Christmas is upon us full swing now, and most of us are about to wrap-up (pun intended!) our seemingly endless lists of shopping, whether it is for gifts or food. I still have some food shopping to do, but my husband and I gave up the notion of buying gifts for each child a few years ago in exchange of offering money. No, we aren’t bah-humbugs, just tired parents and grandparents!
Although Don would go with me to help do the shopping, which was always enjoyable and much needed, I was the one that did the wrapping. THAT was always at least a two-night ordeal ending with an aching back. Then I had to lug some of them to the post-office to mail. This would usually cost more than the gifts themselves, and I would be totally wiped-out by the time I was through. Yep, no happy little elf here! However, this year – we went and picked out Christmas cards for each person, and then Don did the writing and signing – so I made out like a queen! Although I did really enjoy picking out paper I thought was suited for each child or grandchild, and then decorating with pretty ribbons or ornaments. Now, I just have a few “dummy” gifts under my tree so that it is not completely barren.
And I do still purchase a few toys for the younger grandchildren, although those are usually mailed before Christmas, so the tree remains without a spread of brightly wrapped gifts under it. Anyway, I think I mentioned potlucks somewhere up there! Most people have several potluck dinners to attend this time of year. Families, in-laws, work, church, and book clubs – the potlucks abound! Robin, the bookkeeper at our office, is known for her wonderful salads at our potlucks. She is a good cook and brings more than salads, but her salads are always yummy and one that you have never tried before. The recipe I have for you below is Broccoli Slaw. Robin has made Broccoli slaw before and it is delicious. The recipe below is a “lightened” version, so it is a little more heart healthy for you. And less fattening! We can all use that with all the food we will be cramming in our mouths this month! Then I also have a recipe for a wonderful roasted chicken with potatoes. It is so good – one of our favorites for dinner. Combine this with the slaw and you have a healthy, low-fat dinner.
Broccoli Slaw
4 slices turkey
bacon
1 16-oz. bag shred
ded broccoli slaw
1/4 cup low-fat or
nonfat plain
yogurt
1/4 cup reduced-fat
mayonnaise
3 tablespoons cider
vinegar
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon
sea-salt
Freshly ground
pepper to taste
1 8-ounce can low-
sodium sliced water chestnuts,
rinsed and coarsely chopped
1/2 cup finely diced red onion
Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat, turning frequently,
until crisp. Drain bacon on paper towels. Chop coarsely. Whisk yogurt, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Add water chestnuts, onion, bacon and broccoli; toss to coat. Chill until serving
time.
Tip: This slaw is better if covered and chilled up to two days before serving.