Monday, May 07 2018
Shrimp and pasta are one of the easiest dinner combinations. It's fast, fresh, and stylish! Your family will think you spent hours cooking while they indulge in this flavorful dish.
INGREDIENTS
3/4 - pound Bucatini or other fat spaghetti noodle
2 - tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 - tablespoon cloves garlic, minced
2 - pints red and/or yellow cherry tomatoes, halved
3/4 - pound wild Patagonia or Gulf shrimp, peeled and deveined
Generous pinch pinch crushed red pepper
6 - ounces aged feta cheese, broken in pieces
1 - handful basil, thinly sliced (about 1 cup sliced)
Extra-virgin olive oil (optional)
Aged feta cheese (optional)
DIRECTIONS
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to boiling. Add bucatini and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/3 cup of the pasta cooking liquid to use for the sauce.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and tomatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and the juices begin to bubble, about 3 minutes. If the cherry tomatoes give out very little juice, add 1 tablespoon of water and a splash (about 1/2 teaspoon) of red wine vinegar for acidity. Add the shrimp and a large pinch of crushed red pepper then toss just until the shrimp are cooked through, about 2 minutes.
Add the pasta along with reserved pasta cooking liquid. Toss together over low heat. Remove from the heat. Stir in the feta and basil; toss with tongs, adding up to 1 Tbsp. more oil and additional feta to taste. Divide between four bowls. Serve warm. Makes 4 servings.
NUTRITION FACTS (Bucatini with Shrimp and Spicy Cherry Tomato Pan Sauce)
Per serving: 585 kcal , 18 g fat (8 g sat. fat , 2 g polyunsaturated fat , 7 g monounsaturated fat ), 145 mg chol. , 971 mg sodium , 74 g carb. , 5 g fiber , 9 g sugar , 31 g pro.
Wednesday, March 07 2018
There's so much to love about the Mediterranean dinner: fresh vegetables, tons of herbs, and high-protein recipes. Check out our list of Mediterranean meals, complete with hummus, souvlaki, seafood, and lamb meals.
INGREDIENTS
Cornmeal
1 - recipe Flatbread Dough or 1 lb. purchased pizza dough*
Olive oil
2 - tablespoons olive oil
3 - ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, cut into strips
3 - tablespoons dried tomato pesto
4 - ounces provolone cheese, shredded (1 cup)
1 - tablespoon lemon juice
1 - cup baby arugula
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking sheet; sprinkle with cornmeal. On a lightly floured surface roll and stretch the dough into a 12x8-inch rectangle or oval. Lightly brush with olive oil and cover with plastic wrap.
In a large skillet heat 1 Tbsp. oil over medium heat. Add prosciutto. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp. Remove to paper towels to drain.
Spread pesto over dough. Sprinkle with prosciutto and cheese. Bake about 16 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
In a medium bowl whisk together the remaining 1 Tbsp. olive oil and lemon juice. Add arugula and toss to coat. Top pizza with arugula mixture.
FROM THE TEST KITCHEN
*TIP
Or use purchased flatbreads (such as Flatout® brand) or pita flatbreads. Cook prosciutto as directed in Step 2. Spread 2 flatbreads with pesto, top with prosciutto and bake in 400 degrees F oven 8 minutes or until edges are browned. Top as above.
Flatbread Dough
INGREDIENTS
Olive oil or nonstick cooking spray
2 - cups all-purpose flour
1 - package active dry yeast
1 - teaspoon sugar
1/2 - teaspoon kosher salt
1 - tablespoon olive oil
2/3 - cup warm water (105 degrees F to 115 degrees F)
DIRECTIONS
Coat a medium bowl with olive oil or cooking spray. In a food processor combine the next four ingredients (through salt). With the food processor running, add 1 Tbsp. olive oil and the warm water. Process until a dough forms. Remove and shape into a smooth ball. Place dough in the prepared bowl; turn once to coat dough surface. Cover bowl with plastic wrap. Let stand in a warm place until double in size (45 to 60 minutes).
NUTRITION FACTS (Pesto-Prosciutto Flatbread)
Per serving: 352 kcal , 17 g fat (5 g sat. fat , 1 g polyunsaturated fat , 9 g monounsaturated fat ), 23 mg chol. , 786 mg sodium , 36 g carb. , 2 g fiber , 2 g sugar , 14 g pro.
NUTRITION FACTS (Flatbread Dough)
Per serving: 179 kcal , 3 g fat ( 0 g sat. fat, 0 g polyunsaturated fat, 2 g monounsaturated fat), 0 mg chol., 166 mg sodium, 33 g carb., 1 g fiber, 1 g sugar, 5 g pro.
Monday, August 14 2017
Carbs aren't the only thing Italians are good at. These healthy Italian recipes—chicken calzones, prosciutto paninis, saucy Italian meatball subs, and more—go past just pasta and sauce and into protein-packed dinners less than 400 calories per serving. Mangia!
INGREDIENTS
1 - medium head cauliflower (1 1/2 to 2 pounds), cored and cut into florets (4 cups)
1 - egg, lightly beaten
1/4 - cup cup shredded Italian cheese blend (1 ounce)
1/4 - cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 - cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 - teaspoon Italian seasoning, crushed
1/4 - teaspoon salt
3/4 - cup pizza sauce
Desired toppings
DIRECTIONS
Place the cauliflower in a food processor. Cover and pulse four to six times or until crumbly and mixture resembles the texture of couscous.
Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place cauliflower in a microwave-safe casserole with 2 tablespoons water. Microwave, covered, on 100% power (high) for 3 to 4 minutes or until tender, stirring once or twice. Cool. Transfer cauliflower to a 100% cotton flour-sack towel. Wrap towel around cauliflower and squeeze until there is no more liquid (this step is critical).
In a medium bowl stir together cooked and drained cauliflower, egg, Italian cheese blend, the Parmesan cheese, panko, Italian seasoning, and salt. On a piece of parchment paper pat cauliflower mixture into a 12-inch circle. Transfer crust on paper to the preheated pizza stone. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until crisp and starting to brown.
Spoon pizza sauce over baked crust, spreading evenly. Top with desired toppings. Bake about 5 minutes more or until heated and cheese melts. Cut into slices to serve.
Wednesday, November 30 2016
Fast and easy meals.
Ingredients
1/4 - cup white wine vinegar or cider vinegar
1 - teaspoon sugar
1/2 - teaspoon ground black pepper
1 - 17 ounce package refrigerated cooked Italian-style herbed beef roast in au jus, undrained
1 - cup sliced baby or regular-size red or yellow sweet peppers
2 - square whole grain ciabatta rolls or buns
4 - slices provolone cheese
2 - tablespoons snipped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley
Snipped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley
Directions
Preheat broiler. In a large microwave-safe bowl combine vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Add beef and sweet peppers. Cover and cook on 100 percent power (high) for 4 minutes.
Meanwhile, split rolls and place cut sides up on a baking sheet. Broil 3 to 4 inches from heat for 1 minute or until lightly toasted. Top each roll with cheese; broil 1 to 2 minutes until cheese is melted.
Using a fork, coarsely shred beef. Stir in parsley. With a slotted spoon, mound beef mixture onto rolls. Sprinkle with additional snipped parsley. Serve with any remaining cooking liquid.
Nutrition Facts (Open-Face Italian Beef Sandwiches)
Per serving: 341 kcal cal., 15 g fat (8 g sat. fat, 0 g polyunsaturated fat, 2 g monounsatured fat), 78 mg chol., 774 mg sodium, 22 g carb., 2 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 31 g pro. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Friday, November 11 2016
Ready for your dish to be the star of the potluck? Whether you're bringing a Thanksgiving sides, entree, or dessert, save time and effort (without skimping on flavor) with these slow cooker meals. We have you covered with what to bring and how to serve it -- so get used to your dish being the first to disappear.
Ingredients
1 - pound boneless beef chuck pot roast
1 - 15 ounce can tomato sauce with Italian seasonings
2 - medium green sweet peppers, sliced
2 - medium onions, sliced
1 - 12 ounce jar pepperoncini salad peppers, drained and stems removed
1 - 0.65 ounce envelope cheese-garlic dry salad dressing mix
12 - crusty sandwich rolls, split and toasted
2 - cups shredded Italian-blend cheeses (8 ounces) (optional)
Directions
Trim fat from meat. Place meat in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Pour tomato sauce over meat. Top with green pepper, onion, and pepperoncini peppers. Sprinkle with dressing mix.
Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 10 to 12 hours or on high-heat setting for 5 to 6 hours. Transfer meat to a cutting board. Using two forks, pull meat apart into shreds. Return shredded meat to slow cooker.
Using a slotted spoon, spoon some shredded meat, sweet peppers, onions, and pepperoncini peppers onto the bottom halves of rolls. Sprinkle with cheese, if desired. Spoon some cooking liquid into bowls for dipping.
Nutrition Facts (Italian Beef Sandwiches)
Per serving: 393 kcal cal., 19 g fat (7 g sat. fat, 1 g polyunsaturated fat, 8 g monounsatured fat), 73 mg chol., 1158 mg sodium, 28 g carb., 2 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 26 g pro. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Monday, October 24 2016
Who knew meatball meals be so much more than spaghettis dinner sidekick? Meatballs are getting a facelift with these mouthwatering meals. Here's your one-stop shop for all things meatball.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken sausage, removed from casings
¾ cup Italian breadcrumbs
1 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1-½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
½ tsp fresh cracked black pepper
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced into small thin slices
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the first 10 ingredients. Combine well but don't over mix. Roll chicken mixture into 1" meatballs and place onto baking sheet. Bake for 16-18 minutes until lightly browned.
Spoon about one tablespoon marinara sauce over each meatball. Place a small thin slice of mozzarella on top of each meatball.
Return to oven and cook for about 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Monday, October 17 2016
Ingredients
1 - pound ground beef or uncooked ground turkey
1/4 - cup chopped onion
1 - 1 pound portion fresh pizza dough* or one 1-pound portion frozen pizza dough, thawed
1/2 - cup marinara sauce
2 - cups shredded mozzarella cheese or shredded Italian blend cheeses (8 ounces)
1 - cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1 - cup chopped red, green, and/or yellow sweet peppers (2 small)
1/2 - teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
1/4 - 1/2 - teaspoon crushed red pepper
Marinara sauce, warmed
Snipped fresh parsley and/or crushed red pepper (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a 9 1/2- to 10-inch cast-iron or ovenproof skillet cook ground beef and onion over medium heat about 5 minutes or until the meat is browned and onion is tender, using a wooden spoon to break up meat as it cooks. Drain off fat. Set meat mixture aside. Wipe skillet out with a paper towel; set aside to cool slightly.
On a lightly floured surface, divide pizza dough in half. Roll one dough portion to a 12-inch circle (if dough is hard to roll, let stand for 5 minutes and then roll out). Press dough circle into the bottom and up the sides of the skillet. Spread the 1/2 cup marinara sauce evenly over the dough. Top with meat mixture, mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, sweet peppers, oregano, and the 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper. Roll the remaining dough portion into an 11-inch circle. Place dough circle over filling. Pinch edges of bottom crust and top crust together to seal. Using the tip of a sharp knife, cut slits in the top crust.
Bake about 25 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting. Cut into wedges to serve. Serve with additional warmed marinara sauce. If desired, garnish with parsley and/or additional crushed red pepper. If desired, serve with Parmesan cheese.
From the Test Kitchen
*TIP:
Look at an Italian market or a specialty food store for fresh pizza dough.
SMART SWAP
Use frozen peppers for the fresh and sub in your favorite pizza topping for the mushrooms.
Nutrition Facts (Cast-Iron Skillet Calzone)
Per serving: 498 kcal cal., 22 g fat (9 g sat. fat, 1 g polyunsaturated fat, 7 g monounsatured fat), 73 mg chol., 782 mg sodium, 42 g carb., 3 g fiber, 7 g sugar, 32 g pro. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Wednesday, September 21 2016
Ingredients
4 - 8 ounces chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 - cups Italian dressing
5 - rosemary sprigs (1 for glaze and 4 for garnish)
juice of 1/2 a lemon
salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 - cup olive oil
4 - teaspoons minced garlic
3 - cups fresh baby spinach
1 - cup tomatoes, diced
1 - pound angel hair pasta
4 - lemon wheels, to garnish
Directions
Place the chicken dinner in a gallon sized ziploc bag. Pour 1 cup dressing in the bag and allow chicken to marinate for at least 3 hours but no longer than 12 hours. Grill chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through.
Place remaining Italian dressing in a large saute pan over medium heat. Add rosemary sprig, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Move the rosemary sprig around the pan to allow the flavor to mix into the glaze. Place chicken in the pan and spoon glaze over the chicken until there is no glaze in the pan. Set aside.
Cook pasta in a large pot according to package directions. Drain and set aside. In another large saute pan, add olive oil, spinach, and garlic and saute over medium heat until spinach is cooked. Add tomatoes and stir in with the spinach. Then add pasta and toss together with tongs.
To serve, divide desired amount of pasta onto four plates. Add a chicken breast to each plate and garnish with lemon wheel and rosemary sprigs.
Saturday, July 30 2016
Learn how to make flavorful homemade Italian meatballs for your next baked pasta recipe. Watch as we show you how to form perfectly shaped meatballs plus storage secrets.
Ingredients
8 - ounces bulk Italian sausage
8 - ounces ground beef
1 - cup chopped onion (1 large)
1/2 - cup finely chopped carrot (1 medium)
1/2 - cup chopped green sweet pepper (1 small)
1/4 - cup chopped celery
3 - ounces pancetta or bacon, chopped
4 - cloves garlic, minced
1 - 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
1 - 6 ounce can tomato paste
1/2 - cup dry red wine or chicken broth
1/4 - cup snipped fresh basil or 1 tablespoon dried basil
, crushed
2 - tablespoons snipped fresh oregano or 2 teaspoons dried oregano, crushed
1/2 - teaspoon salt
1/4 - teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 - cup whole milk
15 - dried lasagna noodles
1 - recipe Porcini-Parmesan Sauce
1 - cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
(4 ounces) - Snipped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley
Directions
For meat sauce, in a 4-quart Dutch oven cook sausage, ground beef, onion, carrot, sweet pepper, celery, pancetta, and garlic over medium-high heat until meat is brown and onion is tender, using a wooden spoon to break up meat as it cooks. Drain off fat.
Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, wine, dried basil and oregano (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in milk and fresh basil and oregano (if using).
Meanwhile, cook lasagna noodles according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain again.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. To assemble, spread about 1 cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of an ungreased 3-quart rectangular baking dish. Top with three of the noodles and 2 cups of the meat sauce. Top with three more noodles and half of the Porcini-Parmesan Sauce. Repeat layering noodles, meat sauce, noodles, and Porcini-Parmesan Sauce. Top with the remaining three noodles and the remaining meat sauce.
Place lasagna in a foil-lined shallow baking pan; cover lasagna with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake, uncovered, for 20 to 30 minutes more or until heated through. Let stand for 20 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with parsley.
Porcini-Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
1
ounce dried porcini mushrooms
4
cloves garlic, minced
3
tablespoons butter
3
tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2
cups whole milk
1/2
cup dry white wine or chicken broth
1
15 ounce carton ricotta cheese
1
cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
(4 ounces)
1/4
cup snipped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley
1/4
cup snipped fresh basil
1/2
teaspoon salt
Directions
In a small bowl combine mushrooms and enough boiling water to cover. Let stand for 10 minutes; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain again. Chop mushrooms; set aside.
In a large saucepan cook and stir garlic in butter over medium heat for 30 seconds. Stir in flour until combined. Slowly stir in milk and wine or chicken broth (milk may curdle if using wine, but sauce will appear smooth when finished). Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat. Stir in mushrooms, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, and salt. Makes about 4 1/2 cups.
Nutrition Facts (Bolognese Lasagna with Porcini-Ricotta Filling)
Per serving: 487 kcal cal., 25 g fat (12 g sat. fat, 2 g polyunsaturated fat, 8 g monounsatured fat), 72 mg chol., 977 mg sodium, 39 g carb., 4 g fiber, 8 g sugar, 24 g pro. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Monday, May 30 2016
Ingredients
1/4 - cup bottled Italian salad dressing
2 - tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 - tablespoon honey
1/8 - teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 - tablespoons olive oil
1 - pound chicken breast tenderloins
10 - ounces fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces, or one 10-ounce package frozen cut asparagus, thawed and well drained
1 - cup purchased shredded carrot
1 - small tomato, seeded and chopped
Directions
In a small bowl, stir together salad dressing, balsamic vinegar, honey, and crushed red pepper. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until chicken is tender and no longer pink, turning once. Add half of the dressing mixture to skillet; turn chicken to coat. Transfer chicken to a serving platter; cover and keep warm.
Add asparagus and carrot to skillet. Cook and stir for 3 to 4 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender; transfer to serving platter.
Stir remaining dressing mixture; add to skillet. Cook and stir for 1 minute, scraping up browned bits from bottom of skillet. Drizzle the dressing mixture over chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle with tomato. Makes 4 servings.
Nutrition Facts (Balsamic Chicken and Vegetables)
Per serving: 269 kcal cal., 12 g fat (2 g sat. fat, 66 mg chol., 323 mg sodium, 12 g carb., 2 g fiber, 27 g pro. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Wednesday, May 11 2016
Ingredients
1 - 8 ounce pkg. shredded Italian blend cheeses (2 cups)
6 - slices thinly sliced deli-style ham
6 - 6 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1 - 24 ounce jar pasta sauce
1/3 - cup Italian-seasoned panko bread crumbs, toasted*
Snipped fresh basil or parsley leaves
Hot cooked pasta (optional)
Directions
The night before, set aside 1/2 cup of the cheese; wrap and refrigerate. Place one slice of ham on a clean work surface. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of the remaining shredded cheese and top with a chicken breast half. Carefully roll up to enclose chicken. Place in the removable crockery liner of a 3 1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker. Repeat with remaining ham, cheese, and chicken breasts. Pour pasta sauce over chicken. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
The next day, let crockery liner stand at room temperature for 15 minutes. Place liner in the slow cooker unit. Cover and cook on low for 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Sprinkle with reserved 1/2 cup shredded cheese, toasted panko, and basil before serving. If desired, serve with hot cooked pasta.
From the Test Kitchen
*TIP
To toast panko, heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add panko and cook 2 to 3 minutes or until toasted, shaking skillet occasionally.
Nutrition Facts (Saucy Italian Chicken)
Per serving: 412 kcal cal., 15 g fat (7 g sat. fat, 1 g polyunsaturated fat, 2 g monounsatured fat), 158 mg chol., 1055 mg sodium, 14 g carb., 2 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 51 g pro. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Tuesday, May 10 2016
Ingredients
2 9 ounce packages refrigerated cheese-filled ravioli
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, chopped (1 cup)
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 14 1/2 ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 10 3/4 ounce can condensed tomato soup
1 teaspoon dried basil, crushed
1 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (6 ounces)
1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese (2 ounces)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Cook ravioli according to package directions; drain. Return to pan; cover to keep warm.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet cook ground meat, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is brown and onion is tender. Drain off fat. Stir in tomatoes, soup, basil, and oregano. Gently stir in cooked ravioli.
Transfer mixture to an ungreased 3-quart baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Bake, uncovered, about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Baked Beef Ravioli)
Per serving: 503 kcal cal., 20 g fat (9 g sat. fat, 1 g polyunsaturated fat, 7 g monounsatured fat), 113 mg chol., 854 mg sodium, 40 g carb., 3 g fiber, 8 g sugar, 40 g pro. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Monday, January 11 2016
ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
1 egg
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 25 ounce jar Prego® Marinara Italian Sauce
2 cups frozen peas and carrots
1 16 ounce package spaghetti, cooked and drained (about 8 cups)
Grated Parmesan cheese
directions
Mix thoroughly the beef, bread crumbs and egg in a medium bowl. Shape the mixture into 16 (1-1/2-inch) meatballs.
Heat the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they're well browned. Remove the meatballs from the skillet. Pour off any fat.
Stir the sauce and vegetables in the skillet and heat to a boil. Return the meatballs to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Serve the meatballs with the sauce over the pasta. Sprinkle with the cheese.
Tuesday, January 05 2016
ingredients
3 large eggs
1/3 cup prepared pesto
1/4 cup milk
1 1/2 cups plain bread crumbs
1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
4 cups spicy pasta sauce
2 medium eggplants (about 2 1/2 lbs total), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch rounds
1 pkg (8 oz) Italian cheese blend
1 pound spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil (optional)
directions
In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, pesto and milk. In a second bowl, toss bread crumbs and 1/4 cup of Parmesan.
Set aside 1/2 cup of the sauce. Coat slow cooker bowl with nonstick cooking spray. Spoon 1/2 cup of the sauce on bottom of slow cooker.
Dip each eggplant slice in egg mixture, then bread crumb mixture, and place on a cutting board. Layer one-third of the eggplant slices into slow cooker (about 8 pieces). Top with 1 cup sauce and 2/3 cup Italian cheese blend. Repeat twice. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 1/2 to 6 hours.
During last 30 minutes of cooking time, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook 10 minutes. Drain and toss with remaining 2 tbsp Parmesan and the olive oil. Heat reserved sauce gently in microwave or saucepan. Serve alongside eggplant and spaghetti. Garnish with basil, if using.
Tip
For easy cleanup:
Line your slow cooker with a disposable slow cooker liner. Add ingredients as directed in recipe. Once your dish is finished cooking, spoon the food out of your slow cooker and simply dispose of the liner. Do not lift or transport the disposable liner with food inside.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 606, Fat, total (g) 25, chol. (mg) 108, sat. fat (g) 8, carb. (g) 73, fiber (g) 10, pro. (g) 25, sodium (mg) 982, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Tuesday, October 20 2015
ingredients
1 pound spaghetti
6 slices bacon, diced
1 cup milk
2 large eggs plus 2 egg yolks
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
directions
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook 10 minutes or as per package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
Meanwhile, add bacon to a large saute pan. Cook over medium heat 6 minutes or until slightly crispy. Drain on paper towels, reserving 2 tbsp of the drippings.
Blend milk, eggs, egg yolks and salt.
Heat bacon drippings over medium heat. Whisk in flour; cook 1 minute. Quickly pour in milk mixture, whisking constantly to keep eggs from scrambling. Cook 2 to 3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in 1/2 cup of the cheese.
Toss drained pasta with sauce, bacon, remaining 1/4 cup cheese and some of the reserved pasta water. Sprinkle with black pepper just before serving.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 468, Fat, total (g) 15, chol. (mg) 127, sat. fat (g) 6, carb. (g) 61, fiber (g) 3, pro. (g) 20, sodium (mg) 629, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Tuesday, October 06 2015
Roasting beef over a bed of fresh herbs, like the sprigs of rosemary, oregano, and thyme in this recipe, infuses the meat with fragrance.
ingredients
1 2 1/2 - 3 pound beef tenderloin
2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt or 1/4 tsp. salt
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 sprigs fresh oregano
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 Mushroom Tumble or Horseradish Cream (see below)
Fresh thyme sprigs
Horseradish Cream
1 7 - 8 ounce carton creme fraiche or dairy sour cream
2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Mushroom Tumble
6 cups assorted mushrooms (halve any large mushrooms and remove stems, if necessary), such as chanterelle, portobello, Shiitake, and oyster
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
coarse sea salt
cracked black pepper
directions
Preheat oven to 250 degrees F. Drizzle tenderloin with cooking oil. Rub minced garlic evenly over the surface of the meat. Sprinkle with pepper and salt.
Place rosemary, oregano, and thyme sprigs in the bottom of a 13x9x2-inch baking pan. Add a roasting rack. Place meat on rack.
Roast meat, uncovered, 20 minutes. Increase oven temperature to 425 degrees F. Roast until an instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest part of meat registers 135 degrees F (about 30 to 40 minutes). Remove from oven. Cover loosely with foil. Let stand 10 minutes.
Serve beef with Mushroom Tumble or Horseradish Cream; sprinkle with fresh thyme sprigs. Makes 8 to 10 servings.
Horseradish Cream
In a small bowl stir together carton creme fraiche or dairy sour cream and prepared horseradish. Stir in salt and pepper. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Remove from refrigerator; allow to stand 30 minutes before serving. Makes 1 cup.
Mushroom Tumble
In an extra large bowl toss together mushrooms with olive oil,lemon juice, and soy sauce. Cook, uncovered, in a very large skillet over medium heat until tender, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and cracked black pepper.
Tip
Test Kitchen Tip:
Slow roasting in the early stages ensures that the meat is tender.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 316, Fat, total (g) 20, chol. (mg) 87, sat. fat (g) 5, carb. (g) 3, Monounsaturated fat (g) 9, Polyunsaturated fat (g) 3, fiber (g) 1, sugar (g) 2, pro. (g) 32, vit. A (IU) 0, vit. C (mg) 1.77, Thiamin (mg) 0.22, Riboflavin (mg) 0.62, Niacin (mg) 6.52, Pyridoxine (Vit. B6) (mg) 0.45, Folate (µg) 8.06, Cobalamin (Vit. B12) (µg) 3.36, sodium (mg) 238, Potassium (mg) 708, calcium (mg) 10.1, iron (mg) 4.32, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Friday, September 18 2015
These eggplant and cheese stacks with its fresh tomato and basil sauce showcase summer's finest vegetables. With its generous portion of ricotta and cheddar filling, this can be a satisfying meal.
ingredients
1 large eggplant (about 2 pounds), trimmed
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 pound cottage cheese OR: ricotta cheese
1/4 pound sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh marjoram
1 tablespoon bread crumbs
Fresh Tomato Sauce recipe below
Fresh Tomato Sauce
1 large tomato, seeded and diced
3 tablespoons sliced fresh basil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
directions
Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Cut eggplant crosswise into 18 slices. Pat dry with paper toweling. Spread out more paper toweling for blotting. Mix together flour, salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in shallow dish or onto waxed paper.
Heat 1/4 cup oil in each of 2 large skillets over medium-high heat. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour to coat both sides.
Fry 2 or 3 slices of eggplant per skillet until browned on both sides, about 4 minutes total. Transfer to paper toweling to drain. Repeat until all slices are fried, adding more oil as needed.
Mix cottage cheese or ricotta, Cheddar cheese, parsley, marjoram and remaining pepper in a bowl.
To assemble stacks:
In large baking dish, place 1 slice eggplant. Spread on 3 tablespoons cottage cheese mixture; top with eggplant slice, 3 more tablespoons cottage cheese mixture and final slice of eggplant. Repeat with remaining cottage cheese mixture and eggplant to make 6 stacks. Sprinkle with crumbs.
Bake, uncovered, in 400 degree F oven for 10 minutes. Serve immediately with Fresh Tomato Sauce. Makes 6 servings.
Fresh Tomato Sauce
Mix together in bowl tomato, seeded and diced; sliced fresh basil; balsamic vinegar; olive oil; salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Makes about 1-1/2 cups sauce. Makes 6 servings.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 456, Fat, total (g) 35, chol. (mg) 31, sat. fat (g) 8, carb. (g) 21, fiber (g) 4, pro. (g) 17, sodium (mg) 706, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Saturday, September 12 2015
Three kinds of cheese--ricotta, garlic-herb and pre-shredded Italian blend--top this 20-minute pizza.
ingredients
2 ready-to-use thin crust Italian pizza bread shells (two 10-ounce packages)
2 cups preshredded Italian blend cheese
4 ounces thinly sliced smoked turkey, cut into 1/2-inch-wide strips
1 container (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
1 container (4 ounces) garlic-and-herb cheese spread
1/4 cup thinly sliced basil
directions
Heat oven to 450 degrees .
Place each crust on a baking sheet. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheese over each pizza shell. Evenly distribute turkey over each.
In small bowl, mix ricotta and cheese spread. Evenly dollop over each pizza.
Bake in 450 degrees oven until heated through and cheese is melted, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle the basil over the pizzas. To serve the pizzas, cut each into 6 equal wedges.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 302, Fat, total (g) 15, chol. (mg) 48, sat. fat (g) 8, carb. (g) 25, fiber (g) 1, pro. (g) 15, sodium (mg) 583, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Tuesday, May 19 2015
ingredients
3 1/2 ounces oil-packed dried tomatoes, well-drained (3/4 cup)
3 cloves garlic
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup seasoned fine dry bread crumbs
1 1/2 pounds ground uncooked chicken
1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon whole milk
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
2 teaspoons dried thyme, crushed
1 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
1 teaspoon dried marjoram, crushed
2 tablespoons olive oil
White Sauce for Meatballs
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup whipping cream or whole milk
1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a food processor, pulse the dried tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the bread crumbs and pulse to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add chicken, ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, parsley, thyme, oregano, and marjoram. Combine until uniform in appearance. Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls (about 1 1/2 tablespoons each).
Place in a 15x10x1-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Brush with olive oil. Bake for 16 minutes or until cooked through (165 degrees F).
White Sauce for Meatballs
In a medium saucepan combine flour and butter over medium-high heat. Cook and stir for 2 minutes until it turns blonde.
Add the chicken broth, cream, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir 1 minute more. Stir in parsley.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 47, Fat, total (g) 3, chol. (mg) 26, sat. fat (g) 1, carb. (g) 1, Monounsaturated fat (g) 1, Polyunsaturated fat (g) 0, Trans fatty acid (g) 0, fiber (g) 0, sugar (g) 0, pro. (g) 4, vit. A (IU) 67.02, vit. C (mg) 2.34, Thiamin (mg) 0.02, Riboflavin (mg) 0.07, Niacin (mg) 1.04, Pyridoxine (Vit. B6) (mg) 0.1, Folate (µg) 2.51, Cobalamin (Vit. B12) (µg) 0.13, sodium (mg) 46, Potassium (mg) 131, calcium (mg) 14, iron (mg) 0.42, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Monday, May 18 2015
ingredients
1 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup farro
6 4-inch diameter portobello mushrooms, stems removed
Olive-oil nonstick cooking spray
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
2 teaspoons olive oil
2/3 cup thinly sliced leeks (2 medium)
1/3 cup chopped dried tomatoes
3 tablespoons snipped fresh basil
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons snipped fresh thyme leaves
8 ounces Swiss chard, stemmed and coarsely chopped (3 cups)
6 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a large saucepan bring water to boiling. Stir in farro; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, about 25 minutes or until tender. Drain. Set aside.
Meanwhile, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil; set aside. Coat both sides of mushroom caps lightly with cooking spray. Sprinkle stem sides of mushrooms with pepper. Arrange mushrooms stem side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake about 15 minutes or until mushrooms are just tender. Set aside.
In a large nonstick skillet heat olive oil over medium heat. Add leeks, dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, and thyme. Cook and stir for 4 to 5 minutes or until leeks are tender. Gradually stir in chard. Cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes or until chard wilts. Remove from heat. Stir in cheese, farro, and vinegar.
Fill mushroom caps with chard mixture. Bake about 10 minutes or until heated through.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 196, Fat, total (g) 7, chol. (mg) 20, sat. fat (g) 3, carb. (g) 22, Monounsaturated fat (g) 1, Polyunsaturated fat (g) 0, Trans fatty acid (g) 0, fiber (g) 4, sugar (g) 5, pro. (g) 11, vit. A (IU) 2786.3, vit. C (mg) 15.31, Thiamin (mg) 0.11, Riboflavin (mg) 0.2, Niacin (mg) 5.6, Pyridoxine (Vit. B6) (mg) 0.28, Folate (µg) 46.54, Cobalamin (Vit. B12) (µg) 0.06, sodium (mg) 198, Potassium (mg) 699, calcium (mg) 207, iron (mg) 1.93, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Saturday, May 02 2015
ingredients
6 ounces dried multigrain penne pasta
Nonstick cooking spray
8 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons snipped fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried basil, crushed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 6 ounce package fresh baby spinach or spinach
1 cup seeded and chopped roma tomatoes (3 medium)
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (1 ounce)
directions
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain again. Meanwhile, coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray; heat skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink and vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. Cool slightly.
In an extra-large bowl combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. For vinaigrette, in a small screw-top jar combine oil, vinegar, basil, salt, and pepper. Cover and shake well.
Pour vinaigrette over pasta mixture; toss gently to coat. Add spinach, tomatoes, and cheese; toss gently to combine.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 374, Fat, total (g) 15, chol. (mg) 41, sat. fat (g) 3, carb. (g) 38, Monounsaturated fat (g) 8, Polyunsaturated fat (g) 1, Trans fatty acid (g) 0, fiber (g) 7, sugar (g) 5, pro. (g) 22, vit. A (IU) 3310.16, vit. C (mg) 20.69, Thiamin (mg) 0.08, Riboflavin (mg) 0.19, Niacin (mg) 7.1, Pyridoxine (Vit. B6) (mg) 0.52, Folate (µg) 97, Cobalamin (Vit. B12) (µg) 0.22, sodium (mg) 371, Potassium (mg) 437, calcium (mg) 148, iron (mg) 3.19, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Sunday, February 22 2015
ingredients
1 pound fresh or frozen medium shrimp in shells
8 ounces dried elbow macaroni (2 cups)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 cup half-and-half
1 1/4 cups shredded fontina cheese (5 oz.)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
1 1/2 cups lightly packed fresh basil leaves, chopped
Fresh basil leaves
directions
Thaw shrimp, if frozen. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Peel and devein shrimp, removing tails. Rinse shrimp; pat dry with paper towels. Chop shrimp and set aside.
Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and keep warm.
In large bowl stir together eggs, butter, half-and-half, 1 cup of the fontina cheese, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, garlic, pine nuts, chopped basil, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Stir in shrimp and macaroni. Transfer to buttered 2-quart casserole. Top with remaining cheeses.
Bake, uncovered, 40 to 45 minutes or until heated through and shrimp pieces are opaque. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Top with fresh basil leaves. Makes 6 servings.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 509, Fat, total (g) 27, chol. (mg) 254, sat. fat (g) 14, carb. (g) 33, fiber (g) 2, pro. (g) 33, vit. A (IU) 1457.71, vit. C (mg) 4.13, sodium (mg) 694, calcium (mg) 333.19, iron (mg) 4.14, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Wednesday, February 04 2015
ingredients
1/2 cup light dairy sour cream
1/4 teaspoon dried dillweed
1 pound boneless beef top round steak, trimmed and cut into thin bite-size strips*
1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 small onion, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
1/2 teaspoon bottled minced garlic (1 clove)
3 cups dried wide noodles (6 ounces)
3 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 14 ounce can beef broth
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Ground black pepper
directions
In a small bowl, stir together sour cream and dillweed; set aside.
In a large skillet, cook beef, half at a time, in hot oil over medium-high heat until desired doneness. Remove beef from skillet and set aside. Add onion and garlic to the same skillet; cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until onion is tender.
Meanwhile, cook noodles according to package directions, adding broccoli for the last 3 minutes of cooking; drain well. Return noodles and broccoli to pan; cover and keep warm.
Sprinkle flour over onion mixture in skillet. Stir to coat. Add broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 1 minute more. Return all beef to skillet; heat through. Season to taste with pepper. Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream mixture. Serve beef mixture on top of noodles and broccoli. Makes 4 servings.
Tip
*
Partially freeze beef for easier slicing.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 440, Fat, total (g) 12, chol. (mg) 96, sat. fat (g) 4, carb. (g) 45, Monosaturated fat (g) 4, Polyunsaturated fat (g) 2, fiber (g) 4, sugar (g) 4, pro. (g) 37, vit. A (IU) 485.9, vit. C (mg) 61.41, Thiamin (mg) 0.68, Riboflavin (mg) 0.5, Niacin (mg) 12.04, Pyridoxine (Vit. B6) (mg) 1.04, Folate (µg) 173.37, Cobalamin (Vit. B12) (µg) 1.77, sodium (mg) 513, Potassium (mg) 817, calcium (mg) 111.06, iron (mg) 5.04, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Thursday, January 08 2015
ingredients
1 19.76ounce package Johnsonville® Italian Mild Sausage Links, grilled and coin-sliced
1 16 ounce package rigatoni pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large red pepper, chunked and sauteed
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 26 ounce jar of your favorite pasta sauce
directions
Cook sausage according to package directions, keep warm. Cook the rigatoni according to directions, keep warm. In a large pan, place olive oil and garlic, saute lightly for 30 seconds. Add peppers and cook until crisp tender. Combine cooked sausage and pasta sauce with peppers and heat until warm. At this point you may mix with the pasta or serve separately. Top with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Tuesday, January 06 2015
ingredients
12 ounces whole-wheat penne pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups finely diced onion
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 26 ounce can low-sodium crushed tomatoes
2 7 ounce jars roasted red peppers, drained, rinsed and chopped
1 teaspoon finely chopped oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
1 sprig fresh rosemary (or 1/4 teaspoon dried)
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup lightly packed basil leaves, plus more for garnish
1/2 ounce finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (about 6 tablespoons)
directions
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.
As pasta water comes to a boil, heat oil in a large heavy saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and softened, 6 to 7 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more, stirring occasionally. Add tomatoes, peppers, oregano, rosemary, salt and pepper; bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until sauce is reduced slightly, about 15 minutes.
Remove sauce from heat, remove rosemary sprig (if using) and stir in basil. Transfer to a food processor and puree, leaving a few chunks if desired. Top pasta with sauce and Parmigiano-Reggiano and garnish with basil.
Monday, December 22 2014
ingredients
1 20 ounce package frozen cheese ravioli, or tortellini (4 cups)
6 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 16 ounce bag frozen chopped or whole-leaf spinach
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
directions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil; cook ravioli (or tortellini) according to package directions.
Meanwhile, heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add salt, crushed red pepper to taste, spinach and water. Cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach has thawed, wilted and heated through, 5 to 7 minutes. Divide among 4 bowls, top with the pasta and drizzle 1 teaspoon of the remaining oil over each portion. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 277, Fat, total (g) 13, chol. (mg) 25, sat. fat (g) 4, carb. (g) 28, Monosaturated fat (g) 7, fiber (g) 6, pro. (g) 14, vit. A (IU) 13119.36, vit. C (mg) 29.52, sodium (mg) 654, Potassium (mg) 706, calcium (mg) 353.39, Vegetables () 1, Starch () 1.5, Fat () 2.5, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie die
Tuesday, December 16 2014
ingredients
1 Johnsonville® Mild Italian Sausage (Ground or de-cased links)
1/4 cup olive oil, separated
2 loaves focaccia bread (12 oz. each), cut into 1-in. cubes
1 teaspoon coarse ground pepper
1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
1 small green pepper, diced
1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup pimiento-stuffed olives, chopped
5 large leaves fresh basil, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups water or white wine
1/4 cup butter, cubed
directions
In a skillet, cook and crumble sausage in 1 tbsp. olive oil until no longer pink; set aside.
In a large bowl, combine bread cubes and the remaining oil. Sprinkle with pepper; toss to coat.
Transfer to a greased 15-in. x 10-in. baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes or until crisp and a lightly browned, stirring once.
Remove pan to a wire rack to cool slightly.
In a very large bowl, combine the bread cubes, reserved sausage, Parmesan cheese, green pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, basil and garlic. Combine eggs and water; pour over bread mixture and toss to coat.
Transfer to a buttered 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Dot with butter. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 35-40 minutes or until hot.
Saturday, November 22 2014
ingredients
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 large carrots, finely chopped
1 large onion, diced
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
2 14 ounce cans vegetable broth
2 medium zucchini, diced
9 ounce (about 2 cups) fresh or frozen tortellini, preferably spinach-&-cheese
4 plum tomatoes, diced
2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
directions
Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add carrots and onion; stir, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and just beginning to brown, 6 to 7 minutes. Stir in garlic and rosemary and cook, stirring often, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in broth and zucchini; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is beginning to soften, about 3 minutes. Add tortellini and tomatoes and simmer until the tortellini are plump and the tomatoes are beginning to break down, 6 to 10 minutes. Stir vinegar into the hot soup just before serving.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 203, Fat, total (g) 8, chol. (mg) 10, sat. fat (g) 2, carb. (g) 28, Monosaturated fat (g) 4, fiber (g) 4, pro. (g) 7, vit. A (IU) 3887.22, vit. C (mg) 20.67, sodium (mg) 386, Potassium (mg) 400, Vegetables () 2, Starch () 1, Fat () 1.5, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Monday, November 10 2014
ingredients
-
-
2 26 ounce jars spaghetti sauce with mushrooms and onions
-
2 24 ounce packages frozen ravioli
-
1 12 ounce package frozen cooked Italian meatballs, thawed
-
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 ounces)
-
1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
directions
Lightly coat a 5 1/2- or 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Add 1 cup of the spaghetti sauce. Add frozen ravioli from one package and the meatballs. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Top with remaining spaghetti sauce from first jar. Add ravioli from remaining package and remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Pour spaghetti sauce from second jar over mixture in cooker.
Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 4 1/2 to 5 hours or on high-heat setting for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Turn off cooker. Sprinkle ravioli mixture with Parmesan cheese. Cover; let stand for 15 minutes before serving.
nutrition information
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 510, Fat, total (g) 18, chol. (mg) 78, sat. fat (g) 8, carb. (g) 67, Monosaturated fat (g) 2, Polyunsaturated fat (g) 0, fiber (g) 5, sugar (g) 15, pro. (g) 26, vit. A (IU) 1360.53, vit. C (mg) 10.63, sodium (mg) 1551, calcium (mg) 413.97, iron (mg) 2.88, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Wednesday, October 15 2014
ingredients
-
1 9 ounce package refrigerated angel hair pasta
-
4 large carrots, thinly sliced
-
-
1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
-
6 tablespoons purchased basil pesto
-
1/4 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
-
-
directions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
Meanwhile, in 12-inch skillet cook carrots in 1 tablespoon melted butter over medium heat for 3 minutes. Add chicken; cook and stir 4 to 5 minutes or until no pink remains in chicken. Add 4 tablespoons pesto; toss to coat.
Drain pasta. Return to pan; toss with remaining butter and pesto. Serve with chicken mixture. Sprinkle pasta with Parmesan cheese and ground black pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and top with basil. Makes 6 servings.
nutrition information
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 390, Fat, total (g) 16, chol. (mg) 114, sat. fat (g) 5, carb. (g) 28, fiber (g) 3, pro. (g) 33, sodium (mg) 369, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Saturday, October 04 2014

ingredients
-
1/2 cup shredded carrot (1 medium)
-
-
1/3 cup chopped red or green sweet pepper
-
1/4 cup sliced green onions (2)
-
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 tablespoon snipped fresh parsley
-
-
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
-
6 tenderized beef round steaks (about 2 pounds total)*
-
2 cups purchased marinara sauce
-
Hot cooked pasta (optional)
directions
For filling:
In a small bowl, combine carrot, zucchini, sweet pepper, green onions, cheese, parsley, garlic, and black pepper. Spoon 1/4 cup of the filling onto each piece of meat. Roll up meat around the filling; secure with clean kitchen string or wooden toothpicks.
Place meat rolls in a 3 1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker. Pour marinara sauce over meat rolls.
Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 8 to 10 hours or on high-heat setting for 4 to 5 hours.
Remove and discard string or toothpicks. If desired, serve meat rolls and marinara sauce over hot cooked pasta.
Tip
- * If you can't find tenderized round steak, ask a butcher to tenderize 2 pounds boneless beef round steak and cut it into six pieces. Or cut 2 pounds boneless beef round steak into six serving-size pieces; place each piece of steak between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound steak pieces to 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
nutrition information
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 261, Fat, total (g) 9, chol. (mg) 73, sat. fat (g) 3, carb. (g) 7, fiber (g) 2, pro. (g) 36, sodium (mg) 523, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Tuesday, August 12 2014
ingredients
-
-
-
6 cloves garlic, minced or 1 Tbsp. bottled minced garlic
-
-
3/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
-
1 pint small tomatoes, halved
-
1/2 cup chicken broth or pasta water
-
-
1/2 cup halved, pitted kalamata olives (optional)
-
Grated Parmesan cheese; fresh basil (optional)
directions
Heat broiler. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, set aside.
Meanwhile, in bowl combine 1 tablespoon of the oil and about one-third of the minced garlic; brush on cut sides of muffins. Place muffins on baking sheet. Broil, 3 to 4 inches from broiler, for 2 to 3 minutes, until golden. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the chopped basil; set aside.
In large saucepan heat remaining oil over medium-high. Add remaining garlic, basil, and the tomatoes. Cook 2 minutes; add broth and sugar. Cook 3 to 4 minutes, until tomatoes soften. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in pasta and olives; heat through. Sprinkle cheese and basil.
Serve toasted muffins with pasta. Top with Parmesan and basil. Makes 4 servings.
nutrition information
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 450, Fat, total (g) 12, chol. (mg) 1, sat. fat (g) 2, carb. (g) 72, Monosaturated fat (g) 8, Polyunsaturated fat (g) 2, fiber (g) 3, sugar (g) 7, pro. (g) 12, vit. A (IU) 1068.98, vit. C (mg) 14.17, Thiamin (mg) 0.82, Riboflavin (mg) 0.43, Niacin (mg) 5.72, Pyridoxine (Vit. B6) (mg) 0.16, Folate (µg) 189.5, Cobalamin (Vit. B12) (µg) 0, sodium (mg) 403, Potassium (mg) 291, calcium (mg) 50.48, iron (mg) 3.6, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Tuesday, May 13 2014
ingredients
-
-
2 ounces hot Italian dried sausage (soppressata), quartered lengthwise and then thinly sliced crosswise
-
-
2 pounds mussels, well scrubbed, beards removed
-
1/2 cup good-quality store-bought marinara sauce, such as Rao's
-
1 cup coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley (about 1 bunch)
directions
In a saucepan large enough to hold the mussels, (such as a 4-quart pan), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, stirring, until it just begins to brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the wine and then the mussels. Increase the heat to medium high, cover the pan, and cook until the mussels just open, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the marinara and use a large spoon to toss it with the mussels. Cook for another minute or two, just to heat the marinara. Add the parsley, give a final toss, divide the mussels and sauce among four warm bowls, and serve.
Tuesday, May 06 2014
ingredients
Grits:
-
-
-
1 1/4 cups Old Fashioned Grits
-
1/3 cup Shredded Asiago Cheese (can substitute fresh grated parmesan)
Sausage and Shrimp:
-
1 Johnsonville® Hot Italian Sausage, coin sliced
-
2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
-
1/2 pound Medium-sized Shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
-
1 small Red Pepper, chopped
-
1/2 cup Corn (cut off the cob or frozen)
-
1/3 cup Sliced Green Onions
-
-
1/2 teaspoon Cajun Seasoning, (optional)
-
directions
Note:
Prep all ingredients in the recipe before starting to cook.
For the Grits:
In a medium saucepan, bring broth and milk to a gentle boil and slowly whisk in grits. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes stirring frequently. While the grits are cooking prepare the sausage and shrimp. When the grits are done stir in the asiago cheese. Keep them warm and continue to stir until ready to serve. (Grits cannot be made ahead of time.)
For the Sausage and Shrimp:
Cook coin sliced sausage in a 12 skillet over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a bowl and reserve.
Add olive oil to the hot skillet and cook the shrimp, turning until cooked through about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, red pepper, corn, green onions, garlic, seasoning and water and cook another 3-4 minutes. Add the cooked sausage and heat through.
Spoon grits into individual bowls and top with sausage and shrimp mixture.
Monday, April 21 2014
Recipe from

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
ingredients
-
-
6 thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 4 ounces each
-
-
1 package (8 ounces) sliced brown mushrooms
-
-
1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
-
-
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
-
1 package (10 ounces) brown rice couscous (such as Lundberg)
-
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
-
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
directions
Place the rice flour on a large plate. Coat the chicken in the flour. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and saute half the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove to a plate and keep warm. Repeat with a second tablespoon of the oil and the remaining chicken.
Add the remaining tablespoon oil to the skillet and stir in the mushrooms. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until tender. Off heat, add in the marsala and cook for 1 minute, scraping any browned bits from the skillet. Add the broth, salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and return the chicken and any accumulated juices to skillet. Gently simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare couscous following package directions, about 15 minutes.
Stir butter and parsley into the sauce and serve with the cooked couscous.
nutrition information
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 429, Fat, total (g) 14, chol. (mg) 78, sat. fat (g) 3, carb. (g) 43, fiber (g) 4, pro. (g) 32, sodium (mg) 410, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Tuesday, April 01 2014
Marsala, Italy's most famous fortified wine, gives chicken an unforgettable flavor in this low-calorie recipe.
Recipe from

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 11 mins
ingredients
-
4 small (12 ounces total) boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
-
-
1 1/2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
-
2 tablespoons sliced green onion
-
-
-
1/4 cup dry Marsala or dry sherry
directions
Place 1 piece of chicken, boned side up, between 2 pieces of clear plastic wrap. Working from the center to the edges, pound lightly with a meat mallet to about 1/4-inch thickness. Remove plastic wrap. Repeat with remaining chicken breast halves.
Spray a large skillet with nonstick spray coating. Preheat skillet over medium heat. Add 2 chicken breast halves. Cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes or until tender and no pink remains. Transfer to a platter; keep warm. Repeat with remaining chicken breast halves.
Carefully add mushrooms, green onion, water, and salt to skillet. Cook over medium heat until mushrooms are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated (about 3 minutes). Add Marsala or dry sherry to skillet. Heat through. Spoon vegetables and sauce over chicken. Makes 4 servings.
nutrition information
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 161, Fat, total (g) 3, chol. (mg) 72, carb. (g) 2, pro. (g) 27, sodium (mg) 191, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Tuesday, March 25 2014
Cumin and nutmeg spice these ground beef and pork appetizer meatballs.
Recipe from

Yield: 36 appetizers
Prep Time: 40 mins
ingredients
Meatballs:
-
-
3/4 cup soft bread crumbs
-
1 tablespoon snipped fresh Italian or regular parsley
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3 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
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1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
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Sauce:
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1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
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1/3 cup dry red wine or beef broth
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1 14 1/2ounce can diced tomatoes
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Fresh Italian or regular parsley (optional)
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Toasted cheese-topped baguette-style French bread slices, (optional)
directions
Meatballs:
Combine egg, bread crumbs, snipped parsley, the 3 or 4 cloves garlic, the 1/2 teaspoon salt, cumin, nutmeg, red pepper, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Add ground beef and ground pork; mix well.
Shape mixture into 36 meatballs. Coat a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Place meatballs in pan. Bake in a 350 degree F oven about 15 minutes or until thoroughly cooked (160 degrees F). Remove from oven. Place meatballs on paper towels and pat dry.
Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and the 1 clove garlic; cook and stir about 3 minutes or until onion is nearly tender. Stir together cornstarch and red wine or beef broth. Carefully add to skillet along with undrained tomatoes and the 1/8 teaspoon salt. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly; cook and stir for 2 minutes more.
Add meatballs to skillet; stir gently to heat through. Transfer to a serving bowl and, if desired, garnish with additional parsley. Serve immediately with toasted cheese-topped French bread slices, if desired. Makes 36 appetizers.
Make Ahead Tip
- Prepare and bake meatballs; cool. Pack in airtight freezer container or plastic freezer bag; seal, label, and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before adding to sauce as above.
nutrition information
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 34, Fat, total (g) 2, chol. (mg) 13, sat. fat (g) 1, carb. (g) 1, pro. (g) 3, vit. A (RE) 10, vit. C (mg) 2, sodium (mg) 101, iron (mg) 0, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Saturday, March 15 2014
If Daniel Humm were cooking in the northern, more Germanic part of Switzerland, he'd probably serve this spectacular roasted veal with spaetzle, but because he's in the southern, Italian region, he makes a luscious risotto with porcini mushrooms.
Recipe from

Prep Time: 1 hr
Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
ingredients
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1 2 1/2pound bone-in veal loin roast, bones frenched
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Salt and freshly ground pepper
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1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
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3 garlic cloves, 2 thickly sliced, 1 minced
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4 marjoram sprigs plus 1 tablespoon chopped marjoram
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
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Porcini Risotto, for serving
Porcini Risotto
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1 ounce dried porcini mushrooms
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Salt and freshly ground pepper
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1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
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1 cup arborio rice (7 ounces)
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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1 cup freshlygrated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (3 ounces)
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1 pound fresh porcini or cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
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directions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Season the veal all over with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a medium ovenproof skillet. Add the veal and cook over high heat, turning once or twice, until browned all over, about 4 minutes. Add the sliced garlic cloves and marjoram sprigs to the skillet and roast the veal in the oven for about 45 minutes, turning the meat once or twice, until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center registers 135 degrees. Let the meat rest for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the lemon juice and zest with the chopped marjoram and minced garlic clove. Season with salt and pepper.
Carve the veal roast into 1/2-inch-thick slices and transfer to plates. Spoon the marjoram-lemon mixture over the veal and serve with Porcini Risotto.
Porcini Risotto
In a heatproof bowl, soak the dried porcini in the boiling water until softened, 10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the soaking liquid; rinse the mushrooms to remove any grit. Finely chop the porcini and reserve in a small bowl. Pour the soaking liquid into a medium saucepan, stopping before you reach the sediment at the bottom. Stir in the chicken stock and season with salt and pepper. Warm the stock over low heat.
In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil until shimmering. Add the shallot and garlic and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until softened, 2 minutes. Add the rice and dried porcini and stir to coat. Add the wine and bay leaf and cook until the wine has evaporated. Add about one-fourth of the warm stock and cook over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until nearly absorbed. Continue adding the stock in batches, stirring constantly until the rice is al dente and suspended in a creamy sauce, about 20 minutes. Discard the bay leaf. Stir in the butter, mascarpone and cheese; season with salt and pepper and keep warm.
In a skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the fresh porcini and thyme and cook over high heat, stirring, until softened and golden, 8 minutes. Discard the thyme. Season the porcini with salt and pepper, spoon over the risotto and serve.
Tuesday, March 11 2014
Recipe from

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
ingredients
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 6 ounce packages Tyson® Grilled & Ready® Refrigerated Chicken Breast Strips, finely chopped
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1/2 cup chopped cooked ham
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese
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1 15 ounce container ricotta cheese
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Freshly ground nutmeg (optional)
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Snipped fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)
directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water; drain and set aside.
For sauce, in a medium saucepan cook onion in hot butter over medium heat 4 minutes or until tender but not brown. Stir in flour and salt. Add milk all at once. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat; set aside.
For filling, in a medium bowl combine Grilled & Ready® Chicken Breast Strips, ham, egg yolk, the 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 cup of the Parmesan cheese, and the ricotta cheese. Pour about 1/2 cup of the sauce into a buttered 2-quart rectangular baking dish; spread in a thin layer over bottom of dish.
Use a pastry tube fitted with the largest tip to pipe the filling into cooked manicotti. (Or carefully spoon about 1/3 cup of filling into each shell.) Arrange filled manicotti in baking dish in a single layer. Pour remaining sauce over manicotti. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Bake, uncovered, 20 minutes or until manicotti are light golden and heated through. Let stand 5-10 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with a sprinkling of ground nutmeg and parsley.
Serving Suggestion:
To make ahead: Prepare manicotti as directed through Step 4. Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. To serve, uncover and bake in a 400 degrees F oven 25-30 minutes or until manicotti are light golden and heated through. Let stand 5-10 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with ground nutmeg and parsley.
nutrition information
Per Serving: cal. (kcal) 353, Fat, total (g) 20, chol. (mg) 100, sat. fat (g) 12, carb. (g) 21, fiber (g) 1, pro. (g) 22, vit. A (IU) 632, vit. C (mg) 1, sodium (mg) 614, calcium (mg) 333, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
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