Periodically, because I believe too few of us know what a true serving size is, I have listed some visual images you can use instead of measuring cups or scales to approximate a serving of food. The original list is HERE. Since the last list was published I've come across or created additional descriptions. Consider putting these in your brain as a reminder that a serving of food is rarely what you think it is:

• One pancake = size of a CD
• Slice of bread = size of an audiocassette tae
• 1/2 cup serving of vegetables = 6 asparagus spears, 7 or 8 carrots
• One medium sized fruit = size of a tennis ball
• 1 1/2 oz. cheese = size of a 9 volt battery
• 2 Tablespoons of butter = size of a ping pong ball
• 3 oz grilled or baked fish = size of your checkbook
• 1/2 cup = mashed potato scoop

If you don't have measuring spoons, your cupped hand would hold about 2 Tablespoons of liquid (maximum to put on a salad).

Bon Appeitit!