Sunday, 3 March 2013

Mango-Strawberry Coconut Smoothie


These are the perfect Sunday night study break!  Quick, easy and delicious.  Mangos are in season right now here in St. Kitts so they were the perfect addition to these smoothies.  Don't have fresh mangos?  You can try frozen or use fresh bananas instead.

A great way to use coconut milk in your smoothies without watering them down.
Freeze for at least 2 hours.

1-15 oz can of light coconut milk, frozen in ice cube tray
1 Large ripe mango, cubed (approx. 1 cup)
1 cup sliced frozen strawberries
2 Tbsp honey

Put all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth.  Serve and enjoy!
Serves: 2


Saturday, 2 March 2013

Southwestern Fiesta Chicken Skillet


This is a great dish that utilizes fresh vegetables and lean meats.  It's delicious while also low in sodium, fat and calories.  I can't wait to try the leftovers in a wrap tomorrow.

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 medium red pepper, seeds removed and diced
1 medium green pepper, seeds removed and diced
1 medium yellow pepper, seeds removed and diced
1 med. sweet yellow onion, sliced
1 med zucchini, quartered and sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 c. mild salsa
1/2 Tbsp. chili powder
1 lg. tomato, seeded and diced
1 - 8.75 oz can sweet corn, rinsed and drained
1 - 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained

Marinade Ingredients:

2 Tbsp. corn starch 
2 tsp. chili powder 
2 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 tsp. sugar
1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 c. warm water 

Directions: 

1. Combine marinade ingredients in a medium mixing bowl with wire whisk, add chicken.  Refrigerate and marinate for 2-4 hours. 

2. Spray a large skillet with non-stick cooking spray and pre-heat over medium heat.  Add peppers, onion, zucchini and cilantro.  Heat and stir for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are a little tender.  Remove from the skillet.

Fresh market vegetables ready to cook.

3. Add mostly drained chicken to the skillet and brown while stirring, until cooked throughout (8-9 minutes).  Place vegetables back into the skillet, stir.  Add salsa, chili powder, corn and black beans while stirring.  Simmer for 3-5 minutes, until heated throughout. 

Recipe serves 6.  Serving suggestions: Serve over wild brown rice or in a tortilla.  Top with sour cream, cheese and/or chives.