Vegetarian Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

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Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Wednesday Recipes

Here are today's six vegetarian recipes to try, starting with Slow Cooker Triple Chocolate Brownies. There's also a recipe today for Peanut Butter-Banana Bread w/Chocolate Chips. Add asparagus and Farmers’ Market Chowder, along with a couple more recipes...hopefully I've got your attention. Enjoy!

SLOW COOKER TRIPLE CHOCOLATE BROWNIES

This decadent yumminess comes from Christin Mahrlig of Spicy Southern Kitchen. According to her short bio, “trying new foods and experimenting in the kitchen are my greatest passions.” Works for me!

I found this recipe in an email from The Today Show, in an article titled “Slow-Cooker Sweets! 5 Easy Dessert Recipes You Can Make in a Crock-Pot.” It's also posted on Christin's website, and can be found by going to http://spicysouthernkitchen.com/slow-cooker-triple-chocolate-brownies/.

Christin wrote, “Brownies are my very favorite indulgence. Brownies with three kinds of chocolate? Even better.

“Typically I make fudgy and gooey brownies but these Slow Cooker Triple Chocolate Brownies from Martha Stewart turned out more cake-like, a little drier, and quite chewy around the edges. Even still, they were delicious and I couldn’t get enough of them.

“Cocoa powder, bittersweet chocolate, and semi-sweet chocolate chips add plenty of chocolate flavor. Chopped pecans add some crunch.

“My kids didn’t care for the taste of the bittersweet chocolate, so I got to enjoy these slow cooker brownies all week long. And enjoy then I did!

“It’s necessary to line the Crock Pot with parchment paper so that the brownies do not burn. Cooking time can vary quite a bit based on how hot your crock pot cooks. If you know that your crock pot is a fast cooker, shorten the cooking time some. The middle will still look slightly undercooked when they are done, but it will firm up as it cools.”

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 4 hours; Total Times: 4 hours 10 minutes; Serves: 14.

Ingredients

Cooking spray

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1 cup sugar

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Lightly coat a 4 to 5-quart crock pot insert with cooking spray. Place a piece of parchment paper, that is large enough to extend halfway up the sides in the bottom of the crock pot. Lightly spray parchment paper with cooking spray.

In a small bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Place butter and chopped chocolate in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds. Stir. Microwave another 30 seconds. If not completely melted, continue microwaving until melted.

Add sugar to chocolate mixture and whisk to combine.

Whisk in eggs and vanilla.

Stir in flour mixture just until flour is moistened. Fold in pecans and chocolate chips.

Pour batter into crock pot, smoothing out the top with a rubber spatula.

Cover and cook on LOW 3 1/2 hours. Uncover and continue to cook on LOW for 30 minutes.

Remove insert from crockpot and place on a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Cooking time will vary. If your crock pot runs a little hot, shorten the cooking time. The middle will look underdone, but will firm up as the brownies cool.

FARMERS’ MARKET CHOWDER

This comes from page 61 of the September 2011 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “While corn and leeks are essential here, feel free to substitute potatoes, carrots, or other root vegetables for some or all of the sweet potatoes. You could also mix in yellow wax or purple beans with the green beans or use basil instead of cilantro.” Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

4 large (or 5 small) ears corn, kernels removed and cobs reserved

2 1/2 cups low-fat milk

2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed, plus 3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.), divided

2 Tbs. unsalted butter

3 Tbs. olive oil, divided

3 cups sliced leeks (5 medium)

1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

1/3 cup dry sherry

12 oz. peeled sweet potatoes, cut into medium dice

1/2 lb. green beans, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

2 Tbs. chopped fresh cilantro

Lime wedges, optional

Combine corn kernels, milk, and crushed garlic in saucepan. Run back of knife down cobs to release milk and pulp into saucepan, then add cobs to pan. Bring to a boil. Remove pan from heat, and let steep.

Heat butter and 1 Tbs. oil in Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add leeks, cover, and cook 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and paprika, and cook 30 seconds. Stir in sherry, and cook 30 seconds. Add 4 cups water, and remove pot from heat.

Heat 1 Tbs. oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Add sweet potatoes, and sauté 8 minutes, or until browned; transfer to Dutch oven. Add remaining 1 Tbs. oil to same skillet, add green beans, and sauté 3 minutes. Transfer beans to plate.

Bring mixture in Dutch oven to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 5 minutes. Add green beans, and cook 4 minutes more.

Strain milk mixture, and discard corncobs and garlic. Stir milk mixture and 1 Tbs. cilantro into chowder. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Sprinkle with remaining cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

nutritional information Per 1 2/3-cup serving: Calories: 280; Protein: 8 g; Total Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 37 g; Cholesterol: 15 mg; Sodium: 80 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 15 g; Gluten-Free

TOMATO-SUMMER SQUASH SKEWERS

This comes from page 47 of the July/August 2015 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “The simplest recipes are often the best, especially in summer when produce is at its peak. Here, all it takes is a little olive oil and Italian seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of tomatoes and squash.” Makes 8 skewers.

To view this online, click here.

20 multi-colored cherry tomatoes, divided

1/4 cup plus 1 tsp. olive oil, divided

2 tsp. Italian seasoning

16 1-inch-thick slices yellow summer squash

2 Tbs. finely grated Parmesan cheese

Purée 4 cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup oil, and Italian seasoning in blender or small food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Set aside.

Preheat grill to medium-high, and brush grates with remaining 1 tsp. oil.

Combine squash slices and remaining 16 cherry tomatoes with puréed mixture in shallow baking dish; stir to coat. Let stand at room temperature 20 to 30 minutes.

Thread 2 cherry tomatoes and 2 squash slices onto eight 10-inch bamboo skewers.

Grill skewers 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until squash is tender and tomatoes are bursting slightly. Sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve.

nutritional information Per Skewer: Calories: 82; Protein: 1 g; Total Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 3 g; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Sodium: 26 mg; Fiber: less than 1 g; Sugar: 1 g; Gluten-Free

PEANUT BUTTER-BANANA BREAD WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS

This comes from the March 2007 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “Peanut butter helps keep this rich, moist bread deliciously low in fat. For more banana flavor, use the darkest (black is good), ripest bananas you can find.” Serves 8.

To view this online, click here.

1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour

3/4 cup light brown sugar or raw sugar

1 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

2 medium bananas, mashed

1/3 cup unsweetened crunchy peanut butter

1/4 cup plain fat-free yogurt

1 large egg

2 Tbs. canola oil

3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat standard loaf pan with cooking spray. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in large bowl.

Whisk together mashed bananas, peanut butter, yogurt, egg and oil. Stir banana mixture into flour mixture until combined. Fold in chocolate chips. Scrape batter into prepared loaf pan.

Bake 40 to 50 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Cool on rack 15 minutes before unmolding. Cool completely, then slice and serve.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 342; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 14 g; Saturated Fat: 4.5 g; Carbohydrates: 52 g; Cholesterol: 26 mg; Sodium: 286 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 34 g

CHICKLESS POT PIE

This comes from country star Trisha Yearwood, who also has her own show on The Food Network (called Trisha's Southern Kitchen). The recipe starts off, “Trisha Yearwood's vegetarian take on chicken pot pie is just as decadent without the meat. Although the luscious vegetable filling with peas, carrots and potatoes could be a meal on its own, wrapping it in premade pie dough seals in flavor with a crispy crust.” Total Time: 1 hr 25 min; Prep: 25 min; Inactive: 10 min; Cook: 50 min; Yield: 8 servings; Level: easy

Read more online at: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/trisha-yearwood/chickless-pot-pie-recipe.html?oc=linkback

Ingredients

1 cup thinly sliced carrots

1 cup frozen green peas

1 cup small diced potatoes

1/2 cup thinly sliced celery

1/3 cup finely chopped onion

1/2 cup butter substitute, such as Earth Balance

1/3 cup unbleached, all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1/4 teaspoon celery seed

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1 3/4 cups vegetable broth

2/3 cup almond milk

Two 9-inch unbaked pie crusts, lard free

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a jelly-roll pan or baking sheet with foil to place the pie on before cooking; it will keep any filling from dripping into the oven and burning.

In a medium saucepan, combine the carrots, peas, potatoes and celery. Cover with water, bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat, drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the onions in the butter substitute until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, celery seed and garlic powder. Cook for 2 minutes to get the flour taste out. Slowly stir in the broth and then add the milk. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until thick, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the drained vegetables.

Roll out one of the unbaked crusts to a 13-inch diameter and place in a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Pour the mixture into the bottom crust. Roll out the second pie crust and place on top. Seal the edges and cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Bake until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly, 30 to 35 minutes. If the top of the pie becomes too dark, loosely cover with foil and continue cooking. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

LEMONY ROASTED ASPARAGUS

Yield: 4 servings

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/32.shtml

Source: The Other Diabetes: Living and Eating Well with Type 2 Diabetes

Note: Roasted asparagus spears don't look as pretty as steamed, but the flavor is worth it.

Ingredients

1 lemon

1 pound fresh asparagus, wood stems removed

2 teaspoons olive oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Wash and dry the outside of the lemon. Make 2 teaspoons of lemon zest by grating the yellow outside peel with the fine side of a cheese grater. Wrap the lemon in plastic wrap and refrigerate for another use.

Toss the asparagus spears in a shallow dish with the lemon zest and olive oil.

Spread the asparagus in a heavy baking sheet; roast for 15 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, stir the asparagus to ensure even roasting. The asparagus are done when they are browned and slightly shriveled.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 50, Protein: 3 g, Fat: 3 g, Carbohydrate: 5 g, Sodium: 5 mg, Potassium: 353 mg, Dietary Fiber: 1 g, Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Tuesday Recipes

Hope you had a great Memorial Day weekend. Here are today's six vegetarian recipes to get the work week started. Enjoy!

ANYTIME BLACK FORREST BLIZZARD

This was in the September 2012 issue of Runner’s World, page 50. Contributing chef Pam Anderson comes up with quite a few really yummy recipes. This recipe starts off, “Plain Greek yogurt has roughly twice the protein and half the sugar of plan traditional yogurt. Cherries contain antioxidants that help reduce postrun inflammation. ‘To add crunch, stir in Famous Chocolate Wafers,’ says Anderson.”

I doubt that Pam is reading this, but if she is, all I can say is: Keep it up, please!

1 heaping cup frozen, dark sweet cherries

1 frozen banana, cut into chunks

1 C chocolate soymilk

1/4 C Greek yogurt

2 tsp honey or agave syrup

1/4 tsp almond extract

4 Famous Chocolate Wafers, crumbled

Place all the ingredients – except the Famous Chocolate Wafers – in a blender; process until creamy smooth. Divide between two glasses. Top each with a portion of crumbled Famous Chocolate Wafers. Serves two.

Calories per serving: 273; Carbs: 54 g; Fiber: 4 g; Protein: 7 g; Fat: 4 g

CHERRY SMOOTHIE

This comes from Yishane Lee in the July 2012 issue of Runner’s World, page 48. I couldn’t find a link for it…

1 cup pitted cherries

3/4 cup plain yogurt

2 tablespoons honey

3/4 cup ice

Place ingredients in blender and blend. Yum!

FENNEL AND TOMATO SOUP

This comes from page 28 of the January/February 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “Fennel and tomato pair nicely for an Italian-style tomato soup. Save fennel fronds to use as a garnish.” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

Note: The recipe originally calls for 2 Tbs. dry vermouth, dry white wine, or water. Since I don’t keep alcohol around the house - except for rubbing alcohol - I left the vermouth and/or white wine out of the recipe.

3 Tbs. olive oil

1 large fennel bulb, diced (4 cups)

3 vegan Italian sausages, sliced into 1/2-inch-thick rounds (2 cups)

1 tsp. fennel seeds

2 Tbs. water

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano

3 Tbs. chopped fresh Italian parsley

Heat oil in soup pot over medium heat. Add fennel, and sauté 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in sausages and fennel seeds, and cook 5 to 7 minutes, or until fennel seeds are slightly softened and bits of sausage are stuck to bottom of pan. Add vermouth, and cook 5 to 10 seconds to deglaze pan, scraping up any brown bits. Add broth, tomatoes, and parsley; cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

nutritional information Per 1 2/3-cup serving: Calories: 163; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 380 mg; Fiber: 5 g; Sugar: 2 g; Vegan

UPDATED POTATO SALAD

This comes from page 61 of the July/August 2011 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “Plain yogurt and grainy mustard make a light, tangy sauce for potato salad. Serve slightly warm or chilled.” Serves 8 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

2 lb. fingerling potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces

1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt

1/4 cup whole-grain mustard

2 tsp. olive oil

1 small red bell pepper, diced (1 cup)

3 celery stalks, diced (1 cup)

1/2 small red onion, sliced (1/2 cup)

Place potatoes in large saucepan, and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and cook 5 to 6 minutes, or until potatoes are tender, but not soft.

Meanwhile, whisk together yogurt, mustard, and olive oil in large bowl. Stir in red bell pepper, celery, and onion.

Drain potatoes, rinse under cold water, and drain again. Add potatoes to yogurt mixture, stirring to coat. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 134; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 2 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g; Cholesterol: less than 1 mg; Sodium: 182 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 3 g; Gluten-Free

ZUCCHINI PARMESAN

This comes from Martha Rose Schulman in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. Martha wrote, “This is a simple layered casserole with three elements: roasted zucchini, a really good homemade tomato sauce and Parmesan. Roasting, rather than frying the zucchini, allows you to cut down on olive oil and time.” Time: About 1-1/2 hours; Makes 6 servings.

To view this online, go to http://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1017523-zucchini-parmesan

Ingredients

For the Tomato Sauce:

2 to 2-1/2 pounds fresh ripe tomatoes

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

2 to 4 garlic cloves (to taste)

Salt and pepper

1/8 teaspoon sugar

2 sprigs fresh basil

1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

For the Zucchini Parmesan:

2 to 2-1/4 pounds zucchini

Salt and pepper

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (pepperoncini), to taste

3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Preparation

If you have a food mill, quarter tomatoes. If not, peel, seed and chop them. (See step 5.)

To make tomato sauce, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium heat and add onion. Cook, stirring often, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30 seconds to a minute, and add tomatoes, salt, pepper, sugar and basil sprigs. Increase heat to medium-high. When tomatoes are bubbling briskly, stir and reduce heat to medium. Cook, stirring often, until tomatoes have cooked down and are beginning to stick to pan, 15 to 25 minutes, depending on consistency. Remove basil sprigs; taste and adjust seasoning.

Heat oven to 450 degrees. Line 2 sheet pans with parchment. Trim ends off zucchini and cut in half crosswise, then into lengthwise slices, about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick. Season on both sides with salt and pepper and toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Arrange zucchini slices on baking sheets in one layer and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Roast for 12 minutes, until lightly browned and easily pierced with a knife. Remove from oven and reduce heat to 375 degrees.

If using a food mill, put sauce through medium blade. If not, pulse sauce in a food processor fitted with steel blade until just coarsely puréed. Stir in chopped basil.

To assemble the dish, oil a 2-quart gratin with olive oil. Spread 1/4 cup tomato sauce over bottom of dish. Arrange a third of the zucchini in an even layer over tomato sauce. Spoon a third of remaining sauce over zucchini and sprinkle with 1/4 cup Parmesan. Repeat with 2 more layers, ending with 1/4 cup Parmesan. Drizzle on remaining tablespoon olive oil. Bake 30 to 35 minutes, until bubbling and browned on the top and edges. Remove from heat and allow to sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

SPRING PEA AND ASPARAGUS PASTA PRIMAVERA

This comes from John Mitzewich, one of About.com’s American Food experts. John wrote, “‘Primavera’ means spring, and this easy pasta dish features two great spring vegetables - asparagus and peas. You can tweak this recipe by adding almost any vegetables you like.” The recipe originally called for either vegetable or chicken stock; I've kept the chicken stock out of this. Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Yield: 4 Servings

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

8 oz dry pasta (tagliatelle, fettuccini, or linguini are recommended)

2 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup vegetable stock

1 cup heavy cream

1 bunch asparagus, cut in 2-inch slices

1 cup shelled green peas (may substitute frozen, thawed)

1 lemon, zested and juiced

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Preparation

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to directions. While the pasta is cooking prepare the sauce as follows.

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat, and add the garlic. Cook for 1 minute, being very careful not to brown. Add the stock, cream, lemon zest and turn heat up to high. When it begins to boil, add the vegetables and cook until the asparagus is tender-crisp, about 3 minutes.

Turn off heat.Drain the pasta (do not rinse), and add back to the pot. Pour in the sauce and mix to coat the pasta. Add the lemon juice, basil, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Toss again and serve immediately.

Monday, May 30, 2016

Memorial Day

It's Memorial Day here in the U.S. If you – or anyone in your family – is/was in the Armed Services – Thank You!

This also means a three-day holiday weekend. I've got six recipes to help you celebrate the day. Be safe, and Enjoy!

CHOCOLATE TOFU ICE CREAM

This comes from the August 2000 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “You’’d never guess that this rich, dense, fudgy ice cream contains considerably less fat than the classic version.” Makes 5 cups.

To view this online, click here.

1 lb. soft tofu, drained

1 cup sugar

1 cup plain soy milk

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 Tbs. vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

In blender, puree all ingredients in 2 equal batches until very smooth.

Pour mixture into ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve right away or transfer to airtight container and freeze up to 3 days.

nutritional information Per 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 126; Protein: 3 g; Total Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 25 g; Sodium: 25 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Vegan

ROCKY ROAD CAKE

Another recipe from my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.

I was taking a speech class at a local junior college. One week we had to give a demonstration speech; one lady demonstrated how to make this cake, passing out copies of the recipe along with pieces of cake. It’s absolutely delicious. The icing can be used on almost any kind of cake; it would be really good on carrot cake!

And for a certain son who's having a birthday tomorrow, this would be a great birthday cake!

1 C chopped nuts

4 eggs

1 C raisins

1 C mayonnaise

1 C mini-marshmallows

1 C water

6 oz. package of chocolate chips

1 package (18.25 oz) Devil’s Food cake mix w/pudding

Grease & flour 2 9-inch pans. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix first four ingredients in medium-size bowl. In large bowl at low speed, mix cake mix, eggs, may & water until blended. Increase speed to medium & beat for 2 minutes. Stir in nut mixture. Pour into greased & floured pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. Cool in pan 15 minutes on cooling rack.

Icing (for Rocky Road Cake)

1 tsp. vanilla

1 stick butter

8 oz. cream cheese

1 box confectioners sugar

Place ingredients in bowl & cream together. When cake is cool, ice. ENJOY!

BLACK BEAN-QUINOA BURGERS

This recipe comes from page 60 of the Jul/August 2011 of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “Here's a delicious veggie burger you can whip up from scratch. Any steak seasoning (which is just a combination of herbs and spices) will work to give the patties a rich, hearty flavor. Stash a few in the freezer for busy weeknight meals. For super-easy cookouts, bake the patties ahead, then reheat them on the grill. Serve with your favorite burger fixings.” Serves 8.

To view this online, click here.

1/2 cup quinoa

1 small onion, finely chopped (1 cup)

6 oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped (1/4 cup)

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

2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)

2 tsp. dried steak seasoning

8 whole-grain hamburger buns

Stir together quinoa and 1 1/2 cups water in small saucepan, and season with salt, if desired. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 20 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed. (You should have 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa.)

Meanwhile, place onion and sun-dried tomatoes in medium nonstick skillet, and cook over medium heat. (The oil left on the tomatoes should be enough to sauté the onion.) Cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until onion has softened. Stir in 3/4 cup black beans, garlic, steak seasoning, and 1 1/2 cups water. Simmer 9 to 11 minutes, or until most of liquid has evaporated.

Transfer bean-onion mixture to food processor, add 3/4 cup cooked quinoa, and process until smooth. Transfer to bowl, and stir in remaining 3/4 cup quinoa and remaining 3/4 cup black beans. Season with salt and pepper, if desired, and cool.

Preheat oven to 350°F, and generously coat baking sheet with cooking spray. Shape bean mixture into 8 patties (1/2 cup each), and place on prepared baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes, or until patties are crisp on top. Flip patties with spatula, and bake 10 minutes more, or until both sides are crisp and brown. Serve on buns.

nutritional information Per Burger: Calories: 215; Protein: 9 g; Total Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 40 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 438 mg; Fiber: 6 g; Sugar: 5 g; vegan

BOSTON BAKED BEANS

Yield: 16 servings

Source: "Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking" by Maggie Powers

Book info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/12.shtml

Ingredients

1 pound dried navy beans

1 large onion, chopped

2 teaspoons salt

1 tomato, chopped

1/3 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar

3 tablespoons molasses

2 tablespoons cider vinegar

1 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon dry mustard

1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

Directions

Place the beans in a strainer and sort through the beans to remove stones, discolored beans, or any other objects. Rinse with cold water until beans are clean, about 2 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine the beans, onion, salt, and enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Let stand 8 hours or overnight at room temperature; do not refrigerate.

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.

In a strainer, drain and rinse the beans and onion. Place in a 4-quart saucepan and add the tomato, sugar, molasses, vinegar, ketchup, ginger, mustard, and pepper; stir until blended. Add enough water to cover the beans, about 2 cups. Cover and bake until bubbly and the beans are soft, 5 hours.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/2 cup): Calories: 110, Fat: 0 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Sodium: 50 mg, Carbohydrate: 21 g, Dietary Fiber: 4 g, Sugars: 4 g, Protein: 6 g, Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch

TWO-TONE POTATO SALAD WITH WALNUT-TARRAGON VINAIGRETTE

This comes from the September 2012 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 44. It starts out, “When half of the vinaigrette for this meal-size salad is poured over the hot potatoes, it soaks into the spuds and flavors them before the final layer of dressing is added.” Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

Walnut-Tarragon Vinaigrette

2 Tbs. cider vinegar

1 Tbs. Dijon mustard

4 Tbs. olive oil

2 Tbs. walnut oil

1 tsp. dried tarragon

1/2 tsp. salt, optional

1/4 cup finely chopped shallot or red onion

Two-Tone Potato Salad

3 medium boiling potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice

1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice

2 cups arugula

1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup finely diced celery

1/2 cup toasted walnut pieces

To make Walnut-Tarragon Vinaigrette: Whisk together vinegar and mustard in small bowl. Whisk in olive oil and walnut oil. Whisk in tarragon and salt (if using). Stir in shallot. Set aside to allow flavors to develop.

To make Two-Tone Potato Salad: Place boiling potatoes in pot with enough salted water to cover by 1 inch, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and cook 5 to 6 minutes, or until just tender. Drain, and transfer to large bowl.

Place sweet potato in separate pot with enough salted water to cover by 1 inch, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and cook 4 to 5 minutes, or until just tender. Drain, and transfer to bowl with boiling potatoes.

Toss both types of hot potatoes with half of Walnut-Tarragon Vinaigrette in large bowl. Cool salad completely. Stir in arugula, tomatoes, celery, walnuts, and remaining vinaigrette just before serving.

nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 293; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 19 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 28 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 191 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 5 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

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.

Friday, May 27, 2016

Friday Recipes

Ahhhh...the beginning of a three-day weekend! For anyone wanting a little info on Memorial Day, check out The History Channel's article on Memorial Day.

And now, here are six vegetarian recipes to help you through the weekend. Enjoy!

Note: I will be posting here on Monday; keep an eye out for vegetarian recipes to help celebrate the holiday.

MOROCCAN LENTIL STEW WITH RAISINS

This comes from the October 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “This exotically flavored stew can be stretched to feed a crowd when ladled over rice or potatoes.” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 cup chopped onion

3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)

1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes

2 18.2-oz. cartons prepared lentil soup

1 15-oz. can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1/2 cup raisins or dried currants

2 tsp. ground cinnamon, or more to taste

1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes, or to taste

6 Tbs. plain nonfat Greek yogurt or soy yogurt, optional

Heat oil in medium saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 3 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add garlic, and cook 1 minute, or until garlic is softened, but not browned, stirring constantly.

Stir in tomatoes, soup, chickpeas, raisins, cinnamon, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Bring stew to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer, uncovered, 20 minutes, or until mixture is reduced and sauce has thickened, stirring often from bottom to prevent sticking. Garnish each serving with 1 Tbs. yogurt, if using.

nutritional information Per 1-cup serving: Calories: 263; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 4 g; Saturated Fat: less than 1 g; Carbohydrates: 49 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 642 mg; Fiber: 13 g; Sugar: 11 g; Gluten-Free

RED QUINOA ZUCCHINI BURGERS

This is from the July/August 2014 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “Pre-cooking these patties lets you throw them on the grill without worrying they’ll stick or fall apart. Serve with gluten-free buns and your favorite burger fixings.” Makes 8 patties in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

1 medium sweet potato, diced (1 1/2 cups)

1 cup uncooked red quinoa

1 cup cooked chickpeas

1 small zucchini, grated (1 cup)

1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

5 1/2 Tbs. ground flaxseeds

3 1/2 tsp. finely chopped fresh basil

1 tsp. sea salt

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. finely chopped fresh thyme

2 Tbs. olive oil

Bring broth, sweet potato, and quinoa to a boil in saucepan over medium heat. Cover, reduce heat to medium low, and simmer 20 minutes, or until quinoa is tender. Transfer to bowl to cool.

Stir chickpeas, zucchini, pumpkin seeds, ground flaxseeds, basil, salt, pepper, chili powder, and thyme into quinoa mixture, mashing chickpeas and sweet potato but leaving some chunks. Shape mixture into 8 patties.

Preheat oven to 400°F, or preheat grill to medium-high.

Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from heat, and either place on baking sheet, and bake 15 minutes, or cook on grill 8 to 10 minutes, turning once.

nutritional information Per Patty: Calories: 242; Protein: 9 g; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 29 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 346 mg; Fiber: 8 g; Sugar: 5 g; Vegan; Gluten-Free

VERY BERRY SHORTCAKES

This yumminess is from page 60 of the July/August 2011 issue of Vegetarian Times and begins, “The fine crumb and tender texture of these shortcakes will make them a year-round favorite. Try with sautéed apples in fall and winter, a rhubarb compote in spring. To make the dessert vegan, simply substitute vegan whipped topping for the whipped cream.” Serves 8 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

Shortcakes

3 cups flour

1/3 cup sugar

1 1/2 Tbs. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

6 Tbs. canola or almond oil

3/4 cup almond milk, plus more for brushing tops of shortcakes

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/8 tsp. almond extract

1/4 cup turbinado sugar, optional

Topping

4 cups fresh raspberries, blueberries, and/or strawberries (1 lb.)

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

2 Tbs. lemon juice

4 drops vanilla extract

Pinch salt

2 cups light whipped cream

To make Shortcakes: Preheat oven to 425°F, and coat baking sheet with cooking spray. Stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in large bowl. Stir in oil until mixture resembles coarse meal.

In separate bowl, whisk together almond milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir almond milk mixture into flour mixture until soft dough forms.

Turn out dough onto floured work surface, and roll to 1-inch thickness. Cut out 8 Shortcakes with 21/2-inch round cutter. Transfer to prepared baking sheet, brush Shortcake tops with almond milk, and sprinkle with turbinado sugar, if using. Bake 12 to 15 minutes, or until Shortcakes are golden brown. Cool 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, to prepare Topping: Combine berries, confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt in bowl. Let stand 10 minutes.

To serve: Split Shortcakes in half, and place bottoms on serving plate. Top with 1/4 cup berry mixture and 2 Tbs. whipped cream. Place tops of Shortcakes slightly askew on top, and add remaining 1/4 cup berry mixture and remaining 2 Tbs. whipped cream.

nutritional information Per Shortcake: Calories: 391; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 13 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 64 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 636 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 23 g

SLOW COOKER TRIPLE CHOCOLATE BROWNIES

This decadent yumminess comes from Christin Mahrlig of Spicy Southern Kitchen. According to her short bio, “trying new foods and experimenting in the kitchen are my greatest passions.” Works for me!

I found this recipe in an email from The Today Show, in an article titled “Slow-Cooker Sweets! 5 Easy Dessert Recipes You Can Make in a Crock-Pot.” It's also posted on Christin's website, and can be found by going to http://spicysouthernkitchen.com/slow-cooker-triple-chocolate-brownies/.

Christin wrote, “Brownies are my very favorite indulgence. Brownies with three kinds of chocolate? Even better.

“Typically I make fudgy and gooey brownies but these Slow Cooker Triple Chocolate Brownies from Martha Stewart turned out more cake-like, a little drier, and quite chewy around the edges. Even still, they were delicious and I couldn’t get enough of them.

“Cocoa powder, bittersweet chocolate, and semi-sweet chocolate chips add plenty of chocolate flavor. Chopped pecans add some crunch.

“My kids didn’t care for the taste of the bittersweet chocolate, so I got to enjoy these slow cooker brownies all week long. And enjoy then I did!

“It’s necessary to line the Crock Pot with parchment paper so that the brownies do not burn. Cooking time can vary quite a bit based on how hot your crock pot cooks. If you know that your crock pot is a fast cooker, shorten the cooking time some. The middle will still look slightly undercooked when they are done, but it will firm up as it cools.”

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 4 hours; Total Times: 4 hours 10 minutes; Serves: 14.

Ingredients

Cooking spray

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1 cup sugar

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Lightly coat a 4 to 5-quart crock pot insert with cooking spray. Place a piece of parchment paper, that is large enough to extend halfway up the sides in the bottom of the crock pot. Lightly spray parchment paper with cooking spray.

In a small bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Place butter and chopped chocolate in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds. Stir. Microwave another 30 seconds. If not completely melted, continue microwaving until melted.

Add sugar to chocolate mixture and whisk to combine.

Whisk in eggs and vanilla.

Stir in flour mixture just until flour is moistened. Fold in pecans and chocolate chips.

Pour batter into crock pot, smoothing out the top with a rubber spatula.

Cover and cook on LOW 3 1/2 hours. Uncover and continue to cook on LOW for 30 minutes.

Remove insert from crockpot and place on a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Cooking time will vary. If your crock pot runs a little hot, shorten the cooking time. The middle will look underdone, but will firm up as the brownies cool.

GRILLED VEGETABLE PANZANELLA

From the July/August 2013 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 27. The recipe starts off, “Grilled summer vegetables require little seasoning to taste spectacular in this hearty bread salad.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view online, click here.

4 slices rustic French bread (8 oz.)

1 12-oz. pkg. cherry tomatoes

16 large green beans (4 oz.)

1 large yellow squash, quartered lengthwise

2 Tbs. olive oil

2 Tbs. white balsamic vinegar

1 large clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)

1 small head radicchio, diced

1 oz. chilled blue cheese, crumbled or coarsely grated (1/3 cup)

4 hard-boiled eggs, roughly chopped

Coat grill pan or basket with cooking spray, and preheat over medium heat.

Grill bread slices 3 to 4 minutes per side until crisp and lightly charred. Slice into cubes, and transfer to large bowl.

Coat tomatoes, green beans, and squash lightly with cooking spray, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Arrange in separate groups on prepared grill pan or in grill basket. Grill 8 minutes, or until squash and beans are charred and just tender, and tomatoes are splitting open, turning vegetables occasionally.

Transfer all but 4 tomatoes to medium bowl. Press tomatoes in bowl slightly to release juices. Spoon tomatoes, and then their juices, over toast cubes.

Whisk together oil, vinegar, and garlic in large serving bowl. Add remaining 4 tomatoes, mash coarsely, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cut green beans and squash crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces. Add cut vegetables, radicchio, and blue cheese to bowl with dressing. Toss to coat. Add bread cube mixture, and toss to coat. Sprinkle chopped eggs over top.

nutritional information Per 2-cup serving: Calories: 361; Protein: 15 g; Total Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 39 g; Cholesterol: 192 mg; Sodium: 533 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 8 g

TOMATO COBBLER WITH CORNMEAL-CHEDDAR BISCUITS

If you've been following this blog for a while, you probably realize that The Kitchn is one of my favorite places to receive emails from. That, and its brother site, Apartment Therapy send out really cool emails, which I highly recommend signing up for. (And no, no one offered any compensation for plugging either site. I just think that they're majorly cool.)

That said, Faith Durand of The Kitchn wrote of this recipe, “I'm declaring this cobbler the Recipe of Summer. It take those pints of cherry tomatoes that you can't help bringing home from the farmers market and transforms them into silky, oh-so-tender bites. Plus, you know, cheddar biscuits. Trust me: it's worth turning on the oven for this one.” She also adds, “Make sure your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned for this recipe. Tomatoes are acidic, and they can dissolve the seasoning somewhat. This isn't a big deal with a well-seasoned skillet — just rub it with a little oil after cleaning — but it can set you back a few seasonings with a new skillet. New skillets can also sometimes give acidic foods an unpleasant metallic flavor.

“If you'd prefer not to use cast iron for this, you can also cook the cobbler in a 12-inch stainless steel skillet with high sides or in a 13x9-inch baking dish.

“On its own, this cobbler makes a very satisfying vegetarian main dish. One biscuit each, plus a generous scoop of warm tomatoes, and dig in! It's filling, but not actually too heavy — it still feels like a good summer dinner. It would also go nicely with some grilled chicken on the side.” Serves 6 to 8.

To view it online from her site, click here.

4 pints cherry tomatoes (3 1/2 to 4 pounds)

1/2 tablespoon olive oil

2 red onions, peeled and thinly sliced

1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup red wine (or 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the biscuits:

1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 cup cornmeal

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter

1 cup + 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided

3/4 to 1 cup buttermilk, plus extra to brush.

Heat the oven to 375°F with a rack placed in the middle of the oven.

Pick the stems off of the cherry tomatoes and rinse them under running water. Larger tomatoes can be sliced in half, but I generally just leave the tomatoes whole.

Warm the olive oil in a 12-inch cast-iron or high-sided stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. When warm, add the onions and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the onions are very soft and tender, at least 10 minutes, or if you have the patience, lower the heat and continue cooking for another 20 or 30 minutes to caramelize the onions.

Stir the garlic into the onions and cook until fragrant, 30 to 60 seconds. Pour in the wine (or balsamic) and cook until the wine has mostly evaporated. Stir in the flour and cook until the flour is paste-like. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of salt, carefully stirring and folding until the onions are evenly mixed with the tomatoes.

To prepare the biscuits, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse a few times to combine. Cut the cold butter into chunks and scatter it over the flour. Pulse a few times until the butter has been cut into pea-sized pieces.

Transfer the flour-and-butter mixture to a bowl and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar (reserve the other 1/2 cup for sprinkling over the top). Form a well in the middle and pour in 3/4 cup of buttermilk for firmer biscuits, or 1 cup of buttermilk for looser biscuits. Use a spatula to gently stir the buttermilk into the flour; continue stirring until all the buttermilk has been incorporated and no more dry flour remains. (Alternatively, you can make the biscuits entirely in a bowl and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut in the butter.)

Drop the dough over the tomatoes, making 7 to 8 biscuits. Brush the biscuits with a little buttermilk. Place the skillet on a baking sheet to catch drips, and then transfer to the oven.

Cook for 55 to 60 minutes, until the tomatoes are very bubbly and the tops of the biscuits are nicely browned. About 10 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle the tops of the biscuits with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar.

Remove from the oven and let the cobbler rest for at least 15 minutes before eating. Leftovers will keep for about a week.

Recipe Notes

This recipe can also be cooked in a 13x9-inch baking dish or other 3 quart baking dish. Prepare the tomato mixture in a skillet on the stovetop, then transfer to the baking dish, top with the biscuits, and bake until bubbly.

Thursday, May 26, 2016

Thursday Recipes

Here are today's six vegetarian recipes to try your hand at. Enjoy!

The first four recipes come from the January 2007 issue of Vegetarian Times, in an article titled “5 Ingredients: Frozen Assets: Hot ideas for winter dishes - straight from your freezer.” The article begins, “If the pitiful-looking winter produce selection has you singing the “what can I make for dinner” blues, it’s time to steer your grocery cart over to the freezer aisle. There you’ll find everything you need to make wholesome dishes without spending a fortune. And when you stock up on these frozen goodies—vegetables, soy meatballs, sweet berries and a pint or two of ice cream—the fast, delectable recipes here mean you don’t have to go out in the cold to get a hot meal on the table.”

Now, I know, someone is bound to think, “Winter? Excuse me, but it’s May! That hardly qualifies as winter.” That’s okay, these are still yummy recipes. So, give ‘em a try!

HEAVENLY ICE CREAM CAKE WITH RASPBERRY COULIS

This recipe begins, “Prepared angel food cakes from the supermarket bakery section are good items to have on hand for desserts. Before preparing this elaborate-looking recipe, freeze the cake completely. It slices easily with a serrated knife.” Serves 12.

You can also view this online, here.

1 16-oz. angel food cake, frozen

1 10-oz. jar raspberry preserves

1/4 cup raspberry liqueur or orange juice

2 pints low-fat vanilla ice cream, softened, divided

1 10-oz. pkg. frozen raspberries in syrup, thawed

Cut cake into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Cover bottom of 9-inch springform pan with slices, cutting one or two slices as necessary to fill in gaps.

Combine raspberry preserves and liqueur in small saucepan over medium heat, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, and simmer 5 minutes. Brush half of raspberry mixture over cake in pan. Spread 1 pint ice cream over cake, and smooth top. Arrange more cake slices over ice cream to cover completely. Spread remaining raspberry mixture over cake. Smooth remaining pint of ice cream over cake. Cover with plastic wrap, and freeze overnight. (Can be prepared up to 3 days in advance up to this point.)

Purée thawed raspberries and syrup in food processor until smooth. Strain into bowl.

Run knife around sides of springform pan. Release sides from cake. Slice into wedges, and top with raspberry coulis.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 273; Protein: 4 g; Total Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 60 g; Cholesterol: 3 mg; Sodium: 319 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 31 g

PENNE WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND PESTO

This recipe begins, “Cubed butternut squash is a recent addition to most frozen food sections—and a welcome one since it eliminates all the peeling, scraping and slicing that go with fresh squash. (Fresh butternut squash will also work, though.)” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

This can also be viewed this online here.

1/4 cup prepared pesto, divided

1 cup chopped frozen onions

1 1/4 lb. frozen diced butternut squash, about 4 cups

2/3 cup low-sodium vegetable broth

3/4 lb. whole-wheat penne

Heat 1 Tbs. pesto in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 6 minutes, or until softened. Stir in squash and broth. Cover, and cook over medium low 10 minutes, or until squash is tender, stirring occasionally.

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, and divide among 4 bowls. Swirl remaining 1 Tbs. pesto into sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Spoon sauce over pasta, and use remaining pesto to garnish each serving.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 489; Protein: 16 g; Total Fat: 9 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 87 g; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Sodium: 332 mg; Fiber: 10 g; Sugar: 7 g

GREEN COCONUT CURRY

This one begins, “Prepared Thai curry paste is available in the Asian section of most supermarkets. If you can’t find green, feel free to use red or yellow. Since the paste is quite spicy, taste a little before you add it and use more or less as preferred. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts and cilantro if desired.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less. Vegan.

1 cup reduced-fat coconut milk

1 tsp. green curry paste

1 1/2 lb. frozen mixed Asian vegetables (mixes with peas are good here)

2 Tbs. teriyaki sauce

4 cups cooked brown rice

Combine coconut milk and curry paste in wok or large saucepan over medium heat, and bring to a boil. Stir in frozen vegetables. Simmer over medium heat 10 minutes. Stir in teriyaki sauce, and serve over rice.

PER SERVING: 376 CAL; 10G PROT; 7.5G TOTAL FAT (3G SAT. FAT); 66G CARB; 0MG CHOL; 889MG SOD; 6G FIBER; 8G SUGARS

“MEATBALLS” STROGANOFF

The recipe begins, “For a hot, filling dinner, this take on a traditional Hungarian dish can’t be beat. Frozen spinach lightens it up and makes for a well-balanced meal. Serve over long, wide pasta to soak up the sauce.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

2 tsp. garlic-flavored olive oil

2 cups frozen chopped onion

1 16-oz. bag frozen whole-leaf spinach

1 12-oz. pkg. frozen soy zesty Italian meatballs

1 cup reduced-fat sour cream

Heat oil in nonstick skillet on medium high. Add onion, and sauté 10 minutes, or until golden. Add 1/3 cup water, spinach and soy meatballs. Cover, and cook over medium heat 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in sour cream just before serving, and cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until heated through, but without boiling. Season with salt and pepper, and serve over egg noodles, if desired.

PER SERVING: 269 CAL; 18G PROT; 14.5G TOTAL FAT (6G SAT. FAT); 20G CARB; 31MG CHOL; 622MG SOD; 7G FIBER; 5G SUGARS

POTATO CAVATELLI

This comes from Kim Severson in The New York Times Cooking e-newsletter. Kim wrote, “These are an easy, homey version of handmade pasta that freeze well. They are sturdier and more toothsome than gnocchi but have more character than dried cavatelli. It takes a little practice to get the flip of the indentation just right, but once you get the feel for it you can turn out enough for dinner quickly. They hold up well under a heavy tomato ragù, but also take well to a simple sauce of butter, a little pasta water and Parmesan or pecorino. This recipe is easy to double, too, which leaves plenty to freeze for another night. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet dusted in flour, then store in a zippered plastic bag.” Time: 45 minutes; makes 6 servings as a first course, 4 as a main course.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 large russet potatoes

1 tablespoon butter

1/4 cup milk

1/4 cup neutral oil, like canola

1 teaspoon kosher salt

4 eggs

3 cups flour/450 grams, plus more for rolling

Preparation

Boil potatoes unpeeled and send through a ricer to make 2 cups. Alternately, peel and boil, then mash. Mix in butter and milk. Let cool.

In a sturdy bowl, using a stand mixer with a dough hook, or a wooden spoon or your hands, mix potatoes, oil, salt and eggs until smooth. Work in 2 cups flour, gradually adding more until dough is stiff and not sticky. (The amount of flour needed can vary greatly.)

Pinch off a ball of dough, roll into a rope about an inch in diameter and cut into 3/4-inch dumplings. On a floured surface, press your thumb against the cut side of each dumpling and press down and away, so the dough flattens and flips up over your thumb. The result should look like a miniature hot dog bun.

In boiling salted water, cook cavatelli, stirring once or twice as soon as you put them in, for about 5 minutes or until they rise to the top. Alternately, put them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then store in the freezer in a plastic bag. Dumplings will take about 10 to 12 minutes to cook. Top with tomato sauce, pesto or butter and Parmesan.

KEY LIME PIE

This recipe, also from the February 2010 issue of Vegetarian Times, page 52, begins, “The secret to this pie is cream of coconut, most commonly used by bartenders to make piña coladas. Don't confuse it with coconut milk, which is unsweetened and thinner. Chill well before serving.” Serves 10.

To view this online, go to http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/key-lime-pie-2/.

Crust

1 1/2 cups crushed vegan graham crackers, plus more for garnish

1/4 cup nonhydrogenated vegan margarine, melted

1/4 cup agave nectar

Filling

1 cup cream of coconut, such as Coco Lopez

1 cup raw, unsalted cashews

7 oz. extra-firm tofu (half pkg.), drained

3/4 cup fresh lime juice

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/4 cup plus 1 Tbs. agave nectar

2 tsp. grated lime zest

Lime slices, for garnish

To make Crust:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Stir together crushed graham crackers, margarine, and agave nectar in bowl. Press mixture into bottom and sides of 9-inch pie dish using fingers or bottom of drinking glass. Place Crust in freezer while oven preheats.

Bake Crust 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden. Cool.

To make Filling:

Place cream of coconut, cashews, tofu, lime juice, cornstarch, agave nectar, and lime zest in blender or food processor; blend until very smooth (press mixture through strainer if blender cannot completely blend cashews).

Transfer Filling to saucepan, and heat over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, or until Filling thickens, stirring constantly.

Spread Filling in Crust. Chill at least 4 hours before serving. Serve garnished with lime slices and crushed graham crackers.

nutritional information Per Slice: Calories: 364; Protein: 6 g; Total Fat: 17 g; Saturated Fat: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 49 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 138 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Sugar: 35 g; Vegan

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Wednesday Recipes

Enjoy!

QUINOA MEDLEY WITH BEANS AND CORN

This recipe comes from the January 2007 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “Protein-rich quinoa cooks in the same amount of time as white rice and lends itself well to this speedy dish. Store-bought fresh salsa adds complex flavor in seconds.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

1 1/4 cups quinoa, rinsed

1 15-oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup frozen corn

1/2 cup chunky salsa, divided

1 tsp. chili powder

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

2 Tbs. olive oil

Lime wedges, for garnish

Bring 2 cups water to a boil in saucepan. Stir in quinoa, cover, and reduce heat to medium. Simmer 10 minutes.

Add beans, corn, 1/4 cup salsa and chili powder; season with salt and pepper. Return to a boil. Cover, and cook 2 to 5 minutes more, or until quinoa is tender.

Stir in cilantro, oil and remaining salsa. Divide among bowls, garnish with lime wedges, and serve.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 386; Protein: 13 g; Total Fat: 10 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 61 g; Sodium: 534 mg; Fiber: 9 g; Sugar: 6 g; Vegan

CURRIED PENNE

This also comes from the January 2007 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “This unusual ingredient combination surprised VT staffers with its rich, satisfying flavor. Buttermilk creates a tangy, creamy pasta sauce—with half the fat of an Alfredo sauce.” Serves 4 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

8 oz. whole-wheat penne pasta

3 Tbs. slivered almonds

1 Tbs. canola oil

1/2 onion, finely chopped (1/4 cup)

1/2 tsp. whole cumin seeds

1 small tomato, diced (about 1/2 cup)

1 1/2 tsp. mild curry powder

Pinch cayenne

1 cup frozen peas, rinsed under hot water

1 cup low-fat buttermilk

2 Tbs. chopped cilantro

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, heat large skillet over medium heat. Add almonds, and toast 2 to 3 minutes, or until lightly browned, stirring frequently. Transfer to small bowl.

Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, and cook 2 minutes, or until softened. Stir in cumin, and cook 1 minute more, or until fragrant.

Add tomato, curry powder and cayenne. Cook 1 minute, or until liquid has evaporated. Add peas, and cook 1 minute more. Remove from heat, and stir in buttermilk.

Drain pasta, and transfer to large serving bowl. Toss with buttermilk sauce, top with cilantro and almonds, and serve.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 348; Protein: 13 g; Total Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 56 g; Cholesterol: 4 mg; Sodium: 433 mg; Fiber: 9 g; Sugar: 8 g

VEGETABLE STIR-FRY

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/240.shtml

Source: The New American Heart Association Cookbook

Servings: 8

Ingredients

1 pound fresh broccoli

1 teaspoon acceptable margarine

1 teaspoon acceptable vegetable oil

1 pound carrots, peeled and thinly sliced

12 ounces fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced (3-1/2 to 4 cups)

2 to 3 medium green onions, thinly sliced (about 1/3 cup)

2 tablespoons dry sherry

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled

Pepper to taste

Directions

Separate broccoli florets so they are of small, uniform size. Peel tough stems; cut stems into 2-inch pieces.

In a large skillet or wok, heat margarine and oil over medium heat, swirling to coat bottom. Stir-fry broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, and green onions for 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp. Stir in remaining ingredients.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 65; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 57 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1 Fat

SWEET-TART CUCUMBER SALAD

This comes from Taste of Home, and comes from Dian Jorgensen of Santa Rosa, California. Dian wrote, “A dear friend showed me how to use up cucumbers in a tangy salad. The longer it chills, the deeper the flavor. Look for lemon or pickling cucumbers.” Total Time: Prep: 20 minutes + chilling; makes 8 servings.

You’ll have to register to view this online. Once you get to Taste of Home, register (it’s free), then type in the recipe title.

Ingredients

10 pickling cucumbers or 3 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon salt, divided

2 cups white vinegar

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup lemon juice

3 teaspoons celery seed

1 teaspoon pepper

2 medium onions, halved and thinly sliced

Directions

Place cucumbers in a colander over a plate; sprinkle with 1 tablespoon salt and toss. Let stand 30 minutes. Drain.

In a small bowl, whisk vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, celery seed, pepper and remaining salt until blended. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers and onions. Pour dressing over cucumber mixture; toss to coat. Refrigerate, covered, at least 2 hours before serving.

GNOCCHI WITH LEMON CHILI GARLIC SAUCE [VEGAN]

This comes from the One Green Planet e-newsletter. It begins, “This gnocchi is tasty and tasty to make. Light and fluffy gnocchi are coated in a tangy and garlicky lemon chili sauce that's light enough to enjoy in warmer weather. Chopped kale is added to the sauce, bringing some greens to the table, and adding color to your bowl.” Serves 4; Cook Time: 30 minutes; Dairy Free; Vegan

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi:

6 potatoes

3 cups plain flour, plus more as needed

1 teaspoon, plus 1 tablespoon salt



1 tablespoon olive oil

5 cloves garlic

1 large red chili

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1/2 cup lemon juice

1 cup chopped kale leaves

Preparation

To Make the Gnocchi:

Peel, chop, and boil the potatoes until soft, about 15-20 minutes.

Drain well and purée until smooth.

Mix in the flour and 1 teaspoon salt until a smooth dough forms. You may need to vary the amount of flour depending on how moist the potatoes are.

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/3-inch thick.

Slice into pieces, about 3/4×3/4-inch each.

Fill a large pan halfway with water, add 1 tablespoon salt, and bring it to a boil.

Add enough gnocchi to cover the bottom of the pan.

When the gnocchi rises and floats to the surface, about 2 minutes, it is ready. Scoop out with a slotted spoon and put into serving dishes.

Repeat until all the gnocchi is cooked.

To Make the Sauce:

Peel and finely dice the garlic.

De-seed and finely chop the chili.

Heat the oil over a low-medium heat in a frying pan.

Add the garlic and chili, cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic begins to brown.

Add the zest, juice, and kale, stir for another minute.

Remove from heat.

Combine the gnocchi with the sauce and serve immediately.

CHICKPEA "MEAT" SAUCE OVER PASTA SHELLS [VEGAN]

This is also from the One Green Planet e-newsletter, and begins, “This recipe is the next best thing next to simmered-all-day pasta sauce. You'll have all your family and friends guessing how you managed to juggle your day while making such a fabulous meaty sauce – hey, we won't tell them it was super easy if you don’t!” High carb; vegan.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 large onion, chopped

1 small carrot, peeled and minced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary

A dash of red pepper flakes

1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

1 tablespoon red miso paste

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 1/4 tablespoon pure maple syrup, or to taste

13 ounces gluten-free or whole wheat pasta shells

Vegan Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Chopped fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Heat a large skillet to medium-high, add a splash of water or vegetable broth, and sauté the chopped onion and carrot for about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté an additional minute.

While the carrots and onion cook, put the chickpeas in the bowl of a food processor and pulse to break them down. You don’t want hummus — but you also don’t want any whole chickpeas remaining. Set aside.

Stir the herbs and spices into the onion/carrot mixture and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the chickpeas and sauté for about 5 minutes, letting them brown a bit.

Add the crushed tomatoes, miso, tomato paste, and maple syrup, scraping up the yummy browned bits and stirring well to combine. Turn down the heat to low and let the sauce bubble for about 30 minutes. If you have one of those mesh screens, this is the time to use it.

Stir the sauce occasionally, adding broth or water if it becomes too thick. While it cooks, get the pasta water going and cook according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1/4-1/2 cup of the pasta water, if desired (you can use this to further thin the sauce, if necessary).

When the sauce is done, taste and adjust the seasonings. Pour the pasta into the sauce and stir well, making sure to coat each and every tender shell. Serve with copious amounts of vegan Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Tuesday Recipes

Here are today's six vegetarian recipes to try. Enjoy!

BREAKFAST EGG NESTS

This is from the January 2007 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “Classic omelet ingredients—eggs, cheese and herbs—get a stylish makeover when baked in a ‘nest’ of whole-wheat bread.” Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

6 slices whole-wheat bread, crusts removed

4 medium cremini mushrooms, chopped (about 3/4 cup)

1 green onion (white and green parts), thinly sliced (about 2 Tbs.)

1 Tbs. finely chopped fresh tarragon, plus extra leaves for garnish

6 large eggs

1/3 cup shredded Swiss cheese

1/2 tsp. smoked or regular paprika

Adjust oven rack to lowest position. Preheat oven to 325F. Coat 6 6-oz. ramekins with cooking spray, and place on sheet pan. Flatten each bread slice with rolling pin to 1/8-inch thickness. Line prepared ramekins with bread slices, pressing against bottom and sides, and overlapping where necessary (bread may extend over top).

Combine mushrooms, green onion and tarragon in small bowl. Season with salt and pepper, and divide among remekins. Break 1 egg carefully into each ramekin. Top with cheese and paprika; sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake 20 to 25 minutes, rotating pan after 10 minutes, or until whites are completely set and yolks begin to thicken but are still creamy. Bake slightly longer for hard-cooked yolks. Cool on rack 2 minutes, then unmold, and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with tarragon leaves, if desired.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 164; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Cholesterol: 218 mg; Sodium: 428 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Sugar: 2 g

SHIRRED EGGS WITH RICOTTA AND FRESH BASIL

This also comes from the January 2007 issue of Vegetarian Times, and begins, “If you can't find fresh basil for this recipe, substitute 3/4 cup prepared pesto.” Serves 6.

To view this online, click here.

1 cup tomato sauce

3/4 cup part-skim ricotta cheese

1/3 cup packed fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus sprigs for garnish

2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

6 large eggs

Set oven rack in lowest position, and preheat oven to 350F. Coat 6 6-oz. ramekins with cooking spray, and place on small baking sheet. Spoon 1 1/2 Tbs. tomato sauce into each ramekin. Bake 10 minutes, or until sauce is hot.

Combine ricotta, basil, Parmesan and pepper in colander to drain excess liquid. Divide cheese mixture into 6 2-inch round disks.

Remove ramekins from oven, and place one ricotta disk in each. Crack 1 egg into each ramekin. Bake 15 to 18 minutes, or until whites are just set and yolks thicken but are still creamy.

Heat remaining tomato sauce in microwave. Spoon 1 Tbs. over each egg. Season with pepper, and garnish with basil sprigs.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 137; Protein: 11 g; Total Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g; Cholesterol: 223 mg; Sodium: 348 mg; Fiber: 1 g; Sugar: 2 g

STRAWBERRY FOOL

This comes from Mark Bittman in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Mark wrote, “This Minimalist recipe is as basic as dessert gets, and especially in strawberry season it’s just perfect. It is essentially fresh strawberries and whipped cream (substitute heavy cream, sour cream or yogurt). It can be eaten right away or refrigerated. Only a fool would pass this up.” Yield: 4 servings; Time: 30 minutes.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 pint strawberries

1/2 cup sugar, or to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional

Preparation

Hull strawberries, then wash them and chop into 1/4-inch-thick pieces. Toss with half the sugar, and wait 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they give up their juices.

Place half the strawberries and all the juice in a blender, and puree. Pour puree back in bowl with chopped strawberries.

Whip the cream with remaining sugar and vanilla until cream is stiff and holds peaks easily. Fold berries and cream together, and serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to two hours.

FRUIT NUGGETS

Yield: 36 Nuggets (1 per serving)

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/650.shtml

Ingredients

2 cups finely ground low-fat graham crackers

1/2 cup finely ground gingersnaps or low-fat graham crackers

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 cup dried apples

1/2 cup dried apricots

1/2 cup pitted dates

1/2 cup golden raisins

1/2 cup orange juice

2-3 tablespoons honey

3 tablespoons sugar

Directions

Combine graham cracker and gingersnap crumbs and spices in medium bowl. Finely chop fruit in food processor, using pulse technique, or by hand; add to crumb mixture.

Add orange juice and honey to fruit mixture, stirring until mixture holds together. Roll into 36 balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Measure 1 tablespoon sugar into large plastic bag; add 1 dozen nuggets and shake to coat with sugar.

Repeat with remaining sugar and nuggets. Store in covered container at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 57; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 0.5 g; Sodium: 29 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Fruit, 1/2 Bread

QUINOA PILAF WITH RED AND YELLOW PEPPERS

Yield: 2-1/4 pounds; Serves: 12

Serving Size: 3 ounces

Source: The Professional Chef's Techniques of Healthy Cooking

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/611.shtml

Note: This recipe originally calls for using either chicken or vegetable stock. I've changed that to simply vegetable stock.

Ingredients

2-1/2 tablespoons minced shallots

2 tablespoons minced garlic

20 fluid ounces Vegetable stock

12 ounces quinoa, well-rinsed

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

1 bay leaf

1 sprig thyme

7 ounces roasted red and yellow peppers, diced

Directions

In a medium saucepan, sweat the shallots and garlic in 2 fluid ounces of the stock until the shallots are translucent.

Add the quinoa, remaining stock, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the liquid to a boil.

Cover the pot tightly and place in a 350 degree F. oven until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, about 15 minutes.

Remove and discard the bay leaf and thyme. Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains and release steam. Fold in the peppers and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 130; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Sugars: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 1 Vegetable

WHITE BEAN PATTIES

This comes from the January 2006 issue of Vegetarian Times. It begins, “Serve this easy entrée with a tossed salad and crusty, whole grain bread.” Serves 6 in 30 minutes or less.

To view this online, click here.

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

1 large egg

3 Tbs. all-purpose flour

2 Tbs. olive oil, or as needed

2 Tbs. lemon juice

3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)

1 cup frozen peas

1/2 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs

1/2 cup spaghetti sauce for garnish, optional

1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley, for garnish

Purée first 6 ingredients in food processor or blender until smooth, adding more oil if needed to process. Transfer to bowl.

Fold in peas and breadcrumbs. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Shape mixture into 6 patties, about 1/3 cup each.

Spray large skillet with cooking spray, and warm over medium heat. Cook patties 5 minutes, or until golden. Spray tops of patties, flip and cook 5 minutes more, or until golden.

Meanwhile, warm spaghetti sauce, if using, in small pan or microwave.

Serve patties with spaghetti sauce, if desired, and parsley.

nutritional information Per SERVING: Calories: 183; Protein: 7 g; Total Fat: 6.5 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Sodium: 367 mg; Fiber: 4 g; Sugar: 2 g