LEMON – BASIL CHICKEN PASTA WITH MUSHROOMS – ONION – CORN IN BROTH

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–lemon juice

–lemon zest

–lemon pepper

–basil (fresh if possible, 8 to 10 large leaves, chopped)

–pasta (bowtie or penne, 1 cup, dry)

–mushrooms (baby bellas, 8 to 10, sliced)

–onion (1, medium, sliced)

–corn (frozen, one-half cup)

–chicken broth (non-fat, low sodium)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place 1 cup bowtie (farfalle) or penne pasta in an uncovered baking dish with water to cover 1 inch above the pasta.  Season with salt.  Microwave on high for 6 minutes; then microwave on 50 percent power for 8 minutes.  When finished, keep covered to preserve warmth.

2 – Place 8 to 10 sliced baby bella mushrooms, 1 medium onion, and one-half cup frozen corn in a covered baking dish with a little chicken broth.  Season with lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon pepper, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 4 minutes.  When finished, keep covered to preserve warmth.

3 – Place 6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips in a covered baking dish with a little chicken broth.  Season with lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon pepper, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 8 and one-half minutes.  When finished, cut into bite-sized pieces.

4 – Drain the pasta, and add to the vegetables.  Then add the cut-up chicken.  Stir well.  Add a generous amount of chopped basil (fresh if possible) on top.  Finish with a few drops of olive oil.

5 – Serve the chicken pasta hot.  Leftovers are best served cold.

–chicken pasta adapted from Real Simple magazine.

SESAME SALMON WITH MAPLE SYRUP – PAPRIKA – CAYENNE – ONION IN MAPLE – CLAM JUICE SAUCE

For 4:

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–maple syrup

–paprika

–cayenne pepper

–onion (one-half, medium, sliced)

–clam juice (bottled)

–sesame seeds

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Slice one-half medium onion.  Place in a covered baking dish with a very little clam juice.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 3 minutes.

2 – Nestle the salmon amid the onion.  Drench in maple syrup.  Season with paprika, cayenne pepper (more or less to taste), salt, pepper, sesame seeds, and a few drops of olive oil.

3 – Microwave the salmon and sauce for 7 and one-half minutes on high.

4 – Serve the salmon hot, atop jasmine rice (recipe, see the search box on this blog).

–salmon adapted from Antonietta’s blog, “Simply Pure, Simply Fresh.”

BREADCRUMB – TOPPED COD IN WHITE WINE & SERVED WITH CREAMY SAUCE OF CRAB MEAT – PARSLEY – MINT – CAPERS – LEMON – WHITE WINE – EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL ATOP JASMINE RICE

Note:  The original recipe for the sauce used tuna.

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–breadcrumbs (boxed)

–white wine

–olive oil

–jasmine rice (1 cup, packaged)

The sauce:

–crab meat (one-half small can, drained)

–parsley (fresh, 1 handful, chopped)

–mint (5 leaves, fresh, chopped, optional)

–capers (2 tablespoons, drained, bottled)

–lemon juice (bottled, 1 squirt)

–white wine (3 tablespoons)

–extra virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons)

1 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish with a little white wine.  Drench in olive oil.  Season with salt and pepper.  Sprinkle lightly with breadcrumbs.  Microwave on high for 8 and one-half minutes.  (Cod is done when it begins to break apart.)

2 – Place the following in a food processor:  one-half small can of drained crab meat; 1 chopped handful of fresh parsley, 5 chopped leaves of fresh mint (optional), 2 tablespoons of drained capers, 1 squirt of lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of white wine, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.  Puree until creamy; it takes some time to make a creamy sauce in a food processor.

3 – Serve the cod hot, with the sauce at room temperature and ladled over the top.  Place the cod on jasmine white rice (1 cup rice, 1 and three-fourth’s cup water, microwave on high for 5 minutes, then microwave on 50 percent power for 10 minutes).

–sauce adapted from Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

MINT SALMON ENCRUSTED WITH MINCED PEANUTS & TOPPED WITH PARSLEY & LEMON SLICES

Note:  My husband called this salmon recipe a “winner,” 5 out of 5 stars, one of my best salmon recipes.  You can tell he loved it!

For 4:

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–mint (fresh if possible)

–peanuts (one-third cup, minced in a food processor)

–parsley (fresh, 1 handful, chopped)

–lemon (fresh)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish with a little water (for steaming).  Season with salt, pepper, and chopped mint. 

2 – In a food processor, pulse one-third cup of peanuts until finely minced.  Spread the minced peanuts atop the salmon.

3 – With a very sharp knife, slice a fresh lemon.  Place the slices atop the salmon.  Finish with 1 handful of chopped, fresh parsley, and a few drops of olive oil.

4 – Microwave on high for 8 minutes.

5 – Serve the salmon hot.

–salmon inspired by the New York Times cooking site.

PESTO PASTA WITH HOMEMADE SAUCE OF FRESH BASIL – LETTUCE – TOASTED WALNUTS – PARMESAN – MINCED GARLIC – EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

For 4:

–pasta (bowtie (farfalle), 2 cups, dry)

–basil (fresh)

–lettuce

–walnuts (toasted, 1 handful)

–extra virgin olive oil (bottled)

–Parmesan cheese (shredded)

–garlic (minced, in a jar)

–salt and pepper

1 – Place 2 cups of farfalle pasta in an uncovered baking dish with a little salt and water to cover, above 1 inch.  Microwave on high for 6 minutes; then microwave on 50 percent power for 10 minutes.  When finished, keep covered to preserve warmth.

2 – Microwave 2 cups of water on high for 6 minutes (until boiling).  Add 1 handful of fresh basil, and microwave for just 5 seconds (yes, seconds).  Immediately plunge the basil in a bowl of ice water.  Repeat with 2 handfuls of chopped lettuce.

3 – Remove the basil and lettuce from the ice water, and, with paper towels, squeeze out the water.  Then place in a food processor.

4 – Add to the food processor, the following:  2 handfuls of toasted walnuts, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, one-half cup of extra virgin olive oil, one-fourth cup of Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.  Pulse until smooth.  If too thick a sauce, add more olive oil.

5 – Drain the pasta, and add the sauce to it, stirring well.  Pasta will be room temperature when served.

–pesto adapted from Real Simple magazine.

BARBECUED CHICKEN WITH HOMEMADE SAUCE

Note:  This is the best barbecue sauce that I have ever found.  A real hit at my house.

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–salt and pepper

The sauce:

–ketchup (two-thirds cup)

–olive oil (2 tablespoons)

–onion bits (bottled)

–onion powder (bottled)

–minced garlic (1 tablespoon)

–brown sugar (3 tablespoons)

–apple juice (3 tablespoons)

–Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon)

–maple syrup (1 tablespoon)

–Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons)

–cayenne pepper (to taste, optional)

1 – Place two-thirds cup of ketchup in a covered baking dish.  Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of apple juice, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce.  Season generously with onion bits and onion powder; cayenne pepper to taste.  Stir thoroughly.  Microwave for 3 minutes on high.

2 – Nestle the chicken amid the sauce.  Season with salt, pepper, and a few drops of olive oil.

3 – Microwave on high for 8 minutes.  Check a center piece of chicken for doneness.  If not cooked, replace in the microwave for 1 minute more.

–recipe adapted from Real Simple magazine.

Inspired by “We Wine We Dine” blog: SALMON WITH HONEY – DIJON – HORSERADISH SAUCE TOPPED BY FRESH PARSLEY IN CLAM JUICE

For 4:

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–honey (bottled)

–Dijon mustard (bottled)

–horseradish sauce (mild, bottled)

–parsley (fresh, chopped, 1 handful)

–clam juice (bottled)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish with a little clam juice.  Season with salt and pepper.  In a small mixing bowl, place 1 tablespoon each of Dijon mustard, horseradish sauce, honey, and olive oil.  Stir well.  Spread the sauce atop the salmon.  Finish with chopped parsley.  Microwave on high for 7 and one-half minutes.

2 – Serve the salmon hot.

–salmon inspired by We Wine We Dine blog.

BAKED LIME COD SPRINKLED WITH CUMIN & GARLIC – HERB BREADCRUMBS TOPPED WITH LIME SLICES AND IN WHITE WINE SAUCE

Note:  The original recipe called for tilapia.

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–cumin (bottled)

–garlic – herb breadcrumbs (boxed)

–lime juice (bottled)

–lime (fresh, medium, sliced)

–white wine

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish with a little white wine.    Drench in lime juice and then olive oil.  Season with salt, pepper, and cumin.  Sprinkle some garlic – herb breadcrumbs on top.  With a very sharp knife, slice a fresh lime.  Place atop the cod.  Finish with a few drops of olive oil.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes.  (Cod is done when it begins to break apart.)

2 – Serve the cod hot.

–inspired by Appleby’s restaurant.

GARLIC & HERB – BREADED COD WITH SWEET ONION IN CLAM JUICE & SERVED WITH CHILLED & PUREED RAW SAUCE OF TOMATO – ONION – GARLIC – BASIL – PARSLEY – ROMAINE LETTUCE – RED WINE – OLIVE OIL

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–garlic – herb breadcrumbs (boxed

–onion (one-fourth, Vidalia (or sweet), sliced)

–clam juice (bottled)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

The sauce:

–tomato (1, medium, chopped)

–onion (one-fourth, Vidalia (or sweet), sliced)

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–basil, parsley (fresh if possible, 1 handful each)

–romaine lettuce (1 small handful, broken up)

–red wine (2 tablespoons)

–extra virgin olive oil (bottled)

–salt and pepper

1 – Add to a food processor:  1 medium chopped tomato, one-fourth medium, sliced, sweet onion, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 handful of chopped basil; 1 handful of chopped parsley, 1 small handful of chopped romaine lettuce, 2 tablespoons of red wine, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.  Puree until smooth. Place in the refrigerator until time for dinner.

2 – Slice one-quarter medium sweet onion, and place in a covered baking dish.  Place the cod in the dish with a little clam juice.  Drench in olive oil.  Season with salt and pepper.  Sprinkle lightly with garlic – herb breading.  Microwave on high for 8 minute.

3 – Serve the cod hot, with the raw sauce beside the cod.

–raw sauce adapted from Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

A Simple Dinner: TANGY CHICKEN WITH SWEET ONION & RUSSIAN SAUCE SPRINKLED WITH DRIED CRANBERRIES

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–sweet onion salad dressing (bottled, one-third cup)

–Russian salad dressing (or Catalina; bottled, one-third cup)

–dried cranberries (packaged, 1 handful)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place one-third cup of Russian or Catalina salad dressing in a covered baking dish.  Add one-third cup of sweet onion salad dressing.  Sprinkle with several drops of olive oil.  Stir thoroughly.  Nestle the chicken in the sauce.  Season with salt and pepper.  Sprinkle 1 handful of dried cranberries on top.

2 – Microwave on high for 8 and one-half minutes.  When finished, test a center piece of chicken for doneness; if not cooked, replace in the microwave for 1 minute more.

3 – Serve the chicken and sauce hot.

–chicken and sauce inspired by the food.com web site.

PARSLEYED COD WITH FRESH TOMATO & VIDALIA ONION IN WHITE WINE SAUCE

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–parsley (fresh, 1 handful, chopped)

–tomato (1, medium, chopped)

–Vidalia onion (one-half, medium, sliced)

–white wine

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Chop 1 medium fresh tomato and place in a covered baking dish with a little white wine.  Add one-half sliced Vidalia onion (or sweet onion).  Microwave on high for 3 minutes.  Then nestle the cod amid the sauce.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Sprinkle 1 handful of chopped parsley on top.  Microwave on high for 6 minutes; then microwave on 50 percent power for 6 minutes.

2 – Serve the cod and sauce hot, atop quinoa, pasta, couscous, or rice (recipes see the search box on this blog).

–cod adapted from Rene Verdon’s The White House Chef Cookbook (from the Kennedy administration).

SALMON WITH PEACHES & VIDALIA ONION SEASONED WITH GINGER – THYME – LEMON IN PEACH JUICE ATOP QUINOA COOKED IN BROTH

For 4:

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–peaches (small can, save the juice)

–Vidalia onion (one-half, sliced)

–ginger, thyme (bottled)

–lemon juice (bottled)

–quinoa (boxed)

–chicken broth (non-fat, low sodium)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place a small can of peaches with juice in a covered baking dish.  Add one-half, sliced, Vidalia onion.  Season with salt, pepper, thyme, ginger, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 5 minutes.

2 – Nestle the salmon amid the peaches and juice.  Drench in lemon juice.  Season with salt, pepper, thyme, ginger, and olive oil.

3 – Microwave on high for 6 minutes; then microwave on 50 percent power for 6 minutes more.

4 – Serve the salmon and sauce atop quinoa (recipe, use the search box on this blog).

–salmon adapted from the Real Simple web site.

A Simple Dinner: PARSLEYED PECAN COD WITH PARMESAN & FETA STEAMED IN WHITE WINE

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–pecan chips (half a small package)

–Parmesan cheese

–feta cheese

–parsley (1 handful, chopped, fresh)

–white wine

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish with a very little white wine, just to steam.  Season with salt and pepper.  Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, feta cheese, and pecan chips on top.  Finish with a few drops of olive oil and 1 handful of chopped parsley.  Microwave on high for 8 and one-half minutes.  When finished, test to be sure that the cod is done; cod is done when it begins to break apart.

2 – Serve the cod hot.

–recipe original.

A Simple Dinner: SALMON WITH DIJON – LEMON – PARSLEY IN CLAM JUICE

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–Dijon mustard (bottled)

–lemon juice (bottled)

–parsley (fresh)

–clam juice

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish with a little clam juice.  Season with salt and pepper.  In a small mixing bowl, place 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice (added slowly and stirring).  Then chop 1 handful of fresh parsley, and add to the Dijon/lemon.  Finish with a few drops of olive oil. Stir well.  Spread over the salmon.  Microwave on high for 7 and one-half minutes.

2 – Serve the salmon hot.

–salmon adapted from 20 Savory Salmon Recipes.

PARSLEYED COD WITH MINCED GARLIC & CAYENNE IN LEMON – LIME SAUCE ATOP JASMINE RICE

Note:  The chef who devised this recipe, Edward Giobbi, says, “Personally, I think this sauce is divine.”  My husband and I concur.

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–parsley

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–cayenne pepper (optional)

–lemon juice (bottled)

–lime juice (bottled)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish.  Drench in both lime and lemon juice, enough to make a sauce.  Season the cod with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (optional).  Drop minced garlic on top of the cod.  Sprinkle chopped parsley.  Finish with a few drops of olive oil.

2 – Microwave the cod on high for 8 minutes.  Test to be sure that it is done.  Cod is done when it begins to break apart.

3 – Serve the cod and sauce hot, atop jasmine rice (recipe, see the search box on this blog).

–cod adapted from Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

GINGER CHICKEN WITH MINCED GARLIC & VIDALIA ONION IN TERIYAKI MARINADE

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–ginger (bottled)

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–Vidalia onion (one-half, medium, sliced)

–teriyaki marinade

–pepper

–olive oil

1 – Slice one-half Vidalia (or sweet) onion, and place in a covered baking dish with a little teriyaki marinade.  Season with pepper, ginger, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 3 minutes.

2 – Place the chicken in the teriyaki marinade.  Season with pepper, ginger, and olive oil.  Spread minced garlic, 1 tablespoon, atop the chicken.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes.  When finished, test a center piece of chicken for doneness; if not cooked, microwave for 1 minute more.

3 – Serve the chicken, marinade, and onions hot, atop jasmine rice (recipe, see the search box on this blog).

–recipe original.

A Simple Dinner: BUTTERY SALMON WITH LEMON SLICES

For 4:

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–Promise margarine (heart-healthy)

–lemon (1, medium)

–lemon juice

–salt and pepper

1 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish with a little water.  Drench in lemon juice.  Season with salt and pepper.  Spread, with 2 spoons, margarine over the top of the salmon, a generous amount.  With a very sharp knife, slice a lemon.  Place the lemon slices atop the salmon.

2 – Microwave the salmon on high for 7 and one-half minutes.  When finished, test the center to be sure that it is done; if not, replace in the microwave for 1 minute more.

3 – Serve the salmon hot.

–salmon adapted from 20 Savory Salmon Recipes.

COD SOUP WITH POTATOES – ONION – CELERY & SEASONED WITH CORIANDER – GINGER – BASIL – LIME IN WHITE WINE – MARINARA BASE

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–potatoes (2, medium)

–onion (one-half, medium)

–celery (2 stalks, chopped)

–coriander, ginger, basil (bottled)

–lime juice (bottled)

–white wine (use the real stuff, not cooking wine)

–marinara sauce (5 tablespoons; I used Newman’s Own cabernet)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Scrub the potatoes, leaving the skins on.  Chop into bite-sized pieces.  Place in a large, deep, covered baking dish with white wine to cover to 1 inch above the potatoes.  Chop one-half medium onion, and add to the potatoes.  Chop 2 stalks of celery, and add to the dish.  Season with salt, pepper, coriander, ginger, basil, and olive oil.  Add 5 tablespoons of marinara sauce, and stir well.  Microwave on high for 20 minutes, checking often to be sure that sauce is not bubbling up over the dish (if so, double remaining time and cook on 50 percent power).

2 – When finished, place the cod in the sauce.  Drench in lime juice.  Season with salt, pepper, coriander, ginger, basil, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 9 minutes (check frequently for overflow; longer if on 50 percent power).

3 – Serve the cod soup, hot, in bowls.

–cod soup inspired by Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

OVEN FRIED CALAMARI/SQUID ROLLED IN GARLIC – HERB BREADCRUMBS & ACCOMPANIED BY CORNBREAD DRESSING WITH TOASTED WALNUTS – PARSLEY – WHITE WINE – CHICKEN BROTH

Note:  If you buy 1 large squid, microwave in water for 15 minutes in a deep baking dish.  If you buy numerous smaller squid and tentacles, microwave in water for 10 minutes.  Squid will remain chewy.

For 4:

–calamari/squid (thawed from frozen, 1 package)

–garlic – herb breadcrumbs (boxed)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

–cornbread dressing (stuffing; I used Pepperidge Farm herb cornbread)

–toasted walnuts (1 handful, chopped)

–parsley (fresh, 1 handful, chopped)

–white wine (one-fourth cup)

–chicken broth (low sodium, no fat)

1 – Place the squid in a deep, uncovered, baking dish with 2 inches of water.  If large, microwave for 15 minutes on high.  If numerous small squid, microwave for 10 minutes on high.  Remove the squid from the water with a slotted spoon, and slice into rings.  Then place in a plastic bag.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Pour in a generous amount of garlic – herb breadcrumbs.  Shake well.  Set aside.

2 – Chop a handful of toasted walnuts, a handful of fresh parsley, and add to a covered baking dish.  Add one-fourth cup of white wine to the baking dish.  Stir.  Add 2 cups of cornbread stuffing, and a generous amount of chicken broth to moisten.  Season with a few drops of olive oil.   Stir.  Microwave on high for 2 minutes.  When finished, keep covered to preserve warmth.

3 – Place the squid in one layer in a covered baking dish.  Microwave for 1 and one-half minutes more.

4 – Serve the calamari/squid hot, atop the dressing.

–squid/calamari adapted from Ed Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

SPICY SALMON WITH PAPRIKA – TURMERIC – GINGER – ONION – GARLIC – PARSLEY IN A CREAMY MARINARA SAUCE ATOP PARMESAN COUSCOUS

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–paprika, turmeric, ginger (bottled)

–onion (one-half, medium, sliced)

–garlic (minced, in a jar)

–parsley (fresh if possible)

–creamer (dairy or almond; soy doesn’t microwave well)

–marinara sauce (one-half jar; I used Newman’s Own cabernet)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place 1 and one-third cup of water in a covered baking dish, with the spice packet from a box of Parmesan couscous.  Season with a few drops of olive oil.  Microwave on high for 6 minutes (or until boiling).  When finished, add the couscous; stir.  Keep covered for at least 5 minutes.

2 – Place one-half jar of marinara sauce in a covered baking dish.  Add one-third cup of almond or dairy creamer and one-half medium sliced onion.  Season with 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and a few drops of olive oil.  Stir well. Microwave on high for 3 minutes.

3 – Place the salmon in the sauce.  Season with salt, pepper, paprika, turmeric, ginger, and olive oil.  Spread 1 teaspoon of minced garlic on top.  Finish by sprinkling with chopped, fresh parsley.  Microwave on high for 5 and one-half minutes.  When finished, test the center to be sure it is done.  If not, replace in the microwave for 1 minute more.

4 – Serve the salmon and sauce hot, atop the Parmesan couscous.

–salmon adapted from the blog, Immaculate Bites, by Imma.  Imma features Afro – Caribbean recipes made easy.

FRESH ROSEMARY – MINCED GARLIC CHICKEN IN WHITE WINE SAUCE WITH A SIDE OF CORNBREAD DRESSING SEASONED WITH DRIED CRANBERRIES – MUSHROOMS – ONION – TOASTED WALNUTS

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–rosemary (fresh; 3 sprigs)

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–white wine

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

–cornbread dressing (I used Pepperidge Farm herb cornbread)

–dried cranberries (packaged, 1 handful)

–mushrooms (baby bellas, 4, diced)

–onion (one-fourth, large onion, sliced)

–toasted walnuts (1 handful; cook one-half large package of walnuts for 2 minutes in the microwave on high; stir; then microwave for 2 minutes more; be careful not to burn)

–chicken broth (non-fat, low sodium)

1 – Place the chicken in a covered baking dish with a little white wine.  Drop minced garlic on top of each piece, and then spread across the pieces.  Season with salt, pepper, fresh rosemary, and olive oil.  Set aside.

2 – Finely chop 4 baby bella mushrooms and one-fourth large onion.  Place in a covered baking dish with a little chicken broth.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 3 minutes.  Add 1 cup of cornbread stuffing, and 1 handful each of dried cranberries and toasted walnuts.  Add a little more olive oil and a little more chicken broth.  Stir well.  Set aside.

3 – Microwave the chicken for 8 minutes on high.  Then microwave the stuffing for 2 minutes on high.

4 – Serve the chicken hot, atop the cornbread stuffing.

–chicken and stuffing inspired by Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

ONE – DISH SPICY OREGANO COD WITH POTATOES – ONION – TOMATOES – CAPERS – BLACK OLIVES – MINCED GARLIC IN WHITE WINE SAUCE

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–cayenne pepper

–oregano (fresh if possible)

–potatoes (red, sliced, 2 medium, sliced)

–tomatoes (vine-ripened if possible, 2 medium, chopped)

–onion (one-half, medium)

–capers (about 12)

–black olives (1 small can, drained)

–garlic (minced, 1 heaping tablespoon)

–white wine

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Slice 2 medium-size potatoes, and place in a covered baking dish with a little white wine.  Chop one-half medium onion, and place in the dish.  Season with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 10 minutes.

2 – Chop 2 medium tomatoes.  Season with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and oregano.  Place in the baking with the potatoes and onion.   Add 1 heaping tablespoon of minced garlic.  Stir.  Microwave on high for 5 minutes.

3 – Place the cod in the sauce.  Season with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, and olive oil.  Sprinkle about 12 capers on top.  Drain a can of black olives, and also sprinkle on top.  Microwave on high for 6 minutes; then microwave on 50 percent power for 6 minutes.

4 – Serve the cod and sauce hot, as a one-dish dinner.

–cod adapted from Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way

MARINATED COD WITH HONEY – APPLE JUICE – MINCED GARLIC – CAYENNE – LEMON ACCOMPANIED BY SALSA OF PEACH – AVOCADO – GREEN ONION – BANANA PEPPER – CILANTRO – LIME ATOP QUINOA

Note:  For best results, marinate the cod for 1 to 3 hours in the refrigerator.

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

The marinade:

–honey (bottled)

–apple juice (organic, bottled)

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–cayenne pepper (bottled)

–lemon juice (bottled)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

Salsa:

–peach (1, fresh, chopped)

–avocado (1, diced)

–green onion (2 stalks, chopped)

–banana peppers (bottled; diced)

–cilantro (fresh, 1 handful, chopped; or parsley, fresh, 1 handful, chopped)

–lime juice (bottled)

1 – Place 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 cup apple juice, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 2 squirts of lemon juice in a mixing bowl large enough for the cod.  Season with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and olive oil.  Submerge the cod.  Place, covered, in the refrigerator for 1 to 3 hours.

2 – Place 1 chopped fresh peach, 1 diced avocado, 2 chopped stalks of green onion, 12 chopped banana pepper rings, 1 chopped handful of cilantro (or parsley), and 2 spirts of lime juice in a small mixing bowl.  Season with salt and pepper.  Fold ingredients gently.  Keep refrigerated until time for dinner.

3 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish.  Cover with the marinade.  Microwave on high for 8 and one-half minutes.  Cod is done when it begins to break apart.

4 – Serve the cod and sauce hot, salsa on the side, atop quinoa (recipe, see the search box on this blog).

–fish (originally swordfish) and salsa adapted from Juli at the blog, paliOMG.  Check her out; she has some great recipes plus lots more, too; cookbooks available.

SPICY HERB COD WITH SAUCE OF FRESH BLUEBERRIES – LIGHT BROWN SUGAR – LEMON JUICE – BALSAMIC VINEGAR ATOP JASMINE RICE

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–Mrs. Dash original (bottled)

–cayenne pepper (bottled)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

–blueberries (fresh, 1 cup)

–light brown sugar (packaged)

–lemon juice (bottled)

–balsamic vinegar (bottled)

–jasmine rice (packaged)

1 – Place 1 cup of fresh blueberries and one-fourth cup of water in a covered baking dish.  Add 2 heaping tablespoons of brown sugar.  Stir.  Microwave on high for 3 minutes.  When finished, place the cod in the sauce.  Drench in both lemon juice and balsamic vinegar.  Season with salt, pepper, Mrs. Dash, cayenne pepper, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 6 minutes; then microwave on 50 percent power for 4 minutes.

2 – Serve the cod and sauce hot, atop jasmine rice (1 cup rice and 2 cups water microwaved for 5 minutes on high; then 10 minutes on 50 percent power).

–cod and sauce adapted from the web sites of both Giant Eagle and Group Recipes.

CILANTRO SALMON WITH PEACH & PEAR SLICES IN HONEY & TERIYAKI MARINADE

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–cilantro (fresh, chopped; or parsley, fresh, chopped)

–mixed fruit (in a jar)

–honey

–teriyaki marinade (bottled)

–pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish with a little teriyaki marinade.  Season with pepper.  Drizzle honey on top.  Place several peach and pear slices, ready to serve from a jar, around the salmon, along with some of the juice from the fruit.  Sprinkle chopped cilantro (or parsley) on top.  Finish with a few drops of olive oil.

2 – Microwave on high for 7 and one-half minutes.

–salmon inspired by 20 Savory Salmon Recipes.

GINGER COD WITH ORANGE SLICES – LEMON SLICES – SWEET ONION IN ORANGE MARMALADE – TERIYAKI SAUCE ATOP JASMINE RICE

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–orange (fresh, peeled and separated)

–lemon (fresh, sliced)

–onion (sweet, one-half, medium)

–orange marmalade (one-half jar, sweet)

–teriyaki marinade and sauce (bottled)

–jasmine rice (packaged)

–ginger (bottled

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place 1 cup of jasmine rice in a covered baking dish.  Add 2 cups of water.  Stir.  Microwave on high for 5 minutes; then microwave on 50 percent power for 10 minutes.  When finished, keep covered to preserve warmth.

2 – In a small mixing bowl, place one-half jar of sweet orange marmalade.  Add one-third cup of teriyaki sauce to the bowl.  Stir well.  Place in a covered baking dish.

3 – Slice one-half sweet onion, and add to the marmalade/teriyaki sauce.  Peel and separate 1 orange; then cut each section into two pieces.  Add the orange to the sauce.  Stir.  Microwave on high for 5 minutes.  When finished, place the cod in the sauce.  Season with salt, pepper, ginger, and olive oil.  Sprinkle lightly with breadcrumbs.  With a very sharp knife, slice a lemon.  Place the lemon slices atop the cod.  Microwave on high for 6 minutes; then microwave on 50 percent power for 10 minutes.

4 – Serve the ginger cod hot, with the sauce/orange/lemon/onion, atop jasmine rice.

–cod inspired by the food.com web site.

A Simple Dinner: SMOKED SALMON NATURALLY WITH CHILLED SALAD OF AVOCADO – FRESH BASIL TOMATO – FETA IN BALSAMIC & EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL DRESSING

For 2:

–smoked salmon (packaged, ready-prepared)

–avocado (1, sliced)

–tomato (fresh, medium, sliced)

–feta cheese

–balsamic vinegar (bottled)

–extra virgin olive oil

–basil (fresh if possible)

–salt and pepper

1 – Slice the smoked salmon into two pieces.  That’s all to do!

2 – Cut apart an avocado and discard the pit.  Slice in horizontal strips, and place on a serving plate.  Slice a medium fresh tomato, and add to the plate.  Season with salt, pepper, and basil.  Sprinkle feta cheese over the avocado and tomato.  Season with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil.

3 – Serve the smoked salmon with the salad as a side.

–menu and salad original.

CHICKEN WITH ROSEMARY & MINCED GARLIC IN WHITE WINE SAUCE & HOMEMADE DRESSING OF HERBS – DRIED CRANBERRIES – TOASTED WALNUTS – CHOPPED MUSHROOMS – MARJORAM – PARMESAN – SWEET ONION IN CHICKEN BROTH

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–rosemary (1 handful, fresh if possible)

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–white wine

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

–herb dressing (I used Pepperidge Farm herb cornbread stuffing)

–dried cranberries (packaged)

–toasted walnuts (6 halves, finely diced)

–mushrooms (2 or 3 baby bellas, chopped)

–marjoram (bottled)

–Parmesan cheese (shredded)

–sweet onion (one-fourth large onion, finely diced)

–chicken broth (non-fat, low sodium)

1 – Place 1 and one-half cups of ready-prepared herb dressing (stuffing) in a covered baking dish.  Add 1 handful of dried cranberries, a half dozen finely diced toasted walnut halves, 2 or 3 chopped baby bella mushrooms, and one-fourth large chopped sweet onion.  Season with salt, pepper, marjoram, and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese.  Stir well.  Add a little chicken broth.  Microwave on high for 5 minutes.  When finished, keep covered to preserve warmth.

2 – Place the chicken in a covered baking dish with a little white wine.  Season with salt, pepper, minced garlic (spread over the top), rosemary (fresh if possible), and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes.  When finished, check a center piece of doneness.  If still pink, microwave additionally for 1 minute.

3 – Serve the chicken hot, atop the dressing.

–chicken and dressing adapted from Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

PARSLEYED LEMON COD SPRINKLED WITH BREADCRUMBS IN CLAM JUICE AND ACCOMPANIED BY COLD SPICY & SMOOTH PEPPER SAUCE WITH RED BELL PEPPER – BANANA PEPPER – FRESH TOMATO – SWEET ONION – SRIRACHA – MINCED GARLIC

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–parsley (fresh, chopped, 1 handful)

–lemon juice (bottled)

–breadcrumbs (boxed, plain)

–red bell pepper (one-half, chopped)

–banana peppers (bottled, about a dozen rings)

–tomato (fresh, medium, chopped)

–onion (sweet, one-fourth, chopped, medium)

–sriracha sauce (1 teaspoon)

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Chop one-half red bell pepper, 1 fresh tomato, one-fourth medium sweet onion, and add to a food processor.  Add 12 rings of banana peppers, 1 teaspoon of sriracha sauce, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic.  Season with salt, pepper, and a few drop of olive oil.  Pulse until smooth.  Set aside.

2 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish with a little clam juice.  Drench in lemon juice.  Season with salt, pepper, olive oil, and a sprinkling of plain breadcrumbs.  Finish with chopped parsley.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes.

3 – Serve the cod hot, with the pepper sauce on the side.

–sauce adapted from Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

BAKED CATFISH DIPPED IN EGG – MILK – SHREDDED PARMESAN – FLOUR AND SEASONED WITH PAPRIKA & OLIVE OIL

For 4:

–catfish (2 fillets, small)

–egg

–milk (almond or soy for lactose – free; or dairy)

–Parmesan (shredded, packaged, half a package)

–flour

–paprika

–olive oil

–salt and pepper

1 – Crack an egg in a small bowl and add a little milk.  Season with salt and pepper, and then stir briskly.  Place a little flour and half a package of shredded Parmesan cheese on a plate.  Stir the flour and cheese together.  Dip the catfish, one at a time, in the egg/milk, and then roll in the flour/cheese.  Coat well.  Then place in covered baking dish.  Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 7 minutes.

2 – Serve the catfish hot.

–catfish adapted from the food.com web site.

CHICKEN TENDERLOINS SPRINKLED WITH GARLIC – HERB BREADCRUMBS & SERVED WITH A SIDE OF COLD & SMOOTH NUT SAUCE WITH TOASTED WALNUTS – CILANTRO – LEMON – MINCED GARLIC – EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–garlic – herb breadcrumbs (boxed)

–toasted walnuts (6 to 8 halves, shelled; microwave on high 1 plate of walnuts for 2 minutes; stir; then microwave for 2 minutes more)

–cilantro (or parsley, 1 handful, fresh)

–lemon juice (bottled)

–minced garlic (1 teaspoon)

–extra virgin olive oil

1 – Place the chicken in a covered baking dish with a little water.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Lightly sprinkle with garlic – herb breadcrumbs.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes.  When finished, check an inside tenderloin for doneness.  If not done, continue microwaving on high for 1 minute more.

2 – In a food processor, place 6 to 8 toasted walnut halves, 1 handful of chopped cilantro (or parsley), 1 squirt of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and a few drops of extra virgin olive oil.  Pulse until smooth.  Add a small amount of water to reach desired consistency, and then pulse again.

3 – Serve the chicken hot, with the cold sauce on the side.

–sauce adapted from Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

SALMON WITH TOPPING OF MILD HORSERADISH – HERB CORNBREAD STUFFING – OLIVE OIL IN LEMON & CLAM JUICE SAUCE

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–horseradish (bottled, mild)

–herb cornbread stuffing (I used Pepperidge Farm herb cornbread)

–olive oil

–salt and pepper

–lemon juice (bottled)

–clam juice (bottled)

1 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish with a little clam juice.  Drench in lemon juice.  Season with salt and pepper.  Set aside.

2 – In a small mixing bowl, place 3 tablespoons of mild horseradish sauce and 2 tablespoons of herb stuffing.  Add a few drops of olive oil.  Stir very well.  Spread the topping on the salmon.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes (more because of the topping).

3 – Serve the salmon hot.

–salmon adapted from 20 Savory Salmon Recipes.

A Simple Dinner: SPICY & GARLICKY COD WITH SRIRACHA – MINCED GARLIC – LEMON SPRINKLED WITH GARLIC – HERB BREADCRUMBS & IN CLAM JUICE SAUCE

Note:  My husband said this looked too pretty to eat.

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–sriracha sauce (hot chili sauce, bottled)

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–lemon juice

–garlic – herb breadcrumbs (boxed)

–clam juice (bottled)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish with a little clam juice.  Drench the cod in lemon juice.  Season with salt and pepper.  Spread minced garlic on top.  Place a few ribbons of sriracha sauce on top of the cod.  Season with olive oil.  Sprinkle garlic – herb breadcrumbs lightly on top.

2 – Microwave on high for 9 minutes.  (Cod is done when it begins to break apart.)

3 – Serve the cod hot.

–recipe original.

A Simple Dinner: HERB CHICKEN WITH GREEN ONIONS & PARSLEY IN WHITE WINE SAUCE

Note:  The secret for this simple dinner is Mrs. Dash.   My husband gave me raves.

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–Mrs. Dash original (bottled)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

–green onions (2 stalks, chopped)

–parsley (1 handful, chopped)

–white wine

1 – Place the chicken in a covered baking dish with a little white wine.  Season with salt, pepper, Mrs. Dash original, and olive oil.  Chop 2 stalks of green onions and place on top.  Chop 1 handful of fresh parsley and also place on top.  Microwave on high for 8 and one-half minutes.  When finished, cut into one of the center chicken pieces to test doneness.  If not cooked, microwave for 1 minute more.

2 – Serve the chicken hot.

–recipe original.

A Simple Dinner: SALMON WITH LEMON – HONEY – GINGER – MINCED GARLIC IN TERIYAKI MARINADE

Note:  This is delicious.

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–lemon juice

–honey

–ginger

–minced garlic

–teriyaki marinade

–pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish.  Drench in lemon juice.  Pour a generous amount of teriyaki marinade over the salmon.  Sprinkle with ginger and pepper.  Spread minced garlic over the top.  Then drizzle honey and olive oil to finish.  Microwave for 7 and one-half minutes on high.

2 – Serve the salmon hot.

–salmon adapted from 20 Savory Salmon Recipes.

CRAB CAKES WITH MINCED GARLIC & TOPPED BY CILANTRO & LEMON SLICES IN SHERRY SAUCE

For 4:

–crab cakes (ready-prepared, 4)

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–cilantro (or parsley, fresh)

–lemon (fresh, sliced)

–sherry (cooking sherry is fine)

1 – Place the crab cakes in a covered baking dish, not touching each other.  Drench in sherry, with a little extra for sauce.  Spread minced garlic atop each crab cake.  With a very sharp knife, slice a lemon.  Place a slice atop each crab cake.  Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley atop the crab cakes.  Finish with a few drops of olive oil.  Microwave on high for 4 minutes, enough time to allow the lemon slices to release their juices.

2 – Serve the crab cakes hot.

–crab cakes inspired by Edward Giobbi’s Eat Right, Eat Well—the Italian Way.

SWEET & SPICY SALMON WITH SRIRACHA – MAYO – BROWN SUGAR – PAPRIKA – CHIVES – LEMON – CELERY – GREEN ONION IN CLAM JUICE SAUCE

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–sriracha sauce (chili hot sauce, 2 tablespoons)

–mayonnaise (2 tablespoons)

–brown sugar (2 tablespoons)

–paprika, chives (bottled)

–lemon juice

–celery (2 chopped stalks)

–green onions (2 chopped stalks)

–clam juice (or fish broth, bottled)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place 2 chopped stalks of celery in a covered baking dish with a little clam juice.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 3 minutes.  When finished, place the salmon in the sauce.  Set aside.

2 – In a small mixing bowl, place 2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.  Stir well.  Season with salt, pepper, olive oil, paprika, and lemon juice.  Stir again.  Pour the sauce atop the salmon.  Place 2 chopped stalks of green onion to finish, on top of the salmon.

3 – Microwave on high for 7 and one-half minutes.

4 – Serve the salmon and sauce hot, atop quinoa, brown or white rice, pasta or couscous.

–salmon adapted from 20 Savory Salmon Recipes.

A Simple Dinner: COD WITH SAUCE OF FRESH STRAWBERRIES – STRAWBERRY PRESERVES – VANILLA CREAMER ATOP JASMINE RICE

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–strawberries (fresh, 5 or 6, chopped fine)

–strawberry preserves (one-half jar)

–vanilla almond creamer (or dairy; for dairy, add 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring)

–salt and pepper

–jasmine rice

–olive oil

1 – Place one-half jar of strawberry preserves in a small mixing bowl.  Add 5 or 6 finely chopped strawberries, a small amount of vanilla almond creamer, and a few drops of olive oil.  Stir well.  Add more creamer for better consistency, if desired.

2 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish.  Season with salt and pepper.  Pour the sauce on top of the cod.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes.  (Cod is done when it begins to break apart.)

3 – Serve the cod and sauce hot, atop jasmine rice (1 cup rice and 1 and three-fourth’s cup water; microwave, covered, on high for 5 minutes; then on 50 percent power for 10 minutes).

–recipe original.

SALMON WITH ORANGE MARMALADE – SOY SAUCE – GINGER – MINCED GARLIC – BALSAMIC VINEGAR TOPPED WITH SESAME SEEDS & GREEN ONIONS

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–orange marmalade

–soy sauce

–ginger

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–balsamic vinegar

–sesame seeds

–green onions (2 stalks, chopped)

–pepper

–olive oil

1 – In a mixing bowl, place one-half jar of orange marmalade, one-fourth cup of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and a few drops of both balsamic vinegar and olive oil.  Season with ginger and pepper.  Stir very well.

2 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish.  Pour the sauce over the salmon.  Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.  Finish with 2 chopped stalks of green onions.

3 – Microwave the salmon for 7 and one-half minutes on high.

4 – Serve the salmon hot, atop white or brown rice, or quinoa (recipes, see the search box on this blog).

–salmon adapted from 20 Savory Salmon Recipes.

CHICKEN WITH SAUCE OF BLUEBERRIES – MAPLE SYRUP – BALSAMIC VINEGAR – ONION – ROSEMARY – BUTTER – OLIVE OIL ATOP ROSEMARY – OLIVE OIL QUINOA

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–blueberries (fresh, 1 cup)

–maple syrup (one-fourth cup)

–balsamic vinegar (one-fourth cup)

–onion powder (bottled)

–rosemary (fresh if possible)

–Promise margarine (heart-healthy)

–olive oil

–salt and pepper

–rosemary – olive oil quinoa (boxed)

1 – Place 1 cup of fresh blueberries in a covered baking dish.  Add one-fourth cup of both maple syrup and balsamic vinegar.  Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and rosemary.  Add 1 tablespoon of Promise margarine and a few drops of olive oil.  Microwave on high for 3 minutes. 

2 – Add the chicken to the sauce.  Season with salt, pepper, rosemary, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes.

3 – Serve the chicken hot, atop rosemary – olive oil quinoa (6 minutes on high; 9 minutes on 50 percent power).

–blueberry sauce adapted from Driscoll’s berries web site.

COD IN LEMON & WHITE WINE SAUCE WITH A SIDE OF CHILLED STRAWBERRY SALSA SEASONED WITH HONEY – LIME – BALSAMIC VINEGAR – MINT – BLACK PEPPER

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–lemon juice (bottled)

–white wine

–strawberries (fresh, 5 or 6, chopped)

–honey

–lime juice

–balsamic vinegar

–mint (fresh if possible)

–black pepper

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Prepare the salsa early so that the flavors will blend.  Chop 5 or 6 strawberries, and place in a small mixing bowl.  Add 1 tablespoon each of honey, lime juice, and balsamic vinegar.  Season, to taste, with mint and black pepper.  Stir gently.  Chill in the refrigerator until time for dinner.

2 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish.  Drench in lemon juice.  Add a small amount of white wine.  Then season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 9 minutes.  (Cod is done when it starts to break apart.)

3 – Serve the cod and sauce hot, with the strawberry salsa on the side.

–strawberry salsa adapted from the “closet cooking” web site.

A Simple Dinner: CHICKEN WRAPPED IN CORNFLAKE CRUMBS & TOPPED WITH LEMON SLICES

Note:  This entree is a variation on oven fried chicken.  The corn flake crumbs absorb some of the lemon juice, enhancing the taste of lemon but retaining corn flake crunchiness. 

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–lemon (fresh)

–cornflakes (or corn chex, 1 cup, crushed)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the chicken in a plastic bag.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  In a second plastic bag, place a generous amount of cornflakes or corn chex.  Using an ice cream scoop, crush the corn against the kitchen counter.  Then pour in the plastic bag with the chicken.  Shake well.  Place in a covered baking dish with a very little water (just to steam).

2 – With a very sharp knife, slice a lemon.  Place the slices atop the chicken.

3 – Microwave the chicken on high for 8 minutes.  Test a center piece of chicken to be sure that it is done.  If not, return to the microwave for 1 minute more.

4 – Serve the chicken hot, with a lemon slice atop each piece.

–recipe original.

COD GLAZED WITH CHERRY PRESERVES & BALSAMIC VINEGAR AND TOPPED WITH SLICED ALMONDS & GREEN ONIONS

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–cherry preserves (in a jar)

–balsamic vinegar (bottled)

–sliced almonds (one-fourth small package)

–green onions (3 stalks, chopped)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish.  Season with salt and pepper.  In a small mixing bowl, place 3 heaping tablespoons of cherry preserves.  Slowly add one-third cup of balsamic vinegar, stirring briskly.  Then pour the sauce over the cod.

2 – Sprinkle one-fourth small package of sliced almonds on top of the cod.  Finish with 3 chopped stalks of green onions.  Add a few drops of olive oil.

3 – Microwave on high for 8 minutes.  Cod is done when it begins to break apart.

4 – Serve the cod and sauce hot, atop brown or white rice (preferably jasmine).

–cod adapted from Vital Choice web site.

BAKED CHICKEN LIGHTLY SPRINKLED WITH BREADCRUMBS ON A BED OF CARROTS – GREEN ONIONS – MUSHROOMS IN BROTH & WHITE WINE SAUCE ATOP JASMINE RICE

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–breadcrumbs (plain, boxed)

–carrots (2, fresh, sliced on the diagonal)

–green onions (3 stalks, chopped in large pieces)

–mushrooms (baby bellas, 5 or 6, sliced large)

–chicken broth (non-fat, low sodium)

–white wine

–jasmine rice (boxed)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place 1 cup of jasmine rice in a covered baking dish.  Add 1 and three-fourth’s cup of water.  Stir.  Microwave on high for 5 minutes; the microwave on 50 percent power for 10 minutes.  When finished, keep covered to preserve warmth.  (Do not add salt or olive oil.)

2 – Slice 2 carrots on the diagonal, and place in a covered  baking dish with a little chicken broth and a little white wine.  Add 3 chopped green onions and 5 or 6 sliced baby bella mushrooms.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 3 minutes, longer if you have a large baking dish.  When finished, add the chicken, spacing the pieces apart from each other.  Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Sprinkle very lightly with plain breadcrumbs.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes.

3 – Serve the chicken and vegetables hot, atop the jasmine rice.

–recipe original.

ONE – DISH CHICKEN BOWTIE PASTA WITH PARMESAN – PINE NUTS – CREAMER – MARINARA SAUCE

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–bowtie pasta (farfalle, 2 cups dry)

–Parmesan (shredded)

–pine nuts (packaged, one-half small)

–creamer (soy or almond for lactose – free; or dairy)

–marinara sauce (I used Newman’s Own)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Place 2 cups of bowtie pasta in an uncovered baking dish, with water to cover plus 1 inch above.  Microwave on high for 6 minutes; then microwave for 8 minutes on 50 percent power.  When finished, keep covered to preserve warmth.  Do not drain yet.  Set aside.

2 – Place one-half jar of marinara sauce in a covered baking dish.  Add one-third cup of soy or almond creamer, 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, one-half small package of pine nuts, and a few drops of olive oil.  Stir well.  Microwave on high for 3 minutes.  When finished, keep covered to preserve warmth.

3 – Place the chicken in a fresh, covered baking dish with a little water.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Microwave on high for 8 minutes.  When finished, cut into bite-sized pieces.  Add to the seasoned marinara sauce.  Stir well.

4 – Serve the chicken pasta hot.

–recipe original.

A Simple Dinner: CREAMY SALMON WITH PARMESAN – DIJON – MINCED GARLIC – LEMON – MAYO IN CLAM JUICE

For 4:

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–Parmesan cheese (shredded)

–Dijon mustard

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–lemon juice (bottled)

–mayonnaise

–salt and pepper

–clam juice

1 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish with a little clam juice.  Season with salt and pepper.  In a small mixing cup, place one-fourth cup of mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 3 tablespoons of shredded Parmesan cheese, a squirt of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic.  Stir well.  Pour over the salmon.  Microwave for 7 and one-half minutes on high.

2 – Serve the salmon hot, atop brown or white rice.

–salmon adapted from 20 Savory Salmon Recipes.

MAPLE – GLAZED CHICKEN TENDERS WITH SOY SAUCE – LEMON JUICE – MINCED GARLIC – GINGER – BLACK PEPPER – OLIVE OIL

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–maple syrup

–soy sauce

–lemon juice

–minced garlic (in a jar)

–ginger (bottled)

–olive oil

–black pepper

1 – Place the chicken in a plastic bag.  Add to the bag, 3 tablespoons or maple syrup, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 squirt of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, a sprinkling of black pepper, and a few drops of olive oil.  Close the bag, and blend the flavors together.  Marinate between 2 and 24 hours. 

2 – Place the chicken in a covered baking dish with the marinade poured over the chicken.  Add a few more drops of olive oil.

3 – Microwave the chicken on high for 8 minutes.

4 – Serve the chicken hot.

–chicken adapted from the food.com web site.

BAKED COD & CRAB MEAT TOPPING OF MINCED CELERY – ONION POWDER – MAYO – BLACK PEPPER – GARLIC-HERB BREADCRUMBS – WORCESTERSHIRE AND SPRINKLED WITH PAPRIKA IN WHITE WINE SAUCE

For 4:

–cod (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–crab meat (one-half small can, drained)

–celery (1 stalk, finely chopped)

–onion powder

–mayonnaise

–black pepper

–garlic – herb breadcrumbs (boxed)

–Worcestershire sauce

–paprika

–olive oil

–white wine

1 – Place the cod in a covered baking dish with a little white wine.  Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Set aside.

2 – In a small mixing bowl, place one-half can of drained crab meat, a generous sprinkling of garlic – herb breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and a few drops of olive oil.  Season with black pepper and onion powder.  Finely chop 1 stalk of celery, and add to the mixing bowl.  Stir well.  Spread the crab meat topping on the cod.  Sprinkle with paprika.

3 – Microwave on high for 9 minutes.  Cod is done when it begins to break apart.

4 – Serve the cod with crab meat topping with couscous, pasta, white or brown rice, or quinoa.

–cod and crab meat topping adapted from Mr. Food Test Kitchen.

A Simple Dinner: SALMON WITH BROWN SUGAR – MUSTARD SAUCE

For 4:

–salmon (size of 4 decks of cards, 1 pound)

–brown sugar (one-third cup)

–Dijon mustard (3 tablespoons)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

–clam juice

1 – Place the salmon in a covered baking dish with a little clam juice.  Season with salt and pepper.  Set aside.

2 – Place one-third cup of brown sugar in a small mixing bowl.  Add 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard.  Stir well.  Add more of either ingredient if you are not satisfied with the consistency.  Add a few drops of olive oil, and stir well.  Pour over the salmon.

3 – Microwave for 7 and one-half minutes on high.

4 – Serve the salmon hot.

–adapted from 20 Savory Salmon Recipes.

PARSLEYED CHICKEN WITH MUSHROOMS & GREEN ONIONS IN SHERRY CREAM SAUCE

For 4:

–6 chicken tenderloins or breast strips

–parsley (fresh)

–mushrooms (baby bellas, 4 or 5, chopped)

–green onions (3 stalks, chopped)

–sherry (cooking sherry is fine)

–creamer (almond or soy for lactose – free; or dairy)

–salt and pepper

–olive oil

1 – Pour a little sherry and a little creamer in a covered baking dish.  Season lightly with olive oil.  Stir.  Microwave on high for 3 minutes.  When finished, stir the sauce, and then place the chicken in the sauce.  Season with salt and pepper.  Chop 4 or 5 baby bella mushrooms, 3 stalks of green onions, and 1 handful of parsley, and sprinkle atop the chicken.  Finish with a few drops of olive oil.

2 – Microwave on high for 3 minutes; then microwave on 50 percent power for 10 minutes.  (Sauce will bubble up unless cooked on 50 percent power.)

3 – Serve the chicken and sauce hot, atop rice or quinoa if desired.

–chicken adapted from Rene Verdon’s The White House Chef Cookbook (from the Kennedy administration)>