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Category: Starches

Curried Potatoes

Curried Potatoes

4 Medium Baking Potatoes, peeled and cut into 1” cubes
1 T. Olive Oil
1 Onion, chopped
1 T. Curry Powder

In saucepan bring water to a boil, and cook potatoes at a boil until fork tender, about 15 minutes. Sauté onions in olive oil until they soften. Stir in curry powder and cook one minute longer. Drain potatoes and add to skillet and cook, stirring, for about one minutes until potatoes are coated and all is warm.

Weeknight BBQ Beans

Weeknight BBQ Beans

2 slices bacon, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
1 can (15 to 19 oz.) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 to 19 oz.) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 C. bottled barbecue sauce
2 T. ketchup

In 2-quart saucepan, cook bacon pieces over medium heat about 6 minutes or until bacon is browned. With slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels to drain. Discard all but 1 T. bacon fat from pan. Add onion and cook 6 to 8 minutes or until tender and golden, stirring occasionally. Return bacon to saucepan. Stir in beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, and 1/4 C. water; heat to boiling over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium; cover and cook 5 minutes longer to blend flavors, stirring often.

Serving Size: 1 C.

Calories: 175
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 10g

Herb & Onion Wheat Biscuits

Herb & Onion Wheat Biscuits

Cooking Spray
1 C. Chopped Onion
3/4 cup fat-free milk
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. sugar
1/4 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. dried basil
1/4 cup chilled butter, cut into small pieces

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Heat a small skillet coated with cooking spray over medium heat. Add onion; cook 6 minutes or until tender, stirring frequently. Spoon onion into a blender. Add milk; process until smooth. Cool. Lightly spoon flours into dry measuring cups, and level with a knife. Combine flours and next 5 ingredients (flours through basil) in a large bowl; cut in the butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add onion mixture; stir just until moist. Turn dough out onto a heavily floured surface (dough will be sticky), and knead lightly 5 times with floured hands. Roll dough to a 1/2-inch thickness; cut into 10 biscuits with a 3-inch biscuit cutter. Place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 425 degrees for 12 minutes or until golden.

Warm Lentil & Ham Salad with Dijon Cream

Warm Lentil & Ham Salad with Dijon Cream

1 cup dried lentils
1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream
2 T. Dijon mustard
2 T. fat-free milk
1 T. white wine vinegar
1 tsp. chopped fresh or 1/4 tsp. dried thyme
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1-1/3 cups chopped cooked ham
3/4 cup chopped celery
3/4 cup chopped red onion

Place the lentils in a large saucepan, and cover with water to 2 inches above lentils. Bring lentils to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until tender. Drain well. Combine sour cream and next 5 ingredients (sour cream through pepper) in a large bowl. Add lentils, ham, celery, and onion, and toss well.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: about 1-1/3 cups

Calories: 291
Fat: 6.6g
Fiber: 15.8g

Rustic Olive Bread

Rustic Olive Bread

2 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
1/4 C. water
1/2 C. flour
1 T. flour
1/2 C. water
2 C. water
1 T. extra virgin olive oil
3 C. flour
3 C. whole wheat flour
2 tsp. salt
2 C. black oil-cured olives, pitted and chopped coarsely

Dissolve the yeast in 1/4 C. water and allow it to stand for approximately 5-10 minutes. Add 1/2 C. unbleached all-purpose flour and mix until the flour is absorbed. Sprinkle the remaining T. of flour over the starter, cover it with a cotton towel, and allow it to remain at room temperature until double in size (approximately 1 hour). (An indication that the starter has doubled in size is the disappearance of the T. of flour or the formation of large cracks on the surface of the starter). Cover the starter with 1/2 C. water to soften it. Add the remaining water (2 C.) and the extra-virgin olive oil (1 T.) to the softened starter, mixing well. Gradually add the unbleached all-purpose and whole wheat flours (3 C. each). Continue to mix until the dough begins to hold together. Knead the dough to a soft consistency. Add the salt (2 tsp.) and the coarsely chopped olives and continue to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Allow it to rise until it is at least double in size (approximately 1 – 2 hours). Gently turn the risen dough onto a flour dusted work surface. Divide the dough into two equal pieces and allow them to rest for 10 minutes. Dust a piece of canvas (untreated, 100% cotton), or a proofing board (lumber core plywood) with flour. C. your hands beneath one portion of dough and gently fold sections of it toward the center as you roll it on the work surface until it is round. Turn the dough over, gently roll it on the work surface, and place it on the canvas or board. Repeat with the second portion. Cover the dough with a cotton towel. Allow it to rise until it is nearly double (approximately 45 minutes). As the dough is rising, place a baking stone in the oven and set the temperature to 450 F. Allow the oven to heat for 30 minutes. Ease your hands beneath the dough and transfer each portion to a lightly floured sheet of parchment paper. Slide a bakers peel beneath the parchment paper. Slide the parchment paper from the peel onto the baking stone. Quickly spray the oven walls using a plastic spray bottle filled with cold water. Spray again in 3 additional intervals within the first 15 minutes. Lower the oven temperature to 425 F. Allow the dough to bake until it is deep brown in color (approximately 30 more minutes). After 15 – 20 minutes, check the oven to be certain that the dough is not browning too quickly. If this is the case, cover the loaf with aluminum foil. Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a rack. Note: This bread may also be baked in a 10-inch springform pan. Lightly oil the springform pan. After shaping the dough, place it in the pan and cover it with a cotton towel. Let the dough rise until nearly double (45 minutes ? – 1 hour). When the dough has nearly doubled in size, remove the cloth and place the springform pan in the oven. Spray the oven walls in the intervals indicated above, and allow the dough to bake until it is deep brown in color. Remove the springform pan from the oven, allow it to cool for 5 minutes, then open the pan and remove the bread. Allow the bread to cool on a rack.

Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp Fried Rice

2 T. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
2 T. rice wine or sake
1 T. low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp. dark sesame oil
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 T. vegetable oil
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 cups chopped green onions
1 T. minced peeled fresh ginger
5 cups cooked long-grain rice, chilled
1 pound medium shrimp, cooked, peeled, and coarsely chopped
1 (10-ounce) package frozen green peas, thawed

Fried rice is an extremely versatile dish that can be made with all kinds of meat, seafood, and vegetables. In this and other fried-rice recipes, the cooked rice must be chilled to prevent its grains from sticking. To chill, spread the cooked rice on a jelly-roll pan; cover and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight. Combine first 6 ingredients in a bowl; set aside. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add eggs; stir-fry 30 seconds or until soft-scrambled. Add onions and ginger; stir-fry 1 minute. Add rice, shrimp, and peas; stir-fry 3 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Add broth mixture. Toss gently to coat.

Yield: 6 servings
Serving size: 1-1/3 cups

Calories: 380
Fat: 7.9g
FIber: 1.7g

Sweet Potato and Turnip Swirl

Sweet Potato and Turnip Swirl

1/2 lb. turnips, peeled and cubed
2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 tsp. minced fresh ginger root
1 T. reduced fat margarine
1 pkg. Artificial Sweetener
2 tsp. orange zest

In a medium saucepan over medium high heat, cover the turnips and sweet potatoes with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook until soft, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain; transfer to a food processor and puree. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the ginger, margarine, sugar, and orange peel. Allow margarine to melt and mix ingredients together well. Add the puree and swirl together. Serve warm.

Scalloped Potato with Cheese

Scalloped Potato with Cheese

1 garlic clove, halved
Butter-flavored cooking spray
6 medium peeled red potatoes, cut into 1/8-inch-thick slices
2 T. margarine, melted
1/2 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/2 cup (2 oz.) shredded Gruyere cheese
1 cup skim milk

This recipe is versatile in every way: use cheddar, Swiss, or provolone cheese, russet potatoes in place of red, and whatever kind of milk you have on hand. Pair it with roasted chicken or pork. Preheat oven to 425. Rub an 11 x 7-inch baking dish with cut sides of garlic halves; discard garlic. Coat dish with cooking spray. Arrange half of potato slices in dish; drizzle with 1 T. margarine. Sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. salt and half of pepper; top with 1/4 cup cheese. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients. Bring milk to a boil over low heat in a small saucepan; pour over potato mixture. Bake, uncovered, at 425&176; for 40 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Yield: 7 servings
Serving size: 1 cup

Calories: 228
Fat: 6.7 g
Fiber: 3.2 g

Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread

Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread

4 C. Whole Wheat Flour
2 C. All Purpose Flour
1 tsp. Baking Soda
1/2 tsp. Sugar
1 C. Skim Milk
1 tsp. Lemon Juice

Mix milk and lemon. Combine dry ingredients. Add milk and lemon mixture (buttermilk may be used instead). On floured board knead dough for no more than a minute. Shape dough into a circle with a height of about two inches. Place on lightly oiled baking sheet. With (sharp) floured knife, cut an X nearly halfway through the dough. Bake about 40 minutes in 400F degrees degree oven. Dough should sound hollow when tapped with knuckles or handle of spoon. Place loaf on wire rack and let rest at least an hour before slicing.

Scalloped Garlic Potatoes

Scalloped Garlic Potatoes

4 whole heads Garlic
2 tsp. Olive Oil
2 1/3 C. minced Shallots (about 15 medium)
2 T. Balsamic Vinegar
2 1/2 C. 2% milk
2 T. Flour
2 T. chopped Thyme
Pepper
2 lb. Yukon Gold Potatoes, sliced thin
1/2 C. grated Pecorino Romano Cheese

Preheat oven to 350. Remove white papery skins from outside garlic heads, but do not separate or peel cloves. Wrap each head separately in foil and bake at 350 for 1 hour; allow to cool 10 minutes. Separate cloves and squeeze to extract pulp (you should have about 1/4 C.) and discard skins. Turn oven up to 375. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add shallots, sauté 3 minutes or until softened. Stir in vinegar and cook until liquid is almost evaporated, about a minute. Remove from heat. Place garlic, milk, flour, thyme and pepper in a food processor and blend until smooth. Arrange 1/3 of potatoes in a 13×9” dish coating with cooking spray. Spread half the shallots over the potatoes; repeat with remaining potatoes and shallots, ending with potatoes. Pour milk mixture evenly over potatoes. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 30 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese and bake 15 minutes, or until cheese is golden. Allow to stand 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Size: 1 C.

Calories: 163
Fat: 4.7g
Fiber: 3.5g

Creamy Parmesan Orzo

Creamy Parmesan Orzo

1 T. butter
1 C. orzo
1 1/4 C. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 1/4 C. water
1/4 C. (1 oz.) grated fresh Parmesan cheese
2 T. chopped fresh basil
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
4 tsp. pine nuts, toasted

Heat butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add orzo, and cook 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in broth and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer until liquid is absorbed and orzo is done (about 15 minutes). Remove from heat; stir in cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle with the pine nuts. Serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 1/2 C.

Calories: 236
Fat: 6.4g
Fiber: 1.7g

Savory Onion Tart

Savory Onion Tart

1/2 tsp. dry yeast
1/2 tsp. sugar
3/4 C. warm water (100 to 110 degrees)
2-1/4 C. all-purpose flour, divided
1 tsp. kosher or sea salt, divided
Cooking spray
1-1/2 tsp. olive oil
6 C. thinly sliced onion
2 T. half-and-half
1-1/2 T. chopped fresh thyme, divided
1/4 tsp. black pepper

Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water in a large bowl; let stand 5 minutes. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring C., and level with a knife. Stir in 2 C. flour and 1/2 tsp. salt until smooth. Turn dough out onto a floured surface. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 5 minutes), and add enough of remaining flour, 1 T. at a time, to prevent dough from sticking to hands (dough will feel tacky). Place dough in a large bowl coated with cooking spray, turning to coat top. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees), free from drafts, 1 hour or until doubled in size. (Press two fingers into dough. If an indentation remains, the dough has risen enough.) Punch the dough down; cover and let rest for 5 minutes. Roll the dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Fit dough into a 10-inch round removable-bottom tart pan. Press dough against bottom and sides of pan. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Heat oil a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the onion; cover and cook 20 minutes or until golden brown, stirring frequently. Remove from heat; stir in 1/2 tsp. salt, half-and-half, and 1 T. thyme. Spread mixture over dough in pan. Bake at 425 degrees for 25 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Sprinkle with 1-1/2 tsp. thyme and pepper. Let stand 5 minutes. Cut into 6 wedges.

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 238
Fat: 2.7g
Fiber: 3.7g

Roasted Pepper Tarts

Roasted Pepper Tarts

3 red peppers
6 sheets phyllo pastry (30cm x 20cm)
1 egg white, beaten
handful of fresh basil leaves
1 tsp. vegetable bouillon stock powder
2 T. tomato passata
salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 black olives to garnish

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Cut the peppers in half, remove the seeds and place face down on non-stick baking sheet. Roast in the top of the oven for 20–30 minutes until soft. Remove from the oven and place inside a plastic food bag. Seal the bag and leave to cool. Peel the cooled peppers and roughly chop. Take 6 non-stick individual tartlet tins, 10cm in diameter. In each tin, place 6 individual pastry squares in layers, placing the squares at slight angles to each other and brushing with beaten egg white in between each layer. Bake in the oven for 8–10 minutes until crisp and golden. Allow to cool. To make the filling, in a mixing bowl combine the chopped peppers with the remaining ingredients, except the olives, and season well. Spoon the mixture into the baked shells and return to the oven to warm through. Garnish each tart with half a black olive. Serve warm with a variety of freshly prepared salads.

Pesto Potato Bake

Pesto Potato Bake

1 T. slivered almonds, toasted
2 garlic cloves
1 C. basil leaves
1 C. parsley sprigs
2 T. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
2 T. (1/2 ounce) finely grated fresh Romano cheese
2 T. lemon juice
4 tsp. olive oil, divided
1/2 tsp. salt
Cooking spray
6 C. (1/8-inch-thick) sliced red potatoes (about 2 pounds), divided
2 T. (1/2 ounce) finely grated fresh Romano cheese, divided
1/2 C. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Drop the almonds and garlic through food chute with food processor on, and process until minced. Add basil and parsley; process until finely chopped. Add 2 T. broth, 2 T. cheese, lemon juice, 2 tsp. oil, and salt; process until smooth. Spread 2 tsp. oil in an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Arrange 2 C. potatoes in bottom of baking dish; spread 3 T. basil mixture over potatoes, and sprinkle with 2 tsp. cheese. Repeat the procedure with 2 C. potatoes, 3 T. basil mixture, and 2 tsp. cheese. Top with 2 C. potatoes. Microwave 1/2 C. broth at high 1-1/2 minutes or until very hot. Pour over potatoes; spread remaining basil mixture over potatoes. Cover with foil; bake at 425 degrees for 45 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle with 2 tsp. cheese, and bake an additional 15 minutes or until tender.

Yield: 6 servings
Serving size: 3/4 C.

Calories: 175
Fat: 5.3 g
Fiber: 3.3 g

Crisp Potato Hash Browns

Crisp Potato Hash Browns

4 C. shredded peeled baking potato (about 1 1/4 lb.)
1/4 C. thinly sliced green onions
1/4 C. chopped green bell pepper
2 T. cornstarch
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. onion powder
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 475°. Place potato in a large bowl, and cover with cold water. Let stand 5 minutes. Drain and rinse potato. Dry thoroughly in a salad spinner, or pat dry with paper towels. Combine potato, onions, and bell pepper in bowl. Add the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and onion powder; toss well to coat. Line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil; coat thoroughly with cooking spray. Place a 3-inch biscuit cutter on prepared baking sheet. Fill biscuit cutter with 1/2 C. potato mixture (do not pack). Carefully remove cutter, leaving potato patties intact. Repeat the procedure with remaining potato mixture. Coat tops of potato patties with cooking spray. Bake at 475° for 20 minutes. Turn and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Yield: 8 servings
Serving size: 1 hash brown

Calories: 97
Fat: 0.7g
Fiber: 1.7g

Pine Nut & Rice Pilaf

Pine Nut & Rice Pilaf

2 tsp. olive oil
1-1/2 cups chopped onion
4 garlic cloves, minced
5 cups hot cooked rice
1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
Basil sprig (optional)

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté 3 minutes or until tender. Combine onion mixture, rice, and remaining ingredients in a bowl; toss well. Garnish with a basil sprig, if desired.

Yield: 6 servings
Serving size: 1 cup

Calories: 289
Fat: 9.3 g
FIber: 2.2 g

Onion Bread Pudding

Onion Bread Pudding

1 Vidalia or other sweet onion, cut into 1/4-inch slices
2 cups 2 percent reduced-fat milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
8 cups cubed French bread (about 8 oz.)
3/4 cup (3 oz.) shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese, divided
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion slices (keep slices intact); cook 3 minutes on each side or until browned. Combine milk, salt, thyme, pepper, and eggs in a large bowl, stirring with a whisk. Add the bread cubes and 1/2 cup cheese; toss mixture well. Place the bread mixture in an 8-inch square baking dish coated with cooking spray. Arrange onion slices on top of bread mixture. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup cheese. Bake at 425 degrees 25 minutes or until set and golden.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: about 1 1/2 cups

Calories: 364
Fat: 12.2g
Fiber: 3.4g

Noodle Kugel with Mushrooms

Noodle Kugel with Mushrooms

8oz. Wide Egg Noodles
2 tsp. Olive Oil
1 Onion, finely chopped
8oz. sliced Mushrooms
3 lg. Eggs
1/2 C. Cottage Cheese
1 T. sherry
1/2 tsp. Thyme
1/2 C. chopped Walnuts

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and prepare a 9 x 13 baking dish with cooking spray. Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and place in a bowl and keep warm. Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet; add the onion and mushrooms. Sauté until the onion is tender and the mushrooms have released and reabsorbed their juices, about 8 minutes; remove from heat and set aside. Combine eggs, cottage cheese, sherry, and thyme in food processor and pulse until smooth. Add both onion and egg mixture to the noodles and toss. Spread in the baking dish, sprinkle evenly with walnuts, and cover with foil. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the foil, and bake until the noodles are lightly browned around the edges, about 15 minutes more.

Serving Size: 1 1/2 C.

Calories: 276
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g

Never Fail Corn Bread

Never Fail Corn Bread

1 C. low fat buttermilk
3/4 C. corn meal
1/4 C. flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. sugar
1/4 C. egg substitute

Blend or mix well. Pour in a number 5 skillet that has been sprayed with vegetable oil spray and heated (very hot). Bake at 400° for 20 minutes. 8 servings, 79 calories, 1g fat, 1g fiber

Mushroom & Chive Pilaf

Mushroom & Chive Pilaf

1 T. olive oil
1/2 cup minced fresh onion
1 garlic clove, minced
2 cups low-salt chicken broth
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. white pepper
1 cup uncooked basmati rice
1/4 cup chopped chives
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
1 (8-ounce) package mushrooms, chopped

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté 2 minutes. Add broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; add rice. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 35 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes. Stir in chives, green onions, and mushrooms.

Yield: 6 servings
Serving size: 1 cup

Calories: 161
Fat: 3.2 g
Fiber: 1.2 g

Macaroni Au Gratin

Macaroni Au Gratin

8oz Penne
15 oz. ricotta cheese
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1 T. of mayo
2 tsp. of Worcestershire sauce/soy sauce
1 tsp. of mustard
1.5 tsp. of white pepper (black pepper is fine)
1 large egg
1/2 chicken bouillon cube
1/4 C. milk
salt to taste
6 oz. mozzarella cheese
3 oz. Parmesan cheese/cheddar cheese
1 small clove of garlic

Add the penne to 3 1/2 to 4 C. of salted boiling water. Cook the penne until al dente ( do not cook the pasta completely, the oven will cook it through). While the pasta is cooking preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. In a separate bowl or baking dish (I’m using a 1.5 quart baking dish) beat the egg then add in the milk, mustard, a pinch of salt, pepper, mashed bouillon cube, mashed and chopped garlic, onion powder, mozzarella and ricotta cheese. Mix, mix and mix. Set aside. Once the pasta is ready. Drain then toss into your mixing bowl/baking dish of mixed ingredients. Make sure each penne is coated. This is when you want to add to baking dish, if you haven’t already. Then sprinkle the parmesan cheese on top. Bake until the cheese is melted and slightly brown. Remove from oven immediately. Let rest a few minutes.

Mediterranean Peppers & Potatoes

Mediterranean Peppers & Potatoes

2 tsp. olive oil
1/2 C. chopped onion
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 C. minced seeded plum tomato
1-1/2 C. cubed peeled baking potato
1 C. (1-inch) pieces red bell pepper
1 C. (1-inch) pieces yellow bell pepper
1 C. (1-inch) pieces orange bell pepper
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 (10-1/2-ounce) can low-salt chicken broth
1/3 C. coarsely chopped fresh basil
1/4 C. sliced pimento-stuffed olives

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion; sauté 10 minutes. Add garlic, and sauté 1 minute. Add tomato, and cook 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add potato, bell peppers, salt, black pepper, and broth; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until potato is tender, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in basil and olives. Let stand, covered, 20 minutes.

YIELD: 5 servings
Serving size: 1 C.

Calories: 105
Fat: 3.3 g
Fiber: 3.2 g

Macaroni & Cheese

Macaroni & Cheese

12 oz. uncooked macaroni, elbow-type
1/2 C. fat-free sour cream
12 oz. fat-free evaporated milk
8 oz. low-fat shredded chedder cheese
1 T. dijon mustard
1/4 tsp. table salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
2 T. dried bread crumbs
2 T. grated parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350F. Cook pasta according to package directions without added fat or salt. Drain, and transfer to a large bowl. While pasta is still hot, stir in sour cream. Set aside. Heat milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until tiny bubbles appear just around the edges (known as scalding). Reduce heat to low, add cheese and simmer until cheese melts, stirring constantly with a wire whisk, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in mustard, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Add cheese mixture to pasta, and mix well. Transfer to a 4-quart casserole dish. Combine bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over pasta. Bake until top is golden. About 30 minutes.

Lentils with Wine Glazed Winter Vegetables

Lentils with Wine Glazed Winter Vegetables

3 C. water
1-1/2 C. dried lentils
1 tsp. salt, divided
1 bay leaf
1-1/2 tsp. olive oil
2 C. chopped onion
1-1/2 C. chopped peeled celeriac (celery root)
1 C. diced parsnip
1 C. diced carrot
1 T. minced fresh or 1 tsp. dried tarragon, divided
1 T. tomato paste
1 garlic clove, minced
2/3 C. dry red wine
2 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 T. butter
1/4 tsp. black pepper

Combine water, lentils, 1/2 tsp. salt, and bay leaf in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 25 minutes. Remove lentils from heat, and set aside. Heat olive oil in a medium cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, celeriac, parsnip, carrot, and 1-1/2 tsp. tarragon, and sauté 10 minutes or until browned. Stir in 1/2 tsp. salt, tomato paste, and garlic; cook mixture 1 minute. Stir in wine, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Stir in mustard. Add lentil mixture, and cook 2 minutes. Remove from heat; discard bay leaf, and stir in butter, 1-1/2 tsp. tarragon, and pepper.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 1-1/2 C.

Calories: 416
Fat: 6 g
FIber: 12.7 g

Lentils with Garlic & Rosemary

Lentils with Garlic & Rosemary

5 C. water
3 C. chopped onion
2 C. diced cooked ham
1 C. diced carrot
1 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed
3/4 tsp. rubbed sage
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 pound dried lentils
1 (14-1/4-oz.) can fat-free beef broth
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 bay leaf
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Combine first 11 ingredients in an electric slow cooker. Cover with lid, and cook on high-heat setting for 3 hours or until lentils are tender. Discard bay leaf. Garnish with parsley, if desired.

Yield: 11 servings
Serving size: 1 C.

Calories: 196
Fat: 2.2g
Fiber: 6g

Green Onion Pancakes

Green Onion Pancakes

3-1/4 C. all-purpose flour, divided
1-1/2 tsp. salt
1 C. cold water
2 tsp. dark sesame oil
3/4 C. chopped green onions
8 tsp. peanut oil, divided

Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring C.; level with a knife. Combine 3 C. flour and salt in a small bowl. Add water; stir until soft dough forms. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic (about 6 minutes); add enough of the remaining flour, 1 T. at a time, to prevent the dough from sticking to hands. Place dough in a large bowl, and cover with a damp towel. Let stand 25 minutes. Roll the dough into a 20 x 15-inch ectangle. Brush sesame oil over dough, and sprinkle with onions. Roll up dough lengthwise. Cut the dough roll crosswise into 8 pieces. Roll each dough portion, cut side up, into a 6-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Heat 1 tsp. peanut oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pancake; cook 2 minutes on each side. Repeat the procedure with the remaining pancakes.

Yield: 8 servings
Serving size: 1 pancake

Calories: 238
Fat: 6.1 g
Fiber: 1.8 g

Fresh Corn Custards

Fresh Corn Custards

3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6 ears), divided
2 cups 2% reduced-fat milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
4 large eggs, lightly beaten
Cooking spray
Fresh chives (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bring 2 cups corn and milk to a simmer in a large saucepan over medium heat; cook 20 minutes, and cool. Pour corn mixture into a blender or food processor; process until smooth. Strain mixture through a sieve over a large bowl. Discard solids. Add salt, pepper, and eggs to corn mixture; stir well with a whisk. Divide remaining 1 cup corn evenly among 6 (6-ounce) ramekins generously coated with cooking spray, and top each with 1/3 cup corn mixture. Place the ramekins in a 13 x 9 — inch baking pan, and add hot water to pan to a depth of 1 inch. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until the center barely moves when the ramekin is touched. Remove the ramekins from pan, and cool for 5 minutes on a wire rack. Invert custards. Garnish with fresh chives, if desired.

Yield: 6 servings
Serving size: 1 custard

Calories: 181
Fat: 6.1g
Fiber: 1g

Flat Bread

Flat Bread

1 package active yeast
1/2 tsp. sugar
1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. coarse salt
1 T. fresh thyme leaves
3/4 cup water (might need more)
1 tsp. oil

In the bowl of a food processor combine the yeast, sugar, flour, salt and thyme. Pulse to combine. Add the water in a steady stream until the dough begins to form a ball, turn it on to a board and knead with the heel of your hand until the dough is smooth and elastic. Coat a bowl with oil. Place dough in bowl, and cover with a damp cloth. Put in a warm spot to rise until double in size, about 1 hour. When the dough has doubled in size, punch the dough, scrape it onto the counter and knead it lightly into a smooth ball. Cut into 20 pieces and with a rolling pin roll out to form very flat 5 to 6-inch circles. Preheat a stove top grill pan over medium high. Do not oil. Place bread on hot grill and cook without touching it until you see bubbles on the surface, about 1 to 2 minutes. Turn and continue to cook 1 to 2 minutes more or until bread has puffed up. Serve immediately.

Calories: 42
Fat: 0.36g
Fiber: 0.4g

Curried Fried Rice

Curried Fried Rice

3 cups cold cooked rice, long-grain white or brown
4 tsp. peanut oil
8 scallions, thinly sliced
2 tsp. curry powder
2 carrots, diced and steamed
1 cup steamed chopped green beans
1/2 cup diced lean ham

Place the rice in a shallow bowl; with moistened fingers separate the grains. In a large nonstick saucepan, heat the oil. Add the scallions and cook, stirring as needed until softened, 2-3 minutes. Add the curry and cook, stirring constantly until just fragrant (do not burn), about 30 seconds. Add the carrots, green beans, and ham; cook tossing lightly, about 1 minute. Stir in the rice and 2 T. water; tossing gently to combine, until the rice is thoroughly coated. Serve at once.

Cheesy Onion Muffins

Cheesy Onion Muffins

1 1/2 cups reduced fat baking mix
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 T. grated Parmesan cheese
1 T. dried minced onion
2 T. snipped fresh parsley
1 egg white
3/4 cup skim milk

In a medium mixing bowl stir together biscuit mix, flour, Parmesan cheese, dried onion and parsley. Beat egg whites with milk and stir into dry ingredients until just moistened. Fill muffin cups half full (should have been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray first). Bake at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes. You should be able to stick a toothpick in the center and have it come out clean.

12 servings: each: Calories 89

Carrot & Bean Croquettes

Carrot & Bean Croquettes

1 medium onion, diced
1 C. canned pinto beans, mashed
1 1/2 C. raw carrot, grated
1/2 C. fresh breadcrumbs
1/4 tsp. dried sage
Salt and pepper

Combine all the ingredients & mix well. Form into 1 1/2″ balls. Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet at 375 for 15-20 minutes. Serve with your favorite sauce.

Papas de Caserio (Farm Hand Potatoes)

Papas de Caserio (Farm Hand Potatoes)

2 T. olive oil
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 C. chopped onion
1 T. all-purpose flour
4 C. peeled baking potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 C. water
3/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 C. minced fresh parsley

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add garlic, and sauté 1 minute or until lightly browned. Remove garlic from pan. Add onion to pan; sauté 3 minutes or until tender. Stir in flour; cook 1 minute. Stir in garlic, potatoes, water, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Remove from heat. Stir in parsley.

Yield: 5 servings
Serving size: 1 C.

Calories: 176
Fat: 5.7g
Fiber: 2.8g

Caramelized Onion & Potato Pancakes

Caramelized Onion & Potato Pancakes

2 baking potatoes, baked and chilled
nonstick cooking spray
1 red onion, julienned
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1/2 C. corn kernels
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tsp. fresh oregano, chopped
2 egg whites
freshly ground black pepper

Peel the cold potatoes carefully with a paring knife and gently grate them with the coarse side of a cheese grater and set aside. Lightly spray a sauté pan with non-stick cooking spray over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions and peppers for about 5 minutes until the onions begin to brown. Add the corn, garlic and herbs and cook 2 to 3 minutes longer. Set aside to cool. Place the potatoes, vegetables, egg whites, salt and pepper in a medium size bowl and gently fold together. Taste, adjust the seasoning, and form into eight 2″ patties. Place a non-stick griddle, skillet or lightly sprayed sauté pan over medium heat and toast each side of the cakes golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes.

2 pancakes Calories 123 Dietary Fiber 3 g

Braised Lentils

Braised Lentils

3 whole cloves
1 small onion, peeled
2 cups water
1-1/2 cups petite green lentils
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 T. sherry
2 T. extra-virgin olive oil
2 tsp. minced peeled fresh ginger
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 bay leaf
1 (14-1/2-ounce) can vegetable broth
1/4 tsp. sea salt

Insert cloves into onion. Combine onion, water, and next 9 ingredients (water through broth) in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 30 minutes or until lentils are tender. Remove onion and bay leaf with a slotted spoon; discard. Stir in salt; cook 2 minutes.

Black Bean Salad w/ Feta & Red Peppers

Black Bean Salad w/ Feta & Red Peppers

Two 16-ounce cans black beans, drained and rinsed
2 medium red bell peppers, cut into short thin strips
1/2 cup natural low-fat vinaigrette
1/2 cup fresh parsley
1/2 to 2/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

Combine the beans, red bell peppers, vinaigrette, and parsley in a mixing bowl and toss well. Divide the salad among individual plates or shallow bowls. Top each serving with some of the feta cheese.

Black Bean Cornbread Squares

Black Bean Cornbread Squares

3 cups Bisquick Reduced Fat Baking Mix
1 cup cornmeal
3/4 cup cooked black beans
3/4 cup lowfat cheddar cheese
1 cup skim milk
1 cup egg beaters, or egg whites
2 T. vegetable oil
1/2 tsp. chili powder
1/8 tsp. ground cumin
1 1/2 cups tomatoes, drained & chopped
1 4 oz. can chopped green chilies, drained

Heat oven to 375° Grease bottom only of square pan, 9x9x2 inches; dust with flour or baking mix. Mix all ingredients; beat 30 strokes. Spread in pan. Bake 50 to 55 minutes or until toothpick 0inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes. Cut into squares. Serve immediately. 16 servings

Black Bean Cakes

Black Bean Cakes

2 15oz. Cans Black Beans, rinsed and drained
1 Vidalia Onion, minded
2/3 C. Breadcrumbs
1 Clove Garlic, minced
1 T. Basil
1 tsp. Oregano
1 tsp. Cumin
2 Eggs
Pepper to taste

Place black beans in a bowl and mash with a fork. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Divide into 6-8 equal portions and shape into patties. Place patties on a medium-hot grill for several minutes per side. Serve with Salsa

BBQ Bean Salad

BBQ Bean Salad

1 (3lb.) can pinto beans, drained & rinsed
1 (15oz.) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 sweet red pepper, chopped
1 sweet green peppers, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 C. cider vinegar
1/4 C. ketchup
1/4 C. olive oil
1/4 C. packed brown sugar
1 T. Dijon mustard
1 T. Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp. chili powder
3/4 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. hot pepper sauce
1 clove garlic, crushed

Place beans, corn, peppers & onion in a large salad bowl. In a saucepan, combine remaining ingredients & bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover& simmer for 10 minutes. Cool slightly and pour over bean mixture. Toss to coat. Serve at room temperature.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild Rice Pilaf

1/2 C. Long Grain Rice
1/2 C. Wild Rice
2 C. Chicken Stock
1 Shallot or 2 Green Onions, chopped
1 Clove Garlic, minced
Pepper, to taste

Additional seasonings as desired – dill, parsley, sage, cilantro, etc. Heat pot with tight fitting lid. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add seasonings and herbs and stir. Add stock and bring to a boil. Add the rice, stir and bring back up to the boil. Cover, turn heat to low, and cook for about 25 minutes. Do not remove the lid while cooking. Turn off heat and let stand 10 minutes, still covered. Fluff with fork and serve.

Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls

Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls

1 Envelope Dry Yeast
1/4 C. Warm Water
3/4 C. Skim Milk
2 Egg Whites
3 T. Butter
1 T. Sugar
1/4 tsp. Salt
1 1/2 C. Flour
1/2 C. Whole Wheat Flour
Nonstick Cooking Spray

In large bowl combine yeast and water. Let stand about five minutes; stir gently until yeast dissolves. Add milk, egg, butter, sugar and salt and beat well. Mix in the two flours. Scrape dough the dough and mix until a ball forms. Cover with clean dish towel and rest in a warm draft free place and let ruse until double, about an hour. Using muffin pans, lightly coat 12 C. with cooking spray. Stir the dough down and divide it evenly between the 12 C. with a spoon, filling them about half full. Cover loosely with the dish towel and let rise another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned. You can also add 1 1/2 tsp. basil, oregano, sage, or thyme to the dry ingredients, and / or sprinkle tops with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, if desired.