MEXICAN CHICKEN SALAD

This is the perfect time of year to be dining outside here in Fayetteville - beautifully flavorful and fresh, this Mexican Chicken Salad is the perfect accompaniment to your al-fresco experience.

MEXICAN CHICKEN SALAD

1 cup corn kernels
1 lettuce
2 hot, cooked chicken breasts, sliced
4 to 5 radishes, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (I used a mixture of red and yellow tomatoes)
1/2 cucumber, cut into 2 cm chunks
handful of cilantro leaves
2 teaspoons buritto or taco seasoning mix
1 teaspoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice

Cook the corn in a saucepan of boiling, lightly salted water for 1 to 2 minutes. Drain and set aside. Tear the lettuce into bite sized pieces and arrange on a serving platter. Add the chicken, radishes, tomatoes, cucumber, cilantro leaves and corn.
Lightly whisk the burrito seasoning mix, brown sugar, olive oil and lime juice together in a small jar. Taste and add a little salt if needed.
Drizzle dressing over salad and serve.
Enjoy!

THAI STYLE CHICKEN IN LETTUCE LEAVES - Fayetteville Pilates and Barre - recipedoodle Wednesday

My family and I loved these Chicken Lettuce "wraps".
Fresh tasting, with a delicious burst of mint, spicy ginger and cool cucumber. The flavors blended beautifully.
Placing everything out in the bowls, made it fun for the kids to put together, and even the adults enjoyed playing with their food.

THAI STYLE CHICKEN IN LETTUCE LEAVES

3 tablespoons rice vinegar
1/4 cup sugar
4 teaspoons garlic, minced
2 teaspoons crushed red pepper
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 teaspoons finely grated fresh ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons Asian sesame oil
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 cucumber, peeled and cut into 1/4 inch dice
1 red pepper, stem and seeds removed, sliced
1/4 cup mint leaves
1/4 cup cilantro leaves
2 tablespoons roasted peanuts
1 head of butter lettuce
2 tablespoons water

In a small saucepan, mix the vinegar with the sugar and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Add 1 teaspoon of the garlic and the crushed red pepper and let cool.
In a large bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of the sweet seasoned vinegar with the remaining 3 teaspoons of garlic and the soy sauce, ginger and sesame oil. Set aside 2 tablespoons of this soy marinade. Add the chicken and the remaining marinade in the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.
Heat the broiler. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let it drain, slice thinly, then broil for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a platter and let it rest for 5 minutes.
In a medium bowl, toss the cucumber with the remaining sweet seasoned vinegar. Put the red pepper, mint, cilantro and peanuts in separate bowls. Arrange the lettuce leaves in a basket.
Add the water to the reserved 2 tablespoons of soy marinade.
Wrap the chicken and garnishes in lettuce leaves, and pass the soy marinade and cucumber salad separately.
Enjoy!

ROASTED RED PEPPER HUMMUS

My husband was out of town overnight, for the Arkansas Hospitality Association meeting, while
I enjoyed and appreciated the change in our weeknight routine, and took the opportunity to cook as little as possible, and to use up what was in the refrigerator.
I made this yummy Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, slathered it on a sandwich with goat cheese, then piled on chicken, avocado, pan fried Prosciutto and arugula. My daughter took one bite, and suddenly half of my sandwich was gone.

ROASTED RED PEPPER HUMMUS

1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup garbanzo beans, drained
1/4 cup tahini
juice from 1 lemon
3/4 cup roasted red peppers
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

In a food processor, combine garlic, garbanzo beans, tahini, and lemon juice. Process until the mixture is smooth. Add roasted peppers and basil and pulse until the peppers are finely chopped. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer hummus to a bowl, cover and chill until you are ready to serve.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from All Recipes
allrecipes.com/‎

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

After taking time in the morning to exercise, shower, and meet a friend for lunch, I had 20 minutes until an appointment. I ran home, threw a load of laundry in the washing machine and mixed the filling for the Chicken Enchiladas. Later, while enjoying a glass of wine and a chatting with a friend who had stopped by for a quick visit, I rolled the filling into the tortillas and popped the dish in the oven - just in time to put dinner on the table for my husband and kids, before I ran out to a committee meeting.
Perfect dinner for a busy, busy day!

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

2 (8 ounce) packages of cream cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup
2 cans green chilies
1 to 2 pounds of cooked chicken breast, diced
20 flour tortillas
1 can enchilada verde sauce
2 cups fiesta blend shredded cheese

Heat oven to 350F.
Mix cream cheese, cream of chicken soup and green chilies with diced chicken in a large bowl. Divide mixture among the tortillas and roll. Place rolled tortillas in a baking dish.
Pour the enchilada verde sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the cheese over the top.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and the centers of the enchiladas are hot.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Arkansas Living, May 2012
www.aecc.com/arkansas-living-magazine/recipes/‎

CHICKEN LIVER CROSTINI

I thought this Chicken Liver Crostini was sexy, I really did!!
I made it for a recent dinner party, and served it as an appetizer, but saved the last little bit for just my husband and myself.
A few nights after the dinner party, we opened a bottle of wine and savored the remaining pate, in celebration of the last Boy Scout meeting my husband would be responsible for.
As part of a cheese board, with fresh fruit, preserves, crackers and nuts, and the kids in bed asleep, it was the perfect romantic respite - a lovely get-away at home.

CHICKEN LIVER CROSTINI

1 pound chicken livers
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 sage sprigs
1 rosemary sprig
1 anchovy fillet, minced
1 tablespoon drained capers
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup cognac
1 baguette, thinly sliced, toasted

Trim the chicken livers of any sinews and veins and set them on paper towels to dry for about 20 minutes.
In a large skillet, melt the butter in 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Add the chopped onion, sage and rosemary and cook over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the anchovy and capers and cook over low heat until the onion is lightly browned, about 8 minutes longer. Scrape the mixture into a medium bowl.
Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Season the chicken livers with salt and pepper, add them to the skillet and cook over high heat until browned, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook the chicken livers for 1 minute longer. Stir in the onion mixture. Add the cognac and carefully ignite it with a long match. Cook the livers until the flames subside.
Discard the herb sprigs and scrape the contents of the skillet into a food processor, let cool slightly. Pulse to desired level of smoothness, then season with salt and pepper.
Either spread the baguette toasts with the chicken liver to serve, or spread the mixture into a ramekin and top with melted duck fat - chill before serving.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Food and Wine, September 2009
www.foodandwine.com/recipes‎

COQ AU RIESLING and PANANG CHICKEN CURRY and ROASTED MOROCCAN CHICKEN and CHICKEN SPAGHETTI

In 1992, chicken consumption surpassed that of beef in the United States. Chicken is extremely versatile - roasted, added to currys and casseroles, it mixes well with many flavors in many dishes for a quick and easy dinner.
Chicken is eaten in every country, including Antarctica, and has even been eaten in Outer Space.
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/When_did_chicken_consumption_pass_beef?#slide=4
Enjoy one of these effortless, simple, uncomplicated recipes where chicken is the star.

COQ AU RIESLING

3 pounds of chicken breasts, cut into cubes
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup canola oil
1 onion, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
1 celery rib, chopped
2 shallots, chopped
1 1/2 cups riesling wine
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
3 rosemary sprigs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup creme fraiche
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Heat oven to 300F.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large, enameled cast-iron casserole, heat 2 tablespoons of the canola oil. Add half of the chicken and cook over moderately high heat, turning, until browned, 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate, cook the remaining chicken, then pour off the fat and wipe out the casserole.
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of canola oil in the casserole. Add the onion, carrot, celery and shallots and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned, about 8 minutes. Add the wine and simmer for 1 minute, scraping up the browned bits from the pot. Add the chicken stock and thyme and bring to a boil.
Nestle the chicken in the casserole, cover and braise in the oven for 1 hour, until tender.
Meanwhile, in a very large skillet, melt the butter in the olive oil. Add the mushrooms and cook over high heat, without stirring, until well browned, about 5 minutes. Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper and cook, stirring, until tender, about 3 to 5 minutes, add to the chicken.
Whisk in the creme fraiche and lemon juice, simmer for 3 minutes.
Garnish with parsley and serve.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Food and Wine, October 2013
www.foodandwine.com/recipes‎

PANANG CHICKEN CURRY

1 1/2 talbespoons olive oil
1 1/2 pounds of chicken, cut into cubes
1/2 cup finely chopped shallots
2 tablespoons finely grated peeled ginger
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 teaspoons turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon sambal oelek
1/2 cup water
1 can light coconut milk
4 kaffir lime leaves
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 1/2 cups of peeled, sliced carrots

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, shallots, ginger and garlic, cook until chicken and shallots are tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add peanut butter, turmeric, cumin and samba oelek, stir until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.
Whisk in water then coconut milk, lime leaves and brown sugar, bring to a simmer.
Season the sauce with salt. Add carrots and simmer over medium heat until carrots are tender, occasionally stirring, about 12 to 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Bon Appetit
www.bonappetit.com/recipes‎

ROASTED MOROCCAN CHICKEN

2 teaspoons paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cumin
salt and pepper
1 whole chicken

Heat oven to 425F.
In a small bowl combine the paprika, ginger, coriander, cinnamon, cumin, 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper to taste.
Place the chicken, breast side up, in a roasting pan. Rub with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the spice mix, making sure to get under the skin and in the cavity.
Roast for 55 minutes to an hour, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Rachael Ray Magazine, December 2013
www.rachaelraymag.com/recipes/‎

CHICKEN SPAGHETTI

3/4 stick butter
1 cup celery, chopped
3/4 cup chopped onion
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 small can of tomatoes, chopped
1 cup chicken broth
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 can rotel tomatoes
1 cooked chicken, remove skin and chop the meat
10 ounces velveeta, cubed
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 pound of spaghetti, cooked
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese

Heat oven to 350.
Melt the butter in a pan. Saute the celery, onion and garlic until wilted. Mix with the tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, rotel chicken, velvet, soups and spaghetti, Season to taste with salt and pepper. Spread in an 11 by 14 inch baking dish.
Sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese, bake for 45 minutes.
Enjoy!

OREGANO OLIVE CHICKEN and CAPER ROSEMARY SALMON

Even though they are both pickled and Mediterranean, olives and capers are not part of the same family.
Fruit and flower bud are featured in these flavorful recipes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

OLIVE OREGANO CHICKEN

4 chicken breasts
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup chopped pimiento-stuffed olives
1/4 cup capers, drained
2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped

Sprinkle chicken with pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, brown chicken on all sides in oil. Remove and keep warm. Drain drippings from skillet.
Combine remaining ingredients, pour into skillet, stirring to loosen browned bits. Bring to a boil. Carefully return chicken to pan. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 20 to 25 minutes or until chicken juices run clear.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Readers Digest
www.rd.com/food/

CAPER ROSEMARY SALMON

6 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons drained capers
4 teaspoons liquid from capers in jar
4 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel
2 teaspoons finely minced fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon sea salt
large pinch of dried crushed red pepper
pinch of sugar
1 small onion, diced
6 salmon fillets

Whisk first nine ingredients in a large bowl. Stir in onion. Transfer mixture to resealable plastic bag. Add salmon and seal bag, let marinate for one hour, turning occasionally.
Prepare grill, remove salmon from bag. Grill until just cooked to the center, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
Pour marinade into small saucepan, bring just to simmer.
Place one salmon fillet on each plate, spoon warm marinade over. Serve with a green salad.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Bon Appetit, August 2008
www.bonappetit.com

CHICKEN MEATBALLS WITH SWEET PEANUT SAUCE

I had half a package of ground chicken in the refrigerator, left over from another recipe, and I thought these Chicken Meatballs would be a fun and tasty way to use it. They were a success, and enjoyed by everyone in our family.

CHICKEN MEATBALLS WITH SWEET PEANUT SAUCE

1 pound of ground chicken
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup dried breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
chopped peanuts for garnish

Mix chicken, cilantro, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt and pepper. Roll into 1 tablespoon balls. In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
Add meatballs and cook through, 6 to 8 minutes. Meanwhile, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil, in a bowl, and warm in microwave.
Sprinkle cooked meatballs with peanuts, and serve with the dipping sauce.
Enjoy!

BAKED SAUSAGE STUFFED BACON WRAPPED JALAPENO POPPERS and BAKED BUFFALO WINGS WITH BLUE CHEESE SAUCE

Happy Super Bowl Sunday 

BAKED SAUSAGE STUFFED BACON WRAPPED JALAPENO POPPERS

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed
36 jalapeños
2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
36 slices of bacon (I used center cut)

Heat oven to 450F.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high (I used cooking spray in place of the olive oil). Brown the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, about 7 minutes. Drain on a paper towel.
Slice off and discard the stem ends of the jalapeños, remove the ribs and seeds (I sliced down one side to open them up, remove the seeds and stuff with the cheese-sausage mixture).
In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, parmesan and sour cream until well combined. Stir in the  cooled sausage. Using a small spoon, stuff the jalapeños with the cream cheese mixture. Wrap each pepper with a piece of bacon.
Place peppers on a baking sheet covered in foil and sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Rachael Ray, October 2013
www.rachaelray.com/‎

BAKED BUFFALO WINGS WITH BLUE CHEESE SAUCE

2 pounds of chicken wings (tips removed and separated at the joints - although we neglected this step)
1/2 cup hot sauce
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 tablespoon honey
2 1/2 teaspoons cider vinegar (divided use)
2 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
1/3 cup buttermilk
3 tablespoons sour cream
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
celery sticks for serving

Heat oven to 450F. Line two baking sheets with parchment papaer and arrange wings, in a single layer, skin side down. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until golden on the bottom, turn and bake 5 minutes more.
Meanwhile combine hot sauce, butter, honey and 1/2 teaspoon vinegar in a large bowl and set aside.
In a medium bowl, mix blue cheese, remaining vinegar, buttermilk, sour cream, sugar salt and pepper.
Toss the warm wings with the hot sauce mixture until well coated. Transfer to a platter, serve with blue cheese sauce and celery sticks.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Shape, January/February 2013
www.shape.com/healthy-eating/healthy-recipes‎

ASIAN CHICKEN DUMPLINGS and PORK DUMPLINGS and CHINESE NOODLES WITH BARBECUE PORK and MANGO PUDDING

Happy Chinese and Vietnamese New Year!!! Wishing you luck and prosperity in the Year of the Horse!!

ASIAN CHICKEN DUMPLINGS

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/2 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
2 tablespoons canola oil
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
wonton wrappers (I used round)

In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of ginger and the rice vinegar.
In a large bowl, mix the chicken, cabbage, remaining ginger and oils and season with salt and pepper.
Put about 1 tablespoon of mixture into a wonton wrapper, brush the edges with water, fold and pinch to seal. Repeat until all mixture is used.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Rachael Ray Magazine
www.rachaelray.com/‎

PORK DUMPLINGS





1 egg white, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons oyster sauce
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 pound ground pork
wonton wrappers (I used square)

Whisk together the egg white, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar, salt and pepper in a medium sized bowl. Stir in the green onions, ginger and garlic, add the pork and stir until the filling is thoroughly combined.
Put about a tablespoon of filling into the middle of each wonton wrapper, moisten the edges with water and bring the corners of the wrapper together at the top, pinching to seal.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Family Fun Magazine, February 2010
family.go.com/recipes/‎

CHINESE NOODLES WITH BARBECUE PORK

PORK
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon sherry
1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1 (1-pound) pork tenderloin, trimmed and diced
NOODLES
12 ounces chinese noodles
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 1/2 tablespoons minced peeled ginger
1 garlic clove, minced
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
1/2 onion, sliced
2 cups fresh bean sprouts
3 green onions, sliced

To prepare pork, combine honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sherry, five-spice powder, salt and pepper, in a zip-lock bag. Add pork. Seal and marinate in refrigerator 8 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.
Heat broiler to high. Remove pork from bag, and discard marinade. Place pork on a foil lined baking sheet, broil for 4 minutes on each side or until it is cooked through. Let stand 10 minutes.
To prepare noodles, cook according to package directions. Combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, set aside.
Heat a large pan over high heat, add oil to pan, swirl. Add ginger, garlic and jalapeño, stir fry 30 seconds. Add sliced onion, bean sprouts, and green onions, stir fry one minute. Add pork and soy sauce mixture. Serve over noodles.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Cooking Light, March 2013
www.cookinglight.com/‎

MANGO PUDDING

2 envelopes of unflavored gelatin
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup hot water
3 cups pureed frozen mango
1 cup evaporated milk

Add gelatin and sugar to hot water and mix until dissolved and smooth. Mix in mango puree and evaporated milk, stir until smooth.
Pour mixture into bowl and chill until set (I poured mine through a sieve because the gelatin formed lumps).
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from About.Com
http://chinesefood.about.com/od/dessertsfruit/r/mangopudding.htm

CRAB GRATIN WITH ANCHOVIES AND PARMESAN and SPINACH SALAD WITH POACHED PEARS and CHICKEN DIJON and CARDAMOM VANILLA CUSTARDS

At one of our first dinner parties of the New Year, we gathered wonderful people, good food and great wine.
We started with champagne, Crab Gratin and a cheese plate, then made our way down to the wine cellar for dinner and dessert, venturing out periodically to watch the exciting Football game that was unfolding that evening.

It was an interesting evening/menu to put together, as one of our guests is not able to eat anything "on the hoof" following a tick bite many years ago, and another of our guests didn't care much for seafood.
This was our meal, I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

CRAB GRATIN WITH ANCHOVIES AND PARMESAN

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
3 tablespoons flour
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup cream
1/2 cup seafood stock
1 pound crabmeat
2 cups parmesan cheese, grated
salt and freshly ground black pepper
10 to 12 anchovy filets

Heat oven to 425F. Grease a 2 quart baking dish.
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add garlic, cook until soft, about 1 minute. Add flour, cook, stirring until smooth, for about 2 minutes. Whisk in milk, cream and stock, bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, cook until slightly thick, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, fold in crab meat, 1 cup of cheese, salt and pepper. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish, spread in an even layer. Arrange anchovies on top and sprinkle with remaining cheese, bake until golden brown and bubbly, about 25 minutes.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Saveur
www.saveur.com/‎

SPINACH SALAD WITH POACHED PEARS

4 pears
1/2 cup white wine
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 whole star anise
1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest
1/2 cinnamon stick
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 cups baby spinach leaves
2 tablespoons walnuts, toasted
2 tablespoons dried cranberries
1/2 cup thinly sliced Manchego cheese

Peel pears and cut in half, scoop out seeds. Place in a pan, cut side down. Combine 1 cup of water with wine, sugar, vanilla extract, star anise, lemon and orange zest and cinnamon stick, and pour over pears. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 25 minutes or until pears are tender.
Remove pears from pan, strain the liquid, and reserve 3 tablespoons, discard the spices and remaining liquid. Slice pears into thin strips and set aside.
In a food processor or blender, combine the slices from 2 pears with reserved poaching liquid, oil and vinegar. Pulse until smooth, then add salt and pepper to taste.
Toss remaining pear slices with spinach, walnuts, cranberries and Manchego.
Divide salad evenly among plates and serve drizzled with dressing.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Shape Magazine, October 2012
www.shape.com/healthy-eating/healthy-recipes‎

CHICKEN DIJON

1 teaspoon coriander seeds
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 chicken thighs
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup chopped onion
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
3 tablespoons creme fraiche
2 teaspoons chopped tarragon
crusty bread for serving

In a large skillet, toast the coriander seeds over moderately high heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer the seeds to a mortar and let cool. Crush the seeds coarsely with a pestle.
In the same skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, add them to the skillet and cook over moderately high heat, turning, until golden brown all over, about 10 minutes. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the broth and crushed coriander and bring to a boil. Cover and cook over moderately low heat until the chicken is cooked through, about 15 minutes.
Transfer the chicken to a platter, cover and keep warm. In a small bowl, whisk the mustard with the creme fraiche and tarragon. Whisk the mixture into the skillet and simmer the sauce over moderate heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and turn to coat. Serve the chicken with crusty bread.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Food and Wine, October 2011
www.foodandwine.com/recipes‎

CARDAMOM VANILLA CUSTARDS

4 cups half and half
8 egg yolks
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Heat oven to 325F.
In a medium saucepan, bring the half and half to a boil, then remove from the heat. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the egg yolks, sugar, cardamom and salt until thick ribbons form when the beaters are lifted, abut 2 minutes. Slowly pour the warm half and half into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Stir in the vanilla.
Divide the mixture among ramekins. Place the ramekins in a large baking pan. Transfer the pan to the oven. Pour in enough very hot tap water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Cover the pan tightly with foil. Bake the custards, until the centers are just set, 55 to 60 minutes. Let the custards cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Carefully remove the ramekins from the water and let cool on a rack until just warm to the touch.
Refrigerate the custards until chilled completely, about 1 hour.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Rachael Ray Magazine, November 2012
www.rachaelraymag.com/recipes/‎

CRANBERRY POMEGRANATE COSMOPOLITANS and TURKEY MEATBALLS IN CRANBERRY BARBECUE SAUCE and CRANBERRY AND LIME LEAF DRUNKEN CHICKEN and CRANBERRY SALAD DRESSING and APPLE CRANBERRY SLAW and ROASTED CARROTS WITH DRIED CRANBERRIES AND SMOKED ALMONDS and CRANBERRY GOODNESS and SPARKLING CRANBERRIES

While cooking before and after the holidays, I incorporated fresh cranberries, dried cranberries, cranberry juice, and cranberry sauce!

CRANBERRY POMEGRANATE COSMOPOLITANS

2 cups vodka
1 cup orange liqueur
1 cup cranberry juice cocktail
1/2 cup pomegranate juice
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

Combine the vodka, orange liqueur, cranberry juice, pomegranate juice and lime juice in a large pitcher. Fill a cocktail shaker half full with ice, pour the cocktail mixture in and shake for a full 30 seconds. Pour into martini glasses.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Ina Garten, 2008
www.foodnetwork.com/ina-garten/recipes/‎

TURKEY MEATBALLS IN CRANBERRY BARBECUE SAUCE

1 can (16 ounces) whole berry cranberry sauce
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 egg whites
1.25 pounds lean ground turkey
2 green onions, chopped
2 teaspoons grated orange peel
1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Combine cranberry and barbecue sauces in a slow cooker. Cover, cook on high for 20 to 25 minutes, or until cranberry sauce melts and is heated through.
Meanwhile, place egg whites in a medium bowl, beat lightly. Add turkey, green onions, orange peel, soy sauce and pepper. Mix until well blended. Shape into meatballs.
Spray a skillet with cooking spray, heat over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes or until meatballs are no longer pink in the center, turning to brown evenly. Add to heated sauce in the slow cooker, stir gently to coat.
Turn the slow cooker to low, cover and cook for 3 minutes. Remove meatballs to a serving platter.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from The Crock Pot cookbook
www.crock-pot.com/accessories/cookbooks/SCBESTLOV.html‎

CRANBERRY AND LIME LEAF DRUNKEN CHICKEN

1 roasting chicken, giblets removed
2 cups cranberry juice
1 (750 milliliter) bottle of red wine
zest and juice from 2 oranges
zest and juice from 2 lemons
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/4 cup kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped
2 tablespoons lemongrass paste
2 tablespoons ginger paste
2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns
1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
1 tablespoon salt

At least 8 hours before serving, place all ingredients in a bowl, large enough to hold chicken and liquid. Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight. When ready to cook, heat oven to 400F.
Pour marinating mixture through a sieve. Discard liquid, and put solid remainder in chicken cavity.
Place chicken in a roasting pan and cook uncovered until an internal thermometer reads 160F and skin is golden and crisp 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Let chicken sit for 10 minutes before carving.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Oprah Magazine, November 2010
www.oprah.com/food.html‎

CRANBERRY SALAD DRESSING

Combine 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey and 1/4 cup cranberries in a saucepan, bring to a simmer over medium heat. Turn off heat and allow to cool, then combine with 2 chopped dates, 1/3 cup olive oil and a pinch of salt.
Enjoy!

APPLE CRANBERRY SLAW

1/3 cup Italian dressing
2 tablespoons maple flavored pancake syrup
1/2 (14 ounce) package of coleslaw blend
1 apple, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries

Mix all ingredients together.
Enjoy!

ROASTED CARROTS WITH DRIED CRANBERRIES AND SMOKED ALMONDS

7 carrots, peeled and cut into slices
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1/4 cup chopped shallots
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup smoked almonds, coarsely chopped

Heat oven to 400F.
Place carrots in medium baking dish and drizzle with honey and olive oil. Sprinkle with thyme and toss to coat. Sprinkle with shallots and dried cranberries. Bake 15 to 18 minutes, or until carrots are tender. Sprinkle with smoked almonds.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from The Arkansas Democrat Gazette, November 2013
www.arkansasonline.com/news/features/food/‎

CRANBERRY GOODNESS

1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup quick oats
3 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
3 apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup butter, melted

Heat oven to 350F.
Coat a 3 quart casserole dish with nonstick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine sugars, oats, flour and cinnamon. Add fruits and nuts, mixing well. Spread mixture in prepared dish. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from The Arkansas Democrat Gazette, November 2011
www.arkansasonline.com/news/features/food/‎

SPARKLING CRANBERRIES

Cook 1 cup of pure maple syrup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, 1 to 2 minutes. (Don't let the syrup get too hot or cranberries will pop). Remove from heat, stir in 2 cups of fresh cranberries.
Cover and chill 8 to 12 hours. Place 1 cup of sugar in a large bowl. Drain cranberries in a colander (about 15 minutes). Add 4 to 5 cranberries at a time to the sugar, gently toss to coat.
Repeat with remaining cranberries. Place cranberries in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet. Let stand until completely dry.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Southern Living, November 2013
www.southernliving.com/food/‎

TRAVEL TUESDAY - PORTUGAL - GRILLED PORTUGUESE STYLE CHICKEN WITH MANGO SALSA

Mum had always wanted to drink Port in Portugal.

The opportunity presented itself this past summer, due to the Rotary International Convention being held in Lisbon, although we didn't plan to attend any of the scheduled events, we did plan to sample local beverages.

We flew into the capital city, and met my Uncle, who happened to be backpacking around England (at age 67 no less), and had popped across to meet us before continuing on his journey through Asia, on his way back to New Zealand.
We rented a van, requiring a large vehicle to accommodate 3 kids and 4 adults, and headed North out of Lisbon. My husband maneuvered it expertly through the ancient narrow streets we often encountered during our journey.

Sardine lunch beside the ocean

We relished the rich, wonderful and delicious history. Usually eating in restaurants for lunch, sampling as many traditional dishes as we were able, octopus, sardines, salt cod and the local vinho verde or green wine. While dinner was often enjoyed wherever our home was for the evening, where we savored produce, cheeses and other fare from the markets we visited during the day.

Salt Cod dish we enjoyed at a restaurant on the banks of the Rio Douro

A view of Porto across the Rio Douro

Traveling North, we spent the night in a pretty Bed and Breakfast in the Nazare region, and then on to Porto, stopping to tour a retired battleship, and enjoy as much time on the beaches as we were able.
Our adventures included a bus tour around Porto, a boat ride along the Rio Douro and a tour of the port houses.
My husband and I were able to take a long walk most mornings, which is my favorite way to see a new place. Although English wasn't as widely spoken as I had expected, it definitely added to the charm and adventure of our vacation.

Another view of Porto

My husband booked all of our accommodations through Airbnb https://www.airbnb.com/‎ and we had wonderful experiences, but I think my absolute favorite was the "marmalade farm", a historic homestead with a pool, and orange and grapefruit trees, surrounded by vineyards in the town of Sa. We spent several nights there, taking a brief trip across the border into Spain, and touring forests and Historical Roman sites.

The "marmalade farm"

Then we headed down to Lisbon, where we took excursions to Sintra to see castles and Cascais for the beach.

Cascais, a ferry and bus ride from Lisbon

While in Portugal, I had the idea to collect a plate from every country I visit. I imagine it will be fun and nostalgic, to one day, use the mismatched pottery at a gathering.

Portuguese plate

The Grilled Portuguese Style Chicken was a recipe that originated in Portugal, was found in a magazine published in New Zealand and cooked and consumed in America.

GRILLED PORTUGUESE STYLE CHICKEN WITH MANGO SALSA

6 to 8 chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil
5 cloves of garlic
3/4 cup roasted red pepper
1/2 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 mango, peeled and diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 red capsicum, diced
1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
2 teaspoons of lime juice
1/2 cup chopped fresh mint

Use a small sharp knife to make several deep cuts in the chicken.
To make the marinade, puree the garlic, olive oil, roasted red pepper, onion, brown sugar, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano and lemon juice in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Coat the chicken pieces in the marinade, cover and leave to marinate for at least an hour or overnight.
Gently mix mango, red onion, cucumber, mint, capsicum and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper and refrigerate.
Grill on high for 20 minutes, turning once until golden.
Serve the chicken with fresh mint and a squeeze of lime, with the salsa on the side.
Enjoy!

ROSEWATER CUPID and CHUTNEY CHICKEN SALAD and CURRIED CRAB DIP and MANGO SHRIMP WITH CILANTRO YOGURT SAUCE and CAULIFLOWER AND POTATOES and CHICKEN CURRY

On a recent evening when friends came for dinner, we settled on an Indian theme.
We served the appetizers outside, then moved in to the dining room for a chicken curry and a goat curry, accompanied by naan bread, poppadoms and chutney.

ROSEWATER CUPID

1/4 ounce elderflower liqueur
3 drops rose water
bitters
1 ounce gin
rose champagne

In a champagne glass, add 1/4 ounce elderflower liqueur, 3 drops rose water, and a dash of bitters. Add 1 ounce chilled gin and top off with chilled rose champagne.
Enjoy!

CHUTNEY CHICKEN SALAD

1/3 cup slivered almonds
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup greek yogurt
1/3 cup mango chutney
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
5 cups diced cooked chicken
4 green onions, finely chopped
mini fillo tart shells

Heat oven to 350F. Bake almonds in a single layer in a shallow pan 5 to 7 minutes or until toasted and fragrant, stirring halfway through. Cool 20 minutes.
Whisk together mayonnaise, greek yogurt, mango chutney, curry powder, salt and pepper. Add chicken, green onions and toasted almonds, and toss until well blended. Cover and chill 2 to 24 hours.
Fill tart shells with chicken salad just before serving.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Southern Living, February 2012
www.southernliving.com › Food › Recipes

CURRIED CRAB DIP

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
2 teaspoons curry powder
3 tablespoons mango chutney, chopped
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
1 pound lump crabmeat
salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a skillet, melt the butter. Add the onion and ginger and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes. Add the curry powder and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the chutney, cream cheese, mayonnaise and lime juice and cook, stirring, until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Stir in the green onions, cilantro and crab. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the dip is heated through, about 1 minute. Transfer to a shallow bowl, serve with bread and chips if desired.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Food and Wine, December 2009
www.foodandwine.com/recipes‎

MANGO SHRIMP WITH CILANTRO YOGURT SAUCE

1/4 cup cashews
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
4 garlic cloves
1 jalapeño, halved and seeded
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 cup mango nectar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 cup plain yogurt
salt
1 1/2 pounds large shrimp
2 tablespoons butter, melted
CILANTRO AND YOGURT SAUCE
2 cups cilantro leaves
1 cup mint leaves
1 jalapeño, seeded and coarsely chopped
4 garlic cloves, crushed
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 cup plain yogurt
salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a blender, combine the cashews, ginger, garlic, jalapeño, mustard seeds, garam masala, and turmeric and pulse until the ginger and garlic are finely chopped. Add the mango nectar and lemon juice and puree until smooth. Add the yogurt and 1 tablespoon of salt and pulse to blend. Pour the mixture into a large bowl. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Refrigerate for 2 hours.
Light a grill. Thread the shrimp on skewers. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with salt. Oil the grate and grill the shrimp over high heat, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Serve the shrimp with the Cilantro and Yogurt Sauce.
CILANTRO AND YOGURT SAUCE
In a blended, combine the cilantro, mint, jalapeño, garlic, cumin and lemon juice and puree to a paste. Add the yogurt and puree until smooth. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Recipe.com
http://www.recipe.com/mango-shrimp/

CAULIFLOWER AND POTATOES

4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large head of cauliflower cut ito 1 1/4 inch florets
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin seeds
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
3/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
2 hot serrano peppers, finely chopped
4 potatoes, boiled, peeled, and diced
salt to taste

Heat oil in a tall sided saucepan, and stir fry cauliflower. Make sure it remains slightly crisp, but also browns in places. Remove cauliflower, add more oil to the saucepan, if necessary, and add cumin seeds, ground cumin, coriander and turmeric. Stir fry mix about 30 seconds. Return cauliflower to saucepan, add serrano pepper and potatoes and stir until cauliflower and potatoes are evenly coated. Season to taste with salt.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from The Arkansas Democrat Gazette, April 2008
www.arkansasonline.com/news/features/food/‎

CHICKEN CURRY

4 chicken breasts
2 carrots, coarsely chopped
2 celery ribs, coarsely chopped
2 onions, chopped
4 cloves of garlic (all peeled, 2 minced)
2 tablespoons grated ginger
1 bay leaf
1 lime, sliced
3 cardamom pods
salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 apple, peeled and chopped
2 tablespoons curry powder
3 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup mango chutney

Place the chicken in a medium pot. Add the carrots, celery, 1 onion, whole peeled garlic, 1 tablespoon ginger, bay leaf, lime and cardamom pods, then cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, add a couple of pinches of salt and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Gently poach the chicken for about 35 to 40 minutes or until it is cooked through.
Strain the chicken, reserving the stock. When the chicken is cool enough to handle, chop into bite sized pieces.
Wipe out the stock pot and place back on heat. Add the olive oil and the butter. Add the chopped onion, remaining ginger, apple and curry powder. Once the onion and apple are just tender, sprinkle in the flour, stir then whisk in reserved stock until desired consistency is reached. Bring the mixture to a light simmer to thicken. Add in the chicken and the mango chutney.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Rachael Ray Magazine, December 2012
www.rachaelray.com/recipe.php?recipe_id=5125

TRAVEL TUESDAY - FAIRFIELD BAY, ARKANSAS - HOT CHICKEN DIP and CRAB MORNAY

We have a wonderful Thanksgiving Tradition, a beautiful legacy inherited from my husbands parents. They had time share properties, and would book multiple condos for the Thanksgiving week - one per family. It is perfect, as every one has their own space, and being somewhere neutral, means no individual has all the stress of hosting.
Although our group doesn't always go to Fairfield Bay, we have spent the last few years there. It is a retirement community that contains, among other things, a bowling alley, ice cream store, a golf course - and offers a schedule of the upcoming weeks activities on arrival - such as Open Pickleball Play and Ukranian Egg Decorating. The Ozark Folk Center and Blanchard Springs Caverns are close by, and we have found some gorgeous hiking areas. But part of the appeal of Fairfield Bay is the limited amount of activities  - we do a lot of relaxing, and the cousins love to play and make their own fun where ever they are.
I love our mealtime schedule, we fend for ourselves and any one who happens to be in reach, at breakfast and lunch, and each family takes an evening to cook. I am always so excited to see what everyone is going to prepare - and was especially curious to see what spread WE were going to lay out this year, as we accidentally left our ice chest, full of the dinner we had planned to serve, languishing in the garage at home. Thankfully our house sitters rescued it - and told us it was the best pork they had ever eaten. I did manage to find the ingredients for the appetizers - so we at least had Hot Chicken Dip and Crab Mornay.
We all cook and contribute to the Thanksgiving Day feast, and I love that, apart from a couple of dishes that have become staples over the years, our family is always open and willing to try new recipes. Each year brings a new method of cooking the turkey, different ways to prepare the stuffing and side dishes, and a changing array of desserts.
I must admit, I used to look at the beautifully set Thanksgiving tables in glossy magazines with longing and envy, but now I wouldn't have our Holiday any other way. Plain white condo crockery, paper napkins, the enormous amount of excitement and chaos with 18 people all trying to get a plate of food in a tiny kitchen, comfortable clothing and wonderful conversation - all adds to our particular, unique, wonderfully special day.

HOT CHICKEN DIP

Heat oven to 350F. Place 2 (8 ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened, and 1 (10 ounce) can of cream of chicken soup in a large bowl. Beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. Stir in 1 (12.5 ounce) can of chicken breast in water, drained and flaked, 1/3 cup coarsely chopped jarred pickled sliced jalapeño peppers, and 1 tablespoon of pickled jalapeno pepper juice from a jar. Spoon into a lightly greased 8 inch baking dish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is browned and bubbly.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Southern Living, March 2013
www.southernliving.com/food/‎

CRAB MORNAY

1/2 cup butter
1 bunch green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups cream
1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
2 tablespoons sherry
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
1 pound crabmeat
1/2 cup chopped parsley

Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over medium-high heat, add onions, and saute 3 minutes or until tender. Whisk in flour, and cook, whisking constantly, 2 minutes. Add cream and cook, whisking constantly, until smooth and sauce begins to bubble. Remove from heat, and stir in cheese until smooth. Stir in sherry, salt and pepper. Gently fold in crabmeat and parsley.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Southern Living, December 2013
www.southernliving.com/food/‎

ROAST CHICKEN WITH ORANGES

There is something wonderfully comforting about roasting a chicken, and sitting down to share it with family, and whichever friends happen to be over. It is a very simple meal, that always fills me, and our family, with contentment and pleasure.

ROAST CHICKEN WITH ORANGES

one 6 pound roasting chicken
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
6 rosemary sprigs
2 oranges, washed and halved
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1/2 cup white wine
1/4 cup honey
salt and freshly ground pepper
1 3/4 cups chicken stock

Heat the oven to 425F.
Set the chicken in a roasting pan and stuff the cavity with the garlic, rosemary and 2 of the orange halves. Juice the remaining 2 orange halves. Rub the olive oil over the chicken. Pour the wine and orange juice over the chicken, drizzle on the honey and season with salt and pepper.
Roast the chicken for 20 minutes. Add 1 cup of the broth to the pan, cover the pan with foil and reduce the oven temperature to 375F. Roast the chicken for 40 minutes. Add the remaining 3/4 cup of broth to the roasting pan. Cover and roast for 50 minutes longer, or until a thermometer inserted in an inner thigh registers 165F.
Transfer the chicken to a carving board and let rest for 15 minutes. Strain the pan juices into a saucepan and skim the fat. Carve the chicken and serve with the pan juices.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Food and Wine, December 2009
www.foodandwine.com/

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS and FALL CURRY CHICKEN

Although I used chicken in both of these pleasant recipes, left over turkey would be a perfect substitute. Transforming the bird from its previous Thanksgiving role on center stage to  b e a u t i f u l  back - up,   working well with other ingredients to create a completely new and different meal.

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

5 tablespoons butter, divided
1 onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cups, chopped cooked chicken
3 (4 ounce) cans diced green chiles, divided
3 cups shredded colby-jack cheese blend, divided
8 flour tortillas
2 tablespoons flour
3/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup milk

Heat oven to 350F.
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat, add onion and bell pepper, and sauté 5 minutes or until tender.
Stir together onion mixture, chicken, 1 can diced green chiles and 2 cups of shredded cheese.
Spoon 1/3 cup of chicken mixture on 1 end of each tortilla, and roll up. Arrange enchiladas, seam sides down, in a lightly greased 13 by 9 inch baking dish.
Bake for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, melt remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat, whisk in flour until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, 3 to 4 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Remove from the heat and stir in remaining 2 cans of green chiles.
Remove enchiladas from oven. Pour green chile mixture over enchiladas. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly. Serve with cilantro, chopped tomato and shredded lettuce as desired.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Southern Living, October 2011
www.southernliving.com/food/‎

FALL CURRY CHICKEN

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and cubed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 onion, diced
2 teaspoons curry powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
2 pods cardamom
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup light coconut milk
3 tablespoons chicken broth
1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1/2 cup golden raisins
1 apple, peeled and diced

Heat oil in a saute pan over medium heat, add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes, or until onion begins to soften. Add curry powder, cayenne pepper, cardamom and tomato paste and mix. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring until ingredients are combined.
Add squash to sauce and cover. Let simmer for 15 minutes, or until squash has softened. Return chicken and juices to pan. Simmer for 2 minutes, then add raisins and apple. Stir to combine.
(I ended up adding a jar of pre-made curry sauce to the mixture, as it seemed like it required more flavor).
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Shape Magazine, November 2013
www.shape.com/healthy-eating/healthy-recipes‎