Kara's Sights & Bites: Making own sides, snacks is not only tastier, but it’s healthier

By Kara Kimbrough

   It’s a memorable week when I discover new recipes that not only taste great and contain some of my favorite ingredients, but are also easy and quick to make.

   First, searching for a side dish to liven up chicken, I found a lemony, buttery, garlicky pasta that’s completed in a skillet in a matter of minutes. What’s not to like about pasta, especially when it’s coated with a delicious, healthy sauce? 

    Second, experimenting with homemade snack mixes resulted in one that’s lighter and less salty than packaged products. Since the weather is (hopefully) turning cooler, this will be the perfect snack to enjoy with a cup of hot apple cider.

Easy Garlic Lemon Skillet Pasta

1 pound spaghetti

4 garlic cloves, finely minced

4 tablespoons salted butter

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tablespoon finely minced parsley (use dried in a pinch)

¼ teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water and to taste

    Start a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and boil until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Toss with a little olive oil if the sauce is not yet ready.

    In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium low heat. Add the garlic and cook 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and garlic just starts to turn golden. Remove from the heat before garlic browns. Reserve until the pasta is ready. In the skillet, toss the drained pasta, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice and zest, parsley, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and just enough pasta water to create a light sauce (start with 2 to 3 tablespoons). Taste again and add a few more pinches of salt if desired. Enjoy warm.

Cinnamon Apple Snack Mix

2 cups apple chips

1 cup granola (preferably cinnamon-flavored)

1 cup walnuts, chopped

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup honey

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

    In a large bowl, combine the apple chips, granola, walnuts, and raisins or dried cranberries. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey until it is thin and pourable. Stir in the cinnamon and salt. Drizzle the honey mixture over the snack mix and toss until everything is evenly coated. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350 degrees for about 10-12 minutes, stirring once, until the nuts are toasted.

Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at [email protected].