As families spend more time at home, Americans are finding comfort in recipes made using bread. In addition to the comforting flavor, this trend provides valuable nutritional benefits. As a part of many healthy eating plans, bread and pasta are nutritionist approved and provide nutrients needed for healthy aging such as B vitamins, magnesium, selenium, iron, folate and fiber.

Try this tasty recipe for Apple Cheese Dijon Delight, which is not only packed with grains but is also under 500 calories. Find more recipe ideas at GrainFoodsFoundation.org.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Apple Cheese Dijon Delight

Prep time: 15 minutes
Yield: 1 sandwich

• 2          teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2          slices honey oatmeal bread
• 6          thin slices Granny Smith apple
• 2          slices Brie cheese
• 2          slices cheddar cheese
• 4          slices deli turkey
• nonstick cooking spray

1. Spread Dijon mustard on one bread slice.
2. Layer apple slices, Brie cheese slices, cheddar cheese slices and turkey slices.
3. Spray panini press or grill with nonstick cooking spray. Add sandwich and grill each side 2-3 minutes.

Source:  Grain Foods Foundation

(Family Features) When most families think of holiday cooking, they typically picture baked goods and time spent in the kitchen near the oven. This year, you can take your seasonal meal prep outdoors with cooking methods often overlooked during the winter: grilling and smoking.

As one of the most popular dishes during the holidays, turkey is an easy way start creating festive flavors using a grill or smoker. To help keep your bird tasty and juicy, this Art of the Turkey Brine requires just a few simple ingredients before transferring the turkey to the grill. Pair it with this Sweet ’n’ Savory Sausage and Cornbread Stuffing that combines a soft, familiar interior with crispy edges.

If you’re aiming to create dishes like these in your own backyard this season, head to a destination like Ace Hardware for all your grilling essentials and holiday inspiration. With 72% of U.S. households located within 15 minutes of an Ace store and products from Big Green Egg, Traeger and Weber all under one roof, it’s a helpful place to take your holiday meals to the next level.

Find more ideas to change the way you think about holiday cooking at acehardware.com.

Art of the Turkey Brine

Recipe courtesy of chef Jason K. Morse of 5280 Culinary and Ace Hardware
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: About 2 hours; allow 2-3 hours to cool
Servings: 6-8

• 1/3       package 5280 Culinary Brine mix
• 2          quarts water, plus additional for cooling and covering turkey, divided
• ice
• 6-8       pounds turkey breast with rib cage, cleaned
• 1          5-gallon Ace Hardware bucket and lid

1. In pan, mix brine with water. Heat to high 5 minutes to dissolve sugar and salt.
2. Cool brine mixture; add ice water and mix well.
3. Place turkey in bucket and cover with water and brine. Place bucket in refrigerator or cooler.
4. Brine 45 minutes per pound.
5. Remove turkey from brine.
6. Heat wood fire grill to 350° F.
7. Cook turkey 20 minutes then turn temperature to 275° F. Cook 1 hour, 40 minutes until internal temperature reaches 170° F.
8. Allow turkey to rest about 15 minutes prior to carving to allow juices to settle.

Sweet ’n’ Savory Sausage and Cornbread Stuffing

Recipe courtesy of chef Jason K. Morse of 5280 Culinary and Ace Hardware
Prep time: 15 minutes, plus 1 day for drying
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 10-12

• 1          package cornbread
• 1          pound sweet Italian sausage, ground
• 1/2       cup carrots, peeled and diced
• 1/2       cup celery with leaves, diced
• 1/2       cup yellow onion, peeled and diced
• 1/4       cup dried blueberries
• 1/2       cup dried apples
• 1          teaspoon fresh garlic, crushed
• barbecue rub
• 1-2       cups low-sodium chicken stock
• nonstick cooking spray

1. Cook cornbread according to package instructions; allow to cool. Leave uncovered and let dry 1 day. Break into medium pieces.
2. Heat wood fire grill to 350° F.
3. Heat medium skillet and add sausage. Cook until half done and fat is rendered.
4. Add carrots, celery, onion, blueberries, apples and garlic. Saute until caramelized. Add cornbread pieces and stir to combine. Add chicken stock until slightly wet or pasty; stir well to combine.
5. Season, to taste, with barbecue rub and transfer stuffing from skillet to pan lightly sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.
6. Grill, uncovered, 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 155° F when fully cooked.

Source: Ace Hardware

(Family Features)Leading a busy lifestyle doesn’t always leave time for spending hours in the kitchen, and these Mystic Mini Turkey Loaves can be made in advance and frozen for later use. Perfect for simplifying busy evenings, they are made with mushrooms, yellow onions, oat milk, pumpkin pie spice and almond milk yogurt. This and other kid-friendly recipes are part of Dole’s healthy-living alliance with Disney’s Frozen 2.

For more details and recipes, visit dole.com/Disney. #Dole #DoleRecipes

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Mystic Mini Turkey Loaves

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Serves: 8

• 1          large egg
• 2          pounds 93% lean ground turkey
• 1          medium DOLE® Yellow Onion, finely chopped
• 1/2       cup oat milk
• 1/2       cup whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs
• 2          teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1          teaspoon salt, divided
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2       package (8 ounces) Dole Mushrooms, sliced
• 2          cups unsalted chicken stock
• 3          tablespoons whole-wheat flour
• 1/4       cup plain almond milk yogurt
• 1/4       teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1          tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

1. Heat oven to 350° F. Line rimmed baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In large bowl, whisk egg; gently mix in turkey, onion, oat milk, breadcrumbs, pumpkin pie spice and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Form turkey mixture into eight (4-by-2 1/2-inch) loaves; place on prepared pan. Bake loaves 40 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165° F.
3. In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil; add mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally. In medium bowl, whisk chicken stock and flour; add to skillet and cook 3 minutes, or until thickened, whisking occasionally. Whisk in yogurt, pepper and remaining salt.
4. Serve loaves topped with gravy and sprinkled with parsley. 

Tip: To freeze loaves, prepare turkey loaves but do not bake; freeze 2 hours, or until frozen. Wrap loaves tightly with plastic wrap and freeze in freezer-safe, zip-top plastic bags up to 3 months. Thaw loaves in refrigerator overnight then bake on parchment-lined rimmed baking pan at 350° F 40 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165° F. Proceed with remaining instructions.

Approximate nutritional information per serving (1 loaf, 1/3 cup gravy): 216 calories; 94 calories from fat; 10 g fat; 3 g polyunsaturated fat; 4 g monounsaturated fat; 88 mg cholesterol; 397 mg sodium; 344 mg potassium; 11 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 2 g sugars; 21 g protein; vitamin A 4%; vitamin C 2%; calcium 4%; iron 10%; vitamin E 2%; thiamin 8%; vitamin B6 20%; phosphorus 15%; magnesium 6%; manganese 10%.

Source:  Dole/Disney

Kid-friendly, make-ahead meals

(Family Features) As families look to incorporate more nutritious dishes into meals from morning to night, using kid-friendly recipes can help make the process easier and more fun.
To help make it easier for busy parents to plan and serve healthier meals, registered dietitian Melanie Marcus, Dole’s nutrition and health communications manager, created a series of enchanted frozen fruit- and vegetable-based dishes including main courses, smoothies, desserts, sides and more. Because these recipes can be made in advance and frozen for later use, they’re perfect for on-the-go families and busy lifestyles.

For example, these frozen sandwiches make for an easy grab-and-go breakfast while make-ahead lasagna simplifies busy evenings and banana split cups can appease those dessert cravings.

These and other family-friendly recipes are part of Dole’s healthy-living alliance with Disney’s Frozen 2.  For details, visit dole.com/Disney. Follow Dole at #Dole and #DoleRecipes.

Royal Frozen Sweet Potato Lasagna

Prep time: 45 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Servings: 8

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1          medium DOLE® White Onion, chopped
• 1          package (8 ounces) Dole Mushrooms, sliced
• 2          garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2    pounds 99% fat-free lean ground turkey
• 5          cups Dole Baby Spinach
• 1          teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1          cup marinara sauce
• 1          cup raw cashews
• 2          cups fat-free cottage cheese, strained
• 4          medium Dole Sweet Potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick crosswise
• 1       cup low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese

1. Heat oven to 375° F. Spray 13-by-9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil; add onion and cook 5 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add mushrooms; cook 4 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Add turkey; cook 8 minutes, or until browned, breaking up turkey with side of wooden spoon. Add spinach, Italian seasoning and salt; cook 3 minutes, or until spinach wilts. Stir in marinara; cook 1 minute.
3. In food processor, pulse cashews 20 times, or until small crumbs form. In medium bowl, stir cottage cheese and cashews.
4. Shingle 1/3 of sweet potato slices in bottom of prepared dish; top with 1 cup cottage cheese mixture followed by 1 1/2 cups turkey mixture. Repeat layers twice; sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and cover tightly with foil. Bake 45 minutes; remove foil. Bake 20 minutes, or until top is golden brown.

Tip: To freeze lasagna, wrap tightly once cooled with layer of plastic wrap then foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Remove plastic wrap; bake lasagna from frozen, covered with foil, at 375° F 1 hour. Uncover and bake 15 minutes, or until top is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165° F.

Approximate nutritional information per serving (1 1/2 cups): 315 calories; 110 calories from fat; 12 g fat; 0 g trans fat; 2 g polyunsaturated fat; 6 g monounsaturated fat; 45 mg cholesterol; 570 mg sodium; 661 mg potassium; 22 g carbohydrates; 3 g fiber; 9 g sugars; 29 g protein; vitamin A 50%; vitamin C 10%; calcium 20%; iron 15%; vitamin E 10%; thiamin 8%; vitamin B6 15%; phosphorus 10%; magnesium 8%; manganese 20%.

Frozen Banana Split Cups

Prep time: 15 minutes, plus freezing time
Servings: 12

• 2/3       cup gluten-free dark chocolate chips
• 2          teaspoons grapeseed oil
• 3          DOLE® Strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced
• 1          ripe Dole Banana, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons chopped roasted unsalted peanuts

1. Line 12-cup mini muffin tin with mini cupcake liners.
2. In small, microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips in microwave oven on high 1 minute, or until melted, stirring every 20 seconds; stir in oil.
3. Fill cupcake liners with half of chocolate mixture; top with strawberries, banana, remaining chocolate mixture and peanuts.
4. Freeze in airtight container at least 1 hour, or up to 2 weeks.

Approximate nutritional information per serving (1 cup): 92 calories; 65 calories from fat; 7 g fat; 0 g trans fat; 1 g polyunsaturated fat; 1 g monounsaturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 0 mg sodium; 54 mg potassium; 10 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 6 g sugars; 2 g protein; vitamin A 0%; vitamin C 2%; calcium 0%; iron 15%; vitamin E 2%; thiamin 0%; vitamin B6 2%; phosphorus 0%; magnesium 2%; manganese 4%.

Make-Ahead Frozen Brrr-eakfast Bites

Prep time: 15 minutes, plus cooling time
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 8          eggs
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1          package (8 ounces) DOLE® Mushrooms, sliced
• 1          Dole Red Onion, chopped
• 1          medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 4          cups Dole Baby Spinach
• 1          cup fat-free milk
• 1/4       teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2       teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 8          100% whole-grain English muffins, split
• 8          frozen chicken breakfast sausage patties

1. Heat oven to 375° F. Spray 13-by-9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In large bowl, whisk eggs. In large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add mushrooms, onion and bell pepper; cook 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add spinach; cook 3 minutes, or until spinach wilts, stirring occasionally. Stir milk, salt, pepper and vegetables into eggs; transfer to prepared dish. Bake 25 minutes, or until set and internal temperature reaches 160° F; cool and cut into eight equal pieces.
3. Assemble sandwiches with muffins, sausage patties and egg mixture; wrap tightly with plastic wrap and freeze up to 2 weeks.
4. Unwrap one sandwich; wrap loosely with paper towel. Heat in microwave oven on high 2 1/2-3 minutes, or until completely heated through and internal temperature of sausage and egg mixture reaches 165° F.

Approximate nutritional information per serving (1 sandwich): 317 calories (114 calories from fat); 13 g fat; 0 g trans fat; 2 g polyunsaturated fat; 4 g monounsaturated fat; 212 mg cholesterol; 572 mg sodium; 33 g carbohydrates; 334 g potassium; 4 g fiber; 6 g sugars; 19 g protein; vitamin A 25%; vitamin C 35%; calcium 15%; iron 20%; vitamin E 8%; thiamin 25%; vitamin B6 10%; phosphorus 15%; magnesium 15%; manganese 15%.

Source: Dole/Disney

Use a pantry staple to spice up comfort food classics

(Family Features) As chilly weather sets in and days get shorter, comfort food favorites once again fill menus. While traditional flavor combinations typically hold a special place in many families’ hearts and on their plates, there is almost always room to add new and exciting flavors to tried-and-true favorites.

If you’re craving cheesy scalloped potatoes, savory stuffing or juicy braised meat, an option like California Ripe Olives are an easy addition that can spruce up your go-to dishes. Their mild and unique taste lends itself well to many different flavor pairings such as Prosciutto-Wrapped Stuffed Turkey Breast, Potatoes Au Gratin with Olives and Fennel, and Green Beans with Olive Butter.

California family farms produce 95% of the ripe olives grown in the United States. Multi-generational family farmers work with family-owned canneries to produce each can and ensure only the highest quality olives make it from the farm to your table.

For more creative ways to use olives, including family recipes from growers across California, visit CalOlive.org.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Stuffed Turkey Breast

Recipe courtesy of Karista’s Kitchen

Brine:

• 1/4       cup salt
• 1          teaspoon whole black peppercorns
• 2          bay leaves
• 2          quarts water

• 3 1/2-4       pounds turkey breast

Turkey:

• 2          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1          tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1          tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1          tablespoon orange zest
• 4          cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4-1/3       cup dried cranberries
• 3/4       cup sliced California Green Ripe Olives, divided
• 4-5       slices prosciutto

Gravy:

• 2          tablespoons butter
• 1          tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1-1 ½         cups chicken broth
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• orange slices, for garnish

1. To brine turkey breast: In large, non-reactive bowl, mix salt, peppercorns and bay leaves in water. Place turkey breast in brine and cover with additional water, if needed. Place plastic wrap over bowl and refrigerate at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. To cook turkey breast: Heat oven to 375° F.
3. Remove turkey breast from brine, rinse and pat dry. On large cutting board with sharp, sturdy knife, slice into thickest portion of turkey and cut lengthwise, but not all the way through.
4. Brush inside of turkey breast with 1 tablespoon olive oil then sprinkle with salt and pepper, to taste, rosemary, parsley and orange zest. Spread minced garlic, cranberries and 1/2 cup sliced green olives over bottom half of turkey breast then fold top over bottom.
5. Brush outside of turkey breast with remaining olive oil and place prosciutto slices over top of turkey breast. Using three pieces kitchen twine, tie turkey breast on each end and in middle.
6. On baking sheet, roast turkey 15 minutes then turn heat down to 350° F and roast 35-45 minutes. Once internal temperature reaches about 155° F, remove from oven and tent foil over top to allow it to continue cooking and stay warm. Let turkey rest about 15 minutes.
7. Once turkey is cool enough to handle, remove kitchen twine and slice. Arrange slices on platter.
8. To make gravy: Take remaining juice from baking sheet and add to saucepan over medium heat along with butter. Once butter is melted, sprinkle in flour and whisk. While whisking, add 1 cup chicken broth. If it becomes thick, add 1/2 cup chicken broth, or more, as needed. Let gravy cook several minutes, whisking constantly.
9. When gravy is done, remove from heat and drizzle over sliced turkey breast. Garnish with remaining green olives and orange slices. Serve warm.

Green Beans with Olive Butter

Recipe courtesy of Culinary Hill

• 1/4       cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 20        California Black Ripe Olives, chopped
• 2          shallots, chopped
• 2          cloves garlic, chopped
• 4          quarts, plus 1/4 cup, water, divided
• 1          tablespoon salt, plus additional, to taste
• 2          pounds green beans, trimmed
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1. In food processor, pulse butter, olives, shallots and garlic; set aside.
2. In large saucepan or stockpot, bring 4 quarts water and 1 tablespoon salt to boil.
3. Add green beans and boil until tender-crisp, but still bright green, about 3-5 minutes. Work in batches, if necessary. Drain well and immediately plunge into bowl of ice water to stop cooking. In large skillet, add remaining water over medium heat. Add blanched beans and toss until heated through.
4. Toss beans with olive butter to coat. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Transfer to serving platter.

Potatoes Au Gratin with Fennel and Olives

Recipe courtesy of Heather Likes Food

• 1          bulb fennel, washed, stalks removed and cored
• 1/2       yellow onion
• 2          large russet potatoes, washed and peeled
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1          tablespoon salted butter
• 1          cup, plus 2 tablespoons, heavy whipping cream, divided
• 1/2       California Ripe Black Ripe Olives, sliced
• 1/2       teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8       teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4       cup Gruyere cheese, grated, divided
• 3/4       cup Jarlsberg cheese, grated, divided

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. Using mandoline or handheld slicer, thinly slice fennel, onion and potatoes.
3. In medium pan, heat olive oil and butter then saute onion and fennel over medium-low heat 15 minutes, or until tender. Remove from heat.
4. In large bowl, combine sliced potatoes with 1 cup cream, olives, salt, pepper and all but 2 tablespoons of each cheese.
5. Add cooked fennel and onion to bowl and stir to combine.
6. Transfer potato mixture to 8-by-8-inch baking dish or deep pie plate and flatten surface so potatoes are mostly submerged in cream.
7. In small bowl, combine remaining cheese with remaining cream. Sprinkle cheese over top of potatoes evenly.
8. Bake 45-60 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown and bubbly. If needed, tent with foil to prevent top from becoming too brown.
9. Cool at least 15 minutes before serving.

Source: California Olive Committee

(Family Features) Getting back in the swing of the school year routine can be hectic. With the right ingredients, though, lunchtime doesn’t have to be.

Kickstart your school lunch routine with these ideas for building easy-to-make, gourmet sandwiches sure to inspire envy in the lunchroom.

Bread – The foundation for nearly every sandwich, switching up your bread from traditional slices to something more creative, such as ciabatta, rye, pita or even a dinner roll like in this Hot Honey Ham Rolls recipe, can keep things interesting at lunchtime.

Meat – The main ingredient, choosing high-quality meat can make or break your sandwich experience. Inspired by bold flavors from around the globe, Kretschmar Master’s Cuts Deli Meats are gluten-free and feature no MSG or added hormones for a taste experience you can feel good about serving your family. When pressed for time, the line of premade deli sandwiches can make for a perfect grab-and-go meal.

Toppings and Condiments – Meant to boost flavor and add texture, a variety of toppings and condiments such as lettuce, mayonnaise, peppers, mustard and tomatoes are sandwich favorites. However, less common garnishes like fried eggs, hummus and avocado take this Maple Turkey Breast, Egg, Avocado Mash and Hummus Sandwich to the next level.

Cheese – Choosing a less common cheese, like Swiss or mozzarella, can be an easy way to experiment with the flavor of your sandwiches. An option like Kretschmar’s handcrafted gourmet cheeses possesses refined textures and fine flavors perfect for lunchtime or serving as part of a platter of meats and crackers as a snack or appetizer.

Find more quick and easy recipes at kretschmardeli.com. With the See It Live Sweepstakes, fans get more than just access, but an experience, a feeling of belonging, where you can enter for a chance to win tickets for a year.

Maple Turkey Breast, Egg, Avocado Mash and Hummus Sandwich

Prep time: 8 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1/4       avocado
• 1/2       lemon, juice only
• 2          slices flaxseed bread, toasted
• 1          tablespoon hummus, any flavor
• 1          fried egg, cooked over-medium
• 3-4       slices Kretschmar Master’s Cut Maple Turkey Breast
• fresh mozzarella cheese, thick sliced
• 1/2       red bell pepper, sliced
• 1          handful baby spinach

1. In bowl, mash avocado and combine with lemon juice. Set aside.
2. Spread one bread slice with hummus and second with avocado mash.
3. Add fried egg, maple turkey breast, mozzarella, red bell pepper and spinach.
4. Stack and cut in half.

Hot Honey Ham Rolls

Prep time: 3 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12

Topping:

• 1/4       cup honey
• 2          tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1          tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 8          tablespoons salted butter, melted

Rolls:

• 12        premade rolls
• 12        thick-cut slices Kretschmar Master’s Cut Hot Honey Ham
• 12        slices Kretschmar Swiss Cheese

1. To make topping: In small saucepan over medium heat, whisk honey, Dijon mustard, parsley and melted butter. Bring to simmer and remove from heat.
2. To make rolls: Heat oven to broil.
3. Split rolls in half and place on baking sheet cut-side up. Brush cut sides with honey butter. Place two halved hot honey ham pieces on bottom of each roll and top each with Swiss cheese slice.
4. Broil until cheese is melted, 1-2 minutes. Carefully remove from oven and pour on remaining honey butter. Place tops on rolls and serve.

Source: Kretschmar

(Family Features) Save time and serve up better-for-you lunches, snacks, desserts and after-school energy boosts with these simple and affordable recipes.

By packing quick and easy lunches, you can have your kids set for each busy day without sacrificing time together. Shopping for your grade-A, back-to-school essentials at a store like ALDI means you’ll use quality ingredients to prepare fun, better-for-you lunchboxes and more.

Consider these eight recipe ideas to pack a better lunchbox. Get schooled in savings and check out aldi.us to find more back-to-school inspiration.

1. Secret Veggie Turkey Nuggets – Sneak those all-important veggies into your child’s lunch with these baked nuggets that combine ground turkey, cauliflower, zucchini and onions. Add a favorite dipping sauce to the lunchbox for a tasty, nutritious midday meal.

2. Bento Box Lunch – If your child is adventurous when it comes to flavors, combine a turkey sandwich roll, quinoa salad, broccoli salad and cinnamon apples in this full-flavored bento box.

3. Fruit Leather Wraps – Snack time doesn’t have to mean candy and other unhealthy options. Instead, provide a sweet treat that’s all-natural with blueberries and raspberries in these fruity wraps that are both guilt- and gluten-free.

4. Tropical Granola Bar – One of the most versatile snacks to enjoy nearly any time of day: granola bars. This homemade version combines dried fruit with pumpkin flax and quick oats for a sweet, nutritious treat.

5. Peanut Butter Granola Bites – Make dessert a more nutritious venture with the classic combination of peanut butter, fruit and honey. These small bites of savory flavor can be ready in just 12 minutes for a nighttime snack the whole family can share.

6. Strawberry Yogurt Bars – The nutritious combination of oats and strawberries makes for a tasty treat. This kid-friendly recipe is an easy option to make ahead and serve anytime.

7. Tropical Superfruit Smoothie – It only takes six natural ingredients and five minutes to make a supercharged after-school snack.

8. Carrot Pineapple Smoothie – Before diving into the evening’s homework assignments, help your little learner refuel with fruits and veggies in this creamy smoothie.

Source: ALDI

(Family Features) Packing and prepping wholesome lunches doesn't have to be a chore. You can kick health into high gear this school year with new ideas to make creative, nutrient-rich meals.

Fit to satisfy various dietary restrictions, the Power Your Lunchbox program offers kid-friendly options and allergy-sensitive selections. The program, which is dedicated to helping families make healthier lunches during the school year, features more than 80 registered dietitian-approved, family-tested meal ideas with produce as a focal point.

Consider skipping the typical sandwich, chips and apple. Instead, it only takes a few minutes to embark on a creative approach to lunch. Get the kids involved by having them use small cookie cutters to make fresh fruits and vegetables into fun shapes. Try complementing the produce with wraps or soups to add extra excitement to typical lunchbox fare.

Regardless if your child is a picky eater or is on the more adventurous side, bento box lunches such as Chinese Mandarin Pasta Salad Bento Box and Turkey Taco Salad Bento Box can prove to be satisfying, power-packed meals.

For more lunchbox inspiration, visit poweryourlunchbox.com.

Chinese Mandarin Pasta Salad Bento Box

Prep time: 20 minutes
Servings: 1

• 16 ounces rotini pasta
• 6 mini sweet peppers, sliced
• 3 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup matchstick carrots
• 1/2 cup sesame ginger dressing
• 1/4 cup chow mein noodles
• 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup steamed edamame

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cool water.
2. In large bowl, mix pasta, peppers, oranges, green onions, spinach, carrots and dressing. Toss to coat well. Top with chow mein noodles.
3. Place in lunchbox with kiwi and edamame.

Turkey Taco Salad Bento Box

Prep time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/4 cup cooked turkey meat, seasoned with taco seasoning
• 2 tablespoons shredded cheese
• 4 cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 2 tablespoons guacamole
• 1 ounce tortilla chips

1. Assemble taco salad with lettuce, taco meat, cheese and tomatoes.
2. Place in lunchbox with guacamole and chips.

Source: Produce for Kids

(Family Features) Summer means it’s time to stock up on fresh produce and light the grill for a season of outdoor gatherings with friends and family. Make entertaining easier with flavorful options that can make menu-planning a breeze all summer long.

A nutritious and versatile ingredient, American Pecans can be your secret weapon for a variety of entertaining occasions. Add one bag of pecans to your shopping list and transform standby recipes into wholesome and delicious meals and snacks for the whole crowd.

Enjoy the long summer nights on the back porch with a Spiced Pecan Grilled Peach Salad, packed with the essential flavors and textures of summertime. Or serve up Pecan-Crusted Asian Turkey Meatball Lettuce Wraps, a light and delicious appetizer or easy entree to keep guests satisfied.

Discover more summertime entertaining recipes and cooking tips at AmericanPecan.com.

Spiced Pecan Grilled Peach Salad with Goat Cheese

Spiced Pecans:

• 1 egg white
• 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups pecan halves

Salad:

• 1/4 cup, plus 2 teaspoons, extra-virgin olive oil or pecan oil, divided
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 large peaches, halved and pitted
• 6 cups mixed baby greens
• 4 ounces soft goat cheese

1. To make spiced pecans: Heat oven to 275° F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In bowl, whisk egg white, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper and salt until well combined. Fold in pecans and mix until evenly coated. Spread in single layer on baking sheet.
3. Bake 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally until pecans are fragrant and golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
4. To make salad: In bowl, whisk 1/4 cup olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Set aside.
5. Brush cut sides of peach halves with remaining olive oil; grill until grill lines appear and peaches become tender, about 3-5 minutes. Remove peaches and slice.
6. Divide greens among four plates. Top with grilled peach slices and goat cheese. Divide 1 cup spiced pecans evenly among salads and reserve remaining for snack. Top each salad with drizzle of vinaigrette.

Pecan-Crusted Asian Turkey Meatball Lettuce Wraps

Meatballs:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey thigh
• 1/3 cup chopped green onions (about 2 stalks)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon powdered ginger
• 1 cup fresh pecans

Sauce:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 head butter lettuce leaves
• 1/2 cup matchstick carrots
• chopped scallions (optional)
• cilantro leaves (optional)

1. Heat oven to 375° F.
2. To make meatballs: Using hands, combine ground turkey, green onions, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, garlic and powdered ginger.
3. In food processor, pulse pecans until coarsely ground to similar consistency as panko bread crumbs.
4. Scoop 1 tablespoon meat mixture at a time and roll into meatballs. Roll meatballs in ground pecans until evenly coated.
5. Place pecan-crusted meatballs on parchment-lined baking sheet; bake approximately 20 minutes. Flip after 15 minutes.
6. To make sauce: In small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, fish sauce and sesame oil. Stir until sauce thickens, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
7. Sprinkle lettuce cups with shredded carrots. Place meatballs on top and drizzle with sauce. Garnish with scallions and cilantro, if desired.

Source: American Pecan Council

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ham and Turkey Roll-ups

Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2

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

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

Deli Ham Breakfast All Day Tacos

Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

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

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

Source: Eckrich