ROASTED SWEET POTATOES, SAUSAGE, AND BROCCOLI SHEET PAN MEAL

D said we could have this if he could put butternut squash in it, so we compromised and put in both.
It was good, although a little small.  Still would have again.

ROASTED SWEET POTATOES, SAUSAGE, AND BROCCOLI SHEET PAN MEAL

Photo by ALB

Yield 4 SERVINGS
prep time 10 MINUTES
cook time 40 MINUTES
total time 50 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS
1 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into medium-sized cubes
Added 2 Cups of Butternut Squash
3 T olive oil
1 T balsamic vinegar
1 tsp. garlic powder
fresh ground black pepper to taste
1 pkg. (4 or 5 links) pre-cooked chicken, turkey, or pork sausage (about 14-16 oz. sausage) (used Aidells Basil and Garlic Chicken Sausage)
1 lb. broccoli, trimmed and cut apart to make about 3/4 pound broccoli pieces
salt and additional fresh-ground black pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 450F/230C and spray sheet pan with non-stick spray.

Cut up two (or one) medium sweet potatoes (and butternut) into cubes that aren't too small. (I made cubes that were about one inch across.)

Whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Put sweet potato cubes into a bowl and toss with half the oil-balsamic mixture.

Spread sweet potatoes out on a sheet pan, put pan in the oven, and start to roast for 15 minutes.

Slice sausage into slices about 3/4 inch thick. (We trimmed off the ends so the sausage would have a flat end on both sides.)

When sweet potatoes have roasted 15 minutes, add sausage pieces to the sheet pan and roast 10 minutes more.

Cut up broccoli into same-size pieces (about the size of the other ingredients.)

Put broccoli into the bowl and toss broccoli with the rest of the oil-balsamic mixture.

Remove sheet pan from the oven and turn sausage pieces over. Then spread sausage and sweet potatoes apart and tuck broccoli pieces between them.

Put sheet pan back in the oven and cook 15 minutes more, or until broccoli is done to your liking and sausages and sweet potatoes are nicely browned.

Season with a little salt and fresh-ground black pepper and serve hot.

9 WW Blue Points (my additions/subtractions at 4 servings)

Roasted Potatoes and Spinach

Both D and I enjoyed it. I think it was the ton of butter that was in the dish.  We both would have it again. We had with Honey-Rosemary Pork Tenderloin.

Roasted Potatoes and Spinach

Photo by ALB

Crispy potatoes meet garlicky spinach for the perfect side dish.

Level: Easy
Total: 40 min
Prep: 12 min
Cook: 28 min
Yield: 3 servings

From Food Network

Ingredients
1 pound small red-skinned potatoes, quartered
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon grainy mustard
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
One 5-ounce container baby spinach
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Toss the potatoes with the butter and mustard on a baking sheet until coated; season with salt and pepper.

Roast, stirring once halfway through, until the potatoes are browned and tender, about 25 minutes.
Stir in the spinach and garlic and continue to roast until the spinach is wilted, 1 to 2 minutes more. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper.

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

Braised Pork with Potatoes and Shallots

I thought this was a good recipe because it had both sweet potatoes and regular. D doesn't like sweet, so I figured he could pick them out of his, and I could have some.
He was unsure how coriander and fennel would work, but it did.  I really liked it. D thought the potatoes were on the mushy side.

If we have again, I think we should add steamed green beans at the last minute.

Braised Pork with Potatoes and Shallots

Photo by ALB

Active Time: 20 Mins
Total Time: 8 Hours 25 Mins
Yield: Serves 8 (serving size: 2/3 cup pork, 2/3 cup vegetables, and 1/4 cup sauce)

Use preground fennel and coriander seeds if you’re short on time; you’ll lose the texture the crushed seeds provide, but you’ll get the same great flavor. Substitute 2 teaspoons each of the ground seeds for 1 tablespoon whole seeds.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon fennel seeds
1 tablespoon coriander seeds
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
3 pounds bone-in pork shoulder roast (Boston butt), trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
3/4 cup unsalted chicken stock
1/4 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce
1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
1 pound baby Yukon Gold potatoes, halved
4 large shallots, peeled and halved lengthwise (about 4 oz.)
2 large fresh thyme sprigs
Fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions 
Place fennel seeds and coriander seeds in a spice grinder; pulse until coarsely ground. Stir together ground seeds, pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt in a small bowl; sprinkle evenly over pork.

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add pork to skillet; cook, turning to brown on all sides, about 8 minutes. Transfer pork to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker; reserve drippings in skillet.

Add chicken stock, wine, and soy sauce to reserved drippings in skillet; bring to a boil over medium-high, stirring to loosen browned bits from bottom of skillet. Pour mixture over pork. Add sweet potatoes, Yukon Gold potatoes, shallots, and thyme sprigs to slow cooker. Cover and cook on low until pork and vegetables are tender, about 8 hours.

Transfer pork to a cutting board, and let rest 5 minutes. Transfer vegetables to a platter; reserve cooking liquid in slow cooker. Discard thyme sprigs. Break pork into large pieces; discard bone. Place pork on platter with vegetables; sprinkle with remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Garnish with thyme leaves, if desired. Serve with reserved cooking liquid.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 280; Fat: 9g; Satfat: 3g; Unsatfat: 6g; Protein: 23g; Carbohydrate: 24g; Fiber: 4g: Sugars: 4g; Added sugars: 0g; Sodium: 627mg: Calcium: 5% DV; Potassium: 12% DV

Cooking Light, October 2018

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

PIEROGI CHICKEN SUPPER RECIPE

This recipe came about because I had a coupon for Pierogies.  We have another recipe but I wanted to try something different.  Plus this had chicken in it so I knew D would go for it.

It was really good.  I think next time though, D would bake the pierogies and add the cauliflower (or broccoli) to the pot.

PIEROGI CHICKEN SUPPER RECIPE

Photo by ALB

Chicken, cheese and onion combine with frozen pierogies to give dinner a change of pace. Best part is, it takes just 30 minutes to get this satisfying skillet supper on the table.

From Taste of Home
Makes: 4 servings
Serving Size 1 Cup
Prep/Total Time: 30 min.

INGREDIENTS
1 package (16 ounces) frozen pierogies
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2x1/2-inch strips
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1/2 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
(add broccoli or cauliflower)

DIRECTIONS
Cook pierogies according to package directions; drain (or bake them). Meanwhile, toss chicken with salt and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat; saute chicken and onion until chicken is no longer pink. Remove from pan.

In same pan, heat remaining butter over medium heat; saute pierogies until lightly browned. Stir in chicken mixture; sprinkle with cheese. Cover; remove from heat and let stand until cheese is melted.

NUTRITIONAL FACTS
1 cup: 444 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 762mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 33g protein.

9 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 and Veggies with Zesty Chimichurri

Cooking Light has a ton of recipes for the August 2017 issue. This was the third one we've had. I figured I wouldn't have a hard time getting D to make this. I was right.

He halved the recipe though (well besides the steak) because none of it really tastes good left over, if you think about it.

Would totally have again. But it had chimichurri. It's hard to go wrong with that.

Steak and Veggies with Zesty Chimichurri

Photo by ALB

ACTIVE TIME: 10 mins
TOTAL TIME: 20 mins
YIELD Serves 2 (serving size: 1 fillet, about 1/2 cup potatoes, 1/2 cup squash, and 2 tbsp. cilantro mixture)

Beef tenderloin fillets make this summer dish an incredibly quick standout. You can also use 2 (8-ounce) sirloin steaks, grilled for 4 minutes on each side or until your desired degree of doneness. We simplify the chimichurri formula by leaning on garlic, cilantro, and olive oil. You could also add a pinch of crushed red pepper, ground cumin, and about a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice if you have these ingredients on hand. Parcooked potatoes cook more quickly and evenly on the grill. Instead of microwaving, you could boil the potatoes whole, cool, slice, and refrigerate for later.

Ingredients
2/3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into wedges
Cooking spray
2 (8-oz.) beef tenderloin fillets
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
1/2 pound yellow squash, cut diagonally into (1/4-in.-thick) slices (about 3 cups)
1 1/4 cups loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
5 cloves chopped garlic
2 TBSP cup olive oil
(add a jalapeno, seeded)

Preparation
Preheat grill to medium (350°F to 400°F).

Place potatoes in a microwave-safe dish; cover tightly with plastic wrap. Cut a 1/2-inch slit in plastic. Microwave at HIGH 6 minutes or until almost tender. Coat grill grate with cooking spray. Add potatoes to grill (skewer if necessary); cook 5 minutes or until tender and well marked, turning after 3 minutes.

Coat fillets with cooking spray; sprinkle evenly with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add fillets to grill; cook 3 to 5 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness. Remove fillets from pan; cover, and keep warm.

Coat squash with cooking spray; sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add squash to grill; cook 3 minutes or until tender and lightly charred.

Place remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cilantro, and garlic (and jalapeno) in a food processor; pulse until finely chopped. Add oil; process 30 seconds or until smooth. Serve cilantro mixture with potatoes, fillets, and squash.

Adapted from Cooking Light, AUGUST 2017

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

BBQ Beef-Stuffed Potatoes

D and I decided to make this.  We typically make 1 crockpot meal a week.  We both thought the potatoes in the crockpot was weird, so D was going to microwave them. However I was home so I baked them in the oven.

The result was pretty good. The BBQ won't win any contest, but again, another comfort food that is perfect and ready when you get home.  Working from home, the smell will make you hungry all day.

We cut the recipe to 4. It made big portions. (Even though I baked the potatoes, I still used the salt and oil, so I counted it for my nutritional purposes

BBQ Beef-Stuffed Potatoes

Photo by ALB

ACTIVE TIME: 15 mins; TOTAL TIME: 8 hrs, 15 mins
YIELD: Serves 6 (we got 4)

Be sure to wrap the potatoes in parchment paper; foil can add a metallic taste to the dish. (we baked out potatoes in the oven an hour before eating).

Ingredients
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted tomato paste
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1 1/4 teaspoons black pepper, divided
1 1/2 pounds boneless chuck roast, trimmed
1 1/2 cups vertically sliced red onion
Cooking spray
6 (4-oz.) russet potatoes (used 4)
2 teaspoons olive oil (used 1 TBSP)
3 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 3/4 cup)
6 tablespoons light sour cream
1/4 cup sliced green onions

Preparation
Combine brown sugar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 3/4 teaspoon pepper in a small bowl; rub generously over roast.

Place red onion slices in bottom of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker coated with cooking spray; top with roast.

Rub potatoes with oil, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Wrap each potato in parchment paper; arrange on top of roast. (didn't do)

Cover and cook on LOW 8 hours or until tender. (baked potatoes in the oven for 1 hour with no type of wrap (with the salt and oil) or in the microwave)

Unwrap potatoes; split lengthwise, cutting to but not through the other side. Shred roast with 2 forks, and stir to combine with onion mixture.

Top each potato with 1/2 cup beef mixture, 2 tablespoons cheese, 1 tablespoon sour cream, 2 teaspoons green onions, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (as written from CL, 6 Servings)
Calories: 385; Fat: 12.7 g; Sat fat: 6.1 g; Mono fat: 4.9 g; Poly fat: 0.7 g; Protein: 32 g; Carbohydrate: 37 g; Fiber: 3 g; Cholesterol: 92 mg; Iron: 4 mg; Sodium: 687 mg; Calcium: 173 mg; Sugars: 12 g

16 Smart Points (4 servings, my calculation)

Cooking Light, DECEMBER 2016

Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage, Bell Pepper, and Fennel

A few weeks ago, Aldi had some whole wheat gnocchi at the store, so we picked up a few packages.  This week while we were looking to eat healthy we were also looking to use up ingredients already in the house.  So D found this recipe.

First, someone needs to tell Cooking Light to stop promoting Gerhard's sausage or at least say they have some exclusivity to it. I have never seen it in Kroger or Publix, and it is just getting ridiculous.  So that was the first substitution.  We ended up buying Johnsonville Italian Style with Cheese Chicken Sausage Split Rope (at Kroger)...which made the calories higher, but not by much.

So the taste was very good.  There was no cream, but there seemed to be a creamy texture.

I would have again.

We had with Broccoli in Creamy Parmesan Sauce.  D said to next time have it with a salad though...less bowls.

Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage, Bell Pepper, and Fennel

Photo by ALB

Vary the flavor by using a different cheese, such as pecorino Romano.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 1 1/2 cups)

Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) package vacuum-packed gnocchi (such as Vigo)
2 teaspoons olive oil, divided
6 ounces basil, pine nut, and chicken sausage (such as Gerhard's), casing removed and sliced
1 cup thinly sliced fennel
1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
1 cup thinly sliced onion
1/2 cup (2 ounces) freshly grated Asiago cheese
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Preparation
1. Cook the gnocchi according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain the gnocchi in a colander over a bowl, reserving 1/4 cup cooking liquid. Keep gnocchi warm.

2. Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage to pan; sauté 3 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring frequently. Remove sausage from skillet using a slotted spoon.

3. Heat remaining 1 teaspoon oil in pan. Add fennel, bell pepper, and onion to pan; cook 13 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add sausage, gnocchi, cheese, black pepper, and reserved cooking liquid to pan; cook 1 minute or until cheese melts, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in parsley.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 342; Fat: 11.5 g;  Sat fat: 4.3 g; Mono fat: 4.7 g; Poly fat: 1.6 g; Protein: 15.9 g; Carbohydrate: 45.4 g;  Fiber: 2.9 g; Cholesterol: 50 mg; Iron: 1.1 mg; Sodium: 829 mg; Calcium: 155 mg

Cooking Light, APRIL 2008

Camembert Mashed Potatoes

A few years ago, D made these mashed potatoes.  They were quite good.  The Camembert was not overwhelming, but you could definitely taste it was there. Over the years, we have said we would have them again, but there is something hard about putting a really nice cheese into mashed potatoes (or I'm just cheap).

Anwyay, Kroger had Camembert marked down, so I picked up a wheel.  And we decided to have these.  They still taste like I remember.

We halved the recipe, since it was just the 2 of us.

Camembert Mashed Potatoes

Photo by ALB

The buttery taste and creamy texture of Camembert cheese glorifies these potatoes. Camembert is similar in flavor and texture to Brie, which makes a fine substitute. The rind is easiest to remove if the cheese is well chilled.

Yield: 12 servings (serving size: about 2/3 cup)

Ingredients
1 1/2 (8-ounce) rounds Camembert cheese
11 cups cubed peeled Yukon gold potato (about 4 1/2 pounds)
1/2 cup 1% low-fat milk
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Chopped fresh chives (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Preparation
Cut cheese into 6 wedges. Carefully remove rind from cheese; discard rind. Chop cheese; let stand at room temperature while potato cooks.

Place potato in a large Dutch oven; cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 12 minutes or until tender. Drain in a colander; return potato to pan. Add cheese, milk, salt, and 3/4 teaspoon pepper; mash with a potato masher until smooth. Garnish with chives and additional pepper, if desired.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 198; Fat: 4.4 g; Sat fat: 2.8 g; Mono fat: 1.3 g; Poly fat: 0.1 g; Protein: 7.9 g; Carbohydrate: 30.7 g; Fiber: 2 g; Cholesterol: 13 mg; Iron: 1.5 mg; Sodium: 310 mg; Calcium: 82 mg

Cooking Light, NOVEMBER 2005

Cilantro-Jalapeño Latkes with Chipotle Sour Cream

This recipe came about in 2 ways.  One, when it was Hanukkah, Cooking Light emailed out this recipe.  So I pinned it.  Second, we had left over hash-browns from the Southwest Shrimp and Corn Chowder, so we decided to have these.  You won't get 12 latkes if you do it this way.  Such is life.

D made them.  He said the key is to get the oil in the pan very hot, (something he doesn't usually do), to prevent them from sticking.

We both liked them a lot. We would have again.  We had with Jalapeno Chicken.

Cilantro-Jalapeño Latkes with Chipotle Sour Cream

Photo by ALB

Turn a basic latke recipe into a Mexican-style dish by adding cilantro and jalapeno peppers to the potato cakes and serving with chipotle-flavored sour cream.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 2 latkes and about 1 1/2 tablespoons sour cream mixture)

Ingredients
6 tablespoons light sour cream
1 tablespoon chopped chipotle chile, canned in adobo sauce
3/4 teaspoon grated lime rind
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
6 cups shredded peeled baking potato (about 1 1/2 pounds)
1 cup grated fresh onion
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons finely chopped seeded jalapeño pepper
1 large egg
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup olive oil, divided

Preparation
1. Combine first 4 ingredients in a small bowl, stirring well. Cover and chill until ready to serve.

2. Combine potato and onion in a colander. Drain 30 minutes, pressing occasionally with the back of a spoon until barely moist. Combine potato mixture, flour, and next 5 ingredients (through salt) in a large bowl; toss well.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons oil to pan; swirl to coat. (let the pan oil get hot...about 15 minutes). Spoon 1/4 cup potato mixture loosely into a dry measuring cup. Pour mixture into pan; flatten slightly. Repeat the procedure 5 times to form 6 latkes. Sauté 3 1/2 minutes on each side or until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Remove latkes from pan; keep warm. Repeat procedure with remaining 2 tablespoons oil and potato mixture to yield 12 latkes total. Serve with sour cream mixture.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 260; Fat: 11 g; Sat fat: 2.2 g; Mono fat: 6.9 g; Poly fat: 1.2 g; Protein: 5.6 g; Carbohydrate: 35.3 g; Fiber: 3.8 g; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Iron: 2.1 mg; Sodium: 268 mg; Calcium: 36 mg

Cooking Light, DECEMBER 2010

Spiced Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Potatoes and Green Onions

This was really good.  Simple and flavorful.

Spiced Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Potatoes and Green Onions 

This simple pork supper is a one-skillet wonder--it'll be your new go-to meal on busy weeknights. The green onions become tender and slightly sweet as they roast, a nice contrast to the spiced pork and crispy potatoes.

Yield: Serves 4 (serving size: 3 ounces pork and about 3/4 cup potato mixture)

Photo by ALB

Ingredients
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper
1 (1-pound) pork tenderloin, trimmed
2 center-cut bacon slices
1 pound quartered new potatoes
6 green onions, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 375°.

2. Combine salt, black pepper, paprika, sugar, and red pepper in a bowl. Rub spice mixture evenly over pork tenderloin.

3. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add bacon to pan; cook 4 minutes or until crisp. Remove bacon from pan; crumble. Add potatoes and onions to drippings in pan; cook 4 minutes or until lightly browned, turning once. Remove potato mixture from pan. Add pork to pan; cook 3 minutes. Turn pork over; return potato mixture to pan with pork. Sprinkle garlic over potato mixture. Bake at 375° for 12 minutes or until a thermometer inserted in pork registers 145°. Remove pork from pan; let stand 5 minutes. Cut across the grain into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Sprinkle bacon and parsley over potato mixture; serve with pork.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 227; Fat: 3.7 g; Satfat: 1.4 g; Monofat: 0.9 g; Polyfat: 0.5 g; Protein: 27 g; Carbohydrate: 21 g; Fiber: 3 g; Cholesterol: 77 mg; Iron: 2 mg; Sodium:393 mg; Calcium: 38 mg

Cooking Light, JULY 2015

Sweet Potato and Chickpea Cakes with Avocado Salsa

So last week D mentioned something about becoming vegetarian.  It's not really what he said, it's what I heard.  And I was trying to figure out what was wrong with a man who had a charcoal, grill, a gas grill and a pig roasting box.  He didn't have an explanation (it wasn't the saving of animals, and he wasn't sick, so I gave up trying to figure it out and looked for recipes).

Funnily (it that a word?), I had found this recipe the day before his revelation.  I was going to make it for lunch this past Sunday while he was at work, because I didn't think it would fly.  However, he made it for dinner on Monday.  

It took a while to make and sounded like a PITA but it tasted really good.  We had with a Southwest Salad from Kroger. I think we were supposed to have cauliflower with it, but oh well. We didn't.

The cakes were not completely filling so you either need 2 or a big salad.  But overall I would have again.

I may have thought about bacon after we were done eating.

Sweet Potato and Chickpea Cakes with Avocado Salsa

We love the flavors in Sweet Potato and Chickpea Cakes with Avocado Salsa for a meatless meal night. Onion and spicy jalapeno contrast the sweet potato cakes.

Yield: Serves 4 (serving size: 1 patty and about 1/2 cup salsa)

Photo by ALB

Ingredients
2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
6 garlic cloves, crushed
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
1 3/4 cups grated sweet potato (about 8 ounces)
5/8 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, divided
1 (15-ounce) can unsalted chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
1 large egg
1 cup chopped peeled avocado
1 cup chopped tomato
1/2 cup vertically sliced red onion
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper

Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 400°.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add yellow onion, garlic, and jalapeño to pan; sauté 3 minutes. Add sweet potato, 3/8 teaspoon salt, and black pepper to pan; sauté 2 minutes. Combine potato mixture, panko, 1 1/2 tablespoons juice, chickpeas, and egg in a food processor; pulse until chickpeas are coarsely ground. Divide potato mixture into 4 equal portions, shaping each into a 4-inch patty. Return skillet to medium-high heat. Add remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add patties to pan; cook 3 minutes or until browned. Carefully turn patties over. Place pan in oven; bake at 400° for 6 minutes or until browned.

3. Combine avocado, tomato, red onion, remaining 1 tablespoon juice, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and red pepper in a bowl; toss. Serve salsa with cakes.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 330; Fat: 16.1 g; Sat fat: 2.4 g; Mono fat: 10.3 g; Poly fat: 1.9 g; Protein: 9 g; Carbohydrate: 39.6 g; Fiber: 8.5 g; Cholesterol: 47 mg; Iron: 1.9 mg; Sodium: 393 mg; Calcium: 90 mg

Cooking Light, OCTOBER 2013

Baked Fries with Garlic Cheese Sauce

Garlic and Cheese...they were good.  D made them. I wish there had been more cheese sauce, but when don't I lament that.  The calories were higher than what Laaloosh reported, but such is life.

We would have again.  We had with Reubens.

Baked Fries with Garlic Cheese Sauce

Preparation time: 15 minute(s)
Cooking time: 40 minute(s)
4 servings
Serving size is about 1 ½ cup fries, and 3 tbsp cheese sauce

Photo by ALB

From Laaloosh

Ingredients
5 medium sized gold potatoes, washed and dried
2 egg whites
1/4 cup reduced fat milk
3 tbsp reduced fat cream cheese
1/4 cup Mexican style cheese, shredded
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste

Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Slice potatoes into french fry-shape strips. Place in a bowl and toss with the egg whites.

Season with salt.

Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, and spray with nonfat cooking spray.

Remove fries from bowl, gently shaking off any excess dripping egg white, and place onto prepared baking sheet.

Place in oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Then remove the baking sheet from the oven, and carefully remove the parchment paper, sliding the fries directly onto the baking sheet.

Place back into the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the outside, but soft on the inside. Make sure to toss the fries around about every 8 minutes to ensure even crisping.

To make cheese sauce, place milk, cream cheese, garlic and shredded cheese into a small sauce pan and set over medium heat. Stir constantly until all cheese is melted and combined. If sauce is too thick, you can thin in out using some additional milk, adding tablespoon by tablespoon as necessary to achieve desired consistency.

Serve fries with cheese sauce drizzled over them or on the side for dipping.

Nutritional Information (from MyFitnessPal)
Calories: 223; Total Fat: 4 g; Saturated Fat 4 g ; Monounsaturated Fat: 0 g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 0 g; Trans Fat: 0 g; Cholesterol: 18 mg; Sodium: 217 mg; Potassium: 831 mg; Total Carbohydrate: 35 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Sugars: 4 g; Protein: 8 g

Potato Salad with Dill + Horseradish Aioli

This came across Pinterest and looked really good. And I thought it would be really good with a fish like salmon or tuna.  I showed D and he said ok.

We had with salmon.  It was really good, and D seemed to make it fast considering I was watching TV and playing with the dogs in the living room.

We would have again.

Potato Salad with Dill + Horseradish Aioli

Source: From A Thought for Food which was adapted from Vegetarian Everyday by David Frenkiel + Luise Vindahl

Yield: Serves 6 with the fish we had

Photo By ALB

Ingredients
2 lb – 3 oz small new potatoes
15-20 red and yellow cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh sugarsnap peas, sliced lengthwise
1 large handful of fresh dill, coarsely chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Horseradish Dressing
2 egg yolks
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¾ cup canola oil
1 tablespoon prepared horesradish

Instructions
Place the potatoes in a saucepan with just enough cold salted water to cover. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer for 15 minutes. Test with a small sharp knife. If the potatoes fall off the knife, they’re done.

Drain and set aside to cool.

To make the horseradish dressing, whisk the egg yolks, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon salt. Slowly drizzle in the canola oil while whisking nonstop until the mixture begins to emulsify. Continue to whisk in the oil until mixture has achieved a thick, mayonnaise-like consistency. Whisk in the horseradish and, if necessary, season with additional salt and pepper.

Combine the tomatoes, peas and dill in a large serving bowl.

When the potatoes have cooled, transfer them to the serving bowl. Pour the dressing over them and toss with your hands to coat with the aioli. Serve.

Nutritional Information (from My Fitness Pal)
6 servings (not including fish)
Calories: 406; Total Fat: 30 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Monounsaturated Fat: 17 g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 9 g; Trans Fat: 0 g; Cholesterol: 70 mg; Sodium: 450 mg; Potassium: 968 mg; Total Carbohydrate: 31 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 4 g; Protein: 5 g

Curried Cumin Potatoes

So I'm not typically impressed with potatoes sauteed in a pan.  They lack flavor and inevitably need kecthup regardless of what's on them.

These however, wow!  A ton of flavor.  They were slightly on the salty side, but they also had a big curry flavor.  They were really good witht the Yogurt-Paprika Chicken with Lemon.

Will have again.

Curried Cumin Potatoes

Photo by ALB

From Allrecipes.com
Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes
Ready In: 35 Minutes
Servings: 8

"A flavorful side dish of Indian cuisine. This dish blends the mild flavor of cumin with the unrelenting spice of curry. A truly engaging dish."

Ingredients
2 pounds new potatoes, cut into 1/4 inch thick pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons cumin seed
2 teaspoons ground turmeric
2 teaspoons curry powder
2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation
1. Place whole potatoes into a saucepan with water to cover. Bring to a boil, and cook until just tender. Drain, and cut potatoes into quarters. Set aside to keep warm.

2. Heat oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Saute the cumin, turmeric, and curry powder for 1 minute. Add potatoes, and saute until toasted. Toss potatoes with sea salt, pepper and fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

Nutrition Information
Calories: 128; Total Fat: 4g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 451mg; Total Carbs: 21.4g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Protein: 2.7g

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

So I think my friend NCBeaches told me about this recipe. If she didn't, I will give her credit for telling me about the Slow Roasted Italian.

Anyway, back to the potatoes. I have made mashed potatoes in the crockpot for holidays before and honestly it works so well. You have no one in the Meat Preparer's way because potatoes seem to have to be made at the last minute so they aren't cold. I was going to make these (because honestly I don't remember how I made the potatoes I made previously and it was before I started this blog), but I have a leg injury at the moment so D made them.

We halved the recipe, and there was still leftovers after 4 adults ate. They had a good garlic taste (I assume D added more), and more importantly, they were HOT!

When asking D about the ease, he said they were quite possibly the easiest mashed potatoes he ever made. He said if you wanted to get fancy to either change the cream cheese to flavored cream cheese or something like Camembert or Brie.

We'll have again.

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes in foreground- Photo by ALB

Recipe by The Slow Roasted Italian
SERVES 12 | ACTIVE TIME 20 Min | TOTAL TIME 3 Hours 20 Minutes

Ingredients
1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened (used salted)
5 pounds red potatoes, washed and cut into 1/2" pieces
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
8 ounces cream cheese (used light)
1/2 cup sour cream (used light)
1 teaspoon finely minced garlic (3-4 cloves)
1-2 teaspoons kosher salt (to taste)
1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Preparation
Butter inside of crock with butter and leave remaining butter on the bottom of the dish. Add potatoes and cover. Cook on high 3 hours or 5-6 hours on low.

Remove cover, once potatoes are fork tender (meaning they break apart when you put a fork into a potato), add milk and cream. Mash with potato masher until desired consistency is reached. Add remaining ingredients and stir to combine.

Serve and enjoy!

Roasted Parmesan Rosemary Potatoes

Like most roasted potatoes, these smell better than they actually are.  They were good, but I didn't feel they were anything special.  However, unlike usual, I refrained from putting ketchup on them (I put ketchup on most "French Fry-like" potatoes).

I'd still have them again.  We had with Chicken with Beer and Honey.

Roasted Parmesan Rosemary Potatoes

Photo by ALB

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 40 Minutes
Ready In: 55 Minutes

Ingredients
1.50 lb(s), New Red Potato With Skin
3.00 tbsp., Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2.00 tbsp, Cheese - Parmesan, shredded
1.00 tbsp, Spices - Rosemary, fresh
0.25 tsp, Salt - Coarse Kosher
0.25 tsp(s), Spices - Pepper, black

Preparation
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Mix potatoes, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and rosemary in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Spread potato mixture over prepared baking sheet.

Bake in preheated oven until potatoes are golden brown and tender, stirring once, about 40 minutes.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 221; Total Fat: 11 g; Saturated Fat: 1 g; Monounsaturated Fat: 8 g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g; Trans Fat: 0 g; Cholesterol: 2 mg; Sodium: 194 mg; Potassium: 781 mg; Total Carbohydrate: 27 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Sugars: 2 g; Protein: 4 g;

Pagash AKA Pierogi Pizza

So my friend Lisa Marie gave me this recipe awhile ago.  She got it from Bonbons and Biscotti.  I had never heard of such a thing.  Being that I love pierogies, I decided D and I should have it.  D made it (shocker, I know...) and it was everything I hoped it would be.  The only thing differently I would have done is sautee the onions for  few minutes before putting on the pizza to get the raw flavor out of them.

You should have it.

Pagash AKA Pierogi Pizza

Photos by ALB

Ingredients
1 package Fleischmann's pizza crust yeast and the ingredients listed on the package for preparation or you could by a pizza dough ball in your local bakery
2 cups mashed potatoes with 1/2 cup sharp Cheddar cheese added (we used Simply Potatoes Mashed Potatoes and added cheese)
4-6 Tbsp butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 medium onion, sliced into very thin rings
1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded

Instructions
(This is a step we skipped by buying Simply Potatoes Mashed Potatoes).  Prepare potatoes and allow to cool slightly, about 1 hour. It is best to make the potatoes a little dry especially if you normally make them very whipped. A thick, creamy mashed potato is best. I normally peel and boil about 5 medium size russet potatoes, cut them into uniform squares, cover them in water and boil them until fork tender. I then drain them and add 1/4 cup milk and 4 Tbsp salted butter. I add 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp fresh ground pepper. I then mash until smooth. Add the cheese and allow to sit covered so the cheese can melt. This recipe makes more then the suggested 2 cups but I love leftovers. As I suggested you can use your own recipe here. If you like to add sour cream or other ingredients feel free. Just remember, you want the potatoes so be thick.

After your potatoes have cooled for about 1 hour it is time to make the crust. I follow the directions on the package for preparation. The one change it do make is I hand toss the dough and then roll it onto a pizza stone. I then par bake the crust for about 6 minutes at 425 degrees. Since I do not have a pizza oven at my house (and who does), I like to par bake the crust so it is browned on the bottom and it allows for a much more durable layer to hold all the potatoes and cheese.

While the crust is baking I melt my butter in the microwave in a small mug and add the 3 cloves of minced garlic to make a garlic butter sauce. Also add the Italian Seasoning. After taking the crust out of the oven.

I spread the garlic butter all over the crust. I then add the mashed potatoes over the butter. Spread them evenly (like icing) with a rubber scraper or offset knife. I then layer on the onion ringd. Then the 3 types of cheese.

Place the pizza in the oven and bake at 425 for 15-17 minute. At this time, I set the oven to Broil and allow the pizza in the oven until the cheese is slightly brown; about 3-4 minutes.

Remove the pizza from the oven and allow to cool 8-10 minutes before cutting. The potatoes will solidify a little and you will have pretty slices.

Gnocchi with Asparagus and Pancetta

So a couple of years ago, the only place we could find gnocchi was at the Dekalb Farmer's Market.  Even Whole Foods didn't carry it.  Since then, we never really ate it because it was so hard to find.  However, I've notice that Kroger started carrying it.  Then CL emailed me this recipe. 

I shared with D and we decided to have it.  It was really good, although there is a strong vinegar flavor, which D looked at me oddly when I said that.  It must be the lemon juice.  I still tasted it in the left overs, but like I said, I liked it.

Would have again.

Gnocchi with Asparagus and Pancetta

Photo by ALB

Pancetta is cured unsmoked Italian bacon available at the grocery deli counter. It gives this elegant dish a deep, savory note. If you can't find gnocchi, substitute another short pasta.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 1 1/2 cups gnocchi mixture and 1 tablespoon cheese)
Total:30 Minutes

Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) package vacuum-packed gnocchi (such as Vigo)
2 ounces pancetta, cut into thin strips (about 1/2 cup)
1/4 cup thinly sliced shallots
1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup (1 ounce) shaved Parmesan cheese

Preparation
1. Cook gnocchi according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain in a colander over a bowl, reserving 1/4 cup cooking liquid. Keep warm.

2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add pancetta; sauté 3 minutes or until lightly browned. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate.

3. Add shallots and asparagus to pan; sauté 5 minutes or until tender. Stir in garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add gnocchi, pancetta, reserved cooking liquid, juice, salt, and pepper to pan; cook 1 minute. Serve with cheese.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 277; Calories from fat: 21%; Fat: 6.5g; Saturated fat: 3.1g; Monounsaturated fat: 2.5g; Polyunsaturated fat: 0.1g; Protein: 11.2g; Carbohydrate: 43.7g; Fiber: 2.6g; Cholesterol: 15mg; Iron: 2.6mg; Sodium: 932mg; Calcium: 110mg

Cooking Light APRIL 2008

Chicken Schnitzel and Smashed Mustard Potatoes

This was in the newest CL, so I didn't think to check the reviews. Had I, I would have known it got 5 stars therefore we would not like it.  On their site, I gave it 2 because we liked the potatoes.

Overally, the chicken tasted like a plain "fried" piece of chicken.  We both thought with a roll, cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo it would be good. D said, on a blue cheese Buffalo burger as well (I'll take his word for it.)  We both thought it was similar to Yolanda's Famous Chicken, except Yolanda's Chicken is actually good.

Overall, we would have the potatoes again, but definitely not the chicken.

Chicken Schnitzel and Smashed Mustard Potatoes

Photo by ALB

Yield: Serves 4 (serving size: 1 chicken breast half and 1/2 cup potatoes)

Ingredients
1 pound small red potatoes, halved
1/3 cup unsalted chicken stock (such as Swanson)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
4 (6-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, pounded to 1/4-inch thickness
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup fat-free milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cooking spray
4 teaspoons olive oil, divided

Preparation
1. Place potatoes in a large saucepan; cover with water. Bring to a boil. Cook 12 minutes or until tender; drain. Return potatoes to pan; mash to desired consistency. Stir in stock, green onions, mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

2. Sprinkle chicken with remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper and salt. Place flour in a shallow dish. Combine milk and egg in a shallow dish. Combine panko, parsley, and garlic powder in a shallow dish. Dredge chicken in flour. Dip in milk mixture; dredge in panko mixture, shaking off excess. Lightly coat breaded chicken with cooking spray.

3. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 teaspoons oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add 2 chicken breast halves to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until chicken is done. Remove chicken from pan; keep warm. Repeat procedure with remaining 2 teaspoons oil and remaining 2 chicken breast halves.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 433; Fat: 11g; Saturated fat: 2g; Monounsaturated fat: 5.1g; Polyunsaturated fat: 1.5g; Protein: 44g; Carbohydrate: 37g; Fiber: 3g; Cholesterol: 156mg; Iron: 2mg; Sodium: 508mg; Calcium: 58mg

Cooking Light AUGUST 2014