Fresh Strawberry and  

Cheese Delights

From the Recipe Box of Marilyn Wadum

4 Reasons to eat Strawberries:

1. One cup has only 45 calories, 3gm fiber and more Vitamin C than an orange.
2. Provides nutrients that help control high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
3. Contain antioxidants which may help slow or prevent age-related decline in mental function.
4. Contains ellagic acid which may reduce the growth and spread of certain cancers.

Source: The American Diabetes Association 

Recipe 

Serves 12 (one each)

Ingredients: 

12 medium strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 teaspoon Splenda (or sugar)

½ cup (2 oz) reduced-fat cream cheese

¼ cup crumbled blue cheese

1 - 2 teaspoons water, if needed

1 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives

½ teaspoon ground pepper

12 slices whole grain baguette (1/4 inch thick), warmed or toasted

1. Combine strawberries and sugar in medium bowl and let stand while making cheese spread.
2. Combine cream cheese and blue cheese in a small bowl using a fork. Add water, if necessary, for a thick but spreadable consistency. Stir in chives and pepper.
3. Spread about 1 teaspoon of the cheese mixture on each baguette. Top with sliced berries. Enjoy! 

Nutrition Analysis for one serving:

Calories: 66

Fat: 2 gm

Protein: 2 gm

Carbohydrate: 10 gm

Sodium: 139 mg