The library can help with healthy dinners

MOSCOW (AP) - What to cook for dinner? This question plagues me on a daily basis. What can I fix quickly or pick up on my way home from work?

Obviously being in such a hurry, my choices are not always so healthy.

I've found that locating healthy recipes, finding the time to shop for the ingredients and committing to better food choices is a real challenge. Changing "stuck in a rut" routines and "not so healthy" eating habits can be agonizing and uncomfortable, especially when these unhealthy foods are the ones we crave most.

Speaking from experience, I am very reluctant to give up a number of my favorite foods.

Luckily for you and me, Whitman County Library provides a number of resources for healthy meal planning.

The library boasts more than 200 cookbooks, many of which feature fast preparation times or healthy ingredients.

Another benefit of browsing the library's collection is that many of the cookbooks are authored by medical professionals addressing illness, disease, weight loss or allergies.

A few titles that I've used, enjoyed and personally recommend are "Weeknight Wonders, Delicious Healthy Dishes in 30 Minutes or Less" and "Weelicious: 140 Fast, Fresh, and Easy Recipes."

Because I like coming home to a hot prepared meal, a crock pot cookbook that I often recommend is, "Fix It and Forget-It Cookbook: Feasting with Your Slow Cooker."

Besides cookbooks, the library occasionally offers cooking classes. I am very excited about the next one being offered at the Colfax Branch called, "Cookies & Cakes with Whole Grain Flours." Presented by food blogger Kelli Myers of Joseph's Grainery at 9 a.m. July 27, the class provides valuable information about baking with whole grains, along with recipes and yummy samples.

Weather permitting, attendees are invited to follow up the class with a visit to the Joseph's Grainery to view its products being harvested and to tour its operation at the Colfax Airport. Farmer and Joseph's Grainery owner Bill Myers will host the tour and answer questions.

This Farm-to-Table class is part of Spokane Community College's ACT 2 program at the Whitman County Library in Colfax and requires registration. There is a small fee to register, all of which goes back to the ACT 2 program. Follow the links to register online at www.josephsgrainery.com or call CCS at (509) 279-6030.

Whether you are wondering "what to fix for dinner," searching for healthy, quick meals or want to try a cooking class, look no further than Whitman County Library.

We are ready to serve you at (509) 397-4366, www.whitco.lib.wa.us or in any of our 14 community locations.

Sarah McKnight is a community educator at the Whitman County Library.