Diabetic Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

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Thursday, August 31, 2017

Thursday Recipes

Here are today's six yummy recipes to help you through the day, including Blueberry Yogurt Pops and Bacon & Mushroom Bite-Size Quiche. Enjoy!

FALAFEL PATTIES WITH YOGURT CUCUMBER SAUCE

This recipe begins, “The falafel mixture can also be shaped into 1-inch balls and cooked as the recipe directs; serve with Yogurt Cucumber Sauce as appetizers, or in pitas for sandwiches.”

Yield: 4 servings (2 each)

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes For People with Diabetes

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=845

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/845.shtml

Ingredients

1 package (6 ounces) falafel mix

1/2 cup shredded carrots

1/4 cup sunflower kernels

2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions and tops

Vegetable cooking spray

Yogurt Cucumber Sauce (recipe follows)

Directions

Prepare falafel mix with water according to package directions; mix in carrots, sunflower kernels, and green onions. Shape mixture into 8 patties about 1/2 inch thick.

Spray large skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Place patties in skillet and spray tops with cooking spray; cook until browned, 4 to 5 minutes on each side.

Serve with Yogurt Cucumber Sauce.

YOGURT CUCUMBER SAUCE

Yield: Makes about 1-1/3 cups

Ingredients

1 cup plain fat-free yogurt

1 cup shredded, or chopped, cucumber

1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed

1/2 teaspoon dried mint leaves

Salt and white pepper, to taste

Directions

Mix yogurt, cucumber, and herbs. Season to taste with salt and white pepper.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 255; Protein: 11.7 g; Fat: 7.7 g; Sodium: 586 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Carbohydrates: 28.6 g; Exchanges: 2 Bread/Starch, 1 Meat, 1 Fat

ROASTED CHICKEN SALAD WITH NAPA CABBAGE

Yield: 4 servings

Serving size is 4 oz. chicken, 1 cup cabbage, and 1/4 cup snow peas.

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=860

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/860.shtml

Source: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking

Ingredients

1 pound roasted white-meat deli chicken (either pulled from a whole chicken and skinned or from sliced chicken), cubed or shredded

1 cup fresh snow pea pods, halved

1/2 cup julienne baby carrot strips

1/2 cup low-fat Oriental salad dressing or low-fat vinaigrette

4 cups shredded Napa cabbage

Directions

In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat the chicken, snow pea pods, carrots, and garlic.

Cover and cook for 2 minutes.

Stir in dressing. Remove from heat.

In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and chicken mixture; toss together until mixed.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 285; Protein: 34 g; Fat: 13 g; Sodium: 416 mg; Cholesterol: 100 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Carbohydrate, 4 Lean Meat, 1/2 Fat

MEDITTERANEAN TURKEY BURGERS WITH FETA

This is from Diabetes Self-Management, and can be viewed online here.

Yield: 4 servings. Serving size: 1 burger.

Ingredients

4 white turkey burgers (95% lean)

1/3 cup plain nonfat yogurt

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup diced plum tomato

1/4 cup chopped cucumber

1/4 cup chopped pitted kalamata olives

1/4 cup fat-free crumbled feta cheese

2 (6-inch) whole wheat pita bread rounds, halved and warmed

Directions

Grill burgers over medium heat 6 to 8 minutes per side or until fully cooked (165°F), turning twice.

Combine yogurt, onion, tomato, cucumber, olives, and feta in small bowl. Serve burgers and feta mixture in pita halves.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 292, Carbohydrates: 21 g, Protein: 30 g, Fat: 10 g, Saturated Fat: 3 g, Cholesterol: 80 mg, Sodium: 413 mg, Fiber: 3 g, Exchanges per serving: 1 1/2 Bread/Starch, 3 Meat.

BACON AND MUSHROOM BITE-SIZE QUICHE

This recipe begins, “Tender, cheesy and savory custards in flaky pastry shells make elegant finger food-and can be made ahead and reheated. Delicious for brunch or evening appetizers.”

Makes 3-1/2 dozen.

Serving size: 1 quiche.

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=844

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/844.shtml

Ingredients

8 slices bacon

1/4 pound fresh mushrooms, chopped

1 tablespoon butter

1/3 cup green onion, chopped

1 2/3 cups Swiss cheese, shredded

Pastry for double-crust pie, (homemade or purchased)

5 eggs

1-2/3 cups sour cream

Directions

Heat oven to 375 degrees F.

On a lightly floured board, roll out the pastry dough 1/ 16-inch thick.

Using a 3-inch cutter, cut out 42 circles; re-roll scraps as needed.

Fit circles into bottoms and slightly up sides of lightly greased 2-1/2-inch muffin pans.

Meanwhile, fry bacon slices until crisp, drain; crumble or chop.

Chop mushrooms, saute in butter until limp and liquid evaporates.

Combine bacon, mushrooms, green onion and cheese. Divide filling equally among muffin cups.

In large bowl, beat together eggs, add sour cream and stir until smooth. Spoon about 1 tablespoon into each muffin cup.

Bake until puffed and light brown, 20-25 minutes. Cool in pans 5 minutes; lift out.

Serve warm or let cool on wire racks. If made ahead, wrap cooled quiches airtight, and refrigerate overnight.

Reheat, uncovered, in a 350 degrees F. oven for about 10 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 95; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 87 mg; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g

BLUEBERRY YOGURT POPS

Only three ingredients make up this natural and healthy treat.

This recipe is from Diabetic Connect, and can be viewed online here.1 cup plain Greek yogurt

2 teaspoons honey

1 cup frozen blueberries

Directions

Place all the ingredients into a bowl and mix well.

Spoon the ingredients into the mold and place the lid on top or add in some ice-cream sticks.

Place in the freezer overnight.

To remove easily, run a little hot water over the mold to release the popsicle.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 4; Calories – 64; Total Fat – 0 g; Saturated Fat – 0 g; Sodium – 26 mg; Carbohydrates – 11 g; Fiber – 1 g; Protein – 6 g

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Cookies!

Who doesn't love freshly baked cookies?

Unfortunately, cookies are one of those yummy treats that so many of us have may have thought were off-limits for diabetics. But these six recipes prove otherwise! This batch includes Gingersnaps (one of my favorites) and Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies, as well as four others. See if you can find your favorite among today's offerings. Enjoy!

RASPBERRY-ALMOND COOKIES

This recipe begins, “A bar-style cookie that's easy to make. Filled with rich, flavorful raspberry spreadable fruit, this is sure to become a favorite.”

Yield: 24 servings

Source: Equal

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1127.shtml

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

1/8 teaspoon salt

8 tablespoons cold stick butter or margarine, cut into pieces

1 egg

2 tablespoons water

1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

1 jar (10 ounces) seedless raspberry spreadable fruit

3 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds

* May substitute 12 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Combine flour, Equal and salt in medium bowl. Cut in butter with pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in egg, water and lemon peel. Mixture will be crumbly.

Press mixture evenly onto bottom of well-sprayed 8 x 8-inch square baking pan. Bake in preheated 350°F oven 12 to 15 minutes or until edges of crust are lightly browned.

Remove pan from oven and spread raspberry fruit over top. Sprinkle with almonds. Return to oven, and bake an additional 10 to 12 minutes or until raspberry fruit is bubbly. Cool completely on wire rack. Cut into bars.

Store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 86; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 16 mg; Cholesterol: 19 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat

APPLE OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIES

Yield: 4 dozen cookies

Serving size: 1 cookie

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1254

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1254.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful or Granulated *

1 cup unsweetened applesauce **

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar

6 tablespoons stick butter, softened

1 egg

1/3 cup 2% milk

2 teaspoons vanilla

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1-1/2 cups quick or old-fashioned oats, uncooked

1 cup raisins

*May substitute 30 packets Equal sweetener

** Apple butter may be substituted for the unsweetened applesauce for a slightly spicier version.

Directions

Combine Equal, applesauce, brown sugar, butter, egg, milk and vanilla. Mix with electric mixer until well blended.

Stir in combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Gradually mix in oats and raisins until well combined.

Drop by tablespoonfuls onto sprayed baking sheets.

Bake in preheated 350F oven 10 to 12 minutes or until light golden in color. Remove from baking sheet and cool completely on wire rack.

Store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 63; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 43 mg; Cholesterol: 8 mg; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat

GINGERSNAPS

This recipe begins, “Enjoy the aroma of these heavily spiced ginger cookies while they bake. For best results, allow to cool for a few hours in the fridge.”

Source: Splenda

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1154.shtml

Yield: 36 servings

Serving Size: 2 cookies

Ingredients

2/3 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

3/4 cup sugar

2/3 cup unsalted butter

1/3 cup molasses*

2 tablespoons canola oil

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

8 teaspoons ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

2 teaspoons cinnamon

*Use Robust Molasses for a more robust molasses flavor.

**Cookie Dough can also be rolled out and cut into circles or shapes.

Directions

Mix Splenda Granulated Sweetener, sugar, butter, molasses and oil together in a medium mixing bowl. Mix on medium speed until creamy. Scrape sides of the bowl. Add egg and mix well. Add remaining ingredients and mix until blended.

Divide dough in half. Roll into logs approx. 1 1/2 inches wide and 14 inches long. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours or freeze for 1 1/2 hours or until firm.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly oil cookie sheets.

Slice cookies approx. 1/4 inch thick.

** Place on prepared sheets.

Bake 10-12 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 110; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 4.5 g; Sodium: 75 mg; Cholesterol: 10 mg; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g

PUMPKIN POLKA DOT COOKIES

This recipe begins, “Chocolate chips enhance the flavor of the pumpkin and spices in these easy to make drop cookies.”

Recipe Yield: Makes about 4 dozen. Serving size: 1 cookie

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-polka-dot-cookies

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-polka-dot-cookies/print/

Ingredients

1/2 cup stick butter, softened

1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful*

3 tablespoons light molasses

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)

1 egg

1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla

1-2/3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1-1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

* May substitute 30 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Beat butter, Equal and molasses until well combined.Mix in pumpkin, egg and vanilla until blended.

Gradually stir in combined flour, baking powder, spices, baking soda and salt until well blended. Stir in chocolate chips.

Drop by teaspoonfuls onto sprayed baking sheets.

Bake in preheated 350F oven 11 to 13 minutes or until light golden brown.

Remove from baking sheet and cool completely on wire rack.

Store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 57; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 51 mg; Cholesterol: 9 mg; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

Source: Splenda

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1083.shtml

Yield: Makes about 4 dozen cookies

Serving size: 1 cookie

Ingredients



2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

1/3 cup Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

2 cups (12-ounce package)

Nestle Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels

Directions

Preheat oven to 375F.

Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, sugar blend, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.

Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 110; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 85 mg; Cholesterol: 15 mg; Carbohydrates: 13 g

CHOCOLATE OATMEAL COOKIES

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1077.shtml

Yield: 40 cookies

Serving size: 1 cookie

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 1/4 cups rolled oats

6 tablespoons cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

6 tablespoons trans-free margarine, softened

1/2 cup SPLENDA Sugar Blend

2 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Combine flour, oats, cocoa, baking powder, and salt.

In bowl of electric mixer, beat margarine and SPLENDA Sugar Blend on medium speed 1 to 2 minutes, or until light and aerated. Beat in eggs for 1 minute, or until light. Beat in vanilla and almond extract. Stir in dry ingredients.

Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto lightly greased baking sheets and flatten each with the back of a fork dipped in water.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or just until puffed and no longer shiny on top. Cool on sheets 5 minutes. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 50; Calories from Fat: 20; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 10 mg; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Tuesday Recipes

Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the day, including Bun-Less Cheddar Burgers and Baked Vanilla Custard. Enjoy!

SUMMER RATATOUILLE

Yield: 4 (1 cup) servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=857

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/857.shtml

Source: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil, divided

3 cups combination sliced zucchini and yellow squash

1 cup sliced onion

1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

1/3 cup minced fresh mint leaves

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 (4.75 oz) can prepared eggplant caponata

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Directions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil. Add the zucchini and yellow squash and onion and saute for 5-7 minutes until tender, stirring often.

Remove the zucchini-yellow squash saute to a salad bowl. Add remaining ingredients and let stand at room temperature for 1 hour.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 299 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1 Fat

ORZO-STUFFED EGGPLANT

Yield: 4 servings. Serving size: 2 halves.

Preparation time: 25 minutes. Cooking time: 50 minutes.

This is from Diabetes Self-Management, and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

4 small eggplants (approximately 7 ounces each)

Nonstick cooking spray

1 cup orzo pastina, uncooked

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups canned tomatoes, drained and chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

8 ounces part-skim mozzarella, diced

1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Directions

Heat oven to 400°F. Wash and pat dry the eggplants, cut off their stems, and cut them in half vertically. Place them with the cut side down on a baking pan coated with nonstick cooking spray. Bake for 30 minutes.

Remove eggplants from the pan, cool under running water, and pat dry. Using a spoon, carve out and chop the pulp, leaving just a thin shell (about 1/4 inch). Place pulp in a bowl and set aside.

Cook the orzo according to package instructions, but keep it slightly undercooked (1–2 minutes less than directed). While the orzo is cooking, heat the olive oil in a medium-size frying pan over moderate heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the chopped eggplant pulp and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the tomatoes, dried herbs, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

When the orzo is ready, drain and add to the eggplant mixture. Toss in both cheeses and mix well.

Divide eggplant–cheese mixture into 8 equal portions and fill the eggplant shells. Spray the top of each with cooking spray. Place stuffed eggplant halves on baking pan and bake for 10 minutes. Remove and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 404, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 22 g, Fat: 18 g, Saturated Fat: 8 g, Cholesterol: 36 mg, Sodium: 138 mg, Fiber: 9 g; Exchanges per serving: 2 1/2 starch, 2 medium-lean meat, 1 1/2 fat. Carbohydrate choices: 2 1/2.

MARINATED CHICKPEA AND TUNA SALAD

Yield: 4 servings

Serving size is 1/2 cup tuna, 1 cup vegetables, and 1/2 cup chickpeas.

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=858

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/858.shtml

Source: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking

Ingredients

2 cups chickpeas, rinsed and drained

2 cups red or green bell pepper strips

1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

1/2 cup sliced celery

2 tablespoons sliced green onions

1 cup sliced or shredded carrots

2 cups tuna (canned or from the salad bar)

2 tablespoons regular or garlic-flavored olive oil

1/4 cup balsamic or red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary

2 tablespoons minced fresh basil

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a salad bowl. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 325; Protein: 28 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 483 mg; Cholesterol: 22 mg; Dietary Fiber: 9 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 32 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 2 Vegetable, 3 Very Lean Meat, 1 Fat

BAKED VANILLA CUSTARD

Recipe Yield: Yield: 10 servings

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/baked-vanilla-custard

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/baked-vanilla-custard/print/

Ingredients

1 quart 2% milk

6 eggs

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons Equal® Spoonful*

2-1/2 teaspoons vanilla

1/4 teaspoon salt

Sliced fresh fruit (optional)

Fresh mint (optional)

* May substitute 27 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Heat milk just to boiling in medium saucepan. Let cool 5 minutes.

Beat eggs, Equal, vanilla and salt in large bowl until smooth. Gradually beat in hot milk.

Pour mixture into ten 6-ounce custard cups or 1-1/2 quart glass casserole. Place custard cups or casserole in roasting pan. Pour 1 inch of hot water into roasting pan.

Bake, uncovered, in preheated 325F oven 50 to 60 minutes or until sharp knife inserted halfway between center and edge of custard comes out clean.

Remove custard cups or casserole from roasting pan. Cool completely on wire rack.

Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight.

Serve garnished with sliced fresh fruit and mint, if desired.

Notes:

Traditional baked custard with half the calories. Made with Equal and reduced-fat milk, all the great flavor is still there. Garnished with fresh fruit and mint it looks good, too.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 90; Fat: 5 grams; Sodium: 124 mg; Cholesterol: 135 mg; Protein: 7 grams; Carbohydrates: 5 grams; Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 milk, 1/2 lean meat

CHICKEN WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATES

Yield: 4 servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=868

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/868.shtml

Source: Magic Menus for People with Diabetes

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 pound total), trimmed of cartilage and fat

1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1 tablespoon canola oil

1 large shallot, minced

2/3 cup low-sodium, low-fat chicken broth

1/2 cup dry white wine

1/8 teaspoon marjoram

1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrated in small bowl water

Directions

Cut each chicken breast half into 6 equal parts. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Saute chicken in oil over moderate heat, turning, until the chicken is just opaque throughout, 4-5 minutes.

Remove chicken with a slotted spoon. Add shallot to the skillet and sauté, stirring until softened, about 1 minute. Add broth, wine (much of the alcohol will evaporate, leaving only the flavor), marjoram, and tomatoes.

Bring to a boil over moderate heat and cook, uncovered, for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer, gently spooning the sauce over the chicken, until heated through. Simmer until sauce is reduced by half.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 177; Protein: 27 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 155 mg; Cholesterol: 64 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 3 g; Exchanges: 4 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 Fat

BUN-LESS CHEDDAR BURGERS

This recipe begins, “Skip the bun and instead, wrap this juicy cheeseburger in lettuce for a low-carb meal.”

This is from Diabetic Connect and can be found at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/3084-cheddar-turkey-burgers.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

6 slices of reduced-fat cheddar cheese

6 large lettuce leaves

Directions

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients except for cheddar cheese and lettuce leaves; mix well. Form into 6 equal-sized patties.

Coat a large skillet with nonstick cooking spray and cook the patties over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the juices run clear and no pink remains.

Once cooked, remove from skillet and place one slice of cheese on top of each patty.

Add your favorite condiments (onions, tomato slices, pickles, etc.).

Wrap each patty in a lettuce leaf and serve.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 6; Calories - 182; Total Fat - 5 g; Sat Fat - 3 g; Cholesterol - 86 mg; Sodium - 298 mg; Carbohydrates - 1 g; Dietary Fiber - 0 g; Protein - 33 g

Monday, August 28, 2017

Meatless Monday

It's Monday, exactly one week until Labor Day. While summer might technically be around for almost another whole month, Labor Day usually signals the end of summer around the U.S. (Sorry for reminding everyone of that!). But over the next week, I'll be posting several recipes to help you enjoy the Labor Day weekend.

In the meantime, it's Meatless Monday, time for six yummy meatless recipes to help you through the day, including Summer Ratatouille and Blueberry Yogurt Pops. Enjoy!

QUINOA SALAD

Yield: 4 servings (1/2 cup each)

Source: The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/852.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 cup raw quinoa, rinsed

1/4 cup finely chopped yellow pepper

1/4 cup finely chopped red pepper

1/4 cup finely chopped carrot

1/4 cup finely chopped celery

2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

1-1/2 tablespoons olive oil

4 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons minced green onions

Fresh ground pepper and salt to taste

Directions

Prepare the quinoa. Rinse the quinoa in a fine sieve for 20 seconds.

In a 1-quart saucepan bring 1-1/2 cups water to a boil.

Add the quinoa and bring to a boil.

Lower the heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile prepare the vegetables. Combine the chopped yellow pepper, red pepper, carrot, celery, and parsley in a medium bowl.

In a blender, combine the oil, vinegar, garlic, green onions, salt, and pepper. Blend for 15 seconds.

Once the quinoa is cooked, add it to the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetables and toss well.

Refrigerate for 1 hour. Serve over lettuce if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 125; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 12 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Sugars: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat

CALIFORNIA AVOCADO TZATZKIK

Yield: 8 servings

Source: California Avocado Commission

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/847.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups plain yogurt

1/2 English cucumber, seeded and diced

2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh dill

1 ripe Fresh California Avocado, halved, seeded and cut into 1/4-inch cubes

1 tsp. finely chopped garlic

Salt, to taste

Directions

In a small bowl, combine all ingredients. Refrigerate to allow flavors to blend.

Garnish with avocado and dill, if desired.

Serve with vegetable dippers or toasted pita bread triangles.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 65; Protein: 3.25 g; Fat: 3.4 g; Sodium: 100 mg; Cholesterol: 3 mg; Saturated Fat: 0.7 g; Dietary Fiber: 0.8 g; Carbohydrates: 6 g

EGGPLANT POLENTA STACK

This recipe begins, “Purchase package flavored polenta in the produce section; choose any favorite flavor for this dish.”

Yield: 4 servings

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes For People with Diabetes

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/846.shtml

Ingredients

8 slices (3/4 inch) eggplant (about 1 pound)

2 egg whites, lightly beaten or 1/4 cup no-cholesterol real egg product

1/2 cup Italian-seasoned dry bread crumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Olive oil cooking spray

1 package (16 ounces) prepared Italian-herb polenta, cut into 8 slices

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 – 4 ounces reduced-fat feta, or goat, cheese, crumbled

Directions

Dip eggplant slices in egg whites and coat with combined bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Spray large skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat until hot. Cook eggplant until browned on the bottom, about 10 minutes; spray tops of slices with cooking spray and turn. Cook until eggplant is tender and browned on other side, about 10 minutes longer.

Arrange eggplant in baking pan; top each slice with a slice of polenta and tomato. Sprinkle tomatoes with salt and pepper; sprinkle stack with feta cheese.

Bake at 450 degrees F. until tomatoes are hot and cheese lightly browned, about 10 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 222; Protein: 10.9 g; Fat: 4.5 g; Sodium: 624 mg; Cholesterol: 9 mg; Carbohydrates: 35 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 2 Bread/Starch, 1 Fat

CANTALOUPE COOLER

Preparation time: 5 minutes.

This is from Diabetes Self-Management, and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

1 cup cubed cantaloupe

1/2 cup nonfat, no-sugar-added vanilla yogurt

1/4 teaspoon lemon juice

1 packet NutraSweet

Dash cinnamon

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Yield: 1 serving. Serving size: 1 cooler.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 108, Carbohydrates: 20 g, Protein: 6 g, Fat: less than 1 g, Saturated Fat: 0 g, Sodium: 128 mg, Fiber: 2 g, Exchanges per serving: 1 fruit, 1/2 skim milk. Carbohydrate choices: 1 1/2.

BLUEBERRY YOGURT POPS

Only three ingredients make up this natural and healthy treat.

This recipe is from Diabetic Connect, and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

2 teaspoons honey

1 cup frozen blueberries

Directions

Place all the ingredients into a bowl and mix well.

Spoon the ingredients into the mold and place the lid on top or add in some ice-cream sticks.

Place in the freezer overnight.

To remove easily, run a little hot water over the mold to release the popsicle.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 4; Calories – 64; Total Fat – 0 g; Saturated Fat – 0 g; Sodium – 26 mg; Carbohydrates – 11 g; Fiber – 1 g; Protein – 6 g

SUMMER RATATOUILLE

Yield: 4 (1 cup) servings

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/857.shtml

Source: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil, divided

3 cups combination sliced zucchini and yellow squash

1 cup sliced onion

1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

1/3 cup minced fresh mint leaves

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 (4.75 oz) can prepared eggplant caponata

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Directions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil. Add the zucchini and yellow squash and onion and saute for 5-7 minutes until tender, stirring often.

Remove the zucchini-yellow squash saute to a salad bowl. Add remaining ingredients and let stand at room temperature for 1 hour.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 299 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1 Fat

Saturday, August 26, 2017

Desserts

I only post on Saturdays occasionally...and this is one of those occasions.

Many people, when they are first diagnosed with diabetes (or have a loved-one who is), figure that food will become boring, with no options for yummy desserts. These six recipes show how far from the truth that idea is, including Sweet Potato Pie (yum!) and Blueberry Yogurt Pops. Enjoy!

LIGHT LEMON CAKE

Yield: 20 servings

Source: Diabetic Dream Desserts

Ingredients

1 box (1 pound, 2.25 ounces) white or lemon cake mix

1 cup water

1/2 cup nonfat or light sour cream

1/2 cup fat-free egg substitute

2 packages (4-serving size each) sugar-free lemon gelatin mix

1 cup boiling water

1 cup cold tap water

Frosting:

2 cups nonfat or light whipped topping

3/4 cup light lemon yogurt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Place the cake mix, water, sour cream, and egg substitute in a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer for 2 minutes.

Coat a 9-by-13 inch pan with cooking spray and spread the mixture evenly in the pan.

Bake for about 30 minutes, or just until the top springs back when lightly touched and a wooden toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.

Let the cake cool to room temperature. Then, using a fork, poke holes in the cake at 1/2-inch intervals.

Place the gelatin mix in a medium bowl and add the boiling water. Whisk for 2 minutes or until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Stir in the cold water.

Slowly pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, allowing it to be absorbed.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

To make the frosting, place the whipped topping in a small bowl and fold in the yogurt. Spread the frosting over the cake and chill for an additional hour before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 138; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 218 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Exchanges: 2 Carbohydrate, 1/2 Fat

SWEET POTATO PIE

Yield: 1 pie (8 servings)

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/805.shtml

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Ingredients

3 tablespoons margarine

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 large egg yolk

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3 large sweet potatoes (1-1/2 pounds total), cooked, peeled, and mashed

1 cup fat-free evaporated milk

3 large egg whites

1 prepared 9-inch pie shell, unbaked

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Beat together the margarine, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add the egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cinnamon; mix well. Stir in the sweet potatoes and milk; mix again.

Beat the egg whites to stiff peaks and fold them into the sweet potato mixture; pour into the pie shell.

Bake for about 40 to 50 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool and cut the pie in 8 equal slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 291 ; Protein: 7 g ; Fat: 13 g ; Sodium: 313 mg; Cholesterol: 28 mg; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Sugars: 17 g; Carbohydrates: 38 g; Exchanges: 2-1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 2 Fat

CAPPUCCINO PIE

Yield: 8 servings

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/838.shtml

Source: Diabetic Dream Desserts

Ingredients

1/2 cup room temperature coffee

1 envelope (1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin

1/4 cup coffee liqueur

1 cup nonfat or light ricotta cheese

Sugar substitute equal to 1/3 cup sugar

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 cups nonfat or light whipped topping

1 Chocolate-Almond Piecrust (click for recipe)

1-1/2 tablespoons shaved dark chocolate

Directions

Place 2 tablespoons of the coffee in a blender.

Sprinkle the gelatin over the coffee and let sit for 2 minutes.

Bring the remaining coffee to a boil and pour over the mixture in the blender. Blend for 1 minute, until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Set aside for 5 minutes to cool slightly.

Add the liqueur to the blender mixture and blend to mix.

Add the ricotta, sugar substitute, and cinnamon and blend until smooth.

Pour the mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until the consistency of pudding.

Whisk until smooth and then fold in the whipped topping.

Spread the ricotta mixture into the piecrust, swirling the top.

Sprinkle the chocolate over the top.

Cover and chill for at least 3 hours, or until set.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 208; Protein: 7.2 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 128 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1.1 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g; Exchanges: 2 Carbohydrate: 1-1/2 Fat

REALLY RASPBERRY PARFAITS

Yield: 4 servings

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/837.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup light raspberry yogurt

1/2 cup nonfat or light whipped topping

2 cups fresh raspberries, rinsed and patted dry

2 tablespoons sliced almonds

Directions

Place the yogurt in a bowl and fold in the whipped topping.

Place 1/4 cup of raspberries in each of four 8-ounce wine glasses.

Top the berries in each glass with 3 tablespoons of the yogurt mixture.

Repeat the layers and top each serving with a sprinkling of almonds.

Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 83; Protein: 2.7 g; Fat: 2.3 g; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Dietary Fiber: 4.5 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Exchanges: 1 Carbohydrate, 1/2 Fat

BLUEBERRY YOGURT POPS

Only three ingredients make up this natural and healthy treat.

This recipe is from , and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

2 teaspoons honey

1 cup frozen blueberries

Directions

Place all the ingredients into a bowl and mix well.

Spoon the ingredients into the mold and place the lid on top or add in some ice-cream sticks.

Place in the freezer overnight.

To remove easily, run a little hot water over the mold to release the popsicle.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 4; Calories – 64; Total Fat – 0 g; Saturated Fat – 0 g; Sodium – 26 mg; Carbohydrates – 11 g; Fiber – 1 g; Protein – 6 g

BAKED VANILLA CUSTARD

Recipe Yield: Yield: 10 servings

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/baked-vanilla-custard

Ingredients

1 quart 2% milk

6 eggs

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons Equal® Spoonful*

2-1/2 teaspoons vanilla

1/4 teaspoon salt

Sliced fresh fruit (optional)

Fresh mint (optional)

* May substitute 27 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Heat milk just to boiling in medium saucepan. Let cool 5 minutes.

Beat eggs, Equal, vanilla and salt in large bowl until smooth. Gradually beat in hot milk.

Pour mixture into ten 6-ounce custard cups or 1-1/2 quart glass casserole. Place custard cups or casserole in roasting pan. Pour 1 inch of hot water into roasting pan.

Bake, uncovered, in preheated 325F oven 50 to 60 minutes or until sharp knife inserted halfway between center and edge of custard comes out clean.

Remove custard cups or casserole from roasting pan. Cool completely on wire rack.

Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight.

Serve garnished with sliced fresh fruit and mint, if desired.

Notes:

Traditional baked custard with half the calories. Made with Equal and reduced-fat milk, all the great flavor is still there. Garnished with fresh fruit and mint it looks good, too.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 90; Fat: 5 grams; Sodium: 124 mg; Cholesterol: 135 mg; Protein: 7 grams; Carbohydrates: 5 grams; Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 milk, 1/2 lean meat

Friday, August 25, 2017

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday. Here are six yummy diabetic recipes that dispel any myths about diabetic food being boring, including Beef Ragout and Vanilla Cream Puffs. Enjoy!

CHICKEN SALAD STUFFED AVOCADO

Makes 4 servings.

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1262.shtml

Ingredients

2 medium avocados

Juice of 1 lime

2 cups chopped cooked chicken breast, about 1/2-inch pieces

2 Tbsp. chopped red cabbage

2 Tbsp. diced carrots

2 Tbsp. diced radish

4 tsp. spicy brown mustard

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. extra virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Lime wedges for garnish

Directions

Carefully cut avocados in half lengthwise. Remove pits. Scoop out pulp into mixing bowl and set avocado shells aside.

Add lime juice and mash avocado. Add chicken, cabbage, carrots, radish, mustard, garlic powder, olive oil, salt and pepper to taste and mix gently to combine.

Spoon mixture into avocado shells, mounding in the center and serve immediately with lime wedges. Or serve immediately on whole-grain bread for sandwiches or whole-wheat tortilla for wraps.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 290; Protein: 29 g; Fat: 16 g; Sodium: 146 mg; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Dietary Fiber: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g

BEEF RAGOUT

Yield: About 6 cups

Servings: 8 (3/4 cup) servings

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/716.shtml

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

WARM BROWNIE WEDGES WITH JAVA CREAM

This recipe begins, “Dense wedges of chewy chocolate are paired with a sweet coffee-flavored cream and fresh berries.”

Yield 8 servings

Serving size 1/8 brownie, 2 tablespoons cream and 1/4 cup berries

Source: The Heart-Smart Diabetes Kitchen

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1263.shtml

Ingredients

Wedges

Canola oil cooking spray

2/3 cup all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled

1/3 cup white whole-wheat flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 tablespoon instant coffee granules

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup packed brown sugar substitute blend

1/3 cup canola oil

1/2 cup egg substitute

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cream

2 tablespoons water

1 teaspoon instant coffee granules

4 ounces fat-free whipped topping

1 cup fresh raspberries

1 cup blackberries or blueberries

Directions

Preheat oven to 325F. Coat 9-inch, nonstick springform pan or cake pan with canola oil cooking spray.

Combine flours, cocoa and baking powders, 1 tablespoon coffee granules and salt in medium bowl.

Combine sugar, canola oil, egg substitute and vanilla in another medium bowl; mix well.

Add sugar mixture to flour mixture, and stir until just blended. Batter will be very thick. Spoon into bottom of pan; spread evenly by coating the back of a spoon with cooking spray.

Bake for 11 minutes or until slightly puffed. (Mixture will not be completely cooked at this point, but it will continue to cook while standing without overcooking and drying out.)

Place pan on a wire rack, and let cool for 5 minutes.

Remove sides of the pan and gently remove from bottom or leave on bottom and place on a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.

When cooled completely, store in an airtight container at room temperature.

To make cream:

Combine water with 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules in a medium bowl, and stir until dissolved. Add whipped topping; whisk until a sauce consistency is reached.

For thinner sauce, add 1 to 2 tablespoons water or milk. Refrigerate until needed. To serve, cut into wedges, spoon mocha cream on top, and sprinkle with berries.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 260; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 145 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 36 g

ELBOW MACARONI SALAD (INSALATA DI GOMITI DI PASTA)

This recipe begins, “A cool delicious summertime treat that is sure to be a welcomed side dish at any family barbeque or block party. A great traditional pasta salad perfect for summer grilling! Keep the salad cold by placing the salad bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice.”

Source: Dreamfields Healthy Carb Pasta

Author: Chef Antonio Cecconi

Serves 8 (side dish servings)

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/717.shtml

Ingredients

16 ounces Dreamfields Elbows (one box)

1 cup light sour cream

1/2 cup low-fat mayonnaise

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/2 cup chopped green onion

1 cup cucumber, diced 1/2-inch

1 cup broccoli floret tops

1/4 cup carrot, chopped

Directions

Prepare pasta according to package directions. Rinse under cold water and drain well.

Mix together sour cream, mayonnaise, parsley, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Combine dressing with vegetables.

Add pasta and toss gently with other ingredients until well coated. Refrigerate at least one hour prior to serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 213; Protein: 7 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 326 mg; Cholesterol: 10 mg; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g

VANILLA CREAM PUFFS

The recipe begins, “Fluffy pastry shells filled with a thick vanilla custard and drizzled with chocolate sauce.”

Yield: 12 Servings

Serving Size: 1 cream puff

View recipe and photo here: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1187.shtml

Cream Puffs Ingredients

1 cup water

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 tablespoon Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1/4 cup butter

1 cup all-purpose flour

4 large eggs

Custard Filling Ingredients

2 tablespoons Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 cups 1% low-fat milk

2 egg yolks, lightly beaten

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3/4 cup commercial chocolate sauce

Directions

Cream Puff Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Combine water, salt, Splenda Granulated Sweetener and butter in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until butter melts.

Add flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until mixture leaves sides of pan and forms a smooth ball. The mixture resembles mashed potatoes. Remove from heat; cool 5 minutes.

Transfer mixture to a mixing bowl. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed with an electric mixer. Scrap down the sides of bowl occasionally and beat until batter is smooth.

Spoon mixture heaping tablespoonfuls onto an ungreased baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between puffs.

Bake immediately for 35 minutes or until puffs are golden brown and have a crisp shell. (Do not open the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking time.) Remove from oven and cool on wire racks.

Custard Filling Directions:

Combine Splenda Granulated Sweetener and cornstarch in a heavy saucepan; gradually stir in milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 6 minutes or until mixture comes to a boil. Cook 1 additional minute, stirring constantly. Gradually stir about 1/4 the hot mixture into egg yolks; add to remaining hot mixture, stirring constantly. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, reduce heat and cook 3 minutes, stirring constantly.

Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and strain mixture through a sieve; cover the surface of the custard with wax paper or plastic wrap to prevent a film from forming on the surface.

Cut tops off and fill with 2 1/2 tablespoons custard; replace tops and drizzle with 1 tablespoon chocolate sauce. Serve immediately.

Storage:

Store baked unfilled cream puff shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within 24 hours or freeze up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 200; Calories from Fat: 80; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 9 g; Sodium: 180 mg; Cholesterol: 120 mg; Saturated Fat: 4.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 12 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g

MEXICAN CHICKEN SOUP

Yield: 10 servings. Serving Size: 1-1/2 cups. May be viewed online at http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1206.shtml

Ingredients

1 Tbsp canola oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, sliced

4 celery stalks, sliced

1/8 tsp ground black pepper

2 tsp cumin

1 tsp red pepper flakes

8 cups low-sodium chicken stock

2/3 cup lentils

1 can (19 oz) tomatoes, chopped

3 medium carrots, thinly sliced

2 lbs cooked chicken, cubed

1 small zucchini, thinly sliced

1 cup frozen peas

1 small avocado, peeled and sliced

Directions

In Dutch oven, heat canola oil. Add garlic, onion and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender. Season with black pepper, cumin and red pepper flakes.

Add chicken stock, lentils, tomatoes and carrots. Simmer, covered, 30 minutes, or until carrots are tender.

Add chicken, zucchini and peas.

Cover and simmer 10 to 15 minutes longer, or until vegetables are tender. Garnish with avocado slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 250; Protein: 33 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 280 mg; Cholesterol: 75 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Thursday Recipes

Here are today's six yummy recipes to help you through the day, including Very Blueberry Sundaes and Chicken Cordon Bleu. Enjoy!

SPINACH SOUFFLE

Serves: 4

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/292.shtml

Ingredients

1 small onion, minced

1 teaspoon margarine

3 tablespoons flour

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 cup fat-free milk

1/2 cup reduced-sodium vegetable broth

2 egg yolks, lightly beaten

1 package (10-oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed, well drained

Pinch white pepper

4 egg whites

Pinch cream of tartar

Directions

Saute onion in margarine in medium saucepan until tender; stir in flour and nutmeg and cook 1 to 2 minutes. Whisk in milk and broth and heat to boiling, whisking until thickened. Whisk about half the sauce into egg yolks; whisk yolk mixture into saucepan. Mix in spinach and white pepper.

Beat egg whites and cream of tartar in large bowl to stiff, but not dry, peaks; fold into spinach mixture and spoon into souffle dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F. until puffed and browned, about 40 minutes. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 118; Protein: 9.7 g; Fat: 3.9 g; Sodium: 167 mg; Cholesterol: 107.1 mg; Carbohydrates: 12.1 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Bread, 1 Meat

VERY BLUEBERRY SUNDAES

Yield: 4 servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=793

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/793.shtml

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Ingredients

Sauce:1 cup frozen blueberries

3 tablespoons orange juice OR 2 tablespoons orange juice plus 1 tablespoon orange liqueur

Sugar substitute equal to 2 tablespoons sugar

Rest of ingredients:

2 cups low-fat vanilla ice cream

1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or sliced toasted almonds

Directions

To make the sauce, place the blueberries, orange juice, and sugar substitute in a mini food processor and process until smooth.

Set aside for about 15 minutes, until the mixture has thawed. Or transfer to a covered container and chill until ready to use.

To assemble the sundaes, place a 1/2 cup scoop of ice cream in each of 4 dessert dishes. Top the ice cream in each dish with a quarter of the sauce and a sprinkling of the nuts. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 176; Protein: 3.9 g; Fat: 7.6 g; Sodium: 50 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 2.8 g; Carbohydrates: 25 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Carbohydrate, 1-1/2 Fat

LEMONY SUGAR SNAP AND CHICKEN STIR-FRY

Yield: 4 servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=824

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/824.shtml

Source: The Eating Well Diabetes Cookbook

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of fat

1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Freshly ground pepper to taste

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

12 ounces sugar snap peas or snow peas (4 cups), trimmed of stem ends and strings

1 (14 ounce) can reduced-sodium chicken broth

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Cut chicken into 1-by-2-inch strips; season with salt and pepper. Place flour in a shallow pan and dredge the chicken strips in it, shaking off excess. (Discard any leftover flour.)

Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add peas and stir-fry until bright green, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl.

Add the remaining 2 teaspoons oil to the pan and heat on high until very hot. Add chicken and cook, stirring, until lightly browned and opaque in the center, about 4 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a bowl with the peas.

Add broth and garlic to the pan; cook until reduced to 1 cup, 5 to 7 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and return the chicken and peas to the pan. Cook until heated through. Add parsley, lemon zest and lemon juice. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 263; Protein: 31 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 290 mg; Cholesterol: 68 mg; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Other Vegetable, 1 Vegetable, 4 Very Lean Meat

HERB BREAD

Makes one 1-lb loaf, 8 slices

16 servings (1/2 slice is 1 serving)

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/301.shtml

Ingredients

1 teaspoon Fast-rising yeast OR 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast

2 cups Bread flour

1 tablespoon Dry milk

1 tablespoon Sugar

1 teaspoon Salt

1 teaspoon Dried chives

1 teaspoon Marjoram

1 teaspoon Thyme

1 teaspoon Basil

1 tablespoon Margarine or butter

7/8 cup Water (77-95F)

Directions

Place all ingredients in the bread machine in the order suggested in your operator's manual. (If using fresh herbs, double the amount called for.) Select the white bread mode; press start. This recipe can be made with regular, rapid or delayed-time bake cycles.

Makes one 1-pound loaf, for 16 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 64; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 145 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Exchanges: 2-1/2 Bread/Starch

CHICKEN CORDON BLEU

This recipe begins, “This recipe was once the ultimate in gourmet dining. The ham-and-cheese stuffed chicken breasts are still delicious in their low-fat form!”

Serves: 6

Source: 1,001 Recipes For People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/318.shtml

Ingredients

6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)

4 ounces sliced fat-free Swiss cheese

3 ounces lean smoked ham

Flour

2 egg whites, beaten

1/3 cup unseasoned dry bread crumbs

Vegetable cooking spray

Directions

Pound chicken breasts with flat side of meat mallet until very thin and even in thickness. Layer cheese and ham on chicken breasts, cutting to fit. Roll up chicken and secure with toothpicks.

Coat chicken rolls lightly with flour; dip in egg whites and coat in bread crumbs. Spray rolls generously with cooking spray and cook in skillet over medium heat until browned on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes.

Place chicken in baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees, uncovered, until cooked through, about 30 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 210; Protein: 34.6 g; Fat: 3.9 g; Sodium: 540 mg; Cholesterol: 73.2 mg ; Carbohydrates: 6.3 g; Exchanges: 4 Meat

MEDITTERANEAN TURKEY BURGERS WITH FETA

This is from Diabetes Self-Management, and can be viewed online here.

Yield: 4 servings. Serving size: 1 burger.

Ingredients

4 white turkey burgers (95% lean)

1/3 cup plain nonfat yogurt

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup diced plum tomato

1/4 cup chopped cucumber

1/4 cup chopped pitted kalamata olives

1/4 cup fat-free crumbled feta cheese

2 (6-inch) whole wheat pita bread rounds, halved and warmed

Directions

Grill burgers over medium heat 6 to 8 minutes per side or until fully cooked (165°F), turning twice.

Combine yogurt, onion, tomato, cucumber, olives, and feta in small bowl. Serve burgers and feta mixture in pita halves.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 292, Carbohydrates: 21 g, Protein: 30 g, Fat: 10 g, Saturated Fat: 3 g, Cholesterol: 80 mg, Sodium: 413 mg, Fiber: 3 g, Exchanges per serving: 1 1/2 Bread/Starch, 3 Meat.

Wednesday, August 23, 2017

Wednesday Recipes

It's Wednesday, half-way through the work week. Whoo-hoo! Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the day, including Turkey Casserole and Herb Bread. Enjoy!

ORANGE-LIME SWEET POTATOES

Servings: 6 (about 1/2 cup each)

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/297.shtml

Ingredients

Butter-flavored vegetable cooking spray

1 cup chopped onion

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 cup orange juice

1/4 cup lime juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Spray medium skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Saute onion and garlic 3 to 4 minutes.

Add sweet potatoes and juices to skillet; heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. Cook, uncovered, until sauce is thickened, 8 to 10 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Nutritional Information Per Serving; Calories: 95; Protein: 1.7 g; Fat: 0.3 g; Sodium: 9 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 22.3 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Fruit, 1 Bread/Starch

HERB BREAD

Makes one 1-lb loaf, 8 slices

16 servings (1/2 slice is 1 serving)

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/301.shtml

Ingredients

1 teaspoon Fast-rising yeast OR 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast

2 cups Bread flour

1 tablespoon Dry milk

1 tablespoon Sugar

1 teaspoon Salt

1 teaspoon Dried chives

1 teaspoon Marjoram

1 teaspoon Thyme

1 teaspoon Basil

1 tablespoon Margarine or butter

7/8 cup Water (77-95F)

Directions

Place all ingredients in the bread machine in the order suggested in your operator's manual. (If using fresh herbs, double the amount called for.) Select the white bread mode; press start. This recipe can be made with regular, rapid or delayed-time bake cycles.

Makes one 1-pound loaf, for 16 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 64; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 145 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Exchanges: 2-1/2 Bread/Starch

IRISH BEEF POT ROAST WITH VEGETABLES

Yield: 8 servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=832

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/832.shtml

Ingredients

1 boneless beef bottom round rump roast or beef bottom round (3 to 3-1/4 pounds)

2 packages (24 ounces each) fresh pot roast vegetables (potatoes, onions, carrots, celery)

2 packages (.75 to .88 ounces each) mushroom or brown gravy mix

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup beer

Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

Prepare pot roast vegetables: cut potatoes in half (or into quarters if large), onions into 1/2-inch wedges, and carrots and celery into 2-inch pieces; set aside.

Combine gravy mixes, flour, salt and pepper in large bowl. Add vegetables to bowl; toss to coat well. Remove vegetables from flour mixture and place in 5 to 6-quart slow cooker.

Add beef roast to bowl, turning to coat evenly with flour mixture. Remove roast and place in slow cooker in center of vegetables.

Whisk beer into remaining flour mixture until smooth; add to slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW 10 to 11 hours, or on HIGH 6 to 7 hours, or until beef and vegetables are fork-tender. (No stirring is necessary during cooking.)

Remove roast and vegetables. Skim fat from gravy. Carve roast into thin slices. Serve with vegetables and gravy. Sprinkle with parsley, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 318; Protein: 39 g; Fat: 9 g; Sodium: 516 mg; Cholesterol: 112 mg; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 17 g

VEGGIE PATCH SOUP

Yield: 10 servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=835

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/835.shtml

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

Ingredients

6 cups water

2 medium-sized white potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

4 large tomatoes, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks

4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

3 medium-sized zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks

2 medium-sized green bell peppers, coarsely chopped

2 medium-sized onions, coarsely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1-1/2 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

In a soup pot, combine all the ingredients; mix well and bring to a boil over high heat.

Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 84; Protein: 2 g; Sodium: 383 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 2 Vegetable

SWEET POTATO HASH

This recipe begins, “A warm and savory bowl of sausage, sweet potato, and squash perfect for cool nights.”

This is from Diabetic Connect and can be found online here.

Ingredients

1 large orange sweet potato, peeled and diced

1 large white sweet potato, peeled and diced

1/2 lb. mild Italian sausage

1/2 medium onion, diced

1/2 green pepper, diced

1/2 red pepper, diced

1/2 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp onion salt

1 TBSP fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Boil the potatoes until mostly tender but not mushy. Strain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium high heat, cook the sausage until no longer pink. Pour onto a plate lined with paper towel. Set aside.

Return the skillet to medium high heat and sauté peppers and onion until mostly tender.

Add potatoes and seasonings and cook until potatoes start to brown.

Add sausage and toss. Cook 1-2 more minutes.

Top with parsley and serve.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 4; Calories: 273; Total Fat: 18 g; Saturated Fat – 6 g; Sodium – 457 mg; Carbohydrates – 18 g; Fiber – 3 g; Sugars – 5 g; Protein – 10 g

TURKEY CASSEROLE

Serves: 4

Source: Light and Easy Diabetes Cuisine

Author: Betty Marks

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/319.shtml

Ingredients

4 ounces vegetable elbow or shell macaroni

1/2 pound ground turkey

1/4 cup chopped onion

1 garlic clove, minced

1/2 cup tomato sauce

1/2 teaspoon dried leaf thyme

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

Pepper to Taste

1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cook macaroni until al dente, being careful not to overcook. Drain and rinse under cold water. Coat an 8-inch square baking pan or casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.

In a large non-stick skillet, cook turkey, onion and garlic until meat is browned. Drain off fat. Stir in macaroni, tomato sauce, thyme, cinnamon, salt and pepper. Spoon into casserole dish and top with cheese. Bake 30 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 241; Protein: 17 g; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 253 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Exchanges: 2 Meat, 1 Starch/Bread, 1 Vegetable

Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Soup and an Article

If you're diabetic, you know that you should be monitoring your blood sugar. Diabetes Self-Management has a good article titled “Blood Sugar Monitoring: When to Check and Why.” It has a lot of good information. To read the article, click here.

And now for today's six soup recipes to help you through the day, including Broccoli Chowder and Calyso Beef Soup. Enjoy!

CALYPSO BEEF SOUP

This recipe starts off, “This recipe is an excellent source of protein, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, iron, selenium and zinc; and a good source of fiber.”

Makes 6 servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=819

Online version with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/819.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds 95% ground beef

1 cup diced peeled sweet potato

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper

1 teaspoon curry powder

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups water or ready-to-serve beef broth

1 can (15-1/2 ounces) black-eyed peas, rinsed, drained

1 can (13-1/2 ounces) light unsweetened coconut milk

2 cups packed fresh baby spinach leaves

3 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme

Salt and ground black pepper

Directions

Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot.

Add ground beef; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into 3/4-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally.

Remove from skillet with slotted spoon. Pour off drippings in pan; add sweet potato, onion, bell pepper and curry powder.

Cook 4 to 5 minutes or until onion and pepper are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally.

Stir in flour; cook and stir 1 minute.

Stir in water, black-eyed peas and coconut milk; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat; cover and simmer 5 to 8 minutes or until sweet potato is tender.

Stir in spinach and thyme. Cook 1 minute or until spinach wilts.

Season with salt and black pepper, as desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 308; Protein: 30 g; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 327 mg; Cholesterol: 76 mg; Saturated Fat: 6 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g

CHICKEN GUMBO SOUP

Yield: 6 servings

Serving Size: 1 cup

Source: The New Soul Food Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/279.shtml

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

3 cups reduced-sodium, reduced-fat chicken broth, divided

3 cups water

1 cup chopped onion

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1 bay leaf

1/8 tsp sage

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

1/4 tsp thyme

1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes

1 cup corn kernels, frozen or fresh

1 cup frozen okra

2 Tbsp canola oil

1/4 cup flour

2 cups cooked brown rice

Directions

Place the chicken in a large soup pot with 1 cup of broth. Bring to a boil.

Add the additional broth, water, onion, garlic, salt (omit this if you need to reduce total sodium), pepper, bay leaf, sage, red pepper flakes, and thyme and simmer for 20 minutes.

Add the tomatoes, corn, and okra and simmer for 15 minutes.

In a separate pan, heat the oil and flour and stir until the flour and oil are golden brown and bubbly, stirring constantly. Add 1 cup of the soup broth to the mixture and whisk until smooth.

Add the mixture back to the soup pot and whisk until dissolved. Simmer 30 minutes. Stir in the rice the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 279; Protein: 23 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 720 mg; Cholesterol: 43 mg; Carbohydrates: 31 g; Exchanges: 2-1/2 Starch; 2 Lean Meat

VEGGIE PATCH SOUP

Yield: 10 servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=835

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/835.shtml

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

Ingredients

6 cups water

2 medium-sized white potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

4 large tomatoes, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks

4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

3 medium-sized zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks

2 medium-sized green bell peppers, coarsely chopped

2 medium-sized onions, coarsely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1-1/2 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

In a soup pot, combine all the ingredients; mix well and bring to a boil over high heat.

Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 84; Protein: 2 g; Sodium: 383 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 2 Vegetable

BROCCOLI CHOWDER

Yield: 6 servings, 1 cup each

Source: "The Eating Well Diabetes Cookbook"

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 large onion, chopped (1-1/2 cups)

1 large carrot, diced (1/2 cup)

2 stalks celery, diced (1/2 cup)

1 large potato, peeled and diced (1-1/2 cups)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon dry mustard

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

3-1/2 cups vegetable broth or reduced-sodium chicken broth (two 14-ounce cans)

8 ounces broccoli crowns, cut into 1-inch pieces, stems and florets separated (3 cups)

1 cup grated reduced-fat Cheddar cheese

1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream

1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Directions

Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot and celery; cook, stirring often, until the onion and celery soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add potato and garlic; cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Stir in flour, dry mustard and cayenne; cook, stirring often, for 2 minutes. Add broth and broccoli stems; bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to medium. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. Stir in florets; simmer, covered, until the broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes more.

Transfer 2 cups of the chowder to a bowl and mash; return to the pan. Stir in Cheddar and sour cream; cook over medium heat, stirring, until the cheese is melted and the chowder is heated through. Season with salt.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1 cup each): Calories: 180, Fat: 8 g, Cholesterol: 15 mg, Carbohydrate: 23 g, Protein: 6 g, Fiber: 4 g, Sodium: 354 mg Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Vegetable, 1 High-Fat Meat

SUMMER SOUP

Servings: 4 (1-cup servings)

Source: Light and Easy Diabetes Cuisine

Author: Betty Marks

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/312.shtml

Ingredients

2 cups water

Salt and pepper to taste

2 new potatoes, peeled, diced

2 carrots, sliced

6 fresh spinach leaves, chopped

1/2 cup fresh green peas or thawed frozen green peas

1 tablespoon arrowroot

1-1/2 cups skim milk

1/4 teaspoon red (cayenne) pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

In a medium-size saucepan, place water, salt, pepper, potatoes and carrots; bring to a boil. Cover and cook 10 minutes. Add the remaining vegetables and cook 5 minutes more.

Meanwhile, make a paste of the arrowroot and 3 tablespoons of the milk. Add remaining milk and stir into the vegetables. Add cayenne and simmer 5 minutes, until vegetables are tender. Garnish with parsley.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 97; Protein: 6 g; Sodium: 112 mg; Cholesterol: 2 mg; Carbohydrates: 18 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Milk, 2 Vegetable

GOULASH SOUP

Servings: 6

Source: Deliciously Healthy Favorite Foods Cookbook

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/243.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 pound lean round steak, cut into 1/2" cubes

4 cups water

1 beef bouillon cube

1 – 2 tablespoons paprika

1/2 teaspoon Morton Lite Salt Mixture

2 ounces tomato paste (or substitute 1 peeled tomato, cut up)

1 medium potato, peeled and diced

Directions

In a large, heavy soup pot sprayed with non-stick spray, stir-fry onion and garlic until golden brown. Remove from pot and set aside. Re-spray pot with non-stick spray and brown beef cubes over medium-high heat.

Add cooked onion and garlic to pot. Add water, bouillon cube, paprika, Morton Lite Salt Mixture and tomato paste or tomato. Cover and simmer for 4 hours. Add potato and simmer for 15 minutes longer.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 91; Protein: 10 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 290 mg; Cholesterol: 23.4 mg; Carbohydrates: 8.1 g; Exchanges: 1 Lean Meat, 1/2 Bread/Starch

Monday, August 21, 2017

Meatless Monday

It's Meatless Monday, time for six yummy diabetic vegetarian recipes, including Spinach Souffle and Fruitful Frozen Yogurt. Enjoy!

SLOW COOKER VEGETARIAN LASAGNA

This recipe begins, “This savory, vegetarian lasagna cooks is slow-cooked for three hours for a melt-in-your-mouth meal.”

This can be viewed at http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetic-recipes/general/7424-slow-cooker-vegetarian-lasagna

Ingredients

16 oz partly skim ricotta

3 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp pepper

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1 box lasagna noodles, UNCOOKED

28 oz diced tomatoes, drained

28 oz marinara sauce

1 handful flat leaf parsley, chopped

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

6 oz baby spinach (about 3-4 cups)

Directions

In a medium bowl add ricotta, peppers, red pepper flakes, oregano, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Combine well; set aside.

In another medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, and parsley; set aside.

In a 6 quart slow cooker, add about 1 cup of tomato mixture to the bottom (enough to just cover the bottom). Add a layer of noodles on top, breaking to fit. Add half the baby spinach. Add 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, loosely spreading it around with spatula. Top with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese then 1/3 of the remaining tomato mixture. Add another layer of noodles, then repeat layering with spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, and tomato mixture. Top with noodle layer, then remaining ricotta, tomatoes, and then mozzarella.

Cover and cook on low for 3 hours, or until the noodles are tender. (You may leave the slow cooker on "Warm" until ready to eat).

Remove cover and allow to cook for at least 15 minutes. Slice and serve.

Nutritional Facts: Servings 6; Amount Per Serving: Calories 350; Total Fat 19 g; Saturated Fat 10 g; Cholesterol 55mg; Sodium 840mg; Potassium 1020 mg; Carbohydrate 29g; Dietary Fiber 6g; Protein 19g

SPINACH SOUFFLE

Serves: 4

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/292.shtml

Ingredients

1 small onion, minced

1 teaspoon margarine

3 tablespoons flour

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 cup fat-free milk

1/2 cup reduced-sodium vegetable broth

2 egg yolks, lightly beaten

1 package (10-oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed, well drained

Pinch white pepper

4 egg whites

Pinch cream of tartar

Directions

Saute onion in margarine in medium saucepan until tender; stir in flour and nutmeg and cook 1 to 2 minutes. Whisk in milk and broth and heat to boiling, whisking until thickened. Whisk about half the sauce into egg yolks; whisk yolk mixture into saucepan. Mix in spinach and white pepper.

Beat egg whites and cream of tartar in large bowl to stiff, but not dry, peaks; fold into spinach mixture and spoon into souffle dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F. until puffed and browned, about 40 minutes. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 118; Protein: 9.7 g; Fat: 3.9 g; Sodium: 167 mg; Cholesterol: 107.1 mg; Carbohydrates: 12.1 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Bread, 1 Meat

FRUITFUL FROZEN YOGURT

Yield: 6 servings

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=841

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/841.shtml

Source: Diabetic Dream Desserts

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups frozen fruit, coarsely chopped and thawed (such as raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, or peaches)

4 cups light vanilla yogurt (or use the same flavor yogurt as the fruit you choose)

Sugar substitute equal for 1/4 cup sugar

Directions

Place the fruit and the accumulated juices in a large bowl and mash slightly with a fork.

Stir in the yogurt and sugar substitute.

Pour the mixture into a 1-1/2 quart ice cream maker and proceed as directed by the manufacturer.

Spoon into dessert dishes and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 114; Protein: 8 g; Fat: 0.4 g; Sodium: 122 mg; Cholesterol: 4 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Exchanges: 1 Carbohydrate

CREAMY SPINACH DIP

Yield: 16 servings

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons.

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=842

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/842.shtml

Source: The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible

Ingredients

1 (10 oz.) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained very well

1-1/2 cups low-fat sour cream

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

2 tablespoons minced mint

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup minced water chestnuts

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the spinach and set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, vinegar, mint, garlic, water chestnuts, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add the spinach and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 33; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 27 mg; Cholesterol: 7 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 3 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Carbohydrate

BROILED ZUCCHINI WITH LEMON, BASIL, AND HOT PEPPER

Servings: 6

Source: Mediterranean Light

Author: Martha Rose Shulman

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/306.shtml

Ingredients

1 pound (4 medium or 3 large) zucchini

Salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon hot pepper flakes

Salt and freshly ground pepper

Juice of 1 large lemon

1 Tablespoon slivered fresh basil leaves (about 12 large leaves)

Directions

Slice the zucchini on the diagonal so that you have longish oval slices about 1/4 inch thick. Slat and place in a colander and let sit 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry. Preheat the broiler and place the zucchini on on oiled baking sheet. Brush with the olive oil. Grill about 10 inches from teh heat source for 7 to 12 minutes, until still rbight green around the edges and just barely beginning to brown on top.

Remove from the heat and transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with the hot pepper flakes and salt and pepper to taste. Chill until shortly before serving. Just before serving, toss with the lemon juice and sprinkle on the basil.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 33; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 2 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 3 g

QUINOA SALAD

Yield: 4 servings (1/2 cup each)

Source: The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible

Print version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=852

Online version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/852.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 cup raw quinoa, rinsed

1/4 cup finely chopped yellow pepper

1/4 cup finely chopped red pepper

1/4 cup finely chopped carrot

1/4 cup finely chopped celery

2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

1-1/2 tablespoons olive oil

4 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons minced green onions

Fresh ground pepper and salt to taste

Directions

Prepare the quinoa. Rinse the quinoa in a fine sieve for 20 seconds.

In a 1-quart saucepan bring 1-1/2 cups water to a boil.

Add the quinoa and bring to a boil.

Lower the heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile prepare the vegetables. Combine the chopped yellow pepper, red pepper, carrot, celery, and parsley in a medium bowl.

In a blender, combine the oil, vinegar, garlic, green onions, salt, and pepper. Blend for 15 seconds.

Once the quinoa is cooked, add it to the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetables and toss well.

Refrigerate for 1 hour. Serve over lettuce if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 125; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 12 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Sugars: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat

Friday, August 18, 2017

Friday Recipes

Ah, Friday - the end of the work week. Here are six yummy diabetic recipes to help you through the weekend, including Mojo Marinated Grilled Turkey and Grilled Onion Burger. Enjoy!

MOCHA CHEESECAKE BARS

This recipe begins, “This bar cookie pairs a crunchy graham cracker with a creamy mint-flavored cheesecake filling to create a sumptious dessert.”

Serves: 20

Serving Size: 1 bar

View online with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1230.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/4 cups chocolate wafer crumbs

1/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1/3 cup light butter, melted

12 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese

2/3 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1-1/4 teaspoons instant espresso granules

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon cocoa powder

1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 cup white chocolate chunks

Directions

Crust Directions: preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Spray an 8-inch x 8-inch square baking pan with vegetable cooking spray. Set aside.

Combine chocolate wafer crumbs, Splenda Granulated Sweetener and butter in a mixing bowl, stirring until blended. Press mixture into prepared pan. Bake 5 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

Filling Directions: beat cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth.

Combine Splenda Granulated Sweetener, espresso granules, and cocoa powder; add to cream cheese, beating until blended.

Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Add sour cream and vanilla, beating, just until blended. Stir in chocolate chunks. Pour filling over prepared crust.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until firm; cool. Chill until firm. Cut into bars.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 120; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 120 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Saturated Fat: 4.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Sugars: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g

ALMOND CHEESECAKE BARS

This recipe begins, “Light and creamy cheesecake bars topped with toasted almonds.”

Serves: 20

Serving Size: 1 bar

View online with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1229.shtml

Ingredients

Crust:

1/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1-1/4 cups graham cracker or vanilla wafer crumbs

1/3 cup light butter, melted

1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds, finely ground

Filling:12 ounces reduced fat cream cheese

1/2 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

2 large eggs

1/4 cup reduced fat sour cream

2-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

1/4 cup toasted, sliced almonds

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Spray an 8x8 pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Mix crust ingredients together in a mixing bowl. Mix well. Press into prepared pan. Bake 10-12 minutes or until firm.

Mix cream cheese and Splenda Granulated Sweetener together until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, scraping the sides of the bowl, and mixing well after each addition. Add sour cream and extracts; mix well. Pour over prepared crust.

Bake in preheated oven for 40 to 47 minutes, or until firm. Top with toasted almonds.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 120; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 105 mg; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Saturated Fat: 3.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g ; Sugars: 4 g ; Carbohydrates: 8 g

MAYO-FREE CHICKEN SALAD

Makes 4 servings.

Find this recipe at: 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

GRILLED ONION BURGER

Here's a healthier version of a classic burger topped with grilled onions and all the fixings.

Makes 4 servings

View online with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1223.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds 95% lean ground beef

1 large sweet onion, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices

Vegetable oil

Salt and pepper

4 hamburger buns, split, toasted

Lettuce leaves

Tomato slices

Directions

Lightly shape Ground Beef into four 3/4-inch thick patties. Brush onion slices with oil.

Place patties and onion slices on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 11 to 15 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 13 to 14 minutes) until instant-read thermometer inserted horizontally into center registers 160F, turning occasionally. Grill onions, 10 to 12 minutes or until tender, brushing with oil and turning occasionally.

Season burgers and onions with salt and pepper as desired.

Line bottom of each bun with lettuce. Place burgers on top of lettuce. Top with tomatoes and grilled onions. Close bun.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 368; Protein: 39 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 324 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 27 g

MOJO MARINATED GRILLED TURKEY

This recipe begins, “There are many types of commercial mojo sauces available, but you can't beat creating your own.”

Makes 6 servings.

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1246.shtml

Ingredients

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

1/2 tsp. oregano

1/2 tsp. cumin

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1/2 tsp. fresh ground black pepper

Juice of 1 orange

2 limes juiced

4 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, divided

3/4 tsp. Kosher salt

2 pounds turkey breasts or thighs, skin removed

Directions

Mash spices, garlic, cilantro, salt and pepper to create paste. Mix paste with the citrus juices, and 2 Tbsp. olive oil. Add marinade to a sealable plastic bag and add turkey. Marinate for at least 2 hours.

For gas grill, clean grill rack. Set burners to high and close lid. Grill temperature should be about 500 degrees. Use indirect method by turning off burners directly beneath turkey and turning burners on either side to medium to low when cooking. For charcoal grills, use same technique, separating coals to create indirect heat.

Once fire is ready, remove excess marinade and place turkey parts on grill and cook for about 30 minutes. Turn over and brush with remaining olive oil. Continue this process – turning, basting and grilling.

Total cooking time is roughly 12 minutes per pound of turkey. Use a meat thermometer. Breast meat should be at 170 degrees and dark meat should be at 180 degrees.

Whether you use a gas or charcoal grill, keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat.

Cover turkey with foil and set aside for 5 minutes, then serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 225; Protein: 24 g; Fat: 13 g; Sodium: 350 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 0 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g

AVOCADO AND MANGO SALSA

Yield: 3 cups

Servings: 12 (1/4-cup) servings.

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/703.shtml

Ingredients

1 ripe avocado, peeled and diced

1 cup chopped ripe mango

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped

1/2 cup chopped jicama

Juice of 1 lime (2 tablespoons)

Salt and ground pepper

1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped

Directions

In a mixing bowl, combine the avocado, mango, jalapeno pepper, jicama, and lime juice.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Mix in the cilantro.

Let the salsa sit 20 minutes for flavors to meld before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 35; Protein: 0.5 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 0.5 mg; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat