. Blend until smooth. If you use a Vitamix, there will be no need to strain – the milk will be perfectly smooth; for other blenders, check the consistency and, if necessary, strain the cashew milk through a fine-mesh strainer. Cashew milk will keep well, covered and refrigerated, for up to 4 days.

To roast the bananas, heat the oven to 400 degrees with a rack in the middle. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, toss the bananas, 2 tablespoons coconut oil, brown sugar and pinch of salt. Spread on prepared baking sheet and bake until caramelized, about 15 to 25 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool completely.

Put 1/4 cup water into a small saucepan over medium to low heat. Add sugar and cook, stirring frequently, until sugar has dissolved. Add cocoa butter, remaining 4 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons coconut oil and remaining salt. Stir until melted.

Pour the sugar mixture into in a food processor (or use a tall 2-quart container and an immersion blender), and add the coconut milk and 1 cup cashew milk. Blend until smooth. Add roasted bananas and blend again to combine until very smooth. Cover and refrigerate the ice cream base until chilled, 1 to 2 hours.

Freeze in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In the last minute of churning, add toasted walnuts, if desired, and churn until incorporated. Transfer the ice cream to a storage container and freeze up to 7 days. Alternatively, you can serve it immediately. It will be the consistency of soft-serve.

HERBED CARROT SOUP



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



2 pounds of carrots, chopped

1 large onion, diced

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

2 cloves garlic, crushed

4 Tbs of butter

6 C of vegetable stock

Freshly grated mace or nutmeg

Salt & pepper to taste

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

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

VEGAN THAI CURRY VEGETABLES

This comes from Elaine Louie in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Elaine wrote, "Drew Spangler Faulkner, a cooking teacher at L’Academie de Cuisine in Bethesda, Md., makes a Thai green curry that is a kind of Asian comfort food. The sauce, made creamy with coconut milk, and gently spicy with the curry paste, is flavorful yet soothing. The vegetables, which are simply dropped into the sauce, and gently simmered for about 12 minutes, turn out tender, not soggy. It is startlingly simple. She makes her own green curry paste, but the recipe calls for any one of three store bought pastes. Although some green curry pastes contain fish or shrimp paste, she has found three brands which do not: Thai Taste, Maesri and Thai Kitchen." Time: 1 hour; makes 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

One 13 1/2-ounce can coconut milk (do not shake can)

1/2 cup vegetable stock

4 teaspoons soy sauce

4 teaspoons palm sugar or brown sugar

6 tablespoons Thai green curry paste, like Thai Taste, Maesri, and Thai Kitchen, none of which have shrimp or fish paste

1/2 cup diced (1/2 inch) onion

2/3 cup diced (1/2 inch) red bell pepper

2/3 cup diced (1/2 inch) zucchini or other summer squash

2/3 cup diced (1/2 inch) peeled sweet potato

2/3 cup sliced bamboo shoots, rinsed and drained

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2 inch lengths

2/3 cup diced (1/2 inch) Asian eggplant

1 lime

8 large basil leaves, cut into thin chiffonade

Preparation

Open the can of coconut milk without shaking it. Spoon 6 tablespoons of the coconut cream from the top of the can into a medium saucepan. Pour remaining contents of can into a medium bowl, and mix well. In a medium bowl, combine vegetable stock, soy sauce, and palm or brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

Place saucepan of coconut cream over medium-high heat until it begins to bubble. Add curry paste and reduce heat to medium-low. Stir constantly until very fragrant, about 3 minutes; adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. Add onion, red pepper, zucchini, sweet potato, bamboo shoots, green beans, and eggplant. Stir until vegetables are hot, 2-3 minutes. Stir in coconut milk, bring the mixture to a boil, and reduce heat to low. Simmer, uncovered, until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.

Add the soy sauce mixture and a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice to taste; you may use the juice of an entire lime. Stir and mix well. Add up to 1/4 cup water if the curry seems too thick.

To serve, place the curry in a warm serving bowl and garnish with the basil chiffonade. If desired, serve over jasmine rice.

CHIPOTLE ASPARAGUS QUESADILLAS

This comes from the April/May 2014 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 34. It begins, “Canned chipotles in adobo sauce lend mellow, smoky heat to quesadillas. Leftover chipotles (there are usually four or five in a can) can be wrapped in plastic wrap and frozen for future use.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

Quesadillas

1 lb. asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (2 cups)

1 red bell pepper, sliced (1 cup)

1 medium onion, sliced (1 cup)

1 1/2 tsp. olive oil or vegetable oil

1 tsp. dried oregano

4 8-inch sprouted-grain tortillas

Chipotle Spread

3 Tbs. vegan mayonnaise

2 tsp. minced, drained chipotles in adobo sauce

1 Tbs. lime or lemon juice

Preheat oven to 425°F.

To make Quesadillas: Toss together asparagus, bell pepper, onion, oil, and oregano in large bowl. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Spread on large baking sheet, and roast 10 to 12 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and beginning to brown, stirring once or twice.

Meanwhile, to make Chipotle Spread: blend all ingredients in blender or food processor until smooth.

Spread 1 1/2 tsp. Chipotle Spread on one side of each tortilla, spreading all the way out to edges. Top with 2/3 cup filling on one half of each tortilla, then fold over tortillas, pressing edges together to enclose filling and form half-moons.

Coat large skillet with cooking spray, and heat over medium heat. Cook each quesadilla in skillet 2 to 3 minutes, turning once.

nutritional information Per Quesadilla: Calories: 273; Protein: 8 g; Total Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 32 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 235 mg; Fiber: 8 g; Sugar: 3 g; Vegan

Monday, April 25, 2016

Meatless Monday Recipes

Here are today's six vegetarian recipes. Enjoy!

GARLICKY OVEN FRIES

This comes from the May 2008 issue of Vegetarian TImes, and begins, "Presoaking potato slices in hot water helps remove excess starch so they brown and crisp like oil-cooked fries." Serves 4.

To view this online, click here.

1 1/2 lb. russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch-thick wedges

2 tsp. canola oil

2 tsp. olive oil

4 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped

1 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley

Place oven rack in lowest position, and preheat oven to 475°F. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray. Soak potatoes in bowl of hot water 10 minutes. Drain, pat dry, and return to dry bowl.

Meanwhile, heat canola oil, olive oil, and garlic in saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook garlic 2 minutes, or until it begins to brown. Transfer garlic to small bowl with slotted spoon.

Pour oil over potatoes, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Arrange potatoes in single layer on prepared baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes, or until potatoes are golden on bottom. Turn, and bake 10 minutes more, or until golden and crisp.

Meanwhile, stir parsley into reserved garlic; sprinkle over fries. Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 167; Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 4.5 g; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Carbohydrates: 29 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 298 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 5 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

MINTY WINTER TABBOULEH

This recipe is from the February 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 27. It begins, “Chopped fresh herbs are the dominant ingredient in this grain salad. For beautiful bouquets of fresh peppermint at bargain prices, shop for the herb at Asian grocery stores.” Serves 8.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/minty-winter-tabbouleh/.

3/4 cup bulgur

2 cups tightly packed fresh peppermint leaves

2 cups tightly packed fresh parsley leaves

1 small red onion, peeled and quartered

1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)

2 cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and diced (2 cups)

1/3 cup chopped toasted hazelnuts

6 oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, rinsed, patted dry, and minced, plus 3 Tbs. oil from jar

1/4 cup lemon juice

Cook bulgur according to package directions. Cool; transfer to bowl.

Pulse peppermint, parsley, onion, and garlic in food processor until finely chopped.

Stir peppermint mixture, cucumbers, hazelnuts, sun-dried tomatoes and oil, and lemon juice into bulgur. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Chill 30 minutes, or overnight.

nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 165; Protein: 5 g; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 35 mg; Fiber: 7 g; Sugar: 2 g; Vegan

BUTTER-BRAISED ASPARAGUS

This is from David Tanis in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. He wrote, “For the first-of-the-season asparagus, keep it simple with butter, lemon and sweet herbs. For the best texture, peeling the stalks really makes a difference.” Time:20 minutes; makes 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds large or medium asparagus

6 tablespoons butter

Salt and pepper

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon snipped chives

1 tablespoon roughly chopped parsley or chervil

1 teaspoon chopped tarragon, plus more for garnish

1 tablespoon chopped dill, plus more for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Snap off and discard the tough bottoms of the asparagus spears. If using large, thick asparagus, peel the lower ends with a vegetable peeler.

Put butter in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Add asparagus in one layer and season with salt and pepper. Add 1/2 cup water, cover, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the asparagus is firm-tender, about 3 minutes. Take care not to overcook them; they should still be bright green. (They will continue to cook a bit once the heat is off.) Remove the asparagus from the pan and place on a serving platter.

Turn heat to high and simmer briskly until most of the liquid has evaporated, a minute or so. Add lemon juice and zest to the buttery juices. Turn off heat and stir in chives, parsley, tarragon and dill, if using. Check seasoning. Spoon the sauce over the asparagus, garnish with a few herb leaves, and serve.

RHUBARB STRAWBERRY COBBLER

This came in a Taste of Home e-newsletter, and was sent in by Susan Emery of Everett, Washington. Susan wrote, “Mom's yummy cobbler is a truly wonderful finale to any meal. This sweet-tart family favorite is chock-full of berries and rhubarb and has a thick easy-to-make crust.” Total Time: Prep: 20 minutes; Bake: 40 minutes; Yield: 8 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1-1/3 cups sugar

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

4 cups sliced fresh or frozen rhubarb, thawed (1/2-inch pieces)

2 cups halved fresh strawberries

2 tablespoons butter, cubed

Crust:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

2/3 cup canola oil

1/3 cup warm water

1 tablespoon 2% milk

1 tablespoon sugar

Vanilla ice cream, optional

Directions

Preheat oven to 425°. In a large bowl, mix sugar and flour. Add fruit; toss to coat. Transfer to a greased 11x7-in. baking dish. Dot with butter.

For crust, in a bowl, mix flour and salt. In another bowl, whisk oil and water; add to flour mixture, stirring with a fork until a dough is formed (dough will be sticky).

Roll dough between two pieces of waxed paper into an 11x7-in. rectangle. Remove top piece of waxed paper; invert rectangle over filling. Gently peel off waxed paper. Brush pastry with milk; sprinkle with sugar.

Bake 40-50 minutes or until golden brown. If desired, serve with ice cream.

Editor's Note: If using frozen rhubarb, measure rhubarb while still frozen, then thaw completely. Drain in a colander, but do not press liquid out.

SPAGHETTI SAUCE

This can be found in my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.

28 oz. can tomatoes (see note)

2 8 oz. cans tomato sauce

2 6 oz. cans tomato paste

3 onions, chopped

3 to 5 cloves garlic, crushed

2 T oil

1 T oregano

1/4 - 1/2 lb. grated cheddar cheese

1 tsp. basil

1 tsp. thyme

1 tsp. dill

1 tsp. anise

2 T honey

Brown onions & garlic in oil. Add tomatoes, sauce & pasted. Stir. Add everything except cheese & stir. Simmer 1 hour. Add cheese & stir until cheese is melted. Serve over hot spaghetti. Better the next day—if any is left! Sauce also freezes well, if you'd like to make extras for a future meal.

NOTE: I usually use crushed tomatoes. If you’d rather use fresh tomatoes, 6-8 large ones may be used (diced, of course) in place of the canned tomatoes, & add an extra can of tomato sauce.

Note:If you want to make it vegan, leave the honey out and use grated vegan cheese.

MINESTRONE SOUP

Yield: 4 servings (about 1 cup each)

Source: "Cooking with The Diabetic Chef"

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/23.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 medium onion, finely diced

1/4 medium carrot, finely diced

1/4 stalk celery, finely diced

2/3 teaspoon garlic, minced

2 tablespoons leeks, finely diced

3 ounces (about 1/3 cup) canned tomatoes, chopped

1/2 medium zucchini, diced

1/4 teaspoon fresh thyme

3/4 teaspoon fresh oregano, minced

3 cups chicken stock

3 ounces (about 1/2 cup) frozen spinach, chopped

3/4 cup white beans, cooked

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon white pepper

1 teaspoon Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are slightly tender, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the garlic and leek and cook for 1 minute. Add the tomato, zucchini, thyme, oregano, and chicken stock. Bring the liquid to a simmer for 20 minutes.

Add the spinach and white beans. Return the liquid to a simmer for 20 minutes. Season with the salt and white pepper. Serve immediately and garnish with the Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (about 1 cup): Calories: 110, Fat: 3 g, Cholesterol: 3 mg, Sodium: 283 mg, Carbohydrate: 15 g, Dietary Fiber: 5 g, Sugars: 3 g, Protein: 7 g, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Lean Meat, 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

Friday, April 22, 2016

Friday Recipes

Here are six vegetarian recipes to take you into the weekend. Enjoy!

LEMONY MINTED ASPARAGUS WITH SAFFRON RICE

This is from the April/May 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 30. It begins, “With fresh mint and lemon zest accenting asparagus spears, this stir-fry captures the brightness of spring. If you can’t find toasted sliced almonds, toast your own for 3 to 5 minutes in a 300°F oven.” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

1 1/2 cups white rice

3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

1 pinch saffron threads

1 Tbs. vegetable oil

9 green onions, sliced into

1/4-inch lengths (2/3 cup)

1–2 small fresh red chiles, thinly sliced (1 Tbs.)

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 1/2 lb. asparagus spears, cut diagonally into 1-inch lengths (3 1/2 cups)

1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds

1/4 cup sliced mint leaves

2 lemons, cut into wedges, for garnish

Combine rice and broth in large saucepan, and crumble in saffron threads. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 20 minutes. Remove from heat, and let stand, covered, 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat wok over high heat, until water droplets evaporate within 1 second. Add oil, swirl to coat pan, then add green onions, chiles, and garlic; stir-fry 1 to 2 minutes, or until onions turn bright green and soften. Add asparagus, and stir-fry 2 minutes more, or until asparagus is bright green and tender. Remove from heat, stir in almonds and mint, and season with salt and pepper, if desired.

Fluff rice, and spoon onto serving plate. Top with asparagus mixture. Garnish with lemon wedges.

nutritional information Per 1 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 276; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 47 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 81 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 3 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

AVOCADO-SPINACH PANINI

This is from the July/August 2011 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 36. It begins, “Smoked sun-dried tomatoes give this sandwich a meaty taste and texture.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

2 avocados, halved and thinly sliced

1/3 cup julienned, smoked sun-dried tomatoes (1 oz.)

2 Tbs. diced red onion

2 cups lightly packed baby spinach

4 4-oz. ciabatta rolls, split in half

Layer avocado slices, tomatoes, onion, and 1/2 cup spinach on each roll. Spray panini with cooking spray.

Coat skillet or grill pan with cooking spray, and heat over medium heat. Place panini in pan; weight with smaller-diameter saucepan weighted with 1 or 2 cans. Cook 2 minutes, remove weight, flip panini, replace weight, and cook 1 1/2 to 2 minutes more. (Or cook 4 minutes in panini maker.)

nutritional information Per Sandwich: Calories: 390; Protein: 12 g; Total Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 65 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 528 mg; Fiber: 8 g; Sugar: 3 g; Vegan

BAKED RISOTTO WITH WINTER SQUASH

This comes from David Tanis in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. David wrote, “This is not a classic stirred risotto, in which broth is added little by little, requiring the cook to stir and stir. Instead, the rice is tossed with squash and cheese then baked under a layer of bread crumbs until fragrant and browned on top. Welcome as a hearty meatless main course, it may also be served alongside a roasted chicken. Use any kind of hard winter squash, such as butternut, kabocha or Hubbard.” Time: 1 hour; Makes 6 to 8 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1/2 pound winter squash

1 pound Carnaroli or Arborio rice

4 tablespoons butter, plus 2 tablespoons for greasing dish

1 medium onion, diced, about 1 cup

1 medium leek, white and tender green part, diced, about 1 cup

Pinch of saffron (optional)

Salt and pepper

3 cups squash broth (see note) or chicken broth, hot

8 ounces Gruyère or Fontina, grated, about 2 loosely packed cups

1 cup fresh ricotta

4 ounces Parmesan, grated, about 3/4 cup

2 teaspoons lemon zest

1 cup coarse dry bread crumbs

3 tablespoons chopped parsley

Preparation

Peel squash and cut into very thin slices, 1/16-inch thick. Then cut slices into flat 2-inch squares. (Reserve the scraps, including peels, to make squash stock if desired.)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rice and let simmer for 8 minutes so it is parcooked, with the grains still hard in the center. Drain rice in a colander, rinse with cold water, then spread on a baking sheet to cool. Heat oven to 375 degrees.

In a Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add leek and saffron, if using, and stir to coat. When leek is softened but still green, after 2 minutes, add squash, stir to coat and turn off heat. Season well with salt and pepper.

Add parcooked rice, hot broth, Gruyère, ricotta, Parmesan and lemon zest, mixing gently with a wooden spoon. Pour rice mixture into a buttered 3-quart baking dish.

Sprinkle top with bread crumbs, pressing down to smooth surface. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Tent with foil if necessary. Garnish with parsley just before serving.

LOW-FAT VEGAN EGGPLANT LASAGNA

This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian food expert. She writes, "A wonderful vegetarian lasagna recipe full of healthy spinach and eggplant. This vegetarian and vegan lasagna recipe uses no cheese, making it both vegan and dairy-free, as well as much lower in fat than a traditional lasagna." Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1 medium eggplant, diced

2 10 ounce packages frozen chopped spinach, defrosted

1 64 ounce jar pre-made tomato sauce

1 pound lasagna noodles

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Heat the olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Sautee the garlic for two minutes, then add the eggplant and stir. Cover the frying pan and cook until the eggplant is just tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Cover the bottom of a 9x12 inch baking pan with 2 cups of the tomato sauce, then cover the tomato sauce with 4 or 5 uncooked noodles. Cover this with a thin layer of sauce, then add the cooked eggplant and another thin layer of sauce. Add another layer of noodles followed by a thing layer of sauce, then the spinach and another thin layer of sauce. Add the remaining noodles and sauce.

Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes. Noodles are cooked when they can be pierced with a fork.

Makes six servings of eggplant and spinach lasagna. Reprinted with permission from The Compassionate Cook Cookbook.

Nutritional information, per serving: Calories: 347, Calories from Fat: 41; % Daily Value: Total Fat: 4.6g, 7%, Total Carbohydrates: 65.8g, 22%, Dietary Fiber: 9.2g, 37%, Protein: 16.3g, Vitamin A 199%, Vitamin C 83%, Calcium 14%, Iron 32%

VEGETARIAN TACO SOUP IN THE CROCKPOT

This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com's Vegetarian Food expert. She writes, “I love Mexican food. Or, perhaps it's more accurate to say I love Mexican-American food. Or rather, I love both! This vegetarian taco soup recipe isn't going to win any awards of authenticity, but it's quick to prepare (you really just dump everything in the crockpot), easy, high-protein, nearly fat-free, and deliciously satisfying. Plus, it's a great vegetarian and vegan option for families on a budget. Keep it vegan by omitting the optional cheese and sour cream toppings, or use dairy-free and vegan substitutes.” Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 480 minutes (8 hours); Total Time: 485 minutes; Yield: 6 servings as a main dish

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 can corn kernels, drained

1 can kidney beans or navy beans, drained

1 can pinto beans, drained

1 can black beans, drained

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

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

1 package taco seasoning mix

1/4 tsp cumin

3/4 tsp onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Optional garnishes:

tortilla chips or corn chips

grated cheese

chopped green onions

fresh chopped cilantro

Preparation

Cook on low crockpot setting for 8-10 hours.

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

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

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

VEGETARIAN LASAGNA

I’d been making lasagna for years, using a favorite cookbook. One time, my oldest son took the same recipe, and replaced the meat with eggplant. His came out tasting better than when I made it.

I tried recreating the eggplant version, but it never quite came out the same. So, I ended up changing the recipe drastically, changing ingredients and amounts. The funny thing is that, while I use one or two packages of tofu crumbles instead of meat, it tastes enough like meat to fool several non-vegetarians. One person, after eating this, even looked at me aghast, asking, “What are you, some kind of vegetarian?” Never heard from him again.

Tomato sauce:

2 – 3 onions, chopped

3 – 5 cloves garlic, minced

28 oz. can tomatoes

2 – 8 oz. cans tomato sauce

2 – 6 oz. cans tomato paste

2 T oil

1 T oregano

1 tsp. basil

1 tsp. thyme

1 tsp. dill

1 tsp. anise

1 or 2 – 10 oz. package tofu crumbles

Brown onions & garlic in oil. Add remaining ingredients, stir well, simmer for 1 hour. While sauce is cooking, in a separate pot, cook 16 oz. lasagna noodles & make cheese layer.

Cheese layer:

2 C sour cream

2 C cottage cheese

2 eggs

4 C mozzarella, grated

2 C cheddar cheese, grated

1 C Parmesan cheese

Mix ingredients together in large bowl.

Assemble:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In 9” X 13” pan, place half the cooked lasagna noodles length-wise. Top with half the cheese mixture, then half the tomato sauce. Repeat. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. Let cool a few minutes before cutting, as it tends to be a little runny when it first comes out of the oven. Serve with a salad and a loaf of hot Italian bread. Very yummy.

Thursday, April 21, 2016

Thursday Recipes

One of my favorite magazines is Vegetarian Times. The first four recipes are from an article titled "Monday Night Magic," by Maria Lissandrello and photographed by Carin Krasner, in the May 2008 issue. It begins, "Gourmet dinners are great when you’ve got time, but who wants to worry about a long shopping list of ingredients at the start of a busy week? And even the most delectable main dish loses some of its attraction when 'serves six to eight' portions mean having it three nights in a row.

"These recipes make the most of on-hand ingredients for fast, flavorful meals that won’t have you racing to the supermarket after work—or eating leftovers till Friday."

The first four recipes can be found online here.

And one last thing: Enjoy!

EDAMAME RICE BOWLS


This recipe begins, “Shelled edamame (soybeans), aren’t just for Asian dishes. Here, they add fresh, subtle flavor to a warm rice salad studded with dried cranberries and olives. For a speedier supper, use instant brown rice in the recipe.” Serves 2.

1/2 cup brown rice


1 8-oz. bag frozen shelled edamame

1/4 cup dried cranberries


2 oz. crumbed feta


10 pitted kalamata olives, halved


3 Tbs. chopped cilantro

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 Tbs. lime juice

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

Bring 1 1/4 cups water to a boil, stir in rice, and season with salt. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 45 minutes, or until rice is tender.

Bring 2 cups salted water to a boil, add edamame, and cook 2 minutes, or until tender; drain and set aside.

Toss together rice, edamame, cranberries, feta, olives, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, and red pepper flakes in large bowl. Season with salt and pepper.

per serving: 540 cal; 20 g prot; 24.5 g total fat (6 g sat. fat); 63 g carb; 25 mg chol; 778 mg sod; 9 g fiber; 14 g sugars

BROCCOLI-POTATO STRATAS


This recipe begins, “Prepare these individual casseroles the night before, and pop them in the oven when you get home from work.” Serves 2.

1 large or 2 medium sweet potatoes (2 lb.)

2 Tbs. skim milk Pinch ground nutmeg


1 1/2 cups frozen broccoli florets

1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese


1 large egg, lightly beaten

2/3 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry


3 tsp. grated Parmesan cheese, divided

3 Tbs. crushed potato chips, divided

Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat 2 miniloaf pans or 1 8- x 8-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray. Pierce sweet potatoes with fork, and wrap in plastic wrap. Cook in microwave on high power 10 to 12 minutes, or until soft. Halve, and scoop flesh into bowl. Add milk and nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Mash until smooth.

Place broccoli in glass bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave on high power 3 minutes, or until tender.

Beat together ricotta and egg until smooth and creamy. Add spinach and 1 tsp. Parmesan to egg mixture, and season with salt and pepper.

Spoon half of egg mixture into bottom of each prepared miniloaf pan, dividing equally between 2 pans. Next, layer crumbled chips into each pan, followed by layer of sweet potato mixture and layer of broccoli florets. Top both stratas with remaining Parmesan. Bake 20 minutes, or until stratas have set. Cool 10 minutes, and unmold.

PER SERVING: 582 CAL; 28 G PROT; 18 G TOTAL FAT (8.5 G SAT. FAT); 80 G CARB; 147 MG CHOL; 797 MG SOD; 13 G FIBER; 23 G SUGARS

PITA PANZANELLA


This one begins, “Serve this bread salad with a bowl of soup for a fast, veggie-loaded dinner. You might even want to double the recipe and take leftovers for lunch the next day.” Serves 2 in 30 minutes or less. Vegan.

Panzanella

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 7-inch whole-wheat pita, cut into 8 triangles

2 cups frozen artichoke hearts

3/4 cup frozen fava beans or lima beans
1 1/2 cups frozen peas

Lemon-Mint Dressing


2 Tbs. olive oil


2 Tbs. chopped fresh mint


1 Tbs. lemon juice


2 tsp. grated lemon zest
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)

Heat olive oil in skillet over high heat. Add pita triangles, and toast 1 minute on each side, or until slightly brown and crisp. Set aside.

Place artichoke hearts in glass dish, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave on high power 4 to 5 minutes, stirring halfway through. Drain, and place in bowl. Microwave fava beans in same glass dish on high power, 5 to 7 minutes, stirring halfway through. Drain, and add to artichokes. Microwave peas in same glass dish on high power, 3 to 4 minutes, stirring midway. Drain, and add to artichokes and fava beans.

To make Lemon-Mint Dressing: Whisk together all ingredients in small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Add Lemon-Mint Dressing and toasted pita triangles to artichoke mixture, and toss to coat. Let stand 5 minutes before serving so pita absorbs flavors.

PER SERVING: 472 CAL; 17 G PROT; 22.5 G TOTAL FAT (3.5 G SAT. FAT); 57 G CARB; 0 MG CHOL; 365 MG SOD; 19 G FIBER; 7 G SUGARS

QUICK PIEROGI BAKE

This recipe begins, “Pierogi are Polish dumplings stuffed with cheese, potatoes, and /or sauerkraut.


”If you can’t find pierogi in the freezer or refrigerator section of your supermarket, substitute cheese-filled ravioli. Serve with prepared sauerkraut, if desired.” Serves 2 in 30 minutes or less.

1 tsp. unsalted butter

1/4 cup finely chopped onion


1 cup sliced mushrooms


8 refrigerated or frozen cheese pierogi

3 Tbs. shredded low-fat Monterey Jack cheese

2 slices soy bacon, cooked and crumbled


2 Tbs. fat-free sour cream, optional

Preheat broiler. Coat 6- x 2-inch round pan with cooking spray.

Heat butter in skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion in butter 3 minutes, or until translucent. Add mushrooms, and season with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high, and cook 4 minutes, or until mushrooms have wilted, stirring often.

Reduce heat to medium, add pierogi, and sauté 3 minutes, or until pierogi are browned on both sides. Transfer pierogi to prepared pan. Spoon onion and mushrooms on top, and sprinkle with cheese and crumbled soy bacon. Broil 6 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown. Serve with dollops of sour cream, if desired.

PER SERVING: 328 Cal; 18 g prot; 7.5 g total fat (4 g sat. fat); 49 g carb; 18 mg chol; 851 mg sod; 2 g fiber; 3 g sugars

APPLE RUTABAGA SOUP

This came from Brett Moore, About.com’s Gourmet Food expert. He wrote, “Here's a beautiful comfort soup from Chef Patrick O'Connell (The Inn at Little Washington). Delicious and complex flavors with a velvety texture. Perfect for those cold winter days.” Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients:

1 stick (1/4 pound) butter

1 cup onion, roughly chopped

1 cup Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and roughly chopped

1 cup rutabaga, peeled and roughly chopped

1 cup butternut squash, peeled, seeded and roughly chopped

1 cup carrots, peeled and roughly chopped

1 cup sweet potato, peeled and roughly chopped

1 quart good chicken stock

2 cups heavy cream

1/4 cup maple syrup

Salt and cayenne pepper to taste

Preparation:

In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the onion, apple, rutabaga, squash, carrots and sweet potato and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent. Add the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until all of the vegetables are cooked through and tender.

Puree the vegetables in a blender or food processor. Strain through a fine mesh strainer into the same pot you used to cook the vegetables. Add the cream, maple syrup, salt and cayenne pepper.

Return the pot to the stove, bring the soup to a simmer, and serve.

CHEWY FUDGE BROWNIES

This comes from Alex Witchel in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. Alex wrote, “These brownies must sit for some time before they reach their deeply fudgy peak. They are a perfect midweek recipe to yield a weekend's dessert, though in truth they'll be ready after only a night's rest. Once they've matured, you end up with a mystifying brownie that is firm to the bite yet melting in the mouth. Walnuts contribute crunch if you like that sort of thing. They are entirely optional.” Makes 24 brownies.

To view these online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, plus more for greasing pan

1 1/2 cups walnut halves (optional)

9 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped or broken into small pieces

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon salt

2 3/4 cups sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

Preparation

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 13-by-9-inch glass baking pan. If using walnuts, spread on a baking sheet and toast in oven until fragrant and lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool.

Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat, add chocolate, and cover pan until chocolate is melted, about 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, salt, sugar and vanilla just until thick, creamy and beginning to lighten in color.

Whisk the butter and chocolate until smooth, then mix into the sugar-egg mixture just until well combined. Using a spatula, fold in the flour, using as few strokes as possible, until it disappears. Fold in the walnuts, if using. Spread the batter evenly in the baking pan.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, checking after 22 minutes to avoid over-baking. When the tip of a knife inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs, but not liquid, remove brownies from the oven. Allow to cool to room temperature, then cover and leave in the pan for several hours or overnight before cutting into squares. Store in an airtight container.

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Wednesday Recipes

Here are today's six vegetarian recipes. Enjoy!

CHAI SPICE CINNAMON ROLLS

This comes from The Baker Chick, otherwise known as Audra. I highly recommend her e-newsletter!

Audra wrote, “This recipe was developed for Clabber Girl Baking Powder, the thoughts and opinions are always 100% my own!” Yield: 6 large buns

To view this online, go to http://www.thebakerchick.com/2014/12/chai-spice-cinnamon-rolls/.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast

2 1/2 cups flour

2 tablespoons melted butter

1 cup warm milk

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

2 teaspoons brown sugar

For the Filling

2 tablespoons of butter, softened

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon cardamon

1/2 teaspoon allspice

1/2 teaspoon cloves

1 1/2 teaspoons ginger

1 cup brown sugar

For the glaze

3 tablespoons of melted butter

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/4 teaspoon cardamon

splash of milk

Extra butter for greasing bowl and pan

Instructions

In a large bowl combine the yeast, 2 cups flour, baking powder and salt. Stir together and then add the butter and milk. Use a spatula to stir until a shaggy dough has formed.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, adding more flour as needed (I added another 1/2 cup.)

Transfer dough to a lightly buttered bowl and cover with a clean dish cloth. Place somewhere warm and let proof for 30 minutes or until puffy and doubled in size.

Meanwhile stir together the brown sugar & filling spices and set aside.

Prepare a mega muffin tin by buttering each well. Set aside.

When the dough has proofed. Roll it to a 9x12 rectangle on a floured surface. Spread with the butter and then evenly sprinkle the filling all over. Roll the dough, starting on one of the short ends. Pinch to seal.

Use a serrated knife to cut into 6 equal pieces. Place each roll into a muffin tin well. Cover with the cloth and allow to proof for another 20-30 minutes or until doubled (They will be totally poofy at this point.)

Bake at 375F for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

For the glaze:

Whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, cardamon & milk. Add a teeny bit more milk if needed to reach drizzling consistency.

Serve warm.

Notes: I made these in a mega muffin tin, yielding 6 large buns. You could also use a regular 12-well muffin tin or even a 8x8 baking pan.

VEGETARIAN LENTIL SOUP

This comes from Jolinda Hackett, About.com’s Vegetarian Food expert. Jolinda write, “Lentil soup is one of those recipes that should be in every cook's repertoire. Lentils are available in most grocery stores and are high in protein, healthy and very cheap. This vegetarian lentil soup recipe uses plenty of seasonings to perk up the soup, including thyme, bay leaves and a bit of lemon juice to brighten all the flavors. Enjoy this traditional and warming dish!

“I always recommend using sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor, and this recipe is no exception. Trust me, it makes a difference.

“This lentil soup is vegetarian, vegan, low-calorie and low-fat, and with all those lentils, it's also surprisingly high in protein, with nearly 19 grams per serving. If you use a fresh homemade vegetable broth, this recipe is also gluten-free.” Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 50 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes; Yield: 4 servings of lentil soup

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 tsp vegetable oil (canola oil, sunflower oil or any kind of cooking oil)

1 onion, diced

1 carrot, sliced

4 cups vegetable broth (or use a combination of water and vegetable bouillon cubes)

1 cup dry lentils (you want regular brown lentils - NOT red lentils to make this soup!)

1/4 tsp dried thyme

2 bay leaves

dash salt and pepper, to taste

2 tsp lemon juice (optional, but delicious)

Preparation

In a large pot, sautee the onions and carrot in the vegetable oil for 3-5 minutes until onions turn clear.

Add the vegetable broth, lentils, thyme, bay leaves and a dash of sea salt or kosher salt and black pepper (you can always add more later when you taste the soup).

Reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook your soup until the lentils are soft, about 45 minutes.

Remove bay leaves and stir in lemon juice before serving.

The lemon juice is optional, but it just helps to bring out all the other flavors a bit more.

Taste, and and season with a bit more salt and pepper to taste, or, serve as is and allow everyone to season as they prefer.

Makes 4 servings of lentil soup.

COOKIE BUTTER LAVA CAKE

This comes from Tablespoon.com, and begins, “You already love lava cakes. With this sweet, spiced version, life is about to get sooo good.” Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; makes 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 cups powdered sugar

1 cup cookie butter

3 eggs

1/4 cup water

Directions

Preheat oven to 425ºF.

In a stand mixer, beat 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar and cookie butter until smooth.

Add eggs one at a time, beating until smooth and creamy. Add water and mix until fully combined.

Spoon batter evenly into four 6-oz. ramekins (which have been lightly coated with nonstick cooking spray).

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or just until the edges have set and the centers are soft (but not jiggly). Dust with powdered sugar. Serve immediately.

TORTILLA LASAGNA

This is from the January/February 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 48. It begins, "This easy, crowd-pleasing dish is also a kid favorite. Toasting the tortillas before building the lasagna keeps them from getting soggy as the dish bakes. Feel free to mix things up with different beans, cheeses, or vegetables between the layers." Serves 8.

To view this online, click here.

6 8-inch fat-free flour tortillas

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)

2 Tbs. chili powder

2 tsp. ancho chile powder

2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)

2 cups strained tomatoes, such as Pomì, divided

1 1/2 cups cooked black beans, or 1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 medium chayote, peeled and diced, or 2 medium zucchini, diced (1 1/2 cups)

1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels

1 1/2 cups grated Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese

Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast tortillas on 2 baking sheets in oven 5 minutes, or until light brown, turning once.

Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 minutes, or until soft. Stir in chili powder, ancho chile powder, and garlic, and cook 30 seconds. Add 11/2 cups strained tomatoes, beans, chayote, corn, and 1/2 cup water, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cover, and cook 10 minutes, or until chayote is tender.

Coat 2-inch-deep x 8-inch round baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1/4 cup strained tomatoes in bottom of pan. Set 1 toasted tortilla in pan; top with 3/4 cup bean mixture and 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat layering 4 more times. Top with last tortilla, and spread remaining 1/4 cup strained tomatoes over top. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly and cheese has melted. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting into 8 wedges.

nutritional information Per Wedge: Calories: 226; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g; Cholesterol: 19 mg; Sodium: 506 mg; Fiber: 10 g; Sugar: 4 g

RICE PUDDING IN A MUG

This comes from The Kitchn's e-newsletters. I love the site, as well as its sibling site, Apartment Therapy. If you haven't checked out these two sites, and/or signed up for their e-newsletters, you should!

This recipe serves 2, and can be viewed online by clicking here.

1 large egg

1/3 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup whole milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch salt

1 1/2 cups cooked rice, any kind

In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg and sugar until light and fluffy. Whisk in the milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cooked rice, and stir until well-combined. Divide the mixture between two tall mugs. Microwave on full power for 2 to 4 minutes, until the pudding has set. (Cooking time will vary greatly depending on your microwave and the width and depth of the mug. Start with 2 minutes and continue cooking in 30-second increments until it is done.)

Carefully remove the mugs from the microwave and let them stand for a minute or two before serving. If you like, top each pudding with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon, citrus zest, raisins, or whipped cream.

VEGETARIAN CHILI WITH CORN BREAD TOPPING

This comes from Nigella Lawson in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. Nigella wrote, “The idea behind this spicy, all-vegetable chili is ease: It’s easily made on a weekend, a meditative wintry afternoon in the kitchen, chopping and stirring. Then, on a weeknight made even shorter by commuting and homework, concoct an easy corn bread topping, spread it on the chili and bake it for a while. It’s healthy, filling food.” Time: 1 hour 35 minutes; makes 8 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Chili

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 medium onions, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups red bell peppers (about 2 large peppers), finely diced

2 teaspoons hot red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cumin

3 cardamom pods, lightly crushed

1 1/2 cups red lentils

3 cups canned chopped tomatoes

3 1/2 cups drained canned kidney beans

1/4 cup ketchup

1/4 cup tomato paste

1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

For The Corn Bread Topping:

1 teaspoon salt

2 cups cornmeal

2 tablespoons flour

3 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 cup butter milk

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon honey

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 cup coarsely grated Cheddar cheese

For Serving:

2 cups sour cream

1 cup chopped cilantro

Preparation

To prepare chili, heat olive oil over medium-low heat in a deep, wide pan with a lid. Add onions, garlic and bell peppers, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in red pepper flakes, coriander, cumin and cardamom pods. Stir in lentils.

Add chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, ketchup, tomato paste, cocoa and 3 cups water. Stir well. Cover, and simmer, stirring frequently, until mixture is thickened and beans are tender, about 45 minutes. Chili can be made ahead to this point and topping added later. (In that case, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days, bringing to room temperature before proceeding.)

For corn bread topping, heat oven to 425 degrees. In a mixing bowl, combine salt, cornmeal, flour, baking powder and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, honey and oil. Pour liquid ingredients into dry; stir until combined.

Pour chili into a baking dish 13 by 9 by 3 inches. Spread corn bread topping evenly over chili, and sprinkle cheese on topping. Bake until topping has risen and turned golden brown, about 25 minutes.

Remove from oven, and let chili stand about 5 minutes. To serve, cut into squares, and pass sour cream and cilantro at the table.

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Tuesday Recipes

Enjoy!

TUSCAN KALE AND WHITE BEAN STEW WITH BREADCRUMB TOPPING

This comes from the October 2014 issue of Vegetarian Times, pagae 26. It begins, "This quick riff on an Italian classic gets multi-layered flavors from mushrooms, garlic, and a splash of lemon." Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

1 cup fresh breadcrumbs

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 Tbs. plus 2 tsp. olive oil, divided

1 Tbs. unsalted butter

8 oz. cremini mushrooms, quartered (2 cups)

3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)

2 bunches Tuscan kale, stemmed, torn into bite-size pieces (8 cups)

1 15.5-oz. can white beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth

2 tsp. lemon juice

Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and 2 tsp. oil in small bowl. Set aside.

Heat remaining 1 Tbs. oil and butter in large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add mushrooms; increase heat to medium-high. Stir, cover pan, and cook 5 to 6 minutes, or until mushrooms are lightly browned, stirring occasionally.

Uncover pan, add garlic, and stir 30 seconds. Add kale, and cook 2 minutes, or until wilted. Add beans, broth, and 3/4 cup water. Cover, and simmer 6 to 8 minutes, or until liquid has reduced by about three-quarters. Stir in 1 tsp. lemon juice, and remove from heat. Add 1 more tsp. lemon juice, if desired.

Heat broiler to high. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over stew, and broil 3 minutes, or until topping is golden.

nutritional information Per 1 1/4-cup serving: Calories: 321; Protein: 18 g; Total Fat: 12 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 39 g; Cholesterol: 13 mg; Sodium: 373 mg; Fiber: 12 g; Sugar: 3 g

SPANAKOPITA

This comes from the April/May 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 74. It begins, "Layers of phyllo make a crisp double crust for this classic Greek spinach pie." Serves 9.

To view this online, click here.

3 lb. frozen spinach, thawed

2 Tbs. plus 1/3 cup olive oil or melted butter, divided

2 medium onions, diced

8 green onions, sliced

1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg

1 cup chopped fresh parsley

3 large eggs

8 oz. low-fat feta cheese, crumbled

12 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed (one-third 16-oz. pkg.)

Squeeze spinach dry with hands, and place in bowl. (You should have 4 cups.)

Heat 2 Tbs. oil in skillet over medium heat. Add onions, and sauté 10 minutes, or until browned. Add spinach, green onions, and nutmeg; season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cook 5 minutes, or until mixture is dry. Remove from heat; stir in parsley. Cool.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Whisk eggs in small bowl. Stir eggs into spinach mixture, then fold in feta.

Place remaining 1/3 cup oil in bowl, and brush bottom and sides of 9-inch square baking pan with oil. Unroll phyllo, and keep under damp towel to retain moisture. Place 1 phyllo sheet in prepared pan, letting excess hang over short sides of pan. Brush phyllo sheet with oil. Place second phyllo sheet across first on pan, so excess hangs over long sides of pan; brush sheet with oil. Repeat crisscross layering with 4 more phyllo sheets.

Spread spinach mixture in phyllo crust.

Spread 1 phyllo sheet on work surface; brush with oil. Top with another phyllo sheet. Repeat brushing and layering with remaining 4 phyllo sheets. Place phyllo stack on top of spinach mixture. Trim edges with scissors so no more than 1 inch of phyllo hangs over edges. Discard excess. Roll edges over pie to seal. Brush top with oil, and score decorative diamond pattern over top with knife. Bake 1 hour, or until top is flaky and golden-brown. Cool 10 minutes before serving.

nutritional information Per 1 3-inch square: Calories: 297; Protein: 14 g; Total Fat: 16 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g; Cholesterol: 71 mg; Sodium: 695 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 5 g

DARK CHOCOLATE-CARAMEL SORBET

This comes from the July/August 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, pagae 51, and begins, "The caramelized sugar syrup that is the base for this decadent chocolate sorbet adds to its depth and richness. There are very few ingredients for the recipe, so the quality of the chocolate and cocoa really count." Makes 1 quart.

To view this online, click here.

1 cup plus 2 Tbs. sugar

2 Tbs. lemon juice

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 tsp. salt

7 oz. dark chocolate, finely chopped

Place sugar in large saucepan, and heat over medium-low heat. Cook 15 to 20 minutes, or until sugar has melted and caramelized to rich amber color, stirring occasionally.

Stir in lemon juice (mixture will boil violently for several minutes). Slowly add 2 1/2 cups boiling water, and stir until hardened caramel is dissolved. Stir in cocoa powder and salt, and bring mixture to just under a simmer. Remove from heat, and stir in chocolate. Let stand 1 minute, then blend smooth with immersion blender. Transfer to covered container, and refrigerate overnight.

Pour sorbet base into ice cream maker, and freeze according to manufacturer’s instructions.

nutritional information Per 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 247: Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 48 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 156 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 43 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

APPLE CRISP

This comes from Patrick and Gina Neely of the Food Network show, Down Home with the Neelys. Total Time: 1 hr; Prep: 15 min; Inactive: 10 min; Cook: 35 min; Yield: about 8 servings; Level: Easy

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/patrick-and-gina-neely/apple-crisp-recipe.html?oc=linkback.

Ingredients

Filling:

5 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, chopped small

1/4 cup finely chopped pecans

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Topping:

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

6 tablespoons chilled butter, cut into pieces

1/4 cup coarsely chopped pecans

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

For the Filling:

Mix all the ingredients together. Place into 7 to 8-ounce ramekins.

For topping:

Mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt in large bowl. Blend the butter into the mixture until it forms pea size lumps. Stir in pecans and sprinkle over filling.

Bake crisps for 35 to 40 minutes. Cool 10 minutes before serving.

ROASTED CORN QUESADILLAS

This comes from the September 2015 issue of Vegetarian TImes, page 48. It begins, "Grated mozzarella folded into the corn mixture helps hold these spicy-sweet quesadillas together. Cut into wedges and serve as an appetizer, or pair with a salad for a light meal." Makes 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

3 cups Roasted Confetti Corn

2 8-oz. balls fresh mozzarella, grated

6 8-inch flour tortillas

6 Tbs. cilantro leaves, divided, optional

1 1/2 cups prepared peach salsa

Combine Roasted Confetti Corn and mozzarella in bowl. Spread heaping 1/2 cup mixture on half of each tortilla, and sprinkle with 1 Tbs. cilantro (if using). Fold tortillas in half over filling.

Cook each tortilla in dry skillet over medium heat 2 minutes per side, or until mozzarella has melted and tortillas are crisp and brown. Serve with salsa.

nutritional information Per Per quesadilla: Calories: 502; Protein: 20 g; Total Fat: 22 g; Saturated Fat: 12 g; Carbohydrates: 57 g; Cholesterol: 62 mg; Sodium: 678 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 18 g

PLUM CRUMBLE

This comes from the October 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, "This dessert can be prepared with whatever fruits are in season. We used plums, but you could also choose apples, pears, or frozen berries." Recipe by Carolyn Trompeter. Serves 8.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/plum-crumble/.

Plum Filling

1/3 cup apple juice

1 Tbs. arrowroot powder

6 cups thinly sliced plums (3 lb.)

1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg

1 cup whole rolled oats

1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour

1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 cup corn oil

1/4 cup rice syrup

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat 8-inch square baking pan with oil and flour, and set aside.

To make Plum Filling: Place apple juice in mixing bowl. Add arrowroot, and stir to dissolve. Add plums, and toss gently. Transfer to prepared pan, sprinkle with nutmeg, and set aside.

To make Crumble: Combine oats, flour, cinnamon, and salt in large bowl. Rub oil into mixture with your fingers, then drizzle in rice syrup while mixing with fork. Distribute evenly over Plum Filling.

Bake 20 to 30 minutes, or until topping is golden and fruit is bubbling. Serve warm.

from the October 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times

nutritional information

Per serving:

Calories: 257, Protein: 4 g, Total Fat: 8 g, Saturated Fat: 1 g, Carbohydrates: 44 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Sodium: 163 mg, Fiber: 5 g, Sugar: 19 g