Yay, Friday! Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the weekend, including Simple Vegetarian Spinach Lasagna and Bomboloni. Enjoy!
VEGETARIAN STUFFED PEPPERS
This comes from Ready Set Eat, and begins, “A heart healthy recipe for stuffed peppers filled with brown rice, vegetables and cheese for a Mexican flavor influence.”
Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Servings: 4; Number of ingredients: 8.
To view this online (and to check out more recipes), go to https://www.readyseteat.com/recipes-Vegetarian-Stuffed-Peppers-7419.
Ingredients
PAM® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
2 large green or red bell peppers
1/2 cup instant brown rice, uncooked
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1 can (10 oz each) Ro*Tel® Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies-No Salt Added, drained
1-1/2 cups frozen Southwest mixed vegetables (corn, black beans, red peppers)
1 can (8 oz each) Hunt's® Tomato Sauce, divided
1/3 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray 8x8-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray. Cut bell peppers lengthwise through stem into halves. Remove and discard seeds and membranes. Place peppers, cut-side down, in dish. Bake 15 minutes or until tender.
Meanwhile, prepare rice according to package directions, adding cumin and garlic salt. Add drained tomatoes, mixed vegetables and half of tomato sauce to cooked rice; stir to combine. Divide rice mixture and place inside peppers. Top with remaining tomato sauce; sprinkle with cheese.
Cover dish with aluminum foil. Bake 20 minutes or until peppers are hot and cheese melts.
ALMOND, TOASTED OAT AND CHERRY TRAIL MIX
This was in a Weight Watchers' email several years ago. The program has changed, but I'm using the values from when this was sent.
This recipe began, “Take this energy-packed treat with you when you head to the great outdoors.”
POINTS® Value: 3; Servings: 6; Preparation Time: 8 minutes; Cooking Time: 25 minutes; Level of Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
1 cup uncooked old fashioned oats
2/3 cup dried cherries, chopped
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/4 tsp table salt
1 Tbsp Land O Lakes Stick Light Butter, or similar product, melted
1/4 cup honey
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a sided sheet pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, stir together rolled oats, cherries, almonds and salt. Drizzle with butter and honey and toss thoroughly. Spread mixture evenly on sheet pan. Bake, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning, about 20 to 25 minutes; let cool. Yields about 1/3 cup per serving. (You might want to double the recipe and store the mix for a few days in an airtight container.)
SIMPLE VEGETARIAN SPINACH LASAGNA
This is from Vicki Shanta Retelny, RDN on the VeryWellFit site. Vicki wrote, “There's nothing like lasagna to soothe a craving for a creamy, dreamy meal. With a foundation of vitamin C-rich tomato sauce, which is loaded with the carotenoid lycopene, this Italian classic takes on a healthy bend with a good dose veggies nestled in its layers.
“Chock full of leafy green spinach, this dish is good for your brain health, as eating a serving of veggies each day has shown to fend off cognitive decline. Spinach is also loaded with iron and calcium for a total body wellness boost.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 65 minutes; Servings: 9 (1 cup each)
To view this online, go to https://www.verywellfit.com/vegetarian-spinach-lasagna-4144632.
Ingredients
1 package no-boil lasagna noodles
2 28-ounce cans tomato sauce
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon oregano
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 15-ounce container part-skim ricotta cheese
1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, grated
3 cups raw baby spinach leaves
Directions
Preheat the oven the 350F.
On the stovetop over medium heat, pour the tomato sauce into a saucepan. Add salt, oregano, and garlic. Bring to a light boil, lower the heat, and simmer for a few minutes. Stir occasionally.
On the bottom of a 9x13 pan put a layer of tomato sauce. Place a layer of noodles on top, covering the bottom of the pan. Spread ricotta cheese on top of the noodles, top with spinach, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and coat with a small ladle full of sauce. Repeat the layers until you get to the top of the pan. Sprinkle the final layer with mozzarella cheese.
Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is golden brown on top.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a 10 minutes before serving.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
Make this dish higher in fiber with whole wheat noodles, although they may only be available in the boil variety. Add other vegetables such a sliced carrots, zucchini, or eggplant. For an alternative green, use baby kale or arugula. Spread pesto between the layers or incorporate it into the tomato sauce for a rich, nutty flavor.
If you want to add meat, add cooked, diced chicken breast or ground turkey to the sauce. For a non-dairy twist, use vegan cheese in lieu of ricotta and mozzarella cheese.
Cooking and Serving Tips
To save time use no-boil lasagna noodles—they're quick and easy to assemble. Plus, the part-skim ricotta cheese and mozzarella reduce the fat but still offer good-quality protein.
This dish can be assembled and placed, uncooked and covered, in the refrigerator overnight. Simply heat and serve the next day. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer in an airtight container.
BOMBOLONI
This comes from John Alberti and was posted on the TODAY Show website. John wrote, “Bomboloni are Italian doughnuts, and they are as much fun to say as they are to make and eat. They are like a party in your mouth, with their gooey centers and sugary, soft dough.
“Swap option: They are delightful even without a filling, but if you fill them with chocolate-hazelnut spread, jam or pastry cream.”
Cook Time: 5 minutes; Prep Time: 2 hours; Servings: 10. Special equipment: Round pastry cutter.
To view this online, go to https://www.today.com/recipes/bomboloni-recipe-t150524.
Ingredients
3 cups bread or all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons fast-acting dry yeast
2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus more for coating
1 lemon, zested
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3/4 cup whole milk
1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable oil, for frying
Chocolate-hazelnut spread, jam or pastry cream, for filling
Directions
In a large bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and lemon zest. Then add the eggs, milk, butter and vanilla extract, and mix well. Knead the dough in the stand mixer for 2 minutes, or if making the dough by hand, tip it onto a floured work surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until it's smooth and elastic but still quite sticky. Transfer the dough to a large, lightly oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough until about 3/4 inch thick. Then, using a round pastry cutter the size of a cup, cut the dough into disks. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and cover with plastic wrap. Allow to rise for another hour.
Heat oil in a large, deep pan to 350 F. Fry the doughnuts, in batches, for 4-5 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time, until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Dredge the doughnuts in granulated sugar until completely covered.
Spoon the filling of your choice into a piping bag fitted with a medium nozzle. Make a small hole in the side of each doughnut, push in the nozzle and squeeze to fill the bomboloni. Serve warm.
MASHED TURNIPS WITH ROASTED GARLIC
Servings: 8
Source: The Diabetic Newsletter
Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/34.shtml
Ingredients
1-1/2 pound small turnips, peeled and quartered
1 ripe bartlett pear, about 6 ounces, peeled, cored and chopped
4 cloves garlic, roasted and peeled
1 tablespoon margarine
2 tablespoons skim milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste
Directions
Steam turnips over boiling water until fork tender, about 15 minutes.
Drain turnips and place in a food processor or blender along with pear, garlic, and margarine.
Process until smooth, adding skim milk as needed.
Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 41; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable
RED LENTIL SOUP WITH LEMON
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “This is a lentil soup that defies expectations of what lentil soup can be. It is light, spicy and a bold red color (no murky brown here): a revelatory dish that takes less than an hour to make. The cooking is painless. Sauté onion and garlic in oil, then stir in tomato paste, cumin and chile powder and cook a few minutes more to intensify flavor. Add broth, water, red lentils (which cook faster than their green or black counterparts) and diced carrot, and simmer for 30 minutes. Purée half the mixture and return it to the pot for a soup that strikes the balance between chunky and pleasingly smooth. A hit of lemon juice adds an up note that offsets the deep cumin and chile flavors.” Yield: 4 servings; Time: 45 minutes.
This was featured in “A Lentil Soup to Make You Stop, Taste and Savor and can be viewed online here.
Want to know more about making soup? Check out Samin Nosrat’s guide “How to Make Soup”.
Also, check out Melissa Clark’s guide, “Hot to Cook Beans.”
Note: The recipe originally called for either chicken or veggie broth. I've left it at simply veggie broth (for obvious reasons)
Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil, more for drizzling
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Pinch of ground chile powder or cayenne, more to taste
1 quart vegetable broth
2 cups water
1 cup red lentils
1 large carrot, peeled and diced
Juice of 1/2 lemon, more to taste
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Preparation
In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons oil over high heat until hot and shimmering. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until golden, about 4 minutes.
Stir in tomato paste, cumin, salt, black pepper and chili powder or cayenne, and sauté for 2 minutes longer.
Add broth, 2 cups water, lentils and carrot. Bring to a simmer, then partially cover pot and turn heat to medium-low. Simmer until lentils are soft, about 30 minutes. Taste and add salt if necessary.
Using an immersion or regular blender or a food processor, purée half the soup then add it back to pot. Soup should be somewhat chunky.
Reheat soup if necessary, then stir in lemon juice and cilantro. Serve soup drizzled with good olive oil and dusted lightly with chili powder if desired.
Friday, June 14, 2019
Thursday, June 13, 2019
Pasta Party!
“Everything you see, I owe to spaghetti.” - La bella Sophia Loren, a walking advertisement for carbo loading.
Found in Loose Cannons: Devastating Dish from the World's Wildest Women, complied by Autumn Stephens, page 20.
Pasta is such a versatile food: you can use it in a variety of salads (both hot and cold), with heavy or light sauces, in layers...the only limit is one's imagination.
Here are six yummy pasta recipes to get you started, including Triple Tomato Pasta with Spinach and White Beans and Hawaiian Macaroni Salad. Enjoy!
PASTA WITH BROWN BUTTER AND PARMESAN
This comes from Ali Slagle in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Ali wrote, “Sometimes you just want a big bowl of pasta with butter and Parmesan. Starchy, silky and salty, it’s always good — and practically foolproof. To make it a little more grown up, just take it one step further: Brown the butter. When you slide the butter into the skillet, let it cook until the milk solids turn a toasty brown. It adds a rich, nutty flavor that makes the dish a bit more sophisticated with very little extra work.”
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 25 minutes.
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019980-pasta-with-brown-butter-and-parmesan.
Ingredients
Kosher salt
1 pound spaghetti, linguine or other long noodle
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
Freshly ground black pepper
Preparation
Bring a large pot of heavily salted water (2 heaping tablespoons kosher salt to about 7 quarts water) to a boil. Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta, but don’t shake it fully dry.
In a skillet or Dutch oven large enough to hold the pasta (and preferably with a light-colored bottom so you can see the butter solids brown), melt the butter over medium heat. Cook, swirling occasionally, until the foam subsides, the milk solids turn golden-brown and it smells nutty and toasty, 3 to 4 minutes. (Watch carefully to see that it does not burn. If it does, start over.) Remove from heat immediately.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the brown butter. Stir in the cheese until melted. Stir in pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the pasta is glossy with sauce (you probably won’t need the full 1/2 cup).
Serve with black pepper and more Parmesan on top.
PASTA ALLA NORMA
This recipe comes from Pure Wow, and begins, “If you’re taking a trip to Italy soon, that’s amazing. (We’re totally jealous.) But for the rest of us, this Sicilian dish from Catania is the next best thing. Presenting pasta alla Norma with eggplant, basil and pecorino cheese. Best of all, you can make four servings for less than $10. Salute!”
PREP: 20 MIN; COOK: 40 MIN; TOTAL: 1 HR; Makes: 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.purewow.com/recipes/pasta-alla-norma
Ingredients
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large eggplant, sliced into 1-inch strips
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves
One 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1 pound bite-size dry pasta, like rigatoni
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup grated pecorino cheese
Directions
In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant in batches and cook on all sides until golden brown. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside on a large plate. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the onion to the same pan and sauté until tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, 1 minute more.
Stir in the tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Add the red-pepper flakes and oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes, until the flavor of the sauce develops.
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to the instructions on the package. Drain well.
Add the pasta and eggplant to the sauce; toss well to coat. Add the parsley, basil and pecorino, and toss well to combine. Serve immediately.
TRIPLE TOMATO PASTA WITH SPINACH AND WHITE BEANS
This comes from Molly Cleary, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC on VeryWellFit. Molly wrote, “Tomatoes get their red color from lycopene, an antioxidant that may help to prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease. Cooking tomatoes actually helps to increase lycopene content, therefore potentially boosting its disease-fighting power.
“In addition to lycopene, this recipe also provides great nutritional benefits from the cannellini beans. These beans are full of fiber, at 6 grams per half cup serving. They are also one of the highest potassium beans out there, a micronutrient and electrolyte that can help lower blood pressure.”
Total Time: 30 minutes; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
8 ounces whole wheat penne pasta
1 can low sodium cannellini beans
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 package baby spinach
2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil
1/4 cup sliced/slivered almonds
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic (or 1 teaspoon minced)
2 teaspoons dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
Combine pesto ingredients (slivered almonds through crushed red pepper) in a food processor and blend until mostly smooth; some small chunks are okay. You may need to a litter water to thin, but do not add more than a few tablespoons since the sauce is meant to be thick.
Drain and rinse cannellini beans.
Add olive oil to a pan and heat to medium high. Add baby spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
Combine the pasta, beans, spinach, and tomatoes into one large pot. Add the pesto and mix well.
Divide into 4 bowls and serve.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
If you cannot find sun-dried tomatoes in oil, then you can substitute 3/4 cup bagged sun-dried tomatoes with 1/4 cup olive oil. It works best if tomatoes are soaked in the oil for at least an hour.
Cooking and Serving Tips
Leftover pesto tastes delicious as a sandwich spread. It also freezes well.
HUNGARIAN CABBAGE WITH NOODLES
This recipe is from Barbara Rolek on The Spruce Eats. Barbara wrote, “This Hungarian comfort-food dish known as kaposztás tészta is a simple recipe to make, consisting of cabbage, onion, butter, egg noodles, salt, and pepper.
“Cabbage with noodles is a popular and easy dish common throughout Eastern Europe. In Poland, it's called kapusta z kluski orhałuski, in the Czech Republic, it's known as nudle s zelí, and Slovaks call it haluski (without the accent on the "L" as in Polish).
“This can be a strictly vegetarian dish, sometimes with added sautéed mushrooms, or can be enhanced with bacon or other smoked meat, and it makes a terrific side dish or main-course offering that holds up well on a buffet table. If this recipe doesn't tickle your fancy, there are many more Eastern European cabbage recipes to choose from.
Total: 50 mins; Prep: 20 mins; Cook: 30 mins; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 large head cabbage (cored and shredded)
1 large onion (chopped)
8 ounces butter (2 sticks)
Salt (to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1 pound medium Hungarian egg noodles (homemade or store-bought, cooked)
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, sauté cabbage and onion in butter until golden brown and tender.
Season with salt and pepper.
Mix with cooked egg noodles. Adjust seasonings and rewarm if necessary to serve piping hot.
Serve and enjoy!
Recipe Variations
Add 1 cup sliced button, cremini or other mushrooms to the skillet with the cabbage and onion, and cook until they are all golden brown and tender.
Before serving, add 1 cup cooked, crumbled or diced bacon to the cabbage, onion, and noodles mixture.
After mixing the cabbage and onion with the noodles, add 1 cup chopped ham combining well and rewarm to serve hot.
More Hungarian Noodle Recipes
Basic Hungarian Noodle Dough Recipe: This egg dough can be transformed into thin noodles, wide noodles and everything in between.
Tarhonya or Grated Egg Noodles Recipe: These noodles are made by grating chunks of noodle dough instead of rolling and cutting. They are dried and used in soups or browned in butter as a side dish.
More About Hungarian Noodles
Hungarian egg noodles, known as Magyar tojasos teszta (MAHG-yahr toy-YAH-shohss TESS-tah) or metelt (MEH-telt), come in a staggering number of varieties, rivaled possibly only by Italian pasta.
Hungarians roll them, cut them, pinch them, grate them, and drop them. There's a noodle for every dish and a dish for every noodle.
Teszta is actually the Hungarian word for "dough" and metelt means "noodles," but they are used interchangeably.
When the word tojasos is added, we're talking about egg noodles, the pride of Hungarian cuisine. They are made with three simple ingredients—flour, eggs, and salt—and, in some kitchens, not even any salt.
No water or oil is added to authentic Hungarian noodle recipes because many cooks feel the addition of water creates longer drying times and increases the potential for the noodles to mold when stored.
CREAMY ROASTED RED PEPPER PENNE
This is from Lindsay Funston on Delish. Lindsay wrote, “With a super-light cream sauce, this spinach and roasted red pepper penne is addictive.”
Total Time: 20 minutes; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 4
To view this online, click here.
Note: This recipe originally called for chicken broth, which I've exchanged for veggie broth. Also, if you can get hold of a veggie version of heavy cream – maybe soy? Whatever – go for it.
Ingredients
12 oz. penne
1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 c. baby spinach
1 c. sliced jarred roasted red peppers
1/2 c. heavy cream
1/2 c. low-sodium vegetable broth
1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
freshly grated Parmesan, for serving
Directions
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water, and return to pot.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and garlic and cook until soft, 5 minutes, then add spinach and roasted red peppers. Cook until wilted and warmed through, 3 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream, vegetable broth, and 1/4 cup pasta water and bring to a simmer.
Add cooked penne to pan and stir until coated, then season with crushed red pepper flakes.
Garnish with Parmesan and serve.
HAWAIIAN MACARONI SALAD
This yummy macaroni salad is from Christin Mahrlig on her very cool site, Spicy Southern Kitchen. If you’ve never heard of her site (or you have, but never checked it out), I suggest you check it out ASAP. Go ahead, I’ll wait…(Tap, tap, tap…).
Anyway, the recipe begins, “Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is so fabulously creamy and simple. This mayonnaise-based pasta salad makes a wonderful side for summer bbqs and picnics.”
Prep Time: 10 mins; Cook Time: 10 mins; Total Time: 20 mins; Servings: 10
To view this online, go to https://spicysouthernkitchen.com/hawaiian-macaroni-salad/.
Ingredients
16 ounces elbow pasta
1/4 cup grated onion
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 cups mayonnaise
1/2 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon sugar
2 shredded carrots
salt and pepper
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoons kosher salt. Cook pasta according to package directions.
Place onion in a large bowl. When pasta is done, drain it well and add it to the bowl. Add garlic powder and apple cider vinegar and stir. Let sit 10 minutes.
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, and sugar.
Set aside about 1/2 a cup and add the rest to the macaroni along with carrots. Stir to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Cover and refrigerate both the bowl of macaroni salad and the reserved 1/2 a cup of mayonnaise mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Stir in the reserved mayonnaise mixture just before serving.
Recipe Notes
Be sure not to overcook your pasta or it will have a mushy texture.
If you to dress it up some, add diced ham or chopped pineapple.
Found in Loose Cannons: Devastating Dish from the World's Wildest Women, complied by Autumn Stephens, page 20.
Pasta is such a versatile food: you can use it in a variety of salads (both hot and cold), with heavy or light sauces, in layers...the only limit is one's imagination.
Here are six yummy pasta recipes to get you started, including Triple Tomato Pasta with Spinach and White Beans and Hawaiian Macaroni Salad. Enjoy!
PASTA WITH BROWN BUTTER AND PARMESAN
This comes from Ali Slagle in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Ali wrote, “Sometimes you just want a big bowl of pasta with butter and Parmesan. Starchy, silky and salty, it’s always good — and practically foolproof. To make it a little more grown up, just take it one step further: Brown the butter. When you slide the butter into the skillet, let it cook until the milk solids turn a toasty brown. It adds a rich, nutty flavor that makes the dish a bit more sophisticated with very little extra work.”
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 25 minutes.
To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019980-pasta-with-brown-butter-and-parmesan.
Ingredients
Kosher salt
1 pound spaghetti, linguine or other long noodle
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
Freshly ground black pepper
Preparation
Bring a large pot of heavily salted water (2 heaping tablespoons kosher salt to about 7 quarts water) to a boil. Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta, but don’t shake it fully dry.
In a skillet or Dutch oven large enough to hold the pasta (and preferably with a light-colored bottom so you can see the butter solids brown), melt the butter over medium heat. Cook, swirling occasionally, until the foam subsides, the milk solids turn golden-brown and it smells nutty and toasty, 3 to 4 minutes. (Watch carefully to see that it does not burn. If it does, start over.) Remove from heat immediately.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the brown butter. Stir in the cheese until melted. Stir in pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the pasta is glossy with sauce (you probably won’t need the full 1/2 cup).
Serve with black pepper and more Parmesan on top.
PASTA ALLA NORMA
This recipe comes from Pure Wow, and begins, “If you’re taking a trip to Italy soon, that’s amazing. (We’re totally jealous.) But for the rest of us, this Sicilian dish from Catania is the next best thing. Presenting pasta alla Norma with eggplant, basil and pecorino cheese. Best of all, you can make four servings for less than $10. Salute!”
PREP: 20 MIN; COOK: 40 MIN; TOTAL: 1 HR; Makes: 4 servings
To view this online, go to https://www.purewow.com/recipes/pasta-alla-norma
Ingredients
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large eggplant, sliced into 1-inch strips
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves
One 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1 pound bite-size dry pasta, like rigatoni
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup grated pecorino cheese
Directions
In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant in batches and cook on all sides until golden brown. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside on a large plate. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the onion to the same pan and sauté until tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, 1 minute more.
Stir in the tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Add the red-pepper flakes and oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes, until the flavor of the sauce develops.
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to the instructions on the package. Drain well.
Add the pasta and eggplant to the sauce; toss well to coat. Add the parsley, basil and pecorino, and toss well to combine. Serve immediately.
TRIPLE TOMATO PASTA WITH SPINACH AND WHITE BEANS
This comes from Molly Cleary, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC on VeryWellFit. Molly wrote, “Tomatoes get their red color from lycopene, an antioxidant that may help to prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease. Cooking tomatoes actually helps to increase lycopene content, therefore potentially boosting its disease-fighting power.
“In addition to lycopene, this recipe also provides great nutritional benefits from the cannellini beans. These beans are full of fiber, at 6 grams per half cup serving. They are also one of the highest potassium beans out there, a micronutrient and electrolyte that can help lower blood pressure.”
Total Time: 30 minutes; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 4
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
8 ounces whole wheat penne pasta
1 can low sodium cannellini beans
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 package baby spinach
2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil
1/4 cup sliced/slivered almonds
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic (or 1 teaspoon minced)
2 teaspoons dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
Combine pesto ingredients (slivered almonds through crushed red pepper) in a food processor and blend until mostly smooth; some small chunks are okay. You may need to a litter water to thin, but do not add more than a few tablespoons since the sauce is meant to be thick.
Drain and rinse cannellini beans.
Add olive oil to a pan and heat to medium high. Add baby spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
Combine the pasta, beans, spinach, and tomatoes into one large pot. Add the pesto and mix well.
Divide into 4 bowls and serve.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
If you cannot find sun-dried tomatoes in oil, then you can substitute 3/4 cup bagged sun-dried tomatoes with 1/4 cup olive oil. It works best if tomatoes are soaked in the oil for at least an hour.
Cooking and Serving Tips
Leftover pesto tastes delicious as a sandwich spread. It also freezes well.
HUNGARIAN CABBAGE WITH NOODLES
This recipe is from Barbara Rolek on The Spruce Eats. Barbara wrote, “This Hungarian comfort-food dish known as kaposztás tészta is a simple recipe to make, consisting of cabbage, onion, butter, egg noodles, salt, and pepper.
“Cabbage with noodles is a popular and easy dish common throughout Eastern Europe. In Poland, it's called kapusta z kluski or
“This can be a strictly vegetarian dish, sometimes with added sautéed mushrooms, or can be enhanced with bacon or other smoked meat, and it makes a terrific side dish or main-course offering that holds up well on a buffet table. If this recipe doesn't tickle your fancy, there are many more Eastern European cabbage recipes to choose from.
Total: 50 mins; Prep: 20 mins; Cook: 30 mins; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 large head cabbage (cored and shredded)
1 large onion (chopped)
8 ounces butter (2 sticks)
Salt (to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1 pound medium Hungarian egg noodles (homemade or store-bought, cooked)
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, sauté cabbage and onion in butter until golden brown and tender.
Season with salt and pepper.
Mix with cooked egg noodles. Adjust seasonings and rewarm if necessary to serve piping hot.
Serve and enjoy!
Recipe Variations
Add 1 cup sliced button, cremini or other mushrooms to the skillet with the cabbage and onion, and cook until they are all golden brown and tender.
Before serving, add 1 cup cooked, crumbled or diced bacon to the cabbage, onion, and noodles mixture.
After mixing the cabbage and onion with the noodles, add 1 cup chopped ham combining well and rewarm to serve hot.
More Hungarian Noodle Recipes
Basic Hungarian Noodle Dough Recipe: This egg dough can be transformed into thin noodles, wide noodles and everything in between.
Tarhonya or Grated Egg Noodles Recipe: These noodles are made by grating chunks of noodle dough instead of rolling and cutting. They are dried and used in soups or browned in butter as a side dish.
More About Hungarian Noodles
Hungarian egg noodles, known as Magyar tojasos teszta (MAHG-yahr toy-YAH-shohss TESS-tah) or metelt (MEH-telt), come in a staggering number of varieties, rivaled possibly only by Italian pasta.
Hungarians roll them, cut them, pinch them, grate them, and drop them. There's a noodle for every dish and a dish for every noodle.
Teszta is actually the Hungarian word for "dough" and metelt means "noodles," but they are used interchangeably.
When the word tojasos is added, we're talking about egg noodles, the pride of Hungarian cuisine. They are made with three simple ingredients—flour, eggs, and salt—and, in some kitchens, not even any salt.
No water or oil is added to authentic Hungarian noodle recipes because many cooks feel the addition of water creates longer drying times and increases the potential for the noodles to mold when stored.
CREAMY ROASTED RED PEPPER PENNE
This is from Lindsay Funston on Delish. Lindsay wrote, “With a super-light cream sauce, this spinach and roasted red pepper penne is addictive.”
Total Time: 20 minutes; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 4
To view this online, click here.
Note: This recipe originally called for chicken broth, which I've exchanged for veggie broth. Also, if you can get hold of a veggie version of heavy cream – maybe soy? Whatever – go for it.
Ingredients
12 oz. penne
1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 c. baby spinach
1 c. sliced jarred roasted red peppers
1/2 c. heavy cream
1/2 c. low-sodium vegetable broth
1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
freshly grated Parmesan, for serving
Directions
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water, and return to pot.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and garlic and cook until soft, 5 minutes, then add spinach and roasted red peppers. Cook until wilted and warmed through, 3 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream, vegetable broth, and 1/4 cup pasta water and bring to a simmer.
Add cooked penne to pan and stir until coated, then season with crushed red pepper flakes.
Garnish with Parmesan and serve.
HAWAIIAN MACARONI SALAD
This yummy macaroni salad is from Christin Mahrlig on her very cool site, Spicy Southern Kitchen. If you’ve never heard of her site (or you have, but never checked it out), I suggest you check it out ASAP. Go ahead, I’ll wait…(Tap, tap, tap…).
Anyway, the recipe begins, “Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is so fabulously creamy and simple. This mayonnaise-based pasta salad makes a wonderful side for summer bbqs and picnics.”
Prep Time: 10 mins; Cook Time: 10 mins; Total Time: 20 mins; Servings: 10
To view this online, go to https://spicysouthernkitchen.com/hawaiian-macaroni-salad/.
Ingredients
16 ounces elbow pasta
1/4 cup grated onion
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 cups mayonnaise
1/2 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon sugar
2 shredded carrots
salt and pepper
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoons kosher salt. Cook pasta according to package directions.
Place onion in a large bowl. When pasta is done, drain it well and add it to the bowl. Add garlic powder and apple cider vinegar and stir. Let sit 10 minutes.
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, and sugar.
Set aside about 1/2 a cup and add the rest to the macaroni along with carrots. Stir to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Cover and refrigerate both the bowl of macaroni salad and the reserved 1/2 a cup of mayonnaise mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Stir in the reserved mayonnaise mixture just before serving.
Recipe Notes
Be sure not to overcook your pasta or it will have a mushy texture.
If you to dress it up some, add diced ham or chopped pineapple.
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Pumpkins
I realize that pumpkins are considered autumn food, but I love pumpkin stuff any time of year. So, just because, I'm posting pumpkin recipes today, including Ginger Pumpkin Pie and Pumpkin Patch Brownies. Enjoy!
PUMPKIN FLAN WITH MAPLE CARAMEL
This yumminess comes from The Barefoot Contessa (otherwise known as Ina Garten). Serves 8 - 10; level: beginner
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
for the caramel:
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup pure Grade A maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon fleur de sel
for the pumpkin flan:
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
1/2 cup (4 ounces) Italian mascarpone
4 extra-large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon pure maple extract, such as Boyajian
2 teaspoons grated orange zest (2 oranges)
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
For the caramel, combine the sugar, maple syrup, and 1/3 cup water in a small, deep, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring to a boil, swirling the pan (don’t stir!) to dissolve the sugar. Cook at a low boil without stirring for 5 to 10 minutes, until the mixture turns a golden brown and registers 230 degrees on a candy thermometer. Watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn! Off the heat, swirl in the fleur de sel, and immediately pour into an 8 × 2-inch round cake pan (not a springform!). Set aside to cool for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, canned pumpkin, and mascarpone in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment and beat on medium-low speed until smooth. Whisk in the eggs, vanilla, maple extract, orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently pour the pumpkin mixture into the pan with the caramel so they don’t combine.
Place the pan in a roasting pan large enough to hold the cake pan flat and fill the roasting pan with enough of the hottest tap water to come halfway up the sides of the cake pan. Bake in the center of the oven for 70 to 75 minutes, until the custard is just set. It will be firm but still jiggle slightly in the middle; a knife inserted into the center of the flan will come out clean. Remove the flan from the water bath, place on a cooling rack, and cool completely. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Don’t tilt the pan or the caramel will run out!
Run a small knife around the edge of the flan. Turn a flat serving plate with a slight lip over the cake pan and flip them, turning the flan out onto the plate. The caramel should run out over the flan. Cut into wedges and serve with the caramel spooned over each slice.
PUMPKIN CRISP
This comes from Delish.com, and begins, “This crisp will make you forget pumpkin pie ever existed. The crunchy topping is the perfect accompaniment to the smooth pumpkin filling.”
Yields: 6 servings; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Cooking spray, for pan
3 eggs
1 c. granulated sugar
1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin purée
2/3 c. heavy cream
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
For the Topping
1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar
Pinch kosher salt
3/4 c. cold butter, in 1/2" cubes
1 c. chopped pecans
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a skillet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. When smooth and fully combined, add pumpkin, cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and blended. Pour into prepared pan.
In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the flour, brown sugar, and salt to combine and break up any clumps of brown sugar. Scatter the cubed butter over the dry ingredients and pulse again until crumbs form. Stir in the pecans.
In the palm of your hand, press handfuls of the topping into rough balls. Break off teaspoon-sized pieces and place over the pumpkin.
Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.
Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
PASTA WITH PUMPKIN SAUCE
This is from The Mayo Clinic diet.
Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 cups whole wheat bow-tie pasta
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 cup fat-free low-sodium vegetable broth
1 can pumpkin puree (15 ounces)
1/2 teaspoon sage, rubbed
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon parsley, dried or 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
Meanwhile, place a large skillet over medium to high heat. Add olive oil, onion, garlic and mushrooms. Cook about 10 minutes or until onion is soft.
Add broth, pumpkin, sage, salt and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer about 8 minutes. When pasta is finished cooking, drain and add it to the pumpkin mixture.
Stir to combine ingredients and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Nutritional Information: Amount per serving: Calories: 220; Total fat: 4 g; Saturated fat: 1 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Total carbohydrate: 39 g; Dietary fiber: 7 g; Protein: 10 g
PUMPKIN PATCH BROWNIES
This is from Lauren Miyashiro on Delish. The recipe begins, “The sweetest pumpkin patch you ever did see.”
Total Time: 1 hour; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 8 - 10.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 box brownie mix, plus required ingredients
1 c. white chocolate chips
1 tbsp. vegetable oil
green food coloring
1 can chocolate frosting
1 c. crushed oreos
Pumpkin candies
Directions
Preheat oven to 350° and line a 9-x-13” pan with parchment paper then grease with cooking spray. Prepare brownie batter according to package instructions. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake until a toothpick has moist crumbs, 28 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely.
In a small bowl, combine white chocolate chips, vegetable oil and green food coloring. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted. Stir until smooth then transfer to a small ziplock bag and cut the tip of one corner to pipe.
Spread chocolate frosting over the brownies, then sprinkle with crushed Oreos. Using the green chocolate, pipe vines over the surface of the brownies, then scatter pumpkin candies on top of the brownies.
Slice into squares and serve.
PUMPKIN SPICE CHEESECAKE
This is from Rian Handler on Delish. The recipe begins, “This luscious cheesecake will be your new pumpkin obsession.”
Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 8 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3/4 c. graham crackers, crushed
3/4 c. ginger snaps, crushed
6 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp. granulated sugar
kosher salt
3 (8-oz.) bars cream cheese, softened
1 c. packed light brown sugar
1 c. pumpkin puree
1/4 c. sour cream, at room temperature
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin spice, plus more for garnish
Warm caramel, for garnish
whipped cream, for garnish
Chopped, toasted pecans, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 325° with a rack in the middle position. Grease an 8” springform pan with cooking spray.
Make crust: In a large bowl, add cookie and graham cracker crumbs. Stir in butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt and mix until well combined. Press crust into bottom of pan.
Meanwhile, make cheesecake batter: In a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat cream cheese and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Add eggs, 1 at a time, until well combined, then beat in flour, pumpkin spice, and 1/4 tsp. salt. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
Double-wrap outside of pan in aluminum foil, making sure to cover the bottom. Place pan in a large baking dish, place the baking dish in the oven, and pour in enough boiling water to reach halfway up the pan. Bake until only slightly jiggly in center, 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.
With oven door propped open, turn oven off and let cool 1 hour in the oven. Remove from water bath and discard foil, then refrigerate cheesecake until cooled completely, at least 3 hours or overnight.
Garnish with a layer of caramel and a few dollops of whipped cream around the edge of the cheesecake. Sprinkle all over with pecans and more pumpkin pie spice.
GINGER PUMPKIN PIE
Kathy Kingsley is About.com's American Food expert. She writes, “Flavored with fresh ginger and honey, this pumpkin pie is sure to become one of your go-to holiday recipes.” Prep Time: 35 minutes; Cook Time: 50 minutes; Total Time: 85 minutes; Yield: Serves 8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Pastry
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 cup solid vegetable shortening
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
3 tablespoons ice water
Pumpkin Filling
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 16-ounce can solid-pack pumpkin
1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
1/3 cup honey
1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger
1 teaspoon pumpkin-pie spice
1/4 teaspoon salt
Honey Whipped Cream
3/4 cup heavy or whipping cream, chilled
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation
Make the pastry dough: Combine the flour, sugar, vegetable shortening, and butter in a food processor and pulse on/off until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. With the motor running, add the ice water through the feed tube, and process just until the dough leaves the sides of the bowl and forms a ball.
Press the dough into a ball, then flatten it into a disc, about 1-inch thick.
On a lightly floured surface using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll the dough out into a 12-inch circle. Line a 9-inch pie pan with the dough. Turn the edges under, and crimp or flute the crust. Set the pie shell on a rimmed baking sheet.
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until blended. Brush about teaspoon of the egg around the edge of the crust.
Add the pumpkin, milk, honey, sugar, ginger, pumpkin pie spice and salt to the eggs, and mix until well blended. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
Bake the pie for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the filling is set. If the edges become too dark during baking, carefully cover them with foil strips (see Recipe Notes). Set the pie on a wire rack to cool. If not serving right away, cover and chill.
When ready to serve, make the honey whipped cream. Put the cream into a medium bowl. Add the honey and vanilla and beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form when the beaters are lifted. Serve the pie topped with the whipped cream.
Recipe Notes
• To make a foil collar to prevent edges of pie from browning too much, fold a 12-inch-long piece of foil into a strip with 3-inch-high sides. Stand the strip on the oven rack around the pie dish. Secure the overhang with a paper clip. The collar doesn't have to touch or cover the crust to protect it.
PUMPKIN FLAN WITH MAPLE CARAMEL
This yumminess comes from The Barefoot Contessa (otherwise known as Ina Garten). Serves 8 - 10; level: beginner
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
for the caramel:
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup pure Grade A maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon fleur de sel
for the pumpkin flan:
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
1/2 cup (4 ounces) Italian mascarpone
4 extra-large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon pure maple extract, such as Boyajian
2 teaspoons grated orange zest (2 oranges)
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
For the caramel, combine the sugar, maple syrup, and 1/3 cup water in a small, deep, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring to a boil, swirling the pan (don’t stir!) to dissolve the sugar. Cook at a low boil without stirring for 5 to 10 minutes, until the mixture turns a golden brown and registers 230 degrees on a candy thermometer. Watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn! Off the heat, swirl in the fleur de sel, and immediately pour into an 8 × 2-inch round cake pan (not a springform!). Set aside to cool for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, canned pumpkin, and mascarpone in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment and beat on medium-low speed until smooth. Whisk in the eggs, vanilla, maple extract, orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently pour the pumpkin mixture into the pan with the caramel so they don’t combine.
Place the pan in a roasting pan large enough to hold the cake pan flat and fill the roasting pan with enough of the hottest tap water to come halfway up the sides of the cake pan. Bake in the center of the oven for 70 to 75 minutes, until the custard is just set. It will be firm but still jiggle slightly in the middle; a knife inserted into the center of the flan will come out clean. Remove the flan from the water bath, place on a cooling rack, and cool completely. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Don’t tilt the pan or the caramel will run out!
Run a small knife around the edge of the flan. Turn a flat serving plate with a slight lip over the cake pan and flip them, turning the flan out onto the plate. The caramel should run out over the flan. Cut into wedges and serve with the caramel spooned over each slice.
PUMPKIN CRISP
This comes from Delish.com, and begins, “This crisp will make you forget pumpkin pie ever existed. The crunchy topping is the perfect accompaniment to the smooth pumpkin filling.”
Yields: 6 servings; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Cooking spray, for pan
3 eggs
1 c. granulated sugar
1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin purée
2/3 c. heavy cream
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
For the Topping
1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar
Pinch kosher salt
3/4 c. cold butter, in 1/2" cubes
1 c. chopped pecans
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a skillet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. When smooth and fully combined, add pumpkin, cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and blended. Pour into prepared pan.
In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the flour, brown sugar, and salt to combine and break up any clumps of brown sugar. Scatter the cubed butter over the dry ingredients and pulse again until crumbs form. Stir in the pecans.
In the palm of your hand, press handfuls of the topping into rough balls. Break off teaspoon-sized pieces and place over the pumpkin.
Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.
Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
PASTA WITH PUMPKIN SAUCE
This is from The Mayo Clinic diet.
Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 cups whole wheat bow-tie pasta
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 cup fat-free low-sodium vegetable broth
1 can pumpkin puree (15 ounces)
1/2 teaspoon sage, rubbed
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon parsley, dried or 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
Meanwhile, place a large skillet over medium to high heat. Add olive oil, onion, garlic and mushrooms. Cook about 10 minutes or until onion is soft.
Add broth, pumpkin, sage, salt and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer about 8 minutes. When pasta is finished cooking, drain and add it to the pumpkin mixture.
Stir to combine ingredients and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Nutritional Information: Amount per serving: Calories: 220; Total fat: 4 g; Saturated fat: 1 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Total carbohydrate: 39 g; Dietary fiber: 7 g; Protein: 10 g
PUMPKIN PATCH BROWNIES
This is from Lauren Miyashiro on Delish. The recipe begins, “The sweetest pumpkin patch you ever did see.”
Total Time: 1 hour; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 8 - 10.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 box brownie mix, plus required ingredients
1 c. white chocolate chips
1 tbsp. vegetable oil
green food coloring
1 can chocolate frosting
1 c. crushed oreos
Pumpkin candies
Directions
Preheat oven to 350° and line a 9-x-13” pan with parchment paper then grease with cooking spray. Prepare brownie batter according to package instructions. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake until a toothpick has moist crumbs, 28 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely.
In a small bowl, combine white chocolate chips, vegetable oil and green food coloring. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted. Stir until smooth then transfer to a small ziplock bag and cut the tip of one corner to pipe.
Spread chocolate frosting over the brownies, then sprinkle with crushed Oreos. Using the green chocolate, pipe vines over the surface of the brownies, then scatter pumpkin candies on top of the brownies.
Slice into squares and serve.
PUMPKIN SPICE CHEESECAKE
This is from Rian Handler on Delish. The recipe begins, “This luscious cheesecake will be your new pumpkin obsession.”
Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 8 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3/4 c. graham crackers, crushed
3/4 c. ginger snaps, crushed
6 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp. granulated sugar
kosher salt
3 (8-oz.) bars cream cheese, softened
1 c. packed light brown sugar
1 c. pumpkin puree
1/4 c. sour cream, at room temperature
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin spice, plus more for garnish
Warm caramel, for garnish
whipped cream, for garnish
Chopped, toasted pecans, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 325° with a rack in the middle position. Grease an 8” springform pan with cooking spray.
Make crust: In a large bowl, add cookie and graham cracker crumbs. Stir in butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt and mix until well combined. Press crust into bottom of pan.
Meanwhile, make cheesecake batter: In a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat cream cheese and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Add eggs, 1 at a time, until well combined, then beat in flour, pumpkin spice, and 1/4 tsp. salt. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
Double-wrap outside of pan in aluminum foil, making sure to cover the bottom. Place pan in a large baking dish, place the baking dish in the oven, and pour in enough boiling water to reach halfway up the pan. Bake until only slightly jiggly in center, 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.
With oven door propped open, turn oven off and let cool 1 hour in the oven. Remove from water bath and discard foil, then refrigerate cheesecake until cooled completely, at least 3 hours or overnight.
Garnish with a layer of caramel and a few dollops of whipped cream around the edge of the cheesecake. Sprinkle all over with pecans and more pumpkin pie spice.
GINGER PUMPKIN PIE
Kathy Kingsley is About.com's American Food expert. She writes, “Flavored with fresh ginger and honey, this pumpkin pie is sure to become one of your go-to holiday recipes.” Prep Time: 35 minutes; Cook Time: 50 minutes; Total Time: 85 minutes; Yield: Serves 8
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Pastry
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 cup solid vegetable shortening
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
3 tablespoons ice water
Pumpkin Filling
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 16-ounce can solid-pack pumpkin
1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
1/3 cup honey
1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger
1 teaspoon pumpkin-pie spice
1/4 teaspoon salt
Honey Whipped Cream
3/4 cup heavy or whipping cream, chilled
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation
Make the pastry dough: Combine the flour, sugar, vegetable shortening, and butter in a food processor and pulse on/off until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. With the motor running, add the ice water through the feed tube, and process just until the dough leaves the sides of the bowl and forms a ball.
Press the dough into a ball, then flatten it into a disc, about 1-inch thick.
On a lightly floured surface using a lightly floured rolling pin, roll the dough out into a 12-inch circle. Line a 9-inch pie pan with the dough. Turn the edges under, and crimp or flute the crust. Set the pie shell on a rimmed baking sheet.
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until blended. Brush about teaspoon of the egg around the edge of the crust.
Add the pumpkin, milk, honey, sugar, ginger, pumpkin pie spice and salt to the eggs, and mix until well blended. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
Bake the pie for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the filling is set. If the edges become too dark during baking, carefully cover them with foil strips (see Recipe Notes). Set the pie on a wire rack to cool. If not serving right away, cover and chill.
When ready to serve, make the honey whipped cream. Put the cream into a medium bowl. Add the honey and vanilla and beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form when the beaters are lifted. Serve the pie topped with the whipped cream.
Recipe Notes
• To make a foil collar to prevent edges of pie from browning too much, fold a 12-inch-long piece of foil into a strip with 3-inch-high sides. Stand the strip on the oven rack around the pie dish. Secure the overhang with a paper clip. The collar doesn't have to touch or cover the crust to protect it.
Tuesday, June 11, 2019
Cake - Double-Post Tuesday
Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday. Today's double post deals with cake, that dessert that simply screams celebration. Today's cake recipes include Lemon Snacking Cake With Coconut Glaze and Apple Spice Cake with Vanilla Butter Sauce. Enjoy!
CHOCOLATE GUINNESS CAKE
This comes from Nigella Lawson in The New York Times' cooking newsletter. Nigella writes, “For me, a chocolate cake is the basic unit of celebration. The chocolate Guinness cake here is simple but deeply pleasurable, and has earned its place as a stand-alone treat.” Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; one 9-inch cake or 12 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
Butter for pan
1 cup Guinness stout
10 tablespoons (1 stick plus 2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
2 cups superfine sugar
3/4 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
For the Topping:
1 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar
8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
1/2 cup heavy cream
Preparation:
For the cake: heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-inch springform pan and line with parchment paper. In a large saucepan, combine Guinness and butter. Place over medium-low heat until butter melts, then remove from heat. Add cocoa and superfine sugar, and whisk to blend.
In a small bowl, combine sour cream, eggs and vanilla; mix well. Add to Guinness mixture. Add flour and baking soda, and whisk again until smooth. Pour into buttered pan, and bake until risen and firm, 45 minutes to one hour. Place pan on a wire rack and cool completely in pan.
For the topping: Using a food processor or by hand, mix confectioners' sugar to break up lumps. Add cream cheese and blend until smooth. Add heavy cream, and mix until smooth and spreadable.
Remove cake from pan and place on a platter or cake stand. Ice top of cake only, so that it resembles a frothy pint of Guinness.
APPLE SPICE CAKE WITH VANILLA BUTTER SAUCE
This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 10 servings.
Ingredients
1 cup flour
1 tablespoon Apple Pie Spice
1 teaspoon Ground Allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
2 apples (Granny Smith or Gala), peeled and chopped (about 2 cups)
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Vanilla Butter Sauce (recipe follows)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix flour, apple pie spice, allspice and salt in small bowl; set aside.
Beat butter and sugar in large bowl with mixer on medium speed 5 minutes or until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla on low speed just until blended. Gradually beat in flour mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in apples, raisins and walnuts. Spread evenly in greased 9-inch round cake pan.
Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Invert cake onto serving plate.
Serve warm with Vanilla Butter Sauce.
Vanilla Butter Sauce:
Bring 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter and 1/2 cup heavy cream to boil in 2-quart saucepan on medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons Pure Vanilla Extract. Serve warm. Makes about 1 1/2 cups.
Test Kitchen Tip: The cake and sauce can be prepared and refrigerated separately the day before. Warm the cake in the oven and the sauce on top of the stove before serving.
TOMATO SOUP CAKE
This came from Carroll Pellegrinelli on The Spruce Eats. She wrote, “Tomato Soup Cake you say? Yuk. That’s what I thought about this cake. It’s not like that at all. First of all, you can’t even taste or smell any tomatoes. Secondly, if you enjoy spice cakes, you’ll enjoy this one too. The cream cheese frosting makes it taste even better.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 60 minutes; Yield: 24 pieces (24 servings)
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/3 cups sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon*
1/2 teaspoon cloves*
1 1/2 teaspoon allspice*
1 10 ounce can tomato soup
1/2 cup butter (melted or vegetable oil)
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk (or water)
For the Frosting:
1 pound cream cheese (room temperature)
1/2 cup/4 ounces butter (room temperature)
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon vanilla
4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Preheat the oven to 350 F. (325 degrees F. for a dark or glass pan). Grease an 13 x 9 baking pan. Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground all spice in a large bowl with a wire whisk. Set the bowl aside. In a medium bowl, combine the tomato soup, melted butter, eggs and milk. Mix completely. Add the soup mixture to the flour mixture and mix until completely combined. Carefully, pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake the cake for at least 40 minutes or until it is tested done. Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack.
Once the cake is completely cool, make the frosting. Beat the cream cheese until it’s fluffy. Add the butter until the mixture is even fluffier. Slowly add the milk. Be sure to mix each time the milk is added. Add the vanilla and continue to mix the frosting. Slowly add the powdered sugar. Continue to add the sugar until all of it is used. If the frosting seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time. Frost the cake with the cream cheese frosting. If you don’t want that much frosting, the excess can be frozen for a later use.
*Feel free to substitute nutmeg for one of the spices you don't happen to have.
LEMON SNACKING CAKE WITH COCONUT GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “With a poundcake-like texture and zippy lemon flavor, this tender treat is loaded with grated citrus zest and topped with a sweet, mellow coconut frosting. Like many snacking cakes, it’s easily whisked together without a mixer, and quick to bake. Perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up, it goes as well with a glass of milk as it does with mugs of coffee, tea or hot cocoa.”
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola, plus more for pan
3 lemons
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 packed cup shredded sweetened coconut
For the Glaze:
3 tablespoons coconut milk
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
Pinch of fine sea salt
2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
Finely grated lemon zest, for garnish
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edge of the pan by at least 2 inches.
Grate 2 tablespoons of zest from the lemons. Juice the lemons so you have 1/4 cup juice. Add juice and zest to a medium bowl, then whisk in oil, sour cream, coconut milk and eggs.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk wet mixture into dry mixture until smooth.
Scrape batter into baking pan and spread in an even layer. Sprinkle evenly with shredded sweetened coconut. Bake until the top of the cake springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, 35 to 45 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, oil and salt. Whisk in the confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Pour over the cake, and grate some lemon zest over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
DUMP CAKE
This came from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
1 (15 oz) can crushed pineapple
1 (18 oz) pkg. yellow cake mix
8 oz. chopped walnuts
1/2 C. butter (melted)
Directions
In a 9x13 pan mix cherry pie filling and pineapple. Sprinkle dry cake mix over pineapple and cherry mixture, stir until just combined. Then sprinkle walnuts over top. Drizzle top with melted butter. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
LEMON-SPICE VISITING CAKE
This comes from Dorie Greenspan on The New York Times cooking emailing list. Dorie wrote, “Whether you pack this cake as a gift or have it ready when visitors come to you, the imperative to share is implicit in its name. The cake is built for comfort and durability – make it on Thursday or Friday and have it all weekend. And if it stales, toast it; the heat will intensify the lemon and spice deliciously. The cake is easy to make (no machines needed) and, like all spice cakes, better after a day’s rest. Giving it a swish of warmed marmalade when it comes out of the oven is optional. What shouldn't be passed up is what I call the ‘lemon trick’: Use your fingertips to rub the recipe’s lemon and sugar together until the sugar is moist and aromatic. This easy step transfers everything essential from the lemon to the cake. Think of it as aromatherapy for the cake and you.”
Yield: 10 servings; Time: 85 minutes.
This yumminess was featured in “A Cake You Can Take With You Anywhere” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
Butter and flour for the pan
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 large (or 2 small) lemons
4 large eggs, at room temperature
1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
5 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1/3 cup marmalade (for optional glaze)
1/2 teaspoon water (for optional glaze)
Preparation
Center a rack in the oven, and preheat it to 350. Butter an 8 1/2-inch loaf pan (Pyrex works well), dust with flour and tap out the excess. (For this cake, bakers’ spray isn’t as good as butter and flour.) Place on a baking sheet.
Whisk the 1 1/2 cups flour, baking powder, cardamom, ginger and salt together.
Put the sugar in a large bowl, and grate the zest of the lemon(s) over the sugar. Squeeze the lemon(s) to produce 3 tablespoons juice, and set this aside. Using your fingers, rub the sugar and zest together until the mixture is moist and aromatic. One at a time, add the eggs, whisking well after each. Whisk in the juice, followed by the heavy cream. Still using the whisk, gently stir the dry ingredients into the batter in two additions. Stir the vanilla into the melted butter, and then gradually blend the butter into the batter. The batter will be thick and have a beautiful sheen. Scrape it into the loaf pan.
Bake for 70 to 75 minutes (if the cake looks as if it’s getting too dark too quickly, tent it loosely with foil) or until a tester inserted deep into the center of the cake comes out clean. Transfer to a rack, let rest for 5 minutes and then carefully run a blunt knife between the sides of the cake and the pan. Invert onto the rack, and turn over. Glaze now, or cool to room temperature.
For the glaze: Bring the marmalade and water to a boil. Brush the glaze over the top of the warm cake, and allow to it to set for 2 hours. The glaze will remain slightly tacky.
When the cake is completely cool, wrap in plastic to store. If it’s glazed, wrap loosely on top.
CHOCOLATE GUINNESS CAKE
This comes from Nigella Lawson in The New York Times' cooking newsletter. Nigella writes, “For me, a chocolate cake is the basic unit of celebration. The chocolate Guinness cake here is simple but deeply pleasurable, and has earned its place as a stand-alone treat.” Time: 1 hour 15 minutes; one 9-inch cake or 12 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
Butter for pan
1 cup Guinness stout
10 tablespoons (1 stick plus 2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
2 cups superfine sugar
3/4 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
For the Topping:
1 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar
8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
1/2 cup heavy cream
Preparation:
For the cake: heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-inch springform pan and line with parchment paper. In a large saucepan, combine Guinness and butter. Place over medium-low heat until butter melts, then remove from heat. Add cocoa and superfine sugar, and whisk to blend.
In a small bowl, combine sour cream, eggs and vanilla; mix well. Add to Guinness mixture. Add flour and baking soda, and whisk again until smooth. Pour into buttered pan, and bake until risen and firm, 45 minutes to one hour. Place pan on a wire rack and cool completely in pan.
For the topping: Using a food processor or by hand, mix confectioners' sugar to break up lumps. Add cream cheese and blend until smooth. Add heavy cream, and mix until smooth and spreadable.
Remove cake from pan and place on a platter or cake stand. Ice top of cake only, so that it resembles a frothy pint of Guinness.
APPLE SPICE CAKE WITH VANILLA BUTTER SAUCE
This comes from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 10 servings.
Ingredients
1 cup flour
1 tablespoon Apple Pie Spice
1 teaspoon Ground Allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
2 apples (Granny Smith or Gala), peeled and chopped (about 2 cups)
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Vanilla Butter Sauce (recipe follows)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix flour, apple pie spice, allspice and salt in small bowl; set aside.
Beat butter and sugar in large bowl with mixer on medium speed 5 minutes or until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla on low speed just until blended. Gradually beat in flour mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in apples, raisins and walnuts. Spread evenly in greased 9-inch round cake pan.
Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Invert cake onto serving plate.
Serve warm with Vanilla Butter Sauce.
Vanilla Butter Sauce:
Bring 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter and 1/2 cup heavy cream to boil in 2-quart saucepan on medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons Pure Vanilla Extract. Serve warm. Makes about 1 1/2 cups.
Test Kitchen Tip: The cake and sauce can be prepared and refrigerated separately the day before. Warm the cake in the oven and the sauce on top of the stove before serving.
TOMATO SOUP CAKE
This came from Carroll Pellegrinelli on The Spruce Eats. She wrote, “Tomato Soup Cake you say? Yuk. That’s what I thought about this cake. It’s not like that at all. First of all, you can’t even taste or smell any tomatoes. Secondly, if you enjoy spice cakes, you’ll enjoy this one too. The cream cheese frosting makes it taste even better.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 40 minutes; Total Time: 60 minutes; Yield: 24 pieces (24 servings)
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/3 cups sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon*
1/2 teaspoon cloves*
1 1/2 teaspoon allspice*
1 10 ounce can tomato soup
1/2 cup butter (melted or vegetable oil)
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk (or water)
For the Frosting:
1 pound cream cheese (room temperature)
1/2 cup/4 ounces butter (room temperature)
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon vanilla
4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Preheat the oven to 350 F. (325 degrees F. for a dark or glass pan). Grease an 13 x 9 baking pan. Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground all spice in a large bowl with a wire whisk. Set the bowl aside. In a medium bowl, combine the tomato soup, melted butter, eggs and milk. Mix completely. Add the soup mixture to the flour mixture and mix until completely combined. Carefully, pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake the cake for at least 40 minutes or until it is tested done. Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack.
Once the cake is completely cool, make the frosting. Beat the cream cheese until it’s fluffy. Add the butter until the mixture is even fluffier. Slowly add the milk. Be sure to mix each time the milk is added. Add the vanilla and continue to mix the frosting. Slowly add the powdered sugar. Continue to add the sugar until all of it is used. If the frosting seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time. Frost the cake with the cream cheese frosting. If you don’t want that much frosting, the excess can be frozen for a later use.
*Feel free to substitute nutmeg for one of the spices you don't happen to have.
LEMON SNACKING CAKE WITH COCONUT GLAZE
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Melissa wrote, “With a poundcake-like texture and zippy lemon flavor, this tender treat is loaded with grated citrus zest and topped with a sweet, mellow coconut frosting. Like many snacking cakes, it’s easily whisked together without a mixer, and quick to bake. Perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up, it goes as well with a glass of milk as it does with mugs of coffee, tea or hot cocoa.”
Yield: 12 servings; Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
This was featured in “Three Snacking Cakes to Change Your Afternoons”, and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1/2 cup neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola, plus more for pan
3 lemons
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 packed cup shredded sweetened coconut
For the Glaze:
3 tablespoons coconut milk
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
Pinch of fine sea salt
2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
Finely grated lemon zest, for garnish
Preparation
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch pan, and then line with parchment paper, letting the two long ends hang over the edge of the pan by at least 2 inches.
Grate 2 tablespoons of zest from the lemons. Juice the lemons so you have 1/4 cup juice. Add juice and zest to a medium bowl, then whisk in oil, sour cream, coconut milk and eggs.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk wet mixture into dry mixture until smooth.
Scrape batter into baking pan and spread in an even layer. Sprinkle evenly with shredded sweetened coconut. Bake until the top of the cake springs back when lightly pressed in the center, and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, 35 to 45 minutes. Let cool completely.
When cake is cool, make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, oil and salt. Whisk in the confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Pour over the cake, and grate some lemon zest over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
DUMP CAKE
This came from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.
Ingredients
1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
1 (15 oz) can crushed pineapple
1 (18 oz) pkg. yellow cake mix
8 oz. chopped walnuts
1/2 C. butter (melted)
Directions
In a 9x13 pan mix cherry pie filling and pineapple. Sprinkle dry cake mix over pineapple and cherry mixture, stir until just combined. Then sprinkle walnuts over top. Drizzle top with melted butter. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
LEMON-SPICE VISITING CAKE
This comes from Dorie Greenspan on The New York Times cooking emailing list. Dorie wrote, “Whether you pack this cake as a gift or have it ready when visitors come to you, the imperative to share is implicit in its name. The cake is built for comfort and durability – make it on Thursday or Friday and have it all weekend. And if it stales, toast it; the heat will intensify the lemon and spice deliciously. The cake is easy to make (no machines needed) and, like all spice cakes, better after a day’s rest. Giving it a swish of warmed marmalade when it comes out of the oven is optional. What shouldn't be passed up is what I call the ‘lemon trick’: Use your fingertips to rub the recipe’s lemon and sugar together until the sugar is moist and aromatic. This easy step transfers everything essential from the lemon to the cake. Think of it as aromatherapy for the cake and you.”
Yield: 10 servings; Time: 85 minutes.
This yumminess was featured in “A Cake You Can Take With You Anywhere” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
Butter and flour for the pan
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 large (or 2 small) lemons
4 large eggs, at room temperature
1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
5 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1/3 cup marmalade (for optional glaze)
1/2 teaspoon water (for optional glaze)
Preparation
Center a rack in the oven, and preheat it to 350. Butter an 8 1/2-inch loaf pan (Pyrex works well), dust with flour and tap out the excess. (For this cake, bakers’ spray isn’t as good as butter and flour.) Place on a baking sheet.
Whisk the 1 1/2 cups flour, baking powder, cardamom, ginger and salt together.
Put the sugar in a large bowl, and grate the zest of the lemon(s) over the sugar. Squeeze the lemon(s) to produce 3 tablespoons juice, and set this aside. Using your fingers, rub the sugar and zest together until the mixture is moist and aromatic. One at a time, add the eggs, whisking well after each. Whisk in the juice, followed by the heavy cream. Still using the whisk, gently stir the dry ingredients into the batter in two additions. Stir the vanilla into the melted butter, and then gradually blend the butter into the batter. The batter will be thick and have a beautiful sheen. Scrape it into the loaf pan.
Bake for 70 to 75 minutes (if the cake looks as if it’s getting too dark too quickly, tent it loosely with foil) or until a tester inserted deep into the center of the cake comes out clean. Transfer to a rack, let rest for 5 minutes and then carefully run a blunt knife between the sides of the cake and the pan. Invert onto the rack, and turn over. Glaze now, or cool to room temperature.
For the glaze: Bring the marmalade and water to a boil. Brush the glaze over the top of the warm cake, and allow to it to set for 2 hours. The glaze will remain slightly tacky.
When the cake is completely cool, wrap in plastic to store. If it’s glazed, wrap loosely on top.
Taco Tuesday
It's time for another Taco Tuesday. (If you're like me, you don't mind an occasional taco or two!) Today's offerings include Spicy Thai Tacos and Black Bean Tacos with Roasted Peppers and Onions. Enjoy!
MOCHA DESSERT TACOS
I found this, along with five other taco recipes, on the Runner’s World website (posted on June 26, 2018), though it’s originally from the Prevention test kitchen.
This recipe begins, “These blueberry-pancake taco shells are made from whole wheat flour for extra heart-healthy magnesium (a mineral the typical American diet falls short on).”
Serves: 6; Prep Time: 5 minutes; Total Times: 25 minutes
This can be found at https://www.runnersworld.com/nutrition-weight-loss/a21946015/healthy-taco-recipes/. They were originally from: Prevention US.
Ingredients
4 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped
1 tsp instant espresso powder or coffee granules
2 medium bananas
3 large eggs
1 c blueberries
1/2 c whole wheat flour
2 tsp whole milk
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp kosher salt
2 tsp canola oil
2 c berries (such as blueberries and raspberries)
Directions
Microwave chocolate in 15-second bursts in microwave-safe bowl, stirring intermittently, until melted. Stir in espresso powder until smooth.
Puree bananas, eggs, blueberries, flour, milk, baking powder, and salt in blender until smooth.
Heat 1 tsp oil in large nonstick skillet over medium. Dollop 1/4 cup batter into skillet (spread slightly) and cook until top is set, 2 to 3 minutes; flip and cook until golden on bottom, 2 minutes more. Repeat with remaining batter, adding remaining oil as needed.
Fold each pancake and fill with berries. Drizzle with chocolate-coffee sauce.
Per serving: 260 calories, 7 g protein, 36 g carb, 7 g fiber, 18 g sugars (9 g added sugars), 11 g fat, 4.5 g sat fat, 94 mg cholesterol, 163 mg sodium
SPICY THAI TACOS
I originally found this at Oh My Veggies. The site has a mess of taco recipes from different places, which can be found here.
This from Spabettie and can be viewed online at https://www.spabettie.com/2012/09/18/spicy-thai-tacos-taco-tuesday/. This recipe is dairy and gluten free, and vegan.
Ingredients
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 tablespoon sesame oil
juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon tamari
1 clove garlic, minced fine
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 block extra firm tofu, cut into strips
fresh corn, cut from cob
broccoli slaw
corn tortillas
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, sriracha, sesame oil, lime juice, tamari, garlic, and chili powder. Arrange tofu strips on (prepared – silpat, parchment or spray) baking sheet, brush with marinade to coat completely (you will have extra marinade for sauce). Bake at 325 for 25 minutes – can also be grilled on an outdoor grill.
Serve in corn tortillas with fresh corn and broccoli slaw as garnish, drizzled with remaining marinade.
CRISPY THAI ROASTED CAULIFLOWER TACOS [VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE]
This comes from One Green Planet, and starts off, “These cauliflower tacos are an explosion of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. The crispy Thai cauliflower is mellowed by a tasty slaw and the whole taco is tied together with a delightful avocado-lime sauce. These tacos are sure to be crowd pleasers.”
This recipe is: Dairy-Free and Vegan; Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Tacos:
1 tablespoon red curry paste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
4 cups cauliflower florets
2 teaspoon Thai seasoning (see below)
4 small, gluten-free tortillas
For the Slaw:
3 cups purple cabbage, shredded
1 carrot, shredded
3 tablespoon cilantro, coarsely chopped
1 tablespoon flaked toasted coconut
2 teaspoon each extra virgin olive oil and lime juice
1 teaspoon agave
1 jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced
For the Avocado Lime Drizzle:
1 avocado, pitted
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup water
2 limes, peeled (flesh only – take the skin and white bits off with a knife)
For the Thai Seasoning:
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried lemon zest
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon powdered ginger
1 teaspoon ground coriander
A few pinches of dried chili flakes
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
In a bowl, whisk together the curry paste, olive oil, and lime juice to make a thinner paste.
Toss the cauliflower in the mixture and stir it to coat.
In a small jar, combine all spices for the Thai seasoning and shake them together to blend.
Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of the Thai seasoning over the cauliflower and stir it to coat.
Line a baking sheet with foil and scatter the cauliflower florets in a single layer.
Roast them for 15-20 minutes or until they are crispy.
Meanwhile, combine all ingredients for the cabbage slaw in a large bowl.
Stir the olive oil, lime juice, and agave together. Then, pour it over the slaw and stir everything in.
In a blender, puree all ingredients for the avocado drizzle. Transfer it to a bottle with a squeeze top, or a sealed jar as you’ll have extra to store in the fridge.
When the cauliflower is ready, remove it from the oven.
Divide the cabbage slaw between 3-4 tortillas, then evenly distribute the roasted cauliflower. Drizzle the tacos with avocado sauce and garnish with additional cilantro and toasted coconut if desired.
AMERICAN BBQ TACOS
This is from Vegetarian Times, and begins, “For authentic Southern flavor, top these tacos with prepared coleslaw instead of shredded lettuce.” Yield: Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
BBQ Sauce
1 1/2 Tbs. ketchup
1 Tbs. vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. honey
1/8 tsp. hot sauce, or more to taste
Tacos
1 1/2 Tbs. vegetable oil
1 cup sliced button mushrooms
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1 cup soy crumbles, such as Lightlife Gimme Lean
4 6-inch corn or flour tortillas, warmed
2 Tbs. chopped red onion
1/3 cup grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup shredded Romaine lettuce
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 Tbs. pickle relish, optional
Instructions:
To make BBQ Sauce: Combine all ingredients in bowl.
To make Tacos: Heat oil in nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms, bell pepper, and carrots, and cook 3 minutes, or until vegetables are softened, stirring halfway through. Add soy crumbles and 2 Tbs. BBQ Sauce. Cook 8 minutes, or until soy crumbles are browned.
Fill tortillas with soy crumble mixture. Top with red onion, tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, and relish, if desired. Serve with BBQ Sauce.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 178; Protein: 12 g; Total Fat: 10 g; Saturated Fat: 3.5 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Cholesterol: 15 mg; Sodium: 409 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 4 g
BLACK BEAN TACOS WITH ROASTED PEPPERS AND ONIONS
This comes from Vegetarian Times. This one begins, “For a fast meal that’s a surefire crowd-pleaser, these tacos fit the bill.” Yield: Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
Roasted Peppers and Onions
3 red bell peppers, thinly sliced (3 cups)
1 large onion, thinly sliced (1 1/2 cups)
1 Tbs. olive oil
Tacos
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped (1 cup)
6 cloves garlic, minced (2 Tbs.)
2 15-oz. cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 15-oz. can diced organic fire-roasted tomatoes
1 Tbs. chili powder
1 Tbs. ground cumin
1/8 tsp. hot sauce, or more to taste
16 organic corn taco shells, warmed
Toppings
3 cups shredded lettuce
1 16-oz. container prepared salsa
2 large tomatoes, diced (2 cups)
2 avocados, diced (2 cups)
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup low-fat sour cream
Instructions:
To make Roasted Peppers and Onions: Preheat oven to 450°F. Toss peppers and onion with oil on large baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper. Roast 15 minutes, stir, and roast 15 minutes more, or until vegetables are tender and peppers are beginning to blacken. Transfer to small bowl.
Meanwhile, to make Tacos: Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until soft. Add garlic, and cook 1 minute more, or until fragrant. Stir in beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, hot sauce, and 1 cup water. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 15 minutes, or until most of liquid has evaporated, stirring occasionally. Mash beans until filling is thickened, but chunky, and most beans remain intact. Adjust seasonings, if necessary. Transfer to serving bowl. Pass taco shells, filling, Roasted Peppers and Onions, and Toppings around the table.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 482; Protein: 16 g; Total Fat: 22 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 57 g; Cholesterol: 17 mg; Sodium: 665 mg; Fiber: 12 g; Sugar: 14 g
POTATO TACOS
Potato Tacos? Sure, why not? This comes from Vegetarian Times, and begins, "These tasty tacos are spicy! Feel free to reduce the amount of chipotle if you prefer milder flavor." Serves 2.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
1 tsp. vegetable oil
1/2 medium onion, diced
1/2 small red bell pepper, diced
1 small clove garlic, minced
1/2 canned chipotle chili in adobo sauce
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 medium potato, baked and diced
1 to 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
1 Tbs. chopped fresh cilantro
2 whole wheat tortillas, warmed
Instructions:
In large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper and garlic and cook, stirring often, until almost tender, 3 to 4 minutes.
Add chipotle, cumin and oregano and stir 30 seconds. Add potato, toss well to coat and heat through. Stir in lemon juice and cilantro and remove from heat. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Divide potato mixture among tortillas and serve hot, garnished with condiments as desired.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 226; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Carbohydrates: 51 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 181 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 0 g
MOCHA DESSERT TACOS
I found this, along with five other taco recipes, on the Runner’s World website (posted on June 26, 2018), though it’s originally from the Prevention test kitchen.
This recipe begins, “These blueberry-pancake taco shells are made from whole wheat flour for extra heart-healthy magnesium (a mineral the typical American diet falls short on).”
Serves: 6; Prep Time: 5 minutes; Total Times: 25 minutes
This can be found at https://www.runnersworld.com/nutrition-weight-loss/a21946015/healthy-taco-recipes/. They were originally from: Prevention US.
Ingredients
4 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped
1 tsp instant espresso powder or coffee granules
2 medium bananas
3 large eggs
1 c blueberries
1/2 c whole wheat flour
2 tsp whole milk
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp kosher salt
2 tsp canola oil
2 c berries (such as blueberries and raspberries)
Directions
Microwave chocolate in 15-second bursts in microwave-safe bowl, stirring intermittently, until melted. Stir in espresso powder until smooth.
Puree bananas, eggs, blueberries, flour, milk, baking powder, and salt in blender until smooth.
Heat 1 tsp oil in large nonstick skillet over medium. Dollop 1/4 cup batter into skillet (spread slightly) and cook until top is set, 2 to 3 minutes; flip and cook until golden on bottom, 2 minutes more. Repeat with remaining batter, adding remaining oil as needed.
Fold each pancake and fill with berries. Drizzle with chocolate-coffee sauce.
Per serving: 260 calories, 7 g protein, 36 g carb, 7 g fiber, 18 g sugars (9 g added sugars), 11 g fat, 4.5 g sat fat, 94 mg cholesterol, 163 mg sodium
SPICY THAI TACOS
I originally found this at Oh My Veggies. The site has a mess of taco recipes from different places, which can be found here.
This from Spabettie and can be viewed online at https://www.spabettie.com/2012/09/18/spicy-thai-tacos-taco-tuesday/. This recipe is dairy and gluten free, and vegan.
Ingredients
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 tablespoon sesame oil
juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon tamari
1 clove garlic, minced fine
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 block extra firm tofu, cut into strips
fresh corn, cut from cob
broccoli slaw
corn tortillas
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, sriracha, sesame oil, lime juice, tamari, garlic, and chili powder. Arrange tofu strips on (prepared – silpat, parchment or spray) baking sheet, brush with marinade to coat completely (you will have extra marinade for sauce). Bake at 325 for 25 minutes – can also be grilled on an outdoor grill.
Serve in corn tortillas with fresh corn and broccoli slaw as garnish, drizzled with remaining marinade.
CRISPY THAI ROASTED CAULIFLOWER TACOS [VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE]
This comes from One Green Planet, and starts off, “These cauliflower tacos are an explosion of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. The crispy Thai cauliflower is mellowed by a tasty slaw and the whole taco is tied together with a delightful avocado-lime sauce. These tacos are sure to be crowd pleasers.”
This recipe is: Dairy-Free and Vegan; Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Tacos:
1 tablespoon red curry paste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
4 cups cauliflower florets
2 teaspoon Thai seasoning (see below)
4 small, gluten-free tortillas
For the Slaw:
3 cups purple cabbage, shredded
1 carrot, shredded
3 tablespoon cilantro, coarsely chopped
1 tablespoon flaked toasted coconut
2 teaspoon each extra virgin olive oil and lime juice
1 teaspoon agave
1 jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced
For the Avocado Lime Drizzle:
1 avocado, pitted
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup water
2 limes, peeled (flesh only – take the skin and white bits off with a knife)
For the Thai Seasoning:
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried lemon zest
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon powdered ginger
1 teaspoon ground coriander
A few pinches of dried chili flakes
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
In a bowl, whisk together the curry paste, olive oil, and lime juice to make a thinner paste.
Toss the cauliflower in the mixture and stir it to coat.
In a small jar, combine all spices for the Thai seasoning and shake them together to blend.
Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of the Thai seasoning over the cauliflower and stir it to coat.
Line a baking sheet with foil and scatter the cauliflower florets in a single layer.
Roast them for 15-20 minutes or until they are crispy.
Meanwhile, combine all ingredients for the cabbage slaw in a large bowl.
Stir the olive oil, lime juice, and agave together. Then, pour it over the slaw and stir everything in.
In a blender, puree all ingredients for the avocado drizzle. Transfer it to a bottle with a squeeze top, or a sealed jar as you’ll have extra to store in the fridge.
When the cauliflower is ready, remove it from the oven.
Divide the cabbage slaw between 3-4 tortillas, then evenly distribute the roasted cauliflower. Drizzle the tacos with avocado sauce and garnish with additional cilantro and toasted coconut if desired.
AMERICAN BBQ TACOS
This is from Vegetarian Times, and begins, “For authentic Southern flavor, top these tacos with prepared coleslaw instead of shredded lettuce.” Yield: Serves 4.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
BBQ Sauce
1 1/2 Tbs. ketchup
1 Tbs. vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. honey
1/8 tsp. hot sauce, or more to taste
Tacos
1 1/2 Tbs. vegetable oil
1 cup sliced button mushrooms
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1 cup soy crumbles, such as Lightlife Gimme Lean
4 6-inch corn or flour tortillas, warmed
2 Tbs. chopped red onion
1/3 cup grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup shredded Romaine lettuce
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 Tbs. pickle relish, optional
Instructions:
To make BBQ Sauce: Combine all ingredients in bowl.
To make Tacos: Heat oil in nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms, bell pepper, and carrots, and cook 3 minutes, or until vegetables are softened, stirring halfway through. Add soy crumbles and 2 Tbs. BBQ Sauce. Cook 8 minutes, or until soy crumbles are browned.
Fill tortillas with soy crumble mixture. Top with red onion, tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, and relish, if desired. Serve with BBQ Sauce.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 178; Protein: 12 g; Total Fat: 10 g; Saturated Fat: 3.5 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Cholesterol: 15 mg; Sodium: 409 mg; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 4 g
BLACK BEAN TACOS WITH ROASTED PEPPERS AND ONIONS
This comes from Vegetarian Times. This one begins, “For a fast meal that’s a surefire crowd-pleaser, these tacos fit the bill.” Yield: Serves 8.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
Roasted Peppers and Onions
3 red bell peppers, thinly sliced (3 cups)
1 large onion, thinly sliced (1 1/2 cups)
1 Tbs. olive oil
Tacos
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped (1 cup)
6 cloves garlic, minced (2 Tbs.)
2 15-oz. cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 15-oz. can diced organic fire-roasted tomatoes
1 Tbs. chili powder
1 Tbs. ground cumin
1/8 tsp. hot sauce, or more to taste
16 organic corn taco shells, warmed
Toppings
3 cups shredded lettuce
1 16-oz. container prepared salsa
2 large tomatoes, diced (2 cups)
2 avocados, diced (2 cups)
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup low-fat sour cream
Instructions:
To make Roasted Peppers and Onions: Preheat oven to 450°F. Toss peppers and onion with oil on large baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper. Roast 15 minutes, stir, and roast 15 minutes more, or until vegetables are tender and peppers are beginning to blacken. Transfer to small bowl.
Meanwhile, to make Tacos: Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until soft. Add garlic, and cook 1 minute more, or until fragrant. Stir in beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, hot sauce, and 1 cup water. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 15 minutes, or until most of liquid has evaporated, stirring occasionally. Mash beans until filling is thickened, but chunky, and most beans remain intact. Adjust seasonings, if necessary. Transfer to serving bowl. Pass taco shells, filling, Roasted Peppers and Onions, and Toppings around the table.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 482; Protein: 16 g; Total Fat: 22 g; Saturated Fat: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 57 g; Cholesterol: 17 mg; Sodium: 665 mg; Fiber: 12 g; Sugar: 14 g
POTATO TACOS
Potato Tacos? Sure, why not? This comes from Vegetarian Times, and begins, "These tasty tacos are spicy! Feel free to reduce the amount of chipotle if you prefer milder flavor." Serves 2.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients:
1 tsp. vegetable oil
1/2 medium onion, diced
1/2 small red bell pepper, diced
1 small clove garlic, minced
1/2 canned chipotle chili in adobo sauce
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 medium potato, baked and diced
1 to 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
1 Tbs. chopped fresh cilantro
2 whole wheat tortillas, warmed
Instructions:
In large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper and garlic and cook, stirring often, until almost tender, 3 to 4 minutes.
Add chipotle, cumin and oregano and stir 30 seconds. Add potato, toss well to coat and heat through. Stir in lemon juice and cilantro and remove from heat. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Divide potato mixture among tortillas and serve hot, garnished with condiments as desired.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 226; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Carbohydrates: 51 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 181 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 0 g
Monday, June 10, 2019
Monday Recipes
Here are six yummy recipes to start your week off just right, including Low-Fat Vegan Eggplant Lasagna and Creamy Slow Cooker Rice Pudding. Enjoy!
QUICK, HIGH-PROTEIN VEGGIE LASAGNA
This recipe is from Vegetarian Times, and was posted on their website on January 2, 2005. It begins, “This easy-to-follow recipe provides you with 21 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the soy "steak" strips. The lasagna can be assembled quickly since you don't have to cook the pasta first. Excerpted from Diet Simple by Katherine Tallmadge.” Makes 10 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. minced garlic
12 oz. soy "steak" strips
1/2 lb. eggplant, cubed
1 ripe tomato, cubed
1 zucchini, diced
2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
2 tsp. dried oregano, or to taste
1 9-oz. pkg. oven-ready lasagna sheets
2 cups low-fat ricotta cheese
2 cups low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray nonstick 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat, and brown garlic 2 to 3 minutes. Add soy strips, and sauté 2 to 3 minutes. Add eggplant, tomato, zucchini and 1 cup of marinara sauce; cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in oregano, salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, place 6 sheets of lasagna in bottom of pan, overlapping as needed to fill gaps. Spoon in eggplant mixture, and top with layer of ricotta cheese. Place remaining lasagna strips over ricotta, and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Spread remaining marinara sauce on top, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and cover pan tightly with foil. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, or until top layer of pasta is soft. Remove and serve.
LOW-FAT VEGAN EGGPLANT LASAGNA
This comes from Jolinda Hackett, who wrote for The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "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%
BAKED BANANA SPLITS
This was in an old Weight Watchers email (we're talking more than 10 years ago). The plan has changed several times since then.
This recipe begins, “Try substituting any flavored extract you like in the sauce for this creative take on banana splits. Almond, maple, rum, orange -- let your imagination run wild. They're perfect for Mother's Day!”
POINTS® Value: 4 (value from when this recipe was emailed); Servings | 4; Preparation Time: 15 min; Cooking Time: 30 min; Level of Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
1 sprays cooking spray
4 large banana(s), ripe, peeled
8 oz canned crushed pineapple in juice, drained
2 Tbsp McNeil Nutritionals SPLENDA No Calorie Sweetener, divided
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cups raspberries
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat a 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Place bananas in pan.
Combine pineapple, 1 tablespoon of Splenda and cinnamon in a small bowl; pour over bananas. Cover pan with foil and bake for 30 minutes. (Note: The canned pineapple is already sweet so omit the Splenda if you prefer.)
Meanwhile, combine ricotta, remaining tablespoon of Splenda and vanilla in another small bowl; set aside.
Place one baked banana in each of four individual serving bowls and top each with about 2 tablespoons of pineapple sauce and 1/4 cup of ricotta mixture. Top each with 1/4 cup of raspberries. Serve immediately.
Note: Okay, this is me talking. I personally would refrain from the Splenda, simply because I'm not a big fan of non-sugar (read not-quite-sure-it's-not-synthetic) sweeteners. But that's my preference. I would use sugar or no sweetener at all. It's your call here.
CREAMY SLOW COOKER RICE PUDDING
This came from Stephanie Gallagher on The Spruce Eats. Stephanie wrote, “This easy rice pudding recipe is so simple to prepare, kids can do it all by themselves. The combination of vanilla and cinnamon give this creamy rice pudding recipe a warm and homey flavor. Using a slow cooker means that you can add all the ingredients, turn it on and walk away, and then come home hours later to a creamy, comforting dessert.
“Rice pudding is made from rice, water or milk, and other ingredients like cinnamon or raisins. It's a traditional dessert that can be found nearly all over the world. The recipes vary slightly depending on the region. Depending on the preparation (boiled or baked) and ingredients (different spices, toppings, and sweeteners), each rice pudding can have its own distinct taste. You can make it as flavorful and spicy as you want, and see below for some topping ideas.”
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 3 hours; Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3/4 cup long grain rice
3 cups milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Spray the slow cooker stoneware with cooking spray.
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cook on HIGH 2 to 3 hours or LOW 4 to 5 hours (follow the directions for your slow cooker, as they may vary depending on the model).
Serve warm and add toppings if desired.
Enjoy!
Recipe Variation
You could also try making rice pudding with different kinds of milk, such as almond, soy, or coconut. Not only does it give the rice a new flavor (coconut milk would be delicious), it can be allergy friendly.
Topping Suggestions
Dust on some cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger or cardamom.
Add chopped nuts (pistachios, almonds, cashews, walnuts).
Top with dried fruit (raisins, dried apricots, cranberries).
Drizzle on some honey or sweetened condensed milk.
Sprinkle a little bit of brown sugar.
Shave milk or dark chocolate on top.
Arrange some fruit on top (bananas, berries, mangoes, coconut flakes, lemon zest).
WINTER FRUIT SALAD
This is from OnTrackDiabetes, a site with some good information for diabetics and their families.
You can view this at https://www.ontrackdiabetes.com/recipes/salads/winter-fruit-salad.
Ingredients
8 red apples, such as Jonathan or Gala, cored and diced
8 green Bartlett or Anjou pears, cored and diced
4 cups fresh strawberries, stems removed, sliced
2 cups fresh orange juice
1 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup orange-flavored liqueur (optional)
sugar substitute, to taste (optional)
4 bananas, sliced
Directions
Place all of the fruit (except bananas), juices and liqueur (if using) in a large attractive bowl. Add sugar substitute, if using. Gently mix.
Cover bowl and refrigerate 4 to 8 hours, but no longer.
Just before serving, stir in banana slices.
Nutritional Information Per serving: 131 calories (5% calories from fat), 1 g protein, 1 g total fat (0.1 g saturated fat), 33 g carbohydrates, 5 g dietary fiber, 0 cholesterol, 1 mg sodium
Diabetic exchanges: 2 carbohydrate (fruit)
VEGETARIAN MAPO TOFU
This is from David Tanis in The New York Times cooking e-newsletterr. David wrote, “Mapo tofu is a justly popular menu item in many Chinese restaurants. It is a quickly cooked dish of braised tofu with minced pork (sometimes beef) in a bracing spicy sauce made with fermented black beans and fermented broad bean paste, along with hot red pepper and Sichuan pepper. This meatless version with fresh shiitake mushrooms is completely satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. For the best texture, use soft tofu rather than firm, taking care to cook it gently to keep it from crumbling.”
Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 30 minutes
This was featured in “Mapo Tofu Goes Vegetarian”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1017358-vegetarian-mapo-tofu.
Ingredients
8 ounces shiitake mushrooms
2 cups water
15 ounce block of soft tofu (do not use silken)
Salt
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 small dried hot red peppers
1 tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed
1 tablespoon fermented spicy broad bean paste (doubanjiang)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon finely ground Sichuan pepper
1 tablespoon corn- or potato starch, dissolved in 3 tablespoons cold water
1/2 cup slivered scallions, both white and green parts
Cilantro sprigs, for garnish
Directions
Remove stems from mushrooms. Make a light mushroom broth by simmering stems in 2 cups water for 15 minutes, then strain and reserve broth (discard stems). Dice mushroom caps and set aside.
Cut tofu into 1-inch cubes. Cover with boiling salted water, let steep for 15 minutes, then drain.
Put oil in a wok or wide skillet over medium heat. Add red peppers, black beans and bean paste and cook, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add garlic and ginger and let sizzle, then add mushrooms, soy sauce, sesame oil and Sichuan pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups mushroom broth and cook mixture gently for 2 minutes.
Carefully add tofu cubes. Shake pan to distribute sauce, using a wooden spoon to help. Try to avoid smashing tofu. Drizzle in cornstarch mixture, gently swirling pan to incorporate (sauce will thicken) and simmer tofu in sauce for 2 minutes more. Thin with a little mushroom broth if necessary.
QUICK, HIGH-PROTEIN VEGGIE LASAGNA
This recipe is from Vegetarian Times, and was posted on their website on January 2, 2005. It begins, “This easy-to-follow recipe provides you with 21 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the soy "steak" strips. The lasagna can be assembled quickly since you don't have to cook the pasta first. Excerpted from Diet Simple by Katherine Tallmadge.” Makes 10 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. minced garlic
12 oz. soy "steak" strips
1/2 lb. eggplant, cubed
1 ripe tomato, cubed
1 zucchini, diced
2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
2 tsp. dried oregano, or to taste
1 9-oz. pkg. oven-ready lasagna sheets
2 cups low-fat ricotta cheese
2 cups low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray nonstick 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat, and brown garlic 2 to 3 minutes. Add soy strips, and sauté 2 to 3 minutes. Add eggplant, tomato, zucchini and 1 cup of marinara sauce; cook about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in oregano, salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, place 6 sheets of lasagna in bottom of pan, overlapping as needed to fill gaps. Spoon in eggplant mixture, and top with layer of ricotta cheese. Place remaining lasagna strips over ricotta, and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Spread remaining marinara sauce on top, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and cover pan tightly with foil. Bake 30 to 45 minutes, or until top layer of pasta is soft. Remove and serve.
LOW-FAT VEGAN EGGPLANT LASAGNA
This comes from Jolinda Hackett, who wrote for The Spruce Eats. She wrote, "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%
BAKED BANANA SPLITS
This was in an old Weight Watchers email (we're talking more than 10 years ago). The plan has changed several times since then.
This recipe begins, “Try substituting any flavored extract you like in the sauce for this creative take on banana splits. Almond, maple, rum, orange -- let your imagination run wild. They're perfect for Mother's Day!”
POINTS® Value: 4 (value from when this recipe was emailed); Servings | 4; Preparation Time: 15 min; Cooking Time: 30 min; Level of Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
1 sprays cooking spray
4 large banana(s), ripe, peeled
8 oz canned crushed pineapple in juice, drained
2 Tbsp McNeil Nutritionals SPLENDA No Calorie Sweetener, divided
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cups raspberries
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat a 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Place bananas in pan.
Combine pineapple, 1 tablespoon of Splenda and cinnamon in a small bowl; pour over bananas. Cover pan with foil and bake for 30 minutes. (Note: The canned pineapple is already sweet so omit the Splenda if you prefer.)
Meanwhile, combine ricotta, remaining tablespoon of Splenda and vanilla in another small bowl; set aside.
Place one baked banana in each of four individual serving bowls and top each with about 2 tablespoons of pineapple sauce and 1/4 cup of ricotta mixture. Top each with 1/4 cup of raspberries. Serve immediately.
Note: Okay, this is me talking. I personally would refrain from the Splenda, simply because I'm not a big fan of non-sugar (read not-quite-sure-it's-not-synthetic) sweeteners. But that's my preference. I would use sugar or no sweetener at all. It's your call here.
CREAMY SLOW COOKER RICE PUDDING
This came from Stephanie Gallagher on The Spruce Eats. Stephanie wrote, “This easy rice pudding recipe is so simple to prepare, kids can do it all by themselves. The combination of vanilla and cinnamon give this creamy rice pudding recipe a warm and homey flavor. Using a slow cooker means that you can add all the ingredients, turn it on and walk away, and then come home hours later to a creamy, comforting dessert.
“Rice pudding is made from rice, water or milk, and other ingredients like cinnamon or raisins. It's a traditional dessert that can be found nearly all over the world. The recipes vary slightly depending on the region. Depending on the preparation (boiled or baked) and ingredients (different spices, toppings, and sweeteners), each rice pudding can have its own distinct taste. You can make it as flavorful and spicy as you want, and see below for some topping ideas.”
Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 3 hours; Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes; Yield: 6 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
3/4 cup long grain rice
3 cups milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Spray the slow cooker stoneware with cooking spray.
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cook on HIGH 2 to 3 hours or LOW 4 to 5 hours (follow the directions for your slow cooker, as they may vary depending on the model).
Serve warm and add toppings if desired.
Enjoy!
Recipe Variation
You could also try making rice pudding with different kinds of milk, such as almond, soy, or coconut. Not only does it give the rice a new flavor (coconut milk would be delicious), it can be allergy friendly.
Topping Suggestions
Dust on some cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger or cardamom.
Add chopped nuts (pistachios, almonds, cashews, walnuts).
Top with dried fruit (raisins, dried apricots, cranberries).
Drizzle on some honey or sweetened condensed milk.
Sprinkle a little bit of brown sugar.
Shave milk or dark chocolate on top.
Arrange some fruit on top (bananas, berries, mangoes, coconut flakes, lemon zest).
WINTER FRUIT SALAD
This is from OnTrackDiabetes, a site with some good information for diabetics and their families.
You can view this at https://www.ontrackdiabetes.com/recipes/salads/winter-fruit-salad.
Ingredients
8 red apples, such as Jonathan or Gala, cored and diced
8 green Bartlett or Anjou pears, cored and diced
4 cups fresh strawberries, stems removed, sliced
2 cups fresh orange juice
1 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup orange-flavored liqueur (optional)
sugar substitute, to taste (optional)
4 bananas, sliced
Directions
Place all of the fruit (except bananas), juices and liqueur (if using) in a large attractive bowl. Add sugar substitute, if using. Gently mix.
Cover bowl and refrigerate 4 to 8 hours, but no longer.
Just before serving, stir in banana slices.
Nutritional Information Per serving: 131 calories (5% calories from fat), 1 g protein, 1 g total fat (0.1 g saturated fat), 33 g carbohydrates, 5 g dietary fiber, 0 cholesterol, 1 mg sodium
Diabetic exchanges: 2 carbohydrate (fruit)
VEGETARIAN MAPO TOFU
This is from David Tanis in The New York Times cooking e-newsletterr. David wrote, “Mapo tofu is a justly popular menu item in many Chinese restaurants. It is a quickly cooked dish of braised tofu with minced pork (sometimes beef) in a bracing spicy sauce made with fermented black beans and fermented broad bean paste, along with hot red pepper and Sichuan pepper. This meatless version with fresh shiitake mushrooms is completely satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. For the best texture, use soft tofu rather than firm, taking care to cook it gently to keep it from crumbling.”
Yield: 4 to 6 servings; Time: 30 minutes
This was featured in “Mapo Tofu Goes Vegetarian”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1017358-vegetarian-mapo-tofu.
Ingredients
8 ounces shiitake mushrooms
2 cups water
15 ounce block of soft tofu (do not use silken)
Salt
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 small dried hot red peppers
1 tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed
1 tablespoon fermented spicy broad bean paste (doubanjiang)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon finely ground Sichuan pepper
1 tablespoon corn- or potato starch, dissolved in 3 tablespoons cold water
1/2 cup slivered scallions, both white and green parts
Cilantro sprigs, for garnish
Directions
Remove stems from mushrooms. Make a light mushroom broth by simmering stems in 2 cups water for 15 minutes, then strain and reserve broth (discard stems). Dice mushroom caps and set aside.
Cut tofu into 1-inch cubes. Cover with boiling salted water, let steep for 15 minutes, then drain.
Put oil in a wok or wide skillet over medium heat. Add red peppers, black beans and bean paste and cook, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add garlic and ginger and let sizzle, then add mushrooms, soy sauce, sesame oil and Sichuan pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups mushroom broth and cook mixture gently for 2 minutes.
Carefully add tofu cubes. Shake pan to distribute sauce, using a wooden spoon to help. Try to avoid smashing tofu. Drizzle in cornstarch mixture, gently swirling pan to incorporate (sauce will thicken) and simmer tofu in sauce for 2 minutes more. Thin with a little mushroom broth if necessary.
Friday, June 7, 2019
Friday Recipes
It's finally Friday. Here are six yummy recipes (including two lasagna recipes) to help you through the weekend, including Al Roker's Vegetable Lasagna and Philadelphia-Cherry Danish Dessert. (Do I have your attention yet?) Enjoy!
POT LUCK PASTA SALAD (KID-FRIENDLY)
This was in a Weight Watchers' email several years ago. The program has changed, but I'm using the values from when this was sent.
This recipe begins, “This colorful salad has something for everyone. If you’re short on time, buy the ingredients already cut from a salad bar and use your favorite bottled fat-free Italian dressing.”
POINTS® Value: 3; Servings: 12; Preparation Time: 30 minutes; Cooking Time: 15 minutes; Level of Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
4 oz uncooked whole-wheat pasta, corkscrew shape (about 1 1/2 cups)
4 oz uncooked whole-wheat pasta, wheel shaped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 medium garlic cloves, minced
2 1/2 oz olives, canned, sliced, black (about 10 medium black olives)
1 medium green peppers, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 medium sweet red peppers, chopped (about 1 cup)
3/4 cup grape tomatoes, or other small tomatoes, halved (about 10 tomatoes)
1 medium yellow summer squash, halved lengthwise and sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Rinse pasta with cold water; drain again and set aside.
Meanwhile, prepare salad dressing by mixing together oil, lemon juice, oregano, mustard, salt, black pepper and garlic in a small bowl; set aside until ready to use.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with vegetables; pour in dressing and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover and chill about 2 hours. Yields about 1 cup per serving.
WHOLE-GRAIN BANANA PANCAKES WITH BLACKBERRY SYRUP
This was in a Weight Watchers' email several years ago. The program has changed, but I'm using the values from when this was sent.
This recipe begins, “Give your favorite pancake mix a health boost like we did here. Roasted nut oils deliver unsaturated fats, while flax seeds and wheat germ up the fiber, vitamin E, folic acid and Omega-3 fatty acid contents. The result is ultra-tasty and ultra-filling.”
POINTS® Value: 8; Servings: 4; Preparation Time: 15 min; Cooking Time: 15 min; Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Ingredients
1 sprays cooking spray
2 cup unsweetened frozen blackberries, or fresh blackberries
2 Tbsp powdered sugar
1 cup Aunt Jemima Original Pancake Mix, or other brand
1/4 cup flax seeds
1/4 cup wheat germ, toasted-variety
1 cup fat-free skim milk
3 large egg whites
1 Tbsp walnut oil, roasted-variety
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 medium bananas, thinly sliced
Directions
Coat a griddle or large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and preheat over medium heat.
In a small saucepan, combine blackberries and powdered sugar; set pan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Cook until sauce thickens and reduces, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine pancake mix, flax seeds and wheat germ; mix with a fork to combine. Add milk, egg whites, oil and vanilla extract; whisk until large lumps disappear (ignore any small lumps).
For each pancake, pour a scant 1/4-cup of batter onto hot griddle or skillet. Cook until bubbles appear around edges and then top each pancake with banana slices; flip pancake. Cook until golden on both sides, about 1 minute more.
Remove cooked pancakes to a serving plate and cover with foil to keep warm (or keep warm in a 250ºF oven). Repeat with remaining batter to make 12 pancakes. Serve pancakes with blackberry syrup spooned over top. Yields 3 pancakes and about 3 tablespoons of syrup per serving.
ROASTED CAULIFLOWER LASAGNA
This comes from The Food Network, and starts off, “Cauliflower is the star in this healthy lasagna, appearing in two roles-once when it's blended into the ricotta cheese filling for texture, and a second time when it's roasted and used in place of the traditional meatballs or sausage. Sweet red bell pepper adds complexity to the tomato sauce and balances the richness of the cheeses.” Total Time: 1 hr. 40 min; Prep: 20 min; Cook: 1 hr 20 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/roasted-cauliflower-lasagna.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
8 cups cauliflower florets (from 1 head cauliflower; about 2 1/2 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for coating the lasagna noodles
Kosher salt
One 28-ounce can no-salt added whole plum tomatoes
5 cloves garlic, 4 sliced and 1 chopped
1 large red bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup fresh basil leaves
8 ounces whole-wheat lasagna noodles (about 10 noodles)
1 cup part-skim ricotta
1 large egg
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Toss the cauliflower in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Spread the florets in an even layer on a baking sheet and roast, tossing once, until tender and golden brown in spots, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool slightly.
Put the tomatoes in a medium bowl and use your hands to crush them. Rinse the can with 1 1/2 cups water and add it to the bowl of tomatoes.
Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil with 4 cloves sliced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a small Dutch oven over medium heat until the garlic begins to sizzle and becomes aromatic, about 2 minutes. Add the bell pepper and cook, stirring, until soft, about 8 minutes. Add the tomato paste and stir to incorporate, about 30 seconds. Add the crushed tomatoes with their juice and 4 large leaves of basil. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened, about 40 minutes. You should have about 3 3/4 cups of sauce.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Drop the lasagna noodles one at a time into the pot. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles in a colander. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons oil to the noodles, tossing to coat to prevent them from sticking, and drape over the side of a large bowl.
Combine the ricotta, egg, 1 1/2 cups of the roasted cauliflower and 1 chopped clove garlic in a food processor and pulse until evenly pureed. Tear the remaining basil into small pieces, add to the food processor and pulse 3 to 4 more times to chop the basil finely, but not puree. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl.
Assemble the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of sauce (around 1/4 cup) on the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Lay 4 of the noodles on the bottom, without overlapping, cutting to fit, if necessary. Spread with half of the cauliflower-ricotta mixture, followed by half of the roasted cauliflower, one-third of the tomato sauce, one-third of the mozzarella and one-third of the Parmesan. Loosely fit 3 more noodles on top of the cheese without overlapping. Spread with the remaining cauliflower-ricotta mixture, followed by the remaining roasted cauliflower, one-third more of the tomato sauce, one-third more of the mozzarella and one-third more of the Parmesan. Top with the remaining 4 lasagna noodles, cutting just to fit. Then add the remaining tomato sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake until bubbly and hot, about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and cook until the cheese begins to brown, about 10 minutes more. Allow to rest for 10 minutes so the lasagna will cut more easily. Garnish with the parsley.
AL ROKER’S VEGETABLE LASAGNA
This is from The Today Show’s Al Roker. The recipe begins, “This vegetarian lasagna, which is bubbling with gooey cheese, is a delicious way to sneak lots of vegetable servings into dinner.”
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Yield: 1 lasagna
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 zucchini, medium dice
1 small yellow squash, medium dice
1 medium yellow onion, medium dice
1 medium red bell pepper, medium dice
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups marinara sauce
3 tablespoons chopped basil
1 pinch red pepper flakes
Lasagna
32 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
2 eggs
1 pound dry lasagna noodles, cooked according to packaging
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella
Preparation
For the sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium high heat. Add zucchini, squash, onion and red peppers. Season with salt and sauté vegetables until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook an additional minute. Pour in marinara sauce and chopped basil. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
For the lasagna:
While sauce is cooking, mix together ricotta cheese and egg until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, assemble the lasagna: Spoon vegetable sauce on bottom, cover with noodles in a single layer, spread a layer of the ricotta mixture and sprinkle some Parmesan. Repeat until the lasagna is fully built, finishing by covering the top with the shredded mozzarella.
Cover lasagna with aluminum foil. Bake in a 400°F oven, covered, for 40 minutes, then remove foil and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese turns golden brown.
Once cooked, let lasagna sit for 8-10 minutes before cutting and serving.
MIXED GARDEN CASSEROLE
Prep Time: 15 Minutes; Cost: $; Servings: 10; Difficulty Level: 2
Source: Cinnamon Hearts
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/mixed-garden-casserole.
Ingredients
1/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 cup uncooked regular rice
1 small eggplant, peeled & sliced
1 large onion, sliced
3 medium zucchini, sliced
3 med-size yellow squash, sliced
1 large green pepper, seeded & sliced
2 large tomatoes, peeled, sliced
2 tbsp butter or margarine
Directions
Combine brown sugar, salt and pepper; set aside.
Place rice in bottom of a lightly spray-coated or non-stick 13x9x2-inch baking dish. Layer eggplant, onion, yellow squash, zucchini, green pepper and tomato in baking dish. Sprinkle brown sugar mixture over each layer. Dot with butter or margarine.
Cover tightly and bake at 350F for 1-1/2 hours or until rice and vegetables are tender.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 543 mg; Cholesterol: 6 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 bread/starch; 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat
PHILADELPHIA-CHERRY DANISH DESSERT
This is from Kraft, and begins, “Skip the line at the bakeshop and make your own cherry Danish dessert! These PHILADELPHIA-Cherry Danish Dessert squares take just 15 minutes of prep.” Very yummy!
Prep Time: 14 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour; Makes: 24 Servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 cans (8 oz. each) refrigerated crescent dinner rolls, divided
2 pkg. (8 oz. each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
1-1/2 cups powdered sugar, divided
1 egg white
1 tsp. vanilla
1 can (20 oz.) cherry pie filling
3 Tbsp. milk
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Unroll 1 can crescent dough into 2 rectangles; press onto bottom of 13x9-inch pan sprayed with cooking spray, firmly pressing perforations and seams together to seal.
Beat cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar, egg white and vanilla with mixer until blended; spread onto crust. Cover with pie filling.
Unroll remaining can of crescent dough into 2 rectangles; pat into 13x9-inch rectangle, firmly pressing perforations and seams together seal. Place over pie filling.
Bake 25 to 30 min. or until golden brown; cool slightly.
Mix milk and remaining sugar until blended; drizzle over dessert.
POT LUCK PASTA SALAD (KID-FRIENDLY)
This was in a Weight Watchers' email several years ago. The program has changed, but I'm using the values from when this was sent.
This recipe begins, “This colorful salad has something for everyone. If you’re short on time, buy the ingredients already cut from a salad bar and use your favorite bottled fat-free Italian dressing.”
POINTS® Value: 3; Servings: 12; Preparation Time: 30 minutes; Cooking Time: 15 minutes; Level of Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
4 oz uncooked whole-wheat pasta, corkscrew shape (about 1 1/2 cups)
4 oz uncooked whole-wheat pasta, wheel shaped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 medium garlic cloves, minced
2 1/2 oz olives, canned, sliced, black (about 10 medium black olives)
1 medium green peppers, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 medium sweet red peppers, chopped (about 1 cup)
3/4 cup grape tomatoes, or other small tomatoes, halved (about 10 tomatoes)
1 medium yellow summer squash, halved lengthwise and sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced (about 1/2 cup)
1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Rinse pasta with cold water; drain again and set aside.
Meanwhile, prepare salad dressing by mixing together oil, lemon juice, oregano, mustard, salt, black pepper and garlic in a small bowl; set aside until ready to use.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with vegetables; pour in dressing and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover and chill about 2 hours. Yields about 1 cup per serving.
WHOLE-GRAIN BANANA PANCAKES WITH BLACKBERRY SYRUP
This was in a Weight Watchers' email several years ago. The program has changed, but I'm using the values from when this was sent.
This recipe begins, “Give your favorite pancake mix a health boost like we did here. Roasted nut oils deliver unsaturated fats, while flax seeds and wheat germ up the fiber, vitamin E, folic acid and Omega-3 fatty acid contents. The result is ultra-tasty and ultra-filling.”
POINTS® Value: 8; Servings: 4; Preparation Time: 15 min; Cooking Time: 15 min; Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Ingredients
1 sprays cooking spray
2 cup unsweetened frozen blackberries, or fresh blackberries
2 Tbsp powdered sugar
1 cup Aunt Jemima Original Pancake Mix, or other brand
1/4 cup flax seeds
1/4 cup wheat germ, toasted-variety
1 cup fat-free skim milk
3 large egg whites
1 Tbsp walnut oil, roasted-variety
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 medium bananas, thinly sliced
Directions
Coat a griddle or large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and preheat over medium heat.
In a small saucepan, combine blackberries and powdered sugar; set pan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Cook until sauce thickens and reduces, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine pancake mix, flax seeds and wheat germ; mix with a fork to combine. Add milk, egg whites, oil and vanilla extract; whisk until large lumps disappear (ignore any small lumps).
For each pancake, pour a scant 1/4-cup of batter onto hot griddle or skillet. Cook until bubbles appear around edges and then top each pancake with banana slices; flip pancake. Cook until golden on both sides, about 1 minute more.
Remove cooked pancakes to a serving plate and cover with foil to keep warm (or keep warm in a 250ºF oven). Repeat with remaining batter to make 12 pancakes. Serve pancakes with blackberry syrup spooned over top. Yields 3 pancakes and about 3 tablespoons of syrup per serving.
ROASTED CAULIFLOWER LASAGNA
This comes from The Food Network, and starts off, “Cauliflower is the star in this healthy lasagna, appearing in two roles-once when it's blended into the ricotta cheese filling for texture, and a second time when it's roasted and used in place of the traditional meatballs or sausage. Sweet red bell pepper adds complexity to the tomato sauce and balances the richness of the cheeses.” Total Time: 1 hr. 40 min; Prep: 20 min; Cook: 1 hr 20 min; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate
Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/roasted-cauliflower-lasagna.html?oc=linkback
Ingredients
8 cups cauliflower florets (from 1 head cauliflower; about 2 1/2 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for coating the lasagna noodles
Kosher salt
One 28-ounce can no-salt added whole plum tomatoes
5 cloves garlic, 4 sliced and 1 chopped
1 large red bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup fresh basil leaves
8 ounces whole-wheat lasagna noodles (about 10 noodles)
1 cup part-skim ricotta
1 large egg
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Toss the cauliflower in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Spread the florets in an even layer on a baking sheet and roast, tossing once, until tender and golden brown in spots, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool slightly.
Put the tomatoes in a medium bowl and use your hands to crush them. Rinse the can with 1 1/2 cups water and add it to the bowl of tomatoes.
Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil with 4 cloves sliced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a small Dutch oven over medium heat until the garlic begins to sizzle and becomes aromatic, about 2 minutes. Add the bell pepper and cook, stirring, until soft, about 8 minutes. Add the tomato paste and stir to incorporate, about 30 seconds. Add the crushed tomatoes with their juice and 4 large leaves of basil. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened, about 40 minutes. You should have about 3 3/4 cups of sauce.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Drop the lasagna noodles one at a time into the pot. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles in a colander. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons oil to the noodles, tossing to coat to prevent them from sticking, and drape over the side of a large bowl.
Combine the ricotta, egg, 1 1/2 cups of the roasted cauliflower and 1 chopped clove garlic in a food processor and pulse until evenly pureed. Tear the remaining basil into small pieces, add to the food processor and pulse 3 to 4 more times to chop the basil finely, but not puree. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl.
Assemble the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of sauce (around 1/4 cup) on the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Lay 4 of the noodles on the bottom, without overlapping, cutting to fit, if necessary. Spread with half of the cauliflower-ricotta mixture, followed by half of the roasted cauliflower, one-third of the tomato sauce, one-third of the mozzarella and one-third of the Parmesan. Loosely fit 3 more noodles on top of the cheese without overlapping. Spread with the remaining cauliflower-ricotta mixture, followed by the remaining roasted cauliflower, one-third more of the tomato sauce, one-third more of the mozzarella and one-third more of the Parmesan. Top with the remaining 4 lasagna noodles, cutting just to fit. Then add the remaining tomato sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake until bubbly and hot, about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and cook until the cheese begins to brown, about 10 minutes more. Allow to rest for 10 minutes so the lasagna will cut more easily. Garnish with the parsley.
AL ROKER’S VEGETABLE LASAGNA
This is from The Today Show’s Al Roker. The recipe begins, “This vegetarian lasagna, which is bubbling with gooey cheese, is a delicious way to sneak lots of vegetable servings into dinner.”
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Yield: 1 lasagna
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 zucchini, medium dice
1 small yellow squash, medium dice
1 medium yellow onion, medium dice
1 medium red bell pepper, medium dice
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups marinara sauce
3 tablespoons chopped basil
1 pinch red pepper flakes
Lasagna
32 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
2 eggs
1 pound dry lasagna noodles, cooked according to packaging
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella
Preparation
For the sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium high heat. Add zucchini, squash, onion and red peppers. Season with salt and sauté vegetables until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook an additional minute. Pour in marinara sauce and chopped basil. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
For the lasagna:
While sauce is cooking, mix together ricotta cheese and egg until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, assemble the lasagna: Spoon vegetable sauce on bottom, cover with noodles in a single layer, spread a layer of the ricotta mixture and sprinkle some Parmesan. Repeat until the lasagna is fully built, finishing by covering the top with the shredded mozzarella.
Cover lasagna with aluminum foil. Bake in a 400°F oven, covered, for 40 minutes, then remove foil and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese turns golden brown.
Once cooked, let lasagna sit for 8-10 minutes before cutting and serving.
MIXED GARDEN CASSEROLE
Prep Time: 15 Minutes; Cost: $; Servings: 10; Difficulty Level: 2
Source: Cinnamon Hearts
View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/mixed-garden-casserole.
Ingredients
1/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 cup uncooked regular rice
1 small eggplant, peeled & sliced
1 large onion, sliced
3 medium zucchini, sliced
3 med-size yellow squash, sliced
1 large green pepper, seeded & sliced
2 large tomatoes, peeled, sliced
2 tbsp butter or margarine
Directions
Combine brown sugar, salt and pepper; set aside.
Place rice in bottom of a lightly spray-coated or non-stick 13x9x2-inch baking dish. Layer eggplant, onion, yellow squash, zucchini, green pepper and tomato in baking dish. Sprinkle brown sugar mixture over each layer. Dot with butter or margarine.
Cover tightly and bake at 350F for 1-1/2 hours or until rice and vegetables are tender.
Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 543 mg; Cholesterol: 6 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 bread/starch; 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat
PHILADELPHIA-CHERRY DANISH DESSERT
This is from Kraft, and begins, “Skip the line at the bakeshop and make your own cherry Danish dessert! These PHILADELPHIA-Cherry Danish Dessert squares take just 15 minutes of prep.” Very yummy!
Prep Time: 14 minutes; Cook Time: 45 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour; Makes: 24 Servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 cans (8 oz. each) refrigerated crescent dinner rolls, divided
2 pkg. (8 oz. each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
1-1/2 cups powdered sugar, divided
1 egg white
1 tsp. vanilla
1 can (20 oz.) cherry pie filling
3 Tbsp. milk
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Unroll 1 can crescent dough into 2 rectangles; press onto bottom of 13x9-inch pan sprayed with cooking spray, firmly pressing perforations and seams together to seal.
Beat cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar, egg white and vanilla with mixer until blended; spread onto crust. Cover with pie filling.
Unroll remaining can of crescent dough into 2 rectangles; pat into 13x9-inch rectangle, firmly pressing perforations and seams together seal. Place over pie filling.
Bake 25 to 30 min. or until golden brown; cool slightly.
Mix milk and remaining sugar until blended; drizzle over dessert.
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