Showing posts with label cilantro. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cilantro. Show all posts

Sunday, May 30, 2021

Tuna Seviche

 Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. sushi-grade tuna, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 2/3 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 large tomato, seeded & chopped
  • 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2-1 jalapeno pepper, seeded & minced
  • grated zest of 1/2 orange
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • pinch freshly ground black pepper
Makes 4 Servings (1/2 cup per serving)

  1. Mix together tuna and lime juice in a large glass bowl. Cover and refrigerate, stirring several times, until tuna is opaque, about 1 hour. Drain tuna and transfer to serving bowl; discard marinade. 
  2. Add all remaining ingredients to tuna; toss to mix well. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 3 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW New Complete Cookbook. Do not be intimidated by sashimi or sushi-grade tuna. It is melt-in-your-mouth delicious when it's done right. Even though the recipe calls to marinate in lime juice and to add the remaining ingredients to the tuna, I HIGHLY recommend searing both sides of the tuna to add more texture to the tuna. Grilled sashimi tuna is so delicious it literally melts in your mouth. I like to think of it as the filet mignon of the ocean it's that good. The variety of vegetables add flavor and zing to this dish. One bite of this treat and you will be eating this as an appetizer or a light lunch on a regular basis. 

Friday, April 9, 2021

Ginger-Lime Chicken

 Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp. lime juice
  • 2 tsp. lime zest
  • 2 tbsp. ginger root, finely minced or grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp. honey
  • 1 tbsp. chili oil or other hot oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped and divided
  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp. scallions, finely minced
Makes 4 Servings (1 chicken breast & 1/3 cup sauce per serving)

  1. In a large non-reactive bowl, combine soy sauce, lime juice, lime zest, ginger, garlic, honey, oil and 2 tablespoons cilantro; mix well. Remove and reserve 2 tablespoons of the marinade. Add chicken to bowl, tossing to make sure each piece is coated; refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours.
  2. Preheat broiler to high. Remove chicken from marinade and place in a baking dish; discard marinade. Broil chicken, 4 to 6 minutes; flip and brush chicken with reserved marinade. Return chicken to oven and broil until chicken is cooked through, about 4 to 6 minutes more.
  3. To serve, sprinkle chicken with scallions, remaining 2 tablespoons cilantro and any sauce accumulated in baking dish. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears on www.weightwatchers.com. This is  a new succulent take on grilled or broiled chicken. Citrus and spices are used in this Caribbean recipe. The combination of ginger, lime and garlic make this chicken heavenly delicious. You can use this marinade on chicken, pork, turkey, fish and vegetables. You can serve grilled vegetables or pineapple with this chicken for a filling and flavorful meal. 

Photo of Ginger-lime chicken by WW

Monday, November 9, 2020

Spiced Turkey & Sweet Potato Bowl

 Ingredients:

  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled & cubed
  • 1 small yellow onion, sliced
  • 2 small radishes, sliced
  • 2 tbsp. coconut oil, divided
  • 1/2 tsp. sea salt, divided
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided
  • 1/4 tsp. paprika
  • 1 lb. lean ground turkey
  • 1 tsp. minced garlic
  • 1/2 tsp. onion powder
  • 1 cup packed chopped kale
  • 1 small zucchini, diced
For the Dressing:

  • 1 medium avocado, pitted and peeled
  • 1/4 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 1 /2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 tsp. sea salt
  • 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
Makes 4 Servings

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
  2. Spread out the sweet potato, onion, and radishes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Melt 1 tablespoon of the coconut oil and drizzle it over the vegetables. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper and the paprika.
  3. Roast for 25 minutes, turning the potatoes over once half-way through the roasting. 
  4. While the potatoes are cooking, heat the remaining  coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, remaining salt and pepper, garlic, and onion powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Stir in the kale and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. 
  5. Divide up the turkey evenly among 4 bowls. Top with equal amounts of roasted sweet potatoes and onions, zucchini, and kale. 
  6. To make the dressing, combine all the dressing ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth, about 1 minute. Drizzle the dressing over the bowl ingredients and serve. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 12 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in The New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. If you are craving a filling bowl, eat this and you will be satisfied. Don't worry if it looks like a mess. This bowl is quite flavorful and tasty. The combination of ground turkey and vegetables is quite delicious. The dressing is quite zesty and tasty on top. This bowl makes a filling lunch or dinner any night of the week. 

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Cilantro-Lime Turkey Burgers

 Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. lean ground turkey
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • juice of half a lime
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp. sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 8 leaves butter lettuce
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 4 tomato slices, 1/4-inch thick
Makes 4 Servings (1 burger per serving)

  1. Place the ground turkey, onion, cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl and mix by hand until combined. Form into 4 patties. 
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the burgers and cook for 4-5  minutes on each side until cooked through, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the patties reaches 165 F. 
  3. Transfer the burgers to a plate and let them rest. Serve them on butter lettuce wraps topped with red onion and tomato. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts.

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet Book. Who doesn't love eating a juicy burger once in a while? The people at South Beach Diet know how to make delicious burgers. Turkey burgers are so succulent and juicy you won't miss the red meat/beef. The combination of lime juice and cilantro is quite delicious mixed in with ground turkey making the burgers. If you don't have garlic powder on hand, minced garlic will work just as well. 

cilantro lime turkey burger on a lettuce bun
1

Monday, July 20, 2020

Mexican Breakfast Bake

Ingredients:
  • 1/2 lb. chorizo sausage
  • 1/4 cup diced onions
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup sliced white mushrooms
  • 2 tbsp. minced garlic
  • 2 cups packed chopped baby kale
  • 12 eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Makes 8 Servings (1 piece per serving)
  1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Lightly coat with butter a 9 x13-inch baking dish and set it aside. 
  2. Heat the sausage in a large saute pan over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, until it is cooked through. 
  3. Remove the sausage, reserving the grease in the pan. Add the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the mushrooms are browned. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the kale and and stir until wilted. Remove the pan from the heat and set it aside for 5 minutes to cool slightly. 
  4. Whisk together eggs, milk, and salt and pepper to taste in a large bowl. Add to the bowl the cooled vegetable and sausage mixture, half the cheddar, and half the Colby Jack. Stir to combine.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese. 
  6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the eggs are set and the cheese is bubbling. Cut into 8 pieces. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 10 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. This dish is both filling and flavorful. Chorizo sausage combined with eggs, vegetables and cheese is absolutely delicious. I highly recommend serving this dish at a brunch it's that good. 

Sunday, May 31, 2020

Cilantro-Cumin Marinade

Ingredients:
  • 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened orange juice
  • 1 tbsp. water
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 1/2 tbsp. cilantro, minced
  • 2 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 small uncooked onion, chopped
Makes 8 Servings
  1. Puree ingredients in blender until smooth. 
  2. Place protein of your choice in a dish and pour marinade over it. Marinate no more than 20 minutes, turning at least once. Spoon leftover marinade (boiled for 3-5 minutes to destroy bacteria) over cooked fish, if desired. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 1 pt. 

Note: This recipe appears on www.weightwatchers.com. This Latin-style marinade is aromatic and is great for any kind of protein such as fish, pork, chicken and steak. This marinade adds sweetness and heat to your meal and leaves a great aster taste in your mouth. 

Thursday, April 30, 2020

Beef Burrito Bowls

Ingredients:
Beef:
  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • 2 1/2 tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 1 tsp. minced garlic
  • 1/4 tsp. sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
For the Bowls:
  • 2 tsp. avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 cups cauliflower rice (1 medium head, grated or finely chopped)
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, sliced
Makes 4 Servings
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until no longer pink. 
  2. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is fully browned, about 5 minutes. 
  3. In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat and add the cauliflower rice. Cook until tender about 5 minutes. 
  4. Assemble 4 bowls with equally distributed cauliflower rice and beef, adding the red onion, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, salsa, avocado, and cilantro. Serve with the lime slices. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 11 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. Burrito bowls may be messy but they are delicious. You don't have to go to a Mexican fast food joint to get your cravings for Mexican food. You can make these guilty pleasures at home for a fraction of the price. These bowls use cauliflower rice in place of real rice. You can also use ground chicken, turkey or pork in this dish and the bowls will be delicious. The bowl are also loaded with vegetables which will fil lyou up. 



Monday, April 20, 2020

Chicken Fajita Bowl

Ingredients:
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • 1/4 cup sliced onions
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tbsp. tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp. chipotle chili powder
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed & drained
  • 1 1/2 cup cooked cauliflower rice
  • 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tbsp. chopped cilantro
Makes 4 Servings (1 bowl per serving)
  1.  Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. 
  2. Pat the chicken dry. Dice into 1/2-inch pieces and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Place it in the hot skillet and brown it for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside, reserving the grease in the pan. 
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent. 
  4. Whisk together tomato paste, lime juice, chipotle chili powder, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste into small bowl. 
  5. Add this mixture along with the cooked chicken and the black beans to the veggies in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce is slightly thickened. 
  6. Divide cauliflower rice into 4 bowls; then top with mixture from the pan. Garnish with the cheese and cilantro. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. Don't worry if this dish looks like a mess. It's actually quite filling and delicious. You can enjoy fajitas without the tortilla. The chicken is seasoned with salt, freshly ground pepper and paprika and it's so succulent and juicy. The sautéed vegetables go great with the chicken and the cauliflower rice. Cauliflower rice is just shredded cauliflower and you'll never know the difference between regular rice and cauliflower rice. The 'tomato sauce' goes very well in this dish too. This fajita bowl will quickly become a favorite at your kitchen table.

Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Mini Taco Salads with Cilantro-Lime Yogurt

Ingredients:
  • 12 slices Colby Jack cheese
  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 small onion, chopped
  • 1 lb. ground turkey breast
  • 1/2 cup packed spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp. onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp. sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 24 cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
  • 1 avocado, pitted and diced
  • 3/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Makes 6 Servings (2 mini taco salads per serving)
  1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Line two 9 x 13-inch baking sheets with parchment paper. 
  2. Evenly place 6 cheese slices on each baking sheet. Ensure adequate spacing between each cheese slice (approximately 2 inches) to avoid slices melting together. 
  3. Bake for 5-6 minutes, or until the edges of the cheese slices are golden brown and bubbling. Watch the cheese closely to avoid overcooking. 
  4. Remove the cheese slices from the oven, allowing them to cool slightly (30-60 seconds). Blot any excess oil from the cheese slices from the paper towel, and allow the slices to cool for 1-2 minutes longer. 
  5. Remove a chees slice from the baking sheet with a spatula and mold it into the first of 12 cups of a muffin tin to make a small, bowl-shaped cheese shell. Use the back end of a spoon to help shape the cheese into a cup, if necessary. 
  6. Repeat with the remaining cheese slices and let them cool completely in the muffin tin while you make the taco meat filling. 
  7.  Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. 
  8. Add the avocado oil to the skillet. 
  9. Add the garlic and onion and saute for 2-3 minutes. 
  10. Place the ground turkey in the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-7 minutes, or until the turkey is no longer pink in color. 
  11. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes. 
  12. Mix together onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. 
  13. Add the seasoning mixture to the skillet along with 1 tablespoon of water.
  14.  Stir the turkey mixture until the seasoning is well combined and cook for another minute before removing it from the heat.
  15. Add 1/4 cup of the cooked turkey mixture to each of the 12 cheese shells. Garnish the cups with the cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro and serve with Cilantro-Lime Yogurt Dip.
WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. Don't be intimidated by the steps in this recipe. These taco salads are easy to make, they just require patience. These mini salads pack a flavorful punch with the spices and vegetables. The yogurt dip gives these salads a nice, tangy after taste to these treats. 

Cilantro-Lime Yogurt Dip

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
  • 1-2 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
Makes 1 Cup (2 tbsp. per serving)

Combine the yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until they are well mixed. 

WW POINTS VALUE: 1 pt. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. This yogurt dip is tangy and delicious and it goes great with any kind of Mexican cuisine. The combination of cilantro and lime awakens your taste buds. 

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Sticky Sesame Chicken

Ingredients:
For the chicken:
  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsp. tapioca flour
  • 2 tbsp. sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 4 lime wedges
For the Marinade:
  • 1/4 cup coconut aminos
  • 1 tsp. granular brown sugar substitute
  • 1 tbsp. fresh minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp. freshly minced ginger
  • 2 tsp. sesame oil
  • 3 tbsp. rice wine vinegar
Makes 4 Servings
  1. Pat the chicken dry. Dice into 1/2-inch pieces and season it with salt and pepper to taste. 
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, sugar substitute, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and sat and pepper to taste. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and transfer to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to marinate. 
  3. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large sauté pan.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip away. Reserve the marinade. place the chicken in the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. 
  5. Add the tapioca flour to the marinade and whisk to combine. Add the marinade to the pan with the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens. 
  6. Evenly divide among 4 bowls and serve the chicken garnished with sesame seeds, cilantro and lime wedges. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. If you're thinking about ordering takeout, put down the phone and make this dish instead. There is nothing like succulent, juicy chicken cooked with ginger, garlic and lime for a different taste. Coconut aminos is a soy sauce substitute that is made from fermented coconut palm sap so it is soy, wheat and gluten free. You can substitute tamari or soy sauce for the coconut aminos and the dish will still be delicious. You can store this chicken dish in an airtight container for up to 4 days and it will still be good. 
sesame chicken recipe

Thursday, January 23, 2020

Korean-Style Sweet-and-Spicy Chicken Rolls

Ingredients:
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 2 tsp. Chinese-style hot mustard
  • 3/4 cup whole wheat panko bread crumbs
  • 2 tbsp. sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 1 /2 lbs. chicken tenders
  • 1/4 cup sake
  • 3 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tsp. honey
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp. hot chili oil
  • 8 large green leaf lettuce leaves
Makes 4 Servings (2 rolls per serving)
  1. Preheat the oven to 425 F. Spray large rimmed baking sheet with nonstick spray. 
  2. Whisk together egg whites and mustard in a pie plate until frothy. Combine panko, sesame seeds and cilantro on a sheet of wax paper. Dip chicken tenders, one at a time, into egg white mixture; then into panko mixture, pressing to adhere. Place chicken in single layer on baking sheet; lightly spray with nonstick spray. Bake until golden and cooked through, 18-20 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, combine sake, soy sauce, honey, garlic and chili oil in a small bowl. Place lettuce leaves on work surface and top each one with one eighth of chicken. Sprinkle each portion with about 1 tablespoon sauce and roll up lettuce to enclose chicken. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 9 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. Asian takeout is delicious when it's done right. If you love chicken tenders and Asian food, these treats are definitely for you. These chicken tenders are succulent, juicy and flavorful. Baked chicken tenders are better than fried chicken tenders. The sauce is spicy and flavorful and it goes great with these chicken tenders. 

Wednesday, January 22, 2020

Mushroom and Goat Cheese Quesadilas

Ingredients:
  • 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small Vidalia onion or other sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
  • 1 (10 oz.) package cremini mushrooms
  • 1 (3 1/2 oz.) package sliced shiitake mushrooms
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup crumbled reduced-fat goat cheese
  • 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 4 (7-inch) whole wheat flour tortillas
  • 1/2 cup fat-free salsa
Makes 4 Servings (1quesadilla and 2 tablespoons salsa per serving)
  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeno and cook, stirring frequently, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add mushrooms, salt  and black pepper; cook, stirring, until mushrooms are softened, 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro. 
  2. Meanwhile, preheat broiler and spray large baking sheet with nonstick spray. Combine goat cheese and cream cheese in a small bowl. 
  3. Spread 1 tablespoon cheese mixture onto each tortilla. Spoon one-fourth of mushroom mixture onto bottom half of each tortilla; fold top over filling. Place quesadillas on baking sheet. Broil until tops are browned, 1-2 minutes. Flip over and cook until browned and cheese is melted, 1-2 minutes. Serve with salsa. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier that Takeout Cookbook. If you're craving fast food or Mexican food, put down the phone and put down the car keys. You can make these delicious treats at home in 30 minutes or less. These quesadillas are very filling with the vegetables and cheeses. If you don't have cream cheese available, use shredded Mexican cheese and the quesadillas will still be delicious. I also highly recommend adding a touch of ground cumin to these quesadillas for more flavor. 

Monday, December 2, 2019

White Chipotle Chicken Chili

Ingredients:
  • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 medium onions, chopped
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 1/2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 tbsp. chipotle chili powder or chili seasoning
  • 4 tsp. ground cumin
  • pinch salt
  • 3 (19 oz.) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups lower-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup fat-free half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Makes 8 Servings (1 1/2 cups per serving)
  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-low heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to soften, 4-5 minutes. 
  2. Push the onions to one side of the pan, add the chicken, and sprinkle with the chipotle chile powder, cumin, and salt to taste. Cook, stirring, until most of the chicken is cooked through, about 8 minutes. 
  3. Meanwhile, in a food processor, combine the remaining beans and remaining 1 cup broth. Process to a smooth puree. 
  4. Stir the bean puree and half-and-half into the soup. Divide the soup among 4 bowls and serve hot sprinkled with chees and cilantro. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 9 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Super Quick Cookbook. Chili is such a wonderful comfort food and this chili is a nice comforting chili. This is a different kind of chili because it uses chicken and white beans instead of the traditional beef and red beans. This chili can be frozen after its made and be enjoyed again when it is defrosted. 

Monday, August 26, 2019

Chicken Tagine

Ingredients:
  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 lb. boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 (10 oz.) package frozen whole okra
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp. minced peeled fresh ginger
  • 1/4 tsp. saffron threads, lightly crushed
  • 3/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 12 pimiento-stuffed olives, halved
  • 3 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
Makes 4 Servings (1 cup per serving)
  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate. 
  2.  Add the okra, onion, garlic, ginger, and saffron to the skillet; cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion starts to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the broth and lemon juice; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, stir in the chicken, and simmer; covered, until the chicken is cooked through, about 7 minutes. Uncover and cook until the liquid is slightly reduced, about 3 minutes longer. Remove the skillet from the heat; stir in the olives, cilantro, salt, and pepper. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Ultimate Chicken Cookbook. This version of tagine is light and filling. A tagine is a comfort food that hails from Morocco and is typically prepared with meat or poultry and vegetables, garlic, and olives. Seasonings can include saffron, ginger, paprika, or cilantro. I highly recommend serving a side of couscous with the tagine for an additional 3 points a serving and a more filling dish. 

Sunday, August 4, 2019

Smoky Mexican Seafood Cocktial

Ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 cups tomato juice cocktail, chilled
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp. tomato paste
  • 1-2 tsp. bottled chipotle in adobo sauce or bottled hot pepper sauce
  • 2 (6 1/2-oz.) cans crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed, or 12 oz. shrimp with tailed cooked, peeled and deveined, or 6 oz. of each
  • 1 medium avocado, halved, pitted, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped
  • 8 lime wedges (optional)
  • fresh cilantro (optional)
Makes 8 Servings 
  1. In a medium bowl, combine tomato juice cocktail, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, tomato paste (if using), and chipotle pepper sauce.
  2. Add the crabmeat or shrimp, avocado, and cucumber. Toss gently to coat. Divide mixture among eight martini glasses. Top with shrimp (if using). Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro if desired. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 3 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Diet Cookbook. This is what I call a cocktail kicked up a notch. This cocktail is a decorative appetizer that is perfect to serve at an elegant dinner. This cocktail is succulent, flavorful and leaves a nice aftertaste in your mouth. The shrimp goes so well with the avocado, cucumber and tomato juice. If you don't have a chipotle in adobo sauce, use a jalapeno pepper and minced garlic in the recipe and puree it with the tomato juice, lime juice, red onion and the cocktail will still be delicious. 

Sunday, July 14, 2019

Chicken Banh Mi Sandwiches

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 tbsp. pickled sliced jalapeno peppers, drained
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2 tsp. rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
  • 1 lb. ground skinless chicken breast
  • 2 scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup fat-free mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp. Sriracha or other chili sauce
  • 1 (12 oz.) whole wheat baguette
Makes 4 Servings (1 sandwich per serving)
  1.  Combine carrots, jalapeno peppers, cilantro, vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl. 
  2. Stir together chicken, scallions, soy sauce, and garlic in medium bowl, mixing just until combined. With damp hands, shape mixture into 8 (1/2-inch-thick) patties. 
  3. Spray large skillet with nonstick spray and set over medium-high heat. Add patties and cook until browned and instant-read thermometer inserted in side of patties registers 165 F, 6-7 minutes per side.
  4. Stir together mayonnaise and Sriracha in a small bowl. Split baguette without completely cutting through. Remove small amount of soft center from baguette and discard, or save for bread crumbs. Cut into 4 equal pieces. Spread 2 tablespoons mayonnaise mixture on cut-side of pieces. Stuff each with 2 patties and top with 1/4 cup carrot mixture. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 10 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. Bahn Mi is one of the signature cuisines of Vietnam. Bahn Mi is a type of baguette which is often split lengthwise and filled with various savory ingredients as a sandwich and is usually served as a meal. This sandwich is different because of the spicy flavors and filling condiments. The Bahn Mi is quite filling and delicious and will become a favorite in your house. I think this sandwich is better than what you would order at a fast food joint and you  can make it and eat it in 30 minutes or less. 

Monday, June 17, 2019

Tomatillo Enchilladas with Grilled Chicken

Ingredients:
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1/8 tsp. salt
  • 2 lb. tomatillos. husks removed, fruits rinsed and coarsely chopped
  • 2 tbsp. water
  • 3/4 lb. cooked grilled chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup fresh or thawed frozen corn kernels
  • 1 1/2 cups (6 oz.) shredded fat-free pepper Jack cheese
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
  • 12 (6-inch) corn tortillas, warmed
Makes 6 Servings (2 enchiladas per serving)
  1.  Preheat oven to 450 F. Spray large skillet with nonstick spray and set over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeno and cook, stirring, until vegetables soften, 2-3 minutes. Stir in cumin and salt. Add tomatillos and water. Bring to boil; lower heat and simmer, uncovered, 7-8 minutes. 
  2. Meanwhile, stir together chicken, corn, and 1 cup Jack cheese in large bowl. 
  3. Remove tomatillo sauce from heat and stir in cilantro. In two batches, transfer sauce to blender and puree, starting on low speed and holding blender lid down with folded kitchen towel. Stir 1 cup of sauce into chicken mixture; return remaining sauce to skillet. 
  4. Spread 1 cup tomatillo sauce in bottom of 9 X 13-inch baking dish. Dip 1 tortilla at a time in remaining sauce, place on cutting board, and fill with 1/3 cup chicken mixture. Roll up and place seam side down in dish. Repeat with  remaining tortillas and chicken mixture. Spoon remaining sauce over enchiladas; sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Cover with foil and bake until heated through, 12-15 minutes. Remove foil, turn on broiler and broil enchiladas until cheese is browned, about 1 minute. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. These treats are certainly a taste of Mexico. These enchiladas are both filling and flavorful. If you don't have corn on hand, substitute, sliced bell peppers and the enchiladas will be just as delicious. I highly recommend adding a tablespoon of fat-free sour cream to give these enchiladas a kick of zing. Even though 2 enchiladas make a serving, 1 enchilada will be filling enough. 

Saturday, June 8, 2019

Argentinian Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri Salsa

Ingredients:
  • 2 lb. flank steak
  • 1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh oregano
  • 1 tbsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp. smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp. granulated brown sugar
  • salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 recipe Chimichurri Salsa
  1. Season meat with salt and pepper; let sit for 10 minutes. Score both sides of steak in a diamond pattern by making shallow cuts at 1-inch intervals; set aside.
  2.  Combine vinegar, garlic, oregano, black pepper, paprika, and brown sugar. Rub with marinade and let sit for 1 hour to overnight in the refrigerator. 
  3. Remove the steak from the marinade (discard the marinade). 
  4. For a charcoal grill, place meat on the rack of and uncovered grill directly over medium coals. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. For a gas grill, preheat grill. Reduce heat to medium. Place meat on grill rack over heat. Cover and grill as above.
  5. Transfer grilled meat to a cutting board. Cover and let stand for 10 minutes. To serve, slice very thinly across the grain. Serve with chimichurri salsa.
Chimichurri Salsa:
  • 1 cup fresh Italian parsley, packed
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, packed
  • 1 tbsp. fresh oregano leaves
  • 2 tbsp. shallots, minced
  • 3 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 3/4 tsp. dried crushed red pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
  • salt 
  • freshly ground black pepper
  1. Finely chop parsley, cilantro, and oregano leaves. Place in a bowl and add remaining ingredients. Mix well.
  2. Let sit for at least 2 hours before serving.
WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. This dish is better than what you would order in a steak house or at a nice restaurant. This dish is said to represent the taste of wine country. Chimichurri salsa is an uncooked sauce that hails from Argentina. This sauce is used in cooking and is made of chopped parsley, oregano, minced garlic, olive oil and red wine vinegar. Chimichurri may be brushed, basted, or spooned onto meat as it cooks, or onto the cooked surface of meat as it rests. The steak is absolutely delicious and the chimichurri salsa is delicious. The salsa goes great with potatoes and grilled vegetables as well. If you a re looking for a wine to pair with this dish, a red wine such as syrah, merlot or cabernet from Pursued by Bear Wine. 

Wednesday, February 27, 2019

Summer Rolls with Crab and Mango

Ingredients:
  • 2 1/2 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
  • 2 tsp. honey
  • 1 tsp. chili-garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
  • 8 (6-inch) round rice paper wrappers
  • 4 large Boston lettuce leaves, each cut lengthwise in half
  • 1 small mango, peeled, pitted, and cut lengthwise into strips
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 2 cups bean sprouts
  • 4 imitation crab sticks (6 oz.), each cut lengthwise in half
  • 16 sprigs fresh cilantro
Makes 4 Servings (2 rolls and 1 1/2 tbsp. sauce per serving)
  1. To make dipping sauce, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, honey, chili paste, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
  2. To assemble rolls, working one at a time, dip rice paper wrappers in a bowl or warm water; let stand jus until soft, about 30 seconds. Place on clean kitchen towel. Place 1 lettuce piece in center of each wrapper. Top lettuce with one eighth of mango, bell pepper, and bean sprouts. Top each with a piece of crab stick and 2 cilantro sprigs. Fold in sides and roll up to enclose filling. Press gently to seal. Cut each roll in half on diagonal. Serve with dipping sauce. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Tastier than Takeout Cookbook. I don't eat Asian food often but when I make it at home, it's actually quite filling and tasty. The combination of crab, mango and vegetables is deliciously filling. Serve these as an appetizer and it will feel like a light lunch. When you handle the rice papers wrappers, always follow the directions. They can get sticky VERY fast and it can be challenging to wrap those around the filling.