ROSEMARY-ORANGE CHICKEN

This is an old recipe from Easy Everyday Cooking.

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (4-oz each)
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
1/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons grated orange peel or 1/4 cup orange-flavored liqueur
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons chicken broth
2 cups hot cooked pasta
4 fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

Place the chicken in a bowl and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil.  Sprinkle with the rosemary, salt and pepper.

Heat the remaining oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat; add chicken.  Cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.  Reduce heat to low.  Cook, covered, for 10 minutes or until cooked through.

Combine mandarin oranges, orange juice, orange peel, butter and broth in a small saucepan.  Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 2 minutes.

Place chicken and sauce in a small baking dish.  Bake for 10 minutes.  Divide hot pasta among serving plates.  Place chicken and sauce on top.  Garnish with the rosemary sprigs, if desired.

MEXI-STYLE SIRLOIN

3 tsp canola oil, divided

1 lb (approx. 3/4-in thick) boneless beef sirloin
1 medium onion, sliced thin
1 cup your favorite picante sauce

Cut the steak into 4 serving pieces.

Heat half the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.  Add the steak pieces and cook until well-browned on both sides.  Remove from the skillet and pour fat out of skillet.

Add the remaining oil to the skillet and add the onion; saute' until tender.  Stir in the picante sauce.  Add the steak back into the skillet, reduce heat to medium and cook a few more minutes until done to your taste.

Yield: 4 servings

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CHICKEN BOWTIE PASTA

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

1/3 cup chicken broth
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1 carton (10-oz) Philadelphia cooking creme
2 cups grape tomatoes
2 cups hot cooked bowtie pasta
12 fresh basil leaves, torn

In a large nonstick skillet that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, cook the chicken over medium heat approximately 6 minutes until cooked through.  Stir in the broth and garlic powder; cook another 3 minutes.

Add the cooking creme and tomatoes to the skillet mixture and cook, stirring, another 3 minutes.  Stir in the hot, drained pasta and toss to coat.

Sprinkle the basil leaves over all before serving.
Yield: 4 servings.

file photo for reference

REINDEER CHOW

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp salt
1 box (12-oz) rice or corn squares cereal
4 cups tiny pretzel twists, divided
2 cups powdered sugar
1 bag (10.7-oz) red and green milk chocolate candies*

In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter until melted. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt.

In a large stockpot with a fitted lid, combine cereal and half the pretzels. Pour chocolate mixture over and gently stir to coat. Add powdered sugar, put lid on pan and turn upside down a few times to combine.

Add the remaining pretzels and the chocolate candies and turn upside down a few more times to mix.

May be served immediately or stored in an airtight container.

* Other colored candies may be used for other occasions such as red, pink, white for Valentines Day, pastel colored for Easter, etc.

CHOCOLATE NUT CLUSTERS WITH SEA SALT

This is a quick to make recipe that does require an hour chilling time before serving.

2  cups dark chocolate chips, divided, + more for topping
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups pecan halves, toasted and cooled
Flaky sea salt for garnish

Line 24 mini muffin cups with paper liners; set aside.

Place 1 1/2 cups of the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 15 second intervals just until melted, stirring after each interval. Add the remaining 1/2 cup chocolate chips and salt; stir until smooth. Allow to cool 5 minutes; add the pecans and stir.

Using two spoons, drop about 2 tablespoons of the pecan mixture into each of the muffin cups. Drizzle any remaining chocolate evenly over the clusters. Refrigerate 5 minutes then top each cluster with a few sea salt flakes. Return to refrigerator and chill for 1 hour before serving.

Leftovers may be stored in an airtight container in cool place.

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EASY VEGGIE SALAD

2 bags (16-oz each) frozen California Blend (Cauliflower, Broccoli, Carrots) Vegetables

1 bottle (8-oz) Italian salad dressing
1/2 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup McCormick's Salad Toppings

Steam frozen vegetables 3 to 5 minutes until crisp tender; drain well.

In a large bowl toss the vegetables with the remaining ingredients until completely coated.

Refrigerate until serving time.

Yield: 8 servings

file photo for reference only

not this recipe

MANGO-BACON GUACAMOLE

3 avocados, pitted and cubed
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup red onion, diced fine
1/2 small jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped*
1 tsp ground cumin
salt and pepper to taste
juice of 1 lime
1 large mango, pitted and cubed
1 tbsp chopped, fresh cilantro
3 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
cayenne, to suit taste
Tortilla chips, for serving
lime wedges, for serving

Combine avocados, garlic, onion, jalapeno, cumin, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Mix to the consistency you desire using a fork. Keep some of the avocado cubes whole. Stir in the lime juice, mango, cilantro, and bacon. Sprinkle with the cayenne.

Serve guacamole with warm tortilla chips and the lime wedges.

Leftovers should be refrigerated.

I got this recipe from a little grocery store booklet.

RICE SALAD WITH HAM

2/3 cup brown rice

1 1/2 tbsp vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 tsp tarragon, optional
3 tbsp canola or olive oil
2 tbsp water
1 lb fully cooked ham, cut into bite-size cubes
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped fine
tomato slices to garnish dish

Cook the rice according to the package directions.

Combine the vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic, tarragon, oil and water, using a whisk.

Pour the dressing over the hot rice. Let stand until rice is completely cooled.

Mix the rice with the ham and parsley.

Line a pretty bowl with the tomato slices and place the salad in the center.

Yield: 4 servings.

BROCCOLI AND CARROTS IN LEMON BUTTER

1 lb peeled baby carrots

2 lb broccoli florets
4 tbsp butter
1 bunch scallions, white & green separated
1/2 cup chicken stock
1 tbsp grated lemon zest
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
3 tbsp lemon juice

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; add the carrots and cook 5 to 7 minutes or until crisp tender. Using a large slotted spoon, remove the carrots.  Place carrots in a large colander in the sink and run cold water over the carrots to stop the cooking.  Allow to sit and drain.

Return the carrot water to a boil; add the broccoli and cook about 5 minutes or until crisp tender.  Add to the colander with the carrots and run cold water overall.  Allow carrots/broccoli to drain well.

Melt the butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven.  Add the white of the scallions and stir over medium heat for a couple of minutes until soft.  Add the broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.  Bring to a boil; add the carrots and broccoli along with the green of the scallions.  Toss and cook until heated through.  Drizzle with the lemon juice, tossing to coat.

Yield: 12 servings

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ORANGE-FLAVORED BANANA BREAD

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 can (6-oz) frozen orange juice cocentrate
2 ripe bananas
2 eggs
1 cup raisins
1 cup walnuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Grease a 9-inch loaf pan and set aside.

Mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and the pumpkin pie spice in a large mixing bowl.

In another bowl, blend together the orange juice, bananas, and eggs; add to the flour mixture.  Stir in the raisins and walnuts.  Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake bread at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until it tests done.

Remove bread from pan and cool on a wire rack.

Cut into slices and serve butter or cream cheese, if desired.

This is a file photo. I have not made this bread. The recipe was given to me to share.

QUICK AND EASY CHICKEN & SAUSAGE JAMBALAYA

1 lb skinless boneless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces

1/2 lb smoked sausage, cut into slices
1 pkg (6.8-oz) rice and vermicelli mix with Spanish seasoning
2 cups water
1 can (14-oz) seasoned chunky tomatoes with juice

Spray a large nonstick skillet (that has a lid) with nonstick cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat.  Add the chicken and cook about 5 minutes, stirring often, or until lightly browned.  Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Cook the rice and vermicelli in the skillet, stirring almost constantly, until golden brown.  Gradually stir in the seasoning from the mix, the water, and the tomatoes; bring to a boil.  Stir in the sausage and the browned chicken.  Place lid on skillet and cook on low approximately 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and chicken is cooked through.  Stir occasionally during this time.

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Yield: 6 servings

Note: This is also a recipe diabetics can enjoy as each serving has only 11 grams carbs and 24 grams protein.

CRANBERRY SALAD

This salad is quick to make but part of it has to refrigerate overnight.

2 cups ground frozen cranberries
3 cups miniature marshmallows
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 cups chopped apple
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 cup whipping cream, whipped

Mix the cranberries, marshmallows, and sugar.  Cover mixture and refrigerate overnight.

Mix the apples, nuts, and whipped cream into the cranberry mixture.  Chill before serving.

TOH photo for reference only

TACO-FLAVORED CHEESE TORTILLA ROLLS

1/4 cup soft cream cheese

1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 tsp taco seasoning mix
4 (6-inch size) flour tortillas
8 slices American processed cheese
Salsa for serving

In a small bowl combine the cream cheese, cilantro, and taco seasoning mix; blend together well.

Make the tortilla rolls by spreading one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture over each of the tortillas.  Place two slices of the processed cheese atop each of the tortillas.  Roll each tortilla up tightly and wrap securely in plastic wrap; refrigerate.

Before serving, remove from refrigerator and slice each of the rolled tortillas into six pinwheels. 

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Serve the pinwheels with your favorite salsa.

EASY CHOCOLATE TRUFFLE COOKIES

1 1/4 cups butter, softened

2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 pkg (12-oz) semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup chocolate candy sprinkles

In a large mixer bowl, cream the butter, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder until light and fluffy.  Beat in the sour cream and vanilla.

Add the flour to the creamed mixture and mix together well.  Stir in the chocolate chips.

Refrigerate cookie dough for an hour.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Remove from the refrigerator and roll into 1-inch balls.  Pour the chocolate sprinkles into a cup or small bowl; dip cookie balls in the chocolate sprinkles.

Place cookies, chocolate coated side up, about 2-inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.  Bake at 325 degrees for 10 minutes or until set and lightly browned.  Cool on cookie sheets for 5 minutes then gently remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Makes 5 to 6 dozen cookies.

file photo of these cookies

COLORFUL BELL PEPPER-SHELL SALAD

2 to 2 1/2 cups cooked whole-wheat shell macaroni

1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 small red onion, diced
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing

Whisk the balsamic vinaigrette with the mayonnaise until completely blended in a large bowl.

Add the macaroni, bell peppers, onion, basil, and Parmesan cheese; toss to coat completely with the mayonnaise/vinaigrette mixture.

Chill until serving time.

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ROASTED RED PEPPER DIP

1 jar (5-oz) roasted red peppers

1 can (4-oz) chopped green chilies, drained
1 cup sour cream
1 cup mayo
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder

Min all ingredients together in a small mixing bowl until well blended.  Chill until serving time.

This dip is good served  with fresh veggies, chips, or whole-grain party crackers.

Yield: Approximately 3 cups

file photo for reference only

ZUCCHINI CHIVE DIP

1 8-oz container Soft Philadelphia brand cream cheese
3 tbsp milk
1 small zucchini, shredded
3 tbsp chopped chives
1/8 tsp salt

Combine the cream cheese and milk until well combined. Add the zucchini, chives, and salt, if using; mix well. Chill until serving time.

Serve with chips, party crackers or fresh vegetables.

Yield: Approximately 1 cup

This is a Philadelphia Brand recipe and photo.

CHICKEN CRESCENT ALMONDINE

1 can cream of chicken soup

2/3 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tbsp instant minced onion
3 cups cooked chicken (a deli roasted chicken, shredded, works great)
1 can (8-oz) water chestnuts, drained
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
1 tube (8-oz) crescent rolls
2/3 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1/2 cup slivered almonds

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Lightly spray a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking dish or pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

In a large saucepan combine the soup, mayo, sour cream, and onion to mix well.  Add the chicken water chestnuts, and celery; cook over medium heat just until heated through.  Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish or pan.

Unroll the crescent dough and form into 2 rectangles to cover the chicken mixture.  Sprinkle the cheese and almonds over the top of the dough.

Bake casserole at 375 degrees for approximately 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Yield: 8 servings

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BEEF AND RICE COCKTAIL MEATBALLS

1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef

1 cup quick cook brown rice
1 can (8-oz) crushed pineapple in its own juice
1/2 cup finely shredded carrot
1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 tsp ground ginger
8-oz French dressing
2 tbsp reduced sodium soy sauce

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, rice, pineapple, carrot, onion, egg, and ginger; form into 1-inch meatballs.  Place meatballs on ungreased baking sheets with sides.  Bake at 400 degrees 15 to 20 minutes until browned and cooked through.

While meatballs bake, mix the French dressing and soy sauce together, whisking to blend well.  Serve the meatballs with the sauce.

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SPICY MIXED NUTS

2 tbsp butter melted

1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp ground red pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1 can (12-oz) mixed nuts

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Pour nuts into a heat-proof mixing bowl.

Combine the butter, cumin, red pepper, and garlic powder until well blended; pour over the nuts while stirring to coat well.

Spread the nuts out over the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking pan and bake approximately 10 minutes.  Stir nuts after the first 4 to 5 minutes.

Remove pan from oven and place on a wire rack to cool.

Cooled nuts may be served or placed in a airtight container for storing or giving as gifts.

Yield: 2 1/2 cups

Notes: Nuts are a good snack for diabetics.

CHILI BARBECUE SAUCE

1/2 stick butter

1 cup diced onion
1 large garlic clove, minced
1 bottle (12-oz) chili sauce
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1/4 cup honey
1/3 cup water
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp grated lime peel

In a small saucepan, over medium heat, melt butter; add onion and garlic, saute' until tender.  Stir in the chili sauce until blended.  Add the lime juice, honey, water, pepper and lime peel; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat to simmer and cook about 5 minutes.

May be kept refrigerated for up to a week.

free clipart

CHEESY HERBED CRACKER SPREAD

Note: This is best if made a little ahead of serving so it can be refrigerated at least an hour.

1/2 brick (8-oz size) cream cheese, softened

1/3 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded Colby/Monterey Jack cheese
2 tbsp fresh minced parsley
2 tbsp finely chopped green onion
1/2 tsp paprika
dash of hot pepper sauce

Beat the cream cheese and sour cream together with electric mixer until well blended.  Stir in the shredded cheese, parsley, green onion, paprika, and hot pepper sauce until well blended.  Spoon into a small crock or bowl, cover and refrigerate until serving time.

Serve with a plate of assorted whole-grain party crackers.  May also be used to stuff celery sticks.

Yield: 2 cups

This is a dreamstime photo used for reference only.

It is not this recipe.

QUICK & EASY BACON CORNBREAD DRESSING

1 box (6-oz) cornbread stuffing mix

1/2 cup chopped onion
4-5 slices bacon, diced
1 tbsp melted butter
1 2/3 cups water

Cook the bacon and onion together in a medium skillet until bacon is cooked and onion is tender; drain and place in a 2-quart saucepan.

Add the butter, water and the seasoning packet from the stuffing mix to the saucepan, stir to blend well and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Remove from the heat and add the cornbread crumb mixture stirring just to moisten.  Cover and let stand 5 minutes.  Fluff up with a fork before serving.

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Yield: 4 servings.

COOKED COCOA ICING

Cooked icing may sound complicated but in reality it is very simple and quick and the taste is worth the little extra time!  This icing will remind you of fudge!

2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
1 tbsp corn syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract

In a medium saucepan, stir the sugar and cocoa together until blended.  Add the butter, milk, and corn syrup to the sugar mixture.  Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.  Boil mixture 2 minutes.

Transfer hot icing into a medium-sized heat-resistant bowl and allow to cool for 5 minutes.  Add the vanilla extract.  Place the bowl into a large bowl of ice and beat about 5 minutes, or until of spreading consistency, using an electric mixer.

Use to frost cupcakes, using about a tablespoon per cupcake or frost a sheet cake or use as a filling and glaze on a layer cake.

CHEESY VEGETABLE BRUNCH BAKE

1/2 lb fresh sliced mushrooms

1 medium-size red bell pepper, chopped
1 medium-size green bell pepper, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
8 slices whole-grain bread, torn into bite-size pieces
12 large eggs
1/3 cup fat-free sour cream
12-oz Velveeta-style cheese, sliced thin

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Spray a medium skillet with nonstick cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, bell peppers, and onion; cook, stirring, about 10 minutes or until the peppers are crisp tender.

Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or pan with nonstick cooking spray; spread the bread pieces over the bottom and top with the vegetables.

Whisk the eggs and sour cream together and pour over the vegetables; top with the cheese.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes or until heated through and center is set.

Yield: 12 servings

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PIZZA-STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1 med onion, diced
2 cups cooked rice
1 1/2 cups pizza sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
3 large bell peppers
6 slices mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Crumble sausage into a  large skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring to break up, until browned. Transfer to a clean plate.

Add the onion to the skillet and cook, stirring often, until softened (about 5 to 6 minutes). Add the sausage back into the skillet with the onion. Add the rice, pizza sauce, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Season with the salt and pepper.

Cut peppers in half, top to bottom; remove seeds and stems. Season with a little salt and pepper. Spoon the stuffing evenly into the six halves. Place peppers into a baking dish and add about 1/2-inch of water to the dish. Cover dish with foil.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes until the peppers are tender and sausage is cooked thoroughly.

Turn oven to broil. Remove the foil from the dish and top each pepper with a slice of the mozzarella cheese. Broil 2 to 3 minutes until lightly browned.

Yield: 6 servings
Per serving: 510 calories, 34 g fat (15 saturated, 0 trans fat), 90 mg cholesterol, 110 mg sodium, 26 g carbs, 3 g fiber, 5 g sugar, 24 g protein
Note: the carb to protein ratio makes this okay for diabetics

My version of a recipe I got from Kroger.

MAYO-PARMESAN CHICKEN BREASTS

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup mayo
4 (1 lb total) skinless boneless chicken breast halves
4 tsp fine bread crumbs
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning*

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Lightly spray a baking sheet or pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Arrange the chicken breasts on the prepared baking pan.

Stir the Parmesan into the mayonnaise.  Spread the mayo mixture over the tops of the chicken breasts.

Combine the bread crumbs and seasoning; sprinkle over the chicken breasts.

Bake at 425 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

HOMEMADE LOW-FAT CHOCOLATE SHAKE

2 cups low-fat chocolate ice cream

1 1/3 cups fat-free milk
1 container (3.75-oz) sugar-free refrigerated double chocolate pudding cup
2 tbsp sugar-free chocolate syrup

Combine all ingredients in blender and blend just until thick, smooth, and frothy.

Yummy!

Yield: 2 servings

Note: This shake tastes almost like famous restaurant shakes but has about half the calories of most.

TAILGATING OR IN-FRONT-OF-THE-TV HAM AND TURKEY SUB

Whether you plan to tailgate at the game or watch the game from your easy chair at home, this sub sandwich will be a hit!

1 loaf (1 lb size) French or Italian Bread (whole-grain preferably!)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 lb deli thin-sliced honey ham
1/2 lb deli thin-sliced smoked turkey breast
6 to 8 slices cheddar or American cheese (your preference)
1 1/2 to 2 cups shredded lettuce
2 medium tomatoes, sliced thin
8 to 10 slices bacon, cooked and drained
1/2 red onion, sliced thin
banana peppers, sliced thin, optional

Split bread in half lengthwise without cutting all the way through; spread the mayonnaise over the bottom half of the bread.

Place layers atop the mayonnaise as follows; ham, turkey, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, bacon, peppers-if using, and onion.

The file photo.

For tailgating, wrap sandwich tightly in plastic wrap until ready to serve.  Unwrap and cut into 8 to 10 equal pieces.  Otherwise, place sandwich on cutting board and cut into individual pieces.  Arrange on platter and carry to TV room!

CHEESE RAVIOLI WITH CREAMY VEGETABLE SAUCE

1 pkg (1-lb) frozen or fresh refrigerated cheese ravioli

1/2 stick butter
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup cut green beans
1/2 cup chopped fresh asparagus
1 large ripe tomato, chopped
1/2 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1 cup low-fat evaporated milk
1/2 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook the ravioli according to the package directions.  Drain well.

While ravioli cooks, melt the butter in a large nonstick skillet over high heat.  Add the vegetables to the skillet and saute over high heat until tender; reduce heat.

Add the evaporated milk, cornstarch, salt, and pepper to the vegetables in skillet.  Simmer, stirring almost constantly, for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Place the drained ravioli in serving bowl and pour the creamy vegetable sauce overall.

Sprinkle with he grated Parmesan.

Yield: 4 servings

This is the file photo.

BLUEBERRY SOUR CREAM CORN MUFFINS

3/4 cup white whole-wheat flour

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cornmeal
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 egg, beaten
1 cup fat-free sour cream
1/3 cup thawed frozen unsweetened apple juice concentrate
1 12 cups fresh or frozen (do not thaw) blueberries
2/3 cup whipped cream cheese
2 tbsp no-sugar-added blueberry fruit spread

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Grease 12 medium-size muffin cups or use paper liners; set aside.

Combine the flours, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium mixing bowl.

Combine the egg, sour cream, and juice concentrate in a small bowl; add to the flour mixture, mixing only until moistened.  Very gently stir in the blueberries.

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one about 3/4 full.

Bake at 400 degrees for 18 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to stand in the pans for 5 minutes on a wire rack.

Remove muffins from pan and allow to cool slightly.

In a small bowl combine the cream cheese and fruit spread; serve with warm muffins.

file photo for reference only

CHEESY PARMESAN GRITS

1 cup quick-cooking grits

4 cups water
1/3 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese

In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil; gradually whisk in the grits.  Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, 8-9 minutes or until thickened.  Whisk in the pepper and Parmesan cheese.

SOUTHERN BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD

1 1/4 cups flour

1 cup + 3 tbsp white cornmeal
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Lightly grease an 8-inch iron skillet or cornbread pan and heat in oven for 5 minutes.

In a medium mixing bowl combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt using a wire whisk.  Whisk in the butter.  When butter is incorporated whisk in the eggs and buttermilk until smooth.

Pour the batter into the heated iron skillet and bake at 400 degrees for 30 to 33 minutes until golden brown.

I have had this recipe and photo for so many years I have no idea where it originated.

YOGURT POTATO SALAD WITH DILL

2 1/2 lbs red potatoes, cubed

1 cup whole kernel corn
3 tbsp cider vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup plain fat-free yogurt
1/3 cup water
1 tsp Dijon mustard
3/4 cup chopped celery
3/4 cup sliced scallions
1/2 cup chopped fresh dill

In a large saucepan cook the potatoes with enough water to cover.  Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until almost tender, about 8 minutes.

Add the corn and simmer 1 minute.  Drain well.

Transfer potatoes and corn to a large bowl and toss with the vinegar, salt, and pepper.  Allow to cool.

In a medium mixing bowl combine the mayonnaise, yogurt, water, and Dijon together until smooth.  Add the potatoes, celery, scallions, and chopped dill; toss to mix thoroughly.  Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

This is the file photo.

CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI SALAD

This is a quick fix recipe but does need to be chilled a couple of hours before serving.

2 cups cubed cooked chicken breasts
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sugar
5 tbsp raspberry vinegar
1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
4 cups small broccoli florets
1/2 cup dry-roasted cashews
1/2 cup sunflower kernels
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup golden raisins

In a small bowl whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar to make the dressing.  Whisk until well blended; set aside.

In a large bowl combine the chicken, bacon, broccoli, cashews, sunflower kernels, chopped onion, and raisins.  Add the dressing and stir until well coated.  Cover and chill a couple of hours to let the flavors blend.

Yield: 8 cups of salad

This is a file photo.

KOSHER POTATO PANCAKES

2 large eggs

Kosher salt to taste
pepper to taste
1 lb medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and cut in half lengthwise
2 medium yellow onions, quartered
1/2 cup matzo meal
4 tbsp olive oil

In a large bowl, using a wire whisk, whisk together the eggs, teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

Using a large grating disk in food processor (the large size of a box grater) grate the potatoes and onion; add to the egg bowl; toss to combine.

Add the matzo meal to the mixture and mix to combine.

Heat half the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Using 1/4 cup measure, drop mixture into the hot oil.  Mash gently with spatula to flatten into pancake shapes and cook until browned, about 4 to 6  minutes per side.  Transfer to plate and repeat with more mixture until all is used.  Add the additional oil as needed.

file photo

Serve pancakes with applesauce, if desired.

PORK CHOPS IN MUSTARD SAUCE

4 (3/4-inch thick) bone-in center-cut pork chops

1/4 tsp salt
dash of black pepper
2 tsp olive oil
1 1/2 cups cooking wine
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard

Sprinkle the salt and pepper over the chops.

Heat olive (or coconut) oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.  Add chops and cook 3 to 4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove chops from pan.

Add the wine, honey, and mustard to the pan and bring to a boil; cook 3 minutes.

Return the chops to the pan, reduce the heat and simmer 12-14 minutes, turning after 6 minutes.

Note: This recipe contains honey however there is an excellent carb to protein ratio making this okay for most diabetics.

Approximate per 1 chop with 3 tablespoons sauce: 308 calories, 11g (3.5 sat) fat, 25 g carbs, 25 g protein.

This is the file photo.

FRUIT SALAD WITH COLORFUL MARSHMALLOWS

2 red apples

2 firm bananas
1 small can madnarin oranges, drained
1 large can fruit cocktail, drained and juice saved.
12 maraschino cherries, cut in half
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
2 cups miniature colored marshmallows

Wash, core, and cut apples into bite-size pieces.  Stir into the reserved fruit cocktail juice.

Peel bananas and cut into bite-size slices.

Combine the apples that have been drained, bananas, and fruit cocktail.  Add the cherries, nuts, and marshmallows.  Stir gently to combine well.  Chill, if desired.

Yield: 2 quarts.

file photo for reference only

OPEN-FACED GROUND BEEF PHILLIES

1 lb lean ground beef (no fatter than 80/20!)

1 med-size green bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch strips
1 med-size red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch strips
1 small onion, cut into thin wedges
1/2 cup low-sugar creamy Italian salad dressing
1 loaf (12-inches long) whole-grain French or Italian bread, halved lengthwise
4 slices thinly sliced Provolone cheese, quartered

In a medium to large skillet, crumble and cook the ground beef with the bell peppers and onion. Cook until the beef is completely browned, stirring occasionally; drain well.

Stir half of the salad dressing into the beef mixture. Spread other half of dressing on the cut sides of the bread.

Place both halves of the bread, cut sides up, on an ungreased cookie sheet; broil 4 to 6-inches from the heat for 3 to 5 minutes until lightly toasted. Remove from broiler.

Evenly divide the beef/peppers mixture between the two halves of bread and spread to cover. Top with the cheese pieces and return to the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is melted.

Cut each half of the bread into 2 pieces to serve 4.

This is the file photo.

BASIC MEAT MARINADE WITH TEX-MEX OPTION

1/2 cup olive or canola oil

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 lemon, juiced
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Whisk all the above ingredients together, add meat, and marinade according to the meat recipe.

The above is a basic marinade.  You can add other ingredients to make it a Tex-Mex marinade:

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 tsp hot pepper sauce
• replace the lemon above with lime and add the zest

file photo used for reference only

FRUIT AND VEGGIE CHICKEN STIR-FRY

1 tbsp olive or coconut oil

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-size chunks
2 cups fresh sugar snap peas, trimmed
1 large red bell pepper, cut into bite-size pieces
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
1/4 cup Asian Toasted Sesame Dressing
1 tbsp lite soy sauce
2 green onions, cut diagonally into thin slices

Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken, snap peas, bell pepper, and garlic; stir-fry 4 to 5 minutes or until the chicken is done.

Add the pineapple to the skillet and stir-fry another 2 minutes or until heated through.

Combine the dressing and soy sauce; stir into the pan.

Remove from the heat and stir in the onions.

This is the file photo.