(Family Features) Busy fall schedules often leave little time for the things that matter most – sharing special moments with those you love. This year, as time seems to speed up during another school year, making family bonding a priority in your household can start with a few simple tricks.

Connect with your loved ones this fall while juggling hectic routines with this advice:

Schedule Family Nights
Desiring evenings spent with your nearest and dearest and actually making them happen are two separate things entirely. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season with days that feel too long and evenings that are often too short. Putting dedicated family nights on the calendar is a good way to avoid last-minute commitments that take away from important bonding time. Incorporate some favorite activities, whether your loved ones are board game enthusiasts or movie buffs, to give everyone something exciting to look forward to.

Make Cooking Together a Family Activity
Making dinner for the family shouldn’t take up valuable time that could be used for quality moments together. Seeking out quick and easy recipes leaves more hours in the day to spend with family members – or you can even make preparing dinner a family activity.

Teaching kids how to make your favorite recipes creates great memories and can maximize time spent together. From making kid-approved lunchbox sliders together to preparing time-saving, weeknight-friendly sliders as a family after school, King’s Hawaiian Rolls and Slider Buns have the power to help unite busy parents and picky kids. Plus, they’re soft and fluffy with the right touch of sweetness, and sliders are customizable, easy, fun and always a crowd pleaser. These Ham and Swiss Sliders or Peanut Butter, Jelly and Banana Sliders offer ways kids can help, from layering meats and cheeses to spreading peanut butter. Everyone can lend a hand in the kitchen while enjoying quality time together.

Encourage Extracurricular Participation
Beyond those special moments at home, there are plenty of ways to connect with your kiddos. Encouraging them to participate in extracurriculars, like sports, band, theater, dance, choir or other activities, provides a great way to enjoy something together as you watch your children branch out and try new things. If they happen to try an activity you used to (or still do) participate in, it’s an easy way to make a unique connection by sharing your own memories, offering helpful tips or even passing down old equipment like sports gear or an instrument.

Find more inspiration for family bonding with delicious meals and snacks by visiting KingsHawaiian.com.

Ham and Swiss Sliders

Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6

• 1 stick butter
• 1 package (12 rolls) King's Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
• 1 pound shaved deli ham
• 1 pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese

1. Heat oven to 350 F. Melt butter and set aside.
2. Cut entire pack of rolls in half horizontally, keeping all top and bottom halves intact.
3. In 9-by-13-inch pan, place bottom halves of rolls and cover with ham and cheese.
4. Cover ham and cheese stacks with top halves of rolls. Drizzle butter mixture over tops of rolls.
5. Bake, uncovered, 15-20 minutes. Separate rolls for serving.

Peanut Butter, Jelly and Banana Sliders

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

• 1 package (12 rolls) King's Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
• 4 tablespoons salted peanut butter
• 4 tablespoons strawberry jam
• 2 bananas, sliced

1. Cut entire pack of rolls in half horizontally, keeping all top and bottom halves intact.
2. Spread peanut butter on bottom halves followed by strawberry jam. Top with banana slices then top halves of rolls.

Source: King’s Hawaiian

(Family Features) Inviting loved ones and neighbors for a backyard barbecue is a timeless summer tradition bringing together favorite foods and friendly conversation. At your next cookout, remember to make the experience warm and welcoming for everyone, including those looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets, by offering up a variety of options at the table.

You can make it easy to enjoy a meatless summer soiree loaded with flavor by using an option like Sweet Earth Plant-Based Chik’n, a ready-to-eat solution offering an excellent source of protein per serving, made with vegan ingredients. The pre-marinated options mean less time spent cooking and more time catching up with friends and family in the summer sun while eating delicious meals.

Perfect for enjoying in a variety of ways, it’s a bold and savory centerpiece in these Vegan Pulled Chipotle Chik’n Sliders that combine a sweet and spicy chipotle-maple sauce with fresh veggies for a saucy bite full of plant-based protein. Put a taste bud-tingling twist on fajita night with Jerk Chik’n Fajitas with Black Rice, an easy way to channel your inner chef and serve up a flavorful, plant-based meal.

Find more delicious plant-based recipes and products at sweetearthfoods.com.

Vegan Pulled Chipotle Chik'n Sliders

Prep time: 10 minutes 
Cook time: 10 minutes 
Servings: 10-12

• 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup veggie broth
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 pinch kosher salt
• 1pinch pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 
• 1/2 lemon, juice only 
• 1 package (8 ounces) Sweet Earth Chipotle Chik'n

• 12 vegan brioche slider bun

Vegan Spicy Mayo:

• 1/2 cup vegan mayo
• 2 tablespoons vegan sour cream
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely minced
• 2 teaspoons fajita seasoning 
• 1 lime, juice only

Optional toppings:

• 1 jar pickle chips
• 1/2 cup purple shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup jalapeno peppers
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

1. In blender, puree peppers with ketchup, maple syrup, broth, allspice and brown sugar. Set aside.
2. In pan over medium heat, add oil. Once oil begins to shimmer, add onion and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally.
3. Once onions become translucent, around 5 minutes, add garlic. After 1 minute, add pepper puree blend to pan along with lemon juice and stir to combine.
4. Once mixed, fold in chipotle plant-based "chicken" and cook 3-4 minutes until heated through.
5. To make vegan spicy mayo: In bowl, mix mayo, sour cream, peppers, cilantro, fajita seasoning and lime juice.
6. Spread vegan spicy mayo on buns and add plant-based "chicken" mixture. Top with pickle chips, cabbage, jalapenos, carrots and tomatoes, as desired.

Jerk Chik'n Fajitas with Black Rice

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2-3

Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons lime juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper
• 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

Fajita Fixings:

• 1 package (8 ounces) Sweet Earth Mindful Chik'n Strips
• 1/2 teaspoon avocado oil
• 1/2 white onion, chopped
• 1 small green pepper, chopped
• 1/2 yellow pepper, chopped
• flour tortillas, warmed
• black rice, cooked

Mango Salsa:

• 1 chopped mango
• 3 teaspoons lime juice
• 2 teaspoons chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped

1. To make marinade: In blender, blend brown sugar, lime juice, soy sauce, oil, bonnet pepper, Jamaican jerk seasoning, garlic and salt and pepper, to taste, until smooth.
2. To make fajitas: Marinate plant-based "chicken" in jerk sauce for 1 hour.
3. In grill pan on stove over medium heat, heat oil. Cook plant-based "chicken" until heated through. In separate pan, add splash of oil and cook white onion, bell pepper and yellow pepper.
   Add plant-based "chicken" to veggies and cook 1-2 minutes.
4. To make mango salsa: In bowl, mix mango, lime juice, cilantro, red onion and red bell pepper.
5. Add jerk plant-based "chicken" and mango salsa to tortillas. Serve with black rice.

Source: Sweet Earth

(Family Features) Enjoying a meal as a family might seem farfetched with schedules full of work, activities and social commitments. However, you can make bringing everyone together a bit easier (and more delicious) with a weekly tradition like Slider Sunday that gets the whole crew excited about time around the kitchen table.

No matter what your loved ones crave, you can savor a different flavor and enjoy the soft, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls and Slider Buns, including Pretzel Slider Buns, each and every Sunday. Plus, toppings can be customized so everyone’s favorites are on the menu.

Put a spin on your next Slider Sunday with Chicken Parm-eroni Sliders or Lobster Knuckle Sliders with Spicy Mayo from Guy Fieri.

Discover more slider recipe inspiration by visiting SliderSunday.com.

Chicken Parm-eroni Sliders

Recipe courtesy of Guy Fieri
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup minced garlic
• 1 package King's Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Buns
• 3 cups vegetable oil
• 2 cups pepperoni, julienned
• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce
• 9 breaded chicken tenders, cooked crispy
• 5 slices fresh mozzarella
• 5 slices provolone cheese
• 9 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped Italian parsley

1. In small saucepot over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook 3-4 minutes until garlic softens but does not brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Separate pretzel slider buns and brush inside halves with melted garlic butter. Toast rolls on griddle until golden brown; flip and slightly toast outside of rolls. Set aside.
3. In 4-quart saucepot with thermometer, heat oil to 350 F. Fry pepperoni until bubbles start to slow. Carefully remove from oil and place on plate with paper towel.
4. In small saucepot, heat marinara sauce. Place 1 tablespoon sauce on bottom halves of slider buns.
5. On lined sheet pan, place one chicken tender on each slider bun. Place 1 tablespoon marinara sauce on top of each tender followed by half slice mozzarella then half slice provolone. Top each slider with 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan. Place baking sheet in broiler and melt cheese.
6. Top cheese with 1 tablespoon crispy pepperoni on each slider.
7. Top sliders with other halves of toasted slider buns. Brush tops with garlic butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Use bamboo picks to secure.

Lobster Knuckle Sliders with Spicy Mayo

Recipe courtesy of Guy Fieri
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1 package King's Hawaiian Slider Buns
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tomato, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• kosher salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, cut in half
• 1 package tempura flour mixture
• 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning
• 9 ounces cooked lobster knuckle meat
• 2 1/2 cups white cabbage, shredded fine
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons chives, finely chopped

1. Separate slider buns and brush inside halves with melted butter. Toast rolls on griddle until golden brown; flip and slightly toast outsides of rolls.
2. In mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, celery, mayonnaise and sriracha. Season with salt and pepper, to taste; add juice and zest from 1/2 lemon. Mix well to fully incorporate. Place in refrigerator to chill.
3. Mix tempura batter per package instructions and season with seafood seasoning.
4. Preheat deep fryer to 350 F.
5. Pat lobster dry with paper towels. Place lobster in tempura batter and allow to sit 30-60 seconds.
6. Remove lobster one piece at a time, allowing excess batter to drip off. Working in batches, fry until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
7. While lobster is frying, place cabbage in mixing bowl; add extra-virgin olive oil and juice from remaining 1/2 lemon. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Mix well to incorporate evenly.
8. Place 2 tablespoons cabbage mixture on each bun, making bed on each bun to hold lobster in place.
9. Remove lobster from fryer and allow excess oil to drain completely. Toss lobster in mayonnaise mixture and sprinkle with chopped chives. Place lobster on cabbage mixture then add top buns and secure with bamboo skewers.

Source: King’s Hawaiian

(Family Features) Sunshine and summer evenings often elicit a certain craving for warm-weather favorites, but many families don’t always have time to light a grill or wait for the charcoal to heat up. On those busy days when summer fare calls your name but time is of the essence, opt for a family-friendly recipe that offers seasonal taste from the cool comforts of the kitchen.

Hot dogs provide a versatile option that bring the kids running and can be used in a wide variety of dishes. These Corn Muffin Hot Dog Sliders, ready in just 30 minutes, offer a tasty twist on tradition by combining a summertime favorite with a comfort food classic.

In addition to the feel-good flavors, they’re made with all-beef Coleman Natural uncured hot dogs, sourced from American family farms that never use antibiotics or added hormones, meaning you can feel confident about the ingredients you’re feeding your family.

For more recipe ideas, visit ColemanNatural.com/Recipes.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Corn Muffin Hot Dog Sliders

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6 (2 sliders per serving)

•             Nonstick cooking spray
• 1          cup all-purpose flour
• 1          cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/2       teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1          cup buttermilk
• 1/2       cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3       cup sugar
• 2          large eggs
• 6          Coleman Natural Beef Hot Dogs, cut into coins or sliced on bias, 1/2-inch thick
• 1          cup baby arugula
• mustard, for garnish (optional)
• ketchup, for garnish (optional)
• relish, for garnish (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Lightly coat 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
2. In large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, baking soda and salt. In separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, butter, sugar and eggs. Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients and stir until moist.
3. Scoop batter into each muffin tin cup until halfway full. Bake 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Remove pan from oven and cool on wire rack 10-15 minutes before removing muffins from pan.
5. In large skillet over medium heat, cook hotdog slices, turning occasionally with fork until slightly browned.
6. Slice each muffin in half horizontally, add arugula and hot dog slices then garnish with mustard, ketchup and relish, if desired.

Substitution: Use store-bought corn muffin mix rather than making corn muffins from scratch, if desired.

Source: Coleman Natural Foods

(Family Features) Holiday gatherings, even in a time when smaller groups are encouraged, take on special meaning for many families. Part of the joy comes from the food that’s shared among loved ones from appetizers and sides to the main course.

This year, you can enjoy those meaningful moments with your closest family members and friends by putting together a menu that keeps smiles on faces from the first bite to the last. Start with your favorite among the nearly endless appetizer options that symbolize the season then enjoy a tender tri-tip alongside bacon-wrapped asparagus and a twist on classic, roasted potatoes.

Visit Culinary.net to find more holiday menu ideas.

Start Your Seasonal Celebration with Small Bites

While main courses, sides and desserts may be what holiday memories are made of, you can calm family members’ and guests’ appetites with an array of appetizers like these:

Meatballs
Stuffed mushrooms
Stuffed peppers
Sliced cheese
Sliced meats
Crackers
Spinach dip
Cheesy bread
Sliders
Little smokies
Fresh fruit and vegetables

A Simply Tasty Side

Many recipes commonly associated with the holidays are accompanied by lengthy ingredient lists or hours spent in the kitchen. However, all that time and effort doesn’t have to be used on this year’s side dish when you opt for a simple yet mouthwatering option.

You can feel good about what you’re feeding your family this holiday season while saving prep time by serving this Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus made with Coleman Natural bacon, which contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives and is sourced from American family farms that humanely raise their animals with no antibiotics or added hormones. Whether it’s served as a side dish or an appetizer, it calls for just a handful of everyday ingredients for a dish you can be proud of.

Visit ColemanNatural.com/Recipes for more seasonal recipe inspiration.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Servings: 10

• 20        asparagus stalks
• 10        slices Coleman Natural Hickory Smoked Bacon
• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 1/2       teaspoon pepper

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wrap 2 asparagus stalks with 1 slice bacon. Repeat with remaining asparagus and bacon. Place bundles on baking sheet. Drizzle asparagus ends with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Bake until asparagus is cooked through and bacon is crisp, about 20 minutes.

A Tender Holiday Tri-Tip

Centering your holiday meal around a flavorful cut of meat can make the celebration truly memorable, especially when it’s cooked to perfection over the hot flame of a grill.

This year, take your family’s main course to the next level with a Garlic Herb Tri-Tip lightly seasoned with garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper to let the naturally flavorful New Zealand grass-fed beef speak for itself. Because the animals roam and graze freely over lush green hills and pastures year-round, New Zealand grass-fed beef is leaner, more finely textured and tastes just as nature intended.

Find more recipes and holiday meal ideas at beefandlambnz.com.

Garlic Herb Tri-Tip

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

• 1          New Zealand grass-fed beef tri-tip (2 1/2-3 pounds)
• 1/4       cup olive oil
• 2          tablespoons minced garlic
• 3          tablespoons fresh chopped thyme
• 3          tablespoons fresh chopped rosemary
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2    teaspoons black pepper

1. Preheat grill to high heat.
2. Rub tri-tip with olive oil. Add minced garlic and use hands to evenly distribute.
3. Combine chopped thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper; cover oiled tri-tip on both sides with spice blend.
4. Place tri-tip on hottest part of grill and sear 2-3 minutes.
5. Flip tri-tip and transfer to indirect heat. Continue grilling until internal temperature reaches 135 F for medium-rare.
6. Transfer meat to platter, cover with foil and let rest 10 minutes.
7. Slice across the grain and serve.

An Easy but Impressive Side

Every holiday meal comes with plenty of traditional and family-favorite dishes, and one of the most common on tables is potatoes. Whether they’re roasted, mashed or anything in-between, they’re among the most versatile options for the holidays.

This year, you can save time on seasonal favorites with Creamer potatoes from The Little Potato Company. They are ready to use, with no washing or peeling required, and they’re small and consistent in size so they cook quickly.

Try them roasted, boiled, smashed or mashed whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or getting a festive meal on the table. This holiday season, try these Little Hasselback Potatoes for a twist on the classic roasted variety. For an easy cooking hack, slice the potatoes on a wooden spoon to prevent cutting all the way through.

Visit littlepotatoes.com for more holiday recipe inspiration.

Little Hasselback Potatoes

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8-12

• 1          bag (3 pounds) The Little Potato Company Holiday Blend
• 10        sprigs thyme, removed from stem
• 6          sprigs parsley, chopped
• 4          cloves garlic, minced
• 6          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1          teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2       teaspoon pepper
• sour cream (optional)
• cooked bacon pieces (optional)
• green onion slices (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. Lay wooden spoon flat on solid surface and place one potato in spoon. Using paring knife, slice 1/8-inch thick slices along length of each potato one at a time.
3. In bowl, toss potatoes, thyme, parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper. Place potatoes on parchment-lined baking sheet, cut sides down. Bake 10 minutes, flip and bake 10 minutes, or until soft.
4. Serve with sour cream, bacon and green onion, if desired.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Holiday small bites)

Source: Coleman Natural Foods
Beef + Lamb New Zealand
The Little Potato Company

Fried, grilled, baked or slow-cooked, game day dishes come in all flavors and textures so everyone comes out a winner. Try these classic ideas and new spins to take your home-gate to the next level.

• Chicken Wings – Bone-in or boneless, skin on or skin off, buffalo or barbecue-glazed, chicken wings are chef’s choice for a handheld party pleaser. With nearly endless ways to prepare them, they’re a game day staple for parties of all sizes.
• Pizzas – While delivery (or carryout) from a local restaurant is likely to be more common, creating a homemade pizza is as simple as rolling out dough, layering sauce and cheese then finishing with personalized toppings. If you’re in charge of a smaller, more manageable group, you can even try personal-sized pies for maximum customization.
• Barbecue – Ribs, pulled pork, brisket and slow-smoked barbecue of all varieties may take more preparation but almost always ends with a happy fan base. Keep in mind that you’ll need to plan further in advance for longer cook times, but larger cuts of meat like pork shoulder help feed larger groups.
• Veggie Trays – Not every game day dish has to include heavy foods or sticky fingers. An assortment of carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers and more paired with ranch or blue cheese dressings makes for a more nutritious appetizer ahead of the main course.
• Dips – If you’re looking for help from attendees, look no further than chips and dips for ways guests can lend a hand. Because they’re usually simple to make and easily portable, your fellow fans can bring along any combination of their choosing from buffalo chicken dip and tortilla chips to crackers and hummus.
• Sliders and Sandwiches – The combinations are just about endless for sliders with many variations of meats, cheeses, spreads and more. Keep your menu simple by choosing one type of bread, 1-2 meats and 1-2 cheeses to avoid going overboard. Guests can always add their own touches when it’s time to dig in.
• Walking Tacos or Nachos – Another personalized snack, walking tacos are an easy crowd-pleaser – all they take are taco shells and tortillas along with an assortment of your usual toppings: meat, cheese, sour cream, beans, guacamole, black olives, jalapenos and anything else your guests desire. Just line up the ingredients in separate bowls for DIY dining, and for a secondary option, provide tortilla chips to create nachos instead.

Find more game day recipes and ideas at Culinary.net.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

(Family Features) For those busy nights plan, on this simple yet savory sliders recipe. Kids are almost certain to love the taste and you will enjoy how quick and easy they are to make.

For more recipes, visit culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this delicious recipe!

Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

• 1          package slider rolls
• 1/2       cup pizza sauce
• 1/2       cup mini pepperoni
• 1 1/2    cups shredded, low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/4       cup butter, melted
• 1          teaspoon parsley flakes
• 1/2       teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2       cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• nonstick cooking spray

1. Heat oven 350º F.
2. Keeping rolls connected, cut sheet of rolls horizontally, separating tops from bottoms. Place bottom halves of rolls in baking dish.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over bottom halves. Sprinkle pepperoni over sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella over pepperoni and cover with top halves of rolls.
4. Mix melted butter with parsley flakes, dried oregano, garlic powder, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Spoon evenly over sliders.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick cooking spray to keep cheese from sticking.
6. Bake 20 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake additional 5-10 minutes or until Parmesan is melted and golden brown.
8. Cut sliders and serve immediately.

Recipe adapted from MilkMeansMore.org

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) When school is back in session, the real test for parents is not in the classroom, but in the kitchen. Between breakfast, lunch and dinner - not to mention snacks - meal planning seems endless and daunting.

With convenient options like canned ingredients on-hand, parents can have the makings of a wholesome homemade meal right at their fingertips.

Canned foods not only help cut down on prep time in the kitchen, but also deliver nutritional benefits. In fact, kids and adults who use six or more canned foods per week are more likely to have diets higher in 17 essential nutrients, according to a study published in "Nutrients." Plus, cans provide year-round access to seasonal fruits and vegetables, and keep food fresh and flavorful without the need for preservatives and additives.

From on-the-go breakfasts like Vegetable Frittata Minis to hearty dinners like this Beef and Vegetable Soup and everything in-between, a well-stocked pantry - or your "cantry" - full of canned proteins, fruits, vegetables and soups can help busy parents get through the week with creative meals they can feel good about serving their families.

For more information about the nutritional benefits of cooking with canned foods and to find flavorful recipes for the back-to-school season, visit CansGetYouCooking.com.

Tuna Sliders with Green Chilies

Recipe courtesy of Cans Get You Cooking
Servings: 12

• 1 can (5-ounce) tuna, packed in water, drained and flaked
• 1 can (4.25-ounce) chopped green chilies
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• 6 slider rolls, split
• lettuce leaves

1. In large bowl, combine tuna, green chilies, celery, red onion, mayonnaise and chopped cilantro; toss to mix well.
2. Top bottom half of each roll with lettuce leaves; top with some tuna mixture and top half of roll.

Beef and Vegetable Soup

Recipe courtesy of Cans Get You Cooking
Servings: 6

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) low-sodium beef broth
• 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) sliced carrots, drained
• 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) cut green beans
• 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) stewed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 cup cooked egg noodles

1. In 4-quart saucepan over medium-high heat, in hot oil, cook ground beef until well browned on all sides, stirring frequently. With slotted spoon, remove beef to bowl.
2. In drippings remaining in saucepan over medium heat, cook onion and garlic until tender-crisp.
3. Add beef broth, carrots, green beans, stewed tomatoes, basil and ground beef; over high heat, heat to boiling. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 10-15 minutes to blend flavors, stirring occasionally. Stir in cooked egg noodles.

Vegetable Frittata Minis

Recipe courtesy of Cans Get You Cooking
Servings: 36

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 8 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 can (8 ounces) mixed vegetables, drained
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. Heat oven to 375° F. Spray mini muffin tins with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In large bowl, beat eggs, milk, salt, pepper and basil to blend well. Stir in mixed vegetables and Parmesan cheese.
3. Fill prepared pans with egg mixture. Bake until egg mixture puffs and is just set in center, about 8-10 minutes.
4. With rubber spatula, loosen frittatas from muffin cups and slide onto platter.

Gluten-Free Pumpkin and Chocolate Chip Bread

Recipe courtesy of Cans Get You Cooking
Servings: 20 (2 loaves)

• 4 cups oat flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• pinch of salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin
• 2 cups chopped walnuts
• 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk

1. Heat oven to 350° F. Grease two 8-by-4-inch loaf pans. In large bowl, combine oat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt.
2. In large bowl using mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla, oat flour mixture and pumpkin; beat until just blended. Stir in walnuts and chocolate chips. Spoon mixture into prepared pans.
3. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes. Remove from pan. Cool completely.
4. In small bowl, stir confectioners' sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle mixture over pumpkin bread.

Source:  Cans Get You Cooking

(Family Features) Flavorful foods and cold drinks are the focal points of just about any summer gathering. Create a party atmosphere that can stand out by adding a bit of island infusion to both bites and beverages so your warm-weather soiree can soar to new heights.

To help add that island spark, an ingredient like bitters provides a potent flavor made from botanicals like aromatic herbs, bark, roots and fruit. While known for their ability to balance countless cocktails, it may come as a surprise that bitters are regarded by some chefs as a pantry staple, adding real depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. Bitters can be added to classic and contemporary cocktails and a range of cuisines to create taste-tempting creations.

Much like vanilla extract, when cooked, the alcohol in bitters evaporates, so bitters-infused recipes can be enjoyed by the whole family at your next backyard barbecue or patio party.

Center your spread around a summer favorite like Pulled-Pork Sliders with Bitters, a tangy Caribbean twist on a classic dish featuring a spicy chili rub. Coupled with a vinegar-based sauce dashed with Angostura aromatic bitters, an unmistakable culinary and cocktail essential made with the same secret recipe since 1824, the flavorful sliders make for a crowd-pleasing main course.

Add to the island vibe with a unique take on a tried-and-true sweet treat like cake. Orange Butter Sponge Cake enhances every party's dessert course with the sweet and tangy combination of citrus and bitters.

These tasty foods paired with hot temperatures call for cooling off with inventive bitters-forward drink recipes like the Queen's Park Swizzle, Angostura's signature Trinidadian cocktail, and a summertime go-to, the Traditional Mojito. These drinks balance the art of the swizzle with the tastes of tiki to provide guests with refreshing beverage options.

Whether you're an aspiring home chef, an amateur bartender or anything in between, you can elevate summer entertaining with bitters to complement an array of ingredients for exceptional entertaining all summer long.

Find more summertime food and drink recipes to savor at AngosturaBitters.com.

Pulled-Pork Sliders with Bitters

Servings: approximately 14 small sandwiches

Chili Rub:

• 3-3 1/2 pounds boneless pork shoulder roast
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil

Bitters Sauce:

• 1 can (15 ounces) unseasoned tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Nature's Intent apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Angostura aromatic bitters
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 3 large cloves garlic, chopped
• 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)

• 14 small slider buns

1. To make Chili Rub: Stir together aromatic bitters, chili powder and salt; let stand 10 minutes.
2. Cut pork shoulder across grain into 1 1/2-2-inch thick slices; trim excess fat. If needed, cut into chunks to remove some fat.
3. Rub meat with chili mixture. In 8-quart pot or 9-10-inch wide, high-sided saute pan with lid, heat oil. Add meat and brown on both sides, about 15 minutes total. Remove meat and place on plate; keep warm.
4. To make Bitters Sauce: Combine tomato sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, aromatic bitters, chili powder and garlic cloves; stir well. Pour into hot, empty pan. Simmer 5 minutes, stirring and scraping bottom of pan.
5. Return meat to pan; spoon sauce over meat. Cover and cook 1 hour and 15 minutes on low, rearranging meat halfway through cooking. Transfer meat to plate; cover with foil to keep warm.
6. To thicken sauce, if desired: Let sauce cool in pan 5 minutes then whisk in cornstarch. Bring to boil; continue to cook and whisk until slightly thickened.
7. To serve: Pull meat apart with two forks or fingers. Serve warm on buns, drizzled with sauce.

Queen's Park Swizzle

Makes: 1 cocktail

• 12-14 mint leaves
• 1 ounce fresh lime juice
• 1 ounce Demerara simple syrup
• crushed ice
• 2 ounces Caribbean rum
• 6-8 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters
• 1 mint sprig, for garnish

1. In highball glass, muddle mint leaves in lime juice and simple syrup, then fill glass with dry, crushed ice.
2. Pour rum over crushed ice and swizzle well until glass is ice cold and frosted.
3. Pack glass with more crushed ice and top with aromatic bitters. Garnish with mint sprig.

Traditional Mojito

Makes: 1 cocktail

• 1 cube brown sugar
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• 12-15 mint leaves
• 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice
• 2 ounces white rum
• 2 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters
• crushed ice
• 1 bottle club soda
• 1 mint sprig, for garnish

1. In Collins glass, muddle brown sugar cube and simple syrup, then add mint and lightly press to extract flavor. Add lime juice, rum and aromatic bitters.
2. Fill glass with crushed ice and swizzle.
3. Repack with crushed ice and top with club soda. Garnish with mint sprig.

Orange Butter Sponge Cake

• 8 ounces butter, plus additional for buttering pan
• 2 cups cake flour, plus additional for flouring pan
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon Angostura orange bitters
• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• powdered or extra-fine sugar, for dusting

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. Butter and flour two 9-inch cake pans. Sift flour three times and add baking powder and salt. Set aside.
3. With electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and creamy, about 10 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well between additions. Add vanilla and orange bitters.
4. Divide flour mixture into four portions. Set electric mixer on medium low and add flour alternately with orange juice, starting and ending with flour. Mix just until incorporated after each addition.
5. Divide batter evenly between cake pans and bake 35-40 minutes, or until cake pulls away from sides of pans. Remove from oven and cool 5 minutes in cake pans before turning out.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Pulled-Pork Sliders with Bitters, Orange Butter Sponge Cake)

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

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

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

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

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

Slow-Cooked Maple Ham

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

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

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

Holiday Ham Sliders

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

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

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

Source: ALDI