A Homemade Mother’s Day

You’ve heard the saying – “It’s the thought that counts” – and it’s especially true on Mother’s Day. Showing Mom some extra attention at home is as meaningful as any restaurant outing, and a lot more affordable.

Whatever you decide to prepare, garnishes can make all the difference. Decorate the plate with citrus wedges and sprigs of fresh herbs, or make cucumber roses by peeling a long, thin strip of cucumber and twirling into a flower shape. For the finishing touch, add fresh fruit to sparkling water or juice. Don’t forget a handmade card just for Mom!

Tip: Set the stage for a special meal with a bouquet from our Floral Department. Surprise Mom and save big with this week’s Eating Healthy on a Budget recipe, featuring items from our current circular.

Pasta, Tomatoes and Spinach

Kids can join in on the fun and help prepare dinner for Mother’s Day. Try bowtie pasta with fresh tomatoes on a bed of spinach for a lovely side dish. Add some grilled chicken or fish and you have a delicious, balanced meal. Serve pineapple for dessert.

Makes 4, 1.5 cup servings • Prep time: 5 minutes • Cook time: 15 minutes
6oz (½ package) GIANT past a 1 pint GIANT grape tomatoes, halved 10 ounce package GIANT fresh spinach, divided 1 Tablespoon GIANT olive oil 3 garlic cloves, minced	1 teaspoon dried basil 1/4 teaspoon GIANT salt 1/4 teaspoon GIANT ground black pepper 1/2 cup GIANT grated Parmesan or Romano cheese

ADULT: Cook pasta in boiling water for 10 minutes or until pasta is soft. Drain and keep warm.

CHILD: Rinse and drain tomatoes and spinach.

ADULT: While pasta is cooking, slice tomatoes in half. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add tomatoes. Cover and cook for 4 minutes.

CHILD: Measure basil, salt and pepper and sprinkle over pasta.

ADULT: Add pasta mixture to tomato mixture. Cook until noodles are beginning to brown. Add two cups spinach and cook until slightly wilted.

ADULT and CHILD: Sprinkle cheese over pasta and stir in. Arrange fresh spinach on plate and place cooked pasta mixture over spinach.

Nutrition information per serving: 260 calories, 8g fat, 2g saturated fat, 10mg cholesterol, 490mg sodium, 38g carbohydrates, 4g fiber, 3g sugar, 10g protein