May 30, 2012

52 Healthy Meals in 12 Minutes or Less

This is a post from greatist.com with great ideas for healthy and quick meals....
http://greatist.com/health/52-healthy-meals-in-12-minutes-or-less/
Breakfast:
1. PB & H Waffle
Toast 1 whole-grain waffle and smear with 1 tbsp. natural peanut butter. Drizzle with 1 tsp. honey and sprinkle with 1 tsp. sesame seeds.
2. Cold Pizza
Nope, not the takeout kind! Toast 1 slice whole-grain bread and top with 2 tbsp. ricotta, 1 large basil leaf, 2 tomato slices, a drizzle of olive oil, and salt and pepper.
3. Eggs in a Muffin
Heat a pan with a spritz of cooking spray over medium heat. Season 1 egg with salt and pepper, scramble, and cook to desired consistency (no more than five minutes). Top egg with 1 slice cheddar cheese and allow cheese to melt. Pile egg and cheese on 1 toasted whole-wheat English muffin and add 1 slice cooked Canadian bacon. (Use half the muffin and eat it open-faced to save a few calories!)
4. Canadian Waffles
Toast 1 whole-wheat waffle and top with 1 slice cooked Canadian bacon, 1 over-easy egg (prepared with cooking spray), and a 1 to 2 tsp. drizzle of maple syrup.
5. Cereal A-Go-Go
Swap out the milk in a bowl of cereal for 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt flavored with 1/8 tsp. lemon zest and 1 tsp. honey. Add ½ cup bran flakes and some extra flavor with ¼ cup fresh berries or 1 tbsp. sliced almonds.
6. Breakfast Taco
In a pan spritzed with cooking spray over medium-high heat, scramble 3 egg whites, a small handful of spinach leaves, and 1 tbsp. drained and rinsed black beans. Season with salt and pepper. Wrap mixture in an 8-inch whole-wheat tortilla and top with 1 tbsp. salsa.
7. Chocolate-Banana Shake
Blend together 1 packet chocolate breakfast powder (like Carnation Breakfast Essentials), 1 cup milk of choice, and ½ frozen banana. Optional: Add a scoop of protein powder for improved muscle recovery.
8. Oatmeal in an Instant
Skip pre-made packets in favor of this homemade version. Combine ½ cup rolled oats, 1 cup milk or water, and a pinch of salt, and microwave for 3 minutes. Stir in toppings of choice, like 1 tsp. maple syrup, 2 tbsp. sliced almonds, or ¼ cup dried fruit.
9. Broiled Grapefruit
Preheat broiler and halve 1 chilled grapefruit. Sprinkle each half with ½ tsp. sugar and ¼ tsp. cinnamon. Broil both halves on a baking sheet for 3-5 minutes. Serve with 1 slice of whole-wheat toast spread with 1 tbsp. nut butter for a complete breakfast.
10. Mini Wrap
Top an 8-inch whole-wheat tortilla with 2 slices Canadian bacon, ½ sliced apple, and 2 to 3 slices cheddar cheese. Roll up and microwave for 45 seconds to 1 minute, or until cheese is melted.
11. Vegan Breakfast Scramble
In a frying pan over medium-high heat combine ½ cup tofu (crumbled), a handful of spinach, ¼ cup chopped red peppers, 1/8 cup chopped onion, 1/8 cup chopped vegetarian bacon, and a few dashes of paprika. Sauté until veggies are cooked and tofu is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
12. Nutty ‘Nana
Toast 1 slice whole-grain bread and top with 1 tbsp. crunchy almond butter and ½ a sliced banana.
13. Berry Yogurty Smoothie
Blend together ½ cup frozen strawberries, ½ cup frozen blueberries, 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt, 2 tsp. honey, and ¼ cup milk of choice.
14. Sweet n’ Savory Breakfast Pizza
Preheat the broiler (or toaster oven). Microwave 2 slices turkey bacon for 30-60 seconds (or until crisp) and crumble once cooked. Spread 1 tbsp. low-fat ricotta on 1 whole-wheat tortilla. Top with ¼ cup sliced strawberries and/or blueberries and the bacon. Broil 5 minutes or until fruit softens and begins to caramelize.
15. Sun-Dried Tomato Omelet
Coat a pan with cooking spray and place over medium-high heat. Pour in 3 egg whites mixed with 1 tsp. water and salt and pepper (to taste). When eggs begin to set, top half with 2 tbsp. goat cheese, ½ cup fresh spinach, and 2 tbsp. chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Fold in half and cook 2 more minutes, or until egg whites are set, veggies are warmed through, and cheese is melted.
16. Frog in a Hole
Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Spread 1 slice of whole-grain bread with 1 tsp. butter. Use a cookie or biscuit-cutter to cut a hole in the center of the bread. Place the bread— buttered-side down— in the pan and crack 1 egg into the hole. Cook until egg sets, about 2 to 4 minutes. (Flip half way through for a more well done egg.)
17. Fruit Parfait
Layer together: 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt sweetened with 1 tsp. honey, ½ cup granola, and ½ cup frozen blueberries and strawberries.
18. Breakfast Quickie Cookie
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine ½ cup oats, ¼ cup liquid egg whites, 1 ½ tbsp. brown sugar, 1 ½ tbsp. all-purpose flour, ½ tsp. vanilla extract, ½ tsp. baking powder, 2 tbsp. raisins, and cinnamon to taste. Flatten half the mixture into the bottom of the bowl and microwave for 45 seconds. Pop cookie out of the bowl and repeat with second half of mixture.
19. Pumpkin Muesli
Combine ¼ cup quick-cooking oats and ¼ cup pumpkin puree in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and nuke for 20 seconds. Let sit for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, combine ½ cup plain nonfat yogurt, 2 tbsp. honey, 1 tsp. lemon zest, and 2 tbsp. sliced almonds in a separate bowl. Stir yogurt mixture into the oat mixture and enjoy. Extra points for adding fresh fruit, too!
Lunch:
20. Green Tortilla Pizza
Preheat the broiler. Spread 2 tbsp. pesto (homemade or store bought) on 1 whole-grain 8-inch tortilla. Sprinkle with 2 tbsp. chopped broccoli florets, a large handful of spinach, 4 sliced baby bella mushrooms, 2 tbsp. chopped onions, and 2 tbsp. part-skim mozzarella. Broil until cheese is lightly browned, about 4 minutes.
21. Taco Salad
For the dressing, combine 2 tbsp. salsa, 1 tbsp. low-fat Greek yogurt, 1 tsp. olive oil, and 1 tsp. chili powder. Serve dressing over a salad with: 2 cups baby spinach, ½ thinly sliced celery stalk, 1 chopped scallion, 1 tbsp. chopped black olives, 2 tbsp. corn, and ¼ cup drained and rinsed black beans. Optional: Add ½ lightly toasted tortilla cut into strips to each salad.
22. Mediterranean Pita
Split open a whole-wheat pita and spread one side with 2 tbsp. hummus. Add 1 large roasted red pepper (sliced), 1 tbsp. crumbled feta, 1 tbsp. black olives, 5 slices cucumber, and a small handful of mixed greens.
23. Niçoise Sandwich
In a bowl, combine 1 6-oz. can tuna, ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup pitted black olives (chopped), and 1 tbsp. olive oil. Split open ¼ whole-wheat baguette (about 4 inches in length) and fill with the tuna mixture and a handful of baby spinach leaves.
24. Roast Beef Roll
Spread 1 oz. light cream cheese and ½ tbsp. horseradish on 1 whole-wheat wrap. Layer on 2 oz. roast beef, 1 oz. sliced cheddar, and a handful of romaine lettuce. Roll up and enjoy.
25. Open-Faced White Bean Sandwich
Mash ¼ can rinsed and drained white beans with 1 tsp. olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toast 1 slice of whole-grain bread and spread with the bean mixture. Top with 1 slice red onion, 5 cucumber slices, and ¼ avocado (sliced).
26. Lighter Chef’s Salad
Tear ¼ head of romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Top the lettuce with ½ tomato (sliced), ½ avocado (cut into bite-sized pieces), 2 slices deli turkey, ¼ sliced red onion, 1/8 cup shaved Parmesan, 1 tbsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. balsamic vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste.
27. Grilled Cheddar n’ Apple
Between 2 slices of whole-grain bread, layer 1 to 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese (from the deli section) and ½ green apple (thinly sliced). Spread one slice of the bread with 1 tsp. deli mustard. Grill in a nonstick pan for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or cook in a panini press until cheese is melted.
28. Hawaiian Wrap
Combine ¼ cup nonfat Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp. white wine vinegar, and ½ tsp. caraway seeds in a small bowl. Toss together ¼ cup pineapple (diced), ½ carrot (shredded), 2 slices of deli ham (chopped), and ¼ head Napa cabbage (thinly sliced). Dress vegetables with the yogurt mixture and roll up in a whole-wheat wrap.
29. Souper Spicy Soup
In a medium saucepan, combine ¾ cup vegetable broth, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, and ½ tbsp. olive oil. When it reaches a boil, stir in 1/8 cup uncooked couscous, ¼ cup broccoli, and ¼ cup cauliflower (both chopped into small florets). Cook until tender. Optional: Serve topped with 1 oil-packed sun-dried tomato (chopped) and 1 scallion (thinly sliced).
30. Quinoa Salad
Microwave ½ cup quinoa (rinsed) and 1 cup water for 5 minutes at full power. Reduce to 70 percent power and microwave another 5 minutes. Fluff and stir in: 1 tbsp. chopped walnuts, ¼ cup rinsed and drained chick peas, 1 tbsp. chopped parsley, 1 tbsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Optional: Add ½ can tuna for a meatier meal.
31. Loaded Sweet Potato
Prick 1 sweet potato with a fork 4 to 5 times. Microwave on a paper towel on a microwave-safe plate for 4 to 5 minutes. Split open lengthwise and top with 2 tbsp. nonfat Greek yogurt, 1 tsp. honey, 2 tbsp. drained and rinsed black beans, and a pinch of paprika.
32. Black Bean Wrap
On 1 8-inch whole-wheat tortilla, mash ¼ cup drained and rinsed black beans with a fork. Sprinkle with a pinch of cumin, a pinch of paprika, and 1 tbsp. cheddar cheese. Roll up and microwave for 30 seconds. Serve with 2 tbsp. salsa.
33. Low-Carb Roll-Up
On a plate, layer 1 slice low-sodium deli turkey and 1 slice provolone cheese. Spread the cheese with 1 tsp. pesto (homemade or store bought!) and top with 2 slices avocado. Roll up the turkey and repeat 2 more times.
34. Fancy Fig Sandwich
Mix together 2 slices goat cheese, ½ tsp. honey and a pinch lemon zest. Spread the mixture between 2 slices whole-grain bread. Add 2 tsp. fig preserves and 1 tsp. thinly sliced basil. Grill the sandwich in a pan for 2 to 3 minutes per side or prepare in a panini press until warmed through.
35. Mango Quesadillas
Spread 1 8-inch, whole-wheat tortilla with 1/8 cup mango chutney. Add 2 slices deli ham, 1/8 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese, and 1 tbsp. scallion (chopped). Fold in half and grill 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Cut into quarters and serve.
36. Curried Chicken Salad
Combine 2 tbsp. nonfat plain Greek yogurt and ¼ tbsp. curry powder. Add ½ cup roasted chicken (diced), 1/8 cup red onion (diced), ¼ cup grapes (halved), and 1 tbsp. cilantro (chopped). Serve atop a large handful mixed greens.
Dinner:
37. Springtime Stir-Fry
Combine 5 asparagus spears (quartered lengthwise), ½ cup snow peas, ½ cup broccoli florets, and ¼ cup fava beans (shelled) in a pan coated with cooking spray, and heat over medium-high heat. Cook for 4 minutes. Instead of using pre-made sauce, heat 2 tbsp. canola oil with ½ tsp. grated ginger and 1 scallion (chopped), and toss with cooking veggies. Cook for an additional 3 minutes or until veggies are softened but still crisp inside. Optional: Serve with rice (like Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice, which cooks in approximately 90 seconds).
38. Kale and Cauliflower Pasta
Bring a small pot of water (with a lid on it) to a boil (about 4 to 5 minutes). Add 1 serving angel hair pasta (a small handful) and ¾ cup cauliflower florets. After 3 minutes, fish out the cauliflower and add to a trying pan over medium-high heat with ½ tbsp. olive oil, ½ shallot (chopped), 1 clove garlic (minced), and a handful of kale (stems removed and roughly torn). Cover and cook 4 minutes. Add cooked pasta, 1 tbsp. grated Parmesan, and ¼ cup reserved cooking water and toss to combine.
39. Honey Soy Salmon
Preheat the broiler and combine ½ tbsp. honey with ½ tsp. soy sauce. Season 1 5-oz. salmon filet with salt and pepper and broil for five minutes. Drizzle with honey-soy sauce and broil an additional 2-5 minutes. Serve with microwaveable rice.
40. Superfood Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Prepare 1 serving angel hair pasta according to package instructions, about 10 minutes (including the time it takes to boil the water). Heat ½ tbsp. olive oil in a frying pan and cook ½ lb. peeled and de-veined shrimp seasoned with a pinch of salt for 3 to 5 minutes over medium-high heat. Remove shrimp and add 1 tbsp. olives (chopped), 1 tbsp. parsley (chopped), and 1 clove garlic (minced). Cook 1 minute and add 1 cup fresh baby spinach, ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup chicken broth, and 1/8 cup white wine. Cover and cook 3 minutes. Stir in shrimp and serve with pasta.
41. From-Scratch Fish Sticks
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Slice 1 6-oz. cod filet into 6 strips. Season with 1/2 tsp. balsamic vinegar, 1/8 tsp. salt, and 1/8 tsp. paprika. Bread each by dipping into 1 egg (scrambled) and then ½ cup seasoned whole-wheat breadcrumbs. Place on a foil-lined baking sheet, spritz fish strips with cooking spray, and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until opaque throughout. Serve with a green salad (2 handfuls of spinach or mixed greens with a spritz of oil and vinegar) for a healthy dose of veggies!
42. Asparagus and Orzo Pasta
Preheat the broiler and bring a small pot of water (with a lid) to a boil (about 5 minutes). Add ¼ lb. asparagus (cut into 3-inch pieces) and ½ cup orzo to the pot. After 3 minutes, remove only the asparagus and continue cooking orzo according to package instructions (usually about 6 minutes). While orzo cooks, season 5 oz. salmon filet with salt and pepper and broil for 5 minutes, or until opaque throughout. Meanwhile, whisk together ½ oz. crumbled feta, ¼ tbsp. chopped dill, ½ tbsp. lemon juice, ½ tsp. olive oil, and pepper to taste. Flake the fish and toss together all ingredients.
43. Spicy Veggies
In a large skillet, combine ¼ can drained and rinsed black beans, ¼ can drained diced tomatoes, ½ zucchini (diced), and ¼ cup okra (diced). Cook 5 to 10 minutes, or until cooked through, and stir in hot sauce of choice and salt to taste.
44. Veggie Fried Rice
Prep 1 serving of instant rice (about ¾ cup) according to package instructions, approximately 90 seconds. Sauté cooked rice with ¼ zucchini (diced), ¼ cup cherry tomatoes (halved), and ¼ can drained and rinsed black beans. Add 1/8 cup vegetable broth and cook 5 to 7 minutes. Push the veggies and rice to outer edges of pan and scramble 1 egg in the center of the pan until cooked, about 3 minutes. Serve the fried rice topped with egg and ½ tbsp. shredded cheddar cheese.
45. Creamy Avocado Pasta
Cook 1 serving angel hair pasta according to package instructions, about 12 minutes (including boiling time!). Meanwhile, combine the juice from ½ a lemon, 1 garlic clove, 1 tbsp. olive oil, ½ of an avocado and 1/8 cup basil in a food processor and puree. Toss together pasta and sauce and season with salt to taste.
46. Tuna Pasta Salad
Cook 1 serving corkscrew pasta according to package instructions, about 12 minutes. In a bowl, combine ½ tbsp. balsamic vinegar, ½ tbsp. olive oil, and 1/8 tsp. celery salt. Stir in ½ can flaked white tuna, 1 chopped scallion, and ¼ cup halved grape tomatoes. Drain the pasta, rinse with cold water, and toss with the tuna mixture.
47. Couscous with Chicken Sausage Ragu
Cook 1 serving couscous according to microwave instructions, about 7 to 10 minutes. While couscous is cooking, heat ½ tbsp. olive oil over medium-high heat. Slice open 1 uncooked chicken sausage to remove the casing, and add meat to the pan. Add ¼ cup onion (chopped) and sauté, crumbling the meat with a wooden spoon. When the meat is no longer pink (about 4 to 5 minutes), add 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes, 1 garlic clove (minced), 1/8 cup basil leaves (chopped), and salt and pepper to taste. Cook about 2 minutes to warm through and toss with couscous.
48. Portobello Burgers
Preheat a grill or grill pan. Whisk together 1 clove garlic (minced), ½ tbsp. balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp. olive oil, and ½ tsp. fresh basil (finely chopped). Drizzle half the sauce over 1 Portobello mushroom cap. Grill the mushroom for 3 to 4 minutes per side, covered. Meanwhile, combine the remaining sauce with ½ tbsp. light mayo and spread on 1 whole-wheat bun (lightly toasted). Place the mushroom cap, 1 tomato slice, and 1 lettuce leaf on the bun.
49. Tropical Scallops
Prepare 1 serving instant brown rice according to package instructions, approximately 90 seconds. Stir together ½ cup mango (chopped), ½ small cucumber (peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces), ¼ tbsp. grated ginger, 1 tsp. lime juice, ½ tbsp. olive oil, and 1 tbsp. cilantro (chopped). Meanwhile, heat 1/2 tbsp. olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season ½ lb. sea scallops with salt and pepper, and sear for 2 minutes per side or until lightly browned and cooked through. Serve scallops with rice and mango salsa.
50. Spicy Shrimp Stir-Fry
Heat 1 tbsp. canola oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add 1/8 tsp. crushed red pepper and ¼ onion (sliced) and cook for 4 minutes. Add ½ a red bell pepper (sliced), ½ cup zucchini and squash (thinly sliced), and ¼ cup corn kernels and cook for 5 minutes. Add ¼ lb. shelled and de-veined shrimp and cook an additional 3 minutes, or until shrimp are pink in color and opaque.
51. Turkey Frittata
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. In a small ovenproof pan, heat ½ tbsp. olive oil over high heat. Add ¼ lb. ground turkey, ½ tsp. curry powder, and 1/8 cup grated onion and cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 3 to 4 minutes. Meanwhile, beat together 2 eggs, 1/8 cup milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the egg mixture to the pan, lower the heat to medium-high, and cook 2 minutes or until eggs begin to set. Transfer to the oven and cook until the eggs set, about 5 minutes.
52. Southern Breakfast (for Dinner)
Recreate this southern favorite in half the time. Combine ½ tbsp. lemon juice, a dash of Tobasco sauce, and ¼ lb. peeled and deveined shrimp. Heat ½ tbsp. olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add 1/8 cup chopped onion, 1 tbsp. green bell pepper (diced), and 1 clove garlic (minced). Cook 5 minutes and then add shrimp mixture, 1 scallion (chopped), and 1/8 cup low-sodium chicken broth and cook an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare ½ cup quick-cooking grits according to package instructions and stir in 1 tsp. butter and a pinch of salt (less than 5 minutes in the microwave). Serve with shrimp.

Egg Substitutions Chart

This is a super helpful chart from a website if you either are missing eggs or don't want them!
http://chefinyou.com/egg-substitutes-cooking/

Egg Substitutions

1 Whole Egg = 2 Egg whites

Replacement In

With Ingredients like

How to Replace

BrowniesSilken Tofu/ Tofu( 1/4 cup blended silken tofu = 1 egg )Process in a blender until completely smooth and creamy, leaving no graininess
or chunks. You will want to attach other wet ingredients to this mixture to
return with it to blend properly.
Applesauce(1/3 cup applesauce = 1 egg or ¼ cup Applesauce + 1 tsp Baking Powder )If chocolate in the brownies overpowers the flavor of applesauce so it can be safely used, and is in fact, one of the
best egg substitute in brownie mix.
Soy Yogurt/Plain Yogurt( ¼ cup Yogurt= 1 EGG )If you are a vegan, you may opt for soy yogurt. Otherwise plain yogurt will do
the trick. Just beat it well and add it to the brownie mix.
Flax seeds(1 tbsp ground Flax seeds +3 tbsp Water =1 eggGrind the flax seeds in a coffee grinder, and mix with water. Allow it to rest till it becomes gelatinous, then use.
Bananas(½ pureed Banana, abt 1/4 cup = 1 egg)Just mash it smooth, and use it but the addition of banana will alter the flavor of the brownies
Commercial Egg SubstituteUse
as per instructions on pack. Many people who have used this find it to leave behind a peculiar taste. However, there have been exceptions to this case.
Breads Bananas
(½ pureed Banana, abt 1/4 cup = 1 egg)
Recipes: Banana Blueberry Bread
Soy yogurt(1/4 cup soy yogurt = 1egg)Soy yogurt works deeply like whiz tofu as an egg replacer.Helps to make it moist
Water(one egg with 1/4 cup water.Recipe:Vegan Banana Nut Bread
Flax seeds(1 tbsp ground Flax seeds +3 tbsp Water =1 eggAdding ground flax seeds to any recipe add Omega-3′s to the recipe! You can buy ground flax seeds in the health section of most grocery stores.
Recipe: Whole Wheat Honey Walnut Pumpkin Bread
Cakes
(eggs mostly serve as leavening agents in cakes, helping to make the end product light and fluffy)
Applesauce
(1/3 cup applesauce = 1 egg or ¼ cup Applesauce + 1 tsp Baking Powder )
Bananas
(½ pureed Banana, abt 1/4 cup = 1 egg)
Recipe: Wholegrain Banana Cake
Soy yogurt/Yogurt(1/4 cup soy yogurt = 1 egg)Soy yogurt works deeply like whiz tofu as an egg replacer. It makes things moist.
Recipes: Blueberry Boy Bait; Strawberry Yogurt Cake
Water(one egg with 1/4 cup water.)
Vegetable Oil(1/4 cup = 1 egg)Recipes: Banana Cupcake
ButtermilkButtermilk is one of the preferred egg substitute used for eggless cake recipes. What you need to do is add half a cup of buttermilk (instead of one egg) and follow the same directions as you did for baking regular cakes. The only thing is to add less amount of water for making the dough. With buttermilk, the resultant cake will be very soft and tasty.
Pureed Fruits(3 tablespoons of pureed fruit = one egg )In cases when you don’t like using eggs and buttermilk in cakes then a good egg substitute for baking cakes is, adding pureed fruits. Use 3 tablespoons of pureed banana (for one egg) and follow the same tips for baking cake. Even
without eggs, you will surely serve a soft and delicious cake with pureed fruits.
Gelatin (Non Vegetarian)(1 tablespoon gelatin + 3 tablespoons lukewarm water = 1 egg)Another popularly used egg substitute in baking is unsweetened and unflavored gelatin. Most vegetarians prefer adding Agar Agar instead of Gelatin as a substitute in cake, instead of the other options. For using gelatin in baking cake, mix together one tablespoon gelatin with three tablespoons lukewarm water. Add this mixture for making the cake dough.
Flaxseed(1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil+ 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg)Stir the flaxseed mixture well and allow it to thicken for a few minutes. Strain the seeds by using a muslin cloth and use the filtrate for baking cake.
Vinegar and Baking PowderUse this egg substitute in cake, only when you require more than one egg for baking. Mix one tablespoon each of white vinegar and water in a glass. To this, add one teaspoon of baking powder and stir well until
the mixture blends well. Now, use this egg substitute for your cake recipe.
Potato Starch(2 heaped tbsp potato starch = 1 egg)
Arrowroot Powder(2 heaped tbsp arrowroot powder = 1 egg)
Soy flour(1 heaping tablespoon of soy flour + 2 tbsp water = 1egg)
Soda PopA regular-sized (12 oz.) can of soda pop can be used as a substitution for 3 eggs in your baking recipes. Additionally, one regular-sized (12 oz.) can of soda pop can be substituted for the oil/egg combo
required by most boxed cake mixes.
Cookies
(eggs mostly act as binding agents in cookies and adding moisture)
Vegetable Oil(1/4 cup = 1 egg)
Cornstarch(1 tablespoon of Cornstarch + 2 Tablespoons of Water = 1 egg)
Soy flour(1 heaping tablespoon of soy flour + 2 tbsp water = 1 egg)
Ener-G Egg Replacer(follow package instructions)It seems to work best surrounded by cookies, or things that are supposed to be a little crispy.Otherwise, there have been complaints that it tends to add certain aftertaste noticeable more in other bakes like a chalky taste.
Muffins
(eggs mostly act as binding agents in Muffins and adding moisture )
Applesauce(1/3 cup applesauce = 1 egg or ¼ cup Applesauce + 1 tsp Baking Powder )
Pumpkin(1/3 cup of cooked pumpkin = 1 egg)This works almost for all baked goods but especially for muffins leaving a subtle Pumpkin flavor in the muffins (depending upon the eggs substituted)
Soy yogurt/Yogurt(1/4 cup soy yogurt = 1 egg)Soy yogurt works deeply like whiz tofu as an egg replacer. It makes things moist
Recipes: Cranberry Walnut Muffins
Water(one egg with 1/4 cup water.
Vegetable Oil(1/4 cup = 1 egg)
Soy flour
(1 heaping tablespoon of soy flour + 2 tbsp water = 1 egg)
Banana(½ pureed Banana, abt 1/4 cup = 1 egg)Recipe:Strawberry Banana Quinoa Muffins
Flaxseed(1 tbsp ground Flax seeds + 3 tbsp Water = 1 egg)Recipes: Vegan Pear Walnut Muffins
Pancakes Flax seeds(1 tbsp ground Flax seeds + 3 tbsp Water = 1 eggAdding ground flax seeds to any recipe add Omega-3′s to the recipe! You can buy ground flax seeds in the health section of most grocery stores.
Soy flour
(1 heaping tablespoon of soy flour + 2 tbsp water = 1 egg)
Banana(½ pureed Banana, abt 1/4 cup = 1 egg)
Savory Dishes(as binders/ coating) Mashed PotatoesWhen a recipe in any savory dish like Vegetable Loaves or
Burgers calls for eggs as a binding agent, then any of these will work as an substitute for eggs. When used for Frying (as an coating of eggs and flour), you can use a mix of all purpose flour + water to form into a paste and apply that as coating instead of beaten eggs.
Bread Crumbs
Cooked Oatmeal
Cooked Rice
Tomato Paste
Chocolate pies, Quiches, pudding TofuTofu is great for egg substitutions in recipes that call for a lot of egg. To substitute for only one egg in a recipe, whip or blend 1/4 cup soft tofu and add to your cooking.
Salads/ Sandwiches/OmeletTofuDiced or mashed tofu can replace chopped hard-boiled eggs in some salad and sandwich recipes. Scrambled tofu makes a delicious alternative to scrambled eggs.

May 1, 2012

Veggie Sandwich Supreme


2 1/2 cups sprouted garbanzo beans (chickpeas) OR canned garbanzos, drained and rinsed
4 large eggs
1/2 tsp. fine-grain sea salt
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup onion, chopped (red or green onion preferable)                                                                                                      

1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 tsp. lime zest
1 cup toasted (whole-grain) bread crumbs
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
If you are using sprouted garbanzos, steam them until just tender, about 10 minutes. Most of you will be using canned beans, so jump right in and combine the garbanzos, eggs, and salt in a food processor. Puree until the mixture is the consistency of a very thick, slightly chunky hummus. Pour into a mixing bowl and stir in the cilantro, onion, pepper, and zest. Add the breadcrumbs, stir, and let sit for a couple of minutes so the crumbs can absorb some of the moisture. At this point, you should have a moist mixture that you can easily form into twelve 1 1/2-inch-thick patties. You can always add more bread crumbs a bit at a time to firm up the dough if need be. Conversely, a bit of water or more egg can be used to moisten the batter.Heat the oil in a heavy skillet over medium low, add 4 patties, cover, and cook for 7 to 10 minutes, until the bottoms begin to brown. Turn up the heat if there is no browning after 10 minutes. Flip the patties and cook the second side for 7 minutes, or until golden. Remove from the skillet and cool on a wire rack while you cook the remaining patties. Carefully cut each patty in half, insert your favorite fillings, and enjoy immediately.
Makes 12 mini burgers.
http://www.101cookbooks.com

I LOVED mine with thinly sliced avacados, tomatoes, cucumbers as well as sprouts, spinach leaf and I toasted a piece of bread and used a cup to cut it into a round piece of toast and put that in the center with a piece of monterey jack cheese.  Sprinkle some freshly ground pepper and sea salt on top of the tomato and enjoy

Apr 30, 2012

Greek Salad

This is a family favorite and so fresh tasting. We just realized it wasn't on here, so I'm putting it on, but you can play with the amounts as desired. Just chop everything into bite-sized pieces.

Onions (love red onions best)
Peppers (colorful is best)
Cucumber
Tomatoes
Olives (opt.)
Feta cheese!

splash apple cider vinegar
splash extra-virgin olive oil
small dash garlic powder
dash salt

Throw everything together. :) Best eaten sooner than later.

Apr 18, 2012

New Food Adventures: Barley

So, who has had barley before? In something other than a soup....?

Well, here's a simple breakdown of some nutritional information and then some basic ways to try adding it into your typical meals.

Benefits:
When it comes to choosing high-fiber grains, barley is a winner. Why? Because even if it is refined and processed (ie: pearl barley, barely flakes or barley flour), it is one grain that has fiber found in all parts of the grain, regardless of whether or not the bran layer is removed.

And fiber will help regulate all sorts of things to begin helping your body take care of itself better....

A 1/2-cup serving of pearl barley contains 3 grams of fiber. In comparison, a 1/2-cup serving of brown rice contains 1.75 grams of fiber, and a 1/2-cup serving of white rice contains less that one gram of fiber. Here is a Fiber chart comparison for you visual folk out there.
Food Fiber Content in Grams
Oatmeal, 1 cup 3.98
Whole wheat bread, 1 slice 2
Whole wheat spaghetti, 1 cup 6.3
Brown rice, 1 cup 3.5
Barley, 1 cup 13.6
Buckwheat, 1 cup 4.54
Rye, 1/3 cup 8.22
Corn, 1 cup 4.6
Apple, 1 medium with skin 5.0
Banana, 1 medium 4.0
Blueberries, 1 cup 3.92
Orange, 1 large 4.42
Pear, 1 large 5.02
Prunes, 1/4 cup 3.02
Strawberries, 1 cup 3.82
Raspberries, 1 cup 8.36

It's also a very good source of fiber and selenium, and a good source of phosphorus, copper and manganese.
Eating/Cooking Barley:
Honestly, it's so versatile, you can substitute it for lots of things, but the best way for me is to cook it in chicken broth and add a touch of butter at the end (with parmesan is delicious too!). I pressure cook it because it does take a long time to cook and I forget to presoak it overnight (like you would dry beans).


To cook pearl barley: In medium saucepan with lid, bring 3 cups water to a boil. Add 1 cup pearl barley and return to boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook 45 minutes or until barley is tender and liquid is absorbed. Makes about 3 to 3-1/2 cups.
In a crock pot or slow cooker: Place 2-1/2 cups boiling water, 1 cup pearl barley and 1/2 teaspoon salt in crock pot or slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
To cook whole grain ("hulled"/"Hullless") barley kernels: In medium saucepan with lid, bring 3 cups water to a boil. Add 1 cup whole grain barley kernels and return to boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook about 50 to 55 minutes. Makes about 3 cups. 

Note: Because whole grain barley retains most of the outer bran layer, the kernels tend to absorb less liquid during the cooking process. It may be necessary to pour off any remaining liquid after 50 to 55 minutes of cooking time. Compared to pearl barley, whole grain barley tends to be chewier in texture and produces a more robust flavor.

And, like other grains, it's best to store in the fridge or freeze to best maintain the grain's nutrients.

Other ideas:

• Cook up a batch of pearl barley and add to prepared soups, stews, casseroles and salads for an extra shot of flavor, texture and fiber.
• For a heart-healthy change of pace, serve your favorite stir-fry, stroganoff or curry over a bed of steaming hot pearl barley.


here's a website with tons of barley recipes to try: http://www.barleyfoods.org/recipes.html

Honey Lime Fruit Salad

Here is an easy way to just add a nice fresh "zing" to fruit without all the loaded down whip cream and other unnecessaries.... And really, any fruit will do, but this an example

The fresh kicker:
Zest from one lime, (about 1 T)
2 T honey
1 t. poppy seeds (opt.)


Add any fruit you like:
pineapple
oranges
kiwi
grapes
strawberries
bananas
...etc.
Combine the fruit in a medium-large serving bowl. Add the lime zest and poppy seeds, if using, and gently toss. Drizzle the honey over the fruit and again, gently mix until the fruit is evenly coated with the honey. Serve.

Similar to two of our favorites:
Charise's Fruit Salad
Coconut Cinnamon Fruit Salad



*Note: This fruit salad is best served right away (or at least within an hour of making) because the strawberries tend to stain the light colored fruit. It doesn’t affect the taste at all but is a slight bummer for presentation.  And this was adapted from www.sixsistersstuff.com.

Cinnamon Coconut Fruit Salad


Super simple salad, without extras...

bananas
oranges
a little orange juice (just squeeze a few slices)
coconut
cinnamon

That's it. Mix it all together. Nothing fantastically over-the-top, but a great healthy good variation to brighter your table and tastebuds.

Apr 6, 2012

Mac-Quinoa N' Cheese

This is a great base casserole recipe. I like it as it is, with peas and topped with taco sauce. Or with corn and beans with chili powder and stuff for a more Southwestern flare. The eggs and cheese really help, so don't omit those.

1 1/2 c quinoa, rinsed and drained
Veggies of your choice (optional)
good pinch of salt
a few grinds of seasoning salt
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
1 c milk
1 1/2 c grated Cheddar cheese (more for MAc-type, less for simple casserole)
Optional- Crushed Red Pepper, Panko Bread crumbs for topping
Toppings (optional)- salsa, hot sauce, sour cream, scallions
1. Lightly saute any veggies you would like in this dish. (unless throwing in corn or peas, etc.)
2.Cook quinoa to packaged instructions until fully cooked (in chicken broth if desired, but not essential).
3. Preheat oven to 350 F. Coat 13x9 inch dish( or 8 individual ramekins) with cooking spray.Whisk together eggs and milk in large bowl. Fold in quinoa mixture and cheese. Stir very well and let some of the cheese melt. Transfer to prepared baking dish and if using Panko Crumbs or Bread crumbs add now and bake 30-35 mins, until bread crumbs are browned.

I normally like to do it in my cast iron skillet.

The two most basic variations I like...
Southwestern: 1 c cheese only. Black beans, corn, cumin or chili powder and topped with salsa or sour cream
Mac N' Cheese: full amt of cheese plus more for top if desired with peas (or other veggie). Topped with taco sauce.



Gyro Pita Sandwiches

So this is a family favorite and I'm sure we may do slight things differently, but I realize it's not on here, so I'm typing the basic idea up. You play with portions, because it's a sandwich and isn't picky when it comes to that.

Pita Pockets
Lamb (I use pork semi-thawed so I can slice into super thin strips before it gets too difficult to do that)
colorful peppers, chopped
tomatoes, diced
onions, chopped (white, purple, green, w/e your preference)
English Cumcumbers (or the cheap kind, but those you for sure have to peel first)
plain yourt and/or sour cream (I do hald and half)
garlic
salt
olive oil
greek seasoning (we use the yellow cylinder and it's a great meat flavoring for other things, so you'll use it. Or you can try homemade if you want--I haven't yet)

1. Slice up meat and cook it in some oil with lots of greek seasoning, until done.
2. Make Tzatziki Sauce: Cut cumcumbers in half and deseed. Then shred and squeeze out excess water. Add salt and let sit for at least a half hour to keep getting the excess water out. Frequently squeeze and drain. Then add sour cream/yogurt and a dash of garlic powder. I usually do about 2 cups with about 1 cucumber per cup (so 2 total). But more or less if fine. Add a dash or olive oil if desired.
3. Cut up other veggies and place them in seperate bowls so people can compile their own sandwiches as desired.
4. Warm up pita pockets right before stuffing. My mom puts a little oil in a pan and warms them up in it with some extra greek seasoning--heavenly, but a little more work if you're up to it.
5. Stuff to heart's content. Typically meat first, then veggies, then tzatziki sauce--plenty (that makes it!).

---
Typical Greek Flavors: oregano, mint, thyme, basil, marjoram, onion, garlic
see post of ethnic flavors: http://2nourishyourbody.blogspot.com/2010/11/list-of-ethnic-flavors-which-herbs-are.html

Perfect Pocket Pitas--with little effort!

Holy Cow! I cannot tell you how awesomely these pitas puffed up into a pocket! I mean look...this is my photo.... Wow! I can't say it's the best flavor to eat the next day, because it's not super soft and pliable like most store-bought white flour things would be--but it's not bad, not bad at all!

After I made these I just had to call someone over to share it with. But alas, hubby at work late and neighbor MIA (busy away from home). So...I ate this--no, savored it as a gyro. Soooo yummy, I finally think I made it like my Mom (but with homemade pitas this time).

So it's super easy! Just use the no-knead recipe! If you're familiar with it, just use this summary from that post I pasted here:
Pita
--
Fist size, 1/8”
0
500
5-7
Stone
no
keep cooked pitas in towel
Here's the post: http://2nourishyourbody.blogspot.com/2011/06/simple-artisan-bread-in-five-minutes.html

If you're not, you should read the post anyway, but here's a summary of the basic idea:

Base Recipe (I'd 1/4 or 1/2 the recipe if you just want to make a few)
3 c. warm water
1 1/2 T yeast (I only use 1 T, which is fine for longer dough raising)
1 1/2 T salt (not needed: I only use 1 T)
6 1/2 c. flour (I use half white, half wheat and 1T of vital wheat gluten per cup wheat flour)
opt. flax seeds, ground (I used about 1/4 to 1/2 cup and maybe took out a tid bit of flour)

Mix it all together in large glass or ceramic bowl and cover with towel. Let sit for up to 12 hours. Then preheat oven to 500 and take out fist sizes of dough and roll 1/8th in. thin circles. Place on hot stone and cook 5-7 minutes until puffed to perfection. When you take them out, leave them in a towel in the microwave, to keep them moist and soft and warm. Then cut and stuff!

Now try our gyros recipe!

Apr 4, 2012

Garlic Parmesan Kale Salad

This salad sounds super simple and nothing great, but everyone has loved it. And it's a great way to get in a powerhouse of a veggie like kale, and to change things up a bit with your salad routine.


1 bunch fresh kale (sliced in super small tiny strips)
2 slices country bread toasted & fine crumbs in blender
1 garlic clove minced      1/4 salt     3 T olive oil
1/4 fresh parmesan cheese grated
1/4 c fresh lemon juice
black pepper & red pepper flakes to taste

Put thinly sliced kale in a bowl.
Combine ingredients, except crumbs, and mix into kale thoroughly.
Let that sit for few minutes and then add crumbs at last minute on top.


yes...those are chex from the bottom of the cereal box,
because I was out of breadcrumbs and it still tasted great.

*Mom loves this salad and said she got it from our cousin Lindsay.

Mar 13, 2012

Sausage n' Kale Fettuccine

This is a super simple easy way to make and eat pasta with boosted nutrition from the kale--if you're looking for a recipe to try out kale on.

3 T olive oil
1 lb ground sausage
1/2 lb kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
1/2 lb fettuccine
2/3 c chicken broth
1/2 c Parmesan or Feta Cheese
1 c mushrooms, chopped (opt.)

  
Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then cook sausage, breaking up any lumps with a spoon, until browned, 5 to 7 minutes.

Meanwhile, blanch kale in a 6-quart pot of boiling salted water, uncovered, 5 minutes.
Remove kale with a large sieve and set aside, but keep the water in the pot--to preserve nutrients fro kale.

Return cooking water in pot to a boil, then cook pasta in boiling water, uncovered, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta-cooking water, then drain pasta in a colander.
While pasta cooks, add kale to sausage in skillet and sauté, stirring frequently, until just tender, about 5 minutes. (add mushrooms to sautee too, if desired)

Add broth, stirring and scraping up any brown bits from bottom of skillet, then add pasta and 1/2 cup reserved cooking water to skillet, tossing until combined.

Stir in cheese and thin with additional cooking water if desired.

**I love eating this with the mushrooms, but some may not like mushrooms. This is a simple dish, but you could add milk with chicken buillon at the end, instead of the chicken broth, if you want more of a creamy feel. Or even cerate a white sauce on the side and then add that in....it'd be great that way too, but it's so simple if you need a quick nutritional pasta dish that's more than just noodles and cream sauce. 
*originally from epicurious.com

Charise's FAVORITE Fruit Salad

3 c Honeydew melon, small chunks
1 c Marion berries (frozen- sold at Costco)
1 c Strawberries (frozen or fresh)
1/2 c Apples, peeled and diced
1/2 c Blueberries
1/2 c Grapes
1 c Plain Yogurt or Kefir

Sauce:  1 orange- juiced,  1/2 cup rapadura (organic whole cane sugar), and 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract. 

I blend the freshly juiced orange and the rapadura (brown sugar) together over med. heat until the sugar dissolves completely--or just use maple syrup as a substitute.  I then add the vanilla after taking it off the heat.  Cool completely if the fruit is all thawed out.  If you still have frozen fruit, I pour the warm sauce over it and stir the fruit and sauce all together.  Right before serving, add 1 cup of a good rich plain yogurt or Kefir and stir it all together.  DELICIOUS and healthy fruit salad...here I come!


Chicken Cordon Blue Casserole

6-8 Chicken Breasts, washed and pat dry
1 pkg. Bacon, fried and crumbled
3 cups Rice, cooked
1 lg. Yellow Onion, diced
3 stalks Celery
1 1/2 cups mozzarella
2 cups Spaghetti Sauce
Garlic & Herb bread crumbs
1 Egg
Salt
Pepper

After cooking the bacon, remove bacon slices to a paper towel and crumble it.  Set aside.
Sautee the onions and celery in about 1/2 the bacon fat.  Set aside. 
Beat the egg and drench each chicken breast in the egg followed by the bread crumbs.  Set aside.
Combine the vegetable, rice, cheese, crumbled bacon pieces and salt and pepper.  Spread mixture into a 9x13" casserole dish and place chicken on top.  Spread the Spaghetti Sauce all over the top of the chicken and rice combination.  Bake at 350 for about 30 minutes. 

Recipe by: Charise Cooley 







Mar 12, 2012

New Food Adventure: Kale

Kale is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family, a group of vegetables including cabbage, collards, and Brussels sprouts.

There are several varieties of kale; these include curly kale, ornamental kale, and dinosaur (or Lacinato or Tuscan) kale, all of which differ in taste, texture, and appearance. The scientific name for kale is Brassica oleracea.

Curly kale has ruffled leaves and a fibrous stalk and is usually deep green in color. It has a lively pungent flavor with delicious bitter peppery qualities.

Ornamental kale is a more recently cultivated species that is oftentimes referred to as salad savoy. Its leaves may either be green, white, or purple and its stalks coalesce to form a loosely knit head. Ornamental kale has a more mellow flavor and tender texture.

Dinosaur kale is the common name for the kale variety known as Lacinato or Tuscan kale. It features dark blue-green leaves that have an embossed texture. It has a slightly sweeter and more delicate taste than curly kale.


It's nutrient richness stands out in three particular areas: (mostly vitamins K, A, and C)
(1) antioxidant nutrients
(2) anti-inflammatory nutrients
(3) anti-cancer nutrients


Recommendations
You'll want to include kale as one of the cruciferous vegetables you eat on a regular basis if you want to receive the fantastic health benefits provided by the cruciferous vegetable family. At a minimum, include cruciferous vegetables as part of your diet 2-3 times per week, and make the serving size at least 1-1/2 cups. Even better from a health standpoint, enjoy kale and other vegetables from the cruciferous vegetable group 4-5 times per week, and increase your serving size to 2 cups.

Kale is one of the healthiest vegetables around and one way to be sure to enjoy the maximum nutrition and flavor from kale is to cook it properly. We recommend Healthy Steaming kale for 5 minutes. To ensure quick and even cooking cut the leaves into 1/2" slices and the stems into 1/4" lengths. Let them sit for at least 5 minutes to enhance their health-promoting qualities before steaming. See our Healthiest Way of Cooking Kale in the How to Enjoy section below.




Nutrient%Daily Value

vitamin K1327.6%

vitamin A354.1%

vitamin C88.8%

manganese27%

fiber10.4%

copper10%

tryptophan9.3%

calcium9.3%

potassium8.4%

iron6.5%

magnesium5.8%

vitamin E5.5%

omega-3 fats5.4%

vitamin B25.2%

protein4.9%

vitamin B14.6%

folate4.2%

phosphorus3.6%

vitamin B33.2%

Calories (36)2%

Tips for Preparing Kale
Rinse kale leaves under cold running water. Chop leaf portion into 1/2" slices and the stems into 1/4" lengths for quick and even cooking.

To get the most health benefits from kale, let sit for a minimum of 5 minutes before cooking. Sprinkling with lemon juice before letting them sit can further enhance its beneficial phytonutrient concentration.

Cooking: Best to Steam Kale
Kale can provide you with some special cholesterol-lowering benefits if you will cook it by steaming. The fiber-related components in kale do a better job of binding together with bile acids in your digestive tract when they've been steamed. When this binding process takes place, it's easier for bile acids to be excreted, and the result is a lowering of your cholesterol levels. Raw kale still has cholesterol-lowering ability--just not as much.

A Few Quick Serving Ideas
  • Braise chopped kale and apples. Before serving, sprinkle with balsamic vinegar and chopped walnuts.
  • Combine chopped kale, pine nuts, and feta cheese with whole grain pasta drizzled with olive oil.
**Or try our recipes:
Zuppa Tuscana soup
Sausage Kale Fettuccine (my favorite--I also like it with lemon chicken in place of sausage)
Spicy Parmesan Green Beans and Kale
Garlic Parmesan Kale Salad
Kale Slaw

*info from WHfood.com

Salad Greens Nutritional Comparison

Ever wondered which greens are really more "green" and optimal for boosting your nutrition? Or ever tried kale or swiss chard?

First let's look at the basic lettuce types, then we'll delve into other "Greens" that are more powerhouses.

As a general rule, the darker green the leaves, the greater the nutritional value of lettuce.
The result in compating the greens is that iceberg gives you squat in comparison to other types of lettuce, so go have fun and try other greens. Mix it up a bit. :)

Nutritional Comparison of Salad Greens Based on a 1 Cup Serving
Salad Greens Calories Vit A (IU) Vit C(Mg) Calcium (Mg) Potassium (Mg)
Romaine 8 1456 13 20 65
Leaf Lettuce 10 1064 10 38 148
Butterhead (Bib and Boston) 7 534 4 18 141
Arugula 5 480 3 32 74
Mixed Greens 9 1495 9 30 174
Baby Spinach 7 1200 8 20 –
Iceberg 7 182 2 10 87


Now let's discover more about other real DARK Greens that are huge boosts:
Dark leafy greens are rich in vitamins A (from beta-carotene) and vitamin C, they are also good sources of calcium and and magnesium, iron, and folic acid. Greens also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which are believed to help protect against cataracts and macular degeneration.
(So don't throw away some of these if you can find ways to cook/eat them...)

Collard Greens
One of the milder of the sturdy greens, collards are an excellent source of folate, vitamin C and beta-carotene. Collards are especially high in calcium.

Bok Choy
Bok Choy is a Chinese variety of cabbages. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, beta-carotene and iron, as well as a good source of folate, vitamin B6 and calcium. Avoid buying bok choy that has brown spots on it, because it indicates some flavor has been lost.

Kale
While sweet following a light frost, kale generally has a stronger flavor than collard greens and can be quite coarse and peppery when raw. To ensure a milder texture and flavor, choose smaller kale leaves and cook them until tender. In addition to being an excellent source of vitamin C and beta-carotene, kale is also a good source of iron, vitamin B6, lutein and zeaxanthin.

Mustard Greens
Mustard greens have an even stronger flavor than kale, but milder varieties are grown in Asia and are sometimes available in the United States. They taste best when they are six to 12-inches long and have no seeds.

Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is an excellent source of vitamin E, a nutrient that is usually only found in high-fat foods. It is also high in potassium, magnesium, vitamin C and beta-carotene. To preserve its crispness and sweetness, be sure to keep it chilled.

Spinach
Spinach is mild enough to be enjoyed both raw and cooked and contains carotenoids such as beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Besides carotenoids, spinach is higher in folate than other greens. Cooking the spinach with a small amount of fat, such as olive oil, will enhance the availability of these nutrients.

Beat Greens
Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, iron and calcium, beet greens are often more nutritious than beets (with one exception: Beets are higher in folate). They are best for eating when young and tender.

Turnip Greens
The leafy tops of turnips are one of the bitterest greens available, so they are not often eaten raw. Like beet greens, they are best for eating when they are quite young. Although both turnips and turnip greens are nutritious, the best source of vitamins and minerals is the greens, which are high in vitamin C, beta-carotene and folate.


*greens info from bellybytes.com

Bell Peppers: Nutritional Value

Bell Peppers are members of the nightshade family, which also includes potatoes, tomatoes and eggplant.

Sweet peppers are plump, bell-shaped vegetables featuring either three or four lobes.
Green and purple peppers have a slightly bitter flavor, while the red, orange and yellows are sweeter and almost fruity. But the longer they can ripen on the vine, the more antioxidants they will have (many green bell peppers you buy at the store are picked early and may have turned into another color if they had been left to ripen longer on the vine).

But as with anything cooked with heat, nutritional value starts to decline as you cook it. So raw is best, but you'll still get

Although peppers are available throughout the year, they are most abundant and tasty during the summer and early fall months.

The bell pepper is an excellent source of anitoxidants, including cartenoids, vitamin C and vitamin E. The level of vitamin C is at 117 milligrams per cup. (That's more than twice the amount of vitamin C found in a typical orange.)
Nutrients in 1 cup, raw bell pepper%Daily Value
vitamin C195.8%
vitamin A57.6%
vitamin B613.5%
folate10.5%
fiber7.4%
vitamin E7.2%
molybdenum6.1%
vitamin K5.6%
potassium5.5%
manganese5%
vitamin B24.7%
vitamin B34.5%
vitamin B13.3%
tryptophan3.1%
vitamin B52.8%
magnesium2.7%


A Few Quick Serving Ideas
  • Add finely chopped bell peppers to tuna or chicken salad.
  • After Healthy Sautéeing chopped peppers, celery and onions, combine with tofu, chicken or seafood to make a simple Louisiana Creole dish.
  • Purée roasted and peeled peppers with Healthy Sautéed onions and zucchini to make a deliciously refreshing soup that can be served hot or cold.
  • Bell peppers are one of the best vegetables to serve in a crudité platter since not only do they add a brilliant splash of color, but their texture is also the perfect crunchy complement for dips.
Or try our feta stuffed peppers--very simple


*nutritional info from whfoods.com

Mar 1, 2012

English Muffin Bread


So I think this recipe tastes really similar to English Muffins (and this is the third recipe I've tried).

This recipe is pretty much the Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes recipe, which I adore and use constantly--but this one has my own tweaks and the porportions vary slightly.

However, the best part is that I rarely measure the yeast and salt exactly and it comes out fine still--same with Artisan bread. And there's no kneading or real effort involved at all. Just mix and let sit.

2 3/4 c warm water
1 1/2 T
yeast
1 T salt
1 1/2 T sugar
5 1/2 c flour (I use half white, half wheat and add 3 T vital wheat gluten also for fluffiness)

1. Mix all altogether and let rise in bowl until double. (I wait a few hours, but it varies)
2. Divide into 2 greased loaf pans and let rise until dough reaches the top of the pan.
3. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes (golden brown).
4. Brush top with butter when you pull it out, if desired. And let cool.

-----
The best way to eat this is to toast it and use it for one of the following...or other:
- egg muffins on it
- butter/jam
- tuna/crab/chicken cheese melt
- garlic salt/buttered! (great addition to soups and main courses)

*from Shelley