(Family Features) There’s perhaps no better occasion to show off your kitchen skills than Mother’s Day, a perfect opportunity to turn the tables on mom and let her relax while you handle cooking duties. A homemade breakfast – or better yet, letting her sleep in for brunch – is a sure way to win her over and show how much you care.

Show your delicate side by working up a batch of Apple Ricotta Crepes, which require a soft touch to cook the light, silky batter to golden perfection. This rendition of the beloved thin pancakes calls for a ricotta spread and apple-cinnamon topping for a delightful pairing of savory and sweet.

If a full Mother’s Day celebration is on the menu, something a bit heartier may be required. A frittata provides the best of both worlds, as it’s a filling meal that’s also easy to make – just let the oven do the work. This Apple, Tomato and Goat Cheese Frittata is no exception as it calls for a handful of everyday ingredients you can whisk together in a cinch. While it’s in the oven (about 30 minutes, give or take) you can put the finishing touches on your last-minute decorations and handwritten cards.

Special occasions with those you love can be uplifted with the aroma and flavor Envy Apples that offer an invitation to savor small moments around the table. Available at Whole Foods and other major grocery stores, the craveable texture and crunch of this leading apple variety provides balanced sweetness as the ultimate apple experience for Mother’s Day gatherings. Along with their delicious flavor, the flesh remains whiter longer, even after cutting, slicing, dicing or cubing, so that homemade meals look as good as they taste.

Visit EnvyApple.com to find more Mother’s Day brunch inspiration.

Apple Ricotta Crepes

Crepes:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1cup whole milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• butter, for cooking

Apple Topping:

• butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Envy Apples, sliced or cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• salt, to taste
• maple syrup

Ricotta Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 lemon, zest and juice only
• 2-3 tablespoons sugar, or to taste

1. To make crepes: In bowl, combine flour, sugar and salt. Add milk, eggs and vanilla then, using whisk, combine thoroughly. Mixture should be silky smooth. Refrigerate.
2. To make apple topping: In pan over medium heat, heat butter and brown sugar until bubbly and golden.
3. Add apples, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt, to taste; cook over medium-low heat until apples are soft. Turn off heat and finish with maple syrup.
4. To make ricotta filling: Combine ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice and sugar, mix well and set aside.
5. In nonstick pan over medium-low heat, melt small amount of butter.
6. Add one ladle crepe batter, cook until bubbles form, flip and cook until golden. Repeat with remaining batter. Stack crepes to keep warm and soft.
7. Spread ricotta mixture thinly onto crepes and fold into quarters. Top with apple mixture and serve.

Apple, Tomato and Goat Cheese Frittata

• 6 eggs
• 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 20 turns fresh cracked pepper
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 Envy Apple, small diced
• 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, hot pepper sauce, salt, pepper and milk until well combined.
3. Stir in apples, tomatoes, goat cheese and chives until well combined.
4. Using 1/3 measuring cup, spoon frittata mixture into oven-safe large skillet or 9-by-9-inch pan.
5. Bake 25-30 minutes, or until eggs are set.
6. Let cool slightly then serve.

Source: Envy Apples

(Family Features) From fajitas and tacos to everything in between, fueling your Cinco de Mayo fiesta starts with delicious food that brings everyone to the table. Traditional dishes and new twists on classics can be equally satisfying whether you’re feeding your nearest and dearest or hosting the entire neighborhood.

Start with these Vegan Apple and Black Bean Fajitas for a plant-forward spin on a popular dish that features sauteed apples, peppers, zucchini, jicama, onion and jalapeno. The craveable texture and crunch of Envy Apples – a leading apple variety available at Whole Foods and other major grocery stores – shine both in the mixture of sauteed produce and sliced raw into sticks for a crunchy finish with added sweetness. Plus, their flesh remains whiter longer, even after slicing, so this dish looks as good as it tastes.

For those seeking some added protein, turn to Crisp Apple Tacos featuring pork tenderloin topped with cabbage, apples, carrots and a honey-infused homemade dressing. Ideal for a crowd, you can split the sauteed tenderloin, sliced produce, dressing and other favorite toppings among serving bowls to let guests create their own Cinco-inspired masterpieces.

These moments among friends and family can be uplifted with the aroma and flavor of Envy Apples that offer an invitation to savor special occasions. Their balanced sweetness provides the ultimate apple experience from holidays and family gatherings to quiet evenings at home.

To find more recipes for family meals and beyond, visit EnvyApple.com.

Vegan Apple and Black Bean Fajitas

• 1 bell pepper, sliced, seeds removed
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 small jicama, sliced
• 3 Envy Apples, sliced
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 1 jalapeno, sliced, seeds removed
• 1 teaspoon garlic
• 1teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 sprigs fresh oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili pepper (optional)
• salt, to taste (optional)
• pepper, to taste (optional)
• 1 cup cooked black beans
• 1 lime
• 3 sprigs fresh cilantro
• 4 small flour tortillas

1. In skillet over high heat, saute bell pepper, zucchini, jicama and half the apple slices. Set aside.
2. In same hot skillet, saute onions, jalapenos and garlic until lightly caramelized. Combine with sauteed apple mixture. Season with cumin and oregano. Add chili powder and salt and pepper, to taste, if desired.
3. Add cooked black beans to saute mixture. Top with squeeze of lime. Garnish with cilantro and remaining raw apple slices.
4. Serve with tortillas.

Crisp Apple Tacos

• 1/2 pound pork tenderloin
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
• 1 teaspoon pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided
• 2 Envy Apples, divided
• 3 sprigs rosemary
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded green cabbage
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 12 soft taco shells
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

1. Cut pork crosswise into 1-inch medallions.
2. Coat pork medallions with olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper then add to saucepan over medium heat.
3. Slice half of one apple into thick wedges and add to saucepan. Slice remaining half into thin wedges and set aside.
4. Add rosemary to saucepan and heat 2-3 minutes. Flip pork and heat 2-3 minutes until pork is slightly golden and cooked through.
5. Let pork rest 3 minutes then slice into strips.
6. Thinly slice half of remaining apple into thin sticks around same size of shredded cabbage. Reserve remaining half.
7. In serving bowl, toss apple sticks, carrots, red cabbage and green cabbage.
8. In bowl, mix honey, mayonnaise, mustard and vinegar into dressing. Add additional salt and pepper, to taste.
9. Mix dressing and cabbage; refrigerate at least 1 hour prior to serving.
10. Cut remaining apple half into thin wedges.
11. Top taco shells with pork, slaw, sour cream and squeeze of lime juice. Top with apple wedges.

Source: Envy Apples

(Family Features) While meals savored with loved ones are intended to produce smiles and shared moments, the process of grocery shopping, planning and cooking has become a chore for many families. Take the first step toward bringing back the joy and magic of making your favorite foods with tools that do the work for you.

For example, the all-in-one Albertsons Meal Plans and Recipes tool allows you to focus on what you want to eat rather than what you need to buy as it empowers everyday home cooks to plan, shop and prepare personalized recipes based on dietary preferences, allergies or family likes and dislikes. The app features a library of 9,000 exclusive recipes created by professional chefs (with new recipes added each month) and includes tasty dishes such as Sheet Pan Cajun Shrimp Fajitas with Bell Pepper, Onion and Spicy Ranch; Cheese Tortellini and Cauliflower with Creamy Spinach Marinara; and Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Green Beans and Honey Mustard Dip.

The free digital tool also includes an artificial intelligence-powered “Scan Your Own Recipe” feature that allows you to snap a photo with your phone of grandma’s handwritten, not-so-secret recipe and transforms it into a digital version saved in the app. Recipes are instantly turned into shoppable ingredients and added to your cart for quick, convenient checkout. Now, you can turn all of your recipes into a digital library for quick and easy access in one place. No more flipping through cookbooks or recipe cards searching for your favorites.

Designed to provide culinary inspiration throughout the week while saving time and money, the app also features a budget tracker and hands-free cooking mode with a step-by-step timer.

“The Albertsons Meal Plans tool is the ultimate life hack,” said Jill Pavlovich, senior vice president of digital customer experience for Albertsons Cos. “This all-in-one app makes it simple for anyone to plan, shop and prepare inspiring recipes from anywhere – whether it is an old family favorite, a best-seller from a favorite food blogger or one of our 9,000 delicious recipes. Best of all, it’s completely free to use on our grocery app and website.”

The tool is available on the store apps and websites across the Albertsons Cos. banner of stores including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen, Carrs, Kings Food Markets and Balducci’s Food Lovers Market.

Find more information and a seemingly endless collection of recipes at Albertsons.com.

Sheet Pan Cajun Shrimp Fajitas with Bell Pepper, Onion and Spicy Ranch

Recipe courtesy of Albertsons
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

• 2 green bell peppers
• 2 yellow bell peppers
• 1 lime
• 1 medium red onion
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds raw, peeled shrimp, fresh or frozen
• 5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2cup ranch dressing
• 12 small flour tortillas

1. Preheat oven to 450 F.
2. Wash and dry green bell peppers, yellow bell peppers and lime.
3. Trim, seed and slice bell peppers lengthwise into thin strips; transfer to large baking sheet.
4. Peel, halve and slice onion lengthwise into thin pieces; add to baking sheet with bell peppers.
5. Drizzle veggies with oil, toss to combine and spread in even layer. Bake until veggies have softened slightly, about 5 minutes.
6. If using frozen shrimp, place them in colander and run under cold water to thaw slightly. Place shrimp on clean towel or paper towels and pat dry.
7. Remove baking sheet from oven. Arrange shrimp over veggies then sprinkle with 4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning and salt; toss to combine and spread in even layer.
8. Bake until veggies are tender and shrimp are cooked through, 5-7 minutes. Remove from oven.
9. Cut lime into wedges.
10. In small bowl, stir ranch dressing and remaining Cajun seasoning.
11. Warm tortillas in skillet, oven or microwave, if desired.
12. Divide tortillas between plates and fill with shrimp and veggies; drizzle with spicy ranch and serve with squeeze of lime.

Cheese Tortellini and Cauliflower with Creamy Spinach Marinara

Recipe courtesy of Albertsons
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• 2 bags (10 ounces each) cauliflower florets
• 18 ounces cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 8 fluid ounces heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 teaspoon basil, dried
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 packages (5 ounces each) baby spinach

1. Fill large pot halfway with hot water, cover and bring to boil. Uncover then add cauliflower, tortellini and salt; stir for a few seconds. Cook, stirring occasionally, until just tender, about 5 minutes, or cook according to package instructions.
2. In separate large pot over medium heat, stir marinara sauce, cream, basil and black pepper to combine and bring sauce to simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to medium-low and cook until slightly thickened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Wash and dry spinach.
4. When sauce has thickened, add spinach to pot in handfuls, waiting for spinach to wilt slightly before adding next handful. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
5. When cauliflower and tortellini are done, drain and add to pot with creamy marinara sauce; stir to combine.
6. To serve, divide pasta between plates or bowls.

Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Green Beans and Honey Mustard Dip

Recipe courtesy of Albertsons
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 pounds green beans
• 1/2 cup honey mustard dressing

1. Preheat oven to 450 F. Coat baking sheet with 2 teaspoons oil.
2. In medium bowl, stir mayo, garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt to combine.
3. In separate medium bowl, stir Parmesan, breadcrumbs and paprika to combine.
4. Pat chicken dry with paper towels and slice into 3/4-inch tenders. Add to bowl with mayo mixture and toss to coat.
5. Working in batches, dredge tenders in breadcrumb coating, pressing to adhere. Transfer to baking sheet.
6. Bake until tenders start to turn golden, about 10 minutes.
7. On clean cutting board, wash, dry and trim green beans. Set aside.
8. When chicken is golden, flip and bake until cooked through, 6-8 minutes. Remove from oven.
9. Preheat large skillet over medium-high heat.
10. Add remaining oil and swirl to coat bottom. Add green beans and remaining salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp, 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
11. Divide chicken tenders and green beans between plates. Serve with dressing for dipping.

Source: Albertsons

(Family Features) Letting in a little fresh air with an open window or a screen door is a sure sign of spring, allowing the natural sights and smells of the outdoors to accompany you at the dinner table. Take that open-air freshness to new heights this spring by pairing it with your own signature spins on salad season.

For example, this Tuna and Rice Nicoise Salad offers a new take on tuna salad with olive tapenade, capers, tomatoes, green beans and cherry tomatoes. Its calling card: swapping out potatoes in favor of Minute Yellow Rice Cups, which cook up fast as a convenient and flavorful alternative that saves the chore of washing, peeling and boiling potatoes. Fully cooked and packaged in BPA-free cups, it features white rice lightly seasoned with onion powder, garlic powder and turmeric for a delightful taste ready in just 1 minute.

As a perfect recipe for those who love veggies, this dish combines classic salad freshness with olive tapenade for a briny bite in every mouthful. Canned tuna mixes with bursts of capers, hard-boiled egg, crisp green beans and sweet cherry tomatoes capped off with tart balsamic dressing to round out the dish.

If you love the taste of crisp, peppery arugula, this Pomegranate and Arugula Rice Salad is practically perfect. Your favorite green shines alongside a delicious mix of sweet pomegranate seeds, crisp almonds and tart balsamic dressing that’s ideal for a starter or side, or you can add a preferred protein to turn it into a satisfying main course.

Incredibly colorful with a lively taste, bright flavors mingle with fluffy grains of Minute Instant Jasmine Rice, ready in just 5 minutes to keep your dinner schedule on track. Aromatic white rice provides a distinct scent, perfect texture and delicious taste that’s fast, fragrant, flavorful and fluffy. It’s simply precooked then dried with nothing added but convenience to help you get tasty meals on the table quickly.

Requiring just 15 minutes to prepare, this salad is ready in an instant and serves up to eight people, making it a solution for anything from family gatherings to meal prepping for a busy week ahead.

Find more spring salads and other flavorful, convenient recipes by visiting MinuteRice.com.

Tuna and Rice Nicoise Salad

Prep time: 4 minutes
Cook time: 1 minute
Servings: 1

• 1 cup Minute Yellow Rice Cups
• 2 tablespoons balsamic dressing
• 2 tablespoons olive tapenade
• 1 teaspoon capers, drained well
• 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup frozen green beans, thawed
• 1 can (3 ounces) tuna, drained and flaked
• 1 hard-boiled egg, cut into wedges

1. Heat rice according to package directions.
2. In medium bowl, combine rice, balsamic dressing, tapenade and capers. Mix well.
3. Top with cherry tomatoes, green beans, tuna and hard-boiled egg.
4. Tip: Serve salad over bed of mixed greens, if desired.

Pomegranate and Arugula Rice Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8

• 2 cups Minute Instant Jasmine Rice
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons minced red onion
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bag (5 ounces) arugula
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/3 cup slivered almonds, toasted

1. Prepare rice according to package directions. Cool completely, about 10 minutes.
2. In large bowl, whisk oil, vinegar, red onion, mustard, honey, salt and pepper.
3. Add rice, arugula and pomegranate seeds to bowl; toss to coat thoroughly. Sprinkle with almonds.

Tips: For added flavor, top salad with crumbled goat or blue cheese.

To cool rice quickly, spread evenly on parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

 Source: Minute Rice

(Family Features) Celebration-worthy treats are perfect ways to cap off days spent with those you love, whether there’s a special occasion or you’re simply looking for creative ways to share more moments together. As a beloved staple in American households for generations, pie provides a sweet, delicious way to bring family and friends to the table.

By bringing some of the most popular pie flavors together, the Tart Cherry Unity Pie offers the familiar, distinct sweet-tart flavor of Montmorency tart cherries that pair well with pecans, apple and pumpkin pie spice for a sense of nostalgia representative of family, tradition and celebration.

In this unique recipe, the bold and vibrant flavors of tart cherries take center stage, complemented by the subtle sweetness of apples and crunch of pecans. With their burst of brightness and acidity, tart cherries perfectly balance the other flavors to create a pie fit for any occasion.

U.S.-grown tart cherries are a particularly versatile ingredient that makes them an ideal partner for other beloved ingredients and flavors. In fact, as the demand for sour, less sweet food and beverages continues to gain momentum, they provide a multi-faceted, sweet-tart profile for favorite foods and drinks. While tart cherries are increasingly featured in a wide array of recipes, they remain a favorite ingredient in confectionary items and baked goods like pies.

Slow down your fast-paced world and savor a slice of this timeless dessert alongside loved ones for a moment of respite. With its sweet and tangy filling, flaky crust and tart cherry topping, you can indulge in life’s simple pleasures for a sense of coziness and comfort.

Visit ChooseCherries.com to find more celebration-worthy tart cherry desserts.

Tart Cherry Unity Pie

Recipe courtesy of the U.S. Tart Cherry Industry
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8

Pie:

• 1 pie crust (9 inches)
• 2 cups canned tart cherry pie filling
• 2 cups canned apple pie filling
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Streusel:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 pinch salt
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. Fit pie crust to 9-inch pie dish. Crimp edges and use fork to poke holes in bottom. Place pie crust in freezer to chill.
3. In large bowl, combine tart cherry pie filling and apple pie filling. Set aside.
4. To make streusel: In bowl, use fork to mix flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pecans and salt. Pour butter over dry ingredients and mix until ingredients come together in clumps.
5. To assemble pie: Pour cherry-apple filling into prepared pie crust and sprinkle streusel on top. Brush beaten egg onto exposed pie crust edges.
6. Bake 25 minutes. At 10-minute mark, cover pie dish with foil to prevent crust from over-browning. After 25 minutes, lower oven temperature to 375 F and bake 30 minutes.
7. To make pumpkin spice whipped cream: In large bowl or bowl of stand mixer, add heavy cream, powdered sugar and pumpkin spice. Use hand mixer or beater attachment on stand mixer to beat on medium-high speed 3-5 minutes until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate whipped cream until ready to serve.
8. Let pie cool 2-3 hours then dollop pumpkin spice whipped cream on top, slice and serve.
9. Substitution: Storebought whipped cream topped with pumpkin spice can be used in place of homemade pumpkin spice whipped cream.

Source: Cherry Industry Administrative Board

(Family Features) Breezy spring days can lead you on nearly any adventure, and they can happen in your own backyard, on a short road trip or during a full-blown beach vacation. No matter where you are when those warmer days arrive, you can put outdoor meals on the menu and take advantage of perfect opportunities for fresh brunch spreads to share with loved ones.

Whether you’re enjoying spring sunshine at home or traveling with friends and family, Florida Orange Juice can be a delicious, nutritious addition to your outdoor plans. By delivering a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that have associated health benefits, it’s perfect for supporting healthy immune systems and overall health.

With no added sugar, 100% orange juice comes coupled with essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, folate and thiamin. Orange juice is one of nature’s nutrient-rich foods, and it can serve as a substitution for sugar-sweetened beverages in the diets of both children and adults while providing a convenient way to complement whole fruit intake to help reach one’s daily fruit intake recommendations. 

As an ultimate go-to beverage and ingredient, Florida Orange Juice is convenient and versatile for use in breakfast recipes like these Orange Juice Biscuits or cocktails such as Orange Juice Spicy Margaritas. These naturally sweet, tasty recipes make for ideal additions to brunch menus all spring long.

“Families across the country are planning spring vacations and springtime brunches, so it’s an important time to think about wellness and immune health,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “As the ultimate drink for spring, 100% orange juice is a healthy option while on the go and it’s easy to add into almost any recipe. It’s rich in vitamin C and includes other nutrients like potassium, folate and thiamin, making it a great choice for overall wellness.”

To find more ways to enhance spring brunches, visit FloridaJuice.com.

Orange Juice Biscuits

Orange Butter Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups Florida Orange Juice
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Orange Biscuits:

• 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
• 2 cups bleached all-purpose flour, plus additional for kneading
• 1 2/3 tablespoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup Florida Orange Juice

1. To make orange butter sauce: Boil orange juice 5 minutes, or until reduced by half. Add butter and stir until melted. Remove from heat.
2. To make orange biscuits: Preheat oven to 425 F.
3. Use fingers to rub sugar and zest together until sugar is moistened and looks like wet sand.
4. In large bowl, whisk orange sugar, 2 cups flour, baking powder and salt. Using two forks or pastry blender, cut in shortening to size of small peas.
5. Combine milk and orange juice then stir into flour mixture to make sticky dough.
6. Turn out dough onto well-floured work surface. Sprinkle top with flour and knead about six times while folding dough over in half and using more flour as needed.
7. Pat dough out to 3/4-inch thickness. Cut out biscuits with round cutter by dipping cutter in flour then pressing into dough. Do not turn cutter while pressing.
8. Place biscuits close together but not touching on baking sheet.
9. Gather dough scraps and fold 2-3 times, pat out again and cut biscuits. Repeat until dough is used.
10. Brush tops with orange butter sauce. Bake 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
11. Serve warm or at room temperature with remaining sauce.

Orange Juice Spicy Margaritas

• 2 cups Florida Orange Juice
• ice
• 2 cups simple syrup
• 8 ounces silver tequila
• 2 ounces triple sec or orange liqueur
• 2 ounces lime juice
• 4 ounces seltzer
• ghost pepper salt, to taste
• 4 Florida Orange slices, 1/4-inch thick

1. In saucepan over medium heat, reduce orange juice to 1 cup and allow to cool.
2. Fill cocktail shaker 3/4 full with ice. Add orange juice reduction, simple syrup, tequila, triple sec and lime juice.
3. Shake and pour into four glasses. Top each glass with 1 ounce seltzer.
4. Pour ghost pepper salt onto saucer and dip edges of orange slices in ghost pepper salt. Place orange slices on rim of each glass, if desired.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

(Family Features) Even if Easter hosting duties fell on your plate this year and added one more thing to your holiday to-do list, that doesn’t mean it has to be difficult. After all, Easter is a time meant for fun and fellowship with the food just one part of the celebration.

Building the menu around simple, one-pan dishes can keep the focus where it needs to be: spending time and creating memories with family and friends. These dishes call for short lists of ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry, and simple preparation to create a full spread perfect for sharing with loved ones. Plus, using only one pan makes cleanup a breeze, so you can get back to the festivities quickly.

A dish like this Easter Roast lets you check both the main course and side dishes off your list, relying on the oven to do most of the work for you after some quick prep work. Similarly easy to prepare, these Refrigerator Rolls can also be made up to six days in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to bake – a perfect complement to the savory roast and veggies.

Finish off your feast with an adaptable dessert like this Blueberry Crumble. Made using just five ingredients and ready in about an hour, you can swap the blueberry pie filling and yellow cake mix for any combination that suits your guests’ tastes like apple pie filling with spice cake or cherry pie filling with chocolate cake; the sky’s the limit when it comes to satisfying that sweet tooth.

For more Easter recipe inspiration, visit Culinary.net.

Easter Roast

Yield: 1 roast

• Salt
• pepper
• garlic powder
• 1 roast (3 pounds)
• 1 bag (1 pound) baby carrots
• 1 bag (1 1/2 pounds) trio potatoes or potato of choice
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 can (10 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 tablespoon garlic pepper
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 1 bundle asparagus

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Sprinkle salt, pepper and garlic powder over roast and rub into front, back and sides. Place seasoned roast in middle of large roasting pan.
3. Place carrots on one side of roasting pan and potatoes on other side.
4. In large bowl, mix beef broth and cream of mushroom soup with garlic pepper. Pour mixture over roast, potatoes and carrots. Sprinkle brown sugar over carrots and add chopped onion. Cover and cook 2 1/2 hours then remove from oven, add asparagus and cook uncovered 30 minutes.
5. Serve from pan or place on platter for more formal presentation.

Refrigerator Rolls

Yield: 18 rolls

• 2 packages yeast
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 cups lukewarm water
• 6-7cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 stick softened butter
• oil, divided

1. In large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in lukewarm water. When yeast is foamy, add 3 cups flour. Mix in salt, eggs and butter.
2. Once mixed well, add remaining flour 1 cup at a time and knead dough into ball in bowl. Remove dough from bowl and place on clean surface.
3. Wash and dry bowl then grease with drizzle of oil. Place dough in bowl and let rise 1 hour or store in refrigerator if making in advance.
4. When ready to use, grease muffin pan with oil. Roll dough into hand-size balls and place in each muffin hole; cover 1 hour.
5. Heat oven to 350 F. Bake rolls 30 minutes.
6. Note: Dough can be made in advance and stored in refrigerator up to six days. If making ahead, punch down dough, cover and place in refrigerator. Punch down daily until ready to use.

Blueberry Crumble

Yield: 1 cake

• 1 can blueberry pie filling
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 bag (4 ounces) chopped pecans
• 1 stick butter, melted
• 1/4 cup oil
• whipped cream, for serving (optional)
• vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Spread pie filling on bottom of 9-by-11-inch pan. Sprinkle cake mix and pecans on top. Do not mix.
3. Drizzle melted butter and oil on top of cake mix and pecans. Do not mix. Lift pan and tilt from side to side until cake mix is completely covered in butter.
4. Bake 1 hour until golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) For many, enjoying a small indulgence can serve as a reward for a job well done or a mood-boosting pick-me-up. In fact, mindful snacking is on-trend for a majority of consumers.

According to Mondelez International’s Fourth Annual State of Snacking Global Consumer Trends Study, 78% are choosing small indulgences to pamper themselves and 68% are checking nutrition labels on snacks.

With today’s changing palates and the growing demand for sour, less sweet foods and beverages, a superfruit like tart cherries can help snackers permissibly indulge without the guilt. Primarily grown on small family farms in the United States, Montmorency tart cherries – also referred to as sour cherries – are available year-round in dried, juice and juice concentrate, canned and frozen forms.

More than 110 scientific research studies show Montmorency tart cherries are a superfruit. In addition to their sweet-sour taste and unique nutrient profile, research suggests tart cherries – one of the few natural food sources of melatonin – may help improve sleep, aid in exercise recovery, reduce inflammation, ease arthritis symptoms, improve gut health and promote heart health. In fact, in one study published in the “European Journal of Nutrition,” adults who drank Montmorency tart cherry juice slept about 40 minutes longer on average and had up to a 6% increase in sleep efficiency.

While increasingly featured in functional beverages and health-positioned foods, tart cherries can also add drool-worthy flavor to superfruit-infused snacks, such as these Tart Cherry Superfood Banana Splits and Tart Cherry Brownie Bites. Plus, using tart cherries as a favorite ingredient in recipes like these adds a health halo to sweets – reinforcing the trend of permissible indulgences.

As an ideal superfruit snack that makes snacking more satisfying, tart cherries provide delicious flavor and potential health benefits in these recipes and beyond so you can savor the moment and cherish every bite.

Find more tart cherry snack recipes at ChooseCherries.com.

Tart Cherry Superfood Banana Splits

Recipe courtesy of Hannah Zimmerman of Bite Sized Studio on behalf of the U.S. Tart Cherry Industry
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 2 cups tart cherry juice
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup granola
• 1/4 cup dried tart cherries
• 1/2 cup frozen tart cherries, thawed

1. Place chocolate chips in bowl.
2. In saucepan over medium heat, bring tart cherry juice to simmer about 20 minutes until reduced to 2/3 cup.
3. Pour juice into bowl and mix until chocolate chips are melted and sauce is smooth.
4. Cut bananas in half lengthwise and place on two plates. Spoon 1/2 cup Greek yogurt on each banana then drizzle with 2 tablespoons almond butter and 2 tablespoons tart cherry chocolate sauce.
5. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons granola, 2 tablespoons dried tart cherries and 1/4 cup thawed frozen tart cherries on top of each banana split.

Note: Leftover tart cherry chocolate sauce can be stored in airtight container in refrigerator for later use.

Tart Cherry Brownie Bites

Recipe courtesy of Hannah Zimmerman of Bite Sized Studio on behalf of the U.S. Tart Cherry Industry
Prep time: 10 minutes
Yield: 12 bites

• 10 medjool dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup dried tart cherries
• 1/4 cup walnuts
• 2 tablespoons rolled oats
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon chia or hemp seeds (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons peanut or almond butter
• 4 tablespoons tart cherry juice
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• cocoa powder (optional)
• melted chocolate (optional)

1. In bowl of food processor, combine dates; dried tart cherries; walnuts; oats; cocoa powder; seeds, if desired; salt; and nut butter. Pulse 30-60 seconds until ingredients are ground into tiny pieces.
2. Add tart cherry juice in 1 tablespoon additions, pulsing mixture after each addition, until crumbly dough forms.
3. Transfer dough to bowl and fold in chocolate chips.
4. Roll dough into 12 balls. Serve plain or finish balls with dusting of cocoa powder or drizzle of melted chocolate, if desired.

Source: Cherry Marketing Institute

(Family Features) If your goals for 2024 include a healthier lifestyle and added nutrition, your mission is likely to start with a refreshed menu. Add a few newfound favorites to this year’s rotation like wraps, salads and smoothies to power each day and propel yourself toward wellness success.

These easy-to-make, better-for-you recipes offer simple solutions to keep your goals on track without taking flavor off the table. Begin busy days with an energy boost from a Strawberry Oatmeal Smoothie then tackle lunchtime cravings or make family dinner a cinch with BLT Wraps with Avocado Spread. For a hearty salad to pair with favorite meals or enjoy all on its own, this Roasted Cauliflower and Potato Spinach Salad is an ideal way to make 2024 your best year yet.

Visit Culinary.net to discover more nutritious solutions in the new year.

Wrap Your Way to a Nutritious Year

Planning and executing a more nutritious menu can often be thwarted by lunchtime cravings or busy weeknights that leave little time to cook at home. Rather than giving in to those takeout temptations, turn to easy recipes you can create yourself with just a few simple, on-hand ingredients.

Grab tortillas out of the pantry and a few favorites from the refrigerator to make these BLT Wraps with Avocado Spread, which are perfect for meal-prepping weekday lunches or whipping up at a moment’s notice for a family dinner. Bacon, a nearly unanimous favorite, teams up with a homemade avocado spread, lettuce and tomatoes for fresh taste without the hassle.

For a satisfying meal without leaving behind health goals, serve with a hearty salad or Spanish rice and banana peppers on the side.

BLT Wraps with Avocado Spread

Servings: 4

• 8 slices bacon
• 1 avocado, peeled and pitted
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 lime, juice only
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 flour tortillas
• 4 large red leaf lettuce leaves
• 2 large tomatoes, cut into 1/4-inch slices
• Spanish rice (optional)
• banana peppers (optional)

1. In large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Drain on plate lined with paper towels. Set aside.
2. In medium bowl, mash avocado, sour cream, lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce and salt with fork until combined and smooth.
3. Spread thin layer of avocado mixture over tortillas. Layer with lettuce leaves, tomatoes and bacon. Fold sides up and roll.
4. Serve with Spanish rice and banana peppers, if desired.

Fresh Flavors for the New Year

If you’re among those looking to set goals and wellness intentions for the new year, it’s important to equip yourself with the right tools, whether information or inspiration, to help support you on your journey toward a healthier lifestyle. That can start with something as easy as elevating your menu and the ingredients you keep on-hand.

For example, Fresh Express offers more than 100 varieties of fresh, healthy and convenient ready-to-eat salads, including the French Blue Cheese Salad Kit, which combines a nutrient-dense salad mix of fresh baby spinach, spring mix, red cabbage and carrots, and is enhanced with aromatic blue cheese, crunchy garlic brioche croutons and a savory French blue cheese dressing. Available in the refrigerated produce department, the kit can be paired with better-for-you ingredients like roasted cauliflower and seasoned potatoes to make this Roasted Cauliflower and Potato Spinach Salad in less than an hour.

Visit freshexpress.com to discover more recipes and find a store near you.

Roasted Cauliflower and Potato Spinach Salad

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1 small head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 pound fingerling potatoes, quartered
• 1 package (8 ounces) Fresh Express French Blue Cheese Salad Kit

1. Heat oven to 425 F.
2. In large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and 1/4 teaspoon salt; mix well. Arrange in single layer on sheet pan.
3. Bake cauliflower 30-40 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until tender and lightly charred. Cool.
4. In bowl, toss potatoes with remaining olive oil. Sprinkle with remaining Italian seasoning and salt; mix well. Arrange in single layer on sheet pan.
5. Bake potatoes 20 minutes until tender and lightly browned. Cool.
6. Place greens from salad kit in large bowl; add roasted vegetables. Drizzle with dressing from salad kit; mix well. Top with croutons and blue cheese from salad kit.

Start Each Day Strong

Giving your mornings a delicious boost doesn't have to be a chore. In fact, it can be just as easy as it is delicious with a fresh, fruity smoothie ready in a matter of minutes.

Just six blended ingredients are all you need to make this Strawberry Oatmeal Smoothie, a creamy solution that makes for a nutritious, refreshing and filling breakfast before heading out the door.

Strawberry Oatmeal Smoothie

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 banana
• 14 frozen strawberries
• 1 cup soy milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. In blender, grind oats. Add banana, strawberries, soy milk, sugar and vanilla extract then blend until smooth. Pour into glass or to-go container and serve.

Source: Fresh Express

(Family Features) Family reunions, birthday celebrations and holiday gatherings all bring loved ones together for special occasions that call for delicious meals and snacks. To help elevate entertaining in your household, make hosting a cinch with quick, shareable recipes.

Pizza, for example, is a nearly universally beloved dish ideal for sharing. This version is simple, fresh and perfect for entertaining guests or just for a night in with fresh mozzarella, Prosciutto di Parma and fresh basil.

For savory seasonal flavor, look no further than Sweet Potato Rounds topped with fried sage leaves, goat cheese and prosciutto. When guests arrive, greet them with easy hors d’oeuvres that balance wellness with indulgence like this Crudites Platter or Fresh Snack Board.

To help ensure the freshest of ingredients in these tasty appetizers, look for the “Parma Crown” on packages of Prosciutto di Parma, which you can find pre-packaged or available for slicing at many gourmet deli counters and specialty food stores. Containing no additives, preservatives or hormones, Parma ham contains no additives, preservatives or hormones and is 100% natural. Aged twice as long as many other options, it creates a depth of flavor that’s delicate and sweet-savory with a buttery texture.

Find more easy appetizers perfect for entertaining at parmacrown.com.

Fresh Snack Board

• 1/3 pound Prosciutto di Parma
• 1 apple, sliced
• 1 handful pecans, walnuts or almonds
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup fig jam
• 1/2 pound sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
  crackers

1. On charcuterie board or platter, arrange prosciutto, apple slices, nuts, pomegranate seeds, fig jam and cheddar cheese slices. Serve with crackers.

Prosciutto Pizza

Yield: 8 slices

• Olive oil
• flour
• 1 container (16 ounces) store-bought pizza dough
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, cubed
• 5 slices Prosciutto di Parma
• 6 fresh basil leaves

1. Remove dough from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature at least 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 500 F. Grease baking sheet with olive oil.
2. Roll out pizza dough onto floured work surface to form oblong shape about 16 inches long and 12 inches wide. Remove to oiled baking sheet and stretch out edges to fill length of baking sheet.
3. Bake 4 minutes. Remove from oven and evenly spread tomato sauce over surface, leaving 1/2 inch from edges bare. Dot with mozzarella. Bake until edges are golden and mozzarella is bubbling, about 12 minutes.
4. Drape prosciutto over mozzarella. Garnish with fresh basil.

Sweet Potato Rounds

Yield: 16-20 rounds

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 bunch fresh sage, stems removed
• 4 ounces goat cheese
• 8 slices Prosciutto di Parma, halved

1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Line baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Peel and slice sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch rounds. In medium bowl, toss sweet potatoes with oil and lightly season with salt, to taste. Arrange rounds in single layer on prepared pan; bake until sweet potatoes are lightly browned and tender, about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. In small skillet over medium heat, bring butter to simmer. Add half the sage leaves. Cook until crispy, 2-3 minutes. Remove to paper towel and season lightly with salt, to taste. Repeat with remaining sage leaves. Reserve 2 teaspoons butter. In small food processor, combine goat cheese and reserved butter; whirl until smooth.
3. To make rounds, remove goat cheese to plastic zip-top bag. Cut off one corner and pipe small dollops of cheese onto each round. Top with half slice prosciutto and one crispy sage leaf.

Crudites Platter

Platter:

• 8 asparagus
• water
• 2 soft-boiled eggs
• 5 baby carrots, halved lengthwise
• 4 radishes with tops, halved lengthwise
• 1 head little gem lettuce, quartered
• 6-8 slices Prosciutto di Parma

Dip:

• 2 teaspoons white miso
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon water
• 1/2 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons chopped herbs (dill, tarragon or parsley)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• fresh black pepper, to taste

1. To make platter: Trim asparagus. To blanch, bring pot of water to boil and place asparagus in pot 2-3 minutes. While asparagus is cooking, fill large bowl with ice water. After 3 minutes, plunge asparagus in ice bath and let cool.
2. To soft-boil eggs, bring pot of water to boil. Gently place room temperature eggs in water and simmer 3-4 minutes. Remove eggs with slotted spoon and cool under running water.
3. Serve asparagus and eggs alongside baby carrots, radishes and little gem lettuce. Drape prosciutto slices over some vegetables and between others.
4. To make dip: In small bowl, whisk miso, lemon juice and water until smooth. Add yogurt, herbs and salt. Season generously with cracked pepper, to taste; mix and serve with platter.

Source: Prosciutto di Parma