Spice up movie night or lift your spirits during a mid-afternoon energy slump with these popcorn bars full of nutritional goodness. The cardamom and orange zest are the surprise flavour boosters.
4 cups (1 L) popped popcorn
1 1/2 cups (350 mL) rolled oats
1/2 cup (125 mL) roughly chopped almonds
1/2 cup (125 mL) raisins
1/4 tsp (1 mL) ground cardamom
1/4 tsp (1 mL) sea salt
1/2 cup (125 mL) honey
1/4 cup (60 mL) coconut palm sugar or other raw style sugar
1/3 cup (80 mL) unsalted almond butter
1 tsp (5 mL) orange zest
In large bowl combine popcorn, oats, almonds, raisins, cardamom, and salt.
In small saucepan, heat honey and sugar over medium-low heat until sugar has dissolved. Stir in almond butter and orange zest.
Pour honey mixture onto popcorn mixture and stir until all contents are moist.
Line 8 x 8 x 2 in (2 L) square baking pan with wax or parchment paper. Place popcorn mixture into pan and press down firmly. Place in refrigerator for at least 2 hours to harden.
Slice into 12 squares for serving.
Serves 12.
Each serving contains: 199 calories; 4 g protein; 8 g total fat (1 g sat. fat, 0 g trans fat); 31 g total carbohydrates (18 g sugar, 3 g fibre); 52 mg sodium
source: "Popcorn", alive #359, September 2012
Ever thought about making burgers as an appetizer or as a potluck meal for friends and family? Try making your favourite burger into bite-sized portions. They might be small in size, but they won’t be small in flavour. These burgers also pair well with a Greek salad for a delicious mid-week lunch or dinner. Fresh is best Squeeze fresh lemon on patties while cooking to give them the fresh zing of citrus.
What worldwide vacation is complete without a stop in Italy? Dad won’t miss the meat in this flavourful mushroom alternative complete with Italian spices and a zesty vegetable tapenade. Portobellos have a uniquely “meaty” texture and act as a sponge to lock in loads of flavour. This meaty plant-based burger is sure to become a favourite—even with any meat-lovers in your life. Custom-made! Don’t be afraid to customize your burger buns to fit your patties. If your bun’s too big, trim off excess and save the trimmed bits of bread, but don’t discard. Instead, cut into small cubes; drizzle with some olive oil, sea salt, and seasonings of choice; bake at 350 F (180 C) for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons for use in soups and salads throughout the week.
Next stop, Asia! This shrimp burger combines classic Asian flavours with unique toppings for rich umami flavour with the saltiness of the ocean. Whether served on a bun or over rice in a more traditional Asian-style meal, try some unique miso yogurt or wasabi mayo dressing for a fabulous flavour bomb. Keep those burgers juicy Place raw patties on a plate or tray, and cover and freeze or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to keep them together and to lock in moisture.
While on your burger journey, visit Jamaica, where you’ll find the spicy jerk flavours native to this beautiful island. Maple syrup adds a unique, sticky sweetness, while fresh lime juice highlights the fresh, tangy flavours of the Caribbean. Try making your own jerk seasoning or purchase store-bought for an easy shortcut.