“His Holiness would like the olive oil sent to the Vatican.” So goes the traditional papal request for extra-virgin olive oil from Umbria. For centuries even popes recognized and appreciated the superiority of the olive oil from trees in this region and paid farmers to plant them on the middle hills, and in the chalky soil...
When you think of meals that freeze well, you usually think of casseroles. While the origin of the word “casserole” is French, this dish has been an American dinner time staple since the 1950s. Most casseroles use a standard list of ingredients: meat, poultry, or fish and vegetables incorporated in a soup (typically canned) or sauce, and topped with grated cheese or...
The gingerbread house is a wonderful tradition that is anticipated by both young and old alike; but buying a kit to build one can be very cost prohibitive, especially in these lean economic times. You and your family can still enjoy the fun and magic of a gingerbread house this holiday season by following the instructions...
It isn’t news that food prices are spiraling out of control. What makes it worse is that other living expenses are also climbing into the stratosphere, causing most families to look at their grocery budgets to see where they can make cuts to save money. While it’s necessary to take a hard line during these troubling financial times, you don’t want to have to...
It used to be, those that talked about healthy bacteria and probiotics were the health nuts who lived on granola and fruits and vegetables. Now, even the main stream food manufacturers are picking up the concept and incorporating it into their foods. Yogurts like Yo-plus by Yoplait and Activa by Dannon have hit our store shelves in...
Americans are becoming increasingly conscious of their salt intake. In some cases it’s due to a chronic health condition like high blood pressure. However, many more Americans are learning to control how much salt they eat as part of a proactive approach to maintaining good health. Just because you salt your food less doesn’t mean it...
This is the time of year when you find yourself having to entertain on a moment’s notice. Your first impulse may be to dash to a bakery and pick up some expensive confection. But before you put on your running shoes, why not try one of these desserts? They’re simple to put together and don’t cost...
Like kefir, cultured veggies are another great way to get healthy bacteria into our digestive system. Cultured vegetables are similar to the Korean dish of Kimchi, but not as spicy. They tend to be “bitey”, like sauerkraut, and there is a little bit of a mental block to overcome when consuming them, considering how they’re made...
