(Family Features) Dinnertime dishes loaded with nutrients help keep loved ones connected while refueling after busy days spent at work and school. Dairy foods – key ingredients in many at-home meals – provide nutrients for people of all ages to grow and maintain stronger bodies and minds.
However, some bodies are unable to break down the sugar found in milk, known as lactose, which causes an upset stomach and a heavy, bloated feeling. Rather than avoiding dairy and missing out on beneficial nutrients, people with lactose intolerance can enjoy real dairy products that are naturally low in or don’t contain lactose without the stomachache with foods like:
* Lactose-free milk, which is real milk with the same 13 essential nutrients as regular milk
* Hard and aged cheeses, such as cheddar, colby, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and Swiss
* Yogurt with live and active cultures, which help break down lactose, making it easier to digest
This easy-to-make meal offers lactose intolerance-friendly options for families seeking to keep milk on the menu. Because all require an hour or less in the kitchen, they provide quick solutions for those hectic schedules without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Visit MilkMeansMore.org to find more delicious dishes that fit a lactose intolerant meal plan.
Chicken, Spinach and Feta Casserole
Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed
3 eggs, slightly beaten
2 cups cottage cheese
1 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 teaspoons dried minced onion
1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Preheat oven to 350 F.
Place spinach in a colander. Use the back of a large spoon or rubber spatula to press moisture from spinach.
In a large bowl, combine spinach, eggs, cottage cheese, chicken, feta cheese, flour, butter, onion, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Spoon into greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish. Bake, uncovered, 45-50 minutes, or until set near the center (160 F). Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan
