(Family Features) When dining outside with your loved ones, there are few things better than a tasty dish the whole family can enjoy. This Chipotle Chicken Flatbread makes for a perfect al fresco meal.

Prepared along with a fresh salad or simply enjoyed by itself, this flatbread is simple to make and even kids will love adding the toppings and sauce. It’s colorful and fresh, making it a perfect addition to get-togethers on the patio.

Plus, the cooking time is only 16 minutes, which makes this a quick and delicious solution to defeat.

For more al fresco recipe ideas, visit Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Chipotle Chicken Flatbread

Adapted from butteryourbiscuit.com

• 2          flatbreads
• 2          cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1          clove garlic, diced
• 4          chicken tenders, cooked and cubed
• 1          pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1/2       cup ranch dressing
• 1 1/2    teaspoons chipotle seasoning
• 2          tablespoons cilantro leaves, chopped

1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. Place parchment paper on baking sheet and add flatbreads. Sprinkle cheese on flatbreads. Top with garlic, chicken and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bake 16 minutes until cheese is melted.
3. In small bowl, mix ranch and chipotle seasoning.
4. Drizzle ranch dressing on flatbread and sprinkle with cilantro leaves.

(Family Features) It can be hard to ignore the rising costs of food, gas and other basic household items. Many families are especially feeling the burden of inflation at the grocery store.

However, you can make your hard-earned dollars stretch a little further at the supermarket and put delicious, nutritious meals on the table with these cost-saving tips from Healthy Family Project and by looking for the Produce for Kids logo in your local produce department. These produce companies give back to local communities and support nutrition education and information sharing.

Plan your meals. Making a plan for what meals will be on the menu each week can help you identify ingredients you can use in multiple recipes and save money by not adding items you may not use to your grocery list. Once your meals are planned and you head to the store, stick to your list to avoid unnecessary spending.

Opt for in-season produce. Typically, fresh fruits and vegetables cost more when out of season since they’re not as readily available. Buying in-season produce also helps ensure you get better tasting fruits and veggies.

Keep ingredient lists short. Quick and easy meals the entire family can enjoy are often accompanied by shorter ingredient lists. For example, these recipes for Grilled Peach Flatbread with Goat Cheese and Mixed Berry Pizza with Oatmeal Coconut Crust both require 15 ingredients or less and can be on the table in half an hour, giving you more time to spend with those who matter most.  

Discover more family-focused recipes and tips for saving on grocery bills at healthyfamilyproject.com.

Mixed Berry Pizza with Oatmeal Coconut Crust

Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup honey, plus additional for drizzling, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1pinch salt
• 1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
• 1/2 lemon, juice only
• 3 strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup blueberries
• 1/4 cup blackberries

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In mixing bowl, mix egg, rolled oats, coconut, flour, brown sugar, butter, 1/4 cup honey, cinnamon, vanilla and salt until incorporated.
3. Evenly spread mixture in greased springform pan and bake 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Remove pan from oven and cool.
5. In bowl, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice.
6. Once oatmeal crust is fully cooked, use spatula to spread lemon-yogurt mixture on top.
7. Top with sliced strawberries, blackberries and blueberries. Drizzle with additional honey.

Grilled Peach Flatbread with Goat Cheese

Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes

• 2 large naan or flatbreads
• 2 fresh peaches, sliced
• 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
• 1-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• fresh arugula (optional)

1. Preheat grill or grill pan.
2. Grill naan until softened and lightly grilled.
3. Place peach slices on grill and sear about 1 minute per side.
4. Using pastry brush, spread olive oil onto naan.
5. Top naan with goat cheese and peaches.
6. Place back on grill over low heat, cover and cook 3-5 minutes.
7. Add fresh arugula, if desired
8. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before slicing and serving.

Source: Healthy Family Project

(Family Features) Fresh air, warm sun and delicious foods make brunch a favorite weekend event. Set the stage (and the table) for an inviting experience with recipes that cover all the bases from snacks and desserts to a mouthwatering main course.

Tide the appetite of your guests with Spiced Grass-Fed Lamb Over Hummus served with toasted flatbread or tortilla chips before dishing out Overnight Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole for a simple centerpiece. Just as those delectable dishes are vanishing, pull Brown Sugar Pound Cake out of the oven and pair with sweetened whipped cream and fresh fruit for a sweet finishing touch.

Visit Culinary.net to find more ways to broaden your brunch menu.

Wake Up to a Wonderful Brunch

Perfect for any brunch occasion is a delicious dish that can be made a day in advance, simplifying your morning prep before guests arrive with growling stomachs.

Prepared the day before and chilled overnight, this Overnight Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is ready to bake to perfection in the morning with a gooey interior and crisp exterior filled with mouthwatering flavor. Drizzle with glaze then dish out to loved ones for a delicious way to make brunch easy.

Find more breakfast and brunch recipes at Culinary.net.

Overnight Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

Servings: 12

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 package (20 ounces) French bread, cubed, divided
• 1 can (20 ounces) apple pie filling
• 9 eggs
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup powdered sugar, plus additional (optional)
• 2 tablespoons milk, plus additional (optional)

1. Spray 8-by-8-inch glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In baking dish, add 10 ounces cubed French bread in bottom of dish. Pour apple filling over bread. Top with remaining cubed French bread. Set aside.
3. In medium bowl, whisk eggs, half-and-half and cinnamon. Pour evenly over bread.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and chill overnight.
5. Heat oven to 325 F.
6. Remove foil and bake 50-60 minutes.
7. Let cool 10-15 minutes.
8. In small bowl, whisk powdered sugar and milk. Add additional, if needed, until pourable glaze is reached. Drizzle over casserole before serving.

A Fresh, Flavorful Brunch Bite

Brunch is a perfect opportunity to entertain friends and family with delicious recipes that will delight their taste buds. For example, this smooth hummus is paired with tender New Zealand grass-fed lamb loin chops and fresh toppings for flavor in every bite.

Ready in less than 30 minutes, this Spiced Grass-Fed Lamb Over Hummus recipe is made using Atkins Ranch lamb, which is available at your local Whole Foods Market and hails from New Zealand where the animals are grass-fed 365 days a year and allowed to roam and graze freely over lush green hills and pastures. The result is a lean, finely textured, flavorful meat that tastes just as nature intended.

Visit beefandlambnz.com for more recipes, cooking tips and information.

Spiced Grass-Fed Lamb Over Hummus

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Lamb:

• 4 Atkins Ranch grass-fed lamb loin chops
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Hummus:

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

For serving:

• 1 Persian cucumber, small diced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 2 tablespoons roasted pine nuts (or 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds)
• parsley, chopped
• lemon wedges
• toasted flatbread or tortilla chips

1. To make lamb: Remove lamb from bone, dice meat into small cubes and transfer to medium bowl.
2. Add cumin powder and salt. Toss to coat. Marinate while preparing hummus.
3. To make hummus: Drain chickpeas, reserving 1 tablespoon liquid. Rinse chickpeas under running water then drain.
4. In bowl of food processor, pulse chickpeas, chickpea liquid and garlic until chickpeas and garlic are chopped.
5. Add tahini, lemon juice, salt, cumin, paprika and olive oil. Mix until smooth paste forms. Taste and adjust by adding more salt, lemon juice or olive oil, as desired.
6. Transfer hummus to large platter and spread it out.
7. In large skillet, heat extra-virgin olive oil over high heat until hot. Add lamb and cook 30 seconds without moving.
8. Turn lamb over and cook 30-60 seconds, repeating until all sides are browned. Remove from pan and let rest 5 minutes.
9. To serve, place cucumbers and tomatoes in well of hummus then top with lamb, pine nuts and parsley.
10. Top with squeeze of lemon juice and serve with flatbread or tortilla chips.

Satisfy Cake Cravings with a Brunch-Worthy Dessert

Whether your brunch feast consists of bacon and eggs, pancakes and waffles or a combination of favorites, you can cap it off with a sweet treat for the perfect ending. After all, no celebration is complete without dessert.

Once the table is cleared of the main courses, dish out decadent bites of this Brown Sugar Pound Cake baked with high-quality ingredients like C&H Sugars to end the meal on a sweet note. Top with whipped cream and your crowd's favorite fruits like strawberries and blueberries or serve the toppings separately for a customizable treat.

Visit chsugar.com for more brunch recipe ideas.

Brown Sugar Pound Cake

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional for coating pan, divided
• 1 cup packed C&H Light Brown Sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• sweetened whipped cream, for topping (optional)
• fresh fruit, such as strawberries and blueberries, for topping (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Grease and flour 9-by-5-by-3-inch loaf pan. In large bowl, beat sugar and butter until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla. In separate bowl, combine 1 3/4 cups flour, baking powder and salt. Gradually add to sugar mixture. Pour batter into pan.
3. Bake 1 hour, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Remove from pan and turn out on rack to cool completely.
4. Top with sweetened whipped cream and fresh fruit, if desired.

Source: C&H Sugar
Beef + Lamb New Zealand

Family Features) As the weather turns the corner and temperatures rise, opportunities for dining outdoors and soaking up the sunshine abound. Patio meals often mean fresh flavors, making spring a perfect time for heading outside with your favorite seasonal dishes.

The freshness of Texas 1015 Sweet Onions is an ideal starting point for recipes that heighten the enjoyment of al fresco dining. As the first spring sweet onion of the season, they’re harvested and packed fresh, meaning they’re never stored. Plus, with no burning sensation when you cut them, you can skip the tears for more enjoyable meal prep.

It’s a versatile veggie that can be grilled, roasted, eaten fresh or caramelized for delightful recipes like this Flatbread with Caramelized Onions, Bacon and Arugula. Start by heating butter and olive oil then allow the onions to rest in the mixture; once they’re sweating, turn the heat down and cover the pan. Stirring every 10 minutes, cook for about 40 minutes until the onions reach a deep golden brown. In the final 10 minutes, stir in balsamic vinegar for savory flavor.

Layer the sweet, caramelized concoction along with cheese and bacon on a flatbread. Bake (or grill, if the weather allows) for 15 minutes before topping with fresh arugula for a lighter dish that reminds you springtime has arrived.

Find more recipes to celebrate spring at tx1015.com.

Storage Tips for Sweet Onions

Short-term storage for sweet onions is simple: If using them within a week, just leave them out on the counter. However, if you’re stocked up and thinking beyond a handful of days, consider these tips for keeping them fresh long-term.

1. Wrap and separate. If you plan to store in the refrigerator, wrap each bulb individually in a paper towel. Place the bulbs in the crisper with the vents closed.
    
2. Break out the pantyhose. Because sweet onions can be preserved if stored in a cool, dry place with air circulation, you can put one onion in each leg of clean pantyhose then tie a knot above the onion. Keep adding onions until each leg is full. Each time you need one, simply cut the sections based on the number of onions you need.
    
3. Keep away from spuds. Although they pair perfectly in dozens of recipes, for storage purposes, onions and potatoes don’t play nice. Storing together can cause onions to go bad quicker.

Flatbread with Caramelized Onions, Bacon and Arugula

Recipe courtesy of South Texas Onions
Servings: 2-3

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large sweet onion, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 naan flatbread (rectangular shape)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup fontina cheese, shredded
• 4 slices bacon
• arugula
• olive oil (optional)
• lemon juice (optional)

1. To make caramelized onions: In pan over medium-high heat, heat butter and olive oil. Add onions and let sit about 5 minutes. Once onions start sweating, turn heat to low and cover pan. Cook onions to deep golden brown, stirring every 10-15 minutes. With 10 minutes left, stir in balsamic vinegar.
2. To make flatbread: Preheat oven to 425 F.
3. On flatbread, layer cheese, bacon and caramelized onions. Bake 13-15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and edges are golden brown.
4. Toss arugula with olive oil and lemon juice, if desired, before placing on flatbread.

Source: South Texas Onions

(Family Features) Supplementing meals and snacks with powerful, versatile ingredients can take healthy eating from bland and boring to delicious and adventurous.

Take your breakfasts, appetizers, dinners and desserts to new heights while maintaining nutrition goals with naturally nutritious and surprisingly versatile California Prunes. Rich and smooth with an ability to enhance both sweet and savory flavors, they can expand your menu with nearly endless powerful pairing options.

One serving of 4-5 prunes packs a powerful punch of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Together, these nutrients form a web of vital functions that support overall health.

Whole, diced or pureed, the versatility of prunes allows you to enhance the flavor of recipes from morning to night in dishes like Citrus Breakfast Toast, which brings together vitamin B6 and copper from prunes and vitamin C from citrus to support a healthy immune system.

Try Caramelized Onion, Mozzarella, Prune and Thyme Flatbreads for a tasty family meal, and while you wait for dinner to cook, you can serve up Prune, Mozzarella and Basil Skewers. These easy appetizers provide several key nutrients. Mozzarella is a good source of calcium and prunes provide vitamin K and copper, all of which support overall bone health.

Make dessert a bit better for you but equally delectable with a vegan option like gluten-free, plant-based Prune and Almond Truffles. The soluble fiber in prunes helps lower serum cholesterol and blunt the effects of excessive sodium in the diet. Nuts like almonds provide good fats that help lower the risk for heart disease.

Find more recipe ideas at CaliforniaPrunes.org.

Caramelized Onion, Mozzarella, Prune and Thyme Flatbreads

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Yield: 4 flatbreads

Caramelized Onions:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup butter
• 6 large yellow sweet onions, sliced into thin half circles
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• coarse kosher salt, to taste

Flatbreads:

• 4 personal flatbreads
• 1 cup caramelized onions
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella
• 10 California Prunes, diced small
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• sea salt, to taste
• coarsely ground black pepper, to taste

1. To make caramelized onions: Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. In large stockpot over medium-low heat, warm oil and melt butter. Add onions and cover; cook 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add thyme sprigs and season with salt, to taste; turn pan lid slightly ajar. Place pot in oven 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
3. To make flatbreads: Preheat oven to broil. On sheet pan, toast flatbreads under broiler 4 minutes, or until toasted, flipping halfway through.
4. Spread 1/4 cup of caramelized onions over each toasted flatbread. Refrigerate leftover onions.
5. Tear mozzarella and place over onions. Divide prunes among flatbreads and place flatbreads under broiler 4-6 minutes until cheese has melted and is beginning to brown.
6. Sprinkle flatbreads with fresh thyme and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Citrus Breakfast Toast

Prep time: 13 minutes
Cook time: 2 minutes
Servings: 2

Prune Puree:

• 16 ounces pitted California Prunes
• 1/2 cup hot water

• 1 large citrus fruit, peels and piths removed with knife, sliced into rounds
• 1 1/2 tablespoons raw sugar
• 4 tablespoons sunflower butter
• 2 slices whole-grain sourdough bread, toasted to desired darkness
• 2 tablespoons prune puree
• 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
• 2 California Prunes, finely diced

1. To make prune puree: In blender, pulse prunes and water to combine then blend until smooth, pourable consistency forms, scraping sides, if necessary.
2. Store in airtight container up to 4 weeks.
3. To make bruleed citrus wheels: Place citrus wheels on baking sheet and divide sugar evenly among each piece.
4. Using circular motion, pass flame of culinary torch repeatedly over sugar until it boils and turns lightly charred and amber.
5. To build toast: Spread 2 tablespoons sunflower butter on each piece of toast. Top each with 1 tablespoon prune puree spread evenly across sunflower butter. Sprinkle each evenly with sunflower seeds and diced prunes. Top each with half broiled citrus and serve.
6. Alteration: Use broiler set on high instead of culinary torch to caramelize sugar.

Prune and Almond Truffles

Recipe courtesy of Meg of "This Mess is Ours"
Prep time: 45 minutes
Servings: 24

• Water
• 1 cup California Prunes
• 1 1/2 cups toasted slivered almonds, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla paste or extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

1. Boil water and pour over prunes. Soak 30 minutes; drain.
2. In food processor fitted with "S" blade, pulse 1/2 cup toasted almonds with salt, to taste, until fine crumbs form. Transfer to shallow bowl and set aside.
3. Add remaining almonds to food processor with 1/4 teaspoon salt and cocoa powder. Pulse 30 seconds to combine. Add prunes, vanilla paste and almond extract; process until combined. Mixture should be creamy with slight texture from almond crumbs. Transfer prune mixture to bowl and refrigerate 1 hour.
4. Once chilled, use small cookie scoop to portion out individual truffles on parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently roll each truffle in reserved toasted almond crumbs. Store on parchment-lined plate in refrigerator up to 2 weeks. Serve chilled.

Prune, Mozzarella and Basil Skewers

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 5

• 5 pieces prosciutto, halved lengthwise (optional)
• 10 California Prunes
• 10 basil leaves
• 10 cherry-size mozzarella balls

1. If using prosciutto, fold each half in half lengthwise so width of prune is wider than width of prosciutto. Starting at one end of prosciutto, wrap one prune; repeat with remaining prosciutto. Set aside.
2. Wrap one basil leaf around each mozzarella ball then thread onto skewer. Thread one prune or prosciutto-wrapped prune onto each skewer.

Source: California Prunes

(Family Features) Enjoying a meal outside is one of the many benefits of warmer weather, which makes spring a favorite season for those who relish the opportunity to dine outdoors. When the weather cooperates, a light dish focused around fresh ingredients is a perfect way to savor the moment.

Center your next al fresco dining occasion around a recipe like this Flatbread with Caramelized Onions, Bacon and Arugula. Whether you choose to bake this spring delight in the oven or lay it flat on the grill, it’s an easy way to enjoy fresh flavors in the sunlight.

It starts with sweet caramelized Texas 1015 onions, a versatile veggie that can be grilled, roasted or eaten fresh on salads and sandwiches. Straight from more than 100 Texas farm fields to grocery stores, the low sulfur content makes them a “no tear” onion, meaning there’s no “hot” or burning sensation when you cut or eat them.

Once the onions are caramelized, simply layer them along with cheese and bacon on a flatbread before baking or grilling less than 15 minutes. Top with arugula tossed with olive oil and lemon juice for a sweet spring eat.

Find more warm-weather recipe ideas at tx1015.com.

Flatbread with Caramelized Onions, Bacon and Arugula

Recipe courtesy of South Texas Onions
Servings: 2-3

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large sweet onion, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 naan flatbread (rectangular shape)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup fontina cheese, shredded
• 4 slices bacon
• arugula
• olive oil (optional)
• lemon juice (optional)

1. To make caramelized onions: In pan over medium-high heat, heat butter and olive oil. Add onions and let sit about 5 minutes. Once onions start sweating, turn heat to low and cover pan. Cook onions to deep golden brown, stirring every 10-15 minutes. With 10 minutes left, stir in balsamic vinegar.
2. To make flatbread: Preheat oven to 425 F.
3. On flatbread, layer cheese, bacon and caramelized onions. Bake 13-15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and edges are golden brown.
4. Toss arugula with olive oil and lemon juice, if desired, before placing on flatbread.

Source: South Texas Onions

(Family Features) During a school year that’s sure to be a new experience for students and parents alike, many of the everyday necessities, like eating breakfast and lunch, remain. However, this year, many little learners will be enjoying their lunches from the comfort and safety of home rather than at school, meaning moms and dads are back in charge of keeping the kitchen running throughout the day.

According to a survey conducted by OnePoll in conjunction with Sabra, 74% of caregivers expect this school year to be more chaotic than ever and 64% of moms and dads complain they are dreading becoming the “lunch lady” at home.

You can improve those school day blues with quick, kid-friendly recipes that refuel children for their educational explorations. By providing a steady stream of balanced meals and snacks made with wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about boosting your at-home students’ learning capabilities even during these tricky times.

In the morning, try starting with this Chocolate Banana Cinnamon Toast recipe from Tabitha Brown, the actress and vegan foodie known as “America's Mom.” Sliced banana powers this breakfast with the rich, decadent taste of Sabra Dark Chocolate Dessert Dip & Spread to thrill chocolate lovers for a combination of flavors kids love.

For a lunchtime solution with easy prep and quick cleanup, a Hummus Flatbread Pizza takes just 10-15 minutes to make. Made with easy-to-find ingredients you can keep on-hand like pizza sauce and hummus, simply top with sweet favorites like pineapple for a fun boost for long days of learning.   

To find more at-home recipe inspiration, visit sabra.com.

Hummus Flatbread Pizza

Recipe courtesy of Tabitha Brown
Prep time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: 1 flatbread

• 4          teaspoons pizza sauce
• 1          rectangular flatbread
• 3          tablespoons Sabra Classic Hummus
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder, divided
• 1/3       cup pineapple tidbits or fresh pineapple pieces
• strawberries
• chopped romaine lettuce
• English cucumber slices

1. Preheat oven to 500 F.
2. Brush pizza sauce to edges of flatbread. Swirl to spread hummus to edges of flatbread. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder over flatbread. If using canned pineapple tidbits, drain and pat dry with paper towel. Add pineapple tidbits to flatbread and sprinkle with remaining garlic powder.
3. Bake 5-10 minutes, or until flatbread is light golden brown.
4. Cool and cut flatbread. Serve with strawberries and mix chopped romaine lettuce and English cucumber slices for simple salad.

Chocolate Banana Cinnamon Toast

Recipe courtesy of Tabitha Brown
Prep time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: 2 pieces toast

• 2          slices cinnamon raisin bread
• 3          tablespoons Sabra Dark Chocolate Dessert Dip & Spread
• 6          banana slices, plus additional for serving (optional)
• 1/8       teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1          tablespoon maple syrup
• fresh strawberries (optional)
• powdered sugar

1. Toast bread to desired doneness.
2. Using spoon, swirl to spread 1 1/2 tablespoons chocolate spread on each slice of toast.
3. Add banana slices to one slice of toast and sprinkle with cinnamon.
4. Top with second slice of toast.
5. Slice in half diagonally. Add to plate with extra sliced banana and fresh strawberries, if desired. Drizzle toast with maple syrup and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Source: Sabra

(Family Features) Burgers and brats have earned a spot in the backyard barbecue hall of fame, no doubt, but if you’re looking for a different type of barbecue, add some finesse to your menu with flatbreads.

Set up a DIY bar. Let guests flex their creative culinary muscles and curb their cravings with a selection of toppings. Offer a variety of proteins, plenty of veggies, fresh or dry herbs, seasonings and a selection of cheeses so everyone can make a personal masterpiece. Ingredients can quickly dry out on the grill, so be sure to include dressings like pesto, hummus or herb-infused olive oil.

Re-imagine favorites off the grill. A sizzling steak sprinkled with blue cheese is a classic barbecue choice, but try serving it on grilled flatbread for a new menu option that is sure to delight. To make a Steak and Blue Cheese Flatbread, grill a flatbread for a few minutes and top with hummus and flank steak to add a bright flavor and mouthwatering texture to your dish. An option like Sabra Hummus is available in more than a dozen flavors to complement your favorite dishes.

Incorporate non-traditional ideas. While many backyard cookouts feature meat, veggies like corn, asparagus and mushrooms can add big flavors for those with different dietary restrictions. Choose your desired produce and grill until tender then add light seasoning for a fresh take on summer grilling with a dish such as this Vegan Garden Flatbread.

Look for more recipes to serve this summer at Sabra.com/flatbread.

Steak and Blue Cheese Flatbread

Yield: 1 flatbread

• 1          flatbread, any variety
• 3          tablespoons Sabra Classic Hummus
• 1/2       cup fresh arugula, rinsed and dried
• 4          ounces thinly sliced, cooked flank steak
• 1/4       cup crumbled blue cheese
• thinly sliced red onion (optional)
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

1. Heat grill (or oven) to 450° F; bake flatbread 3-5 minutes until it begins to crisp.
2. Spread hummus onto flatbread. Layer arugula (reserving 3-4 leaves to garnish), steak and crumbled blue cheese. Top with onion, if desired.
3. Place on grill, close lid and cook 3-5 minutes (if using oven, broil approximately 2 minutes).
4. Add salt and pepper, to taste, before serving.

Vegan Garden Flatbread

Yield: 1 flatbread

• 1          flatbread, any variety
• 2          tablespoons basil pesto (prepared or homemade)
• 2          tablespoons Sabra Classic Hummus
• 3-4       white button mushrooms
• 2          tablespoons corn (fresh or frozen)
• 3          spears asparagus, cooked until just tender
• 1/4       cup vegan mozzarella cheese, shredded
• olive oil
• red pepper flakes (optional)
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

1. Heat grill (or oven) to 450° F; bake flatbread 3-5 minutes until it begins to crisp.
2. Spread pesto, followed by hummus, over flatbread then layer mushrooms, corn and asparagus. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. Place on grill, close lid and cook 3-5 minutes (if using oven, broil approximately 3 minutes).
4. Drizzle with olive oil; sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if desired. Add salt and pepper, to taste, before serving.

Source: Sabra

(Family Features) From office potlucks and cocktail parties to family dinners and beyond, the mealtime celebrations during the holidays are endless. Whether you're serving as a host or bringing your signature dish to a get-together, these tips can help you own the holiday season without breaking a sweat:

1. Stick with fewer, easy-to-find, high-quality ingredients.
2. Look for products that help you cut down on time but don't skimp on flavor, like Smithfield Marinated Fresh Pork, which is pre-seasoned and comes in a variety of cuts and flavors.
3. Sprinkle and decorate finished dishes with fresh, seasonal herbs for a festive touch.

To help get you inspired in the kitchen, try this recipe for Fresh Pork and Kalamata Flatbreads for a savory appetizer made with less than 10 ingredients, or Fresh Pork with Sweet Balsamic-Red Wine Reduction for a decadent main course you can have ready in just 30 minutes.

For more quick and easy holiday recipe ideas, visit SmithfieldRealFlavorRealFast.com.  

Fresh Pork with Sweet Balsamic-Red Wine Reduction

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          Smithfield Applewood Smoked Bacon Marinated Fresh Pork Loin Filet
• 1          tablespoon olive oil, divided
• 1/3       cup dry red wine
• 3          tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2          tablespoons sugar
• 1          teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary

1. Cut pork loin filet into 3/4-to-1-inch thick chops.
2. In large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil.
3. Cook half the pork chops 4-5 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 150° F. Remove pork chops from skillet and place on rimmed serving platter; cover to keep warm. Repeat with remaining olive oil and pork chops.
4. In same skillet, combine wine, vinegar and sugar. Bring to boil over medium-high heat; cook 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened, or until liquid is reduced to 1/4 cup.
5. Serve pork chops drizzled with wine reduction and sprinkled with rosemary.

Fresh Pork and Kalamata Flatbreads

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1          Smithfield Roasted Garlic & Cracked Black Pepper Marinated Fresh Pork Tenderloin
• 1          tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1          can (13.8 ounces) refrigerated pizza crust dough
• 3/4       cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil
• 1/2       cup sliced Kalamata olives, drained
• 1          teaspoon crushed dried rosemary

1. Cut pork tenderloin into 3/4-inch cubes.
2. Heat oven to 400° F. In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Stir-fry pork 8-10 minutes, or until well browned.
3. Unroll pizza dough and press onto greased sheet pan, about 18-by-13 inches; cut into six rectangles.
4. Drain tomatoes, reserving oil. Brush tops of flatbreads with sun-dried tomato oil, reserving about 1 tablespoon. Top with pork, drained tomatoes, olives and rosemary, pressing into dough lightly with fingertips.
5. Bake 18-21 minutes until edges are golden brown.
6. Remove from oven. Drizzle remaining sun-dried tomato olive oil evenly over flatbreads; let stand on baking sheet 2 minutes before serving.

Source: Smithfield

Sensible tips for healthy eating

(Family Features) With so many social events that revolve around food, it’s not easy to get a fresh start on making healthy food choices. However, with a little thought and planning, you can prevent taking your body on a roller coaster ride – without having to choose between food deprivation and satisfaction.

“Whether you are hosting an event or attending someone else’s celebration, planning ahead can help you stay on track,” said Mitzi Dulan, a registered dietitian and nationally recognized nutrition and wellness expert. “Having quick and simple strategies and recipes on hand makes it easy to eat well and keep you feeling great.”

Put a winning plan in place to take a new look at your approach to eating smart with these tips from Dulan, who is the team nutritionist for the World Series champion Kansas City Royals.

Don’t skip meals.
Although skipping breakfast may seem like a good way to cut calories, it’s a plan that can actually backfire, making you hungrier as the day wears on, and more likely to overeat or sneak unhealthy snacks. Start each day with a well-rounded breakfast to fuel your body. Apply a similar approach to events later in the day, as well. You may be tempted to skip a meal so you can enjoy the treats at a party, but chances are you’ll end up overdoing it with high-calorie indulgences, so make sure you fuel up ahead of time.

Love what you eat.
Be mindful of the food you eat and make every bite count. Enjoying each delicious taste will make it easier to stick to a sensible eating plan. For the foods you do love, look for ways to make them better – better for you, that is. For example, if pizza is your weak spot, substitute a lower-calorie crust, such as Flatout Flatbread. Then choose toppings wisely to amp up the flavor while managing added fat and calories.

Eat smaller portions.
When you simply must indulge, you may be surprised to hear “go ahead,” but to do so in moderation. One clever way to keep your portions small: use a tablespoon, not a serving spoon to dish out portions. Then eat slowly so your body has time to tell your brain you’re full.

Get your fill in healthy ways.
Overeating often comes down to a very basic cause: hunger. Becoming more conscious of how you answer your hunger will help you stay on track. Drinking water before and during events will help to fill you up so you are less likely to consume excess calories. Snacking throughout the day can also help keep hunger at bay; several small, healthy snacks, such as a handful of nuts or trail mix, can help keep you feeling full. Also, remember to stop eating when you feel satisfied, but before you feel full.

To find a Flatout Flatbread retailer near you, visit FlatoutFinder.com.

Barbecue Chicken Flatbread Pizza

Recipe created by Mitzi Dulan, RD

• non-stick baking spray
• 2 Flatout Flatbreads
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/3 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 6 ounces grilled chicken breast, torn into pieces
• 1 tablespoon red onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped

1. Heat oven to 400°F.
2. Spray large baking sheet with non-stick baking spray. Place flatbreads on baking sheet. On each flatbread, evenly spread 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce.
3. Sprinkle both cheeses over flatbreads. Mix remaining barbecue sauce with grilled chicken and place on pizzas. Top with diced onion. Bake 5 minutes. Sprinkle cilantro on top and serve.

Thin Crust Pepperoni Pizza

• 1 Flatout Flatbread Artisan Thin Pizza Crust
• 1/4 cup chunky red sauce
• 3 slices provolone cheese
• 1/4 cup mozzarella, shredded
• 30 pepperoni mini slices

1. Heat oven or grill to 375°F.
2. Place flatbread on cookie sheet. Bake 2 minutes. Remove from oven. Spread sauce on flatbread. Lay provolone on top of sauce. Top with mozzarella and pepperoni. Return to oven and bake 4 more minutes, or until cheese melts.
3. Grilling method: Heat grill to 375°F. Pre-bake flatbread on grill for 2 minutes. Remove from grill. Spread sauce on flatbread. Lay provolone on top of sauce. Top with mozzarella and pepperoni. Return flatbread to grill. Close lid. Grill for 4 minutes, or until cheese melts.

Arugula Mushroom Flatbread Pizza

• 1 Flatout Flatbread
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, cooked
• 1/2 cup arugula
• 6 grape tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fat-free balsamic vinegar

1. Heat grill or oven to 375°F.
2. Pre-bake flatbread for 2 minutes. Remove.
3. Warm mushrooms in microwave or pan. Top flatbread with arugula, tomatoes and mushrooms. Sprinkle with cheese and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Cut into slices.

Thin Crust Egg, Sausage and Pepper Breakfast Pizza

• 1 Flatout Flatbread Artisan Thin Pizza Crust
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
• 2 eggs, lightly scrambled
• 3 ounces sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 2 ounces yellow peppers, diced
• 2 ounces red peppers, diced

1. Heat oven to 375 F.
2. Place flatbread on cookie sheet. Bake for 2 minutes. Remove from oven. Top flatbread with cheese, scrambled egg, sausage and peppers. Return to oven and bake 4 more minutes, or until cheese melts.
3. Grilling method: Heat grill to 375 F. Pre-bake flatbread on grill for 1-2 minutes. Remove from grill. Top flatbread with cheese, scrambled egg, sausage and peppers. Return to grill. Close lid. Grill 4 more minutes, or until cheese melts.

Source: Flatout Flatbread