When you are hungry and searching for something filling, juicy and rich, turning to your pantry for on-hand ingredients can make dinner a breeze. Dodge snack cravings and avoid the temptation to swing by the drive-thru; instead, you can have a homemade meal ready in a matter of minutes by putting your skillet to work.

Call your loved ones to the dining room to share time together while trying these Smothered Pork Chops in Mushroom Sauce. It’s a dish the entire family can dig into without questioning the substance of the meal as it’s a filling option that requires just a few ingredients you likely already have at home.

It all starts with the pork chops, which are thick and seared to perfection. The mushroom sauce is a beautiful blend of earthy and creamy textures. Bring it to a simmer then smother your pork chops and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

The best part is this recipe doesn’t take much time to accomplish. The pork chops are seared for 3-5 minutes per side then simmered in the mushroom sauce for another 2-3 minutes until thoroughly cooked.

Don’t waste time with complicated recipes, dirtying an array of kitchen utensils and multiple trips to the store for ingredients you may not use again. This recipe requires one bowl and a single skillet. Cleanup is a breeze, which means there is more time to spend around the table with those who mean the most.

Find more savory recipes at Culinary.net.

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

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Smothered Pork Chops in Mushroom Sauce

Servings: 4

• 1          teaspoon mild chili powder
• 1          teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon pepper
• 4          pork chops
• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 2          tablespoons butter

Mushroom Sauce:

• 2 1/2    cups brown mushrooms, sliced
• 5          garlic cloves, smashed
• 1          tablespoon parsley
• 1          teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2       cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2    cups heavy cream
• fresh parsley, for garnish

1. In small bowl, whisk chili powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper until combined.
2. Pat pork chops dry. Season generously with spice mix. Set aside.
3. In skillet, add olive oil and butter. Add pork chops; sear 3-5 minutes per side. Transfer to plate.
4. To make mushroom sauce: In same skillet, add mushrooms. Stir fry until golden brown. Add garlic, parsley and Italian seasoning. Stir fry 2 minutes. Add broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine. Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Return pork chops to sauce. Simmer 2-3 minutes until pork chops are cooked through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

(Culinary.net) The same old brunch menu week after week can become tiresome and dull. It’s bland, boring and your tastebuds get used to the same flavors repeatedly.

It’s time to add something new to the table with fresh ingredients and simple instructions to enhance your weekend spread.

Try this recipe for an Easy Brunch Quiche that is sure to have your senses swirling with every bite. This quiche is layered with many tastes and a variety of ingredients to give it crave-worthy flavor.

To create this dish, start with one package of broccoli and cheese then microwave it for 5 minutes until heated through.

Add 12 slices of chopped bacon to a skillet. While cooking, add 1/2 cup of green onions. Cook for 2 minutes then add 1 cup of mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 4 minutes and drain the grease.

In a small mixing bowl, combine four eggs and 1 cup of milk. Whisk together. Add egg mixture to the broccoli and cheese. Also add 1 cup of shredded cheese and stir the ingredients together.

In two separate pie shells, spoon in the bacon mixture then pour the egg and broccoli mixtures over the top. Sprinkle with a little more cheese then bake for 35-45 minutes at 350 F.

With a range of ingredients from broccoli to bacon, this quiche is a brunch hero. While baking, the cheese gets all melty, and with every bite the mushrooms add texture and earthy flavor. The ingredients combine together to make something warm, hearty and fresh.

Find more brunch recipes and cooking ideas at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Easy Brunch Quiche

Serves: 12

• 1          package (10 ounces) frozen broccoli with cheese
• 12        slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2       cup green onions, sliced
• 1          cup mushrooms, sliced
• 4          eggs
• 1          cup milk
• 1 1/2    cups shredded cheese, divided
• 2          frozen deep dish pie shells (9 inches each)

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. In medium bowl, add broccoli and cheese contents from package. Microwave 5 minutes, or until cheese is saucy. Set aside.
3. In skillet, cook chopped bacon 4 minutes. Add green onions; cook 2 minutes. Add mushrooms; cook 4 minutes, or until bacon is completely cooked and mushrooms are tender. Drain onto paper towel over plate. Set aside.
4. In medium bowl, whisk eggs and milk until combined. Add broccoli and cheese mixture. Add 1 cup cheese. Stir to combine. Set aside.
5. In pie shells, divide drained bacon mixture evenly. Divide broccoli mixture evenly and pour over bacon mixture. Sprinkle remaining cheese over both pies.
6. Bake 40 minutes.
7. Allow to cool at least 12 minutes before serving.

Note: To keep edges of crust from burning, place aluminum foil over pies for first 20 minutes of cook time. Remove after 20 minutes and allow to cook uncovered until completed.

From tasty small bites to a filling feast and even dessert for breakfast, brunch options are nearly endless. Take your spring brunch to the next level with recipes that appease appetites of all kinds.

First, start with portioned pastry cups perfect for appetizers. Bring out the protein-packed breakfast burritos for the main course then, for a final touch of sweet deliciousness, offer up lemony doughnuts to cap off the feast.

Find more brunch recipes at Culinary.net.

Bite-Sized Breakfast

Appetizer-sized portions and small bites of all sorts are ideal for breakfast spreads, and these Pastry Brunch Cups are perfect for starting a morning meal with loved ones. Or, if a busy schedule looms, try baking a batch and separating into appropriate serving sizes for a simple way to meal prep heading into a new week.

Find more breakfast recipes at Culinary.net.

Pastry Brunch Cups

Servings: 18

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 sheets puff pastry
• 18 eggs
• 2 cups diced ham
• chopped fresh green onions

Heat oven 375 F.

1. In small saucepan, melt butter. Whisk flour with butter. Gradually pour in milk, whisking each time. Bring to simmer, whisking until mixture starts to thicken. Remove from heat; stir in Swiss cheese. Set aside.
2. Use rolling pin to thin out puff pastries. Cut each into nine squares. Line pastry squares in muffin cups, pressing bottoms down firmly and moving pastries up sides for edges to come up just over muffin tins. Fill each cup with 1 teaspoon cheese sauce. Crack one egg into each cup and sprinkle each with diced ham.
3. Bake 10-15 minutes until eggs set. Sprinkle with chopped green onions.

Power Brunch with a Protein-Packed Burrito

A well-rounded brunch calls for a multitude of dishes and beverages, but it wouldn’t be complete without a protein-packed recipe to get the day started.

This delicious Breakfast Burrito is loaded with colorful veggies and Silver Fern Farms 100% grass-fed strip steak. Hailing from New Zealand, home to some of the world’s most natural tasting beef and lamb, this premium cut of beef is aged 21 days and minimally processed with no added growth hormones or antibiotics. The animals are grass-fed year-round and allowed to roam and graze freely, so the beef offers a lean, flavorful texture that tastes just as nature intended.

Visit silverfernfarms.com to find more at-home brunch inspiration.

Breakfast Burrito

• 1 Silver Fern Farms New Zealand 100% Grass-Fed New York Strip Steak (10 ounces)
• oil
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced lengthwise
• 4 large mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2-1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tomato, finely chopped
• 8 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 large tortillas
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 1/2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• 1 avocado
• lime wedges (optional)
• hot sauce (optional)

1. Remove steak from packaging and set aside 10 minutes. Once steak reaches room temperature, heat pan over medium-high heat.
2. Rub steak with oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
3. Cook until medium-rare, approximately 3-4 minutes each side. Remove from pan and cover loosely with tinfoil to rest 5 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add splash of oil. Add onion; cook 1 minute. Add red bell pepper and mushrooms; cook 1 minute.
5. Add cumin, paprika and chili powder; stir through.
6. When veggies are tender (about 2 minutes), add tomato and cook until soft. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
7. In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and salt and pepper, to taste.
8. Heat pan to medium heat and add splash of oil.
9. Pour egg mixture into pan and cook, lifting and folding eggs until thickened and no visible liquid egg remains. Do not stir constantly.
10. Lay tortillas on flat surface or plate.
11. In center of tortilla, add cooked veggies and top with thinly sliced beef. Add handful of spinach, scrambled eggs, crumbled feta, cilantro and avocado. Fold bottom of tortilla and roll.
12. Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce, if desired.

Dine on Deliciously Sweet Doughnuts

Brunch is never complete without something sweet to cap off the morning feast, and doughnuts are often the perfect complement to an array of main courses.

These Lemon Ricotta Doughnuts pair the bite-sized morsels with lemon curd (if that suits your style) for a sweet-tart combination. They’re made using Domino Golden Sugar, which is made from pure cane sugar and is less processed than white granulated sugar, as one you can always trust in your favorite recipes. It works cup-for-cup just like white sugar but with a golden color and distinct hint of molasses flavor.

Visit dominosugar.com to find recipes perfect for entertaining and celebrating throughout the year.

Lemon Ricotta Doughnuts

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 7 minutes

Doughnuts:

• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups Domino Golden Sugar, divided
• 2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 5 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Lemon Curd (optional):

• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups Domino Golden Sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 4 lemons, zest and juice only
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

1. To make doughnuts: In large saucepan, preheat oil to 350 F. Prepare cookie sheet with paper towel to drain doughnuts once out of hot oil.
2. In bowl, mix flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder and salt. Add lemon zest, eggs, ricotta cheese and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
3. Use ice cream scoop to scoop small amounts dough into oil, 4-5 pieces at a time. Fry each batch until golden brown, about 7 minutes. Keep oil at or near 350 F; if oil is too hot, doughnuts will turn golden brown but centers may still be raw. Remove from oil and drain in paper towel. Repeat with remaining dough.
4. While still hot, toss doughnuts with remaining sugar.
5. To make lemon curd, if desired: In large bowl of stand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and egg yolks, one at a time. Add lemon zest, lemon juice and salt.
6. Transfer mixture to saucepan and cook at low-medium heat until thick and creamy, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool before serving with doughnuts.

Source: Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Domino Golden Sugar

(Family Features) Making sure your family members get a nutritious start to the day is an important job, and by focusing on a few wholesome ingredients, such as real milk, simple and healthful dishes can quickly become family favorites.

Each day should begin with a balanced breakfast, so when mornings get hectic and meal prepping isn’t possible, you can still start strong with a convenient, iconic pairing – cereal and real milk. Enjoyable on their own, real milk and General Mills Big G Cereals, like Honey Nut Cheerios, are even better together, delivering essential nutrients to help fuel the morning with the taste kids – and adults – can call a daily favorite.

In fact, dairy milk is the top food source of calcium, vitamin D and potassium, and cereal is the top food source of fiber – which are four nutrients of public health concern identified by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This nutritious breakfast combination costs only around 50 cents per serving – so parents can give their children nutrients they need without breaking the bank.

Another delicious breakfast option is a Cheesy Bacon-Broccoli Quiche, which offers 11 grams of protein per serving while introducing picky eaters to veggies in an appetizing way. If a busy schedule calls for an on-the-go option, real milk provides essential nutrients and can be blended into a Banana Breakfast Shake for a tasty and portable way to start the day.

About 90% of the U.S. population does not meet dairy recommendations outlined in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Most individuals would benefit by increasing intake of nutrient-dense, calcium-rich dairy milk. One 8-ounce glass of dairy milk contains almost as much calcium as six cups of kale and the same amount of protein found in 1 1/2 medium eggs, making real milk an easy and delicious way for your little ones to get important nutrients they need.

Visit milklife.com for more health-focused, simple and delicious family meal inspiration.

Cheesy Bacon-Broccoli Quiche

Servings: 6

• 1          package (10 ounces) frozen broccoli with cheese sauce
• 3          slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 1/2       cup white mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2       cup green onions, chopped
• 1          frozen prepared pie shell (9 inches)
• 4          eggs
• 1          cup fat free or low fat dairy milk
• 1/2       cup cheddar cheese, shredded

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In microwave, prepare broccoli and cheese sauce according to package directions; set aside to cool slightly.
3. In nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook bacon, mushrooms and green onions until bacon is cooked through and mushrooms are tender. Scatter bacon mixture in bottom of pie shell; place pie shell on baking sheet.
4. In bowl, whisk eggs and dairy milk then stir in broccoli and cheese sauce along with cheddar cheese. Pour custard into pie shell and bake 35-45 minutes, or until center is just set and knife blade comes out clean when inserted into center of quiche.
5. Let cool at least 10 minutes before cutting into wedges and serving.

Nutritional information per serving: 280 calories; 16 g fat; 6 g saturated fat; 160 mg cholesterol; 11 g protein; 22 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 510 mg sodium; 150 mg calcium. Nutrition figures based on using fat free milk.

Banana Breakfast Shake

Servings: 2 (6 ounces milk per serving)

• 1 1/2    cups fat free or low fat dairy milk
• 1          frozen medium banana, peeled and sliced
• 1/2       teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/4       teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• cinnamon, for garnish (optional)

1. In blender container, combine dairy milk, banana, vanilla extract and almond extract. Blend until smooth, about 20 seconds.
2. Pour into two glasses and garnish with sprinkle of ground cinnamon, if desired.

Nutritional information per serving: 120 calories; 0 g fat; 0 g saturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 7 g protein; 23 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 100 mg sodium; 190 mg calcium. Nutrition figures based on using fat free milk.

 Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Source: MilkPEP

(Family Features) Part of the fun of family meals is finding inspiration in the variety of dinner ideas you can create together. From a tangy twist on traditional tacos to a favorite to-go flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen, the options are nearly endless when you use versatile, ready-to-use ingredients.

When you include protein that’s prepared, seasoned and precooked, you can cut down on time in the kitchen, while adding precious seconds to spend with loved ones. For example, Chef’s Craft® Gourmet Chicken offers a line of gluten-free, preservative-free, all-natural chicken skillfully crafted by experts and perfectly suited for culinary creations. The varieties are always fresh and perfect for preparing in 30 minutes or less. They can be enjoyed on their own or in an array of family dishes.

Consider these Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos to call loved ones to the table with chunks of tender chicken piled high with homemade spicy vinegar slaw, fried onions and avocado drizzled with barbecue sauce and ranch dressing.

Or, for a taste of takeout you can make in your own home, turn to Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry. If you don’t own a wok, don’t fret – this dish can easily be made in a skillet. Just be sure to give the veggies enough room as a crowded skillet is likely to result in steamed veggies.

Find more quick, convenient family meal ideas, as well as a store locator, at chefscraftgourmet.com.

Barbecue Ranch Breaded Chicken Tacos

Servings: 4

Spicy Vinegar Slaw:

• 2 1/2    cups shredded purple cabbage
• 1/2       cup shredded carrot
• 2          jalapenos, thinly sliced
• 1 1/2    tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
• 2          tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1          teaspoon sugar
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper

Fried Onions:

• canola or vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2       cup all-purpose flour
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1          yellow or Vidalia onion, cut into 1/4-inch slices

• 8          taco-sized flour tortillas, warmed
• 1          package Chef’s Craft® Breaded Chicken Chunks, cooked according to package directions
• spicy vinegar slaw
• 1          avocado, chopped
• fried onions
• 1/2       cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2       cup ranch dressing
• chopped cilantro (optional)

1. To make spicy vinegar slaw: In medium mixing bowl, combine cabbage, carrot and jalapenos.
2. In separate small bowl, whisk oil, vinegar and sugar; season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Drizzle over coleslaw mix and stir to combine. Let sit at least 10 minutes before serving.
4. To make fried onions: In small skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 inch oil.
5. In small bowl, season flour well with salt and pepper. Coat onion slices in flour mixture and shake to remove excess flour.
6. Fry in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 30-45 seconds per batch. Remove to paper towel-lined plate and immediately sprinkle with salt.
7. Top each tortilla with cooked breaded chicken chunks, spicy vinegar slaw, chopped avocado, fried onions, barbecue sauce and ranch dressing. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.

Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4

Honey Soy Glaze:

• 1/2       cup chicken broth
• 1/2       cup soy sauce
• 6          tablespoons honey
• 1/2       teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2       teaspoon dried ground ginger
• 4          teaspoons cornstarch
• 3          teaspoons water

• 2          tablespoons canola or vegetable oil
• 1          large yellow onion, sliced
• 3          bell peppers, sliced
• 1          large zucchini, sliced
• 4          ounces snow peas
• 10        ounces sliced mushrooms
• 2-3       cups broccoli florets, steamed to tender crisp
• 1          package Chef’s Craft® Chicken Breast Fillets, cooked according to package directions, sliced
• sesame seeds, for garnish

1. To make honey soy glaze: In small saucepan over medium heat, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, garlic and ginger. Bring to simmer.  In small bowl, combine cornstarch and water; stir into honey soy sauce and let cook approximately 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
2. In large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onion, pepper and zucchini; cook 2-3 minutes. Add snow peas and mushrooms; cook 2 minutes until vegetables are crisp tender but maintain texture. 
3. Add broccoli and chicken to pan; stir all but 3 tablespoons sauce; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Drizzle with remaining sauce and garnish with sesame seeds.

Source: Wayne Farms

(Family Features) Between the time it takes to plan healthy meals and the actual minutes spent in the kitchen, it can be easy for some families to let nutrition fall by the wayside. However, all it takes is a little twist on your loved ones’ favorite meals to free up those valuable moments while taking health into account.

These Sheet Pan Mushroom Fajitas, for example, offer a meatless version of an ethnic meal many families love. Gather fresh onions and bell peppers to mix with earthy, wholesome mushrooms as the heart of this plant-forward dish. Slice, season with taco seasoning, toss with vegetable oil and bake for less than half an hour for a family dinner that’s as simple as it is flavorful. Plus, you can garnish the fajitas with any combination of avocado and lime to salsa or hot sauce for a perfectly customizable taste.

Find more ways to add mushrooms to the menu at mushroomcouncil.com.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Sheet Pan Mushroom Fajitas

Total time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 fajitas

• 2          large portobello mushroom caps, sliced into 1/4-inch strips
• 2          medium yellow onions, sliced into 1/4-inch strips
• 2          large red bell peppers, sliced into 1/4-inch strips
• 2          tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 1/4    teaspoons taco seasoning
• 6          flour tortillas (6 inches), warmed
• 1/4       cup roughly chopped cilantro
• avocado (optional)
• salsa (optional)
• hot sauce (optional)
• lime (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Line large 18-by-13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In large bowl, toss mushrooms, onions and peppers with oil and taco seasoning. Distribute on baking sheet. Roast 25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until veggies are fork tender and edges are slightly browned.
3. Serve with warmed tortillas and garnish with cilantro. Top with avocado, salsa, hot sauce or lime, if desired.

Source:  Mushroom Council

(Family Features) If feeding your family wholesome meals is a daily goal, keep in mind you can serve up tasty foods that also feed your immune system by including ingredients like mushrooms. With their earthy flavor, mushrooms – like many other fruits and vegetables – can also play a positive role in supporting a healthy immune system.

Studies at Oregon State University concluded there are a variety of micronutrients important for supporting a healthy immune system. Consider that three of these nutrients (vitamin D, selenium and B vitamins) can be found in mushrooms, meaning these family-friendly recipes for Roasted Chicken Thighs and Veggies with Mushroom Orzo Risotto; Grilled Portobello Gyros with Yogurt Dill Sauce; Creamy Spinach, Mushroom and Lasagna Soup; and Asian Barbecue Sesame Salmon with Noodles and Veggies can help you add all-important nutrients to your family’s menu.

Find more ways to add mushrooms to family meals at mushroomcouncil.com.

Grilled Portobello Gyros with Yogurt Dill Sauce

Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice”
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

• 4          portobello mushrooms
• 1          tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2       teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4       teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2          yellow bell peppers, sliced

Yogurt Dill Sauce:

• 1          English cucumber, grated
• 1          cup whole-milk

Greek yogurt

• 1/2       cup sour cream
• 2          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2       small lemon, juice only
• 2          cloves garlic, minced
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 1          tablespoon minced fresh dill
• 4          pita breads or naan
• 2          tomatoes, thinly sliced
• 1/2       red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2       head green lettuce
• crumbled feta cheese (optional)

1. Remove stems from mushrooms and brush caps with wet towel. Using spoon, carefully scrape out gills. Slice mushrooms into 1/4-inch pieces and place in medium bowl with olive oil, oregano and smoked paprika.
2. Preheat indoor grill pan over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and peppers; grill, tossing occasionally, until tender, 5-7 minutes.
3. To make yogurt dill sauce: Squeeze grated cucumber in clean towel to remove excess liquid. Add to large bowl with yogurt, sour cream, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt and dill. Stir to combine.
4. To serve, place mushrooms and peppers in middle of pita bread. Top with tomatoes, onion, lettuce, feta, if desired, and big dollop of yogurt dill sauce.

Creamy Spinach, Mushroom and Lasagna Soup

Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice”
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2          cloves garlic, minced
• 1          medium onion, small diced
• 8          ounces crimini mushrooms, sliced
• 1          jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1          can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2          tablespoons tomato paste
• 2          teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 1          teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1          tablespoon dried basil
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1          teaspoon oregano
• 1/2       teaspoon black pepper
• 1          bay leaf
• 3          cups vegetable broth
• 6          lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
• 1/2       cup heavy cream
• 5          ounces fresh baby spinach
• 1          cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 1/2       cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping

1. Heat large pot over medium heat.
2. Add olive oil, garlic, onion and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions and mushrooms soften, 4-5 minutes.
3. Add marinara, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, basil, salt, oregano, pepper, bay leaf and broth. Bring to boil over high heat then reduce heat to low and simmer.
4. Add lasagna noodles and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and remove bay leaf.
5. Stir in heavy cream and spinach until wilted, 2-3 minutes.
6. Divide between bowls and top with dollop of ricotta and sprinkle of mozzarella.

Roasted Chicken Thighs and Veggies with Mushroom Orzo Risotto

Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice”
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour, 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Chicken:

• 8          boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 6          tablespoons unsalted butter
• 16        ounces crimini mushrooms, quartered
• 3          zucchini, sliced in half moons
• 3          large carrots, thinly sliced
• 4          sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves removed and roughly chopped
• 4          cloves garlic, minced

Orzo:

• 4          cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1          tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1          tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1          small yellow onion, diced
• 2          garlic cloves, minced
• 16        ounces crimini mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1          cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1/8       teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3       cup white wine
• 1/3       cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1. To make chicken: Preheat oven to 450 F.
2. Pat chicken dry. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. In large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Sear chicken until browned, 4-5 minutes on each side.
3. In large bowl, toss mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, garlic and rosemary. On large baking sheet, spread vegetables. Nestle chicken into vegetables. Drizzle with butter and juices from pan.
4. Bake 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. To make orzo: In small pot over medium-low heat, warm broth.
6. Using skillet from chicken, add butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions soften, 3-4 minutes.
7. Add orzo and black pepper. Stir and cook 2 minutes. Add white wine and cook until evaporated, about 1 minute.
8. Add warm broth to orzo 2/3 cup at a time, stirring until liquid is absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth, waiting until last batch is absorbed before adding more. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan.
9. Serve in individual bowls with chicken and roasted vegetables atop mushroom orzo risotto.

Asian Barbecue Sesame Salmon with Noodles and Veggies

Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice”
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Sauce:

• 1/2       cup soy sauce
• 2          tablespoons brown sugar
• 1          tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2          cloves garlic, minced
• 1          teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1          teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional)
• 1          tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 2          tablespoons barbecue sauce
• 2          tablespoons water
• 2          teaspoons cornstarch

• 1 1/2    pounds salmon (4 filets)
• 12        ounces stir-fry (pad thai) rice noodles
• 1          tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1          pound white mushrooms, sliced
• 1          cup sugar snap peas
• 1          large broccoli head, cut into bite-size florets
• 2-3       green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
• sesame seeds, for garnish

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. In small saucepan, whisk soy sauce; brown sugar; rice vinegar; garlic; ginger; chili garlic sauce, if desired; sesame oil; and barbecue sauce. Bring to boil over high heat then reduce heat to simmer.
3. In small bowl, whisk water and cornstarch. Pour into pan and cook on low, whisking often, until sauce thickens, 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Pour 3 tablespoons sauce into small bowl. Brush salmon filets with reserved sauce and place on baking sheet. Bake 15 minutes, or until salmon is flaky. Discard small bowl sauce if any remains.
5. Cook stir-fry noodles according to package directions. Drain, rinse and set aside.
6. Heat large skillet over medium heat. Add sesame oil. Add mushrooms, snap peas and broccoli. Cook, stirring often, until veggies are tender-crisp, 7-8 minutes. Add noodles and remaining sauce from pan; toss to combine.
7. To serve, divide noodles, veggies and salmon between plates.
8. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Source: Mushroom Council

(Family Features) As people have spent more time at home, many have rediscovered the simple joy of home-cooking and stumbled upon a secret weapon for health at the same time. By making smart, intentional decisions from breakfast to dinner and every meal (and drink) in-between, they are supporting strong bodies.

A heart-smart eating plan is especially important for more than 30 million people in the U.S. living with type 2 diabetes who are at double the risk for heart disease and stroke compared to those without diabetes, according to the American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association’s Know Diabetes by Heart initiative. When managing diabetes and heart health, building a consistent eating plan with the right balance can be a powerful tool.

Healthy eating provides benefits for the whole family whether members are managing existing health conditions or not. This recipe for Baked Parmesan Chicken is packed with 30 grams of protein in each serving yet delivers only 280 calories. For a tasty way to increase vegetable intake, try pairing the no-sugar chicken dish with Green Beans with Mushrooms and Onions.

A key to feeling your best begins with the first meal of the day. Start the morning on a nutritious note with this Ham and Broccoli Frittata – a low-sugar, low-fat, low-calorie alternative to traditional fat- and sugar-laden breakfast foods. With this recipe, you’re setting yourself up for a healthy day and getting the energy you need to live it to the fullest.

Find more recipes and learn more about managing the connection between diabetes and heart health at KnowDiabetesbyHeart.org/Recipes.

Baked Parmesan Chicken

Recipe courtesy of Know Diabetes by Heart
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 18 minutes
Servings: 4 (3 ounces chicken per serving)

• Cooking spray
• 1          large egg
• 1          tablespoon water
• 2          teaspoons olive oil
• 1/3       cup finely crushed, low-sodium, whole-grain crispbread
• 1/3       cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
• 2          tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 1/2       teaspoon ground oregano
• 1/4       teaspoon pepper
• 4          boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 ounces each), all visible fat discarded, flattened to 1/4-inch thickness

1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Lightly spray a 13-by-9-by-2-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk the egg, water and oil. In a separate shallow dish or pie pan, stir together the crispbread, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano and pepper. Dip the chicken in the egg mixture then in crumb mixture, turning to coat at each step and gently shaking off any excess. Using fingertips, gently press the coating mixture so it adheres to the chicken. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the baking dish. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray.
3. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink in the center and the top coating is golden brown.

Nutritional information per serving: 280 calories; 80 calories from fat; 9 g total fat; 2.5 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 1 g polyunsaturated fat; 4 g monounsaturated fat; 125 mg cholesterol; 340 mg sodium; 530 mg potassium; 18 g total carbohydrate; 4 g dietary fiber; 0 g sugar; 0 g added sugar; 30 g protein; 370 mg phosphorus. Choices/Exchanges: 1 starch, 4 lean protein.

Ham and Broccoli Frittata

Recipe courtesy of Know Diabetes by Heart
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (1/4 frittata per serving)

• Cooking spray
• 2          cups frozen fat-free potatoes O’Brien, thawed
• 6          ounces small broccoli florets, rinsed in cold water, drained but not dried
• 8          large egg whites
• 1          large egg
• 4          ounces lower-sodium, low-fat ham (uncured, nitrate/nitrite-free), cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1/4       cup fat-free milk
• 1/4       teaspoon pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 400 F.
2. Lightly spray a medium ovenproof skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium heat. Remove from the heat. Put the potatoes in the skillet. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3. In a microwaveable bowl, microwave the broccoli, covered, on high for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain in a colander. Stir the broccoli into the potatoes.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg whites and egg. Whisk in the ham, milk and pepper. Pour the mixture over the potatoes and broccoli; stir well.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the eggs are set.

Nutritional information per serving: 180 calories; 30 calories from fat; 3 g total fat; 1 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 0.5 g polyunsaturated fat; 1.5 g monounsaturated fat; 60 mg cholesterol; 460 mg sodium; 570 mg potassium; 17 g total carbohydrate; 2 g dietary fiber; 4 g sugar; 1 g added sugar; 18 g protein; 210 mg phosphorus. Choices/Exchanges: 1 carbohydrate, 2 lean protein.

Green Beans with Mushrooms and Onions

Recipe courtesy of Know Diabetes by Heart
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 (1/2 cup per serving)

• Water
• 8          ounces green beans, trimmed
• 2          teaspoons olive oil
• 4          ounces sliced mushrooms, stems discarded
• 1/2       cup thinly sliced onion
• 1          medium garlic clove, minced
• 1/8       teaspoon salt
• 2          teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1          pinch pepper

1. Fill a medium saucepan 3/4 full of water. Bring to a boil, covered, over high heat. Cook the green beans, uncovered, 5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain well in a colander.
2. In a medium nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the mushrooms, onion, garlic and salt 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft and lightly browned, stirring frequently. Stir in the lemon juice, pepper and cooked green beans.

Nutritional information per serving: 60 calories; 25 calories from fat; 2.5 g total fat; 0.5 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 0.5 g polyunsaturated fat; 1.5 g monounsaturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 60 mg sodium; 300 mg potassium; 9 g total carbohydrate; 2 g dietary fiber; 4 g sugar; 0 g added sugar; 2 g protein; 70 mg phosphorus. Choices/Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1/2 fat.

Source: American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association

(Family Features) Dinner in many households means foolproof recipes that families can count on, but those can become bland and boring. Finding new ways to put a twist on meals throughout the week adds fun to time spent in the kitchen while bringing new flavor to the table.

To help reinvigorate traditional weeknight dinners, chef Bobby Flay and Hidden Valley Ranch created the three-part Hidden Valley Ranch Night! series to debut dishes that bring bold flavor to traditional meals, such as these recipes for Ranch Crusted Burgers with Avocado Ranch Sauce and Ranch Seasoned Chicken and Mushroom Quesadillas with Tomato Salsa and Sour Cream. The series will provide a spin on weeknight staples to showcase the simplicity, versatility and zesty flavor of ranch seasoning when used to create family-friendly dinners any night of the week.

Find more information, including series episodes and additional recipes, at hiddenvalley.com/ranch-night.

Ranch Crusted Burgers with Avocado Ranch Sauce

Servings: 4

Avocado Ranch Sauce:

• 1/4       cup mayonnaise
• 1/4       cup sour cream
• 1          tablespoon well-shaken buttermilk
• 1/2       teaspoon Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 3          green onions, thinly sliced
• 2          avocados, peeled, pitted and diced

Ranch Spice Crusted Burger:

• 1 1/2    teaspoons Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning
• 1          teaspoon paprika
• kosher salt
• freshly ground pepper
• 1 1/2    pounds ground chuck (80% lean)
• 2          tablespoons canola oil
• 8          slices American cheese
• 1/4       cup water
• 4          brioche buns, split in half
• Avocado Ranch Sauce

1. To make avocado ranch sauce: In bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, ranch seasoning, salt and pepper until smooth. Fold in green onions and diced avocados; set aside.
2. To make burgers: In small bowl, whisk ranch seasoning, paprika, salt and pepper.
3. Heat large cast-iron pan or griddle over high heat. Divide meat into four 6-ounce patties and make deep depression in centers with thumb. Season each with spice rub on one side.
4. Add canola oil to pan and heat until shimmering. Place on burgers in pan, spice side down, and cook until golden brown and lightly charred, 4 minutes. Turn burgers over and cook 4 minutes, or until they reach desired doneness.
5. Top each burger with two slices cheese. Add water to pan and cover tightly with lid 10 seconds, or until the cheese is melted.
6. Place burgers on bottom buns and top each with avocado ranch sauce and top buns.

Ranch Seasoned Chicken and Mushroom Quesadillas with Tomato Salsa and Sour Cream

Servings: 4

Tomato Salsa:

• 4          plum tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
• 1/2       small red onion, finely diced
• 1/2       jalapeno, finely diced
• 1          lime, juice only
• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 3          tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped into ribbons
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper

Quesadillas:

• 2          tablespoons canola oil
• 1 1/2    pounds cremini or button mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 2          teaspoons Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning, divided
• 12        flour tortillas (6 inches)
• 2          cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 16        ounces roasted or rotisserie chicken, shredded
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• canola oil
• 1/2       cup sour cream
• tomato salsa
• 2          tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

1. To make tomato salsa: In medium bowl, combine tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno, lime juice, olive oil and basil; season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. To make quesadillas: Preheat oven to 450 F.
3. In large saute pan over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add mushrooms and season with 1 1/2 teaspoons ranch seasoning. Cook until mushrooms are golden brown and liquid has evaporated. Set aside to cool.
4. Place tortillas next to each other on baking sheet. Sprinkle thin layer of cheese on eight tortillas. Add cooled mushrooms to four tortillas and shredded chicken to other four tortillas. Season each layer with salt and pepper. Stack tortillas to create four, two-layer quesadillas. Cover each with remaining tortillas; brush top tortillas lightly with canola oil and sprinkle with remaining ranch seasoning.
5. Bake 6-8 minutes until cheese is melted and tortillas turn lightly golden brown with crispy edges.
6. Cut each quesadilla into four pieces. Garnish each slice with dollop of sour cream. Add dollop of tomato salsa on top of sour cream and garnish with basil.

Source: Hidden Valley Ranch

(Family Features) Enjoying a meal together at the table is surely one of the all-time holiday traditions for many families. Make this holiday season one to remember by turning to a centerpiece that’s tough to top: steak.

By combining Premium Ground Beef from Omaha Steaks with flavorful additions like mushrooms and onion, you can turn a seasonal meal into a truly sensational dish to savor. While family and friends focus on sides or dessert, you can be the host with the most by serving up a flavorful main course to please nearly everyone’s palate.

Visit OmahaSteaks.com to find more steak-inspired holiday solutions.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Salisbury Steak

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          large egg
• 1          cup fresh breadcrumbs or 1/2 cup dried plain breadcrumbs
• 2          tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, divided
• 1/2       teaspoon kosher salt
• 1          pound Omaha Steaks Premium Ground Beef, thawed
• 1          tablespoon canola oil
• 1          tablespoon butter
• 8          ounces mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1          yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 1          clove garlic, minced
• 1          tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 1/2    cups beef broth
• 1          tablespoon cornstarch

1. In medium bowl, whisk egg. Add breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and salt; stir to combine. Add beef and mix until combined. Divide mixture into four portions and shape each into oval patty about 1/2-inch thick.
2. In large skillet over medium heat, heat canola oil until shimmering. Add patties and sear until dark brown crust forms, about 5 minutes. Flip patties and cook until second side is browned, 4-5 minutes. Transfer patties to platter.
3. In same pan, add butter, scraping up browned bits from bottom of pan. Add mushrooms and onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until mushrooms are tender and onions are beginning to brown, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Mix beef broth, remaining Worcestershire sauce and cornstarch; add to pan, stirring until combined. 
4. Return patties and any accumulated juices to pan; cover and simmer until patties are cooked through and sauce thickens slightly, 10-12 minutes.

Source:  Omaha Steaks