Are You School Ready?

 Even though it;s the steamy days of August it's time to look ahead a few weeks to the new school year? Are you ready for those pre made lunches and dinners on the run? If not , you should be.It'll be chaos in the kitchen if there;s no plan.

Starting any school year can be nerve wracking. It's not just school starting but also soccer season along with continued music and art lessons from the summer. That means quick dinners that are easy to heat up. Should you start making them now? No but you can make up some componies now. Thsi si a great time to use those tomato harvests to make sauces, both for pasta and pizza. Yes you can make a pizza sauce with fresh tomatoes. They're usually Roma tomatoes cooked with olive garlic sauce, sugar , garlic powder and white vinegar. An easy Friday dinner is spaghetti and meatballs or homemade pizzas with a toppings bar. Those tomatoes can also be turned into a delicious homemade salsa using two kinds of tomatoes, namely ROma and any other kind. Fresh onions and jalapenos are also added. Imagine this one fun weeknight supper of brick layer  nachos full of ground beef and bacon along with cheese. You could also freeze zucchini slices or zucchini noodles  - zoodles for dinner later on.This is also true for eggplant slices .Make sure that the zucchini is cooked first and cooled before putting into into the fridge.

What about those older kids heading off to college. Most freshman don;t have kitchens in their dorms so you can get them a microwave. Some schools have what's called a microFridge unit - a small area that contains a fridge, microwave and sometimes a freezer, This does allow students to create nutritious vitamin packed lunches and dinners. Before they head off to college , go food shopping with them. Show them how to create good dinners using healthy and inexpensive veggies and meats. show them how to test for ripeness and what meat cuts offer the best values for the dollar. If the kids are college seniors them they'll probably living in their first off campus apartment. Make sure they have the right gadgets and tools. They should have a good immersion blender for creating soups and sauces. A crockpot is  a must because they can make stews and chilis in the ,morning and have a hot meal when they come home for dinner. Sheet  pans are also ah must have because they can make an easy dinner with all the trimmings just on one pan. These als double as cookie trays if they want to bake.

This is the time to start planning. Make some sauces now. Test your college senior's knowledge on cooking. it'll make for an easy transition into the  new.schhol season

Creating A Community With Food And Love

 The Cleveland Ohio area is not necessarily known for its' thriving LGBTQ community or for places catering to then. That's about to change thanks to neighboring Lakewood where there is a plan for inclusivity starting with a burgeoning food culture helping them. 

Erik Piepenburg ,who handles more of the New York Times' Arts sections and movie reviews wrote this interesting piece in the paper's Wednesday's Food section yesterday.The area is changing , and is more reminiscent of Manhattan's chelsea before it became gentrified. The Fieldhouse, a 30,000 square foot complex hosted a show headlined by some of the stars  such as MOney X-Change and Trinity the Turk of "Ru Paul's Drag Race . The complex's three restaurants are also getting their produce from a neighborhood garden tended by LGBTQ. They feel like they are finally part of the community according to Chelsea Brennan , a transgender woman who also did electrical installation at The Fieldhouse. The complex is just step one in this unification. The company behind it, Studio Wesr 117, headed by daniel Budish and Betsy Figgie will create a gay neighborhood with a new hotel, shops and a health clinic. It will be funded by one hundred million in both public and private funds. The company's partner is the Greater Cleveland Food Bank and the LGBTQ Community Center of Greater Cleveland.

Food is the main goal here. There are all sorts of classes at The Fieldhouse along with previews of the menus. The restaurants haven't opened yet but they are offering prviews of their dishes. Visitors enjoyed burgers topped with goat cheese from the area's Mackenzie Creamery and pizza, especially the pepperoni one called the Flirt from the complex's pizzeria Eat Me.There will also be a gastro pub called Muze anda rooftop  bar called The Trellis. There is also a food court of sorts for those attending games and events. The fieldhouse also boasts an intimate demonstration kitchen where there are all sorts of classes.At a recent pastry making class, drag queen Plenty O'Smiles iced cookies while teen-aged transgender boy Theo Crowfoot-Suede watched. Then Theo grabbed the piping bag and squeezed it just so to ice a pumpkin shaped ccokie. he and his mom Kim travelled all the way from Columbus to not only attend a fun class but to be amongst people like him. There was also a salsa making class for the group who tended the community garden , led by The field house's  pansexual assistant mananager Ms.Hulzing who goes by Ox.people of all persuasions enjoyed the salsa going home with printed copies of it.

Can The Fieldhouse be a model for future LGBTQ neighborhoods. Most definitely. It takes funds but also a community to make it work too.

Last Minute Super Bowl Party Dishes

 Tomorrow is one of the biggest days  of the season for football fans. Yet thanks to all the precautions, many fans are having impromptu parties, inviting over only a close few. That means getting some good party grub together in a hurry. Don't worry. There are plenty of dishes.

You can never go wrong with wings. It's even better if you have an air fryer to quickly cook them. You can easily go with Tyson's already prepared wings. This saves the time of having to prep them or going out for specific spices.There are also chicken strips which are perfect with a variety of easy to make dipping sauces. Add some hot sauce to ketchup for a zingy flavor or toss in a dollop of honey to mustard for a good home made honey mustard sauce.Vegans can go with Impossible Chicken's plant based nuggets. What goes with these? Try Tater Tots in with a cheese sauce. Again these are made tastier by crisping them up in the air fryer. The cheese can be melted in the microwave. Use Velveeta which melts nicely. Save the cheese sauce for warmed pretzel nuggets. Sliders always are a fast and popular party favorite. White Castle has the frozen ones complete with buns as does Gardein with their vegan chicken ones. You can also make mini patties using ground beef and instant onion soup mixed together .For extra flavor layer on cheese and bacon.  Serve on Hawaiian rolls.

Those Hawaiian rolls are also good at creating a wide range of sandwiches. It's super simple to get a wide array of cold cuts and cheeses for a make your own sandwich. Have bowls of extras such as sliced pickles, tomatoes , lettuce and peppers. Set out bowls, of ketchup, mayo and mustard too. A bit more elegant offering is a charcuterie board.Include salami, prosciutto and mortadella along with a  couple of loaves of Italian bread. Let guests slie the thicknesses they want. Also have a good smattering of cheeses. Provolone is a good choice because it pairs well with the salume and cheeses but you can also have some cheddars and spreadable cheeses like Brie and Camenbert. You can set out a pretty array of different crackers to go with the cheeses too along with cornichons, , pickled peppers and black and green olives. What's a Super Bowl party without chips , salsa and guacamole? Homemade salsa is easy to whip up as is guacamole.Use fire roasted tomatoes for a richer flavor along with chopped onions and green peppers. The guac can be made with tomatoes and onion powder. drop in some lemon juice to keep it from turning brown.

These dishes can be put together in an instant for a last minute Super Bowl Party. They're fun ways of celebrating without hours of cooking or prepping. Try them and let the game begin!!

Tail gating At Home

 Tomorrow is the Superbowl and that means partying. However it's a different kind of party with just the family.It still can be fun. Just make classic tail gate recipes, sit back and hope your teams wins.

Tailgaters love ribs, You can easily make a sheet pan version using short ribs with a spicy rub of cumin and red pepper flakes along with onion and pepper sauce. You could easily make a wet sauce , This is just an easy blend of apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar and honey. Some add molasses but that's up to you. add a splash of lemon juice and either hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat. You can use the sauce for burgers if you're also making them or save it for week night meat loaf. Wings are also a tailgating must.  You can oven roast them or do the easier air frying. Air frying them will give the skins an extra crispiness. Yes, they're good fiery but try them with a lemon pepper seasoning for a lighter, tangier taste. Lemon pepper seasoning is easy to whip up. It's just grated rind or zest mixed with ground pepper and then baked for anywhere from twenty five to thirty minutes. Sea salt is added later. You can also use this on grilled chicken breasts and fish too.Of course every football party has to have hot dogs. Make them extra special with the addition of a sharp cheddar stuffing. It's a nice change up from the usual dogs.

Every tailgate party has to have one or two dips. Yes you can make the usual onion one but you could also change it up with subbing in scallions and a little dill. Want to splurge on your family? Then try a crab meat dip that has jumbo lump crab blended with sour cream and cream cheese. Mustard, chopped onion and garlic powder are added for kick. This can be served with either Ritz crackers or potato chips. Sub in lobster meat and go easy on the onions if you want an over the top dip that's perfect not only on chips but crostini too.Tortillas and guacamole are a football party must. Guac is also an easy make. Cube two to three avocados and then mash with one minced vine ripe tomato. Vine ripes give the dip a rich flavor that pairs well with the avocado's buttery taste. Add a small drizzle of olive oil to give the dip a creaminess. Should you add minced onion which can be overpowering at times? Go for it if the family likes strong flavors. If not a small 1/8 teaspoon of onion powder mixed with garlic powder should season it nicely. Remember to add salt a pepper. salsa is another easy dip to create. Again use vine ripes mixed with minced red onions and garlic. Add a dash of hot pepper for some zing or pineapple for unexpected sweetness.

There may not the big Super Bowl parties of years past but there will still be parties. Treat your family to some tailgating classic as you root for your favorite team. It's a tasty way to still enjoy the big game.

Good Stress Eating

These are truly stress inducing times. Many of us feel eating helps to alleviate this non stop anxiety. The problem is we tend to eat the bad stuff - which can drive down our immunity. What to eat during these crazy days? Healthy!!!

Funny enough there are still snacks on store shelves. It's tempting to grab a few bags of chips and candy to get through these days. You can  - everyone does deserve a treat  now and then but limit what you eat. A better choice are tortilla chips and salsa. You can even make your own along with guacamole for a healthier choice. Homemade salsa requires sliced tomatoes , diced jalapenos, garlic and onions. If you like your dip mild, omit the jalapenos. Add finely diced pineapple and bell pepper for a different spin. Guacamole is another easy healthy dip. It's a blended mix of mashed avocado, Roma tomatoes (or any kind if you can't find them)along with cilantro and diced onions. You can sub in onion powder for the last if you find onions overpowering. Scallions are also milder but add a sweet onion flavor to the guacamole. Another healthy choice? Popcorn - of course and it will be welcomed for all these upcoming movie nights. If you can, get the Colonel Popper which is usually sold on Amazon. This lets you cook up a better bowl with olive oil and sea salt instead of the usual microwave packets laden with additives.

Anything sweet is especially alluring when you're stressed to the max. It's so easy to reach for those M&Ms and Junior Mints. Look, these are crazy , unprecedented times when all hell may break loose with the next day. Pop a small handful of these into your mouth to feel better and then focus on something a bit more nutritious. You still can have chocolate - but think about the darker kinds.These help boost your immune system thanks to the phenolic compounds which boost the effects of such Vitamin C and E along with the caretenoids. What is great about 80 o 90 percent cacao  is that the flavors can vary, with such interesting notes as raisin and coffee. Fresh fruit is a must during these times. Grapes are always a good nibble and kids love them. These tasty little  globes are full of resveratrol which helps fight inflammation. Keep in mind that wine also has this so knock back a glass or two to help you cope. Sliced apples and pears are also good sweet snacks. Dip apple slices in almond and peanut butters for a tasty savory-sweet treat. Strawberries are also good , especially dipped in dark chocolate however they're also great dipped in wildflower honey too.

These are the times for stress eating. Try to make those nibbles healthy with good for your snacks and sweets. These days are tough. You deserve a treat. Make it a healthy one.

The Veteran's Initiative

With today being Veteran's day, it's time to think of what we can do to honor them along with helping them.The best bet is working together as a community to make sure our vets are well fed and tended to. It may eve bring us together.

One of the best ways to honor them is reaching out. You can volunteer at veteran's homes , helping to cook and bake. Another pair of hands will be appreciated , especially when it comes to cutting and paring veggies.Also be on hand when the vets have birthdays, especially a milestone one. If you're a baker contribute a home made birthday cake or cupcakes, If they're on strict diets, then think about creating fruit bouquets similar to Edible Arrangements. They're easy to create , especially if you have metal cut out molds or paring knives. You can also contribute savory dishes such as veggies and dip or chips and homemade salsa. A homemade dinner is also a great way of saying thank you especially if you have vets in your neighborhood. It's also a great way of learning about history from someone  who has first hand experience. Another way of saying thank you is just taking him or her out for a meal or even a coffee. They'll probably enjoy the company more than the food.

The community can also come together to help vets. Think about having large communal holiday themed dinners like Thanksgiving at your schools. The school cafe or even gym can serve as the dining area. The cost can be diffused by turning it into a pot luck buffet. This is also a good lesson in inclusiveness as well. Have students and their families cook up or bake family favorites or heirloom recipes. It'll give vets a chance to try a possible array of Indian, Filipino and Caribbean dishes as well as such Thanksgiving classics as cranberry sauce and stuffing.  The students , especially the older ones, will gleam info about the country's involvement in recent wars. It may even inspire them to consider public service as a career choice. Another way of honoring them is having block parties. If the weather is mild in your area, then think about a holiday one. It's not just a good time for a plate of Christmas cookies but plaques thanking them for their service. Gift them with gift cards to their favorite restaurants or coffee houses like Panera, Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts.

Don't honor veterans just on today. Honor them everyday. They fought  like the heroes they are. Celebrate them always.

Two Peas Welcome You To Their Pod

Rare is the cookbook that appeals to both vegetarians and carnivore. Rarer still is that it's welcoming as an old friend and inviting as a much loved neighbor. Yet that's exactly what Two Peas And Their Pod Cookbook (Grand Central Publishing 2019) is. This is the must have cookbook for both experienced and novel home chefs.It has everything in it to create warm, homey meals everyone will love.

The book was written by vegetarian Maria Lichty with the help of her omnivore husband , Josh. It's based on their popular website of the same name.It mostly caters to parents. The Lichtys themselves have two little boys who figure prominently in both the blog and the book.Maria and her husband have pages dedicated to cooking with kids of all ages and what jobs to give them at different stages of their kitchen experience.I love this book. It has some of the best recipes I've seen in a long time along with endless pages of advice. There's also a sweet homeyness to it, reminiscent of Chip and Joanna Gaines give and take on their TV show. Fixer Upper. The chapters are slightly different than the average cookbook. There is one devoted to nothing but cookies!!!One of the most important is the one entitled "Helpful Things". This is a definite must read. There is a list of kitchen gear and gadgets that every kitchen needs to have along with his and her lists of the gadgets they can't live without. Maria shows how to organize the room with a pictorial. Tips on kitchen staples and the shelf life of spices are also included.Unlike other cookbooks the Lichtys also include grocery shopping tips.I like the fact that they recommend buying store brands instead of national ones and always taking a well crafted list. Check out the whole section on different types of parties at the back of the book.

The recipes are amazing. I love the vegan ones and will definitely be trying those out.There is spaghetti squash with broccolini, tomatoes and garlic bread crumbs, the perfect Saturday night meal with friends along with veggie full fried rice. The last is a great way of using left over rice and bringing in a slew of veggies to the dinner table. Josh brings meat recipes to the book. Chicken lovers will enjoy the chicken taquito recipe that also feature's Maria's favorite guacamole recipe.For the little ones Josh's sister , Whitney gives her crunchy and fun coconut chicken fingers. On the healthy side there is  grilled salmon with mango-avocado salsaThe sides are very tasty looking and two or three together could also provide an all veggie meal.There are also chapters dedicated to homemade soups and mouthwatering salads. - the last are another group of recipes I want to make. Then there is that whole chapter dedicated to COOKIES!!!!! Maria is a big cookie fan so there are all types listed. Of course there are chocolate chip cookies dusted with Malden sea salt for a sweet-savory kick and triple chip chocolate cookies. A great holiday cookie would be  her easy frosted sugar cookies. Of course there is a dessert section ripe with cakes and galettes. There is even an opening section on breakfasts that feature bars and breads like the chocolate banana one that would make for fun desserts. She honors her dad with his cinnamon roll recipe.

Buy Two Peas And Their Pod Cookbook now. This is a great must have for any kitchen library. It is chock full of good advice.

Time For Those Bumper Crops

It's getting close to late August and we all know what that means - bumper crop! We'll be inundated with extra tomatoes, zucchinis  and peppers thanks s to our gardens or ones that belong to neighbors friends and family.  What to do with them? There are dozens of recipes that can be used.

New York Times Food writer Julia Moskin had an excellent idea for vegetables gratins in her column in Wednesday's New York Times Food section. Fresh grown veggies are their tastiest  in this layered dish. It's similar to the winter dish potatoes au gratin in the sense it's layers cooked in a skillet. The summer one has a base layer of onions and peppers.A second layer has zucchini and squash along with Parmesan cheese and pieces of fresh  French or Italian bread.(stale just won't  do). Also cook the veggies either by grilling or broiling before hand  otherwise you'll ind up with a watery half cooked pan of veggies. Another great idea is getting a spiralizer if you don't have one already . You can turn all those zucchini into healthy "green" pasta, whether making it with a pomodoro sauce or a healthier version of pad Thai. The zucchini noodles are just good sauteed with only garlic, olive oil and some butter or margarine. Stuffed zucchini is another great meal and treat. These can be filled with chopped meat, a mix of bread crumbs and tomatoes or a spiced rice mixture. Another idea that's sure to be a classic is zucchini crust pizza. This is when shredded zucchini is mixed with egg or egg whites to create a kind of crispy omelet and a base for tomato sauce and cheese.

Tomatoes are also abounding right now. What to do when the farmer in your life drops off  more than a few? Think sauces for the fall and winter. You can make it for anything , from pizza to pasta. Cooking the sauce is probably the most labor intensive which usually takes anywhere from half an hour to ninety minutes.Keep in mind that the shorter the cooking time the thinner the sauce but with a fresher tomato flavor.The longer the cooking time, the thicker the sauce and the flavor is more of a cooked taste. Tomatoes can be served in an easy crudo sauce for now. It just cutting up tomatoes, letting them marinate in olive oil and garlic as the pasta is being cooked. Orange zest, capers and hot pepper flakes can be added too for extra flavor. Extra tomatoes and peppers can also be turned in a fresh salsa, perfect for pool parties and barbecues. Toss in some chopped jalapenos for fire  or if you want a milder one, add some pineapple chunks or a dollop of honey. Those extra peppers can also be stuffed too with beef, chicken or even turkey.Mix the meat with wild rice  and herbs for extra flavor. Peppers can be charred and served with an anchovy or bagna calda sauce for a Piedmontese summer favorite.

Don't freak out at getting a bumper crop of fresh veggies. There's a million good recipes out there that can be made with them. Enjoy the bounty and the good food that comes from them.

Your Five New Mother Sauces

Sauce - any sauce is an important component in any chef's arsenal. They can liven up a dull  slice of meat or add zing to drab veggies. They can be creamy or chunky, spicy or herbal. Best of all, they're pretty easy to whip up.Even the most novice of cooks can make a decent, flavorful sauce.

Samin Nosrat, a writer and top chef, wrote about the five new "mother" sauces in today's New York Times Food section.The idea is taken from the French with their five main  or "mother" sauces. The famed  19th Century chef Auguste Escoffier  laid out the blueprints for  them in his encyclopedic textbook Le Guide Culinaire published in 1903. (The book is still in publication and can be bought at Amazon.com) He borrowed the sauce recipes from another great French chef of the early 1800's, Antoine Careme,one of the first truly great chefs, from Paris established the basic sauces: bechamel,espagnole,veloute, hollandaise and tomat. Gently tinker with them and voila - an entirely new creation. Add shallots, chervil  peppercorn and tarragon to hollandaise and you have bearnaise. Grated Gruyere stirred into bechamel will create Mornay, the classic cheese sauce that livens up chicken and  savory crepes. Chefs adhered to these sauces and combinations for decades. The only problem with these centuries old gems is that their base is a heavy roux - a mix of butter and flour. The new group of sauces get away from that heaviness with lighter ingredients. They 'll make any meat or veggie a bit livelier , instead of weighing them down.

What are the new sauces? They're not French, instead taking their heritage from the Eastern Mediterranean   Northern Italy and Mexico. Chef Nosrat starts off with a basic herb salsa. This is the most versatile of the sauces because it goes well with the main course and sides. It's  really nothing more than a parsley vinaigrette, sort of like a salsa verde or chimichurra sauce.You  can sub in basil, cilantro,marjoram or even mint for a different spin, The next sauce is a creamy  tahini sauce. This Greek and Arab  classic is made with tahini paste, ground sesame seeds along with one garlic clove.The last is finely grated into the other ingredients.It goes well over fresh tomatoes or sliced cukes but also dresses up chicken and lamb. Yogurt sauce is the third sauce Use the lighter Greek yogurt , blending it with fresh mint, olive oil lime juice and garlic. Drizzle  it on chicken kabobs or roasted eggplant. . There is also the basic pesto sauce. It is the Genovese classic, made with fresh basil, olive oil and pine nuts along with garlic and Parmesan.  Serve on any kind of pasta or added to a pizza. The last is a black pepper salsa. This involves guajillo and arbol chiles mixed with tomatoes and garlic. This sauce can be poured over meats or a spicy addition to any taco or tortilla recipe.

Each of the new "mother" sauces can make any dish better. They''re easy to make, only using a few ingredients to create a delicious addition to any meal. Try them all , Put them in your arsenal They're what you need to create memorable and flavorful recipes.

Fermenting Your Diet

Many home chefs think that fermenting foods is an elaborate and complicated process.It really isn't thanks to a new cookbook that pares it down to an easy science.Anyone , from novice to expert transform simple cabbage into sauerkraut and tea into kombucha.

Fermented Foods At Every Meal (Fair Winds Press) is both an interesting guidebook and cookbook on the basics of fermentation and the recipes that spring form the fermented foods and beverages. Hayley Barisa Ryscek, the voice behind the healthy cooking and natural lifestyle blog Health Starts in The Kitchen, as well as being the author of several healthy eating cookbooks wrote this fascinating book She is big on fermentation, we all need it in our diet to protect ourselves and maintain our gut health. It also leads to longevity as in seen in Japan's Okinawa Archipelago where many live to 100 years and beyond. . The first chapter explains the difference between prebiotics and probiotics and why we need to increase the former's intake.There's an interesting section on the science of fermentation too as well as suggestions for what foods and cultures to buy. Everything is spelled out from what tools to use in the process to steps in the recipes. The chapters are divided by the cultures such as creme fraiche followed by recipes that use it and fermented ketchup (!) and its' many ideas. Another great thing about the book is the ever helpful hints that are highlighted in bright gold. These provide first time fermenters with valuable tips.

This is not a typical cookbook where there are chapters on meals, snacks and sweets,Each one starts out with the featured culture and the recipes that follow them. There's also a history included too. Creme fraiche lovers  will love its' chapter with its' how to make and ferment along with such recipes as berry topped chevre cheesecake cups, cherry compote ice cream, and cheesy beef stuffed baked potatoes topped with it. Kefir is a must make fermented drink that also has its' due. It's used mainly as a drink but it's also in the tasty chocolate peanut butter banana breakfast smoothie as well as in a creamy cole slaw .Of course there's a chapter on the greatest fermentation of all-  sauerkraut. Surprisingly enough it's just cabbage ribbons fermented in sea salt and its own juice. Surprisingly also is that it''s not just for accompanying bratwurst.It's put into smoothies  and a hash made with sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. There is a bratwurst and sauerkraut recipe but livened up with quinoa. Kombucha is a big drink right now and there is a chapter on it . There are fun ferments such as ketchup and chutney along with salsa. perfect for giving a summer party a healthy kick. There's also a chapter dedicated to yogurt along with such fun recipes like strawberry banana yogurt to go tubes ,smoked salmon spread, lamb kofta with herbed tztzakiki and frozen yogurt bark,

Fermented Foods In Every Meal is a great book for those wanting to have a healthy probiotic diet. The  how to s are easy along with the recipes. It is a must have for every kitchen and for every home chef interested in fermented foods and drinks,

A Super Bowl Party For Everyone

It's going to be Super Bowl Sunday in two days and by now every party thrower in the country should be well stocked.Or are they? Unfortunately there is no one guest's tastes fits all. There will be allergies and limitations to deal with , let alone likes and dislikes.

Dips are high on any Super Bowl Party list. There's nothing like a creamy, spicy guacamole to enjoy,but what about those guests who have gallbladder and pancreas issues? Avocados , as I sadly found out recently are on the do not eat list.What then? Hummus! Luckily most restricted diets endorse garbanzo beans , along with any other beans. If the taste is too intense, then mix a can of cannelini beans with chichis . Drain and puree the white beans first, then drain and puree the chickpeas. Mix together with a tablespoon or two of light olive oil. You can add the juice of half a lemon for freshness. This is a great , delicately flavored dips that's far from heavy . Serve with toasted pita wedges. Now what about the crunchies? Many have gluten allergies  and again, those with stomach problems , can feel discomfort with regular crackers. It's time then to try the glutin free . One brand, Crunchmaster has excellent ones that are not only free of gluten but also cholesterol and saturated fat free. I love these and they and the white bean hummus have replaced tortilla chips and guac for me. Salsa is another tasty party dish however it can be too spicy for some. Try a milder one with fresh tomatoes and just bell peppers. You can add chopped onion for more flavor but if it's too much then just add a dash of dried onions or onion powder. Have a dish of sliced jalapenos on the side for those who want to add heat to their individual scoops of dip.

Everyone loves wings - or do they? Many people are on diets that ban them. Try roasted ones that have been marinated in lemon or garlic. Grill roasted chicken is tastier anyway and has a nice crispy bite to them. Another point to consider is that some people cant have the skins because they're full of fat. Try grilled chicken or turkey breasts instead. You can serve them on home baked gluten free rolls with a smear of tarragon laced Nayonnaise This last is an egg free soy based condiment that can sub in for mayo. As for the rolls there are several recipes on line you can make If chili is your Super Bowl go to , then you can make several different kinds. Purists will go crazy for a four alarm beef one. However you may have fusspots who are not into having the roofs of their mouths seared or their diets ruined with beef. Try a turkey or chicken one with maybe half the heat. You can also sub in vegan beef crumbles too. Everyone loves a pepperoni laden pizza to much on during the plays. Yet eating it can cause your guests to reach for the Pepto Bismal. Go for the margherita style which has fresh tomatoes, a scant covering of mozzarella and a big  dose of basil. Also the old fashioned  cheeseless or Nonna pizzas are also very good. it's a thick crust topped with a good dose of onion laced tomatoes.  

A good Super Bowl party caters to  everyone. Make sure you;re ready to deal with likes, dislikes dietary restrictions and allergies. It may cost more and be more labor intensive but the end result - happy guests - is worth it.

Healthy Nibbles

With school starting up soon  kids are going to be noshing and nibbling like crazy.The problem is eating right.What 's the perfect one? The healthiest choice, of course!

Any kid of any age loves finger foods.Yes, they may reach for the pizza rolls and head to McDonald's for nuggets.
These  are great maybe once in a while for fun however the best bet is go homemade. Instead of the store bought pizzas use whole wheat English muffins with fresh tomato and low fat mozzarella.Drizzle with olive oil and bake in an oven or toaster oven for fifteen minutes at 325 F. Sprinkle fresh picked basil on for more flavor. As for those chicken nuggets, think soy which are lower in calories but big on flavor.Morningstar Farms has them and they taste like the real thing.Create a home made honey mustard by mixing antioxidant rich honey with mustard. You can also make a homemade salsa to go with it.This can also go well with whole wheat tortilla chips too. Julienned peppers and carrots are great nibbles too when paired with spiced Greek yogurt. Add a dash of cumin or curry powder for zip.

Kids are hard wired for sweets.Its easy to reach for sodas and candies to boost up flagging energies.Try flavored waters like Hint that really do have a hint of flavor or the BAI juices and sodas. Both are only five calories each and come in a varieties of flavors like dark cherry and dragon fruit. Try all natural cookies like Back To Nature.They have a wide variety of types to choose from such as Oreo like sandwich cookies along with mint and peanut butter ones. This is still summer so have plenty of plum's, peaches and nectarines on hand too.These make excellent snacks and are easy to carry to activities. As the season progresses add in apples and pears too. Apple slices dipped in cinnamon are a great snack .  Keep snack cakes, cookies and even sugar drenched energy bars out of reach.If there are protests explain that sugar is no good and will make them too hyper.Steer them towards more natural sweeteners like dark honey, stevia  or agave nectar.

Snacking can be both fun and healthy.Make sure good for you nibbles are on hand. Your students will thank you for it .

Your Spring Snack Guide

Spring brings a lot of changes.we dress lighter, We should eat lighter and we should snack lighter as well.Those whipped cream topped hot cocoas and cupcakes may have been great as we were bulking up for the cold however they may be heavy and calorie rich  during these warm days and nights.It's time to change to less dense treats.

One of the best snacks, both in cold and warm weather is popcorn . It's a better alternative to potato chips and dip .it's full of fiber and taste, perfect for filling up during games or a day at the beach.Another plus is that's it's easy to tote around - and if you have any left over is perfect for feeding the birds.a great Saturday night snack is nachos. The winter saw them piping hot with cheese and maybe chili on them. Go light  with a homemade salsa of chopped tomatoes, jalapenos and onions. You can even use this for crackers or a fiery spin on bruschetta.English muffin pizzas were also a great Sunday night supper or snack. Sub the canned sauce for fresh chopped tomatoes and replaced the heavy mozzarella with a hearty sprinkle of Parmesan. another healthy filler is cottage cheese blended with chopped veggies. Add some broccoli florets along with cut up snow pea pods  along with a few grape tomatoes and diced onion. Add a good dahs of fresh cracked pepper and a tiny dash of sea salt for more flavoring.You can also cut up soy hot dogs and wrap crescent dough around them for a low cal version of pigs in blankets.

This is the season of first harvests. That means fresh batches of peaches , strawberries and blueberries. Eat these when you're craving something sweet. They're full of fiber and vitamins,perfect after a winter of cookies and snack cakes. Fruit can be grilled too and it can be easily turned into shish kabobs. Brush the skewered pieces with honey before you put them over the fire.The fruit of the season can also be mixed into Greek yogurt for a nice pick me up at the office.As the temps shoot up you may be tempted by ice cream or even those whipped cream topped iced coffees. They may be cooling and a treat however they are fat bombs just waiting to go off. stick with ices or low calorie ice cream treat.You can even semi freeze bananas and strawberries and then have them with  chocolate syrup and low fat whipped toppings. As for the coffee- stick to iced black for a refreshing change. You'll taste the full rich flavor of the beans that way along with being enervated. You can also q8unech your thirst with BAI all natural juices and soda They're fresh and fruity, having only five calories each.

It's spring and that means lighter fare for snacking. enjoy ,kw calories sweets and treats as the temps  rise. You'll not only feel satisfied but also rewarded with good for you snacks.

Treat Your Heart Well

 We know how to treat our sweethearts on Valentine's Day bit do we really know how to treat our own sweet hearts? A good gift is healthy but fun eating, that delivers a Cupid's arrow of both nutrition and flavor straight to us.You can not only eat something yummy  but also one that's packed with benefits.

Dips are always a neat way of enjoying a  snack Imagine a big bowl of one and munchies as your and your sweetie enjoy a romantic movie..One of the most .  flavorful and easiest to make is guacamole. Avocados are especially heart healthy being loaded with potassium and also lutein for the eyes .Add mashed tomatoes, chopped onions and a tablespoon of olive oil for a superfood dip that's extra smooth and creamy.Salsa is another treat and it can be made both sweet and savory.  For a tasty sweet one take  a mix if strawberries , oranges along with pineapple chunks and mangoes  and coarsely chop. Add some stevia to sweeten and a squirt of lemon juice to keep the fruit fresh to finish it off. Serve with cinnamon tortilla chips which are tortillas rebaked with a brushing of bitter and a dusting of cinnamon and brown sugar on top. Savory salsa can be made a variety of ways with everything from fiber rich black beans to tomatoes to one just made with onions and scallions. Pretzels can be a fun snack especially when they're served with homemade honey mustard. Use a good mustard like Colmans and dark wildflower honey. The last is bursting with antioxidants and enzymes.

Romantic meals can also be good for  both your heart and sweetheart. Spaghetti (remember Lady and the Tramp) can be enjoyed with a good wine and candleight. Try a whole wheat pasta as opposed to a white flour based type.as for the sauce, again tomatoes are full of phytonutrients such as folate and lycoprene. For fun make a primavera sauce, This is a quick saute of not only tomatoes in olive oil and garlic but also , broccoli, cauliflower and onions,Indian  food is also good for the heart. Curries are chock full of the spice cumin. Not only is it delicious and addictive but its' also  rich in iron and antioxidants.You can also make masoor dal, a lentil paste that's loaded with turmeric and can be served with naan bread. This is a superfood meal if there ever was one.Lentils can aid in controlling diabetes along with helping dieters to lose weight,Tumeric is a spice, like cumin that can reduce the risk of certain cancers like colon and breast as well as fighting arthritis and Alzheimer's disease. Of course nothing beats a grilled salmon dinner  and again served with gilled veggies is a meal that's good for both the heart and the brain.end with rich deep  dark chocolate or better yet strawberries dipped in chocolate.

Treat both your sweet heart and your heart good today. Give both tasty foods that are rich in flavor and nutrients, Both will appreciate it.

Super Healthy Snacks For The Suoer Bowl

The Super Bowl is always a day geared towards snacking .There are platters of buffalo wings, endless pizzas and plates of sliders or pulled pork.These may be tasty but they,re a fumble diet wise.You can still score, but with healthier sandwiches and treats.They're the touchdowns of the day! One of the healthiest game day treats is a sub sandwich.You can start with a base of whole-wheat bread and then add on healthy lean meats like chicken or turkey.For even more of a bonus, think soy cold cuts.These come in a variety of flavors,from pepperoni to baloney and taste pretty much like the real deal.Make a simple dressing of just oil and red wine vinegar as you also layer on shredded lettuce, onion slices and low fat Provolone and American cheese.A warmer dish is vegan chili.This can be made solely with a variety of beans or again with a soy version of beef.You can make it as hot or mild as you want.Serve with polenta, brown rice or whole-wheat tortilla chips. Pizza is another Super Bowl fave.You can make your own with pita bread and fresh tomato quarters along with a minimum of mozzarella cheese. Add some heart healthy toppings such as mushrooms, scallion, artichoke hearts and olives. bruschetta, usually reserved for more formal affairs is another great nibble.Again go for whole wheat Italian bread and mix tomatoes capers and bell peppers to create a topping.You can serve them hot with a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.Prefer more South of the border?Then think chicken or tilapia tacos with guacamole and minced fresh veggies to put on top.Hold the sour cream and pour on the home made salsa . finish with fresh fruit kabobs, made from apples, oranges and grapes.Serve these with a honey sweetened Greek yogurt. Make your game day a winner with healthy nibbles and bites.Serve dishes that are bursting with vitamins and minerals.You're sure to touch down with high points for staying away from all that grease ,salt and fat!

Mom Approved Snacks

Kids will always love snacks .It's especially evident during the school year when they're on thier own. Activities or just hanging out can increase their appetites and cause them to munch. Sometimes they wind up going for the wrong foods. It's best to get them right on track . After all a healthy diet  means a healthy kid.

Younger ones, tweens and teens love salty snacks. Chips are always first on the list and if they have to have them, then think the baked kind (Lays makes these) or even Pringles. For a healthy dip try  just plain Greek yogurt. Add minced onions and scallions to make it a fancier one. Another good idea is chips and homemade tomato salsa. You can  slice up  tomatoes and onions along with minced peppers for the last. Serve with whole wheat tortilla chips. or even home made pita chips. Kids love anything snack sized. Have chilled baby veggies and a wholesome olive oil based dip waiting for them when they come home from school or sports.

The little (and not so little ones) love sweets too. Instead of candy and cookies, serve fruit chunks with a side of  , again, Greek yogurt.If you still can't get them to eat fruit, then think apple slices with a caramel dip. This is not the healthiest but if it gets them to eat something good for them then go for it.Juice pops, made with fresh squeezed juice is a nice cooler on those Indian Summer days.You can also add seltzer to the juice to create an all natural soda pop. If they do want cookies, then look for all natural ones like Nature's Path. There are no additives and the ingredients are all organic.

Snacks are a part of any kid's life. Have healthy ones within reach to ensure better eating habits. It' makes for sensible eating any time of day or night,

Steak And Salsa A Good Pairing

Nothing beats a good barbecued steak. Done the right way it can be heaven. Nothing also beats a good side, however but  by now we're all tired of  the usual slaws and sides.Why not a salsa, one with a fruit base as something different  and fresh.

Melissa Clark of The New York Times Dining section tackled this just yesterday in her A Good Appetite column. She takes a flank steak, which is a great piece to grill and gives it an unusual rub. Hers is one of orange juice mixed with chili powder and oregano. This gives the meat a charred  spicy exterior and a sweet juiciness on the inside. It should be marinated a full 24 hours so it can fully soak up the chili powder. Ms. Clark recommends using a New Mexico kind,It has a deep fruity undertone that will work well with the juice.

The salsa that is served with it also has fruit. Pineapple chunks are mixed with  the red hot jalapenos along with tomatillos.Onions are also added for another layer of sweetness. Each is individually grilled and then mixed together. The fruit caramelizes and this sweetness is a perfect foil for the state. You can also serve sliced avocados or a simple corn or even a potato salad as well. If you want to vary the fruit then try mango cut into chunks.

This is the season for throwing  a few steaks on the grill.Try a fiery fruity rub to bring out that meaty flavor. Pair it with the same kind of salsa and you have a dream meal. There's nothing like a good cut , graced with a heaping of heat and sweet.

That Amazing Ear Of Corn

Now is the time when farm stands and farmer's markets are well stocked with ears of corn. These are wonderful and versatile additions to any summer table. Corn  can be made into almost everything , from salads  to desserts even. Every August tables hould have this multi purpose veggies in some form.

Fresh picked corn on the cob is one of the best warm weather pleasures.  Have it slathered with a lemon or herb butter  to bring out its' sweetness. It can be easily steamed in the microwave or over the stove, boiled in large pot. However the easiest and best way to bring out its' flavor is to grill over an open . You can or  add some red pepper flakes to bring it some bite try a mix of olive oil and rosemary for a mellower , different flavor,instead of butter If you feel that eating corn on the cob may be too messy, simply slice off the niblets   and serve them  warm. You can add a cream for a variation of creamed corn. Take this idea a step further and turn it into an ice cream.  The flavor is both sweet and smoky  and a neat way of ending that summer barbecue.

Of course you can also take the niblets and turn them into a salsa, salad or even relish for a tasty salsa, Mix grilled niblets with charred tomatoes and jabaneros,  Corn salad is also a alternative to potato salad or cole slaw ., One way of making it is with black and red beans along with crunchy onion and pepper bits. Since corn has such a strong taste , simply serve with a red wine vinegar based vinaigrette. Even better is a relish. Try one with both red and green peppers this time along with such spices as turmeric and celery seeds. Making relish does require canning skills so if you're not experienced with this process, then stick to a corn salad as a side.

A few ears of corn are a possibility of dishes waiting to happen.Have them just plain and delicious , roasted on the grill. If you want variety then use them in any sides for a more interesting barbecue  or  in ice cream for a truly uniquedessert . This is the season for these golden spikes ,. Enjoy when they're  sweet and sunshine yellow, ready for eating.

Healthy Teen Treats

Nowadays teens have so many options food wise. However they will be what they are -teenagers who go for everything and anything unhealthy How do parents get them to eat the proper food? Make all those veggies and fruits fun. They can still have great flavor but this time it comes with a lot of hidden antioxidants, minerals and vitamins.

All kids love crunch, They go made for anything that makes some kind of noise.Potato sticks and chips fit that description perfectly. The one problem - they're not good,thanks to all that salt, fat and starch.Think about making the healthier Brussels sprouts and/or kale chips. These are easy to make and they can be flavored with sea salt or fiery cayenne pepper for some jolt.Popcorn is another "safe" snack however researchers have found that  the air popped kind is the best because it doesn't have a coating of transfat laced product that most kernels have.Pretzels are good but instead of the regular kind think of serving whole wheat. The same for tortilla chips. Some brands offer whole wheat and with salsa, it makes the ideal snack.

What about meals? Teens have certain tastes as well, rooted in childhood favorites. Easy enough too. Think about changing over to whole wheat spaghetti and turkey meat balls instead of the regular " white "kind with beef meatballs.Pizza can be made as well with whole wheat flour. Sub in veggies as opposed to cheese for something different or even grilled chicken mixed with a rich tomato sauce. Mexican food is one of the healthiest cuisines and a teen favorite. Chicken or fish tacos are fun and easy to make.Just nix the sour cream and go easy on the guacamole.Add more of a choice of veggies like pepper strips or for something different asparagus spears. They get a fun meal but with more vitamins and antioxidants added.

Teens can eat fun and healthy at the same time.Introduce healthy foods in fun ways and they'll forget about the junk. Seriously. They will.

Mexican Dogs No Not that Kind

There's a new craze happening in America;s Southwest. Everyone is going crazy for Mexican dogs, No not Chihuahuas but hot dogs South of The Border style. Surprisingly this area treat is easy to make and actually based on a 1950's American idea

Mexican dogs are just hot doge wrapped in bacon and usually grilled. It was a popular recipe that hot dog companies like Oscar Meyer promoted back in the early Fifties. Somehow the Mexicans got hold of it and liked the idea. Their version includes guacamole and salsa covering the go(no chili like what you would expect). The roll is a hardier Portuguese roll which is more like a mini baguette. Hot do rolls are not used because they would be too flimsy when holding all that good stuff.

Mexican dogs are easy to make. Just wrap strips of bacon around a hot dog and broil or grill. Grilling them over an open flame could be dangerous because of all the bacon fats melting overt the coals. Be careful when cooking them and watch out for any sudden bursts of fire. You can als add homemade guacamole or if you want a Fifties turn put a slice of American cheese or cheddar on them. The roll id up to you. Serve them on a hoagie for a better base or try a sturdier hot dog bun such as Pepperidge Farm's.

Mexican hot dogs combine American food with Mexican flavor. They're easy to make and fun to eat.grill up a few today for some South of the Border taste.