Snacks

FISH STICKS (SERVES 2)

We are constantly looking for a snack or light lunch that doesn't contain bread, crackers, etc.  Don't get me wrong we love that stuff, but it seems we eat bread at just about every meal.  These were a perfect fit and so easy to prepare.  Plus they offer a great way to rid yourself of leftover fish.  You can easily substitute water packed canned tuna for the fresh fish if you wish.

• 1 small mild fish fillet about 2 ounces - cooked and chilled, leftovers are best
• 12 kalamata olives - finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion - finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
• 1 tablespoon kalamata olive juice
• 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
• pepper to taste
• 4 celery stalks - cleaned, ends trimmed

Combine all ingredients except celery in a small mixing bowl, flaking fish with a fork.  Once combined refrigerate in an air tight container for at least 30 minutes to combine flavors.  Add fish filling to celery and cut into 3" length, cutting at a diagonal.  Serve immediately.

WHOLE WHEAT OATMEAL RAISIN MUFFINS (MAKES 12)

On a recent trip to the local library I found a quaint recipe book from 1975.  I just knew the pages would be filled with simple dishes made with love.  I was right!  There are no colored photos here, no fancy, un-pronounceable ingredients, not a single celebrity chef.  JUST what I was looking for.  These muffins are a variation of Lorraine Boyce's submission for "Gram's Oatmeal Muffins".  I took the liberty of modifying the recipe a bit.  Hopefully Lorraine won't mind.  These turned out so moist and not too sweet.  If you are a nut fan I suggest throwing in a handful.  There are already variations of these developing in my head.

• 1 ½ cup water
• 1 ½ cup old fashioned rolled oats
• ¼ pound pastured butter
•  2 pastured eggs, well beaten
• ½ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup raisins

Preheat oven to 325°.  Boil water.  Turn off heat and add oats.  Stir in and melt butter and let cool.  Add remaining ingredients.  Mix well.  Bake in greased muffin tin for 20 minutes at 325°.  Easy enough?!