Kids usually prefer things as plain as possible. This can be very trying if you are cooking please two palates. Here's a solution; prepare food plain for the kids and jazz it up for adult using the following simple ideas.
~ Broccoli: Stir in a tablespoon of Chinese oyster sauce, or toss with a tablespoon of frozen orange juice concentrate.
~ Spinach: Stir in chopped artichoke hearts or pine nuts.
~ Rice: Toss with chopped parsley, stir in toasted pecans, add chopped green onions, or stir in currants or raisins.
~ Asparagus: Toss with white wine, Worcestershire sauce, and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
~ Noodles or Pasta: Sprinkle with caraway seeds, toss with fat-free Italian dressing, or stir in low-fat sour cream, sun-dried tomato bits, and ripe olive slices.
~ Fruit Cup: Add a splash or liqueur, sprinkle on toasted nuts or granola, or toss with a bit of honey, lime juice, and grated lime rind.
~ Mashed Potatoes: Stir in a clove of mashed roasted garlic, add fresh or freeze-dried chopped chives, dust with nutmeg, stir in ranch-style salad-dressing mix, stir in prepared horseradish, or add garlic or onion powder.
~ Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Toss with salsa or picante sauce, and then add a squeeze of lime juice.
~ Green Beans: Toss with Dijon mustard, stir in a clove of mashed roasted garlic, or add pearl onions, roasted red bell peppers, or toasted nuts.
~ Whole-kernel Corn: Add a sprinkle of cumin, toss with sauteed onion and/or chopped bell peppers, or toss with chopped tomatoes, and add a vinaigrette dressing.
~ Carrots: Sprinkle with dill, toss with honey mustard, or splash with bourbon.
~ Coleslaw: Sprinkle with curry powder, stir in drained pineapple tidbits and peanuts, add a teaspoon of prepared horseradish, or serve in a tomato cup.
Cooking Light Special Edition Quick & Easy Weeknights Submitted By DIANE LAZARUS On 11-13-95
