Appetizers are many people’s favorite part of a meal. From dips and finger foods to little treats and fried pieces of perfection, there is a wide array of considerations for a pre-meal snack.

Some appetizers are much more appropriate at certain events. For example, buffalo chicken wings are best enjoyed on game days, salads are normally served at showers and vegetable trays are a typical Thanksgiving Day classic.

However, there are recipes that are too easy to make and too satisfying not to serve at almost every festivity you and your family attend. This Easy Crab Rangoon shines above the rest for many reasons, but the main point of this heavenly sample is it’s easy to make and bake.

This appetizer is placed in the oven until it’s golden brown, topped with little green scallions with a creamy filling all packaged in a crispy outer layer.

Plus, the cream cheese is mixed with luscious amounts of crab meat. This is a seafood lover’s dream. Actually, it’s any appetizer lover’s dream. 

To make this mouthwatering recipe, you only need a handful of ingredients and a few kitchen tools.

The little bites of perfection come out of the oven steaming hot, waiting to be topped with more crunchy, fresh scallions. Once they have cooled for a few moments, they are ready to be devoured.

This bite-size, savory snack will be all the rage at family dinners and parties with the kids alike. They fit perfectly in the palms of hands and within a few bites, they are gone and your loved ones are asking for seconds.

Find more appetizer recipes that are simple and made to impress at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Easy Crab Rangoon

Servings: 12

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 12        wonton wrappers
• 4          ounces cream cheese, softened
• 4          ounces lump crabmeat
• 1          scallion, sliced thin, green and white parts separated
• 1          teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1          teaspoon soy sauce

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. Spray muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray. Press wonton wrappers into muffin cups. Lightly spray wrappers with nonstick cooking spray and bake until lightly browned, 6-9 minutes. Let cool slightly.
3. In medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Combine with crabmeat, scallion whites, ginger and soy sauce. Fill each wonton wrapper with filling. Bake until filling is heated through, 6-8 minutes.
4. Sprinkle with scallion greens. Serve warm.

(Family Features) With so many traditions and ways to celebrate the holiday season, the options are nearly endless for families looking to spend special moments together. One of the tastiest and most enjoyable activities you can engage in with family and friends is to team up and create sweet eats in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a chocolate lover or prefer traditional seasonal flavors like peppermint and gingerbread, these tasty, dairy-inspired treats from Milk Means More provide heartwarming ways to tingle your taste buds while bringing everyone together.

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding provides a sweet, fruity, hearty dessert while Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies combine chocolatey goodness with creamy cheesecake and peppermint. Or, for a classic holiday combination, you can turn to Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream.

Find more ways to celebrate the season with sweet eats at milkmeansmore.org.

Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Bates of “The Chef Next Door” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 16

• Nonstick cooking spray

Cheesecake Batter:

• 8          ounces low-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/3       cup granulated sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2          eggs
• 1          tablespoon all-purpose flour

Brownie Batter:

• 1          cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2       cup cocoa powder
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1          cup granulated sugar
• 1/4       cup vegetable oil
• 1/4       cup milk
• 2          eggs
• 1          teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Topping:

• 1/2       cup peppermint baking pieces

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Coat 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
2. To make cheesecake batter: Place cream cheese in bowl of stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and peppermint extract; beat well. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add flour and beat mixture until blended.
3. To make brownie batter: In medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder and salt until combined. In separate bowl, whisk sugar, oil, milk, eggs and vanilla until well combined. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until blended.
4. Pour brownie batter evenly into prepared pan. Carefully pour cheesecake batter over top, spreading evenly. Carefully swirl layers together using knife tip. Bake 20 minutes.
5. Sprinkle top of brownies with peppermint baking pieces and bake 10 minutes until brownies are set. Cool brownies completely in pan on wire rack before cutting into 16 squares.

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Recipe courtesy of Kirsten Kubert of “Comfortably Domestic” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 65 minutes
Servings: 12

Pudding:

• 1          loaf Texas toast or day-old bread
• 1-2       tablespoons softened butter
• 1 1/2    cups fresh cranberries
• 6          eggs
• 3/4       cup granulated sugar
• 3 1/2    cups 2% milk
• 1          teaspoon freshly grated orange zest
• 1/4       cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4       cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 1/2    teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/8       teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2    tablespoons coarse granulated sugar (optional)

Orange Custard Sauce:

• 3          egg yolks
• 1/4       cup granulated sugar
• 1          cup half-and-half
• 1/2       teaspoon freshly grated orange zest

1. To make pudding: Cut bread into bite-sized cubes. If bread is soft and fresh, place cubes on half sheet pan and let stand at room temperature overnight to dry out.
2. Preheat oven to 375 F.
3. Grease 13-by-9-by-2-inch baking dish with softened butter. Place bread cubes in prepared baking pan. Scatter cranberries over bread.
4. Beat eggs with sugar, milk, orange zest, orange juice, melted butter, vanilla and cinnamon until well blended. Pour evenly over bread and cranberries to coat. Sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. Bake 60-65 minutes, or until custard is set and edges of bread are browned.
5. To make orange custard sauce: In small saucepan, whisk egg yolks with sugar until lightened to pale yellow color, about 2 minutes. Stir half-and-half into mixture until combined. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, 15-20 minutes, or until sauce thickens enough to coat spoon. Stir orange zest into custard sauce.
6. Serve bread pudding with warm custard sauce over top.

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream

Recipe courtesy of Megan Gundy of “What Megan’s Making” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 20

Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2    cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2    tablespoons ground ginger
• 2          teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4       teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2       teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2    cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 1/2    cups granulated sugar
• 3          tablespoons molasses
• 4          large eggs
• 2          teaspoons vanilla extract

Whipped Vanilla Buttercream:

• 1          cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 2          teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4          cups powdered sugar
• 2-4       tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1          pinch salt
• cinnamon, for topping

1. Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and preheat oven to 350 F. Line muffin pan with cupcake liners. Set aside.
2. To make cupcakes: In medium bowl, whisk flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and salt.
3. In large bowl of stand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add molasses and beat until incorporated. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then beat in vanilla. Add flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake 30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center cupcake comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Let cupcakes cool 10 minutes then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
5. To make whipped vanilla buttercream: In large bowl of stand mixer, beat butter on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add vanilla and, with mixer on low, slowly add in powdered sugar, cream and salt, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. Once incorporated, whip frosting at least 3 minutes on medium-high or high speed. If frosting is too thick, gradually beat in additional cream. Pipe on top of cooled cupcakes and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan

(Family Features) The holiday season and all its celebrating often means full days of visiting family and friends, opening gifts and enjoying moments with loved ones, even if much of that interaction may take place virtually this year. With all the laughter and happiness, you’re bound to get hungry, and feeding the family throughout the day means you’ll need recipe ideas ready for the occasion.

Starting the big day with a bountiful breakfast helps begin the festivities on a high note, while appetizers help hold everyone over for the main course, sides and, of course, dessert. Consider these tasty dishes to take your holiday gatherings to new heights from morning to night.

Visit Culinary.net to find more holiday meal ideas.

One Terrific Turkey

Centering your holiday meal around a turkey cooked to golden perfection is the ideal way to serve a feast. Without the right preparation and execution, however, your bird could fall short. To ensure your holiday dinner centerpiece lives up to expectations, follow these simple tips, from purchase to plate:

1. Buy the right bird. Finding a turkey that’s just the right size for your expected party is the start to a successful gathering. One common rule of thumb is the buy 1 pound of turkey per person – so, for a 10-person meal, purchase a 10-pound turkey. Don’t forget that nearly everyone loves leftovers, so you may consider buying a few pounds more than necessary.

2. Be patient. If you opt for a frozen turkey, don’t rush the thawing process. For larger turkeys, it can take days to defrost properly.

3. Timing is everything. Finding the right amount of time for your turkey to spend in the oven is crucial but not always the easiest thing to do. For an 8-12-pound bird, aim for 2.5-3.5 hours; 12-16 pounds for 3.5-4 hours; 16-20 pounds for 4-4.5 hours, and so on. The key is bringing the turkey to a temperature reading of 170 F.

4. Let it rest. Instead of pulling the turkey out of the oven and immediately carving it, give it a chance to rest for 20-30 minutes, which allows the juices to soak into the meat and moisten it up.

An Easy and Cheesy Holiday Appetizer

If you need a last-minute appetizer or want to impress your friends, but don’t have the time to spend hours making something, consider this easy-to-make, easy-to-eat cheesy treat.

This Cheeseball recipe calls for a handful of common household ingredients like cream cheese, cheddar cheese, vegetables and Worcestershire sauce rolled together and chilled for a tasty dip served with crackers. For added flavor, it’s made using Buddig Beef, which has been feeding traditions for more than 75 years with its time-tested appetizer.

Find more holiday recipe ideas at buddig.com/recipes.

Cheeseball

Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 10

• 1          package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 2          cups (8 ounces) finely shredded cheddar cheese
• 1          can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained
• 2          tablespoons minced green onion
• 2          tablespoons minced red bell pepper
• 1          teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/8       teaspoon pepper
• 2          packages (4 ounces) Buddig Beef or Ham, chopped, divided
• 1          package assorted crackers

1. In large bowl of mixer on medium speed, beat cream cheese and cheddar cheese until creamy.
2. Mix in black olives, green onion, red bell pepper, Worcestershire sauce, pepper and 2 ounces chopped beef until well combined.
3. Form into ball. Wrap in plastic wrap.
4. Chill at least 2-3 hours to allow flavors to blend.
5. Just before serving, roll in remaining chopped beef until completely coated.
6. Serve with assorted crackers.

Call Together Loved Ones with Cookies

A true holiday celebration calls for sharing moments with loved ones and creating memories that can last a lifetime. Crafting a sweet dessert to cap off the festivities is a perfect way to come together in the kitchen and enjoy the moment with those who matter most.

These Gingerbread Cookies made with C&H sugar can be a hallmark holiday treat that allow kids to help in the process. Once they’re out of the oven, ask little ones to help decorate the festive and delightful cookies.

Visit chsugar.com to find recipes perfect for entertaining and celebrating with family throughout the year.

Gingerbread Cookies

Recipe courtesy of
Bernice Baran
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies

• 1/2       cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2       cup C&H® Dark Brown Sugar
• 1          large egg
• 1/4       cup molasses
• 1 3/4    cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2       teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8       teaspoon salt
• 1          teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2       teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4       teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8       teaspoon ground cloves
• royal icing

1. In large bowl of electric mixer fitted with paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar about 2 minutes on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add egg and molasses; mix until well incorporated.
2. In separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Use mixer on low speed to add to butter mixture until combined and dough is formed.
3. Divide dough in half, wrap with plastic film and refrigerate at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 350 F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Flour clean work surface. Roll dough 1/8-1/4 inches thick. Cut out shapes with desired cookie cutters.
6. Transfer cookies to lined baking sheets and bake 10-12 minutes, or until firm. Let cookies cool on baking sheets 2-3 minutes then transfer to cooling rack. Cool completely.
7. Decorate cookies with royal icing.

A Memorable Morning Breakfast

Holiday mornings are iconic for those moments spent together opening gifts, sharing stories and enjoying a meal. Skip the cereal and frozen foods for a spread like these Orange Eggs Benedict with a homemade hollandaise sauce.

With six servings, it’s perfect for a family breakfast to fill empty stomachs after a morning of gift-giving. Plus, kids can join in on the fun by helping make the hollandaise, which simply requires mixing a few ingredients before pouring over the completed dish.

Find more breakfast recipes at Culinary.net.

Orange Eggs Benedict

Serves: 6
Orange Hollandaise:

• 2          egg yolks
• 1          orange, juice only
• 1/2       teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2       cup unsalted butter, melted

• water
• 1          tablespoon white vinegar
• 8          eggs
• 1/2       cup butter, softened
• 6          French baguette slices, 3/4-inch thick each
• 6          thick slices ham
• 1/2       cup orange marmalade
• orange zest, for garnish

1. To make Orange Hollandaise: In small bowl, blend egg yolks, orange juice and salt until combined. Gradually add melted butter into egg mixture while blending. Set aside.
2. In skillet, add water halfway up sides. Add vinegar. Bring to simmer. Break eggs into water to poach. Cook 3-4 minutes until whites are cooked through and yolks are still runny. Using slotted spoon, remove eggs and drain on paper towels.
3. Spread butter on one side of bread slices. Place bread in skillet and cook until golden brown. Add ham to same skillet and cook until browned on both sides.
4. To assemble, spread bread slices with orange marmalade. Top each with one slice cooked ham and one poached egg. Pour hollandaise over eggs and garnish with orange zest.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Holiday table)

Buddig 
C&H

(Family Features) For many families, spending special moments with loved ones feels more important than ever this year. Whether you’re spending the holidays with family or inviting them for a virtual call from afar, you can plan ahead to enjoy the same dishes even without being at the same table.

Tap into family favorites like these seasonal sweets that include California Walnuts for rich, holiday-worthy flavor. Overnight Walnut French Toast with Cranberry Walnut Ginger Compote offers a tart-sweet combination perfect for a holiday brunch and allows you to prep the night before and simply pop in the oven when you wake up.

Drizzled with a chocolate-peppermint glaze and finished with walnuts and crushed peppermint candies, a Walnut Chocolate Peppermint Bundt Cake can provide the perfect finish to the festivities. The soft cake and crunchy walnuts contrast for an ultimate texture combination.

Find more sweet holiday recipes at walnuts.org.

Overnight Walnut French Toast with Cranberry Walnut Ginger Compote

Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Cranberry Walnut Ginger Compote:

• 1/2       cup California Walnuts
• 2          cups cranberries
• 1/2       cup orange juice
• 1/2       cup maple syrup
• 1/4       teaspoon ground ginger
• 1          orange, zest only

Overnight Walnut French Toast:

• 8          slices Texas Toast or 1-inch thick slices French bread
• 1/4       cup butter, melted, plus additional for baking dish, divided
• 2 1/2    cups milk or walnut milk
• 1/2       cup sugar
• 2          teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1          teaspoon cinnamon
• 6          eggs

1. To make Cranberry Walnut Ginger Compote: Preheat oven to 350 F. Place walnuts on baking sheet and toast 8 minutes. Remove from heat and chop coarsely.
2. In medium pot over medium heat, combine toasted walnuts, cranberries, orange juice, syrup, ginger and orange zest. Bring to boil and stir frequently 12-15 minutes until cranberries pop and liquid starts to reduce.
3. Transfer to container and refrigerate once cooled.
4. To make Overnight Walnut French Toast: Preheat oven to 350 F.
5. Place bread on baking sheet and bake 5 minutes, or until lightly toasted on outside but still soft on inside. Butter 13-by-9-inch baking dish.
6. In large bowl, whisk milk, sugar, 1/4 cup butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon and eggs. Dip each bread slice in mixture and let soak about 15 seconds on each side. Place in prepared baking dish, overlapping slices slightly, if necessary.
7. Cover and refrigerate a few hours or overnight.
8. Preheat oven to 350 F. Bake 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown and somewhat firm to touch. Serve immediately topped with Cranberry Walnut Ginger Compote.

Walnut Chocolate Peppermint Bundt Cake

Total time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Servings: 16

Cake:

• 1          cup butter, plus additional for greasing pan, divided
• 1/2       cup unsweetened cocoa powder, plus additional for dusting pan, divided
• 1          cup water
• 2 1/4    cups sugar
• 1          teaspoon peppermint extract
• 3          eggs
• 2          cups flour
• 3/4       teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2       cup buttermilk
• 1          cup California Walnut halves and pieces

Chocolate Peppermint Truffle Glaze:

• 1/3       cup dark chocolate chips
• 3          tablespoons butter
• 2          tablespoons milk
• 1/2       teaspoon peppermint extract

Toppings:

• 1/2       cup coarsely chopped California Walnuts
• 1/2       cup crushed peppermint candy

1. To make cake: Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly butter bundt pan then dust with cocoa powder. Turn pan, tapping, to coat on all sides; tap out excess.
2. In small saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup butter, 1/2 cup cocoa powder and water, whisking until smooth; let cool.
3. Transfer to bowl of mixer and lightly beat in sugar, peppermint extract and eggs.
4. In medium bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda. Add about 1/3 of dry ingredients to chocolate mixture and beat on low speed to combine. Add 1/4 cup buttermilk and beat again. Repeat steps ending with flour mixture, mixing only until combined. Fold in walnuts.
5. Spread in prepared pan and bake 50-60 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool then invert onto serving plate or platter.
6. To make Chocolate Peppermint Truffle Glaze: While cake bakes, melt chocolate chips, butter, milk and peppermint extract together until smooth. Let cool slightly to thicken then drizzle over cake. Top with walnuts and peppermint candies.

Source: California Walnuts

(Family Features) Whether this back-to-school season calls for at-home learning or heading back to the classroom, busy evenings are likely a constant for many families. One way to relieve stress and hit reset on hectic times is by enjoying a meal around the table with loved ones.

For an ethnic twist on mealtime, try these Chinese Style Bao Buns with Pickled Red Onions to add Far East flavor to the menu. One key ingredient: onions, which at just 45 calories per serving boost the flavor of the dish as a source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium and other key nutrients such as folate, calcium and iron.

Also known as nature’s ninja due to their many “skills,” onions can add abundant flavor to many dishes. They are also rich in heart-healthy nutrients and have been shown to help prevent some cancers.

Find more back-to-school meal ideas at onions-usa.org.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Chinese Style Bao Buns with Pickled Red Onions

Recipe courtesy of Aran Essig on behalf of the National Onion Association

Pickled Red Onions:

• 1          medium red onion
• 2/3       cup red wine vinegar
• 1 1/2    tablespoons sugar
• 1/2       tablespoon salt
• 1/4       cup red wine
• 2          cloves

Beef Bao Buns:

• 1          pound boneless beef ribs
• 1          tablespoon five-spice powder
• 2          teaspoons salt
• 1          teaspoon black pepper
• 4          cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 1/2    cups beef stock
• 1          cup hoisin sauce
• 1          tablespoon ginger, grated
• 12        bao buns (available in most Asian markets in freezer section)
• 3          green onions, cut on bias

1. To make pickled red onions: Slice onion in half then slice 1/4 inch. In saucepot, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, wine and cloves. Place onions in liquid. Simmer 3-4 minutes, swirling pan to ensure onions are exposed to hot mixture. Remove from heat and steep 15 minutes. Place in clean container in refrigerator at least 2 hours. Onions should be submerged in liquid.
2. To make beef bao buns: Heat oven to 350 F.
3. Rub beef with five-spice powder, salt and pepper. Heat saute pan and sear beef on all sides. Remove and place in baking dish. Add garlic to pan and saute briefly. Deglaze pan with beef stock and bring to simmer, scraping up caramelized bits stuck to bottom of pan. Add hoisin sauce and ginger to simmering stock. Pour stock over beef.
4. Cover baking dish with parchment and aluminum foil and bake 2 hours, or until beef can be pulled apart with fork.
5. Remove beef from stock and allow to cool slightly before shredding with fork.
6. Place remaining stock in saucepan over medium heat. Reduce by half, or until thickened so it can coat back of spoon.
7. Toss shredded beef with sauce.
8. Place beef between bao buns and garnish with pickled red onions and green onions. Serve while warm.

Source: National Onion Board

(Family Features) If you’re looking to spice up your mealtime routines, especially during those busy school nights, you may find your solution in versatile ingredients that work for a multitude of dishes.

For example, you can turn to plantains as a replacement for often-used recipe staples like potatoes. Plantains are a fruit grown around the world that cooks and eats more like a vegetable. Members of the banana family, they’re starchier and lower in sugar, meaning they’re still green when ripe.

While you’re most likely to find them baked, roasted or fried as a savory side dish at Latin, African or Caribbean restaurants, they’re growing in popularity in North America as stars of their own recipes or as nutritious, exotic swaps for starches. For example, these dishes from Dole for Plantain Crusted Salmon Fillets and Slow Cooker Sweet Potato, Plantain and Lentil Caribbean Curry offer quick ways to enjoy plantains while saving time in the kitchen.

As an additional benefit, plantains can be used at every stage of ripeness. They can be boiled like a potato when green; prepared in sauces and soups, air-fried or roasted as snacks when yellow; or baked in desserts and sweet recipes when black or spotted.

Find more ways to enjoy plantains and other fresh fruits and vegetables in family recipes at dole.com.

Plantain Crusted Salmon Fillets

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

•             Nonstick cooking spray
• 1/3       cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 1/2    tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2    tablespoons lime juice
• 1          tablespoon minced garlic
• 1          teaspoon cumin
• 4          salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin on
• 1/4       teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
• 1          DOLE® Plantain, green or half ripe
• 2          Dole Green Onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2       tablespoon grated lime peel

Preheat oven to 425 F. Line baking sheet with foil; spray with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Combine cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, garlic and cumin; set aside.

Arrange salmon fillets on prepared baking sheet. Season with salt, to taste. Spread about 1 tablespoon cilantro mixture on top of each salmon fillet to cover.

Using box grater, peel and grate plantain. Place grated plantain in bowl with green onions, lime peel and 1/4 teaspoon salt; toss to combine. Sprinkle about 1/4 cup plantain mixture on top of each salmon fillet, gently pressing to adhere. Spray plantain crust with nonstick cooking spray.

Bake 15 minutes, or until salmon is opaque and plantain crust is lightly browned.

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato, Plantain and Lentil Caribbean Curry

Prep time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1          tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons, grapeseed oil, divided
• 1          large DOLE® White Onion, chopped
• 4          cloves garlic, minced
• 2          teaspoons curry powder
• 1/2       teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2       teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1          can (15 ounces) reduced sodium chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2          large Dole Sweet Potatoes, chopped (about 4 cups)
• 2          medium Dole Plantains, chopped (about 3 cups)
• 4          cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1/2       cup red lentils
• 3          cups packed, chopped collard greens
• 1/4       cup roasted salted pepitas

1. In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 teaspoons oil; add onion and cook 3 minutes, or until softened, stirring occasionally. Add garlic, curry powder, cayenne pepper and ginger; cook 2 minutes, or until fragrant and starting to brown, stirring occasionally.
2. Transfer onion mixture to 3-4-quart slow cooker; add chickpeas, potatoes, plantains, broth and lentils. Cover and cook on high 4 hours or low 8 hours, or until potatoes and lentils are tender.
3. Stir in collard greens; cook 20 minutes, or until greens are tender. Serve garnished with pepitas.

Source: Dole

(Family Features) Taking care of your heart requires a commitment to the right routines and smart decisions, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Simple ingredients already in your kitchen may offer powerful protection to keep your heart healthy.

For example, more than a decade of research shows 100% orange juice and its vitamins and minerals may play a beneficial role in helping lower blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease.

A study published in the “European Journal of Nutrition” by researchers at Eurecat, Centre Tecnològic de Catalunya, in Reus, Spain provides further support for 100% orange juice’s role in heart health, and offers additional insight into a unique component in orange juice, called hesperidin, that may have antioxidant activity and contribute to orange juice’s cardiovascular benefits.

The study, which was funded by the Florida Department of Citrus, determined that adults with pre- or stage-1 hypertension who drank about 2 cups of 100% orange juice per day saw significant reductions in systolic blood pressure and other markers of heart health and inflammation.

“Nearly half of adults in the United States have high blood pressure,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, scientific research director at the Florida Department of Citrus. “For those with mild hypertension, including something as simple and pure as 100% orange juice in your daily healthy routine may help make significant improvements in such a prevalent problem.”

Beyond its heart health benefits, many studies, including a National Health & Nutrition Survey published in “Nutrition Journal,” have found that 100% orange juice consumption is associated with higher diet quality and increased levels of key nutrients, including many that are under-consumed, like potassium.

“The vitamin C, antioxidants and potassium found in 100% orange juice can help maintain a healthy blood pressure, which is a big factor in heart health,” said Kaleigh McMordie, RDN and founder of the blog “Lively Table.”

With no added sugar and no fat, cholesterol or sodium, Florida Orange Juice can help you take advantage of these nutritious benefits from breakfast to dinner with dishes like Poached Salmon with Collard Green Salad, an easy way to add potassium and vitamin C at the family table, especially when paired with an 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice. For those busy mornings on the go, an Orange Kale Smoothie can be the fuel you need as a filling option with less than five ingredients that’s an excellent source of vitamin C, folate and vitamin K and a good source of potassium and thiamin.

For more information on the heart health benefits of 100% orange juice, visit FloridaJuice.com.

Poached Salmon with Collard Green Salad

• 1 1/4    cups Florida Orange Juice, divided   
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1          pound salmon filets
• 1          cup white wine
• 2          cloves garlic, smashed
• 2          teaspoons finely grated fresh ginger, divided
• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 1          tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1          tablespoon finely minced shallot
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1          small bunch collard greens (about 8 ounces), stems and center ribs removed
• 1/2       cup toasted, slivered almonds

1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Spray small glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set salmon in dish.
2. In small saucepan over high heat, combine 1 cup 100% orange juice, white wine, garlic and 1 teaspoon grated ginger; bring to simmer.
3. Pour poaching liquid over salmon and cover with aluminum foil.
4. Poach in oven 15-20 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through.
5. In lidded jar, combine remaining 100% orange juice, remaining grated ginger, olive oil, vinegar and shallot; shake to combine. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Cut collard greens into thin ribbons and transfer to large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over collard greens; toss well to combine and fully coat.
7. Remove salmon from liquid and serve on top of collard greens. Sprinkle with almonds.
8. Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste, and serve.

Orange Kale Smoothie

Servings: 2

• 2          cups Florida Orange Juice
• 1/4       cup frozen pineapple
• 1          cup kale, tough stems removed
• 4          mint leaves

1. In large blender, blend 100% orange juice, frozen pineapple, kale and mint leaves until smooth.
2. Pour into tall glass.

Source: Florida Department of Citrus

(Family Features) A distinctive and unexpected ingredient like rice vinegar is an easy way to bring faraway flavors to your favorite summer dishes. This pantry staple adds an Asian-inspired flavor to recipes of all kinds, from marinades to high-end meals.

Explore a new way to enjoy steak this summer with a recipe for zesty, marinated beef paired with crisp broccolini and peppers to give a familiar dish a fresh makeover using flavors from another origin. Give fajitas an Asian makeover with shrimp seared in a decadent hoisin-ginger sauce or try a fresh take on a crunchy salad with this Mexican-meets-Asian layered approach that’s perfect for lunch.

Include seasonal produce like cucumbers, bell peppers and tomatoes to enhance your summer flavor fusions. Pantry staples like black beans and canned corn also offer accessible ways to make elevated summer classics.

Capture Asian flavors with ingredients like NAKANO Rice Vinegar, which has perfected its rice vinegars over eight generations to offer unique and delicious flavors perfect for making mouthwatering Asian-inspired recipes at home.

Pro Flavor-Fusion Tips

• The key to a successful stir-fry is to use high heat to quickly cook meats and vegetables in stages without overcrowding the pan. This ensures that veggies stay slightly crisp, and meats develop a delicious sear instead of steaming.

• Avocado oil has one of the highest smoke points, making it a great choice for high-heat cooking like stir-frying.

• Hoisin sauce, which you can find in the Asian section of most grocery stores, is used frequently in Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a salty, fermented soybean paste often combined with garlic, chiles and five-spice powder, which adds a sweet, umami-rich, aromatic flavor to the dish.

• Shishito peppers are slender, mild, green Japanese peppers available in the produce section of well-stocked grocery stores or Asian markets. If shishito peppers are unavailable, substitute with multicolored mini peppers.

• To accommodate those who love a lot of spice and those who prefer less spice, serve mild-to-medium-spicy foods with additional chili sauce on the side.

• Swap out heavy, high-calorie salad dressings for a splash of additional flavor with NAKANO rice vinegar.

Find more flavorful ways to put an Asian twist on your summer dishes at nakanoflavors.com.

Sizzling Shrimp Fajita Stir-Fry

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1 1/2    pounds large, raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (21-25 shrimp total)
• 2          tablespoons soy sauce, divided
• 4          teaspoons cornstarch, divided
• 1/4       cup NAKANO Roasted Garlic Rice Vinegar
• 3          tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2          teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• 3          tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1          red onion, cut into thin slivers
• 1          red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
• 1/2       pound shishito peppers, stemmed
• 6          warmed corn or flour tortillas
• 1/2       cup finely shredded red cabbage
• 1/4       cup thinly sliced green onions

1. In medium bowl, combine shrimp, 2 teaspoons soy sauce and 2 teaspoons cornstarch; let stand 5 minutes to marinate.
2. In separate bowl, whisk remaining soy sauce, remaining cornstarch, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce and ginger until blended.
3. In large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil until shimmering. Add half of shrimp; cook 1 minute on each side. Transfer to clean bowl; repeat with remaining shrimp. Wipe out skillet with paper towel.
4. In same pan, heat remaining oil until shimmering. Add red onion, bell pepper and shishito peppers. Cook, stirring, 2-4 minutes until peppers begin to blister. Add vinegar mixture; cook, stirring, 1-2 minutes, or until sauce is slightly thickened. Add shrimp to pan. Cook, tossing well until shrimp and vegetables are coated with sauce.
5. Fill tortillas with shrimp mixture, cabbage and green onions.

Spicy Steak and Broccoli

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1          beef tenderloin (1 1/2 pounds), cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1          tablespoon soy sauce
• 1          tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2       teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 3          tablespoons avocado oil, divided
• 2          cups multicolored, mini sweet peppers, cut into thin rings
• 1/4       pound broccolini, cut into 3-inch sections
• 2          large shallots, chopped
• 1/4       cup NAKANO Seasoned Rice Vinegar
• 1          tablespoon sugar
• 1          teaspoon sambal oelek (Asian-chili garlic sauce) or sriracha
• 1/4       teaspoon kosher salt
• 2          teaspoons grated fresh ginger

1. In medium bowl, combine beef, soy sauce, cornstarch, black pepper and garlic powder.
2. In large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add peppers, broccolini and shallots; cook 3 minutes, or until tender crisp. Transfer to clean bowl.
3. In same skillet over high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil until shimmering. Add half of beef in single layer. Cook undisturbed 2 minutes, or until bottoms are browned. Stir. Cook 1 minute, or until outer surfaces are no longer pink. Transfer to bowl with vegetables. Repeat with remaining oil and beef. Return beef and vegetables to skillet over medium-high heat.
4. In small bowl, combine rice vinegar, sugar, sambal oelek, salt and ginger. Add mixture to pan. Cook 2 minutes, or until sauce is slightly thickened.

Glass Jar Layered Taco Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1/2       avocado
• 1/4       teaspoon serrano pepper
• 1          tablespoon cilantro
• 2          tablespoons NAKANO Organic Seasoned Rice Vinegar
• 2          tablespoons sesame oil
• 1          teaspoon lime juice
• 1/3       teaspoon salt
• 1/2       cup corn
• 1/2       cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1/2       cup jicama, diced
• 1/2       cup black beans, rinsed
• 1/2       cup shredded green cabbage
• 1/2       cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2       cup extra-firm tofu, diced
• 1/2       cup corn chips, crushed
• 1/2       cup spinach
• 1          tablespoon queso fresco

1. In bowl, mash avocado and add serrano pepper, cilantro, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice and salt. Stir to combine.
2. Build salad in layers of corn, cabbage, jicama, black beans, cabbage, tomatoes, tofu, corn chips, spinach and queso fresco while adding drizzles of dressing between layers.

Source: NAKANO

(Family Features) From backyard barbecues and family picnics to a bright addition to seasonal recipes, sweet cherries not only provide a boost of flavor but also pack a punch when it comes to nutrition, helping keep you and your family healthy during busy summer months.

Cherries can help reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure as well as relieve stress and gout, and can improve sleep quality.

The perfect time to take advantage of the goodness of Northwest-grown sweet cherries is through August. Eat fresh cherries straight out of hand as a snack, bake them into a pie or pair with ice cream for a sweet summertime treat.

The rich fruitiness of sweet cherries helps blunt the sharp edge of dried fruit in a quick and easy Cherry Sauce recipe. Low in sugar and versatile, this sauce can be used as a base ingredient for cocktails, a glaze for meats, a spread for sandwiches, a topping for yogurt and more. Add some ginger or orange peel to complement your menu and you may have a new, nutritious summer favorite. Or, for a sweet, simple snack, use cherries to make an appetizer like Cherry Bruschetta.

Find more recipes and ways to use cherries at nwcherries.com.

Cherry Sauce

Servings: 16

• 3/4       cup water
• 3/4       cup maple syrup
• 4          cups fresh Northwest-grown sweet cherries
• 4          cups dried cranberries
• 4          peels (2 inches each) fresh ginger (optional)
• 3          tablespoons citrus zest (optional)
• black pepper (optional)
• fresh herbs (optional)
• raspberries (optional)

1. In medium saucepot, add water, syrup and sweet cherries. Bring to simmer, stirring occasionally and more frequently as sauce begins to form.
2. Add cranberries; continue stirring. Once reduced, remove from heat and add fresh ginger, citrus zest, black pepper, fresh herbs and raspberries, if desired.
3. Cool 30 minutes-1 hour before transferring to wider, shallow pan for speed cooling.
4. Once cooled, store refrigerated in airtight container up to 2 weeks.

Cherry Bruschetta

Servings: 6

• 18        slices (1/2-inch thick) small baguette-style bread
• 1          tablespoon olive oil, divided
• 1 1/2    cups pitted Northwest fresh sweet cherries, coarsely chopped
• 1/4       cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4       cup diced yellow sweet pepper
• 2          tablespoons finely chopped green onions
• 2          tablespoons lime juice
• 1          teaspoon grated lime peel
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/4       teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2          ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
• 1          tablespoon thinly sliced fresh basil

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. Arrange baguette slices on cookie sheet and toast one side 5 minutes. Turn slices, brush with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and bake 5 minutes.
3. Combine cherries, cilantro, sweet pepper, green onions, lime juice, lime peel, garlic salt, pepper and remaining olive oil; mix well.
4. Top each baguette with thin slice cheese, 1 tablespoon cherry mixture and sprinkle of basil. Serve warm or cold.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Cherry Sauce)
Photo courtesy of Northwest Cherry Growers (Cherry Bruschetta)

Source: Northwest Cherry Growers

(Family Features) Make Father's Day special by combining two of Dad's favorite things - sweet treats and the grill. Hot dogs have gone gourmet and a big, juicy hamburger or steak is a tried-and-true classic. But, this year, show Dad how much you love him with a healthy twist on two American favorites - the chicken wing and watermelon.

If Dad is usually the one manning the grill, review these simple tips for cooking chicken outdoors before you begin:

• Preheat the grill on high.
• Make sure the grate is well oiled to prevent sticking.
• Transport the chicken to the grill on one plate and use a clean plate to take the prepared food back to the kitchen.
• Use tongs to turn the chicken instead of a fork, which may tear the meat.
• Keep the grill covered as much as possible for quicker, more even cooking.
• Have a spray bottle filled with water handy in case of a flare up.
• Once you remove the chicken from the grill, allow it to "rest" for five minutes so it will retain its juices when cut.

Get the kids involved in the meal preparation by creating a fun dessert. They can use a small ice cream scoop or melon baller to scoop out watermelon, cantaloupe or honeydew. Serve the cool, refreshing treat in a pretty bowl or thread the melon balls onto skewers. Slices of watermelon can also be cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters. Add the shapes to the plate for a fun garnish or place one or two on the rim of a glass to add a festive flair.

Grilling out is a time-honored tradition so fire up the charcoal and let the celebration begin.

Look for more fun ways to enjoy watermelon and sign up for a free newsletter, at www.watermelon.org.

Chipotle Maple Citrus Watermelon Wings

Watermelon Glaze:

• 2 cups watermelon puree
• Juice from 3 fresh lemons
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup maple syrup (can use light version)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper, or to taste

Chicken:

• Chicken wings or drumettes
• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 3 cloves minced fresh garlic

1. To prepare the watermelon glaze, simmer ingredients together in a heavy saucepan for 20 minutes or until sauce is thick. Makes 2 cups. Keep warm.
2. To prepare the chicken, place the chicken in a large zipper lock bag with rest of the ingredients and seal tightly. Allow to marinate at least 2 hours or up to 12. Grill until cooked and arrange on a warm platter. Pour the glaze over the chicken and serve immediately.

Source: National Watermelon Promotion Board