Roasted Salmon and Leeks in Phyllo Packets

Roasted Salmon and Leeks in Phyllo Packets

1/2 C. (2-inch) julienne-cut leek
1/2 C. (2-inch) julienne-cut carrot
2 tsp. minced fresh tarragon
1/2 tsp. salt, divided
4 (6-oz.) salmon fillets (about 1 inch thick)
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
12 (18 x 14-inch) sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed and divided
Cooking spray
2 tsp. fresh lemon juice, divided
4 lemon wedges

Preheat oven to 400°. Cook leek and carrot in boiling water 1 minute; drain. Combine leek mixture, tarragon, and 1/4 tsp. salt in a small bowl, tossing gently. Sprinkle salmon evenly with remaining 1/4 tsp. salt and pepper. Place 1 phyllo sheet on a large cutting board or work surface (cover the remaining dough to prevent drying); lightly coat with cooking spray. Repeat layers twice, ending with phyllo. Gently press phyllo layers together. Lightly coat top phyllo sheet with cooking spray. Arrange 1/4 C. leek mixture along center of 1 short edge of phyllo, leaving a 4-inch border; top with 1 fillet. Drizzle with 1/2 tsp. juice. Fold long edges of phyllo over fish. Starting at short edge with 4-inch border, roll up jelly-roll fashion. Place wrapped fish, seam side down, on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Lightly coat wrapped fish with cooking spray. Repeat procedure with remaining phyllo, cooking spray, leek mixture, salmon, and juice. Bake at 400° for 15 minutes or until lightly browned, and let stand 5 minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 457
Fat: 16.5g
Fiber: 1.8g

Veal Chops with Sage-Balsamic Sauce and Warm Mushroom Salad

Veal Chops with Sage-Balsamic Sauce and Warm Mushroom Salad

Veal:
1/4 C. balsamic vinegar
2 T. fresh lemon juice
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 tsp. extravirgin olive oil
1 tsp. grated lemon rind
2 tsp. chopped fresh sage
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 (8-oz.) veal chops, trimmed
Cooking spray
1/8 tsp. salt

Salad:
1 large Walla Walla or other sweet onion, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices (about 1/2 lb.)
1 lb. portobello mushrooms, stemmed
1/4 C. low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
1 T. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. honey
1 T. chopped fresh chives
1 T. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Sauce:
1 C. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 tsp. red currant jelly

To prepare veal, combine first 7 ingredients in a large heavy-duty zip-top plastic bag. Add chops; seal bag, tossing gently to coat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, turning occasionally. Preheat broiler. Heat a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Remove chops from marinade, reserving marinade. Sprinkle chops with salt. Add to pan; cook 4 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness. Remove chops from pan. To prepare salad, place onion and mushrooms, gill sides up, on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray. Combine soy sauce, 1 T. juice, and honey, stirring with whisk. Spoon soy sauce mixture evenly over mushrooms and onion. Broil 3 minutes; turn onion. Broil an additional 3 minutes or until onion is tender. Cut the mushrooms into thick slices. Combine mushrooms, onion, chives, and parsley. Sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. pepper; toss gently. To prepare sauce, combine reserved marinade, broth, and jelly; add to pan, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Bring to a boil; cook until reduced to 1/4 C. (about 6 minutes), stirring frequently. Serve sauce with chops and mushroom salad.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 391
Fat: 12.7g
Fiber: 3.1g

Shrimp-and-Quince Curry

Shrimp-and-Quince Curry

1 T. margarine
2 C. diced cored peeled quince (about 2 quinces)
1 1/2 C. low-salt chicken broth, divided
1 C. chopped onion
2 T. minced peeled fresh ginger
1 T. minced seeded jalapeño pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 T. curry powder
2 C. canned crushed tomatoes with added purée, undrained
1 C. diced red bell pepper
1 C. diced yellow bell pepper
1/4 C. dried currants
2 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 T. water
2 tsp. cornstarch
2/3 C. plain fat-free yogurt
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
8 C. hot cooked rice
2 T. sliced green onions

Melt the margarine in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add quince; sauté 3 minutes or until lightly browned. Add 1/2 C. broth and onion. Simmer 12 minutes or until liquid evaporates. Add ginger, jalapeño, and garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add curry powder; sauté 1 minute. Add 1 C. broth and tomatoes. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Add bell peppers and currants; simmer 5 minutes. Add shrimp; simmer 4 minutes. Combine water and cornstarch. Stir yogurt until smooth. Add the cornstarch mixture, yogurt, salt, and pepper to skillet. Bring to a simmer, and cook 1 minute or until mixture is slightly thick, stirring constantly. Serve the curry over rice, and sprinkle with green onions.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 411
Fat: 3.6g
Fiber: 3.6g

Lemon-Sage Turkey with Wild-Mushroom Gravy

Lemon-Sage Turkey with Wild-Mushroom Gravy

3 T. grated lemon rind
1/4 C. fresh lemon juice
3 T. dried thyme
2 T. dried rubbed sage
1 T. cracked black pepper
1 tsp. salt
1 (12-lb.) fresh or frozen turkey, thawed
2 (16-oz.) cans fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
Cooking spray
Wild-Mushroom Gravy

Combine first 6 ingredients; set aside. Remove and discard giblets from turkey, reserving neck for gravy. Rinse turkey with cold water; pat dry. Trim excess fat. Starting at neck cavity, loosen skin from breast and drumsticks by inserting fingers, gently pushing between skin and meat. Lift wing tips up and over back; tuck under turkey. Rub spice mixture under loosened skin; rub into the body cavity. Preheat oven to 350°. Pour 1 can of broth in bottom of a shallow roasting pan. Place turkey, breast side up, on a rack coated with cooking spray. Place rack in roasting pan. Insert meat thermometer into meaty part of thigh, making sure not to touch bone. Bake at 350° for 1 1/2 hours. Carefully pour 1 can of broth into pan. Bake an additional 1 1/2 hours or until thermometer registers 180°. Remove turkey from oven; reserve pan drippings to make gravy. Cover turkey loosely with foil; let stand 15 to 20 minutes. Discard skin. Serve with Wild-Mushroom Gravy.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 308
Fat: 6.7g
Fiber: .7g

Wild-Mushroom Gravy

Wild-Mushroom Gravy

Pan drippings
2 C. water
3/4 C. thinly sliced shallots
1/2 C. thinly sliced carrot
1 turkey neck
1 C. sliced button mushrooms
1 C. thinly sliced shiitake mushroom caps (about 3 1/2 oz.)
5 T. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. red currant jelly
1/4 tsp. black pepper

Place a large zip-top plastic bag inside a 4-C. measure. Pour drippings from turkey roasting pan into bag; let stand 10 minutes (fat will rise to the top). Seal bag; carefully snip off 1 bottom corner of bag. Drain drippings to measure 2 C., stopping before fat layer reaches opening. Reserve 2 T. fat in bag; set aside. Combine water, shallots, carrot, and turkey neck in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 30 minutes. Strain cooking liquid through a sieve over a bowl, reserving 3/4 C. cooking liquid. Discard solids, reserving turkey neck. Remove meat from neck; chop. Add meat and cooking liquid to defatted 2 C. drippings in 4-C. measure. Heat reserved 2 T. fat in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add mushrooms; sauté 2 minutes. Add flour; cook 1 minute. Gradually add cooking liquid mixture; cook 10 minutes or until slightly thick, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in jelly and pepper.

Yield: 3 C.
Serving size: 1/4 C.

Calories: 43
Fat: 2.5g
Fiber: .3g

Orange-Currant Chicken with Toasted Walnuts

Orange-Currant Chicken with Toasted Walnuts

1/3 C. currants or raisins
1/2 tsp. grated orange rind
3 T. orange marmalade
3 T. orange juice
2 T. low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp. curry powder
Cooking spray
1 lb. skinned, boned chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
1 C. chopped red bell pepper
1 3/4 C. water, divided
1 C. uncooked couscous
1/4 C. chopped walnuts, toasted

Combine first 6 ingredients in a small bowl; set aside. Place a nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken and bell pepper sauté 4 minutes or until chicken is browned. Stir in 1/4 C. water, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Stir in currant mixture, and cook chicken over medium heat 2 minutes or until slightly thick. Set chicken aside, and keep warm. Bring 1 1/2 C. water to a boil in a medium saucepan; gradually stir in couscous. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Serve chicken and sauce over couscous. Sprinkle with walnuts.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 406
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2.9g

Monte Cristo Sandwich with Sweet Mustard Sauce

Monte Cristo Sandwich with Sweet Mustard Sauce

Sauce:
1/4 C. red currant jelly
2 T. Dijon mustard
1 T. orange juice
1 T. water

Sandwiches:
2/3 C. egg substitute
1/2 C. fat-free milk
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
4 (1-oz.) slices cooked turkey breast
4 (1-oz.) slices cooked ham
4 (1-oz.) slices 50%-less-fat Jarlsberg or Swiss cheese
8 (1-oz.) slices white bread
Cooking spray
1 1/2 tsp. powdered sugar

To prepare sauce, combine first 4 ingredients in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring well with a whisk. Cook until jelly melts. To prepare sandwiches, combine egg substitute, milk, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Place one slice each of the turkey, ham, and cheese on each of 4 bread slices. Top with remaining bread slices. Dip both sides of each sandwich into the egg substitute mixture. Place sandwiches in a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium; cook for 3 minutes on each side or until sandwiches are golden. Sprinkle sandwiches with powdered sugar. Serve sandwiches with sauce.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 394
Fat: 7.7g
Fiber: 1.2g

Grape-and-Currant Tart with Fontina Cheese

Grape-and-Currant Tart with Fontina Cheese

1/2 C. boiling water
1/4 C. dried currants
6 (3/4-oz.) slices white bread
Vegetable cooking spray
1 1/2 C. skim milk, divided
1 1/4 C. (5 oz.) diced fontina cheese
1 1/4 C. seedless red grapes, halved
2 T. all-purpose flour
1/3 C. sugar
2 T. yellow cornmeal
1 tsp. grated lemon rind
3 egg whites, lightly beaten
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 T. sugar
2 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary

Preheat oven to 350°. Combine boiling water and currants; let stand 15 minutes. Drain and set aside. Trim crusts from bread; discard crusts. Cut each slice into 4 triangles; place triangles in a single layer in a 10-inch quiche dish coated with cooking spray. Pour 1/2 C. milk over bread; let stand 5 minutes. Top with currants, cheese, and grapes. Place flour in a bowl, and gradually add remaining 1 C. milk, stirring with a wire whisk until blended. Stir in 1/3 C. sugar, cornmeal, lemon rind, egg whites, and egg; pour over tart. Drizzle oil over tart, and sprinkle with 1 T. sugar and rosemary. Bake at 350° for 45 minutes or until set; let cool on a wire rack.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 219
Fat: 7.6g
Fiber: .8g

Glazed Beets and Cabbage with Pepper-Toasted Pecans

Glazed Beets and Cabbage with Pepper-Toasted Pecans

1 tsp. stick margarine
2 tsp. sugar
Dash of ground red pepper
Dash of black pepper
Dash of ground cinnamon
1/2 C. chopped pecans
Cooking spray
3 (15-oz.) cans whole baby beets, undrained
1/4 C. red currant jelly
1/4 C. red wine vinegar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. white pepper
1 1/2 C. thinly sliced shallots
3 C. coarsely chopped red cabbage

Preheat oven to 325°. Melt the margarine in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add sugar, red pepper, black pepper, and cinnamon; cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in pecans. Spread pecan mixture onto a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 325° for 8 minutes; cool. Set aside. Drain beets in a colander over a bowl, reserving 3 T. liquid. Combine reserved beet liquid, jelly, vinegar, salt, and white pepper; set aside. Cut beets in half; set aside. Place a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat until hot. Add shallots; sauté 4 minutes or until tender. Add cabbage, and saute 10 minutes or until tender. Add jelly mixture and beets to skillet; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes or until liquid is slightly thick. Spoon into a bowl; sprinkle with pecan mixture.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 99
Fat: 2.3g
Fiber: 1.5g

Spiced Turkey with Fresh-Pear Chutney

Spiced Turkey with Fresh-Pear Chutney

1 (12-lb.) fresh or frozen whole turkey, thawed
3 T. pear juice
2 tsp. grated peeled fresh ginger
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. ground allspice
2 Granny Smith apples, cored and quartered
1 (2-inch) piece peeled fresh ginger, thinly sliced
Cooking spray
Fresh-Pear Chutney

Remove giblets and neck from turkey; discard. Rinse turkey thoroughly with cold water; pat dry. Starting at neck cavity, loosen skin from breast and drumsticks by inserting fingers, gently pushing between skin and meat. Tie ends of legs with cord. Lift wing tips up and over back; tuck under turkey. Preheat oven to 350°. Combine pear juice, grated ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice in a small bowl. Rub spice mixture under loosened skin. Stuff cavity of turkey with apples and sliced ginger. Place turkey on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray or on a rack set in a shallow roasting pan. Insert meat thermometer into meaty part of thigh, making sure not to touch bone. Bake at 350° for 3 hours or until thermometer registers 180°. (Cover turkey loosely with foil if it gets too brown.) Remove turkey from oven. Cover turkey loosely with foil; let stand at least 10 minutes before carving. Discard apples and sliced ginger. Serve with Fresh-Pear Chutney.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 310
Fat: 4.3g
Fiber: 1.6g

Fresh-Pear Chutney

Fresh-Pear Chutney

1 C. chopped red onion
1/3 C. packed brown sugar
1/4 C. currants
1/4 C. rice vinegar
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper
1/2 tsp. minced peeled fresh ginger
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
3 C. chopped peeled pear

Combine first 8 ingredients in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat; cool 10 minutes. Place in a medium bowl; stir in pear.

Yield: 3 C.
Serving Size: 1/4 C.

Calories: 55
Fat: .2g
Fiber: 1.5g

Citrus Couscous Salad

Citrus Couscous Salad

2 C. fresh orange juice, divided
1/2 C. water
1 tsp. salt
1 (10-oz.) package couscous (about 1 2/3 C.)
1/2 C. dried apricots, sliced
1/2 C. dried currants
2 T. red wine vinegar
1 C. chopped seeded cucumber
3/4 C. chopped green onions
1/2 C. coarsely chopped pistachios
1/4 C. chopped fresh mint
1/4 C. fresh lemon juice
2 T. extra virgin olive oil

Bring 1 1/2 C. orange juice, water, and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan; gradually stir in couscous. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Place couscous in a large bowl. Combine 1/2 C. orange juice, apricots, currants, and vinegar in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat; let stand 15 minutes. Drain and discard cooking liquid. Add apricot mixture, cucumber, and remaining ingredients to couscous, tossing to combine.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 295
Fat: 7.4g
Fiber: 5g

Charlotte Russe Parfaits

Charlotte Russe Parfaits

1/2 C. sugar
1/4 C. cornstarch
1 egg
2 1/2 C. skim milk
2 T. margarine
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/2 C. frozen reduced-calorie whipped topping, thawed and divided
20 ladyfingers
3 T. black cherry preserves with Chambord liqueur or red currant jelly
Mint leaves (optional)

Combine sugar, cornstarch, and egg in a bowl; stir well with a wire whisk, and set aside. Heat milk over medium-high heat in a medium heavy saucepan to 180° or until tiny bubbles form around edge (do not boil). Remove from heat. Gradually add hot milk to sugar mixture, stirring constantly with whisk. Return milk mixture to pan. Add margarine, and cook over medium heat 5 minutes or until thickened and bubbly, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low, and cook an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Pour into a bowl; cover surface with plastic wrap, and let cool completely. Uncover and gently fold in 1 C. whipped topping; cover and chill at least 2 hours. Split ladyfingers in half lengthwise. Line each of 8 dessert compotes with 5 ladyfinger halves, standing upright. Spoon 1/2 C. custard into center of each compote. Melt preserves, and drizzle over custard. Top each serving with 1 T. whipped topping. Garnish with mint leaves, if desired.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 202
Fat: 5.9g
Fiber: 0g

Beef Triangles with Chutney Sauce

Beef Triangles with Chutney Sauce

1/2 C. plain low-fat yogurt
1/2 C. mango chutney
1 lb. ground chuck
1/2 C. chopped onion
1/3 C. dried currants
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp. ground red pepper
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1/2 C. water
1 T. cornstarch
15 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed
Butter-flavored vegetable cooking spray

Combine yogurt and mango chutney in a bowl; stir well, and set chutney sauce aside. Cook meat and onion in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain meat mixture in a colander; wipe drippings from skillet with a paper towel. Return meat mixture to skillet. Add currants and next 6 ingredients (currants through black pepper); stir well. Combine water and cornstarch; stir well, and add to the meat mixture. Cook over medium heat 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; set aside. Working with 1 phyllo sheet at a time, cut each sheet lengthwise into 4 (3 1/2-inch-wide) strips; lightly coat strips with cooking spray (cover remaining phyllo dough to keep it from drying out). Stack 2 strips, and spoon about 1 T. meat mixture onto one end of each stack. Fold the left bottom corner over mixture, forming a triangle; keep folding back and forth into a triangle to end of strip. Place triangles, seam sides down, on a baking sheet; lightly coat with cooking spray. Bake at 400� for 12 minutes or until golden. Serve warm with chutney sauce.

Yield: 30 appetizers
Serving size: 1 triangle and 1 1/2 tsp. sauce

Calories: 82
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 0g

Red Currant-Glazed Pork Chops

Red Currant-Glazed Pork Chops

4 (4-oz.) lean, boned center-cut loin pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
3/4 tsp. rubbed sage
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
Vegetable cooking spray
1/4 C. red currant jelly
2 T. balsamic vinegar

Trim fat from chops. Sprinkle sage, salt, and pepper over both sides of chops. Coat a medium nonstick skillet with cooking spray; place over medium heat until hot. Add chops, and cook for 7 minutes on each side or until done. Remove the chops from skillet, and place on a serving platter; set aside, and keep warm. Add jelly and vinegar to skillet, and cook 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly, stirring constantly. Spoon over chops.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 234
Fat: 8.3g
Fiber: .2g

Filet Mignon with Red Currant-Green Peppercorn Sauce

Filet Mignon with Red Currant-Green Peppercorn Sauce

1 1/2 C. Merlot
1/4 C. finely chopped shallots
1/4 C. red currant jelly
1 T. drained brine-packed green peppercorns, finely chopped
2 tsp. butter
4 (4-oz.) beef tenderloin steaks, trimmed (1 inch thick)
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Prepare grill to medium-high heat. Combine wine and shallots in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil; cook until reduced to 1/4 C. (about 10 minutes). Strain through a sieve over a bowl; discard solids. Return wine to pan, and add jelly and green peppercorns. Cook over medium heat until jelly melts (about 2 minutes), stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Stir in butter; keep warm. Sprinkle steaks with salt and black pepper. Place beef on grill rack; cook 4 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness. Serve sauce with beef.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 302
Fat: 13g
Fiber: .2g

Shrimp-Poblano Rice

Shrimp-Poblano Rice

1 3 1/2-oz. bag boil-in-bag long-grain rice
3 T. sliced almonds, toasted
1/2 tsp. salt, divided
1 1/2 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 tsp. black pepper
Cooking spray
2 T. olive oil, divided
1 poblano chile, seeded and chopped
1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 C. fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
4 lemon wedges

Cook rice according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Stir in the almonds and 1/4 tsp. salt. Keep rice mixture warm. While rice cooks, heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle shrimp with 1/4 tsp. salt and black pepper. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add 1 1/2 tsp. oil to pan. Add poblano; cook 3 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to medium. Add shrimp; cook 4 minutes or until shrimp are done. Remove from heat. Combine 1 1/2 T. of oil, cilantro, and lemon juice, stirring with a whisk. Add cilantro mixture to shrimp mixture; toss to coat. Divide rice evenly among 4 plates; top with shrimp mixture. Serve with lemon wedges.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 1/2 C. rice mixture, about 1 C. shrimp mixture, and 1 lemon wedge

Calories: 385
Fat: 13.2g
Fiber: 1.3g

Quinoa Salad with Apricots and Pistachios

Quinoa Salad with Apricots and Pistachios

Salad:
3 C. water
1 C. uncooked quinoa
1/2 tsp. salt
4 C. thinly sliced romaine lettuce
1/3 C. dried apricots (about 10), quartered
1/3 C. golden raisins
1/4 C. shelled dry-roasted pistachios
1/4 C. thinly sliced green onions
1/4 C. chopped fresh parsley
1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro
2 T. finely chopped fresh mint
1/4 tsp. black pepper

Vinaigrette:
1/2 tsp. grated lime rind
3 T. fresh lime juice
2 T. mirin (sweet rice wine) or slightly sweet white wine (such as Riesling)
1 T. olive oil
1/2 to 1 tsp. minced jalapeño pepper
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 tsp. ground coriander
1/4 tsp. paprika

To prepare the salad, combine water, quinoa, and salt in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Drain the quinoa mixture through a sieve over a bowl, reserving 3 T. cooking liquid. Combine quinoa mixture, lettuce, and next 8 ingredients (lettuce through black pepper) in a large bowl; set aside.
To prepare the vinaigrette, combine reserved 3 T. cooking liquid, lime rind, and remaining ingredients in a bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Pour vinaigrette over quinoa mixture, and toss well to coat.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 365
Fat: 11.8g
Fiber: 10.6g

Lemon-Basil Risotto with Tomato Topping

Lemon-Basil Risotto with Tomato Topping

Topping:
1 1/2 C. chopped seeded tomato
2 T. chopped green onions
1 1/2 tsp. extravirgin olive oil
1 tsp. balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
Dash of sugar
Dash of salt
Dash of freshly ground black pepper

Risotto:
2 T. butter
1 C. chopped onion
1 1/2 C. Arborio rice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 C. dry white wine
4 C. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 C. (4 oz.) grated fresh Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. grated lemon rind
3 T. fresh lemon juice
1/3 C. finely chopped fresh basil

To prepare topping, combine first 8 ingredients. Cover and let stand at room temperature. To prepare risotto, melt butter in a 6-quart pressure cooker over medium heat. Add onion; cook 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add rice and garlic; cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add wine; cook 1 minute or until liquid is absorbed, stirring frequently. Stir in broth, 1/2 tsp. salt, 1/4 tsp. black pepper, and nutmeg. Close lid securely, and bring to high pressure over high heat. Adjust heat to medium or level needed to maintain high pressure; cook 6 minutes. Remove from heat; place cooker under cold running water. Remove lid. Stir in cheese, rind, juice, and basil. Top with tomato topping.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 368
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2.3g

Vegetable Lasagna

Vegetable Lasagna

1 tsp. olive oil
3/4 C. sliced mushrooms
3/4 C. chopped zucchini
1/2 C. sliced carrot
1/2 C. chopped red bell pepper
1/2 C. thinly sliced red onion
1 (26-oz.) bottle fat-free tomato basil pasta sauce
2 T. commerical pesto
1 (15-oz.) carton part-skim ricotta cheese
Cooking spray
6 hot cooked lasagna noodles (about 6 oz. uncooked), cut in half
3/4 C. (3 oz.) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 375º. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add mushrooms and the next 4 ingredients (mushrooms through onion); cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add pasta sauce; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 10 minutes. Combine pesto and ricotta in a small bowl. Spread 1/2 C. tomato mixture in the bottom of a 8-inch square baking dish or pan coated with cooking spray. Arrange 4 noodle halves over tomato mixture. Top noodles with half of ricotta mixture and 1 C. tomato mixture. Repeat layers, ending with noodles. Spread remaining tomato mixture over noodles; sprinkle with mozzarella. Cover and bake at 375º for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 20 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes. Note: To make ahead, assemble as directed; stop before baking. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Let stand 30 minutes at room temperature; bake as directed.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 328
Fat: 10.9g
Fiber: 3.7g

Chicken Chiles Rellenos Casserole

Chicken Chiles Rellenos Casserole

1/2 lb. ground chicken
1 C. chopped onion
1 3/4 tsp. ground cumin
1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 (16-oz.) can fat-free refried beans
2 (4-oz.) cans whole green chiles, drained and cut lengthwise into quarters
1 C. (4 oz.) preshredded colby-Jack cheese
1 C. frozen whole kernel corn, thawed and drained
1/3 C. all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/3 C. skim milk
1/8 tsp. hot sauce
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 egg whites

Cook chicken and onion in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Combine chicken mixture, cumin, and next 5 ingredients in a bowl. Stir well, and set aside. Arrange half of green chile strips in an 11 x 7-inch baking dish; top with half of cheese. Spoon mounds of bean mixture onto cheese, and spread gently, leaving a 1/4-inch border around edge of dish; top with corn. Arrange remaining chile strips over corn; top with remaining cheese. Set aside. Combine flour and salt in a bowl; gradually add milk and hot sauce, stirring with a wire whisk until blended. Stir in eggs and egg whites; pour over casserole. Bake at 350° for 1 hour and 5 minutes or until set; let stand 5 minutes.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 292
Fat: 9.5g
Fiber: 5.2g

Chipotle Tamale Pie

Chipotle Tamale Pie

1 3/4 C. chopped onion
3/4 C. chopped green bell pepper
3/4 lb. ground round
1/2 C. bottled salsa
1 to 2 T. bottled chipotle sauce (such as La Preferidia) or hot sauce
1 (15 1/2-oz.) can pinto beans in zesty sauce (such as S&W), undrained
1 (14.5-oz.) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, drained
3/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro, divided
1 C. all-purpose flour
3/4 C. yellow cornmeal
2 T. sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
2/3 C. 1% low-fat milk
1 1/2 T. butter, melted
1 large egg, lightly beaten

Preheat oven to 400�. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and beef; cook 5 minutes or until meat is browned, stirring to crumble. Stir in the salsa, chipotle sauce, beans, and tomatoes; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in 1/2 C. cilantro. Spoon beef mixture into a 3-quart casserole. Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring C.; level with a knife. Combine flour and next 4 ingredients (flour through salt) in a large bowl. Add 1/4 C. cilantro, milk, butter, and egg; stir until well-blended. Spoon the batter over beef mixture; spread evenly. Bake at 400� for 35 minutes or until golden.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 329
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 5.8g

Spam Fried Rice I

Spam Fried Rice I

3 tsp. cooking oil
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
3 C. cooked, leftover rice (break up the clumps first!)
3/4 C. Spam (in chunks or in strips)
3/4 C. chopped veggies (peas, carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, onions, etc)
1 tsp. oyster sauce or 1 1/2 tsp. soy sauce
4 green onions, thinly sliced
2 garlic pieces (skin removed and sliced or cracked open)

Step 1. Put skillet on high heat. Add 1 tsp. oil and very lightly scramble eggs, salt, and pepper. Put eggs on the side on a plate or C.. Only lightly scramble them because we will put them back in later and cook them some more. Step 2. Put 2 tsp. oil in and let it heat up to medium-high heat. Add the garlic and spam. Let it lightly brown. The garlic fragrance should fill your kitchen too. Then add in your rice (de-clumped). Add the oyster sauce or soy sauce evenly and stir everything. Step 3. As you cook your rice, it should start to soak up the oyster sauce or soy sauce and may get a little crisp too, since leftover rice is not very wet. But stir occasionally, as you don’t want your rice to burn. Finally, add in your veggies, your green onion, and your eggs back in. Optional: Fried rice is really a flexible dish, so you can add anything you like! I personally like to add cayenne pepper and bits of ginger

Citrus-Glazed Scallops with Avocado Salsa

Citrus-Glazed Scallops with Avocado Salsa

Scallops:
1 1/2 lb. large sea scallops, cut in half horizontally
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper

Glaze:
1/4 C. fresh lime juice
1/4 C. fresh orange juice
2 T. fresh lemon juice
1 T. grated peeled fresh ginger
2 T. honey
1 tsp. olive oil
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper
1 garlic clove, crushed
1/2 C. chopped green onions
1/4 C. finely chopped fresh cilantro

Salsa:
1/2 C. chopped seeded plum tomato
1/2 C. diced peeled avocado
1/4 C. finely chopped red onion
1 T. finely chopped fresh cilantro
1 T. chopped jalapeo pepper
1 T. fresh lime juice
1/2 tsp. olive oil
1/8 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1 garlic clove, crushed
8 Bibb lettuce leaves (optional)

To prepare scallops, heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Combine first 3 ingredients in a bowl; toss well. Add scallops to pan; cook 2 minutes on each side or until browned. Remove from pan; keep warm. To prepare glaze, combine lime juice and the next 7 ingredients (lime juice through 1 garlic clove) in a small bowl; stir with a whisk. Add juice mixture to pan. Cook 7 minutes or until glaze becomes shiny and begins to thicken. Drizzle the citrus glaze over the scallops; add green onions and 1/4 C. cilantro. Toss well. To prepare salsa, combine chopped tomato and remaining ingredients except lettuce; toss well. Serve on Bibb lettuce leaves, if desired.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 262
Fat: 6.1g
Fiber: 2.2g

Spiced Shrimp with Avocado Oil

Spiced Shrimp with Avocado Oil

1 1/2 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tsp. sugar
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1 T. chili powder
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1 1/2 T. avocado oil, divided
Lime wedges

Sprinkle shrimp with sugar and salt. Combine chili powder, cumin, coriander, and oregano. Lightly coat shrimp with spice mixture. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tsp. oil and half of shrimp; sauté 4 minutes or until done. Remove from pan. Repeat procedure with 1 tsp. oil and remaining shrimp. Place shrimp on a platter; drizzle remaining 2 1/2 tsp. oil over shrimp. Serve with lime wedges.

Yield: 5 servings
Calories: 193
Fat: 6.9g
Fiber: .8g

Truffle-Scented Risotto in Phyllo

Truffle-Scented Risotto in Phyllo

2 tsp. olive oil
1/3 C. finely chopped onion
1 tsp. minced fresh thyme
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 C. uncooked Arborio rice
2 T. dry white wine
1 1/2 C. water
1/2 tsp. fine sea salt
2 T. grated fresh Parmesan cheese
2 tsp. butter
1 tsp. white truffle oil
1/4 tsp. black pepper
6 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed
Cooking spray
2 T. chopped fresh parsley

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; saute 3 minutes. Add thyme and garlic; saute 1 minute. Stir in rice; saute 1 minute. Stir in wine; cook 1 minute or until liquid is nearly absorbed, stirring constantly. Add water and salt; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 18 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in cheese, butter, truffle oil, and pepper. Cool. Preheat oven to 375°. Place 1 phyllo sheet on a large cutting board or work surface (cover remaining dough to keep from drying); lightly coat sheet with cooking spray. Repeat layers with remaining phyllo and cooking spray, ending with phyllo. Gently press phyllo layers together. Lightly coat top phyllo sheet with cooking spray. Cut phyllo layers into 24 (1 1/2-inch) squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Carefully place 1 layered square in each of 24 miniature muffin C. coated with cooking spray; gently press squares into pan to form cups. Bake at 375° for 5 minutes or until crisp. Remove phyllo cups from pan. Fill each C. with 1 T. risotto. Sprinkle C. evenly with parsley.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 88
Fat: 2.7g
Fiber: .5g

Mussels with Leeks, Fennel, and Tomatoes

Mussels with Leeks, Fennel, and Tomatoes

3 C. Lobster Stock
3/4 C. thinly sliced leek
3/4 C. thinly sliced fennel bulb
2/3 C. finely chopped shallots
1/3 C. dry white wine
1/4 tsp. black pepper
2 lb. mussels
1/2 C. chopped seeded tomato
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh chives

Simmer first 6 ingredients in a Dutch oven over high heat. Add mussels; cover, reduce heat, and cook 4 minutes or until shells open. Remove from heat; discard any unopened shells. Divide mussels and broth evenly between 2 shallow bowls. Sprinkle with tomato and chives.

Yield: 2 servings
Serving size: about 18 mussels, 2 C. broth, 1/4 C. tomato, and 3/4 tsp. chives

Calories: 379
Fat: 8.9g
Fiber: 2.8g

Green Chile Sopes with Chipotle Mayonnaise, Shrimp, and Pineapple Slaw

Green Chile Sopes with Chipotle Mayonnaise, Shrimp, and Pineapple Slaw

Mayonnaise:
1 (7-oz.) can chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
2 T. low-fat mayonnaise
2 tsp. fresh lime juice
1/8 tsp. salt
1 garlic clove, minced

Slaw:
2 1/2 C. very thinly sliced green cabbage
3/4 C. (1/2-inch) cubed fresh pineapple
1/2 C. vertically sliced onion
1/2 C. thinly sliced green onions
1/3 C. julienne-cut radishes (about 2 large)
1/4 C. shredded carrot
1/4 C. finely chopped fresh cilantro
2 tsp. white vinegar
1/8 tsp. salt

Chile:
1 poblano chile

Shrimp:
1/8 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
16 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 1/2 lb.)
Cooking spray

Beans:
1 (15-oz.) can pinto beans, undrained

Sopes:
2 C. masa harina
1 1/4 C. water
1/2 tsp. salt
2 T. peanut oil, divided

To prepare mayonnaise, remove 1 tsp. adobo sauce from can; reserve remaining sauce and chiles for another use. Combine 1 tsp. adobo sauce, mayonnaise, lime juice, 1/8 tsp. salt, and garlic, stirring well. Cover and chill. To prepare slaw, combine the cabbage and next 8 ingredients (cabbage through 1/8 tsp. salt) in a medium bowl, tossing to combine. Cover and chill. Preheat broiler. To prepare chile, place poblano on a foil-lined baking sheet; broil 10 minutes or until blackened, turning occasionally. Place in a zip-top plastic bag; seal. Let stand 15 minutes. Peel chile; cut in half lengthwise. Discard the seeds and membranes. Thinly slice chile; set aside. To prepare shrimp, heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle 1/8 tsp. salt and black pepper over shrimp. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add shrimp to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until done. Remove from pan; keep warm. To prepare pinto beans, place beans in a small saucepan over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and keep warm. To prepare sopes, combine masa harina, water, and 1/2 tsp. salt; stir until a dense dough forms. Divide masa mixture into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball using moist hands. Pat each ball into a 1/4-inch-thick patty. Wipe skillet with a paper towel. Heat pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 T. oil. Place 4 sopes in pan; cook 5 minutes or until browned. Lightly coat tops of sopes with cooking spray. Turn over; cook 5 minutes or until browned. Repeat procedure with remaining oil and sopes. Place about 1 C. slaw on each of 4 plates. Arrange 2 sopes on each plate. Using a slotted spoon, spoon 2 T. pinto beans on each sope; top each with 2 shrimp. Spoon 1 tsp. mayonnaise over each sope. Divide the poblano strips evenly among servings.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 450
Fat: 14.8g
Fiber: 7.5g

Grilled-Steak Soft Tacos

Grilled-Steak Soft Tacos

1 C. fresh lime juice (about 8 limes)
1 (2-lb.) flank steak, trimmed
2 T. ground cumin
2 T. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper
6 garlic cloves, minced
Cooking spray
4 ears shucked corn
8 (8-inch) fat-free flour tortillas
2 C. trimmed arugula
2 C. thinly sliced red onion
1 C. cilantro sprigs
1 C. chopped tomato
1 C. diced peeled avocado
1/2 C. sliced seeded jalapeño pepper (about 4 peppers)
8 lime wedges

Combine lime juice and steak in a large zip-top plastic bag, and seal bag. Marinate in refrigerator 1 hour, turning bag occasionally. Prepare grill. Remove steak from bag; discard marinade. Combine cumin and next 4 ingredients (cumin through garlic); rub over both sides of steak. Place steak on a grill rack coated with cooking spray; grill 8 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness. Place on a cutting board; cover loosely with foil. Let stand 5 minutes. Cut steak diagonally across grain into thin slices. Place corn on grill rack coated with cooking spray; grill 8 minutes or until tender, turning occasionally. Cut kernels from ears of corn; discard cobs. Heat tortillas according to package directions. Divide steak evenly among tortillas; top each serving with about 1/4 C. corn, 1/4 C. arugula, 1/4 C. onion, 2 T. cilantro, 2 T. tomato, 2 T. avocado, and 1 T. jalapeño. Fold tortillas in half. Serve with lime wedges.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 397
Fat: 12.8g
Fiber: 6.7g

Soft Shrimp Tacos with Tropical Salsa

Soft Shrimp Tacos with Tropical Salsa

Salsa:
1/4 C. chopped green onions
1 T. chopped fresh cilantro
1 T. canned chopped green chiles
1 T. lemon juice
1 (11-oz.) can mandarin oranges in light syrup, drained
1 (8-oz.) can pineapple tidbits in juice, drained

Tacos:
Cooking spray
1 C. yellow bell pepper strips
1 C. vertically sliced red onion
1 garlic clove, minced
1 1/2 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 C. chopped tomato
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. chili powder
2 T. chopped fresh cilantro
8 (6-inch) flour tortillas
1 1/4 C. (5 oz.) shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese

To prepare the salsa, combine the first 6 ingredients in a bowl. Cover and chill. To prepare tacos, place a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat until hot. Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic; sauté 2 minutes. Add shrimp, tomato, cumin, and chili powder; sauté 3 minutes or until shrimp are done. Stir in cilantro. Spoon 1/2 C. shrimp mixture over one half of each tortilla, and top with about 3 T. cheese and 2 T. salsa; fold tortillas in half.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 276
Fat: 7.3g
Fiber: 2.3g

Feta-Spinach Tarts

Feta-Spinach Tarts

Cooking spray
1/2 C. chopped red onion
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/4 tsp. salt
1 (10-oz.) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed, drained, and squeezed dry
3 large egg whites
1 large egg
2 T. chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 T. chopped fresh oregano
2 T. 1% low-fat milk
6 (18 x 14-inch) sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed
1/2 C. (2 oz.) crumbled feta cheese

Preheat oven to 375°. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add onion, and cook 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Stir in pepper and salt. Add spinach; cook 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat, and cool slightly. Combine egg whites and egg in a medium bowl, stirring with a whisk. Add spinach mixture, parsley, oregano, and milk, stirring to combine. Place 1 phyllo sheet on a large cutting board or work surface (cover the remaining dough to prevent drying); lightly coat with cooking spray. Repeat layers with remaining phyllo and cooking spray, ending with phyllo. Gently press phyllo layers together. Lightly coat top phyllo sheet with cooking spray. Cut stack lengthwise into 3 (4 1/4-inch-wide) strips, and cut each strip crosswise to form 4 (4 1/2-inch) squares. Carefully place 1 layered square into each of 12 muffin C. coated with cooking spray; gently press squares into pan to form C.. Fan corners of phyllo cups. Lightly coat the corners of each phyllo C. with cooking spray. Divide the spinach mixture evenly among phyllo cups. Bake at 375° for 15 minutes. Remove from oven; sprinkle evenly with cheese. Loosely cover; bake an additional 3 minutes.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 62
Fat: 2.1g
Fiber: 1.1g

Baked Frittata Ribbons in Tomato Sauce

Baked Frittata Ribbons in Tomato Sauce

Cooking spray
2 C. finely chopped onion
2 T. finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 T. finely chopped fresh basil
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 C. chopped seeded peeled plum tomatoes (about 2 1/2 lb.)
1/2 tsp. salt

Frittata:
1/4 C. finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
4 large eggs
4 large egg whites
1/4 C. (1 oz.) grated fresh pecorino Romano cheese

To prepare sauce, heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add onion, 2 T. parsley, basil, and garlic; cook 7 minutes or until onion is tender, stirring frequently. Stir in the tomatoes and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Preheat broiler. To prepare frittata, combine 1/4 C. parsley and next 4 ingredients (parsley through egg whites), stirring with a whisk until well blended. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; coat pan with cooking spray. Add half of egg mixture, and cook 2 minutes or until bottom is set. Carefully turn frittata over. Cook 1 minute. Place cooked frittata on a cutting board. Repeat procedure with remaining egg mixture. Roll up cooked frittatas, jelly-roll fashion, and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Combine sauce, frittata ribbons, and cheese in a medium bowl, tossing to coat. Divide the frittata mixture evenly among 6 (6-oz.) ramekins or custard C.. Broil 2 minutes or until cheese melts and mixture is thoroughly heated.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 126
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 2.5g

Grillades and Gravy over Grits

Grillades and Gravy over Grits

4 tsp. vegetable oil, divided
2 lb. thin beef or breakfast steaks
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. black pepper, divided
1 C. diced white onion
1/2 C. chopped celery
1/2 C. chopped green bell pepper
1/4 C. minced fresh garlic (about 8 cloves)
2 T. all-purpose flour
1 (14.5-oz.) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce
1 (2 1/4-oz.) can sliced ripe olives
1 (14-oz.) can low-sodium beef broth
2 T. minced fresh basil
1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
1 tsp. hot pepper sauce
1/2 C. sliced green onions
1/4 C. minced fresh parsley
4 C. hot cooked grits

Heat 2 tsp. oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle steak with salt and 1 tsp. black pepper. Add one-third of steak to pan; cook 45 seconds on each side. Remove from pan; keep warm. Repeat procedure with remaining steak. Add remaining 2 tsp. oil to pan. Add white onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté 3 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Sprinkle flour over vegetables, and stir well to combine. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and olives; stir well to combine. Add broth; stir until well blended. Add remaining 1 tsp. black pepper, basil, thyme, and hot pepper sauce. Return steak to pan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour or until steak is tender. Stir in green onions and parsley. Serve over grits.

Yield: 8 servings
Serving size: about 3 oz. steak, about 1/3 C. gravy, and 1/2 C. grits

Calories: 326
Fat: 10.8g
Fiber: 2.2g

Chicken with Green Olives

Chicken with Green Olives

1 T. olive oil
8 chicken thighs (about 2 lb.), skinned
3/4 tsp. black pepper, divided
1/4 tsp. salt
2 C. chopped onion
1 T. minced fresh garlic
2 tsp. minced peeled fresh ginger
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
Dash of ground red pepper
1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
1 bay leaf
2 C. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
2/3 C. pitted green olives
2 T. fresh lemon juice
1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro
3 C. hot cooked couscous

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle chicken with 1/4 tsp. black pepper and 1/4 tsp. salt. Add chicken to pan; cook 10 minutes, browning on all sides. Remove chicken from pan; reduce heat to medium.
Add 1/2 tsp. black pepper, onion, and the next 8 ingredients (onion through bay leaf); cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add broth; bring to a boil. Return chicken to pan, and reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes or until chicken is done. Discard cinnamon and bay leaf. While chicken cooks, place olives in a small saucepan; cover with water. Bring to a boil; drain. Repeat procedure. Add olives and juice to chicken mixture; sprinkle with cilantro. Serve over couscous.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 2 chicken thighs, 1/2 C. sauce, and 3/4 C. couscous

Calories: 387
Fat: 12.1g
Fiber: 4g

Chicken Soup with Garlic, Saffron, and Tomatoes

Chicken Soup with Garlic, Saffron, and Tomatoes

8 black peppercorns
5 parsley sprigs
2 thyme sprigs
1 garlic clove, crushed
6 C. White Chicken Stock
2 C. chopped leek (about 2 large)
1 1/2 C. chopped fennel bulb
1 1/2 C. sliced mushrooms
1 C. chopped peeled turnip
1/2 C. chopped carrot
1/2 tsp. saffron threads
1 1/2 C. chopped seeded peeled tomato (about 5 medium)
1 lb. skinless, boneless chicken thighs
1 C. thinly sliced spinach
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. black pepper
1 (19-oz.) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 garlic clove, halved
12 (1/2-inch-thick) slices French bread baguette, toasted

Place first 4 ingredients on a double layer of cheesecloth. Gather edges of cheesecloth together; tie securely. Combine cheesecloth bag, stock, and next 6 ingredients (stock through saffron) in a large Dutch oven; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 10 minutes. Add tomato and chicken; simmer 20 minutes. Remove cheesecloth bag and chicken; discard cheesecloth bag. Cool chicken slightly, and chop. Add chicken, spinach, salt, pepper, and beans to broth mixture, and cook 2 minutes. Rub cut sides of garlic halves over one side of each bread slice, and discard garlic. Place 2 bread slices in each of 6 bowls; ladle 1 2/3 C. soup over each serving.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 312
Fat: 5.2g
Fiber: 7g

Turkey Thighs with Olives, Dried Cherries, and Chiles

Turkey Thighs with Olives, Dried Cherries, and Chiles

1 C. thinly sliced leek (about 1 large)
1 C. ruby port or other sweet red wine
3/4 C. dried cherries
3/4 C. pitted kalamata olives
1/3 C. fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
1 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. crushed red pepper
4 fresh thyme sprigs
1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
1 1/2 tsp. salt, divided
3 1/2 lb. turkey thighs, skinned
1 T. ground cumin

Combine the first 9 ingredients in an electric slow cooker, stirring to combine. Stir in 1/2 tsp. salt. Rinse turkey with cold water; pat dry. Sprinkle with remaining 1 tsp. salt and cumin. Place in slow cooker. Cover with lid, and cook on LOW 6 hours. Discard cinnamon stick.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 314
Fat: 12.1g
Fiber: 2.2g

Chicken Thighs with Goat Cheese Sauce and Tarragon

Chicken Thighs with Goat Cheese Sauce and Tarragon

1/4 C. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth, divided
1 (3-oz.) package goat cheese, softened
4 (4-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, halved
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. butter
2 T. finely chopped onion
2 T. finely chopped celery
2 T. finely chopped carrot
2 T. finely chopped red bell pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh or 1/2 tsp. dried tarragon
2 C. hot cooked rice

Combine 1 T. chicken broth and cheese in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk until blended. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.Melt butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add onion, celery, carrot, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté 3 minutes. Add chicken; cook for 2 minutes. Stir in 3 T. broth; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes or until chicken is done. Stir in cheese mixture and tarragon until blended. Serve with rice.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 319
Fat: 10g
Fiber: .8g

Pasta with Mussels and Monterey Jack

Pasta with Mussels and Monterey Jack

2 tsp. olive oil
1 1/2 C. chopped red bell pepper
1 C. chopped green onions
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 C. Chardonnay or other dry white wine
2 lb. mussels, scrubbed and debearded
1/2 C. (2 oz.) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
3/4 C. half-and-half
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
3 C. chopped spinach
6 C. hot cooked capellini or angel hair (about 12 oz. uncooked pasta)

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper, onions, and garlic; sauté 5 minutes. Add wine and mussels; cover and cook for 5 minutes or until mussels open. Discard any unopened shells. Remove mussels from pan with a slotted spoon; cool. Remove meat from mussels; set aside. Discard shells.
Add the cheese, half-and-half, salt, and black pepper to pan; reduce heat, and cook 5 minutes or until cheese melts. Stir in mussels, and cook for 4 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Combine the mussel mixture, spinach, and pasta, tossing well.

Yield: 5 servings
Serving size: 1 1/2 C.

Calories: 445
Fat: 12.3g
Fiber: 4.2g

New Potatoes with Olive oil and Garlic

New Potatoes with Olive oil and Garlic

12 small new potatoes (1 lb. total)
1 T. plus 1 tsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 large clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp. salt
Pinch of freshly ground pepper

Peel off a 1/2-inch strip of skin around the center of each potato. Place the potatoes in a steamer set over simmering water. Cover and steam until tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and reserve. Heat the oil and garlic in a non-stick skillet large enough to hold the potatoes in one layer. Cook over medium heat until the garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the potatoes and roll them in the oil mixture. Season with salt and pepper.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 143
Fat: 4.1g
Fiber: 1.2g

New Potato Salad with Dried Tomatoes

New Potato Salad with Dried Tomatoes

3 lb small new potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 oz dried tomato halves
1/3 C. boiling water
2 T. olive oil
1 1/2 C. sliced celery
1/2 C. chopped celery leaves
4 green onions, sliced with some of the green
1/4 C. snipped fresh dill or
1 T. dried dill weed
1/3 C. reduced fat sour cream
1/3 C. lowfat plain yogurt
1 T. prepared white horseradish
1/4 tsp. pepper

Place potatoes in a large kettle with enough water to cover. Add 1/2 tsp. of the salt. Partially cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Boil gently for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender but still firm. Meanwhile, place dried tomatoes in a small bowl. Cover with boiling water. Let stand 10 minutes. Drain potatoes well; return to pot. Sprinkle olive oil and 1/2 tsp. of the salt over potatoes, tossing lightly to coat. Cut dried tomatoes into thin slivers and add to potatoes. Stir in celery, celery leaves, green onions, ad dill. Spoon into large bowl; cover and refrigerate at this point if preparing ahead. Combine sour cream, yogurt, horseradish, pepper and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt in a small bowl. Pour over potato mixture and toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 182
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 3g