April 20, 2006
as seen in "The Dinner Diva" syndicated column
by Leanne Ely

      One of my favorite things to use during the grilling months (and here in the South, grilling starts in April!) is marinade. Or mare-in-nod, as Martha enunciates it. Marinades are an easy way to a fabulous dinner and require very little work. They do need time to work their magic, however, but it is easy to do when you've worked this easy step into your morning routine.

      Here's the no-fuss, no-muss way I do it. First of all, I use those big zipper-topped plastic bags from start to finish, no matter what the recipe says — that way, there's virtually no cleanup, and when you're done, you pour out the remaining marinade (IMPORTANT: This stuff is a germ fest!) and toss the bag (don't get frugal and wash it — if it had meat in it, it's virtually impossible to get it clean enough. Out it needs to go!).

      To make marvelous marinade you need these three things: an acid (like lemon or vinegar) some flavor (garlic, herbs and spices) and a little oil (I like olive oil). The world is your oyster when you keep these components in mind. You can make your own marinades out of what you have on hand. They're very forgiving concoctions, too — no need to measure and worry over getting it "just so."

      And here's something I just learned about this delicious way of grilling. Marinating your meat before grilling is safer than just throwing your chicken or meat on the grill. I am sure you have heard about the dangers of grilling and carcinogenic dangers lurking on the barbecue. Well, recent studies have shown that carcinogens are significantly reduced in grilling when the meat has been marinated. The reason? Could be the antioxidant-rich marinade is full of phytochemicals — those naturally occurring substances that fight cancer. Researchers aren't entirely sure, but they do know that marinades do work for reducing carcinogens.

      What I am sure about is this recipe. You're going to love it!

Garlicky Ginger Lime Marinade

Remember, if you can't stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen and barbecue instead!