Turkey Albondigas Soup with Spinach and Hominy

Turkey Albondigas Soup with Spinach and Hominy

adapted from Bon Appetit October 1994

Turkey Albondigas Soup with spinach is a nutritious, modern twist on the classic Mexican comfort food traditionally made with beef. This vibrant soup features tender, lean ground turkey meatballs (albondigas) seasoned with cilantro to provide a bright, spring-like flavor profile. The addition of fresh spinach at the very end of cooking adds a delicate texture and a boost of thyroid-supportive nutrients and iron while keeping the soup light and healthy.

Hominy is a type of corn that has undergone a specialized process called nixtamalization. It is a staple ingredient in Mexican and Southern American cuisines, known for its distinctive puffy texture and earthy, nutty flavor.

Makes 2 servings

1/3 lb ground turkey
4 tsp. panko breadcrumbs
1/3 egg
1/2 tsp.dried oregano
1 Tbsp. olive oil
2 2/3 cups Homemade chicken stock or canned broth
1/2 15-ounce can hominy, rinsed and drained
1/3 8-ounce can tomato sauce
1 carrot, peeled, thinly sliced
1/3 onion, finely chopped
1/3 4-ounce can diced green chilies
2 1/2 ounces coarsely chopped fresh spinach leaves
2 Tbsp.fresh cilantro, chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

1. Combine the turkey, panko, egg and oregano in a bowl.
2. Using a 1 Tbsp. scoop, shape turkey mixture into one-inch meatballs.
3. Heat the oil in a skillet; brown the meatballs
4. Bring broth to simmer in pot over high heat; Add meatballs and brown 2-3 minutes to set shape then remove to a plate.
5. Add the stock to the pot and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits sticking to the bottom.
6. Add hominy, tomato sauce, carrots, onion and chilies; Return to a simmer.
7. Add the meatballs and continue simmering until meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.
8. Add spinach and cilantro to soup and simmer until wilted, about 2 minutes.
9. Season to taste with salt and pepper prior to serving.

Enjoy!

Creamy Udon Noodles with Umami Butter

Creamy Udon Noodles with Umami Butter

Adapted from Food & Wine

Experience the ultimate savory comfort with this Creamy Udon with Umami Butter, a dish that strikes a perfect balance between a silky Italian carbonara and a rich Japanese miso ramen.

Shichimi togarashi is a popular Japanese spice blend meaning "seven-flavor chili," typically containing seven ingredients like red chili pepper, sansho pepper, sesame seeds, orange peel, ginger, and seaweed (nori).

Makes 2 servings

2 Tbsp. butter, divided
1 1/2 anchovy fillets, divided

2 1/2 tsp. anchovy oil from the anchovy can or jar
1/4 cup panko
1/2 lb. fresh or frozen udon noodles
1 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 1/2 tsp. white miso
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated, plus more for garnish
1/16 tsp. shichimi togarashi, plus more for garnish
1 large egg yolk
2 Tbsp. + 2 tsp. thinly sliced scallions (about 1 scallion), plus more for garnish
Fresh grated truffles, grated (optional)

1. Melt 1 tsp. butter in a skillet. 
2. Add the anchovy oil and 1/2 anchovy fillet and cook, stirring constantly, until anchovies dissolve, about 1 minute. 
3. Add panko, and cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown, about 3 minutes. 
4. Transfer panko mixture to a small bowl; set aside. 
5. Wipe skillet clean.
6. Bring a pot of water to a boil. 
7. Add noodles, and cook according to package directions until tender yet chewy.
8. Drain the pasta retaining at least 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and cover to keep warm.
9. Melt remaining butter in skillet over medium; Add garlic and remaining anchovy fillet and cook, stirring often, until anchovies dissolve, about 2 minutes. 
10. Whisk together miso and 2 Tbsp. reserved cooking liquid until smooth; Stir into butter mixture. 
11. Add cooked noodles, cheese, and togarashi;Stir vigorously until sauce is smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
12. Place egg yolk in a small bowl, and whisk until smooth; While whisking, gradually add 2 Tbsp. reserved cooking liquid to temper yolks. 
13. Remove skillet from heat, and gradually stir in half of the egg yolk mixture. (Store the remaining half of the yolk mixture and egg white in the refrigerator to be added to additional eggs for breakfast.)
14. Return skillet to heat over medium, and add scallions; Cook, stirring vigorously, until sauce thickens and clings to noodles, about 1 minute. 
15. If needed to thin sauce, stir in additional reserved cooking liquid 1 tablespoon at a time. 
16. Divide noodles among bowls; sprinkle with evenly divided panko mixture. 
17. Garnish with additional cheese, togarashi, and scallions before serving.

Enjoy!

Blender Bearnaise Sauce

Blender Bearnaise Sauce

adapted from Food Network

Makes about 1 cup

1 stick butter
2 Tbsp. white wine vinegar
1 large egg yolk
1/2 tsp. dried tarragon
1/2 shallot, minced
Kosher salt and white pepper

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until bubbling hot; Add the tarragon and allow it to hydrate for a minute. 
2. In a blender or small food processor, add the vinegar and egg yolk and blend for several seconds. 
3. Slowly add the butter to the yolk mixture to prevent the yolk from scrambling.
4. Add the  shallot and continue to blend. 
5. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.
6. Spoon over your food or serve it on the side.

Enjoy!

Ratatouille Shepherd's Pie

Ratatouille Shepherd's Pie

adapted from Food & Wine

This is a vegetarian version of the hearty, usually meaty Shepard's pie. The ratatouille is made with eggplant, zucchini, summer squash and tomatoes and then covered with rich mashed potatoes to make a filling meal.

You can lighten the meal (and point amount) by using skim milk to make the mashed potatoes and lessen the amount of butter.

Makes 2 servings                                                                11 WW pts / serving

about 1/2 lb. russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces
1 Tbsp. heavy cream
pinch of ground white pepper
2 1/2 Tbsp. butter, divided
1 tsp. Kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste
1 large egg yolks
1 1/2 tsp. olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion, red or yellow
1 Tbsp. minced garlic, about 1-2 cloves
1/4 large eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 1 cups)
1/2 medium summer squash, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 1 cups)
1/2 medium zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 1 cups)

1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
2 Tbsp. (1 ounces) dry white wine
1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp. can diced tomatoes, drained
3/4 tsp. balsamic vinegar
few grinds of freshly black pepper, plus more for garnish

1. Place potatoes in a pot with enough water to cover. 
2. Bring the pot to a boil over high; reduce heat to medium, and cook until potatoes are cooked through, about 20 minutes. Drain potatoes, and let cool slightly.
3. Meanwhile, heat cream, white pepper, and butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until butter is melted, 1 to 2 minutes; set aside.
4. Put the potatoes through a ricer into a bowl; Add the cream mixture and 1/4 tsp. salt; Stir to combine.
5. Set aside until potatoes are just warm to the touch, about 5 minutes. 
6. Stir in egg yolks, and whisk until incorporated. Set aside at room temperature.
7. Preheat oven to 400°F. 
8. Cook the onions, garlic, and 1/4 tsp. salt in the oil in a high sided skillet;stirring often, until onion is softened, about 2 minutes. 
9. Add the eggplant; cook, stirring occasionally, until eggplant is browned in spots, about 5 minutes.
10. Stir in yellow squash, zucchini, Italian seasoning and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften, about 6 minutes.
11. Increase heat to medium-high. Add wine; Cook, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from bottom of skillet, until most of the liquid is evaporated, about 3 minutes. 
12. Add the tomatoes, vinegar, and black pepper; cook, stirring often, until vegetables are well coated, about 2 minutes; Divide the vegetable mixture between 2 oven safe containers.
13. Top vegetable mixture evenly with mashed potatoes; drag a fork through potatoes to create a swooped pattern, if desired. 
14. Bake until heated through and potatoes are browned in spots, about 35 minutes. 
15. Garnish with additional black pepper, and serve.

Enjoy!

Egg, Ham and Cheese Bagel Sandwich with Creamy Sriracha Sauce

Egg, Ham and Cheese Bagel Sandwich with Creamy Sriracha Sauce

adapted from Grilled Cheese Social

We have always liked hot sauce on your egg sandwiches but never thought of mayo.  The Creamy Sriracha Sauce is a Sriracha Mayo. Yum!

Makes 2 servings

2 Everything Bagels, split and toasted
1 Tbsp. butter
2 large eggs

2 slices deli ham
1 slice cheddar cheese
1 slice American Cheese
1 mini avocado
1 Tbsp. Creamy Sriracha Sauce
Kosher salt and Freshly ground black pepper to taste

1. Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
2. Once melted, add the eggs and sprinkle them with a pinch of kosher salt. 
3. When the edges are done and the inner white is starting to turn opaque, flip them and turn the heat down to low.
4. Place one slice of deli ham on top of each egg then top the ham with one slice of each of the cheeses
5. Add the ham to the other side of the skillet to warm it up and slightly brown it.
6. Cover the pan and cook until the cheese melts.
7. Smear half of the avocado on the bottom of each bagel; Season lightly with salt and pepper.
8. Transfer the ham and egg stack to the bottom of each toasted bagel.
9. Smear the top half of the bagel with the creamy spicy sriracha sauce and close up the sandwich.
10. Serve immediately with additional sriracha sauce on the side of dunking if desired.

Enjoy!

Pumpkin Ginger Dog Biscuits

Pumpkin Ginger Dog Biscuits

adapted from Taste of Home

Do I have a dog? No. But I have neighbors with dogs both big (Boxers) and little (Pekinese, and Shih tzu). The big dogs like hard biscuits and the little ones do not so I had to figure out a way to please everyone.

Makes about 24 3-inch biscuits

3 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 cup pumpkin
1 large egg, room temperature, beaten
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup water, plus more as needed

1. Preheat oven to 275°. 
2. In the bowl of a mixer, combine the flour, ginger pumpkin, egg, coconut oil. and water.
3. Mix until crumbly. 
4. Slowly add additional water 1 tablespoon at a time until dough comes together but is not sticky. ( I needed close to an addition 1/4 cup)
5. On a floured surface, roll dough to 1/4-in. thickness. 
6. Cut with a 3-in.bone shaped cookie cutter; Transfer to a parchment lined cooking sheet.
7. With a fork, shape, press holes in the center of the biscuit.
8. For hard biscuits, bake until bottoms are lightly browned (tops may crack) and treats feel firm when pressed, about 2 hours. 
9. For semi-firm biscuits (preferred by my little friends, bake for about  1 1/2-1 3/4 hours until lightly browned on the bottom but still slightly soft.
10. Cool on a wire rack. 
11. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy!

Eggs-in-a-Hole Benedict with Roasted Garlic and Tomato Hollandaise

Eggs in a Hole Benedict with Roasted Garlic and Tomato Hollandaise

adapted from Food Network

A fusion of eggs benedict and toad in a hole with a savory hollandaise sauce.

The bottom of an English muffin is the larger half, usually with cornmeal stuck to it

This is a knife and fork breakfast sandwich fo sure. Alternatively, you could put the hollandaise sauce on the egg to be better able to eat with your hands.

Makes 2 servings

2 plum tomatoes, halved and seeded
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1 Tbsp. + 1 tsp. olive oil, divided

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 large egg yolks
1 Tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
8 Tbsp. butter, melted
1 ham steak or  2 slices Canadian bacon
2 English muffins, split, cut 2 inch hole out of the bottom of each with a cookie cutter
1 1/2 Tbsp.butter
2 large eggs

1. Preheat the oven to 375F.
2. Cut 2 a circle the size of an English muffin with a round cookie cutter then butterfly it into 2 pieces; Set aside and reserve excess ham for another use.
3. Toss the tomatoes and garlic with 1 Tbsp. oil on a small baking sheet and season with salt and pepper; Roast until the tomatoes and garlic are soft and the liquid has evaporated, about 30 minutes; Set aside to cook slightly.
4. Reduce the oven temperature to 200F.
5. Combine the egg yolks and lemon juice in a small food processor and blend until smooth. 
6. Slowly add the melted butter and continue blending until emulsified; Add the tomato-garlic mixture and blend until smooth.
7. Transfer the hollandaise to a small bowl and keep warm over a water bath,whisking occasionally.
8. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tsp. oil, add the ham and cook, turning once, until heated through and lightly browned, about 2 minutes per side. 
9. Remove to a small plate and keep warm in the preheated oven; Retain the fat in the pan.
10. Melt the butter in the skillet until foaming and add the muffin halves cut-side down. 
11. Crack an egg into each hole and cook undisturbed until the bottoms are golden brown, about 3 minutes.
12. Using a flat spatula, flip the muffins and cook until the second side is golden brown, about 2 minutes for runny yolks. 
13. Put the ham on top of the muffin half with the egg and place the muffin top on top of the ham.
14. Transfer the sandwiches to plates and top 1-2 Tbsp. of the warm hollandaise on top of each sandwich.

Enjoy!

Asian Wedding Soup

Asian Wedding Soup

adapted from Food Network

One of my favorite soups is Italian Wedding Soup. This recipe puts an Asian twist on it with the flavors of dumpling filling and ramen noodles.

If you are not going to be eating the soup shortly after it is cooked, cook the ramen separately and store in a separate container. This prevents the noodles from over absorbing the broth and becoming soggy.

Reminder: If a recipe calls for chopped fresh herbs, measure the herbs AFTER you chop them' if herbs, chopped measure before chopping.

Makes 2 servings                                                                  8 WW pts / serving

1/2 lb. ground lean turkey

1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh cilantro

1 1/2 tsp. soy sauce

1/2 large beaten egg

1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 tsp. sugar substitute
1/8 tsp. Kosher salt
1 clove garlic, grated
1 scallion, thinly sliced
Cooking spray

Cooking spray
3 scallions, thinly sliced, white and green parts separated
Pinch of Kosher salt
1 1/2 tsp. minced ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
5 cups Homemade chicken stock or canned chicken broth

1 3 oz. package dried ramen noodles. broken up

1 cup sliced spinach

Sambal oelek or your preferred Asian chili sauce, for serving

1. In a bowl, mix the turkey, cilantro, soy sauce, egg, panko, sugar substitute, salt, garlic and scallions together. 
2. Scoop the meatball mixture into 12 small balls and roll. 
3. In a pan coated with cooking spray or in a slow cooker with a searing function (coat the bottom of the insert with cooking spray), cook the meatballs until cooked through , about 4-6 minutes, tuning to brown on all sides. 
4. Remove the meatballs to a plate and store in the refrigerator until the soup base is made.
5. Recoat the pan or slow cooker insert with cooking spray; Sauté the scallion whites with  a pinch of salt and cook for a couple of minutes until softened.
6. Add the ginger and garlic and cook until fragrant, about another minute. 
7. Add the stock, cover and and cook on high for, 2 hours. If using a traditional slow cooker combine the sautéed scallion mixture and the both to the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 hours.
8. Open the slow cooker and set to sauté; Once it is boiling, add the ramen, spinach and meatballs and cook cook for another 3 minutes until the noodles and spinach are soft and the meatballs are heated through.  If using traditional slow cooker, transfer the both to a pot, bring to a boil; Add ramen, spinach and meatballs and cook for about 3 minutes.
9. Adjust seasoning as needed. 
10. Add the scallion greens and serve with sambal oelek.

Enjoy!

Warm Asparagus Salad

Warm Asparagus Salad

adapted from Taste of Home

Who doesn't love bacon and eggs? Adding them to a warm salad with a light vinaigrette just makes them better.

Makes 2 servings                                                                  3 WW pts / serving

2 turkey bacon strips, cooked & chopped
1/2 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch-pieces
1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 1/2 tsp. avocado oil or olive oil

1 1/2 tsp. water
1 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
Pinch of sugar substitute
Pinch Kosher salt
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes

3 cups torn romaine lettuce leaves
2 hard-boiled large eggs, halved
2 ounces fat free feta cheese, crumbled

1. Bring 2 inches of water in a saucepan to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Place the asparagus in a steamer basket; Place the basket in the pot with the boiling water, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer until crisp-tender, 3-5 minutes. 
3. Meanwhile, in a small bowl whisk together vinegar, oil, water, mustard, garlic powder, sugar, salt and red pepper flakes. 
4. Divide the lettuce and asparagus between 2 plates.
5. Top with dressing, bacon and feta.
6. Place 2 egg halves on each plate prior to serving.

Enjoy!

Lean Mean Turkey Loaf Muffins

Lean Mean Turkey Loaf Muffins

adapted from There's a Chef in My Soup! by Emeril Lagasse

Turning meatloaf into muffins gives everyone an end piece.

served with Roasted Carrots and Fingerling Potatoes

Makes 2 servings                                                                  3 WW pts / serving

3/4 lb. lean ground turkey
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
2 Tbsp. chopped celery
2 Tbsp. chopped bell pepper
1/2 beaten large egg
2 Tbsp. ketchup
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. Creole seasoning such as Emeril's Essence
1/4 tsp. Kosher salt
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 375F.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, onion, bread crumbs, celery, bell pepper, egg, ketchup, garlic, creole seasoning, salt, and pepper until well incorporated.
3. Using an ice cream scoop place balls of the the turkey mixture into the wells of a muffin tin. You should have 4.
4. Bake in the preheated oven until brown on top and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reaches 165 degrees F, about 25 minutes.
5. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

Pork Dumpling Baked Tomatoes

Pork Dumpling Baked Tomatoes

adapted from Bon Appetit

The tomatoes are stuffed with a gingery pork mixture that tastes similar to the filling in potstickers or gyoza. Don't skip the chili crisp mixture. It makes the dish.

If you have a grapefruit spoon, one with a serrated edge, makes it much easier to scoop out the tomatoes.

Chili crisp is a condiment made from fried chili peppers and other aromatics infused in oil, often with added crunchy bits such as  fried garlic or shallotsand is known for its combination of heat, umami, and satisfying crunch. I have tried a couple of different brands and prefer the Fly By Jin brand™.

Makes 2 servings                                                                2 WW pts. / serving

2 large beefsteak tomatoes
pinch of Kosher salt
1/2 large, beaten egg
1 1/2 tsp. grated ginger
1 garlic clove, finely grated
1/4 lb. lean ground pork
1/3 cup panko
1 tsp. olive oil
1 scallion, thinly sliced
1 1/2 Tbsp. soy sauce, divided
1 tsp. chili crisp
1 tsp. unseasoned rice vinegar
1/3 tsp. toasted sesame oil

1. Preheat  an oven to 400°. 
2. Using a serrated knife, slice tops off the tomatoes; Reserve tops. 
3. Scoop cores with seeds and pulp out of tomatoes and place in a small bowl; Discard fibrous cores, reserving the seedy pulp. 
4. Season inside of each tomato with kosher salt; Arrange in a small baking dish.
5. Combine the egg, ginger, garlic, ground pork, olive oil, scallions, 1/2 Tbsp, soy sauce, salt, and 2 Tbsp. + 2 tsp. tomato pulp in a large bowl. 
6. Using your hands, gently mix to combine, then stuff each tomato with filling. Set reserved tops over the filling.
7. Bake stuffed tomatoes in the preheated oven until pork is tender and cooked through (an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should register at least 160°), about 45 minutes.
8. Meanwhile, mix the chili crisp, rice vinegar, 1 tsp. toasted sesame oil, and remaining 1 Tbsp. soy sauce in a small bowl. Set sauce aside.
9. Serve baked tomatoes drizzled with the chili crisp mixture.

Enjoy!

Five Herb Frittata with Prosciutto and Parmesan

Five Herb Frittata with Prosciutto and Parmesan

adapted from Food & Wine

Whether you prefer your eggs creamy (like me) or drier (overcooked - like my husband), this stove top frittata is herby and delicious.

Makes 2 servings                                                                 2 WW pts  / serving

4 large eggs
2 tsp. water
1 Tbsp. mint, finely chopped
1 Tbsp. parsley, finely chopped
1 Tbsp. scallions greens or chives, finely chopped
1/2 tsp. oregano, finely chopped
1 tsp. thyme, finely chopped
Cooking spray
½ ounce prosciutto (2 slices torn)
Parmesan cheese shavings, for serving

1. In a bowl, beat the eggs with the water. 
2. Beat in the mint, parsley, chives, oregano and thyme.
3. In a skillet  coated with cooking spray, cook the egg mixture over moderately low heat, without stirring, until just beginning to set at the edge, about 3 minutes. 
4. Using a spatula, lift the edge and tilt the pan so the egg mixture can seep underneath. 
5. Continue to cook, lifting the frittata and tilting the pan occasionally, until the frittata is just set and creamy on top, 3 to 5 minutes longer. 
6. Scatter the prosciutto over the frittata and slide it onto a plate. 
7. Garnish with shaved Parmesan and serve immediately.

Enjoy!

Japanese Shiso Leaf Meatballs

Japanese Shiso Leaf Meatballs

adapted from I Heart Umami

Shiso leaves, also known as perilla, are quite common in Japanese and Korean cuisines. They have a unique, leaves have complex flavor that is frequently described as a blend of mint, basil, and anise with hints of cinnamon and citrus. The complex flavor pairs well with meat and seafood.The turkey in this recipe can be replaced with veal, chicken or even pork.

When forming meatballs, I like to use ice cream scoops. They provide a consistent size. I used the 1 Tbsp. scooper. Another tip is to oil your hands and the scoop with olive oil or cooking spray. This is a very soft mixture that likes to stick to things.

served over Grilled Zucchini Bulgur Pilaf

Makes 2 servings                                                             0 WW pts / serving

1/2 lb. ground lean ground turkey
1 Tbsp. soy sauce
1/2 tsp. Kosher salt
1/2 tsp. grated ginger
1/2 tsp. minced garlic
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 beaten egg
1 tsp. arrowroot or cornstarch
12 small shiso leaves

Cooking spray

1. Combine ground with the rest of ingredients except the shiso leaves and cooking spray.
2. If time permits, place the mixture in the refrigerator for about 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and firm up a little.  
3. Shape 1 Tbsp. of the turkey mixture into a meatball; Slightly flatten the meatballs and place one shiso leaf per meatball, press gently make sure it does not fall off.
4. If time permits, refrigerate the balls again to allow the leaf to fully adhere to the meatball.
5. Preheat a skillet coated with cooking spray. 
6. Place the  meatballs non-shiso-leaf-side down and pan fry until the bottom is golden brown over medium-high heat, about 4-5 minutes. 
7. Gently turn the meatball to allow it to fry the other side, about 2-3 minutes. 
8. Turn the meatball back again and cook until the meat is cooked through. about 1 to 2 minutes.
9. Serve hot !

Enjoy!

Pork Meatball Chili

Pork Meatball Chili

adapted from Food Network Magazine March 2019

This recipe is essentially using a vegetable chili as a sauce for pork meatballs that use tortilla chips as a binder. The cream in the meatballs keep them very tender and moist.

Mexican oregano has a strong, citrusy, and slightly licorice-like flavor, while Italian oregano (also known as regular or Mediterranean oregano) is more earthy, floral, and minty with a milder taste.

Makes 2 servings                                        3 WW pts / serving without garnishes

1/2 lbs. lean ground pork
2 Tbsp. + 2 tsp. light cream
2 Tbsp. crushed tortilla chips
1 Tbsp. grated Cojita or Parmesan cheese
1/2 beaten egg
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. Kosher salt

Cooking spray
1/4 large onion, chopped
1/4 red, orange or yellow bell pepper, chopped

1 small clove of garlic, chopped  
1 1/2 tsp. tomato paste
1 Tbsp.chili powder
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. dried Mexican oregano

1/4 tsp. Penzeys Southwest Seasoning™

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 15-ounce cans kidney beans (do not drain)
3/4 14-ounce cans diced tomatoes

1/4 cup water + more for thinning if needed

1/2 tsp. dried cilantro

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Jalapeno peppers, reduced fat sour cream, reduced fat cheddar cheese, cilantro & /or scallions (optional)

1. Make the meatballs by mixing the pork, cream, tortilla chips, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder and kosher salt. 
2. Form into 1-inch balls; If time refrigerate for an hour.
3. Meanwhile, heat a pot coated with cooking spray over medium heat and cook the onion and pepper cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes; Add the garlic and cook  a couple more minutes.
4. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, coriander and oregano; Cook, stirring, until brick red, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the beans, tomatoes, 1/4 cup water and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a simmer and cook, adjusting the heat as needed and stirring occasionally, until thickened, and the flavors meld, about 60 minutes, adding additional water if it is getting too thick.
6. Preheat the broiler.
7. Remove the meatballs from the refrigerator; Broil the meatballs on a baking sheet until browned, 5 to 7 minutes.
8. Add the meatballs to the finished chili and simmer 10 more minutes; Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper
9. Garnish as desired prior to serving, if using.

Enjoy!

Crispy Pork Milanese

Crispy Pork Milanese

adapted from Food & Wine^© August 2007

The mix of panko and Parmesan cheese in the breading here gets crunchy when pan-fried.

Makes 2 servings                                                                12 WW pts / serving

2 center cut pork chops, pounded 1/4 inch thick
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1/3 cup panko 
2 Tbsp. + 2 tsp freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
pinch dried oregano, crumbled
pinch freshly grated nutmeg
2 Tbsp. + 2 Tsp. rice flour or all-purpose flour
1 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup vegetable oil
Lemon wedges, for serving

1. Season the cutlets with salt and pepper. 
2. Set up a 3 stage breading station with the panko, cheese, oregano and nutmeg in one bowl, flour in a second bowl and egg in a third.
3. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and place rack over the top.
4. Dredge the cutlets in the flour,tapping off the excess, then dip them in the eggs, allowing any excess to drip off; Finally, coat the cutlets with the panko mixture, pressing to help the crumbs adhere.
5. In each of 2 large skillets, heat 1/2 inch of olive oil until shimmering. 
6. Add the cutlets to the skillets and fry over high heat, turning once, until crisp, golden brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes total. 
7. Drain the pork on rack over the paper towel lined rack.paper towels,
8. Serve with lemon wedges.

Enjoy!

Zucchini Feta Tots with Minty Yogurt Dip

Zucchini Feta Tots with Minty Yogurt Dip

adapted from Recipeineats

These tasty little bites are a great way to use the bounty of summer zucchini. Traditionally these tots or fritter are deep or pan fried but these are baked in a convection oven to make them healthier.

No convection oven? An air fryer will work. You can also cook them in a conventional oven at 400F but you might need to cook them longer.

Makes 9 tots                                                                            2 WW pts/ piece

1/3 lb. zucchini, shredded
3 pinches kosher salt, divided
2 2/3 Tbsp. rice flour 
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs 
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup scallions, finely chopped
2 2/3 Tbsp. shredded parmesan cheese

1 tsp. dried oregano 
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 2/3 oz feta cheese , crumbled
Cooking spray
Lemon wedges and fresh oregano leaves , optional garnishes
1/4 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt 
1 tsp. fresh mint , finely chopped
1/2 tsp. lemon juice
1/2 tsp olive oil
Few grinds  of black pepper

1. Preheat convection oven to 390°F
2. Place the shredded zucchini mixed with a pinch of pepper in a colander; Let sweat for 30 minutes.
3. Place the drained zucchini in a towel and twist to remove excess water; Place the it in a bowl.
4. Add the rice flour, panko, egg, scallions, parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic, and a pinch of salt to the zucchini; Mix well to combine. 
5. Add the feta and gently stir through.
6. Line a baking sheet with foil and coat with cooking spray
7. Form the tots using a tablespoon of zucchini mixture and place on prepared pan.–
8. coat the tots generously with cooking spray. 
9. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and a crunchy crust forms on the surface. 
10. While the tots are baking, make the mint by combining the yogurt, mint, lemon juice, olive oil, remaining salt and pepper.
11. Garnish with fresh oregano leaves, if using, and serve with minty yogurt and lemon wedges.

Enjoy! 

Tomato Scallion Parmesan Mini Quiches

Tomato Scallion Parmesan Mini Quiches

adapted from Eating Well

A fun play on a crustless quiche which comes together quickly. Trade out any leftover vegetables you have in the refrigerator.

Makes 1 serving                                                                1 WW pt. / serving

Cooking spray
1 slice deli cooked ham, cut in half
2 slices roma tomatoes, chopped
1/3 scallion, thinly chopped
1 leaf basil, chopped
a few grinds freshly cracked black pepper
2 tsp. finely shredded Parmesan cheese
1 large eggs, lightly beaten

1. Preheat oven to 350F. 
2. Coat 2  standard muffin cups with cooking spray.; Add water to the remaining cups to prevent scorching.
3. Line prepared muffin cups with ham. 
4. Divide tomatoes, green onions, basil and pepper among cups. 
5. Top with cheese. 
6. Pour eggs over tomato mixture.
7. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until puffed and a tester comes out clean; Cool in cups 5 minutes. 
8. Serve warm.

Enjoy!

Sichuan Beef Tenderloin

Sichuan Beef Tenderloin

adapted from Food Network

You can adjust the heat of the dish by removing some of the chiles or by leaving the seeds in the chiles.

If the sauce gets too thick while it is resting, thin it out to your liking with a little water.

Makes 3 servings                                                            6 WW pts / serving

2 tsp. corn starch
2 tsp. egg whites
2 tsp.Chinese cooking wine or white wine
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. Freshly ground black pepper
Pinch Kosher salt
10 ounces beef tenderloin, cut into 3/4-inch cubes

2 Tbp. soy sauce
2 Tbsp. sugar substitute
2 Tbsp. Chinese black vinegar

2 Tbsp. water
2 tsp.corn starch

5 ounces vegetable oil
6 pieces dried chile de arbol, stems & seeds removed, 1/4-inch dice
2 tsp. scallions, white and light green parts, chopped
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp grated ginger
1 cup steamed broccoli

1 1/2 cups cooked white rice for serving

Chopped scallion greens for garnish.

1. Combine the corn starch, egg whites, wine, garlic, garlic powder, pepper and salt in a bowl; Whisk together. 
2. Add in the cubed beef; Set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.
3. In a small saucepan bring the soy sauce, sugar and vinegar to a boil. 
4. Combine water and the corn starch in a small bowl to make a slurry; Stir into the sauce.
5. Cook the mixture for 1 minute; Remove from the heat and set aside.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a wok until just hot (a drop of water will sizzle); Pour rhe oil into a heat proof container and reserve.
7. Return the pan to the heat and cook the marinated beef  until seared on both sides.; Remove the beef from the pan; Set aside.
8. Add 2 teaspoons of the reserved oil to the pan; Add the dried chiles and saute for 30 seconds
9. Add in the onions, garlic and ginger, and saute until the onions are lightly wilted and the garlic and ginger are slightly caramelized, about 1 minute.
10. Return the beef to the pan, and add the broccoli and sauce.
11. Serve over the rice garnished with scallions.

Enjoy!

Herbed Spaetzle

Herbed Spaetzle

adapted from Food Network Magazine October 2012

Spaetzle is a type of dumpling originating from the Swabian region of southwestern Germany

Many people make the spaetzle by pushing the dough through a colander. I found a spaetzle maker which makes it much easier.

Makes 4 servings                                                                6 WW pts / 1/2 cup

3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. Kosher salt  
Few grind of freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup seltzer
3/4 large beaten egg
4 tsp chopped fresh parsley
3/4 tsp whole-grain mustard
1 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
1 Tbsp. unsalted butter

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a bare simmer. 
2. In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper and the nutmeg. 
3. In another bowl, whisk the sour cream, seltzer, eggs, herbs together; Add it to the flour mixture and mix to combine.
4. Create an ice bath.
5. Working over the simmering water, place about dough in the basket of the spaetzle maker and slide it back and forth to transfer the dough to the water.
6. Cook the spaetzle for 1 minute after they float to the surface; Remove with a slotted spoon to the ice water. 
7. Repeat with the remaining dough. 
8. Drain the spaetzle, spread out on a baking sheet and pat dry with paper towels; Toss with 1 tsp. olive oil.
9. Heat butter and 2 tsp. olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. 
10. Increase the heat to high and add the spaetzle in an even layer; Cook, undisturbed, until golden brown on the bottom, about 5 minutes. 
11. Shake the pan and loosen the spaetzle with a spatula; continue cooking until heated through, about 1 more minute.
12. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 

Enjoy!

Asian Meatballs

Asian Meatballs

adapted from Food & Wine May 2000

Soy paste is a thick sweetened soy sauce also known as ketjap manis. Don't have either you can make it at home.

White pepper is frequently used in Asian cooking because of it has a muskier and sharper taste profile than its black counterpart. Don't have it you can use black pepper, pink peppercorns, green peppercorns or paprika.

served on Hibachi Noodles

Makes 6 meatballs                                                              1 WW pts / meatball

Cooking spray
1 tsp. olive oil
1 1/2 Tbsp. thinly sliced scallions
1 1/2 tsp. minced shallots
3/4 tsp. teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 tsp. finely grated peeled fresh ginger
1/2 lb. lean ground pork
1/2 large egg, lightly beaten
1 1/2 tsp. soy paste
1 1/2 tsp. minced cilantro
1 1/2 tsp. minced basil
1 1/2 tsp. minced mint
1/2 tsp. Kosher salt
pinch freshly ground white pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 400°. 
2. Line a baking sheet with foil; COat with cooking spray.
3. Heat the oil in a small skillet. 
4. Add the scallions, shallots, garlic and ginger and cook, stirring, until softened, about 4 minutes. 
5. Place the mixture into a medium bowl and let cool.
6. Add the ground pork, egg, soy paste, cilantro, basil, mint, salt and white pepper to the bowl.
7. Mix the mixture gently but thoroughly.
8. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and roll into balls.
9. Transfer the meatballs to the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 16 minutes, or until browned; Serve immediately.

Enjoy!