Category: lunch

Juicy Lucy Turkey Burger Sliders

Mel and TammyLeave a comment

What better way to enjoy a luscious All-American burger without feeling guilty about it, then with a slider right!? Yes…this recipe uses turkey, but it’s absolutely tasty and super juicy, without all the calories. Plus, portion control is key! And how can you resist that oozing cheese inside. I’ve also included a few of my favorite spreads to further pack on the flavor. Serve these up to your friends and family before football season is over!

 -Mel

Health tips: Low fat, heart healthy, kid friendly, diabetes friendly and low carb (without the bun)Read More »

Breakfast Toast

Mel and TammyLeave a comment

Sometimes I want something sweet for breakfast and sometimes I want something savory. Either way, I try to have a healthy, filling breakfast to start my day. I like balance and my  breakfast toast with a hardboiled egg is the perfect savory breakfast to start my day.

 -Tammy

Health tips:  diabetes friendly, kidney friendly*, low carb

Read More »

Shrimp Scampi and Warm Artichoke Arugula Salad

Mel and TammyLeave a comment

Did I mention I love Italian food?! =) Shrimp Scampi is one of those traditional, luxurious dishes that is a favorite among many. But often times, the rich sauce and pasta served alongside, makes you feel guilty after devouring it all. Here’s my fresh take on the favorite with a lighter sauce, served alongside some tasty greens that you can feel good about. You will not miss the flavor of Scampi and I feel like it’s just as comforting with the warm salad. After all, the best part is the shrimp, and they’ll be an even bigger star in this dish! Topped off with some nutty parmesan cheese, you won’t be missing that extra butter and pasta!

 -Mel

Health tips: Low fat, low carb, diabetes friendly, heart healthyRead More »

Slow Cooker White Bean, Chicken & Poblano Chili

Mel and Tammy2 Comments

I was inspired by the wonderful Rachael Ray for this delicious recipe. It’s a nice light change to the traditional tomato-based beef chilis, instead using white beans, chicken and poblano peppers for some kick. I cook it in the slow-cooker so I can set it and forget it, and then enjoy it on a cold night. So simple and comforting!

 -Mel

Health tips: Low fat, low carb, anti-inflammatory, diabetes friendly, heart healthyRead More »

Parmesan Crusted Roast Beef and Brie Panini

Mel and TammyLeave a comment

Leftovers…What to do with them? I know! Make a Panini! A delectable, full-of-flavor Panini! There are times when I have things leftover in my refrigerator that I need to use up. This was one of those times. But by all means, if you do not have these ingredients hanging around in your fridge, go out and get them and make my roast beef and brie Panini. Enjoy, it’s a cheat meal!

 -Tammy

Health tips:  cheat meal

Read More »

Macadamia Nut Crusted Chicken Salad

Mel and TammyLeave a comment

Hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving. I had a gut-busting great time with my family. Our day was filled with delicious food, good company, karaoke, and of course, lots of wine! And now that I have gained a few pounds; I wanted something a little lighter this week. I decided to make macadamia nut crusted chicken salad. Holy heck-a-roo, was it good! I could not scarf it down fast enough. I decided to make the chicken two ways (baked and fried); if you want it healthy or healthier, it’s up to you! Both were delicious. And the honey mustard dressing was oh, so yummy! Enjoy!

 -Tammy

Health tips:  kidney-friendly*, kid-friendly

Read More »

Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup

Mel and TammyLeave a comment

Thanksgiving leftovers have to be one of my favorite things about the holiday, especially when I’m lucky enough to snag some turkey! As you know, I love soups and this is in my top 3 along with Zuppa Toscana. I was inspired by Panera’s version of this soup, but you don’t have to feel guilty with this recipe. If you want to reduce cooking time, remember to soak wild rice before cooking about 2-8 hours. It’s staying pretty cool out, so sit back by the fire and have a bowl of this yummy goodness this week!

-Mel

Health tips: Low fat, heart healthy,

Read More »

Lasagna Rollups with Italian Turkey Sausage and Veggie Ragu

Mel and Tammy1 Comment

I was inspired by the Pioneer Woman for this recipe while watching her freezer meal episode and thought, what a clever idea, especially with how busy it is during the holidays. This recipe is so much fun and so practical at the same time because you’ll be able to enjoy, while also storing extra for later at the same time! I don’t have kids, but I think they would have a ball rolling these up with you! I added Italian turkey sausage for some extra substance and flavor, but you can also definitely keep it vegetarian.

-Mel

Health tips: Low fat, heart healthy, kid friendly

Read More »

Sriracha Tofu and Veggie Stir Fry

Mel and TammyLeave a comment

Ok, you must be thinking…Tofu, why? Is it good? Yes, it’s really delicious, and good for you. If you’ve ever doubted tofu, this recipe will change your mind! For those new to tofu, it’s a solid, healthy, soy-milk based protein also known as bean curd. When fried, it gives you the substance and bite of something similar to a meat. My husband Dane absolutely loves this recipe because it’s full of flavor and frying up the tofu makes it crispy and so yummy. Hey, I know it’s frying, but you have to reward yourself since all these ingredients are so healthy right? =) This recipe is also very flexible, if you don’t like tofu, you can substitute it for a lean meat, and you can pretty much throw in any leftover veggies you have in the fridge.

-Mel

Health tips: Low fat, vegetarian, heart healthy, anti-inflammatory, diabetes-friendly

Read More »

Warm Ravioli and Arugula Salad w/ Shallot Dijon Vinaigrette

Mel and Tammy1 Comment

This is one of my favorite recipes I found on eatingwell.com! It’s simple, clean and so very tasty. Yum Yum. You can enjoy the cozy flavor of ravioli but it’s also very light with the peppery arugula greens mixed in. Enjoy it as a potluck dish, a side, lunch or light dinner. Leftovers eaten cold the next day are delicious as well!

-Mel

Health tips: Low fat, vegetarian, heart healthy

Read More »