Halloween Recipes

Tomorrow is Halloween! Here are six pumpkin recipes to help you through the weekend including Pumpkin Risotto and Pumpkin Cheesecake in Gingersnap Crust. Enjoy!



PUMPKIN SOUP

Recipe Yield: Makes 8 servings.

Source: AICR

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/pumpkin-soup-2

Ingredients

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, divided

4 cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh) (butternut squash may be substituted)

1 cup finely chopped onion

1 clove garlic

1 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

2 Tbsp. light whipping cream (optional)

1 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped

Nutmeg (optional)

Directions

In large pot over medium-high heat add 3 cups broth, pumpkin, onion, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Bring to boil. Reduce to low and simmer uncovered, about 30 minutes.

Puree mixture until smooth, in small batches, using blender or food processor. Return to pot. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes. Add remaining broth as desired. (Optional, stir in cream.)

Pour into bowls. Garnish with parsley (or sprinkle of nutmeg) and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 71; Fat: 1 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 284 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 16 g

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

Wednesday Recipes

We're half-way through the week...Where does the time go?

Here are six recipes to help you through the day, including Turkey Salad with Orange Vinaigrette and Ham Stuffed Zucchini. Enjoy!

CRANBERRY-ALMOND TARTS

Yield: Servings Per Recipe: 24; Serving Size: 1 square tart

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/cranberry-almond-tarts.

Ingredients

1/2 (15 ounce) container refrigerated pie crusts

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1/3 cup water

1 (12 ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed

1/4 cup chopped almonds, toasted

1/2 teaspoon almond extract

1 (8 ounce) carton non-dairy whipped topping

1/4 cup toasted almond slices

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Unroll pastry and roll to 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface; using a 2- inch square cookie cutter, cut out 24 squares, re-rolling pastry, if necessary. Place squares in ungreased miniature muffin pans. Place in freezer.

Combine Splenda Granulated Sweetener and water in a saucepan, stirring until blended. Stir in cranberries. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring constantly 2 minutes or until berries pop. Pour through a wire-mesh sieve, set over a bowl. Return liquid to saucepan; reserving berries. Bring liquid to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes or until liquid is reduced to about 3 tablespoons. Pour sauce over cranberries, tossing to coat. Stir in almonds and almond extract. Spoon mixture into pastry shells.

Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until pastry is golden and filling is set. Carefully remove tarts from muffin tins; cool on a wire rack.

Notes:

Cranberries and almond nestled in a flaky pastry make a sweet ending for a holiday party.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 100; Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 2.5 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Sugars: 3 g

TURKEY SALAD WITH ORANGE VINAIGRETTE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: University of Nebraska

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/turkey-salad-with-orange-vinaigrette.

Ingredients

1/4 cup orange juice

2 tablespoons vinegar, white wine

2 tablespoons onion (finely chopped)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 dash pepper

1 tablespoon oil

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

4 cups salad greens (torn)

2 cups cooked turkey breast, white meat (cut into julienne strips)

1 can mandarin orange segments (11 ounce, drained)

1/2 cup celery (sliced)

Directions

In a jar with tight-fitting lid, combine all vinaigrette ingredients; shake well. If you don't have a container with a tight-fitting lid, place ingredients in a small mixing bowl and mix together with a whisk.

In large bowl, combine all salad ingredients; toss gently.

Serve with vinaigrette. If desired, garnish with fresh strawberries.

Notes:

You can substitute 1-1/2 teaspoons dried chopped onion for the chopped fresh onion or as recommended on the dried onion container.

Prepare the dressing at least 10 minutes before you need it to allow the dried onion to re-hydrate from the fluids in the dressing.

Another way to add crunch to your salad would be to use 4 tablespoons chopped walnuts instead of the celery.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 200; Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sodium: 280 mg; Cholesterol: 50 mg; Protein: 22 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g; Sugars: 10 g

CHICKEN RATATOUILLE

Recipe Yield: Makes: 4 servings

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chicken-ratatouille.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

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

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

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

1 onion (medium, thinly sliced)

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

1/2 pound mushroom (fresh, sliced)

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

1 garlic clove (minced)

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

1 tablespoon parsley (fresh, minced)

black pepper (to taste)

Directions

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

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

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

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

HEARTY MUSHROOM SOUP

Recipe Yield: Prep Time: 15 Minutes; Cost: $; Servings: 6; Difficulty Level: 2

Source: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes"

Book Title: Family Circle's "All-time Favorite Recipes”

View this at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/hearty-mushroom-soup.

Ingredients

1/2 cup chopped onion

3 strips bacon, diced

1 pound mushrooms, thinly sliced

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

5-3/4 cups (46 ounces) chicken broth

1 cup hot water

1 small packet lower-sodium chicken bouillon granules

1-1/4 pounds all-purpose potatoes, peeled and cubed

2 tablespoons dry sherry

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Cook onion and bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat until onion is golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Add mushrooms; cook until liquid evaporates, about 8 minutes. Add flour; cook, stirring, about 1 minute.

Stir broth, water and bouillon granules into saucepan. Add potatoes and sherry; simmer 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Transfer 4 cups of soup mixture to a food processor. Puree and return to pot. Stir in cream. Gently reheat, stirring occasionally.

Ladle into soup bowls. Garnish with parsley.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 222; Fat: 12 g; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 1 Low-Fat Meat, 1 Fat

HAM STUFFED ZUCCHINI

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

View this at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/ham-stuffed-zucchini/print/

Ingredients

8 small zucchini

4 cups low-fat ham, chopped fine

2 eggs or egg substitute, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon basil

1/2 cup green pepper, chopped

1/4 cup low-fat Swiss cheese, shredded

1 tablespoon canola oil

Directions

With a sharp knife, cut off the ends of the zucchini and hollow out the inside, removing the pulp.

In a mixing bowl, combine the ham, eggs, basil, green pepper and cheese.

Pack 1/2 cup of this mixture into each zucchini, using fingers or a teaspoon.

Place the zucchini in a baking dish coated with a non-stick cooking spray.

Brush the stuffed zucchini with oil.

Bake in a preheated 325 degree F oven for 45 minutes. The zucchini will be fork-tender.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 190; Fat: 6.6 g; Sodium: 29 mg; Protein: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3/4 Bread/Starch, 1 Medium-Fat Meat

ZUCCHINI ALLA CECE

Recipe Yield: Serving: 6

Source: Family Circle's All-Time Favorite Recipes

Book Title: Family Circle's All-Time Favorite Recipes

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/zucchini-alla-cece.

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; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 349 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 1 Fat; 1/2 Vegetable

Meatless Monday

It's time for another Meatless Monday. Today's yummy offerings include Easy Vegan Tempeh Chili and Roasted Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary. Enjoy!

CONFETTI BEAN SALAD

Servings: 6

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/43.shtml

Ingredients

16 ounces can mixed cut green & wax beans

1/4 cup onion, chopped

2 tablespoons pimiento, chopped

1/2 cup cider vinegar

Sugar substitute equivalent to 5 teaspoons sugar

1 tablespoon mixed pickling spices

1/4 cup celery, finely chopped

Crisp lettuce leaves

1/4 cup green pepper, chopped

Directions

Drain beans, saving liquid.

Combine this liquid with vinegar in a saucepan.

Add mixed pickling spice, either loose or in a small cheesecloth bag.

Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer gently for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, mix all the vegetables in a bowl.

Remove liquid from heat; add sweetener and stir until dissolved.

Pour over vegetables and remove spice bag or loose spices.

Chill several hours, stirring occasionally.

Drain before serving on crisp lettuce.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 28; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable

EASY VEGAN TEMPEH CHILI

This is from OnTrackDiabetes, a site with some good information for diabetics and their families.

Servings: 6; Prep time: 10 minutes; Cook time: 30 minutes; Total: 40 minutes

You can view this at https://www.ontrackdiabetes.com/recipes/easy-vegan-tempeh-chili.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil

8 ounces tempeh

1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)

1/2 red bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)

1/2 yellow bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)

1/2 orange bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)

1 stalk of celery, chopped

1 15-ounce can of organic pinto beans (undrained)

1 15-ounce can of organic kidney beans (drained)

2 15-ounce cans of fire-roasted diced tomatoes (undrained)

3/4 cup of water

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon oregano

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne (or to taste)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large (6-quart) saucepan on medium heat.

Remove tempeh from the package and crumble it into saucepan. Brown for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add chopped onion, bell peppers and celery to saucepan. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes.

Add beans (1 drained and 1 undrained), tomatoes, water and remaining seasonings. Stir well to combine.

Simmer on low heat for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until peppers are cooked yet still firm.

Nutrition Information Per Serving: 330 calories (33% calories from fat), 18 g protein, 12 g total fat (2 g saturated fat), 38 g carbohydrates, 12 g fiber, 0 mg cholesterol, 767 mg sodium

MASHED TURNIPS WITH ROASTED GARLIC

Servings: 8

Source: The Diabetic Newsletter

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/34.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 pound small turnips, peeled and quartered

1 ripe bartlett pear, about 6 ounces, peeled, cored and chopped

4 cloves garlic, roasted and peeled

1 tablespoon margarine

2 tablespoons skim milk

1/4 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions

Steam turnips over boiling water until fork tender, about 15 minutes.

Drain turnips and place in a food processor or blender along with pear, garlic, and margarine.

Process until smooth, adding skim milk as needed.

Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 41; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable

TERIYAKI TOFU KABOBS

Recipe Yield: Yield 4 servingsServing Size: 2 skewers

Source: The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible

Book Title: The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/teriyaki-tofu-kabobs.

Ingredients

8 bamboo skewers

3/4 pound extra firm tofu, drained and cut into 32 cubes

1 red pepper, cut into 16 squares

1 cup canned pineapple chunks, reserve 1/2 cup juice

1 tablespoon lite soy sauce

1 clove garlic

2 teaspoons minced ginger

Directions

Soak skewers in water for 30 minutes to keep them from burning as you cook the skewers.

Meanwhile, put the tofu, red pepper, and pineapple chunks in a plastic bag or container with a lid. Add reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Drain, reserving marinade to baste. Thread the tofu, red pepper, and pineapple on the skewers.

Prepare an outdoor grill or oven broiler with the rack set 6 inches from the heat source. Grill or broil the kabobs about 5 minutes per side, basting with the marinade. Serve with brown rice.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 107; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 147 mg; Protein: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 17 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat

ROASTED POTATOES WITH GARLIC AND ROSEMARY

Recipe Yield: Makes: 8 to 12 wedges (4 servings)

Source: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

View online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/roasted-potatoes-with-garlic-and-rosemary.

Ingredients

2 large baking potatoes or 3 medium potatoes (1-1/4 pounds total), each cut in 4 wedges

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon crushed rosemary

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a shallow dish or pan with nonstick pan spray.

Arrange the potato wedges in the prepared pan. Combine the oil, garlic, rosemary, and salt in a small bowl. Brush the potatoes lightly with the oil mixture.

Bake until tender and golden brown, about 1 hour, basting with oil from the pan every 15 minutes.

Notes:

Contains 3g sugars.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 136; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 155 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 24 g

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

BLUEBERRY MUFFINS

Blueberry-filled muffins that have a cake-like texture.

Yield: 12 muffins

Serving size: 1 muffin

View Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/998.shtml

Ingredients

2 cups all purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup light margarine, softened

1 cup Splenda Essentials No Calorie Sweetener with Fiber, Granulated

1/4 cup honey

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup 1% low-fat milk

1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, thawed

Directions

Place oven rack in top 1/3 of oven.

Preheat oven to 400F. Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners. Lightly spray liners with nonstick cooking spray.

Sift together flour, baking powder and salt, set aside.

Beat margarine at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add Splenda Essentials Granulated Sweetener and honey, beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating until blended after each addition. Stir in vanilla.

Alternately add flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat at low speed until blended after each addition. Fold in blueberries.

Spoon batter evenly into paper lined muffin cups. Bake 20 to 22 minutes or until golden. Remove from pan immediately and cool on wire rack.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Calories from Fat: 45; Protein: 4 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 280 mg; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g ; Sugars: 8 g ; Carbohydrates: 26 g

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday. (Yay!) Here are six yummy diabetic recipes to help you through the weekend, including Orange Tapioca and Middle Eastern-Style Chicken. Enjoy!

CHICKEN WITH PEPPERS

Servings: 4

Source: 1,001 Recipes For People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/309.shtml

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes

1/2 teaspoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cups frozen stir-fry pepper blend

1 can (15 ounces) chunky Italian-seasoned tomato sauce

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Saute chicken and garlic in oil in large skillet until lightly browned. Push chicken to side of pan; add stir-fry pepper blend and cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce. Heat to boiling; reduce heat and simmer, covered, until chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 215; Protein: 28.5 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 674 mg; Cholesterol: 71 mg; Carbohydrates: 9.7 g; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 3 Meat

NECTARINE AND BERRY TART

Recipe Yield: Serves 8

View online with photo: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/nectarine-and-berry-tart

Print version: https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/nectarine-and-berry-tart/print/

Ingredients

Pastry for single-crust 9-inch pie

5 cups sliced nectarines

1 cup raspberries or sliced strawberries

1 cup fresh or frozen unsweetened blueberries, partially thawed

2 teaspoons lemon juice

3 tablespoons cornstarch

1 cup Equal Spoonful*

1 teaspoon grated lemon rind

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

* May substitute 24 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Roll pastry on floured surface into 12-inch circle. Transfer to ungreased baking sheet.

Toss nectarines and berries with lemon juice in large bowl. Sprinkle fruit with combined cornstarch, Equal, lemon peel and allspice. Toss to coat.

Arrange fruit mixture over pastry, leaving 2-inch border around edge of pastry. Bring edge of pastry toward center, overlapping as necessary.

Bake tart in preheated 425F oven 35 to 40 minutes or until crust is golden and fruit is tender.

Cool on wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 188; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 101 mg; Cholesterol: 5 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 29 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 1 starch, 1 fat

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

ORANGE TAPIOCA

https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/orange-tapioca

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

Source: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Family Cookbook For People with Diabetes

Ingredients

1-1/2 cup fat-free milk

3 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca

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

1 tablespoon sugar

Pinch of salt

1/2 cup orange juice

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 orange, peeled, seeded, and diced

Directions

Combine the milk, tapioca, egg, sugar, and salt in a small non-stick saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.

Remove from the heat. Add the orange juice slowly, stirring constantly. Return to the heat, stirring until the mixture boils again. Remove from the heat.

Let cool 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mix in the vanilla and diced orange. Chill well before serving, at least 2 hours.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: Calories: 117; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 98 mg; Cholesterol: 55 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Other Carbohydrate

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

BEAN AND VEGETABLE STEW

Recipe Yield: 6 Servings (about 1-1/3 cups each)

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes For People With Diabetes

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

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

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion

1 medium Idaho potato, unpeeled, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 large sweet potato, peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes

3/4 cup chopped green bell pepper

1 teaspoon minced garlic

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon flour

1-1/2 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth

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

1 can (16 ounces) tomato wedges, undrained

3/4 teaspoon dried sage leaves

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Saute onion, potato, sweet potato, bell pepper, and garlic in oil in large saucepan 5 minutes; stir in flour and cook 1 to 2 minutes longer.

Add remaining ingredients, except salt and pepper, to saucepan; heat to boiling.

Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until vegetables are tender, 15 to 20 minutes.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 209; Fat: 5.5 g; Sodium: 493 mg; Protein: 7.7 g; Carbohydrates: 39 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 2 Bread/Starch, 1 Fat

Halloween Recipes

Since Halloween is next week, 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, as well as the next one (Pumpkin Boo-kies) came from Diabetic Connect, which is now Upwellbeing. Unfortunately, I can't find a link for either one on the new site.

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!”

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

It's time for another Meatless Monday. Today's diabetic and vegetarian recipes include Summer Ratatouille and Veggie Patch Soup. Enjoy!

STRAWBERRY-PEACH COOLER

This comes from Diabetic Gourmet.

Recipe Yield: Yield: 2 servings Serving size: 1 cup

Source: The Diabetes Snack, Munch, Nibble, Nosh Book

Book Title: The Diabetes Snack, Munch, Nibble, Nosh Book

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 cup dry-pack unsweetened frozen strawberries

2/3 cup dry-pack unsweetened frozen peaches

3/4 cup orange juice

Directions

In a 2-cup measure or similar microwave-safe bowl, combine the strawberries and peaches.

Cover with wax paper, and microwave on high power 45 seconds to 1 minute to thaw the fruit slightly. The fruit should be icy but not hard.

Working with a small knife in the measuring cup, cut each peach slice in half.

Transfer the peaches and strawberries to a blender container.

Add the orange juice. Blend on low power to combine. Then increase power to high and continue to blend until the peaches are completely pureed, at least 1-1/2 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 105; Fiber: 3 g; Sodium: 2 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g; Sugars: 23 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Fruit

SIMPLE VEGGIE SKEWERS

Source: The Complete Diabetes Prevention Plan

Recipe Yield: Yield: 12 appetizers

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/simple-veggie-skewers

Ingredients

1 medium-small zucchini squash

12 cubes (3/4-inches each) reduced-fat white cheddar, provolone, or Swiss cheese (about 3 ounces)

12 small whole fresh mushrooms

12 pitted jumbo black olives

12 cherry or grape tomatoes

12 wooden skewers (6-inches each)

1/2 cup light ranch salad dressing (optional)

Directions

Trim the ends off the zucchini, quarter it lengthwise, and cut into 3/4-inch pieces.

Thread 1 of the zucchini pieces, 1 cube of cheese, 1 mushroom, 1 olive, 1 tomato, and another zucchini piece onto each skewer.

Serve immediately (accompanied by the dressing if desired) or cover and chill for several hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 58; Fat: 2.8 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 138 mg; Cholesterol: 7 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g

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

VEGGIE PATCH SOUP

Recipe Yield: Yield: 10 servings

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

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

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/veggie-patch-soup

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; Fiber: 4 g; Sodium: 383 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Sugars: 7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 2 Vegetable

SUMMER RATATOUILLE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 (1 cup) servings

Source: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking

Book Title: Express Lane Diabetic Cooking

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/summer-ratatouille

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;Fat: 6 g; Fiber: 4 g; Sodium: 299 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Sugars: 7 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Vegetable, 1 Fat

DOUBLE CHOCOLATE BROWNIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 16 brownies

Source: Equal

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/double-chocolate-brownies

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.

Notes:

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?

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

BUTTERNUT SQUASH ENCHILADAS WITH SALSA VERDE

Recipe Yield: Yield: Makes 8 servings.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/butternut-squash-enchiladas-with-salsa-verde

Ingredients

1 package (16 oz.) diced peeled butternut squash, or 1 1/4 lb. squash, seeded, peeled and diced

Canola oil spray

1 can (15.5 oz.) pinto beans, rinsed and drained

3/4 cup (3 oz.) crumbled reduced-fat feta cheese, divided

8 large (about 7-inch) corn tortillas

1 jar (16 oz.) salsa verde

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Place squash in medium saucepan. Add 1 cup water. Cover pot tightly, and place over medium-high heat. Cook until squash is tender but not mushy, 12-15 minutes, depending on size of cubes. Drain squash, and set aside.

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Select a baking dish just large enough to hold the eight tortillas, folded over and slightly overlapping, so that they fit snuggly in the dish. (You may want to "test" and see if the baking dish is the proper size by arranging unfilled, folded tortillas in it, as they would be once filled and ready to bake.) using the canola oil spray, lightly coat the interior of the baking dish and set aside.

Place beans in mixing bowl. Using fork, partially mash beans. Add squash and blend, leaving mixture coarsely mashed, with some beans still whole. Mix in 1/2 cup of the cheese. Season filling to taste with salt and pepper.

Coat a tortilla on both sides with cooking spray. Lay it on a plate. Spoon 3/4 cup of filling on one half of the tortilla. Fold tortilla in half over filling. Set it at one end of the baking dish. Repeat, placing filled tortillas so they overlap, filling baking dish tightly. Pour pureed sauce over assembled enchiladas. Sprinkle remaining cheese over sauce. Cover pan with foil.

Bake enchiladas about 30 minutes, until they are heated through and tortillas are soft. Uncover and serve garnished with cilantro, accompanied by cooked brown rice, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 180; Fat: 2 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 479 mg; Protein: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 33 g

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday. Yay! Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the weekend, including Turkey London Broil and Mini Chicken and Bacon Tacos. Enjoy!

CLASSIC BEEF TACOS

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "Stuffed with seasoned ground beef, diced tomato, lettuce, sour cream and cheese, you can’t go wrong with this classic taco—unless you forget to crack open a cold Corona™ Extra to go with it, that is."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 25 minutes; Makes 10 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/classic-beef-taco.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (at least 80% lean)

2/3 cup water

1 package (1 oz) Old El Paso™ original taco seasoning mix

1 package (4.7 oz) Old El Paso™ Stand ‘N Stuff™ taco shells (10 shells), heated as directed on package

1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (5 oz)

1 1/4 cups shredded lettuce

3/4 cup diced tomato

1 cup sour cream

Preparation

In 10-inch nonstick skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in water and taco seasoning mix; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.

Divide beef among heated shells; top with cheese, lettuce, tomato and sour cream.

Expert Tips

Choose crunchy lettuce for this recipe, such as iceberg or romaine.

Want more toppings? Try sliced green onion, sliced jalapeño, or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce.

Nutrition: 1 Taco Calories 260 (Calories from Fat 160); Total Fat 17g (Saturated Fat 8g, Trans Fat 0.5g); Cholesterol 55mg; Sodium 360mg; Total Carbohydrate 12g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 1g); Protein 13g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 8%; Vitamin C 0%; Calcium 15%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1 Starch, 1 Medium-Fat Meat, 1/2 High-Fat Meat, 1 1/2 Fat; Carbohydrate Choice: 1

CHICKEN IN WINE SAUCE

Recipe Yield: Servings: 6; 1 serving = 1 piece with sauce

Source: Gourmet Inspirations Healthy Cooking

Book Title: Gourmet Inspirations Healthy Cooking

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chicken-in-wine-sauce.

Ingredients

6 single chicken breasts (24 oz. raw weight) skinned, boned and washed

1 teaspoon butter

1 teaspoon oil

3 tablespoons cornstarch

1-1/2 chicken broth, unsalted

1/3 cup skim milk

1/3 cup lemon juice

1/3 cup dry white wine

3 cloves garlic, crushed

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, fresh, grated

Directions

Prepare chicken breasts and set aside.

Place butter in large skillet, heating to medium high.

Place chicken breasts in 9" x 13" glass baking dish which has been sprayed with non-stick spray.

Pour oil into hot skillet. Stir in cornstarch and small amount of chicken broth. Stir until smooth.

Remove pan from heat and, slowly, add 1 cup of broth.

Return to heat, stir constantly, and add remaining broth, milk, lemon juice, wine, and garlic.

When sauce has thickened slightly, pour over chicken breasts.

Sprinkle Parmesan over chicken.

Bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees F.

Serve over brown rice.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 183; Fat: 7 g; Protein: 21 g; Carbohydrates: 6 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Low-Fat Meat

TURKEY LONDON BROIL

Recipe Yield: Serves: 6

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/turkey-london-broil.

Ingredients

4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1/3 cup olive oil

1 tablespoon grated lemon rind

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup dry white wine

1 boneless, skinless turkey breast (2 pounds)

Directions

Combine garlic, oil, lemon rind and juice, oregano, parsley, salt, pepper and wine in a 13x9x2-inch baking dish.

Place turkey breast, smooth side down, on a cutting board. Starting in center of thickest part on one half of the breast, cut meat horizontally in half but not all the way through. Spread meat out like an open book. Press lightly on thickest parts to make a rectangle of even thickness.

Place turkey in marinade in dish; turn several times to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour to marinate.

Heat broiler, or prepare a charcoal grill with hot coals, or heat a gas grill to medium-high. Place broiler pan or grill rack 4 inches from source of heat.

Remove turkey from marinade. Bring marinade to boiling in a small saucepan; boil 5 minutes. Broil or grill turkey 8 to 10 minutes per side or until internal temperature registers 170 degrees on an instant-read thermometer; baste with marinade every minute until last 3 or 4 minutes. Let turkey rest about 5 minutes. Cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 297; Fat: 14 g; Sodium: 158 mg; Cholesterol: 102 mg; Protein: 37 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 4-1/2 Low-Fat Meat

CHICKEN AND SPINACH SALAD

Recipe Yield: Yield: 14 cups (7 - 2 cups servings)

Source: Cooking Healthy and Fast

Book Title: Cooking Healthy and Fast

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chicken-and-spinach-salad.

Ingredients

6 oz. fresh spinach

2 oranges, peeled and cut into chunks

2 cups cooked and cubed chicken

2 cups fresh strawberries

Dressing:

2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar

3 Tbsp. orange juice

1-1/2 Tbsp. canola oil

1/4 tsp. dry mustard

1/3 tsp. poppy seeds

Directions

Mix dressing ingredients and regrigerate. Wash spinach and tear into bite size pieces. Add oranges, chicken and strawberries. Serve with dressing.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 135; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 46 mg; Cholesterol: 31 mg; Carbohydrates: 10 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 1 1/2 lean meat

CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chocolate-cheesecake.

Ingredients

Crust:

3/4 cup graham crackers crumbs

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

2 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons canola or olive oil

Filling:

3 large egg whites

1/3 cup sugar

2 cups nonfat ricotta cheese

1/4 cup cocoa

1/3 cup yogurt cheese **

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

** Place plain, nonfat yogurt into cheese cloth or a coffee filter. Place in strainer over a small bowl or cup. Allow to drain 2 to 24 hours, covered and refrigerated, until cheese reached desired consistency. Discard the whey (liquid). Store in covered container in refrigerator.

Directions

Part 1:

Preheat oven TO 350F. Spray 8-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Fill a 13x9x2-inch pan halfway with hot water.

Place in oven on shelf below where chocolate cheesecake will be placed. This will prevent the top of cheesecake from cracking.

In small bowl, combine all crust ingredients. Press onto bottom and part-way up sides of pan. Set aside.

Part 2:

In food processor or blender, combine egg whites, sugar, ricotta, cocoa, yogurt cheese and vanilla; process, scraping sides occasionally, for 1 minute until smooth and thick. Pour into crust.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes until filling is just set (center will jiggle slightly). Turn off oven and leave cake in closed oven 5 minutes longer.

Remove from oven and cool about an hour on wire rack. Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 176; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 140 m; Protein: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch; 1/2 skim milk

MINI CHICKEN AND BACON TACOS

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, "You can't go wrong with a chicken, bacon and ranch taco flavor combination, and Old El Paso's Soft Tortilla Bowls™ are the perfect way to deliver these mini chicken tacos to your mouth. You can cook from scratch or you can pick up an easy rotisserie chicken and some pre-cooked bacon; do what works for you and your schedule to enjoy this delicious take on mini tacos."

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 30 minutes; Makes 6 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/mini-chicken-and-bacon-tacos.

Ingredients

1 package (12 count) Old El Paso™ Mini Soft Tortilla Bowls

1 cup chopped deli rotisserie chicken

1 cup Old El Paso™ Shredded Cheddar Cheese

1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon

1/4 cup sliced green onions

1/3 cup Old El Paso™ Zesty Ranch sauce

1/2 cup quartered grape tomatoes

Preparation

Heat oven to 375°F. In ungreased 13x9-inch (3-quart) baking dish, place tortilla bowls.

In small bowl, mix chicken, 1/2 cup of the cheese, the bacon, green onions and sauce; mix well.

Divide chicken mixture evenly among tortilla bowls; top with remaining cheese.

Bake 12 to 14 minutes or until hot and cheese is melted. Top with tomatoes and additional green onions and sauce, if desired.

Expert Tips

Serve these with fresh vegetables for a hearty snack or a light lunch.

Don’t care for tomatoes? Leave them out, and they’re just as delicious.

Leftover cooked chicken can be substituted for the deli rotisserie chicken in this recipe.

Nutrition: 6 servings (2 bowls each); 1 Serving: Calories 250 (Calories from Fat 120); Total Fat 13g (Saturated Fat 6g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 45mg; Sodium 590mg; Total Carbohydrate 17g (Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 1g); Protein 14g

% Daily Value: Vitamin A 4%; Vitamin C 2%; Calcium 15%; Iron 8%

Exchanges: 1 Other Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat, 1 High-Fat Meat, 1 Fat; Carbohydrate Choice: 1

Desserts

If you've recently been diagnosed with dibetes, you might think that desserts are a thing of the past.

Nonsense! First off, these desserts will prove that there are some desserts that are okay for diabetics. And the second thing? Moderation!

That said, here are six desserts to try, including Not So Guilty Brownies and Cinnamon Pumpkin Torte. Enjoy!

CHOCOLATE CHERRY TARTS

Servings: 24

Source: Cinnamon Hearts

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chocolate-cherry-tarts.

Ingredients

2 (8oz) packages Neufchatel (light) cream cheese, room temp

2/3 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs, room temp

1 tsp vanilla extract

24 Keebler chocolate wafers, 30% reduced fat

1 (21oz) can light cherry pie filling

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Line muffin tins with foil and paper cupcake liners.

Beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla extract and beat until smooth. Place a chocolate wafer in each cup, spoon on cheese mixture. Bake 18 to 20 minutes; remove from tins and let cool. Top with cherry pie filling. Chill overnight before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 118; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 104 mg; Cholesterol: 24 mg; Carbohydrates: 16 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 bread; 1/2 fruit; 1/2 protein; 1 fat

LEMON CHIFFON PIE

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/lemon-chiffon-pie.

Ingredients

3 tbsp margarine

3 tbsp sugar

3/4 cup graham wafer crumbs

1/2 tsp lemon peel, grated

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1/8 tsp salt

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1/4 cup lemon juice

1/8 tsp allspice

1/2 cup sweetener equivalent to sugar

1 tbsp unflavored gelatine (1 pkg)

1/3 cup powdered skim milk

1/2 cup water

1/3 cup ice water

2 eggs, separated

1 tbsp lemon juice

Directions

Melt margarine in a pie plate at high for 30-45 seconds. Combine graham crumbs and spices. Add to pie plate and combine well with a fork. Spread evenly over bottom of pie plate. Microwave at high for 3-5 min, watching carefully to prevent scorching. Allow to cool before filling.

In a large measure, sprinkle gelatin on 1/2 cup water. Allow to soften. In a separate bowl, combine egg yolks, sugar, lemon peel, salt and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Microwave at medium for 5-8 min until mixture comes to a boil stirring every 2 minutes. Add gelatin and sweetener and mix well. Refrigerate until slightly thickened.

Beat egg whites, powdered milk, ice water and 1 tbsp lemon juice until stiff. Carefully fold gelatin mixture into egg whites. Pour into crust. Refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 115; Fat: 5 g; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 15 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch/Bread, 1 Fat

BLUEBERRY TORTE DESSERT

Recipe Yield: Servings: 6 (1 Serving = 1/2 cup)

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/blueberry-torte-dessert.

Ingredients

3 eggs, separated

1 tbsp sugar

1/3 cup ground almonds

2-1/2 cup fresh blueberries

2 tsp cornstarch

1/2 cup whipping cream

1 tsp sugar substitute

1/2 cup vanilla yogurt

Directions

Beat egg yolks and sugar until light. Add almonds. Beat egg whites until stiff. Fold egg whites into egg yolk mixture.

Line a 13 x 9 inch baking pan with waxed paper. Pour batter into the pan. Bake in a 325F oven for 12 to 15 minutes.

Remove from the pan and cool. Cut into small squares.

To make blueberry sauce, puree 1/2 cup blueberries in a food processor or blender. Dissolve cornstarch in cream. Cook cream, remaining blueberries, and blueberry puree over low heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Cool. Stir in sugar substitute.

To serve, line a serving dish with 1/2 of blueberry sauce; arrange cake squares over blueberry sauce. Top with remaining sauce. Spoon on yogurt. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 177; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 357 mg; Protein: 8 g; Carbohydrates: 14 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Skim Milk; 2 Fat

CRUMB TOPPED CHERRY PIE DESSERT

Recipe Yield: Servings: 12

Source: Sweet Inspirations

Book Title: Sweet Inspirations

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/crumb-topped-cherry-pie-dessert.

Ingredients

Pastry for a one-crust pie

2 (1lb) cans red tart cherries (packed in water)

1/2 cup fruit sweetener** (1/4 cup frozen apple juice concentrate plus 1/4 cup granulated fructose)

3 tbsp cornstarch

1/4 cup water

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp. grated lemon peel

2 tbsp lemon juice

A few drops of red food coloring (optional)

2 tbsp almond flavoring

Topping:

1/4 cup flour

1/2 cup instant mashed potato or buds

1/4 cup fruit sweetener** (1/8 cup frozen apple juice concentrate plus 1/8 cup granulated fructose)

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1/4 cup margarine

**You can find commercial fruit sweeteners, ordinarily a combination of concentrated peach & pear juices and unsweetened pineapple syrup, in health food stores, gourmet food stores and large grocery outlets. It tastes 1-1/2 to 2 times sweeter than refined sugar. You can also make your own fruit sweetener. For example, if a recipe calls for 1/2 cup fruit sweetener, you can substitute 1/4 cup concentrated apple juice + 1/4 cup granulated fructose.

Directions

Line 9-inch pie pan with prepared pastry. Set aside.

Drain cherries, reserving one cup of the liquid. In a saucepan, combine cornstarch and 1/4 cup water, stirring until smooth. Add cherry liquid, fruit sweetener and salt. Simmer mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Remove from heat and add cherries, peel, lemon juice, food coloring and almond flavoring. Pour into prepared pie shell.

Combine last six ingredients and blend to crumbly consistency. Sprinkle over pie filling. Bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Cut into 12 pieces.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 178; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 128 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 2/3 Fruit, 1-1/2 Fat

CINNAMON PUMPKIN TORTE

Recipe Yield: 24 Servings

Source: Magic Herbs

Book Title: Magic Herbs

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

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread/Starch; 1 Vegetable

NOT SO GUILTY BROWNIES

Recipe Yield: Servings: 24

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/not-so-guilty-brownies.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients:

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 cup oil

2 tsp chocolate extract or flavor

2 eggs

Frosting Ingredients:

3/4 cup powdered sugar

1 T unsweetened cocoa

1 T skim or 2% milk

1/2 tsp chocolate extract or flavor

1/8 tsp butter flavor

Directions

Heat oven to 350F.

Grease bottom only of 8-inch square pan.

Combine all brownie ingredients in a medium bowl and mix well. Spread in greased pan.

Bake at 350 F. for 13-18 minutes, or until top is dry and springs back when touched lightly in center.

Cool for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine all frosting ingredients in a small bowl & mix well.

Spread over top of slightly cooled brownies or cut brownies into squares and drizzle with frosting (as shown, adjust milk to get the right consistency).

Cool completely.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 80; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 50 mg; Cholesterol: 18 mg; Carbohydrates: 13 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Fat

Meatless Monday

It's time for another Meatless Monday. Today's offerings include Italian Lentil Stew and Almond-Stuffed Pears. Enjoy!

TORTELLINI EN BROCHETTE

Recipe Yield: 20 Servings

Source: Family Circle "All-Time Favorite Recipes"

Book Title: Family Circle "All-Time Favorite Recipes”

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/tortellini-en-brochette

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; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 233 mg; Cholesterol: 33 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch; 2 Low-Fat Milk; 1 Vegetable

ZUCCHINI ALLA CECE

Recipe Yield: Serving: 6

Source: Family Circle's All-Time Favorite Recipes

Book Title: Family Circle's All-Time Favorite Recipes

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/zucchini-alla-cece.

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; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 349 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 18 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 1 Fat; 1/2 Vegetable

ALMOND-STUFFED PEARS

Yield: 2 servings

Online Recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/663.shtml

Source: Mix 'n Match Meals in Minutes for People with Diabetes

Book Info: http://diabeticgourment.com/book_archive/details/13.shtml

Ingredients

2 small ripe pears

2 tablespoons slivered almonds

2 teaspoons almond extract

Garnish: Mint leaves (optional)

Directions

Slice pears in half and remove core. Cut a thin slice from the rounded side of the pear so that it will sit flat.

Toast slivered almonds in a toaster oven until slightly golden, about 30 seconds.

Place pear halves on 2 small dessert plates and sprinkle almond extract in the cored center of each half.

Spoon slivered almonds in the cored center and place sprig of mint on the side.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 141; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 1 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 18 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Fruit, 1 Fat

STUFFED PEPPERS

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

Source: The New American Heart Association Cookbook

Book Title: The New American Heart Association Cookbook

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/stuffed-peppers.

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers, any color or combination

1 teaspoon olive oil

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

1 medium crookneck squash, diced (about 2 cups)

1 medium zucchini, diced (about 2 cups)

1/2 cup diced onion (1 medium)

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

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

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

1/4 cup sliced water chestnuts (2 ounces)

1 cup no-salt-added tomato juice

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

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

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

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 119; Fat: 1 g; Sodium: 68 mg; Cholesterol: 1 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Low-Fat Milk, 2 Vegetable

CORN AND BLACK BEAN SALAD

Recipe Yield: Makes 4 cups. Serving size about 1/2 cup.

Source: NPB

Recipe and image appear courtesy of the National Pork Board.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/corn-and-black-bean-salad.

Ingredients

1 (15-oz.) can cooked black beans, drained

1 (10-oz.) can corn kernels, drained

1/2 green bell pepper, chopped

1/2 red bell pepper, chopped

2 green onions, sliced

2 tablespoon minced parsley

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 tablespoons lime juice

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

In large bowl, toss together ingredients, except pepper. Generously sprinkle salad with pepper. Cover and refrigerate 2-24 hours before serving.

Notes:

Purple black beans, golden sweet corn and diced red and green bell pepper make a colorful medley in this easy salad. Make it ahead and refrigerate; it keeps up to 5 days.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 120; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 60 mg; Cholesterol: 66 mg; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 20 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 1 Vegetable, 1 Fat

ITALIAN LENTIL STEW

Makes 8 servings if served as a stew, more if thinned to a soup.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/articles/lentils-help-take-the-chill-out-of-winter/.

Ingredients

1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 medium carrot, finely chopped (about 1 cup)

1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)

1 cup diced fennel

1-1/2 cups green or small brown lentils

1/2 cup finely-chopped flat-leaf parsley

1/2-1 tsp. basil

1/2-1 tsp. marjoram

1/2-1 tsp. chopped dried chives

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/3 cup small pasta

Directions

In a small Dutch oven or 3-quart saucepan, heat the oil over medium high heat. Stir in the carrot, onion and fennel and cook 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, just to soften the vegetables slightly. Add the lentils and 6 cups water. Stir in parsley, basil, marjoram and chives. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, uncovered.

Stir in the salt, pepper and pasta. Cook until the pasta is done and the lentils are soft, 10 to 15 minutes. Add more water, stirring it in gradually until mixture is desired consistency. Adjust seasonings and add more herbs if desired. (This dish can also be served as a soup, depending on the amount of water used.) At this point, the stew (or soup) can be served, or stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday. Yay! Here are six recipes to help you through the weekend , including Italian Spinach Pie and Walnut Fudge! Yes, fudge - and it's a diabetic dessert. There's also sweet potatoes and more. Enjoy!

ASPARAGUS CHEF SALAD

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/227.shtml

Source: Cooking Healthy and Fast

Yield: 4-1/2 (1 cup) servings

Ingredients

2-1/2 lb. asparagus, trimmed

8 oz. mushrooms, sliced

2 oz. part-skim julienne Swiss cheese

2 oz. lean julienne ham

1 Tbsp.finely chopped onion

1 orange, peeled and cubed

Dressing:

1 pkg. lemon and herb salad dressing mix

2 Tbsp. water

1/4 cup vinegar

1/4 cup vegetable oil

Directions

Chop asparagus into bite-sized pieces and place in a microwavve-proof casserole dish. Add 2 Tbsp. water, cover, and Microwave for 2 minutes. Drain. Measure remaining ingredients into a salad bowl. Add asparagus when completely cool.

Prepare dressing in a shaker container and add approximately 1/3 of it to the salad. Save remaining dressing for greens and fresh vegetables.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 151; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 347 mg; Cholesterol: 25 mg; Exchanges: 2 Vegetable; 1 Lean Meat; 1 Fat

WALNUT FUDGE

Yield: 48 2-inch-square pieces, 1 piece per serving.

Source: The Diabetic Dessert Cookbook

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/607.shtml

<i>Ingredients

3 cups carob

1/4 teaspoon artificial sweetener

1 (14 -ounce) can sweet condensed milk (not evaporated milk)

1 cup chopped walnuts

1-1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

48 walnut halves

Directions

In a heavy 2-quart saucepan, combine the carob, artificial sweetener and condensed milk. Cook over low heat until carob is completely melted. Remove from heat.

Add chopped walnuts and vanilla extract. Stir until completely mixed.

Pour into a 9" x 9" square pan. Chill in refrigerator until almost firm.

Score the top of the fudge into squares 2" x 1/2" deep. Place a walnut half on the top of each square.

Chill until firm. Finish cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 137; Protein: 4 g ; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 11 mg; Cholesterol: 4 mg; Dietary Fiber: 0.3 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Exchanges: 1 Bread/Starch, 1-1/2 Fat

STEAMED GREENS WITH GINGER AND WATER CHESTNUTS

Yield: Makes 4 servings.

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/510.shtml

Ingredients

3 cups mixed leafy greens, e.g. bok choy (Chinese cabbage or Chinese chard), spinach, Swiss chard leaves, collards or kale, stems removed

1 tsp. peeled, finely-minced fresh ginger

1 tsp. finely-minced fresh garlic

1/2 Tbsp. sesame seed oil, or as needed

1/2 cup diced canned water chestnuts (rinsed and drained)

Salt and freshly-ground black pepper

Directions

Steam each type of greens separately, until tender, adding each cooked green to a large plate. (Each type takes a different length of time to cook, some as little as 30 seconds.) Sprinkle ginger and garlic over the entire batch of greens, then evenly drizzle a small amount of oil on top.

Meanwhile, heat a small amount of the oil in a small pan over medium heat until hot. Add water chestnuts and sauté 30 seconds. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a plate covered with paper towels to remove excess oil. Scatter water chestnuts on top of greens.

Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 30; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 19 mg; Carbohydrates: 3 g; Less than 1 g. saturated fat; 1 g. dietary fiber; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

CHICKPEA SALAD

Yield: 2 servings

Source: Diabetes Cookbook for Dummies

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/622.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1/4 cup celery, chopped

1/4 cup red pepper, chopped

1/4 cup red onion, chopped

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon white pepper

2 tablespoons lowfat mayonnaise

Pita bread or mixed greens

Directions

In a bowl, coarsely mash the chickpeas.

Add the celery, red pepper, onion, salt, pepper, and mayonnaise and toss well.

Serve over pita bread or mixed greens.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 206; Protein: 10 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 641 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 35 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 1-1/2 Very Lean Meat, 1/2 Fat

ORANGE-LIME SWEET POTATOES

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes

Servings: 6 (about 1/2 cup each)

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

ITALIAN SPINACH PIE

Makes: 8 servings

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/626.shtml

Source: Kraft

Ingredients

1 container (16 oz.) Breakstone's or Knudsen 2% Milkfat Low Fat Cottage Cheese

1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed, well drained

1 cup Kraft Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese

4 eggs, lightly beaten

1 jar (7 oz.) roasted red peppers, well drained, chopped

1/3 cup Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese

1 tsp. dried oregano leaves

Options: Substitute 1/2 cup chopped red bell peppers for the roasted peppers.

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Mix all ingredients until well blended.

Pour into greased 9-inch pie plate.

Bake 40 min. or until center is set.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 150; Protein: 15 g; Fat: 8 g; Sodium: 450 mg; Cholesterol: 125 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 6 g; Exchanges: 1 Vegetable + 2 Lean Meat