(Family Features) School is back in session, and so are hectic weeknights with little time to cook dinner. Instead of reaching for ready-made meals or takeout, serve up tasty one-pot dinners made with wholesome ingredients like spaghetti squash and quinoa. These seven kid-friendly recipes bring everything together in a single baking dish or skillet, so there's less prep and clean up, and more time for reconnecting around the dinner table.

1. Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Lo Mein
   

   Load up on veggies with this weeknight version of an Asian takeout favorite. Carrots, bell pepper and shrimp are flavored with soy sauce, ginger and garlic. Try a microwave shortcut to cook the spaghetti squash and have it on the table in no time.

2. Fall Skillet Pot Pie
   

   Rotisserie or leftover chicken, refrigerated biscuits and an oven-proof skillet make this comfort food favorite a weeknight reality. Add sweet potatoes, peas and flavor with thyme, cinnamon and garlic powder.

3. Quinoa Taco Skillet
   

   McCormick Organics Taco Seasoning Mix adds kid-friendly flavor to this skillet dinner made with quinoa, ground turkey, fresh tomatoes and corn.

4. Creamy Tomato Italian Parmesan Chicken
   

   Tender chicken simmered in a creamy red sauce, fresh parmesan and freshly ground Italian herbs make for a perfect weeknight dish. Whether you serve with pasta, atop Italian bread or let the chicken be the star, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

5. Chicken Noodle Casserole
   

   Everyone's favorite soup gets a casserole treatment. Simply combine pasta, chicken, vegetables and gooey cheese with the flavors of pepper, garlic and Italian seasoning for a comforting weeknight meal, perfect for leftovers.

6. Chicken Fajita Soup
   

   Warm up with a one-pot wonder that gets a Tex-Mex twist from McCormick Organics Fajita Seasoning Mix. Let the family customize with toppings like avocado, cheese, sour cream and tortilla strips.

7. Chicken Chili with Apple and Sweet Potato
   

   Say goodbye to beans and whip up a new fall chili the whole family will love. Kitchen Basics Organic Chicken Stock gives the quick dish a rich, cooked-all-day flavor.

Find more tips and recipe inspiration for back-to-school season at McCormick.com and be sure to check out Pinterest and Facebook.

Source: McCormick Spice

(Family Features) When deciding which dishes to serve this year at holiday gatherings, consider going beyond traditional recipes and use beloved seasonal ingredients in new ways.

For example, while pecan pie is top of mind for many dessert-makers, it’s also a perfect time to make new dishes with an ingredient like pecans, also known as The Original Supernut. Naturally sweet and nutritious, the pecan lends itself to nearly endless holiday menu inspiration.

It hasn’t been an easy year for the pecan industry, but you can support American pecan growers and #PledgePecans – that’s a promise to add one more pecan-friendly recipe beyond the pie to your table this holiday.

To pledge, visit Americanpecan.com/PledgePecans and click on seasonal recipes or watch the Pecan-A-Thon, an entertainment variety show spotlighting the growers behind the Supernut and showcasing ways pecans can be enjoyed this holiday season.

Pecan-Crusted Prime Rib with Horseradish Cream Sauce

Horseradish Cream Sauce (optional):

• 1          cup low-fat sour cream
• 1/4       cup horseradish, grated
• 1          tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2       lemon, juice and zest only
• 2          tablespoons fresh chives, finely sliced
• kosher salt, to taste
• fresh black pepper, to taste

• 1          boneless prime rib roast (8-10 pounds)
• 1          tablespoon, plus 1/4 teaspoon, kosher salt
• 2          teaspoons fresh black pepper, plus additional for pecan topping
• 1          cup raw pecan pieces
• 3          tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3          tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/2       cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2          tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8          garlic cloves, divided
• 2          tablespoons Dijon mustard, divided

1. To make Horseradish Cream Sauce: In small bowl, combine sour cream, horseradish, mustard, lemon juice and zest, and fresh chives; add salt and pepper, to taste. Sauce can be prepared 1 day ahead of time and refrigerated.
2. Season prime rib with 1 tablespoon salt and pepper; let sit at room temperature 1 hour.
3. To make pecan topping: Heat oven to 325° F. In food processor, process pecans, rosemary, thyme, breadcrumbs, butter, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon mustard, remaining salt and pepper until combined. Set aside.
4. Cut small slits in fatty side of prime rib; stuff with remaining garlic. Rub remaining mustard over top of prime rib and apply pecan topping, making sure to press firm.
5. Transfer prime rib to roasting pan. Place rib roast in lower-third of oven, insert digital probe thermometer in middle and loosely cover top of prime rib with foil so pecans don’t burn. Cook 1 1/2 hours, remove foil and continue cooking until internal temperature reaches 120° F.
6. Allow prime rib to rest covered 30 minutes so juices can redistribute. Serve with Horseradish Cream Sauce, if desired.

Pecan Apple Stuffing

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1          pound mild Italian sausage
• 1          tablespoon olive oil or pecan oil
• 1          yellow onion, diced
• 3          celery stalks, chopped
• 3          garlic cloves, minced
• 12        ounces herb-seasoned cubed stuffing
• 2          cups tart apples, chopped
• 1 1/2    cups pecan halves
• 1          cup chicken broth, plus additional (optional)
• 1 1/2    teaspoons salt
• 1/2       teaspoon black pepper

1. Heat oven to 350° F. Grease large casserole dish or 9-by-13-inch pan with nonstick spray. Set aside.
2. In large skillet, brown sausage, breaking into crumbles. Drain on paper towels. Discard excess grease.
3. In same pan over medium heat, add olive oil. Saute onions, celery and garlic 2-3 minutes, or until starting to soften and fragrant.
4. In large bowl, mix sausage, onion mixture, stuffing cubes, apples and pecans.
5. Add broth and stir to combine. If stuffing mixture remains dry, add additional broth as desired. Season with salt and pepper; stir to combine.
6. Transfer stuffing to prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 minutes.

Source: American Pecan Council

(Family Features) ’Tis the season to dust off the decorations, dig out your family cookbook and celebrate everything that makes the holidays special. While it’s certainly a time to honor longstanding traditions, there’s also room to start something new and put your personal touch on the festivities.

When planning your holiday menu, for example, shake it up with a few simple swaps to impress your guests no matter the meal occasion. For an appetizer, try a Pork and Ricotta Crostini for a flavorful upgrade to the typical cheese platter. Come dinnertime, replace the annual pot roast with a savory and seasonal Apple and Herb-Roasted Pork Shoulder featuring high-quality Farmer John California Natural Fresh Pork, which is made from 100 percent fresh pork and with no artificial ingredients.

For more recipe inspiration and ideas to shake up the season, visit FarmerJohn.com.

Apple and Herb-Roasted Pork Shoulder

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours, 15 minutes
Total time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Servings: 12

• 1          Farmer John Boneless Pork Shoulder Butt Roast
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• garlic powder, to taste
• 1          pound potatoes, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 2          firm apples, cut into six pieces
• 4          thyme sprigs
• 6          sage leaves
• 1          cup chicken broth

1. Heat oven to 500° F.
2. Season pork shoulder roast with salt, pepper and garlic powder, to taste.
3. Lay potatoes and apples in bottom of roasting pan. Top with thyme and sage.
4. Place seasoned pork shoulder in roasting pan on top of thyme and sage.
5. Pour chicken broth into roasting pan. Roast 10-15 minutes until skin is browned.
6. Reduce heat to 300° F and continue to roast, basting liquid over pork every 30 minutes for about 2 hours until internal temperature reaches 155° F.
7. Remove pork shoulder roast and let cool 15 minutes before slicing.
8. Serve with roasted potatoes and apples.

Pork and Ricotta Crostini

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 36 minutes
Total time: 51 minutes
Servings: 10

• 1          Farmer John Pork Tenderloin
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1          tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon, Italian seasoning blend, divided
• 1          teaspoon garlic powder, divided
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 1/2       teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2    cups ricotta cheese
• 1/4       teaspoon onion powder
• 1          long baguette, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• balsamic glaze
• 3          tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

1. Heat oven to 425° F. Rub all sides of pork tenderloin with olive oil and place on rack in shallow roasting pan. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt and pepper evenly over tenderloin.
2. Roast 25-30 minutes per pound until internal temperature reaches 150° F. Remove pork tenderloin from oven and let stand 5-10 minutes. Cut into thin slices.
3. In small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, remaining Italian herb mix, remaining garlic powder and onion powder until well combined. Set aside.
4. Place baguette slices on large baking sheet and bake 2-4 minutes per side while pork tenderloin is standing.
5. To assemble, spread about 1 tablespoon ricotta cheese mixture on one side of each baguette slice; top with thin slices of pork. Garnish with drizzle of balsamic glaze and parsley.

Source: Farmer John

(Family Features) When it comes time to entertain family and friends, it’s important to have a few simple, warm appetizers and small plates at the ready. Plan your menu with recipes that can be prepped ahead of time and popped in the oven when guests arrive. It can make hosting easier and more enjoyable.

A versatile ingredient that can enhance your favorite sweet and savory recipes, Musselman’s Apple Butter is more than just a spread. It’s made the old-fashioned way for perfect texture and a rich apple-cinnamon flavor, giving parties and get-togethers a unique taste in recipes like these Apple Brie Bites and Apple Butter Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp.

Find more appetizers ideal for entertaining at musselmans.com.

Apple Butter Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Servings: 10

• 3/4       cup Musselman’s Apple Butter
• 1/2       cup maple syrup
• 1/2       teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1/2       teaspoon smoked paprika
• 10        pieces bacon
• 10        extra-large shrimp, cleaned and deveined
• chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)

1. Heat oven to 400° F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In medium-sized skillet over medium heat, add apple butter, maple syrup, red pepper flakes, salt and paprika. Whisk until mixture is thick and cooked down by half, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
3. In large skillet over medium heat, add bacon slices and cook until browned but still flexible.  Remove from pan and drain on paper towel-lined plate.
4. Wrap one bacon slice around each shrimp, secure with toothpick and place onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Once all shrimp have been wrapped, baste tops with apple butter mixture.
6. Bake 5 minutes then flip and baste other side of shrimp. Bake another 5 minutes. Continue to flip and baste shrimp (2 minutes each time) until shrimp is fully cooked. Do not overcook as glaze can burn. Sprinkle with cilantro, if desired.

Apple Brie Bites

Servings: 24

• 1          sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 5          ounces Brie cheese
• 1/2       cup Musselman's Apple Butter
• 1/4       cup pecans, chopped

1. Heat oven to 400° F. Grease mini muffin pan.
2. Press seams of puff pastry sheet together. Cut sheet into quarters then each quarter into six pieces. 
3. Use rolling pin to flatten each piece of pastry into square shape. Place one square into each muffin cup.
4. Put 1/2 teaspoon brie, 1 teaspoon apple butter and 1/2 teaspoon chopped pecans into each muffin cup.
5. Bake 13-15 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.

Source:

(Family Features) Stir up sippable, flavorful drinks and snacking soups for easy ways to add more wellness to your day. Start with robust flavors like turmeric, cayenne and ginger then pair with wholesome ingredients like pineapple, dandelion greens and cucumber to create delicious sips to help you awaken, stay energized or replenish.

Fill your glass (or mug) with a breakfast boost to jumpstart your morning, a smoky sipping broth for an afternoon pick-me-up or an evening elixir to help rebalance after a busy day.

Find more easy ways to add wellness to your day at McCormick.com or check out McCormick on Facebook and Pinterest.

Morning Jumpstart

• Spiced Cucumber and Apple Morning Boost – Start the day right with this fresh, homemade drink. This invigorating wake-me-up blends clementine, cucumber and Granny Smith apple with ice, while a pinch of red pepper brings the zing.

• Fizz ’n’ Fruit Energizer – Your morning can get a boost with this citrusy refresher, mixing sparkling clementine juice with muddled apple and cucumber, and a splash of cayenne-spiked simple syrup.

Afternoon Sip

• Smoky Avocado and Mushroom Drinkable Soup – This satisfying, snackable soup combines fragrant smoky chipotle pepper with creamy avocado and fresh cucumbers. Top it off with chopped oyster mushrooms sauteed with herbs and pistachios.

• Herbed Mushroom Sipping Broth with Avocado Oil Drizzle – Power through the day with this rich, filling broth made with fresh oyster mushrooms and seasoned with aromatic herbs like rubbed sage and thyme. For the perfect finish, drizzle avocado oil before serving.

Evening Elixir

• Ginger, Turmeric and Beet Sipping Elixir – Rebalance at the end of the day with a tangy, spiced sipping elixir over ice. With ingredients like ginger, turmeric and apple cider vinegar, it’s loaded with nutritional goodness. Transform it into a tasty Old Fashioned cocktail with the addition of bourbon, orange liqueur, sugar and a maraschino cherry garnish.

• Pineapple Turmeric Mocktail with Muddled Dandelion Greens – Finish the day with a replenishing mocktail. Muddle fresh pineapple with ginger, turmeric and dandelion greens then top with a splash of sparkling water.

Source: McCormick

(Family Features) Easter is all about festive family gatherings and good food. Whether you’re celebrating with your closest or hosting a larger crowd in your home, try these simple tips to keep everyone happy and full without blowing your budget.

Plan ahead: Don’t let the pressure of hosting the holidays stress you. A well-constructed game plan can help you stay on track with your spending goals. Before heading to the grocery store, take inventory of what you already have and create a list of the items you need. These simple steps can save you time and money in the long run.    

Find affordable ingredients and supplies: Grocery shopping can be a daunting task, especially with seemingly endless options. Shopping at a grocery store like ALDI helps you find everything you need in one quick and easy shopping trip, including high-quality, fresh, affordable foods for your Easter spread. While there, you can also pick up other Easter essentials like baskets, toys, bakeware, decor and more.  

Keep leftovers in mind: Food (and money) can go to waste when leftovers go uneaten. Instead of tossing out your forgotten leftovers, incorporate them into a whole new dish. Try these Holiday Ham Sliders using leftovers from main dishes such as Slow-Cooked Maple Ham.

Find more tips and recipes for an appetizing Easter at ALDI.us.

Slow-Cooked Maple Ham

Recipe courtesy of Chef Alyssa, ALDI Test Kitchen   
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 hours, 15 minutes
Servings: 10

• 20        ounces Sweet Harvest Pineapple Chunks
• 8          pounds Appleton Farms Smoked Ham Butt
• 1          cup Specially Selected 100% Pure Maple Syrup
• 1          cup Baker’s Corner Brown Sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon Stonemill Cinnamon
• 1          tablespoon Burman’s Dijon Mustard
• 1          teaspoon Stonemill Ground Black Pepper

1. Pour pineapple into large slow cooker. Place ham on top of pineapple, flat-side down.
2. In small bowl, combine syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, Dijon mustard and pepper. Pour over ham.
3. Set slow cooker to low. Cook 4-5 hours.
4. Remove ham; keep warm. Skim fat off top of remaining liquid in slow cooker.
5. Pour liquid into small saucepan and bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer; cook until reduced to desired consistency.
6. Serve sauce on side or heat oven to broil and glaze ham. Broil 3-4 minutes for caramelized crust.

Holiday Ham Sliders

Recipe courtesy of Chef Linsey, ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

• Carlini Canola Cooking Spray
• 3          ounces Happy Farms Preferred Cranberry White Cheddar, shredded
• 3          ounces Happy Farms Preferred Plain Havarti Cheese, shredded
• 12        ounces L'oven Fresh Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
• 2          tablespoons Burman's Spicy Mustard
• 1/4       cup sliced red onion
• 12        ounces Appleton Farms Spiral Sliced Half Ham
• 1/4       cup sliced green apple
• 4          tablespoons Countryside Creamery butter, melted
• 1/2       teaspoon Stonemill Garlic Powder
• 1/4       teaspoon ground Stonemill Sea Salt
• 1/2       teaspoon Stonemill Parsley Flakes

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. Line 9-by-13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and coat with cooking spray.
3. In small bowl, combine cranberry white cheddar and havarti cheeses. Reserve.
4. Remove entire package of rolls and, keeping rolls connected, slice in half horizontally.
5. Place bottom half of rolls in baking pan. Spread with spicy mustard.
6. Top with red onion, ham, apple, cheese mixture and bun tops.
7. In small bowl, combine butter, garlic powder, salt and parsley flakes. Pour over sandwiches.
8. Cover with foil and bake 15 minutes.
9. Remove foil. Bake 10 minutes more.
10. Remove from pan and separate sandwiches; serve immediately.

Source: ALDI

(Family Features) A holiday season filled with gatherings calls for simple recipes that make baking for family and friends easy and enjoyable.

Traditions are often enjoyed more around the holidays and some classic flavors are must-haves for seasonal parties and dinners. Individually portioned desserts are ideal for entertaining, and these smooth, creamy cheesecakes with vivid holiday color are a perfect single serving that is sure to brighten any dessert table. Or put a festive twist on apple pie with a cinnamon roll-inspired crust.

Each of these desserts features quick and easy preparation, and the delicious flavors of Lucky Leaf Fruit Fillings, which use high-quality fruit and contain no high-fructose corn syrup, for great tasting desserts every time. An array of popular flavors like apple, blueberry, cherry and strawberry make it possible to prepare your favorite holiday desserts in minutes.

Find more inspiration for this season’s holiday baking at luckyleaf.com.

Mini Marbled Cherry Cheesecakes

• 18        chocolate cookies with white filling
• 2          packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1/3       cup sugar
• 2          eggs
• 1          teaspoon vanilla
• 1          can (21 ounces) Lucky Leaf Premium Cherry Fruit Filling, divided

1. Heat oven to 350° F.  Line muffin tins with 18 paper liners.
2. Place one chocolate cookie in bottom of each paper liner.
3. In mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs and vanilla until light and fluffy.  Fold in half of fruit filling. Fill each muffin liner about three-fourths full with mixture.
4. Bake 20-25 minutes, or until done. Cool. Top each cheesecake with spoonful of remaining fruit filling.

Cinnamon Apple Pie

• 1          refrigerated pie crust
• 1          tablespoon butter, melted
• 2          teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2          cans (21 ounces each) Lucky Leaf Premium Apple Fruit Filling
• 1          stick (8 tablespoons) butter, softened
• 1          cup flour
• 1          cup light brown sugar
• 1/2       cup powdered sugar, plus additional (optional)
• 1/4       teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4       teaspoon cinnamon
• 2          teaspoons milk, plus additional (optional)

1. Heat oven to 400° F.
2. On lightly floured surface, unroll pie crust. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with cinnamon. Roll up tightly and slice into 1/2-inch rounds, like miniature cinnamon rolls.
3. Press miniature cinnamon rolls evenly into bottom and sides of 9-inch pie plate, making sure there are no spaces between rolls. Pour fruit filling on top of crust.
4. In large bowl, using pastry blender, combine stick of butter, flour and brown sugar, until crumbly. Sprinkle over apple filling.
5. Bake pie until top and crust are golden brown and filling is bubbling, about 40-45 minutes (cover top and crust with foil, if necessary, to prevent from getting too dark). Remove from oven and allow to cool.
6. In small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and milk to form icing. Add more sugar or milk, if necessary, to reach desired consistency. Drizzle icing over cooled pie.

Source: Lucky Leaf

Flavorful holiday dishes for every course

(Family Features) Whether this holiday marks your culinary debut or you’re a seasoned chef looking for a fresh take on seasonal favorites, you can take some notes from the pros. Every good chef has an arsenal of tricks and techniques to create amazing dishes every time, and the perfect blend of spices is one of those winning secrets.

In a properly seasoned dish, the spice accents the natural flavors without overpowering them. That’s why it’s a good idea to build your menu around spices and herbs of the highest quality, such as Spice Islands, which crafts and packages spices and herbs from around the world to deliver the most authentic and intense flavor possible.

Add flavor-rich, seasonal spices to your holiday table with these flavorful recipes for a Traditional Turkey Rub, Cranberry Apple Chutney, Butternut Squash Soup with Thyme Butter and Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes.

From the appetizers to the main dish to dessert, flavorful seasonings can make a good recipe great. Find more ideas for spicing up your holiday menu at SpiceIslands.com.

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 50 minutes
Yield: 18 mini cheesecakes

• 18        paper baking cups (2 1/2 inch diameter)
• 18        gingersnap cookies
• 12        ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3/4       cup sugar
• 1          tablespoon corn starch
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 2          eggs
• 1          cup canned pumpkin
• 1/3       cup light corn syrup

1. Heat oven to 325° F. Line muffin tin with paper baking cups. Place 1 cookie in each cup.
2. With electric mixer, beat cream cheese, sugar, corn starch and pumpkin pie spice. Add eggs and mix well. Add pumpkin and corn syrup; beat 1 minute.
3. Pour filling into liners, dividing evenly. Bake 30-35 minutes until just set.
4. Chill 1 hour.

Cranberry Apple Chutney

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Yield: 2 cups

• 1          bag (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/4       cup water
• 2          large apples, cored and chopped
• 1 1/2    cups sugar
• 2/3       cup finely chopped onion
• 2/3       cup golden raisins
• 2          teaspoons minced fresh ginger
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Minced Garlic
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 3/4       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Allspice
• 1/4       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Saigon Cinnamon
• 1/8       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Cloves
• 2/3       cup dark corn syrup
• 1/3       cup cider vinegar
• 2/3       cup chopped pecans

1. In large saucepan, combine cranberries, water, apples, sugar, onion, raisins, ginger, garlic, salt, allspice, cinnamon and cloves. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat; cover, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes. Add corn syrup, vinegar and pecans. Cook uncovered 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Serve with roast turkey, pork roast or baked ham.

Butternut Squash Soup with Thyme Butter

Prep time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings

• 1          tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Ginger
• 1/4       teaspoon Spice Islands Cayenne Pepper
• 3          pounds (about 7 cups) butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2          medium cooking apples, peeled, cored and coarsely chopped
• 2          small onions, coarsely chopped
• 2          cans (14 1/2 ounces each) chicken broth, divided
• 1/2       cup water
• Thyme Butter:
• 1/4       cup butter, softened
• 1/2       teaspoon Spice Islands Thyme
• 1/2       teaspoon Spice Islands Garlic Powder

1. Heat oven to 425° F.
2. In large bowl, combine oil, ginger and cayenne pepper. Add squash, apples and onions; toss to coat. Transfer to 15-by-10-inch baking pan. Roast in single layer 35-45 minutes, or until tender. Remove from oven.
3. Working in batches, combine squash mixture and one can chicken broth in blender or food processor; blend until smooth. Transfer pureed mixture to large saucepan. Stir in remaining chicken broth and water. Bring soup to boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes.
4. To make thyme butter: Combine butter, thyme and garlic powder until well blended. Spoon onto wax paper and roll into 3-inch log; wrap tightly and refrigerate until firm.
5. To serve, cut butter into thin slices. Ladle hot soup into individual bowls; top each with slice of butter.

Tip: Puree can be made in advance, covered and refrigerated up to 2 days.

Traditional Turkey Rub

Prep time: 5 minutes
Yield: rub for 1 turkey (about 15 pounds)

• 2          teaspoons Spice Islands Crushed Rosemary
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Thyme
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Onion Powder
• 1/2       teaspoon Spice Islands Garlic Powder
• 1/8       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Saigon Cinnamon
• sea salt
• Spice Islands Ground Black Pepper
• pure olive oil (optional)
• 1          turkey

1. In small bowl, combine rosemary, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder and cinnamon. Generously add salt and pepper. Lightly coat turkey with oil, if desired.
2. Rub all surfaces of turkey with seasoning. Roast according to package directions.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (whole turkey on platter)

Source: Spice Islands

(Family Features) When cooler temperatures call for something to warm you up, good, old-fashioned soups and stews may be just what you need.

You can create delicious, steaming pots that taste like they’re straight out of mom’s kitchen with flavorful, convenient ingredients such as Aunt Nellie’s Pickled Beets and READ Salads to help streamline preparation. With these contemporary recipes, you’re in and out of the kitchen in under an hour without any long simmering required.

Find more recipes to warm yourself from the inside out at AuntNellies.com and READsalads.com.

German Potato Salad Soup

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          cup chopped onion
• 1          cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 2          cans (15 ounces each) READ German Potato Salad, chopped
• 1          bottle (12 ounces) light beer
• 3/4       cup reduced-sodium, fat- free chicken broth
• 6          ounces (1 cup) diced ham, smoked turkey or sliced smoked sausage (optional)
• 1/2       teaspoon salt (optional)
• 1/4       teaspoon pepper
• 1          tablespoon chopped parsley
• rye croutons (optional)
• crumbled bacon (optional)

1. In Dutch oven or 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, cook onion and bell pepper in oil until onion starts to brown, 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add potato salad, beer, broth and meat, if desired, and stir to combine. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salt, if desired, pepper and parsley.
3. Serve topped with rye croutons and bacon, if desired.

Rustic Vegetable Beet Soup

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1          jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Whole Pickled Beets, drained
• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 2          medium onions, coarsely chopped
• 2          medium carrots, coarsely chopped
• 1          medium sweet potato, peeled and chopped
• 2          large cloves garlic, minced
• 2          zucchinis (about 5 ounces each), coarsely chopped
• 2          cans (about 14 ounces each) vegetable broth
• 1          teaspoon seasoned salt (optional)
• 1          can (15 1/2 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 2          tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 2          tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
• Gremolata (optional)

Gremolata:

• 1          tablespoon minced fresh parsley
• 1          tablespoon minced fresh dill
• 2          cloves garlic, minced
• 1          teaspoon grated lemon peel

1. Coarsely chop beets; set aside.
2. In large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions; cook about 5 minutes, or until softened. Add carrots, sweet potato and garlic. Cook 3-5 minutes, or until vegetables begin to soften, stirring occasionally.
3. Add zucchini, broth and seasoned salt, if desired. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, about 15 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Add chickpeas; heat through. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper.
4. To prepare Gremolata: In small bowl, combine all ingredients.
5. Stir in parsley and dill. Stir in beets. Serve immediately; top with Gremolata, if desired.

Tex-Mex Bean and Butternut Squash Stew

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Stew:

• 1          can (15 ounces) READ Southwestern Bean Salad, divided
• 1          teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4-1/2  teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1          clove garlic, chopped
• 2          cups cubed or chopped butternut squash, fresh or frozen (about 1/2- 3/4-inch pieces)
• 1          can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
• 1 1/2    cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1          teaspoon lime zest, plus additional for garnish (optional)
• Chipotle-Lime Crema
• chopped cilantro (optional)

Chipotle-Lime Crema:

• 1/4       cup plain nonfat yogurt or sour cream
• 1          teaspoon lime zest
• 1/8       teaspoon chipotle chili powder

1. To prepare stew: Place half of canned bean salad, cumin, chili powder and garlic into bowl of food processor. Puree until blended but still slightly chunky.
2. Add remaining bean salad to large saucepan. Stir in butternut squash, tomatoes, broth, pureed bean salad mixture and lime zest. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes, or until squash is tender and stew reaches desired thickness.
3. To prepare crema: In small bowl, combine yogurt, lime zest and chili powder.
4. Serve topped with Chipotle-Lime Crema, cilantro and lime zest, if desired.

Notes: If using frozen butternut squash, add to stew during last 2-3 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking. Orange zest can be used instead of lime zest, if desired. Recipe can be doubled.

Bacon-Apple Red Cabbage Soup

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• 2          slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1          medium red onion, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
• 1          clove garlic, minced
• 1          jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie's Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage, not drained
• 2          cups low-sodium, fat-free chicken or vegetable broth
• 1          medium apple, chopped (about 1 cup), plus additional for garnish (optional)
• 1/4       teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/8       teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
• 1/8       teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
• plain yogurt or sour cream (optional)
• crumbled cooked bacon (optional)

1. In large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook bacon 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through and crisp. Remove bacon from skillet; reserve. Drain drippings; return 1 tablespoon to pan; discard remaining drippings.
2. Add onion to pan. Cook about 2 minutes, until tender, stirring frequently. Add garlic; cook and stir about 30 seconds. Add red cabbage and liquid from jar, broth and chopped apple. Stir in cinnamon, allspice and cloves. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, 10 minutes. Add water, 1/2 cup at a time, if soup is too thick. Add bacon to pan. Continue simmering about 3-5 minutes, until apples are tender and soup reaches desired consistency.
3. Spoon into bowl. Garnish with apples, yogurt and crumbled bacon, if desired.

Source: Aunt Nellie’s

(Family Features) Crisp fall days call for flavorful desserts that warm you from the inside out. There’s no better way to capture the flavor of fall than with dishes that celebrate traditional seasonal favorites like cinnamon, spice and tart, juicy apples.

These desserts are perfect for fall, and a secret ingredient makes them quick and easy so you have plenty of free time to work up an appetite and earn an extra bite (or two). Apple butter is more than just a spread for toast; it’s a versatile ingredient that can enhance your favorite recipes. With Musselman’s Apple Butter, made the old-fashioned way for perfect texture and a deep, rich flavor, you can make it simple to satisfy your craving for a taste of autumn at its best.

Find more fall tips and recipes perfect for sharing with your family at musselmans.com.

Caramel Crumble Bars

• 1          box (15 1/4 ounces) yellow cake mix, dry
• 1/2       cup butter, softened, plus 2 tablespoons, divided
• 3/4       cup Musselman’s Apple Butter, plus 3 tablespoons
• 1          egg
• 1          package (11 ounces) caramels, unwrapped
• 2/3       cup walnuts, chopped
• 2/3       cup flaked coconut, sweetened
• 2          tablespoons butter, melted

1. Heat oven to 350° F. Grease 13-by-9-inch baking pan.
2. With electric mixer on low speed, beat dry cake mix and 1/2 cup softened butter until mixture is crumbly. Spoon 1 cup cake mix mixture into medium bowl; set aside.
3. Add 3/4 cup apple butter and egg to remaining mixture. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Spread evenly into pan. Bake 20 minutes, or until starting to brown and top is set.
5. Place caramels, 2 tablespoons butter and remaining apple butter in microwavable bowl. Microwave on high 3-4 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and melted.
6. Pour caramel mixture evenly over partially baked crust. If caramel has cooled and set, microwave 1 minute until soft and pourable.
7. Combine walnuts, coconut and 2 tablespoons melted butter with reserved cake mix mixture. Mix until crumbly.
8. Break up topping and sprinkle evenly over caramel.
9. Bake 16-18 minutes, or until topping is starting to brown. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Easy Apple Pie Bars

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Servings: 20

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 7          cups Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and diced
• 1          cup Musselman’s Apple Butter
• 1 1/2    teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
• 1/2       cup brown sugar
• 2          frozen pie crusts, defrosted
• 1          egg white
• 2          tablespoons sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1          cup powdered sugar
• 2          tablespoons milk

1. Heat oven to 350° F. Grease 9-by-13-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Place diced apples in large mixing bowl. Add apple butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla and brown sugar. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Place one pie crust in bottom of greased pan. Slowly stretch out crust to cover pan’s bottom. Cut some edges off, if necessary. Spread apple filling evenly over crust.
4. With rolling pin, roll second crust to make it same size as pan. Place second crust on top of apple pie filling and tuck down edges to cover.
5. To make topping: In small bowl, whisk egg white until foamy and brush over crust. In another bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle evenly over crust.
6. Bake 50-60 minutes until crust is golden brown. Remove from oven and cool slightly before cutting.
7. To make glaze: In small bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk and remaining vanilla, and whisk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bars and serve.

Source: Musselman’s Apple Butter