Beef Tenderloin & Peppercorn Brandy Sauce

Is there a more classic special dinner than steak (especially accompanied by a flavorful peppercorn brandy sauce!) Not only impressive and absolutely delicious, but super fast to whip up. Be sure to try this for your next important occasion!

Ingredients (serves 2)

• 2 6-oz beef tenderloin steaks
• 10.5 oz beef broth, double strength
• 1 oz Calvados apple brandy
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 shallot, finely minced1 tsp butter (not margarine)
• 1 tsp cracked green or black peppercorns
• 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp chives, minced

Let steaks come to room temperature (about 15 minutes). Coat both sides of steaks with coarsely ground black pepper and firmly press them in.

Melt butter over medium heat in nonstick or cast iron skillet. Brown the steaks well, about 5 minutes on the first side and 3 minutes on the second depending on thickness. Remove steaks to a heated plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Add brandy, swirling to deglaze the pan and dissolve flavor bits. Flaming the brandy is only recommended for experienced cooks and without children in the area. Add beef broth, shallot, green peppercorns, mushrooms and heat on high until reduced 50%. Check for seasoning, add additional black pepper or salt if needed.

Transfer steaks to warm plates, pour 1 tablespoon of brandy sauce over and top with mushrooms and chives. Serve and enjoy with someone special!

Nutritional Info (per serving)
Calories: 370
Carbs: 1 grams
Protein: 49 grams
Fat: 13 grams

Kimkins Chicken Cordon Bleu

Perfect for entertaining or a special dinner! Fast, delicious and ready from start to finish in less an hour!

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 4 oz sliced lean ham
• 4 oz low fat Swiss cheese
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• salt & pepper
• olive oil nonstick spray
  

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray baking dish with nonstick spray.

Slit chicken breasts through the middle lengthwise to make a pocket. Sprinkle thyme evenly over 4 ham slices and top with Swiss cheese. Roll up ham/cheese and stuff into chicken pocket.

Spray top of chicken with olive oil and press parmesan cheese on one side only. Place plain side down in baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent early browning. Bake for 35 minutes, remove foil and bake 10 minutes more or until cheese is lightly browned.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Info (per serving)
Calories: 297
Carbs: 1 gram
Protein: 51 grams
Fat: 8 grams