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Roasted Zucchini Flatbread with Hummus, Arugula, Goat Cheese, and Almonds

Here’s something for the Better Body vegetarians. Try the recipe and let me know what you think! 

Ingredients
4 small zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds (about 1 1/2 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Kosher salt
4 round, pocketless whole-grain pita
1/3 cup prepared hummus
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
2 cups baby arugula
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1 lemon, quartered, for serving
Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Place the zucchini on a baking sheet. Drizzle with the olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt; mix well and spread to 1 layer.
Roast until browned and very tender, about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
2. Warm the pita on a grill or griddle until nicely toasted, but still soft, and spread each with 1 heaping tablespoon hummus.
Top each piece with 1 tablespoon crumbled goat cheese, 1/4 of the roasted zucchini, about 1/2 cup baby arugula, and 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped almonds. Serve with a lemon wedge.

Roasted Zucchini Flatbread with Hummus, Arugula, Goat Cheese, and Almonds

Here’s something for the Better Body vegetarians. Try the recipe and let me know what you think! 

Ingredients

  • 4 small zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds (about 1 1/2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • 4 round, pocketless whole-grain pita
  • 1/3 cup prepared hummus
  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 2 cups baby arugula
  • 1/4 cup chopped almonds
  • 1 lemon, quartered, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Place the zucchini on a baking sheet. Drizzle with the olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt; mix well and spread to 1 layer.

Roast until browned and very tender, about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

2. Warm the pita on a grill or griddle until nicely toasted, but still soft, and spread each with 1 heaping tablespoon hummus.

Top each piece with 1 tablespoon crumbled goat cheese, 1/4 of the roasted zucchini, about 1/2 cup baby arugula, and 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped almonds. Serve with a lemon wedge.

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits
This is one of my personal favorites and a cajun classic. Don’t think this dish is reserved for breakfast because of the grits. This meal is healthy and satisfying any time of day.

Ingredients
3/4 cup instant grits
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
2 large cloves garlic, minced
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving
2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
Directions

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered. Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the parmesan and 1 tablespoon butter. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm.
Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes.
Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, the lemon juice and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.
Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve with lemon wedges.
Serves: 4

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

This is one of my personal favorites and a cajun classic. Don’t think this dish is reserved for breakfast because of the grits. This meal is healthy and satisfying any time of day.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup instant grits
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving
  • 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered. Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the parmesan and 1 tablespoon butter. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm.

Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes.

Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, the lemon juice and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.

Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve with lemon wedges.

Serves: 4

Chicken Paillards With Herb-Tomato Salad
Paillards, a.k.a. scaloppini, are very thin pieces of meat or fish. They cook in a flash and are easy to make: Start with a boneless, skinless chicken breast. 
Place between two sheets of plastic wrap or waxed paper. Use a meat pounder or the bottom of a small, heavy skillet to pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
Ingredients
2 ripe medium tomatoes (1 red and 1 yellow), cored and roughly chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 clove garlic, peeled and smashed
1 scallion (white and green parts), thinly sliced
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for brushing
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
Freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup torn fresh basil
3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh tarragon
3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
4 chicken paillards, about 6 ounces each (see chef’s note, below)
Directions

Prepare an outdoor grill with a hot fire.
Toss the tomatoes, garlic, scallion, the 3 tablespoons olive oil, vinegar, the 2 teaspoons salt, and black pepper to taste in a medium bowl. Add all the herbs to the bowl but don’t toss.
Brush the chicken paillards lightly with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Grill the chicken, turning once, until cooked through, about 2 minutes per side. Stir the herbs into the tomatoes.
Put a paillard on each of 4 plates, spoon some herb-tomato salad on top (watch out for the smashed garlic-you might want to remove it), and serve.

Chicken Paillards With Herb-Tomato Salad

Paillards, a.k.a. scaloppini, are very thin pieces of meat or fish. They cook in a flash and are easy to make: Start with a boneless, skinless chicken breast.

Place between two sheets of plastic wrap or waxed paper. Use a meat pounder or the bottom of a small, heavy skillet to pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe medium tomatoes (1 red and 1 yellow), cored and roughly chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled and smashed
  • 1 scallion (white and green parts), thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for brushing
  • 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/3 cup torn fresh basil
  • 3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh tarragon
  • 3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
  • 4 chicken paillards, about 6 ounces each (see chef’s note, below)

Directions

Prepare an outdoor grill with a hot fire.

Toss the tomatoes, garlic, scallion, the 3 tablespoons olive oil, vinegar, the 2 teaspoons salt, and black pepper to taste in a medium bowl. Add all the herbs to the bowl but don’t toss.

Brush the chicken paillards lightly with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Grill the chicken, turning once, until cooked through, about 2 minutes per side. Stir the herbs into the tomatoes.

Put a paillard on each of 4 plates, spoon some herb-tomato salad on top (watch out for the smashed garlic-you might want to remove it), and serve.

Leeks with Walnut Vinaigrette

Leeks, like garlic and onions, belong to a vegetable family called the Allium vegetables. Since leeks are related to garlic and onions, they contain many of the same beneficial compounds found in these well-researched, health-promoting vegetables. 
Drizzling a bit of walnut oil over the leeks will add a big boost in flavor…enjoy.
Directions

Trim the tough dark green tops and stem ends of 12 leeks, but keep the bases intact.
Halve lengthwise and rinse well. Boil in salted water until tender, about 10 minutes.
Drain and cool in a bowl of salted ice water, then drain and pat dry.
Whisk 1 tablespoon dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in a bowl.
Whisk in 1/3 cup walnut oil and drizzle over the leeks. Top with chopped toasted walnuts and chopped parsley.

Leeks with Walnut Vinaigrette

Leeks, like garlic and onions, belong to a vegetable family called the Allium vegetables. Since leeks are related to garlic and onions, they contain many of the same beneficial compounds found in these well-researched, health-promoting vegetables. 

Drizzling a bit of walnut oil over the leeks will add a big boost in flavor…enjoy.

Directions

Trim the tough dark green tops and stem ends of 12 leeks, but keep the bases intact.

Halve lengthwise and rinse well. Boil in salted water until tender, about 10 minutes.

Drain and cool in a bowl of salted ice water, then drain and pat dry.

Whisk 1 tablespoon dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in a bowl.

Whisk in 1/3 cup walnut oil and drizzle over the leeks. Top with chopped toasted walnuts and chopped parsley.

Spanish Chicken and Potato Roast

This delicious Spanish recipe includes roasted boneless chicken thighs flavored with lemon and parsley. The chicken keeps the recipe Better Body approved, but the potatoes give it enough depth to satisfy any appetite.

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds large Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
4 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs (5 to 6 thighs)
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Freshly ground pepper
4 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 cut into wedges)
2 large or 3 medium red onions, halved and thinly sliced
Directions

Position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Place a large cast-iron baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet on the rack and preheat to 500 degrees F. Put the potatoes, garlic, olive oil, 1 tablespoon water and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large microwave-safe baking dish and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, pierce the plastic in a few places with a knife and microwave 8 minutes to partially cook.

Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with the paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add 2 tablespoons parsley and the lemon juice; toss to coat. Set aside.

Remove the hot baking dish from the oven; carefully add the potatoes and spread in an even layer. Scatter the onions on top. Roast until the potatoes start to brown, about 12 minutes.

Flip the potatoes and lay the chicken pieces on top, adding any accumulated juices from the bowl; return to the oven and roast until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 12 more minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with the lemon wedges.

Spanish Chicken and Potato Roast

This delicious Spanish recipe includes roasted boneless chicken thighs flavored with lemon and parsley. The chicken keeps the recipe Better Body approved, but the potatoes give it enough depth to satisfy any appetite.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds large Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs (5 to 6 thighs)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • Freshly ground pepper
  • 4 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 cut into wedges)
  • 2 large or 3 medium red onions, halved and thinly sliced

Directions

Position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Place a large cast-iron baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet on the rack and preheat to 500 degrees F. Put the potatoes, garlic, olive oil, 1 tablespoon water and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large microwave-safe baking dish and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, pierce the plastic in a few places with a knife and microwave 8 minutes to partially cook.

Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with the paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add 2 tablespoons parsley and the lemon juice; toss to coat. Set aside.

Remove the hot baking dish from the oven; carefully add the potatoes and spread in an even layer. Scatter the onions on top. Roast until the potatoes start to brown, about 12 minutes.

Flip the potatoes and lay the chicken pieces on top, adding any accumulated juices from the bowl; return to the oven and roast until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 12 more minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with the lemon wedges.

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Cooking the chicken over high heat quickly gives it a nicely browned look and taste without needing to deep fry. Fresh orange juice in the sauce and lots of vegetables keep the dish and the nutrition balanced.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 teaspoons cornstarch
4 teaspoons peanut oil
12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 pint small, sweet mixed peppers, quartered, or 2 mixed bell peppers, cut into 1-inch strips
6 scallions, whites cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces, greens cut into 1-inch pieces and thinly sliced vertically into thin strips
8 ounces snow peas, trimmed
Serving suggestion, cooked brown rice
Chopped peanuts for sprinkling, optional

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, chili-garlic sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, orange juice and cornstarch; set aside.
Meanwhile, coat the chicken with 2 teaspoons oil and heat large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken to taste with salt and pepper and cook, turning occasionally with a wooden spoon, 2 minutes. Transfer the partially-cooked chicken to a plate. Reserve the pan.
Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons oil in the pan; add the peppers, scallion whites, and snow peas. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in the reserved chicken; whisk the sauce again and add it to the pan.
Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened and the chicken is tender, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve over rice and sprinkle with the scallion greens and peanuts, if using.

Nutritional analysis per serving (does not include brown rice and chopped peanuts) Calories 238; Total Fat 6g (Sat Fat 1 g, Mono Fat 2g, Poly Fat 2g) ; Protein 23g; Carb 23g; Fiber 4g; Cholesterol 49mg; Sodium 329mg

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Cooking the chicken over high heat quickly gives it a nicely browned look and taste without needing to deep fry. Fresh orange juice in the sauce and lots of vegetables keep the dish and the nutrition balanced.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 4 teaspoons peanut oil
  • 12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pint small, sweet mixed peppers, quartered, or 2 mixed bell peppers, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 6 scallions, whites cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces, greens cut into 1-inch pieces and thinly sliced vertically into thin strips
  • 8 ounces snow peas, trimmed
  • Serving suggestion, cooked brown rice
  • Chopped peanuts for sprinkling, optional

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, chili-garlic sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, orange juice and cornstarch; set aside.

Meanwhile, coat the chicken with 2 teaspoons oil and heat large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken to taste with salt and pepper and cook, turning occasionally with a wooden spoon, 2 minutes. Transfer the partially-cooked chicken to a plate. Reserve the pan.

Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons oil in the pan; add the peppers, scallion whites, and snow peas. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in the reserved chicken; whisk the sauce again and add it to the pan.

Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened and the chicken is tender, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve over rice and sprinkle with the scallion greens and peanuts, if using.

Nutritional analysis per serving (does not include brown rice and chopped peanuts) Calories 238; Total Fat 6g (Sat Fat 1 g, Mono Fat 2g, Poly Fat 2g) ; Protein 23g; Carb 23g; Fiber 4g; Cholesterol 49mg; Sodium 329mg

Spring Peas With Dates and Walnuts

Spring is one of the best times of year for fresh produce. Make sure to visit your local Farmers Market as often as possible to get the healthiest, best tasting fruits and vegetables possible. Your body will thank you for it.

Ingredients
Kosher salt
2 cups shelled fresh English peas or thawed frozen peas (about 10 ounces)
1 pound sugar snap peas, trimmed
1/4 pound snow peas, trimmed and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium shallot, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped pitted dates
Pinch of cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons walnut oil
Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Fill a large bowl with ice water. If using fresh English peas, add to the boiling water and cook until tender, about 1 minute.
Add the snap peas and cook until bright green, about 2 minutes, then add the snow peas and cook 30 seconds. Drain the peas and plunge into the ice water to cool.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Add the walnuts, dates and cayenne and cook until the nuts are slightly toasted, about 1 more minute.
Drain the peas, shaking off the excess water, then add to the skillet (if using frozen peas, add them here). Add 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring, until heated through, 3 to 5 minutes.
Add the walnut oil and toss. Add more salt to taste.

Spring Peas With Dates and Walnuts

Spring is one of the best times of year for fresh produce. Make sure to visit your local Farmers Market as often as possible to get the healthiest, best tasting fruits and vegetables possible. Your body will thank you for it.

Ingredients

  • Kosher salt
  • 2 cups shelled fresh English peas or thawed frozen peas (about 10 ounces)
  • 1 pound sugar snap peas, trimmed
  • 1/4 pound snow peas, trimmed and thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium shallot, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup chopped pitted dates
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 2 teaspoons walnut oil

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Fill a large bowl with ice water. If using fresh English peas, add to the boiling water and cook until tender, about 1 minute.

Add the snap peas and cook until bright green, about 2 minutes, then add the snow peas and cook 30 seconds. Drain the peas and plunge into the ice water to cool.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Add the walnuts, dates and cayenne and cook until the nuts are slightly toasted, about 1 more minute.

Drain the peas, shaking off the excess water, then add to the skillet (if using frozen peas, add them here). Add 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring, until heated through, 3 to 5 minutes.

Add the walnut oil and toss. Add more salt to taste.

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a southern classic. If you’ve never had it, wait no longer. The best thing about it, is that it’s not only tasty but it’s also healthy.
Make sure you don’t go overboard on the butter and you have a delicious classic that can be enjoyed any time of the day
Ingredients
3/4 cup instant grits
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
2 large cloves garlic, minced
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving
2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
Directions

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered. Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the parmesan and 1 tablespoon butter. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm.
Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes.
Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, the lemon juice and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.
Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve with lemon wedges.

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a southern classic. If you’ve never had it, wait no longer. The best thing about it, is that it’s not only tasty but it’s also healthy.

Make sure you don’t go overboard on the butter and you have a delicious classic that can be enjoyed any time of the day

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup instant grits
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving
  • 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered. Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the parmesan and 1 tablespoon butter. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm.

Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes.

Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, the lemon juice and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.

Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve with lemon wedges.

Red-and-Green Salad

Here’s an easy salad recipe for when time is of the essence, but you’re still trying to stick to your Better Body diet plan.

Directions

Boil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar and the juice of 1 lemon in a saucepan until thickened, about 5 minutes. Whisk in 2/3 cup olive oil and season with salt andpepper. Combine torn frisee, romaine lettuce and red endive in a large bowl. Add sliced red onion, scallions, parsley and candied walnuts. Toss with the dressing.

Red-and-Green Salad

Here’s an easy salad recipe for when time is of the essence, but you’re still trying to stick to your Better Body diet plan.

Directions

Boil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar and the juice of 1 lemon in a saucepan until thickened, about 5 minutes. Whisk in 2/3 cup olive oil and season with salt andpepper. Combine torn friseeromaine lettuce and red endive in a large bowl. Add sliced red onionscallionsparsley and candied walnuts. Toss with the dressing.

Hearty Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup


This chicken soup is packed with zesty rich flavors and lots of good for you vegetables. By enhancing prepared low-sodium broth with lots of herbs and lemon and fresh chicken you get a soup that tastes like you simmered it all day long.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, chopped
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
6 whole sprigs, plus 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley
6 (3-inch) strips lemon zest, cut from 1 lemon
1 small head fennel, thinly sliced (2 cups), fennel tops reserved
1 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken breasts, skin removed
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
A 2-3 inch piece Parmesan rind, optional
2 carrots, sliced (1 cup)
2 stalks celery, sliced (1 cup)
Kosher salt
2 cups, whole-wheat extra-wide noodle style pasta, 
3 cups baby spinach
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, plus extra for passing
Lemon juice

1. Heat the oil in a Dutch oven set over medium heat. Add the onion and crushed red pepper flakes and cook until the onions begin to soften, 5 minutes. Meanwhile, tie the parsley sprigs, lemon zest, and fennel tops together. Add the herb bundle, broth, 2 cups of water, and, if using, the cheese rind. Bring to a very gentle simmer and simmer until the chicken is just cooked through, about 8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and set aside until cool enough to handle. Remove the meat from the bones in large strips, and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, add the sliced fennel, carrots, and celery to the broth and season with salt, to taste. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are just tender, 5 minutes. Stir in the noodles and cook until just al dente, about 5 minutes. Stir in the reserved chicken, baby spinach, and Parmesan until the chicken is heated through and the spinach is wilted. Discard the herb bundle and cheese rind. Stir in lemon juice, to taste. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and serve with additional Parmesan for passing.

Nutritional analysis per serving, 2 1/3 cups
Calories 261; Total Fat 6g (Sat Fat 1.5g, Mono Fat 3g, Poly Fat 1g); Protein 31g;
Carb 23g; Fiber 4g; Cholesterol 54mg; Sodium 402mg

Hearty Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup

This chicken soup is packed with zesty rich flavors and lots of good for you vegetables. By enhancing prepared low-sodium broth with lots of herbs and lemon and fresh chicken you get a soup that tastes like you simmered it all day long.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
  • 6 whole sprigs, plus 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley
  • 6 (3-inch) strips lemon zest, cut from 1 lemon
  • 1 small head fennel, thinly sliced (2 cups), fennel tops reserved
  • 1 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken breasts, skin removed
  • 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • A 2-3 inch piece Parmesan rind, optional
  • carrots, sliced (1 cup)
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced (1 cup)
  • Kosher salt
  • 2 cups, whole-wheat extra-wide noodle style pasta, 
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, plus extra for passing
  • Lemon juice

1. Heat the oil in a Dutch oven set over medium heat. Add the onion and crushed red pepper flakes and cook until the onions begin to soften, 5 minutes. Meanwhile, tie the parsley sprigs, lemon zest, and fennel tops together. Add the herb bundle, broth, 2 cups of water, and, if using, the cheese rind. Bring to a very gentle simmer and simmer until the chicken is just cooked through, about 8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and set aside until cool enough to handle. Remove the meat from the bones in large strips, and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, add the sliced fennel, carrots, and celery to the broth and season with salt, to taste. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are just tender, 5 minutes. Stir in the noodles and cook until just al dente, about 5 minutes. Stir in the reserved chicken, baby spinach, and Parmesan until the chicken is heated through and the spinach is wilted. Discard the herb bundle and cheese rind. Stir in lemon juice, to taste. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and serve with additional Parmesan for passing.

Nutritional analysis per serving, 2 1/3 cups

Calories 261; Total Fat 6g (Sat Fat 1.5g, Mono Fat 3g, Poly Fat 1g); Protein 31g;

Carb 23g; Fiber 4g; Cholesterol 54mg; Sodium 402mg

Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Rabe Pesto

Broccoli rabe is a common vegetable in southern Italy, but isn’t used too often here in the states. It’s a leafy green with clusters of broccoli like buds on the stalk.
Feel free to use regular broccoli if it’s easier to find at your local grocer.


Ingredients
1 bunch broccoli rabe, tough lower stems removed
1/2 cup pistachios, toasted
3/4 cup grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese, plus more for garnish
Kosher salt
1/4 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
1/2 pound orecchiette pasta
High-quality extra-virgin olive oil, for finishing (optional)
Directions

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Set up a bowl of well-salted ice water. Cook the broccoli rabe in the boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes and then immediately plunge in the salted ice water. This will prevent the broccoli rabe from being overcooked and will set the lovely green color.
Drain the broccoli rabe and squeeze out any excess water; coarsely chop. Place the broccoli rabe in the bowl of a food processor and puree until it is a coarse paste. Add the pistachios and parmigiano and puree until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning; you probably will need more salt. Add the ricotta and pulse until combined. Taste for seasoning once again-it should be full-flavored, slightly bitter and creamy at the same time. Set aside.
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. (If you are making the pasta right after the pesto, just use the broccoli rabe blanching water.) Cook the pasta 1 minute less than the cooking time on the package.
While the pasta is cooking, place the pesto in a large skillet and add about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of the pasta cooking water; place over medium-high heat. When the pasta is ready, drain and add to the skillet with the pesto. Stir vigorously to combine and cook until the sauce is creamy and heated through, 1 to 2 minutes; add salt to taste. Remove from the heat, add 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil, if desired, and stir vigorously. Garnish with more parmigiano. Voila!
Per serving: Calories 420; Fat 13.5 g (Sat. 4.4 g; Mono. 5.5 g; Poly. 2.7 g); Cholesterol 18 mg; Sodium 286 mg; Carbohydrate 54 g; Fiber 3.5 g; Protein 22 g

Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Rabe Pesto

Broccoli rabe is a common vegetable in southern Italy, but isn’t used too often here in the states. It’s a leafy green with clusters of broccoli like buds on the stalk.

Feel free to use regular broccoli if it’s easier to find at your local grocer.

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch broccoli rabe, tough lower stems removed
  • 1/2 cup pistachios, toasted
  • 3/4 cup grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese, plus more for garnish
  • Kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 pound orecchiette pasta
  • High-quality extra-virgin olive oil, for finishing (optional)

Directions

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Set up a bowl of well-salted ice water. Cook the broccoli rabe in the boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes and then immediately plunge in the salted ice water. This will prevent the broccoli rabe from being overcooked and will set the lovely green color.

Drain the broccoli rabe and squeeze out any excess water; coarsely chop. Place the broccoli rabe in the bowl of a food processor and puree until it is a coarse paste. Add the pistachios and parmigiano and puree until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning; you probably will need more salt. Add the ricotta and pulse until combined. Taste for seasoning once again-it should be full-flavored, slightly bitter and creamy at the same time. Set aside.

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. (If you are making the pasta right after the pesto, just use the broccoli rabe blanching water.) Cook the pasta 1 minute less than the cooking time on the package.

While the pasta is cooking, place the pesto in a large skillet and add about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of the pasta cooking water; place over medium-high heat. When the pasta is ready, drain and add to the skillet with the pesto. Stir vigorously to combine and cook until the sauce is creamy and heated through, 1 to 2 minutes; add salt to taste. Remove from the heat, add 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil, if desired, and stir vigorously. Garnish with more parmigiano. Voila!

Per serving: Calories 420; Fat 13.5 g (Sat. 4.4 g; Mono. 5.5 g; Poly. 2.7 g); Cholesterol 18 mg; Sodium 286 mg; Carbohydrate 54 g; Fiber 3.5 g; Protein 22 g

Roasted Peppers with Basil

This is a wonderfully simple recipe. The roasted peppers have a nice flavor and can be served alone or as a side dish to meat, poultry, or fish.  You don’t have to stop at peppers. If you’re feeling adventurous, try roasting poblanos or other chilies for different flavors.

Directions

Halve, stem and seed 2 red and 2 yellow bell peppers. Broil, cut-side down, until blackened, 5 minutes.
Place in a bowl, cover and cool; peel and cut into pieces. Saute sliced garlic in olive oil; drizzle the oil over the peppers.
Top with basil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Roasted Peppers with Basil

This is a wonderfully simple recipe. The roasted peppers have a nice flavor and can be served alone or as a side dish to meat, poultry, or fish.  You don’t have to stop at peppers. If you’re feeling adventurous, try roasting poblanos or other chilies for different flavors.

Directions

Halve, stem and seed 2 red and 2 yellow bell peppers. Broil, cut-side down, until blackened, 5 minutes.

Place in a bowl, cover and cool; peel and cut into pieces. Saute sliced garlic in olive oil; drizzle the oil over the peppers.

Top with basil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Udon with Tofu and Asian Greens

I know Better Body has a few vegetarians so I don’t want to forget about you. This delicious Tofu and Asian noodle recipe includes a heart-healthy portion of delicious greens. If you want to take the extra step, buy your greens organic from a local grocer.
Enjoy.

Ingredients
1 8-ounce package udon noodles
4 tablespoons roasted peanut oil, or 3 tablespoons sesame oil mixed with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 12-ounce package firm tofu, cut into 12 pieces
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 11-ounce package Asian cooking greens or baby spinach
1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced diagonally
Large pinch of red pepper flakes
3 tablespoons soy sauce
Pinch of sugar
Directions

Cook the udon noodles as the label directs. (Don’t overcook or they will get mushy.) Drain, reserving about 1/3 cup of the cooking water.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Pat the tofu dry and season all over with salt and pepper.
Add the tofu to the skillet and sear until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Set aside and keep warm.
Add 1 tablespoon oil and the greens to the skillet. Cook, tossing, until just wilted. Add the scallions, red pepper flakes, the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, the soy sauce and sugar.
Add the reserved cooking water; heat to create a broth. Divide the noodles and greens among 4 bowls and top with the tofu.

Udon with Tofu and Asian Greens

I know Better Body has a few vegetarians so I don’t want to forget about you. This delicious Tofu and Asian noodle recipe includes a heart-healthy portion of delicious greens. If you want to take the extra step, buy your greens organic from a local grocer.

Enjoy.

Ingredients

  • 1 8-ounce package udon noodles
  • 4 tablespoons roasted peanut oil, or 3 tablespoons sesame oil mixed with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 12-ounce package firm tofu, cut into 12 pieces
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 1 11-ounce package Asian cooking greens or baby spinach
  • 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced diagonally
  • Large pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Pinch of sugar

Directions

Cook the udon noodles as the label directs. (Don’t overcook or they will get mushy.) Drain, reserving about 1/3 cup of the cooking water.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Pat the tofu dry and season all over with salt and pepper.

Add the tofu to the skillet and sear until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Set aside and keep warm.

Add 1 tablespoon oil and the greens to the skillet. Cook, tossing, until just wilted. Add the scallions, red pepper flakes, the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, the soy sauce and sugar.

Add the reserved cooking water; heat to create a broth. Divide the noodles and greens among 4 bowls and top with the tofu.

Penne with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes 

If you’ve been to your local grocery store lately, you know that asparagus is in season. If you didn’t know, asparagus is great for detoxifying, anti-aging, and helps protect against cancer and heart-disease.
This light asparagus pasta recipe takes advantage of the flavors of local grown produce, and delivers a freshness that can’t be duplicated

Ingredients
8 ounces penne pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 pounds thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups (about 9 ounces) cherry tomatoes
1 cup shelled fresh peas
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock
1 cup grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
In a large saute pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the asparagus, season with the salt and pepper, and cook for 3 minutes until slightly soft. Add the cherry tomatoes and peas. Cook for 2 minutes.
Pour the chicken stock into the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the tomatoes start to burst and the stock is reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
Transfer the asparagus mixture to a large serving bowl. Add the cooked pasta and 1/2 of the Parmesan. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water, if needed, to loosen the pasta. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan and chopped basil.

Penne with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes 

If you’ve been to your local grocery store lately, you know that asparagus is in season. If you didn’t know, asparagus is great for detoxifying, anti-aging, and helps protect against cancer and heart-disease.

This light asparagus pasta recipe takes advantage of the flavors of local grown produce, and delivers a freshness that can’t be duplicated

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 pounds thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups (about 9 ounces) cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup shelled fresh peas
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

In a large saute pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the asparagus, season with the salt and pepper, and cook for 3 minutes until slightly soft. Add the cherry tomatoes and peas. Cook for 2 minutes.

Pour the chicken stock into the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the tomatoes start to burst and the stock is reduced by half, about 3 minutes.

Transfer the asparagus mixture to a large serving bowl. Add the cooked pasta and 1/2 of the Parmesan. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water, if needed, to loosen the pasta. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan and chopped basil.

Spanish Chicken and Potato Roast

This recipe is delicious and full of flavor. Its a nice go-to recipe when you want to make a lot of food but don’t want to slave over a hot stove. The chicken breasts are healthy and as long as you dont over do the potatoes they won’t hurt your diet.
Enjoy.

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds large Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
4 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs (5 to 6 thighs)
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Freshly ground pepper
4 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 cut into wedges)
2 large or 3 medium red onions, halved and thinly sliced
Directions

Position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Place a large cast-iron baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet on the rack and preheat to 500 degrees F. Put the potatoes, garlic, olive oil, 1 tablespoon water and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large microwave-safe baking dish and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, pierce the plastic in a few places with a knife and microwave 8 minutes to partially cook.

Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with the paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add 2 tablespoons parsley and the lemon juice; toss to coat. Set aside.

Remove the hot baking dish from the oven; carefully add the potatoes and spread in an even layer. Scatter the onions on top. Roast until the potatoes start to brown, about 12 minutes.

Flip the potatoes and lay the chicken pieces on top, adding any accumulated juices from the bowl; return to the oven and roast until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 12 more minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with the lemon wedges.

Spanish Chicken and Potato Roast

This recipe is delicious and full of flavor. Its a nice go-to recipe when you want to make a lot of food but don’t want to slave over a hot stove. The chicken breasts are healthy and as long as you dont over do the potatoes they won’t hurt your diet.

Enjoy.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds large Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs (5 to 6 thighs)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • Freshly ground pepper
  • 4 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 cut into wedges)
  • 2 large or 3 medium red onions, halved and thinly sliced

Directions

Position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Place a large cast-iron baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet on the rack and preheat to 500 degrees F. Put the potatoes, garlic, olive oil, 1 tablespoon water and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large microwave-safe baking dish and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, pierce the plastic in a few places with a knife and microwave 8 minutes to partially cook.

Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with the paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add 2 tablespoons parsley and the lemon juice; toss to coat. Set aside.

Remove the hot baking dish from the oven; carefully add the potatoes and spread in an even layer. Scatter the onions on top. Roast until the potatoes start to brown, about 12 minutes.

Flip the potatoes and lay the chicken pieces on top, adding any accumulated juices from the bowl; return to the oven and roast until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 12 more minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with the lemon wedges.

Roasted Zucchini Flatbread with Hummus, Arugula, Goat Cheese, and Almonds

Here’s something for the Better Body vegetarians. Try the recipe and let me know what you think! 

Ingredients
4 small zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds (about 1 1/2 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Kosher salt
4 round, pocketless whole-grain pita
1/3 cup prepared hummus
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
2 cups baby arugula
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1 lemon, quartered, for serving
Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Place the zucchini on a baking sheet. Drizzle with the olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt; mix well and spread to 1 layer.
Roast until browned and very tender, about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
2. Warm the pita on a grill or griddle until nicely toasted, but still soft, and spread each with 1 heaping tablespoon hummus.
Top each piece with 1 tablespoon crumbled goat cheese, 1/4 of the roasted zucchini, about 1/2 cup baby arugula, and 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped almonds. Serve with a lemon wedge.

Roasted Zucchini Flatbread with Hummus, Arugula, Goat Cheese, and Almonds

Here’s something for the Better Body vegetarians. Try the recipe and let me know what you think! 

Ingredients

  • 4 small zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds (about 1 1/2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • 4 round, pocketless whole-grain pita
  • 1/3 cup prepared hummus
  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 2 cups baby arugula
  • 1/4 cup chopped almonds
  • 1 lemon, quartered, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Place the zucchini on a baking sheet. Drizzle with the olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt; mix well and spread to 1 layer.

Roast until browned and very tender, about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

2. Warm the pita on a grill or griddle until nicely toasted, but still soft, and spread each with 1 heaping tablespoon hummus.

Top each piece with 1 tablespoon crumbled goat cheese, 1/4 of the roasted zucchini, about 1/2 cup baby arugula, and 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped almonds. Serve with a lemon wedge.

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits
This is one of my personal favorites and a cajun classic. Don’t think this dish is reserved for breakfast because of the grits. This meal is healthy and satisfying any time of day.

Ingredients
3/4 cup instant grits
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
2 large cloves garlic, minced
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving
2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
Directions

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered. Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the parmesan and 1 tablespoon butter. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm.
Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes.
Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, the lemon juice and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.
Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve with lemon wedges.
Serves: 4

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

This is one of my personal favorites and a cajun classic. Don’t think this dish is reserved for breakfast because of the grits. This meal is healthy and satisfying any time of day.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup instant grits
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving
  • 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered. Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the parmesan and 1 tablespoon butter. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm.

Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes.

Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, the lemon juice and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.

Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve with lemon wedges.

Serves: 4

Chicken Paillards With Herb-Tomato Salad
Paillards, a.k.a. scaloppini, are very thin pieces of meat or fish. They cook in a flash and are easy to make: Start with a boneless, skinless chicken breast. 
Place between two sheets of plastic wrap or waxed paper. Use a meat pounder or the bottom of a small, heavy skillet to pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
Ingredients
2 ripe medium tomatoes (1 red and 1 yellow), cored and roughly chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 clove garlic, peeled and smashed
1 scallion (white and green parts), thinly sliced
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for brushing
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
Freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup torn fresh basil
3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh tarragon
3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
4 chicken paillards, about 6 ounces each (see chef’s note, below)
Directions

Prepare an outdoor grill with a hot fire.
Toss the tomatoes, garlic, scallion, the 3 tablespoons olive oil, vinegar, the 2 teaspoons salt, and black pepper to taste in a medium bowl. Add all the herbs to the bowl but don’t toss.
Brush the chicken paillards lightly with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Grill the chicken, turning once, until cooked through, about 2 minutes per side. Stir the herbs into the tomatoes.
Put a paillard on each of 4 plates, spoon some herb-tomato salad on top (watch out for the smashed garlic-you might want to remove it), and serve.

Chicken Paillards With Herb-Tomato Salad

Paillards, a.k.a. scaloppini, are very thin pieces of meat or fish. They cook in a flash and are easy to make: Start with a boneless, skinless chicken breast.

Place between two sheets of plastic wrap or waxed paper. Use a meat pounder or the bottom of a small, heavy skillet to pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe medium tomatoes (1 red and 1 yellow), cored and roughly chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled and smashed
  • 1 scallion (white and green parts), thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for brushing
  • 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/3 cup torn fresh basil
  • 3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh tarragon
  • 3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
  • 4 chicken paillards, about 6 ounces each (see chef’s note, below)

Directions

Prepare an outdoor grill with a hot fire.

Toss the tomatoes, garlic, scallion, the 3 tablespoons olive oil, vinegar, the 2 teaspoons salt, and black pepper to taste in a medium bowl. Add all the herbs to the bowl but don’t toss.

Brush the chicken paillards lightly with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Grill the chicken, turning once, until cooked through, about 2 minutes per side. Stir the herbs into the tomatoes.

Put a paillard on each of 4 plates, spoon some herb-tomato salad on top (watch out for the smashed garlic-you might want to remove it), and serve.

Leeks with Walnut Vinaigrette

Leeks, like garlic and onions, belong to a vegetable family called the Allium vegetables. Since leeks are related to garlic and onions, they contain many of the same beneficial compounds found in these well-researched, health-promoting vegetables. 
Drizzling a bit of walnut oil over the leeks will add a big boost in flavor…enjoy.
Directions

Trim the tough dark green tops and stem ends of 12 leeks, but keep the bases intact.
Halve lengthwise and rinse well. Boil in salted water until tender, about 10 minutes.
Drain and cool in a bowl of salted ice water, then drain and pat dry.
Whisk 1 tablespoon dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in a bowl.
Whisk in 1/3 cup walnut oil and drizzle over the leeks. Top with chopped toasted walnuts and chopped parsley.

Leeks with Walnut Vinaigrette

Leeks, like garlic and onions, belong to a vegetable family called the Allium vegetables. Since leeks are related to garlic and onions, they contain many of the same beneficial compounds found in these well-researched, health-promoting vegetables. 

Drizzling a bit of walnut oil over the leeks will add a big boost in flavor…enjoy.

Directions

Trim the tough dark green tops and stem ends of 12 leeks, but keep the bases intact.

Halve lengthwise and rinse well. Boil in salted water until tender, about 10 minutes.

Drain and cool in a bowl of salted ice water, then drain and pat dry.

Whisk 1 tablespoon dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in a bowl.

Whisk in 1/3 cup walnut oil and drizzle over the leeks. Top with chopped toasted walnuts and chopped parsley.

Spanish Chicken and Potato Roast

This delicious Spanish recipe includes roasted boneless chicken thighs flavored with lemon and parsley. The chicken keeps the recipe Better Body approved, but the potatoes give it enough depth to satisfy any appetite.

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds large Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
4 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs (5 to 6 thighs)
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Freshly ground pepper
4 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 cut into wedges)
2 large or 3 medium red onions, halved and thinly sliced
Directions

Position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Place a large cast-iron baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet on the rack and preheat to 500 degrees F. Put the potatoes, garlic, olive oil, 1 tablespoon water and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large microwave-safe baking dish and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, pierce the plastic in a few places with a knife and microwave 8 minutes to partially cook.

Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with the paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add 2 tablespoons parsley and the lemon juice; toss to coat. Set aside.

Remove the hot baking dish from the oven; carefully add the potatoes and spread in an even layer. Scatter the onions on top. Roast until the potatoes start to brown, about 12 minutes.

Flip the potatoes and lay the chicken pieces on top, adding any accumulated juices from the bowl; return to the oven and roast until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 12 more minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with the lemon wedges.

Spanish Chicken and Potato Roast

This delicious Spanish recipe includes roasted boneless chicken thighs flavored with lemon and parsley. The chicken keeps the recipe Better Body approved, but the potatoes give it enough depth to satisfy any appetite.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds large Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs (5 to 6 thighs)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • Freshly ground pepper
  • 4 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 cut into wedges)
  • 2 large or 3 medium red onions, halved and thinly sliced

Directions

Position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Place a large cast-iron baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet on the rack and preheat to 500 degrees F. Put the potatoes, garlic, olive oil, 1 tablespoon water and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large microwave-safe baking dish and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, pierce the plastic in a few places with a knife and microwave 8 minutes to partially cook.

Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with the paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add 2 tablespoons parsley and the lemon juice; toss to coat. Set aside.

Remove the hot baking dish from the oven; carefully add the potatoes and spread in an even layer. Scatter the onions on top. Roast until the potatoes start to brown, about 12 minutes.

Flip the potatoes and lay the chicken pieces on top, adding any accumulated juices from the bowl; return to the oven and roast until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 12 more minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with the lemon wedges.

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Cooking the chicken over high heat quickly gives it a nicely browned look and taste without needing to deep fry. Fresh orange juice in the sauce and lots of vegetables keep the dish and the nutrition balanced.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 teaspoons cornstarch
4 teaspoons peanut oil
12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 pint small, sweet mixed peppers, quartered, or 2 mixed bell peppers, cut into 1-inch strips
6 scallions, whites cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces, greens cut into 1-inch pieces and thinly sliced vertically into thin strips
8 ounces snow peas, trimmed
Serving suggestion, cooked brown rice
Chopped peanuts for sprinkling, optional

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, chili-garlic sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, orange juice and cornstarch; set aside.
Meanwhile, coat the chicken with 2 teaspoons oil and heat large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken to taste with salt and pepper and cook, turning occasionally with a wooden spoon, 2 minutes. Transfer the partially-cooked chicken to a plate. Reserve the pan.
Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons oil in the pan; add the peppers, scallion whites, and snow peas. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in the reserved chicken; whisk the sauce again and add it to the pan.
Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened and the chicken is tender, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve over rice and sprinkle with the scallion greens and peanuts, if using.

Nutritional analysis per serving (does not include brown rice and chopped peanuts) Calories 238; Total Fat 6g (Sat Fat 1 g, Mono Fat 2g, Poly Fat 2g) ; Protein 23g; Carb 23g; Fiber 4g; Cholesterol 49mg; Sodium 329mg

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Cooking the chicken over high heat quickly gives it a nicely browned look and taste without needing to deep fry. Fresh orange juice in the sauce and lots of vegetables keep the dish and the nutrition balanced.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 4 teaspoons peanut oil
  • 12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pint small, sweet mixed peppers, quartered, or 2 mixed bell peppers, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 6 scallions, whites cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces, greens cut into 1-inch pieces and thinly sliced vertically into thin strips
  • 8 ounces snow peas, trimmed
  • Serving suggestion, cooked brown rice
  • Chopped peanuts for sprinkling, optional

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, chili-garlic sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, orange juice and cornstarch; set aside.

Meanwhile, coat the chicken with 2 teaspoons oil and heat large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken to taste with salt and pepper and cook, turning occasionally with a wooden spoon, 2 minutes. Transfer the partially-cooked chicken to a plate. Reserve the pan.

Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons oil in the pan; add the peppers, scallion whites, and snow peas. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in the reserved chicken; whisk the sauce again and add it to the pan.

Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened and the chicken is tender, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve over rice and sprinkle with the scallion greens and peanuts, if using.

Nutritional analysis per serving (does not include brown rice and chopped peanuts) Calories 238; Total Fat 6g (Sat Fat 1 g, Mono Fat 2g, Poly Fat 2g) ; Protein 23g; Carb 23g; Fiber 4g; Cholesterol 49mg; Sodium 329mg

Spring Peas With Dates and Walnuts

Spring is one of the best times of year for fresh produce. Make sure to visit your local Farmers Market as often as possible to get the healthiest, best tasting fruits and vegetables possible. Your body will thank you for it.

Ingredients
Kosher salt
2 cups shelled fresh English peas or thawed frozen peas (about 10 ounces)
1 pound sugar snap peas, trimmed
1/4 pound snow peas, trimmed and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium shallot, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped pitted dates
Pinch of cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons walnut oil
Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Fill a large bowl with ice water. If using fresh English peas, add to the boiling water and cook until tender, about 1 minute.
Add the snap peas and cook until bright green, about 2 minutes, then add the snow peas and cook 30 seconds. Drain the peas and plunge into the ice water to cool.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Add the walnuts, dates and cayenne and cook until the nuts are slightly toasted, about 1 more minute.
Drain the peas, shaking off the excess water, then add to the skillet (if using frozen peas, add them here). Add 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring, until heated through, 3 to 5 minutes.
Add the walnut oil and toss. Add more salt to taste.

Spring Peas With Dates and Walnuts

Spring is one of the best times of year for fresh produce. Make sure to visit your local Farmers Market as often as possible to get the healthiest, best tasting fruits and vegetables possible. Your body will thank you for it.

Ingredients

  • Kosher salt
  • 2 cups shelled fresh English peas or thawed frozen peas (about 10 ounces)
  • 1 pound sugar snap peas, trimmed
  • 1/4 pound snow peas, trimmed and thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium shallot, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup chopped pitted dates
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 2 teaspoons walnut oil

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Fill a large bowl with ice water. If using fresh English peas, add to the boiling water and cook until tender, about 1 minute.

Add the snap peas and cook until bright green, about 2 minutes, then add the snow peas and cook 30 seconds. Drain the peas and plunge into the ice water to cool.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Add the walnuts, dates and cayenne and cook until the nuts are slightly toasted, about 1 more minute.

Drain the peas, shaking off the excess water, then add to the skillet (if using frozen peas, add them here). Add 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring, until heated through, 3 to 5 minutes.

Add the walnut oil and toss. Add more salt to taste.

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a southern classic. If you’ve never had it, wait no longer. The best thing about it, is that it’s not only tasty but it’s also healthy.
Make sure you don’t go overboard on the butter and you have a delicious classic that can be enjoyed any time of the day
Ingredients
3/4 cup instant grits
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
2 large cloves garlic, minced
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving
2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
Directions

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered. Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the parmesan and 1 tablespoon butter. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm.
Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes.
Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, the lemon juice and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.
Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve with lemon wedges.

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a southern classic. If you’ve never had it, wait no longer. The best thing about it, is that it’s not only tasty but it’s also healthy.

Make sure you don’t go overboard on the butter and you have a delicious classic that can be enjoyed any time of the day

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup instant grits
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving
  • 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered. Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the parmesan and 1 tablespoon butter. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm.

Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes.

Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, the lemon juice and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.

Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve with lemon wedges.

Red-and-Green Salad

Here’s an easy salad recipe for when time is of the essence, but you’re still trying to stick to your Better Body diet plan.

Directions

Boil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar and the juice of 1 lemon in a saucepan until thickened, about 5 minutes. Whisk in 2/3 cup olive oil and season with salt andpepper. Combine torn frisee, romaine lettuce and red endive in a large bowl. Add sliced red onion, scallions, parsley and candied walnuts. Toss with the dressing.

Red-and-Green Salad

Here’s an easy salad recipe for when time is of the essence, but you’re still trying to stick to your Better Body diet plan.

Directions

Boil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar and the juice of 1 lemon in a saucepan until thickened, about 5 minutes. Whisk in 2/3 cup olive oil and season with salt andpepper. Combine torn friseeromaine lettuce and red endive in a large bowl. Add sliced red onionscallionsparsley and candied walnuts. Toss with the dressing.

Hearty Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup


This chicken soup is packed with zesty rich flavors and lots of good for you vegetables. By enhancing prepared low-sodium broth with lots of herbs and lemon and fresh chicken you get a soup that tastes like you simmered it all day long.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, chopped
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
6 whole sprigs, plus 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley
6 (3-inch) strips lemon zest, cut from 1 lemon
1 small head fennel, thinly sliced (2 cups), fennel tops reserved
1 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken breasts, skin removed
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
A 2-3 inch piece Parmesan rind, optional
2 carrots, sliced (1 cup)
2 stalks celery, sliced (1 cup)
Kosher salt
2 cups, whole-wheat extra-wide noodle style pasta, 
3 cups baby spinach
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, plus extra for passing
Lemon juice

1. Heat the oil in a Dutch oven set over medium heat. Add the onion and crushed red pepper flakes and cook until the onions begin to soften, 5 minutes. Meanwhile, tie the parsley sprigs, lemon zest, and fennel tops together. Add the herb bundle, broth, 2 cups of water, and, if using, the cheese rind. Bring to a very gentle simmer and simmer until the chicken is just cooked through, about 8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and set aside until cool enough to handle. Remove the meat from the bones in large strips, and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, add the sliced fennel, carrots, and celery to the broth and season with salt, to taste. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are just tender, 5 minutes. Stir in the noodles and cook until just al dente, about 5 minutes. Stir in the reserved chicken, baby spinach, and Parmesan until the chicken is heated through and the spinach is wilted. Discard the herb bundle and cheese rind. Stir in lemon juice, to taste. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and serve with additional Parmesan for passing.

Nutritional analysis per serving, 2 1/3 cups
Calories 261; Total Fat 6g (Sat Fat 1.5g, Mono Fat 3g, Poly Fat 1g); Protein 31g;
Carb 23g; Fiber 4g; Cholesterol 54mg; Sodium 402mg

Hearty Italian Chicken and Vegetable Soup

This chicken soup is packed with zesty rich flavors and lots of good for you vegetables. By enhancing prepared low-sodium broth with lots of herbs and lemon and fresh chicken you get a soup that tastes like you simmered it all day long.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
  • 6 whole sprigs, plus 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley
  • 6 (3-inch) strips lemon zest, cut from 1 lemon
  • 1 small head fennel, thinly sliced (2 cups), fennel tops reserved
  • 1 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken breasts, skin removed
  • 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • A 2-3 inch piece Parmesan rind, optional
  • carrots, sliced (1 cup)
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced (1 cup)
  • Kosher salt
  • 2 cups, whole-wheat extra-wide noodle style pasta, 
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, plus extra for passing
  • Lemon juice

1. Heat the oil in a Dutch oven set over medium heat. Add the onion and crushed red pepper flakes and cook until the onions begin to soften, 5 minutes. Meanwhile, tie the parsley sprigs, lemon zest, and fennel tops together. Add the herb bundle, broth, 2 cups of water, and, if using, the cheese rind. Bring to a very gentle simmer and simmer until the chicken is just cooked through, about 8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and set aside until cool enough to handle. Remove the meat from the bones in large strips, and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, add the sliced fennel, carrots, and celery to the broth and season with salt, to taste. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are just tender, 5 minutes. Stir in the noodles and cook until just al dente, about 5 minutes. Stir in the reserved chicken, baby spinach, and Parmesan until the chicken is heated through and the spinach is wilted. Discard the herb bundle and cheese rind. Stir in lemon juice, to taste. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and serve with additional Parmesan for passing.

Nutritional analysis per serving, 2 1/3 cups

Calories 261; Total Fat 6g (Sat Fat 1.5g, Mono Fat 3g, Poly Fat 1g); Protein 31g;

Carb 23g; Fiber 4g; Cholesterol 54mg; Sodium 402mg

Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Rabe Pesto

Broccoli rabe is a common vegetable in southern Italy, but isn’t used too often here in the states. It’s a leafy green with clusters of broccoli like buds on the stalk.
Feel free to use regular broccoli if it’s easier to find at your local grocer.


Ingredients
1 bunch broccoli rabe, tough lower stems removed
1/2 cup pistachios, toasted
3/4 cup grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese, plus more for garnish
Kosher salt
1/4 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
1/2 pound orecchiette pasta
High-quality extra-virgin olive oil, for finishing (optional)
Directions

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Set up a bowl of well-salted ice water. Cook the broccoli rabe in the boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes and then immediately plunge in the salted ice water. This will prevent the broccoli rabe from being overcooked and will set the lovely green color.
Drain the broccoli rabe and squeeze out any excess water; coarsely chop. Place the broccoli rabe in the bowl of a food processor and puree until it is a coarse paste. Add the pistachios and parmigiano and puree until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning; you probably will need more salt. Add the ricotta and pulse until combined. Taste for seasoning once again-it should be full-flavored, slightly bitter and creamy at the same time. Set aside.
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. (If you are making the pasta right after the pesto, just use the broccoli rabe blanching water.) Cook the pasta 1 minute less than the cooking time on the package.
While the pasta is cooking, place the pesto in a large skillet and add about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of the pasta cooking water; place over medium-high heat. When the pasta is ready, drain and add to the skillet with the pesto. Stir vigorously to combine and cook until the sauce is creamy and heated through, 1 to 2 minutes; add salt to taste. Remove from the heat, add 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil, if desired, and stir vigorously. Garnish with more parmigiano. Voila!
Per serving: Calories 420; Fat 13.5 g (Sat. 4.4 g; Mono. 5.5 g; Poly. 2.7 g); Cholesterol 18 mg; Sodium 286 mg; Carbohydrate 54 g; Fiber 3.5 g; Protein 22 g

Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Rabe Pesto

Broccoli rabe is a common vegetable in southern Italy, but isn’t used too often here in the states. It’s a leafy green with clusters of broccoli like buds on the stalk.

Feel free to use regular broccoli if it’s easier to find at your local grocer.

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch broccoli rabe, tough lower stems removed
  • 1/2 cup pistachios, toasted
  • 3/4 cup grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese, plus more for garnish
  • Kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 pound orecchiette pasta
  • High-quality extra-virgin olive oil, for finishing (optional)

Directions

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Set up a bowl of well-salted ice water. Cook the broccoli rabe in the boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes and then immediately plunge in the salted ice water. This will prevent the broccoli rabe from being overcooked and will set the lovely green color.

Drain the broccoli rabe and squeeze out any excess water; coarsely chop. Place the broccoli rabe in the bowl of a food processor and puree until it is a coarse paste. Add the pistachios and parmigiano and puree until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning; you probably will need more salt. Add the ricotta and pulse until combined. Taste for seasoning once again-it should be full-flavored, slightly bitter and creamy at the same time. Set aside.

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. (If you are making the pasta right after the pesto, just use the broccoli rabe blanching water.) Cook the pasta 1 minute less than the cooking time on the package.

While the pasta is cooking, place the pesto in a large skillet and add about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of the pasta cooking water; place over medium-high heat. When the pasta is ready, drain and add to the skillet with the pesto. Stir vigorously to combine and cook until the sauce is creamy and heated through, 1 to 2 minutes; add salt to taste. Remove from the heat, add 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil, if desired, and stir vigorously. Garnish with more parmigiano. Voila!

Per serving: Calories 420; Fat 13.5 g (Sat. 4.4 g; Mono. 5.5 g; Poly. 2.7 g); Cholesterol 18 mg; Sodium 286 mg; Carbohydrate 54 g; Fiber 3.5 g; Protein 22 g

Roasted Peppers with Basil

This is a wonderfully simple recipe. The roasted peppers have a nice flavor and can be served alone or as a side dish to meat, poultry, or fish.  You don’t have to stop at peppers. If you’re feeling adventurous, try roasting poblanos or other chilies for different flavors.

Directions

Halve, stem and seed 2 red and 2 yellow bell peppers. Broil, cut-side down, until blackened, 5 minutes.
Place in a bowl, cover and cool; peel and cut into pieces. Saute sliced garlic in olive oil; drizzle the oil over the peppers.
Top with basil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Roasted Peppers with Basil

This is a wonderfully simple recipe. The roasted peppers have a nice flavor and can be served alone or as a side dish to meat, poultry, or fish.  You don’t have to stop at peppers. If you’re feeling adventurous, try roasting poblanos or other chilies for different flavors.

Directions

Halve, stem and seed 2 red and 2 yellow bell peppers. Broil, cut-side down, until blackened, 5 minutes.

Place in a bowl, cover and cool; peel and cut into pieces. Saute sliced garlic in olive oil; drizzle the oil over the peppers.

Top with basil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Udon with Tofu and Asian Greens

I know Better Body has a few vegetarians so I don’t want to forget about you. This delicious Tofu and Asian noodle recipe includes a heart-healthy portion of delicious greens. If you want to take the extra step, buy your greens organic from a local grocer.
Enjoy.

Ingredients
1 8-ounce package udon noodles
4 tablespoons roasted peanut oil, or 3 tablespoons sesame oil mixed with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 12-ounce package firm tofu, cut into 12 pieces
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 11-ounce package Asian cooking greens or baby spinach
1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced diagonally
Large pinch of red pepper flakes
3 tablespoons soy sauce
Pinch of sugar
Directions

Cook the udon noodles as the label directs. (Don’t overcook or they will get mushy.) Drain, reserving about 1/3 cup of the cooking water.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Pat the tofu dry and season all over with salt and pepper.
Add the tofu to the skillet and sear until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Set aside and keep warm.
Add 1 tablespoon oil and the greens to the skillet. Cook, tossing, until just wilted. Add the scallions, red pepper flakes, the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, the soy sauce and sugar.
Add the reserved cooking water; heat to create a broth. Divide the noodles and greens among 4 bowls and top with the tofu.

Udon with Tofu and Asian Greens

I know Better Body has a few vegetarians so I don’t want to forget about you. This delicious Tofu and Asian noodle recipe includes a heart-healthy portion of delicious greens. If you want to take the extra step, buy your greens organic from a local grocer.

Enjoy.

Ingredients

  • 1 8-ounce package udon noodles
  • 4 tablespoons roasted peanut oil, or 3 tablespoons sesame oil mixed with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 12-ounce package firm tofu, cut into 12 pieces
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 1 11-ounce package Asian cooking greens or baby spinach
  • 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced diagonally
  • Large pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • Pinch of sugar

Directions

Cook the udon noodles as the label directs. (Don’t overcook or they will get mushy.) Drain, reserving about 1/3 cup of the cooking water.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Pat the tofu dry and season all over with salt and pepper.

Add the tofu to the skillet and sear until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Set aside and keep warm.

Add 1 tablespoon oil and the greens to the skillet. Cook, tossing, until just wilted. Add the scallions, red pepper flakes, the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, the soy sauce and sugar.

Add the reserved cooking water; heat to create a broth. Divide the noodles and greens among 4 bowls and top with the tofu.

Penne with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes 

If you’ve been to your local grocery store lately, you know that asparagus is in season. If you didn’t know, asparagus is great for detoxifying, anti-aging, and helps protect against cancer and heart-disease.
This light asparagus pasta recipe takes advantage of the flavors of local grown produce, and delivers a freshness that can’t be duplicated

Ingredients
8 ounces penne pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 pounds thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups (about 9 ounces) cherry tomatoes
1 cup shelled fresh peas
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock
1 cup grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
In a large saute pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the asparagus, season with the salt and pepper, and cook for 3 minutes until slightly soft. Add the cherry tomatoes and peas. Cook for 2 minutes.
Pour the chicken stock into the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the tomatoes start to burst and the stock is reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
Transfer the asparagus mixture to a large serving bowl. Add the cooked pasta and 1/2 of the Parmesan. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water, if needed, to loosen the pasta. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan and chopped basil.

Penne with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes 

If you’ve been to your local grocery store lately, you know that asparagus is in season. If you didn’t know, asparagus is great for detoxifying, anti-aging, and helps protect against cancer and heart-disease.

This light asparagus pasta recipe takes advantage of the flavors of local grown produce, and delivers a freshness that can’t be duplicated

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 pounds thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups (about 9 ounces) cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup shelled fresh peas
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

In a large saute pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the asparagus, season with the salt and pepper, and cook for 3 minutes until slightly soft. Add the cherry tomatoes and peas. Cook for 2 minutes.

Pour the chicken stock into the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the tomatoes start to burst and the stock is reduced by half, about 3 minutes.

Transfer the asparagus mixture to a large serving bowl. Add the cooked pasta and 1/2 of the Parmesan. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water, if needed, to loosen the pasta. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan and chopped basil.

Spanish Chicken and Potato Roast

This recipe is delicious and full of flavor. Its a nice go-to recipe when you want to make a lot of food but don’t want to slave over a hot stove. The chicken breasts are healthy and as long as you dont over do the potatoes they won’t hurt your diet.
Enjoy.

Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds large Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
4 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs (5 to 6 thighs)
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Freshly ground pepper
4 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 cut into wedges)
2 large or 3 medium red onions, halved and thinly sliced
Directions

Position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Place a large cast-iron baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet on the rack and preheat to 500 degrees F. Put the potatoes, garlic, olive oil, 1 tablespoon water and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large microwave-safe baking dish and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, pierce the plastic in a few places with a knife and microwave 8 minutes to partially cook.

Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with the paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add 2 tablespoons parsley and the lemon juice; toss to coat. Set aside.

Remove the hot baking dish from the oven; carefully add the potatoes and spread in an even layer. Scatter the onions on top. Roast until the potatoes start to brown, about 12 minutes.

Flip the potatoes and lay the chicken pieces on top, adding any accumulated juices from the bowl; return to the oven and roast until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 12 more minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with the lemon wedges.

Spanish Chicken and Potato Roast

This recipe is delicious and full of flavor. Its a nice go-to recipe when you want to make a lot of food but don’t want to slave over a hot stove. The chicken breasts are healthy and as long as you dont over do the potatoes they won’t hurt your diet.

Enjoy.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds large Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs (5 to 6 thighs)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • Freshly ground pepper
  • 4 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 cut into wedges)
  • 2 large or 3 medium red onions, halved and thinly sliced

Directions

Position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Place a large cast-iron baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet on the rack and preheat to 500 degrees F. Put the potatoes, garlic, olive oil, 1 tablespoon water and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large microwave-safe baking dish and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap, pierce the plastic in a few places with a knife and microwave 8 minutes to partially cook.

Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle with the paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add 2 tablespoons parsley and the lemon juice; toss to coat. Set aside.

Remove the hot baking dish from the oven; carefully add the potatoes and spread in an even layer. Scatter the onions on top. Roast until the potatoes start to brown, about 12 minutes.

Flip the potatoes and lay the chicken pieces on top, adding any accumulated juices from the bowl; return to the oven and roast until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 12 more minutes. Remove from the oven and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with the lemon wedges.

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