Archive for March, 2008

Power of Protein – Beef

Winning Recipes for Healthy Living


Beef helps fuel an active lifestyle by providing a powerhouse of protein. This is good news considering research by Donald Layman, Ph.D., professor of nutrition at the University of Illinois, that suggests many Americans may need more protein in their diets. Americans can feel good about loving beef because the protein in beef is a powerful nutrient that strengthens and sustains their bodies. Protein is essential to building muscle and helping enhance strength.
These recipes are all winners, literally – not only do they provide powerful protein, they were also chosen top finalists in the 2007 National Beef Cook-Off(r).

Lean Beef
-There are 29 cuts of beef that meet government guidelines for lean, including favorites such as sirloin, T-bone and flank steaks. It’s easy to “go lean with protein” and follow the U.S. Dietary Guidelines.
-Lean beef is a naturally rich source of nine essential nutrients, including high quality protein, iron, zinc and B vitamins, that people need for a healthy, active lifestyle. In fact, a 3-ounce serving of lean beef supplies more than one-half the amount of protein most people need each day.
Visit www.BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com for nutrition information, recipes and more.

Healthy Living
“I’ve always loved the taste of beef and that it provides protein,” says Christine Riccitelli from Incline Village, Nev., the 2007 National Beef Cook-Off grand prize winner.
Exercise is important to Christine. She enjoys daily hiking as well as swimming, pilates and lifting weights. Describing her recipe, she says: “I like to pair beef with colorful vegetables or fruits or wholesome grains. Plus, I can take a nice long hike while it cooks in the oven.” Her recipe, Nuevo Chipotle Beef in Butternut Squash Boats, is loaded with flavor, looks great and fits a healthy lifestyle.

March 20, 2008 Posted Under: All Recipes, Health & Wellness   Read More

Easy sweets for Easter baskets

If you’re like me, you’re ready to shout “welcome, spring!” Anticipation of sunny skies and warm weather invites us to celebrate this year’s March arrival of Easter.

Playing Easter bunny this year? Let me share some of my tips for making Easter special, festive and fun:
• Short on time? Look for Easter shapes of fresh refrigerated cookie dough in the dairy section; bake as directed-my favorite is the pink bunnies!-and arrange in an easy centerpiece for your Easter table. Or nestle a few cookies in Easter baskets along with a variety of fudge.
• Homemade treats are especially welcome in Easter baskets; try this sure-to-please fudge, in several flavor variations. It’s super-easy to make and I promise it will disappear.
• Bring the outdoors in with a few pots of early-blooming bulbs like narcissus, crocus and hyacinth.
• Place fuzzy pussy willow boughs in vase or container without water if you don’t want them to bloom.
• Kids love to color and decorate hard-cooked eggs. If weather allows and the grass is green, host an Easter egg hunt in the yard.

For more springtime-fresh, easy Easter decorating and baking ideas, visit http://VeryBestBaking.com.

March 1, 2008 Posted Under: All Recipes, Cooking Tips & Ideas   Read More