Recipes From Louise
By Louise McClain Special to The True Citizen

With school beginning, the lazy days of summer are over. We are back to a fast-paced world. How do you make sure that your family is well-fed when time is limited? Don't settle for frozen dinners or fast food. These dishes are tasty, quick and easy. I'm sure your children will even enjoy helping prepare them.

Pecan Mandarin Salad
2½ cups torn romaine lettuce
1 can (11 oz.) mandarin oranges, drained
1/3 cup sliced cucumber
¼ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
¼ cup evaporated milk
1 TBSP red wine vinegar or cider vinegar
1/3 tsp. pepper

In a bowl, combine the romaine, oranges, cucumber and pecans. In a jar with a tightfitting lid, combine the milk, sugar, vinegar and pepper; shake well. Pour over salad and toss to coat. Yield: 4 servings.

Barbecued Chicken Pizza
1 prebaked Italian bread shell crust (14 oz.)
2/3 cup honey garlic barbecue sauce
1 small red onion, chopped
1 cup cubed cooked chicken
2 cups (8 oz.) shredded mozzarella cheese

Place the crust on a pizza pan. Spread with barbecue sauce; sprinkle with onion, chicken and cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Yield: 4 servings.

Gingered Melon
½ medium honeydew, cut into 1- inch cubes
¼ cup orange juice
1½ tsp. ground ginger
½ to 1 cup whipped cream
¼ cup fresh or frozen unsweetened raspberries

In a bowl, combine the melon, orange juice and ginger; refrigerate for 5-10 minutes. Spoon into tall dessert glasses or bowls. Top with whipped cream and raspberries. Yield: 4 servings.