(Family Features) Regardless of your motivation, opting for meatless meals regularly provides plenty of benefits that extend from the health of you and your loved ones to your wallet and the environment. 

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, considering making some lifestyle changes or just want to give an on-trend meal prep strategy a try, going meatless can help reduce your intake of red and processed meats, decrease greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change and save money on substitute ingredients like grains, vegetables, fruits and legumes that are often cheaper than meat.

For example, starting with a versatile pantry staple like Success Brown Rice can make mealtimes quick and easy. Ready in just 10 minutes without measuring or the mess, the fluffy, nutty, non-GMO rice is free of MSG and preservatives, lending itself perfectly to satisfying and hearty meals like these Baked Vegetarian Taquitos. Or for a twist on a classic dish, Tri-Color Quinoa can be layered with traditional flavors in this Mushroom Spinach “Lasagna.” Packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids, the quinoa is a good source of fiber.

To find more meatless meal inspiration, visit SuccessRice.com.

Baked Vegetarian Taquitos

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

• 1 bag Success Brown Rice
• 1 cup shredded collard greens, packed
• 1/4 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 8 flour tortillas (6 inches each)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• sour cream, for dipping
• salsa, for dipping
• guacamole, for dipping
• fresh cilantro, for garnish

1. Prepare rice according to package directions; add collard greens and corn to water during last 5 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 450 F. Drain rice and vegetables; transfer to saucepan. Stir in black beans, pumpkin puree and taco seasoning.
3. Spoon 1/3 cup rice mixture into center of one tortilla; sprinkle with 2 tablespoons Monterey Jack cheese. Roll up tightly. Place seam side down on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas, filling and cheese. Brush taquitos with olive oil; sprinkle with remaining cheese.
4. Bake 10-15 minutes, or until tortillas are crisp and cheese is melted.
5. Serve taquitos with sour cream, salsa and guacamole for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Mushroom Spinach "Lasagna"

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

• 2 bags Success Tri-Color Quinoa
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups baby spinach leaves
• 3 cups tomato sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1. Prepare quinoa according to package directions.
2. Preheat oven to 375 F.
3. In large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onions; saute 1 minute. Add mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce and keep warm.
4. In medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
5. Place 1 cup sauce in bottom of 2-quart baking dish. Spread half of quinoa evenly over sauce. Top with half of ricotta mixture. Top with 1 cup sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake uncovered 30 minutes. Serve warm.

Source: Success Rice

(Family Features) Red or white, sweet or dry, wine lovers are often entertainers at heart. When inviting guests to share your personal favorites, nothing enhances a tasting get-together quite like complementary snack and wine pairings.

The next time you find a wine party on your schedule, consider these simple yet delicious recommendations from sommelier and founder of “The Lush Life,” Sarah Tracey, who partnered with Fresh Cravings to create “Dips and Sips.” Aimed at reinventing wine and cheese parties, the movement focuses on simplistic recipes, easy dip pairings and suggested wines.

“When I entertain at home, I’m always looking for ways to impress my friends with fresh, creative bites I can pair with wine,” Tracey said. “My favorite hack is finding great products with high-quality ingredients then creating simple, elevated ways to serve them. The less time I spend in the kitchen, the more time I get to spend with my guests.”

Tracey relies on the versatility of Fresh Cravings’ array of dip options and crowd-pleasing, bold flavors worth celebrating. With authentic-tasting chilled salsas offering a vibrant alternative to soft, dull blends of jarred salsa and flavor-filled hummus made with premium ingredients like Chilean Virgin Olive Oil, these dips elevate both traditional and reinvented recipes.

For example, Tracey’s recipes for Polenta Rounds with Pico de Gallo Salsa and Crab, Spiced Butternut Squash Naan Flatbreads, Cheesy Tortilla Cutouts with Salsa and Hummus-Stuffed Mushrooms offer flavorful, easy-to-make appetizers that can make entertaining easy and effortless. Plus, these crave-worthy morsels are just as tasty and approachable for guests choosing to skip the wine.

Find more recipe and pairing ideas perfect for enhancing your next party at FreshCravings.com.

Hummus-Stuffed Mushrooms

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Tracey
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

• Nonstick olive oil spray
• 16 ounces cremini mushrooms, stems removed and gills scooped out
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 container Fresh Cravings Classic Hummus
• 1 jar manzanilla olives stuffed with pimientos, cut in half
• 1 jar roasted red pepper strips
• Oregon Pinot Noir

1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Prepare sheet pan with nonstick olive oil spray.
2. Place mushroom caps on sheet pan, spray with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
3. Roast 7-8 minutes then let mushrooms cool to room temperature.
4. Fill each mushroom cap with hummus and top each with one olive slice.
5. Thinly slice roasted red pepper strips and arrange around olive slices.
6. Pair with lighter bodied pinot noir with cherry tones from Oregon.

Cheesy Tortilla Cutouts with Salsa

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Tracey
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 6 large flour tortillas
• 16 ounces pepper jack cheese, grated
• 1 can (4 ounces) green chiles, drained
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 container Fresh Cravings Restaurant Style Salsa, Medium
• New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare sheet pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Place large flour tortilla on sheet pan. Top with handful of grated cheese.
3. Sprinkle chiles on top of cheese layer. Add chopped cilantro. Sprinkle with additional cheese.
4. Top with another tortilla. Bake until cheese is melted, about 10 minutes. Work in batches to make three sets of cheese-filled tortillas.
5. Cut out desired shapes with cookie cutters.
6. Serve with salsa and pair with sauvignon blanc from New Zealand with zest and zing.

Spiced Butternut Squash Naan Flatbreads

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Tracey
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1 1/2 pounds butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 container Fresh Cravings Roasted Garlic Hummus
• 1 package mini naan dippers
• 1 bunch fresh rosemary, minced
• La Veielle Ferme Rosé

1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
2. Chop butternut squash into 1/2-inch chunks.
3. Toss squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cumin and chili powder.
4. Spread on sheet pan, sprinkle with salt and pepper, to taste, and roast until tender, about 20 minutes.
5. Spread hummus on naan dippers and top each with squash and fresh rosemary.
6. Pair with deeper, savory and earthy rosé.

Polenta Rounds with Pico de Gallo Salsa and Crab

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Tracey
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1 tube (16 ounces) prepared polenta
• nonstick cooking spray
• salt, to taste
• 8 ounces jumbo lump crabmeat
• 1 container Fresh Cravings Pico de Gallo Salsa, Mild
• 1 bunch fresh mint, finely chopped
• Mateus Rosé

1. Heat oven to 400 F.
2. Slice polenta into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange on baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray and bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle with salt, to taste, and let cool.
3. Combine jumbo lump crabmeat with salsa.
4. Top each polenta round with crab salsa mixture.
5. Garnish with finely chopped fresh mint and pair with vibrant, fruity rosé.

Source: Fresh Cravings

(Family Features) Despite busy lives and full schedules, finding time for regular meals with loved ones encourages connections and conversations that can benefit mental and physical well-being. Gathering your family, friends, coworkers or neighbors at least once a week to spend time together over a meal provides opportunities to decompress and socialize.

If you’re looking for a little delicious inspiration, the American Heart Association recommends scheduling one night per week to create a recurring tradition and enjoy favorites such as breakfast for dinner. Recipes like Egg, Avocado and Black Bean Breakfast Burritos; Huevos Rancheros; and Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls from the Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best, are perfectly suited for sharing while making time to destress at the dinner table.

In fact, according to a study by “Canadian Family Physician,” regular meals at home with loved ones can reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make everyone feel connected with mealtime conversations that allow a chance to unplug and unwind.

Meals don’t have to be elaborate for a successful evening together. Despite the perceived effort involved with preparing a meal, research published in “Preventive Medicine” shows those who have frequent meals with others, particularly parents with their children, may improve social and emotional well-being.

In addition to the mental and emotional benefits of meals with loved ones, eating together can also encourage healthier choices when better-for-you recipes are on the menu. Dining as a group can provide inspiration to try heart-healthy recipes that include the wide variety of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and healthy protein sources recommended by the American Heart Association to help prevent heart disease and stroke.

To find recipe ideas, conversation starters and more tips for mealtime, visit heart.org/together.

Huevos Rancheros

Servings: 4

Salsa:

• 1 teaspoon canola oil
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1/2 cup diced poblano pepper, seeds and ribs discarded
• 1 small fresh jalapeno pepper, seeds and ribs discarded, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Huevos Rancheros:

• 1 teaspoon canola oil
• 4 large eggs
• 4 corn tortillas (6 inches), warm
• 1 can (15 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup shredded low-fat Mexican cheese blend
• 1 small avocado, quartered and sliced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 medium lime, cut into four wedges (optional)

1. To make salsa: In medium saucepan over medium heat, heat oil, swirling to coat bottom. Cook onion 2 minutes, or until almost soft, stirring frequently. Cook poblano and jalapeno peppers 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in garlic. Cook 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes, water and salt. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover to keep warm.
2. To make huevos rancheros: In medium nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat oil, swirling to coat bottom. Cook eggs 3-4 minutes, or until whites are set and edges are fully cooked.
3. Place one tortilla on each plate. Top each tortilla with beans and one egg, being careful not to break yolk. Gently top each egg with warm salsa, cheese and avocado slices.
4. Sprinkle each serving with cilantro and serve with lime wedge, if desired.

Egg, Avocado and Black Bean Breakfast Burritos

Servings: 4

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 1/3 cups liquid egg whites
• 1 can (15 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained
• 4 whole-wheat tortillas (6 inches, lowest sodium available)
• 2 medium avocados, sliced
• 1/4 cup hot sauce or salsa (lowest sodium available, optional)

1. Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over medium heat.
2. In skillet, stir egg whites constantly with rubber spatula to scramble. Cook until eggs are almost set. Add beans, stirring until combined and heated through.
3. Microwave tortillas on high 45 seconds. Transfer to work surface.
4. Spread egg mixture in center of each tortilla. Top with the avocado and hot sauce, if desired.
5. For each burrito, fold two sides of tortilla toward center. Starting from closest unfolded side, roll burrito toward remaining unfolded side to enclose filling. Transfer with seam side down to plates.

Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls

Servings: 4

• 1/4 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 1 cup no-salt-added frozen corn, thawed
• 1/2 medium avocado, pitted and diced
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• nonstick cooking spray
• 4 large eggs
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• red hot-pepper sauce, to taste (optional)

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat.
2. Spoon quinoa into four bowls. Top each with tomatoes, corn, avocado, green onions and cilantro, if desired.
3. Lightly spray large skillet over medium-high heat with nonstick cooking spray. Crack eggs into skillet. Sprinkle eggs with salt and pepper. Cook, uncovered, 3-4 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks are still runny. Using spatula, carefully transfer one egg sunny side up into each bowl. Sprinkle with hot sauce, if desired.

Source: American Heart Association

(Family Features) Maintaining a healthy eating plan can be challenging year-round, and busier fall schedules can make those goals even more difficult. Finding easy-to-make favorites can keep you and your loved ones on track as you navigate those hectic moments this autumn.

One simple yet delicious solution: Chopped Salad Kits and Sheet Pan Meal Starter Kits from Dole, which make it easy to incorporate vegetables without the hassle of kitchen prep. Take the guesswork out of meal planning for your time-starved family with these limited-ingredient, kit-based dishes.

Mexican Street Corn Bowls with Grilled Chicken provide a perfect balance of hearty yet nutritious flavor while taking advantage of the convenience of prepackaged ingredients. Perfect for fall weather, Roasted Chicken and Vegetable Soup requires just three ingredients and hungry loved ones for a filling meal worth celebrating.

For more original easy-to-make fall recipes, nutritional insights and information, visit Dole.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter  and Pinterest.

Mexican Street Corn Bowls with Grilled Chicken

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1 cup dry instant brown rice
• 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 large ears fresh corn, silks and husks removed
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 Dole Limes, juice only (about 3 tablespoons), divided
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package (12.9 ounces) DOLE® Chopped Chipotle & Cheddar Kit
• 1 Dole Avocado, peeled, pitted and thinly sliced
• 1 cup chopped Dole Pineapple

1. Prepare grill for direct grilling over medium-high heat. Prepare rice according to package instructions.
2. Brush all sides of chicken and corn with oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place chicken and corn on hot grill rack; cover and cook 8 minutes, or until grill marks appear and internal temperature of chicken reaches 165 F, turning chicken once and corn frequently. Transfer chicken and corn to cutting board; let stand 5 minutes. Cut corn kernels from cobs into medium bowl. Slice chicken 1/4-inch thick crosswise.
3. Add 1 tablespoon lime juice, cilantro and paprika to corn; toss and fold in Parmesan cheese. In small bowl, whisk dressing from salad kit and remaining lime juice.
4. Serve rice in bowls topped with avocado, pineapple, chicken, corn mixture and remaining contents of salad kit drizzled with dressing mixture.

Roasted Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1 DOLE® Homestyle Roasted Herb Sheet Pan Meal Starter Kit
• 1 container (32 ounces) chicken broth
• 1 cup whole-wheat pasta shells, cooked

1. Prepare sheet pan meal starter kit according to package instructions. Transfer to cutting board and carefully cut chicken and vegetables into 1/2-inch pieces.
2. In medium saucepot over medium-high heat, bring chicken broth to simmer. Stir in pasta shells, chicken and vegetables. Reduce heat to medium. Cook 5 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Source: Dole

(Family Features) The next time your loved ones crave a comforting dish that’s warming from the inside-out, turn to an all-time classic with a touch of southern flair.

Take inspiration for this Tex-Mex Beef Lasagna from season 3 of “BBQuest: Beyond the Pit,” a video series that dives into the long-held traditions, new flavors and everyday inspiration that make Texas barbecue legendary. Developed from the show by BBQuest co-host and “Hardcore Carnivore” cookbook author Jess Pryles, this tasty take on comfort food can be the perfect solution for a family meal with plenty of leftovers.

After dinner, settle in together and learn pitmaster techniques from the experts as the series follows four themes that capture the essence of Texas barbecue: legacy and tradition; creativity and innovation; Texas trailblazers; and family and community.

“Since launching BBQuest four years ago, it’s truly remarkable to see how much has changed and yet stayed the same when it comes to Texas barbecue, and that’s exactly what you see in season 3,” said Rachel Chou, Texas Beef Council’s director of consumer marketing. “There has been so much exciting innovation around cooking methods and international flavors while there’s still a huge dedication to long-held recipes and smoking techniques.”

To find more pitmaster-worthy recipes, visit BeefLovingTexans.com.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Tex-Mex Beef Lasagna

Recipe courtesy of Jess Pryles on behalf of Beef Loving Texans
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 10

• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1          onion, diced
• 2          pounds ground beef
• 2          teaspoons kosher salt
• 1          teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2       teaspoon cumin
• 2          teaspoons chipotle powder
• 1/2       teaspoon onion powder
• 15        ounces canned corn, drained
• 15        ounces canned seasoned black beans, drained
• 10        ounces canned diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
• 15        ounces canned red enchilada sauce
• 1          cup Mexican crema or sour cream
• nonstick cooking spray
• 12        corn tortillas
• 8          ounces shredded Mexican blend cheese
• cilantro (optional)
• green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. In large pan or skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat then add onion. Cook until softened, 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly.
3. Add ground beef and cook, stirring regularly, until beef has browned.
4. Add kosher salt, garlic powder, cumin, chipotle powder and onion powder; stir well. Add corn, black beans and diced tomatoes. Turn heat to medium and simmer 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. In bowl, combine enchilada sauce and crema; mix well.
6. Spray casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Pour about 1/4 cup enchilada sauce mixture on bottom to prevent tortillas from sticking.
7. Layer 2-4 tortillas across bottom then top with layer of ground beef mixture. Use ladle to spoon some enchilada sauce mixture on top, distributing evenly. Top with another layer of tortillas then repeat layers until casserole is full, 3-4 layers. Top with shredded cheese.
8. Loosely cover dish with foil in tent shape to help prevent cheese from sticking then bake 30 minutes.
9. Remove foil and bake 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Cool 5 minutes before serving. Top with cilantro and green onions, if desired.

Source: Beef Loving Texans

(Family Features) When dining outside with your loved ones, there are few things better than a tasty dish the whole family can enjoy. This Chipotle Chicken Flatbread makes for a perfect al fresco meal.

Prepared along with a fresh salad or simply enjoyed by itself, this flatbread is simple to make and even kids will love adding the toppings and sauce. It’s colorful and fresh, making it a perfect addition to get-togethers on the patio.

Plus, the cooking time is only 16 minutes, which makes this a quick and delicious solution to defeat.

For more al fresco recipe ideas, visit Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Chipotle Chicken Flatbread

Adapted from butteryourbiscuit.com

• 2          flatbreads
• 2          cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1          clove garlic, diced
• 4          chicken tenders, cooked and cubed
• 1          pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1/2       cup ranch dressing
• 1 1/2    teaspoons chipotle seasoning
• 2          tablespoons cilantro leaves, chopped

1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. Place parchment paper on baking sheet and add flatbreads. Sprinkle cheese on flatbreads. Top with garlic, chicken and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bake 16 minutes until cheese is melted.
3. In small bowl, mix ranch and chipotle seasoning.
4. Drizzle ranch dressing on flatbread and sprinkle with cilantro leaves.

(Family Features) Cooking delicious family meals is surely the focus of many home chefs, from quick dishes on busy weeknights to homestyle favorites on the weekend. Equally important, however, is dishing up foods and ingredients you can feel good about serving to your loved ones.

The next time seafood is on the menu, consider the source of your main course. Available fresh, frozen, smoked and canned year-round and nationwide, seafood from Alaska is sustainably harvested, and you can trust it comes from a responsibly managed fishery. Utilizing a science-based approach, the state sustains the long-term vitality of species and their natural habitats, as well as the fishing communities that rely on them.

Fishermen and scientists work together to ensure they only harvest what science tells them the ecosystem can support, so that fish stocks, communities and the marine environment can thrive for generations to come.

Wild, sustainable and harvested in the USA, Alaska seafood is full of flavor and high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals and oils essential to good health, including omega-3s and vitamin D. You can feel good serving your loved ones these Blackened Alaska Cod Tacos as a classic way to spice up your dinner table, or give a sweet heat kick to Spicy Alaska Sablefish in Lettuce Cups with Korean chili paste, miso and honey.

Visit alaskaseafood.org to find more information and family-friendly recipes.

Spicy Alaska Sablefish in Lettuce Cups

Recipe courtesy of the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 (2 lettuce cups each)

• 1/4 cup yellow or white miso
• 1 tablespoon Korean chili paste
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 pound Alaska sablefish (black cod), cut into 2-ounce portions
• nonstick cooking spray
• 1 small avocado, pitted, peeled and chopped
• 1-1 1/4 cups cooked sushi rice or quinoa
• 1/2 cup chopped English cucumber
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced halved radish
• 1/2 cup pickled ginger, chopped
• 1/2 cup bottled Asian-style salad dressing with wasabi and ginger
• 8 medium-large butter lettuce leaves
• 1/2 cup cilantro leaves

1. Blend miso, chili paste and honey; spread onto Alaska sablefish portions. Place portions on nonstick cooking spray-coated, foil-lined baking sheet. Roast 5-7 minutes, or until fish is opaque throughout and deep golden brown; cool slightly.
2. In mixing bowl, combine avocado, rice or quinoa, cucumber, radishes and ginger; pour in dressing. Toss to coat.
3. To serve, place about 1/3 cup vegetable-rice mixture in each lettuce leaf. Top with one sablefish portion. Sprinkle each lettuce cup with 1 tablespoon cilantro leaves.

Blackened Alaska Cod Tacos

Recipe courtesy of the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute and Sari Diskin
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2-3

• 2 cups slaw mix
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce, plus additional for serving
• 1 lime, divided
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• nonstick cooking spray
• 1/2 pound Alaska cod
• olive oil
• blackening seasoning, to taste, plus additional, divided
• sea salt, to taste
• 4 small flour tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. In bowl, mix slaw with mayonnaise, hot sauce, juice from 1/2 lime and salt and pepper, to taste; set aside.
3. Line baking dish with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Place Alaska cod on top and coat lightly with olive oil. Generously season with blackening seasoning and sea salt, to taste.
4. Bake 5 minutes, set oven to broil and broil 3-5 minutes. When fish is done (when it flakes easily with fork and is opaque throughout), remove from oven and break into small chunks with fork.
5. In flour tortillas, add avocado and slaw. Top with chunks of cod and drizzle with additional hot sauce, squeeze of lime juice from remaining 1/2 lime and additional blackening seasoning.

Photo courtesy of Sari Diskin (Blackened Alaska Cod Tacos)

Source: Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute

Family Features) If you’re seeking inspiration to take mealtime from bland and boring to new and vibrant, look no further than these at-home fiesta recipes. With options ranging from tongue-tingling spice to smooth, creamy and simply delicious, you can call on global flavors to bring life to your kitchen.

This menu from “The New York Times” bestselling cookbook author and recipe developer Stephanie Banyas offers delightful flavor fusions from around the world. The lively tastes of the Spicy Shrimp Remoulade in Lettuce Leaves and Mexican Style Paella with Chicken and Sausage pop with the high-quality ingredients of Fresh Cravings Salsas.

These boldly flavored salsas are made with vine-ripened tomatoes, crisp onions, zesty peppers and spices. Plus, they’re never cooked or pasteurized, meaning you’re enjoying a vibrant dip that’s never soggy or dull. Available in a range of heat levels among restaurant style, chunky and pico de gallo, they complement any at-home fiesta.

For a fiery, zesty twist, this Red Pepper Chickpea Soup with Gazpacho Relish and Tortilla Croutons calls for Fresh Cravings Hummus, as its ideal creamy texture and savory taste balances out the spice. Made with a short list of high-quality ingredients like chickpeas, tahini and Chilean extra-virgin olive oil, this hummus has a smooth, creamy mouthfeel.

“The hummus adds loads of flavor and makes this thick, rich soup totally dairy and gluten free, so there is no need for heavy cream, cornstarch or flour,” Banyas said. “It’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.”

To find more fiesta-worthy recipe ideas, visit freshcravings.com.

Red Pepper Chickpea Soup with Gazpacho Relish and Tortilla Croutons

Recipe courtesy of Stephanie Banyas
Servings: 2

• 1/4 cup finely diced seeded English cucumbers
• 1/4 cup finely diced seeded Roma tomato
• 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 lime, juice only, divided
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 2 cups canned low-sodium vegetable stock, divided
• 1/2 cup Fresh Cravings Restaurant Style Salsa (mild or medium)
• 1 container (10 ounces) Fresh Cravings Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

• tri-color fried tortilla strips

1. In small bowl, combine cucumber, tomato, onion and cilantro. Add half the lime juice and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Let sit at room temperature.
2. In blender or food processor, process 1 cup stock and salsa until smooth.
3. Pour mixture into medium saucepan. Add remaining stock and hummus, season with salt and pepper, to taste, and bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until slightly thickened, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in remaining lime juice.
4. Divide soup between two bowls and top with relish and tortilla strips.

Spicy Shrimp Remoulade in Lettuce Leaves

Recipe courtesy of Stephanie Banyas
Yield: 8 leaves

Shrimp:

• 1/2 cup Fresh Cravings Chunky Salsa (mild or medium)
• 9 cups water, divided
• ice water
• 1 lime, sliced
• 12 sprigs cilantro
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 pound fresh shrimp (31-35), peeled and deveined

Remoulade Sauce:

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
• 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon chile powder or smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup Fresh Cravings Chunky Salsa (mild or medium), drained well
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup green onion, thinly sliced, plus additional for garnish

• 8 butter or Boston lettuce leaves
• cilantro leaves, for garnish
• lime wedges, for garnish
• chopped black olives, for garnish (optional)
• chopped hard-cooked eggs, for garnish (optional)

1. To make shrimp: In food processor or blender, blend salsa with 1 cup water until smooth.
2. Fill large bowl with ice water; set aside. Transfer salsa mixture to large saucepan and add remaining water, lime slices, cilantro sprigs and salt. Bring to boil over high heat; stir in shrimp, cover, turn off heat and let shrimp poach off heat in liquid 10 minutes.
3. Drain in colander. Transfer shrimp to ice bath and let sit 5 minutes. Drain again.
4. To make remoulade sauce: In large bowl, whisk mayonnaise, mustard, lime juice, chile powder, sugar, salt and pepper until combined; fold in salsa.
5. Put half of remoulade sauce in large bowl. Fold in shrimp and cilantro, adding remoulade as needed to make mixture creamier; taste for seasoning. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes, or up to 6 hours.
6. Arrange lettuce cups on platter. Spoon equal portions shrimp mixture into lettuce cups. Garnish with cilantro leaves; lime wedges; black olives, if desired; and eggs, if desired.

Mexican Style Paella with Chicken and Sausage

Recipe courtesy of Stephanie Banyas
Servings: 4-6

• 1 container (16 ounces) Fresh Cravings Chunky Salsa (mild or medium)
• 12 ounces chicken tenders, patted dry
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 12 ounces fully cooked chicken sausage or pork sausage links
• 3 cups low-sodium canned chicken stock, water or combination
• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• lime wedges

1. Remove 1/2 cup salsa and set aside. In blender or food processor, process remaining salsa until smooth.
2. Put chicken in bowl, add 1/2 cup pureed salsa and toss to coat. Cover and marinate at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in refrigerator.
3. In large, high-sided saute pan over high heat, heat 2 tablespoons oil until it begins to shimmer. Season chicken with salt and pepper, to taste, and cook until both sides are golden brown and just cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Remove to plate, loosely tent with foil and let rest 10 minutes then slice into 2-inch pieces.
4. Add remaining oil to pan and heat until shimmering; cook sausage until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove to plate, loosely tent with foil and let rest 10 minutes. Slice on bias into 2-inch pieces.
5. Wipe out pan with paper towels. Add remaining pureed salsa and stock; bring to boil. Add rice and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring mixture to boil, cover and reduce heat to medium-low; cook until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, about 18 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle peas on top. Let sit, covered with lid, 5 minutes. Fluff with fork then stir in chicken, sausage, peas and cilantro. Spoon remaining salsa on top.

Source: Fresh Cravings

(Family Features) Warmer weather is often welcome for a variety of reasons and dining outdoors can help take that appreciation to the next level. Keeping ingredients lists short and prep time minimal also allows you to spend more time enjoying the sunshine and blue skies al fresco with the ones you love.

Even when you’re short on time, you can take mealtime from the dining room to the deck with an ingredient like Minute Rice Cups. Available in 13 varieties, including White and Brown rice, the convenient, single-serving, BPA-free cups are ready in just 90 seconds or less. Perfect for taking to the office for lunch or as an on-the-go snack, the cups can also be used as a quick and easy base for nearly any meal occasion.

For example, this simple Fish with Bok Choy features plenty of complex flavors with flaky white fish, crisp bok choy and 100% whole-grain brown rice. The brown rice provides the ideal texture for the ginger, sesame and nutty notes in this dish, and the whole recipe can be on the table in 10 minutes. Because white fish fillets are neutral and mild, they absorb all the flavors from the dish, and are an ideal protein for those with busy schedules due to their short cooking time.

Or, bursting with colors and flavors, this Fiesta Rice satisfies fresh cravings with an irresistible combo of white rice, tomatoes, green onions and creamy avocado. Ready in less than 5 minutes, this dish can also be customized with a different grain variety or extra juicy, sweet cherry tomatoes in place of diced tomatoes. To make this satisfying side a complete meal, simply add grilled chicken or your favorite protein.

To find more quick and easy recipes perfect for enjoying outdoors, visit MinuteRice.com.

Fish with Bok Choy

Prep time: 3 minutes
Cook time: 7 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 Minute Brown Rice Cup
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 white fish fillet
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 baby bok choy, quartered
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

1. Heat rice according to package directions. Set aside.
2. Add salt and pepper to both sides of fish, to taste.
3. In medium skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Cook fish 2 minutes on each side. Remove fish from pan and keep warm.
4. In same pan, add sesame oil and ginger. Cook 1 minute.
5. Add bok choy to pan and stir-fry 2 minutes. Add soy sauce; stir to incorporate. Top rice with fish and serve with bok choy.

Fiesta Rice

Prep time: 3 minutes
Cook time: 1 minute
Servings: 1

• 1 Minute White Rice Cup
• 1 diced tomato
• 1/2 diced avocado
• 1 sliced green onion
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste

1. Heat rice according to package directions. Set aside.
2. In bowl, combine tomato, avocado, onion and cilantro.
3. Add lime juice and salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Mix thoroughly and serve.

Source: Minute Rice

(Family Features) As you and your family embark on a mission to create delicious, nutritious meals all while saving money, it’s key to remember meal planning is essential for success. From tracking a list of ingredients you’ll need to noting your loved ones’ favorite foods, there are some easy steps you can take to make dinners at home enjoyable and budget friendly.

Getting on track with your own plan can start with these tips from Healthy Family Project’s Mission for Nutrition, which aims to help families find weekly meal success with an internationally inspired e-cookbook including grocery lists, recipe ideas and cooking hacks.

Work together. Before heading to the store or heating up the oven, sit down with your loved ones and make a list of easy-to-make recipes you all enjoy. Each time you discover a new favorite, add it to the list so you’ll have a reference guide when it’s time to plan a week’s worth of meals.

Stick to a schedule. Set a day and time each week your family can meet and plan out dinners. This also offers an opportunity to bring to light any newfound favorites or fresh ideas while bringing everyone to the same room for quality time together.

Plan time-saving processes. Think ahead while planning meals and consider the equipment you’ll need. Saving time while cooking can be as easy as sticking to recipes that call for hands-off appliances like a slow cooker or pressure cooker and using a food processor rather than a knife and cutting board.

Schedule a “leftovers night.” When you prep dinners that call for crossover ingredients, it’s easier to turn one meal into two. For example, buying sweet onions and chicken breast to make Chicken Apple Enchiladas means you’ll have those ingredients on hand for Greek Chicken Bowls later in the week.

Make a list. Once you’ve decided on recipes for the week, create a list of all the ingredients you’ll need. While you’re at the store, stick to your plan and avoid impulse buys to help stay on track while getting in and out quicker.

Find more recipes and meal planning tips by downloading the free e-cookbook at healthyfamilyproject.com/mission-for-nutrition and join the conversation by following #missionfornutrition on social media.

Chicken Apple Enchiladas

Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project's Mission for Nutrition

• 1/2 sweet onion, diced
• 1 jalapeno, diced
• 1 Envy or Jazz apple, diced
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 8 flour tortillas
• 6 ounces shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
• 1 can red enchilada sauce
• cilantro (optional)

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. In skillet, cook onions until translucent. Add jalapeno and apple; saute 2-3 minutes.
3. Add cooked chicken and mix well. Remove from heat.
4. Lay out tortillas and sprinkle cheese on each. Add chicken mixture and roll. Place in baking dish and cover with enchilada sauce.
5. Bake 20 minutes, or until heated throughout.

Greek Chicken Bowls

Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project's Mission for Nutrition

• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
• 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
• 1 RealSweet onion, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cucumber, cut into quarters
• 1/2 cup black olives
• 1 tablespoon feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons tzatziki sauce

1. Place cooked rice and chicken in bowls.
2. Top each bowl with sweet onions, tomatoes, cucumbers and black olives. Sprinkle each with feta cheese. Drizzle each with tzatziki sauce.

Source: Healthy Family Project