Pasta with Swiss Chard Walnut Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes

Beans & Grains, Dietary, Egg Free, Gluten Free, MAIN DISHES, Pasta, PREP, Quick & Easy, Recipes, Vegetarian, Vegetarian
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Swiss chard walnut pesto and roasted tomatoes is the perfect heart healthy topping to your favorite pasta.

Pasta with Swiss Chard Walnut Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenMonday night was always pasta night at my house growing up. (and sometimes Sunday too, if we were going to Grandma’s!). Over the years our traditional pasta dinner has transformed into healthier variations. I like to give myself some credit for these changes (hello, dietitian in the family!), by introducing some healthy twists to pasta night.
Pasta with Swiss Chard Walnut Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenRevamp your pasta dish with starting with the pasta itself. Switch it up to add more variety, but also a boost in nutrition. Try whole wheat pasta for more fiber or a plant based pasta like Banza (chickpea pasta) or black bean pasta for an extra boost of fiber & protein.
I used Banza pasta for this recipe because I love the rotini shape. Banza packs in 13 grams of fiber and 25 grams of protein per 3.5 ounce serving. It’s like built in portion control because it’s so filling!
Pasta with Swiss Chard Walnut Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

Swiss chard walnut pesto & roasted tomatoes is the perfect heart healthy topping to your favorite pasta

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Skip the heavy cream sauces and try a pesto as a heart healthy pasta topping. The ingredients in this Swiss chard walnut pesto recipe contains heart healthy benefits including:

  • Swiss chard contains Vitamin E which has shown anti-inflammatory effects and helps protect tissue from oxidation damage. Eating foods with plenty of vitamin E might also reduce the chances of developing coronary artery disease, which can lead to a heart attack or heart failure.
  • While most nuts contain monounsaturated fats, only walnuts are comprised primarily of polyunsaturated fat (13 grams out of 18 grams total fat). Polyunsaturated fats can help reduce bad cholesterol levels in your blood which can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. They also provide nutrients to help develop and maintain your body’s cells.
  • Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats. Studies show that eating foods rich in monounsaturated fatty acids improves blood cholesterol levels, which can decrease your risk of heart disease.

Pasta with Swiss Chard Walnut Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenRethink your pasta night by trying this pesto! This recipe does make more pesto needed for the amount of pasta. To save leftovers, store in a sealed container in the refrigerator, or freeze in an ice cube tray for later use.

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Pasta with Swiss Chard Walnut Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Yield: 6
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Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups Swiss chard, stems removed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted walnuts
  • 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons garlic
  • 1 lemon, juice and zested
  • 3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 box pasta (I used Banza)
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Prepare an ice water bath and a colander. Blanch the Swiss chard in the boiling water until tender, about 2 minutes. Shock immediately in the ice water. Drain by squeezing the leaves in a ball in a clean kitchen cloth.
  2. In a food processor, add the cooked Swiss chard, walnuts, parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and 3/4 cup olive oil. Pulse until the mixture breaks down. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook pasta according to package directions.
  4. In a large saute pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the grape tomatoes and saute about 5 minutes until tomatoes begin to burst. Add the 2 cups of the Swiss chard walnut pesto (there will be some leftover) and heat through. Toss with the cooked pasta.
  5. Top with additional parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

*Makes about 3 cups of pesto. Reserve leftovers in the refrigerator for about a week or freeze into an ice cube tray for later use.

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Pasta with Swiss Chard Walnut Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

Citrus Beet Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing

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Add a pop of color and fresh flavors with this Citrus Beet Salad with a Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing.
Citrus Beet Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenOne summer in high school, I worked for this catering company and they had this citrus salad on the menu that majority of customers ordered. One busy weekend, there a bunch of catering events scheduled and I was working the prep station, segmenting hundreds of citrus. I became pretty speedy at the process. By segmenting citrus away from the connective membrane makes it more tender and visually appealing, especially for a salad.
Citrus Beet Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenBeets have a very distinct earthy flavor. By adding something acidic, like citrus fruit, it offsets it by giving the beets a sweeter note.
Beets contain two important nutrients that can help lower blood pressure: potassium and nitrate. Potassium works with sodium to maintain the volume of blood in circulation steady. More sodium in the body means more water, more blood volume and higher blood pressure. Consuming more potassium helps flush sodium out of our system, lowering blood pressure.
Citrus Beet Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

Add bright colors and flavors to a salad with this Citrus Beet Salad with Champagne Vinairgrette Dressing #rdchat

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I just love the bright colors the ingredients in this salad bring. More colors, more nutrients!
Citrus Beet Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

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Citrus Beet Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing on a white platter

Citrus Beet Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette Dressing

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Yield: 4
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Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 beets, greens and stems removed
  • 1 grapefruit, cut into segments
  • 1 orange, cut into segments, reserving 1 tablespoon of juice and the zest
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon champagne vinegar
  • 1/2 tablespoon honey
  • pinch of salt and pepper
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Scrub beets clean under cold water. Wrap each beet in tin foil. Place on a baking sheet; bake until beets are slightly soft to the touch, 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on their size. Cool beets in packets, then rub off skins (use a paring knife for tough spots). Quarter each beet.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, champagne vinegar, honey, orange juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the beets and arugula. Drizzle half the vinaigrette over the beet arugula mixture and toss to combine.
  4. Top with grapefruit segments, orange segments, and walnuts. Drizzle the remaining vinaigrette on top. Garnish with orange zest.

Notes

Time-saving tip: Use Love Beets (See Supermarket RD’s Picks), which are already cooked and steamed.

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Raspberry Lime Chia Jam

Dairy Free, Dietary, Dips, Sauces & Spreads, Egg Free, Gluten Free, Nut Free, Recipes, Vegan, Vegetarian
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Skip the jarred stuff and make your own sweet and tangy Raspberry Lime Chia Jam. It’s great to spread on toast, stir in yogurt, or top on waffles in place of syrup.
Raspberry Lime Chia Jam via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenIt’s peanut butter jelly raspberry lime chia jam time! Maybe we should stick to the original phrase, but I definitely encourage you to think outside the box and try this raspberry lime chia jam. It has a sweet and tangy flavor your tastebuds will love, plus an extra boost of fiber from the chia seeds.
Raspberry Lime Chia Jam via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

Spread on toast, stir in yogurt, or top on waffles. This sweet & tangy Raspberry Lime Chia Jam will wow your tastesbuds

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Raspberry Lime Chia Jam via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenI was at the diner with my friends and I ordered my favorite omelette with mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, and feta cheese with rye toast (dry) on the side. Along with my toast came the selection of jellies, jams, and marmalades which brought up the question – what’s the difference between each of them?
Jam – Jam is made of crushed fruits that are then cooked with sugar, pectin, and acid until the fruits reach a spreadable consistency. Jam has an organic shape to it, and often has chunks of fruit in it, which also can contain seeds if they fruit has them. In addition to being a spread, jams are also good for fillings.
Jelly – The fruit contained in the form of jelly is the fruit’s juice. The fruit is crushed and cooked so the juice can be extracted. It is more gelatinous and easier to spread. It’s main ingredients are fruit juice, pectin, an acid, and sugar. Jellies can also be made from ingredients other than fruit, such as herbs, tea, wine, liqueurs, flowers, and vegetables.
Marmalade – The word marmalade is french, meaning “citrus preserves”. Marmalades are cooked with the fruit’s peel and pulp for a long time, and traditionally do not use pectin. Marmalades are usually made with citrus fruits, like oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruits, and are often used as spreads or glazes.
Raspberry Lime Chia Jam via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenA homemade jam like this can be a great addition to sweeten up meals/snacks with wholesome fruit and to help trim back on added sugars.
– Opt for plain yogurt, instead of flavored yogurt, and add a tablespoon of jam to sweeten it up
– Warm up a tablespoon of jam and drizzle over pancakes or waffles in place of syrup
– Opt for plain oatmeal and stir in a tablespoon of jam
– Simply spread jam on a piece of whole wheat toast
Raspberry Lime Chia Jam via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

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raspberry lime chia jam on rye bread

Raspberry Lime Chia Jam

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Cook Time: 8 mins
  • Total Time: 8 mins
  • Yield: 16 1x
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Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups raspberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 limes, juiced and zested
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • (optional) 1 tablespoon coconut sugar

Instructions

  1. In a small pot combine the raspberries, lime juice, and coconut sugar (if using). Cook over low heat until the raspberries start to break down, stirring occasionally.
  2. With the back of a wooden spoon, mash the raspberries. Add the chia seeds and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the jam begins to thicken.
  3. Remove from heat. Stir in the zest.
  4. Let cool and spread on toast, stir in oatmeal, or top on waffles/pancakes.
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Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie

Dairy Free, Drinks & Smoothies, Egg Free, Gluten Free, MAIN DISHES, Quick & Easy, Recipes, Vegan, Vegetarian
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Add a boost of flavor and nutrition with a Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie.
Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenBy posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by the Wild Blueberry Association of North America and I am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.
It dropped to 2 degrees here in NJ this past weekend.. BRRR. Simple tasks like running errands was brutal in the cold. I kept envisioning a getaway to a warm tropical island.
Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenSadly, there were no tropical island trips planned in the near future, so I had to improvise. Instead I created a tropical wild blueberry smoothie.
You may think I’m contradicting myself for wanting to get away to a warm place and then make a cold smoothie, but smoothies are a staple in my kitchen year round, no matter what the temperature is. Why? Because smoothies are so easy to pack in a ton of nutrition with a variety of healthy foods coming from all food groups.
Plus, smoothies are so easy to customize with various combinations, so you’ll never get bored! I always like to experiment in the kitchen with new combinations and new ingredients. One new ingredient I tried in this smoothie recipe are wild blueberries. Wild Blueberries have twice (2x) the antioxidant capacity of larger cultivated blueberries. A growing body of research shows the potential health benefits of Wild Blueberries including gut health, diabetes, cancer and brain health.
Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

Make your morning WILD with a Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie #WildYourSmoothie @WildBBerries #ad

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Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenI often find that certain fruit flavors, like blueberries, get lost when getting mixed into a smoothie because other strong fruit flavors take over.
Wild blueberries are a little extra special than your regular cultivated blueberries. Wild blueberries have a more intense flavor than regular blueberries. Wild Blueberry plants grow wild and are genetically diverse with thousands of interlocking plants spreading naturally across fields called barrens. It’s this diversity that gives Wild Blueberries their complex and delicious flavor — an extraordinary mix of tart and sweet.
Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenSmoothie Tip: Use frozen fruit when making smoothies. This will chill the smoothie plus thicken it without using ice, which can water down the flavor.
The Wild Blueberry crop (99% of it) is frozen. These potent little berries are individually quick frozen (IQF) at harvest locking in their nutrition and taste. It’s nature’s pause button.

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Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie in two short glasses

Tropical Wild Blueberry Smoothie

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Total Time: 5 mins
  • Yield: 2
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Description

#WildYourSmoothie with a tropical twist

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup frozen Wild Blueberries
  • 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 2 tablespoons flaxseed
  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (or milk of your choice)

Instructions

  1. Simply add the banana, wild blueberries, pineapple, coconut flakes, flaxseed, cottage cheese, and coconut milk in to a blender. Blend until smooth.
  2. For a thicker consistency, add ice. For a thinner consistency, add water.
  3. Top with additional wild blueberries, coconut, or pineapple.
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Thank you Kara Lydon, on behalf of the Wild Blueberry Association of North America, inviting me to participate in a smoothie recipe contest for dietitians and healthy living bloggers.
Check out all of the #RDapproved wild blueberry smoothie creations using #WildYourSmoothie.  Or you can head on over to the Wild Blueberry Association’s website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest to discover even more Wild Blueberry recipes.
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Mocha Latte

Dairy Free, Dietary, Drinks & Smoothies, Gluten Free, MAIN DISHES, Recipes, Vegan, Vegetarian
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You don’t have to get out of your pajamas and wait on line at Starbucks to enjoy lattes anymore. Learn how simple it is to make your own latte at home. This Mocha Latte tastes indulgent without breaking the bank.

Mocha Latte in a color mug with biscotti

Disclosure: I was asked to participate in the @CocoaVia #HeartMonth campaign as a member of the Healthy Aperture Blogger Network. I was compensated for my time.

I’m from New Jersey and in NJ people feel very strongly about their coffee. Dunkin vs. Starbucks. When I say people feel very strongly about their coffee, they will openly tell you why they like their choice and how you should too.

Dunkin or Starbucks?

I don’t often get coffee out, as I prefer to make it at home, but when I want to grab a quick cup of coffee I’ll stop at Dunkin. For more of the specialty drinks, like lattes, I prefer Starbucks, so you could say I’m the rare NJ coffee drinker. I don’t pick sides.

Mocha Latte in a colorful mug with a biscotti

I’m the type of morning person where coffee must be present during my morning routine. I don’t want to have to wait until I’m already out the door to get my caffeine fix. Coffee beverages, like lattes, can be part of a healthy diet. An average latte contains one full serving of dairy.

When I found this little milk frother gadget, I realized how easy it was to make lattes at home and get that perfect amount of foam like if a barista was making you a latte right in your own kitchen.

Mocha Latte with biscotti

There is just something about sipping on a warm coffee in the morning that makes me happy. Skip the chocolate syrup for a mocha latte and try using a packet of unsweetened dark chocolate CocoaVia® cocoa extract supplement, a daily cocoa extract supplement that delivers the highest concentration of cocoa flavanols, which are scientifically proven to promote a healthy heart by supporting healthy blood flow†.

Mocha Latte

Skip the coffee shop & make your own heart-healthy Mocha Latte at home with the help of @CocoaVia #heartmonth #ad
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Chocolate is a fabulous treat, but it’s not a reliable way to get sufficient quantities of cocoa flavanols. Traditional cocoa processing, which includes drying, fermenting and roasting of beans, destroys many of the flavanols naturally present in the cocoa bean. CocoaVia® supplement isolates the “good stuff” in chocolate in a convenient, versatile form, without all the calories and fat.

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Mocha Latte with biscotti

Mocha Latte

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Yield: 1
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Description

Cozy up to a delicious mocha latte that you can make right at home!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
  • 2 tablespoons hot water
  • 8 ounces low-fat milk
  • 1 packet CocoaVia® unsweetened dark chocolate packet
  • (optional) 1/4 teaspoon coconut sugar (or sweetener of your choice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare instant espresso by stirring instant espresso powder with hot water in a coffee mug.
  2. In a small pot over low-medium heat, warm the almond milk, just until tony bubbles begin to surface. Remove from heat and use an electric milk frother to create foam.
  3. Slowly pour the warmed milk over the prepared espresso using a large spoon to hold back the milk foam. Spoon as much foam as you desire on top.
  4. Stir in one CocoaVia® unsweetened dark chocolate packet and coconut sugar (if using).
  5. Serve immediately.

Notes

CocoaVia® cannot be baked or heated, as the process will destroy the cocoa flavanols; It can be poured into hot milk or other liquid

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Protein Pancakes

Breakfast & Brunch, Dietary, Gluten Free, Quick & Easy, Recipes, Vegetarian
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Pancakes made with whole grains and packed with protein, will keep you full all morning! These pancakes don’t use protein powder to boost up their protein content. Can you guess what secret ingredients add that satisfying boost?
Protein Pancakes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen
I’ve been making these protein pancakes for a few years now when I get that pancake craving. I never really liked pancakes growing up. (I was a weird kid) I think it was because I never felt satisfied. I always had them as more of a dessert, rather than breakfast.
Just by adding a few wholesome ingredients to a blender and BAM you got yourself a protein-packed pancake batter. How much easier can it get?
Protein Pancakes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen
What makes the protein content so high? Cottage cheese and egg whites! One serving of these protein pancakes contain 19 grams of protein. The cottage cheese helps thicken the pancake batter for a fluffy pancake.

Do you know the secret ingredient that packs these Protein Pancakes with protein without using protein powder? #rdchat

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Protein Pancakes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen
These pancakes have been posted way back when I first started blogging. I spruced up the pictures and tweaked the recipe a bit for improvement in both taste and nutrition.

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protein pancakes stacked with bananas and walnuts

Protein Pancakes

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Yield: 4
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Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 cup egg whites
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
  • 2 tablespoons cinnamon
  • 2 bananas

Instructions

  1. Combine rolled oats, cottage cheese, egg whites, ground flaxseed, cinnamon and banana in a blender to form a thick pancake batter like consistency. Do not over blend.
  2. Cook on a hot non-stick pan sprayed lightly with cooking spray until golden brown.
  3. Flip over until the other side is golden brown.
  4. (Optional) Top with additional banana slices, walnuts, and maple syrup.
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Protein Pancakes via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenRecipe analysis via Calorie Count

Healthy Cookie Dough Bites

Dairy Free, Dietary, Egg Free, Freezer Friendly, Gluten Free, Make ahead, PREP, Recipes, Vegan, Vegetarian
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Calling all cookie dough lovers. This recipe is for you.
Healthy Cookie Dough Bites - Calling all cookie dough lovers. This recipe is for you. Have your "cookie dough" and eat it too, with a healthy twist using chickpeas as the base.A few months ago, on a whim, I made a cookie dough dip. This was actually a simplified version of a “dessert hummus” recipe I created that was published in a cookbook I developed recipes for in a previous job.
Healthy Cookie Dough Bites - Calling all cookie dough lovers. This recipe is for you. Have your "cookie dough" and eat it too, with a healthy twist using chickpeas as the base.This past weekend, being snowed in from winter storm Jonas, there was not much else to do (in between all the shoveling) but cook and bake all day! I was going to make the cookie dough dip again, but this cake pop video popped up on my facebook and inspired me to turn the dip into bite-size treats.
Healthy Cookie Dough Bites - Calling all cookie dough lovers. This recipe is for you. Have your "cookie dough" and eat it too, with a healthy twist using chickpeas as the base.

Calling all cookie dough lovers. Have your “cookie dough” and eat it too. This recipe is for you!

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Healthy Cookie Dough Bites - Calling all cookie dough lovers. This recipe is for you. Have your "cookie dough" and eat it too, with a healthy twist using chickpeas as the base.I followed the same recipe, but in order to have them thick enough to roll in a ball and hold it’s shape I added some flour – oat flour to be exact. I’m sure any flour would work, but I find oat flour is easy to work with and makes it a great addition to add whole grains to a recipe.
Healthy Cookie Dough Bites - Calling all cookie dough lovers. This recipe is for you. Have your "cookie dough" and eat it too, with a healthy twist using chickpeas as the base.In true cake pop fashion, I added a chocolate coating. You can make them like a cake pop by simply adding a popsicle or leave them as little bite-size treats. Either way, they are perfectly portioned for a little sweet treat.
Healthy Cookie Dough Bites - Calling all cookie dough lovers. This recipe is for you. Have your "cookie dough" and eat it too, with a healthy twist using chickpeas as the base.

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Healthy Cookie Dough Bites coated with chocolate on a white plate

Healthy Cookie Dough Bites

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 25
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
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Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (15 oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoon peanut butter
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons oat flour
  • 3 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup dark chocolate
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil
  • (optional) sprinkles

Instructions

  1. In a food processor (or high powered blender) combine chickpeas, peanut butter, maple syrup, and oat flour. (if you find the batter is still too “wet” add an additional tablespoon of oat flour)
  2. Remove the mixture from the food processor into a bowl and fold in chocolate chips. Scoop about a tablespoon size of the dough into small balls and place on a plate lined with parchment paper. Leave as is, or add popsicle sticks into the balls. Put in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to harden.
  3. Meanwhile, in a microwave safe bowl, add dark chocolate and coconut oil. Stir until silky smooth.
  4. Dip each cookie dough ball into the dark chocolate and dip until fully coated. Transfer back to the plate lined with parchment paper. Top with sprinkles. Place in the refrigerator until chocolate has completely hardened.

Keywords: dessert, cookie dough, bite size, chickpeas

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Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.comHealthy Cookie Dough Bites - Calling all cookie dough lovers. This recipe is for you. Have your "cookie dough" and eat it too, with a healthy twist using chickpeas as the base.

 

 

Savory “Cheesy” Popcorn

Beans & Grains, Dairy Free, Dietary, Egg Free, Gluten Free, MAIN DISHES, Nut Free, PREP, Quick & Easy, Recipes, Snacks, Vegan, Vegetarian
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Switch up your snack routine with Savory “Cheesy” Popcorn!

Vegan cheesy popcorn in a bowl

Have you recently bought a new ingredient that is sitting in your pantry just because you really don’t know really how to use it? I bought nutritional yeast for one recipe and it’s been sitting in my pantry ever since.

Savory "Cheesy" Popcorn made with nutritional yeast

Did you know… National Popcorn Day is January 19th? I wanted to celebrate with a delicious new popcorn recipe! Popcorn is one of my favorite snacks. Many people don’t realize, but popcorn is a whole grain. The white part that puffs up is the endosperm, the flakey part is the bran, and the part that usually gets stuck in your teeth is the germ.

Popping popcorn at home is very simple. Bonus – there is the flexibility to play around with different toppings.

nutritional yeast

What is nutritional yeast?

Nutritional yeast is made from a single-celled organism, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae, which is grown on molasses and then harvested, washed, and dried with heat to kill or “deactivate” it. Because it’s inactive, it doesn’t grow like baking yeast does so it has no leavening ability. Yeasts are members of the fungi family, like mushrooms. (source)

Savory "Cheesy" Popcorn with a colorful napkin

The golden flakes of nutritional yeast have a nutty aroma and well known cheesy flavor, making it a go-to vegan substitute for Parmesan cheese. (Hence the quotes in the recipe title “cheesy”) If you like this recipe and don’t have or want to use nutritional yeast, simply swap with Parmesan cheese.


Using nutritional yeast is a great alternative for those with lactose intolerance or who are vegan. Plus, nutritional yeast is rich in Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate and Vitamin B12.

Flavor combinations

Sprinkle nutritional yeast on popcorn and call it a day, or add a few extra spices to kick it up a notch. I added salt, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika for an overall savory flavor profile.

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Savory Cheesy Popcorn in bowl

Savory “Cheesy” Popcorn

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Cook Time: 5
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8
  • Category: snack
  • Method: stove top
  • Cuisine: american
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Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
  • olive oil spray
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add a few pieces of popcorn – if the corn slowly spins in the oil then the oil is hot enough.
  2. Add remaining popcorn and cover with a lid. Once the popcorn starts popping, shake the pot gently to have the oil evenly coat the kernels.
  3. Remove from heat when the popping stops (when you can count to 3 between pops) and transfer to a large bowl.
  4. Combine the nutritional yeast, salt, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and smoked paprika in a small bowl and mix to combine.
  5. Get a large serving bowl and place half of the popcorn in it. Spray generously with olive oil then sprinkle over half of the spice mix. Add the remaining popcorn and repeat once more. Toss to coat and serve.

Keywords: popcorn, nutritional yeast, vegan, snack

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Pumpkin Pie Bites

Edamame Avocado Hummus


Vegetable Lentil Soup

Beans & Grains, Dairy Free, Dietary, Egg Free, Freezer Friendly, Gluten Free, MAIN DISHES, Make ahead, Nut Free, PREP, Recipes, Soups & Stews, Vegan, Vegetarian, Vegetarian
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Warm-up this winter with a warm bowl of Vegetable Lentil Soup. This vegan-friendly soup will be sure to help meet your daily recommendations of veggies for the day!

Vegetable Lentil Soup in a white decorative bowl

Dare I say it’s actually starting to feel like winter here in New Jersey. Usually, in December I’m beginning to make my favorite soups, but this year was just so warm. I’m hoping I’m not jinxing myself and all of a sudden we are going to get a blizzard. If so, I do have this big batch of vegetable lentil soup to warm up with!

vegetable lentil soup in a decorative white bowl

One of my favorite things at work is teaching cooking classes. A few months ago I taught a class called “Soups and Stocks”. My goal for the class was to show how making soup at home can be simple, nutritious, and delicious. The biggest complaints I heard from customers is when they tried making it at home, their soups “tasted bland, watered down, and boring”. The key to a flavorful soup is the base: stock. Due to the process, Progresso’s chefs use to simmer the real bones, Progresso Cooking Stocks have rich, meaty flavor and are full of body, making them ideal for adding deep, complex flavor to many dishes including soups, stews, sauces, and gravies.

lentil soup in a decorative white bowl

What’s the difference between stock and broth?

The foundation of any great soup of stew is a flavorful broth or stock. Often the terms stock and broth are used interchangeably, but there are three important differences: ingredients, cook time, and seasoning.

Stock is made by simmering a combination of bones, mirepoix (carrots, celery, and onion), and aromatics in water for two to six hours. Gelatin from the bones is an essential part of the stock that is created when the connective tissue in meat breaks down, giving stock its body; the gelatin is what causes a stock to gel when chilled.

Broth is typically made by simmering meat, mirepoix, and aromatics for a shorter amount of time, typically between 1 and 2 hours. It is also often more heavily seasoned than stock.

Bone broth is a hybrid of broth and stock. It is cooked for a long period of time and the goal is not only to extract the gelatin from the bones (like in a stock), but also to release the nutritious compounds and minerals (namely collagen, but also glucosamine, amino acids, electrolytes, calcium, and more). 

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Vegetable Lentil Soup on a white wooden board

Vegetable Lentil Soup

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 40
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8
  • Category: Soup
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Description

Warm up this winter with a warm bowl of Vegetable Lentil Soup. This vegan soup will be sure to help meet your daily recommendations of veggies for the day!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 (15 oz) cans fire roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup green lentils
  • 1 (1 quart) box Progresso vegetable cooking stock
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups kale, ribs removed and chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the onions and carrots, cook stirring often, until onion becomes tender and translucent.
  2. Add the garlic, cumin, and thyme. Cook until fragrant. Add fire roasted tomatoes and chickpeas.
  3. Add the lentils, then pour in Progresso vegetable cooking stock and water. Season with salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Bring soup to a boil, then turn down to a gentle simmer. Cook for 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
  4. Transfer 3 cups of soup into a blender or food processor (make sure to get an even mixture of veggies and broth). Puree mixture until smooth. Add pureed soup back into the pot and add kale. Cook until wilted.

Keywords: lentil, vegan, vegetarian, soup, plant-based

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Disclosure: By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Progresso and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.

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Lemon Parsley Chickpeas

30 minutes or less, Beans & Grains, Dairy Free, Dietary, Egg Free, Gluten Free, MAIN DISHES, Nut Free, One pot/dish, PREP, Quick & Easy, Recipes, Side Dishes, Vegan, Vegetarian, Vegetarian
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Adding more plant-based proteins into a healthy diet, like chickpeas, can reduce the risk of heart disease. Chickpeas are a versatile legume in the kitchen and with a few simple ingredients, you’ll get hooked on these Lemon Parsley Chickpeas!
Lemon Parsley Chickpeas via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenI’m on a total chickpea kick lately. These lemon parsley chickpeas, hummus, and Banza pasta.. I can’t get enough.
Did you know.. Chickpeas, also called Garbanzo Beans, are the most widely consumed legume in the world?Lemon Parsley Chickpeas via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchenChickpeas are a great balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. With the new USDA guidelines, along with many other beneficial improvements now encourages healthy eating patterns to include:

A variety of protein foods, including seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, legumes such as beans and peas, soy products, and nuts and seeds.

The typical American diet is so “meat-based” when it comes to the protein food group. Adding variety of plant-based protein is beneficial for many reasons including it’s high fiber content, providing adequate protein for growth and repair, and low in saturated fat which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Chickpeas are a great plant-based protein to start incorporating into a healthy diet!
Lemon Parsley Chickpeas via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

Enjoy these Lemon Parsley Chickpeas as a side dish, top of salad, or simply as a snack #plantbased #vegan

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Lemon Parsley Chickpeas via RDelicious Kitchen @rdkitchen

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lemon parsley chickpeas in a white bowl

Lemon Parsley Chickpeas

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
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Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (15 oz.) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Add olive oil to a large saute pan over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic, saute for 1 minute, until it begins to become fragrant. Add chickpeas and toss with garlic and olive oil until evenly coated.
  3. Stir in lemon juice and simmer until reduced by half, tossing chickpeas occasionally.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
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