HOLIDAY FOODS Start the Celebration
by Janet Steffens , M . Ed ., Purdue Extension Educator in Floyd County
H oliday food for family and friends does not have to be complicated or expensive to be festive . With a little creativity and a variety of colors , it can be a season to remember for host and guests .
Safe preparation and serving suggestions for family and guests include :
– Provide a place for handwashing with warm water , soap and disposable towels .
– Provide hand sanitizer in convenient locations .
– Serve food in individual servings when possible . – Keep hot food hot and cold food cold . – Keep food covered until ready to serve . – Use food grade disposable gloves to prepare food for guests . – Refrigerate leftovers within two hours .
1
Pomegranate Cooler
Holiday food and beverages have enough sugar to derail your healthy meal plans . Try offering a sparkling holiday beverage that is low in sugar as well as colorful and nutritious . Family and friends can join in the fun of making Pomegranate Coolers . This recipe makes one to two servings and looks festive served in clear glasses with stems .
You will need for each serving : – One small orange , rinsed under running water and cut into wedges – 1 / 3 cup pomegranate juice or other red juice on hand ( try cranberry / apple ) – 1 / 4 teaspoon vanilla extract – 2 / 3 cup sparkling water or low calorie lemon-lime soda – Crushed ice
Steps : 1 . Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds . 2 . Cut orange into wedges ( one wedge for each serving ). 3 . Mix pomegranate juice and vanilla in small pitcher . 4 . Slowly add sparkling water or low calorie lemon-lime soda . 5 . Add 1 / 2 cup crushed ice . 6 . Pour into a glass and squeeze orange wedge into mixture . 7 . Drop orange wedge into drink for color . 8 . Serve immediately .
Double or triple ingredients for more servings and refrigerate leftover beverage .