Month: October 2016

Pumpkin Pie Bites

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Happy Halloween! We have a wonderful block to trick-or-treat on. Because of this, we  invite people over to hang out. There are plenty of snacks and beverages for both adults and children. I always make sure I have savory dishes and not so many sweet dishes. The kiddos will have enough sweets with the candy! I did however make these mini pumpkin pie bites to snack on. They turned out really yummy! A prefect little sweet treat for this fun-filled day! Have a safe one!

 -Tammy

Health tips: kid-friendly

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Corn and Crab Chowder

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This rainy weather is awesome! Such a great change to the hot summer weather of Southern California. It’s really beginning to feel like Fall around here and the more reason for soups…and more soups! This corn and crab chowder was inspired by many recipes, including my Mama’s. You’ll love the tasty flavors of this soup with a hint of creaminess. It calls for fresh crab meat so be on the lookout for deals at your local stores. I was able to snag almost a pound for less than $6! It takes some time to pull out the meat, but the fresh flavor is worth it!

 -Melanie

Health tips: Low fat, heart healthy, low carb

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Oktoberfest Beer Cheese Dip

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I love all things Oktoberfest! My birthday is in the beginning of October and so is Melanie’s. We usually try to kick off the October celebrations together by going to a local Oktoberfest…beer, sausage, and great company!  I was inspired by Melanie’s German Sausage and Barley Soup (Graupensuppe) and the Oktoberfest’s we ad been visiting, that I came up with this recipe. It has sausage, beer, and cheese-what’s not to like? And this would make a great party snack! It’s a cheat meal, but oh-so-worth-it!  Enjoy!

 -Tammy

Health tips: cheat meal

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Thai-Style Halibut with Coconut Curry Broth

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Thai coconut curry is one of my favorite exotic comfort food dishes, so as soon as I came across Ellie Krieger’s recipe, I just had to try it! It’s so simple and so delicious. I added a few of my favorite flavors like garlic, ginger and Thai basil, but pretty much kept it as it was written. The recipe is also very flexible. You can swap any type of seafood with the Halibut or if you’re not a seafood fan, can also use chicken. Either way you will really enjoy this!

 -Melanie

Health tips: Low fat, heart healthy, diabetes friendly, anti-inflammatory and low carb (without rice or noodles)

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Mini Meatloaves Nestled in Zucchini Noodles and Tomato Sauce

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Nothing says comfort food more than meatloaf! However,  just hearing the words comfort food makes me think of gut-busting food. But not this meal. I’ve lightened it up by making mini meatloaves rather than one giant one. And I nestled them in zucchini noodles and tomato sauce, rather than regular noodles. Protein and veggies makes this a healthy meal!  Enjoy!

 -Tammy

Health tips: diabetes-friendly, low carb, kidney-friendly, kid-friendly

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Chicken in Cheesy Poblano Sauce

Mel and Tammy1 Comment

This is one of my favorite Rachael Ray recipes, and great for a family dinner! The sauce is so creamy yet so fresh, with very very soft heat from the poblano peppers. I adjusted it to use lower fat ingredients to be able to enjoy it more often. I especially love the melted cheese on top. As long as you serve alongside some roasted veggies, it’s completely fine =)!

 -Melanie

Health tips: Low fat, heart healthy, diabetes friendly, low carb

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German Sausage and Barley Soup (Graupensuppe)

Mel and Tammy1 Comment

Fall is finally here woohooo! I am beyond excited for cozy soups, stews and casseroles. I’ve been researching for a delicious sausage recipe in honor of Oktoberfest, and came across this excellent soup on www.oliviascuisine.com. It’s a bit cooler in Southern Cali this week so I jumped on the opportunity! I just adjusted a bit by adding in kale for some extra vitamins and crumbled in the crispy bacon at the end. My family absolutely loved it…so tasty and hearty, yet still light. Enjoy this on a nice cozy night this Fall!

 -Melanie

Health tips: Low fat, heart healthy, diabetes friendly. anti-inflammatory, low carb

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