We’re having a virtual cooking class called Game Day and Slow Cooker Recipes. The class is part of the Cooking Connections series on The Motherhood. Details below. I hope you can join in the yummy fun!
When:
Thursday, February 2, at 1 p.m. ET. It will last 30 minutes.
Get ready – and hungry – for Game Day! Cold weather and football puts us in the mood for some tasty slow cooker recipes. Join us to share your favorites and be inspired by suggestions from others! Celebrity chef George Duran will host a live video demonstration of a slow cooker recipe from website Ready Set Eat while we all chat and ask questions via text.
The class is sponsored by ReadySetEat.com and ConAgra Foods, and it is hosted by TheMotherhood. You can get and share suggestions for crowd-pleasing halftime recipes during this class and turn to recipe website ReadySetEat.com for more quick and easy meal ideas.
I hope you’ll join me and the other co-hosts listed below.
As a parent, and consumer, I want to believe I am making heart healthy choices for myself and my family. Yet, reality is that most consumers don’t.
Many families avoid heart-healthy foods because they think they won’t taste good or are too hard to make or cost too much. . The good news is that this couldn’t be further from the truth! You can “heart your cart” with foods that are simple to prepare, convenient, affordable and sabroso/delicious!
Diane Henderiks, R.D., provided me with some simple and inexpensive ways to “heart your cart”.
Make your own salad dressing by mixing balsamic vinegar and Welch’s grape juice.
One 4 oz glass of 100% grape juice equals 1 serving (1/2 cup) of fruit – with no added sugar. *Welch’s 100% Grape Juice is a great option!
Instead of purchasing bread crumbs, pulverize oatmeal down to powder, mix with flour and use mixture to bread chicken.
In sangria recipe, substitute wine for Welsch’s grape juice. Heart healthy and festive!
Red wine, salmon, oatmeal or olive oil are heart-healthy foods.
Let’s talk! How do you “heart your cart”? Share your tips in a comment below!
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To save your wallet, while saving your heart, click HERE to obtain printable grocery coupons.
To find Welch’s products and heart-healthy resources, including shopping tips, videos and recipes visit welchs.com/rewardyourheart.
*To learn more about the Concord grape’s health benefits go to www.GrapeScience.com
The past few weeks have been intense as a Lucille Roberts Ambassador. My body has done things it hasn’t done in ages. Honestly, after my first training session with my Lucille Roberts’ Trainer, I didn’t think I would make it. I was bright red, gasping for breath and dripping more sweat than I thought a body could produce! But you know what? I DID IT!
I’m now on my 4th week of training and feel more energized than I’ve felt in the past 2 years. I no longer take power naps. I’ve lowered my coffee intake. I have energy. In sum, I. Feel. GREAT!
When I joined the Lucille Roberts Blog Ambassador program, I wanted to make a change in my life. As a single mom of a two boys, a teen and tween, my life was, and is, hectic. Working from home, exacerbates the situation. I was losing myself. It was no longer Ms. Latina, the woman. I had become Ms. Latina, the mother, business owner, babysitter, chef, tutor, cab driver and a multitude of other titles. I no longer took the time for myself. I was overwhelmed, harried and looked downright frumpy.
Lucille Roberts has given me my mojo back!
I no longer drag myself down the street.
I sashay.
Swaying my hips from side to side, I walk with my back straight and my head held high. I am Beautiful. I am determined. I am part of a Sisterhood, the Lucille Roberts’ Sisterhood and I am fierce.
I kick arse. Albeit, not as high as I did years ago, but my kicks will one day reach further than they do today. Till then, I know I am in good hands. Lucille Roberts is providing me with the tools. I am not alone. I am part of a sisterhood!
Let’s talk! Do you prefer to workout alone, with a trainer, or in a group? Let us know in the comments!
Disclosure: I am a Lucille Roberts Ambassador. I am given access to the gym and their services so that I can provide an honest review of the same. The aches, pain, lost weight and opinions expressed herein are all mine.
Every Thursday at the Lucille Roberts Gym I meet with a nutritionist and weigh in. I have to admit it’s the most stressful and rewarding day of my week.
At the beginning of the session, the nutritionist obtains my stats using the Ironman Glass InnerScan Body Composition Monitor. It tells us my weight, body fat , body water and muscle mass weight. It also tells me my metabolic age (how old my body believes it is). My metabolic age is 50. I’m hoping to lower this as much as possible by the time March rolls around.
Having a nutritionist work with me has helped me considerably. Every week, she’s given me some ideas that I have been able to incorporate into my lifestyle. She’s also made sure to go at my pace. My body and lifestyle are unique – as are yours; as a result, the nutritionist can’t hand me a one size fits all nutrition plan. It won’t work. Taking into account my lifestyle (stressful), my job (sedentary) and my current fitness level (sedentary), she was able to give me tips on how to jack up my metabolic rate.
Below I’ve noted a few of her suggestions. Keep in mind these were her suggestions to me and may not work for everyone.
Eat a hearty breakfast. It curbs cravings throughout the day.
Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
Drink green tea instead of coffee.
Sleep at least 7 hours a day.
5 egg whites or 1 whole egg. Your choice.
Load up on fiber. It fills you up without bulking you up.
Eat Greek yogurt vs. regular or lowfat yogurt.
No mayo. It adds unnecessary calories.
Do not eat after 8 pm.
Measure. Don’t guess.
Have questions about something found within this post? Read my Disclosure Policy.
Have you used any of the above suggestions to lose weight? Or, do you have any suggestions that would help us in our weight loss journey? Share them with us in a comment!
Disclosure: I am a Lucille Roberts Ambassador. I am given access to the gym and their services so that I can provide an honest review of the same.
Thanks to my wonderful friend Carolyn, I am now a Lucille Roberts Ambassador. I’m beyond excited! I know that this will help me meet my resolution.
My workout sessions started today. In fairytale Ms. Latina land, the boys would wake up and get dressed on time, the dogs would behave and I would be able to get my pre-workout during the 20 block walk to the gym so that I can start my 7:30am training session on time. Of course in reality, Ms. Latina land is very different and I have to fight for my “Me” time.
Is it worth it?
Of course!
Why?
Because I am worth it!
I was invigorated just walking into Lucille Roberts. Seeing the gleaming workout machines, hearing the warm good morning as I passed the check in area and feeling the trainer’s energy invigorated me. I was hyped and raring to go.
Of course, this was before I started my session. My trainer, Diana, went at a pace I could follow but I must admit my legs were like tembleque/pudding and my muscles, or non-muscles in my case, were screaming BASTA/STOP. And this was only after 10minutes, I still had 20 more to go!
Thankfully, I am more determined to lose these 35 pounds than my body is to workout and was able to complete the session. I just hope the next time I’m not so rushed that I don’t wear my pants backward! Yes, Ms. Latina fantasy land…
Let’s Talk! Are you starting a workout regimen this year? How do you incorporate it into your busy life? Share your tips in a comment.
Disclosure: I am a sponsored Lucille Roberts Ambassador; however, all the pain, aches and lost weight is all mine!
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
Put up the decorations, trim the tree, make the coquito and lets bake some cookies!
The holidays just aren’t the same without festive cookies to munch on. Cookies are loved by everyone and they should be shared amongst those closest to you. Baking has always been a part of the celebraciones en mi casa (celebrations at my home). The kids love to get involved in the process as well. They feel so accomplished to see and taste their finished products. A kitchen filled with cookies in the oven is certainly one with lots of love – it’s one of our family traditions.
This Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms recipe from Hersey’s Latino is super easy to prepare and calls for only 6 ingredients, 5 of which you most likely already have in your pantry. Chewy peanut butter blossoms are beautiful and taste so good. It’s hard to eat just one. They glisten on the outside and are chewy on the inside. Topped with a hershey’s kiss, this cookie will be a sure hit!
Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms
Ingredients
About 48 HERSHEY’S KISSES Brand Milk Chocolates
1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
3/4 cup REESE’S Creamy Peanut Butter
2 cups all-purpose biscuit baking mix
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
About 1/4 cup sugar
Directions
1. Heat oven to 375°F. Remove wrappers from chocolates.
2. Beat sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter in large bowl until smooth. Add baking mix and vanilla; blend well. Shape into 1-inch balls; roll in sugar. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
3. Bake 6 to 8 minutes or until very lightly browned (do not overbake). Remove from oven; immediately press chocolate piece in center of each ball. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely. Store in tightly covered container. About 48 cookies.
Variation: CHEWY CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BLOSSOMS: Add 1/4 cup HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Cocoa to baking mix; proceed as above.
So turn on your favorite holiday tune, tighten up your apron and get ready to make this simple recipe a new tasty tradition in your home. Happy Holidays!
Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share?
If you’re a blogger, add a DIRECT link to your recipe below. If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina@latinaonamission.comwith “Sabroso Saturday Recipe” in the Subject line. If I’m able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Because it will raise awareness for heart health! How cool is that?!
If you have never heard of Go Red for Women and/or Go Red Por Tu Corazón, it’s a non-profit organization that aims to raise awareness for heart health in women. As a Latina, I’m also more apt to have heart issues. Studies have proven that Latinas are likely to develop heart disease 10 years earlier than non-Hispanic white women. Scary, isn’t it? I know it freaked me out!
In fact, it’s one of the reasons I became a Go Red Spokesperson and why I would love to turn the WhiteHouse red, but I can’t do it alone. We need 25,000 signatures by January 4, 2012 for the White House to consider our petition to illuminate the building in red to honor National Wear Red Day® and American Heart Month.
Did you know that the U.S. generates over 34 million tons of waste each year, and 14 percent of that is from food scraps alone? Talk about giving new meaning to Mami’s dicho/saying,
“¡Comete eso por que hay niños que quisieran ese bocado!”
[Translation: Eat that because there are children who would love to have that mouthful!]
Regardless of the language, English or Spanish, we don’t want anyone’s Thanksgiving leftovers to become a statistic this holiday season! In fact, I’m so dead set against it that I’m excited to share suggestions on how to turn those left-overs into a savory/sabroso meal, this Tuesday at a virtual cooking class with the fabulous Celebrity Chef George Duran. We’ll have fun, share suggestions and get quick and easy ideas on how to turn your leftovers into left-‘uppers.’ Mmm Mmm Mmm it’s a class you won’t want to miss!
Below are the details.
What:
A virtual cooking school class called Turning Leftovers into Left-‘Uppers’ with the fabulous Celebrity chef George Duran.
When:
Tuesday, November 15, at 1 p.m. ET. It will last 30 minutes.
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we will focus on methods for upgrading leftovers into another special meal, rather than simply re-heating them, making sandwiches or throwing them away. Celebrity chef George Duran will join us via live video feed to demonstrate one of his Thanksgiving left-‘upper’ recipes and answer any questions you might have. You can use the text chat beneath the video player to ask questions and share your own ideas!
I’ll be there with nine other bloggers to co-host the class, and I hope you’ll join us! The bloggers who will be co-hosting with me are:
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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This past week, while at church, a few of the women began chatting about recipes. After listening to them, I was inspired to go home and try a new recipe: Grilled Garlic Lime Tuna.
It was a HUGE hit in my home! It was easy to make. Its nutricious – very high in omega-3 fatty acids and proteins. I loved it. The family loved it. I can’t rave about it enough!
For this recipe, I didn’t have time to get to the fish market and so used frozen tuna. I’m sure it would have tasted better with fresh fish; however, because I used frozen it cut prep time, which was a trade-off I was willing to take.
Also, it took me all of 5 minutes to prepare the tuna. Marinating it took longer. I left it marinating for about 45 minutes on the counter. If you’re pressed for time – 30 minutes will suffice. You can also leave it marinating overnight in the fridge if you want to prepare it ahead of time.
I loved the simplicity of this recipe. I also love how it can be used for a family dinner OR a romantic dinner. It’s not a heavy meal so it won’t weigh you down and looks fabulous when served. This recipe is perfect for when you want to create a lasting impression. Just keep in mind, that the recipe is for two. I doubled it for my own family.
Enjoy & have a Sabroso Saturday!
Grilled Garlic Lime Tuna (Makes 2)
Ingredients
2 Wild Ahi Tuna Steaks
3 tablespoons of Olive Oil
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 medium sized lime (about 2 tablespoons of fresh squeezed lime juice)
1 teaspoon of garlic
1 teaspoon of pepper
2 teaspoons of honey
1 large ziplock bag
Preparation
Add everything, except the Tuna, in a ziplock bag. Seal, shake and mix.
Once mixed, put tuna into the ziplocked marinade mixture. Let marinade for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat grill to medium high, about 375°. Grill for about 6 minutes. Turn and grill for 3 more, or until it’s medium rare, longer if you do not like it as rare – like me!
Serve and enjoy!
If you try the recipe out, let me know! I would love to hear what you thought of it.
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share?
If you’re a blogger, add a DIRECT link to your recipe below. If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina@latinaonamission.comwith “Sabroso Saturday Recipe” in the Subject line. If I’m able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
As a child I loved licorice, especially black licorice. It’s a sweet treat that has followed me as I’ve gotten older but according to the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) this is one treat that I should avoid.
Black Licorice is hazardous to adults over 40. According to the FDA,
“…eating 2 ounces of black licorice a day for at least two weeks could land you in the hospital with an irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia. FDA experts say black licorice contains the compound glycyrrhizin, which is the sweetening compound derived from licorice root. Glycyrrhizin can cause potassium levels in the body to fall. When that happens, some people experience abnormal
heart rhythms, as well as high blood pressure, edema (swelling), lethargy, and congestive heart failure.”
The FDA also warns that regardless of your age, Black Licorice eaters should be aware of the following:
Don’t eat a lot at any one time.
If you have an irregular heart rhythm or muscle weakness, stop eating it at once and see a doctor.
Black licorice can interfere with medications, herbs and dietary supplements. Before eating ask your doctor about possible interactions.
Are you a Black Licorice lover? Will this change your Black Licorice eating habits?
I recently discovered what ”Grade Pending” signage means for a restaurant in New York City.
To bring you up to date, New York City started giving food service establishments, aka restaurants, a letter grade based on the food safety requirements of the New York City Health Code and the State Sanitary Code in mid 2010.
I used to believe that a “Grade Pending” was posted because the retaurant had not been inspected. I was dead wrong. It seems a “Grade Pending” is posted when a restaurant does not do well in the inspection and they are appealing their score. NYC gives the restaurant time to appeal because honestly who wants to eat an establishment with a “C” score? I know I don’t!
According the nyc.gov website:
Grades reflect how well a restaurant complies with the food safety requirements of the New York City Health Code and the State Sanitary Code. When inspectors examine a restaurant’s sanitary conditions and practices, they assign numerical points for different violations of the Health Code. Different violations carry different numbers of points, depending on their nature and severity. The total number of violation points provides a measure of the restaurant’s general condition. Under the new system, the Health Department will use the scores from certain inspections to generate letter grades that are easier to interpret. Here are the grades:
Grade A 0 to 13 points for sanitary violations.
Grade B 14 to 27 points for sanitary violations.
Grade C 28 or more points for sanitary violations.
Grade Pending A restaurant’s B or C grade is not final until the restaurant has had the opportunity to go before the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings Health Tribunal to contest the violations cited against it. Until then, the restaurant has the option to post either the preliminary grade or a card that says “Grade Pending.” Once the grade is final, the restaurant must immediately post the letter grade card and take down the Grade Pending card.
Sanitary violations fall into 3 categories:
1. A public health hazard, such as failing to keep food at the right temperature, triggers a
minimum of 7 points. If the violation can’t be corrected before the inspection ends, the
Health Department may close the restaurant until it’s fixed.
2. A critical violation, for example, serving raw food such as a salad without properly washing
it first, carries a minimum of 5 points.
3. A general violation, such as not properly sanitizing cooking utensils, receives at least 2
points.
While looking at restaurants in my area I found several that had as much as 82 points! Some with “Evidence of mice or live mice present in facility’s food and/or non-food areas.” WOW! If saving money wasn’t reason enough to eat at home, this definitely gave me an incentive!
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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This past week, the boys and I tried a Pam receta/recipe, I received when I began working with Pam. It came with my initial package and contained PAM, a Pyrex baking pan and more [To win your own PAM prize pack click HERE - 5 Winners]. Yet as cool as that was, I have to tell you this recipe was cooler! Why? Because it was super easy to make, the boys LOVED it, and it made enough for three days!
I love being able to cook ahead. It gives me time in the week to relax. Less stress and no mess always makes for a happy Mommy, verdad / right?
If you try the recipe out, let me know! I would love to hear what you thought of it.
Enjoy & have a Sabroso Saturday!
Kickin’ Baked Rigatoni
Ingredients
•PAM Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
•1 package (16 oz) dry rigatoni pasta, uncooked
•1 pound Italian pork sausage links, casings removed
•1 medium onion, chopped
•1 can (28 oz) Hunt’s Crushed Tomatoes
•2 cans (10 oz each) Ro-Tel Hot Diced Tomatoes with Habaneros, undrained
•2 cups shredded part skim mozzarella cheese, divided
Preparation
1.Preheat oven to 375ºF. Spray your baking dish, sides and bottom, with cooking spray. set aside.
2.Cook pasta according to package directions. Do not over-cook.
3.While pasta is cooking, cook sausage and diced onion in large non stick skillet over medium high heat until sausage is crumbled and no longer pink. make sure to stir frequently. Drain.
4.Add both crushed and undrained tomatoes to sausage mixture. Mix well and bring to a boil. reduce heat to medium -low, cover and simmer for about 15 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally!
5.Drain pasta and return it to pan. Add sausage mixture and 1 cup of cheese. Mix lightly. Spoon onto baking dish. Top with remaining 1 cup of cheese.
6. Cover with aluminum foil sprayed lightly with cooking spray, making sure you put the spray side down. Bake about 20 minutes pr until hot.
7. Serve with a side dish (rice, veggies, etc.) and enjoy!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share?
If you’re a blogger, add a DIRECT link to your recipe below. If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina@latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday Recipe” in the Subject line. If I’m able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Enjoy & have a Sabroso Saturday!
Disclosure: LOAM is a Pam sponsored Blogger; however, experiences and thoughts are our own – como siempre! /as always!. You can find coupons and more at PAM’s Facebook Page.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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Earlier this week I went to the market and brought enough food to last at least a month (I hope!). Of course, all that food calls for some serious cooking and baking so I woke up extra early today to make homemade muffins! (Plus, I felt I needed to do something extra for my teen since he cleaned the fridge this week.)
I decided I would make Raspberry Lemon Yogurt muffins because they are simply sabroso / delicious! Pssst don’t tell the boys but I use lots of healthy ingredients, like oatmeal. I couldn’t get them to eat that of their own free will if my life depended on it so this is a great way to sneak it in. Devious, verdad / right?
When baking the muffins, I also made sure to use PAM because it’s NO STICK! Talk about easy clean-up, it’s the best! Just don’t tell the family. I find you get more brownie points if you let them think you slaved over a hot oven and did all the “hard” clean up.
Enjoy & have a Sabroso Saturday!
Raspberry Lemon Yogurt Muffins
Ingredients
PAM Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup quick-cooking oats
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups yogurt
4 tablespoons Fleischmann’s stick
1/4 cup Egg Beaters Original
1 cup Raspberries (I use frozen – cheaper inmy area)
1 Teaspoon grated lemon peel
Preparation
Preheat oven to 325ºF. Spray your baking dish, sides and bottom, with cooking spray. set aside.
Blend together flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in larger bowl.
In another bowl, stir together the yogurt, butter, and Egg Beaters. Pour the yogurt mixture into the center of the dry ingredients. Stir until blended using a rubber spatula. Do NOT overmix. Fold in raspberries and lemon peel.
Divide batter evenly into the muffin pan. Bake about 15 – 20 minutes. You’ll know its done when you can stick a toothpick into center and it comes out clean. .
Remove pan from oven when done and cool for about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and place on a wire rak to cool further.
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina@latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Enjoy & have a Sabroso Saturday!
Disclosure: LOAM is a Pam sponsored Blogger; however, experiences and thoughts are our own – como siempre! /as always!. You can find coupons and more at PAM’s Facebook Page.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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It’s officially Fall. The weather is cooling. The kids are back in school. And me…I’m cooking!
I normally cook my family meals without a recipe. Most were passed down from family member to family member, while bonding over a hot stove or oven. Lately, I’ve been trying to write down those recetas/recipes and posting them as Sabroso Saturday posts, while also interspensing new recipes readers have sent me or I’ve discovered in my new addition to the cocina /kitchen.
Since I test every recipe before posting it on LOAM, to make sure it not only tastes great, but that I have written directions down correctly, I can vouch that my family likes them. With a child who dislikes veggies, another who dislikes anything that looks different and well, limited time, it can be challenging, but it is possible! Plus the money saved from ordering out, puts a smile on my face. I hope it puts one on yours as well!
Below I noted ingredients I used to create the meal. You can substitute as needed if you can not locate the same ingredients near you.
Do you cook more often in the cooler seasons? Let us know in a comment!
King Ranch Chicken
Ingredients
PAM Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
1/4 cup Fleischmann’s Original – stick (Healthier than butter since its cholesterol-free)
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper (To save time, you can buy frozen veggies, just note it costs more)
1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
1 can (10 – 3/4 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 can (10 – 3/4 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10 oz) RO*TEL Original Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies, undrained
2 cups chopped cooked chicken breasts
12 corn tortillas (6 inch) torn into bite size pieces
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Preparation
Preheat oven to 325ºF. Spray your baking dish, sides and bottom, with cooking spray. set aside.
Melt Fleischmann’s in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the bell peppers & onions, stirring continuously for about 5 minutes or until the peppers and onions are tender.
Add both cans of soup, the can of RO*TEL undrained, and the chicken. Stir.
In the baking dish, layer one third of tortillas, chicken mixture and cheese evenly in the dish. Repeat the same layers two more times.
Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes or until it’s hot and bubbly! Remove from oven.
I served my King Ranch Chicken with rice and a side salad; however, you can serve it as a stand alone meal. It’s that filling!
Since I served it with rice and salad, I had enough for two nights. I simply froze the remaining King Ranch Chicken and microwaved it the next day.
NOTE:Since I hate clean up. I spray PAM on all sides of the baking dish before cooking to make clean ups easier. I find this is cheaper than purchasing new aluminium pans every time I bake. Plus it looks so much prettier when I serve a meal in a real baking dish!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina@latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
Enjoy & have a Sabroso Saturday!
Disclosure: LOAM is a Pam sponsored Blogger; however, experiences and thoughts are our own – como siempre! /as always!. You can find coupons and more at PAM’s Facebook Page.
As promised, I am re-starting Sabroso Saturday, also known as Sabroso Sabado – Translation: Tasty Saturday, the recipe blog and twitter hop I previously hosted. I discontinued it for some time because I wasn’t cooking as much. See What is Sabroso Saturday? for more info.
In the future, if I can not create a recipe or post one that has been tested by my familia/family, I will still post the Sabroso Saturday linky so my readers can enjoy the recipes from around the blogosphere. If you are a blogger, feel free to add a direct link to your recipes. With the holidays coming up, I’m sure a few of us could use some new recetas/recipes.
I also wanted to start prompts for those of you who need something to work with. You don’t have to follow the prompt. It is just a suggestion. This week’s prompt is chicken! Create any recipe using chicken and share it with the world… or at least the blogosphere.
I’ll be making an easy peasy Chicken recipe that is BIG on taste using Pam* so stay tuned!
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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With the busyness of this past month, I have to admit I needed a break so the boys and I decided we would go out to dinner. I opted for Haru, a modern Japanese restaurant.
The first time I ate at Haru was as a mystery shopper. Although I wasn’t paid to perform the shop, I was able to enjoy an amazing lunch with a co-worker. I don’t believe I would ever have eaten at Haru if not for the mystery shopper opportunity. I normally eat a homemade lunch. When I did purchase lunch, I would spend no more than $7. However, since the company was picking up the tab for me and one other, we went.
The ambiance was intimate, perfect for a date or business meeting. The servers were attentive, without being obtrusive. When served, I loved the presentation. And the food, ahhh the food … it was sabroso/savory/tasty/delicious! Yes, sabroso means all of those words and Haru’s food was sabroso to the 10th degree!
During this outing, my boys and I were seated in the back with other families. The seating was just right for us. We were able to talk, laugh and catch up to our heart’s content. We also snatched tasted food from each other’s plate. Below are a few of the items we ordered.
Although I can’t give you the recipes for the above, I can suggest you check out your nearest Haru. In fact, our dinner wasn’t too pricey. I spent the same amount I would have spent at an Applebee restaurant, about $120, with tip, and Haru’s meal, service and ambiance was wayyyyy better!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
My boys love pizza. They love pizza with pineapple, chicken, pepper, bacon, sausage, mushrooms and so much more. In fact, they’re pretty to open to eating just about everything as long as it’s on pizza and I have to admit I capitalize on that. Sneaky… hmmm maybe but its a great way to get them to try new things and eat healthier!
ReadySetEat has a Beany Mini Pizza that I plan on trying. It takes about 30 minutes from prep to their stomachs and best of all they can help out with the preparation. It may be psycological but it always seems that my kids are more willing to try a new recipe when they’ve helped prepare it.
It has five ingredients, which is the exact amount of prizes I’ll be giving away! The ConAgra Prize Packs are valued at $50 and will include: a BBQ set, plate set, outdoor table cloth, recipe cards and a sample of ConAgra products. As a Taster Tester, I’ve had the opportunity to use a few of their products, including Hunt’s, La Choy, Peter Pan, Blue Bonnet and a few others, in my meals so I can say without a doubt that the lucky winners will be excited to receive a sampling of ConAgra’s products!
To enter to win these Latinalicious prize packs read on…
MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:
Go to ReadySetEat’s Beany Mini Pizza recipe and submit a review than come back and let me know what User name you used to enter!
EXTRA ENTRIES – LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY:
1. Subscribe to my blog via email or feed, follow my blog publicly with Google Friends and/or “Like” Latina On a Mission’s Facebook page for one (1) entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know!
2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet URL in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away!
Enter to win a ConAgra prize pack valued at $50! http://bit.ly/GW19a Five Winners! #Giveaway #MsLatina #food
3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for two (2) extra entries.
4. Leave a comment on ANY other post for THREE (3) extra entries. Each comment must have been posted after June 24, 2011. Let me know you did so in the comments below.
5. Share this post or another on Stumble Upon, Technorati, Digg, and/or Facebook. Each post shared gives you 3 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!
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Giveaway ends July 28, 2011 at 11:59 P.M. EST
Open to US residents
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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 7 days to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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Why does it seem like summer vacation is the hardest time of the year for parents? When I was younger it was so much easier, perhaps because I was the one playing! Yet now with Andrew, my little Prince, at home, I’m cooking, cleaning and entertaining so much more than I normally do. Even without the launch of my new business, Stiletto Media, I was racing around, but now that Andrew’s home I barely have time to make the meals I used to make!
If you live in New York City you know that take out costs a mini fortune. Just last week I spent as much as I normally spend on one month of groceries. I nearly fainted away when I tallied up those receipts and I soooo don’t even want to jump on the scale. My jeans are mocking me enough!
So I’ve decided to teach the little one how to make some simple meals. I can survive on oatmeal, yogurt and a banana for breakfast/lunch but he likes a little more crunch. We’ve started with egg meals. They’re easy and he can make them quickly if he’s hungry. One of the first recipes I taught him was egg salad. I know that there are a million variations on the Internet but this is the basic egg salad version that I taught him. It’s simple. He can even get a little crazy, or not, with the veggies he throws into it based on how he feels that day. He’s not a normally get crazy type of food eater so I’m really hoping the thrill of making his own meal will take him out of that safety zone.
How do you spice up your egg salad? Let me know in a comment!
Ingredients
4 hard boiled eggs
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoon of mayonnaise
1 tablespoon of mustard
chopped pepper
chopped onion
chopped celery
Preparation
Chop hard boiled eggs into small pieces.
Mix mayonnaise, mustard and eggs.
Add chopped pepper, onion and celery. Add/omit as you like!
Salt and Pepper to taste.
Refrigerate for approximately 20 minutes. (The time it takes my son to clean off the counter and wash his own hands!)
Serve on toasted bread.
Enjoy!
NOTE: Before preparing the egg salad, I chop peppers, onions and celery and place them in their own covered bowl. This allows my son to add or not add to his delight. I also love having them already chopped because it makes meal preparation so much easier! All I have to do is grab and add. I can add it to omelets, tuna fish, beans, soups, salsa, and a slew of other things! I’ve even caught Andrew grabbing the bowl of chopped peppers and eating it like popcorn as he watches a movie! He loves peppers and that’s one of the reason’s I decided to grow my own window sill pepper plant, which by the way is growing quite nicely!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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I learned how to make homemade pepinillos/pickles when Karl, my teen, was young. Thank goodness I did, because not only does he love them but so does Andrew, my ten year old! Word to the wise, once you have homemade pickles you’ll never buy store brought!
I got the recipe from a book I received at the Food Market almost 16 years ago. As you can see by the picture below it’s been through alot - don’t judge me ok
It’s simple and I’m sure it’ll get a lot of use during your backyard BBQs (Hamburgers and pickles? YUM!). Just remember, you have to leave it in the fridge FIVE days so plan ahead!
¡Buen provecho!
Quick Pickles
Ingredients
7 cups cucumbers cut very thin
1 cup onions cut very thin
1 cup green peppers cut very thin
2 cups sugar
1 cup vinegar
1 Tablespoon of salt
1 Tablespoon of celery seeds
Preparation
Cut cucumbers, onion and green pepper very thin.
Combine sugar, vinegar, salt and celery seeds. Mix well.
Pour mixture over vegetables. Cover and refrigerate for 5 days before serving. Stir twice each day (IMPORTANT).
Btw, celery seed is good for alot of things. It has calming properties and can be used in tea, soups, and a slew of other recetas / recipes! Read more about it here: Spineuniverse and on Wikipedia
Enjoy!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
When I lived in Long Island, we had a huge backyard, almost half an acre. I loved it because I had a garden. But when I moved back to the city, I couldn’t take it with me. In the beginning it didn’t bother me. I love living in the city! But I missed my garden.
So what can a City Girl with country desires do?
Plant a window sill garden, using every available space!
This is my green pepper plant. I’m already envisioning what I’ll make when these get bigger!
The bottom little one fell as I was setting up the holding stick. What a difference from the one above!
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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Now that summer’s out, I’ve fully stocked my cupboards with ingredients to make some grab and go treats for me and the kids. Its a great way to teach them how to get around the kitchen, while also helping me save some chabitos/pennies! I have to admit it’s also a good way for me to get my sweets on without adding on the pounds.
The energy bars featured below are super easy to make. The recipe, another one by Bárbara Trujillo Gómez, is very simple. You don’t need anything special to make these snack bars. The ingredients can be found in any supermarket. Best of all, you can double the recipe and take them along on family outings or leave them in the fridge for those moments when you just need something sweet!
Let me know what you think!
Grab ‘n’ Go Honey Strawberry Granola Energy Bars
Serves 6
Ingredients
• ⅔ cup of honey
• Cooking spray
• 1 egg white
• 2 cups old fashioned oats
• ⅓ cup of canola oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup coconut flakes
• 1 cup sugar-free strawberry preserves
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Spray a 7 by 10 ¾-inch nonstick baking pan with cooking spray. Lay a piece of parchment paper over the pan big enough to allow excess paper to hang over the sides. Spray parchment paper lightly with cooking spray.
3. In a medium bowl beat the egg white until frothy.
4. Stir in oats, honey, oil, vanilla extract and coconut flakes. Mix well.
5. Set aside ⅓ of the mixture.
6. With a rubber spatula spread the remaining mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing lightly to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven.
7. Spread the preserves over the crust of granola and sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the preserves.
8. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the preserve filling is bubbling on the edges.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least one hour. Cut into squares and enjoy!
If you doubled the recipe, you can save the extras for later. Wrap them in parchment paper and store in the fridge. I am not sure how long they will keep because they don’t last longer than a day or two in my home. I’m guessing they should keep for at least a week.
Also, if you don’t like strawberries you can substitute it with another fruit. You can also omit the coconut. My sons don’t like coconut so I make the recipe without it. If you liked this receta/recipe, you can find other recetas/recipes by going to the honey site.
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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I love shakes! They’re a quick and easy way to get a nutricious balanced meal on the go. They’re also perfect for hot, summer days when you just don’t want to slave away in the kitchen! Plus, as a Mom to a tween and teen, I know that they can handle making a shake on their own so I can grab some extra Zzz.
I received this recipe from Barbara Trujillo Gomez, a fitness expert, yogo instructor and a American Heart Association volunteer (LOVE!). She’s also joined forces with the National Honey Board to come up with some creative ways of cooking with miel/honey.
Honey, a natural energy booster and sweetener, is perfect when you are watching your weight or trying to get fit. Its organic, inexpensive, and can be used as a sugar substitute. Personally, I’m a sugar addict. I blame it on my genes. A meal doesn’t feel complete unless I have something sweet so honey is sure to help me lose weight. Hopefully, that means you’ll see a more svelte Ms. Latina at BlogHer! ¡Wepa!
Below is Barbara’s Whey Better Berry and Honey Energy Boost Shake recipe. (What a mouthful huh?) You can find other recetas/recipes by going to the honey site.
Ingredients
Serves 2-3
3-4 tbsp honey
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup skim milk
1 scoop vanilla whey protein
1/2 cup strawberries
1/2 cup blueberries
1/4 cup raspberries
1/2 banana
3 cubes of ices
Preparation
Slice strawberries and banana
Combine all ingredients in a blender
Blend.
You’re done! Just make sure that the ice is crushed and all ingredients are well mixed before serving.
¡Buen provecho!
NOTE: You can use any fruit combination; however, keep in mind that berries are full of antioxidants!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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I’m not sure if you noticed, or were just to kind not to mention, that last week I missed a Sabroso Saturday recipe post. Part of it is that I have been very busy with family, but its also because of a surprise my youngest gave me.
It seems he, in his great enthusisiam to help me clean the pots, damaged or threw some of them away.
I know you must be wondering how my 10 year old could have done such a thing. Well, let me tell you, it had me just as baffled when one day I was looking for my cooking pots and this is how I saw the bottom of one pot.
No, my dear readers that is not an image of the crackle nailpolish that’s all the rage right now. That’s the bottom of my rice pot which he scrubbed so vigoriously. It seems he was sooooo excited to help me with the dishes that he put all his might into taking the pegao /burnt rice off the bottom. (FYI, some Latinos intentionally make the bottom of the rice burn because of the taste/ flavor it obtains while cooking) Anyway, my youngest thought he should use a fork or spoon to remove the pegao from the bottom of the pot not realizing that he was actually scraping my pot. Don’t you just love it?!
As for the missing pots, he thought I had placed several pots by the side of the sink so that he could dispose of them when he completed his second chore, taking out the garbage. I must admit the garbage is under the sink so the excuse may seem plausible if I didn’t know how much he loves doing dishes.
After those incidents, I went on hiatus. If the dishes could not be washed properly, I could not cook. They would eat sandwiches, cereal or air! Hmpf.
Thankfully, for them, they were saved before starving. My mother, their Mama, brought me this beautiful set of pots and gave them to me this week!
What does this mean for you? Well, I’m cooking again and doing it with sabor, so make sure you check out next week’s receta/recipe! As for the pots, what do you think?
Should I start washing them myself? Let me know in a comment!
Till next week eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
Abrazos/Hugs!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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As a working woman, my time is precious. Having two growing boys doesn’t make it any easier. They eat all the time! Ordering out is easy. Eating unhealthy is easy. Finding the time to cook AND make it healthy can be hard. Many times I felt as if I was always in the kitchen, cooking or cleaning. It was hard. It was a time sapper.
Watching others who seemed to be able to do it, made me realize my mistakes. It wasn’t that cooking was hard! It was that I was unprepared! Their suggestions have made my life easier and I hope they make yours easier as well!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
RICE
My family eats alot of rice. They would eat it everyday if I let them. Knowing this, I always have it on hand. It makes life easier for me when I’m rushed. That’s why I cook it ahead of time and freeze it. Doing this allows me save time during the weekday rush and also helps us eat healthy (I store it in single servings.) The boys can easily take it out of the freezer and pop it in the microwave when needed and I don’t worry about how they’re eating! Win-win.
Plain Rice:
Cook rice as you normally would.
Wait for rice to cool and separate into single servings.
Place the servings into ziplock freezer bag. I use the small bags and wash them after use (Saves money right?).
To cook, take one ziplock bag of rice from the freezer, remove from bag and place on a microwavable plate. Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of water over rice. Do not cover. Microwave for 1 minute (varies per microwave). Fluff with a fork and serve with meat and sides.
For variety, you can also use the cooked rice to make stir fried rice or vegetable fried rice, which brings me to my second suggestion.
VEGETABLES
My boys would never eat veggies if I didn’t make them easily accesible. Shoot, I’m sure I wouldn’t either if I didn’t prepare them for easy eating! They’re healthy, provide a ton of vitamins and fiber and much healthier than sweets. I also save money by doing it at home myself – two great motivators!
Cut veggies and fruits to bite size portions for snacks and salads.
For omelets and vegetable fried rice, cut bell peppers, onions, mushrooms and any other veggies you normally enjoy. Pack in ziplock bags. If you will use it within a few days, store in fridge. If not, freeze for future use.
MEATS
I’m a fan of meal planning. Having a theme makes my life easier and the boys pretty much know what to expect. One week may be chicken week, another ground turkey, etc. I can cook ahead and also use left overs for the next day’s meal.
Example: If its ground turkey week, I would make the Budget Friendly Meatballs (double or triple the batch according to your family size). I would use the recipe to make Spaghetti and Meatballs on Mondays, use left overs on Tuesday to make Amarillo Relleno (Stuffed Sweet Plaintain) - smash the meatballs to put inside the amarillos/sweet plaintains, have 2 meatless nights (see below), make Chili on another night and on Sunday enjoy dinner with extended family/friends before heading home to plan next week’s meal.
MEATLESS DINNERS
I always have two meatless days in the week, sometimes three, depending on my budget and how I feel. On those days, we may have breakfast for dinner, homemade pizza, fish, or vegetable dishes, like the Sabroso Saturday: Vegan Stuffed Peppers. Meatless nights give us variety. Since the meals are easier to make, its also a great night for the boys and I to cook together.
Do you meal plan? Share in a comment below!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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I discovered this receta/recipe almost 10 years ago while looking through some old cookbooks. Over the years I’ve changed a few ingredients here and there to make it healthier. Since the healthy changes haven’t taken away any flavor from the meal, the boys love the combined flavors of the chicken, green plantain and cheese making it a family favorite.
I like the spin this recipe gives my weekly chicken meals. Its also very economical! The addition of the plaintain increases the price of this chicken meal by about a dollar, maybe less, depending on where I purchase them.
Best of all, the Cheesy Plantain Stuffed Chicken Breasts are cooked in such a way that it’s much healthier than using fried plaintains as a side dish!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
Cheesy Plantain Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients
4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
2 Tablespoons of I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter
1 medium plaintain
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon of sugar
1/4 cup of nuts ( I like sunflower seeds but you can use chopped pecans or any you like.)
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro
4 slices of cheese ( I use American but you can use any kind!)
PAM
Preparation
Heat oven to 375°. Spray a baking pan with PAM.
With a knife, create a pocket in the chicken by cutting a slit in the side of each chicken breast. Set aside.
In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter until sizzling. add sliced plantain. Not sure how to prepare a plantain? Follow steps 1-4 from the Baked Plantain Chips recipe.
Cook plantain over medium heat till golden brown, flipping once. Remove from skillet and salt to taste.
In the same skillet add the remaining butter and sunflower seeds. Cook over medium heat. Make sure you stir constantly. Remove after 1-2 minutes.
Add sugar to sunflower seeds and stir.
Stuff each chicken breast with 1/2 slice of cheese and cooked plantains. Top each with cilantro and remaining cheese. Close the chicken.
Place stuffed chicken the greased baking pan. Spoon sunflower seeds on top.
Cover pan and bake for about 15 minutes.
Uncover pan and continue baking until chicken is no longer pink (app. 10 minutes)
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
As one of the Go Red For Women and Go Red Por Tu Corazon spokeswomen, I am passionate about heart health. Knowing that women and Latinas especially suffer from heart disease and that we can lower our risks by eating healthier has inspired me to make changes in my family’s lifestyle, which I hope to pass onto YOU, my readers. It’s one of the reason’s I started Sabroso Saturday! I use it to share and find healthy heart healthy recipes.
As a non-profit, Go Red For Women obtains funds via donations and sponsors. This year Macy’s, Go Red For Women’s national sponsor, is raising funds for Heart Health with FREE Mother’s Day cards. You can help contribute and help raise the amount donated by sending a FREE Mother’s Day card from Macy’s Facebook page through May 8. Just make sure you select Go Red For Women as the charity. If you do, Macy’s will donate $5 for each card created, up to $400,000 total!
As one of five non-profits competing for those dollars, your support is important so please create and send at least one card between now and Mother’s Day.
If you want to send cards to multiple people, be sure to create separate cards for each person to make them count.
Also, feel free to share this information on your Facebook or Twitter account using the sample post below.
Macy’s w/donate $5 to Go Red For Women 4 evry FREE Mother’s Day card sent. Just select it as the charity! http://on.fb.me/ln0TtY #MsLatina
From my heart and countless other women’s heart’s thank you!
Did you wait till the last minute to purchase your Mother’s Day gift and now don’t know what to do? DON’T DESPAIR!
It’s not too late! Here are a few ideas that I thought were worth sharing.
Cook a home made meal. Get ideas by downloading this Free eCookbook, featuring 28 pages of Mother’s Day recipe ideas for brunch and dessert. Click HERE to download the Free eCookbook. Don’t want to cook? Present the cookbook as a gift, including the ingredients to one of the recipes!
FTD and Blooms Today have Next Day or Same Day delivery, while Restaurant.com gift certificates can be delivered electronically for those Moms that are far away.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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This past week, while at the Latin Billboard Awards, I desperately wanted a hearty breakfast meal for dinner.
I must admit, as the other bloggers ohhed and ahhed over the artists on the red carpet, I was feasting on an imaginary breakfast meal. At one point, a small moan escaped my lips, as I stared with unfocused eyes at an extremely gorgeous man.
Another blogger kidded me about it. Little did he know I wasn’t feasting on him, but on the below Ham and Cheese Potato Tart that was in my head! Ay yai yai!
Trust me if you had a bite of this Ham and Cheese Potato Tart you would understand why!
To get the fullHam and Cheese Potato Tart recipe click here. Note, when creating the recipe I used fresh onions not onion powder. I also used fresh veggies, adding green, red and yellow bell peppers, tomatoes, carrots, and celery instead of frozen veggies. It took longer, but it was soooo worth it!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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I’m so excited! I received the “100 Recipes Every Woman Should Know” from Glamour. As a Glammy Glambassador, I was given a copy to review before it hit stores. I haven’t had time to create any of the recipes but have already circled a few to make, including today’s recipe. I love it because of it’s simplicity and heart healthy omega-3s.
They also have a recipe they claim can get you engaged, called The Engagement Chicken. You can see the story behind the chicken below.
With those testimonies, I’m not sure I want to make it anytime soon! I think I’ll wait till I meet the almost perfect man
So on to today’s featured Sabroso Saturday recipe, the Bikini Season Baked Salmon, which I copied from their book.
Bikini Season Baked Salmon
Ingredients
Four 8 ounce skin -on salmon fillets
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons capers
Preparation
Preheat oven to 400° F. Put the salmon skin-side down in a ceramic or glass baking pan. Rub the salmon fillets with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Let the salmon sit in the pan for 10 minutes.
Drizzle the white wine over the salmon, then sprinkle 1/4 cup parsley on top; save the remaining parsley to use later. Put the pan in the oven and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon fillets are opaque.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, capers, remaining parsley, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, Top each salmon fillet with lemon juice mixture and serve immediately.
That’s it!
You’re done. Simple and sweet. But don’t let that fool you! This receta/recipe is jam packed with heart-healthy omega-3s. Why is that important? Because omega-3s helps your body burn fat much quicker so enjoy it with gusto!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
A sabroso/savory meal cooking on the stove, soft music playing in the background, perhaps Luther Vandross singing “Never Too Much”, Teddy Pendergrass crooning “Turn Off the Lights”, Maxwell reminding him just how “Fortunate” he is, or a more upbeat Bruno Mars belting out “Just The Way You Are”, and you … wearing a perfectly, tantalizing outfit.
The door rings. Your heart skips a beat. It’s time.
You grab a wineglass filled with Amitage, a red wine with a subtle spiciness and silky mouthfeel, as you head to the door. You take a deep breath. You’re ready.
You swing the door open. His eyes travel over you. His face says it all. You wrap your arms around him and lovingly give him a kiss. He sighs. You giggle, hand him the wineglass, lead him inside and close the door.
Scene 2
As you open your eyes, you stretch, catlike. You lay in bed, listening. The quiet is intoxicating.
You turn slowly, savoring every movement. Your eyes fall on your husband. He looks so serene, so unlike his waking demeanor. He’s been having such a hard time at work. They laid off a few of his co-workers and he’s been working longer hours. Stress hasn’t allowed him to get a fitful night’s sleep in a long time. It finally caught up to him last night.
Your eyes travel to the window as a soft breeze stirs the curtains. You have an idea, one you’re sure he’ll enjoy. It will let him relax, get his mind off the issues at work, while giving you and the children some time with him. You slowly get out of bed, head to the door and close it. You don’t want to wake him or the children.
You can’t wait! You know it will be a day to remember.
Scene 3
You’re so excited your girlfriends are coming over. It’s been so long since you’ve all gotten together.You have so much to catch up on. You can’t wait to tell them all about your trip to Santo Domingo. You met the hottest Snorkeling Instructor. Seriously, the pictures don’t do Jose justice. Sighhhhh…
After work, you run to the supermarket to pick up snacks and three bottles of Cabernet Sauvigon. You know you and your friends will enjoy a glass or two as you catch up. Not only do the hints of dark chocolate and spice make this a wonderful wine, but its also very inexpensive at $8 a bottle.
You make it home right before the bell rings. You open the door to shrieks of glee! It’s going to be a Latinalicious night, indeed.
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The above scenes remind me of the movie “French Kiss”, when Kevin Cline stated :
“Wine is like people. The wine takes all the influences in life all around it, it absorbs them and it gets its personality.” French Kiss (1995) – Luc (Kevin Kline)
Just like the scenes above, wines vary. For many, like me, selecting the perfect bottle wine can be confusing. Which wine should I choose? Red or White? Does it depend on the circumstances, as noted in the scenes above? And most importantly, at least for me, how much should I spend for a quality bottle?
I recently attended a meeting with Juan Muñoz-Oca, the Head Winemaker for Columbia Crest. During our meeting, we discussed the questions above, as well as as the origins of Columbia Crest’s reasonably priced wines, their various red and white blends, and Juan Muñoz-Oca’s lifelong passion for winemaking.
Below is a short video detailing which wines to choose based on the occasion and foods served. I apologize for the background noise. We were at a very popular New York location.
Mr. Muñoz-Oca also talked about his family and their passion for winemaking. He came alive when he spoke about his family history. “I’ve been involved with grapes since I was a little boy – my grandfather was in the industry and his father was in the industry – it’s all I’ve known,” he said. They are a family of winemakers, receiving their very first taste (literally) shortly after birth!
Mr. Muñoz-Oca passion for wine is evident in the success he’s found as a winemaker. He also stands out because he fuses his Argentine cultura/culture into each bottle. It’s noted in the sweetness of the Moscato, the subtle spiciness of the Amitage, and the hints of chocolate and spice of the Cabernet Sauvignon. They are wines of distinction for under $12, that can be used in various scenarios, as shown above.
I raise my glass in a toast to Mr. Muñoz-Oca for pouring his love and passion into each bottle!
¡Salud!
Btw, Wine when taken in moderation is a proven stress reliever, romance builder, and great for the heart. In fact, the American Heart Association has stated that it can produce “small increase in HDL cholesterol”. What an incentive to partake in a glass or two a week.
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Disclosure: I was not compensated for the above review. I did, however, receive wine for review. I used the wine in one of the above scenes. I’ll stay mum as to which one!
Last September, The President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition and the First Lady’s Let’s Move! initiative to fight childhood obesity came together to form the “Million PALA Challenge“.
The Million PALA Challenge has set a goal. They want to motivate one million Americans to jumpstart or maintain a healthy lifestyle. Adults are asked to commit 30 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week, for six weeks. Upon completion, they will receive a certificate of recognition signed by President Obama himself! Children, between the ages of 6-17, are asked to complete 60 minutes of activity. It’s open to all ages, backgrounds, and fitness abilities.
Latinas are not immune. In fact, Hispanic adults suffering from obesity and its health repercussions are at a staggering high. Sadly, our bad habits are also trickling down to our children. According to the Centers for Disease Control
Hispanic adults have the second highest rate of obesity at 27.8% (behind non-Hispanic blacks).
Hispanic women have a higher rate of obesity than men.
Obesity in pre-school aged children (2-4 years old) ranks high among Hispanic children at 18.5%.
To help curb this trend, Discovery Familia, a Spanish language network dedicated to the Hispanic Moms and their children, has decided to join forces with the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition. It introduced a new television series called “Bo on the Go“. The series will promote physical activity in a positive and fun way using characters pre-school children can relate to. The series airs from Monday to Friday at 12 pm EST / 2 PM PT.
Discovery Familia will also promote the Million PALA Challenge on their website. In fact, the first 1,000 people to sign up at www.discoveryfamilia.com and complete the Million PALA Challenge will receive a FREE “I took the PALA Challenge” t-shirt!
Will you join Discovery Familia and the Million PALA Challenge?
Disclosure: Discovery Familia has partnered with bloggers, such as me, to spread the word about the Million PALA Challenge. As part of that program, I received compensation.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
We have bloggers who post family friendly recipes, gluten free recipes, authentic Mexican recipes and so much more! They tantalize the taste buds, make your mouth water with their photography and keep you body running with their wholesome goodness.
It was AMAZING to see in real life. To witness the passion in the session was incredible. They opened my world and continue to do so every Saturday when they link up below. Today I thank them and YOU for giving me and my boys something to look forward to!
Vamos let’s eat!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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My mother grew up in an era when women were establishing themselves. They no longer defined themselves as homemakers and caregivers. In fact, it distressed them to be called so! As a result, my mother avoided any duty that lumped her into those roles, including cooking. I didn’t witness a woman’s love of cooking till I was in my teens but by then my mother’s attitude had been instilled.
As I got older and moved out on my own, I realized I was at a great disadvantage. I didn’t know how to shop for food and I didn’t know how to cook. Thankfully, ,I had wonderful friends who would did it for me! Even my first candlelight dinner with my son’s father was cooked by a friend. All I did was place it on the plates.
As I’ve grown, I’ve learned how much I truly missed. The thrill of making a home cooked meal is intoxicating! The joy of seeing a loved ones eyes light up as they bite into a morsel you created can not be replaced by a store brought meal. As my little one told me just this week, “It’s the love you put in it that makes it special.” He’s right. That love can’t be brought but it can be learned. I am a testament to that!
So today, I bring you a versatile side dish that can be made in the blink of an eye. Although normally fried, I bake it. It can be used as a side for pasta dishes, seafood, chicken and salads. It can also be eaten alone as a snack while watching a movie or spending time with friends. It goes perfectly with milk or with a bottle of sweet wine.
It is also chock full of Vitamin A, C, B6 and folate. Don’t believe me? Check out this article!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
Baked Plantain Chips
Ingredients
2 Green Plantains
Sea salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)
PAM
Preparation
1. Cut the ends of the plantain off, as shown below.
2. Slice the plantain in the center, as shown below.
3. Peel the plantain skin off, as shown below. Remove all the skin and toss.
4. Slice the plaintain into thin slices, as shown below.
5. Spray PAM onto a baking tray. Arrange sliced plantains in the tray, making sure they are not stacked on top of one another. Spray PAM on top of the plantain and season to taste.
6. Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes on one side. Turn and bake for another 10-15 minutes depending on how crispy you like the plantain.
7. Remove, place on a platter and enjoy!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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This weekend the boys and I are celebrating the youngest 10th birthday. Although he will always be my baby, he’s no longer a little boy. He’s even found an one underarm hair today! Talk about momentous!
So although I didn’t have time to do much cooking this week, I hope you did. Many of my family, friends and readers rely on the Sabroso Saturday recipes for new ideas.
If you did or even if you didn’t, feel free to leave my Prince Andrew a birthday wish below. It would truly make his day!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
Have you ever wondered how to substitute not so healthy ingredients with healthy ingredients?
I know I did!
I had a ton of questions, like…
What could I use as a butter substitute?
Is there such a thing as a salt substitute?
What could I use to make a meatless taco?
These were all questions that vexed me on my journey to a healthy life. I needed to lower our cholestoral and my teen’s blood pressure, naturally, without medication. I knew it could be done. I heard others had accomplished it, yet had no clue where to begin.
Through trial and error, I succeeded. Yet I made mistakes along the way. Mistakes that changed the quality of our food. Mistakes that made my children cringe at the word “healthy”. Mistakes that almost, but not quite, made me want to give up.
It was hard.
I knew I had to continue for our health but I was disheartened with the taste. I craved salt. I craved sweets. I craved sabor/flavor!
Thankfully, I discovered the Healthier Substitutions on ReadySetEat. It provided me with a list of healthier alternatives, answering the questions I had above and than some. It now hangs on my refrigarator door; as a result, I no longer make the mistakes I once did.
My boys no longer fear the word healthy and neither do I. We embrace it.
Check it out! It’ll transform your mealtimes!
Disclosure: I was hired by Ready Set Eat to review recipes. The lower cholestoral and blood pressure is just a side benefit that I can’t stop gushing about!
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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During my trip to Austin, Texas, my boys and I visited a Mongolian restaurant aptly called Mongolian Grille. Inside they offered a healthy buffet. Customers were allowed to load up plates with noodles, vegetables, fruits and chicken, pork or beef, if desired. After making your selections, you create your own sauce at the sauce bar and present it to the “Grill Master” [I forgot to ask his name]. You can see a video below.
The dishes we ordered are easy to replicate at home with a wok. I included ingredients that were available at the buffet below to give you an idea of what to include in your own recipe. I am sure there are a slew of other options that can be included, so go ahead be daring and throw it in!
NOTE: I suggested ingredients but did not write down amounts needed. This would vary based on taste. For example, my 9 year old loves pineapples so I would add extra for him, while adding less for my teen who is not a great fan.
Possible Vegetable and Fruit Ingredients:
Broccoli
Celery
Tomatoes
Bell peppers
Mushrooms
Pineapple
Tofu
Green Onions
White Onions
Snap Peas
Eggs
Possible Meat Ingredients:
Grilled chicken (grilled without seasoning)
Grilled beef (grilled without seasoning)
Noodles
Egg noodles OR regular noodles prepared according to package directions
Sauce:
I took a picture of their sauce combination. To view a larger image click on the photo. Note, “L” means ladle. Their ladle was mid sized.
Preparation:
Cook noodles according to package.
Grill meat/tofu. I did not season the meat or tofu beforehand. I felt it would take away from the flavor of the sauces; however, if you prefer, you can season to taste.
Cut vegetables to bite size, making sure to core and remove any seeds as needed. Do the same for any fruits added.
Spray wok with Pam. Add veggies, fruits, meat and sauce to wok.
Make sure sauce covers ingredients and stir.
Once browned, add noodles. Mix well.
Remove from flame after app. 2-3 minutes.
You can see a video of the “Grill Master” below! For those of you wondering, the voices in the background below to me and Andrew. We were so excited when we saw the finished product (after 4:00), we couldn’t hold back the ohhhs and ahhhs!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well.
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
********************
In the summertime, my Mami would always get a break from cooking when we went to City Island. City Island was known among Latinos in the Bronx as the place to go for surprisingly tasty and cheap seafood. It holds some of my fondest memories of not just food, but of family outings, including my mother and my first date with my stepfather, Mario.
I was 4 years old and it was the first time I had ever gone to a “classy” restaurant. My mother and I dressed up for our outing with bell bottoms and polyester shirts. I have to say we looked stylish! Mario was equally impressed when he pulled up in his white Cadillac and whistled. Oh how I loved that car and man! As they whispered sweet nothings to each other, I sang my tiny little heart out in the backseat. At one point, I can even recall grabbing the driver’s backrest to get closer to Mario’s ear. He said I was the best singer EVER. After hearing that, I didn’t want to disappoint him and sang even louder! The poor man had the patience of a saint and just laughed!
I fell in love with my stepfather that day, as did my Mom. In his eyes, we were Queens; as a result, we became Queens.
Although I didn’t have my first taste of seafood till many years later, it was in City Island that I first saw and smelled the exotic aroma of seafood.
To this day, when I make a seafood dish, it conjures up memories of those long ago days and my beloved Daddy, Mario. Days spent by the City Island pier chasing geese or great white egrets, with my older brother, while my Mami and Daddy snuggled in the car or he playfully chased them with us. He may have passed away but those moments will forever remain a part of me, brought to mind each and every time I create a seafood dish or visit the water.
I may not be able to share him with my sons, but I can share his love of food, particularly seafood. And I do. Each and every time, I lovingly create a dish, I share a memory. So today, I share a dish that is not only tasty but makes you feel as if summer is right around the corner. As you create the dish and savour the tilapia, may you also enjoy its simplicity and the carefree moments its conjures!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well.
¡Buen provecho!
Tilapia with Black Beans and Corn
Serving Size 4 servings (1 topped fillet each)
Calories 274
Ingredients
1 can (15 oz each) Rosarita® Premium Whole Black Beans, drained, rinsed
1 can (10 oz each) Ro*Tel® Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, drained
Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
Before I had children, I would come home and eat a plate of cereal for dinner and call it a night. However, now that I have a family, gone are the days that I can just grab a can or a box and call it a meal.
Home cooked meals are now the norm. Meals bond us. Together, my sons and I, make our meals. One peels, one chops and another sets the table. Afterwards we take turns doing dishes. I have to admit, most of the time it’s not “my day” but its not my fault, the chart rules!
Yet the one thing that hasn’t changed from my pre-children days is the need to make dinner quickly. It’s no longer from a can or box (Thankfully!) but it has to edible in less than 30 minutes. Our life dictates it!
Thankfully, ReadySetEat has a slew of recipes that can be made in under 30 minutes.
Want variety? They got it!
Crave a healthy meal? It’s here!
Need flavor? Look no further!
Even better, ReadySetEat lets you know when your supermarket has a recipe ingredient on sale. Just enter your zip code and it will let you know which supermarkets in your area have a sale.
What does that mean?
It means in 1, 2, 3 you’ll be ready to eat! No more rushing around at the last minute, trying to find a take out menu, when you can make a savory home cooked meal that will satisfy your palette AND save you money!
It doesn’t get any better than that!
Do you cook every night? How long does it normally take?
Disclosure: I was hired by Ready Set Eat to review recipes. The glee at getting a hearty and healthy dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes is all my own!
Who said staying fit had to be expensive? Now you can download the the Nike Training Club (“NTC’) to help you stay motivated and reach your full potential for FREE!
NTC is a full body workout training app that caters to different levels of fitness, including beginners, intermediate and advanced levels. It has more than 60 workouts, including 90 strength, cardio and core training drills. The multi-dimensional, multi-directional drills are made to challenge the body to get the maximum result.
Limited on time? No worries you can choose between 15, 30 and 45 minutes workouts based on your time constraints.
In a class, as I was with Rihanna’s fitness trainer, Ary Nuñez, at the gym, on a track or on a treadmill, this app will ensure you are maximizing your workout via step by step instructions, video demos and the voice of a Nike instructor to keep you motivated. It can even provide you with your own cheering squad if you update your status on Facebook. Each “Like” received on said status will produce a loud applause!
The app is available in nine (9) languages: English (American and UK), French, Chinese (Simple), Chinese (Traditional), German, Italian, Japenese, Portugeuese (text only/English voiceover) and Spanish.
So go ahead and download your very own personal trainer and cheering squad! You deserve it!
“Be” such a small word, yet full of power. It’s not passive. It’s full of action, high power, gut wrenching, live out loud, pulsating, energetic action. It was a word I felt. It was a word I became at the New York City Nike event.
Held at Chelsea Piers, the Nike Event showcased Nike’s newest line, the FREE/FREE XT Footwear in a highly innovative and all encompassing, digitally oriented setting. As you entered, you beheld Nike images emblazoned on the walls. They surrounded us. Women running, jumping, squatting … BEing.
Their expressions were fiery. They knew their potential. They were one with their bodies. They were….
Free.
-adjective: unrestrained personally
And so was I. I was alive. I was unrestrained and unchained by my daily obligations as I ran, jumped and pranced about the studio. Surrounded by others, who like me, were wearing the FREE clothing line and FREE XT Footwear, I too was on fire, as I followed the moves outlined by Nike’s app, the Nike Training Club. At that moment, while exercising in my green FREE XT Footwear and Nike activewear, I felt as if I could conquer the world!
We jumped, squated and ran. We did sit-ups, and worked the weight balls. It was invigorating!
Encouraging us was none other than Rihanna’s fitness trainer, Ary Nuñez. She is a dynamo! Using the Nike Training Club app she made sure we were on the ball! I have to admit, towards the end, I tried to sneak out a few times but she called me on it. She would not let me give up or walk out on my body. She knew my potential and she was going to ensure I reached it and I did!
The workout wear and sneakers allowed me to move without constraint. They flexed when I flexed. Moved when I moved. They didn’t cut or slide off. They didn’t squeak, that intolerable chalkboard sound, when I ran and stopped. They moved, with me.
The clothing and sneakers worn during the session were created by Nike after witnessing Standford runners running barefoot, some of who are the fastest runners in the United States. Nike noted the differences and created the FREE XT line to simulate the feeling of running barefoot. In 2005, they released their new shoe. It mimiced what runners felt when they ran barefoot. They now have three (3) women’s sneakers that utilize this FREE technology: Nike FREE XT Quick Fit, Nike FREE XT Everyday Fit and Nike FREE TR Fit.
Nike FREE XT Quick Fit: Out of the three FREE sneakers, the XT Quick Fit has the most cushioning. It is great for those wearers who are transitioning to barefoot FREE Technology. It is versatile and flexible enough for cross training.
Nike FREE XT Everyday: The XT Everyday sneaker has nice flexibility with some type of cushioning. The Flywire arch wrap in this shoe gives women a nice snug supportive fit. It is good for avid walkers that also take classes at gyms.
Nike FREE TR Fit: This shoe has the maximum freedom. It feels the closest to walking barefoot. It has flex grooves on the midsole for barefoot like flexibility and a Phylite mid-sole that adds durability without the weight.
With quivering thighs and aching muscles, I left the class that day. I felt alive, each and every ache told me it was so. I also felt FREE. I no longer worried about how I looked (I hurt too much!), I didn’t care what others thought (My pain didn’t let me see!) but what I did notice was that I was vibrantly, whole-heartedly, wonderfully ALIVE!
I didn’t have to think. I didn’t have to worry.
I only needed to BE.
I was FREE.
At least for that day… the rest of the week, I was constrained to the sofa, too tired to move.
Click on the photo above to view images.
Disclosure: I was provided with Nike activewear and sneakers for the review. The pains and aches were solely my own.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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I had my first taste of shrimp when I was 27. I was on a date and I didn’t want to appear uncouth when I was offered a bite. I closed my eyes, opened my mouth and took a bite. Trying to appear as if I had more culinary experience than I did, I pasted on a smile and chewed. I needn’t have worried, it was sabroso.
Although I can’t recall how the restaurant made the shrimp, I can recall the sigh of satisfaction I gave when I finished my bite. I wanted to learn how to make shrimp myself. My taste buds craved more.
Since then I have made countless recipes with shrimp. My boys, thankfully, love it so we tend to have it quite often. I also learned Shrimp etiquette. I did a Google search and found a wonderful site called What’s Cooking America
Below I copied and pasted their etiquette tips.
Shrimp Cocktail: If large shrimp are served in a stemmed glass, pick them up with an oyster fork or whatever fork is provided and bite off a mouthful at a time, dipping into the sauce before each bite.
Large Shrimp: If large shrimp are served on a platter with sauce and no fork, pick up with your fingers, dip into sauce and put to your mouth. When eating shrimp with the tail still on, hold the shrimp by the tail and dip it into the sauce once. Eat it in one bite if it is not too large. Otherwise, eat it in two bites. Do not dunk the second bite into the sauce! Then discard the tail as you would olive pits or toothpicks.
Deep-Fried Shrimp: Tail-on deep-fried shrimp is meant to be eaten with the fingers.
Skewered Shrimp: If eating shrimp on a skewer, slide the shrimp off onto a plate (even if it is a paper plate at a cook out). Skewered shrimp should never be eaten like a corn dog.
Oriental Dishes:When eating shrimp with the tail that are part of some oriental dishes or fried foods, remove the tail with a fork and set to the side of your plate or on a separate “discard dish” if one is provided.
Now that I’ve saved you from being as uncouth as I was, I wanted to share a Shrimp, Asparagus, and Mushroom Stir-Fry recipe that is not only tasty but healthy. It’s reprinted with permission from Recipes for the Heart
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
Shrimp, Asparagus, and Mushroom Stir-Fry Serves 4; 1 1/2 cups shrimp mixture and 1/2 cup rice per serving
1/4 cup fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons plain rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce (lowest sodium available)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup uncooked instant brown rice
1 1/2 teaspoons canola or corn oil and 1 1/2 teaspoons canola or corn oil, divided use
1 cup shiitake mushrooms, stems discarded, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons grated peeled gingerroot
2 medium garlic cloves, minced
16 ounces asparagus, trimmed, cut on the diagonal into 1-inch slices (about 2 1/2 cups)
1 pound raw medium shrimp, peeled, rinsed, and patted dry
Preparation
In a medium bowl, whisk together the broth, vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and salt. Set aside.
Prepare the rice using the package directions, omitting the salt and margarine.
Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 1/2 teaspoons canola oil over high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the mushrooms, gingerroot, and garlic for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Stir in the asparagus. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Set aside.
Add the shrimp to the broth mixture, stirring to coat.
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons canola oil over high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the shrimp mixture for 2 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and just cooked through. Stir in the asparagus mixture. Cook for 1 minute, or until the vegetables are heated through and the sauce is thickened, stirring constantly. Serve over the rice.
Cook’s Tip: Stir-frying is a quick and easy technique—just make sure you have all your ingredients prepped before you begin. Once the pot is hot, things move fast!
Nutrients per Serving:
Calories 212 ; Total Fat 6.0 g ; Saturated Fat 0.5 g ; Trans Fat 0.0 g ; Polyunsaturated Fat 2.0 g; Monounsaturated Fat 3.0 g ; Cholesterol 168 mg ; Sodium 544 mg; Carbohydrates 17 g; Fiber 3 g; Sugars 2 g; Protein 23 g
Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health.
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I’ve been in sunny Puerto Rico all week, spending time with family and friends, while getting some much needed sun (Vitamin D ROCKS!). I fly back to New York today, Saturday, and so my mad dash to pack has begun.
I wasn’t able to post a receta/recipe this week but if you did make sure you link it up! Many of my family, friends and readers rely on the Sabroso Saturday recipes for new ideas.
And so I leave you with a quote from the White Rabbit, in Alice and Wonderland. It seems to be my song today!
“I’m late! I’m late! For a very important date!
No time to say goodbye, hello!
I’m late! I’m late! I’m late!”
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
I first fell in love with Escabeche de Guineos y Mollejas (Spanish Style Green Bananas & Chicken Gizzards) when I was pregnant with my youngest son Andrew. During that time I was on bed rest, so family and friends would come over and cook for us.
One day my best friend, Milly, brought over a pan of green bananas and gizzards. I have to admit I wouldn’t have tasted them if I wasn’t famished. Thankfully, I was because they were delicious!
After the birth of my son, I attempted to make the dish a few times but I have to tell you uncooked chicken gizzards look so unappetizing to me that I cannot eat the dish when I prepare it. Strangely enough, when others cook it I will gobble it up but if I have to touch uncooked gizzards, it gives me the hibbie jibbies. I know that’s crazy but it’s true!
So although I won’t eat my own, I am passing along Milly’s recipe for your eating pleasure.
¡Buen provecho!
Green Bananas and Chicken Gizzards (Escabeche de guineos y mollejas)
Ingredients
Green bananas - about 5 pounds
Chicken gizzards - about 2 pounds
1 large onion
1 head of garlic or garlic paste
2 bay leaves
1/2 cup olive oil
salt and pepper (to taste)
Preparation
NOTE: You can clean the gizzards before or after boiling. Milly states its easier to clean after since they are softer.
Gizzards
Boil the gizzards till tender (Approximately 2 hours) in a large pot of water.
Once tender, clean the gizzards by removing the greenish yellow hard stuff. As noted above, this can be done before or after boiling.
Once cooked and cleaned, cut gizzard into small pieces.
Green Bananas
Peel the green bananas and boil them in a separate pot for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the bananas to avoid overcooking.
NOTE: If you are able to stick a knife through the bananas and they do not fall apart they are done. If, however, they fall apart they are overdone and may turn to mush.
Once done, cut the bananas into 1/2 inch pieces.
Seasoning
If using garlic cloves, smash the cloves into paste. If using garlic paste, you do not need to do anything to them.
Cut the onion into thin slices.
In a bowl mix the garlic paste, sliced onions, bay leaves, and oil. Set aside.
Mix the gizzards, green bananas and seasoned paste together in a large bowl.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Let cool before serving.
TIP: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Advance preparation also allows the flavor to soak in, giving it a richer taste the day after.
Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
This week I made Spiced Chicken Breasts with Glazed Cinnamon Apples. I discovered it in the Go Red “Recipes for the Heart” recipe book.
The recipe was fairly simple. I’m guessing it took about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. I’m sure it would have taken less if I would have purchased pre-cut skinless chicken and prepackaged sliced apples; however, it would also have cost me more money to shave off 10 minutes and that just didn’t seem worth it to me.
The recipe was fun to make. I had the boys help me cut and core the apples, which means I didn’t get 6 wedges per apple. Some went into their mouths instead :)
Also, I normally cover the meats I bake, to make sure that they cook well and the flavor sinks in; however, when I covered this dish I found it made it soggy. I broiled it afterwards to give it a crunchier taste but believe it would have come out better if I had left the dish uncovered. The boys liked the chicken but I still feel it would have tasted better if I had left the dish uncovered. When I do I’ll make sure to note an update and our reaction!
In the meantime, I noted the recipe below for you. Let me know if you make it and what you think.
¡Buen provecho!
Spiced Chicken Breats with Glazed Cinnamon Apples
Serves 4: 3 ounces chicken and 6 apple wedges per serving
Ingredients
Cooking Spray (I use Pam)
2 tablespoons firmly packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (I didn’t use any)
1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided use
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 4 ounces)
1 1/2 teaspoon canola or corn oil
1 tablespoon canola or corn oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
4 medium apples – peeled, cored and each cut into 6 wedges
Preparation
Preheat oven to 400°. Spray baking pan with Pam. Set aside.
In a small bowl, stir together 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, the coriander, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and the pepper. Sprinkle over both sides of the chicken. Using your fingertips, gently press the mixture so it adheres to the chicken. Transfer the chicken to the pan. Brush the top of the chicken with 1 1/2 teaspoons oil. Set aside.
In a large bowl, stir together the lemon juice, remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar, remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Add the apples, turning to coat. Place around the chicken.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Remove the pan from the oven. Leaving the oven on and the apples and pan juice in the pan, transfer the chicken to the center of a platter. Cover the platter to keep warm.
Using a spatula, turn the apples to coat with the pan juices. Return the apples to the oven.
Bake for 5 minutes or until the apples are browned and tender and the pan juices have created a glaze. Spoon around the chicken.
Tadaaaaa below is my end result.
Have a virtual bite. It’s sabroso!
According to the book, this dish has the following nutrients per serving: Calories: 335; Total Fat 8.5 g; Saturated fat 1.0 g.; Trans Fate 0 g.; Polyunsaturated Fat 2.0 g; Monounsaturated Fat 4.0 g; Cholesterol 73 mg; Sodium 428 mg; Carbohydrates 42 g.; Fiber 3 g.; Sugars 37 g.; Protein 25 g.; Dietary Exchanges: 1 1/2 fruit; 1 1.2 other carbohydrates; 3 Lean meat
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
This has been a very busy week, lots of events (recaps to come), work, and running around. As a result, the boys and I ate out. I tried to stay away from fast food (burgers, fries, fried chicken, etc.), opting instead for sushi, soups and salads. Thankfully, the boys didn’t rebel – at least not too much.
I also wanted to share some fabulous news: I have been hired by ConAgra to review their recipes! As you can imagine, I am super excited to be working with them. As a consumer who already uses many of their products, like Egg Beaters, Hunts, Pam, and Reddi Wip to name a few, I couldn’t have asked for a better fit!
I’ve already started testing and tasting their recipes on their site, ReadySetEat. In fact, I even tweeted a picture of their Maple Mustard Porkchops last month. I know several of you wanted the recipe when I did, so head on over to their site to get it. I’m sure you’ll find a few more simple, quick and tasty recipes along the way!
Till next week, eat hearty, eat healthy and eat well!
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
This week promises to be a whirlwind of activity for me. I have several events planned for something I am very passionate about, women’s heart health. I am excited to be part of an organization that shares my passion: Go Red for Women and Go Red Por Tu Corazón, the Spanish version of Go Red.
During my many Go Red events, I have met some incredible women. I now call them my Go Red Hermanas/Sisters. They are truly amazing women who have inspired me much more than they realize. Their courage, tenacity and willingness to share their lives and hearts has made me realize just how important it is to share our stories.
They are married, single, divorced, and widowed. They work outside the home, inside the home, are stay at home Moms and students. They are Latina, Caucasian, African American, and Asian. They stand for survival. They are you and I … and today I want to take a moment to applaud them.
Thank you my Sisters, you have opened up my world!
Please join me on Wednesday, February 2, 2010 for the Go Red Twitter Party and support this great cause.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
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With February just around the corner, I’ve been thinking about Valentine’s Day. Although I don’t have a mate right now, I love helping my friends plan their romantic rendezvous and what better way to romance a man then by feeding him first!
Because the day should be spent beautifying yourself, and NOT in the kitchen, I thought this recipe that is featured on the Gortons.com website for Mini Tostadas with Guacamole and Shrimp would be perfect. They are extremely easy to make and can be done in about five minutes flat.
They’re the perfect finger food for you to create a romantic candlelight picnic. Grab a bottle of wine, spread a blanket in your living room, bedroom, or, weather permitting, outside by the water, and feed this finger food to your Sweetie. They are super easy to make and to pack if you are traveling. I’m sure after eating these sabroso tostadas, your Sweetie will be wondering how he can snatch you up before someone else finds out about your skills! ;)
Psst, they are also great for when the girls get together, as a quick meal with the family, or even for a large dinner gathering!
Mini Tostadas with Guacamole and Shrimp 4-6 Servings (12 mini tortillas)
Ingredients:
1 (8oz.) package Gorton’s Classic Grilled Shrimp
4 ripe avocados
2 tablespoons lime juice (or the juice of 1/2 lime)
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste
10-12 mini tortillas (about 3″diameter), toasted or round tortilla chips
Directions:
1. Prepare Gorton’s Classic Grilled Shrimp according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl gently mash avocado pulp with a fork.
3. Add lime juice, cilantro and salt. Fold gently.
4. To assemble tostadas, place mini tortillas on a serving platter and divide guacamole among all the tortillas.
5. Top each prepared tortilla with one prepared Gorton’s Classic Grilled Shrimp. Remove shrimp tail for easier eating.
According to the Gorton website, this recipe will also work well with Gorton’s Shrimp Poppers and Gorton’s Popcorn Shrimp.
Let me know what you think if you make them!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
This past week was a hard one. I had to rush my Mom to emergency, my 9 year old missed 2 days of school, my teen and I bickered, and even my puppy acted up by chewing through my brand new rug. Life happens, I know. I normally roll with the punches but this week was harder. This week I had no time to cook.
On the good days, my teen cooked. He came to my site, searched through recipes and made the Cinnamon Yogurt Muffins and Budget Friendly Meatballs. On the bad days, we ate on the fly, grabbing fast food as we rushed to and from doctors. It was a mess. I was a mess.
Today is different. I’ve decide to remove some of my stress and prepare some simple recipes ahead of time. I’m making three recipes with ground turkey:
For the 2 meatless days, I will make a savory egg white omelet and Salmon with Pineapple Salsa. Over the weekend, we take turns hosting or visiting family/friends sharing good times and sabroso/savory dishes.
In my mind, meal planning is love stockpiled, waiting to be used and savored as needed.
Do you plan or cook your meals ahead of time? What works best for you? Share your ideas!
Turkey Empanadas
1 lb ground turkey
1/2 a small onion, diced
1/2 cup diced green or red bell pepper
1 tsp. dried oregano
2 tsps. garlic powder
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. black pepper
1 envelope of Sazón with achiote
1 – 8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 package of Frozen Empanada Dough ( I use the Goya Discos since those are the ones they sell by me but you can use any kind.)
Preparation of Meat
Brown the ground turkey in a small pan with water.
Add onion, bell pepper, oregano, garlic, salt, pepper, Sazón with achiote, and tomato sauce.
Cover pan and continue boiling on medium flame for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Uncover pan. Continue to boil the meat for another 15 minutes or until cooked.
Preparation of Empanadas
Preheat oven to 400°.
Add about one tablespoon of meat to the center of one thawed disc.
Fold the disc in half, bringing the ends together.
Using a fork, mash/pinch the ends together so that the meat does not spill out. Repeat the same with all the discs.
Spray oven pan with Pam and place filled discs inside. Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until browned.
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
I try to make at least 2 non-meat meals per week. I find this helps me save some money (and my waistline!).
For these meals, I usually make some type of fish, a savory omelet or a veggie dish. This week I will feature one of the veggies dishes that I make, a vegetable stuffed pepper. I know it sounds weird doesn’t it – like stuffing a chicken with a chicken right? – but it’s actually good! Its also healthy but don’t let that fool you, it packs a punch!
The recipe is simple and quick to make. I use left over beans since it keeps me from throwing them, and my hard earned dollars away. Since you are using left over beans that have already been seasoned you don’t have to add much more to the recipe which makes it easy peasy. This is also a basic recipe so don’t be afraid to play around with the seasoning and change it up to suit your families needs!
¡Buen provecho!
UPDATE: Thanks to one of my readers I learned that Vegan meals would not include cheese. So if you are preparing the recipe below as a Vegan dish, remove the cheese.
Vegan Stuffed Peppers
6 medium sized bell peppers (green, red or yellow- I like green)
2 cups cooked beans
3/4 cup shredded mozarella cheese
1 small onion, minced
1 large clove garlic, minced
Black pepper and cayenne pepper to taste
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Preheat oven to 375°
Cut the tops of the peppers and take out the seeds.
Boil the peppers in a large pot for about 5 minutes. Remove peppers and place them upside down on paper to drain.
In a bowl combine the other ingredients. Stuff the peppers with this.
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking pan UPRIGHT. Pour a little bit of water in the pan and bake uncovered.
Bake peppers for about 20 minutes.
That’s it! They’re done! Now serve it with rice and you have a meal.
Enjoy!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
As one of the Go Red for Women and Go Red Por Tu Corazon Spokeswomen, I am excited to announce the “Go Red” Twitter Party!
Last year I became a Go Red Spokesperson after seeing how heart disease was devastating my family. The unhealthy habits my family had practiced for many years had devastated us. Those practices were passed onto me and I, in turn, was passing them onto my sons. I was scared, very scared.
In the end, I made changes. I became educated. I made sure I stayed up to date with my numbers: cholesterol, blood pressure, weight. I had to look at myself in a new light. I could no longer say my muffin top was just an inconvenience. I had to admit to myself that my waist size was a precursor to heart disease.
I stopped frying and started baking. I brought skim milk instead of whole milk. I brought fresh fruits and vegetables. I cooked whole grain rice and sometimes brown. They were small changes. Changes we could live with. Changes that would help ME live. Changes that have inspired my family to get more active and become healthier.
We learned the risks and took the steps to prolong our lives. I did not want to become the eleventh member in my family to undergo open heart surgery.
Could I have been overreacting?
No.
Latinas suffer from heart disease at least 10 years earlier than Caucasian women.
Yet this doesn’t have to be our future.
This February, Go Red Por Tu Corazón invites you to Live for Your Heart and Go Red by living a healthy life to help prevent the No. 1 killer of Hispanic women –heart disease. To get us started, we’re kick off the month with a Go Red Twitter Party!
Come join me and my co-hosts! Meet new people, learn, laugh, and enter to win some Latinalicious prizes during our fiesta/party!
Below are some images of the prizes:
Macy’s Gift Card – $100 Retail Value
Go Red Leather Journal – $22 Retail Value
Go Red RhineStud Tee – $28 Retail Value
Grand Prize ($200+ Total Retail Value)
• Go Red Boutique Mirror ($18.00)
• Go Red Rhinestone Short Sleeve Shirt featuring Red Dress ($28.00)
• Go Red Rhinestone Brooch ($27)
• Go Red Leather Journal ($22)
• Go Red Utensil Set ($24)
• Macy’s Gift Card ($100)
Second Place Prize ($100+ Total Retail Value)
• Go Red Rhinestone Short Sleeve Shirt featuring Red Dress ($28.00)
• Go Red Rhinestone Brooch ($27)
• Go Red Leather Journal ($22)
• Go Red Utensil Set ($24)
Third Place Prize ($100+ Total Retail Value)
• Go Red Rhinestone Short Sleeve Shirt featuring Red Dress ($28.00)
• Go Red Rhinestone Brooch ($27)
• Go Red Leather Journal ($22)
• Go Red Utensil Set ($24)
15 Smaller Prizes – 5 of each item noted below (Retail Value Varies)
• Go Red Leather Journal ($22)
• Go Red Boutique Mirror ($18)
• A one of a kind Go Red Sports Bag not sold anywhere else ($20)
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
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This past week I had lots of time to cook and bake at a leisurely pace so I took the time to make a few items my boys would love. One of those items were Wheat Iced Cinnamon Rolls.
They take some time to prepare since you are making them from scratch and have to let the dough rise but its well worth the wait! Also, this is a family friendly recipe that you can do with your kids. My boys loved gathering and rolling the dough. It let them release some of that tension of being cooped in from the snowstorm as they pounded it out on the dough!
Note, I obtained the recipe from the Domino Dark Brown Sugar box. (Don’t you just love boxed recipes!)I tweaked it a bit by using egg substitutes, whole wheat flour and removing the pecans since GASP! my boys don’t like pecans. I also added extra raisins and less sugar for the filling.
Anyway, hope you enjoy this sweet sabrosura / yumminess!
¡Buen Provecho!
Wheat Iced Cinnamon Rolls
Dough
2 eggs or 4 egg whites
3/4 cup warm water
1 package active dry yeast
3 1/2 cups sifted flour (I used wheat)
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoon Domino granualated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter – I used I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter
Filling
1/4 cup butter, melted – I used I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter
1/3 cup Domino Dark Brown Sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup raisins – I used a half cup
1/4 cup chopped pecans – I did not include pecans
Domino Granulated Sugar for sprinking
Icing
3/4 cup Domino Confectioners Sugar
2-3 teaspoons milk
Preparation
Dough
Beat eggs in medium sized bowl.
Add 3/4 cup warm water and yeast, stirring to dissolve yeast.
Refrigerate mixture for 10 minutes.
In large bowl, mix flour, salt and sugar.
With pastry blender or fork, blend in butter, until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Make a well in the center and pour in yeast mixture.
Gradually blend the mixtures together; it will be loose and sticky.
Gather dough onto floured surface and knead until smooth, about 2 minutes.
Form dough into a ball and place in lightly greased bowl.
Chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
When ready to bake, roll dough into an oblong shape on a well-floured surface, about 1/4-inch thick.
Filling
In a bowl , mix brown sugar, cinnamon, raisins and pecans.
Brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar mixture, leaving a 1-inch border
Roll dough to form a jelly roll.
With a serrated knife cut the roll into 1-inch slices.
Place on greased baking sheet about 2 inches apart and allow to rise in a warm place about 30 minutes.
Generously sprinkle with granulated sugar.
Bake in a pre-heated 350 degree oven for 22 to 24 minutes.
Allow rolls to cool slightly on wire racks placed over wax paper.
Icing
Mix confectioners sugar and milk together until smooth.
Drizzle icing over rolls and serve.
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
During the Christmas holidays, many Puerto Rican families partake in Coquito, a spanish egg nog that includes rum. Below is a recipe I received from one of my readers, Micaela P. Torregrosa-Mahoney.
Thank you Micaela for sharing this wonderful authentic Puerto Rican drink recipe with the other readers!
Happy Holidays!
Coquito aka Puerto Rican Coconut Eggnog By Micaela Torregrosa-Mahoney I spent years trying to develop the creamy, heady coquito I’d had many times in PR over the years at Christmastime. This is the version I’ve finally settled on, and which my family enjoys and shares with a deserving friend every year.
The story goes that coquito originated in the mountains of PR during Prohibition, and that it was originally made to cover up the strong breath-smell (we call it “tufo”) of our [rotgut] version of moonshine, ron caña. The point of this story, as far as I’m concerned, is that this is supposed to be a strong drink and that is how I make it, so feel free to use less rum than I do.
Also, this is not a low-calorie beverage so don’t even think about calories when drinking this stuff. Most people use a blender to mix the ingredients but I prefer to use my immersion blender. Finally, I use Thai coconut milk because I’ve found it to have less thickeners, preservatives, and off-flavors than other kinds.
This recipe makes enough for us to have about half a gallon to keep and about a liter to give away. We drink it up pretty quickly, so I have no idea how long it keeps.
Ingredients
2x 12oz cans evaporated milk
1x 14oz can sweetened condensed milk
2x 13.5oz cans coconut milk
4x egg yolk
1x 750ml bottle white PuertoRican rum
6 cinnamon sticks
ground cinnamon and/or nutmeg (to taste)
Preparation
Pour rum into a very large pitcher, then gently whisk in the eggyolk. Let stand for 10-15mins.
Pour all other liquid ingredients in and blend thoroughly.
Store [mixed ingredients] in glass bottles with the cinnamon sticks. Refrigerate and let stand at least 8 hours so the flavors can meld & mellow.
Shake well before serving.
This is traditionally served in cordial glasses with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or both.
Salú y pesetas… !!!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
As someone who has gone through the trails of dealing with bedbugs, I know how expensive it can be. The cost of new furniture, dry cleaning, laundry, plastic encasements, fumigations, and so much more, can quickly add up. Thankfully, my building covered the cost of the fumigation and follow-ups, as per law; however, for those families who live in residences that are not mandated to cover the cost of fumigation and follow-ups, those removal fees can mean they have to choose between necessities or bed bug removal services.
Thankfully, Bedbug Central has teamed up with almost two (2) dozen exterminators to provide a FREE bedbug treatment to families in need. In order to apply for the service, you must submit an email to beddy@bedbugcentral.com* with a description of why the FREE treatment will help you. Note, the description must be 300 words or less.
Good luck and I hope this helped you save some ca$h!
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
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With the holidays right around the corner and barely any time to cook, my sons have been taking advantage of my George Foreman Grill by helping to make quick meals and desserts.
My teen first saw a similar recipe on the food channel. He said it was created with green plantains. I did a search and didn’t find the recipe he saw on TV but I found the Grilled Bananas dessert recipe below on the George Foreman Recipes website that looked rather similar to what he was trying to create. After the holidays, I plan to make it with green plantains. I’m sure the combination of the sweet brown sugar with the plantains will tantalize my taste buds even more!
Till I do, we’ve used the below recipe which is easy enough that my teen can make it for himself and his little brother when they want something sweet. The original recipe called for walnuts but we used granola instead. Although we didn’t, you could also substitute the sugar with a sugar sweetener.
Ingredients:
2 ripe bananas peeled
2 Tbsp sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
2 Tbsp granola
Directions:
Cut the bananas in half widthwise & in half lengthwise. Combine the sugar, cinnamon & walnuts in a small bowl. Place the bananas on a pre heated grill horizontally & spoon the cinnamon-walnuts over each slice. Grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the bananas are warm & the cinnamon & granola are slightly glazed.
Disclosure: I received a product to review; however, this in no way influenced my opinions.
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
A few weeks ago I mentioned that I received the George Foreman Evolve Grill for review and I have to say its my newest passion!
This week’s recipe, the Salmon with Pineapple Salsa, is one I found on the George Foreman Recipes website. I try to incorporate fish in our diet at least once a week because of the nutritional value. According to Wikipedia, “… it contains high protein, high Omega-3 fatty acids, and high vitamin D content.” The high Vitamin D content is especially important for older adults since it combats osteoporosis. In fact, Vitamin D with exercise has been said to stop or even reduce osteoporosis, which is great for me since I have been told I may develop osteoporosis.
For this recipe, I used frozen salmon that was on sale at the supermarket . I am sure it would have tasted MUCH better with fresh salmon but it was still tasty enough to satisfy our palette! If you make it with fresh salmon, let me know what you think!
Ingredients:
2 cups coarsely chopped fresh pineapple
1/2 cup chopped red sweet pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
3 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon snipped fresh cilantro or chives
1 tablespoon honey
1 small fresh jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1 1-pound fresh skinless salmon filet, 1 inch thick
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Directions:
Use a medium bowl to combine pineapple, sweet pepper, onion, 2 tablespoons of the lime juice, the cilantro, honey, and jalapeno pepper. Cover and refrigerate up to 2 hours.
Rinse filets. Pat dry with paper towels. Cut into 4 serving pieces. Brush both sides of fish with the remaining lime juice and sprinkle with cumin. [Note, if you use individually wrapped frozen salmon as I did, you need only brush all sides of the fish with the remaining lime juice and sprinkle with the cumin.]
Place on the grill, tucking under any thin edges. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, until flakes easily. Serve with salsa.
Serves: 4
¡Buen Provecho!
Btw, my salmon didn’t look as pretty as the photo above. I just used that picture to get your mouth watering! The above photo was taken by Sunny on Flickr.
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
This week I am featuring a recipe I discovered on the back of a flour bag, Honey Whole Wheat Bread. I found this recipe a few years ago and love it! The honey in this recipe gives it a distinctive flavor. I can NOT begin to explain how sabroso/ delicious the bread tastes. Dab some jelly on it and add a Light Frappuccino and you have a leisurely morning breakfast. Or on those cold blustery days you can enjoy it with an Argentinean Beef Stew or Carolyn’s Chili recipe. This bread can be combined with so many things – you’re only limited by your imagination!
Best of all, this recipe is heart-healthy since it uses whole wheat flour. If your family is not used to whole wheat flour, you can put it in slowly, substituting a portion of the all-purpose flour with wheat in small portions until they get used to it.
Below I copied the recipe below in verbatim.
Honey-Whole Wheat Bread
Makes 2 loaves, app. 16 servings
Ingredients
2 packages regular active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water
1/2 cup of honey
1/4 cup butter or margarine
3 teaspoons salt
2 1/4 cups very warm water
4 1/2 cups Gold Medal whole wheat flour
2 3/4 to 3 3/4 Gold Medal all purpose flour
Preparation
In small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water; set aside. In large bowl, mix honey, butter, salt and very warm water; cool 5 minutes.
To cooled honey mixture, beat in 3 cups of the whole wheat flour with electric mixer on low speed, scraping bowl frequently, until moistened. beat on medium speed 3 minutes, scraping bowl frequently. Beat in remaining 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour and dissolved yeast. With spoon, stir in 2 1/4 to 2 3/4 cups of all purpose flour until dough pulls cleanly away from side of bowl.
Place dough on floured work surface. Knead in remaining 1/2 to 1 cup all-purpose flour; continue kneading 5 to 10 minutes until dough is smooth and springy. (This part takes out your aggression for the day! LOL) Grease large bowl with cooking spray; place dough in bowl, turning bowl to grease all sides. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and cloth towel. Let rise in warm place (80° to 85° F) 30 to 35 minutes or until doubled in size.
Generously grease 2 (8×4 or 9×5 inch)loaf pans with shortening or cooking spray. Gently push fist into dough to deflate; divide in half. On lightly floured surface, roll each half of dough with rolling pin into 18×8 inch rectangle. Starting with one 8 inch side, roll up dough tightly, pressing with thumbs to seal after each turn. Pinch edge of dough into roll to seal. Fold ends under loaf; place seam side down in pan. Cover; let rise in warm place 30 to 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
Heat oven to 375° F. Uncover dough; bake 30 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F; bake 10 to 15 minutes longer or until loaves sound hollow when lightly tapped. Immediately remove from pans to cooling racks. Cool immediately, about 1 hour (Note: Keep away from kids/mates or they will try to devour it before cooled!)
FYI: If you’re not amante to miel/ a lover of honey you can remove it from the recipe. You can also substititue the honey with other ingredients and/or add topping to the bread. The choices are endless!
¡Buen Provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
This week I am sharing a family favorite, arroz con gandules or rice and green pigeon peas in English. This is my super quick version because I used sofrito, which is a blend of fresh spices and vegetables that are prepared beforehand and frozen for future use.
Arroz con gandules works well with any meat. It also seems to taste better the next day but that could be because I’m not cooking two days in a row!
I have to admit my sons enjoy it much more than white rice. In fact, when I made it this week instead of the usual white rice and beans, my 9 year old stated, “Mom you are finally cooking!”
I hope your family enjoys it as much as mine!
Ingredients
5 olives
1 package of Goya sazon with coriander and annatto
1/2 a cup of ham chopped or 1 package of Goya Ham flavoring
1/2 cup of Sofrito (Homemade is preferred but you can use store brought)
1 15oz can of Green Pigeon Peas
4 cups of rice
6 cups of water
Preparation
Makes about 8 -10 servings based on how my family eats (see picture below) but may be more based on your serving size
Put olives, sazon, ham, sofrito and green pigeon peas in a large pot. Simmer over low heat.
Add 4 cups of rice into pot. Mix rice with the simmered seasoning.
Once blended, add 6 cups of water and raise heat to high.
Boil over high heat until rice begins to boil. Allow to continue boiling for about 2-3 minutes. Turn rice and lower the heat to a low medium heat and cover.
Stir after 15 minutes and cover.
Continue cooking until rice is cooked (app. 45 min. with my old pot!)
Psst if your family is resistant to brown rice, using it to make rice and peas is the perfect way to hide it. When my sons aren’t in the kitchen, helping me cook, I use brown instead of white and my boys are none the wiser!
¡Buen Provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
As one of the Go Red For Women and Go Red Por Tu Corazon Spokeswomen, I’ve been trying to live a healthier life, which means that I am also cooking healthier meals. Because of this I was ecstatic when I was given the opportunity to review the George Foreman Evolve Grill for my Holiday Gift Guide coming next week.
Since receiving the grill, I’ve made a few items, including a Chicken Parmesan Panini, grilled ham and cheese sandwiches, and today’s featured baked Chicken, Potato and Vegetable casserole, that I baked like a lasagna, layering each ingredient in the George Foreman Evolve Grill’s Deep Dish Baking Plate.
It was so simple and cooked so quickly with the grill!I also loved that I could hide veggies in the casserole. When I served my teen, he removed the carrots from the top, not realizing I had shredded carrots and placed them inside the casserole. Halfway through his meal, he noticed the shredded carrots but ate it anyway! hehehe
Enjoy!
Want to make this yourself?
Keep your eyes peeled for my
George Foreman Evolve Grill giveaway!
Ingredients Makes 4-6 servings
3lbs thin sliced chicken
2 potatoes, thinly sliced
1 medium to large sized carrot, shredded
1 Onion sliced
1/4 cup of minced Garlic (I buy the garlic already minced- saves time)
salt, pepper, basil, olive oil to taste
15 oz. Tomato Sauce
Preparation
Preheat grill at 400 degrees for 5 minutes.
Mix garlic, salt, pepper, basil and olive oil in a bowl. Apply mixture to chicken.
Let seasoned chicken stand while you slice/shred potatoes, onions and carrots.
Add tomato sauce to the bottom of the baking dish.
Layer the seasoned chicken over the tomato sauce. Add onions, potato, and carrots.
Pour tomato sauce over the chicken and veggies,
Repeat step 4: Layer the seasoned chicken over the tomato sauce. Add onions, potato slices and carrots.
Repeat step 6: Pour tomato sauce over the chicken and veggies.
Bake for approximately 8-10 minutes or until chicken has cooked. Note, time varies depending on how thin the chicken is sliced.
Serve with salad and/or rice.
I served my chicken casserole dish with rice and beans, sweet plantains and salad (not shown).
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
Enjoy & have a healthy Sabroso Saturday!
Disclosure: I received a George Foreman Evolve Grill for review purposes; however, this in no way influenced my opinions. Trust me, if you owned this baby, you would gush about it too!
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
This week’s recipe is a request from one of my Twitter followers, who wanted an authentic Puerto Rican Sancocho recipe.
Sancocho is a type of stew found in many Caribbean and Latin countries. Recipes vary based on location. Puerto Rican Sancocho is usually made from chicken, beef, or pig’s feet.
Sancocho is a great when you just want a hearty no fuss stew or on a cold winter day.
As a child, my padrasto/stepfather, Mario, made Sancocho de patitas orpig’s feet sancocho. Sadly, he passed away in 1994 and we lost many of his “famous” and sabroso/tasty homemade recipes, including the Sancocho de Patitas recipe. The below recipe was given to me by my sister, Margarita. It is made with beef not pork feet. I have to admit I don’t know if she created the recipe or used a cook book so I can’t give full credit yet.* She’s currently moving and could not get back to me by the time of posting. I will update the post when she does.
Puerto Rican Sancocho
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
5 garlic cloves, minced
1-1/2 pounds top round beef, cubed into 1-1/2-inch pieces
1/3 cup chopped yellow onions
1/3 cup chopped green pepper
1/3 cup chopped celery
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger-root
1 chili pepper; seeded and minced
5 sprigs of cilantro, chopped
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon pulverized rock salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/3 cup Burgundy wine
4 medium tomatoes, cored and chopped
4 quarts beef stock
2 green bananas, peeled and slice into 1-inch pieces
1 yellow plantain, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium sweet potato (1/2 pound), diced into 1-inch pieces
1/2 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
3 medium new potatoes, scrubbed clean and quartered
1 large chayote, peeled, cored, and diced into 1-inch pieces
2 ears of corn, cleaned and sliced into 6 parts each
How to make it
In a preheated kettle over low-to-medium heat, combine olive oil, garlic, beef cubes, and onions.
Stir until beef is brown on all sides and onions begin to caramelize.
Fold in chopped pepper, celery, ginger-root, chili pepper, cilantro, cumin, salt, white pepper, burgundy wine, tomatoes, and 1 quart of beef stock.
Cook down until stock is reduced by half.
Stir beef, then fold in all the remaining vegetables and beef stock.
Continue to cook until meat is tender and the vegetables soft.
Serve alongside fresh bread and white rice.
¡Buen provecho!
*UPDATE: My sister discovered this recipe online. She can’t recall which site so if you happen to discover it or know which one, please let me know so I can give credit where credit is due!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
My boys and I had our first crepes at iHop. They were delicious! However, they were loaded with calories and weren’t very heart healthy. In my quest to get healthier, I believed I had to give them up forever. I was WRONG.
The below recipe, Whole Wheat Chocolate and Banana Crepes Filled with Fresh Strawberries and Bananas, is a healthier alternative to those served elsewhere. The chocolate milk helps your family meet their daily calcium recommendations while also providing them with vitamins A, D, B12, and potassium. The whole wheat provides fiber and protein. The fruits included inside the crepes and filling are just as important!
The boys aided in the preparation, gobbling them up before I could get photos, so I will update this post with photos before week’s end!
¡BuenProvecho!
Whole Wheat Chocolate and Banana Crepes Filled with Fresh Strawberries and Bananas
Serves 4 (2 crepes each) servings
Ingredients:
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 eggs or 4 egg whites
• 1 ½ cup low fat chocolate milk
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cups strawberries cut into small pieces
• 2 sliced bananas
• 1/2 cup light whipped cream
• Non-stick cooking spray
Preparation:
Place the flour, low fat chocolate milk, one banana, butter and eggs in the blender. Mix well.
Pour ½ cup of batter for each crepe onto skillet or crepe maker, lightly sprayed with cooking spray. Cook 1-2 minutes each side or until golden brown. Place aside.
To make the filling, mix the cut strawberries and sliced bananas in a bowl. Set aside half of this mixture to place inside the crepe and half of the mixture to place on top of the filled crepes.
Place a small portion of the filling in the middle of the crepe. Fold crepe.
On the top of the folded crepe, add light whipped cream than a small portion of the fruit mixture.
Nutritional Information: 313 calories; 8.3 g fat; 4.3 g saturated fat; 11.4 g protein; 147 mg calcium
Want more low calorie chocolate milk recipes? Head on over to the eligelechewebsite! Make sure you also follow them on Twitter and Facebook to get the latest deals, recipes and news! Don’t read Spanish? No worries, they post in English as well!
Daily Calcium recommendations: 3 cups of low-fat or fat-free milk or equivalent milk products for those 9 years of age and older; 2 cups of low-fat and fat-free milk or equivalent milk products for children 2-8 years old.
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
Enjoy & have a healthy Sabroso Saturday!
Disclosure: This is a paid post created in collaboration with Milk Processors Education Program (MilkPEP). All opinions expressed herein are solely my own.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
This week’s Sabroso Saturday features Chocolate Rice Pudding and contains chocolate milk. The recipe is a wonderful variation of the Arroz con Leche/Spanish Style Rice Pudding I grew up with in my family. The chocolate milk also seems to boil over well with the kids (mine loved it!). Even better, it helps them meet their daily calcium recommendations while also providing them with vitamins A, D and B12, and potassium!
I also like the simplicity and ease of the Chocolate Rice Pudding recipe. I can easily double it and serve it to a larger group, which I plan on doing during the holidays. I would also serve smaller servings in Dixie cups (4 oz vs. 8 oz) on a decorative platter.
Note: You can reduce the calories in this recipe even further by using fat free condensed milk instead of the regular condensed milk.
Chocolate Rice Pudding
Makes 5 (1 cup) servings
Nutrition information per cup
354 calories; 4.6g fat; 2.7 saturated fat; 10.5 g protein; 289 g calcium
Ingredients:
3 cups low fat chocolate milk
3 cups of cooked rice
½ cup sweet condensed milk (use fat-free to decrease calories)
½ cup raisins
½ tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp orange zest
Raisins and a sprinkle of cinnamon for decoration*
Preparation:
In a pan, mix ½ tsp of the orange zest with the rest of the ingredients.
Cook ingredients at medium heat until it begins to simmer.
Once simmering, decrease to low heat and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes. Make sure you stir frequently!
Add the rest of the orange zest when the rice is almost ready.
Before serving, add raisins to the top and sprinkle with cinnamon.
You can serve the pudding warm or cold. To serve cold, let stand for 15 minutes before refrigerating for an hour or so.
¡Buen provecho!
*The amount of raisins and cinnamon used in the recipe is based on taste. You can add more or none at all! Its up to you. I used about 1/2 cup of raisins and about 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.
Want more low calorie chocolate milk recipes? Head on over to the elige leche? website! Make sure you also follow them on Twitter and Facebook to get the latest deals, recipes and news!
Daily recommendations: 3 cups of low-fat or fat-free milk or equivalent milk products for those 9 years of age and older; 2 cups of low-fat and fat-free milk or equivalent milk products for children 2-8 years old.
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
Enjoy & have a healthy Sabroso Saturday!
Disclosure: This is a paid post created in collaboration with Milk Processors Education Program (MilkPEP). All opinions expressed herein are solely my own.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
I love Frappuccinos! However, I haven’t had the opportunity to enjoy them as much as I like because of the Starbucks cost factor. Thankfully, I was able to obtain the below Mint Mocha Frappuccino Light recipe from elige leche, the Spanish version of the got milk? website.
After savoring this treat, I plan on making it for my girlfriends. Its the perfect drink for the holidays and an extra large serving has fewer calories than the Starbucks version (approximately 20 calories less for a 16 oz. cup)! So not only do you save money making the below recipe at home, but you also save your thighs! Woot!
Mint Mocha Frappuccino Light
Makes 2 one cup servings or 1 extra large serving
One cup contains 80 calories; 1.3 g fat; 0.8 g saturated fat; 4.2 g protein; 147 mg calcium
Ingredients
1 cup low fat chocolate milk
1 cup chilled coffee
2 tbsp sugar substitute (splenda)
¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract
Ice
Directions
Mix all ingredients in a blender until the ice is crushed and enjoy!
Below I shared a reenactment of my first taste. As you can see, I was just a tad bit giddy
Want more low calorie milk recipes? Head on over to the elige leche? website! Make sure you also follow them on Twitter and Facebook to get the latest deals, recipes and news!
Daily Milk recommendations for most adults: Three 8 oz cups per day
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
Enjoy & have a healthy Sabroso Saturday!
Disclosure: This is a paid post created in collaboration with Milk Processors Education Program (MilkPEP). All opinions expressed herein are solely my own.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
This week I am featuring an extra special treat – Chocolate French Toast!
During the week my boys eat quick and healthy breakfast meals before going to school (i.e., cereal, yogurt, oatmeal). On the weekends, I like to make their breakfast extra special. However, that does not mean I am willing to let go of my two prerequisites: quick and healthy.
My secret weapon, Chocolate French Toast, using a recipe I obtained from elige leche?
It quick and easy to make, doesn’t require much time and will make it seem as if you slaved over a stove while they slept. Even better, the main ingredient, low fat chocolate milk, gives the Chocolate French Toast an extra punch to make it stand out from other breakfast meals. I also love that it provides the 3 daily servings* of milk recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and provides three of the four “nutrients of concern” that children do not get enough of – calcium, potassium and vitamin D, as well as a healthy dose of vitamin B12!
Chocolate French Toast
Makes 4 servings of 2 slices each Nutrition Information for the Chocolate French Toasts only
334 calories; 10.7 g fat; 3 g saturated fat; 14.7 g protein; 107 mg calcium
Ingredients:
8 slices of whole wheat
4 eggs or egg substitute equivalent
½ cup low fat chocolate milk
1 tsp vanilla
¼ cup sugar (optional)
Cooking spray
Directions:
In a bowl, beat eggs with a fork and add chocolate milk and vanilla.
Heat skillet, over a medium flame. Coat skillet with cooking spray.
One at a time, place white bread into mixture, let it soak well.
Transfer bread slices into the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides.
Place Chocolate French Toast on a plate and sprinkle with sugar (optional).
Serve Chocolate French Toast with a glass of low fat chocolate milk!
¡Buen provecho!
You can obtain more recipes that use milk by going to elige leche?
Make sure you also follow them on Twitter and Facebook to get the latest deals, recipes and news!
*Daily recommendations – 3 cups of low-fat or fat-free milk or equivalent milk products for those 9 years of age and older and 2 cups of low-fat and fat-free milk or equivalent milk products for children 2-8 years old.
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
Enjoy & have a healthy Sabroso Saturday!
Disclosure: This is a paid post created in collaboration with Milk Processors Education Program (MilkPEP). All opinions expressed herein are solely my own.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
********************
This week I am noting a budget friendly hamburger recipe my Mother used to make when I was younger. Children love it because they think its fast food. Parents, on the other hand, know its healthier than store brought or fast food burgers because of the added fiber in the wheat bread. Its also budget friendly, since you’re using less meat.
Budget Friendly Hamburgers*
*Recipecan be fried OR baked
1 lb ground beef, ground turkey OR ground chicken
2 “butt” ends from a loaf of wheat bread (aka the end pieces)
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of pepper
1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder or a minced clove of garlic
Note: Seasoning is done according to taste. You may add more or less salt, pepper, onion and garlic powder. Alternatively, you may also use a tablespoon of Goya Adobo All Purpose Seasoning with Pepper.I prefer the Goya brand but you can use any Adobo brand.
Frying Directions
In large bowl, mix meat and spices.
Soak bread in water for 5-10 seconds. Squeeze excess water from bread and mix it into the seasoned meat.
Shape meat into hamburger sized patties.
In a skillet, heat oil over medium high heat. Add hamburger. Cook until brown on all sides.
Baking Directions
In large bowl, mix meat and spices.
Soak bread in water for 5-10 seconds. Squeeze excess water from bread and mix it into the seasoned meat.
Shape meat into hamburger sized patty.
Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Bake hamburger in a covered pan for about 30 minutes or until they are no longer pink in the center.
To save time, you can double up the recipe and freeze patties for future use.
Enjoy!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
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This week I am noting an Argentinean Beef Stewrecipe I discovered eleven years ago in a Land O’Lakes recipe collection. My sons have grown up with it and love the sabor/taste, while I love that its low in calories. Its also extremely simple and quick to make. Overall, its a scrumptious win-win for all!
3/4 pound beef top round, 1/2 inch thick, cut into 1 inch cubes
1 medium (1/2 cup) carrot, chopped
1 small (1 1/2 cups) butternut squash, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
6 dried peaches, quartered
1 can (14 1/2 ounce) beef broth
1 can (7 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
In 2 quart saucepan melt butter until sizzling; add beef cubes. Cook over medium high heat, stirring occasionally, until browned- about 3-4 minutes.
Add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT parsley.
Continue cooking until mixture comes to a boil, about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium. Cover, cookm stirring occasionally, until beef and vegetables are tender (14 – 16 minutes)
Stir in parsley.
You can eat the Argentinean Beef stew alone or over rice, with a side salad!
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share any sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on the recipe names below.
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
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This week I am noting a Puerto Rican dish called Amarillo Relleno. It is made with an amarillo, sometimes called a madura. In English an Amarillo Relleno is a sweet ripened plantain that is filled with meat and topped with cheese.
My Madrina / Godmother would make this very simple entree with another Puerto Rican staple: arroz con gandules / rice and peas (recipe to come). It’s delicious! The sweetness of the banana is a sharp contrast to the meat filling.
*Photos to come
Amarillo Relleno
2 medium to large sweet plaintains
1 lb ground turkey
1 cup of oil
8 oz of shredded mozerella cheese (app. 2 cups)
1/2 a small onion, diced
1/2 cup diced green or red bell pepper
1 tsp. dried oregano
2 tsps. garlic powder
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. black pepper
1 envelope of Sazón with achiote
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
Preparation of Meat
Brown the ground turkey in a small pan with water.
Add onion, bell pepper, oregano, garlic, salt, pepper, Sazón with achiote, and tomato sauce.
Cover pan and continue boiling on medium flame for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Uncover pan. Continue to boil the meat for another 15 minutes or until cooked.
Preparation of Maduro (Sweet Ripened Plaintain)
Cut ends of plaintain off. Slice skin/outer layer horizontally. Peel off skin/outer layer.
Preheat oil in frying pan.
Once heated place entire plaintain in oil.
Fry each plaintain until golden on all sides.
Remove from pan. Place plaintains on paper towel to blot oil.
Preparation of Maduro Relleno
Slice cooked plaintain horizontally. Open plaintain, without tearing, to accomadate meat.
Stuff meat in the opening, filling the plaintain halfway.
Put shredded cheese on top of the meat.
Repeat step 2 & 3 until you reach top of plaintain.
Place stuffed plaintain on a baking pan.
Bake on 350-375 until cheese melts and serve!
You can eat Maduro Relleno (Stuffed sweet plaintain) with a salad or for an authentic Puerto Rican meal serve it with Arroz con gandules /rice and peas and salad.
NOTE:
This is a very rich and filling entree. I normally serve one entire Maduro Relleno per person with salad. However, if you slice the maduro relleno in half and serve with rice you can serve 4.
You can substitute beans for the meat if you want to make this a vegan dish!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
Last year, the American Heart Association unveiled its Go Red Por Tu Corazón movement at the 10th Annual Latin GRAMMY® Awards to raise awareness among Hispanic women about their threat of heart disease. This year they are back with a very special contest that can take you and a friend or a family member to this year’s Latin GRAMMY® Awards in style!
Find out how:
Bring awareness of heart disease within the Latina community and show the world your great fashion sense!
Email a photo of yourself with your favorite Red dress or Red accessory to represent Go Red Por Tu Corazón and bring awareness of heart disease
Include your name, age, contact information and a short description of why this cause is close to your heart.
AHA will then notify you via email/phone if your photo has been selected and will upload all photos on a third party photo site so that you can share with your friends on Facebook and twitter.
Share away! Encourage your friends to comment and be part of your journey as this increases your chance to win!
Stay tuned! Contest ends on October 11, 2010
Click on the photo below and check out the new Go Red Por Tu Corazón Facebook page for creative photo ideas!
Don’t forget to also like the Go Red Por Tu Corazon Facebook page and let them know Latina On a Mission sent you!
It’s Sabroso Saturday (Translation: Tasty Saturday)! The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and our taste buds, without sacrificing our health!
This week I am noting an easy peasy Salmon recipe that I use at home. My boys love it for the taste, I love it because its quick, full of Vitamin D and omega-3 and makes me look like a rock star in the kitchen!
*Photos to come
1 1/2 lbs skinless and boneless salmon filet
1/8 cup olive oil
1/8 cup of chopped parsley
2 tablespoons chopped garlic
salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Combine everything but salmon in a bowl.
Slice the salmon into 4 pieces and season with seasoning mixture on both sides. Make sure to cover it completely and leave in bowl.
Marinate salmon for about an hour in fridge.
Wrap each individual salmon in aluminum foil, pouring excess marinade on top of salmon pieces. Close tightly and place on a baking pan.
Bake for approximately 35 minutes on 375. Remove once salmon flakes with a fork.
Thats it! Easy wasn’t it? You can serve the baked salmon with rice, salad or both!
¡Buen provecho!
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Do you have a Sabroso Saturday recipe you would like to share? It’s easy!
If you are a blogger, you can share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week on your blog by adding a DIRECT link to it below.
If you do not blog but have a Latinalicious recipe that you would like to share, shoot me an e-mail at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com with “Sabroso Saturday” in the Subject line. If I am able to make it at home and my family enjoys it, I will feature it!
Readers can view linked-up recipes by clicking on their names below.
Earlier this year, Go Red for Women had a casting call. They were looking for women who wanted to share stories of the choices they’ve made to live a healthy life and improve their well-being. I did and was selected to become one of the 2010-2011 Go Red For Women and Go Red Por Tu Corazón Spokeswomen from hundreds of other applicants.
I shared my family history, as well as the trials I have faced as a Mom on a mission to lead a healthier life. I wanted to speak up and speak out, for myself, for my sons, for my family. I also spoke up because I knew there were so many other women just like me, who put their family, their mates, their jobs, their friends, and everything else before their own health.
My wake up call occurred last year, when I took my family in for our yearly check-up. I was shocked to discover that not only I had high cholesterol, but so did my teenage son. Worse, he also had high blood pressure. My doctor warned me he needed to bring both down. If he didn’t, he would be placed on medication.
I can’t begin to tell you all the things that were going through my head at that moment. I was scared, angry at myself, guilt racked to think my lifestyle had caused it, shamed that I had failed as a Mom and afraid to talk to others. I couldn’t turn to family and friends, they lived the same lifestyle as I. Worse, I feared they would judge me and my parenting skills.
Once I was able to think more clearly, I recalled reading an article on MamaLaw about Go Red For Women. I searched online and found the site. They were a treasure trove of information. They provided heart healthy recipes, tips on improving our lifestyle and a slew of other resources. They also directed me to a bilingual site made especially for Latinas: Go Red Por Tu Corazón.
I spent hours on the site, learning so many things about Latinas that I never knew, but what stuck out most was that Latinas are more likely to develop heart disease 10 years earlier than Caucasian women. That fact blew my mind!
I decided then and there that I was going to empower myself. I was going to to get proactive. I was going to change and I did.
My cholesterol is in the normal range now, as is my son’s cholesterol. He’s also lowered his blood pressure. We are healthier, but I have to admit it wasn’t easy at times and there was no magic wand. We worked at it. Sometimes my boys rebelled. Sometimes I did.
We started with small steps. We cut food portions, learned our numbers, and walked instead of taking the car, train or bus. I no longer met my girlfriends over dinner, instead we walked around the city, window shopping. It was more fun anyway! I also joined an online women’s group for support. [Thanks goes out to my #FitnCurvy Twitter friends, you ladies ROCK!]
“Its been said that it takes a community to raise a child, I want to take it a step further and say it takes a community to get healthy. Sharing my story with others would be my part in building that community and continuing the wave’s ripple effect!”
Will you join me and create a ripple effect? During the month of September, NBC is hosting a Speak Up to Save Lives Television special. Gather your girlfriends, your sisters, your mother and all the special women in your life and have a viewing party. It may change your life!
The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and/or our taste buds. Recipes that have been tested and approved by YOU.
So link up and share those savory, satisfying, succulent, ¡Sabroso! recipes. Be sure to also visit the other participants!
¡Buen provecho!
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This week I noted an easy Piña Colada Frozen Dessert recipe I learned at the Betty Crocker Kitchen in Minnesota.The perfect dessert if you want to extend your summer.
It’s summer in a bite and the perfect dessert for a romantic candle light dinner.
Piña Colada Frozen Dessert
1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 squares)
1/4 cup no-trans-fat 65% vegetable oil, spread stick or butter, melted
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
2 teaspoons rum extract or 1/4 cup rum (I prefer Bacardi)
2 teaspoons coconut extract, if desired
1/4 cup toasted* flaked coconut, if desired
PREPARATION
Heat oven to 350°F. In small bowl, mix cracker crumbs, vegetable oil spread and sugar. Press into ungreased 8-inch square (2-quart) glass baking dish. Bake about 10 minutes or until dry. Cool completely, about 1 hour.
In large bowl, beat ice cream, pineapple with juice and extracts with electric mixer on low speed just until blended. Spread in baked crust. Freeze about 6 hours or until firm.
Remove dessert from freezer about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with coconut
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare; however, you need at least 6 hours to freeze so make this the evening before you serve it.
Enjoy!
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Want to join in the Sabroso Saturday blog hop? It’s easy! Just share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week by adding a DIRECT link to it.
I heard on Twitter that Yoly will be making muffins, Carolyn will be making Mediterranean Chicken, Joscelynwill be making Chicken Fingers and Julie will be making a Pastelon de Carne! Not sure what Pastelon de Carne is? Hop on over to her blog and find out!
Make sure you visit the other participants as well!
Stretch marks, the dreaded plight of most modern women, begins during puberty and escalates with childbirth, excessive weight gain and hormonal changes.
Child birth was my downfall. Per my doctor, my skin was not elastic enough. He stated it was the worst case of stretch marks he had ever seen. He said it so nonchalantly, comparing my body’s skin tone to a weakened rubber band, without a concern for the emotional mess I was, as I watched my once smooth skin tear and bleed whenever my unborn child kicked.
Since that day, I’ve tried countless ways to eradicate my stretch marks. I did not realize it would become a never ending quest.
Along the way, I’ve learned several tidbits that may help you on your own quest to eradicate your stretch marks. I’ve noted them below.
Coco butter alleviates itching but does not prevent stretch marks.
Tans do not hide stretchmarks. Do not leave the hospital, as I did, and run to the beach in a bikini thinking to hide the stretchmarks beneath a tan. The tan, actually, accentuates your stretchmarks.
Over the counter creams do not work. Save. Your. Money.
Prescription creams have some effect on fresh stretchmarks, but very little effect on older marks.
Laser surgery does not remove older, white stretchmarks. They must be recent, red or purple colored, for laser surgery to be effective. Also note, per Dr. Yager, of Yager Esthetics, Latina’s skin tones can adversely affect the use of laser surgery, causing bruising and scarring in their skin.
After some research, I learned that stretch marks can only be permanently eradicated via surgery. Dr. Yager stated that an Abdominoplasty surgery, also known as a tummy tuck, can remove stretchmarks by cutting the skin below the bellybutton where stretch marks normally occur. The size of the surgical incision, depends on the amount of stretched, excess skin. Additionally, per Dr. Yager, a bikini line incision, based on the type of panty you wear, can be hidden underneath your undergarment or bathing suit.
Slowly but surely, I am coming to term with my stretch marks. They are a sign of womanhood, a privilege, so to speak, and I will continue to believe this … at least for now.
Have you tried any of the above mentioned treatments? Share your experience in a comment!
Disclosure: I was able to interview Dr. Yager during a social media event, where my travel expenses were covered.
The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and/or our taste buds. Recipes that have been tested and approved by YOU.
So link up and share those savory, satisfying, succulent, ¡Sabroso! recipes. Be sure to also visit the other participants!
¡Buen provecho!
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When I was younger my Titi/Aunt would always make Arroz con Leche (Spanish style rice pudding) when the family gathered. It was her specialty, her trademark dish, and we could always expect it. Now when ever I have a dish, memories of my Titi come to mind. Thank you Titi Carmen!
NOTE: I made it using healthier alternatives. I used skim milk instead of whole. I also used egg substitutes instead of whole eggs.
Arroz Con Leche (Spanish Style Rice Pudding)
1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (I use Carolina Rice)
2 cups hot water
1 cup sugar
cinnamon stick
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 cups skim milk
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup egg substitute or if you prefer real eggs use 2 whole eggs
Soak rice in hot water for about 15 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
In a saucepan, combine sugar and milk. Place saucepan over a medium flame. Stir until sugar melts, thn bring to a boil and reduce flame.
Add rice. Simmer over LOW heat for about 15 minutes or until the rice is soft and mixture is STILL liquid.
Add raisins, cinnamon stick, and egg substitute. Stir.
Let pudding cook uncovered, stirring often, until it just begins to boil.
Remove from flame.
Remove cinnamon stick and pour rice pudding into serving dishes, makes approximately 6 small servings.
Drizzle ground cinnamon over pudding.
Let stand for 15-20 minutes and serve warm (not hot).
Note, you can serve Arroz con Leche warm or cold. To serve cold, let stand for 15 minutes before refrigerating for an hour or so. Also note, the amount of sugar and cinnamon used in the recipe is based on taste. You can add more or use less if you prefer. However, I based it on my family, who tend to love the sweeter cinnamon flavor.
Enjoy!
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Want to join in the Sabroso Saturday blog hop? It’s easy! Just share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week by adding a DIRECT link to it.
Make sure you visit the other participants as well!
The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and/or our taste buds. Recipes that have been tested and approved by YOU.
So link up and share those savory, satisfying, succulent, ¡Sabroso! recipes. Be sure to also visit the other participants!
¡Buen provecho!
********************
This past week I attended the Baking With Betty event in Minneapolis with several fantastic bloggers. While at the event we were able to bake, fry and try lots of sabroso/tasty recipes. Although I LOVED them all, I have to admit crepes were my favorite because of their simplicity.
I used the original crepe recipe, changing a few ingredients to suit my family’s taste and my mission to live a healthier lifestyle. You can view original crepe recipes by going to the Betty Crocker website.
Crepes
1/2 cup Original Bisquick mix
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup skim milk (original recipe calls for regular milk)
1 tablespoon I Can’t Believe its Not Butter (original recipe uses butter, melted)
4 egg whites (original recipe calls for 2 whole eggs)
In small bowl, beat Bisquick mix, sugar, 1/2 cup skim milk, melted butter and egg whites until blended.
Grease nonstick skillet, heat over medium heat.
For each crepe, pour two teaspoons batter into skillet; immediately rotate skillet until batter covers bottom.
Cook until golden brown on bottom side. Turn and cook other side until golden brown.
Stack crepes as you remove them from skillet.
Crepes can be filled with various items. I filled my sons with bananas (noted below). I prefer mine with eggs and veggies.
Banana & Strawberry Filling:
1 1/2 cup fat free whipped cream (I prefer Reddi-Wip)
1/4 cup sugar
2 to 3 bananas, sliced
6 strawberries, sliced
In chilled medium bowl, beat whipping cream and sugar with electric mixer on high speed until stiff. Spoon about 3 tablespoons whipped cream down center of each crepe; top with 4 or 5 banana slices. Roll up; top each crepe with whipped cream and add strawberries.
Note: You can use any berry, or even granola/nuts, to the crepe. This way your children receive their daily fruit/fiber intake without realizing it!
Enjoy!
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Want to join in the Sabroso Saturday blog hop? It’s easy! Just share a sabroso/tasty recipe you have posted this week by adding a DIRECT link to it.
Make sure you visit the other participants as well!
Disclosure: General Mills covered my travel expenses; however, this in no way influenced my opinions or post.
The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and/or our taste buds. Recipes that have been tested and approved by YOU.
So link up and share those savory, satisfying, succulent, ¡Sabroso! recipes. Be sure to also visit the other participants!
¡Buen provecho!
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My sons love chicken cutlets! I used to fry them but discovered they were just as tasty, and much healthier, when baked. While at BlogHer in New York, I attended an event where Ragu provided a variation of my baked chicken cutlets. I loved it! I also love that the recipe allows me to use my left over chicken cutlets in a different manner, making it feel like a brand new meal.
Note: I changed ingredients to cut down on prep time. I used seasoned dry bread crumbs, any brand will do, versus seasoning plain bread crumbs myself. I also used Light Ragu sauce versus the suggested Ragu Old Word Style Pasta Sauce. These changes were made to save time and calories. I do not think they changed the taste of the meal.
3/4 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs (I used Italian dry bread crumbs)
6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 2 lbs.)
1 egg, beaten
1 jar (1 lb. 10 oz.) Ragú Pasta Sauce (I used Ragu’s Light sauce)
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 4 oz.)
Preheat oven to 400°. Place bread crumbs in a bowl. Dip chicken in egg, then crumb mixture; turn to coat.
Arrange chicken in 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Bake 20 minutes.
Pour Pasta Sauce over chicken; top with cheese. Bake an additional 10 minutes or until chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Once cooked, you can serve with pasta, in a sandwich or with a salad.
Tip: You can double up the recipe and freeze chicken cutlets for future use by not completing steps 2 and 3. When you are ready to prepare, preheat oven and begin with step 2.
Enjoy!
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The day when we share recipes that have helped us stretch our budget, our imagination and/or our taste buds. Recipes that have been tested and approved by YOU.
So link up and share those savory, satisfying, succulent, ¡Sabroso! recipes. Be sure to also visit the other participants!
Buen provecho!
********************
I discovered this heart healthy, as well as sabroso/tasty, meal in the Go Red for Women Recipes for the Heart booklet. It contains edamame (green soybeans), which I love and is great for maintaining your weight without losing taste. Its also a no fuss recipe thats perfect for these hot summer days!
FYI: You can sign up to receive heart healthy recipes by clicking HERE.
Edamame and Navy Bean Salad with Orange-Balsamic Dressing
1 1/2 cups of frozen shelled edamame (green soybeans)
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon balsammic vinegar (do not mix)
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon pepper1
15.5 ounce can of Navy Beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 ounces mixed salad greens, torn into bite size pieces (about 2 cups)
1/4 medium cucumber sliced crosswise
1 medium Italian plum tomato diced
1/4 cup shredded carrot
1/4 cup sliced radishes
Prepare the edamame using the package directions, omit the salt.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, mustard, 2 tablespoons vinegar, oil and pepper. Set aside
In a medium bowl stir together the edamame, navy beans, salt, and remaining 1 tablespoon vinegar. Let stand for 10 minutes at room temperature or cover and refrigerate until needed, up to 5 days.
At serving time, put the salad greens on plates. Top, in order, with the cucumber, tomato, carrot, radishes, and bean mixture. Pour the dressing over all.
I think the above salad goes well with the Simple Sangria by Julie, submitted in last week’s link-up. Let me know what you think.
Enjoy!
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Enjoyed this post? Subscribe via email or feed!Have questions about something found within this post? Read my Disclosure Policy.
I love to eat! In fact, I have the pounds to prove it!
I love savory, satisfying, succulient, sabroso meals. Notice the “S” theme? I did! Which made me think why not start a link-up for these meals, along the lines of Wordless Wednesday, where everyone can share their recipes. You would be able to link up any recipe blog post or vlog you created that week.
By sharing, we’ll tantalize our tastebuds with new recipes that have already been tested and approved by other families. Of course, I am hoping to find some sabroso/savory meals that are healthy as well, because honestly I could stand to lose a few pounds!
One recipe from the linked up posts will be highlighted each month. It will win the prestige of being that month’s “¡Sabroso! Saturday Winner” and will be showcased throughout the month.
If you have the skills and are willing to design a “¡Sabroso! Saturday Winner” button, please e-mail MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com Its a great way to promote YOUR design skills since I will make sure to note that you created it!
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Till then, I’ve noted a recipe I have tried out at my home. It was created by Leo Valenzuela for Bisquick’s “La Receta de Mi Cocina” contest (Translation: The Recipe from My Kitchen”) and won him $3,000! I loved it because it was easy to make and my boys loved it. Note: I used ground turkey instead of steak – much more economical and just as tasty!
Beef Cake with Vegetables/Leo’s Pastel de Carne con Verduras
1 large poblano chile, roasted, seeded, cut into strips
1 jalapeno or campana (Scotch bonnet) chile, finely chopped
1 can (4.5 oz) chopped green chiles, drained
1 jar (4.5 oz) Green Giant® sliced mushrooms, drained
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Topping
2 cups Original Bisquick® Mix
1 1/2 cups water
2 whole eggs
1/4 teaspoon salt, if desired
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt, if desired
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
In 12-inch skillet, heat oil over medium high heat. Add steak; cook until brown on all sides. Add onion, garlic, tomatoes, poblano chile, jalapeno chile, green chiles, mushrooms, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook over medium-high heat 3 minutes, stirring occasionally .
Place ingredients in ungreased 13x 9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish.
In medium bowl, mix all topping ingredients until blended. Pour over meat mixture in baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.
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Enjoy! Hope to see you next Saturday during our inaugral “¡Sabroso! Saturday” Link-Up!
Dance Your Ass Off, Oxygen’s dance and weight loss competionis on tour! It arrives in New York City -TODAY, June 14, 2010. The tour will feature live performances, FREE giveaways, dance lessons to make you move, and a chance to meet the show’s host, Mel B, from the Spice Girls, pictured on the left.
The event will hit Times Square today from 11AM – 3:30 PM. Perfect for your lunch hour entertainment
If you miss it, don’t worry! They will also have an evening event from 5:00PM – 10:00 PM for those who can’t escape during the day.
My teen was 14 when we discovered he needed braces. He was devastated! He didn’t want to go to high school with glasses AND braces. It was high school suicide and would ruin his rep he said. He refused and no matter how I cajoled would not relent to the metal braces.
Fast forward to his 15th birthday, he was now begging me to get him braces but not just any braces… they had to be Invisalign Teen.
Since I didn’t know too much about Invisalign, I did some research. What I discovered convinced me that these were the best! They would not only give him beautiful teeth, they would also ensure he was not teased while wearing them and save his “rep”.
Invisalign Teen braces are different from traditional metal braces. Unlike regular braces, they are don’t hurt, are removable and are practically invisible. They’re a series of custom made clear aligners, that gently nudge the teeth into the proper position. They can even be fitted before all their baby teeth have fallen out!
Since the aligners only need to be worn for about 20-22 hours a day, they can be removed for eating, brushing, flossing, to play sports or go to special events, like the prom. The Invisalign braces also have an indicator to let you know if they are being worn correctly. The indicator called the Blue Dot Wear Indicator fades to clear over a two-week period, when worn properly.
The Invisalign Teen costs about the same as traditional and other clear braces, and is covered by most types of health insurance. I’ve checked my plan and the difference is minimal. Also, most doctors offer financing options. I also have great news for my New York readers, Dr. Jacqueline Fulop-Goodling is offering a $500 Invisalign Discount at any of her three New York Offices. You only need to mention that you read about it on ”Latina On a Mission” and she will honor the discount!
Since I want to give my teen everything he needs when he leaves the nest, I plan on making my teen’s appointment soon. The Invisalign treatment takes about a year so I’m confident that he will be off to college with a great smile and a confident attitude!
There are a slew of other reasons to purchase the Invisalign Teen braces that I haven’t mention but you can read more about them by clicking HERE.
Discount Details: For any of your New York readers, Dr. Jacqueline Fulop-Goodling is offering a $500 Invisalign Discount at any of her three New York Offices. You only need to mention that you read about it on ”Latina On a Mission” and she will honor the discount! Locations and additional information can be found on her website by clicking HERE.
This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Invisalign. All opinions are 100% mine.
As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, women everywhere are preparing their bodies for their big reveal. We pay closer attention to our bodies, noting parts that may have once been neglected, like our underarms, in our preparations.
Although the underarm area is small, its appearance can have a huge impact. Imagine raising your arm in class, reaching for a work file or even stretching while on the beach and GASP showing irritation and underarm bumps. It would destroy the image you have worked so hard to create!
As one of the largest organs in our body, our skin needs moisturize to stay healthy. Moisture provides a barrier that protects our skin. This is especially true of the underarm, which loses up to 20% of it top layer each time we shave! As a result, the underarm area is much more prone to razor burn, bumps, nicks and/or scratches. However, there are ways to prevent this from happening.
While at the Dove Spa Event, I was able to speak with Dr. Debra Luftman. As a dermatologist, she has encountered and treated a variety of skin issues and has come up with a simple three step process to give us the perfect underarms. The at-home spa treatment called the PitiCure™ is the result of Dr. Luftman’s collaboration with Dove.
Step 1
Exfoliate the underarm area, using an exfoliating body wash or towelette. This step removes any impurities that can cause irritation, ingrown hairs or red bumps.
Step 2
Wait till the end of your shower to shave normally. By waiting till the end of your shower to shave you allow the steam to open up your pores, getting a closer shave. It also causes less irritation on the skin.
Step 3
Pat your underarm area dry, than apply a deodorant, like Dove Ultimate, that not only provides odor and wet protection but moisturizes as well. Moisture is key to protecting the skin’s natural barrier, especially in an area like the underarm which loses up to 20% of its top layer during shaving.
In addition to the above steps, Dr. Luftman noted two other very important rules for great underarm skin. I have to admit, I was guilty of both!
Do not leave razors in the shower. The shower is a breeding ground for bacteria, which leads to shaving irritation or infection.
Replace razors every two weeks. Dull, dirty and rusty razors cause nicks, ingrown hairs and irritation.
After trying the simple Piticure steps, I feel better prepared to show off my underarms. As my Mommy always said, “Knowledge is power!”
Disclosure: In order to review the Piticure steps, I received a Dove Deodorant, towelettes and razor; however, they in no way influenced my assessment of Piticure.
Lately, because of the Tiger Woods and Jesse James scandals we’ve been hearing more about sex addiction. At first I questioned whether it was a legitamite condition or an excuse given by cheating men; however, after watching the Dr. Oz show I can now see how it can be seen as an addiction.
Dictionary.com defines addiction as follows:
the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, as narcotics, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma.
On the show, Dr. Drew Pinsky, a leading addiction specialist explained and discussed sexual addiction. Did the dictionary definition jibe with the one given by the esteemed doctor? Yes, it did. Sex causes pleasure, can be psychologically and physically habit forming and can cause severe trauma when stopped. It is as real as eating disorders or alcohol dependencies. Yet, in our society it can go unnoticed because promiscuity is condoned and male conquests celebrated. Does this mean it does not cause damage? Far from it! Sexual addictions destroy families, leave children without a foundation, and put the addict and their mate at risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease.
What can you do to protect yourself? According to the esteemed Dr. Pinsky you should know the signs. Below I have listed them.
Difficulty with emotions: Unable to show emotions, difficulty connecting with others on an emotional level. Person seems distant.
Changes in libido: Libido increases or decreases.
Excessive Internet Use: Viewing pornography or spending too much time on social media, online chat rooms.
Mood swings before or after sex: Disconnected, agitated or aggravated instead of intimate.
Doesn’t socialize well: Isolates self or socializes in strange ways. Not able to read others or connect with others.
As a busy Mom of two active boys I sometimes opt for the quickest and unhealthiest meals. However, I am trying to change our gameplan and was lucky enough to have Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, LDN, create this sponsored post!
Mil gracias /Many thanks Silvia for providing us with these simple steps for boosting our health and a Latinalicious recipe that will tantilize our tastebuds!
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With Spring upon us, now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your diet and find ways to make the most out of every meal. This may seem like a daunting task, but with a few simple steps you can boost your health without sacrificing flavor.
1. Select a Natural Source of Omega-3
One of the easiest first steps you can do to improve your diet is to add more omega-3s. Studies show that a diet containing omega-3s may decrease the risk of certain cancers, decrease blood pressure, reduce Alzheimer’s symptoms, improve arthritis and joint pain, and promote heart health. Since our bodies cannot make omega-3 fatty acids, it’s important to regularly include them in our diets.
Not sure where to start? Try a natural source. Many experts, including the American Heart Association, recommend consuming at least two servings of seafood a week. Fish and seafood – like shrimp, tilapia and salmon – are a natural source of omega-3s, a great lean protein option and are full of vitamins and minerals including iron; zinc; and vitamins A, B and D.
I’ve found that many people are intimidated when it comes to preparing fish, but it really can be so easy. The secret is to keep the ingredients simple and flavorful and look for shortcuts to take time out of the preparation without losing the flavor. For me, frozen seafood (my family likes Gorton’s) is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to enjoy fish at home.
2. Lighten up Side Dishes
Try side dishes that are steamed or broiled, like mixed vegetables, instead of side dishes cooked in butter or oil. And, seek out substitutions to reduce sodium and fat:
Instead of salt, try a splash of low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth. One-quarter tsp of salt contains 500 mg of sodium, while one-quarter cup low sodium chicken broth only contains 25 mg sodium.
Replace white rice and pasta with a whole-grain variety. Whole grain pasta/rice is rich in complex carbohydrates, vitamins, fiber and antioxidants.
Use non-stick cooking spray in place of butter
Substitute mayonnaise with non-fat yogurt
3. Cook with Nutrient Dense Foods
Add fiber filling, nutrient dense foods like leafy greens, lentils and other beans to your recipes for a healthy serving of vitamins and minerals without adding any fat. I also like to use avocado in place of cheese for an extra nutrient boost.
Try my Mini Tostadas with Guacamole and Shrimp for a flavorful snack packed with nutrients. Gorton’s Classic Grilled Shrimp add an authentic flavor with no extra seasoning or preparation needed. For more recipes and meal ideas, visit www.gortons.com
Mini Tostadas with Guacamole and Shrimp
4-6 Servings (12 mini tortillas)
Ingredients:
1 (8oz.) package Gorton’s Classic Grilled Shrimp
4 ripe avocados
2 tablespoons lime juice (or the juice of 1/2 lime)
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste
10-12 mini tortillas (about 3″diameter), toasted or round tortilla chips
Directions:
1. Prepare Gorton’s Classic Grilled Shrimp according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl gently mash avocado pulp with a fork.
3. Add lime juice, cilantro and salt. Fold gently.
4. To assemble tostadas, place mini tortillas on a serving platter and divide guacamole among all the tortillas.
5. Top each prepared tortilla with one prepared Gorton’s Classic Grilled Shrimp. Remove shrimp tail for easier eating.
ABOUT SYLVIA MELENDEZ-KLINGER
Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, LDN, is founder of Hispanic Food Communications, Inc., a food communications and culinary consulting company. She is an active member of the American Dietetic Association and the Grain Foods Foundation Medical Advisory Board. She also serves as the nutritionist for the national syndicated show Hispanics Toda, a frequent guest for Univision’s popular show Despierta America and Telemundo Chicago News, and a columnist for Paisano newspaper and decisivemagazine.com.
This is a Sponsored Post written by Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, LDN.
This morning I woke up and completed my usual routine. I went to the kitchen, set my *Keurig coffeemaker, brushed my teeth and took a shower. When I finished I picked up my wonderfully, rejuvenating cup of French Vanilla coffee and sat down at my kitchen table to relax before the morning rush. As I savored my cup of coffee, it hit me! In about two months, I would be heading out to Atlanta, Georgia for Blogalicious 2009!
I hadn’t exactly forgotten about the event, but in the back of my mind, it seemed so much farther away. As a speaker, I was excited. Yet as a woman, I was anxious because I hadn’t kept up with my physical routine and I would be speaking in front of everyone! In fact, instead of losing weight, I had actually put on 5 more pounds. Definitely not a good thing for my health or my wardrobe!
I decided today that I would start my exercise routine again. I pledge to work out at least 4 days a week for thirty minutes each day. I also pledge to eat healthier, which means no more fast food or bagels with butter and jelly in the mornings (Ayeeeee I will miss you bagel!). I will also kidnap one of my co-workers (K?) and walk for at least half of my lunch hour.
My weight loss goal is twenty pounds; however, I’ll be happy if I lose ten by October. Like I posted before (click HERE to see my previous post), I need to do it for myself, not only because it will help me fit in my skinny clothes but also because it will give me more energy.
Now ask yourself … are YOU ready?! Cause I am! I’m ready for a healthier me AND for Blogalicious 2009!
*In a few short weeks, shoffee.com will be sponsoring a Keurig coffeemaker giveaway on Latina On a Mission. Its the perfect College Dorm accessory, small enough to fit in a dorm room and big enough to let you savor the flavor! Keep your eyes peeled. You won’t want to miss it!
Another weight loss television competition has hit the ground running dancing and is set to burn those calories while teaching you to dance hip-hop, ballroom, salsa, and yup thats right pole dancing (6 inch heels anyone?!)! The show set to air on Oxygen premiers on June 29 at 10 PM.
Marissa Jaret Winokur, who plays Tracy Turnblad in the hit Broadway show “Hairspray”, is set to host this new weight loss competition, a combination of “The Biggest Loser” and “Dancing With the Stars”. They couldn’t have picked a better host! She’s brings a realistic touch to the program because she is going through the very same issue as the contestants: being an overweight dancer. Yet she takes on the role without shame and dances her own arse off! I love it!
If you’re in the New York City area on June 29, you my Latinalicious reader are in for a very special treat! Oxygen and Marissa are going to host a “Dance Your Ass Off” experience in Herald Square from 11 AM to 6 PM. You will be able to dance with professional dancers on a stage shaped like a scale!
Hopefully, you’re able to make it because this will be the only scale you ever step on that will applaud your added weight! Now go ahead and “Dance Your Ass Off”!
I haven’t written in my diet journal in quite sometime. I am ashamed to say that I have gained weight instead of losing it! This is killing me because I really do NOT want to buy new summer clothes. This is actually my greatest motivator, saving money, so I recently started the Jillian Michaels – 30 Day Shred. I absolutely LOVE it! It gets me moving, keeps me animated and works out all of my body. I plan on using it for the recommended 30 days, hoping that it will help me lose at least 2 lbs a week (8lbs) by the end of June. Its a small step but one that will keep me motivated.
If anyone is interested she also has a website to help you in your weight loss process. Click HERE to go to the site.
Also, if you leave me your e-mail address and/or blog address in a comment we can buddy up in our weight loss mission! Staying motivated is key and I know TOGETHER we can do this!
Please bear with me as my site goes through some changes. You may find that the pages do not look the same or a post you wish to see has been moved to another section. Although I do not believe you will have these issues I would not want you miss out on any Latinalicious goodies! However, if you do find that this is the case, you can just simply enter the term you are searching in the search box on the right-hand side of the blog and it should pull it up!
In the meantime, I can’t leave you empty handed, that just wouldn’t be a Latinalicious thing to do! So I have a tidbit for you…
If you join the Allure Cheater’s Diet, you will receive a $5 gift card from e.l.f cosmetics! Just click HERE to subscribe and save some ca-ching! Of course, the diet tips are great too.
Note: This Freebie is only available on April 30 and while supplies last so avansa/hurry!
I am a very petite Latina, about 5 ft 1 inch. According to the doctor I should weigh between 120 -129 lbs for my height and age. Personally I think this is too thin, especially because this Latina tends to be hippy(Hmmm Is that a word-spell check says it isn’t). I mean seriously I like my J-Lo derriere! I also love my sons, hate the thought of letting my thin clothes go to waste, and want to lower my cholesterol, which means that I must do as the doctor says and lose a few pounds.
I have tried Weight Watchers (hate counting!) and Nutri System (not realistic for my budget plans) to no avail. I enjoy eating which makes it so much harder! Yet Carol makes it sound so easy that I figured why not? Hoping to make my own mission to a healthier me successful this third time around (Isn’t the third time the charmer?!), I did a search on Swagbucks for some FREE advise and found My FitnessPal. I figure since I’m online most of the time anyway this will make it easier to keep track of my progress. My FitnessPal offers a FREE calorie counter, as well as a diet and exercise journel. When signing up, you are asked to provide your DOB, height, weight, desired weight loss, activity level and your expected weight loss timeframe. They then provide you with charts and reports. As a visual person, this was perfect for me! Below is a snapshot of how many calories I can consume in a day if I exercise 4x a week for 30 minutes. Based on their calculations, I should lose a little over 1 pound a week. This is a healthy target weight loss goal. By summer I should be able to fit into last years clothes, making me healthier and wealthier!
Your progress is also marked in a chart that can be shared with others! You can follow my progress on My FitnessPal, by clicking HERE or on the button to the right. Of course, feel free to join me on my “healthier me” journey! We can motivate each other!
Thank you Carol for inspiring with your own weight loss journey!
Are you a chocolate fiend who’s worried about calories? Well this little tidbit is for YOU! Whether its dark chocolate, white chocolate, or rich milk chocolate Mr. David Edwards, a Harvard Professor, has the chocolate for you.
Mr. Edwards has created the first inhalable chocolate which can be purchased online. The claims are that one puff will coat your mouth with chocolate and that each puff is less than one calorie. The container, which resembles an asthma pump and a lipstick case, is sold in individually sealed packages. Each container contains about four puffs. A pack of six costs about $53. Purchases can be made via their site, by clicking HERE.
Call me old-fashioned (AND CHEAP) but I don’t think that inhaling my chocolate will give me the “fix” that I need, especially during my inner chocolate fiend’s monthly visit. What do you think? Would you be willing to try it?
When Ms. Latina asked me to do a guest post on her blog, I was flattered.We had been tweeting about food and I mentioned I was having gallo pinto. Gallo Pinto for those who don’t know is “el plato tipico de Costa Rica.”Nothing says Costa Rican food like gallo pinto.Now I know other countries have their own version but I am here to tell you about my version.
Gallo Pinto translates into “painted rooster.” Gallo pinto is just rice and beans cooked with onions and bell pepper and Salsa Lizano. Salsa Lizano is a sort of Costa RicanWorcestershire sauce. It is fabulous. It’s hard to find here but I get my supply from Costa Rica when my parents visit. An interesting tidbit is that one of my great uncles invented this sauce and then sold it to the Lizanocompany and they made a fortune while he did not. He got some money but the Lizano’s are the ones who made the money because the sauce is a Costa Rican staple and used in everything.
It’s super easy to make.I warn you, I don’t do recipes, I just willy nilly cook.Take half an onion and dice it up.Dice up half a red bell pepper.Sauté them in a little oil until they get soft.I cheat and use canned black beans because I am lazy and hate making real beans but you can make your own; it’s better that way.Add the beans to the pan and then add some garlic, salt and pepper to taste.I also add a little cilantro and, of course, the Salsa Lizano but you can use Worcestershire sauce (again to taste). Then add cooked white rice.Mix it up. That’s it!
My abuelita used to serve this to us con un huevito fritofor breakfast. But I use it mainly as an entrée or side dish.I love eating this with fresh pan y mantequilla and with a dollop of natilla (sour cream).
Unlike the cuisines of Mexico, Cuba or Argentina, Costa Rican food isn’t that distinctive but this is one dish that is verytipico of the country.I love having this because it reminds of being there having breakfast with my familia when I go visit.It also reminds me of my abuelita Hilda and being in her kitchen learning how to cook.
Buen provecho!!
Thank you Carolyn for this delicious AND healthy recipe! I have to tell you when I saw the pics I was drooling at work! I plan on making it this weekend and sneaking in some brown rice (Doc said no more white for me- Blahhhh to her!). I also did a search and found the Lizano sauce on Amazon: Lizano Salsa Sauce 9 Oz / 280ml. Wooo Hooo!
Check out Carolyn’s blog, Carolyn in Carolina, and leave her some comment luv! Just keep an out for Scott, he’s a Natural Born Killer!
that’s all the rage right now. That’s the bottom of my rice pot which he scrubbed so vigoriously. It seems he was sooooo excited to help me with the dishes that he put all his might into taking the pegao /burnt rice off the bottom. (FYI, some Latinos intentionally make the bottom of the rice burn because of the taste/ flavor it obtains while cooking) Anyway, my youngest thought he should use a fork or spoon to remove the pegao from the bottom of the pot not realizing that he was actually scraping my pot. Don’t you just love it?!
Ingredients
Vegan Stuffed Peppers 
.I prefer the Goya brand but you can use any Adobo brand.
Banana & Strawberry Filling:
Invisalign Teen braces are different from traditional metal braces. Unlike regular braces, they are don’t hurt, are removable and are practically invisible. They’re a series of custom made clear aligners, that gently nudge the teeth into the proper position. They can even be fitted before all their baby teeth have fallen out! 
. Wooo Hooo!
