TIPS and TRICKS page 1

These are some helpful tips and tricks for you!

1. STORE FOOD SAFELY when camping, plan to use perishables within 2 days for food safety. Pack peanut butter, canned tuna, beef jerky, nuts or packaged convenience meals-for the last part of the trip.
   
2. BACK AWAY FROM THE STOVE MA'AM Top a salad with tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, shredded cheese and leftover grilled chicken, steak or pork.
   
3. COOL NEW DRINK Celebrate national iced tea month in June with a new quencher, steep 4 tea bags in 4 c. boiling water; chill. Add tea, thawed 11 1/2 oz. cranberry-raspberry juice concentrate, 4 c. cold water and ice to a pitcher. Stir and enjoy!
   
4. THINK SMALL Enjoy tapas on Friday night with friends. Serve some yummy appetizers and add cheese and crackers, veggies and dip or other simple store-bought items to keep the meal fun.
   
5. HAUL LESS Don't take every spice you own on your next adventure. Buy a Travel spice kit that features unique herbs and spices in a compact tin that's perfect for camping!
   
6. COOL TO GRILL For even cooking, bring food to a cool room temperature before grilling.
   
7. HANDY IDEA Have 2 pairs of long-handled tongs ready-one for coals and one for food. Wear long barbecue mitts to protect hands and arms.
   
8. EASE WATERMELLON PREP For easy snacking all week, I like to cut a watermelon in half widthwise and remove the seeds, then slice it into pieces. I put the pieces in a storage container and refrigerate it. It's always handy when we want a fresh snack.
   
9. STOCK UP Buy fresh berries when they're in season and on sale. Place washed fresh berries on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and freeze. Transfer to heavy-duty freezer bags. They'll save time in sauces, pancakes, baked goods and more.
   
10. MAKE DINNER FAST Layer grilled Italian bread with grilled beef tenderloin steaks, bruschetta topping and blue cheese salad dressing. Yum!
    
11. PLAN AHEAD Won't have access to soap and water at a picnic? Bring moist towelettes or waterless antibacterial soap.