Give Your Brain a Boost: 5 ways to promote brain health
(Family Features) When it comes to staying healthy, there is a natural emphasis on physical fitness. However, it’s important to know that nurturing and maintaining brain health is also important for leading a fulfilling life.
The brain is the command center of the human body and as such, influences every aspect of life. Maintaining brain health requires providing it with nourishment, rest and healthy stimulation.
Consuming healthy, whole foods, including vegetables and fruits, such as grapes, can help establish a strong foundation for brain health. For example, grapes may help protect against metabolic decline in the brain associated with natural aging; in a human study of elderly subjects with mild cognitive decline, UCLA researchers found consuming 2 1/4 cups of grapes every day preserved healthy metabolic activity in regions of the brain associated with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, where metabolic decline takes hold.
Adding grapes to your favorite healthy recipes, or enjoying them as a simple snack, helps support a healthy brain. Consider these additional ways to promote positive brain health from the experts at the Mayo Clinic.
Sleep Well
Health experts recommend aiming for at least seven hours of sleep per night. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, adequate sleep may help boost overall memory and brain health by giving the brain time to effectively consolidate memories.
Follow a Healthy Diet
Eating nutritiously benefits the body in many ways, including playing a role in brain health. Healthy eating plans like the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods, whole grains, fish, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, are thought by experts to be especially beneficial. Recipes like Warm-Spiced Chickpeas and Couscous with Grapes and Arugula deliver an array of ingredients to support brain health in delicious ways. This recipe is also heart smart because what is good for the heart is also good for the brain.
Stay Social
Keep in touch with family and friends. According to health experts, including the Mayo Clinic, staying connected and interacting socially can help defend against depression and stress, which may contribute to memory loss.
Exercise Regularly
Staying physically active provides well-known benefits for the body, and exercising can also benefit the brain by increasing blood flow to it. Once your workout is over, turn to a post-workout snack like Grapes from California for an energy boost and natural hydration.
Keep Your Mind Active
Like muscles throughout your body, the brain should be used continuously to strengthen it. With nearly endless ways to stimulate the mind, there’s something for everyone to keep their brains in shape from crossword or jigsaw puzzles to reading, learning a new language, playing cards or conquering sudoku.
To find more information about the connection between grapes and health, or discover nutritious recipes, visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com.
Warm-Spiced Chickpeas and Couscous with Grapes and Arugula
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
- 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 cup Israeli pearl couscous
- 3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 can (15 ounces) no-salt-added chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained
- 1 cup red Grapes from California, halved
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups lightly packed baby arugula
- lemon wedges
- In large saucepan over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion, cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt and allspice; cook, stirring, until onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add couscous and stir 1 minute to toast lightly. Add turmeric and water; bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until couscous is tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir chickpeas, grapes and cilantro into couscous then season with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer couscous-grape mixture to large bowl, add arugula and toss well. Serve warm or at room temperature with lemon wedges.
Nutritional information per serving: 370 calories; 12 g protein; 61 g carbohydrates; 9 g fat (17% calories from fat); 1 g saturated fat (2% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 160 mg sodium; 8 g fiber.
Meal-Prep Tips for a Manageable Back-to-School Menu
(Family Features) The hustle and bustle of back-to-school season can cause chaos in households. Class time, field trips and homework typically rule each day, which can make sitting down for a meal seem like a far-off dream. One easy way to save time is simplifying family recipes and prioritizing meal-planning.
Consider these meal-planning tips from the experts at Healthy Family Project, whose partners are donating $16,000 to the Foundation for Fresh Produce to support children’s accessibility to fresh fruits and vegetables.
Choose the meals you plan to make for the week. Cut down on prep time by planning dishes with overlapping ingredients then write out a grocery list to keep from overbuying. Recipes like this Southwest Quiche Muffins Bento Box that include a brief list of widely used ingredients can help you avoid buying items you may only use once.
Stock the kitchen with ingredients your family often uses. Ensure you have the spices, seasonings, condiments, sauces and canned foods to prepare favorite meals at a moment’s notice.
Save time by washing and prepping produce once each week. For example, if you’re using sweet peppers in these Mini Sweet Pepper Sheet Pan Nachos and again in another meal that week, prep all at once so they’re ready when it’s time to cook – just be sure to store in an airtight container.
Serve quick snacks that won’t spoil dinner. Kids often need a little fuel for homework, but complicated snacks can cut into already busy schedules. Keep ingredients on hand for simple options like trail mix, fruit parfaits and meat and cheese wraps.
Use kitchen tools that speed up the process. Pressure cookers and air fryers can help you put nutritious meals on the table faster while slow cookers let you prep in the morning and come home to a hot, delicious dinner.
Visit HealthyFamilyProject.com to find more back-to-school recipes.
Mini Sweet Pepper Sheet Pan Nachos
Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4
- 8 ounces Pero Family Farms Mini Sweet Peppers, cut into chip shapes
- 7 ounces tortilla chips
- 1/2 cup sweet or red onion, diced.
- 1/2 cup canned or fresh corn
- 1/2 cup queso fresco cheese
- 1/4 cup black olives
- 1/4 cup jalapeno peppers, fresh sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, for garnish
- 1 lime, cut into thin wedges, for garnish
- Preheat oven to 350 F.
- Place peppers and tortilla chips on sheet pan. Layer onion, corn, cheese, black olives and jalapeno peppers. Bake 3-5 minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
Southwest Quiche Muffins Bento Box
Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- nonstick cooking spray
- 3/4 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup chopped Nature Fresh Farms Tomz tomatoes
- 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 small RealSweet sweet onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup granola
- 1/2 Zespri SunGold kiwi, chopped
- 1 Bee Sweet Citrus mandarin, peeled and segmented
- Preheat oven to 325 F.
- In large bowl, whisk eggs and milk.
- Coat 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray or use silicone muffin liners. Evenly divide beans, tomatoes, cheese and onion among cups. Pour eggs over top.
- Bake 20-25 minutes, or until eggs are set and lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and cool in pan 2-3 minutes. Use knife to loosen edges and remove.
- In cup or bowl, mix yogurt, granola and kiwi.
- Assemble bento box with two quiche muffins, kiwi parfait and mandarin slices.
Source: Healthy Family Project
Power Family Favorites with Peanut Protein
(Family Features) Soaking up some sun and sharing a meal with family and friends brings people together, especially when favorite recipes are on the table. Whether there’s a cause for celebration or a gathering of loved ones is simply overdue, serving up delicious dishes is a sure bet to get everyone involved.
These flavorful Mexinut Dip, Beef and Peanut Empanadas with Chimichurri, Asian Peanut Slaw and Peanut Butter Banana Pops recipes are ideal for the whole family. Starting with a spicy dip best paired with corn chips or crackers, hungry guests can work their way up to the main course of savory empanadas served alongside a tangy Asian slaw. Finally, kids and adults alike can cap off the celebration with a sweet, fruity dessert.
Leaning into a versatile ingredient like peanuts, which make all these dishes possible, can take your gatherings to the next level. They complement a wide range of recipes from appetizers and snacks to main courses and desserts.
Plus, they contain 26% protein and fulfill approximately 30% of a 4-6-year-old’s and 26% of a 7-10-year-old’s recommended daily allowance per serving, making them a kid-favorite source of energy. They contain six essential vitamins – vitamin E, folate, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin and vitamin B6 – and seven essential minerals – phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper and calcium.
Often referred to as “nutrition in a nutshell,” there’s a good chance your peanut supply came from the United States’ leading grower: Georgia. With approximately 4,000 active peanut farmers, the state produces 52% of the country’s peanuts.
To find more family-friendly recipe ideas powered by peanuts, visit GAPeanuts.com.
Mexinut Dip
Recipe courtesy of the Georgia Peanut Commission
Yield: 4 cup
- 1 can (11 1/2 ounces) condensed bean with bacon soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10 ounces) tomatoes and green chiles
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon hot chili powder
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- corn chips or crackers
- In 2-quart microwave-safe container, combine soup, cheddar cheese, tomatoes and green chiles, onion, chili powder and peanut butter. Cover with glass or plastic lid.
- Microwave on high 2 1/2 minutes; stir. Microwave 2 1/2 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
- Stir before serving with corn chips or crackers.
Beef and Peanut Empanadas with Chimichurri
Recipe courtesy of "Set the Table" on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission
Yield: 30-40 small empanadas
Spicy Beef and Peanut Empanadas:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1/3 cup golden raisins
- 1/2 cup raw Georgia Peanuts
- 2 tablespoons pickled jalapenos, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon water, plus additional for sealing dough
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 2 packages pie crust
- 1 egg white, in small bowl
Chimichurri:
- 1/3 cup flat leaf parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- To make spicy beef and peanut empanadas: In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add onion, red pepper flakes, garlic, raisins, peanuts and jalapenos. Cook until onion and garlic are soft and fragrant. Add ground beef and brown thoroughly. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon water. Cook 2-3 minutes, stirring to prevent burning. Season with salt and pepper, to taste; transfer filling to large bowl and cool.
- Preheat oven to 375 F.
- Unroll pie crusts on lightly floured work surface. Using round cutter at least 3 inches in diameter, cut out rounds.
- Using rolling pin, roll out edges of each circle, leaving center of circle at its original thickness.
- Holding one round of dough in palm of hand, scoop about 1 tablespoon filling into center. Using fingertip, line edge of dough with water, fold into half moon shape and pinch to seal. For extra ease, use fork.
- Place filled empanadas on parchment-lined baking sheet and brush tops with egg white.
- Bake 20-25 minutes on upper rack.
- To make chimichurri: In blender or food processor, pulse parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes and olive oil 2-3 times. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve in small bowl for dipping.
Asian Peanut Slaw
Recipe courtesy of the Georgia Peanut Commission
- 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges
- 1/4 cup Asian sesame dressing
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1/2 cup coarsely chopped dry roasted peanuts
- 1 bag (16 ounces) three-colored deli slaw mix
- chow mein noodles
- Drain juice from mandarin oranges into mixing bowl and reserve oranges.
- In bowl with juice, add dressing, peanut butter and red pepper; whisk until well blended. Add peanuts, oranges and coleslaw mix; toss until thoroughly coated.
- Garnish with chow mein noodles before serving.
Peanut Butter Banana Pops
Recipe courtesy of registered dietitian Annessa Chumbley on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission
Yield: 8 pops
- Craft sticks
- 4 firm, ripe bananas, peeled and halved crosswise
- 1 cup melted chocolate wafers
- 1/2 cup finely chopped peanuts
Toppings:
- unsweetened coconut flakes (optional)
- chopped dried pineapple (optional)
- chopped dried strawberries (optional)
- melted peanut butter chips (optional)
- Insert one craft stick into each banana half. Place eight banana pops in single layer on small tray covered with parchment paper. Place tray in freezer at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Pour melted chocolate into bowl. Dip each frozen banana into bowl, turning to coat. Lay chocolate-covered bananas back on parchment paper. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts. Sprinkle with coconut flakes, pineapple and strawberries, if desired. Drizzle with melted peanut butter chips, if desired.
Source: Georgia Peanut Commission
French Onion Baked Chicken
(Family Features) Many families crave those memorable moments together at the dinner table, and in spite of frenetic schedules and seemingly never-ending to-do lists, there are easy ways to make those meals a reality. Take the challenge out of bringing everyone together with a simple yet special recipe made for sharing.
This flavorful French Onion Baked Chicken can become a family favorite and weekly menu staple, and with 6-8 servings, it’s perfect for seconds or saving to reheat for weekday lunches. Sweet, jammy, caramelized onions are placed atop juicy chicken breasts and baked to tender deliciousness for an aroma that brings loved ones running to grab a plate.
Starring TX1015 Sweet Onions, this tasty meal relies on their mild sweetness, appetizing caramelization and versatility without the bite compared to other onion varieties. Available from early-spring through mid-summer, the varying climates of Texas allow for a range of growing seasons: March-June in deep south areas and May-July in the south-central region.
Take advantage of your opportunity to add sweet flavor to family meals this year by finding more recipe ideas at tx1015.com.
Watch video to see how to make this recipe!
French Onion Baked Chicken
Recipe courtesy of South Texas Onions
Servings: 6-8
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Caramelized Onions:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 medium sweet onions, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire
- 2/3 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella, gruyere or fontina cheese
- Preheat oven to 400 F. In large pan over medium-high heat, heat oil. Sear chicken breasts 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove from pan.
- To make caramelized onions: In separate pan over medium-high heat, heat butter and olive oil. Once butter is melted and bubbling, add onions. Let sit 5 minutes.
- Turn heat to low and cover onions. Cook 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stir in salt, fresh thyme and garlic; cover onions. Cook 10 minutes.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire, beef broth and Dijon mustard. Cover and cook 10-15 minutes, or until onions are brown and jammy. Stir onions every 10 minutes.
- Place chicken breasts in greased baking dish. Top with onions then cheese. Place any additional onions in bottom of dish.
- Bake 30-35 minutes, or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165 F.
Source: South Texas Onions
Bring the Family Together with Breakfast for Dinner
(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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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)
- Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over medium heat.
- 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.
- Microwave tortillas on high 45 seconds. Transfer to work surface.
- Spread egg mixture in center of each tortilla. Top with the avocado and hot sauce, if desired.
- 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)
- Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat.
- Spoon quinoa into four bowls. Top each with tomatoes, corn, avocado, green onions and cilantro, if desired.
- 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
Serve Up Smiles with Favorite Holiday Sides
(Family Features) Turkey and ham may sit centerstage, but classic holiday sides can make the season truly special. You can bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces by dishing out those favorite recipes everyone asks for year after year.
Made with a delicious combination of rice, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup and broccoli florets, this quick and easy version of Broccoli and Cheese Rice Casserole is an ideal one-pot dish to keep the holidays simple. With three easy steps and everyday ingredients, it comes together with minimal effort for traditional casserole taste.
When it comes to feeding a crowd, it’s often best to let your oven do the work. This Brussels Sprouts and Ham Rice Gratin recipe allows you to serve up a filling favorite with little effort using pantry staples. Plus, it’s a kid-friendly way to encourage veggies at this year’s holiday meal with gooey cheese providing tempting taste bud motivation.
These seasonal classics and more are made quick and easy with an option like Success Boil-in-Bag Rice, a pre-measured, mess-free way to make fluffy, high-quality rice. It’s cooked by simply dropping a bag of rice in a pot of water or broth then boiling it for 10 minutes. BPA-free and FDA-approved, the bags are safe to use and made to withstand high temperatures.
An added bonus: If you’re aiming to achieve a particular flavor, just season the rice by cooking in water infused with herbs, spices, broth, coconut milk or other liquids like juice for sweeter recipes.
Visit SuccessRice.com to find more holiday recipe inspiration.
Brussels Sprouts and Ham Rice Gratin
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
- 1 bag Success White Rice
- 1/2 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/3 cup diced ham
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Preheat oven to 450 F. Prepare rice according to package directions.
- In large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts, ham, garlic, olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Place on parchment paper-lined baking tray and roast 12-15 minutes, or until caramelized. Decrease oven temperature to 425 F.
- In large bowl, toss rice, Brussels sprouts mixture, cream, chives, Dijon mustard, remaining salt and remaining pepper. Stir in cheddar and 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese. Transfer mixture to greased, 2-quart baking dish.
- In small bowl, stir breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan and melted butter. Sprinkle over rice mixture.
- Bake 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
Broccoli and Cheese Rice Casserole
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
- 1 bag Success White Rice or Brown Rice
- nonstick cooking spray
- 1 can (10 3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups frozen broccoli florets, thawed and drained
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon grated onion
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Prepare rice according to package directions. Preheat oven to 350 F.
- Coat 2-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. In medium bowl, combine soup, broccoli, 1 cup cheddar cheese, evaporated milk, butter, onion, salt and pepper. Fold in rice.
- Pour mixture into prepared dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake 20 minutes.
Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with Grapes, Carrots and Parsnips
(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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Note: For softer roasted grapes, add to pan earlier.
- 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.
Barbecue Corn and Potato Chowder
(Family Features) Schedules full of homework, practices, performances, social activities and more make fall one of the busiest times of year, which often pushes meal planning to the backburner. This autumn, as you look to keep family meals on the menu, consider simple strategies that take the guesswork out of meal prep.
For example, this Barbecue Corn and Potato Chowder offers a satisfying, wholesome dinner for your loved ones without spending an entire evening in the kitchen. The key addition: Dole’s Chopped BBQ Ranch Salad Kit with pre-cut and pre-washed greens and veggies to save prep time with barbecue ranch dressing as an all-in-one flavor base.
Serving as the foundation of the recipe, chopped salads are made with sturdy greens and veggies for a satisfying eating experience that can stand up to being cooked without losing texture and character. Plus, the all-important toppings – crispy fried onions and cheddar tortilla strips – add the ideal crunch to this warm, comforting meal.
Visit Dole.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest to find more easy-to-make fall recipes and nutritional information.
Watch video to see how to make this recipe!
Barbecue Corn and Potato Chowder
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 5
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large Dole Onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium Dole Russet Potato, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 package (14.4 ounces) DOLE® Chopped BBQ Ranch Salad Kit
- 2 ears corn, kernels cut from cob (about 2 cups)
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup milk
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- shredded sharp cheddar cheese, for garnish
- In large soup pot over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onion, garlic and potato; saute 2 minutes. Add cumin and paprika; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salad greens from kit to pot and cook 2 minutes, or until lettuce is wilted.
- Add corn and water to pot and bring to boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer gently 10 minutes. Add milk and dressing packet from kit; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Simmer uncovered 5 minutes.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese and chips packet from kit.
Source: Dole
Cooler Weather Means Cozy Family Food
(Family Features) After families across the country began cooking more at home during the pandemic, that trend has continued as loved ones seek comfort in the kitchen in the form of their favorite recipes and time spent together.
In fact, according to the “Hunter Food News Study,” cooking continues to change as more Americans come together at the dining table with recipe usage up 21% and dinners cooked from scratch up 14%. Around half (54%) of Americans are cooking more than they were before the pandemic, and 35% said they “enjoy cooking now more than ever,” according to “Harvard Business Review.”
If those closest to you are looking for home-cooked comfort, you can turn to satisfying family meals like Plant-Based Meatloaf Sandwiches or Chicken Souse. These hearty recipes make it easy for loved ones to involve everyone in the cooking process from preparing vegetables and hand-mixing meatloaf to seasoning chicken and simmering ingredients.
With 65% of consumers saying they’re most likely to purchase a whole week’s worth of groceries when shopping, according to research from Datassential, opportunities abound for families to enjoy delicious, comforting dishes together.
Find more family meal inspiration by visiting Aramark’s Feed Your Potential website, fyp365.com.
Plant-Based Meatloaf Sandwiches
Recipe courtesy of Aramark
Servings: 6
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1 1/2 pounds plant-based ground burger, thawed
- 1 1/2 cups cooked wild rice, chilled
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 2/3 cup barbecue sauce
- bread
- vegan cheddar cheese
- sauteed onions
- Heat oven to 375 F. Spray rimmed baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
- In bowl, thoroughly mix ground burger, cooked rice, onion, bell pepper, paprika, garlic, sage, thyme, salt and white pepper until well blended without overmixing. Shape mixture into loaf on baking sheet. Spread barbecue sauce over meatloaf.
- Bake 1 hour, or until internal temperature reaches 160 F.
- Slice meatloaf into six pieces and place each piece on bread. Top each meatloaf slice with vegan cheddar cheese and sauteed onions then close sandwiches with top bread slices. Using panini press, griddle or frying pan, cook sandwiches until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Tip: Pairs well with potato salad.
Chicken Souse
Recipe courtesy of Aramark
Servings: 6
- 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup peeled potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2/3 cup canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons minced, seeded jalapeno pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced, peeled ginger root
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
- 2 pinches dried thyme leaves
- 1 small bay leaf
- 1 1/2 cups thawed mixed vegetables, drained
- Season chicken with 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder and onion powder. Cover and chill 2 hours, or overnight.
- In saucepan over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onion and celery; saute 2 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Add garlic and saute 30 seconds.
- Add chicken and saute until browned.
- Stir in broth, potatoes, tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, jalapeno pepper, lemon juice, ginger, 1 teaspoon salt, thyme and bay leaf; heat to boil. Reduce heat. Cover and simmer 1 hour, or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in mixed vegetables and simmer 10 minutes. Remove and discard bay leaf. Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste.
Tips: Serve souse with griddled corn cakes and saltine crackers. Make vegetarian by replacing chicken with canned drained and rinsed black-eyed peas or red or white beans.
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Warm Up Fall with Filling Family Meals
(Family Features) Cooler fall months call for comforting, hearty meals that taste just as delicious as they look. Filling recipes like chili and pasta make the season a special time for spending quality moments with those you love.
This fall, turn to a time-saving ingredient like Newman’s Own Sockarooni Pasta Sauce with its blend of tomatoes, mushrooms and bell peppers plus a few signature spices. This versatile sauce made with high-quality ingredients is ready to be a new favorite at your home in recipes like Chili Con Carne, a satisfying dish that can simmer on the stove while you help little ones with homework.
If your family and friends love sharing pasta on those cool, crisp evenings, Lasagna a la Sockarooni can help you impress guests as a quick, easy recipe elevated by creamy and buttery bechamel sauce.
Along with comforting foods, fall is also a time for giving. You can put tasty food on your own table while helping nourish and transform the lives of children who face adversity with Newman’s Own’s radically good commitment to “giving it all away.” As with all of its products, 100% of profits from Sockarooni Pasta Sauce is donated to organizations that help kids.
Learn more about supporting that commitment and find additional autumn recipes by visiting NewmansOwn.com.
Chili Con Carne
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Servings: 8
- 2 cups diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green pepper, seeded and chopped
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 2 pounds coarsely ground lean beef
- 2 cups kidney beans, soaked overnight
- 1 jar Newman's Own Sockarooni or Marinara Pasta Sauce
- 2-3 cups water
- 2-3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 can (8 ounces) corn
- sour cream, for garnish
- lime wedges, for garnish
- Saute onion, garlic and green pepper in oil until soft. Add beef and brown. Add kidney beans, pasta sauce, water, chili powder, cumin and salt and pepper, to taste. Simmer, uncovered, 1 hour, stirring frequently.
- Add celery and corn; simmer 1 hour. Garnish with sour cream and lime wedges.
Substitution: Use 3 cups cooked rice for meat to make vegetarian chili.
Lasagna a la Sockarooni
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 9
- Salted water
- 1 package lasagna noodles
- 1 jar Newman's Own Sockarooni Pasta Sauce
- 2 cups Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated
Bechamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- Over high heat, boil large pot of heavily salted water. Once boiling, add lasagna noodles and cook until al dente then drain and set aside.
- To make bechamel sauce: In saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter. Add flour and stir with wooden spoon until paste forms. Add small amount of milk and stir until mixture loosens. Gradually add remaining milk and continue stirring with whisk. Cook sauce over low heat until thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375 F.
- In large, deep, oven-proof casserole dish, ladle small amount of pasta sauce followed by small amount of bechamel sauce. Sprinkle some Parmigiano Reggiano cheese over sauces and layer with three lasagna noodles. Continue pattern until dish is complete. Top final layer of noodles with remaining bechamel sauce and grated Parmigiano Reggiano.
- Bake 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Cool prior to serving.
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