Judy E. Buss

The holidays are here, and this year we can make a choice: do we want to take the gravy train, gobble up battalions of turkeys and hogs; stuff ourselves with whipped-cream-smothered pastry, and dive into pools of soda, wine, and beer? (Please pass the Tums- thanks!) OR, we can decide to exercise some self- control and mind our health while celebrating the Winter Holidays.

This year we can choose to eat less at social gatherings, and when cooking, opt for healthy cuisine! The latter choice is not only better for our health, it has a post-holiday bonus: knowing that we stuck to our plan through thick and thin… The following are some tips to help you survive this health-challenging season:
*  During parties when loading your plate (only once!), select smaller portions and healthier dishes. Try to skip pastry altogether, or consume one small sample.
*  If you bake cookies select more wholesome recipes, such as oatmeal cookies with nuts, cranberries, and/or raisins. Use raisins, instead of sugar when baking an apple pie.
*  Make raw veggie salads a priority in your holiday dining.
*  For light meals between social events and/or dinners, make delicious fresh vegetable soups. Any combination of veggies and/or beans, with olive oil, and herbs is delicious. Serve with whole grain toasted pita wedges.

TURKEY STUFFING
(Serves 4)
6 slices whole wheat or multi grain bread
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
12 fresh mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup roasted walnuts, coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1/4 cup cooking olive oil
1/4 cup water or low-fat milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Heat oil, cook garlic and onion (covered) for 12 minutes. Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and celery. Cook 7 more minutes. Wash, dry mushrooms, slice and add them, to the veggie mixture. Cook until mushrooms are just barely tender stirring occasionally. Add the water (or milk). Remove from stove.

In a large bowl, tear the bread slices into small pieces. Mix with vegetable sauce and nuts. If too dry, evenly drizzle and mix in some water.

“Mission Nutrition” Tips and Recipes from Judy E. Buss, Syndicated Eating-for-Health Columnist

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