Chicken & Bell Pepper Fajitas

 Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. lime juice
• 1 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
• pinch red pepper flakes
• 3/4 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut on diagonal into thin strips
• 2 tsp. canola oil
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 (6-inch) fat-free flour tortillas, warmed
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup sour cream

Makes 4 Servings (1 fajita, 2 tablespoons salsa, & 1 tablespoon sour cream per serving)

1. To make marinade, combine lime juice, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, and pepper flakes 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 2 hours or up to over night. Remove chicken from marinade; discard marinade. 
2. Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add bell peppers and onion; cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes, adding 1 or 2 tablespoons water if skillet becomes dry. Transfer to plate; keep warm. 
3. Increase heat to medium-high. Add remaining 2 teaspoons oil in skillet. Add chicken and cook, stirring, until cooked through, about 5 minutes. 
4. Place tortillas on work surface; top each with one-fourth of chicken vegetables. Roll up tortillas to enclose filling. Serve with salsa and sour cream. 

WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts.

Note: This recipe appears in the WW New Complete Cookbook. Fajitas are a wonderful comfort food of the Latin culture. They are flavorful, they quickly fill you up and leave you satisfied. These fajitas are delicious they will quickly become a favorite in your home. You can use any kind of protein in this dish such as chicken, turkey, beef, pork and even fish in this recipe and your fajitas will be delicious. 

Spicy Parmesan Crisps

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 small serrano pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 sweet mini peppers, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

For the toppings: (optional)

• 1/4 cup shredded full-fat sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tbsp. hemp seeds
• 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp. onion powder

Makes 10 crisps (5 crisps per serving)

1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a large silicon baking mat. 
2. Place a heaping tablespoon of Parmesan on the prepared baking sheet and spread it into a 3-inch circle. This is most easily done using a 3-inch egg ring or cookie cutter as a guide. Repeat until all the cheese has been used; you should have enough for 10 circles. 
3. Carefully portion the sliced serrano pepper and sweet peppers on top of the cheese circles and sprinkle each circle with the Italian seasoning  and red pepper flakes. Additional toppings may be added or substituted. 
4. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the edges begin to brown. 
5. Let the crisps cool slightly for a minute or two on the baking sheet before serving. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. 

WW POINTS VALUE: 2 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the New-Keto Friendly South Beach Diet book. Who doesn't love cheese? These cheese crisps are a healthy and delicious alternative to crackers. Don't be intimidated by the ingredients in these treats. The ingredients are more natural and flavorful and these crisps are more flavorful than ordinary crackers. They can be made in 10 minutes or less and are great for a midday snack or for a gathering. You can use any kind of cheeses in this recipe and the crisps will still be tasty. 

Sweet-and-Spicy Chicken

Ingredients:

• 2 scallions, chopped
• 3 tbsp. mirin
• 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp. granular sugar or honey
• 2 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 4 (1/4-lb.) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth

Makes 4 Servings (1 chicken thigh per serving)

1. Combine the scallions, mirin, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of the oil, and the pepper flakes in a zip-close plastic bag; add the chicken. Squeeze out the air and seal the bag; turn to coat the chicken. Refrigerate, turning the bag occasionally, for at lest 2 hours or up to overnight. 
2. Lift the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Discard the marinade. Heat the remaining 1 teaspoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 2 minutes on each side. Add the broth; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and the liquid is syrupy, about 10 minutes. Turn the chicken to coat with the liquid. Cut the chicken into slices to serve. 

WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts. 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Ultimate Chicken Cookbook. Sweet and spicy chicken is quite delicious. Marinating the chicken takes a long process but the end result is delicious. The chicken is succulent and juicy. I highly recommend substituting honey in place of the sugar for a sweeter taste and a little lime juice and minced garlic to kick the flavor up a notch. I also highly recommend serving this chicken on a salad made of savoy cabbage, sliced carrots, thinly sliced radishes and a matchstick-cut Gala apple for a very filling dish. 

Grilled Chicken with Puttanesca Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• kosher salt 
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes, quartered
• 1 tbsp. capers, drained
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp. anchovy paste
• 8 medium Kalamata olives, pitted and finely chopped
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp. fresh basil, slivered

Makes 4 Servings (3 oz. chicken + 1/2 cup sauce per serving)

1. Coat a ridged grill pan with cooking spray; set over medium-high heat. (Alternately, coat an outdoor grill with cooking spray; heat grill to medium-high). 
2. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper; grill 2-3 minutes. Flip chicken; grill until just cooked through, 1-2 minutes more. Transfer to a platter; let rest 5 minutes. 
3. While chicken rests, combine tomatoes, olives and capers in a medium bowl; set aside. 
4. Heat oil in a small skillet over medium heat; add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until just fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in anchovy paste, if using. 
5. Add garlic mixture to tomato mixture; sprinkle with basil and stir gently. Serve chicken with sauce spooned over top.

WW POINTS VALUE: 1 pt. 

Note: This recipe appears on www.weightwatchers.com. Puttanesca sauce hails from Naples, Italy and is made from tomatoes, capers, garlic, anchovies and Kalamata olives. This sauce is typically served with spaghetti but it's delicious with chicken. This version is spicy yet comforting with grilled chicken. Grilled chicken with any kind of homemade sauce is deliciously divine. This dish will quickly become a favorite warm weather dish at your dinner table.  

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Lamb Chops with Yogurt-Mint Sauce

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup plain nonfat yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
• 1/4 cup packed fresh mint leaves
• 3 scallions, sliced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 4 (5 oz.) bone-in loin lamb chops, about 1 inch thick, trimmed
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Makes 4 Servings (1 chop & about 1/4 cup sauce per serving)

1. Spray broiler rack with nonstick spray. Preheat broiler.
2. To make sauce, stir together yogurt, cucumber, mint, scallions, garlic, pepper flakes, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a blender or food processor and puree. Transfer to serving dish.
3. Sprinkle lamb with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and the black pepper. Place on prepared broiler rack and broil 5 inches from heat until instant-read thermometer inserted into side of chop registers 145 F for medium, about 5 minutes per side. Serve with sauce.

WW POINTS VALUE: 4 pts.

Note: This recipe appears in the WW New Complete Cookbook. Lamb chops broiled or grilled are so delicious, succulent and juicy. The yogurt-mint sauce adds a nice touch of flavor to the lamb giving it a cool and refreshing aftertaste. You can even use the sauce on top of grilled vegetables to serve alongside the lamb.

Argentina-Style Steak and Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lightly packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup lightly packed cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 1 (1 lb.) top round steak, trimmed
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Makes 4 Servings

1. Spray grill rack with nonstick spray. Preheat grill to medium-high of prepare medium-high fore using direct method.
2. Meanwhile, to make the sauce, combine parsley, cilantro, vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and the pepper flakes in a serving bowl. Add enough cold water to give the mixture a saucy consistency, if needed.
3. Sprinkle steak with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and the black pepper. Place steak on grill rack and grill until instant-read thermometer inserted into center of steak registers 145 F for medium, about 6 minutes per side.
4. Transfer steak to cutting board and let stand for 10 minutes. Thinly slice steak across grain into 12 slices. Serve with sauce.

WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts.

Note: This recipe appear in the WW New Complete Cookbook. This is what I call a restaurant quality meal. Who doesn't love a grilled steak with a homemade sauce once in a while? If you really want to make this meal filling, serve a baked potato and/or grilled vegetables alongside the steak to make the meal complete.

Western Burgers with Grilled Fennel and Spiced-Up Ketchup

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup no-salt-added ketchup
• 4 tsp. red wine vinegar
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1/8-1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
• 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp. dried bread crumbs
• 1 lb. ground grass-fed bison
• salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 light whole wheat hamburgers buns, split
• 8 small romaine lettuce leaves

Makes 4 Servings (1 burger per serving)

1. Spray grill rack with nonstick spray. Preheat grill to medium-high or prepare medium-high fire.
2. Meanwhile, to make spiced-up ketchup, combine ketchup, vinegar, garlic, and pepper flakes in a small saucepan; bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in basil.
3. Combine Worcestershire sauce, egg, bread crumbs, bison, salt and pepper into 4 (1/2-inch thick) patties.
4. Place fennel on grill rack and grill, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and tender, about 8 minutes. Transfer to plate. Place patties on grill rack and grill 4 minutes. Turn and sprinkle evenly with Parmesan. Grill burgers until instant-read thermometer inserted into side of burger registers 160 F, about 4 minutes longer. Transfer burgers to plate. Place buns, cut side down, on grill rack and grill lightly until lightly toasted, about 1 minute.
5. Place bottoms of buns on 4 plates. Top each with one-fourth of fennel, 1 burger, one-fourth of ketchup, and 2 lettuce leaves. Cover with tops of buns.

WW POINTS VALUE: 9 pts.

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Family Meals Cookbook. These are what I call gourmet American burgers. These burgers are flavorful, juicy and delicious. I added dried bread crumbs and an egg to make the burgers moist and to hold them together so the point value could be effected. I also added the Worcestershire sauce to make the burgers more flavorful. The Parmesan cheese adds a nice taste of saltiness to the burgers. Serve these burgers at your next gathering and they will be gone.

Spicy Broccoli Parmesan

Ingredients:

• 1 head broccoli (about 1 lb.)
• 1 tbsp. + 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Makes 4 Servings (1 cup per serving)

1. Separate the broccoli florets from the stalks. With a paring knife, trim off the very bottom of the stalks. Peel the stalks and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Cut the florets in half lengthwise.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil, garlic, peppers flakes, and salt over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets, stalk slices, and 1/4 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook until the broccoli is tender, 5-7 minutes.
3. Transfer to a serving bowl. Add the Parmesan and toss to coat.

WW POINTS VALUE: 3 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Gluten Solution Cookbook. This side dish is quick, easy, and flavorful and can be made in 20 minutes or less. You can also use frozen broccoli florets (thawed) in this recipe and the broccoli will still be delicious. This side dish goes perfect with any kind of fish, chicken, veal, pork, turkey and even beef. 

Chicken Fajitas

Ingredients:

• juice of 2 limes
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut lengthwise into strips
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped scallions
• 1 small jalapeno, seeded and minced
• 2 tsp. canola oil
• 1 small red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 small green bell pepper, cut into strips
• 4 (8-inch) whole wheat tortillas, warmed

Makes 4 Servings (1 fajita per serving)

1. Mix together 2 tablespoons of lime juice, garlic, chili powder, pepper flakes, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper in medium bowl; add chicken and stir until coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours.
2. Meanwhile, to make salsa, combine tomatoes, scallions, jalapeno, remaining lime juice, and remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper in another medium bowl. Set aside to allow flavors to blend.
3. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in large heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell peppers; cook, stirring frequently, until softened, about 5 minutes. Transfer vegetables to medium bowl and keep warm.
4. Add remaining 1 teaspoon oil to skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add chicken and any marinade remaining in bowl, but discard garlic (juices will sizzle so be careful of splattering liquid). Cook, turning occasionally, until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6 minutes.
5. To serve, put one-fourth of chicken on each tortilla; top each with about 1/2 cup of vegetables and 1/2 cup of salsa.

WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Family Meals Cookbook. If you're having a Mexican fiesta or have a craving for Mexican food, these treats are for you. Fajitas can be very filling and delicious when they are done right. If you have access to a grill, I highly recommend grilling your chicken and vegetables because grilled  chicken and vegetables is SO delicious. You can use pork, chicken or even turkey in these fajitas and they will be delicious no matter what.

Argentina-Style Steak & Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lightly packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 red pepper flakes
• 1 (1 lb.) top round steak, trimmed
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Makes 4 Servings (3 slices steak & 1 1/2 tbsp. sauce per serving)

1. Spray grill rack with nonstick spray. Preheat grill to medium-high or prepare medium-high fire using direct method.
2. Meanwhile, to make sauce, combine parsley, cilantro, vinegar, oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and the pepper flakes in serving bowl. Add enough cold water to give mixture a saucy consistency, if needed.
3. Sprinkle steak with remaining 1/4 teaspoon  salt and the black pepper. Place steak on grill rack and grill until instant-read thermometer inserted into center of steak registers 145 F for medium, about 6 minutes  per side.
4. Transfer steak to cutting board and let stand for 10 minutes. Thinly slice steak across grain into 12 slices. Serve with sauce

WW POINTS VALUE:  5 pts.

Note: This recipe appears in the WW New Complete Cookbook. If you're craving a steak with flavor, this dish is for you. This steak is so succulent and juicy when it's cooked right. The sauce is spicy and flavorful and it goes great on steak, potatoes and vegetables. I highly recommend adding minced garlic to the sauce because garlic always makes everything taste better.

Italian-Style Black Bean Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. dried black beans
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 medium red bell peppers, finely chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 tbsp. ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
• salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 6 cups lower-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/8 tsp. baking powder
• 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
• lime wedges, chopped fresh cilantro, diced red onion, diced avocado and/or reduced-fat sour cream for garnish

Makes 8 Servings

1.  Place the beans in a large bowl. Cover with water and soak for at least 6 hours or over night. Drain.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers, onions, and celery and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in the broth and remove from the heat.
4. In a 5-to 6-quart slow cooker, combine the beans, bay leaves, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Pour the vegetable mixture over the beans. Cover and cook over high heat for about 5 hours, or until beans are creamy (or cook for 8 hours on low heat.)
5. Discard the bay leaves. Ladle about 1 1/2 cups of the soup into a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Return to the slow cooker and stir in the lime juice. Serve  hot with your favorite garnishes.

WW POINTS VALUE: 6 pts.

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Super Quick Cookbook. This soup is a great way to kick-start your healthy lifestyle. It's creamy, flavorful and very soothing. This vegetarian soup is comforting with a kick of cumin. I highly recommend adding tomatoes or avocado to the soup for more flare to kick it up a notch.

Osso Buco-Style Chicken

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 (7 oz.) whole chicken legs, skinned
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp. salt

Makes 6 Servings (1 whole chicken leg with 1/2 cup of sauce per serving)

1. Heat the oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 3 chicken legs and cooked until browned, about 4 minutes on each side. Transfer the chicken to a plate. Repeat to brown the remaining chicken.
2. Add the onion, carrot, celery, garlic, oregano, and pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 4 minutes. Pour in the broth, stirring constantly to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the tomatoes, salt, and chicken; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until the chicken is cooked through and very tender, about 40 minutes.

WW POINTS VALUE: 7 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Ultimate Chicken Cookbook. Osso bucco is a Millanese specialty  that consists of veal shanks braised with vegetables, white wine and broth, is often garnished with gremolata and served with a side of risotto Milanese. This version of an Italian classic uses chicken in place of the veal and it tastes just as good. This dish is very filling it will leave you satisfied.

Five-Ingredient Tomato-Cheese Pizza

Ingredients:

• 3/4 lb. whole wheat pizza dough, at room temperature
• cornmeal, for the pan
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese

Makes 8 Servings

1. Place oven rack on bottom rung oven and preheat oven to 500 F.
2. Turn dough onto lightly floured work surface. With lightly floured rolling pin, roll dough into 12-inch round. Sprinkle pizza pan or large baking sheet with cornmeal. Transfer dough to prepared pan, gently pulling dough back into 12-inch round. (If dough resists, cover lightly with clean kitchen towel and let rest about 10 minutes.)
3. Spread tomato sauce over dough; sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake until crust is golden and cheeses are melted, 12-15 minutes.

WW POINTS VALUE: 4 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Family Meals Cookbook. This is a quick and easy dish that is better than takeout. The only thing hard about this recipe is actually rolling out the dough because pizza dough sometimes has a mind of its own. This pizza tastes better and is cheaper than what you would order at a pizzeria. I highly recommend putting on homemade tomato sauce on this pizza as well as fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a more authentic Italian taste. It will be more than 5 ingredients but it's worth it.

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.



Thai Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz.) can light coconut milk
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp. grated lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp. grated lime zest
• 2 cups sliced asparagus tips
• 1 cup halved mushrooms
• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small head bok choy, stems sliced and leaves left whole
• 1/4 cup unsalted peanuts
• 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1 small bunch fresh basil, slivered

Makes 4 Servings

 

In food processor, combine the coconut milk, garlic, lemon and lime zest. Pulse to process into a paste. Remove to a large skillet. Place over medium-high heat and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the asparagus, mushrooms, bell pepper, bok choy, peanuts and red pepper flakes and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the soy sauce, lime juice, lemon juice, and basil and simmer, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes.

 

WW POINTS VALUE: 4 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Cookbook. You can make this vegetarian dish in about 30 minutes or less and it will be delicious. You can serve this dish as a side dish or as a vegetarian entrée and it will be deliciously satisfying. Don't be intimidated by Thai food. Thai food has all the flavors you love: hot, spicy, sweet, sour, bitter and aromatic. If you don't have bok choy on hand, spinach will work just as well. The great thing about this dish is that it has 4 different kinds of vegetables in it so you could get your daily servings of vegetables in this dish.

Apple Cider Vinegar Barbecue Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 3 tbsp. granular brown sugar
• 1 tbsp. molasses
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• salt
• freshly ground black pepper

Makes 16 Servings (2 cups total, 2 tbsp. per serving)

 

Combine all ingredients. Bring to a simmer to dissolve sugar. Do not boil or reduce.

 

WW POINTS VALUE: 0 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. If you are desperate for a delicious barbecue sauce, this sauce is for you. This sauce can be made in 20 minutes or less and can sit in your refrigerator for 3 months. I highly recommend using this barbecue sauce on chicken or pork for a succulent and juicy meal. The sauce literally melts in your mouth and it's absolutely delicious.

Chicken Cacciatore

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs. bone-in chicken parts (breasts, drumsticks, & thighs)
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 red bell peppers, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/4 lb. cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fat-free marinara sauce
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
• pinch red pepper flakes

Makes 8 Servings (1 piece chicken & 1/2 cup vegetables and sauce)

1. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to plate.
2. Heat remaining  1 teaspoon oil in the same skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring, until onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Add bell peppers and mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Return chicken to skillet. Pour marinara sauce over chicken, stir in oregano and pepper flakes; bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes longer. Skim off fat. Remove skin before eating.

WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW New Complete Cookbook. This dish is a delicious compliment to Italy. It's full of flavor and will leave you satisfied. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thighs or drumsticks and your dinner will be delicious no matter what. You can use any color bell peppers in this dish too and any kind of sugar-free marinara sauce (including puttanesca sauce) and this dish will taste just as good at home as it would at a restaurant. I also highly recommend pouring a little white wine when cooking the chicken for a more sophisticated Italian flare.



Kung Pao Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1/3 cup sake or mirin
• 3 tbsp. hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp. cornstarch
• 2 tbsp. honey
• 3 tsp. Asian (dark) sesame oil
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 1 tbsp. grated peeled fresh ginger
• 1/4  tsp. red pepper flakes
• 1 (8 oz.) can sliced water chestnuts, drained
• 1 1 /4 cups unsalted dry-roasted peanuts

Makes 8 Servings (3/4 cup per serving)

1. Combine the broth, sake, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, and honey in a bowl; mix well.
2. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat until a drop of water sizzles. Pour in 2 teaspoons of the oil and swirl to coat the pan, then add the chicken. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through, about 8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the plate.
3. Add the remaining 1 teaspoon oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the pan. Add the scallions, ginger, and pepper flakes; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the water chestnuts and peanuts; stir-fry until heated through, about 1 minute. Add the broth mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture bubbles and thickens, about 1 minute. Add the chicken and cook until heated through, about 1 minutes longer.

WW POINTS VALUE: 8 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Ultimate Chicken Cookbook. Who does not love Chinese food once in a while? Kung Pao chicken is a Chinese takeout classic and can be made at home in less time it takes for you to call the restaurant and pick up your order. This version of the Chinese classic gets is bursting flavor from Sake (Japanese rice wine) hoisin sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes. I highly recommend adding a touch of garlic because garlic ALWAYS makes every savory meal taste better. To make this meal even more authentically Chinese, serve on top of a 1/2 cup of cooked brown rice for an additional 2-3 points a serving. Once you learn to cook this takeout classic, you'll never order Chinese takeout again.

Multigrain Penne Pasta Salad with Zucchini, Cherry Tomatoes, & Fresh Mozzarella

Ingredients:

• 6 oz. whole wheat penne pasta (2 cups cooked)
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp. garlic, sliced thin
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 2 cups zucchini, cut in quarters lengthwise, sliced 1/4-inch thick
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 1 tbsp. capers
• 1 tbsp. basil, chopped
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, cut in 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 tsp. lemon zest
• 1 tsp. lemon juice
• salt
• freshly ground black pepper

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

1. Bring 6 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 2 tablespoons salt; bring back to a boil. Add pasta; cook for 10 minutes, or follow the directions on the pasta package. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain pasta in a colander. Spread on a baking sheet to cool.
2. While the pasta is cooking, cook oil and garlic over low heat in a large saute pan until garlic is translucent. Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
3. Return saute pan to high heat and add zucchini. Saute until crisp and slightly brown. Add tomatoes, capers, basil, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta and 1/4 to 1/2 cup pasta water to zucchini mixture; toss. Add mozzarella, lemon zest and juice, and toss to warm mozzarella through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately.

WW POINTS VALUE: 5 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the New Sonoma Cookbook. This is a great meal whenever you're craving comfort food and it's good for you. You don't always have to eat pasta with alfredo or marina sauce. The zucchini and the tomatoes will fil you up and you won't miss the sauce. It's great for lunch or dinner during the cold winter months.

Beef, Blue Cheese & Spinach Quesadillas

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup cooked lean ground beef
• 3 tbsp. taco sauce
• 4 large whole-wheat tortillas
• 4 oz. blue cheese, crumbled
• 10 oz. chopped frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

Makes 8 Servings (2 wedges per serving)

1. In a small bowl, stir together beef and taco sauce.
2. Lay 2 tortillas on a flat surface and divide beef mixture between them. Sprinkle each tortilla with half of the cheese, spinach, and red pepper flakes; top each with remaining tortilla.
3. Set a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Place one quesadilla in skillet and cook until brown spots form on bottom of tortilla, about 3-4 minutes; flip and cook until brown spots form again, about 3-4 minutes. Remove quesadilla to a large cutting board and cover to keep warm; repeat with remaining quesadilla.
4. Cut each quesadilla into 8 wedges and serve.

WW POINTS VALUE: 3 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears on www.weightwatchers.com. Who does not love quesadillas? You can eat these treats when you're watching the big game, for lunch, a light dinner or as a heavy snack. If you don't have taco sauce on hand, use a combination of dark chili powder and ground cumin for an authentic Southwestern taste. You can also a little bit of chopped tomato to the quesadilla to add more flavor and fill you up. You can also use ground chicken or ground turkey in place of the beef and your quesadilla will be just as tasty. Don't forget to add chopped onions and garlic when you're cooking the beef/chicken, turkey to enhance the flavor.