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Kasha Bowl with Vegetables and Chicken

Kasha Bowl with Vegetables and Chicken
Kasha Bowl with Vegetables and Chicken

A wholesome kasha bowl topped with vegetables and tender chicken, finished with a creamy yogurt-based dressing and a sprinkle of Canadian Cheddar for a rich, satisfying bite.

Preparation time 20 minutes
Cooking time 15 to 20 minutes
Yields 4 servings
Recipe created by Josée Robitaille

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    530 Calories

  • Protein

    49 g

  • Carbohydrate

    42 g

  • Fat

    20 g

  • Fibre

    4.6 g

  • Sodium

    414 mg

  •  

    Top 5 nutrients provided by a serving of this recipe

     

    Nutrient and % DV*

  • Calcium

    28 % / 362 mg

  • Niacin

    176 %

  • Vitamin B6

    85 %

  • Selenium

    80 %

  • Pantothenic Acid

    56 %

  • * Note: The daily value (DV) is established by Health Canada and corresponds to the daily quantity recommended for each nutrient. The percentage of the daily value (% DV) indicates the proportion of the nutrient provided by a serving of the recipe, in comparison with the quantity recommended.

Ingredients

  • 250 mL (1 cup) white buckwheat (kasha)

  • 375 mL (1 ½ cups) water

  • One pinch of salt

  • 125 mL (1/2 cup) plain yogurt

  • 15 mL (1 tbsp) basilic pesto

  • 15 mL (1 tbsp) white balsamic vinegar

  • Zest of one lemon, finely grated

  • 1 small clove garlic, crushed in a garlic press or finely chopped

  • 500 mL (2 cups) cherry tomatoes, cut in 4

  • Small drizzle of olive oil

  • 1 litre (4 cups) baby spinach, coarsely chopped

  • 2 Lebanese cucumbers, julienned

  • 1/2 fennel bulb, minced

  • 400 g (14 oz) cooked chicken, sliced or diced

  • 250 mL (1 cup) Canadian Cheddar, cubed

  • Fresh basil (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

  1. Rinse the buckwheat in cold water. In a saucepan, bring the water, buckwheat and salt to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, 15 to 20 minutes, until the water is completely absorbed. Transfer to a large plate and let cool.
  2. In a small bowl, prepare the dressing by mixing the yogurt, pesto, vinegar, lemon zest and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Once the buckwheat has cooled off, transfer it into a bowl and add half the dressing. Mix well.
  4. In another bowl, toss the tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  5. Divide the spinach into 4 bowls. Add the buckwheat. Garnish with the cucumbers, tomatoes, fennel, chicken and Cheddar.
  6. Serve with the remaining dressing and, if desired, garnish with fresh basil.

For more dietitians’ favourite recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Simple Mushroom, Spinach and Tomato Frittata

Frittata
Frittata

This satisfying meal uses only seven main ingredients and goes from stovetop to tabletop in fewer than 30 minutes! Made in one pan, packed with protein, and brimming with veggies, this dish is a triple delight: fast, healthy and tasty. 

Bulb

Including enough protein with your meals will help tame your hunger and keep you feeling satisfied longer. This recipe fits the bill as it features protein foods in Canada’s Food Guide such as cheese, Greek yogurt and eggs.

Preparation time 8 minutes
Bake time 7 minutes
Yields 4 servings
Bulb

Did you know? Similar to many other Canadian agricultural sectors, the Canadian dairy sector also has an on-farm program to ensure milk safety and quality, optimal animal care and environmental standards.

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    354 Calories

  • Protein

    29 g

  • Carbohydrate

    9 g

  • Fat

    23 g

  • Fibre

    2.2 g

  • Sodium

    446 mg

  • Top 5 nutrients provided by a serving of this recipe

     

    Nutrient and % DV*

  • Calcium

    37 % / 482 mg

  • Vitamin B12

    133 %

  • Selenium

    85 %

  • Pantothenic Acid

    76 %

  • Riboflavin

    75 %

  • * Note: The daily value (DV) is established by Health Canada and corresponds to the daily quantity recommended for each nutrient. The percentage of the daily value (% DV) indicates the proportion of the nutrient provided by a serving of the recipe, in comparison with the quantity recommended.

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp (15 mL) butter

  • 3 cups (750 mL) sliced cremini mushrooms

  • 8 eggs

  • 1 cup (250 mL) Greek yogurt

  • 1/2 tsp (2 mL) each salt and fresh ground pepper

  • 1 cup (250 mL) grated Swiss cheese, divided

  • 3 cups (750 mL) baby spinach

  • 1 cup (250 mL) grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

Preparation

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. In a 12-inch (30 cm) ovenproof skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat; add mushrooms. Cook 2 minutes; stir. Cook 3 more minutes, stirring halfway through or until mushrooms are golden-brown. Set aside a couple of mushrooms for garnish.
  3. Meanwhile, in large bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, salt and pepper until smooth. Whisk in half of the cheese; set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add spinach and cook, stirring until wilted, about 1 minute. Pour egg mixture over top; stir gently. Top with tomatoes, cut side facing up, remaining cheese and reserved mushrooms. Cook 2 minutes or until there are several bubbling spots in egg mixture.
  5. Bake 5 minutes. Turn on broiler; broil for 1 to 2 minutes or until set. Remove from oven. Let stand 5 minutes.
Bulb

Frittatas are an ideal way to use up various ingredients and leftovers in your fridge. This helps minimize food waste, which is key to reducing your diet’s environmental impact. This frittata works perfectly with slightly wilted spinach, mixed bits of cheese and those random mushrooms languishing at the bottom of your crisper.

For more dietitians’ favourite recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Curry with Chickpeas and Squash

Curry with Chickpeas and Squash
Curry with Chickpeas and Squash

Since cow’s milk naturally provides more nutrients than coconut milk, it’s a great choice when making curry.

Preparation time 15 minutes
Cooking time about 28 minutes
Yields 4 servings
Recipe created by Josée Robitaille

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    384 Calories

  • Protein

    16 g

  • Carbohydrate

    59 g

  • Fat

    12 g

  • Fibre

    12.3 g

  • Sodium

    588 mg

  •  

    Top 5 nutrients provided by a serving of this recipe

     

    Nutrient and % DV*

  • Calcium

    27 % / 352 mg

  • Vitamin C

    113 %

  • Vitamin A

    73 %

  • Folate

    45 %

  • Niacin

    37 %

  • * Note: The daily value (DV) is established by Health Canada and corresponds to the daily quantity recommended for each nutrient. The percentage of the daily value (% DV) indicates the proportion of the nutrient provided by a serving of the recipe, in comparison with the quantity recommended.

Ingredients

  • 30 mL (2 tbsp) butter

  • 30 mL (2 tbsp) ground curry

  • 2.5 mL (1/2 tsp) ground turmeric

  • 2 onions, minced

  • 15 mL (1 tbsp) ginger, finely grated

  • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped

  • 750 mL (3 cups) butternut squash, cubed

  • 375 mL (1½ cups) vegetable broth

  • 15 mL (1 tbsp) tomato paste

  • 540 mL (19 oz) canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 500 mL (2 cups) cauliflower, cut into small florets

  • 750 mL (3 cups) kale, chopped

  • 500 mL (2 cups) milk

  • 30 mL (2 tbsp) cornstarch

  • 45 mL (3 tbsp) fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Salt to taste

Preparation

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Add the curry and turmeric and mix well. Add the onions and cook over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring regularly.
  2. Add the ginger, garlic, squash, broth and tomato paste and mix well. Season with salt and bring to a boil. Cook, covered, over medium-low heat for 15 minutes.
  3. Add the chickpeas, cauliflower and kale. Continue cooking for 5 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the milk and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the squash curry and bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  5. Check the seasoning. Add the cilantro and serve.

For more dietitians’ favourite recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Easy Broccoli, Bean and Fusilli Pasta

Pasta
Pasta

Minimize your environmental footprint and nourish your body at the same time; prepare dishes with nutritious and minimally processed ingredients like this quick n’ creamy pasta dish made with veggies, kidney beans, milk and cheese.

Bulb

This recipe is an excellent source of calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B12, riboflavin and vitamin A.

Preparation time 15 minutes
Cooking time 15 minutes
Yields 4 servings
Bulb

Did you know? According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the federal government department responsible for coordinating environmental policies and programs, Canadian milk production only accounts for about 1% of Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    552 Calories

  • Protein

    27 g

  • Carbohydrate

    87 g

  • Fat

    11 g

  • Fibre

    11.6 g

  • Sodium

    501 mg

  • Top 5 nutrients provided by a serving of this recipe

     

    Nutrient and % DV*

  • Calcium

    29 % / 373 mg

  • Vitamin C

    136 %

  • Selenium

    101 %

  • Folate

    99 %

  • Niacin

    79 %

  • * Note: The daily value (DV) is established by Health Canada and corresponds to the daily quantity recommended for each nutrient. The percentage of the daily value (% DV) indicates the proportion of the nutrient provided by a serving of the recipe, in comparison with the quantity recommended.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups (750 mL) fusilli pasta

  • 4 cups (1 L) broccoli florets

  • 1 tsp (5 mL) butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 sweet red pepper, chopped into bite-size pieces

  • 1/2 tsp (2 mL) crushed red chili flakes or to taste

  • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) each salt and fresh ground pepper

  • 2 Tbsp (30 mL) all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups (500 mL) milk

  • 1 can (540 mL) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 cup (250 mL) cooked shredded chicken (optional)

  • 3 Tbsp (45 mL) white wine vinegar

  • 1/2 cup (125 mL) shredded white cheddar

Preparation

  1. In large pot of boiling, lightly salted water, cook pasta according to package directions until tender but firm, adding broccoli 3 minutes before it’s done. Drain and return to pot.
  2. Meanwhile, in large deep nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, red pepper, chili flakes, salt and pepper; cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.
  3. In small bowl, whisk flour into milk; stir into skillet. Add beans. Increase heat to medium-high, bring to simmer, stirring often. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring often, for about 5 minutes or until sauce is thickened. Add pasta mixture, chicken (if desired) and vinegar; stir to coat. Remove from heat and stir in cheese.
Bulb

A diet based mainly on naturally nutritious and minimally processed foods, such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and milk products, is an excellent commitment to your health. This way, you’re giving your body the best possible chance at getting the essential nutrients it needs to function properly.

For more dietitians’ favourite recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

One Pot Indian-Inspired Paneer and Chickpeas

Paneer and chickpeas
Paneer and chickpeas

A flavourful one-pot dish featuring tender paneer and hearty chickpeas simmered in a fragrant, Indian-inspired tomato and spice sauce. Simple to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Preparation time 15 minutes
Cooking time 25 minutes
Yields 4 servings
Bulb

Did you know? According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the federal government department responsible for coordinating environmental policies and programs, Canadian milk production only accounts for about 1% of Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    399 Calories

  • Protein

    26 g

  • Carbohydrate

    32 g

  • Fat

    21 g

  • Fibre

    8.0 g

  • Sodium

    756 mg

  • Top 5 nutrients provided by a serving of this recipe

     

    Nutrient and % DV*

  • Calcium

    38 % / 497 mg

  • Thiamin

    76 %

  • Vitamin C

    74 %

  • Niacin

    58 %

  • Riboflavin

    46 %

  • * Note: The daily value (DV) is established by Health Canada and corresponds to the daily quantity recommended for each nutrient. The percentage of the daily value (% DV) indicates the proportion of the nutrient provided by a serving of the recipe, in comparison with the quantity recommended.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp (30 mL) butter

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) grated fresh gingerroot

  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) garam masala or curry powder

  • 1 can (796 mL) crushed tomatoes

  • 1 can (540 mL) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1 bag (500 g) frozen cauliflower, thawed and chopped into bite-size pieces if large

  • 1/2 cup (125 mL) water

  • 1 tsp (5 mL) salt

  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) whole wheat flour

  • 1 cup (250 mL) milk

  • 1 pkg (350 g) paneer, cut into 1/2-inch (1 cm) cubes

  • 3 cups (750 mL) packed baby spinach

  • 1 cup (250 mL) plain yogurt or plain kefir

Preparation

  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 8 minutes, until softened. Add garlic, ginger and garam masala; sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in tomatoes, chickpeas, cauliflower, water, and salt; bring to a simmer.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk flour into milk; gradually pour into pot while whisking constantly. Simmer until sauce has thickened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add paneer and spinach; stir gently. Cook until paneer is heated through, and spinach is wilted. In a small bowl, whisk yogurt until smooth (if using). Remove pot from heat and stir in yogurt or kefir. Return to stove and heat through.
Bulb

This recipe scores high marks for nutrition. It’s an excellent source of folate, vitamin B6, calcium and vitamin C.

For more dietitians’ favourite recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Mediterranean-Inspired Power Bowl

Power Bowl
Power bowl

A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired power bowl layered with wholesome grains, crisp vegetables, and creamy Havarti cheese for a fresh, satisfying meal packed with flavour.

Preparation time 15 minutes
Yields 4 servings
Bulb

Did you know? Like all food industries, the dairy sector in Canada is regulated at the national level by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. These food safety regulations are in addition to provincial regulations governing dairy-farming practices, as well as the proAction, a mandatory dairy sector quality assurance program.

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    536 Calories

  • Protein

    31 g

  • Carbohydrate

    32 g

  • Fat

    33 g

  • Fibre

    5.2 g

  • Sodium

    615 mg

  • Top 5 nutrients provided by a serving of this recipe

     

    Nutrient and % DV*

  • Calcium

    23 % / 305 mg

  • Selenium

    128 %

  • Vitamin C

    115 %

  • Niacin

    109 %

  • Vitamin B12

    103 %

  • * Note: The daily value (DV) is established by Health Canada and corresponds to the daily quantity recommended for each nutrient. The percentage of the daily value (% DV) indicates the proportion of the nutrient provided by a serving of the recipe, in comparison with the quantity recommended.

Ingredients

  • Dressing

  • 1/3 cup (75 mL) oil

  • 3 tbsp (45 mL) fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tsp (5 mL) dried oregano

  • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) each salt and fresh ground pepper

  • 1 clove garlic, pressed

  • Power Bowl

  • 2 cups (500 mL) cooked quinoa, barley or brown rice

  • 2 cups (500 mL) grape tomatoes, halved

  • 2 cups (500 mL) sliced and halved English cucumber

  • 1 sweet yellow pepper, cut into bite-size pieces

  • 2 cans (each about 6 oz/170 g) water-packed salmon or tuna, drained

  • 1 cup (250 mL) small cubed Havarti cheese or pan fried halloumi

  • 1/4 cup (60 mL) diced red onion

  • 8 pitted Kalamata olives, halved

Preparation

  1. Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, pepper and garlic; set aside.
  2. Power Bowl: Divide quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, yellow pepper, and salmon among 4 bowls. Top with cheese, onion, and olives. Drizzle with dressing.
Bulb

This recipe can help you minimize food waste by using leftovers for a portable lunch!

For more dietitians’ favourite recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

One Pot Barley and Vegetables

Soup
Barley and vegetables

This one-pot, nutrient-packed meal is ideal for busy households. Less clean up means more time to eat as a family, an important part of healthful (and happy) eating. Make a double batch and freeze half for another time when you need a meal in a hurry.

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Powerful pairing! The combination of animal and plant proteins in this dish provides complementary nutrients that contribute to good health. For example, milk provides easily absorbable calcium while chickpeas provide fibre, two important nutrients that most of us are missing in our diet.

Preparation time 5 minutes
Cooking time 40 minutes
Yields 4 to 6 servings
Bulb

Did you Know? Canadian milk is produced with some of the world’s strictest standards. Canadian dairy farmers are vigilant in producing milk of the highest quality, without the use of artificial growth hormones and follow the regulation to ensure that the milk you drink is exempt of antibiotics.

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    362 Calories

  • Protein

    16 g

  • Carbohydrate

    57 g

  • Fat

    9 g

  • Fibre

    12.3 g

  • Sodium

    493 mg

  • Top 5 nutrients provided by a serving of this recipe

     

    Nutrient and % DV*

  • Calcium

    18 % / 234 mg

  • Thiamin

    57 %

  • Niacin

    45 %

  • Selenium

    38 %

  • Riboflavin

    32 %

  • * Note: The daily value (DV) is established by Health Canada and corresponds to the daily quantity recommended for each nutrient. The percentage of the daily value (% DV) indicates the proportion of the nutrient provided by a serving of the recipe, in comparison with the quantity recommended.

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp (5 mL) butter

  • 1 cup (250 mL) pearl barley

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups (500 mL) milk

  • 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) no salt added vegetable broth

  • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) each salt and fresh ground pepper

  • 1 can (398 mL) diced tomatoes

  • 2 cups (500 mL) frozen green peas, thawed

  • 1/3 cup (75 mL) sundried tomato pesto

  • 1 can (540 mL) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • Toppings: crumbled feta cheese, chopped green onion, crushed red chili flakes, and fresh lemon juice

Preparation

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add barley and garlic, cook for 2 minutes. Stir in milk, broth, salt, pepper and tomatoes; bring to boil. Cover and transfer to oven; bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 5 more minutes or until barley is tender but firm.
  3. Stir in peas, pesto and chickpeas. Serve topped with cheese, green onions, chili flakes, and a big squeeze of lemon.
Bulb

This hearty dish features foods grown and produced in Canada, including barley, milk and cheese. Choosing local means you’re minimizing your diet’s environmental footprint while eating fresher, more flavourful foods and supporting the local economy. Triple win!

For more dietitians’ favourite recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada

Creamy Enchilada Soup

Soup
Soup

This recipe is an excellent source of calcium, a critical nutrient that most of us don’t get enough of daily. The complete protein and highly absorbable calcium from the milk and cheese in this soup work together to help build and maintain strong bones and muscles.

Preparation time 15 minutes
Cooking time about 30 minutes
Yields 6 servings
Bulb

Did you know? Milk is a naturally nutritious and minimally processed food.

Nutritional information

  • Energy

    397 Calories

  • Protein

    20 g

  • Carbohydrate

    55 g

  • Fat

    13 g

  • Fibre

    11.3 g

  • Sodium

    717 mg

  • Top 5 nutrients provided by a serving of this recipe

     

    Nutrient and % DV*

  • Calcium

    33 % / 432 mg

  • Thiamin

    92 %

  • Vitamin C

    73 %

  • Vitamin A

    63 %

  • Niacin

    47 %

  • * Note: The daily value (DV) is established by Health Canada and corresponds to the daily quantity recommended for each nutrient. The percentage of the daily value (% DV) indicates the proportion of the nutrient provided by a serving of the recipe, in comparison with the quantity recommended.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 1 large sweet red pepper, chopped (about 1-1/2 cups/375 mL)

  • 2 cups (500 mL) chopped and peeled sweet potato

  • 1 to 2 tbsp (15 to 30 mL) chili powder

  • 1 tsp (5 mL) each dried oregano and cumin

  • 1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) salt

  • 1/4 cup (60 mL) tomato paste

  • 1 can (796 mL) diced tomatoes with juice

  • 1 can (540 mL) black beans, rinsed and drained

  • 1 cup (250 mL) water

  • 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) frozen corn kernels, thawed

  • 2 tbsp (30 mL) whole wheat flour

  • 2-1/2 cups (625 mL) milk

  • 1-1/4 cup (300 mL) shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided

  • 1 large jalapeño, diced

  • Optional Garnishes: Cilantro and lime wedges

Preparation

  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, red pepper, sweet potato, chili powder (to taste), oregano, cumin, and salt; cook, stirring for 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste to coat. Stir in tomatoes, beans, and water. Cover and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat, and simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
  2. Remove 2 cups (500 mL) of the soup and purée until smooth; return to pot. Stir in corn and bring to a simmer. In a medium bowl, whisk flour into milk; gradually pour into pot while whisking constantly. Cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat; stir in 1/2 cup (125 mL) of the cheese until melted.
  3. Ladle soup into warm bowls. Sprinkle each serving with jalapeño, remaining cheese, cilantro (if using), and lime wedges (if using).
Bulb

This yummy soup gets top marks for taste AND nutrition – it’s an excellent source of vitamins A and C!

For more dietitians’ favourite recipes, visit Dairy Farmers of Canada