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Category: Appetizers & Snacks

Shrimp, Scallop and Pork Shumai

Shrimp, Scallop and Pork Shumai

 

Filling:

1/2 pound medium shrimp, shelled and deveined

1/2 pound bay scallops

1/2 pound ground pork

2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger

2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro leaves

2 tablespoons minced shallots

2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 egg white, whipped

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 teaspoons cornstarch

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 (10-ounce) package round wonton wrappers (about 40 to 50 wrappers per package)

1 cup frozen peas

 

Canola oil, for brushing the steamer

Savoy cabbage, for lining the steamer, optional

Minced green onions, for garnish

Serving suggestion: soy sauce or dipping sauces of your choice

 

To make the filling: Combine the shrimp, scallops, pork, ginger, cilantro, shallots, vinegar, sesame oil and egg whites in a food processor. Season with salt and pepper, add the corn starch and lemon juice and pulse to combine– I like my fillings to have a little texture. (Alternatively chop the shrimp and scallops finely then add the pork, ginger, cilantro and vinegar and chop together. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and rapidly mix in the vinegar, sesame oil, egg whites, seasoning, corn starch and lemon juice.) To make the shumai: Hold a wonton wrapper in your hand. Spoon 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center of the wrapper (rinse the spoon in cold water so the filling doesn’t stick). Gather the edges of the wrapper up around the filling and squeeze the sides together with your fingers forming a little pleated cup. (The sides will naturally pleat, leaving the filling slightly exposed.) Tap the dumpling on the table so the bottom is flat and it stands upright then set aside on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling. Top each shumai with a pea. (You can freeze any leftover filling.) Lightly oil the bottom of a bamboo steamer then line it with the cabbage leaves. Stand the dumplings in the steamer in a single layer taking care that they don’t touch one another. (A 10-inch steamer will accommodate 12 shumai). Bring about 2 inches of water to a boil in a wok. Set the bamboo steamer in the wok, cover it with the bamboo lid and steam until the shumai feel firm, 10 to 12 minutes. Serve the shumai immediately garnished with green onions and accompanied by soy sauce or dipping sauces of your choice.

The Lemon Marinade for Fresh Mozzarella

The Lemon Marinade for Fresh Mozzarella

1 1/2 cups extra-virgin olive oil

1-2 inch x 1- inch strip of lemon peel (yellow part only)

1 garlic clove, minced

1 fresh bay leaf

1 sprig fresh rosemary

1 sprig fresh thyme

1 sprig fresh oregano

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 pound mozzarella bocconcini or ciliegini, drained

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the olive oil. Add the lemon peel, garlic, bay leaf, rosemary, thyme, oregano, crushed red pepper and salt and let steep for 3 to 5 minutes over low heat. Remove from heat and allow to completely cool. When cool, pour over the bocconcini and allow to marinate for 2 to 4 hours and up to 1 week before serving.

Salmon Cakes

Salmon Cakes

3 (6-oz.) cans salmon, drained

1 1/2 C. cracker meal

2 large eggs, beaten

2 rounded tsp. Old Bay seasoning blend

1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped

20 blades fresh chives, snipped

3 T. fresh dill, finely chopped

1 tsp. cayenne pepper sauce or dash of cayenne pepper

Zest of 1 lemon

 

 

Combine salmon, cracker meal to the bowl and work through the fish with your hands. Add the eggs, seasoning, pepper, chives, dill, pepper, and the zest of one lemon to the bowl. Combine the ingredients well with your hands. Form 3-inch patties of salmon cakes 1-inch thick. In a skillet with oil heated, fry cakes until golden in a single layer 3 or 4 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towel lined plate.

Chili-Roasted Peanuts with Cilantro

Chili-Roasted Peanuts with Cilantro

 

 

1 egg white

1 T. water

1 C. dry-roasted unsalted peanuts

1/2 tsp. sugar

1/4 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. minced garlic

1/8 tsp. salt

2 T. minced fresh cilantro

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, beat the egg white and water with a fork. Add the peanuts and toss to coat. Drain the nuts through a fine sieve. Pick up a few nuts at a time (so any remaining clumps of egg white drip off) and transfer to a large nonstick baking sheet. Sprinkle on the sugar, chili powder, garlic, and salt. Toss with the fork to coat with the seasoning mixture. Spread the peanuts out in a single layer so they are not in clumps. Bake for 5 minutes. Stir the peanuts. Bake for 10 minutes more, stirring occasionally, or until sizzling and browned. Remove from the oven. Toss with the cilantro. Serve hot.

 

Yield: 32 servings

Calories: 55

Fat: 5g

Fiber: 1g

“Refried” Bean Quesadillas

“Refried” Bean Quesadillas

 

2 tablespoons olive oil 

2 tablespoons minced garlic 

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin 

1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano 

1/8 teaspoon salt 

1 3/4 cups home-cooked pink beans or 1 can (15 1/2 ounces) pink beans, rinsed and drained 

1 cup vegetable broth or water 

 

6 whole wheat flour tortillas (8″ diameter) 

3/4 cup “refried” beans 

1 cup purchased fresh salsa 

 

To make the refried beans: In a saucepan, combine the oil, garlic, cumin, oregano, and salt. Cook over low heat for 3 minutes, or until fragrant (do not brown the garlic). Add the beans and stir to coat with the seasonings. Add the broth or water. Increase the heat to medium. Cook at a medium simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid reduces and the beans squash easily with the back of a spoon. Transfer to a blender or food processor fitted with a metal blade, or use an immersion blender, and process for about 2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed, until smooth. To make the quesadillas: Preheat a heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Lay the tortillas on a work surface. Spread 1 /4 cup of the beans evenly over 3 tortillas. Cover with the other 3 tortillas. Cook the quesadillas, one at a time, on the skillet or griddle for 2 minutes, or until browned on the bottom. Flip and cook for about 2 minutes, or until heated through. Continue until all of the quesadillas are cooked. 6. Cut each quesadilla into 8 wedges. Serve with salsa for topping.

 

Yield: 12 servings

Calories: 74

Fat: 2g

Fiber: 2g

Bruschetta with Tuscan White Beans

Bruschetta with Tuscan White Beans

1 T. + 2 tsp. olive oil, preferably extra virgin

1 tsp. minced garlic

1/2 tsp. crumbled dried sage

Pinch of salt

Pinch of ground red pepper

1 C. cooked cannellini beans

1/2 C. canned diced tomatoes in juice

20 thinly sliced rounds whole wheat baguette, toasted, or whole wheat crackers

 

In a nonstick skillet, combine the oil, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat for 1 minute, or until sizzling. Add the beans and tomatoes. Increase the heat to medium. Simmer for 5 minutes, mashing occasionally with a fork, or until thickened. Spread the mixture on the baguette slices or crackers. Serve right away. The bean topping can be prepared and refrigerated several days in advance of serving. Reheat in a microwaveable dish for about 2 minutes on high power before spreading on the toast or crackers.

 

Yield: 10 servings

Calories: 84

Fat: 4g

Fiber: 1g

Coctel de Camarón (Veracruz Style Shrimp Cocktail)

Coctel de Camarón (Veracruz Style Shrimp Cocktail)

2 C. Catsup
2 T. Apple Cider Vinegar
Liquid from pickled Jalapeno, to taste
½ C. Olive Oil
Salt, to Taste
1 ½ lb. small Shrimp, clean and cooked
3 T. Cilantro, roughly chopped
½ C. White Onion, finely diced
Lime Wedges
Olive Oil, to taste
Saltine Crackers

Mix the ketchup, vinegar, liquid from the chiles, and olive oil. Season with salt to taste. Arrange the shrimp in 4 large, chilled glasses. Pour the ketchup mixture on top of the shrimp. Garnish with the cilantro and onion. Serve with the lime wedges, saltine crackers and olive oil to taste.

Edamame Hummus

Edamame Hummus

 

1 package (16 ounces) shelled, frozen edamame 

3 tablespoons tahini 

1/4 cup olive oil 

3 tablespoons lemon juice 

1 large clove garlic, smashed 

1/2 teaspoon salt 

1/2 cup cold water 

 

 In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a rapid boil. Pour in the edamame. Return to a boil and cook for about 6 minutes, or until the beans are creamy inside and easy to smash with a fork. Drain the edamame and dunk in a large bowl of cold water, about 3 minutes. Drain when cool.  In a food processor fitted with a metal blade or in a blender, combine the edamame, tahini, oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Pulse, scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally, until the mixture is pureed smooth. Add cold water, a little at a time, until the mixture is creamy.

 

Yield: 8 servings

Calories: 170

Fat: 12g

Fiber: 3g

English Muffins Toasted with Cinnamon Cheese and Maple Apples

English Muffins Toasted with Cinnamon Cheese and Maple Apples

 

1 whole grain English muffin 

1/4 cup 1% dry-curd cottage cheese 

Ground cinnamon 

6 apple slices (about 1 1/2 ounces) 

1 teaspoon maple syrup 

 

Split the muffin and place on a broiler pan or sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Spread the cottage cheese evenly over the muffin halves. Sprinkle to taste with cinnamon. Cover with the apple slices in a single layer. Drizzle 1/2 teaspoon syrup over the apples on each half. Broil 6″ from the heat source for about 2 minutes, or until the apples start to sizzle. Serve right away.

 

Yield: 2 servings

Calories: 110

Fat; 1g

Fiber: 3g

Roasted Pepper Roll-Ups

Roasted Pepper Roll-Ups

1 15-ounce can white kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1/2 of an 8-ounce package reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchatel), softened

1/4 cup packed fresh basil

1 tablespoon fat-free milk

2 small cloves garlic, quartered

1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup roasted red sweet peppers, drained and finely chopped

6 6-inch flour tortillas

1 cup packed spinach leaves

 

For filling, in a blender or food processor combine the beans, cream cheese, basil, milk, garlic, and black pepper. Cover and blend or process until smooth. Stir in roasted sweet peppers. To assemble, spread about 1/3 cup of the filling evenly over each tortilla to within 1/2 inch of the edges. Arrange spinach leaves over filling to cover. Carefully roll tortillas up tightly. Cover and chill roll-ups for 2 hours to 24 hours. To serve, use a sharp knife to cut roll-ups crosswise into 1-1/2-inch slices. Serve immediately.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 173

Fat: 7g

Fiber: 4g

Zucchini Sticks with Honey-Mustard Mayo

Zucchini Sticks with Honey-Mustard Mayo

1/4 C. all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. table salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
4 medium zucchini, ends trimmed, cut into 12 x 1-inch sticks each
3 medium egg whites, lightly beaten
1 C. seasoned bread crumbs
1/2 C. fat-free mayonnaise
1 T. honey
1 T. Dijon mustard

Preheat oven to 400F. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray. Combine flour, salt and pepper in a shallow dish. Mix well with a fork to combine. Add zucchini sticks and turn to coat. Place egg whites and bread crumbs in separate shallow dishes. Add zucchini to egg whites and turn to coat. Transfer to bread crumbs and turn to coat. Place coated zucchini on prepared baking sheet and coat with cooking spray. Bake 40 minutes, until golden brown. Whisk together mayonnaise, honey and mustard. Serve zucchini sticks with honey-mustard mayo on the side.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 111
Fat: 1g
Fiber: 2g

Mini Polenta Cakes with Smoked Salmon

Mini Polenta Cakes with Smoked Salmon

1 C. yellow cornmeal
2 tsp. margarine
1 garlic clove, minced
2 1/3 C. low-salt chicken broth
1/2 C. low-fat buttermilk
1/4 C. grated Parmesan cheese
1 C. frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed
1/3 C. chopped onion
3 egg whites
1 egg
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. white pepper
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper
Vegetable cooking spray
1/4 C. nonfat cream cheese, softened
2 T. plain nonfat yogurt
1 tsp. grated lemon rind
Dash of salt
3 oz. cold-smoked salmon, cut into 20 (2 x 1/2-inch) strips
Fresh dill sprigs (optional)

Combine first 3 ingredients in a large saucepan. Gradually add broth, stirring constantly with a wire whisk. Bring to a boil, and reduce heat to medium. Cook 3 minutes or until thickened, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in buttermilk and Parmesan cheese, and set aside. Place the corn and onion in a food processor, and process until corn is coarsely chopped. Combine corn mixture, egg whites, and egg in a large bowl; stir well. Stir in cornmeal mixture, 1/4 tsp. salt, and peppers. Pour polenta mixture into an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray, spreading evenly. Bake at 400� for 50 minutes or until browned. Let mixture cool. Cut corn mixture into 20 decorative shapes with a 1 1/2-inch cutter. Remove shapes from baking dish, and arrange on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Discard remaining polenta mixture. Bake at 400� for 20 minutes. Combine nonfat cream cheese, yogurt, grated lemon rind, and dash of salt in a small bowl; stir well, and set aside. Spoon about 1/4 tsp. cream cheese mixture onto each polenta cake. Top each cake with a salmon strip, and garnish with fresh dill, if desired.

Yield: 20 appetizers
Calories: 25
Fat: 0.7g
Fiber: 0.3g

Chipotle Shrimp Cups

Chipotle Shrimp Cups

36 wonton wrappers
Cooking spray
1 1/2 C. (6 oz.) shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
1 C. chopped cooked shrimp
1 C. chopped bottled roasted red bell peppers
1 C. bottled chipotle salsa
1/2 C. chopped green onions

Preheat oven to 350�. Fit 1 wonton wrapper into each of 36 mini muffin C. coated with cooking spray, pressing the wrappers into sides of C.. Bake at 350� for 7 minutes or until lightly browned. Keep wontons in muffin cups. Combine cheese and remaining ingredients, and spoon about 1 T. cheese mixture into each wonton C.. Bake at 350� for 6 minutes or until cheese melts. Remove from muffin C.. Serve immediately.

Yield: 3 dozen
Serving size: 2 filled wonton cups

Calories: 98
Fat: 2.6g
Fiber: 1.4g

Swiss Scalloped Potatoes

Swiss Scalloped Potatoes

2 medium leeks (3/4 lb.)
2 T. fresh lemon juice
2 tsp. olive oil
1/2 tsp. salt, divided
1/8 tsp. pepper
Cooking spray
4 C. thinly sliced baking potatoes (1 1/2 lb.)
1 C. skim milk
1/3 C. Spiced Pear Butter
3/4 C. (3 oz.) grated Gruyère cheese

Preheat oven to 500�. Remove roots, outer leaves, and tops from leeks. Rinse under cold water; cut into 1 1/2 x 1/2-inch strips. Combine leeks, lemon juice, olive oil, 1/4 tsp. salt, and pepper in an 11 x 7-inch baking dish. Bake at 500 for 20 minutes or until leeks are tender, stirring once. Spoon leek mixture into a bowl; set aside. Reduce oven temperature to 350. Coat baking dish with cooking spray and arrange half of the potato slices in dish. Spread leek mixture over potato slices. Top with remaining potato slices; sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. salt. Combine the milk and Spiced Pear Butter in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk until smooth; pour over potato slices. Cover loosely with foil; bake at 350 for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake 30 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese and bake an additional 10 minutes.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 248
Fat: 6.6g
Fiber: 2.8g

Pan-Fried Garlic-Scallop Dumplings

Pan-Fried Garlic-Scallop Dumplings

1/2 lb. scallops, minced
1/4 C. minced fresh onion
2 T. low-sodium soy sauce
1 T. minced peeled fresh ginger
1/2 tsp. chili oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
36 round gyoza skins
2 tsp. vegetable oil, divided
1/2 C. water, divided
3/4 C. Soy-Sesame Dipping Sauce
Sliced green onions (optional)
Edible flowers (optional)

Combine first 6 ingredients in a bowl. Spoon about 1 1/2 tsp. of scallop mixture into center of each gyoza skin, working with 1 skin at a time (cover remaining skins to keep them from drying). Moisten edges of skin with water. Fold in half, pinching edges together to seal. Place dumplings on a baking sheet; cover loosely with a towel to keep them from drying. Heat 1 tsp. vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange half of dumplings in skillet; cover. Cook 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Add 1/4 C. water; reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer 5 minutes. Remove dumplings, and keep warm. Repeat procedure with remaining dumplings, 1 tsp. vegetable oil, and 1/4 C. water. Serve with Soy-Sesame Dipping Sauce. Garnish with green onions and edible flowers, if desired.

Yield: 12 appetizer servings
Serving size: 3 dumplings and about 1 T. sauce

Calories: 111
Fat: 2.1g
Fiber: 0.1g

Ultimate Crab Dip

Ultimate Crab Dip

2 (8-oz.) blocks fat-free cream cheese
1/4 C. low-fat plain yogurt
1 T. prepared horseradish
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper
1/4 tsp. hot sauce
1 T. finely chopped green onions
1/2 C. chopped water chestnuts
1 lb. lump crabmeat, shell pieces removed

Beat cream cheese at high speed of a mixer until smooth. Add yogurt, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, and hot sauce; beat well. Stir in green onions, water chestnuts, and crabmeat.

Yield: 4 C.
Serving size: 1/4 C.

Calories: 15
Fat: 0.4g
Fiber: 1.2g

Crispy Broiled Shrimp With Tangy Cocktail Sauce

Crispy Broiled Shrimp With Tangy Cocktail Sauce

1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 24 shrimp)
1/4 C. cornstarch
1 T. water
2 large egg whites
1 1/2 C. finely crushed reduced-fat round buttery crackers (about 35 crackers) (such as Ritz)
1 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground white pepper
Cooking spray
Tangy Cocktail Sauce
Lemon wedges

Combine shrimp and cornstarch in a zip-top plastic bag; seal and shake to coat. Combine water and egg whites in a bowl; beat with a whisk until foamy. Combine crumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip shrimp in egg white mixture; dredge in crumb mixture. Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray; lightly coat shrimp with cooking spray. Preheat broiler. Broil 5 minutes or until shrimp are done, turning once. Serve with Tangy Cocktail Sauce and lemon wedges.

Yield: 6 appetizer servings
Serving size: 4 shrimp and 2 T. sauce

Calories: 106
Fat: 1.2g
Fiber: 0.3g

Striped Ribbon Sandwiches

Striped Ribbon Sandwiches

Vegetable cooking spray
2 1/2 C. chopped red bell pepper
1/2 C. chopped onion
1 T. tomato paste
1/8 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
3/4 C. seeded and coarsely shredded peeled cucumber
1/2 C. nonfat cream cheese
1/2 C. (2 oz.) crumbled blue cheese
1/8 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. ground red pepper
16 (1/2-oz.) slices very thin white bread
8 (1/2-oz.) slices very thin whole-wheat bread
Parsley sprigs (optional)

Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray; place over medium-high heat until hot. Add bell pepper and onion; saute 4 minutes or until tender. Combine bell pepper mixture, tomato paste, 1/8 tsp. salt, and black pepper in food processor, and process until smooth. Return mixture to skillet, and cook over medium-high heat 3 minutes or until thickened. Spoon mixture into a bowl, and let cool; cover and chill. Place cucumber on several layers of paper towels; cover with additional paper towels, pressing until barely moist. Combine the cream cheese, blue cheese,1/8 tsp. salt, and ground red pepper in a small bowl, stirring until smooth. Stir in cucumber; cover and chill. Spread 2 T. bell pepper mixture over each of 8 slices of white bread; top each with a slice of wheat bread. Spread 2 T. cucumber mixture over each slice of wheat bread; top with remaining white bread. Trim crusts from sandwiches. Cut each sandwich into quarters, making rectangles, squares, or triangles. Garnish with parsley sprigs, if desired. Note: If made ahead, cover sandwiches with a slightly damp paper towel and plastic wrap, and place in an airtight container.

Yield: 32 servings
Serving size: 1 sandwich

Calories: 33
Fat: 0.8g
Fiber: 0.4g

Baked Feta with Marinara

Baked Feta with Marinara

1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (14.5-oz.) can diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano, drained
1 (4-oz.) package crumbled feta cheese
Cooking spray
32 (1/2-inch-thick) slices diagonally cut French bread baguette (about 1 lb.), toasted

Preheat oven to 350�. Combine first 4 ingredients in a bowl. Sprinkle feta evenly into a 6-inch gratin dish or small shallow baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with tomato mixture. Bake at 350� for 20 minutes. Serve as a spread with bread slices.

Yield: 16 servings
Serving size: 2 bread slices and 2 T. spread

Calories: 107
Fat: 2.4g
Fiber: 1g

Caramelized Onion Quesadillas

Caramelized Onion Quesadillas

Caramelized Onion Quesadillas 

1 T. olive oil

1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced crosswise

1 Sweet yellow onion halved and sliced.

4 scallions, sliced

3 cloves garlic, chopped

3/4 tsp. ground cumin

1/4 tsp. dried oregano, crumbled

1 T. fresh lime juice

4 large (10-inch) flour tortillas

1 C. shredded jalape¿o-Jack cheese (4 oz.)

1 C. shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (4 oz.)

Bottled salsa (optional)

Sour cream (optional)

 

Heat oil in skillet over medium-low heat. Add red onion, yellow onion, scallions and garlic; cook, covered, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 15 minutes.  Add cumin and oregano; cook, uncovered, 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in lime juice.  Heat oven to 400 degrees F.  Place 2 tortillas side-by-side on baking sheet. Divide onion mixture between each tortilla. Sprinkle each with Jack cheese and Cheddar cheese. Top each with remaining tortillas.  Bake in 400 degree F oven 8 minutes or until heated through and tortillas are golden around edges. Let stand 5 minutes. Cut each into sixths. Serve with salsa and sour cream.

Low-Fat Carrot Cake with a Twist

Low-Fat Carrot Cake with a Twist

2 eggs
2 egg whites
2 C. flour
2 C. splenda
2 tsp baking powder
11/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
11/2 C. pureed figs or prunes (baby food jars)
2 C. peeled and grated carrots
1 (8 oz.) can crushed pineapple (reserve juice)
1 C. raisins
1/2 C. chopped walnuts
1 C. powdered sugar for glaze

Lightly beat together eggs and egg whites. Sift together flour, splenda, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon into separate bowl. Stir to blend. Add pureed baby food jars, beaten eggs, carrots, pineapple, raisins, and nuts. Stir until blended. Turn mixture into a 13 x 9 x 2 baking pan, sprayed with nonstick vegetable spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes. While cake cools, blend powdered sugar with 2 T. reserved pineapple juice. Drizzle over cake.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 119.7
Fat: 1.7g
Fiber: 1.4g

Cinnamon Apple Chips

Cinnamon Apple Chips

2 C. unsweetened Apple Juice
1 tsp. Lemon Juice
1 Cinnamon Stick
2 Red Delicious Apples

In large pot combine apple juice, lemon juice and cinnamon stik; bring to a simmer while preparing apples. Cut each apple crosswise into very thin even slices. No need to core them unless you like, boiling the slices in juice softens the core and removes the seeds. Drop apple slices into simmering juice mixture; cook 3 – 4 minutes or until slices appear translucent and lightly golden. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 275 degrees. With a sloted spatula, remove apple slices from the juice and pat dry. Arrange slices on cooling racks, being sure not to overlap. Place racks on middle shelf in oven and bake 45 to 60 minutes or until clives are mostly dry to the touch and lightly browned. Cool chips completely before storing in airtight containers.

Yield: 40 chips
Serving Size: 5 Chips

Calories: 41
Fat: 0g
Fiber: 2g

Delicious Dill Dip

Delicious Dill Dip

4 oz. Neufchatel Cheese
1/2 C. nonfat Cottage Cheese
8oz. nonfat Sour Cream
3 T. finely chopped Scallion
2 tsp. dried Dill Weed
1 tsp. Seasoned Salt, or to taste.

In blender or food processor, cream together all ingredients. Chill for 24 hours. If dip becomes too thick, stir in 1 – 2 T. skim milk.

Yield: 2 C.
Serving Size: 1 T.

Calories: 16
Fat: 1g
Fiber: 0g

Wonton Chicken Bites

Wonton Chicken Bites

36 won-ton wrappers
1/2 of a 16-ounce bag coleslaw
1 C. cooked, chopped chicken
1 can (8 oz.) water chestnuts, finely chopped
5 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tsp. roasted sesame oil
4 T. Chinese plum sauce

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Cut a 1/2-inch strip off one side of each won ton skin; pleat wrappers into oiled mini-muffin tins to make cups. Bake until golden, 8 minutes. Let stand at least 5 minutes. Place cabbage, chicken, water chestnuts and green onions in a large bowl. Stir in sesame oil and plum sauce. Spoon into cooled wonton cups.

Yield: 36 pieces
Calories: 40
Fat: .7g
Fiber: .6g

Tomato and Mozzarella Stacks with Yellow Pepper Coulis

Tomato and Mozzarella Stacks with Yellow Pepper Coulis

1 large yellow bell pepper, about 10 oz., roasted and peeled with stem and seeds discarded
1 T. olive oil
3 medium ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced crosswise into 6 slices each
4 oz. part skim mozzarella cheese, cut into 12 thin rounds
1 T. fresh oregano leaves

Place bell pepper and olive oil in a food processor or blender. Process to a smooth puree. Spoon 1/6 of the mixture onto each of 6 salad plates, forming thin puddles. Stack 3 tomato and 2 mozzarella slices in the middle of each plate, alternating, starting and ending with a tomato slice. Sprinkle each with some of the oregano leaves. Serve cold.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 99
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 2g

Tapas Platter

Tapas Platter

 

1 C. (4 ounces) Manchego cheese, cut in 1/2-inch cubes

1 C. whole roasted almonds

1 C. assorted ripe olives

Minted Chutney-Roasted Peppers

4 ounces thinly sliced Serrano ham (dry-cured Spanish ham) or prosciutto

 

Place cheese, almonds, olives, and Minted Chutney-Roasted Peppers in separate small bowls. (Be sure to have an empty bowl on hand for olive pits). Fan ham in overlapping slices on a plate. Give guests small plates, or place all bowls on a single tray (ham may be placed directly on tray, along with flatbread for peppers). Serve with toothpicks.

Grilled Pancetta-Radicchio Wraps with Goat Cheese

Grilled Pancetta-Radicchio Wraps with Goat Cheese

 

6 ounces fresh chèvre (goat cheese)

6 radicchio leaves (about 3 by 5 in. each), rinsed

6 slices pancetta (1 1/2 to 2 oz. total)

2 T. balsamic vinegar

 

Divide the cheese equally among the radicchio leaves, placing it in the center. Fold one edge of each leaf over cheese, then roll up gently to enclose. Wrap a slice of pancetta around each roll and secure with one or two toothpicks (it’s okay if pancetta tears a little). Lay radicchio rolls on an oiled barbecue grill over medium-hot coals or medium-high heat on a gas grill (you can hold your hand at grill level only 3 to 4 seconds); close lid on gas grill. Turn rolls as needed until pancetta is lightly browned and crisp on all sides, 5 to 8 minutes total. Arrange rolls on a platter and drizzle with vinegar. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Creamy Caramel-Peanut Butter Dip

Creamy Caramel-Peanut Butter Dip

 

25 KRAFT Caramels (1/2 of 14-oz. bag)

1/4 C. milk

2 T.. peanut butter

3 red or green apples, each cut into 8 slices

1/2 C. PLANTERS Dry Roasted Peanuts, chopped

 

Place caramels, milk and peanut butter in microwaveable bowl. Microwave on HIGH 2-1/2 to 3 min. or until caramels are completely melted, stirring after each min. Serve warm as a dip with the apple slices. Sprinkle dipped apples with peanuts.

Pancetta-Wrapped Garlic

Pancetta-Wrapped Garlic

 

18 large garlic cloves (unpeeled)

1 T. salt

4 thin slices pancetta or thin-cut bacon

 

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Drain and rinse with cool water. Peel garlic. Bring 1 qt. water to a boil. Add salt and garlic. Bring back to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until garlic is tender when tested with a fork, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain and let cool. Preheat oven to 375°. Unroll pancetta slices into strips and cut into 2 1/2-in. lengths. Wrap each garlic clove with a pancetta strip, securing with a toothpick. Put garlic on a baking sheet and bake until sizzling and starting to brown, about 15 minutes. Serve hot.

Rustic Summer Squash Tart Recipe

Rustic Summer Squash Tart Recipe

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 lb mixed summer squash (zucchini, yellow squash and pattypan), cut in 1/4-in. rounds

2 shallots, thinly sliced

2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme or marjoram, plus sprigs for garnish

1 tsp. chopped garlic

Freshly ground pepper

1 refrigerated pie crust (from a 15-oz. box)

4 oz Roquefort cheese, Gorgonzola or other good-quality blue cheese

1 roasted yellow or red pepper (freshly roasted or from a jar), cut in strips

1 large plum tomato, sliced, seeds removed

1 large egg, beaten

 

Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add squash and shallots and cook, turning pieces as they start to color, 7 minutes or until crisp-tender. Remove from heat; stir in thyme, garlic and pepper to taste. Cool to room temperature. Heat oven to 400° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; unroll or unfold pie crust on the parchment. With a rolling pin, roll crust to a 13-in. round. Crumble half the cheese over crust to within 2 in. of edge. Arrange squash mixture, pepper strips and tomato slices on cheese; fold edge of the crust over filling and brush crust with egg. Bake 35 to 40 minutes until pastry is golden. Slide tart, still on parchment, onto a wire rack. Crumble remaining cheese over top. Let cool before serving.

 

Yield: 12 servings

Calories: 144

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 1g

Spanish Ham and Cheese Quesadillas

Spanish Ham and Cheese Quesadillas

 

4 Large Flour Tortillas

Cooking Spray

1/4 C. Spanish Olives with pimiento, chopped

8 marinated mushrooms drained and sliced

Flat leaf parsley, a handful chopped

8 slices Serrano ham or Prosciutto

1/2 pound Fontina cheese, thinly sliced

 

Salad:

1 small shallot, grated

3 T. Olive Oil

2 Hearts of Romaine lettuce, chopped

1/4 seedless cucumber, thinly sliced

4 roasted Spanish piquillo peppers, or 2 roasted red peppers

1/4 C. sliced toasted almonds

 

Preheat oven to 250. Preheat a foil lined baking sheet in the middle of the oven. Preheat a skillet over medium high heat Spray tortilla lightly with cooking spray and place in hot skillet. Heat until it starts to blister, about 1 minute, then flip it over. Top 1/2 of the tortilla with one quarter of the olives, mushrooms, and parsley. Top with two slices of cheese and ham. Fold the tortilla over and cook for another minute on each side to melt the cheese . Transfer to warm oven and repeat with remaining tortillas and filling. For the salad, combine the shallot and the vinegar and whisk in the Olive Oil

Combine the Hearts of Romaine, cucumber, peppers and almonds in a bowl and toss with the dressing. Season with salt and pepper.

Baked Jalapeno Poppers

Baked Jalapeno Poppers

 

12 large jalapeño peppers

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

4 ounces Manchego cheese, grated

2 to 3 T. green salad olives with pimientos, finely chopped

2 T. chopped parsley or cilantro

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Slice off a lengthwise piece of each jalapeño then, using a small spoon or paring knife, scrape the seeds out of each pepper to make little jalapeño canoes. Chop the tops finely and add to a mixing bowl with the cream cheese, Manchego, green olives, parsley, salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use a small spoon to fill the canoes or transfer the mixture to a re-sealable plastic bag, snip off the end and squeeze the mixture into the hulls of your jalapeño canoes. Arrange the peppers on cookie sheet, transfer to the oven and roast for 15 minutes.

Tarte Tatin á la Tomate – Tomato Tatin

Tarte Tatin á la Tomate – Tomato Tatin

 

Pâte Brisée (your favorite recipe), OR 1 sheet commercially prepared puff pastry, thawed
Extra virgin olive oil
2 pounds Roma or plum tomatoes (substitute any other firm and not too juicy variety)
Fine sea salt and freshly ground pepper
Herbes de Provence (or a mix of dried rosemary, basil, oregano, and thyme)
1/4 cup black olive tapenade, store-bought or homemade
6 ounces fresh goat cheese
1/3 cup (loosely packed) fresh basil leaves
Chilling time: 30 minutes for the dough

Prepare the Pâte Brisée, wrap securely in cling film and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. May be made up to 24 hours ahead. I used a sheet of commercially prepared puff pastry, (thawed as directed on package.) Preheat the oven to 350°F. Rub the interior of a 10-inch ceramic quiche pan with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Halve the tomatoes lengthwise and core them. Using your thumb dislodge seeds in the crevices (discard), squeeze tomatoes gently to rid them of some of their juices. Arrange them in the prepared pan, skin side down, in a circular pattern. They will shrink as they bake, fill the pan snugly. Season with salt, pepper, herbs, and a good drizzle of olive oil. Bake for 30 minutes, until softened. Remove from the oven (retaining oven temperature). Remove the dough from the fridge and let stand at room temperature for 10 minutes. Working on a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough in an 11-inch circle and prick all over with a fork. Spread with tapenade, leaving a 1-inch margin all around. Cut the cheese in 1⁄3-inch slices and arrange over the tomatoes in the pan. Lay the dough, tapenade side down, on the cheese, and tuck in the overhanging flaps of dough. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the crust is golden. Remove to a rack and allow to cool for several minutes. Loosen the edge of the pastry by running a knife around the inside of the quiche pan. To flip: Protect your hands with oven mitts and place an overturned serving plate over the top of the pan, flip quickly but carefully. Don’t worry if some of the tomatoes stay in the pan, just arrange them on the tart. Just before serving garnish with fresh basil leaves, snipped or torn if desired. This is best served warm or at room temperature the same day it is made. Suggested variations: Instead of tapenade, spread the dough with onion confit, anchovy paste, or pesto. Instead of goat cheese, use slices of buffalo mozzarella, drained and patted dry with paper towels.

Bacon and Tomato Hash

Bacon and Tomato Hash

2 slices center cut bacon, chopped

1 small Roma tomato, chopped

Handful flat leaf parsley, chopped

2 teaspoons garlic-infused oil (I used grape seed oil)

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (I forgot this and it was fine)

Small handful fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Freshly ground black pepper

Bread for serving (optional)

Srircha or chili garlic sauce for serving (optional)

 

Heat the oil in a medium skillet. When the oil is hot, add bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on a towel. Add the tomatoes to the bacon fat and oil (stand back!) and cook until warmed through. Add the Worcestershire and toss to combine. Add the bacon back to the skillet and mix with the tomato before transferring to a plate. Serve with hot sauce and bread if desired.

Olive Oil Cake with Rosemary and Lemon

Olive Oil Cake with Rosemary and Lemon

Basic cake recipe:

1 ¼ C. all-purpose flour

¼ tsp. baking powder

¼ tsp. baking soda

¼ tsp. salt

2 eggs, at room temperature

1 C. sugar

½ C. fruity extra-virgin olive oil

¾ C. milk

 

Additions:

2-3 T. chopped fresh rosemary

The zest of 2 small lemons

The juice of 1 small lemon

1 cup grated Reggiano-Parmigiano

Several cranks of freshly ground black pepper

 

Preheat the oven to 350. Line a 10-inch loaf pan or 9-inch round pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well blended, about 1 minute. Whisk in the olive oil and milk. Whisk the egg mixture into the flour mixture until thoroughly blended. Gently mix in the rosemary, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and Reggiano-Parmigiano. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until the cake is firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 40 minutes. Transfer the pan to a rack to cool for about 20 minutes before removing the cake. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Torta with Crostini

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Torta with Crostini

8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature

1 small garlic clove, peeled

1/4 C. fresh basil, loosely packed

Parmesan cheese

Crostini for serving

4 ounces blue cheese at room temperature

3/4 C. Italian parsley; fresh, loosely packed

1/4 C. sun-dried tomatoes, drained

1/4 C. walnuts, finely chopped

1/4 C. olive oil

Crostini:

1 French bread baguette

2 T. herbes de provence (or your — choice of herb blend

1/4 C. olive oil

1 T. garlic, minced

In mixing bowl combine cream cheese and blue cheese and allow to come to room temperature. Mix until thoroughly blended and set aside. Drop one small clove garlic into the dry bowl of an electric food processor with the motor running. Instant minced garlic. You may of course, mince the garlic and chop the remaining ingredients by hand. Combine parsley, basil and sun-dried tomatoes in the bowl of the processor with the garlic; process until smooth, then with the motor running pour in the olive oil. Transfer the mixture to a small bowl. Stir in the Parmesan and walnuts. Line a 5-1/2 x 2-1/2 inch loaf pan (or small round casserole) with plastic wrap, leaving extra wrap hanging over the sides. Divide the cheese mixture into three equal portions. Spread one-third of cheese mixture on bottom of pan; spread half of the tomato-basil mixture over cheese. Repeat the cheese layer and tomato-basil layer. Top with the remaining third of cheese. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 hours (or freeze). To serve, allow the torta to come to room temperature for 30 minutes (2 hours if frozen). Invert onto a platter, provide a spreader and serve with crostini. To make crostini: Preheat oven to 350°. Cut French bread into thin slices and place on a cookie sheet. In small bowl, combine olive oil, herbs and garlic. Spread or brush each slice lightly with the herb-garlic mixture and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until golden.

Veggie Sticks with Avocado-Lime Dip

Veggie Sticks with Avocado-Lime Dip

 

1/2 pound green beans, ends trimmed

1 firm-ripe avocado (10 oz.), pitted and peeled

1/2 C. plain nonfat yogurt

2 T. lime juice

1 T. loose-packed fresh mint leaves, rinsed (optional)

1 clove garlic, peeled

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 pound jicama, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch-thick sticks

 

In a 2- to 3-quart pan over high heat, bring about 1 quart water to a boil. Add green beans and cook until tender to bite, 3 to 6 minutes. Drain and immerse immediately in ice water until cool, about 2 minutes; drain again. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, yogurt, lime juice, mint (if using), garlic, and salt; whirl until very smooth. Spoon dip into a bowl and serve with green beans and jicama sticks.

Zucchini Timbales

Zucchini Timbales

 

About 1 1/2 ounces crusty Italian or French bread

3 pounds zucchini

1/4 to 1/2 C. olive oil

3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

1 1/2 T. chopped fresh or 1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano leaves

About 1/2 tsp. salt

About 1/4 tsp. pepper

1/2 C. grated parmesan cheese

4 firm-ripe tomatoes (6 oz. each)

Fresh oregano sprigs (optional), rinsed

 

Cut bread into 1/2-inch chunks. In a food processor or blender, whirl into coarse crumbs; you should have 2/3 C.. Rinse zucchini and trim and discard ends. Cut into 1/8-inch-thick rounds. In a 5- to 6-quart pan over medium heat, stir bread crumbs often until golden and crisp, about 5 minutes. Pour into a bowl. Add 3 T. olive oil to pan and increase heat to medium-high. Stir in zucchini, garlic, chopped oregano, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until zucchini begins to soften, about 5 minutes. Uncover and stir often until zucchini is browned and soft when pressed, 7 to 10 minutes longer. Remove from heat and stir in toasted crumbs, the parmesan cheese, and more salt and pepper to taste. Generously oil six to eight ramekins (1/2- to 3/4-C. size) with 1 T. olive oil. Divide zucchini mixture evenly among ramekins and press in firmly. Let stand at room temperature at least 5 minutes or up to 4 hours. Rinse and core tomatoes; cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Arrange 3 tomato slices on each of 6 to 8 salad or dinner plates. Run a knife around inside edge of ramekins and invert zucchini timbales onto tomatoes; if necessary, hold each ramekin and plate together and shake gently to release. If desired, garnish with oregano sprigs. Add more salt and pepper to taste. If desired, drizzle a little olive oil over tomatoes to taste.

Crepes

Crepes

 

1 1/2 C. Milk

1 C. Flour

2 Eggs

1 T. Oil

 

Combine all ingredients with 1/4 tsp. salt.  Beat with rotary beater until well-mixed.  Heat a lightly greased 6” skillet.  Remove from heat.  Spoon in 2 T. crepe batter and tilt skillet to spread.  Return to heat, brown on one side only.  Invert pan over paper towels and remove crepe.  Repeat until batter is gone, greasing skillet occasionally.  You can omit salt and use 2 T. sugar for desert crepes.

Zucchini Fritters

Zucchini Fritters

 

1 lb. Small Zucchini, coarsely grated

1/2 lb. Feta Cheese

6 Scallions, minced

1/2 C. Chopped Fresh Dill

1/4 C. Chopped Fresh Mint

1/4 C. Chopped Fresh Parsley

1 C. Flour

3 Eggs Lightly Beaten

Peanut Oil (for frying)

 

Place zucchini in a colander, salt it lightly and toss to mix.  Let stand in sink or over bowl for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture.  Using a kitchen towel, squeeze out excess moisture and place zucchini in bowl.  Crumble the feta cheese over the zucchini and add the green onions and all the rest of the ingredients except peanut oil.  Pepper to taste.  You can add salt, but taste first, feta cheese has a lot of salt in it already.  Stir to mix well.  Pour peanut oil into a frying pan about 1/4 inch deep.  When the oil is heated, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil, careful not to crowd the fritters.  Fry, turning once, until nicely browned on both sides.  Serve hot.