Thursday, March 19, 2009

A spin on Tacos


I'm always trying to think of creative ways for my kids to get their Omega-3s, aka fish, without them turning their nose up at it. Yes, they love their fish sticks, but mama and papa needed something a little bit healthier and more savory. I saw this recipe on the Better Homes and Garden website and decided to give it a go. It took VERY little preparation and it was done in 20 minutes, start to finish. Can't say my kids loved every bite, but I sure did and so did my husband and older kids. Maybe you'd like it too. . .

Fish tostadas with Chili Lime Cream

1 lb. fresh tilapia or cod fillets
1/2 tsp. chili powder
1 lime, halved
1/2 c. sour cream
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
8 6-inch tostada shells
2 cups shredded cabbage mix
1 avocado, peeled and sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes (I just used chopped on-the-vine tomatoes)
Bottled hot pepper sauce (optional, although this was a must for me and my hubby)

Directions: Preheat broiler. Sprinkle fish with 1/4 tsp chili powder and 1/4 tsp. salt. For chili-lime cream, in bowl squeeze 2 tsp. lime juice. Stir in sour cream, garlic powder and remaining chili powder; set aside. Cut remaining lime half in wedges for serving. Place fish in greased pan. Place shells on baking sheet on lowest rack. Broil fish 4 inches from heat 4-6 min. per 1/2 inch thickness, until fish flakes with a fork. Break into chunks. Serve tostadas with cabbage, chili-lime cream, avocados, tomatoes, lime and pepper sauce. I think you could also add cheese to the mix, don't you? VERY simple, tasty meal that includes all the 5 basic food groups!

Monday, March 9, 2009

Skillet Summer Pasta



Yes, I said SUMMER pasta, because I'm in denial about the snow that is dumping itself outside right now. AND, maybe, just maybe, if I start on the summer foods, I can WILL summer here faster.

I made this for my family the other night and I was pleased with the final product and the response from my family. I have to put a plug in for Sunflower Market. I get my produce here whenever I can and I feel like living healthy is finally affordable again. I hope you have one near you--their prices are unbelievable!

First I cooked about 8 oz. whole wheat fusilli (or any other curly pasta).

While this was boiling, I sauteed the following (you can add or subtract any amount according to your family's size):

1/2 onion
2-3 small zucchini
2-3 yellow summer squash
1 head broccoli florets
2-3 cloves garlic

When these were done, I put them in a bowl off to the side and I thought it needed some protein so I sauteed a package of firm tofu, until brown, in the same pan.

Drain noodles and add vegetable to the pan with the tofu. Add 2-3 chopped tomatoes and heat through. Add about 1 cup (or more if you want) of shredded cheese (I used mixed cheeses) until the whole meal looks nice and cheesy. Add salt and pepper to your liking and enjoy! Super easy, super fast and super delish!