(Family Features) When busy mornings give way to a hectic workday followed by homework and after-school activities, a fresh, simple meal is often the only option. Before you hit the drive-thru or settle for an equally unhealthy alternative, check out these delicious dishes you can prepare and serve without the hassle.

Find more ideas to make your busy weeknights easy at Culinary.net.

Savory and Scrumptious

Take a nutritious dish to the family table that still brings a flavorful bite. This savory lasagna recipe boasts meaty eggplant, fresh zucchini and lycopene-rich tomatoes. Whole-wheat noodles pack fiber and natural plant compounds, called phytochemicals. Find more better-for-you recipe ideas at AICR.org.

Roasted Vegetable Lasagna

Reprinted with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research.
Servings: 12

• 2          eggplants (about 3 pounds), quartered lengthwise
• 6          medium zucchini (about 3 pounds)
• canola oil cooking spray
• 1          pound whole-wheat lasagna noodles
• 15        ounces low-fat ricotta or low-fat cottage cheese
• 2          eggs
• 1/2       cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2       teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 3          cups low-fat mozzarella cheese
• 4          cups low-sodium tomato sauce, divided

1. Heat oven to 450° F. Grease 13-by-9-by-2-inch baking pan; set aside.
2. Slice eggplant and zucchini in 1/2-inch slices. Layer on two baking sheets and coat both sides of vegetables with cooking spray. Roast 20 minutes. Toss vegetables and continue roasting until well browned and soft, about 20 minutes more. Transfer vegetables to large bowl.
3. Reduce oven temperature to 375° F.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Separate noodles and let cool slightly.
5. In medium bowl, mix together cheese, eggs, Parmesan, nutmeg and garlic powder.
6. To assemble: Spread thin layer of sauce over bottom of prepared pan. Cover with layer of pasta (noodle strips slightly overlapping). Spread with one-third of ricotta mixture.
7. Sprinkle 1/4 of the mozzarella over ricotta. Spoon 1/3 of roasted vegetables on top. Top with 1/2 cup tomato sauce and continue assembly as directed until there are four layers of pasta and three layers of filling. Spread remaining sauce on top and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
8. Cover pan with aluminum foil and bake 30 minutes. Uncover and continue baking until golden and bubbly, about 15 minutes more. Let stand 15 minutes before serving.

Quick, Flavorful Meal Idea

It’s not always easy to make healthy food choices. When time is of the essence, look for delicious recipe ingredients that are convenient and easy to prepare while also offering great taste and health benefits.

In fact, 40 percent of American consumers said shorter cooking times are especially important when buying grocery items such as rice, grains and pasta, according to research from Statista, and 83 percent said taste is an important factor when purchasing food.

Ready in 10 minutes with flavor infused in every grain, Uncle Ben’s Flavor Infusions rice is ideal for those looking for quick and healthy meal options. With its one-step cooking process, it makes it easy for families to cook with their kids and quickly get dinner on the table. The resealable pouches ensure freshness for multiple uses, and any of the five flavors can be combined with fresh vegetables, proteins and herbs for a simple meal that’s ready in less than 20 minutes.

Simple recipe options using Flavor Infusions, such as Easy Thai Chicken Satay and Rice Salad, are quick meals the entire family can enjoy, even when short on time. Find more meal ideas at UncleBens.com.

Easy Thai Chicken Satay and Rice Salad

Servings: 4-6

Dressing:

• 1/4       cup canned, unsweetened coconut milk
• 1/4       cup creamy peanut butter
• 1          tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• 1          tablespoon soy sauce
• 2          teaspoons red curry paste
• 1/8       teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1-2       tablespoons hot water

Salad:

• 1          cup Uncle Ben’s Flavor Infusions Roasted Chicken
• 1 1/2    cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1          cup shredded carrots
• 1          cup sliced pea pods
• 1          cup sliced red pepper
• 1          avocado, pitted and sliced
• 4-6       red radishes, thinly sliced
• 2          tablespoons chopped peanuts
• 2          tablespoons chopped green onions

1. To make dressing: In small glass bowl, stir together coconut milk, peanut butter, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, red curry paste, cayenne pepper and hot water; set aside.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Makes about 3 1/2 cups.
3. In center of individual plates, place about 1 cup rice. Arrange chicken, carrots, pea pods, red pepper, avocado, radishes, peanuts and green onions around rice then drizzle with dressing.

Fish with a Twist

Add a little variety to your dinnertime protein with a smart, heart-healthy option like fish. Fillets cook quickly and a slightly sweet white fish like farm-raised catfish has a mild enough flavor to entice picky young eaters. White fish is also quite versatile; it can take on other flavors such as this citrusy topping with ease. Find more family-friendly fish recipes at USCatfish.com.

Catfish Quesadilla with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream

Recipe courtesy of The Catfish Institute
Servings: 4

• 4          U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish Fillets, grilled or baked
• 2 1/2    tablespoons olive oil, divided
• salt, to taste
• freshly ground pepper, to taste
• smoked paprika or chili powder
• 1          small red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2       red onion, diced
• 3/4       cup whole corn kernels
• 1          teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1          teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2       cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 4          flour or wheat tortillas (10 inches each)
• 1          can (16 ounces) refried black beans
• 2          cups grated pepper jack cheese

Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream:

• 1/2       cup sour cream
• 1/4       cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1/2       lime, juiced
• lime zest
• salt, to taste

1. Lightly brush fish with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season with salt, pepper and smoked paprika or chili powder. Prepare fish on grill or bake until done. Place in refrigerator to cool. When cool, cut into bite-size pieces.
2. In large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Saute red pepper and onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add corn, red pepper flakes, cumin and salt and pepper, to taste. Toss to incorporate and saute 3 minutes. Transfer to bowl and add cilantro.
3. Heat pan large enough to hold flat tortilla to medium heat. Lightly brush pan with remaining olive oil.
4. Spread tortilla on work surface. On half of each tortilla, spread refried beans and vegetables; top with fish.
5. Place in heated pan and sprinkle 1/2 cup cheese on other half of tortilla. Heat until cheese is melted and tortilla is lightly crispy. Fold cheese side over vegetable side and remove to plate.
6. Using serrated knife, cut each tortilla into four pieces. Serve with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream.
7. To make Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream: In small bowl, mix all ingredients until combined.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Roasted Vegetable Lasagna and Catfish Quesadilla with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream)

Photo courtesy of Uncle Ben’s (Easy Thai Chicken Satay and Rice Salad)

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) School is back in session, and so are hectic weeknights with little time to cook dinner. Instead of reaching for ready-made meals or takeout, serve up tasty one-pot dinners made with wholesome ingredients like spaghetti squash and quinoa. These seven kid-friendly recipes bring everything together in a single baking dish or skillet, so there's less prep and clean up, and more time for reconnecting around the dinner table.

1. Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Lo Mein
   

   Load up on veggies with this weeknight version of an Asian takeout favorite. Carrots, bell pepper and shrimp are flavored with soy sauce, ginger and garlic. Try a microwave shortcut to cook the spaghetti squash and have it on the table in no time.

2. Fall Skillet Pot Pie
   

   Rotisserie or leftover chicken, refrigerated biscuits and an oven-proof skillet make this comfort food favorite a weeknight reality. Add sweet potatoes, peas and flavor with thyme, cinnamon and garlic powder.

3. Quinoa Taco Skillet
   

   McCormick Organics Taco Seasoning Mix adds kid-friendly flavor to this skillet dinner made with quinoa, ground turkey, fresh tomatoes and corn.

4. Creamy Tomato Italian Parmesan Chicken
   

   Tender chicken simmered in a creamy red sauce, fresh parmesan and freshly ground Italian herbs make for a perfect weeknight dish. Whether you serve with pasta, atop Italian bread or let the chicken be the star, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

5. Chicken Noodle Casserole
   

   Everyone's favorite soup gets a casserole treatment. Simply combine pasta, chicken, vegetables and gooey cheese with the flavors of pepper, garlic and Italian seasoning for a comforting weeknight meal, perfect for leftovers.

6. Chicken Fajita Soup
   

   Warm up with a one-pot wonder that gets a Tex-Mex twist from McCormick Organics Fajita Seasoning Mix. Let the family customize with toppings like avocado, cheese, sour cream and tortilla strips.

7. Chicken Chili with Apple and Sweet Potato
   

   Say goodbye to beans and whip up a new fall chili the whole family will love. Kitchen Basics Organic Chicken Stock gives the quick dish a rich, cooked-all-day flavor.

Find more tips and recipe inspiration for back-to-school season at McCormick.com and be sure to check out Pinterest and Facebook.

Source: McCormick Spice

(Family Features) From burgers to barbecued chicken, many of the best grilled foods are served with creamy condiments – often packing on calories and fat. Next time you’re ready to grill, experiment with new ways to create simple but robust flavors using fewer ingredients through simple swaps.

Rice vinegars offer a healthy alternative to condiments like mayonnaise or a creamy dressing when grilling. Keeping meals simple is easy with naturally gluten-free Nakano Rice Vinegar, which includes six or less simple ingredients with no artificial preservatives, flavors or ingredients, and no high-fructose corn syrup or MSG. The brand recently announced a clean-labeling initiative for all of its products, which now have easy-to-read labels with recognizable ingredients.

Dawn Jackson Blatner, star of ABC’s “My Diet Is Better Than Yours,” author of “Superfood Swap” and a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant for the Chicago Cubs, has created healthy dishes to heat up the grill this season.

This fall, look for organic Nakano Rice Vinegars debuting at retailers nationwide, and find more recipes at Mizkan.com.

Grilled Meatballs and Zoodles

Servings: 4

Meatballs

• 1      pound organic ground turkey or grass-fed ground beef
• 1      cup organic kale, finely chopped
• 1/2   cup crushed brown rice crackers
• 1      egg
• 1/4   teaspoon red chili pepper flakes
• 1/4   teaspoon sea salt
• non-stick cooking spray

Salad

• 4      medium zucchini
• 2      cups organic cherry tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4   cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1/4   cup Nakano Rice Vinegar – Natural or Nakano Organic Rice Vinegar – Natural
• 2      tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• sea salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste

1. Heat grill to medium.
2. In large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, kale, crackers, egg, chili pepper flakes and salt. Use hands to form mixture into 12 balls. Refrigerate 30-60 minutes to help meatballs set.
3. Mist meatballs with non-stick cooking spray and place them on grill. Grill each side 3-4 minutes, using tongs to flip to sides that haven’t been browned yet. Meatballs should reach internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Using vegetable spiralizer, create zucchini noodles.
5. Toss zucchini with tomatoes, Parmesan, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper.
6. Serve each zoodle plate with three meatballs.

Nutritional information per serving: 350 calories; 20 g total fat; 6 g saturated fat; 240 mg sodium; 14 g carbs; 3 g fiber; 6 g sugar; 32 g protein.

Grilled Veggie and Ranch Bowl

Servings: 2

• 8      ounces skinless chicken breast
• 2      ears corn, shucked
• 6      asparagus spears, trimmed
• 1      organic bell pepper, seeded and cut into 4 large pieces
• 1      zucchini, cut in half lengthwise
• 1      tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• sea salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 4      tablespoons Cashew Ranch Dressing (recipe below)

1. Heat grill to medium.
2. Season chicken breast, corn, asparagus, bell pepper and zucchini with olive oil, sea salt and pepper.
3. Grill chicken 6-7 minutes per side, internal temperature reaches 165 F. Grill corn 10-15 minutes, rotating after every pop, until corn is golden. Grill asparagus, bell pepper and zucchini 3-5 minutes per side, until tender.
4. Separate chicken, corn, asparagus, bell pepper and zucchini evenly into two bowls. Drizzle bowls with Cashew Ranch Dressing.

Note: Bowl leftovers can be refrigerated for up to four days.

Nutritional information per serving: 450 calories; 21 g total fat; 4.5 g saturated fat; 870 mg sodium; 31 g carbs; 6 g fiber; 10 g sugar; 38 g protein.

Cashew Ranch Dressing
Makes: 1 cup

• 1      cup raw, unsalted cashews
• 3/4   cup almost-boiling water
• 3      tablespoons Nakano Rice Vinegar – Natural or Nakano Organic Rice Vinegar – Natural
• 1      clove garlic, minced
• 1/4   teaspoon dried dill
• 1/4   teaspoon dried oregano
• 1      teaspoon sea salt
• 1      teaspoon black pepper
• 2      tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives

1. In food processor, puree cashews, water, rice vinegar, garlic, dill, oregano, salt and pepper 3-4 minutes, until creamy. For best results, drizzle water in gradually as food processor is running. Stir in chives.

Note: Leftover dressing can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to seven days.

Nutritional information per tablespoon: 50 calories; 4 g total fat; 0.5 g saturated fat; 110 mg sodium; 3 g carbs; 1 g sugar; 2 g protein.

Tuna Stuffed Avocado

Servings: 2

• 1      ripe avocado
• 1      can (5 ounces) tuna packed in water, drained
• 1/2   cup finely diced celery
• 1/2   cup grated carrot
• 1/4   cup finely diced red onion
• 2      tablespoons Nakano Rice Vinegar – Natural or Nakano Organic Rice Vinegar – Natural
• 1/2   tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2   tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/8   teaspoon sea salt
• 1/8   teaspoon black pepper
• 16    brown rice crackers

1. Cut avocado in half, remove pit and scoop out flesh leaving thin wall of avocado. Dice avocado flesh and set shell aside for serving.
2. In small bowl, combine tuna, celery, carrot, onion, vinegar, oil, mustard, salt and pepper. Mix well. Gently stir in diced avocado.
3. Scoop mixture into avocado shells and serve with brown rice crackers.

Nutritional information per serving: 360 calories; 19 g total fat; 3 g saturated fat; 530 mg sodium; 26 g carbs; 9 g fiber; 3 g sugar; 22 g protein.

Source: Nakano Rice Vinegar

(Family Features) From the celebrity on TV to your coworker at the watercooler, everyone is talking about turmeric. That’s because scientific evidence has been building around the potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, of curcumin, a compound in turmeric. These six tempting recipes – from a morning shake to baked chicken – will quickly make turmeric the new star of your spice cabinet. Find more tips for using turmeric at McCormick.com.

1. Chocolate Banana Shake with Turmeric and Cinnamon
   

   Take breakfast to go with a scrumptious shake made with a turmeric cocoa spice blend, roasted pistachios, frozen bananas and sweet dates.

2. Creamy Coconut Butternut Squash Soup
   

   This cozy classic balances the sweet and savory flavors of coconut milk and butternut squash.

3. Turmeric Vinaigrette

   Add earthy goodness to an everyday salad with this simple vinaigrette, made with turmeric, ginger, honey and sea salt.

4. Creamy Turmeric Dip
   

   Turmeric, sea salt, cinnamon, lemon juice and low-fat yogurt come together for a tasty dip that’s ready in just 5 minutes. Pack with vegetables and pita chips and take to work for a mid-afternoon snack.

5. Honey Mustard Turmeric Chicken
   

   Take baked chicken up a notch with a twist on everyone’s favorite sweet and tangy honey mustard marinade.

6. Golden Turmeric Milk
   

   Combine coconut milk, turmeric, vanilla and pumpkin pie spice to make this popular pick-me-up beverage.

Source: McCormick

(Family Features) With school, work and evening activities all spiraling in different directions, most families find that some things have to give. Make sure quality time around the dinner table isn’t one of them with these savvy solutions that can help make weekday meals a cinch.

One-dish wonders
Most busy families are well-versed in the benefits of slow cooker meals, but when you haven’t planned that far ahead there are other options, such as your oven’s broiler, that allow you to capture the convenience of single-dish meals. A cookie sheet filled with your favorite protein, veggies and a sprinkle of seasoning will broil in minutes. Just remember to cut your protein into small pieces that will cook through quickly and line your sheet with foil for easier cleanup. Another quick-fix idea: empty the odds and ends from the pantry and veggie drawer to make a stir-fry in minutes.

Go for the gold
When it comes to mealtime, Sunday dinner is the gold standard. It’s the one day of the week when you’re most likely to go “all out” and prepare a great-tasting meal. But you can achieve similar meals during the week using delicious, time-saving sides such as packaged Idahoan Signature Russets mashed potatoes, which can be made in just 5 minutes. The smooth flavor of Idahoan Signature Russets – like original homemade mashed potatoes with just a hint of butter and cream – makes any day taste like Sunday.

Quick-prep proteins
Every family has its favorite go-to meals that stand the test of time. Build your repertoire with a few recipes centered on proteins that take next to no time to prepare. Eggs don’t have to be restricted to the breakfast table, especially in preparations like a frittata or quiche. Or rely on seafood, which can be seared to perfection in minutes. A mild white fish is an ideal foundation for creating diverse, rich flavors, such as this Seared Halibut with Lemon Butter Sauce.

For more tips to increase family time and get quick meals on the weeknight dinner table, visit idahoan.com.

Seared Halibut with Lemon Butter Sauce

Serves: 4

Lemon Butter Sauce

• 1/2       cup white wine
• 1/4       cup fresh lemon juice
• 8          tablespoons whipping cream
• 3/4       teaspoon fresh garlic, chopped
• turmeric, to taste
• salt, to taste
• white pepper, to taste
• 8          tablespoons unsalted butter, diced

Halibut

• 4          teaspoons olive oil
• 4          halibut filets (6-8 ounces each)
• salt
• pepper
• lemon zest
• herbs

Vegetables

• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 2          small zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch strips
• 2          small yellow squash, cut into 1/4-inch strips
• 2          small red peppers, washed, seeded and sliced into strips

Potatoes

• 2          cups Idahoan Signature Russets Mashed Potatoes (from 16.23-ounce package)

1. For lemon butter sauce, add white wine, lemon juice, cream, garlic, turmeric, salt and pepper to saute pan. Heat on high heat and reduce to half its original volume.
2. While lemon sauce is reducing, prepare fish and vegetables.
3. Once reduced, remove from heat and swirl in diced butter.
4. For halibut, heat non-stick skillet on medium-high heat with olive oil. Season halibut with salt and pepper. Sear until deep golden brown, approximately 5 minutes each side. Remove from heat and cover with foil.
5. For vegetables, add olive oil to skillet over medium-high heat. Saute zucchini, squash and pepper until crisp-tender, about 2-3 minutes. Keep warm.
6. For potatoes, prepare mashed potatoes following package instructions.
7. To serve, plate mashed potatoes, vegetables and halibut. Drizzle halibut with lemon butter sauce and garnish with lemon zest and fresh herbs.

Note: Haddock or striped bass can be substituted for halibut.

Hoisin Roasted Pork with Steamed Greens

Serves: 4

• 2          tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2          tablespoons honey
• 1          tablespoon soy sauce
• 1          pork tenderloin filet (16 ounces)
• 8          ounces fresh sugar snap peas
• 8          ounces green beans
• 2          cups Idahoan Signature Russets Mashed Potatoes (from 16.23-ounce package)

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. In bowl, combine hoisin, honey and soy. In non-metallic bowl, pour marinade over pork and set aside for 15 minutes.
3. Heat medium nonstick frying pan over medium heat. Add marinated pork and cook each side 1-2 minutes.
4. Transfer pork to baking tray and cook 15 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Steam fresh sugar snap peas and green beans together. Set aside.
6. Prepare mashed potatoes following package instructions.
7. To serve, plate mashed potatoes, sliced pork and steamed vegetables. Spoon pan juices over pork and enjoy.

Roasted Chicken Provencal

Serves: 4

• 8          chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2       cup dry white wine
• 1/4       cup chicken broth
• 2          thyme sprigs
• 2          garlic cloves, crushed
• 2          cups Idahoan Signature Russets Mashed Potatoes (from 16.23-ounce package)
• 1          cup sliced cremini mushrooms
• 1/2       cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4       cup pitted black olives, halved
• sauteed green beans

1. Sprinkle chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, brown chicken thighs on both sides in hot oil. Add white wine, chicken broth, thyme sprigs and garlic.
2. Over high heat, heat mixture to boiling. Cover and simmer 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, prepare mashed potatoes according to package directions.
4. In skillet, add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes and olives; cover and simmer 5 minutes longer until chicken is tender.
5. Serve chicken thighs with mashed potatoes and sauteed green beans.

Source: Idahoan Mashed Potatoes

(Family Features) Warmer weather may mean finding ways to cool off, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring bold flavors to the gathering you’re hosting with family and friends. Whether it’s a barbecue bash or a casual pool party, there is a flavorful blend perfect for nearly every occasion.

When the sun is shining, it’s time to fire up the grill, which means you can get creative and show off your skills. Add a little flavor to your world – Dale Sabor A Tu Mundo – with a versatile ingredient like Tabasco Sauce, which has helped personalize the flavors of food across the globe for nearly 150 years. Whether used as an ingredient or condiment, it can add flavor to virtually any type of cuisine, including Mexican favorites like this Parrillada Mixta with Garlic and Sweet Chipotle Marinades.

Throw some steak, shrimp and chicken on the grill and combine with sweet and spicy marinades to create a grilled spread that’s nearly irresistible. Take it up a notch and serve it with sides such as fresh limes, sizzling onions, creamy guacamole, pico de gallo and soft corn tortillas to complete your meal. It’s a tasty way to add an extra kick of flavor to summer entertaining.

Find more recipes and ways to flavor your world at Tabasco.com.

Parrillada Mixta with Garlic and Sweet Chipotle Marinades

Servings: 6-8

Garlic Chipotle Marinade:

• 14        garlic cloves, peeled
• 1          medium white onion, quartered
• 1 1/2    cups light Mexican beer
• 3/4       cup olive oil
• 1          tablespoon coarse black pepper
• 4          tablespoons Tabasco Chipotle Pepper Sauce 
• 1          teaspoon salt 
• 2          flank steaks (1 pound each)

Sweet Chipotle Marinade:

• 8          garlic cloves, peeled
• 1          red bell pepper, de-seeded and stemmed 
• 1          small white onion
• 1          teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1          teaspoon smoked paprika
• 8          tablespoons olive oil
• 8          tablespoons agave syrup
• 4          tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 1/4    cups orange juice
• 1 1/4    cups cold water
• 4          tablespoons Tabasco Chipotle Pepper Sauce 
• salt, to taste 
• 2          pounds extra-large shrimp, peeled, deveined and tails on
• 4-6       boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1. To make Garlic Chipotle Marinade: In blender, puree garlic, onion, beer, olive oil and pepper. Transfer puree to large mixing bowl; add chipotle sauce and salt.
2. Place steaks in re-sealable plastic bag and pour in marinade.

Note: Marinating time depends on the cut of beef selected. For fajitas or skirt steak, marinate at least 6 hours. 

1. To make Sweet Chipotle Marinade: In blender, puree garlic, bell pepper, onion, cinnamon, paprika, olive oil, agave, lime juice, orange juice, water and chipotle pepper sauce.
2. In separate re-sealable plastic bags, divide marinade over chicken and shrimp. Allow shrimp to marinate 8 hours and chicken 24 hours.
3. To prepare meat: Remove steak, shrimp and chicken from marinade and set aside. Heat grill to medium-high heat. Brush off excess marinade and grill chicken first, to desired doneness, then steak and shrimp.

Note: Cooking times will vary depending on cuts of meat and desired doneness. For best results, use a meat thermometer.

Serving suggestion: Place steak, shrimp and chicken on large platter and serve with side items such as fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, grilled onions, fresh limes and fresh corn tortillas.

Source: Tabasco

(Family Features) You may be spending too much time in the kitchen and not enough time enjoying meals with loved ones. However, simple solutions like Perdue Fresh Cuts can make it easier to prep and clean up meals using chicken, saving you up to 30 minutes. For more information, visit perdue.com/freshcuts.

Source:  Perdue

Main dish options for outdoor entertaining

(Family Features) Serving up an outdoor meal is a summertime staple for gatherings of all kinds – barbecues, celebrations, picnics and more. However, with so many options available and different styles for preparing the dishes, it can be a challenge for home chefs to decide what guests will go for.

Instead of racking your brain or spending hours searching for the right main course, consider these versatile options – one dish focused on chicken, one for beef and one for pork – that can send partygoers back for seconds.

Find more recipes perfect for outdoor gatherings at Culinary.net.

Serve Up Skewers

Ideal for simple family meals or full-blown summertime parties, these Honey-Lime Chicken Skewers are an ideal handheld food for outdoor meals. With just a handful of ingredients and an easy grilling method involved, they’re tasty and tantalizing without taking your focus off all the fun and festivities. More honey-infused recipes are available at Honey.com.

Honey-Lime Chicken Skewers

Recipe courtesy of The National Honey Board
Servings: 8

• 2          tablespoons honey
• 3          tablespoons soy sauce
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1          lime, juiced
• 1          pound chicken breast strips, skinless and boneless
• bamboo skewers

1. In small bowl, whisk honey, soy sauce, olive oil and lime juice until completely blended. Pour mixture into re-sealable freezer bag and add chicken strips. Seal bag and gently shake to cover chicken strips. Allow to marinate 2 hours.
2. Heat grill to medium-high heat.
3. Soak bamboo skewers in water 15 minutes. Remove chicken strips from marinade and skewer onto bamboo sticks. Grill 8 minutes, or until juices are clear and chicken is fully cooked.

Sweet Summer Refresh

Summer typically brings about both the desire to feel healthier and cravings for sweet, refreshing meals. When you rethink your food and focus on feeling better about your diet and yourself, the two can work hand-in-hand.
Liven up your summer entertaining menu with a delicious touch of reduced-calorie sweetness from Truvia in recipes like this sizzling Java London Broil. Celebrity chef Devin Alexander, featured on “The Biggest Loser,” created this succulent recipe with less sugar by using Truvia Brown Sugar Blend, combining stevia sweetener with brown sugar to maintain the taste and texture of brown sugar with 75 percent fewer calories, for her latest book “You Can Have It!”

For more summertime recipe ideas, visit Truvia.com.

Java London Broil

Recipe courtesy of Devin Alexander from “You Can Have It!,” copyright American Diabetes Association
Servings: 6

• 2          teaspoons freshly ground coffee
• 1/2       tablespoon Truvia Brown Sugar Blend
• 2          teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1          teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2       teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4       teaspoon sea salt
• 1          London broil (1 1/2 pounds, preferably grass fed)
• 1          teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

1. Heat grill to high.
2. In small bowl, add coffee, brown sugar blend, black pepper, coriander, oregano and salt; mix well.
3. Place London broil on cutting board or large plate. Drizzle 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil on each side of meat then rub all over. Sprinkle seasoning mixture over roast and rub in to evenly cover meat.
4.  
5. Grill London broil to desired doneness, about 3-5 minutes per side for medium rare. Tent meat with foil for 5 minutes then slice into thin slices, cutting at an angle against the grain.

Sweet and Savory Ribs

By starting these Grilled Sticky Ribs in the oven before finishing them off on the grill with a sweet chili glaze, home cooks can help make summer festivities stand out without spending hours at the grill or smoker. The Asian-inspired finish of the glaze gives guests a unique taste to savor while soaking in the summer sun. Visit verybestbaking.com for more recipes from Nestlé.

Grilled Sticky Ribs

Recipe courtesy of Nestlé
Prep time: 20 minutes
Total time: 3 hours, 35 minutes
Servings: 5-6

• 2          racks (about 4 pounds) baby back ribs
• garlic salt
• ground black pepper
• 1/2       cup water
• 1          tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4       cup finely chopped red onion
• 1          teaspoon finely chopped garlic
• 1          teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 3/4       cup sweet chili sauce
• 1/2       cup Apple Nestlé Juicy Juice 100% Juice
• 1 tablespoon rice wine (mirin)

1. Heat oven to 300° F. Using knife, remove membrane from bone side of ribs. Pat ribs dry with paper towel; season both sides liberally with garlic salt and pepper. Place ribs in large roasting pan, overlapping as needed. Add water to pan. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
2. Bake about 3 hours, or until meat is tender but not quite falling off bones.
3. In small saucepan over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onion; cook, stirring occasionally, 2-3 minutes, or until soft. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook 1 minute. Stir in sweet chili sauce, apple juice and rice wine. Reduce heat to low; cook 8 minutes, or until sauce is reduced to about 1 cup.
4. Heat grill to medium heat.
5. Brush glaze over tops of ribs. Grill 4-5 minutes, or until sauce caramelizes. Serve with remaining glaze.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images (Honey-Lime Chicken Skewers, Java London Broil)

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) One of the best parts of warmer weather for many families is the availability of fresh ingredients for meals at home. The unique tastes provide a variety of recipes that can be prepared with everyone in mind, including crisp flavors to help satisfy adults and kids alike.

For example, Michigan asparagus is hand-harvested at more than 120 family farms, meaning each spear is snapped at its optimal point to produce an all-edible product with no woody ends.

To help keep that fresh-picked flavor, the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board recommends storing asparagus upright in about an inch of water after trimming the ends. Loosely cover the container with plastic and keep it refrigerated.

Whether you’re enjoying it blanched, roasted or on the grill, it’s a perfect complement for warmer weather. This Asparagus Crust White Chicken Pizza from author Gina Ferwerda is a creative take on the seasonal vegetable. Find more inspiration in Ferwerda’s cookbook, “Meals from the Mitten.”

For more information and recipes, visit michiganasparagus.org .

Asparagus Crust White Chicken Pizza

Recipe courtesy of Gina Ferwerda on behalf of the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board
Servings: 4

Asparagus Crust:

• 2          cups cut-up fresh or frozen Michigan asparagus, blanched
• 1          egg
• 2/3       cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2/3       cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1          tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning

White Sauce:

• 2          tablespoons butter
• 1/4       cup chopped leeks
• 1          clove garlic, minced
• 1          tablespoon flour
• 3/4       cup milk
• 1/4       cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1          cup cubed rotisserie chicken
• 1          cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2       cup frozen green peas, thawed
• 1/2       cup cut-up fresh or frozen Michigan asparagus, blanched and seasoned with avocado oil and lemon pepper seasoning
• 1/4       cup chopped prosciutto
• fresh chives, for garnish
• fresh basil, for garnish

1. Heat oven to 375° F.
2. To make Asparagus Crust: In food processor, puree blanched asparagus until smooth. In large bowl, mix asparagus puree, egg, Parmesan, mozzarella and lemon pepper seasoning until thoroughly combined.
3. Press asparagus mixture into circular shape on parchment paper-lined pizza stone or baking sheet. Place layer of paper towel over crust and gently press down to remove excess moisture. Repeat until paper towel is no longer absorbing moisture. Discard wet paper towels.
4. Bake 12-13 minutes.
5. To make White Sauce: In saucepan over medium heat, cook butter, leeks and garlic 3-4 minutes. Slowly whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes. Slowly add in milk, continue whisking and cook until thickened. Add Parmesan then remove from heat and set aside.
6. Pour white sauce over partially baked asparagus crust and top with chicken and mozzarella. Add peas, asparagus and prosciutto. Bake 5-8 minutes, or until cheese is thoroughly melted. Garnish with fresh chives or basil.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Asparagus on the grill)

Source: Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board

6 flavor pairings to amp up summer grilling

(Family Features) The grill is often the star of summer gatherings, from weeknight meals to backyard barbecues and family reunions. Impress your guests and add an extra layer of smoky flavor to backyard favorites with the help of rich and aromatic woodchips. Add to your gas or charcoal grill and create big flavor.  

Adding woodchips to your favorite recipes can help highlight distinct flavors for your mains and sides in one simple step. For rich dishes like steak and beef, pair with an intense hickory flavored woodchip. For lighter meats like pork and chicken, pair with subtle, fruit flavored chips like cherry and apple. When it comes to seafood, try pairing with a mild, nutty chip like pecan.

Take these classic McCormick recipes, with simple prep and bold marinades, and add a smoky twist with flavor-forward woodchips.

For more summer grilling recipes, visit McCormick.com, and find McCormick on Facebook and Pinterest.

1. Brown Sugar Bourbon and Honey Mustard Pork
   

   For a tangy twist, try grilling over apple woodchips to get a mix of sweet and spicy flavors from the honey mustard and a brown sugar bourbon marinade.

2. Spicy Teriyaki Grilled Wings
   

   Add cherry woodchips to put a smoky, sweet note on top on your crispy chicken wings. Coat in a sweet and spicy teriyaki marinade for a perfect backyard barbecue appetizer straight off the grill.

3. Memphis Style Ribs

   Prepare your fire with intense, hickory woodchips to complement the Memphis style, zesty rub, and let the flavors build slowly over indirect heat.

4. Spicy and Sweet Grilled Steak

   Grill your steak over mesquite woodchips to layer on a smoky finish. Marinate with a hot, smoky chipotle pepper marinade and top it with a layer of sweet and smoky rub to give the meat a bold, tasty crust.

5. Montreal Salmon Rub

   Add oak woodchips to lend a subtle, savory and smoky flavor. A rub of dry seasoning, lemon peel and dill weed can enhance the natural flavor of salmon on the grill.

6. Grilled Shrimp Skewers

   Try pecan woodchips for a unique flavor boost to your platter of grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers, which are ideal for entertaining. They’re easy to assemble and look just as appealing.

Source: McCormick