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Cheddar Crackers

Cheddar Crackers

 

6 ¼ ounces all-purpose flour

4 ounces (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, diced

8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar

1 teaspoon nigella seeds

¼ teaspoon powdered mustard

Generous pinch cayenne pepper

Several drops Worcestershire sauce

½ teaspoon kosher salt

3 tablespoons water

 

Combine all of the ingredients in a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and mix on low for about 3 minutes, or until the dough comes together. Transfer the dough to a sheet of parchment paper and roll into a 2-inch log. Refrigerate for about 45 minutes, or until firm. Preheat the oven to 400˚F. Unwrap the dough and cut into 3/16-inch slices. Arrange the slices about an inch apart on parchment-lined baking trays. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until lightly browned. Transfer crackers to a rack to cool. Makes 4 to 5 dozen crackers. This is an extremely versatile recipe; try experimenting with different cheeses and flavorings. For example, instead of nigella, try freshly cracked black pepper—a very coarse grind is best. Or substitute Parmegiano-Reggiano and 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary for the cheddar and nigella, omitting the mustard, cayenne, and Worcestershire.

Cheddar Grit Cakes with Roasted Peppers

Cheddar Grit Cakes with Roasted Peppers

Grits:
1 C. 1% low-fat milk
1 (14-oz.) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
3/4 C. uncooked quick-cooking grits
2 tsp. minced jalape�o pepper
1/2 C. (2 oz.) shredded extrasharp cheddar cheese
Cooking spray

Peppers:
3 medium red or orange bell peppers
2 tsp. extravirgin olive oil
1 tsp. balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1/4 tsp. salt

To prepare grits, bring the milk and broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in grits and jalape�o. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or until thick. Stir in the cheese; cook until cheese melts. Spread grits into a 9-inch square baking pan coated with cooking spray; cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or until set. To prepare peppers, cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise; discard seeds and membranes. Place pepper halves, skin sides up, on a foil-lined baking sheet, and flatten with hand. Broil 15 minutes or until blackened. Place in a zip-top plastic bag; seal. Let stand 15 minutes. Peel and cut into 1-inch strips. Combine peppers, oil, vinegar, coriander, and salt; toss well. Invert grits onto a cutting board. Cut grits into 4 (4 1/2-inch) squares. Cut each square diagonally into 2 triangles. Heat a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Add triangles; cook 4 minutes on each side or until lightly browned. Serve pepper mixture over grit cakes. Prepare the peppers up to a day ahead, then reheat them in the microwave before serving. This frees the oven so you can roast the chicken.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 2 grit cakes and 1/2 C. pepper mixture

Calories: 247
Fat: 8.2g
Fiber: 2.5g

Apple-Cheddar Popovers

Apple-Cheddar Popovers

butter-flavored cooking spray
1 tart apple, such as Pippin, Granny Smith, or Fuji, peeled, cored, and chopped
1/3 C. shredded 2% sharp cheddar cheese
2 large eggs
1 C. unbleached all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1 C. low fat (1%) milk
1 T. stick reduced-fat margarine, melted

Preheat oven to 450�F. Lightly coat 8 popover cups with cooking spray. Place 1 T. each of the apple and cheese at the bottom of each popover cups. In a food processor or blender, combine eggs, flour, and salt. Process until well blended. With the machine running, add milk and margarine through the feed tube. Process until smooth. Fill the C. two-thirds full with the batter. Bake for 15 minutes, reduce oven temperature to 350�F, and continue to bake for another 20 minutes until popovers are puffed and golden brown. Let cool at least 15 minutes, then remove from pan.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 111
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 1g

Broccoli with Burrata, Pine Nuts and Warm Anchovy Vinaigrette

Broccoli with Burrata, Pine Nuts and Warm Anchovy Vinaigrette

3/4 C. (about 80g) fresh breadcrumbs (preferably from sourdough bread)
1/3 C. (80ml) plus 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 C. (70g) pine nuts
1 tsp. flat-leaf parsley, chopped
about 1 lb. (450g) Italian broccoli, sprouting broccoli or broccolini, trimmed
4 tsp. (60g) unsalted butter
2-3 anchovy filets
pinch dried chili flakes
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. fresh thyme
1 lb. (450g) burrata or fresh buffalo mozzarella
1 medium shallot, sliced
juice of 1 lemon, plus more for serving
salt and pepper

Preheat the oven to 375F/190C. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat. Toss the breadcrumbs with one tsp. olive oil. Spread them on a baking sheet, and toast 8-10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until golden brown and crispy. Spread the pine nuts on another baking sheet, and toast them 4-5 minutes, until they’re golden brown and smell nutty. Crush half the pine nuts in a mortar and combine them with the whole pine nuts, breadcrumbs and parsley in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Blanch the broccoli in the rapidly-boiling water for 2-3 minutes, until just tender. Drain and set aside to cool. Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1/3 C. olive oil and the butter in a large sauté pan over low heat. Add the anchovy and chili and cook 5 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon as the anchovy melts into the sauce. Add the garlic and thyme and turn off the heat. The garlic will finish cooking in the hot oil. Pour out into a small bowl and season with a generous pinch of salt. Don’t wash out the pan. Cut the burrata or mozzarella into 6 slices, and then cut each slice in half. Place the sauté pan over high heat. Add the anchovy butter, shallots, and broccoli, and season with salt, pepper and a squeeze or two of lemon juice. Toss well to warm the broccoli and coat it with the anchovy butter. Taste for seasoning and add more salt, pepper and lemon juice as needed. Arrange half the broccoli on a large platter in one layer. Tuck half the burrata slices among the broccoli and continue layering the remaining broccoli and burrata. Shower the pine nut breadcrumbs over the top. Serve with additional lemon slices for squeezing.

Mozzarella Cheese Puffs

Mozzarella Cheese Puffs

 

1 cup flour, sifted

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. Paprika

1/2 cup butter or margarine

6 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese

 

Sift the dry ingredients together. Cream the butter and the cheese. Add the dry ingredients and mix well. Shape the mixture into small balls about 1″ in diameter. Place them on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake them for about 15 to 20 minutes at 350 degrees.  Also substitute different cheeses. I might use cheddar with chopped walnuts or provolone, sun-dried tomatos, and basil.

Cheddar Shrimp Nachos

Cheddar Shrimp Nachos

3/4 lb. peeled deveined, cooked shrimp 

1 1/2 C. shredded cheddar cheese

1 (4 oz.) can chopped green chilies, drained 

1/3 C. chopped green onions 

1/4 C. sliced ripe olives, drained 

1/2 C. mayonnaise 

1/4 tsp. ground cumin 

48 tortilla chips, scoops 

 

Combine the shrimp, cheese, chilies, onions and olives. Combine the mayo and cumin; add to shrimp mixture and toss to coat. Place about a T. of the shrimp mixture into each tortilla scoop and place on baking sheets.  Bake at 350° for 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve warm.

Cheddar Pinecone

Cheddar Pinecone

8 oz. cream cheese, softened
8 oz. Cheddar cheese spread
1 T. horseradish
1/2 tsp. hot pepper sauce
Whole almonds
Rosemary sprigs

 

Blend first 4 ingredients. Shape into an oval. Stud with almonds. Garnish with rosemary.

Smokey Havarti, Caramelized Onions & Fig Jam Grilled Cheese

Smokey Havarti, Caramelized Onions & Fig Jam Grilled Cheese

Smokey Havarti, Caramelized Onions & Fig Jam Grilled Cheese

2 slices Bread

Thin slices of Smokey Havarti cheese

1/2 onion sliced thin

2 T. fig jam

3 T. softened butter

Instructions

 

In a small frying pan, add 1 T. butter and sliced onions. Cook on med-low heat cook until softened and lightly browned while stirring occasionally. Cook about 20 – 25 minutes. Set aside. Butter one side of each piece of bread. Add cheese slices to the other side of the bread until covered (opposite of the buttered side). On one slice of the bread, spread the fig jam over the cheese. On the other slice, spread the onions over the cheese. Place the slices of bread (buttered side down) in the pan on medium low and cover with a lid. It only takes a minute or two for the bread toast and the cheese to melt. Once bread is browned, take out of pan on a plate and put sandwich together. Cut in half and serve.

Appetizer Cheese Gift Box

Appetizer Cheese Gift Box

1/2 T. butter

1/2 C. finely diced leeks (white part; reserve green part for ribbon and bow)

1 T. minced garlic

1-1/2 tsp. thyme

1/4 tsp. each salt and pepper

1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened

1 log (4 oz.) goat cheese, softened

Thinly sliced medium radishes, cut in triangles

 

Line a 5-1/2″x 3″ loaf pan with plastic wrap so that ends extend and can be wrapped over top of pan. In skillet, cook leeks in butter 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook 1 minute longer. Cool. In bowl, beat cheeses until smooth; blend in leek mixture. Spoon into prepared loaf pan; spread evenly. Cover with plastic wrap. Chill 24 hours until very firm. Uncover, invert onto serving plate; remove plastic wrap. To make bow, drop reserved green leaves into boiling water just until color brightens. Immediately remove with slotted spoon and plunge into ice water. Remove when cool and pat dry. Place one long or two medium strips lengthwise on top and down sides. Place another “ribbon” crosswise. Place large loops on loaf lengthwise to make bow loops. Place a short loop in the middle to form the knot. Place 2″ notched pieces as shown for bow ends. Press radishes randomly on package.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Ravioli with Seven Herbs & Ricotta (Ravioli Alle Sette Erbe)

Ravioli with Seven Herbs & Ricotta (Ravioli Alle Sette Erbe)

Ravioli with Seven Herbs & Ricotta (Ravioli Alle Sette Erbe)

 

1 1/2 (680 g) lb. ricotta

1/4 C. loosely packed basil leaves

1/4 C. roughly chopped flat-leaf parsley

1 T. roughly chopped mint

1 T. sliced chives

1 T. roughly chopped chervil

1 tsp. roughly chopped oregano

1 tsp. thyme leaves

Kosher salt

1/4 C. (59 ml) extra-virgin olive oil

1 recipe egg pasta dough

2 T. freshly grated pecorino cheese, plus more for serving

 

In a food processor fitted with the blade attachment, add the ricotta, the herbs, and 2 tsp. of the salt. Process until the herbs are chopped. With the motor running, gradually add the oil in a steady stream until it is incorporated, the herbs are finely chopped, and the mixture is the consistency of mayonnaise. Reserve 1/3 C. of the cheese mixture and set aside. Divide the dough into four pieces. Using a pasta machine, roll the dough out, starting with the widest setting and then going down until the dough is 1/8 inch thick. Lay out one sheet of pasta. Drop tsp. of filling down one side of the pasta sheet at 1/2-inch intervals. Fold the pasta over the filling and gently press out any air between the filling and the dough. With a fluted pastry cutter, cut the ravioli into small squares (about 1 1/2 inches) and place on a lightly floured baking sheet. Finish the remaining ravioli in the same fashion. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Drop the ravioli into the boiling water and cook until they rise to the surface, 2 to 3 minutes. Reserve !4 C. of the pasta water, then drain the ravioli. Toss the ravioli in a bowl with the reserved cheese filling, a little of the pasta water, and the pecorino cheese. Serve immediately with more cheese if desired.

Welsh Rabbits

Welsh Rabbits

Welsh Rabbits

1/3 c grated Cheddar

1 egg yolk

1 tsp cream or milk

2 or 3 drops Worcestershire sauce (or to taste)

Pepper, to season

1 English muffin, split and lightly toasted

Peas, thin slices of carrot or snow peas, 1 black olive (pitted and halved) a few fresh chives and scallion, to garnish

 

Preheat the broiler to high. Put the cheese, egg yolk, cream and Worcestershire sauce into a bowl and mash together. Season to taste with pepper.  Spread the cheese mixture on the cut sides of the toasted muffin, spreading right to the edges. Place the cheese-topped muffin halves about 3 inches away from the heat source – don’t have them too close, as the egg in the mixture can make them brown very quickly. Broil for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese has melted and is golden and bubbling. Decorate the cooked muffin halves with peas for eyes and strips of carrot or snow peas for ears, half an olive for a nose, chives for whiskers and scallion for teeth. Serve immediately.

 

From Top 100 Finger Foods

Pepperoni Rigatoni Bake

Pepperoni Rigatoni Bake

Pepperoni Rigatoni Bake

 

1 package(s) (16-ounce) rigatoni or penne pasta

2 large eggs

1 cup(s) whole milk

1 cup(s) (4 ounces ) shredded part skim mozzarella cheese

1 cup(s) (3 ounces ) grated Parmesan cheese

1 container(s) (15-ounce) part-skim ricotta cheese

4 ounce(s) (1 cup) sliced pepperoni, cut into slivers

1 package(s) (10-ounce) frozen peas

1/2 teaspoon(s) salt

1/4 teaspoon(s) ground black pepper

 

Heat large covered saucepot of salted water to boiling over high heat. Add rigatoni and cook as label directs. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease 3- to 3 1/2-quart casserole (about 2 inches deep) or 13- by 9-inch glass baking dish. In large bowl, with wire whisk, lightly beat eggs. Stir in milk, mozzarella, Parmesan, ricotta, pepperoni, frozen peas, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drain rigatoni. Add rigatoni to cheese mixture and toss to coat. Transfer rigatoni mixture to prepared casserole. Bake, uncovered, 20 to 25 minutes or until edges are golden and center is almost set. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 675

Fat: 26g
Fiber:

Golden-Topped Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Golden-Topped Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Golden-Topped Macaroni and Cheese12 oz. Elbow Macaroni
5 T. Butter, divided
3 T. Flour
3 C. Milk
2 tsp. Paprika
1 tsp. Dry Mustard
3 C. shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1 C. shredded Colby Cheese
½ C. freshly grated Parmesan Cheese
12.5 oz. can petite cut Diced Tomatoes, drained
1 C. crushed Potato Chips
½ C. Cornflake Crumbs

Preheat oven to 350. Coat a shallow 2 quart baking dish with cooking spray. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain about 1 minute before the pasta is completely cooked and rinse under cold water. Drain again and transfer to large bowl. Meanwhile heat a medium pot over medium high heat and melt 3 T. butter. Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the flour just starts to turn light tan. Whisk in the milk, paprika and mustard. Cook, whisking constantly until mixture thickens, a few minutes. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheeses and cook, stirring, until melted. Pour cheese sauce over macaroni and toss until combined. Stir in tomatoes and spread the mixture in the baking dish. Melt the remaining butter in the microwave using a small glass bowl. Combine flakes and chips in a bowl and add the butter. Toss until moistened evenly the sprinkle over the macaroni. Bake until bubbling and the top is golden, 25-30 minutes. Remove from oven and let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Grilled Cheddar and Apple Sandwich with Savory Raspberry Coulis

Grilled Cheddar and Apple Sandwich with Savory Raspberry Coulis

6oz white cheddar cheese, grated and divided

1 green apple, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

4 slices bread

Butter

 

1/2 C. fresh raspberries

2T. honey

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. balsamic vinegar

 

Start with the coulis: in a food processor, whizz together the raspberries, mustard, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to taste. Set aside. Heat a heavy saucepan (I like cast iron) over medium heat. Butter the bread slices on one side. On two of the slices, spread the unbuttered side with raspberry coulis. Place two slices of bread butter side down (coulis side up) in the skillet. Take half of the cheese and spread it evenly over the two slices in the skillet. Then, place half the apples in a thin layer on each slice. Distribute the remaining half of the cheese over the top of the apples–at this point you should have bread-coulis-cheese-apple-cheese. Place the remaining pieces of bread on the tops of the sandwiches–butter side up. Press down with your spatula to really mash everything together. Cover loosely and cook for five minutes. After five minutes, uncover and carefully flip the sandwich. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until it is oozing and amazing. Serve with a nice salad and a drizzle of the remaining coulis. Makes 2 sandwiches

 

  

Broccoli with Cheddar Crumbles

Broccoli with Cheddar Crumbles

1 pound broccoli, cut into walnut-size pieces 

1 T. trans-fat free spread 

2 T. dry whole grain bread crumbs 

1/8 tsp. salt 

2 T. shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese

 

Bring 1/2″ water to a boil in a nonstick skillet. Add the broccoli. Cover and cook, tossing occasionally, for 2 minutes, or until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain the broccoli. Set aside. Wipe the skillet dry and place over high heat for 1 minute. Add the spread, bread crumbs, and salt. Stir to mix. Return the broccoli to the pan. Cook over medium heat, tossing for 3 minutes, or until the crumbs are toasted. Remove from the heat. Scatter on the cheese. Toss for about 1 minute, or until the cheese coats the broccoli and starts to melt.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 88

Fat: 4g

Fiber: 3g

Chicken Capri

Chicken Capri

1 C. reduced-fat ricotta cheese
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
2 T. extra virgin olive oil
1 C. crushed tomatoes
4 slices reduced-fat mozzarella cheese

In a blender or food processor, combine the ricotta with the oregano, salt, and pepper. Process to blend. Rub the chicken with the garlic powder. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 12 minutes per side. Place the chicken breasts, side by side, in a large baking dish and allow to cool. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spoon 1/4 C. of the cheese mixture and 1/4 C. tomatoes onto each chicken breast. Top each chicken breast with 1 slice mozzarella. Bake for 20 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted in the thickest portion of a breast registers 170°F and the juices run clear.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 340
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g

Cream of Cheddar Soup and Lime Chicken Avocado Salad

Cream of Cheddar Soup and Lime Chicken Avocado Salad

2 T. butter

1 large yellow onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, chopped

1 tsp crushed hot red pepper flakes

salt and pepper

2 T. ground cumin

2 T. flour

1 quart chicken stock or broth 

1 C. heavy cream (half and half works just fine)

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (aka EVOO)

5 thin chicken breast cutlets (I used two breasts)

1 T. ground coriander

2 limes

1 ripe avocado

1/2 head iceberg lettuce 

cherry tomatoes, cut in half

1/4 C. fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

4 C. good-quality aged Cheddar Cheese, grated

Heat a soup pot over medium heat with the butter. When the butter melts, add the onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and 1 T. of the cumin (a palmful). Cook for 3 minutes. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute more. Whisk in the chicken stock and heavy cream, bring up to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes. In the mean time. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 T. of the EVOO. Season the chicken breasts with the remaining T. of cumin, the coriander, and salt and pepper; add to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken to the cutting board, squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the chicken, and allow it to cool slightly. Dice avocado and scoop it out. Place lettuce (or spinach) on plates, followed by chopped cilantro, avocado and tomatoes. Cut the chicken into strips and add to each plate. Squeeze the juice from the other lime in a small dish and mix in 3 T. of EVOO. Divide the dressing among each plate. Season with salt and pepper. To finish the soup, turn the heat off. While whisking, add the grated cheddar cheese in 3 additions. Service the cheddar soup immediately alongside the lime chicken avocado salad.

Caramelized Onion and White Cheddar Dip with Apples and Dark Bread

Caramelized Onion and White Cheddar Dip with Apples and Dark Bread

4 T. butter

2 large onions, finely chopped

1 bay leaf, fresh or dried

1 tsp. dried thyme or poultry seasoning

Salt and pepper

3 green apples

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 small, round loaf crusty pumpernickel bread, cut into bite-size cubes, 1 pound

3 T. all-purpose flour

2/3 C. dry white wine

2 C. half-and-half

1/2 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg

A pinch or 2 of ground cloves

2 1/2 C. shredded sharp white Cheddar

 

Heat a heavy bottomed medium pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Melt butter in pot and add onions, raising heat slightly. Add bay, thyme, salt and pepper to onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and caramel in color, 20 minutes. While onions cook, slice apples and douse with a little lemon juice to slow browning. Arrange the apples and bread on a board or platter. When onions are soft and sweet, add flour and cook a minute. Whisk in wine, cook a minute then whisk in half-and-half. When the liquid comes up to a bubble, season with nutmeg and cloves and adjust salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in Cheddar and melt then remove from heat and serve in fondue pot or transfer to a small, warmed sauce pot which you can return to the stove top to reheat sauce as necessary. Dip apples and bread in warm cheesy sauce and enjoy.

German Cheddar and Beer Fondue

German Cheddar and Beer Fondue

1 sack, 10 ounces, 2 1/2 C., shredded sharp Cheddar, available on dairy aisle

1/4 to 1/3 pound, 4 to 6 ounces, Gruyere, shredded

1 rounded T. all-purpose flour

1 C. German lager beer

2 T. spicy brown mustard

A few drops hot sauce

A few drops Worcestershire sauce

For Serving:

1 1/2 pounds cubed or thick sliced and browned wursts: knock, brat or brot,

1 package mini party franks (recommended: Boars Head)

1 head cauliflower, separated into florets

1 small jar mini Gherkin pickles, drained

1 small jar pickled onions, available on vegetable aisle

1 small, round loaf rye, pumpernickel or sour dough bread, cubed

 

Combine cheeses in a bowl with flour. Add beer to a small pot and bring up to a bubble over medium heat. Reduce the heat to simmer and add cheese in handfuls. Stir constantly, melting the cheese in batches. Stir in a figure-eight pattern with wooden spoon. When the cheese has been incorporated fully, stir in the mustard, hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Transfer fondue to warm fondue pot. In a large skillet, bring 2-inches of water to a boil and blanch the cauliflower for 2 to 3 minutes, drain and arrange around the fondue pot. In the same pan, bring the cooking water back to a boil and add the mini franks and sliced wursts. Cook, uncovered until all the liquid has evaporated. Add 1 T. butter to the pan to crisp the casings. Pile wursts and dogs near fondue. Complete the dipping selections with dishes of pickles, onions and cubed bread.

 

Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Pasta

Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Pasta

1 envelope Italian Salad Dressing Mix

2 T. oil

2 T. balsamic vinegar

2 lb. ripe tomatoes, coarsely chopped

1 lb. pasta, cooked, drained

1 pkg. (9 oz.)  Fresh Mozzarella Cheese (27 balls), drained

1/4 C. chopped fresh basil

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

 

Mix salad dressing mix, oil and vinegar in large bowl until well blended. Add remaining ingredients; toss lightly.

 

Yield: 8 servings

Calories: 350

Fat: 11g

Fiber: 3g

Cheesy Cracker Melts

Cheesy Cracker Melts

2 Triscuit Crackers
2 Kraft Cracker Cuts Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1 tsp. Pecan Pieces

Top crackers with cheese and pecans.
Place on microwavable plate. Microwave on high 10 sec.

Calories: 130
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g

Kidney Bean with Cheddar Cheese Soup

Kidney Bean with Cheddar Cheese Soup

1 C. dried kidney beans, sorted and rinsed
4 C. water
1/2 C. butter or margarine
4 celery stalks, chopped
4 medium onions, chopped
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1 C. green pepper, chopped
1/2 C. flour
4 C. chicken broth
4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. chili pepper
11/2 C. apple juice
3 C. (3/4 lb.) cheddar cheese, shredded

Place beans in large pan, cover with water and either soak overnight or use the Quick-Soak Method. Drain beans, keeping soaking liquid, adding extra water to soaking liquid to equal 3 C.. Place beans in pan with the 3 C. of liquid. Heat to boiling, cover and simmer until beans are tender (11/2 to 2 hours). Melt butter in pan; add celery, onions, carrots and green pepper and sauté for 5 minutes over low heat. Gradually add flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth, Worcestershire Sauce, chili pepper, and 2 C. of beans. Bring to boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 30 minutes. Stir in the rest of the beans and apple juice. Cook 15 minutes. Add cheese and stir until it melts.

Artichoke-Blue Cheese Bisque

Artichoke-Blue Cheese Bisque

1 T. butter
1 onion, chopped
1/3 C. vermouth
2 packages frozen artichoke hearts (8 oz.)
3 C. low-salt chicken broth
1/4 tsp. dried thyme
1/4 C. light whipping cream
1/4 C. crumbled blue cheese (2 oz.)
Salt to taste
Freshly-ground black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh chives for garnish

Melt butter in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 10 minutes. Add vermouth and simmer until all liquid evaporates, about 4 minutes. Add artichokes, broth, and thyme. Simmer until artichoke hearts begin to fall apart, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Cool slightly. Working in batches, puree soup in blender until smooth. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.) Pour soup into saucepan. Stir in cream and blue cheese. Simmer over medium heat until cheese melts and soup is smooth, whisking constantly, about 2 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls. Sprinkle with chives and serve.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 114
Fat: 5.8
Fiber: 1g

Risotto with Fresh Mozzarella, Grape Tomatoes, and Basil

Risotto with Fresh Mozzarella, Grape Tomatoes, and Basil

3 T. balsamic vinegar
4 1/2 C. fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
2 T. extravirgin olive oil, divided
2 C. chopped leek
1 1/2 C. Arborio rice or other medium-grain rice
1/3 C. dry white wine
1/4 C. half-and-half
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 C. halved grape tomatoes
1/4 C. chopped fresh basil
5 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, finely diced

Place vinegar in a small, heavy saucepan; bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook until slightly syrupy and reduced to 1 T. (about 4 minutes). Set aside. Bring the broth to a simmer in a medium saucepan (do not boil). Keep warm. Heat 1 T. oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add leek; sauté 3 minutes or until tender. Add rice; cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in wine, and cook 1 minute or until the liquid is nearly absorbed, stirring constantly. Stir in 1 C. broth; cook 5 minutes or until the liquid is nearly absorbed, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining broth, 1/2 C. at a time, stirring constantly until each portion of broth is absorbed before adding the next (about 25 minutes total). Stir in half-and-half, salt, and pepper; cook 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in tomatoes, basil, and cheese. Place about 1 C. risotto evenly into 6 shallow serving bowls, and drizzle each with 1/2 tsp. balsamic syrup and 1/2 tsp. olive oil.

Yield: 6 servings
Serving size: about 1 C.

Calories: 378
Fat: 12.1g
Fiber: 1.6g

Blue Cheese Sauce

Blue Cheese Sauce

1/3 C. nonfat plain yogurt
3 T. crumbled blue cheese (1 oz.)
1/2 tsp. balsamic vinegar

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and blend with a fork to make a lumpy sauce.

Yield: 1/2 Cup
Serving Size: 1 T.
Calories: 19
Fat: 1g
Fiber: 0g

Creamy Bleu Cheese Dressing

Creamy Bleu Cheese Dressing

1 C. nonfat cottage cheese
1/3 C. nonfat buttermilk
1/4 C. crumpled blue cheese
Black pepper to taste

Combine first two ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. If thinner consistency is desired, add more buttermilk. Stir in cheese & pepper. Cover and refrigerate.

Note: This works out to about 15-20 calories per T., depending on how much buttermilk you add. I made double the recipe, blending in 1/4 C. blue cheese with the cottage cheese to give more flavor throughout I still thought it was a little bland so I tossed in about 1/2 T. white wine vinegar, some garlic powder, extra pepper, and some chopped parsley and it was better.

Macaroni Au Gratin

Macaroni Au Gratin

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

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

Bacon-Cheddar Toasts

Bacon-Cheddar Toasts

Bacon-Cheddar Toasts1 C. Mayo
2 Tsp. Worcestershire Sauce
1 C. (4oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 chopped onion
3/4 C. slivered almonds, chopped
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled (and maybe one or five extra to eat while cooking…)
1 loaf of French bread

Combine mayo and Worcestershire sauce in a medium bowl. Stir in cheese, onion, almonds and bacon. Cut bread into 1/2 inch slices; spread with cheese mixture. Cut slices in half. Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 400 for 8-10 minutes or until bubbly. Makes 4 dozen.

Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Olive oil
2 C. marinara sauce
1/3 C. mascarpone cheese
¼ C. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
1 lb. purchased cheese tortellini
2 oz. thinly sliced smoked mozzarella
¼ C. freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat the oven to 350. Lightly oil and 8x8x2” baking dish or 4 individual gratin dishes.
Whisk the marinara sauce, mascarpone cheese, parsley, and thyme in a large bowl to blend. Cook the tortellini in a large pot of boiling salted water until just tender, about 2 minutes. Drain. Add the tortellini to the sauce and toss to coat. Transfer the tortellini mixture to the prepared baking dish or dishes. Top with the smoked mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish or dishes with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake uncovered until the sauce bubbles and the cheeses on top melt, about 10 minutes longer.

Buffalo Mozzarella with Greek Olives and Roasted Red Peppers

Buffalo Mozzarella with Greek Olives and Roasted Red Peppers

½ cup Greek olives, pitted and chopped

½ cup jarred red roasted peppers packed in olive oil, chopped

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

4 ounces buffalo mozzarella, thinly sliced

3 large whole-wheat pitas

 

Mix the chopped olives and red peppers with the vinegar. Push the mozzarella and vegetables into the pita pockets. Place on a baking sheet. Bake at 350ºF until golden brown, about 15 minutes. When browned and hot, cut sandwiches in quarters and serve.

 

 

from The Everything Glycemic Index Cookbook

 

Yield: 3 servings

Calories: 232

Fat: 4g

Fiber:

 

 

Baked Mini Cheese Puffs with Chives

Baked Mini Cheese Puffs with Chives

Baked Mini Cheese Puffs with Chives

2 tsp. Butter
3/4 C. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 C. Finely Shredded Medium Cheddar
2 tsp. chopped chives
2 large eggs
3/4 C. whole milk
1/4 C. water

Preheat oven to 375˚F.  Butter C. of a 24-C. non-stick mini muffin pan. In small bowl mix together flour, salt, cheese and chives. In bowl with pour spout whisk together eggs, milk and water. Add flour mixture and whisk until ingredients are blended, but still lumpy. Heat muffin pan in oven for 2 minutes. Remove and divide batter among muffin cups. Bake 20 minutes until puffed and golden. Quickly cut a small slit in each puff for steam to escape and serve immediately.

Cheddar Beer Soup

Cheddar Beer Soup

5 tsp. butter

2 carrots, finely chopped

2 leeks, white and light green parts only, finely chopped

Salt and pepper

1/3 C. flour

3 C. milk

One 12-oz. bottle amber beer

1 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard

10 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 3 1/2 C.)

Croutons, for garnish

 

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the carrots and leeks, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring, until soft, 10 minutes. Add the flour and cook, stirring often, for 2 minutes. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly. Increase the heat to medium-high, add the beer and mustard and bring the soup to a boil, whisking constantly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, whisking, until creamy and thickened, about 10 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat. Whisk in the cheese 1 handful at a time until combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Top with the croutons.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

 

Green Chile Cheddar Braid Bread

Green Chile Cheddar Braid Bread

1 envelope active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup soft butter or margarine
3 T. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Green Chile Filling (recipe below)
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

1 large onion, chopped
8 cloves fresh garlic, chopped
1 T. butter
2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
1 can diced green chile

In a large bowl of electric mixer, dissolve yeast in warm water. Blend in milk, eggs, butter, sugar, salt, and cumin. Blend in 2 cups flour, 1 cup at a time. Beat on medium speed of mixer 3 minutes, scraping bowl often. With heavy duty mixer (Kitchen Aid with Dough Hook or wooden spoon) blend in remaining flour to make a soft dough. Turn out onto floured board, and knead until smooth, 5 to 10 minutes. Place in greased bowl, turn over, and cover. Let rise in warm place until doubled, about 1 1/2 hrs. Meanwhile, prepare Green Chile Filling. When dough has risen, punch down and turn out onto floured board. Roll to a 9 X 30-inch rectangle. Crumble filling over dough to within 1 inch of edges. Starting from long side, roll up tightly. Moisten edge with water and pinch together firmly to seal. Using a floured sharp knife, cut roll lengthwise in halves. Carefully turn cut sides up. Loosely twist the two strips together, keeping cut sides up. Transfer to greased and floured baking sheet, and shape to a 10-inch circle. Pinch ends firmly together. Let rise in warm place, uncovered, until puffy looking, about 45-60 minutes. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and bake 5 minutes longer, until browned. Makes 1 10-inch twist. Green Chile Filling: Sauté onion and garlic in butter until soft but not browned. Cool. Mix in cheddar and chiles. Cover and chill.

Thirty Minute Mozzarella

Thirty Minute Mozzarella

30minmozzYou can probably find citric acid at a good grocery store, but rennet is harder to come by. You can order it online at several retailers; I’ve purchased it from New England Cheesemaking Supply and Grape and Granary.

I prefer to use liquid vegetarian rennet, which New England Cheesemaking Supply sells at double-strength, so I use 1/8 tsp. for this recipe.

1 gallon Milk, not ultra-pasteurized (Depending on the fat percentage of your milk, you’ll get a very different cheese at the end. Whole milk produces a very rich, soft mozzarella, whereas 1% will make a harder, more string-cheese-like cheese. Fat free can get a bit too rubbery, so I don’t recommend it)
1 1/2 tsp. Citric Acid powder, dissolved in 1/4 cup room-temperature water
1/4 tsp. Liquid Rennet or 1/2 tablet Rennet, dissolved in 1/4 cup room-temperature water
1 tsp. Cheese (Flake) Salt or Kosher Salt

Pour the milk in to a large pot. On medium-low, heat slowly to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir slowly and continuously to keep from scalding. Once the milk reaches 55 degrees, pour in the citric acid mixture and stir well. Keep heating. When the milk hits 88 degrees, add the rennet mixture and stir well. Right around this time the milk will start to thicken, and you’ll see little white flecks stick to your spoon as it starts curdling. Once the milk is in the 90-degree range, it should be noticeably curdled. Stir very gently at this point, if at all — you want to encourage the curds to knit together. Between 95 and 105 degrees, the curds will be quite thick. Turn off the heat once they start separating from the sides of the pot, and there’s a very clear distinction between the curds (white clumps) and whey (yellow liquid). Let the curds rest for 5 minutes.

With a perforated or slotted spoon, ladle the curds into a bowl. The curds will continue expelling whey once they’re in the bowl, which is fine. Once you have pulled most of the curds out of the pot (some little bits will probably still be floating about), pour any excess whey back in the pot. Using a microwave, heat the curds for 60 seconds. Drain off any excess whey, then fold the curds over once, then once again. This is to distribute the heat evenly. Microwave again for about 30-40 seconds, depending on the strength of your microwave. Pour off the whey. Sprinkle the salt onto the cheese, and then fold the curds over twice again. Put them back into the microwave for another 30-40 seconds. Pour of any excess whey.

At this point, the cheese should be very hot, and look like melted mozzarella! The curds will get quite hot — it’s really helpful to have a pair of clean kitchen gloves to protect your hands. Stretch the cheese, and then fold it back on itself. If it tears when you try to stretch it, the cheese is not hot enough; just repeat the microwaving process. Stretch it again once or twice. If you want a more string-cheese like cheese, do it a few more times. You can then twist or braid the cheese, or tear off pieces and roll them into small balls. If you’re going to refrigerate the cheese for later, drop it in a bowl of ice water to get the temperature down quickly. Otherwise, just dig in while it’s still warm!

The Babs

The Babs

5306 slices bacon
Salted Butter, melted
4 slices Rye bread
8 slices Tillamook® Baby Swiss Cheese
4 oz (1/2 cup) bleu cheese crumbles
1 Braeburn apple, sliced to an even thickness

Preheat a countertop griddle to medium-high heat. Begin by cooking the bacon evenly on both sides to your desired crispiness. At the same time, brush butter onto one side of all slices of bread and put them on the grill, butter side down. Top both slices evenly with your Swiss Cheese, and on one side, spread the bleu cheese crumbles. To help the cheese melt faster, place a pot lid over both slices of bread. When the bacon appears done, remove it from the grill and cut each piece in half. This will help it sit in the sandwich without spreading out past the crust. Put the bacon onto the side with the bleu cheese, then place your sliced apples on top of the bacon. Once the bread appears sufficiently browned, close the sandwich and flip it a few times to melt the cheese into the ingredients. After a minute or so, remove from the griddle, cut, plate, and enjoy.

Conchigliette al forno (Baked Shells)

Conchigliette al forno (Baked Shells)

6 ounces portabella mushrooms, cleaned and trimmeBaked-Shellsd
1 stick unsalted butter
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup white wine
One cup of Chicken broth
2 cups finely shredded radicchio
2½ cups heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
½ cup coarsely shredded fontina
½ cup crumbled Gorgonzola
2 teaspoons mascarpone cheese
6 leaves fresh sage, chopped
1 pound conchigliette rigate (pasta shells)

Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Slice the mushrooms about ¼-inch thick. Heat 6 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet; add the mushrooms and ¼ teaspoon salt. Sauté over medium heat, add half cup of dry white wine stirring frequently, add one cup of chicken broth until they are cooked through, 15 to 20 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mushrooms, radicchio, cream, cheeses, sage. Parboil the pasta shells for 4 minutes; drain and add to the ingredients in the mixing bowl. Toss to combine. Divide the pasta mixture among 6 to 8 individual, shallow, ceramic gratin dishes (1½ to 2 cup capacity). Dot with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and bake until bubbly and brown on top, about 7 to 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh Italian parsley, but do not cook the parsley in the pasta.

White Pizza Grilled Cheese

White Pizza Grilled Cheese

white-pizza-grilled-cheese-I-howsweeteats_com-6
2 bulbs garlic
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 pinch of salt
8 ounces mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
¼ cup freshly chopped basil leaves
2 tablespoons freshly chopped rosemary
2 tablespoons freshly chopped thyme leaves
2 tablespoons freshly chopped oregano leaves
1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
8 ounces sharp provolone cheese, freshly grated
4 ounces mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
2 ounces parmesan cheese, freshly grated
8 thick slices Italian or sourdough bread

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Slice off the top of the bulb of garlic and remove any of the outside paper from the bulb. Drizzle the exposed cloves with olive oil. Wrap the bulb in foil and roast for 1 hour, until the cloves are golden and caramely. Let the garlic cool slightly. Squeeze the cloves out in a bowl and add a pinch of salt. Mash the cloves with a fork until they form a paste. Add the mascarpone to the bowl and stir to combine. Add in the basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano and parsley, stirring to combine. Toss together the provolone, mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread the outsides of the bread with softened butter. Spread the insides of the bread with the mascarpone cheese mixture. Place a slice of bread butter-side down in the skillet and add a few handfuls of cheese on top. Follow it with another slide of bread, butter-side up. Cook until the cheese is melty and each side is golden, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Serve the sandwiches with a garnish of extra chopped herbs.

Pasta with Heirloom Tomatoes, Basil and Brie

Pasta with Heirloom Tomatoes, Basil and Brie

4 large (1 pound or more) heirloom tomatoes in an assortment of colors
1 pound Brie, rind removed, torn into irregular piece
1 cup cleaned fresh basil leaves cut into strips (use both red and green if you have them)
3 large cloves garlic, peeled and finely minced
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 pounds pasta in your favorite shape to hold the juices of the sauce

Combine tomatoes, brie, basil, garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper in a large serving bowl. Prepare at least 2 hours before serving and set aside, covered, at room temperature. Bring 6 quarts water to a boil in a large pot. Add 2 tsp. salt. Add the pasta and boil until tender but al dente. Drain pasta and immediately toss with the sauce. The hot pasta will melt the brie and bring out the aromas and flavors of the tomatoes and garlic. Serve and pass the pepper mill.

Chicken and Corn Chowder with Chiles and Cheese

Chicken and Corn Chowder with Chiles and Cheese

4305941674_10a6870d463 slices bacon, chopped
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4-5 green chiles (or 1 4oz. can) diced
5 C. low-sodium chicken broth
2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 C. frozen corn
1 14 oz. can creamed corn
1/2 C. all-purpose flour
2 C. skim (or 1%) milk
1 1/2 C. grated cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
kosher salt and black pepper
Scallions to garnish, if desired

Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove and let drain on a paper towel. To the bacon drippings add the chicken, onion, bell pepper and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Add the green chiles and cook an additional minute. Add the chicken broth and potatoes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Add frozen corn and creamed corn and stir well. Place flour in a medium bowl and gradually whisk in the milk. Add the flour mixture to the soup and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes. Stir in the grated cheese and cayenne pepper. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Garnish with crumbled bacon and grated cheese if desired.

Mousetrap Grilled Cheese

Mousetrap Grilled Cheese

mousetrap4 tsp. Tillamook® Salted Butter at room temperature
4 slices Tillamook® Sharp Cheddar Cheese
4 slices Tillamook® Monterey Jack Cheese
4 slices creamy Havarti Cheese
8 slices high-quality sourdough bread (we use sourdough from Artisan Bakers of Sonoma)

Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place bread buttered side down. Layer 1 slice of Sharp Cheddar on each of 4 slices of bread, then Monterey Jack, then Havarti. Sandwiches can be cooked open face on a pre-heated cast-iron pan in a 500°F oven, then closed and served, or can be closed, then cooked in a pan on a stovetop over medium-low heat until bread is toasted and cheese is melted. Serve immediately.