(Family Features) Make it easy to stick to your resolutions by starting every morning with a breakfast with more protein. Did you know the average breakfast bowl or plate contains on average only 13 grams of protein, yet some nutrition experts recommend getting 20-30 grams at each meal?

Spreading out your protein throughout the day (rather than in one large amount) can help optimize how your body uses it. That means getting enough protein at breakfast! A breakfast with enough protein can help you feel fuller longer so you’re more likely to stick to your healthy eating routine. One easy way to get eight grams of high-quality protein is to add milk to your breakfast routine – whether in a cup, bowl and in your favorite recipe, an 8-ounce glass of milk contains 8 grams of high-quality protein!

Here are eight delicious breakfast ideas with protein to kick-start your new year.

Savory Oatmeal with Sunny Side Up Egg + Bacon

Make your oatmeal with milk instead of water to add milk’s high-quality protein to your morning meal. This twist also adds the classic combo of bacon and eggs to shake up your morning routine – serving up a total of 25 grams of protein.

Grab-and-Go Mini Breakfast Casseroles with Cheddar and Spinach

Need a quick breakfast for busy mornings? These grab-and-go mini casseroles have a few simple ingredients, like lowfat milk, spinach and cheddar cheese – with a ton of palate payoff. Pair two mini casseroles with a cup of milk for 24 grams of protein.

Apple-Cinnamon Whole-Grain Pancake Muffins

Try this yummy twist on your morning go-to pancakes filled with delicious apple slices and cinnamon and made with 100% whole-grain pancake batter. Pair with an 8-ounce glass of milk to add an extra 8 grams of protein to the meal, for a total of 13 grams.

Spinach Mushroom Breakfast Crepes 

These savory crepes made with milk and filled with veggies and Swiss cheese for a delicious way to kick-start your day with 23 grams of protein.

Skillet Eggs and Polenta 

Breakfast takes a flavorful twist in this recipe that uses traditional Italian flavors of polenta and marinara to create a delicious dish. Pair with a glass of milk for 25 grams of protein.

Creamy Green Goddess Smoothie 

Lowfat milk and avocados make this smoothie extra creamy for 7 grams of protein per serving, and it’s packed with spinach, pineapple and bananas so it’s a choice you can feel good about.

Nutty Blueberry Quinoa Oatmeal 

Spice up your morning meal by adding quinoa and blueberries. Pair this dish with a glass of milk for 21 grams of protein power to start your day!  

Chicken Sausage Scramble

Sweet potatoes, lowfat milk and chicken sausage combine in this tasty egg scramble to give you a protein boost to start your morning right. Add a cup of milk for 22 grams of protein.

For more recipes, visit MilkLife.com or check out Pinterest.

Source: Milk Life

(Family Features) Savor each bite of light and flaky crust filled with a creamy mixture of jalapeños and bacon in these Jalapeño Popper Cups.

For more appetizer recipes, visit culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this delicious recipe!

Jalapeño Popper Cups

• 8              strips bacon, chopped
• 4              medium jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced
• 2              teaspoons minced garlic
• 2              packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese
• 1/2         cup sour cream
• 1              cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1              package frozen phyllo dough sheets
• 2              tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

1. Heat oven 375°F.
2. In medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook bacon until crisp. Drain bacon; reserve 1 tablespoon grease.
3. Add jalapeño peppers and minced garlic to bacon grease. Cook until peppers are tender.
4. In large bowl, beat cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in bacon, jalapeño mix and 2/3 cup shredded cheese.
5. Gently fold one pastry sheet in half. Fold in top corners to middle, forming point. Fold bottom corners to middle, forming point. Place phyllo dough in muffin pan cavity, forming cup.
6. Fill phyllo cups with cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over cups.
7. Bake 7-8 minutes or until heated through. Remove from pan and sprinkle with cilantro.

Recipe adapted from Wilton.

Source: Culinary.net

Family Features) Brunch isn't just for mom. This Father's Day, make eggs, toast and bacon on the grill for a breakfast that's sure to spoil the man of the house.

Not sure how to make eggs on the grill? It's easy! Crack an egg into a cut-out hole in toast set on a cedar plank, then sprinkle with a little cheddar and an Applewood rub for smoky grilled flavor.

For more grilling recipes and tips visit www.grillmates.com.

Cedar Plank Grilled Egg in Toast

Makes 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

• 2 cedar planks (about 12x6 inches each)
• 4 slices bread, such as brioche or challah (3/4-inch thick slices)
• 7 eggs, divided
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons plus 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Grill Mates Applewood Rub, divided
• 1/2 cup grated smoked Cheddar cheese

1. Soak cedar planks in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and pat dry.
2. Remove centers of each slice of bread with 3-inch round cookie cutter. Beat 3 eggs with milk and 2 tablespoons of the Applewood Rub in medium bowl until well blended.
3. Lightly oil 1 side of each of planks. Place planks, oil side up, on preheated grill over medium heat. Dip bread in egg mixture. Place on planks. Break an egg into each of holes. Sprinkle eggs with remaining 1/2 teaspoon Applewood Rub. Cover grill.
4. Grill 10 minutes. Sprinkle eggs with cheese and additional Applewood Rub, if desired. Grill, covered, 10 minutes longer.

Candied Grilled Bacon

Makes 6 servings
Prep Time: 5
Cook Time: 15

• 6 slices thick-cut applewood bacon
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons McCormick Ground Cinnamon

1. Arrange bacon slices in single layer on bacon grilling rack or shallow disposable foil pan. Grill over medium-high heat 10 to 12 minutes or until bacon edges begin to curl. Remove pan from grill. Drain drippings.
2. Microwave honey and cinnamon in small microwavable bowl on high 30 seconds, stirring after 15 seconds. Brush bacon with honey mixture. Place bacon directly on grill over low heat. Grill 2 to 3 minutes per side or until crisp.

Source: McCormick

(Family Features) Most parents face the same mealtime dilemma - making affordable and convenient food that the whole family will like. Time is short, palates are picky and some fear it will cost too much to put real food on the table.

For recipes and how-to videos, visit the Real Food Project at www.Hellmanns.com or www.BestFoods.com.

Pimento (Red Pepper) Cheese-Bacon Burgers

A Bobby Flay Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes / Chill Time: 30 minutes
4 servings

• 1/3 cup Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Real Mayonnaise
• 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder
• 1/4 pound extra sharp white cheddar cheese, coarsely grated
• 1/4 pound extra sharp yellow cheddar cheese, coarsely grated
• 1/3 cup drained and finely chopped roasted red peppers or piquillo
• 1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 4 hamburger buns
• 8 thick slices double smoked bacon, crisp-cooked

1. Combine mayonnaise, salt, pepper and cayenne in large bowl with fork. Stir in cheese and roasted peppers. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, shape ground beef into 4 patties. Season, if desired, with salt and black pepper; set aside.
3. Grill or pan fry burgers, turning once, 8 minutes or until desired doneness. During last 30 seconds of cooking, evenly top each burger with cheese mixture, then cook covered until cheese melts slightly. Arrange burgers on buns, then evenly top with bacon.

Smoked Chile Cole Slaw

A Bobby Flay recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
4 servings

• 1/2 cup Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Real Mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 large carrots, finely shredded
• 1 small onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1. Combine mayonnaise, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, honey and cumin in large bowl. Season, if desired, with salt and black pepper. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and refrigerate at least 20 minutes before serving.

Goat Cheese Crostini With Grape Salsa

A Bobby Flay Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Stand Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
6 servings

• 1 cup red grapes, diced
• 1 cup blue and/or black grapes, diced
• 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley, plus leaves for garnish
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 4 slices whole grain bread, quartered, OR 1 baguette, thinly sliced into 16 pieces
• 6 ounces herbed goat cheese, slightly softened
• 1/3 cup Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Real Mayonnaise

1. Combine grapes, onion, jalapeño pepper, cilantro and vinegar in medium bowl. Season, if desired, with salt and pepper. Let stand at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange bread on large baking sheet in a single layer and bake, turning once, 8 minutes or until lightly golden brown and crisp on both sides. Remove and let cool.
3. Combine goat cheese with mayonnaise in small bowl until smooth. Season, if desired, with salt and pepper. Evenly spread cheese mixture onto crostinis, then top with grape salsa.

Grilled Potato Wedges With Malt Vinegar-Tarragon Dip

A Bobby Flay Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
6 servings

• 2/3 cup PLUS 1 teaspoon malt vinegar
• 1-1/2 cups Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Real Mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon chopped tarragon
• 5 Russet or all-purpose potatoes, scrubbed
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley

1. Bring 2/3 cup vinegar to a boil over high heat in small saucepan and continue boiling until reduced by half. Remove saucepan from heat and let cool 5 minutes.
2. Combine mayonnaise, cooled vinegar, remaining 1 teaspoon vinegar and tarragon in medium bowl. Season, if desired, with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
3. Cover potatoes with water in 4-quart saucepot; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender, but still firm. Drain and cool slightly. Cut each potato lengthwise into 8 slices.
4. Brush potatoes with oil and season, if desired, with salt and pepper. Grill, turning once, 4 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Arrange potatoes on serving platter, then sprinkle with parsley. Serve with dip.

Mayonnaise mixture is also delicious with hot cooked chicken fingers or fish.

Source: Hellmann's

(Family Features) Warm weather is here, and there is no better time for a picnic at your local park or beach. Quick and simple recipes are the way to go, but the typical bologna sandwich doesn't always stimulate the taste buds. This season, experiment with new recipes and flavors, and make your casual alfresco dining experience extra special.

By adding a few key ingredients to seasonal favorites, you have the power to transform everyday recipes into delicious dishes the whole family will enjoy. Here are some great examples on how to plus up an otherwise run of the mill picnic.

For a twist on the classic barbecue chicken, opt for a Grilled Herbed Chicken, seasoned with Grey Poupon Dijon mustard and Italian spices. But, don't let those leftovers go to waste. The chicken can be refrigerated for up to two days and made into a quick-and-easy Caesar salad with the addition of romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing and grated Parmesan cheese.

Instead of ordinary potato salad, try the Butter Bean Salad on for size. Chock full of ham, butter beans, sun-dried tomatoes and red onions, this recipe adds a touch of mustard and cilantro to really titillate your taste buds and give you a side dish full of flavor.

Finally, kick your lunch up a notch and enjoy a Cheddar, Bacon and Pear Sandwich, made with Harvest Coarse Ground Mustard. Whole mustard seeds paired with fresh ingredients create a crisp, robust flavor. Perfect for the family on the go, this gourmet goodie can be prepared in only five minutes.

For more ideas on how to spice up your picnic, visit www.greypoupon.com.

Picnic Food Safety

• Cool It: Store perishable foods in plenty of coolers with ice or frozen gel packs. Keep the food at 40°F. A full cooler stays colder longer than a partially filled one. Carry the cooler inside the air-conditioned car, and keep it in the shade when you reach your destination. Use separate coolers for drinks so the food container won't be opened and closed.
• Two Hour Rule: Don't leave perishable food out for more than two hours. (Cold foods should not sit out for more than one hour.) Any leftovers that have been sitting out longer than that should be discarded.
• Proper Prepping: Wash hands before preparing food, and make sure storage containers are clean. Cooked foods need to be properly cooled - spread the food out in as many pans as needed so that it is no more than two inches deep. This allows it to cool faster, reducing the chances of bacteria growing.

Cheddar, Bacon & Pear Sandwich

Makes 1 serving

• 2 slices fully cooked bacon
• 2 slices French bread
• 1 teaspoon Grey Poupon Harvest Coarse Ground Mustard
• 1 slice (1 ounce) sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 of a medium pear, thinly sliced

1. Heat bacon as directed on package.
2. Spread bread slices with mustard. Top 1 of the bread slices with cheese, pears and bacon.
3. Cover with remaining bread slice.

Grilled Herbed Chicken

Makes 6 servings

• 2 tablespoons Grey Poupon Dijon Mustard
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 envelope Good Seasons Italian Dressing Mix
• 6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (2 pounds)

1. Heat grill to medium heat.
2. Combine mustard, water and dressing mix in shallow dish. Add chicken; turn over to evenly coat both sides.
3. Grill chicken 6 to 8 minutes on each side or until done (165°F).

Butter Bean Salad

Makes 8 servings

• 1/4 cup Grey Poupon Hearty Spicy Brown Mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 can (15 ounces) butter beans, drained
• 1 red pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped red onions
• 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 6-ounce package boiled ham, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

1. Mix mustard, oil and lemon juice until well blended; set aside.
2. Combine remaining ingredients in large bowl. Add mustard mixture; toss to coat. Cover.
3. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.

Spiced Lemonade

Makes 1 serving

Wash down your meal with a twist on the classic summertime libation, Spiced Lemonade. This surprisingly refreshing treat, bursting with fruit flavors, is made with lemonade, gin and Dijon mustard. Top with mint, the perfect finishing touch for a warm-weather cocktail.

• 1 teaspoon Grey Poupon Dijon
• 1/2 cup lemonade
• 1/2 cup spiced gin
• 1 slice each: lemon, lime and orange
• 1 slice cucumber
• 1 sprig fresh mint

1. Mix mustard, lemonade and gin. Serve over ice cubes in tall glass.
2. Add fruit and cucumber slices.
3. Top with mint.

Source: Grey Poupon

Your guests won’t be able to have just one of these sweet and savory poppers. With a touch of heat from the cayenne pepper, and sweetness from brown sugar, you’re almost sure to watch them quickly disappear.

For more recipes, visit culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this delicious recipe!

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves: 40

• 2          packages Bob Evans Thick Sliced Hardwood Smoked Bacon, slices cut in half
• 1          package Bob Evans White Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
• 1          package garlic herb cheese spread
• 20        jalapeno peppers, halved, seeded with membranes removed
• 1/4       cup brown sugar
• 1          teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

1. Heat oven to 400° F. Set bacon out to thaw to room temperature so it is pliable.
2. In mixing bowl, use rubber spatula to combine mashed potatoes and garlic herb cheese. Stir until incorporated. Spread 1 teaspoon mashed potato mixture in each jalapeno half; level each with butter knife or spatula.
3. Wrap each jalapeno with bacon; use three half slices for large jalapenos or two halves for smaller sizes. Be sure bacon is wrapped sealing in mashed potato mixture tightly.
4. In small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar and cayenne pepper. Generously sprinkle over bacon and pat gently to make it stick.
5. Line cookie sheet with piece of parchment paper so sugar does not burn to pan. Bake until bacon reaches desired crispiness, around 25-35 minutes.
6. Let peppers cool slightly before serving, about 5 minutes.

Recipe courtesy of Bob Evans.

Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) Quick, effortless recipes are the cornerstone of making hassle-free meals and snacks that work for active families. Adding simplicity to your kitchen repertoire can make it a little easier on everyone, creating more quality time spent around the table and less time in the kitchen.

Whether you’re meal prepping the kids’ school lunches for the week or whipping up a last minute snack, one kitchen staple to consider picking up on your next grocery run is Eckrich deli meats.

As a make-ahead meal that can be sent with your kids (or yourself) for lunch, these Ham and Turkey Roll-ups take just a few minutes of rolling together some family-favorite tastes. Using simple recipes with Oven Roasted Turkey Breast and Black Forest Ham as the main ingredients allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying life’s little moments with loved ones.

While creating make-ahead lunches can come in handy, arguably just as important is the meal that gets the day started: breakfast. Saving time in the morning, especially on busy weekdays, can be a lifesaver for families who value spending time together.

One solution can be these Deli Ham Breakfast All Day Tacos, featuring the consistent quality of perfectly seasoned Eckrich Deli Ham Off the Bone. A handful of ingredients and a pan are all you need to create a handheld breakfast for everyone in the family.

Find more fast, flavorful meals the entire family can enjoy at eckrich.com .

Ham and Turkey Roll-ups

Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2

• 4          ounces Eckrich Deli Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
• 4          ounces Eckrich Deli Black Forest Ham
• lettuce leaves
• 2          tablespoons chunky guacamole
• 1/4       cup cucumbers, chopped
• 1          tablespoon shredded cheddar cheese
• 2          slices bacon, cooked and chopped

1. Layer turkey and ham slices. Layer lettuce, guacamole, cucumber, cheese and bacon crumbles. Roll meat and insert toothpick to hold. Include additional toppings, as desired.

Deli Ham Breakfast All Day Tacos

Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• 8          soft corn tortillas
• oil
• 1          cup Eckrich Deli Ham Off the Bone, cubed
• handful green bell peppers, chopped
• handful red bell peppers, chopped
• 8          eggs
• 2          tablespoons milk
• pinch salt
• pinch pepper
• 1/2       cup shredded cheddar cheese
• sour cream (optional)
• cilantro (optional)
• salsa (optional)

1. In pan over low heat, warm tortillas, flipping after 15 seconds. Remove. Increase heat to medium; add oil and warm ham; set aside.
2. In same pan, saute peppers. Add eggs, milk, salt and pepper until eggs are cooked. Add cheese and ham.
3. Spoon mixture onto tortillas. Top with sour cream, cilantro and salsa, if desired.

Source: Eckrich

(Family Features) As summer comes to an end and the reality of back-to-school season sets in, it can be challenging to get organized and jump back into your day-to-day routine. But even as things get hectic, it's still possible to create delicious dishes that leave you plenty of time to savor meals together as a family using a few simple tips and tricks.

Whether the weeknight dinner rush puts you in a panic or you're simply looking to spice up the same old lunchbox staples, these three steps will make it easy to assemble quick, flavorful dishes ideal for the busy back-to-school season.

1. Plan a weekly menu and shop accordingly so you can avoid scrounging to piece together a meal from the odds and ends in the pantry on a night when you're already pressed for time. Meal planning eliminates all of the guesswork, so your family can enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals while also saving time, money and stress.

2. Rely on a versatile, easy meal-helper that lends itself to a variety of preparations, such as Smithfield Marinated Fresh Pork. Packed with protein and already seasoned with juicy, delicious flavor, it's the perfect base for any weeknight meal. For a hassle-free dinner, try Pork with Balsamic Glaze and Rosemary, which is ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish - less time than it takes the kids to finish their homework.

3. Opt for simple, flavorful dishes that don't require a ton of ingredients or multiple sides. A zesty take on a traditional favorite, this South of the Border Pizza is convenient, kid-friendly and a great way to banish lunchtime boredom. Use this recipe as a starting point then experiment with more toppings to create your own unique family recipe.

Find more family friendly and time-saving recipe ideas at Smithfield.com.

Pork with Balsamic Glaze and Rosemary

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon Marinated Fresh Pork Loin Filet, cut into 3/4- to 1-inch thick chops
• 1/4 cup prepared balsamic vinegar glaze
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary

1. In large, nonstick skillet, heat half the oil over medium heat.
2. Working in two batches, cook pork chops 4-5 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 150 F. Remove pork from skillet and place on rimmed serving platter; cover to keep warm. Repeat with remaining oil and pork chops.
3. Serve pork chops drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with rosemary.

South of the Border Pizza

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

• 2 French bread sandwich rolls, halved
• 8 tablespoons refried black beans
• 8 tablespoons (2 ounces) Smithfield Anytime Favorites Hickory Smoked Diced Ham
• 8 slices pepper jack cheese
• 4 tablespoons picante sauce
• 4 tablespoons low-fat sour cream

1. Heat oven to 375 F.
2. Place four French bread halves on ungreased sheet pan. Spread 2 tablespoons beans evenly over each bread half.
3. Top each half with 2 tablespoons ham and two cheese slices.
4. Bake 8-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven; top each pizza with 1 tablespoon picante sauce and 1 tablespoon sour cream.

Source: Smithfield

(Family Features) Deviled eggs, also known as stuffed eggs, first appeared in American cookbooks in the mid-19th century, but the origin can be traced back to ancient Rome where eggs were boiled and seasoned with spicy sauces, according to the History Channel. Today, deviled eggs are a staple during Easter, and according to the American Egg Board, more than 100 million dozen eggs were sold last year during the week of Easter alone.

The “classic” deviled egg includes a mixture of mustard and mayonnaise, sprinkled with paprika. However, chefs and home cooks alike are experimenting with various flavor twists, including ingredients like seeds, bacon, hot sauce, avocado, pickles, dill, crab meat and more.

Celebrate this classic Easter recipe along with five new flavor variations from the experts at McCormick and French’s. For more deviled egg recipes and Easter inspiration, visit McCormick.com and Frenchs.com.

1. Easy Deviled Eggs – Crush this traditional recipe using French’s Classic Yellow Mustard and garlic powder for a tangy-sweet flavor and silky-smooth texture. Top with paprika and enjoy.

2. Smoky Deviled Eggs – What could be better than deviled eggs with crumbled bacon? How about adding in smoked paprika for another layer of smokiness and a little color.  Now that’s the perfect appetizer for Easter brunch.

3. Fiery Deviled Eggs – Kick it up a notch by adding Frank’s RedHot to these deviled eggs. It’ll add a tangy kick to the classic that can please any crowd. 

4. Avocado Deviled Eggs – Switch up the norm and add chopped avocado, Greek yogurt, yellow mustard and crispy fried onions to create this flavorful deviled egg. Top with some cilantro for a pop of color.

5. Mediterranean Deviled Eggs – Getting their inspiration from the flavors of the Mediterranean, this deviled egg features Parmesan cheese, herbs like oregano and basil and a bright garnish of diced tomatoes.

6. French’s Party Deviled Eggs– This egg is made for a party. Swap out the mayo with sour cream and add Dijon mustard for richness. Then top with a crispy onion crunch to leave guests wanting more. Don’t forget to sprinkle with paprika.

Source: McCormick

(Family Features) You probably don't know it, but you may have the secret ingredients for an exceptional Easter dinner in your pantry right now. The holidays are a perfect opportunity to sprinkle creativity into special meals by using staples like pancake mix, syrup and instant mashed potatoes in unexpected ways to craft new and delicious dishes the whole family will love.

Here are ways to use up what you already have to make a complete Easter menu, including savory Bacon and Cheese Appetizer Bites, Spinach Salad with Warm Maple Dijon Vinaigrette, Maple Glazed Pork Tenderloin, and a sweet Spiced Mocha Fudge Cake. You'll create an Easter meal worth celebrating and make your hungry family a happy one.

For more creative recipes and tips, visit www.hungryjack.com.

Spiced Mocha Fudge Cake

Makes: 12 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour

CAKE:

• Crisco Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
• 4 (1-ounce) squares unsweetened baking chocolate
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1cup hot brewed Folgers Classic Roast® Coffee
• 2/3 cup Hungry Jack Instant Mashed Potato Flakes
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1/2 cup Pillsbury BEST® All Purpose Flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar

SPICED WHIPPED CREAM:

• 1/2 pint whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. HEAT oven to 350°F. Line bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Coat paper with no-stick cooking spray. Place chocolate and butter in medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on HIGH power 45 to 60 seconds or until chocolate is melted and smooth when stirred.
2. COMBINE coffee, potato flakes, cinnamon and cayenne in large mixing bowl, stirring until moistened. Blend in sugar and vanilla. Blend in chocolate mixture and egg yolks. Stir together flour, baking powder and salt. Gradually blend into chocolate mixture.
3. BEAT egg whites on medium speed of electric mixer until stiff. Add to chocolate mixture and blend on low speed until completely blended, scraping sides and bottom of bowl frequently. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 55 to 60 minutes or until set in center. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Remove from pan. Sprinkle liberally with powdered sugar.
4. COMBINE whipping cream, powdered sugar, cinnamon and vanilla in medium mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed of electric mixer until stiff. Serve with cake.

Maple Glazed Pork Tenderloin

Makes: 4 servings
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves, crushed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons Hungry Jack Original Regular Syrup

1. COMBINE thyme, marjoram, salt, onion powder and garlic powder in large resealable food storage bag. Seal bag and shake well. Add pork slices. Seal bag. Shake to coat.
2. MELT butter in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork mixture. Cook and stir 8 to 10 minutes or until pork is browned and no longer pink in center. Add syrup. Cook and stir until pork is glazed.

Spinach Salad with Warm Maple Dijon Vinaigrette

Makes: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 minute

• 1/4 cup Hungry Jack Original Syrup
• 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, minced, or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup Crisco 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 (6-ounce) bag fresh baby spinach leaves
• 1 small unpeeled red apple, cored and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 2 tablespoons crumbled cooked bacon or real bacon bits

1. WHISK together syrup, vinegar, mustard, thyme, garlic, salt and pepper in a medium microwave-safe bowl until well blended. Gradually whisk in oil, stirring until thickened.
2. COMBINE spinach, apple, cheese and bacon in a large bowl. Just before serving, microwave vinaigrette on HIGH for 30 to 45 seconds or until warm. Drizzle salad with desired amount of vinaigrette; toss salad and serve immediately.

Bacon and Cheese Appetizer Bites

Makes: 24 appetizers
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Crisco® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup Hungry Jack Buttermilk Complete Pancake & Waffle Mix (Just Add Water)
• 1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Paprika

1. HEAT oven to 400°F. Spray cookie sheet with no-stick cooking spray.
2. MIX sour cream and water in medium bowl until well combined. Add pancake mix, cheese and bacon pieces. Stir just until dry ingredients are moistened. Drop by rounded teaspoons onto prepared cookie sheet.
3. BAKE 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with paprika. Serve warm.

(c)/® The J.M. Smucker Company. Folgers Classic Roast is a trademark of The Folgers Coffee Company. Pillsbury BEST is a trademark of The Pillsbury Company, LLC, used under license.

Source: Hungry Jack