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Category: Breakfasts

Breakfast Tortilla Strata

Breakfast Tortilla Strata

1 C. bottled salsa
1 C. canned black beans, rinsed and drained
10 (6-inch) corn tortillas, cut into 1-inch strips
Cooking spray
1 C. (4 oz.) preshredded reduced-fat Mexican blend or Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1 C. low-fat sour cream
1 C. fat-free milk
1/2 tsp. salt
2 large eggs
2 large egg whites
1/4 C. thinly sliced green onions

Combine salsa and beans in a bowl. Place one-third of tortilla strips in an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with 1/3 C. cheese and about 1 C. salsa mixture. Repeat procedure with one-third of tortilla strips, 1/3 C. cheese, and remaining salsa mixture; top with remaining tortilla strips.
Combine sour cream and next 4 ingredients (sour cream through egg whites); stir with a whisk. Stir in onions. Pour over tortilla strips; sprinkle with 1/3 C. cheese. Cover and chill 8 hours or overnight. Preheat oven to 350°. Remove dish from refrigerator. Let stand at room temperature 10 minutes. Cover and bake at 350° for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes or until lightly browned.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 292
Fat: 9.2g
Fiber: 4.7g

Ham and Cheese Scones

Ham and Cheese Scones

2 C. all-purpose flour
1 T. baking powder
2 tsp. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper
3 T. chilled butter, cut into small pieces
3/4 C. (3 oz.) shredded reduced-fat extra-sharp cheddar cheese
3/4 C. finely chopped 33%-less-sodium ham (about 3 oz.)
3/4 C. fat-free buttermilk
2 large egg whites
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 400°. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring C.; level with a knife. Combine flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl; cut in butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse meal. Stir in cheese and ham. Combine buttermilk and egg whites, stirring with a whisk. Add to flour mixture, stirring just until moist. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead lightly 4 to 5 times with floured hands. Pat dough into an 8-inch circle on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Cut dough into 8 wedges, cutting into but not through dough. Bake at 400° for 20 minutes or until lightly browned.

Yield: 8 servings
Serving size: 1 wedge

Calories: 217
Fat: 7.2g
Fiber: 1g

Raspberry-Almond Coffeecake

Raspberry-Almond Coffeecake

1 C. fresh raspberries
3 T. brown sugar
1 C. all-purpose flour
1/3 C. sugar
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/8 tsp. salt
1/2 C. plain low-fat yogurt
2 T. stick margarine, melted
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 large egg
Cooking spray
1 T. sliced almonds
1/4 C. sifted powdered sugar
1 tsp. skim milk
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350°. Combine raspberries and brown sugar in a bowl. Set aside. Combine flour and next 4 ingredients (flour through salt) in a large bowl. Combine yogurt, margarine, 1 tsp. vanilla, and egg in a small bowl; stir well. Add to flour mixture, stirring just until moist. Spoon two-thirds of batter into an 8-inch round cake pan coated with cooking spray; spread evenly. Top with raspberry mixture. Spoon remaining batter over raspberry mixture; top with almonds. Bake at 350° for 40 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool 10 minutes on a wire rack. Combine powdered sugar, milk, and 1/4 tsp. vanilla; stir well. Drizzle over cake. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 176
Fat: 4.5g
FIber: 1.7g

Cheesy Brunch Casserole

Cheesy Brunch Casserole

1 lb. turkey Italian sausage
5 C. herb-seasoned stuffing mix (such as Pepperidge Farm)
Cooking spray
1/2 C. at-free, less-sodium chicken broth
2 T. butter, melted
1 1/2 C. (6 oz.) shredded reduced-fat extra-sharp cheddar cheese
2 C. 2% reduced-fat milk
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 (8-oz.) cartons egg substitute

Preheat oven to 325°. Remove casings from sausage. Cook sausage in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain. Place sausage in a large bowl; add stuffing mix, tossing to combine. Place stuffing mixture in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Drizzle stuffing mixture with broth and butter; sprinkle with cheese. Combine milk and remaining ingredients, stirring with a whisk; pour milk mixture over stuffing mixture. Bake at 325° for 40 minutes or until set. Let casserole stand 5 minutes before serving.

Yield: 9 servings
Calaories: 298
Fat: 9.6g
Fiber: 2.9g

Baked Apple Frittata

Baked Apple Frittata

butter-flavored cooking spray
1 1/2 C. egg substitute
1/3 C. low fat (1%) milk
1/4 C. unbleached all-purpose flour
2 large Granny Smith apples, cored, thinly sliced, and sprinkled with fresh lemon juice
1 T. packed light brown sugar
1 T. fresh thyme leaves

Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly coat a 3-quart ovenproof pan with cooking spray. In a bowl, whisk together egg substitute, milk, and flour. Pour into prepared pan. Toss the apple slices with the brown sugar and thyme leaves. Arrange apple slices in the middle of the batter and bake until frittata is puffed, golden brown, and set in center when pan is gently shaken, 8 to 10 minutes. Cut into wedges to serve.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 155
Fat: 1g
Fiber: 3g

Lime Coffee Cake

Lime Coffee Cake

1 3/4 C. all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
3 T. butter
3 T. canola oil
1 C. sugar
4 egg whites
2/3 C. buttermilk
1 T. fresh lime juice
11/2 tsp. grated lime zest
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a standard-size (9 x 5-inch) loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside. In another bowl combine the butter, oil, and sugar and mix until smooth. Add the egg whites and beat with an electric mixer until the batter is smooth. Alternately add the flour and buttermilk to the egg mixture, ending with flour. Add the lime juice, grated lime zest, and vanilla and mix until smooth. Pour into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool in the pan on a rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Yield: 16 slices
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 145
Fat: 4g

Apple Cheddar Omelet

Apple Cheddar Omelet

 

4 eggs

2 T milk

1 T olive oil or butter

salt & pepper

1/2 C. grated cheddar cheese

2 T diced prosciutto

1 Granny Smith apple, julienned

 

Add butter or olive oil into a large cast iron pan and toss in the diced prosciutto, letting it get crispy. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs, milk and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the prosciutto and into the hot pan, tilting to spread the eggs evenly. Let eggs firm up a little, sloshing the mixture away from the sides and into the middle. Use your spatula to allow the remaining liquid to then flow into the undersides of the cooked eggs while still keeping the egg mixture even.  Continue to cook for another minute or so until the egg mixture holds together. While the middle is still a little runny, add grated cheese and then top with the julienned apples. Fold the omelette in half with your spatula. Cut in half and serve on a plate. Use any reserved matchstick apples as garnish.

Veggie Scrambles with Pesto

Veggie Scrambles with Pesto

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil, 3 turns of the pan

1 medium onion, chopped

1 small red bell pepper, chopped

1 C. frozen green peas

8 eggs

Salt and pepper

8 rounded tsp.fuls store bought, good quality basil pesto sauce

 

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add extra-virgin olive oil, 3 turns of the pan, then onions and peppers. Cook 6 to 7 minutes then add peas and cook another minute. Whisk eggs with salt and pepper then add to veggies and scramble to desired doneness. Remove from heat and stir in pesto then plate up and serve.

Dilly Eggs

Dilly Eggs

Six beaten eggs

Splash of milk/cream

Generous shake of dried dill weed

2 T. pickle juice or light colored vinegar

1 C. shredded cheddar (whole fat or 50%)

Salt & pepper to taste

Butter to fry

 

Beat eggs in a small bowl (remove some yolks if you want). Add dill weed, salt & pepper. Add a splash of milk or cream, and the pickle juice / vinegar. Beat just to blend flavors. Heat a frying pan or skillet to medium temperature, melting a couple T. of butter (or so). Add egg mixture and let begin to set for a few minutes. Stir in cheese, and scramble.

 

 

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BANANA ZUCCHINI NUT BREAD

BANANA ZUCCHINI NUT BREAD

3 c. whole wheat flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 c. vegetable oil

3 eggs

2 c. sugar

1 tbsp. vanilla extract

2 tbsp. banana extract

2 1/2 c. mashed bananas (4-5 bananas)

2 c. unpeeled, shredded zucchini

1 1/2 c. chopped pecans or walnuts

 

Combine flour, soda, salt, cinnamon, and baking powder in a mixing bowl and set aside. Combine oil, eggs, sugar, and extracts in a large bowl; beat well. Stir in bananas and zucchini. Add flour mixture, stirring just until moistened. Stir in nuts. Pour batter into 2 greased and floured 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 3 inch loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour 10 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes; remove and cool completely on wire racks. Yields: 2 loaves. Serves 12. TIP: The mini loaf pans are great for this recipe. It yields 20 loaves. Wrap them individually and freeze them. When the kids want a snack, just pop them in the microwave for 35 seconds to thaw.

Bacon Puff Pancakes

Bacon Puff Pancakes

2 eggs

3/4 C. milk

2 1/3 C. Bisquick baking mix

2 T. sugar

1/4 C. vegetable oil or shortening, melted

8 slices Bacon, cooked, crumbled

 

Beat eggs in small bowl on high speed until thick and lemon colored, about 5 minutes. Stir in remaining ingredients. Pour scant 1/4 C. batter onto medium-hot ungreased griddle. Cook until pancakes are dry around edges. Turn; cook other sides until golden brown.

Yield:

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Candied Bacon

Candied Bacon

1/2 C. firmly packed brown sugar

2 T. prepared mustard

1 lb. thick-cut pork bacon

 

In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, slowly cook bacon until crisp (you’ll probably have to do this in batches); drain the fat each time. Remove from pan and place cooked bacon onto paper towels. After draining fat for the last time, reduce heat to low and put all the bacon back into frying pan. Drizzle sugar and mustard mixture over bacon, tossing with a fork to coat. Remove from heat and transfer onto a serving platter.

 

Yield:

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Asparagus Eggs Benedict

Asparagus Eggs Benedict

1/3 pound fresh Asparagus

1/2 cup margarine

1/2 cup flour

3 cups milk

1 1/4 cups chicken broth

1/2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 pound sliced ham, cubed

5 hard cooked eggs, quartered

3-4 English muffins

 

Cut asparagus into 1/2 inch pieces. Cook in a small amount of water until it changes color (about 2 minutes), drain and set aside. Melt margarine in 3 quart sauce pan. Stir in flour until smooth. Add broth, salt, and cayenne pepper and bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Add cheese, stir until it melts. Add eggs, ham and asparagus. Heat through. Serve over toasted English muffins.

 

Toast with Prosciutto Scrambled Eggs, Peppers & Pickled Onions

Toast with Prosciutto Scrambled Eggs, Peppers & Pickled Onions

Toast with Prosciutto Scrambled Eggs, Peppers & Pickled Onions

1 red onion

1/2 C. red wine vinegar

1/2 C. white sugar

Pinch of salt

 

Peel the onion. Cut in half and slice into very thin half-moon shapes. Bring the vinegar and sugar to a boil, add the salt and pour over the red onions; set aside for at least 2 hours.

 

3 T. olive oil

2 yellow onions, peeled, sliced thin

2 thyme sprigs

1/4 tsp. sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

 

In a large saute pan, add the olive oil, onions and thyme sprig, and cook over medium-high heat until just starting to color, about 10 minutes. Reduce the heat and cook slowly until caramelized, stirring every few minutes to ensure even browning (add a small amount of water, if needed). Add the sugar and salt and continue until most of the moisture has cooked off and the onions are dark and flavorful.

 

3 T. finely minced Prosciutto

5 eggs

1 T. cream

1 T. butter

1/4 C. caramelized onions, chopped

1 tsp. oregano, minced

Seed bread, sliced thick, grilled as needed

Olive oil as needed

Piquillo peppers, sliced as needed

Micro basil as needed

Pickled Red Onions, as needed

 

In a sauté pan, cook prosciutto over medium heat until crunchy and browned, and set aside.  Combine the eggs and cream in a small bowl and whisk until frothy. When ready to serve, heat butter over medium-high in a small sauté pan. Add eggs and cook, folding eggs occasionally, until slightly cooked, about 2 minutes. Add the caramelized onions, prosciutto and oregano and stir to combine. Remove from the heat and keep warm.   Brush the bread with olive oil, then grill the bread on both sides, top with a little of the scrambled eggs, a few slices of the piquillo peppers, a few pickled red onions and micro basil.

 

Sunflower Garden Omelet

Sunflower Garden Omelet

5 large eggs

1/4 tsp.  salt, or to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 tsp. vegetable oil

2 T. raw sunflower seed kernels

1/4 C. red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 C. (about 2 large) mushrooms, thinly sliced

1/4 C. baby spinach leaves

1/4 C. (1/2 medium) tomato, sliced

3 T. minced fresh basil or mint

2-3 T. grated Parmesan cheese

 

Mix eggs, salt and pepper together in medium bowl. Place 10-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat, add 1 tsp.  oil. When hot, add sunflower kernels; toast, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until lightly browned. Lower temperature and pour egg mixture into skillet over the toasted kernels. Cook, gently lifting edges of omelet allowing eggs to flow underneath until eggs no longer flow. Layer onion, mushrooms, spinach and tomato on one half of the eggs. Sprinkle with 2 T. of herbs and cheese. Continue to cook about 3-4 minutes, until eggs are set and vegetables are warm.  From the side having no veggies, use a spatula to roll omelet over the vegetables.  Carefully slide omelet onto a platter. Cut in half before serving, sprinkle with remaining chopped herbs and cheese.

 

Yield:

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Spinach and Provolone Frittata

Spinach and Provolone Frittata

8 large eggs

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

Pinch nutmeg

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

8 C. fresh baby spinach

1/4 lb provolone cheese, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) pieces

 

Preheat the broiler. Whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper and nutmeg; set aside. Heat oil in a 10-inch (25-cm) cast-iron or ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 15 to 30 seconds, or until softened. Working in batches, add the spinach, tossing constantly and adding more spinach as it cooks down. The entire process should take 2 to 3 minutes. Spread the spinach in an even layer across the bottom of the pan. Lower the heat to medium and pour the egg mixture over the spinach; cook for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the egg is almost set. Sprinkle the cheese over the top and cook under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the egg is fully set.

 

Yield:

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Breakfast Fruit Julius

Breakfast Fruit Julius

1 quart chamomile or rose hip tea

1 can (46-oz) pineapple juice

2 ripe bananas

2 cups yogurt

1 quart orange juice

juice of 4 limes

 

Make tea and strain. Combine tea with pineapple juice. Blend bananas and yogurt together till smooth then add tea/pineapple mix, orange juice and lime juice. Serve cold.

 

Cheddar Apple Melt

Cheddar Apple Melt

1 each whole-wheat English muffin , toasted

2 tsp. jam or chutney

4 each thin apple slices

2 slices reduced-fat Cheddar cheese

 

Top English muffin with jam (or chutney), apple and cheese. Toast in a toaster oven or under the broiler until the cheese is melted.

 

 

Yield:

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Deep-Fried Chive Crêpes with Chevre, Scallions & Prosciutto

Deep-Fried Chive Crêpes with Chevre, Scallions & Prosciutto

Filling:

1/2 lb. fresh chevre (goat cheese)

1/3 C. heavy cream

3 oz prosciutto, minced

4 scallions, trimmed to include 1″ of green, minced

Freshly ground white pepper

2 tsp.  minced fresh chives

 

Crêpes:

3/4 C. unbleached flour

1/4 C. whole-wheat pastry flour

1 T. minced fresh chives

1/4 tsp.  freshly ground white pepper

1/4 tsp.  kosher salt

2 T. unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 large egg yolk

1 1/2 C. milk

 

20 chive crêpes (see above), cooked

2 large egg whites, beaten with 2 tsp.  water

1 C. very fine dry bread crumbs

2-4 C. vegetable oil for frying

Fresh edible flowers, herbs and/or watercress for garnish

 

To make crêpes: Combine both flours, chives, white pepper and salt in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the metal blade. Add melted butter, eggs and egg yolk; pulse twice. With motor running, slowly add milk. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and blend for 5 seconds more. Pour batter into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let stand in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Place butter in a nonstick or well-seasoned 6″ crêpe pan and set over high heat. When hot, add several T. of batter and quickly tilt the pan to coat the bottom. Reduce the heat to medium and cook until bottom is nicely browned, about 1 minute. (If you wish, you can lightly brown the other side at this point.) Turn out onto a tea towel; repeat until all batter is used. Add more butter to the pan only as necessary. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine chevre, cream, prosciutto, scallions, garlic, pepper and chives. Set aside. Arrange crêpes, browned sides up, on a large work surface. Place a scant T. of filling in the center of each crepe. Moisten outer edges with some egg white mixture. Fold in sides over filling. Then fold up bottom and fold down top to make a tight package about 2-1/2 to 3 inches square. Place crêpes, seam sides down, on a large platter. Repeat until all packages are made.

Dip each package into egg white mixture, roll in bread crumbs and place on a cake rack to dry. (crêpes can be assembled 1/2 day ahead and kept, tightly wrapped in plastic, in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before frying.) Just before serving, pour oil into a wok or deep-fryer to a depth of 1-1/2 to 2 inches. Heat until hot enough to quickly brown a cube of bread. Fry crepe packages, a few at a time, turning until browned on all sides, about 3 minutes. Remove and drain well; keep warm. Serve with a garnish of flowers, herbs and watercress.

 

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Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Frittata

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Frittata

6 large eggs

2 T. milk

1 T. chopped fresh dill

1 tsp. kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 T. chopped chives

2 oz. cream cheese, softened

2 oz. smoked salmon, chopped

2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

Serving suggestion: Crispy potatoes and mesclun salad

 

Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375 degrees F.  Whisk the eggs, milk, dill, salt, pepper, and chives together in a bowl. Using two spoons or your fingers, separate the cream cheese into small clumps. Fold the cream cheese and salmon into the egg mixture.  Heat the oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, and stir lightly to make sure the fillings are evenly arranged in the pan. Cook until the bottom is set, but not brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the top is set, about 8 minutes. Remove from the oven, cover, and set aside for 5 minutes.  Invert the frittata onto a large plate. Cut into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.

 

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Swiss Chard Tart

Swiss Chard Tart

2 lb. Swiss chard, washed and spun dry

4 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 Spanish onion, thinly sliced

2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

1/4 bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped to yield 1/8 C.

3 large eggs

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 C. freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

1 C. bread crumbs

 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Bring 8 quarts water to a rolling boil and add 2 T. salt. Roughly chop the Swiss chard, discarding the rough stems. Add the Swiss chard to the boiling water and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside. In a 12-inch saucepan, heat 3 T. olive oil over a medium flame until hot but not smoking. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until soft and golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add the Swiss chard and the parsley. Let cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and let cool. Meanwhile, break the eggs into a small bowl. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Add 3 T. of Parmigiano and, using a whisk, mix until the ingredients are well-blended. Add the egg mixture to the cooled Swiss chard and toss to combine. Using the remaining olive oil to lightly grease a shallow 9-inch round or oval baking dish. Dust the bottom of the baking dish with 1/2 C. bread crumbs. Carefully place the Swiss chard and egg mixture into the pan. Dust with the remaining Parmigiano and then the remaining bread crumbs. Bake until the top is golden brown, about 1 hour. Serve hot or room temperature.

 

Yield:

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Swiss Cheese Scramble Casserole

Swiss Cheese Scramble Casserole

1 lb. Bacon

1 C. Bread Cubes

23/4 C. Milk

12 Eggs

Salt and Pepper to taste

1/4 C. butter

1 lb. Swiss Cheese, shredded

4 tsp. Melted butter

1 C. Dry Bread crumbs

 

Cook bacon over medium-high heat until evenly brown; drain, crumble, and set aside.  In a large bowl combine bread cubes and milk.  Drain after 5 minutes.  In a separate bowl beat together eggs, salt & pepper, and milk drained from crumbs.  In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.  Add eggs and scramble until soft.  Do not fully cook.  Add soaked bread cubes and turn into greased 9×13” baking dish.  Sprinkle cheese on top of casserole.  In a small bowl stir together bread crumbs and melted butter.  Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese in the casserole dish and then top with the crumbled bacon.  Cover and refrigerate overnight. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and bake casserole for 40 minutes.

 

Winter Warmer

Winter Warmer

1 box powdered milk (8 qt. yield)
1 (16-oz) can Nestle Quik
1 (12-oz) jar of Coffee Mate
2 C. Sugar
6 level T. Cocoa

Put all  into a mixing bowl and mix thoroughly until completely blended. Store the mixture in a large, sealed container. When you’re ready to use, simply mix 1/3 cup of the dry mix with 2/3 cup hot water. Add your marshmallows, or whipped cream, and enjoy a cold weather warm-up.

 

Lemon Marmalade

Lemon Marmalade

lemon marm4 pounds lemons, scrubbed and cut into 8 wedges each

8 1/2 cups sugar (3 3/4 pounds)

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Ten 1/2-pint canning jars with lids, sterilized in boiling water

 

On Day 1, in a large nonreactive saucepan, cover half of the lemon wedges with 2 inches of water (about 8 cups) and let stand at room temperature overnight.   One Day 2, bring the lemon wedges to a boil. Simmer over moderate heat, stirring every 30 minutes, until the lemons are very tender and the liquid is reduced by half, about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Pour the lemon wedges into a fine sieve set over a large heatproof bowl; let cool completely. Wrap the sieve and bowl with plastic and let drain overnight at room temperature; discard the lemon wedges.   Also on Day 2, seed the remaining lemon wedges and slice them very thinly crosswise. In a large nonreactive saucepan, cover the lemon slices with 2 inches of water (about 8 cups) and bring to a boil. Simmer over moderately high heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain the lemon slices in a fine strainer; discard the cooking liquid.   Return the lemon slices to the saucepan and cover with 1 inch of water (about 4 cups). Bring to a boil and simmer over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the lemons are very tender and the liquid is slightly reduced, about 40 minutes; let stand at room temperature overnight.   On Day 3, add the strained lemon-wedge liquid to the slices in the saucepan. Stir in the sugar and lemon juice and bring to a boil. Simmer over moderate heat, without stirring, until the marmalade darkens slightly, about 30 minutes; skim off any foam as necessary. Test for doneness: Spoon 1 tablespoon of the marmalade onto a chilled plate and refrigerate until it is room temperature, about 3 minutes; the marmalade is ready when it thickens like jelly and a spoon leaves a trail when dragged through it. If not, continue simmering and testing every 10 minutes until it passes the test, up to 1 hour and 30 minutes.   Spoon the marmalade into the canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch of space at the top. Screw on the lids. Using canning tongs, lower the jars into a large pot of boiling water and boil for 15 minutes. Remove the jars with the tongs and let stand until the lids seal (they will look concave). Store the marmalade in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

Scrambled Egg Turnovers

Scrambled Egg Turnovers

eggover1 small zucchini, shredded

Salt and pepper

6 eggs

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 ounce sheet puff pastry, thawed and halved lengthwise

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

4 3/4-inch-thick tomato slices

 

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Place the zucchini in a bowl and season with salt; let stand for 5 minutes. Squeeze with paper towels to dry. In a medium bowl, beat together 5 eggs, the oregano and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper. In a small bowl, beat together the remaining egg with 1 tablespoon water.   In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Pour in the oregano-egg mixture and scramble for 1 minute; transfer to a plate.   On a work surface, brush the edges of the puff pastry with some egg wash. Working with 1 piece at a time, arrange one-quarter of the scrambled eggs on one side of the pastry and top with one-quarter each of the zucchini and cheese, then 1 tomato slice. Fold over the pastry and press the edges to seal; transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with more egg wash. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 3 more pastries.  Bake until the pastries are puffed and golden-brown, 20 to 25 minutes.

Sunrise Popovers

Sunrise Popovers

4 T. Vegetable Shortening

1 1/3 C. Unbleached Flour

1/2 tsp. Salt

2/3 C. Milk

2/3 C. Water

4 Eggs

1/2 C. Cheddar; Sharp, Shredded

 

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place eight 6oz custard cups on a large baking sheet. Spoon 1 1/2 tsp. of shortening into the bottom of each custard cup and set aside. Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl, and then gradually stir in the milk and water until well blended. Beat in the eggs, 1 at a time, beating until smooth after each addition. Fold in the cheddar cheese. Place the baking sheet with the custard C. in the preheated oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the shortening melts and the custard C. are hot. Fill the custard C. 1/2 to 2/3rds full with the batter. Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven, without opening the oven door until the popovers rise and turn golden brown. If not golden brown after 45 minutes, bake for an additional 5 minutes. Serve piping hot.

 

 

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Surprise-Inside French Toast

Surprise-Inside French Toast

6 (2 inch thick) slices French bread

1/4 C. ricotta cheese

1/4 C. cottage cheese — whipped

2 T. lowfat cream cheese

2 tsp. white sugar

2 tsp. vanilla extract

3 C. egg substitute

1/4 C. evaporated milk

Cut a pocket in each slice of bread. Open carefully

 

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, cottage cheese and cream cheese. Add the sugar and flavoring extract and beat until smooth. Spread the mixture evenly into each bread pocket. Beat together the egg substitutes and milk. Dip the slices of bread in the egg mixture. Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Coat with cooking spray. Cook the toast on each side for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown.

 

 

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Salami Scrambles

Salami Scrambles

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil, 1 turn of the pan in a slow stream

1/4 to 1/3 lb. salami, deli sliced or whole mini, Genoa, dry or sopressata, chopped

1 clove garlic, chopped

2 to 3 scallions, chopped, 1/4 onion may be substituted

1 plum tomato or 1 vine tomato, seeded and chopped or 3 T. chopped sun-dried tomato — your preference or, depending on what you have on hand

8 large eggs

4 oz. your choice of: Boursin garlic and herb cheese, crumbled, alouette garlic and herb cheese (4 rounded spoonfuls), crumbled feta cheese, crumbled herb goat cheese – again, whatever your preference and whichever you have on hand

Salt and pepper

Chopped parsley leaves, for garnish

Chopped or torn basil leaves, for garnish, optional

 

Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium to medium high heat. Add extra-virgin olive oil and salami. Cook salami until it renders some fat and starts to turn a deep burgundy color, 2 minutes. Add garlic and stir 30 seconds, then add scallions or onions and cook 1 or 2 more minutes. Add tomatoes and cook another minute. Scramble eggs with cheese, a little salt and a generous amount of pepper. Add eggs to pan and scramble it all up together. Serve scrambles with parsley and/or basil garnish.

 

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Pancakes with Orange Sauce

Pancakes with Orange Sauce

3/4 C. Whole Wheat Flour

1 1/2 tsp. Baking Powder

1 T. Honey

2 x stiffly beaten Egg Whites

1/2 C. All-purpose Flour

3/4 C. Skim Milk

1 tsp. Cooking oil

 

Pancake: Combine flours, baking powder, and 1/8 tsp. salt. Combine milk, honey and oil; add to dry ingredients. Stir just till moistened. Fold in egg whites. Spray a cold griddle with Pam. For each pancake, pour about 1/4 C. batter onto hot griddle. Cook till brown, turning when pancakes have bubbly surfaces. Serve with Orange Sauce.
Orange Sauce: Combine 2 T sugar and 1 T cornstarch. Stir in 3/4 c water and 2 T frozen orange juice concentrate. Cook and stir till thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir 2 minutes more. Stir in one 11-oz can mandarin orange sections, drained, and 1 T finely chopped walnuts. Keep warm.

 

Canadian Bacon Soufflé

Canadian Bacon Soufflé

3 T. Butter
3 T. Parmesan cheese, grated

6 Separated eggs
8oz. Room temp cream cheese
1 C. Grated cheddar cheese

1/2 C. Sour cream
3 T. Chopped pimento
1 T. Chopped chives

3/4 tsp. Dry mustard

3/4 lb. Canadian bacon, cut in bite-sized pieces

Butter bottom and sides of individual soufflé dishes and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Beat egg yolks until thick and lemon colored, about 5 minutes. Beat in cream cheese, cheddar cheese, sour cream, pimento, chives and mustard. Using clean, dry beaters, beat egg whites until stiff. Gently, fold into yolk mixture; fold in Canadian bacon. Turn soufflé into soufflé dishes. Bake at 350 degrees 25-30 minutes. Soufflé is done when a knife inserted in center comes out clean.

 

Breakfast Blossoms

Breakfast Blossoms

1 (12-oz.) package buttermilk biscuits

3/4 C. Preserves or Jams

1/4 tsp. cinnamon — optional

1/4 tsp. nutmeg — optional

 

Grease ten 2 1/2- or 3-inch muffin C. Separate dough into 10 biscuits. Separate each biscuit into 3 even sections or leaves. Stand 3 sections evenly around sides and bottom of each C., overlapping slightly. Press dough edges firmly together. Combine preserves, cinnamon, and nutmeg; place scant T. in center of each C.. Bake at 375 degrees F for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool slightly before removing from pan. Serve warm.

 

 

Yield:

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Cinnamon Buckwheat Pancakes

Cinnamon Buckwheat Pancakes

buckwheat-pancakes-21 1/2 T. honey

1 T. water

2 tsp. cornstarch

1 1/2 C. fresh strawberries, sliced, or frozen strawberries, thawed and sliced

1 C. buckwheat flour

1 T. sugar

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

pinch of salt

1 egg

3/4 C. reduced-fat buttermilk

 

To prepare the strawberries: In a saucepan, combine the honey, water, and cornstarch. Mix until blended. Add the strawberries. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, for about 4 minutes, or until the mixture bubbles. Remove from the heat. Cover to keep warm. To prepare the pancakes: Coat a nonstick griddle with vegetable oil spray and preheat over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir with a fork to combine. In another bowl, beat the egg with a fork until smooth. Add the buttermilk. Beat to blend. Add to the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined (don’t over mix). Ladle the batter in 1/4-C. dollops onto the hot griddle. (The batter is sticky, so some of it will stick to the ladle.) Cook for about 2 minutes, or until browned on the bottom. Flip and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, or until cooked through. Continue, adjusting the heat higher or lower as needed and coating the griddle with vegetable oil spray, until all the pancakes are cooked. Top with the reserved strawberries.

 

Yield: 8 servings

Calories: 93

Fat: 1g

Fiber: 3g

 

 

Baked Eggs and Mushrooms in Ham Crisps

Baked Eggs and Mushrooms in Ham Crisps

BakedHamCrisps3/4 crimini pound mushrooms finely chopped

1/4 C. finely chopped shallot

2 T. unsalted butter

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

2 T. creme fraiche or sour cream

1 T. finely chopped fresh tarragon leaves

12 slices Black Forest or Virginia ham (without holes; 10 oz.)

12 large eggs

Garnish: fresh tarragon leaves

a muffin tin with 12 (1/2-C.) muffin C.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Prepare mushrooms: Cook mushrooms and shallot in butter with salt and pepper in a large heavy skillet over moderately high heat, stirring, until mushrooms are tender and liquid they give off is evaporated, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in creme fraiche and tarragon. Assemble: Fit 1 slice of ham into each of 12 lightly oiled muffin C. (ends will stick up and hang over edges of C.). Divide mushrooms among C. and crack 1 egg into each. Bake in middle of oven until whites are cooked but yolks are still runny, about 15 minutes. Season eggs with salt and pepper and remove (with ham) from muffin C. carefully, using 2 spoons or small spatulas.

 

 

Yield:

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Smoked Salmon and Vegetable Cream Cheese Bagels

Smoked Salmon and Vegetable Cream Cheese Bagels

bagel2 sesame bagels

Vegetable Cream Cheese, recipe follows

4 slices smoked salmon

Slice the bagels in half horizontally and spread 1 T. of the vegetable cream cheese over the bottom half of each bagel. Arrange 2 slices of smoked salmon over the cream cheese and place the remaining bagel halves on top. Cut the bagels in half crosswise and serve.

Vegetable Cream Cheese:

16 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature

2 T. minced scallions, white and green parts

2 T. finely chopped carrot

2 T. finely chopped celery

2 T. finely chopped radish (2 radishes)

2 to 3 pinches kosher salt

1 pinch finely ground black pepper

Place the cream cheese, scallions, carrot, celery, radish, salt, and pepper in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and mix on low speed until blended.

Yields:

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Omelet of Three Cheese with Red, White and Green Onion Salsa

Omelet of Three Cheese with Red, White and Green Onion Salsa

Salsa:

1/4 C. each finely diced Red Onion, White Onion and Scallions (including 1” green)

1 Tomato, finely diced

1 T. minced Pickled Jalapeno Pepper

Juice of 1 Lime

1 T. minced Cilantro

Salt and pepper

 

Omelet:

2 rounded T. shredded Pepper Jack Cheese

2 rounded T. Parmesan Cheese

2 rounded T. Goat Cheese, crumbled

4 Large Eggs

4 tsp. Water

2 T. Butter

 

In small bowl mix together onions, tomato, jalapeno, lime juice and cilantro.  Season to taste with salt and pepper and set aside.  In a bowl combine cheeses.  In a separate bowl beat 2 eggs with 2 tsp. water and salt and pepper to taste.  Heat a well seasoned omelet pan over medium-high heat.  Add 1/2 to 1 T. butter and swirl to coat sides and bottom with melted butter.  Pour in egg mixture and shake the skillet over heat to spread eggs out evenly.  Once bottom begins to set, sprinkle with half of cheese mixture and rapidly jerk skillet towards you until omelet begins to roll over on itself.  Tilt the skillet with one hand, using a fork with the other to roll the omelet over once more.  Tilt out onto heated serving plate.  Repeat with remaining egg, butter and cheese to make a second omelet.  Garnish with salsa and serve.

 

 

 

Yield:

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Sweet Onion, Gruyere and Bacon Quiche

Sweet Onion, Gruyere and Bacon Quiche

quiche6 slices of bacon

1 medium onion, chopped

2 teaspoons olive oil

3 large eggs

3/4 cup cream

2 teaspoons cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup grated gruyere cheese

1 pie crust

 

Place oven rack in lower third of oven. Heat oven to 425F. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil. Add bacon and onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.

In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. Add cream, cornstarch, pepper, salt and nutmeg, then whisk to combine. Mix cheese into cooled onion-bacon mixture, then spoon the mixture into the pie shell in an even layer. Pour the egg mixture evenly on top. Bake the quiche for 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and set in the center. Transfer to a rack to cool before slicing.  Enjoy!

Chili Sweet Potato Hash with Fried Eggs and Fresh Tomato Salsa

Chili Sweet Potato Hash with Fried Eggs and Fresh Tomato Salsa

2515824841_e5d51dbee82 T. extra-virgin olive oil, 2 turns of the pan

1/2 lb. bulk breakfast sausage, such as maple sausage

1 medium sweet potato, scrubbed clean, cut in 1/2 lengthwise, thinly sliced into 1/2 moons

1 large red onion thinly sliced, divided

2 tsp. chili powder, 2/3 palm full

1 tsp. ground cumin, 1/3 palm full

2 tsp. ground coriander, 2/3 palm full

Salt and pepper

3 yellow vine ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced

1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped

2 to 3 T. chopped fresh cilantro, a palm full

1 lime, juiced

1/2 C. chopped flat-leaf parsley, a few handfuls

1 C. grated manchego or extra-sharp Cheddar

1 T. butter

4 large eggs

 

Preheat a large nonstick skillet over medium high heat with 2 turns of the pan of olive oil, about 2 T.. Add the breakfast sausage and break it up with the back of a wooden spoon into little chunks, brown sausage for 3 minutes. Add the sweet potatoes and 3/4 of the chopped red onion to the sausage, season with chili powder, cumin, coriander, salt and pepper, stir frequently and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender. While the hash is cooking, in a small bowl combine the tomatoes, jalapeno, and the remaining chopped red onion, cilantro, lime juice and a little salt and pepper.  Once the hash is cooked, add the chopped parsley, stir to combine and transfer hash to a serving platter. Sprinkle with the cheese and cover with aluminum foil, the cheese will melt while you make the fried eggs.  Wipe clean the skillet you made the hash in, return it to the cook top over medium-high heat and add the butter. Once the butter has melted, crack each of the eggs into the skillet, season with a little salt and pepper and fry to desired doneness. Eggs may, of course, be scrambled as well.  Transfer the fried eggs to the top of the hash, sprinkle with the fresh tomato salsa and serve.

 

 

 

Yield:

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Baked German Apple Pancake with Cherry Preserves

Baked German Apple Pancake with Cherry Preserves

german2 Golden Delicious apples, cored and sliced in the food processor

1/4 C. butter

1/4 C. packed brown sugar

1 C. whole milk

4 eggs

1 C. biscuit baking mix

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Confectioners’ sugar

1/2 C. jarred cherry preserves

 

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Coat a 9″ deep-dish pie plate with cooking spray. Place the apples, butter, and brown sugar in the dish. Stir to combine. Cover with plastic wrap, leaving a corner vent. Microwave on high power, stirring once, for 6 minutes, or until partially cooked. Meanwhile, measure the milk in a large measuring cup. Add the eggs. Beat with a fork until smooth. Add the baking mix and cinnamon. Mix just until no longer dry. Pour the batter over the apple mixture. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until puffed and golden. Dust with confectioners’ sugar. Dollop some of the cherry preserves on each serving.

 

Yield:

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Southwestern Style Sausage, Egg & Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Southwestern Style Sausage, Egg & Cheese Breakfast Casserole

18 eggs

1 small can green Ortega chilis

1 lb. cooked breakfast sausage

2 1/2 C. grated Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese

1 med. onion, diced

1 green pepper, diced

1 tsp. butter

 

Grease crock with butter. Starting with sausage, layer meat, chilis, onions, peppers and cheese in the crock, repeating the layering process until all ingredients are used and ending with a layer of cheese. Beat eggs, then pour over mixture in the slow cooker. Cover and turn on low. Cook for 7-8 hours.  Serve with sour cream or fresh salsa.

 

Yield:

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Crepes filled with Mushrooms, Spinach and Fresh Mozzarella

Crepes filled with Mushrooms, Spinach and Fresh Mozzarella

buckwheat+crepe+spinach1 tsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 1/2 pounds assorted fresh mushrooms (10 C.)
Kosher Salt
Freshly Ground Black Pepper
1 tsp. Minced Garlic
2 tsp. Balsamic Vinegar
2 C. Fresh Baby Spinach
2 oz fresh mozzarella cheese cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 Recipe Basic Crepes or eight 8-inch whole wheat tortillas
1/4 C. finely shredded Parmesan Cheese

Basic Crepes Recipe: In a blender, combine 2 eggs; 2/3 C. water; 1/2 C. low-fat milk (I use Soy); 1 tsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1 tsp. Herbs De Provence; 1/4 tsp. Kosher Salt; 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper. Add 1 C. Whole Wheat Flour. Cover and blend on low speed until combined; blend on high speed for 1 minute. Pour into a medium bowl; cover lightly and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. I used this time to make the filling. The batter should be the consistency of heavy cream. If too thick, thicken with a little water or milk. To make crepes, lightly coat an 8-inch nonstick skillet with flared sides with nonstick olive oil cooking spray. Preheat skillet over medium-low heat until a drop of water sizzles. Spoon in about 1/4 C. of the batter; lift and tilt the skillet to spread batter. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until browned on bottom and top looks dry. Carefully turn crepe; cook about 1 minute more or until the bottom is lightly browned but crepe is still pliable. Carefully invert onto waxed paper. Repeat with remaining batter. Makes 8 crepes.

In a very large skillet heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. add the mushrooms; cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Season to taste with kosher salt and pepper. Add the garlic; cook for 1 minute. Add the balsamic vinegar; cook and stir for 1 minute more. Add spinach, cheese, and basil; cook and stir for 1 to 2 minutes or until spinach is wilted. Preheat broiler. Divide mushroom mixture among crepes or tortillas, using about 1/2 C. for each and spooning along the centers. Roll up crepes or tortillas. Place in a broiler proof 13x9x2 inch baking pan. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Broil 3 to 4 inches from the heat for 1 to 2 minutes or just until the cheese starts to brown.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 381

Fat: 15g

Fiber: 8g