25

Feb

Move over Meatloaf – Salad is Center Stage Tonight

Filed Under (Articles) by Webmaster on 25-02-2009

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  Move over Meatloaf – Salad is Center Stage Tonight

 
When it comes to salads most of us think of that little dish that comes with lettuce, some veggies, cheese and dressing we have before our main meal. Others see that big salad bar with all the fixings. These are not the only ways to enjoy a salad anymore. Why not make your next salad the main course of your meal.
 
Salads have come a long way now that more of us are trying to eat healthy. Main course salads have become a hit and people are finding ways to make these salads a delightful treat. They’re simple to throw together and can fill up any stomach – no matter how big it might be.
 
These main course salads can be served in many different ways. Use a salad plate or a pretty, decorative salad bowl. Taco salad bowls are also a great base for your salads. You can find them in almost any grocery store and they don’t have to be filled with just taco fillings. Pita bread or taco shells can also be used to make a great main course salad base.
 
Most main course salads start with lettuce. Whether you’re fixing a vegetable salad or a meat enhanced salad, lettuce is the perfect filler. On the other hand if you’re making a pasta salad with some shrimp or tuna you can still use lettuce leave as a bed for the salad.
 
Go ahead and add those veggies to your main course salad. Cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, onions and mushrooms are the perfect main course salad enhancers. The more fresh veggies you can pack in the better. You can’t go wrong when it comes to vegetables and if they taste good to you, throw them in.   
 
Lettuce and veggies aren’t enough to fill the really hungry stomachs. Chopped, sliced or diced meats such as pork, beef or chicken can be added to your salads to make them tastier and more filling as well. Turkey, ham or seafood such as shrimp can also be a great addition. Additions such as meat and eggs will give your salad some added protein and will enhance the flavor as well.
 
Don’t forget those toppers. Nuts, seeds, bacon bits and croutons are always a hit when it comes to creating a salad. Your main course salad should be no exception. Add some cheese and sliced hard boiled eggs for even more substance to your salad. 
 
Main course salads can be made with Mexican or Asian fixings as well. Add some chow mien noodles and more to give the salad an Oriental flare. Don’t forget your dressing. There are a vast amount of flavorful dressings available these days to top any great salad.
 
Salads don’t have to be what was once known as rabbit food anymore. Have fun creating your main course salads and remember to let your taste buds and health consciousness lead the way.

 

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25

Dec

A Vegetarian Christmas Dinner

Filed Under (Menu Ideas) by Webmaster on 25-12-2008

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A Vegetarian Christmas Dinner

 

Tradition says that the centerpiece at a Christmas dinner is the turkey. For vegetarians, a turkey just won’t do. If you are vegetarians or have vegetarian friends attending your Christmas dinner, here are some ideas for vegetarian dishes to add to the menu.

 

There are different types of vegetarianism. You have traditional vegetarians who do not eat any meat or meat byproducts and then those who eat some dairy or seafood. Keep that in mind when cooking for them at Christmas dinner.

 

Add a few extra vegetable dishes, but watch the ingredients. Many people season their vegetables with some sort of meat. Forego that tradition this year and try some different spices to flavor the side dishes. Garlic is a good addition for asparagus and green beans.

 

Usually when a vegetarian is attending dinner, everyone brings a green bean casserole. While it is a good side dish, it isn’t a meal if five or six people bring a green bean casserole. Where is the variety? Other vegetables are great for Christmas dinner. How about a potato and corn chowder or a sweet potato casserole?

 

When it comes to the main course, you can still have turkey. If the vegetarians that you know eat seafood, add a pecan crusted salmon to the menu. It provides lots of protein and flavor. Salmon goes with green vegetables and any other side dishes you choose to bring.

 

Pasta is a dish that can be enjoyed by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Fettuccine Alfredo can be prepared using canned sauce. Have shrimp and diced chicken on the side so dinner guests can choose what they want to add to their pasta.

 

The point is not to make the vegetarian guest feel out of place at your Christmas dinner. Add menu items that everyone will enjoy but are also appropriate for any vegetarians in the group.

 

If the meal is a vegetarian gathering, fashion a turkey breast out of seasoned tofu to keep with tradition. Pair with cornbread stuffing and meatless gravy for added flavor. Tofu has the distinction of taking on the flavor of whatever it is cooked or prepared with.

 

Desserts are usually easier to manage. Remember to use soy milk in recipes that call for milk or try non-dairy recipes like a gelatin mold, cookies, or brownies. Another idea is to ask a few guests to supply the desserts for the Christmas dinner. Ask all guests to prepare desserts that don’t contain dairy or meat products.

 

Vegetarian Christmas dinner ideas help you prepare a feast that is friendly to those who don’t eat meat. While they understand that some people will be eating meat, be sure to provide them with good foods to choose from as well.

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