recipes

Meal Ideas 14 November 2022

Give Quick and Easy Meals a Fun Spin

(Family Features) Work, school, extracurricular activities, social events and more can make the winter months feel frantic and it can often seem like you’re running out of time. This seasonal time crunch makes it even more difficult to answer the age-old, mealtime question kids are always asking: “What are we having?”

To help solve that daily meal dilemma and discover family-pleasing recipes that take 35 minutes or less, the RAGÚ Meal Wheel lets the entire family take an active role in choosing what’s on the menu. Simply ask one of your kids to click the “spin” button to find delicious, quick-and-easy recipes like Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo with Fettuccine and Mini Turkey Sloppy Joes.

Both easy-to-make recipes take 35 minutes or less and feature RAGÚ sauces, which come in a variety of taste-tempting classic flavors and styles, perfect for any mealtime occasion. Created 85 years ago by an Italian mother using a family recipe she brought to the United States from Naples, Italy, the sauces are made from quality ingredients like vine-ripened tomatoes, hearty vegetables, Italian cheeses, herbs and spices, allowing home cooks to “Cook Like a Mother” and quickly create affordable, crowd-pleasing meals for their busy families.

To find more quick and mouthwatering recipes to feed your family during the chilly winter months, visit RAGU.com/meal-wheel.

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo with Fettuccine

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 jar RAGÚ Classic Alfredo Sauce
  • 1 package (12 ounces) frozen broccoli florets, thawed
  • 1 package (12 ounces) fettuccine pasta
  • grated Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
  1. In large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Cook chicken, in batches if necessary, stirring occasionally, until chicken is thoroughly cooked. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In same skillet, add sauce and broccoli; stir. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until broccoli is heated through, about 5 minutes. Stir in chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through, about 2 minutes.
  3. In separate pan, cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
  4. Serve chicken, broccoli and sauce over hot fettuccine and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

Mini Turkey Sloppy Joes

Recipe courtesy of "Honey and Birch" on behalf of RAGÚ
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

  • 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup finely diced carrots
  • 1 medium green pepper, diced
  • 1 medium red pepper, diced
  • 1 jar RAGÚ Simply Chunky Marinara Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 mini buns
  1. In large skillet over medium heat, heat extra-virgin olive oil. When hot, add onion and garlic; sauté until onion is translucent.
  2. Add ground turkey. Break up meat and stir frequently until browned. Add carrots, green pepper and red pepper. Cook 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Add marinara sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, salt and pepper. Stir and bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer and partially cover pan. Cook 10 minutes.
  4. Serve on mini buns.

Source: RAGÚ

Meal Ideas 20 October 2022

Serve Up Smiles with Favorite Holiday Sides

(Family Features) Turkey and ham may sit centerstage, but classic holiday sides can make the season truly special. You can bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces by dishing out those favorite recipes everyone asks for year after year.

Made with a delicious combination of rice, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup and broccoli florets, this quick and easy version of Broccoli and Cheese Rice Casserole is an ideal one-pot dish to keep the holidays simple. With three easy steps and everyday ingredients, it comes together with minimal effort for traditional casserole taste.

When it comes to feeding a crowd, it’s often best to let your oven do the work. This Brussels Sprouts and Ham Rice Gratin recipe allows you to serve up a filling favorite with little effort using pantry staples. Plus, it’s a kid-friendly way to encourage veggies at this year’s holiday meal with gooey cheese providing tempting taste bud motivation.

These seasonal classics and more are made quick and easy with an option like Success Boil-in-Bag Rice, a pre-measured, mess-free way to make fluffy, high-quality rice. It’s cooked by simply dropping a bag of rice in a pot of water or broth then boiling it for 10 minutes. BPA-free and FDA-approved, the bags are safe to use and made to withstand high temperatures.

An added bonus: If you’re aiming to achieve a particular flavor, just season the rice by cooking in water infused with herbs, spices, broth, coconut milk or other liquids like juice for sweeter recipes.

Visit SuccessRice.com to find more holiday recipe inspiration.

Brussels Sprouts and Ham Rice Gratin

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

  • 1          bag Success White Rice
  • 1/2       pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 1/3       cup diced ham
  • 1          clove garlic, minced
  • 1          tablespoon olive oil
  • 3/4       teaspoon salt, divided
  • 3/4       teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 1          cup heavy cream
  • 2          tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
  • 2          tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1          cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2       cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1/3       cup breadcrumbs
  • 2          tablespoons butter, melted
  1. Preheat oven to 450 F. Prepare rice according to package directions.
  2. In large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts, ham, garlic, olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Place on parchment paper-lined baking tray and roast 12-15 minutes, or until caramelized. Decrease oven temperature to 425 F.
  3. In large bowl, toss rice, Brussels sprouts mixture, cream, chives, Dijon mustard, remaining salt and remaining pepper. Stir in cheddar and 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese. Transfer mixture to greased, 2-quart baking dish.
  4. In small bowl, stir breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan and melted butter. Sprinkle over rice mixture.
  5. Bake 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.

Broccoli and Cheese Rice Casserole

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

  • 1          bag Success White Rice or Brown Rice
  • nonstick cooking spray
  • 1          can (10 3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 2          cups frozen broccoli florets, thawed and drained
  • 1 1/2    cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2       cup evaporated milk
  • 3          tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1          tablespoon grated onion
  • 1/2       teaspoon salt
  • 1/2       teaspoon black pepper
  1. Prepare rice according to package directions. Preheat oven to 350 F.
  2. Coat 2-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. In medium bowl, combine soup, broccoli, 1 cup cheddar cheese, evaporated milk, butter, onion, salt and pepper. Fold in rice.
  3. Pour mixture into prepared dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake 20 minutes.
Meal Ideas 08 August 2022

5 Steps to Boost Students' Immunity

(Family Features) Heading to the classroom means opening doors to opportunities for educational and social growth, but to keep students at school day after day, it’s important to keep health top of mind. When close proximity to other children exposes them to illnesses like common colds, strong immune systems can be the difference between perfect attendance and a few days of absences.

To help boost your children’s immunity, consider these tips from the experts at Healthy Family Project.

Eat Healthy Foods
Focusing on foods that are rich in antioxidants and vitamins can help boost immunity by protecting the body from free radicals that cause inflammation and damage cells. For example, vitamin C boosts the function of immune cells and foods high in fiber help keep the digestive system healthy.

Broccoli provides a good source of vitamin C, but if your kids aren’t big fans of the green veggie, turn to these Broccoli Tater Tots for an easy way to sneak some greens onto the family table. Due to their high vitamin C content, mandarins are another perfect addition to family diets. Their small size makes them easy to pack in lunches, toss in a bag or enjoy in a sweet treat like Frozen Creamsicle Yogurt Bites.

Get Plenty of Sleep
The Sleep Foundation recommends 9-11 hours of sleep each night for kids ages 6-13. Proper sleep helps regulate the body’s biological rhythms, helping people stay healthy.  

Exercise Regularly
Whether your children participate in sports or just enjoy playtime, encourage exercise to help boost the immune response, particularly during colder months when they may spend more time indoors.

Reduce Stress
Adults aren’t the only ones who experience stress. Talk to your children about anxiety, stress and mental health, as stress can leave them feeling run down while weakening the immune system, leading to less energy for fighting illnesses.

Drink Water
Hydration plays a major role in keeping immune systems functioning properly by aiding the production of white blood cells, which are important for fighting off infection.

Find more immunity-boosting recipes at HealthyFamilyProject.com.

Frozen Creamsicle Yogurt Bites

Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

  • 1 mandarin
  • vanilla Greek yogurt
  • sprinkles
  1. Place one piece of parchment paper on baking sheet that fits in freezer.
  2. Peel mandarin and separate into individual slices. Place one big scoop yogurt in small bowl.
  3. Dip each mandarin slice in yogurt, covering about half of each slice. Place individual mandarin slices on parchment paper. Add sprinkles.
  4. Freeze at least 1 hour or overnight if adding to lunchboxes.

Broccoli Tater Tots

Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

  • 2 russet potatoes, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • cold water
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
  2. In large stockpot, cover potatoes with cold water. Cover and bring to boil over high heat. Reduce to low and simmer 3 minutes. Add broccoli; don't stir. Cover and cook 4-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain.
  3. In large bowl, mix egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper and garlic powder until just combined.
  4. In food processor, pulse potatoes and broccoli 8-10 times until finely grated. Add to breadcrumb mixture and stir to combine.
  5. Use tablespoon to scoop potato mixture into 40 mounds. Shape each into oval and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Bake 10 minutes; flip and bake 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Source: Healthy Family Project

Videos 08 August 2022

Sheet Pan Hawaiian Veal Meatballs

(Family Features) While the first step to a successful family meal is finding a recipe everyone loves, a second important piece to the puzzle is creating a dish that leaves enough time for special moments together at the table. You can skip complicated prep by serving easy-to-make favorites that call for versatile ingredients and simple instructions.

These Sheet Pan Hawaiian Veal Meatballs are a perfect example of a quick yet delicious meal your loved ones can enjoy without committing an entire evening to the kitchen. With veal as a key ingredient that cooks fast and easy, it’s ideal for weeknights and meal prepping ahead of busy weeks.

Plus, it’d be a cinch to double the meatballs and freeze half of them to make prep even easier the next time your family craves the sweet and savory combination of pineapple, fresh veggies and tender veal.

To find more quick, flavorful dinner inspiration, visit Veal.org.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Sheet Pan Hawaiian Veal Meatballs

Funded by Beef Farmers and Ranchers
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Meatballs:

  • 2          pounds ground veal
  • 1/2       cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/4       cup milk
  • 3          green onions, chopped
  • 1          large egg
  • 2          teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 1/2    teaspoons ground ginger
  • 2          teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1          cup Hawaiian barbecue sauce, plus additional for serving, divided

Vegetables:

  • 1          small head broccoli, cut into florets
  • 1          small red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch slices
  • 1          small yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch slices
  • 1          small red onion, cut into 1/2-inch slices
  • 1          small pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2          tablespoons olive oil
  • kosher salt, to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2          green onions, for garnish
  • 2          teaspoons sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 6          cups cooked long-grain white rice
  1. To make meatballs: Preheat oven to 450 F and line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. In large bowl, mix veal, breadcrumbs, milk, green onions, egg, garlic powder, ginger and salt until just combined. Portion veal mixture into 2-inch balls. Place in even layer on prepared baking sheets.
  2. Bake about 15 minutes. Remove from oven.
  3. To make vegetables: Toss broccoli, bell peppers, red onion, pineapple and oil together until coated. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  4. Arrange vegetables in single layer on baking sheets with meatballs. Flip meatballs and brush with sauce. Bake until vegetables are tender and meatballs are golden-brown, or until internal temperature reaches 160 F, about 15 minutes.
  5. Drizzle with barbecue sauce. Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with rice.

Source: New York Beef Council

Main Dishes 17 January 2022

A New Way to Seafood

(Family Features) Whether you’re celebrating a weekend meal with loved ones or simply looking for a way to bring your family to the table at the same time, seafood night can make dinnertime a special treat. Next time you plan to make fish the focus of your menu, it’s possible you’ll be enjoying the benefits of aquaculture, also known as seafood farming.

Fast becoming a leading source of seafood worldwide, aquaculture is similar to typical agriculture but with fish, shellfish and seaweeds. Farmed seafood can be raised and harvested in either fresh or seawater, where natural conditions are recreated.

Today, half of all seafood Americans eat annually is farm raised and the appetite is only growing. There are many reasons for this, but one is due to overfishing and destructive practices. About 33% of wild fish stocks have reached their biological limit and aquaculture helps meet the increasing demand for seafood.

However, not all seafood you find in the grocery aisles is the same. Despite industry advances, aquaculture still faces challenges with fraud, mislabeling and questionable conditions. That’s why it’s important to look for responsible seafood products that are labeled by a trusted certification process.

For example, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council is a non-profit certification program that has created and enforced the world’s strictest and highest standards for seafood farming since 2010. Today, it is transforming the seafood industry with a new level of certification for farmed seafood. This “new way to seafood” includes:

  • Seafood that can be traced all the way from the farm to the store, ensuring the seafood you buy is what it claims to be
  • The strictest combination of requirements to protect the environment, workers and communities on the farms where seafood is raised
  • Improving farmed seafood quality and safety, so you can enjoy the flavor of recipes like One-Pan Japanese Salmon with Sweet Potato, Salmon and Shrimp Coconut Curry and Royal Salmon with Romesco Sauce and Aioli

To find more information about the certification process, visit NewWaytoSeafood.com.

Royal Salmon with Romesco Sauce and Aioli

Recipe courtesy of MOWI on behalf of the Aquaculture Stewardship Council
Servings: 2

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 Atlantic Salmon MOWI Royal portions
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
  • 1 red pepper, cut into long strips
  • 2 cups small potatoes, cooked and cut in half
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup garden peas
  • 1 tablespoon chopped tarragon

Romesco Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
  • 1/4 cup hazelnuts
  • 1 slice white bread, crust removed
  • 1 large roasted red pepper
  • 1/4 cup tomato puree
  • 1 teaspoon sherry vinegar
  • salt
  • black pepper

Aioli Sauce:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice
  • salt
  • white pepper
  • lemon wedges, for garnish
  1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
  2. Place large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 table­spoon olive oil. Season salmon portions with salt and pepper, to taste, and place skin sides down in pan. Cook 2-3 min­utes until skin is crispy. Place on sheet pan, skin sides up, and bake 6-7 minutes. Remove from oven and let rest.
  3. In same skillet, add remaining olive oil then add peppers and potatoes. Cook 6-7 minutes until peppers soften and potatoes start to caramelize.
  4. Add paprika, cayenne and peas; stir and cook 2 minutes. Add tarragon.
  5. To make romesco sauce: In clean pan, heat olive oil and gently fry garlic, nuts and bread until toasted.
  6. In blender, process red pepper, tomato puree and vinegar until smooth. Add toasted nuts and bread; process to desired consistency.
  7. To make aioli: In bowl, whisk mayonnaise, garlic, olive oil, lemon zest and juice, salt and pepper.
  8. Place several spoonfuls of aioli on plate. Top with potatoes, peppers and salmon, skin side up. Top with romesco sauce.

Salmon and Shrimp Coconut Curry

Recipe courtesy of MOWI on behalf of the Aquaculture Stewardship Council
Servings: 2

  • 2 pieces of MOWI Pure portions salmon
  • 1 cup wild rice
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 clove garlic, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1cup pumpkin or butternut squash, diced
  • 1 tablespoon lemongrass, finely chopped
  • 1 1/2tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1/4 cup tomatoes
  • 4 shrimp
  • 1 lime, quartered
  • 2-3 cilantro leaves, for garnish
  1. Cut salmon into 1/2-inch cubes. Cook rice according to package instructions.
  2. In large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic, onion and pumpkin or squash; saute 5 minutes, or until onions are translucent. Mix in lemongrass and curry paste. Cook 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
  3. Add coconut milk, fish sauce and tomatoes; mix thoroughly. Add shrimp and salmon; cook until done.
  4. Serve with rice and lime quarters. Sprinkle with cilantro.

One-Pan Japanese Salmon with Sweet Potato

Servings: 2

Marinade:

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup tamarind sauce
  • 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 sweet potato, cut into rounds
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • sea salt
  • 8 spears broccolini
  • 2 salmon fillets (4 ounces each)
  • brown rice, for serving
  1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Line tray with baking paper.
  2. To make marinade: In bowl, whisk sesame oil, tamarind sauce, Dijon mustard, sesame seeds and honey until combined.
  3. Place sweet potato on baking tray and drizzle with 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Toss to coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sea salt. Roast 25 minutes.
  4. Remove tray from oven and add broccolini. Drizzle with remaining coconut oil and sea salt. Place salmon fillets in middle of tray and drizzle with marinade. Bake 12-15 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness. Serve with brown rice.

Source: Aquaculture Stewardship Council

Meal Ideas 11 January 2022

Fresh, Healthy Family Meals

Recipes to help boost iron levels, aid plasma donation recovery

(Family Features) Chef Nate Appleman knows how important it is to serve healthy meals to your family – ones they actually want to eat. Before having his first child, he transformed his eating and exercise habits and lost 85 pounds to get on a healthier path.

Now, he’s cooking meals for his family, including 14-year-old Oliver who was diagnosed with Kawasaki Disease as a toddler – an inflammation of the blood vessels that can cause damage to coronary arteries – as a healthy lifestyle is important to help manage the disease. Since Oliver’s diagnosis, Appleman made it his personal mission to create awareness of Kawasaki Disease and for the critical need for plasma donations that many people with the disease rely on for treatment, which is why he partnered with Abbott to bring attention to the need for plasma donations.

Plasma is a powerful part of your blood that supports essential bodily functions. It’s a lifeline for thousands of people who are immune-compromised and live with a variety of chronic and complex diseases. In fact, more than 125,000 Americans rely on medication made from plasma every day, according to the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA).

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a serious shortage of plasma donors – average donations per center in the United States were down approximately 11% during the first few months of 2021 compared to the previous year, further deepening the nearly 20% decline in donations in 2020 compared to 2019, according to the PPTA.

Donating plasma is a safe and relatively easy process. Since plasma is replaced in the body within about 24 hours, it can be donated up to twice per week. With a donation that typically takes between 1-3 hours, you can make a lasting impact by providing lifesaving medicine for patients like Oliver.

It’s a good idea to fuel up with iron-rich foods before and after donating, so Appleman created these fresh, nutritious recipes he loves to serve his family: Marinated Skirt Steak, Lemon Chicken with Roasted Red Onions and Potatoes, and Cheesy Frittata with Veggies.

Learn where you can donate at bethe1donor.abbott.

Marinated Skirt Steak

Recipe courtesy of chef Nate Appleman on behalf of Abbott

Vinaigrette:

  • 1/4 cup oil
  • 1/4 cup fish sauce
  • 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons raw sugar
  • 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 lime, juice only
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 small Thai bird chile or serrano chile, chopped
  • 1/4 head finely shaved green cabbage
  • 1/4 head finely shaved purple cabbage
  • 2 carrots, thinly julienned

Skirt steak:

  • 1 1/2 pounds trimmed skirt steak
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha
  • salt, to taste
  • 3 cups cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup crushed peanuts
  • 1 lime, quartered, for garnish
  1. To make vinaigrette: In large bowl, mix oil, fish sauce, rice wine vinegar, water, sugar, cilantro, lime juice, garlic and chile. Toss cabbage and carrots in vinaigrette; refrigerate until ready to serve.
  2. To make skirt steak: Marinate steak in coconut milk, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, sriracha and salt, to taste, at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours.
  3. Heat grill to high.
  4. Grill 3-4 minutes each side until medium rare.
  5. Let rest 3 minutes.
  6. Thinly slice steaks against grain and serve with vinaigrette, rice and crushed peanuts; garnish with lime wedges.

Lemon Chicken with Roasted Red Onions and Potatoes

Recipe courtesy of chef Nate Appleman on behalf of Abbott

Lemon chicken:

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into eight pieces
  • 1 ounce minced garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground fennel seed
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt

Potatoes:

  • 2 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
  • salted water
  • oil

Cauliflower:

  • 1 head cauliflower
  • salted water
  • ice
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Roasted onions:

  • 1 red onion
  • salt
  • oil

For serving:

  • 3 ounces pitted Castelvetrano or green olives, cut into quarters
  • 5 ounces wild arugula
  • 1 lemon, quartered
  1. To make lemon chicken: Marinate chicken in mixture of minced garlic, granulated garlic, paprika, smoked paprika, fennel pollen, dried oregano, coriander and salt; let sit overnight.
  2. To make potatoes: Boil potatoes in heavily salted water until tender. Cool, peel and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks. Toss with oil to coat; reserve.
  3. To make cauliflower: Cut cauliflower into florets and blanch in salted water 1 minute; shock in ice bath. Remove from ice and dry. Toss with mayonnaise, tamari and parsley; reserve.
  4. To make roasted onions: Preheat oven to 450 F. Peel onion and slice into 1-inch rings. Toss with salt and oil; roast until slightly caramelized with texture. Chill and reserve.
  5. Preheat oven to 450 F.
  6. Bake chicken on sheet pan approximately 15 minutes. Add potatoes and cauliflower. Bake approximately 15 minutes then switch oven to broil approximately 10 minutes.
  7. Squeeze lemon over reserved onion.
  8. When chicken is crispy and reaches internal temperature of 165 F, remove from oven and add onions and olives. Plate chicken, potatoes, onions, olives and cauliflower on top of arugula and garnish with lemon.

Cheesy Frittata with Veggies

Recipe courtesy of chef Nate Appleman on behalf of Abbott

Roasted Garlic:

  • 2 heads garlic
  • olive oil
  • salt

Frittata:

  • oil
  • 2 medium leeks, sliced
  • 8 ounces blanched, chopped broccoli
  • salt, to taste
  • 9 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 ounces grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  1. To make roasted garlic: Preheat oven to 400 F.
  2. Slice 1/4 inch off entire heads of garlic and place cut sides down in 1-liter casserole dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt; cover with lid.
  3. Bake 35-45 minutes until heads of garlic are soft and light brown. Let cool then use back of knife to squeeze garlic from pods.
  4. To make frittata: Lower oven to 375 F.
  5. In saute pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook leeks until soft; add broccoli then season with salt, to taste, and remove from heat.
  6. In mixing bowl, mix roasted garlic, sauteed leeks and broccoli, eggs, parsley, Parmigiano Reggiano and cream; place in 9-inch pie dish and bake approximately 20 minutes until top of frittata is brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before cutting and serving.

Source: Abbott

Meal Ideas 22 September 2021

Better School Days Ahead with Egg-Powered Recipes

(Family Features) The school year can be full of challenges, but fueling kids for a full day of learning tops the priority list. Affordable and easy to prepare, eggs are a key ingredient for successful days in the classroom. From a wide variety of breakfast options for even the pickiest of eaters to a nearly limitless menu of lunches, eggs keep kids full and energized to conquer each school day.

As one of the only foods that naturally have vitamin D, eggs offer a nutrient critical for building strong bones. Eggs also help the body absorb nutrients like vitamin E and carotenoids that are found in plant foods, making them a perfect partner for veggies that might be a hard sell for some kids. Additionally, they’re one of the best sources of choline, which is critical for brain health and development at every age and stage.

What’s more, between learning and down time, many kids spend a lot of hours in front of electronic screens. The lutein and zeaxanthin found in egg yolks can help protect their eyes from harmful blue light.

Try these easy recipes that support eye health, brain health and nutrient absorption, and are easy to prepare ahead of time. To learn more about the nutritional benefits of eggs and find more family-friendly recipes featuring eggs, search #ProteinPrepSchool on social media or visit IncredibleEgg.org.

Broccoli and Cauliflower Cheddar Quinoa Bites

Prep time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • 10 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup tomatoes, quartered
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped cauliflower florets
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil (optional)
  1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly oil or coat 12 muffin cups with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
  2. In large bowl, crack eggs. Whisk until well combined. Stir in cheese, quinoa, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower and basil, if desired, until well combined.
  3. Use 1/4-cup measuring cup to divide mixture evenly into prepared muffin cups.
  4. Bake 16-18 minutes until eggs are set. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days or freeze up to 1 month.

Simple Egg Salad Sandwich

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8

  • 6 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
  • 8 slices rustic wheat bread
  • 4 lettuce leaves
  1. Chop eggs.
  2. In medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard, salt and pepper. Add chopped eggs, celery and green onions; mix well.
  3. Refrigerate, covered, to blend flavors.
  4. Serve on wheat bread with lettuce leaves.

Blueberry, Avocado and Banana Muffins

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 medium banana (about 1/3 cup), peeled
  • 1 large avocado (about 3/4 cup), peeled and pitted
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 cup blueberries
  1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare standard muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In bowl, whisk flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
  3. In separate bowl, mash banana and avocado together. Add applesauce, egg and milk. Stir to combine then stir into flour mixture. Fold in blueberries and divide batter into prepared muffin tins.
  4. Bake 25-30 minutes. Allow to cool completely. Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days.

Veggie and Cheese Frittata Fingers

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup zucchini, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 12 large eggs
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray 9-by-9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In skillet over medium heat, add olive oil then saute bell pepper, onion and zucchini until tender. Add garlic and spinach; cook until wilted.
  3. In bowl, beat eggs then add sauteed vegetables, cheese, salt and pepper. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
  4. Bake 25-30 minutes until fully set. Allow to cool.
  5. Cut into seven strips then down the middle to create 14 pieces.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers in airtight container up to 4 days.
  7. To freeze, place cooled frittata fingers in freezer bag and lay flat until frozen. When ready to eat, microwave 60-90 seconds, or until warmed.

Source: American Egg Board

Snacks 29 July 2021

Sweet and Savory School Day Snacks

(Family Features) As children head back to school and parents work to balance hectic schedules, it can be difficult to maintain a meal plan that doesn’t consume too much time. Make your morning meals, lunchbox packing and meal prepping easier by including time-saving hacks like easy-to-use ingredients and recipes.

Getting back into a routine can be stressful, but Cheesy Quinoa Bites offer a kid-friendly, parent-approved breakfast option that can be enjoyed at the kitchen counter, on the way to school or as a snack during the day. Try making them Sunday evening then simply reheating throughout the week for an appetizing way to encourage kiddos to eat their veggies and start the day strong.

For a snack to be enjoyed as a mid-morning treat or afternoon pick-me-up, pack these Pine Nut Strawberry Rice Bars in lunchboxes to help boost energy with a sweet-and-savory combination. Or, you can store them in the fridge and keep them at home as a reward after a long day of learning.

Ready in just 10 minutes, Success Boil-in-Bag quinoa and rice are the keys to these quick and easy recipes with a no measure, no mess process that makes cooking simple. Enjoyed by kids and adults alike, they’re made using high-quality ingredients to help you and your loved ones enjoy hassle-free school days from start to finish.

Find more back-to-school snacking solutions at SuccessRice.com .

Cheesy Quinoa Bites

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12

  • 1          bag Success Tri-Color Quinoa
  • 2          cups aged cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
  • 2          eggs
  • 3/4       cup broccoli florets, cooked and finely chopped
  • 1/3       cup orange bell pepper, finely diced
  • 3/4       teaspoon salt
  1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Grease 12 muffin cups. Cook quinoa according to package directions; let cool slightly.
  2. Stir together quinoa, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, eggs, broccoli, bell pepper and salt. Spoon mixture into prepared muffin cups. Sprinkle remaining cheese over top.
  3. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and set. Let cool slightly in pan on rack; invert onto rack and let cool completely or serve warm.

Substitution: Use finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, black olives or pickled jalapeno peppers for orange bell pepper, if desired.

Pine Nut Strawberry Rice Bars

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Yield: 36 bars

  • 1          bag Success White Rice or Brown Rice
  • nonstick cooking spray
  • 3          tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1/3       cup sugar
  • 1/4       cup strawberry jam
  • 2          eggs, beaten
  • 1          teaspoon lemon extract
  • 2 1/2    cups all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 2          teaspoons baking powder
  • 2          teaspoons ground turmeric
  • 1          teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2    cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2       cup unsalted pine nuts, chopped
  1. Prepare rice according to package directions. Coat 9-by-13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside. Preheat oven to 350 F.
  2. In bowl or electric mixer on medium speed, beat butter, sugar and strawberry jam until thoroughly combined. Add eggs and lemon extract; continue beating until well mixed.
  3. In separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, turmeric and baking soda.
  4. Add rice to flour mixture and mix thoroughly. Combine rice mixture with egg mixture. Gently fold in strawberries and nuts.
  5. Spread batter in prepared pan. Bake 25 minutes.
  6. Remove bars from oven and cool in pan. Once cool, transfer to cutting board and cut into 36 bars. Store in refrigerator.

Source: Success Rice

Meal Ideas 15 June 2021

Infuse Bright, Nutritional Flavor into Summer

(Family Features) When families fire up their grills and turn to favorite summer recipes for filling meals, nutritional considerations are often not the focus. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. This year, you can rethink traditional seasonal menus by opting for main courses – and even desserts – that offer healthier returns by incorporating ingredients like whole oranges, which provide a multitude of nutritional benefits.

Adding an ingredient like California Valencia oranges to your family’s dishes means you’re including a rich source of vitamin C (70% of the daily value) and an excellent source of folate (20% of the daily value) in your seasonal spread. As a balance of sweet and tart, the extra juicy oranges reach their peak in summer, making them perfect for warm-weather recipes, juicing or as portable snacks to take along on adventures.

Plus, their anti-inflammatory benefits help support the body, especially as outdoor activities increase in the warm weather. The potassium found in oranges also helps support cell function, healthy blood pressure levels, bone health and hydration.

When it comes to meal planning, oranges are a highly versatile fruit that can be added to both sweet and savory dishes, as well as beverages, cocktails, sauces, frozen desserts, smoothies and more. To introduce a depth of flavor and burst of nutrition to dishes, add a sprinkle of zest, segments or fresh-squeezed juice, or even grill the fruit to bring out the flavor.

Try combining them with tastes of the Mediterranean for dinner with Orange and Harissa Glazed Beef Kebabs or end your meal with a refreshing sweet treat like Orange Ice Cream the entire family can enjoy.

By introducing the sweetness of oranges to your warm-weather menu, you can infuse fresh flavor while rethinking family favorites. Visit CaliforniaCitrusGrowers.com for more information on California oranges.

Orange and Harissa Glazed Beef Kebabs

Prep time: 2 hours
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

  • 1/2       cup California Valencia orange juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2          California Valencia oranges, zested and segmented
  • 2          tablespoons harissa paste
  • 2          tablespoons honey
  • 2          tablespoons olive oil
  • 1          tablespoon fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
  • 2          garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 8          ounces beef tenderloin, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 1          green bell pepper, cut into 2-inch squares
  • 1          red onion, cut into 2-inch squares
  • 16        broccoli florets, raw
  • kosher salt, to taste
  • black pepper, to taste
  • cooked couscous
  • mandarin chutney
  1. In mixing bowl, combine orange juice and zest, harissa, honey, oil, mint and garlic; mix well.
  2. Add beef cubes and toss to coat; marinate 2 hours in refrigerator.
  3. Using long skewers, build kebabs, alternating beef, peppers, onions and broccoli on each.
  4. Heat grill to medium-high heat.
  5. Season kebabs with salt and pepper, to taste. Grill until vegetables are cooked through and beef reaches desired doneness.
  6. Serve over bed of couscous and top with mandarin chutney.

Orange Ice Cream

Prep time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

  • 2          cups California Valencia orange juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 1/2    cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2    cups heavy cream
  • 1/2       vanilla bean
  • 2          tablespoons glucose syrup or corn syrup
  • 1/4       cup non-fat dry milk powder
  • 2/3       cup granulated sugar
  • 3          egg yolks
  • 2          California Valencia oranges, zest only
  • California Valencia orange slices, for garnish
  1. Prepare ice cream making vessel or unit, such as old-fashioned churner or ice cream machine with motor.
  2. Reduce orange juice to 1 cup; ice down to chill.
  3. In saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, vanilla scraped pod and seeds, and glucose syrup until hot; remove from heat. Steep 30 minutes.
  4. In bowl, combine milk powder and sugar. Add dry mixture into hot cream mixture. Whisk to combine. Return mixture to medium heat.
  5. In separate heat-safe bowl, combine egg yolks and orange zest.
  6. In small increments, pour hot mixture over yolks and zest. Mix vigorously while pouring.
  7. Cook to 185 F.
  8. Remove from heat and pour through fine strainer. Hand-blend until smooth.
  9. Ice down immediately. Add cooled, reduced orange juice. Hand blend to combine.
  10. Spin and freeze then follow directions according to machine or vessel to make ice cream.
  11. Serve with orange slices.

Source: California Citrus Growers

Appetizers & Sides 11 June 2021

A Natural Solution for Summer Hydration

(Family Features) Fun in the summer sun can mean anything from poolside play and outdoor exercise to simply relaxing in the shade. While these activities make the season special for people of all ages, the heat also leads to the inevitable: sweat.

Electrolytes, critical for the human body to function, are lost via sweat throughout the day. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, helps keep you hydrated. However, adding 100% orange juice to your diet can help replace those lost electrolytes in addition to aiding hydration. According to a study published in the “Journal of Nutrition and Health Sciences,” drinking 100% orange juice following exercise contributes to hydration equally as well as water and sports drinks, making the beverage a viable alternative for recovery.

“Electrolytes include nutrients such as potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, scientific research director at the Florida Department of Citrus. “In fluids, these nutrients carry an electric charge, which allows muscles to contract and nerves to transmit signals, and are critical for the human body to function. Plain water contains few if any electrolytes, so you must replace lost electrolytes by consuming foods or beverages that contain these nutrients. Drinking fluids that contain both water and electrolytes, such as 100% orange juice, may help support hydration.”

In fact, 100% orange juice contains about 90% water and can contribute to overall water intake. With no added sugar, it’s an ideal way to support hydration by drinking it on its own or by adding it to recipes like this Healthy Broccoli Salad with Miso Orange Dressing or Pineapple Orange Smoothie.

Consider these major electrolytes found in orange juice:

  • Potassium: The major electrolyte within all cells, it helps balance fluid in the body with a strong relationship to sodium, the major electrolyte in the blood and outside the cells. Potassium is especially important for regulating heart rhythm and function. An 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice provides 10% of the recommended daily value for potassium.
  • Magnesium: The fourth-most abundant mineral in the body and essential in the regulation of muscle contraction, cardiac excitability, blood pressure and other vital processes. An 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice contains 6% of the recommended daily value for magnesium.
  • Calcium: Found in fortified varieties of orange juice, calcium plays an important role in muscle contraction, nerve transmission and the contraction and relaxation of the cardiovascular system. As an excellent source of calcium, an 8-ounce serving of fortified orange juice provides 30% of the recommended daily value.

Visit floridajuice.com to find more recipes that aid in summer hydration.

Healthy Broccoli Salad with Miso Orange Dressing

Servings: 1

Salad:

  • 2          heads broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 2          cups purple cabbage, chopped
  • 1/2       cup golden raisins
  • 1/2       cup slivered almonds
  • 1/2       cup chopped green onions

Miso Orange Dressing:

  • 1          cup Florida Orange Juice
  • 2          tablespoons canola oil
  • 2          tablespoons miso
  • 2          tablespoons almond butter
  • 1          shallot
  1. To make salad: In bowl, toss broccoli, cabbage, raisins, almonds and green onions.
  2. To make miso orange dressing: In food processor or blender, pulse orange juice, canola oil, miso, almond butter and shallot until smooth.
  3. Pour dressing over salad, tossing to coat. Serve immediately or chill in refrigerator.

Pineapple Orange Smoothie

Servings: 2

  • 1          cup Florida Orange Juice
  • 1/2       cup plain almond milk
  • 1          frozen banana
  • 1          cup frozen pineapple
  • 1          teaspoon turmeric
  • 1          scoop walnuts
  • 1/8       teaspoon cayenne
  • 2-3       ice cubes
  • 1          scoop plain protein powder (optional)
  1. In large blender, blend orange juice, almond milk, frozen banana, frozen pineapple, turmeric, walnuts, cayenne, ice cubes and protein powder, if desired, until smooth.
  2. Portion into two small glasses.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

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