Helpful Hints

DEAR HELOISE: Children love to decorate cookies and I found it easier to have the cookies cut out and put on a prepared cookie sheet ready to decorate. My mini muffin pan is a good place to put individual decorations in the receptacles, making them easier to get to.

-- Gloria H., Ohio

DEAR HELOISE: Please reprint your Vinaigrette Pasta Salad. I absolutely love it, and so does my family.

-- Kyla G., Utah

DEAR READER: You'll need:

1/2 cup distilled white vinegar

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper

1 teaspoon fresh dill or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl or jar, mixing vigorously. Makes 1 cup. Set aside to use shortly.

1 pound fettuccini, cooked, drained, cooled

6 ounces sliced salami, cut into 1/4-inch strips

6 ounces sliced cooked ham, cut into 1/4-inch strips

6 ounces thinly sliced, fresh spinach, romaine or escarole

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Combine all ingredients except vinaigrette in a large bowl. Pour vinaigrette over the pasta; toss until well-coated.

DEAR READERS: The papaya is a tropical fruit packed with nutrients, yet low in calories. It's also low in fat and has zero cholesterol. It's an excellent source of vitamins C and A and is rich in vitamin B complex. Studies have discovered that papayas contain antioxidants, which help reduce cancer risks. This fruit aids digestion and is used in the manufacturing of cosmetic and skin products. It's the fruit you should add to your menu for a healthier lifestyle.

DEAR HELOISE: I've heard that adults shouldn't drink milk. My sister-in-law believes that milk contributes to her allergies. I find this difficult to understand. Is it harmful for adults to drink milk?

-- Kelly T., Uvalde, Texas

DEAR READER: Although milk is a great source of vitamin D, potassium and calcium, it also contains fat. If a person is lactose-intolerant, he or she might experience gastrointestinal distress, bloating, nausea or diarrhea.

There is research that addresses whether adults should consume milk after being weaned. If cow's milk causes problems for you, try soy milk, almond milk or goat's milk.

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email

[email protected]

Food on 06/26/2019

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