November is National Pancreatic Cancer Month and there are foods and recipes we can incorporate into our daily lives to fight this disease. Recognized as one of the most deadly cancers, pancreatic cancer is hard to detect; however, we can do our part by maintaining healthy diets. As you consider various healthy diets, try one of these low-calorie cancer-fighting recipes.

Chicken Breast with Ricotta and Parmesan

Ingredients:
6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 1/2 oz each)
1 cup low-fat Ricotta cheese
1/2 cup Yukon gold potato, cooked, mashed
2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon each: parsley, marjoram, tarragon, finely minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 quarts low sodium chicken

Preparation:
• Make pocket in each chicken breast by slicing lengthwise through each portion; set aside
• Combine Ricotta cheese, potato, Parmesan cheese and herbs; mix until blended.
• Place about ¼ cup of stuffing mixture into each chicken breast.
• Roll each breast into a log and wrap with plastic wrap, sealing each end to form a “sausage.”
• Bring chicken broth to a boil; reduce heat to simmer. Place chicken breasts in broth and gently simmer until firm, about 20 minutes.
• Remove chicken breasts from broth.
• Bring to a boil and reduce to 4 cups.
• Remove plastic wrap from each chicken breast. Slice and serve in broth.

Broccoli Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 cup broccoli florets, lightly steamed or microwaved
2 cups cooked and well-drained angel hair pasta (or other pasta)
Salt to taste
Couple of pinches of crushed pepper flakes (or to taste)
1/8 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese

Preparation:
• Heat oil in medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until lightly golden, stirring often (about 1-2 minutes). Add broccoli and pasta and sauté, stirring occasionally for 2-3 minutes.
• Add salt and red pepper flakes to taste.
• Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Turn off heat and let rest a minute before serving.
Eating healthy does not have to be boring or flavorless. You can still enjoy a delicious meal by using foods rich in vitamins known for fighting cancer and preparing them in a healthy manner. Also, if you choose to dine out, you can order healthy meals.
This Thanksgiving you can enjoy a healthy meal at Seldom Blues, which will be hosting a Thanksgiving Day brunch from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For reservations, please call (313) 567-7301.
Detroit-based Southern Hospitality Restaurant Group owns and operates Seldom Blues Restaurant and Jazz Supper Club in the Renaissance Center, Detroit’s Breakfast House & Grill @ Merchants Row in the heart of Campus Martius, and the Motown Soul Food Café in in New Center.