Pasta Ratatouille

Pasta Ratatouille

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 9 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked pasta (try rotini, penne or bow tie noodles)
2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
1⁄2 cup chopped onion (1⁄2 medium onion)
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
1 small zucchini, cubed
1 small eggplant, cubed
2 medium tomatoes, cubed
3⁄4 teaspoon salt
1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 cup shredded cheese

Directions

  1. Cook pasta according to package Directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat (300 degrees in an electric skillet). Add onion and garlic and cook until soft.
  3. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and eggplant. Cook about 10 to 12 minutes.
  4. Stir in tomatoes, salt, pepper and basil. Cook another 2 to 4 minutes or until heated through.
  5. Serve over pasta and top with cheese.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/pasta-ratatoui...

Tasty Hamburger Skillet

Tasty Hamburger Skillet

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 9 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef (15% fat)
1⁄3 cup chopped onion (1⁄3 medium onion)
1⁄3 cup green pepper, chopped
2 cups water
1 cup long grain white rice
1 teaspoon garlic powder or 4 cloves of garlic
1 Tablespoon chili powder
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
1⁄4 teaspoon ground pepper
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained (or about 1 1/2 cups frozen)
1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1⁄2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Directions

  1. Cook ground beef, onion, and green pepper in large skillet over medium heat (300 degrees in an electric skillet) until hamburger is no longer pink. Drain excess fat from pan.
  2. Add water, rice, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, tomatoes with juice, corn, and beans.
  3. Cook, covered, for about 20 minutes or until rice is soft.
  4. Remove from stove top, sprinkle with grated cheese, and serve hot.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Tip: Garnish this dish with a tablespoon of low-fat sour cream.
  • Flavor boosters: green chilis, jalepeños, more garlic, and other seasonings.
  • Make extra! Leftovers make a great filling for tacos, burritos, filling for stuffed bell peppers, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
  • Use whole grains! Use brown rice instead of white rice and increase cooking time to 45 minutes or until rice is cooked.
  • Cook your own dry beans. One can (15 ounces) is about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 cups drained beans.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/tasty-hamburge...

Spring Fling Chowder

Spring Fling Chowder

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 8 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cups fresh or frozen asparagus, chopped into small pieces
1 large potato, peeled and diced
3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (or use water) (see Notes)
1 can (15 ounces) cream-style corn
1 cup peas, frozen or canned and drained
salt and pepper to taste
1⁄2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Directions

  1. Heat oil in large pot over medium heat (300 degrees in an electric skillet). Sauté onion, asparagus and potato until soft, about 10 minutes.
  2. Add chicken or vegetable broth and corn. Cover and simmer until potato is tender, about 10 minutes.
  3. Add peas and simmer 2 to 3 more minutes.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Top with cheese and serve warm.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Broth can be canned or made using bouillon. For each cup of broth use 1 cup very hot water and 1 teaspoon or 1 cube bouillon.
  • Leave skin on potato for added fiber.
  • Try using fresh or frozen broccoli instead of asparagus.
  • Try using canned green beans or diced tomatoes instead of peas.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/spring-fling-c...

Ham and Vegetable Chowder

Ham and Vegetable Chowder

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Makes: 10 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, chopped
1⁄2 head cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
1 large potato, peeled and diced
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) low-sodium chicken broth (see Notes)
2 cans (15 ounces each) cream-style corn
1 cup chopped lean ham (8% fat)
1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
1⁄2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Directions

  1. Heat oil in 4 quart (or larger) saucepan. Saute onion, cabbage, and potato over medium heat, stirring often, until soft, about 10 minutes.
  2. Add chicken broth, corn, ham, and pepper.
  3. Cover and simmer until potato is tender, about 10 minutes
  4. Serve hot, sprinkled with cheese.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Broth can be canned or made using bouillon. For each cup of broth use 1 cup very hot water and 1 teaspoon or 1 cube bouillon.
  • Leave skin on potato for added fiber.
  • For a vegetarian soup, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth and beans for the ham.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/ham-and-vegeta...

Quick Lasagna

Quick Lasagna

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Makes: 9 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef (15% fat)
1 large onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced, or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups spaghetti sauce
4 Tablespoons fresh parsley, or 4 teaspoons dried
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon basil
1 pint (2 cups) low-fat cottage cheese
2⁄3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
6 uncooked lasagna noodles
1⁄3 cup grated parmesan cheese

Directions

  1. Cook ground beef over medium-high heat (350 degrees in an electric skillet) until it is no longer pink.
  2. Drain fat, add onion, and cook until onion is clear.
  3. Add garlic, 1 cup of the spaghetti sauce, and herbs; spread evenly in skillet.
  4. Reduce heat to low (200 degrees in an electric skillet), spread cottage cheese over mixture, and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella. Top with 4 noodles, breaking remaining 2 to fill in open spaces.
  5. Pour remaining spaghetti sauce evenly over the top of noodles; gently press noodles down to moisten.
  6. Cover and simmer 15 minutes until noodles are tender. Top with remaining cheeses, cover, and simmer 2 more minutes or until cheeses are melted.
  7. Let stand, covered, 5-10 minutes before serving.
  8. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/quick-lasagna

Pasta with Greens and Beans

Pasta with Greens and Beans

Pasta with Greens and Beans.jpg

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 8 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (try penne)
1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
3 cloves minced garlic or 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
10 ounces frozen spinach
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
1⁄2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Directions

  1. Cook pasta according to package Directions. Set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, heat oil in large skillet. Add garlic and cook on low (250 degrees in an electric skillet) until soft.
  3. Add spinach, tomatoes with juice, drained beans, salt, and pepper. Once the mixture bubbles, cook uncovered on low heat for 5 minutes.
  4. Add drained pasta and parmesan to spinach mixture. Toss well and serve.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Substitute cleaned and chopped fresh spinach (about 6 cups).
  • Try other greens, such as Swiss chard or kale instead of spinach. Be sure to clean greens well and cook them until soft.
  • Cook your own dry beans. One can (15 ounces) is about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 cups drained beans.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/pasta-greens-a...

Cheesy Beef Pasta

Cheesy Beef Pasta

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 8 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1⁄2 pound lean ground beef (15% fat)
1 onion, diced (about 1 cup)
2 cloves garlic, minced, or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 small zucchini, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 jar (24 to 26 ounces) tomato based pasta sauce
1⁄2 teaspoon dried basil
1⁄2 teaspoon dried oregano
1⁄4 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes (optional)
12 ounces rotini pasta (about 4 cups)
2 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup)
6 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 1/2 cups)

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, cook beef, onion, garlic and zucchini over medium-high heat (350 degrees in an electric skillet) until meat is browned and broken into pieces. Drain any fat.
  2. Add the pasta sauce, basil, oregano and red pepper flakes, if desired. Bring to a simmer and cook on medium low (275 degrees in an electric skillet) for 15 minutes.
  3. Cook the pasta in boiling water according to package Directions.
  4. Drain the pasta and add to the sauce in the skillet. Stir in the cheese and cover until the cheese is melted.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Substitute broccoli for zucchini. Cook fresh broccoli with the pasta in step 3 or add frozen broccoli in step 2.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/cheesy-beef-pa...

Cheesy Polenta Pie

Cheesy Polenta Pie

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 12 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

FILLING
1⁄2 pound lean ground beef (15% fat)
1⁄2 medium onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1 can (15.5 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
1 1⁄2 cups corn (canned and drained, frozen, or fresh cooked)
1 Tablespoon chili powder
1⁄2 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder or 4 cloves of garlic
1⁄2 teaspoon oregano
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 teaspoon pepper

TOPPING
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 1⁄2 cups water
1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Directions

  1. Brown meat and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350 degrees in an electric skillet). Drain fat.
  2. Add beans, tomatoes, corn, 1 tablespoon chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Reduce heat to low (250 degrees in an electric skillet), cover, and heat thoroughly.
  4. As chili heats, mix cornmeal, salt, sugar, and 1 teaspoon chili powder with water in a small saucepan.
  5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 2 minutes. Add cheddar and mix well.
  6. Spread cornmeal mixture over chili mixture.
  7. Cover and cook over low heat, with lid slightly ajar, until topping is set, about 10 minutes.
  8. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Substitute 1-2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix for the last 6 Ingredients in the filling.
  • Cook your own dry beans. One can (15 ounces) is about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 cups drained beans.
  • One large ear of corn makes about 1 cup of cut corn.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/cheesy-polenta...

Chicken Enchilada Soup

Chicken Enchilada Soup

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 12 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

2 teaspoons oil
1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium)
2 cloves garlic, minced, or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 can (16 ounces) navy beans
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) fat-free chicken broth (see Notes)
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
2 cans (4 ounces each) chopped green chilies
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
1⁄2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup shredded cheese
10 thin corn tortillas

Directions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot. Add onion, garlic, and cumin, and sauté until onion is softened but not browned.
  2. Drain and rinse beans. Add drained beans, tomatoes with liquid, and chicken broth. Heat to a boil. Reduce heat.
  3. Stir in tomato sauce, chilies, oregano, and chicken. Simmer 15 minutes.
  4. When ready to serve, stir in cilantro and 1 cup cheese until melted. Serve tortilla strips on the side as soup toppings.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Broth can be canned or made using bouillon. For each cup of broth use 1 cup very hot water and 1 teaspoon or 1 cube bouillon.
  • To make tortilla strips, stack tortillas and cut in half. Cut each half-stack into thin strips. Spread strips on a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees, tossing frequently, for 15 minutes or until crispy and starting to lightly brown.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/chicken-enchil...

Vegetarian Chili

Vegetarian Chili

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 8 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

2 teaspoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 cup corn, frozen or canned and drained
1 can (15.5 ounce) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (8 ounce) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounce) stewed tomatoes
1⁄2 cup bulgur, uncooked
1⁄2 cup water
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 cup cheddar cheese, grated (low fat)

Directions

  1. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat (350 degrees in an electric skillet).
  2. Add garlic, onion, pepper, and mushrooms and saute until tender, 6-8 minutes.
  3. Add remaining Ingredients except cheese.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook until bulgur is soft, 10-15 minutes.
  5. Sprinkle with grated cheese and serve.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Use kidney or black beans instead of pinto beans.
  • One large ear of corn makes about 1 cup of cut corn.
  • Top with light sour cream.
  • Cook your own dry beans. One can (15 ounces) is about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 cups drained beans.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/vegetarian-chi...

Spicy Rice Casserole

Spicy Rice Casserole

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Makes: 8 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef (15% fat)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 small bell or jalapeño pepper, chopped
1 cup rice, uncooked
2 cups chopped tomato, fresh or canned, with juice
2 cups water
1 Tablespoon chili powder (or more to taste)
1 Tablespoon dried oregano leaves
1 teaspoon salt
3⁄4 cup (3 ounces) shredded low fat cheddar cheese

Directions

  1. Brown meat in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350 degrees in an electric skillet). Drain fat.
  2. Add onion and peppers and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until vegetables are soft.
  3. Add rice, tomato, 2 cups water, and spices. Mix well and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Add more water if needed.
  5. Sprinkle with cheese and serve.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Try brown rice and simmer for 10 more minutes.
  • If using instant rice, reduce water to 1 cup.
  • Try ground turkey in place of beef.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/spicy-rice-cas...

Skillet Lasagna

Skillet Lasagna

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 8 cups
Serving Size 1 Cup

Ingredients

1⁄2 pound ground beef
1⁄2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves minced garlic or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 1⁄2 cups spaghetti or pasta sauce (26 to 28 ounce container)
1 cup water
8 ounces wide noodles
1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed (10 ounce)
1 package lowfat cottage cheese (12 ounces or 2 cups)
1⁄2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (4 ounces)

Directions

  1. Stir ground beef, onion, and garlic together in a large skillet over medium high heat (350 degrees in an electric skillet) until meat is browned.
  2. Add spaghetti sauce and water to skillet and bring to a boil.
  3. Add uncooked noodles, stir, cover with lid, reduce the heat and simmer 5 minutes.
  4. Squeeze the thawed spinach to remove the juice then stir into the noodle mixture. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Spoon cottage cheese over the top. Sprinkle with mozzarella, cover and heat another 5 to 10 minutes until heated through and noodles are tender.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Add fresh or canned (drained) sliced mushrooms.
  • Use whole wheat pasta instead to increase fiber and make this a whole grain meal.
  • Try pasta in a different shape.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/skillet-lasagn...

Savory Oatmeal

Savory Oatmeal

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Serving Size 1/2 cup

Ingredients

1⁄2 cup non-fat or 1% milk
1 1⁄2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1⁄2 cup steel cut oats
1⁄3 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
1⁄4 cup green onion, diced
1⁄2 cup tomatoes, diced

Directions

  1. Combine milk and broth in a medium saucepan over high heat. Heat until mixture starts to boil.
  2. Stir in oats and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid is absorbed. Oats should be tender and cooked through.
  3. Stir in cheese and green onion. Top with tomatoes.
  4. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/savory-oatmeal

Butternut Squash and Chile Pan-Fry

Butternut Squash and Chile Pan-Fry

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 7 cups
Serving Size 2/3 cup

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds
1 1⁄2 Tablespoons oil
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 teaspoon chili powder
2 cans (4 ounce each) diced green chilies (see Notes section)
1 cup grated cheese (try Monterey jack)

Directions

  1. Peel squash, cut in half and remove seeds. Cut the squash into 1/2 inch cubes.
  2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat (300 degrees in an electric skillet). Add onions and cook, stirring for about 3 minutes. Add the squash, salt and chili powder.
  3. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes. Stir in chilies and cook about 3 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle with cheese and cover until cheese melts, about 2 minutes.
  5. Serve hot. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Prepare fresh chilies by roasting 1 pound fresh green poblano chilies (about 4 whole peppers) either by placing them over a stovetop gas flame or by roasting under an oven broiler. Turn them frequently until all sides are charred black, about 7-10 minutes. Allow peppers to cool, about 15 minutes. Remove the stems and seeds and chop.
  • Like more spicy flavor? Use more or hotter chilies.
  • Use as a filling for tacos, burritos or wraps!
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/butternut-squa...

Cheesy Potato Soup

Cheesy Potato Soup

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Makes: 6 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
1⁄4 cup celery, chopped
1 teaspoon oil
2 cups potatoes, peels and diced bite size
2 cups chicken broth
1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
3 Tablespoons cornstarch
1 1⁄2 cups nonfat or 1% milk, divided
1 cup (4 ounces) reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
1 Tablespoon bacon bits or 1 slice bacon, cooked and crumbled

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, sauté onions and celery in oil until onions are clear.
  2. Add the potatoes, broth, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 to 25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
  3. In a small bowl, stir together cornstarch and ¼ cup of milk until smooth. Add remaining milk. Stir into the potato mixture.
  4. Cook and stir until thickened and heated through, about 5 minutes. Do not boil.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in cheese until melted. Top with bacon bits. Serve warm.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/cheesy-potato-...

Chicken, Broccoli & Cheese Skillet Meal

Chicken, Broccoli & Cheese Skillet Meal

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 6 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

2 whole skinless, boneless chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds) cut in 1" cubes
2 teaspoons oil
1 1⁄2 cups or more chopped broccoli, fresh or frozen
1 can (14.5 ounces) low sodium chicken broth (see Notes)
1 can (10.5 ounces) low sodium condensed cream of chicken soup
1 teaspoon pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups small shell pasta, uncooked
1 cup (4 ounces) cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions

  1. Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat (350 degrees in an electric skillet). Add chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add broccoli, broth, soup, pepper, garlic and pasta. Bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to lowest setting, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
  4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Check near the end of cooking and add a small amount of water, if needed.
  6. Add cheese during last two minutes.
  7. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Broth can be canned or made using bouillon. For each cup of broth use 1 cup very hot water and 1 teaspoon or 1 cube bouillon.
  • Try whole wheat pasta when available
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/chicken-brocco...

Garden Vegetable Cakes

Garden Vegetable Cakes

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Makes: 8 cakes
Serving Size 2 cakes

Ingredients

1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1⁄3 cup all purpose flour
1⁄2 teaspoon baking powder
1⁄4 teaspoon dill weed
1⁄4 teaspoon each salt and pepper
4 eggs (or 1 cup egg substitute)
2 Tablespoons minced green onion with tops
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 clove garlic or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 1⁄2 cups shredded vegetables (unpeeled zucchini (drained and pressed), potato, carrots, bell pepper, celery, sweet potato or yam)

Directions

  1. In medium bowl, stir together cheese, flour, baking powder, dill weed, salt and pepper.
  2. Beat in eggs, green onions, lemon juice and garlic until well blended. Stir all shredded vegetables into the batter.
  3. Heat skillet or griddle over medium-high heat (350 degrees in an electric skillet). Lightly spray or oil with cooking spray. For each vegetable cake, pour 1/3 cup batter onto hot skillet or griddle. Cook on both sides until golden brown. Serve warm.
  4. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Top with low-fat sour cream and tomato slices.
  • Precook “harder” vegetables like carrots and potatoes, if desired.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/garden-vegetab...

Mexican Vegetable and Beef Skillet Meal

Mexican Vegetable and Beef Skillet Meal

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Makes: 8 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1⁄2 pound lean ground beef (15% fat)
3⁄4 cup onion, chopped (3/4 medium onion)
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained (about 2 medium fresh tomatoes)
1 1⁄2 cups vegetables fresh, frozen, or canned and drained (try one or more-zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, corn, cauliflower)
2 cups water
1 1⁄2 teaspoons chili powder
1 Tablespoon oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 cup (2 ounces) shredded cheese

Directions

  1. Cook beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350 degrees in an electric skillet) until no longer pink. Drain fat.
  2. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Add rice, tomatoes, vegetables, water, and spices. Stir and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat to medium low (250 degrees in an electric skillet). Cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked. Add more water if needed.
  5. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with cheese and cover for 1 to 2 minutes to allow cheese to melt. Serve warm.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Try brown rice and simmer for 20 more minutes
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/mexican-vegeta...

One Pan Spaghetti

One Pan Spaghetti

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 10 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1⁄2 pound lean ground beef (15% fat)
1 medium onion, chopped
3 1⁄2 cups water
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1⁄2 teaspoon sugar
1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 garlic cloves
1⁄2 teaspoon rosemary
1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
2 cups (12 ounces) broken spaghetti
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded parmesan cheese

Directions

  1. Brown meat and onions in a large skillet over medium-high heat (300 degrees in an electric skillet). Drain fat.
  2. Stir in water, tomato sauce, and spices. Bring to a boil.
  3. Add spaghetti, cover pan, and simmer 10-15 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
  4. When spaghetti is tender, top with grated cheese.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Try ground turkey or small cooked shrimp for the meat.
  • Try whole-wheat pasta to increase fiber.
  • Use cheddar cheese in place of parmesan
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/one-pan-spaghe...

One-Pan Chicken Alfredo

One-Pan Chicken Alfredo

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Makes: 7 cups
Serving Size 1 cup

Ingredients

1 large chicken breast, cubed (about one cup)
2 Tablespoons oil
2 Tablespoons flour
1 3⁄4 cups chicken broth
1 3⁄4 cups nonfat or 1% milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1⁄2 teaspoon onion powder
1⁄2 teaspoon dried basil
3 cups dry penne pasta
2 cups broccoli, chopped (fresh or frozen)
1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Directions

  1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown chicken in oil.
  2. Add flour, broth, milk, spices and pasta to skillet and stir well.
  3. Bring to a boil; cover; reduce heat; simmer until pasta is almost tender, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add broccoli, cover, and cook until broccoli is tender.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in cheese.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
Source: http://foodhero.org/recipes/one-pan-chicke...