A to Z Recipes Newsletter
A to Z Recipes                                         February 10, 2008
Always something to make you think, laugh and cook.

 

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Today's Issue

Publisher's Desk
Just a Pinch of Kindness
Food For Thought
Ramblings
Did You Know?
Monthly Theme, Recipe Submissions
Reader Support
Birthday Babies
Crazy Corner
Regional Recipes
Recipe Reviews
Reader Recipe Favorites
Heart Healthy
Diabetic Choices
For Two
Publisher's Choice
A to Z Recipes QT Chat
Please visit the A to Z Recipes aStore
A to Z Recipes Recommended Reading
A to Z Recipes Yahoo Group
A to Z Readers' Family-Owned Business Guide



Publisher's Desk

Good morning and welcome to your Sunday edition of A to Z Recipes Newsletter. Yes, I am back from break. I've missed you guys a LOT.

Try as I may, I lost some emails from a few of you. I got sick (still am, actually) and did not transfer email that came in the bulk section quickly enough (would have been from first-time senders) and they were deleted from my Hotmail account. So, if you sent me an email (for the first time) and I did not reply, I suppose I won't. I would like to thank everyone for writing and I hope we are in synch and things go well now for the newsletter.

We're planning another A to Z Recipes get-together for August of this year. We'll be visiting Washington State and Vancouver this time, and we sure hope to have a good turnout. If you live in the Washington, Oregon, or Vancouver areas, or would like to travel to meet up with us in Bellingham or Vancouver during August 12-19th, please let me know. You can send me an email using this handy Great Washington Escape link. Please make sure to use the link so your email doesn't end up in the bulk mail file and possibly deleted!

We will be sharing our Monthly Theme recipes today but how about a new topic? I think this one will be a lot of fun and one that most can enjoy. Visit the Monthly Theme section to read all about it. Thanks.

As promised, we have oodles of recipes shared in our Monthly Theme topic: Lighten Up. If you didn't join in, well then shame on you, because it's only a few minutes out of your month and everyone should have. It takes your help to make the issues possible. Here are the fine folks who helped with this one:

Mary H., Montreal, Canada
Leasa, IA
Nancy F., Sacramento, CA
Vicki, Sarasota, FL
Ann, FL
Treva, NC
Mary S., Nashville, TN
Pat, Minden, NV
Bill Anatooskin, Burnaby, BC, Canada
Lou, FL
Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada
Sally, Boise, ID
Brenda, AL
Gerryl Ann M., Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada


We'll see you here again on Wednesday, God willing.



Just a Pinch of Kindness

Please tell ten friends to tell ten today! The Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman.

It takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on "donating a mammogram" for free (pink window in the middle).

This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate mammograms in exchange for advertising. Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know.





Start using GoodSearch today for all of your internet searches, and help raise much needed funds for the National MS Society, New York City Chapter! There are thousands of other worthy causes that can be helped - free - by you doing what you normally do - every day.


Free Rice

Shared by Mary H., Montreal, Canada

There is a wonderful new site which was begun in October 2007. It is called Free Rice. By clicking on the site, you play a little game of word definitions and for every correct answer, ten grains of rice are donated to the poor by sponsors mentioned below the words. It is at no cost to you and the site is perfectly legitimate. Participate and improve your vocabulary at the same time! If you get a wrong answer, you are not penalized, you just try again with the next word. Here is the site: http://freerice.com/ Good luck!



Food For Thought

Shared by Mary H., Montreal, Canada

"Bring beauty. If you can paint a picture or carve an image or plant a flower, you will have put something into the world that was not here when you came."
~William E. Barrett

Click if you have a submission for the Food For Thought section of A to Z Newsletters. Make sure to include your name and location for posting. Thanks!



Ramblings

Thoughts to Get Through a Crisis

You cannot make someone love you. All you can do is stalk them and hope they panic, and then give in.

One good turn gets most of the blankets.

No matter how much I care, some people are just jackasses.

It takes years to build up trust, and it only takes suspicion - not proof - to destroy it.

Honesty is the best policy, but insanity is a better defense.

I've learned that whatever hits the fan will not be evenly distributed.

You shouldn't compare yourself to others - they are more screwed up than you think.

Depression is merely anger without enthusiasm.

It is not what you wear; it is how you take it off.

You can keep vomiting long after you think you're finished.

I've learned to not sweat the petty things, and not pet the sweaty things.

Ex-wives and Ex-husbands are like fungus, and keep coming back.

Age is a very high price to pay for maturity.

We are responsible for what we do, unless we are celebrities.

Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity.

99% of the time when something isn't working in your house, one of your kids did it.

There is a fine line between genius and insanity.

The people you care most about in life are taken from you too soon and all the less important ones just never go away, and the real pains in the ass are permanent.

Once over the hill, you pick up speed.

I love cooking with wine. Sometimes, I even put it in the food.

If it weren't for stress, I'd have no energy at all.

Whatever hits the fan will not be evenly distributed.

I know God won't give me more than I can handle. I just wish He didn't trust me so much.

Dogs have owners. Cats have staff.

We cannot change the direction of the wind, but we can adjust our sails.

Some days are a total waste of makeup.

If the shoe fits, buy it in every color.

If you're too open minded, your brains will fall out.

Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.

If you must choose between two evils, pick the one you've never tried before.

My idea of housework is to sweep the room with a glance.

Not one shred of evidence supports the notion that life is serious.

It is easier to get forgiveness than permission.

For every action, there is an equal and opposite government program.

If you look like your passport picture, you definitely need the trip.

Bills travel through the mail at twice the speed of checks.

A conscience is what hurts when all your other parts feel so good.

A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand.

Middle age is when broadness of the mind and narrowness of the waist change places.

Opportunities always look bigger going than coming.

Junk is something you've kept for years and throw away three weeks before you need it.

There is always one more imbecile than you counted on.

Experience is a wonderful thing. It enables you to recognize a mistake when you make it again.

By the time you can make ends meet, they move the ends.

Someone who thinks logically provides a nice contrast to the real world.

Learn from the mistakes of others. You can't live long enough to make them all yourself.

Health is merely the slowest possible rate at which one can die.

There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.

Indecision is the key to flexibility.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. You should live your life so that when you die, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

If you lend someone twenty dollars and never see that person again, it was probably worth it.

You cannot tell which way the train went by looking at the track.

A mouse trap placed on top of your alarm clock will prevent you from rolling over and going back to sleep after you hit the snooze button.

There is absolutely no substitute for a genuine lack of preparation.

Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

Happiness is merely the remission of pain.

Nostalgia isn't what it used to be.

No one is listening until you pass gas.

Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving.

Sometimes too much drink is not enough.

The facts, although interesting, are irrelevant.

The careful application of terror is also a form of communication.

Someone who thinks logically is a nice contrast to the real world.

Things are more like they are today than they ever have been before.

Anything worth fighting for is worth fighting dirty for.

Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler.

Friends may come and go, but enemies accumulate.

I have seen the truth and it makes no sense.

Suicide is the most sincere form of self-criticism.

All things being equal, fat people use more soap.

If you can smile when things go wrong, you have someone in mind to blame.

One-seventh of your life is spent on Monday.

The more you run over a dead cat, the flatter it gets.

This is as bad as it can get, but don't bet on it.

Never wrestle with a pig: you both get all dirty, and the pig likes it.

Any and all compliments can be handled by simply saying "Thank you," though it helps if you say it with a Southern accent..

No books will be as good as the ones you loved as a child.

Avoid cutting yourself while slicing vegetables: get someone else to hold them while you chop away.

Never give yourself a haircut after 3 martinis, or 3 margaritas, or 3 shots of tequila.

When baking, follow directions. When cooking, go by your own taste.

Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, martini in the other, your body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming, "Woo hoo! What a ride!"

The trouble with life is you're halfway through it before you realize it's a "do it yourself" thing.

Always put yourself in others' shoes. If you feel that it hurts you, it probably hurts the other person too.

The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.

It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it, and it's true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives.

It takes only a day to love someone, but it takes a lifetime to forget someone.

Go for someone who makes you smile because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything that comes along their way.

Click if you have a submission for the Ramblings section of A to Z Newsletters. Make sure to include your name and location for posting. Thanks!



Did You Know?

SIT DOWN FITNESS

Shared by Leasa, IA

"According to an Australian study, most people sit for more than nine hours a day. Don't let all the time go to waste." Here are a few simple exercises to strengthen and tone your muscles.

Leg Straightener: Sit slightly forward away from the backrest and life one leg at a time about 3 inches off the ground. Then tighten your leg muscles and hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Relax and repeat two times a day on each leg.

Cheek Scrunches: (my favorite..lol) Sit up straight in your chair with your feet flat on the ground. Tighten your "butt muscles" for 5 to 10 seconds. Relax, and repeat 5 - 10 times twice a day. 

Foot Alphabet: Slip your feet out of your shoes. Sit up straight in your chair with both feet on the floor. Raise one foot high enough so you swivel in all directions. Then, with your big toe, write the alphabet. Repeat with the other foot. As you make letters, spread and curl your toes. Do this 2 - 3 times a day.

Now let's all grab a chair!

Source: Eat Better America



FAT-FREE, MAKE-AHEAD, COMFORTING SOUPS
by Jyl Steinback

Soups on!! Make it from scratch, start with a can, or create your own with leftover meat, chicken, fish and/or vegetables. A whole-hearty nutritious and low-cost meal; soup is the ultimate "comfort" food. Stocked full of fresh vegetables, seasonings, herbs and flavorful broth, soup is satisfying and stimulating as a side dish or full meal. Pull out the pot, turn up the burners, throw in a dash of love and simmer it up with soup! 

Top Tips for Savory Soups:
-Start off with soup and take the edge off your appetite. Studies have shown that those who consume 1 cup soup before eating, take in 25% less calories. 
-Keep it healthy - start with fat-free broth. Choose from chicken, beef, or vegetable or make your own. 
-If you make your own stock, always start with COLD water. Draw out the juices and nutrients from the meats and vegetables you add to the stock. 
-For homemade stocks, keep the burner on a low, steady heat - do not boil! 
-Give yourself plenty of time to bring out fabulous flavors. Simmer your stock 4-6 hours; strain broth through several layers of cheesecloth or pour through sieve. 
-Refrigerate homemade stock for up to two days or freeze up to six months. 
-Select a main ingredient or combination of ingredients: vegetables, fish, beef, or poultry. Go for seasonal and fresh when you can. 
-Choose a liquid: homemade stock, canned broth, or skim milk. 
-Bring to a boil; immediately reduce heat to low and simmer for the remaining cooking time. 
-Season with onions, garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, fresh herbs, parsley, or seasoning powders (i.e. onion powder, garlic powder). Add seasonings in small amounts and taste after each addition. 
-Always season your soup at the end of cooking time to bring out the best flavor. Dried spices give off more flavors when they are heated, but fresh herbs lose their flavor if cooked too long. 
-Make soup ahead of time and freeze for quick meal or snack. If freezing, season soups more lightly. Seasonings intensify during freezing so add as needed while reheating. 
-Do not overcook soup you plan to freeze. It will cook further when reheated. 
-Toss in a few potato slices if you accidentally "overspice" the soup; then simmer for 30-45 minutes, then discard the potatoes. 
-Garnish soups with fat-free croutons, cheese, lemon or orange slices, scallions, cooked pasta, a dollop of fat-free sour cream, or fresh pieces of herbs just before serving. 
-Make cream soups with fat-free yogurt, skim milk, or evaporated skim milk. Do not boil soup after adding milk product! 
-If you purchase canned soup, avoid creamy varieties unless you can add your own skim milk. Choose soups labeled "fat free," "low sodium" or "no added salt." 
-Beware of packaged noodle soups - most of those noodles are prefried and salted packing on grams of fat and milligrams of sodium! One 3 oz. package of Chicken flavor ramen noodle soup contains 380 calories, 1820 milligrams of sodium and 14 grams of fat - over 33% of the calories from fat!!! 
-Turn broth or homemade stock into a wholesome, thick and creamy meal in a bowl without the fat! 
-For clear soups, use cornstarch, arrowroot, rice flour to tapioca. For opaque soups without starch, stir in flour, bread crumbs, pureed cooked rice, or mashed potatoes. 
-Whisk 2 tablespoons flour with 1/2 cup cold water for each quart of broth. Whisk into the hot soup and cook over medium heat 3-5 minutes until soup thickens and flour is blended. 
-Whisk 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1/2 cup cold water for each quart of broth. Whisk into the hot soup over medium heat for 30 seconds, or until thickened. If soup is refrigerated or frozen, it may need additional thickening when heated. 
-Whisk 1 cup mashed potatoes into soup over medium heat for each quart of broth. Cook 3-4 minutes until thickened. 
-Whisk 2 tablespoons rice flour into 1/2 cup cold water for each quart of broth. Whisk into hot soup over medium heat and cook 2-3 minutes until thickened. 
-Combine 1/2-1 cup cooked rice with 1/2 cup water in food processor or blender and puree. Whisk into hot soup and cook over medium heat 4-5 minutes until thickened. 
-Puree half the vegetables from your soup with a cup of liquid in a food processor or blender; return the mixture to the pot and cook until heated through. 
-Add pasta, noodles, barley, rice, potatoes, dumplings, or beans to thicken soup. 
-Add flour or cornstarch to milk and blend until smooth. Gradually add to soup and mix until thickened. 

Good reasons to ladle out a bowl of soup: 
-One to two servings of soup (1-2 cups) can provide you with all the nutrition of a "steak and potatoes" meal. 
-Helps the "sniffles" or soothes a sore throat when you're feeling sick. 
-Makes you feel "toasty" and warm on a cold winter day!

Source: iVillage

Click if you have a submission for the Did You Know? section of A to Z Newsletters. Make sure to include your name and location for posting. Thanks!



Monthly Theme, Recipe Submissions

Eat Your Veggies!

Here's the scoop on the current theme:

Eat Your Veggies! Do I sound like your mother? More than moms have realized the value of eating vegetables. The USDA Food Guide Pyramid suggests 5 to 7 servings each day. That's a lofty goal for anyone especially without some delicious recipes to make them taste better for our families. We're looking for recipes featuring vegetables this month, folks. These recipes can use fresh vegetables (always best, of course), frozen or canned. Share your recipes using vegetables, whether it be a side dish or a main course with other ingredients added in to make it a family favorite. And don't forget that veggies are an ingredient in some tasty desserts and baked goods, too! We love sharing recipes here, sure, but it takes your help to keep it going. And the Monthly Theme issues are the most popular, and a great way to start another resolution: sharing recipes!

Note: There are still some readers who routinely send in an email that says "do this... do that" and call it a recipe submission. I have graciously put it all in recipe format and made you a hero. PLEASE provide a recipe, i.e.: Title, Ingredients, Procedure, along with your name and location. You'll be an even bigger hero in my eyes! Please share your favorite recipes in this month's theme topic of Eat Your Veggies!. We will collect them the remainder of this month and post them on the first Sunday of November. Please understand that we do not wish to infringe on copyrighted material; if your source states it is copyrighted then do not send it. Make sure to view the rules section to ensure your submissions are acceptable.

Please use this email link to submit a recipe for theme recipes: Eat Your Veggies!

A to Z Recipes continues with its popular Theme Issues. We will share theme recipes and post them on the first (or second) Sunday of each month. Send your recipes no later than the last day of each month to have them posted in the next monthly theme issue. You may send in your favorite theme recipes in ONE email. If the number of recipes submitted by readers exceeds those needed in the issue, the publisher will post as many from every submitter as possible and save the remaining recipes for the following Sundays of that month. The rules for recipe submissions for the monthly theme issues are the same as ALL recipes submitted for posting.

The rules for posting items in A to Z Recipes newsletters are:
As a service to your fellow readers, please send only items that are in a form that others could easily copy and save for their own use. Items that would require a lot of editing or cleaning up (ALL caps or NO caps) or recipes that use non-standard measurements should not be submitted. Recipes MUST include a title, list of ingredients, and directions for preparation. Items for posting without a name and location of sender may NOT be posted or posted without any credit given. Many web sites prohibit distribution of their materials without a web link. If you wish to submit an item from another web site, be sure that web site allows it. If so, you must include the web site address (the URL - in other words - cut and paste the address shown in your web browser when you viewed the item on that web site). It is unreasonable to expect a2z to research and verify your sources. There will be NO recipes posted that are copyrighted or from other recipe-zines. A to Z Recipes protects the privacy of its readers and does NOT publish email addresses. There will be no exceptions.

Please use this email link for submitting only regular recipes: A to Z Recipes Inbox.
Please use this email link for submitting only theme recipes: Eat Your Veggies!.
Please use this email link for submitting all other items for posting: A to Z Recipes.

See the A to Z Recipes Theme Issues collection here: A to Z Recipes Theme Issues

The theme issue for Promised Recipes has a deadline of February 29, 2008, and will be posted on March 9, 2008.

Please use this email link to submit a recipe for theme recipes: Eat Your Veggies!

As usual, only recipes are to be sent to: A to Z Recipes Inbox.



Reader Support

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Birthday Babies

Would you like to celebrate your birthday with us here at A to Z Recipes? We would love to help you strike up the band and light the candles on that cake.

Please send your request using this link. Tell us some basic information:

Your Name (first name required)
Where you live (city and state required)
Your birthday (month and day required)


Happy Birthday

Here are our February Birthday Babies:

1st Linda L. in Lenexa, Kansas
2nd Troy S. in Dayton, Ohio
3rd Emily in Coconut Creek, Florida
3rd Mary K. in Niceville, Florida
4th Gail in Greenville, Ohio
5th Jim D. in Washington State
5th Angela S. in Charleston, South Carolina
8th Carolann in Sharpsburg, Georgia
8th Sheila K. in Clanton, Alabama 
8th Dixie K. in Delaware, Ohio
9th Delorese S. in Dayton, Ohio
10th Sally P. in Menifee, California
11th Ruthie in Ypsilanti, Michigan
12th Bette T. in Stockton, California

13th Liz in Port Royal, Pennsylvania
14th Debbie M. in McKeesport, Pennsylvania
14th Alysia in Amston, Connecticut
16th Hal R. in Eaton, Ohio
16th Shawntel R. in Rockingham, North Carolina
16th Myrna R. in Jacksonville, Florida
16th Linda L. in Hong Kong
17th Diane in Natick, Massachusetts
18th Michelle S. in Morgan County, Tennessee
19th Rob W. in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
20th Delores M. in St. Louis, Missouri
21st Deborah H. in Denton, TX
21st Cheri W. in Ocala, Florida
21st Cindy in Beaver Dams, New York
22nd Joyce S. in Lake Placid, Florida
22nd Barbara H. in Portland, Tennessee
23rd Jim H. in Calgary, Alberta, Canada
23rd Dee C. in Kissimmee, Florida
26th RJ in Denver, Colorado
26th Kathy J. in Bethalto, Illinois
29th Mary M. in Cameron, Ohio

Only birthdays shared using the appropriate link and basic information will be considered for posting.



Crazy Corner

Honesty is the best policy

FOR ALL YOU FOLKS WHO ARE DIETING THIS NEW YEAR. ENJOY!
Remember to keep your sense of humor!!

Shared by Nancy F., Sacramento, CA

Yesterday I was buying a large bag of Purina dog chow for my dog Cody, at Wal-Mart and was about to check out. A woman behind me asked if I had a dog. On impulse, I told her no, I didn't have a dog, and that I was starting the Purina Diet again. Although I probably shouldn't, because I'd ended up in the hospital last time, but that I'd lost 50 pounds before I awakened in an intensive care ward with tubes coming out of most of my orifices and IVs in both arms. I told her that it was essentially a perfect diet and that the way that it works is to load your pants pockets with Purina nuggets and simply eat one or two every time you feel hungry and that the food is nutritionally complete so I was going to try it again. (I have to mention here that practically everyone in the line was by now enthralled with my story.) Horrified, she asked if I ended up in intensive care because the dog food poisoned me. I told her no; I stepped off a curb to sniff an Irish Setter's butt and a car hit us both. I thought the guy behind her was going to have a heart attack, he was laughing so hard! WAL-MART won't let me shop there anymore!!! 



New Entry for 2008 Dictionary...

Shared by Vicki, Sarasota, FL

Electile Dysfunction: the inability to become aroused over any of the choices for president put forth by either party in the 2008 election year.



Blonde Mortician

Shared by Ann, FL

A man who just died is delivered to a local mortuary wearing an expensive, expertly tailored black suit. 

The female blonde mortician asks the deceased's wife how she would like the body dressed. She points out that the man does look good in the black suit he is already wearing. 

The widow, however, says that she always thought her husband looked his best in blue, and that she wants him in a blue suit. She gives the blonde mortician a blank check and says, 'I don't care what it costs, but please have my husband in a blue suit for the viewing.' 

The woman returns the next day for the wake. To her delight, she finds her husband dressed in a gorgeous blue suit with a subtle chalk stripe; the suit fits him perfectly. 

She says to the mortician, 'Whatever this cost, I'm very satisfied. You did an excellent job and I'm very grateful. How much did you spend?' To her astonishment, the blonde mortician presents her with the blank check. 'There's no charge,' she says. 

'No, really, I must compensate you for the cost of that exquisite blue suit!' she says. 

'Honestly, ma'am,' the blonde says, 'it cost nothing. You see, a deceased gentleman of about your husband's size was brought in shortly after you left yesterday, and he was wearing an attractive blue suit. I asked his wife if she minded him going to his grave wearing a black suit instead, and she said it made no difference as long as he looked nice.' 

'So I just switched the heads.'

Click if you have a submission for the Crazy Corner section of A to Z Newsletters. Make sure to include your name and location for posting. Thanks!



Regional Recipes

LOUISIANA

LOW FAT PRALINE MERINGUES

This recipe is from A Trim & Terrific Louisiana Kitchen by Holly Berkowitz Clegg. 

1/2 cup dark brown sugar 
1/4 cup sugar 
3 egg whites
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice 
1/2 teaspoon vanilla 
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans 

Preheat oven to 250°F. Line several baking sheets with parchment paper. 

Combine both sugars together. In mixer, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff. Beat in sugar mixture, 1 tablespoon at a time, alternating with drops of lemon juice and vanilla. Beat until stiff and glossy. Fold in pecans. Drop by heaping tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 45 minutes. Meringue will spread during baking. 

Makes 36 Meringues 
Per Serving: 28 calories; 0 mg cholesterol; 1.0 g fat; 32.3 % of calories from fat

Click if you have a submission for the Regional Recipe section of A to Z Newsletters. Make sure to include your name and location for posting. Thanks!



Recipe Reviews

Stuffed Manicotti
Submitted by Brenda, Al
Reviewed by Patricia, Charlevoix MI
Posted May 6th, 2007

"I made this dish more than 30 years ago and during a move, lost the recipe. Thanks to Brenda it is back in my recipe box. I made the manicotti the same week it was published and fount it to be just as good now as it was years ago. Easy to make, tasty, a big hit with my family."


STUFFED MANICOTTI

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

My cousin makes this dish and it is really good.

1 box large manicotti shells
1 pound ground chuck
1 clove garlic
2 Tablespoons oil
Salt & Pepper to taste
8 oz carton cottage cheese
8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
1 can spaghetti sauce

Cook shells following pkg directions but not too done, drain set aside.

Sauté chuck, garlic, salt & pepper until well browned. Drain. Add cottage cheese and 1/2 of the cheese. Mix well. Stuff shells. Put in casserole dish and pour spaghetti sauce over all add rest of cheese.

Bake 30 minutes at 350°.

If you try a recipe from any posted, and have a recipe review, please send me an email using this Recipe Review link and make sure to include the following to qualify for posting:

Recipe title
Name of submitter (who submitted the recipe?)
Your name and location for posting (required!)
Date recipe was posted (date of newsletter)
Your comments (how was it? is it a "keeper"?)

I will post all qualifying recipe reviews here.



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Easy Layered Cabbage Casserole
EASY LAYERED CABBAGE CASSEROLE

~Submitted by Treva, NC

Prep Time: 15 min 
Total Time: 1 hr 15 min 
Makes: 8 servings 

8 cups finely shredded green cabbage 
2 medium onions, chopped 
1/4 cup Zesty Italian Dressing 
1/4 tsp. salt 
1 lb. lean ground beef 
2 cups instant white rice, uncooked 
2 cans (10-3/4 oz. each) condensed tomato soup 
2 soup cans water 

PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Cook and stir cabbage and onions in dressing in large skillet on medium heat 5 to 10 min. or until tender. Stir in salt. 

Remove from pan; set aside. ADD meat to skillet; cook until browned, stirring occasionally. Stir in rice, soup and water until well blended. Layer 1/3 of the cabbage mixture and 1/2 of the meat mixture in 13x9-inch baking dish. Repeat layers; top with remaining cabbage mixture. Cover with foil. BAKE 1 hour or until heated through. 

KRAFT KITCHENS TIPS 
How to Easily Shred Cabbage Quarter a head of cabbage, then cut away the core. Stack the leaves and cut crosswise into thin strips. 

Food Facts A 1-lb. head of cabbage will yield 3-1/2 to 4 cups of shredded cabbage. 

NUTRITION INFORMATION 
Nutrition (per serving) Calories 260 Total fat 8g Saturated fat 2.5g Cholesterol 35mg Sodium 650mg Carbohydrate 35g Dietary fiber 3g 
Sugars 10g Protein 15g

Source: http://kraft.com


Roasted Pork With Sage Berry Dressing
ROASTED PORK WITH SAGE BERRY DRESSING

~Submitted by Treva, NC

POINTS® Value: 7
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 15 min
Cooking Time: 90 min
Level of Difficulty: Moderate 

This elegant dish is the perfect entrée for dinner guests. They'll marvel at both the gorgeous presentation and fabulous taste. We had roast pork last Sunday and made sandwiches with leftovers. Taste better the next day!

1 spray cooking spray 
1/2 cup dried cranberries 
1/3 cup apple cider 
1 tsp canola oil 
2 medium onions, or large shallots, chopped (about 1/4 cup) 
1/8 oz fresh sage, 2 Tbsp 
1 & 1/4 Tbsp seasoned bread crumbs, coarse 
3 pound lean pork loin, boneless roast 
1/2 cup spinach, fresh leaves 
(garlic powder-optional)

Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat broiler pan with cooking spray and set aside.

In a small bowl, combine cranberries and cider. Cover and microwave on HIGH for 1 minute; set aside.

Meanwhile, heat canola oil in medium skillet over medium-low heat; cook onions and sage until onions are softened, about 5 minutes.

In a large bowl, mix together bread crumbs, cranberry mixture and onion mixture.

Place pork on cutting board. Cut loin in half almost, but not all the way, through. Open like a book so loin lies almost flat. Place spinach leaves over one half of loin. Place stuffing on top of spinach. “Close” the other half of loin on top of “filled” half and tie loin with cooking string to secure.

Place pork on broiler pan and roast until golden and meat thermometer registers 160°F, about 1 hour 20 minutes. Remove from oven and cover with foil; let stand for 10 minutes. Carve into 1-inch thick slices, remove string and serve. (Note: Cooking the pork on a broiler pan allows excess fat to drip away. Line the bottom of the pan with foil for easy cleanup.) 

Note: use brown 'n bags to cook roast then pour up the drippings and remove the fat when cold. You will have a great Au Jus. 
If using rice with meal; cook in rice using 1 part rice, 2 part liquid. 
For non-stick fluffy long grain rice, boil 5 minutes, add lid, remove from heat. Ready in 15 minutes.

Source: weightwatchers


WEIGHT WATCHERS BAKED MACARONI & CHEESE

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

1 tbsp margarine
1 cup chopped onion
1-1/2 cup raw macaroni, cooked
1-1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 - 12 ounce can evaporated skim milk
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 tsp salt
dash ground red pepper
1/2 tsp paprika

Preheat oven to 350º . In small nonstick skillet, heat margarine until bubbly and hot; add onion and saute until translucent (do not brown). In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients well. Pour into baking dish sprayed with Pam. Sprinkle with paprika and dot with 1 tsp margarine. Bake at 20 to 25 minutes or until set.

Please note this recipe has been doubled and is now considered 4 servings. Half of the recipe provides the following: 2 protein servings, 1-1/2 bread exchange, 1/2 vegetable exchange, 1 fat exchange, and 3/4 milk exchange.


CHICKEN PENNE

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 
2-3 cloves of garlic sliced thin 
1 large red onion, halved lengthwise, cut into thin wedges 
2 cups 1/2-inch pieces peeled seeded butternut squash 
3/4 cup canned low-salt chicken broth 
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 
salt and pepper to taste 
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces 
8 ounces penne pasta cooked and drained 
1 bunch spinach, thick stems discarded, washed and dried 

Heat oil in large deep skillet over medium-low heat. Add garlic and light brown, remove and set aside, brown chicken and also set aside. Add onion and squash; cook until onion is golden and squash is tender, stirring occasionally, about 25 minutes. Add broth; bring to boil. Add chicken, garlic and spinach cook until spinach is wilted and chicken is done, add penne, heat about 5 minutes. Let it sit for about five minutes covered to absorb some of the liquid.

Makes 4 servings.


LOW-FAT GRILLED VEGETABLES ON FOCACCIA

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or wine vinegar 
2 tablespoons water 
1 tablespoon olive oil 
1 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed 
2 large red and/or yellow sweet peppers 
2 medium zucchini, halved crosswise and sliced thinly lengthwise 
1 medium eggplant, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices 
1 12-inch round purchased focaccia 
2 ounces soft goat cheese (chevre) 
2 ounces fat-free cream cheese 

For the Balsamic-Vinaigrette, combine balsamic vinegar or wine vinegar, water, olive oil, and oregano, in a small bowl. Cut sweet peppers in quarters. Remove stems, membranes, and seeds. Arrange all vegetables on grill rack directly over medium-hot coals; brush with Balsamic-Vinaigrette. Grill, uncovered, until slightly charred, turning occasionally (allow 8 to 10 minutes for peppers and eggplant, and 5 to 6 minutes for zucchini). Cut peppers into strips. Cut focaccia in half crosswise. Split halves into two layers horizontally to form four pieces total. Combine goat cheese and cream cheese, and spread over bottom layers of focaccia; top with some of the sweet pepper, zucchini, and eggplant; place top halves of focaccia over vegetables. To serve, cut each focaccia half into four wedges. Makes 8 main-dish servings. Tip: If you like, use 1/3 cup purchased, bottled Italian dressing instead of preparing the Balsamic Vinaigrette. 

Makes 8 main-dish servings 


TANGY LEMONADE PIE

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

1 pkg. (3 oz.) sugar free lemon gelatin - she used regular
1 pkg. (8 oz.) reduced fat cream cheese, cubed - she used regular
1 ¾ tsp. sugar free lemonade drink mix - Crystal Light - or any lemonade drink mix
1 graham cracker crust - 8" - can use reduced fat
6 tbl. Cool Whip - can use reduced fat

Prepare gelatin according to package directions. Refrigerate until almost set. Transfer to a blender or food processor. Add the cream cheese and lemonade mix; cover and process until smooth. Pour into crust. Refrigerate overnight. Serve with whipped topping.


LOW-FAT SPINACH DIP

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

1 cup drained spinach 
1 cup low fat cottage cheese 
1/4 cup fresh basil 
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 

Process in your blender until smooth; refrigerate at least two hours before serving. 


LOW FAT PORTUGUESE CABBAGE SOUP

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

1 small head cabbage -- cut fine
3 ~ 15.5 oz. cans Italian stewed tomatoes
1 medium onion -- sliced thin
4 ribs celery -- sliced thin
2 small green peppers -- cut in small cubes
2 teaspoons beef onion soup mix -- dry
1/4 cup brown sugar
basil, salt and pepper -- to taste
water -- to cover

Cook all ingredients in water until vegetables are tender. Add water if more liquid is needed.


WEIGHT WATCHERS BROCCOLI CHICKEN CASSEROLE

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

YIELD:10 SERVINGS 
WW POINTS: 5 

1 12-oz pkg. Heart Healthy whole wheat uncooked yolk-free noodles 
4 cups chicken thighs, poached and cubed 
1 package (32 ounces) frozen broccoli florets, thawed 
1 large onion, chopped 
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) each reduced-fat reduced-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup. undiluted and broccoli cheese soup
1 cup fat-free evaporated milk 
1 cup fat free cheddar cheese 
2 teaspoon dried basil 
1/2 teaspoon salt 
1/4 teaspoon pepper 
Paprika, optional 

Cook noodles according to package directions; drain and place in a large bowl. Add the chicken, broccoli and onion. In a small bowl, combine the soup, milk, cheese, basil, salt and pepper. Pour over chicken mixture and stir until combined. Transfer to a 2-qt. baking dish coated with nonstick cooking spray. Cover and bake at 350º for 35 to 40 minutes or until bubbly. Sprinkle with paprika if desired. 


WEIGHT WATCHERS CHICKEN TETRAZZINI

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

This creamy Italian specialty will easily become a family favorite. Cut back on prep time by buying already cooked chicken breast and sliced, fresh mushrooms from your supermarket's salad bar. 

12 oz uncooked whole-wheat pasta, use whole-wheat egg noodles 
1 serving cooking spray (5 one-second sprays per serving) 
2 Tbsp fat-free margarine, divided 
3 Tbsp vinegar, tarragon-flavored 
1 pound mushroom(s), sliced (about 6 cups) 
1 1/2 cup fat-free chicken broth 
1 cup fat-free skim milk 
4 tsp raw arrowroot 
1 tsp dried thyme 
1 tsp dried tarragon 
1/2 tsp table salt, or more to taste 
1/4 tsp black pepper, or more to taste 
1/4 cup fat-free sour cream 
3 cup cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces 
1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed 
3 Tbsp Kraft Non-Fat Grated Cheese Topping, or other brand 

Cook noodles according to package directions with added salt; drain and set aside. Preheat oven to 375ºF. Coat a 9 X 13-inch pan with cooking spray. Heat 1 tablespoon of margarine and vinegar together in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms; cook until soft, stirring, about 5 minutes. Remove mushrooms and set aside. Whisk broth, milk and arrowroot together in a medium-size saucepan until smooth. Stir in remaining tablespoon of margarine; set over medium heat. Cook, stirring with a wooden spoon, until thickened and boiling, about 8 minutes. Stir in thyme, tarragon, salt and pepper. Remove sauce from heat; stir in sour cream. Combine cooked noodles, chicken, mushrooms, peas and carrots, and sauce together in a large bowl. Pour into prepared pan; sprinkle with grated topping. Bake until bubbling and hot, and top is starting to brown, about 20 minutes. Slice into 8 pieces and serve. POINTS® Value | 5

Servings: 8 


GLAZED LEMON BARS

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Makes 24 servings

1 cup Reduced-Fat Bisquick® 
2 tablespoons powdered sugar 
2 tablespoons firm margarine or butter 
3/4 cup granulated sugar 
1/2 cup fat free cholesterol free egg substitute , 4 egg whites or 2 eggs
1 tablespoon Reduced-Fat Bisquick® 
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel 
2 tablespoons lemon juice 
Lemon Glaze (below) 

Heat oven to 350º. Mix 1 cup Bisquick and the powdered sugar in small bowl. Cut in margarine, using pastry blender or crisscrossing 2 knives, until mixture looks like fine crumbs. Press mixture in bottom and 1/2 inch up edges of ungreased square pan, 8 x 8 x 2 inches. Bake about 10 minutes or until light brown. Mix remaining ingredients except Lemon Glaze; pour over baked layer. Bake about 25 minutes or until set and golden brown. While warm, loosen edges from sides of pan. Spread with Lemon Glaze. Cool completely, about 1 hour. For bars, cut into 6 rows by 4 rows.

Lemon Glaze
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

Stir ingredients until smooth.

HIGH ALTITUDE (3500 to 6500 feet): Use square pan, 9 x 9 x 2 inches. Press crust in bottom only of pan. Increase bake time in step 2 to about 12 minutes.

NUTRITION FACTS: 1 Bar:; Calories 70 (Calories from Fat 10); Fat 1g (Saturated 0g); Cholesterol 0mg; Sodium 80mg; Carbohydrate 14g (Dietary Fiber 0g); Protein 1g
% DAILY VALUE:; Vitamin A 0%; Vitamin C %; Calcium 0%; Iron 0%
DIET EXCHANGES:; 1 Starch.

TIP: Here's an easy rule of thumb-one fresh lemon will give you 2 to 3 tablespoons of juice. To get the most juice out of a lemon, it should be at room temperature. Some people like to zap whole lemons in the microwave on High for about 20 seconds or so to warm them.


CHICKEN WITH GARLIC-GINGER SAUCE

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Makes 6 servings

1/4 cup fat-free cholesterol-free egg substitute , 2 egg whites or 1 egg
2 tablespoons water 
1 cup Reduced-Fat Bisquick® 
1/4 gallon garlic powder 
6 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 1/2 pounds)
Cooking spray 
4 medium cloves garlic, chopped (2 teaspoons) 
1 tablespoon chopped ginger root 
4 medium green onions, chopped (1/4 cup) 
1 tablespoon sugar 
1 tablespoon soy sauce 
1 tablespoon rice vinegar 
1 tablespoon cooking sherry, if desired 
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil 

Heat oven to 425º. Spray jelly roll pan, 15 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1 inch, with cooking spray. Beat egg product and water slightly. Mix Bisquick and garlic powder. Dip chicken into egg mixture, then coat with Bisquick mixture. Place in pan. Spray chicken with cooking spray. Bake 20 minutes. Turn chicken; spray with cooking spray. Bake about 10 minutes longer or until juice is no longer pink when centers of thickest pieces are cut. Spray 10-inch nonstick skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium-high heat. Cook garlic and gingerroot in skillet 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add remaining ingredients; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Spoon sauce over chicken. 

NUTRITION FACTS: 1 Serving:; Calories 220 (Calories from Fat 55); Fat 6g (Saturated 2g); Cholesterol 65mg; Sodium 440mg; Carbohydrate 17g (Dietary Fiber 1g); Protein 26g
% DAILY VALUE:; Vitamin A 2%; Vitamin C 2%; Calcium 4%; Iron 10%
DIET EXCHANGES:; 1 Starch; 3 Very Lean Meat; 1 Fat

TIP: Enjoy this low-fat favorite with a cool cucumber salad. Top cucumber slices with chopped red onion, a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds and a splash of red wine vinegar.


APPLESAUCE GINGERBREAD CAKE

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Makes 9 servings

2 1/4 cups Reduced-Fat Bisquick® 
1/3 cup sugar 
1/2 cup applesauce 
1/2 cup fat-free skim milk 
1/2 cup molasses 
1/4 cup fat-free cholesterol-free egg substitute , 2 egg whites or 1 egg
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 
1 teaspoon ground ginger 
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 
1 cup fat-free vanilla yogurt 
1 to 2 tablespoons chopped crystallized ginger 

Heat oven to 350º. Spray bottom only of square pan, 9 x 9 x 2 inches, with cooking spray. Beat all ingredients except yogurt and crystallized ginger with electric mixer on low speed 30 seconds, scraping bowl constantly. Beat on medium speed 3 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally. Pour into pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Serve cake warm topped with yogurt and crystallized ginger.

HIGH ALTITUDE (3500 to 6500 feet): Heat oven to 375°. Use 2 1/2 cups Bisquick, 1/4 cup sugar and 2/3 cup milk.

NUTRITION FACTS: 1 Serving:; Calories 220 (Calories from Fat 20); Fat 2g (Saturated 1g); Cholesterol 0mg; Sodium 360mg; Carbohydrate 46g (Dietary Fiber 1g); Protein 5g
% DAILY VALUE:; Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 0%; Calcium 12%; Iron 14%
DIET EXCHANGES:; 2 Starch; 1 Fruit

TIP: Crystallized ginger can be a sticky mess to chop. Spray kitchen scissors with a little cooking spray, and snip the ginger into pieces. 


ALMOST FAT FREE BROWNIES

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Serves: 16 Servings 

Ingredients: 
1/2 c Unsweetened Cocoa Powder 
4 oz Jar 
3 Egg Whites 
1 c Sugar 
1 ts Salt 
1 ts Vanilla 
1/2 c Flour 
1/4 c Nuts -- (optional) 
Prune Baby Food

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350º. Spray an 8-inch square baking pan with cooking spray. Combine all ingredients. Add nuts if desired. Bake about 30 minutes or until springy to touch. Cool on rack. Cut into 16 pieces.

Fat, about 0.3 g. per brownie.


BREAKFAST BURRITOS WITH TOMATO-BASIL TOPPING

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1 large tomato, diced
2 teaspoons finely chopped basil (or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves)
1 medium potato, peeled and shredded (about 1 cup)
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 teaspoon margarine
1 cup Egg Beaters
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 (8-inch) flour tortillas, warmed
1/3 cup shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese

In small bowl, combine tomato and basil; set aside.

In large nonstick skillet, over medium heat, sauté potato and onion in margarine until tender. Pour Egg Beaters into skillet; sprinkle with pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally until mixture is set.

Divide egg mixture evenly between tortillas; top with cheese. Fold tortillas over egg mixture. Top with tomato mixture.

Calories 226, Total Fat 6 g, Sodium 364 mg, Cholesterol 5 mg, Saturated Fat 1 g, Dietary Fiber 2 g

Source: Egg Beaters


CHOCOLATE BREAKFAST SHAKE

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

3 cups Egg Beaters
1/2 cup chocolate-flavored syrup
1/3 cup nonfat dry milk
2 teaspoons wheat germ

In electric blender container, blend Egg Beaters, chocolate syrup, dry milk and wheat germ until well combined. Serve immediately.

Calories 184, Total Fat 0 g, Sodium 314 mg, Cholesterol 1 mg, Saturated Fat 0 g, Dietary Fiber 0 g.

Source: Egg Beaters


ITALIAN OMELET

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1/4 cup chopped tomato
1/4 cup (1-ounce) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1 teaspoon margarine
1 cup Egg Beaters
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

In small bowl, combine tomato, cheese, basil and oregano; set aside.

In 8-inch nonstick skillet, over medium heat, melt margarine. Pour Egg Beaters into skillet. Cook, lifting edges to allow uncooked portion to flow underneath. When almost set, spoon tomato mixture over half of omelet. Fold other half over tomato mixture; cover and continue to cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Slide onto serving plate. Garnish with parsley.

Calories 119, Total Fat 4 g, Sodium 286 mg
Cholesterol 8 mg, Saturated Fat 2 g, Dietary Fiber 0 g

Source: Egg Beaters


FRENCH TOAST STICKS

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1 cup Egg Beaters
1/3 cup skim milk
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons margarine, divided
16 (4x1x1-inch) sticks day-old white bread
Powdered sugar, optional
Maple-flavored syrup, optional

In shallow bowl, combine Egg Beaters, milk , cinnamon and vanilla.

In large nonstick griddle or skillet, over medium-high heat, melt 2 teaspoons margarine. Dip bread sticks in egg mixture to coat; transfer to griddle. Cook sticks on each side until golden, adding remaining margarine as needed. Dust lightly with powdered sugar and serve with syrup if desired.

Calories 217, Total Fat 7 g, Sodium 382 mg, Cholesterol 2 mg, Saturated Fat 1 g, Dietary Fiber 0 g

Source: Egg Beaters


POCKET FULL OF JELLY MUFFINS

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

2 cups all-purpose flout
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup margarine, melted
3/4 cup orange juice
6 tablespoons Egg Beaters, divided
2 teaspoons grated orange peel
14 cup sliced almonds, finely chopped
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/3 cup jelly, any flavor

In small bowl, combine flour, baking powder and baking soda; set aside.

In large bowl, combine honey and margarine; blend in orange juice, 4 tablespoons Egg Beaters and orange peel. Stir in flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into 12 lightly greased 2-1/2-inch muffin-pan cups. Brush remaining Egg Beaters over tops of batter. In small bowl, combine almonds, sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over batter. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or until lightly browned. 

While muffins are still warm, poke hole in top center, halfway into each muffin; Fill each with a teaspoonful of jelly. Serve warm

Calories 193, Total Fat 5 g, Sodium 88 mg, Cholesterol 0 mg, Saturated Fat 1 g, Dietary Fiber 1 g

Source: Egg Beaters


HONEY-DIJON SALAD WITH SHRIMP

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

8 cups torn romaine lettuce leaves
1 pound large shrimp, cleaned and cooked
3 cups sliced mushrooms
2 cups sliced carrots
1/2 cup Egg Beaters
1/4 cup corn oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1.4 cup Dijon-style mustard
1/4 cup honey
2 cups plain croutons, optional
Carrot curls, for garnish

In large bowl, whisk together Egg Beaters, oil, vinegar, mustard and honey until well blended. To serve, pour dressing over salad, tossing until well coated. Top with croutons if desired. Garnish with carrot curls.

Calories 252, Total Fat (with croutons) 9 g, Sodium 538 mg, Cholesterol 111 mg, Saturated Fat 1 g, Dietary Fiber 2 g

Source: Egg Beaters


SPINACH-CHEDDAR SQUARES

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1-1/2 cups Egg Beaters
1/4 cup skim milk
1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup plain dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup shredded fat-free Cheddar cheese, divided
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
1/4 cup diced pimientos

In medium bowl, combine Egg Beaters, milk, onion flakes, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder and pepper; set aside

Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly into bottom of lightly greased 8x8x2-inch baking dish. Top with 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese and spinach. Pour egg mixture evenly over spinach; Top with remaining Cheddar cheese and pimientos.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Calories 39, Total Fat 0 g, Sodium 134 mg, Cholesterol 1 mg, Saturated Fat 0 g, Dietary Fiber 0 g

Source: Egg Beaters


HUEVOS RANCHWICH

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1/4 cup Egg Beaters
1 teaspoon diced green chilies
1 whole wheat hamburger roll, split and toasted
1 tablespoon thick and chunky salsa, heated
1 tablespoon shredded reduced-fat Cheddar and Monterey jack cheese blend.

On lightly greased griddle or skillet, pour Egg Beaters into lightly greased 4-inch egg ring or biscuit cutter. Sprinkle with chilies. Cook 2 to 3 minutes or until bottom of egg patty is set. Remove egg ring and turn egg patty over. Cook 1 to 2 minutes longer or until done.

To serve, place egg patty on bottom of roll. Top with salsa, cheese and roll top.

Calories 143, Total Fat 2 g, Sodium 411 mg, Cholesterol 6 mg, Saturated Fat 1 g, Dietary Fiber 0 g

Source: Egg Beaters


STUFFED SHELLS FLORENTINE

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1 cup (about 4 ounces) coarsely chopped mushrooms
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon margarine
1 (16-ounce) container fat-free cottage cheese
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
1/2 cup Egg Beaters
24 jumbo pasta shells, cooked in unsalted water and drained
1 (15-1/4-ounce) jar reduced-sodium spaghetti sauce, divided

In large skillet, over medium-high heat, sauté mushrooms, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning and pepper in margarine until tender. Remove form heat; stir in cottage cheese, spinach and Egg Beaters. Spoon mixture into shells. 

Spread 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce in bottom of 13x9x2-inch baking dish; arrange shells over sauce. Top with remaining sauce; cover. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until hot.

Calories 229, Total Fat 5 g, Sodium 549 mg, Cholesterol 3 mg, Saturated Fat 1 g, Dietary Fiber 3 g

Source: Egg Beaters


SOFT APPLE CIDER COOKIES

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup margarine, softened
1/2 cup apple cider
1/2 cup Egg Beaters
2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 medium apples, peeled and diced (about 1-1/2 cups)
3/4 cup almonds, chopped
Cider Glaze (recipe follows)

In large bowl, with electric mixer at medium speed, beat sugar and margarine until creamy. Add cider and Beaters; beat until smooth. With electric mixer at low speed, gradually blend in flour, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Stir in apples and almonds.

Drop dough by tablespoonfuls, 2 inches apart, onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from sheets; cool on wire racks. Drizzle with Cider Glaze.

CIDER GLAZE: In small bowl, combine 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons apple cider until smooth.

Calories 80, Total Fat 3 g, Sodium 50 mg, Cholesterol 0 mg, Saturated Fat 0 g, Dietary Fiber 0 g

Source: Egg Beaters


CHEWY LEMON-HONEY COOKIES

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

2 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 cup honey
1/3 cup margarine, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
1/4 cup Egg Beaters
Lemon Glaze, optional

In small bowl, combine flour and baking soda; set aside.

In large bowl, with electric mixer at medium speed, beat honey, margarine, granulated sugar and lemon peel until creamy. Add Egg Beaters; beat until smooth. Gradually stir in flour mixture until blended.

Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls, 2 inches apart, onto lightly greased baking sheets. Bake 350 degrees for 7 to 8 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from sheets, cool completely on wire racks. Drizzle with Lemon Glaze if desired.

LEMON GLAZE: In small bowl, combine 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons lemon juice until smooth.

Calories 52, Total Fat (1 cookie without glaze) 1 g, Sodium 61 mg, Cholesterol 0 mg, Saturated Fat 0 g, Dietary Fiber 0 g

Source: Egg Beaters


CREAMY VEGETABLE-CHEESE DIP

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
1/3 cup chopped scallions
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped green peppers
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup nonfat sour cream

Place the cottage cheese, scallions, parsley, peppers, garlic and lemon juice in a food processor or blender. Process until smooth. Pour into a small bowl. Whisk in the sour cream. Serve chilled, with parsley garnish.

Per tablespoon 12 calories, 0.08 g fat (7% of calories), 34 mg sodium

Source: Quick and Healthy Cooking


GAZPACHO

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1/2 cup chopped fresh or canned tomatoes
1 cup chopped sweet peppers
2 cups peeled, seeded and chopped cucumbers
1 cup chopped yellow onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups tomato juice

In a small bowl, reserve 1/2 cup of the tomatoes, 1/3 cup peppers, 2/3 cup cucumbers and 1/3 cup onion. Place all remaining ingredients in a food processor or blender; puree until very smooth. Pour the puree into a large glass bowl and stir in reserved ingredients. Cover bowl and chill until ready to serve. Garnish with thin slices of lemon and sprigs of parsley.

Per serving: 56 calories, 0.4 g fat (5% of calories), 123 mg sodium, 3 g dietary fiber

Source: Quick and Healthy Cooking


LONDON BROIL

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

2 cloves garlic, minced
Pinch of ginger
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
1 bay leaf
2 teaspoons low-sodium Worcestershire sauce
1 lb. flank steak, about 1 inch thick

In a flat glass baking dish, combine the garlic, ginger, allspice, thyme, mustard, bay leaf and Worcestershire. Add the meat and rub the marinade over the surface. Marinate for 1/2 hour, turning the meat once. Grill meat until done, 8 minutes on each side (for rare). Carve into thin slices and serve.

Per serving: 223 calories, 5.9 g fat (25% of calories) 89 mg cholesterol, 190 mg sodium

Source: Quick and Healthy Cooking


ORANGE-CHOCOLATE MUFFINS

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

3 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup sugar
2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
2 beaten eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup cooking oil
1/3 cup frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
2 teaspoon finely shredded orange peel
1 cup miniature semisweet chocolate pieces
Frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed (optional)

Grease twenty-four 2-1/2-inch muffin cups or line the cups with paper bake cups. Set the muffin pans aside.

In a large mixing bowl stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Make a well in the center. In another mixing bowl stir together eggs, milk, oil, thawed orange juice concentrate, and orange pee. Add all at once to flour mixture. Stir just until moistened (batter should be lumpy). Stir in chocolate pieces.

Fill prepared muffin cups 2/3 full. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until golden. remove from pans; serve warm. If desired, brush muffin tops with a little orange juice concentrate.

Per serving: 170 calories, 3 g pro.,. 24 g carbo., 7 g total fat (2 g sat. fat), 19 mg cholesterol, 1 g dietary fiber, 91 mg sodium

Source: Fit, Fresh & Fast


RED ONION SALSA

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

2 medium red onions, finely chopped (1-1/2 cups)
1 medium tomato, finely chopped (3/4 cup) 
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/4 cup chopped green onions (3 medium)
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)

Mix all ingredients in glass or plastic bowl. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours.

Fat 0 g, Saturated 0 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 10 mg, Carbohydrate 1 g, dietary Fiber 0 g, Protein 0 g

Source: Betty Crocker Low-Fat Cooking


PARMESAN PERCH

~Submitted by Pat, Minden, NV

1 pound ocean perch or other lean fish fillets
2 tablespoons dry bread crumbs
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Dash or pepper
1 Tablespoon reduced-calorie margarine, melted
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

move oven rack to position slightly above middle of oven. Heat oven to 500 degrees. Spray rectangular pan 13x9x2 inches, with nonstick cooking spray. If fish fillets are large, cut into 4 serving pieces. Mix remaining ingredients except margarine and parsley.

Brush one side of fish with margarine; dip into crumb mixture. Place fish, coated sides up, in pan. Bake uncovered about 10 minutes or until fish flakes easily with fork. Sprinkle with parsley.

Fat 3 g, Saturated 1 g, Cholesterol 60 mg, Sodium 180 mg, Carbohydrate 3 g, Dietary Fiber 0 g, Protein 22 g 

Source: Betty Crocker Low-Fat Cooking


NO-FAT MUSHROOM GRAVY

~Submitted by Bill Anatooskin, Burnaby, BC, Canada
Author of "From Uncle Bill's Kitchen"
Creator of the Dilly Core, a handy new kitchen tool.
Dilly Core

Makes about 4 cups 

3 cups chicken broth, no-fat or regular 
1 10 oz. can of bits and pieces mushrooms including liquid 
1/4 tsp. black pepper 
1 tsp. granulated garlic powder 
1 Tbsp. chicken soup base or 1 chicken bouillon cube 
2 tsp. soy sauce 
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 
4 Tbsp. instant potato flakes (Idaho potato flakes are best) 

In a large frying pan, add broth and mushrooms including liquid and bring to boil. Add pepper, garlic powder, chicken soup base, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce and bring back to boil, stirring occasionally. Add potato flakes, one tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until gravy thickens to a desired consistency. (Add more flakes if required.) Gravy will thicken a bit when it sits for a while. If gravy is too thick, add more broth or some water and reheat. NOTE: You may wish to add some pan juices from the roast that you have cooked. Add about 1/2 cup of pan juices. You may also have to add more potato flakes. THIS GRAVY WILL NOT BE A NO-FAT GRAVY. 

Give this a try, with or without pan juices, you just may like it.


ITALIAN LENTIL AND BARLEY SOUP

~Submitted by Lou, FL

I have made this a couple of times and really like it. Easy to do and not full of carbs and fat. Try it, you'll like it. I make mine on top of the stove instead of the crockpot.

1 cup lentils 
1/3 cup pearl barley 
1 cup carrots (chopped) 
1 cup celery (chopped) 
1 cup onions (chopped) 
2 garlic cloves (minced) 
1/2 teaspoon dried basil 
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme 
1 bay leaf 
3 1/2 cups broth 
2 1/2 cups water 
14 1/4 ounces Italian-style tomatoes or regular stewed tomatoes or crushed tomatoes 
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional) 
2 tablespoons cider vinegar (optional) 

Sort through lentils to remove debris and shriveled beans, then rinse.

Add lentils to crock pot, along with barley, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, dried herbs and bay leaf. 

Pour in broth, water, and tomatoes. 

Cover and cook on low heat for 12 to 14 hours, or on high heat for 5 to 6 hours. 

Discard bay leaf and just before serving stir in parsley and vinegar (if using.) 


SUNSHINE CHICKEN

~Submitted by Lou, FL

In my mix of recipes I found this. I took it from a magazine somewhere, some time. I haven't done it yet, but it looks interesting with a lot of possibilities for change.

Ingredients:

1 package (3 oz.) sugar-free lemon-flavored gelatin 
4 Tablespoons butter, melted 
2 Tablespoons prepared mustard 
1 teaspoon garlic salt 
4 large boneless skinless breasts halves 
3 Tablespoons thinly sliced almonds 

Preheat oven to 350°F.

In a small bowl combine gelatin, melted butter, mustard, garlic, salt and pepper. Brush over both sides of the chicken breasts and place in an ungreased baking dish. Sprinkle almonds on top of chicken. Cover and bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes. Basting once. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes longer or until done.

Makes 4 servings, 1 carbohydrate gram per serving.


PORTOBELLO GRAVY

~Submitted by Lou, FL

This is great stuff. I used all Portobello's as they were on special. I also left out the sage. I used it over my oven fried chicken, pork and a small beef roast. Made it taste so much better, but then I would eat mushrooms on my cold cereal !!!!

This recipe is a tried-and-true favorite from EatingWell -- and it's low in saturated fat, low in cholesterol, and low in carbs, too.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups chopped cleaned portobello or shiitake mushrooms (they have the best flavor, but substitute if you must)
2 1/4 cups vegetable broth
3 tablespoons tamari or reduced-sodium soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1/8 teaspoon crumbled dried sage
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring often, until they begin to release their juices, about 10 minutes. 

2. Add broth, tamari (or soy sauce), thyme and sage; simmer for 10 minutes. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir into the sauce and simmer, stirring often, until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes more. Season with pepper. If you prefer a smooth gravy, pass it through a fine sieve (discard mushrooms and onions). Serve hot.


WHITE BEAN AND SPINACH PIZZA

~Submitted by Leasa, IA

Quick AND healthy! What more could you ask for!

1/2 C sun dried tomato halves (not oil packed)
1 (15-16 oz) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
2 med cloves garlic, finely chpd
1 pkg (10 oz) pre-baked pizza shell (12 inch)
1/4 t dried oregano
1 C firmly packed fresh spinach leaves, thinly sliced or torn into small pieces
1/2 C shredded reduced fat Colby-Monterey Jack cheese blend (2 oz)

Heat oven to 425°. Pour enough boiling water over sun dried tomatoes to cover. Let stand 10 mins. Drain, cut into thin strips and set aside.

In food processor, place beans and garlic. Process until smooth. Spread beans over pizza crust. Sprinkle with oregano, tomatoes, spinach and cheese. Place on ungreased baking sheet.

Bake about 10 mins or until cheese is melted.

8 servings

1 serving: Calories, 190, Total Fat, 4 g, Cholesterol, 10 mg, Sodium, 310 mg, Carbs, 30 g, , Protein, 10 g

Source: Eat Better America


EASY SPANISH RICE
(lighter version)

~Submitted by Leasa, IA

6 servings

1 C uncooked regular rice
1 med onion, chpd
2 1/2 C water
1 1/2 t salt (if desired)
3/4 t chili powder
1/8 t garlic powder
1 8oz can tomato sauce (I use no salt)
1 small green pepper, chpd, about 1/2 C

In a 10 inch skillet, spray with "Pam". Cook rice and onion over med heat, stirring frequently, until rice is golden brown and onion is tender. Stir in remaining ingredients. Heat to boiling, reduce heat. Cover and simmer about 30 mins, stirring occasionally until rice is tender.

Per serving: 26 calories

Source: Sharon, CA


CHICKEN POMODORO WITH TOMATO BASIL GARLIC

~Submitted by Leasa, IA

Serves 4

2 t olive oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
4 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 - 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, no salt added
4 t Mrs Dash Tomato Basil Garlic seasoning 
1 t Mrs Dash Garlic and Herb seasoning
3 C cooked pasta

Heat oil and brown chicken over medium heat, about 10 mins, turning once. Add remaining ingreds. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 15 mins, until chicken is cooked through. Serve over pasta.

Calories: 326, Saturated Fat, 1 g, Unsaturated Fat, 3 g, Cholesterol, 66 mg, Sodium, 312 mg, Potassium, 689 mg, Carbs, 37 g, Fiber, 3 g, Protein, 34 g

**note** Of course I had to put some shredded low fat mozzarella on top of the chicken, so that will change the percentages..opps! Thin spaghetti works well for this. Serve with a lettuce wedge with low fat dressing of choice. I really like the Wish Bone spritzers.

Source: Mrs Dash


CROCK POT CHICKEN

~Submitted by Leasa, IA

This is a WW recipe that totally intrigued me. I never thought about putting cabbage and chicken together!

4 Servings
WW Points - 5 points

4 - 5 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 small cabbage, quartered
1 lb pkg of baby carrots
2 - 14 1/2 oz cans Mexican style tomatoes (Ro-Tel)

Place all ingredients in a crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours.

Calories: 266, Fat, 3 g, Fiber, 4g, Carbs, 27g, Cholesterol, 40mg, Sodium, 970mg, Protein, 34g
(You could sub the salt free diced tomatoes and add your own seasonings)

Source: Nancys


EASY PORK CHOPS

~Submitted by Leasa, IA

Another WW recipe from Nancy's

6 servings
Points: 4

6 lean pork chops
1 C unsweetened applesauce
1/4 C lite soy sauce
1/8 t onion powder
1/8 t pepper
1/8 t salt (optional)

Brown chops on both sides. Place in shallow casserole dish. Combine remaining ingreds and spoon evenly over chops. Cover and bake at 350° for 45 mins. Remove cover and bake an additional 15 mins or until chops are tender.

Calories: 187, Fat, 7g, Fiber, 1g, Carbs, 5g, Cholesterol, 61mg, Sodium, 283, Protein, 25g

**I'd probably use some grated fresh onion, and add some garlic


UP-TO-DATE CARROT CAKE

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

Carrot cake never seems to go out of style and this version certainly fits today’s healthier lifestyle. It is easy to make, and much lighter and more nutritious than many older recipes.

1 1/4 cups each all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour
1 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon each, baking powder, salt and ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon each, baking soda and ground nutmeg
1 1/4 cups milk
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1/3 cup butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 cups shredded carrots (about 3)
icing sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 10-inch Bundt pan or a 13x9-inch metal baking pan. In a bowl, combine the flours, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, dinger, baking soda and nutmeg. Combine milk and yogurt; set aside.

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer beat butter, sugar egg and vanilla until creamy. Using a wooden spoon, stir in carrots. Stir in flour mixture alternately with milk mixture, making 3 additions of flour and 2 of milk, just until blended. 

Spread into prepared pan, smoothing top. Bake for about 55 minutes for the Bundt pan or 40 minutes for rectangle, until tester inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool in pan on rack for 15 minutes. Invert cake onto rack (turn over if desired). Let cool completely. Sprinkle with icing sugar just before serving.

Makes 12 servings.

Nutritional value per serving: 239 calories, 5 g protein; 41 g carbohydrates; 3 g fiber; 7 g fat; 334 mg sodium; 8%/87 mg calcium


HONEY OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIES

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

1 1/2 cups raisins
1 cup milk
2 cups whole wheat flour
2 cups quick-cooking rolled oats
2 teaspoons each: baking powder and ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup liquid honey
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly butter 2 large baking sheets or line with parchment paper. Soak raisins in milk; set aside. In a bowl, combine flour, oats, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. in a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter, sugar and honey until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla until pale and creamy.

Stir in flour mixture alternately with milk mixture, making 3 additions of flour and 2 of milk , just until blended.

Drop heaping tablespoons of batter onto prepared baking sheets at least 2 inches apart. Bake for about 15 minutes, rotating pans halfway, until golden around the edges u\yet soft in the centre. Let cool for 3 minutes; transfer cookies to a rack to cool. Repeat with remaining dough.

Bakes cookies can be layered between waxed or parchment paper in an airtight container and stored atd room temperature for up to 3 days.

Makes about 4 dozen cookies.

Nutritional value per cookie: 102 calories; 2 g protein; 17 g carbohydrates; 1 g fiber; 4 g fat; 95 mg sodium; 2%/21 mg calcium


ROAST BEEF DINNER SALAD

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

10 cups torn or baby Romaine lettuce
8 ounces thinly sliced roast beef, cut into strips*
1 cup chopped cooked or thawed green beans
1 cup crumbled old Cheddar cheese
1 cup grape tomatoes, halved if large
1 cup croutons

Dressing:
1 cup milk
1/2 cup mayonnaise (light or regular)
2 tablespoons each : Dijon mustard and prepared horseradish
1/4 teaspoon each: granulated sugar and dried thyme
pinch each: salt and pepper
1/4 cup red or white wine vinegar

Dressing: In a bowl whisk together milk, mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, sugar, thyme, salt and pepper; gradually whisk in vinegar. Let stand for 5 minutes or until thickened.

In a large bowl, toss lettuce with about 1/2 cup of dressing to coat. Divide among serving plates; top with roast beef, green beans, cheese and tomatoes. Drizzle with more dressing and sprinkle with croutons.

Yield 4 servings.

*Use either left over cooked roast beef or buy from a deli.

Nutritional value per serving: 338 calories; 25 g protein; 18 g carbohydrates; 4 g fiber; 20 g fat; 996 mg sodium; 33%/365 calcium

For the adventurous: Use extra-hot horseradish in dressing. Use blue cheese instead of Cheddar and ad 1/2 cup sauteed mushrooms to the salad. 


HEARTY MUSHROOM BARLEY PILAF

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

1 pound mushrooms, quartered
1 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 carrots, diced
1 onion chopped
2 teaspoons roasted garlic seasoning blend
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup pearl barley
1 can lentils, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
lemon wedges

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Spry rimmed baking sheet with canola oil cooking spray.

Place mushrooms on prepared baking sheet in single layer. Roast in center of oven for 15 to 16 minutes, stirring once. Set aside.

In large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat; cook carrots,. onions and seasoning for 6 to 8 minutes or until vegetables soften. Stir in chicken broth, 2 1/2 cups water and barley. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer. Cook, covered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until barley is tender and almost all the liquid is absorbed. Gently stir in mushrooms and lentils. Turn heat off. Let stand covered for 5 minutes.

Gently stir parsley into barley mixture. Serve garnish with lemon wedges.

Makes 8 servings.

Per cup: 190 calories; 2.5 g fat; 300 mg sodium; 33 g carbohydrates; 5 g fibre; 8 g protein.


CHICKEN TOSTADAS

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

3 tortillas – (whole grain chipotle & red pepper), each cut into quarters.
1 can (8 ounces) chunk chicken breast, drained
1 can refried beans
2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
3/4 cup white corn and black been salsa – mild
1/4 cup drained roasted red pepper strips
Arrange oven racks with one in top third and the other in bottom third of oven. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lay tortillas in single layer on two baking sheets. Put one baking sheet on each oven rack. Bake for 6 to 7 minutes or until crisp. Set aside.

Using fingers, gently pull chicken apart into shreds. Set aside.

Spread each tortilla with generous 2 tablespoons refried beans. Place a small mound of lettuce on each tortilla. Spread each with 1 tablespoons salsa. Divide chicken among tostadas. Top with red pepper strips. If desired, garnish with coriander. Serve with sour cream, shredded Cheddar cheese and sliced green onion, if desired.

Makes 6 servings.

Per two piece serving: 210 calories; 3 g fat; 710 mg sodium; 30 g carbohydrates; 4 g fiber; 15 g protein.


TASTY COLORS COUSCOUS SALAD

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

1 cup whole wheat couscous
1 cup diced celery
1 cup shredded carrots
1 sweet red pepper, diced
1 can diced ham, drained
1 can peaches and cream corn, drained
1/2 cup soy and ginger dressing
2 green onions, sliced

In saucepan, bring 1 cup water to boil. Add couscous, stir and cover. Remove from heat. Let stand for 5 minutes.

Fluff couscous with a fork. Transfer to large bowl. Cool for 10 minutes.

Add celery, carrots, red pepper, ham, corn, dressing and green onions. Toss gently to combine.

Makes 6 servings.

Per generous 1 cup serving: 210 calories; 2.3 g fat; 390 mg sodium
36 g carbohydrates; 4 g fiber; 12 g protein.


QUICK BROCCOLI AND CHEDDAR QUICHE

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

4 eggs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper
1 cup finely crushed thin whole wheat crackers
2 cups frozen broccoli florets, thawed, drained
and chopped if large
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly butter a 9-inch deep dish glass pie plate. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until blended. Whisk in flour, milk, mustard, salt and pepper. Stir in crackers and 3/4 cup of the cheese and pour into prepared pie plate. Sprinkle broccoli into filling, pressing to submerge. Arrange tomato halves, cut side up on top and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake for about 30 minutes or until puffed, golden and knife inserted in centre comes out clean. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting into wedges.

Yield: 4 servings.


CALIFORNIA CHICKEN PASTA SALAD

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

8 ounces cavatappi, fusilli, farfalle or other
short pasta (about 2 1/2 cups
3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup red grapes, halved
1 cup slice celery
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1 cup crumbled Havarti, Colby or Gouda cheese
salt and pepper
1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts or almonds

Dressing:
1 cup milk
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoon liquid honey
1 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon each dried thyme and rosemary, crumbled
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 cup plain yogurt

Dressing: In a large bowl whisk together milk, garlic, honey, mustard, salt, thyme and rosemary. Gradually whisk in lemon juice. Let stand for 10 minutes or until slightly thickened. Whisk in yogurt.

Salad: Meanwhile, in large pot of boiling, salted water, cook pasta until tender but firm; drain. Rinse under cold running water until cool; drain well. Add to dressing in bowl with chicken, grapes, celery, onion and cheese and stir gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper; sprinkle with nuts.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings

.
SALMON AND RICE PRIMAVERA

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup long-grain white rice
4 ounces herb and garlic-flavored cream cheese
1 1/2 cups hot water
salt and pepper
4 pieces skinless salmon fillets (about 1 1/2 pounds)
2 cups frozen mixed baby vegetables, thawed (about 8 ounces)
lemon wedges

In a large nonstick skillet, whisk flour into milk; stir in rice. cream cheese, hot waster; 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring often. Reduce heat of medium-low; cover and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is almost tender, gently stirring three times. 

Sprinkle salmon with salt and pepper. Working quickly, stir vegetables into rice and nestle salmon fillets on top. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes longer or until rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed and white juices form on top of salmon.

Remove from heat and let stand, covered pot, 5 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the top.

Makes 4 servings.

Per serving: 688 calories; 45 g protein; 50 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 3.3 g fat; 349mg sodium


SUPER FAST CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE CURRY

~Submitted by Larry Holmes, Toronto, Canada

3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cups milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon mild curry powder or paste (or more to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
4 cups frozen chunky mixed vegetables (about 1 pound)
1 cup chopped fresh or drained canned tomatoes
1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons roasted peanuts

Whisk cornstarch and soy sauce into milk; set aside. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat; add chicken, garlic, curry and ginger; cook, turning chicken once, for about 2 minutes, or until chicken is lightly browned. Add vegetables; cover and cook for about 3 minutes, or until vegetables are thawed. 

Stir milk mixture and pour into pan; cook, stirring and scraping up bits stuck to pan, for about 5 minutes or until sauce is thickened and chicken is no longer pink inside. Remove from heat; stir in tomatoes. Serve topped with yogurt and peanuts.

Yield: 4 servings.

Per serving: 297 calories; 353 g protein; 29 g carbohydrates; 5 g fiber; 5 g fat; 155 mg sodium


BERRY PUDDING CAKE 

~Submitted by Sally, Boise, ID

6 servings

This recipe came from BHG

Nonstick cooking spray
2 eggs
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
Dash salt
1 cup fat-free milk
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
3 cups assorted fresh berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and/or sliced strawberries)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Lightly coat six 6-ounce individual quiche dishes with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange in a 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan; set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt; whisk until light and frothy. Whisk in milk until combined. Add flour and baking powder; whisk until smooth.

Divide berries among prepared quiche dishes. Pour batter over berries. (Batter will not cover berries completely.) Bake about 20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

Serve warm. If desired, sift powdered sugar over each serving.

Per serving: Servings Per Recipe 6 servings Calories 141 Total Fat (g) 2
Saturated Fat (g) 1 Cholesterol (mg) 71 Sodium (mg) 86 Carbohydrate (g) 26
Fiber (g) 3 Protein (g) 5 Fruit (d.e.) .5 Other Carbohydrates (d.e.) 1.5
*Percent Daily Values are base on a 2,000 calorie diet


CAROLYN'S GELATIN CHEESECAKE

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

I saw Paula Deen make this recipe on her show. I plan to make it soon. Really was pretty.

1 (12-ounce) container low-fat (1 percent) cottage cheese 
2 (0.3-ounce) boxes sugar free strawberry gelatin
1 box (0.3 oz strawberry Jell-O) 
2 ready-made light graham cracker crusts 
1 pint fresh strawberries, plus extra for garnish 
1 (8-ounce) container frozen light whipped topping, thawed 

Put cottage cheese in a blender. Make 2 boxes of the gelatin, using 1 cup of hot and 1 cup of cold water. At once, before it jells, add to cottage cheese. Blend until smooth. Pour evenly into crusts and refrigerate until set. Cut up fruit and place on top of pie.

Make remaining package of gelatin as per instructions on box. Pour it on top of fruit and put it in refrigerator until set. Put whipped topping on top. Garnish with more fruit.


LIGHT TURKEY MEATBALLS

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

I can't remember who I got this recipe from but they sound good. I like Turkey burgers so these are bound to be good.

Makes 35 meatballs

Ingredients

3 slices whole-wheat sandwich bread 
1/4 cup whole milk 
1 1/2 pounds ground turkey, 93 percent lean, dark meat 
3 scallions, finely chopped 
2 small cloves garlic, minced 
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 
1 large egg 
Coarse salt and ground pepper 

Directions

Place bread in food processor; pulse until fine crumbs form. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with milk; set aside at least 5 minutes. 

In a large bowl, combine turkey, scallions, garlic, parsley, egg, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and breadcrumb mixture; mix gently with a fork. 

With hands, form mixture into balls, each equal to 2 level tablespoons; arrange in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 

To freeze, transfer baking sheet to freezer. Freeze for 1 hour to set shape; transfer frozen meatballs to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, and freeze for up to 3 months.


LIGHTER CHICKEN POT PIE

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

Source: Martha Stewart
Prep: 40 minutes
Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves 4

Ingredients
2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breast halves (12 to 14 ounces each) 
Coarse salt and ground pepper 
3 tablespoons olive oil 
4 carrots, sliced 1/4 inch thick 
1 medium onion, finely chopped 
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves 
1/4 cup all-purpose flour 
2 1/2 cups low-fat (1%) milk 
1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas, thawed 
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 
6 phyllo sheets (each 12 by 17 inches), thawed 

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place chicken on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Roast until an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part of breast (avoiding bone) registers 165 degrees, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool slightly; discard skin and bones. Shred meat, and set aside. 

While chicken is roasting, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large saucepan over medium. Add carrots, onion, and thyme; season with salt and pepper, and cook until carrots are crisp-tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Add flour, and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mixture comes to a simmer and thickens. 

Remove from heat; stir in peas, lemon juice, and chicken, and season with salt and pepper. Pour filling into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. 

Stack phyllo on a work surface. Using a paring knife, cut out an 11-inch circle from the stack; discard trimmings. Stack 2 circles on work surface, and brush gently with 1 teaspoon oil; repeat with remaining circles and oil. Place phyllo stack over filling, and press down about 1/2 inch from the edge so phyllo fits inside rim of pie plate. Bake until golden and bubbling, 20 to 25 minutes. Let potpie cool 15 minutes before serving. 


TEX-MEX RICE WRAP

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

Serves: 8

Ingredients
2 1/2 cups UNCLE BEN'S® Fast & Natural Whole Grain Instant Brown Rice
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1 cup chopped tomato
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/2 cup shredded Monterrey Jack cheese (Low fat)
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 cup sliced cucumber
1 cup corn
1 can sliced black olives (4-6 ounce)
1/2 lime juiced
1 Tbsp. salt free seasoning
1/4 cup olive oil
2 3/4 cups water

Instructions
1. Cook rice with water according to package directions. Once cooked, set aside to cool slightly.

2. Whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt free seasoning and lime juice. Combine all the vegetables and toss with dressing to marinate.

3. Gently combine marinated vegetables and cheese with rice.

4. Serve as a salad or a wrap with lettuce. 


TRIPLE CHOCOLATE PUDDING

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

I got this one from The Wellness Kitchen cookbook.

3 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
3 Tablespoons corn starch
1/3 C packed brown sugar
3 C lo-fat(1%) milk
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 oz sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
2 Tablespoons mini chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla

In small bowl combine cocoa powder, cornstarch, brown sugar and 1/2 cup of the milk.

In medium saucepan, combine the remaining 2 1/2 cups of milk, cinnamon and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

Whisk the cocoa mixture into the boiling milk and cook just until thickened, whisking the whole time, about 4 minutes.

Stir in the sweet chocolate and chips. Remove from heat, cover and let stand until the chips are melted about 1 minute. Stir in the vanilla


SANTA FE SALAD

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

I got this recipe from Light & Tasty magazine. I love beans and corn combinations.

Prep time 30 minutes
Yield 10 servings

2 1/2 C cut fresh green beans
1 C minced fresh cilantro
1/4 C fat-free sour cream
2 Tablespoons lime juice
2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
Dash cayenne pepper
2 C frozen corn, thawed
15 oz can pinto beans, rinsed, drained
15 oz can black beans, rinsed, rained
1 small sweet pepper finely, chopped
1 small red onion, chopped
4 oz can chopped green chilies
2 1/4 oz can sliced ripe olives, drained
1/2 C shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

Place green beans in small saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil; cover cook 3-5 minutes or until crisp tender. Drain place in ice water. Drain and pat dry.

In large bowl combine green beans, corn, pinto beans, black beans red pepper, onion, chilies and olives. Add cheese and mix gently.

Dressing:
In small bowl combine cilantro, sour cream, lime juice, vinegar, garlic, cumin, salt and cayenne. Mix well. Pour over salad mixture and toss gently. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.


SUGAR BLEND

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

This is from Light & Tasty magazine; it is a recipe for sugar blend.

24 pkg sucralose sweetner
1 C granulated sugar

Mix well. Use half the amount of total sugar called for in recipes. (For every 1/2 C of sugar called for in a recipe use 1/4 C of this blend).


HERBED TUNA SANDWICHES

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

This is from my Light & Tasty magazine. A delightful combination of herbs and reduced-fat cheese make this simple tuna sandwich stand out. 

Prep time 20 minutes
4 servings

2 (6 oz each) cans light water-packed tuna, drained and flaked
2 boiled eggs, chopped
1/3 c fat free mayonnaise
1/4 c minced fresh chives
2 teaspoons parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 c shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
8 slices whole wheat bread, toasted

In small bowl, combine first seven ingredients. Place four slices bread on cookie sheet, top with tuna mixture, sprinkle with cheese. Broil 3-4 inches from heat for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted. Top with remaining bread.


BUTTERMILK FRIED CHICKEN

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

I love buttermilk fried chicken and now I found an oven version. This is in my Weight Watchers Cookbook.

Prep time 20 minutes, cook time 45 minutes

Hot sauce and ground red pepper add extra flavor to this Southern favorite, while crushed melba toast adds crunch to the coating.

1 C low-fat buttermilk
1 small onion thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
2 chicken breasts halves, skinned
2 chicken drumsticks, skinned
2 chicken thighs, skinned
5 1/4 oz pkg whole grain melba toast rounds, coarsely crushed
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
Cooking spray

Combine first 3 ingredients in a large heavy duty zip top plastic bag. Add chicken and shake gently to coat chicken. Mariinate in refrigerator for at least 6 hours.

Preheat oven to 400°.

Combine toast crumbs and next 6 ingredients in shallow dish. Remove chicken from bag and sprinkle with salt. Dredge chicken in crumb mixture to coat, pressing crumbs gently onto chicken to coat.

Line a baking sheet with foil and coat foil with cooking spray. Place chicken on pan. Bake 45 minutes or until chicken is done.


OOEY-GOOEY BROWNIES

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

Source: Weight Watchers Cookbook.

Prep time 10 minutes--cook 28 minutes

Fudgy brownies are topped with a rich chocolate frosting to satisfy any chocolate lover's dream.

13.7 oz pkg fat free fudge brownie mix (I have used the No-Pudge and it is good)
6 oz container vanilla low fat yogurt
1/3 c light stick butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon fat free milk
1 C powdered sugar
1/2 C semi sweet chocolate chips, melted

Preheat oven to 350° Line 8x8 baking dish with foil.

Prepare brownie mix according to pkg directions using yogurt.

Spread into foil lined 8x8 baking dish. Bake 28 minutes or until wooden pick comes out clean. Cool completely in pan on wire rack.

Place butter, vanilla and milk in medium bowl and beat at medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar beating on low speed for 1 minute or until spreading consistency.

Gradually melted chocolate beating until smooth. Spread evenly over brownies. Remove brownies from pan by lifting with foil. Cut into 16 squares.


CHICKEN WITH APPLES AND SAGE

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

I found this in Food for Health and Healing book

Start to finish 30 minutes
Makes 4 main dish servings

Apple juice adds a pleasant sweetness to the sauce for this chicken dish. Serve it over hot cooked rice or wild rice for a satisfying meal. Steam green beans or asparagus completes the meal.

4 medium skinless, boneless chicken breasts halves
1/8 teaspoon salt
Nonstick coating spray
1 C apple juice
1 red or green pepper cut into 1 inch pieces
1/4 C chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons snipped fresh sage or 1/2 teaspoon dried
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 Tablespoon cornstarch
1 Tablespoon cold water
2 medium red and /or green cooking apples, thinly sliced

Rinse chicken, pat dry. Sprinkle with salt. Spray unheated skillet and heat over medium high heat. Add chicken, cook 8-10 minutes or until chicken is tender and no longer pink, turning once. Remove from skillet. Keep warm.

Add apple juice, sweet pepper, onion, garlic, sage (if using dried, if using fresh add later) and black pepper to skillet. Bring to boil, reduce heat. Simmer covered for 2 minutes.

In small bowl combine cornstarch and water and stir in skillet. Stir in apples, cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir 2 minutes more. Add fresh sage (if using). Add chicken to skillet and heat through.


BAKED POTATO FRIES

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

I found this in Food for Health and Healing book.

Makes 4 side dish servings

Delight your family with homemade steak fries. No need to tell everyone there are just 2 grams of fat per serving. They'll love the crispy outsides with tender insides. You'll love avoiding messy frying.

Prep 12 minutes---Bake 30-35 minutes

2 medium potatoes, cut into wedges
2 teaspoons cooking oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Place potato wedges in plastic bag, add oil, salt and paprika. Close bag and shake to coat.

Arrange in single layer on large ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 425° for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown, turning once or twice.


POTATO PANCAKES

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

I found this in my Food for Health and Healing book.

Makes 4 main dish servings

1/3 C egg substitute or 1 egg plus 1 egg white
1/4 C all-purpose flour
2 Tablespoons sliced green onion
1/8 teaspoon pepper
3 medium potatoes, peeled and shredded (2 oz.)
1/2 C finely chopped lean cooked ham
1 Tablespoon butter or margarine
1/2 C salsa

In large bowl combine egg, flour, onion and pepper. Stir in potatoes and ham. In large skillet melt 1 1/2 teaspoons of the butter over medium heat.

For each pancake pour 1/4 cup of the batter into skillet, spreading to 3 inch circle. Cook for 1 1/2-2 minutes on each side or until lightly brown turning to second side when top is bubbly. Keep warm. Repeat until all mixture is gone. Serve with salsa.


MANGO MOUSSE

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

This one is in Food for Health and Healing book.

Prep 20 minutes--Freeze 45 minutes--Chill 4 hours

This light and creamy mousse is a satisfying snack or dessert. Mangoes are the star ingredients, making this mousse rich in antioxidants.

2 ripe mangoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 envelope unflavored gelatin
2 Tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons lemon juice
8 oz light cool whip, thawed

Place mangoes in food processor or blender. Process until smooth. Add enough water to make 2 cups total. Put in medium saucepan and bring to a boil.

In large bowl stir together gelatin and sugar. Pour mango mixture over gelatin mixture and stir until gelatin is dissolved. Stir in lemon juice. Cover and freeze 45 to 60 minutes until mixture mounds, stirring occasionally. Beat chilled mixture for 2-3 minutes or until light and thick. Fold in cool whip.

Spoon or pipe into 6 dessert dishes or parfait glasses. Cover, refrigerate until set.


MAKEOVER CREAMY BROCCOLI CASSEROLE

~Submitted by Brenda, AL

This is from Light & Tasty magazine.

2 (10oz) pkg of frozen chopped broccoli
10 3/4 oz reduced-fat, reduced sodium condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1 cup fat free mayonnaise
4 oz shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
1/2 cup egg substitute
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 Tablespoons butter or stick margarine, melted
1/4 cup crushed reduced fat butter flavored crackers (6 crackers) crushed
Butter cooking spray

Place 1 inch of water and broccoli in large saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 5-8 minutes or until crisp tender.

Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the soup, mayonnaise, cheese, egg substitute, onion and butter. Drain broccoli and gently stir in soup mixture.

Pour into 1 1/2 qt baking dish coated with cooking cooking spray. Sprinkle crackers on top and spritz with butter spray. Bake uncovered at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

Yield: 9 servings

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Heart Healthy

OVEN-FRIED CHICKEN

~Submitted by Maggie, TX

Prep & Cooking Time: 1 hr. 0 min.
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 3.000 ounce(s)

1 cup egg substitute 
1/8 tsp black pepper 
1/2 Tbsp poultry seasoning, low sodium 
4 chicken breasts (3 to 4 ounces, skinless, boneless) 
1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F/ 190 degrees C. Season chicken with poultry seasoning and black pepper. Dip chicken breast in egg substitute and shake off excess. Place bread crumbs on a plate and dip chicken breast in bread crumbs to cover both sides. Repeat with the other chicken breasts. Place chicken on a baking pan and bake for 45 minutes until cooked. 

Nutrition Facts 
Per 3.000 ounce(s) 
Total Calories: 188 Carbohydrates: 11.11 g 
Total Fat: 3.74 g Protein: 25.71 g 
Sat Fat: 0.98 g Fiber: 0.70 g 
Cholesterol: 55 mg Sodium: 500 mg 
Diabetic exchange:
Starch: 0.750
Meat: 3.000


PORK TENDERLOIN WITH APPLES

~Submitted by Maggie, TX

Prep & Cooking Time: 25 min.
Yield: 8 servings
Serving Size: 3.000 ounce(s)

1 tsp ground cumin 
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 
1/2 tsp dried thyme 
1/3 cup cider vinegar 
1 tsp canola oil 
1 pound Granny Smith or Rome apples, unpeeled, cored and thinly sliced 
8 pieces (4 ounces each) pork tenderloin, trimmed of fat, butterflied 
2 large onions, thinly sliced 
1/3 cup water 
1 tsp sugar

Trim all visible fat from pork tenderloin. Butterfly pork cuts and pound with meat mallet to half-inch (1-2 cm) thickness. Season pork with dried thyme and a dash of fresh ground pepper. Heat a large skillet coated with oil over high heat and place pork tenderloins to cook for 3 minutes on each side. Transfer meat to an oven safe casserole dish and cover. Place onions in large skillet and saute until tender. Add vinegar, water, sugar, cumin and apples. Cover and bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer and cook for 5 minutes until almost all the liquid is gone and apples are tender. Add the pork to skillet to heat for a few minutes and serve.

Nutrition Facts 
Per 3.000 ounce(s) 
Total Calories: 179 Carbohydrates: 9.65 g 
Total Fat: 4.70 g Protein: 23.86 g 
Sat Fat: 1.45 g Fiber: 1.44 g 
Cholesterol: 66 mg Sodium: 49 mg 
Diabetic exchange:
Meat: 3.000
Fruit: 0.750
Vegetable: 0.500


Parmesan, Chicken & Broccoli Pasta
PARMESAN, CHICKEN & BROCCOLI PASTA

~Submitted by Maggie, TX

This is a Kraft recipe. Very good!

Prep Time: 15 min 
Total Time: 25 min
Makes: 2 servings, 2-1/2 cups each

4 oz. (1/4 of 16-oz. pkg.) whole wheat spaghetti, uncooked 
1/4 cup KRAFT Light Zesty Italian Reduced Fat Dressing 
2 cloves garlic, minced 
1/2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips 
2 cups broccoli florets 
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes 
1/2 cup KRAFT 2% Milk Shredded Reduced Fat Mozzarella Cheese, divided 
4 tsp. KRAFT 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese 

COOK spaghetti as directed on package. 

MEANWHILE, heat dressing and garlic in large nonstick skillet on medium heat. Add chicken and broccoli; cook and stir 5 to 7 min. or until chicken is cooked through. Stir in tomatoes and half of the mozzarella cheese; cook 1 to 2 min or until heated through, stirring occasionally. 

DRAIN spaghetti; place on serving plate. Top with chicken mixture, remaining mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan cheese. 

Tips: For a little lemon zing, add 1 tsp. lemon pepper seasoning as you cook and stir the chicken and broccoli.
Cooking Know-How: Spaghetti will be easy to handle if you break it in half before cooking. 

Calories 480 Total fat 11 g Saturated fat 4.5 g Cholesterol 85 mg Sodium 840 mg Carbohydrate 52 g Dietary fiber 10 g Sugars 7 g Protein 45 g
Diet Exchange: 3 Starch,1 Vegetable,5 Meat (VL),1 Fat

Nutrition Bonus
The broccoli in this low-calorie low-fat meal provides a good source of both vitamins A and C. Plus, the cheese provides a good source of calcium. Carb Choices: 3 


HEART-HEALTHY SOUR CREAM

~Submitted by Maggie, TX

Prep & Cooking Time: 5 min.
Yield: 16 servings
Serving Size: 1.000 Tbsp

1 cup low-fat cottage cheese 
1/4 cup fat-free milk 
3 Tbsp plain low-fat yogurt 
1/8 tsp or a dash of salt 
1 Tbsp lemon juice

In a blender combine all ingredients and blend at high speed until well mixed and creamy. Transfer to bowl and serve chilled. 

Nutrition Facts 
Per 1.000 Tbsp 
Total Calories: 5 Carbohydrates: 0.56 g 
Total Fat: 0.05 g Protein: 0.56 g 
Sat Fat: 0.03 g Fiber: 0.00 g 
Cholesterol: 0 mg Sodium: 12 mg


GRILLED CHICKEN WITH SPICY SAUCE

~Submitted by Maggie, TX

Prep & Cooking Time: 30 min.
Yield: 3 servings
Serving Size: 3.000 ounces

1 Tbsp chili powder 
1 Tbsp black pepper 
1 whole chicken (no skin, raw) 
1 cup raw sweet red peppers, sliced into rings 
1 cup raw sweet yellow peppers, diced 
1-1/2 oz white wine 
1 Tbsp wheat or white flour all-purpose (enriched, unbleached) 
1 Tbsp raspberry vinegar 
Flavored cooking spray 

For this recipe, it is recommended to make the sauce first.

Spray pan with flavored cooking spray, saute yellow peppers, add flour, wine and raspberry vinegar, simmer. Season with black pepper and chili powder. Puree in blender or processor. Pour in pan and keep warm over low heat, until chicken is done. Next, prepare the chicken.

Cook chicken on grill over open flame until done.

Serve sauce over chicken with red pepper rings laying on top.

Nutrition Facts 
Per 3.000 ounces 
Total Calories: 133 Carbohydrates: 10.91 g 
Total Fat: 1.64 g Protein: 18.12 g 
Sat Fat: 0.38 g Fiber: 2.92 g 
Cholesterol: 41 mg Sodium: 75 mg 
Diabetic exchange:
Meat: 1.500
Vegetable: 1.000

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Diabetic Choices

LIME-GRILLED FISH WITH FRESH SALSA 

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Yield: 4 servings 
Serving Size: 1 fish fillet, about 3-1/2 ounces, with 1/4 cup salsa

INGREDIENTS 

- 1 tablespoon olive oil 
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 
- 4 firm fish fillets such as orange roughy or red snapper (1 pound total), thawed if frozen 
- 1 cup Fresh Salsa (recipe to follow) 
- 1/2 lime, cut into 4 slices 

DIRECTIONS 

Prepare a charcoal grill, or preheat the broiler and prepare the broiler pan with non-stick pan spray. 

Combine the oil and lime juice; brush over the fish. Grill or boil 4 to 5 inches from the heat source until the fish is opaque, about 6 minutes (depending on the thickness of the fish). Serve immediately, topped with salsa and fresh lime slices. 

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 164, Fat: 5 g, Cholesterol: 42 mg, Sodium: 356 mg, Carbohydrate: 5 g, Dietary Fiber: 1 g, Sugars: 3 g, Protein: 24 g 

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 3 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 Fat 

FRESH SALSA 

Yield: About 1 cup (4 servings)

INGREDIENTS 

- 1 large tomato (8 ounces), seeded and chopped 
- 3 green onions with green tops, chopped 
- 1/3 cup packed chopped fresh cilantro 
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 
- 1 tablespoon seeded and chopped jalapeno 
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 

DIRECTIONS 

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl; mix well. Leave at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes for flavors to mingle. 

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/4 cup): Calories: 20, Fat: 0 g, Cholesterol: 0 g, Sodium: 306 mg, Carbohydrate: 4 g, Dietary Fiber: 1 g, Sugars: 3 g, Protein: 1 g Diabetic Exchanges: Free Food 

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People With Diabetes


SUN-DRIED TOMATO AND GOAT CHEESE DRESSING

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Yield: Makes about 1/2 cup

INGREDIENTS

- 3 sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon goat cheese or reduced-fat cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram, leaves
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper

DIRECTIONS

Place sun-dried tomatoes in small bowl; pour hot water over to cover. Let tomatoes stand until softened, about 15 minutes; drain and finely chop. 

Mix tomatoes, oil, and remaining ingredients; refrigerate until serving time. Mix again before using.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/8 of recipe):
Calories: 172, Fat: 5.4 g, Cholesterol: 3.5 mg,
Sodium: 179 mg, Protein: 6.3 g, Carbohydrate: 26.3 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1-1/2 Bread, 1 Fat


CRISPY OVEN-FRIED FISH

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

Sauce:
- 1/4 cup nonfat or light mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped capers
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped onion

Rest of recipe:
- 4 cod, orange roughy, flounder, or other white fish fillets (5 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons fat-free egg substitute
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons finely ground Special-K cereal crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Olive oil cooking spray

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

To make the sauce, combine all of the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and stir to mix well. Set aside. 

Rinse the fish with cool water and pat it dry with paper towels. Set aside. 

Place the egg substitute in a shallow dish. Place the cereal crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning in another shallow dish and stir to mix well. 

Dip the fish pieces first in the egg substitute and then in the crumb mixture, turning to coat both sides well. 

Coat a medium-sized baking sheet with the cooking spray and arrange the fish fillets on the sheet. Spray the tops lightly with the cooking spray and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the outside is crisp and golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve hot, accompanied by the sauce.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/4 of recipe):
Calories: 194, Carbohydrate: 9 g, Cholesterol: 65 mg,
Fat: 3 g, Saturated Fat: 1.2 g, Fiber: 0.4 g,
Protein: 31 g, Sodium: 457 mg, Calcium: 106 mg
Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 Starch

Source: "The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan"

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For Two

SEVEN-LAYER SALAD

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Yield: 2 servings

INGREDIENTS

- 3 cups torn iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green pepper
- 1/4 cup fat-free plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons reduced-fat mayonnaise
- 2 ounces shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese
- 2 slices bacon, cooked crisp, drained, and crumbled
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced

DIRECTIONS

In a medium casserole dish, layer lettuce and other vegetables. 

Mix together yogurt and mayonnaise and spread on the top layer. Top with cheese, bacon, and eggs. 

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate 8 hours or more.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/2 of recipe):
Calories: 345, Fat: 19 g, Cholesterol: 244 mg, Sodium: 648 mg,
Carbohydrate: 22 g, Dietary Fiber: 7 g, Sugars: 10 g, Protein: 22 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 3 Medium-Fat Meat, 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

Source: "Magic Menus for People with Diabetes"


SALMON WITH ASPARAGUS WITH HOLLANDAISE SAUCE

~Submitted by Gerryl Ann M., Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada

Serves 2

1lb.(454 gr.) salmon filet
1lb.(454 gr.) asparagus (there will be left over) I used the next day in an omelet
1 bunch of cilantro
1 sprig of rosemary

Take the salmon filet and rub with olive oil and chopped rosemary.

In a large covered skillet, I put 2 cups of water in bottom, placed asparagus along bottom, layer the whole cilantro stalks on and then placed the salmon filet last.

Cover and ring to a boil, let cook until salmon done. about 15-20 minutes

I topped the asparagus with Hollandaise sauce, which is not calorie friendly but wonderful.

1 TBSP white vinegar with some crack pepper, simmer until halved, then cool; add in two egg yolks and stir well, return pot to warm water and introduce 6 oz. melted butter, stirring the whole time, until thickened, then add a splash of lemon juice.

Serve.

This is my own recipe. I hope everyone enjoys it, my husband did.


ASIAN PORK TENDERLOIN

~Submitted by Maggie, TX

1/4 cup plum sauce
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1 tsp. hot chili garlic sauce
12 ounce pork tenderloin, ready to cook

Preheat oven to 450*F. Place oven rack in top third of oven. Combine sauces in a small bowl. Place tenderloin on a foil-lined baking sheet with shallow sides, and tuck under narrow end of tenderloin to prevent it from drying out. Sprinkle tenderloin with salt and pepper. Generously coat with plum sauce mixture.

Roast, uncovered, about 20 to 25 minutes, or until tenderloin is done. Remove from oven and let stand about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serves: 3
221 calories, 5 total fat, 2 sat fat, 25 protein, 1 fiber, 492 sodium (mg), 17 carbs, 5 ww pts


SPICED BERRIES

~Submitted by Mary S., Nashville, TN

Yield: 2 servings

INGREDIENTS

- 1-1/2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- Sugar substitute equivalent to 2 teaspoons

DIRECTIONS

Wash berries and divide between 2 small dessert bowls. Heat balsamic vinegar on high heat for 1 minute or until reduced by one-quarter. Add sugar substitute and stir to dissolve. Pour sauce over berries.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/2 of recipe):
Calories: 70, Fat: 0 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Sodium: 4 mg,
Carbohydrate: 18 g, Dietary Fiber: 3 g, Sugars: 11 g, Protein: 1 g
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Fruit

Source: "Mix 'n Match Meals in Minutes For People with Diabetes"

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Publisher's Choice

LEAN LASAGNA

This is my adaptation of a recipe found in Self magazine.

Makes 8 servings.

Vegetable-oil cooking spray
1/2 cup chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1 lb ground turkey breast
3 cups tomato sauce
3 tsp Italian seasoning (or 1 tsp each dried basil, parsley, and oregano) 
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 cup chopped mushrooms
6 cups chopped fresh spinach (or chard) 
2 cups fat-free ricotta
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 package whole-wheat lasagna noodles (about 8 oz, or 9 noodles) 
2 cups (8 oz) shredded part-skim mozzarella 

Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a medium-sized nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes, then add turkey and cook an additional 5 to 7 minutes. Add tomato sauce, all seasonings and mushrooms and simmer 2 minutes. Remove pan from heat. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, and nutmeg. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water. Coat a 9" x 13" baking pan with cooking spray. Arrange 1/3 lasagna noodles (3 noodles) on the bottom of the pan. Spread a layer of ricotta mixture, then turkey mixture, then 1/3 mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with mozzarella. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until cheese bubbles. Cool at least 5 minutes before cutting.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 310 calories, 6 g fat (3.5 g saturated fat), 31 g carbohydrates, 33 g protein, 4 g fiber 


CHOCOLATE CHIP BREAD

2-1/4 C. reduced-fat Bisquick 
1 package(4 serving size) Jell-O sugar-free instant chocolate pudding mix 
2/3 C. nonfat dry milk powder 
1/4 C. Splenda 
2 Tbs. mini chocolate chips 
1/4 C. chopped walnuts 
2 large eggs slightly beaten 
3/4 C. fat-free vanilla yogurt 
1/2 C. cold water 
2 tsp. canola oil 
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with butter-flavored cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine baking mix, dry pudding mix, dry milk powder, sugar substitute, chocolate chips and walnuts. In a small bowl, combine eggs, yogurt, water, oil, and vanilla extract. Add the liquid mixture to the dry mixture. Mix gently just to combine. Evenly spread batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Place loaf pan on a wire rack and let set for 10 minutes. Remove bread from pan and continue cooling on wire rack. Cut into 12 slices.


LOW FAT CHEESE SAUCE

Prep & Cooking Time: 15 min.
Yield: 16 servings
Serving Size: 1.000 Tbsp

3/4 cup 1% milk 
1 oz canned, evaporated milk 
dash of black pepper 
1 Tbsp wheat or white flour, all-purpose 
1 cup shredded, low fat, American cheese

In a saucepan, over medium heat, stir evaporated milk, flour, milk and dash of pepper. Stir until smooth

Over low heat add shredded cheese and cook for 1 minute until cheese is melted.

Nutrition Facts 
Per 1.000 Tbsp 
Total Calories: 25 Carbohydrates: 1.49 g 
Total Fat: 0.87 g Protein: 2.71 g 
Sat Fat: 0.55 g Fiber: 0.05 g 
Cholesterol: 4 mg Sodium: 133 mg 
Diabetic exchange:
Starch: 0.018
Meat: 0.125
Milk: 0.018


ORANGESICLE PIE

1 8 ounce package fat free cream cheese
1 8 ounce container fat free orange yogurt
3 packets Equal
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 small pack sugar free orange gelatin
1 cup light whip cream
1 low fat graham cracker crust 

Beat cream cheese and yogurt until smooth. Add sweetener and vanilla extract and continue mixing. Sprinkle gelatin in mixture and continue beating. Fold in whip cream. Pour into crust and chill for at least 2 hours.

Serves: 8
226 calories, 8 total fat, 4 sat fat, 13 protein, 0 fiber, 501 sodium (mg), 21 carbs, 5 ww pts 


FAT-FREE SEAFOOD CHOWDER

Serve this to company (invite the girls over!) or make it as a new family favorite. 

Serving: 8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes

2 1/2 cups potato, peeled and diced 
1 (10-ounce) package frozen kernel corn 
1 cup carrot, peeled and chopped 
1 teaspoon garlic, minced 
2 1/2 cups fat-free chicken broth 
2 1/2 cups broccoli floret 
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 
1/4 teaspoon pepper 
2 cups skim milk 
6 ounces frozen shrimp (low-fat) 
6 ounces imitation fat-free crab flakes (or low-fat) 
1 cup fat-free cheddar cheese, shredded

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, combine potatoes, 1 cup corn, carrots, garlic and chicken broth; bring to a boil over high heat. 

2. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. 

3. Pour potato mixture into food processor or blender and process until smooth. 

4. Return mixture to soup pot and add remaining corn and broccoli. 

5. Cover pot and cook over medium-high heat about 10 minutes. 

6. In a small bowl, combine flour and pepper. 

7. Gradually blend in skim milk, stirring constantly, until mixture is smooth. 

8. Stir into soup. 

9. Add shrimp and crab and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10 to 15 minutes. 

10. Remove soup from heat and stir in cheese until melted. Enjoy!

Based on individual serving.
Calories: 204
Total Fat: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Protein: 17 g

Source: iVillage


LIGHTER CHICKEN TETRAZZINI

This Chicken Tetrazzini recipe uses some low-fat alternatives for a lighter Tetrazzini.

1 tablespoon olive oil 
8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms 
2 tablespoons no-fat dry milk powder 
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch 
2 teaspoons instant chicken broth granules or equivalent base 
1 teaspoon salt 
1/4 teaspoon pepper 
1/2 teaspoon onion powder 
pinch nutmeg 
2 cups cold water 
3 to 4 cups cooked diced chicken 
6 ounces medium or broad egg noodles, cooked until just tender 
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese 
paprika 

Heat olive oil over medium-low heat in a skillet; add mushrooms and cook until tender. 

In a large saucepan, combine milk powder, cornstarch, chicken broth granules, salt, pepper, onion powder, and nutmeg with cold water. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring, until mixture is thickened and bubbly. 

Arrange cooked noodles in a 2-quart shallow baking dish. Spread mushrooms over noodles; top with chicken. Pour sauce over all then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and a little paprika. 

Bake at 350° for 30 minutes, until bubbly.

Serves 4 to 6.

Source: About.com


LIGHTER MASHED POTATOES

2 cans non-fat chicken broth
5 large potatoes
salt and pepper to taste

Place broth and potatoes in saucepan. Heat to a boil. Cover and cook over medium heat 10 min. or until tender. Drain, reserving broth.

Mash potatoes with 1 1/4 cups of reserved broth and add salt pepper to taste. Add additional broth, if needed, until desired consistency.

Serves: 6
128 calories, 0 total fat, 0 sat fat, 4 protein, 2 fiber, 482 sodium (mg), 28 carbs, 2 ww pts 


LOW-FAT CHICKEN ENCHILADA STACK

This dish is perfect, as is. However, some folks don't care for cilantro (like my kids) so it may be omitted. To me, it is better "with".

1 tbsp canola oil
1/2 red onion, sliced
1/2 yellow or red pepper, cut into strips
1 jalapeno pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
1 tbsp cumin
1 14.5-ounce can recipe-ready Mexican style tomatoes (reserve 1/4 cup)
1 1/2 cups shredded cooked white-meat chicken
2 6-inch corn tortillas
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1/2 cup reduced fat shredded Jack cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet. Sauté onion, pepper strips and jalapeno for 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle cumin and stir well. Add tomatoes, except 1/4 cup, and simmer for 5 minutes. Add shredded chicken and cook for 2 minutes. 

Spray a 9-inch pie dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place one tortilla on the bottom. Spoon the chicken mixture on top. Cover with other tortilla. Spoon remaining tomatoes over top, followed by cilantro and cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes. 

Cut into wedges and serve with a green salad. 

Serves 4. 

Per Serving: Calories 207, Calories from Fat 66, Total Fat 7.3g (sat 2.2g), Cholesterol 43mg, Sodium 292mg, Carbohydrate 16g, Fiber 6.4g, Protein 19.3g


MACARONI AND CHEESE

12 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni or other short tube pasta
2 1/2 tbsp flour
2 cups nonfat milk
1 1/4 cups reduced-fat extra-sharp cheddar, grated
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Freshly ground black pepper

Cook pasta according to the instructions on the package. While pasta is cooking, place flour in a medium saucepan and gradually whisk in milk. Heat the milk and flour on medium and bring to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce heat and allow to simmer until the milk begins to thicken. Stir in cheese and mustard, and stir until cheese melts. Toss drained pasta and sauce in a large bowl. Add freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately. 

Serves 4-6 

Per 1 Cup Serving: Calories 314, Calories from Fat 51, Total Fat 5.7g (sat 3.1g), Cholesterol 18mg, Sodium 258mg, Carbohydrate 49.6, Fiber 1.5g, Protein 16.2g


TOMATO FETA SALAD

1 cup reduced fat feta cheese, finely crumbled
1/2 cup nonfat plain yogurt
1/2 cup nonfat milk
1 Tbsp. fresh chopped dill weed
3 large tomatoes, cut in thin wedges
1 head bibb lettuce

Combine yogurt, milk, and dill weed in a small bowl, blending well. Stir in feta cheese crumbles.

Place lettuce on salad plates and top with tomato wedges. Drizzle with dressing to serve.

Serves: 6
74 calories, 3 total fat, 2 sat fat, 7 protein, 1 fiber, 299 sodium (mg), 7 carbs


GRILLED SALMON WITH TARRAGON CREAM

1 1/2 lb salmon filets
1/4 cup light mayonnaise (do not use nonfat)
2 green onions, sliced
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
2 tsp. fresh tarragon
1 Tbsp. margarine
1 tsp. fresh tarragon

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, green onions, lemon juice, and the 2 teaspoons of tarragon; chill.

Combine margarine with the one teaspoon tarragon. Cut a large piece of heavy foil and spray one side with cooking spray, and cut a few slits in it. Place salmon filets on foil, skin side down over the cooking spray. Spread the tarragon margarine over salmon. Place foil and salmon on a grill over medium heat. Cover and grill for about 4 to 6 minutes per half inch thickness of salmon, or until done and flakes easily.

Serve with the tarragon mayonnaise cream.

Serves: 6
175 calories, 8 total fat, 1 sat fat, 23 protein, 0 fiber, 149 sodium (mg), 2 carbs, 4 ww points


BROWNIE COOKIES

The trick is to eat only one!

3/4 cup reduced calorie margarine, softened
2/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup egg substitute
1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
3/4 cup miniature chocolate chips 

Beat margarine at medium speed of an electric mixer until creamy; gradually add sugars, beating well. Add egg substitute, 1/4 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

Combine flour, baking soda, salt and cocoa. Add to margarine mixture, stirring just until blended. Stir in miniature chocolate chips. Drop cookie dough by level tablespoonfuls, 2 inches apart, onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375*F for 6 minutes. Remove from cookie sheets and let cool on wire racks.

Serves: 48 (one cookie per serving)
60 calories, 3 total fat, 1 sat fat, 1 protein, 0 fiber, 74 sodium (mg), 10 carbs, 2 ww points


BEEF MEATLOAF WITH MUSHROOMS AND ONIONS

Serves: 6

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 cup button mushrooms, sliced
2 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef sirloin
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg white
1/2 cup chopped parsley
1/4 cup skim milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. 

2. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add the onion and mushrooms cook for 5 minutes. Add the garlic and oregano and cook 2 minutes more and set aside to cool. 

3. Thoroughly combine the ground beef sirloin, breadcrumbs, egg white, parsley, skim milk, salt, pepper and the cooled onion and mushroom mixture. 

4. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Pack each portion into a 1 1/2-cup baking dishes, such as a souffle dish or a ramekin. Sprinkle the tops with cheese and bake for 25 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. 

Serving Size: 1 mini loaf
Number of Servings: 6
Per Serving 
Calories 276 Carbohydrate 16 g 
Fat 11 g Fiber 1 g 
Protein 29 g Saturated Fat 4 g 
Sodium 374 mg 

Source: FoodFit.com


AMBROSIA

10 oz. nonfat vanilla yogurt, sweetened with aspartame
1 cup Cool Whip Lite
1/2 cup shredded coconut
2 cups orange segments
2 cups pineapple chunks
2 cups red or green seedless grapes (or a combination of both)
1 cup lowfat granola 

Combine yogurt, whipped topping and coconut; set aside. In a large bowl, combine oranges, pineapple and grapes. Place alternating layers of fruit and yogurt mixture in parfait glasses, ending with yogurt mixture. Top with granola.

Serves: 8
197 calories, 3 total fat, 2 sat fat, 4 protein, 3 fiber, 62 sodium (mg), 38 carbs, 4 ww points



A to Z Readers' Family-Owned Business Guide

Phil's Creative Chocolates

Did you know that some of the finest hand-dipped chocolates in the world come from one of our very own a2z family members? Phil's Creative Chocolates is owned by Phil Maine, the dear hubby of Pat in Minden, Nevada. He is a published cookbook author and a fabulous cook. Pat has been a personal friend of mine for many years. It is always nice to do business with someone you know and can trust. Phil sends a special message to the a2z family:

The chocolates I make are chocolate center truffles and butter cream centers of various flavors, such as raspberry, lemon, lime, orange, strawberry, etc. I use various liqueurs, such as Kahlua, Kahlua-Hazelnut, Chambord, Baileys, cognac, rum, etc in some of them. Of course, no alcohol if requested. Dark, milk and white chocolates are used in the assortment. I can do dark chocolates for all of the 12 pieces or any combination. Please also indicate alcohol or not. And, if there are any special flavors you especially like.

The price is $12 per dozen plus s/h (approximately $3.00; warm weather delivery pack is extra).
(I accept personal checks and PayPal.)

Contact:
Phil Maine (philmn@charter.net)

Using the email link above will tell Phil that you read about his chocolates in a2z. Of course, you may cut and paste the email addy into your "send" box without using the link.




Bee Happy and Healthy with Raw Ohio Honey!

Visit Ohio Honey.com

Owned by a2z'er Lucy Wellhausen



Dilly Core

If you like Dill Pickles, then you would love the "Dilly Core", the Dill Pickle Corer to make Stuffed Dill Pickles. Uncle Bill, another a2z family member designed the corer specifically for Dill Pickles so it is much smaller than an apple corer that often destroys a pickle. Uncle Bill will also include his flavorful famous Dill Pickle Stuffing recipe in every order. The "Dilly Core" is made from Stainless Steel, so it is dishwasher safe and will not rust or tarnish. It may also be used to core fresh cucumbers so that stuffing can be added. In addition, the "Dilly Core" can be used to core roasts so that the cored out section can be stuffed with your favorite herbs or spices. Contact him using this special link: Dilly Core. I love my Dilly Core and know you will find dozens of uses for it in your kitchen, too.

Uncle Bill's Dilly Core




This mixer is great! I got my order in and couldn't wait to try it. WOW! You have GOT to try it for yourself! The flavor and convenience are top shelf!
~Maggie~

Zilch, a delicious sugar free Margarita mixer is giving A to Z Recipes readers an exclusive 10% discount on all orders. Zilch is ideal for low calorie d-i-e-t programs, low carb lifestyles, and diabetic d-i-e-t-s. The mix is packaged in easy to take along, single serve packets for enjoyment at home, in restaurants, or anywhere you go. Use coupon code “AtoZ” to take advantage of this special offer. Visit Zilch at www.zilchmixers.com.
F-R-E-E SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS !




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The A to Z Recipes Newsletter is published by Maggie Blackwell, Editor & Contributing Author, every Wednesday and Sunday.

The information contained in issues and the website of A to Z Recipes is for use at your own discretion. Confer with health professionals for any special needs. Feel free to forward this publication to family and friends.


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