No- Bake Cheesecake

This is the easiest cheesecake recipe ever. It can be made in no time and with just four ingredients in the filling, you will find yourself making this over and over...especially on hot summer days when you do not want to turn on your oven. Our dinner guests devoured this pie in no time flat!

serves 10 ( 7 points +)

• 1 pre- made Oreo or graham cracker pie crust
• 1 can fat-free sweetened condensed milk
• 1 ( 8 oz) block light cream cheese
• 1 ( 8 oz) tub Cool Whip Free
• 1/3 c. fresh lemon juice

The secret to this creamy pie is letting your cream cheese come to room temperature so that it is easily spreadable. Let the cream cheese stand out for 1-2 hours before making this cheesecake.

Place cream cheese in a mixing bowl and beat until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and beat until combined. Add Cool Whip and beat until combined. Finally add lemon juice . The juice will immediately start to firm up your mixture and this is why you add it last. Beat until all ingredients are combined. Scrape into your crust. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours or until serving.

Grilled Chicken with Tomato-Avocado Salad

A nice, light and flavorful summertime dish!

serves 4 ( 8 points +)

Dressing:

• 1/4 c. low-fat buttermilk
• 3 T. light mayonnaise
• 2 T. chopped, fresh, flat-leaf parsley
• 2 tsp. chopped, fresh thyme
• 1 tsp. cider vinegar
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1/8 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. crushed garlic

Chicken:

• 4 ( 4 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 1 T. olive oil
• 2 tsp. dried, minced onion
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. chili powder

Salad:

• 1 c. frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 1/2 c. sliced red onion
• 1c. red grape tomatoes
• 1 c. yellow grape or cherry tomatoes
• 1 sliced, peeled avocado

Preheat grill.

Combine dressing ingredients in a small bowl and refrigerate until serving.

In another small bowl, combine olive oil, minced onion, cumin, salt and chili powder Rub over chicken. Grill chicken until no longer pink. Let stand 5 minutes, slice into thin slices.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Coat with nonstick spray. Add corn and onion and cook until onion is tender. Add tomatoes and cook 1-2 minutes. 

Place one sliced chicken breast on each plate. Place corn mixture next to chicken. top with avocado slices and drizzle corn mixture with dressing.


adapted from "Cooking Light"

Sun- Dried Tomato Rosemary Focaccia Bread

We have a little coffee shop in town that has amazing focaccia bread sandwiches. My favorite bread is the tomato herb focaccia. One day, I hope to replicate that recipe, but for today, I have made this focaccia bread and it was very good. I love this bread served warm. This recipe will make two loaves, so plan to either give one away, have lots of people over to share or try freezing one.

Makes 2 loaves with 8 wedges each ( 1 wedge = 4 points +)

• 1-1/2 c. warm water
• 1 packet quick rise yeast
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 1 tsp. salt
• 4 c. flour
• 3 T. olive oil, divided
• 1/4 c. sun-dried tomatoes, cut into julienned strips
• fresh rosemary
• coarse sea salt

Dissolve yeast in a mixing bowl with warm water. Add sugar and 1 tsp. salt. Stir in 2 T. olive oil. Add 3 c. flour and mix. Add more flour, a little at a time until mixture starts to pull away from the bowl. If you have a stand mixer, such as a Kitchen -Aid, with the dough hook, you can continue mixing for about 5 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic. If not, you will have to knead your dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic ( 6-8 minutes)

Place dough in a large bowl coated with nonstick spray. Turn dough to coat. Cover and keep in a warm place until dough doubles in size. ( I keep mine on top of my stove with my oven pre-heated). The dough will take 30-60 minutes to rise.

Heat 1 c. water to boiling. Add sun-dried tomato pieces. Let stand 30 minutes; drain.

Preheat oven to 425. Coat two 9 inch round cake pans with nonstick spray. Punch dough down; Divide dough into two equal portions and place in cake pans. Press dough with fingertips to form indentations. Brush with remaining 1 T. oil. Top with sun-dried tomato pieces, rosemary and coarse sea salt. Bake 16-17 minutes or until bread is golden. Let stand 10-15 minutes before serving.

Baby Potatoes with Tomato Corn Saute

This easy recipe only took about 15 minutes to make! It was delicious!

serves 4 ( about 3/4 c. = 4 points +)

• 12 oz. small baby potatoes, quartered
• 1 T. olive oil
• 1 c. frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 1 tsp. crushed garlic
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 c. halved grape tomatoes
• 1/3 c. chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 oz. ( about 1/4 c. ) shaved Parmesan cheese

Place potatoes in a medium saucepan. Cover with water. Bring to a boil. Boil 10 minutes or until tender; drain.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Add corn and next three ingredients, through crushed pepper flakes. Saute 2 minutes. Add potatoes and tomatoes to pan. Cook 1 minutes. Top with cilantro and cheese.

adapted from "Cooking Light"

Herbed Ricotta Tart

Savory and a good source of protein, this makes a nice meatless meal choice!

serves 6 ( 7 points +)

• 1 ( 11 oz.) can refrigerated pizza crust dough
• 1-1/3 c. low-fat ricotta cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 egg white
• 1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 T. chopped fresh parsley
• 2 T. chopped fresh basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Coat tart dish or large pie pan with nonstick spray. Press pizza crust into bottom and up sides of pan.
Lightly beat eggs and egg whites together in a large bowl. Add remaining ingredients and stir to mix. Pour into crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until center is set. Let stand 5 minutes. Cut into 6 wedges.

Beef Tenderloin with Mustard and Herbs

This was my first time grilling a beef tenderloin. It was delicious and cooked fairly quickly! Keep an eye on it and turn about every 5 minutes.


serves 10 ( 5 points +)

• 1 ( 2-1/2 lb. beef tenderloin)
• salt and pepper
• 1/3 c. finely chopped parsley
• 2 T. chopped fresh thyme
• 3 T. Dijon mustard

Prepare grill. Lightly coat meat with nonstick spray. Season with salt and pepper. Place beef on grill over medium heat. Grill until a thermometer reads 140 degrees or until desired doneness. Let beef stand 10 minutes. 
Sprinkle parsley and time onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Brush mustard evenly over beef. Place beef in herb mixture on plastic wrap and roll to coat. Slice thinly.

adapted from "Cooking Light"

Grilled Steak with Baby Arugula and Parmesan Salad

The lemon in this dressing, combined with the shaved Parmesan really make the arugula shine!

serves 4 ( 5 points +)

• 1 lb. lean sirloin steak
• 2 tsp. chopped, fresh thyme
• salt and pepper
• 2 lemons, halved
• 1 T. olive oil
• 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard
• 5 oz. baby arugula
• 1/4 c. ( 1 oz) shaved, fresh Parmesan cheese

Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Spray with nonstick spray. Rub thyme, salt and pepper over both sides of steak. Grill 4-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Remove and let stand 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

 For dressing, place lemon halves, cut side down on skillet. Cook for 2 minutes. Remove and squeeze juices into a small bowl. Add olive oil, Dijon and salt and pepper to taste. Whisk well. 

Place arugula in a large bowl. Drizzle dressing over the top and toss to coat. Divide arugula evenly among 4 plates. Top with steak and shaved Parmesan.

Banana, Oatmeal, Chocolate Chip Pancakes

This recipe will have your taste buds singing for joy! It is healthy, yet satisfies the chocolate craving!

serves 4 ( 2 pancakes = 7 points +)

• 2 medium bananas ( ripe)
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1 T. canola oil
• 1 egg
• 1/2 c. low-fat buttermilk
• 1 c. quick rolled oats
• 1/4 c. white whole wheat flour
• 1/4 c. mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Maple Syrup ( optional)

In a mixing bowl, mash bananas. Add baking powder, vanilla, oil, egg and buttermilk. Mix well. Add oats and flour. Mix to combine. Stir in chocolate chips.

Heat a griddle over medium-high heat. Spray with nonstick spray. Spoon batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto hot griddle. Grill until bottoms are browned. Flip and grill other side until browned.

Serve with syrup if desired.

Panko Crusted Cod with Tomato Basil Relish

Another quick and easy recipe that is full of fresh flavor. The serving size is generous, too. 

serves 4 ( 6 points +)

• 2 egg whites, lightly beaten
• 1/2 c. Panko Japanese bread crumbs
• 4 ( 6 oz) cod filets
• salt and pepper
• 2 T. canola oil
• 1 c. grape tomatoes, quartered
• 1/2 c. sliced red onion
• 2 T. sliced fresh basil leaves
• 2 T. fresh lemon juice

Preheat oven to 450. 

Place egg whites in a shallow dish. Place panko in another shallow dish. Season with salt and pepper.
Heat oil in a large oven-proof skillet. Dip fish in egg whites and then coat in panko mixture. Add fish to pan; cook 3-4 minutes or until browned and crispy. Turn fish over; place pan in oven. Bake for 7 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

Combine tomatoes with remaining ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve tomato relish over fish.

from "Cooking Light"

Double Berry Cake

This recipe is similar to my cobbler recipe and is a delicious summer-time treat, especially when served with Cool Whip or vanilla ice-cream. Adding 2 T. Cool Whip Free to each piece will not add any additional points.  In addition, if you decide to cut the pan into 12 pieces instead of 9, then the points value will decrease by 2. I made this recipe using Xylitol, a natural sweetener. If you opt to use all sugar, the points value will increase by 2. You can also substitute with any berries you like.

Serves 9 ( 5 points +)

• 1 c. fresh raspberries
• 1 c. fresh blackberries 
• 1-1/2 c. flour
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• 3 T. canola oil
• 2 tsp. vanilla
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 c. Xylitol or sugar
• 1 c. skim milk

Topping

• 1 T. cornstarch
• 1/4 c. sugar
• 1 c. boiling water

Place berries in an 8 inch square baking dish coated with nonstick spray.
Mix flour with the next 7 ingredients ( through milk). Spread over berries.

In a small bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch and boiling water. Mix well. Pour over dough. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until browned on top.

Creamy Avocado Dressing

I love all things avocado. This dressing is full of delicious flavor and is healthy to boot! The recipe did make quite a bit, but it can be stored in the refrigerator or even used as a sandwich spread. Feel free to make just half of a recipe too. 

 Makes about 3-1/2 to 4 c. (2 T. = 1 point +)

• 2 c. avocado
• 1/2 c. olive oil
• 1/2 c. low-fat Greek yogurt
• 2 T. lime juice
• 1 tsp. crushed garlic
• salt and pepper to taste
• water

Place all ingredients in a blender. Blend, adding water until you achieve desired consistency * I think I used at least 1/2 c. water. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Chicken Pot Pie

This pretty pie is comfort food at its finest. This recipe is fairly simple and I have lightened the ingredients as much as possible while still giving it a rich and indulgent taste. Since it is a bit higher in points, I suggest serving it with a large green salad for a complete and filling meal.
I used a large pie dish for this recipe. The longer you let the pie stand, the more firm the filling will become. I suggest at least 15 minutes.

serves 8 ( 9 points +)

• Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust ( 2 crusts)
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 c. carrots, sliced
• 1 c. frozen peas
• 1/2 c. sliced celery
• 4 T. light stick butter
• 1/2 c. chopped onion
• 1/2 c. flour
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2-1/2 c. fat-free chicken broth
• 1 c. skim milk

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Place chicken, carrots, peas and celery in a large pot. Cover with water. Boil for 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Drain.
Unroll 1 pie crust and place in the bottom of pie dish. Spread chicken mixture over crust.

Meanwhile, melt butter in a sauce pot. Add onion and cook until tender. Stir in flour, salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in broth and milk. Cook, stirring constantly until thickened. Pour flour mixture over chicken mixture. 

Unroll remaining crust and place over mixture in pie dish. Crimp edges, cut four slits in the top to let steam escape. Bake at 425 for 30-35 minutes or until browned and bubbly. Let stand 15 minutes before cutting. If you want your filling firmer, let stand longer.

Pork Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Avocado Salsa

This flavorful recipe takes a little bit of time to cook, but overall, it is pretty simple. I love the combination of the pork with the grilled pineapple, and of course, avocado is an added bonus! You will have extra liquid when this is done cooking, so serve with a slotted spoon.

Makes 16 tacos ( 5 points + each)
Tacos:

• 2-1/4 lbs. pork tenderloin, cut into bite sized pieces
• 1 T. olive oil
• 1 T. chili powder
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. pepper
• 1 T. garlic powder
• 1/4 c. fresh orange juice
• 1 c. fat-free chicken broth 
• 16 corn tortillas ( La Tortilla Factory brand is awesome!)

Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large pot. Cook pork, browning on all sides ( may have to cook in batches)
Add chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper. Stir. Add orange juice and broth. Cover and cook on low for 1- 1-1/4 hours or until very tender. Warm tortillas either in the oven, covered with foil or in a frying pan.


Salsa:

• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored and cut into spears
• 1 c. diced avocado
• 1/4 c. finely chopped red onion
• 1/2 c. chopped, fresh cilantro
• 2 T. finely chopped, seeded jalapeno pepper
• salt to taste
• 1 T. honey
• 2 T. lime juice

Spray a grill pan with nonstick spray. Cook pineapple spears until softened and grill lines form on all sides. Remove and cool for about 15 minutes. Chop pineapple and place in a medium bowl. Carefully stir in remaining ingredients. Serve with pork tacos.

Coconut Oil Brown Sugar Cookies

Coconut Oil seems to be the rage in the health food industry lately. I have used it for quite some time for everything from health reasons to cooking. Here is just one article on some of the health benefits of coconut oil ( there are many more articles online, so check them out for yourself) http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/surprising-health-benefits-coconut-oil

When I came across the recipe for these cookies on Pinterest, I knew I had to try them. The original recipe comes from a site called "Averie Cooks". The author says that the dough for these cookies must be chilled for at least two hours or they will spread too much. As you can see, I was in a rush and did not chill for at least two hours. Never the less, these cookies were amazing with a deep, rich caramel-y taste. The texture is soft and dense, yet somewhat light tasting. Do not over bake. The cookies will firm a bit more upon standing. 

Makes 21 ( 4 points +)

• 1/2 c. coconut oil ( softened, but NOT melted)
• 1 c. dark brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 T. vanilla
• 1 T. mild molasses
• 1-3/4 c. flour
• 2 tsp. cornstarch
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. salt

In a large mixing bowl, combine coconut oil, sugar and egg. Beat until combined. Add vanilla and molasses and beat 1-2 minutes. Add flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.

Using a medium cookie scoop ( about 2 T. in measure) scoop dough onto a large plate or platter. Cover with plastic wrap and place in refrigerator to chill for 2 hours or up to 5 days.

Preheat oven to 350, lone a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray. Place dough on baking sheet at least 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 - 10 minutes or until tops have just set. They will firm up as they cool.

Cool on baking sheets for 10 minutes before moving. Store in an airtight container. 

Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Today is Memorial Day. I wanted to make something fitting ( All American, red, white and blue). What better than blueberry breakfast cake served with fresh srawberries? This cake was wonderful served warm. Let me know how you like it!

serves 16 ( 4 points +)

• 1/2 c. light stick butter
• 1 T. grated lemon zest ( about 1 large lemon)
• 3/4 c. + 1 T. sugar, divided
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 2 c. flour, divided
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 c. low-fat buttermilk
• 2 c. fresh blueberries

Preheat oven to 350 and spray a 9 inch square pan with nonstick spray.
Combine blueberries with 1/4 c. flour and set aside.

Place butter and 3/4 c. sugar, and lemon zest in a large mixing bowl. Beat until creamy. Add egg and vanilla. Mix until combined.
Whisk together 1-3/4 c. flour, salt and baking powder. Add flour mixture alternately with buttermilk to sugar mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture.  Fold in blueberries.
Spread in prepared pan. Sprinkle with 1 T. sugar. Bake 35-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. 
Let cool 15 minutes before serving.

Lemon Risotto with Peas and Tarragon

Creamy comfort food with a hint of spring flavor! This dish pairs especially well with chicken.

serves 8 ( 1/2 c. = 5 points +)

• 1 c. frozen peas
• 4 c. fat-free chicken broth
• 2 T. olive oil
• 1/2 c. chopped onion
• 1/4 c. chopped green onion
• 1 c. uncooked Arborio rice
• 3 T. white wine
• 1/2 c. Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp. grated lemon rind
• 2 T. fresh lemon juice
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 T. chopped, fresh tarragon
• 1 T. butter

Place broth in a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Keep warm over low heat. Boil peas or microwave for 2 minutes. Ser aside.
Heat oil in a large saucepan. Add onions and green onions. Cook until tender. Add rice; cook 1 minute stirring constantly. Add wine; cook until liquid is nearly absorbed. Stir in 1 c. broth; cook until liquid is nearly absorbed, stirring constantly. Add remaining broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly until each portion of broth is absorbed before adding the next. Stir in peas; heat through. Stir in cheese, rind, juice, salt and pepper. Remove from heat; stiri in tarragon and butter.

Buttermilk Drop Biscuits

Light, soft and melt-in your mouth, it will be hard to eat just one of these!

Makes 12 ( 4 points +)

• 1-1/4 c. all-purpose flour
• 3/4 c. white- whole wheat flour
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/4 c. butter
• 1-1/4 c. low-fat buttermilk
• 1 T. canola oil

Preheat oven to 450
Combine flours, baking powder, sugar, salt and baking soda in a large bowl.
Place butter in a microwave safe bowl and microwave 1 minute or until melted. Add cold buttermilk, stirring until butter forms small clumps. Add oil, stirring to combine,
Add buttermilk mixture to flour mixture; stir until just incorporated.
Drop batter in mounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 11 monutes or until golden. Serve warm.

adapted from "Cooking Light"

Peanut Butter Frosted Brownie Bars

It is a rainy day here in the Midwest and I am planning a small dinner party for tonight. What better time to try out a new brownie recipe? I saw the original recipe on Pinterest from www.piarecipes.com, but I decided to tweak it just a bit to make it more points friendly.  This recipe is very similar to my Texas Sheet Cake recipe, except that it has less flour and is topped with peanut butter frosting instead of chocolate frosting. There are two keys to making a good dessert: the first is to lighten where you can, without risking losing the flavor.  The second is to have smaller portions.This rich, cake-like brownie sacrifices no flavor and a small piece is sure to satisfy!

Makes 48 ( 3 points +)

• 2 c. sugar
• 1 c. flour
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1 c. butter
• 2 eggs
• 1 c. water
• 1/3 c. cocoa
• 1/2 c. low-fat buttermilk
• 1-1/2 tsp. vanilla

Frosting:

• 3 T. light stick butter
• 1/4 c. light cream cheese
• 1/4 c. reduced fat peanut butter
• 2 c. powdered sugar
• 1 T. skim milk

Preheat oven to 350 and spray a jelly roll pan with nonstick spray.
Place sugar, fluor and baking soda in a large mixing bowl.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter with water and cocoa, stirring constantly. Add butter mixture to flour mixture and beat until blended. Add eggs, vanilla and buttermilk and beat until smooth. ( mixture will be thin). Pour into prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove from oven and cool completely.

For frosting, beat butter, cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and beat until well combined. Add 1 T. milk. Spread over cooled brownies.

Chicken in a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal. It can be made in about 30 minutes. This was a big hit in our family.

serves 6 ( 1/2 c. egg noodles + one chicken breast with sauce = 8 points +)

• 1 T. olive oil, divided
• 6 ( 4 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• salt and pepper
• 1/4 c. onion, chopped
• 1 can Campbell's Healthy Request Cream of Chicken Soup
• 3/4 c. water
• 1/4 c. julienned sun-dried tomatoes ( not packed in oil)
• 1 T. red wine vinegar
• 3 c. hot cooked, egg noodles ( or more for the big eaters in the family)
• 2 T. chopped, fresh basil leaves
• 6 tsp. Parmesan cheese, grated

Heat 2 tsp. oil in a large nonstick skillet.  Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Add to pan and cook until chicken is no longer pink and browned on both sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
Add remaining 1 tsp. oil to the pan. Add onion and saute until tender. Add soup, water, sun-dried tomatoes and vinegar. Heat to boiling. Return chicken to pan and heath through. Serve over egg noodles topped with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

Tuscan Lemon Muffins

I love that it is finally spring in the mid-west! Somehow, spring and the taste of lemon seem to go hand in hand. I love the rich flavor of these muffins and love that they are made with olive oil instead of butter. The ricotta cheese puts the taste over the top! My boys just about devoured these in one sitting!

Serves 12 ( 5 points +)

• 1-3/4 c. flour
• 3/4 c. sugar
• 2-1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 3/4 c. low-fat ricotta cheese
• 1/2 c. water
• 1/4 c. olive oil
• 1 T. grated lemon rind
• 2 T. fresh lemon juice
• 1 large egg
• 2 T. turbinado sugar

Preheat oven to 375 and line muffin tins with paper liners or spray with nonstick spray.

In a large bowl, combine the first four ingredients ( through salt). Make a well in the center.
In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the next 5 ingredients ( through egg). Add ricotta mixture to flour mixture, stirring until just moist. 
Spoon into muffin tins. Sprinkle each with 1/2 tsp. turbinado sugar. 
Bake for 15-16 minutes or until done. Cool 5 minutes in pan on a wire rack.

adapted from "Cooking Light"

Broccoli Grape Salad

This salad has been a family favorite for years. Although the combination of ingredients may seem strange, this dish is absolutely delicious! This salad is great to bring to a party, but is best made the night before. Letting the salad sit overnight in the refrigerator is key to the melding of the flavors.

serves 12 ( about 2/3 c. = 5 points +)

• 1-1/2 bunches fresh broccoli ( at least 4 c. ) cut into florets
• 4 c. red seedless grapes
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 6 strips Oscar Mayer fully cooked bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
• 1 c. light mayonnaise
• 1/3 c. sugar
• 1T. white vinegar
• 1 c. cashews

Place first four ingredients in a large bowl. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar and vinegar. Pour over broccoli mixture, stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight. Just before serving add cashews and toss to mix.

Soy Marinated Pork Sandwich with Carrot Ribbon Salad Topping

This sandwich has a very Vietnamese taste.  We all enjoyed it.

serves 4 ( 6 points +)

• 1-1/2 T. brown sugar
• 1-1/2 T. low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tsp. crushed garlic
• 2 tsp. chili garlic sauce
• 3/4 tsp. fresh crushed ginger
• 3/4 tsp. dark sesame oil
• 12 oz. lean pork tenderloin, cut into thin slices
• 2 T. rice vinegar
• 2 tsp. canola oil, divided
• 1/4 tsp. sugar
• 1 c. shaved carrot
• 1/4 c. diagonally cut green onions
• 1/4 c. fresh cilantro
• 4 light hamburger buns

Combine first 6 ingredients in a medium bowl. Add pork and toss to coat. LEt stand 15 minutes.
While pork marinates, combine vinegar, 1 tsp. canola oil and sugar in a medium bowl. Add carrot, onions and cilantro; toss to coat.

Preheat broiler to high.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tsp. oil to pan and swirl to coat. Add pork to pan. Cook until done, turning occasionally ( 3-5 minutes)

While pork cooks, place buns on a baking sheet, cut sides up. Broil 1 minute or until lightly toasted. Top buns with pork and carrot mixture.

"Cooking Light"

Swiss Cheese Souffles

These souffles are beautiful and savory. They are a  nice addition to any meal.

serves 6 ( 3 points +)

• 6 tsp. grated Parmesan cheese
• 2-1/2 T. flour
• 1/8 tsp. ground red pepper
• 1/8 tsp. grated nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp. black pepper
• 1/2 c. skim milk
• 2 T. white wine
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/2 c. shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 egg yolks
• 4 egg whites

Preheat oven to 400 degrees
To prepare souffles, coat each of 6 ( 8 oz) ramekins with cooking spray. Sprinkle each ramekin with 1 tsp. Parmesan cheese and tilt to coat.
Combine flour and the next three ingredients in a small saucepan. Gradually add milk and white wine, stirring with a whisk until smooth. Cook 3-4 minutes or until thick and bubbly. Remove from heat. Add salt and Swiss cheese, Stir until cheese melts. Spoon mixture into a large bowl and let stand for 5 minutes. Stir in egg yolks.
Place egg whites in a large mixing bowl. Beat at high speed until medium peaks form. Gently stir one quarter of egg whites into yolk mixture; gently fold in remaining egg whites. Spoon into prepared ramekins. Place dishes on a baking sheet and place in the oven. Immediately reduce oven temperature to 375. Bake 17 minutes or until puffed and golden.

adapted from "Cooking Light"

Chicken with Orange Plum Bourbon Sauce

Yum! Another quick dinner that is full of flavor!

serves 6 ( 5 points +)

• 1-1/2 tsp. olive oil
• 6 ( 4 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• salt and pepper
• 1/4 c. orange marmalade
• 1/4 c. plum jelly ( or some other red jelly)
• 1 tsp. low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tsp. butter
• 1 T. bourbon

Heat a large cast iron or heavy skillet over medium high heat. Add oil and swirl to coat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Add to pan and cook 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove from pan.
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine orange marmalade, plum jelly and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until thickened ( 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat. Stir in butter and bourbon. Spoon over chicken.

Steak Sandwich with Arugula and Fresh Herb Topping

This fast, filling sandwich can be made in about 15 minutes. The topping is similar to a pesto sauce, but with less oil and without nuts. Our family loved the flavor combinations in this recipe.

serves 4 ( 11 points +)

• 1 lb. flank steak
• 2 T. olive oil, divided
• salt and pepper
• 1 ( 12 oz) French bread baguette
• 1-1/2 c. arugula, divided
• 1/2 c. fresh, flat-leaf parsley
• 2 T. grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 T. fresh lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 2 plum tomatoes

Preheat broiler to high.
Heat a large nonstick cast iron or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub steak evenly with 1-1/2 tsp. olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Add steak to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until desired doneness. Remove from pan; let stand 5 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain.

Cut bread in quarters, crosswise, then split open Hollow out tops and bottom of bread, leaving 1/2 inch shell.. Place bread, cut sides up, on a baking sheet or broiler pan. Broil for 1-1/2 - 2 minutes or until toasted.

Place 1-1/2 T. oil, 1/2 c. arugula, parsley and remaining ingredients, though garlic into a food processor. Process until smooth. Spread parsley mixture over bread. Layer bread with remaining arugula, steak and tomato. Cover with top halves of bread.

adapted from "Cooking Light"

Southwestern Chopped Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing

This salad would make a perfect lunch or a nice, hefty side dish! This recipe is slightly adapted from a site called "The Garden Grazer". I originally saw this recipe on Pinterest and it looked so fresh and appetizing that I knew I had to try it! Just the thought of cilantro and lime together gets me every time!

serves 8 ( 4 points +)
Salad:

• 1 head iceberg lettuce or 1 large head Romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, quartered
• 2 c. frozen corn, thawed
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped
• 1 can ( 15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

Dressing:

• 1 c. loosely packed cilantro
• 1/2 c. plain low-fat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 c. olive oil
• juice of one lime
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• salt to taste

Combine salad ingredients together in a large bowl. 

For dressing, place all ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth. Toss salad with dressing.

Spice Rubbed Flank Steak with Avocado Salsa

Fresh tasting and full of a symphony of flavors, this recipe is sure to please!

serves 4 ( 5 points +)
Salsa:

• 1/4 c. finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 c. chopped, fresh cilantro
• 2 T. lime juice
• 1/2 c. chopped avocado
• salt to taste

Steak:

• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. chili powder
• 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/4 c. fat-free beef broth
• 1 lb. flank steak

For steak, combine spices in a small bowl, rub over both sides of steak. 
Heat a large cast iron or nonstick skillet coated with nonstick spray over medium-high heat. Cook steak 4 minutes, flip. Cook 2 minutes, then add beef broth. Cook until desired doneness. Let stand 5 minutes, Slice thinly against the grain.

For salsa, combine ingredients together in a medium bowl. Serve over sliced steak.

Banana Pudding Cake

I saw this recipe on Pinterest and decided to adapt it to make it points friendly. This moist, flavorful cake will be sure to please. Try it with different flavors. It is very versatile!

serves 24 ( 5 points +)

• 1 box yellow cake mix ( 15 oz. I used Duncan Hines), mixed according to package directions
• 2 packages instant, sugar-free, fat-free, banana pudding
• 4 c. skim milk
• 1 ( 8 oz.) Cool Whip Free
• 20 reduced-fat vanilla wafers, crushed

Preheat oven to temperature specified on cake mix. Mix cake mix according to package directions ( eggs, oil, water). Pour cake mix into a 13 x 9 baking dish coated with nonstick spray. Bake according to package directions. Let cool for 5 minutes. Poke holes in the top of the cake with a spoon handle or whatever you can find to make a round hole.
Meanwhile, mix pudding with milk for 2 minutes. Let stand to slightly thicken. Pour pudding mix over cake, pushing as much into the holes as possible. 
Place cake in the refrigerator and cool completely. When cake is cooled, spread Cool Whip over pudding. Top with crushed vanilla wafers. Garnish with banana slices and a whole cookie if desired.

Zucchini, Yellow Squash and Tomato Tian

Super easy, super healthy, super delicious!

serves 6 ( 2 points +)

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 T. olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste
• 3 T. Parmesan cheese, grated

Preheat oven to 350
Place onion in the bottom of a large deep-dish pie pan or large round baking dish. Arrange zucchini, squash and tomatoes in spiral fashion over onions. Drizzle with 1 T. olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with Parmesan and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until browned.

Sirloin in Red Wine Sauce

While looking for a recipe for a special dinner for my parents' anniversary, I came across this one in a "Cooking Light" magazine. I adapted it slightly for the amount of people I was serving. It was a real treat and at 4 points +, it was thoroughly enjoyed!

Serves 8 ( 4 points +)

• 1 T. canola oil, Divided
• 2 ( 1 lb. sirloin steaks)
• salt and pepper
• 3 T. finely chopped onion
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
• 1/2 c. red wine
• 1/2 c. fat-free beef broth
• 1-1/2 tsp. butter
• 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard

In a large nonstick skillet or cast iron pan, heat oil.  Season steaks with salt and pepper. Add steaks to pan and cook 3-4 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Remove and let stand 5 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain.
Meanwhile, add onion and thyme to pan and cook until tender. Stir in red wine; cook until liquid almost evaporates ( 2-3 minutes). Add broth to pan and cook 3 minutes or until mixture is reduced by half. Remove from heat. Stir in butter, mustard and salt and pepper to taste. Pour red wine sauce over steak.

Curried Rice Pilaf

This recipe was sent to my by my neighbor, Danielle. I adjusted it to make it a little more points friendly. It was outstanding. I think this dish would accompany beef, chicken or pork quite well.

serves 8 ( 1/2 generous cup = 5 points +)

• 1/2 c. chopped green onion, divided
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 c. uncooked rice( I used Jasmine Rice)
• 3 c.  fat-free chicken broth
• 3/4 tsp. curry powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 c. golden raisins
• 1/2 c. sliced almonds, toasted

Spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Add 1/4 c. green onions and garlic. Cook until tender. Stir in rice and cook 2-3 minutes. Add broth, curry powder and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer very low until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. ( 15-20 minutes) Stir in raisins, remaining green onions and almonds.

Creamy Spring Pasta

This is an Alfredo-like dish with a taste of spring! I think you will love the creamy, rich flavor!

serves 4 ( 10 points +)

• 1 oz. white bread
• 1/2 T. butter
• 4 tsp. crushed garlic, divided
• 1-1/2 c. diagonally cut ( 2 inch pieces) asparagus
• 1 c. frozen peas
• 9 oz. refrigerated fettuccine
• 2 tsp. olive oil
• 1/2 c. finely chopped onion
• 1 T. flour
• 1/4 c. fat-free chicken broth
• 1 c. skim milk
• 3 oz. reduced-fat cream cheese
• 1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp. sea salt
• 1/2 tsp. pepper

Place bread in a food processor and process until fine crumbs form. Melt butter in a large nonstick skillet. Add 1 tsp. garlic and bread crumbs. Cook until browned and crisp. stirring often. Remove from pan and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat a large pot of water to a boil. Add asparagus and peas. Cook 3-5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Add fettuccine to pot and cook until al dente ( about 2 minutes with fresh pasta); drain.
Heat oil in skillet. Add 1 T. garlic and onions. Cook 3 minutes or until tender. In a small bowl, combine flour with broth. Add broth mixture and milk to pan and cook 1 minute or until thickened. Remove from heat. Stir in cream cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted. Stir in salt and pepper. Add vegetables and pasta to pan. Toss to coat. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with bread crumbs. Serve immediately.

adapted from "Cooking Light"

Spinach-Radish Salad

A fun, colorful, fresh-tasting, spring-time salad!

serves 6 ( 2 points +)

• 6 T. white wine vinegar
• 2 T. olive oil
• 1 tsp. honey
• salt and pepper to taste
• 6 oz. fresh, baby spinach
• 2 c. sliced radishes
• 2 oz. soft goat cheese, crumbled

Combine first 4 ingredients for dressing. Set aside.
Place spinach on a large platter. Top with radishes and goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing.

Chicken Braised in Wine and Rosemary

I made this dish for a Sunday afternoon dinner. Total time was about 40 minutes. I made extra chicken for guests, but did not increase the sauce. There was plenty! Everyone loved it. I hope you do too! If you do not want to use 9 points, then you can just have one piece of chicken for about 5 points+

serves 4 ( 1 drumstick, 1 thigh and 1/4 c. sauce = 9 points +)

• 4 bone-in chicken drumsticks, skinned
• 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skinned
• 1/2 tsp. salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp. pepper
• 2 T. olive oil
• 1/4 c. flour
• 1/2 c. chopped shallots
• 1 T. crushed garlic
• 1 tsp. chopped, fresh rosemary
• 1 c. red wine
• 1 c. fat-free chicken broth
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 1 ( 14.5 oz.) can whole tomatoes, crushed and undrained
• 1 bay leaf

Sprinkle chicken with 1/4 tsp. salt and pepper. Dredge chicken in flour.
Heat a large Dutch oven over high heat. Add oil to pan and swirl to coat. Add chicken to pana nd cook 5 minutes per side. Remove chicken from pan. Add shallots, garlic and rosemary to pan and cook 2 minutes or until tender. Add wine to pan; bring to a boil. Cook 1 minutes, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Add remaining 1/4 tsp. salt and pepper, chicken broth, sugar, tomatoes and bay leaf. Bring to a boil; return chicken to pan. Reduce heat to medium; cook, covered for 15-20 minutes, turning once, or until chicken is done.

"Cooking Light"

Glazed Carrots

You will want to make this simple, tasty recipe again and again!

serves 4 ( 2 points +)

• 12 oz. small, thin carrots ( or fresh baby carrots), peeled
• 1/4 c. water
• 1/4 c. apple cider vinegar
• 2-1/2 T. brown sugar
• 1 T. butter
• salt and pepper

Combine water, vinegar and brown sugar in a medium skillet. Add carrots and cook over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 6-8 minutes or until carros are crisp-tender. Increase heat to medium-high, Cook until liquid is syrupy ( about 2 minutes). Stir in butter. Season with salt and pepper.

adapted from "Cooking Light"