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simple lemony white bean salad with fresh herbs

by Jackie Newgent  |  December 21, 2016  |  2 Comments
My pantry is almost always stocked with canned organic cannellinis, chickpeas, and black beans! That’s because they’re packed with antioxidants, fiber, and protein. Plus, they’re notably filling and simple to fix. This recipe showcases all of the above—and is loaded with fresh herbs and flavor. I based this super easy bean side salad on “Italian Cannellini Bean Salad,” which I found on page 160 of my very own The All-Natural Diabetes Cookbook, 2nd Edition. That’s because the Recipe Redux theme of the month was to “Grab a Book & Cook,” selecting a recipe on a page using any combination of the number ‘2016.’ So, voila! I couldn’t resist putting a new twist on one of my own recipes. Of course, this...
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lemony beet “hummus” with poached pistachios

by Jackie Newgent  |  December 5, 2016  |  1 Comment
Move over traditional hummus! This new twist on the dip uses white beans to allow all flavors to shine through. It’s prettier thanks to beets! (Hint: It’s okay to use the pre-packaged type to save time.) And it’s nutritiously intriguing thanks to poached pistachios, made simply by simmering shelled pistachios in water for 20 minutes. Pair with sliced cucumbers, jicama, or whole grain pita chips. Enjoy as a sandwich condiment, too. Calories saved: 34 Why it’s better for you? Both traditional hummus and this version are good for you. What’s interesting about this recipe is that you’ll get lutein and zeaxanthin from the pistachios and betalain from the beets! Disclosure: I developed this recipe for Wonderful Pistachios as part of...
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baba ghannoush with poached pistachio puree

by Jackie Newgent  |  November 28, 2016  |  0 Comments
It’s the most wonderful time of the year … if you’re a Christmas “geek” like I am! I love to entertain during the holiday season! There’s almost always going to be a dip available when I host a gathering. Every year I whip up one that’s new. So, here’s this year’s creation—an inspired take on baba ghannoush (Middle Eastern eggplant dip). Poached pistachio puree is what makes this recipe special. I use it here in place of tahini for a unique taste twist and velvety texture. And beyond just a dip, baba ghannoush makes a delightful bruschetta topping … including this version. Serve it as a festive (and Meatless Monday-friendly!) pick that all of your family and friends—vegetarian or otherwise—can...
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roasted butternut squash skewers

by Jackie Newgent  |  October 12, 2015  |  7 Comments
You simply can’t go wrong by serving roasted butternut squash as a seasonal side dish. But adding extra herbs and spice and serving it as a fun hors d’oeuvres on skewers is way more intriguing. So voila, here’s the recipe! These seasonal vegetable kebabs are crazy good! And when you’re able to give each and every butternut squash cube the individual attention it deserves, you’ll be more satisfied. This recipe can be easily doubled for a party buffet. The skewers are perfect to help you ‘Sideline Meat’ on Meatless Monday nights. Pair them with almond nog for a holiday celebration! Calories saved: 107 Why it’s better for you? The just-right portion size is a fun way to boost party-time veggie...
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beet “pesto” cauliflower pizza with greens

by Jackie Newgent  |  May 4, 2015  |  2 Comments
It was such as pleasure hosting two amazing food-loving dietetic interns this spring. One of them, Lucy Song, has a terrific palate for plant-based cuisine and an eye for photography. So as part of her internship experience, I asked her to create a recipe makeover for Meatless Monday. Here’s her story behind this recipe. I first discovered the delectable flavor combination of pear and cheese a few years ago in the form of a Quattro Formaggio Pear Pizza at a cute Italian restaurant in Old City, Philadelphia. That afternoon, I had dragged my patient boyfriend all over the neighborhood as I sought to satisfy my voracious craving for Italian food. We finally decided on this spot, and the pizza was...
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