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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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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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creamy roasted squash soup

by Jackie Newgent  |  November 26, 2013  |  0 Comments
(Click on photo for full-size image!) Makes 6 servings: 1 1/3 cups each Butternut squash is one of my favorite veggies to enjoy during the holidays, especially when roasted. How about you? And when roasted and pureed into a soup, it’s divinely comforting. I’ll be enjoying this creamy vegetarian-friendly soup often. I hope to hear you slurping up its sweet and savory goodness often, too. Happy holidays! Calories saved: 90
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