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general tso’s-style eggplant stir-fry {meatless monday}

by Jackie Newgent  |  December 29, 2014  |  4 Comments
I eat my fair share of Chinese food! But when I can make it at home, I feel so much better about what I’m putting in my body—because I know exactly the ingredients that I’m using. One of the dishes that always seems crave-worthy to me is anything labeled “General Tso’s.” Unfortunately, that usually means breaded, fried, and tossed in a decadent sauce. I don’t order it for that very reason. So I finally created a healthier homemade version of General Tso’s. This vegetarian stir-fry recipe is full of textures and colors, mainly from eggplant, edamame, and red bell pepper. It’s got a spicy kick, too. There’s no breading or deep frying required. It’s delicious as is or paired with...
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seasonal pumpkin and sage risotto

by Jackie Newgent  |  November 3, 2014  |  2 Comments
Risotto is a comfort food that I adore—especially as the weather turns colder. But whole grain risotto is not easily found on restaurant menus. So this is one dish I prefer to make at home. Since traditional preparation of risotto can take a bit of time and patience, I’m sharing with you my cheater’s version! Simply use short grain brown rice for an excellent risotto-style entrée that’s easier and more intriguing than the conventional version. Luckily, this kind of cheating is a good thing! The short grain rice provides a perfectly sticky texture that’s ideal for risotto making. Here, I’ve gone seasonal and used fresh pumpkin and sage. Creaminess and tang is provided by yogurt and just the right amount...
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meatless monday: western stuffed potato skins with eggs

by Jackie Newgent  |  October 27, 2014  |  0 Comments
If you’re a fan of sporting events or bar food, chances are good that you’ve probably enjoyed a stuffed potato skin or two during football season! Now, here’s a way to enjoy them more often–at home and in a healthful yet equally delicious way. They’re a perfect addition to a Meatless Monday night football gathering. And don’t worry if your game day starts super early. These potato skins are stuffed with eggs; so they’re ideal to savor for a sporty brunch (and a tasty way to boost protein early in the day). Think of them as the best of both–a western omelet and hash brown–all in one fun bite! Calories saved: 190 Why it’s better for you? Stuffed with veggies...
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meatless monday: baby bella and broccoli lo mein

by Jackie Newgent  |  October 6, 2014  |  0 Comments
This Asian-inspired stir-fried noodle dish is a delight! It has a nice balance of saltiness to sweetness … the slight hint of sweetness coming naturally from coconut water. It’s a tasty way to up your veggie quota for the day. It’s a versatile recipe, too. You can swap in nearly any non-starchy vegetables. Try it with various noodles, like protein rich adzuki bean or edamame spaghetti. And serve this dish hot or cold. When chilled, lightly splash with rice vinegar and enjoy as a lively noodle salad. Whichever way you choose to partake in this lo mein, do enjoy it often–and especially on Meatless Monday! Calories saved: 230 Why it’s better for you? Lots of veggies + whole grain goodness!
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savory spinach & “goat cheese” oatmeal

by Jackie Newgent  |  August 12, 2014  |  3 Comments
A bowl of savory oatmeal, including this savory spinach & “goat cheese” oatmeal, is so much more interesting than the more traditional sweet version. And homemade oatmeal can be a quick and simple. Pre-prep the ingredients the night before, if you like. Then skip the snooze alarm and whip up this great-tasting, good-for-you, comforting take on oatmeal. By going savory instead of sweet, it’ll be more satisfying than a few extra minutes of disrupted sleep anyway! Enjoy alongside a cup of green tea and, if you wish, a serving of fresh seasonal fruit.
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