(Family Features) No matter what the latest taste trend or hot new celebrity-endorsed recipe, you can always count on a few classic home-style standards to make a comeback around this time every year. Typically known as “comfort foods” for their ability to soothe and warm the soul, these familiar dishes not only taste delicious, but also make us feel warm and fuzzy all over — and are especially welcoming during the chill of the colder months.  Perhaps Grandma’s famed chicken noodle soup comes to mind, or Dad’s special meatballs with marinara. Maybe it’s Mom’s ultra-gooey, rich mac ’n’ cheese, your own fork-tender pot roast or delicious turkey and stuffing holiday leftovers.

Whatever the dish, though, all comfort foods have one thing in common — we turn to them for relief when we’re tired, stressed, under-the-weather or simply looking for a taste of home. They are typically simple, hearty, uncomplicated meals, informal and inexpensive to prepare, yet immensely satisfying to those lucky enough to be served them.
Three comfort classics that never seem to go out of style are pot roast, shepherd’s pie and beef stroganoff. The recipes included here require no extensive prep or unusual ingredients, so they’re easy to whip up, even on a weeknight.

The slow cooker pot roast offers a particularly convenient alternative to last-minute cooking, since the prep all occurs in the morning, leaving the roast to cook to tender perfection all day. By using some convenient comfort food shortcuts on your ingredient list, such as Heinz® HomeStyle Savory Beef Gravy and Wyler’s® Beef Bouillon cubes, you can add an extra layer of flavor to the roast, without the fuss of making gravy from scratch. The pot roast also includes a healthy helping of veggies, so it could easily become a complete meal with fresh bread or a green salad.

If you’re looking for a comfort food that doubles as a one-dish wonder — shepherd’s pie has it all. It includes the meat, vegetables and starch most of us associate with a complete home-style meal. Plus, using prepared Ore-Ida® Mashed Potatoes to top the pie eliminates the laborious task of making mashed potatoes from scratch.  Also, if you’re craving a comfort food with some added interest, try this creamy beef stroganoff. It’s simple to make and serves up a delicious plate of savory chunks of beef tenderloin, sautéed mushrooms and steaming noodles. And, if you want to add a little extra flare, try pairing it with a glass of merlot. That’s sure to offer some added warmth and a new level of sophistication.

So, with these simple, home-cooking classics in your culinary arsenal this season, there’s no need to rush out and purchase the latest “cookbook du jour.” Just stick to the basics this season and you’ll be sure to find some classic convenience, comfort and good taste.

Beef Stroganoff

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Serves 6 to 8

• 1 pound sirloin steak (cut into thin strips) or 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 cups (8 ounces) sliced fresh mushrooms
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1/4 cup margarine or butter
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon Wyler’s Beef Flavored Granules or 3 bouillon cubes
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces wide egg noodles, prepared according to package directions
• Chopped parsley, optional

1. In large skillet, over medium-high heat, cook and stir steak, mushrooms and onion in margarine until steak is browned and vegetables are tender. Reduce heat to medium. Add flour to thicken, if desired; cook and stir 1 minute. Add water and bouillon; cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Stir in sour cream; heat through. (Do not boil.) Serve with hot noodles. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Slow Cooker Savory Pot Roast

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 to 10 hours
Serves 6 to 8

• 3 pounds bottom round beef roast
• 1 Wyler’s Mrs. Grass Reduced Sodium Onion Recipe, Soup and Dip Mix pouch
• 1 jar (12 ounces) Heinz HomeStyle Savory Beef Gravy
• 2 Wyler’s Beef Bouillon Cubes or 2 teaspoons Wyler’s Beef Granules
• 1 can (14 1/2-ounces) diced tomato with basil, garlic and oregano
• 2 cups water
• 3 cups mixed vegetables, such as sliced carrots, cut green beans, diced redskin potatoes, green peas, sliced celery

1. In large skillet sprayed with nonstick spray, brown beef over medium-high heat 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally.
2. Combine soup mix, 1 jar of gravy, bouillon and diced tomato in 5-quart slow cooker. Add water and stir well. Add beef and turn until well coated. Cover and cook on low heat setting 8 to 10 hours, turning occasionally.
3. Add mixed vegetables during last 2 hours, stirring occasionally. When vegetables are tender, remove beef from cooker. Slice or shred beef as desired, and serve with vegetables and sauce.

Shepherd’s Pie

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
Serves 4 to 6

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 jar (12 ounces) Heinz HomeStyle Savory Beef Gravy
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups prepared Ore-Ida Mashed Potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1. In large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned and thoroughly cooked. Carefully drain liquids and return to stovetop. Stir in gravy and vegetables and bring to boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer 8 minutes, or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. While beef mixture is still in skillet, spoon mashed potatoes onto it, forming 8 mounds, and top with cheese. Continue to simmer until potatoes are hot and cheese is melted. Serve immediately.

Source: Heinz Gravy / Ore-Ida Mashed Potatoes / Wyler’s Bouillon

A perfect way to entertain around the table

(Family Features) With springtime in full bloom, brunch is the perfect way to entertain friends and family for nearly any upcoming occasion or celebration. Take advantage of the budding season with quality time spent with loved ones, more outdoor experiences and wholesome nutrition for the whole family, starting with a delicious morning meal around the table.

When it comes to the food they serve their families, moms want to provide good nutrition, especially for their kids, to help them grow up healthy and strong. Serving a nutritious meal each morning is one way to help kids get a good start to the day, so they can be their best in school, play and any other activities the day brings.

Whether moms know it or not, they are powerful role models for their children’s health and nutrition. When moms set the example and eat nutritious meals themselves, kids notice. For instance, according to a study from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, moms who drink milk are more likely to have kids who drink milk, which is a household staple that provides important nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D and potassium. Setting the example for quality nutrition can be made easy with a delicious meal served with milk to celebrate any occasion this season with guests of all ages.

This simple egg casserole is the perfect excuse to bring the family together and start a beautiful spring day with a wholesome meal and quality time together. For more recipes and reasons to bring the family together, visit milklife.com.

Easy Egg Casserole

Servings: 4

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 cup lean ham, cubed
• 1 cup frozen seasoned potatoes with onions and peppers
• 3/4 cup frozen spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup lowfat cheddar or Swiss cheese, shredded
• 6 eggs
• 3/4 cup milk

1. Heat oven to 375° F. Lightly coat 8-by-8-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
2. Arrange ham, potatoes, spinach and cheese in bottom of casserole dish. In large bowl, beat eggs and milk together and pour over ingredients in casserole dish.
3. Bake 25-30 minutes, or until lightly browned and puffed. Serve immediately.
4. Pair each serving with 8-ounce glass of milk.

Nutritional information per serving: 350 calories; 9 g fat; 3 g saturated fat; 350 mg cholesterol; 32 g protein; 34 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 630 mg sodium; 500 mg calcium (50% of daily value). Nutrition figures based on using fat free milk, and include an 8-ounce glass of milk.

Source: MilkPEP

Onion-Roasted Potatoes

Onion-Roasted Potatoes Potatoes are a great, hearty staple for any meal. Instead of greasy french fries, moms can jazz up this popular side with a better-for-you recipe, such as Onion-Roasted Potatoes, that impresses every palate from the kids to the dinner guests.

4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes

• 1 envelope Lipton Recipe Secrets Onion Soup Mix
• 4 medium all-purpose potatoes, cut into large chunks (about 2 pounds)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Combine all ingredients in 13 x 9-inch baking or roasting pan. Bake, stirring occasionally, 35 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown. Variations: Try substituting 2 sweet potatoes for 2 all-purpose potatoes. Or stir in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and soy sauce.

Source: Unilever Brands

Focus on quality ingredients for a simply delicious meal

(Family Features) Hosting an elegant Easter brunch is easy when you build a menu around exceptional ingredients. Your dishes don’t have to be overly complicated; simple dishes are perfect for the occasion when you let stand-out flavors steal the show.

Brunch calls for a combination of light and savory fare, and an ingredient like Jarlsberg Brand Cheese lets you go either way. Best known for its classic wedge, this nutty, mild cheese is also available sliced and shredded – perfect for adding a distinctive taste to nearly any indulgent dish you can imagine.

Quiche is a brunch staple, and no variation of this classic is complete without cheese – in this case, a rich, creamy layering of Jarlsberg’s unmistakable flavor does the trick.

For a lighter bite, try these Cheesy, Crispy Smashed Potatoes from Chef George Duran, host of TLC’s “Ultimate Cake Off” and Food Network’s “Ham on the Street.” You could go a more decadent route with Duran’s Brown Sugar Ham and Cheese Sticky Buns, or even appeal to kids of all ages with his Spicy Tater Tot Breakfast Muffins.

Explore more recipes for a simply elegant Easter brunch at jarlsberg.com.

Spinach and Sundried Tomato Quiche

Recipe courtesy of Jarlsberg Cheese
Servings: 6

Pie Dough:

• 3/4 cup butter
• 1 cup white flour
• 2 tablespoons water

Filling:

• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 red onion, cut into rings
• butter
• 1 cup milk
• 4 eggs
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, sliced
• 1/4 cup olives
• 1 cup shredded Jarlsberg Cheese

1. To make pie dough: Heat oven to 400° F.
2. Mix butter and flour in food processor or by hand until mixture has granular consistency. Add water and knead into dough. Let chill 30 minutes. Roll dough and fit into 10-inch pie pan. With fork, make holes in dough and bake 15 minutes.
3. To make filling: Heat oven to 350° F.
4. In frying pan, fry onion and spinach with butter then scoop mixture into quiche base. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt and pepper, and pour over spinach and onion. Top with olives, sundried tomatoes and cheese.
5. Bake 35-40 minutes.

Cheesy, Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Recipe courtesy of Chef George Duran
Servings: 4

• 25 red bliss or fingerling potatoes, bite-size
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 cup grated Jarlsberg Cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced parsley

1. Heat oven to 450° F and cook potatoes by steaming, boiling or microwaving. Set aside.
2. In small saute pan or saucepan, add olive oil and garlic. Cook on medium-low heat until garlic browns and turns crispy, about 5 minutes. Strain garlic, reserving olive oil and crispy garlic.
3. Once potatoes cool, use back of pan to gently smash them down to about 1/2-inch thickness. Drizzle olive oil throughout roasting pan then add smashed potatoes. Drizzle reserved garlic olive oil on top of each potato and season with salt and pepper. Roast 20 minutes.
4. Remove from oven and evenly divide cheese and parsley on top of each potato. Cook another 10 minutes until cheese begins to brown. Top each potato with reserved crispy garlic and allow to cool before serving.

Spicy Tater Tot Breakfast Muffins

Recipe courtesy of Chef George Duran
Servings: 12

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 36 frozen tater tots
• 2 cups grated Jarlsberg Cheese, divided
• 8 large eggs
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeds and veins removed and finely chopped
• 1/2 red pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
• finely chopped parsley, for garnish

1. Heat oven to 425° F. Spray 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray.
2. Place three tater tots into each muffin cup and bake 10 minutes. Remove from oven and use small spoon or fork to gently press down on tater tots to form base and sides of each muffin.
3. Sprinkle 2 cups Jarlsberg cheese equally over tater tots and bake 10 minutes.
4. Beat eggs in large bowl and add jalapeno, red pepper, heavy cream, salt and pepper.
5. Remove tater tots from oven and pour egg mixture into cups. Top evenly with remaining grated cheese and bake 10 minutes.
6. Remove each muffin and allow to cool 5 minutes on cooling rack before garnishing with parsley and serving.

Tip: For a non-spicy alternative, replace jalapeno with same amount of green bell peppers.

Brown Sugar Ham and Cheese Sticky Buns

Recipe courtesy of Chef George Duran
Servings: 12

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 2 tubes (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• flour, for dusting
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar, divided
• 12 slices thin-cut ham
• 12 slices Jarlsberg Cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Jarlsberg Cheese
• chives or green onions, for garnish

1. Heat oven to 375° F. Spray nonstick spray in 8-by-8-inch pan or similar.
2. Unroll dough on floured surface and gently stretch until dough is about 8 by 12 inches. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons brown sugar over dough then evenly space six slices of ham and six slices of cheese on top. Starting on short side, begin rolling dough jelly roll style. Cut into six pieces. Repeat with second piece of dough.
3. Place all 12 buns inside pan. Sprinkle grated cheese on top. Bake 20-25 minutes until buns are fully cooked and browned. Garnish with chives or green onions and serve.

Source: Jarlsberg Cheese

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Irish Potato Bread

Boxty is practically a national dish in Ireland. It can be served as a potato pancake, a dumpling or, as here, in a crunchy soda bread.

• 2 3/4-pound russet potatoes
• 1 large egg plus 1 large egg white
• 1/3 cup canola oil, plus additional for greasing the baking sheet
• 3/4 cup fat-free milk
• 2 tablespoons minced chives (or the green part of a scallion)
• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional for dusting and kneading
• 1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

1. Bring 1 inch water to a boil over high heat in vegetable steamer or large saucepan fitted with portable vegetable steamer. Peel 1 potato and cut into eighths; steam pieces until tender when pierced with fork, about 15 minutes. Rice or mash pieces in large bowl; set aside to cool 15 minutes.
2. Position rack in center of oven; preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly oil large baking sheet with canola oil dabbed on paper towel.
3. Peel other potato and grate it through large holes of box grater. Squeeze out any excess moisture; add to riced or mashed potatoes.
   Stir in egg, egg white, oil, milk, chives and caraway seeds until fairly smooth. Add 3 1/4 cups flour, baking powder and salt; stir with wooden spoon until mixture forms soft but sticky dough.
4. Lightly flour clean work surface as well as your cleaned and dried hands. Turn dough out onto floured surface and knead 1 minute, adding flour in 1-tablespoon increments to keep dough from turning too sticky. Too much flour and dough turns tough; it should remain a little tacky but workable. Shape into 8-inch circle, flatten slightly keeping loaf mounded at its center and place on prepared baking sheet. Use sharp knife to slash X in top of dough, cutting into dough about 1/2 inch.
5. Bake until golden brown and firm to the touch , about 55 minutes. Cool 1 hour on wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition information per slice: 183 calories, 5 g fat, 14 mg cholesterol, 298 mg sodium, 30 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 5 g protein, 222 mg potassium, 6 mg vitamin C

Source: United States Potato Board

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(Family Features) Romeo and Juliet. Antony and Cleopatra. Lamb and Potatoes (or Mint or Feta). The list of American lamb’s great loves goes on and on. This luscious protein entices any side or ingredient it touches.

A truly versatile meat in terms of texture and flavor, American lamb is an excellent choice for the cook who wants to spice things up, both literally and figuratively.

From a classic Rack of Lamb and rich Lamb Shank Osso Buco to Grilled Lamb and Feta Burgers, there are many reasons (and ways) to enjoy lamb. Take lamb’s versatility to the next level by pairing it with longtime loves like potatoes and pomegranates, but with little twists to give it a fresh taste.

As a delicious and nutrient-rich food, American lamb is a natural choice. There is a cut, loin or chop to tempt taste buds and spark culinary excitement for a romantic dinner for two or simply a gathering with friends. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out these six enticing couplings of American lamb and other favorite foods. For more tantalizing recipes, visit AmericanLamb.com.

1. Lamb and Pomegranates
Some say pomegranate seeds are the rubies of the orchard, so it’s only fitting that lamb is often adorned by one of nature’s precious gems. Think of pomegranate as the yin to the lamb’s yang. Its tart, clean flavor balances the richness of luxurious lamb dishes such as this Braised Lamb Shank with Pomegranates and Fennel.

2. Lamb and Rosemary
Lamb and mint have been bedfellows for centuries. However, there’s another herb that matches up well with lamb – rosemary. The fragrant woody aroma of rosemary infused into a grilled leg of lamb alongside charred lemons is what dreams (and dinners) are made of.

3. Lamb and Potatoes
A classic Irish love story with an American twist. The humble potato is drawn to the ever-mysterious cut of lamb, and the rest is history. Think American Lamb Chops and Fingerling Potatoes or Irish Stew. You’ll never go wrong with Shepherd’s Pie, and this one gets an added kick from horseradish.

4. Lamb and Pasta
Ground lamb is experiencing a renaissance in American cuisine. It’s one of those chameleon foods that can transform itself from a juicy burger to a flavorful ragu, and pasta is its ideal companion. Create your own “Lady and the Tramp” crossed with “Casablanca” moment with this Northern African-inspired riff on spaghetti and meatballs featuring Merguez Sausage prepared with American lamb.

5. Lamb and Garam Masala
There are some pairings that can create some serious heat in the kitchen. Take garam masala for example. “Garam” means hot or heating and “masala” means spice blend. Rub this popular blend, which often contains black pepper, cinnamon, cumin, fennel and more, onto a rack of lamb ribs before it hits the oven. Slather individual chops in a velvety bath like this Indian Coconut Feenugreek Sauce.

6. Lamb and Red Wine
Red wine pairs with lamb in many ways. Loin chops, roast or ribs, there isn’t a cut of lamb that doesn’t pair well with red wine. As an ingredient, red wine provides acidity to perfectly complement the lamb. The hardest part of this recipe is opening the bottle of wine.

Source: American Lamb Board

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(Family Features) Potatoes are the top food eaten alongside grilled main dishes, according to the NPD Group, so why not put potatoes on the grill too? Try grilling thick potato planks, skewered potato chunks, or colorful halved fingerlings in a zesty rub like these Flame-Licked Fingerlings, created by award-winning cookbook authors Karen Adler and Judith Fertig, also known as the “BBQ Queens.”

“A lot of people don’t know you can grill potatoes,” said the BBQ Queens. “They’re sturdy enough to hold up well on the grill, versatile enough to grill in many different ways and the nutritional boost is a welcome addition to any meal.”

In fact, one medium-size (5.3 ounce) potato has no fat, sodium or cholesterol, provides 45 percent of your daily value of vitamin C, and has more potassium than a banana. Plus, cooking potato side dishes on the grill helps to minimize clean-up, and doesn’t require the heat of an oven during the warmer months.

Visit www.potatogoodness.com to find more recipe ideas for putting potatoes on the grill, including a colorful Grilled Potato Bake which incorporates multiple potato types for a flavorful side dish. You can also sign-up to receive a new recipe in your email in-box each week.

Flame-Licked Fingerling Potatoes with Spud Rub

Created by The BBQ Queens for the U.S. Potato Board
Makes: 4 side dish servings

Spud Rub:

• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons lemon pepper
• 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
• 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Potatoes:

• 1 pound fingerling potato mix
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Spud Rub

1. For the rub, combine all ingredients in a glass jar, close the lid and shake to blend. Store at room temperature.
2. Prepare a medium-hot fire in your grill.
3. Place the potatoes in a bowl, drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle with Spud Rub. Toss to coat.
4. Place the potatoes on the grill rack or in grill basket directly over the heat and close the grill lid. After 3 to 4 minutes, open the lid and toss the potatoes or turn the basket. Close the lid again and repeat the process for 12 to 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Serving tip: Serve the grilled fingerlings on a platter alongside a bowl of Spud Rub Dip. To make Spud Rub Dip, combine 1/2 cup prepared buttermilk or ranch-style dressing and 1 teaspoon Spud Rub in small bowl. Stir to blend. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutritional information per serving: Calories: 110, Fat: 2.5g, Saturated Fat: 0g, Trans Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Sodium: 125mg, Carbohydrates: 20g, Fiber: 1g, Sugars: 0g, Protein: 3g, Vitamin A: 2%, Vitamin C: 40%, Calcium: 0%, Iron: 6%, Potassium: 6mg.

(Family Features) Holidays are a time filled with family, friends and — perhaps most importantly — feasts. Traditional holiday menu items have the power to evoke warm memories of holidays past while continuing to bring people together year after year. For many, the center of that coveted holiday table would not be complete without a sweet and savory spiral-sliced ham.

But what kind of holiday spread would it be without a plethora of delicious side dishes to accompany and complement the meal? Whether you prefer ham with notes of honey, nuts or fruit, make sure your dinner table boasts a variety of options that enhance its delectable flavor. Look for recipes that incorporate both traditional and unexpected ingredients for a holiday menu makeover. Doing so will keep guests pleased with familiar favorites, yet pleasantly surprised with the new variations.

Savory side selections
If you’re looking for a savory side that spotlights the distinct flavors of the season, butternut squash is an excellent choice. White Beans with Bacon and Butternut Squash is a perfect blend of savory, sweet and salty. Serve it alongside your favorite Smithfield ham — Honey, Caramel Apple or Pecan Praline glazed — for a true taste of tradition. For more great recipes, visit www.smithfield.com.

A potato dish is also a must for many holiday spreads. Break away from mundane mashed potatoes and gravy with this recipe for Smashed Bacon Ranch Potatoes. Family and friends will line up for seconds when they get a taste of the ranch dressing and smoky bacon combination. Or, try this recipe for Green Bean Corn Casserole for another new twist on a classic holiday favorite.

3 ways to make ham leftovers delectable

For many, the best part of the holiday meal awaits them in the fridge the next day. If you find yourself with a kitchen still stocked for a holiday feast, here are some easy ways to turn delicious ham into a flavorful meal with just a few extra ingredients:

Pizza: Nothing pleases a child — or a parent for that matter — more than pizza. Simply place marinara sauce, cheese and cubed ham atop broiled French bread or English muffins for a crunchy post-holiday lunch.
Pasta salad: Whip up a cool classic you can nibble on all week long. Prepare your favorite whole-wheat noodles, then mix in cubed ham, your favorite cheeses, diced tomatoes, spinach and a generous pour of creamy Italian dressing. It’s an easy meal in just minutes.
Sandwiches: Take standard ham and cheese sandwiches to new levels with uneaten goodies from your cheese platter. Fill leftover artisan rolls from your holiday fare with sliced ham. Experiment with your favorite cheeses — Gouda, Gruyere or Roquefort — and place on the grill for a gooey, crunchy bite.

Holiday Spiral Sliced Ham with Honey Glaze

Cook time: 10 to 12 minutes per pound
Yield: 14 servings

• 1 Smithfield Spiral Sliced Ham with Honey Glaze

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Remove packaging; reserve liquid. Place ham cut-side down on large sheet of foil in roasting pan, pour reserved liquid over ham and wrap completely with foil. Warm ham in oven for 10 to 12 minutes per pound. Do not overheat.
3. After removing from oven, let sit for 5 minutes before glazing. Heat glaze packet for 15 seconds in microwave. Glaze is hot, so be careful when opening packet. Holding packet with towel or oven mitt, cut corner off packet and pour glaze into bowl. Stir well and spoon over ham. Let glazed ham sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow glaze to melt over ham.

Smashed Bacon Ranch Potatoes

Cook time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

• 1 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• 4 to 6 slices Smithfield Naturally Hickory Smoked Bacon
• 1/4 cup bottled ranch dressing
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk or whole milk
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper

1. Cook potatoes in boiling, salted water until very tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain; return to saucepan and mash coarsely. Cook bacon in a large heavy skillet over medium heat until browned; drain and crumble. Pour off drippings from skillet, leaving clinging particles in skillet. Add potatoes, salad dressing, buttermilk and vinegar to skillet; stir until well blended. Cook, stirring constantly, until hot. Add salt and pepper to taste.

White Beans with Bacon and Butternut Squash

Cook time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 slices Smithfield bacon, chopped
• 1 pound diced butternut squash
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 2 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, stems removed and chopped

1. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add bacon to skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until crumbly; remove from skillet, drain on paper towels and reserve 2 tablespoons of drippings in skillet. Add butternut squash, onion, salt, pepper, nutmeg and curry powder to the skillet; saute for 5 minutes; add chicken broth to the skillet, reduce heat to medium low, cover and cook for 5 additional minutes or until butternut squash is tender. Add beans and spinach to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes or until all vegetables are heated through. Sprinkle with reserved bacon.

Green Bean Corn Casserole

Cook time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

• 1 bag frozen French-style green beans
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 can cream of celery soup
• 1 can corn, drained
• 1 green pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated (or more)
• 1 sleeve butter crackers, finely crushed
• 3 tablespoons melted butter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In large mixing bowl, combine first 7 ingredients and place in prepared 13-inch by 9-inch casserole dish. Combine crushed butter crackers and melted butter and spread over top of casserole. Bake for 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Note: Add 1 cup diced ham and 1 cup shredded cooked chicken to this recipe to make it a main dish.

Source: Smithfield

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(Family Features) Sweaters and scarves aren’t the only ways to brace yourself against blustery weather. There’s no time like winter to putter in the kitchen, where the cozy heat from the stove and the aromas of mouthwatering dishes can warm you from the inside out.

Rich, hearty stews and creamy casseroles are perfect for winter dinners, but when you’re craving something other than traditional comfort food, there are plenty of other options that will chase away the chill, such as a glass of Pinot Noir.

These three dishes feature common proteins – chicken, beef and fish – in preparations that make it easy to reimagine your winter weather menu. Find more recipes and ideas for warming up this winter at culinary.net.

Fruit Juice and Fish Fillets

The temperatures may be falling, but you can still fire up the grill and fill up your plate with a tasty recipe like this Grilled Citrus Rosemary Catfish, which combines sweet juices for a citrus sauce that coats grilled catfish. Find more main dish recipes including catfish at uscatfish.com.

Grilled Citrus Rosemary Catfish

Recipe courtesy of The Catfish Institute
Servings: 4

Citrus Sauce:

• 1 lime, juice and zest only
• 1 lemon, zest only
• 1 orange, zest only
• 6 ounces pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Catfish:

• 4 U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets
• 2 lemons
• salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1. Heat grill.
2. To make citrus sauce: In small saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients. Bring to boil; reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes.
3. To make catfish: Place catfish in shallow dish and squeeze 1/2 fresh lemon over each fillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let rest 5 minutes.
4. Grill catfish fillets, skin-side-up, 3-4 minutes. Flip over and grill 2-3 more minutes.
5. Transfer catfish to serving plates and spoon warmed citrus sauce over fillets.

A Cold-Weather Solution

While it can be a challenge, there are several ways to pair food and wine appropriately during winter, despite bitter weather. A warm, comforting dish, like Roasted Chicken with Salsa Verde from James Beard award-winning chef Jonathan Waxman, combines well with rosé during the cold season. One reasonably priced wine that matches chicken well is Angeline California Rosé of Pinot Noir. The crisp flavors of light red fruits combine with the herbs accompanying the chicken. It’ll also complement the many other flavors of winter, when an array of dishes hit the table and challenge hosts to find the right wine to serve.

For more wines that work well in wintertime, visit angelinewinery.com.

Chicken and Salsa Verde

Recipe courtesy of chef Jonathan Waxman

Chicken:

• 1 fresh free-range organic chicken (4 pounds)
• sea salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon

Salsa Verde:

• 1/4 cup capers in salt
• 4 anchovy filets
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup chopped arugula
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped tarragon
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
• 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1. To make chicken: Heat oven to 450° F.
2. Wash chicken in hot water. Dry with paper towels.
3. Using kitchen shears, cut out backbone of chicken and remove any fat (this can be added to chicken stock). Using heavy chef’s knife, cut out breastbone. Season halves with sea salt and black pepper.
4. Place chicken halves, skin side up, on two sizzle platters and dab with olive oil. Cut lemon in half and place 1 half, cut side down, next to chicken on each platter.
5. Roast chicken 35 minutes, basting every 10 minutes. When done, remove chicken to platter and pour off excess fat. Cut each breast in half and cut the thigh from the leg. Serve with salsa verde (recipe below) and garnish with roasted lemon.
6. To make salsa verde: Soak capers in cold water 1 hour then drain.
7. Soak anchovies in cold water 15 minutes then pat dry and remove bones.
8. Using mortar and pestle, smash capers, anchovies and garlic, until smooth, then transfer to large bowl.
9. Add all herbs and olive oil.
10. Season with sea salt.

Pair each serving with Angeline California Rosé of Pinot Noir.

Whole and Hearty

A hearty meat-and-potatoes meal is a sure way to warm up on a cold winter night. This heart-healthy, one-dish meal is made with lean top round beef, lots of vegetables and a spicy herb mixture. Find more healthy main dish ideas at health.gov.

Black Skillet Beef with Greens and Red Potatoes

Recipe courtesy of the USDA

• 1 pound top round beef
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon dry mustard
• nonstick spray
• 8 red-skinned potatoes, halved
• 3 cups onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 2 1/2-inch strips
• 2 bunches (1/2 pound each) mustard, kale or turnip greens, stems removed, coarsely torn

1. Partially freeze beef. Thinly slice across grain into strips 1/8-inch thick and 3 inches wide. Trim away visible fat.
2. Combine paprika, oregano, chili powder, garlic powder, black pepper, red pepper and dry mustard. Coat strips of meat with spice mixture.
3. Spray large, heavy skillet with nonstick spray. Heat pan over high heat.
4. Add meat; cook, stirring constantly, 5 minutes.
5. Add potatoes, onion, broth and garlic. Cook over medium heat, covered, 20 minutes.
6. Stir in carrots; lay greens over top and cook, covered, until carrots are tender, about 15 minutes.
7. Serve in large serving bowl with crusty bread for dunking.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (fish photo and beef stew photo)

Source: Culinary.net

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Endless possibilities with potatoes

(Family Features) Delicious and nutritious, it’s no wonder potatoes are a menu staple for many. Everyone craves meal variety, and potatoes offer a perfect canvas to inspire new flavor exploration so you can enjoy something different every day. From russets, reds, yellows, whites and purples to petites, fingerlings and more, there are multiple varieties to keep dishes interesting.

You might be used to preparing this kitchen staple mashed, baked or fried, but these inventive recipes show how easy it is to incorporate flavors and techniques to create new potato dishes for any meal of the day in 30 minutes or less.

Find more meal ideas featuring a variety of potato preparations at PotatoGoodness.com/explore.

Fiesta Potato Smashers

Yield: 8
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes

• 5 small yellow potatoes
• 5 small red potatoes or potato of your choice
• 1 pint sweet mini peppers (red, orange and yellow)
• cooking spray
• 4 tablespoons fat-free sour cream or fat-free Greek yogurt (optional)
• 8 sprigs cilantro, picked from stems
• salt, to taste
• chili powder, to taste
• freshly ground pepper, to taste

1. Place whole potatoes into microwave-safe, covered dish.
2. Microwave on high 3-4 minutes.
3. While potatoes are cooking, cut mini peppers into 1/4-inch slices. Spray nonstick pan with cooking spray and heat to medium. Add peppers and saute until they start to brown. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Remove potatoes from microwave and with layer of paper towels covering each potato, smash on cutting board until 1 3/4-inch thick.
5. Spray saute pan with cooking spray, heat on high and add smashed potatoes. Cook 1-2 minutes until potatoes start to brown.
6. On plate, place potatoes and layer with sour cream or yogurt, if desired, peppers and cilantro. Dust with salt, chili powder and pepper, to taste. Serve warm.

Nutritional information per serving: 50 calories; 350 mg sodium; 0.7% vitamin C; 1 g fiber; 1 g protein; 293 mg potassium.

Steak and Potato Tacos with Poblano Chiles

Yield: 12
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and sliced
• 12 ounces white potatoes, quartered lengthwise then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch thick slices
• 1 flank steak (12 ounces)
• garlic powder
• chili powder
• salt
• pepper
• 12 corn tortillas (6 inches each)
• chopped fresh cilantro
• pico de gallo salsa
• hot sauce

1. In heavy, large nonstick skillet, heat 1/2 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and chiles and saute until tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Transfer onion mixture to bowl. In same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add potatoes and saute until golden brown and tender, about 12 minutes. Return onion mixture to skillet with potatoes and keep warm.
3. Sprinkle both sides of steak generously with garlic powder, chili powder, salt and pepper. In heavy, large skillet, heat remaining oil over medium-high heat. Add steak and cook until browned on both sides, turning once, about 8 minutes total for medium-rare. Transfer steak to cutting board; let rest 5 minutes.
4. While steak rests, heat tortillas on griddle or over gas flame until warm, turning frequently with tongs.
5. Thinly slice steak. Top tortillas with steak and potato mixture; sprinkle with cilantro.
   Serve with pico de gallo and/or hot sauce.

Nutritional information per serving: 167.9 calories; 6.3 g fat; 13 mg cholesterol; 19.1 mg sodium; 6.8% vitamin C; 20.9 g carbohydrates; 2.5 g fiber; 7.1 g protein; 147.4 mg potassium.

Potato Prosciutto Waffles

Yield: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes

• 1/4 pound thinly sliced prosciutto
• 3 medium russet potatoes (or 3 cups mashed potatoes)
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional for salting water
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1. Heat oven to 400° F.
2. Line baking sheet with parchment paper and evenly lay prosciutto on paper. Bake 10-15 minutes until prosciutto is crispy. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
3. Peel and cube potatoes. Place in pot of salted water and bring to boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to rapid simmer and cook until potatoes are fork tender, about 10 minutes. Strain potatoes from water and transfer to large bowl. Mash potatoes with fork or potato masher.
4. Add milk, butter, eggs, cheese and thyme to potatoes. Stir to combine.
5. In separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt and pepper. Add to potato mixture and stir until just combined. Crumble prosciutto and fold it into batter.
6. Heat waffle iron. If required, grease with cooking spray.
7. Spoon about 1 cup batter onto waffle iron and cook according to iron’s instructions until waffles are golden, about 4 minutes. Keep waffles warm in 200 F oven until all waffles are cooked and ready to serve.
8. Serve with touch of butter, sour cream or poached or fried egg.

Nutritional information per serving: 332 calories; 16 g fat; 109 mg cholesterol; 1,138 mg sodium; 13% vitamin C; 32 g carbohydrates; 3 g fiber; 15 g protein; 653 mg potassium.

Source: Potatoes USA

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