Curried Salmon or Tofu Fritters

I received my third MRI yesterday, so I suppose it's rather fortuitous that I'm not claustrophobic - given that in the past few weeks I've been repeatedly slid into the giant MRI apparatus to be surrounded by strange loud noises in tight quarters for 45 minutes or so. In fact, I may well be the only person who takes a nap while inside an MRI... I even used my scheduled MRI afternoon nap to justify staying up to watch the Olympic ice dancing on Monday night despite having to get up at 4AM for work in the morning! Thanks to the MRI, I also now have tangible proof that I possess a brain.

Apparently I am blessed with a functional brain, as well, for I am delighted to be able to report that my MRI was normal... This, of course, means that the mystery of my left leg, along with the strange neurological symptoms that sent me rushing to the emergency room last Thursday, still continues, and that I'll now need to visit the doctor's office every afternoon for neurological checks while the doctor looks for signs of "progressing symptoms," but, as this is relatively quite noninvasive I am more than willing to dutifully comply! I am trying to temper my frustration at the continued lack of a diagnosis, and simply focus on being thankful for each small victory, each normal test.

By the time Zach and I arrived home from the doctor's office last night, we were both in the mood for something cozy and uncomplicated, but part of me wanted to fix something fun and new as well, something refreshing and rejuvenating but still not too fussy... Fortunately, Gina of The Candid RD provided the perfect inspiration! Gina is always a wealth of information about nutrition, healthful living, and deliciousness, and this year she's gracing the blog-world with an incredible series of recipes based on pantry staples! I've been so excited about trying Gina's tuna patties recipe ever since she first posted them a few weeks ago... I especially love how Gina always includes suggestions for different versions of her recipes, and thus, based on the ingredients inhabiting our pantry at the moment, I adapted the recipe a bit, inspired both by Gina's base recipe and some of her variations, and came up with the most scrumptious curried salmon fritters! The flavorful batter also worked beautifully in a batch of tofu fritters, and by the conclusion of our leisurely supper we were feeling calm and restored once more... Thank you, Gina!!

Curried Salmon or Tofu Fritters
(Adapted from Gina's Recipe...)

25 grams whole grain rye crackers, finely crushed
15 low fat saltine crackers, finely crushed
1 tsp curry powder
3 egg whites, beaten
6 oz canned skinless, boneless salmon OR 6 oz firm tofu, crumbled
Cajun seasoning, to taste

~ In a large bowl, stir together the crushed rye crackers, crushed saltine crackers, and curry powder.
~ Stir the egg whites and the salmon or tofu into the cracker mixture. Season to taste with Cajun seasoning.
~ Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties approx 2" to 3" in diameter and 1/2" thick.
~ Coat a large skillet over medium heat with cooking spray. Cook the patties until golden brown on each side, turning once. Serve immediately, nice and warm and crispy!