Old Mother Cupboard

Some days the pantry hosts a world of possibilities and other times it just looks bare, no matter what is inside. I have found most often when the selection is at an absolute low that is when my most creative recipes emerge. That is when the old dusty can of beans you had on the second to last shelf puts Jack and his bitty little beanstalk to shame. A little imagination can go a long way, but it also helps to keep a few basic items around at all times. One item that is a staple in my kitchen is the tortilla. Yes, that's right...this little Italian girl just said tortilla. A basic tortilla has infinite options. Sometimes I use it to make a low-fat quiche. All you needs are eggs, some frozen veggies, and a tortilla. (Milk and cheese help, but are not a requirement). Spray a round pan with some cooking spray, place the tortilla inside of it (pressing in the sides so that it takes on the shape of the pan), then bake it for about a minute at 400 degrees until it starts to toast. Remove it from the oven and pop any bubbles that formed (sometimes that happens). In a bowl, beat together about 6 eggs (I use about 3 eggs and 6 egg whites usually to keep it light), about 1/4 cup of milk, salt, pepper, a grated cheese of your choice, and some veggies. Then add the mixture to your tortilla crust and bake. In about 20 minutes, you've got dinner, and maybe even tomorrow's lunch. Another great trick with tortillas are flat bread pizzas. I actually like to use the grill for this one, but you can also do it in the oven. Place the tortilla on hot grill (spray the rack beforehand to avoid sticking). Let it cook for 1 minute, then flip it and cook it for another minute. Add your favorite sauce, anything from pesto to marinara to puttanesca (my favorite), cheese, and any other toppings you like. Close the grill and let it cook for about 2 minutes until all is melted. In less than 4 minutes, dinner is made. Next time you think you've got no food in the house, look again. Surprises await you in your pantry.