Traditionally March heralds the end of winter and the start of spring. And even though the amount of snow here in Toronto does not seem to be letting up I know that eventually we will come out from under this blanket of white. I can’t wait for that first sniff of spring air, the early flowers to poke their heads out of the still cold ground and of course for all the wonderful tastes and flavours that herald the start of spring.

I find myself at this time of year craving fresh-tasting dishes which remind me that summer is just around the corner. Meals like warm salads, grilled fish and light springy vegetables such as asparagus are great stopgaps between hearty winter dishes and lighter summer meals.
Take a look around your local grocery store and see what is new and fresh to rev up your cooking and your spirits. You’ll do your body and mind a favour by tricking them into thinking spring is here just that little bit earlier. Because it is coming isn’t it? Isn’t it?

And for those of you not fortunate enough to be heading off for a sunnier location during March Break check out my most recent column “In Like A Lion and Out Like A Lamb”. I share with you two recipes that I call “snacktivities” that will have you spending time in the kitchen with your kids reinforcing good eating habits as well as the importance of them gaining confidence and independence in the kitchen. And it also helps to eat up time during this long break!!! To read the column check out my entry below or any of these websites and while you’re there see what else they have to offer you during March Break.

www.kiddingaroundtoronto.com www.lifewithkids.ca www.torontoparentsguide.com www.workingmoms.ca www.oakvillemoms.com www.cityparent.com

So keep shoveling, it will end and we’ll soon be sipping margaritas by the pool and complaining about the heat. Happy Spring and Happy Easter to you all. Bon Appétit.