Frozen Blueberries and Other Things
These aren't really a hack, per se, just awesome. I eat them plain, usually, still frozen perhaps with a few minutes' defrost to soften a little. They have a definite creaminess(?) that is a good substitute for the mouth feel of a premium ice cream and an intense, complex, tart flavor. Unlike a premium ice cream, though, they are very low in calories. An entire bag (about $3 when purchased on sale) has no more than 300 calories. Give them a try just like this. If you still crave the ice cream, you can add just a little bit. I may be a heretic on this but I prefer them still frozen to fresh. Last year when the farms in Joisey were selling fresh blueberries cheap to my local megamart ($1.50/pint, often), I would buy a bunch, wash, dry and freeze in a zip-top bag....
Here's an easy dinner for your special someone:
-ribeye or shell steak, pan-seared and finished in the oven
-broccoli rabe, blanched and sauteed in garlic, olive oil, sea salt and fresh black pepper
-roast parsnip
-fresh crusty rolls warmed in the oven, with real butter
-frozen blueberries and ice cream
-a nice shiraz
Simple, elegant and takes no more than 30 minutes.

