Taking care of our family and others includes finding ways to feed them good nutritious meals, and that can be challenging. What are you going to do when they only eat familiar childhood vegetables: green beans, peas, corn, and potatoes? Green beans were often cooked in bacon grease and loaded with chunks of bacon. The peas and potatoes may have been swimming in a rich, creamy white sauce and butter. Skip the sauces and you’re left with a simple dish that can age quickly.
Let’s face it, canned greens night after night can be boring at best and not nearly as nutritious. Personally, I prefer fresh or frozen vegetables; however, time and budget constraints often lead me to the pantry to grab a canned vegetable and quickly heat it up for dinner. Here are a couple of ways to dress up those simple veggies without adding a lot of calories and fat.
ITALIAN STYLE GREEN BEANS
Drain and rinse two cans of green beans; Add a can of chopped Italian tomatoes; heat well and serve.
Now that was easy, right? Experiment with other additions and you will be amazed at how a simple can of green beans will look more attractive and taste great.
For a more festive meal; Try replacing the traditional calorie-laden green bean casserole with this recipe.
HOLIDAY VEGETABLE CUPS
Drain two cans of green beans, rinse them, and heat them in a skillet with a small amount of olive oil. Season to taste – experiment with basil, dill, or other herbs.
Trim the crusts of eight slices of whole wheat bread, a little butter. Gently push the center of the bread slices down into a muffin pan. This will form a pocket with four corners sticking out. Lightly toast in the oven. Scoop out a couple tablespoons of hot green beans and top with bell pepper, sliced almonds, diced onion, a dash of grated or Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
Many housewives are planning their meals around what the market has in its sale announcements this week. Often times, you can also find low-sodium and low-sugar products for sale. When you do, stock up on those. Otherwise, most vegetables can be rinsed before heating or added to a recipe without losing flavor. The key is to find nutritious foods that will actually be eaten.
Bottom line: be brave, experiment. Do your best to make mealtime a special time with your family while enjoying the generosity God has provided. Let me hear your ideas. Enjoy!
Susie kinslow adams