(Family Features) Whether Cinco de Mayo means an opportunity to celebrate your family’s heritage or it’s simply an excuse to gather with the ones you love, every holiday truly is about the same thing: special moments together. While those treasured times at the table revolve around camaraderie and conversation, it can start with a filling meal and end with a sweet treat.

Take this year’s festivities the traditional route with recipes that combine familiar favorites with ingredients you normally may not use otherwise, such as cactus. This Mexican Cactus Pork Stew makes Cinco de Mayo a cinch with the use of a Dutch oven. Just brown fresh pork shoulder (or reheat leftover pork) in the Dutch oven and combine with onion and jalapeno for the right mixture of flavor and spice. Once pork is cooked or warmed through, add broth, beans, spices, seasonings and a cup of chopped cactus for a southwestern spin.

After some lively chatter or friendly competition, you’re bound to work up the appetite for dessert. Call the kids to the kitchen to lend a hand with these Kid-Friendly Mexican Cinnamon Cookies – they’ll love working with the dough and rolling warm cookies in the cinnamon-sugar mixture after baking. Remember, they don’t have to be perfect; you can ensure a bit of fun and flavor by letting their creativity shine.

Visit Culinary.net to find more family-friendly recipes perfect for celebrating holidays throughout the year.

Mexican Cactus Pork Stew

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

• 1 pound pork shoulder (leftover or fresh)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) mild chili beans
• 1 cup chopped cactus (nopales)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 4 green onions, chopped, for garnish
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish

1. If using fresh pork, in Dutch oven, cube and brown it with onion and jalapeno pepper. If using leftover pork, reheat in Dutch oven with onion and jalapeno pepper.
2. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, chili beans, cactus, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper and salt and pepper, to taste.
3. Simmer 25 minutes then garnish with green onions and cilantro.

Kid-Friendly Mexican Cinnamon Cookies

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

• 4 sticks butter, at room temperature
• 4 cups self-rising flour, plus additional for coating workspace
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup sugar

Topping:

• 2/3 cup sugar
• 4 teaspoons cinnamon

1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. In bowl, combine butter, 4 cups flour and cinnamon. Add egg and sugar then knead into ball.
3. Spread additional flour on counter and cut ball into six sections. Roll each section into 24-inch ropes then cut into 1-inch pieces and place on cookie sheet.
4. Bake 10 minutes.
5. To make topping: In bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon.
6. Roll warm cookies in mixture and let cool on rack.

(Family Features) From big things like juggling a career and family priorities to little things like writing lunchtime love notes, there are so many ways moms lift up their families and the people they love every day. In today’s world, where multi-tasking has taken on a whole new meaning, it’s clear moms deserve to be celebrated.

One of the easiest ways to do something special for the all-star mom in your life is to make her a homemade meal and enjoy some quality time together around the dinner table. For those in need of inspiration, consider a delicious option like this Tuscan Chicken Pierogy Skillet for an easy, elevated, sure-to-impress dish that comes together in 45 minutes.

The key ingredient: Mrs. T’s Pierogies, which are pasta pockets stuffed with creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy goodness and other big, bold flavors. Found in the frozen food aisle and available in 13 flavors, in full and mini size varieties, they can be boiled, baked, sauteed, fried or grilled. They are easy to prepare, which means less time in the kitchen and more time together.

Visit mrstspierogies.com to find more recipe inspiration to celebrate mom.

Tuscan Chicken Pierogy Skillet

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          box Mrs. T’s Pierogies 4 Cheese Medley
• 3          tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2          boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• kosher salt, to taste
• ground black pepper, to taste
• 4          cloves garlic, minced
• 1          bag (5 ounces) fresh baby spinach
• 2          cups diced tomatoes
• 1          teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4       cup chicken broth
• 1/2       cup heavy cream
• 3/4       cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional, for garnish
• 1          tablespoon cold water
• 1/2       tablespoon cornstarch
• fresh basil, for garnish
• crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish

1. Boil pierogies according to package directions. Drain then toss pierogies with 1 tablespoon olive oil to keep from sticking.
2. In 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper, to taste, and cook 8-10 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to plate, cover and allow to rest 5-8 minutes. Slice thin.
3. While chicken rests, lower heat to medium-low and add remaining oil to same skillet. Add garlic, spinach and tomatoes; saute 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant. Season with Italian seasoning and salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream and 3/4 cup Parmesan. In small bowl, whisk cold water and cornstarch then stir into pan. Simmer 4-5 minutes until thickened and creamy.
5. Return chicken and pierogies to skillet and toss to combine. If desired, top with additional seasonings, to taste. Garnish with fresh basil, Parmesan and red pepper flakes, if desired.

Source: Mrs. T’s Pierogies

(Family Features) Regardless of what back to school looks like this year, preparing family meals throughout the week does not have to be a challenge. Shopping at a store like ALDI can stretch your budget and help you make five different meals over five days for about $5 a meal pretax for a family of four.

Using a mix of kitchen staples you already may have, along with fresh ingredients, you can make delicious, affordable recipes for the whole family. Simply select a protein or main ingredient and explore versatile ways to build other meals around it during the week. 

Grilled chicken breasts are ideal for on-the-go lunches or weekday dinners. Busy parents can get dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes with an easy Chicken Cacciatore in the pressure cooker or simple prep-ahead Chicken Enchiladas. These convenient dishes make it a snap to add variety by substituting chicken with shrimp, beans or vegetables.

Serving organic produce, fresh and frozen meats, seafood and on-the-go snacks can be easy when you shop at a store like ALDI for the back-to-school season. Plus, you can find foods to fit any dietary style without breaking the bank.

Find more family meal solutions at aldi.us.

Pressure Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Recipe courtesy of “Pinch of Yum” on behalf of ALDI
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1-1 1/2             pounds chicken breasts or chicken thighs
• flour
• 1          pinch salt, plus 2 teaspoons, divided
• 2          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1          onion, diced
• 16        ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 3          cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2       cup chicken broth
• 1          bell pepper, diced
• 1          can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4          tablespoons butter
• capers (optional)
• parsley, plus additional for topping (optional)
• lemon
• preferred pasta
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

1. Dredge chicken in flour and pinch of salt. Turn on saute function on pressure cooker. Add oil; saute chicken 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside (chicken will finish cooking later).
2. Add onion, mushrooms and garlic. Saute until softened. Add broth and let sizzle out.
3. Add chicken, bell pepper, tomatoes and remaining salt to pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure 15 minutes. Release pressure.
4. Shred chicken. Stir in butter, capers, parsley and lemon. Serve with preferred pasta and top with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Easy Chicken Enchiladas with Black Beans

Recipe courtesy of “Wellness for the Win” on behalf of ALDI
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 10

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1          medium onion, chopped

Chicken:

• 1          pound chicken breasts
• 1/4       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4       teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4       teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4       teaspoon cumin
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

Enchiladas:

• 15        ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
• 10        ounces diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
• 2          cups shredded Mexican cheese, divided
• 16        ounces restaurant-style salsa, divided
• 10        whole-wheat tortillas

Optional Toppings:

• diced avocado
• plain Greek yogurt
• cilantro

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Spray 9-by-13-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. In medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook onion until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer to large bowl and set aside.
3. To make chicken: Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin and salt and pepper, to taste. Add chicken to same skillet over medium-high heat. Cook 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Use fork and knife to shred chicken.
4. To make enchiladas: In large bowl with cooked onion, add shredded chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, green chilies and 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese. Use spoon to mix well.
5. Pour 1 cup salsa on bottom of greased pan and use spatula to spread evenly. Scoop about 1/2 cup chicken and veggie mixture into each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam side down in pan.
6. Top enchiladas with 3/4 cup salsa and remaining shredded cheese; use spatula to spread evenly.
7. Cover pan tightly with foil and bake 25-30 minutes. Remove from oven; serve hot. Add avocado, yogurt and cilantro, if desired.

Source:  ALDI

(Family Features) Few things go together quite like cold weather and comfort foods. However, those hearty dishes that are typically craved on blustery days are usually not classified as “healthy.”

With the right approach, though, you can put a better-for-you twist on some of your favorite dishes that can keep you cozy and satiated during the winter season. For example, you can put a grown-up twist on grilled cheese and tomato soup with this recipe for Creamy Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup with Cheddar Cracker Melts.

Pairing flavorful seasonal dishes like soups and stews with a wholesome snack cracker like gluten-free, non-GMO Crunchmaster Tuscan Peasant Crackers can help satisfy those comfort food cravings while also contributing to a healthy lifestyle. With 20 grams of whole grains per serving, these crunchy, robust baked crackers are also cholesterol-free, allowing you to take a back-to-basics approach to your diet using simple ingredients and no artificial flavors or colors.

For other seasonal recipes, coupons, tips and nutritional information, visit crunchmaster.com.

Creamy Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup with Cheddar Cracker Melts

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Creamy Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup:

• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 1          onion, chopped
• 1          carrot, chopped
• 3          cloves garlic, chopped
• 1          teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2       teaspoon pepper
• 1/2       teaspoon paprika
• 1          pinch chili flakes
• 4          cups organic no-salt-added vegetable broth
• 1          can (28 ounces) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
• 1          cup chopped prepared roasted red peppers
• 2          bay leaves
• 1/3       cup 35 percent heavy cream
• 2          tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives, divided
• 1          teaspoon cider vinegar

Cheddar Cracker Melts:

• 24        Crunchmaster Tuscan Peasant Fire Roasted Tomato Basil Crackers
• 3/4       cup shredded cheddar cheese

1. In Dutch oven or large saucepan over medium heat, heat oil. Cook onion, carrot, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, paprika and chili flakes about 5 minutes, or until vegetables are slightly softened.
2. Stir in broth, tomatoes, roasted red peppers and bay leaves; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 15-20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Discard bay leaves. Let cool slightly. Transfer to blender; puree in batches until smooth. Stir in cream, remaining salt, 1 tablespoon chives and vinegar.
3. To make Cheddar Cracker Melts: Heat broiler to high and position rack in center of oven. Arrange crackers on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with cheese. Broil 1-2 minutes, or until cheese is melted. 
4. Divide soup among six bowls. Sprinkle with remaining chives and serve with Cheddar Cracker Melts.

Tip: Use mild, medium or aged cheddar cheese. Smoked mozzarella can be substituted, if desired.

Nutrition information per serving: 250 calories; 15 g fat; 7 g saturated fat; 30 mg cholesterol; 730 mg sodium; 22 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 11 g sugar; 6 g protein.

Source: Crunchmaster

Ingredients

• 4 medium red, green or yellow bell peppers
• 1 14 1/2-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup cooked white or brown rice, cooled
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preparation

1. Heat oven to 400°F. Cut tops off bell peppers; remove seeds and membranes. Place peppers upright in 8-inch square baking dish, cutting thin slice off bottoms of peppers to stabilize, if necessary.
2. Combine tomatoes, tomato sauce and 1 tablespoon parsley in large bowl. Remove and reserve 1 cup tomato mixture. Combine ground beef, onion, rice, remaining 2 tablespoons parsley, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt and black pepper with remaining tomato mixture in bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly.
3. Spoon beef mixture evenly into peppers. Top with reserved tomato mixture. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
4. Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. Uncover baking dish; continue baking 35 to 40 minutes to medium (160°F) doneness, until beef is not pink in center and juices show no pink color. Garnish with parsley, if desired.

Preparation and Cooking Time

1-1/2 hours

Calories: 328 | Total Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 77mg | Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 25g | Sodium: 824mg

Serves

4 servings

Notes, Tips & Suggestions:

Cook's Tip: Due to the natural nitrate content of certain ingredients such as onions, celery and bell peppers, ground beef may remain pink even when a 160°F internal temperature has been reached. Always verify the internal temperature with a meat thermometer or instant-read thermometer to be certain it reaches 160°F.

SOURCE: National Cattlemen's Beef Association on behalf of The Beef Checkoff