On The Path - November 2013 | Page 8

Nutrition & Lifestyle

Pleasing

the

Senses

As we approach the season where celebratory events are plentiful, the appetizers become just as important as the main dishes. These recipes provide an easy and healthy way to satisfy family and friends of all ages.

Happy Holidays!

Ingredients

1 cup water

1/2 cup sugar

1 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced

3 pears, chopped into bite-size pieces, divided

2 quarts apple cider

1 lemon, halved and sliced

1 tablespoon ground allspice

1 cup fresh cranberries

2 tablespoons vanilla extract

Preparation

1.Combine water, sugar, ginger and 1 pear in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Strain out the solids and return the mixture to the pan.

2.Add the remaining pears, cider, lemon and allspice and heat over medium-high heat, stirring often, for 15 minutes.

3.Add cranberries and vanilla and reduce the heat to medium-low (the liquid should be simmering, not boiling). Let simmer for 10 minutes more. Serve in heat-safe mugs.

Sleigh Driver

Marinated Olives & Feta

Ingredients

1 cup sliced pitted olives, such as Kalamata or mixed Greek

1/2 cup diced feta cheese, preferably reduced-fat

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

2 cloves garlic, sliced

1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary

Pinch of crushed red pepper

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Preparation

1.Combine olives, feta, oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, rosemary, crushed red pepper and black pepper in a medium bowl.

Make Ahead Tip

Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day

This scrumptious nonalcoholic punch

adds pear, cranberries and vanilla to

the traditional hot cider.

Olives and feta marinated with rosemary, lemon and garlic are great served on

crisp flatbread-style crackers or warm slices of crusty baguette