Elementary Chef

Here are some great — and easy — recipes to please everyone in the family! Clementines look like little oranges, and they are currently “in season” at your grocer. Try some of these for something fresh and new!

– Clementine Salsa
With this zesty salsa, your kids will simply devour their fruits and vegetables. Combine 2 cups sectioned and halved Clementines, 1 cup diced tomato, 1/4 cup minced red onion, 2-3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin and fresh lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve with corn chips or spoon over pork chops, chicken and fish.

– Whole Wheat Pasta Salad with Fresh Clementines and Olives
A perfect way to give your children their grains. For this delicious and satisfying lunch or side dish, combine 1 pound cooked whole wheat spiral pasta, 1 cup pitted Greek olives (such as kalamata), 1 cup halved Clementine sections, and 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese in a large mixing bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup Clementine or orange juice, 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Pour mixture over pasta and toss to combine. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.

– Clementine and White Bean Salad
Beans are a great nutritious choice for kids. For this incredible side dish, in a large bowl, combine 2 cans (drained) white or navy beans, 1 cup halved Clementine sections, 1 seeded and chopped red bell pepper, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, and 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Serve over lettuce, in lettuce cups or in hollowed-out cucumbers if desired.

– Clementine Shortcakes
Cut baked biscuits or shortcakes in half and top the bottom half with whipped cream (or non-dairy whipped topping) and Clementine sections. Place remaining biscuit on top and spoon more whipped cream on top. Garnish with confectioners’ sugar and fresh mint if desired.