(Family Features) Warming weather brings with it plenty of opportunities to celebrate from holidays and birthdays to sunny afternoons offering an excuse to spend time outdoors with loved ones. Dining al fresco brings added freshness to favorite foods, and taking your next meal to the patio can be a fun, delicious way to soak in some vitamin D.

Pasta provides an easy option for sharing with a crowd, like this Creamy Tomato Smoked Sausage and Asparagus Tortellini. A cheesy, filling delight, it’s ready to enjoy in less than half an hour.

Plus, locally grown Michigan Asparagus adds an extra level of freshness requiring just about three days to travel from family farms in Michigan to your kitchen. It doesn’t need a passport to make it from farm to table, and you won’t need one either to enjoy this Italian-inspired dish in the comfort of home.

The thicker spears offer texture and additional flavor that’s also more tender because the fiber is less concentrated. Just 5-8 minutes in boiling water results in firm and delicious spears. This pasta dish calls for a late addition to the already-simmering sauce and tortellini so you can count on perfectly cooked asparagus as the finishing touch.

It’s also a sustainably produced ingredient as Michigan’s asparagus season primarily relies on the weather and uses rainwater rather than irrigation. As a nutrient-dense, low-calorie vegetable with no fat, no cholesterol and little sodium, it’s a family favorite you can feel good about serving your loved ones.

Find more patio-friendly recipe ideas at michiganasparagus.org.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Creamy Tomato Smoked Sausage and Asparagus Tortellini

Recipe courtesy of the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board
Servings: 6

• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1          pound smoked turkey sausage, sliced into bite-sized rounds
• 1          clove garlic, minced
• 1 2/3    cups chicken broth
• 1          can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 3/4       cup heavy cream
• 18        ounces cheese tortellini
• 1/2       pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

1. In large rimmed skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sausage and brown on both sides. Add garlic and stir until golden, 20-30 seconds.
3. Add broth, tomato sauce, cream and tortellini; stir to combine. Bring to light simmer.
4. Cover and simmer over low heat 10 minutes. Add asparagus during last 5 minutes of cooking until tortellini is tender and sauce has reduced.

Source: Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board

(Family Features) Even if Easter hosting duties fell on your plate this year and added one more thing to your holiday to-do list, that doesn’t mean it has to be difficult. After all, Easter is a time meant for fun and fellowship with the food just one part of the celebration.

Building the menu around simple, one-pan dishes can keep the focus where it needs to be: spending time and creating memories with family and friends. These dishes call for short lists of ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry, and simple preparation to create a full spread perfect for sharing with loved ones. Plus, using only one pan makes cleanup a breeze, so you can get back to the festivities quickly.

A dish like this Easter Roast lets you check both the main course and side dishes off your list, relying on the oven to do most of the work for you after some quick prep work. Similarly easy to prepare, these Refrigerator Rolls can also be made up to six days in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to bake – a perfect complement to the savory roast and veggies.

Finish off your feast with an adaptable dessert like this Blueberry Crumble. Made using just five ingredients and ready in about an hour, you can swap the blueberry pie filling and yellow cake mix for any combination that suits your guests’ tastes like apple pie filling with spice cake or cherry pie filling with chocolate cake; the sky’s the limit when it comes to satisfying that sweet tooth.

For more Easter recipe inspiration, visit Culinary.net.

Easter Roast

Yield: 1 roast

• Salt
• pepper
• garlic powder
• 1 roast (3 pounds)
• 1 bag (1 pound) baby carrots
• 1 bag (1 1/2 pounds) trio potatoes or potato of choice
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 can (10 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 tablespoon garlic pepper
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 1 bundle asparagus

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Sprinkle salt, pepper and garlic powder over roast and rub into front, back and sides. Place seasoned roast in middle of large roasting pan.
3. Place carrots on one side of roasting pan and potatoes on other side.
4. In large bowl, mix beef broth and cream of mushroom soup with garlic pepper. Pour mixture over roast, potatoes and carrots. Sprinkle brown sugar over carrots and add chopped onion. Cover and cook 2 1/2 hours then remove from oven, add asparagus and cook uncovered 30 minutes.
5. Serve from pan or place on platter for more formal presentation.

Refrigerator Rolls

Yield: 18 rolls

• 2 packages yeast
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 cups lukewarm water
• 6-7cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 stick softened butter
• oil, divided

1. In large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in lukewarm water. When yeast is foamy, add 3 cups flour. Mix in salt, eggs and butter.
2. Once mixed well, add remaining flour 1 cup at a time and knead dough into ball in bowl. Remove dough from bowl and place on clean surface.
3. Wash and dry bowl then grease with drizzle of oil. Place dough in bowl and let rise 1 hour or store in refrigerator if making in advance.
4. When ready to use, grease muffin pan with oil. Roll dough into hand-size balls and place in each muffin hole; cover 1 hour.
5. Heat oven to 350 F. Bake rolls 30 minutes.
6. Note: Dough can be made in advance and stored in refrigerator up to six days. If making ahead, punch down dough, cover and place in refrigerator. Punch down daily until ready to use.

Blueberry Crumble

Yield: 1 cake

• 1 can blueberry pie filling
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 bag (4 ounces) chopped pecans
• 1 stick butter, melted
• 1/4 cup oil
• whipped cream, for serving (optional)
• vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Spread pie filling on bottom of 9-by-11-inch pan. Sprinkle cake mix and pecans on top. Do not mix.
3. Drizzle melted butter and oil on top of cake mix and pecans. Do not mix. Lift pan and tilt from side to side until cake mix is completely covered in butter.
4. Bake 1 hour until golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) Family reunions, birthday celebrations and holiday gatherings all bring loved ones together for special occasions that call for delicious meals and snacks. To help elevate entertaining in your household, make hosting a cinch with quick, shareable recipes.

Pizza, for example, is a nearly universally beloved dish ideal for sharing. This version is simple, fresh and perfect for entertaining guests or just for a night in with fresh mozzarella, Prosciutto di Parma and fresh basil.

For savory seasonal flavor, look no further than Sweet Potato Rounds topped with fried sage leaves, goat cheese and prosciutto. When guests arrive, greet them with easy hors d’oeuvres that balance wellness with indulgence like this Crudites Platter or Fresh Snack Board.

To help ensure the freshest of ingredients in these tasty appetizers, look for the “Parma Crown” on packages of Prosciutto di Parma, which you can find pre-packaged or available for slicing at many gourmet deli counters and specialty food stores. Containing no additives, preservatives or hormones, Parma ham contains no additives, preservatives or hormones and is 100% natural. Aged twice as long as many other options, it creates a depth of flavor that’s delicate and sweet-savory with a buttery texture.

Find more easy appetizers perfect for entertaining at parmacrown.com.

Fresh Snack Board

• 1/3 pound Prosciutto di Parma
• 1 apple, sliced
• 1 handful pecans, walnuts or almonds
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup fig jam
• 1/2 pound sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
  crackers

1. On charcuterie board or platter, arrange prosciutto, apple slices, nuts, pomegranate seeds, fig jam and cheddar cheese slices. Serve with crackers.

Prosciutto Pizza

Yield: 8 slices

• Olive oil
• flour
• 1 container (16 ounces) store-bought pizza dough
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, cubed
• 5 slices Prosciutto di Parma
• 6 fresh basil leaves

1. Remove dough from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature at least 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 500 F. Grease baking sheet with olive oil.
2. Roll out pizza dough onto floured work surface to form oblong shape about 16 inches long and 12 inches wide. Remove to oiled baking sheet and stretch out edges to fill length of baking sheet.
3. Bake 4 minutes. Remove from oven and evenly spread tomato sauce over surface, leaving 1/2 inch from edges bare. Dot with mozzarella. Bake until edges are golden and mozzarella is bubbling, about 12 minutes.
4. Drape prosciutto over mozzarella. Garnish with fresh basil.

Sweet Potato Rounds

Yield: 16-20 rounds

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 bunch fresh sage, stems removed
• 4 ounces goat cheese
• 8 slices Prosciutto di Parma, halved

1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Line baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Peel and slice sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch rounds. In medium bowl, toss sweet potatoes with oil and lightly season with salt, to taste. Arrange rounds in single layer on prepared pan; bake until sweet potatoes are lightly browned and tender, about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. In small skillet over medium heat, bring butter to simmer. Add half the sage leaves. Cook until crispy, 2-3 minutes. Remove to paper towel and season lightly with salt, to taste. Repeat with remaining sage leaves. Reserve 2 teaspoons butter. In small food processor, combine goat cheese and reserved butter; whirl until smooth.
3. To make rounds, remove goat cheese to plastic zip-top bag. Cut off one corner and pipe small dollops of cheese onto each round. Top with half slice prosciutto and one crispy sage leaf.

Crudites Platter

Platter:

• 8 asparagus
• water
• 2 soft-boiled eggs
• 5 baby carrots, halved lengthwise
• 4 radishes with tops, halved lengthwise
• 1 head little gem lettuce, quartered
• 6-8 slices Prosciutto di Parma

Dip:

• 2 teaspoons white miso
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon water
• 1/2 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons chopped herbs (dill, tarragon or parsley)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• fresh black pepper, to taste

1. To make platter: Trim asparagus. To blanch, bring pot of water to boil and place asparagus in pot 2-3 minutes. While asparagus is cooking, fill large bowl with ice water. After 3 minutes, plunge asparagus in ice bath and let cool.
2. To soft-boil eggs, bring pot of water to boil. Gently place room temperature eggs in water and simmer 3-4 minutes. Remove eggs with slotted spoon and cool under running water.
3. Serve asparagus and eggs alongside baby carrots, radishes and little gem lettuce. Drape prosciutto slices over some vegetables and between others.
4. To make dip: In small bowl, whisk miso, lemon juice and water until smooth. Add yogurt, herbs and salt. Season generously with cracked pepper, to taste; mix and serve with platter.

Source: Prosciutto di Parma

(Family Features) Nothing makes family time special quite like a homemade meal, especially one made with locally sourced ingredients that are as fresh and flavorful as they are thoughtfully prepared.

Whether your gatherings with loved ones take place in the family kitchen, on the patio or at a picnic area, this Asparagus, Bacon and Egg Salad makes for a perfect brunch or appetizer that leans on local ingredients like Michigan asparagus, which takes just about three days to get from the field to your table. Grown by more than 100 family farmers, it can be found in your local store at 1-4 days old, compared to 10-20 days old for imported asparagus.

Local means fresh, which makes for an especially delicious meal, but it also means sustainability. Because the Michigan asparagus season relies on the weather and uses rainwater instead of irrigation, it makes for a sustainable product that’s environmentally friendly.

As a nutrient-dense, low-calorie vegetable with no fat, no cholesterol and little sodium, it’s also easy to prepare – just don’t overcook it. Look for thicker spears at the store, as they tend to have greater texture and more flavor and tenderness because the fiber is less concentrated.

Visit michiganasparagus.org to find more flavorful recipes to share with your nearest and dearest.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Asparagus, Bacon and Egg Salad

Recipe courtesy of Ashley from “Cheesecurd in Paradise” on behalf of the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board

• 6          bacon slices
• 1          pound fresh Michigan asparagus, ends trimmed
• 1/3       cup olive oil
• 2          tablespoons champagne vinegar
• 1          tablespoon honey
• 1          tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1/2       teaspoon black pepper
• 4          hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered
• 2/3       cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4       cup sliced green onion

1. In skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove from pan. Set aside.
2. Cut asparagus into four pieces. Add asparagus to same skillet used to cook bacon. Cook until fork tender, about 4 minutes, depending on thickness of asparagus.
3. While asparagus cooks, prepare dressing. Whisk oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. Chop bacon.
5. Remove asparagus from pan and place on platter. Top with chopped bacon, eggs, tomatoes and green onion. Pour dressing over top.

Source: Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board

(Family Features) Healthy eating doesn’t have to be difficult or require you to take favorite meals off your family’s menu. In fact, making smart choices when cooking at home can give you more control over the types of tasty, heart-healthy dishes you put on the table.

High cholesterol is one of the major controllable risk factors for heart disease and stroke, with about 38% of American adults diagnosed with high cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association. These cooking tips can help you prepare heart-healthy meals that could help improve cholesterol levels by reducing excess saturated fat and trans fat.

Cook Fresh Vegetables the Heart-Healthy Way
Roasting, steaming, grilling or baking can help bring out the natural flavors of vegetables. Adding herbs and spices can also help make veggies tastier, including combinations like basil with tomatoes, oregano with zucchini, dill with green beans or rosemary with peas and cauliflower.

Reduce Saturated Fat in Meat and Poultry
The amount of saturated fat in meats can vary widely, depending on the cut and how it’s prepared. Opt for poultry and fish over red meat and look for lean cuts of meat with minimal visible fat, which should be trimmed away before cooking. Also limit processed meats such as sausage, bologna, salami and hot dogs, which are often high in calories, saturated fat and sodium.

Use Liquid Vegetable Oils in Place of Solid Fats
Some fats are better for you than others. Liquid vegetable oils such as canola, safflower, sunflower, soybean and olive oil can often be used instead of solid fats, such as butter, lard or shortening. If you must use margarine, try the soft or liquid kind.

Find more heart-healthy recipes and tips for lowering cholesterol at heart.org/cholesterol.

Grilled Tequila-Lime Chicken with Grilled Asparagus

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association
Servings: 4

• 1/4 cup tequila or white vinegar
• 2 teaspoons lime zest
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper canned in adobo sauce, minced, plus 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fat discarded
• nonstick cooking spray
• 3 bunches asparagus spears, trimmed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 2 tablespoons canola oil or corn oil

1. In small bowl, stir tequila, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, chipotle pepper and adobo sauce. Pour into large resealable plastic bag. Add chicken and seal bag tightly; turn bag to coat. Refrigerate 2-12 hours.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly spray grates with nonstick cooking spray.
3. In large dish, sprinkle asparagus with salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Drizzle with oil. Turn asparagus over to coat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade. Discard marinade and wipe most of it off chicken. Sprinkle chicken with remaining pepper.
5. Grill 8-12 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink in center. Transfer to plate and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Place asparagus on grill, facing opposite direction of grates. Grill 7 minutes, or until tender crisp.
7. Serve asparagus with chicken.

Frozen Yogurt Bark

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association
Servings: 8

• 1 1/2 cups 2% low-fat plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons chopped, unsalted almonds
• 1/2 cup chopped mango
• 1/4 cup blackberries or raspberries
• 1/2 cup blueberries

1. In medium bowl, mix yogurt and honey.
2. Line 9-by-13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Use spatula or knife to spread yogurt over entire bottom of dish.
3. Pour chopped nuts over yogurt. Use fingers to slightly press into yogurt. Top yogurt with mango, blackberries and blueberries and slightly press into yogurt.
4. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and place in freezer overnight.
5. To serve: Lift parchment paper from baking dish onto cutting board. Use hands to break bark into pieces.

Source: American Heart Association

(Family Features) As rays of sunshine light up backyards and patios, many families take their meals outdoors to enjoy the warm weather while sharing special moments together. More time spent eating meals on the deck or patio calls for recipes that fit your al fresco theme from plant-forward takes on traditional summer fare to platters and spreads that offer everyone something to smile about.

For a unique twist on the classic backyard burger, prepare fresh Falafel Burgers with Cucumber Sauce that provide a plant-based way to emphasize nutrition at the center of your plate. As a trendy way to rethink summer cooking, this family-friendly recipe keeps flavor top of mind while adding plants to the menu.

If lunchtime or snacking in the sunshine calls for an even lighter dish, this Mediterranean Platter offers an opportunity for stylish expression that can be prepared ahead of time. As a simple snack that encourages people to gather and socialize, it’s a perfect summer spread that combines veggies, hummus, cheese and pita bread.

Visit Aramark’s Feed Your Potential website, fyp365.com, to find more ways to celebrate the season.

Mediterranean Platter

Recipe courtesy of Aramark

• 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 3 3/4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 cup diced tomato
• 1 cup diced English cucumber
• 1 tablespoon diced dill pickle
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onion
• 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped
• 1 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 3 cups hummus
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 1/4 cups pitted mixed olives
• 6 pita breads, warmed and quartered

1. In bowl, mix lemon, 1/4 teaspoon salt and sugar. Cover and chill 2-6 hours. Dice lemon. Mix diced lemon and 1/4 teaspoon olive oil. Cover and chill.
2. Mix diced lemon, tomato, cucumber, pickle, green onion, parsley, vinegar, 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cover and chill.
3. Lightly oil grill rack and heat grill to medium. Mix pepper, asparagus, remaining oil and remaining salt.
4. Grill asparagus 2 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Let cool. Cover and chill.
5. Set large serving platter on work surface. Place hummus and tomato salad in small bowls.
6. To assemble, place larger items on platter then arrange smaller items around them. Group pita in several small stacks next to bowls. Arrange feta and olives in remaining space.

Falafel Burgers with Cucumber Sauce

Recipe courtesy of Aramark

Cucumber Sauce:

• 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and coarsely grated
• 2 cups plain full-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 small cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried dill
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2-3 tablespoons water

Falafel Patties:

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, rinsed, drained and patted dry
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 red onion, halved and sliced
• 1 cup loosely packed cilantro
• 6 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 jalapeno, sliced
• 3/4 cup chickpea flour
• 4 teaspoons ground coriander
• 4 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 6 tablespoons grapeseed or vegetable oil
• 4 buns
• lettuce (optional)
• tomato (optional)

1. To make cucumber sauce: Place grated cucumber in clean dish towel. Roll dish towel around cucumber and squeeze to remove excess liquid.
2. In bowl, mix cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, oil, garlic, dill and salt. Stir in 2 tablespoons water, adding more as needed until mixture is smooth and creamy. Cover and chill.
3. To make falafel patties: In food processor, cover and process chickpeas and sesame seeds until mixture is finely chopped. Transfer to bowl.
4. In food processor, cover and process carrot, onion, cilantro, garlic and jalapeno until finely chopped. Add vegetable mixture to chickpea mixture. Add flour, coriander, cumin, salt and black pepper; mix well.
5. Heat oven to 375 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape chickpea mixture into four patties. In skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Cook patties 3 minutes, or until golden brown on bottoms. Turn over and cook 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Transfer patties to baking sheet.
6. Bake 20 minutes. Let patties cool 15 minutes. Place patties on buns and top with lettuce and tomato, if desired. Drizzle with cucumber sauce.

Source: Aramark

(Family Features) From picnics and family reunions to al fresco meals on the patio, flavor and freshness can make springtime dishes truly mouthwatering. As you plan your spring menu for time with loved ones, think outside the box with recipes that can feed a crowd.

One easy way to elevate your warm weather entertaining is with a lean, delicate protein like grass-fed lamb available at Whole Foods Market from Atkins Ranch, a leader in environmental stewardship and one of the first members of Land to Market, which advocates for regenerative agriculture – a type of outcomes-based land management that seeks to heal landscapes instead of degrading them. In fact, many of the lamb ranchers set aside areas for conservation purposes to focus on regenerating land and water to keep the environment as pristine as possible.

The lambs are raised just as nature intended: 100% grass-fed and free to roam on pastures in fresh air and sunshine, culminating in a result that’s better for you, the animals and the planet.

As the first lamb producer in the world to achieve Non-GMO Project verification, Atkins Ranch is also the first to achieve Global Animal Partnership Step-4 certification for farm animal welfare. If you’re unfamiliar with lamb, consider these cooking tips and pairing options for a deliciously divine spread at your next springtime soiree.

How to Cook Lamb
For cuts like legs, shanks, shoulder roasts and stew meat, slow cooking is the answer. This Herb Crusted Bone-In Leg of Lamb, for example, is roasted for about 3 hours to reach a juicy tenderness complemented by fresh herbs and a mint sauce.

Turn to the grill or stovetop for a quicker cooking method with cuts such as chops, rack and ground lamb. Cooking over an open fire allows the smokiness to meld with lamb’s naturally rich flavor.

What to Pair with Lamb
With its rich, meaty flavor, lamb is a perfect main course for spring meals. Try balancing it out with these sides:

• Salad – Like many proteins, lamb is complemented well by fresh greens. Toss baby spinach with a light vinaigrette and fresh fruit, like strawberries, for a true springtime salad.
• Sweet Potatoes – The subtlety of a sweet potato dish is nearly a must to pair with lamb. Sweeten the meal even further by mashing with orange juice and zest for a lightly tangy side.
• Asparagus – A classic side for many spring meals, roasted asparagus is easy to prepare whether in the oven or on the grill.

Find more grass-fed lamb cooking tips and recipes at AtkinsRanch.com.

Herb Crusted Bone-In Leg of Lamb

Prep time: 3 hours
Cook time: about 3 hours (depending on size and doneness)
Servings: 15

• 1 Atkins Ranch bone-in leg of lamb (about 8 pounds)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 8 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1/4 cup white wine

Herb Crust:

• 2 large egg whites
• 2 tablespoons minced rosemary leaves
• 2 tablespoons minced thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons ground peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt

• fresh mint sauce, for serving

1. About 2 hours before preparing, remove leg of lamb from fridge to ensure even cooking. Remove gland to prevent gaminess during cooking.
2. Preheat oven to 325 F on convection setting. Score skin of both sides of leg of lamb.
3. In bowl, whisk olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt and white wine. Brush onto both sides of lamb, pressing into scored crevices.
4. Place leg in roasting pan on roasting rack. Insert cooking probe into thickest part of meat, not touching bone. Cook about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 95 F.
5. Reduce oven temperature to 300 F and cook to desired doneness. For medium-rare doneness, remove lamb once probe reaches 125 F.
6. To make herb curst: In bowl, whisk egg whites until evenly foamy with tiny bubbles. Brush onto both sides of lamb.
7. In separate small bowl, mix rosemary, thyme, peppercorns and salt. Press herb crust mixture onto areas brushed with egg whites. Place back in pan and cook about 5-7 minutes until crust is formed and browned. Remove from oven and rest 30 minutes.
8. Carve lamb, arrange on platter and serve with fresh mint sauce.

Source: Atkins Ranch

(Family Features) Something about summer brings out cravings for grilled perfection. Whether it’s the unmistakable flavor of a slow smoked side of ribs or a flame-kissed tenderloin, you can’t go wrong when you pull out the grill.

Barbecue enthusiasts, who only let the best meats grace their grills and smokers, know marbling is one of the best indicators of quality meat. Marbling is the tiny flecks of fat in the meat itself. These melt throughout the grilling process to infuse every bite with tenderness and flavor.

When you’re planning your menu for your next summer cookout, look for an option like Chairman’s Reserve Pork, which has strict standards to ensure marbling is part of every cut. Each cut is hand-selected and hand-trimmed to guarantee tender, juicy and flavorful results.

From savory to sweet to spicy, pork is the hero of each of these recipes, giving you plenty of ways to cure those summertime cravings. Find more grilling tips and recipes at chairmansreservemeats.com/recipes.

Grilled Pork Tenderloin and Vegetables

Recipe courtesy of pitmaster Tuffy Stone
Prep time: 2 hours
Cook time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Coriander Rub:

• 1          tablespoon kosher salt
• 1          tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2          teaspoons freshly ground coriander seed
• 1          teaspoon granulated garlic

• 1          Chairman’s Reserve Pork Tenderloin (2 pounds)
• 4          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 3          tablespoons Coriander Rub, divided
• 12        small carrots with tops, washed and dried
• 8          spring onions, washed and dried
• 12-18   thin asparagus spears, washed and dried
• 1          lemon, halved
• 2          cups watercress, arugula or spring salad greens mix, washed
• 1          tablespoon chives, thinly sliced
• 1          tablespoon tarragon leaves, torn or chopped
• 1          tablespoon Italian parsley, torn or chopped

1. To make coriander rub: In airtight container, mix salt, black pepper, coriander seed and garlic together. Store until ready to use.
2. To make tenderloin and vegetables: Brush tenderloin with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Evenly season both sides of pork with 1 tablespoon coriander rub and refrigerate 2 hours. Coat carrots, spring onions and asparagus with 2 tablespoons olive oil and season with 1 tablespoon coriander rub; refrigerate.
3. Remove tenderloin and vegetables from refrigerator and bring to room temperature.
4. Heat grill to 400 F using direct grilling setup. Place lemon halves, cut sides down, over hot coals and cook approximately 5 minutes, or until lemon halves are charred. Remove to cool.
5. Place seasoned pork tenderloin over hot coals and grill 3-5 minutes. Using tongs, rotate meat every 3-5 minutes and cook until meat thermometer placed in thickest part of tenderloin reads 140 F (about 15 minutes). Remove tenderloin from heat and let rest 10 minutes.
6. Place seasoned carrots, onion and asparagus on hot grill. Cook 3-4 minutes then turn and cook another 3-4 minutes. Transfer to plate.
7. Toss salad greens in remaining olive oil, juice of 1 charred lemon half and 2 teaspoons coriander rub.
8. Slice tenderloin into 1/4-inch medallions. Place grilled vegetables and medallions on platter; garnish with herbs and juice of remaining lemon half. Serve with spring greens salad.

Loin Back Ribs with Peach Jalapeno Glaze

Recipe courtesy of pitmaster Tuffy Stone
Total time: 5 hours
Servings: 4

Cool Smoke Barbecue Rub:

• 1/2       cup turbinado sugar
• 1/4       cup, plus 2 tablespoons, kosher salt
• 1/4       cup chili powder
• 2          tablespoons smoked paprika
• 3          tablespoons ground cumin
• 2          teaspoons ground oregano
• 2          teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 1          tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon, black pepper
• 1          tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons, granulated garlic
• 1          tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons, granulated onion

Pork Ribs:

• 2          racks (1 1/2 pounds) Chairman’s Reserve pork loin baby back ribs
• 1          cup Cool Smoke Barbecue Rub
• 1/2       cup apple juice, in spray bottle

Peach Jalapeno Glaze:

• 1          cup peach preserves
• 1/2       cup chicken or pork stock
• 1/4       cup minced jalapeno (about 1 large jalapeno)
• 3          teaspoons Cool Smoke Barbecue Rub
• 2          teaspoon lemon juice

1. To make cool smoke barbecue rub: In medium bowl, mix turbinado sugar, kosher salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic and onion thoroughly. Store in airtight container until ready to use.
2. To make ribs: One hour before cooking ribs, use shaker to dust each rack evenly on both sides with 1/4 cup Cool Smoke Barbecue Rub per side.
3. Heat smoker to 275 F.
4. Place ribs meat-side up in smoker; cook 1 hour. Spray ribs with apple juice. Cook 1 hour more, spraying every 30 minutes and at end of cook time.
5. Cut two 18-by-24-inch lengths of extra-heavy foil; set aside. When ribs turn reddish-brown, transfer from grill and place each rack meat-side down on foil. Wrap tightly, being careful not to puncture foil. Place foil-wrapped ribs, meat-side down, in smoker and cook 1 1/2-2 hours until tender. Open foil package and use skewer or toothpick to check tenderness.
6. To make peach jalapeno glaze: In saucepan over low heat, stir peach preserves, stock, jalapeno, Cool Smoke Barbecue Rub and lemon juice. Cover and keep warm until ready to use.
7. Remove ribs from foil, brush each rack with Peach Jalapeno Glaze (1/4 cup per side) and return to smoker meat-side up, 5-10 minutes to set sauce. Watch carefully to avoid burning sauce.
8. Serve warm with extra Peach Jalapeno Glaze.

Oak Smoked Brown Sugar Chili Rubbed Ribs

Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours, 50 minutes
Servings: 6

• Oak wood chips
• 1          can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 2          tablespoons brown sugar
• 2          teaspoons chili powder
• 1          teaspoon cumin
• 1          teaspoon garlic powder
• 1          teaspoon onion powder
• 2          teaspoons kosher salt
• 2          racks Chairman’s Reserve pork loin baby back ribs

1. Heat outdoor grill or smoker on low. Using charcoal, heat coals until white. Soak oak wood chips in water 15-30 minutes. Spread wood chips over coals or use smoke box.
2. In mixing bowl, combine tomato paste, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder and salt.
3. Rub tomato mixture over ribs and grill 1 1/2 hours on direct heat. Wrap ribs using heavy duty foil and move to indirect heat about 3 hours until tender.

Source: Tyson Chairman’s Reserve

(Family Features) Summertime, for many, represents an opportunity to enjoy freshly cooked meals while enjoying time outdoors. Taking your dishes from ordinary to extraordinary starts with chef-inspired recipes that call to mind the flavors of the season.

Whether you’re a steak enthusiast who enjoys nothing more than a tender cut or a summer burger connoisseur looking for a fresh twist on tradition, these recipes call for high-quality beef from Omaha Steaks. Created by Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose, the New York Strips Oscar-Style complement the thick, juicy, marbled flavor of the steaks with sauteed asparagus, bearnaise sauce and jumbo lump crab meat. Or turn your attention to Fried Lobster Po Boy Burgers with pimento remoulade sauce for a tempting way to combine two summertime favorites – seafood and burgers.

Visit OmahaSteaks.com for more summer meal inspiration.

Fried Lobster Po Boy Burgers

Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose
Prep time: about 20 minutes
Cook time: about 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Pimento Remoulade:

• 1/2       cup mayonnaise
• 1 1/2    tablespoons minced pimentos
• 1          tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1          tablespoon minced bread and butter pickles
• 1          pepperoncino (seeded and minced)
• 1/4       teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4       teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1          tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3          dashes hot sauce
• kosher salt, to taste

Fried Lobster Tails:

• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2       cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2       teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/2       teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1/4       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4       teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1          large egg
• 1          tablespoon water
• 2          dashes hot sauce
• 1/4       cup potato chips, finely blended in food processor
• 1/3       cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1          tablespoon minced flat leaf Italian parsley
• 2          Omaha Steaks lobster tails (5 ounces each)

Cheeseburgers:

• 1          pound Omaha Steaks premium ground beef
• salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2          tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2          brioche buns
• 2          slices yellow cheddar cheese
• 3          leaves romaine lettuce, shredded

1. To make pimento remoulade: In small bowl, mix mayonnaise, pimentos, mustard, pickles, pepperoncino, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, lemon juice and hot sauce until well incorporated. Season with salt, to taste.
2. To make fried lobster tails: Preheat grill to 400 F and add oil to 10-inch cast-iron pan about 1/2-inch deep.
3. In medium bowl, whisk flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, garlic powder and smoked paprika until well incorporated. Set aside.
4. In separate medium bowl, whisk egg, water and hot sauce. Set aside.
5. In third medium bowl, whisk potato chips, panko breadcrumbs and parsley until well incorporated. Set aside.
6. Cut lobster tails in half lengthwise, remove meat from shell and season with remaining kosher salt and black pepper.
7. Toss halved lobster tails in flour mixture first, egg mixture second then potato chip mixture third, coating thoroughly.
8. Fry lobster tails 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Close grill lid between flipping.
9. To make cheeseburgers: Preheat grill to 450 F using direct heat. Form ground beef into two 1/2 pound patties, each about 1/2-inch thick.
10. Using thumb, make dimple in center of each patty to help cook evenly.
11. Season both sides of burger with salt and pepper, to taste. Spread butter on each cut side of buns.
12. Grill burgers 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness.
13. Add one slice cheddar cheese on each burger, close lid and grill about 30 seconds to melt cheese. Remove patties from grill to clean plate. Place buns cut sides down on grill grates and toast 20-30 seconds, or until well toasted, being careful to avoid burning.
14. To assemble: Place desired remoulade on buns. Place cheeseburgers on bottom buns. Top each with two fried lobster tail halves. Place handful shredded lettuce on lobster tails. Top with buns.
     

New York Strips Oscar-Style

Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose
Prep time: about 30 minutes
Cook time: about 3 1/2 hours
Servings: 4

Sauteed Asparagus:

• 1/2       pound jumbo asparagus (about 1 bunch), blanched in salted boiling water
• 3          tablespoons olive oil
• 2          garlic cloves, minced
• 2          tablespoons minced shallots
• salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Bearnaise Sauce:

• 1/4       cup white wine vinegar
• 2          tablespoons minced shallots
• 1          tablespoon chopped tarragon
• 3          egg yolks
• 2          tablespoons water, plus additional for boiling, divided
• 2          dashes hot sauce
• 12        tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jumbo Lump Crab Meat:

• 1          pound jumbo lump crab meat
• 2          tablespoons kosher salt

New York Strip Steaks:

• 4          Omaha Steaks Private Reserve or Butcher’s Cut New York Strips (10 ounces each)
• salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• water
• 4          tablespoons grapeseed oil
• 4          tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3          garlic cloves
• 2          fresh thyme sprigs

1. To make asparagus: Cut asparagus stalks into 1/4-inch pieces. Heat large pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
2. Add garlic and shallots to pan; lightly saute about 20 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to pan; saute about 2 minutes until lightly browned. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
4. To make bearnaise sauce: In small saucepan, bring vinegar, shallots and tarragon to boil then reduce to simmer 3-4 minutes until reduced by about half. Cool to room temperature.
5. Bring medium pot half full of water to slow boil.
6. In small bowl, whisk egg yolks, vinegar reduction, water and hot sauce until well incorporated.
7. Place bowl over pot of boiling water and continue whisking ingredients until it starts to emulsify and becomes sauce-like. Alternate whisking on and off heat every 30 seconds to prevent eggs from scrambling.
8. Gradually add melted butter, continuously whisking until sauce becomes rich with ribbony consistency and sets up. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. If too thick, add 1 tablespoon water at a time and whisk to desired consistency.
9. To make crab meat: In medium bowl, lightly toss crab meat with salt until well coated.
10. To make steaks: Pat steaks dry with paper towels and season heavily with salt and pepper, to taste. Bring steaks to room temperature.
11. Place sous vide immersion circulator in pot of water and set to 5 F below target doneness.
12. Place seasoned steaks in sous vide bag or zip-top bag and cook 2 hours.
13. Remove bag and remove steaks from bag. Pat steaks dry with paper towels.
14. Warm large cast-iron pan over high heat and add oil. Add steaks, butter, garlic cloves and thyme leaves. After about 1 minute, steaks should start to brown.
15. Flip steaks and baste with butter until caramelized. Remove steaks from pan and rest 7-8 minutes.
16. To assemble: Place asparagus on bottom of plate. Top with steaks (whole or sliced), crab meat and bearnaise sauce.

Source: Omaha Steaks

(Family Features) If you’re on the lookout for recipes that are easy to prepare, nutritious and still full of flavor, you likely know how difficult it can be to check all those boxes. In order to meet those demands, it’s important to focus your dish desires around a short, simple list of ingredients.

Consider a delicious, health-conscious and sustainable recipe like this Asparagus Tartine, which requires less than half an hour in the kitchen and less than a dozen common ingredients. The main character: Michigan asparagus, which is grown by 100 family farmers during a season that relies on the weather and rainwater (rather than irrigation) for sustainable, environmentally friendly flavor.

Plus, it’s easy to pick out at your local supermarket – thicker spears lead to tender, textured, enhanced flavor – and even easier to prepare. Just boil 5-8 minutes for firm spears that aren’t overcooked. As a nutrient-dense, low-calorie vegetable with no fat, no cholesterol and small amounts of sodium, it’s a simple solution for at-home meals or standalone snacking.

Find more easy, nutritious meal solutions at michiganasparagus.org.

Asparagus Tartine

Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Recipe courtesy of Emily Dingmann from “My Everyday Table” on behalf of the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board

• 1  cup ricotta cheese
• 2  teaspoons lemon zest
• 4  thick slices bread (sourdough or artisan)
• olive oil
• 16 ounces Michigan Asparagus
• 1  tablespoon butter
• flaky sea salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, plus additional, for garnish, divided
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 4 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
• freshly cracked pepper

1. Stir ricotta and lemon zest.
2. Heat grill over medium-high heat and brush both sides of each slice of bread generously with olive oil. Grill 3-5 minutes per side, until lightly charred and toasted.
3. Trim asparagus by breaking off woody bottoms. Slice into 1-inch pieces.
4. In skillet over medium heat, heat butter. Add asparagus, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and cook, stirring occasionally, 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon fresh dill and lemon juice.
5. Layer bread with lemon ricotta, asparagus and prosciutto. Top with freshly cracked pepper, flaky sea salt and chopped dill.

Source: Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board