Showing posts with label parsley. Show all posts
Showing posts with label parsley. Show all posts

Thursday, December 30, 2021

Chicken Lasagna Cups

Ingredients:

  • 6 chicken cutlets (thin cut)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided
  • 1 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
  • ¼ cup ricotta cheese
  • ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ Tbsp. Italian Seasoning
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper
  • ½ Tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
Makes 6 Servings (2 cups per serving)

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Place chicken cutlets on a cutting board. Using the smooth side of a mallet, pound cutlets to about ¼ inch thick.
  3. Cut each chicken cutlet in half and lay them into the muffin tin cups, overlapping the ends to form bowls.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, ½ of the mozzarella, garlic, Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper.
  5. Using a spoon, place about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into each muffin cup.
  6. Top each muffin cup with 2 teaspoons of marinara sauce.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of each muffin cup equally.
  8. Bake for 25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked and the cheese is bubbly. Remove the lasagna cups from the muffin tin and place on a plate.
  9. Garnish each lasagna cup with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm.
WW POINTS VALUE: ?

Note: This recipe appears on www.palm.southbeachdiet.com/recipes. You can have your lasagna and eat it too when it is properly done. Enjoying lasagna on a low-carb diet can feel like a dream but it is possible. These lasanga cups use chicken cups in place of the pasta and it's quite delicious and filling. If you don't have marinara sauce, any homemade tomato sucae, such as puttanesca sauce, will work just as well. Also, cottage cheese works just as well in place of the ricotta cheese. 
chicken lasagna

Monday, April 26, 2021

Sage and Rosemary Pork

 Ingredients:

Filling:

  • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 1 /2 tbsp. chopped fresh sage or thyme leaves
  • 1 tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
Pork Loin:

  • 1 boneless center loin pork roast (about 2 lbs.)
  • 3/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • fresh sage leaves, for garnish
  • rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Makes 6 Servings

To make the filling: In a small bowl, combine the parsley, sage or thyme. rosemary, garlic, oil, mustard, salt and pepper.

To make the pork loin:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425 F.
  2. Butterfly the pork loin. Sprinkle the top side of the butterflied loin with half of the salt and pepper. Spread the filling evenly across the loin, leaving  a 1/2" border along the edge where you made the first cut. 
  3. Beginning at the opposite edge, roll the loin up to wrap the filling. Using kitchen twine, tie the loin every 1 1/2" to hold its shape. 
  4. Rub the loin with the oil and sprinkle with the remaining salt and pepper. Place the loin in a small roasting pan and  position on the center rack of the oven. Roast for 45 minutes, or until a thermometer  inserted in the center registers 155 F and the juices run clear. Let stand for 10 minutes before carving. To prevent slices from unrolling, skewer the roast every 1/4" with wooden picks along the edge where the roll ends. Slice crosswise between the wooden picks and ties. Remove the kitchen twine before serving. Garnish with the sage leaves and rosemary sprigs. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Cookbook. Roasted pork is so succulent and juicy when it's done right. Don't be intimidated by this recipe. It's actually quite easy to make. The combination of Dijon mustard, herbs and garlic is so delicious on roasted pork. This roasted pork goes very well with roasted vegetables such as potatoes, butternut squash, tomatoes, asparagus, etc. for a more filling and complete meal. 

Friday, January 29, 2021

Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe

 Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1/2 lb. ground pork
  • 1/3 cup chopped onion
  • 2 Tbsp. minced garlic
  • 3 Tbsp. tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp. dried rosemary
  • 1 tsp. dried oregano
  • 1 tsp. thyme
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley, divided
  • 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 1 cup chopped arugula
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Makes 8 Servings

  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 

  2. 2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Set aside.

  3. 3. In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, onion, garlic, tomato paste, almond flour, eggs, rosemary, oregano, thyme and half of the parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste and mix until well combined.

  4. 4.Spread the beef mixture out on the prepared baking sheet to make a large rectangle, about 1/2-inch thick.
  5. 5.Sprinkle the rectangle evenly with half of the mozzarella, roasted red peppers, arugula and remaining mozzarella, leaving a 1-inch border on the sides.
  6. 6. Using the parchment paper as a guide, roll meatloaf into a cylinder. Press seam and sides to seal.
  7. 7. Bake 45 to 55 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
  8. 8. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before cutting it into 8 slices.
WW POINTS VALUE: ? 

Note: This recipe appears on palm.southbeachdiet.com/recipes. Meatloaf is a wonderful comfort food when it's done right. This meatloaf has flavors of Italy and yet it's low in carbohydrates. This meatloaf is also filled with colorful vegetables which will fill you up. You can use any kind of ground meat such as pork, beef, chicken, turkey or veal and this meatloaf will still be delicious. This low-carb meatloaf recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for three to four days. To freeze it, place individual slices on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, they can be stored together in a large freezer-safe bag.
meatloaf recipe

Monday, November 9, 2020

'Fried' Fish with Potato Sticks

 Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 lbs. red potatoes, scrubbed
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 2 tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 4 (5 oz.) fish fillets
  • 4 lemon wedges
Makes 4 Servings (1 fish fillet & 1/4 of potatoes per serving)

  1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Spray 2 baking sheets with nonstick spray. 
  2. Cut potatoes into 1/2 x 2-inch stick; rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Spread in single layer on one of prepared baking sheets; spray with nonstick spray. Bake until potatoes until golden brown and crispy, about 30 minutes. Immediately sprinkles with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. 
  3. Meanwhile, lightly beat egg in pie plate. Mix together cornmeal, parsley, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and remaining 1/4 teaspoon of pepper on a sheet of wax paper. Dip fish, one fillet at a time, in egg, then coat with cornmeal mixture, pressing so it adheres.
  4. Place fish on remaining prepared baking sheet; lightly spray with nonstick spray. Bake until golden brown and just opaque in the center, about 12 minutes. Serve with potato sticks and lemon wedges. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW New Complete Cookbook. Fish and chips is a wonderful comfort meal when it's done right. The yellow cornmeal actually goes well on the fish with the parsley and the lemon wedges. The potatoes are also quite delicious with the fish as well. You can use any white fish fillet in this dish and the dish will be elegantly tasty. Don't forget to add your choice of vegetables to completely fill out your meal. 

Friday, October 30, 2020

Creamy Cauliflower & Chicken

 Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp. butter
  • 1/4 cup diced onion
  • 1 tsp. minced garlic
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp. celery seeds
  • 1/4 cup canned white beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 tbsp. chopped parsley
Makes 4 Servings

  1. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large saucepan. 
  2. Pat the chicken dry. Dice it into 1/2-inch pieces and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Add the chicken to the hot pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, until cooked through. 
  3. Remove the chicken and set aside, reserving the grease in the pan. 
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to melt.
  5. Add the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. 
  6. Add the cauliflower rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat and simmer for 4-5  minutes, until soft. 
  7. Transfer the cauliflower mixture to a food processor. Add the Parmesan, celery seeds, and salt and pepper to taste. Process for 1-2 minutes, until completely smooth. 
  8. Return the mixture to the pan over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken and white beans and toss to coat. Heat for 2-3 minutes, until the chicken and beans are warmed. 
  9. Divide mixture into 4 portions and serve garnished with parsley. 
WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. This dish is a healthy alternative on a traditional chicken alfredo dish. The creamy 'sauce' is made up of chicken broth, cauliflower rice, garlic, butter, onion, and Parmesan cheese pureed in a blender and poured into the pan mixed with the chicken and vegetables. I highly recommend adding 1 cup of broccoli florets to the end of the cooking to make the dish more flavorful and filling. This dish is another great way to kick-start your diet or healthy lifestyle when you fell off the bandwagon or got off track. This dish leaves a nice aftertaste in your mouth and you will be satisfied afterwards. 

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

One-Pan Olive Oil and Herb Poached Flounder

 Ingredients:

  • ¾ lb. flounder fillets
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp. minced garlic
  • 2 Tbsp. rosemary, chopped
  • 2 Tbsp. parsley, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. sage, chopped
  • salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
Makes 2 Servings.

    1. Preheat oven to 400°F. 
    2. Pat fish dry and season with salt and pepper to taste.
    3. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, parsley, sage, salt and pepper in a 9x13 baking dish.
    4. Arrange flounder in a single layer in the olive oil mixture. Spoon olive oil mixture over the flounder to coat.
    5. Lay lemon slices on top of the flounder.
    6. Bake 12-15 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and liquid is bubbling.
    7. Serve fish with pan sauce drizzled over top.
    WW POINTS VALUE:? 

    Note: This recipe appears on www.palm.southbeachdiet.com/recipes. Poached fish is quite delicious when it is done right. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice and herbs are so succulent when they go with fish. If you don't have flounder on hand, you can use another white fish such as cod, sole or halibut and the meal will still be delicious. This meal is so quick and easy it can be made any week night in 30 minutes or less. 
    olive oil

    Tuesday, September 1, 2020

    Chicken, Shrimp & Chorizo Paella

     Ingredients:

    • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 2 (3/4 lb.) boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut in half crosswise
    • 1/2 lb. extra-large shrimp, peeled & deveined
    • 1/4 lb. chorizo sausage, cut into 1/4-inch slices
    • 1 onion, finely chopped
    • 1 bell pepper, chopped
    • 1 cup peas
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 (14 1/2 oz.) can diced tomatoes, drained
    • 1 1/4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
    • 3/4 cup long-grain rice
    • 8 small piemento-stuffed green olives sliced
    • 1/2 tsp. saffron threads, crushed
    • 1/8 tsp. smoked paprika
    • 3 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley (optional)
    • salt
    • freshly ground black pepper
    Makes 6 Servings (1 1/3 cups per serving)

    1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, 3-4 minutes on each side. Transfer the chicken to a plate. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until browned, 1 1/2 minutes on each side; transfer to a separate plate. Add the chorizo to the skillet and cook until browned, about 3 minutes on each side; transfer to the plate with the chicken. 
    2. Add the onion, bell pepper and garlic to the skillet; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes, broth, rice, olives, saffron, and paprika; bring to a boil. Add the chicken and chorizo; return to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, about 15 minutes. 
    3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and simmer, covered, until the chicken and chorizo are cooked through and the shrimp are opaque in the center, about 7 minutes. Fluff mixture with a fork and stir in the parsley, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
    WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the WW Ultimate Chicken Cookbook. Paella is considered the national dish of Spain and it's a wonderful comfort food that is full of flavor. Paella is a saffron-infused Valencian rice dish that is rich with ingredients such as chicken, seafood, sausages, vegetables and flavorful seasonings such as saffron and paprika. This version of paella is tasty, filling and deliciously satisfying. The original recipe calls for Keilbasa sausage but I used chorizo because chorizo is a traditional ingredient used in paella. I added peas to the paella for a more filling flavor. Red bell peppers are used in traditional paella but you can use any bell pepper in this recipe. I highly recommend using bomba rice in this recipe for an authentic Spanish flare. 


    Sunday, July 19, 2020

    Crispy Catfish with Tartar Sauce

    Ingredients:
    • 3/4 cup plain fat-free yogurt
    • 1 shallot, finely chopped
    • 2 tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley
    • 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
    • 1 tbsp. fat-free mayonnaise
    • 1 tbsp. pickle relish
    • 2 tsp. capers
    • 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
    • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
    • 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
    • 3/4 cup plain dried bread crumbs
    • 1/4 cup almonds, toasted and finely chopped
    • 2 tsp. dried thyme
    • grated zest of 1 lemon
    • 1/2 cup fat-free buttermilk
    • 4 (5 oz.) catfish fillets
    • lemon wedges
    Makes 4 Servings (1 fish fillet and about 1/3 cup sauce per serving)
    1. To make the tartar sauce, stir together yogurt, shallot, parsley, lemon juice, mayonnaise, pickle relish, capers, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, and cayenne in a serving bowl. Refrigerate, covered, until ready to serve. 
    2. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Spray baking sheet with nonstick spray. 
    3. Mix together bread crumbs, almonds, thyme, and lemon zest on sheet of wax paper. Pour buttermilk into pie plate. Dip fish fillets, one at a time, into buttermilk, then coat with bread crumb mixture, pressing gently so crumbs adhere. 
    4. Place fillets on prepared baking sheet; spray with nonstick spray. Bake until just opaque in the center, about 10 minutes. Serve with tartar sauce and lemon wedges. 
    WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the WW New Complete Cookbook. If you enjoy fish and chips with a side of tartar sauce, you will enjoy making and eating this dish. You can use any kind of fish (cod, halibut, tilapia, etc.) and your meal will be delicious. The fish literally melts in your mouth it's that good. The tartar sauce is both tangy and delicious and it goes great with fish and potatoes. 

    Wednesday, June 24, 2020

    Keto Chicken Fingers

    Ingredients:
    • 1 tsp. garlic powder
    • 1 tsp. onion powder
    • 1/4 tsp. salt
    • 1 lb. chicken breast tenders
    • 1/2 cup fresh basil
    • 1/4 cup parsley sprigs
    • 1/4 cup blanched slivered almonds
    • 1 clove garlic
    • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded (wear plastic gloves when handling)
    • 1/8 tsp. sea salt
    • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
    • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 2 Tbsp. water
    • Fresh basil, for garnish

    Makes 4 Servings
    1. Coat a grill rack or broiler-pan rack with cooking spray. Preheat the grill or boiler.
    2. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Cut two 1/2"-deep slashes in each side of the chicken breast. Rub the spice mix on the chicken, pressing it into the slits. Place the chicken in a baking pan and coat completely with cooking spray. Let sit for 10 minutes.
    3. In a food processor, combine basil, parsley, almonds, garlic, jalapeno pepper and salt. Process until chopped. While the processor is running, add the lemon juice and oil through the feed tube, stopping the machine once or twice to scrape down the sides of the container until the sauce is smooth. Pour the sauce into a bowl. Stir in the water, cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
    4. Place the chicken on the prepared rack and grill or broil 6" from the heat, turning several times, for 15 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted in the thickest portion registers 170°F and the juices run clear. Serve with the sauce and garnish with fresh basil.
    WW POINTS VALUE: ? 

    Note: This recipe appears on www.southbeachdiet.com/recipes. These chicken fingers are a healthy and flavorful take on traditional chicken fingers. They are not fried but broiled or grilled and are packed with flavorful herbs and spices as well as a jalapeno pepper. They are succulent and juicy and go great with a side of coleslaw. 
    Lightened-Up Chicken Fingers

    Monday, June 22, 2020

    Keto Spaghetti & Meatballs

    Ingredients:
    Meatballs:
    • 1/2 lb. ground beef
    • 1/4 lb. ground pork
    • 2 tbsp. fresh minced garlic, divided
    • 1/2 cup almond flour
    • 2 tbsp. shredded Parmesan cheese
    • 1 egg

    Sauce:
    • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes
    • 1 tsp. dried basil
    • 1 tsp. dried thyme
    • 1/2 tsp. dried oregano

    Noodles:
    • 5 cups zucchini noodles
    • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
    Makes 4 Servings (3 meatballs per serving)
    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef, pork, 1 tablespoon of the garlic, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, and salt and pepper to taste.
    2. Form the mixture into 12 meatballs.
    3. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 2-3 minutes on all sides, until browned. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding, if needed. 
    4. Remove the meatballs and set aside. 
    5. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of garlic to the pan and saute for 1 minute. 
    6. Add the crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup water, basil, thyme. oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to medium-low. Add meatballs back to the sauce and simmer covered for 10-12 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through. 
    7. Turn off the heat. Add the zucchini noodles to the pot and toss to warm. Scoop the noodles, meatballs, and sauce onto 4 plates and garnish with chopped parsley. 
    WW POINTS VALUE: 11 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. Who knew keto-friendly spaghetti and meatballs could taste so good? This take on an Italian comfort food classic is quite filling and flavorful. You can make zucchini noodles with a spiralizer and they come out great. If you're planning ahead, you can make the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Then you can reheat the meatballs and toss with the zucchini noodles. You can also use ground turkey, veal, beef, chicken or pork in this recipe and the dish will still taste delicious. 

    Wednesday, April 22, 2020

    Home-Style Chicken & 'Rice'

    Ingredients:
    • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1/2 tbsp. butter
    • 1/4 cup diced onion
    • 1/4 cup diced carrot
    • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
    • 1 tbsp. tapioca flour
    • 1/4 cup heavy cream
    • 1/2 cup chicken broth
    • 1 tsp. garlic powder
    • 1/2 tsp. paprika
    • 1 1/2 cups cooked cauliflower rice
    • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
    Makes 4 Servings
    1. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large saucepan.
    2. Pat the chicken dry. Dice it into 1/2-inch pieces and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Place the chicken in the hot pan and cook it for 3-4 minutes, until brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside, reserving the grease in the pan. 
    3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to melt. 
    4. Add the onion, carrot, and mushrooms. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and the mushrooms are browned. 
    5. Sprinkle the vegetables with tapioca flour and stir for 1 minute to incorporate. 
    6.  Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and paprika to the mixture. Bring it to a light boil. 
    7. Return the chicken to the pan, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened. Evenly distribute the cauliflower rice into 4 individual bowl; than add the cooked chicken and veggies. Garnish with parsley and serve. 
    WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. I had chicken and rice for dinner as a kid and it was NOTHING like this dish. This chicken dish is filled with vegetables and flavor. The rice in this dish is shredded cauliflower. Shredded cauliflower is so good you'll forget it's not rice. The sauce has a nice, spicy taste to it adding flavor to the succulent chicken and vegetables. Serve this comfort food dish and it will become a staple favorite on the weekeday. 

    Monday, March 30, 2020

    Salmon Ball

    Ingredients:
    • 2 cups canned salmon, drained, flaked, and skin and bones removed
    • 8 oz. reduced fat cream cheese, softened
    • 1 tbsp. finely chopped onion
    • 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
    • 1 tsp. horseradish
    • 1/4 tsp. salt
    • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
    • 1/4 tsp. liquid smoke
    • 1/2 cup chopped almonds
    • 3 tbsp. chopped parsley
    Makes 1 (5-inch) ball or 16 (2-tbsp.) Servings
    1. In a large bowl, combine the salmon, cream cheese, lemon juice, horseradish, salt, and liquid smoke; mix thoroughly. Refrigerate for 4 hours, or until form enough to form a ball. 
    2. In a small bowl, combine the almonds and parsley. Shape the salmon mixture into a ball. Roll in the almond mixture. Refrigerate for 1 hour, or until chilled. 
    WW POINTS VALUE: 2 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Cookbook. Salmon makes a delicious snack during the day. Don't be intimidated by the ingredients in this recipe. The combination of flaked salmon, cream cheese, onion and horseradish make a delicious dip. This appetizer makes a nice snack as a salmon ball or as a dip served with vegetable or crackers. 

    Monday, March 23, 2020

    Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Zucchini Fettuccine

    Ingredients:
    Chicken:
    • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 2 shallots, finely chopped
    • 1 tsp. minced garlic
    • 2 tbsp. sun-dried tomatoes
    • 2 cups cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
    • 4 pieces (about 4 oz. each) thinly-sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 4 tbsp. cream cheese
    • 1/2 cup chicken stock or water
    Filling:
    • 2 tbsp. shredded Parmesan cheese
    • 1 tbsp. capers, chopped
    • 3 tbsp. freshly chopped Italian parsley
    • 3 tbsp. pine nuts
    Fettuccine:
    • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 2 medium zucchini or yellow squash, spiralized, sliced, or peeled into ribbons with a vegetable peeler, or sliced into thin rounds
    • 1 garlic clove, finely minced
    • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
    • 2 tbsp. fresh chopped basil leaves
    Makes 4 Servings
    1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with olive oil and set it aside. 
    2. Heat the oil in a large skillet and sauté the shallots, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes for 2-3 minutes. Add the mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and all liquid has evaporated, about 4 -5 minutes. 
    3. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and stir in the Parmesan cheese, capers, parsley, and pine nuts to create a filling for the chicken.
    4. Place the chicken breasts between 2 sheets of plastic food wrap and gently flatten them to about 1/2-inch, using a meat mallet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
    5. Spread each chicken fillet with 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese and spoon 1/4 of the filling on top. 
    6. Roll up the breasts, tucking in the ends, and secure them with kitchen twine or wooden toothpicks. 
    7. Arrange the stuffed chicken, seam side down, onto the greased baking dish. Add the chicken stock and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden. Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent with aluminum foil to keep warm; set aside. 
    8. To make the fettucine, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, adding the spiralized or otherwise precut zucchini, garlic and tomatoes. Cook, tossing often, for 2-3 minutes, or until the zucchini pieces are just tender. Stir in the basil and remove the mixture from the heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
    9. Slice the stuffed chicken breasts evenly into 4 slices and serve alongside the zucchini fettucine. 

    WW POINTS VALUE: 9 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the New-Keto Friendly South Beach Diet book. Don't be intimidated by the ingredients in this dish. This Italian dish is flavorful and full of vegetables. The stuffing for the chicken is quite tasty and the zucchini fettucine is quite delicious. You won't miss the traditional pasta that goes with the chicken. The chicken is also succulent and flavorful too you will want to eat it again. 

    Wednesday, March 18, 2020

    Almond Flour Chicken Piccata

    Ingredients:
    Chicken:
    • 2/3 cup almond flour
    • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
    • 4 small or medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 egg
    • 2 tbsp. whole buttermilk
    • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley, divided
    Sauce:
    • 1 tbsp. butter
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1/2 cup chicken broth
    • 1/4 cup lemon juice
    • 3 tbsp. capers
    Makes 4 Servings
    1. Combine the almond flour and Parmesan cheese with salt and pepper to taste in a shallow bowl and set aside. 
    2. Pat chicken dry and then season it with salt and pepper to taste. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag. Press out the air and seal the bag. Pound the chicken breasts until they are about 1/2-inch thick. 
    3. Whisk the egg buttermilk, and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl until combined. Add the mixture to the bag with the chicken. Reseal it, and shake to coat the chicken breasts.
    4. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large sauté pan. 
    5. Remove the chicken from the bag, allowing the excess egg mixture to drip away. Place the chicken breasts in the almond mixture and press to coat both sides. Shake away any excess and transfer the chicken to the hot pan. 
    6. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through and golden. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep it warm. 
    7. Melt the butter in the same sauté pan. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. 
    8. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits. 
    9. Remove the sauce from the heat. Add the capers and 1 tablespoon of the parsley; stir to combine. 
    10. Place one chicken breast one each of 4 plates, top with the sauce, and garnish with the remaining parsley. 
    WW POINTS VALUE: 12 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. You don't have to be afraid of the words 'keto-friendly.' Keto is short for ketogenic, referring to a diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in protein. This version of a classic Italian dish is keto-friendly because it uses almond flour instead of whole wheat or regular flour. This dish is very flavorful and delicious. The combination of lemon juice, chicken broth, garlic, and capers give this dish a tasty flare. This dish will become a favorite it's that good. 

    Monday, March 2, 2020

    Beef and Vegetables Stew

    Ingredients:
    • 3 tbsp. butter, divided
    • 1 lb. diced beef
    • 1/2 cup pearl onions or chopped onions
    • 1/4 cup chopped celery
    • 1/2 cup chopped carrots
    • 8 oz. Portobello mushrooms, cleaned and chopped
    • 1 cup diced turnips
    • 1 tsp. gelatin powder
    • 2 tsp. minced garlic
    • juice of 1 lemon
    • 2 tbsp. tomato paste
    • 2 cups beef broth
    • 1/4 canned white beans, rinsed and drained (optional) 
    • 2 tbsp. chopped parsley
    Makes 4 Servings
    1. Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. 
    2. Pat the beef dry and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Add the beef to the pot and brown it for 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove the beef and set aside. 
    3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of the butter to the pot and melt.
    4. Add the onions, celery, and carrots to the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
    5. meanwhile, pour 1/4 cup of water into a small bowl and sprinkle the gelatin over the top. Set the mixture aside to soften for at least 5 minutes. 
    6. Add the garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute, until golden. 
    7. Add the lemon juice, tomato juice, and beef broth and stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. 
    8. Add the beef and beans (if using) to the pot and bring the stew to a boil. Once it is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. 
    9. Whisk the gelatin into the water and blend to dissolve it; then add the mixture to the stew. Simmer the stew for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the broth is slightly thickened. 
    10. When you are ready to serve, ladle the stew evenly into 4 bowls and garnish with the parsley. 
    WW POINTS VALUE: 11 pts. with or without the beans

    Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. Beef stew is an elegant and wonderful comfort food to enjoy. This version of beef stew is filled with tender beef, pearl onions, mushrooms and the options of white beans. If you want to make this stew with fewer carbs, make it without the beans and add a touch of diced tomatoes instead and the stew will be just as flavorful. 

    Cod with Almond-Basil Relish

    Ingredients:
    Relish:
    • 1/2 cup almond-stuffed green olives, sliced (or substitute 1/4 cup pitted green olives and 1/4 cup blanched almonds)
    • 2 tbsp. capers, chopped
    • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 2 tbsp. chopped roasted red peppers
    • 4 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
    • 2 tbsp. lemon juice, to taste
    • 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
    Cod:
    • 4 (5 oz.) skinless cod or haddock filets
    • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 tbsp. unsalted butter
    • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
    Makes 4 Servings (1 fillet per serving)
    1. Combine all the relish ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste and refrigerate until needed. 
    2. Season the fish with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until golden. 
    3. Transfer the fish to serving plate and serve topped with the relish and sprinkled with the parsley.
    WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the New Keto-Friendly South Beach Diet book. Fish and vegetables make a great dinner when it's done right. This dinner takes about 20 minutes to make and it can be enjoyed on any day of the week. The flavors from the relish have a nice Italian and Mediterranean flare and will wake up your taste buds. You can serve your choice of grilled or sautéed vegetable to make this meal complete. You can use cod, haddock, halibut or any white flaky fish in this recipe and your meal will be delicious. 
    Cod with Almond-Basil Relish Recipe

    Monday, February 3, 2020

    Beef Stroganoff

    Ingredients:
    • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 lb. steak, cut in 1-inch pieces
    • 1 yellow onion, diced
    • 1 garlic clove, minced
    • 8 oz. white or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
    • 1 cup beef broth
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1 tbsp. tomato paste
    • ½ cup sour cream
    • ¼ cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
    • salt
    • freshly ground black pepper
    Makes 6 Servings
    1. Add the olive oil to a large pan over medium heat.
    2. Add the steak cubes to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute on each side or until lightly browned.
    3. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside on a plate.
    4. Using the same pan, sauté the onions, mushrooms and garlic until cooked and onions are transluscent, about 5 minutes.
    5. Add the steak back to the skillet. 
    6. Add beef broth, tomato paste and heavy cream to the pan and bring to a boil.
    7. Turn the heat down and simmer until the steak becomes tender, about 15 minutes.
    8. Stir in the sour cream and season with salt and pepper. 
    9. Garnish with parsley and serve.
    WW POINTS VALUE: ?

    Note: This recipe appears on the South Beach Diet website. Beef Stroganoff is a simple and an elegant dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. This version of the dish is Keto friendly and it omits the pasta and rice. This dish is filled with meat and vegetables and is very filling. I added tomato paste to this dish for a extra kick of flavor and it makes the dish more decadent.
    beef stroganoff



    Wednesday, December 4, 2019

    Vegetable Tart

    Ingredients:
    Tart Shell:
    • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
    • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, thyme
    • 1 tsp. salt
    • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • 10 tbsp. ice water
    Filling:
    • 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 2 large shallots, chopped
    • 1 1/2 cups thinly sliced mushroom caps
    • 1/2 lb. asparagus, cut into1-inch pieces
    • 1 (10 oz.) frozen spinach thawed and squeezed of excess liquid
    • 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
    • 3 large eggs
    • salt 
    • freshly ground black pepper
    • 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat Swiss cheese 
    Makes 8 Servings
    1. Heat the oven to 325 F. Coat a 9-inch tart pan with cooking spray. 
    2. For the tart shell: In a large bowl, stir together the flour, herbs and salt. Blend in the oil with your fingers. Add the water, a couple of  tablespoons at a time, blending until a ball forms. Knead a few times until smooth. Pat into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 15 minutes. 
    3. Meanwhile, to  make the filling: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the shallots and cook for 2 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes. Add the asparagus and cook for 3 minutes. Stir in the spinach. 
    4.  Roll the dough out to a 12-inch circle. Press into the tart pan, tucking the edges under. Prick the dough with a fork several times. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the crust looks dry. Let cool briefly. Increase the oven temperature to 350 F. 
    5. In a large bowl, stir together the ricotta, eggs, vegetable mixture, salt, and pepper to taste. Spread in the tar shell. Top with the Swiss cheese. Bake for 50-55 minutes, until lightly browned. Serve warmed or at room at temperature. 
    WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Super Quick Cookbook. This tart is a delicious treat. This tart is both filling and flavorful with the herbed crust, vegetables, eggs and cheeses. If you don't have ricotta cheese on hand, use cottage cheese and the tart will be just as delicious. Italian cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone and Parmesan cheese work just as well as Swiss cheese. Kale and arugula work just as well as spinach in this recipe too. This recipe will be a new comfort food for both meat lovers and vegetarians. 

    Wednesday, October 30, 2019

    Grilled Lemon Chicken

    Ingredients:
    • 1 garlic clove, peeled
    • 1/2 tsp. salt
    • 2 tsp. grated lemon zest
    • 3 tbsp. lemon juice 
    • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 tsp. dried oregano
    • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
    • 4 (5 oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • chopped fresh parsley for garnish
    Makes 4 Servings (1 chicken breast per serving)
    1. With the side of a large knife, mash garlic with salt until it forms a paste. 
    2. To make the marinade, combine the lemon zest and juice, oil, garlic paste, oregano, and pepper in a large zip-close plastic bag; add chicken. Squeeze out air and seal bag; turn to coat chicken. Refrigerate, turning bag occasionally, at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. 
    3. Spray grill rack with nonstick spray. Preheat grill to medium or prepare medium fire using direct method. 
    4. Remove chicken from marinade; discard marinade. Place chicken on grill rack and grill until cooked through, about 6 minutes per side. Serve sprinkled with parsley. 
    WW POINTS VALUE: 4 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the WW New Complete Cookbook. Grilled chicken is succulent, juicy and delicious when it's done right. The combination of lemon, garlic and herbs is quite tasty and delicious. This chicken dish will melt in your mouth it's that good. 

    Sunday, September 29, 2019

    Summer Salad With Fresh Herb Vinaigrette

    Ingredients:
    • 1/2 lb. green beans, halved
    • 1/4 lb. sugar snap peas, strings removed
    • 1 tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil, thyme, marjoram, chervil or a combination
    • 1 tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley
    • 1 tbsp. minced red onion
    • 2 tsp. red wine vinegar
    • 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
    • 1 garlic clove, minced
    • 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
    • salt 
    • freshly ground black pepper
    • 4 cups lightly packed baby lettuce leaves
    • 1 small cucumber, peeled, halved, seeded, and thinly sliced
    • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
    Makes 4 Servings 
    1. Bring a medium saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the green beans, return to a boil, and cook for 2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon or skimmer, transfer the beans to a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Transfer to a plate. 
    2. Add the snap peas to the boiling water  and cook for 30 seconds Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Halve the snap peas lengthwise. Pat the beans and snap peas dry. 
    3. In a cup, whisk together the basil (and/or other herbs), parsley, onion, vinegar, mustard, and garlic. Drizzle in the olive oil and whisk to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
    4. In a large serving bowl combine the beans, snap peas, lettuce, cucumber, and bell pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. 

    WW  POINTS VALUE: 3 pts. 

    Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Super Quick Cookbook. This salad is flavorful and delicious. It goes great with any lean protein dish and will quickly fill you up. You can use other vegetables such as zucchini, yellow squash and tomatoes in this side dish and it will stil lbe both colorful and delicious.