Fideo Loco

Another one, I made. It was pretty easy, and very flavorful.

Fideo Loco

Photo by ALB

Servings 6
Author Lisa Fain, Homesick Texan

Ingredients
For the beef:
1 teaspoon safflower oil (didn't use)
1 pound ground beef (used 93%)
1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Pinch cayenne
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup chopped cilantro

For the fideo:
1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
2 chipotle chiles en adobo
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
5 cups water (used 4)
1 tablespoon safflower oil (used olive oil)
4 ounces thin noodles such as vermicelli or capellini, broken into 1-inch pieces
2 cups pinto beans or 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions
In a Dutch oven, heat the oil (didn't use) on medium-low and add the beef and onion. While occasionally stirring, cook until the onions are soft and the beef is beginning to brown, about 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, and cilantro and while stirring occasionally, continue to cook for 10 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings and then pour the beef into a mixing bowl.

Meanwhile, for the fideo, place in a blender the onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chipotle chiles en adobo, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Once you’ve moved the cooked meat from the pot, add the water to the pot and swirl around while scraping the bottom to get all the remaining bits. Add the water to the blender and then blend until smooth (4 Cups of water will make a mess in the blender, so I can't imagine 5).  Add the oil to the pot and pasta. While occasionally stirring, cook on medium for 1 minute or until lightly browned and fragrant. Pour the tomato sauce from the blender into the pot. While stirring occasionally, cook on medium until the pasta is softened, about 10 minutes.
Add the beans to the pot along with the cooked meat. Stir in the lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve warm topped with Cotija cheese and with tortillas on the side, if you like. (I added Queso Fresco, Cilantro, and Pico - not counted in the points)


6 WW Blue Points (my additions/subtractions at 6 servings)

Whole30 Chipotle Beef and Avocado Bowls

After we Un-Paleo-ed/Un-Whole30-ed this, it was really good.

Whole30 Chipotle Beef and Avocado Bowls (Sofritas Copycat, Paleo)

Photo by ALB

Course Main Course
Adapted from: 40Aprons
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
Smoky Sauce
1 poblano pepper
1/2 Tbsp. chipotle pepper powder
3 cloves garlic
3/4 cup tomato salsa
2 Tbsp. avocado oil (didn't use)
1/2 teaspoon salt

Whole30 Chipotle Beef and Avocado Bowls
16 ounces ground beef (used 96/4)
8 ounces baby Bella mushrooms minced
2 Cups cooked rice
2 limes juice of, divided
1 cup fresh cilantro chopped, plus more for garnish, if desired
4 coontainers of Wholly Guacamole Minis, Classic
1/2 cup minced red onion plus more for garnish, if desired
Tomato for garnish

Instructions
Roast the poblano pepper: Preheat the broiler then place poblano pepper on the oven rack about 4" from broiler element. Cook until blackened on top, then, with tongs, flip over. Broil until blackened. Continue rotating and broiling until blackened until all sides are blistered. Alternately, carefully hold the pepper with heat-proof tongs to a gas stove flame (or place on top of stove rack), rotating to blacken all sides. Set aside and let cool slightly.

Make the smoky sauce: When poblano pepper is cooled to the touch, peel off the blackened skin, remove stem, and seeds. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until very smooth.

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef, breaking up with a spatulate. Add in mushrooms and sauté until softened and liquid is evaporated just a few minutes. Stir in poblano-salsa sauce and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook a couple of minutes until bubbly and a bit thickened. Remove from heat.

Make the cilantro-lime rice: Stir together cooked rice, juice of 1 lime, about 2/3 cup cilantro, and plenty of salt.

Serve your Whole30 chipotle beef and avocado bowls: divide cilantro-lime rice among bowls, then top with beef mixture. Finish with a couple big, heaping spoonfuls of guacamole. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro, tomato and red onion, if desired.

9 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Skillet Shrimp Fajitas

We had this in July. It was good.

Skillet Shrimp Fajitas

Photo by ALB

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 27 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
From No.2 Pencil

Servings: 4

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds of shrimp peeled and deveined, tails removed patted dry
1 yellow bell pepper sliced thin
1 red bell pepper sliced thin
1 orange bell pepper sliced thin
1 small red onion sliced thin
1 1/2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil divided
1 teaspoon of kosher salt
several turns of freshly ground pepper
2 teaspoons of chili powder
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
lime
fresh cilantro for garnish
tortillas, warmed (not included in points)
Cheese and guacamole (not included in points)

Instructions
In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin and smoked paprika.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over high heat in a 12 inch cast iron pan.

Add onions and bell peppers and 1/2 of seasoning mixture. Cook for about five minutes, or until onions and bell peppers are tender.

Push onions and bell peppers to the side of the skillet to make room for the shrimp.

Add remaining olive oil to skillet, followed by shrimp and remaining seasoning mixture.

Saute shrimp until pink and cooked through.

Squeeze juice from one fresh lime over skillet and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve in warm tortillas.

2 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Machaca Beef Dip Sandwiches

D made this the other day because we found a bottom round on sale at Kroger. It was really good.

We had with fries.

Machaca Beef Dip Sandwiches

Photo by ALB

Adapted from Taste of Home
Total Time
Prep: 20 min. Cook: 8 hours

Makes 10 servings (3 oz of meat each)

Ingredients
1 boneless beef chuck roast (2 to 3 pounds)
1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) reduced-sodium beef broth
1/2 cup water
3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
1 tablespoon adobo sauce
1 envelope au jus gravy mix
1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
10 French rolls, split
Guacamole and salsa, optional (not in points calculation)

Directions
Place roast in a 3- to 4-qt. slow cooker; top with onion. Combine the broth, water, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, gravy mix, Creole seasoning, chili powder and cumin; pour over meat. Cover and cook on low until meat is tender, 8-10 hours.

Remove roast; cool slightly. Skim fat from cooking juices. Shred beef with 2 forks and return to slow cooker; heat through. Using a slotted spoon, place meat on rolls. Serve with guacamole or salsa if desired and the cooking juices.

Freeze option: Freeze individual portions of cooled meat mixture and juices in freezer containers. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally. Serve on rolls, with guacamole and salsa if desired.

Nutrition Facts 1 sandwich: 476 calories, 18g fat (6g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 1288mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 37g protein.

11 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 10 servings)

Warm Chipotle Lime Butternut Squash Salad

I don't know why I was had to have this recipe, but I did. Originally it called for Sweet Potatoes, but D doesn't care much for them, so we subbed in Butternut.

We both enjoyed it, and would have again. We had with Grilled Chipotle Marinated Chicken.

Warm Chipotle Lime Butternut Squash Salad

Photo by ALB

Adapted from the Real Food Dieticians
PREP TIME: 10 MINS
COOK TIME: 15 MINS
TOTAL TIME: 25 MINS
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS
Cooking Spray
1 pound butternut squash, cubed
1/2 small red onion, sliced
1 small bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups kale, roughly chopped (heaping cups)
4 slices bacon cooked and chopped
Chipotle Lime Mayo (recipe below)
Salt and black pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS 
Cook bacon and remove. After, add cubed butternut. Dash with a little sea salt and black pepper. Sauté for about 10-12 minutes stirring throughout. Butternut should be cooked through.

Then add diced pepper, sliced onion, and garlic. Sauté for another 10 minutes.

Then add kale and sauté for 2-3 minutes longer until kale is slightly wilted. Then add chopped bacon.

Transfer to a bowl (or leave in skillet) and gently stir Chipotle Lime Mayo (we served on top, there was more than plenty). Serve warm.

Leftovers can be served warm or cold for up to 5 days.

Garnish with fresh parsley and green onions, if desired.

Homemade Chipotle Lime Mayo recipe (mix all together):
7 TBSP cup Hellmans's Light mayo
1/2 lime, juiced
1 chipotle pepper minced

4 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Oven-Fried Beef Taquitos

D and I made these together.  They were really good, and you couldn't taste the zucchini at all.  Because of the amount of chili powder, I don't think you really needed the cheese either.

We had with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and Refried Pinto Beans with Chipotle.

Oven-Fried Beef Taquitos

Photo by ALB

This healthy beef taquitos recipe calls for baking instead of deep-frying, making the taquitos substantially healthier than what you'd get at a restaurant. One order of these little deep-fried, rolled-up tacos at a restaurant can set you back almost 1,000 calories and 60 grams of fat! Don't worry if some of the taquitos crack open while baking—they're still crispy and delicious. Serve with your favorite salsa, guacamole and reduced-fat sour cream.

By: EatingWell Test Kitchen
Servings: 4 servings
Serving size: 3 taquitos
Active: 40 m
Ready In: 40 m

Ingredients
1 medium zucchini
2 teaspoons canola oil (used Cooking Spray)
1 pound extra-lean ground beef (93%)
3 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
12 6-inch corn tortillas
Canola oil cooking spray
3/4 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Preparation
Preheat oven to 425°F. Shred zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Squeeze dry in a clean kitchen towel (you should have about 2 cups). Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini, beef, chili powder, onion powder, cumin and salt. Cook, stirring, until the beef is cooked through, 5 to 7 minutes.

Spread tortillas out on a baking sheet in two overlapping rows. Bake until hot, 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate and cover.

Coat the baking sheet with cooking spray. Place 6 tortillas on a clean cutting board. Working quickly, spread a generous ¼ cup beef mixture along the bottom third of a tortilla, sprinkle with about 1 tablespoon cheese and tightly roll into a cigar shape. Place the taquito seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, filling and cheese. Generously coat the top and sides of the taquitos with cooking spray.

Bake the taquitos until browned and crispy, 14 to 18 minutes.

Easy cleanup: Recipes that require cooking spray can leave behind a sticky residue that can be hard to clean. To save time and keep your baking sheet looking fresh, line it with a layer of foil before you apply the cooking spray.

Nutrition information
Per serving: 500 calories; 24 g fat(7 g sat); 7 g fiber; 40 g carbohydrates; 33 g protein; 28 mcg folate; 92 mg cholesterol; 2 g sugars; 0 g added sugars; 2,120 IU vitamin A; 9 mg vitamin C; 244 mg calcium; 5 mg iron; 691 mg sodium; 662 mg potassium Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin A (42% daily value), Iron (28% dv), Calcium (24% dv)

12 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Cilantro-Chicken Chilaquiles with Crumbled Queso Fresco

Pretty much anything with cilantro and queso is going to be good. This was no exception.  It was rather spicy because we accidentally bought jalapeno peppers and not chile peppers.  But still it was good.  We had no side.

Cilantro-Chicken Chilaquiles with Crumbled Queso Fresco

Photo by ALN

This Mexican-inspired chicken recipe is full of flavor and texture. Spicy salsa verde and green chile peppers, crunchy corn tortilla wedges and fresh grape tomatoes and cilantro—this meal is sure to please the whole family.

Adapted From Diabetic Living Magazine
Servings: 4
Serving size: 1 cup
Prep: 25 m
Ready In: 50 m

Ingredients
6 corn tortillas, cut into 6 wedges each
1 (7 ounce) can salsa verde
1 4-ounce can diced green chile peppers
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound shredded cooked chicken thighd
4 ounces queso fresco, crumbled (1 cup)
1/2 cup quartered grape tomatoes
1/2 bunch chopped fresh cilantro
1/3 cup finely chopped red onion (1 small)
1 medium lime, cut into wedges
1/4 cup light sour cream

Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, if desired. Arrange tortilla wedges in a single layer on the large baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until beginning to lightly brown. Cool on the baking sheet on a wire rack for 10 minutes. (They will harden during cooling.)

Place the cooled tortilla wedges in a medium nonstick skillet. In a medium bowl, stir together salsa verde, chile peppers, water and olive oil. Pour salsa verde mixture evenly over tortilla wedges. Top with chicken. Bring to boiling over medium-high heat; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, about 3 minutes or until tortilla wedges are slightly softened.

Remove from heat. Sprinkle with cheese, tomatoes, cilantro and red onion. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes to allow flavors to absorb and the cheese to melt slightly.

Serve with lime wedges and if desired, sour cream.

Nutrition information 
Per serving: 246 calories; 9 g fat(2 g sat); 5 g fiber; 27 g carbohydrates; 18 g protein; 25 mcg folate; 39 mg cholesterol; 4 g sugars; 1,078 IU vitamin A; 27 mg vitamin C; 176 mg calcium; 2 mg iron; 435 mg sodium; 326 mg potassium

9 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Chicken Enchiladas Verdes

D and I were planning our weekly menu, and I showed him this recipe.  He decided that we would have it that night.   After some hassles of finding cilantro and green salsa (Kroger, I'm looking at you, per usual), we had all the ingredients.  We used 1lb+ of chicken breast. Our pan was small, so we made one batch (I helped roll the enchiladas), ate, and then made the rest.

We both liked it, and because it was originally 6 servings and we made it 4, the servings were big.  We had with Refried Pinto Beans.

Chicken Enchiladas Verdes

Photo by ALB

This easy, creamy chicken enchilada recipe uses premade green salsa for a quick enchilada sauce. Not in a verde mood? Use tomato salsa instead.

Prep:  20 m
Ready In: 45 m
4 servings

Ingredients
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted chicken broth, divided
2 cups tomatillo salsa
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
1 (15 ounce) can no-salt-added black beans, rinsed
3 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
12 (5 inch) corn tortillas
1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/2 cup chopped tomato
6 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream

Preparation
Preheat oven to 425°F.

Whisk flour and 1/2 cup broth in a small bowl. Combine the remaining 1/2 cup broth, salsa and cumin in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and whisk in the flour mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 2½ cups, 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in 1/4 cup cilantro.

Spread 1/2 cup of the salsa mixture in a 9-by-13-inch ovenproof baking dish. Combine chicken, beans, cream cheese and 1/2 cup of the salsa mixture in a large bowl. Spoon 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla and roll it up into a cigar shape. Arrange, seam-side down, in a single layer over the salsa mixture in the baking dish. Top the enchiladas with the remaining salsa mixture. (I only got 6 enchiladas in the pan.  So we made those, ate, and then made the remaining 6).

Bake until bubbling, about 15 minutes.

Remove from oven; increase oven temperature to broil. Sprinkle the enchiladas with cheese. Broil 8 inches from the heat source until the cheese is melted, 2 to 3 minutes. Top with tomato and the remaining 1/4 cup cilantro and serve with sour cream.

EatingWell Magazine, January/February 2019 1

11 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Guacamole Chicken Melt

This is one of those "duh" recipes that we never thought of making, but saw this, had the ingredients and decided to make it.  (like if you have a party and have left over guacamole and green salsa).  It was spicy and good.

We had with Refried Pinto Beans with Chipotle.

Guacamole Chicken Melt

Photo by ALB

Prep: 15 m
Cook: 15 m
Ready In: 30 m
Adapted Recipe from AllRecipes.com

Ingredients 
Cooking Spray
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
2 teaspoons Penzy's Southwest Seasoning (chili powder, cumin, garlic, onion powder, etc.)
1 Cup store-bought Guacamole
4 slices pepper jack cheese
1/2 Cup Green Salsa

Directions
Preheat oven broiler, and set the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.

Heat the cooking spray in a skillet over medium heat, and pan-fry the chicken breasts for about 10 minutes per side until no longer pink on the inside and golden brown on the outside, sprinkling each side with Southwest seasoning.

Spoon about 1/4 cup of guacamole onto each chicken breast, top with a slice of pepper jack cheese, and broil for 2 to 4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Top with 2 TBSP of Green Salsa (on each piece).

7 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls

We've now had this twice, and both times, I can't get enought of it.  It is so smokey and then the cheesy polenta adds just the right cool down.

Easy Chicken Tamale Burrito Bowls

Photo by ALB

Adapted by halfbakedharvest
COURSE: main course
CUISINE: mexican

Prep time 10 minutes; Cook time 30 minutes; Total time 40 minutes
Servings 6 servings

INGREDIENTS
CHICKEN
1 1/2 pounds chicken breast or thighs (boneless) (I used a mix of both - you may also use pork beef or lentils for a vegetarian version)
2 cups red enchilada sauce
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 onion sliced
2 red pepper sliced
1 1/2 cups cooked black beans drained and rinsed if using canned (use the whole can)

CHEESY POLENTA
2 cups fat free chicken broth
2 cups 2% milk
1 cup dry polenta
4 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese shredded plus more for topping if desired
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

FOR TOPPING
1 avocado mashed with a pinch of salt and pepper
4 ounces queso fresco cheese crumbled (didn't use)
fresh cilantro chopped
crushed tortilla chips (didn't use)

INSTRUCTIONS
Heat a very large skillet over medium- high heat and add the olive oil. When the skillet is hot, but not smoking (if it starts to smoke, turn heat down a bit and wait 5 minutes before adding the veggies) add the onions and red and orange peppers. Stir fry the peppers for 3-5 minutes, until they just begin to soften. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Keep warm by covering the plate with foil.

Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the chicken and brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once the chicken is browned all over add the the enchilada sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, cayenne, garlic and onion powder and bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and simmer the chicken in the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until cooked through and shreds easily.

Meanwhile, make the polenta. Pour the chicken broth and milk into a medium size saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium and slowly whisk in the polenta. Cook, stirring frequently, until the polenta is soft and thick, about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep warm and then just before serving, stir in the cheddar cheese and butter, season with salt and pepper. If the polenta seems a little thick you can add a tablespoon of butter or extra milk.

When the chicken is done cooking remove the chicken from the heat and shred the chicken with 2 forks right in the sauce. If your peppers have cooled off too much I would toss them with the chicken to get them warm again. Toss in the black beans until warmed through.

To assemble the bowls, add a nice serving of polenta to each bowl. Top with the peppers and saucy chicken. Finish the bowls off with a dollop of mashed avocado, crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro and crushed tortilla chips. 13 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 6 servings)

Roasted Chicken, Butternut Squash and Guacamole Rice Bowls

D and I decided to have this recipe.  Of course it was all about cooking on a sheet pan, and he was like, Dutch Oven.  There was also some confusion about whether the rice was cooked or not (measuring 2 Cups).  As someone who doesn't eat a lot of rice, next time I'll assume it was cooked (way too much).

So yes, we both liked it and would have again.

Roasted Chicken, Butternut Squash and Guacamole Rice Bowls

Photo by ALB

Sheet pan roasted chicken breasts, butternut squash and red onion served with black beans, brown rice and guacamole make this a nutritious meal in a bowl.

SERVES: SERVES 4

Ingredients
2 cups Cooked long-grain brown rice (make enough to make 2-2.5 Cups)
1 15-ounce can black beans
1 cup cilantro leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground chili pepper
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
3 cups cubed butternut squash
1 red onion, sliced into ¼-inch slices
2 8-ounce skinless, boneless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut in half lengthwise
1 8-ounce package Wholly Guacamole® Dip of your choice

Instructions (I'm not really sure how D made it...he used a Dutch Oven)
Cook the brown rice according to package directions, Stir in 1 cup of the cilantro and keep warm. Warm the beans in a small saucepan or the microwave and keep warm.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.

Line a 9 X 13-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside.

In a small bowl or ramekin, mix the cumin, chili powder, kosher salt and pepper together. In a medium size bowl, add the butternut squash and onions. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of the seasoning mix. Toss and spread out the veggies on the sheet pan.

In the same bowl, add the chicken and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Sprinkle with the remainder of the seasoning and toss to coat well. Place the chicken on the foil lined sheet pan. Do not layer on the vegetables, but instead lay alongside.

Place the sheet pan on the middle rack of the hot oven and cook for 11-13 minutes. Do not disturb the vegetables or chicken so that they develop a caramelized crust. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil, then put the baking sheet back into the oven and cook the vegetables for an additional 5-7 minutes or until desired doneness.

Slice or chop the chicken breast. Assemble the bowls by layering the chicken with 1 cup brown rice, ¼ of the black beans the butternut squash and roasted onion. Top with guacamole and garnish with cilantro leaves and serve.

10 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings with 1/2C rice serving)

Baked Chicken and Rice Chimichangas

So DL over at A Well Fed Life pinned this recipe on her pinterest page.  I saw it and thought it looked good.  Also D was going to make a Whole Chicken for Easter.  And if you don't go to Whole Foods or a butcher, it seems a Whole Chicken is more like 10 pounds than 3-4.  We ALWAYS have left overs.

So D made Jalapeno Mustard Chicken and Green Rice.  We didn't have as much chicken as we usually have but we did have 2 cups of green rice.  It seemed this recipe below fit in on how to use everything up.

It was pretty good, but D and I both agreed it needed something "bright" inside the chimichanga.  I said cilantro or a fresh jalapeno.  D said Pico de Gallo.  I wasn't thinking when I went to the store, so I forgot to buy extra salsa, tomatoes, lettuce, and/or avocado for topping.  We had with Chipotle Refried Beans .

Baked Chicken and Rice Chimichangas

Photo by ALB

Adapted from: Lil' Luna
Recipe type: Main Dish
Serves: 4

INGREDIENTS
1½ c cooked shredded chicken breast (or use rotisserie or saute some chicken up)
⅔ c. salsa
1½ tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
Cooking Spray
2 C Green Chile Rice (or use Knorr or Uncle Ben's Spanish Rice)
1¼ c. shredded colby jack cheese
4 burrito size flour tortillas

INSTRUCTIONS
COMBINE the cooked shredded chicken with salsa, cumin, and oregano; set aside.

Reheat the Rice.

Stir the cheese and the rice into the chicken mixture. Divide the mixture between flour tortillas, wrap and place seam-side down on a cooking sprayed baking sheet. Spray the chimichangas with cooking spray and place in oven to bake for 10 minutes (or until golden brown and crispy) at 425 degrees. Rotate the baking pan and cook 8-10 more minutes.

Serve, if desired, with your favorite toppings such as; shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped tomato, chopped cilantro, chopped green onion, chopped lettuce, and lime wedges.

12 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Mexican Chicken, Sweet Potato and Black Bean Skillet

So this recipe is one of the ones that gives me pause with the new Weight Watchers Freestyle Program.  I mean 4 points for a 375 calorie meal?  Don't get me wrong. I've been losing weight, once I figured out Freestyle did not equal Free For All, but still it just is unsettling.  But oh well.

As for the recipe...  it a quick, throw everything in a pan meal. And it has enchilada sauce.  So it comes together fast, and did I mention that it has enchilada sauce?

The result is something my brother would call affectionately call "Taco Slop," and eat.  It was good.  We were going to sub out the sweet potato with butternut squash, because D doesn't like sweet potatoes.  But he ate it.  I amazingly didn't get any tomatoes in my portions (I don't like hot tomatoes except on pizza).

Anyway D and I both said we would have again. Next time we would add tortillas, or tortilla strips.

Mexican Chicken, Sweet Potato and Black Bean Skillet

Photo by ALB

PREP TIME: 00:10
COOK TIME: 00:10
SERVES: 4
From by Danae at RecipeRunner.com

An easy dinner all made in one skillet- Mexican Chicken, Sweet Potato and Black Bean Skillet. Top this healthy dinner with shredded cheese and cilantro for a fast and delicious Mexican inspired meal!

Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive oil (used Pam)
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite sized pieces
1/2 cup diced yellow onion
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 sweet potato, peeled, par-cooked and diced (see note on par-cooking)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (used grape tomatoes)
15 ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
4 ounce can diced green chiles
1/3 cup salsa or red enchilada sauce
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or colby jack cheese
1/2 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
Added chopped jalapenos to taste

Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large (10-12 inch) cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

In a small bowl combine all of the spices.

When the skillet is hot add in the chicken and spread into an even layer, then sprinkle with half of the spice blend.

Sauté the chicken for approximately 3 minutes then add in the onion.

Continue to cook for several more minutes or until the onion has softened and the chicken is cooked through. Lower the heat to medium and add in the remaining spice blend, sweet potato, cherry tomatoes, black beans, green chiles and salsa or enchilada sauce. Stir together and cook until the mixture is heated through, approximately 2-3 minutes.

Squeeze the lime juice over everything then top with the shredded cheese.

Cover with a lid or lay a piece of foil on top of the skillet until the cheese has melted.

Garnish with cilantro amd jalapenos and serve.

Recipe Notes
To par-cook a sweet potato, cut it in half lengthwise and place it in a shallow microwave safe dish or bowl cut side down. Pour a 1/4 cup of water in the dish, cover the dish with a piece of plastic wrap and poke a couple of holes in the top of the plastic to allow the steam to escape. Microwave for 3-5 minutes depending on the size or until the sweet potato is tender, but not fully cooked.

Nutrition Facts
Calories: 385 kcal; Total Fat: 11g; Saturated Fat: 4g; Cholesterol: 96mg; Carbohydrate: 36g; Dietary Fiber: 11g; Sugars: 7g; Protein: 38g

4 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Steak, Feta, and Olive Quesadillas

D made these the other night.  Of course, he took out the olives.

He thought the spinach was over-powering.  I thought it was fine.  Again, we agreed we need a higher quality feta than Kroger brand. Overall we would both have again.  We had with a spinach/egg salad.

Steak, Feta, and Olive Quesadillas

Photo by ALB

Yield: Serves 4 (serving size: 4 wedges and 1 tbsp. yogurt)
Time: 25 minutes
Veg Out: Substitute sliced cremini mushrooms for the steak and add an extra cup of spinach to the filling for a vegetarian main.

We first tried a Mexican-Italian quesadilla mash-up with pizzadillas—quesadillas with melty mozzarella and a marinara dipping sauce. Now we head to the Mediterranean with a steak, feta, and olive quesadilla filling and a dollop of cool Greek yogurt on top. Instead of layering meat, vegetables, and cheese inside the tortilla, we make one filling of steak and vegetables to save time. Be careful not to overstuff the tortillas or they may fall apart in the pan. This recipe is also great for entertaining: Serve the wedges on a platter with a side of yogurt and a “salsa” of chopped cucumber, tomato, red onion, and parsley.

Ingredients 
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided (used 1 TBSP)
12 ounces sirloin steak, thinly sliced
1 cup chopped fresh spinach (about 1 1/2 oz.)
1 1/2 ounces 1/3-less-fat cream cheese
1 ounce feta cheese, crumbled (about 1/4 cup)
12 Castelvetrano olives, chopped (didn't use)
4 (8-in.) whole-wheat tortillas (used OLE Xtreme Wellness Tortillas)
1/4 cup plain 2% reduced-fat Greek yogurt (used Opadipity Greek Cucumber Greek Dill Dip)

Preparation
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add steak; cook 5 minutes or until browned. Add spinach, cream cheese, feta, and olives; cook 2 minutes. Remove steak mixture from pan.

Wipe pan clean with paper towels. Spoon about 1/3 cup steak mixture evenly over half of each tortilla. Fold tortillas in half over filling. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons oil to pan. Place 2 quesadillas in pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until browned. Repeat procedure with remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil and remaining 2 quesadillas. Cut each quesadilla into 4 wedges. Serve with yogurt.

Nutritional Information as written
Calories 346; Fat: 18.2g; Satfat: 5.4g; Monofat: 10.2g; Polyfat: 1.3g; Protein: 23g; Carbohydrate: 20g; Fiber: 1g; Cholesterol: 59mg; Iron: 2mg; Sodium: 672mg; Calcium: 118mg; Sugars: 1g; Est. added sugars: 0 g

Cooking Light, August 2017

8 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Skillet Nacho Dip

Any time Nacho and Dip are in the same sentence, you know I have to have it.

I showed D and he said we should have it for lunch this past Sunday, considering we had no leftovers. So he made it.  It is great with a pale ale.  We both had to stop ourselves from eating more than 1/4 of the dip.

The hamburger it called for...D bought 90/10 ground beef and threw that in, instead.

We would have again.

Skillet Nacho Dip

Photo by ALB

ACTIVE TIME: 20 mins
TOTAL TIME: 20 mins
YIELD: Serves 4 (serving size: 1/2 cup dip and about 2/3 cup chips)

We took our favorite elements of cheesy queso dip and loaded beef nachos and combined the two into one epic skillet nacho dip, a one-pan main that couldn’t be more fun to eat. It starts with a base of onion and jalapeño, followed by crumbled cooked beef patties, pinto beans, and two kinds of cheeses for a maximum melty factor. Top with red onion, tomato, and avocado or other fresh toppers like sliced jalapeños, scallions, and cilantro (just be sure your chips are sturdy enough for dipping). The dip would also be delicious with leftover shredded barbecue pork or rotisserie chicken.

Ingredients
1 teaspoon olive oil
3/4 cup chopped red onion, divided
2 tablespoons seeded minced jalapeño
1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
2/3 cup unsalted beef stock
2 cooked ground beef patties (from Smoky Caramelized Onion Burgers), finely crumbled (used 1lb of 90/10)
1 cup drained unsalted canned pinto beans (used black beans, bc Aldi didn't have pinto.)
2 ounces preshredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 1/2 cup)
2 ounces preshredded 2% reduced-fat Mexican-blend cheese (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup chopped tomato
1/2 cup chopped avocado
2 1/2 cups baked tortilla chips

Preparation
Preheat broiler with oven rack in upper middle position.

Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Add 1/2 cup onion and jalapeño to pan; sauté 4 minutes or until tender. Add flour, cumin, and chili powder; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and stir in crumbled beef patties and beans; cook 2 minutes. Stir in mozzarella; cook 1 minute or until cheese is melted. Remove pan from heat.

Sprinkle Mexican-blend cheese over pan; broil 1 minute or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup red onion, tomato, and avocado over pan. Serve with chips.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (original recipe)
Calories: 385; Fat: 18.2 g; Sat Fat: 6.5 g; Mono Fat: 8 g; Poly Fat: 1.7 g; Protein: 25 g; Carbohydrate 31 g; Fiber 7 g; Cholesterol: 54 mg; Iron: 3 mg; Sodium: 561 mg; Calcium: 327 mg; Sugars: 3 g; Est. Added Sugars: 0 g

Cooking Light, AUGUST 2017

14 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

TURKEY (or Beef) TACO SPAGHETTI SQUASH BOATS

I'm not sure how I feel about these.  I never had spaghetti squash before this.  So D and I tried it.  While not bad, they aren't the end-all-be-all either.  They tasted like yellow squash in string form.  So I can't imagine putting spaghetti sauce and parm cheese on it and faking anyone out.  Actually, I'm kind of grossed out by that .

However, considering we have had zucchini with queso fresco, and squash and zucchini with jalapenos, adding a "Mexican" flair to spaghetti squash wasn't creepy.

The taste of the filling was very good.  However, it tasted like taco meat on top of squash.  If I want to save calories/points, I think I would just put the filling on a 1-pt tortilla and call it a day. The other thing is tacos in my mind are typically cheap.  The squash alone was over $9, so I was kind of stuck on that.

We had with black beans.  I don't think we'll have again. Not horrid, just the price point was off for me.

TURKEY (or Beef) TACO SPAGHETTI SQUASH BOATS

Photo by ALB

Yield: 6 servings, Serving Size: 1 boat (we had 4 servings)
TOTAL TIME: 1 hour
Adapted from Skinny Taste

INGREDIENTS
3 small spaghetti squash (24 oz each) (we used 2 squashes)
olive oil spray
1 lb 93% ground turkey (used 96%/4% ground beef)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 small onion, minced
2 tbsp bell pepper, minced
1/2 cup water
4 oz can tomato sauce
3/4 cup part-skim shredded Mexican cheese blend

For the Pico De Gallo: (bought fresh from the store)
1 cup chopped tomato
1/4 cup chopped scallion
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 jalapeno, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 400F degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (or two if they don’t fit). Cut the squash in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and soft yellow strands. Spray the inside of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Place the squash facedown on the baking sheet and bake for 50 minutes or until the flesh easily pierces with a fork.

Meanwhile, brown turkey in a large skillet breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. When no longer pink add dry seasoning and mix well. Add the onion, pepper, water and tomato sauce and cover. Simmer on low for about 20 minutes.

Combine the ingredients for the quick pico de gallo in a medium bowl. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to eat.

Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the inside so the strands appear. Spoon scant 1/2 cup meat inside each squash bowl. Top each with 2 tbsp cheese and transfer them to the oven and bake another 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven, top with pico de gallo and serve immediately!

5 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Carne Asada Bowls

As always with a chopped salad we got 3 really huge servings.  D isn't a fan of leftover salad, so that's why.

Anyway, this was really good. He grilled the steak, and the rest came together.  We didn't have a side, but the salad was so huge, why would we?

Will have again.

Carne Asada Bowls

Photo by ALB

Serves: 4 (we got 3)

Ingredients
Cooking spray
1 (12-oz.) flank steak (used 1 lb)
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
2 teaspoons olive oil (used cooking spray)
3/4 cup chopped white onion
1/2 cup unsalted chicken stock (such as Swanson)
1 (15-oz.) can unsalted pinto beans, rinsed and drained
3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 1/2 cups chopped tomato
1 ounce tortilla chips (used baked tortilla chips)
1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
1 1/2 ounces queso fresco, crumbled (about 1/3 cup)
4 lime wedges (didn't use)

Preparation
Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Coat pan with cooking spray. (D heated the grill). Sprinkle steak with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add steak to pan; cook 5 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness. (D did this, but on the grill). Place steak on a cutting board; let stand 5 minutes. Cut across the grain into slices; cut slices into 3/4-inch pieces.

Add oil to pan (used cooking spray); swirl. Add onion; sauté 2 minutes. Add 1/4 teaspoon salt, stock, and beans to pan; bring to a boil. Cook 4 minutes, scraping pan to loosen browned bits.

Divide lettuce among 4 shallow bowls. Top evenly with bean mixture, steak, tomato, tortilla chips, and avocado. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and queso fresco.

Serve with lime wedges.

NUTRITION INFORMATION
Calories: 369; Fat: 15.1 g; Sat Fat: 3.6 g; Mono Fat: 6.9 g; Poly Fat: 1 g; Protein: 28 g; Carbohydrate: 31 g; Fiber: 10 g; Cholesterol: 56 mg; Iron: 4 mg; Sodium: 486 mg; Calcium: 133 mg; Sugars: 4 g; Est. Added Sugars: 0 g

Cooking Light, JANUARY 2017

12 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions at 3 servings)

Chicken Tinga Tacos

D made these the other night.  I'm not sure if they were easy, but they were good.  Nice smoke flavor.

We had with refried pinto beans with chipotle.

Chicken Tinga Tacos

Photo by ALB

These bold and smoky tacos provide the perfect route to reinventing some leftover chicken. Serve them up with a crisp green salad for a light and refreshing weeknight supper.

Yield: Serves 4 (serving size: 2 tacos)
Total time: 24 Minutes

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 small chipotle chile, canned in adobo
3/4 cup chopped tomato
1/4 cup unsalted chicken stock
1 tablespoon adobo sauce
2 cups shredded chicken breast
1 cup shredded dark meat chicken
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
8 (6-inch) corn tortillas, warmed
1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream
1/2 cup cilantro
1 ripe peeled avocado, sliced
1 ounce queso fresco, crumbled
4 lime wedges

Preparation
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté 4 minutes. Add oregano, cumin, and chipotle chile; cook 1 minute. Add tomato, stock, and adobo; bring to a simmer. Cook 7 minutes. Place tomato mixture in a blender. Remove center piece of blender lid (to allow steam to escape); secure blender lid on blender. Cover opening with a kitchen towel (to avoid splatters); blend until smooth. Return sauce to pan over low heat. Add chicken and salt; cook 1 minute. Divide mixture among tortillas. Top evenly with sour cream, cilantro, avocado, and cheese. Serve with lime.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 402; Fat 18 g; Sat fat: 4.6 g; Mono fat: 8.8 g; Poly fat: 2.6 g; Protein: 30 g; Carbohydrate: 33 g; Fiber: 8 g; Cholesterol: 99 mg; Iron: 2 mg; Sodium: 502 mg; Calcium: 131 mg; Sugars: 4 g; Est. Added Sugars: 0 g

Cooking Light, January 2016

Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos

These were very easy. That aside, they need some tweaking, but because they were easy, they will get it.

First we used white rice because that's what we had. Second, we combined the rice and beans.  We decided after the fact they needed some seasoning (see my additions for next time).

We had with a southwest salad.

Shrimp and Black Bean Tacos

Photo by ALB

YIELD Serves 4 (serving size: 2 tacos)

A little bit of the black bean liquid brings the chunky mash together. The mash also helps to hold all the filling in place.

Ingredients
2 teaspoons canola oil (didn't use)
3/4 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin, divided
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper
1 (15-oz.) can unsalted black beans
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
8 (6-in.) corn tortillas
1 cup hot cooked brown rice (used 1 cup cooked white rice)
1/2 cup fresh pico de gallo
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro leaves
(Next time, lime juice, 1/4 C cilantro, 1/2 tsp salt)

Preparation
Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp, 1 teaspoon cumin, and pepper; cook 5 minutes or until done, stirring occasionally. Remove shrimp from pan. Drain beans in a colander over a bowl, reserving 2 tablespoons liquid. Add beans (didn't do), reserved liquid (didn't do), 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and chili powder to pan; cook 3 minutes, mashing beans with a fork.

(Heated beans and added the Cup of rice mixing everything with the reserve liquid...add some lime juice, 1/4 C cilantro and 1/2 tsp salt next time).

Working with 1 tortilla at a time, heat tortillas over medium-high directly on the eye of a burner 15 seconds on each side (or microwave those suckers). Divide bean (and rice mixture), rice, shrimp, pico, onions, and avocado evenly among tortillas. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve immediately.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (from CL)
Calories: 408; Fat: 11 g; Sat fat: 1 g; Mono fat: 4.9 g; Poly fat: 2.2 g; Protein: 22 g; Carbohydrate: 61 g; Fiber: 11 g;Cholesterol: 107 mg; Iron: 2 mg; Sodium: 323 mg; Calcium: 138 mg; Sugars: 4 g

10 Smart Points (my additions/subtractions)

Cooking Light, DECEMBER 2016

Slow-Cooker Barbacoa

So in an effort not to eat roller food/spend money out on food, D made this before we went to a beer festival.  I guess he put it on at 9am.  We got home at 8pm.  Then I forgot to put it in the refrigerator (it was on warm on the Crock Pot).  (I may have also had roller food).

So Sunday rolled around, and we decided to have it (after we put it in the refrigerator, and then heated it up).  It was dry, I'll admit, but I think that was the function of the cook and his helper. It also didn't shred, so D sliced it.

Anyway, except for being dry, it was really good.  A lot of flavor.  I liked it.

We had with refried beans, and served the meat taco-style. I forgot a picture.

Slow-Cooker Barbacoa

Serves 8

Ingredients
3 to 4-pound beef chuck roast
3 bay leaves
1 cup cider vinegar
juice of 2 limes
3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, drained
4 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup chicken broth
flour tortillas
Toppings: shredded Colby Jack cheese, shredded lettuce, guacamole

Preparation
Place roast and bay leaves in a large slow cooker. In a food processor or blender, combine vinegar, lime juice, peppers, garlic and seasonings. Process on high until smooth. Pour vinegar mixture and broth over roast. Cover and cook on low setting for 6 to 8 hours, until roast is fork-tender. Shred beef with 2 forks; return to juices in slow cooker. Serve on tortillas with desired toppings.

11 Smart Points (toppings not included)

Goosebury Patch, AUGUST 2013