2004 Ezines...

Pasta: It's Not Fattening! Pasta is not fattening. A 2-ounce serving (1 cup cooked) of dry pasta, such as spaghetti, contains just under 200 calories and less than 1 gram of fat. When it comes to calories and fat, it's what's on top that counts. Rich, creamy sauces or sauces full of fatty ingredients such as sausage or cheese can send the calorie and fat total in your pasta dish sky-high. Choose vegetable-based sauces to keep the calories and fat low. See also: Pasta Power: Q and A

Nutrient of the Week

Aspartic Acid (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Aids in the expulsion of harmful ammonia from the body. When ammonia enters the circulatory system it acts as a highly toxic substance which can be harmful to the central nervous system. Recent studies have shown that Aspartic Acid may increase resistance to fatigue and increase endurance.

Quick Recipe

5-Minute Lemon Pie
Start with a reduced-fat graham cracker crust; the store-bought ones work well or you can make your own. Then open up a can of lemon pie filling and pour it into the graham cracker crust. Then top with oodles of fat free whipped cream; cool whip works terrific. Put in refrigerator for about two hours, and it's dessert.

Tidbit(s)

Golf Warm Ups
Before teeing off on the golf course, most people warm up by hitting balls at the driving range, then putting and chipping on the practice green. But it's better to start at the practice green, then go to the driving range; that way, your muscles aren't cold and tight when you start playing.

Food Fixes

Instant Lemonade: Pour lemon juice with sugar and a little salt into ice trays, to make cubes which can be used for instant lemonade.

Strawberries seem to spoil very quickly. Here is an old tip: Remove the leaves and stem of the berries. Wash and place them in a colander. Pour BOILING water over the strawberries. This will kill the bacteria that molds the berries. Place the strawberries in a plastic container in the refrigerator. They will last twice as long.

When you bring home vegetables in those plastic bags, be sure to poke holes in them to let the vegetables breathe. Dip steamed vegetables in ice water to retain color.

To improve the crispness of french fried potatoes, soak the raw potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking.