(Family Features) Despite busy lives and full schedules, finding time for regular meals with loved ones encourages connections and conversations that can benefit mental and physical well-being. Gathering your family, friends, coworkers or neighbors at least once a week to spend time together over a meal provides opportunities to decompress and socialize.

If you’re looking for a little delicious inspiration, the American Heart Association recommends scheduling one night per week to create a recurring tradition and enjoy favorites such as breakfast for dinner. Recipes like Egg, Avocado and Black Bean Breakfast Burritos; Huevos Rancheros; and Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls from the Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best, are perfectly suited for sharing while making time to destress at the dinner table.

In fact, according to a study by “Canadian Family Physician,” regular meals at home with loved ones can reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make everyone feel connected with mealtime conversations that allow a chance to unplug and unwind.

Meals don’t have to be elaborate for a successful evening together. Despite the perceived effort involved with preparing a meal, research published in “Preventive Medicine” shows those who have frequent meals with others, particularly parents with their children, may improve social and emotional well-being.

In addition to the mental and emotional benefits of meals with loved ones, eating together can also encourage healthier choices when better-for-you recipes are on the menu. Dining as a group can provide inspiration to try heart-healthy recipes that include the wide variety of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and healthy protein sources recommended by the American Heart Association to help prevent heart disease and stroke.

To find recipe ideas, conversation starters and more tips for mealtime, visit heart.org/together.

Huevos Rancheros

Servings: 4

Salsa:

• 1 teaspoon canola oil
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1/2 cup diced poblano pepper, seeds and ribs discarded
• 1 small fresh jalapeno pepper, seeds and ribs discarded, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Huevos Rancheros:

• 1 teaspoon canola oil
• 4 large eggs
• 4 corn tortillas (6 inches), warm
• 1 can (15 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup shredded low-fat Mexican cheese blend
• 1 small avocado, quartered and sliced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 medium lime, cut into four wedges (optional)

1. To make salsa: In medium saucepan over medium heat, heat oil, swirling to coat bottom. Cook onion 2 minutes, or until almost soft, stirring frequently. Cook poblano and jalapeno peppers 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in garlic. Cook 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes, water and salt. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover to keep warm.
2. To make huevos rancheros: In medium nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat oil, swirling to coat bottom. Cook eggs 3-4 minutes, or until whites are set and edges are fully cooked.
3. Place one tortilla on each plate. Top each tortilla with beans and one egg, being careful not to break yolk. Gently top each egg with warm salsa, cheese and avocado slices.
4. Sprinkle each serving with cilantro and serve with lime wedge, if desired.

Egg, Avocado and Black Bean Breakfast Burritos

Servings: 4

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 1/3 cups liquid egg whites
• 1 can (15 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained
• 4 whole-wheat tortillas (6 inches, lowest sodium available)
• 2 medium avocados, sliced
• 1/4 cup hot sauce or salsa (lowest sodium available, optional)

1. Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over medium heat.
2. In skillet, stir egg whites constantly with rubber spatula to scramble. Cook until eggs are almost set. Add beans, stirring until combined and heated through.
3. Microwave tortillas on high 45 seconds. Transfer to work surface.
4. Spread egg mixture in center of each tortilla. Top with the avocado and hot sauce, if desired.
5. For each burrito, fold two sides of tortilla toward center. Starting from closest unfolded side, roll burrito toward remaining unfolded side to enclose filling. Transfer with seam side down to plates.

Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls

Servings: 4

• 1/4 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 1 cup no-salt-added frozen corn, thawed
• 1/2 medium avocado, pitted and diced
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• nonstick cooking spray
• 4 large eggs
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• red hot-pepper sauce, to taste (optional)

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat.
2. Spoon quinoa into four bowls. Top each with tomatoes, corn, avocado, green onions and cilantro, if desired.
3. Lightly spray large skillet over medium-high heat with nonstick cooking spray. Crack eggs into skillet. Sprinkle eggs with salt and pepper. Cook, uncovered, 3-4 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks are still runny. Using spatula, carefully transfer one egg sunny side up into each bowl. Sprinkle with hot sauce, if desired.

Source: American Heart Association

(Family Features) Sharing a delicious, home-cooked meal with loved ones is something to look forward to and preparing such a meal can be easier than you think. Simple touches that add some flair make all the difference. For example, adding grapes as a signature ingredient adds a unique color and flavor accent that turns everyday meals into something special.

As a highly versatile addition to appetizers, snacks, main courses, sides and desserts, Grapes from California are an essential ingredient to keep on hand. In this Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with Grapes, Carrots and Parsnips, the grapes – thanks to their delicate sweetness and juicy texture – enhance the savory chicken and earthy vegetables and bring all the flavors together for a delicious meal.

Visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com to find more sweet recipes fit for family gatherings.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with Grapes, Carrots and Parsnips

Servings: 4

•             Nonstick cooking spray (optional)
• 2          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 1/2    teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 1/4    teaspoons turmeric
• 1/2       teaspoon sea salt
• 2          large garlic cloves, minced
• 4          bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed and visible fat trimmed
• 2          medium onions, sliced 1/3-inch thick
• 3          carrots, peeled and cut in 2-by-1/2-inch sticks
• 2          medium parsnips, peeled and cut in 2-by-1/2-inch sticks
• freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 1/4    cups red Grapes from California

1. Heat oven to 400 F with rack in center. Line shallow baking sheet (10-by-15 inches or 11-by-17 inches) with parchment paper or foil. If using foil, spray with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In large bowl, stir oil, cumin, turmeric, salt and garlic. Add chicken, turning to coat, then transfer smooth side up to baking sheet. Add onions, carrots and parsnips to bowl and toss in remaining spiced oil then distribute around chicken on baking sheet. Season with freshly ground pepper, to taste.
3. Roast chicken and vegetables 25 minutes. Sprinkle grapes over vegetables and roast about 5 minutes until juices run clear when chicken is pierced with tip of small, sharp knife.
4. Note: For softer roasted grapes, add to pan earlier.
5. Nutritional information per serving: 410 calories; 31 g protein; 34 g carbohydrates; 17 g fat (37% calories from fat); 3.5 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 155 mg cholesterol; 470 mg sodium; 6 g fiber.

Source: California Table Grape Commission

(Family Features) For home chefs looking to take their cooking skills to the next level, it all starts with a little inspiration and a few new skills. Turn family meals into extravagant adventures, take backyard barbecues to new heights and impress friends and neighbors with pitmaster-worthy recipes.

In fact, it can be as easy as turning on the TV. From beef ribs and barbacoa to curried brisket rice and pho rub beef belly spring rolls, viewers are in for a treat by tuning into season 3 of “BBQuest: Beyond the Pit,” a video series that dives into the long-held traditions, new flavors and everyday inspiration that make Texas barbecue legendary.

The show follows four themes that capture the essence of Texas barbecue: legacy and tradition; creativity and innovation; Texas trailblazers; and family and community.

You can bring barbecue flavors home and cook like a pitmaster with dishes recreated from the series and developed by “Hardcore Carnivore” cookbook author Jess Pryles, including Smoked Chuck Beef Ribs, Grilled Jalapeno Cheddar Meatballs and Szechuan Skirt Steak with Crispy Rice.

“Since launching BBQuest four years ago, it’s truly remarkable to see how much has changed and yet stayed the same when it comes to Texas barbecue, and that’s exactly what you see in season 3,” said Rachel Chou, Texas Beef Council’s director of consumer marketing. “There has been so much exciting innovation around cooking methods and international flavors while there’s still a huge dedication to long-held recipes and smoking techniques.”

Learn more about the show and find inspiration to bring the taste of barbecue to your kitchen at BeefLovingTexans.com.

Smoked Chuck Beef Ribs

Recipe courtesy of Jess Pryles on behalf of Beef Loving Texans
Cook time: 10 hours, 30 minutes
Servings: 8

• 1 slab beef chuck short ribs (about 4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons coarse black pepper
• 1/4 cup cider vinegar
• 1 cup water

1. Preheat smoker or pellet grill to 275 F.
2. Pat ribs dry with paper towel; remove moisture on surface.
3. Combine salt and pepper. Rub beef ribs well on all sides and ends with seasoning, coating generously.
4. Place ribs in smoker and close lid. Cook 5-6 hours.
5. In spray bottle, combine cider vinegar and water. Lightly spritz ribs every 30 minutes for first 4 hours of cooking.
6. Ribs are ready when completely probe tender. If parts still feel tough, continue cooking.
7. Once completely tender, remove ribs from smoker then wrap tightly in butcher's paper and place in small cooler to rest 30 minutes.
8. To serve, slice ribs between bones.

Grilled Jalapeno Cheddar Meatballs

Recipe courtesy of Jess Pryles on behalf of Beef Loving Texans
Cook time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Servings: 15

• 1/2 cup tortilla chips, crushed
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 3 fresh jalapenos, seeded and finely diced
• 1 block (8 ounces) cheddar cheese, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

1. Place crushed tortilla chips in large bowl. Add milk and allow chips to soften about 10 minutes.
2. After milk is absorbed, add beef, jalapenos, cheese, paprika, garlic and salt. Mix well to combine then scoop approximately 1/3-1/2 cup of mixture to form meatball; repeat with remaining mixture.
3. Place meatballs on plate or tray and refrigerate 30 minutes to firm.
4. Heat grill to medium for two zone cooking.
5. Place meatballs on indirect heat side of grill away from coals or lit burner; close lid. Grill 25-35 minutes, or until meatballs reach 165 F internal temperature on meat thermometer.
6. Remove meatballs from grill and cool slightly before serving.

Szechuan Skirt Steak with Crispy Rice

Recipe courtesy of Jess Pryles on behalf of Beef Loving Texans
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

• 2 teaspoons Szechuan peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon five spice powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 skirt steak or bavette steak (about 1 pound)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, divided
• 2 teaspoons milk or cream
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• sesame seeds (optional)
• scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
• cucumber, sliced (optional)
• cilantro leaves (optional)

1. In skillet over low heat, toast peppercorns until fragrant, swirling in pan to keep from burning, about 2 minutes. Allow peppercorns to cool slightly then add to spice grinder or mortar and pestle with five spice and salt. Crush until fine powder forms.
2. Pat skirt steak with paper towel to remove moisture then season well with Szechuan salt on both sides.
3. Place skillet over high heat then add 1 tablespoon oil. When skillet is hot, add skirt steak and cook 5 minutes per side for medium-rare or medium doneness (135-150 F), turning occasionally. Remove steak from skillet then tent with foil to rest 3 minutes. Temperature will rise about 10-15 F to reach 145 F for medium-rare; 160 F for medium.
4. Lower heat to medium-high then add remaining oil and milk or cream. Add rice, pressing down gently with large spoon to form large, flat disc covering entire base of pan. Season with Szechuan salt, if desired, then lower heat to medium and cook 10 minutes until grains begin to turn brown and become crisp on bottom. Break up rice in pan to mix soft and crispy grains.
5. Slice skirt steak across grain.
6. To serve, place rice in two bowls. Layer with sliced skirt steak. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions then place cucumber and cilantro on top, if desired.

Source: Beef Loving Texans

(Family Features) Quick and easy yet delicious meals make time spent in the kitchen effective and enjoyable. Next time you’re in a time crunch for lunch or a simple dinner at home, lean on recipes that require five ingredients or less and can be ready in a snap.

These Creamy Chicken Risotto and Chile Verde recipes are perfect in a pinch to satisfy hunger without requiring complicated prep or cooking steps. Just heat rice and add ingredients like cheese and seasonings for flavorful meals you can cook in mere minutes.

With a main ingredient like Minute Chicken & Herb Seasoned Rice Cups, you can have the base of your recipe ready in only 1 minute. Featuring a new and improved recipe, the cups offer a homestyle taste with carrots, onion and garlic, making them a perfect addition to salads, soup or as an easy side.

Find more fast, flavorful meal ideas at MinuteRice.com.

Watch videos to see how to make these recipes!

Creamy Chicken Risotto

• 1          Minute Chicken & Herb Seasoned Rice Cup
• 2          tablespoons heavy cream
• 1          tablespoon shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2          teaspoons chopped basil
• 1          pinch garlic powder

1. Microwave rice according to package instructions.
2. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil and garlic powder; mix to combine.

Chile Verde

• 1          Minute Chicken & Herb Seasoned Rice Cup
• 2          teaspoons salsa verde
• 1          tablespoon shredded cheese
• 1/16     teaspoon ground cumin

1. Microwave rice according to package instructions.
2. Add salsa verde, shredded cheese and ground cumin; mix to combine.

Source: Minute Rice

(Family Features) When the back-to-school season brings jam-packed schedules full of learning and homework, every minute counts for the parents who make those school days possible. Create some extra time for special moments with the special people in your life by prioritizing easy yet delicious dinners that can help refuel parents and students.

In just five minutes, you can prepare a spicy take on chicken and rice with this family favorite Buffalo and Blue Cheese Chicken recipe. Making some extra time for yourself is as simple as starting with Minute White Rice Cups packed conveniently in single-serving BPA-free cups you can finish preparing in just 1 minute.

When you’re looking for a fun way to introduce your little learner to the kitchen, try creating your own homemade Buffalo sauce for this dish by mixing hot sauce, butter, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper and garlic powder. Heat in a saucepan until the butter melts and the mixture simmers, then turn down the heat and wait for it to cool.

If your loved ones aren’t big fans of spice, turn to a tamer take on a kid-friendly classic with “Mac” and Cheese in a Cup, a creamy rice version of the familiar favorite made with milk, cheddar and cream cheese. Just because you may not have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen doesn’t have to mean suffering through boring meals – simply use the microwave to enjoy this speedy yet tasty option.

It’s easy to enjoy the buttery taste and aromatic scent of jasmine rice – regardless of how packed your schedule is – by using Minute Jasmine Rice Cups to make quick dinners a reality. This taste bud-tingling take on mac and cheese made in a microwaveable cup saves you from clean-up duty and leaves more time for homework, after-school activities, school projects and all the excitement that comes with a new school year.

To find more quick yet satisfying and delicious dinner ideas for busy school nights, visit MinuteRice.com.

Buffalo and Blue Cheese Chicken Recipe

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 cup Minute White Rice
• 1 breaded chicken tender, sliced
• 2 tablespoons Buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon crumbled blue cheese, for garnish
• 1 green onion, sliced, for garnish

1. Heat rice according to package directions.
2. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, combine chicken and sauce. Microwave on high 2-3 minutes.
3. Serve chicken over rice. Garnish with blue cheese and green onion.

"Mac" and Cheese in a Cup Recipe

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 cup Minute Jasmine Rice
• 1/3 cup 2% milk
• 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon cream cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pinch dry mustard powder (optional)

1. Heat rice according to package directions.
2. In a microwave-safe cup, stir rice, milk, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder and mustard powder, if desired.
3. Microwave on high, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted and saucy.

Tips: For extra-cheesy rice, add 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese.

Substitute garlic powder with 1/2 clove minced, fresh garlic.

Source: Minute Rice

(Family Features) After a long day in the classroom or at the office, it’s tough to top bringing the family together with a home-cooked meal. When evenings are busy with homework and activities, however, there might be little time left for complicated dishes.

Take those schedules on with a menu of delicious recipes that require 30 minutes or less so you can focus on celebrating the day’s accomplishments with loved ones. These simple yet flavorful ideas from Milk Means More call for limited instructions, less equipment and shorter ingredients lists fueled by dairy favorites that provide much-needed nutrients to recharge the entire family.

Pork Chops in Creamy Mustard-Peppercorn Sauce feature the sharp yet balanced taste of mustard and cracked black peppercorns as an easy way to dress up pork chops. When pasta night comes around, Pasta with Yogurt Sauce provides a quick, creamy Middle Eastern solution.

This Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce recipe gets its robust flavor from sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes and enhanced with luscious half-and-half. For a tasty twist on Taco Tuesday, you can play “beat the clock” with Roasted Chicken and Zucchini Tostadas by crisping corn tortillas under the broiler then topping them with a tangy yogurt spread, cumin-seasoned chicken, veggies and shredded cheese.

Turn your hectic weeknights into cause for celebration with more quick and easy recipe ideas at MilkMeansMore.org.

Pork Chops in Creamy Mustard-Peppercorn Sauce

Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, Culinary Dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• 3/4 cup evaporated 2% milk
• 3 tablespoons spicy brown mustard or Dijon mustard
• 3/4 teaspoon coarsely cracked black peppercorns
• 1/2 teaspoon all-purpose flour
• 4 boneless pork loin chops (1 1/4 pounds), cut 3/4-inch thick
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• cooked noodles or rice (optional)
• chopped fresh parsley (optional)

1. In bowl, whisk milk, mustard, peppercorns and flour. Set aside.
2. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides of chops with salt.
3. In large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Turn and cook 3-4 minutes, or until thermometer inserted in thickest part of chops reads 145 F. Transfer chops to serving platter. Loosely cover with foil to keep warm.
4. Add garlic to drippings in skillet. Cook 15 seconds. Stir in broth. Cook, stirring constantly, until most liquid evaporates. Stir in milk mixture and any accumulated juices from cooked pork. Cook and stir until just boiling. Immediately remove from heat and spoon sauce over chops.
5. Serve with noodles or rice, if desired. Garnish with parsley, if desired.

Pasta with Yogurt Sauce

Recipe courtesy of Enas Malik, RDN, on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• Salted water
• 8 ounces angel hair pasta
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided
• 1 small white onion, minced
• 8 ounces ground beef or lamb
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint or 1 teaspoon dried mint

1. In medium pan, bring salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions. Strain pasta and reserve about 1/2 cup water.
2. In medium saute pan over medium heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil. Add minced onions. Cook until translucent and aromatic, 2-3 minutes. Add ground meat and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until meat is browned through, 8-10 minutes. Drain fat. Transfer cooked meat to bowl and set aside.
3. In small pan over medium heat, cook yogurt, white pepper, cumin and garlic powder until mixture comes to soft boil and thickens. Remove pan from heat. Add pasta water to reach desired consistency.
4. In same saute pan used to cook meat over medium heat, add remaining vegetable oil and saute garlic until golden in color. Add mint. Remove from heat and pour over yogurt mixture.
5. Mix pasta, meat and yogurt sauce; serve.

Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, Culinary Dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• 3/4 cup half-and-half
• 1/2 teaspoon all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets (about 3/4 inch thick)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomato jar
• 1/2 cup oil-packed, slivered sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/3 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan-Reggiano cheese

1. In bowl, whisk half-and-half and flour. Set aside.
2. Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. If necessary, cut into four serving-size pieces. Sprinkle both sides of chicken with salt and pepper.
3. In large nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat sun-dried tomato oil. Cook chicken pieces 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Turn chicken. Cook 3-4 minutes, or until thermometer inserted in thickest portion of chicken reads 165 F. Transfer to serving platter. Loosely cover with foil to keep warm.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes and onions to drippings in skillet. Cook 1-2 minutes, or until onion is tender. Stir in broth. Cook, stirring constantly, until most liquid evaporates. Stir in cream mixture and any accumulated juices from cooked chicken. Cook and stir until simmering and slightly thickened. Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan-Reggiano cheese.
5. To serve, spoon sauce over chicken.

Roasted Chicken and Zucchini Tostadas

Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, Culinary Dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

• 12 street taco-size corn tortillas
• nonstick cooking spray
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or 5%)
• 3 teaspoons lime juice, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 1/2 cups shredded or chopped rotisserie-roasted chicken breast
• 1/2 cup seeded and chopped tomato
• 1/2 cup chopped zucchini
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1. Heat oven to broil.
2. Line large baking sheet or 18-by-13-by-1-inch baking pan with foil. Arrange tortillas in single layer on pan. Lightly spray tortillas with nonstick cooking spray. Broil about 5 inches from heat 4-6 minutes, or until beginning to brown on one side. Remove from broiler. Carefully turn tortillas over.
3. In medium bowl, stir yogurt, 1 teaspoon lime juice and garlic powder. Set aside. In another bowl, toss chicken, tomato, zucchini, remaining lime juice, olive oil, cumin and cayenne pepper.
4. Spread yogurt mixture on unbrowned sides of tortillas. Top with chicken mixture. Sprinkle with cheese. Broil about 5 inches from heat 2-3 minutes, or until hot and cheese melts. Serve immediately.

Photo courtesy of Jenny Struik of "Jenny with the Good Eats" (Pasta with Yogurt Sauce)

Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan

(Culinary.net) During the spring months, fish can be a popular food for at-home meals. It’s a perfect nutritious option during Lent, and it’s flaky and delicious for seafood lovers and families of all kinds throughout the year.  

This Cheesy Basil Cod has a light crust and a glistening center, which creates a delicious bite of texture. Serve it with rice and vegetables to complete a better-for-you dinner that’s packed with nutrients as well as flavor.

This recipe, rich with cheese and seafood delight, serves four but is easy to double for a larger crowd. It requires just a few kitchen utensils and bakes for less than 15 minutes for a quick meal that’s easy to clean up.

For more seafood recipes, visit Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Cheesy Baked Cod

Recipe adapted from Laurenslatest.com
Servings: 4

• 3          cod fillets (12 ounces each)
• 1/2       cup mayonnaise
• 1/2       cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
• 1          tablespoon parsley flakes
• 2          tablespoons basil leaves
• 2          cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon pepper
• rice, for serving (optional)
• steamed vegetables, for serving (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 450 F.
2. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Place fish fillets on baking sheet and set aside.
3. In small bowl, stir mayonnaise with cheese, parsley, basil, garlic, salt and pepper. Spread evenly over fillets. Bake 10-12 minutes, or until fish starts looking flaky.
4. Switch oven to broil and brown tops of fish until lightly golden. Remove from oven; cool 3-5 minutes.
5. Serve with rice and fresh steamed vegetables, if desired.

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) When meals at home get stale and boring, adding some excitement back to family dinners can be as simple as a protein swap. Despite fish being a no-go for picky eaters in some families, there’s a flavorful solution for adding it to the menu in your home.

If you’re hoping to introduce kids (or a picky spouse) to fish for an at-home shakeup, try wrapping it with a flavorful favorite. This Bacon-Wrapped Halibut recipe calls for lightly seasoned fillets wrapped with all-natural bacon served alongside your favorite grains and vegetables – an easy yet tasty way to put seafood on the table.

Sourced from American Humane Certified family farmers that raise animals 100% crate-free with no antibiotics or added hormones, the Coleman Natural bacon in this 20-minute dish contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives so you can feel good about feeding your family better. Plus, with no sugar, it’s paleo-friendly and perfect for those looking to reduce sugar intake.

To find more family-friendly recipes, visit ColemanNatural.com/Recipes.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Bacon-Wrapped Halibut

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

• 4          halibut fillets (6 ounces each), skin removed
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 8          slices Coleman Natural Bacon
• 1          tablespoon canola oil
• cooked rice or other grain (optional)
• salad or other vegetable (optional)

1. Season halibut with salt and pepper, to taste, then wrap each fillet along shorter side with two bacon slices, tucking ends underneath to hold in place.
2. In large, nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add fish and cook, turning once, until bacon is crisp, about 5 minutes on each side.
3. Serve fish with rice or salad.

Source: Coleman Natural Foods

(Family Features) Who says waking up your taste buds only happens in the morning? The novelty of breakfast for dinner can be a lively change for the whole family. And when you give them the added kick of picante sauce, you can create hearty family meals with variety.

Cooking with Pace Picante sauce adds texture and zest to a surprising number of traditionally "breakfast-y" foods. These tips and recipes will add ease, taste and fun to the table in a fast and budget-friendly way.

Breakfast for Dinner Tips

Simple Supper Solution: Spoon scrambled eggs or egg whites onto a warmed whole wheat flour tortilla. Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced turkey sausage, cheese and picante sauce. Fold the tortilla around the filling and you've got a fast and hearty dinner.

Hard-boiled Eggs Made Easy: To hard-cook eggs, place eggs in a saucepan (do not crowd) and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Drain, cover with cold water and let stand 5 minutes before peeling. This causes the egg to shrink away from the shell, making peeling a snap.

Morning Fun at Dinnertime: Invite the family to dress for dinner - in PJs, of course. Add fruit as a garnish to different foods. Use strawberries and bananas to make a friendly face next to crêpes. Cookie cutters aren't just for cookies - use them to cut an omelet or breakfast pizza into hearts, stars and other fun shapes.

Wake up to these and other recipes at pacefoods.com.

Ham Spinach Fiesta Crêpes

Makes: 8 servings (2 crêpes each)
Prep: 10 minutes
Chill: 30 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes

• 1 1/2 cups nonfat milk
• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 eggs
• 1 package (15 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
• 1 jar (16 ounces) Pace salsa con queso
• 8 slices (1 ounce each) smoked fully-cooked ham
• 1 cup Pace Picante sauce
• 4 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese (about 1 cup)

1. Place milk, flour and eggs into a blender. Cover and blend until mixture is smooth. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Stir spinach and salsa con queso in a medium bowl.
3. Pour about 3 tablespoons of batter into a hot, greased nonstick skillet or crêpe pan, swirling skillet to spread batter over bottom of skillet. Cook for 1 minute or until crêpe is golden on both sides. Remove crêpe from skillet. Repeat, making 16 crêpes in all and stacking cooked crêpes.
4. Place 1/2 slice ham onto each crêpe. Top each with 3 tablespoons of spinach mixture. Roll up crêpes around filling. Place filled crêpes seam-side down into 2 (2-quart) shallow microwave-safe baking dishes. Top with picante sauce and cheese.
5. Microwave, one dish at a time, on high for 2 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Tip: Chill time is important for this recipe, because it allows bubbles in batter to subside, which makes crêpes less likely to tear during cooking.

Tomato-Feta Frittata

Makes: 6 servings (1 wedge each)
Prep: 20 minutes
Bake: 40 minutes

• 7 eggs
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup cooked regular long-grain white rice
• 3 ounces crumbled feta cheese (about 3/4 cup)
• 2 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup)
• 1/2 cup Pace Picante sauce
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves, crushed
• 3 Italian plum tomatoes, sliced

1. Heat oven to 400°F. Heat greased, oven-safe 10-inch skillet in oven for 5 minutes.
2. Beat eggs and water in large bowl with a fork or whisk. Stir in rice, feta cheese, Cheddar cheese, picante sauce, cilantro and oregano. Pour egg mixture into skillet. Arrange tomato slices on egg mixture.
3. Bake for 40 minutes or until eggs are set. Cut frittata into 6 wedges.

Tip: You can use any type of cooked rice for this recipe. It's a great way to use up leftover rice from your take-out Chinese dinner.

Breakfast Pizza

Makes: 6 servings (1 slice each)
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Bake: 5 minutes

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped green pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped Canadian bacon
• 1 (12-inch) prepared pizza crust
• 8 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3/4 cup Pace Picante sauce
• 2 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

1. Heat oven to 400°F.
2. Heat butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add onion, pepper and bacon, and cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Place pizza crust onto a pizza pan or baking sheet. Place in oven to warm.
4. Stir eggs and black pepper into skillet. Cook and stir until eggs are set. Spoon egg mixture onto pizza crust. Top with picante sauce. Sprinkle with cheese.
5. Bake for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with cilantro. Cut pizza into 6 slices.

Fiesta Breakfast Casserole

Makes: 6 servings (about 1 1/2 cups each)
Prep: 15 minutes
Chill: 2 hours
Bake: 45 minutes

• 1/2 pound bulk pork sausage
• 12 slices Pepperidge Farm White Sandwich Bread, cut into cubes
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Pace Picante sauce
• 4 eggs
• 3/4 cup milk

1. Cook sausage in 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat until well browned, stirring often to separate meat. Pour off fat.
2. Spoon sausage into 2-quart shallow baking dish. Top with bread cubes and cheese. Beat picante sauce, eggs and milk in medium bowl with fork or whisk. Pour picante sauce mixture over bread mixture. Stir and press bread mixture into picante sauce mixture to coat. Cover and refrigerate 2 hours or overnight.
3. Heat oven to 350°F. Uncover baking dish.
4. Bake 45 minutes, or until knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Tip: Prepare dish the night before and pop into oven in the morning. It's great when you have overnight guests. Add a simple side of sliced melon and breakfast is ready!

Source: Pace Foods

(Family Features) While everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal, eating the same dishes over and over again can turn the meal that fuels the rest of your day into a lackluster one at best. From pancakes and waffles to eggs on toast, even these tried-and-true classics can wear out their welcome on your kitchen table.

Mixing up your meals – and adding in breakfast favorites such as bacon – is the perfect way to make any dish better, no matter what time of day you choose to put breakfast on the table.

Full of flavor, Farmland Hickory Smoked Bacon is hand-trimmed, slow smoked and available in several varieties, so any meal from brunch to dinner can delight your taste buds.

Switch things up with a quick and easy breakfast pizza, or put a new twist on a traditional breakfast sandwich by replacing the standard biscuit or muffin that holds it all together with a doughnut – both recipes are sure to be a hit for breakfast, lunch, brunch or dinner.

For more ideas to put breakfast-inspired meals on the table all day long, bacon lovers can visit farmlandbaconclub.com to find original videos, contests, giveaways and extreme bacon recipes.

Bacon Doughnut Breakfast Sandwich

4 sandwiches

• 4 slices Farmland Hickory Smoked Thick Cut Bacon
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 4 cups baby spinach (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 eggs
• 4 glazed doughnuts
• 4 slices real cheddar cheese

1. Fry bacon for 10 minutes, until outside is crispy and brown.
2. In large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and saute spinach until wilted. Set aside.
3. In another large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat until melted. Carefully crack eggs into skillet and fry until yolk is done.
4. Assemble sandwiches as follows: doughnut bottom, spinach, egg, slice of cheese, bacon, doughnut top.

Bacon and Egg Breakfast Pizza

Makes 1 pizza

• 1 package (16 ounces) Farmland Hickory Smoked Bacon
• 1 can (10 ounces) refrigerated pizza crust dough
• 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes with onions and peppers, partially thawed
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 4 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

1. Heat oven to 425° F.
2. Cook bacon according to package directions; drain.
3. Press crust into lightly greased 14-inch pizza pan, forming 1/2-inch rim. Bake 5 minutes.
4. Arrange potatoes, bacon and green pepper over crust. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt and pepper; pour over pizza.
5. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until golden brown and eggs are set.

Source: Farmland Foods