Question: My daughter recently moved into an apartment while she goes to school. Is it possible to prepare homemade TV dinners for her to keep in her freezer so she can microwave them when she has time? If so, what kinds of foods should I use?
Thanks,
— Sara
Answer: There are so many options to satisfy your gesture. By making your own frozen dinners you have the opportunity to reduce salt, control ingredients such as choice of oils and save money.
Begin by purchasing plastic freezer and microwave-safe dishes with compartments. Foods that freeze well include leftover meat, with or without gravy, mashed potatoes, cooked rice and pastas, casseroles, sauces, vegetables and baking for dessert.
Make sure to clearly label each dish by title and date. After food has been packaged into plastic containers, wrap with foil to prevent freezer burn.
Extra tips: Veggies should be slightly undercooked before adding them to meals. Experiment with foods by freezing small portions to see how well they taste once thawed and heated. Foods to avoid include lettuce, watermelon, pineapple, cucumber, raw tomatoes, pudding, custards, cream cheese, gelatin and egg yolks.
Question: I was advised to put CLR on an oil stain on my carpet. I left it too long and it hardened into a white patch. Is there any way to soften and remove it?
Thanks,
— Dave
Answer: Begin by making a solution of 1/4 cup dish soap, 1/2 cup white vinegar and one gallon warm water.
Blot the area with a generous amount of the solution to soften the patch. After the area is soft, dry with a hair dryer set to "warm."
Question: The water spout and ice cube dispenser on my fridge always has white residue on the tray. How can I remove the unsightly mess?
— Pearl
Answer: Pour white vinegar onto the tray, no scrubbing necessary. The mild acid will break down the build-up and dissolve the white residue.
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca
