Around the house 7/2/03

In the kitchen

Salad days with oomph

Making a salad medley that satisfies and yet leaves you feeling virtuous is easy. Start with the darkest possible greens (iceberg lettuce is water masquerading as a vegetable) and add 3 or 4 ounces of lean protein, suggests Self magazine.

Protein is key to creating a meal-worthy salad because it's filling, says Kathy McManus, registered dietitian and director of the nutrition department at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston.

Keep your taste buds engaged with creative add-ins like these:

Artichoke hearts: Contain vitamin C, folate, potassium, magnesium and fiber.

Cauliflower: Blanch or saute in vegetable oil with a dash of curry powder for a nutritious topper.

Dried cranberries or cherries: Provide potassium and vitamin A.

Figs: One of the highest-fiber fruits.

Peas: Contain vitamins A and C, iron and potassium. Try wasabi-roasted peas for a spicy punch.

Pistachios: One of the highest-fiber nuts.

Pumpkin seeds: Contain protein, B vitamins, iron.

Veggie sticks: Great for crunch, they have about 30 percent less fat than potato chips.

Water chestnuts: Some fiber, vitamin B, iron, potassium and zinc.

-- AP

In the garden

When using any gas powered equipment, be sure to allow the engine a few minutes to cool before refilling empty fuel tanks.

Perennials that have finished blooming should be deadheaded. Cut back the foliage some to encourage tidier appearance. Keep deadheading spent annuals flowers for continued bloom.

Remove infected leaves from roses. Pick up fallen leaves. Continue fungicidal sprays as needed.

Newly planted trees and shrubs should continue to be watered thoroughly, once each week. --Donna Leadbetter, University of Missouri Outreach and Extension

Around the house

Childproofing your home involves common sense.

Some very simple, effective products that help prevent serious accidents:

Electrical outlet covers

Cabinet and drawer latches

Approved safety gates

Toilet-seat lid locks (They can prevent a child from drowning in the small amount of water contained in a toilet bowl.)

More tips:

Know what you're planting -- some houseplants are poisonous.

Beware of dangling electrical cords.

Never leave electrical appliances such as irons or coffee makers on and unattended.

Follow the commonsense advice on the labels of toxic household chemicals: "Keep out of reach of children."

--AP