Smoked Meat and Cheese Sticks
This Smoked Meat and Cheese Sticks recipe offers a delicious and health-conscious twist on a classic comfort food. With heart-healthy ingredients like low-sodium smoked meat and reduced-fat cheddar cheese, it’s perfect for those looking to indulge while maintaining a balanced diet. The combination of Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and minced onion adds a flavorful kick packed with antioxidants. Easy to prepare and bake, these sticks are ideal for a quick, wholesome snack. Enjoy them hot for a satisfying, nutritious treat!
Ingredients:
– 2 tubes crescent dough sheets
– 1 lb. deli-sliced smoked meat (low-sodium, nitrate-free options recommended for heart health)
– 8 cheddar cheese sticks (opt for reduced-fat or organic to support a balanced diet)
– ¼ cup butter, melted (consider using grass-fed butter for healthy fats)
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (low-sodium for better blood pressure management)
– ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard (mustard can support metabolism and is low-calorie)
– ½ Tbsp dried minced onion or onion powder (rich in antioxidants)
– ½ Tbsp poppy seeds (a source of dietary fiber and essential minerals)
Instructions:
1. Prepare for Wellness: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy clean-up and minimize excess oils.
2. Balance the Base: Roll out the crescent dough sheets and cut each into 4 pieces, resulting in 8 pieces total. Crescent dough can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
3. Smoky & Smart Choices: Evenly distribute the smoked meat slices across all 8 dough pieces. For a heart-healthy twist, use low-sodium, nitrate-free smoked meat. Place a cheddar cheese stick on top of the smoked meat on each piece—consider reduced-fat cheese for a lighter option.
4. Seal in Nutrition: Fold in the ends of each piece of dough and roll them up to seal the filling inside, locking in the nutrients and flavors.
5. Arrange & Anticipate: Place the prepared sticks on the baking sheet. Get ready to enjoy a treat that supports your well-being.
6. Boost with Flavor & Benefits: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried minced onion or onion powder, and poppy seeds. This blend not only enhances taste but also adds a dose of healthy fats, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.
7. Bake for Health: Brush this butter mixture over each stick. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown, indicating they’re ready to be enjoyed as part of a health-conscious meal.
8. Serve & Savor: Serve hot and enjoy these delicious smoked meat and cheese sticks, knowing they’re crafted with both taste and health in mind!
This health-focused twist on a classic recipe is perfect for those mindful of their wellness while indulging in delicious comfort food.
