Planning a Delightful, Dairy-Rich Brunch

Windows are open, flowers are in bloom and decks are being cleaned. Spring is here and with spring, comes brunches. Whether attending one as a guest or hosting a brunch of your own, you can prepare delicious and healthy dishes utilizing the nine essential nutrients and great taste found in dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt.

A standard dish at any brunch is a quiche. Many of us worry about the heavy calories and fat found in this Southern dish due to the crust. No need to worry with Crustless Spectacular Spinach and Artichoke Quiche. Featuring low-fat cheese and 2% milk, this quiche is full of calcium, potassium for a healthy heart, vitamin D, PLUS high-quality protein.

Decorating can be half the battle when entertaining. No need to purchase a fancy centerpiece when your food can do it for you. Create a Centerpiece Yogurt Bar for an elegant display that will wow your guests’ eyes and taste buds. Greek yogurt, which has twice as much protein as regular yogurt, creates a delicate and delicious base. Berries of all shapes, sizes and sweetness add fiber and color to the decor.

This spring, give your brunch a dairy punch that is sure to leave guest wanting more.

Crustless Spectacular Spinach and Artichoke Quiche

Ingredients:

• 1 package of frozen artichoke hearts, thawed and chopped
• 1 package of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 4 eggs, whisked
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup 2% milk
• 1/2 onion chopped
• 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Line a 12-muffin tray pan with muffin tins. Spray each with non-stick cooing spray.
3. Combine all ingredients into a large bowl.
4. Evenly pour mixture into 12 muffin tins.
5. Place in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
6. Remove and serve.

Shelly Marie Redmond, MS, RD, LDN is a registered dietitian, founder of Skinny Louisiana and a nutrition expert for KTAL NBC 6 Shreveport. For more information Facebook.com/SkinnyLouisiana or Tweet @ShellyMarieRD