Saturday, December 31, 2016

Happy New Year! 2017

Happy New Year Everyone!!


Shrimp w/ Pasta Roni – Parmesan Cheese

Dinner Tonight: Shrimp w/ Pasta Roni – Parmesan Cheese




Started my day off with a Poached Egg. Then I toasted a couple of slices of Healthy Life Whole
Grain Bread, topped with I Can't Believe It's Not Butter, and made my morning cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. Nice start to the day! In the 20's to start the day and reached into the 40's for a high but had rain showers on and off throughout the day. Did a couple of loads of laundry for Mom. Then I had to repair a shelf in the pantry. And that was pretty much it for the day. Settled in for an afternoon of Football and Basketball. For Dinner tonight I prepared Shrimp w/ Pasta Roni – Parmesan Cheese.




For the Shrimp part of the dish I used Kroger Brand Jumbo Shrimp. I had them in the freezer so I let
them thaw overnight in the fridge. I love Shrimp and all Seafood. For the Shrimp; I started by rinsing the Shrimp off in cold water and letting it dry in a colander. Using a medium size skillet, that I sprayed with Pam Cooking Spray and a 1 tablespoon of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, that I heated on medium heat I cooked the Shrimp. I seasoned them with Old Bay Seasoning. Cooked them 2 minutes per side, turning the Shrimp once. And as the Shrimp was cooking I started to prepare the Pasta.




I’ve prepared this several times now, sometimes I make it using Chicken but Shrimp is my favorite.
Rice – A – Roni, Pasta Roni is an Angel Hair Pasta in a Parmesan Sauce with other natural flavors. It comes with the Pasta Parm Sauce and I added; 1 1/3 cups of water, 2/3 cups of 2% milk, and 2 tablespoons of Blue Bonnet Light Butter. Then to prepare it; In a medium saucepan bring water, milk, margarine or butter to a boil. Then slowly stir in pasta and Special Seasonings. Separate pasta with a fork, if needed. Return to a boil. Reduce heat to medium. Boil uncovered, 4-5 min. or until pasta is just tender, stirring frequently. Sauce will be thin. Let stand 3-5 min. to thicken. There’s 2 servings per box. Nice seasoning and the Parmesan Sauce is very flavorful. I topped the Pasta with some Kraft Reduced Fat Grated Parmesan Cheese and the Shrimp. Too good, this makes one delicious Shrimp and Pasta Dish! Love these Semi-Homemade Meals! I also baked a loaf of Pillsbury French Bread and had a Coke Zero to drink. For Dessert later I had a Weight Watcher's Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Bar.






Pasta Roni – Parmesan Cheese

Inspired by the flavors of Italy, our Pasta Roni® Parmesan Cheese flavor blends angel hair pasta in a
Parmesan cheese sauce with other natural flavors your whole family will enjoy. This flavorful dish is the perfect complement to your family’s favorite Italian recipes.

What You’ll Need
1 1/3 cups of water
2/3 cups of milk
2 tablespoons of margarine*
What You’ll Do:
In a medium saucepan bring water, milk, margarine or butter to a boil. Then slowly stir in pasta and Special Seasonings. Separate pasta with a fork, if needed. Return to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium. Boil uncovered, 4-5 min. or until pasta is just tender, stirring frequently.
Sauce will be thin. Let stand 3-5 min. to thicken.

http://www.ricearoni.com/Products/Pasta_Roni/classic_favorites/Angel_Hair_Pasta_w

Meanwhile back at the SayersBrook Bison Ranch.... Its Corned Bison!

This week from the SayersBrook Bison Ranch (http://www.sayersbrook.com/) its Corned Bison!
Corned Beef made even healthier by using Bison. And the Corned Bison is just one of many delicious and healthy cuts of meat that you can choose from at the SayersBrook website (http://www.sayersbrook.com/). You can choose from Bison, Elk, Wild Boar, Ostrich, and more! Great selections that you can purchase in small amounts or in larger amounts. Now more about the Corned Bison.




Corned Bison: 2 lbs. (32 oz)

A little kraut, a little dressing, a couple slices of rye...this is a truly wonderful treat. It's lean; it's
tender; it's delicious. AND Reuben sandwiches are only one of the great things that you can make with our corned bison. Use it the same way that you would use corned beef. The possibilities are endless. Of course, you have the added benefits of bison - the healthy alternative to beef. Each order includes 2 (1 lb) packages of Sliced Corned Bison.
Reuben never had it so good. 2 (1 lb) packages Corned Bison.
http://www.sayersbrook.com/corned-bison-2-lbs-32-oz/

PLEASE CALL US FOR ANY QUESTIONS
TOLL FREE 1-888-472-9377
EMAIL : INFO@SAYERSBROOK.COM
http://www.sayersbrook.com/

Turkey Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos

We have these from time to time and everyone loves it,Turkey Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos!  Using the Jennie - O Turkey Sausage, Fat Free Cream Cheese, and Kraft Light Ranch Dressing you're making it that much healthier without missing any of the flavor. Don't forget to Make the Switch! Enjoy and Healthy in 2017!


Turkey Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos

Ingredients
1 pound Jennie - O Ground Turkey Sausage
1 (8 ounce) package Fat Free Cream Cheese, softened
1 cup shredded Kraft Parmesan Cheese
1 pound large fresh Jalapeno Peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
1 (8 ounce) bottle Kraft Light Ranch Dressing (optional)

Directions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
1 - Place turkey sausage in a skillet over medium heat, and cook until evenly brown. Drain grease.
2 - In a bowl, mix the sausage, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Spoon about 1 tablespoon sausage mixture into each jalapeno half. Arrange stuffed halves in baking dishes.
3 - Bake 20 minutes in the preheated oven, until bubbly and lightly browned. Serve with Ranch dressing.

Kitchen Hint of the Day!

Before using a measuring cup for a sticky liquid like honey or syrup, coat the inside with oil or nonstick cooking spray. The liquid will pour out more easily and make clean up easier also.

Friday, December 30, 2016

Turkey Whole Wheat Taco Boats

Dinner Tonight: Turkey Whole Wheat Taco Boats






For Breakfast this morning I heated up a couple of Jimmy Dean Turkey Sausage Links, Poached an Egg, toasted 2 slices of Healthy Life Whole Grain Bread, and made a cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. Cold and windy day out there today. About 26 this morning and a high of 33 degrees. Had some Snow Flurries on and off also. Good day to stay in and get caught up on a few things around the house. For Dinner tonight its Turkey Whole Wheat Taco Boats.







It had been a while since I had the Old El Paso Taco Boats, and the first time I've had the Whole Wheat Boats. Love these things but I just don't have them that often. They are nice size and are perfect for stuffing them with ingredients. The Whole Wheat version is 130 calories and 19 net carbs per serving, 2 Boats per serving. And 2 of them is plenty for your meal!


To make these I'll need; For the Taco - 1 package Old El Paso Whole Wheat Taco Boats, 1 package
Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix - 25% Less Sodium, 1 tablespoon Extra Light Olive Oil, 1 lb Jennie - O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast, Ground Roasted Cumin and Dried Cilantro -  to taste, 2/3 cup Water. For the Toppings - 1 cup canned Old El Paso™ refried beans - heated, 1 cup Daisy Reduced Fat Sour Cream, 1 cup shredded Sargento 4 Cheese Mexican Reduced Fat Cheese, 1 small can Lindsay Sliced Black Olives, and 1 cup Shredded Lettuce. With these ingredients you know this is going to be delicious! The Ortega Smoky Chipotle Taco Sauce that I use has to be the best Taco Sauce I’ve ever had! Love this stuff. It has a fantastic taste to it with just the right amount of heat.




To start I prepared the Taco Boats. I preheated the oven on 325 degrees. Next I wrapped 2 of the Tortillas in foil and placed them on a small cookie sheet. Baked them for 7 minutes, until warmed through. Removed them from the oven, left the foil on them to keep them warm.












As the Tortillas were heating up in the oven I prepared the Jennie -O extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast. Love all the Jennie -O Turkey Products, always fresh and low calorie and low carb. I started by frying the Ground Turkey till it was no longer pink in Extra Light Olive Oil and seasoning it with Sea Salt, Ground Roasted Cumin, Cilantro Flakes. As the Turkey was finishing cooking I added 1 package of Old El Paso Low Sodium Taco Seasoning and 3/4 cup Water, continued to cook and stir for an additional 6 minutes. Jennie -O and Old El Paso together make one fine Taco!




And as the Turkey was cooking  and the Taco Boats baking, I heated up the can of Refried Beans. I used a small sauce pan that I sprayed with Pam Cooking Spray and added a 1/2 tablespoon of the Extra Light Olive Oil. I always add the Olive Oil to the Refried Beans,it gives a creamier texture and prevents it fro sticking in the sauce pan. Always be careful of over heating these besides extra cleaning of your pan it also effects the texture of the Beans. Took the pan off the burner when heated and set aside until needed.










With everything heated i assembled my Taco Boat. Unwrapped the heated Taco Boats, I first added
some Lettuce to the bottom of the Boat. The Lettuce down first helps to keep too much moisture from softening up the bottom of the Taco Boats. Next I added a layer of Turkey Taco Meat, then I sprinkled some of the sliced Black Olives, next a thin coat of the Refried Beans, more Lettuce, the Shredded Cheese, and finally the Chipotle Taco Sauce. And what a meal, Taco Night just got better! The Taco Boats held together great and the ingredients all worked together to make one delicious dish. Below I left a list of all the ingredients. For Dessert later a Jello Sugar Free Dark Chocolate Pudding topped with Cool Whip Free.








Turkey Whole Wheat Taco Boats
Ingredients
1 package Old El Paso Whole Wheat Taco Boats
1 package Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix - 25% Less Sodium
1 tablespoon Extra Light Olive Oil
1 lb Jennie - O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
Ground Roasted Cumin and Dried Cilantro, to taste
2/3 cup Water
Toppings
1 cup canned Old El Paso™ Refried Beans, heated
1 cup Daisy Reduced Fat Sour Cream
Ortega Smoky Chipotle Taco Sauce, to taste
1 cup shredded Sargento 4 Cheese Mexican Reduced Fat Cheese
1 small can Lindsay Sliced Black Olives
1 cup Shredded Lettuce






Old El Paso Whole Wheat Taco Boats

Traditional ground beef gets a flavor boost with fresh basil, serrano chiles and soy sauce, then is
stuffed in whole wheat boats topped with fresh veggies.

Ingredients
Whole Grain Wheat, Water, Glycerin, Interesterified Soybean Oil, Baking Powder (sodium aluminum phosphate, baking soda). Contains less than 2% of: Corn Syrup Solids, Vital Wheat Gluten, Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, Mono and Diglycerides, Salt, Potassium Sorbate and Calcium Propionate (preservatives), Fumaric Acid, DATEM, Enzymes. Contains Wheat Ingredients

https://www.oldelpaso.com/Products/shells-tortillas/whole-wheat-taco-boats.aspx

Jennie - O Recipe of the Week - Luau Turkey Tacos

This week's Jennie - O Recipe of the Week is Luau Turkey Tacos. Kicked up Tacos using JENNIE-O® Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast served in Lettuce or  Radicchio large leaves instead of Taco Shells. As always you can find this recipe at the Jennie - O website along with all the other delicious and healthy recipes, Enjoy and Make the Switch in 2017!  https://www.jennieo.com/


Luau Turkey Tacos

INGREDIENTS

1 (16-ounce) package JENNIE-O® Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast
½ cup finely diced red bell pepper
2 tablespoons chopped garlic
1½ tablespoons chopped ginger
1 teaspoon red chili flakes, if desired
⅓ cup rice wine vinegar
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup fat-free low-sodium chicken broth
¼ cup finely chopped green onion
¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
8 butter lettuce cups and/or 1 large head radicchio - 8 whole large leaves reserved for cups
2 cups finely cut spinach for “nest” in cups


DIRECTIONS

1) In large non-stick skillet, cook ground turkey as specified on package. Always cook to well-done, 165ºF as measured by a meat thermometer. Add bell pepper, garlic, ginger and chili flakes, if desired. Cook 30 seconds or until fragrant. Do not brown the garlic or the dish will taste bitter. Add vinegar and cook 2 minutes, or until most of the vinegar has evaporated. Add soy sauce and cook 2 minutes until it reduces to about 2 tablespoons liquid in pan. Add broth and cook 2 minutes or until liquid reduces to about ¼ cup.
2) Remove from heat. Stir in green onions and cilantro. Cover to keep warm.
3) Place two radicchio/lettuce cups on each plate and fill each half full with spinach and then top with ⅓ cup of the turkey mixture. Serve hot.
* Always cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.

RECIPE NUTRITION INFORMATION
PER SERVING
Calories170
Protein29g
Carbohydrates9g
Fiber1g
Sugars2g
Fat2g
Cholesterol55mg
Sodium490mg
Saturated Fat0.5g
https://www.jennieo.com/recipes/904-luau-turkey-tacos

Healthy Fish and Seafood Recipes

From the Diabetic Living Online website its Healthy Fish and Seafood Recipes. Delicious and Diabetic Friendly recipes that include; Fish and Chips-Style Cod, Scallop and Asparagus Alfredo, New England Clam Chowder, and more! Find them all at the Diabetic Living Online website (http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/) , which also has a very good magazine that you can subscribe to. I've been getting their magazine for about the past 6 years. So Enjoy and Eat Healthy in 2017!



Healthy Fish and Seafood Recipes

Add more fish and seafood to your diabetes meal plan with these tasty and easy-to-make recipes. Bonus: Many of these healthful fish dishes contain omega-3s, which may reduce risk of heart disease and stroke.





Coconut- and Sweet-Potato-Crusted Shrimp with Honey-Papaya Dipping Sauce

Escape to the Pacific Islands without leaving your kitchen. This tropical salad is not only healthy -- it improves digestive health with papaya and is full of heart-healthy antioxidants from the sweet potatoes -- but it's also incredibly tasty, with a sweet honey crunch in every bite.......



Fish and Chips-Style Cod

Enjoy every bite of this beer-battered fish without worrying about a carb overload. Each serving -- two pieces of fish -- has only 4 grams of carb.

TIP: Although it's tempting to eat this recipe alongside calorie-laden potato chips or packaged fries, opt for a side of oven-baked potato wedges. That way you can control the amount of salt and oil used. Even healthier: Serve with your favorite crunchy veggie or atop salad greens.......



Scallop and Asparagus Alfredo

Take Alfredo pasta to the next level with this decadent dish that features scallops and asparagus in a reduced-fat cream sauce. Packed with vitamins, protein, and healthy fats, this diabetic pasta recipe for two is sure to become a favorite.......




* Click the link below to see all the Healthy Fish and Seafood Recipes
http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/diabetic-recipes/fish/healthy-fish-seafood-recipes

Kitchen Hint of the Day!

When buying Lobster......

Live lobsters should be active and should curl their tails under when picked up. Frozen lobster should be completely frozen. Thaw them according to frozen fish instructions.

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Turkey Bacon and Muenster Cheese Buffalo Burger w/ Baked Fries

Dinner Tonight: Turkey Bacon and Muenster Cheese Buffalo Burger w/ Baked Fries





For Breakfast here in West Chester on my Birthday, I prepared some Simply Potatoes Shredded Hash Browns, heated up 2 Jimmy Dean Turkey Sausages, and my favorite morning beverage a cup of
Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. Turning 58 today and still Cancer Free! So while some days may be a bit rough from time to time, It's still a very good day! Lot of rain overnight and it finally ended early this morning. We started out at 41 degrees and it dropped throughout the day. These past few days of above normal temperatures has spoiled everyone. Mom took my Dad to a Doctor's appointment this morning and then stopped and had Breakfast. While they were out I cleaned the house. After that just kicked back and got caught up on some shows I recorded. For Dinner tonight I prepared a Turkey Bacon and Muenster Cheese Buffalo Burger w/ Baked Fries.





It's my weekly Buffalo Burger craving night! Tonight I'm having a Wild Idea Buffalo 1/3-Lb Buffalo Burger patty. And tonight's Burger is going to be a Turkey Bacon and Muenster Cheese Buffalo Burger. Along with the Buffalo Burger I'm using Jennie - O Turkey Bacon, Murray's Muenster Cheese, and Healthy Life Whole Grain Hamburger Bun.









I started by frying the Jennie - O Turkey Bacon. I need 2 slices so I fried 4 slices, Bacon math you know! It's a household rule when preparing Bacon always double the amount because you know when you fry Bacon you're going to eat half of it before its ever ready to use. Thus, Bacon Math comes into play! Next I preheated up a small skillet that I sprayed with Pam Cooking Spray, seasoned my Burger with McCormick Grinder Sea Salt and Black Peppercorn. I then pan fried it, in Extra Light Olive Oil, about 3 1/2 minutes per side, after flipping the Burger I added my slice of Cheese, I’m using Murray's Aged Muenster Cheese. i served the Burger on a Healthy Life Whole Grain Bun, topped the Burger with the Turkey Bacon I had made earlier and done! Love a good Burger and love these Wild Idea Buffalo Burgers, and topped with the Jennie – O Turkey Bacon and Muenster Cheese just adds to the goodness!





To go with my Burger I baked some Alexia Organic Yukon Select Fries leftover so I prepared them to go with my Burger.Seasoned them with McCormick Grinder Sea Salt and Black Peppercorn Medley. Baked them at 425 degrees for 16 minutes. They bake up beautifully and seasoned just right, excellent Shoestring Fry! Plus they are only 120 calories and 15 net carbs. I had a Diet Peach Snapple to drink. For Dessert later a 100 Calorie Breyer’s Chocolate Ice Cream Cup.











Wild Idea Buffalo 1/3-Lb Buffalo Burgers

Prepare for a whole new level of burger. Conveniently pre-made into one-third pound patties that are ever so grillable. Dinner ready. Each pack is 1 pound with 3 – 1/3 Lb patties.
http://buy.wildideabuffalo.com/collections/a-la-carte/products/3-1-3-lb-ready-made-buffalo-burgers-1-lb-pack











Alexia Organic Yukon Select Fries

Lightly seasoned with sea salt, these Julienne Fries make your everyday French fry wonder where it went wrong.

Ingredients: Organic Potatoes, Organic Canola Oil and/or Organic Sunflower Oil and/or Organic Safflower Oil, Sea Salt, Citric Acid.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 3 oz (84 g)
Per Serving % Daily Value*
Calories 120
Calories from Fat 36
Total Fat 4g 6%
Saturated Fat 0g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 3g
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 200mg 8%
Potassium 310mg 9%
Carbohydrates 18g 6%
Dietary Fiber 3g 12%
Sugars 0g
Protein 2g

https://www.alexiafoods.com/products/fries/yukon-gold-julienne-fries

It's Nuts I tell you......RECIPE FOR SNICKERDOODLES (GLUTEN-FREE)


This week from the nuts.com website (https://nuts.com/) its a recipe for SNICKERDOODLES (GLUTEN-FREE).  These are made with GLUTEN-FREE SWEET WHITE SORGHUM FLOUR
that can be purchased here on the Nuts site (https://nuts.com/). At the Nuts site not only can you find delicious and healthy recipes but can also find a great selection of GIFTS, NUTS, DRIED FRUIT, CHOCOLATES and SWEETS, SNACKS, COFFEE and TEA, COOKING and BAKING and more! Also you'll be able to choose from a good selection of Organic Items. Most items can be purchased in small amounts or in bulk. Also there's Everyday Free Shipping, see for details. So be sure to visit the Nuts site (https://nuts.com/) soon! Now for the RECIPE FOR SNICKERDOODLES (GLUTEN-FREE).





RECIPE FOR SNICKERDOODLES (GLUTEN-FREE)

Recipe Ingredients:
3/4 cup Vegetable Shortening
1 1/2 cups Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla
2 Eggs
2 cups Gluten-Free Sweet White Sorghum Flour
1/2 cup Tapioca Flour
1/4 cup Arrowroot Starch
2 tsp Cream of Tartar
1 tsp Baking Soda
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
  Topping
2 tbsp Sugar
1 tsp Cinnamon

Cooking Directions:
1. In a large mixing bowl cream together the shortening and sugar. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
2. In a separate bowl, combine sorghum flour, tapioca flour, arrowroot starch, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet and beat until well mixed.
3. Roll into balls about the size of a large walnut. Combine the last 2 ingredients in a small bowl (sugar & cinnamon). Roll cookie balls in the sugar and cinnamon mixture.
4. Place on greased cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes at 375F. Makes 24 cookies.
https://nuts.com/recipes/snickerdoodles--gluten-free-.html






GLUTEN-FREE SWEET WHITE SORGHUM FLOUR

Sorghum Flour, a millet-like grain, is America's third leading cereal crop. It is a powerhouse of nutrition and adds a superb flavor to gluten-free baking. Add 15% - 20% sorghum flour to your flour mixes to make delicious breads, cakes, and cookies.
https://nuts.com/cookingbaking/flours/sweet-white-sorghum-gluten-free.html







Order securely online or call us:
800-558-6887 or 908-523-0333
https://nuts.com/

Top Diabetic Chili Recipes

From the Diabetic Living Online website its Top Diabetic Chili Recipes. Delicious and Diabetic Friendly Chili Recipes including Recipes like Vegetarian Chili, Fix-and-Forget White Chili, and Turkey and Bean Chili. Find them all at the Diabetic Living Online website. Enjoy and eat Healthy in 2017!   http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/

Top Diabetic Chili Recipes

Chili is a delicious and healthful dish that's easy to make for a perfect weeknight meal or game-day crowd-pleaser. These diabetic recipes are loaded with veggies and fiber-filled beans for a nutritional bonus.



Vegetarian Chili

No-salt-added tomatoes and tomato sauce as well as salt-free seasoning blend keep the sodium down in this hearty, meatless bowl of chili......


Fix-and-Forget White Chili

Thicken this slow cooker chili to perfect spooning consistency by slightly mashing the beans.....


Turkey and Bean Chili

If you want to spice up this mild chili, add a can of green chile peppers or even a few smoked poblanos for more heat and smoky flavor......



* Click the link below to get all the Top Diabetic Chili Recipes
http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/diabetic-recipes/soup/top-chili-recipes

Kitchen Hint of the Day!

As the cookie crumbles.....

Always cool cookie sheets between batches to keep unbaked cookies from melting and thinning at the edges before they can be set by the heat of the oven.

Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Leftovers - Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta w/ Cheesy Bread

Dinner Tonight: Leftovers - Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta w/ Cheesy Bread




For Breakfast this morning it was Simply Potato Shredded Hash Browns, some Meijer Diced Ham,
toasted 1 slice of Healthy Life Whole Grain Bread, and that morning cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. Mixed together Hash Browns and Ham, made a good Hash! Grabbed a quick shower and then out the door. I went to Walmart, looking for some new weights and workout equipment. Ended up buying a new weight set. Sort of cool this morning, about 25 degrees, but it warmed up to about 47 degrees and sunny all afternoon. Sat outside for a bit, enjoying that sunshine! Not much else going on today. For Dinner tonight I reheated the leftover Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta. I left the original post below with ingredients and cooking instructions, enjoy!




Oh I love this Pizza Pasta! This is one of my favorite boxed foods, Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta. Nothing like a quick, easy and delicious comfort food. But here’s another product I love and it’s getting harder and harder to find, I can only find it at Walmart or online now!









Anyway it’s got two of my favorites in it, pasta and pizza! The box contains 1 can of Pizza Sauce w/
Pepperoni and Sausage and 1 Pouch of Rotini Pasta. I also added a few slices of Turkey Pepperoni and sliced Portabello Mushrooms to the mix. For the preparation you can bake it or prepare it on the stove top, which is how I prepared it. Add 1 cup of water, stir and mix, and simmer and you have your dinner! This came out fantastic! Really had a good Pizza flavor to it. The Sauce with the Mushrooms, Sausage, and Pepperoni provides the great flavoring. Easily prepared and makes a hearty and delicious meal.







Along with the Pizza Pasta I also prepared some Baked Cheesy Bread. Another easy one, using
Healthy Life Whole Grain Bread, Sargento Reduced Fat Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, and I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter. Just Butter the Bread and add your Cheese on top. Then bake on 400 degrees until the Bread is toasted and Cheese is melted.









Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta

When only comfort food will do, Banquet Homestyle Bakes are the perfect choice. Each comes
complete with everything you need to make a delicious and hearty straight-from-the-oven meal. So you’ll spend less time worrying about your meal—and more time enjoying it.

*Pepperoni and sausage included
*5 minute preparation oven or stove top banquet-homestyle-pizza-pastaBanquet Homestyle Pizza Pasta

Stove Top:

1. Stir Together Can of Sauce and 1 Cup Hot Water In Medium Skillet.
2. Stir In Pasta Until Well Coated. Heat to Boiling.
3. Reduce Heat. Cover and Simmer About 15 Minutes, Or Until Pasta Is Tender, Stirring Occasionally.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 1 cup prepared (195g)
Servings Per Container 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories 280Calories from Fat 50
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 6g 9%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 10mg 3%
Sodium 820mg 34%
Potassium 530mg 15%
Total Carbohydrate 46g 15%
Dietary Fiber 4g 16%
Sugars 12g
Protein 10g
http://www.banquet.com/homestyle-bakes/pizza-pasta-bake

Wild Idea Buffalo Recipe of the Week – Texas Style Chili “Red”

The cold Winter weather and a good hot bowl of Chili go hand in hand! Which leads to this week’s Wild Idea Buffalo Recipe of the Week – Texas Style Chili “Red”. It uses Wild Idea’s Buffalo Chuck Roast. Another delicious recipe from Jill O’Brien of Wild Idea Buffalo. http://wildideabuffalo.com/



Texas Style Chili “Red”Texas Style Chili “Red”
In addition to the instructions below, I would gather and prep all of the ingredients before starting the process, as I found I needed to stir frequently. I was saved by my friend Kris, acting sous chef and really good stirrer, thanks Kris. I also used a combination of mild chilies and medium hot chilies, as one of the comments I received from fellow grocery shoppers is you can get it too hot. I adjusted the heat to my liking with cayenne pepper. The preparation was easy and the outcome delicious.


Ingredients:
1 – 3 lb. Wild Idea Buffalo Chuck Roast, rinsed, patted dry and cut into 1/4” pieces
4 – tablespoons olive oil
4 – tablespoons butter
1/3 – cup masa/corn flour
2 – tablespoons Mexican oregano
2 – tablespoons cumin
2 – tablespoons Mexican chili powder
1 – tablespoon salt
1 – teaspoon black pepper
3 – Texas sweet onions, about 7 cups
6 – garlic cloves, diced, about 3 tablespoons
2 – cups organic beef broth
2 – cups water
4 – dried Ancho chilies, stems removed, seeded and coarse chopped
6 – dried medium red chilies, stems removed, seeded and coarse chopped
1 – fresh Serrano chili, stem removed, seeded and finely chopped
1 – tablespoon brown sugar
¼ – cup fresh squeezed lime juice
*optional ½ – teaspoon cayenne pepper


Preparation:
1) Prep ingredients. Spread meat out onto a large baking sheet and sprinkle with the corn flour.
2) In a large cast iron or heavy pot, over medium high heat, heat pan and add 2 tablespoons each of the butter and olive oil.
3) Add half of the floured meat to the pan and allow to brown, stirring occasionally, scraping the bottom up to keep browning even. Remove browned meat from pan with a spoon and place on a plate. Repeat this step with the remaining butter, olive oil and meat.
4) Add the first browned meat back to the pot, along with the seasonings, stirring to incorporate.
5) Add chopped onions and garlic, again stirring occasionally, scraping up the bottom. Allow the onions and garlic to cook for about 7 minutes.
6) Add the broth and water to the pot, stirring again as above.
7) Reduce heat to simmer and cover the pot.
8) Place all of the diced chilies in a food processor (small ones work best) and chop. After peppers are a bit more chopped, add ½ cup of the pot liquids to the processor and blend again, creating more of a paste.
9) Add the pepper paste to the pot, stir to incorporate and cover. Allow the chili to simmer for a couple of hours, stirring as above occasionally.
10) When the meat is tender, add the brown sugar and lime juice. Stir to incorporate, and allow to simmer a few more minutes.
11) Taste, and adjust seasoning to your taste, adding the cayenne if more heat is needed.

For a complete meal, serve with grilled cheesy quesadillas with fresh relish and Texas style mustard and collard greens.
http://wildideabuffalo.com/2015/texas-style-chili-red/

Black Bean Pork Chili

Forgot I had this Chili recipe, Black Bean Pork Chili. Enjoy!


Black Bean Pork Chili

Recipe Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground pork
1 medium red or green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teasponn ground cinnamon
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup water
2 teaspoons dried oregano, crushed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon lime juice
Shredded cheddar cheese
Nonstick cooking spray
Flour tortillas, warmed for accompaniment (optional)

Cooking Directions:

1 - Coat heavy, large covered pot with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat. Add pork, bell pepper, onion, garlic and cumin. Cook and stir until pork is brown and vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. Drain off fat.
2 - Stir black beans, undrained tomatoes, water, oregano and salt into mixture in pot. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
3 - Uncover; simmer about 15 minutes more or until desired consistency.
4 - Stir in lime juice. Ladle into soup bowls. Sprinkle each serving with cheddar cheese. Serve with tortillas, if desired.
Makes 4 servings.

Kitchen Hint of the Day!

Thank you to Cindy M. for passing this Hint along......


Use chicken stock instead of butter or milk when whipping up mashed potatoes. By using the chicken stock it gives the potatoes a fantastic flavor and less fat!

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

Fried Shrimp with Rotini and Cheese

Dinner Tonight: Fried Shrimp with Rotini and Cheese




For Breakfast I Scrambled 2 medium size Eggs, Prepared some Simply Potatoes Shredded Hashbrowns, and toasted 2 slices of Healthy Life Whole Grain Bread (lightly buttered with I Can’t
Believe It’s Not Butter). Also had the morning cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. We had a lot rain, and even thunder, overnight. It broke a record high temperature yesterday, 70 degrees! And today wasn't bad, mostly sunny and 43 degrees. Drove over to a friend of mine house. He had a heart bypass and is finally back home. Says he feels better now than he's felt in the last 2 years. He looked and sounded great! On the way back home stopped the ATM and then got gas before heading back home. For Dinner tonight I prepared Fried Shrimp with Rotini and Cheese.




While at Kroger yesterday I purchased some more of the huge Freshwater Shrimp.I rinsed them off in cold water and removed the shells, they were already deveined, and put them in a Hefty Zip Bag in the fridge. To prepare these I’m using Zatarain’s Shrimp Fri – Seasoned Seafood Breading Mix.









Poured about 1 inch of olive oil into large skillet. Heat oil to 350°F on medium heat. Take the peeled shrimp, mix 1/2 6cup Zatarain’s Seasoned Shrimp Fri with 1/2 cup water in medium bowl. Pour additional 1/2 cup Shrimp Fri onto plate or into plastic bag. Dip shrimp in the batter. Shake off excess. Roll or shake shrimp in remaining 1/2 cup Shrimp Fri until evenly coated. Discard any remaining batter in bowl or Shrimp Fri on plate or in plastic bag. Fry the shrimp, a few pieces at a time, in hot oil until light golden brown. Drain on paper towels and served. The Zatarain’s Shrimp Fri is an excellent breading for Shrimp! Nice light coating with great flavor.




To go with the Shrimp I prepared a box of Kraft – Velveeta Rotini and Cheese, Whole Grain. I don’t use a lot of Mac and Cheese due to the calories and carbs but the Velveeta Whole Grain Rotini and Cheese isn’t too bad, plus every now and then doesn’t hurt. To prepare it; Boil  6 cups water. Stir in shell pasta. Cook 8-10 min., Stirring occasionally. Drain pasta, don’t rinse. Return it to pan. Add cheese sauce; stir. And you have some creamy and cheesy Mac and Cheese! It’s just a flat out Pasta and Cheese Comfort Food Heaven! Excellent tasting Rotini Pasta and with the Cheese, perfect. Shrimp and Pasta is a perfect pairing! For Dessert later a Weight Watcher's Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Bar.





ZATARAIN’S® Seasoned Shrimp Fri®

Zatarain’s Seasoned Shrimp Fri combines a unique blend of ingredients for crispy, golden and easy-to-make shrimp every time. The delicious, golden coating is perfect for shrimp and even fried vegetables – with real lemon added.

Usage tips

DEEP FRYING DIRECTIONS
1. FILL deep fryer no more than 1/3 full with oil. Heat oil to 350°F on medium heat.
2. FOR 1 lb. peeled shrimp, mix 1/2 cup Zatarain’s Seasoned Shrimp Fri with 1/2 cup water in medium bowl. Pour additional 1/2 cup Shrimp Fri onto plate or into plastic bag.
3. DIP shrimp in batter. Shake off excess. Roll or shake shrimp in remaining 1/2 cup Shrimp Fri until evenly coated. Discard any remaining batter in bowl or Shrimp Fri on plate or in plastic bag.
4. FRY shrimp, a few pieces at a time, in hot oil until light golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

PAN FRYING DIRECTIONS
1. POUR 1 inch of vegetable oil into large skillet. Heat oil to 350°F on medium heat.
2. COAT and fry shrimp as directed above.

Note: For thicker coating, dip shrimp in 1/2 cup milk mixed with 1 lightly beaten egg. Shake off excess. Roll or shake shrimp in Shrimp Fri. Repeat.

Product nutrition information
(Amount per serving)
Calories: 70
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 820mg
Sugar: 0g
Fat: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
http://www.mccormick.com/zatarains/products/breadings-and-frying-mixes/breading-mixes/seasoned-shrimp-fri

Diabetic Dish of the Week - Sweet Potato Casserole

This week's Diabetic Dish of the Week is - Sweet Potato Casserole. This one has various versions and on many web sites and blogs. I went with the one on CooksRecipes website. The Cooks site is loaded with recipes that will suit any taste or cuisine. Enjoy and Eat Healthy in 2017!   http://www.cooksrecipes.com/index.html

Sweet Potato Casserole

Recipe Ingredients:

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled, cooked (about 1 3/4 pounds)
1/2 to 1 cup fat-free sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 1/2 teaspoons Equal® for Recipes or 18 packets Equal® sweetener or 3/4 cup Equal® Spoonful™
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 cup coarsely chopped pecans (optional)

Cooking Directions:

Mash sweet potatoes with potato masher or beat with electric mixer until smooth. Mix in remaining ingredients, except pecans. Spoon sweet potato mixture into ungreased 1-quart casserole or soufflé dish; sprinkle with pecans.
Bake, uncovered, at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout, about 30 minutes.
Makes 6 servings (about 1/2 cup each).

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/6 of recipe): 165 cal., 4 g pro., 38 g carbo., 0 g fat, 0 mg chol., 27 mg sodium.
http://www.cooksrecipes.com/diabetic/sweet-potato-casserole-diabetic-recipe.html

Favorite Diabetic Brunch Recipes

From the Diabetic Living Online website its Favorite Diabetic Brunch Recipes. Too late for Breakfast and too early for Lunch, its Brunch! Delicious and healthy Brunch Recipes including recipes like; Italian Sausage and Zucchini Quiche, Pear-Hazelnut Coffee Cake, and Herbed Turkey Strata. You can find them all from one of my favorite recipe sites, Diabetic Living Online. Enjoy and Eat Healthyin 2017!    http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/

Favorite Diabetic Brunch Recipes

Try our delicious diabetic brunch recipes to plan a scrumptious menu that includes easy egg casseroles, sweet and flaky biscuits, impressive quiches, fun drinks, and fresh and fruity desserts. Your taste buds won't believe this brunch lineup is made up of diabetic recipes!



Italian Sausage and Zucchini Quiche

You’d never know this gorgeous cheesy quiche has only 6 grams of carb per serving. Turkey sausage, zucchini, and mozzarella cheese bring big Italian flavor to the all-in-one dish.....


Pear-Hazelnut Coffee Cake

Brunch guests will swoon over this stunning coffee cake. Crowned with sliced pears and crunchy hazelnuts, the decadent breakfast has a surprising 207 calories and 32 grams of carb per serving.....


Herbed Turkey Strata

Sage, rosemary, and thyme form a triple-threat of flavor in this simple breakfast bake. To round out the low-carb meal, we added turkey and sautéed veggies.......



* Click the link below to get all the - Favorite Diabetic Brunch Recipes
http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/diabetic-recipes/breakfast/favorite-diabetic-brunch-recipes

Kitchen Hint of the Day!

Hot Chocolate lovers.......

Place fresh or dried mint in the bottom of a cup of hot chocolate for a cool, refreshing taste.

Monday, December 26, 2016

Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta w/ Cheesy Bread

Dinner Tonight: Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta w/ Cheesy Bread







For Breakfast this morning I fried up a couple of Jennie – O Turkey Breakfast Sausage Links, scrambled a couple of Eggs, toasted a couple of slices of Healthy Life Whole Grain Bread, and had a
cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. After Breakfast I headed to the local Kroger up the road. Then on my way back I stopped by the ATM and stopped by McDonald's and picked up Breakfast for Mom and Dad. I wanted to go to Meijer but I figured Meijer would be packed early being the day after Christmas. But amazingly there was no traffic or people out so I went back out to Meijer. It was strange there was little to no traffic on I - 75 and at Meijer there was very few people. I was talking to the cashier at Meijer and said they had scheduled extra people, expecting a crowd. Odd, but I was happy it was slow I was able to get everything done. I purchased another of the small Prime Rib Roasts and e put that one in the freezer. For Dinner tonight I prepared a box of the Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta.







Oh I love this Pizza Pasta! This is one of my favorite boxed foods, Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta. Nothing like a quick, easy and delicious comfort food. But here’s another product I love and it’s getting harder and harder to find, I can only find it at Walmart or online now! I found this box at Walmart the other day.







Anyway it’s got two of my favorites in it, pasta and pizza! The box contains 1 can of Pizza Sauce w/
Pepperoni and Sausage and 1 Pouch of Rotini Pasta. I also added a few slices of Turkey Pepperoni and sliced Portabello Mushrooms to the mix. For the preparation you can bake it or prepare it on the stove top, which is how I prepared it. Add 1 cup of water, stir and mix, and simmer and you have your dinner! This came out fantastic! Really had a good Pizza flavor to it. The Sauce with the Mushrooms, Sausage, and Pepperoni provides the great flavoring. Easily prepared and makes a hearty and delicious meal.





Along with the Pizza Pasta I also prepared some Baked Cheesy Bread. Another easy one, using
Healthy Life Whole Grain Bread, Sargento Reduced Fat Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, and I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter. Just Butter the Bread and add your Cheese on top. Then bake on 400 degrees until the Bread is toasted and Cheese is melted. For Dessert later a bowl of Dole Sliced Peaches.







Banquet Homestyle Bakes Pizza Pasta

When only comfort food will do, Banquet Homestyle Bakes are the perfect choice. Each comes complete with everything you need to make a delicious and hearty straight-from-the-oven meal. So you’ll spend less time worrying about your meal—and more time enjoying it.

*Pepperoni and sausage included
*5 minute preparation oven or stove top banquet-homestyle-pizza-pastaBanquet Homestyle Pizza Pasta

Stove Top:

1. Stir Together Can of Sauce and 1 Cup Hot Water In Medium Skillet.
2. Stir In Pasta Until Well Coated. Heat to Boiling.
3. Reduce Heat. Cover and Simmer About 15 Minutes, Or Until Pasta Is Tender, Stirring Occasionally.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 1 cup prepared (195g)
Servings Per Container 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories 280Calories from Fat 50
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 6g 9%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 10mg 3%
Sodium 820mg 34%
Potassium 530mg 15%
Total Carbohydrate 46g 15%
Dietary Fiber 4g 16%
Sugars 12g
Protein 10g
http://www.banquet.com/homestyle-bakes/pizza-pasta-bake

One of America's Favorites - Cheesesteak

A cheesesteak sandwich

A cheesesteak, also known as a Philadelphia cheesesteak, Philly cheesesteak, cheesesteak sandwich, cheese steak, or steak and cheese, is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. A popular regional fast food, it has its roots in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.






The cheesesteak was developed in the early 20th century "by combining frizzled beef, onions, and cheese in a small loaf of bread", according to a 1987 exhibition catalog published by the Library Company of Philadelphia and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.

Philadelphians Pat and Harry Olivieri are often credited with inventing the sandwich by serving chopped steak on an Italian roll in the early 1930s. The exact story behind its creation is debated, but in some accounts, Pat and Harry Olivieri originally owned a hot dog stand, and on one occasion, decided to make a new sandwich using chopped beef and grilled onions. While Pat was eating the sandwich, a cab driver stopped by and was interested in it, so he requested one for himself. After eating it, the cab driver suggested that Olivieri quit making hot dogs and instead focus on the new sandwich. They began selling this variation of steak sandwiches at their hot dog stand near South Philadelphia's Italian Market. They became so popular that Pat opened up his own restaurant which still operates today as Pat's King of Steaks. The sandwich was originally prepared without cheese; Olivieri said provolone cheese was first added by Joe "Cocky Joe" Lorenza, a manager at the Ridge Avenue location."

Cheesesteaks have become popular at restaurants and food carts throughout the city with many locations being independently owned, family-run businesses. Variations of cheesesteaks are now common in several fast food chains. Versions of the sandwich can also be found at high-end restaurants. Many establishments outside of Philadelphia refer to the sandwich as a "Philly cheesesteak."



Description
Meat
The meat traditionally used is thinly sliced rib-eye or top round, although other cuts of beef are also used. On a lightly oiled griddle at medium temperature, the steak slices are quickly browned and then scrambled into smaller pieces with a flat spatula. Slices of cheese are then placed over the meat, letting it melt, and then the roll is placed on top of the cheese. The mixture is then scooped up with a spatula and pressed into the roll, which is then cut in half.

Common additions include sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, mayonnaise, hot sauce, salt, pepper.

Bread
In Philadelphia, most cheesesteak places use Amoroso or Vilotti-Pisanelli rolls; these rolls are long, soft, and slightly salted. One source writes that "a proper cheesesteak consists of provolone or Cheez Whiz slathered on an Amoroso roll and stuffed with thinly shaved grilled meat," while a reader's letter to an Indianapolis magazine, lamenting the unavailability of good cheesesteaks, wrote that "the mention of the Amoroso roll brought tears to my eyes." After commenting on the debates over types of cheese and "chopped steak or sliced," Risk and Insurance magazine declared "The only thing nearly everybody can agree on is that it all has to be piled onto a fresh, locally baked Amoroso roll."

Cheese
American cheese, Cheez Whiz, and provolone are the most commonly used cheeses or cheese products put on to the Philly cheesesteak.

White American cheese along with provolone cheese are the favorites due to the mild flavor and medium consistency of American cheese. Some establishments melt the American cheese to achieve the creamy consistency, while others place slices over the meat, letting them melt slightly under the heat. Philadelphia Inquirer restaurant critic Craig LaBan says "Provolone is for aficionados, extra-sharp for the most discriminating among them." Geno's owner, Joey Vento, said, "We always recommend the provolone. That's the real cheese."

Cheez Whiz, first marketed in 1952, was not yet available for the original 1930 version, but has spread in popularity. A 1986 New York Times article called Cheez Whiz "the sine qua non of cheesesteak connoisseurs." In a 1985 interview, Pat Olivieri's nephew Frank Olivieri said that he uses "the processed cheese spread familiar to millions of parents who prize speed and ease in fixing the children's lunch for the same reason, because it is fast." Cheez Whiz is "overwhelmingly the favorite" at Pat's, outselling runner-up American by a ratio of eight or ten to one, while Geno's claims to go through eight to ten cases of Cheez Whiz a day.



A cheesesteak with lots of cheese sauce

Variations
* A chicken cheesesteak is made with chicken instead of beef, sometimes referred to as a chicken Philly
* A pizza steak is a cheesesteak topped with pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese and may be toasted in a broiler
* A cheesesteak hoagie contains lettuce and tomato in addition to the ingredients found in the traditional steak sandwich, and may contain other elements often served in a hoagie.
* A vegan cheesesteak is a sandwich that replaces steak and cheese with vegan ingredients, such as seitan or mushrooms for the steak, and soy-based cheese.