Quick, Easy Recipes to Add to Your Dinner Rotation: Simple, nutritious meals to make more time for family
(Family Features) Making time for meals together can have a positive impact on the well-being of families, including children and adolescents. In fact, regular meals at home can help reduce stress and boost self-esteem, according to research published in “Canadian Family Physician.”
Mealtime conversations are also a perfect opportunity to connect with your loved ones. A study published in “New Directions for Child and Adolescent Development” showed these conversations help improve children’s vocabularies more than being read aloud to.
Making time for meals together shouldn’t require spending all night in the kitchen, however. A simple-to-prepare ingredient like eggs can help you spend less time cooking and more time with family.
For example, these heart-healthy recipes for Poached Egg Tostadas with Avocado-Tomatillo Salsa, Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs and Poblano Frittata from the Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best, are ready in 15 minutes or less. They include a wide variety of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and healthy protein sources, which are recommended by the American Heart Association to help prevent heart disease and stroke.
To find more tips for family mealtimes and recipe inspiration, visit heart.org/eatsmart.
Poached Egg Tostadas with Avocado-Tomatillo Salsa
Servings: 4 (1 egg and 1/2 cup salsa per serving)
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 4 corn tortillas (6 inches each)
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 4 large eggs
Salsa:
- 1 medium avocado, diced
- 1 medium Anaheim or poblano pepper, seeds and ribs discarded, diced
- 1 medium tomatillo, papery husk discarded, washed and diced
- 1/2 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 medium garlic clove, minced
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Preheat oven to 400 F. Line baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly spray foil with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange tortillas in single layer on foil. Lightly spray tortillas with nonstick cooking spray. Using fork, pierce tortillas to prevent from filling with air. Bake 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer to serving plates.
- In large skillet over high heat, bring water and vinegar to boil.
- Once water is boiling, reduce heat and simmer. Break egg into cup then carefully slip egg into simmering water. Repeat with remaining eggs, avoiding eggs touching in water. Simmer 3-5 minutes, or until egg whites are completely set and yolks are beginning to set but aren’t hard. Using slotted spoon, drain eggs. Place each egg on tostada.
- To make salsa: In medium bowl, gently stir together avocado, pepper, tomatillo, tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, garlic and salt. Serve with tostadas.
Nutritional information per serving: 185 calories; 11 g total fat; 2.5 g saturated fat; 3 g polyunsaturated fat; 5 g monounsaturated fat; 186 mg cholesterol; 169 mg sodium; 15 g carbohydrates; 3 g fiber; 2 g total sugars; 9 g protein.
Poblano Frittata
Servings: 4 (2 wedges per serving)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fat-free milk
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 medium poblano peppers, seeds and ribs discarded, chopped
- 2 cups frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed
- 2 medium green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup finely shredded Cotija cheese or crumbled queso fresco
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1/4 cup fat-free sour cream
- In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cilantro.
- In medium skillet over medium heat, heat oil, swirling to coat bottom of skillet. Cook poblano peppers 3 minutes, or until browning on edges, stirring frequently.
- Stir in corn and green onion. Reduce heat to medium-low and carefully pour in egg mixture. Cook, covered, 10 minutes, or until mixture is just set on edges and still soft in center. Avoid overcooking. Remove from heat.
- Sprinkle with cheese. Cut into eight wedges. Place two wedges on each plate. Top with tomatoes and sour cream.
Nutritional information per serving: 244 calories; 8.5 g total fat; 2.5 g saturated fat; 1.5 g polyunsaturated fat; 3 g monounsaturated fat; 192 mg cholesterol; 177 mg sodium; 27 g carbohydrates; 4 g fiber; 8 g total sugars; 13 g protein.
Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs
Servings: 4 (1 cup per serving)
- 2 teaspoons canola or corn oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 medium red or green bell pepper, chopped
- 2/3 cup fat-free, low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled
- 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- hot pepper sauce (optional)
- In pressure cooker set on saute, heat oil. Cook onion 3 minutes, or until soft, stirring frequently. Turn off pressure cooker.
- Stir in potatoes, bell pepper, broth, garlic, paprika, cumin, thyme, pepper and salt. Secure lid. Cook on high pressure 3 minutes. Quickly release pressure. Turn off pressure cooker.
- Remove pressure cooker lid. Crack one egg into small bowl. Using back of spoon, make small well in potatoes. Slip egg into well. Repeat with remaining eggs, making separate well for each egg. Secure lid with pressure vent open. Saute 2 minutes. Let stand on “keep warm” setting 2 minutes, or until eggs are cooked to desired consistency.
- Serve hash sprinkled with dash of hot pepper sauce, if desired.
Nutritional information per serving: 258 calories; 7.5 g total fat; 2 g saturated fat; 1.5 g polyunsaturated fat; 3 g monounsaturated fat; 186 mg cholesterol; 244 mg sodium; 39 g carbohydrates; 6 g fiber; 9 g total sugars; 10 g protein.
Source: American Heart Association
Serve Flavorful, Sustainable Seafood
(Family Features) Whether seafood night at your house means sauteed shrimp, baked fish or anything in between, it’s an exciting excuse to bring the family together for favorite meals. Delicious recipes abound when seafood is on the menu.
However, this is no longer your grandparents’ seafood. Today, more than half of all seafood consumed in the U.S. is farm-raised – a practice known as aquaculture. While the industry has made strides throughout the last few decades, from increasingly sustainable farming practices to technological advancements that can help feed a growing population, not all farmed seafood is equal and neither are the certifications you see on its packaging.
For more than a decade, the global nonprofit Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has created and enforced the world’s strictest standards for farmed seafood. Its sea green ASC certification label is only found on farmed seafood that meets these high standards – helping seafood shoppers make informed purchasing decisions.
It’s a movement some of the nation’s leading seafood grocers and chefs are getting behind.
“About 2/3 of our seafood offerings are raised on farms, which reflects both growing supply and demand,” said Abe Ng, CEO of the Sushi Maki restaurant chain and market stations. “There’s a much broader customer understanding and appreciation of aquaculture than, say, 10 years ago. However, not all farmed seafood is equal in terms of quality, environmental sustainability and social responsibility.”
A unique combination of standards help ensure supply chain integrity from the farm to the store while protecting the environment, workers and communities. ASC’s sea green label only appears on seafood from farms that have been independently assessed and certified as environmentally and socially responsible.
“Whether your seafood is wild-caught or farmed, what matters to today’s shoppers is that it’s high-quality, flavorful and was fished or farmed in a responsible way that’s good for you and the planet,” said Roger O’Brien, president and CEO of the Santa Monica Seafood market and cafe. “Farm-raised seafood that’s been responsibly certified by the ASC delivers on the assurance that the seafood you’re buying is what it claims to be, which is a key commitment we make to our customers.”
With a trusted certification like the ASC, you can confidently enjoy make-at-home recipes like Honey Mustard Crunch Salmon, Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Creole Remoulade Slaw and Almond Stuffed Rainbow Trout without sacrificing taste or sustainability.
To find more certification information and discover family-friendly seafood recipes, visit SeaGreenBeGreen.org.
Honey Mustard Crunch Salmon
Recipe courtesy of North Coast Seafoods
- 1 bag (1 pound, three 6-ounce portions) North Coast Seafoods ASC-certified Naked Norwegian Salmon
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
Honey Mustard Glaze:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons smooth Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons horseradish
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Crunch:
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Thaw salmon and pat dry. Arrange on oiled baking tray. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- To make glaze: In small bowl, combine honey, mustard, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, horseradish and paprika; mix until well combined. Chill glaze until ready to use.
- To make crunch: In bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parsley and oil; mix well. Reserve.
- Preheat oven to 400 F.
- Top each salmon portion with 1 tablespoon glaze and spread evenly over fish. Press crunch evenly onto glaze.
- Bake 15-17 minutes until fish is cooked through.
- Serve with drizzle of remaining glaze.
Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Creole Remoulade Slaw
Recipe courtesy of Coastal Seafoods and Fortune Fish & Gourmet
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Coleslaw:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon capers, chopped
- 1 teaspoon stone ground mustard
- 1/3 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon horseradish
- 1/3 cup red onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 bag coleslaw mix
Tacos:
- 6 small corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 pound peeled and deveined ASC-certified shrimp, thawed
- 3 green onions, sliced
- fresh salsa or pico de gallo (optional)
- 1 lime, sliced (optional)
- To make coleslaw: In bowl, mix mayonnaise, capers, mustard, parsley, horseradish, red onion and Cajun seasoning. Mix coleslaw and about 3/4 of dressing. Stir until coated then add more dressing, if desired. Refrigerate coleslaw until ready to serve.
- To make tacos: Heat grill to medium heat. Once hot, toast tortillas on each side until browned on edges. Stack toasted tortillas on plate and cover with towel until ready to serve.
- Pour Cajun seasoning over shrimp and stir until shrimp are coated.
- Cook shrimp 3-5 minutes per side, or until shrimp are firm and Cajun seasoning is blackened. Remove shrimp from grill to prevent overcooking.
- To serve, place about 1/4 cup coleslaw in each tortilla then top with 3-5 shrimp and green onions. Top with salsa or pico de gallo, if desired. Squeeze wedge of fresh lime over top, if desired.
Almond Stuffed Rainbow Trout
Recipe courtesy of Riverence Provisions
- 2 ASC-certified Riverence Steelhead Trout fillets (8 ounces each)
- nonstick cooking spray
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Italian parsley
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- kitchen twine (6-inch lengths)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Preheat oven to 350 F.
- Rinse steelhead trout fillets and pat dry with paper towel. Line baking pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Mix almonds, lemon zest, lemon juice, chives, breadcrumbs and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Add beaten egg to breadcrumb mixture and stir until well incorporated.
- Lay first trout fillet skin side down on baking pan. Place twine pieces underneath fish, spacing 1 1/2 inches apart; leave untied.
- Place breading mixture over trout fillet and remaining trout fillet on top of breadcrumb mixture, skin side up.
- Secure trout fillets together using kitchen twine. Brush olive oil on trout and sprinkle with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Bake 15-20 minutes, or until fish is cooked through. Slice into portions to serve.
Source: Aquaculture Stewardship Council
Breaking Better-for-You Bread: Quick and easy keto-friendly meal ideas
(Family Features) For many looking to make healthy dietary changes, weight loss is a primary concern. Because the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend 45-65% of daily calories come from carbohydrates, an eating plan like the ketogenic diet (or keto, for short), which involves consuming a low amount of carbs and replacing them with healthy fats, can be a popular choice for achieving weight loss goals.
Replacing carb intake with fat can put your body in a metabolic state called ketosis, which makes you more efficient at burning fat for energy. The keto diet can also help reduce blood sugar and insulin levels and lower risk for certain diseases.
Those following the keto eating plan typically significantly reduce or avoid consuming bread, pasta, rice and baked goods, which are all traditionally high in carbohydrates. However, Toufayan Bakeries introduced a line of keto-friendly wraps, pitas and flatbreads that are high in fiber and protein while containing no sugar and being lower in carbs than traditional bread.
“We take great pride in baking our family’s favorite breads for families across the U.S.,” said Karen Toufayan, VP of marketing for Toufayan. “Across the country, people following the keto diet have been missing their favorite bread products. We are thrilled to introduce Toufayan’s first line of keto-friendly breads and hope they love them as much as we do.”
Try serving these satisfyingly light solutions as the base ingredients in these delicious recipes for a Keto Egg and Sausage Flatbread or Keto Enchilada Quesadilla from chef George Duran.
Find more recipes to support a ketogenic eating plan at Toufayan.com.
Keto Enchilada Quesadilla
Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran
Yield: 1 quesadilla
- Rotisserie chicken, pulled and chopped
- enchilada Sauce
- olive oil
- Toufayan Bakeries Keto Wraps
- Tex-Mex cheese, grated
- jarred or fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced
- cilantro, chopped
- salsa, for serving
- In bowl, mix pulled chicken and enchilada sauce until fully covered. Set aside.
- Spray or brush olive on both sides of keto wrap and place on nonstick pan or skillet over medium heat. Once wrap is heated on one side, flip and heavily top entire wrap with grated cheese. Allow cheese to melt then disperse chicken mixture, sliced jalapenos and chopped cilantro on half of wrap. Fold wrap over ingredients and cook until quesadilla is golden brown on both sides.
- Cut into three triangles and serve with salsa.
Keto Egg and Sausage Flatbread
Yield: 1 flatbread
- 1 Toufayan Keto Flatbread
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cooked sausage links (approximately 2 ounces each), cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- Preheat oven to broil.
- On foil-lined baking sheet, place flatbread and top with mozzarella cheese; add sausage pieces and bell pepper.
- Crack egg in center of flatbread and broil 5-8 minutes, or until egg is cooked to desired firmness.
- Remove from oven and top with chives.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve.
Nutritional information per serving (1 flatbread): 435 calories; 29.1 g protein; 25.6 g fat; 8.6 net carbs.
Source: Toufayan
Healthy 7-Layer Taco Dip
(Family Features) Gathering for the big game is a source of annual excitement for fans across the country, but the moment is as much about connecting with family and friends as it is the action on the field. The superstar of the celebrations is often the food, from snacks and appetizers to full-blown meals and tasty sweets.
For a better-for-you way to grub out at gametime, this Healthy 7-Layer Taco Dip from Milk Means More features essential nutrients provided by yogurt so you can enjoy a football favorite that nourishes both the body and soul.
Find more game day recipes at MilkMeansMore.org.
Watch video to see how to make this recipe!
Healthy 7-Layer Taco Dip
Recipe courtesy of Liz Della Croce of “The Lemon Bowl” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12
- 1 can (15 ounces) fat-free, refried beans
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
- 2 avocados
- 1/2 cup cilantro, minced, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lime, juice only
- 1/2 cup scallions, minced
- 2 Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- tortilla chips
- In small bowl, mix refried beans and salsa. Spread mixture in thin layer on bottom of large platter.
- In separate small bowl, whisk yogurt, cumin, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt and cayenne, if desired. Spread mixture on top of bean layer.
- In third bowl, mash avocados with 1/4 cup cilantro, garlic powder, lime juice and remaining salt. Spread guacamole on top of yogurt layer.
- Sprinkle dip with minced scallions, diced tomatoes, black olives and remaining cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips.
Quick and Easy Dishes from Around the Globe
(Family Features) One of the best parts of traveling is trying the local cuisine, and that’s particularly true on an international scale. No matter where you go around the globe, however, there is one ingredient you’ll likely find is an integral part of many cultures and cuisines: rice.
Grown on almost every continent, this staple ingredient is a large part of meals around the world, which means there are nearly endless varieties and recipes to try. However, you don’t need to go on vacation to try authentic-tasting international food; easy-to-make versions of popular dishes from around the globe can be made right at home in mere minutes.
Mediterranean
Known for vibrant vegetables, savory sauces and incredible tastes, the Mediterranean is also home to a few classic rice dishes such as rich and creamy risotto from Italy. Other vibrant options include Spanish specialties like arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) and paella, which is made with an assortment of ingredients like seafood, spices and savory broth.
Asia
If you’ve ever been to an Asian restaurant, you’ll notice a large portion of the menu likely includes recipes made with rice. While it might be difficult to pinpoint where certain recipes originate, fried rice is a Chinese specialty. Over time, this delicious dish has made its way to many different countries and been reinvented with local ingredients. For example, this Kale and Kimchi “Fried” Rice is based on Korean cuisine and can be made in less than 5 minutes using Minute Jasmine Rice & Red Quinoa Cups, which combine the buttery taste and aromatic scent of authentic Jasmine rice with crunchy, 100% whole-grain red quinoa in a convenient, pre-portioned cup.
Middle East
Much like other cuisines around the world, Middle Eastern cooking uses rice almost every day. A Turkish and Arab mixed dish, shawarma is now a global street food. Traditional Persian rice uses a variety of spices like turmeric, ginger and cardamom with dried fruits and nuts.
Latin America
Latin American recipes vary from country to country and region to region, but rice is essential on the side or as part of the main dish across the board. A quick and easy morning meal, this Mexican Breakfast Scramble is ready in 4 minutes. Aiding the short prep time, Minute Jalapeno Rice Cups are ready in just 1 minute and can help spice up dishes with a tasty blend of onion, green peppers and jalapenos.
North America
With bold flavors, few things say southern comfort quite like Louisiana cooking. Bring the taste of New Orleans to your kitchen with rice-based dishes like gumbo or jambalaya, or by pairing rice with another popular Cajun pastime – a classic shrimp boil.
Find more quick and easy international recipe ideas at MinuteRice.com.
Kale and Kimchi "Fried" Rice
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1
- 1 Minute Jasmine Rice and Red Quinoa Cup
- 1 cup kale, chopped
- 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- Heat rice according to package directions.
- In medium microwave-safe bowl, combine kale, kimchi and soy sauce. Cover and microwave 1 minute.
- Add rice and egg; mix well to combine. Cover and microwave 30 seconds. Stir and serve.
Serving Suggestions: Drizzle with sesame oil. Add cooked shrimp.
Mexican Breakfast Scramble
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 2 minutes
Servings: 1
- 1 Minute Jalapeno Rice Cup
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons salsa
- 2 tablespoons queso fresco
- Heat rice according to package directions.
- In small microwave-safe dish, combine egg, salsa and rice.
- Microwave 1 minute. Stir in cheese; microwave 30 seconds.
Serving Suggestion: For meal to go, wrap scramble in warm tortilla.
Source: Minute Rice
Whipped Goat Cheese Salsa Dip
(Family Features) Pairing an easy, delicious appetizer with the perfect wine doesn’t have to be as difficult as it sounds. When you’re ready to elevate your home entertaining, turn to a simplistic recipe featuring fresh, bold flavors.
Developed by sommelier and founder of “The Lush Life,” Sarah Tracey, this Whipped Goat Cheese Salsa Dip is part of her “Dips and Sips” partnership with Fresh Cravings, makers of authentic-tasting chilled salsas offering a vibrant alternative to soft, dull blends of jarred salsa, flavor-filled hummus, plant-based vegan dips and veggie-packed creamy dips.
“When I entertain at home, I’m always looking for ways to impress my friends with fresh, creative bites I can pair with wine,” Tracey said. “My favorite hack is finding great products with high-quality ingredients then creating simple, elevated ways to serve them. The less time I spend in the kitchen, the more time I get to spend with my guests.”
Ready in just 15 minutes and paired with a rosé, this savory recipe provides an ideal way to satisfy guests without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, with goat cheese at the heart of the dip, it’s a delicious way to capitalize on trendy butter boards with an approachable main ingredient.
Visit FreshCravings.com to discover more entertaining-worthy recipes and pairing ideas.
Watch video to see how to make this recipe!
Whipped Goat Cheese Salsa Dip
Recipe courtesy of Sarah Tracey
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
- 1 goat cheese log (8 ounces), softened at room temperature
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh Cravings Chunky Salsa, Mild
- 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- crackers, chips or vegetables
- 19 Crimes Snoop Dogg Rosé
- In food processor or blender, blend goat cheese with sea salt and 2 tablespoons heavy cream. If mixture is too firm, add cream little by little while pulsing blender until light, fluffy consistency is reached.
- Spread whipped goat cheese into shallow serving dish or onto board.
- Top with salsa.
- Garnish with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve with crackers, chips or veggies. Pair with rosé.
Source: Fresh Cravings
Party-Worthy Wine Pairings Perfect for Easy Entertaining
(Family Features) Red or white, sweet or dry, wine lovers are often entertainers at heart. When inviting guests to share your personal favorites, nothing enhances a tasting get-together quite like complementary snack and wine pairings.
The next time you find a wine party on your schedule, consider these simple yet delicious recommendations from sommelier and founder of “The Lush Life,” Sarah Tracey, who partnered with Fresh Cravings to create “Dips and Sips.” Aimed at reinventing wine and cheese parties, the movement focuses on simplistic recipes, easy dip pairings and suggested wines.
“When I entertain at home, I’m always looking for ways to impress my friends with fresh, creative bites I can pair with wine,” Tracey said. “My favorite hack is finding great products with high-quality ingredients then creating simple, elevated ways to serve them. The less time I spend in the kitchen, the more time I get to spend with my guests.”
Tracey relies on the versatility of Fresh Cravings’ array of dip options and crowd-pleasing, bold flavors worth celebrating. With authentic-tasting chilled salsas offering a vibrant alternative to soft, dull blends of jarred salsa and flavor-filled hummus made with premium ingredients like Chilean Virgin Olive Oil, these dips elevate both traditional and reinvented recipes.
For example, Tracey’s recipes for Polenta Rounds with Pico de Gallo Salsa and Crab, Spiced Butternut Squash Naan Flatbreads, Cheesy Tortilla Cutouts with Salsa and Hummus-Stuffed Mushrooms offer flavorful, easy-to-make appetizers that can make entertaining easy and effortless. Plus, these crave-worthy morsels are just as tasty and approachable for guests choosing to skip the wine.
Find more recipe and pairing ideas perfect for enhancing your next party at FreshCravings.com.
Hummus-Stuffed Mushrooms
Recipe courtesy of Sarah Tracey
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
- Nonstick olive oil spray
- 16 ounces cremini mushrooms, stems removed and gills scooped out
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 1 container Fresh Cravings Classic Hummus
- 1 jar manzanilla olives stuffed with pimientos, cut in half
- 1 jar roasted red pepper strips
- Oregon Pinot Noir
- Preheat oven to 375 F. Prepare sheet pan with nonstick olive oil spray.
- Place mushroom caps on sheet pan, spray with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Roast 7-8 minutes then let mushrooms cool to room temperature.
- Fill each mushroom cap with hummus and top each with one olive slice.
- Thinly slice roasted red pepper strips and arrange around olive slices.
- Pair with lighter bodied pinot noir with cherry tones from Oregon.
Cheesy Tortilla Cutouts with Salsa
Recipe courtesy of Sarah Tracey
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 16 ounces pepper jack cheese, grated
- 1 can (4 ounces) green chiles, drained
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 container Fresh Cravings Restaurant Style Salsa, Medium
- New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
- Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare sheet pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place large flour tortilla on sheet pan. Top with handful of grated cheese.
- Sprinkle chiles on top of cheese layer. Add chopped cilantro. Sprinkle with additional cheese.
- Top with another tortilla. Bake until cheese is melted, about 10 minutes. Work in batches to make three sets of cheese-filled tortillas.
- Cut out desired shapes with cookie cutters.
- Serve with salsa and pair with sauvignon blanc from New Zealand with zest and zing.
Spiced Butternut Squash Naan Flatbreads
Recipe courtesy of Sarah Tracey
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
- 1 1/2 pounds butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 1 container Fresh Cravings Roasted Garlic Hummus
- 1 package mini naan dippers
- 1 bunch fresh rosemary, minced
- La Veielle Ferme Rosé
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Chop butternut squash into 1/2-inch chunks.
- Toss squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cumin and chili powder.
- Spread on sheet pan, sprinkle with salt and pepper, to taste, and roast until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Spread hummus on naan dippers and top each with squash and fresh rosemary.
- Pair with deeper, savory and earthy rosé.
Polenta Rounds with Pico de Gallo Salsa and Crab
Recipe courtesy of Sarah Tracey
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
- 1 tube (16 ounces) prepared polenta
- nonstick cooking spray
- salt, to taste
- 8 ounces jumbo lump crabmeat
- 1 container Fresh Cravings Pico de Gallo Salsa, Mild
- 1 bunch fresh mint, finely chopped
- Mateus Rosé
- Heat oven to 400 F.
- Slice polenta into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange on baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray and bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle with salt, to taste, and let cool.
- Combine jumbo lump crabmeat with salsa.
- Top each polenta round with crab salsa mixture.
- Garnish with finely chopped fresh mint and pair with vibrant, fruity rosé.
Source: Fresh Cravings
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
Host a Hall of Fame Homegate
(Family Features) From kickoff to the final whistle, taking your game day party to the next level starts with serving an all-star lineup of menu items. From starting-caliber appetizers to MVP-level main courses and a supporting cast of side dishes, dips like salsa and hummus can play the role of superstar when it comes to serving up game day grub.
One of the benefits of cheering on your favorite teams from the couch and bringing the tailgate to your literal home field is the availability of appliances you may not otherwise have access to at the stadium like the oven or air fryer. However, that doesn’t mean missing out on the action and being sidelined in the kitchen all game or that these recipes won’t travel to a tailgate.
With a flavor-packed, vibrant recipe, the lineup of Fresh Cravings Salsa offers a homemade-tasting alternative to softer, duller blends of jarred salsa. Made with high-quality ingredients like vine-ripened tomatoes, crisp vegetables, zesty peppers and spices, the salsas make a perfect addition to these recipes from celebrity chef and entertainer George Duran, author of “Take This Dish and Twist It” and host of Food Network’s “Ham on the Street” and TLC’s “Ultimate Cake Off.”
Kickoff your menu with an app like these Jalapeno Bacon and Salsa Biscuit Bites that meld together traditional tailgate tastes. Then put a Tex-Mex twist on a traditional favorite with this Enchilada Lasagna, perfect for feeding a crowd of hungry fans.
To round out the playbook, this Layered Mediterranean Hummus Salad can make for an accompaniment to a variety of main courses. The cucumbers, olives, cherry tomatoes and other veggies are balanced by the savory taste of Fresh Cravings Hummus. Made with a short list of high-quality ingredients like chickpeas, tahini and Chilean extra-virgin olive oil, it has a smooth, creamy mouthfeel.
Find more game-winning recipes made for homegating and tailgating at FreshCravings.com.
Layered Mediterranean Hummus Salad
Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran
Servings: 4-6
- 2 containers (10 ounces each) Fresh Cravings Hummus, any flavor
- 1 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, seeded and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup canned garbanzo beans, drained
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 lemon, juice only
- extra-virgin olive oil
- zaatar, for sprinkling (optional)
- pita bread or tortilla chips
- On bottom of large, flat serving dish or platter, use spoon to evenly spread hummus.
- Layer cucumbers, olives, garbanzo beans, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion and parsley throughout hummus. Squeeze lemon juice over top.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Zaatar, if desired. Serve immediately with pita bread or tortilla chips.
Enchilada Lasagna
Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran
Servings: 4-6
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped (1 cup)
- 1 deli roasted chicken, skin and bones removed, shredded
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken stock or broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 cups shredded Tex-Mex cheese blend
- 16 ounces Fresh Cravings Chunky Salsa, plus additional for serving
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- nonstick cooking spray
- 6 flour tortillas (9 inches each)
- 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Preheat oven to 350 F.
- In large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, 4-5 minutes.
- Add shredded chicken and stir in taco seasoning. Add chicken broth and bring to simmer, about 5 minutes.
- Add cream cheese, Tex-Mex cheese, salsa and cilantro. Stir until cream cheese is melted and simmer 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Spray square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place two tortillas in bottom of pan, folding over or trimming sides of tortillas to fit.
- Spoon half chicken mixture over tortillas. Repeat then place remaining tortillas over top. Mix crushed tortilla chips with cheddar cheese and sprinkle over top. Bake 30 minutes, or until lasagna is bubbling and lightly browned.
- Let stand 10 minutes then top with additional salsa before serving.
Jalapeno Bacon and Salsa Biscuit Bites
Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran
Yield: 16 biscuit bites
- 1 tube biscuit dough (8 biscuits total)
- 7 ounces grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup jarred jalapenos, chopped
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup Fresh Cravings Restaurant Style Salsa
- nonstick cooking spray
- Preheat air fryer to 350-360 F.
- Divide each biscuit in half by pulling apart in centers. Use hands to flatten each biscuit into circles. Set aside.
- In bowl, mix mozzarella cheese with chopped jalapenos, bacon and salsa.
- Add heaping spoonful into each flattened biscuit and pinch each together tightly to form balls. Top each with small amount of salsa mixture.
- Spray nonstick cooking spray in air fryer and, working in batches, cook biscuit bites 6-9 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
- Note: If air fryer access is unavailable, biscuit bites can be baked 8-10 minutes at 400 F in oven, or until golden brown.
Jalapeno Bacon and Salsa Biscuit Bites
(Family Features) Back and forth action for four quarters keeps fans on their feet, but a mouthwatering menu is what homegating and tailgating are truly all about. Keep your crowd energized by loading your game day playbook with recipes that are just as exciting as the game itself.
Meld together traditional tailgate tastes with these Jalapeno Bacon and Salsa Biscuit Bites from celebrity chef and entertainer George Duran, author of “Take This Dish and Twist It” and host of Food Network’s “Ham on the Street” and TLC’s “Ultimate Cake Off.” They’re perfect for serving during the pregame festivities to power up your fellow diehards or as a halftime snack to recharge for a second half surge.
Starring the vibrant flavor of Fresh Cravings Salsa and its homemade-tasting alternative to softer, duller blends of jarred salsa, this appetizer offers a savory solution you can enjoy all season long. Made with high-quality ingredients like vine-ripened tomatoes, crisp vegetables, zesty peppers and spices, the salsas make a perfect addition to a variety of recipes to take homegating to the next level.
Visit FreshCravings.com to find more homegate recipes worthy of the hall of fame.
Jalapeno Bacon and Salsa Biscuit Bites
Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran
Yield: 16 biscuit bites
- 1 tube biscuit dough (8 biscuits total)
- 7 ounces grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup jarred jalapenos, chopped
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup Fresh Cravings Restaurant Style Salsa
- nonstick cooking spray
- Preheat air fryer to 350-360 F.
- Divide each biscuit in half by pulling apart in centers. Use hands to flatten each biscuit into circles. Set aside.
- In bowl, mix mozzarella cheese with chopped jalapenos, bacon and salsa.
- Add heaping spoonful into each flattened biscuit and pinch each together tightly to form balls. Top each with small amount of salsa mixture.
- Spray nonstick cooking spray in air fryer and, working in batches, cook biscuit bites 6-9 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Note: If air fryer access is unavailable, biscuit bites can be baked 8-10 minutes at 400 F in oven, or until golden brown.
Source: Fresh Cravings