Best Manual Pasta Maker

Marcato Atlas 180 Pasta Machine

As the wider version of the classic Marcato Atlas Pasta Machine, the Atlas 180 produces more pasta in less time. Uniting simplicity with versatility, it features a 9-numbered adjustable dial, so you can roll homemade pasta to your preferred thickness.8mm to 4mmat the touch of a button.

Using the machine was a breeze: I shaped my homemade pasta dough into a rectangle about 0.5-inches thick before feeding into the roller to form thin sheets. I then fed it through the cutters to shape the noodles. From start to finish, I had perfectly cut pasta in under five minutes!

The Marcato features two pasta cutters for making spaghetti and fettuccine. And you can purchase up to 12 additional attachments for other types of noodles, including pappardelle, linguine and capellini (talk about endless pasta-bilities!).

I especially liked that the Marcato’s roller is nearly 7-inches wide (which is wider than similar manual models on the market), which meant each crank of the handle generated more pasta in less time. I was also impressed by the sharp cutter blades, which resulted in perfectly cut noodles every time.

While this best pasta maker is a little pricier than other manual models on the market, its performance and time-saving features make it well worth the extra cost. Plus it was extremely fun and easy to usejust load the dough and crank the handle. Now you just need a pasta sauce and you’ll be on your way to an authentic Italian experience.

Pros

• Solid construction and performance
• 9 adjustable thickness level settings and 2 pasta cutters
• Wide roller/cutter allows for making more pasta more quickly
• Sharp blades produced clean cut noodles
• 12 additional cutters available for purchase for more pasta variations

Cons

• At the higher price range for manual models
• Requires about 2-inches of counter overhang for attaching clamp (which is pretty standard for these types of pasta makers)

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For the One Who Likes a Little Bit of Everything

Look What the Bunny Brought Me Basket

Put a hop in their step with the ultimate Easter basket from Gourmet Gift Baskets. This over-the-top Easter gift has a little something for everyone. Enjoy an array of Peeps, Tootsie Pops, Whoopee Cushions, cotton candy and slime. Plus, there’s a few elevated favorites, such as sea salt and cracked pepper popcorn, kettle corn and celestial sour gummies. A soft plush bunny sits on top of this massive treat pile for a fun reminder of the season.

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The post The Best Easter Basket Ideas for Kids appeared first on Taste of Home.

6. KFC

KFC’s mac and cheese side came in at the back of the pack in our taste test. Even before taking the first bite, we noticed that the noodles were simply swimming in an artificial-looking yellow sauce. While a lot of sauce isn’t necessarily a bad thing, this sauce tasted more buttery and mealy than decadent and cheesy. The elbow-shaped noodles were on the larger side and cooked a bit past al dente for our palate.

Since many diners opt for potatoes or a biscuit at KFC, we wondered if this side dish was just sitting under the heat lamp for too long. On a positive note, the mac was a budget-friendly $3.39.

Bottom Line: You’re better off with the homemade version from our collection of KFC copycat recipes.

The post Famous Fast-Food Mac and Cheese, Ranked Worst to Best appeared first on Taste of Home.

What is the Solo Stove S’mores Bowl?

Solo Stove partnered with TerraFlame to launch indoor firepits. The Solo Stove S’mores Bowl is a portable tabletop s’mores roaster fired by clean-burning, smoke-free gel fuel. It’s designed for indoor fires atop your kitchen table or gathering in the living room. However, it can also be used outdoors. The s’mores bowl makes the yummy concoction of chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers accessible anywhere.

As with all Solo Stove products, the design is impeccable and the product is easy to use. The bamboo lid doubles as a tray and storage solution. When not in use, display the mini Solo Stove on the table as a centerpiece.

To use the s’mores bowl, simply remove the bamboo lid, open a can of gel fuel, drop it in and light. The gel fuel burns clean minus smoke, soot and residue. Lighting and extinguishing are easy and safe. One canister of smokeless gel fuel provides three hours of flames.

I love a good bonfire, but I dread the smell that accompanies it. With this Solo Stove inside fire pit, I can delight in s’mores minus the smell of smoke and fire. And with gel fuel, there’s no mess!

Crafted from concrete and bamboo, the Solo Stove s’mores bowl is 5.13 inches tall, 8.13 inches wide and lightweight at 14 pounds. S’mores cook evenly, and the gel fuel is food-safe. Flames crackle, mimicking a real campfire and provide warmth.

Our Favorite Solo Stove Indoor Fire Bowls

The Solo Stove x Terraflame line includes additional smokeless tabletop fire bowlsall powered by gel fuel. The citronella gel fuel can also be used outdoors to keep bugs away. Solo Stove’s lifetime warranty seals the deal.

Senior Shopping Editor, Cher Checchio, also has and recommends the Cinder Tabletop Bowl for more indoor s’mores-making fun. It’s very similar to the s’mores bowl but with a more compact design.

One drawback, s’mores take longer to roast and the flame is less reliable when it’s windy outside.

Pros

• Used indoors and outdoors
• Smokeless fire without bonfire smell
• Lightweight and portable
• Works with smoke-free gel fuel and citronella fuel
• Flames crackle to mimic an outdoor campfire
• Lid doubles as a tray
• Backed by a lifetime warranty
• Aesthetic design
• Evenly cook smores
• Fire lights and extinguishes easily

Cons

• S’mores take longer to roast when it’s windy outside

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Solo Stove S'mores Bowl

The Solo Stove S'mores Bowl is a portable tabletop s'mores roaster and firepit suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

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Why I Love It

Like the Solo Stove pizza oven, the Solo Stove S’mores Bowl makes enjoying food so much easier. It’s ideal when you don’t have the time to build a bonfire but still want to enjoy s’mores. Or when winter arrives, consume s’mores in the warmth of your home. Also with smokeless gel fuel, there’s no odor. I despise the lingering fire smell that’s a struggle to wash out of my hair and clothing. Problem solved!

Share campfire memories indoors. I’ve used the Solo Stove S’mores Bowl for dinner parties, movie nights and as a sweet treat to brighten a lousy day. I can’t wait to try it on a s’mores board next.

Even Kris Jenner shared the s’more bowl on her Instagram storyshe loves it for roasting s’mores with her grandchildren. It’s a gift that allows the entire family to partake in special moments around the fire together.

Where to Buy the Solo Stove Smores Bowl

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Solo Stove S'mores Bowl

The Solo Stove S'mores Bowl runs on clean-burning, smoke-free gel fuel, yielding no odor and zero mess.

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The Solo Stove S’mores Bowl retails for between $60 to $100 and is available on Solo Stove, Terraflame, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Bespoke Post, Public Lands, Amazon, Uncommon Goods and Target.

A six-pack of pure gel fuel retails for $40, ringing up to $6.67 per can. A 12-pack costs $70, coming to $5.83 a can. A 24-pack is $120 for $5 per canthe best bang for your buck. With the 24-pack, if one can is $5 and burns for three hours, then one hour of flames costs $1.67. Pretty affordable if you ask me!

You can also purchase corresponding s’mores sticks and a s’mores deluxe cookbook. What are you waiting for? Get a Solo Stove S’mores Bowl today and enjoy limitless s’mores.

The post Roast Marshmallows Indoors With the Solo Stove S’mores Bowl appeared first on Taste of Home.

What is a bouquet garni?

Like the name implies, it’s a type of bouquet, but instead of being made of flowers, it’s made with herbs. Stalks of fresh or dried herbs are gathered together in a bundle and tied tightly with a piece of butcher’s twine, then dropped directly into a pot. You can also wrap the herbs in cheesecloth. Using cheesecloth is especially useful if the finished product will not be strained (like stock or broth is) and you’d like to make sure you don’t end up with flecks of fresh herbs in your finished soup.

Originating the Provence region of France, a traditional bouquet garni includes parsley, thyme and bay leaves. However, there are really no hard rules when it comes to making one; many recipes will call for additional herbs like rosemary, sage, tarragon or oregano. When left in a pot of simmering liquid, the bouquet garni adds delicious herbal notes, and can be easily removed with tongs or a slotted spoon.

How to Make a Bouquet Garni, Step by Step

There are two methods for making a bouquet garni: the string method and the cheesecloth method. The string method is the easiest, and is best if you’re only using fresh herbs. If you’d like to add additional aromatics to the mix (like crushed garlic or ginger), or if your herbs are small or especially delicate, use the cheesecloth method.

String Method

Step 1: Cut a piece of butcher’s twine at least six inches long. Lay it out on your counter or cutting board.

Step 2: Place your bundle of herbs in the center of the string and tie it up tightly with a double knot. Herbs shrink as they cook, so an extra-tight knot will ensure your bouquet garni doesn’t fall apart in the pot.

Cheesecloth Method

Step 1: Cut a square of cheesecloth big enough to bundle your herbs in.

Step 2: Place your herbs and aromatics in the center of the cheesecloth square, cutting them into smaller pieces if needed. Gather up the sides to make a satchel and tie tightly in a double knot with butcher’s twine.

Alternatives to a Bouquet Garni

• Fresh herbs: As long as you don’t mind flecks of green in your finished product, it’s fine to add fresh herbs that have been stripped from their stalks directly to the pot. Just don’t forget to fish out the bay leaves before serving!
• Dried herbs: Dried herbs will rehydrate while they simmer in hot liquid, making them ideal for soups, stocks and broths. However, they’re more potent than fresh herbs, so start with a slightly smaller quantity than your recipe calls for, then add more to taste after your dish has simmered for 10 minutes or so.
• Herb-infused oil: If you have a bottle of store-bought or homemade herb-infused oil, stir some into the pot when you’re sauteing your aromatics.

The post What Is a Bouquet Garni? appeared first on Taste of Home.

Here’s how to make cowboy chicken, plus a few easy variations.

Cowboy Chicken Ingredients

• Chicken: Plain boneless, skinless chicken breasts are our go-to weeknight dinner protein. This recipe would also taste great with boneless chicken thighs; they just may take a few extra minutes to cook.
• Black beans: Black beans have an earthy flavor that’s welcome in this dish, but you can use other types of beans instead: pinto, kidney, red beans or other types of dark, creamy beans.
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: A can of fire-roasted tomatoes dials up the heat, no extra hot sauce needed. If you don’t love spice, use plain diced tomatoes instead, or even chopped fresh tomatoes.
• Chopped green chiles: Green chiles add both spice and smokiness to this recipe. Go ahead and adjust the quantity of chiles to suit your tastes. Use dried chiles in a pinch, but they won’t have the silky texture and intense flavor.
• Corn: Corn is native to America, and cowboys would have absolutely stirred it into their bean pots! While the recipe calls for canned, you can sub in frozen corn (no need to defrost) or fresh corn sliced off the cob.

Cowboy Chicken Recipe

This recipe yields four servings. Plate up each portion with rice, cilantro and lime wedges.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 large onion, sliced lengthwise
• 1/2 large sweet red pepper, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 can (11 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles
• 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese

Directions

Step 1: Season the chicken

Pound the chicken breasts with a meat mallet until they’re even in thickness, about 1/2 inch. Place the chicken between sheets of plastic wrap for easy cleanup.

In a small bowl, stir together the paprika, chili powder, cumin and cayenne. Sprinkle half of the spice mixture over the chicken. Let sit for 15 minutes to let the spices flavor the chicken.

Step 2: Saute the chicken

In a large cast iron skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium heat until hot. Saute the chicken until lightly browned and no longer pink, about 4-6 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the vegetables

In same pan, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat. Saute the peppers and onion until tender. Add the garlic and cook an additional minute, taking care not to burn the garlic, which will make it bitter. Stir in the black beans, tomatoes, corn, green chiles and remaining spice mix and bring to a boil. Stir well and remove from heat.

Step 4: Broil

Preheat the broiler. Return the chicken to the pan along with the vegetable mix. Sprinkle cheese across the top.

Broil 1-2 inches from heat until the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve with white or brown rice, cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.

How to Store Cowboy Chicken

Leftover cowboy chicken should be kept in the refrigerator, tightly sealed in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to five days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

How to Freeze Cowboy Chicken

Like most casseroles, cowboy chicken freezes well. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will freeze well for up to three months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven. You can also bake directly from the freezer; this will simply take longer to heat through.

Cowboy Chicken Tips

How do you make cowboy chicken tender?

The trick to tender cowboy chicken? Don’t overcook the chicken breasts. When sauteing the spiced chicken, cook only until no longer pink. It will continue to cook through with the bean and tomato mix. As long as the chicken is well covered with the beans and tomatoes, it won’t overcook under the broiler.

Do you have to use boneless skinless chicken breasts for this recipe?

We like boneless skinless chicken breasts for the ease and speed of cooking. You can also use boneless chicken thighs. Using bone-on poultry, while slightly richer in flavor, will require more cooking time than this recipe provides. If you want to up the meaty flavor, add a few strips of bacon to the skillet, as in this classic cowboy spaghetti recipe.

What do you serve with cowboy chicken?

Cowboy chicken is easy to enjoy as a one-pan dinner, but plenty of dishes taste great on the side. Long grain rice or warm tortillas are filling and easy. Any fresh green salad would add welcome crunch, but this corn chip-topped salad will be a huge crowd pleaser. Other easy casserole sides include glazed carrots, bean dishes and fruit salads.

Finally, for dessert, why not rustle up a batch of Wyoming cowboy cookies?

Our Best Cowboy-Approved Fare

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Laura Bush's Cowboy CookiesThese hefty cookies have a bit of everythingoats, chocolate chips, coconut flakes and chopped pecans. No wonder the recipe won a Presidential Cookie Bake-Off! Emily Parulski, St. Francis, WisconsinGo to Recipe

Cowboy SpaghettiCowboy spaghetti starts on the stovetop and finishes in the oven, giving you plenty of hands-off time to prepare a salad, or a dessert for after dinner. If you don't have a cast-iron skillet, transfer the spaghetti mixture to a 13x9-in. baking dish before putting it in the oven. Kerry Whitaker, Carthage, Texas

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Southwest Barley & Lentil SoupMy family makes cowboy soup every new year for good luck. My mom has been making it since I was little. Over time, we've tweaked it so that all our family and friends love it. Kristen Heigl, Staten Island, New York

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Cowboy CaviarThis cowboy caviar is full of big flavors, with plenty of beans, corn, cilantro, garlic, red onion and lime juice. Serve with sturdy tortilla chips to get the most out of every bite. Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Southwestern CasseroleIve been making this mild family-pleasing southwest casserole for years. It tastes wonderful and fits nicely into our budget. Best of all, the recipe makes a second casserole to freeze and enjoy later. Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

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Cowboy Beef DipIn a foods class, a group of us developed this recipe for the North Dakota's annual Beef Bash. We won the contest!Jessica Klym, Killdeer, North Dakota

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Wyoming Cowboy CookiesThese cookies are very popular here in Wyoming. Mix up a batch for your crew and see why! Patsy Steenbock, Shoshoni, Wyoming

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Chicken Tortilla BakeMother frequently made this comforting chicken tortilla casserole when I was growing up. Our family would scrape the pan clean. Chicken, cheese and zippy green chiles are a mouthwatering mix. Jerri Moror, Rio Rancho, New Mexico

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The Pioneer Woman's LasagnaTravel back in time to make Ree Drummonds first-ever recipe! This lasagna keeps the ingredients simple and creates a creamy texture from the cottage cheese while adding some heat with hot breakfast sausage. Lisa Kaminski, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

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Cowboy Candy (Candied Jalapenos)If you love spicy food like we do, then these tasty candied jalapenosalso known as cowboy candyare for you! You can save the syrup to baste roasted chicken or grilled salmon, or mix it into salad dressings. Jars of this dynamite condiment make a great gift. Rita Ladany, Edison, New Jersey

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Cowboy CasseroleThis quick and creamy Tater Tot bake is great comfort food, especially on a cold night. Donna Donhauser, Remsen, New York

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Cornbread-Topped Chicken ChiliAfter seeing a recipe for a slow cooker chicken potpie, I knew I had to try it. I loved the idea of a no-fuss chicken casserole, but wanted a Southwestern taste. I added peppers, spices and a crust that is more like a corn bread topping.Nicole Filizetti, Grand Marais, Michigan

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Southwestern Chicken & Lima Bean StewI love to have my daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren over for this supper. They make me so happy with their compliments or just by going to fill up their bowls again. It's a good-for-you hit. Pam Corder, Monroe, Louisiana

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Muffin-Tin Tamale CakesWe needed snack inspiration beyond peanut butter and jelly. These muffin tamales have all of the flavor of tamales without the fuss. Pair with skewered fruit. Suzanne Clark, Phoenix, Arizona

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Cowboy PastaThis cowboy recipe combines ground beef, bacon, corn, tangy buttermilk and Monterey Jack cheese for an easy but hearty weeknight dinner. Add more chili powder or chopped jalapeno to give this delicious pasta dish a kick. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Black Bean Potato au GratinThe addition of black beans and vegetables adds hearty protein and fiber to this cowboy side dish. For a southwestern twist, add a handful or two of chopped cooked ham or chorizo sausage and replace the peas with 1 cup of frozen, thawed corn. Erin Chilcoat, Central Islip, New York

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Anaheim Chicken Tortilla SoupPut a little spice in your menu with my favorite Anaheim pepper recipe. The peppers, jalapenos and cayenne heat up this full-flavored tortilla soup. Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona

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Fiesta Breakfast BakeI get a kick out of making breakfast for a crowd when I have weekend guests, and my family also loves breakfast for dinner. I created this dish by combining my family's favorite southwestern flavors in an all-in-one-pan recipe.Whitney Gilbert, Smithville, Missouri

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Tex-Mex Cheesesteak SandwichesWe adore cheesesteak sandwiches and anything with southwestern flavor, so I combined the two. If you crave even more firepower, add chopped jalapenos. Joan Hallford, Fort Worth, Texas

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Frito PieFrito pie is legendary in the Southwest for being spicy, salty and cheesy fabulous. Heres my easy take on this crunchy classic. Jan Moon, Alamogordo, New Mexico

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Breaded Pork TenderloinMeat is a hard sell with my teenage daughter unless I make it look like a restaurant dish. Drizzle ranch dressing or barbecue sauce on top and it's a home run. Donna Carney, New Lexington, Ohio

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Cowboy StewI made up this cowboy stew in the early 1970s when I was down to very little food in the house. Because it's a combination of barbecue sauce, hamburger, hot dogs and beans, this one-skillet meal makes both children and adults happy. Val Rananawski, Millville, New Jersey

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The Pioneer Woman's Pecan PieWith a hint of crunch on top of a gooey filing, this Pioneer Woman pecan pie is a total classic. Like most of her Thanksgiving traditions, its easy to recreate at home. Molly Allen, Hood River, Oregon

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Confetti CornbreadMy grandmother Virginia always served Southwest cornbread. To honor her, I created a recipe that cuts down on the chopping but never skimps on flavor. Angie Price, Bradford, Tennessee

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Saucy Ranch Pork and PotatoesAwhile back, my sister Elyse shared a tasty ranch pork roast recipe. I tweaked it so I could use what was already in my pantry, and this dish was born. Kendra Adamson, Layton, Utah

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Chuck Wagon Tortilla StackI make this skillet specialty on those nights when I'm craving cowboy food. It's easy to cut and remove the pieces from the pan. Bernice Janowski, Stevens Point, Wisconsin

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White Bean Chicken ChiliMy sister shared this white bean chicken chili recipe with me. I usually double it and add one extra can of beans, then serve with cheddar biscuits or warmed tortillas. The jalapeno adds just enough heat to notice but not too much for my children. Kristine Bowles, Albuquerque, New Mexico

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Loaded Stuffed Potato PancakesWhen I make mashed potatoes, I always cook extra so I can prepare these over-the-top potato pancakes. Fill them with sour cream, ranch dressing or melted cheeseor all three. Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida

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Durango Potato CasseroleFor those who like it spicy, its easy to turn up the heat on these potatoes by adding more chili powder or jalapenos for extra kick.Pat Harmon, Baden, Pennsylvania

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Calico Cowboy BeansThis cowboy beans recipe is tradition when my girlfriends and I go up north for a girls' weekend. The husbands and kids are left at home, but the slow cooker comes with us! Julie Butsch, Hartland, Wisconsin

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Tex-Mex Sloppy JoesSloppy joes are a favorite of adults and kids. I deviated from the traditional recipe by adding a little Southwestern spiciness. Geraldine Saucier, Albuquerque, New Mexico

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Crispy Fried ChickenIf you've wanted to learn how to make crispy fried chicken, this is the recipe for you. Always a picnic favorite, this deep-fried chicken recipe is delicious either hot or cold. Kids call it my Kentucky Fried Chicken! Jeanne Schnitzler, Lima, Montana

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Southwestern GoulashI had some extra cilantro in the fridge and didn't want to throw it away. Instead, I came up with this delightful and filling family recipe. Everyone just loved it! Vikki Rebholz, West Chester, Ohio

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Buffalo Chicken DipThis is the best buffalo chicken dip recipe! Whenever I bring buffalo dip to a tailgate or potluck, everyone asks for the recipe. Peggy Foster, Florence, Kentucky

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Easy Potato RollsAfter I discovered this recipe, it became a mainstay for me. I make the dough ahead of time when company is coming, and I try to keep some in the refrigerator to bake for our ranch hands. Leftover mashed potatoes are almost sure to go into these rolls. Jeanette McKinney, Belleview, Missouri

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Enchilada Casser-Ole!My husband loves this casserole, so it never lasts too long in our house. Packed with black beans, cheese, tomatoes and southwestern flavor, it's an impressive-looking entree that's as simple as it is delicious. Marsha Wills, Homosassa, Florida

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Southwestern Sauteed CornMy mother-in-law came up with this corn skillet dish one night for dinner. Everyone who tries this cowboy recipe absolutely loves it! Chandy Ward, Aumsville, Oregon

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Cowboy QuesoThis spin on a classic cheese dip adds beans, tomatoes, ground meat and light beer for a cowboy-approved dish. Pair this queso with Tater Tots, corn chips or tortilla chips for an irresistible party snack. Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Looking for more? Try this Pioneer Womans tater tot casserole recipe.

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Cowboy SoupCowboy soup is a hearty main dish perfect for when the weather turns cold. Mix and match ingredients that you have on hand in your pantry. Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Also try this cowboy chicken has the spicy, smoky flavors of the Old West. It's a quick, one-skillet dinner for ranchersor a hungry family.

Southwest SteakLime juice tenderizes the steak while garlic, chili powder and red pepper flakes kick things up. My husband and I came up with this together as something lighter to make on the grill. Caroline Shively, Alexandria, Virginia

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Chorizo and Eggs RancheroFor a festive Mexican breakfast, we do chorizo and huevos rancheros. Add refried beans and cheddar, and serve everything in bowls made of tortillas. Paul Williams, Fort Mohave, Arizona

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Southwest Kielbasa BowlsHere's our at-home take on restaurant burrito bowls. We start with rice, kielbasa and black beans, then top 'em with salsa, red onion and cilantro. Use a spicier sausage if you want to crank up the heat. Abby Williamson, Dunedin, Florida

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Southwestern Bean DipJust by using different types of beans, you can make this dip as spicy as you like it. My family could eat this as a complete meal. Jeanne Shear, Sabetha, Kansas

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Jalapeno Ranch DipRanch dressing got its start on a real dude ranch in California. Punch up the western original with green salsa, green chiles, jalapenos and cilantro for more color and spice. Serve the dip along with your favorite wings to feed a crowd. Lindsay Duke, Goodrich, Texas

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Chili-Rubbed Steak & Bread SaladWe love skirt steak in our house. To make it a meal, I created a ranch-inspired bread salad with the best flavor combinations - creamy, tangy, sweet and fresh. Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut

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Spicy Cowboy ChiliToasting the peppers for this chili releases their earthy flavorsbut do wear gloves when handling dried peppers and seeds. Rachel Sprinkel, Hilo, Hawaii

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The Pioneer Woman's Million Dollar DipThis savory dip from Ree Drummond is worth every penny. She combines nuts, bacon and cheese to make this dip a go-to dish for any party. Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin

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School Cafeteria Cowboy BreadThis recipe for cowboy bread reminds us of all the good things about school lunch. The aroma of cinnamon streusel coffee cake baking in the oven is so nostalgic. Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin

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Ree Drummond's Cowboy QuicheDo cowboys really eat quiche? According to The Pioneer Woman, they doas long as its a cowboy quiche. Nancy Mock, Colchester, Vermont

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Copycat Trader Joes Cowboy BarkYou can combine rich dark chocolate, nuts, crispy pretzels, buttery toffee and Oreos to make copycat Trader Joes Cowboy Bark in no time. Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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The post How to Make One-Skillet Cowboy Chicken appeared first on Taste of Home.

Yeast Doughnuts

The majority of doughnuts start with the same base: a yeast dough. The dough rises and is usually cut into ring-shaped doughnuts, but can also be cut into whole rounds to make Hawaiian malasadas or maple bars. Yeast doughnuts have a second rise before they’re fried to produce a golden exterior with a fluffy center. They can be glazed, made into sugar doughnuts, covered in cinnamon sugar or dressed up with rainbow sprinkles.

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What is the Mediterranean diet?

The Mediterranean diet is plant-focused and rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and olive oil. Meat and dairy are included, but in smaller amounts. Seafood is the preferred source of animal protein.

The diet is based on the traditional eating habits of people who live in countries that surround the Mediterranean Sea, such as France, Spain, Italy and Greece. Scientists began studying their eating patterns because they had less chronic disease and a longer life expectancy than people in other parts of the worldsimilar to the study of the Blue Zone diet.

In the late 1990s, the health community developed a formal guide to following a Mediterranean diet. The pyramid they created highlighted aspects of the diet and lifestyle that were key to gaining the health benefits people in that region have experienced for generations.

Whole foods vs. processed foods

Whole foods are also central to the Mediterranean diet, as opposed to processed foods that are high in refined grains and added sugar. The evidence against processed foods continues to stack up, as highlighted at the 2023 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo. In a session about processed foods, Megan D. Baumler, PhD, RDN, explained that ultra-processed foods are associated with an increased risk of chronic health conditions. Since they are rapidly digested and absorbed, they can also reduce feelings of fullness and lead to overeating.

A study published by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine even showed that eating too many processed foods can cause premature death.

Adhering to the Mediterranean diet will increase your intake of fiber, antioxidants and healthy fats. Eating less processed foods and more produce will help decrease sodium and ensure youre consuming a wide variety of vitamins and minerals.

Is the Mediterranean diet good for you?

Following the Mediterranean diet means eating a variety of nutritious foods that work together to promote a healthy body. Its often said that the Mediterranean diet is more of a lifestyle than a diet, because theres no single food or nutrient in the diet that makes it healthy: Its the combination that works together.

The Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest eating patterns and is named the number one diet in U.S. News & World Report for best diets for 2023, says Rahaf Al Bochi, RDN, LD, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and owner of Olive Tree Nutrition. Research continues to reveal that the Mediterranean diet supports overall health and can help lower risk for heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and mortality. It has also been shown to boost mental health and support positive fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet

One of the most influential studies of the Mediterranean diet was conducted by a team at the University of Barcelona in 2013. The team followed more than 7,000 people whose heart health improved dramatically after following the diet. This study showed that the Mediterranean diet can:

• Improve blood pressure
• Maintain healthy cholesterol levels
• Reduce inflammation
• Improve digestion
• Support brain function
• Stabilize blood sugar
• Reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome

How to Follow the Mediterranean Diet

Here’s how to follow the Mediterranean diet and make it part of your daily routine.

Produce

Plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables make up the foundation of the Mediterranean diet. They are nutrient-dense and usually low in calories, providing the vitamins, minerals and fiber we need without adding a lot of calories. Fresh produce is always a great option, but frozen and canned can also be healthy choices. Read labels on packaged fruits and veggies to find those with little to no added sugar or salt.

How many servings of produce should you eat? Shoot for two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables each day. One serving is about 1/2 cup cooked, or 1 cup raw. Focus mainly on non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli and recipes with leafy greens, while including starchy vegetables like corn and potatoes in moderation. Try one of these bell pepper recipes to start, such as bell pepper tomato salad or grilled peppers and zucchini.

Legumes

Most legumes are rich in fiber, B vitamins, potassium and folate, and double as a good source of proteinwhich is important because the Mediterranean diet includes just a moderate amount of animal protein. Legumes include beans, peas, lentils, chickpeas and fava beans.

How many servings of legumes should you eat? Include three 1/2-cup servings of legumes per week. This might seem daunting if you arent used to eating them regularly, but consider starting with small changes like adding a handful to a salad, choosing a bean burger instead of a hamburger, or snacking on veggies and hummus (which is made with chickpeas). Look for new recipes to add to your regular rotation, like these healthy dinners that start with a can of beans or one of these chickpea recipes.

Grains

Whole grains like oats, bulgur, farro and brown rice are emphasized in the Mediterranean diet because they provide more fiber and nutrients than refined grains. They improve digestion and help stabilize blood sugar and maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

How many servings of whole grains should you eat? Incorporate three to six servings of whole grains per day, depending on your caloric needs. An example of a single serving is 1/2 cup cooked rice, one slice of bread or 1 cup dry cereal. Try switching to whole grain pasta, starting your day with oatmeal, and adding barley to soups and stews. Beyond that, our collection of whole grain dinner ideas provides plenty of ways to add them to your meal plan.

Nuts

Some of the healthiest nuts are almonds, walnuts and pistachios. They are an excellent source of healthy unsaturated fat, and also provide protein, fiber, magnesium and vitamin E. Look for low-salt or no-salt-added nuts.

How many servings of nuts should you eat? Try to get three 1/4-cup servings of nuts per week. Two tablespoons of nut butter is also a serving (so, yes, peanut butter counts!). If youre looking for more healthy ways to eat nuts, try swapping in a serving of nuts in place of processed snacks like potato chips or pretzels to satisfy your hunger.

Meat and Seafood

Seafood is the preferred animal protein in the Mediterranean diet, and for good reason. Consuming fish regularly can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol. If you eat red meat, do so in moderation, choosing lean cuts. If you eat poultry, opt for skinless poultry to limit saturated fat.

How many servings of meat and seafood should you eat? Aim for three servings of fish per week. Limit poultry to no more than one serving a day, and red meat to about one serving per week. One serving of meat or poultry is 3 ounces cooked, which is about the size of a deck of cards. Experiment with healthy fish recipes, especially salmon recipes, to increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids.

Dairy

While yogurt and cheese are common in the Mediterranean diet, dairy is typically consumed in moderation. It can be a good source of calcium, potassium, vitamin D and protein, but its also often high in saturated fat.

How many servings of dairy should you eat? One serving of dairy a day can mean just 1 cup milk, 1 cup yogurt or 1-1/2 ounces cheese. Choose low-fat or fat-free when you can. Include higher fat cheeses and cream as a flavor enhancer to other, healthier foods rather than as a main part of a meal or snack.

Fats

Olive oil is key in the Mediterranean diet. Its high in monounsaturated fat and antioxidants, which can help lower bad cholesterol and reduce inflammation.

How much fat should you consume? Remember that oil is also high in calories, so just one to four servings a day is optimal depending on your caloric needs. One serving is 1 tablespoonthat could be used for sauteing vegetables, dressing a salad or tossing with pasta. The difference between olive oil and extra virgin olive oil is that the latter is processed without heat, maintaining potentially beneficial phenols that are lost when processing olive oil. However, both are better choices than butter, shortening, and other oils that are higher in saturated fat like coconut oil. If you don’t usually stock your pantry with olive oil, start with one of these olive oil brands.

Wine

Wine is part of the traditional Mediterranean diet, especially red wine. While red wine was once associated with a possible reduced risk of heart disease, thats come into question after recent studies suggest that drinking any amount of alcohol could be detrimental to blood pressure and coronary artery disease risk. Its generally recommended that if you dont drink, dont start drinking. If you do drink, limit to one glass of wine per day for women, and two per day for men. One glass should be 3 to 4 ounces. After you pour a glass or two of your favorite type of red wine, put the rest of the bottle to use in one of these recipes with wine.

The Mediterranean Diet as a Lifestyle

The base of the Mediterranean food pyramid encourages being physically active and enjoying meals with other people instead of eating alone. These are core traditions of Mediterranean culture that contribute greatly to the health benefits of the diet. Lifestyle goes hand-in-hand with diet, so incremental changes in physical activity and shared meals is also incredibly important.

How to Start the Mediterranean Diet

Whenever you make big changes to your eating habits, its always smart to talk to your physician first to make sure the changes are right for you. Mastering new lifestyle changes can seem overwhelming at first, so start small and focus on one or two Mediterranean diet tips at a time, like these:

• Add a salad dressed with oil and vinegar before lunch or dinner.
• Instead of ending a meal with cookies, cake or ice cream, have sliced fruit with a dollop of vanilla yogurt for something sweet.
• Swap 1/4 cup almonds or walnuts for processed snacks twice a week.
• Start your day with oatmeal and berries instead of pancakes, eggs or bacon.
• If you saute in butter, switch to olive oil.
• Replace one serving of red meat with seafood once a week.
• Take a 10-minute walk after lunch or dinner every day.

If you prefer a more detailed plan, our seven-day Mediterranean meal plan gives you a weeks worth of recipes to get you started. Start by stocking your pantry with Mediterranean spices, like za’atar, saffronand sumac, and have fun experimenting with new dishes.

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