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2013-05-23 01:01:22

Dill Citrus Salmon

When I think about fast food, this is one dish that always comes to mind.  I purchase my salmon at a ”big box store” on the weekend, cut off the amount I would need within the next couple of days and freeze the rest for another night.  I know after a long day of work, I can make this dinner in 30 minutes or less.  This recipe is healthy, simple and fast.  Pair it with mashed sweet potatoes and garlic broccoli.  Want to see how simple this recipe really is?  Watch the NutritionBabes make their Dill Citrus Salmon.  Enjoy!

Ingredients:
1 pound wild salmon filet
2 oranges
fresh dill to taste
sea salt to taste

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Spray broiler pan with nonstick spray.  Place salmon is center of broiler pan, skin side down.  Squeeze juice of oranges over salmon, sprinkle salt to taste and cover salmon with fresh dill sprigs to taste.  Bake in oven for approximately 20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily.


Serves 4:
Per serving: 236 calories, 10g fat, 1.5 g saturated fat, 70 mg cholesterol, 92 mg sodium, 2.5 g fiber, 8 g sugar, 25 g protein.

 

Tips and Twists:
Orange juice can be substituted for fresh oranges.  Pour ¾ cup orange juice over salmon and add salt and dill to taste.  Water can be added to the bottom of the broiler pan to prevent the orange juice from smoking.  Orange slices can be added to garnish the salmon.

 

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2013-05-19 21:21:33

Oat and Pumpkin Breakfast Pie

It’s Recipe Redux week! Each month we are challenged to make over or create a new, healthy recipe based on a theme.  April showers sometimes bring May flowers...but in the case of The Recipe Redux, May brings shower brunches: Bridal showers, baby showers, and graduations parties. Our healthy brunch recipe this month is an Oat and Pumpkin Breakfast Pie.  It can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, a big plus when planning a party.  You can alter the sweetness by adding extra banana, raisins, sugar or other sweetener of choice.  It’s also fantastic with a touch of maple syrup or nut butter. If you take care to use gluten free versions of the ingredients such as the oats, this recipe can also be enjoyed by your gluten free family and friends.

2 cups old-fashioned oats (gluten free)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
½ teaspoon salt
2 Tablespoons organic cane sugar
½ cup canned pumpkin
½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
½ cup 0% plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup egg whites
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:
2/3 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
2 Tablespoons canned pumpkin
a few dashes of pumpkin pie spice

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine first 5 dry ingredients. 

In a separate bowl, combine the remainder of the wet ingredients.  Add oat mixture and gently stir until fully combined.

Coat a round cake/pie pan with nonstick spray.  Pour the mixture into the pan and spread it evenly.

Bake for 35 minutes or until golden brown and set.

Let cool and cut into 5 slices. 

Combine topping ingredients in a small bowl. Add a dollop of yogurt/pumpkin mix to each piece and serve. Garnish with extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. If you prefer a little extra sweetness, drizzle 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup over each piece.

Serves 5:
226 calories, 3g fat, 0mg chol, 419mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate, 6g fiber, 14g sugar, 12g protein



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2013-02-03 16:30:05

Tamari Freekeh with Sesame Chicken, Scallions and Cashews

If you are asking, “What’s Freekeh?”, you are in for a treat.  It’s a process which means “to rub” in Arabic.  It was created by accident nearly 2,000 years ago when a Middle Eastern village was attacked and their crop of young green wheat was set ablaze.  The crafty villagers rubbed off the chaff, cooked it up and Freekeh was born. It is similar to brown rice with a chewier texture and a nuttier flavor.

Freekeh is a healthy, whole grain with 8 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per serving.  It is simple to cook, just like rice.  It’s vegetarian, vegan, sustainably produced and not bioengineered.  Freekeh Foods, the brand I used in this recipe, produces 3 delicious flavors: Original, Rosemary Sage, and Tamari.  We were lucky enough to receive samples at a trade show and here is the result:

1 bag Tamari flavored Freekeh (approx. 1 ¼ cups dry)
2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
1 Tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
¼  teaspoon garlic powder
1 Tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green scallions, chopped
¼ cup unsalted cashews, toasted and chopped


Place freekeh and chicken broth in a pot and bring to a boil.  Cover, reduce heat and simmer for approx. 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.  Remove from heat and set aside.  Meanwhile, preheat oven or toaster oven to 400F.  Place chicken on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.  Brush with soy sauce, then sprinkle with garlic powder and sesame seeds.  Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the center is no longer pink and reaches 165 degrees.  When done, dice into bite sized pieces, set aside.  In the same oven or toaster oven, place whole cashews on a foil lined baking sheet.  Bake at 400 degrees or toast for approx. 3 minutes, making sure not to burn the nuts.  Let cool slightly and chop finely.  In a serving bowl, combine cooked freekeh and chicken and toss.  Add chopped scallions and cashews and mix gently. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.

Serves 4
Per serving: 367 calories, 10g fat, 1g sat fat, 72mg chol, 434mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate, 6g fiber, 2g sugar, 38g protein

Tips and Twists:
Freekeh can be cooked in water or low sodium chicken broth, whichever you prefer.  If you cannot find Tamari flavored freekeh, you can add some soy sauce and possibly sesame oil to flavor the freekeh. Start with a tiny bit and add until the desired flavor is reached.  

Freekeh Foods is a client of NutritionBabes, LLC. We were not compensated for this post.

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2013-01-29 14:41:04

NutritionBabes Crab Dip

You will not have any leftovers with this dip and no one will know it’s low fat.  We’ve upped the protein and decreased the calories, making this dip a filling starter.  Serve our Crab Dip at your next get together.  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

12 ounces of crab meat

2 cups low fat cottage cheese

1/2 cup reduced fat cream cheese

1 orange bell pepper (half of pepper diced, other half sliced)

1 yellow bell pepper (half of pepper diced, other half sliced)

1 red bell pepper (half of pepper diced, other half sliced)

3 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning

¼ cup reduced fat (2%) shredded 4 cheese Mexican blend

2 tablespoons green scallions diced

Directions:

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Puree cottage cheese in a blender or mini food processor.  In a medium size bowl combine pureed cottage cheese, crab, cream cheese, diced peppers and Old Bay seasoning.   Spread mixture into a shallow round casserole dish.  Evenly spread shredded cheese on top.  Bake in oven for 15 minutes or until heated through and bubbling on sides.

Sprinkle scallions on top and serve with sliced peppers.

Serves 12

per serving (2 tablespoons):

70 calories, 2.5 g fat, 1.5 g sat fat, 25 mg chol, 160 mg sodium, .5 g fiber, 9 g Pro

Tips and Twists:

Serve with your favorite cut up vegetables or sliced whole grain crackers.  This dip is also made with gluten-free ingredients.

 

 

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2013-01-27 19:15:34

Spicy Gluten Free Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are flavorful AND gluten free.  The trick is using brown rice cereal instead of traditional bread crumbs.  Get the kids involved and let them crush the rice cereal, it’s simple and fun. Cut them into easy dipping strips for a party! 

Makes 5 servings

2 cups crispy brown rice cereal
⅓ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
2 T hot sauce
1 ¼ pounds chicken breast tenderloins or breasts cut into tenderloin shape
nonstick cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Place rice cereal in a large zipper bag, seal and crush with a rolling pin or the back of a spoon.  Pour onto a large, flat plate and set aside.  In a bowl, combine yogurt and hot sauce.  Take each chicken breast, dip in yogurt mixture, dredge in rice cereal, and place on baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.  Spray tops of chicken lightly with cooking spray.  Bake for 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

Per serving:
177 calories, 3.2g fat, 73mg chol, 400mg sodium, .3g fiber, .8g sugar, 26g protein

Tips and Twists:
You can increase or decrease the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste,  and even drizzle extra hot sauce on the chicken or around the plate to serve. 
If spicy is not your preference, try brushing the chicken with mild barbeque sauce prior to breading with the rice cereal.

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2012-12-06 20:37:39

Chipotle Panko Jalapeno Poppers

12 jalapeno peppers, halved and hollowed
½ cup Daisy 2% Cottage Cheese
2 wedges Laughing Cow Queso Fresco with Chipotle spreadable cheese
¼ cup reduced fat shredded Mexican cheese
¼ cup yellow onion, diced
2 egg whites
½ cup plus ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
nonstick cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350F.  Halve and hollow 12 jalapeno peppers and set aside. (wear gloves to avoid skin irritation). In a medium bowl combine cottage cheese, Laughing Cow wedges, shredded Mexican cheese, and diced onion.  Stir to mix well.  Fill each jalapeno half with cheese mixture, filling should be flat and even with top of pepper. Pour ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs and egg white into separate bowls.  Dip bottom of each pepper into egg white and then into Panko and place on baking sheet covered with aluminum foil.  Take remaining Panko in bowl plus additional ¼ cup and sprinkle on top of the filling.  Spray tops lightly with cooking spray and bake for 30-40 minutes or until very tender.  Note: shorter baking time will yield spicier poppers.

Makes 8 servings (3 poppers each)
60 calories, 2g fat, 1g sat fat, 4mg chol, 153mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate, .8g fiber, 2g sugar, 5g protein

This recipe was posted as an entry into a contest sponsored by Daisy Brand cottage cheese.  By entering I was elegible to win prizes. I was not compensated for my time.

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2012-11-21 18:07:42

Roasted Parsnip & Carrot Soup

Thanksgiving is by far my favorite holiday, as well as my family’s.  My mother hosted Thanksgiving dinner for over 40 years until I took it over after I was married.  I learned to love to cook from my mother and she taught me that the fewest ingredients are best.  She always filled our table with fresh, colorful vegetable dishes where you could actually see and taste the vegetables.  They weren’t covered with marshmallows or mixed with cheese.  My mother’s recipes typically included all or some of the following: olive oil, onions, garlic, salt and pepper, and most of these dishes were typically roasted.  The smell of caramelized vegetables in the oven always brought us running.  Many of these roasted vegetables were pureed into soup.  Whatever combination served that year always tasted fabulous!  For many years, the soup was served as an appetizer, but we found we could never get enough.  We now serve this family favorite along with the other sides in larger bowls…it’s that good!  

This recipe was created for The Recipe Redux, a website founded by Registered Dietitians where we will participate in a monthly recipe challenge.  Each month we will makeover an existing recipe in a healthier way, or invent a new one based on the “theme”.  This month’s theme is “Vintage Side Dishes”.

Ingredients:

2 pounds parsnips, peeled and cut into 1 inch slices

2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into 1 inch slices

1 large yellow onion, chopped

2 Tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

8 cups low sodium chicken stock, plus additional to thin to desired consistency

olive oil non-stick spray

 

Directions:

Spray sheet pan with nonstick spray.  Place parsnips, carrots and onions on sheet pan and toss in olive oil and kosher salt.  Roast vegetables for approximately 35 – 40 minutes, turning half way through, and allowing them to become tender and caramelize.  Onions should be translucent.  Remove from oven when done. In a food processor or small blender, puree vegetables in small batches while slowly adding chicken broth. An immersion blender is another option as well.  Once pureed, pour soup into a stockpot and simmer until heated through.  Makes 10 servings.

Per serving:

124 calories, 2.5 g fat, 0 mg chol, 312 mg sodium, 6 g fiber, 4 g protein

 

 

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2012-09-22 22:36:28

Carrot-Ginger Soup with Greek Yogurt

We are proud to be a part of The Recipe Redux, a website founded by Registered Dietitians where we will participate in a monthly recipe challenge.   Each month we will makeover an existing recipe in a healthier way, or invent a new one based on the "theme".  This month's theme is “fermented food”.  There is no doubt that one of our favorite foods is Greek yogurt.  You will typically find us using non-fat Greek yogurt in recipes to replace oil, butter, heavy cream, mayonnaise or sour cream.  The possibilities are endless.  Not only are you reducing the fat and calories in your dishes, but you’re also increasing the calcium, protein and probiotics in your meal.  Enjoy!

2 pounds carrots, peeled & cut into 2 inch pieces

1 Tablespoon olive oil, separated

½ teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger

1 shallot, minced

1 garlic clove, minced

6 cups low sodium chicken stock

olive oil non-stick spray

¾ cup non-fat Greek Yogurt

scallions to garnish

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Spray sheet pan with nonstick spray.  Place carrots on sheet pan and toss in ½ Tablespoon olive oil and kosher salt.  Roast and turn carrots half way through for approximately 35 – 40 minutes allowing carrots to become tender and caramelize.  Remove from oven and set aside.  In a medium stockpot over medium-high heat, add ½ Tablespoon olive oil, fresh ginger, shallots and garlic and sauté until shallots are translucent.  Add carrots and heat another 1 minute.  Puree carrots with chicken broth in a food processor or small blender in small batches.  An immersion blender is another option as well.  Once pureed, pour soup back into stockpot and simmer until heated through.  Pour soup into bowls and top with Greek Yogurt.  Swirl 2 Tablespoons of Greek yogurt into each bowl or leave dollop in the middle.  Garnish with scallions.  Makes 6 servings

 

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2012-09-06 22:17:56

Apple Quinoa Bake

The original version of this recipe came courtesy of my mother-in-law.  It’s been a staple in her house for years.  I made it gluten free by using quinoa instead of Grape Nuts cereal as the added crunch factor. This recipe is so versatile it can be enjoyed with vanilla Greek yogurt for breakfast, with cottage cheese for lunch and with whipped topping or frozen yogurt for dessert.  Try serving it instead of apple pie for family gatherings.  Your guest’s waistlines will thank you.

3 medium-large Gala or Fuji apples, cored and sliced with peel on (approx. 15-18 slices per apple)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup raisins, packed
¼ cup sunflower seeds
2 Tablespoons uncooked quinoa
½ cup water

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Spray a 9x9 brownie pan with cooking spray.  Spread apple slices on bottom of pan.  Sprinkle cinnamon over apples.  Add raisins and sunflower seeds.  Sprinkle on quinoa.  Pour water into corner of pan so it coats the bottom, don’t pour over apples.  Bake for 50 to 60 minutes taking care not to burn the raisins. 

Makes 4 servings.

160 calories, 4g fat, .5g sat fat, 35mg sodium, 6g fiber, 18g sugar, 3g protein

Tips and Twists:
This recipe has no added sugar, and the flavor will vary depending on the sweetness of the apples.  If the apples are on the tart side, you may want to add a small amount of sugar or stevia.

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2012-07-09 21:55:05

Grilled Chicken & Veggie Wraps

4 whole wheat flour tortillas (100 calories each), lightly grilled
8 oz grilled chicken breast, sliced
12 sun dried tomatoes (not in oil), sliced
2 whole roasted red peppers, fresh or jarred, sliced
12 baby bella mushrooms, grilled and sliced
½ cup 2% shredded mozzarella cheese
large handful field greens or spring mix
¼ cup NutritionBabes Greek Yogurt Balsamic Vinaigrette dressing

Divide and layer all ingredients to make 4 wraps.

Per serving:
311 calories, 10g fat, 2g sat fat, 56mg chol, 608mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate, 10g fiber, 9g sugar, 29g protein

Tips and Twists:

-For extra flavor, brush the chicken and mushrooms with balsamic vinegar prior to grilling. 
-Take note of the sodium content of the chicken you purchase as some brands add a significant amount of sodium prior to packaging.
-Portobello mushrooms are delicious in this wrap. For a meatless meal, skip the chicken and add grilled eggplant, zucchini, or other favorite veggies.
-You can easily prepare this on an indoor grill pan, or put the wrap inside a Panini maker to crisp the tortilla and melt the cheese.  YUM!

 

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2012-06-27 16:11:58

Tri Colored Pepper Potato Salad

Potatoes not only taste great, but they're good for you. One medium sized (5.3-ounce) potato, eaten with the skin on has just 110 calories and is packed with more potassium than a banana and half your daily value of vitamin C. Potatoes themselves are naturally fat fee and gluten free!  While potato salad is a much-loved traditional summer side, it can also be heavy on the calories and fat. The United States Potato Board is challenging Recipe ReDux members to create a healthy potato salad dish that is super tasty, but without the extra calories. This recipe uses a modest amount of heart healthy olive oil instead of the traditional mayonnaise.  Also, we added colorful veggies to pump up the nutrition content.  Enjoy!

 

2 pounds red potatoes, chopped
1 tsp salt for the water
1 T apple cider vinegar
1 T Extra Virgin Olive Oil
½ yellow onion, diced, approx 1 cup
½ yellow bell pepper, chopped small
½ orange bell pepper, chopped small
½ red bell pepper, chopped small
3 T white wine
2 T low sodium chicken broth
1 ½ T lemon juice
½ tsp minced garlic
½ tsp Dijon mustard
¾ tsp salt (can use less)
½ tsp black pepper
⅓ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2-3 T fresh parsley, chopped

Chop potatoes, place in pot and cover with water.  Add 1 tsp salt and bring to a boil.  Simmer until just slightly underdone, approx 15 minutes. Remove potatoes from pot with slotted spoon and place in bowl. Add 1 T apple cider vinegar and stir.  Set aside.  Meanwhile, heat 1 T olive oil in sauté pan on med-high heat.  Saute onions for approx 3 minutes, then add all peppers.  Turn down heat to medium and gently sauté for approx 20 minutes.  For last few minutes turn heat to medium high allowing onions and peppers to brown.  While veggies are cooking, in a medium bowl, combine wine, chicken broth, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon, salt and pepper.  Slowly whisk in oil until combined, set aside.  Add veggies to potatoes and slowly add dressing while gently stirring.  Add parsley and place in refrigerator to allow flavors to develop.

Makes 12 (1/2 cup) servings.

129 calories, 7.6g fat, 1.1g sat fat, 0mg chol, 162 mg sodium, 1.7g fiber, 1.5g sugar, 1.7g protein.

By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by the United States Potato Board and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.

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2012-05-30 12:35:32

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

May is Celiac Awareness Month, and in its honor, Frito-Lay is sponsoring a recipe contest. As members of The Recipe ReDux we were challenged to create a gluten-free recipe using one of Frito-Lay’s gluten-free chips containing 3 simple ingredients (corn, oil and salt).  This recipe is perfect for the summer and great to serve at your weekend BBQ, enjoy!

 

1 ¼ pounds cherry tomatoes

nonstick olive oil spray

2 cloves garlic

21 Tostitos Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips

8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese

basil leaves

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 

Grease pan with nonstick spray.  Slice cherry tomatoes in half and place on pan, cut side up.  In a food processor, pulse garlic cloves and tortilla chips until you achieve breadcrumb consistency.  Sprinkle crumb mixture evenly over tomatoes.  Roast tomatoes approximately 15 minutes until soft and beginning to shrivel on edges.  Slice mozzarella cheese in thin slices and place on platter.  Pile roasted tomatoes over mozzarella and garnish with basil.  Can be made ahead of time and served warm or chilled.

Serves 8.

Per serving:

105 calories, 6.5 g fat, 3 g sat fat, 114 mg sodium, 5.5g PRO

By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Frito-Lay and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.

 

 

 

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2012-05-23 19:44:59

Artichoke Dip

This recipe typically includes higher fat foods, more calories and extra sodium.  We changed out the ingredients to provide our families with a healthier twist on this party favorite.  We dished them out to the kids in festive, portion controlled cupcake wrappers.  It was a big hit for us, I’m sure it will be for you as well.

 

2 (14 oz) cans artichoke hearts packed in water, drained

2 cups plain low-fat Greek Yogurt

1 cup almond cheese – mozzarella style, grated (such as Lisanatti Original Almond www.lisanatti.com)

1/4 cup mayonnaise made with olive oil

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

 

Puree artichoke hearts in food processor.  Remove and discard any tough leaves if unable to puree.  Transfer to a medium size bowl and mix in Greek yogurt, grated almond cheese and mayonnaise.   Transfer and evenly spread into 9 inch round, glass pie dish.  Bake in oven for approximately 30 minutes.  Serve with cut-up veggies or tortilla chips.

 

1 serving = 2 T
50 calories, 3 g fat, .5 g sat fat, 5 mg chol, 55 mg sodium, 1 g fiber, 3.5 g PRO

We were provided with product samples to use in this recipe, we were not compensated for our time.

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2012-05-23 17:04:13

Ground Turkey Kebabs

We’ve spiced up the BBQ with a twist of Greek!  The Mediterranean diet is a way of eating that focuses on consuming many vegetables, fruits, whole grains, olive oil, low fat dairy and lean meat.  It incorporates the basics of healthy eating with traditional cooking styles of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.  So, we’ve brought a little bit of Greece to your grill that everyone will love.  Enjoy!

 8 oz sliced mushrooms, rinsed and drained well

1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

1 cup water

1/2 cup quinoa

1 lb. ground turkey meat (93% lean or less)

1 Tablespoon enchilada sauce seasoning packet 

 

Soak kebab skewers for at least 30 minutes in cool water.  Heat olive oil in a medium size pan and sauté mushrooms until tender.  Drain mushrooms in colander over sink and allow to cool.  Dice mushrooms or pulse in food processor and set aside.  Meanwhile in a sauce pan boil 1 cup of water, add 1/2 cup quinoa and bring back to a boil, cover, cook over medium heat for approximately 6-8 minutes or until all water is absorbed.  Remove from heat, fluff, cover and let stand for 10 minutes.  In a large bowl, add ground turkey, seasoning, mushrooms and quinoa and mix until well combined.  Roll meat into a ball and put one on each skewer.  Place skewers on a cookie sheet.  Flatten each ball into a thick oval shaped patty.   Makes 8 (4 oz) ground turkey kebabs.  Place all kebabs in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.   Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly oil grate.  Grill Kebabs on each side approximately 5 minutes or until cooked through.  Serve with cut-up veggies, grilled pita and our Tzatziki-Cucumber Yogurt Dip.  Delicious!

Makes 8 (4 oz) portions.  1 skewer = 1 serving

Nutrient Analysis per serving for ground turkey patty only

145 calories, 5 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 125 mg sodium, 2 g fiber, 14 g PRO

 

 

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2012-05-11 10:44:26

Nutty Apple Cake

2 T light whipped butter
¾ cup sugar
¼ cup egg substitute or 3T egg whites
1 tsp. vanilla extract
3 cups peeled, diced apples (approx 3-4 medium apples)
½ tsp. cinnamon
½ tsp. nutmeg
½ tsp. salt
1 cup white whole wheat flour
1 tsp. baking soda
½ cup chopped walnuts
2 apples, peeled and sliced (approx 18 slices per apple)
1 T Confectioner’s sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Cream whipped butter and sugar.  Add egg beaters, vanilla and diced apples. Stir to combine and set aside.  Sift dry ingredients (if you cannot sift, whisk instead), and add nuts.  Combine wet and dry ingredients well.  Pour into a 9 inch round baking pan sprayed with nonstick cooking spray (the dough will be dense).  Arrange apple slices in a circular pattern on top of dough.  Bake for 40-50 minutes until toothpick comes out clean.  Remove from oven and allow cake to cool.  Transfer to a serving plate and sift Confectioner’s sugar on top.

Serves 10.
180 calories, 4g fat, .4g sat fat, 244mg sodium, 3g fiber, 16g sugar, 3g protein

Tips and Twists:
Make sure cake is completely cooled prior to dusting with powdered sugar.  If still warm, the sugar will absorb into the apples.  This is also delicious served warm with a small portion of vanilla frozen yogurt or light whipped topping.

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2012-04-29 23:14:47

Mediterranean Salad with Greek Yogurt Balsamic Vinaigrette

 

5 oz spring mix greens

15 oz can chick peas, rinsed

1 lb heirloom tomatoes, chopped

2 cucumbers, peeled and chopped

2 oz slivered almonds

1/2 red onion, diced

Add greens to a large bowl.  Decorate top of greens with chick peas, tomatoes, cucumbers, almonds and red onions. Serve dressing on side.

 

NutritionBabes Greek Yogurt Balsamic Vinaigrette

1/4 C Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 C nonfat Greek yogurt (such as Chobani Greek Yogurt www.chobani.com)
1/2 C balsamic vinegar
3 teaspoons honey
salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients into a small bowl and whisk until well combined.   

Makes 8 servings

 

 

 

 

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2012-03-28 18:53:42

Avocado Deviled Eggs

6 hard boiled eggs 
3/4 avocado
1/2 cup non-fat plain Greek Yogurt

Salt to taste
Paprika to garnish

Peel and slice eggs evenly and remove yolks.  Add 4 yolks, avocado and Greek yogurt to a small bowl and mash until smooth.  Discard remaining yolks.  Spoon mixture in each egg white.  Garnish with paprika.  Makes 6 servings.

2 egg halves = 1 serving (without salt)
110 calories, 6 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 0.5 g poly fat, 2 g mono fat, 145 mg chol, 75 mg sodium, 1.5 g fiber, 7.5 g PRO

Tips and Twists:
Deviled eggs are great served as an appetizer, side dish, snack or small meal.  Get creative and top with diced tomatoes or peppers.  Also, they can be served warm and topped with scallions or sautéed onions.  Serve them over a bed of greens and add a side of fruit.  The ideas are endless, enjoy! 

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2012-03-27 10:13:48

Spinach and Mushroom Quinoa

1 cup quinoa, pre-rinsed
2 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 T olive oil
1 tsp chopped garlic
8 oz white mushrooms, cleaned and rinsed
6 oz fresh spinach

Combine Quinoa and chicken broth in a sauce pan.  Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil and then lower the heat, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender, about 10-15 minutes.  Quinoa should be chewy with white spiral-like threads around each grain.  Meanwhile, in a large saute pan heat olive oil and garlic.  Add mushrooms and saute for approximately 5 minutes over medium heat.  Fold in spinach and continue to mix for approximately 2 minutes or spinach is limp.  Add cooked quinoa to saute pan and combine well.  Serves 8.

1/2 cup (loosely packed) Per Serving:
120 calories, 5g fat, 1g sat fat, 40mg sodium, 2g fiber, 5g PRO

 

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2012-03-13 15:10:16

Broiled Salmon over Sautéed Cabbage with Turkey Bacon

Salmon:

4 (4 oz) salmon fillets

 

Cabbage:

4 slices turkey bacon

1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

¾ of a yellow onion, shredded and chopped

1 Tablespoon crushed garlic

½ head green cabbage, shredded and chopped

 

Preheat broil

Grease broil pan with non stick spray.  Add salmon fillets and broil for 5 – 7 min until cooked through or reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees.

In a large skillet, cook turkey bacon over medium high heat turning until crispy.  Remove bacon and place on a plate covered with a paper towel to absorb grease.  Add oil into pan of bacon drippings.  Sauté onions and garlic until onions are translucent.  Add cabbage and cover with a lid.  Stir occasionally making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan.  Dice cooked bacon and add to pan.  Sauté approximately 10 – 15 minutes until cabbage is limp and translucent.  

Makes 4 servings

Per serving 320 calories, 18g fat, 3g sat fat, 81 mg chol, 200 mg sodium, 3 g fiber, 30 g protein (salmon and cabbage)

Tips and Twists:

Serve this holiday alternative with a slice of our NutritionBabes Irish Soda Bread and Organic Honey Mustard on the side.  

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2012-02-19 19:36:51

 

Roasted Beet and Pear Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

1 cup baby spinach leaves
1 cup arugula leaves
1 large orange, peeled, outer membrane removed and sliced into medallions
1 pear, peeled and sliced into medallions removing center seeds and core**
2 beets, roasted, peeled and sliced into medallions (for roasting directions see below)
2 T crumbled goat cheese
2 T chopped pecans

Citrus Vinaigrette:
1 T extra virgin olive oil
1 T red wine vinegar
1 T orange juice
1½ tsp. honey
¼ tsp. Kosher salt
⅛ tsp. black pepper

On 2 plates spread spinach leaves on the perimeter and place tufts of the arugula in the center. On 4 sides of each plate layer an orange slice, pear slice and beet slice. If beet slices remain, chop them into small pieces and sprinkle on the center of plate.  Scatter goat cheese and pecans.  Divide dressing and pour evenly over salad.

**Slice pear into circles without removing the seeds. Remove the center of each slice that contains any core or seeds.  When you layer the salad, cover the hole in the pear by placing the beet over it.

To roast beets: Scrub well, place in foil and seal foil like a packet.  Place in 400 degree oven for approx 1 hour or until tender.  Wait until cool enough to handle and peel.

Serves 2
280 calories, 15g fat, 3.2g sat fat, 5mg chol, 239mg sodium, 6g fiber, 24g sugar, 5g protein

 

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2012-02-07 18:22:36

 

Sautéed  Asparagus  and Garlic

1 bundle of asparagus (10-12 spears), sliced in bite size pieces
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1-2 cloves of garlic or 1 teaspoon of crushed jarred garlic
salt and pepper to taste 


Heat olive oil on medium-high heat.  Add garlic and heat for approximately 1 minute.  Add asparagus and sauté until tender.  Makes 4 servings

Per serving:
45 calories, 3g fat, .5g sat fat, 2 mg sodium, 1.5g fiber, 2g PRO

 

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2012-01-31 13:50:48

 

Strawberry Cheesecake 

Cheesecake:
nonstick cooking spray
4 sheets (16 crackers) low fat honey graham crackers - look for a brand with NO partially hydrogenated oils!
8 ounces fat free cream cheese spread
8 ounces 1/3 less fat cream cheese ( Neufchatel cheese)
8 ounces nonfat plain Greek yogurt 
1 cup egg substitute
½ cup sugar
3 T Truvia spoonable granulated sweetener
½ tsp vanilla extract
8 ounces fat free sour cream

Topping:
4-5 cups unsweetened frozen strawberries, defrosted
1 tsp granulated Truvia
1 tsp corn starch
juice of ½ lemon

In a gallon size plastic bag, crush graham crackers.  Take a Springform pan and spray bottom and sides with nonstick cooking spray. Press graham crackers into bottom of pan and set aside.  In a blender or food processor add fat free cream cheese and ¼ cup of egg beaters and blend.  Then add 1/3 less fat cream cheese plus ¼ cup egg beaters and blend.  Then add Greek yogurt with ¼ cup egg beaters and blend.  Add last ¼ cup egg beaters, sugar, 3T Truvia, and vanilla and blend until smooth.  Pour mixture into Springform pan and bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes.  Remove from oven, spread sour cream on top and return to oven for 5-10 minutes.  Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.  Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. 

Topping:
Separate juice from strawberries and place in a saucepan.  Add1 tsp.Truvia, corn  starch and lemon juice and cook until thickened over medium heat.  Meanwhile, if strawberries are whole, chop them to desired bite sizes and add to juice mix once juice is thickened.  Transfer to dish, cover and refrigerate. 

To serve:
Slice cheesecake into 16ths and serve with strawberry sauce and sliced almonds if desired.

Serves 16
131 calories, 3.2g fat, 2g sat fat, 12mg chol, 210mg sodium, 1g fiber, 12g sugar, 7g protein

 


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2012-01-31 13:44:12

 

Chicken Cacciatore

3 pounds raw split chicken breast on bone, skin removed
1/4 cup white whole wheat flour
black pepper to taste
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
2 small green bell peppers, sliced into ¼ inch strips
12 oz white mushrooms, sliced
1(25 ounce) jar of marinara sauce (preferably low sodium)
1/2 cup red wine


Cut chicken breasts to equal about 8oz each (including bone). Add desired amount of pepper to flour. Dredge chicken in flour and discard extra.  Heat a large saucepan with lid on medium-high heat and add olive oil.  Saute chicken for 7 minutes.  Turn chicken and cook additional 7 minutes.  Add green peppers, mushrooms, sauce and wine.  Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Serve over a whole grain such as whole wheat pasta, brown rice or quinoa.

Serves 6
(Chicken Cacciatore only) 371 calories, 8.5g fat, 1.3g sat fat, 122mg chol, 404mg sodium, 4g fiber, 7g sugar, 54g protein

 

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2012-01-22 20:59:00

 

Winter White Chili

1 ¼ pounds lean ground turkey or chicken
2 teaspoons light flavored olive oil
1 cup onion, chopped
4 oz can green chilies
¾ teaspoon dried oregano
¾ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 (15) ounce cans great northern beans, well rinsed
3 cups low sodium chicken broth (preferably gluten free)
1 ½ Tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Heat a large pot or stock pot over medium-high heat.  Add turkey/chicken and cook until no longer pink, drain, and remove from pot.  Wipe out pot with paper towel or wash if necessary.  Return to medium heat and add 2 tsp light olive oil. Add onions and sauté until softened, approx 5 minutes.  Add chilies, oregano, cumin and cayenne. Cook stirring occasionally for approx 5 minutes.  Add beans and broth, increase heat to medium high and bring to a simmer. Cook for additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Add vinegar and cooked turkey/chicken and cook for additional 5 minutes.

Serves 6:
294 calories, 9g fat, 2g sat fat, 54mg chol, 155mg sodium, 10g fiber, 3g sugar, 26g protein
(sodium level is an estimate based on the rinsing of the beans, it may actually be higher)

Tips and Twists:
This spiciness of recipe can be easily adjusted.  Some may prefer additional cayenne or hot sauce which will not significantly alter the nutritional information.  Add some reduced fat shredded cheddar cheese or light sour cream for variety. 

 

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2012-01-14 13:01:11

 

Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms

1 pound boneless chicken breast (either tenderloins or cut into 1 inch strips)
2 Tablespoons white whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon olive oil
olive oil cooking spray
6 cloves garlic (peeled and sliced, not minced)
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
¼ teaspoon thyme
salt and pepper to taste

 Place flour in a gallon sized plastic bag, add chicken and shake to coat.  Add 1 tsp olive oil and cooking spray to pan, sauté chicken for 3 minutes.  Add garlic and turn chicken.  Add mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes.  Add balsamic vinegar, chicken broth and thyme.  Cover and cook on medium to medium-low heat for approximately10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.  Remove chicken only, raise heat to medium/high and cook uncovered for 7-10 minutes or until sauce reduces to desired consistency. 

Serve over brown basmati rice or other favorite whole grain.

Makes 3 servings:
Chicken recipe only: 244 calories, 6g fat, .3g sat fat, 97mg chol, 102mg sodium (without adding salt to taste), 1.8g fiber, 2.2g sugar, 37g protein

 

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2011-11-22 15:03:00

Apple Stuffing

2 whole wheat baguettes cut into 1 inch cubes
¼ cup olive oil
2 large yellow onions, diced
4 stalks celery, diced
4 Macintosh apples, peeled and diced
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
½ cup low sodium chicken stock
4 Tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
1 Tablespoon sage, minced
1 ½ teaspoon thyme, minced

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Toss bread cubes with 1 Tablespoon olive oil and toast for approximately 20 minutes or until browned.  In a medium sauté pan over medium high heat add remaining olive oil, onions and celery and cook until onions are translucent, approximately 5 minutes.  Add apples and cook for an additional 5 – 7 minutes.  Transfer apple mixture to a large bowl and add bread, applesauce, parsley, sage and thyme.  Mix well while adding in chicken broth slowly.  Grease a large casserole dish with non-stick spray.  Add bread mixture and bake covered for approximately 45 minutes.  Makes 12 servings.  Enjoy!

Per serving:
90 calories, 4.5 g fat, 10 mg sodium, 2.5 g fiber, .5 g protein

Tips and Twists:

Everyone has their idea of the perfect stuffing.  Some like it moist, others like it with more crunch.  Our Apple Stuffing recipe can be adjusted to meet both varities.  For a moister stuffing, allow to cook covered for a bit longer and additional chicken broth can be added gradually throughout baking.  For a cruchier stuffing, leave uncovered when baking for a shorter time, 24-35 minutes.  Both versions can enjoy additional add ons such as: nuts, cranberries, raisins or quinoa.  For a gluten-free variation, try substituting 2 loaves of Canyon Bakehouse 7-Grain Bread www.canyonbakehouse.com.  Leave us a comment about your variation that simply wowed your family, Happy Holidays!

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2011-11-22 15:01:51

 

Cranberry and Apple Chutney

 

Cranberries are one of the few fruits truly native to North America and they are harvested in the fall generally from mid September through mid November.  This makes cranberries the perfect fruit to add to your Thanksgiving or winter holiday dinners.  Cranberries are rich in fiber and a good source of vitamin C and potassium.  Cranberries are also one of the foods highest in antioxidants!  This Chutney is so versatile, it can be served as an appetizer on a whole wheat cracker with a thin slice of brie, with the main entree in place gravy on your turkey, or for dessert over angel food cake.  Best of all it can be made ahead of time and served warmed or chilled.  And if there are any leftovers, serve our chutney stirred into oatmeal for breakfast...delicious!

 

Ingedients:

 

3 tablespoons raw honey
½ cup water
12 ounces fresh cranberries
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and finely chopped
½ onion, peeled and finely chopped
¼ cup golden raisins
¼ cup orange juice
1 teaspoon gluten-free ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon all spice

 

Directions:

 

In a large saucepan over medium heat, bring honey and water to a boil.  Reduce heat to low and slowly add cranberries, apples, onions, raisins, orange juice, cinnamon and all spice.  Return to a boil again and then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for approximately 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Serve warm or chilled.

 

Makes 14 servings.

 

1/3 cup = 1 serving:

 

50 calories, 0 g fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 2 mg sodium, 9 g sugar, 2 g fiber, .5 g protein

 

Tips and Twists:

 

Another great addition to our chutney would be nuts.  Choose your favorite, we love pecans, walnuts or toasted almonds.  Get creative and add more protein and fiber by adding quinoa.  Mixing in cooked quinoa is another secret of ours.  Leave us a comment of your suggestions.  We look forward to hearing from you!

 

 

 

 

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2011-11-15 23:51:04

Wild Blueberry Crisp

 

The aroma of this blueberry crisp baking in the oven will bring your family running!  Little do they know it’s packed with antioxidants, fiber and protein!  Enjoy! 

6 cups frozen wild blueberries 
2 Tablespoons organic raw honey 

½ cup white whole wheat flour
½ cup old fashioned oats
2 Tablespoons brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
½ cup light butter spread

1½ cups (12 oz) vanilla non-fat Greek yogurt 

Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees.  Mix blueberries and honey in a large bowl and pour in a 9 inch diameter pie dish or 11 x 7 baking pan. Combine white whole wheat flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a medium bowl.  Mix well, and then gradually fold in light butter until crumbly.  Spread flour mixture evenly over berries.  Bake for 40 minutes or until berries are bubbling and topping is golden.  Serve warm and top each serving with 2 T vanilla Greek yogurt.  Serves 12.   

120 calories, 2.5 g fat (1 g sat fat, .5 g poly fat, 1.5 g mono fat) 2.5 mg cholesterol, 40 mg sodium, 4 g fiber, 10 g sugar, 4 g protein

 

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2011-11-12 16:10:43

 

Ginger-Honey Salmon

4 (4 oz each) portions of salmon filets
4 T low sodium soy sauce
2 tsp ground ginger
4 T of honey
4 T orange juice
non-stick spray 

Preheat broiler

In a large Ziploc bag combine ginger, soy sauce, honey and orange juice. Mix all ingredients well by kneading sealed bag.  Add salmon and knead sealed bag again. Place sealed bag on a plate in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.  Spray broiler pan with non stick spray.  Remove salmon from marinade.  Allow marinade to drip off into bag before placing on greased pan (at least 1/2 the marinade should remain in bag).  Discard remaining marinade.  Broil salmon about 6 inches from heat source for approximately 6-8 minutes or until flakes when touched with a fork.  Serves 4.

350 calories, 10 g fat (1.5 g sat fat, 2 g poly fat, 4.5 g mono fat) 70 mg chol 200 mg sodium, 24 g protein

 

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2011-10-28 22:25:48

 

NutritionBabes Chicken Marsala

The traditional version of this dish is delicious, but a little lacking in color.  We have spruced up the beauty and the nutrition with added sundried tomatoes and asparagus.  Whole grain flour and bread crumbs add extra fiber.  We served this dish on a bed of quinoa with pine nuts.  Pick your favorite whole grain side: brown rice, whole wheat couscous, quinoa or whole wheat pasta and enjoy!

1 ½ pounds chicken breast (thinly sliced or pounded to even thickness)
¼ cup white whole wheat flour or regular whole wheat flour
black pepper to taste
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
olive oil flavored nonstick spray
10 ounce package of white mushrooms, sliced
½ cup Marsala wine
2 packets reduced or low sodium chicken broth concentrate
1 cup water
¼ cup dry sundried tomatoes, chopped
¾ pound fresh asparagus spears (remove bottoms and chop into thirds)
¼ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)

Season flour with black pepper, dredge chicken in flour.  Heat large pan sprayed with nonstick spray and 2 tsp olive oil on medium-high heat.  Sauté chicken for approximately 5 minutes.  When bottom side is browned, turn and add mushrooms.  Cook  for about 3 minutes until second side of chicken is browned.  Heat cup of water in microwave for 1 minute, add broth packets and stir.  Add wine to broth and pour into pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.  Add sundried tomatoes and chopped asparagus, and gently combine.  Remove pan from heat and transfer contents to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.  Bake in preheated 325 degree oven for approx 25 minutes.  Serve over quinoa or other favorite whole grain side dish.

Serves 4.  306 calories, 8g fat, .7g sat fat, 453mg sodium, 4g fiber, 4g sugar, 42g protein (Chicken Marsala only, side dish is extra)

 

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2011-10-18 10:12:53

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins

 

2 cups pumpkin puree
¾ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt 

½ cup unsweetened applesauce
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour, or white whole wheat flour

½ cup sugar
½ tsp salt
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ground nutmeg
½ cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips
nonstick spray


Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large bowl combine pumpkin, yogurt, applesauce, egg and vanilla.  Mix well.  In a medium bowl combine whole wheat flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and nutmeg.  Mix well.  Gradually combine flour mixture into the large bowl of pumpkin mixture.  Blend well and add mini chocolate chips. 

Spray mini muffin pans with nonstick spray.  Add approximately 1 ½ T of batter into each mini muffin cup.  Bake for 12-15 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Makes 36 mini muffins. 1 muffin = 1 serving
60 calories, 1g fat, 0.5g sat fat, 7 mg chol, 75 mg sodium, 1g fiber, 5g sugar, 2g protein

 

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2011-10-14 20:12:22

Wheat Berry Veggie Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

This recipe is very fresh and light.  It pairs well with any barbecue meats or seafood, and can be made into a rounded meal by adding diced chicken, shrimp, tofu or other protein source.

2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
1 cup uncooked wheat berries* 
nonstick cooking spray
12 oz bag frozen corn
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups baby spinach leaves
1 cup cherry tomatoes
¼ cup red onion, chopped

Dressing:
2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon grated orange peel
2 Tablespoons orange juice
2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or canola oil
1 Tablespoon honey
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon Kosher salt

In a medium saucepan, heat broth and wheat berries to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low, following directions on the package determine cooking time* .  When tender, drain and rinse with cold water.  Drain well and set aside.

While wheat berries are cooking, heat oven (or large toaster oven) to 450F. Spray baking pan with nonstick spray and spread out corn.  Sprinkle with 1/8 tsp Kosher salt, and bake for 12-15 mins. Remove from oven and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl combine wheat berries, corn, spinach, tomatoes and chopped onion.

In a small bowl combine dressing ingredients and whisk well until blended.  Pour over salad and gently mix until well combined. Let stand at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to develop.

Makes 8 servings:
178 calories, 4g fat, .5g sat fat, 78mg sodium, 5g fiber, 5g sugar, 5g protein

*depending on the brand of wheat berries you purchase, the cooking time will vary greatly. Nature’s Earthly Choice (www.earthlychoice.com) is parboiled and will only require 15 minutes to cook.  Some brands can take over an hour and up to 2 hours.

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2011-09-24 19:33:19

 

NutritionBabes Noodle Pudding

NutritionBabes Noodle Pudding is much lower in calories, fat and cholesterol than a traditional noodle pudding.  It's a sweet addition to any holiday meal or other celebration.  Always a crowd pleaser and simple to prepare, it will become a family favorite.  Enjoy!

 

8oz dry wide high fiber egg noodles or other whole grain egg noodles
¼ cup light whipped butter or light butter with olive oil
1 cup sugar
1 ½ cups egg substitute (equals 6 eggs)
1 pound container nonfat sour cream
1 pound container nonfat cottage cheese
1 ½ cups skim milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
3oz  golden raisins (3 large single boxes)
2 medium-large red delicious apples, peeled and grated
Cinnamon on top

Spray a 9x13 glass or Corningware pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.  Cook noodles to lower end of cooking range on package directions. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Drain noodles and transfer to a large bowl.  Add butter and sugar, stir until well combined.  Add remaining ingredients except cinnamon and combine well.  Pour mixture into pan and sprinkle top heavily with cinnamon.  Bake for 15 minutes at 400F and then lower temperature to 325F and bake for 1 hour.  Remove from oven and let set for 5-10 minutes.  Cut into 24 pieces.

Makes 24 servings:

149 calories, 1g fat, .5g sat fat, 4mg chol, 127mg sodium, 2g fiber, 13g sugar, 8g protein

 

Tips and Twists:

You can add different dried fruits to change the flavor.  Apricots, dates, pineapple or other favorites work well.  If you wish to lower the sugar content even further, you can replace 2 teaspoons with one packet of Truvia or stevia.

 

 

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2011-09-20 23:53:38

 

Italian Meatballs

 

Italian Meatballs are great to make on the weekends when more time is available and to serve them all week long in many different meals.  Our healthier version of Italian Meatballs will impress you with their fabulous taste. 

 

1 pound lean ground beef (preferably grass fed)
¼ cup parmesan cheese
¼ cup minced fresh parsley
2 Tablespoons crushed garlic
1 egg
½ cup whole-wheat bread crumbs 
½ cup minced carrots
½ cup minced mushrooms
½ cup minced zucchini
2 jars of low sodium Marinara sauce 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Combine all ingredients, except marinara sauce, in a large bowl and mix well.  Heat the marinara sauce on stove top over medium-low heat.   Roll ground beef mixture into 24, 1 inch balls.  Place meatballs on a broiler pan sprayed with nonstick spray.  Broil 4 inches away from heat until cooked through, approximately 10 minutes. (internal temperature of 165 degrees)   Add meatballs to sauce, cover and cook approximately 10 minutes.  Serve with your favorite whole-wheat pasta, as an appetizer or on a mini whole-wheat bun for the perfect slider.  Enjoy!

 

 

 

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2011-09-06 16:07:54

 

 

 

Banana Pancakes

 

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  Start the morning off right and serve yourself and family our homemade Banana Pancakes!  They'll love our mouth watering healthier version of this all time favorite.  Make the pancakes on the weekend and freeze them for a quick weekday meal.  Enjoy!

 

1 cup White Whole Wheat Flour

1 Tablespoon sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 egg

1 1/4 cups skim milk

2 Tablespoons applesauce

1 ripe banana, mashed

2 ripe bananas, sliced

Non-stick spray

 

Preheat oven to 200 degrees.

 

In a medium bowl combine white whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder and salt and whisk together.  In another bowl combine vanilla extract, egg, skim milk, applesauce and mashed bananas.  Gradually add dry mixture to the banana mixture  and combine well with a spatula.  The batter will be lumpy.  Heat coated skillet or griddle with non-stick spray over medium heat.  Measure 1/4 cup portions of batter and drop onto heated cooking surface.  Cook for approximately 2 - 3 minutes or until bubbles form on top of pancake and edges appear dry.  Carefully flip pancake and cook until golden brown.  Transfer pancakes to an oven safe plate and keep warm in oven until remaining batter is cooked.  Re-spray cooking surface with non-stick spray as needed.  Serve pancakes with sliced bananas on top.

 

Makes 6 servings (12 pancakes)

 

1 serving = 2 pancakes

per serving  125 calories, 1 g fat, 32 mg chol, 130 mg sodium, 3 g fiber, 5.5 g protein

 

* 1/3 of a banana, sliced on top will add 35 calories and 1 g fiber

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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2011-08-12 15:54:46

 

Pizza Crusted Baked Cheese Sticks

This lighter version of the traditional mozzarella stick is a great snack for picky kids.  The Pizza Veggie Stix add something extra special to this crowd favorite.

4 "light" mozzarella cheese sticks
2 T whole wheat pastry flour
1 egg 
3/4 ounce Pizza flavored Veggie Stix (about 45) (www.goodhealthnaturalfoods.com), crushed
cooking spray
marinara sauce for dipping (optional, preferably low sodium)


Preheat oven or toaster oven to 400 degrees.  Slice each cheese stick into 3 pieces.  Put pizza stix into a baggie, seal, and crush stix with a rolling pin or back of a spoon then transfer to a plate. Beat egg in a small bowl, and place flour on a plate as well. Spray baking sheet with cooking spray.  Roll cheese pieces in whole wheat flour, then dip in egg, then roll each piece in pizza stix crumbs. Gently place each piece on the baking sheet and bake for approximately 6 minutes until cheese begins to spread.  Trasfer to a plate and serve with fun colored toothpicks and marinara sauce.

Makes 4 snack servings (3 cheese bites each)

108 calories, 4.3g fat, 1.8g sat fat, 49mg chol, 314mg sodium, 9.6g protein

 We were given product samples to use in this recipe. We were not compensated for our time.

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2011-08-11 12:30:33
Golden Vanilla and Fruit Cake
 
Our Golden Vanilla and Fruit Cake is a Gluten-free dessert to indulge in without sacrificing great taste! This cake is perfect for birthday celebrations that the whole family will enjoy.
 
1 box of Simply Organic Golden Vanilla Cake Mix
2 eggs
2 Tablespoons canola oil
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce 
3/4 cup TruWhip whipped topping
1 kiwi fruit, sliced
1/2 cup fresh raspberries
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Non-stick cooking spray
 
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
 
In a large mixing bowl combine Vanilla Cake Mix, eggs, oil, vanilla and applesauce. Mix until well combined. Spray an 8 inch cake pan with non-stick spray. Pour batter in pan and bake in oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of cake comes out clean. Allow cake to cool at least one hour and then gently transfer to serving plate. Cover top of cake with TruWhip topping and decorate top with fruit. The cake can be made the night before serving and kept in the refrigerator.
 
Makes 8 servings
 
(Per serving)
215 calories, 6 g fat, 1.5 g sat fat, 180 mg sodium, 44 mg chol, 2 g fiber, 20 g sugar, 2 g protein
 
We received product samples to include in this recipe. We were not compensated for our time.
 
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2011-08-10 23:05:24

 

 

Falafel Chip Crusted Chicken Strips

Falafel Chip Crusted Chicken Strips are a delicious, gluten-free alternative to traditional chicken tenders.  Falafel Chips are a Kid Kritics approved food.  Check it out at www.kidkritics.com.  These versatile chicken strips are excellent additions to wraps, salads, and school lunches to create a protein packed meal.

1 pound raw chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
2 oz Flamous Brand Falafel Chips, crushed www.flamousbrands.com
cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Pound raw chicken breasts so they are of even thickness.  Crush falafel chips in a baggie with a rolling pin or in a food processor until they are slightly larger than bread crumbs. Pour chips onto a plate and press chicken breasts into chips until thoroughly coated.  Spray nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray.  Place chicken breasts on baking sheet and lightly spray the outer chip coating with cooking spray.  Bake for 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature is 165 degrees.  Slice and serve with organic ketchup or other favorite condiment.

Serves 4

170 calories, 5g fat, 73mg chol, 152mg sodium, 1g fiber, 25g protein

 

 We received product samples to use in this recipe. We were not compensated for our time.

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2011-08-08 08:47:36

Roasted Red Pepper and Garlic Hummus

 

1 (15 oz) can garbanzo beans

1 large red pepper, sliced in half and seeded (if desired, leave 1 inch piece of red pepper and dice to garnish hummus)

1 head of garlic (if desired, leave small amount of roasted garlic to garnish hummus)

1 Tablespoon Tahini paste

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (1/2 teaspoon reserved for roasting garlic)

3 lemons

 

Preheat broiler

Place pepper halves on foil lined cookie sheet and roast in oven until skin is blackened.  Place pepper halves in a small glass bowl and cover with plastic wrap.  The peppers will continue to steam in covered bowl.  Do not remove and allow to cool in covered bowl.  Reduce temperature in oven to  bake at 400 degrees.  Peel away the outer layers of the garlic bulb.  Make sure you leave the skin of the individual cloves intact.  Cut off 1/4 to 1/2 inch of the top of the cloves, exposing the individual cloves of garlic.  Drizzle 1/2 tsp of olive oil  onto garlic.  Bake on foiled cookie sheet for 30-35 minutes.  Allow garlic to cool.  Use a small knife and cut the skin slightly around clove, squeeze out the garlic into a food processor.  Place garbanzo beans,  roasted peppers, tahini, juice of 2 lemons, salt and olive oil into food processor and pulse until a thick paste is formed.  Lemon juice (from additional lemon) can be added until desired consistency is achieved.  Refrigerate overnight in a airtight container.

 

Serve in a small bowl and can garnish, if desired,  with diced red peppers and/or roasted garlic.  Serve with pita chips or Falafel Chips (spicy or original)

 

 

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2011-08-04 22:49:36

 

Vegetable Quinoa

 

 

2 cups quinoa, rinsed

4 cups low sodium chicken broth 

1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

5 oz fresh baby spinach

2 cups sweet corn kernels (about 4 ears), grilled in husk and cut free from cob

(frozen corn, cooked can be used as well)

2 Tablespoons pecorino romano cheese

 

Combine quinoa and broth in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil.  Cover, reduce heat and simmer approximately 10 minutes until liquid is absorbed.  Remove from heat, let stand for 10 minutes and then fluff with a fork.  Toss together well in a large bowl warm quinoa, cherry tomatoes, spinach, sweet corn and Pecorino Romano cheese.  Serve immediately.

 

Makes  8 servings

 

(per serving)

200 calories, 3 g fat, 0 mg chol, 60 mg sodium, 5 g fiber, 9 g protein

 

Tips and Twist:

This recipe is perfect with our Garlic Shrimp recipe, simply add in the shrimp along with the vegetables.  Vary the vegetables according to your preferences, remember to make it colorful.

 

**Correction: This recipe was originally posted incorrectly.  We apologize for any inconvenience. 

 

 

 

 

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2011-08-04 22:45:58

Tzatziki - Cucumber Yogurt Dip

Tzatziki ( prononced either za-DZEE-kee or dza-DZEE-kee, with emphasis on the second syllable) is a classic Greek sauce served with chicken, beef or lamb.  Use Tzatiki in place of any condiment to finish sandwiches, wraps or salads.  This is a lower fat, higher protein alternative to add zest to your favorite recipe. Enjoy!

1 (16 oz) container of low-fat Greek Yogurt  

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced (place cucumber on paper towels to strain water prior to mixing with ingredients)

1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon crushed garlic

2 Tablespoons lemon juice (1 lemon)

2 Tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

1 teaspoon salt

 

Mix all ingredients.  Chill for at least 2 hours and garnish with dill sprigs prior to serving.

Serve with our Ground Turkey Kebabs, Crab Cakes or as a starter with warm pita.  

1 serving = 3 Tablespoons

30 calories, 1.5g fat, 0.5g sat fat, 2 mg chol, 165 mg sodium, 3 g Protein

 

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2011-08-04 22:39:58

Baked Crab Cakes

 

1 pound lump crab meat

3/4 cup whole wheat bread crumbs

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

2 Tablespoons lemon juice ( 1 lemon)

1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

3/4 cup red bell peppers, finely chopped

1 scallion with green top, finely chopped

2 eggs lightly beaten

1 dash hot sauce

Non-stick cooking spray

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees

 

Mix all ingredients well.  Roll into 2 inch balls and flatten.  Place on cookie sheet sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.  Bake until golden brown on bottom, about 10 minutes,  Gently flip and bake another 5-10 minutes until golden brown on both sides.

 

Makes 12 crab cakes.  Serve with our Tzatziki-Cucumber Yogurt Dip

 

 

 

 

1 serving = 2 crab cakes

120 calories, 8 g fat, 250 mg sodium, 1.5 g fiber, 14.5 g protein

 

 

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2011-07-13 14:40:28

 

Wheat Berries with Pine Nuts and Currants

Olive oil non-stick cooking spray
1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
1 cup wheat berries by Earthly Choice www.earthlychoice.com
2 – 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
2 Tablespoons flat leaf parsley
1 teaspoon dried rosemary, chopped
1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
½ cup dried currants
¼ cup pine nuts, toasted (see below)
½ apple, chopped into small pieces

Dressing:
2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 Tablespoon maple syrup
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Heat a medium saucepan with a lid on medium-high heat.  Spray lightly with olive oil cooking spray and add 1 teaspoon olive oil.  Add the wheat berries and cook, stirring often for about 3-4 minutes.  Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.  Cover and reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes or until broth is absorbed, drain remaining liquid if needed.  Place wheat berries in a bowl to cool.  Add the parsley, rosemary, thyme, apple, currants and toasted pine nuts.

To make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine vinegar, maple syrup, salt and pepper.  Whisk in olive oil until nicely combined.  Pour over the wheat berry salad and gently mix to coat evenly.  Give the salad time to cool and let the flavor develop.  It’s wonderful the next day!

Serves 6:
252 calories, 8g fat, 1.4g sat fat, 71mg sodium, 6.3g fiber, 6g protein 

Tips and Twists:

The Earthly Choice wheat berries are parboiled, therefore you only need to cook them for about 15 minutes.  Check your wheat berries to make sure, otherwise you will need to cook them for over an hour.

To toast the pine nuts, place them in a toaster oven (or regular oven at 350 degrees) on aluminum foil and toast for 3-4 minutes, watching to make sure they do not burn. 

This recipe can be lightened slightly by using lite or sugar free maple syrup.  Also, if pine nuts and currants are hard to find, you may use raisins, dried cranberries, dried cherries, or toasted slivered almonds as well.

 

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2011-06-28 17:40:08

 Grilled Peaches and Frozen Yogurt

4 peaches, firm and ripe
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
2 cups vanilla frozen yogurt 
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat grill to medium-high and grease well.

Slice peaches in half and twist halves away from pit.  Remove and discard pit.  Combine lemon juice and honey and generously brush cut edge of peaches.   Grill peaches cut side down for approximately 5 minutes, grill with cover closed.  Turn peach over and lower grill to low.  Close grill cover again and grill another 5 minutes.  Time may vary depending on ripeness of peach.   Cook until peach is tender all the way through.  Place peaches on platter and let sit a couple of minutes before plating.  Serve 1 half with 1/4 cup of frozen yogurt.  Garnish with fresh mint if desired.

 

Serves 8

1 peach half with 1/4 cup frozen yogurt  = 1 serving
75 calories, 30 mg sodium, 1 g fiber, 3.5 g PRO 

 

 Tips and Twists:

Place the frozen yogurt in the center of the peach where the pit was for an appealing presentation.  Add some touches with chopped walnuts, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or shredded coconut.  Enjoy!

 

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2011-06-27 13:02:47

 

Chicken and Vegetable Kabobs

 

1 pound chicken, cut into 1 inch cubes

1 red pepper, cut into 2 inch pieces

1 yellow pepper, cut into 2 inch pieces

1 zucchini, cut into 1 inch slices

2 sweet onions, cut into wedges

2 portions of NutritionBabes Balsamic Dressing Recipe

Skewers (if using wood skewers, soak in water up to 30 minutes prior to adding chicken and vegetables

 

Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly grease grill.

In a large resealable plastic bag add Balsamic Dressing Recipe, chicken, peppers, zucchini and onions. Seal bag and refrigerate up to 5 hours. Remove chicken and vegetables from dressing and discard remaining dressing. Alternate chicken and vegetables on skewers. Grill kabobs until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Serve immediately.

 

Tips and Twists:

Slice up other desired vegetables to add on your skewers. Try shrimp, scallops or another lean cut of beef in place of chicken.  Serve with our Quinoa or Wheat Berry recipe.  Enjoy!

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2011-06-14 14:31:32

 

Wheat Berries with Roasted Tomatoes and Carrots

 

1 cup wheat berries (peferably a brand that has been parboiled)

2 1/2 cups water

1/2 pint cherry tomatoes

1 cup carrots, diced

1/2 cup sweet onion, diced

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 cup light feta cheese

nonstick spray

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Combine wheat berries and water in a sauce pan and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer covered until wheat berries are tender, approximately 15 minutes. Meanwhile, spray a sheet pan with nonstick spray and roast tomatoes approximately 15 – 20 minutes until tender. In a large sauté pan, heat oil and add carrots and onion, sauté until onions are translucent and carrots are tender. Combine wheat berries, tomatoes, salt and feta in sauté pan and heat through. Serve warm or chilled.

 

Serve with our Garlic Shrimp! 

 

Serves 4
120 calories, 2.5 g fat, 104 mg sodium, 2 g fiber, 8 g protein

 

Tips and Twists:

Your choice of nuts can be combined for added flavor. Switch up the vegetables for variety or for your preference. Make it a meal and add chicken, shrimp, scallops or lobster. Goat cheese also works well instead of feta. Enjoy!

 

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2011-06-14 14:29:44

Peach and Banana Ambrosia

1 large peach, peeled and chopped

1 large banana, peeled and sliced

16 oz vanilla Greek yogurt 

1 lemon

Spoon yogurt evenly into 4 small bowls. Divide peach and banana slices into 4 servings and add to each bowl.  Squeeze the juice of one lemon and drizzle over top of each dessert, between 1-2 teaspoons per serving.

Makes 4 servings.

108 calories, 2 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 7 mg chol, 80 mg sodium, 1.5 g fiber, 6.5 g protein

Tips and Twists:

Mix it up with different varieties of fruits!  Plain yogurt can be used as well.  Garnish with shredded coconut or light granola.  Enjoy!

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2011-06-14 14:22:59

Grapefruit and Avocado Salad

1 grapefruit, peeled and white pith cut away and segments cut from between membranes to release grapefruit segments

1 avocado, sliced into 1/2 inch slices

1/2 pound red leaf lettuce

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic, minced

1 tablespoon honey mustard (such as Annie's Organic Honey Mustard www.annies.com)

1 teaspoon lemon juic

1 teaspoon lime juice

1/8 teaspoon salt

Wash lettuce well and pat dry with a paper towel.  Break lettuce into bite size pieces and place in medium size bowl.  Slice grapefruit wedges into quaters as well as avocado slices. Mix remaining ingredients in mini food processor or mix very well with a wisk.  Drizzle dressing on salad and lightly toss.  Serve immediately.

Makes 4 servings.

175 calories, 14 g fat, 2 g sat fat, 100 mg sodium, 5 g fiber, 2 g protein

Tips and Twists

Make this salad a meal and add grilled chicken, shrimp or salmon.  Add your choice of nuts or light cheese to mix it up.  Enjoy!

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2011-06-01 23:27:19

Mediterranean Mussels

1 pint cherry tomatoes

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

2 Tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons garlic crushed

1 small yellow onion, chopped

2 Tablespoons basil, diced

2 Tablespoons parsley, diced

1 pound mussels, rinsed and cleaned

nonstick spray

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

On a greased pan with nonstick spray roast cherry tomatoes with kosher salt sprinkled on top.  Roast tomatoes for approximately 15 - 20 minutes or until tomatoes start to wrinkle and release juices.  Meanwhile, in a large pan heat olive oil over medium high heat with garlic and onions.  Saute until onions are translucent and add roasted tomatoes, basil and parsley.  Saute with tomatoes another 3 minutes and add mussels.  Increase the heat to high and cook mussels until all are open, stirring occasionally.  Once mussels are open, lower heat and simmer another 4 minutes or until heated through.  Serve immediately.  Enjoy!

Tips and Twists

Serve as an appetizer or over whole wheat pasta for dinner.  This recipe can also be offered alone with a chunk of whole wheat bread for dipping!  Garnish with additional basil or parsley.

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2011-06-01 23:26:00

Grilled Eggplant with Goat Cheese

1 eggplant, sliced 1/2 inch thick

1 Tablespoon olive oil

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

2 oz goat cheese

NutritionBabes Balsamic Dressing

Prepare and grease grill to high heat.  Brush olive oil on eggplant slices and sprinkle with kosher salt.  Place on greased grill for approximately 15 minutes, turning half way through or until tender.  Place on platter, sprinkle with goat cheese and drizzle Balsamic Dressing.  Can be served warm or chilled.  Enjoy!

Tips and Twists
Make this into a main entree and add roasted peepers on top and put over a bed of greens.  Cut up cherry tomatoes and top the eggplant to add color.  Get creative and grill some colorful vegetables to add along.

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2011-05-27 08:50:58

Grilled Vegetable Platter

 

4 sweet red peppers, cored, seeded and cut in quarters

4 sweet orange peppers, cored, seeded and cut in quarters

4 medium green zucchini, cut lengthwise into ¼ inch thick strips

4 medium yellow summer squash, cut lengthwise into ¼ inch thick strips

8 portobello mushrooms, stems removed

2 red onions, cut in ½-inch thick rings

3 Tablespoons olive oil

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon pepper

 

Grease and preheat grill to high heat.  Brush vegetables with olive oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Place on grill and close lid, turning once, until vegetables are tender and lightly charred, approximately 15 minutes.

 

Tips and Twists:

 

This can be made with your vegetables of choice.  Choice a good variety of vegetables and arrange then on a large platter for a colorful presentation.  This recipe can be served warm or cold.  The vegetables can be offered as a side dish, the mane fare or as toppings for your favorite BBQ meats.  Enjoy!

 

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2011-05-25 00:23:22

Cheeseburger Sliders

2 large onions, sliced ¼ inch thick

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 ½ pounds ground beef (7-10% fat, preferably grass fed)

Dash of salt and fresh ground pepper to season meat

¾ pound light Jarlsberg or light Swiss cheese, sliced thin

5-6 large vine ripened tomatoes, sliced ½ inch thick

20 dinner rolls (preferably whole wheat)


In a medium pan heat olive oil on medium-high heat and add onions.  Saute until onions are translucent, turn off heat and set aside.

Shape ground beef into 1 ½ inch diameter balls.  Flatten to 3 inch patties.  Prepare barbeque to medium-high to high heat.  Grill patties until cooked to desired doneness, approximately 4 – 5 minutes for medium well.  Add slice of cheese during last 2 minutes of cooking.  If desired, toast cut side of roll on grill about 1 minute.

Place patties on dinner rolls, add slice of tomato and onions on top.  Serve immediately.

Tips and Twists:
Substitute ground turkey meat instead of ground beef.  Experiment with different light cheeses and a variety of grilled vegetables on top of the burger.  Also you can mix finely chopped vegetables with ground meat.  Good choices are onion, peppers or carrots.  Enjoy!

 

 

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2011-05-15 18:57:34

Arugula and Asparagus Salad

16 asparagus spears

1/2 teaspoon olive oil

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

4 handfuls of arugula (about 4 oz each)

2 oz goat cheese, crumbled

NutritionBabes Balsamic dressing recipe

Preheat grill to high heat.  Lightly coat asparagus with olive oil and salt.  Grill asparagus for 2-3 minutes or until desired consistency.  Separate arugula amongst 4 plates.  Sprinkle goat cheese equally on each plate and top with 4 asparagus spears each.  Drizzle with balsamic dressing.  Enjoy! 

Serves 4

180 calories, 12 g fat, 4 g sat fat, 15 mg chol, 235 mg sodium, 4 g fiber, 9.5 g protein 

 

 

 

 

 

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2011-05-04 19:07:48

 

NutritionBabes Zucchini, Tomato and Onion Bake

Spring vegetables and herbs can create an endless combination of healthy and yummy dishes.  This recipe can be served as a side dish to accompany almost anything.  It’s wonderful with fish, chicken, barbeque meats or any other protein source you prefer.  It’s very simple and so pretty on the table.  

1 large zucchini, sliced very thin

1 small yellow onion, sliced very thin 

1 ½ teaspoons olive oil

2 medium vine tomatoes, sliced thin

1 Tablespoon fresh parsley

5 fresh basil leaves

¼ teaspoon Kosher salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Olive oil flavored cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  In a bowl, combine zucchini, onions and olive oil.  Add parsley, basil, salt and pepper and combine well.  Spray an oven safe dish with olive oil cooking spray.  Create a pattern of alternating 3-4 zucchini slices with onion mixture and a slice of tomato until all the vegetables are in the dish.  Top with a light mist of olive oil cooking spray.  Sprinkle top with Parmesan cheese.  Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.  Remove foil and continue to bake another 20-25 minutes until cheese is nicely browned and vegetables are soft.

Makes 4 servings

63 calories, 2.7g fat, 1.2g saturated fat, 5mg chol, 256mg sodium, 2g fiber, 3.8g sugar, 4g protein.

Tips and Twists:

This can be made with your vegetables of choice.  If you need to lower the sodium content, use less added salt.  You may also experiment with your favorite herbs.  Garlic, thyme and rosemary are other suggested additions if you wish to increase the flavor.  Reduced fat Parmesan cheese can also be used to slightly decrease the fat and calorie content.

 

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2011-05-04 17:13:11

Zucchini Au Gratin

Zucchini is a very versatile summer squash that can be eaten in anything from soups, salads, kabobs, side dishes, and even dessert.  Here is a favorite side dish that can be paired with almost any lean meat, or as the main fare for a yummy vegetarian meal.

3 large or 4 medium zucchini, sliced very thin

2 teaspoons olive oil

5-6 fresh basil leaves, chopped or ½ teaspoon jarred

8oz 2% (reduced fat) shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese

¼ cup grated parmesan cheese 

1 Tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

½ cup whole grain seasoned bread crumbs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  In a large bowl, combine olive oil and zucchini.  Add basil, cheeses and parsley, and combine well.  Spray a large casserole dish with nonstick spray.  Pour mixture into casserole and cover with ½ cup whole grain bread crumbs.  Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.  Remove foil and continue cooking for 20 minutes.

Serves 6

209 calories, 9 g fat, 3.7g saturated fat, 17 mg chol, 417mg sodium, 3g fiber, 3g sugar, 16g protein

Tips and Twists:

Look for a variety of bread crumbs that has the lowest sodium you can find.  Bread crumbs are notoriously high in sodium.  You can lower the calorie and fat content by using fat free shredded cheese or using less than 8oz.  You can also use fat free or reduced fat parmesan cheese to save a few calories and fat grams, this recipe is analyzed using the regular version. 

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2011-05-03 14:14:48

NutritionBabes Frittata

A frittata is an Italian egg-based dish similar to a quiche or an omelet.  Typically a frittata includes ingredients such as cheese, vegetable or meats.  The eggs of a frittata are beaten more vigorously in order to incorporate more air to allow for a deeper filling with a fluffier result.  We’ve made a healthier version of a cheese and vegetable frittata.  Serve it up on a relaxing Sunday morning, your next hosted luncheon or for dinner.  It can be served warm or cold, as well as being prepared the night before and reheated in the morning for a quick breakfast.  Pair the NutritionBabes Frittata with a fresh salad, whole wheat bread, beans, fresh fruit or olives.

1 cup sweet potatoes, cut into ½ inches cubes
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
¾ cup yellow onion, diced
1 ½ cups asparagus, cut into 1 inch slices
1 cup red peppers, diced
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
4 eggs, beaten (or 1 cup of non-fat egg substitute)

8 egg whites (or 1 ½ cups of liquid egg whites)

2/3 cup reduced fat cheddar cheese, shredded

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Cover a cookie sheet with nonstick spray and roast sweet potatoes for approximately 10 minutes.  Heat oil in nonstick oven-safe sauté pan over medium-high heat, add garlic and onions and heat for approximately 1 minute.  Add asparagus and red peppers, sauté until vegetables are tender, approximately 7 – 8 minutes.  In a medium sized bowl vigorously beat eggs, egg whites, kosher salt, mix well.  Beating the egg whites at room temperature will allow for fluffier eggs.  Once potatoes are tender, add to vegetables along with egg mixture.   Sprinkle cheese evenly over eggs.  Heat pan of egg mixture over medium-high heat until eggs set and top remains a bit runny.  Next, transfer the pan with the eggs into the oven for approximately 6-8 minutes.

Allow frittata to cool approximately 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Makes 6 serving.
180 calories, 6 g fat, 2 g sat fat, 130 mg chol, 275 mg sodium, 3.5 g fiber, 13 g protein

Tips and Twists:

Get creative and mix-up the vegetables and cheeses.  Lean cuts of meats can be added as well.  Look for eggs that are fortified with omega-3s, such as Egglands Best www.egglandsbest.com.  If you do not have a non-stick pan, add the egg mixture to a pie pan or make 6 individual frittatas in a cupcake pan.  Either pan used should be sprayed non-stick spray.  Bake in oven for approximately 10-15 minutes or until golden brown on top.   Prepare frittata ahead of time and reheat for a quick grab and go breakfast or pack for lunch.  Enjoy!



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2011-04-20 14:54:31

NutritionBabes Vegetable Lasagna

Our vegetable lasagna is a great meal to make with the kids!  Chop up all the vegetables ahead of time and let them pile on the layers themselves.  Kids are more receptive to try their own creations!  You can add many different vegetables, let them explore and pick their own to add.  Enjoy!

12 whole wheat lasagna noodles

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 cup fresh mushrooms, chopped

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup fresh carrots, chopped

3 cups light ricotta cheese 

¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

3 cups reduced fat shredded mozzarella cheese

2 (25 oz) jars of tomato sauce

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.  Add lasagna noodles and cook according to directions on the box; drain.  In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and garlic.  Heat for 1 minute and add mushrooms, spinach and carrots.  Sauté vegetables for approximately 5 minutes.  Transfer vegetables into a colander in the sink, allowing them to drain and cool.  Combine ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, 2 cups of the mozzarella cheese and vegetables.  Mix well.  Cover bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with ½ cup of tomato sauce and then layer 3 noodles on top.  Spread 1/3 of cheese/vegetable mixture over noodles.  Spread 1 cup of sauce over the cheese.  Repeat for 2 more layers.  Once the last layer of noodles is placed, add 1 cup of tomato sauce and remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.  Cool 15 minutes before serving.  Heat remainder of the tomato sauce and serve on the side.

Makes 12 servings
290 calories, 12.5 g fat, 4 g sat fat, 24 mg chol, 370 mg sodium, 5 g fiber, 22 g protein

Tips and Twists:

Using a low sodium sauce or adding less salt to your own sauce helps cut back the sodium in your meal.  The cheeses already contain a significant amount to add enough flavor to the dish.  If you or your family is not receptive at this time to consuming whole wheat pasta, try an alternative that is higher in fiber.  These items have a consistency and texture closer to white pasta. And as mentioned before, get creative and add your own variety of vegetables.  They will all taste amazing!



 

 

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2011-04-18 17:50:47

NutritionBabes Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a popular Italian cake that literally means “pick me up”!  Typically it is made of biscuits dipped in espresso, layered with a whipped mixture of egg yolks and mascarpone cheese and flavored with liquor and cocoa.  The NutritionBabes have adapted this indulgence to give you a “pick me up and keep me going” all day long dessert!  We’ve incorporated Chobani Greek yogurt, which allows you to gain 17 g protein with fewer calories and fat from your Italian splurge!  Enjoy! 

6 oz Vanilla 0% fat Greek yogurt
1/8 teaspoon instant coffee granules
1 dark chocolate 70% cocoa square (.1 oz) finely grated or chopped and separated
1 lady finger cookie finely chopped

In a small bowl mix together vanilla yogurt, instant coffee granules and 1/3 amount of dark chocolate.  Spoon the yogurt mixture into a small glass cup or glass berry bowl.  Layer the lady finger cookie on top and then remainder of dark chocolate.  Gently press 
the cookie and chocolate layer into the yogurt with the back side of a spoon, allowing the cookie and chocolate to remain visible as the top layer.  Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 5 hours or overnight.

Makes 1 serving

168 cal, 1g fat, .5 g sat fat, 6 g chol, 42 mg sodium, 16 g sugar, 17 g protein

 

 

 

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2011-04-15 07:18:48

Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Pears


This is a perfect side dish for a crowd!  It fits well with brisket, turkey or any lean meat.  Enjoy!

 

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes

3 firm Bartlett pears, seeded and cut into cubes

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon honey

¼ cup orange juice

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon kosher salt

½ cup pecan halves

¾ cup golden raisins

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

 

In a large casserole dish add sweet potato and pear cubes.  Gently mix in remaining ingredients until all are well coated.

 

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.  Uncover, gently mix and bake for another 30-45 minutes.  Mix again and serve immediately, enjoy!

Serves 14
165 calories, 4 g fat, 0 mg chol, 8 mg sodium, 5 g fiber, 2 g protein

Tips and Twists:

This recipe works well with a variety of different fruits such as prunes, figs or apples.  Also, many different nuts can be substituted to meet your preferences.  Mix it up to please all of your guests!

 

 

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2011-04-08 23:17:32

Carrot, Butternut Squash Soup

This soup is a NutritionBabes favorite!  It is good as a meal, but it also makes a fantastic appetizer when entertaining.   Serve it in small cups and pass them around to your guests.   Our soup is gluten-free and dairy-free.  Enjoy!

1 pound carrots, peeled 
1 small butternut squash, peeled and seeded 
2 small white turnips, peeled 
1 large sweet potato, peeled 
2 Tablespoons olive oil 
½ teaspoon kosher salt 
6 cups less sodium chicken stock, (preferably gluten free)
Olive oil nonstick spray

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Cut all carrots, butternut squash, turnips and sweet potato into 1 inch cubes.  Spray sheet pan with nonstick spray.  Place all vegetables on sheet pan and toss in olive oil and kosher salt.  Bake for approximately 35 – 40 minutes until tender, turning vegetables half way through.  After vegetables are cooked, puree with chicken stock in food processor or blender in small batches.   Once pureed, pour soup into medium size pot and simmer for about 20 minutes and heated through.

Garnish with fresh flat leaf parsley or whole wheat croutons!

Makes 6 (2 cups) servings 
Calories 158, Total Fat 4.5 g, Sat Fat, Mono Fat 3.5g, Protein 4.5g, Carb 26g, Fiber 5.5g, Chol 0mg, Sodium 357mg

Tips and Twists: 
Many grocery stores sell cut-up butternut squash.  It’s a bit more expensive, but great when time is an issue.  Add more chicken broth if you desire a thinner consistency.  Double or triple the recipe and freeze the leftovers in small single serving containers. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator for future quick, easy meals. 

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2011-04-04 22:41:10

NutritionBabes
Citrus Frozen Yogurt

Try these quick, easy desserts to make with the kids, impress the guests ro hide them and keep them all to yourself...they're that good!

 Lemon Frozen Yogurt

2 Lemons
1 (6 oz) Lemon Chobani Greek yogurt

Wash and dry lemons well.  Slice the bottom of each without slicing into the flesh of the lemon.  This will allow the fruit to stand upright.  Slice off the top of each lemon to open the fruit.  Scoop out the inside of the fruit and discard.  Fill each lemon with 3 oz of Lemon Chobani Greek Yogurt.  Cover each lemon with plastic wrap and place in freezer for approximately 2 ½ hours.  Serve immediately.

Makes 2 servings
70 cal, 40 mg sodium, 10 g carbs, 7.5 g protein

 

Orange Frozen Yogurt

2 small navel oranges
1 (6oz) Vanilla Chobani Greek yogurt

Wash and dry oranges well.  Slice the bottom of each without slicing into the flesh of the orange.  This will allow the fruit to stand upright.  Slice off the top of each orange to open the fruit.  Scoop out the inside of the fruit and reserve in a small bowl.  Drain juice and discard.  Place reserved fruit in a small food processor and chop well.  Mix fruit with vanilla yogurt and fill each orange with yogurt.  Cover each orange with plastic wrap and place in freezer for approximately 2 ½ hours.  Serve immediately.

Makes 2 servings
75 cal, 37 mg sodium, 11 carbs, 8g Pro

Tips and Twists:
Any flavor yogurt tastes great frozen.  Another favorite is Chobani Black Cherry Greek Yogurt in a frozen wine glass.  Mix the yogurt first until cherries are blend in, then place in glass to be frozen.

When making the lemon or orange frozen yogurt retain the bottom and top slices of the fruit to use as a garnish either by leaving whole on top or making into a rind to sprinkle within the frozen yogurt.   

Leaving the yogurt in the freezer too long may make the consistency too icy.  If this occurs, allow the yogurt to defrost in the refrigerator until desired consistency is achieved.

 

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2011-03-02 11:44:29

Shrimp Pesto Pasta

The secret to this gourmet tasting meal is a jar of pesto.  It allows the preparation of this dish in less than 30 minutes.  You don’t even need to defrost the shrimp!    

8 ounces whole wheat angel hair pasta, dry
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic, divided
10 ounces whole white mushrooms, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 pound shrimp, frozen, raw
1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
4 tablespoons jarred pesto
Parmesan cheese to taste

Boil water to cook pasta in a separate pot. When ready, cook pasta according to directions on package and set aside.  Heat sauté pan to medium-high heat and add olive oil.  Add ½ teaspoon garlic and sauté mushrooms for 3-5 minutes.  Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove veggies from pan and set aside.  Add shrimp to pan with other ½ teaspoon garlic and saute until shrimp is pink and cooked through.  Drain extra liquid from pan.  Add back vegetables, including tomatoes and heat through.  Add pasta and pesto to pan, stirring to coat well.  Add parmesan cheese to taste.

Serves 4
391 calories, 12.4g fat, 1.8g sat fat, 123mg chol, 395mg sodium, 7.5g fiber, 2g sugar, 32g protein

Tips and Twists:

If you prefer a more intense flavor, add more pesto.  1 tablespoon is enough for a flavorful dish while keeping the calorie count in check.

Use more mushrooms, spinach, and tomatoes if desired.  Exact measurements are not necessary. 

Angel hair makes the dish more delicate, but any shape pasta will do.

Many people will say that any cheese with fish is a no-no, but the parmesan is a low calorie way to enhance the flavor of the pesto.

 
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2011-02-25 11:05:41

 

Paprika Chicken Stew

Stews are a wonderful tool to have in your recipe arsenal.  They can be prepared to serve several people at one meal, or to be enjoyed a few days in a row as leftovers. Also, freezing portions to be heated later can save precious time on busy weeknights. This Paprika Chicken Stew makes 9 servings, and is chock full of antioxidants and Vitamin C, with very little added salt.  Warm up your winter nights by serving this stew over your favorite whole grain noodles.  Increase or decrease the red pepper flakes to control the “heat”.

2 ½-3 pounds boneless chicken breast, cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 onions, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced or ½ tablespoon jarred 
2 very large or 3 medium vine tomatoes, chopped
2 red peppers, chopped
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
3 tablespoon paprika
½ teaspoon Kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ cup low sodium chicken broth (preferably gluten free)
½-¾ cup reduced fat or fat free sour cream (for gluten free we suggest Daisy Brand light www.daisybrand.com) 

Heat a large, deep pot/pan on medium-high heat.  Add olive oil and saute chopped onion and garlic for about 5 minutes.  
Add tomatoes, red peppers, and red pepper flakes.  Let mixture sauté for 10-12 minutes.
Add paprika, black pepper, salt, and chicken broth.  Lower heat to medium-low and cook for approx 10 minutes
Transfer contents of the pot to a blender or food processor and puree to desired consistency.
Return mixture to pot and add chicken.  Cover, and slowly cook chicken in sauce on medium-low heat for at least an hour to ensure tender chicken.  Make sure chicken is no longer pink inside before serving.
Slowly stir in sour cream just before serving.

Makes 9-10 servings, 1 cup chicken/sauce mixture:

238 calories, 6g fat, 91mg chol, 238mg sodium, 3g fiber, 6.5 g sugar, 32g protein

Serve over 1 cup of whole wheat egg noodles for an additional: 180 calories, 1g fat, 10mg sodium, 6g fiber, 1g sugar, 7g protein.

Tips and Twists: 

For a gluten free option, serve over 1 cup gluten free pasta, quinoa, brown rice or other favorite gluten free grain.

Add additional vegetables at serving time if desired.  Try tossing in cooked brussel sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, or other favorite veggie.  There’s plenty of sauce to go around.

 

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2011-02-13 19:27:21

Fresh Strawberries dipped in Dark Chocolate

4 long stem strawberries
3 oz of 60 - 70% cacao bittersweet chocolate chips (extra chocolate will remain in bowl, please discard)

Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe dish and melt in microwave on medium power for 2 minutes.  Stir and microwave again, 1 minute at a time, stiring in between, until melted.  Dip strawberries in chocolate and place on dish covered with wax paper.  Allow to chill in the refrigerator prior to serving.  Serves 2.

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2011-02-13 18:55:40

Chopped Shrimp Cocktail

½ pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined and chopped into bite size pieces
2 ripened red vine tomatoes, diced
1 teaspoon red onion, diced
1 teaspoon chopped cilantro leaves
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh squeezed lemon
salt to taste
baby romaine lettuce leaves to garnish martini glass

Mix all ingredients in a small bowl.  Line 2 martini glasses with baby romaine lettuce and scoop mixture evenly into each glass.  Garnish with a slice of lemon. Serves 2.

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2011-02-05 22:01:52

NutritionBabes Lemon Oatmeal Squares

 

2 Tablespoons unsalted butter

2 Tablespoons canola oil

¾ cup light brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

¾ cup whole wheat pastry flour

1 cup rolled oats

¾ cup rolled oats (ground in food processor and blender)

3 Tablespoons orange juice

¼ cup apple sauce

1 cup (8 oz) reduced fat cream cheese

2 egg whites

2 lemon (finely grate both lemons for lemon zest and squeeze both lemons for approximately 3 Tablespoons of lemon juice)

¼ cup evaporated nonfat milk

non stick canola oil spray

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Mix together in a medium bowl: butter, canola oil, brown sugar, baking powder and salt.  Once combined well, gradually add whole wheat flour, rolled oats and ground rolled oats.  Once mixed well add orange juice and mix again.  Split mixture in ½ and place in separate small bowls.  Set one bowl of mixture aside.  Add apple sauce to other small bowl of mixture.  Add mixture with apple sauce to 9 x 13 inch pan sprayed with canola oil non stick spray.  Press mixture with a spatula into pan covering the entire bottom evenly.  In a separate small bowl beat together low-fat cream cheese, egg whites, lemon zest, lemon juice and evaporated nonfat milk.  Pour lemon mixture in pan on top of crust.  Take reserved flour mixture and sprinkle on top of lemon filling, covering filling.  Bake in oven for 30 – 35 minutes, until top is golden brown.   Cool and cut into squares.  Allow to chill in refrigerator for 45- 60 minutes before serving.

Makes 28 squares
1 serving = 1 square

 

90 calories, 4 g fat, 1 ½ g sat fat, 9 mg chol, 70 mg sodium, 1 g fiber, 5 g sugar, 2 ½ g protein 

 

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2011-02-01 17:30:19

NutritionBabes Buffalo Chicken
with Blue Cheese Dressing

2 pounds chicken breast tenders (chicken tenderloins 99% fat free)

20 (8”) bamboo skewers

Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup agave nectar or honey

1 teaspoon paprika 

Dash of hot sauce

Dash of salt and pepper

Blue Cheese Dressing

½ cup low fat or light sour cream

½ cup 0% fat plain Greek yogurt  

1 teaspoon agave nectar

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

2 Tablespoons crumbled Blue Cheese

Dash of salt

Combine all ingredients of marinade in a small bowl and mix well.  *Equally separate marinade in two different bowls.  Clean chicken under cold water and then pat dry with paper towels.  Place clean chicken in a large Ziploc bag.  Add 1 batch of marinade to bag of chicken, seal tightly and knead sealed bag allowing marinade to soak around the chicken.  Put Ziploc bag on a plate and place in refrigerator for at least 60 – 90 minutes.  Cover second batch of marinade and place in refrigerator.  Soak bamboo sticks in water for at least 60 minutes to prevent them from burning when grilled.  Combine all ingredients of Blue Cheese dressing in a small bowl.  Transfer into small serving bowl, cover and place in refrigerator.

Once chicken is marinated, prepare grill to medium - medium high heat.   Remove chicken from Ziploc bag and place chicken on bamboo stick.  Discard Ziploc with remaining marinade.  Grill chicken for 3 minutes on each side.  Heat second batch of marinade from refrigerator on medium low heat on the stovetop until heated through.  Place chicken in shallow bowl with sticks hanging over edge of bowl.  Pour second heated marinade over chicken allowing both sides to be covered, while taking care to avoid sticky skewers.

Place skewers of chicken on serving dish with small bowl of blue cheese dressing.  Discard second batch of marinade from shallow bowl.  Serve immediately.

 

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2011-02-01 16:09:51

Garlic Shrimp Tacos

1 recipe of NutritionBabes Garlic Shrimp http://tinyurl.com/4kcw45r

4 vine ripened tomatoes, diced removing seeds and inner core

1 jalapeno pepper, diced removing seeds and inner white membrane

1 red onion, diced

2 Tablespoons chives, diced

1 lemon, cut in half

1 lime, cut in half

1 bag of arugula or spring mix lettuce, washed

4 avocados, diced removing peel and pit

10-15 corn tortillas

 

Mix vine ripened tomatoes, jalapenos, onion and chives in mixing bowl.  Squeeze in half of lemon and half of lime to finish salsa (can be made ahead and chilled in refrigerator).  Warm corn tortillas in microwave or toaster oven prior to serving.  Fold tortilla in half carefully to avoid cracking, layer bottom with arugula or spring mix lettuce, add shrimp, add 2 spoonfuls of salsa and one spoonful of diced avocado.  Serve immediately.

 

 

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2011-01-31 22:13:20

NutritionBabes Bean Dip

2 (15 ounce) cans of black beans, rinsed and drained

2 tomatoes

½ red onion

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 garlic clove, peeled

½ teaspoon salt

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded

Add drops of Tabasco Sauce to taste

¼ cup Mexican Style shredded 2 % cheese

 In a blender or food processor, puree all ingredients except cheese.  Transfer dip to a bowl.  Sprinkle cheese on top.  Dip can be served chilled or warm.  Serve with tortilla chips and vegetables.

 

 

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2011-01-31 21:59:37

NutritionBabes Guacamole

4 ripe avocados

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 tomato, diced (for garnish)

Wash outer skin of avocados.  Slice length-wise in half and discard pit.  Scoop-out inner fruit of avocados into a bowl.  Smash with a fork until smooth.  Add kosher salt and mix well.  Transfer the dip into a serving bowl.  Garnish with diced tomatoes and serve with tortilla chips and/or cut up vegetables.

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2011-01-11 09:52:00

 

I Can’t Believe it’s Cauliflower Soup

Soup is an amazing tool to use in your healthy diet arsenal.  During the winter, broth and veggie based soups are a satisfying way to fill up with few calories.  Studies have shown that individuals who consume soup almost daily are more likely to have a lower BMI.  Also, when soup is consumed at the start of a meal, it often results in fewer total calories consumed at that meal. ** Pair this cauliflower soup with almost any cuisine. 

1 Tablespoon olive oil
½ yellow onion, chopped
8 oz white mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 head cauliflower, chopped in large pieces
3 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
¼ tsp pepper

Heat oil in a large pot on medium high heat.  Add onions and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add mushrooms and cook for 5-8 minutes.
Add cauliflower, pepper, and chicken broth.  Cook until cauliflower is soft when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes.
Turn off heat and blend in pot with a hand (immersion) blender until smooth.  You may also transfer soup to a blender or food processor and pulse until desired consistency.

Makes 5 servings.

Serving size is 1 cup.  Nutrition facts per serving:  95 calories, 3 g fat, 6 g pro, 390 mg sodium, 6 g sugar, 5 g fiber.

Tips and Twists

This soup was made using chicken broth with 560mg of sodium per cup.  Choose a low sodium version to dramatically cut the sodium content.
Add more broth if you like a thinner soup.  It will decrease the calories per cup.
Experiment with spices that you like to alter the flavor.  Dust with paprika for a pretty burst of color. Smoked paprika adds amazing flavor!
If you prefer a chunkier soup, take the mushrooms out before you blend, and add them back later.
Try different varieties of mushrooms to find your favorite.

**Several references for studies related to soup and weight management can be found in the Campbell’s Research Review on Soup as a Weight Management Strategy at http://www.campbellwellness.com/pdf/SoupReportforWeb.pdf

 

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2011-01-05 21:38:25

Turkey Chili with Guacamole

Chili is ago-to crowd pleaser for football games and lazy Sundays.  It can easily be made in the morning and left to simmer all day in a Crockpot for a convenient self-serve dinner.  I also like to make a batch over the weekend to have available for a quick lunch or dinner during the busy work week.

This recipe is a healthier version of the typical chili recipe.  Our NutritionBabes Turkey Chili is a good source of vitamin A and C, and is high in iron, fiber and protein. It alsoincludes a good amount of monounsaturated fat and keeps the saturated fat content low.  

4 Tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 Tablespoons minced garlic

1 green pepper, diced

1 ¼ pounds lean ground turkey

3 Tablespoons chili powder

2 Tablespoons tomato paste

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

2 cans (14.5 oz) beef broth

1 small turnip, peeled and diced

½ pound carrots, peeled and diced

¾ cup broccoli crowns, diced

1 can (15.5 oz) Dark Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15.5 oz) Great Northern Beans, rinsed and drained

 

In large skillet set over medium high heat add ½ of olive oil (2 T).  Heat oil slightly and add onion, garlic and green pepper. Continuously mix with a wooden spoon until onions are translucent and peppers are tender.   Add ground turkey, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon continuously while browning to prevent clumping.  Add chili powder and tomato paste and mix well.   Cook until turkey is no longer pink, approx. 7-8 minutes.  Meanwhile, in another skillet add remaining olive oil (2 T) and sauté turnips, carrots and broccoli.  Cook vegetables until tender and transfer into a large stock pot or Crockpot.  Add turkey mixtureto vegetables.  Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and beans. Simmer on stove top for at least 60 minutes or cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 8-10 hours in a Crockpot.

 Guacamole Recipe
2 ripe avocados

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Wash outer skin of avocado.  Slice avocado length-wise in half and discard pit.  Scoop-out inner fruit of avocado into a small bowl.  Smash with a fork until smooth.  Add kosher salt and mix well.  Serve 1 Tablespoon on chili.

14 (8 oz) servings of Chili with 1 Tablespoon of guacamole each

390 calories, 10g fat, 2g sat fat, 3.5g mono fat, 40 mg chol, 300 mg sodium, 13g fiber, 4g sugar, 26.5g Protein

 

 

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2010-12-23 20:18:06

Garlic Shrimp

When I was first married, I was given advice by a friend on what to keep on hand in my freezer.  She further explained that you never know when you’ll have unexpected guests.  Her recommendation was a bag of frozen, cooked, peeled and deveined shrimp.    This "Garlic Shrimp" recipe has often been my go-to entrée to throw in a crock pot for a crowd, and it is always a big hit!  This dish can be served as an appetizer, the main fare or over a salad.  I especially enjoy this with our previously posted Quinoa recipe.

1 ½ pounds of pre-cooked shrimp (thawed if previously frozen according to package directions)

2 T olive oil

2 tsp crushed garlic

1 T grated pecorino romano cheese

 Heat olive oil and garlic over medium heat, add shrimp and cheese and mix well until heated through.  Garnish with flat leaf parsley. 

Makes 6 servings

158 calories, 6 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 3.5 g mono fat, 222 mg chol, 278 mg sodium, 24 g protein

 

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2010-12-22 14:51:15

NutritionBabes Chocolate Chip Cookies

I was determined to come up with a “healthier” chocolate chip cookie; I found it!  My kids were EXTREMELY happy to be a part of the taste test panel, and my husband was thrilled with the final result (he is a chocolate chip cookie connoisseur)!

The typical homemade chocolate chip cookie has 16% more calories, 43% more fat, 60% more saturated fat, 160% more cholesterol and ½ the fiber of this NutritionBabes recipe.

Here it is, enjoy!

1 ½ cups 100% whole wheat flour

1 cup 100% whole grain rolled oats

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 ½ cups unsweetened apple sauce

¼ cup canola oil

¼ cup butter, softened

½ cup sugar

½ cup light brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon vanilla

½ cup nonfat egg substitute

1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Grease cookie sheets with canola oil non-stick spray

In a small bowl combine 100% whole wheat flour, 100% whole grain rolled oats, baking soda and salt.  In a larger bowl combine apple sauce, canola oil, butter, sugar, brown sugar and vanilla.  While mixing, gradually add in egg substitute.  Next, gradually add in flour/oats mixture.  When well combined, fold in chocolate chips.  Drop by rounded tablespoons onto greased cookie sheets.  Bake for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown.  Cool on baking sheet; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Makes approximately 4 dozen cookies

1 Serving = 1 cookie

80 calories, 3.5 g fat, 2 g sat fat, 1 g mono fat, 6 mg chol, 70 mg sodium, 1 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 1.5 g protein

Remember, they may have healthier ingredients, but they are still cookies.  Moderation is the key!

Think Healthy…not Skinny!

 

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2010-12-17 11:54:30

Quinoa Salad with Feta, Pine Nuts and Cranberries

 

Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is known for being a high protein grain and containing a balanced set of essential amino acids making quinoa a complete protein!  Quinoa is a good source of dietary fiber, phosphorus and is high in magnesium and iron.  Another interesting fact, Quinoa is gluten-free and considered easy to digest.

Quinoa has a light, fluffy texture when cooked and it’s mild, slightly nutty flavor is a great alternative to rice or potatoes.   Prior to cooking, it’s important to rinse the quinoa under ample water.  I recommend placing a coffee filter in a colander and putting the quinoa in the coffee filter.  Rinse well and cook according to the recipe.  Quinoa is cooked similar to rice (1:2 ratio, quinoa to liquid) and can been prepared in a rice cooker.  When cooked, quinoa is translucent and the outer germ ring will be visible.

I love trying new ways to serve quinoa.  Quinoa can be used as a side dish, the main fare or tossed in soups or salads.  I tend to make a large amount early in the week and toss it onto everything!  This recipe is a basic one that complements fish, poultry, and salad or can be served all on its own. 

1 cup quinoa

2 cups low sodium chicken stock

¼ cup pine nuts

¼ cup dried cranberries

¼ cup reduced fat feta cheese

Salt to taste

Bring 2 cups of chicken stock to a boil.  Rinse quinoa well and add in to chicken stock.  Bring to a boil again, then cover, reduce heat and simmer for about 10 – 15 minutes (until all liquid is absorbed).  Allow to cool to room temperature and fluff up quinoa with a fork.  Once cooled add pine nuts, cranberries and feta.  Toss well and salt to taste if desired.  Garnish with flat leaf parsley.

Makes 6 (1/2 cup) portions

160 calories, 6g fat, 1g sat fat, 1g mono fat, 2mg chol, 140 mg sodium, 2.5g fiber, 7g protein

 

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