It's not surprising that this local interpretation of premixing offers a made in grandmother's kitchen taste. After all it was owner Evelyn Pihiou's memory of her grandmother's cooking that was the impetus for her namesake business which transforms traditional spice recipes into contemporary convenience.

"My grandmother Irene Moniodes made a special rice treat for family celebrations. So Yiayia's Special Occasion Rice Mix was our first spice and rice blend," Evelyn explained.

And that family flavor continues.

Father-in-law William Pihiou started the Greek Food Festival at All Saints Greek Orthodox Church in Canonsburg. Husband Pete suggested "cumin" was the taste flair for the "Cumin Lamb Shish Kabob Mix."

Though there is a definite Mediterranean influence on the collection, Evelyn says one of the most popular sellers is the gourmet meatloaf mix. The 8 ounce-combined spice and breadcrumb package added to one pound each of ground beef, veal, pork and one half pound ground sausage adds zip to a comfort meal. Also, Evelyn sells small spice packages which includes a Cincinnati Chili mix.

Evelyn' s Elegant Edibles uses rice and she buys as much of her spices locally as they can. The ingredients for each package are individually measured which Evelyn believes adds fresher flavor and consistency. With an eye on changing eating habits, she hopes to add brown rice mixtures in the future.

The mixes include recipes, instructions and ingredient lists and can be stored easily, thanks to the package's standup design. They are available at Trax Farms, John McGinnis Market in Castle Shannon, Savvy Fox in Peters Township, the Fox's Den in Houston and Washington and Canonsburg Shop 'n Save stores, as well as the Wednesday afternoon Mt. Lebanon Farmers Market. You can contact Evelyn at www.evelynselegantedibles.com.

Evelyn's recipe for Greek Rice Salad is one way to appease your cooking conscience when opting for convenience. You can add fresh tomatoes and onions to a salad which combines two of Evelyn's mixes.

Greek Rice Salad

1 package Evelyn's Elegant Edibles Popie's Pine Nut & Basil Rice Mix

Three quarters cup Evelyn's Elegant Edibles Athenian Spice Mix

1 large tomato chopped

1/2 large red onion, chopped

11/2 half cups feta cheese cubed

Instructions:

Prepare Popie's Pine Nut & Basil Rice Mix according to directions on package. Set aside.

While rice is cooking prepare Athenian Spice Mix according to directions on package. Set aside. While rice is still warm add the three quarters cup Athenian Spice Mix to the Popie's Pine Nut & Basil Rice Mix and stir well. Add the tomato, onions and feta cheese. Stir. Serve warm or at room temperature. This will serve 12. Variations: add cooked spinach, pitted olives, cauliflower or broccoli.