Friday, February 6, 2009

The Fruits of My Labor

I am not a fan of grocery shopping. I try to get into it, I try to savor the experience of picking out produce and planning fabulous meals - but the reality is I think it is work. I went last night because we were dangerously close to being out of milk and cereal (two essentials in our household), and I needed a little time to myself.

The cost of food these days are constantly fluctuating. I am used to seeing milk prices go up and down, and I choose my cereal based on whatever deal the store has available. But I was absolutely shocked to see the size of cereal and cracker boxes! Have you noticed how tiny they are? I am all for reducing waste and the senseless use of plastic packaging, but I am concerned that the amount of product in these boxes has gone down as well. The prices don't seem to be going down. I don't know if I am getting my money's worth anymore. It's very disheartening.

There is good news. I bought the ingredients to make a very good fruit salad that is worth my money. Everyone in my house seems to like it and it keeps for more than a couple of days in the refrigerator. My mom gave me the recipe and I like to call it "Rainbow Salad".


Rainbow Salad

First, the essential ingredient
1 can pineapple tidbits in 100% juice (do NOT drain)

Now add whatever fruit you like, fresh is best:
raspberries
strawberries, quartered
1 can mandarin oranges, drained
banana, sliced (best if added right before serving)
kiwi, sliced
blueberries

The pineapple juice is what keeps this salad from turning brown. My daughter practically inhales this stuff and I feel good giving it to her because there is no added sugar, just pure fruit! It is great with yogurt or by itself.

Grocery shopping may be a lot of work, but it's nice to know that my whole family can enjoy the fruits of my labor. Get it? Fruits of my labor!? Ha!

3 comments:

Zil said...

That looks pretty with the softer berries and fruits!

Anna said...

I never thought about leaving the pineapple juice in. Great idea.

...And I love the 'tidbit' size. So much nicer than the big hunks.

Kelly said...

I like the tidbits too, they are just the perfect size - and the softer berries make it pretty but they tend to stain the juice after sitting in the fridge. It gives it a dark pink hue.