Vegetarian Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

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Tuesday, May 3, 2016

Tuesday Recipes

Here are today's six vegetarian recipes. Enjoy!

GARLICKY OVEN FRIES

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

To view this online, click here.

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

2 tsp. canola oil

2 tsp. olive oil

4 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped

1 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley

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

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

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

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

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

FRENCH TOAST WITH CITRUS-VANILLA SYRUP

This also comes from the May 2008 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, "French toast is usually soaked in a rich egg batter, pan-fried in butter, and made in batches. Here, egg whites and a homemade syrup lighten up the batter, and you bake the slices in one batch so everyone can enjoy a hot, healthful breakfast together." Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

Citrus Syrup

2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

2/3 cup agave nectar

1 Tbs. lemon juice

1 tsp. grated orange zest

1 tsp. grated lemon zest

1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise

French Toast

1 cup low-fat (1 percent) milk

2 large eggs

2 large egg whites

6 slices French bread, cut 1-inch thick

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

To make Citrus Syrup: Whisk together agave nectar, lemon juice, orange zest, and lemon zest in glass measuring cup. Scrape in seeds from vanilla bean; whisk to blend. Heat in microwave on high power 60 seconds or until hot. Cool 10 minutes.

To make French Toast: Whisk together milk, eggs, egg whites, and ¼ cup Citrus Syrup in large casserole dish. Soak bread slices in mixture until all of custard is absorbed, turning once.

Arrange bread slices on prepared baking sheet. Bake 25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Serve with remaining Citrus Syrup.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 300; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 59 g; Cholesterol: 73 mg; Sodium: 385 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Sugar: 32 g

BLUEBERRY COFFEE CAKE MUFFINS

This comes from Ina Garten star of the Food Network’s show Barefoot Contessa. Total Time: 37 min; Prep: 12 min; Cook: 25 min; Yield: 16 muffins; Level: Easy

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/blueberry-coffee-cake-muffins-recipe.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 extra-large eggs, at room temperature

1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

8 ounces (about 1 cup) sour cream

1/4 cup milk

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

2 half-pints fresh blueberries, picked through for stems

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Place 16 paper liners in muffin pans.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. With the mixer on low speed, add the eggs 1 at a time, then add the vanilla, sour cream, and milk. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. With the mixer on low speed add the flour mixture to the batter and beat until just mixed. Fold in the blueberries with a spatula and be sure the batter is completely mixed.

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin pans, filling each cup just over the top, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the muffins are lightly browned on top and a cake tester comes out clean.

RATATOUILLE

This comes from Allyson Kramer, About.com’s Vegan Food expert. Allyson wrote, “Ratatouille is a classic flavor-packed veggie filled dish that makes a lovely main course or a stunning side dish. The key to perfect ratatouille is having evenly sliced vegetables for amazing texture. Serve the finished dish alone or atop a bed of greens, mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.” Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cook Time: 60 minutes; Total Time: 90 minutes; Yield: 6 Servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 large tomatoes, green tops removed

1 garlic bulb/head, tip cut off to expose the cloves

1 Japanese eggplant or 2 to 3 baby eggplants

1 unpeeled yellow zucchini

1 unpeeled green zucchini

1 red bell pepper, seeds removed

1 very large carrot, orange is best, but any color will do

3 tablespoons tomato paste

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoon olive oil + additional for drizzling

2 tablespoons fresh thyme

1 tablespoon fresh oregano

Black pepper to taste

Salt to taste

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 400 °F. Place the tomatoes and garlic bulb onto a large piece of foil, about 12 x 12 inches. Drizzle the tomatoes and garlic bulb with 1 teaspoon olive oil and then fold the foil up and over into a loose pouch around the tomatoes and garlic. Place the foil pouch onto an ungreased baking sheet or cake pan. Roast the tomatoes and garlic bulb for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until the skins on tomatoes are quite wrinkly and dark in color, and the garlic is fragrant and tender.

Remove the foil pouch from the oven, open the pouch and allow to cool about 15 minutes, or until easy to handle. Once cooled, carefully remove the skins from the tomatoes and scoop out the cooked garlic from the bulb.

Decrease your oven's temperature to 375 °F. Slice the eggplant, zucchini, red pepper, and carrot into thin even slices, about 1/6 to 1/4 of an inch thick using either a very sharp knife or mandoline.

In a food processor or blender, blend the roasted tomatoes and garlic along with the tomato paste, sea salt and 2 tablespoons olive oil until smooth, stopping and scraping down the sides of the blending container as needed.

Spread about 3/4 of the sauce into the bottom of a lightly greased ceramic or metal oven safe dish, about 8 inches in diameter. Arrange the sliced vegetables into a spiral ring, alternating the colors to create a colorful pattern with the vegetables. Once all the vegetables have been placed securly and the dish is full, drizzle the with olive oil (about 1 1/2 tablespoons) and the remainder of the sauce.

Top with fresh thyme, oregano, black pepper and salt.

Cover with a layer of parchment paper and place onto the middle rack of your oven. Bake for 1 hour or until vegetables are tender and very fragrant. Remove the ratatouille from the oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

BAINGAN BHARTA

This is from Mark Bittman, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Time: about 45 minutes; makes 4 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 pounds eggplant

2 tablespoons lime juice

2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 medium onion, peeled and chopped

3 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped

1 fresh hot green chile like a jalapeño, or more to taste, thinly sliced (discard seeds for less heat)

1 pound fresh tomatoes, chopped

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste

1/2 cup chopped cilantro, thin stems included

2 teaspoons garam masala

Preparation

Prick the eggplant with a thin-blade knife. Grill over or next to very high heat, turning as necessary until the skin is blackened and the eggplant collapses. Or broil, or roast on a heated cast-iron pan in the hottest possible oven. It will take about 20 minutes.

When the eggplant is cool enough to handle, peel (this will be easy) and trim away the hard stem. Chop or mash in a bowl, with lime juice.

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; add the onion. Cook, stirring often, until the onion is golden brown, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic and chiles and cook for another minute. Add the tomato, turmeric and salt. Cook until the tomato is soft, 5 minutes or so.

Stir in the eggplant purée and cook, stirring, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the cilantro and garam masala and turn off the heat. Serve hot with warm chapati bread or pita, or over rice.

BROCCOLI RABE LASAGNA

This comes from David Tanis, also in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. David wrote, “Broccoli rabe (sometimes spelled raab, or known as rapini greens) is one of the most delicious members of the mustard green family. The leaves, tender stems and broccoli-like buds have a distinctive pleasant bitterness when cooked. For this vegetarian lasagna, some of the cooked greens are puréed to make a garlicky pesto and the rest is coarsely chopped and added to the layers.” Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; makes 6 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Béchamel Sauce:

4 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups half-and-half, heated, plus a little more if necessary

Salt and pepper

Pinch of cayenne

Grated nutmeg, to taste

For the Lasagna:

1 pound dry lasagna noodles

Salt and pepper

2 bunches broccoli rabe, about 2 pounds

4 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound ricotta cheese

1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest

4 tablespoons butter

4 ounces grated Parmesan, about 2 cups, or a combination of Parmesan and pecorino

Preparation

Make the béchamel: Melt butter in a small saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook for a minute over medium heat without browning. Gradually whisk in half-and-half, 1/2 cup at a time, to obtain a smooth, lightly thickened sauce. Turn heat to low. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, some ground black pepper, the cayenne and nutmeg. Cook, whisking, for 4 to 5 minutes, then place saucepan in a hot-water bath to keep sauce warm. Thin if necessary with a little more half-and-half.

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to the boil. Add lasagna noodles and cook for 5 minutes. Lift noodles from water with a spider and rinse well in a bowl of cold water. Drain and lay noodles flat on a kitchen towel.

Using the same cooking water, blanch the greens for 1 minute, until just wilted. Rinse greens with cool water, squeeze dry and chop them roughly. Put 1 cup of chopped greens, the minced garlic and ?1/2 cup olive oil in a food processor or blender and purée to make a pesto. Season with salt and pepper to taste and transfer to a small bowl.

Mix the ricotta and lemon zest in a small bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Organize to have all ingredients within easy reach for assembling lasagna. Use 2 tablespoons butter to grease an 8-by-10-inch baking dish.

Assemble the lasagna: Put a layer of cooked noodles on the bottom of the baking dish. Spoon a quarter of the béchamel over noodles, then dot with a third of the ricotta. Complete layer with chopped greens, a drizzle of pesto and some grated cheese. Continue layering, finishing with a layer of pasta. Spread the last of the béchamel on top and sprinkle with Parmesan. (There should be 4 layers of pasta and 3 layers of filling.)

Dot with remaining butter and bake, covered with foil, for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for 20 minutes more, until nicely browned and bubbling. Let lasagna rest 10 minutes before serving.

Monday, May 2, 2016

Monday Recipes

Enjoy!

ROASTED CORN QUESADILLAS

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

To view this online, click here.

3 cups Roasted Confetti Corn

2 8-oz. balls fresh mozzarella, grated

6 8-inch flour tortillas

6 Tbs. cilantro leaves, divided, optional

1 1/2 cups prepared peach salsa

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

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

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

TORTILLA LASAGNA

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

To view this online, click here.

6 8-inch fat-free flour tortillas

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 small onion, chopped (1 cup)

2 Tbs. chili powder

2 tsp. ancho chile powder

2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)

2 cups strained tomatoes, such as Pomì, divided

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

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

1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels

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

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

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

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

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

CHOCOLATE-HAZELNUT DROP COOKIES

This is from Giada De Laurentiis of The Food Network’s Giada At Home. Total Time: 1 hr 1 min; Prep: 15 min; Inactive: 35 min; Cook: 11 min; Yield:38 to 40 cookies

Read more at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/chocolate-hazelnut-drop-cookies-recipe.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, at room temperature

1/4 cup plus 1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 cups flour

1/2 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread, at room temperature (recommended: Nutella)

Directions

For the cookies: Place an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 3 baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners. Set aside.

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar on high speed until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Beat in the vanilla. With the machine running, gradually add the flour until incorporated. Beat in the chocolate-hazelnut spread. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop 12 balls of dough onto each baking sheet. Bake until the bottoms of the cookies flatten out slightly, 10 to 12 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, about 30 minutes.

Place 1 cup of powdered sugar in a medium bowl. In batches, roll the cookies in the sugar until coated. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

KEY LIME POUNDCAKE

This is from Kim Serverson in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Kim wrote, “Susan Levin Turner has taught many Southerners, both professional chefs and home cooks, how to bake a proper cake. She has made cakes for politicians and celebrities, and turned out five when the chef Edna Lewis turned 76. “Cakes bring people together for celebrations and funerals and everything in between,” she said. Ms. Turner, who owns Food Glorious Food in Tallahassee, Fla., developed this recipe to combine Key limes, a flavor associated with South Florida, with poundcake, a staple in the more rural, agricultural parts of North Florida. She bakes hers in an old-fashioned large square poundcake pan, but the recipe has been adapted here for a loaf pan, which is a little easier to find and work with. She likes to coat the inside of the greased cake pan with sugar, which helps the cake slide from the pan and offers a little more crispness to the crust. This recipe uses flour instead for tenderness, but the sugar method offers a homey Southern touch. Or use a combination of both.” Time: 1 hour 45 minutes; makes 8 to 10 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature, cut into pieces, plus more for greasing the pan

2 cups all-purpose flour, more for flouring the pan

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

4 ounces cream cheese at room temperature, cut into pieces

1 1/2 cups/297 grams granulated white sugar

4 eggs at room temperature, lightly beaten

2 tablespoons lime zest

1 tablespoon Key lime juice

For the Glaze:

4 ounces cream cheese at room temperature

1/4 cup unsalted butter at room temperature

2 cups confectioners' sugar

1/4 cup Key lime juice

2 tablespoons lime zest

Preparation

Make the cake: Heat oven to 325 degrees. Butter and flour a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan. Sift the flour and baking powder and set aside.

Mix butter and cream cheese in bowl of a stand mixer, or with a hand mixer on medium speed, until blended; gradually add sugar and beat on medium speed for 5 minutes until light in color and fluffy. Add the beaten eggs about a quarter at a time, fully incorporating before adding the next.

Add lime zest and mix to incorporate. Add dry ingredients alternately with lime juice, beginning and ending with flour mixture and adding juice in two additions. Mix just enough to incorporate.

Bake for about 1 hour, or until just set in the middle. Check cake after 30 minutes; if top is browning too quickly, tent with foil. If the cake is not set in the middle after an hour, continue baking, checking middle at 5-minute intervals, until set.

Cool in the pan for 20 minutes; loosen edges and turn out cake onto plate with raised edges to contain the glaze.

Meanwhile, make the glaze: In a glass bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until well blended and a little fluffy, about 2 minutes. With the mixer on slow speed, gradually add confectioners' sugar until fully incorporated, then beat for 20 to 30 seconds.

Mix in the lime juice, then heat the mixture in a microwave oven for a minute or more until it is very warm and loose. Using a wooden skewer, poke several holes in the cake. Pour half the glaze over cake, let sit for 10 minutes, pour remaining glaze over cake and sprinkle with lime zest.

Tip

Recipe can be doubled to make 2 loaves or to fill a 10-by-4-inch tube pan. But a doubled recipe will overflow a smaller Bundt pan, and will almost overflow the bowl of a stand mixer. To mix a double recipe, cream the butter, cream cheese and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer, add the eggs and lime zest and then transfer the batter to a larger bowl and use a hand mixer to combine the flour mixture and lime juice. The recipe for the glaze makes enough for 2 loaves or the round cake without being doubled.

ONE-SKILLET CHEESY ENCHILADA BAKE

This yummy recipes comes from The Baker Chick (otherwise known as Audra). If you haven’t signed up for her e-newsletter yet, I highly recommend doing so! Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Yield: 6 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 onion, diced

1 bell pepper, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 cup corn (I used frozen)

1 15 oz can of black beans, rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

3 cups enchilada sauce* (see Note)

10 corn tortillas, cut into quarters

3 cups shredded cheddar, or jack cheese

Instructions

Preheat over to 375F.

In a large skillet, sauté the onion in a little olive oil for 5 minutes over medium-high heat. Add the peppers and zucchini and continue to cook until soft and golden- another 5-10 minutes.

Add the beans, corn, and taco seasoning and stir to combine, cooking for another 5 minutes. Add salt & pepper to taste.

Transfer the bean mixture to a bowl. (No need to wipe out the skillet.)

Spread a layer of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the pan, and spread out 1/3 of the tortillas. Top with more sauce until tortillas are covered with a thin layer. Add half of the filling and half the cheese.

Repeat one more time, layering sauce, tortillas, more sauce, and more filling. Top with a final layer of tortillas and the remaining cheese.

Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes: *Audra wrote, “Enchilada Sauce from All Recipes. I doubled this recipe and it was perfect with a little extra. You could also use store bought.” I’ve added the recipe.

TEN MINUTE ENCHILADA SAUCE

This is the recipe from All Recipes. Time: 25 minutes; makes 6 servings.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1/4 cup vegetable oil

2 tablespoons self-rising flour

1/4 cup New Mexico or California chili powder

1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce

1 1/2 cups water

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion salt

salt to taste

Directions

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in flour and chili powder, reduce heat to medium, and cook until lightly brown, stirring constantly to prevent burning flour.

Gradually stir in tomato sauce, water, cumin, garlic powder, and onion salt into the flour and chili powder until smooth, and continue cooking over medium heat approximately 10 minutes, or until thickened slightly. Season to taste with salt.

Friday, April 29, 2016

Friday Recipes

Enjoy!

HONEY ENERGY BALLS

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

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

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

Ingredients

2 large eggs

3 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons canola oil

2 teaspoons grated orange zest

2 cups granola

2/3 cup roughly chopped walnuts

Instructions

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

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

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

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

CHOCOLATE CHIP TRAIL MIX BALLS

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

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

Ingredients

1/2 cup almond butter

1/3 cup agave syrup or honey

1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1/4 cup pumpkin seeds

1/4 cup dark chocolate mini chips

1/4 cup chopped dried tart cherries

1/4 cup sliced almonds

1/2 cup toasted wheat germ

Instructions

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

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

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

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

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

ASPARAGUS-PESTO LASAGNA

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

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

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

3 1/2 cups low-fat milk, divided

6 Tbs. pesto*, or more to taste

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

1 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

2 tsp. olive oil

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

1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 tsp.)

16 no-cook lasagna noodles (9 oz.)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HERBED TOFU LASAGNA WITH ZUCCHINI

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

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

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

1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

1/3 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley

1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted

2 cloves garlic, peeled

2 Tbs. lemon juice

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

1/4 tsp. sugar

1 Tbs. olive oil

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

5 cups marinara sauce

16 no-cook lasagna noodles (9 oz.)

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

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

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

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

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

PASTA ALLA NORMA - CLASSIC SICILIAN EGGPLANT-PASTA

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

Ingredients

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

Coarse sea salt (Maldon salt works well)

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 teaspoon red chile pepper flakes

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

Fine sea salt, to taste

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

8-12 fresh basil leaves, for garnish

3 ounces ricotta salata, coarsely grated

Preparation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Serve immediately.

DEEP-DISH SKILLET PIZZA

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

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

Dough

1 tsp. light brown sugar

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

3/4 cup whole-wheat pastry flour

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 Tbs. flax meal or ground flaxseed

2 tsp. olive oil

3/4 tsp. salt

Topping

2 Tbs. olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)

8 cups loosely packed kale

1 cup sliced mushrooms

1 tsp. ground fennel seed

2 Tbs. Neufchâtel cheese (2 oz.)

1 cup crumbled feta cheese (4 oz.)

12 cherry tomatoes, halved

2 Tbs. chopped fresh oregano or basil

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

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

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

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

Thursday, April 28, 2016

Thursday Recipes

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

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

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

The first four recipes can be found online here.

EDAMAME RICE BOWLS

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

1/2 cup brown rice

1 8-oz. bag frozen shelled edamame

1/4 cup dried cranberries

2 oz. crumbed feta

10 pitted kalamata olives, halved


3 Tbs. chopped cilantro

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 Tbs. lime juice

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

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

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

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

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

BROCCOLI-POTATO STRATAS

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

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

2 Tbs. skim milk

Pinch ground nutmeg

1 1/2 cups frozen broccoli florets

1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2/3 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

3 tsp. grated Parmesan cheese, divided

3 Tbs. crushed potato chips, divided

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

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

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

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

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

PITA PANZANELLA

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

Panzanella

1 Tbs. olive oil

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

2 cups frozen artichoke hearts

3/4 cup frozen fava beans or lima beans

1 1/2 cups frozen peas

Lemon-Mint Dressing

2 Tbs. olive oil

2 Tbs. chopped fresh mint

1 Tbs. lemon juice

2 tsp. grated lemon zest

1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)

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

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

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

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

QUICK PIEROGI BAKE

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

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

1 tsp. unsalted butter

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 cup sliced mushrooms

8 refrigerated or frozen cheese pierogi

3 Tbs. shredded low-fat Monterey Jack cheese

2 slices soy bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 Tbs. fat-free sour cream, optional

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

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

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

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

PUMPKIN PUDDING

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

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

2 cups vanilla soymilk

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 cup instant tapioca pearls

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, or to taste

Pinch of salt

1 15-oz. can pumpkin purée

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

1 cup toasted pecan halves, as garnish, optional

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

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

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

To serve, garnish with toasted pecans, if using.

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

TRIPLE DARK CHOCOLATE TART

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

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

Cocoa Nib Crust

1 1/2 cups flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/8 tsp. salt

6 Tbs. butter, softened

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

2 tsp. cocoa nibs, optional

Fudge Filling

12 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1 12-oz. can reduced-fat evaporated milk

1 Tbs. butter

1 tsp. vanilla extract

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

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

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

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

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Wednesday Recipes

Enjoy!

FAST FRENCH APPLE TART

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

To view this online, click here.

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

7 medium tart apples, peeled and cored

2 Tbs. lemon juice

1/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup apricot jam

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

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

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

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

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

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND CHICKPEA STEW WITH COUSCOUS

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

To view this online, click here.

2 Tbs. olive oil

1 medium carrot, diced (3/4 cup)

1 small onion, diced (1 cup)

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

1 Tbs. whole cumin seeds

1 bay leaf, crumbled

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

1 32-oz. container butternut squash soup, divided

1 1/2 cups couscous

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

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

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

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

“BAKED” GRANOLA APPLES

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

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

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

Ingredients

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

2 tablespoons chopped dried tart cherries

1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

4 teaspoons butter

1/2 cup granola

Instructions

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

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

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

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

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

GOOD MORNING SWEET POTATO

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

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

Ingredients

1 medium sweet potato

1/4 cup chopped walnuts

1 tablespoon maple syrup

Pinch of salt

Instructions

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

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

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

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

MOROCCAN SEVEN-VEGETABLE COUSCOUS

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

To view this online, click here.

2 Tbs. unsalted butter

2 Tbs. olive oil

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

2 pinches saffron threads

1 pinch crushed red pepper

1/2 tsp. ground turmeric

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. ground ginger

1 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper

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

4 fresh or canned tomatoes, peeled, seeded and quartered

1 qt. vegetable stock

3 cups water

1 turnip, peeled and cut in 1-inch cubes

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

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

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

1 cup raisins

1 14-oz. can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

2 Tbs. granulated sugar

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 cups quick-cooking couscous, uncooked

1/2 cup blanched slivered almonds, toasted

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

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

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

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

FUNNEL CAKES

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

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

Ingredients

8 cups vegetable oil for frying

1 1/2 cups milk

2 eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup confectioners' sugar

Directions

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

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

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

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Tuesday Recipes

Enjoy!

PARMESAN-CAULIFLOWER FRITTERS

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

To view this online, click here.

1/2 cup quinoa

1/2 tsp. salt

8 oz. cauliflower florets

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 large eggs

2 Tbs. chopped Italian parsley

2 Tbs. breadcrumbs

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

Prepared tomato-and-basil sauce, warmed

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

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

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

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

CRUNCH CROQUE PROVENCAL

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

To view this online, click here.

2 Tbs. coarse-grain mustard

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

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

4 thin slices red onion, rings separated

8 fresh basil leaves

8 thin slices tomato

1/2 cup low-fat milk

2 large egg whites

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

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

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

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

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

VEGAN ROASTED BANANA ICE CREAM

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

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups raw, unsalted cashews

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

6 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons extra-virgin coconut oil

2 tablespoons dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon kosher salt

3/4 cup granulated sugar

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

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons coconut milk

1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted (optional)

Preparation

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

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

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

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

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

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

HERBED CARROT SOUP



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



2 pounds of carrots, chopped

1 large onion, diced

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

2 cloves garlic, crushed

4 Tbs of butter

6 C of vegetable stock

Freshly grated mace or nutmeg

Salt & pepper to taste

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

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

VEGAN THAI CURRY VEGETABLES

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

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

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

1/2 cup vegetable stock

4 teaspoons soy sauce

4 teaspoons palm sugar or brown sugar

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

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

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

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

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

2/3 cup sliced bamboo shoots, rinsed and drained

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

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

1 lime

8 large basil leaves, cut into thin chiffonade

Preparation

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

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

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

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

CHIPOTLE ASPARAGUS QUESADILLAS

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

To view this online, click here.

Quesadillas

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

1 red bell pepper, sliced (1 cup)

1 medium onion, sliced (1 cup)

1 1/2 tsp. olive oil or vegetable oil

1 tsp. dried oregano

4 8-inch sprouted-grain tortillas

Chipotle Spread

3 Tbs. vegan mayonnaise

2 tsp. minced, drained chipotles in adobo sauce

1 Tbs. lime or lemon juice

Preheat oven to 425°F.

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

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

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

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

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

Monday, April 25, 2016

Meatless Monday Recipes

Here are today's six vegetarian recipes. Enjoy!

GARLICKY OVEN FRIES

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

To view this online, click here.

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

2 tsp. canola oil

2 tsp. olive oil

4 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped

1 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley

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

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

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

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

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

MINTY WINTER TABBOULEH

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

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

3/4 cup bulgur

2 cups tightly packed fresh peppermint leaves

2 cups tightly packed fresh parsley leaves

1 small red onion, peeled and quartered

1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)

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

1/3 cup chopped toasted hazelnuts

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

1/4 cup lemon juice

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

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

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

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

BUTTER-BRAISED ASPARAGUS

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

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds large or medium asparagus

6 tablespoons butter

Salt and pepper

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon snipped chives

1 tablespoon roughly chopped parsley or chervil

1 teaspoon chopped tarragon, plus more for garnish

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

Preparation

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

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

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

RHUBARB STRAWBERRY COBBLER

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

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1-1/3 cups sugar

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

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

2 cups halved fresh strawberries

2 tablespoons butter, cubed

Crust:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

2/3 cup canola oil

1/3 cup warm water

1 tablespoon 2% milk

1 tablespoon sugar

Vanilla ice cream, optional

Directions

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

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

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

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

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

SPAGHETTI SAUCE

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

28 oz. can tomatoes (see note)

2 8 oz. cans tomato sauce

2 6 oz. cans tomato paste

3 onions, chopped

3 to 5 cloves garlic, crushed

2 T oil

1 T oregano

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

1 tsp. basil

1 tsp. thyme

1 tsp. dill

1 tsp. anise

2 T honey

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

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

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

MINESTRONE SOUP

Yield: 4 servings (about 1 cup each)

Source: "Cooking with The Diabetic Chef"

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

Ingredients

1/2 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 medium onion, finely diced

1/4 medium carrot, finely diced

1/4 stalk celery, finely diced

2/3 teaspoon garlic, minced

2 tablespoons leeks, finely diced

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

1/2 medium zucchini, diced

1/4 teaspoon fresh thyme

3/4 teaspoon fresh oregano, minced

3 cups chicken stock

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

3/4 cup white beans, cooked

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon white pepper

1 teaspoon Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

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

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

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

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