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Saturday, October 13, 2012

Slimming with Pizza and Pasta

Ultimate Spinach and Turkey Lasagna

Cheesy, meaty, and unbelievably good, this saucy lasagna is a real crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a crisp green salad.

Ingredients: olive oil, turkey breast, garlic, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, spinach, parsley, egg whites, salt, pepper, lasagna noodles, mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.

Calories: 346
Resistant Starch: 1g

Ingredient:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped (2 cups)
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 3/4 pound ground turkey breast
  • 3 cups low-sodium jarred marinara sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1 10 ounce package frozen spinach, completely defrosted and squeezed of all excess liquid
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 2 egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente according to package instructions
  • 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Preparation:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°.
  2. Heat oil in a large high-sided skillet and cook onion, stirring occasionally, until softened, 6–7 minutes. add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink and cooked through, 4–5 minutes. Add marinara, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 2–3 minutes. Remove pan from heat and cool slightly.
  3. Combine ricotta, spinach, parsley, egg whites, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  4. 4. Coat the bottom of a 14- x 11-inch lasagna pan with 1⁄2 cup sauce. arrange three lasagna noodles on the bottom of the pan. Spread 3⁄4 cup sauce evenly over noodles. Spoon 2⁄3 cup ricotta- spinach mixture evenly on top of sauce. Repeat layers two more times.
  5. Cover top with three noodles and remaining 3⁄4 cup sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly. Cut into 9 squares and serve.
 

Spaghetti and Clams
Clams have a wonderful sweet-briny flavor and add a touch of sophistication for very few calories. They’re also a good source of iron.

Ingredients: whole wheat spaghetti, unsalted butter, garlic, Manila clams, red pepper, fresh lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.

Calories: 276

Resistant Starch: 2.2g




Ingredients:
  • 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
  • 2 pounds littleneck or Manila clams, scrubbed
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation
  1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve 1⁄2 cup of the cooking water before draining. Drain pasta and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
  3. Add clams, crushed red pepper, lemon juice, and 1⁄2 cup cooking water; stir gently to combine. Cover and simmer until clams open and release their juices, about 6 minutes. Use tongs to transfer clams to a bowl.
  4. Add cooked pasta and parmesan to the skillet with sauce. Cook, tossing, 3 minutes or until slightly thickened. Divide into 4 shallow bowls and serve.

Individual Baked Mac and Cheese

What’s better than the ultimate comfort food? Your very own personal dish of it!

Ingredients: low-fat milk, flour, nutmeg, reduced-fat cheddar, Gouda cheese, reduced-fat Gruyère or Swiss cheese, cayenne pepper, pepper, elbow macaroni, unseasoned bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, thyme, parsley, olive oil or butter, salt and pepper.

Calories 433
Resistant Starch: 1.8g

Ingredient:
  • 2 1/2 cups low-fat milk (1%)
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3 ounces grated reduced-fat cheddar cheese
  • 2 ounces grated smoked gouda cheese
  • 2 ounces grated reduced-fat gruyère or swiss cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 6 cups cooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup unseasoned bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons chopped thyme
  • 2 teaspoons chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Preparation:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk and flour and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat, add nutmeg, and cook, stirring, until thickened (about 10 minutes). Add cheddar cheese, gouda cheese, gruyère or swiss cheese, and cayenne pepper; whisk until melted (1 minute). Add cooked elbow macaroni and stir to combine. In a small bowl, toss bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, thyme, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place 6 individual crocks, ramekins, or ovenproof bowls on a rimmed baking sheet; spoon 1 cup macaroni mixture into each ramekin and sprinkle each with 1/6 bread-crumb topping. Bake at 400° until topping is browned and cheese is bubbling (30-35 minutes).
(Source: Healthy Magazine)

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

How to youthfull your skin

Save your skin

All skin is not created equal, and no one has the same issues. That's why beauty expert Bobbi Brown has the know-how to answer everything skincare!

Beautiful eating

What can I add to my diet to keep my skin looking young?
 —Elizabeth Schneider, New York City

Bobbi: My derm told me that studies show people who eat vitamin-C-rich fruits and vegetables have fewer wrinkles—so load up on things like oranges, grapefruits, cauliflower, and broccoli. These foods are high in antioxidants to help fight the aging effects of sun, pollution, and time. She also said omega-3 fatty acids (think salmon and walnuts) will improve skin's elasticity. And don't forget to drink a lot of water; it's the number-one way I keep my skin looking its best.

Skin hydration

I have oily skin—should I moisturize my face?—Ashley Lewis, Philadelphia

Bobbi: Yes. Drying out oily skin sends a signal to your body to produce even more oil. Plus, most women are oily only in certain spots (like the T-zone), so you risk drying out areas like your cheeks and chin if you pass on moisturizing. Look for an oil-free product and apply a dime-size amount all over your face. You'll get a healthy dose of hydration without making your skin look slick.

A quick fix

I need a body moisturizer that is hydrating yet dries quickly. Any suggestions? — Jordan Wentz, Boston, MA

Bobbi: Some moisturizers sell themselves as "quick drying" but contain alcohol, which makes them less moisturizing -not what you want. Instead, go with a nongreasy, water-based moisturizer with humectants such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin (ingredients designed to dry quickly while creating a moisture barrier on your skin). You can easily find one for less than $5! 

Fight the flakes

My skin is so dry lately that my makeup just flakes off. Help! —Haley Shook, Tempe, AZ

Bobbi: My derm suggested a solution and it really works: layering on moisturizers. I apply a lightweight hydrating cream, then I top it off with a thicker moisturizing balm.

Lightweight lotions are water-based, so if you follow them with a thicker cream, the heavier product will help seal in the moisture from the first lotion. Revive your foundation throughout the day by dabbing on a fast-absorbing face oil.

Get serious about sun spots

I’m in my 30s and already seeing age spots on my hands. Are they reversible?
—Ana Fernandes-Rodrigues, Newark, NJ

Bobbi: Let’s call them what they really are—sun spots. They’re caused by UV exposure (why sun worshippers may start seeing spots in their 20s). A foundation stick in your skin tone can hide spots, but to get rid of them, try an OTC lightener with hydroquinone or a prescription vitamin A–based cream like Renova. If that doesn’t work, ask your derm about laser resurfacing.

Get a younger face

Will a facial really make my skin look any younger? —Sarah Sobel, Charlotte, NC

Bobbi: Anything that exfoliates your face will make you look younger (by removing dead skin and uncovering fresher skin). You don’t have to go to a fancy spa to make your skin look better, though.

Once a month, I apply an exfoliating cleanser like Origins Never A Dull Moment to my face, then step into the shower (the steam loosens dead skin cells) for 10 minutes before rinsing.

Follow up with a hydrating cream.

Stop fighting with foundation

I hate the feel of foundation but like the coverage it offers my skin. Any tips? —Jessica Gargiulo, New York City

Bobbi: Nobody likes the feel of a heavy foundation against their skin, so I'll share a few secrets I've learned along the way. First, prep your skin with a moisturizer, then mix a drop or two of that moisturizer with your foundation in the palm of your hand.

Apply with your fingers for the sheerest coverage, then top with a loose powder, which will make the foundation feel more natural. Still not happy? Try a lightweight tinted moisturizer.

Conquer cream blush

I just tried a new cream blush and am slightly breaking out. Should I toss it? —Ally Betker, St. Louis

Bobbi: Before you throw it out, wait a week, then try it again. Your outbreak could be the result of other things (like washing your pillowcases in a new detergent or something you ate). If you notice any more bumps, though, skip that blush. And know it’s not a total loss—most cosmetic counters will take back a product if it’s causing you to break out.

Master moisturizer

In the morning, I feel a film on my face. Did my skin fail to soak up my night cream? —Lara Mendizza, Boston, MA

Bobbi: Chances are, the cream may be too rich or contain an ingredient that’s not penetrating your skin. Look for one with humectants (like glycerin and hyaluronic acid), which draw moisture into the skin, as opposed to occlusive ingredients that seal in moisture (such as petrolatum). Also, make sure you’re not overapplying (follow directions on the package), and that you’re using the right product for your skin type.

This little piggy needs a pedi

My feet are in bad shape. Any tips for getting them sandal-ready?—Carrie Jablonow, West Hollywood, Calif.

Bobbi: The best way to spring-clean feet is with a really good professional pedicure. But sometimes I just can’t make it to the salon, so I rely on home maintenance. Once a week, use a pumice stone to rub a mixture of coarse salt and olive oil onto your feet; rinse. Then, three times a week, layer on a rich moisturizing cream, followed by a barrier jelly like Vaseline; do this at bedtime, and sleep in a pair of old socks.

Transform household items

It’s been a long winter, and my skin is dry all over. What’s a good at-home moisturizing fix?—Pat Gillin, Broomall, Pa.

Bobbi: Salt! I keep kosher salt by my bathtub and mix it with equal parts shower gel before applying it with a pouf to dry patches on my skin. The key is to put the mixture on in the shower before you get wet. For super soft skin, I finish with a fast-absorbing body moisturizer.

Warm up your winter

How can I look less tired and washed out in winter?
—Michelle Symasek, Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

Bobbi: Use a tinted moisturizer, which covers imperfections but has undertones to warm up your complexion. Next, apply bronzer—it's not just for summer! Dust some on your forehead, nose, chin, and neck, then rub moisturizer between your hands and press them gently over your face to create a skin-like finish that's less matte and more natural looking.

Maintain your manicure

My nails chip as soon as I get them done. What are your tricks for making a manicure last?
—Emily Berry, Scottsboro, Ala.

Bobbi: First, keep your nails short so they're less likely to knock into anything. Second, use a good-quality polish. (I've never had a problem with Essie polishes.) My manicurist, Roza Israel, also suggests reapplying a top coat every night before bed to make the polish last longer and keep it looking shiny, too.Try Essie Super Duper Top Coat ($8; http://www.ulta.com)

Fix scaly skin

I've tried every lotion and moisturizer, but my skin is still dry. What should I do?
—Lisa Wyatt, San Francisco

Bobbi: When you have tried everything and nothing seems to work, I suggest using olive oil on your body. If your face is dry, switch from a face lotion to a face balm, and make sure to use moisturizing makeup like cream blush (like Topshop Make Up Blush in Pinch, $12; topshop.com) rather than a powder. Finally, this may sound obvious, but you should definitely drink more water, because skin also gets hydration from the inside.

The dry-skin hangover

"I drank too much last night, and my skin looks so dry. What should I do?"
—Nadina Bourgeois, New York City

Bobbi: As soon as you wake up, hydrate! (If you find it hard to drink lots of water on an empty stomach, try a sports drink.) Next, apply a rich moisturizer, and let it sink in while you get dressed. When it’s time for makeup, apply a pink-cream blush ($26, clarins.com); the dewy finish and pop of color make you look refreshed—even if you don’t feel that way.

Get soft and silky hands

All of a sudden, my hands seem rough, red, and just older looking. What’s the fix?
—Brooke Brokaw Ruddy, Johnston, Iowa

Bobbi: Regular manicures keep your hands in good shape; pick a sheer cream or beige polish instead of red hues, which can make hands look ruddier. I also suggest protecting your skin every day with a hand cream that has SPF. If your hands still look rough, rub on a little olive oil—it really works to moisturize and soften skin.

Beat itchy skin

"My face feels itchy after I spend time in the cold. What can I do?"
—Lisbeth Trevisan-Stille, West Caldwell, N.J.

Bobbi: The problem is that your skin is getting really dry, which is why it's irritated and itchy. Before you go out, apply your regular moisturizer and let it sink in; then smooth on a face balm ($9; target.com). The lotion moisturizes, while the balm—which is thicker and more occlusive—creates a barrier against the cold and wind that prevents your skin from drying out.
(sources: healthy magazine)









 




Thursday, July 12, 2012

Simple Summer Dinners

Quick and easy suppers

Summer brings a wealth of fresh produce and the opportunity to fire up the grill. You can make these 8 filling seasonal meals easily and quickly, giving you plenty of time to enjoy sun and fun!

Grilled Shrimp "Souvlaki"

This Greek dish combines seafood, veggies, and plenty of herbs for a delicious, fiber-packed Mediterranean meal.

Ingredients: Large shrimp, lemons, olive oil, dill, oregano, Greek yogurt, garlic, cucumber, pepper, cherry tomatoes, whole-grain flatbreads, red onion, romaine lettuce

Calories: 353

Ponzu Grilled Salmon With Golden Beet Couscous

Salmon is rich in heart-healthy fats and protein, plus it tastes divine with this tangy, Asian-influenced sauce. Couscous adds fiber, and this recipe even sneaks in a little vitamin A-rich spinach.

Ingredients: Olive oil, shallots, golden beets, Israeli couscous, salt, spinach, oranges, brown sugar, soy sauce, sake, limes, cornstarch, crushed red pepper, salmon, cooking spray

Calories: 500





Filet Mignon With Roquefort and Red Leaf

This salad provides a rich flavor with the deliciously pungent cheese and filet mignon. You’ll also get iron, protein, and plenty of veggies in each bite.

Ingredients: Yukon Gold potatoes, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, shallot, honey, sugar, canola oil, sea salt, black pepper, yellow onion, filet mignon steaks, red leaf lettuce, tomatoes, Roquefort blue cheese

Calories: 441



Beef, Okra, and Potato Kebabs

Throw these on the grill for a smoky, low-cal meal. Okra may seem like an odd veggie to put on a kebab, but it is rich in vitamin A and absorbs the savory grilled flavor perfectly.

Ingredients: Fingerling potatoes, parsley, horseradish, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, olive oil, black pepper, salt, red bell pepper, okra, shallots, sirloin steak, yellow squash, cooking spray

Calories: 338




Jamie Oliver’s Summertime Tagliarini

The blend of pine nuts, lemons, and cheese creates the perfect savory sauce in this divine pasta. You’ll get nutty and tangy flavors in each bite, plus plenty of calcium. Try adding roasted zucchini for a boost of veggies.

Ingredients: Pine nuts, lemons, parsley, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, pecorino cheese, black pepper, sea salt, tagliarini

Calories: 444






Sesame Seed-Crusted Salmon Burger With Yogurt Sauce

This Asian-inspired recipe takes a step away from traditional burgers. Heart-healthy salmon is combined with Japanese breadcrumbs, ginger, sesame seeds, and soy sauce for a flavor-packed burger under 500 calories.

Ingredients: Salmon, baby spinach, panko, lemons, ginger, soy sauce, sesame seeds, salt, black pepper, Greek yogurt, dill, garlic, olive oil cooking spray, whole-wheat hamburger buns

Calories: 463





Heirloom Gazpacho

This tangy soup is delicious and packed with vitamin C. It works great as an appetizer, but you can also combine it with some Hearty Multigrain Bread and a summer salad like this Strawberry and Arugula Salad With Crispy Prosciutto for a complete meal.

Ingredients: Heirloom tomatoes, garlic, sugar, sherry vinegar, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, yellow and orange bell peppers, basil, large shrimp

Calories: 142





Soft Tacos With Spicy Chicken

These spicy, tender tacos will satisfy your craving for South of the Border flavors. And because oregano, cilantro, and chiles add big flavor, not big calorie counts, you can enjoy them with chips and guacamole.

Ingredients: Chicken breasts, salt, black pepper, bay leaf, oregano, chipotle chiles, red onion, white wine vinegar, olive oil, dark beer, corn tortillas, cilantro, salsa

Calories: 225




Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Meatless Made Yummy

A healthy trend

From Health magazine
If you’re like everyone these days, you’re trying to eat a little less meat to lighten up your diet or just save a few bucks. But how can you cook in a veggie-centric way and get all your nutrients? Enter The Meat Free Monday Cookbook, the brainchild of Paul McCartney and his daughters, fashion designer Stella McCartney and photographer Mary McCartney.

An offshoot of their Meat Free Monday campaign, the book shows how simple it is to go veggie one day a week. The recipes are built around produce, good fats, and alternative protein sources (whole grains, beans, soy, and nuts). Try one this Monday, or anytime you want a fresh, fast meal.

Watercress Soup with Toasted Almonds

  • Prep Time:
  • Cook Time:
  • Yield: Makes 3 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 medium onions, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 3 bunches watercress, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup plus 3 TBSP fat-free Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds

Preparation

  1. In large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; cook 3 minutes. Add potatoes; sauté 3 minutes. Add broth; simmer, covered, 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
  2. Add watercress to pan; cook 3 minutes, until wilted. In batches, purée soup in blender; return to pan. Whisk in 1/4 cup yogurt, salt, and pepper; reheat gently (do not boil). Serve with remaining 3 TBSP yogurt and almonds.

Low-cal cocktails

A delicious cocktail is the perfect way to unwind—until you see the calorie count! Your favorite drinks can contain syrups, sugary mixers, and a variety of diet no-no's.

That’s why we asked you—our creative readers—to send us your best light cocktail recipes. Here are our nine favorites so you can enjoy slim sips anytime you want.
Next: Grapefruit Mocktail 



 Edamame "Guacamole" With Chile-Dusted Pita Chips

Using edamame instead of avocados gives you 12 grams of protein, and olive oil adds in heart-healthy fats. Toss in a dash of lime juice and jalapeño, and you have a spicy, slimming snack.

Ingredients: Frozen edamame, olive oil, red onion, roasted red peppers, yellow bell pepper, limes, jalapeño, cilantro, parsley, pitas, chili powder






Sesame Seed-Crusted Salmon Burger With Yogurt Sauce

It’s not a summer cookout without seafood, so of course, this to-die-for burger is a must for your menu. Ask your store’s seafood counter to skin the salmon for you. Then you just chop, season, grill, and serve.

Ingredients: Salmon fillet, baby spinach, panko (Japanese breadcrumbs), fresh lemon juice, fresh ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, sesame seeds, salt, black pepper, fat-free Greek yogurt, fresh dill, minced garlic, olive oil cooking spray, whole-wheat hamburger buns



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Friday, June 29, 2012

Healthy Sweet Potato Recipes

Sweet, sweet potatoes


It's no surprise that sweet potatoes are at the top of nearly everyone's healthiest foods list. One baked, medium-sized sweet potato contains 438% of your daily value of vitamin A (a white potato contains 1%), 37% of your vitamin C, and some calcium, potassium, and iron too. All this at just 105 calories!

What's more, they also deliver 4 grams of dietary fiber—16% of the daily value—and absolutely zip in terms of fat.

And luckily there are many ways to whip them up. Here are 25 great (even kid-friendly!) sweet potato recipes.




Oven-Roasted Sweet-Potato Wedges
Craving french fries? Whip up these oven-roasted sweet-potato wedges instead. A healthier way to satisfy those cravings, this recipe delivers more taste too, with a kick provided by mustard, garlic, and rosemary. Try them with a dip, as a snack all by themselves, or as a side dish; they pair particularly well with lamb. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Sweet Potato Casserole

This rich and cozy dish is perfect for the holiday season, or really any time you need a hearty and healthy comfort food. The marshmallow and pecan topping will have kids (and adults!) clamoring for more.

To make this dish even healthier, use half-and-half instead of butter and lose two-thirds of the fat and half the calories. 






Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges

These wedges should be baked at a high heat, which gives them a crispy, caramelized outside and a soft and tasty inside—no frying necessary!

This peppery dish pairs particularly well with roasted meat, and delivers all of your daily vitamin A along with one-third of your vitamin C.







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