Healthy Party Dishes
Greek cucumber dip with pita triangles1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and grated1 cup plain lowfat yogurt2 cloves minced fresh garlic2 tablespoons chopped mint1 teaspoon olive oil4 whole wheat pita pockets1. Mix grated cucumber, yogurt, garlic and mint in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Pour into serving bowl; top with olive oil. Refrigerate until ready to serve.2. Cut pita pockets into wedges and bake in preheated 350 degree oven until warm, about 5 minutes. Serve pita triangles with cucumber dip on the side. Use any leftover mint for garnish for the dip.Serves 8. Each serving: 95 calories, 1.5 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat, 2 mg cholesterol, 175 mg sodium, 17 g carbohydrate, 5 g protein., 2.5 g fiber.Holiday Apple Cranberry Compote4 baking apples, cored and cut in wedges1 cup fresh/frozen cranberries1 cup Splenda1 teaspoon cinnamonpinch clovespinch nutmeg1. Place ingredients in microwave container and cover. Microwave on full power for 8 to 10 minutes or until apples are soft. Stir and serve warm.2. This compote looks nice when served in a fancy bowl and garnished with a stick of cinnamon. It can be used by itself, with turkey or as a dessert. If using as a dessert, we like to top with a dollop of light whipped cream.Serves 8. Each 1/3 cup serving: 50 calories, 0 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 6 mg sodium, 13 g carbohydrate, 2.5 g fiber, 0 g protein.There are more recipes at www.foodandhealth.comOn the Run Healthful OptionsMany of these items are ready-made in most grocery store produce sections or deli counters. You can buy a healthy dish that requires little or no preparation. Here are a few ideas:• Vegetable platter• Fruit salad• Cinnamon apple wedges with vanilla yogurt “dip”• Large festive tossed salad - use ready-cut lettuce, grape tomatoes, shredded carrots and dried cranberries• Baked pita chips with salsa or hummusChoices to Avoid:These items are high in fat and calories - so stay clear or be careful about portions!• Fatty dips• Cheese• Fried foods• Chips• Fatty meats• Pastries and pastry-wrapped items• Quiche
