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dark chocolate-strawberry mousse pudding

by Jackie Newgent | June 8, 2014 | 5 Comments

Makes 4 servings: 1/2 cup each I’m on a chocolate-covered strawberry kick lately. Not such a bad thing, right?! So I’ve uncovered another way to enjoy this perfect pairing—in a lovely pudding with mousse-like appeal thanks to avocados. Savor it slowly with a dainty dessert spoon or by dipping more strawberries into it. Calories saved: 480 Why it’s better for you: Avocados. Strawberries. No processed sugar. And it’s vegan!

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creamy fresh kale dip

by Jackie Newgent | May 8, 2014 | 0 Comments

Makes 16 servings: 1/4 cup each It’s the season for cookouts, picnics, and impromptu parties. You’ll need to have a good dip recipe on hand. So here you go … a natural take on classic spinach dip. No packaged mix required. My version is loaded with fresh vegetable goodness. Fresh baby kale replaces frozen spinach for a trendy twist. Though, if you can’t find baby kale, use fresh baby spinach. I enjoy dunking whole grain rye bread pieces into this dip. Tear from a rustic loaf or use perfectly cut petite slices. Or for veggie fanatics, pair it with broccoli, carrots, jicama, or bell pepper pieces. Calories saved: 160 Why it’s better for you: Kale is one of the healthiest...

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classic macaroni salad with grilled peppers

by Jackie Newgent | April 30, 2014 | 0 Comments

Makes 5 servings: 1 cup each I was asked to create a healthy macaroni salad, but to keep it classic. Basically, no overly frilly, fussy, or fancy ingredients allowed. That actually is more challenging than it sounds. Macaroni salad is considered “classic” for a reason. And I won’t use “fake” fat-free ingredients to concoct my recipes. That said, I was successful at creating this better-for-you version! I kept great taste and tradition in mind. And though not extra fancy, I did make this macaroni salad extra special by adding grilled peppers and fresh herbs. Enjoy it at your next cookout or picnic. I know I will! Calories saved: 170 Why it’s better for you: Pumped up the whole grains; more...

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cold peanut-sesame zucchini noodles

by Jackie Newgent | April 29, 2014 | 2 Comments

Makes 4 servings: 1 cup each When the weather turns warmer, I “crave” cold sesame noodles often. Unfortunately, they’re so much more caloric than they seem. So I tasked myself with developing a version that was a little (or a lot!) friendlier for the waistline. Here’s the result. Zucchini acts as the noodles. I use just the amount of sesame oil need for deliciousness. And I pumped up the ginger and garlic so it’s big on flavor. Hope you enjoy slurping up these “noodles” as much as I do. Calories saved: 550 Why it’s better for you: Veggie noodles = more total vegetables consumed

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bottomless mediterranean-style quiche

by Jackie Newgent | March 31, 2014 | 0 Comments

(Click on photo for full-size image!) Makes 8 servings: 1 wedge each When I hear the word “quiche” my mouth literally starts to water. Unfortunately, quiche can be so rich that I don’t sit down to enjoy it as often as I’d like. So voila; here’s a version that you (and I!) can savor anytime. To add a personal touch, my intern, Sheila Mulhern, and I decided to break from the traditional meaty option and go vegetarian as well as go Mediterranean. Our quiche filling contains freshly seasoned eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and goat cheese—perfect in our clever bottomless crust. It’ll be a delightful highlight of a special brunch. Make it for Mother’s day. Moms are worth the effort! Calories saved:...

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