(Family Features) Mealtime traditions are common among many families, from taco Tuesdays to weekend favorites. You can add a special touch to one of the most popular traditions – taco night – with a plant-based twist.

With a nutty, smoky and truly meaty taste and texture, pecans offer a perfect plant-based protein to incorporate in favorite dishes like tacos. However, great taste is just the beginning – pecans pack a nutritious punch with a unique mix of health-promoting nutrients while shining in a wide range of flavor profiles.

To help make your next taco night all the rage among loved ones, the American Pecan Promotion Board recommends serving up authentic vegan taco recipes using pecans in place of meat in dishes like Smoky Chipotle Pecan Burrito Bowls and Vegan Pecan Al Pastor Tacos. Their texture makes them uniquely suited as a meat alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor so it can taste like the original and leave your family clamoring to keep taco night on the weekly menu.

Learn more and discover delicious plant-based recipes at eatpecans.com.

Smoky Chipotle Pecan Burrito Bowls

Recipe courtesy of Dominique Williamson on behalf of the American Pecan Promotion Board
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2-3

Pecan “Meat:”

• 2 1⁄2     cups water
• 1          cup pecans
• 1⁄2         cup portobello mushrooms
• 2          tablespoons taco seasoning
• 2          tablespoons tamari sauce or soy sauce
• 2          cloves garlic, minced
• 1          tablespoon liquid smoke
• 1          tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
• 1          tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce

Pineapple Salsa:

• 1          pineapple, diced
• 2          Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1-2       jalapenos, diced
• 1          cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 1          red onion, diced
• 1⁄4        cup lime juice
•            salt, to taste

Chipotle Crema:

• 2          chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1          cup vegan mayo
• 3          cloves garlic, minced
• 2          teaspoons vinegar
• 2          tablespoons plant-based milk
• 1          teaspoon agave
• 1⁄2         teaspoon salt

1. To make pecan “meat:” In bowl of boiling water, soak pecans, covered, at least 30 minutes, or overnight in room temperature water for softer texture.
2. Drain pecans and place in food processor with mushrooms. Pulse mixture to texture resembling meat crumbles. Avoid over-pulsing.
3. In pan over medium heat, add pecan mixture, taco seasoning, tamari sauce, minced garlic, liquid smoke and vegan Worcestershire sauce. Cook 7-10 minutes then add chipotle in adobo. Cook 3 minutes.
4. To make pineapple salsa: Combine pineapple, tomatoes, jalapenos, cilantro, red onion, lime juice and salt, to taste.
5. To make chipotle crema: Combine chipotle peppers, vegan mayo, garlic, vinegar, milk, agave and salt.
6. To assemble bowls, place pecan mixture in bowl followed by pineapple salsa and chipotle crema.

Vegan Pecan Al Pastor Tacos

Recipe courtesy of the American Pecan Promotion Board
Prep time: 35 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

•             Water
• 2          pounds chopped pecans
• 1          cup onion
• 8          cloves garlic, minced
• 8          dried guajillo peppers
• 2          tablespoons oil
•             salt, to taste
•             pepper, to taste
• 7          ounces (1 can) chipotle peppers in adobo

Toppings and Garnishes:

• flour or corn tortillas (6 inches each)
• cilantro
• diced onion
• lime
• pineapple

1. In bowl of boiling water, soak pecans, covered, at least 30 minutes, or overnight in room temperature water for softer texture.
2. Drain pecans. In food processor, pulse pecans to meat-like crumbles. Do not overprocess to pecan butter.
3. Finely chop onions, garlic and guajillo peppers.
4. In skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil and saute onions until transparent, 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, to taste, and stir to combine.
5. Add chipotle peppers in adobo and cook 1 minute. Add crumbled pecans and stir well to combine.
6. Remove from heat and serve on tortillas.
7. Serve with cilantro, onion, lime and pineapple.

Source: American Pecan Promotion Board

(Family Features) Before the end zone dances and sideline celebrations, settling in for a winning game day experience starts with delicious foods. Whether your football parties take place at home, in the backyard or right outside the stadium, kicking it off with savory appetizers can get the crowd on its feet.

Keep your game plan simple this season and light up the scoreboard with fan favorites like dips and wings. These versions are both easy to prepare and can be enjoyed fresh or made in advance and kept warm or reheated to energize your fellow diehards.

Visit Culinary.net to find more touchdown-worthy tailgate recipes.

Add Savory Spice to Game Day Celebrations

Powering up for a successful game day starts with a pregame spread, and no tailgate or homegate is complete without a spicy dip that brings the heat.

This Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip is a perfect solution for firing up your crowd as it requires little preparation so you save precious time before kickoff. Whether you bake shortly before the game begins or make it ahead of time for a parking lot party, simply keep it warm and serve with chips or veggie sticks for a quick, shareable appetizer.

Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip

Servings: 3-4

• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, plus additional for topping, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 heavy pinch dried dill
• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 2 green onions, chopped
• blue cheese crumbles
• chips
• vegetable sticks

1. Heat oven to 400 F.
2. In bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and dried dill until combined. Add hot sauce; mix until combined.
3. Transfer mixture from bowl to oven-safe dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, to taste.
4. Bake until cheese is melted, approximately 15 minutes.
5. Top with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onion.
6. Serve warm with chips and vegetable sticks.

Score a Touchdown with a Game Day Dip

One of the best ways to take tailgating to the next level this season is by making healthier versions of classic game day fare. For example, you can be the MVP of your game day gathering with a delicious, hall-of-fame-worthy appetizer. Call an audible by using fresh, easy and healthy ingredients to make it better for you and score extra points with family and friends.

This Game Day Taco Dip takes fan-favorite flavors – beef, refried beans, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes and black olives – and adds a twist with the Fresh Express Butter Supreme Salad kit. This tasty, colorful blend of green butter lettuce, red butter lettuce, radicchio and baby chard is available in the refrigerated produce department and is perfect for creating healthier versions of beloved tailgating dips, snacks, finger foods and more.

Visit FreshExpress.com to discover more winning game day recipe ideas and find a retailer near you.

Game Day Taco Dip

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 12

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 package (1 ounce) taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans, zesty salsa flavor
• 1 jar (16 ounces) thick and chunky salsa, medium or hot
• 2 cups guacamole
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3 packages (5 ounces each) Fresh Express Butter Supreme
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
• 1 can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained
• 1 package (14 ounces) tortilla chips

1. In skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef 5 minutes, or until no longer pink. Sprinkle with taco seasoning; mix well. Add water; cook 2 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Transfer to bowl; cool to room temperature. Add cilantro; mix well.
2. In 9-inch pie plate, evenly spread refried beans; top with seasoned ground beef and salsa. Add spoonfuls of guacamole across top of salsa then carefully spread to smooth.
3. Place sour cream in small resealable bag; cut off corner. Pipe sour cream to create football shape on guacamole.
4. Put pie plate in center of 15-by-18-inch tray. Arrange salad blend around pie plate. Top with cheddar cheese, tomatoes and olives. Serve with tortilla chips.

Just Wing It

Skip the silverware at your next homegate and dive right in with a fan favorite that requires just your hands and a heap of napkins: wings.

Whether you pick through your pieces or clean each wing to the bone, these Game Day Chicken Wings are perfect for eaters of all types. A simple flour-based coating keeps the recipe easy to make and baking in the oven means you can skip the messy fryer or firing up the grill.

Cook until crispy then corral your party’s favorite dipping sauces from ranch and blue cheese to barbecue and more. Once your spread is served, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the game.

Game Day Chicken Wings

Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1/2 cup butter, cubed
• 1/3 cup flour
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 10 chicken wingettes, thawed
• dipping sauces (optional)
• fresh parsley (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
2. Line baking sheet with foil. Arrange butter cubes on foil.
3. In medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
4. Coat both sides of wings in flour mixture then evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet.
5. Bake wings 30 minutes.
6. Turn wings over and bake 15 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked.
7. Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired.

Source: Fresh Express

(Family Features) Regardless of your motivation, opting for meatless meals regularly provides plenty of benefits that extend from the health of you and your loved ones to your wallet and the environment. 

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, considering making some lifestyle changes or just want to give an on-trend meal prep strategy a try, going meatless can help reduce your intake of red and processed meats, decrease greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change and save money on substitute ingredients like grains, vegetables, fruits and legumes that are often cheaper than meat.

For example, starting with a versatile pantry staple like Success Brown Rice can make mealtimes quick and easy. Ready in just 10 minutes without measuring or the mess, the fluffy, nutty, non-GMO rice is free of MSG and preservatives, lending itself perfectly to satisfying and hearty meals like these Baked Vegetarian Taquitos. Or for a twist on a classic dish, Tri-Color Quinoa can be layered with traditional flavors in this Mushroom Spinach “Lasagna.” Packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids, the quinoa is a good source of fiber.

To find more meatless meal inspiration, visit SuccessRice.com.

Baked Vegetarian Taquitos

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1 bag Success Brown Rice
• 1 cup shredded collard greens, packed
• 1/4 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 8 flour tortillas (6 inches each)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• sour cream, for dipping
• salsa, for dipping
• guacamole, for dipping
• fresh cilantro, for garnish

1. Prepare rice according to package directions; add collard greens and corn to water during last 5 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 450 F. Drain rice and vegetables; transfer to saucepan. Stir in black beans, pumpkin puree and taco seasoning.
3. Spoon 1/3 cup rice mixture into center of one tortilla; sprinkle with 2 tablespoons Monterey Jack cheese. Roll up tightly. Place seam side down on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas, filling and cheese. Brush taquitos with olive oil; sprinkle with remaining cheese.
4. Bake 10-15 minutes, or until tortillas are crisp and cheese is melted.
5. Serve taquitos with sour cream, salsa and guacamole for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Mushroom Spinach "Lasagna"

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

• 2 bags Success Tri-Color Quinoa
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups baby spinach leaves
• 3 cups tomato sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1. Prepare quinoa according to package directions.
2. Preheat oven to 375 F.
3. In large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onions; saute 1 minute. Add mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce and keep warm.
4. In medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
5. Place 1 cup sauce in bottom of 2-quart baking dish. Spread half of quinoa evenly over sauce. Top with half of ricotta mixture. Top with 1 cup sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake uncovered 30 minutes. Serve warm.

Source: Success Rice

(Family Features) Gathering your team to plan for a truly memorable game day at home starts with almost everyone’s favorite part of the festivities: the food. From meaty meals and zesty appetizers to sweet, long-lasting snacks, fuel your crowd with recipes that keep them coming back from kickoff to overtime.

One superstar of the menu at many homegating parties is salsa, whether it’s used as a finishing touch in recipes or as a standalone snack to enjoy with chips, veggies or other pairings. In fact, according to the Game Day Eats Report from Fresh Cravings, 22% of guests would insist on running out to pick up salsa if it wasn’t available for the feast; 18% would even be devastated and consider leaving.

Chef Anthony Serrano recommends these all-American recipes he makes for his family on game day. Pulled Beef and Slaw Sliders are perfect for piling high with delicious toppings before hitting the couch just in time for kickoff. Snacking throughout the action is a preferred approach for many fans, making Cast-Iron Smoked Queso Dip and Hummus Deviled Eggs go-to options for armchair quarterbacks.

These crowd-pleasers make game day worth celebrating, especially if you use a salsa with high-quality ingredients like vine-ripened tomatoes, crisp vegetables, zesty peppers and spices found in Fresh Cravings Salsas. Their flavor-packed, vibrant recipe offers a homemade-tasting alternative to the softer, duller blends of jarred salsa.

To find more championship-level game day recipe inspiration, visit FreshCravings.com.

Pulled Beef and Slaw Sliders

Recipe courtesy of chef Anthony Serrano

Pulled Beef:

• 2 pieces (about 3 pounds each) beef chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning or barbecue rub
• 1 cup beef bone broth
• 16 ounces Fresh Cravings Chunky Mild Salsa

Salsa and Queso Slaw:

• 16 ounces Fresh Cravings Chunky Mild Salsa
• 16 ounces broccoli slaw blend
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup crumbled queso fresco
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons cilantro (optional)

• slider buns
• Fresh Cravings Salsa
• barbecue sauce
• pickles
• jalapenos
• sliced cheese
• roasted peppers
• onions

1. To make pulled beef: Season both sides of beef with taco seasoning. Wrap with plastic wrap and place in fridge 2-12 hours before cooking.
2. Place meat, beef bone broth and salsa in pressure cooker; seal according to pressure cooker directions. Cook on high 60 minutes. Once pressure cooker is safe to open according to instructions, open and let meat rest in liquid 15 minutes.
3. Remove meat from liquid and place in large bowl. Carefully shred meat. Pour liquid, up to half, over meat while shredding to keep it juicy.
4. To make salsa and queso slaw: In large bowl, mix salsa, slaw blend, green onions, salt, queso fresco, Dijon mustard, mayo, apple cider vinegar and cilantro, if desired. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until needed.
5. To assemble sliders, place pulled beef and salsa and queso slaw on buns. Top with salsa, barbecue sauce, pickles, jalapenos, sliced cheese, roasted peppers and onions.

Cast-Iron Smoked Queso Dip

Recipe courtesy of chef Anthony Serrano

• 2 cups cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 teaspoon almond flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Fresh Cravings Restaurant Style Salsa
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 cup cooked chorizo
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• cilantro, for garnish
• diced bell pepper, for garnish

1. In cast-iron pan, mix cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese and almond flour. Pour in heavy cream and salsa; bring to gentle simmer. Whisk while simmering 5-7 minutes, or until queso dip begins to thicken. Add paprika, salt, chorizo and liquid smoke; adjust seasoning as necessary.
2. Garnish with cilantro and bell pepper.

Hummus Deviled Eggs

Recipe courtesy of chef Anthony Serrano

• 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
• 1/4 cup Fresh Cravings Classic Hummus
• 1/4 cup smoked cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• smoked Spanish paprika, for garnish
• parsley, for garnish

1. Cut hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks and place in bowl. Using fork, mash yolks into fine crumble.
2. Add hummus, cheese, bacon, mustard and salt; mix well.
3. Evenly disperse teaspoons of yolk mixture into egg whites. Sprinkle with any remaining bacon, paprika and parsley.

Source: Fresh Cravings

(Family Features) Ease and convenience can go a long way toward creating weeknight meals that bring the entire family together, which is why it’s helpful to focus your favorite dishes around main ingredients that simplify dinner routines.

Versatile proteins like veal open many possibilities from decadent, romantic meals to easy and beginner-friendly options. Its flavor is light, making it a blank canvas for discovery by pairing it with different combinations of sauces, spices, cheeses and more.

You can be confident in the taste of veal as your main ingredient in these Veal Tex Mex Stuffed Shells, a quick and easy dinner perfect for hectic weeknights. Requiring just over half an hour in the kitchen, jumbo pasta shells are loaded with taco-flavored ground veal and melted cream cheese then topped with your favorite taco sauce.

It offers a new, exciting recipe to add to the family menu while also providing nutrition; a 3-ounce serving of veal includes 27 grams of protein, which is more than half of the daily value for a 2,000-calorie diet.

Discover more quick and easy recipe ideas at Veal.org, funded by Beef Farmers and Ranchers.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Veal Tex Mex Stuffed Shells

Prep time:  20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1          pound ground veal
• 1/2       cup diced onion
• 1/2       cup diced poblano pepper
• 1          package (1 1/4 ounces) taco seasoning
• 1/2       cup water
• 4          ounces cream cheese
• 2          cups shredded colby jack cheese, divided
• 20        jumbo pasta shells
• 1 1/2    cups salsa
• 1          cup taco sauce

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground veal, diced onion and diced pepper until meat is no longer pink, 5-7 minutes. 
3. Stir in taco seasoning and water.
4. Break cream cheese into chunks and add to skillet; simmer 3-4 minutes, or until cream cheese melts into veal mixture. 
5. Remove from heat and add 1/2 cup colby jack cheese; stir to combine.
6. Bring large pot of salted water to boil and add pasta shells. Cook according to package directions and drain.
7. Immediately separate shells on plate to avoid sticking together. 
8. Pour salsa into 13-by-9-inch baking dish and spread to cover bottom. 
9. Fill each pasta shell with 1-2 tablespoons veal mixture and place in baking dish.
10. Top stuffed shells with taco sauce and sprinkle remaining colby jack cheese on top.
11. Bake 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and shells are heated through. 

Source: New York Beef Council

(Family Features) Scoring big on game day requires championship-level meals and snacks that keep the crowd full and ready for action. You can take your tailgate to the house with these baked dishes that help simplify homegating so you can focus on the big screen.

From a salsa-based dip and chicken wings to kick off the party to sweet brownies for celebrating victory, each of these recipes call for less than an hour in the kitchen. Clock management is key to tackling a tailgate spread, making these delicious dishes the perfect play calls on game day.

To find more tailgate and homegate recipe inspiration, visit Culinary.net.

Just Wing It

Skip the silverware at your next homegate and dive right in with a fan favorite that requires just your hands and a heap of napkins: wings.

Whether you pick through your pieces or clean each wing to the bone, these Game Day Chicken Wings are perfect for eaters of all types. A simple flour-based coating keeps the recipe easy to make and baking in the oven means you can skip the messy fryer or firing up the grill.

Cook until crispy then corral your party’s favorite dipping sauces from ranch and blue cheese to barbecue and more. Once your spread is served, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the game.

Visit Culinary.net to find more touchdown-worthy tailgate recipes.

Game Day Chicken Wings

Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1/2       cup butter, cubed
• 1/3       cup flour
• 2          teaspoons paprika
• 1          teaspoon garlic powder
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 1          teaspoon black pepper
• 10        chicken wingettes, thawed
• dipping sauces (optional)
• fresh parsley (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
2. Line baking sheet with foil. Arrange butter cubes on foil.
3. In medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
4. Coat both sides of wings in flour mixture then evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet.
5. Bake wings 30 minutes.
6. Turn wings over and bake 15 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked.
7. Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired.

Score Big with a Salsa-Based Dip

Whether your game day celebrations call for a full-blown parking lot party or homegating with your closest friends, the nibbles and noshes you serve set the stage. Building your menu with crowd-pleasing classics – including one tried-and-true favorite that offers a fresh, veggie-forward taste: chilled salsa – makes your guests cheer for more than just the home team.

Healthy game day snacks are important to almost half (48%) of tailgaters and 18% said they’d consider leaving a party if salsa wasn’t served, according to the “Game Day Eats Report” survey from refrigerated salsa brand Fresh Cravings. With its low calorie count packed with high flavor, salsa supports health-conscious goals. Made with ingredients like fresh tomatoes, crisp vegetables, zesty peppers and more, the authentic taste of chilled salsa is a universal favorite among fans.

With a belief that plant-based foods should contain wholesome ingredients and bold flavors worth celebrating, Fresh Cravings refrigerated salsas are available in the produce section, next to dressings and dips, in restaurant-style or chunky mild, medium and hot varieties. Chilled salsa is an affordable and vibrant-tasting alternative to jarred salsa, making it a key ingredient in this Mexican Pizza Dip from celebrity chef George Duran. It’s a simple crowd-pleaser you can make in less than an hour, leaving more time for pregame festivities.

For more information and game day recipe ideas, visit freshcravings.com.

Mexican Pizza Dip

Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran
Servings: 6-8

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1          tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1          pound ground beef
• 1          package taco seasoning mix
• 8          ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/2       cup sour cream
• 1          cup Fresh Cravings Chunky Salsa, plus additional for topping
• 1          cup grated mozzarella
• 1/2       cup blended Mexican cheese
• sliced jalapeno (optional)
• sliced black olives (optional)
• green onions (optional)
• tortilla chips

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Spray 8-by-8-inch glass pan or large souffle dish with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
3. In large saute pan, heat oil over medium-high heat and add ground beef, breaking up with flat wooden spatula, until fully cooked. Sprinkle taco seasoning throughout beef and combine.
4. Place warm beef mixture in large bowl and add cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup salsa and mozzarella. Mix well until combined and pour into prepared pan. Top with blended cheese and sliced jalapeno, black olives and green onions, if desired.
5. Bake until fully warmed and cheese is melted, 30-35 minutes.
6. Top with small spoonfuls of salsa. Serve with tortilla chips.

Cap Off Game Day with an All-Star Combo

Pregame festivities call for salty snacks and meaty morsels, but halftime eating and postgame celebrations are perfect for sweet treats.

You can sweeten up your tailgate or homegate with a shareable option like Marbled Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownies made with Domino Golden Sugar, which is made from pure cane sugar and dissolves and measures cup for cup just like white granulated sugar without compromising performance or taste. Featuring an undefeated combination of peanut butter and chocolate, this dessert is ideal for baking a day ahead so you can manage the clock on game day.

Find more tailgating sweets at dominosugar.com.

Marbled Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownies

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Yield: 24 brownies

Chocolate Brownies:

• 1/2       cup (1/4 pound) butter
• 2          ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
• 1          cup Domino Golden Sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2          eggs
• 1/2       cup all-purpose flour

Peanut Butter Marble:

• 1/4       cup natural (no added sugar) peanut butter
• 4          tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/2       cup Domino Golden Sugar
• 1          egg
• 1/4       teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4       cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4       teaspoon baking powder

• powdered sugar, for topping (optional)

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. To make chocolate brownies: In medium saucepot over low heat, melt butter and chocolate. Remove pot from heat; stir in sugar and vanilla until blended.
3. In small mixing bowl, whisk eggs until frothy then stir into chocolate mixture.
4. Sift flour into batter and stir just until smooth. Pour batter into prepared pan, smoothing to edges.
5. To make peanut butter marble: In mixing bowl, cream peanut butter, butter and sugar. Add egg and vanilla; beat just until blended. In separate bowl, sift or whisk flour and baking powder then stir into batter just until combined.
6. Carefully spread peanut butter marble over chocolate batter. Use knife to swirl batters together, first horizontally then diagonally.
7. Bake 20 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out almost clean. Cool completely on wire rack before cutting. Top with powdered sugar, if desired, before serving.

Source:Fresh Cravings
Domino Sugar

(Family Features) As kids and parents return to busy schedules full of sports, homework and weeknight activities, building a plan for nutritious and easy meals can be challenging. Piecing together a menu that fuels active minds without spending hours in the kitchen is a common goal for many families.

These recipes require minimal prep and call for on-hand ingredients like dairy food favorites that provide nutrients people of all ages need to grow and maintain strong bodies and minds.

Whether you enjoy it together in the morning before getting the day started or mix it up with breakfast for dinner, this Sustainable Frittata is called “sustainable” because you can use leftover cheeses, veggies, ham, sausage and more to recycle ingredients you already have on hand.

For a customizable kid-pleaser, turn to Chopped Chicken Taco Salad and garnish with your family’s favorite toppings. When it’s time to put a twist on a classic while changing up your dinner routine, Roasted Red Pepper and Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are perfect for putting something new on the table. Make supper a cinch with Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese, which lets you put the work in the hands of your slow cooker for a versatile dish that can be served when homework is finished.

Visit milkmeansmore.org to find more recipes perfect for bringing loved ones together.

Chopped Chicken Taco Salad

Recipe courtesy of Megan Gundy of “What Megan’s Making” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Dressing:

• 1          cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/3       cup buttermilk, plus additional (optional)
• 1          tablespoon fresh-squeezed lime juice, plus additional (optional)
• 3          tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 2          tablespoons taco seasoning

Salad:

• 2          pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2          tablespoons taco seasoning
• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 1          head leaf lettuce, chopped
• 1          avocado, chopped into bite- sized pieces
• 1          cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1          cup corn
• 1          pint grape or cherry tomatoes, chopped
• 1          cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Mexican)
• tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips, for topping

1. To make dressing: In small bowl, stir yogurt, buttermilk, lime juice, cilantro and taco seasoning until combined. Taste and adjust lime juice and cilantro as needed. If dressing is too thick, add buttermilk 1 teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. To make salad: Season chicken on both sides with taco seasoning. Heat large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add chicken to pan and cook on both sides until outside is golden brown and chicken is cooked through. Remove to cutting board and slice into strips.
3. On large platter, heap chopped lettuce. Sprinkle chicken over top. Add avocado, beans, corn, tomatoes and shredded cheese. Drizzle dressing on top and sprinkle with tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips.

Sustainable Frittata

Recipe courtesy of Jenn Fillenworth of “Jenny With the Good Eats” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8

• 12        eggs, beaten
• 1/4       cup whole milk, half and half or heavy cream
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 2          cups shredded cheese, any variety
• 3          cups assorted cooked vegetables and pre-cooked meats
• fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 450 F.
2. Preheat cast-iron pan or oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
3. In large bowl, mix eggs, milk and salt then add shredded cheese.
4. Add cooked vegetables and meats to pan to reheat. Once vegetables have softened, add egg mixture to pan and scramble. Let sit over medium heat 1 minute.
5. Carefully transfer to oven and bake 10-15 minutes. Frittata is done when eggs have set. Remove from oven and top with fresh herbs.

Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese

Recipe courtesy of Rachel Gurk of “Rachel Cooks” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Servings: 8

• 16        ounces elbow pasta
• 4          tablespoons butter
• 3          ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
• 2          cups whole milk
• 12        ounces evaporated milk
• 1/2       cup light sour cream
• 2          large eggs, beaten
• 3/4       teaspoon ground mustard
• pepper, to taste
• 8          ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8          ounces grated provolone cheese

1. Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain and pour into large slow cooker.
2. In small saucepan over medium heat, whisk butter and cream cheese until melted. Stir in milk, evaporated milk and sour cream; whisk until combined. Remove from heat; whisk in eggs, ground mustard and pepper, to taste. Stir in cheeses. Pour mixture over cooked macaroni and stir to combine cheese and pasta.
3. Cover and cook 2 hours on low. Switch to warm until ready to serve.

Roasted Red Pepper and Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Recipe courtesy of Katie Serbinski of “Mom to Mom Nutrition” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2

• 4          slices French or Italian bread
• 3          tablespoons prepared pesto
• 2          large roasted red peppers
• 4          slices mozzarella cheese
• 2          tablespoons butter, softened

1. Preheat skillet or grill pan over medium-low heat.
2. Spread insides of bread slices evenly with pesto. Stack red peppers and mozzarella cheese.
3. Spread outer sides of bread with softened butter and grill until toasted and cheese is melted, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Rest 1 minute before cutting.

Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan

(Family Features) Between the time it takes to plan healthy meals and the actual minutes spent in the kitchen, it can be easy for some families to let nutrition fall by the wayside. However, all it takes is a little twist on your loved ones’ favorite meals to free up those valuable moments while taking health into account.

These Sheet Pan Mushroom Fajitas, for example, offer a meatless version of an ethnic meal many families love. Gather fresh onions and bell peppers to mix with earthy, wholesome mushrooms as the heart of this plant-forward dish. Slice, season with taco seasoning, toss with vegetable oil and bake for less than half an hour for a family dinner that’s as simple as it is flavorful. Plus, you can garnish the fajitas with any combination of avocado and lime to salsa or hot sauce for a perfectly customizable taste.

Find more ways to add mushrooms to the menu at mushroomcouncil.com.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Sheet Pan Mushroom Fajitas

Total time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 fajitas

• 2          large portobello mushroom caps, sliced into 1/4-inch strips
• 2          medium yellow onions, sliced into 1/4-inch strips
• 2          large red bell peppers, sliced into 1/4-inch strips
• 2          tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 1/4    teaspoons taco seasoning
• 6          flour tortillas (6 inches), warmed
• 1/4       cup roughly chopped cilantro
• avocado (optional)
• salsa (optional)
• hot sauce (optional)
• lime (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Line large 18-by-13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In large bowl, toss mushrooms, onions and peppers with oil and taco seasoning. Distribute on baking sheet. Roast 25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until veggies are fork tender and edges are slightly browned.
3. Serve with warmed tortillas and garnish with cilantro. Top with avocado, salsa, hot sauce or lime, if desired.

Source:  Mushroom Council

(Family Features) Cook once, eat twice. It’s a kitchen practice as simple as it sounds. Cook a base dish that can be enjoyed today and used for an entirely different meal tomorrow. For example, bake some fish for tonight’s dinner, and enjoy fish tacos for tomorrow’s lunch.

With so many Americans preparing meals at home, the practice of cooking once and eating twice can extend your grocery budget while also making meal planning less stressful and more comforting.

Cooking meals that feed the entire family is essential and even better if they give you a jump on a second meal. Whether your love for cooking runs deep or is being newly discovered, keep the following in mind when planning to cook once and eat twice:

Stock up on staples. Before heading out to the store, develop a list of ingredients that can be used for multiple dishes. Canned goods, such as black beans and corn, are great items to store in the pantry and have on hand for a variety of favorite family recipes. Other basics like corn tortillas can be used in multiple ways, such as tacos, casseroles and even salads.

Don’t forget produce. To increase flavor and nutrition, adding produce is key in your planning. Mushrooms are a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike for many reasons. Traditionally known for their inherent umami flavor, mushrooms are filling, healthy and versatile. Crimini and portabella are excellent sources of selenium, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage that may lead to serious chronic diseases. For example, four crimini mushrooms provide 38% of your daily recommended value. Also, the variety of mushrooms contain essential vitamins and nutrients, such as vitamins B and D and riboflavin.

Make meat go further. A three-step cooking technique called “The Blend” combines finely chopped mushrooms with ground meat to create dishes that are more nutritious while still tasting delicious. You can use the process to create multiple dishes such as tacos, pasta sauce and burgers. Mushrooms’ ability to mimic the texture of meat makes them easy to incorporate, and the addition of finely chopped mushrooms to meat dishes stretches portions, allowing the family to enjoy a meat-mushroom base two days in a row in two different ways in dishes like Mexican Lasagna and Blended Tacos, both of which include a Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend.

For more simple and delicious recipes, visit MushroomCouncil.com

Blended Tacos

Makes: 8 tacos

• 1          cup sour cream
• 6          tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• 2          tablespoons lime juice
• 8          yellow corn tortillas
• 2          cups Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend
• diced avocado (optional)
• shredded lettuce (optional)
• shredded cheese (optional)
• salsa (optional)

1. In small bowl, mix sour cream, cilantro and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate.
2. Warm tortillas in microwave or on stovetop according to package directions. Spoon 1/4 cup Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend into each tortilla. Top with sour cream mixture and avocado, lettuce and cheese as desired.

Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend

Makes: 8 cups

• 1          medium yellow onion
• 8          ounces fresh button or crimini mushrooms
• 1          pound lean ground beef
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 2          cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained
• 1          package (1 ounce) reduced-sodium taco seasoning mix
• 1          can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1          can (11 ounces) yellow kernel corn, drained

1. In food processor, pulse onion and mushrooms to coarse texture. Set aside.
2. In large frying pan, brown ground beef. Drain fat. Set aside.
3. In same frying pan, heat oil. Add mushroom mixture and saute 3-4 minutes, or until most moisture has been released. Add black beans and mix.
4. Add beef, taco seasoning, tomatoes and corn to black bean and mushroom blend. Mix and cook until heated through.

Mexican Lasagna

Servings: 6-8

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 16        yellow corn tortillas
• 6          cups Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend
• 1          cup shredded, low-fat Mexican cheese blend
• sour cream (optional)
• chopped cilantro (optional)
• salsa (optional)

1. Heat oven to 350° F. Spray bottom of 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place four corn tortillas on bottom of dish and layer 2 cups Mexican Mushroom-Beef Blend on top. Repeat layers, ending with tortillas as top layer. Top with cheese.
2. Bake uncovered 25 minutes, or until cheese melts and lasagna is heated through. Top with dollops of sour cream, cilantro and salsa as desired.

Source: Mushroom Council

(Family Features) If you are raising picky eaters, there's a cooking technique that makes some of kids' favorite foods - like burgers and nachos - more nutritious while still tasting delicious.

Mushrooms, with their inherent umami flavor, are a perfect addition to blend into meals to increase both flavor and nutrition. Chefs kicked off the trend by blending finely chopped mushrooms with meat for burgers that are flavorful, healthy and Earth-friendly, and now blended burgers are showing up in school cafeterias, supermarket meat counters and fast food drive-thrus.

"Blended entrees like burgers are a win-win-win for families wanting to eat better," said Dayle Hayes, registered dietitian and founder of School Meals That Rock. "Mushrooms add delicious umami flavor, reduce fat and sodium in many popular dishes and kids love them."

Another fan of blending is MasterChef Junior finalist and teen chef, Evan Robinson. Robinson likes to blend with multiple varieties of mushrooms in family favorites such as tacos, burgers and stuffed peppers.

"I find that blending mushrooms into some of my go-to recipes helps increase the flavor while reducing the amount of fat and sodium," Robinson said.

If you're ready to start blending at home, it can be a simple process for introducing foods to even the pickiest of eaters. Recruit kids as kitchen helpers to tackle tasks such as wiping mushrooms clean and using their hands to blend the meat and mushrooms together.

For more family-friendly, blended recipes, visit Blenditarian.com

A Cooking Technique You Need to Know: Blending

Blending involves mixing finely chopped mushrooms with ground meat for more nutritious, but still delicious, burgers, tacos, meatballs and more.

1. Chop your favorite mushroom variety to match the consistency of the ground meat. This can be done with a knife or food processor.

2. Blend the chopped mushrooms with the ground meat.

3. Cook with Mexican seasoning mix for tacos, marinara sauce for meaty ragu or salt and pepper for juicy, flavorful burgers.

Blended Mushroom Nachos

Recipe courtesy of Chef Evan Robinson
Servings: 4

• 5 shiitake mushrooms
• 5 white button mushrooms
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1 tablespoon Mexican meat seasoning
• 10 ounces ground turkey

Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 1/4 cups Mexican blend shredded cheese

• tortilla chips
• salsa (optional)
• guacamole (optional)
• kale (optional)
• romaine lettuce (optional)
• tomatoes (optional)
• cilantro (optional)
• diced red bell peppers (optional)

1. In blender or food processor, pulse mushrooms, garlic and onions. In large saute pan over medium-high heat, mix finely chopped mushroom mixture with seasoning and cook 2 minutes. Add ground turkey, breaking into fine crumbles until completely cooked through. Set aside.
2. To make cheese sauce: In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter then add flour and whisk constantly, breaking up lumps. Stir 2 minutes then add milk and continuously whisk. Stir in cheese and mix with wooden spoon.
3. Assemble chips on serving platter; spread mushroom-meat crumble on top. Add cheese sauce and toppings like salsa, guacamole, kale, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro and diced red bell peppers, if desired.

Pizza Burgers

Recipe courtesy of Chef Evan Robinson
Servings: 4

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium portabella mushroom, finely chopped
• 2-3 white button mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1/2 small onion
• 1/2 clove garlic
• 2 teaspoons Italian-style herb seasoning
• 8 ounces ground beef
• salt, to taste
• pizza or marinara sauce
• shredded mozzarella cheese
• hamburger buns

1. In large pan over medium-high heat, saute extra-virgin olive oil, mushrooms, onions, garlic and herb seasoning approximately 5 minutes until vegetables are soft. Set aside and let cool to room temperature.
2. Blend mushroom mixture with ground beef. Season with salt, to taste.
3. Form into four patties and cook in same pan as mushroom mixture to preferred doneness. Top with dollop pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese. Cover pan to melt cheese then carefully transfer to buns.

Source: Mushroom Council