Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

2 1/4 C. all-purpose flour
1 pkg Jello sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix — (4 serving size)
1/4 C. Brown Sugar Twin
2 T. pourable Sugar Twin
2/3 C. Carnation nonfat dry milk powder
1 T. pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/4 C. (1 ounce) mini chocolate chips
1/4 C. (1 ounce) chopped walnuts
2 C. (one 15-ounce can) pumpkin
1 egg or equivalent in egg substitute
3/4 C. Yoplait plain fat-free yogurt
1 T. & 1 tsp. vegetable oil

Preheat oven to 350º F. Spray a 12-hole muffin pan with butter-flavored cooking spray or line with paper liners. In a large bowl, combine flour, dry pudding mix, Brown Sugar Twin, dry milk powder, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts. In a small bowl, combine pumpkin, egg, and yogurt, and the vegetable oil. Mix gently to combine. Add pumpkin mixture to flour mixture. Mix just until combined. Evenly divide batter among prepared muffin wells. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Place muffin pan on a wire rack and let set 5 minutes. Remove muffins from pan and continue cooling on wire rack.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 172
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 2g

Chocolate-Raspberry Buttermilk Cupcakes

Chocolate-Raspberry Buttermilk Cupcakes

1 1/4 C. flour
3 T. unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
2 T. unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 T. extra-light olive oil
1/2 C. packed light brown sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/3 C. buttermilk
1/2 C. seedless raspberry jam
1 T. confectioners’ sugar

Preheat oven to 375°F. Line twelve 2-1/2-inch muffin-tin cups. with paper liners. In medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In large bowl, with electric mixer, beat butter, oil, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla and beat until well combined. On low speed, alternately beat in flour mixture and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Spoon one-third of batter into muffin cups. Make a small well in batter. Dividing evenly, spoon raspberry jam into each well. Spoon remaining batter evenly over raspberry jam. Bake 20 minutes, or until tops of cupcakes spring back when lightly touched. Turn cupcakes out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust tops of cooled cupcakes with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 167
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 1g

Shrimp in Spicy Garlic Sauce

Shrimp in Spicy Garlic Sauce

1 1/2 pounds peeled and deveined large shrimp
olive oil cooking spray
3 T. olive oil
9 large cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. crushed dried red chile peppers
1 tsp.Spanish paprika
2 T. minced parsley

Preheat oven to 450°F. Rinse shrimps and pat dry with paper towels. Lightly coat a large shallow ovenproof casserole with cooking spray. Arrange shrimps in the casserole in a single layer. Lightly coat with cooking spray and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic, chile peppers, and paprika. Bake for 5 minutes, until shrimps are pink and cooked through. Remove from oven and sprinkle with parsley. Serve warm with toothpicks for spearing the shrimps.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 92
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 0g

Cornish Game Hens Ricardo

Cornish Game Hens Ricardo

2 Cornish game hens, halved
1 C. chopped parsley
3 T. olive oil
5 cloves garlic, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
2 T. chopped fresh rosemary
1 C. white wine

In a small bowl, combine the garlic, parsley, and 2 T. olive oil. Rinse hens and pat dry. Rub remaining 1 T. olive oil on the inside and outside of the hens. Stuff the garlic and parsley mixture under skin and around each bird. Season with salt and pepper. Place seasoned hens in an airtight, plastic container. Sprinkle with rosemary, and pour wine over birds. Cover, and refrigerate at least overnight to marinate. Preheat grill for low heat. Remove hens from marinade, and place on heated grill. Cook for 40 minutes, turning once, or until done.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 294
Fat: 20.8g
Fiber: 0.7g

Green Poblano Rice

Green Poblano Rice

1 2/3 C. fat-free, sodium reduced chicken broth
2 poblano peppers, stems, membrane and seeds removed, chopped
12 sprigs cilantro (have some extra for garnish)
1/2 to 1 tsp. salt
1 T. vegetable or olive oil
1 C. medium grain white rice
1 small white onion, finely diced
5 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped

In a 2 quart saucepan, combine the broth and peppers, bring to a boil, then partially cover and simmer gently over medium to medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, until the peppers are soft (almost mushy). Pour the broth and chili mixture into a food processor, add the cilantro (stems and all are ok), and process to a smooth puree and stir in the salt. Wipe the pan clean, add the oil and heat over medium heat. Add the rice and onion, and cook, stirring regularly, until the rice is chalky looking and the onion is soft (about 5 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook a minute longer. Add the warm pepper liquid to the hot rice pan, stir once, scrape down any rice kernels clinging to the side of the pan, cover, and cook over medium-low heat for 15 minutes. Uncover and check a grain of rice: It should be nearly cooked through. If the rice is just about ready, turn off the heat, re-cover and let stand for 5 to 10 minutes longer to complete the cooking. If the rice seems far from done, continue cooking for 5 minutes or so, retest, then turn off the heat and let stand a few minutes longer. Fluff with a fork, scoop into a warm serving dish, decorate with cilantro sprigs and it’s ready to serve. If you want a hotter version, mix poblanos with hotter chilies like jalapeño, or the even hotter habanero. Grilled corn cut from 1 cob or 1 large grilled zucchini (cubed) are also good vegetable add-ins.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 245
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 2g

Honey-Vanilla Glazed Pork Roast with Wilted Spinach

Honey-Vanilla Glazed Pork Roast with Wilted Spinach

Pork
2 lb. boneless pork loin roast, trimmed
1/4 C. honey
2 T. white vinegar
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
1 tsp. Cumin
1 tsp. Basil Leaves

Spinach
1 T. olive oil
2 bags (6 oz. each) baby spinach
1/4 tsp. Cinnamon
1/8 tsp. Black Pepper
1/8 tsp. salt
1 can (11 oz.) mandarin oranges, drained OR 1 seedless orange, peeled and thinly sliced
2 T. pine nuts or slivered almonds, toasted

Preheat oven to 375°F. Place pork on a rack in a foil-lined roasting pan. Season with pepper and salt. Mix honey, vinegar, vanilla, cumin, and basil in a small bowl. Brush half of glaze on pork. Roast 1 hour or until internal temperature reaches 150°F, brushing with remaining glaze halfway through cooking. Let stand 10 minutes before slicing. Heat oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add spinach, cinnamon, pepper and salt; toss to coat. Sauté spinach until slightly wilted, about 2 1/2 minutes. Remove from heat. Toss in oranges and toasted pine nuts. Serve sliced pork over bed of spinach.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 218
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g

Nacho Popcorn

Nacho Popcorn

4 quarts air-popped corn
refrigerated butter-flavored cooking spray
2 tsp. ground cumin
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. onion powder
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp. Tabasco (optional)

Preheat oven to 300°F. Spread popped corn in a large baking pan. Lightly coat with cooking spray. Toss and coat again. Combine cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle over popcorn. Toss to coat evenly. Drizzle with Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco (if using). Toss again. Bake for 10 minutes, tossing once. Wrap tightly in a pouch made from a double sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil if not eating immediately.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 45
Fat: 1g
Fiber: 2g

Banana Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

Banana Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce

1/3 cup 1% low-fat milk
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 large egg
2 cups (1/2-inch) cubed French bread (about 2 (1-ounce) slices)
Cooking spray
1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 banana)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 tablespoons fat-free caramel topping
Powdered sugar (optional)

Combine the first 4 ingredients in a small bowl, and stir with a whisk. Place 1/2 cup bread cubes into each of 2 (8-ounce) ramekins coated with cooking spray. Spoon 2 tablespoons milk mixture over each serving, and top with 1/4 cup banana. Sprinkle each serving with 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar. Repeat procedure with remaining bread and milk mixture. Chill 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake at 350° for 50 minutes or until done. Spoon 1 tablespoon caramel sauce over each serving. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

Yield: 2 servings
Calories: 297
Fat: 4.5g
Fiber: 2.3g

Baby Cheesecakes

Baby Cheesecakes

Crust:
2-1/4 ounces chocolate wafers (one-fourth of a 9-ounce package)
1 T. sugar
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1 T. extra-light olive oil

Filling:
12 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchatel)
1/3 C. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1 whole egg
1 egg white
1-1/2 C. reduced-fat sour cream
1 T. bourbon or dark rum
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

Make crust: In a food processor, combine chocolate wafers (broken into largish pieces), sugar, cinnamon, salt, and olive oil. Process until fine crumbs form. Divide mixture evenly among six 6-ounce custard C. and press mixture onto the bottom and up sides of C.. Preheat oven to 350°F. Make filling: In same food processor bowl (no need to clean it), combine cream cheese, sugar, salt, whole egg, egg white, sour cream, bourbon, and vanilla. Process until smooth. Pour batter into prepared pans. Place pans on a baking sheet and bake 25 minutes. Turn off oven, prop door open, and leave cheesecakes in oven for 30 minutes. Refrigerate cheesecakes, covered, for at least four hours to firm up.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 367
Fat: 23g
Fiber: 0g

Fat-Free Toasted Tortilla Chips

Fat-Free Toasted Tortilla Chips

4 6-inch (15 cm) fat-free flour tortillas
juice of a large fresh lime, strained
chili powder or cayenne pepper

Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut each tortilla into 8 wedges. Pour the strained lime juice into a clean spray bottle. Lightly mist each tortilla triangle with the juice. If using, sprinkle lightly with chili powder or cayenne pepper. Place close together in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until chips are crisp. Serve warm.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 82
Fat: 0g
Fiber: 1g

Fricasseed Rabbit with Orzo

Fricasseed Rabbit with Orzo

1/2 pound cipolline or pearl onions, roots trimmed
olive oil cooking spray
crushed dried rosemary
crushed dried thyme
1 28-ounce can low-sodium Italian tomatoes, drained
1 T. olive oil
3 bay leaves
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 fresh sage leaves
2 sprigs fresh thyme
4 garlic cloves, slightly crushed and pealed
1 2-pound rabbit or chicken, cut into 8 serving pieces
1 C. dry Italian red wine
1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
salt (optional)
1 1/3 C. orzo
boiling salted water
chopped flat-leaf parsley

Preheat oven to 325F If using cipolline, peel them and cut in half through the root end. If using pearl onions, peel them and leave them whole. Place on a square of aluminum foil and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Sprinkle on crushed rosemary and thyme to taste. Fold over the foil and seal. Place the packet in the oven to bake until tender, 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, crush the tomatoes with a potato masher or fork. Set aside. In a large nonstick skillet with cover, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the bay leaves, rosemary, thyme, and garlic. Cook, stirring, until herbs are fragrant and garlic is golden, about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer herbs and garlic to a small bowl. Set aside. Increase the heat to high and add the rabbit pieces. Brown for 3 minutes per side, turning once. Add the wine, pepper, nutmeg, and salt (if using). Simmer for 1 minute, stirring with a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits. Add the tomatoes and reserved herbs. Reduce heat to low, cover, and gently simmer until rabbit is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, 20 to 30 minutes. Cut to test. When rabbit is almost done, bring a pot of lightly salted water to a rapid boil. Stir in orzo, bring back to a boil and cook, uncovered, for 9 to 10 minutes, until orzo is tender. Drain well and keep warm. Transfer rabbit pieces to one end of a large platter. Remove the cipolline from the oven and place in the center next to the rabbit.Spoon the orzo onto the other end of platter. Remove the bay leaves and herb stems from the sauce mixture in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a rapid boil and cook, stirring, for another 2 to 3 minutes to reduce to desired thickness. Spoon sauce over rabbit. Scatter parsley over all and serve.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 281
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 2g

Olive Swirl Rolls

Olive Swirl Rolls

3 tsp. olive oil, divided
1/4 C. chopped shallot or red onion
11/2 T. chopped fresh or 11/2 tsp. dried basil
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/4-1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1 (4.25-ounce) can black olives, drained and finely chopped (about 3/4 C.)
3/4 C. bottled roasted red and yellow peppers, drained and coarsely chopped
2 tsp. red wine vinegar
Coarse salt to taste
1 loaf frozen wheat bread dough (such as Rhodes), thawed per package directions
1/4 C. freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Vegetable cooking spray or canola oil

Preheat the oven to 325F. Place a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add 2 tsp. oil and the shallots. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shallots begin to soften. Stir in the next three ingredients; cook for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and stir in the olives, peppers, and vinegar. Taste for seasoning and add salt as needed. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a 12- 3 9-inch rectangle. Spread the olive mixture over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle 2 T. of the cheese over the olive mixture. Roll the dough up lengthwise (like a carpet) and pinch the ends closed. Slice gently with a serrated knife into 1-inch-width rolls; place the rolls on a baking sheet lightly coated with cooking spray or oil. Brush the rolls with the remaining tsp. of oil and cover with plastic wrap; let rise, away from drafts, for 30 minutes or until doubled in bulk. Uncover the rolls and sprinkle with the remaining 2 T. Parmesan cheese. Bake at 325F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature. Note: These rolls freeze well.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 144
Fat: 4.8g
Fiber: 1.8g

Cheese and Chile Rolls

Cheese and Chile Rolls

1 large plum tomato, blanched, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 1/2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 medium pickled jalapeno pepper, drained, seeded and minced
4 flour tortillas (6″ diameter)

Preheat oven to 350o F. Line a baking sheet with foil. In small bowl, combine tomato, cheese and jalapeno pepper. Divide cheese mixture evenly among tortillas. Roll tortillas to enclose filling; secure with toothpicks. Place on prepared baking sheet; bake 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and rolls are piping hot.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 111
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 1g

Chili-Rubbed Cornish Hens with Tangerine Sauce

Chili-Rubbed Cornish Hens with Tangerine Sauce

1 T. plus 1 tsp. chili powder
1/2 tsp. salt
2 Cornish game hens (1-1/2 pounds each), cut into quarters
1 tsp. olive oil, preferably extra-virgin
1/3 C. frozen tangerine or orange juice concentrate, thawed
1 C. water
2 T. brown sugar
1 T. ketchup
1 T. light molasses
1 tsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 T. cornstarch
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
3 tangerines, separated into sections
1 C. finely diced red bell pepper

Preheat broiler. Spray broiler pan rack with nonstick cooking spray. In a small bowl or C., combine chili powder and salt. Rub hens on cut sides and under skin with chili powder mixture. Place them skin-side up in a single layer on prepared broiler pan and drizzle with oil. Broil hens 5 to 6 inches from heat 25 to 30 minutes, turning pieces several times, until browned and cooked through. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, whisk together tangerine juice concentrate, water, brown sugar, ketchup, molasses, soy sauce, cornstarch, and cayenne until smooth. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly, and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in tangerine sections and bell pepper. Cover sauce and let stand at least 10 minutes, or until hens are done.. Serve sauce with hens. Remove skin before eating.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 335
Fat: 6.8g
Fiber: 2.5g

Grilled Flank Steak Roulade

Grilled Flank Steak Roulade

One 15-ounce trimmed flank steak
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
1 T. raisins, coarsely chopped
1 ounce pine nuts (pignolia), coarsely chopped
2 tsp. coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Prepare grill for a medium fire, using direct method. Season steak with salt and pepper; evenly distribute garlic, raisins, pine nuts and parsley over 1 side of steak. Starting at smaller end, tightly roll up steak jelly-roll fashion. Secure lengthwise with metal skewer; close ends with toothpicks to keep filling enclosed. Grill steak 25-30 minutes, turning to brown well on all sides. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes before slicing. Remove skewer and toothpicks; carefully carve meat so that each slice stays intact. Divide evenly among 4 plates and serve.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 206
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 1g

Banana-Date Flaxseed Bread

Banana-Date Flaxseed Bread

1/2 cup flaxseeds
2/3 cup mashed ripe banana
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup flaxseeds
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup whole pitted dates, chopped
Cooking spray

Place 1/2 cup flaxseeds in a blender, and process until ground to measure 3/4 cup flaxseed meal. Set flaxseed meal aside. Preheat oven to 350°. Beat the banana, sugar, oil, and eggs at medium speed of a mixer until well-blended. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups, and level with a knife. Combine flour, flaxseed meal, 1/4 cup flaxseeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, and gradually add to sugar mixture, beating until well-blended. Stir in chopped dates. Spoon the batter into an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan coated with cooking spray. Bake bread at 350° for 55 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pan on a wire rack, and remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack.

Yield: 16 servings
Calories: 129
Fat: 4.3g
Fiber: .9g

Mixed Greens with Peppered Turnips

Mixed Greens with Peppered Turnips

2 lb. mixed greens (mustard, turnip, or collard greens, and/or kale)
1 C. water
1 C. chopped onion
1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder
1 tsp. Seasoned Salt
1 tsp. Ground Black Pepper , divided
1 smoked turkey wing or smoked turkey drumstick
2 cans (14 oz. each) chicken broth
2 turnips, peeled and cut into quarters

Remove stems from greens. Wash leaves thoroughly. Coarsely chop leaves; set aside. Combine water, onion, seasoned salt, 1/2 tsp. pepper, garlic powder, chicken broth and smoked turkey* in a large stockpot or Dutch oven; bring to a boil. Add greens; cover, reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes on medium-low heat. Add turnips and sprinkle them with remaining pepper. Cover, simmer 30 minutes or until greens are tender. If desired, use slab bacon or ham hock instead of smoked turkey.

Yield: 8 servings
Servings: 1 C.

Calories: 62
Fat: 2g
Fiber: 2g

Easy Creamy Ham and Pasta Dish

Easy Creamy Ham and Pasta Dish

2 cups uncooked pasta
1 cup frozen peas
6 ounces extra lean cooked ham, cut up
6 ounces low fat cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup skim milk

Cook pasta according to the package directions, adding frozen peas the last 6 minutes of cooking time and ham the last minute of cooking time. Drain; return to pan. In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese and milk; stir into hot cooked pasta mixture. Cook and stir over low heat 1 to 2 minutes or just until thoroughly heated.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 370
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g

Island Fish Chowder

Island Fish Chowder

2 ounces salt pork, diced
2 T. vegetable oil
1 C. diced potatoes
1/2 C. chopped onion
1/2 C. sliced carrots
1/2 C. chopped celery
1/2 C. chopped green pepper
2 bay leaves
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
1 Scotch bonnet chile
1/4 C. tomato paste
2 medium tomatoes, diced
4 C. water
1/2 pound grouper or other fish, cut
into 1-inch pieces
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook pork in oil until light brown in Dutch oven. Add vegetables; cook and stir until vegetables are tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the bay leaves, thyme, chile, tomatoes, tomato paste and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook over low heat for 15 minutes. Spoon off fat and add the fish. Continue cooking until fish is done, about 10 to 15 minutes. (Scallops, shrimp, etc. may be added to recipe if desired.)

Yields 6 servings
Calories: 193
Fat: 13.g
Fiber: 10.8g

Spicy Caribbean Tailgate Pockets

Spicy Caribbean Tailgate Pockets

1 package McCormick� Grill Mates� Spicy Caribbean Marinade
1/4 C. water
2 T. pineapple or orange juice
1 T. brown sugar
1 T. vinegar
1 lb. kielbasa, cut into 1/4-inch slices
1 large bell pepper, cut into bite-size strips
1 medium onion, cut into bite-size strips
4 18-inch square sheets of heavy duty aluminum foil
4 whole wheat pita bread

Blend first five ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Divide sausage, pepper and onion into center of foil squares. Create a packet by bringing up foil sides over 4 times. Then, fold one end 4 times (leaving one end open). Repeat to make 4 packets. Pour an even amount of marinade into opening of each packet. Seal packet by folding remaining end 4 times. Shake packets to coat mixture. Place packets on preheated grill for 45 minutes, turning halfway through cooking time. Remove packets from grill. Carefully open one end of each packet to allow steam to escape. Cool 2-3 minutes. Serve meat and vegetable mixture in pita halves

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 248
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g

Fried Plantain with Spicy Tomato Relish

Fried Plantain with Spicy Tomato Relish

3/4 C. chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 T. cooking oil
1 C. chopped tomato
1 C. chopped red sweet pepper
1/2 of a 6-ounce can tomato paste (1/3 C.)
1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded, if desired, and finely chopped
Salt
Pepper
2 ripe plantains
1/2 C. cooking oil

In a medium saucepan cook onion and garlic in the 1 T. hot oil about 5 minutes or until tender. Stir in tomato, chopped red sweet pepper, tomato paste, and jalapeno pepper. Cook, uncovered, over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until desired consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and keep warm. Meanwhile, peel plantains and halve lengthwise or cut long diagonal slices 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. In a large skillet heat the 1/2 C. oil over medium heat. Fry plantain halves or diagonal slices in hot oil about 4 minutes or until tender and golden, turning once. Carefully remove from skillet and place on a cutting board. Using the back of a spatula, press to flatten plantain halves to 1/4-inch thickness. Return to skillet; fry 1 to 2 minutes more or until heated through, turning once. Drain on paper towels. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with warm tomato relish. Makes 4 servings. *Note: Because chili peppers contain very pungent oils, be sure to protect your hands when preparing them. Put gloves or sandwich bags over your hands so your skin doesn’t come in contact with the peppers. Always wash your hands and nails thoroughly in hot, soapy water after handling chili peppers. Make-ahead tip: Prepare relish; cover and chill up to 1 week. Reheat to serve.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 295
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g

Chicken Saltimbocca

Chicken Saltimbocca

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 T. olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 leaves fresh sage
8 thin slices Gruyere cheese (about 1/4 pound)
8 thin slices prosciutto

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Rub the chicken breast halves with olive oil and season to taste with salt and pepper. Place three sage leaves on each chicken breast and top with two pieces of the cheese. Wrap two slices of prosciutto around each chicken breast and place in a 9-by-13-inch glass baking dish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until internal temperature is 175 when checked with an instant-read meat thermometer.

Yield: 4 serving
Calories: 350
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 0g

Crab-Stuffed Poblano Chilies with Mango Salsa

Crab-Stuffed Poblano Chilies with Mango Salsa

1 C. chopped peeled mango
1/3 C. chopped red bell pepper
2 T. chopped fresh cilantro
1 T. balsamic or white wine vinegar
3 T. grated fresh Romano or Parmesan cheese, divided
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 (15-ounce) carton fat-free ricotta cheese
1 (14-ounce) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained
1 (6-ounce) can lump crab meat, drained
4 (5-inch) poblano chilies, halved lengthwise and seeded
Cilantro sprigs (optional)

Combine first four ingredients in a small bowl; stir well. Cover and chill. Preheat oven to 350-degrees.
Combine 2 T. Romano cheese, oregano, mustard, pepper, and ricotta cheese in a food processor, and process until smooth. Spoon into a bowl, and stir in artichokes and crab meat. Divide mixture evenly among the Chile halves, and sprinkle with 1 T. Romano cheese. Place stuffed chilies on a baking sheet, and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve chilies with mango salsa, and garnish with cilantro sprigs, if desired.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 2 Chile halves and 1/3 C. salsa

Calories: 225
Fat: 2.4g
Fiber: 1.2g

Best-Ever Chocolate Shakes

Best-Ever Chocolate Shakes

1/4 C. nonfat milk
1/4 C. Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup
1 quart fat-free vanilla ice cream, softened
3/4 tsp. pure vanilla extract

Combine milk, chocolate syrup and ice cream in a blender and blend until nearly smooth. Add vanilla and blend until smooth, about 30 seconds longer. Stir and pour into glasses.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 253
Total fat: 0g
Fiber: 0g

Banana-Oat Quick Bread

Banana-Oat Quick Bread

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup quick-cooking oats
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup mashed ripe banana
1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup egg substitute or 2 large egg whites
Cooking spray
1/4 cup quick-cooking oats
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped walnuts
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons butter or stick margarine

Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups, and level with a knife. Combine flour and next 4 ingredients (flour through salt) in a large bowl; make a well in center of mixture. Combine banana, buttermilk, oil, and egg substitute in a bowl; add to flour mixture. Stir just until moist. Spoon batter into an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan coated with cooking spray. Combine 1/4 cup oats, walnuts, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and butter, and sprinkle over batter. Bake at 350° for 1 hour or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes in pan on a wire rack; remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack.

Yield: 16 servings
Calories: 170
Fat: 5.2g
Fiber: 1.4g

Cube Steaks with Bleu Cheese

Cube Steaks with Bleu Cheese

4 cube steaks
4 T. crumbled bleu cheese
1/8 C. red onion, finely chopped
salt and pepper to taste

Peheat broiler. Meanwhile, in a skillet, brown cube steaks to your liking. Add salt and pepper to taste. Blot grease off meat and place in a broiler pan. Top each steak with bleu cheese and red onion. Stick under the broiler to melt. Then serve.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 238
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 0g

Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Two 1-pint baskets cherry tomatoes
3/4 C. crumbled blue cheese
3 ounces nonfat cream cheese
2 tsp. minced fresh thyme, or 1 tsp. dried
Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)

Slice 1/4″ off the bottom of each tomato, reserving the bottoms. In a small bowl, combine the cheeses and thyme. Dab about 1/2 tsp. of the mixture on the cut edge of each tomato. Cover each with a tomato bottom. Arrange the tomatoes upside-down (the “dimples” on the stem end will keep them upright) on a large serving tray and garnish with the thyme sprigs (if using). Serve at once, or refrigerate, covered, up to 2 hours (let stand at room temperature 30 minutes before serving).

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 72
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 1g

Cranberry Muffins

Cranberry Muffins

1 1/2 C. unbleached white flour
1 C. whole-wheat flour
2 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 C. sugar
1/2 C. unsweetened applesauce
2 T. canola oil
1/4 C. orange juice
1 tsp. orange extract
1 C. fresh cranberries

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Combine the flours, baking powder, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Add the dry ingredients slowly to the large bowl and mix until blended. Do not over beat. Pour the batter into 12 nonstick muffin C. and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Remove muffins from oven and let cool slightly. Remove muffins from pan and let cool completely. To lower the calories even more you can substitute Splenda for the sugar.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 152
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 2g

Rhubarb Sorbet

Rhubarb Sorbet

5 C. sliced rhubarb (about 1 1/4 lb.)
1 quart water
1/2 C. granulated sugar
1/2 C. packed brown sugar
1 T. fresh lemon juice

Combine rhubarb and water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil; cook 10 minutes. Remove from heat; strain mixture through a sieve into a bowl, pressing rhubarb with the back of a spoon to remove as much liquid as possible. Discard rhubarb. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, and juice; stir until sugars dissolve. Cover and chill. Pour mixture into the freezer can of an ice-cream freezer; freeze according to manufacturer’s instructions. Spoon sorbet into a freezer-safe container; cover and freeze 1 hour or until firm. Remove sorbet from freezer 10 minutes before serving.

Yield: 8 servings
Serving size: 1/2 C.

Calories: 107
Fat: 0.1g
Fiber: 0.1g

Grilled Plantains

Grilled Plantains

4 to 6 plantains

Set up your grill for direct grilling and preheat to high. Cut the ends off the plantains and cut each plantain sharply on the diagonal into two inch pieces. (It is important to cut the plantains sharply on the diagonal to maximize the surface area exposed to the fire.) Grill the plantains until the skins are charred, the exposed flesh is darkly caremelized, and the flesh in the center is soft. (Squeeze the plantains between your fingers to test for doneness.) This will take 4 to 8 minutes per side. Turn the pieces with tongs to insure even cooking. Serve the grilled plantains in the skins, but instruct your guests to cut off the skins before eating.

Yield: 4-6 servings
Serving Size 1 plantain

Calories: 145
Fat: 0g
Fiber: 3g

Banana-Oatmeal Bread

Banana-Oatmeal Bread

1 cup packed brown sugar
7 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 large egg whites
1 large egg
1 1/3 cups mashed ripe banana (about 2 large)
1 cup regular oats
1/2 cup fat-free milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350°. Combine first 4 ingredients in a large bowl; beat well at medium speed of a mixer. Combine banana, oats, and milk; add to sugar mixture, beating well. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; stir with a whisk. Add to sugar mixture; beat just until moist. Spoon batter into a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 1 hour and 10 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pan on a wire rack; remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack.

Yield: 18 servings
Calories: 185
Fat: 6.1g
Fiber: 1.3g

Broiled Asian Steak

Broiled Asian Steak

Marinade:
1 garlic clove, minced
1 T. canola oil
1 T. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. soy sauce
1 tsp. wasabi paste (Japanese horseradish) or 2 tsp. prepared horseradish
1/4 tsp. fresh ground pepper
few drops liquid hot pepper sauce

2 pounds top round steak, cut 1-inch thick and trimmed of all fat

In a shallow glass dish, combine marinade ingredients, mixing well. Using a sharp knife, score the steak in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/8-inch deep. Place steak in dish; turn to coat both sides with marinade. Let stand for 30 minutes, turning steak several times. Preheat broiler or light the grill. Drain off marinade into a small pan. Set aside. Broil or grill, 4 inches from source of heat, to desired doneness, turning once. Cut to test (it will take 8 to 10 minutes for medium-rare). Bring reserved marinade to a boil over high heat. To serve, cut steak across the grain into thin, slanted slices.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 204
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 0g

Spicy Garlic Couscous

Spicy Garlic Couscous

1 tsp. vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 C. low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 tsp. dried red pepper flakes
6 ounces dry couscous

In medium saucepan, heat oil; add garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 1 minute, until tender but not browned. Add broth and red pepper flakes to garlic; bring to a boil. Stir in couscous; remove from heat. Let stand, covered, 10 minutes, until liquid is absorbed.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 185
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 1g

Chipotle, Tomato, and Roasted Vegetable Salad

Chipotle, Tomato, and Roasted Vegetable Salad

Salad:
1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped onion
1 1/3 cups coarsely chopped green bell pepper
1 1/3 cups coarsely chopped yellow bell pepper
Cooking spray
1 1/3 cups chopped seeded tomato
1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro

Dressing:
1 (7-ounce) can chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt

Preheat broiler. To prepare salad, place first 3 ingredients on a large baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Lightly coat onion mixture with cooking spray; broil 8 minutes or until onion and bell peppers begin to blacken, stirring once. Place onion mixture in a bowl; cool. Add tomato and cilantro to onion mixture. To prepare the dressing, remove 1 chile from can, and chop to measure 1 1/2 teaspoons. Reserve the remaining chiles and sauce for another use. Combine the chile, vinegar, oil, and salt, and stir with a whisk. Drizzle over onion mixture; toss gently to coat.

Yield: 12 servings
Serving size: 1/3 cup

Calories: 28
Fat: 1.1g
Fiber: 1g

Orzo Pilaf with Onions & Basil

Orzo Pilaf with Onions & Basil

1 T. olive oil
2 large onions, finely chopped
3 shallots, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 C. (4-1/2 ounces) orzo
1 C. chicken broth
1 C. water
1/2 tsp. salt
1 C. frozen peas
1/4 C. chopped fresh basil
1/4 C. grated Parmesan cheese

In a medium nonstick saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions, shallots, and garlic, and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden brown and tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the orzo. Add the broth, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes or until the orzo is tender. Stir in the peas and cook until heated through, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat and stir in the basil and Parmesan.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 220
Fat: 6.5g
Fiber: 3g

Garlicky Red Beans and Pork

Garlicky Red Beans and Pork

1 T. + 1 tsp. olive or vegetable oil
10 ounces boneless pork loin, cut into 1 1/2″ cubes
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 C. chopped red onions
6 garlic cloves, minced
2 C. coarsely chopped tomatoes
6 ounces dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight, rinsed and drained
1/4 C. drained canned mild or hot chopped green chile peppers
1/2 tsp. ground cumin

In large saucepan, heat oil; add pork and black pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, 8-10 minutes, until pork is cooked through and lightly
browned. Add onions and garlic; cook, stirring frequently, 8 minutes longer, until onions are tender. Stir tomatoes, beans, chile peppers, cumin and 1/2 C. water into pork mixture; bring liquid to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cook, covered, 50-60 minutes, until beans are tender.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 328
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 6g

Tomato Pie in Zucchini Crust

Tomato Pie in Zucchini Crust

Olive oil cooking spray
1 lb. zucchini, grated, all liquid squeezed out
3 scallions, white part and 1 inch green, chopped
2 large cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
4 fluid oz. egg substitute
1/2 C. dry unseasoned bread crumbs
Freshly ground pepper
1 C. grated skim milk mozzarella cheese
1/4 C. freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 T. reduced calorie mayonnaise
1 lb. fresh tomatoes, thinly sliced
2 T. minced fresh basil

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Also coat a 9-inch pie pan with cooking spray. Set aside. Add the grated, squeezed dry zucchini, scallions, garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Cook over high heat until the zucchini and other vegetables are softened. Remove from heat. Add 2 fluid oz. of the egg substitute, bread crumbs, and pepper. Press into the bottom and sides of the pie pan. Bake for 15 minutes. In a small bowl, combine the two cheeses, mayonnaise and remaining egg substitute. Spread on top of the baked shell. Top with overlapping circles of tomato slices. Coat with cooking spray, Bake for 30 minutes until the pie is browned and set when a tester inserted near the center comes out clean. Serve warm or cold.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 153 calories
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 2g

Aztec Corn Soup with Yucca and Plantains

Aztec Corn Soup with Yucca and Plantains

2 T. butter
1 C. chopped yellow onion
1 C. sliced celery
1 C. chopped carrot
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces yucca root (also called cassava), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 plantain, peeled and chopped
3 C. low-sodium chicken broth
1 C. water
3 T. lemon juice
1 tsp. grated orange peel
1 C. corn kernels, fresh or frozen and thawed
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro or parsley

Melt butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Sauté onion, celery, carrot, and garlic for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Stir in yucca, plantain, broth, water, lemon juice, and orange peel. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, partially covered, for 30-40 minutes, or until yucca and plantain are tender. Remove half the soup (about 3 C.) to a food processor or blender; cover and process until puréed. Return puréed mixture to saucepan and stir in corn, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through. Sprinkle each serving with cilantro or parsley and serve.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 195
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 6g

Low-Fat Lime Butter Chicken

Low-Fat Lime Butter Chicken

4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 C. fat-free chicken stock, divided use
juice of one lime
2 tsp. cornstarch
1 T. chives, chopped
1 tsp. dried dill, crushed
1 T. butter

Lightly salt and pepper the chicken breasts on both sides. Spray a skillet with non-stick cooking spray. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken to skillet and cook for about 3 minutes, or until browned on one side, before turning to brown the other side.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 130
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 0g

Herb-Roasted Rabbit with Pomegranates

Herb-Roasted Rabbit with Pomegranates

2 2-pound rabbits, each cut into 6 pieces
1 T. olive oil
3 ounces Canadian bacon, minced
3 large shallots, minced
2 T. crushed dried rosemary
1 C. fat-free no-salt-added canned chicken broth
1/4 C. dry white wine
seeds of 1 pomegranate
rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Preheat the oven to 400F (200C), Gas Mark 6. Rinse rabbit pieces and pat dry. Heat oil over medium-high heat; add Canadian bacon and saut until browned, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add shallots and continue to saut for 4 minutes, until shallots are limp. Using a slotted spoon, remove bacon mixture; drain on paper towels. Add the rabbit pieces to the skillet and saut for 5 minutes per sides until nicely browned, turning once. Transfer rabbit pieces to a roasting pan. Top with bacon mixture and rosemary. Add chicken broth to the pan. Cover with aluminum foil and roast for 50 to 60 minutes until rabbit is tender. Arrange rabbit on a heated serving platter; keep warm.
Place roasting pan on top of the stove and stir in dry white wine. Cook over medium-high heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, until reduced by 1/3. Add pomegranate seeds and heat through. Spoon sauce and seeds over the rabbit pieces and garnish with rosemary sprigs, if desired.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 209
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 0g