(Culinary.net) Waking up, no matter how late, can be such a drag. You’re moving slow and cuddled up warm under the blankets. However, your stomach is growling which means eventually you are going to have to arise.

When you do stumble out of bed, it’s time to get the day started with a delicious casserole on your plate. It’s a warm, freshly baked Overnight Apple Cinnamon Fresh Toast Casserole.

Prepared the day before and chilled overnight, this casserole is ready to throw in the oven once you’re up. It’s gooey on the inside and baked to a perfect crisp on the outside, plus it’s filled with mouthwatering apples and ground cinnamon, not to mention the sweet glaze drizzled on top at the end.

It’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion and the little ones will enjoy the sweet crunch, as well.

To start, add cubed French bread to a glass baking dish. Add apple pie filling on top of the bread and smooth it out over the entire dish. Then add more cubed French bread on top.

In a mixing bowl, whisk nine eggs, half-and-half and cinnamon. Pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the baking dish.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and chill overnight.

Remove the foil and bake for about an hour. Let cool.

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to form a sweet glaze. Drizzle the glaze over your warm casserole and enjoy.

Whether you are waking up on an early Monday morning or lounging around in your pajamas for an hour (or two) over the weekend, this breakfast casserole is worth the wait.

Find more breakfast and brunch recipes at Culinary.net.

If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Overnight Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

Servings: 12

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1          package (20 ounces) French bread, cubed, divided
• 1          can (20 ounces) apple pie filling
• 9          eggs
• 1          cup half-and-half
• 2          teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1          cup powdered sugar, plus additional (optional)
• 2          tablespoons milk, plus additional (optional)

1. Spray 8-by-8-inch glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In baking dish, add 10 ounces cubed French bread in bottom of dish. Pour apple filling over bread. Top with remaining cubed French bread. Set aside.
3. In medium bowl, whisk eggs, half-and-half and cinnamon. Pour evenly over bread.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and chill overnight.
5. Heat oven to 325 F.
6. Remove foil and bake 50-60 minutes.
7. Let cool 10-15 minutes.
8. In small bowl, whisk powdered sugar and milk. Add additional, if needed, until pourable glaze is reached. Drizzle over casserole before serving.

(Family Features) Busy mornings, afternoons and evenings are the norm for many families with days full of work, school, extracurricular activities, social commitments and more. Finding time to pause and share a meal is often a priority that may remain difficult to achieve.

With easy family-friendly recipes that call for Envy apples – named America’s No. 1 apple for taste, crispness, aroma and appearance, according to an independent sensory test by Forward Agency – you can bring your loved ones together for shared meals.

Crisp Apple Tacos put a fresh and sweet spin on a dinnertime classic by making tacos with pork medallions, homemade slaw and apple wedges. With plenty of easy prep work to be done, they’re a convenient way to call everyone to the kitchen; even little ones can help by mixing the dressing, apple sticks and cabbage for the tasty slaw.

For a quick and easy dinner option on busy summer nights, fire up the grill and cook Grilled Apple Portobello Burgers. Distinctly sweet apple rounds are paired with savory, umami-rich portobello mushrooms for a flavor-packed, meatless take on traditional burgers.

Easily recognized by their large, sharable size, Envy apples boast bright red skin that sometimes features a golden blush. They are ideal for snacking, with their satisfying crunch and balanced sweetness, and can also be served as part of any meal of the day. For example, Apple Avocado Toast provides a simple way to fuel up on weekday mornings or can be enjoyed as part of a weekend brunch with the family.

Find these delicious apples at a grocer near you by visiting EnvyApple.com.

Apple Avocado Toast

• 2          eggs
• water
• 4          slices sourdough bread
• 1          ripe avocado, sliced
• 1          Envy apple
• 1          teaspoon lime juice
• 1/4       cup shaved Parmesan cheese
• 2          teaspoons chia seeds
• 1          tablespoon minced chives
• edible flowers, for garnish

1. In pot, cover eggs with 1 inch cold water. Boil 6-7 minutes then place in cool water bath.
2. Peel eggs, halve lengthwise and set aside.
3. Toast sourdough bread then mash avocado across bread with fork.
4. Cut apple into thin slices and place on top of avocado along with egg halves. Top with lime juice, Parmesan cheese, chia seeds and chives.
5. Garnish with edible flowers.

Grilled Apple Portobello Burgers

• 2          Envy apples
• 4          portobello mushrooms
• 1/2       cup olive oil, divided
• 2          tablespoons lemon juice
• 4          garlic cloves, minced
• 2          teaspoons oregano
• 2          teaspoons salt
• 1          cup herbed goat cheese
• 4          brioche buns
• 4          large butter lettuce leaves
• 4          tablespoons mayonnaise

1. Heat grill to high heat.
2. Slice apple horizontally into thick round wedges and remove seeds using fork.
3. Remove portobello stems.
4. In small bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano and salt. Using basting brush, coat mushrooms on both sides with olive oil mixture.
5. Grill mushrooms stem sides down 2 minutes then flip. Add goat cheese and grill 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted.
6. Coat apple rounds with remaining olive oil and grill 1-2 minutes per side to lightly char.
7. Serve mushrooms with apple rounds on brioche buns with lettuce and mayonnaise.

Crisp Apple Tacos

• 1/2       pound pork tenderloin
• 3          tablespoons olive oil
• 1          teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
• 1          teaspoon pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided
• 2          Envy apples, divided
• 3          sprigs rosemary
• 1/2       cup shredded carrots
• 1/2       cup shredded red cabbage
• 1          cup shredded green cabbage
• 4          tablespoons honey
• 1          cup mayonnaise
• 1          tablespoon mustard
• 1          tablespoon white vinegar
• 12        soft taco shells
• 2          tablespoons sour cream
• 1          lime, cut into wedges

1. Cut pork crosswise into 1-inch medallions.
2. Coat pork medallions with olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper then add to saucepan over medium heat.
3. Slice half of one apple into thick wedges and add to saucepan. Slice remaining half into thin wedges and set aside.
4. Add rosemary to saucepan and heat 2-3 minutes. Flip pork and heat 2-3 minutes until pork is slightly golden and cooked through.
5. Let pork rest 3 minutes then slice into strips.
6. Thinly slice half of remaining apple into thin sticks around same size of shredded cabbage. Reserve remaining half.
7. In serving bowl, toss apple sticks, carrots, red cabbage and green cabbage.
8. In bowl, mix honey, mayonnaise, mustard and vinegar into dressing. Add additional salt and pepper, to taste.
9. Mix dressing and cabbage; refrigerate at least 1 hour prior to serving.
10. Cut remaining apple half into thin wedges.
11. Top taco shells with pork, slaw, sour cream and squeeze of lime juice. Top with apple wedges.

Source: Envy Apples

(Culinary.net) It’s almost impossible to beat the combination of sweet fruit and decadent desserts. This delicious recipe for Apple Cake highlights the crisp fruit but also the cinnamon sugar-flavored pastry. It’s luscious but doesn’t overdo it on the sweet meter with just the right mix of flavors.

The cake is baked with the apples inside as the middle layer, which creates a  moist, finished product. The apples are gooey, baked in a cinnamon sugar coating, making them a sweet and light complement to the perfectly baked cake.

Start by mixing the apples with cinnamon and, of course, sugar. Set the mixture aside. Now it’s time for cake. First, mix all the dry ingredients together then mix in the wet ingredients.

The secret to this cake is creating layers that will hold up. Pour half of the batter into a round springform pan first then add apple mixture and top it all with the rest of the cake batter.

Finally, for a little extra sweetness, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar over the top of the cake before baking.

Once baked, this cake can be drizzled with icing (if you’d like) to make it an even more delightful treat to satisfy any sweet tooth.

This cake is perfect for any get-together, families looking for an after-dinner indulgence or anyone who just loves fruity desserts. It’s delectable enough for fancy occasions, but also simple enough to make at home for just a couple.

With fluffy cake layers and a soft apple center, this cake does it all. Not to mention the drip of icing at the end that all but guarantees everyone will be asking for seconds.

Find more recipes and sweet desserts at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Apple Cake

Servings: 8-16

• 3          cups Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored and diced
• 3          teaspoons cinnamon
• 6          tablespoons, plus 2 cups, sugar, divided
• 3          cups flour
• 3          teaspoons baking powder
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 1          cup oil
• 4          eggs, beaten
• 1/4       cup orange juice
• 1          teaspoon vanilla
• icing (optional)

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. In medium bowl, mix apples, cinnamon and 5 tablespoons sugar until combined. Set aside.
3. In large bowl, mix flour, 2 cups sugar, baking powder and salt until combined. Form well in middle of mixture. Add oil, eggs, orange juice and vanilla; mix until blended.
4. In springform pan, pour half of batter. Add apple mixture. Pour remaining batter over apple mixture. Sprinkle remaining sugar over batter.
5. Bake 40-50 minutes, or until top is golden brown and tester comes out clean and dry.
6. Drizzle with icing, if desired.

Apple orchards, apple picking and apple desserts all scream fall. Glowing with bright yellows and reds, apples are juicy and more than ready to be used in your favorite fall recipes. If you’re looking for something sweet and full of texture that can turn your taste buds upside down, look no further.

This scrumptious Spiced Apple Crumble is not only a family favorite but a holiday must-have. It’s the perfect dish to pack up and deliver to your next gathering of loved ones. Kids and adults love the deliciously sweet apple chunks filling the bottom of the pan along with the crumble topping. Top this killer sweet treat with vanilla ice cream for a sensational, melty, oozing-with-goodness dessert no one can forget.

It’s one of those recipes your friends will call you about after the gathering wondering “where did you get that recipe?” The best part: It’s perfect for crowds of any size. The bite-size chunks of apple and oats are appetizing for any sweet tooth.

The fall season leading up to the holidays is one of the times of year family and friends traditionally come together most. Nearly everyone loves a satisfying apple, especially when it is baked to perfection, covered with a crumble and topped with creamy, cool vanilla ice cream. Not to mention the splash of lemon added to this mixture brings out a unique tart twist.

Make your next fall festivity or holiday gathering just a little sweeter for all. Spice things up then cool things down. This dessert does it all in just one bite.

Find more recipes for the fall season and holiday fun at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Spiced Apple Crumble

Servings: 6-8

Filling:

• 6          medium Honeycrisp apples, peeled and cubed
• 1          tablespoon white flour
• 1/2       cup white sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4       teaspoon ground cloves
• 2          lemons, juice only

Topping:

• 1          cup quick oats
• 1          cup white flour
• 1/2       cup light brown sugar
• 1/2       cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon baking powder
• 1          teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1/2       cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/8       teaspoon salt

• vanilla ice cream (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. To make filling: In medium bowl, add apples, flour, sugar, cinnamon, cloves and lemon juice. Toss to evenly coat. Spread evenly in 8-by-8-inch baking dish.
3. To make topping: In medium bowl, add oats, flour, brown sugars, baking powder, cinnamon, melted butter and salt. Fork mixture to create crumbles. Pour crumble topping over apple mixture.
4. Bake 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
5. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

(Family Features) Snacks are a way of life for people of all ages, but especially children, who consume about 25% of their daily calories from snacks, according to research published in the “Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior.” Providing nutritionally balanced snacks for your children at home can make for a happy and healthy day.

Planning snacks that are as delicious as they are healthy is a winning solution, and snacks are a simple way to add more nutrition to your child’s diet.

For example, low-fat and fat-free dairy foods are essential to children’s growth and overall wellness. They provide calcium and vitamin D, two nutrients kids don’t get enough of, according to the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The guidelines recommend 2-3 servings of low-fat and fat-free dairy foods every day, depending on the child’s age.

Giving kids a role in the preparation can give them added incentive to enjoy healthy treats, and these recipes are all easy enough that kids can make them on their own (or with minimal assistance). Giving your kids the ability to play a role in the kitchen and create is a gift that can last a lifetime. The culinary skills they develop early in life can give them the confidence and know-how to cook nutritious meals for themselves as teens and adults.

Dairy: Did You Know?

Dairy foods can add taste and versatility to your plate, but they also deliver a unique package of essential nutrients important for good health.

• Milk has a unique combination of nine essential nutrients: protein; calcium; potassium; phosphorus; vitamins A, D and B12; riboflavin and niacin. Each of these nutrients is a key ingredient of milk and they all work together to help keep bodies healthy.

• Milk, cheese and yogurt are good sources of high-quality protein, which is essential for growth and maintenance of muscle and other proteins within the body.

• Enjoying dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt as part of a healthy diet is associated with many health bonuses, including reduced risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Get more ideas to get kids cooking and snacking smart at milkmeansmore.org.

Red, White and Blue Greek Yogurt Bark

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 12

• 3          cups plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/3       cup honey, plus additional for drizzling (optional)
• 1          teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2       cup strawberries, sliced into rounds
• 1/2       cup blueberries
• 1/2       cup raspberries, halved

1. In medium mixing bowl combine Greek yogurt, 1/3 cup honey and vanilla.
2. On parchment paper-lined baking sheet, spread Greek yogurt mixture to 1/4-inch thickness. Press strawberries, blueberries and raspberries into yogurt. Freeze at least 3 hours. Break into pieces upon removing from freezer.

Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4

• 3/4       cup vanilla Greek yogurt
• 1/4       cup peanut butter
• 1          dash cinnamon
• apples, graham crackers or other dipper of choice

1. In bowl, six Greek yogurt, peanut butter and cinnamon until smooth.
2. Serve with apples, graham crackers or another dipper of choice.

Good Morning Yogurt Parfait

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1/2       cup sliced or diced fruit, any variety
• 6          ounces low-fat or fat-free vanilla yogurt
• 1/4       cup granola or other cereal (optional)

1. In small bowl or cup, layer fruit and yogurt, starting with fruit on bottom. Top with cereal or granola, if desired.
2. Note: This recipe can be made using low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese sweetened with honey and cinnamon.

Frozen Banana Pops

Prep time: 2 hours
Servings: 8

• 4          large bananas, peeled
• 8          wooden ice pop sticks
• 2          cups vanilla non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/2       cup creamy natural peanut butter

1. Cut each banana in half and carefully insert wooden ice pop stick in bottom of each , about one-third into banana. Place bananas on large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze bananas until partially frozen, about 30 minutes.
2. Carefully dip each banana in tall pint glass of vanilla yogurt to coat, leaving 1/2-inch at bottom of banana uncoated. Return yogurt-coated bananas to parchment paper-lined baking sheet and freeze until completely firm, about 1 hour.
3. Microwave peanut butter until smooth and creamy, about 30-45 seconds. Drizzle peanut butter evenly over bananas then place on baking sheet to freeze until peanut butter is firm, about 30 minutes.
4. Serve immediately or wrap each banana in plastic wrap and store in freezer up to 3 months.

Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan

(Family Features) The early morning chaos and activity-packed evenings of the back-to-school season can make finding time to connect challenging. Throughout the day, there can be small windows of time that your family can make the most of – even if only for a few moments that matter.

“As a busy mom, I know how hard it can be to find time to slow down with the kids,” said Dr. Tanya Altmann, pediatrician and parenting expert. “After-school snack time is my secret weapon. It’s a time we can all pause for a few minutes before running out the door to soccer or starting homework. As a doctor, I’ll take any extra opportunity to provide the nutrients my kids need. That’s why I focus on nutrient-rich snacks, which always include milk in our house.”

Most Americans, including kids, fall short on the recommended three daily servings of real milk and milk products for kids ages 9 and up, according to the USDA Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. Adding real dairy milk to afternoon snack time is an easy way to get kids nutrients they need to grow up strong, which is one less thing for parents to worry about.

“The great thing about milk is that kids already love it, so it’s an easy way to get protein and other essential nutrients they need to fuel their after-school activities and meals,” pediatrician Dr. Ilan Shapiro said. “It’s not a battle to get them to drink it like so many foods can be.”

You can make the most of snack time with simple, fun recipe ideas like Harvest Fruit and Oat Energy Bites, which are a quick way to fuel up. Pairing these with an 8-ounce glass of real milk provides protein and essential nutrients kids need to power through after-school homework or activities.

Snacking recipes are not only easy to make, but also easy to plan. For more tasty on-the-go recipe ideas to try this back-to-school season, and to shop for ingredients, visit milklife.com.

Harvest Fruit and Oat Energy Bites

Recipe courtesy of Emily Caruso of Jelly Toast on behalf of Milk. Love What’s Real
Servings: 10, 2 bites per serving

• 1/2       cup milk
• 1 1/2    cups rolled oats, divided
• 2          tablespoons almond nut butter
• 2/3       cup dried apple rings, chopped (soft variety)
• 1/2       teaspoon apple pie spice
• 1          pinch salt
• 1/4       cup dried cranberries or dried tart cherries
• 2          tablespoons chopped pecans or almonds
• 1          glass milk (8 ounces each) per serving

1. In bowl of food processor or high-speed blender, combine milk, 1 cup rolled oats, nut butter, dried apple rings, apple pie spice and salt. Pulse until mixture becomes fairly smooth and holds together when rolled. Transfer mixture to medium size bowl.
2. Stir in remaining oats, dried cranberries and chopped nuts. Roll mixture into tablespoon-sized balls and place on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Chill 1 hour, or until firm. Keep bites covered and refrigerated up to 3 days.
3. Pair each serving with 8-ounce glass milk.

Nutritional information per serving: 190 calories; 3.5 g fat; 0 g saturated fat; 5 mg cholesterol; 12 g protein; 28 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 150 mg sodium; 334 mg calcium. Nutrition figures based on using fat-free milk and include 8-ounce glass fat-free milk.

Photo courtesy of Emily Caruso of Jelly Toast on behalf of Milk. Love What’s Real

Source: MilkPEP

(Family Features) Backyard barbecues and family picnics are plentiful during the summer months, so chances are good you’ll host (or attend) at least one event this season. While you’ll likely feast on a bevy of hamburgers, hot dogs and summer salads, a menu filled with fresh, delicious sides makes for a meal worth celebrating.

There’s certainly more than one way to create a menu for a casual backyard picnic, so it’s easy to plan dishes that everyone can enjoy. When organizing your menu, be sure to consider your guests and prepare a selection of side dishes that are both age-appropriate and satisfy a wide range of cravings. Here are some creative ways to put a twist on classic side dishes to make your meal memorable:

Pasta medley. When you’re serving a group with kids, a simple pasta salad is a must-have side that even picky eaters will enjoy. Simply prepare your favorite noodles (fun shapes like spirals or bowties if you’re thinking kid-friendly) then add an array of ingredients like cubed cheese, olives, cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets with some extra-virgin olive oil. For a more grown-up flavor, combine feta cheese and bits of fresh basil with a drizzle of Bolthouse Farms Classic Balsamic Vinaigrette dressing for an extra kick of flavor.

Naturally sweet treats. Many traditional sweet dishes are simply impractical for a hot summer day. As an alternative, something lighter can help satisfy a sweet tooth without the bulk of a heavy cake or pie. Try a mixed berry bowl with all your favorite seasonal fruits like fresh strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries. It’s a cheerful presentation and an option all ages can enjoy. Add a few sprigs of mint for garnish for a little festive fun.

Crisp coleslaw salad. A refreshing salad is almost always a crowd-pleaser. Instead of a traditional tossed garden salad, try adding some crunch with a zesty coleslaw salad. This recipe uses all chopped vegetables, allowing you to help reduce food waste by choosing veggies that are not the most beautiful on the shelf, but still taste delicious. Try using an option like Bolthouse Farms Coleslaw dressing to make these veggies and coleslaw even more delicious by giving you the classic, tangy, creamy and sweet coleslaw taste you love with less fat and fewer calories than other refrigerated brands. Just pour, mix in with cabbage and enjoy. Another tip: balance your crunchy veggies with some sweetness, like bits of apple, pear, persimmon or nectarine, for a truly flavorful salad.

Look in the refrigerated area of the produce section to pick up any of the Bolthouse Farms dressing varieties or visit Bolthouse.com to learn more.

“Ugly” Summer Coleslaw Salad

Recipe courtesy of Two Purple Figs

• 1/2       head white cabbage (about 4 cups)
• 2          scallions
• 1          carrot
• 1          apple
• 1          pear
• 1/2       bottle Bolthouse Farms® Coleslaw dressing
• 1          cup pomegranate arils (optional)

1. Using shredder disc in food processor, shred cabbage, scallions, carrot, apple and pear. Add dressing and pulse until smooth.
2. Sprinkle with pomegranate arils, if desired, and serve.

Content courtesy of Bolthouse Farms®.

Source: Bolthouse Farms

(Family Features) There’s no time like a hot summer picnic to let your patriotic spirit show. These all-American snacks featuring a classic favorite fruit – watermelon – are the perfect solution for nearly any summertime celebration.

Watermelon is a patriotic picnic staple for countless reasons, not the least of which is that it’s a beloved treat that many people associate with memories from childhood. However, nostalgia isn’t the only reason adults are just as likely to gravitate toward watermelon at a summer event. Its sweet, cool and refreshing flavor also makes it a favorite for all ages.

From a practical standpoint, watermelon is also quite portable, versatile and easy to serve, and with a composition of 92% water, it’s a simple way to sneak in some extra hydration on a hot day. Another benefit is its value; watermelon is one of the best values in the produce section among fruit, and just one watermelon can feed up to three dozen people.

Serving watermelon at a party can be as simple as slicing wedges, or you can prepare a dish such as:

• A fruit basket, with the rind serving as a colorful bowl to hold the watermelon and other fresh fruits.
• A charcuterie board with a selection of fruit, cheese and protein for simple snacking.
• Creamy parfaits, perfect for a summery brunch or alternative to more traditional desserts.
• A creatively colorful and patriotic “cake” that makes for a tasty centerpiece on the dessert table.

Find more ideas for incorporating watermelon into your summer festivities at watermelon.org.

Easy Summer Thirst Quencher

A simple fruit-infused water can give your summer event an instant upgrade in no time at all. Add extra dimension and complexity to the flavor by adding some of your favorite herbs like basil and mint.

Watermelon-Infused Water

• 2          cups watermelon balls or cubes
• 1          cup other fruit, such as berries
• herbs, such as basil or mint

1. Place watermelon, fruit and herbs in pitcher and cover with water. For best flavor, allow to chill in refrigerator at least 30 minutes before serving.

Red, White and Blue Watermelon Parfait

• 1          cup blueberries
• 1          container (6 ounces) Greek yogurt (vanilla, lemon or coconut)
• 1          cup watermelon, plus three pieces diced watermelon
• whipped cream, for serving

1. In pint canning jar, layer blueberries, yogurt and 1 cup watermelon. Top with whipped cream and garnish with three diced watermelon pieces.

Note: To make ahead or make thicker, drain Greek yogurt on paper towels to absorb some liquid.

Patriotic Fruit Salad

• 1          watermelon
• honeydew
• blueberries

1. Slice 1/4 inch off bottom of watermelon, lengthwise, to create stable base.
2. Use pencil to draw zig-zag lines for basket opening. Using paring knife, make cuts through rind.
3. Carefully remove top section, pull out large chunks of flesh and cut them into 3-by-3-inch squares.
4. Trim 3/4-inch thick slices off squares to use for cutting out stars with 1 1/2-3-inch, star-shaped cookie cutters.
5. Use ice cream scoop to remove flesh from inside basket and cut scoops into quarters for fruit salad. Place in bottom of basket. Add honeydew and blueberries; stir to combine.
6. Cut out white stripes from honeydew.
7. Garnish top of fruit salad with watermelon stars, honeydew stripes and blueberries.

Patriotic Charcuterie Board

• 1/2       medium seedless watermelon, cut into wedges
• 1/2       cup fresh raspberries
• 1 1/2    cups fresh blueberries
• 10        strawberries (dipped in white chocolate, if desired)
• 5          ounces fresh goat cheese
• 1/2       cup toasted, salted cashews
• 2          ounces cured meats like prosciutto, pancetta, coppa, salami, soppressata, sausage or pepperoni
• 1          Honeycrisp apple, cored and sliced
• lemon juice
• fresh basil leaves

1. On large board or platter, arrange watermelon, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, cheese, cashews, meat and apples. Drizzle fruit with lemon juice. Garnish with basil leaves before serving.

Flag Kebab Cake

• 1          pint fresh, washed blackberries
• 12        wooden skewers
• 1          seedless watermelon, flesh cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1          angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes (white part only)
• dips, such as yogurt, chocolate, caramel or marshmallow (optional)

1. Thread five blackberries on each of five skewers, followed by alternating watermelon and cake cubes.
2. On remaining skewers, alternate watermelon and cake so first and last cubes are watermelon. Place skewers on platter; fruit and cake will create stars and stripes when lined properly.
3. Serve with dips, if desired.

Source:

National Watermelon Promotion Board

(Family Features) Make it easy to stick to your resolutions by starting every morning with a breakfast with more protein. Did you know the average breakfast bowl or plate contains on average only 13 grams of protein, yet some nutrition experts recommend getting 20-30 grams at each meal?

Spreading out your protein throughout the day (rather than in one large amount) can help optimize how your body uses it. That means getting enough protein at breakfast! A breakfast with enough protein can help you feel fuller longer so you’re more likely to stick to your healthy eating routine. One easy way to get eight grams of high-quality protein is to add milk to your breakfast routine – whether in a cup, bowl and in your favorite recipe, an 8-ounce glass of milk contains 8 grams of high-quality protein!

Here are eight delicious breakfast ideas with protein to kick-start your new year.

Savory Oatmeal with Sunny Side Up Egg + Bacon

Make your oatmeal with milk instead of water to add milk’s high-quality protein to your morning meal. This twist also adds the classic combo of bacon and eggs to shake up your morning routine – serving up a total of 25 grams of protein.

Grab-and-Go Mini Breakfast Casseroles with Cheddar and Spinach

Need a quick breakfast for busy mornings? These grab-and-go mini casseroles have a few simple ingredients, like lowfat milk, spinach and cheddar cheese – with a ton of palate payoff. Pair two mini casseroles with a cup of milk for 24 grams of protein.

Apple-Cinnamon Whole-Grain Pancake Muffins

Try this yummy twist on your morning go-to pancakes filled with delicious apple slices and cinnamon and made with 100% whole-grain pancake batter. Pair with an 8-ounce glass of milk to add an extra 8 grams of protein to the meal, for a total of 13 grams.

Spinach Mushroom Breakfast Crepes 

These savory crepes made with milk and filled with veggies and Swiss cheese for a delicious way to kick-start your day with 23 grams of protein.

Skillet Eggs and Polenta 

Breakfast takes a flavorful twist in this recipe that uses traditional Italian flavors of polenta and marinara to create a delicious dish. Pair with a glass of milk for 25 grams of protein.

Creamy Green Goddess Smoothie 

Lowfat milk and avocados make this smoothie extra creamy for 7 grams of protein per serving, and it’s packed with spinach, pineapple and bananas so it’s a choice you can feel good about.

Nutty Blueberry Quinoa Oatmeal 

Spice up your morning meal by adding quinoa and blueberries. Pair this dish with a glass of milk for 21 grams of protein power to start your day!  

Chicken Sausage Scramble

Sweet potatoes, lowfat milk and chicken sausage combine in this tasty egg scramble to give you a protein boost to start your morning right. Add a cup of milk for 22 grams of protein.

For more recipes, visit MilkLife.com or check out Pinterest.

Source: Milk Life

(Family Features) Building out a full menu to please your brunch guests with simple, tasty recipes can help create a fun, flavorful atmosphere when it’s time for a morning bite.

By making a variety of dishes to accommodate an array of personal tastes, you can give friends and family the flavors they desire. With choices like Apple Strudel Pancakes and Mini Hash Brown Casseroles, you can fulfill a multitude of food groups from grains and fruits to dairy and meat. Allow the adults at your gathering to top off the meal with a spicy take on this Watermelon Bloody Mary, featuring simple preparation and a handful of garnish options.

Find more brunch recipes at Culinary.net.

Add Apples to Your Brunch Buffet

As part of a balanced brunch, these Apple Strudel Pancakes feature whole grains rich in fiber, minerals and vitamins to provide energy for you and your guests. With a rich, nutty flavor, buckwheat flour complements the sweet taste of apples and maple syrup for a twist on traditional pancakes. Find more nutritious recipes at aicr.org.

Apple Strudel Pancakes

Reprinted with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research

Servings: 8

Apple Strudel Mixture:

• 1          cup water
• 1/4       cup raisins
• 1          tablespoon butter
• 2          tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/3       cup thoroughly chopped walnuts
• 1          large apple, peeled, cored and chopped

Batter:

• 1          cup buckwheat flour
• 1          cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• 2          tablespoons sugar
• 1          teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1          teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 2          eggs
• 2          cups 1 percent buttermilk
• 1/4       cup safflower oil
• 1/2       teaspoon vanilla extract
• nonstick cooking spray
• maple syrup

1. To make apple strudel mixture: Boil water; add raisins. Remove from heat and let steep until raisins are plump and reconstituted, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In shallow pan over medium heat, add butter. Once butter melts and is bubbling, stir in brown sugar and cinnamon. Cook about 3 minutes until sugar starts to dissolve. Add walnuts, apples and raisins. Cook apples until just tender when pierced with fork, about 4 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.
3. To make batter: In large bowl, mix flours, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. In separate bowl, beat eggs lightly and mix with buttermilk, oil and vanilla extract.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry, mixing as little as possible. Add apple strudel mixture and fold all ingredients together. Set aside.
5. Heat nonstick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease pan lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Once pan is hot, ladle about 1/4 cup batter per pancake taking care not to overcrowd pan. After 2-3 minutes, flip pancakes once.
6. Serve pancakes warm with syrup.

A Small Brunch Bite

A full brunch menu calls for small bites on the side to complement the multitude of flavors brought on by a variety of brunch dishes.

For a clever option that’s quick to make, these Mini Hash Brown Casseroles provide a morsel bursting with flavor to pair with just about any morning meal. Made with refrigerated Simply Potatoes Shredded Hash Browns, which are pre-shredded for a faster fridge to fork kitchen experience, you can make a batch of the tasty cups in less than an hour.

Find more brunch solutions and recipes at simplypotatoes.com.

Mini Hash Brown Casseroles

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24

• 1          package refrigerated Simply Potatoes Shredded Hash Browns
• 1          pound Bob Evans Farms Original Sausage Roll
• 4          large eggs
• 1/2       cup milk
• 3          tablespoons butter, melted
• 1          cup ham, cubed
• 1          cup red pepper, diced
• 1/2       teaspoon black pepper
• 1          cup shredded cheddar cheese

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. Remove hash browns from refrigerator and let rest.
3. In skillet, cook sausage according to package directions.
4. Lightly grease two 12-cup muffin tins. In bowl, whisk eggs and milk. Add hash browns, butter, ham, red pepper, black pepper and cheese; mix.
5. Fill muffin tins 2/3 full. Bake 27-30 minutes. Serve warm.

Sipping on Sweet and Spicy

Take your brunch the extra mile with a twist on the traditional mid-morning beverage. By adding jalapeno and horseradish to this Watermelon Bloody Mary, you’ll have a spicy, tasty version of a traditional brunch drink ready for your guests.

With watermelon balancing out the jalapeno, it’s an ideal balance of spicy and sweet with just the right amount of kick. Find more brunch recipes at watermelon.org.

Watermelon Bloody Mary

Recipe courtesy of the National Watermelon Promotion Board

Yield: 4 cocktails

• 2          cups seedless watermelon, cubed
• 1          medium jalapeno pepper, stem removed, chopped
• 2          limes, juice only
• 6          ounces low-sodium tomato juice
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 1/2       teaspoon black pepper
• 1          teaspoon fish sauce
• 1          teaspoon horseradish
• hot sauce, to taste
• 1/3       cup vodka
• lime wedges
• chili lime salt
• ice
• 4          bamboo skewers (6 inches long)
• watermelon wedges (optional)
• prosciutto (optional)
• cucumber slices (optional)
• jalapeno slices (optional)
• green olives (optional)

1. In blender, blend watermelon cubes and jalapeno pepper until completely smooth. Pour mixture through fine sieve set over pitcher.
2. Add lime juice, salt, pepper, fish sauce, horseradish and hot sauce, to taste, to pitcher; stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add vodka and stir.
3. Line rims of four glasses with lime juice from lime wedges; dip in chili lime salt poured on plate. Carefully put ice in each glass and divide Watermelon Bloody Mary mixture evenly.
4. Add garnishes, as desired, by skewering watermelon wedges, prosciutto, cucumber, jalapeno and green olives. Place garnishes in glasses and serve.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Pancakes)

Source: American Institute for Cancer Research
Simply Potatoes
National Watermelon Promotion Board