Just in time for Easter! Wow guests and family with this easy Spring Surprise Cake

Photo providied

NewsUSA - Hosting an Easter brunch or other spring gathering? What better way to top off an event than with a showstopping dessert! The baking experts at Wesson created a new bundt cake with a twist on the popular surprise cake trend. It’s easy to make, and as delicious as it is impressive.

Wesson oil is the secret ingredient that makes this cake taste like it was made by a professional pastry chef. It creates a light, moist texture that lets the crunch and flavor of the pistachio honey fillings sing. A simple glaze gives it a sweet touch and the gold leaf takes this cake to the next level. Simply fill the open center with spring candies like mini chocolate eggs or jelly beans and you have a beautiful party finale to wow your guests!

WESSON EASY EASTER SURPRISE BUNDT CAKE

Ingredients ~

For the cake:

3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
3 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup Wesson oil
1 ½ cups milk
6 eggs

For the filling:

1 ½ cups plus 2 tablespoons chopped, shelled, raw pistachios
¼ cup flour
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons Wesson oil

For the glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk

Edible gold flake, for sprinkling on top

Easter candies to fill center of cake when displayed

Directions:

Making the cake:

Pre-heat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 10-inch (12-cup) Bundt pan.

In a large bowl, whisk together, flour, baking powder and salt until well combined.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, combine sugar, Wesson oil, eggs, and vanilla; mix well.

On medium speed, in four stages, add flour mixture alternating with milk, blending after each addition, ending with flour. Pour half of the batter into the pan and set aside. Next, make the filling.

Adding the filling:

In a medium bowl, mix 1 ½ cup pistachios, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 2 tablespoons of Wesson Canola Oil. Combine filling ingredients and mix well. Spoon the filling evenly over the surface of the batter in the pan. Top with remaining batter. Bake the cake in the center of oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a tester inserted in center comes out clean.

Remove cake from oven; cool in pan on a rack for 15 minutes. Carefully turn cake out onto serving platter and cool completely.

TIP: If cake does not turn out easily, gently run a knife around the outside edge of the cake.

Creating the glaze:

In medium bowl, combine 1 cup icing sugar (powdered sugar) and 2 tbsp of 3% milk. Stir until smooth. Spoon icing onto top of cooled Bundt cake and allow to glaze to dry for 15 minutes.

The finishing touch:

Decorate cake with flakes of gold leaf and chopped pistachios. Fill center of the Bundt with your favorite Easter candies. Cut the cake in front of your guests to wow them with an outpouring of sweet treats and serve. To view the recipe online, visit purewesson.com.

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Recipe |Make your St. Patrick’s Day spread green with envy

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Culinary.net - Freshen up your St. Patrick’s Day menu with easy, light sandwiches inspired by the traditional color of the festivities. These open-faced noshes can be perfect for lunch, snack time or even as an appetizer for get-togethers with friends and family.

Layered with a smooth cream cheese and mozzarella mixture then topped with crisp cucumber and a stem of green bell pepper, these St. Patrick’s Day Sandwiches are easy and cute, which makes them a fan favorite at nearly any green gathering. They’re also sprinkled with lemon juice to add a little acidity and create a nice, light bite.

Plus, this recipe is quick to make. When you’re in a rush to get everything on the table for the party, it’s easy to throw together and get on the platter in next to no time.

The sandwiches pop off the plate with their bright, seasonal garnishes. While sure to attract attention and have your loved ones asking “Where did you get this idea?” they’re also an easy way to sneak a few vegetables into your kids’ diets.

For more festive recipes and ideas at Culinary.net.

St. Patrick’s Day Sandwiches
Yield: 8 sandwiches

8 ounces plain cream cheese spread, softened
1 cup finely shredded mozzarella cheese
salt
4 English muffins
24 slices cucumber
8 thin slices green pepper
fresh cilantro leaves
lemon juice
lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

In bowl, mix cream cheese spread, mozzarella cheese and salt well.

Split English muffins in half. Cut each muffin half into shamrock shape.

Spread cheese mixture over each muffin half.

Place three cucumbers on each “shamrock,” one on each “leaf.” Use green pepper slice as stem. Place cilantro leaf on top of each sandwich.

Sprinkle sandwiches with lemon juice and add lemon slices, for garnish, if desired.

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Recipe | Warm and wonderful, Pastrami-Spiced Veal Burgers

Photo: NAPSI

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NAPSI - Whether you are feeding your family or entertaining guests, a delightful way to keep things cosy yet special during the cold weather season is with a delicious dish such as this one, made with Trusted Veal from Europe.

Pastrami-Spiced Veal Burgers

Yield: 6 servings

12 slices Smoked Gouda, sliced thinly
2 cups Sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
3/4 cup Mayonnaise
1 oz Fresh breadcrumbs
4 oz Milk
2 tsp Salt
2 lbs Ground veal
2 tsp Black peppercorns
2 tsp Coriander seeds
1/2tsp Mustard seeds
1 tsp Sweet paprika
1 tsp Onion powder
1/2 tsp Garlic powder
1 tsp Brown sugar
1/2 cup Whole grain mustard

How to make it

Place the breadcrumbs, milk, and salt in a bowl and soak the breadcrumbs until softened. Mix the veal with the breadcrumb mixture and combine to form six patties. Toast the peppercorns, coriander, and mustard seeds in a dry pan. Let cool and grind them with the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Coat the burgers with the spice mixture. Heat a grill on medium-high heat. Grill the burgers to desired doneness but at least 71°C (160°F) for food safety, adding a slice or two of cheese to each burger towards the end, to slightly melt. Spread the bottom of the bun with the mayonnaise, and top with whole grain mustard. Place the burger on the bottom, top with sauerkraut, and top with the bun.

As easy to make as they are enjoyable to eat, one reason these burgers are better is that they're made with genuine European veal. Desired for its light color and delicate taste and texture, European veal has long been held in high regard among chefs around the world. What's more, European Union (EU) Legislation means high animal welfare standards are practised and enforced so consumers worldwide can feel confident about Trusted Veal from Europe, considered simply the best in taste and tradition.Â

Fortunately, a wide selection of high-quality European veal is available throughout Canada. Ask your local retailer for European veal.

Learn More
For further facts about enjoying and purchasing Trusted Veal from Europe plus terrific recipes, visit www.trustedveal.com.

More Ways to Keep Cosy
In addition to cooking a comforting meal, there are other ways to keep your spirits up when the thermometer falls.

1. Exercise your option to keep moving. Try hot yoga. Or embrace the cold and go out and ski, skate or build a snowman. You’ll warm up while you’re out and appreciate the heat indoors even more.

2. Love a lamp. If the dark days get you down, an LED full-spectrum light may cheer you up as well as warm you up.

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Luscious Red Velvet for your Valentine sweetheart

Photo provided

Culinary.net - On the sweetest day of the year, a day full of flowers, love and sweets, Valentine’s Day is the ultimate opportunity to try a different dessert meant for two.

It’s hard to resist a perfectly blended, rose-red, luscious Red Velvet Mug Cake that is sure to put a warm smile on the faces of those you love dearly.

It’s the perfect size, with just a handful of instructions, and it’s easily cooked before your eyes in the microwave. That’s right, the microwave.

This mug cake is a simple way to make something delicious and keep the portions small. Whether you have a small party, just you and your loved one or just simply want something easy and small, this quick treat is designed just for you.

Start by mixing all the dry ingredients into a large mug, including flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt.

Then add milk, melted butter, vanilla and red food coloring. Use a spoon and stir the ingredients together until blended. Mix powdered sugar and cream cheese then drop the mixture into the cake batter and mix once more. Microwave the mug for up to 3 minutes until your cake is baked.

Valentine’s Day means sharing with someone how much you care, and it’s difficult to find a better way than to share something sweet.

This dessert has Valentine’s Day written all over it, however, it can be enjoyed anytime throughout the year and is perfect for a late-night snack if you’re craving something sugary-sweet.

Find more recipes and dessert ideas for every celebration at Culinary.net.

Red Velvet Mug Cake

Servings: 1

6 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
30 drops red food coloring
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened

In 12-ounce mug, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt. Add milk, butter, vanilla and food coloring; mix until blended.

In small bowl, mix powdered sugar and cream cheese until smooth.

Drop cream cheese mixture into cake batter. Press into batter until covered.

Microwave up to 3 minutes until cake is done.

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Turn up the heat and flavor for the big game with tasty BBQ

StatePoint - Hosting a Big Game watch party? By following the playbook of BBQ experts, you’ll have your friends and family cheering for your game day spread.

“The trick to achieving tasty BBQ is real smoke flavor. And, to get real smoke flavor, you need quality, natural hardwoods, with or without a pellet grill,” says Levi Strayer of Bear Mountain BBQ, “Start grilling with pellets, and everyone will immediately taste the difference—it’s a game changer.”

With that philosophy in mind, Bear Mountain BBQ ambassador Jennifer Danella is sharing two BBQ winning recipes. Both incorporate the brand’s premium pellets to bring unbeatable flavor to the table.

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Jennifer Danella/StatePoint Media

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Sweet Heat Barbeque Wild Turkey Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 boneless, skinless turkey or chicken breast, approximately 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon loosely-packed light brown sugar

• 1 package center-cut bacon, cut in half

• Sliced green onions

• Ranch dressing

• Chef’s Choice or Butcher’s Blend Bear Mountain BBQ Pellets

• 1/2 cup sweet barbecue sauce

• 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Directions:

1. Preheat grill to 400 degrees F.

2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. Place 1-inch turkey pieces into a medium size bowl. Sprinkle chili powder, paprika, cayenne, garlic salt, black pepper and brown sugar over top. Mix well.

4. Wrap half a slice of bacon around each turkey piece. Secure with a toothpick and place them onto the parchment paper.

5. Place the baking sheet into your preheated grill and bake for 25 minutes. Meanwhile, combine the barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce and garlic in a small bowl. Brush the turkey pieces halfway through cooking. Brush another layer of sauce five minutes before the cook time is over. Cook until the turkey pieces reach 165 degrees F.

6. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with ranch dressing for dipping.

Beer Cheese Dip

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese grated

• 1/2 cup gruyere cheese grated

• 8 ounces cream cheese softened

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 of a 1-ounce Hidden Valley Ranch Packet

• 2 tablespoons green onions chopped.

• 1/4 cup German lager beer

• 2 tablespoons baking soda

• 1 can biscuits

• 1 large egg, mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for brushing biscuits

• 12-inch cast iron skillet

• Bear Mountain BBQ’s Chef’s Choice Blend pellets

Directions:

1. Preheat pellet grill to 350 degrees F.

2. In large bowl, combine 1 cup cheddar, gruyere, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, beer and 1 tablespoon green onions. Mix evenly.

3. Cut biscuits in half. Roll each half into a ball, then slice an X across top.

4. Boil 2 cups water in medium saucepan. Once boiling, add baking soda and mix immediately.

5. Add biscuits to grill in batches and cook until puffy, approximately 1 minute. Remove and transfer to skillet, forming ring along inside edge.

6. Brush biscuits with egg wash. Sprinkle with salt.

7. Transfer dip to center of skillet. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar.

8. Smoke until biscuits are golden and dip is bubbly, 30-35 minutes.

9. Garnish with remaining green onions. Serve!

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As you make your Game Day preparations, head to Walmart, which is carrying a new collection of Bear Mountain’s grilling and smoking pellets. The five exclusive flavors -- Smoky Apple Whiskey, Maple Bourbon Pecan, Chef’s Choice, Butcher’s Blend and Chophouse Blend -- add unrivaled flavor to all grilling and smoking occasions. The collection can also be found online at Walmart.com. For recipe ideas and techniques for adding smoke flavor to your food using any grill, visit bearmountainbbq.com.

To bring your A-game to the Big Game, level up your hosting with mouthwatering BBQ treats.

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Start the day with a better-for-you breakfast

United Dairy Industry of Michigan

Family Features - Whether you're encouraging loved ones to start a new wellness kick or looking to add new ideas to an already-nutritious menu, families at any stage of a journey toward better health can use newfound favorites to bring fresh flavors to the table.

Start by ramping up your family's breakfast with these slightly sweet Mini Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Cinnamon-Maple Topping for a protein-packed way to start the day with a healthy addition of fresh berries. This dish from Milk Means More provides a delicious breakfast that allows you to bring everyone together for a tasty, nutritious meal no matter the occasion. Dairy foods, like the low-fat or fat-free milk and yogurt found in this recipe, are fundamental to good nutrition.

Constructing a better-for-you menu calls for a balanced diet with a variety of foods to get essential nutrients. This balance is important for maintaining healthy gut and immune function while optimizing overall wellness.

Find additional better-for-you recipe inspiration at MilkMeansMore.org.

Recipe
Mini Greek Yogurt Pancakes
with Cinnamon-Maple Topping
Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, culinary dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More

Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Topping:
1 3/4 cups plain Greek yogurt (fat free, 2% or 5%)
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pancakes:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 egg, lightly beaten
3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (fat free, 2% or 5%)
1/2 cup milk (skim, 2% or whole)
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1-3 tablespoons oil
1 cup fresh blueberries or chopped fresh strawberries

To make topping: Stir yogurt, syrup and cinnamon. Cover and refrigerate.

To make pancakes: In mixing bowl, stir flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In separate bowl, whisk egg, yogurt, milk, butter and vanilla. Add yogurt mixture to flour mixture. Stir just until combined (batter should be slightly lumpy).

Scrape batter into large plastic food storage bag. Oil nonstick griddle or large nonstick skillet. Heat over medium heat. Cut off about 1/2 inch from corner of plastic bag. Squeeze batter, about 1 tablespoon at a time, onto hot griddle. Cook 1-2 minutes per side, or until pancakes are golden brown, turning to second sides when bubbles form on surface of pancakes and edges are slightly dry.

Serve warm pancakes topped with cinnamon-maple yogurt and sprinkled with berries.

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Some really cool hosting hacks for your holiday party

Photo: Shopify Photos/Burst

Family Features - Entertaining friends and loved ones during the holidays offers an opportunity to slow down from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and make lasting memories. The key is getting ahead of hosting duties so you can be present with family and friends.

Make this season's holiday hosting effortless and enjoyable with these tips:

1. Stick with a simple menu

There's no need to create an elaborate menu with complex dishes that take hours to prepare. Instead, build your menu around easy crowd-pleasers. Save the experimenting with new recipes and ingredients for another time when you're less likely to feel the pressure. Be sure to consider your guests' likes and dislikes and be conscious of potential dietary restrictions.

2. Serve beverages with festive flair

A beverage station is a fun and unexpected way to infuse some extra holiday cheer into your event. Offer cozy options like hot chocolate and coffee, along with an array of seasonal mix-ins and flavors. Convenient and tasty options to have on-hand for the holidays are Starbucks creamers, featuring flavors inspired by cafe beverages like Caramel Macchiato, White Chocolate Mocha and Cinnamon Dolce Latte, all which are now available in limited-time red holiday packaging online and at your local grocery store.

Give your guests some festive drink inspiration to start with, such as this delicious holiday-themed recipe for Iced Gingerbread Caramel Coffee that is sure to become a favorite. For added fun, provide an array of toppings such as marshmallows, peppermint sticks and chocolate candies wrapped in colorful holiday wrappers.

3. Plan for entertainment

When a well-acquainted group gathers, the party has a way of taking on a life of its own. In case of a slow start, or if you're entertaining different groups of friends who don't know each other well, it's a good idea to prepare some options to get guests mingling and engaged. A playlist of holiday music creates a festive atmosphere and planning a few interactive games ahead of time can help break the ice.

4. Pace your preparations

Make a conscious effort to spread your party prep over the days and weeks leading up to your event. Saving all the cooking and cleaning until the day of the party only leaves hosts exhausted before guests even arrive. Instead, make a list of everything you need to accomplish around the house and tackle a few chores each night. Do your shopping a few days ahead so ingredients are still fresh but you aren't left scrambling. Prepare any dishes that can be refrigerated or frozen ahead of time.

5. Anticipate guests' needs

The secret to great hosting isn't really a secret at all; it's simply making sure your guests feel welcome and comfortable. Providing a secure spot for coats and handbags, offering a drink when they arrive and making sure they can find essentials like the restroom may seem obvious, but they're easily overlooked basics. If you worry you'll be too busy in the kitchen putting the finishing touches on the meal, recruit a friend or family member to act in your place.

Find more inspiration and other holiday-worthy recipes at athome.starbucks.com.

Iced Gingerbread Caramel Coffee

Prep time: 3 minutes
Yield: 16 ounces

Drink:
1 cup ice
4 tablespoons Starbucks Gingerbread Naturally Flavored Ground Coffee for double strength
6 ounces water
1 ounce Starbucks Caramel Macchiato Flavored Creamer

Toppings: whipped cream
homemade or store-bought caramel sauce
1 pinch nutmeg

Place ice in 16-ounce glass.

Brew gingerbread coffee with water and pour into glass.

Add caramel creamer. Stir.

Top with whipped cream, drizzle of caramel sauce and nutmeg.

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For a quickie dessert this week, make a batch of Whoopie Pies

Family Feature - If you’re looking for an easy dessert to make this week, this Whoopie Pie recipe below is the perfect way to cap off weeknight meals. These won't last long, so you will probably want to make a couple of batches at a time. Whoopie Pies are also an awesome midday snack with a cup of hot chocolate or afternoon cup of coffee.

Find more dessert recipes at Culinary.net.

Whoopie Pies

Ingredients

1 box spice cake mix

1 1/2 cups apple butter

1/2 cup canola oil

2 eggs

8 ounces cream cheese

4 tablespoons butter

3 cups powdered sugar

2 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

How to put them together

Heat oven to 350 F.

Line baking sheet with parchment paper.

In large bowl, whisk spice cake mix, apple butter, oil and eggs.

With ice cream scoop or large tablespoon, spoon batter into rounded heaps, about 2-3 inches in diameter, onto parchment paper. Space spooned batter 2 inches apart.

Bake 14 minutes. Let cool.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese, butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add milk and vanilla; beat until blended.

Frost flat sides of pie halves and place halves together.

Refrigerate and store in sealed container.

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Make cooking dinner a family activity: A pair of recipes for you and the kids

Family Features - Busy fall schedules often leave little time for the things that matter most – sharing special moments with those you love. This year, as time seems to speed up during another school year, making family bonding a priority in your household can start with a few simple tricks.

Connect with your loved ones this fall while juggling hectic routines with this advice:

Schedule Family Nights
Desiring evenings spent with your nearest and dearest and actually making them happen are two separate things entirely. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season with days that feel too long and evenings that are often too short. Putting dedicated family nights on the calendar is a good way to avoid last-minute commitments that take away from important bonding time. Incorporate some favorite activities, whether your loved ones are board game enthusiasts or movie buffs, to give everyone something exciting to look forward to.

Make Cooking Together a Family Activity
Making dinner for the family shouldn’t take up valuable time that could be used for quality moments together. Seeking out quick and easy recipes leaves more hours in the day to spend with family members – or you can even make preparing dinner a family activity.

Teaching kids how to make your favorite recipes creates great memories and can maximize time spent together. From making kid-approved lunchbox sliders together to preparing time-saving, weeknight-friendly sliders as a family after school, King’s Hawaiian Rolls and Slider Buns have the power to help unite busy parents and picky kids. Plus, they’re soft and fluffy with the right touch of sweetness, and sliders are customizable, easy, fun and always a crowd pleaser. These Ham and Swiss Sliders or Peanut Butter, Jelly and Banana Sliders offer ways kids can help, from layering meats and cheeses to spreading peanut butter. Everyone can lend a hand in the kitchen while enjoying quality time together.

Encourage Extracurricular Participation
Beyond those special moments at home, there are plenty of ways to connect with your kiddos. Encouraging them to participate in extracurriculars, like sports, band, theater, dance, choir or other activities, provides a great way to enjoy something together as you watch your children branch out and try new things. If they happen to try an activity you used to (or still do) participate in, it’s an easy way to make a unique connection by sharing your own memories, offering helpful tips or even passing down old equipment like sports gear or an instrument.

Find more inspiration for family bonding with delicious meals and snacks by visiting KingsHawaiian.com.

Ham and Swiss Sliders

Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6

• 1 stick butter
• 1 package (12 rolls) King's Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
• 1 pound shaved deli ham
• 1 pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese

1. Heat oven to 350 F. Melt butter and set aside.
2. Cut entire pack of rolls in half horizontally, keeping all top and bottom halves intact.
3. In 9-by-13-inch pan, place bottom halves of rolls and cover with ham and cheese.
4. Cover ham and cheese stacks with top halves of rolls. Drizzle butter mixture over tops of rolls.
5. Bake, uncovered, 15-20 minutes. Separate rolls for serving.

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Peanut Butter, Jelly and Banana Sliders

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

• 1 package (12 rolls) King's Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
• 4 tablespoons salted peanut butter
• 4 tablespoons strawberry jam
• 2 bananas, sliced

1. Cut entire pack of rolls in half horizontally, keeping all top and bottom halves intact.
2. Spread peanut butter on bottom halves followed by strawberry jam. Top with banana slices then top halves of rolls.

 

Recipe | Flavor-rich fresh homemade peach pie

Photo provided

StatePoint Media - From the hearty and warm flavors of winter to the bold, rich and bright flavors of summer, herbs and spices are not only a delicious and better-for-you addition to any dish, they can transform it into unforgettable memories.

Summer is the perfect time of year to celebrate food, flavor and time with family or friends. As you prepare for all this season’s gatherings, remember to shop carefully, as freshness is essential when it comes to herbs and spices.

"Fresh flavors and aromas are strong triggers that ensure that experiences today are remembered tomorrow," says Giovanna DiLegge, vice president marketing, North America Consumer at McCormick, a global leader in flavor.

That’s why for the first time in nearly 40 years, McCormick is debuting a brand new design for its red cap branded products that audibly seals in aromas and flavors, for long-lasting freshness of herbs and spices. And to help you make the most of summer, McCormick is sharing this recipe for Fresh Peach Pie, which incorporates rich and bright summer fruits, and a sweet note of cinnamon spice:

Ingredients:
• 3 pounds fresh peaches, peeled, pitted and sliced (about 7 cups)
• 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons sugar, divided
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 1/2 teaspoons McCormick Ground Cinnamon, divided
• 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts, (2 crusts)
• 3 tablespoons corn starch
• 1 tablespoon McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:
1. Mix peaches, 1/2 cup of sugar, lemon zest and juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in large heat-safe bowl until well blended. Let stand 30 minutes. Drain peaches, reserving 8 tablespoons of juice. Return peaches to bowl; sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set aside.

2. Meanwhile, prepare pie crust as directed on package. Roll each crust into 12-inch circles on lightly floured surface. Press 1 crust into bottom of 9-inch pie plate. Cut remaining crust into 10 strips, about 1-inch wide. Refrigerate pie plate with bottom crust and prepared strips until ready to assemble pie.

3. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Mix 2 tablespoons of remaining sugar, remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt, remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon and corn starch in small bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of reserved peach juice to cornstarch mixture, whisking to mix well; set aside.

4. Place remaining 6 tablespoons peach juice in small saucepan. Bring to simmer on medium-low heat. Stir in vanilla. Whisk cornstarch slurry into saucepan. Cook and stir just until thickened and smooth, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat. Pour syrup mixture over peaches; toss to coat. Allow to cool slightly.

5. Spoon peach mixture into chilled pastry-lined pie plate. Arrange pie dough strips over top to create a lattice (see below for instructions). Trim dough strips about 1/2-inch longer than bottom pie crust. Fold strips underneath crust and pinch to adhere. Crimp or flute crust edges, as desired. Brush lattice with water and sprinkle evenly with remaining 1 tablespoon sugar. Place pie plate on large shallow baking pan.

6. Bake 25 minutes or until crust is lightly browned. Reduce heat to 375 degrees F. Rotate pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes longer, until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool on wire rack. Serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired.

How to weave a lattice top crust: Using longer strips for the center of pie and shorter strips for edges, arrange 5 pie dough strips vertically over top of filling, leaving about 1 inch of space between each strip. Fold back every other strip (2 and 4) to just above midline of pie. Place one of the longer strips across pie horizontally, just below the fold. Fold vertical strips back down over top of the horizontal strip. Fold back the opposite vertical strips (1, 3 and 5) and place another strip below the first horizontal strip, again leaving about 1 inch of space between them. Fold vertical strips back down over top. Repeat this process with one more strip below, and then 2 strips above first crosswise strip. Work quickly, as the warm filling may make the dough difficult to work with.

After 15 to 20 minutes of baking, cover edge of crust with foil strips to prevent excessive browning.

Recipe | Breakfast Brunch Board

Family Features - Few things go together like the weekend and brunch. Whether that means gathering with family, friends or a combination of both, it's the perfect time to slow down and bring your loved ones together for a lighthearted meal.

Catering to a variety of different palates requires a diverse menu of dishes ranging from fresh fruit and baked goods to proteins and more. A key ingredient to bring any spread together: Envy apples, which are a natural cross between Braeburn and Royal Gala apples.

With their beautifully balanced sweetness, uplifting fresh aroma, delightfully satisfying crunch and bright red skin that sometimes features a golden blush, they can be served fresh or paired with other brunch favorites in shareable dishes like the Brunch Board with a Twist. Plus, their naturally white flesh doesn't brown as quickly as other apples, making them easy to savor while enjoying time with loved ones.

Find sweet brunch recipe inspiration at EnvyApple.com.

Brunch Board with a Twist

2 Envy Apples, sliced

boiled eggs, halved

cooked bacon

bananas, sliced

berries

miniature pancakes

edible flowers, for garnish

2-3 Envy Apples, for garnish

On breakfast platter, artfully arrange sliced apple, halved boiled eggs, bacon, bananas, berries and pancakes. Garnish with edible flowers and whole apples.

Recipe | Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Photo provided

Family Features - As you plan your summer fun, think also about adopting healthy habits that can help keep your blood pressure under control. When your blood pressure is consistently high - a condition called hypertension - blood flows through arteries at higher-than-normal pressures. This can cause serious health problems not just for your heart, but also for your blood vessels, kidneys, eyes and brain.

Hypertension affects women and men of all ages but making small lifestyle changes can go a long way toward prevention. Start with updating your summer menu with delicious, heart-healthy recipes, like Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.

Following a heart-healthy eating plan, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), which emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, low-fat dairy and healthy oils, can help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range. Developed through research by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), DASH focuses on reducing sodium and limiting foods that are high in saturated fat, including fatty meats, full-fat dairy and tropical oils.

Along with adding healthy recipes to your summer menu, NHLBI's The Heart Truth program encourages these healthy habits that can help you control blood pressure:

Move more: Aim for at least 150 minutes (2 1/2 hours) of physical activity each week. Try keeping yourself on pace each week by shooting for 30 daily minutes of activity over five days.

Aim for a healthy weight: Research shows adults with overweight and obesity can lower their blood pressure by losing just 3-5% of their weight. Ask a friend or family member to join a weight loss program with you; social support can help you both stay motivated.

Manage stress: Reduce stress - which can increase blood pressure - with meditation, relaxing activities or support from a counselor or online group.

Quit smoking: Smoking damages your heart and blood vessels. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or find other resources available online.

Get your summer off to a heart-healthy start by talking to your health care provider about your blood pressure numbers and what they mean. To learn more about heart health and blood pressure, visit hearttruth.gov and find DASH-friendly recipes at healthyeating.nhlbi.nih.gov.

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Recipe courtesy of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Sauce:

2 tablespoons ketchup

2 tablespoons light soy sauce

2 tablespoons honey

2 teaspoons orange juice

1 teaspoon garlic (about 1 clove), minced

1 teaspoon ginger, minced

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12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2 large breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 24 cubes)

1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (about 24 pieces)

8 wooden skewers (6 inches each), soaked in water

To make sauce: Combine ketchup, soy sauce, honey, orange juice, garlic and ginger; mix well. Separate into two bowls and set aside.

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Preheat oven to 350 F.

Alternately thread three chicken cubes and three pineapple chunks on each skewer.

Grill skewers 3-5 minutes on each side. Brush or spoon sauce from one bowl onto chicken and pineapple every other minute. Discard remaining sauce from first bowl.

To prevent chicken from drying out, finish cooking to minimum internal temperature of 165 F in oven. Using clean brush or spoon, coat with sauce from remaining bowl before serving.

Recipe | Bacon-wrapped chicken with goat cheese

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Two healthy snack options for families on the go

Photo provided

Family Features - School days offer nearly endless opportunities for learning and exploration in the classroom, but education doesn’t have to end with the final bell. Parents can ensure their students feel energetic, creative and confident by inspiring snack choices that are as smart as they are fun to make together.

Whether you’re whipping up a snack to send to school or your little learners need an energy boost before starting afternoon homework, creative snacking can help encourage inspiration. As a trusted ally with better-for-you and convenient whole-fruit lunchbox snacks kids can enjoy, Sun-Maid offers these easy tips and ways to embrace the fun side of snack time.

• Keep It Simple: Look for recipes with five ingredients or less so your children can show their artful nature without becoming overwhelmed. Plus, this often leads to a more budget-friendly at-home treat.
• Shop Together: Gathering ingredients and equipment is an important part of any recipe, and bringing your future chefs along helps them feel like it’s their creation from start to finish. Additionally, some important life lessons can be learned along the way, like how to navigate the store and compare costs.
• Provide Kid-Friendly Instructions: There are many ways kids can lend a hand in making their own snacks, like mixing ingredients, washing produce or arranging a plate or platter. However, some steps are best left to the adults – make sure to do any cutting, slicing or dicing before letting children take the reins, for example, then just enjoy the creative fun.

With childhood favorites like crackers, marshmallows and vanilla yogurt covered raisins, Gimme S'mores Trail Mix offers a perfect way to get young minds thinking in the kitchen. A little guidance is all it takes to teach them each step of the recipe to make a crafty, delicious treat. Plus, with only a few simple ingredients that just need to be mixed together, it’s a low-stress, low-mess way to cook up creativity.

For a healthier version of a snack time superstar, Apple Nachos combine sweet apples like Honeycrisp, peanut butter and versatile, whole-fruit Sun-Maid Raisins. Naturally made with nothing but grapes and California sunshine, these sweet raisins have been trusted as a better-for-you snack for kids and grown-up kids alike since 1912.

With zero grams of added sugars, they give parents the confidence they need to choose snacks that provide both great taste and nutrition for a happy and healthy family. As a household staple, they can be enjoyed as part of tasty recipes or as a standalone treat kids crave and parents approve.

Find more sweet ideas to inspire confidence and creativity at sunmaid.com.

Gimme S’mores Trail Mix

Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1/2 cup Sun-Maid Vanilla Yogurt Covered Raisins
• 3 cups graham crackers, assorted flavors
• 1 1/2 cups colored mini marshmallows
• 2 cups slivered almonds
• 1 cup chocolate chips

1. In large bowl, mix raisins, graham crackers, marshmallows, almonds and chocolate chips.
2. Serve immediately, or store in airtight container up to 1 week.

Photo provided

Apple Nachos

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 minute
Servings: 4

• 5 sweet apples, such as Honeycrisp
• lemon juice (optional)
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1/2 cup Sun-Maid California Sun-Dried Raisins

1. Wash and slice apples.
2. Arrange one layer of sliced apples on serving plate. To keep apples from browning quickly, squeeze lemon juice on top, if desired.
3. In microwave, melt peanut butter about 30 seconds until smooth.
4. Drizzle 1 tablespoon peanut butter over first layer of apples. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup raisins.
5. Repeat with remaining apples, peanut butter and raisins.

SOURCE:
Sun-Maid Raisins

Recipe | Pesto Pasta Salad

Family Features - From salads and snacks to breakfast, lunch and dinner, rounding out a full menu of healthy meals shouldn't be a chore. In fact, you can still enjoy your favorite flavors and tickle your taste buds with nutritious recipes that capitalize on powerful ingredients you actually want to eat. Starting the new year with fresh intentions, whether you're trying to reset for 2023 or simply add more greens to your meals, begins with delicious, nutritious and easy recipes.

This recipe is another fresh twist on pasta salad can make lunches or your evening side dish an enjoyable way to stay on track.

With more than 100 varieties of fresh, healthy and convenient ready-to-eat salads, Fresh Express provides plenty of inspiration, information and incentives to help you achieve your goals. For example, this Pesto Pasta Salad features red lentil rotini and Twisted Pesto Caesar Chopped Salad Kits loaded with a fresh blend of crisp iceberg and green leaf lettuces, crunchy garlic brioche croutons, Parmesan cheese and creamy pesto dressing. Add fresh grape tomatoes and toasted walnuts for a simple side or easy lunch that can be made ahead of time.

Pesto Pasta Salad

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6

Here's what you'll need:

1 quart cooked red lentil rotini

2 packages (9 1/2 ounces each) Fresh Express Twisted Pesto Caesar Chopped Salad Kits

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup walnuts, toasted

Prepare red lentil rotini according to package directions; cool 15 minutes.

In bowl, mix rotini and one dressing packet from salad kits. Sprinkle with salt and pepper; mix well. Refrigerate, covered, 30 minutes, or until rotini is cold.

In large bowl, mix lettuce from both salad kits with remaining salad dressing package. Add rotini and tomatoes; toss to combine. Sprinkle with garlic brioche croutons and shredded Parmesan cheese from salad kits and walnuts.

Substitution: Traditional rotini can be used for red lentil rotini.

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Take your better-for-you eating plan from bland and boring to delightfully delicious by visiting Culinary.net and FreshExpress.com for more inspirational meal ideas.

Recipe | A healthy choice: Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls

Family Features - From salads and snacks to breakfast, lunch and dinner, rounding out a full menu of healthy meals shouldn't be a chore. In fact, you can still enjoy your favorite flavors and tickle your taste buds with nutritious recipes that capitalize on powerful ingredients you actually want to eat.

A fruit-forward breakfast is a nutritious way to start your morning, and a fresh twist on pasta salad can make lunches or your evening side an enjoyable way to stay on track. Bowls filled with grains, veggies and a favorite protein are all the rage, and this seafood-fueled version is no exception when you're craving a combination of your personal favorites.

Photo provided

No matter if you're searching for a healthy family dinner, a quick lunch at home or an easy idea to meal prep for the week ahead, these Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls are perfect for seafood lovers who also enjoy a hint of spice. Fresh, healthy and full of deliciously prepared shrimp, these bowls are also loaded with mushrooms, peppers and cucumbers.

The homemade sauce is light with a sweet yet spicy vibe. Resting over a cup of steamy quinoa for a filling base of healthy grains, it's a quick and easy recipe you can customize with favorite toppings like sesame seeds and cilantro.

Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls

Serves 2

What you'll need:

1 cup quinoa

1 cup orange juice

1 tablespoon hot sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon soy sauce

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 tablespoon white miso

1 1/2 pounds shrimp, peeled, deveined and tails removed

1/4 cup butter

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cucumber, sliced into half moons

5 green onions, sliced

1 avocado, sliced

1 teaspoon sesame seeds

2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

How to put it altogether:

Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.

In medium bowl, whisk orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice and miso until combined. Pour 1/4 of liquid into separate bowl. Set aside.

Add shrimp to remaining mixture and marinate 15 minutes.

Heat large skillet over medium heat with butter. Add shrimp, salt and pepper. Cook 2 minutes on each side until pink. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.

In two serving bowls, divide quinoa, bell pepper, cucumber, onions, avocado and shrimp. Sprinkle sesame seeds and cilantro over both bowls.

Drizzle with reserved dressing.

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Find more wholesome, health-forward recipes at Culinary.net.

Recipe | Jalapeno Sweetpotato Chowder

Photo provided

Family Features - Colder, shorter days call for a little comfort. Cozying up with a hearty meal on brisk winter evenings can help fight off the chill while savoring favorite flavors alongside the ones you love.

Avoid venturing into the cold for a trip to the store by turning to a pantry staple like sweetpotatoes. As one of the most versatile veggies, they’re easy to add to a variety of recipes while enhancing both flavor and nutrition. Perfectly suitable for both simple and elevated dishes, they can be baked, microwaved, grilled, slow cooked or prepared on the stove so their sweet taste never goes out of style.

Their long shelf life – up to four weeks if stored properly in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources – means you can rely on sweetpotatoes throughout the winter as an on-hand ingredient. Additionally, as a "diabetes superfood" according to the American Diabetes Association, they’re rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, all of which are good for overall health and may help prevent disease, making them a key source of nutrients during wintertime.

When your family needs a warm-up on those frosty days, put sweetpotatoes at the center of mealtime (with an added kick) in this Jalapeno Sweetpotato Chowder. Loaded with the flavors of winter comfort, you can breakaway from the store-bought canned soups for a filling meal that makes enough for a crowd so no one goes hungry.

Jalapeno Sweetpotato Chowder

Recipe courtesy of the North Carolina SweetPotato Commission

Servings: 6

2 large North Carolina sweetpotatoes, baked
1 small onion, 1/4-inch diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 quart chicken or vegetable stock
2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
1 1/2 cups whole corn kernels
2 teaspoons minced jalapenos
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
chopped scallions, for garnish

How to make it

Peel baked sweetpotatoes; discard skin and puree.

In soup pot, saute onion in butter until softened. Add pureed sweetpotato and stock, as desired. Bring to boil, reducing liquid slightly.

Add chicken, corn, jalapenos, heavy cream and salt. Simmer 10 minutes.

To serve, ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions.

Watch the video

Recipe | Pomegranate Cheesecake

Dishing out a dessert that boasts the colors of the season is a perfect way to cap off a gathering of friends and family or a delicious holiday meal.

With pops of red and deliciously sweet flavor, Pomegranate Cheesecake is ideal for serving in individual tins so guests can delight in the creamy deliciousness together without the hassle of cutting and serving.

Developed to capture the taste of dairy cream cheese, it’s designed to be enjoyed by everyone at the table this holiday season as a non-GMO solution free from dairy, soy, nuts, gluten, preservatives and lactose.

Pomegranate Cheesecake

Prep time: 5 hours, 30 minutes
Servings: 6 individual cheesecakes

Crust:

• 10 1/2 ounces vegan gingerbread biscuits
• 6          ounces plant-based butter
• 1/4       teaspoon salt

Cheesecake:

• 0.07     ounces agar-agar
• 3 1/2    ounces canned coconut milk
• 2          packages Violife Just Like Cream Cheese Original
• 2          tablespoons maple syrup
• 1          tablespoon lemon juice
• 1          teaspoon vanilla essence

Pomegranate Syrup:

• 10        fluid ounces pomegranate juice, divided
• 3          tablespoons cornstarch
• pomegranate seeds, for garnish

1. To make crust: In blender, blitz gingerbread biscuits until they form powder. Add butter and salt; blitz again until combined.
2. Place in six individual greased tart tins and smooth over base with back of spoon. Refrigerate to set.
3. To make cheesecake: In small pot over low heat, dissolve agar-agar in coconut milk, whisking constantly. Once boiling, remove from heat and set aside.
4. In large bowl, mix cream cheese, maple syrup, lemon juice and vanilla essence; slowly pour over warm coconut milk, whisking until combined and creamy. Divide evenly among tart tins and refrigerate 4 hours.
5. To make pomegranate syrup: In small bowl, combine 3 fluid ounces pomegranate juice with cornstarch. In small pot, boil remaining pomegranate juice 5 minutes. Pour in cornstarch and pomegranate mixture; whisk 5 minutes until syrup forms. Cool.
6. When cheesecakes have set, remove from tins and serve on plates. Pour pomegranate syrup on top and garnish with pomegranate seeds.

Visit ViolifeFoods.com to find more holiday-worthy recipes.

Recipe | Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Family Features - Memories made and recipes shared are the trademarks of a successful holiday gathering, and this year, you can host your way to a practically perfect party with delicious dishes that resonate with the flavors of the season.

If you and your family enjoy mushrooms dishes or you are looking for a cozy meatless meal to impress holiday guests, then this recipe is for you.

This could be a family-favorite in your house. Start your meal with a main course that looks and smells as good as it tastes. Creamy Mushroom Pasta Nests deliver that festive flavor with a robust blend of breadcrumbs, earthy mushrooms and a homemade sauce crafted with Violife Just Like Cream Cheese. Developed to capture the taste of dairy cream cheese, it’s designed to be enjoyed by everyone at the table this holiday season as a non-GMO solution free from dairy, soy, nuts, gluten, preservatives and lactose.

Serve with a fresh tossed salad and warm bread for a memorable meal.

Visit ViolifeFoods.com to find more holiday-worthy recipes.

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Nests

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Marinade:

• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 3 1/2    ounces hoisin sauce
• 2          tablespoons sesame oil
• 1          tablespoon garlic chili paste
• 2          tablespoons black and white sesame seeds
• 1          teaspoon harissa paste

Breadcrumbs:

• 1          tablespoon Violife Plant Butter
• 1/2       cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1          tablespoon fresh rosemary
• 1          teaspoon dried garlic

Pasta:

• 17 1/2 ounces mushrooms, roughly sliced
• 2          tablespoons olive oil
• 10 1/2 ounces fresh spinach
• 1          package Violife Just Like Cream Cheese Original
• 17 1/2 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
• 1          teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3 1/2    ounces Violife Just Like Parmesan Wedge, grated

1. To make marinade: Whisk olive oil, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic chili paste, sesame seeds and harissa paste. Set aside.
2. To make breadcrumbs: In frying pan, heat plant butter. Add breadcrumbs, rosemary and garlic; saute 3-5 minutes until golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. To make pasta: Saute mushrooms in olive oil 5-7 minutes until golden. Add spinach, 2-3 minutes, and pour over marinade. Add cream cheese and whisk until creamy.
4. Boil pasta according to package instructions. Sieve and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, adding to pasta sauce. Whisk constantly until combined.
5. Using tongs, make small nests in pasta, place on plates and pour creamy mushroom sauce on top.
6. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs, red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan.

Recipe: Healthy and refreshing cucumber-grape salad

Photo provided

FAMILY FEATURES -- Your next snack or office lunch can get a boost of flavor from this Smashed Cucumber and Grape Salad, perfect for making ahead of time to pack along for whatever the day might bring your way.

As an easy, versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of recipes, grapes offer delicious taste, texture and color – plus a healthy boost – that make them an appealing addition to snacks and meals.

To find more good-for-you recipe inspiration, visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com.

Smashed Cucumber and Grape Salad

Servings: 6

1 1/4 pounds English or Persian cucumbers, ends trimmed

1 teaspoon kosher salt

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce

2 teaspoons granulated sugar

1-2 teaspoons chili oil

1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

1 cup halved grapes from California

2 scallions, thinly sliced

2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

Using rolling pin, lightly smash whole cucumbers to break open. Tear or cut cucumbers into 1 1/2-inch pieces and season with salt. Transfer to sieve and drain 10 minutes.

In large bowl, whisk vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, chili oil and sesame oil; stir in grapes and scallions.

When cucumbers are done draining, add to bowl with grape mixture and stir to combine. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 70 calories; 1 g protein; 11 g carbohydrates; 2.5 g fat (32% calories from fat); 0 g saturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 170 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.