2013年7月26日星期五

Fresh papaya and chicken spring rolls

Fresh Flavors All Wrapped UpChicken, fresh papaya and cucumber are the basis for these amazingly easy and refreshing spring rolls.

Fresh papaya and chicken spring rolls recipe

These are unbelievably good! You can use a rotisserie chicken to save lots of time while making these fresh spring rolls. Fresh papaya can be a little tricky to find for some, and you can easily substitute fresh mango. These are wonderful for hot days by the pool or when you just want something light to snack on and are virtually guilt-free. Since they are not deep-fried, you don't have to worry about your waistline. Dip these rolls in either our zesty peanut sauce or in our ginger lime dipping sauce.

Fresh papaya and chicken spring rolls recipe

Serves 4 (2 rolls per person)

Ingredients:2 cups shredded chicken breast8 rice paper sheets1 small head butter lettuce, shredded or torn into pieces1 papaya, seeds removed and cut into very thin strips1 cucumber, sliced into thin stripsSmall handful of fresh mint leaves (optional)Directions:
    Have all of filling ingredients ready on a plate. Dip a sheet of the rice paper into very warm water for about 45 seconds until it softens. Lay the rice paper on a flat surface and fill with the lettuce, chicken, papaya, cucumber and a few mint leaves.Gently roll up, keeping the roll as tight as possible. Place in a baking dish with damp paper towels. Repeat with the remaining rolls.
Spicy peanut dipping sauce recipeIngredients:2 tablespoons coconut or peanut oil1 garlic clove, chopped fine1 tablespoon finely grated peeled fresh gingerroot1/2 cup creamy or chunky peanut butter1/4 cup soy sauce1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or fresh lime juice3 tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar1/4 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakesDirections:
    Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl chill until ready to use.
Ginger lime dipping sauce recipe

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon peeled and finely grated fresh ginger1/4 cup rice vinegar1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce1 teaspoon garlic powder1/4 cup honey1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste Directions:
    In a bowl mix all of the ingredients. Chill until ready to serve.
More Asian-inspired ideas

Thai peanut noodle bowls
Take-out Chinese food recipes
Sweet and spicy Asian tofu with vegetables

2013年7月24日星期三

What is binge eating disorder

Woman eating junk foodExtreme eating

We've all overeaten during the holidays or on a special occasion, but when binge eating starts to become a regular occurrence, it can be a sign of a condition known as binge eating disorder. If you feel out of control with your eating, here's what you need to know about this eating disorder.

What is binge eating disorder?

Binge eating is one of the most common eating disorders in the US. In fact, it's diagnosed more often than anorexia nervosa or bulimia. It also affects more women than men. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, people with binge eating disorder frequently eat large amounts of food, stuffing themselves even though they're full, and usually feel out of control when eating. The difference between binge eating disorder and bulimia (binge eating, then vomiting or using laxatives to rid the body of food) is that sufferers usually don't purge the food they've eaten, though some will starve themselves between episodes of bingeing.

Signs of binge eating disorderSome common symptoms a person suffering from binge eating disorder may experience include:Eating large amounts of food frequently or in one sitting.Feeling out of control when eating, when food is present or when eating can't be stopped.Eating quickly or in secret.Feeling uncomfortably full most of the time.Experiencing feelings of disgust, shame, embarrassment or depression over the quantity of food consumed.Who is at risk of developing binge eating disorder?

Even though research into binge eating disorder is relatively new, doctors have a good idea of who may be at most risk of developing the condition.

High-risk populations include:Mildly overweight and obese peopleYo-yo dietersPeople who were overweight in their youthWomen

Doctors believe people are more likely to suffer from binge eating disorder if they've experienced low self-esteem, poor body image, depression or issues with food management.

The damage of binge eating disorder

Because binge eating disorder revolves around consuming lots of calories over an extended period of time, complications are markedly similar to those of obesity.

Medical conditions that can occur due to binge eating disorder include:DiabetesHigh blood pressureIncreased HDL cholesterol levelsProblems with the gall bladderHeart diseaseCancerDepressionCardiovascular disease (caused by inactivity and being overweight)How to treat binge eating disorder

The first step to treating the condition is to speak to a doctor. A number of treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy (teaching patients ways to monitor their eating habits), psychotherapy and antidepressant medication.

If you suspect you may have binge eating disorder or any other disordered eating pattern, talk to your doctor to ensure you get help before it becomes a danger to your health.

More on eating disorders

Anorexia and bulimia: Illnesses or lifestyle choices?
Eating disorders on campus: Why you should talk to your teen
Young girls and healthy body image

Shortcuts in the kitchen Quick ways to homemade flavor

Mom and daughter making pasta

We all have busy schedules and not enough time in our days, which can make it hard to make meals completely from scratch. Just a few small additions to standard pantry items will give you a big boost in flavor and a homemade taste.

No one will ever guess you took a shortcut

It’s 5 p.m. You’ve had a long day and kicking up your feet with a glass of wine sounds perfect. But first, there’s that little matter of feeding those hungry mouths. Instead of opting for fast food, cheat a little to put a flavorful, semi-homemade meal on the table in no time. Don’t worry… we won’t tell.

Keep your pantry stocked with these 10 ingredients for a quick meal >> Spaghetti sauce

Pasta can be a lifesaver when you’re short on time. The whole meal can be on the table as quickly as you can boil water. By taking a few extra minutes with pre-made sauce, a simple spaghetti dish can turn into a gourmet affair.

Next time you pull out a jar of red pasta sauce, try this method to amp up the flavor:

Slice two strips of bacon and fry in a large pan. When crisp, remove and wipe out most of the bacon fat from the pan, leaving a small amount to cook onions in.Add a small chopped yellow onion and sauté until soft, and then add two minced garlic cloves.Add a pinch of oregano. For spice lovers, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.Add spaghetti sauce and finish as normal.Top dish with crisped bacon.CanCanned chili

If you’re in a pinch and don’t have time to soak beans or chop ingredients, canned chili makes a great hearty meal. But if you’re used to your chili packing a flavorful punch, the can may leave you a little disappointed.

For a quick fix, add a dash of these spices, or any combination, to taste:

Chili powderCayenne pepperPaprikaGarlic powderOnion powderCuminCorianderBlack pepperOregano Condensed tomato soup

This iconic pantry staple can actually taste pretty good with a few minor adjustments. And sometimes, nothing tastes better than tomato soup paired with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich.

Make these quick additions for a simple but tasty bowl of tomato soup: 

Sauté a few tablespoons of chopped shallots and a minced garlic clove in a small saucepan.Add soup.Instead of the usual can of water, stir in half milk, half water and heat through.Pour over a scoop of cooked rice.Mayonnaise

This basic condiment can turn into a spicy or tangy sandwich spread or dipping sauce in no time. The possibilities are endless in making flavor combinations that will wow you. Play around and mix a few ingredients together… you’ll never look at mayonnaise the same.

For tang: Add white wine vinegar, cider vinegar, lemon or lime juice or dry white wine.For spice: Add hot sauce, Sriracha sauce, dried chili powders or chopped jalapenos.For flavor: Add cumin, coriander or freshly chopped herbs like cilantro, parsley, dill or basil.Get more time-saving meal tips >>  More quick & easy meal ideas

15-Minute quick chicken recipe tips
Fast fix dinner: Casseroles
3 Quick & easy beef recipes using stock

2013年7月22日星期一

Herb and garlic rubbed prime rib recipe

The Ultimate
Christmas FeastAt this point, most of us are tired of turkey and ready for a little red meat by the time Christmas dinner comes around. Prime rib is the entree of choice and most people only make the effort to roast that beast once a year. While it does take some time to cook this roast recipe, don’t let it intimidate you.

Herb and garlic rubbed prime rib roast

Homemade rubs are the way to go when you are preparing prime rib. You can alter the rub to suit your tastes or to make use of any ingredients you have on hand. Feel free to mix in other herbs and spices. Serve your prime rib with a hefty side of mashed potatoes and a glass of cabernet.

Herb and garlic rubbed prime rib recipe

Serves 8

Ingredients:1-5 pound prime rib roast8 cloves garlic, pressed2 tablespoons olive oil1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped2 cups dry red wineSea salt and pepper to taste2 tablespoons cornstarchDirections:
    Place the roast fat side up in a roasting pan or roasting oven and pour red wine over the top. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary and thyme to form a paste-like consistency. Spread the mixture over the fatty layer of the roast, and let it sit out for about 30 minutes or until it is at room temperature. Stick a meat thermometer in the center and be sure it doesn't hit bone.Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F or as high as it will go if it doesn't go up to 500 degrees F.Bake the roast for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, and then reduce the temperature to 325 degrees F, and continue roasting for an additional 60 minutes. You may want to check the meat thermometer 20 minutes or so before you expect it to be done to be sure you don't overcook the meat. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the roast and the amount of fat it has. The internal temperature of the roast should be around 120 degrees F for medium-rare when you take it out of the oven. Err on the side of more rare as it will continue to cook after you take it out of the oven.Take it out of the oven, cover it with foil, and allow the roast to rest for at least 15 minutes before carving so the meat can retain its juices.Make gravy by pouring the drippings into a saucepan. Mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water. Stir until the mixture is smooth and pour into the drippings; bring to a boil. Stir and let simmer until the sauce thickens. You can also just serve the drippings as au jus without thickening it.
More recipes to serve at your holiday feast

Thyme and rosemary au gratin potato recipe
Festive cocktail recipes for the holidays
Snowflake gingerbread tree

2013年7月21日星期日

Super Bowl Sunday turkey chili recipe

A Healthier Take On A Game Day FavoriteHearty and even better the next day, chili is the perfect thing to serve at your Super Bowl party. Try this healthier version with lean ground turkey breast that gets layers of flavor from dark beer, cinnamon and other spices simmered together for just 20 minutes.

Super Bowl Turkey Chili

Packed with fiber and protein, turkey chili is sure to keep everyone energized and ready to root for their favorite team come Super Bowl Sunday.

Set up a chili bar and let everyone help themselves to a range of appetizing toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeno peppers, chives and whatever else strikes your fancy. Or, for something even more casual and fun, use the chili to top cheesy nachos that will knock your guests' socks off.

Turkey chili recipe

Serves 4 to 6

Ingredients:1 teaspoon olive oil1 medium-large onion, chopped5 cloves garlic, minced1/2 red bell pepper, chopped1 teaspoon chili powder1/2 teaspoon hot paprika1/2 teaspoon dried coriander1/4 teaspoon oreganoDash of cinnamon1 pound ground turkey breast1 cup dark beer like Leffe Brown1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes1 (15-1/2 ounce) can kidney beans, drained2 tablespoons tomato paste1 teaspoon hot sauceSalt and pepperSour cream, chopped chives, cilantro, shredded cheese for toppingsDirections:
    Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic and red pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened.Add the chili powder, hot paprika, coriander, oregano and cinnamon; stir and allow to cook until aromatic, one minute.Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until lightly browned.Pour in the beer and allow to cook down slightly.Add the tomatoes, beans, tomato paste and spicy paste or hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper.Allow to simmer, uncovered, until thickened, about 20 minutes.Top with sour cream, chopped chives, cilantro and/or shredded cheese.
More chili recipes

The ultimate Super Bowl chili
Game day chili recipes
Chili recipes for the perfect fall meal

2013年7月18日星期四

Cheesy spinach stuffing recipe

A New Twist On A Thanksgiving FavoriteWant to add some variety to your Thanksgiving menu this year? Sub out that regular herb stuffing with this cheesy, spinach stuffing instead! Made with just 10 simple ingredients, this recipe is as easy and cheap as it is delicious!

Cheesy spinach stuffing recipe

Leave the boring stuffing for the turkey and serve this decadent side dish alongside your Thanksgiving favorites. Each bite is creamy, cheesy and full of flavor. And it's loaded with tons of healthy cold-fighting antioxidants. This stuffing is the definition of feel good comfort food!

Cheesy spinach stuffing recipe

Cheesy spinach stuffing recipe

Serves about 6

Ingredients:10 ounces frozen spinach4 cups herb stuffing mix1-1/3 cups chicken broth1/2 cup chopped red onion3 cloves garlic, chopped1/2 cup chopped celeryLiberal dashes salt and pepper1 tablespoon butter2/3 -3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheeseDirections: 
    Defrost spinach according to package directions. Rinse and set aside.In a large pan, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until starting to soften, about two minutes. Add in garlic and celery and cook until fragrant, about three more minutes.Add in broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in stuffing mix. Cook until stuffing mix is softened and the broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat and stir in spinach and mozzarella until mixture is fully combined. Garnish with shredded Parmesan and enjoy!
More Thanksgiving side dish recipes

Out of the ordinary side dishes for Thanksgiving
Taste of the South Thanksgiving side dishes
Vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes

2013年7月17日星期三

Fried Nutella ravioli

Nutella Overload!Love is in the air! These simple heart-shaped raviolis are stuffed with Nutella. Lightly fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar, it's the perfect chocolaty dessert.

Fried nutella ravioli

Need a quick and easy Valentine's Day dessert? These simple Nutella raviolis will be sure to impress and no one has to know how easy they were to put together! Just a few simple ingredients and 10 quick minutes in the kitchen, and you are in dessert heaven. This is one fabulous dessert!

Fried Nutella ravioli recipe

Yields 10 raviolis

Ingredients:20 wonton wrappers1/2 cup NutellaCanola oilPowdered sugarDirections:
    Using a medium-size heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out heart shapes in the wonton wrappers.Add your Nutella to a piping bag, and pipe about 1 tablespoon into the middle of 10 of the hearts.Dip your finger in some water, go around the edge of the wonton wrapper and press another wonton wrapper onto the top. Do this with all the raviolis.Heat one inch of canola oil in large nonstick skillet. Once the oil is hot, drop in raviolis (5 at a time) and cook for about 30 seconds on each side, till browned.Sprinkle with powdered sugar and heat hot.
More Nutella recipes

Nutella nut roll recipe
Nutella banana bread recipe
Layered Nutella mousse in a jar recipe