MAKING QUICK, EASY MEALS THIS SUMMER

Summer’s gorgeous weather has us wanting to spend as much time outside as possible. So when it comes to cooking, food needs to be easy to prepare. It also needs to be easy to transport for picnics and potlucks. Move beyond the boring salad and sandwich staples and branch out this summer!

Instead of your standby tuna or chicken salad, step it up a bit! Use curry powder to bring Indian flavor to this picnic staple. Adding dried cranberries or fresh grapes is another way to update these classics. Pecans and walnuts add welcome texture and crunch. Don’t forget about changing up the condiments you use also. Substitute olive oil mayonnaise or Dijon mustard for a new twist on your old favorite. Making deviled eggs or potato salad? You can swap out the mayo or mustard or add curry to these sides as well.

Swapping out ingredients turns a boring sandwich into something special. Try experimenting with different breads, such as focaccia with salami or a baguette with ham and swiss. Layer on vegetables besides lettuce and tomato. Salami gets an upgrade with a jar of roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts. Slather on some chutney or jam to perk up a simple turkey sandwich. Even something as simple as swapping types of cheese can have a big flavor impact. Try Gouda or Havarti in your sandwiches or sprinkle feta on your salad.

We’re truly a community at Pinewood Estates! If you have any service requests, you can submit them using the online Service Manager at www.pinewoodestatesMHC.com and we’re always happy to hear from residents at 208-522-3807 or Amy@thebostongroup.us.