The Colorful Plate
Special Occasion Recipes

For Special Occasions

The recipes marked with this symbol are for special occasions. Family favorite recipes, whether served at an elegant holiday table, an exquisite buffet, or a casual gathering, usually bring an aspect of nutrition that cannot be accounted for in the recipe. Is it the childhood memory of a certain smell wafting from the kitchen, or is it the angle of the sunlight gleaming through the window? All we know is that a touch of magic occurs when that steaming dish is placed on the table or a fork cuts into the first bite of dessert.

Too many times people trying to eat healthy think about the foods they have to give up rather than the exciting new food discoveries in their future. Among those discoveries may be the remaking of a family favorite into a newer, tasty, low-fat version. Sometimes, however, it is impossible to remake a satisfying favorite. Do not simply eliminate these recipes from your diet; choose to include those favorites for special occasions only—holidays, anniversaries, or birthdays (as long as there are not too many special occasions). Continue to enjoy the warmth of memories past with the knowledge that your usual fare includes a variety of healthy foods chosen from the other recipes in this booklet.