(Family Features) Ease and convenience are the name of the game during the school year as parents and students alike adapt to overwhelming schedules, mounds of homework and seemingly never-ending after-school activities. Oftentimes it’s school day meals that take a hit with families opting for quick bites or drive-thru dining, but that doesn’t have to be the case.

Sharing meals that are filling and flavorful can still be a quick endeavor – you just need creative recipes that help simplify school day schedules. In fact, with kids, more imagination can mean more deliciousness. This playful Caterpillar Sandwich is a ham and cheese spinoff crafted to excite little ones and their little taste buds at lunchtime.

It’s made with Kretschmar’s premium deli meats and cheeses that are crafted for quality. From uniquely smoked ham to hand-trimmed fine cuts of beef and poultry, the off-the-bone deli meats come from the leanest, most tender cuts. Plus, the more than 16 flavors of award-winning deli cheeses are expertly handcrafted by Wisconsin cheesemakers.

These high-quality ingredients are made for more than just sandwiches, however. They’re destined for flavors beyond sliced bread, such as Spiced Pineapple Skewers that are perfect for adding a dash of island delicacy to your midweek dinner menu. A sweet and spicy celebration of tropical flavors, this recipe is perfect for lighting the grill and taking a break from busy season.

Discover more delicious recipes to take back hectic school days at KretschmarDeli.com.

Caterpillar Sandwich

Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 1

• 2 slices whole-wheat bread
• mayonnaise, divided
• 1 slice Kretschmar American Cheese
• 2 slices Kretschmar Off the Bone Ham
• 1 leaf iceberg lettuce
• 1 cherry tomato
• 1 carrot, shaved
• 1 slice Kretschmar Provolone Cheese
• black decorating gel

1. On two slices whole-wheat bread, spread thin layer of mayonnaise on each.
2. Lay American cheese, ham and lettuce leaf on one bread slice then top with other bread slice.
3. Using biscuit cutter, punch four holes into sandwich, removing crust from sandwich, then set aside.
4. Using toothpick or knife, poke two holes into cherry tomato. Insert small cores of carrot into tomato for "antennae."
5. Using pastry tip, cut "eyes" out of provolone cheese. Cut out sliver of provolone cheese for "mouth."
6. Dab mayo on back of "eyes" and "mouth" then attach to cherry tomato.
7. Use black decorating gel to add tiny dots to eyes for pupils; set aside.
8. Place four mini sandwich circles on plate to form caterpillar body then place cherry tomato face at one end.

Spiced Pineapple Skewers

Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

• 8-10 stainless steel or wooden skewers
• 16 ounces pineapple,
• 1 1/2 pounds Kretschmar Spiced Pineapple Ham
• 1/2 cup Hawaiian-style barbecue sauce
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 small red onion
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• black pepper, to taste
• oil, for grates

1. Prepare skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak in water 30 minutes.
2. Heat grill to 300 F.
3. Trim and cut pineapple and ham steak into 1-inch cubes, 1/2-inch thick, and lay on paper towel to pat dry before placing in mixing bowl. Add barbecue sauce to bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Cut bell peppers and red onion into equal-sized, 1-inch cubes. Place in small bowl and coat with canola oil, salt and black pepper, to taste.
5. To assemble skewers: Alternate threading ham, pineapple, bell peppers and onion onto skewers then place on baking sheet.
6. Using paper towel, apply oil to grill grates or grill pan then place skewers on grill uncovered, turning every few minutes until charred, no longer than 6-7 minutes.

 Source: Kretschmar

(Family Features) In between summer adventures and hot afternoons spent poolside, you’re likely looking to combat rising temperatures with a cool, refreshing beverage. This year, quench your thirst with drinks that play up the trendiness of bold flavors.

While many concoctions can help you beat the heat, some gems seem to hit the spot better than others. Consider one of the trendiest beverages that is increasingly becoming available at smoothie and juice bars nationwide but which you can also prepare at home: the tempting, bold taste of the Mangonada. With a harmonious fusion of sweet, spicy and tangy flavors, this thirst-quencher captures the essence of tropical indulgence with the majestic mango at the center of its symphony of flavors.

“Mango not only adds a burst of flavor but also brings a unique depth to the beverage,” said Dan Spellman, director of marketing for the National Mango Board.

Central to the Mangonada is Tajín Fruity Chamoy Sauce and Clásico Seasoning – a zesty blend of chili peppers, lime and sea salt – which are must-have ingredients to make the beverage. They combine to infuse the drink with a subtle kick, balancing the mango’s sweetness with a hint of spiciness that hits different.

This beloved beverage has captured the hearts and palates of people worldwide with its bold flavors and vibrant spirit to make summer deliciously unforgettable.

For another take on a classic drink, give this Tangy Chamoy Tropical Daiquiri a try at your next summer cookout. You can enjoy its cool, refreshing flavor with just the right touch of spice from Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce with the yellow cap, which is made with natural ingredients but offers a unique fruity and tangy flavor, ideal for pairing with sweet snacks like fruits, smoothies, mangonadas and ice pops. With no added sugar or coloring, they’re perfect for the entire family all summer long.

There are thousands of ways to enjoy these unique flavors. To find more refreshing drinks that beat the summer heat, visit tajin.com.

Mangonada

Recipe courtesy of the National Mango Board

• 1 cup fresh mango cubes, plus 5-6 cubes for garnish, divided
• 2 ounces fresh mango nectar
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• 2 cups ice
• 1/2 ounce agave nectar
• 2 tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce, plus 2 ounces for garnish, divided
• 1 tablespoon Tajín Clásico Seasoning, for garnish
• 1 tamarind candy, for garnish (optional)

1. Measure 1 cup mango cubes, mango nectar, lime juice, ice and agave nectar into blender cup. Blend until smooth.
2. In separate small dishes, add 1 ounce hot sauce and 1 ounce seasoning.
3. Dip rim of 14-ounce Collins glass into hot sauce then seasoning to coat. Drizzle remaining hot sauce along inside of glass.
4. In glass, pour 1 tablespoon chamoy sauce followed by blended Mangonada. Top with remaining fresh mango cubes and sprinkle with additional seasoning. Add tamarind candy to glass, if desired.

Tangy Chamoy Tropical Daiquiri

Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

To Rim Glass:

• 2 tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce
• 2 tablespoons Tajín Clásico Seasoning

Drink:

• 1/2 cup diced pineapple
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 2 ice cubes
• 2 tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce
• 1 slice pineapple, for garnish

1. Rim two glasses in hot sauce then in seasoning.
2. Blend diced pineapple with orange juice, ice and hot sauce; pour into glasses.
3. Garnish with pineapple slice.

Source: Tajin

(Family Features) A smooth, fruity smoothie provides a delicious way to start your morning strong, add much-needed afternoon energy or cap off a successful day as a better-for-you dessert. The next time you crave a tasty treat, turn to this Tropical Boba Smoothie for a little sip of paradise.

Thicker than traditional boba tea, this tropical-inspired solution features a creamy blend of pineapple, mango, strawberries and coconut served over shiny black boba pearls. With a splash of milk and dollop of plain Greek yogurt, it also boasts the benefits of dairy that are fundamental to good nutrition.

In fact, a balanced diet includes a variety of foods – like dairy – to get essential nutrients and is important to maintain healthy gut and immune function and optimize overall wellness.

Visit MilkMeansMore.org to find more nutritious recipe ideas.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Tropical Boba Smoothie

Recipe by Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, culinary dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1          pack (2.12 ounces) instant brown sugar boba
• 1 1/2    cups frozen mixed pineapple, mango and strawberries
• 1/2       cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/4       cup plain Greek yogurt (5%, 2% or fat free)
• 1          tablespoon honey
• 1/4       teaspoon coconut extract or vanilla

1. Prepare boba according to package directions.
2. In blender, combine fruit, milk, yogurt, honey and coconut extract. Cover and blend until nearly smooth.
3. Place boba in 14-16-ounce glass. Pour fruit mixture over top. Serve.

Source: United Diary of Michigan

(Family Features) Mealtime traditions are common among many families, from taco Tuesdays to weekend favorites. You can add a special touch to one of the most popular traditions – taco night – with a plant-based twist.

With a nutty, smoky and truly meaty taste and texture, pecans offer a perfect plant-based protein to incorporate in favorite dishes like tacos. However, great taste is just the beginning – pecans pack a nutritious punch with a unique mix of health-promoting nutrients while shining in a wide range of flavor profiles.

To help make your next taco night all the rage among loved ones, the American Pecan Promotion Board recommends serving up authentic vegan taco recipes using pecans in place of meat in dishes like Smoky Chipotle Pecan Burrito Bowls and Vegan Pecan Al Pastor Tacos. Their texture makes them uniquely suited as a meat alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor so it can taste like the original and leave your family clamoring to keep taco night on the weekly menu.

Learn more and discover delicious plant-based recipes at eatpecans.com.

Smoky Chipotle Pecan Burrito Bowls

Recipe courtesy of Dominique Williamson on behalf of the American Pecan Promotion Board
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2-3

Pecan “Meat:”

• 2 1⁄2     cups water
• 1          cup pecans
• 1⁄2         cup portobello mushrooms
• 2          tablespoons taco seasoning
• 2          tablespoons tamari sauce or soy sauce
• 2          cloves garlic, minced
• 1          tablespoon liquid smoke
• 1          tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
• 1          tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce

Pineapple Salsa:

• 1          pineapple, diced
• 2          Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1-2       jalapenos, diced
• 1          cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 1          red onion, diced
• 1⁄4        cup lime juice
•            salt, to taste

Chipotle Crema:

• 2          chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1          cup vegan mayo
• 3          cloves garlic, minced
• 2          teaspoons vinegar
• 2          tablespoons plant-based milk
• 1          teaspoon agave
• 1⁄2         teaspoon salt

1. To make pecan “meat:” In bowl of boiling water, soak pecans, covered, at least 30 minutes, or overnight in room temperature water for softer texture.
2. Drain pecans and place in food processor with mushrooms. Pulse mixture to texture resembling meat crumbles. Avoid over-pulsing.
3. In pan over medium heat, add pecan mixture, taco seasoning, tamari sauce, minced garlic, liquid smoke and vegan Worcestershire sauce. Cook 7-10 minutes then add chipotle in adobo. Cook 3 minutes.
4. To make pineapple salsa: Combine pineapple, tomatoes, jalapenos, cilantro, red onion, lime juice and salt, to taste.
5. To make chipotle crema: Combine chipotle peppers, vegan mayo, garlic, vinegar, milk, agave and salt.
6. To assemble bowls, place pecan mixture in bowl followed by pineapple salsa and chipotle crema.

Vegan Pecan Al Pastor Tacos

Recipe courtesy of the American Pecan Promotion Board
Prep time: 35 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

•             Water
• 2          pounds chopped pecans
• 1          cup onion
• 8          cloves garlic, minced
• 8          dried guajillo peppers
• 2          tablespoons oil
•             salt, to taste
•             pepper, to taste
• 7          ounces (1 can) chipotle peppers in adobo

Toppings and Garnishes:

• flour or corn tortillas (6 inches each)
• cilantro
• diced onion
• lime
• pineapple

1. In bowl of boiling water, soak pecans, covered, at least 30 minutes, or overnight in room temperature water for softer texture.
2. Drain pecans. In food processor, pulse pecans to meat-like crumbles. Do not overprocess to pecan butter.
3. Finely chop onions, garlic and guajillo peppers.
4. In skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil and saute onions until transparent, 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, to taste, and stir to combine.
5. Add chipotle peppers in adobo and cook 1 minute. Add crumbled pecans and stir well to combine.
6. Remove from heat and serve on tortillas.
7. Serve with cilantro, onion, lime and pineapple.

Source: American Pecan Promotion Board

(Family Features) As you plan your summer fun, think also about adopting healthy habits that can help keep your blood pressure under control. When your blood pressure is consistently high – a condition called hypertension – blood flows through arteries at higher-than-normal pressures. This can cause serious health problems not just for your heart, but also for your blood vessels, kidneys, eyes and brain.

Hypertension affects women and men of all ages but making small lifestyle changes can go a long way toward prevention. Start with updating your summer menu with delicious, heart-healthy recipes, like Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.  

Following a heart-healthy eating plan, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), which emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, low-fat dairy and healthy oils, can help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range. Developed through research by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), DASH focuses on reducing sodium and limiting foods that are high in saturated fat, including fatty meats, full-fat dairy and tropical oils.

Along with adding healthy recipes to your summer menu, NHLBI’s The Heart Truth program encourages these healthy habits that can help you control blood pressure:

Move more: Aim for at least 150 minutes (2 1/2 hours) of physical activity each week. Try keeping yourself on pace each week by shooting for 30 daily minutes of activity over five days.

Aim for a healthy weight: Research shows adults with overweight and obesity can lower their blood pressure by losing just 3-5% of their weight. Ask a friend or family member to join a weight loss program with you; social support can help you both stay motivated.

Manage stress: Reduce stress – which can increase blood pressure – with meditation, relaxing activities or support from a counselor or online group.

Quit smoking: Smoking damages your heart and blood vessels. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or find other resources available online.

Get your summer off to a heart-healthy start by talking to your health care provider about your blood pressure numbers and what they mean. To learn more about heart health and blood pressure, visit hearttruth.gov and find DASH-friendly recipes at healthyeating.nhlbi.nih.gov.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Recipe courtesy of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Sauce:

• 2          tablespoons ketchup
• 2          tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2          tablespoons honey
• 2          teaspoons orange juice
• 1          teaspoon garlic (about 1 clove), minced
• 1          teaspoon ginger, minced

• 12        ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2 large breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 24 cubes)
• 1          cup fresh pineapple, diced (about 24 pieces)
• 8          wooden skewers (6 inches each), soaked in water

1. To make sauce: Combine ketchup, soy sauce, honey, orange juice, garlic and ginger; mix well. Separate into two bowls and set aside.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Preheat oven to 350 F.
3. Alternately thread three chicken cubes and three pineapple chunks on each skewer.
4. Grill skewers 3-5 minutes on each side. Brush or spoon sauce from one bowl onto chicken and pineapple every other minute. Discard remaining sauce from first bowl.
5. To prevent chicken from drying out, finish cooking to minimum internal temperature of 165 F in oven. Using clean brush or spoon, coat with sauce from remaining bowl before serving.

Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

(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) While the first step to a successful family meal is finding a recipe everyone loves, a second important piece to the puzzle is creating a dish that leaves enough time for special moments together at the table. You can skip complicated prep by serving easy-to-make favorites that call for versatile ingredients and simple instructions.

These Sheet Pan Hawaiian Veal Meatballs are a perfect example of a quick yet delicious meal your loved ones can enjoy without committing an entire evening to the kitchen. With veal as a key ingredient that cooks fast and easy, it’s ideal for weeknights and meal prepping ahead of busy weeks.

Plus, it’d be a cinch to double the meatballs and freeze half of them to make prep even easier the next time your family craves the sweet and savory combination of pineapple, fresh veggies and tender veal.

To find more quick, flavorful dinner inspiration, visit Veal.org.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Sheet Pan Hawaiian Veal Meatballs

Funded by Beef Farmers and Ranchers
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Meatballs:

• 2          pounds ground veal
• 1/2       cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1/4       cup milk
• 3          green onions, chopped
• 1          large egg
• 2          teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/2    teaspoons ground ginger
• 2          teaspoons kosher salt
• 1          cup Hawaiian barbecue sauce, plus additional for serving, divided

Vegetables:

• 1          small head broccoli, cut into florets
• 1          small red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1          small yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1          small red onion, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1          small pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• kosher salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2          green onions, for garnish
• 2          teaspoons sesame seeds, for garnish
• 6          cups cooked long-grain white rice

1. To make meatballs: Preheat oven to 450 F and line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. In large bowl, mix veal, breadcrumbs, milk, green onions, egg, garlic powder, ginger and salt until just combined. Portion veal mixture into 2-inch balls. Place in even layer on prepared baking sheets.
2. Bake about 15 minutes. Remove from oven.
3. To make vegetables: Toss broccoli, bell peppers, red onion, pineapple and oil together until coated. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Arrange vegetables in single layer on baking sheets with meatballs. Flip meatballs and brush with sauce. Bake until vegetables are tender and meatballs are golden-brown, or until internal temperature reaches 160 F, about 15 minutes.
5. Drizzle with barbecue sauce. Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with rice.

Source: New York Beef Council

(Family Features) The end result of perfectly cooked chicken is a mouthwatering meal that smells just as good as it tastes and beckons loved ones to the patio. To achieve that juicy, tender flavor that brings family and friends together, it’s important to keep a few safety and grilling tips in mind.

Fire up your grill, season poultry to perfection and serve a safely cooked meal at your next backyard barbecue with this advice from the experts at Perdue Farms.

Maximize Your Budget
For a flavorful meal without breaking the bank, consider less-expensive cuts of meat like bone-in thighs or drumsticks, or cook a whole chicken that can last for several meals. In addition to the savings at the grocery store, these cuts can also withstand hotter temperatures on the grill for juicy and tender results.

Save a Little Time
One easy way to maximize your time around the grill while cutting down on prep and mess is using a pre-cut option like Perdue Fresh Cuts Diced Chicken Breast, a perfect solution for kebabs. Recipe ready in an easy-peel package, the chickens are hatched and harvested in the United States with an all-vegetarian diet and no antibiotics, hormones or steroids.

Add Favorite Seasonings
Because seasonings can sometimes come off on the grill, try seasoning both before and after grilling for a better-tasting final result. If you’re planning to marinate, be careful to avoid over-marinating as acid-based marinades can start breaking down meat fibers. Remember before and while seasoning raw meat to keep proper safety practices in mind. Wash your hands, cutting boards, knives, scissors, the sink and all work surfaces for 20 seconds with hot, soapy water, and don’t allow raw meat or its juices to touch other foods.

Trust the Thermometer
Once your grill reaches the desired heat, put chicken on the grates with confidence by trusting a meat thermometer to measure doneness. This Easy Kona Pineapple Chicken Kebabs recipe, for example, calls for 10-12 minutes on the grill, but it’s important to check for an internal temperature of 165 F rather than simply relying on recommended cook times. Be sure to serve using a clean platter and utensils, never ones touched by raw meat. Refrigerate any leftover chicken immediately and use within 3-5 days.

For more grilling tips, visit perdue.com/how-to/grilling.

Easy Kona Pineapple Chicken Kebabs

Prep time: 45 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1 can (6 ounces) pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 lime, zest and juice only
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 piece (1 inch) fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 package Perdue Fresh Cuts Diced Chicken Breast
• 1/2 fresh pineapple, cut into 16 chunks
• 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 16 (1-inch) chunks
• 4 metal skewers or 8 wooden skewers (12 inches) soaked in water 30 minutes

1. In bowl, whisk pineapple juice, vegetable oil, lime juice and zest, sugar, ginger and red pepper flakes until sugar dissolves. Add diced chicken breast, cover and marinate in refrigerator 30 minutes.
2. Thread alternating pieces of chicken, pineapple and red bell pepper onto skewers. Discard remaining marinade.
3. Heat lightly greased grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill kebabs 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes until chicken feels firm to touch and a meat thermometer inserted in the center reaches 165 F.
4. Remove kebabs from grill, rest 2-3 minutes and serve.

Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak in water 30 minutes to keep skewers from burning on grill. If using metal skewers, remember chicken will cook faster because metal will conduct heat and cook chicken cubes from inside along with grill heat cooking chicken from outside.

Source: Perdue Farms

(Culinary.net) It’s time to kick off summer with a bang. With exciting summer events like baseball, sunbathing and barbecues filling social calendars, comes a whole new array of fresh, sunny day snacks just waiting to be devoured.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet with a hint of spice, try this Citrus, Mango and Pineapple Salsa. It features fresh, fruity flavors from the pineapple, mango, lemon and lime plus a surprising bite of jalapeno. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and zesty.

This light, warm weather appetizer  is perfect for pool parties or dining al fresco. A fresh twist on traditional salsa, this recipe will have people lining up for a second scoop to help beat the heat.

Enjoy it with tortilla chips or as a topping on your favorite tacos to add a little sweetness to a traditionally savory meal.

For more fresh summertime recipes, visit Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Citrus, Mango and Pineapple Salsa

Recipe adapted from becomingness.com

• 1 1/4    cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 1/4    cup fresh mango, diced
• 2          tomatoes
• 1/2       red onion, diced
• 1          jalapeno, finely chopped
• 1          tablespoon coriander
• 2          tablespoons lime juice
• 1          tablespoon lemon juice
• sea salt, to taste
• fresh cracked pepper, to taste
• tortilla chips, for serving

1. In large bowl, combine pineapple, mango, tomato, onion, jalapeno, coriander, lime juice, lemon juice and salt and pepper, to taste. With rubber spatula, mix all ingredients together.
2. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
3. Serve with tortilla chips.

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) Whether you spend your summer afternoons sitting by the pool, splashing in the shallow end or just soaking up the sun’s rays, part of the fun is beating the heat with a cool, refreshing snack. Heading to the freezer for a fruity ice pop can transport you from your own backyard to a tropical island, and the experience can be even more rewarding when the tasty treat is homemade.

Cool down after fun in the sun with these kid-friendly Pina Colada Sweetpotato Ice Pops, a tropical-inspired dessert made with coconut cream, sweetpotatoes, fresh pineapple, lime juice and honey.

Sure to please kids and adults alike, they’re a better-for-you option when a cold snack calls your name. As a “diabetes superfood,” according to the American Diabetes Association, sweetpotatoes provide a main ingredient that’s rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber along with a “sweet” flavor without the added sugar.

The ease of this summer snack means kids can help in the kitchen, and while you wait for the sweet concoction to freeze, you can share this fun fact with them: The one-word spelling of “sweetpotato” was adopted by the National Sweetpotato Collaborators in 1989 in an effort to avoid confusion with the potato and yam among shippers, distributors, warehouse workers and consumers. To add to the fun facts, a sweetpotato is not even botanically related to a white potato; they are two entirely different species from one another.

Visit ncsweetpotatoes.com to find more delicious summer recipe ideas.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Pina Colada Sweetpotato Ice Pops

Prep time: 5 minutes
Freeze time: 3-4 hours
Yield: 8 small ice pops

• 1/2       cup coconut cream
• 3/4       cup mashed and cooked sweetpotato
• 3/4       cup diced pineapple
• 2          tablespoons honey
• 1          tablespoon lime juice
• coconut flakes (optional)

1. In food processor or high-speed blender, mix coconut cream, sweetpotato, pineapple, honey and lime juice. Transfer batter to freezer molds.
2. Place in freezer 3-4 hours. Top with coconut flakes, if desired.

Source: North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission