Spring is the time to enjoy asparagus at its finest. Look for firm stalks, with the buds still tight. Asparagus is incredibly versatile in that it can be grilled, roasted, steamed, or blanched as in this recipe or for a surprise addition to a veggie tray. Cook more than you need for a meal… there are always uses for leftovers.
Category: Recipes
EatingWell Deviled Eggs
April is the month for too-many hard cooked eggs! Try this lighter version of deviled eggs for a guilt free way to enjoy them. Eggs are a complete protein, and the addition of cottage cheese offsets the fat in the mayo while adding some creaminess. Check out the EatingWell website for the rave reviews!
Easy Corn Casserole
This recipe is a lightened-up version of a holiday favorite. It would also make a great addition to a Mexican meal with a dollop of salsa and a side of black beans. If you can’t find no-salt-added whole kernel corn, you can substitute thawed and drained frozen corn.
Mini Meatloaves
This recipe is a great way to portion control your meats and packs well for an easy lunch. Since pre-ground meats often come in 1 lb. packs, try doubling this recipe and freezing the leftovers for another dinner. The oats aren’t enough to add significant fiber, but they hold moisture. If your family likes mushrooms, you can try adding some of those (chopped) too.
Roasted Cabbage with Chive-Mustard Vinaigrette
There are lots of ways to incorporate cabbage in your diet, even after St. Patrick’s Day. Roasting vegetables is a heart-healthy cooking technique that produces tasty results. The basic components are a lower-moisture vegetable, some olive oil for water retention and a very high heat. One of the ways to decrease the fat content is to use a brush or olive oil mister to distribute the oil evenly without using more than is needed.
Mexican Pasta Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
This covered dish favorite can be made a day ahead of time, with the dressing added up to an hour before serving. Avocados are good sources of heart-healthy fats, and since this recipe only calls for half, try doubling the dressing and using the extra dressing on grilled vegetables. The acid in the dressing will keep the avocado from browning the way it would if left wrapped in the refrigerator.
Chicken Breasts With Mushroom Cream Sauce
On the “fancier” side of weeknight cooking, this recipe is a lower-fat version of a typical chicken in cream sauce.
Chicken with Gorgonzola-Tomato Salsa
Try a new twist on chicken! Too busy? Consider purchasing already prepared salsa, add cheese and top on chicken.
Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A and a good source of vitamin C. Incorporating vegetables into your meals will help you meet all of your nutrient needs.
Lunch Shake
Smoothies are an easy way to meet your fruit and vegetable needs for the day. Here’s a nutrient-dense, protein packed shake that can be enjoyed for any meal or snack during the day.