EDIBLES
Support your immune system with grapes

(Family Features) Boosting immune function through a healthy diet has become an important new focus for many people these days. One key dietary recommendation is to eat more fruits and vegetables each day to improve immune function and prevent heart disease and diabetes. When looking to guide your family to healthier snacks and meals or simply trying to mix up your at-home menu, success can be as simple as rethinking the ingredients you choose to use, including your favorite produce, such as grapes.
Fresh California grapes, for example, make for an ideal snack because they are tasty, healthy, hydrating and refreshing, but grapes can also be used to make good-for-you dishes that are also satisfying and delicious. Grapes of all colors – red, green and black – are a natural source of beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols. Plus, they are naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free and contain virtually no sodium.
Try recipes like Moroccan Grape and Grilled Chicken Bowls with Grape Vinaigrette, Spiced Chickpeas and Grapes with Yogurt, and Cauliflower Steaks with Grapes to pair heart-healthy grapes with other nutritious ingredients and add variety and fresh appeal in the kitchen.
Visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com for more nutritious family recipes.

Moroccan Grape and Grilled Chicken Bowls with Grape Vinaigrette
Servings: 4
Couscous:
- 1 cup Israeli couscous
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup carrots, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup parsley, leaves only
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ras el hanout (Moroccan spice blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts (8 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon harissa paste
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup green California grapes
- 1 lemon, juice only
- 1 preserved lemon, rind only
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- salt, to taste
- ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup red California grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- To make couscous: Cook couscous in boiling salted water. Drain, rinse with cold water and combine with olive oil. Add carrots, tomatoes, parsley leaves, ras el hanout and salt. Mix well and set aside.
- To make chicken: Heat grill to medium-high heat.
- Rub chicken breasts with harissa paste, olive oil and salt. Grill on both sides until just done. Set aside to cool. Slice into 1/4-inch slices.
- To make vinaigrette: In blender, puree green grapes, lemon juice, lemon rind, olive oil and cilantro until smooth. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
- Toss couscous mixture with vinaigrette and portion into four bowls. Top with sliced chicken, red grapes and almonds.
Nutritional information per serving: 590 calories; 30 g protein; 44 g carbohydrates; 32 g fat (49% calories from fat); 4.5 g saturated fat (7% calories from saturated fat); 65 mg cholesterol; 720 mg sodium; 3 g fiber.

Spiced Chickpeas and Grapes with Yogurt
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed, drained and patted dry
- 1 cup California grapes
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
- 1/2 garlic clove, grated
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced scallions
- In large bowl, mix chickpeas and grapes.
- In small skillet, warm oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add mustard seeds and cover. Cook until seeds stop popping then add cumin and fennel seeds; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in 1/8 teaspoon salt and pepper flakes; pour over chickpeas and grapes. Mix well.
- In separate bowl, stir yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic and remaining salt. Spread on serving platter and top with chickpea mixture, cilantro and scallions.
Nutritional information per serving: 220 calories; 11 g protein; 31 g carbohydrates; 6 g fat (25% calories from fat); 1.5 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 5 mg cholesterol; 280 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.

Cauliflower Steaks with Grapes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
- 1 large head cauliflower, leaves trimmed off
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 1 cup halved California grapes
- 1/4 cup chopped Castelvetrano olives
- 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped, toasted pistachios
- Heat oven to 450 F.
- Cut stem off cauliflower and cut remaining head crosswise into four 1-inch-thick slices, keeping as intact as possible. Place on sheet pan and brush sides with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with rosemary, salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Roast until browned and tender, about 25 minutes.
- Combine remaining olive oil, remaining pepper, grapes, olives, parsley and pistachios. When cauliflower is roasted, transfer to serving plates and top with grape mixture.
- Nutritional information per serving: 210 calories; 5 g protein; 20 g carbohydrates; 14 g fat (60% calories from fat); 2 g saturated fat (9% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 480 mg sodium; 5 g fiber.
- Healthy Eating is Easy with Grapes
- Grapes are prized for their taste and crisp, juicy texture, but fresh grapes are also a heart-healthy, hydrating snack choice. Grapes contain more than 1,600 natural plant compounds, including antioxidants and other polyphenols, which help protect the health and function of the body’s cells. Grapes can be paired with other healthy foods to enhance flavor and nutrition, including dark leafy greens, cauliflower, broccoli, whole grains, legumes and lean proteins.
EDIBLES
Street tacos from the slow cooker

(Family Features) If your idea of street tacos includes standing over a hot skillet, wipe that sweat off your brow and give these Savory Street Tacos a try. They put the slow cooker and oven to work for you, providing that delicious street taco taste without the hassle. For more ways to simplify cooking at home, visit Culinary.net.

Savory Street Tacos
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 4-6
- 1 chuck roast (2-3 pounds)
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 ounces) beef consommé
- 16-20 street taco tortillas
- 1 package (8 ounces) shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup avocado oil
- salsa, for serving
- guacamole, for serving
- queso, for serving
- Cover chuck roast with taco seasoning then place in slow cooker. Pour beef consommé over roast and cook on low 6 hours to braise.
- Heat oven to 425 F.
- Use fork to shred roast.
- Brush outside of tortillas with avocado oil and fill with meat and shredded cheese. Place in casserole dish and bake 10-15 minutes until tacos reach desired crispiness.
- Place on tray and serve with salsa, guacamole and queso.
Tip: Recipe can be doubled for large crowds.
SOURCE:
Culinary.net
EDIBLES
Add this superfruit to your menu for heart-healthy meals

(Family Features) It’s no secret that adding greens to your menu – morning, noon and night – can go a long way toward healthier eating habits. While most people think of lettuce, kale, spinach, cucumbers and Brussels sprouts, don’t forget avocados are a superfruit you can use to add good fats and great taste to recipes throughout the day.
As a versatile fruit with naturally good fats and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, avocados have become a household staple. Avocados From Mexico is a national supporter of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Initiative – Eat Smart Program, encouraging people to incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables and other heart-healthy foods into their meals.
By supporting this initiative, Avocados From Mexico is helping to raise awareness about the importance of making smart nutrition choices. The brand’s “Good Fats Meet Great Taste” campaign, featured at select Kroger locations, highlights the importance of balanced nutrition and fresh food choices as part of an overall heart-healthy lifestyle.
Avocados provide a good source of naturally unsaturated fats, which can be part of a heart-healthy eating pattern when consumed in place of saturated fats. A well-balanced diet that includes nutrient-rich foods like avocados, whole grains, lean proteins and fiber-rich vegetables can support overall heart health. In addition to good fats, avocados are also a good source of fiber, with 3 grams per one-third of a medium avocado.
If you’re looking for an easy yet tasty way to add more avocados to your family’s menu, this Avocado, Brussels Sprout, Kale and Date Salad provides a delicious introduction to the superfruit. Loaded with greens and fit for sharing with a crowd, you can do your part to bring avocados to your nearest and dearest, neighbors or anyone you’re hosting for a fresh, better-for-you meal.
The best part: This heart-healthy dish comes together in a snap. Just process the homemade dressing featuring dates, Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar. Then toss Brussels sprouts, kale, red onion, pistachios and, of course, avocados before combining with the dressing.
Finally, serve with shaved Parmesan cheese on the side (so guests who prefer to avoid dairy can do so) and enjoy for a fresh meal that’s equal parts delicious and nutritious. Sliced avocados are the star of the dish, with naturally good fats and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, making this an always good, super fun recipe and a way to begin making smarter food choices.
Discover more ways to add heart-healthy meals to your menu by visiting AvocadosFromMexico.com/avocado-nutrition.

Avocado, Brussels Sprouts, Kale and Date Salad
Servings: 8
Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 dates, pitted, softened
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 Avocados From Mexico, sliced
- 6 cups Brussels sprouts, shaved or shredded
- 3 cups lacinto (dinosaur) kale, shredded
- 1 cup red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup pistachios (or pumpkin seeds), shelled
- reduced-fat (sharp) Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated, for topping (optional)
- To make dressing: In food processor, process lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, pitted dates and mustard. Slowly add olive oil to combine.
- To make salad: In large salad bowl, combine avocados, shaved Brussels sprouts, kale, red onion and pistachios. Drizzle salad dressing evenly over greens and toss until well-coated.
- Serve with shaved Parmesan cheese, if desired.
SOURCE:
Avocados From Mexico
EDIBLES
Bring the family together with baked breakfast pizzas

(Family Features) If you feel like it’s a struggle to get the entire family together for a meal, it might be time to put fun back on the menu. A little creativity and a few favorite ingredients are all it takes to bring back family mealtime and spend precious moments at the table.
These Individual Sweetpotato Breakfast Pizzas are a perfect way to start a weekend morning, offering a delicious invitation to loved ones to join you in the kitchen. Equal parts sweet, savory and nutritious, you can enjoy seeing smiles on their faces while feeling good about what you’re serving them.
Providing just the right touch of sweetness are North Carolina Sweetpotatoes, one of the most versatile vegetables in the produce department. They’re easy to add to a variety of recipes – even breakfast pizza – to enhance flavor and nutrition. Try them on the stove, baked, microwaved, grilled, slow-cooked or air-fried for quick and easy options that are a breeze in the kitchen.
Spelled as one word to avoid confusion with the white potato (a distinctly different species), sweetpotatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, all of which are good for overall health and may help prevent disease. In fact, they’re even considered a “diabetes superfood” by the American Diabetes Association. As a natural sweetener, they give recipes that sweet flavor you crave without the added sugar.
Whether they become your favorite oft-used ingredient or you stock up on the abundant veggie, sweetpotatoes also boast a long shelf-life – up to 4 weeks if stored properly in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources – meaning you can buy in bulk without worrying about waste.
Find more ways to cook with sweetpotatoes by visiting ncsweetpotatoes.com.
Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Individual Sweetpotato Breakfast Pizzas
Recipe courtesy of the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission
Servings: 4
- 4 medium North Carolina sweetpotatoes (about 2 pounds), divided
- 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon, olive oil, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- kosher salt, to taste
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- all-purpose flour, for rolling out dough
- 1 pound whole-wheat pizza dough at room temperature, divided into four equal portions (4 ounces each)
- 1 cup freshly shredded Gouda cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup diced chives
- Preheat oven to 400 F. Place 1 pound sweetpotatoes directly on rack and bake until soft, about 1 hour. Remove from oven and let cool 5-10 minutes. Peel and puree flesh until smooth; reserve 1 cup.
- Increase oven heat to 450 F. Peel remaining sweetpotatoes and dice into 1/2-inch pieces. Toss 2 cups diced sweetpotatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne and salt and pepper, to taste; place in even layer on baking sheet. Roast until softened but not crisp, 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway. Remove from oven.
- Lightly flour clean, flat work surface. Roll each ball of dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness (about 7 inches diameter).
- With remaining oil, lightly coat rimless baking sheet. Transfer rolled out dough to baking sheet.
- Spread pureed sweetpotato over surface of each dough round, about 1/4 cup each, leaving about 1/2-inch border. Top each with 1/4 cup shredded Gouda. Add 1/2 cup roasted sweetpotato cubes, leaving open space in center of pizzas.
- Carefully crack one egg into center of each pizza; bake 15 minutes until crusts are golden brown on bottom, cheese is melted and egg whites are fully set. Carefully remove pizzas from oven.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Top each pizza with 1 tablespoon diced chives.
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