How to Spend Less Time in the Kitchen

• Double the recipes for soups, stews and casseroles. Freeze and store leftovers for later use.

• Spray knives with nonstick cooking spray before chopping raisins, dates and other sticky food.

• Clean counter tops, pots and pans as you go.

• Store dishes and silverware near the dishwasher for faster unloading.

• Start a file of meals you can prepare in 30 minutes or less.

• Use a seam ripper to open plastic bags and packages.