(Family Features) This Cinco de Mayo, gather the whole family together and enjoy a true Mexican fiesta like Mama Ortega would have thrown over 100 years ago. With mariachi music, dancing, piñatas and traditional homemade Mexican meals, Mama's fiestas were always a favorite with family, friends and especially her 13 children!

The flavors and smells of Mama's homemade meals still taste great today, but are easier to create - and more fun to eat! Her legendary meals inspired today's convenient and great tasting Ortega Mexican products. Achieve authentic fiesta flavors by using crisp and crunchy Ortega taco shells made with whole kernel corn, topped with slow simmered Ortega Taco Sauce and authentic fire-roasted green chiles. Ortega's zesty Mexican seasonings and fresh-tasting salsas are perfect for adding flavor to your favorite snack, casserole, dip or soup!

So, gather the family together and enjoy a fiesta of flavors with Ortega. For other great recipe ideas or to learn more about Ortega's line of products, visit www.ortega.com.

Taco Rice and Beans

Prep time: 5 minutes
Start to finish: 15 minutes
Serves 4

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 package (1.25 ounces) Ortega Taco Seasoning Mix
• 1 cup water
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1/4 cup Ortega Thick & Chunky Salsa

1. In skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion; cook 3 minutes. Add taco seasoning mix and water. Stir until combined and slightly thickened. Add beans, rice and salsa; stir. Cook 5 minutes more or until contents are heated through.

Grilled Margarita Shrimp

Prep time: 40 minutes
Start to finish: 50 minutes
Serves 6

• 1 cup margarita mix
• 1 cup Ortega Taco Sauce, divided
• 2 pounds raw shrimp (21 to 30), peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons Ortega Diced Green Chiles

1. In large bowl, pour margarita mix and 1/2 cup taco sauce over shrimp and toss well. Marinate in refrigerator 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Preheat grill until sizzling hot, about 15 minutes. Grill shrimp 4 minutes on each side or until pink.
3. Combine remaining 1/2 cup taco sauce with green chiles to use as dipping sauce.

Ham and Cheese Quesadillas

Prep time: 10 minutes
Start to finish: 20 minutes
Serves 5

• 1/2 pound cooked ham, diced
• 3/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• Zest of one lime
• 2 green onions, white and green parts, diced
• 1 Ortega Soft Taco Kit - includes 10 soft tortillas, 1 package (1.25 ounces) taco seasoning mix and 1 package (3 ounces) taco sauce
• Cooking spray
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup sour cream

1. In mixing bowl, combine diced ham, cream cheese, lime zest, green onions and half of taco seasoning packet contained in soft taco kit. Heat large skillet on medium and spray with cooking spray.
2. Spread about 1 teaspoon taco sauce onto a flour tortilla and then spread about 1/4 cup ham/cream cheese mixture on top.
3. Place tortilla-side down onto hot skillet and top with another flour tortilla. Heat about 4 minutes, until bottom of tortilla is browned; spray top of the other tortilla and flip. Cook another 4 minutes and repeat with remaining quesadillas. Cook two at a time if skillet is large enough.
4. Cut into wedges and top with tomato, cilantro and sour cream and serve.

Mexican Meatballs

Prep time: 15 minutes
Start to finish: 30 minutes
Makes about 30 meatballs

• 3 Ortega Yellow Corn Taco Shells
• 1 pound (16 ounces) lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Ortega Chili Seasoning Mix
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons Ortega Diced Green Chiles
• 1 bottle (8 ounces) Ortega Taco Sauce
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

1. Break taco shells into food processor and pulse several times to create about 1/2 cup taco shell crumbs. Place into large mixing bowl and add ground beef, seasoning mix, egg and green chiles. Mix thoroughly.
2. Form mixture into 30 (1-inch) meatballs and drop into hot skillet. Cook until they begin to brown. Carefully turn over and continue browning. Add taco sauce. Coat meatballs with sauce and simmer over low heat, uncovered, 10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle meatballs with cheese and garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve with toothpicks.

Photos copyright (c) 2008 Publications International, Ltd. Used by permission.

Source: Ortega

(Family Features) With summer in full swing, outdoor chefs are fine-tuning their grilling game and looking for creative twists on backyard food favorites. But most cooks often overlook a classic pantry staple that's a great secret ingredient and unlikely ally when entertaining outdoors: 100% pure honey.

It's an all-natural sweetener that keeps things simple with only one, pure ingredient: honey. And it's not only limited to desserts and drinks. Savory dishes that call for time on the grill can benefit just as much from incorporating 100% pure honey. It's perfect for homemade, natural-ingredient marinades and in addition to its one-of-a-kind flavor, it aids in caramelization, a key process in grilling.

Also working in 100% pure honey's favor is its sheer versatility. You can impress guests by using it in all kinds of cuisine. For a sweet summer lineup from appetizers to dessert, try these distinctive recipes.

For even more recipes to make your summer sweeter, visit www.honey.com.

Grilled Honey Glazed Shrimp

Makes 6 servings

• 1 cup orange juice
• 3/4 cup 100% pure honey
• 1/3 cup lime juice
• 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons black and red pepper blend
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon California-style coarse onion powder
• 30 jumbo shrimp
• 12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

1. Place orange juice, honey, lime juice, mustard and dry seasonings in a blender and blend on high for 1 minute until smooth. Pour into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 12 minutes or until thickened and reduced by half. Divide the glaze into 2 plastic containers, seal tightly and refrigerate until ready to use. Thread shrimp onto skewers. Cook shrimp over hot coals for about 3 minutes on each side or until completely pink, basting with one container of the glaze during grilling. Remove from grill and baste with remaining glaze.

Honey Marinated Chicken

Makes 4 servings

• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons 100% pure honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 1/3 cup 100% pure honey

1. Blend all marinade ingredients (exclude the 1/3 cup honey); pour over chicken breasts. Marinate in refrigerator overnight in plastic bag. Remove chicken from marinade; discard marinade. Grill six to 10 minutes, turning once and basting occasionally with 1/3 cup honey during last five minutes of grilling.

Strawberry Chiffon Pie

Makes 8 servings

• 2 cups (12 ounces) coarsely chopped strawberries, fresh or frozen
• 3/4 cup 100% pure honey, divided
• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 cup light sour cream
• Prepared 9-inch crumb crust

1. In small bowl, mash strawberries and 1/4 cup honey; set aside.
2. In small saucepan, sprinkle gelatin over cold water; let stand five minutes. Stir in remaining 1/2 cup honey. Warm over low heat until gelatin dissolves. Transfer to large bowl; stir in sour cream. Cover and refrigerate 20 to 30 minutes or until mixture mounds on a spoon when tested.
3. Using electric mixer, beat mixture at medium speed until light. Fold in strawberries; mix until well combined. Pour into prepared crust. Cover and refrigerate at least two hours.

Citrus Salad with Avocado

Makes 6 servings

• 3 6-inch corn tortillas
• 4 oranges
• 4 grapefruits
• 1/3 cup 100% pure honey
• 1/4 cup raspberry vinegar
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 avocado, sliced

1. Preheat oven to 255°F. Slice tortillas into very thin strips. Dry strips by placing on a cookie sheet and baking for approximately 15 minutes. Set aside
2. Peel oranges and grapefruits, then section, seed and place in large bowl; set aside. In small bowl, whisk together honey, raspberry vinegar, oil and salt.
3. Pour over citrus sections and toss gently.
4. Top with avocado slices and tortilla strips.

Honey Raspberry Iced Tea

Makes 4 servings

• 2 cups freshly brewed tea
• 2 cups cranberry-raspberry juice
• 1/4 cup 100% pure honey

1. In large, heat-proof pitcher, whisk together all ingredients until thoroughly combined and honey is dissolved. Chill until ready to serve. To serve, pour over ice.

Source: National Honey Board

Easy ways to grill up something surprisingly good

(Family Features) Bananas aren't just for breakfast or lunch anymore. By grilling this popular fruit, you can add a whole new flavor dimension to a dinnertime recipe and turn a basic dessert into something wow.

Adding bananas to your summer grilling routine is a fun way to eat fruit. You can grill them in their peels while the BBQ coals are still hot or add peeled slices to a tasty kabob - it's that simple. From kid-friendly desserts to grown-up dishes with a tropical twist, make it easy on yourself and go bananas on the grill.

For more Dole Banana recipes and serving suggestions, go to www.dole.com/en/products/bananas. To share banana recipes anytime, go to www.facebook.com/DOLEbananas.

Did You Know?

• With no fat, cholesterol or sodium, vitamin-packed bananas are a guilt-free summertime treat.
• Banana peels are great for polishing shoes. Use (the inside of) an empty peel on your leather shoes as you would shoe polish and then buff off with a soft cloth. The banana's oils soak into the leather and, like most commercial shoe polishes, contains potassium.
• As bananas ripen, the starch in the fruit turns to sugar. Therefore, the riper the banana, the sweeter it will taste.
• Ten or more bananas growing together are called "hands" and a single banana is called a "finger." Four to six bananas sold in the store are called a "cluster."

How to Store Bananas

• Remove bananas from plastic produce bag and store at room temperature. The warmer it is, the faster the bananas will ripen.
• To slow ripening, refrigerate (peel will turn black but the fruit inside will be fresh and ripe). Bananas can be frozen once the banana is peeled and stored in a freezer bag until ready to use (use a bit of fresh lemon juice to reduce browning).
• If bananas are too green, place them in a brown paper bag, in a warm dry area (but not in direct sunlight) for a day or two to encourage ripening. If there is still not enough yellow appearing on the peel, place a ripe apple in the bag with the bananas.

Island Kabobs with Tropical Fruit Salsa

Preparation : 10 minutes
Grill Time: 10 minutes
Makes: 4 servings

• 2 ripe, firm Dole® Bananas, peeled, each cut into 6 pieces, plus 1 ripe Dole Banana, peeled and diced
• 12 chunks Dole Tropical Gold Pineapple
• 16 extra large or jumbo shrimp, shelled and deveined
• 1 green or red bell pepper, cut into 8 pieces
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 mango, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon chopped mint
• 1 Dole Green Onion, minced
• 2 to 3 teaspoons minced jalapeño pepper

1. Thread banana pieces, pineapple, shrimp and bell pepper pieces equally onto skewers.
2. Whisk together lime juice, oil and allspice in small bowl. Brush 2 tablespoons over kabobs.
3. Combine remaining marinade with diced banana, mango, mint, green onion and jalapeño pepper; place in a serving dish.
4. Grill kabobs over medium high heat 8 to 10 minutes, turning once or until the shrimp are opaque. Arrange the kabobs on top of the salsa.

Teriyaki Pork Chops with Grilled Bananas

Preparation : 20 minutes
Grill Time: 20 minutes
Makes: 3 to 4 servings

• 1/4 cup dry sherry
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound boneless pork chops (3 to 4)
• 2 large firm Dole Bananas, peeled
• 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 cups hot cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons sliced Dole Green Onion
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seed

1. Combine sherry, soy sauce, brown sugar and oil in small bowl. Remove 2 tablespoons sherry mixture and brush on pork chops and bananas.
2. Grill pork 8 to 10 minutes on each side until cooked through. Grill bananas 2 to 3 minutes on each side until heated through. Cut each into 1-inch pieces.
3. Combine remaining sherry mixture and cornstarch in small saucepan; cook, stirring until thickened.
4. Arrange pork and bananas over rice on serving plate; drizzle with sauce. Sprinkle with green onion and sesame seed.

Grilled Bananas

No prep needed.
Grill Time: 10 minutes
Makes: 4 servings

• 4 Dole Bananas, unpeeled
• Assorted favorite dessert toppings

1. Place unpeeled bananas on grill over medium high heat.
2. Grill 4 to 5 minutes on each side until peels blacken and soften. Insides will be custard-like.
3. Serve warm or chilled with your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, chopped nuts, miniature marshmallows, chocolate bits, caramel or frozen yogurt.

Grilled Caribbean Fruit Salsa

Preparation: 10 minutes
Grill Time: 8 minutes
Makes: 4 servings

• 1/2 fresh Dole Tropical Gold Pineapple, peeled and sliced vertically
• 1 large, ripe firm Dole Banana, slice in half vertically
• 1 mango, skinned, peeled and sliced in half vertically
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup red onion, minced
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 kiwi, diced

1. Combine pineapple, banana and mango slices with the olive oil and lime juice.
2. Brush to coat the fruit. Place fruit on grill.
3. Grill fruit 4 to 5 minutes each side, remove and cool slightly.
4. Roughly chop the grilled fruit, reserving juices.
5. Combine fruit and reserved juices with the red onion, red pepper flakes and kiwi.
6. Serve warm or room temperature. Great with grilled chicken or fish.

Source: Dole

(Family Features) Dining out in the fresh air always seems to turn even a simple meal into an event. You can turn your next dinner party into a memorable event with these simple and delicious recipes.

- Rosemary Almond Crackers make a terrific appetizer served alongside cheese or a savory dip.
- Spiced Almonds can be served in a martini glass for a stylish addition to any party.
- Almond Crusted Shrimp are deceptively easy - and distinctly delicious.
- Banana Almond Kahlúa Frappés are a cool and creamy way to finish off the evening.

California Almonds aren't just delicious, crunchy, and ideal for any snack or mealtime, they're also a nutritious solution that adds a burst of flavor and texture to any recipe.

For more entertaining tips and recipes, visit AlmondBoard.com.

Nutrition Made Easy - and Delicious

California Almonds are an excellent source of Vitamin E (35% DV), magnesium (20% DV), manganese (.648 mg), fiber (3.5 g), protein (6 g), copper (0.3 mg), phosphorus (137 mg), and riboflavin (0.3 mg). Plus, a one-ounce serving has 13 grams of good unsaturated fats, just 1 gram of saturated fat, and is always cholesterol- and gluten-free.

Here are some more ideas for making your next gathering a little more special - and a little more nutritious.

- Craving something sweet? Try adding toasted sliced almonds and crumbled biscotti to your favorite gelato.
- In a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat, toss whole natural or slivered almonds in a small amount of vegetable oil until golden. Add your choice of dried herbs and then sprinkle over salads, vegetables, or pasta for the perfect accent. And - if you don't have time to make your own, grab your favorite flavored almonds from your local grocer.

Rosemary Almond Crackers

Created by Elana Amsterdam author of "The Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cookbook"
Makes 24 crackers

• 1 3/4 cups blanched almond flour
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 egg

1. In large bowl, combine almond flour, salt and rosemary. In medium bowl, whisk together olive oil and egg. Stir wet ingredients into almond flour mixture until thoroughly combined.
2. Roll dough into a ball and press between 2 sheets of parchment paper to 1/8-inch thickness. Remove top piece of parchment paper.
3. Transfer the bottom piece with rolled out dough onto baking sheet. Cut dough into 2-inch squares with a knife or pizza cutter.
4. Bake at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes, until lightly golden. Let crackers cool on baking sheet for 30 minutes, then serve.

Almond Crusted Shrimp

Created by Almond Board of California
Makes 4 servings

• 1/2 cup ground almonds
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoons minced fresh parsley, or 1/2 teaspoon dried
• 1/2 teaspoon seafood seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound (61- to 70-count) shrimp, with tails and veins removed
• 1 egg white
• 2 tablespoons almond or corn oil, divided
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

1. Stir together almonds, flour, parsley, seafood seasoning, salt and pepper.
2. Dip each shrimp in egg white, then in almond mixture; lay on a baking sheet or platter until ready to cook. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet; grill shrimp in batches on medium heat, cooking 3 to 4 minutes, turning once, until pink and golden. Use remaining 1 tablespoon oil as necessary.
3. Serve shrimp immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges.

Spiced Almonds

Created by Ellie Krieger author of "So Easy: Luscious Healthy Recipes for Every Meal of the Week"
Makes 8 servings

• 1 large egg white
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
• 2 teaspoons dark brown sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 cups natural almonds

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In large bowl whisk together egg white, paprika, sugar, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper until well combined. Add almonds and toss until evenly coated.
3. Transfer almonds to parchment lined baking tray; spread out to form a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes, until the coating is crisp. Almonds will continue to crisp as they cool. Allow to cool completely then break up any nuts that are stuck together. Nuts will keep up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Banana Almond Kahlúa Frappé

Created by Almond Board of California
Makes 4 servings

• 1 cup crushed ice or 1 1/2 cups ice cubes
• 2 medium bananas, cut into chunks
• 4 ounces almond milk
• 2 ounces Kahlúa or other coffee liqueur
• 1/2 ounce Irish cream liqueur
• 4 whole natural or blanched almonds

1. Combine ice, bananas, almond milk and liqueurs in a blender; blend until smooth. Divide among 4 old-fashioned glasses and garnish each with an almond; serve immediately.

Source: California Almond Board

(Family Features) From packing lunches, to after-school snacks to dinnertime, many parents face obstacles in getting their families to eat food made with real simple ingredients that everyone can enjoy.

According to a recent survey commissioned by Hellmann's®, nearly half of all moms surveyed say they make a family meal every day and more than a third of moms surveyed say cooking dinner takes too much time.

For videos, tips and recipes go to www.Hellmanns.com or www.BestFoods.com.

Egg and Shrimp Salad with Poppy Seeds

A Bobby Flay Recipe
4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes

• 1/2 cup Hellmann's or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise
• 2 medium green onions
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 tablespoons snipped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 8 medium hard-cooked eggs, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 6 ounces cooked large shrimp or crabmeat

1. Combine mayonnaise, green onions, lemon juice, dill, poppy seeds and mustard in large bowl with wire whisk. Stir in eggs. Gently fold in shrimp. Season, if desired, with salt and black pepper. Serve, if desired, over salad greens or on English muffins.

NOTE: If serving over greens, toss greens with fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper. If serving on bread, serve as an open-faced sandwich. Mound some salad on top of toasted bread and garnish with more fresh dill and sliced green onions.

Mini Fish Tacos

A Bobby Flay Recipe
2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes

• 1/2 cup Hellmann's or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup prepared salsa
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 can (6 ounces) tuna, drained and flaked
• 1 large green onion, thinly sliced
• 12 large corn tortilla chips
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 3 ounces)

1. Combine mayonnaise, salsa and lime juice in medium bowl; reserve 1/2 cup. Stir tuna and green onion into remaining mayonnaise mixture just until combined. Season, if desired, with salt and pepper.
2. Arrange chips on baking pan. Top with tuna mixture, then sprinkle with cheese. Broil 1 minute or until cheese is melted. Dollop with reserved mayonnaise mixture. Garnish, if desired, with additional green onions.
3. Also terrific served in individual scoops for a great hand-held snack.

Chicken or Turkey Gyros

A Bobby Flay Recipe
4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes

• 1/4 cup coarsely grated seedless cucumber
• 3/4 cup Hellmann's or Best Foods Light Mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated lemon peel
• 4 whole wheat pita breads, split
• Fresh spinach leaves, rinsed and patted dry
• 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 pound sliced rotisserie or grilled chicken or turkey

1. Place grated cucumber on paper towel and gently squeeze dry. (Do not skip this step or you will have a watery dressing.) Combine drained cucumbers, mayonnaise garlic, lemon juice and peel in small bowl. Season, if desired, with salt and black pepper. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
2. Spread a few tablespoons dressing inside each pita; add spinach leaves, tomatoes and chicken, then drizzle with additional dressing.

Source: Hellmann's

(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

Festive flavors and seasonal sips

(Family Features) The holidays are the perfect time to gather with friends and family to celebrate the season.

Take the stress out of hosting by shopping at a store like ALDI for your holiday must-haves, including everything from food and wine to holiday decor and even gifts for nearly anyone on your list, helping you to save time and money.

Toast to the holidays with an impressive appetizer spread, paired with award-winning wines, with recipes like Cranberry Shrimp Ceviche Cups paired with the creamy and tropical taste of William Wright Chardonnay. Or whip up quick and easy Party Poppers made with dates, Brie cheese and bacon to mesh with the fruit, vanilla and spicy fall notes of Peaks & Tides Cabernet Sauvignon.

Blue Cheese and Walnut Mousse provides a savory finish when matched with La Rue Côtes de Provence Rosé and its hints of lavender, rosemary and thyme. Finally, add a little something sweet to your spread by pairing the refreshingly ripe Landshut Riesling with a festive Gingerbread Trifle.

Find more holiday recipes and shopping solutions at ALDI.us .

Blue Cheese and Walnut Mousse

Recipe courtesy of Chef Scott, ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Yield: 10 servings

• 2          tablespoons Simply Nature 100% Pure Avocado Oil
• 3          large yellow onions, sliced
• 5          ounces Happy Farms Preferred Blue Cheese Crumbles
• 8          ounces Happy Farms Cream Cheese
• Stonemill Ground Black Pepper, to taste
• 1          cup Friendly Farms Heavy Whipping Cream
• 8          ounces Southern Grove Chopped Walnuts, divided
• 5          cucumbers, thinly sliced

1. In large pan, heat oil and saute onions until brown and caramelized.
2. In food processor, combine blue cheese crumbles and cream cheese. Process until smooth. Season with pepper, to taste.
3. In medium bowl, using hand mixer, whisk cream until soft peaks form. Fold in cheese mixture and 4 ounces chopped walnuts.
4. Top cucumber slices with mousse, caramelized onions and remaining chopped walnuts. Finish by grinding black pepper over top for garnish.
5. Pair each serving with glass of La Rue Cotes de Provence Rosé.

Tip: Mousse can also be served as a dip with baguette slices.

Gingerbread Trifle

Recipe courtesy of the ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

• 1          package (3.4 ounces) Baker’s Corner Vanilla Pudding
• 1 3/4    cups Specially Selected Premium Eggnog
• 1/2       teaspoon Stonemill Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 7          ounces Café Bistro Soft Gingerbread, crumbled, divided
• 1 1/4    cups Friendly Farms Whipped Topping, divided
• 1          cup Berryhill Apple Butter, divided
• 2          teaspoons Stonemill Ground Cinnamon

1. Whisk vanilla pudding mix and eggnog. Add pumpkin pie spice and beat 2 min­utes. Chill in refrigerator 10 minutes.
2. In large glass bowl, layer one-third of gingerbread cookies, one-third of pudding, one-third of whipped topping and 1/2 cup apple butter; repeat two more times.
3. The third layer will end with whipped topping. Garnish with cinnamon.
4. Chill in refrigerator 2 hours.
5. Pair each serving with glass of Landshut Riesling.

Party Poppers

Recipe courtesy of Chef Alyssa, ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Yield: 36 poppers

• 8          ounces Southern Grove Pitted Dates
• 4          ounces Specially Selected Brie Cheese Round
• 6          ounces Southern Grove Slivered Almonds
• 1 1/2    pounds Specially Selected Thick Sliced Hickory Bacon
• 2          teaspoons Stonemill Ground Black Pepper

1. Heat oven to 375° F.
2. Cut dates in half, lengthwise.
3. Cut brie into bite-size pieces, about the size of peanuts.
4. Place one piece of Brie and four almond pieces on each open date half. Place other half on top.
5. Quarter bacon slices, wrap tightly around stuffed dates and secure with toothpicks. Sprinkle with pepper.
6. Line baking sheet with foil and place wrapped dates on top. Bake 15 minutes, or until bacon is crispy. Serve warm.
7. Pair each serving with glass of Peaks & Tides Cabernet Sauvignon.

Cranberry Shrimp Ceviche Cups

Recipe courtesy of Chef Kates, ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 20 minutes, plus 1 hour chill time
Cook time: 3 minutes
Yield: 16 ceviche cups

• 1 1/2    teaspoons Stonemill Iodized Salt, divided
• 16        ounces Specially Selected Black Tiger Shrimp, thawed
• 1          cup Southern Grove Dried Cranberries
• 1/2       red onion, roughly chopped
• 1/2       cup fresh parsley
• 1/2       jalapeno, roughly chopped
• 1/4       cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4       cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4       teaspoon Stonemill Crushed Red Pepper or Ground Black Pepper
• 1          teaspoon Stonemill Oregano
• 13        ounces Simply Nature Organic Tortilla Chips, for garnish
• 2          limes, cut into wedges, for garnish
• fresh cranberries, for garnish (optional)

1. Bring medium pot of water to boil. Season with 1 teaspoon salt. Add shrimp and cook 3 minutes. Immediately plunge cooked shrimp into ice water bath. Peel shrimp and place in flat dish.
2. In food processor, combine dried cranberries, red onion, parsley and jalapeno. Pulse until finely chopped. Add cranberry mixture to shrimp.
3. Add lemon juice, lime juice, remaining salt, pepper and oregano. Stir to combine thoroughly. Refrigerate 1 hour.
4. To assemble: Spoon ceviche (about 4-5 shrimp each) into small clear cups or glasses. Garnish with tortilla chips, lime wedges and fresh cranberries, if desired.
5. Pair each serving with glass of William Wright Chardonnay.

Source: ALDI

(Family Features) When it comes time to entertain family and friends, it’s important to have a few simple, warm appetizers and small plates at the ready. Plan your menu with recipes that can be prepped ahead of time and popped in the oven when guests arrive. It can make hosting easier and more enjoyable.

A versatile ingredient that can enhance your favorite sweet and savory recipes, Musselman’s Apple Butter is more than just a spread. It’s made the old-fashioned way for perfect texture and a rich apple-cinnamon flavor, giving parties and get-togethers a unique taste in recipes like these Apple Brie Bites and Apple Butter Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp.

Find more appetizers ideal for entertaining at musselmans.com.

Apple Butter Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Servings: 10

• 3/4       cup Musselman’s Apple Butter
• 1/2       cup maple syrup
• 1/2       teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1/2       teaspoon smoked paprika
• 10        pieces bacon
• 10        extra-large shrimp, cleaned and deveined
• chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)

1. Heat oven to 400° F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In medium-sized skillet over medium heat, add apple butter, maple syrup, red pepper flakes, salt and paprika. Whisk until mixture is thick and cooked down by half, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
3. In large skillet over medium heat, add bacon slices and cook until browned but still flexible.  Remove from pan and drain on paper towel-lined plate.
4. Wrap one bacon slice around each shrimp, secure with toothpick and place onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Once all shrimp have been wrapped, baste tops with apple butter mixture.
6. Bake 5 minutes then flip and baste other side of shrimp. Bake another 5 minutes. Continue to flip and baste shrimp (2 minutes each time) until shrimp is fully cooked. Do not overcook as glaze can burn. Sprinkle with cilantro, if desired.

Apple Brie Bites

Servings: 24

• 1          sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 5          ounces Brie cheese
• 1/2       cup Musselman's Apple Butter
• 1/4       cup pecans, chopped

1. Heat oven to 400° F. Grease mini muffin pan.
2. Press seams of puff pastry sheet together. Cut sheet into quarters then each quarter into six pieces. 
3. Use rolling pin to flatten each piece of pastry into square shape. Place one square into each muffin cup.
4. Put 1/2 teaspoon brie, 1 teaspoon apple butter and 1/2 teaspoon chopped pecans into each muffin cup.
5. Bake 13-15 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.

Source:

(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) Sheet pan and one-pot dinners can be perfect in a pinch, so it’s no wonder they’ve become a go-to for busy families. Cleanup is typically a breeze with just one pan, and it’s a quick way to get vegetables and protein all in one step. Combine your key ingredients with rich spices, herbs and sauces to create a flavorful meal in no time.

Visit McCormick.com or find McCormick on Facebook and Pinterest for more recipes to make your weeknight meals easier.

Orange Chili Sheet Pan Salmon

Salmon gets a sweet and spicy kick with this crowd-pleasing dish. Chili seasoning mix brings the heat while orange extract, brown sugar and red bell pepper create balance with tang and citrus flavors. Even sweeter: This recipe is made in one pan for an easy, weeknight-friendly meal.

Sheet Pan Shrimp Scampi

Garlic, butter and white wine create a winning flavor combination, which is freshened up with lemon juice, broccoli and cherry tomatoes in this sheet pan version of an Italian classic.

Sheet Pan Tuna Melt

Being short on time doesn’t mean you have to skimp on flavor. These tuna melts can be on the table in less than 15 minutes. Swap out mayonnaise for tartar sauce in the tuna salad as a better-for-you option with an extra kick.

Parmesan Herb Shrimp

In one pan, saute shrimp with Parmesan cheese, white wine and herbs, and serve over a bed of fluffy rice. This surprisingly simple, gourmet-tasting dish can be whipped up by nearly any home chef.

Basil Shrimp and Pasta Alfredo

Whisk up a creamy Alfredo sauce with fresh shrimp, bright green peas and crisp basil in just a few minutes. Simply toss with pasta in the same pan and you’re done.

Sheet Pan Lemon Butter Dill Tilapia

This white fish dish gets its flavor from a citrusy, lemon butter dill sauce that adds extra zest. Serve alongside asparagus, shallots and green beans for added veggie goodness.

Source: McCormick