Olivia Fox Online-Ask O

Im no doctor, nor am I playing one, however, if you or "your friend" are faced with a problem and you want an unbiased piece of advice, register on the home page and click here, to submit your problem.

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Dear Olivia,
So glad you are back on during the days, I listen to you online while I am at work. Tell Sug I said Go Jags............
But the question I want is how do I become a better cook? I didn't have a mom who actually took the time to teach me to cook, and I don't have time for cooking classes. I have tried out some of you recipes you have on your site, and the thing I enjoy about them is they are easy to follow. I was wondering what advice you could offer to someone like myself who is challenged in the kitchen but actually wants to become better, because I am a healthy person and I want to cook healthier and stop spending the money to eat out. Any advice I would appreciate and keep up the good work.
Sherri------------- Plant city, Florida

Dear Sherri,
Well you are right, eating out is an extra expense and at this time, things are tight everywhere. It is much more realistic to make 2 or 3 dishes that are healthy and filling and can last you for a week. So this is what I suggest. First think about what it is you like to eat, what your restrictions are if any, like for myself, I am on a low sodium, low protein diet. With a person who has had kidney problems in the past, these are important for my overall health. After you get an idea of what you like, then try to think meat, chicken or fish, , a vegetable, and a filler item of some sort.This is what I think when I think of preparing a meal. There may be times when I may not feel like a full fledge meal, perhaps just a salad or soup is for me. Then I know what ingredients I will need. On Sundays I always make a point to prepare a 3 course meal. I know on Sunday I am going to eat a full meal. During the week, I may not, but I will always have a fruit or vegetable with each meal. And I cannot tell you how important breakfast is, and how easy it is to prepare. Keep in mind, you have all day to burn your calories from breakfast off , so make that your most fillng meal. As I said, planning is important, so when you are in the grocery store you don't over spend and you get what you really need. Start easy, spaghetti is an easy dish, a rice dish with a sauce is easy. Can't go wrong with steamed veggies. But the best advice is to get into the kitchen, get familiar, try out dishes and get familiar. Pick up an easy to read cook book, remember big print is less intimidating. Good luck.
Olivia