A call for healthy nachos

Here’s a challenge for local recipe innovators: Can you create a healthy recipe for nachos?

The Dairy Farmers of Washington have a twist for this year’s nacho recipe contest: Each entry must contain at least one reduced-calorie ingredient.

“They might be considered an indulgence but the healthfulness of nachos really comes down to what you put on them,” says Michelle Weinbender, a Spokane registered dietician who will help judge the contest. “Using low-fat dairy ingredients, baked chips rather than fried and adding vegetables or lean ingredients instead of those high in fat can build a plate of healthier nachos that still taste great.”

Three-time winner Jamie Severson will serve as a judge at this year’s contest. Her 3-2-1 Nachos with Mango Salsa and Sweet Poppy Seed Drizzle are undefeated. I’ll be judging, as well.

Recipes entered must contain two kinds of cow’s milk cheese.

The contest, also sponsored by University Appliance, will be held April 29. Entries must be turned in by April 22. Forms are available at University Appliance stores, 9907 E. Sprague Ave., 3916 N. Division St. and 6960 N. Government Way in Coeur d’Alene.

Three finalists will compete in an April 29 cook-off for a $500 gift certificate to University Appliance, a $250 gift certificate to Yoke’s Fresh Market for dairy products and a $100 gift certificate to University Appliance.

Edible Arrangements opens on North Side

It was one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s top 10 hottest franchises last year. Now, it’s in Spokane. Ken and Crystal Lamoreaux recently opened an Edible Arrangements store on North Division Street. The store designs bouquets of cut fruit including, strawberries, pineapple, grapes, oranges cantaloupe and honeydew melon.

The arrangements are available in a variety of sizes and range from $36 to $200 for a gigantic party display that would serve 75 people, says Crystal Lamoreaux.

The store is at 821 N. Division St., Suite B. Orders can be placed over the phone at 325-4996. Get a look at the options on the Web at www.ediblearrangements.com.

Easter cookie bouquet classes

Speaking of edible bouquets, Carolyn’s Cake, Candy and Cookie Supplies has a few spaces left in upcoming classes for Easter Cookie Bouquets. Learn the techniques you need to make professional looking bouquets for $25 (supplies are included).

The classes are Saturday and April 15 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Call 489-3631 to reserve a space. Carolyn’s is at 1705 N. Hamilton St. The Web site is www.carolynscakesupplies.com.