Sunday’s Chicken Dinner Recipe – Garden Chicken

This week’s Sunday’s Chicken Dinner Recipe is – Garden Chicken. Made using Chicken Breasts, Diced Tomatoes, White Wine, Italian Tomato Paste, Asparagus, and Seasoning. A Dish sure to Make the Perfect Sunday Dinner! You can find this recipe at the CooksRecipes website which has huge selection of recipes to please everyone! Check it out today! Enjoy and Make 2019 a Healthy One!  https://www.cooksrecipes.com/index.html

Garden Chicken
Chicken breasts are quick-braised in an Italian-seasoned tomato and white wine sauce with fresh asparagus.

Recipe Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 3/4 cups (14.5-ounce can) recipe-ready diced tomatoes, undrained (1 3/4 cups)
1 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
1 (6-ounce) can Italian tomato paste (2/3 cup)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley, crushed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 pound fresh asparagus, stemmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

Cooking Directions:
1 - Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until browned. Push chicken to side of skillet.
2 - Add tomatoes with juice, broth, tomato paste, parsley, and salt to skillet; stir. Add asparagus; spoon sauce over chicken and asparagus. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cover. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink in center.

Makes 6 servings.

https://www.cooksrecipes.com/chicken/garden_chicken_recipe.html

Diabetic Dish of the Week - FRESH ASPARAGUS TOPPED WITH SUNNY-SIDE UP EGGS

This week's Diabetic Dish of the Week is - FRESH ASPARAGUS TOPPED WITH SUNNY-SIDE UP EGGS. A perfect way to start your day with Breakfast or Brunch, FRESH ASPARAGUS TOPPED WITH SUNNY-SIDE UP EGGS. It's only 135 calories and 2 carbs per serving! The recipe is off one of my favorite go to recipe sites, the Diabetic Gourmet Magazine website. At the Diabetic Gourmet site you'll find a huge selection of Diabetic Friendly Recipes so be sure to check it out today! Enjoy and Make 2019 a Healthy One!  https://diabeticgourmet.com/

FRESH ASPARAGUS TOPPED WITH SUNNY-SIDE UP EGGS

Ingredients

1 bunch asparagus, woody ends trimmed
Cooking spray
2 Eggland's Best large eggs
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
1 teaspoon Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 teaspoon breadcrumbs (optional)
1/4 cup chopped red peppers (optional)

Directions

1 - Fill medium saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Submerge asparagus and cook for approximately 2 minutes, maintaining a bright green color and slight crunch. Immediately remove asparagus and shock it in a bowl of ice water. Reserve.
2 - Coat medium size skillet with cooking spray. Crack two Eggland's Best eggs into pan and cook over medium heat until the whites set and the edges of the eggs are cooked.
3 - Place asparagus on plate, making an even layer. Remove eggs from the pan using a slotted spatula and place on top of asparagus. Top with a drizzle of olive oil and garnish with Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs or red peppers, if desired. Can also be served on two pieces of whole wheat toast.

Recipe Yield: Yield: 2 servings

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

Calories: 135
Fat: 11 grams
Saturated Fat: 5 grams
Fiber: 1 grams
Sodium: 86 milligrams
Cholesterol: 176 milligrams
Protein: 7 grams
Carbohydrates: 2 grams
https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/fresh-asparagus-topped-with-sunny-side-up-eggs

Diabetic Dish of the Week - Springtime Panzanella

This week's Diabetic Dish of the Week is a Springtime Panzanella. Get a healthy and delicious taste of Spring with this week's recipe. Asparagus, Carrots, Red Onion, and Parmesan Cheese are just some of the ingredients you'll need to make this recipe. It's from one of my favorite sites and Magazines, the Diabetes Self Management. At the Diabetes Self Management site you'll find a huge selection of Diabetic Friendly Recipes, Diabetes News, Diabetes Management Tips, and more so check it out today! Enjoy and Make 2019 a Healthy One!  https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/

Springtime Panzanella

Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

2 cloves garlic, minced and divided
3 slices whole wheat bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1 pound asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup chopped carrot
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon deli-style mustard
2 tablespoon shredded Parmesan cheese
Directions
1 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Spray baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray.

2 - Combine 1 tablespoon oil and 1 clove garlic in large bowl; mix well. Add bread cubes; toss to coat evenly. Spread in single layer on baking sheet.

3 - Combine 1 tablespoon oil, remaining 1 clove garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in same bowl. Add asparagus and carrot; toss to coat evenly. Spread on separate baking sheet.

4 - Bake bread cubes and vegetables 15 minutes, stirring once. Let stand 5 to 10 minutes to cool slightly.

5 - Meanwhile, combine onion, vinegar, remaining 1 tablespoon oil, lemon juice, mustard, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt in small bowl; mix well. Add bread cubes and vegetables; gently toss to coat evenly. Top with cheese just before serving.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving:

Calories: 173 calories, Carbohydrates: 13 g, Protein: 5 g, Fat: 12 g, Saturated Fat: 2 g, Cholesterol: 2 mg, Sodium: 722 mg, Fiber: 3 g
https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/recipes/salads/springtime-panzanella/

Sunday’s Chicken Dinner Recipe – Asparagus and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts for Diabetics

This week’s Sunday’s Chicken Dinner Recipe – Asparagus and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts for Diabetics. Chicken Breasts, Asparagus, and Cheddar Cheese make up this week's recipe. It's from the Diabetes Self Management website which has a fantastic selection of Diabetic Friendly Recipes along with Diabetes Management Tips. Check it out today. Enjoy and Make 2019 a Healthy One!  https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/

Asparagus and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts for Diabetics

Ingredients
20 asparagus spears (about 2 bunches)

2 cups fat-free reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 teaspoon roasted crushed garlic
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1/4 pound each)
4 tablespoons shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons corn relish (optional)

Directions
1 - Snap woody stem ends off asparagus and discard. Cut off asparagus tips about 4 inches long; set aside. Slice asparagus stalks and combine with broth, red pepper, garlic, parsley, and black pepper in saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2 - While vegetables cook, place each chicken breast half between plastic wrap, and pound with rolling pin until approximately 1/4 inch thick.

3 - Preheat electric indoor grill with lid. Lay 5 asparagus tips across one end of each pounded breast. Top each with 1 tablespoon cheese and fold in half. Place stuffed breasts on grill and cook with lid closed for 6 minutes.

4 - Spoon vegetable sauce onto serving plates and top with cooked breast. Garnish with corn relish, if desired.

* Gelatin Salad: If desired, serve with Gelatin Salad. Mix together 4 cups ready-to-use shredded cabbage, 1 cup mandarin orange segments, and 1/2 cup fat-free vinaigrette in medium bowl. Divide mixture evenly among 4 salad plates. Remove orange gelatin from 4 ready-to-use, sugar-free gelatin dessert cups and slice gelatin with egg slicer or knife. Top each salad with gelatin slices. Garnish each serving with 1/2 tablespoon dried cranberries. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Yield: 4 servings.

Serving size: 1 stuffed chicken breast.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving:

Calories: 189 calories, Carbohydrates: 5 g, Protein: 33 g, Fat: 4 g, Saturated Fat: 2 g, Cholesterol: 83 mg, Sodium: 317 mg, Fiber: 2 g

https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/recipes/main-dishes/asparagus-cheddar-stuffed-chicken-breasts/

Bread Crumb Crusted Fried Atlantic Winter Skate w/ Roasted Asparagus and Sliced Potatoes

Dinner Tonight: Bread Crumb Crusted Fried Atlantic Winter Skate w/ Roasted Asparagus and Sliced Potatoes





To start this Saturday morning off I toasted a couple of slices of Aunt Millie's Light Whole Grain Bread, fried up 4 slices of Boar's Head Sweet Slice Ham, Fried an Egg, and made a Breakfast Sandwich. I topped the Ham and Egg with a slice of Sargento Ultra Thin Swiss Cheese. I also had a cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. Cloudy and 34 degrees with passing snow flurries. After Breakfast I went to McDonald's to pick up Breakfast for Mom. Back home it was laundry day, did a couple of loads. Then cleaned the house. For Dinner tonight I prepared a Bread Crumb Crusted Fried Atlantic Winter Skate w/ Roasted Asparagus and Sliced Potatoes.



I have been wanting to try Skate since I read about it a while back. It's tough to find but I found some on the Sea to Table website (https://www.sea2table.com/). I've left some info on the Sea to Table
website at the end of the post. So glad I came across this site they have a good selection of Seafood; Atlantic Sea Scallops, West Coast Dover Sole, Northwest Pacific Cod, and Atlantic Winter Skate. I ordered the West Coast Dover Sole and the Atlantic Winter Skate, and can not wait to try them both! I'm having the Skate for Dinner tonight. All products come frozen and delivered in excellent packaging. There is 2 Fillets per package, I'm having one for Dinner and froze the other one.


To make the Dish I'll need; 1/4 cup of 2% Milk, McCormick Grinder Sea Salt and Grinder
Peppercorn Medley, Progresso Italian Style Bread Crumbs for dredging, and 1 1/2 tablespoons of Extra Light Olive Oil. To prepare them I put the skate fillets in a large dish. Poured the milk over them and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure to turn the fillets in the milk so they are coated on both sides. Then I scattered the Bread Crumbs over a large dish. Lightly dredge the fillets in the Bread Crumbs on both sides.




With fillets breaded I heated the Olive Oil a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot but not smoking, I added one of the fillets. Saute on one side until it was golden brown, about 3 minutes. Then turn and cook on the other side until golden brown, about 3 minutes more.
They came out beautiful! And I have a found a new Seafood to have! These are so good. They fried up very easy and have a very fresh taste, their taste is similar to scallops. I'll definitely be having this again!




For one side dish I prepared some Roasted Asparagus.To prepare the Asparagus I just needed Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sea Salt, grated Black Peppercorn, Lemon Juice, and grated Parmesan Cheese.

Rinse clean the asparagus. Break the tough ends off of the asparagus and discard. Lay the asparagus spears out in a single layer in a baking dish or a foil-covered roasting pan. Drizzle olive oil over the spears, roll the asparagus back and forth until they are all covered with a thin layer of olive oil. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub over the asparagus so that they are evenly seasoned. Place pan in oven and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, depending on how thick your asparagus spears are, until tender when pierced with a fork. Drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice and Grated Reduced Fat Parm Cheese before serving. 


For a 2nd side I heated up a can of Del Monte Sliced New Potatoes. I use a lot of Del Monte
Vegetable Products, always delicious and store a lot longer than fresh Vegetables. To prepare them I emptied the can into a small sauce pan. Heated it on medium heat until heated through. Excellent Meal tonight! For Dessert/Snack later a bowl of Skinny Pop - Pop Corn along with a Dieat Peach Snapple to drink.







Sea to Table
https://www.sea2table.com/

Our seafood is wild-caught by American fishermen in US waters, where science-based management is in place to keep our fisheries sustainable and our oceans healthy. We deliver the best of the catch right to your door - cleaned, perfectly portioned, flash frozen, and ready to cook.

Our Mission
Every day, port towns from Maine down to the Gulf Coast and back up to Alaska welcome the wild catch of American fishermen. As US fisheries are closely monitored and managed by a strict science-based system, we can rest easy knowing that their fish is responsibly-caught from healthy oceans. Our goal is to make this delicious seafood available to everyone.

 * The Sea to Table Standard
* Wild Caught in US Waters
* Never Processed Overseas
* Pristine Quality Offerings
*No Antibiotics or Hormones
https://www.sea2table.com/our-mission/

 Atlantic Winter Skate
Hand filleted, boneless, flash frozen

Why We Love It: Loved by chefs and New England fishermen alike, Skate wings are sweet like scallops, delicate but firm like lobster, and often compared to flounder and sole. These skin-off fillets are hand trimmed and fan-shaped, so they make for a uniquely beautiful and delicious plate.
Cooking Tip: For a classic French-inspired meal, pan sauté in a butter and caper sauce, sprinkle with parsley and serve with asparagus and roasted potatoes. Get the recipe.

Where It’s From: This Winter Skate is caught off the shores of Chatham, Massachusetts — a fishing town at the elbow of Cape Cod. With an ever-growing stock level, Winter Skate is rated as a Good Alternative by Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch.

Our Guarantee: We care about the fish you eat and work closely with our fishermen partners to provide you with the very best. If you are not 100% satisfied, we will replace or refund any item within 30 days.


West Coast Dover Sole
Hand filleted, boneless, flash frozen

Why We Love It: Similar to other flatfish such as fluke, Dover Sole has a sweet flavor with a flaky and delicate texture – perfect for a simple yet eye-catching plate. Unlike the European Dover Sole, West Coast Dover Sole is a member of the flounder family.

Cooking Tip: For a classic French-inspired meal, pan sauté in a butter and caper sauce, sprinkle with parsley and serve with asparagus and roasted potatoes. Get the recipe.
Where It’s From: Dover Sole, rated as a Best Choice by Seafood Watch, is from Astoria, Oregon, a small fishing town of about 10,000 people located at the mouth of the Columbia River just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean.

Our Guarantee: We care about the fish you eat and work closely with our supply partners to provide you with the very best. If you are not 100% satisfied, we will replace or refund any item within 30 days.
https://www.sea2table.com/shop/

Chopped Bison Sirloin w/ Au Gratin Potato Casserole and Roasted Asparagus

Dinner Tonight: Chopped Bison Sirloin w/ Au Gratin Potato Casserole and Roasted Asparagus





For Breakfast I just had a cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. Another cold morning out there, 18 degrees. The afternoon was sunny and 31 degrees. Went to Meijer after Breakfast, needed quite a few items. On the way back I picked up Breakfast for Mom at McDonald’s. Back home I rested most of the afternoon. I've had a bad sinus headache all morning. The last 2 days my sinuses have been running wild! Anyway for Dinner tonight I prepared a Chopped Bison Sirloin w/ Au Gratin Potato Casserole and Roasted Asparagus.



I’m using a favorite cut of Bison for Dinner tonight, SayersBrook Chopped Bison Sirloin. I had it in the freezer so I grabbed a couple of bags of it and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. To start I preheated the oven on 400 degrees. To prepare it I’ll need McCormick Grinder Sea Salt and

Peppercorn Medley, McCormick Crushed Rosemary, and McCormick Thyme Leaves. I got the Cast Iron Skillet out to prepare it. I first sprayed it with a very light coat of Pam Cooking Spray and then added a tablespoon of Extra Light Olive Oil. Heated it on medium heat. When the pan was heated I added the Chopped Steak. I cooked each side 2 minutes.Then finished it in the oven, at 400 degrees for 7 minutes. It cooked up beautifully, perfect medium rare! Had a nice little char on the outside and moist and juicy inside. These are so tender you could slice them with a spoon and have an excellent taste to them. Just another very good item from SayersBrook Ranch! Mom even had one and loved it!


For a side dish I prepared a box of Idahoan Au Gratin Potato Homestyle Casserole. Being a Potato Lover like I am, I really enjoy all the Idahoan Potato Products. I’ve made the Au Gratin Potato many times. To prepare it; Preheat the oven to 450°F. Combined the Potatoes and Sauce mix in a 1 1/2 quart baking dish. Stir in 2 cups boiling Water, 3/4 cup 2% Milk, and 1 1/2 Tbsp. Blue Bonnet Light Butter with whisk. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender. Remove from oven and let stand a few minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools. Such an easy way to get a delicious Potato Casserole!

For another side I prepared Roasted Asparagus. To prepare the Asparagus I just needed Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic (minced), Sea Salt, Freshly grated Black Pepper, Lemon Juice, and Shredded
Parmesan Cheese. Rinse clean the asparagus. Break the tough ends off of the asparagus and discard. Lay the asparagus spears out in a single layer in a baking dish or a foil-covered roasting pan. Drizzle
olive oil over the spears, roll the asparagus back and forth until they are all covered with a thin layer of olive oil. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub over the asparagus so that they are evenly seasoned. Place pan in oven and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, depending on how thick your asparagus spears are, until tender when pierced with a fork. Drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice and Grated Reduced Fat Parm Cheese before serving. For Dessert/Snack later some Honey Crisp Apple Slices.







SayersBrook Ranch Bison Chopped Sirloin Steak

If you like the flavor of the sirloin, love the Bison Burger but want to take it up a notch, then the Chopped Sirloin Steak is for you! 4 lbs (4 packages each with 2-8oz chopped sirloin steaks).
Great flavor of the sirloin but also extremely tender and juicy.
http://www.sayersbrook.com/bison-chopped-sirloin-steak-4-lbs/










Idahoan Au Gratin Homestyle Casserole

Product Description

There’s no better way to start a savory Au Gratin homestyle casserole than with world-famous Idaho® potatoes, which is why you’ll taste only 100% grown-in-Idaho potatoes in this rich & cheesy side. For family meals or for special occasions, this cheesy, delicious dish is sure to please.

Preparation Instructions

Oven Directions

Best for Golden Browning

PREHEAT oven to 450°F. COMBINE potatoes and sauce mix in 1 1/2 quart baking dish.
STIR in 1 1/2 cups boiling water, 3/4 cup milk, and 1 1/2 Tbsp. margarine or butter with whisk.
BAKE uncovered for 25 minutes or until top is golden brown and potatoes are tender (sauce will thicken slightly when cooling).
Remove from oven and let stand a few minutes before serving.
BAKING NOTES: To prepare 2 casseroles at once, double all ingredients, increase baking dish size accordingly, and bake about 30 min. To bake potatoes and roast meat at the same time, bake at 375°F for about 45 min; 350°F for about 50 min; or 325°F for about 60 min.

Nutrition Facts
Amount Per Serving Unprepared Prepared
Calories 100 160
Total Fat 1g* 2% 9%
Saturated Fat 0g 0% 8%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg 0% 2%
Sodium 590mg 25% 28%
Total Carbohydrates 20g 7% 8%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4% 4%
Sugars 2g
Protein 2g
http://www.idahoan.com/products/retail/augratin-homestyle-casserole

Cumin Spiced Pork Chops w/ Roasted Butternut Squash and Roasted Asparagus

Dinner Tonight: Cumin Spiced Pork Chops w/ Roasted Butternut Squash and Roasted Asparagus





For Breakfast this morning I prepared a favorite of mine. I made some Simply Potatoes Shredded Hash Browns, Heated up some Meijer Diced Ham, fried an Egg Sunnyside Up, made a cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. I made a bed of the Hash Browns in a bow and sprinkled some Sargento

Reduced Fat Sharp Cheddar Cheese. Next I put the Diced Ham over top the Hash Browns then put the Sunnyside Up Egg on to top it off. Wow what a change in the weather! A high of 62 degrees and mostly sunny yesterday and a high of 28 degrees with a wind chill around 22 degrees! Welcome to Ohio Weather! Did some cleaning around the house and then cleaned and straightened 2 closets, much needed. For Dinner tonight I prepared Cumin Spiced Pork Chops w/ Roasted Butternut Squash and Roasted Asparagus.




I had picked up a package of Pork Tenderloin Center Cut Pork Chop at Meijer a few days ago  and had them in the freezer. I laid 2 of them in the fridge overnight to thaw. So to prepare my Chops I’ll need; The Cumin Spiced Rub which consists of; 1 tbsp Roasted Cumin, 1 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Chili
Powder, 1 teaspoon Sea Salt, 1/2 teaspoon Hungarian Paprika, 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper. I always have some of the Rub made up in a large Spice Jar I have To prepare it preheat oven to 400°. Combine all the ingredients; rub it all over the pork chop. Let stand 20 minutes. Start by heating the Extra Virgin Olive oil in a Cast Iron Skillet over medium-high heat. Add Chops to pan; cook 3 minutes, browning both sides. From the stove to the oven and bake at 400° for 15 minutes until the thermometer registered 150° (slightly pink), turning after 5 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before slicing. Fantastic combo of Spices, which makes one incredible Crust on the Chop with the inside being tender and moist! Love this seasoning on Pork. Because of the size of them there is some leftover for Breakfast!


Then for one side I prepared some Roasted Butternut Squash, easy recipe for some delicious
Butternut Squash! I purchased 1 small package of Diced Butternut Squash at Kroger. They sell packages of it that they dice up. This is a lot easier than peeling and seeding one yourself, especially if you don’t have a good knife to cut it. I’ll need; 1 package of Diced Butternut Squash, Walnut Pieces, 1 tablespoons Extra Light Olive Oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons McCormick Grinder Sea Salt, and 1 teaspoon McCormick Grinder Peppercorn Medley.

To prepare it; Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Place the Squash on a sheet pan and drizzle with the
Olive Oil, Salt, and Peppercorn and toss well. Arrange the squash in one layer and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, until the Squash is tender, turning once with a spatula. And done, very easy to prepare. With the small amount of Seasoning and Olive Oil, it really brings out the flavor of Butternut Squash! The Walnuts work perfect with the Squash.






For another side I prepared Roasted Asparagus. To prepare the Asparagus I just needed Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic (minced), Sea Salt, Freshly grated Black Pepper, Lemon Juice, and Shredded Parmesan Cheese. Rinse clean the asparagus. Break the tough ends off of the asparagus and discard.

Lay the asparagus spears out in a single layer in a baking dish or a foil-covered roasting pan. Drizzle olive oil over the spears, roll the asparagus back and forth until they are all covered with a thin layer of olive oil. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub over the asparagus so that they are evenly seasoned. Place pan in oven and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, depending on how thick your asparagus spears are, until tender when pierced with a fork. Drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice and shredded Parm Cheese before serving. For Dessert/Snack later a bowl of Skinny Pop – Pop Corn with a Diet Peach Snapple to drink.









Pork Facts….
One serving of pork is 3 ounces, or about the size of a deck of cards, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. An image of the portion size is important because a thick pork chop can be twice that size and without realizing it you can eat double the calories. You’ll get 137 calories and 4 grams of fat from a 3-ounce pork chop. Pork is similar to chicken, with 3 ounces of chicken breast containing 140 calories and 3 grams of fat. A pork chop has 65 milligrams of cholesterol, compared to 72 grams in chicken breast, but they both have just 1 gram of saturated fat.




Butternut Squash Health Benefits.........
Low in fat, butternut squash delivers an ample dose of dietary fiber, making it an exceptionally heart- friendly choice. It provides significant amounts of potassium, important for bone health, and vitamin B6, essential for the proper functioning of both the nervous and immune systems.







Asparagus Health Benefits........
It's low in calories and a great source of nutrients, including fiber, folate and vitamins A, C and K.
Additionally, eating asparagus has a number of potential health benefits, including weight loss, improved digestion, healthy pregnancy outcomes and lower blood pressure.

Kitchen Hint of the Day!

Buying Asparagus........


When buying asparagus look for stalks that are firm and the tips are compact and bright green.

Fried Freshwater Shrimp w/ Roasted Butternut Squash and Roasted Asparagus

Dinner Tonight: Fried Freshwater Shrimp w/ Roasted Butternut Squash and Roasted Asparagus

To start the day off I made some Simply Potatoes Shredded Hash Browns, Heated up some Meijer
Diced Ham, fried an Egg Sunnyside Up, made a cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. I made a bed of the Hashbrowns in a bowl and sprinkled some Sargento Reduced Fat Sharp Cheddar Cheese. Next I put the Diced Ham over top the Hash Browns then put the Sunnyside Up Egg on to top it off. I love combinations of Potatoes, Ham, and Egg! Heavy rains this morning and cloudy all day out today. So I cleaned the house today, dusted and ran the sweeper. Scrubbed all the Kitchen Counters and cleaned out the Fridge. For Dinner tonight I prepared Fried Freshwater Shrimp w/ Roasted Butternut Squash and Roasted Asparagus.


We’re having Shrimp tonight, we could eat Shrimp and Seafood every day! While at Kroger
yesterday I picked up some of the huge Freshwater Colossal Shrimp, I cleaned them and put them in the fridge until needed for Dinner tonight. I love these, they are so meaty. They don’t have that Ocean taste like Ocean Shrimp but they’re not bad. To prepare these I’m using McCormick Golden Dipt Cracker Meal Seafood Fry Mix.







Poured about 1 inch of Extra Light Olive Oil into large skillet. Heated the oil to 350°F on medium
heat. I then took a 1/2 cup of the Cracker Meal Mix in a Hefty Zip Lock Plastic Bag. Take the peeled shrimp, 3 at a time and place them in the bag and shake until Shrimp had a nice coating on them. Had all the Shrimp coated I then began to fry them. Frying them about 3 minutes the shrimp, a few pieces at a time, in the hot oil until light golden brown turning after 1 1/2 minutes. Drain on paper towel lined plate . Love using the McCormick Cracker Meal Mix, nice light crust and seasoning.




For a side dish I prepared some Roasted Butternut Squash, easy recipe for some delicious Butternut Squash! I purchased 1 small package of Diced Butternut Squash at Kroger. They sell packages of it that they dice up. This is a lot easier than peeling and seeding one yourself, especially if you don’t have a good knife to cut it. I’ll need; 1 package of Diced Butternut Squash, Walnut Pieces, 1 tablespoon Extra Light Olive Oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons McCormick Grinder Sea Salt, and 1 teaspoon McCormick Grinder Peppercorn Medley.





To prepare it; Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Place the Squash on a sheet pan and drizzle with the Olive Oil, Salt, and Peppercorn and toss well. Arrange the squash in one layer and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, until the Squash is tender, turning once with a spatula. And done, very easy to prepare. With the small amount of Seasoning and Olive Oil, it really brings out the flavor of Butternut Squash! The Walnuts work perfect with the Squash.







For another side I prepared Roasted Asparagus. To prepare the Asparagus I just needed Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic (minced), Sea Salt, Freshly grated Black Pepper, Lemon Juice, and  Shredded

Parmesan Cheese. Rinse clean the asparagus. Break the tough ends off of the asparagus and discard. Lay the asparagus spears out in a single layer in a baking dish or a foil-covered roasting pan. Drizzle olive oil over the spears, roll the asparagus back and forth until they are all covered with a thin layer of olive oil. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub over the asparagus so that they are evenly seasoned. Place pan in oven and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, depending on how thick your asparagus spears are, until tender when pierced with a fork. Drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice and shredded Parm Cheese before serving. For Dessert/Snack later a bowl of Skinny Pop - Pop Corn with a Diet Peach Snapple to drink.






McCormick Cracker Meal Seafood Fry Mix

Cracker Meal Seafood Fry Mix adds extra crunchiness to fried and baked foods. All ingredients have

been specially selected to provide a superior coating that seals in natural juices for fish, seafood, poultry, meats and vegetables.

Ingredients
Enriched Bleached Wheat Flour (Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, And Folic Acid), Whey (Milk), Dextrose, And Soybean Oil.

Serving size
1/4 cup Mix (32g)
All You Need
1/2 cup Cracker Meal
1 lb. Fish or Seafood*
Water or Milk
Vegetable Oil
Directions
1. POUR Cracker Meal into shallow dish or large plastic bag. Moisten fish, cut into serving-size pieces, or seafood with water or milk. Shake off excess.
2. COAT fish, several pieces at a time, evenly with Cracker Meal. Let stand 5 minutes. Discard any remaining Cracker Meal. Fry as directed below. Serve with McCormick® Cocktail Sauce or Tartar Sauce. Use the entire package to coat 4 lbs. fish or seafood.

*Best with tilapia, trout, catfish, shrimp, or scallops. Also try with shucked oysters and clams, or soft-shell crabs (pierce several times before coating).

Pan Fry: Pour oil to a depth of 1/4 inch in a large skillet; heat to 350°F on medium heat. Fry fish, in batches, 2 to 4 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Drain on paper towels.

Oven Fry: Cover bottom of shallow baking pan with melted butter. Arrange fish or seafood in a single layer in pan; turn to coat with butter. Bake in preheated 425ºF oven 10 to 20 minutes until golden brown around edges and fish flakes easily with a fork.

Flavorful Tips:
• For a thicker coating, dip fish in a mixture of 3 tbsp. milk and 2 beaten eggs before coating with Cracker Meal.
• Coat boneless skinless chicken breast halves or chicken parts as directed. Bake in 400ºF oven 20 to 30 minutes for chicken breast halves or 45 to 50 minutes for chicken parts.
• Use Cracker Meal instead of bread crumbs when making meat loaf or meat balls.

http://www.mccormick.com/spices-and-flavors/seafood/breading-and-batters/cracker-meal-seafood-fry-mix

Seasoned Gulf Coast Grouper w/ Roasted Asparagus and Smashed Red Potatoes

Dinner Tonight: Seasoned Gulf Coast Grouper w/ Roasted Asparagus, Smashed Red Potatoes, and Baked Garlic Bread Loaf




I made a Big Breakfast for me and Mom this morning. I fried up some Thin Cut Breakfast Chops, prepared some Simply Potatoes Garlic and Herb Potatoes, Scrambled Eggs, and toasted slices of

Aunt Millie's Light Whole Grain Bread. Also had a cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. Needless to say I skipped Lunch after this Breakfast! Outside it's mostly cloudy and 83 degrees. After Breakfast I went to Walmart and had to get a new water hose for outside. The old one was leaking where the connector threads weer worn out. Back home got the leaf blower out and cleaned off the deck, driveway, and shed. I think I'm going to buy some wood and make some shelves for the shed. Since we cleaned and straightened it up we have all kinds of space now. For Dinner tonight I prepared Seasoned Gulf Coast Grouper w/ Roasted Asparagus, Smashed Red Potatoes, and Baked Garlic Bread Loaf.


I love my Fish and Seafood, especially this Florida Gulf Coast Grouper. My good friend just got back

from his Florida Home and brought several fresh fillets of Grouper! These were just caught a couple of days ago and briefly frozen.  So I  laid a couple of the fillets in the fridge overnight to thaw. To prepare the fillets I seasoned them with just a bit of Sea Salt and put the fillets in a Hefty Zip Plastic Bag where I then added the Zatarain’s Seafood Breading Mix Seasoning. Shook until the fillets were well coated. Shook off the excess. Then got the Cast Iron Skillet out, sprayed it with a light coat of Pam Cooking Spray and added a tablespoon of Extra Light Olive Oil. Heated the skillet on medium heat. When the skillet was ready I added the Grouper Fillets, frying about 3 1/2 minutes per side until golden brown. Grouper is so meaty and flavorful. And these fillets tasted so fresh, thank you Jim for bringing these to me!


For one side dish I prepared Roasted Asparagus for one side. To prepare the Asparagus I just needed Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cloves Roasted Asparagus Garlic (minced), Sea Salt, Freshly grated Black

Pepper, Lemon Juice, and  Shredded Parmesan Cheese. Rinse clean the asparagus. Break the tough ends off of the asparagus and discard. Lay the asparagus spears out in a single layer in a baking dish or a foil-covered roasting pan. Drizzle olive oil over the spears, roll the asparagus back and forth until they are all covered with a thin layer of olive oil. (Alternatively you can put the asparagus and oil in a plastic bag, and rub the bag so that the oil gets evenly distributed.) Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub over the asparagus so that they are evenly seasoned. Place pan in oven and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, depending on how thick your asparagus spears are, until tender when pierced with a fork. Drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice and Grated Parmesan Cheese before serving.


For another side I made some Smashed Red Potatoes. I grabbed a Cast Iron Skillet and sprayed it with a light coat of Pam Non Stick Cooking Spray and added a tablespoon of the Extra Light Olive Oil. Preheated the Skillet on medium heat. Next I quartered the Red Potatoes, putting them in a large bowl. Seasoned them with the Garlic salt, Dried Parsley, Grinder Sea Salt and Peppercorn Medley, Bacon Pieces, and 1 tablespoon of the Extra Light Olive Oil. Mixed them with the Seasoning until the Potatoes were Seasoned on all sides. I then added them to the preheated Cast Iron Skillet.



When the Red potatoes were ready, fork tender, I removed them from the skillet and put them into a large bowl. Added 2 pats of Blue Bonnet Light Butter and got out the hand Potato Masher. I stirred the Potatoes , mixing them with the Butter. I then Smashed them a couple of times withe Masher. I just Smashed them enough to break them up but leaving chunks of the Potatoes in it. Served by Seasoning it with some McCormick Grinders of Sea Salt and Peppercorn Medley along with some of the Blue Bonnet Light Butter. These turned out great! I also baked a loaf of RiverRoad Bake House Multi Grain Oval Loaf Bread. This has become the family’s favorite Baked Bread. For Dessert/Snack later a bowl of Skinny Pop – Pop Corn and a Coke Zero to drink.






Grouper – Firm texture, white meat with large flake and a mild flavor. Extra lean fish.

NUTRITION
Nutritional values for approximately 4 ounces (114 grams) of raw, edible portions
* Calories 110
* Calories From Fat 20
* Total Fat 2 g
* Saturated Fat 0 g
* Cholesterol 55 mg
* Sodium 65 mg
* Total Carbohydrates 0 g
* Protein 23 g

Fried Chicken Breasts w/ Black Beans with Rice and Roasted Asparagus

Dinner Tonight: Fried Chicken Breasts w/ Black Beans with Rice and Roasted Asparagus




For Breakfast I just had a a cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. Well my computer was going on and off on me but I replaced the modem and it seems to have fixed the problem. But one solved and

another problem starts. We have been without water since around 4:00 yesterday afternoon. That finally came back on at Noon today. So later in the day I went with Mom and we put flowers on some of the family graves. We got back home just before a Thunderstorm moved in for the late afternoon. Lot of wind and rain with it. Hopefully everything is back to normal! For Dinner tonight I prepared Fried Chicken Breasts w/ Black Beans with Rice and Roasted Asparagus.





For my Chicken, I picked up a package of Simple Truth Skinless and Boneless Chicken Breasts. To prepare them I'll be needing Flour, Paprika, Ground Cumin, Litehouse Poultry Herb Blend, Salt, and Pepper.











To prepare it I’m using a large skillet to fry the Chicken. I first sprayed it with Pam Cooking Spray and then added a tablespoon of Extra Light Olive Oil to it, preheated on medium heat. As the skillet

was heating I grabbed a pie pan and added a couple of tablespoons of Flour to it. Then I seasoned the Flour with the Paprika, Ground Cumin, and Litehouse Poultry Herb Blend. Took a fork and blended everything together. I then took the Chicken Breasts and rolled them in the Flour Mix, making sure both sides were fully Floured. Next I seasoned them with the Salt and Pepper. With the skillet heated, I added the Chicken to the skillet. I fried the Chicken until it was golden brown on one side and flipped it over and fried the other side the same way. Checked it with a meat thermometer and it was 165 degrees, perfect. The Chicken came out moist and tender with a nice crust. I served it with a side of Hidden Valley Ranch Buffalo Dressing.


For the Black Beans and Rice I used a new one, Lundberg Organic Whole Grain Black Beans and Rice. I've used several of the Lundberg Products and love them all! So to prepare these: In a medium

saucepan combine 2 cups of water, rice, beans and seasoning packet, and 1 Tbsp. olive oil. Stir well and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low. Do not lift lid while cooking. Simmer for 28 minutes. Remove from heat. Let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with fork and serve. Another excellent Grain Side Dish from Lundberg! Rice excellent as always and the Black Beans were perfect with the Rice. Good side dish for Pork, Beef, and Buffalo as well.






 For a second side dish I prepared Roasted Asparagus for one side. To prepare the Asparagus I just needed Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cloves Roasted Asparagus Garlic (minced), Sea Salt, Freshly grated Black Pepper, Lemon Juice, and Shredded Parmesan Cheese. Rinse clean the asparagus. Break the

tough ends off of the asparagus and discard. Lay the asparagus spears out in a single layer in a baking dish or a foil-covered roasting pan. Drizzle olive oil over the spears, roll the asparagus back and forth until they are all covered with a thin layer of olive oil. (Alternatively you can put the asparagus and oil in a plastic bag, and rub the bag so that the oil gets evenly distributed.) Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub over the asparagus so that they are evenly seasoned. Place pan in oven and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, depending on how thick your asparagus spears are, until tender when pierced with a fork. Drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice and shredded Parm Cheese before serving. I had also baked a loaf of RiverRoad Bake House Multi Grain Oval Loaf Bread. This has became the family’s favorite Baked Bread. For Dessert/Snack later a bowl of Tostitos Multi Grain Scoops with Newman's Own Black Bean and Corn Salsa. I love this Salsa and its been a while since I've I had some. I also had a Diet Green Tea Snapple to drink.





Lundberg Organic Whole Grain Black Beans and Rice

DESCRIPTION
Enjoy this popular combination inspired by the Cuban version of rice and beans. Made with whole

grain organic brown rice and high-fiber black beans, it’s a deliciously smart way to serve up a healthful side dish. You’ll love the spicy blend and the amazing flavor.

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS
Stove Top:

1 - In a medium saucepan combine 2 cups of water, rice, beans & seasoning packet, and 1 Tbsp. olive oil (optional). Stir well and bring to a boil.
2 - Cover and reduce heat to low. Do not lift lid while cooking. Simmer for 28 minutes.
3 - Remove from heat. Let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with fork and serve.
4 - Soak up the compliments.

INGREDIENTS
Organic Parboiled Brown Rice, Organic Dehydrated Black Beans, Organic Spices (Paprika, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Cumin, Celery Seed, Cayenne), Sea Salt, Organic Dehydrated Vegetables (Tomato, Red Bell Pepper), Organic Dehydrated Onion, Organic Dehydrated Garlic, Organic Sugar, Organic Rice Concentrate.

NUTRITION FACTS
SIZE 6oz
Serving Size: 2oz. (56g - about 1/4 cup rice and 1 1/3 tbsp. seasoning mix) (1 cup prepared)

Servings Per Container: about 3

AMOUNT PER SERVING
Calories 210Calories from Fat 15
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 2g3%
Saturated Fat 0g 0%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 480mg 20%
Total Carbohydrate 44g 15%
Dietary Fiber 5g  20%
Sugars 2g
Protein 6g
http://www.lundberg.com/product/organic-whole-grain-rice-black-beans/

Healthy Asparagus Recipes

From the EatingWell website and Magazine its Healthy Asparagus Recipes. Delicious and Healthy Asparagus Recipes like; Skillet Gnocchi with Shrimp and Asparagus, Potato, Asparagus and Mushroom Hash, and Gorgonzola and Asparagus Flan. Find these recipes and more all at the EatingWell website. Enjoy and Eat Healthy in 2018! http://www.eatingwell.com/

Healthy Asparagus Recipes

Find healthy, delicious asparagus recipes including grilled, roasted and steamed asparagus. Healthier recipes, from the food and nutrition experts at EatingWell.


Skillet Gnocchi with Shrimp and Asparagus
The gnocchi cooks right in the skillet, along with shrimp, shallots, asparagus and Parmesan cheese, in this gnocchi recipe. Look for shelf-stable gnocchi near other pasta. Serve with baby arugula salad with vinaigrette and a glass of pinot grigio..........


Potato, Asparagus and Mushroom Hash
Made with asparagus, roasted red pepper and mushrooms, this hash has a fresh and light, springtime taste. Serve with hearty whole-grain toast and an egg or two on top...........


Gorgonzola and Asparagus Flan
Flan gets a savory treatment in this decadent vegetarian appetizer recipe. Sweet-salty gorgonzola dolce, crème fraîche, asparagus and eggs melt together into a delicious custard. Serve with crusty bread and dry Italian Gavi di Gavi white wine.



* Click the link below to get all the Healthy Asparagus Recipes
http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/19289/ingredients/vegetables/asparagus/

Kitchen Hint of the Day!

To crisp cut up greens like lettuce, cilantro, or anything else that wilts, soak them in ice water for 15-20 minutes. This also works for limp asparagus and carrots.

Tuscan Seasoned Pork Medallions w/ Savory Herb Potatoes and Roasted Asparagus

Dinner Tonight: Tuscan Seasoned Pork Medallions w/ Savory Herb Potatoes and Roasted Asparagus






To start my morning off I prepared a Poached Egg and served it on a toasted Healthy Life Whole Grain English Muffin. I also heated up a couple of Johnsonville Turkey Breakfast Sausage Links along with a cup of Bigelow Decaf Green Tea. I have to have my Tea to start the day! After Breakfast I headed to the local Kroger for a few items I needed then stopped by McDonald's and picked up Breakfast for Mom and Dad. Outside we had a high of 49 degrees and mostly cloudy. Gave Mom a hand with a couple of laundry. Not much going on after that. For dinner tonight I prepared Tuscan Seasoned Pork Medallions w/ Savory Herb Potatoes, Roasted Asparagus, and Baked Multi Grain Bread.



On my last visit to Costco last week I had bought another package of the always delicious Tuscan
Seasoned Pork Loin Medallions. They cut it fresh for me and seasoned it as I shopped. The package had 20 slices in it and have them in the Freezer. So Last night I grabbed a package out of the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge.









To start I preheated the oven on 400 degrees. To prepare them I used a Cast Iron Skillet. Sprayed it

with Pam Cooking Spray and added 1 tablespoon of Extra Light Olive Oil and heated it on medium heat. I then lightly Salted the Pork with Sea Salt and a sprinkle of McCormick Dried Parsley. Added the Pork to the skillet and cooked it for 2 minutes a side, as it just started to brown. Then from the stove to the oven, love Cast Iron Skillets! I then backed them to a medium rare, 145 degrees in the center of the medallions using a meat thermometer. Pork Tenderloin is one of my favorites. The Pork is so tender and flavorful. Seasoned just right and so moist.





For one side dish I prepared the Little Potato Co. Savory Herb Potatoes. I love these! The Potatoes
come in a microwavable tray. Just pop the tray in the microwave for five minutes and mix in the seasoning pack and you have a nutritious and tasty Potato Dish. These are definitely a good item to have in the pantry! So easy to prepare and no clean up.









I prepared Roasted Asparagus for one side. To prepare the Asparagus I just needed Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cloves Roasted Asparagus Garlic (minced), Sea Salt, Freshly grated Black Pepper, Lemon Juice,

and Shredded Parmesan Cheese. Rinse clean the asparagus. Break the tough ends off of the asparagus and discard. Lay the asparagus spears out in a single layer in a baking dish or a foil-covered roasting pan. Drizzle olive oil over the spears, roll the asparagus back and forth until they are all covered with a thin layer of olive oil. (Alternatively you can put the asparagus and oil in a plastic bag, and rub the bag so that the oil gets evenly distributed.) Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub over the asparagus so that they are evenly seasoned. Place pan in oven and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, depending on how thick your asparagus spears are, until tender when pierced with a fork. Drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice and shredded Parm Cheese before serving. I had also baked a loaf of RiverRoad Bake House Multi Grain Oval Loaf Bread. This has became the family’s favorite Baked Bread. For Dessert/Snack later a bowl of Skinny Pop – Pop Corn and a Diet Peach Snapple to drink.







Pork Facts….
One serving of pork is 3 ounces, or about the size of a deck of cards, according to the National Heart,

Lung and Blood Institute. An image of the portion size is important because a thick pork chop can be twice that size and without realizing it you can eat double the calories. You’ll get 137 calories and 4 grams of fat from a 3-ounce pork chop. Pork is similar to chicken, with 3 ounces of chicken breast containing 140 calories and 3 grams of fat. A pork chop has 65 milligrams of cholesterol, compared to 72 grams in chicken breast, but they both have just 1 gram of saturated fat.