JEAN JITOMIR, MS, RD: NUTRITIONIST, SPEAKER, WRITER

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Dessert

High-Protein Frozen Fudgie Bars

Protein-Packed Pumpkin Pie

High-Protein Rice Crispie Treats

Banana Berry Frozen Mousse

Sugarless Almond Merigues

Peanut Butter "Fudge"

Kashi Protein Bar

Low-Sugar Protein Jell-0

Other

High Protein Taco Dip

High Protein Roasted Moussaka Stew

Homemade High-Protein Yogurt

Pure Protein Pancake

Hearty Vegetarian Chili

High-Protein Roasted Moussaka Stew

Moussaka recipes boast a host of healthy, anti-oxidant-rich ingredients, but the nutritional value is compromised by high-fat meat, generous use of olive oil, and a rich cheese layer. This hearty stew highlights the flavors of the vegetables and herbs, while sparing the diner extra calories and fat. Cook a pot on Sunday and reheat for an easy, healthy meal throughout the week.

Preheat oven to 375oF

Ingredients 
      cooking spray

3    medium eggplants, cubed or thinly sliced

1    large sweet onion, chopped

2    cloves garlic, minced or pressed

1 lb 96% lean ground beef


3    14.5 oz cans fire-roasted, diced tomatoes

1    quart beef broth (low-sodium if preferred)

½   cup brown rice*

2    Tbsp dried oregano

½   teaspoon cinnamon

1     bay leaf

½   tsp ground cumin

1     Tbsp plum vinegar (optional) 

       fresh ground pepper and sea salt to taste 

      top with fresh thyme or Romano cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Spread eggplant in a single layer on several cookie sheets and top with salt and pepper

2.  Roast eggplant in the oven for 25-35 minutes, until outside is browned and chewy and middle is soft

3. In a large soup pot, spray cooking spray and sauté the onions until translucent; add garlic and cook for another minutes

4. Add the beef; break up and cook until lightly browned on the outside

5. Add roasted eggplant and remaining ingredients to the pot

6. Simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours; add extra water as needed

7. Remove bay leaf; add salt, pepper, and thyme to taste 


Serves 6

Nutrition (1/6 of recipe or about 2 cups):

280 Calories, 24 g protein, 37 g carbs, 3 g fiber, 4.5 g fat, 1.5 g saturated fat, 700 mg sodium; 20% daily iron, 45% daily vitamin C

* omit the rice: 220 Calories; 25 g carbs