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Food and Beverage

Spooky Snacks that Make Halloween Pop

From watching scary movies to dressing up as ghouls and goblins, spooky season means it’s time to pop up your loved ones’ favorite snacks for a ghostly good time.

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(Family Features) From watching scary movies to dressing up as ghouls and goblins, spooky season means it’s time to pop up your loved ones’ favorite snacks for a ghostly good time. Before heading out to trick-or-treat, gather your minions in the kitchen for some family-friendly fun crafting these haunting yet tasty treats.

Throughout October, you can honor National Popcorn Poppin’ Month with eerie, delicious eats like Spooky Popcorn Spider Web, Green Halloween Zombies, Witchy Popcorn Balls and Popcorn Caramel Apples that add festive fun to the Halloween excitement.

As a perfect ingredient in treats of all types, popcorn is beloved for its seed-to-snack simplicity as a non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, sugar-free snack that’s naturally low in fat and calories. Add in its irresistible smell, taste and versatility, and it’s easy to see why it pairs so well with spooky celebrations.

Find more Halloween treats at popcorn.org.

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Spooky Popcorn Spider Web

Yield: 1 spider web

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 8 cups mini marshmallows, divided
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 9 cups popped popcorn, divided
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, divided
  • black string licorice
  • candy eyes
  1. Line round pizza pan with parchment paper; set aside. In large saucepan over low heat, melt butter; stir in 5 cups marshmallows, stirring constantly, 3-4 minutes, or until completely melted. Stir in vanilla. Remove from heat. Stir in 8 cups popcorn until coated. Spread onto prepared pizza pan in irregular round shape, about 1-inch thick, to resemble spider web. Refrigerate about 15 minutes, or until firm.
  2. In microwave, melt remaining marshmallows about 20 seconds, or until melted. Using spatula, string strands of melted marshmallow over popcorn spider web to create cobweb effect.
  3. In heatproof bowl set over saucepan of hot (not boiling) water, melt 3/4 cup chocolate chips; cool slightly. In large bowl of remaining popcorn, pour chocolate over popcorn, folding gently to coat. Spread mixture on waxed paper-lined baking sheet, separating into eight small clusters. Affix two candy eyes to each popcorn cluster. Refrigerate 10-15 minutes, or until set.
  4. Melt remaining chocolate chips. Cut licorice into 1-inch lengths. Using small spoon, dab circles of chocolate onto spider web. Affix chocolate-coated popcorn onto chocolate circles. Affix licorice lengths to chocolate popcorn clusters to resemble spider legs.
  5. Refrigerate 15 minutes, or until set. To serve, cut into smaller pieces.
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Witchy Popcorn Balls

Yield: 8 popcorn balls

  • 16 chocolate wafer cookies
  • nonstick cooking spray
  • 3 quarts popped popcorn
  • 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine
  • 3 cups miniature marshmallows
  • 3 tablespoons (1/2 of 3-ounce box) lime gelatin dessert mix
  • green food color (optional)
  • 3/4 cup chocolate chips
  • licorice strings
  • 8 chocolate ice cream cones
  • orange sugar sprinkles, placed in small dish
  • jelly beans
  • candy corns
  1. Spread sheet of waxed or parchment paper over work surface and place wafer cookies on it.
  2. Spray large mixing bowl with nonstick cooking spray and place popcorn inside.
  3. In medium saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Stir in marshmallows and gelatin powder until marshmallows are melted and mixture is smooth. Adjust color with 1-2 drops food color, if desired. Pour mixture over popcorn and mix until coated.
  4. Spray hands with nonstick cooking spray and press firmly to form into eight balls. Place balls on eight wafer cookies. Press candy decorations into popcorn balls to form “eyes,” “nose” and “mouth.”
  5. In small, microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips, covered, 10 seconds. Stir to aid melting. Repeat as needed until chocolate is melted and smooth.
  6. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon melted chocolate on top of each popcorn ball. Press licorice strings into chocolate to form “hair.”
  7. Dip cone edges into melted chocolate then orange sugar sprinkles. Place on remaining wafer cookies to form “witches’ hats.” Place hats on popcorn balls. Allow chocolate to set about 45 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve or seal individually in plastic wrap.
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Green Halloween Zombies

Yield: about 7 pieces

  • 2 1/2 quarts popped popcorn
  • 6 tablespoons butter or margarine
  • 3 cups mini marshmallows
  • 4 tablespoons lime gelatin powder
  • red gum balls
  • candy corn
  • flat green candy strips or fruit leather
  • green sugar sprinkles
  1. Place popcorn in large bowl; set aside.
  2. In medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir marshmallows into butter until melted. Stir in gelatin powder until evenly colored.
  3. Pour melted mixture over popcorn and stir until evenly coated. With buttered hands, shape popcorn into seven ovals.
  4. Flatten one oval slightly and squeeze one end to form “skull” shape. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining ovals.
  5. To decorate: Press two gumballs into each skull to form “eyes.” Press candy corn into skull to form “teeth.” Use scissors to trim candy strips and press into top for “hair.” Sprinkle with sugar sprinkles.
  6. Allow “zombies” to set about 20 minutes before wrapping individually in plastic wrap or serve immediately.
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Popcorn Caramel Apples

Yield: 4 apples

  • 1 quart freshly popped popcorn
  • 1 package (9 1/2 ounces, 35 total) caramels, unwrapped
  • 1/4 cup light cream or half-and-half
  • 4 lollipop sticks or wooden candy apple sticks
  • 4 apples
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • sugar sprinkles
  • decorative ribbon (optional)
  1. Place popcorn in large bowl; set aside. Place sheet of waxed paper on work surface.
  2. In small saucepan over medium-low heat, heat caramels and cream. Stir frequently until caramels are melted and cream is blended into caramels.
  3. Push one stick into apple center and dip into caramel. Spoon caramel over apple to coat. Repeat with remaining apples
  4. Place caramel-coated apple in bowl of popcorn and press popcorn onto caramel to cover. Place apple on waxed paper to set; repeat with remaining apples.
  5. In small, resealable plastic bag, microwave chocolate chips 10 seconds and press chips to aid melting. Repeat, heating at 10-second intervals, until chips are completely melted. Cut small corner off bag and squeeze chocolate onto each apple, allowing chocolate to drip down sides. Sprinkle with sugar sprinkles.
  6. Tie bow to each apple stick, if desired. To serve, cut apples into slices.

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SOURCE:
Popcorn Board

At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.

Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/food-and-beverage

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    Rebecca Jo is a mother of four and is a creative soul from Phoenix, Arizona, who also enjoys new adventures. Rebecca Jo has a passion for the outdoors and indulges in activities like camping, fishing, hunting and riding roller coasters. She is married to Rod Washington View all posts

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Rebecca Jo is a mother of four and is a creative soul from Phoenix, Arizona, who also enjoys new adventures. Rebecca Jo has a passion for the outdoors and indulges in activities like camping, fishing, hunting and riding roller coasters. She is married to Rod Washington

Food and Beverage

Bring Warmth to Winter with a Filling Family Dinner

This winter, enhance family dinners with healthy recipes featuring sweetpotatoes, a nutritious superfood. Try the Cheesy Sweetpotato Casserole for a comforting, flavorful meal that supports overall health.

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Dinner

Bring Warmth to Winter with a Filling Family Dinner

(Family Features) Hearty, comforting foods that go perfectly with cold weather may be some of your family’s favorites, but if all those filling meals are starting to (literally) weigh you down, it’s time for a better-for-you spin.

Add a superfood to your winter menu for cold-weather dishes you can feel good about serving to your loved ones. Sweetpotatoes, known as a “diabetes superfood” by the American Diabetes Association, are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, all of which are good for overall health. They’re a natural sweetener for that “sweet” flavor you crave without the added sugar, making them a perfect addition to this Cheesy Sweetpotato Casserole made with sweetpotato puree, warm spices and ground turkey.

A healthy and easy weeknight dinner, this creative spin on a classic casserole takes advantage of sweetpotatoes’ sweet, savory versatility. They enhance both flavor and nutrition content in simple and elevated recipes alike. Plus, they can be cooked and prepared in several ways, such as on the stove, baked, microwaved, grilled, slow cooked or, in this case, boiled and pureed.

Visit ncsweetpotatoes.com to discover more ways to cook better-for-you family meals this winter. https://www.youtube.com/embed/NpMfx1ZUyBo?si=EZZcgfdjC5sFWSNb&controls=0

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Cheesy Sweetpotato Casserole
Recipe courtesy of the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission
Servings: 6

  • 1          medium North Carolina sweetpotato
  • 16        ounces shell pasta (or any kind of noodle)

Ground Turkey:

  • 1          tablespoon olive oil
  • 1          pound lean ground turkey
  • 1/2       medium yellow onion, minced
  • 1          teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8       teaspoon salt
  • 1/8       teaspoon ground pepper
  • 1/4       teaspoon powdered mustard

Cheese Sauce:

  • 3          tablespoons tomato puree
  • 1/2       cup chicken broth (or any kind of broth)
  • 1          cup shredded colby jack cheese, plus additional for topping (optional)
  • salt, to taste
  •             nonstick cooking spray
  • fresh parsley, for garnish
  1. Peel sweetpotato and chop into 1-inch cubes. Place in pot and cover with water. Bring to boil over high heat. Cook 13-15 minutes until sweetpotatoes are tender. Drain and let cool 2-3 minutes then puree in food processor or blender.
  2. Bring large pot of water to boil. Add shell pasta. Cook until slightly harder than al dente as it will continue to cook in oven.
  3. Strain pasta, rinse with cold water and set aside.
  4. To make ground turkey: Heat large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil. When olive oil is fragrant, add ground turkey. Break turkey into small pieces. Mix in onion, garlic powder, salt, ground pepper and powdered mustard; cook 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  5. To make cheese sauce: Heat oven to 375 F and place sweetpotato puree in blender or food processor with tomato puree, chicken broth, 1 cup shredded cheese and salt, to taste. Blend until combined and sauce is smooth.
  6. Spray 9-by-13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place noodles, ground turkey and sweetpotato sauce in casserole dish and mix until coated in sweetpotato cheese sauce. Sprinkle with additional shredded cheese, if desired, and bake 15 minutes.
  7. Remove, let cool 10 minutes and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

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SOURCE:
North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission


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Food and Beverage

A How-To Guide for Deep Cleaning Your Grill

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Grill

(Family Features) A clean grill can enhance the flavor of your food, making regular grill maintenance an essential part of your outdoor cooking routine.

Grills, especially those exposed to the elements, can accumulate dirt, rust and food residue that can affect performance and safety. Plus, residual char and grease can impart unwanted flavors and even lead to flare-ups.

Once you’ve gathered the right tools – a sturdy grill brush with stainless steel bristles, a scraper, a bucket of soapy water, microfiber cloths and grill cleaner or degreaser – consult this step-by-step guide to keep your grill in pristine condition, ensuring delicious meals every time.

  1. Preheat the grill for 15 minutes to loosen any stuck-on residue then turn it off and let it cool slightly.
  2. Ensure the gas supply is turned off before cleaning.
  3. Remove the grates and scrub them thoroughly with a grill brush and warm, soapy water. Rinse and let dry.
  4. Clean burners by wiping them with a damp cloth.
  5. Scrape the inside of the grill to remove any debris and use a vacuum to collect loose dirt and ash.
  6. Wipe down the exterior of the grill with a microfiber cloth and grill cleaner.
  7. Reassemble the grill once all parts are dry and give it a final wipe down.

In between deep cleanings, remember to clean your grill grates immediately after cooking while they are still warm to remove food particles and grease. Find more tips for the grill and beyond at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

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Food and Beverage

Flavorful Snacks Packed with Lean Protein

Cooking flavorful and nutritious meals can enhance health and happiness. Following Mintel’s trends, popular flavors include sweet, sour, smoky, and spicy. Quick recipes like Tuna Stuffed Avocado and Chili Lime Tuna Dip promote healthy eating for families.

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lean protein

(Family Features) Living a happier, healthier life often begins in the kitchen. From lunches on the go to sit-down family meals, keeping flavor at the center of your meal planning is key to maintaining healthy habits.

Based on Mintel’s 2025 Global Food and Drink Trends, experts predict that sweet, sour, smoky and spicy flavors will continue to rise in popularity among families in the United States this year. Show your family how much you care with delicious and nutritious dishes that don’t skimp on flavor. After all, it’s easier to stick to healthy eating when you find joy in the foods you share.

Next time you’re at the grocery store, stock up on pantry staples that deliver flavor and nutrition – without extra time in the kitchen. Whether you’re grabbing a snack on your way out the door or looking for ways to add protein to your next meal, Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Tuna Packets are convenient and flavorful, delivering key nutrients.

Each packet is 100 calories or less and ready to eat with high-quality, responsibly sourced protein made with MSC-certified tuna, allowing you to dive into a world of deliciously seasoned, lean protein.

Your go-to wild caught tuna paired with the iconic blend of 18 herbs and spices, Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Light Tuna Packet with Old Bay Seasoning is a match made in seafood heaven. Perfect for when you’re on the go, the unique combination of flavor, convenience and value helps fight that pesky midday hump, recover from a tough workout or reminisce about a favorite childhood recipe.

For a quick bite when you’re looking for an easy solution, this Tuna Stuffed Avocado recipe is simple yet satisfying and full of flavor. The protein from the tuna and healthy fat from the avocado help to power you through your day and keep you feeling satiated longer. Now on shelves, you can enjoy lean protein with a mix of classic seafood seasoning in recipes like this one.

With the help of the flavor experts at McCormick, Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Tuna Packet with Chili Lime is a convenient protein-packed snack. The joyful zing of lime and chili spice takes this next recipe to another level and can help add a burst of flavor to any meal.

If you’re hosting a crowd or preparing a snack for loved ones, Better-For-You Chili Lime Tuna 7-Layer Dip lets you indulge in fun recipes without ditching health goals. For an extra nutritious touch, serve with chopped vegetables.

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Make mouthwatering flavor the right decision for your body and mind with additional better-for-you recipe ideas at ChickenOfTheSea.com.

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Tuna Stuffed Avocado

Total time: 5 minutes
Servings: 2

  • 1 packet (2 1/2 ounces) Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Light Tuna with Old Bay Seasoning
  • 1/4 cup whole kernel cooked corn
  • 1 tablespoon minced parsley
  • 1 avocado
  • lemon wedges, for serving
  1. In bowl, combine tuna, corn and minced parsley.
  2. Halve avocado and carefully remove seed.
  3. Divide tuna mixture between avocado halves.
  4. Serve with lemon wedges.
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Better-For-You Chili Lime Tuna 7-Layer Dip

Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 10

  • 15 ounces canned beans (pinto, black, red, etc.), drained
  • 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup guacamole
  • 1 cup pico de gallo or salsa
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 2 tablespoons low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 packets (2 1/2 ounces each) Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Light Tuna with McCormick Chili Lime
  • sliced or chopped jalapenos or Serrano chilies (optional)
  • lime wedges, for serving
  • vegetables or tortilla chips, for serving
  1. In 2-quart casserole dish, layer beans in single layer.
  2. Add remaining layers: Greek yogurt, guacamole, pico de gallo or salsa, black olives, cheese and tuna.
  3. Add additional layer of sliced jalapenos or Serrano chilies, if desired.
  4. Serve dip with tortilla chips or sliced vegetables.

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SOURCE:
Chicken of the Sea


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