A pastry blender is a great way to mash all the ingredients for guacamole.

When in doubt, read the label. If there is something you can’t pronounce or figure out (chemical based, not foreign language), chances are it’s not “fast friendly”.

A lot of people are discovering they really like beans. Beans are a great source of protein and fiber and can be cooked so many different ways. If you have a favorite bean recipe, please share with us.

Strawberries are not usually in season in January, but Kroger and Publix have had some incredibly sweet strawberries the past week and a half. No sugar needed, just eat them as they come.

Sadly tomatoes are not in season, and the ones that are in the stores are not very flavorful right now. I think that is why a lot of people have told me they are already tired of tomatoes.

Frozen vegetables are okay as long as they are the plain vegetable, not with cheese sauce or other sauces. Try steaming them and then add seasoning after they are done. The Garlic & Wine seasoning from the Melting Pot restaurant is amazing on all sorts of vegetables.

Potatoes, sweet potatoes, beets, and other root vegetables get sweeter when roasted. A little olive oil and a hot oven (450 degrees) and 45 minutes and you have a great dish to serve along with brown rice and steamed vegetables.

Corn chips are fast friendly. Just check the ingredients to make sure it’s natural and not full of preservatives and other “junk”.

A good blender is always helpful to have. Smoothies are a great way to sneak vegetables and fruits into picky eater kids (and adults). They also are great for making a creamy soup without the cream.

Keep checking back for more recipes, hints and tips, and please share your ideas with us too.

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