“‘Go Red for Women’ is a wonderful opportunity to educate the public about heart health and the prevention of heart disease,” says Nancy Chagares, senior vice-president of merchandising and marketing for Jewel-Osco. “It is our privilege to participate in this effort to empower women and encourage them to make healthy choices that can prolong their lives.”
As an added effort to curb the effects of heart disease on African-American women, Jewel-Osco and the American Heart Association have introduced recipes like Red and Green Bell Pepper Boats (see below). Hailing these unique and health-conscious dishes is Jewel-Osco dietitian, Kim Kirchherr, MS, RD, LDN, CDE.
“We know healthy eating is a year-round priority. Jewel-Osco is proud to join forces with the American Heart Association to raise awareness about heart disease,” Kirchherr says. “Making small changes including fruits and vegetables each day can add up to big health benefits both today and in the future.” –gavin godfrey
Red and Green Bell Pepper Boats Recipe
Flavorful toasted almonds and zesty lemon-pepper contrast nicely with crisp bell pepper pieces in this festive appetizer.
1 medium green bell pepper
1 medium red bell pepper
1/4 cup sliced almonds
4 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon salt-free lemon pepper seasoning blend
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise; discard the stems, ribs, and seeds. Cut each half into six pieces. Arrange the pieces with the skin side down on a decorative serving platter. Set aside.
In a medium skillet, dry-roast the almonds over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Transfer 1 tablespoon of the almonds to a small plate and reserve for garnishing. Process the remaining almonds in a food processor or blender for 15 to 20 seconds, or until finely ground.
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, lemon pepper seasoning blend, and lemon juice with an electric mixer for 1 to 2 minutes, or until creamy. Add the ground almonds and beat for 10 seconds, or until combined.
Spoon the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a wide star or round tip. Or snip the corner off a resealable plastic bag (a plastic freezer bag works well) and spoon in the mixture. Pipe about 1 teaspoon of the mixture onto each bell pepper piece. Garnish with the sliced almonds.
