Tip 1 : Can you make hummus? Blend canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans), garlic, olive oil, lemon juice & tahini (sesame seed paste). Enjoy!

Tip 2 : Choose lean meat cuts for casserole dishes, like lean pork loin or sirloin for tamale pie. Check online for recipes.

Tip 3 : Pack a peanut butter and banana sandwich with a bag of homemade trail mix for lunch.

Tip 4 : If you order cappuccinos or lattes--ask for them with fat-free (skim) milk.

Tip 5 : Make roasted tomatoes--Cut tomatoes into wedges, drizzle with olive oil, season with garlic and herbs. Roast and serve as a side dish.

Tip 6 : A chicken salad with chicken breast chunks, Romaine lettuce, veggies, and a vinaigrette makes a great lunch or dinner.

Tip 7 : Eat the most perishable fruit first. Bananas only last a few days, while apples will stay crisp in the fridge for over a week.

Tip 8 : Put rinsed and cut vegetables in a bowl or bag on a shelf in your refrigerator where you can see them.

Tip 9 : Make your own vegetarian burgers with cooked black beans, mushrooms, seasonings, and egg or oatmeal. Form into patties and pan grill.

Tip 10 : Buy vegetables that are easy to prepare. Pick up pre-washed bags of salad greens, baby carrots or celery sticks.