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) With summer comes the opening of farmers markets bursting with fresh produce ripe for the taking. Pair your fresh-picked bounty with wholesome pecans for power-packed seasonal recipes from salads and snacks to side dishes and main courses.

American Pecans are The Original Supernut; a naturally sweet superfood that’s nutritious, versatile and local as it’s the only major tree nut native to America. Pecans are also among the highest in “good” monounsaturated fats and contain plant protein, fiber, flavonoids and essential minerals, including copper, manganese and zinc, so you can feel good when adding them to your next meal or snack.

After a morning at the farmers market, cook up a nourishing spread for breakfast or lunch. For a quick, mess-free brunch, try Sheet Pan Eggs with Pecan Breakfast “Sausage.” Substitute flavored ground pecans for your sausage and add fresh greens for a quick, good-for-you option with plant-based protein.

For a simple yet sweet take on dessert, try Mini Pecan Lemon Berry Tarts with a three-ingredient, pecan-based crumb as the base, topped with a light filling and fresh berries. 

To find additional seasonal recipes, nutrition information and cooking tips, and to learn more about America’s native nut, visit AmericanPecan.com.

Mini Pecan Lemon Berry Tarts

Mini Pecan Crusts:

• 2          cups pecan pieces or halves
• 1/4       cup butter, melted
• 2          tablespoons sugar

• 24        Mini Pecan Crusts
• 1/2       cup lemon curd
• 1/2       cup blueberries or raspberries
• powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

1. To make Mini Pecan Crusts: Heat oven to 350° F. Line mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In food processor, blend pecans, butter and sugar until mixture forms coarse dough.
3. Scoop about 2 teaspoons pecan mixture into each muffin tin. Use back of wooden spoon or fingers to press mixture evenly along bottom and up sides of each muffin cup.
4. Bake 12 minutes, or until crusts are golden brown. Allow crusts to cool completely before removing from pan.
5. Spoon 1 teaspoon lemon curd into each Mini Pecan Crust. Top each with one raspberry or three small blueberries. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

Sheet Pan Eggs with Pecan Breakfast “Sausage”

Pecan Breakfast Sausage:

• 1          teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2       medium onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
• 1          tablespoon coconut aminos
• 1          teaspoon sage
• 1          teaspoon thyme
• 1/4       teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4       teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8       teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1          cup raw pecan halves

Sheet Pan Eggs:

• 12        eggs, beaten
• 3/4       cup fat-free or low-fat milk
• 1 1/4    teaspoons salt
• 1/2       teaspoon pepper
• 1          cup fresh spinach, chopped
• nonstick cooking spray

1. Heat oven to 325° F.
2. To make Pecan Breakfast “Sausage”: In pan over medium heat, add olive oil, onion, coconut aminos, sage, thyme, nutmeg, garlic powder, black pepper and cayenne pepper. Cook about 4 minutes until onion is translucent.
3. In food processor, pulse onion mixture and pecans until consistency of ground beef is reached, about 8-10 pulses.
4. To make Sheet Pan Eggs: In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt and pepper until combined.
5. Add pecan “sausage” and spinach to eggs and stir. Lightly spray nonstick 12-by-17-inch sheet pan with cooking spray. Pour egg mixture onto prepared pan. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until eggs are fully cooked.

Source: American Pecan Council

(Family Features) During the warm summer months, salad makes for a refreshing lunch or convenient dinner option that can be delicious and nutritious. With a variety of salad options available, they don’t have to be boring or monotonous.

For example, greens can instantly transform into a unique meal when you add creative options like duck breast to help elevate the dish. Because it’s a red meat, duck breast provides a hearty taste, similar to steak, while being leaner and lower in saturated fat than other red meats.

In this Cherry-Glazed Duck Breast Salad, homemade cherry vinaigrette glazes duck breast and dresses baby spinach while blue cheese and slivered almonds add texture and flavor. As a bonus, you can save the duck breast skin to make cracklins for a quick snack or crunchy salad topping.

Find more salad recipes and tips for cooking with duck at mapleleaffarms.com.

Cherry-Glazed Duck Breast Salad

Recipe courtesy of Chef Ted Cizma on behalf of Maple Leaf Farms
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Cherry Vinaigrette:

• 2          cups dried cherries, divided
• 3          cups hot water
• 1/3       cup raspberry vinegar
• 1          cup extra-virgin olive oil
•             salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2          Maple Leaf Farms Boneless Duck Breasts
• 6          cups loosely packed baby spinach leaves, washed and trimmed
• 2          cups blue cheese
• 2          cups slivered almonds

1. To make Cherry Vinaigrette: In small saucepan over low heat, cover 1 cup cherries with water. Bring to simmer, cover pan and remove from heat. Let cherries soak in hot water 15-20 minutes. Strain cherries and reserve liquid.
2. In food processor or blender, puree cherries until smooth, adding reserved liquid as necessary. Add raspberry vinegar to cherry mixture. With blender or food processor on low, slowly add olive oil, reserving about 2 tablespoons. Season mixture, to taste, with salt and pepper. Set aside Cherry Vinaigrette.
3. Heat grill to medium heat. Remove skin from duck breasts. Rub with remaining olive oil and season liberally with salt and pepper. Pour some Cherry Vinaigrette into separate container to use as glaze; reserve remaining for dressing. Using pastry brush, coat duck breasts with Cherry Vinaigrette.
4. Cook duck until crisp and dark brown (about 5-6 minutes), turn over and recoat with Cherry Vinaigrette. Continue cooking until second side is crisp and brown, brushing with vinaigrette as needed, about 4 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 155 F. Remove to cutting board and let rest at least 5 minutes.
5. Place spinach in mixing bowl. Toss spinach with enough dressing to coat leaves. Add blue cheese, almonds and most of remaining dried cherries, reserving some of each for garnish. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Divide spinach mixture among four bowls.
7. Slice duck breast thinly on bias, starting at one end of each breast with knife at 45-degree angle.
8. Fan slices of duck on top of each salad. Sprinkle each salad with crumbled blue cheese, almonds and dried cherries.

Source: Maple Leaf Farms

(Family Features) Summer is all about enjoying the warm weather with family and friends, but even with the longer summer days, the season can feel short for many. That’s why it’s important to make the most of summer by maximizing your fun in the sun with some of the best memories being made while entertaining al fresco.

For a fun-filled, yet relaxing summer, it’s important to keep the essentials on-hand for easy entertaining. From bright decor to refreshing drinks and fresh ingredients, party prep ensures you save time and money, and are always ready to wine and dine your guests.

No matter the occasion, a store like ALDI can be your guide to summer entertaining with everything you need to celebrate the season, including high-quality and affordable ingredients for this summer’s must-have recipes.

A fresh and easy recipe to try this summer is Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers with Lemon-Cucumber Salsa. This entree pairs perfectly with a crisp, fruit-forward wine like Exquisite Collection Sauvignon Blanc or Trestoria Rosé from ALDI. When there’s a crowd to serve, consider mixing up a pitcher of Citrus Ginger Rosé Punch.

Find more seasonal recipe ideas to celebrate summer at ALDI.us.

Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers with Lemon-Cucumber Salsa

Recipe courtesy of Chef Alyssa, ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 

• 8          skewers
• 1          pineapple
• 2          tablespoons Carlini Vegetable Oil
• 1/2       teaspoon Stonemill Iodized Salt
• 1          teaspoon Stonemill Ground Black Pepper
• 1 3/4    pounds Never Any! Fresh Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces

Lemon-Cucumber Salsa:

• 1          lemon, supremed
• 1          cucumber, diced
• 1/2       red onion, diced
• 1          tablespoon SimplyNature Organic Wildflower Honey
• 1          teaspoon Stonemill Ground Black Pepper

1. Soak wooden skewers for 15 minutes prior to grilling.
2. Heat grill to medium-high heat.
3. Remove rind from pineapple and dice into 1-inch pieces.
4. In small bowl, combine oil, salt and pepper. Add chicken and pineapple; toss to coat.
5. Alternating chicken and pineapple, pierce onto skewers.
6. Grill skewers 8 minutes each side, or until chicken is cooked thoroughly.
7. To make Lemon-Cucumber Salsa: In medium bowl, combine lemon, cucumber, onion, honey and pepper.
8. Serve lemon-cucumber salsa over cooked chicken skewers.

Tip: Supreme citrus fruit by cutting off top and bottom of fruit then cut away peel and pith, leaving no white on outside of fruit. Slice each segment into wedges by cutting toward center of fruit along membrane.

Citrus Ginger Rosé Punch

Recipe courtesy of Chef Leigh An, ALDI Test Kitchen

• 1/2       cup minced ginger
• 1          cup Baker’s Corner Granulated Sugar
• 1          cup water
• 2          bottles (750 milliliters each) Trestoria Rosé, chilled
• 5          cans (12 ounces each) PurAqua Belle Vie Grapefruit Sparkling Water, chilled
• 2          cans (12 ounces each) PurAqua Belle Vie Lemon Sparkling Water, chilled

1. In small pot, combine ginger, sugar and water to make simple syrup. Bring to boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely in refrigerator.
2. Strain simple syrup and discard ginger.
3. In large punch bowl or pitcher, combine rosé, grapefruit sparkling water and lemon sparkling water. Add simple syrup.
4. Serve in chilled glasses.

Tip: Freeze lemon slices in ice cube trays or silicone muffin trays and add them to punch for pop of color.

Source: ALDI

(Family Features) Weekend barbecues, birthday celebrations and family reunions are in full swing, so up your grill game from basic to bold with a few ideas to leave your guests wanting more.

Step outside your comfort zone and create some “wow-worthy” dishes with big flavors with these recipes from McCormick and chef Roger Mooking from Cooking Channel’s “Man, Fire, Food.”

Get started with these ideas:

• Once ribs are grilled until tender, use a sharp knife to carefully slit skin on the back of each rib for easier bone removal.
• Make a giant cheese-stuffed burger by lining a 9-inch round cake pan with foil. Add in half of the ground beef followed by a cheese layer. Top with remaining ground beef and shake on seasoning for maximum flavor.
• Brine pork chops in the refrigerator for 8-10 hours before grilling to infuse with flavor and help make tender and juicy. Top with caramelized apples cooked in a cast-iron skillet.

Find more summer recipes and tips at GrillYourBest.com.

Smokehouse Maple-Brined Pork Chops

Servings: 4

• 1/3       cup sea salt
• 1/4       cup, plus 2 tablespoons and pinch, McCormick Grill Mates Smokehouse Maple Seasoning
• 1/2       cup packed light brown sugar, divided
• 8          cups water, divided
• 4          bone-in center-cut pork chops (3/4-inch thick, about 2 1/2-2 3/4 pounds total)
• vegetable oil
• 1          lemon, cut in half
• 3          tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2          Granny Smith apples, each peeled, cored and cut into six wedges
• 1          tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives (optional)

1. In medium saucepan, whisk salt, 1/4 cup seasoning, 1/4 cup sugar and 4 cups water. Bring to simmer, whisking constantly, until salt and sugar dissolve. Pour in remaining water and mix thoroughly. Transfer brine to large container with lid and cool to room temperature. Add pork chops to brine. Cover and refrigerate 8-10 hours.
2. Heat grill to medium-high heat.
3. Remove pork chops from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Brush lightly with oil. Season both sides of pork with 2 tablespoons seasoning.
4. Grill until bottom side of pork chops are well marked and charred, 7-9 minutes. Flip and grill 4-6 minutes, or until cooked through and internal temperature registers 145° F. Let rest under tented foil.
5. Place large cast-iron skillet on grill. Juice one lemon half into small bowl. Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice and remaining sugar to skillet and stir with heatproof spatula until mixture resembles wet sand. Cook with grill open, stirring frequently, until sugar melts and deepens to amber, about 8 minutes. Add butter and stir until melted. Once foam subsides, add apples. Close grill and cook, stirring gently to coat apples in caramel, until apples are tender-crisp, about 8 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and add remaining lemon juice and pinch of seasoning; stir gently.
6. Arrange pork chops on platter and top with apples. Zest remaining lemon half over dish. Sprinkle with chives, if desired.

Best-Ever Buffalo Rack O’ Ribs Sandwich

Servings: 4

Slaw:

• 1/4       cup mayonnaise
• 1          tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2       teaspoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, plus additional, to taste
• 1/8       teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste
• 2          cups shredded green cabbage
• 1/2       cup shredded carrot
• 1/4       cup diced celery, chopped
• 2          tablespoons fresh celery leaves
• 2          tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Ribs:

• 1          rack (about 2 pounds) baby back ribs
• 3          tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar
• 1          tablespoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• 4          tablespoons hot sauce, divided, plus additional for spreading and serving (optional)

Sandwich:

• 1          soft French loaf (12-14 inches), split
• olive oil
• Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• McCormick coarsely ground black pepper
• 1/4       small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4       cup crumbled blue cheese

1. To make slaw: In medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, lemon juice, seasoned salt and pepper. Add cabbage, carrot, celery, celery leaves and parsley; toss to combine. Sprinkle with additional seasoned salt and pepper, to taste.
2. To make ribs: Prepare grill for indirect medium heat at about 350° F.
3. Insert butter knife between membrane and bone on backside of ribs. Grab membrane with paper towel then pull to remove membrane; discard. Rub ribs on both sides with brown sugar and seasoned salt. Wrap ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place on indirect-heat side of grill. Grill ribs, turning once until meat is tender and pulling away from bone but not totally falling apart, about 1 hour, 15 minutes-1 hour, 30 minutes. Remove ribs from grill.
4. Unwrap ribs and let cool until cool enough to handle. Using sharp knife, carefully slit skin on back of ribs and remove bones, keeping slab in one piece.
5. Place boneless rib slab on direct-heat side of grill, rounded-side up, and brush top with 2 tablespoons hot sauce. Grill until underside begins to crisp, about 2 minutes. Carefully flip ribs and brush top with the remaining hot sauce. Continue to grill ribs until glossy and caramelized, about 2-3 minutes.
6. To assemble sandwich: Scoop out most of soft insides of top of French bread to make room for toppings. Brush cut sides with oil and sprinkle with seasoned salt and pepper. Grill on direct-heat side of grill until bread is toasted and grill marks appear, about 3 minutes.
7. Place ribs on bottom of loaf. Brush with additional hot sauce, if desired, and top with slaw, onions and blue cheese. Cover with top of loaf. Cut into four pieces.

Giant Bacon-Cheddar Juicy Lucy Burger

Servings: 8

• 2          tablespoons McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, divided
• 2          pounds 80 percent lean ground beef
• 8          ounces sliced medium or sharp white cheddar cheese
• 1/4       cup mayonnaise
• 1/4       cup yellow mustard
• 8          long pickle slices, plus 2 tablespoons brine
• 1          round loaf soft bread (10 inches), cut in half horizontally
• olive oil
• sea salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1          large heirloom tomato, thinly sliced
• 1          small red onion, thinly sliced
• 8          slices bacon, cooked
• 2          cups shredded iceberg lettuce

1. Line 9-inch round cake pan with aluminum foil, leaving extra foil over edges of pan. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons steak seasoning. Press half of ground beef into cake pan. Layer cheese in middle, leaving 1/2-1-inch border around sides. Sprinkle with additional 2 teaspoons seasoning. Top with remaining ground beef in even layer and press to seal in cheese. Sprinkle with remaining seasoning.
2. Lift burger from cake pan using foil. Press to flatten to about 11 inches in diameter. Refrigerate until ready to cook. (Patty can be assembled up to 2 hours in advance.)
3. In small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, mustard and pickle brine until smooth. Cover and refrigerate.
4. Remove most of soft insides from top of bread to make hollow. Reserve insides.
5. Prepare grill for indirect medium heat at about 350° F.
6. Brush grill grates with oil. Hold burger on foil bottom and flip onto indirect-heat side of grill; peel off foil. Cook until sides of burger are cooked and it feels firm when lifted with spatula, about 8-10 minutes. Using two spatulas, carefully flip burger. Close grill and cook until burger is cooked through and cheese is melted, about 5-8 minutes longer. Move to direct-heat side of grill for 1-2 minutes per side for more char.
7. Brush cut sides of bread with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill on direct-heat side of grill until bread is toasted and grill marks appear, about 3 minutes.
8. Place bottom half of bread on large cutting board. Spread with half of mustard sauce. Place burger on top and top with tomatoes, onions, pickles and bacon. Spread top of bread with remaining mustard sauce and fill with lettuce. Place top of bun on burger and cut into eight wedges.

Source:  McCormick

(Family Features) When people think of barbecues, many think of foods loaded with fat, salt and sugar, which can seem challenging if you are trying to eat healthy. However, it is possible - and easier than you think - to host a balanced cookout with nutritious options, without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Smithfield nutritionist Erin Thacker, MA, RDN, recommends these tips for hosting a backyard barbecue that will leave your guests healthy and happy:

• Stick to lean protein: fresh pork cuts such as sirloins, tenderloins, boneless loins and chops are packed with protein and contain key nutrients like vitamin B6, thiamin, phosphorus, niacin, potassium, riboflavin and zinc. Smithfield fresh pork tenderloins and boneless sirloin roasts are even certified by the American Heart Association* as heart-healthy foods.
   
• Layer on fruits and veggies: grilled vegetables make for a quick and delicious side dish, and grilled fruits are a health-conscious way to end the meal on a lighter note.
   
• Lighten up: swap mayonnaise and heavy creams for Greek yogurt and vinegars, and opt for homemade dressings or sauces instead of store-bought condiments, which often have high sugar contents.

Try these simple, dietitian-approved recipes for Grilled Fresh Pork and Veggies with Lemon or Sweet and Spicy Fresh Pork Mini Kebabs. For more healthy and great-tasting recipe ideas, visit Smithfield.com.

Grilled Fresh Pork and Veggies with Lemon

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1 Smithfield Fresh Pork Tenderloin, cut into four thick slices
• 2 teaspoons garlic pepper
• 1 zucchini squash, cut in half lengthwise
• 1 yellow summer squash, cut in half lengthwise
• 1 large portobello mushroom
• 1/2 large red bell pepper, cut in half lengthwise and flattened
• 1/2 large red onion, cut into slices
• 1 lemon, cut in half
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

1. Heat charcoal or gas grill to medium-high. Season fresh pork slices with garlic pepper; grill about 5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 145-160° F.
2. Brush both sides of zucchini squash, yellow squash, mushroom, pepper and onion, plus cut sides of lemon, with oil.
3. Grill vegetables for 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Add lemon to grill, cut-side down, and cook additional 2 minutes.
4. Place vegetables and lemon on cutting board; coarsely chop vegetables. Serve with fresh pork slices on top; squeeze lemon over meat.

Nutritional information per serving: 200 calories; 6 g total fat; 1 g saturated fat; 75 mg cholesterol; 75 mg sodium; 8 g total carbohydrates; 2 g dietary fiber; 4 g sugars; 30 g protein.

Sweet and Spicy Fresh Pork Mini Kebabs

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 16 kebabs

• 1 Smithfield Roasted Garlic and Cracked Black Pepper Marinated Fresh Pork Sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 pineapple, cored and cut into 16 (1-inch) cubes
• 2 red bell peppers, cut into 16 (1-inch) pieces
• 16 bamboo skewers (6 inches), soaked in water and drained
• 2/3 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Caribbean jerk seasoning

1. Heat gas or charcoal grill to medium-high.
2. Thread two pieces of fresh pork sirloin, one pineapple cube and one red pepper piece onto each skewer. Wrap exposed end of skewer with foil to discourage scorching.
3. Mix honey, vinegar and jerk seasoning together for glaze.
4. Grill kebabs approximately 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fresh pork reaches internal temperature of 145° F and then rest for 3 minutes. Generously brush kebabs with glaze during last 2-3 minutes.

Nutritional information per serving: 80 calories; 1 g total fat; 0 g saturated fat; 20 mg cholesterol; 90 mg sodium; 12 g total carbohydrates; 1 g dietary fiber; 9 g sugars; 8 g protein.

*Information and recipes not provided by the American Heart Association unless expressly stated.

Source:  Smithfield

(Family Features) Summer and cherries seem to go hand-in-hand, and using fresh fruits can help boost seasonal food and drink recipes.

Whether you use them as a snack, as a special ingredient in recipes or to inspire new dishes, Northwest-grown sweet cherries are one delightful way to celebrate the summer season.

Many grocery store shelves are full of these sweet, seasonal treats. Ripened on the tree and generally harvested, packed and ready for sale within just one day, it can be difficult to find a fresher summer fruit.

Cherry recipes can be enjoyed outside the summer months, too – simply rinse, pack and freeze an extra bag or two of cherries to harness the sweet flavor and health benefits in your appetizers, desserts and sweet or savory sauces throughout the year.

Impress your guests this summer with this ice-cold Cherry Lavender Spritzer. Or try Roasted Cherry Sauce for an accompaniment to your favorite barbecued meat, as an ice cream topper or paired with a cheese plate; it’s one way to have everyone asking for more.

Find more recipes and cherry tips at nwcherries.com.

Cherry Lavender Spritzer

Servings: 6

• 4          cups pitted and halved Northwest sweet cherries
• 2          cups water
• 3          tablespoons lavender
• 2          tablespoons sugar
• 6          Northwest sweet cherries with stems
• 6          sprigs lavender blossoms

1. In small saucepan, combine cherries, water, lavender and sugar. Heat mixture until it begins to boil. Remove from heat and allow mixture to cool completely. Strain and reserve liquid. 
2. For each drink, combine 4 ounces cherry-lavender mixture and 4 ounces crushed ice in tall 12-ounce cocktail glass; top each with club soda. Garnish each drink with one cherry with stem and one sprig lavender blossoms.

Variation: To make alcoholic version, shake or stir strained cherry-lavender mixture and ice with 9 ounces vodka. Strain into 8-ounce martini glasses, top each with club soda and garnish each with one cherry with stem and one sprig lavender blossoms.

Roasted Cherry Sauce

Makes: 1 cup

• 2          cups pitted Northwest sweet cherries
• 2/3       cup sugar
• 2          teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/8       teaspoon salt
• 1/8       teaspoon black pepper

1. Heat oven to 400° F. On foil-lined baking sheet, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, salt and black pepper; toss to mix.
2. Place in oven and roast until cherries start to release juices and become soft, about 10 minutes. Cool before serving.

Source: Northwest Cherry Growers

When it's summertime, you crave for something cold and fruity.  Combine frozen strawberries with frozen pink lemonade concentrate and you have a recipe for deliciousness.  This fizzy summertime strawberry treat will delight your tastebuds and keep you quenched while basking in the sun.  

Find more drink recipes at culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Strawberry Spritzer

• 1 package (10 oz) frozen sliced strawberries, sweetened and thawed
• 2 liters lemon-lime soda, chilled (may substitute for ginger ale)
• 1 can (12oz) frozen pink lemonade concentrate, thawed

1. Pour strawberries in a blender and process until blended thoroughly. 
2. Pour strawberries into a large pitcher; stir in soda and pink lemonade.
3. Serve immediately.

Recipe adapted from Taste of Home.

(Family Features) When it comes to planning brunch, there really are no rules. It’s the perfect opportunity to combine your favorite flavors and foods in one delicious meal.

Warmer weather calls for putting a summer twist on brunch classics. Breakfast Tacos Al Pastor are a fresh, flavorful addition to a festive summer brunch, while this Brunch Bruschetta Bar is a gorgeous way to feed a crowd and highlight your favorite summertime ingredients. These recipes are made and served with not-from-concentrate Florida’s Natural Brand Orange Juice, made entirely from oranges grown, picked and squeezed in Florida, with no water or sugar added.

Both recipes are from the Florida’s Natural Brunch Club, a collection of brunch experts creating recipes to celebrate brunch throughout the year. Brighten up your brunch with more fresh takes on classic recipes at floridasnatural.com.

Breakfast Tacos Al Pastor

Recipe courtesy of Half Baked Harvest
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 1          pound ground chicken or pork
• 1/2       sweet onion, chopped
• 2          cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 2          teaspoons chili powder
• 1          teaspoon paprika
• 1          teaspoon, plus pinch, kosher salt, divided
• 2          chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped
• 1/2       cup not-from-concentrate Florida's Natural Brand Orange Juice
• 1/4       cup water
• 2          cups fresh pineapple chunks, divided
• 1/4       cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4       cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1          jalapeno, seeded and chopped
• 1          lime, juice only
• 4-6       fried eggs
• 6-8       corn or flour tortillas, warmed
• sliced avocado
• feta or cheddar cheese

1. In large skillet, heat olive oil over high heat. When oil shimmers, add ground chicken and onion. Cook, stirring often and breaking up meat as it cooks, until chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, chili powder, paprika, salt, chipotle peppers, orange juice, water and 1 cup pineapple. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until sauce has thickened slightly around chicken, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro.
3. In bowl, combine remaining pineapple, basil, jalapeno, lime juice and pinch of salt.

To serve: Divide fried eggs among tortillas and top with chicken. Add pineapple-basil salsa, avocado and cheese.

Brunch Bruschetta Bar

Recipe courtesy of Half Baked Harvest
Prep time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8-12

• 1          cup basil pesto
• 1          cup sun-dried tomato spread
• 2          cups cherry tomatoes, marinated cherry tomatoes or diced tomatoes
• 6-8       soft-boiled or poached eggs
• 6-8       scrambled eggs
• 12        slices grilled or toasted bread
• olive oil, to taste
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 2-3       varieties of soft cheeses
• 2          cups fresh fruit
• 1          sliced avocado
• 2          cups sauteed veggies, such as spinach and mushrooms
• 6-8       pieces fried bacon
• 2-3       varieties of prosciutto, salami or smoked salmon
• 1          cup fruit jam
• 1          cup nut butter
• 1/2       cup honey
• 1          carton not-from-concentrate Florida's Natural Brand Orange Juice

1. On large serving board, arrange sauces and spreads. Add poached eggs, scrambled eggs and bread. Drizzle poached eggs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange cheese, fruits, veggies, meats, jams, nut butter and honey around eggs. 
2. Pour orange juice into juice glasses for sipping.

Source: Florida's Natural

Hit a home run with essential nutrients for active kids

(Family Features) With summer in full force, kids are busy with physical activities and whether it’s little league baseball games, swim team or summer camp, they’re more active than ever. Moms, nutritionists and pediatricians alike know active kids and developing bones and muscles need essential nutrients to grow strong, but The Dietary Guidelines for Americans say most Americans, including children, actually aren’t getting enough fiber, calcium, vitamin D and potassium in their diets.

Moms can keep up by making sure kids fuel their bodies with proper nutrition and stay hydrated at the same time. As a drink kids already love the taste of, milk is a great choice when moms want to serve delicious and natural, high-quality protein for kids before sending them off on summer adventures. Many are also surprised to learn that milk can help hydrate after exercise due to its natural electrolytes and fluids.

Milk plays an important role for kids’ meals and snacks, providing three of the four nutrients most Americans, including kids, aren’t getting enough of (calcium, vitamin D and potassium), and it’s the top food source of these nutrients, to boot.¹ Plus, with 8 grams of protein per every 8-ounce glass, the farm-fresh beverage is a great way to help the whole family kick start the day.

One way to hit a home run for your kids is by stepping up to the breakfast plate with delicious baseball pancakes. Served with an 8-ounce glass of milk, this breakfast is the perfect combo to help kids fuel up with protein in the morning.

Find more nutritious recipes to pair with milk at milklife.com.

Home Run Pancakes

Servings: 4

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup fat free milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• nonstick cooking spray
• 8 strips low-sodium turkey bacon (optional)
• 2-3 tablespoons raspberry or strawberry syrup (optional)

1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar and salt. Mix egg, milk and vanilla separately. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and whisk gently until just combined.
2. Heat griddle or skillet to medium heat and grease lightly with cooking spray.
3. Using 1/3-cup measuring cup for each pancake, pour batter onto pan. Cook until bubbles form and edges start to look dry then flip and cook another 30-45 seconds.
4. Cook bacon on griddle 3-4 minutes on each side, if desired, until desired crispiness is achieved.
5. Place cooked bacon next to pancakes for “baseball bats.” If desired, drizzle syrup onto pancakes to make baseball stitching.
6. Pair each serving with 8-ounce glass of milk.

Nutritional information per serving: 240 calories; 1.5 g fat; 55 mg cholesterol; 15 g protein; 40 g carbohydrates; 1 g fiber; 420 mg sodium; 454 mg calcium (45% of daily value). Nutrition figures based on using fat free milk, and include an 8-ounce glass of milk.

¹Fulgoni VL, Keast DR, Quann EE, Auestad N. Food sources of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and potassium in the U.S. The FASEB Journal. 2010;24:325.1.

Source: MilkPEP