Lifestyles

(Family Features) Hosting is a big responsibility, especially during the holidays when the pressure is on to create a magical and memorable experience. Planning a menu and decorating for the occasion is just the start.

Hosting also means ensuring all dishes are cooked to perfection and kept warm until serving time, guests’ dietary needs are considered and table conversation topics are ready. Then, of course, there’s the post-dinner cleanup.

This holiday season, consider these tips to help tackle your hosting duties with grace and create an event you can enjoy, too.

Request RSVPs
Planning a party is even more complicated when you don’t know how many guests you’ll be entertaining. If you create a guest list and ask invitees to let you know their plans, you’ll have a better idea whether you should double your favorite dishes. You’ll also know who has special dietary needs and be able to plan a seating chart that puts everyone at ease. Be sure to include a date that gives guests a specific RSVP deadline and plenty of time for you to adjust your plans before the big day.

Meal Prep as Much as Possible
Get as much of the food preparation out of the way ahead of time as you can. Some dishes can be prepared and even cooked ahead of time so you’re just reheating, but you can also save a lot of time by organizing ingredients for the dishes that must be prepared the day of the event. A good rule of thumb: If it doesn’t have to wait until the day of the party, do it before. That frees up your time so you can handle any unexpected hiccups that arise without piling on more stress.

Simplify the Cleanup Situation
Rely on tried-and-true products that do the heavy lifting for you when it’s time to clean up after the meal. An option like Finish Ultimate Dishwashing Detergent cleans dishes in tough conditions, even without pre-rinsing, so you can focus on what matters during this time of year: spending more time with your loved ones. It removes tough stains like grease and cheese, as well as common holiday dishes like apple pie and mac and cheese. An added bonus: Since you don’t need to pre-rinse, you’ll save up to 20 gallons of water per dishwasher load.

Create Designated Spaces
Guests are likely to arrive with items in hand that need a place to go, like coats, shoes, handbags and gifts. Avoid clutter by determining ahead of time where you want to put these items. If you have a coat closet with space, that’s a good solution, but a nearby bedroom may also be an option. Especially if you’re hosting a potluck meal, be sure to plan ahead for where each course should go, with appetizer bars, dessert tables and a countertop with protective pads for warm foods.

Send Guests Off with a Parting Gift
A memorable event can be made even more so when guests have a token to take with them. Send everyone home on a happy note with a simple gift like a prewrapped holiday treat. Be sure to tuck these away someplace near the door so they’re a pleasant surprise you can access easily when guests begin to make their exits.

Find more ways to tackle holiday messes and make hosting duties a breeze by visiting finishdishwashing.com.

Post-Party Cleaning Tips

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially from your partner or children.
2. Prep your table the night before. Get sparkling dishes and glassware by using a product such as Finish Jet-Dry Rinse Aid, which assists in drying and helping your dishes shine when used in the rinse cycle.
3. Start by collecting trash and clutter. Throw trash away and create piles of items that need returned to their proper places. Remember that taking a few extra minutes to organize things like seasonal decor as you go can help make next year’s event easier.
4. Complete each job before moving to the next. Some prefer to tackle a room at a time while others prefer to finish a specific chore, like sweeping the floors throughout the house, before moving on.

Be realistic about what must be done before you sleep. Some tasks really do need immediate attention, like collecting and emptying glasses that could be spilled and safely storing leftover food. The rest can likely wait until after you get some rest.

Jalapeno Cornbread Mac and Cheese

Jalapeno Cornbread:

• 1/2 cup butter, melted, plus additional for greasing pan
• 1 cup medium grind cornmeal
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup corn
• 1/2 cup chopped jalapeno (about 2 large jalapenos)

Mac and Cheese:

• 1/2 pound dry macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter, plus additional for greasing pan
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 12 ounces shredded cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• pepper, to taste

1. To make jalapeno cornbread: Preheat oven to 400 F. Butter 8-by-8-inch baking pan.
2. In mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, 1/2 cup melted butter, corn and jalapeno.
4. Add half the liquid ingredients to dry mixture, stirring just until blended. Add rest of liquid and stir until just blended. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 30-35 minutes, or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Set aside to cool.
5. To make mac and cheese: Bring large pot of water to boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package directions. Drain under cold water and set aside.
6. Preheat oven to 350 F. Butter 9-by-9-inch square baking dish.
7. In heavy saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add flour and whisk over low heat 3-5 minutes, making sure not to brown.
8. Whisk in milk and cook over medium heat, whisking often until mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
9. Stir in mustard and cheese. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Add macaroni and stir until noodles are coated with cheese mixture. Pour mixture into prepared pan. Use back of spoon or spatula to even out mixture in pan.
10. Bake 25 minutes until mixture is bubbly.
11. Remove from oven, turn oven to broil and place rack on second from top. Break up about 1/3-1/2 of the cornbread into small pieces; place even layer of broken-up cornbread over top of mac and cheese. Put mac and cheese under broiler until lightly browned. Serve immediately with remaining cornbread or make ahead and warm before serving.

Tip: For spicier cornbread, keep some jalapeno seeds intact

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock (woman serving meal and family dining together)

SOURCE:
Finish

Hearty, filling, festive recipes to complement your main course

(Family Features) Don’t let turkey and ham have all the fun this holiday season. After all, you know your guests are likely to have plates piled high with all their favorite festive side dishes.

These hearty solutions are inspired by harvest season, offering comforting taste and mouthwatering flavors to make your holiday meal truly memorable. There’s nothing wrong with the classics – mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and the like – but these recipes from “Cookin’ Savvy” can give your gathering a special seasonal spin.

Discover more holiday recipes by visiting Culinary.net.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallow Sauce

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 6-8

• 1/4 cup avocado oil
• 1/2 stick butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 3 pounds sweet potatoes, sliced in circles

Marshmallow Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cups mini marshmallows, plus additional for garnish, divided
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

1. Heat oven to 400 F.
2. In bowl, mix oil, melted butter, garlic powder and onion powder. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Add sweet potatoes and coat well. In baking dish, line sweet potatoes around pan in circle. Drizzle with leftover oil mixture. Bake 40 minutes.
3. To make marshmallow sauce: In skillet, melt butter and 2 cups mini marshmallows. Remove from heat and whisk in cream. Place in bowl and add additional mini marshmallows for garnish.
4. Place sweet potatoes on serving platter in same lined up fashion as they were in baking dish. Serve with marshmallow sauce.

Note: Recipe can be doubled for large crowds.

Sprouts and Squash Roast

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 6-8

• 1/4 cup avocado oil
• 1/2 stick butter, melted
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 package (12 ounces) frozen Brussels sprouts
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen butternut squash
• 1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces
• 1 cup pecans
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup cranberries

1. Heat oven to 400 F.
2. In bowl, mix oil, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and thyme. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
3. Cut Brussels sprouts in half, if desired. Add brussels sprouts and butternut squash to oil mixture and coat well. Place on lined cookie sheet and bake 20 minutes.
4. In large bowl, mix bacon pieces, pecans, pumpkin seeds, cranberries and roasted sprouts and squash. Mix well and place in serving bowl.

Note: Recipe can be doubled for large crowds.

Herbed Wild Rice and Apples

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 6-8

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon minced onion
• 1 apple, chopped
• 2 packages (8 ounces each) long-grain wild rice
• 2/3 cup apple juice
• 1 package (2 1/2 ounces) real bacon pieces
• 1 tablespoon rosemary
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 2/3 cup pecans
• 2/3 cup cranberries
• garlic and herb cheese spread, for garnish (optional)

1. In skillet over medium heat, saute butter, onion and apple pieces. When apples soften, add rice, apple juice, bacon pieces and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Cook about 10 minutes.
2. In large bowl, mix pecans, cranberries and rice mixture. Place in serving dish and crumble herbed cheese on top, if desired.

Note: Recipe can be doubled for large crowds.

SOURCE:
Culinary.net

(Family Features) When it’s time for a sweet treat, look for seasonal goodies that complement fun fall activities. For example, reach for an option like whole-grain, fluffy and crisp popcorn which can be an easy, DIY snack.

Combine sweet and salty flavors to create something delicious to devour like delightful Down Home Apple Pie Popcorn.

To better serve a crowd, try these Perfect Picnic Popcorn Squares at your next family gathering or fall cookout with friends.

For more creative, DIY popcorn recipe ideas, visit popcorn.org.

Down Home Apple Pie Popcorn

Yield: 10 cups

3 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
8 cups popped popcorn
1 cup dried apple chips, broken into large pieces
1/4 cup toffee bits

Heat oven to 300 F. Whisk melted butter with vanilla. Toss brown sugar with cinnamon, allspice and nutmeg.

Toss popcorn with butter mixture. Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar mixture. Stir. Transfer to baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Sprinkle apple chips and toffee bits over top. Bake 15 minutes, or until toffee bits start to melt. Cool before serving.

Tip: Add chopped pecans for extra crunch.

Perfect Picnic Popcorn Squares

Yield: 12 squares

1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup reduced-fat peanut butter
3/4 cup raisins
8 cups air-popped popcorn
nonstick cooking spray

In large saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, brown sugar and peanut butter.

Bring to boil over low heat, stirring constantly; boil 2-3 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat.

In large bowl, combine raisins and popcorn; pour hot mixture over popcorn and toss carefully with wooden spoons until well-coated.

Spray 9-by-13inch baking dish with cooking spray; press popcorn mixture into pan and cool completely.

Cut into squares and serve.

(Culinary.net) Going door to door for candy and treats is part of many families’ Halloween traditions, and the routine almost always ends with a kitchen loaded with treats. When the spooky season comes to a close, consider these ways to use up those delectable goodies.

Take Some to Work
A tried and true classic. It’s likely you won’t be the only person in your office bringing in leftovers a few days after Halloween, but there’s a good chance you have coworkers without kids who may not be as tired of treats as parents.

Freeze It
Certain candies like chocolates freeze better than others, so be conscious of what you’re putting in the freezer. This method keeps your sweets better longer and allows you to use them as ingredients in baking desserts throughout the year, or you can simply thaw a few at a time for snacking.

Make Trail Mix
The traditional recipe calls for peanuts, raisins and small chocolate pieces, but you can take matters into your own hands with a creative hodgepodge of just about anything you’re left with after Halloween passes. Candy corn, pretzels, chocolates and other sweets are perfect for mixing up as a snack to put in baggies for work or school – just choose your family’s favorites and toss together.

Set It Out for Guests
Leftover goodies don’t have to be hidden in the pantry. Grab a small glass dish, fill it with wrapped fun-size candies and place it on an end table, kitchen island or anywhere guests often gather and would feel invited to take one.

Create a Sweet Pairing
Although it’s (probably) your kids’ hard work that led to an abundance of candies, you can enjoy the fruits of their labor. For adults who enjoy a sweet chocolate treat (even if it isn’t fancy) with a glass of red wine or spiked hot chocolate, there are few better ways to wind down after Halloween than with a boozy pairing.

Visit Culinary.net for more Halloween treats and recipe ideas.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

SOURCE:
Culinary.net

(Family Features) For a frighteningly fun time in the kitchen this Halloween, gather your family around the cauldron to create a sweet, spooky dessert. Tricks and treats may provide thrills, but a homemade concoction can be the star of your hauntingly happy evening.

This Ghostly Graveyard Cake takes imagination and creativity from everyone with tombstones, skulls and spooky icing daring all to try a bite. With looks this chilling, it’s a perfect treat to enjoy while watching everyone’s favorite scary movie.

Find more deliciously devious desserts at Culinary.net.

Ghostly Graveyard Cake

• 1          box chocolate cake mix
• 10        chocolate creme cookies
• 1          cup black melting chips
• 1          cup red melting chips
• 1          cup heavy whipping cream
• 3          cans buttercream icing
• 1          purple food coloring
• 1          black food coloring
• skull sprinkles
• tombstones and bones candies

1. Prepare cake mix according to package instructions in three 6-inch baking pans. Once baked, allow to completely cool outside of pans.
 
2. In zip-top bag, using rolling pin, crush chocolate creme cookies; set aside.

3. In separate small bowls, add black melting chips and red melting chips.
4. In microwave, heat heavy whipping cream 1 1/2 minutes. Pour half the mixture into one bowl of chips and other half into other bowl of chips. Stir until chips are completely melted; set aside.

5. After cakes cool, on cake board, add small amount of buttercream icing so cake sticks. Using bread knife, level cakes.
6. Place one cake on cake board and add thin layer of icing on top. Place second layer of cake on top and add thin layer of icing on top. Place final layer of cake on top and add thin layer of icing on top. Add thin layer of icing to entire cake. Freeze 15 minutes.
7. In small bowl, mix two parts purple food coloring to one part black food coloring. Ice cake with deep purple icing. Using grooved scraper, scrape along sides of cake. Using angled spatula, smooth top of cake.

8. Add skull sprinkles around edges of cake. Using piping bag with small opening at tip, drip black drip mixture around top edges of cake. Repeat using red drip mixture.


9. Add chocolate creme cookie crumbs to top of cake. Add tombstones and bone sprinkles to top of cake.
 
 
SOURCE:
Culinary.net

(Family Features) Four and a half years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, people are once again enjoying time with friends and family and doing their favorite things. However, the virus that causes COVID-19 keeps changing, so it’s still important to stay up to date on your vaccinations. Respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, are common during the fall and winter months. That’s why now is a good time to take care of yourself and your loved ones by getting the facts on the updated COVID-19 vaccines.   

“As the virus changes, we are learning more and more about how to protect people from COVID-19,” said Namandjé N. Bumpus, Ph.D., principal deputy commissioner at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “Getting the latest COVID-19 vaccine means your protection is as up to date as possible.”

Here is information about this season’s COVID-19 vaccines from the Risk Less. Do More. public education campaign:

Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19. Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 lowers your chances of getting very sick or being hospitalized. Some people who get the vaccines still get sick, but vaccination can make symptoms milder. This is important if you are over age 65 or have certain health conditions. Both can put you at a higher risk for serious or long-lasting health problems, such as Long COVID or even death from COVID-19. If you do get COVID-19, ask your doctor about treatment options to reduce your risk of severe illness.  

COVID-19 vaccines are regularly updated to keep up with the changing virus. The COVID-19 vaccines are updated based on the latest variants of the virus. The updated vaccines offer the best protection against the changing virus that causes COVID-19. Getting the latest vaccine boosts your immunity and lowers your risk of severe sickness.

Side effects for COVID-19 vaccines are usually mild and go away on their own in a few days. The most common side effects are soreness or redness at the injection site, headache or body aches, or fever. Severe side effects like anaphylaxis are rare, with about five adverse events per 1 million doses given.

Staying informed and getting this season’s COVID-19 vaccine – and encouraging loved ones to do the same – is one of the best things you can do to protect yourself and others this fall and winter. Knowing the facts about COVID-19 vaccinations can give you peace of mind and support a safer, healthier future for all. For more information, visit cdc.gov/RiskLessDoMore or talk to your doctor. 

If you think you have COVID-19, testing can help. All U.S. households are now eligible to receive four free COVID-19 test kits. Order them today at COVIDTests.gov.

The Impact of COVID-19 In Black and Hispanic Communities
For the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, people in Black and Hispanic communities were consistently more likely to get COVID-19, need medical or hospital care, and die from COVID-19 than people in other communities. That gap has narrowed over time, but this past summer, Black people were still more likely to be hospitalized for COVID-19 compared to the average across all races and ethnicities combined. Hispanic people had lower than average rates of hospitalization. For everyone, getting the latest COVID-19 vaccine offers the best protection against severe disease and hospitalization.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
United States Department of Health and Human Services

(Family Features) Scaring up a good time this Halloween starts with spooky costumes, ghoulish decor and treats you can share with your favorite ghosts and goblins. For an extra haunting twist, skip the store-bought candies and break out your cauldron for tempting homemade sweets.

You can celebrate the seed-to-snack simplicity of one of fall’s favorite snacks – popcorn – with crunchy desserts that pair perfectly with your favorite spooky traditions. Popcorn’s smell, taste and versatility help it enhance Halloween as a budget-friendly solution for ghostly gatherings.

Embrace the taste of autumn – pumpkin spice – with a snack that allows you to indulge throughout the season. These White Chocolate and Pumpkin Pie Spice Popcorn Bites offer warm flavor without the scare. Simply pour melted pumpkin pie spice-seasoned chocolate over popped popcorn, toss with toffee bits and sea salt then break into bite-sized chunks for a seasonal sweet that’s perfect for celebrating National Popcorn Poppin’ Month.

Visit Popcorn.org to find more Halloween-inspired snacks.

Go for a Ghoulish Snack Bar

Encourage a little devious creativity this Halloween with a popcorn bar (char-boo-terie board) that features everyone’s favorites. Start with enough freshly popped popcorn to feed all your little zombies and vampires then add seasonal favorites like candy corn, chocolate candies, individually wrapped treats, dried fruit, nuts and beyond.

To pop popcorn on a stovetop, cover the bottom of a 3- to 4-quart pan with a thin layer of vegetable oil (don’t use butter, it will burn). Place 3 kernels of popcorn in the pan, cover with a loose lid that allows steam to escape and heat. When the kernels pop, pour in enough popcorn to cover the bottom of the pan, one kernel deep, then cover the pan and shake to evenly spread the oil. When the popping begins to slow to a few seconds apart, remove the pan from the stovetop. The heated oil will still pop the remaining kernels.

White Chocolate and Pumpkin Pie Spice Popcorn Bites

Servings: 12

• 12 cups unsalted, unbuttered popped popcorn
• 3 cups chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon light olive oil
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup toffee bits
• 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt, crushed

1. Line large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Place popcorn in large mixing bowl.
2. In microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate, olive oil and pumpkin pie spice; microwave on medium 2-3 minutes, or until melted and smooth, stirring after each minute.
3. Pour melted white chocolate mixture over popcorn; add toffee bits and toss to combine. Transfer to prepared baking sheet, spreading to edges of pan; sprinkle sea salt over top.
4. Let cool; refrigerate 1-2 hours, or until set. Break into chunks for serving.

Tip: Homemade pumpkin pie spice can be made by combining 3 parts ground cinnamon with 1 part ground nutmeg, 1 part allspice and 1 part ginger.

SOURCE:
Popcorn Board

(Family Features) Take a deep breath. Now ask yourself: When was the last time you thought about breathing? For people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), breathing is often front of mind because it can be difficult, and it gets worse over time.

There is no cure yet for COPD, but experts from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recommend these strategies to protect your lung health at every age.

Younger Adults: Prevention is Key
COPD is less common in younger adults, but it’s never too early to protect your lungs. The most important way to prevent COPD is to not smoke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 75% of people with COPD have a history of smoking. Smoking isn’t the only risk factor for COPD. Exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes or dust from the environment or workplace can also increase your risk. If you breathe in lung irritants at work, talk to your employer about how to limit exposure.

People with a genetic condition called AAT (Alpha-1 Antitrypsin) deficiency, sometimes known as Alpha-1, may have COPD-like symptoms as early as age 20. If you have symptoms or a family history of COPD, talk to your health care provider about being tested for AAT deficiency.

“It’s a simple, quick and highly accurate test that could improve the lives of some people with COPD,” said Dr. Mihaela Stefan of the NHLBI.

Middle-Aged Adults: Know the Symptoms and Seek Help
Most people are 40 or older when COPD symptoms start. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and fatigue. These are not just signs of getting older, and they’re not the same as seasonal allergies.

If you have symptoms, ask your health care provider if you should be tested for COPD. Discuss your smoking habits, family history of COPD and long-term exposure to lung irritants. Your health care provider may recommend lung function tests or imaging to diagnose COPD.

If you smoke, get help to quit. You don’t have to go it alone. Family, friends, your health care provider and support groups can all lend a hand.

Older Adults: Take Steps to Manage COPD
Older adults are at greater risk of COPD. If you’ve been diagnosed, follow your treatment plan and take medicines as prescribed.

Lifestyle changes can help people with COPD breathe better. Talk to your health care provider about pulmonary rehabilitation, a personalized treatment program that teaches COPD management strategies. Ask about an eating plan that will meet your nutritional needs and what types of physical activity you can safely do. Stay up to date with vaccinations against flu, pneumonia and COVID-19.

If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do to slow the progression of COPD and is an important part of COPD treatment plans. Ask your provider about options for quitting.

At any age, taking care of your lungs is crucial. Learn about COPD from Learn More Breathe Better^® at copd.nhlbi.nih.gov.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Bring loved ones together with protein-packed peanuts

(Family Features) Between juggling work, family, friends and social activities, powering through busy day-to-day schedules requires a lot of energy. Building meals around recipes packed with a plant-based protein such as peanuts or peanut butter can help your family come together to refuel.

In fact, at 7 grams per serving, a nutrient-rich powerhouse like peanuts delivers the most protein of any nut and contains six essential vitamins – vitamin E, folate, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin and vitamin B6 – and seven essential minerals – phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper and calcium.

As a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or part of a variety of recipes from morning to night, peanuts can take center stage at the family table when it’s time to recharge at the end of long days. Start with an appetizer like Broccoli and Edamame Salad with Peanut Dressing, which can be on the table in 10 minutes, to hold over hunger ahead of a protein-packed main course like Chicken with Peanut Sauce in Lettuce Wraps. Finish off the evening meal with Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Cheesecake as a better-for-you dessert.

Find more delicious ideas for keeping your family energized at gapeanuts.com.

Chicken with Peanut Sauce in Lettuce Wraps

Recipe courtesy of Parker’s Plate on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3/4 cup diced shiitake mushrooms
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/2 cup water chestnuts, diced
• 3 green onions (both white and green parts), chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts, for garnish
• iceberg or butter lettuce, for wraps

Peanut Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

1. In pan, saute ground chicken in sesame oil until cooked through. Drain if mixture is watery.
2. Add shiitake mushrooms and onion; saute until mushrooms have softened and appear caramel colored.
3. Add garlic, ginger, hoisin, water chestnuts and green onions. Let chicken mixture simmer on low.
4. To make peanut sauce: In saucepan over medium-low heat, mix peanut butter, brown sugar, lime juice, chili garlic sauce, ginger and soy sauce until smooth, warm and thinned slightly.
5. Fold into chicken mixture. Stir until combined and simmer on low until peanut sauce is evenly distributed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts. Serve in lettuce wraps.

Broccoli and Edamame Salad with Peanut Dressing

Recipe courtesy of Parker’s Plate on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time 5 minutes
Servings: 4

Dressing:

• 1/2 fresh lime, juice only
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame seed oil
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon chili oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• kosher salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon hot water, plus additional for thinner consistency (optional)

Salad:

• 2 cups broccoli slaw
• 1 cup shelled edamame, cooked
• 1 1/2 cups chopped raw broccoli
• 1/2 cup English cucumber, quartered and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped
• toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

1. To make dressing: In bowl, whisk lime juice, toasted sesame seed oil, honey, tahini, peanut butter, chili oil, garlic, ginger and salt, to taste. Add hot water, adding additional, if necessary, until dressing reaches desired consistency. Set aside.
2. To make salad: In large bowl, combine broccoli slaw, edamame, broccoli, cucumber, mint, cilantro and peanuts. Toss with dressing to combine and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, if desired.

Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Cheesecake

Recipe courtesy of Parker’s Plate on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Servings: 8 (1 slice each)

Crust:

• 2 cups pretzels
• 1 1/2 cups vanilla-flavored wafer-style cookies
• 1/2 cup peanuts
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter
• nonstick cooking spray

Filling:

• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped dark chocolate
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped peanuts
• 1 pinch sea salt

1. To make crust: In food processor, pulse pretzels, wafer-style cookies and peanuts until chopped but not powdery.
2. In skillet, melt butter. Add pretzel mixture until combined with butter.
3. Spray pie pan with nonstick cooking spray and spread mixture on bottom of pan and slightly up sides; press down until even.
4. To make filling: In bowl using hand mixer, whip cottage cheese until lumps are smoother, 3-4 minutes.
5. In separate bowl, use hand mixer to whip heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Add cottage cheese and peanut butter to heavy cream mixture; whip until combined, about 1 minute.
7. Top pie with chopped chocolate and peanuts and freeze 2 hours. Remove from freezer 15 minutes before ready to serve.
8. Before serving, sprinkle with sea salt.

SOURCE:
Georgia Peanut Commission

5 Reasons Family Meals are a Recipe for Success

(Family Features) Americans face a lack of social connection that poses a significant risk to individual health and longevity, according to the U.S. Surgeon General.

Address the epidemic of loneliness by joining the Family Meals Movement and sharing a meal with friends and family today.

Watch this video to learn how you can join the Family Meals Movement!

Encourage Togetherness
Research finds the more people eat together, the better they function. Specifically, frequent shared family meals improve connectedness, communication, expressiveness and problem-solving. Conversation is key during family meals to take advantage of the one-on-one time without distractions.

Strengthen Mental Health
Family meals also support mental health, restoring a sense of peace, bolstering self-esteem, increasing happiness and boosting a sense of resilience.

Enhance Nutrition
Research shows family meals improve fruit and vegetable consumption. It also indicates families who eat together frequently have a better overall healthy diet and lower body mass index.

Boost Academic Performance
Eating more meals together is associated with improved overall adolescent health, including higher grades. Multiple studies show students whose families eat together frequently perform better academically in reading and vocabulary.

Model Civility
The family dinner table is a great place to show younger generations how to communicate respectfully. In fact, 76% of Americans agreed family meals are a good opportunity to have and teach respectful interactions, according to the FMI Foundation’s “Staying Strong with Family Meals” Barometer.

Learn more about the physical, mental and social benefits of family meals at familymealsmovement.org. Share how you’re participating by tagging #familymealsmonth and #familymealsmovement on social media.

SOURCE:
FMI Foundation

(Family Features) Dine together, shine together. Weekly sit-down meals with family can reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make everyone feel more connected – all while sharing delicious, healthy and easy-to-prepare food.

Give your family the opportunity to refuel and reconnect each week with recipes that bring everyone together. Whether it’s 10 people or two, research shows that those who enjoy frequent meals with others, particularly parents with their children, have better social and emotional well-being, according to the American Heart Association.

Enjoying great conversation and camaraderie is at the heart of every meal, and with the right dishes, you can make every bite as delicious as it is nourishing. Ingredients like eggs are affordable, easy to use and versatile, making them the perfect choice in the kitchen to help you cook up conversation.

Gently cooked egg yolks take center stage in this Egg Ravioli with Sage and Almonds recipe, and delicate poached eggs rest atop whole grains in the Poached Eggs with Pesto Bulgur recipe. If breakfast is the best time of day for your tribe to gather, whip up these Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls for added protein and fiber.

These egg-inspired recipes and more are part of the American Heart Association’s Together Tuesdays and Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best. Both initiatives stress the importance of gathering at least once a week around the table with family or friends to satisfy cravings for connection, a delicious meal and overall healthy living.

In addition to the social and emotional benefits of dining together, shared family meals can help promote healthier choices at the table.

Eggs, for example, can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean protein and fish, according to the American Heart Association. Remember not to isolate just one food – it’s not only about the egg, but also about what’s eaten alongside it. For example, eating eggs alongside foods high in saturated fat – like bacon – is different than eggs eaten with steamed veggies, whole grains or a side of fruit.

For more heart-healthy recipe ideas and conversation starters to make Together Tuesdays a tradition in your household, visit heart.org/together.

Egg Ravioli with Sage and Almonds

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association
Servings: 4

• 8 cups water
• 1/2 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh, chopped thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 gyoza wrappers, shumai wrappers or wonton wrappers
• 4 large egg yolks, unbroken
• 1 large egg white, lightly beaten
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped, fresh sage
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped red bell pepper (optional)

1. Fill large pot with water. Bring water to gentle boil over medium-high heat.
2. In medium bowl, stir ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, orange zest and pepper.
3. Place four wrappers flour sides down on cutting board. Spoon 1 1/2 tablespoons cheese mixture onto center of each wrapper. Using back of spoon, press down on cheese mixture to create well about 1 1/2 inches across (width of large egg yolk), leaving at least 1/2 inch space around edges of wrapper. Without breaking it, carefully place one egg yolk in center of each well.
4. Using pastry brush, brush edges of wrappers with egg white. Place one top wrapper with flour side up on each bottom wrapper. Using thumbs and forefingers, firmly press edges together to tightly seal each ravioli. Set aside.
5. Using slotted spoon or spatula, carefully drop each ravioli into boiling water. Cook 2 1/2-3 minutes, or until wrappers are al dente (cooked not too soft but not overdone). Using slotted spoon, gently remove raviolis from pot, draining well. Transfer to plates. Drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with almonds, sage and bell pepper, if desired.

Tips: Gyoza wrappers (or shumai wrappers) are preferred because they're thinner than wonton wraps. Look for gyoza wrappers in the dairy aisle, deli department or freezer section.

Use these guidelines to determine how you want eggs cooked: At 2 1/2 minutes, eggs are yellow and slightly thickened but not set around edges, similar to sunny-side up. At 3 minutes, eggs are deeper orange and slightly set around edges, similar to over-easy.

Poached Eggs with Pesto Bulgur

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association
Servings: 4

• 2/3 cup uncooked instant or fine-grain bulgur
• 1 1/3 cups, plus 2 tablespoons, fat-free, low-sodium vegetable broth, divided
• 1 cup tightly packed fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts, dry roasted
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 dash cayenne
• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow or red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 medium lemon, cut into 4 wedges

1. In medium saucepan, prepare bulgur according to package directions, omitting salt and substituting 1 1/3 cups broth for water. Fluff with fork.
2. In food processor or blender, process basil, walnuts, garlic, salt, cayenne and remaining broth until smooth. Stir basil mixture, bell pepper and green onions into bulgur.
3. In large skillet, bring water and vinegar to boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer. Break one egg into cup then carefully slip egg into simmering water. Repeat with remaining eggs, placing in water so they don't touch. Simmer 3-5 minutes, or until whites are completely set and yolks are beginning to set but aren't hard. Using slotted spoon, drain eggs well and place on bulgur mixture. Serve with lemon wedges.

Note: White vinegar helps firm egg whites quickly, preventing them from spreading too much.

Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association
Servings: 4

• 1/4 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 medium tomatoes (about 2 cups), chopped
• 1 cup no-salt-added frozen corn, thawed
• 1/2 medium avocado, pitted and diced
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• nonstick cooking spray
• 4 large eggs
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• red hot pepper sauce, to taste (optional)

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat.
2. Spoon quinoa into four bowls. Top each with even amounts of tomatoes, corn, avocado, green onions and cilantro, if desired.
3. Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray and set over medium-high heat. Crack eggs into skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook, uncovered, 3-4 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks are still runny. Using spatula, carefully transfer one egg, sunny side up, into each bowl. Sprinkle with hot sauce, to taste, if desired.

SOURCE:
American Heart Association

(Family Features) For teenagers, retirement may seem like a lifetime away, but it’s never too early to start saving for the future. Because financial habits can be created at a young age, the sooner kids begin to save and learn about investing, the less likely they’ll face worries about money when they eventually stop working.

Teens are already thinking about retirement, according to the Achievement Teens & Retirement Survey conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of Junior Achievement and MissionSquare Retirement’s Foundation. Among young adults ages 13-18 surveyed, 83% have thought about their retirement and 78% believe they’ll be able to retire comfortably when the time comes. However, only 60% view retirement as living on investments and savings after leaving work, believing instead retirement could mean taking extended time off for travel, study, illness or taking care of family matters.

“This research shows retirement is more top-of-mind for teens than one might think,” said Tim Greinert, president of Junior Achievement USA. “While young people have given retirement planning some thought, it’s apparent they still need information on the best way to go about it.”

Because nearly half of U.S. households (46%) report having nothing saved for retirement, according to the Survey of Consumer Finances, taking steps early to save and invest can help teens get a head start on achieving a successful retirement.

1. Start now. The sooner you start, the longer you have to save and for investments to grow. Even though contributions may be small during your teens and 20s, it can make a dramatic difference in the long run.
    
2. Pay yourself first. Whether through a dedicated savings account or an employer’s retirement plan, set aside a set percentage of each paycheck. Then prioritize spending on what you truly need and want.
    
3. Invest what you save. Unless you save a lot, you’ll need to make the most of your savings by investing them to help them increase in value. According to the survey, teens believed investing in stocks and bonds with the help of a financial advisor (45%) or researched online (38%), buying real estate or property (30%) and buying cryptocurrency or non-fungible tokens (15%) are among the best ways to save for retirement.
    
4. Find the right balance between investment risk and potential return. The ideal mix is one most likely to help meet investment goals with a level of risk you can handle. The longer you have to invest, the more risk you can likely take.
    
5. Spread savings across different types of investments. This helps you manage risk. As some investments go through rough stretches, others are likely to hold steady or grow.
    
6. Stick with your investing plan. Avoid making decisions based on emotions or in an attempt to time the ups and downs of the market. Focus instead on meeting goals over time.

“The fact that so many young adults in the early stages of their careers are aware of a variety of investment strategies is encouraging news,” said Deanna Santana, president, MissionSquare Foundation. “Over the course of our lifetimes, investment approaches, the economy and our priorities will change, so planning for life after work is an ongoing necessity – for teens and adults alike.”

Find more advice to plan for the future and achieve economic success at ja.org and missionsq.org.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
Junior Achievement

(Family Features) Staying healthy goes far beyond physical activity. If you’re laying out a path toward healthier living, keep your brain’s fitness top of mind. As the command center of the body, it influences every aspect of life and requires healthy stimulation, nourishment and adequate rest.

Consider a few key suggestions from the experts at the Mayo Clinic to keep your brain sharp:

Satisfy Cravings with Healthy Foods
You can establish a strong foundation for brain health by consuming healthy, whole foods such as whole grains, fish, legumes and healthy fats, plus an abundance of fruits and vegetables, including grapes and leafy greens. Research suggests grapes help maintain a healthy brain. In a human study of elderly subjects with mild cognitive decline, UCLA researchers found consuming 2 1/4 cups of grapes every day preserved healthy metabolic activity in regions of the brain associated with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. 

Combinations of these healthy foods can be made into tasty dishes that support brain health such as this Chicken and Grape Cauliflower Rice Bowl, which features fresh Grapes from California alongside grilled chicken, cauliflower, zucchini, garbanzo beans and healthy spices.

Sleep Well
Health experts recommend aiming for at least seven hours of sleep per night. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, adequate sleep may help boost overall memory and brain health by giving the brain time to effectively consolidate memories.

Sweat It Out
Physical activity provides well-known benefits for the entire body, including increasing blood flow to the brain. After breaking a sweat, make sure you refuel with a post-workout snack like Grapes from California for natural hydration and an energy boost.

For more information on grapes and brain health, visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com and find more tasty recipes that support brain health.

Chicken and Grape Cauliflower Rice Bowl

Servings: 4

Chicken:

• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 pound (3-4 pieces) small boneless, skinless chicken breast halves

Zucchini:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium zucchini, trimmed and cut into 3/4-inch chunks
• 1 1/3 cups halved red Grapes from California

Cauliflower Rice:

• 1 bag (1 pound) thawed frozen riced cauliflower
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can (15 ounces) garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed well
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

1. To make chicken: In medium bowl, combine oil, garlic, ginger and cumin. Add turmeric, season lightly with salt and pepper, to taste, and whisk to blend. Lightly pound chicken pieces to even them out then turn to coat in oil-spice mixture. Let stand 20-30 minutes.
2. Heat heavy, large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken, smooth side down, and cook until golden brown underneath, about 4 minutes. Flip with spatula, reduce heat to medium and cook about 4 minutes until just cooked through. Transfer chicken to plate and tent with foil. Do not clean pan.
3. To make zucchini: In medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil until hot. Add zucchini pieces and cook, stirring often until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. To make cauliflower rice: In colander, drain cauliflower well. In same large skillet used for chicken, add oil, onion and water over medium heat; cook, stirring until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, cumin and turmeric; cook, stirring, 3 minutes. Add drained cauliflower and garbanzo beans; cook until hot, about 5 minutes. Stir in cilantro and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
5. Divide cauliflower rice among four large soup bowls. Slice chicken against grain and arrange on top of cauliflower rice along with grapes and cooked zucchini. Serve warm.

Nutritional information per serving: 420 calories; 34 g protein; 42 g carbohydrates; 14 g fat (30% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (5% calories from saturated fat); 65 mg cholesterol; 280 mg sodium; 10 g fiber.

SOURCE:
California Table Grape Commission