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2013-05-23 10:50:51

Power Green Smoothie

Life gets busy at times and eating healthy can be sacrificed in the process.  Smoothies are a great way to pack in some well-needed protein, fiber and antioxidants.  They’re convenient, portable and loved by everyone.  This smoothie is sure to be a family favorite.  It’s Green and Delicious!

Ingredients:

½ cup low fat cottage cheese
6 oz almond milk
1 scoop Barlean’s Greens Chocolate Silk
1 large hand full of kale, Swiss chard, spinach mix
4 ice cubes

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and mix well until smooth.

Makes 1 serving (16 oz):
180 calories, 2 g fat, 482 mg sodium, 4 g fiber, 18 g protein

 

Tips and Twists:
Reduce the calories and use vanilla unsweetened almond milk or add more protein and use almond milk plus (almond milk with additional protein).  Get creative and add a shot of espresso for a caffeine boost or some fresh raspberries for some extra sweetness.  Be sure to comment on your favorite variations.  We want to hear from you!

Our monthly Family Food Experts Challange was sponsored by Barlean's Organic Oils.  NutritionBabes was not compensated for this post.  

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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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2013-04-29 14:05:21

Roasted Veggies

The USDA MyPlate guidelines (www.chooseMyPlate.gov) recommend that half of our plates should be filled with fruits and vegetables for a balanced meal.  Keeping our super easy roasted veggies on hand will help you fill half that plate in a snap.  This recipe works with almost any vegetable that doesn’t wilt.  Try different varieties of squash, root veggies, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, peppers, onions, mushrooms, asparagus, eggplant, and even cherry tomatoes. 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Roughly chop enough vegetables to fill a large serving bowl.  Add 2T olive oil and toss to coat.  Cover 2 baking sheets with nonstick aluminum foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.  (you can also roast on parchment paper if you prefer) Spread veggies out over 2 trays.  Lightly sprinkle with Kosher salt.  Season with pepper, thyme or any of your favorite spices.  Bake for 40 minutes stirring once or twice.

Keep in the refrigerator for several meals over a few days.  If cooking tomatoes, add halfway through cooking time.  

The nutrient content of this recipe will vary greatly depending on what you choose to roast.  Generally, ½ cup of cooked vegetables equals one serving, and we need a few servings per meal to equal our optimal daily intake of produce.  This is generally a total of 8-12 servings depending on your caloric needs.  Once you start roasting on a regular basis, you’ll be hooked!

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2013-04-22 16:19:19

Lemony Tuna Veggie Farro Salad

Farro is a trendy ancient whole grain that is fantastic when served in a chilled salad. Though it's been enjoyed for thousands of years in Italy and the middle east, farro is now making its way into mainstream American stores and restaurants.  Check the prep time before you buy, some brands cook in 10-12 minutes, some much longer.  This recipe can easily be altered to include any of your favorite veggies.  Serve atop some mixed greens for a light, nutritious lunch.

1 cup uncooked farro (parboiled)
3 baby carrots, finely chopped (approx. 1/3 cup)
¼ cup cucumber, peeled, seeded and finely chopped
¼ cup roasted red peppers, finely chopped
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
2 cans chunk white tuna in water, drained (about 6 ½ ounces tuna once drained)
1 cup low sodium canned chick peas, drained and rinsed
zest of 1 lemon
juice of 2 lemons
3 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ fresh parsley, chopped

Cook farro according to package instructions, drain, and put in refrigerator to cool. Add carrots, cucumber, peppers, onions, tuna and chick peas to a large bowl.  In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, zest, olive oil, salt and pepper and whisk well.  Pour dressing over salad and mix well.  Cover and refrigerate allowing the flavors to absorb for a few hours.

Makes 5 servings: Servings size 1 cup:
291 calories, 10g fat, 1.2g sat fat, 19mg chol, 331mg sodium, 37g carbohydrates, 5.5g fiber, 1.6g sugar, 15.4g protein

Tips and Twists:
If you want even more protein, toss in some extra tuna or chick peas. The sodium level can be lowered even more by using no salt added tuna.  Chuck white tuna is called for because it contains less mercury than solid white albacore tuna. If you like more flavor, add the zest of the 2nd lemon or increase the onion, pepper and parsley.

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2013-02-10 19:32:17

Spinach and White Bean Quesadilla

When you are tight on time, grab a meal that’s packed with protein and fiber.  Our favorite meal, that can be prepared in just 5 minutes, is a quesadilla.  It’s healthy, filling and will give you lasting energy!  We packed our quesadilla with spinach, white beans and reduced-fat cheese and of course used whole wheat tortillas.  We love this meal for many reasons; to start the beans are loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber and protein.  The spinach is extremely high in antioxidants, high in iron and calcium, as well as packed with fiber.  The reduced-fat cheese is rich in calcium and is a good quality protein, and the whole wheat tortillas are packed with more fiber. This protein and fiber rich meal will keep you feeling satisfied longer, will help stabilize your blood sugar and give you long-lasting energy.  Mix it up by adding your favorite beans, vegetables or reduced-fat cheese.  The possibilities are endless. Serve this as a delicious Meatless Monday meal!

Ingredients:

2 whole wheat tortillas (approximately 100 calories each)

olive oil non-stick spray

1 cup baby leaf spinach

½ cup white beans, rinsed & drained

½ cup reduced-fat mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Heat a skillet over medium-high and coat with non-stick spray.  Place 1 whole wheat tortilla in the center of pan.  Add on top of the tortilla baby leaf spinach, while beans, and reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese.  Top with the other tortilla.  Once the bottom tortilla is golden brown, approximately 1-2 minutes, flip it to the other side.  Brown and remove the quesadilla from the pan.  Slice the tortilla and serve.

Serves 1

440 calories, 11 grams fiber, 30 grams protein

 

 

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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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2013-01-22 19:51:15

Chicken Vegetable Soup with Freekeh

Freekeh (pronounced free-kah) is a delicious, nutritious grain made from roasted green grains.  It is a ancient Middle Eastern dish that is becoming quite trendy here in the United States.  Some would say Freekeh is a Superfood as its nutritional attributes are superior compared to other grains.  Freekeh has at least 4 times as much fiber as some other comparable grains, it’s packed with protein and has a low glycemic index.  Freekeh is easy to cook and is a great addition to sweet and savory recipes. 

 

Each month we participate in a recipe challenge by The Recipe Redux, a website founded by Registered Dietitians.  The recipe challenge involves us making over an existing recipe in a healthier way, or inventing a new one based on the "theme".  This month's theme is “A Trend in Every Pot”.  We picked a new trendy food for 2013 and added it to our recipe makeover.  An old time favorite, Chicken and Rice Soup was made a bit healthier with our new found food fave– Freekeh!

Ingredients:

3 boneless chicken breasts
4 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 carrots, diced
4 celery stalks, diced
1 ½ cups of sliced mushrooms
1 yellow onion, diced
12 cups chicken broth
1 cup Freekeh
¼ cup fresh dill
pepper to taste

Directions:

In a large stock pot add chicken and cover with 4 cups of cold water.  Bring to a boil, cover pot, and lower heat to a simmer.  Cook approximately 12-15 minutes.  Remove chicken from pot, let cool and shred with a fork.  Set chicken aside.  Discard water in pot.

In same pot, add olive oil and heat over medium-high.  Add carrots, celery, mushrooms and onions.  Cook until tender, approximately 10 minutes.  Add chicken broth, freekeh, dill and chicken.  Add pepper to taste.  Cover, reduce heat, and simmer until Freekeh is tender, approximately 30 minutes.  Enjoy!

Serves 6

Per serving
150 calories, 5 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 2.5 g fiber, 12 g protein

 

 

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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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2012-05-30 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 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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2012-05-19 14:58:01

Light California Roll Napoleon

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 healthier way, or invent a new one based on the "theme".  This month's challenge asked us to use "little" fishes or sea vegetables.  The result was a low calorie version of a sushi favorite.  Our featured ingredient...roasted seaweed!

6 slices rectangular roasted seaweed snacks (like the kind by Trader Joes)
¼ cup crab meat, flaked (or imitation crab if you prefer)
¼ of a cucumber, peeled and sliced into matchsticks
⅕ of an avocado, sliced thin
1 tsp wasabi mustard
1T light soy sauce (optional)

Stack 2 slices of seaweed on a plate, add ½ of crab, avocado and cucumber. Repeat for second layer and top with final 2 sheets of seaweed.  If desired, you may spread the wasabi mustard onto the seaweed or dip if you prefer.

Makes one serving: (without soy sauce, if added will contribute additional 575mg of sodium per Tablespoon)
111 calories, 6g fat, .8g sat fat, 50mg chol, 480mg sodium, 2.6g fiber, 8g protein. 

Tips and Twists:
This is difficult to eat if not consumed immediately as the seaweed will soak up moisture and become soggy.  If preferred, in a bowl, start with a seaweed base and add the remaining ingredients like you are building a salad.  Drizzle wasabi and soy sauce on top and enjoy!  You can even crumble additional seaweed sheets on top.  Add brown rice if you want a more substantial snack or make more than one for a light lunch.

 

 

               

 

 


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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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2012-04-26 15:13:15

NutritionBabes Tuna Salad with Greek Yogurt
 

2 cans Wild Planet, Wild Albacore Tuna - no salt added with liquid (www.wildplanetfoods.com)

1/2 small red onion, peeled and diced

2 carrots peeled and diced

1/2 cup 0% Greek Yogurt 

 

When using Wild Planet Tuna, there is no need to drain liquid.  Place tuna in a medium size bowl and break apart well with a fork.  Mix together onions, carrots and Greek Yogurt with tuna.  

 

Makes 4 servings

180 calories, 7.5g fat, 0.5g sat fat, 18 mg chol, 25mg sodium, 1 g fiber, 20 g protein.


Tips and Twists:

Works well to blend ingredients in a food processor for a smoother salad.  If using another tuna beside Wild Planet you will need 4 (5 oz) cans of Chunk White Tuna, drained and rinsed.  Get creative, add chick peas, celery, tomatoes and peppers, anything goes!  Pair with your favorite green salad, sliced veggies or whole grain bread.

 

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2012-03-28 18:40:58

NutritionBabes Egg Salad

8 hard boiled eggs 
1 avocado
½ cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt 
salt to taste
Peel and slice eggs evenly and remove yolks.  Add 6 yolks, avocado and Greek yogurt to a small bowl and mash together well with a fork.  Discard remaining egg yolk.  Chop egg whites and blend with yolk mixture.  Serve over a bed of fresh spinach or your favorite green salad.  

Makes 4 servings.
½ cup portion of egg salad only (without salt to taste)
98 calories, 5.5 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 0.5 g poly fat, 2 g mono fat, 130 mg chol, 60 mg sodium, 1g fiber, 7 g PRO

Tips and Twists:

Egg Salad is great as a sandwich or wrap; make it whole wheat and add sliced onion, tomatoes, peppers or carrots.  Pack on the veggies.  Also scoop on a bed of greens and add a side of fruit.  Egg Salad can fit in for any meal or snack.  Enjoy!

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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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2012-02-17 19:53:49

Collard Green and White Bean Chicken Soup

1 T extra virgin olive oil
2 large fresh garlic cloves, chopped (not minced)
12 oz collard greens, chopped (approx 8 ounces of leaves once stems are removed)
¼ tsp Kosher salt
1 quart low sodium chicken broth (preferably gluten free)
1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
3 T Pecorino Romano cheese
freshly ground pepper
1 pound baked chicken breast (skin removed), cubed
(optional) 2 cups cooked whole grain egg noodles

Heat large pot with lid over medium to medium-high heat.  Add olive oil and sauté garlic for approx 15-20 seconds.  Add collard greens and sauté until wilted, approx 3 minutes. Add salt, then chicken broth, beans and Pecorino Romano cheese.  Cover, reduce heat slightly and simmer until heated through approx 10-15 minutes.  Add chicken (and noodles) and heat through.  Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with a sprinkle of cheese.

Serves 4 (dinner portion, without noodles)
363 calories, 9g fat, 2.4g sat fat, 100mg chol, 474mg sodium, 10g fiber, 1g sugar, 46g protein

This recipe is gluten free without the addition of the optional whole grain egg noodles.  

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2012-02-05 13:59:54

 

Veggie Omelet Bites

These delicious and nutritious individually portioned omelets are ideal to grab and go for busy mornings.  At only 60 calories each they are a nutritional bang for your buck.

Nonstick cooking spray
1 cup egg substitute
3 T 1% milk
¼ tsp. Kosher salt
¼ tsp. cracked black pepper
3 T whole wheat flour
¼ cup reduced fat (2%) shredded cheddar cheese 
¼ cup raw spinach, chopped
6 grape tomatoes, chopped
2 white or baby bella mushrooms, chopped small
2 T onion, finely chopped
 
Preheat oven to 350. Spray ½ of a muffin tin (6 cups) with nonstick spray.  In a medium bowl add egg beaters, milk, salt and pepper and whisk until bubbly. Add flour and whisk.  Add the remaining ingredients and stir.  Use a ¼ cup measuring cup to transfer mix to 6 muffin tins. Bake for approx 25 minutes or until done.

Serves 6:
60 calories, 1.2g fat, .6g sat fat, 4mg chol, 161mg sodium, .8g fiber, 1g sugar, 6.5g protein.

Tips and Twists:
This recipe is so easy to adjust to your taste.  Switch up the veggies or change the type of cheese for variety.  Make a bunch ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for a quick midweek breakfast. Add a few drops of hot sauce for extra zing and a little metabolic boost.

 

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2012-01-31 13:40:13

 

Panko Eggplant Parmesan

1 eggplant (approx 1 ¼ lbs)
salt
olive oil flavored nonstick cooking spray
½ cup egg substitute
½ cup plain whole wheat bread crumbs
½ cup seasoned Panko bread crumbs
1 ¼ cups low sodium marinara sauce 
1 cup 2% shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves

Slice eggplant into approx 15 slices ¼-1/2 inches thick.  Lay flat on cutting board and sprinkle with salt.  Let sit 20 minutes, rinse and thoroughly pat dry.  Spray nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray.  Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Place egg beaters in flat bottomed bowl.  Combine whole wheat and Panko bread crumbs together on a plate.  One by one, dip eggplant slices in egg beaters, let excess drip off and transfer to bread crumbs, coating both sides (use tongs to avoid coating your fingers).  Place on baking sheet and spray tops of eggplant slices with cooking spray.  Bake for 15 minutes, flip and bake additional 15 minutes. Remove from oven.

Assembly:
Choose 3 slices of eggplant, with the bottom slice slightly larger than the middle and top slices.  Place larger slice on plate, cover with 1 T of sauce and 1 T of cheese. Repeat for middle and top layers. To melt cheese, either place tower back on baking sheet returning to oven until cheese is melted or place in microwave for approx 30 seconds.  Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.

Makes 5 servings:
179 calories, 6g fat, 2g sat fat, 12mg chol, 403mg sodium, 5g fiber, 6g sugar, 11g protein

Tips and Twists:
This makes a wonderful “Meatless Monday” meal.  Combine with a big salad to add lots of nutrition and volume.  If you would like something more substantial, add shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken strips in between the layers.

For a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs or Quinoa flakes.

 

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2011-11-10 22:49:18

 

Chicken Noodle Soup

This is a fabulous recipe to double or triple and keep on hand!  I love to triple this recipe when I have time on a Sunday afternoon.  I then have extra stock and chicken for recipes during the week.  The chicken is great thrown in soups or salads as well as for chicken salad sandwiches for the kid’s lunchboxes!  Enjoy!

Stock ingredients:

1 (4-5 pound) roasting chicken
3 carrots, cut in thirds
2 celery stalks, cut in thirds
1 yellow onion, quartered
10 sprigs of dill
1 head of garlic, cut in half crosswise
1 package sliced mushrooms
1 teaspoon kosher salt

Ingredients to serve soup:

1 ½ cups carrots, sliced ½ inch thick
1 ½ cups celery, sliced ¼ inch thick
¼ cup dill, minced
6 oz whole grain wide noodles, uncooked

Combine chicken, carrots, celery, onions, dill, mushrooms and salt in a large stockpot.  Add 3 quarts of water and bring to a boil.  Once boiling, lower heat and simmer for 1 hour.  Pull out chicken from stockpot, remove meat and place in sealed container in refrigerator.  Return the carcass of the chicken back to the stockpot and continue to simmer up to 3 hours uncovered.  Strain all of the contents of the pot through a colander.  Place stock in small containers to cool and place in refrigerator.  Allow stock to cool over night.  Remove surface fat in the morning.  Your stock is now ready! 

To serve the soup, heat the stock in a large pot with carrots, celery, dill and noodles.  Dice reserved chicken, approximately 1 ½ cups, and add to stock.  Simmer over low heat approximately 10 minutes or until vegetables and noodles are tender. 

Makes 6 servings.

Tips and Twists:

Making this stock ahead of time and freezing it in small containers is a great way to have a quick week day meal!  It’s also good to have on hand in the freezer when a cold takes you by surprise.  The extra chicken from the reserved roaster is also great for chicken salad!  Check out our Chicken Salad recipe with Greek Yogurt!

 

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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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2011-09-18 19:37:15

 

NutritionBabes Fruit and Nut Granola Bars

Our Fruit and Nut Granola Bars are a super easy way to enjoy a quick, natural and healthy snack.  These tasty bars are low in sugar and sodium, and contain heart healthy fats from the flax seeds, nuts and sunflower seeds.  Play around with them and find your favorite flavor combination.

1 cup old-fashioned oats
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
2 Tablespoons ground flax seed 
1 cup whole grain puffed wheat cereal (unsweetened)
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup raisins, chopped
1/4 cup creamy almond butter
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 teaspoon salt
1 Tablespoon semi-sweet mini chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Coat an 8x8 or 9x9 square pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

On a baking sheet (preferably with a rim) combine oats, sunflower seeds, flaxseed and puffed wheat.  Bake for about 3 minutes, then add pecans and bake additional 2-3 minutes .  Watch closely, the nuts will burn if overcooked!  Remove from oven and place in a large bowl.  Add raisins, toss, and set aside.  In a small saucepan, combine almond butter, honey, vanilla, and salt.  Cook over medium low heat while stirring gently until bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.  Remove from heat and pour almond butter mixture over oat mixture.  Stir well with a large spoon or spatula until thoroughly combined.  Transfer to square pan and use very firm pressure to press flat with spatula.  Once flat and even, sprinkle 1 T of mini chocolate chips and press into top. Refrigerate until cool and firm, at least several hours to overnight.  Cut into 16 bars and store in refrigerator in a baggie or container with lid.

Makes 16 servings:

Per bar: 97 calories, 5g fat, 0 chol, 7g sugar, 1.5g fiber, 65mg sodium, 2.3g protein

Tips and Twists:

One of the best things about these bars is their versatility.  You can use any type of nuts; think almonds, walnuts, cashews or pistachios.  Almost any dried fruit works well too. Cherries, dates, cranberries, apricots…use your imagination.  The level of sweetness can easily increase or decrease based on the amount of fruit, honey, or other sweetener you prefer.  You can also substitute Hemp Hearts for the flaxseed to provide some extra protein and omega 3's.

 

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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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2011-08-10 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 22:39:58

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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2011-07-25 10:00:31

NutritionBabes Tuna Vegetable Salad

2 cans Wild Planet, Wild Albacore Tuna - no salt added with liquid (www.wildplanetfoods.com)

1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced

1 can (15 oz) Garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained

1 tomato, seeded and diced

1/2 small red onion, peeled and diced

1/2 red pepper, seeded and diced

2 carrots, peeled and diced

4 tablespoons canola mayonnaise

1/2 recipe of NutritionBabes Balsamic Dressing

1 head romaine lettuce leaves

 

When using Wild Planet Tuna, there is no need to drain liquid.  Place tuna in a medium size bowl and break apart well with a fork.  Add remaining ingredients except lettuce and mix well.  Break apart lettuce leaves and place on 4 plates, add 1/4 of tuna mixture on top of each plate.  Garnish with lemon wedges.

 

Makes 4 servings

290 calories, 14g fat, 1.25g sat fat, 1 g mono fat, 2.5 g poly fat, 24 mg chol, 300 mg sodium, 5 g fiber, 26 g protein.


Tips and Twists:

If using another tuna beside Wild Planet you will need 4 (5 oz) cans of Chunk White Tuna, drained and rinsed.  Substitute your favorite vegetable and beans, anything goes! 

 

 

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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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2011-06-27 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 14:24:43

Tilapia with Mango and Peach Salsa  

1 cup mango, peeled and diced

1 cup peaches, peeled and diced

1 cup tomatoes, diced

1/2 cup red onion, diced

1 teaspoon lime juice

1 Tablespoon fresh cilantro

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

3/4 cup orange juice, separate out 2 Tablespoons 

4 (4 oz) Tilapia Loins

Pour orange juice (separate out 2 T and set aside) into Ziploc bag with tilapia.  Seal and place in refrigerator for 10 minutes.  Preheat grill to medium-high heat.  Combine mango, peaches, tomatoes and onion with lime juice, cilantro and remainder of orange juice.  Place tilapia on well greased grill.  Cook approximately 5-7 minutes, turning once or until internal temperature is 145 degrees. Plate fish and top with salsa.  Enjoy!

Makes 4 servings.

Tips and Twists:

Any fish or chicken would work well with the salsa.  Chopped avocado would also work well, simply add on top with salsa.  The fish and salsa create a great salad over greens.  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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2011-05-24 23:56:40

NutritionBabes Cabbage Soup

This recipe incorporates many powerhouse foods.  It’s packed with vitamin C, potassium and fiber.  This soup is perfect to make ahead and reheat later for a quick meal.  Enjoy!

3 Tablespoons olive oil, separated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium yellow onion, diced
¾ cup carrots, peeled and sliced
½ cup celery, sliced
¾ cup zucchini, sliced and cut in half
1 large container (32 oz) low sodium chicken broth
2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 small bag (approximately 5 oz) baby spinach
2 can (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, separated
½ small head of green cabbage, sliced coarsely
½ pound lean ground turkey
½ teaspoon kosher salt
pepper to taste

In a large stock pot heat 2 Tablespoons olive oil and garlic for approximately 1 minute over medium-high heat.  Add onions and cook until translucent.  Add carrots, celery and zucchini and cook until vegetable are soft.  Add chicken broth, potatoes, spinach, 1 can diced tomatoes with liquid and cabbage.  Add salt and pepper to taste.  Cook until potatoes are soft, approximately 20 - 30 minutes.  In a separate pan, heat 1 Tablespoon olive oil on medium-high heat and add ground turkey.   Break apart ground turkey with a fork while browning.  When turkey is no longer pink, add 1 can of diced tomatoes, coat meat and heat through.  Add meat mixture to soup.  Mix well and serve.

Makes 6 servings

1 serving = 2 cups
250 calories, 10 grams fat, 2 grams sat fat, 30 mg chol, 330 mg sodium, 6.5 grams fiber, 15 grams protein

Tips and Twists
Instead of potatoesconsider adding your favorite beans.  Vary the vegetables!  You can also add green beans, asparagus or yellow squash.  Beef or vegetable broth can be substituted for the chicken broth to meet your preferences.

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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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2011-04-15 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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2011-03-02 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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2011-02-16 12:01:22

Pistachio Crusted Tilapia

6 (4 oz each) Tilapia fillets

1 cup pistachios, shelled

1 teaspoon crushed garlic,

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

1 teaspoon thyme

1 teaspoon rosemary

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

6 teaspoons honey

Preheat oven to 375 degrees

Grind pistachios, garlic, basil, thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper in a small food processor.  Transfer mixture onto a plate.  Rinse tilapia and pat dry with a paper towel.  Coat the top side of each tilapia fillet with one teaspoon of honey.   Press honey coated side into pistachio mixture.  Spray baking pan with non stick spray and place fish, pistachio side up, onto pan.  Bake in oven 15-17 minutes until fish flakes with a fork.  Serves 6

237 calories, 10.5 g fat, 1.5 g sat fat, 56 mg chol, 138 mg sodium, 2.5g fiber, 7 g sugar, 26 g protein

Tips and Twists:

Serve this fish entree with 1/2-1 cup   of your favorite whole grain side dish or baked sweet potato.  Don't forget the veggies! 

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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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2011-02-07 18:17:16

 

Fruit and Oatmeal Breakfast Parfait

Oatmeal is a heart healthy powerhouse food.  This recipe is a fabulous way to get your daily dose of oatmeal in an entirely different way.  While fresh is best, frozen berries also work well in this recipe because they release extra juice as they defrost, which will add moisture and sweetness to the parfait.  It's best to prepare the oatmeal/yogurt mixture the night before, to allow the oatmeal to reach the desired consistency.

1/4 cup old fashioned oats, dry 
1/2 cup 0% Greek yogurt 
cinnamon to taste
sugar, honey, or preferred sweetener to taste
1oz. unsweetened vanilla almond milk, light vanilla soy milk, or skim milk
3/4 cup frozen strawberries, defrosted or 11/4 cup fresh 
1 tablespoon almonds, slivered or sliced or 1/4 cup Kashi Go Lean Crunch cereal


In a small plastic container with a lid, combine the oats, yogurt, cinnamon, sweetener of choice, and splash of chosen milk.  Cover and put in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.  It will seem wet when mixed but the oatmeal will absorb the extra liquid.

When ready to eat, take a tall glass, and place ½ of the oat mixture in the bottom. Then top with ½ the of strawberries, and ½ of the almonds or Kashi Go Lean Crunch.  Repeat for the top layer. 

Makes one serving.  237 calories, 5g fat, 0mg cholesterol, 57mg sodium, 6.3g fiber, 13g sugar, 16.6g protein.

Tips and Twists:

GLUTEN FREE OPTION: Use gluten free oats and almonds instead of the Kashi Go Lean cereal.

This recipe can be made with your fruit of choice, but the calorie/sugar content will vary.

When in season, fresh fruit makes this parfait fabulous!  If you desire the "juicy" effect, simply microwave your fruit for 30 seconds to one minute, or until you see some juices forming.

Remember that the nutrition facts do not include added sweetener.  Each packet of artificial sweetener contains approximately 4 calories, each teaspoon of sugar or equivalent is 16 calories.  

 

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2011-02-01 18:16:32

Sweet Potato Fries

8 large sweet potatoes

½ teaspoon Kosher salt

½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper

2 Tablespoons Olive Oil

Olive oil nonstick spray


Preheat oven to 450 degrees

Wash potatoes, peel and rinse again under cold water.  Dry potatoes very well with paper towels.  Slice potatoes lengthwise in ¾ inch thick slices then cut into ½ inch to ¾ inch thick fries.  Place sliced potatoes in large mixing bowl.   Add salt, pepper and olive oil over potatoes and toss well.  Evenly space fries on cookie sheets making sure fries are not touching and all seasoning on the bottom of the bowl is sprinkled over fries.  Bake for 10-15 minutes and then flip with tongs.  Bake an additional 6-8 minutes depending on desired consistency. 

*Line clear plastic cups with white cocktail napkins and place fries standing up.  This makes for a great presentation and the napkins help absorb the oil.

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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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2011-01-11 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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2011-01-06 09:49:14

 

Quick and Healthy Homemade Pizza

Pizza is a staple in many American’s diets.  Most calorie counters view pizza as a weight control saboteur.  Luckily, there are so many fabulous alternatives to the usual high fat/high calorie pizza ingredients.  The NutritionBabes healthy homemade pizza is super quick and easy.  Switch up the toppings for variety, and add extra veggies for lots of fiber, or lean meats for extra protein.  The possibilities are endless!

100 calorie whole grain lavash bread, flatbread or whole wheat tortilla
¼ cup jarred marinara sauce (50-70 calories per ½ cup, preferably low sodium)
¼ cup reduced fat (2%) mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
dry oregano, dry red pepper flakes
handful of fresh spinach leaves
4 fresh mushrooms, sliced
2 broccoli florets

Lay the lavash or tortilla out on a plate or baking tray. 
Spread sauce evenly on tortilla.  Lay out mushrooms, spinach, or other chosen toppings. 
Sprinkle cheese over entire pizza.  Season with oregano and red pepper flakes to taste.
Carefully place pizza directly on rack in toaster oven or range oven.  Toast for 3-4 minutes, or bake at 350 degrees until cheese is melted and bubbly. 

Serves 1
Per serving: 218 calories, 9g fat, 3g sat fat, 15mg chol, 656mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate, 10g fiber, 2.5g sugar, 21g protein

Tips and Twists 

Look for the highest fiber and protein content in your tortillas for the least amount of calories.

Add grilled chicken strips, lean ham pieces, or other desired lean meats.  A few slices of turkey or veggie pepperoni adds great flavor.

Experiment with different veggies. Small diced peppers, broccoli pieces, and thinly sliced onions work really well too.

Look for a marinara sauce with minimal ingredients.  If you can’t pronounce it, or don’t recognize it, it does not belong in your sauce.  Also look for sauce made with olive oil rather than soybean or other oils.

Buy a good quality pizza slicer, and cut your creation into small pieces.  It will give the perception of a much larger portion. 

This can easily be eaten for lunch, dinner, or a snack if you share.

 

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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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2010-12-17 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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