Diabetic Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

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Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Wednesday Recipes

Here are today's six recipes to help you through the day, including Mediterranean-Style Chicken Salad and Apple Zucchini Crisp. Enjoy!

SPICY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP

This recipe begins, “This silky-smooth butternut soup gets a hit of spice from chipotle, cloves and cumin. Adapted from Chef Jesús González, Chef of La Cocina Que Canta at Rancho La Puerta.”

Time: 80 minutes (45 minutes prep)

This is from Diabetic Connect

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds (1 small to medium) butternut or other winter squash

1 teaspoon canola oil

2 stalks celery , chopped

1 small onion, diced

1 carrot , chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4-1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle chile (see Tip)

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

6 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/2 cup nonfat plain yogurt

2 tablespoons snipped fresh chives or chopped parsley

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cut squash in half and seed. Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut-side down. Bake until tender when pierced with a knife, 45 minutes to 1 hour. Scoop out flesh when cool enough to handle.

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add celery, onion and carrot and stir to coat. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently, until soft, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the squash flesh, cumin, chipotle to taste and cloves. Add broth and simmer, covered, until the vegetables are very tender, 20 to 25 minutes.

Puree the soup with an immersion blender or a regular blender (in batches) until smooth. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids.) Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with a drizzle of yogurt and sprinkle of chives (or parsley).

Tip: Chipotle peppers are dried, smoked jalapeño peppers. Ground chipotle can be found in the specialty-spice section of most supermarkets or online at penzeys.com.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 6; Serving Size: about 1 1/4 cups; Calories: 91; Carbohydrates: 17 g; Fat: 2 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Protein: 3 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Potassium: 354 mg; Sodium: 694 mg

PENNE ALLA PESTO

Prep Time: 15 Minutes - Cost: $

Servings: 4 - Difficulty Level: 2

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/194.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups fresh basil, stems removed

2 cloves garlic, chopped

2 tbsp olive oil

1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted

2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese

3/4 lb. cooked penne, hot

Directions

Wash and dry basil. Place basil in a blender or food processor with garlic, olive oil, pine nuts, cheese and pepper to taste; purée.

Transfer cooked penne to a serving bowl. Add pesto and toss thoroughly to serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 209; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 13 g; Sodium: 66 mg; Cholesterol: 2 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Exchanges: 2-1/2 Fat; 2-1/2 Starch

SMOKY CHEESE DIP

Yield: 16 servings (2 tablespoons per serving)

Source: "The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible"

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/11.shtml

Print: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/662.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup fat-free cream cheese

1 cup fat-free sour cream

1/2 cup fat-free mayonnaise

1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded Cheddar cheese

1/2 cup cooked crumbled low-fat turkey sausage

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke flavoring

2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions

In a food processor, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Process until smooth. Fold in by hand the remaining ingredients. Serve with crackers or pita bread.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (2 tablespoons): Calories: 50, Fat: 1 g, Cholesterol: 7 mg, Sodium: 224 mg, Carbohydrate: 5 g, Dietary Fiber: 0 g, Sugars: 2 g, Protein: 5 g, Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Carbohydrate

MEAT MARINARA SAUCE

Yield: 10 Servings

Serving size: 1/2 cup

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=690

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/690.shtml

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil

3/4 cup fresh chopped onion , chopped

1/4 tsp garlic powder

3/4 cup sliced green bell peppers, chopped

30 ounces whole-canned unsalted tomatoes, 2-15 ounce cans

30 ounces no-salt tomato sauce , 2-15 ounce cans

2 bay leaves

1 tsp dried basil

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp ground thyme

1 pound 90% lean ground beef or ground turkey

Directions

Heat oil in sauce pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic powder, and green pepper to oil. Cover and heat 2 minutes, stirring occassionally.

Mash tomatoes into small pieces and stir into tomato sauce.

Add spices and tomato mixture to sauce pan. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer.

Brown beef or turkey in skillet. Place in a colander or strainer.

Bring a tea kettle full or 3 quart sauce pan of water to a rapid boil. Place colander over a large bowl and pour boiling water over the meat to remove excess grease.

Add meat to tomato sauce mixture and continue to simmer another 20 minutes on medium heat.

Remove bay leaves and serve over pasta or rice.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 225; Protein: 14 g; Fat: 8.5 g; Sodium: 67 mg; Saturated Fat: 2.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g; Exchanges: 3/4 Fat, 1-1/2 Meat, 4-1/2 Vegetable

APPLE ZUCCHINI CRISP

This recipe begins, “Your favorite apples and garden-fresh zucchini become a low-carb dessert that will have your family clamoring for seconds.”

This is from Diabetic Connect.

Click here to view this online.

Ingredients

1 cup apples, peeled and thinly sliced

2 cups zucchini, peeled, halved and thinly sliced

1/4 cup Splenda brown sugar

2 tsp cinnamon, divided

a pinch of nutmeg

3 TBL lemon juice

1/3 cup almond meal

1/3 cup sliced almonds

1/3 cup chopped pecans

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 cup butter, melted

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Toss the apples, zucchini, 1 tsp of cinnamon and the lemon juice together.

Pour into an 8x8 inch baking dish.

Mix the brown sugar, remaining 1 tsp of cinnamon, nutmeg, almond meal, almonds and pecans together.

Stir the vanilla in with the melted butter and pour over the nut mixture. Mix well.

Crumble the nut mixture evenly over the apples and zucchini.

Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.

Top with whipped cream if desired.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 9; Calories: 156; Total Fat: 12 g; Saturated Fat: 3.8 g; Trans Fat: 0 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Protein: 2.5 g; Sodium: 4.25 mg; Dietary Fiber: 2 g

MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE CHICKEN SALAD

Makes 4 servings.

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=697

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/697.shtml

Ingredients

3/4 pound baked or grilled chicken breasts

2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp. dried oregano

Juice of 1/2 a lemon

1 2.2-ounce can (1/2 cup) black olives, pitted and roughly chopped

1 Tbsp. tiny capers, well-rinsed and drained

10 cherry tomatoes, halved

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup thin green beans, cooked, drained, and cooled

Romaine lettuce leaves, for serving bed (whole wheat pita bread for sandwiches optional)

2 Tbsp. chopped parsley

Directions

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place in a bowl and combine with oil, oregano and lemon juice. Let stand for about 1 hour.

Toss the chicken mix with olives, capers, tomatoes and green beans. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Arrange the salad on the romaine leaves. Sprinkle with parsley and serve. This recipe would also work on whole-wheat pita bread.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 240; Protein: 27 g; Fat: 12 g; Sodium: 280 mg; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 6 g

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Chicken!

Tuesday - the unofficial "Monday" after a three-day weekend. Here are six diabetic chicken recipes to help you through the day, including Chicken Ratatouille and Chicken Jambalaya. Enjoy!

BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN

Servings: 6

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/228.shtml

Ingredients

Vegetable oil spray

4 slices whole-wheat bread

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1-1/2 tablespoons finely snipped fresh parsley

1-1/2 teaspoons paprika

3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled

1/2 cup nonfat or low-fat buttermilk

Vegetable oil spray

6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, about 4 ounces each, all visible fat removed

Directions

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Lightly spray a rectangular baking sheet and slightly smaller cooling rack with vegetable oil spray. Put rack on baking sheet. Set aside.

In a food processor or blender, process bread into fine crumbs. Pour into a shallow bowl. Stir Parmesan, parsley, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme into crumbs.

Pour buttermilk into a shallow bowl.

Rinse chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Dip chicken into buttermilk, shake off excess liquid, dredge in crumbs, and shake off excess crumbs. Put chicken on cooling rack. Spray each breast with vegetable oil spray.

Bake for 15 minutes, turn chicken, and bake for 10 minutes, or until done.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 209; Protein: 38 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 303 mg; Cholesterol: 68 mg; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Exchanges: 3/4 Bread/Starch; 4 Low-Fat Meat

CHICKEN TENDERS WITH SPICY BLACK BEANS

Yield: 4 servings

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/738.shtml

Source: Secrets of Good-Carb Low-Carb Living

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast tenders

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 cup canned black beans, undrained

1/2 cup chunky-style salsa

1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack or Mexican-blend cheese (optional)

3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro or thinly sliced scallions

Directions

Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.

Combine the cumin, garlic powder, pepper, and salt, and rub some of the mixture over both sides of the chicken tenders.

Place the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken tenders and cook for a couple of minutes on each side, or until nicely browned.

Reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for about 3 minutes more or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.

Add the black beans and salsa to the skillet and cook over medium-high heat for a minute or two to heat through.

To serve, place a quarter of the chicken tenders on each of 4 serving plates and top with a quarter of the black-bean mixture.

If desired, top each serving with some of the cheese and sprinkle with some of the cilantro or scallions. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 201; Protein: 29 g; Fat: 4.9 g; Sodium: 629 mg; Cholesterol: 66 mg; Saturated Fat: 0.8 g; Dietary Fiber: 3.5 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 4 Low-Fat Meat

CHICKEN JAMBALAYA

Makes 6 servings.

Source: AICR

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/232.shtml

Ingredients

1 Tbsp. olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 – 3 garlic cloves, minced

3/4 lb. skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut in 3/4-inch pieces

1 can (14.5 oz.) whole plum tomatoes in juice

1 rib celery, cut in 1/2-inch slices

1 small green bell pepper, chopped

1 scallion, chopped

1 Tbsp. tomato paste

1 bay leaf

1 tsp. dried thyme

1/4 tsp. dried red pepper flakes

1 pinch ground cloves

1 cup hot long-grain brown rice, cooked according to package directions

Directions

In 3-quart Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic. Saute, stirring frequently, until onion is tender but not brown, about 4 minutes. Add chicken and cook, stirring, until pieces are white on all sides.

Add tomatoes with liquid, breaking up with spoon. Mix in celery, bell pepper, scallion and tomato paste. Stir in bay leaf, thyme, pepper flakes and cloves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until chicken is cooked and sauce has thickened, about 20 minutes.

Remove bay leaf. Stir rice into chicken mixture until well combined.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 235; Protein: 17 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 203 mg; Carbohydrates: 33 g; Exchanges: 2 Low-Fat Meat, 2 Bread/Starch. 1 Vegetable

CHICKEN RATATOUILLE

Makes: 4 servings

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1253.shtml

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

4 chicken breasts halves (medium, skinned, fat removed, boned, and cut into 1-inch pieces)

2 zucchini (7 inches long, unpeeled and thinly sliced)

1 eggplant (small, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)

1 onion (medium, thinly sliced)

1 green pepper (medium, cut into 1-inch pieces)

1/2 pound mushroom (fresh, sliced)

1 can tomatoes (16 oz, whole, cut up)

1 garlic clove (minced)

1-1/2 teaspoons basil (dried, crushed)

1 tablespoon parsley (fresh, minced)

black pepper (to taste)

Directions

Heat oil in large non-stick skillet. Add chicken and saute about 3 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Add zucchini, eggplant, onion, green pepper, and mushrooms. Cook about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add tomatoes, garlic, basil, parsley, and pepper; stir and continue cooking about 5 minutes, or until chicken is tender.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 270; Protein: 32 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 240 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g

CROCK POT HARVEST CHICKEN AND POTATOES

This is from Diabetic Connect

View this online here.

This recipe begins, “Put this whole meal together in less than 10 minutes and the slow cooker does the rest!”

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1" pieces

3 Tbsp flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

12 ounces small new poitatoes, scrubbed and halved

2 cups baby carrots cut into 3rds

2 celery stalks cut into 1/2" pieces

1 large onion chopped

1 can (4oz.) mushrooms sliced and drained

2 cloves garlic

3/4 tsp dried thyme

1/4 tsp dried sage

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 Tbsp margarine or butter

Directions

In a small bowl mix together the chicken, 2 Tbsp flour, 1/4 tsp of salt and pepper.

Add to slow cooker.

Stir in potatoes, carrots, onions and celery, mushrooms, garlic, 1/2 tsp thyme, sage and broth.

Cover, cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 to 7 hours.

In a small bowl mix together remaining flour and melted margarine, mix together until a paste forms. Push the contents of pot to one side and with a whisk add in remaining salt & thyme, and flour paste. Mix until thick, cook 1 more hour, or until thoroughly thicken.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 6; Calories: 194; Fat: 3 g; Protein: 21 g; Carbohydrate: 21 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sodium: 455 mg; Cholesterol: 55 mg

CHICKEN OLE

Yield: 4 servings

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=745

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/745.shtml

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, sliced and separated into rings

14-1/2 ounce can Mexican-style stewed tomatoes

1 cup frozen (thawed) whole kernel corn

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or sliced scallions

Directions

Sprinkle the chicken with the cumin and pepper and toss to mix well. Set aside.

Coat a large nonstick skillet with the olive oil and preheat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for several mixture, until nicely browned. Add the onions, reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for a couple of minutes, until the onion softens.

Add the undrained tomatoes to the skillet and let the mixture come to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes. Add the corn and cook covered for 5 minutes more.

Serve hot, topping each serving with a sprinkling of the cilantro or scallions. Serve over brown rice or whole-wheat couscous if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 231; Protein: 29 g; Fat: 5.2 g; Sodium: 403 mg; Cholesterol: 65 mg; Saturated Fat: 0.9 g; Dietary Fiber: 3.2 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g; Exchanges: 3 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 Starch, 1-1/2 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

Monday, May 29, 2017

Memorial Day Recipes

It's Memorial Day here in the U.S. If you – or anyone in your family – is/was in the Armed Services – Thank You!

This also means a three-day holiday weekend. I've got six recipes to help you celebrate the day, including Grilled Citrus Chicken Skewers and Herbed Asparagus. Be safe, and Enjoy!

Note: This was originally posted on Memorial Day, 2016.

SANTA FE CHICKEN

This Santa Fe Chicken is a flavorful one-skillet dish and it's a snap to make. Serving size is 1 piece of chicken and 3/4 cup sauce.

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (1-3/4 pounds)

1 teaspoon minced garlic

4 green onions, minced (about 1/2 cup)

1 can (10-3/4 ounces) Campbell's Healthy Request Condensed Healthy Request Tomato Soup

1/2 cup Pace Picante Sauce

1/2 cup water

1 can (about 15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup whole kernel corn

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Directions

Stir the chili powder and cumin in a small bowl. Season the chicken with the chili powder mixture.

Heat the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 minutes or until browned on both sides. Add the garlic and onions and cook and stir for 1 minute.

Stir in the soup, picante sauce and water and heat to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the beans and corn. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Sprinkle with the cilantro.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 308; Protein: 35 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 486 mg; Cholesterol: 78 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g

EASY PANTRY TUNA PENNE

Serving Note: If you prefer, divide the pasta among 6 plates, then top with sauce.

Makes 6 main dish servings.

Source: Dreamfields Healthy Carb Pasta

Author: Chef Jim Coleman

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/659.shtml

Ingredients

1 box Dreamfields Penne Rigate

1-1/2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes in juice

1-1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon capers, drained (optional)

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

2 cans (5 ounces each) water-packed tuna, drained

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and return to pan.

Meanwhile, heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook 1 to 2 minutes until onion becomes translucent, stirring constantly (watch carefully so garlic does not burn). Stir in tomatoes with juice, parsley, lemon juice and capers. Cook 1 minute; add red pepper flakes to taste.

Reduce heat to medium-low; cook 3 to 5 minutes to thicken sauce, stirring frequently. Gently stir in tuna; heat through.

Add pasta to sauce. Stir gently to coat.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 312; Protein: 19 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 248 mg; Cholesterol: 16 mg ; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 7 g; Carbohydrates 53g

SPINACH SALAD WITH SEARED BOK CHOY, GINGER AND CILANTRO

This Asian-inspired recipe is alive with shades of green from spinach and bok choy and distinct flavors of soy sauce, ginger and garlic. And when you arrange the bok choy over fresh spinach, the warmth gently and slightly wilts the spinach leaves. The result is a mouth-watering medley of tastes and textures.

Yield: 4 servings.

Serving size: 2/3 cup bok choy mixture, 1 cup spinach.

Source: CanolaInfo

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1205.shtml

Ingredients

1 Tbsp canola oil

1 bunch bok choy, rinsed well and chopped (4 cups)

1/3 cup chopped whole green onions

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp minced fresh ginger

1 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves

Directions

In large skillet, heat canola oil over medium-high heat.

Add bok choy, green onions, garlic and ginger and cook 2-3 minutes or until bok choy is tender-crisp.

Add soy sauce and pepper, stir to coat and cook 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro.

Arrange spinach leaves on serving platter. Spoon bok choy mixture over spinach and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 50; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 3.5 g; Sodium: 140 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g

GRILLED CITRUS CHICKEN SKEWERS

These Grilled Citrus Chicken Skewers are a great way to start the grilling season.

Yield: 5 to 6 servings.

Photo and recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1209.shtml

Ingredients

1/3 cup canola oil

1 Tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp grated lemon zest

1/4 cup orange juice

1 1/2 tsp dried oregano

salt and pepper to taste

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces

1 lb crimini mushrooms

8 asparagus spears, cut into 2 inch spears

12 cherry tomatoes

8 (12 inch) grilling skewers (12 inch)

Directions

In medium sized bowl, combine canola oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, orange juice, oregano, salt, pepper and garlic. Whisk until ingredients are well combined.

Add chicken, mushrooms, asparagus and tomatoes. Toss until well coated. Marinate for 20-30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Thread chicken pieces and vegetables alternately on skewers. Discard marinade.

Meanwhile, heat barbecue to medium heat. Grill skewers on lightly oiled grill, turning once with tongs. Grill until chicken cooked through, about 5 to 8 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 240; Protein: 20 g; Fat: 15 g; Sodium: 100 mg; Cholesterol: 50 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g

HERBED ASPARAGUS

Yield: 8 servings

Source: Mr. Food Every Day's a Holiday Diabetic Cookbook

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/680.shtml

Ingredients

2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed

1 cup reduced-fat Italian dressing

1/2 of a small red bell pepper, diced

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1/2 teaspoon dried chives

1 hard-boiled egg, finely chopped (optional)

Directions

Fill a soup pot with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Add the asparagus, cover, and steam for 4 to 6 minutes, or until fork-tender. Remove the asparagus and plunge it into a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

In a 9" x 13" baking dish, combine the Italian dressing, red pepper, parsley, and chives; mix well.

Remove the asparagus from the water, drain well, and add to the baking dish, coating it completely with the dressing mixture.

Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Just before serving, sprinkle with the chopped egg, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 31; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 456 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable

TOMATO, BASIL AND MOZZARELLA SALAD

Yield: 4 servings

Print: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/189.shtml

Ingredients

1 pound ripe tomatoes (2-3)

5-6 fresh mozzerella balls (small size)

2-3 fresh basil leaves, diced

2 teaspoons olive oil

Dash of salt (optional)

Direction

Slice tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick slices.

Arrange 2-3 tomato slices on each salad plate.

Cut fresh mozzerella ball into halves.

Top each tomato slice with sliced mozzerella.

Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes.

Top each mozzerella half with fresh basil.

Sprinkle dash of salt over dish. (optional)

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 70; Protein: 5 g; Sodium: 140 mg; Cholesterol: 6 mg; Fat: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 6 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1 Medium-Fat

Friday, May 26, 2017

Friday - Three-Day Weekend

Ahhhh...the beginning of a three-day weekend! For anyone wanting a little info on Memorial Day, check out The History Channel's article on Memorial Day.

And now, here are six vegetarian recipes to help you through the weekend, including Chicken Kiev and Turkey Meatloaf. Enjoy!

Note: I will be posting here on Monday; keep an eye out for vegetarian recipes to help celebrate the holiday.

BLUEBERRY PEACH COBBLER

Yield: 10 servings

Source: "1,001 Delicious Desserts for People with Diabetes"

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/21.shtml

Ingredients

2 pounds peaches, peeled, pitted, thickly sliced

2 cups blueberries

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 cup Splenda sweetener

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Generous pinch ground nutmeg

Sour Cream Cobbler Topping (recipe follows)

Fat-free milk

Directions

Combine peaches and blueberries in 3-quart casserole; sprinkle with lemon juice. Toss with combined Splenda, cornstarch, and spices.

Place Sour Cream Cobbler Topping over casserole; cut several vents. Brush with milk.

Bake at 375 degrees F. until toothpick inserted in cobbler topping comes out clean, 35 to 45 minutes.

SOUR CREAM TOPPING

Ingredients

1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons Splenda sweetener

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons cold margarine, cut into pieces

1/2 cup fat-free sour cream

3-4 tablespoons water

Directions

Combine flour, Splenda, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; cut in margarine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Whisk sour cream and water until smooth; add to flour mixture and mix to form dough. Knead several times until smooth on floured surface; let stand 5 minutes.

Roll dough on floured surface, or between sheets of waxed paper, into circle to fit top of casserole.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/10 of recipe): Calories: 173, Fat: 3.8 g, Saturated Fat: 0.7 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Sodium: 121 mg, Protein: 3.4 g, Carbohydrate: 32.7 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Fruit, 1 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Fat

ORANGE CRANBERRY BREAD

Yield: 1 loaf (18 slices)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/412.shtml

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 medium orange

2 teaspoons margarine, melted

1 large egg, beaten, or 1/4 cup egg substitute

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Cut aluminum foil to fit the bottom of a 9x5-inch loaf pan and spray the sides of the pan with nonstick pan spray.

Sift the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl.

Grate the zest from the orange and set aside. Cut the orange in half and squeeze the juice into a measuring cup. Add the grated zest and melted margarine to the juice and add enough hot water to make 1 cup.

Stir the liquids into the dry ingredients. Add the egg, vanilla, cranberries, and walnuts; stir to mix.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the top of the loaf comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack.

If time permits, let stand overnight for easy slicing. Cut the loaf into 18 slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 108; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 109 mg; Cholesterol: 12 mg ; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat

CHICKEN KIEV

Yield: 4 servings

Source: "Cooking with the Diabetic Chef" by Chris Smith

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/23.shtml

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon white pepper

2 tablespoons herb butter

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg, beaten

1/2 cup dry bread crumbs

Nonstick cooking spray

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Using a mallet or meat tenderizer, pound the chicken breasts until they are very thin. Season the chicken breasts with salt and white pepper.

Place 1/2 teaspoon of herb butter in the center of each chicken breast, roll the chicken breasts up, and secure the chicken breasts with toothpicks. Make sure there are no openings through with the butter can leak out.

Coat the chicken breasts with flour, dip them in the egg, then dredge them through the bread crumbs until each piece is well covered. Spray a pan with nonstick cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add the rolled breasts and brown on all sides.

Bake the browned chicken breasts in the oven for about 15 minutes. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1 chicken breast): Calories: 433, Fat: 13 g, Cholesterol: 188 mg, Sodium: 780 mg, Carbohydrate: 13 g, Protein: 31 g, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 3-1/2 Very Lean Meat, 3 Fat

TURKEY MEATLOAF

Makes 5 servings

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/435.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 lb.ground turkey breast

1/2 lb. ground turkey

1/3 cup ketchup

1 cup unseasoned whole-wheat breadcrumbs

3/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 tsp. dried basil

2 tsp. dried oregano

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 large egg

1/2 cup shredded carrots

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/4 cup green bell pepper, minced

1/4 cup red bell pepper, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

3 Tbsp. ketchup (optional, to use as a topping)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combine all ingredients except 3 tablespoons of ketchup in a large bowl. Transfer mixture to a 9x5-inch non-stick loaf pan. Bake 1 hour, uncovered.

Remove from oven. Spread the 3 tablespoons ketchup on top, if desired. Cover lightly with foil and let meatloaf rest 10 minutes. Cut into slices and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 278; Protein: 24 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 420 mg; Carbohydrates: 23 g, Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 3 Lean-Meat

CREAM OF POTATO SOUP

Yield: 6 servings

Source: "Cooking with the Diabetic Chef" by Chris Smith

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/23.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 medium onion, diced

1 stalk celery, diced

1 quart chicken stock

1 pound potatoes, peeled and quartered

1/2 teaspoon marjoram

1 cup low-fat (1%) milk

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon white pepper

4 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Add the chicken stock, potatoes, marjoram, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cover to cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Place the mixture in a food processor and blend until smooth. Whisk in the milk until the mixture is then enough. Add the salt and pepper and mix well. Serve with 1 tablespoon of parsley overtop of each bowl.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (About 1 cup): Calories: 121, Fat: 3 g, Cholesterol: 6 mg, Sodium: 296 mg, Carbohydrate: 19 g, Protein: 5 g, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1/2 Fat

Thursday, May 25, 2017

Thursday Recipes

Here are today's six yummy recipes to get you through the day, including Stuffed Peppers and Italian Steamed Chicken. Enjoy!

CRANBERRY, PEAR, AND APPLE CRISP

This recipe begins, “A perfect crowd-pleaser for sure! Apples and cranberries give this low-carb dessert a festive look and taste.”

This is from Diabetic Connect.

Click here to view this online.

Ingredients

2 medium pears

1 large sweet apple

1 cup fresh whole cranberries

2 TBS lemon juice

zest of 1/2 lemon

3 TBS light sugar, divided (sugar/stevia blend)

1/3 cup almond meal/flour

1/3 cup pecan pieces

1/3 cup sliced almonds

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp vanilla

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Peel the pears and apple, core and cut into 1 inch pieces.

Toss pears, apples and cranberries in a bowl with lemon juice, zest and 1 TBS sugar. Set aside.

In a food processor, add the almond meal, pecans, cinnamon, 2 TBS sugar and coconut oil and chop until fine.

Add the sliced almonds and pulse a few times until almonds are slightly chopped.

Pour the fruit into a 8x8 baking dish or a 2 qt. casserole dish.

Crumble the topping evenly over the fruit mixture.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until fruit is tender.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 9; Calories: 167; Total Fat: 12 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Sodium: 2 mg; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Protein: 2 g

BRATAPFEL (GERMAN BAKED APPLES

This recipe begins, “It doesn't matter if you can't pronounce this wonderful German dessert. The flavor will win you over from the first bite.”

This is from Diabetic Connect.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

4 medium Braeburn apples

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

2 TBS raisins

3 TBS coconut oil, melted

1 1/2 TBS honey

1 1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1/4 tsp ground ginger

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Grease the bottom of a 8x8 baking dish.

Cut a circle in the top of the apples about 1 1/2 inches wide. Scoop out the top circle and continue scooping down only 3/4 the way of the apple, trying to keep the 1 1/2 inch measurement the whole way.

Mix the remaining ingredients, and scoop them equally between the 4 apples.

Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are at the desired tenderness. Do not over cook or the apples will be mushy.

Cut apples in half and serve.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 8; Calories: 148; Total Fat: 10 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Sodium: 1 mg; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Protein: 1 g

ITALIAN STEAMED CHICKEN

Servings: 4

Source: Cooking Healthy and Fast

Author: Rachel Rudel, RD

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/222.shtml

Ingredients

3 lbs. skinned chicken pieces

8 oz. no added salt tomato sauce

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. oregano

1 tsp. basil

1 tsp. sugar

1 tsp. lemon juice

Directions

Place skinned chicken pieces in microwave casserole dish.

Mix no added salt tomato sauce with garlic powder, oregano, basil, sugar and lemon juice.

Pour sauce over chicken and cover.

Microwave at 70% power for 16 to 18 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 163; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 73 mg; Cholesterol: 67 mg; Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat

GRILLED MUSTARD TURKEY CUTLETS

Yield: 4 Servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=712

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/712.shtml

Source: Light and Easy Diabetes Cuisine

Ingredients

1 pound turkey breast cutlet, 1/4-inch thick

2 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard

2 tablespoons no-cholesterol, reduced-calorie mayonnaise

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Pepper to taste

Paprika

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Preheat broiler. Coat broiler pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Rinse turkey and pat dry.

Mix together mustard, mayonnaise and lemon juice in a small bowl. Coat one side of the turkey with half of mustard mixture.

Broil about 4 inches from heat source 5 minutes. Turn and coat other side of turkey with mustard mixture and sprinkle with pepper and paprika.

Broil 1 minute or until top is browned. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 150; Protein: 26 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 193 mg; Cholesterol: 74 mg; Carbohydrates: 2 g; Exchanges: 3 Low-Fat Meat

CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI IN MUSHROOM SAUCE

Servings: 6

Source: American Heart Association

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/220.shtml

Ingredients

Vegetable oil spray

10 ounces fresh broccoli spears (or 10-ounce package frozen)

2 cups diced, cooked chicken

For Sauce:

1 teaspoon light margarine

8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced (2-1/2 to 3 cups)

1-1/3 cups Chicken Broth

5-ounce can fat-free evaporated milk (2/3 cup)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sliced green onions

3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Dash of nutmeg

For Topping:

1/4 cup fresh bread crumbs (or 1/2 slice bread)

2 tablespoons finely snipped fresh parsley

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

Directions

Lightly spray a 9-inch square baking pan with vegetable oil spray.

Steam broccoli spears until tender-crisp, then plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain and blot dry on paper towels. Arrange in baking pan.

Evenly place chicken over broccoli. Set aside.

For sauce, heat margarine in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat. Swirl to coat bottom. Cook mushrooms, covered, for 7 to 9 minutes, or until they've been released of their juices. Increase heat to high and cook, uncovered, for 1 to 2 minutes to allow liquid to evaporate. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Pour broth and milk into a medium saucepan. Whisk in flour. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; cook until thickened, 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in green onions, Parmesan, nutmeg, and mushrooms. Pour over chicken in baking pan.

In a small bowl, combine topping ingredients. Sprinkle over casserole. Bake for 25 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 165; Protein: 18 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch; 2-1/2 Low-Fat Meat

STUFFED PEPPERS

Servings: 8

Source: The New American Heart Association Cookbook

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/238.shtml

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers, any color or combination

1 teaspoon olive oil

2 medium tomatoes, chopped (about 1-1/2 cups)

1 medium crookneck squash, diced (about 2 cups)

1 medium zucchini, diced (about 2 cups)

1/2 cup diced onion (1 medium)

2 medium cloves garlic, minced, or 1 tsp bottled minced garlic

2 cups cooked brown rice (1/2 to 2/3 cup uncooked)

1/2 cup grated fat-free or low-fat Cheddar cheese (2 ounces)

1/4 cup sliced water chestnuts (2 ounces)

1 cup no-salt-added tomato juice

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Cut peppers in half lengthwise, removing stems, ribs, and seeds. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, swirling to coat bottom. Saute tomatoes, crookneck squash, zucchini, onion, and garlic until zucchini is tender-crisp, 3 to 4 minutes. Don't overcook.

In a medium bowl, combine rice, cheese, and water chestnuts. Gently stir into skillet. Stuff pepper halves with vegetable mixture. Place in 9-inch round or square casserole dish, then carefully pour tomato juice around peppers. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 119; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 68 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Carbohydrates: 23 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Low-Fat Milk, 2 Vegetable

Wednesday, May 24, 2017

Where's the Beef?

Here are six beefy recipes to help you through the day, including Swedish Meatballs and Beef Ragout. Enjoy!

SWEDISH MEATBALLS

This is from Glucerna Shakes

1 pound extra lean ground sirloin

1 8-oz can Vanilla Glucerna Shake

1/2 C onion, grated

1 medium potato, grated

1/2 C dry bread crumbs

1/2 tsp salt

1 10 ¾ oz can condensed Healthy Request cream of mushroom soup

3/4 C fat-free, no-sodium beef broth

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/8 tsp onion powder

1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1/4 tsp pepper (optional)

3 C cooked egg noodles

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

In large bowl, mix ground sirloin, 1/2 C Glucerna Shake, onion, potato, bread crumbs & salt. Form into 30 1-1/4-inch meatballs.

In small bowl, combine soup, remaining Glucerna Shake, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce & pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Place formed meatballs into 2-quart casserole dish. Pour soup mixture over meatballs. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through. Spoon meatballs & sauce over cooked noodles & serve.

Meatballs & sauce can be frozen in individual servings for quick meals.

Diabetic exhanges: 2 starch; 2 very lean mean; 1 low-fat milk; 1/2 fat

Nutrition (fixed w/Glucerna Shake): Servings: 6; Per serving: Calories: 320; Cal. From fat: 80; total fat 9g; sat. fat 2.5 g; cholesterol 70 mg; sodium 380 mg; potassium 240 mg; carbo. 39 g; fiber 4g; Sugar 3g; protein 23g

MEATLOAF

This recipe begins, “This meatloaf is a healthy spin on the American classic. You'll love the flavored meat mixed with homemade sauce and a dabble of ketchup on top.”

This is from Diabetic Connect.

This can be viewed at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/3288-meatloaf

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground beef (ground shoulder roast is good)

1 slice bread (broken or chopped finely)

1 egg

1 small vidalia onions or 1 small type sweet onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon table salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

4 tablespoons ketchup

1/2 – 2/3 cup whole milk or 1/2 – 2/3 cup half-and-half

Sauce

4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 – 4 tablespoons dark brown sugar, packed firm (to taste)

1/2 cup ketchup

Directions

Meatloaf: Combine meat loaf ingredients and place into a loaf baking dish.

Smooth out top.

Sauce: Combine sauce ingredients and pour on top and sides of meatloaf.

Bake at 350°F about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes or until done.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 5; 5 servings; Calories 493 (51% from fat); Cholesterol 171.5 mg; Sodium 1270.7 mg; Potassium 780 mg; Carbohydrate 23 g; Dietary Fiber .3 g; Protein 35.4 g

PHILLY-STYLE MEATLOAF

This recipe begins, “Bring the warmth and rich flavor of Philly into your home with this delicious meatloaf. And it only takes an hour to bake with limited amount of prep time.”

This is from Diabetic Connect.

View this online at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/6672-philly-style-meatloaf

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds ground beef

1 1/4 teaspoons salt

1 egg

1 dash ground black pepper

1 cup soft bread crumbs

1/2 cup milk

1/3 cup steak sauce, (e.g. Heinz 57)

1 onion, chopped

1/2 cup diced green bell pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch loaf pan.

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, egg, black pepper and bread crumbs. Pour in the milk, 3 tablespoons of the steak sauce, onion and green bell pepper.

Place the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape into a loaf. Brush the top with the remaining steak sauce.

Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until done. Allow to stand 5 minutes before slicing.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 6; Calories – 286; Carbohydrates – 9.5g; Total Fat – 17.9g; Protein – 20.9g; Sodium – 805mg; Dietary Fiber - 0.9g

NEAPOLITAN MEATBALLS

This comes from Diabetic Connect.

To view this online, go to http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/2219-neapolitan-meatballs

Ingredients

1/2 cup bulgur

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

8 cloves garlic, very thinly sliced

3/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

2 28-ounce cans diced tomatoes

4 cups diced plum tomatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds)

2 cups cubed whole-wheat country bread

1 large egg

1 large egg white

1 pound 93%-lean ground beef

1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, plus more to taste

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Directions

Place bulgur in a medium bowl and cover generously with hot water. Let soak for 30 minutes. Drain in a fine sieve, pressing to remove excess liquid.

Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add garlic, oregano and crushed red pepper; cook, stirring, until softened but not browned, about 1 minute. Stir in canned tomatoes and plum tomatoes; increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low. Partially cover and let simmer while you prepare meatballs.

Place bread in a medium bowl and cover with cold water. Let soak for a few minutes. Drain and squeeze out moisture.

Whisk egg and egg white in a large bowl. Add the bulgur, the bread, beef, Parmesan, cinnamon, pepper and salt. Gently combine with a potato masher and/or your hands. Form into 20 oval meatballs about 2 inches long.

Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned all over, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate; blot with paper towels. Brown the remaining meatballs.

Mash the simmering tomato sauce with a potato masher to break down any large chunks of tomato. Add the meatballs to the sauce. Simmer over low heat, partially covered, for 50 minutes.

Taste the sauce and add sugar, if it seems tart, and additional pepper to taste. Serve the meatballs with the sauce.

Makes 8 servings, 2 – 3 meatballs each.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 1; Per serving: 283 calories; 11 g fat (4 g sat, 4 g mono); 73 mg cholesterol; 20 g carbohydrate; 23 g protein; 5 g fiber; 687 mg sodium; 271 mg potassium. 1 Carbohydrate Serving; Exchanges1/2 starch; 1 vegetable; 2 1/2 lean meat

BEEF RAGOUT

Yield: About 6 cups

Servings: 8 (3/4 cup) servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=716

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/716.shtml

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon margarine

2 pounds round steak or other lean beef, cut in 3/4-inch cubes

2 cups chopped onion

5 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, or 2 teaspoons dried parsley

1 tablespoon grated orange zest

1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms

1 cup sliced green bell pepper

Directions

Heat the margarine in a large non-stick skillet. Brown the beef cubes on all sides over high heat; transfer to a large pot or Dutch oven.

Lower the heat under the skillet and add the onion and garlic; stir and cook about 5 minutes. Transfer to the large pot.

Add 1/2 cup water, the parsley, orange zest, rosemary, bay leaves, cinnamon, and salt to the large pot.

Cover and simmer 1-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender. Add water if the mixture becomes dry. Remove the bay leaves.

Add the mushrooms and green pepper, stir, cover, and cook about 5 minutes more.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 203; Protein: 26 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 230 mg; Cholesterol: 66 mg; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Sugars: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 3 Lean Meat

SLOW-COOKED SICILIAN POT ROAST

Yield: 8 servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=744

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/744.shtml

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Ingredients

2-1/2 pound well-trimmed top round roast or flat half brisket

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms

1 cup chopped onions

1 cup chopped red or green bell peppers or 1 cup roasted bell peppers, drained and chopped

14-1/2 ounce can diced Italian-style tomatoes, undrained

6-ounce can tomato paste with roasted garlic or Italian seasonings

Directions

Rinse the meat with cool water and pat it dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with some of the pepper.

Coat a large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray and preheat over medium-high heat.

Place the meat in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until nicely browned.

Place the mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers in a 3-quart slow cooker and top with the roast. Pour the tomatoes over the meat. Cover and cook on high for 5 hours or on low for 10 hours, until the meat is very tender.

Remove the roast to a serving platter and cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm. Add the tomato paste to the remaining slow cooker mixture and stir to mix well.

Slice the roast across the grain and serve hot accompanied by the sauce. Serve with pasta if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 221; Protein: 29 g; Fat: 5.7 g; Sodium: 440 mg; Cholesterol: 80 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.7 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Exchanges: 3 Lean Meat, 2 Vegetable

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Tuesday Recipes

Here are today's six diabetic recipes to help you through the day, including Southern Pecan Pie and Spicy Chicken Pie. Enjoy!

DILLED PEAS AND POTATOES VINAIGRETTE

Yield: 8 servings

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=683

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/683.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons wine vinegar

2 tablespoons minced fresh dill

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 16-oz. package frozen pea pods

1/4 cup minced green onion

8 small red potatoes, cooked and sliced

Directions

Combine first five ingredients in a jar with tight-fitting lid; shake to blend well.

Blanch peas in boiling water for 2 minutes; drain well.

Toss peas, green onion and potatoes with dressing; cover and let stand up to two hours, stirring occasionally.

Arrange salad on serving platter or serving platter or in salad bowl. Serve at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 210; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 14 g; Sodium: 270 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g

SOUTHERN PECAN PIE

Servings: 10

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/188.shtml

Ingredients

1 (9-inch) unbaked pie shell

1 cup fruit sweetener

1 tablespoon cornmeal

1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce

3 tablespoons water

2 tablespoon cornstarch

3 eggs

2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoon very strong coffee or espresso, prepared

24 pecan halves

Directions

Prepare pastry and place in 9" pie pan.

In large bowl, combine fruit sweetener, cornmeal and applesauce. Beat with an electric mixer.

In a small bowl, blend water and cornstarch until smooth.

Add to fruit sweetner mixture and blend.

Beat in eggs, one at a time.

Stir in the vanilla and coffee.

Pour mixture into pie shell.

Decorate top with pecan halves.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes, or until custard is set, at 375F.

Cool slightly before cutting.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 211; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 9 g; Sodium: 69 mg; Cholesterol: 82 mg; Carbohydrates: 28 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread, 1 Fruit, 2 Fat

RAINBOW CHOPPED SALAD

This recipe begins, “Double this fresh and colorful salad and top each portion with 3 ounces grilled chicken breast for a quick main dish salad.”

This is from Diabetic Connect

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1/2 teaspoon orange zest

1/2 cup orange juice , preferably freshly squeezed

1/4 cup cider vinegar

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons fresh oregano , chopped, or 3/4 teaspoon dried

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1 1/2 cups bell peppers , chopped

1 1/2 cups broccoli florets , chopped

1 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup radishes , diced

1 tablespoon red onion , minced

1/2 cup Orange-Oregano Dressing

Directions

To prepare dressing: Place orange zest and juice, vinegar, oil, oregano, mustard, salt and pepper in a jar. Cover and shake to combine. (Makes about 1 cup.)

To prepare salad: Combine bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, radishes and onion in a medium bowl. Add 1/2 cup of the dressing and toss to coat. Refrigerate until ready to serve. (Refrigerate extra dressing for up to 1 week.)

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 4; Serving Size: generous 1 cup; Calories: 52; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Fat: 1 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Protein: 2 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Potassium: 350 mg; Sodium: 111 mg

CHICKEN, BROCCOLI, AND RICE BAKE

This came in an email from Diabetes Self-Management. This starts off, “Living well with diabetes requires keeping a close eye on your meal plan, but it doesn't have to mean sticking with a dull and dreary diet. To add some pizzazz to your plate, why not try one of the delicious, diabetes-friendly dishes below!” This recipe and the next are from their newsletter. And if you haven't signed up to receive their newsletters, now would be a good time to do it! Preparation time: 15 minutes; Baking time: 25–30 minutes; Yield: 4 servings

This recipe freezes well. It can be doubled to make a 9" x 13" casserole.

Ingredients

Cooking spray

1 package (10 ounces) frozen, chopped broccoli, thawed

1 cup cooked white rice (warm slightly if using leftover rice)

2 cups (about 8 ounces) diced cooked chicken breast

1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's Healthy Request cream of chicken soup

1/4 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise

1/4 cup skim milk

1/8 teaspoon curry powder

1 teaspoon dill

1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon fine, dry bread crumbs

Paprika

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat an 8" x 8" pan with cooking spray. Layer broccoli in bottom of pan. Top evenly with rice and then chicken. In a large bowl, whisk together soup, mayonnaise, milk, curry powder, dill, and lemon juice; mix well. Pour evenly over chicken. Sprinkle top of casserole with bread crumbs and paprika. Spray cooking spray over bread crumbs (to help them crisp during baking). Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly.

Nutrition Facts; Serving size: 1/4 of recipe; Per Serving: Calories: 244; Carbohydrate: 20 g; Protein: 23 g; Fat: 8 g; Saturated fat: 2 g; Sodium: 382 mg; Fiber: 2 g; Exchanges per serving: 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 2 1/2 lean meat; Carbohydrate choices: 1 1/2

SPICY CHICKEN PIE

Yield: 6 servings

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=689

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/689.shtml

Ingredients

Crust:

3 cups cooked orzo pasta (about 1 cup dry)

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fat-free egg substitute or 2 egg whites, lightly beaten

Butter-flavored cooked spray

Rest of Ingredients:

1-1/2 cups coarsely chopped fresh mushrooms

1 medium yellow onion, sliced and separated into rings

1-1/2 cups shredded or diced roasted chicken

14-1/2 ounce can Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, crushed

1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder

1 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack or Mexican-blend cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

To make the crust, place the orzo, Parmesan cheese, and egg substitute or egg whites in a large bowl and stir to mix well.

Coat a 10-inch pie pan with the cooking spray and pat the mixture evenly over the bottom and sides of the pan, forming an even crust. Spray the crust lightly with the cooking spray and bake uncovered for 10 minutes.

While the crust is baking, coat a large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray and add the mushrooms and onions. Place the skillet over medium heat, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, for several minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Add the undrained tomatoes, chili powder, and chicken to the skillet mixture. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is thick.

Spoon the chicken mixture into the baked crust and sprinkle the cheese over the top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and serve hot.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 295; Protein: 25 g; Fat: 7.7 g; Sodium: 426 mg; Cholesterol: 46 mg; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 29 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 2-1/2 Lean Meat, 1 Vegetable

LEMON-HERB TURKEY BREAST

Servings: 12

Source: NTF

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/203.shtml

Ingredients

1 TURKEY BREAST (4-6 pounds)

2 Sprigs each fresh herbs (sage, rosemary, oregano, thyme, or basil) OR 1/4 tsp. each dried herbs

4 to 6 Sprigs fresh parsley

1 Lemon

Cornstarch

Directions

Loosen skin on both sides of turkey breast, being careful not to tear. Leave skin connected at breast bone. Divide sprigs of herbs and parsley into two equal-size bundles. Stuff each herb/parsley bundle under loosened skin half.

With fork, deeply pierce lemon several times and place in breast cavity. In 11-X 9-X 1-inch roasting pan place breast bone-side-up on meat rack. Bake at 325 degrees F. until breast meat reaches 170-175 degrees F. on meat thermometer. Allow to stand 10 minutes before carving.

In a large measuring cup, drain liquid from pan. Set aside to allow fat to rise to top. Skim off fat and discard. Add squeezed juice from cooked lemon to defatted pan juices. For every cup, dissolve 1 tablespoon cornstarch in 1/4 cup cold water. Stir into juices; bring to boil and cook one minute or until thickened.

To serve, spoon gravy over sliced turkey.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 250; Protein: 37 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 82 mg; Cholesterol: 96 mg; Carbohydrates: 2 g

Monday, May 22, 2017

Meatless Monday

It's Meatless Monday. Here are six diabetic vegetarian recipes to help you through the day, including Ratatouille and Mango Frappe. Enjoy!

VEGETARIAN CURRY

This is from Diabetic Connect.

View this online at
http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/292-vegetarian-curry

Ingredients

3 potatoes chopped

1 cauliflower chopped

1 1/2 cup green peas

3 tomatoes chopped

3/4 tsp tumeric

1/2 tsp chili powder

1 1/2 tsp cumin

1 tsp curry

1 cup of water

Directions

Place all ingredients in a crock pot or slow cooker. Cook on low for five to six hours.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 3; calories 125; cholesterol 0 mg; sodium 23 mg; total carbs 26 g; dietary fiber 6 g; protein 5 g

STUFFED PEPPERS

Servings: 8

Source: The New American Heart Association Cookbook

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/238.shtml

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers, any color or combination

1 teaspoon olive oil

2 medium tomatoes, chopped (about 1-1/2 cups)

1 medium crookneck squash, diced (about 2 cups)

1 medium zucchini, diced (about 2 cups)

1/2 cup diced onion (1 medium)

2 medium cloves garlic, minced, or 1 tsp bottled minced garlic

2 cups cooked brown rice (1/2 to 2/3 cup uncooked)

1/2 cup grated fat-free or low-fat Cheddar cheese (2 ounces)

1/4 cup sliced water chestnuts (2 ounces)

1 cup no-salt-added tomato juice

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Cut peppers in half lengthwise, removing stems, ribs, and seeds. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, swirling to coat bottom. Saute tomatoes, crookneck squash, zucchini, onion, and garlic until zucchini is tender-crisp, 3 to 4 minutes. Don't overcook.

In a medium bowl, combine rice, cheese, and water chestnuts. Gently stir into skillet. Stuff pepper halves with vegetable mixture. Place in 9-inch round or square casserole dish, then carefully pour tomato juice around peppers. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 119; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 68 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Carbohydrates: 23 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Low-Fat Milk, 2 Vegetable

GRILLED VEGETABLES WITH BASIL DRESSING

Makes 8 servings.

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/229.shtml

Ingredients

1 small eggplant, sliced into thick rounds

1 zucchini, cut into thick, diagonal slices

1 yellow summer squash, cut into thick slices

1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into eighths

1 small red onion, sliced and cut into 8 segments

2 Tbsp. balsamic or red wine vinegar

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, or 1 Tbsp. dried

1/4 cup non-fat yogurt

2 Tbsp. reduced-fat mayonnaise

1 Tbsp. minced fresh basil, or 1 tsp. dried

1 tsp. lemon juice

Directions

Thread skewers with alternating pieces of eggplant, zucchini, squash, bell pepper and onion. Place skewered vegetables in shallow pan.

Make marinade for vegetables by blending vinegar, oil and 1/4 cup fresh basil (or 1 Tbsp. dried). Pour over vegetables. Let stand 10 minutes, occasionally turning skewers so marinade coats all sides.

Meanwhile, make dressing. Place yogurt, mayonnaise, 1 Tbsp. fresh basil (or 1 tsp. dried) and lemon juice in a blender and mix until smooth. Transfer to small pitcher.

Grill vegetables, adjusting height of rack to avoid charring if using an outdoor grill.

Serve vegetables as a side dish, as a sandwich filling in pita halves, or on sliced French bread or bruschetta. Pass basil-yogurt dressing to use as a topping.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 88; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 44 mg; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable; 1 Fat

FRIJOLES COCIDOS

Yield: 4-1/2 cups (6 servings)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/730.shtml

Ingredients

1-3/4 cup dried pinto beans (12 ounces)

1-1/4 cups chopped onion

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Directions

Wash and pick over the beans. Cover them with water and soak for 4 hours or overnight; drain.

Cover the beans with fresh water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for 1 to 1-1/2 hours, or until the beans are tender.

In a medium skillet, saute the onion, garlic, and cumin in the oil for 4 minutes. Add the green pepper and saute 5 minutes longer.

Drain the beans; reserve 1/2 cup liquid. Mash the beans with the reserved liquid; add the sauteed vegetables, the coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 232; Protein: 12 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 395 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 14 g; Sugars: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 40 g; Exchanges: 2-1/2 Starch, 1 Very Lean Meat

MANGO FRAPPE

Yield: 3 cups (3 Servings)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/729.shtml

Ingredients

1 medium whole ripe mango (12 ounces), peeled and pitted

3/4 cup orange juice

1/4 cup lime juice

1-1/4 cups club soda

2 ice cubes

Directions

Puree the mango in a food processor or a blender. Add the orange and lime juices; process until smooth.

Add the club soda and ice cubes; process just to blend and crush the ice. Serve at once.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 83; Protein: 1 g; Sodium: 27 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Sugars: 18 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Fruit

RATATOUILLE

This recipe begins, “Ratatouille, a specialty of the Provence region of France, is a popular and versatile dish that uses large amounts of produce. The tomatoes and eggplant create a juicy, stew-like sauce that accentuates the flavors of basil and garlic. Serve it hot as a side dish or over a grain for an entree. This version also tastes great when served cold.”

Serves 4

Source: AICR

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/230.shtml

Ingredients

1 small eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

2 large red bell peppers, seeded and cut into 3/4-inch pieces

4 small zucchini, sliced

1 onion, coarsely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb. tomatoes, chopped, OR 1 can (28 oz.) whole tomatoes, drained and chopped

1/3 cup chopped fresh basil

Directions

Sprinkle eggplant lightly with salt and let drain in colander for 30 minutes. Pat dry.

In non-stick skillet heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add eggplant. Stir and cook until soft and browned, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer eggplant to bowl.

Add remaining oil to pan and heat until hot. Add red peppers, zucchini, onion and garlic. Cook vegetables, stirring, until tender, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Mix in tomatoes, basil and eggplant. Stirring occasionally, cook on low heat 15 to 20 minutes or until all vegetables are very tender. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 123; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 200 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Exchanges: 3-1/2 Vegetable; 1 Fat

Friday, May 19, 2017

Friday Recipes and an Article

Did you know that there is a link between the outdoor temperature and the risk of gestational diabetes? I wasn't aware of this. However, an article in The Diabetic News states that there is.

The article ("Cooler Climate May Raise Gestational Diabetes Risk") reports the findings of study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. The study, which looked at "555,911 births among 396,828 women living in the Greater Toronto Area over a 12-year period (2002 to 2014)," showed that there was an increased rate of gestational diabetes among women "exposed to hot average temperatures."

Click here to read the article in its entirety. To read the study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, check out "Influence of environmental temperature on risk of gestational diabetes."

And now for today's six diabetic recipes to help you through the day, including Mushroom Meatloaf and Chicken Ratatouille. Enjoy!

GRILLED VEGETABLES WITH BASIL DRESSING

Makes 8 servings.

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/229.shtml

Ingredients

1 small eggplant, sliced into thick rounds

1 zucchini, cut into thick, diagonal slices

1 yellow summer squash, cut into thick slices

1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into eighths

1 small red onion, sliced and cut into 8 segments

2 Tbsp. balsamic or red wine vinegar

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, or 1 Tbsp. dried

1/4 cup non-fat yogurt

2 Tbsp. reduced-fat mayonnaise

1 Tbsp. minced fresh basil, or 1 tsp. dried

1 tsp. lemon juice

Directions

Thread skewers with alternating pieces of eggplant, zucchini, squash, bell pepper and onion. Place skewered vegetables in shallow pan.

Make marinade for vegetables by blending vinegar, oil and 1/4 cup fresh basil (or 1 Tbsp. dried). Pour over vegetables. Let stand 10 minutes, occasionally turning skewers so marinade coats all sides.

Meanwhile, make dressing. Place yogurt, mayonnaise, 1 Tbsp. fresh basil (or 1 tsp. dried) and lemon juice in a blender and mix until smooth. Transfer to small pitcher.

Grill vegetables, adjusting height of rack to avoid charring if using an outdoor grill.

Serve vegetables as a side dish, as a sandwich filling in pita halves, or on sliced French bread or bruschetta. Pass basil-yogurt dressing to use as a topping.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 88; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 44 mg; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable; 1 Fat

MUSHROOM MEATLOAF

Yield: 8 servings

Source: Secrets of Good-Carb Low-Carb Living

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/739.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds 95-percent-lean ground beef or ground turkey

2 cups very finely chopped fresh mushrooms

3/4 cup very finely chopped onion

3/4 cup quick-cooking (1-minute) oats

8-ounce can tomato sauce with roasted garlic or Italian herbs

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons fat-free egg substitute

1/4 cup very finely chopped fresh parsley, or 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon dried parsley

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

Place all of the ingredients except for 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce in a large bowl, and mix well.

Coat a 9-by-5-inch meatloaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and press the mixture into the pan to form a loaf.

Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 35 minutes. Spread the remaining tomato sauce over the meatloaf and bake for 30 additional minutes, or until the meat is no longer pink inside and a meat thermometer reads at least 160 degrees.

Remove the loaf from the oven, and let sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Protein: 20 g; Fat: 4.4 g; Sodium: 399 mg; Cholesterol: 45 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.6 g; Dietary Fiber: 1.7 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 3 Low-Fat Meat, 1 Vegetable

RATATOUILLE

This recipe begins, “Ratatouille, a specialty of the Provence region of France, is a popular and versatile dish that uses large amounts of produce. The tomatoes and eggplant create a juicy, stew-like sauce that accentuates the flavors of basil and garlic. Serve it hot as a side dish or over a grain for an entree. This version also tastes great when served cold.”

Serves 4

Source: AICR

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/230.shtml

Ingredients

1 small eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

2 large red bell peppers, seeded and cut into 3/4-inch pieces

4 small zucchini, sliced

1 onion, coarsely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb. tomatoes, chopped, OR 1 can (28 oz.) whole tomatoes, drained and chopped

1/3 cup chopped fresh basil

Directions

Sprinkle eggplant lightly with salt and let drain in colander for 30 minutes. Pat dry.

In non-stick skillet heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add eggplant. Stir and cook until soft and browned, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer eggplant to bowl.

Add remaining oil to pan and heat until hot. Add red peppers, zucchini, onion and garlic. Cook vegetables, stirring, until tender, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Mix in tomatoes, basil and eggplant. Stirring occasionally, cook on low heat 15 to 20 minutes or until all vegetables are very tender. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 123; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 200 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Exchanges: 3-1/2 Vegetable; 1 Fat

TUNA SALAD WRAP

This recipe begins, “Use vegetables in wraps, which hold better than sandwiches if you keep the wrapper flexible and don't overstuff them. The following recipe uses cream cheese and a lettuce leaf to prevent the moist filling from turning the wrapper soggy. Cold wraps usually improve in flavor by sitting in the refrigerator overnight.”

Makes 4 wraps.

Source: AICR

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/231.shtml

Ingredients

1 can (6.5 oz.) water-packed white tuna, drained

1 small carrot, shredded

1/4 cup finely chopped celery

1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper

1/2 Tbsp. dried chives or chervil

2 – 4 Tbsp. nonfat mayonnaise

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

4 8-inch flour tortillas

4 Tbsp. nonfat cream cheese

4 well-dried leaves of leafy green lettuce slightly smaller than a tortilla

1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

4 sprigs fresh mint, cilantro, or flat-leaf parsley

Directions

In small bowl, combine tuna, carrot, celery, green pepper, chives and enough mayonnaise to make a moist (but not wet) salad. Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

On each tortilla, spread a thin layer of cream cheese (about 1 tablespoon) across the center two-thirds of tortilla's surface, leaving a 2-inch margin along edges. Center 1 lettuce leaf on top of each tortilla. Press leaf into cream cheese. Spread one-fourth of the tuna salad firmly over each lettuce leaf, leaving a 2-inch margin at top and bottom of each tortilla. Sprinkle one-fourth of cheese over each tortilla and top with sprig of fresh mint or other fresh herb.

Fold the bottom of the tortilla up to cover the top of the filling. Fold in the two sides a quarter-inch. Roll tortilla up, holding side folds in. Roll wraps tightly and as firmly as possible to ensure packets stays closed. Tightly seal each in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve or pack. Wraps made without wet ingredients can keep for 24 hours or more without getting soggy.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 238; Protein: 20 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 534 mg; Carbohydrates: 24 g; Exchanges: 2 Low-Fat Meat; 1 Bread/Starch; 1-1/2 Vegetable

CHICKEN RATATOUILLE

Makes: 4 servings

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1253.shtml

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

4 chicken breasts halves (medium, skinned, fat removed, boned, and cut into 1-inch pieces)

2 zucchini (7 inches long, unpeeled and thinly sliced)

1 eggplant (small, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)

1 onion (medium, thinly sliced)

1 green pepper (medium, cut into 1-inch pieces)

1/2 pound mushroom (fresh, sliced)

1 can tomatoes (16 oz, whole, cut up)

1 garlic clove (minced)

1-1/2 teaspoons basil (dried, crushed)

1 tablespoon parsley (fresh, minced)

black pepper (to taste)

Directions

Heat oil in large non-stick skillet. Add chicken and saute about 3 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Add zucchini, eggplant, onion, green pepper, and mushrooms. Cook about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add tomatoes, garlic, basil, parsley, and pepper; stir and continue cooking about 5 minutes, or until chicken is tender.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 270; Protein: 32 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 240 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g

COLORFUL COLESLAW

Yield: 4 servings

Source: Secrets of Good-Carb Low-Carb Living

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/740.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup thinly sliced green cabbage

1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage

1 medium carrot shredded with a potato peeler, or 1/2 cup precut matchstick carrots

Dressing Ingredients:

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil or canola oil

1 teaspoon honey

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon dried dill

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Place the cabbage and carrots in a medium bowl, and toss to mix.

Combine the dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk to mix well. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again.

Serve immediately or cover and chill until ready to serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 52; Protein: 0.8 g; Fat: 3.6 g; Sodium: 187 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 1.2 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

Thursday, May 18, 2017

Soup's On!

I love homemade soup. It's comforting and filling and is food at its most basic. Here are six yummy diabetic soup recipes to help you through the day, including Old-Fashioned Tomato Soup and Slow-Cooker Vegetarian Minestrone. Enjoy!

BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP

From Diabetic Connect

To view this online, go to http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/2418-broccoli-cheese-soup

Ingredients

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup water

1 cup half & half - fat free

4 ounces cheddar cheese

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon onion

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

4 cups broccoli florets - bite-size

Directions

Combine chicken broth, water, half & half, cheese, flour, onion and pepper in a large saucepan. Whisk to break up any lumps of flour; turn heat to medium/high. Bring soup to a boil; reduce heat to low.

Add broccoli and simmer for 15-20 minutes until broccoli is tender, but not soft.

For each serving spoon one cup of soup into a bowl and garnish with a Tbsp. of shredded cheese and a pinch of parsley.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 8; Each (app 1 1/2 cup) serving contains an estimated: Cals: 126; FatCals 42; TotFat: 5 g: SatFat: 3 g; PolyFat: 0 g; MonoFat: 2 g; Chol: 14 mg; Na: 253 mg; K: 368 mg; TotCarbs: 15 g; Fiber: 2 g; Sugars: 5 g; NetCarbs: 13 g; Protein: 9 g

SLOW-COOKER VEGETARIAN MINESTRONE

This recipe begins, “With a few simple steps and time in the slow cooker, you'll have this delicious and nutritious minestrone soup ready to serve.”

This is from Diabetic Connect

To view this online, go to http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/6654-vegetarian-minestrone-slow-cooker

Ingredients

6 cups vegetable broth

1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

1 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained

1 large onion, chopped

2 ribs celery, diced

2 large carrots, diced

1 cup green beans

1 small zucchini

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley

1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

3/4 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup elbow macaroni

4 cups chopped fresh spinach

1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, or more to taste

Directions

Combine vegetable broth, tomatoes, kidney beans, onion, celery, carrots, green beans, zucchini, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, thyme, and black pepper in a 6-quart slow cooker.

Cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours.

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni in the boiling water, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite, 8 minutes; drain.

Stir spinach and macaroni into minestrone; cook another 15 minutes. Top with Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 8; Calories: 138; Carbohydrates: 25.2 g; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Protein: 6.9 g; Sodium: 941 mg; Dietary Fiber: 6.5 g

OLD-FASHIONED TOMATO SOUP

Yield: 4 servings

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=643

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/643.shtml

Ingredients

1 Tbsp. butter

1 onion, finely chopped

2 large garlic cloves, chopped

1 can (28-oz.) diced tomatoes

1 Tbsp. sugar

1 tsp. dried thyme

1/8 tsp. ground mace

Pinch of cayenne pepper

1/2 cup fat-free half-and-half cream

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

3 Tbsp. snipped dill, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Melt the butter in a small Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Saute the onion until translucent, 4 minutes. Add the garlic and saute until the onions are golden, 5 to 6 minutes.

Add the tomatoes with their juices, the sugar, thyme, mace and cayenne. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer the soup until the tomatoes and onion are soft, about 15 minutes.

Let the soup sit 20 minutes, uncovered. Transfer it to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and reduce the mixture to a puree, either pulpy or completely smooth, as desired.

Blend in the half-and-half. Season the soup to taste with salt and pepper.

Serve the soup hot, sprinkling one-fourth of the dill over each bowl, if using.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 586 mg; Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g; Exchanges: 1 Reduced-Fat Milk, 1 Vegetable

CHICKEN SOUP WITH LIME AND CILANTRO

Yield: 5 cups

Serving size: 1 cup

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=687

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/687.shtml

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Ingredients

1 quart Homemade Chicken Broth or canned reduced-sodium chicken broth

1 whole chicken breast, skinned, boned, and split, or 2 skinless, boneless breast halves (about 3/4 pound)

3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1/4 cup coarsely cilantro leaves

Directions

Bring the broth to a simmer in a large saucepan.

Add the chicken; cover and simmer over low heat until it is just cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Remove and shred the chicken. Return it to the broth; add the lime juice and bring the soup to a boil.

Ladle into soup bowls; sprinkle with cilantro.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 102; Protein: 18 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 126 mg; Cholesterol: 41 mg; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g; Exchanges: 2 Lean Meat

SPICY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP

This recipe begins, “This silky-smooth butternut soup gets a hit of spice from chipotle, cloves and cumin. Adapted from Chef Jesús González, Chef of La Cocina Que Canta at Rancho La Puerta.”

Time: 80 minutes (45 minutes prep)

This is from Diabetic Connect

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds (1 small to medium) butternut or other winter squash

1 teaspoon canola oil

2 stalks celery , chopped

1 small onion, diced

1 carrot , chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4-1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle chile (see Tip)

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

6 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/2 cup nonfat plain yogurt

2 tablespoons snipped fresh chives or chopped parsley

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cut squash in half and seed. Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut-side down. Bake until tender when pierced with a knife, 45 minutes to 1 hour. Scoop out flesh when cool enough to handle.

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add celery, onion and carrot and stir to coat. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently, until soft, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the squash flesh, cumin, chipotle to taste and cloves. Add broth and simmer, covered, until the vegetables are very tender, 20 to 25 minutes.

Puree the soup with an immersion blender or a regular blender (in batches) until smooth. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids.) Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with a drizzle of yogurt and sprinkle of chives (or parsley).

Tip: Chipotle peppers are dried, smoked jalapeño peppers. Ground chipotle can be found in the specialty-spice section of most supermarkets or online at penzeys.com.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 6; Serving Size: about 1 1/4 cups; Calories: 91; Carbohydrates: 17 g; Fat: 2 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Protein: 3 g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Potassium: 354 mg; Sodium: 694 mg

AVOCADO TORTILLA SOUP

This soup recipe begins, “Serve with a crisp salad for a soup-and-salad meal.”

Yield: 8 servings.

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=710

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/710.shtml

Ingredients

3 cans (14-ounces each) fat free, less salt (or lower sodium) chicken broth

2 cans (10.75-ounces each) low sodium, condensed tomato soup

1/2 bunch cilantro, leaves only

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

1 ripe California avocado, seeded, peeled and cubed (Reserve 8 cubes for garnish)

8 corn tortilla chips, crumbled

Directions

In a large pan combine chicken broth, soup, cilantro, garlic, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, decrease heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.

Cool slightly, and puree in batches in a blender.

Return to pan, add avocado cubes and heat through.

Ladle into soup bowls and garnish with reserved avocado cubes and crumbled tortilla chips.

Serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 142; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 383 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g