You can even create a bouquet garni by tying up a bunch of herbs into a piece of cheesecloth; drop it into soups and stews and remove whole bundle from pot when you’re about to serve. If you just want a hint of flavor, on other hand, sprinkle on fresh ground dried herbs or scatter chopped fresh herbs on after your cooking is done.

For example, you could add chopped chives to a baked potato, parsley to a plate of chicken and rice, or cayenne pepper to a dish or chili. Remember, though, that dried herbs are more concentrated and pungent than fresh herbs. If you choose to use dried herbs, use about a quarter less than you would if you were using fresh.

One night while at my girlfriends house kids were hounding her for pizza for dinner and I suggested these instead. They loved them. They especially loved adding their own individual toppings (pepperoni slices were not available and you shouldn’t eat them on a consistent basis). Dessert was Jell-O with fruit. The kids got to have their pizza, and their mom was much happier with healthier meal.

So, when they ask for pizza, give them “little pizza” alternative.

Copyright 2005, DeFiore Enterprises