Spicy Egg Drop Ramen

Spicy Egg Drop Ramen

Spicy Egg Drop Ramen

1 C. chicken-flavored instant ramen noodles in a cup

2 C. water

1 egg

1 teaspoon your favorite chili sauce or hot sauce

 

Heat the water to a boil in a microwave or electric kettle. Fill the ramen cup. as instructed and cover for 90 seconds. Meanwhile, crack the egg into a small bowl, and scramble it well with a fork. Slowly drizzle the egg into the cup of noodles, stirring with the fork to mix in the egg. Cover the cup again and let it sit for 3 minutes. Stir in the hot sauce.

ZBD Thin Elvis Oatmeal

ZBD Thin Elvis Oatmeal

ZBD Thin Elvis Oatmeal

 

1 cup water

1/2 cup quick cooking oats

1 T. peanut butter

1 banana

 

Bring water to a boil. Stir in the oats and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Just before the oats are finished, stir in the peanut butter, banana, and any other additional sweetener.

 

Calories: 302

Fat: 10g

Fiber: 7g

Shallot Jam

Shallot Jam

1 T. olive oil

5 medium shallots, peeled and sliced thin

1/2 C. chicken broth

1/4 C. balsamic vinegar

2 heaping T. apricot jam or preserves

salt and pepper

 

Heat 1 T. of olive oil in a medium to large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the shallots, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, until they begin to get soft and the bottom of the pan begins to brown. Add the 1/2 C. chicken broth to the shallots, scraping the brown bits off the bottom of the pan while the broth reduces. Add the balsamic vinegar, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for about 5 more minutes. Add the apricot jam and stir to combine. The sauce will thicken but should still be easily stirred.

Ramen Salad with Peanut Salad & Edamame

Ramen Salad with Peanut Salad & Edamame

Ramen Salad with Peanut Salad & Edamame

1 package ramen noodles

2 C. water

2 tsp. peanut sauce (can be found in the Asian section of grocery stores)

1/4 C. shelled edamame (soybeans)

Optional: 1 tsp. chopped peanuts, sliced green onions

 

Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the ramen noodles and cook until al dente (about 5 minutes). Drain the noodles in a colander and return them to the pot. Add the peanut sauce to the pot and toss to combine. Place the sauced noodles on a plate or in a bowl. Top with the shelled edamame (and peanuts and green onions, if using).

ZBD Mango Muscle Up Smoothie

ZBD Mango Muscle Up Smoothie

ZBD Mango Muscle Up Smoothie

 

1 Scoop Vegetarian Protein Powder

1/2 C. unsweetened nondairy milk (not soy)

2/3 C. Frozen Mango Chunks

1/2 T. Almond Butter

Water, to blend, if needed

 

Combine in blender and blend until smooth.

 

Calories: 224

Fat: 5g

Fiber: 3g

Orzo Butternut Squash Soup with Sautéed Zucchini and Yellow Squash, Topped With Crispy Prosciutto

Orzo Butternut Squash Soup with Sautéed Zucchini and Yellow Squash, Topped With Crispy Prosciutto

1 box Orzo

3 T. olive oil

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1/2 medium onion onions, chopped

5 C. butternut squash, diced

4 C. chicken broth

2 C. water

1 C. zucchini, diced

1 C. yellow squash, diced

4 ounces prosciutto, sliced into thin strips

to taste salt

to taste freshly ground black pepper

 

HEAT olive oil in a large skillet; add onions and garlic and cook for 5 minutes. ADD the butternut squash and allow it to carmelize. Cover mixture with chicken broth and simmer for 10 minutes. Pour the soup mixture into a blender and blend well. SAUTE zucchini and squash in a separate skillet. FRY prosciutto in another skillet and set aside. RETURN soup to a large pot, mix in the sauteed zucchini and squash. Add the water and bring to a boil. ADD Orzo to the pot and cook according to the package directions, stirring frequently. TRANSFER to serving bowls and top with crispy prosciutto before serving

Smoked Salmon + Poached Eggs on Toast

Smoked Salmon + Poached Eggs on Toast

Smoked Salmon + Poached Eggs on Toast

2 slices of bread toasted

1/2 large avocado smashed

1/4 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice

Pinch of kosher salt and cracked black pepper

3.5 oz smoked salmon

2 eggs, poached *see notes

Splash of Kikkoman soy sauce optional

1 tsp. thinly sliced scallions

Microgreens optional

 

OR

 

2 slices of bread

1/2 large avocado

1/4 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice

Pinch of kosher salt and cracked black pepper

3.5 oz smoked salmon

2 eggs, poached

2 thin slices of tomato

1 tsp. Everything Bagel Seasoning

Microgreens

 

In a small bowl, smash the avocado. Add the lemon juice and a pinch of salt; mix well and set aside.

Poach your eggs (see notes) and, when they are sitting in the ice bath, toast your bread. Once your bread is toasted, spread the avocado on both slices and add the smoked salmon to each slice. Carefully transfer the poached eggs to their respective toasts. Hit with a splash of Kikkoman soy sauce and some cracked pepper; garnish with scallions and microgreens.  OR  Place slice of tomato on each toast, then hit the toasts with some everything bagel seasoning. Garnish with microgreens.

ZBD Blueberry Dazzler Smoothie

ZBD Blueberry Dazzler Smoothie

ZBD Blueberry Dazzler Smoothie

 

1 Scoop Vegetarian Protein Powder

1/2 C. unsweetened nondairy milk (not soy)

1/2 C. Frozen Blueberries

1/2 T. Almond Butter

Water, to blend, if needed

 

Combine in blender and blend until smooth.

 

Calories: 232

Fat: 6g

Fiber: 3g

Soy-Lime Chicken and Shrimp Kebabs

Soy-Lime Chicken and Shrimp Kebabs

1 lb shrimp

1 lb chicken breast, cubed

1/2 large white onion, cut into skewerable sections (optional)

1 each red, yellow, and orange pepper, also cut into skewerable sections (optional)

 

Soy-Lime Marinade

2 Tsp. olive oil

1/2 C. lime juice

6 Tsp. soy sauce

1 Tsp. garlic powder

1 Tsp. fresh ground pepper

1 Tsp. basil

2 tsp. kosher salt

 

De-shell, de-vein, and otherwise clean the shrimp. Fire up your charcoal grill, and get it ready. If you’re using a gas grill, you can skip this step, but charcoal enthusiasts will need some time to get things prepped for phenomenal grilling. Place your clean, happy shrimp into a large shallow bowl with the cubed chicken breasts. Pour the olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, and all of the spices over the shrimp and chicken, and stir it all around to make sure that everything is well-mixed. Take a big whiff, because it smells quite good, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the grill is ready to go. Or for a minimum of 30 minutes. If you wish to make a veggie skewer or two, cut up your peppers and onion while the meat marinates. I also recommend making a small pot of rice, for a delicious side of fried rice that you can make while everything’s grilling. When the grill is ready to go (or when you’ve decided that the chicken and shrimp have been marinating long enough), slide everything onto skewers, and throw them on the barbie! If your chicken cubes are small enough (I usually try to go for 1″ cubes), it doesn’t matter whether the shrimp and chicken are on separate skewers — the cook times will be fairly close. Put the veggies (if you’re making them) on their own skewer, though. Because grilling is such a mysterious art (or maybe I’m just saying this because it completely confuses me sometimes), your cook times may be different from mine. On a humid, moderately warm evening in St. Louis, it took about 15 minutes to grill 2 lb. of meat and two skewers of veggies. Moral of the story: cook the meat until it is done (shrimp should be a bit pink, chicken should not be pink at all…that’s not confusing!) but not charred. Unless you like charred, of course.

Lightly Smoked Salmon with Orange & Rhubarb Salad

Lightly Smoked Salmon with Orange & Rhubarb Salad

Lightly Smoked Salmon with Orange & Rhubarb Salad

1 tsp.  juniper berry

1 tsp black peppercorn

2 lightly smoked salmon fillets (if you can’t find them, normal salmon is fine)

2 tsp olive oil

 

1 orange

2 sticks rhubarb, shredded into thin batons

large handful watercress

3 T. extra virgin olive oil

 

To start the salad, slice the top and bottom off the orange, then cut away all the zest and pith. Holding over a bowl, cut the segments free by slicing between the membranes, catching all the juices and segments. Add the rhubarb to the bowl, then allow to stand for 15 mins. Meanwhile, roughly grind the juniper berries and peppercorns using a pestle and mortar. Put the salmon on a baking sheet, rub the flesh with oil, then spread on the crushed juniper mix. Heat the grill to medium and cook the salmon for 6-7 mins, making sure the rub doesn’t burn. To finish the salad, add watercress and extra virgin olive oil to the rhubarb and orange, give it a good stir, then serve with the salmon.

Steamed Vegetable Ribbons

Steamed Vegetable Ribbons

Steamed Vegetable Ribbons

 

2 large carrots, peeled

3 small zucchini

2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

2 tsp. lemon juice, or to taste

1/4 tsp. salt, or to taste

Freshly ground pepper to taste

 

With a swivel vegetable peeler, shave carrots lengthwise into wide ribbons. Repeat with zucchini, shaving long, wide strips from all sides until you reach the seedy core. Discard the core. Bring 2 inches of water to a boil in a large saucepan fitted with a steamer basket. Add the carrots; cover and steam for 2 minutes. Place the zucchini over the carrots; cover and steam until the vegetables are just tender, 2 to 3 minutes more. Transfer the vegetables to a large bowl. Toss with oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Tahini Goddess Dressing

Tahini Goddess Dressing

1 1/3 C. Canola Oil

2/3 C. Water

6 T. Tahini

6 T. Cider Vinegar (Heinze)

4 T. Lemon Juice (RealLemon)

5 T. Soy Sauce (Kikkoman)

6 cloves Garlic

1/8 tsp. Xanthan gum

2 T. Sesame seeds, Toasted

2 T. Parsley

2 T. Chives

 

In a blender combine first eight ingredients and mix on high for about two minutes. You will see a change in the texture of the mixture as the Xanthan gum starts to work, the result is a very smooth, creamy appearance. Add the final three ingredients and blend on low, just until mixed.

Sweet and Crunchy Spinach Salad

Sweet and Crunchy Spinach Salad

Sweet and Crunchy Spinach Salad

2 bunches spinach, well rinsed & dried, torn

1/2 lb. bacon, cut in pieces, fried & crumbled

2 red apples, cut in pieces (Matchsticks for a more elegant presentation)

1/2 c. golden raisins

1/2 c. dry roasted peanuts, unsalted

1 sm jicama, cut in pieces (Matchsticks for a more elegant presentation)

 

Add ingredients to salad bowl.  Use favorite salad bottled dressing or to with a sweet vinaigrette.

French Lentils with Shallots and Brandy

French Lentils with Shallots and Brandy

French Lentils with Shallots and Brandy

1 cup green French lentils, rinsed and picked through
3/4 tsp. salt
2 T. butter or margarine
1/3 cup finely chopped shallots
2 T. brandy
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

 

In 2-quart saucepan, combine lentils, 1/2 tsp. salt, and enough water to cover by 2 inches; heat to boiling over high heat. Reduce heat; cover and simmer until lentils are just tender, 20 to 25 minutes. Drain. In same clean saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in brandy and cook until almost all liquid has evaporated, about 1 minute longer. Stir in lentils, remaining 1/4 tsp. salt, and pepper and heat through. Stir in parsley. Transfer to serving bowl.

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 162

Fat: 4 g,

Veggie Potato Pancakes

Veggie Potato Pancakes

1 C. shredded zucchini

1 C. shredded carrots

1/2 C. shredded onion

3 C. shredded potatoes (1 large russet potato will roughly equal one C.)

1 egg

1 1/2 – 2 C. flour

1 t. garlic powder

1 t. Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Oil, for frying

 

Combine all of the ingredients, except oil, in a large bowl. Use only 1 1/2 C. flour to start. Combine with your hands and see if the mixture will hold its shape. If it seems loose, add the remaining flour. Using about a 1/3 C. of potato mixture at a time, form into pancakes of desired thickness. Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook no more than 4 potato pancakes at a time. Cook about 3 minutes per side, until each side is browned and crispy. *Note: If you made thick potato pancakes, you might need to bake them an additional 15 minutes or so at 350 degrees. This actually works perfectly for the stolen moments method. Just refrigerate or freeze after browning in oil, and then finish the baking process just before eating.

Sweet and Spicy Canned Onion Marmalade

Sweet and Spicy Canned Onion Marmalade

Sweet and Spicy Canned Onion Marmalade

2 pounds onions preferably sweet or a mix of sweet and regular

1 C. apple juice

1/2 C. cider vinegar

2 teaspoons fresh minced garlic

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon ground mustard

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

3 T. Low or No Sugar Needed pectin – flex batch equals 1 box

1/2 teaspoon butter or oil optional to reduce foaming, but I always use it

1 C. honey

1/2 C. brown sugar

 

Prepare water bath canner, 6 half pint jars & lids, keeping warm until needed. Cut ends off onions and peel; slice in half and cut each in half again, lengthwise (or in thirds if onions are big). Turn halves and cut into 1/4 inch slices widthwise. Place slices in an 8-quart measuring C. – you should have 6 C. of onion slices. Add prepared onions, apple juice, vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, mustard and red pepper flakes to an 8-quart stockpot. Gradually stir in pectin and then add butter if using. Bring to a boil that can’t be stirred down over high heat, stirring constantly. Add honey and sugar; return to a full boil and let boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat (skim foam if needed). Ladle hot marmalade into prepared half pint jars one at a time, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims, attach lids, and place in canner. Place lid on canner and bring to a gentle, steady boil – process for 10 minutes, maintaining steady boil the entire time. Turn off heat and let jars cool in canner 5 minutes before removing jars to a towel lined surface to cool for 24 hours. Check lids for seal before labeling and storing in a cool, dark place (with rings removed). Notes: *You don’t have to can this – it will keep for 2-3 months in the refrigerator.

 

  • Use as a glaze for meats like chicken, ham and pork, as well as seafood (my favorite is shrimp).
  • Top grilled steak, pork, chicken and seafood.
  • Add on top of Boursin cheese or cream cheese as an appetizer.
  • Mix into sour cream as a dip for crackers, pretzels, or chips.
Broccoli or Cauliflower with a Soy-Lemon Dressing

Broccoli or Cauliflower with a Soy-Lemon Dressing

Broccoli or Cauliflower with a Soy-Lemon Dressing

 

2 pounds broccoli or cauliflower, about 2 bunches

 

Soy-Lemon Dressing (mixed together):

3 T. to ¼ cup soy sauce

2 T. fresh lemon juice

1 1/2 T. minced garlic

1 1/2 T. sugar

 

Using a sharp paring knife, peel the tough skin from the broccoli stems and cut away the stem ends. Cut off the florets and cut the peeled stems on the diagonal into 1 1/2-inch-thick sections. Separate the larger florets, so all are approximately the same size. If cooking cauliflower, remove any leaves and break or cut into florets, about 1 1/2 inches wide. Arrange the broccoli or cauliflower in a steamer tray or on a plate set on a rack. Fill a wok or pot with several inches of water and heat until boiling. Place the vegetable over the boiling water and steam 8 to 10 minutes or until tender. Drain any water from the broccoli or cauliflower. Put the vegetable in a serving bowl, add the Dressing, toss lightly, and serve.

Taco Mac

Taco Mac

1 lb. ground beef

1/2 onion, diced

1 T. chili powder

1 T. cumin

2 t. garlic powder

1 t. salt

1/2 lb. elbow macaroni

1 1/2 C. beef stock or broth

1 8 oz. can tomato sauce

1 14.5 oz. can crushed tomatoes

2 C. frozen corn

1 C. shredded cheese

 

Brown ground beef and onion. Drain. Stir in seasonings. Add noodles, stock, tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low. Cover skillet and simmer, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender, about 15 – 20 minutes. Stir in corn until heated through. Top with cheese and serve.

DIY Flavored Extracts

DIY Flavored Extracts

DIY Flavored Extracts

Vanilla Extract (single 4oz bottle)

  • 3 whole vanilla beans
  • Vodka (You can also use bourbon)

Mint Extract (4oz)

  • ½ C. mint leaves
  • Vodka

Orange Extract (4oz)

  • 1 large navel orange
  • Vodka

Lemon Extract (4oz)

  • 1 large lemon
  • Vodka

To make Vanilla Extract:

  1. Cut your vanilla beans in half, then split open each half to expose the vanilla seeds on the inside of the pod.
  2. Place cut vanilla beans inside your glass bottle.
  3. Add vodka, filling up to the neck of the bottle.
  4. Seal tightly and store bottle in a cool, dry place.
  5. Every few days, tilt your bottle upside down to gently mix the liquid inside.
  6. After 5-6 weeks, you have extract! (If you leave in your vanilla beans, when you start running low, just add more vodka and wait a little.)

To make Mint Extract:

  1. Stuff mint leaves into your glass bottle.
  2. Using a chopstick, skewer, or other poking device, lightly bruise/crush the leaves inside the bottle.
  3. Add vodka, filling up to the neck of the bottle.
  4. Every few days, tilt your bottle upside down to gently mix the liquid inside.
  5. After 5-6 weeks, you have extract! (I’m not sure if, like vanilla extract, you can just leave the mint leaves inside. Since it’s leafy plant matter which disintegrates more easily, it may be a good idea to take it out. My leaves went from a vibrant green in the beginning to kind of a dull brown by the end so I took them out just to be safe – I poured my mint extract into another container through a sieve and discarded the mint leaves, then poured the filtered extract back into the bottle.)

To make Orange Extract:

  1. Peel thin strips of zest from ½ of your orange.
  2. Place zest into your glass bottle.
  3. Add vodka, filling up to the neck of the bottle.
  4. Every few days, tilt your bottle upside down to gently mix the liquid inside.
  5. After 5-6 weeks, you have extract! (I think with citrus peels the acid (and alcohol bath), it’s probably safe to leave the peels inside the bottle like a vanilla bean for re-fill purposes. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this, take it out!)

To make Lemon Extract:

  1. Peel thin strips of zest from your lemon.
  2. Place zest into your glass bottle.
  3. Add vodka, filling up to the neck of the bottle.
  4. Every few days, tilt your bottle upside down to gently mix the liquid inside.
  5. After 5-6 weeks, you have extract!
Gingered Autumn Fruit Crisp

Gingered Autumn Fruit Crisp

3 T. confectioners’ sugar

2 tsp. cornstarch

2 C. (about 1 pound) sliced anjou or bartlett pears

2 C. (about 1 pound) sliced mcintosh apples

2 C. (about 1 pound) sliced red or purple plums

2 T. finely chopped crystallized ginger

2 tsp. vanilla extract

 

3/4 C. old-fashioned oats

2 T. brown sugar

1/2 tsp. apple pie spice

2 T. cold better butter or trans-fat free spread

 

Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Coat an 8″ x 8″ baking dish with vegetable oil spray. Set aside. To prepare the fruit: In a bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar and cornstarch. Stir until well blended. Add the pears, apples, plums, ginger, and vanilla. Toss to coat evenly. Transfer to the reserved dish. Set aside. To prepare the topping: Wipe the bowl dry with a paper towel. Add the oats, brown sugar, and apple pie spice. Toss with a fork to mix. With the fork, break the Better Butter or spread into small chunks. Add to the mixture. Use the fork to cut into smaller pieces that blend with the oats mixture. Scatter over the reserved fruit. Bake for about 55 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

 

Yield: 9 servings

Calories: 152

Fat: 2.5g

Fiber: 4g

 

 

 

 

 

Copycat Sizzler Malibu Chicken

Copycat Sizzler Malibu Chicken

Copycat Sizzler Malibu Chicken

1 C. all-purpose flour

1 C. Italian style Panko bread crumbs

1 egg

1 T. vegetable oil

4 thin sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts

Olive oil, about 3 T. or enough to generously coat skillet

Salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

4 slices deli ham

4 slices Swiss cheese

 

1/3 C. mayonnaise

1 T. Dijon mustard, coarse ground or regular

1 teaspoon yellow mustard

2 teaspoons honey

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grab 3 pie plates or similar wide, shallow dishes. Place flour in one, breadcrumbs in another, and whisk egg with vegetable oil in the 3rd dish. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. One by one, dip the pieces into flour, then into the egg/oil mixture, then lastly into the Panko breadcrumbs. Coat an oven-proof skillet with a generous amount of olive oil and place over medium heat. As you bread each piece of chicken, transfer it to the pan. Allow to cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Season it with a little salt and fresh ground black pepper while it cooks. You don’t want to cook the chicken through at this point. Once browned, layer the chicken with a piece of ham and then top with the Swiss cheese. Transfer pan to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, till chicken is thoroughly cooked through to the center. Serve with dipping sauce. For the Dipping Sauce: While the chicken is baking, combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Ham & Cheese Breakfast Strudels

Ham & Cheese Breakfast Strudels

Ham & Cheese Breakfast Strudels

3 T. butter, divided

2 T. all-purpose flour

1 C. whole milk

1/3 C. shredded Swiss cheese

2 T. grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 tsp. salt

5 large eggs, lightly beaten

1/4 pound ground fully cooked ham (about 3/4 cup)

6 sheets phyllo dough (14×9-inch size)

1/2 C. butter, melted

1/4 C. dry breadcrumbs

 

2 T. grated Parmesan cheese

2 T. minced fresh parsley

 

In a small saucepan, melt 2 T. butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in cheeses and salt. In a large nonstick skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Add eggs to pan; cook and stir until almost set. Stir in ham and cheese sauce, heat through. Remove from heat. Preheat oven to 375°. Place 1 sheet of phyllo dough on a work surface. (Keep remaining phyllo covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out.) Brush with melted butter. Sprinkle with 2 tsp. breadcrumbs. Fold in half lengthwise; brush again with butter. Spoon 1/2 C. filling onto phyllo about 2 in. from a short side. Fold side and edges over filling and roll up. Brush with butter. Repeat with remaining phyllo, butter, breadcrumbs and filling. Place on a greased baking sheet; sprinkle each with 1 tsp. cheese and 1 tsp. parsley. Bake 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve immediately. Freeze option: After topping strudels with cheese and parsley, freeze unbaked on a waxed paper-lined baking sheet until firm. Transfer to a freezer container; return to freezer. To use, bake strudels as directed, increasing time to 30-35 minutes or until heated through and golden brown.

Apple-Swiss Turkey Sandwiches

Apple-Swiss Turkey Sandwiches

3 T. honey mustard

8 slices multi-grain bread, toasted

2 medium unpeeled apples, thinly sliced

8 slices reduced-fat Swiss cheese

1/2 C. thinly sliced cucumber

8 ounces thinly sliced cooked turkey breast

 

Lightly spread mustard on each slice of toast; set aside. Place apples on a microwave-safe plate and microwave, uncovered, on high for 1 minute or until slightly softened. Arrange half of the apple slices and cheese on 4 slices of toast. Top with cucumber and turkey. Add remaining apple and cheese slices. Top with remaining toast, mustard side down. Yield: 4 servings.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza

Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza

Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza

2  Flatbread  or pizza rounds

1/2 C. prepared alfredo sauce

2 C. fully cooked grilled chicken strips

5 slices  Canadian Bacon

1 1/4 C. mozzarella cheese shredded

fresh parsley for garnish

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Assemble pizza by layering on alfredo, chicken, Canadian bacon, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley. Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is melty. Slice and enjoy!

Cherry-Vanilla Jam Recipe

Cherry-Vanilla Jam Recipe

Cherry-Vanilla Jam Recipe

2 pounds cherries, pitted

2 scant C. sugar

1/4 tsp. vanilla powder

 

Wash, stem, and pit the cherries. If desired, chop them down more finely.  In a large nonreactive pot, combine the cherries, sugar and vanilla powder. Macerate for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.  Put the pot over medium heat. Heat the macerated fruit, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved. Turn the heat to high, and cook, stirring only to prevent scorching, until ​the gel point is reached.  Pour the jam into clean, heated jars and process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude.

Mini Maple Cinnamon Rolls

Mini Maple Cinnamon Rolls

2/3 C. milk

1/3 C. maple syrup (pure syrup is best)

1/3 C. butter, softened

1 egg

3/4 tsp salt

3 C. bread flour

1 pkg. active dry yeast (2 1/2 tsp)

 

Filling:

1/2 C. packed brown sugar

2 T.P bread flour

4 tsp ground cinnamon

6 T.P cold butter

 

Maple Icing:

1 C. confectioner’s sugar

3 T.P butter, melted

3 T.P maple syrup

1-2 tsp milk

 

Dissolve yeast in 2/3 C. warm milk. Add the rest of the dough ingredients. Knead until dough is springy. Place in a greased bowl (turning once to grease top), cover with a light towel, and place in warm area until doubled in bulk. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into two 12×7 rectangles. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour and cinnamon. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle half of the sugar over each rectangle. Roll up jelly-roll style, starting from a long side. Pinch seam to seal. Cut each roll into 12 slices. Place cut side down in one greased 13x9x2 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 20 minutes. Bake at 375 F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. In a small mixing bowl, combine confectioner’s sugar, butter, maple syrup, and enough milk to achieve desired consistency. Spread over warm rolls.

Canning Tomato Paste

Canning Tomato Paste

Canning Tomato Paste

 

3 gallons quartered Roma or other paste tomatoes

1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped

1 bay leaf

½ tsp. kosher salt

6 tsp. bottled lemon juice, divided

 

In a large pot set over high heat, combine the tomatoes, red bell pepper, bay leaf, and salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are very soft. Using a potato masher, press the tomatoes down and release their juices while they are cooking. Using a food mill, pass the mixture through to puree. Discard the seeds and skins. Transfer the puree to an uncovered slow cooker set on low.  Cook the tomatoes for 8 hours, stirring hourly. As it thickens and reduces, check more frequently to prevent scorching. Prepare a hot water bath. Place the jars in it to keep warm. Wash the lids and rings in hot, soapy water, and set aside. To each jar, add 3/4 tsp. of lemon juice. Ladle the hot paste into the prepared jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Use a nonmetallic utensil to release any air bubbles. Wipe the rims clean and seal with the lids and rings. Process the jars in a hot water bath for 45 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the jars rest in the water bath for 10 minutes. Carefully remove the jars from the hot water canner. Set aside to cool for 12 hours. Check the lids for proper seals (see here). Remove the rings, wipe the jars, label and date them, and transfer to a cupboard or pantry. Refrigerate any jars that don’t seal properly, and use within 3 weeks. Properly sealed jars will last in the cupboard for 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3 weeks.

Sticky Coconut Chicken

Sticky Coconut Chicken

6 to 8 boned, skinned chicken thighs (1 1/4 to 1 1/2 lb. total)

3/4 C. canned coconut milk (stir before measuring)

1 T. minced fresh ginger

1 tsp. fresh-ground pepper

1 tsp. hot chili flakes

Chili glaze

4 or 5 green onions, ends trimmed, cut lengthwise into thin slivers (including tops)

 

Rinse chicken and pat dry. In a large bowl, mix coconut milk, ginger, pepper, and hot chili flakes. Add chicken and mix; cover airtight and chill at least 1 hour or up to 1 day. Lift chicken from bowl, reserving marinade; pull thighs open and lay flat on a lightly oiled barbecue grill over a solid bed of hot coals or high heat on a gas grill (you can hold your hand at grill level only 2 to 3 seconds); close lid on gas grill. Cook, turning thighs as needed to brown on both sides, until meat is no longer pink in center of thickest part (cut to test), 10 to 12 minutes, basting frequently with remaining marinade (use it all). Transfer thighs to a warm platter and pour the chili glaze evenly over meat; garnish platter with green onions.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 147

Fat: 7.9g

Fiber: 0g

Grapefruit and Vanilla Bean Jam

Grapefruit and Vanilla Bean Jam

Grapefruit and Vanilla Bean Jam

5-6 large pink grapefruits about 5-6 pounds, you can also use Ruby Red grapefruit

1 1/2 C. sugar or more to taste

2 vanilla beans

 

Remove the rind from the grapefruits. Thickly slice the fruit and then cut or break apart into pieces. Discard any seeds. Puree the fruit in a food processor or blender, and then pour it into a heavy bottomed pot, along with the sugar. Cut the vanilla beans in half and then make a slit down the length of each piece. Pry the beans open with the tip of your knife and scrape out the seeds, adding them to the pot with the grapefruit. Throw the pods right in, too. Bring the pot up to a boil, then turn down and boil for about 40-50 minutes. You won’t have to tend it much at first, but toward the end you’ll need to keep an eye on it and stir often to prevent scorching. It will be greatly reduced, darker, and thicker at about the 40 minute mark. The longer you boil it the thicker the jam will be, but I found about 45 minutes was sufficient. Remove the vanilla bean pods and discard. Pour the hot jam into jam jars and let cool before covering and refrigerating. Use within 2 months, or freeze.

Cuban Chicken Salad

Cuban Chicken Salad

2 chicken breasts, pounded thin

1 head romaine lettuce

1 can black beans

1 C. frozen corn (cooked)

1/4 C. green onions chopped

1 small red pepper, sliced thin

 

Grill chicken until thoroughly cooked, slice into strips. Chop lettuce and divide on to four plates. Heat black beans and corn and spoon on top of the lettuce. Add sliced pepper and onion. Top with sliced chicken.

 

Dressing:

 

2 T. lime juice

1/4 C. cilantro

1 1/2 tsp. sugar

1 tsp. minced garlic

1/2 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

 

1/3 C. olive oil

Put all ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth. Pour over prepared salad.

For a fun twist add blue corn chips. For those who are not a fan of cilantro this salad also tastes great topped with salsa or ranch dressing.

Drunken Rose Hips Jam

Drunken Rose Hips Jam

Drunken Rose Hips Jam

 

1/2 pound rosehips

2 C. red wine

3/4 C. water

1 1/2 C. sugar

 

Days 1-3. Rinse the rosehips well. Cut the dark spot off the end of each and halve them. Remove the inner seeds and hairs using a small, sturdy spoon. In a large bowl, cover the rosehips with the wine. Refrigerate, covered, for 3 days.  Prepare a hot water bath. Place the jars in it to keep warm. Wash the lids and rings in hot, soapy water, and set aside. Strain the rosehips. In a small saucepan set over medium-high heat, combine the water and strained rosehips. Cover the pan and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the rosehips are tender. Run the rosehips and their cooking water through the fine screen of a food mill. Measure and return the pulp to the saucepan. There should be about 1 1/2 C. of pulp. Add the sugar, adjusting the amount, as needed, to equal the pulp amount.  Over medium-high heat, bring the jam to a full, rolling boil. Turn off the heat. Skim off any foam. Ladle the jam into the prepared jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Use a nonmetallic utensil to remove any air bubbles. Wipe the rims clean and seal with the lids and rings. Process the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the jars rest in the water bath for 10 minutes. Carefully remove the jars from the hot water canner. Set aside to cool for 12 hours.  Check the lids for proper seals. Remove the rings, wipe the jars, label, and date them, and transfer to cupboard or pantry. Refrigerate any jars that don’t seal properly and use within 3 weeks. Properly sealed jars will last in the cupboard for 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate, and consume within 3 weeks.

Biscuit-Topped Beef Casserole Recipe

Biscuit-Topped Beef Casserole Recipe

1/2 pound lean ground beef

1/4 C. chopped onion

1/2 C. water

1/2 C. tomato sauce

1/4 C. tomato paste

1/8 tsp. pepper

1 C. frozen mixed vegetables, thawed

1/2 C. shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided

1 tube (6 ounces) refrigerated flaky buttermilk biscuits

1 tsp. butter, melted

1/4 tsp. dried oregano

 

In a small saucepan, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the water, tomato sauce, tomato paste and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.  Remove from the heat; stir in vegetables and 1/4 C. cheese. Transfer to a 1-qt. baking dish coated with cooking spray (dish will be full).  Separate each biscuit horizontally in half; arrange around edge of dish. Brush with butter; sprinkle with oregano. Sprinkle remaining cheese over beef filling.  Bake, uncovered, at 375° for 18-22 minutes or until heated through and biscuits are golden brown.

Blackberry & Apple Jam

Blackberry & Apple Jam

Blackberry & Apple Jam

 

2 large cooking apples, cored and thinly sliced, cores reserved

3 pounds fresh blackberries

5 C. sugar

3 T. freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 to 3 T. blackberry or raspberry cordial, or liqueur (optional)

 

Prepare a hot water bath (see here). Place the jars in it to keep warm. Wash the lids and rings in hot, soapy water, and set aside.  Put the reserved apple cores in a piece of cheesecloth and tie the ends securely with kitchen twine into a sachet. In a preserving pot or deep pot, combine the apple slices, blackberries, and the sachet. Cover the fruit with water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, or until the fruit is very tender and starting to fall apart. Remove the pot from the heat. Remove and discard the sachet. Using a sieve or fine strainer, purée the fruit by passing it through into a clean pan. Add the sugar, lemon juice, and cordial (if using). Return the mixture to a simmer over low heat. Continue to cook, stirring often, for 20 to 25 minutes or until the jam gels and the mixture reaches 220°F, measured with a candy thermometer. Test for gel after 20 minutes (see here).  Ladle the jam into the prepared jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace. Use a nonmetallic utensil to release any air bubbles. Wipe the rims clean and seal with the lids and rings.  Process the jars in a hot water bath (see here) for 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the jars rest in the water bath for 10 minutes. Carefully remove the jars from the hot water canner. Set aside to cool for 12 hours. Check the lids for proper seals (see here). Remove the rings, wipe the jars, label, and date them, and transfer to a cupboard or pantry. Refrigerate any jars that do not seal properly and use within 1 month. Properly sealed jars will last in the cupboard for 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate, and consume within 1 month.

Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger Soup

1/2 lb. ground beef

3/4 C. chopped onion

3/4 C. shredded carrots

3/4 C. diced celery

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. dried parsley flakes

4 T. butter or margarine, divided

3 C. chicken broth

4 C. diced peeled potatoes

1/4 C. flour

8 oz. cheese, cubed or shredded

1-1/2 C. milk

3/4 tsp. salt

1/4 to 1/2 tsp. pepper

1/4 C. sour cream

 

In a 3-quart saucepan, brown beef; drain and set aside.  In the same saucepan, sauté onion, carrots, celery, basil and parsley in 1 T. butter until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Add broth, potatoes, and beef; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, melt remaining butter.  Add flour; cook and stir for 3-5 minutes or until bubbly.  Add to soup; bring to a boil.  Cook and stir for 2 minutes.  Reduce heat to low.  Add cheese, milk, salt, and pepper; cook and stir until cheese melts.  Remove from the heat; blend in sour cream.  Makes 8 servings.

Sunshine Soup with Mushrooms

Sunshine Soup with Mushrooms

Sunshine Soup with Mushrooms

 

Not all children love mushrooms, but if you are a parent of a fussy eater, chop your mushrooms very finely. You can serve mushrooms to children over three years old, provided, of course, that they do not have allergies to mushrooms. Choose the freshest mushrooms with closed caps. Some recipes recommend using canned tomatoes, but I strongly advise against giving canned foods to children because can lining contains phthalate BPA, a well-known endocrine disruptor.

 

2 T. olive oil

2 medium leeks

2 C. button mushrooms

2 tomatoes

1/2 C. red lentils

1/2 C. pearl barley

Fresh dill, to garnish

 

Trim, halve, wash and thinly slice the leeks. Chop the mushrooms finely. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add leeks and mushroom. Cook, stirring, for 3 to 4 minutes. Cut tomatoes in quarters and slice the skin off the flesh using sharp knife. Alternatively, splash the tomato with boiling water and quickly place them into a pan of ice cold water. The skin should be easy to remove. Add skinless tomatoes to the pan with leeks and mushrooms and stir well. Add lentils, barley and the stock to the pan. Cover and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3 5 to 40 minutes or until barley is tender. Ladle into bowls. Serve with a sprinkle of chopped dill and whole meal croutons.

Spiced Citrus Dump Chicken

Spiced Citrus Dump Chicken

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons lime juice

2 tablespoons orange juice

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tablespoons chili powder

2 tablespoons paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne (or more)

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt

1 1/2 lbs chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or wings)

 

For immediate cooking: Pre-heat oven to 350°F Place all ingredients into a large baking dish, turn chicken to coat. Bake until chicken juices run clear (45-60 minutes for chicken pieces, or 20-30 minutes for chicken breasts). For freezing: Place all ingredients into a 1 Gallon freezer bag. Lay flat in freezer.  To thaw and cook: Take the bag out of the freezer the night before, make sure the bag is sealed completely.  For the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F Empty the contents of the bag into a large baking dish and bake until the juices run clear (45-60 minutes for chicken pieces, or 20-30 minutes for chicken breasts). For the crockpot: cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 or until done. On the grill: cook over medium heat until juices run clear.

Diabetic Detox Tea

Diabetic Detox Tea

Diabetic Detox Tea

 

1 fresh lemon

1/2 inch ginger root

1 cinnamon stick

3-4 whole cloves

Dash of cayenne pepper

1 T. organic honey

 

Peel and cut the lemon into chunks. Peel and grate the ginger. Combine all ingredients in a pot or a coffee press, add boiling water, cover, allow to cool down, and enjoy.

Pierogi Skillet Dinner

Pierogi Skillet Dinner

1 Tbsp. olive oil

1 lb. smoked sausage or Keilbasa

1 box of mini pierogies (I use the potato and cheese but use whatever your family likes)

2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables.

Cut the smoked sausage diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices. Put a large pot of water on high to start it boiling. Once boiling add the frozen vegetables. Stir to prevent sticking. Make sure you don’t overcook the vegetables. You will be adding them to the skillet and they will continue to cook there. You’ll want to bring the water back to a boil so you can add the pierogies into the same water with the vegetables. Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Add smoked sausage to oil and cook until browned. While the sausage is browning, it should be time to add the pierogies to the vegetables and water. Be careful…these cook quick. As soon as the pierogies float, strain the vegetables and pierogies. Add the vegetables and pierogies to the skillet and continue to cook until the pierogies brown a little.

Celery and Coconut Cleansing Soup

Celery and Coconut Cleansing Soup

Celery and Coconut Cleansing Soup

 

Celery is an excellent source of vitamin C as well at least a dozen other types of antioxidant nutrients that help protect us against unwanted oxygen damage to our cells, blood vessels, and large organ systems in our bodies. In addition to that, celery contains active compounds called phthalides which allow blood vessels to dilate. Studies have shown that celery can reduce blood pressure. Phthalides also reduce stress hormones which can cause blood vessels to constrict. Celery contains phytochemical compounds known as coumarins. Studies have shown that they are effective in cancer prevention and are capable of enhancing the activity of white blood cells. Celery may help to lower cholesterol and prevent cancer by improving detoxification. This simple quick recipe is excellent for liver cleansing

 

1 small onion

1 small carrot

1 celery rib

1 inch fresh ginger

2 T. coconut oil

2 C. low-sodium vegetable stock

Fresh lemon juice, to taste

 

Peel and finely chop onions, carrots, celery and ginger. Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onions until tender, approximately 5 minutes. Slowly stir in carrots, celery and ginger, and continue cooking until carrots are tender. Stir in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and continue cooking for 10 minutes. Serve with a sprinkle of your favorite fragrant herbs.

CrockPot Hickory Smoked Brisket

CrockPot Hickory Smoked Brisket

3-4 pounds beef brisket, or chuck roast

1 T – 1/2 cup hickory liquid smoke (sub Worcestershire sauce for some smoke if you like)

1/4 cup A-1 steak sauce

1 T celery salt (see note below, I’d stick with a 1/2T)

1/2 T garlic powder

1/2 t pepper

 

Use a 4 quart crockpot. I used a 6—if you only have a big guy, put a layer of foil down on top of the meat to create a smaller steaming space so your meat doesn’t dry out. Put the meat in your crockpot, add spices to all sides of it. Add A-1 and liquid smoke.  Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6. Slow and low is better, the meat will shred nicely when cooked for a long period of time. I cooked ours on low for 10 hours, then it was on warm for another 3.  Serve over mashed potatoes or polenta.