Heating things up; five tips to buying the right stove for your kitchen

StatePoint Media - Choosing the right slide-in range, (AKA “stove”) is essential for any home chef, and yours should not only cater to your cooking needs, but also complement your kitchen design. With the holiday season quickly approaching, now might be a good time to buy for delivery and installation after the new year.

“Navigating the many slide-in range options available today can feel daunting. That’s why it’s important to identify your must-have features before making a purchase,” says Peter Weedfald, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Sharp Home Electronics Company of America.

Not sure where to start? This range-purchasing guide offers five important factors to consider:

1. Size. A standard 30-inch slide-in range is a great option for most homes. If you’re looking for more cooking surface however, scale up to a 36-inch model. There are also 24-inch options for compact kitchens. Before making any purchase, measure the space to ensure the unit will fit, and that you can open the door.

2. Cooktop Surface and Fuel Source. There are three main cooktop surfaces to choose from: gas, radiant (electric) and induction. This decision can be influenced by the power source supply in your kitchen. If you have a gas line, you could choose any of the three, as long as there is also electric connectivity. If you don’t, consider a radiant or induction slide-in range. If you love the power from the open flame of a gas cooktop but desire the cooking capabilities of electric ovens, you can narrow your search to dual ovens. Helpful Hint: The cooking power measurement will indicate whether you’re dealing with gas or electricity. Gas ranges use BTUs (British Thermal Units) and electric ranges measure power output in watts.

3. Capacity. The interior capacity is the space within the range’s cavity. This is the oven. Knowing your cooking habits can help guide you in the right direction. While a standard slide-in range often offers enough capacity for an average-sized family, if you’re prone to entertaining crowds, a larger capacity like 6.1 or 6.3 cubic feet may better suit you. If you find yourself often preparing food at two different temperatures and cooking times, a dual oven may be your best bet.

Photo provided

4. Finish. Whether you’re curating your kitchen piece by piece or all at once, choose an exterior finish that fits your vision. Check out the oven’s interior cavity as well. You can make a statement with an unexpected pop of color here! The Sharp 30-inch Electric Convection Slide-in Range with Air Fry (SSR3065JS) offers a sleek edge-to-edge black glass exterior paired with a cobalt blue interior. If you prefer a more neutral, toned-down feel, keep it classic with a black or gray cavity.

5. Oven Features. When prioritizing features, consider your cooking habits and needs. If counter space is a priority, the Sharp SSG3065JS is a family-size air fryer, so that is one less thing to take up your precious space.

The Sharp SSG3065JS has 34,500 BTUs of cooking power and a variety of cooking modes, including Pizza, Convection Bake/Roast, and Air Fry. The Sharp Slide-In Ranges SSG3065JS and SSR3065JS can help take the guesswork out of cooking meat. Both ranges have built-in precision probe thermometers that automatically turn off the oven when the internal food temperature reaches the programmed setting.

Learn more about slide-in range cooking features and design choices by visiting shop.sharpusa.com/products/ranges.

“When curating your dream kitchen, the ultimate goal is finding a range that looks great in your space and can help you bring your culinary creations to life,” recommends Weedfald.

Easy-Peazy recipe: Enjoy classic Buffalo Chicken Wings at home

StatePoint Media -- It is time for the Illinois high school football playoffs, and there’s only one thing to make game day a bigger win: delicious game day food!

Looking to add some kick to kick-off before or after St. Joseph-Ogden or Unity's first-round home playoff game this Saturday? Take flavor and heat off the bench and put them into the game with these recipes from Frank’s RedHot, America’s number one hot sauce. Whether you’re tailgating at the game or hosting a postgame party at home, Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce, made with a premium blend of aged cayenne peppers, is a must-have ingredient.

Photo provided

Make your own delicious chicken wings for your next game day feast.

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Classic Buffalo Chicken Wings

If you’re someone who agrees that no tailgate or watch party is complete without wings, you’re in good company.

According to Chef Jordan Carfagno of Frank’s RedHot, chicken wings are the brand’s most searched recipe during football season. And it’s no wonder, Frank’s is the original Buffalo wings sauce flavor. Anyone looking to kick their wings up a notch can try this mouthwatering recipe for a classic take on wings, and it can be made in the oven at home, or in an air fryer if you’re tailgating.

Ingredients:
• 1/3 cup butter, melted
•1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce
• 2 and 1/2 pounds chicken wing pieces

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Mix butter and RedHot Sauce in medium bowl; set aside.

2. Arrange wings on large foil-lined pan. Bake on lowest oven rack for 30 minutes or until crispy, turning once.

3. Toss wings in sauce mixture until well coated. Serve with blue cheese and celery, if desired.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Chef Carfagno says dip recipes are gaining popularity this year, and this spicy creamy Buffalo chicken dip is the MVP of them all. Make it in the oven at home or plug in an instant pot or slow cooker for on-the-go prep.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cups Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Spoon into a shallow 1-quart baking dish.

2. Bake 20 minutes or until mixture is heated through; stir. Sprinkle with green onions, if desired, and serve with chips, crackers and cut up veggies.

Check out franksredhot.com for more game-day recipes and inspiration.

This football season, bring your A-game to your tailgate spread by adding the perfect blend of flavor and heat to classic fan favorites.

Recipe: Irresistible Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib Ragu

Photo provided

Family Features -- Avoid dinner reservations and unseasonably cold temperatures this Valentine's Day with a delicious, romantic date-night dining that doesn't take you any further than your own kitchen. You don't have to be an accomplished chef to set the table for a memorable romantic dinner at home. You can take inspiration from simple, quality Italian dishes anytime to celebrate the link between food and love.

As with this and two other of our favorite recipes show, a romantic meal can be ready in minutes or, like a great love story, simmered to perfection. To plan the ultimate date night at home, start by choosing one of these dreamy main dishes made with a mouthwatering sauce. Whether you make the Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib Ragu featured below, or the Italian Sausage, Spinach & Tomato Rigatoni, or the Creamy Italian Garlic Chicken, your romantic candlelit dinner will be one fondly remembered for years to come.

Flavorful sauces make a great Italian meal, but the sauce doesn't need to be made from scratch (at least, not completely). For example, Bertolli d'Italia sauces are made in Italy for authentically delicious flavor. They are crafted with tomatoes vine-ripened under the Italian sun, finely aged Italian cheeses, fresh cream, and Mediterranean olive oil. The result is a sauce that's perfect for your date-night meal.

Once you select your main course, prepare a simple salad of greens with a drizzle of Italian vinaigrette or Caesar dressing.

There is nothing better than a loaf of bakery-fresh Italian or focaccia bread warmed in the oven served with butter or olive oil for dipping. If you're so inclined, cap off the meal with a classic Italian dessert from your local bakery, like tiramisu, cannoli, or a creamy panna cotta topped with fresh fruit.

Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib Ragu

Prep time: 25 minutes / Cook time: 3 hours

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs

salt, to taste

ground black pepper, to taste

1 stalk celery, chopped

1 large carrot, peeled and finely diced

1 small onion, chopped

8 cloves garlic, finely chopped

4 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup red wine

4 sprigs fresh rosemary

2 sprigs fresh sage leaves, chopped

8 sprigs fresh thyme

2 bay leaves

1 jar Bertolli d'Italia Marinara Sauce

2 cups beef bone broth

water

24 ounces pappardelle pasta or preferred pasta

freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions:

Heat oven to 350 F.

In 5-quart Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season short ribs with salt and ground black pepper, to taste. Place one layer of short ribs in pot. Set remaining ribs aside.

Cook ribs 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to plate and set aside. Repeat with remaining short ribs.

Add celery, carrots and onion to pot used to brown ribs. Stir and cook until vegetables are browned, about 15 minutes.

Add garlic and stir 1-2 minutes. Add tomato paste. Cook 2-3 minutes.

Carefully pour red wine into pot.

Stir and scrape any browned bits from bottom of pot. Cook 3-4 minutes until wine is almost completely absorbed into vegetables.

Add rosemary, sage, thyme and bay leaves to pot. Add sauce, bone broth and browned ribs. Cover pot and place in oven 2 1/2-3 hours, or until ribs are fall-apart tender.

Remove pot from oven. Transfer ribs to plate or cutting board. Remove and discard herb stems and bay leaves. Remove bones from ribs then shred meat into bite-sized pieces using two forks or tongs. Return shredded ribs to pot with ragu. Stir to combine. Set aside.

Bring large stockpot of water to boil. Boil pappardelle pasta until al dente. Add drained pasta to pot with beef ragu and toss until combined.

Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Find more romantic dishes perfect for sharing at Bertolli.com.

Seven benefits from cooking in cast iron pots and pans

Photo: Food Photographer|Jennifer Pallian/Unsplash

Cooking with cast iron pans can help you create delicious and healthy meals with ease. Iron pans are great conductors of heat. They heat quickly and maintain a consistent temperature throughout the entire cooking process.

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SNS - Cooking with cast iron pans is a timeless tradition that has stood the test of time for good reason. These durable, versatile pans offer a unique set of benefits that make them a top choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike. But what makes cast iron pans so special that you should start using them?

We did thorough research, and this article will explore the many advantages of cooking with cast iron and show you why you should make this timeless kitchen tool a part of your cooking arsenal.

The biggest advantages of cooking with cast iron pans
From their exceptional durability to their ability to retain and distribute heat evenly, cast iron pans are a kitchen essential that you won't want to be without. Whether you're searing a steak or baking a pie, cast iron pans can help you create delicious and healthy meals with ease.

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Photo: Andrew Spencer/Unsplash

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But what makes cooking with cast iron pans so special? We did a thorough investigation, and here are the top seven benefits that will make you instantly want to replace all of your cookware with their cast iron substitutes.

#1 Durability
One of the biggest benefits of cast iron pans is their exceptional durability. Cast iron is a very strong, heavy metal that can withstand high temperatures and constant use without showing signs of wear and tear. Unlike other types of cookware, cast iron pans can last for decades (or even longer!). Of course, with proper care and maintenance. This makes them a great investment for any kitchen, as they'll be a reliable, long-lasting tool for all your cooking needs.

#2 Affordability
Cast iron pans are also an affordable option for cookware, especially when compared to other high-end options such as stainless steel or copper. Plus, as we already mentioned, you won't have to replace them often as they're extremely durable. Additionally, many cast iron pans are available at a reasonable price, making them accessible to most budgets.

While some specialty cast iron pans can be expensive, basic pans are often quite affordable and are great for everyday use. Furthermore, cast iron pans are also often passed down through generations, which means that they can be an affordable option for those who inherit them.

#3 Better heat retention and distribution
Cast iron is a great conductor of heat, which means it can heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. This is especially useful for tasks such as searing, frying, and baking, where precise temperature control is essential.

The pan will also retain heat long after you take it off the heat source, allowing you to keep the food hot for longer. This is particularly useful when you need to finish a dish in the oven. You can transfer the pan directly from the stovetop to the oven without the need to transfer the food to another dish.

#4 Easy to clean
Contrary to popular belief, cast iron pans are actually very easy to clean. Unlike other types of cookware, cast iron doesn't require special detergents or cleaning agents. You can easily and quickly clean it with hot water and a stiff brush, even after you've just cooked your favorite red wine braised beef short rib ragu. After cleaning, it's important to dry the pan thoroughly and then oil it to prevent rust.

With proper care and maintenance, a cast iron pan can last for decades, and it will only get better with use. Therefore, make sure to find a great place for them in your kitchen, as this will also help you keep the space tidy. After all, every productive kitchen is neat and organized, so make sure to research hacks for a tidy kitchen, as they'll help you make the most of your space.

#5 Non-stick cooking surface
When seasoned properly, cast iron pans have a naturally non-stick cooking surface that's perfect for cooking delicate foods like fish and eggs. Over time, the oils used to season the pan will polymerize and fill in any small imperfections on the surface, creating a smooth, non-stick surface that's perfect for cooking without oils or butter. Additionally, the natural non-stick surface of cast iron pans is much more durable than other types of non-stick cookware, and it won't wear off over time.

#6 Flavor-enhancing properties
One of the unique benefits of cast iron is its ability to enhance the flavor of food. Cast iron pans can add a subtle, smoky flavor to foods that are impossible to achieve with other types of cookware. This is because cast iron can reach very high temperatures quickly. This allows it to create a Maillard reaction, a chemical process that creates new flavors and aromas in food.

This is particularly useful for meats and other proteins, as it helps to create a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It also allows you to cook at high temperatures, which is excellent for searing and caramelizing. Your grilled jalapeno cheddar meatballs will taste more delicious than ever.

#7 Versatility
One of the best things about cast iron pans is their versatility. They can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, and even over an open flame. This makes them perfect for a wide range of cooking tasks, from searing steaks to baking bread. They can also go from stove to oven, allowing you to sear and then finish cooking in the oven, a great way to cook a steak, for example. This versatility also makes them perfect for cooking a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. Cast iron pans can be used for making pancakes, cornbread, frittatas, and even desserts like cakes and pies.

Another great aspect of cast iron is that it can be used for both indoor and outdoor cooking. You can take it camping, tailgating, or even use it for a backyard BBQ. The cast iron pan is also great for cooking over an open fire, which can give you that extra smoky flavor.

In conclusion
As you can see, cooking with cast iron pans comes with plenty of benefits, and they are truly timeless kitchen essentials. From preparing your favorite creamy mushroom pasta to baking bread, there isn't a thing you can't prepare in cast iron cookware. And the best part is – that they can last for decades to come, and you can even pass them on as a family heirloom. Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, investing in a cast iron pan is a decision you won't regret.

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Photo: Thomas Park/Unsplash

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Make a small or your second kitchen more functional

StatePoint Media - Whether you live in tight quarters or like many Americans, have a smaller, secondary kitchen in your home, there are strategies for making the most of compact cooking areas, none of which involve compromising style or functionality.

Photo provided

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Use Smart Storage

Sneak in extra storage in unexpected places without contributing to kitchen clutter. Install pull-out cabinets. Use an over-the-sink dish drying rack. Mount a magnetic knife sheaf to your backsplash. Use a rolling storage cart that can be moved out of the way when needed, being sure to opt for one with a wooden top to boost your counter real estate. All these solutions will help free up more of your workspace, ensuring you have plenty of room to chop, mix and stir.

Go Multifunctional

Top-notch appliances don’t need to be huge to provide professional-style performance. It’s all about finding models that offer multifunctionality, such as the 30-inch Dolcevita Dual Fuel Range by the Italian brand, Lofra Appliances. A great example of a luxury range uniquely engineered to fit a smaller space, unlike other compact appliances of its size, this one ensures that you can get the aesthetics, powerful BTU output and oven capacity that larger ranges offer. Its convection oven offers nine programmable cooking functions so that you can defrost, grill and bake like a pro, no matter the size of your kitchen.

Get Creative

It’s a good idea to get a bit creative about where appliances will actually fit in your compact kitchen. For example, the 30-inch Wall Oven from Verona is only 24 inches tall, making it the perfect height for an under-the-counter installation. Pair it with a Verona 12-inch, 24-inch or 30-inch cooktop, which have minimal undercounter depth, for a great combination when space is limited.

If you need a second oven, Verona packs two multifunction ovens into one 36-inch range. Both ovens feature optimal amounts of space so you can fit anything from weekday dinners to the Thanksgiving turkey and all of the side dishes to go with it.

Both Verona and Lofra are exclusively imported by EuroChef USA. For more information, visit eurochefusa.com.

Build Upward

Don’t forget to think about your kitchen from a vertical perspective, too. This can help you maximize every square inch of the room. Add hooks to the upper areas of your walls, or even hang items from the ceiling. Put seasonal tools and ingredients up on the highest shelves and rotate them as needed. A small, foldable stepstool takes up almost no storage space but can help you reach those seldom-used items when it’s time.

A cozy kitchen is no cause for distress. Whether it’s throwing an elaborate dinner party or cooking for a busy family, you can get a lot done in your smaller kitchen with wise appliance choices and creative storage solutions.

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Kitchen Magic: How to take care of your cast iron pots and pans like a pro

Photo: Ernest Roy/Pixabay

Cast iron cookware has made a comeback in recent years, and for good reason. It's durable and inexpensive, plus it can be used for years without losing its effectiveness. Cast iron is also incredibly versatile. It can be used on the stovetop or in the oven and will retain heat well enough to keep your food warm after you take it off the stove. But there are some things that you should know before using cast iron so that your cooking experience remains pleasant.

Avoid washing cast iron in the dishwasher

Since this type of cookware is perfect for different recipes, you might be tempted to wash it in the dishwasher. However, caring for your cast iron cookware will require special treatment:

Avoid washing cast iron in the dishwasher.

Cast iron is very durable, and you can wash it by hand, but dishwashers are not kind to it. The high heat and harsh detergents can damage your cookware, causing rust spots or warping, making the pan unusable.

Try using a stiff brush to remove stuck-on food

 if you're looking for an easy way to clean up after cooking with cast iron. You can do it before wiping out any remaining residue with paper towels or kitchen cloths soaked in hot soapy water. Then, rinse any food particles left behind before drying thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Make sure to season it every few months

Seasoning is a coating of oil that helps prevent rust. It is essential to season your cookware regularly and renew it every few months or whenever you wash the pan.

Seasoning should be renewed after washing because soap removes the seasoning and leaves a sticky film behind, which can attract more dirt and dust than if there were no seasoning at all!

If you're feeling adventurous, try an off-the-shelf product like Barkeeper's Friend or Easy Off Oven Cleaner. Both are cornstarch-based cleaners that gently remove stubborn stains while adding another layer of protection against rust.

Use salt instead if you want to go natural with your cleaning methods. All you need to do is sprinkle some coarse salt on top of any stubborn food residue before heating some water over medium heat until it boils. Then, let everything sit for about 15 minutes so everything gets nice and softened before rinsing off again. Just make sure to do this once it's cool enough not to burn yourself. This should take care of just about anything except egg yolks.

Don't use soap on cast iron cookware

Since you can make everything from cooked dishes to homemade pizza with this cookware, you should know how to clean it. However, one of the biggest mistakes is using soap on cast iron cookware.

Soap can strip away the seasoning, leaving your pan vulnerable to rust. Not to mention it's easier for food to stick to it. If you're using a pan for sauteing meat or vegetables, it's best to wipe it down with oil after use instead of washing it with soap. The fat will help protect your pan from oxidation and keep it looking shiny!

Clean the surface of your cast iron with a sponge and water only

Hot water and a sponge are the best way to clean your cast iron cookware. Do not use soap or any other cleaning product unless you are trying to remove food residue from the pan's surface.

If so, scrub gently with soap and water and dry immediately after washing off all traces of soap from your cast iron pan.

You can also use a Scotch-Brite pad or steel wool. These products will help remove any burned-on food residue from your cast iron pan. Rinse the piece well with hot water, and then dry it thoroughly before storing. Store cast iron flat when it's not being used When you're not using your cast iron cookware, it's important to store it flat. If you need to set up your new kitchen after moving in, make sure to find enough place to store your cast iron cookware. If you keep it flat, it will prevent rusting and allow the oil that naturally builds up in the pan to seep back into the pores of the metal.

Don't stack your pans on top of each other – this will cause them to scratch and damage each other over time.

Make sure not to store it in an oven or microwave – the heat from these appliances can warp or crack the handles of your pans.

Don't put them in a dishwasher – the harsh chemicals used by most detergents are damaging for any cookware, but especially so for cast iron since they'll strip away any seasoning from previous uses as well as leave behind residue that may cause food sticking problems later on down the road.

Cast iron can last for decades if you treat it right

Cast iron cookware is durable, long-lasting, and versatile. It can be used on the stovetop or in the oven, over an open fire, and even under a broiler if you're feeling adventurous. Cast iron is also easy to clean – wipe it out with a paper towel when you're done cooking!

However, it's important not to get your cast iron too hot: never put any part of your body near direct heat while cooking with cast iron. This includes touching handles or lids. Keep these items away from anything that could cause burns when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods. As you can see, making food with this cookware has many benefits. Cast iron must be seasoned before use. This process creates a protective coating on its surface which helps prevent rusting over time. Also, it makes food stick less often than regular stainless steel pans do.

There's no need for soap or oil during washing up afterward either – just rinse under running water until all residue has disappeared. Then, wipe them dry with paper towels before storing them away.

Cast iron is an excellent investment for any kitchen. It's durable, lasts forever, and can provide delicious meals for years if you take care of it properly. We hope that this guide has helped you understand how to care for your cast iron cookware so that it will last even longer!

Every kitchen needs an assortment of cast iron cookware. Cooking with cast iron pans not only infuses iron into food, it enhances the natural flavor in our favorite warm food items.

Photo: Memoaaguilar/Pixabay

Game day gyros nachos

Using Greek gyros meat offers a unique, spicy tasting version of this popular bar appetizer and gameday snack. According to Wikipedia, Ignacio "Nacho" Anaya is credited with creating the dish in about 1943.

Gyros, originally made from lamb in Greece, is a delicious mixture of ground beef and lamb or lamb and chicken. The meat is high in calories and fat, and may not be idea if you're dieting. But, probably the three beers you have with this dish won't either.

A pan of takes about 15 minutes to make. Here's what you need to put together this awesome platter.

Ingredients

1 bag of Tortilla Chips
8 oz. of Cheese
1/2 to 1-lb Gyros Meat
2 Jalapenos Peppers
1 Large Tomato
1/2 Onion
1 Green Pepper
1/2 cup of Shredded Spinach
1 teaspoon of Olive Oil
Pinch of Black Pepper
Pinch of Salt

Directions 

1. Pre-heat oven to 300º.

2. Spread tortilla chips on a cookie sheet or in a baking pan. Line sheet or pan with aluminum foil for easy clean up later.

3. Chop/shred spinach in a small bowl, stir in olive oil and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Set aside for later.

4. Chop tomato, jalapenos, green pepper and onion. Mix all three vegetables into a single bowl.

5. Shred gyros meat and place a layer on top of the tortilla chips.

6. Next, add a generous layer of shredded cheese over the meat and chips.

7. Spread vegetables from the bowl on top of the pile.

8. Then, sprinkle a light layer of cheese over the vegetables.

9. Finally, sprinkle clumps of spinach evenly spaced around the pan or in the center of the pile of chips and veggies.

10. Put the pan in the oven and bake at 300º for 10 to 12 minutes or until cheese has melted.

11. Remove from oven and serve with sour cream or salsa.

Expert tip

1. You can get Kronos Authentic Gyros slices in a 2-pound box at Sam's Club. There are two bags in each box. One bag makes two to three trays. Use a sharp knife to shred meat.

2. Add black or green olives; black beans or re-fried; or Pico de Gallo for a tasty alternative.

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Do you have a favorite recipe you would like to share with our readers? Contact our editor at editor@oursentinel.com.

A monstrously delicious treat you will want to make this Halloween

(Family Features) - Among the scary decorations, unique costumes and fun parties, there’s perhaps nothing quite like sharing a wonderful homemade holiday treat at the office or sending a bags full to school with your kids to share with classmates on Halloween.

This year, you can add to the fun with a new annual activity by creating a delightful dessert with the help of little ones and adults alike. Start a new tradition to pass along to your next generation of trick-or-treaters. With an easy recipe like Peanut Butter Saltine Candy that calls for just a handful of ingredients, you can get the whole family involved in the kitchen.

Photo provided

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Ask your little helpers to measure out ingredients while a grownup prepares the pan and use the stove. Once the base is finished baking, call the kids back into action to sprinkle chocolate chips and peanut butter chips over the top.

After your candy creation is cooled, just break it into pieces meant to be shared with the entire family. An added benefit: all can enjoy the nutrient-rich flavor of peanuts, which rise to superfood status by delivering 19 vitamins and minerals and 7 grams of protein per serving.

Find more holiday recipes at gapeanuts.com.

Peanut Butter Saltine Candy

Yield: 45 pieces

Nonstick cooking spray (butter flavor)
1 sleeve (4 ounces) regular saltine crackers
1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups milk chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter chips
1/2 cup rough chopped, dry roasted peanuts

Preheat oven to 400 F. Line 10-by-15-by-1-inch pan with aluminum foil. Spray foil with nonstick cooking spray then lay saltines flat in single layer on prepared pan. Set aside.

In heavy duty, 1-quart saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, peanut butter and sugar. Stir constantly until butter and sugar are melted, bringing mixture to boil. Boil 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour cooked mixture over saltines and bake 5 minutes.

Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over saltines. Let cool 3 minutes then spread melted chocolate completely over saltines.

Sprinkle peanut butter chips evenly over chocolate. Return pan to oven 1 minute to soften chips. Pull pointed tines of fork through softened peanut butter chips to partially cover chocolate. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top, gently pressing into candy.

Let cool on rack about 15 minutes then place in freezer 3 minutes. Remove from freezer and break into pieces. Store in airtight container.

Food | Breakfast treat: Easy to make cherry coffee cake

(Family Features) There is nothing better than tasty pastry treat to go along with your morning coffee or hot chocolate. You can add some sweetness to your breakfast routine with this no fuss, no mess recipe. This delicious, easy-to-make Cherry Coffee Cake can be served for dessert, too. Just add ice cream or whipped cream on top to make that food coma even more enjoyable.

What's great about this recipe is it requires almost no prep time and requires just three ingredients. Throw it together, pop it in the oven and it's ready by the time you've finished your morning shower. How easy is this to make? Check out the video. Find more breakfast recipes like this at Culinary.net.

Cherry Coffee Cake

Here's what you will need:

Nonstick cooking spray
1 can (12.4 ounces) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
1 1/2 cups (21-ounce can) cherry pie filling
1/2 cup slivered almonds or pecans (optional)
Now put it all together: First, heat your oven to 375º F. Spray 9-inch round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Next, separate cinnamon roll dough into eight rolls. Cut each roll into quarters and place dough rounded-side down in pan.

Spoon pie filling over rolls. Then sprinkle almond slivers or pecans over cherry filling, if desired.

Depending on your oven bake between 25-35 minutes, or until golden brown.

While still warm, placed a plate or cutting board over the pan and flip so that the pastry fall out. Place your serving plate on top of the upside down rolls and invert again.

Remove lid from icing and microwave the contents for 3-10 seconds until the mixture is creamy. Stir icing and drizzle over warm coffee cake.

Serve warm.

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Did you try this recipe? Tell us in the comment section below how it went for you.

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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Get things poppin' with this Cranberry-Orange Carmel Corn treat

What can we say? This looks absolutely delicious.

Sure, a bowl of popcorn with lots of salt and butter is great, but let's be real. You gotta mix it up once in a while and this Cranberry-Orage Carmel Corn is a pretty doggone tasty convergence of Carmel corn, nuts, and cranberries.

This recipe, courtesy of the Popcorn Board, is merely the base. You could substitute walnuts or peanuts in place of the almonds or use all three. Another idea: Dried apricots, apples, or raisins can be used in place of cranberries. Let your kitchen creativity flow and come up with your own signature family movie night snack.

This recipe makes a great personalized gift item, too. Fill a glass canning jar with a batch and wrap with a ribbon. Give as a simple, tasty gift to a fellow employee, your child's favorite teacher, or a gift for graduating players on senior night.

Plain or carmelized, this popcorn treat will last a week or so in an airtight container. If your home is anything like mine, I doubt it will last long.

Photo courtesy of the Popcorn Board

Cranberry-Orange Carmel Corn

Time: Figure about an hour total for start to finish
Makes: 10 cups

Ingredients

10 cups popped popcorn

1 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup whole almonds

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter

1/2 packed brown sugar

1/4 cup corn syrup

2 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate, undiluted

1 teaspoon orange or vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Directions

Go ahead and preheat the oven between 250 - 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

While the oven is warming up pop popcorn and remove all the seeds. Put in a large bowl with cranberries and almonds; set aside.

In a medium saucepan heat butter, brown sugar, corn syrup and orange juice concentrate over medium heat until butter is melted.

Bring to a boil and boil 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in extract and baking soda (mixture will foam).

Pour syrup mixture over popcorn mixture in bowl; stir to coat well. Spread evenly in a large, rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, lined with foil and sprayed with nonstick spray.

Bake 30 minutes, stirring twice during baking time. Stir caramel corn as it cools on baking sheet or a cookie sheet covered with aluminum foil.

Store in an airtight container.

Did you make a batch? Send us your photos and we'll feature them below.

Food: Tempt guests with this Apple Oat Crumble treat

(Family Features) -- Entertaining guests during the holidays isn't just about a main course that calls all to the table. What often makes a festive gathering more fruitful is a spread of delicious appetizers, delightful drinks and divine desserts that keeps everyone coming back to the kitchen for more.

Photo provided

For appetizing dishes from the first guest at the house to the last out the door, you can heighten the flavor and appearance of favorite recipes with one simple ingredient: apples. Ranging from tart to sugary sweet, finding the right balance for your palate is key. Scent can also influence taste, especially when you have a balanced sweetness with an uplifting, fresh aroma.

Turn to an option like Envy Apples this holiday season for satisfying texture and taste with a consistently balanced, refreshing sweetness coupled with a crisp, elegant crunch. They make for an easy snack when eaten fresh out of hand but are also perfect for holding over pre-dinner appetites in small plates like Bell-Issimo Brie Melt or Apple Stuffing Bites with Rosemary Gravy.

The versatile flavor of apples isn't just limited to foods, however. For the adults in the room, Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider with a splash of bourbon is a seasonally appropriate way to quench thirst and break the ice. Simply omit the bourbon for a kid-friendly version so the whole party can savor a sip.

Easy to spot with their crimson red skin over a golden background that practically glows, Envy Apples offer an easy, eye-catching way to try new tastes and celebrate joyful occasions together. The bright white flesh is naturally slow to brown when sliced for a fresher flavor in sweet treats like Apple Oat Crumble and Citrus Caramel Topping for a tasty way to elevate your holiday get-togethers.

Find more sweet holiday recipes at EnvyApple.com.

Apple Oat Crumble and Citrus Caramel Topping

3 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 Envy Apples, diced into large cubes
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup cold butter, diced small
1/2 cup caramel
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 orange, zest only
1 tablespoon orange juice
vanilla ice cream

Preheat oven to 350 F.

In bowl, stir together sugar and ground cinnamon.

Toss apples in lemon juice then in cinnamon sugar mixture. Spread in 9-inch pie dish.

In another bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour and oats. Using hands or fork, cut in butter until pea size crumbs form. Sprinkle evenly over apples.

Bake 40-45 minutes until mixture is bubbling and golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool 15 minutes.

In small pot, whisk caramel, salt, orange zest and orange juice until warm.

Spoon apple oat crumble over large scoop vanilla ice cream and top with salted citrus caramel.

Make this Easter holiday 'Eggstra' special

Photo provided

Family Features -- Easter is about traditions, both old and new, as well as celebrating family and creating lifelong memories. In fact, nearly 8 out of 10 Americans will celebrate the holiday this year, according to the National Retail Federation, which often includes egg decorating amongst the fun.

Decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back to the 13th century. Eggs were once viewed as a forbidden food to some religious entities, so people would paint or decorate them to highlight the end of penance and fasting.

Yet still today, coloring eggs can help bring the whole family together and inspire simple moments of connection and creativity. From dunking eggs in neon dyes to embellishing them with paint, glitter and more, PAAS(r) brand - named after the Dutch word for Easter, "Passen" - offers these expert Easter egg dyeing tips based on its 140 years of experience.

Keep It Clean - Wash your hands in hot, soapy water before and after handling eggs, even if they've already been cooked or decorated. This helps protect you from any bacteria that may be on the egg and protects the eggshell from oil on hands that may make the dye not adhere properly. Make sure an adult supervises all projects to ensure food safety precautions are observed.

Hard Cook, Don't Hard Boil - Although the cooking water must come to a full boil, the pan should be immediately removed from heat so the eggs can cook gently in the hot water. This method produces tender, not rubbery eggs and minimizes cracking.

Banish the Greenish Ring - This harmless but unsightly discoloration sometimes forms around hard-cooked yolks as a result of a reaction between sulfur in the egg white and iron in the yolk. It occurs when eggs have been cooked for too long or at too high a temperature. Cooking eggs in hot, not boiling water then cooling immediately helps minimize this discoloration.

Make Them "Apeeling" - To ensure easily peeled eggs, buy and refrigerate them 7-10 days in advance of cooking. This brief "breather" allows the eggs time to take in air, which helps separate the membranes from the shell.

Photo provided

Store Eggs Safely - In the shell, hard-cooked eggs can be refrigerated safely for up to one week. Refrigerating them in their original carton prevents odor absorption. Once peeled, eggs should be eaten that day. Piercing shells before cooking is not recommended. If not sterile, the piercer or needle can introduce bacteria into the egg. Also, piercing creates hairline cracks in the shell through which bacteria can enter after cooking.

Tap Into Your Creative Side - You don't have to be highly creative to create an "eggceptional" egg. Use your imagination to create appealing eggs by gluing on fun materials found at craft stores, like fake gems, sequins, trims and ribbons. You can also use paint, including gold or silver metallic paint, to make eggs special. An option like PAAS egg decorating kits can help make the process more convenient and fun.

Find more tips and ideas to bring your family together this Easter at paaseastereggs.com.

How to Hard Cook Eggs

Hard-cooked eggs are best when you want a sturdy egg for hiding and to eat when you're done. They are also easier for younger children to handle. Eggs can be hard-boiled or baked to achieve tender eggs perfect for dyeing. Consider these tips from the Easter egg decorating experts at PAAS to cook eggs for decorating:

Hard Boil Directions

Place eggs in saucepan large enough to hold them in single layer.

Add cold water to cover eggs by 1 inch.

Heat pan over high heat until just boiling.

Remove pan from burner.

Cover pan.

Let eggs stand in hot water about 15 minutes for large eggs. Time may need adjusted for smaller or larger eggs.

Cool completely under cold running water or in bowl of ice water.

Refrigerate until ready to use.

Baking Directions

Preheat oven to 325 F.

Place eggs individually in muffin tins to prevent them from rolling while cooking.

Cook 30 minutes.

Fill large bowl with ice water. Set aside.

Remove eggs from oven.

Transfer eggs carefully, one-by-one into ice water using tongs.

Remove from water after 10 minutes.

Refrigerate until ready to use.

Egg Decorating Kits to Make Egg Dyeing Easy

There's more than one way to dye an egg. To meet various needs and interests, PAAS offers a variety of kits, including:

Photo provided

Traditional Kits - Deluxe, Classic and Color Cup kits allow families to create a full spectrum of colored eggs.

Craft Kits - Craft kits help users create their own one-of-a-kind works of art, such as color whipping eggs, adding sparkles or speckles, or creating neon tie-dyed eggs.

Eggsperiment - Active Volcano - This kit allows users to dye eggs by lowering them into an overflowing volcano.

Craft-A-Scene - These kits, which come in multiple versions, offer not only dyes and decorations to create character eggs, but also different backdrops that can be used in stop motion movies using a free app.

Themed Eggs - These include Dino Eggs, Forest Friends, Rides and Superheroes kits that allow families to bring characters to life.

What's for dinner? Try BYO sausage foil packs

Photo provided

(Family Features) - Finding time for a family meal during fall means navigating busy schedules full of school, demanding jobs, fun social events, sports practices to pick up the kids from, girls' nights out, and side-hustles to explore. Squeezing in filling dinner together calls for an easy dish that takes less than an hour so you can catch up with loved ones or do the things to help you live life to the fullest.

Let your oven do the work for you with this Build-Your-Own Sausage Foil Packet Dinner recipe that requires just 10 minutes of prep before 30 minutes of baking, leaving you plenty of time to help little ones with homework. It all starts with Coleman Natural Uncured Polish Kielbasa, a traditional Polish sausage rope smoked and fully cooked so all you need to do is slice into 1/2-inch pieces and toss together with veggies and seasonings. You can feel good you are serving pork sourced from American family farms that raise their animals crate-free with no antibiotics or added hormones ever.

An added benefit of this simple recipe is that it’s customizable, allowing you to substitute your family’s favorite flavors to satisfy everyone at the table. Or, if your loved ones are easily pleased and open to a variety of ingredients, you can try different veggies each time so it tastes like a new dish over and over again.

Build-Your-Own Sausage Foil Packet Dinner
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

1 package Coleman Natural Uncured Polish Kielbasa, sliced 1/2-inch thick
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 ears corn, each cut crosswise into four pieces
2 large tomatoes, chopped
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, chopped into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Preheat oven to 425 F.

Cut foil into four sheets about 12 inches long.

Divide kielbasa, garlic, corn, tomatoes, onion and potatoes evenly over foil sheets. Drizzle with oil then season with salt and pepper, to taste. Toss gently to combine.

Top each packet with parsley and fold crosswise over kielbasa and vegetable mixture to completely cover food. Roll top and bottom edges to seal.

Place foil packets on baking sheet and bake 30 minutes.

Variations: Customize ingredients for personal preferences. Use broccoli in place of corn or substitute peppers for onions.

Visit ColemanNatural.com/Recipes to find more fall meal inspiration.

Scrumptious side dish, it sounds nutty good

(NAPSI) — Imagine this: A few small bites a day can help you manage your weight and reduce your risk of diabetes, gallstones, heart disease and cancer. It’s not some new miracle drug, it’s that long-time favorite of kids and adults alike — the peanut. You may want to try this simple, scrumptious side dish for your next Sunday dinner.

Peanuts are a superfood because just a small handful delivers 19 vitamins and minerals that contribute to your overall good health. Large population studies show that small amounts of peanuts and peanut butter in your daily diet can help reduce the chances of developing a chronic disease.

There is more good news. If you don't suffer from nut allergies, peanuts are both tasty, versatile and you can enjoy them in a variety of delicious dishes that are easy enough to make.

You'll need about two hours to throw this together so plan accordingly and enjoy eating your way to better health.

Peanut Butter Sweet Potato Casserole with Peanut Streusel Topping

Prep time: 25
Cook time: 1 hour 30 mins
Total: 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 10

For the sweet potatoes:

3 pounds sweet potatoes
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
¾ cup low fat milk
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
¼ cup peanut flour or powder

For the topping:

2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup finely chopped roasted, salted peanuts

Preheat the oven to 425°F and wash the sweet potatoes. Lightly prick the skin of each potato with a fork and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and cooked through. Allow to cool then peel. 

Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. 

Place the peeled sweet potatoes in a large bowl and mash well. Add the sugar, vanilla, eggs, milk, peanut butter, and peanut flour/powder and mix until smooth. Spread evenly into the prepared baking dish. 

To make the streusel, combine the melted peanut butter, brown sugar, and all-purpose flour in a small bowl. Press the mixture together using the back of a spoon. Keep pressing and mixing until the mixture is combined and crumbly. Add the peanuts and mix well. Sprinkle the topping over the sweet potato filling and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the center is mostly set. Serve hot. 

Per Serving: 363 calories, 10.7 g fat, 2.1 g saturated fat, 38 mg cholesterol, 141 mg sodium, 60 g carbohydrate, 7.7 g fiber, 18.1 g sugar, 10.6 g protein, 65% vitamin D, 5% calcium, 12% iron, 27% potassium.

For more recipes plus facts about how peanuts can help your short- and long-term health, from the experts at The Peanut Institute, visit https://peanut-institute.com/recipes/.

Food | Kick it up a notch for dinner with Buffalo Veal sandwiches

(Family Features) -- Figuring out what to eat at home after a high school baseball or softball game can seem like a tall task. If you pandemic menu is stagnate and in a rut, why not try serving your hungry family a delicious buffalo veal sandwiches.

On those busy evenings when brainstorming a meal the whole family agrees on seems like a tall task, turning to a versatile protein can open a bevy of options. The next time your loved ones are stuck in a dinnertime rut, discover the versatility of veal to present a list of new meal possibilities.

Veal, meat from a male calf up to 16 to 18 weeks old. These calves are traditionally considered a byproduct in the dairy industry since they cannot contribute to actual milk production. The calves are raised separately and fed any grains or grass to give their meat a delicate texture and pale color. The age and the way the young calves are fed makes a difference in the meat. Beef, the red meat from older animals, is dark and redder in color.

Milk-fed veal from calves up to 12 months old is more delicate than veal from formula-fed calves up to 4 months old. Veal also has no marbling, and the small amount of fat covering is firm and white.

Pairing your favorite traditional mealtime flavors with veal can allow you to uncover family-friendly dishes with familiar taste. Add excitement to your weekly menu with a recipe like these Crunchy Buffalo Baked Veal Cutlet Sandwiches, which offers the classic combination of Buffalo sauce and blue cheese in a dish that requires less than an hour in the kitchen.

Thin veal cutlets are dredged in flour, hot sauce and breadcrumbs before hitting the oven. Once baked, the cutlets are added to your favorite type of roll and topped with blue cheese broccoli slaw and as much additional Buffalo sauce as you desire for a flavor-packed meal your loved ones can savor together.

Crunchy Buffalo Baked Veal Cutlet Sandwiches

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

1 package broccoli slaw
1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup flour
4-6 tablespoons butter, melted
1/3 cup Buffalo-style hot sauce, plus additional for serving, divided
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
3/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
8 veal cutlets, pounded about 1/8-inch thick
4 sub rolls

Preheat oven to 400 F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

In medium bowl, using tongs, lightly toss broccoli slaw and blue cheese dressing.

In shallow bowl, stir together salt, pepper and flour.

In separate shallow bowl, whisk melted butter and hot sauce until combined.

In bowl of food processor, pulse panko and blue cheese crumbles until combined. Transfer mixture to plate.

Pat veal cutlets dry with paper towels. Dredge one veal cutlet in seasoned flour then coat with hot sauce and butter mixture. Place cutlet on top of panko blue cheese crumbs and gently press down to coat one side. Turn cutlet over and press down again gently to coat, including edges. Place on prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining cutlets

Bake 10-15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160 F.

Cut rolls in half, add two cutlets per roll, top each with broccoli slaw mixture and drizzle lightly with Buffalo-style hot sauce.

The chef in your house can find more ways to discover veal’s versatility at Veal.org.

Food & Dining |5 simple tips to turn leftovers into new tasty meals

Photo: Andrea Piacquadio/PEXELS

BPT - No gathering would be complete without a feast. Sharing a meal with friends and family encourages conversation and bonding, not to mention the opportunity to show off your culinary skills. However, it's important to keep in mind that large meals can easily produce food waste.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans waste approximately 30%-40% of the food supply. When cooking for a large group — like a holiday feast — it's easy to overprepare and end up with more leftovers than you know what to do with.

During holidays, don't worry about wasting food. KitchenAid — the #1 mixer brand in the world* — is here to help you turn your holiday leftovers into new tasty meals. Try these five creative tips that can transform the dreaded leftovers into delicious dishes.

1. A hot meal to warm your bones

Gather leftover vegetables, meats and bones and throw them into a Dutch Oven. In no time, you'll have warm soup or stew to enjoy on those cold winter days. You can also make stock that you can freeze and use in dishes in the new year!

2. Easy and hearty handhelds

Leftover turkey and ham make for a great protein base for quick meals. Whether you have sandwiches, tacos or wraps on the menu, repurposing your holiday protein can be quick, easy, and delicious.

Just choose your favorite or mix and match! If you have leftover cranberry sauce or roasted sweet potatoes, these can also be great additions.

3. Taters for breakfast

Do you have loads of leftover mashed or sweet potatoes? Use these tasty spuds to create savory twists of breakfast staples like pancakes and waffles.

Grab your favorite recipe and use your KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer to incorporate these sweet or mashed potatoes into the batter. After cooking, consider topping with chives or even cranberry sauce.

4. Whip up a decadent dessert

Eggnog on its own is a decadent seasonal treat. If you have leftover cartons of eggnog after your family get-together, use your mixer to transform that eggnog into whipped cream.

This eggnog whipped cream will add a rich, creamy and spiced flavor to leftover pie slices — especially pumpkin pies. Also, consider blending eggnog into frosting to top any leftover holiday cookies.

5. Layer leftovers into a casserole

Casseroles are the perfect format for leftovers. Simply layer meat, gravy and veggies into an oven-safe dish, refrigerate and reheat the next day. You can even simplify the process by creating the casserole when you clean up after a holiday gathering.

Bonus! To make these and other dishes with ease, gift yourself The KitchenAid 2024 Design Series Stand Mixer in Evergreen. It's the perfect holiday appliance that makes cooking and baking simple and serves as an eye-catching kitchen decoration that you can appreciate year-round.

Follow these five tips that will help you reduce your food waste and hopefully inspire you to create leftover dishes in the new year. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com.

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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.

Food | Start your day with a slice of bacon banana bread for brunch

(Family Features) -- Warmer spring weather makes the season a perfect time for families and out-of-town guest to enjoy a relaxing brunch together.

From classic combinations like bacon and eggs to more extravagant offerings, a brunch spread offers a blank canvas for creativity and opportunities to enjoy your loved ones’ favorite morning noshes.

For your next brunch celebration, whether it’s a special occasion or just an excuse to spend time together, consider adding what may become a new family favorite to the menu. This Bacon Banana Bread recipe combines two morning meal classics in one easy-to-enjoy bite.

Plus, it’s made using Coleman Natural Bacon so you can feel confident you’re feeding your family all-natural pork sourced from American Humane Certified family farmers who raise their animals the way nature intended – 100% crate-free without antibiotics or added hormones. The preparation is simple (just 10 minutes in the kitchen) so you can put this dish together and catch up with loved ones while baking a sweet and savory snack.

Bacon Banana Bread

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 70-80 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Nonstick cooking spray
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup sugar
3 medium bananas, mashed
1/2 cup canola oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 slices Coleman Natural Bacon, cooked and cut into 1/4-1/2-inch pieces

Preheat oven to 325 F. Lightly grease 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, combine 1 cup flour, baking soda, baking powder and sugar. In separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, canola oil, eggs and vanilla extract.

Add banana mixture to dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

In small bowl, toss bacon and remaining flour until bacon is lightly coated.

Fold flour-coated bacon into batter. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.

Bake 70-80 minutes, or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean.

Cool in pan on wire rack 20 minutes before inverting bread onto wire rack to cool completely.

Cut and serve.

For more brunch recipe ideas, visit ColemanNatural.com.

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.