In this day and age with the world rushing by, overly independent children and work late partners, one often finds oneself eating alone, but this dose not mean one has to curl up to a lean cuisine.

Solo dining can be tasty, healthy, convenient and enjoyable. Just follow these three rules:

* Plan ahead.
* Make your cooking count: make extra large batches, freeze for later.
* Create a pleasant one-person dining atmosphere

Here are some of my favorite recipes for one

Clam Chowder for One
1/2 cup cubed peeled potato
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/8 tsp. salt
Pinch pepper
1/2 cup water
1 (6-1/2-oz.) can chopped clams, drained
2/3 cup milk
Just enough chicken broth to cover potato and vegetables
1 tbsp. butter or margarine
1 bacon strip, cooked and crumbled
Chopped parsley, optional

In a small saucepan, cook potato, onion, salt and pepper in minimal amount of chicken broth until vegetables are tender (do not drain).

Add clams, milk, butter and bacon; heat through (do not boil).

Sprinkle with parsley.

Yield: 1 serving

Beef Stir Fry for One

1 tbsp. soy sauce
2 tsp. cider or red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp. sugar
1/4 lb. sirloin steak, cut into 1/4-in. strips
1/4 cup broccoli florets
1/4 cup cauliflowerets
1/2 tsp. vegetable oil
1/4 cup diced green or sweet red pepper
1/4 cup diced cabbage
1/4 cup sliced water chestnuts
2 green onion, sliced
3 tbsp. beef broth
1 tsp. cornstarch
Hot Cooked Rice

In a large resealable plastic bag or shallow glass container, combine the first 4 ingredients; add beef and turn to coat. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes.

In a skillet or wok, stir-fry broccoli and cauliflower in oil until vegetables begin to soften.

Add beef and marinade; cook on medium-high for 3 minutes.

Add green pepper, cabbage and water chestnuts; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.

Add onions.

Combine broth and cornstarch until smooth; add to skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Serve over rice.

Yield: 1 serving

For more great recipes visit: Razzle Dazzle Recipes