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Including breakfasts, soups, salads, entrees & desserts

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Midwest-Style Cobb Salad, p.6

cranberry-Walnut Muffins 1cupshreddedandcoredunpeeledapples 2⁄3 cupsugar 1⁄2 cupchoppedfreshcranberries 1⁄2 cupshreddedcarrot 1⁄2 cupchoppedwalnutsorpecans 11⁄4 cupsall-purposeflour 11⁄2 teaspoonsbakingpowder 1 teaspoonbakingsoda 1 teaspoongroundcinnamon 1teaspoongroundcoriander 1⁄4 teaspoonsalt 1egg,slightlybeaten 1⁄4 cupcookingoil1. Greasetentotwelve21⁄2-inchmuffincupsorlinethemwithpaperbakecups;setaside.Inalargemixingbowl,stirtogethertheapplesandsugar.Addcranberries,carrotsandnuts;stirtocombine.Setfruitmixtureaside.2. Inamediumbowl,mixflour,bakingpowder,bakingsoda,cinnamon,corianderandsalt.Stirflourmixtureintofruitmixture.Inasmallbowl,combineeggandoil.Addtofruitmixtureandstiruntiljustcombined.3. Spoonthemixtureintopreparedmuffincups,fillingeachaboutthree-quartersfull.Bakemuffinsina375°ovenfor22to25minutesoruntilgoldenandatoothpickinsertednearthecentercomesoutclean.Coolinpanfor5minutes.Removefrompan.Servewarmwithbutter,ifyoulike.Makes12muffins.Nutritionfactspermuffin:175cal.,8gfat,18mgchol.,211mgsodium,23gcarbo.,1gfiber,3gpro.

chocolatey Butter-pecan cinnamon Rolls 1cupsiftedpowderedsugar 1⁄3 cupwhippingcream 1cupcoarselychoppedpecans 1⁄2 cuppackedbrownsugar 1 tablespoongroundcinnamon 2teaspoonsall-purposeflour 214-to16-ounceloavesfrozensweet

rollorwhitebreaddough,thawed 1⁄4 cupbutter,melted 1⁄2 cupsemisweetchocolatepieces 1⁄2 cupchoppedpecans1. Fortopping:Inasmallbowl,stirtogetherpowderedsugarandwhippingcream.Pourintoanungreased13×9×2-inchbakingdish(3-quartrectangular).Sprinklethe1cupcoarselychoppedpecansevenlyovermixture;setaside.

Breakfas tWarm up your mornings with our recipes for tender muffins, gooey rolls, melt-in-your-mouth pancakes and a company-special Blueberry French Toast Casserole.

2. Forfilling:Inasmallbowl,stirtogetherbrownsugar,cinnamonandflour;setaside.3. Onalightlyflouredsurface,rolleachthawedloafofdoughintoa12×8-inchrectangle.(Ifdoughbecomesdifficulttorollout,letitrestafewminutes.)Brusheachrectanglewithmeltedbutter.Sprinkleeachwiththebrownsugarmixture,chocolatepiecesandthe1⁄2cupchoppedpecans.Rollupeachrectanglestartingfromalongside.Pinchseamstoseal.Cuteachrollcrosswiseintosixpieces.Arrangepieces,cutsidedown,intheprepareddish.Coverandletdoughriseinawarmplaceuntildoughnearlydoublesinsize(45to60minutes).Breaksurfacebubbleswithagreasedtoothpick.4. Placebakingdishonabakingsheet.Bakeina375°ovenfor40to45minutesoruntilsidesofrollsarebrownedandcenterrollsdonotappeardoughy(donotunderbake).Ifnecessary,coverthetopwithfoilforthelast15to20minutestopreventoverbrowning.

(Toppingwillturntoacaramelcolorastherollsbake.)Coolinbakingdishon

awirerackfor5minutes.Loosentheedges;invertrollsontoaservingplatter.Servewarm.Makes12rolls.Nutritionfactsperroll:443cal.,22gfat,58mgchol.,167mgsodium,60gcarbo.,3gfiber,7gpro.

Great for snacking, too!

midwestliving.com 2

Mile-High Buttermilk pancakes 2eggs,slightlybeaten 11⁄2 cupsbuttermilk 1 tablespoonbutter,melted 1cupall-purposeflour 11⁄2 teaspoonssugar 1 teaspoonbakingpowder 1⁄2 teaspoonbakingsoda1.Inamediumbowl,combineeggs,buttermilkandmeltedbutter.Inalargebowl,combinetheflour,sugar,bakingpowder,bakingsodaandadashsalt.Makeawellinthecenterofthedryingredients.Addthebuttermilkmixturetothedrymixtureandstiruntiljustcombined(donotovermix).2.Pourabout1⁄4cupbatterforeachpancakeontoahot,lightlygreasedgriddle.Cookovermediumheatabout2minutespersideoruntilgoldenbrown,turningtothesecondsidewhenpancakeshavebubblysurfacesandedgesareslightlydry.Servepancakeswarmwithadditionalbutterandsyrup.Makes10to12pancakes.Nutritionfactsperserving:85cal.,3gfat,47mgchol.,181mgsodium,11gcarbo.,0gfiber,4gpro.

Double-chocolate Scones 2cupsall-purposeflour 1⁄2 cupgranulatedsugar 1⁄3 cupunsweetenedEuropean-style

(Dutchprocessed)cocoapowderorunsweetenedcocoapowder

1 tablespoonbakingpowder 1⁄2 teaspoonsalt 1⁄3 cupunsaltedbutter 1beatenegg 1⁄2 cupwhippingcream 1teaspoonvanilla 1cupminiaturesemisweetchocolate

pieces 1⁄2 cupchoppedpecans,toasted(optional) Coarsesugar,optional1. Inalargebowl,stirtogetherflour,granulatedsugar,cocoapowder,bakingpowderandsalt.Usingapastryblender,cutinthebutteruntilmixtureresemblescoarsecrumbs.Makeawellinthecenterofdryingredients;setaside.2. Inasmallbowl,stirtogetheregg,whippingcreamandvanilla.Addeggmixturetoflourmixture.Addchocolatepiecesand,ifyoulike,pecans.Usingafork,stirjustuntilmoistened.3. Turndoughoutontoalightlyflouredsurface.Gentlykneaddoughbyfoldingandgentlypressing10to12strokesoruntilnearlysmooth.(Handledoughaslittleaspossibletokeepitlight.)Dividedoughinhalf.Lightlyrollorpateachdoughhalfintoa41⁄2-inchcircle.Cuteachroundintosixwedges.Placewedges1inchapartonaparchment-linedbakingsheetoranungreasedbakingsheet.Ifyoulike,brushsconeswithadditionalwhippingcreamandsprinklewithcoarsesugar.4. Bakethesconesina400°ovenfor12to14minutesoruntilbottomsarelightlybrowned.Removesconesfrombakingsheet.Coolonawirerackfor5minutes.Servewarm.Makes12scones.Nutritionfactsperscone:312cal.,15gfat,46mgchol.,207mgsodium,39gcarbo.,1gfiber,5gpro.

So light and fluffy!

For more breakfast and brunch ideas, visit midwestliving.com/25brunch.

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Blueberry French Toast casserole 12slicesdrywhitebread,cutinto1⁄2-inch

cubes(about8cups) 28-ouncepackagescreamcheese,cut

into3⁄4-inchcubes 1cupfreshorfrozenblueberries 12eggs 2cupsmilk 1⁄2 cuppuremaplesyrupormaple-

flavoredsyrup Blueberry-flavored,puremaple,or

maple-flavoredsyrup1. Coverthebottomofawell-buttered13×9×2-inchbakingdish(3-quartrectangular)withhalfthebreadcubes.Sprinklecreamcheeseandblueberriesoverbreadcubes.Arrangetheremainingbreadcubesovertheblueberries.2. Inalargemixingbowl,beateggswitharotarybeater;beatinmilkandthe1⁄2cuppuremaplesyrup.Carefullypoureggmixtureoverthebreadmixture.Coverandchillintherefrigeratorfor2to24hours.3.Bake,covered,ina375°ovenfor25minutes.Uncoverandbakeabout25minutesmoreoruntilaknifeinsertednearthecentercomesoutcleanandtoppingispuffedandgoldenbrown.Letstandfor10minutesbeforeserving.Servewarmwithblueberry-flavoredsyrup.Makes8servings.Nutritionfactsperserving:503cal.,30gfat,386mgchol.,497mgsodium,40gcarbo.,1gfiber,19gpro.

midwestliving.com 3

corn and chili chowder Nonstickcookingspray 115-ouncecanwholekernelcorn,drained 1mediumonion,chopped(1⁄2cup) 1⁄2 cupchoppedfreshAnaheim,poblanoorgreen

sweetpepper 1⁄2 cupchoppedredsweetpepper 3clovesgarlic,minced 2 tablespoonscookingoil 18-ouncecanbabylimabeans,drained 3 largepotatoes,peeled,ifdesired,andcutinto

1⁄2-inchcubes(11⁄2pounds) 14-ouncecandicedgreenchilipeppers 3cupswaterorvegetablebroth 2cupshalf-and-halforlightcream 1143⁄4-ouncecancream-stylecorn 1smallzucchini,halvedlengthwiseand

sliced1.Lightlycoata15×10×1-inchbakingpanwithcookingspray.Spreadthedrainedwholekernelcorninthepreparedpan.Roast,uncovered,ina450°ovenabout15minutesoruntilcornisbrowned,stirringoccasionally.2.In4-quartDutchoven,cookandstironion,peppersandgarlicinthehotoilovermedium-highheatabout5minutesoruntiltender.Stirinlimabeans,potatoesandundrainedchilipeppers.Addthewater.Stirinroastedcorn.Bringtoboiling,reduceheat.Simmer,uncovered,15minutes,stirringoccasionally.3.Stirinhalf-and-half,cream-stylecornandzucchini.Cookandstirabout5minutesmoreoruntilheatedthrough(don’tboil).Makes6to8servings.Nutritionfactsperserving:371cal.,15gfat,30mgchol.,518mgsodium,55gcarbo.,6gfiber,10gpro.

chicken-artichoke-Brie Soup 1⁄4 cupbutterormargarine 2mediumcarrots,chopped(1cup) 2stalkscelery,sliced(1cup) 1 largeonion,chopped(1cup) 2clovesgarlic,minced 214-ouncecanschickenbroth 1⁄2 teaspoongroundwhitepepper 1⁄4 teaspoonsalt 2cupshalf-and-half,lightcreamorwholemilk 1⁄4 cupall-purposeflour 11⁄2 cupscubedcookedchickenorturkey 1cupwhippingcream 1⁄2ofan8-or9-ouncepackagefrozenartichokehearts,thawedandcutintobite-size

pieces 1⁄2ofa10-ouncepackagefrozenchoppedspinach,thawedandwell-drained 141⁄2-ounceroundBrieorCamembertcheese,rindremovedandcutup Croutons(optional)1. Inalargesaucepan,meltbutterovermediumheat.Addcarrots,celery,onionandgarlic.Cookandstiruntilvegetablesaretender.Addthebroth,whitepepperandsalt.Bringsoupmixturetoboiling;reduceheat.Simmer,uncovered,for15minutes.2. Inalargescrew-topjar,combinethehalf-and-halfandflour.Coverandshakewelluntilsmooth;stirintosoup.Cookandstiruntilthickenedandbubbly.3. Stirinchicken,whippingcream,artichokehearts,spinachandBrie.Cookandstirovermedium-lowheatabout5minutesmoreoruntilheatedthroughandcheeseismelted.(Stiroftentomakesuresoupdoesn’tscorchonbottomofsaucepan.)4. Servesouptoppedwithcroutons.Makes8side-dishor4main-dishservings.Nutritionfactsperside-dishserving:393cal.,31gfat,119mgchol.,760mgsodium,12gcarbo.,2gfiber,16gpro.

SoupsA bowl of one of these rich, robust soups makes for a cozy family dinner or a tasty first course at a party.

This is comfort food with class: Bits of spinach and artichoke flavor our creamy

chicken soup. Serve it with thick slices of warm, crusty French bread for a no-fuss feast.

Top with flavored croutons!

midwestliving.com 4

Greek Orzo Salad 11⁄4 cupsdriedorzoorrosamarina(8ounces) 8ouncesfetacheese,cubedorcoarselycrumbled 1cupchoppedromatomato 1⁄2 cupchoppedpittedkalamataolivesorotherblackolives 1 tablespoonsnippedfreshbasil 1 tablespoonsnippedfreshflat-leaf(Italian)parsley 1⁄3 cupoliveoil 3 tablespoonslemonjuice 1smallclovegarlic,minced 1⁄2 teaspoonsnippedfreshoregano1.Cookorzopastaaccordingtopackagedirections;drain.Rinsewithcoldwater;drainagain.Transferpastatoalargebowl.Coverandchillintherefrigeratorfor1to2hours.Addfetacheese,tomato,olives,basilandparsleytothechilledpasta;stirtocombine.2.Fordressing:Inascrew-topjar,combineoil,lemonjuice,garlicandoregano.Shakewell.Pourdressingoverpastamixture;tosstocoat.Seasontotastewithsaltandblackpepper.Coverandchillinrefrigeratorfor2to24hours.Makes6main-dishservings.Nutritionfactsperserving:362cal.,22gfat,33mgchol.,596mgsodium,31gcarbo.,2gfiber,10gpro.

Salads

If you like, omit the chopped tomato from the salad and serve in hollowed tomato cups. Sprinkle with sliced green onions.

Thanks to today’s well-connected Midwestern supermarkets, we can expect a variety of flavors and fresh produce from around the world—in every season.

A simple, e l egant salad!

pear and Walnut Salad DijonVinaigrette(recipefollows) 2 ripemediumpears,coredandthinlysliced

lengthwise 1mediumheadBostonorBibblettuce 2ouncesGorgonzoladolce(Dolcelattecheese)or

bluecheese,cutintosmallwedges 1⁄4 cupwalnutpieces,toasted 1 largeyelloworredtomato,seededand

chopped1.PreparetheDijonVinaigrette.Inamediumbowl,tossthepearsliceswith1⁄3cupofthevinaigrette.2.Toserve:Linefoursaladbowlsorplateswithsomelettuceleaves.Topwithpearmixture.Topeachservingofpearswithcheese,walnutsandtomato.DrizzlewithremainingDijonVinaigrette.Makes4side-dishservings.

Dijon vinaigrette: Inascrew-topjar,mix1⁄2cupoliveoil,1⁄4cupwhitevinegarorwhite

winevinegar,1tablespoonsugar,1tablespoonDijon-stylemustard,1clove

mincedgarlic,1⁄4teaspoonkosherorseasalt,and1⁄4teaspoonfreshlygroundblackpepper.

Coverandshakewell.Serveimmediately.(Orstorethedressingintherefrigeratorforupto1week.Beforeserving,letdressingstandfor30minutesatroomtemperature.Justbeforeserving,shakethedressing.)Makesabout1cup.Nutritionfactsperserving:419cal.,36gfat,11mgchol.,414mgsodium,20gcarbo.,4gfiber,6gpro.

Gorgonzola dolce blue cheese is a soft blue-veined cheese with a mild flavor. Serve it as an appetizer, a dessert cheese or in salads.

Sparkles with color and flavor!

For more salad ideas, visit midwestliving.com/salads.

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midwestliving.com 5

Midwest-Style cobb Salad 1poundbonelessbeefsirloinsteak,cut1inchthick 3 tablespoonssaladoil 3 tablespoonswhitebalsamicorwhitewinevinegar 2 teaspoonsDijon-stylemustard 1 teaspoondriedoregano,crushed 6cupstornBostonorBibblettuce(one8-ouncehead) 11⁄2 cupschopped,seededtomato(2medium) 3⁄4 cupcrumbledMaytagBluecheeseorotherbluecheese 6slicesbacon,crisp-cooked,drainedandcrumbled 3hard-cookedeggs,coarselychopped 1⁄2 smallcantaloupe,peeledandcutintothinslices Vinaigrette(recipefollows)1.Slashfatedgesofsteakat1-inchintervals,beingcarefulnottocutintomeat.Placesteakonrackofanunheatedbroilerpan.Broil3inchesfromheatfor15to17minutesformedium-raredoneness,turningonce.Coolslightlyandcutsteakintothinslices.Placesteakinaresealableplasticbagsetinashallowbowl;setaside.2.Formarinade:Inascrew-topjar,combinesaladoil,vinegar,mustardandoregano.Cover;shakewellandpouroversteak.Sealbag.Marinatesteakintherefrigeratorfor6hoursorovernight,turningbagoccasionally.Drainofftheexcessmarinade.3.Toserve:Arrangelettuceonchilledsaladplates.Evenlydividesteak,tomato,cheese,baconandeggsamongplates.Topeachsaladwiththincantaloupeslices.DrizzlewithVinaigretteandpasstheremaining.Makes6main-dishservings.vinaigrette:Inasmallbowl,combine1⁄3cupwhitebalsamicorwhitewinevinegar;1teaspoonDijon-stylemustard;1clovegarlic,minced;1⁄2teaspoonsugar;1⁄4teaspoonsalt;and1⁄4teaspoongroundblackpepper.Usingawirewhisk,whiskingconstantly,add1⁄3cupoliveoilinathin,steadystream.Makesabout2⁄3cup.Nutritionfactsperserving:461cal.,32gfat,159mgchol.,573mgsodium,15gcarbo.,2gfiber,26gpro.

Fruit with Orange-Honey Yogurt Sauce

Mint-TarragonSyrup(recipefollows) Orange-HoneyYogurtSauce(recipefollows) 1⁄2ofamediumpineapple,peeled,coredand

thinlysliced 1⁄2ofasmallhoneydeworcantaloupemelon,

peeled,seededandcutintobite-sizepieces 2 redgrapefruits,peeled,seeded,sectionedor

slicedcrosswise 1papaya,halved,seeded,peeledandsliced

lengthwise 1⁄2 cupdesireddriedfruit(suchasapricots,

cherriesorstrawberries) 6 to8freshstrawberries,halved 6to8freshmintsprigs1.PreparetheMint-TarragonSyrupandtheOrange-HoneyYogurtSauce.2. Arrangethepineapple,melon,grapefruitandpapayaonaservingplatterorinsixtoeightindividualdishesorstemmedglasses.Topwithdesireddriedfruit.Lightlydrizzlethesyrupoverthefruit.Garnishwithfreshstrawberriesandmintsprigs.Topwithsauce.Makes6to8servings.Mint-Tarragon Syrup:Inasmallsaucepan,heat1⁄4cupmintjellyand1⁄2teaspoonsnippedfreshtarragonuntiljellymelts.Removefromheat;coolslightly.Setafine-meshsieveoverasmallbowl.Strainjellymixturethroughsieve;discardleaves.Orange-Honey Yogurt Sauce:Inasmallbowl,combineone6-ouncecartonvanillalow-fatyogurt,1tablespoonhoney,1⁄2teaspoonfinelyshreddedorangepeelor1⁄4teaspoondriedorangepeel,and1⁄4teaspoonvanilla.Transfersaucetoaservingbowl.Coverandchillatleast30minutes.Makes11⁄4cups.Nutritionfactsperserving:177cal.,1gfat,2mgchol.,39mgsodium,41gcarbo.,3gfiber,3gpro.

A rainbow of fruit!

Fresh ideas for a c lassic!

midwestliving.com 6

chicken and Shiitake Stir-Fry 1⁄2 cupdrysherry 2 tablespoonsvegetarianoystersauceoroystersauce 2 teaspoonstoastedsesameoil 1 tablespooncookingoil 3mediumcarrots,cutintothinbiasslices(11⁄2cups) 2mediumstalkscelery,cutintothinbiasslices(1cup) 4ouncesfreshshiitakemushrooms,trimmedandsliced(13⁄4cups) 1mediumredorgreensweetpepper,cutintothin,bite-sizestrips(1cup) 3greenonions,cutinto1⁄2-inchpieces 2cupscookedchicken,cutintobite-sizepieces(optional) 3cupshotcookedrice 1 tablespoontoastedsesameseeds1.Forsauce:Mixsherry,oystersauce,sesameoiland1⁄2teaspoonsalt;setaside.2.Pouroilintoawokora10-inchnonstickskillet.(Addmoreoilasnecessary.)Preheatovermedium-highheat.Addcarrots;stir-fry1minute.Addceleryandmushrooms;stir-fry2minutes.Addsweetpepperandgreenonions;stir-fry11⁄2to2minutesmoreoruntilvegetablesarecrisp-tender.Removefromheat.3.Stirsauce.Carefullyaddsaucetowokorskillet.Stirincookedchicken,ifyoulike.Returntoheat.Cookandstiruntilbubbly.Cookandstir1to2minutesmoreoruntilsauceisslightlythickened.Serveoverhotcookedrice.Sprinklewithadditionalgreenonion,ifyoulike,andtoastedsesameseeds.Makes4side-dishservings.(Makes4main-dishservings,ifchickenisused.)note:Toastsesameseeds,spreadathinlayerinshallowbakingpan,in350°ovenfor7to10minutesoruntilseedsarelightbrown,stirringonceortwice.Nutritionfactsperservingwithoutchicken:326cal.,8gfat,0mgchol.,544mgsodium,52gcarbo.,4gfiber,6gpro.

pork chops with pear-Maple Sauce 4bonelessporkloinchops,cut3⁄4inchthick

(about1pound) 1⁄2 teaspoonkoshersalt,seasaltorsalt 1⁄2 teaspoongroundblackpepper 1 tablespoonoliveoil 1⁄4 cupbutterormargarine 3 tablespoonspuremaplesyrupormaple-

flavoredsyrup 3 tablespoonspeach,apricotorplumpreserves

orjam 1⁄2 teaspoondriedbasilor11⁄2teaspoonssnipped

freshbasil 3mediumpears,coredandthinlysliced CranberryCouscous(recipefollows;optional)1.Trimfatfrompork.Sprinklechopswithsaltandblackpepper.Ina10-inchskillet,heatoilovermedium-highheat.Cookchopsfor8to12minutesoruntilchopsaredone(160°andjuicesrunclear),turningonce.Removechopsfromskillet.Covertokeepwarm;setaside.2.Forsauce:Insameskillet,meltbutterovermediumheat.Stirinmaplesyrup,peachpreservesandbasil.Addpears.Cook,covered,3minutesorjustuntilthepearsaretenderandheatedthrough,occasionallyspooningsauceoverpears.Servechopswithsauceand,ifyoulike,CranberryCouscous.Makes4servings.cranberry couscous: Inamediumsaucepan,bringone14-ouncecanvegetablebrothorreduced-sodiumchickenbrothand1tablespoonbutterormargarine

toboiling.Stirin1cupquick-cookingcouscous,1⁄3cupdriedcranberriesorsnippeddriedtartcherriesand2tablespoonsthinlyslicedgreenonion.

Removefromheat.Coverandletstandabout5minutesoruntilliquidisabsorbed.Fluffcouscouswithaforkbeforeserving.Makesabout31⁄2cups.Nutritionfactsperservingwithoutcouscous:461cal.,23gfat,95mgchol.,417mgsodium,39gcarbo.,3gfiber,25g.

EntreesChicken, pork and fresh vegetables or fruit combine for quick and easy dinners packed with nutrition and flavor. Most of these will be on the table in 30 minutes or less!

Serve meat less or with chicken!For more quick and easy dinner ideas, visit midwestliving.com/30minute.

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midwestliving.com 7

chicken Spiedini 11⁄4poundschickenbreasttenderloins 2⁄3 cupbottledsweetItaliansaladdressing

orbottledItaliansaladdressing 3⁄4 cupseasonedfinedrybreadcrumbs 3⁄4 cuphalvedfreshmushrooms 2clovesgarlic,minced 1 tablespoonbutter 1⁄4 cupcoarselychoppedprosciutto 3⁄4 cupshreddedprovelormozzarellacheese

(3ounces) 1 lemon,quartered1. Placechickeninresealableplasticbagsetinashallowdish.Poursaladdressingoverchicken.Sealbag;turntocoatchicken.Marinateinrefrigerator2to24hours,turningbagoccasionally.2. Drainchicken,discardingmarinade.Placebreadcrumbsinashallowdish.Dipchickeninbreadcrumbstocoat.Onfivetosixlongmetalskewers,threadchicken,accordion-style,leaving1⁄4-inchspacebetweeneachpiece.3. Grillskewersontherackofanuncoveredgrilldirectlyovermediumcoalsfor10to12minutesoruntilchickenisnolongerpink(170°),turningoncehalfwaythroughgrilling.4. Inalargeskillet,cookmushroomsandgarlicinhotbutter5minutesoruntilmushroomsarejusttender,stirringoccasionally.Addprosciutto;cookandstirfor2minutesmore.5. Toserve:Removechickenfromskewers;arrangeonplate.Sprinklewithhalfofthecheese.Spoononmushroommixture.Sprinklewiththeremainingcheese.Squeezesomelemonovereachserving.Makes4servings.Nutritionfactsperserving:385cal.,14gfat,113mgchol.,1331mgsodium,19gcarbo.,0gfiber,46gpro.

Grilling tipsFor a charcoal grill: GrillChickenSpiediniskewersontherackofanuncoveredgrilldirectlyovermediumcoalsfor10to12minutesoruntilchickenisnolongerpink(170°),turningoncehalfwaythroughgrilling.For a gas grill:Preheatgrill.Reduceheattomedium.Placeskewersongrillrackoverheat.Coverandgrillasdirectedabove.

Grilled pork Wraps 21-poundporktenderloins 2 tablespoonshoney 2 tablespoonsDijon-stylemustard 1⁄8 teaspoongroundcumin CornRelish(recipefollows) 108-to10-inchplainorflavoredflour

tortillas1. Trimfatfrommeat.Sprinklemeatwithsaltandfreshlygroundblackpepper.Forglaze:Inbowl,combinehoney,mustardandcumin.2. Coverandgrill30to35minutesoruntilinstant-readthermometerregisters155°,brushingwithglazethelast5to10minutesofgrilling.Toserve,slicemeatintothinbite-sizestrips.DividemeatandCornRelishamongtortillas.Rollup.Makes10sandwiches.corn Relish:Thawone16-ouncepackagefrozenwholekernelcorn;drainwellandpatdrywithpapertowelsoruse3cupsfreshwholekernelcorn.Inalargeskillet,heat2tablespoonsoliveoilovermediumheat.Addcorn,1⁄2cupfinelychoppedredonionand/orgreenonion,1⁄4cupfinelychoppedceleryorgreensweetpepper,1teaspoonmincedgarlic,3⁄4teaspoonsalt,1⁄2teaspoongroundcuminorchilipowder,and1⁄8teaspooncayenneorgroundblackpepper.Cook10minutesoruntilvegetablesaretender,stirringoccasionally.Removefromheat.Stirin3⁄4cupfinelychoppedandseededtomato,1⁄4cupsnippedfreshparsley,1⁄4cupmayonnaiseand1tablespoonlimejuice.Coverandchill1to24hours.Makes3cups.Nutritionfactsperserving:323cal.,12gfat,62mgchol.,501mgsodium,30gcarbo.,2gfiber,23gpro.

Spiedini = skewers!midwestliving.com 8

peanut Butter Oatmeal Biggies

Sparkling Sour cream Sugar cookies 1⁄2 cupbutter,softened 1cupgranulatedsugar 1 teaspoonbakingpowder 1⁄4 teaspoonbakingsoda Dashsalt 1⁄2 cupdairysourcream 1egg 1 teaspoonfinelyshreddedorangepeel 1⁄2 teaspoonlemonextract 21⁄2 cupsall-purposeflour PowderedSugarIcing(recipefollows)oryour

favoritefrosting1.Inmixingbowl,beatsoftenedbutterwithelectricmixeronmediumtohighspeedfor30seconds.Addsugar,bakingpowder,bakingsodaandsalt;beatwell.Beatinsourcream,egg,peelandlemonextract.Beatinasmuchflourasyoucanwiththemixer.Usingwoodenspoon,stirinremainingflour.Divideinhalf.Coverandchillfor1to2hoursoruntileasytohandle.

2.Onawell-flouredsurface,rollouthalfofthedoughatatimeto1⁄4-inchthickness.Usinga

cookiecutter,cutdoughintodesiredshapes.Placecookies1inchapartonanungreasedcookiesheet.3.Bakeina375ºovenfor6to7minutes

oruntiledgesarefirmandbottomsarelightbrown.Transfercookiestoawirerack;cool.

4.PreparethePowderedSugarIcingoryourfavoritefrosting.Spreadtheicingoverthecookies.If

youlike,immediatelytopeachfrostedcookiewithcandiedcitruspeelorletdryandpaintdesignsoneachwithfoodcoloring.Makes40to50cookies.powdered Sugar Icing: Inamedium

mixingbowl,beattogether4cupssiftedpowderedsugarand1⁄4cupmilk.Stirin

additionalmilkifneeded,1teaspoonatatime,untilglazeiseasytospread.Tintwithfoodcoloring,ifyoulike.Nutritionfactspercookie:105cal.,3gfat,13mgchol.,50mgsodium,18gcarbo.,0gfiber,1gpro.

DessertsOur favorite sweet treats include mouthwatering cookies, decadent pies, an easy fondue, ice cream, a chocolate soufflé and a Midwest German-style peach kuchen.

3⁄4 cuppeanutbutter 1⁄2 cupbutter,softened 3⁄4 cuppackedbrownsugar 1⁄2 cupgranulatedsugar 1⁄2 teaspoonbakingpowder 1⁄4 teaspoonbakingsoda 2eggs

1 teaspoonvanilla 11⁄4 cupsall-purposeflour 21⁄2 cupsregularrolledoats 11⁄2 cupsraisinsand/or

semisweetchocolatepieces Smallscoopsvanillaand/or

chocolateicecream1. Lightlygreaselargecookiesheets;setasidewhilepreparingcookiedough.2. Inalargemixingbowl,beatpeanutbutterandbutterwithanelectricmixerfor30seconds.Addthebrownsugar,granulatedsugar,bakingpowderandbakingsoda.Beatonmediumspeeduntilmixtureisfluffy.Addtheeggsandthevanilla;beatmixturewell.Beatinflouronlowspeed.Withawoodenspoon,stirinrolledoatsandtheraisinsand/orsemisweetchocolatepieces.3. Using1⁄4cupdoughforeachcookie,dropthedough3inchesapartonpreparedcookiesheets.Pressthedoughinto4-inchcircles.4. Bakethecookiesina375ºovenabout10minutesoruntiltheedgesstarttobrown.Coolcookiesoncookiesheetfor1minute.Transferthecookiestowirerackstocoolthoroughly.Makes16to18largecookies.note:Tomakeasandwichcookie,placesmallscoops(about2tablespoonseach)ofvanillaand/orchocolateicecreamonflatsideofacookie.Topwithanothercookie,flatsidedown,andpresslightly;topwithtwomoresmallscoopsoficecream.Nutritionfactspercookiewithraisins:316cal.,13gfat,42mgchol.,158mgsodium,45gcarbo.,3gfiber,7gpro.

Great without ice cream, too!

For more dessert ideas, visit midwestliving.com/desserts.

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Spiced pumpkin chiffon pie GingersnapCrust(recipefollows) 1⁄2 cupsugar 1envelopeunflavoredgelatin 1⁄2 teaspoongroundcinnamon 1⁄2 teaspoongroundallspice 1⁄4 teaspoonsalt 1⁄4 teaspoongroundginger 1⁄4 teaspoongroundnutmeg 3⁄4 cupmilk 2eggyolks 1cupcannedpumpkin 1cupwhippingcream 2tablespoonssugar1. PrepareGingersnapCrust;setaside.2. Forfilling:Inaheavymediumsaucepan,stirtogetherthe1⁄2cupsugar,gelatin,cinnamon,allspice,salt,gingerandnutmeg;stirinmilk.Cookandstirovermediumheatuntilgelatindissolves.Inamediumbowl,slightlybeateggyolkswitharotarybeaterorfork.Graduallystirabouthalfofhotmilkmixtureintoyolks.Pouryolkmixtureintohotfillinginpan;stirinpumpkin.Bringtoagentleboil;reduceheat.Cookandstirfor2minutesmore;removefromheat.Transfertoalargebowl.Coverandchilluntilmixturemoundswhenspooned,stirringoccasionally(1to11⁄2hours).3. Inachilledmixingbowl,combinewhippingcreamandthe2tablespoonssugar.Beatwithchilledbeatersofanelectricmixeronmediumspeeduntilsoftpeaksform.Foldwhippedcreamintopumpkinmixture.Coverandchillagainuntilmixturemoundswhenspooned(about30minutes).Transferfillingtocrust.Coverandchillfor4hoursoruntilset.Topwithadditionalwhippedcream,ifyoulike.Makes8servings.Gingersnap crust: Inamediumbowl,combine11⁄4cupsfinelycrushedgingersnaps(20to22cookies)and1⁄3cupmeltedbutter;

German-Style peach Kuchen 11⁄2 cupsall-purposeflour 3⁄4 cupgranulatedsugar 2 teaspoonsbakingpowder 1⁄4 teaspoonsalt 1⁄4 teaspoongroundnutmeg 1⁄4 cupbutter 1⁄2 cupmilk 1egg,slightlybeaten 2cupsslicedfreshorunsweetened

frozenpeaches,thawedandwelldrainedonpapertowels

1⁄3 cuppackedbrownsugar 1 tablespoonlight-colorcornsyrup 1 tablespoonbutter 1 teaspoonlemonjuice 1⁄4 teaspoongroundnutmeg1. Greaseandflouran11-inchtartpanwitharemovablebottom.Setaside.2. Forcrust:Inbowl,mixflour,sugar,bakingpowder,saltand1⁄4teaspoonnutmeg.Usingpastryblenderor2knives,cutin1⁄4cupbutteruntilmixtureresemblescoarsecrumbs.Makewellincenter;addmilkandeggallatoncetoflourmixture.Stirjustuntilmoistenedanddoughclingstogether.Evenlyspreadbatterinthepreparedpan.Halveanylargeslicesoffrozenpeaches;arrangeontopinsinglelayer.3. Fortopping:Insmallsaucepan,mixbrownsugar,cornsyrup,1tablespoonbutter,lemonjuiceandthe1⁄4teaspoonnutmeg.Bringtoboiling.Quicklydrizzleoverpeachslices.4. Bakein350°oven30to35minutesoruntiltoothpickinsertedincentercomesoutclean.Coolinpanonwirerack15minutes.Removesidesofpan.Sprinklewithpowderedsugar.Servewarm.Makes10servings.Nutritionfactsperserving:240cal.,7gfat,39mgchol.,218mgsodium,42gcarbo.,1gfiber,3gpro.

tosstomixwell.Spreadevenlyintoa9-inchpieplate.Pressontobottomandupsidestoformafirm,evencrust.Chillabout1houroruntilfirm.(Orbakeina375°ovenfor4to5minutesoruntiledgeislightlybrowned.Coolonawirerackbeforefilling.)Makes1(9-inch)piecrust.Nutritionfactsperserving:349cal.,23gfat,118mgchol.,299mgsodium,33gcarbo.,1gfiber,5gpro.

lemonade Ice cream 4cupswhippingcream 114-ouncecansweetenedcondensed

milk,chilled 112-ouncecanfrozenlemonade

concentrate,thawed Severaldropsyellowfoodcoloring

(optional)1. Inlargebowl,mixwhippingcream,sweetenedcondensedmilkandthawedlemonade.Addseveraldropsofyellowfoodcoloring,ifyouwantamorelemonycolor.2. Transferto4-quarticecreammakerandfreezeaccordingtomanufacturer’sdirections.Ripen4hours.Makesabout8cupsicecream.Nutritionfactsper1⁄2-cupserving:336cal.,24gfat,91mgchol.,55mgsodium,28gcarbo.,0gfiber,3gpro.

Try with whipped cream!

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Something Special apple-cherry pie 115-ouncepackagerolledrefrigeratedunbakedpiecrust(2crusts) 1⁄2 cuptoastedalmonds,chopped 6cupsthinlysliced,peeledJonathanorGoldenDeliciousapples 1⁄3 cupcherrypreserves 1⁄2 cupsugar 3 tablespoonsall-purposeflour 1⁄2 teaspoongroundcardamom 1cupfrozenunsweetenedpittedtartredcherries,thawed Milk Sugar1. Letpiecrustsstandatroomtemperatureaccordingtopackagedirections.Unrollpiecrusts.Easeapiecrustintoa9-inchpiepan,beingcarefulnottostretchpastry.(Donotprickpiecrust.)Ifneeded,trimbottompiecrustto1⁄2inchbeyondedgeofpieplate.Sprinklealmondsonthebottompiecrust.2. Forfilling:Inalargebowl,tossappleswiththecherrypreserves.Inasmallbowl,stirtogetherthe1⁄2cupsugar,flourandcardamom.Addsugarmixturetotheapplemixture;addcherries.Gentlytossthefruittocoat.3. Transferfillingintothepastry-linedpieplate.Cutremainingpiecrustinto1⁄2-inch-widestripsforlatticetop.Weavepiecruststripsoverfillingandpressintobottompastry.Foldbottompiecrustoverstrips;sealandcrimpedge.Brushwithmilkandsprinklewithadditionalsugar.4. Coveredgeofthepiewithfoiltopreventoverbrowning.Bakeina375°ovenfor25minutes.Removethefoil.Bakefor30to35minutesmoreoruntilthelatticetopisgoldenandthefillingisbubbly.Coolthepieonawirerack.Makes8servings.Nutritionfactsperserving:481cal.,22gfat,0mgchol.,225mgsodium,68gcarbo.,4gfiber,6gpro.

Best carrot-pineapple cake 2cupssiftedcakeflour 13⁄4cupssugar 1 tablespoongroundcinnamon 1teaspoonbakingpowder 1 teaspoonbakingsoda 1⁄2 teaspoonsalt 1⁄2 teaspoongroundallspice 11⁄4cupsfinelyshreddedcarrot 181⁄4-ouncecancrushedpineapple(syruppack) 3⁄4 cupmayonnaise 4eggs 1cupchoppedwalnuts,toasted CreamCheeseFrosting(recipefollows)1. Greaseandflourtwo8×11⁄2-inchor9×11⁄2-inchroundbakingpans.Setaside.2. Inalargemixingbowl,combineflour,sugar,cinnamon,bakingpowder,bakingsoda,saltandallspice.Addcarrot,undrainedpineapple,mayonnaiseandeggs.Beatwithelectricmixeronlowspeeduntilmoistened.Beatonmedium2minutes,scrapingsidesofbowloccasionally.Stirinthewalnutsbyhand.3. Pourthebatterintothepreparedpans.Bakeina350°oven30to35minutesoruntilatoothpickinsertednearthecenterscomesoutclean.Coolcakeinpansonwireracksfor10minutes.Loosensides.Removecakesfrompans.Coolcakelayersthoroughlyonwireracks.4. Toassemble:Placeacakelayeronaservingplate.Spreadlayerwithabout1⁄2cupofthefrosting.Topwithsecondlayer.Spreadtopandsideswiththeremainingfrosting.Storethefrostedcake,covered,inrefrigerator.Makes14servings.cream cheese Frosting: Inalargemixingbowl,beatone8-ouncepackagecreamcheese,softened;1⁄2cupunsaltedbutter,softened;and2teaspoonsvanillawithelectricmixeruntillightandfluffy.Graduallybeatinenoughsiftedpowderedsugar(about4cups)tomakespreadable.Nutritionfactsperserving:562cal.,29gfat,104mgchol.,340mgsodium,72gcarbo.,2gfiber,6gpro. Fill with Midwest fruit!

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Millionaire’s pie PastryforSingle-CrustPie(recipe

follows) 3eggs 1cuplight-coloredcornsyrup 1⁄3 cupgranulatedsugar 1⁄3 cuppackedbrownsugar 1⁄3 cupbutter,melted 1 teaspoonvanilla 1cupsemisweetchocolatepieces 1cupflakedcoconut 1cupwalnutorpecanpieces1. PreparePastryforSingle-CrustPie.Transferpastrybywrappingitaroundarollingpin.Unrollpastryintoa9-inchpieplate.Easepastryintopieplatewithoutstretching.Trimpastryto1⁄2inchbeyondedgeofpieplate.Foldunderextrapastry.Crimpedge.(Donotprickthecrust.)Setaside.2. Forfilling:Inamediumbowl,mixeggs,cornsyrup,sugars,butter,vanillaand1⁄4

teaspoonsalt.Inpastryshell,layersemisweetchocolatepieces,coconutandwalnutpieces.Poureggmixtureoverall,spreadingevenly.Topreventoverbrowning,coveredgeofpastryshellwithfoil.3. Bakeina350°oven30minutes.Removefoil;bakefor20to25minutesmoreoruntilfillingappearssetwhenyoushakepiegently.Coolcompletelyonawirerack.Coverandstoreinrefrigeratorwithin2hours.Ifyoulike,servewithwhippedcreamandsprinklewithtoastedcoconut.Makes8to10servings.PastryforSingle-CrustPie:Stirtogether11⁄4cupsall-purposeflourand1⁄4teaspoonsalt.Usingapastryblender,cutin1⁄3cupshorteninguntilpiecesarepea-size.Sprinkle1tablespoonofcoldwateroverpartofmixture;tosswithafork.Pushmoisteneddoughtosideofbowl.Repeatmoisteningdough,using1tablespooncoldwateratatime,untilalldoughismoistened(4to5tablespoonscoldwatertotal).Formdoughintoaball.Onalightlyflouredsurface,slightlyflattendough.Rolldoughfromcentertoedgesintotoacircle12inchesindiameter.Nutritionfactsperserving:679cal.,39gfat,101mgchol.,349mgsodium,84gcarbo.,4gfiber,9gpro.

The Original chocolate Fondue 1111⁄2-ouncepackagemilkchocolatepieces 1⁄4 cupmilk 1 tablespooncrunchypeanutbutter Milk Assortedfruits(suchasorange,

strawberries,pear,banana,apple) Poundcakeorangelfoodcakecubes Marshmallows1. Inaheavysmallsaucepan,combinechocolatepiecesand1⁄4cupmilk.Heatoverlowheat,stirringconstantly,untilchocolateismelted.Stirinpeanutbutter.Cookandstiruntilheatedthrough.Stirinmoremilk,1tablespoonatatime,untildesiredconsistency.2. Pourmixtureintoafonduepot;placeoverfondueburnersetonlow.Withfondueforksorlongskewers,dipfruitdippers,cakecubesand/ormarshmallowsintochocolatemixture.(Willholdupto1houronlow.Ifmixturegetstoothick,addmilk1tablespoonatatime.)Makes5(1⁄4-cup)servings.Nutritionfactsperserving(withoutdippers):374cal.,22gfat,17mgchol.,69mgsodium,38gcarbo.,3gfiber,8gpro.

Bittersweet chocolate Soufflé 7eggwhites 10ouncesbittersweetchocolate,coarsely

chopped 1⁄2 cupbutter Butter Granulatedsugar 1⁄4 cupgranulatedsugar Siftedpowderedsugar(optional) Raspberrysorbet(optional)1. Inalargemixingbowl,leteggwhitesstandatroomtemperaturefor30minutes.Inthetoppanofadoubleboilerplacedovergentlysimmeringwaterorinaheavymediumsaucepan,heatchocolateandthe1⁄2cupbutteroverlowheat,stirringconstantlyuntilchocolatemeltsandsmooth.Removefromheat;coolfor30minutes.2. Lightlybuttersidesof9oven-safe4-ouncecoffeecups,potdecrèmecups,custardcupsorramekins.Sprinkleinsideofeachwithgranulatedsugarandrotatecupuntilthesugarhascoatedallofthebutter.Gentlyshakeoutanyexcesssugar.Setaside.3. Beateggwhiteswithanelectricmixeronmediumspeeduntilsoftpeaksform(tipscurl).Graduallyaddthe1⁄4cupgranulatedsugar,beatinguntilstiffpeaksform(tipsstandstraight).Foldabout1cupofthebeateneggwhitesintocooledchocolatemixture.Foldchocolatemixtureintoremainingeggwhites.Evenlydividemixtureamongpreparedcups.4. Bakeina375°ovenabout18minutesoruntilaknifeinsertednearcentercomesoutclean.Serveimmediatelysprinkledwithpowderedsugarandservewithraspberrysorbet,ifyoulike.Makes9servings.Nutritionfactsperserving:298cal.,22gfat,32mgchol.,162mgsodium,24gcarbo.,2gfiber,5gpro.

Fabulously rich!midwestliving.com 12