(Family Features) A distinctive and unexpected ingredient like rice vinegar is an easy way to bring faraway flavors to your favorite summer dishes. This pantry staple adds an Asian-inspired flavor to recipes of all kinds, from marinades to high-end meals.

Explore a new way to enjoy steak this summer with a recipe for zesty, marinated beef paired with crisp broccolini and peppers to give a familiar dish a fresh makeover using flavors from another origin. Give fajitas an Asian makeover with shrimp seared in a decadent hoisin-ginger sauce or try a fresh take on a crunchy salad with this Mexican-meets-Asian layered approach that’s perfect for lunch.

Include seasonal produce like cucumbers, bell peppers and tomatoes to enhance your summer flavor fusions. Pantry staples like black beans and canned corn also offer accessible ways to make elevated summer classics.

Capture Asian flavors with ingredients like NAKANO Rice Vinegar, which has perfected its rice vinegars over eight generations to offer unique and delicious flavors perfect for making mouthwatering Asian-inspired recipes at home.

Pro Flavor-Fusion Tips

• The key to a successful stir-fry is to use high heat to quickly cook meats and vegetables in stages without overcrowding the pan. This ensures that veggies stay slightly crisp, and meats develop a delicious sear instead of steaming.

• Avocado oil has one of the highest smoke points, making it a great choice for high-heat cooking like stir-frying.

• Hoisin sauce, which you can find in the Asian section of most grocery stores, is used frequently in Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a salty, fermented soybean paste often combined with garlic, chiles and five-spice powder, which adds a sweet, umami-rich, aromatic flavor to the dish.

• Shishito peppers are slender, mild, green Japanese peppers available in the produce section of well-stocked grocery stores or Asian markets. If shishito peppers are unavailable, substitute with multicolored mini peppers.

• To accommodate those who love a lot of spice and those who prefer less spice, serve mild-to-medium-spicy foods with additional chili sauce on the side.

• Swap out heavy, high-calorie salad dressings for a splash of additional flavor with NAKANO rice vinegar.

Find more flavorful ways to put an Asian twist on your summer dishes at nakanoflavors.com.

Sizzling Shrimp Fajita Stir-Fry

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1 1/2    pounds large, raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (21-25 shrimp total)
• 2          tablespoons soy sauce, divided
• 4          teaspoons cornstarch, divided
• 1/4       cup NAKANO Roasted Garlic Rice Vinegar
• 3          tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2          teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• 3          tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1          red onion, cut into thin slivers
• 1          red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
• 1/2       pound shishito peppers, stemmed
• 6          warmed corn or flour tortillas
• 1/2       cup finely shredded red cabbage
• 1/4       cup thinly sliced green onions

1. In medium bowl, combine shrimp, 2 teaspoons soy sauce and 2 teaspoons cornstarch; let stand 5 minutes to marinate.
2. In separate bowl, whisk remaining soy sauce, remaining cornstarch, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce and ginger until blended.
3. In large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil until shimmering. Add half of shrimp; cook 1 minute on each side. Transfer to clean bowl; repeat with remaining shrimp. Wipe out skillet with paper towel.
4. In same pan, heat remaining oil until shimmering. Add red onion, bell pepper and shishito peppers. Cook, stirring, 2-4 minutes until peppers begin to blister. Add vinegar mixture; cook, stirring, 1-2 minutes, or until sauce is slightly thickened. Add shrimp to pan. Cook, tossing well until shrimp and vegetables are coated with sauce.
5. Fill tortillas with shrimp mixture, cabbage and green onions.

Spicy Steak and Broccoli

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1          beef tenderloin (1 1/2 pounds), cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1          tablespoon soy sauce
• 1          tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2       teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 3          tablespoons avocado oil, divided
• 2          cups multicolored, mini sweet peppers, cut into thin rings
• 1/4       pound broccolini, cut into 3-inch sections
• 2          large shallots, chopped
• 1/4       cup NAKANO Seasoned Rice Vinegar
• 1          tablespoon sugar
• 1          teaspoon sambal oelek (Asian-chili garlic sauce) or sriracha
• 1/4       teaspoon kosher salt
• 2          teaspoons grated fresh ginger

1. In medium bowl, combine beef, soy sauce, cornstarch, black pepper and garlic powder.
2. In large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add peppers, broccolini and shallots; cook 3 minutes, or until tender crisp. Transfer to clean bowl.
3. In same skillet over high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil until shimmering. Add half of beef in single layer. Cook undisturbed 2 minutes, or until bottoms are browned. Stir. Cook 1 minute, or until outer surfaces are no longer pink. Transfer to bowl with vegetables. Repeat with remaining oil and beef. Return beef and vegetables to skillet over medium-high heat.
4. In small bowl, combine rice vinegar, sugar, sambal oelek, salt and ginger. Add mixture to pan. Cook 2 minutes, or until sauce is slightly thickened.

Glass Jar Layered Taco Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1/2       avocado
• 1/4       teaspoon serrano pepper
• 1          tablespoon cilantro
• 2          tablespoons NAKANO Organic Seasoned Rice Vinegar
• 2          tablespoons sesame oil
• 1          teaspoon lime juice
• 1/3       teaspoon salt
• 1/2       cup corn
• 1/2       cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1/2       cup jicama, diced
• 1/2       cup black beans, rinsed
• 1/2       cup shredded green cabbage
• 1/2       cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2       cup extra-firm tofu, diced
• 1/2       cup corn chips, crushed
• 1/2       cup spinach
• 1          tablespoon queso fresco

1. In bowl, mash avocado and add serrano pepper, cilantro, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice and salt. Stir to combine.
2. Build salad in layers of corn, cabbage, jicama, black beans, cabbage, tomatoes, tofu, corn chips, spinach and queso fresco while adding drizzles of dressing between layers.

Source: NAKANO

(Family Features) If spending more time at home than usual has you reaching for snacks more often, keep some quick, flavorful options on-hand to help fuel you and your family throughout the day when hunger pangs strike.

One versatile pantry staple that can fit a variety of snack cravings: popcorn. With no artificial additives or preservatives, light and airy popcorn is naturally low in fat and calories, non-GMO and gluten free, making it a sensible option to enjoy one handful at a time or sprinkled with seasonings that satisfy your taste buds. A whole-grain food, popcorn has energy-producing carbohydrates and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied longer. Plus, it’s simple enough to make that kids can help in the kitchen by popping it themselves or adding toppings.

Whether you’re craving something sweet, salty, spicy – or nearly anything else – freshly popped popcorn can serve as the perfect base ingredient to simply mix in your favorite toppings or create more unique tastes by combining a variety of herbs and spices. For example, consider these hacks to add easy flavor:

• Pop it on the stove. Stovetop popping allows you to choose your toppings. Cover the bottom of a pot with a thin layer of oil and popcorn kernels, shake to coat, cover with a lid then turn on the heat. Once popping has slowed to 2-second intervals, remove from heat and add toppings.
• Add some sweetness. When you’re in the mood for something sweet, add a dash of salt and a pinch of sugar (or more to meet your taste) to a bowl of popcorn. Or add sugar to the pan before it’s popped, like this recipe for Sugar Corn.
• Melt some butter. For a classic taste treat, melt a little butter and pour over your bowl of popped corn.
• Satisfy multiple cravings. Pop a large pot of popcorn and divide it in half; top one half with sweeter toppings like honey, which is a key ingredient in Honey Matcha Popcorn, and the other with something savory, like nutritional yeast or dill. When hunger strikes, you’re ready, regardless of the flavor craving.
• Spice it up. Cayenne pepper and a blend of other spices can be sprinkled on popcorn to create a spicier snack like Cajun Corn.
• Add mix-ins. Add dried fruits, nuts or candies to a bowl of popcorn to make your own trail mix.
• Cheese, please. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can make your snack a bit more substantial. Mix in some dried herbs like basil and parsley to create this Popcorn Con Pesto.

For more snack ideas that deliver on both flavor and nutrition, visit popcorn.org.

Sugar Corn

Yield: 8 cups

• 1/4       cup vegetable oil, for popping
• 1/2       cup popcorn kernels
• 1          pinch white sugar, plus additional, to taste

1. In medium pan, heat oil until hot.
2. Add popcorn to pan and sprinkle sugar over it. Add more sugar, if desired, to taste.
3. Cover and shake pan continuously until popcorn is popped.

Honey Matcha Popcorn

Yield: 12 cups

• 12        cups unsalted, unbuttered popped popcorn
• 1/4       cup butter
• 1/4       cup honey
• 1          teaspoon matcha green tea powder
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1          tablespoon black sesame seeds

1. Preheat oven to 300 F.
2. Line large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place popped popcorn in large mixing bowl.
3. In small saucepan over medium heat, melt together butter, honey, matcha powder and salt, stirring until dissolved. Pour over popcorn; toss to combine. Spread onto baking sheet. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
4. Bake, stirring occasionally, 25-30 minutes, or until popcorn is dry. Let cool completely before serving.

Tip: Matcha powder can be found in the tea and coffee aisle at supermarkets.

Popcorn Con Pesto

Yield: 5 quarts

• 5          quarts popped popcorn
• 1/2       cup butter
• 1          tablespoon dried basil leaves, crushed
• 1          teaspoon dried parsley, crushed
• 1          teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/3       cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/2       cup pine nuts (optional)

1. Place popped popcorn in large bowl and keep warm.
2. In small saucepan, melt butter; add basil, parsley, garlic, Parmesan cheese and nuts, if using.
3. Stir to blend.
4. Pour over popped popcorn, stirring well.

Note: Dried thyme or oregano, or combination of ingredients, may be used in place of basil.

Cajun Corn

Yield: 2 1/2 quarts

• 1/4       cup butter, melted
• 2 1/2    quarts popped popcorn, warm
• 1          teaspoon paprika
• 1/2       teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4       teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1          teaspoon lemon pepper

1. Heat oven to 300° F.
2. In bowl, pour butter over warm popcorn.
3. In separate bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and lemon pepper; sprinkle over popcorn. Toss to mix.
4. Bake 5-10 minutes for crispy popcorn.

Source: Popcorn Board

(Family Features) If you’re juggling a new set of responsibilities right now, you’re not alone. Those busy mornings may still pose challenges even if your commute no longer exists.

Making breakfast in advance can give you a few extra minutes to move your body, center your mind or simply hit the snooze button one more time and still put a delicious, nutritious breakfast on the table. Aim to use ingredients with a mix of protein, fiber and good fats to keep you full and energized for whatever the day has in store. 

Take morning meal prep off your plate for days at a time by making a batch of No-Bake Walnut, Cocoa and Cherry Bars or Savory Walnut Egg Cups, which can be made with mostly pantry staples or frozen ingredients to help limit trips to the grocery store.

Find more make-ahead recipes for any meal of the day at walnuts.org/meal-prep. 

Savory Walnut Egg Cups

Total time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Servings: 12

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 1/2    cups old-fashioned oats
• 3/4       cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4       cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 2          tablespoons cold water
• 9          large eggs
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1          teaspoon dried oregano leaves
• 1          tablespoon stone ground Dijon mustard
• 1          cup baby spinach, coarsely chopped
• 1          small red bell pepper, diced
• 3/4       cup extra sharp shredded cheddar cheese

1. Heat oven to 350° F and generously spray 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In bowl of food processor, pulse oats until fine and flour-like. Add walnuts and pulse until blended with oat flour. Pulse in olive oil, salt and water until mixture comes together.
3. Spoon walnut-oat crust mixture evenly (about 1 1/4 tablespoons each) into each muffin cup and press into bottom and partially up sides. Bake 25 minutes until crust begins to brown. Cool on wire rack 10 minutes.
4. In large bowl, whisk eggs, garlic powder, oregano and mustard until well combined. Stir in spinach, bell pepper and cheese.
5. Fill each muffin cup evenly with egg-veggie mixture and bake 20 minutes, or until eggs are set. Cool slightly on wire rack before removing egg cups by carefully inserting sharp knife between crust and muffin pan.

No-Bake Walnut, Cocoa and Cherry Bars

Total time:15 minutes
Servings: 9

• 1/2       cup old-fashioned oats
• 1          cup (about 12) pitted medjool dates
• 1/2       cup shelled walnuts
• 1/2       cup unsweetened dried cherries
• 2          tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2       teaspoon salt

1. In large food processor bowl, combine oats, dates, walnuts, cherries, cocoa powder and salt. Process 1-2 minutes, or until mixture resembles crumbly dough.
2. Turn mixture onto wax paper and shape evenly into 1/2-inch thick rectangle.
3. Chill at least 1 hour and cut into nine bars.

Source:  California Walnuts

(Family Features) Constantly seeking out recipe-specific ingredients that may only be used once or twice can be a burden. Instead, keep your home stocked with necessities to simplify dinner prep with dishes made using common household staples.

One perfect example: pastas. These recipes for Minestrone Pasta Saute with Ricotta, Creamy One-Pot Spaghetti and Pasta in a Pinch include easily recognizable seasonings and canned goods for simple dinner solutions. Plus, they all include dairy, an irreplaceable part of a balanced diet as a source of essential nutrients.

Another way to scale back on unnecessary grocery purchases is to give yourself permission to modify. Many recipes can be tweaked for personal preferences, such as using black beans rather than kidney beans or adjusting the amount of a spice used based on your family’s tastes.

Stock your pantry and refrigerator with versatile ingredients like these:

• Canned tomatoes
• Canned beans
• Quick-cook rice
• Small whole-grain pasta
• Stock, like vegetable, chicken or beef
• Fluid milk
• Shredded cheese
• Plain Greek yogurt

For more ideas to simplify family meals, visit milkmeansmore.org.

Minestrone Pasta Saute with Ricotta

Recipe courtesy of Lori Yates of “Foxes Love Lemons” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

• 8          ounces ditalini pasta
• 1 1/2    tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3          carrots, finely diced
• 3          cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2       medium onion, chopped
• 1/2       bunch kale, thinly sliced
• 1/2       pound green beans, trimmed and halved
• 1/4       cup dry white wine
• 1/2       pound lean ground beef (optional)
• 1          can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1          jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1/2       teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4       teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1          cup Ricotta cheese
• 1/4       cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. In large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta cooking water then drain pasta.
2. In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add carrots, garlic and onion; cook 3 minutes, or until vegetables start to soften, stirring occasionally. Add kale and green beans; cook 3 minutes, or until green beans are tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.
3. Add wine to skillet; cook 2 minutes, or until most liquid has evaporated. Transfer vegetables to medium bowl. If including meat, return skillet to medium-high heat. Add ground beef; cook 6-8 minutes, or until meat is cooked through, breaking up with side of spoon. Spoon off excess fat.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add kidney beans, marinara sauce, salt, pepper, pasta, reserved pasta cooking water and cooked vegetable mixture to skillet with beef, if using. Cook 2 minutes, or until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Divide pasta between four pasta bowls or plates and top with Ricotta and Parmesan cheeses.

Pasta in a Pinch

Recipe courtesy of Jenn Fillenworth, MS, RDN, of “Jenny With the Good Eats” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

• 8          ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 2 1/2    cups water
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2       teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2       cup milk
• 2          cups mozzarella cheese, grated
• 1          can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1          can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/4       cup Parmesan cheese
• freshly chopped herbs, for garnish (optional)

1. In large microwavable bowl, place uncooked penne pasta and pour water over top to cover. With food-safe plastic wrap, cover bowl, leaving small section to vent as it cooks. Cook 3 minutes longer than package directs, approximately 13 minutes.
2. Once pasta has cooked, drain into colander then place back in bowl. Add salt, pepper, basil, garlic powder and milk; stir to combine. Begin to stir in cheese a little at a time. Microwave 1 minute. Remove from microwave and stir again.
3. Add cannellini beans and diced tomatoes; stir. Microwave 1 minute. Remove from microwave and stir. Assess if ingredients are hot and cheese is melted. If not, microwave 1-2 minutes.
4. Top with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

Creamy One-Pot Spaghetti

Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8

• 1          tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1          pound lean ground turkey or lean ground beef
• 1/2       cup chopped onion
• 2 1/2    cups reduced-sodium chicken broth or reduced-sodium beef broth
• 2          cups marinara sauce
• 1/2       teaspoon crushed fennel seeds
• 1/8       teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 8          ounces spaghetti noodles, broken into 3-4-inch pieces
• 1          package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed
• 1 1/3    cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)

1. Using saute function of pressure cooker, heat oil until hot. Add meat and onion. Cook, uncovered, about 5 minutes, or until meat is browned, stirring to break up. Press cancel.
2. Stir broth, marinara sauce, fennel seeds and cayenne pepper into meat. Stir in spaghetti, making sure noodle pieces are covered by liquid. Secure lid and set pressure release to sealing function. Select high pressure and cook 5 minutes. Press cancel.
3. Allow pressure to release naturally 2 minutes. Move pressure release to venting function to release remaining steam. Remove lid.
4. Stir spaghetti mixture. Stir in cream cheese and 1 cup cheddar cheese until melted. Ladle into bowls to serve. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan

(Family Features) Every day seems to bring a new food trend, and while it can be tempting to go all-in on the latest craze to hit the shelves, there are lots of tried-and-true foods that still deserve a place at the table. One of those is real, wholesome dairy milk.

If you’re thinking about passing over real milk in favor of one of the non-dairy milk alternatives, like oat, almond or coconut milk, it’s important to know they’re not a one-to-one swap. In fact, while they might have similar packaging, real milk and non-dairy alternatives differ in several key areas including nutrition, ingredients, added sugars and taste.

Starting with nutrition, few non-dairy alternatives can match the full nutrient package found in real milk, which naturally contains high-quality protein, calcium, phosphorus and B vitamins. Real milk is also the top food source of calcium, vitamin D and potassium in the American diet – three of the nutrients the current Dietary Guidelines say people most often lack – and it’s hard to get enough important nutrients without it, according to research published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association and The FASEB Journal.

Real milk is also simple, with a short ingredient list of just milk, vitamin A and vitamin D and no added sugar. Some non-dairy milk alternatives have 10 or more ingredients, including added sugar, salt, stabilizers and emulsifiers.

On top of being a fresh, nutritious beverage, milk plays a key role in wholesome, classic recipes to share with family and friends. From this Easy Creamy Macaroni and Cheese to a classic alfredo, real milk not only boosts nutrition, it also adds dimension, accentuates flavor and serves as a creamy base to many of your favorite dishes.

For more recipe inspiration, visit milklife.com.

Easy Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Servings: 4

• 12        ounces small pasta noodles, like elbows or shells
• 2          teaspoons olive oil
• 3          tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3          tablespoons flour
• 2 1/2    cups low-fat milk, divided
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 2          cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
• 1          glass milk (8 ounces) paired with each serving

1. Add pasta to pot of boiling, salted water; boil until tender then drain and rinse with cold water. Toss pasta with olive oil and set aside.
2. In large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Stir in flour. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk until smooth and creamy. Stir in garlic powder.
3. Stir in cheese until completely melted and fully incorporated. Add remaining milk to thin. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Stir in cooked pasta, garnish with pepper and chopped parsley, if desired, and serve with glass of real milk.

Nutritional information per serving: 660 calories; 36 g fat; 21 g saturated fat; 105 mg cholesterol; 33 g protein; 51 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 540 mg sodium; 905 mg calcium. Nutrition figures include 8-ounce glass of low-fat milk.  

Source: MilkPEP

(Family Features) Creating a nutritious family dinner doesn’t have to mean sacrificing favorite dishes. For a healthier take on a traditional ethnic meal, these Blended Tacos involve blending ground beef with mushrooms before adding your desired toppings. Find more recipes at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Blended Tacos

Recipe courtesy of the Mushroom Council
Yield: 12 tacos

• 1          teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4       teaspoon onion powder
• 1          teaspoon ground cumin
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 1/2       cup water
• 1          teaspoon vegetable oil
• 1          pound button mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1          pound 80 percent lean ground beef
• 12        crunchy taco shells, warmed
• 2          cups grated cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1          large tomatoes, diced (optional)
• 1          head iceberg lettuce, shredded (optional)

1. In small bowl, mix chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin and salt. Stir in water and set aside.
2. In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add chopped mushrooms and ground beef and cook thoroughly, about 7-10 minutes. Carefully drain excess grease, if necessary.
3. Add seasoning mixture to mushroom-meat mixture and stir to combine. Bring to simmer and cook 3-5 minutes.
4. To assemble, add about 1/4 cup mushroom-meat mixture to bottom of each taco shell. Layer shells with cheese, tomatoes and lettuce, if desired.

Source: Culinary.net

Do you know what the secret ingredient for these biscuits are?  Cottage cheese!  These biscuits are crispy-on-the-outside and moist and tender on the inside.  Slap on some butter and these warm and tasty biscuits will melt in your mouth.  For more mouthwatering recipe ideas, go to www.culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this delicious recipe!

What you’ll need:

• Flour
• Baking Powder
• Sugar
• Italian Seasoning (we used Oregano)
• Minced Onion
• Salt
• Garlic Powder
• Cottage Cheese
• Butter
• Milk
• Baking Sheet

In a large bowl add in:

Flour,

Baking powder,

Sugar,

Italian Seasoning (we used Oregano),

Salt and garlic powder,

Minced onion and whisk all the dry ingredients together.

Next, add in cottage cheese,

Melted butter and mix until crumbly.

Add in milk, mix until well combined.

On a prepared baking sheet, place dollops of batter onto the baking sheet. Bake in a pre-heated oven at 450°F for 12-15 minutes.

Slap on some of your favorite biscuit topping and enjoy! 

See full recipe below.

Herb Biscuits

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp dried minced onion
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder
• 3/4 cup cottage cheese
• 3 tbs butter
• 1/3 cup milk

1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper or nonstick foil.
2. In large bowl stir together flour, baking powder, sugar, Italian seasoning, onion, salt and garlic powder. Add in cottage cheese and butter and mix until crumbly. Add milk. Stir until combined.
3. Drop large dollops of batter onto prepared baking sheet. Bake about 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with some butter or your favorite biscuit topping.

Recipe adapted by Milk Means More.

Source: Culinary.net

Asian dishes at home

(Family Features) On busy weeknights, it can be easy to opt for Asian staples like beef and broccoli. Instead, try making your own cuisine at home with quick-cook noodles, from udon to lo mein.

“Popular takeout dishes and noodle bowls can be high in salt and unhealthy fats, but when you make it at home, you can opt for unsalted stocks and add flavor from herbs and spices,” said Dr. Wendy Bazilian, McCormick corporate dietitian. “It’s also easy to personalize with whatever fresh veggies you have in the fridge, from mushrooms to broccoli.”

For example, try Ginger Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry or Pot Sticker Noodle Stir-Fry for fool-proof crowd pleasers. Or go rogue with your own noodle creation: pick a noodle, customize with broths and sauces, flavor with herbs and spices, add lean protein like chicken or shrimp and top with your favorite fresh or sauteed vegetables.

Find more inspiration at mccormick.com/simply-asia.

Ginger Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 5

• 1/2       cup Kitchen Basics Unsalted Beef Stock
• 2          tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1          tablespoon honey
• 1          teaspoon McCormick Garlic Powder
• 1          teaspoon McCormick Ground Ginger
• 1/2       teaspoon McCormick Crushed Red Pepper
• 1          pound flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1/2       package (from 14-ounce box) Simply Asia Lo Mein Noodles
• 3          tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 1/2    cups broccoli florets
• 1          cup thinly sliced onion
• 1          tablespoon cornstarch

1. In medium bowl, mix stock, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger and red pepper until well blended. Reserve 1/3 cup of marinade. Place sliced flank steak and remaining marinade in large, re-sealable plastic bag; turn to coat well. Refrigerate 30 minutes.
2. Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain. Spread noodles on sheet pan. Set aside. 
3. In large skillet on high heat, heat 2 tablespoons oil. Remove beef from marinade. Discard remaining marinade in bag. Add beef to skillet; stir-fry 3 minutes, or until beef is no longer pink. Using tongs, remove beef from skillet. Add remaining oil, broccoli and onion; stir-fry 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. In small bowl, mix reserved marinade and cornstarch until smooth. Add to skillet; stirring constantly, bring to boil on medium heat and boil 1 minute. Return beef and noodles to skillet. Cook and stir until heated through.

Tip: Place raw flank steak in freezer 30 minutes to make it easier to slice.

Nutrition information per serving: 395 calories, 15 g total fat, 4 g saturated fat, 58 mg cholesterol, 577 mg sodium, 38 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 27 g protein.

Pot Sticker Noodle Stir-Fry

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 5

• 1/3       package (from 14-ounce box) Simply Asia Udon Noodles
• 1          tablespoon oil
• 1          tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1          pound ground pork
• 1/2       cup Kitchen Basics Unsalted Chicken Stock
• 2          tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1          teaspoon McCormick Garlic Powder
• 1/8       teaspoon McCormick Crushed Red Pepper
• 1          cup shredded green cabbage
• 2          tablespoons finely chopped green onion

1. Cook noodles as directed on package. Drain. Set aside. 
2. In large saucepan over medium heat, heat oil. Add ginger; cook and stir 30 seconds-1 minute, or until fragrant. Add ground pork; cook and stir until no longer pink. Drain fat.  
3. Stir in stock, soy sauce, garlic powder and red pepper. Bring to gentle boil. Add noodles and cabbage; cook and stir 5 minutes, or until heated through. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with green onion. 

Nutrition information per serving: 321 calories, 17 g total fat, 6 g saturated fat, 61 mg cholesterol, 480 mg sodium, 22 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 20 g protein.

Source: McCormick

(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) With people across the country observing Lent, a religious tradition observed during the 40 days before Easter, it’s time to rethink the standard family meal menu.

This nearly eight-week period typically calls for a special diet. Specifically, red meat is cut out on Fridays for some and for the entirety of Lent for others. According to Datassential, 26 percent of consumers observe lent and of those, 41 percent said they eat fish on Fridays instead of meat.

Eating two servings of seafood per week – as recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans – is one way to make a positive commitment to you and your family’s health during Lent and throughout the year. According to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, research shows eating seafood 2-3 times per week reduces the risk of death from any health-related cause. Seafood also provides unique health benefits as a lean protein and is a quality source for omega-3 fatty acids, which are healthy fats essential to human health and development.

With so many seafood options available, including Alaskan cod, snapper, salmon and more, it can be easy to incorporate this nutritious lean protein into your diet.

This simple recipe for Blackened Catfish with Quinoa and Citrus Vinaigrette can help you on your way to a more nutritious meal plan that includes consuming seafood twice per week. If you can’t find catfish or prefer to substitute, any white fish such as cod, mahimahi or flounder will work.

For more seafood recipes and Lenten meal inspiration, visit seafoodnutrition.org or follow #Seafood2xWk on social media.

Blackened Catfish with Quinoa and Citrus Vinaigrette

Recipe courtesy of chef Tim Hughes on behalf of the Seafood Nutrition Partnership
Servings: 4

Blackening Seasoning:

• 1          tablespoon salt
• 1          tablespoon pepper
• 1          tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1          tablespoon garlic powder
• 1          tablespoon thyme

Quinoa Salad:

• 1          tablespoon peanut oil
• 1          cup corn, canned and drained or frozen and thawed to room temperature
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1/2       cup edamame, shelled and thawed to room temperature
• 3          cups quinoa, cooked

Blackened Catfish:

• 1          tablespoon peanut oil
• 1          pound catfish, cut into four fillets
• 5          tablespoons Blackening Seasoning

Citrus Vinaigrette:

• 2          tablespoons lemon juice
• 1          teaspoon lemon zest
• 1          tablespoon honey
• 1/2       teaspoon thyme
• 2          tablespoons olive oil

1. To make Blackening Seasoning: Combine salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder and thyme.
2. To make Quinoa Salad: Heat and oil skillet. Add corn; salt and pepper, to taste, and saute until golden brown. Add edamame and sauteed corn to quinoa and set aside.
3. To make Blackened Catfish: Heat cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon peanut oil added. Coat both sides of catfish fillets with Blackening Seasoning. Add catfish to skillet and cook 5-6 minutes per side, or until well done.
4. To make Citrus Vinaigrette: Whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, honey and thyme. Slowly add olive oil, whisking until dressing is formed.
5. Serve Blackened Catfish on top of Quinoa Salad and drizzle with Citrus Vinaigrette.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Source: Seafood Nutrition Partnership