Avocados packed with the good stuff

For a healthful, all-natural snack, consider the avocado. Not only is it packed with dietary fiber, vitamins B-6, C, E, folate and potassium; it also has a high percentage of monounsaturated, or "good," fat, which studies have shown helps prevent heart disease, according to the California Avocado Commission. Tip: To speed ripening, place an avocado in a paper bag with an apple for two to three days at room temperature.

Taste of the summer

Why wait until steamed-crab season to savor Old Bay seasoning? The booklet "More Cooking With Old Bay" (American Cooking Guild, 1997), has a quickie recipe for a flavorful tuna salad for two: Combine 1 small can drained tuna, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon chopped onion, 1 tablespoon chopped celery and 3/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning. Add extra mayo or Old Bay to taste.

Time to eschew meat

The 15th observance of the Great American Meatout will be held Saturday around the country. Participants are encouraged to "kick the meat habit" at least for a day. Coordinated by the Bethesda-based Farm Animal Reform Movement, the campaign seeks to create awareness of the benefits of a diet of grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits. For information, call 800-MEATOUT.

Pub Date: 03/17/99