The Perfect Condiment
Hi folks! This is Stephanie, your new writer for ElementaryChef.com. I’ve been thinking a lot about why we don’t all spend more time in our kitchens. Did you realize that the average American spends as much money eating out as buying food to prepare at home? We all know that a quick trip through the McDonald’s drive-through is EASY, but what is it really doing for our bodies and our families?
The reality is, of course, that preparing meals at home takes at least some amount of time and planning. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! In the next few weeks, I’ll be posting ideas for showing your love for yourself and your family by feeding them — well! In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate red foods.
My very favorite red food is salsa. Personally, I like the kind they sell refrigerated in the deli — Rojo’s is my fave. Here are my top 5 uses for salsa, besides topping chips:
1. As a salad dressing. Plain salsa has no fat and adds a healthy helping of tomatoes to your salad. If plain salsa isn’t creamy enough for you, try mixing it with bottled ranch dressing.
2. As a topping for hamburgers. Yummy.
3. As a main ingredient for soup. Add salsa (1 cup to a jar) to 4 cups chicken bullion, cooked chicken, a can of corn (drained), and a can of pinto beans (rinsed) for a fast and easy family friendly soup.
4. As a fast snack for you or the kids. Top flour tortillas with shredded Mexican-blend cheese and some salsa. Microwave until the cheese melts, and roll for a quick and easy “quesadilla roll-up.”
5. As a quick and easy non-marinade for chicken. Top chicken with salsa and bake at 350. Add a sprinkling of cheese, and serve with a side of Spanish rice.
What are your favorite uses for salsa?
February 7th, 2007 at 6:04 pm
I adore salsa, particularly ones with a bit of a kick. I usually just use as burger relish or as a dip with cheest tortilla chips.