ONCE a year, pancakes enjoy a special slot in people s dinner diaries, but don t bury those frying pans just yet. If you re short on cooking time, pancakes can make a nutritious meal to be enjoyed at any time of the year. For heart-healthy batter on Shrov

ONCE a year, pancakes enjoy a special slot in people's dinner diaries, but don't bury those frying pans just yet. If you're short on cooking time, pancakes can make a nutritious meal to be enjoyed at any time of the year.

For heart-healthy batter on Shrove Tuesday (Feb 24) reduce the saturated fat content by using semi-skimmed or skimmed milk. Eggs provide protein, vitamins and minerals and are high in monounsaturated fats that help promote healthy cholesterol levels. By choosing wholemeal flour, or a mixture of half brown-half white, or oatmeal, you will increase the fibre content, which is great for the heart and for feeling full. Get those arm muscles working as you whisk up a frothy batter and cook with a teaspoon of rapeseed oil or spray oil.

Choose your fillings wisely.

Main course pancakes ideas

� cooked spinach with low-fat cream cheese;

� thin slices of ham, cherry tomatoes and cottage cheese;

� curried vegetables;

� tinned salmon, lemon juice and pepper.

Pudding pancakes:

stewed apple and blueberries;

yoghurt, strawberries and oats;

grated pear and cinnamon;

finely chopped tropical fruit salad;

sliced banana and honey.

Pancakes can be easily made and enjoyed by young and old. Whiz up some batter and experiment with heart-healthy fillings for a satisfying and fun meal at any time of the year.