(Family Features) Summer days are often spent with family and friends, soaking in the sun’s rays and enjoying outdoor living with warm-weather activities. Complement this year’s summertime excitement with food that matches your enthusiasm for the season.

Your menu can start with a fruity dip and a salad before diving into steak for the main course and a kid-friendly treat to top it all off. These recipes make the most of what summer has to offer with fresh fruits and veggies, bright and refreshing greens, tender cuts of meat and frozen treats that celebrate those memorable moments together.

Find more summer recipe inspiration at Culinary.net.

Dip Up a Good Time

Whether your summer days include planning extravagant meals or your on-the-go lifestyle calls for quick and easy recipes, simple snacks can fit a wide variety of menus. Dips are a perfect solution for afternoon pick-me-ups or evening appetizers when the whole family comes together.

This Apple Guacamole can be made in mere minutes, making it an ideal shareable among loved ones, by combining mashed avocados and seasonings with chopped Granny Smith apple pieces.

Visit Culinary.net for more snack ideas.

Apple Guacamole

Recipe adapted from the Meredith Corporation
Prep time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8-10

• 3          ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1/2       cup finely chopped Vidalia onion
• 1/2       cup snipped fresh cilantro
• 1          lime, juice only
• bottled hot pepper sauce, to taste
• 1          Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and finely chopped
• kosher salt, to taste
• tortilla chips

1. In bowl, use fork to mash avocados, onion, cilantro, lime juice and hot pepper sauce to desired consistency. Stir in apple and season with salt, to taste.
2. Serve with tortilla chips.

Savor a Bite of Steak

A hearty flavor profile and perfectly prepared, high-quality meat can make a summer meal truly spectacular, especially when paired with fresh veggies in a protein-packed sandwich.

Inspired by Vietnamese tradition, this Steak Banh Mi recipe – which features tender grass-fed flat iron steak, pickled carrots, bright lettuce and crunchy cucumbers – is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next summer gathering. Take your taste buds to new heights with Silver Fern Farms natural cuts of 100% grass-fed beef from New Zealand, which is minimally processed with no added growth hormones or antibiotics. There, the animals roam and graze freely over lush green hills and pastures, resulting in lean, flavorful, nutritious meat that tastes just as nature intended.

Visit silverfernfarms.com for more inspiration.

Steak Banh Mi

Prep time: 2 hours
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

• 10        ounces Silver Fern Farms New Zealand grass-fed beef flat iron steak
• 2          teaspoons hoisin sauce
• 2          teaspoons soy sauce
• 2          teaspoons honey
• 1          teaspoon fish sauce
• 1          clove garlic, minced
• 1          teaspoon, plus 1/2 cup, rice vinegar, divided
• 1/8       teaspoon five-spice powder
• 2          tablespoons sugar
• 1          pinch salt
• 1          small carrot, cut into matchsticks
• 1          tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4       cup water
• 2          Vietnamese baguettes or dinner rolls
• 1/4       cup mayonnaise
• 4          Batavia lettuce leaves
• 1/4       cup cilantro, chopped
• 1          Persian cucumber, sliced

1. Remove steak from packaging and set aside 10 minutes. Once steak reaches room temperature, place steak in deep plate or storage container. In small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, fish sauce, garlic, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar and five-spice powder; pour over steak. Cover and marinate in fridge at least 2 hours, or overnight.
2. In small pot over medium heat, heat remaining rice vinegar, sugar and salt. Cook and stir until sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Place carrots in deep plate or storage container. Pour cooled pickling liquid over carrots. Set aside to marinate.
4. Remove steak from marinade and pat dry. Reserve marinade.
5. Heat oven to 325 F.
6. Heat heavy-bottomed pan over high heat and add oil. Once oil begins to smoke, add steak. Sear both sides, about 1 minute per side. Lower heat to medium.
7. Add reserved marinade and water to pan. Cook, covered, 3 minutes, removing lid to flip meat occasionally. Remove lid and let sauce reduce 1 minute, or until slightly thickened.
8. Transfer steak and sauce to large plate and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
9. Toast baguettes in oven 5 minutes. Let cool 5-10 minutes.
10. Slice baguettes along middle without cutting through.
11. Slice steak into thin pieces.
12. Spread mayonnaise on baguettes and add 1-2 lettuce leaves to each. Layer steak on lettuce leaves followed by cilantro, cucumbers and pickled carrots. Slice baguette into two sandwiches.

Go for Satisfying Summer Greens

Many summer meals start with a simple yet satisfying appetizer: salad. This year, make sure you set the table with a bright, delightful bowl of greens that sets the tone for an enjoyable and festive meal with loved ones.

This Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry Salad calls for an array of fruits, including a homemade blueberry dressing, paired with Fresh Express 5-Lettuce Mix for a fresh and flavorful base with pecan halves to add crunch. The salads are thoroughly washed, rinsed and gently dried then sealed in Keep-Crisp bags to maintain freshness.

Find more salad inspiration at freshexpress.com.

Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry Salad

Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Blueberry Dressing:

• 2          cups fresh blueberries
• 1/4       cup balsamic vinegar
• 2          tablespoons honey
• 1          tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2       cup olive oil
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

• 2          large apples
• 2          packages (6 ounces each) Fresh Express 5-Lettuce Mix
• 1          pint strawberries, cut in half
• 1          pint blueberries
• 1/2       cup pecan halves, toasted
• blueberry dressing

1. To make blueberry dressing: In blender, process blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice, olive oil and salt and pepper, to taste, until smooth. Set aside.
2. To prepare salad: Cut apples into 1/4-inch thick slices. Using 1-1/2-inch diameter star-shaped cutter, cut apple slices into stars.
3. Place lettuce mix in large bowl; add apples, strawberries and blueberries. Sprinkle with pecans. Before serving, drizzle each salad with blueberry dressing.

Sweet, Summery Treats

After some fun in the pool and time spent in the sun, a cooling treat is often the perfect way to cap off a summer day. Fresh fruits make those sweet eats even tastier and easier by making dessert in the morning and letting it freeze while you enjoy the warmth outdoors.

These Watermelon Berry Frozen Pops make dessert about as simple as possible by blending watermelon, blueberries, raspberries and honey before adding to ice pop molds and freezing throughout the day. With the addition of refreshing watermelon, you’re opting for a flavorful fruit that includes just 80 calories and no fat while providing an excellent source of vitamin C (25%) and higher levels of lycopene (12.7 milligrams per 2-cup serving) – an antioxidant being studied for its role in sun protection – than any other fresh fruit or vegetable.

To find more summertime snacks, meals and treats, visit watermelon.org.

Watermelon Berry Frozen Pops

Servings: 8

• 6          cups watermelon
• 1          cup blueberries, divided
• 1          cup raspberries, divided
• 3          tablespoons honey

1. In blender, blend watermelon, 1/2 cup blueberries, 1/2 cup raspberries and honey until smooth. Press through fine mesh strainer to remove pulp and seeds.
2. Fill ice pop molds 3/4 full with liquid. Add remaining whole blueberries and raspberries to molds. Insert sticks and freeze at least 4 hours, or until completely frozen.

 Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Apple Guacamole)

Source: Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Fresh Express
National Watermelon Promotion Board

(Culinary.net) If you’re looking for a dinner or lunch combination that is wholesome, filling and, of course, easy, you’re not alone. Meal prepping is a popular trend for many people (and families) who are working on healthy eating habits but are constantly on the go.

No matter if you’re searching for a healthy family dinner, a quick lunch at home or an easy idea to meal prep for the week ahead, this Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowl is perfect for seafood lovers who also enjoy a hint of spice. It’s fresh, healthy and full of deliciously prepared shrimp and veggies, including mushrooms, peppers and cucumbers.

The sauce is light and has a sweet yet spicy vibe. Everything rests over 1 cup of steamy quinoa – a filling base that also serves as an easy way to add some healthy grains to your diet.
To make this quick and easy recipe, prepare the quinoa according to the package directions and set aside.

Next, combine orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice and miso in a medium bowl and whisk together.

Pour about one-fourth of the liquid into a separate bowl and set aside the smaller portion.

In the medium bowl, add shrimp to marinate for about 15 minutes.

Add butter to a hot skillet, along with the shrimp mixture. Cook shrimp for 2 minutes on each side then add mushrooms and cook until tender.

Now it’s time to assemble your bowls. Start with quinoa then top with bell peppers, cucumbers, green onions, avocado and the perfectly pink shrimp. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and cilantro for some extra texture. Drizzle bowls with the remaining sauce.

Find more wholesome and healthy recipes at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls

Serves: 2

• 1          cup quinoa
• 1          cup orange juice
• 1          tablespoon hot sauce
• 1          tablespoon honey
• 1          tablespoon soy sauce
• 4          tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1          tablespoon lime juice
• 1          tablespoon white miso
• 1/4       cup butter
• 1 1/2    pounds shrimp, peeled, deveined and tails removed
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1/8       teaspoon pepper
• 1          cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1          red bell pepper, diced
• 1          cucumber, sliced into half moons
• 5          green onions, sliced
• 1          avocado, sliced
• 1          teaspoon sesame seeds
• 2          tablespoons cilantro, chopped

1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In medium bowl, whisk orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice and miso until combined. Pour one-quarter of liquid into separate bowl. Set aside.
3. Add shrimp to remaining mixture and marinate 15 minutes.
4. Heat large skillet over medium heat with butter. Add shrimp, salt and pepper. Cook 2 minutes on each side until pink. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
5. In two serving bowls, divide quinoa, bell pepper, cucumber, onions, avocado and shrimp. Sprinkle sesame seeds and cilantro over both bowls.
6. Drizzle with reserved dressing.

(Family Features) Taking care of your heart health requires a commitment to the right routines and smart decisions, such as adopting a heart healthy diet. Foods you might already have in your kitchen can offer powerful vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds that may help contribute to heart health.

Decades of research shows that each 8-ounce serving of 100% orange juice, such as Florida Orange Juice, is packed with key nutrients and valuable plant compounds, which may play a beneficial role in helping lower blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease. Consider these additional heart health benefits of 100% orange juice:

• While many people associate vitamin C with its ability to help promote a healthy immune system, it’s also been shown to support cardiovascular health. Orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C providing more than 100% of the recommended daily value in an 8-ounce glass.
• In several research studies, higher intakes of the flavonoids typically found in citrus were associated with reduced risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke.
• In one 8-ounce serving, 100% orange juice provides 10% of the daily value of potassium, which is an electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance affecting blood pressure. Diets containing foods that are good sources of potassium and low in sodium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.
• Some studies found folate and vitamin B6, both water-soluble vitamins, may help protect against heart disease by lowering homocysteine levels in the blood, an amino acid believed to cause damage to the arteries and increase the risk of blood clots when elevated. One 8-ounce glass of orange juice contains 15% of the daily value of folate and 8% of the daily value of vitamin B6.

“Drinking Florida Orange Juice is not only delicious, it delivers a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “From helping to reduce hypertension to fighting inflammation, it is an excellent choice to include in a heart-healthy diet.”

You can add the heart health benefits of 100% orange juice to your diet with the powerfully nutritious punch of Orange Juice Shrimp Quinoa Bowls, the perfect mixture of textures with tangy, spicy and sweet flavors. Or start the day strong with a Florida Sunshine Grapefruit Smoothie for a breakfast beverage that requires just a few minutes of prep and blending.

Find more heart healthy inspiration at floridacitrus.org.

Orange Juice Shrimp Quinoa Bowls

Servings: 2

• 2          cups water
• 1          cup quinoa
• 1          cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1          tablespoon hot sauce
• 1          tablespoon honey
• 1          tablespoon soy sauce
• 6          tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 2          tablespoons lime juice
• 1          tablespoon white miso
• 1 1/2    pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4       teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8       teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1          bell pepper, diced
• 1          English cucumber, sliced into half moons
• 3          scallions, sliced
• 1          avocado, sliced
• 1          teaspoon sesame seeds
• 2          tablespoons cilantro, chopped

1. In pot, bring water to boil.
2. Add quinoa, reduce to simmer, cover and cook 15 minutes. Fluff with fork.
3. In bowl, whisk orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, lime juice and miso. Remove half and set aside.
4. Add shrimp to remaining half and marinate 15 minutes.
5. Heat large skillet over medium-high heat and add remaining oil.
6. Season shrimp with salt and pepper then add shrimp to wok and saute, cooking approximately 2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
7. Place 1/2 cup quinoa in bowl and top with bell pepper, cucumber, scallions, avocado and shrimp.
8. Drizzle with dressing that was set aside and garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro.

Florida Sunshine Grapefruit Smoothie

Servings: 1

• 1          cup Florida Orange Juice
• 1/2       cup Florida Grapefruit Juice
• 1          ripe banana
• 1/2       cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
• 1/2       teaspoon vanilla extract

1. In blender, blend orange juice, grapefruit juice, banana, yogurt and vanilla extract until smooth. Serve immediately.

 Photo courtesy of Getty Images (smoothie)

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

(Family Features) Part of the fun of family meals is finding inspiration in the variety of dinner ideas you can create together. From a tangy twist on traditional tacos to a favorite to-go flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen, the options are nearly endless when you use versatile, ready-to-use ingredients.

When you include protein that’s prepared, seasoned and precooked, you can cut down on time in the kitchen, while adding precious seconds to spend with loved ones. For example, Chef’s Craft® Gourmet Chicken offers a line of gluten-free, preservative-free, all-natural chicken skillfully crafted by experts and perfectly suited for culinary creations. The varieties are always fresh and perfect for preparing in 30 minutes or less. They can be enjoyed on their own or in an array of family dishes.

Consider these Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos to call loved ones to the table with chunks of tender chicken piled high with homemade spicy vinegar slaw, fried onions and avocado drizzled with barbecue sauce and ranch dressing.

Or, for a taste of takeout you can make in your own home, turn to Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry. If you don’t own a wok, don’t fret – this dish can easily be made in a skillet. Just be sure to give the veggies enough room as a crowded skillet is likely to result in steamed veggies.

Find more quick, convenient family meal ideas, as well as a store locator, at chefscraftgourmet.com.

Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos

Servings: 4

Spicy Vinegar Slaw:

• 2 1/2    cups shredded purple cabbage
• 1/2       cup shredded carrot
• 2          jalapenos, thinly sliced
• 1 1/2    tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
• 2          tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1          teaspoon sugar
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper

Fried Onions:

• canola or vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2       cup all-purpose flour
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1          yellow or Vidalia onion, cut into 1/4-inch slices

• 8          taco-sized flour tortillas, warmed
• 1          package Chef’s Craft® Breaded Chicken Chunks, cooked according to package directions
• spicy vinegar slaw
• 1          avocado, chopped
• fried onions
• 1/2       cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2       cup ranch dressing
• chopped cilantro (optional)

1. To make spicy vinegar slaw: In medium mixing bowl, combine cabbage, carrot and jalapenos.
2. In separate small bowl, whisk oil, vinegar and sugar; season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Drizzle over coleslaw mix and stir to combine. Let sit at least 10 minutes before serving.
4. To make fried onions: In small skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 inch oil.
5. In small bowl, season flour well with salt and pepper. Coat onion slices in flour mixture and shake to remove excess flour.
6. Fry in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 30-45 seconds per batch. Remove to paper towel-lined plate and immediately sprinkle with salt.
7. Top each tortilla with cooked breaded chicken chunks, spicy vinegar slaw, chopped avocado, fried onions, barbecue sauce and ranch dressing. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.

Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4

Honey Soy Glaze:

• 1/2       cup chicken broth
• 1/2       cup soy sauce
• 6          tablespoons honey
• 1/2       teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2       teaspoon dried ground ginger
• 4          teaspoons cornstarch
• 3          teaspoons water

• 2          tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
• 1          large yellow onion, sliced
• 3          bell peppers, sliced
• 1          large zucchini, sliced
• 4          ounces snow peas
• 10        ounces sliced mushrooms
• 2-3       cups broccoli florets, steamed to tender crisp
• 1          package Chef’s Craft® Chicken Breast Fillets, cooked according to package directions, sliced
• sesame seeds, for garnish

1. To make honey soy glaze: In small saucepan over medium heat, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, garlic and ginger. Bring to simmer.  In small bowl, combine cornstarch and water; stir into honey soy sauce and let cook approximately 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
2. In large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onion, pepper and zucchini; cook 2-3 minutes. Add snow peas and mushrooms; cook 2 minutes until vegetables are crisp tender but maintain texture. 
3. Add broccoli and chicken to pan; stir all but 3 tablespoons sauce; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Drizzle with remaining sauce and garnish with sesame seeds.

Source: Wayne Farms

(Family Features) Committing to a daily wellness routine may include many components from eating healthy and exercising to meditating and achieving quality sleep. For some, the most difficult of these goals is changing eating habits to consume more nutritious foods.

However, rethinking the way you eat (and drink) doesn’t have to mean a colossal shift in your diet. According to Healthline, clean eating and the addition of a small amount of apple cider vinegar to your daily routine can help support healthy digestion, weight range maintenance, healthy glucose levels and a functioning immune system. In fact, some experts recommend consuming 1 ounce of apple cider vinegar each day as a shot or part of a recipe.

Consider an apple cider vinegar option from Marukan, which has brewed premium vinegars for 370 years, to create dishes from breakfast to dinner. Start your day by enjoying this Blueberry Apple Cider Vinegar Smoothie that takes just 5 minutes to make so it doesn’t throw off your morning routine.

A quick, nutritious and easy weeknight dinner is what many families strive for, and you can accomplish that feat with Apple Cider Vinegar Beef and Broccoli. Cooked broccoli florets and beef strips are combined with an apple cider vinegar and ponzu soy dressing-based sauce and served over cooked rice for a 20-minute meal your loved ones can savor together while simultaneously enhancing your nutrition.

These recipes can help you participate in the Marukan Apple Cider Vinegar 24-Day Challenge, which encourages entrants to consume 1 ounce of apple cider vinegar each day and share the benefits they experience while creating daily wellness habits on their journeys to healthier routines.

Find more information about participating in the challenge along with nutritious recipes at MarukanACV.com.

Blueberry Apple Cider Vinegar Smoothie

Total time: 5 minutes
Servings: 2

• 1          cup spinach
• 1/2       cup water
• 2          tablespoons Marukan Organic Apple Cider & Rice Vinegar Drink Blend
• 1          tablespoon almond butter
• 1/2       cup bananas, frozen
• 1/2       cup blueberries, frozen
• 1          tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/4       teaspoon cinnamon, ground
• 1/4       teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1/2       cup almond milk yogurt, plain
• fresh blueberries, for garnish

1. In blender, blend spinach, water, organic apple cider, almond butter, frozen bananas, frozen blueberries, chia seeds, cinnamon, ginger and yogurt until smooth. Pour into two glasses and garnish with fresh blueberries.

Apple Cider Vinegar Beef and Broccoli

Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1          pound broccoli florets
• 1          pound beef strips
• 1          tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1/2       cup Marukan Ponzu Premium Soy Dressing with Sudachi Citrus
• 1/2       cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1          tablespoon sesame oil
• 2          tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4       cup honey
• 3          tablespoons Marukan Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1          tablespoon cornstarch
• cooked rice
• sliced green onions, for garnish
• cilantro, for garnish
• sesame seeds, for garnish

1. In skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Cook broccoli 3 minutes until slightly softened; set aside. Add beef to pan and cook 3 minutes until browned. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. In bowl, mix ponzu soy dressing, beef broth, sesame oil, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar and cornstarch. Add sauce mixture to beef in skillet and cook 10 minutes until sauce mixture cooks down. Toss in broccoli and cook 2 minutes. Serve over rice and garnish with green onions, cilantro and sesame seeds.

Source: Marukan Apple Cider Vinegar

(Family Features) Starting fresh with a new year is a chance to hit the reset button for many people, and your family can use this opportunity to rethink homemade meals while striving for nutritious (and still delicious) dishes. From snacks to the main course each evening, the options are nearly endless for planning a revamped menu with healthier ingredients.

Dinnertime can be a cinch with Peanut Butter Chicken, a simple dish that takes less than 20 minutes to make when busy evenings call for a quick solution. If a veggie-based option aligns better with your family's desires, try Veggie Sammies with Peanut Butter Satay Sauce or go full-on comfort food with Very Vegan Peanut Butter Jackfruit Chili. Snacking doesn't have to mean forgoing your dedication to nutritious choices either - these Peanut Granola Bars can be your made-at-home masterpiece for adults and children to enjoy.

These recipes from the Georgia Peanut Commission are powered by peanuts, a nutrient-rich superfood that delivers 19 vitamins and 7 grams of protein per serving for a health benefit punch in each bite.

Discover more nutritious recipe ideas at gapeanuts.com.

Veggie Sammies with Peanut Butter Satay Sauce

Prep time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

• 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons water
• 4 teaspoons hoisin sauce
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sriracha
• 2 French baguette rolls (6 inches each)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 cup white onion, sliced into thin strips
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1/2 cup purple cabbage
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro

1. In small bowl, combine peanut butter, lime juice, water, hoisin sauce, soy sauce and sriracha; mix well.
2. Spread sauce on both sides of each roll then layer with cucumber, onion and bell pepper. Top with cabbage and cilantro.

Very Vegan Peanut Butter Jackfruit Chili

Recipe courtesy of the National Peanut Board
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8

• 2 teaspoons oil
• 1/2 large white onion, chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 1 can whole tomatoes
• 2 cups water
• 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can green jackfruit, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• cornbread (optional)
• tortilla chips (optional)
• cinnamon rolls (optional)

1. eat large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add oil, onion and peppers; cook 3 minutes, stirring often. Add garlic, salt, cumin, chili powder and tomato paste, stirring to coat. Cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, then stir in crushed tomatoes, whole tomatoes, water, kidney beans and jackfruit; bring to boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 25-30 minutes. Stir in peanut butter and simmer 5 minutes.
2. Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips or cinnamon rolls, if desired.

Peanut Granola Bars

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes, plus 30-45 minutes cooling time
Servings: 12-14

• 1/2 cup honey
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups rolled oats (quick or regular)
• 1 cup bran flakes
• 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
• 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, blueberries or cranberries)
• 1 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

1. In large, shallow, microwavable dish, combine honey, butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla and salt. Microwave at 50% power 2 minutes then whisk to combine and microwave at 50% power 2 minutes.
2. Add oats, bran flakes, coconut flakes, dried fruit and peanuts; stir to combine. Microwave on high 1 minute. Stir and microwave 30 seconds.
3. Press mixture into 13-by-9-inch baking dish lined with parchment or wax paper with some extra hanging over edges to easily lift bars out. Use bottom of glass wrapped with plastic wrap to press granola mixture firmly into pan. Allow to cool completely 30-45 minutes. Cut into 12-14 bars.

Peanut Butter Chicken

Recipe courtesy of "Unsophisticook"
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Yield: 6 cups

Peanut Sauce:

• 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons sweet red chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/8-1/4 cup hot water (optional)
• chopped unsalted roasted peanuts (optional)
   
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 3/4 cup peanut sauce
• cooked brown rice
• assorted bell peppers, sliced
• chopped unsalted roasted peanuts (optional)

1. To make peanut sauce: In small glass bowl, whisk peanut butter, sweet red chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce and honey until blended smoothly.
2. Thin sauce with hot water to desired consistency. Garnish with chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, if desired.
3. To make chicken: In large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle oil. Add diced chicken then pour soy sauce over top. Saute about 10-12 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
4. Serve with peanut sauce, brown rice and colorful sliced veggies. Garnish with chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, if desired.

Source: Georgia Peanut Commission

(Family Features) While eating healthy and enjoying sweets seldom go hand-in-hand, choosing the right combination of nutritious ingredients can allow for guilt-free indulgences that shirks conventional dieting wisdom. In fact, some eating plans take it a step further by actually encouraging eating big in the evening when you’re naturally hungriest to help achieve your weight loss goals.

For example, “Always Eat After 7 PM,” written by Joel Marion, CISSN, NSCA-CPT, five-time best-selling e-book author and co-founder of the e-commerce supplement company BioTrust Nutrition, debunks popular diet myths and offers an easy-to-follow diet that accelerates fat-burning and allows you to indulge in your most intense cravings by eating the majority of your calories at night. The outlined plan features a 14-day “acceleration phase” designed for rapid results, a “main phase” when you’ll learn which fat-burning foods to eat to achieve your weight loss goals and a “lifestyle phase” to keep the weight off for good.

Conventional wisdom dictates that it’s best to avoid carbs, eat an early dinner and never eat immediately before bed. However, Marion debunks the myths underlying traditional dieting with a simple, highly effective weight loss program allowing readers to enjoy social dinners without restriction, satisfy nighttime hunger with fat-burning sweet and salty pre-bedtime snacks and indulge cravings with strategically timed cheat meals.

With straightforward food lists, easy-to-follow meal plans and recipes for each phase, this can be a simpler, more enjoyable way to lose weight without feeling restricted. Taken directly from the book, these recipes for No Bake Salted Caramel Bars, Cherry Garcia Ice Cream and Fruit Tarts can satisfy that sweet tooth before heading to bed.

Learn more about the diet and book at joelmarion.com.

Fruit Tarts

Recipe courtesy of “Always Eat After 7 PM”
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour, 20 minutes
Servings: 20

Custard:

• 8          egg yolks
• 1          cup raw honey
• 1          tablespoon coconut flour
• 3          cans (13 2/3 ounces each) full-fat coconut milk
• 1          teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4       teaspoon lemon zest

Sugar Cookie Crust:

• 1/2       cup coconut oil, plus additional for greasing
• 1/2       cup palm shortening
• 1          cup coconut palm sugar
• 1          teaspoon baking soda
• 1          teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 3          egg yolks
• 1⁄2       teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1          cup blanched almond flour
• 1⁄4       cup coconut flour
• 2          tablespoons arrowroot starch

Toppings:

• 2          kiwis, peeled and sliced
• 1          mango, peeled, pitted and sliced into 1/2-inch strips
• 1/2       cup raspberries
• 1/2       cup blackberries
• 1/2       cup blueberries
• 1/2       cup red grapes
• 1          cup strawberries, thinly sliced
• fresh mint leaves, for garnish

1. To make custard: In saucepan, whisk egg yolks and honey until smooth. Mix in coconut flour.
2. In medium saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk, vanilla extract and lemon zest; bring to boil then remove from heat.
3. Pour hot milk mixture into egg yolk mixture, stirring while pouring. Over low heat, simmer 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool, continuing to stir occasionally. Once cooled to room temperature, pour into individual custard cups. Chill in refrigerator 30 minutes, or until serving.
5. To make crust: Heat oven to 350° F. Line bottom of pie pan with parchment paper and grease with coconut oil.
6. In large mixing bowl using electric mixer on high, beat coconut oil and palm shortening 30 seconds. Add coconut palm sugar, baking soda, cream of tartar and salt; beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in egg yolks and vanilla until combined. Beat in almond flour, coconut flour and starch. Chill dough in refrigerator 15 minutes.
7. Press chilled cookie dough into bottom of pie pan and 2 inches up sides. Bake 12 minutes, or until crust is golden and browned on top and edges. Remove from oven and cool 10 minutes. Place cooled crust in refrigerator 30 minutes or overnight before assembling.
8. To assemble fruit tarts: Spread custard over chilled crust. Decorate top in circular pattern with kiwis, mango strips, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, grapes and strawberries.
9. Before serving, chill at least 30 minutes or freeze 1 hour to help keep toppings in place.
10. Remove from freezer and set out at room temperature 20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with mint leaves.

Nutritional information per serving: 192 calories; 14 g fat; 16 g carbohydrates; 61 mg sodium; 2 g fiber; 1 g protein; 9 g sugar.

Cherry Garcia Ice Cream

Recipe courtesy of “Always Eat After 7 PM”
Prep time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1/4       cup fresh Bing cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/4       cup stevia-sweetened dark chocolate bar, chopped
• 3          overripe frozen bananas, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4       cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 pinch sea salt

1. Chill cherries and dark chocolate.
2. In food processor, pulse frozen bananas, milk and salt until smooth, creamy consistency of soft serve is achieved. Stir in cherries and chocolate. Serve immediately or place in freezer-safe container and freeze until serving.

Nutritional information per serving: 165 calories; 7 g fat; 27 g carbohydrates; 134 mg sodium; 6 g fiber; 2 protein; 12 g sugar.

No Bake Salted Caramel Bars

Recipe courtesy of “Always Eat After 7 PM”
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Servings: 30

Cookie Layer:

• 2 1/2    cups raw pecans
• 8          pitted dates, soaked in hot water 10 minutes then drained
• 2          tablespoons blanched almond flour
• 1          teaspoon coconut flour
• 1/4       teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4       cup granular zero-calorie, natural sweetener
• 3          tablespoons coconut oil, melted

Caramel Layer:

• 1/2       cup coconut palm sugar
• 1/2       cup granular zero-calorie, natural sweetener
• 2          tablespoons full-fat coconut milk
• 2          tablespoons coconut oil
• 1          pinch sea salt
• 1          tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2       teaspoon baking soda

Chocolate Layer:

• 2          cups stevia-sweetened chocolate chips
• 2          tablespoons coconut oil

• coconut oil
• 1/3       cup dry roasted macadamia nuts, chopped
• coarse sea salt

1. To make cookie layer: Place large skillet over medium heat. Spread pecans over skillet and toast, stirring often, 8-10 minutes until golden. Remove from heat.
2. Transfer toasted pecans to food processor and pulse until fine. Add dates, almond flour, coconut flour, sea salt, sweetener and coconut oil; pulse until dough forms.
3. To make caramel layer: In skillet over medium heat, combine coconut palm sugar, sweetener, coconut milk, coconut oil, sea salt and vanilla extract; bring to boil. Once boiling, decrease heat to low and cook 5 minutes, stirring often.
4. Remove skillet from heat; whisk in baking soda. Return pan to low heat and cook 2 minutes, stirring often.
5. Remove caramel from heat and let cool and thicken 5 minutes.
6. To make chocolate layer: In double boiler, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil. Stir until mixture is smooth then remove from heat.
7. To assemble salted caramel bars: Line bottom and sides of 9-by-9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some hanging over sides. Lightly rub parchment paper with coconut oil.
8. Press cookie dough into bottom of pan to create even layer. Place in freezer 5 minutes to harden.
9. Pour caramel over cookie layer and spread to coat evenly. Place in freezer 5 minutes. Pour chocolate over caramel and spread to cover evenly. Sprinkle with macadamia nuts and coarse salt. Place in freezer 10 minutes until chocolate sets.
10. Use overhanging parchment paper to ease set mixture out of pan. Transfer to cutting board and slice into bite-size bars.

Nutritional information per serving: 180 calories; 15 g fat; 15 g carbohydrates; 56 mg sodium; 4 g fiber; 2 g protein; 4 g sugar.

Source: Promote A Book

(Family Features) A whole-grain food, popcorn has energy-producing carbohydrates and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied longer when looking for an at-home snack to share with loved ones. 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 in a recipe like Coconut Crunch Chia Clusters.

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

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Coconut Crunch Chia Clusters

Yield: 8 cups

• 8          cups unsalted, unbuttered popped popcorn
• 2/3       cup granulated sugar
• 1/3       cup butter
• 3          tablespoons honey
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1          cup coconut flakes
• 3          tablespoons chia seeds

1. Preheat oven to 325° F. Line large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place popcorn in large mixing bowl.
2. In small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, honey and salt; bring to light boil, stirring often, until melted.
3. Pour sugar mixture over popcorn. Add coconut flakes and chia seeds; toss gently to combine.
4. Spread mixture on prepared baking sheet. Bake about 30 minutes, or until popcorn is lightly toasted. Let cool completely; break into clusters for serving.

Source:  Popcorn Board

(Family Features) Whipping up a fresh cooked meal is one of the true joys of summer, especially when grilled grub is paired with tantalizing sides and tempting desserts.

Spice things up with Mexican Beef Sliders with Jalapeno Salsa and Avocado Cream coupled with a side like Roasted Potatoes then cap off a filling meal with these sweet and decadent Strawberry Cream Cheese Tartlets. If you’re looking for ways to mix meat and veggies all at once, these ideas for kebabs are a surefire way to please a variety of palates.

Find more summer meal ideas at Culinary.net.

Cook Up Kebabs

As one of the most versatile main courses that can be grilled, kebabs offer nearly endless opportunities for customization. From protein to veggies, soaked wooden skewers can be loaded with just about any favorite flavors before hitting the grates. Consider these options for kicking your kebabs up a notch:

• Steak, cut into chunks
• Chicken, cut into chunks
• Bratwurst or sausage, cut into slices
• Ground beef, shaped into balls
• Lamb
• Shrimp
• Salmon, cut into chunks
• Bacon, cut into small pieces
• Sliced onions
• Sliced bell peppers
• Sliced jalapenos
• Sliced mushrooms
• Sliced cucumbers
• Cherry tomatoes

Summer Sliders with a Spicy Kick

Summer calls for firing up the grill for a fresh-cooked meal, and sliders are an ideal way to enjoy a downsized version of a warm weather favorite.

These Mexican Beef Sliders with Jalapeno Salsa and Avocado Cream are perfect for summer with their spicy kick of salsa and bright, cooling cream. Made with grass-fed beef from New Zealand, where the animals are allowed to roam and graze freely over lush green hills and pastures year-round, the mini burgers boast a lean, finely textured meat that tastes just as nature intended.

Find more tasty summer recipes at beefandlambnz.com.

Mexican Beef Sliders with Jalapeno Salsa and Avocado Cream

Recipe courtesy of Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Patties:

• 1 1/3    pounds lean New Zealand grass-fed ground beef
• 1          clove garlic, crushed
• 1          medium onion, grated or finely chopped
• 1          egg, lightly beaten
• 3/4       cup red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 2          tablespoons tomato paste
• 3          teaspoons dried oregano, chopped
• 2          teaspoons mild smoked paprika
• 2          teaspoons ground cumin
• 1          teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2       cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• olive oil

Jalapeno Salsa:

• 1          cup cucumber, thinly sliced into long ribbons
• 3/4       cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1          red onion, finely sliced
• 1/2       cup pickled jalapenos, finely chopped
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• olive oil
• lime juice

Avocado Cream:

• 1          avocado, mashed
• 1/2       cup sour cream
• 1          lime, juice and zest only
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

• 8-12     slider buns, halved
• 2-3       cobs sweet corn, cooked and sliced into shards
• 8-12     small bamboo skewers

1. To make patties: In bowl, combine beef, garlic, onion, egg, kidney beans, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, cumin, coriander, Parmesan cheese, salt, to taste, and pepper, to taste. Shape into 8-12 small patties. Cover and refrigerate 15 minutes.
2. Heat grill or frying pan to medium heat.
3. Brush patties with oil on both sides. Cook 2-3 minutes on each side, turning once to brown both sides evenly, until cooked through.
4. To make Jalapeno Salsa: In bowl, combine cucumber, cilantro, onion and jalapenos; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
5. To make Avocado Cream: In bowl, combine avocado, sour cream, lime juice and lime zest; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Spread Avocado Cream on bottom buns and place patties on top. Top patties with Jalapeno Salsa, corn and top buns. Press down gently and poke in skewers to secure sliders.

A Sweet Summer Treat

Sweet flavors and warm weather go hand-in-hand, and many summer occasions and get-togethers call for dessert. Take advantage of warm weather favorites like strawberries and raspberries with these Strawberry Cream Cheese Tartlets.

Made using the best berries nature can provide, these bite-size tartlets feature a graham cracker crust base and an indulgent cream cheese filling flavored with sliced strawberries, honey and lemon topped with Well•Pict’s sweet, juicy strawberries and raspberries, which come fresh in clamshell packaging made from 70% recycled water bottles.

Find more sweet recipes that can bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces at wellpict.com/recipe.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Tartlets

Makes: 24 tartlets (4 ounces each)

• 1/2       cup water
• 2          tablespoons lemon juice
• 3          tablespoons lemon zest
• 2          tablespoons gelatin
• 4          cups Well•Pict Strawberries, sliced, divided
• 1/3       cup honey
• 2          packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese
• 1/2       cup sour cream
• 1          cup ice cubes
• 2          cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2       cup melted butter
• 1          cup Well•Pict Strawberries, rinsed, for garnish
• 1          cup Well•Pict Raspberries, rinsed, for garnish

1. In blender, mix water, lemon juice, lemon zest and gelatin until frothy.
2. Add 2 cups strawberries and honey; blend until smooth. Pour into bowl and chill mix 15 minutes.
3. In blender, mix cream cheese, sour cream and ice cubes while incorporating strawberry mixture. Mix in remaining strawberries.
4. In blender or food processor, mix graham crackers and melted butter to crumb consistency. Lightly grease two medium muffin pans and pack graham cracker mixture at bottom of each opening. Pour strawberry mixture over graham cracker mixture and chill until set. Gently pull tartlets from muffin tins and place on serving tray. Garnish with strawberries and raspberries.

Roasted and Ready to Serve

Summer meals centered around grilled fare call for a complementary pairing that completes the classic profile of warm weather food. Using a versatile vegetable like potatoes allows you to think up different methods of cooking for a new flavor each time.

While you’re focused on the main dish being grilled, these Roasted Potatoes can bake away indoors for a simple side that requires little attention.

Find more health resources at usda.gov.

Roasted Potatoes

Recipe courtesy of “A Harvest of Recipes with USDA Foods”
Servings: 6

• 1          pound potatoes, chopped into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2       cup onion, chopped into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2       cup green pepper, chopped into 1-inch cubes
• 1          teaspoon garlic, finely chopped
• 1          teaspoon vegetable oil
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon pepper
• 1          tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2       teaspoon paprika

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
2. In medium bowl, mix potatoes, onions, green peppers and garlic.
3. Add vegetable oil, salt, pepper, parsley and paprika. Mix well.
4. Cover bowl and refrigerate 15 minutes.
5. Spread potato mixture evenly on cookie sheet. Bake about 35 minutes.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images (Kebabs and Roasted Potatoes)

Source:  New Zealand Wagyu Beef
Well•Pict Berries

(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