Culinary Adventures
By Rachel Ryan

I’ve been known to be a little picky about what types of foods I will and will not eat. Any thing with raisins, no thanks. Fish — pass. Broccoli, absolutely not! But thanks to the help of a few close friends, I’ve started giving new foods a try. And although, some foods I never want to “try” again, I’ve found others that I really enjoy. Spice up you life by trying some new foods!

• Vegetables: Of course they are good for you, but by trying some new vegetables, you may find that you really like them. Many of the vegetables that you didn’t enjoy as a child may be very appetizing to you an adult. Some of my adult favorites include artichokes, tomatoes, asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers and squash. 
• Hummus: This Middle Eastern dip/spread is made of cooked, mashed chickpeas and can be found in various flavors at your local grocery store. A good source of protein and dietary fiber, it can be served as a dip with vegetables, crackers, chips or pita bread, alongside a main dish or as a sandwich spread. 
• Sushi: Although commonly thought of as raw fish, sushi is actually rice, usually topped with other ingredients, including fish (sometimes raw), various meats and vegetables. If you’re nervous about trying sushi, start out with vegetable sushi. If you’re feeling more daring try a spicy tuna roll or a dragon roll. 
• Veggie Burgers: Mix things up a little bit on the BBQ. You can make homemade veggie burgers or can pick up some yummy ones in the freezer section of your local grocery store. Eat them plain or on a bun with all the fixings. 
• New Dish: If you’re like most moms, you probably have a list of recipes that you use over and over again. If you like cooking, branch out and try some new recipes. If eating out is more your style, try a new item on the menu. Be brave, be daring. Try a new recipe or dish that is out of the norm for you or go to a restaurant that is different from where you usually would go.

Are your taste buds revved up yet? Try new fall recipes that are part of your MOPS International Membership and visit www.MOPS.org/recipes to share your culinary masterpieces with other moms.