(Family Features) The winter months provide many occasions to celebrate, and no celebration is complete without tasty treats. A perfect partner for a broad variety of flavors, popcorn is a versatile pantry staple that can be served plain or as a better-for-you addition to seasonal snacks.

With no artificial additives or preservatives, light and airy popcorn is naturally low in fat and calories, non-GMO and gluten free, making it a sensible option to satisfy cravings for something savory, sweet and just about every flavor in-between. Plus, whole-grain popcorn has energy-producing carbohydrates and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied longer.

As a way to honor one of America’s oldest and most beloved snack foods, National Popcorn Day on Jan. 19 is a perfect opportunity to pop up a bowl to enjoy with loved ones or create whole-grain culinary masterpieces like fragrant and flavorful Jamaican Jerk Popcorn, which features hot pepper, spices and jerk butter to help you warm up from the inside out. Or consider another tasty snack option like Furikake Popcorn, a lighter recipe exploding with the flavors of sesame, nori and a Japanese spice blend.

You can combine favorite flavors for movie night with Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Popcorn, which is perfect for settling in on a snowy winter’s eve, and an option like Rocky Road Popcorn Clusters, featuring chocolate, marshmallows and nuts, are perfect for sharing with loved ones after an evening meal.

Find more fun, fluffy and flavorful recipes to celebrate everything winter has to offer at Popcorn.org.

Furikake Popcorn

Yield: 2-3 servings

Furikake Seasoning:

• 1 nori sheet, broken into pieces
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar

• 6 cups popped popcorn
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

1. To make furikake seasoning: In spice grinder or using mortar and pestle, grind nori with 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds until finely ground. Transfer to small bowl; stir in remaining sesame seeds, salt and sugar.
2. In large bowl, toss popcorn with butter and furikake seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Tips: Use store-bought furikake seasoning and season to taste.
4. To toast sesame seeds: In small dry skillet over medium heat, cook sesame seeds 2-3 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Let cool completely before using.

Jamaican Jerk Popcorn

Yield: 4-6 servings

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tablespoon minced, seeded scotch bonnet chili pepper
• 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 cups popped popcorn

1. In small saucepan, combine butter, chili pepper, lime zest, chili powder, thyme, allspice, pepper, ginger, garlic powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, onion powder and salt. Cook over low heat 3-5 minutes, or until butter melts and mixture is fragrant.
2. In large bowl, toss popcorn with spice mixture until evenly coated.

Tip: Omit scotch bonnet pepper and substitute 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, if preferred.

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Popcorn

Yield: 6-8 servings (1 cup each)

• 1/4 cup nonfat Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves
• 1/8 teaspoon dried sage
• black pepper, to taste
• 12 cups air-popped popcorn
• 3/4 cup turkey pepperoni, cut into bite-size bits
• olive oil cooking spray

1. In small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, marjoram, basil, sage and pepper; mix well.
2. In large bowl, combine popcorn and turkey pepperoni; spray lightly with olive oil cooking spray.
3. Sprinkle popcorn and pepperoni with cheese mixture; toss to coat evenly.

Rocky Road Popcorn Clusters

Yield: 3 dozen

• 1 bag (6 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 4 cups popped popcorn
• 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts

1. In small microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips in microwave on high 1 minute, until melted. Stir in vegetable oil.
2. In large bowl, add popcorn, marshmallows and walnuts. Pour melted chocolate over mixture, tossing to coat.
3. Drop mixture by tablespoonful onto wax paper-lined jellyroll pan.
4. Refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours, or overnight.

Source: Popcorn Board

(Family Features) With the weather cooling, it’s the perfect opportunity to spend some time in the kitchen to try out fun recipes and create special moments with family and friends. Pancakes and waffles provide deliciously easy ways to make mornings memorable at the breakfast table with those you love.

Regardless of what you have going on during the day, a warm stack of pancakes or waffles can bring everyone to the table. Putting together a delicious, crowd-pleasing stack doesn’t have to be a big to-do with recipes like Butter Pecan Waffles and Banana Walnut Pancakes. You can make breakfast the highlight of your family’s day with just a handful of ingredients in each recipe that offer a warm, comforting twist to a breakfast time favorite. These pancake and waffle creations are delicious and easy enough to become go-tos for nearly any occasion.

One of the keys to delicious pancakes and waffles is the mix you use. Consider an option like Pearl Milling Company, which has offered delicious taste and light and fluffy texture for more than 130 years. Its pancake mix varieties are easy, convenient, delicious options for memorable breakfasts. Topped with its rich and delicious syrup, its taste and quality can be passed down to future generations.

An additional benefit: Simple yet flavorful recipes like these allow the whole family to help in the kitchen, providing bonding opportunities and valuable lessons as you make them together.

For more memory-making breakfast time ideas, visit pearlmillingcompany.com.

Butter Pecan Waffles

Yield: about 6 waffles (4 inches each)

Browned Butter:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1 cup Pearl Milling Company Original Pancake & Waffle Mix
• 3/4 cup milk, plus additional if necessary, divided
• 1 egg
• Pearl Milling Company Syrup, for topping
• toasted pecans, for topping (optional)

1. To make browned butter: In small skillet over low heat, place butter. Increase heat to medium-low, stirring butter with heat-proof spatula. Cook and stir until butter reaches desired brown color. Remove from heat and stir in pecans.
2. Place pancake mix in large bowl. Add 3/4 cup milk, egg and browned butter. Stir until large clumps of batter disappear. If batter seems too thick, add additional milk 1 tablespoon at a time to reach desired thickness. Let batter stand 4-5 minutes before cooking.
3. Pour batter into lightly greased waffle iron. Bake until steam stops or as directed by waffle iron instructions. Top with syrup and toasted pecans, if desired.

Banana Walnut Pancakes

Yield: about 20 pancakes

• 2 cups Pearl Milling Company Original Pancake Mix
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 bananas, mashed

Homemade Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Toppings:

• 1 banana, sliced, for topping
• 2 jars (5 ounces each) walnuts in syrup
• 24 ounces Pearl Milling Company Syrup

1. Place skillet over medium heat.
2. In large bowl, stir pancake mix, milk, eggs, oil and mashed bananas.
3. Spread 1/4 cup pancake batter on skillet. When pancake begins to bubble, use spatula to flip. Cook until golden brown on each side. Repeat with remaining batter.
4. To make whipped cream: In small bowl, whip heavy cream and sugar until thickened.
5. Top pancakes with homemade whipped cream, banana slices, walnuts and syrup.

Source: Pearl Milling Company

(Family Features) It’s often a challenge on cold, dreary days to pull yourself out from under the warm covers. Even though you know the importance of a satisfying breakfast before heading to work or dropping the kids off at school, that cool chill may keep you hitting snooze.

On those cold and busy mornings when breakfast seems impossible, turn to a solution like Minute Ready to Serve microwavable cups for a quick, cozy breakfast. Ready in 90 seconds or less, the cups offer a fast and easy meal that helps you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the small moments that happen when you can slow down.

When a weekday calls for an on-the-go breakfast, make quick work of your morning meal with this Breakfast Scramble for a filling option without the unnecessary additives. Made with just four ingredients – eggs, sausage, cheese and white rice – it’s perfect for a busy lifestyle. Plus, it can be customized any way you like with toppings like avocado, tomatoes, fresh herbs and more.

If you can’t go without your caffeine, start your day with this creamy Coffee Breakfast Rice Pudding as a sweet treat with a kick. Skipping that caffeine boost is fine, too – just use decaf instead. As another timesaving, customizable option, you can add fresh or canned fruit, peanut butter, syrup, honey or even melted chocolate for extra sweetness.

Visit MinuteRice.com to find more quick breakfast ideas perfect for chilly mornings.

Breakfast Scramble

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 2 minutes
Total time: 4 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 cup Minute Ready to Serve White Rice
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese
• 1/4 cup crumbled cooked sausage
• salt, to taste (optional)
• black pepper, to taste (optional)

1. Heat rice according to package directions.
2. In small, microwave-safe bowl, combine egg, cheese and sausage. Microwave on high 60 seconds, or until egg is set.
3. Transfer rice to small bowl and top with egg and sausage mixture. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, if desired.

Coffee Breakfast Rice Pudding

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 2 minutes
Total time: 4 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 cup Minute Ready to Serve White Rice
• 1/2 cup hot brewed coffee
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 small banana, sliced

1. Heat rice according to package directions. In microwave-safe bowl, stir rice, coffee, cream, sugar and vanilla.
2. Microwave on high, stirring halfway through, 60-90 seconds, or until rice is heated through, creamy and most liquid is absorbed. Let stand 2 minutes.
3. Top pudding with sliced banana.

Source: Minute Rice

(Family Features) Entertaining guests during the holidays isn’t just about a main course that calls all to the table. What often makes a festive gathering more fruitful is a spread of delicious appetizers, delightful drinks and divine desserts that keep loved ones coming back to the kitchen for more.

For appetizing dishes from the first guest at the house to the last out the door, you can heighten the flavor and appearance of favorite recipes with one simple ingredient: apples. Ranging from tart to sugary sweet, finding the right balance for your palate is key. Scent can also influence taste, especially when you have a balanced sweetness with an uplifting, fresh aroma.

Turn to an option like Envy Apples this holiday season for satisfying texture and taste with a consistently balanced, refreshing sweetness coupled with a crisp, elegant crunch. They make for an easy snack when eaten fresh out of hand but are also perfect for holding over pre-dinner appetites in small plates like this Bell-Issimo Brie Melt or Apple Stuffing Bites with Rosemary Gravy.

The versatile flavor of apples isn’t just limited to foods, however. For the adults in the room, Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider with a splash of bourbon is a seasonally appropriate way to quench thirst and break the ice. Simply omit the bourbon for a kid-friendly version so the whole party can savor a sip.

Easy to spot with their crimson red skin over a golden background that practically glows, Envy Apples offer an easy, eye-catching way to try new tastes and celebrate joyful occasions together. The bright white flesh is naturally slow to brown when sliced for a fresher flavor in sweet treats like Apple Oat Crumble and Citrus Caramel Topping for a tasty way to elevate your holiday get-togethers.

Find more sweet holiday recipes at EnvyApple.com.

Apple Oat Crumble and Citrus Caramel Topping

• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 Envy Apples, diced into large cubes
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup cold butter, diced small
• 1/2 cup caramel
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 orange, zest only
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• vanilla ice cream

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In bowl, stir together sugar and ground cinnamon.
3. Toss apples in lemon juice then in cinnamon sugar mixture. Spread in 9-inch pie dish.
4. In another bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour and oats. Using hands or fork, cut in butter until pea size crumbs form. Sprinkle evenly over apples.
5. Bake 40-45 minutes until mixture is bubbling and golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool 15 minutes.
6. In small pot, whisk caramel, salt, orange zest and orange juice until warm.
7. Spoon apple oat crumble over large scoop vanilla ice cream and top with salted citrus caramel.

Apple Stuffing Bites with Rosemary Gravy

• 1 box stovetop stuffing
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups diced Envy Apples
• 1/2 onion, diced small

Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 20 turns fresh cracked pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped rosemary

1. Preheat broiler.
2. Cook stuffing according to package directions; set aside and allow to cool slightly.
3. In large saute pan, melt butter saute apples and onion until tender. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Stir together stuffing and apple mixture. Spread stuffing on sheet tray and allow to cool in refrigerator.
5. After cooling, form stuffing into medium bites and place on sheet tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Broil bites until golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. To make gravy: In small pot, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook flour 1 minute, whisking frequently.
8. Whisk in beef broth, salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce; bring to boil, whisking frequently. Remove from heat and stir in rosemary. If desired, continue gently simmering gravy to thicken.
9. Arrange stuffing bites in serving dish and drizzle with gravy. Serve hot.

Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider

• 1 Envy Apple, diced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
• 2 ounces bourbon
• 4 ounces pumpkin spice apple cider
• demerara sugar
• Envy Apple slices, for garnish
• rosemary, for garnish
• cinnamon stick, for garnish

1. In pan over medium heat, saute diced apples in butter and pumpkin spice 5-10 minutes.
2. In glass, combine bourbon and pumpkin spice apple cider; top with sauteed apples.
3. Add demerara sugar then garnish with apple slices, rosemary and cinnamon stick.

Bell-Issimo Brie Melt

• 1 round brie (6-8 ounces)
• 2 Envy Apples
• 1/4 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• firm crackers

1. Unwrap brie and place on microwave-safe dish. Cut off top of brie round and microwave 60 seconds until middle is soft.
2. Slice apples into thick wedges.
3. Top brie with half the apples, crushed walnuts and dried cranberries.
4. Serve with firm crackers and remaining apple wedges.

Source: Envy Apples

(Family Features) With all the hustle and bustle of typical mornings, it can be easy to fall into a rut when it comes to serving your family balanced, nutritional breakfasts. However, building the “most important meal of the day” around delicious proteins – like sausage and bacon – can provide a scrumptious start and help reduce hunger and snack cravings.

When you have flavorful, high-quality and easy-to-make ingredients on-hand like those from Farmer John, including pork sausage, sausage links and thick-cut bacon, great-tasting breakfast recipes like Sausage and Egg Breakfast Tacos and Bacon Tater Tot Cast-Iron Casserole can be made at the drop of a hat.

In addition to offering tasty protein options for any meal of the day, Farmer John is also on a mission to give back. As a member of the Southern California community for more than 90 years, it is committed to being a good neighbor, which is why it launched year two of the California Commitment Tour, an initiative to help support California residents and the neighborhoods where they live. By delivering free grab-and-go lunches to local heroes and essential businesses, such as health care facilities, youth empowerment centers, grocery retailers and postal establishments, and donating much-needed protein to local food banks, the tour served as a way to feed, celebrate and support the area.

For more delicious breakfast recipes, visit FarmerJohn.com.

Sausage and Egg Breakfast Tacos

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

Chimichurri:

• 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced
• 2 jalapenos, diced small
• 1 bunch cilantro, roughly chopped
• 2 lemons, juice only
• 1/2 cup seasoned vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 2 packs Farmer John Classic Pork Sausage, browned
• 1 dozen eggs
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 cup half-and-half
• olive oil
• 12 yellow corn tortillas
• 16 ounces salsa roja (optional)

1. To make chimichurri: In mixing bowl, combine scallions, jalapenos and cilantro with lemon juice, vinegar, sugar, salt and red pepper flakes. Set aside until ready to use.
2. In hot skillet, fry sausage until cooked through and golden brown.
3. Scramble eggs; add salt and half-and-half.
4. In hot pan over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Add enough eggs to cover pan. Let eggs cook, using spatula to move them around until cooked thoroughly and scrambled. Set aside and repeat with remaining eggs.
5. On hot griddle or pan, heat corn tortillas until warm.
6. On separate plates, place two tortillas and divide eggs to fill 12 tacos. Add sausage, chimichurri and salsa, if desired.

Bacon Tater Tot Cast-Iron Casserole

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

• 16 ounces Farmer John Classic Bacon, diced
• 6 eggs
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen tater tots
• 3 cups cheddar jack cheese, shredded
• 1 jar (12 ounces) hot or regular tomato salsa
• 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced

1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
2. In cast-iron pan over medium heat, cook bacon 5-8 minutes. Place on plate lined with paper towels. Reserve grease.
3. Scramble eggs with milk, salt and reserved bacon drippings until thoroughly mixed.
4. Layer 1/3 of tater tots on bottom of cast-iron pan; add 1/3 of cooked bacon, 1 cup cheese and 4 ounces salsa; repeat twice to use remaining bacon, cheese and salsa. Pour scrambled eggs on top.
5. Bake 25-30 minutes. Halfway through cooking, add scallions and rotate pan.
6. Let cool 5 minutes.

Source: Farmer John

(Culinary.net) There are few things better than festive holiday celebrations. Everyone is gathered around the table, ready to eat and enjoy the company. The atmosphere is joyful, the decorations are beautiful and the food is absolute perfection.

From warm casseroles to hearty proteins, most spreads are made of an array of colors with mouthwatering sides and desserts. However, there are some dishes the holidays just can’t happen without. One is a classic, traditional Sweet Cranberry Sauce. It’s popping with color and texture. Plus, it makes everything it tops taste just a little bit better.

This sauce is perfect for nearly any holiday celebration but is also a sweet treat that can be served over vanilla ice cream for dessert. It’s fruity with a hint of citrus and flavorful with a dash of ground cinnamon and a bit of ginger.

This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving and works well into the holiday season for all the other celebrations that likely dot your calendar. It’s a timeless dish but with a fresh and tangy twist that’s perfect for both gatherings with many guests or simple nights at home with those leftovers you just can’t resist.

Find more recipes perfect for celebrating the holidays 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!

Sweet Cranberry Sauce

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8

• 12        ounces cranberries
• 1          cup granulated sugar
• 1/4       cup orange juice
• 1/2       cup water
• 1 1/2    tablespoons ginger paste
• 1/8       tablespoon salt
• 1/4       teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2          tablespoons orange zest
• vanilla ice cream (optional)

1. In large skillet over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, ginger paste, salt, ground cinnamon and orange zest.
2. Bring to simmer. Stir until thickened to desired consistency, 15 minutes.
3. Cool 30 minutes. Transfer to bowl. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes. Serve alone or over vanilla ice cream, if desired.

(Family Features) Along with the delicious food, gift giving and cheer of the holiday season, getting together with friends and family is also cherished. Whether it’s a cozy weekend dinner with friends or time for festive merrymaking, you can enhance any gathering with unique small plates and appetizers.

Make the season special with California grapes, which are abundant into January, as an ingredient in your favorite dishes or by decorating with them for colorful pops of red, green and black. If time is of the essence, they also offer an easy, fresh, healthy snack or side dish that adds color and flavor to your table.

As a versatile ingredient that adds taste and visual appeal, grapes can help you create memorable appetizers that will surprise and delight friends and family. For easy and delightful hors d’oeuvres, turn to Tricolor Grape Pizza with Goat Cheese and Thyme or Smoked Chicken and Grape Bruschetta, each offering simple yet flavorful ways to please a crowd.

Send guests home with Easy Grape Compote, or give it as a fun host or hostess gift for friends and family, so they can enjoy a little taste of the holidays even after all the excitement winds down.

Find more tasty appetizers, meals, desserts and more at grapesfromcalifornia.com.

Tricolor Grape Pizza with Goat Cheese and Thyme

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

• 1 pound prepared pizza dough
• flour
• 2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cups halved green, red and black California grapes
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
• 2 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• freshly ground pepper, to taste

1. Position rack in bottom of oven and place inverted baking sheet on top of rack; heat oven to 500 F.
2. On lightly floured surface, press pizza dough into 10-inch round circle and cover with towel while preparing toppings.
3. Sprinkle large baking sheet lightly with flour. Stretch pizza dough into oval, about 14-by-10 inches, and place on sheet. Drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with grapes, thyme and walnuts. Place baking sheet on top of sheet already in oven and bake until crust is bubbling and golden, 8-10 minutes.
4. Remove pizza from oven. Sprinkle with goat cheese and Parmesan. Season with pepper, to taste. Transfer pizza to board, cut into pieces and serve warm.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 350 calories; 10 g protein; 47 g carbohydrates; 14 g fat (36% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 5 mg cholesterol; 580 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.

Smoked Chicken and Grape Bruschetta

Yield: 24 pieces

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 French bread baguette
• 8 ounces smoked chicken breast (1 3/4 cups), shredded or cut into bite-size strips
• 1 1/2 cups red, green or black seedless California grapes, halved
• 12 ounces fontina, port salute or Monterey Jack cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon chives, snipped
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1. Preheat broiler to 550 F.
2. In small bowl, combine garlic, olive oil and salt. Set aside. Slice baguette on bias into 1/2-inch thick slices. Brush baguette slices with garlic-oil and place on cookie sheet. Toast in broiler about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from broiler.
3. On each bread slice, place about 1 tablespoon chicken breast and three grape halves then top with 2 tablespoons grated cheese.
4. Place cookie sheet about 8 inches away from broiler and broil 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Place on serving platter and sprinkle with snipped chives and pepper.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 125 calories; 7 g protein; 9 g fat (68% calories from fat); 3 g carbohydrates; 24 mg cholesterol; less than 1 g fiber; 154 mg sodium.

Easy Grape Compote

Prep time: 5 minutes, plus cooling
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

• 4 cups black or red California grapes
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 strips fresh lemon peel
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon high-quality balsamic vinegar (optional)

1. In bowl of food processor, finely chop grapes and sugar using one-second pulses. Transfer to deep, medium skillet or wide saucepan; stir in lemon peel, salt and water. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Cover pan with lid, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 18 minutes until fruit is tender.
2. In small bowl, stir lemon juice and cornstarch then stir into grape mixture with butter; simmer 6 minutes, or until desired consistency. Stir in vinegar, if desired. Serve warm or cool.
3. Cooled jam can be stored in covered glass jar in refrigerator up to 2 weeks.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 160 calories; 0 g protein; 41 g carbohydrates; 0 g fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 170 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.

Festive, Fruitful Decor

Naturally beautiful, fresh grapes make for an easy, classic way to decorate for the holidays. Consider these ways to enhance your home and table:

• Drape bunches of red, green and black grapes in decorative bowls and alternate with candles for dazzling centerpieces.
• Fill a flower vase with grapes and water for color and texture to complement and support the flowers in the arrangement.
• Bedazzle your ham or turkey platter with small bunches of grapes and fresh herbs.
• Accent a perfectly cooked steak with grape rosemary skewers for a colorful, fragrant sidekick.
• Adorn dessert plates and trays with sugar-frosted grapes to add a special sparkle.

Source: California Table Grape Commission

(Family Features) Many holiday hosts tend to pull out their most treasured family recipes when entertaining loved ones. After all, taste is the most important aspect of most holiday spreads, particularly when it comes to favorite baked goods and desserts.

Put a better-for-you twist on your baked classics this holiday season by swapping out less healthy cooking fats like butter, canola oil and vegetable oil with an option like Pompeian Light Taste Olive Oil. Ideal for baking desserts like this Lemon Cake or Sugar Cookies with Orange Glaze, as well as frying, this light tasting olive oil provides a healthier take on your holiday recipes without impacting the taste you and your guests love. This olive oil is high-quality and authentic, backed by a brand that has been perfecting the craft of olive oil since 1906.

Find more better-for-you holiday recipe inspiration at Pompeian.com/recipes.

Lemon Cake

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Servings: 30

• 1 1/3 cups Pompeian Light Taste Olive Oil, plus additional for oiling pan
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tablespoons grated lemon zest, plus additional for garnish (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup limoncello
• powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
• dried sweetened lemon rings, for garnish (optional)

1. Heat oven to 350 F. Oil 8-by-12-by-2-inch pan with olive oil and line bottom with parchment paper.
2. In bowl, whisk flour, sugars, salt, baking soda and powder. In another bowl, whisk 1 1/3 cups olive oil, milk, eggs, lemon zest, juice and limoncello. Add dry ingredients; whisk until just combined.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 60-75 minutes until top is golden and cake tester comes out clean. Transfer cake to rack and let cool 30 minutes.
4. Run knife around edge of pan, invert cake onto rack and let cool completely, 2 hours.
5. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, lemon zest and lemon rings right before serving, if desired.

Sugar Cookies with Orange Glaze

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 36

Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cake sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup Pompeian Light Taste Olive Oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2-3 tablespoons unsweetened milk of choice

Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar, plus additional if needed, for thickening
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

• orange slices or blood orange slices, for topping
• sugar, for topping

1. To make cookies: Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly grease baking sheet.
2. In large bowl, stir flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt to combine.
3. Add olive oil, vanilla extract and almond extract. Stir until crumbly dough forms.
4. Add 2 tablespoons milk; stir until soft dough ball forms, adding more milk if needed.
5. Place dough ball on lightly floured surface. Roll out dough until 1/4-inch thick. Using jar lid or other circular object, cut out cookies; place on baking sheet. Repeat until all dough is used.
6. Bake 8-10 minutes; do not overbake. Set aside to cool.
7. To make glaze: In small bowl, stir powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons orange juice and salt until thick glaze forms. Add more juice, if needed, to thin out glaze or add more powdered sugar to thicken.
8. When cookies are cooled, glaze them. Top with orange slices or blood orange slices and pinch of sugar.

Source: Pompeian Oils & Vinegars

This season, when you’re craving something sweet, try this Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips. It’s rich with lots of semi-sweet chocolate chips but also has a prominent pumpkin flavor that is hard to resist.

This recipe is easy to make and provides an opportunity to get the little ones involved in the kitchen. For example, they can stir and pour those yummy chocolate chips into the batter.

Made start to finish in less than an hour, this dessert gives you more time to rake leaves, carve pumpkins and cuddle up by the fireplace.

It can be a perfect treat for get-togethers from parties and events to just a couple friends enjoying each other’s company.

It’s light and moist with a crisp exterior. The signature pumpkin taste blends with the sweet chocolate to create a unique taste perfect for fall.

Find more seasonal dessert 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!

Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 45-50 minutes

Servings: 12

•             Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 1/2    cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1/2       teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2       teaspoon baking soda
• 2          teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1          cup canned pumpkin
• 1/3       cup brown sugar
• 1/3       cup granulated sugar
• 1/2       cup vegetable oil
• 3          eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2       tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1          cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1          cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray 8-by-4-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and line with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In large bowl, whisk flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda and pumpkin spice. Set aside.
3. In medium bowl, combine canned pumpkin, brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla extract. Stir together.
4. Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into loaf pan. Bake 45-50 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
7. Cool at least 10 minutes in pan before removing to wire rack to finish cooling.

(Family Features) Among the decorations, gifts and gatherings of loved ones, there’s perhaps nothing quite like family favorite foods that call to mind the joy of the holidays. Whether your loved ones relish building gingerbread houses or dining on an all-in feast, looking forward to annual traditions is part of what makes the season so special.

This year, you can add to the fun with a new annual activity by creating a delightful dessert with the help of little ones and adults alike. With an easy recipe like Peanut Butter Saltine Candy that calls for just a handful of ingredients, you can get the whole family involved in the kitchen.

Ask your little helpers to measure out ingredients while a grownup prepares the pan and uses the stove. Once the base is finished baking, call the kids back to sprinkle chocolate chips and peanut butter chips over the top.

After your candy creation is cooled, just break it into pieces meant to be shared with the entire family. An added benefit: all can enjoy the nutrient-rich flavor of peanuts, which rise to superfood status by delivering 19 vitamins and minerals and 7 grams of protein per serving.

Find more holiday recipes at gapeanuts.com .

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Peanut Butter Saltine Candy

Yield: 45 pieces

•             Nonstick cooking spray (butter flavor)
• 1          sleeve (4 ounces) regular saltine crackers
• 1/2       cup butter
• 3/4       cup creamy peanut butter
• 1          cup granulated sugar
• 2          cups milk chocolate chips
• 1/2       cup peanut butter chips
• 1/2       cup rough chopped, dry roasted peanuts

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Line 10-by-15-by-1-inch pan with aluminum foil. Spray foil with nonstick cooking spray then lay saltines flat in single layer on prepared pan. Set aside.
2. In heavy duty, 1-quart saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, peanut butter and sugar. Stir constantly until butter and sugar are melted, bringing mixture to boil. Boil 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour cooked mixture over saltines and bake 5 minutes.
3. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over saltines. Let cool 3 minutes then spread melted chocolate completely over saltines.
4. Sprinkle peanut butter chips evenly over chocolate. Return pan to oven 1 minute to soften chips. Pull pointed tines of fork through softened peanut butter chips to partially cover chocolate. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top, gently pressing into candy.
5. Let cool on rack about 15 minutes then place in freezer 3 minutes. Remove from freezer and break into pieces. Store in airtight container.

Source:  Georgia Peanut Commission