It's the Great Pumpkin! (Part Two)

It's Halloween! Here are six pumpkin recipes to help you through the day, including Pumpkin Risotto and Pumpkin Cheesecake in Gingersnap Crust. Enjoy!



SPICY PUMPKIN SOUP WITH GREEN CHILE SWIRL

This is from Diabetes Self-Management and can be found online at https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/recipes/soups-stews/spicy-pumpkin-soup-with-green-chile-swirl/

Ingredients

1 can (4 ounces) diced mild green chiles

1/4 cup light sour cream, plus additional for garnish

1/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves

1 can (15 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin

1 can (about 14 ounces) fat-free reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

1/2 cup water

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper (optional)

Directions

Combine chiles, 1/4 cup sour cream, and cilantro in food processor or blender; process until smooth.*

Combine pumpkin, broth, water, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and red pepper, if desired, in medium saucepan; stir in 1/4 cup green chile mixture. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium. Simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Ladle soup into four serving bowls; top each serving with small dollops of remaining green chile mixture and additional sour cream, if desired. Run tip of spoon through dollops to swirl.

*Note. Or omit food processor step by adding green chiles directly to soup. Finely chop cilantro and combine with sour cream. Dollop soup with sour cream-cilantro mixture as directed.

Yield: 4 servings. Serving size: 1 bowl soup (1/4 of total recipe) without additional sour cream.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 72 calories, Carbohydrates: 12 g, Protein: 4 g, Fat: 1 g, Saturated Fat: 1 g, Cholesterol: 5 mg, Sodium: 276 mg, Fiber: 4 g

Exchanges per serving: 1 Bread/Starch.

PUMPKIN FLAN

This recipe begins, “Nothing signals the holiday season more than pumpkin and this flan allows you to showcase it in a new, delicious way.”

Yield: 8 servings.

Serving size: 1 flan.

Source: Cheryl Forberg, R.D.

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1146.shtml

Ingredients

canola oil cooking spray

3 eggs, omega-3-enriched if available

1-1/4 cup pumpkin puree

1/2 cup maple syrup

2 Tbsp canola oil

1-1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

3/4 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground ginger

1/4 tsp ground cloves

1/4 tsp salt

1-1/2 cups low-fat milk, heated until very hot

Boiling water, about 1 quart

ground nutmeg (garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Adjust oven rack to center position. Coat eight 6-ounce custard cups or ramekins with canola oil cooking spray and set them in 13 X 9-inch (33 x 22 cm) baking pan.

In large bowl, beat eggs slightly; add pumpkin puree, maple syrup, canola oil, vanilla, spices and salt. Beat with mixer until blended thoroughly. Mix in hot milk until blended. There will be about 4 cups of liquid. Pour 1/2 cup flan mixture into each prepared ramekin.

Carefully pour boiling water into baking pan around ramekins. Water should come up to level of custard inside ramekins.

Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until set around the edges but still a little loose in center. When center of flan is just set, it will jiggle a little when shaken. Remove from oven and immediately remove ramekins from water bath; cool on wire rack until room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Serve cold and garnish with ground nutmeg. This dessert can be made up to 3 days in advance. Keep refrigerated until serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 190; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 220 mg; Cholesterol: 110 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g

PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE IN GINGERSNAP CRUST

Recipe Yield: 16 servings

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-cheesecake-in-gingersnap-crust

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-cheesecake-in-gingersnap-crust/print/

Ingredients

Crust:

1-1/4 cups gingersnap crumbs

3 tablespoons stick butter or margarine, melted

3 tablespoons Equal Spoonful*

Cheesecake:

3 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened

1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful**

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)

2 eggs

2 egg whites

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 teaspoons vanilla

Topping:

1 cup reduced-fat sour cream

2 tablespoons Equal Spoonful***

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

* May substitute 4-1/2 packets Equal sweetener

** May substitute 30 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

For Crust, combine gingersnap crumbs, 3 tablespoons Equal and butter. Press onto bottom of a 9-inch spring form pan. Bake in preheated 325F oven 8 minutes. Cool on wire rack while preparing cheesecake.

For Cheesecake, beat cream cheese, 1-1/4 cups Equal, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Mix in pumpkin. Mix in eggs and egg whites. Mix in cornstarch and vanilla until blended.

Pour cheesecake mixture over baked crust. Bake in preheated oven 40 to 45 minutes or until center of cake is almost set. Cool on wire rack 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine sour cream, 2 tablespoons Equal and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Gently spread over top of cheesecake. Return to oven and bake 3 to 4 minutes until sour cream mixture is set. Remove cheesecake to wire rack. Gently run metal spatula around rim of pan to loosen cake. Let cheesecake cool completely. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving. To serve, remove side of pan. Cut cake into wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 196; Fat: 13 g; Sodium: 271 mg; Cholesterol: 64 mg; Protein: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 milk, 2-1/2 fat

CINNAMON PUMPKIN TORTE

Contributed by Marilyn Helton of Cinnamon Hearts

24 Servings

Source: Magic Herbs

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/152.shtml

Ingredients

Nonstick cooking spray

1 (18.25 oz) pkg low-fat yellow cake mix

1/4 cup low-fat margarine, melted

1 egg, slightly beaten (or 1/4 cup egg substitute)

1 (30-ounce) can pumpkin pie mix (with spices already added)

2 eggs, beaten (or 1/2 cup egg substitute)

2/3 cup canned evaporated skim milk

2 Tbsp sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Coat a 9 x 13-inch cake pan with cooking spray.

Set aside 1 cup of yellow cake mix for topping.

Mix margarine and one egg and add to remaining cake mix. Press slightly dry mixture into bottom of pan to form a crust.

Combine pumpkin pie mix, two eggs, and evaporated skim milk. Pour over prepared bottom crust.

Mix the reserved cake mix, sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over pumpkin filling.

Bake 40 to 45 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 163; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 256 mg; Cholesterol: 27 mg; Carbohydrates: 31 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread/Starch; 1 Vegetable

PUMPKIN RISOTTO

Yield: 2 pounds; Serves: 10

Serving Size: 3 ounces

Source: The Professional Chef's Techniques of Healthy Cooking

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/96.shtml

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/612.shtml

Ingredients

1 pint Chicken or Vegetable Stock

10-1/2 ounces diced cheese pumpkin or other turban squash

2 ounces onion, diced

2 teaspoons minced garlic

5 ounces arborio rice

2 fluid ounces dry white wine

1-1/4 ounces Romano cheese, grated

Directions

Heat the stock in a medium saucepan.

In a separate saucepan, sweat the pumpkin, onions, and garlic in a small amount of the stock until the onions are translucent. Add the rice and cook briefly.

Stirring constantly over medium to low heat, add the remaining hot stock in 3 additions, making sure the rice absorbs each addition of stock before adding the next. When properly cooked, the risotto should have a creamy texture and be firm to the bite. Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the Romano.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 80; Protein: 3 g; Sodium: 130 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1 Vegetable

OCTOBER BISQUE

Prep Time: 20 Minutes - Cost: $

Servings: 8 - Difficulty Level: 2

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/173.shtml

Ingredients

1 large onion, chopped

4 tbsp butter

4 cups chicken broth

1 (28oz) can whole tomatoes, undrained

1 tbsp sugar

2 (16oz) cans pumpkin, or 4 cups pureed pumpkin

2 tbsp chopped, fresh parsley

2 tbsp chopped, fresh chives

Directions

Sauté onion in butter until tender. Add broth and simmer 15 minutes.

Process tomatoes in a blender or food processor until smooth. Add tomato and remaining ingredients to broth. Heat to serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 154; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 7.5 g; Sodium: 764 mg; Cholesterol: 16 mg; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch/Bread; 1-1/2 Vegetable; 1-1/4 Fat

Double-Post Monday

Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. I've started having Double-Post Monday on one of my other food blogs, Confessions of a Foodie, and figured I'd try it here, too.

Today's post deals with Halloween food. Here are six yummy recipes, including Pumpkin Boo-kies and Spooky Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls. Enjoy!

CRANBERRY APPLE CRISP

Yield: 8 servings

Source: Equal

View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/876.shtml

Ingredients

Filling:

3 cups peeled, cored, sliced apples

2 cups fresh or frozen thawed cranberries

1 cup Equal Spoonful*

Topping:

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup chopped pecans

1/4 cup stick butter or margarine, melted

1/2 cup Equal Spoonful**

* Substitute 24 packets Equal sweetener

** Substitute 12 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

For Filling, combine apples, cranberries and 1 cup Equal in an ungreased 10-inch pie plate.

For Topping, combine flour, pecans, melted butter and 1/2 cup Equal. Mix until well blended. Sprinkle flour mixture over apples and cranberries in pie plate.

Bake in preheated 350F oven 55 to 60 minutes or until fruit is tender. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 145; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 67 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 18 g; Exchanges: 1 fruit, 1-1/2 fat

SPOOKY CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BALLS

This begins, “Add some spooky details like white chocolate eyes or pretzel spider legs to make these bite-sized desserts even more perfect for a halloween celebration!”

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

Ingredients

2 Cups Roasted Peanuts

8 Packets Truvia Sweetener

1/2 Cup (8 squares) Unsweetened Chocolate

5 tsp Honey

1-2 TBSP Granulated White Sugar Substitute

Directions

In a food processor, pulse the peanuts until well ground.

Add Truvia and Honey to the peanuts. Pulse again until dough becomes sticky.

Line a baking sheet or cutting board with parchment or wax paper.

Roll peanut butter dough into 1-inch balls and place on parchment/wax paper. Place in fridge for 15-20 minutes until firm

Place the chocolate squares in plastic microwave safe bowl. Melt in the microwave in short 15 second intervals until smooth.

Add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar substitute to melted chocolate.

Using two spoons, cover each peanut butter ball with melted chocolate. Place back on paper and place in refrigerator for 15-20 more minutes.

Using a sharp knife, remove the excess chocolate edges from the peanut butter balls.

Enjoy!

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 20; Calories: 147.3; Fat: 13.2 g; Carbohydrate: 9.1 g; Dietary Fiber: 3.1 g; Sugars: 2.1 g

PUMPKIN BOO-KIES

This recipe begins, “Scared by high-carb Halloween treats? Feast on these yummy pumpkin cookies instead!”

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

Ingredients

1 cooking spray

2 cups sugar

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

2 eggs, beaten

4 cups flour, all purpose, white, bleached, enriched, baked value sifted

2 cups whole wheat flour

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

3 tbsp pumpkin pie spice

2 cups pumpkin, canned, unsalted (or thick cooked)

1 cup chopped pecans (or any other nuts)

Directions

Using an electric mixer, blend sugar and apple sauce, add eggs.

In a separate bowl, stir together flours, salt, soda, and spice.

Mix dry ingredients into creamed mixture alternately with the pumpkin. Add nuts.

Form into two logs, wrap in waxed paper, and chill thoroughly in refrigerator until dough is stiff. (This will be several hours or overnight).

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Spray baking sheets with cooking spray.

Slice dough thin, about 1/8-inch, and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove promptly to cooling rack. Cookies will be thin, light, and crisp. Browning is not easily seen.

Nutritional Facts: Servings: 1; Calories 43.3; Total Carbs 8.2 g; Dietary Fiber 0.7 g; Sugars 3 g; Total Fat 1 g; Saturated Fat 0.1 g; Unsaturated Fat 0.9 g; Potassium 30.4 mg; Protein 1 g; Sodium 18.9 mg

Dietary Exchanges: 1/4 Starch

GRANNY SMITH'S APPLE CRISP

This recipe begins, “A perfect warm dessert to serve a cool autumn day.”

Yield: 8 servings

Serving size: 3/4 cup crisp

Source: Splenda

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1123.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon orange zest

1/4 cup orange juice

5 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/4-inch slices

1 cup uncooked old-fashioned oats

2 tablespoons Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons butter, softened

1/2 cup crisp rice cereal

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an 8-inch square baking dish with vegetable cooking spray. Set aside.

Make Filling: Whisk together Splenda Granulated Sweetener, cinnamon, orange zest and orange juice in a large bowl; add apples and toss to coat. Transfer mixture to prepared pan; set aside.

Make Topping: Stir together oats, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and cinnamon in a medium bowl; cut butter in with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture is crumbly. Stir in cereal and walnuts. Spoon topping over apples.

Bake 45 minutes or until topping is lightly browned. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Calories from Fat: 80; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 45 mg; Cholesterol: 10 mg; Saturated Fat: 2.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 10 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g

CHICKEN STUFFED WITH APPLES, ALMONDS AND BLUE CHEESE

This recipe begins, “Apples, almonds and blue cheese, mixed with vibrant, fresh dill and stuffed into tender chicken breasts. You get a bounty of flavors in every bite.”

Yield: 4 servings

Source: Almond Board of California

Author: Robin Miller

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1134.shtml

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 5 ounces each)

4 ounces crumbled blue cheese (any variety, including Gorgonzola)

1/2 cup slivered almonds

1 apple (preferably Mackintosh, Gala, or Jufi), peeled, cored and diced

3 teaspoons chopped fresh dill

salt and freshly ground pepper

4 teaspoons olive oil

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon (4 teaspoons) dried minced onion (from the spice aisle)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400F.

Coat a shallow roasting pan with cooking spray.

Using a sharp paring knife, slice a pocket into each chicken breast, as if halving a bagel, without completely cutting through the other side.

Arrange chicken in prepared pan and set aside.

In medium bowl, combine blue cheese, almonds, apple, and dill. Add a pinch each of salt and black pepper. Mix together with a fork until mixture is well blended and comes together.

Divide mixture into four equal portions and spoon each portion into the pocket of the chicken. Brush olive oil all over the top of chicken and season the top with salt, black pepper and dried onion (1 teaspoon dried onion for each breast).

Bake 25 to 30 minutes, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 490; Protein: 53 g; Fat: 25 g; Sodium: 867 mg; Cholesterol: 141 mg; Saturated Fat: 7.9 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

CRANBERRY-APPLE SPINACH SALAD

Yield: 4 servings

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/442.shtml

Ingredients

6 cups moderately packed fresh spinach leaves

1/4 cup light balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing or Citrus Vinaigrette

1 cup matchstick-sized pieces apple

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or toasted pecans

1/4 cup crumbled reduced-fat feta or blue cheese

Directions

Place the spinach leaves and salad dressing in a large bowl and toss to mix well. Divide the mixture between 4 salad plates.

Top the spinach on each plate with a quarter of the apples, cranberries, nuts, and cheese. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 141; Protein: 4.7 g; Sodium: 272 mg; Cholesterol: 2 mg; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Fat 8.3 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fruit, 1-1/2 Fat

Meatless Monday

If you use an insulin pen for your daily insulin, there's a helpful hint from Diabetes Self-Management. According to the hint, you should "never store an insulin pen with a needle (new or used) attached." It states that air can leak in or insulin may leak out.

Diabetes Self-Management also has an article titled "Insulin Delivery Devices" that gives quite a bit of useful information about the different was to deliver insulin. (You can click the above link, or click here to read the article.)

And now, on to the food. It's Meatless Monday, time to try a day without meat. Of course, if you're a vegetarian, going meatless is pretty much second-nature. Either way, here are six diabetic and vegetarian recipes to help you through the day, including Quesadillas and Lemon Basil Pesto with Fresh Vegetables. Enjoy!

SPINACH SALAD WITH CREAMY BEET DRESSING

Recipe Yield: Makes 2 servings.

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spinach-salad-with-creamy-beet-dressing

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spinach-salad-with-creamy-beet-dressing/print/

Ingredients

1/2 cup finely chopped, drained canned beets, or vacuum-packed cooked beets (see note)

1 1/2 tsp. Dijon-style mustard

1 1/2 tsp. apple cider vinegar

4 Tbsp. fat-free, reduced-sodium vegetable broth, divided

1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

1 1/2 ounces French green beans

3 cups baby spinach

2 medium endives, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices, about 1 cup

2 tablespoons sweet onion, cut in very thin crescents

1 small roasted or cooked beet

Directions

For dressing, place beets, mustard, vinegar and 2 tablespoons of broth in blender and whirl until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides of blender as needed.

With the motor running, pour in remaining broth, then oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.

Makes 3/4 cup thick dressing. Dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated, tightly covered, for 24 hours. If necessary, before using, thin chilled dressing with additional broth and adjust the seasoning.

Cook green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and plunge immediately into bowl of cold water. When beans are cool, drain well and set aside.

In mixing bowl, combine spinach and endive, then divide between 2 salad plates or wide, shallow bowls. Sprinkle onions over greens, then add green beans.

Cut beet crosswise into thin slices. Cut each slice into matchsticks and sprinkle over salad. Drizzle on 3 tablespoons of the dressing. Serve immediately.

Note: When buying beets in a can or jar, be sure they are not pickled.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 86; Fat: 4 g; Saturated Fat: under 1 g; Sodium: 119 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

QUESADILLAS

Recipe Yield: 8 servings (2 wedges)

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/quesadillas

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/quesadillas/print/

Source: Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking

Ingredients

1 cup shredded Mexican Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or brick cheese

1 green onion, minced

1-3 tablespoons canned chopped green chilies (to taste)

4 (8-inch) flour tortillas

Chunky salsa, for topping or dip

Directions

In a medium bowl, toss together the cheese, green onion, and chilies; set aside.

Spray a medium skillet with nonstick cooking spray and place over medium heat.

When hot, add 1 tortilla and sprinkle it with one-fourth of the cheese mixture.

When the cheese begins to melt, about 1 minute, fold the tortilla in half.

Continue cooking until lightly browned and crisp on both sides, about 1 minute.

Transfer to a cutting board.

Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Cut into 4 wedges with a knife or pizza cutter and serve immediately with the salsa.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 134; Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 211 mg; Cholesterol: 12 mg; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Sugars: 1 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat

MUSHROOM DILL SAUTE

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/mushroom-dill-saute

Source: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Recipe Yield: Serves: 4 (1 Serving = 1/2 cup)

Ingredients

1 tablespoon margarine

2 cups sliced white mushrooms (8 ounces)

1 red or yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut in thin strips

1 clove garlic, minced

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons snipped fresh dill, or 1 teaspoon dried dill weed

1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Directions

Melt the margarine in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Saute the mushrooms, pepper strips, and garlic until the mushrooms are tender and the liquid has evaporated, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Stir in the mustard, dill, and ground pepper; toss to coat. Heat through.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 48: Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 66 mg; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

CINNAMON SUGARED PUMPKIN-PECAN MUFFINS

Yield: 12 servings. Serving size: 1 muffin.

This is from Diabetes Self-Management.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

8 tablespoons sugar, divided

2 1/2 to 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided

1 cup 100% bran cereal

1 cup fat-free (skim) milk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup solid-pack pumpkin

1 egg, beaten

1 tablespoon vanilla

1 package (2 ounces) pecan chips (1/2 cup)

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray 12 standard (2 1/2-inch) nonstick muffin cups with nonstick cooking spray. Combine 2 tablespoons sugar and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cinnamon in small bowl for topping; set aside.

Combine cereal and milk in large bowl; set aside 5 minutes to soften. Meanwhile, combine flour, remaining 6 tablespoons sugar, remaining cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in large bowl; mix well.

Whisk pumpkin, egg, and vanilla into cereal mixture. Gently fold in flour mixture just until blended. Do not overmix. Spoon equal amounts of batter into prepared muffin cups; sprinkle evenly with pecan chips. Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar topping.

Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted into centers comes out clean. Cool on wire rack 3 minutes. Remove from pan to wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 141 calories, Carbohydrates: 24 g, Protein: 4 g, Fat: 4 g, Saturated Fat: 1 g, Cholesterol: 18 mg, Sodium: 335 mg, Fiber: 3 g

Exchanges per serving: 1 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1 Fat.

SUGAR SNAP PEAS AND CARROTS

Recipe Yield: Makes 4 servings.

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/sugar-snap-peas-and-carrots

Ingredients

1 tsp. canola oil

1 small garlic clove, minced

1 tsp. grated or minced ginger

8 oz. sugar snap peas

3 baby carrots, cut lengthwise in 8 strips

3 Tbsp. vegetable broth, or water

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 large basil leaves, cut crosswise in thin strips

Directions

Heat oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Saute garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add peas and carrots to the pan, stirring to coat them with oil. Add broth or water. Cook, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender-crisp, about 4 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Mix in basil and serve.

Notes:

Additional Info: 2 g. dietary fiber

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 47; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 109 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Vegetable

LEMON BASIL PESTO WITH FRESH VEGETABLES

Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings.

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/lemon-basil-pesto-with-fresh-vegetables

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/lemon-basil-pesto-with-fresh-vegetables/print/

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups packed basil leaves

1/2 cup packed baby spinach leaves

1/2 cup walnuts

1/4 cup (1 ounce) grated Asiago cheese

2 Tbsp. soft silken tofu

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 tsp. grated lemon zest

1 large red bell pepper, cut into 3/4" strips

1 pint small cherry tomatoes

Directions

In food processor, pulse basil and spinach until finely chopped.

Add nuts and cheese. Whirl until nuts are finely chopped.

Add tofu, salt and pepper. With motor running, drizzle in oil.

Add lemon zest and whirl to blend.

Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Makes 1 cup pesto.

To serve, scoop pesto into serving bowl.

Set bowl in center of a plate and arrange pepper strips and tomatoes around it.

Provide toothpicks so tomatoes can be neatly dipped.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 140; Fat: 12 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Fiber: 2 g; Sodium: 180 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g

Saturday Recipes

Here are today's six recipes to help you through the day, including Creamy Baked Custard w/Maple Syrup and Tangy Apple Slaw. Enjoy!

CARIBBEAN CHICKEN

Servings: 6

Source: Gourmet Inspirations Healthy Cooking

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/67.shtml

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=67

Ingredients

2 teaspoons oil

6 single chicken breasts (24 oz. raw weight) skinned, boned, washed, sliced in 1/2" strips

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup onion, chopped

1/4 cup peach or apricot chutney (fruit sweetened)

1/2 teaspoon thyme

1/2 teaspoon each curry powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves

1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

1-1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth

3 tablespoons dry white wine

2 teaspoons coconut flavoring

Directions

In a large skillet, heat oil to medium high, and saute chicken pieces until brown.

Remove chicken, set aside.

Saute garlic and onion in skillet until soft, and golden.

Stir in chutney and spices and cook one minute.

Add broth and wine, and heat through, stirring constantly.

Return chicken to sauce, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes.

Stir in coconut flavoring. Serve over hot rice.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Protein: 19 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 44 mg; Carbohydrates: 6 g; Exchanges: 3 low-fat meat; 1/3 fruit

CHICKEN STUFFED WITH APPLES, ALMONDS AND BLUE CHEESE

This recipe begins, “Apples, almonds and blue cheese, mixed with vibrant, fresh dill and stuffed into tender chicken breasts. You get a bounty of flavors in every bite.”

Yield: 4 servings

Source: Almond Board of California

Author: Robin Miller

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1134.shtml

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 5 ounces each)

4 ounces crumbled blue cheese (any variety, including Gorgonzola)

1/2 cup slivered almonds

1 apple (preferably Mackintosh, Gala, or Jufi), peeled, cored and diced

3 teaspoons chopped fresh dill

salt and freshly ground pepper

4 teaspoons olive oil

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon (4 teaspoons) dried minced onion (from the spice aisle)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400F.

Coat a shallow roasting pan with cooking spray.

Using a sharp paring knife, slice a pocket into each chicken breast, as if halving a bagel, without completely cutting through the other side.

Arrange chicken in prepared pan and set aside.

In medium bowl, combine blue cheese, almonds, apple, and dill. Add a pinch each of salt and black pepper. Mix together with a fork until mixture is well blended and comes together.

Divide mixture into four equal portions and spoon each portion into the pocket of the chicken. Brush olive oil all over the top of chicken and season the top with salt, black pepper and dried onion (1 teaspoon dried onion for each breast).

Bake 25 to 30 minutes, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 490; Protein: 53 g; Fat: 25 g; Sodium: 867 mg; Cholesterol: 141 mg; Saturated Fat: 7.9 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

TURKEY AND VEGGIE MEATBALLS WITH FENNEL This is from Diabetes Self-Management. To view this online, click here.

Yield: 6 servings. Serving size: 6 meatballs.

Serving suggestion: Top with a lower-sodium meatless marinara sauce.

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground turkey

1/2 cup finely chopped green onions

1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper

1/3 cup old-fashioned oats

1/4 cup shredded carrot

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 egg whites

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

Directions

Combine all ingredients except oil in large bowl; mix well. Shape into 36 (1-inch) balls.

Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs; cook 11 minutes or until no longer pink in center, turning frequently. Use fork and spoon for easy turning. Serve immediately or cool and freeze.*

*Note: To freeze, cool completely and place in gallon-size resealable food storage bag. Release any excess air from bag and seal. Freeze bag flat for easier storage and faster thawing. This will also allow you to remove as many meatballs as needed without them sticking together. To reheat, place meatballs in a 12×8-inch microwavable dish and cook on HIGH 20 to 30 seconds or until hot.

LEMON BASIL PESTO WITH FRESH VEGETABLES

Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings.

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/lemon-basil-pesto-with-fresh-vegetables

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/lemon-basil-pesto-with-fresh-vegetables/print/

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups packed basil leaves

1/2 cup packed baby spinach leaves

1/2 cup walnuts

1/4 cup (1 ounce) grated Asiago cheese

2 Tbsp. soft silken tofu

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 tsp. grated lemon zest

1 large red bell pepper, cut into 3/4" strips

1 pint small cherry tomatoes

Directions

In food processor, pulse basil and spinach until finely chopped.

Add nuts and cheese. Whirl until nuts are finely chopped.

Add tofu, salt and pepper. With motor running, drizzle in oil.

Add lemon zest and whirl to blend.

Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Makes 1 cup pesto.

To serve, scoop pesto into serving bowl.

Set bowl in center of a plate and arrange pepper strips and tomatoes around it.

Provide toothpicks so tomatoes can be neatly dipped.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 140; Fat: 12 g; Saturated Fat: 2 g; Fiber: 2 g; Sodium: 180 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g

CREAMY BAKED CUSTARD WITH MAPLE SYRUP

This is from Diabetes Self-Management and can be found online at https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/recipes/desserts-sweets/creamy-baked-custard-with-maple-syrup/

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups fat-free half-and-half

1/2 cup cholesterol-free egg substitute

1/4 cup sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla

Dash ground nutmeg

3 cups boiling water

2 tablespoons maple syrup

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°F. Lightly spray 6 custard cups or ramekins with nonstick cooking spray.

Combine half-and-half, egg substitute, sugar, vanilla, and nutmeg in large bowl. Pour into prepared custard cups.

Pour boiling water into 13×9-inch baking dish. Place custard cups in dish. Bake 1 hour and 15 minutes. (Centers will not be completely set.) Remove cups from pan. Cool completely on wire rack. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate overnight.

Drizzle with maple syrup before serving.

Yield: 6 servings. Serving size: 6 ounces

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 131 calories, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 5 g, Fat: 1 g, Saturated Fat: 0 g, Cholesterol: 17 mg, Sodium: 139 mg, Fiber: 0 g

Exchanges per serving: 1 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Meat.

TANGY APPLE SLAW

This recipe begins, “A take-off on the traditional creamy version of coleslaw - chopped apples add crunch and a hint of sweetness.”

Recipe Yield: Serves: 6

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/tangy-apple-slaw

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/tangy-apple-slaw/print/

Ingredients

4 cups shredded green cabbage

1 cup shredded carrots

1 cup chopped unpeeled apple (1 medium)

1/2 cup thinly sliced red or green bell pepper strips

2/3 cup light mayonnaise or salad dressing

1/3 cup reduced fat sour cream

3 tablespoons Equal ® Spoonful or Granulated*

1-1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/8 teaspoon pepper

* May substitute 4-1/2 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Combine cabbage, carrots, apple and pepper strips in medium size bowl.

Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Equal, mustard, lemon juice and pepper.

Spoon Equal mixture over cabbage mixture; toss to combine.

Refrigerate, covered, 1 to 2 hours to allow flavors to blend.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 152; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 331 mg; Cholesterol: 15 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 vegetable, 2 fat

Friday Recipes

Here's a question I'm sure anyone who uses insulin has wondered: What should I do with my expired insulin?

According to Diabetes Self-Management, you should discard it, as its effectiveness "may be severely compromised."

Diabetes Self-Management also has an article about insulin that you might be interested in reading ("Insulin: What you Need to Know"), as it has quite a lot of useful information. (You can click the previous link, or click here to get to the article.)

And now, here are six yummy recipes to help you through the day, including Turkey Vegetable Chili Mac and Chimichurri Steak Wraps. Enjoy!

HOT AND SOUR SOUP

Recipe Yield: 10 (1 cup) servings

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/hot-and-sour-soup

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/hot-and-sour-soup/print/

Source: Eater's Choice Low-Fat Cookbook

Ingredients

10 large dried black mushrooms

1/2 cup tree ear fungi

1/3 tiger lily stems (golden needles)

2 tablespoons cornstarch

3 tablespoons water

3/4 diced uncooked chicken breast

1 teaspoon olive oil

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 can (8 oz.) bamboo shoots, sliced

6 cups chicken stock, or 3 cans (10-3/4 oz each) chicken broth, defatted, + 2 cans water

3 tablespoons white vinegar

1 tablespoon double black soy sauce

2 cakes tofu (fresh bean curd), cubed

2 teaspoons chili oil

2 egg whites, beaten

4 green onions, sliced

Directions

Place mushrooms, tree ears, and tiger lily stems in a small bowl and cover with boiling water.

In about 15 minutes or when they are soft, drain off the water and chop off stems or any hard parts.

Slice mushrooms and tree ears and pull tiger lily stems into shreds. Set aside.

Combine cornstarch and water into a smooth paste. Set aside.

In a heated wok or skillet, saute chicken in oil until chicken is cooked through.

Stir in regular soy sauce.

Stir in mushrooms, tree ears, tiger lily stems, and bamboo shoots.

Add chicken stock, vinegar, and double black soy sauce.

Stir cornstarch mixture into soup. Let thicken.

Add tofu and bring soup to a boil.

Stir in the chili oil and white pepper.

Turn off the heat for 1 minute and then slowly pour the egg whites into the soup, stirring constantly.

Garnish each bowl of soup with chopped green onions.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 97; Fat: 2 g; Protein: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch; 1 Meat

GINGERED ORANGE CARROTS

Recipe Yield: Makes about 2 cups (4 servings)

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/gingered-orange-carrots

Source: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Ingredients

6 medium carrots (about 3/4 pound), peeled and sliced

1/2 cup homemade chicken broth, or canned reduced-sodium chicken broth

1/4 cup orange juice

2 teaspoons margarine

1 teaspoon grated fresh gingerroot, or 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Directions

Combine the carrots and broth in a medium saucepan. Cover and simmer over low heat until almost tender, about 10 minutes.

Add the orange juice, margarine, and ginger; simmer, uncovered, until almost all the liquid is absorbed. Serve hot.

Notes:

4g sugars and 2g dietary fiber.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 52; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 72 mg; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

TURKEY VEGETABLE CHILI MAC

From Diabetes Self-Management.

To view online, click here.

Yield: 6 servings.

Ingredients

3/4 pound ground turkey

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

1 can (about 14 ounces) Mexican-style diced tomatoes

1 can (about 14 ounces) diced tomatoes

1 cup frozen corn

1/2 cup chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Mexican seasoning

1/2 cup uncooked elbow macaroni

1/3 cup sour cream

Directions

Spray large skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium-high heat. Add turkey; cook and stir 5 minutes or until no longer pink. Transfer to slow cooker. Add beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, garlic and Mexican seasoning. Cover; cook on LOW 4 to 5 hours.

Stir in macaroni. Cover; cook 10 minutes. Stir. Cover; cook 20 to 30 minutes or until macaroni is tender. Serve with sour cream.

Tip: Feel free to substitute 2 ounces of any other pasta. Short pasta shapes like cavatappi, penne, or rigatoni (which are sometimes called “cut pastas” because they are cut into pieces during the manufacturing process) can be added straight out of the packages. Longer shapes such as linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti should be broken in halves or thirds before being stirred in so that all the pasta can be fully immersed in the sauce.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 210, Carbohydrates: 24 g, Protein: 20 g, Fat: 4 g, Saturated Fat: 2 g, Cholesterol: 30 mg, Sodium: 340 mg, Fiber: 5 g

Exchanges per serving: 1 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Fat, 1 1/2 Vegetable.

QUESADILLAS

Recipe Yield: 8 servings (2 wedges)

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/quesadillas

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/quesadillas/print/

Source: Forbidden Foods Diabetic Cooking

Ingredients

1 cup shredded Mexican Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or brick cheese

1 green onion, minced

1-3 tablespoons canned chopped green chilies (to taste)

4 (8-inch) flour tortillas

Chunky salsa, for topping or dip

Directions

In a medium bowl, toss together the cheese, green onion, and chilies; set aside.

Spray a medium skillet with nonstick cooking spray and place over medium heat.

When hot, add 1 tortilla and sprinkle it with one-fourth of the cheese mixture.

When the cheese begins to melt, about 1 minute, fold the tortilla in half.

Continue cooking until lightly browned and crisp on both sides, about 1 minute.

Transfer to a cutting board.

Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Cut into 4 wedges with a knife or pizza cutter and serve immediately with the salsa.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 134; Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 211 mg; Cholesterol: 12 mg; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Sugars: 1 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat

CHIMICHURRI STEAK WRAPS

Yield: Makes 4 servings

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chimichurri-steak-wraps

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chimichurri-steak-wraps/print/

Ingredients

12 ounces grilled top sirloin steak, cut into slices

3 cups fresh baby spinach

1/2 large red bell pepper, cut into thin strips

4 medium whole wheat tortillas (8 to 10-inch diameter)

Chimichurri Sauce

1 cup fresh parsley leaves

2 cloves garlic

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Place parsley and garlic in food processor or blender container.

Cover; process until finely chopped.

Add oil, vinegar and salt; process just until blended.

Spread each tortilla evenly with Chimichurri Sauce, leaving 1/4-inch border around edge.

Top with equal amounts spinach, bell pepper slices and beef slices on top two-thirds of tortilla.

Fold bottom of tortilla up over filling. Fold right and left sides to center overlapping edges; secure with wooden picks; if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 340; Fat: 16 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 3.7 g; Sodium: 410 mg; Cholesterol: 49 mg; Protein: 30 g; Carbohydrates: 25 g

HERB-CRUMBED BROCCOLI

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/herb-crumbed-broccoli

Source: 1,001 Recipes For People with Diabetes

Book Title: 1,001 Recipes For People with Diabetes

Recipe Yield: 6 Servings

Ingredients

Butter-flavored vegetable cooking spray

2-4 tablespoons chopped pecans

1/4 cup dry unseasoned breadcrumbs

1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves

1/4 teaspoon dried chervil leaves

2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

1-1/2 lb broccoli, cut into florets and stalks sliced, cooked

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Spray small skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium heat until hot. Add pecans and spray with cooking spray; cook over medium heat until toasted, 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Add breadcrumbs, marjoram, and chervil to skillet; cook until crumbs are toasted, 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in parsley.

Season broccoli with salt and pepper to taste; arrange in serving bowl. Spoon crumb mixture over broccoli.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 61; Fat: 2.1 g; Sodium: 64 mg; Protein: 3.7 g; Carbohydrates: 8.7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

Thursday Recipes

Here are today's recipes to help you through the day, including Gingered Orange Carrots and Cinnamon Sugared Pumpkin-Pecan Muffins. Enjoy!

ONE-POT CHICKEN AND VEGETABLES

Yield: 4 servings

Serving Size: 1/2 cup vegetables, 1/2 cup rice, 4 ounces chicken

Source: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/453.shtml

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup sliced zucchini

1 cup sliced or shredded carrot

1/2 cup sliced green onions or red onion

1/2 cup sliced celery

1 (14-1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes

1 pound cooked, diced chicken breasts

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

2 cups cooked brown rice, hot

Directions

In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the zucchini, carrots, green or red onion, and celery and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the canned diced tomatoes and lower the heat. Simmer for 5 minutes. Add the chicken and seasonings and simmer for 3 minutes.

Serve the chicken and vegetables over cooked rice.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 406; Protein: 38 g; Fat: 13 g; Sodium: 409 mg; Cholesterol: 96 mg; Carbohydrates: 32 g; Exchanges: 2 Starch, 1 Vegetable, 4 Lean Meat

SLOW COOKER VEGETABLE AND BEAN SOUP

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/vegetable-and-bean-soup

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/vegetable-and-bean-soup/print/

Source: The Everyday Low-Carb Slow Cooker Cookbook

Ingredients

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes

2 (14.5) cans chicken broth

1 cube vegetable bouillon

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 (15.5 ounce) can kidney beans, drained

1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

2 carrots, finely chopped

2 celery stalks, finely chopped

2 summer squashes (zucchini or yellow squash, about 1 pound total), quartered lengthwise and chopped

1 (7 ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (about 4 shakes) (optional)

Easy substitution: To make this soup completely vegetarian, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth, and additional olive oil for the butter.

Directions

Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker crock and mix well.

Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours.

Stir well before serving.

If desired, stir in Tabasco sauce before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 210; Fat: 9 g; Sodium: 1020 mg; Cholesterol: 14 mg; Protein: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Lean Meat, 2 Fat, 2 Vegetable

GINGERED ORANGE CARROTS

Recipe Yield: Makes about 2 cups (4 servings)

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/gingered-orange-carrots

Source: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Ingredients

6 medium carrots (about 3/4 pound), peeled and sliced

1/2 cup homemade chicken broth, or canned reduced-sodium chicken broth

1/4 cup orange juice

2 teaspoons margarine

1 teaspoon grated fresh gingerroot, or 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Directions

Combine the carrots and broth in a medium saucepan. Cover and simmer over low heat until almost tender, about 10 minutes.

Add the orange juice, margarine, and ginger; simmer, uncovered, until almost all the liquid is absorbed. Serve hot.

Notes:

4g sugars and 2g dietary fiber.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 52; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 72 mg; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

MIDDLE EASTERN-STYLE CHICKEN

Yield: 10 servings

Source: The Diabetes Snack Munch Nibble Nosh Book

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/middle-eastern-style-chicken

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/middle-eastern-style-chicken/print/

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, trimmed of all fat and cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups frozen mixed pepper and onion stir-fry

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 cup fat-free, low-sodium or regular chicken broth

(14-1/2 ounce) can low-sodium or regular diced tomato

1/2 cup dark raisins

1 large bay leaf

1-1/2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves

1 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon allspice

1/8 teaspoon cloves

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Salt to taste (optional)

Directions

In a nonstick skillet coated with nonstick spray coating, cook the chicken pieces over medium heat, turning frequently, until they begin to brown.

Add the onion and pepper mixture, garlic, oil and 1 tablespoon of the broth to the skillet. Stir up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Raise the heat and bring to a boil.

Lower the heat again and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, 2 or 3 minutes, or until the onion is slightly softened. Add the remaining broth, tomato, raisins, bay leaf, thyme, cumin, allspice, cloves, and black pepper.

Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, uncovered, about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has cooked down slightly. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Add salt to taste (if desired).

Serve at once, or transfer to a casserole, cover, and refrigerate. The chicken will keep for 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 99; Fat: 2 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 106 mg; Cholesterol: 27 mg; Protein: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Sugars: 7 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Carbohydrate, 1 Lean Meat

SPINACH SALAD WITH CREAMY BEET DRESSING

Recipe Yield: Makes 2 servings.

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spinach-salad-with-creamy-beet-dressing

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spinach-salad-with-creamy-beet-dressing/print/

Ingredients

1/2 cup finely chopped, drained canned beets, or vacuum-packed cooked beets (see note)

1 1/2 tsp. Dijon-style mustard

1 1/2 tsp. apple cider vinegar

4 Tbsp. fat-free, reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, divided

1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

1 1/2 ounces French green beans

3 cups baby spinach

2 medium endives, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices, about 1 cup

2 tablespoons sweet onion, cut in very thin crescents

1 small roasted or cooked beet

Directions

For dressing, place beets, mustard, vinegar and 2 tablespoons of broth in blender and whirl until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides of blender as needed.

With the motor running, pour in remaining broth, then oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.

Makes 3/4 cup thick dressing. Dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated, tightly covered, for 24 hours. If necessary, before using, thin chilled dressing with additional broth and adjust the seasoning.

Cook green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and plunge immediately into bowl of cold water. When beans are cool, drain well and set aside.

In mixing bowl, combine spinach and endive, then divide between 2 salad plates or wide, shallow bowls. Sprinkle onions over greens, then add green beans.

Cut beet crosswise into thin slices. Cut each slice into matchsticks and sprinkle over salad. Drizzle on 3 tablespoons of the dressing. Serve immediately.

Note: When buying beets in a can or jar, be sure they are not pickled.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 86; Fat: 4 g; Saturated Fat: under 1 g; Sodium: 119 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

CINNAMON SUGARED PUMPKIN-PECAN MUFFINS

Yield: 12 servings. Serving size: 1 muffin.

This is from Diabetes Self-Management.

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

8 tablespoons sugar, divided

2 1/2 to 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided

1 cup 100% bran cereal

1 cup fat-free (skim) milk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup solid-pack pumpkin

1 egg, beaten

1 tablespoon vanilla

1 package (2 ounces) pecan chips (1/2 cup)

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray 12 standard (2 1/2-inch) nonstick muffin cups with nonstick cooking spray. Combine 2 tablespoons sugar and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cinnamon in small bowl for topping; set aside.

Combine cereal and milk in large bowl; set aside 5 minutes to soften. Meanwhile, combine flour, remaining 6 tablespoons sugar, remaining cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in large bowl; mix well.

Whisk pumpkin, egg, and vanilla into cereal mixture. Gently fold in flour mixture just until blended. Do not overmix. Spoon equal amounts of batter into prepared muffin cups; sprinkle evenly with pecan chips. Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar topping.

Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted into centers comes out clean. Cool on wire rack 3 minutes. Remove from pan to wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 141 calories, Carbohydrates: 24 g, Protein: 4 g, Fat: 4 g, Saturated Fat: 1 g, Cholesterol: 18 mg, Sodium: 335 mg, Fiber: 3 g

Exchanges per serving: 1 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1 Fat.

Wednesday Recipes

Here are today's six yummy recipes to help you through the day, including Turkey Vegetable Chili Mac and Middle Eastern-Style Chicken. Enjoy!

DOUBLE CHOCOLATE BROWNIES

This recipe begins, “Applesauce replaces part of the fat, Equal all of the sugar, plus you get double the chocolate flavor with both cocoa and chocolate chips – so who can resist these delicious brownies?”

Recipe Yield: 16 brownies

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/double-chocolate-brownies

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/double-chocolate-brownies/print/

Ingredients

6 tablespoons stick butter, softened

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup Equal Spoonful*

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips

6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional: Chopped Walnuts

* May substitute 24 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Beat butter, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla until blended.

Stir in combined flour, Equal, chocolate chips, cocoa, baking powder, nuts (optional) and salt until blended.

Spread batter in sprayed 8-inch square baking pan.

Bake in a preheated 350F oven 18 to 20 minutes or until top springs back when gently touched.

Cool completely on wire rack. Cut into squares.

Store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 77 mg; Cholesterol: 38 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat

BROILED TOMATOES PARMESAN

Recipe Yield: 4 Servings (1/2 tomato)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/broiled-tomatoes-parmesan

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/broiled-tomatoes-parmesan/print/

Ingredients

2 medium ripe tomatoes (12 to 14 ounces total)

1 clove garlic, minced

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 tablespoon minced fresh basil, or 1 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/2 cup fresh soft bread crumbs, or 1 slice bread, crumbled

1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese (preferably imported)

Directions

Cut tomatoes in half crosswise. Gently squeeze out and discard the seeds. Place the tomatoes cut side up on a broiler pan prepared with non-stick pan spray.

Combine the garlic, oil, basil, and pepper in a small bowl. Brush evenly over the cut surfaces of the tomatoes. Broil 6 inches from the heat source until hot, about 5 minutes.

While the tomatoes are broiling, combine the crumbs and cheese in a small bowl; sprinkle evenly over the tops of the hot tomatoes. Return to the broiler until the crumbs are browned, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 60; Fat: 3 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 62 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Sugars: 3 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

MIDDLE EASTERN-STYLE CHICKEN

Yield: 10 servings

Source: The Diabetes Snack Munch Nibble Nosh Book

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/middle-eastern-style-chicken

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/middle-eastern-style-chicken/print/

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, trimmed of all fat and cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups frozen mixed pepper and onion stir-fry

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 cup fat-free, low-sodium or regular chicken broth

(14-1/2 ounce) can low-sodium or regular diced tomato

1/2 cup dark raisins

1 large bay leaf

1-1/2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves

1 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon allspice

1/8 teaspoon cloves

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Salt to taste (optional)

Directions

In a nonstick skillet coated with nonstick spray coating, cook the chicken pieces over medium heat, turning frequently, until they begin to brown.

Add the onion and pepper mixture, garlic, oil and 1 tablespoon of the broth to the skillet. Stir up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Raise the heat and bring to a boil.

Lower the heat again and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, 2 or 3 minutes, or until the onion is slightly softened. Add the remaining broth, tomato, raisins, bay leaf, thyme, cumin, allspice, cloves, and black pepper.

Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, uncovered, about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has cooked down slightly. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Add salt to taste (if desired).

Serve at once, or transfer to a casserole, cover, and refrigerate. The chicken will keep for 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 99; Fat: 2 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 106 mg; Cholesterol: 27 mg; Protein: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Sugars: 7 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Carbohydrate, 1 Lean Meat

TURKEY VEGETABLE CHILI MAC

From Diabetes Self-Management.

To view online, click here.

Yield: 6 servings.

Ingredients

3/4 pound ground turkey

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

1 can (about 14 ounces) Mexican-style diced tomatoes

1 can (about 14 ounces) diced tomatoes

1 cup frozen corn

1/2 cup chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Mexican seasoning

1/2 cup uncooked elbow macaroni

1/3 cup sour cream

Directions

Spray large skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium-high heat. Add turkey; cook and stir 5 minutes or until no longer pink. Transfer to slow cooker. Add beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, garlic and Mexican seasoning. Cover; cook on LOW 4 to 5 hours.

Stir in macaroni. Cover; cook 10 minutes. Stir. Cover; cook 20 to 30 minutes or until macaroni is tender. Serve with sour cream.

Tip: Feel free to substitute 2 ounces of any other pasta. Short pasta shapes like cavatappi, penne, or rigatoni (which are sometimes called “cut pastas” because they are cut into pieces during the manufacturing process) can be added straight out of the packages. Longer shapes such as linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti should be broken in halves or thirds before being stirred in so that all the pasta can be fully immersed in the sauce.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 210, Carbohydrates: 24 g, Protein: 20 g, Fat: 4 g, Saturated Fat: 2 g, Cholesterol: 30 mg, Sodium: 340 mg, Fiber: 5 g

Exchanges per serving: 1 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Fat, 1 1/2 Vegetable.

SPINACH SALAD WITH CREAMY BEET DRESSING

Recipe Yield: Makes 2 servings.

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spinach-salad-with-creamy-beet-dressing

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spinach-salad-with-creamy-beet-dressing/print/

Ingredients

1/2 cup finely chopped, drained canned beets, or vacuum-packed cooked beets (see note)

1 1/2 tsp. Dijon-style mustard

1 1/2 tsp. apple cider vinegar

4 Tbsp. fat-free, reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, divided

1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

1 1/2 ounces French green beans

3 cups baby spinach

2 medium endives, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices, about 1 cup

2 tablespoons sweet onion, cut in very thin crescents

1 small roasted or cooked beet

Directions

For dressing, place beets, mustard, vinegar and 2 tablespoons of broth in blender and whirl until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides of blender as needed.

With the motor running, pour in remaining broth, then oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.

Makes 3/4 cup thick dressing. Dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated, tightly covered, for 24 hours. If necessary, before using, thin chilled dressing with additional broth and adjust the seasoning.

Cook green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and plunge immediately into bowl of cold water. When beans are cool, drain well and set aside.

In mixing bowl, combine spinach and endive, then divide between 2 salad plates or wide, shallow bowls. Sprinkle onions over greens, then add green beans.

Cut beet crosswise into thin slices. Cut each slice into matchsticks and sprinkle over salad. Drizzle on 3 tablespoons of the dressing. Serve immediately.

Note: When buying beets in a can or jar, be sure they are not pickled.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 86; Fat: 4 g; Saturated Fat: under 1 g; Sodium: 119 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

WEST COAST CHICKEN BREAST

Recipe Yield: Serves: 4

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/west-coast-chicken-breast

Source: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Ingredients

4 large skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (about 1 pound)

1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, well drained

1/4 cup packed chopped fresh basil leaves

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1 slice whole wheat bread, crumbled to make soft crumbs

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Prepare a shallow baking dish with olive oil-flavored non stick pan spray.

Pound the chicken breasts to 1/4-inch thickness. Combine the tomatoes, basil, and garlic in a small bowl. Spread the tomato mixture evenly over the chicken breasts; roll up and place seam side down in the prepared baking dish.

Combine the oil, pepper, and paprika in a small bowl; brush evenly over the chicken rolls. Sprinkle with the bread crumbs. Press the crumbs onto the chicken rolls so they adhere.

Bake 15 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the crumbs are browned.

Notes:

Serving size is 1 stuffed chicken breast half. Contains 1g Dietary Fiber and 1 g Sugars.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 198; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 118 mg; Cholesterol: 69 mg; Protein: 26 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 4 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 Fat

Tuesday Recipes

Here are today's six recipes to help you through the day, including Double Chocolate Brownies and Spicy Chicken Thighs. Enjoy!

CHILE CORN PUDDING

Recipe Yield: Serves 6.

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chile-corn-pudding

Ingredients

2 cups fresh corn kernels(10 ears) OR 1 16-oz. can corn kernels, drained

4 eggs

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon cayenne (ground red pepper)

1 (3-oz) can chopped green chiles, drained

1 cup milk

Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. In large bowl, beat together all ingredients. Pour into greased 6-cup baking dish, bake for 45-50 minutes, until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes: This cream corn pudding is a sturdy custard that makes a great mate to a grilled pork roast. It can be served warm or close to room temperature. Leftovers should be covered and refrigerated.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 70; Sodium: 350 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 4 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable

SPICY CHICKEN THIGHS

Recipe Yield: 4 chicken thighs (4 servings)

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spicy-chicken-thighs

Source: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Ingredients

4 medium to large skinless chicken thighs (1-1/2 pounds)

One 8-ounce container plain low-fat yogurt

1/4 cup hot salsa or picante sauce

1 tablespoon curry powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Directions

Place the chicken in a glass dish. In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, salsa, curry powder, and cumin. Pour over the chicken, turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours or up to 24 hours.

Heat the oven to 375 degrees F. Transfer the chicken and sauce to an oven proof dish prepared with nonstick pan spray. Bake, uncovered, 40 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Notes:

Contains 4 g sugars.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 186, Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 139 mg; Cholesterol: 73 mg; Protein: 22 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 3 Lean Meat

WILD & BROWN RICE WITH EXOTIC MUSHROOMS

From Diabetes Self-Management. Can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

1 2/3 cups packaged unseasoned brown and wild rice blend

6 cups water

1/2 ounce dried porcini or morel mushrooms

3/4 cup boiling water

2 tablespoons margarine

8 ounces cremini (brown) or button mushrooms, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme or 2 teaspoons dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup sliced green onions

Directions

Combine rice and water in large saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat. Cover; simmer over low heat until rice is tender (check package for cooking time). Drain, but do not rinse.*

Meanwhile, combine porcini mushrooms and boiling water in small bowl; let stand 30 minutes or until mushrooms are tender. Drain mushrooms, reserving liquid. Chop mushrooms; set aside.

Melt margarine in large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add cremini mushrooms and garlic; cook and stir 5 minutes. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over mushrooms; cook and stir 1 minute or until mushrooms are tender.

Stir drained rice, porcini mushrooms, and reserved mushroom liquid into skillet; cook and stir over medium-low heat 5 minutes or until hot. Stir in green onions. Garnish, if desired.

*Note: Rice may be prepared up to 3 hours before serving and kept covered at room temperature until added to fresh mushroom mixture.

Yield: 8 servings. Serving size: 1/8 of total recipe.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 175, Carbohydrates: 30 g, Protein: 5 g, Fat: 4 g, Saturated Fat: 1 g, Cholesterol: 1 mg, Sodium: 304 mg, Fiber: 2 g

Exchanges per serving: 2 Bread/Starch, 1 Fat.

DOUBLE CHOCOLATE BROWNIES

This recipe begins, “Applesauce replaces part of the fat, Equal all of the sugar, plus you get double the chocolate flavor with both cocoa and chocolate chips – so who can resist these delicious brownies?”

Recipe Yield: 16 brownies

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/double-chocolate-brownies

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/double-chocolate-brownies/print/

Ingredients

6 tablespoons stick butter, softened

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup Equal Spoonful*

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips

6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional: Chopped Walnuts

* May substitute 24 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Beat butter, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla until blended.

Stir in combined flour, Equal, chocolate chips, cocoa, baking powder, nuts (optional) and salt until blended.

Spread batter in sprayed 8-inch square baking pan.

Bake in a preheated 350F oven 18 to 20 minutes or until top springs back when gently touched.

Cool completely on wire rack. Cut into squares.

Store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 77 mg; Cholesterol: 38 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat

ZUCCHINI LEMON BREAD

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/zucchini-lemon-bread

Source: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Recipe Yield: Yields one 18-slice loaf.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup sugar

1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup packed shredded peeled zucchini

1/3 cup chopped walnuts

1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup fat-free milk

1/3 cup canola or corn oil

2 large eggs, or 1/2 cup egg substitute

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan with nonstick pan spray.

Combine the flours, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in a large bowl. Stir in zucchini, walnuts, lemon zest, and cinnamon.

Combine the milk, oil, and eggs; add to the dry ingredients and mix until the dry ingredients are moistened. Spread evenly in the prepared pan.

Bake 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the bread stand in the pan for 5 minutes; turn the loaf out onto a wire cooling rack. When cool, cut in 18 slices.

Notes:

Serving: 1/2-inch thick slice. Also contains 1g dietary fiber and 6g sugars

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 122; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 206 mg; Cholesterol: 24 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Fat

SOUTHWESTERN CHICKEN SALAD

Source: 200 Healthy Recipes in 30 Minutes or Less!

Recipe Yield: Yield: 6 servings

View online: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/southwestern-chicken-salad

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/southwestern-chicken-salad/print/

Ingredients

Salad:

1 cup cooked corn kernels

1 cup diced tomatoes

1 cup green peas, frozen and thawed

1/2 cup each sliced red and green pepper

1/3 cup canned black beans, drained

2 cups cooked, cubed chicken breast

Dressing:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/4 cup lime juice

2 teaspoons cumin

1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon oregano

Directions

Combine all salad ingredients.

In a blender or food processor, blend all dressing ingredients.

Toss the dressing with the salad and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 181; Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 4 g; Sodium: 94 mg; Cholesterol: 42 mg; Protein: 17 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g; Sugars: 4 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Very Lean Meat, 1 Starch, 1/2 Monounsaturated Fat

Meatless Monday

If you use insulin, do you change the injection site every time you give yourself insulin? This hint from Diabetes Self-Management explains why you should pick a slightly different injection site each time. There's also more information here about insulin. Check it out for lots of good info!

And now, on to today's food post.

It's Monday, which, of course, means it's Meatless Monday. Here are six diabetic and vegetarian recipes to help get your week started, including Artichoke Frittata and Baked Acorn Squash with Apple Stuffing. Enjoy!

ZUCCHINI ALLA CECE

Serving: 6

Source: Family Circle's All-Time Favorite Recipes

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/102.shtml

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=102

Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 small zucchini (1/2 pound total), cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

1/2 teaspoon dried basil, crumbled

1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled

1 can (14-3/4 ounces) stewed tomatoes

1 cup canned chick-peas, drained and rinsed

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Heat oil in a medium-size skillet over medium heat. Add onion, zucchini, basil and thyme. Cook, covered, 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in tomatoes, chick-peas and pepper; cover and simmer 5 minutes or until zucchini is just tender. Serve immediately or refrigerate, covered, up to 3 days; gently reheat before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 113; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 349 mg; Carbohydrates: 18 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 1 Fat; 1/2 Vegetable

BAKED ACORN SQUASH WITH APPLE STUFFING

Yield: 4 stuffed squash halves (4 servings)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/803.shtml

Ingredients

2 small acorn squash (1-1/2 pounds total), halved and seeded

1 large or 2 small apples, peeled, diced

2 tablespoons diced celery

2 tablespoons finely chopped onion

2 teaspoons margarine, melted

Pinch of salt

Pinch of freshly ground pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Prepare a square baking pan with nonstick pan spray.

Place the squash cut side down in a baking pan. Bake 20 minutes.

While the squash is baking, combine the apples, celery, onion, margarine, and 2 tablespoons water in a medium bowl; mix well.

Turn the squash, cut sides up. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Divide the apple mixture to fill the cavities of the squash. bake the stuffed squash halves, covered with foil, for 30 minutes more. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 87; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 63 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 5 g; Sugars: 10 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g; Exchanges: 1 Starch

BUTTERY SPAGHETTI SQUASH

Servings: 6

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/103.shtml

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=103

Ingredients

3 pounds spaghetti squash, halved lengthwise, seeded

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1/4 cup chicken broth

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Place squash, cut side down, in a microwave-safe dish. Add 2 tablespoons water. Cover dish tightly with plastic wrap.

Microwave on 100% power 25 to 30 minutes or until squash is tender. Let stand 5 minutes.

Carefully remove plastic wrap. Pull out squash strands with a fork; place in a large bowl.

Mix butter, broth, parsley, salt and pepper; add to squash. Serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 95; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 168 mg; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch; 1 Fat

ROAMAINE, RED ONION, AND FENNEL SALAD WITH TART LIME DRESSING

Servings: 4

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/107.shtml

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=107

Ingredients

1 cup Romaine lettuce

1-1/2 cups fennel bulb, shredded

1 cup cauliflowerets

1/2 cup red onion, sliced thinly

Tart Lime Dressing

1/2 cup lime juice, fresh

1 tbsp olive oil

1 cup garlic, minced

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp ground pepper

1/4 tsp paprika

Directions

SALAD: Wash, dry, and tear lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Arrange lettuce pieces in a salad bowl; toss with shredded fennel, cauliflowerets, and red onion.

To prepare Tart Lime Dressing, combine all dressing ingredients and mix well.

Sprinkle dressing over salad and toss just before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 60; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 6 g; Exchanges: 1 vegetable and 1 fat

ARTICHOKE FRITTATA

Yield: 6 servings

Source: Diabetes Cookbook For Dummies

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/833.shtml

Ingredients

5 large whole frozen artichoke hearts, thawed

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 teaspoon plus a few pinches salt

5 eggs

7 egg whites

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

2 tablespoons finely chopped thyme

Directions

Slice the artichoke hearts into 1/2-inch pieces.

Heat a saute pan over high heat. Lightly coat the bottom with olive oil. When the oil begins to shimmer, add the artichoke slices, reduce the heat to medium-low, and saute the artichokes until they're tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season the artichokes with salt as you saute them. Remove them from the heat.

Crack the eggs into a medium bowl. Add the egg whites and season them with a few pinches of salt. Whisk them until they're well blended.

For a large frittata, heat a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat and then add 1/2 tablespoon of butter and allow it to coat the bottom of the pan. Place half of the cooked artichoke slices in the pan and sprinkle them with parsley and thyme. Reduce the heat to low and pour half of the egg mixture over the artichokes.

Quickly stir everything together so that the artichokes are evenly distributed. Cook the mixture, without stirring, until the eggs are almost set, approximately 4 minutes, and then flip the frittata over and let it cook for another minute or so. Slide out of the pan and onto a serving plate.

Repeat step 4 to make a second frittata. Cut each frittata into 3 pieces. Serve hot or cold with bread.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 119; Protein: 10 g; Sodium: 382 mg; Cholesterol: 182 mg; Carbohydrates: 2 g; Exchanges: 1 Medium-Fat Meat, 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

TORTELLINI EN BROCHETTE

Servings: 20

Source: Family Circle "All-Time Favorite Recipes"

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/106.shtml

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=106

Ingredients

1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated spinach-cheese tortellini

1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated plain cheese tortellini

Parmesan Dip:

1-1/2 cups ranch-style salad dressing

3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

Salt (optional)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Cook tortellini in a large pot of lightly salted boiling water until al dente, firm but tender. Drain; cool under cold running water.

Prepare Parmesan dip: Combine dressing. Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt if desired and pepper in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Skewer tortellini on wooden picks; place on a serving plate. Serve with dip.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 146; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 233 mg; Cholesterol: 33 mg; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch; 2 Low-Fat Milk; 1 Vegetable