On the Road Again ...

I'm heading out of town this weekend to Oxnard for some wine tasting and whale watching - hopefully not at the same time. We won't be in the car that long, but it's still a good idea to ditch the drive-through or convenience store and pack your own snacks for your next road trip.

Step 1: Pack a small cooler with frozen water bottles on the bottom – if the bottles are frozen this will help cool your food and a great way to keep your water chilled for later. Place your snacks that need to be kept cool on top in separate plastic bags or small containers so they are easily accessible.

Step 2: Pack snacks that don’t make a mess. The last thing you want to worry about on a road trip is a messy car. Keep some napkins or paper towels up front with you to catch any crumbs.

Step 3: Pack snacks that are easy to handle while driving. Whether you are driving alone or with a friend, choose snacks that can be easy to grab and easy to eat - these snacks are sure to please:

• Frozen grapes - freeze the night before
• Home-popped popcorn - sprinkle with Parmesan cheese
• Carrot sticks and cheddar cheese - this is a great combo
• Apple slices - if you have a friend in the car, you can opt for a peanut butter dip
• Tea sandwiches - these bite-size sandwiches are easy to eat and leave little crumbs behind

Recipes:
Cream Cheese and Cucumber Tea Sandwich

• Bread - white, wheat, sourdough, rye (your favorite is best)
• Cream cheese
• English cucumber - or any type thinly sliced

Spread the cream cheese on each slice of bread. Place the cucumber slices on each slice - one layer, around 6-8. Cut the crusts from each slice of bread off with a sharp knife. Then, cut the bread in half diagonally and then cut in half again. Refrigerate overnight.