Vegetable Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 tsp. canola oil
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 4 scallions, sliced
• 2 tsp. ground ginger
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 lb. snow peas, sliced on diagonal
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cups leftover cooked brown rice
• 1 (10 oz.) package frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
• 8 oz. firm tofu, cut into 1/2-inch dice
• 3 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil

Makes 6 Servings (1 1/4 cups per serving)

1. Heat wok over medium-high heat until drop of water sizzles. Add 1 teaspoon of canola oil. Add eggs and stir-fry until set; transfer to plate. 
2. Add remaining 1/2 teaspoon canola oil to wok; add scallions, ginger and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant. Add snow peas and bell pepper; stir-fry 2 minutes. Add rice, mixed vegetables. and tofu; stir-fry until heated through. Return eggs to wok along with soy sauce and sesame oil; stir-fry until mixed well. 

WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Family Meals Cookbook. Chinese food is so delicious. If you're craving Chinese takeout, don't go out and/or don't pick up the phone and order Chinese food. You can make this dish in 20 minutes or less and it will taste just as delicious as what you would order. This dish is filled with colorful vegetables and it's flavorful too. The three ingredients in Chinese cuisine are scallions, ginger and garlic. Mixed vegetables can include broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. You can have this dish as a full vegetarian dish or as a side dish and it will still be delicious. 

Plum Rice Pudding

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. slivered almonds
• 2 cups whole-grain brown rice
• 1 1/4 cups half-and-half
• 1 tbsp. + 1 tsp. granular sugar substitute
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 2 small plums, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

Makes 4 Servings

1. Heat the oven to 275 F. Spread almonds on a baking sheet and toast, stirring once, until fragrant and golden, about 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and cool.
2. While almonds are toasting, in a medium saucepan bring rice, half-and-half, sugar substitute, and vanilla to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add plums and cinnamon; cook until liquid is absorbed and plums are softened, about 8 minutes. Transfer pudding to 4 dessert bowls, sprinkle evenly with almonds, and serve hot.

WW POINTS VALUE: 4 pts. (2/3 cup per serving)

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Taste of Summer Cookbook. This dish was surprisingly delicious. Who knew rice pudding could be so delicious? Plum rice pudding is quite flavorful and tasty. The plums literally melt in your mouth with the vanilla and cinnamon. The almonds add a nice crunch to the treat. You can use any kind of plum in this recipe and the dish will still be tasty. 

Baby Porcupines

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground skinless turkey breast
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 cup fresh whole wheat bread crumbs
• 1 small onion, grated
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 16 slices pitted black olives (about 4 olives)
• 1/2 cup apple juice or dry white wine

Makes 8 Servings (1 porcupine per serving)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Combine turkey, rice, bread crumbs, onion, ketchup, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until combined well. Form into 8 small oval-shaped loaves; press 2 olive slices into each loaf for eyes.
3. Place loaves in 9 X 13-inch baking dish. Pour apple juice or wine around loaves. Bake until instant-read thermometer inserted into center of loaves registers 165 F, about 35 minutes.

WW POINTS VALUE: 4 pts.

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Family Meals Cookbook. These are wonderful treats to make and enjoy on the weekend. These baby porcupines are filled with flavor and a succulent and juicy. If you don't have apple juice on hand, substitute dry white wine and the porcupines will be just as tasty. I also highly recommend adding minced garlic to the porcupines because garlic always makes everything taste better. 

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb. lean ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp. tomato paste
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. minced fresh thyme
• 1 tsp. minced dried basil 
• 4 bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeded
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce

Makes 4 Servings (1 stuffed pepper per serving)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Mix together beef or turkey, rice onion, peas, Parmesan, tomato paste, garlic, thyme, and basil in a large bowl; spoon evenly into bell peppers. Stand peppers in shallow baking dish or casserole. Pour tomato puree over peppers; add enough water to baking dish to come partway up sides of peppers. 
3. Cover baking dish with foil and bake, basting peppers occasionally with tomato liquid, 30 minutes. Uncover and bake until peppers and rice are tender and filling is cooked through, about 20 minutes longer. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts.

Note: This recipe appears in the WW New Complete Cookbook. Here is another version of comfort food that can be good for you. You can use ground beef or ground turkey in this recipe and the dish will still be filling and tasty. You forget this comfort food is good for you with all the vegetables, protein and  brown rice in this dish. These peppers will fill you up so you may not have enough room for dessert. 

Seafood Paella

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 (4 oz.) low-fat chorizo sausage link
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup quick-cooking whole-grain brown rice
• 1 1/2 cups lower-sodium chicken broth
• 2 roasted red peppers (from a jar), thinly sliced
• pinch saffron
• 1/2 lb. large shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 2 large plum tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen baby peas
• 1 1/2 lbs. littleneck clams or cockles (about 2 dozen), cleaned
• 1 1/2 lbs. mussels (about 2 dozen), cleaned
• freshly ground black pepper

Makes 4 Servings

1. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes; transfer to a cutting board. Add onion and garlic to the pan; cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, cut sausage into thin slices. Return sausage to the pan and add wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Add rice, broth, red peppers, and saffron; bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in shrimp, tomatoes, and peas. Add clams and mussels, cover, and cook until clams and mussels open, about 5 minutes. Discard any shellfish that haven't opened. Season lightly with black pepper. Divide among 4 bowls and serve warm.

WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Taste of Summer Cookbook. Paella is considered to be the national dish of Spain. I have never been to Spain but I've had paella a couple of times and paella is delicious. This is a healthy version of paella and it is flavorful and delicious. The original recipe called for a low-fat hot Italian turkey sausage link. I recommend using a chorizo sausage for an authentic Spanish taste. Chorizo is always used in paella so please don't insult the national dish of Spain. Also, bomba rice is typically use in making paella but this recipe calls for whole grain brown rice and the paella tastes just as good and it's perfect for people who are prone to heart disease, diabetes and other health concerns. If you don't have or like clams or mussels, double up on the shrimp and the paella will still be delicious. Paella is a wonderful comfort food and it's perfect for any kind of party or gathering. Serve this and company will eat this up.

Tropical Shrimp & Rice

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup quick-cooking whole-grain rice
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut
• 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 small mango, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp. grated lime zest
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Makes 4 (11/2 -cup) Servings

1. Cook rice according to package directions. Transfer to a large bowl to cool.
2. While rice is cooking, heat the oven to 350 F. Spread coconut on a baking sheet and bake until golden, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.
3. Bring a saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil. Add shrimp, reduce to a simmer, and cook until shrimp turn pink, 1-2 minutes. Transfer shrimp to the bowl with rice.
4. Add coconut, mango, parsley, oil, lime juice and zest, salt, and pepper to shrimp mixture; toss well. Divide shrimp and rice among 4 bowls and serve at room temperature.

WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Taste of Summer Cookbook. This dish was an unexpected surprise. This shrimp dish was very tasty and filling. The combination of toasted coconut and the mango add a nice sweetness to the dish and make it more succulent and juicy. Don't be intimidated if the dish looks a little messy. It actually tastes good when you combine the shrimp, mango, coconut and rice.

Greek-Style Chicken with Yogurt Sauce

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup plain fat-free yogurt
• 1/3 cup shredded peeled cucumber
• 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 2 scallions, sliced
• 8 chicken tenders (about 3/4 lb.)
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cups hot cooked quick-cooking brown rice

Makes 4 Servings (1 plate per serving)

1. Combine the yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, half of the garlic, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper in a small bowl; set aside. Toss together lettuce, tomato, and scallions in a medium bowl; set aside.
2. Toss together chicken, the remaining garlic, oregano, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl.
3. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 2 minutes on each side.
4. Place 1/2 cup of the rice on each of 4 plates; top each serving with one-fourth of the lettuce mixture, 2 chicken tenders, and 1/4 cup of the yogurt sauce.

WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW in 20 Minutes Cookbook. Who says Mediterranean food can't be fast and fresh? This dish has 4 servings of vegetables and a protein with a homemade dressing and will fill you up. This salad is perfect to enjoy during the summer season when vegetables are in season and the weather is warm so you can enjoy a refreshing salad. It has nice flavors to it and has a nice crunch to it. 

Vietnamese Chicken Curry

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp. curry powder
• 1 tbsp. canola oil
• 1 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp. garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp. ginger, chopped
• 1 tbsp. lemon grass or lemon verbena leaves, chopped
• 1/4 tsp. chile flakes or sambal oelek chile paste
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 (16 oz.) can low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup broccoli florets, blanched
• 1 cup light coconut milk
• lime juice to taste
• 1 tbsp. cilantro, chopped
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• salt
• freshly ground black pepper

Makes 4 Servings

1. Cut chicken into 2-inch pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and curry powder.
2. Heat a large Dutch oven or deep sauté pan over medium heat. Add oil and chicken. Cook until chicken is slightly browned on all sides but still raw. Remove chicken  from pan and reserve on a plate.
3. Add onion to the sauté pan and cook until just soft (deglaze with water if necessary). Add garlic, ginger, lemon grass, and chile flakes; cook until aromatic.
4. Add carrots and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Season with lime juice; stir in cilantro.
5. Serve with brown rice.

WW POINTS VALUE: 11 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. I have come to really enjoy South East Asian cuisine. My dining companion does not like Asian cuisine but I do. I have never been to Vietnam or know much about Vietnamese cuisine but from what I have tried and cooked, it is delicious. Curry dishes are popular in Vietnamese cuisine. This dish is another ethnic comfort food to try and I think you will enjoy it. It's got protein and vegetables and the coconut milk makes this dish thick and enhances the flavor.  

Coconut Shrimp Curry

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quick-cooking barley or brown rice
• 1 (14 oz.) can unsweetened lite coconut milk
• 1 tbsp. Thai red curry paste
• 1 large red bell pepper, slivered
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 4 tsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1 1 /4 lbs. peeled & deveined large shrimp
• 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
• 2 tbsp. slivered fresh basil
• lime wedges for serving

Makes 4 Servings

1. In a medium saucepan, cook the barley or rice according to package directions. Drain away liquid left in the pan. Cover and keep warm.
2. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of the coconut milk and the curry paste. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the bell peppers and onion and cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes to soften the vegetables.
3. Stir in the soy sauce and remaining coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute to blend flavors.
4. Add the shrimp and cook, stirring often, until the shrimp turn pink and are just opaque in the center, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the lime juice.
5. Divide the barley or rice among 4 plates, top with the curry, and sprinkle with the basil. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing.

WW POINTS VALUE: 10 pts. with barley, 9 pts. without barley

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Super Quick Cookbook. This quick and easy Asian dish is tastier than takeout and both cheaper and better for you. This dish has a unique flavor to it with the coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce and lime juice. Don't worry if the dish looks like a hot mess but it's flavorful, spicy and delicious. Don't forget to use unsweetened lite coconut milk because the thick sweetened coconut milk is used to make pina coladas. If you're on Phase 1, serve the cooked shrimp over sautéed zucchini, bok choy or spinach.

Shrimp Saganaki with Feta & Dill

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 tsp/ extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14 1/2 oz.) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1/4 cup crumbled reduced-fat feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 cups cooked brown rice

Makes 4 Servings (1 cup shrimp & sauce 1/2 cup rice)

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook, stirring frequently, until golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in wine and garlic and simmer 1 minute. Add tomatoes and pepper flakes; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 3 minutes.
2. Add shrimp and simmer over medium-low heat, stirring often, until shrimp are just opaque in center, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in feta and dill and let stand until feta softens slightly, about 1 minute. Spoon 1/2 cup brown rice onto each of 4 plates; top rice evenly with shrimp and sauce.

WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. This is a different take on Mediterranean cuisine. Who knew that shrimp and brown rice would go well together with tomatoes and feta cheese? Serve this meal any night of the week and people will be satisfied and it will take you back to your favorite Greek island overlooking the Mediterranean Sea at sunset. Almost any white wine will do when cooking this dish. I also recommend using freshly diced tomatoes for an authentic Mediterranean flare.



Cuban-Style Black Beans and Rice

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup quick-cooking brown rice
• 2 (15 oz.) cans black beans, drained but not rinsed
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup drained petite diced tomatoes
• 1 1 /2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tbsp. lime juice
• 1/2 tsp. hot pepper sauce

Makes 4 Servings (1 cup bean mixture & 1/2 cup rice per serving)

 

1. Cook the rice according to the package directions, omitting the fat is desired; keep warm.
2. With a fork, coarsely mash 1 cup of the beans; set aside.
3. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic; cook, stirring, until the vegetables are softened, about 4 minutes. Add the whole and mashed beans, the tomatoes with their juice, the cumin, and oregano; cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and the vegetables are very tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the lime juice and pepper sauce, stirring to mix well. Serve over the rice.

WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW in 20 Minutes Cookbook. This dish makes a great meal or side dish alongside a Latin flavored protein. You have three servings of vegetables in this dish so you'll get your share of nutrients. Don't worry if this dish looks like a hot mess, it tastes great and it's full of flavor.

Flank Steak Stir-Fry with Ginger & Scallions

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup quick-cooking brown rice
• 3/4-lb. flank steak, trimmed and thinly sliced
• 1 tsp. cornstarch
• 4 tsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp. hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp. peanut oil
• 1 tbsp. finely grated peeled fresh ginger
• 1/2 large red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
• 1/2 large green bell pepper, cut into thin strips
• 5 scallions, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds

Makes 4 Servings (3/4 cup beef mixture & 1/4 cup rice  mixture per serving)

1. Cook rice according to package directions, omitting salt and fat.
2. Combine steak, cornstarch, and 2 teaspoons soy sauce in a medium bowl and toss to coat. Combine remaining 2 teaspoons soy sauce with hoisin in small bowl.
3. Heat oil in wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add beef and cook, stirring occasionally, just until lightly browned, about 45 seconds. Add ginger and cook 30 seconds. Stir in bell peppers and cook, stirring often, until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Add hoisin mixture, stirring, 30 seconds. Remove from heat; stir in scallions and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Divide beef mixture and rice among 4 plates.

WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. This is what I call gourmet Chinese food. I've said it once and I'll say it over  and over again: if you're thinking about ordering Chinese takeout, PUT DOWN THE PHONE!! You can make this elegant meal in 20 minutes or less and it will taste just as good as takeout. You can use any cut of beef (porterhouse, sirloin, skirt, etc.) and this meal will be delicious. I highly recommend seasoning the beef with freshly ground pepper as and minced garlic to enhance the flavor. You don't need salt because the soy sauce is already salty. Any kind of vegetable such as broccoli, snap peas, or shitake mushrooms will work just as well too.

Spicy BBQ Shrimp & Rice

Ingredients:

 

Rice:

• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 scallions, white and green parts thinly sliced and kept separate
• 1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 cup quick-cooking whole-grain brown rice

Shrimp:

• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp. paprika
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
• 4 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp. granular sugar substitute
• 2 tsp. hot pepper sauce
• 2 lbs. large shrimp, peeled & deveined

Makes 4 Servings

1. For the rice: In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add scallions whites and pepper; cook, stirring, until vegetables just begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add rice and stir to coat. Add water, cover, and cook rice according to package directions.
2. For the shrimp: While the rice is cooking, in a large skillet heat the oil over medium heat. Add paprika, garlic powder, and thyme; cook, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in scallions, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, sugar substitute, and hot pepper sauce; cook, 1 minute more. Add shrimp and toss to coat with sauce; cover and cook 2-3 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink. Remove from heat and keep warm.
3. To serve, divide rice among 4 plate, top with shrimp and sprinkle with scallion greens.

 

WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Taste of Summer Cookbook. This is an easy meal you can enjoy for lunch or dinner in warm weather and not feel guilty about eating BBQ. If you love BBQ and spice, this dish is for you. This dish packs heat and flavor. Don't worry if your dish looks messy when you're plating it. It may look like a hot mess but it's really delicious. 

Mandarin Stir-Fried Pork Tenderloin & Broccolli

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. Chinese rice wine
• 1 tsp. cornstarch
• 1 egg white, slightly beaten
• 12 oz. pork tenderloin, sliced 1/8-inch thick X 1-inch wide
• 1 tbsp. hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp. oyster sauce
• 3 tbsp. low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp. sesame oil
• 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil or canola oil
• 1 tbsp. garlic, chopped
• 1 tbsp. ginger, chopped
• 3 cups broccoli cut in florets, stems peeled and sliced
• 2 tsp. cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp. water
• 2 tbsp. scallions, chopped
• 2 cups brown rice, cooked
• salt
• freshly ground black pepper

Makes 4 Servings

1. Combine rice wine, cornstarch and egg white. Mix in 1 pinch salt and pepper. Add pork. Let sit for 20 minutes or overnight.
2. Combine hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, and sesame oil; set aside.
3. heat a wok or a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add olive oil, garlic and ginger. Stir until aromatic. Add pork and turn up the heat. Saute 1-2 minutes. Add broccoli and toss. Add sauce mixture and bring to a simmer; cover and cook until the broccoli mixture is al dente. Stir in cornstarch mixture. Bring to a simmer and stir in scallions.
4. Serve with brown rice.

WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. If you're thinking about ordering Chinese takeout, PUT DOWN THE PHONE! You can make this meal in the same amount of time you order it and it comes to your door. The key to cooking good Chinese food are three ingredients: scallions, ginger and garlic. Broccoli is a key ingredient in stir-fries. If you don't have broccoli on hand, use sugar snap peas or baby bok choy and it will taste just as good. Chinese food is also sweet and spicy and if you want to add extra spice to this dish, add 2 teaspoons of chile paste. The pork issucculent and juicy in this dish and it makes a great leftover for lunch the next day.

Lamb Porcupines

Ingredients:

• 3/4 lb. lean ground lamb
• 2 oz. crumbled reduced-fat feta cheese
• 1/2 cup whole fresh cilantro leaves or mint leaves
• 1/3 cup quick-cooking whole-grain rice
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp. dried marjoram
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1 (15 oz.) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 tbsp. part-skim ricotta cheese

Makes 4 Servings (2 meatballs each)

1. In a medium bowl, combine the lamb, feta, cilantro or mint, rice, egg, marjoram, salt, pepper and 1/4 cup water. Mix well. Shape into 8 golf ball-sized meatballs.
2. In a large skillet, heat the tomatoes over medium heat. Add the meatballs, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and the rice is tender.
3. Spoon 2 meatballs and some sauce onto each of the 4 plates and top each serving with 1 tablespoon ricotta.

WW POINTS VALUE: 9 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Super Quick and Easy Cookbook. These version of meatballs are called porcupines because the rice swells when the lamb is cooked. These meatballs originated from a Betty Crocker recipe made with beef and white rice. Every country has their own version of the meatball. This meatball is what I like to call Mediterranean meats Middle Eastern because it's lamb mixed with feta cheese and Greek and Turkish herbs. I was surprised and how they turned out. Most meatballs I've cooked in the past and to be broiled or cooked in the pan a long time. Not these meatballs! These meatballs were plump and juicy not to mention totally delicious. If you have access to fresh tomatoes, use them instead of canned tomatoes. There's nothing like cooked, fresh tomatoes. You can have these meatballs and tomatoes as leftovers the next day on French bread and have a meatball sub. Who says a meatball sub has to be Italian?

 



Sweet-and-Sour Jumbo Shrimp with Pineapple

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup quick-cooking brown rice
• 1 (8-ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve juice)
• 3 tbsp. rice wine vinegar
• 3 tbsp. ketchup
• 1 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp. cornstarch
• 2 tsp. granulated sugar
• 3 tsp. canola oil
• 1 1/2 lbs. jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 cup shredded carrot
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced

Makes 4 Servings

1. Cook rice according to package directions, omitting salt and fat.
2. Meanwhile, combine reserved pineapple juice, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, cornstarch, and sugar in medium bowl.
3. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook, turning once, until just opaque, 4-5 minutes; transfer to plate. Return skillet to heat and add remaining 1 teaspoon oil. Add bell pepper and carrot and stir-fry until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Add pineapple chunks and cook 1 minute. Add pineapple juice mixture and shrimp; bring to boil and cook until sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Divide shrimp and rice among 4 plates or bowls and sprinkle with scallions. 

WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts. (1 1/2 cups shrimp & 1/2 cup rice)

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. Are you a fan  of Chinese takeout? If so, this dish is for you. You can have healthy Chinese meals at home without ordering from your takeout menu. Plus, there is no MSG or any other mystery ingredients in this Chinese meal. This dish literally is sweet-and-sour and so colorful you'll forget it's healthy for you. This meal is also packed with flavor you'll want to eat it again and again. You can also use chicken, turkey, pork or tofu in this recipe and it will still be delicious. If you're thinking about ordering Chinese takeout, PUT DOWN THE PHONE and cook this. You  and your guests will be very happy, trust me. 

Spicy Szechuan Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup quick-cooking brown rice
• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 2 tsp. finely grated orange zest
• 1 tbsp. + 2 tsp. cornstarch
• 2 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/3 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tsp. honey
• 1 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tsp. canola oil
• 1 tbsp. finely grated peeled fresh ginger
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 bunch broccoli, cut into florets (3 cups)
• 2 carrots, thinly sliced on the bias

Makes 4 Servings

1. Cook rice according to package directions, omitting salt and fat.
2. Meanwhile, combine chicken, orange zest, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce in a large bowl and toss to coat. Combine orange juice, broth, honey sesame oil, pepper flakes, remaining 2 teaspoons cornstarch and remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce in a small bowl.
3. Heat 1 teaspoon canola oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add chicken and stir-fry until lightly browned, about 3 minutes; transfer to plate. Return skillet to heat and add remaining 1 teaspoon canola oil. Add ginger and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 15 seconds. Stir in broccoli and carrots and stir-fry until broccoli is bright green, about 2 minutes. Pour in orange juice mixture; bring to boil and cook until thickened, about 1 minute. Add chicken and cook until heated through, about 1 minute. Divide chicken mixture and rice among 4 plates.

WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts. (1 cup chicken mixture & 1/2 cup rice per serving)

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. Who doesn't love Chinese takeout once in a while? I love Chinese food because it's so flavorful and filling you never get hungry an hour later. Don't be intimidated if it doesn't look beautiful. This dish has bold flavors and will quickly fill you up. This dish is just as delicious without the rice but the rice helps soak up all the orange flavors. The combination of ginger, garlic, orange, honey and red pepper flakes give this dish the bold heat in its name. You can use, turkey, pork, or even duck as the protein in this dish and your dish will still be delicious. The next time you're craving Chinese, PUT DOWN  THE TAKEOUT MENU!!! Cook this classic dish in 30 minutes or less and you'll be very happy.



Red Beans and Rice

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup quick-cooking whole-grain brown rice
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 (15 oz.) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp. hot pepper sauce, or more to taste
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp. ground white pepper

Makes 4 (3/4-cup) Servings

1. Cook rice according to package directions. Remove from the heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent and beginning to brown, 3-5 minutes. Add rice, beans, thyme, garlic powder, hot pepper sauce, salt, black pepper and white pepper; stir to combine. Cook until heated through, about 2 minutes. Serve hot.

WW POINTS VALUE: 2 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Taste of Summer Cookbook. Red beans and rice is a traditional Louisiana side dish that packs heat and flavor. This was a totally different side dish for me because it was filling and packed with heat. This dish would go great with chicken, steak, pork or fish when you want to turn up the heat. Plus, this side dish will quickly fill you up. 

Tuna Sashimi with Daikon Salad & Brown Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 (3 1/2-oz.) bag quick-cooking brown rice
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1 small (14 oz.)  daikon radish, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch strips
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
• 2 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp. wasabi paste
• 1 pound fresh sushi-quality tuna, cut into long thin strips
• 4 tsp. crumbled toasted nori or nori crinkles

Makes 4 Servings

1. Cook brown rice according to package directions, using 1/8 teaspoon salt. Divide rice among 4 small bowls.
2. Meanwhile, combine daikon, scallions, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt in medium bowl and toss. Divide salad mixture among 4 plates.
3. Combine soy sauce, wasabi paste and remaining 1 tablespoon lime juice in small bowl. Divide soy mixture among 4 very small bowls and place 1 bowl on each plate to use as dipping sauce. Divide tuna among plates, sprinkle with nori, and serve immediately with rice.

WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts. (1/2 cup rice, 1/2 cup daikon salad, 2/3 cup tuna & 1 tbsp. sauce)

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier Than Takeout Cookbook. This was my first attempt at making gourmet Japanese at home. I know it looks like a hot mess but it is so delicious. I really loved this salad for dinner. It was totally different because the bold flavors of soy sauce, lime juice and wasabi paste give this dish a real kick. Even though the directions say to cut the sashimi tuna into long strips, I highly recommend cooking the tuna on high heat in a pan 1-2 minutes per side for that really juicy texture. If you can't find daikon radishes, use regular radishes instead and your salad will still be delicious. The nori is optional but it adds a nice touch to the dish. This salad is perfect for lunch or dinner and it will leave you happy. Iron Chef Morimoto will be very proud of you once you perfect this dish, I promise.

 



South Beach Meat Loaf with Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 pound extra-lean ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground turkey breast
• 1 cup chunky salsa
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice

Makes 6 Servings

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F.
2. Heat the oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the beef, turkey, salsa, egg, salt, pepper and garlic. Stir in the vegetables and rice. Place the mixture in a round baking dish and pat into an oblong loaf.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted in the center registers 160 F and the meat is no longer pink.

WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Cookbook. Cooler weather is here and it's time to turn on the oven and make some delicious comfort food. Meatloaf is delicious comfort food when it's done right. I was never crazy about meatloaf when I was younger because it was dry. I was cleaning out the refrigerator while watching my beloved Patriots play the New York Jets (the Pats won in overtime) and it looked so good I had to try it. My mom and I LOVED this meatloaf. I used 1 pound of ground turkey breast instead of 1/2 ground beef and 1/2 ground turkey for a leaner taste. I made 6 individual meatloaves and they were delicious! I highly recommend making 6 individual meatloaves so everyone can have their own little meatloaf in the same portion. This meatloaf was also very colorful and filling with the bell peppers, onions and salsa. You won't get hungry later on because the meatloaf is filled with lean protein and lots of vegetables. Also, whatever individual meatloaves you don't eat, just wrap them in the freezer and save them for dinner another time. This meatloaf was a standout because it had all the flavors of Mexico in it with bell peppers, onions, garlic and Pico de Gallo salsa. Bobby Flay would be impressed with this meatloaf, I guarantee. Iron Chef Flay, I'm not giving up to challenging to to a tailgating Throwdown!!