7 Slow Cooker Desserts For the Time-Pressed

Slow cookers aren't just for stews and soups (Wikipedia)

You've been craving that peach cobbler you devoured at the church banquet, a friend's party or your mother's table. Deep down inside, you know you're not a baker. More important, you either don't have the time or don't want to invest the time to make this down-home dessert. But that doesn't stop your cravings for a warm, slice of cobbler topped with yummy ice cream.

You're stuck with going to a grocery store and buying a frozen cobbler or praying someone has pity on you and bakes you one. Well, not quite.

Even though my first love of cooking comes through baking, I don't always have the time or energy to prepare desserts for myself or guests. I, too, have had to dash to the local grocer to grab a cake, pie or tort for parties or because I was time-pressed. To solve that problem, I've found or created different recipes for really simple, quick desserts. They're just as satisfying as the ones that take several hours to prepare and bake and, in some cases, are less fattening. One of my favorites in peach cobbler in 15 minutes. I'll have to share that one with you later.

But I've found several dessert recipes for those facing similar time, talent and mood challenges. What I like about these desserts is they are all baked in a slow cooker. Yes, the kitchen gadget, sometimes called the crock pot, best known and appreciated for cooking soups, chili and stews. This makes having that dessert accessible just about anytime for the most baker-challenged and busiest among us. You whip up the ingredients put them in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you shop, study, nap, clean up or finish whatever else you need to do.

Now, that brings a smile to my face.

Freshen Up Your Meals With Herbs

Dill with flower buds (Wikipedia)

During the summer, I cook with fresh vegetables and herbs grown in my garden as often as possible. It's one summer activity I wish I could do year-round because of the savings and the flavor fresh herbs and vegetables add to food.

Three herbs worth trying, especially for newbies, are basil, dill and parsley. They can be used in a variety of dishes as garnish and/or flavoring. I use fresh basil on all my homemade pizza and spaghetti sauce. I use parsley as a lettuce substitute on tacos and in salads.

Harvested Dill (Wikipedia)

Dill flavors my pasta salads as well as rice. Most people use only dill fronds, or leaves, but this herb's tip through tail as well as its flower can be used in cooking. For more information on how to use dill, read this article.

5 Steps To Easy Mandarin Orange Chicken

Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken

If you're looking for an Asian dish to include in your line-up of meals, consider Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken. 

This dish is so easy you can get away with making it with two ingredients: the chicken and rice. And it still will be a good, filling meal.

But on to my original recipe. While the rice and chicken are cooking, saute green onions and sweet peppers. Once the rice is pulled off direct heat, add the sauteed vegetables to the rice and stir. Let sit two to three minutes while you coat the chicken. 

The bag offers quite a bit of chicken for the price, under $8, and cooks in about 30 minutes. Two sauce packs are included in the bag. But given the amount of chicken, another pack is needed so be sure to coat the meat slowly.

Plate the food. Rice as the base with chicken added atop. Dinner or lunch is served.

I was pleasantly pleased with this meal because it was enjoyable and easy to prepare. It is the most convenient meal-in-a-bag I've cooked so far. 

What's Your Favorite Ice Cream Flavor?

Ice Cream (photo credit: Toni)

Every so often, go off the rails! Do something you probably shouldn't. I say that with a wink and a smile.

But really. Be decadent. Buy rather than create. Don't count the fat or the calories and ignore the pricetag. You don't need an excuse or an emotional escape. You deserve it -- every so often.

I'm not a chocoholic. I don't have much of a sweet tooth. But when I decide to be food-naughty, as I like to call the behavior, I splurge on a summertime favorite -- ice cream. And not just any flavor.

I love Haagen Dazs' Rum Raisin ice cream. It makes me smile. It was No. 1 on my favorites list until I recently discovered their Bourbon Pecan Praline flavor. I have to confess. The first night I tasted this treat I ate the entire carton.

Yep! I have to own that one. I cleaned that carton down to the crevices, a first for me. But this flavor is so good I'm tempted to write the company and plead for it to move from limited edition to a regular. It is that good. Maybe, I'll just post something on the company Facebook page.
My advice: If you see it in your grocery freezer, grab it. You will not be disappointed.

I've read America's most popular ice cream flavor is vanilla, which has switched places with chocolate during the past few years. Those flavors are followed in ranking by butter pecan, Rocky Road and Neapolitan flavors. Neither one of those has ever made my favorites list.
 
My favorite flavors in this order are:
Bourbon Pecan Praline
Rum Raisin
Pralines 'N Cream
Dulce de leche

What is your favorite flavor?

All Hail A Big Cheesy Smile For Cheesecake Day

Sweet Potato Cheesecake (photo credit: Toni)

I know I'm a bit late for National Cheesecake Day, which was Wednesday, but this delightful dessert deserves a post and my commentary. Seriously though, I planned to post something earlier, but life happens. What can I say.

I admit I learned late (the day before) there even is a National Cheesecake Day, an American observation every July 30. While I'm not surprised, I can't believe I didn't know that and not because I'm a walking ball of food knowledge. It's because so many of my friends and relatives absolutely salivate over this decadent treat. And I do mean salivate. I, on the other hand, enjoy an occasional slice of smooth, rich cheesecake. But I wouldn't put myself in the addict-lite camp. I use that description lovingly, my friends and guests.

So in homage to the cheesecake, which was the preferred cake of Greek brides and grooms a long time ago, I offer these humble but popular recipes. I also recommend you give this enjoyable sweet potato cheesecake a try at Tamarind, a local Thai restaurant in the South Loop. A review on the restaurant is coming shortly (a few days).

Tamarind's sweet potato cheesecake is smooth, creamy and pleasant. The baker definitely got the texture right for this dense cake. Its flavor is more savory than sweet, which is to say if you like the taste of a sweet potato sans any flavorings and butter you will love this cheesecake.

I like Tamarind's cheesecake, which offers a pleasant departure from the super-sweet desserts offered at many restaurants. If I were to change anything, I suggest they increase the amount of caramel sauce and sweeten the cheesecake a tad. After all, we are talking about the sweet potato. Must I explain more.

Read about the History of Cheesecake
Cheesecake Fun Facts

Try These Cheesecake Recipes:
Cheesecakes by Eli's
Cheesecakes by Junior's
Cheesecakes by Kraft's
Cheesecake bars for the children

Is Your Must-Haves Grocery List Costing You Money?

Supermarket (photo credit: Wikipedia)

More than a decade ago, I realized how much food (and money) I wasted regularly because the items were unused or barely used by the expiration dates. So into the trash can went whole gallons of unopened milk or loaves of bread. I felt wasteful and irritated I was throwing away money.

I was pruning my closets and cleaning my refrigerator one day when it hit me. I looked at the amount of stuff, much of which I didn't use or had forgotten I had, that surrounded me. It was an epiphany -- truly. I was barely aware I was purchasing so much food routinely without thought or question. I just "thought" I needed to buy those items each time I did the monthly grocery shopping, which was when I purchased just about everything during one trip.

I put "thought" in quotation marks because there really was little thinking occurring. I was shopping by conditioning.
You ask, "What is shopping by conditioning?"
It is shopping by habit, which is to say we buy things we have been taught and/or told we need or must have in our cabinets and refrigerators without question or re-evaluation.
Are you nodding your heads in agreement, acknowledging that insanity?

Well, we all do it. But what will you do about it once you are aware? Years ago, I stopped purchasing milk, bread and eggs unless I had specific plans for using them. I would buy the smallest sizes available such as a quarter of milk or a half dozen eggs when I did. I applied this pruning tactic to every food item I purchased. Through refining this process, I discovered and developed MY "must-haves" in my kitchen. It is a quarter of the size of what I had prior to the eye-opening exercise.

I've maintained that awareness since then and evaluated my must-haves list with each life stage or major life event. Several factors, including the recession and a return to gardening, have heightened my awareness even more. So imagine my surprise when I discovered "extras" while cleaning my refrigerator. They were primarily condiments: jar of peppers, deli mustard, etc. Ka-ching, the universal sound for spending came to mind. Though minor, those extras are reminders must-haves lists have to be refined often. And so I will.

Create A Must-Haves List 
There are various ways you can create a must-haves grocery list. Here are a few:

*What I did: I examined my refrigerator and cabinets, taking note of what's there and what's not. I also noticed how long items had been in either. Using a process of elimination and assessing my true eating/cooking habits, I established my list. Things I use infrequently I only buy when I'm going to use them.

Other Options:
*Look through your refrigerator and cabinets, noting the items you are out of and those that remain but are unused or rarely used. Your observations will help form the list.

*Make a list of the items you use frequently: milk, butter, bread, etc. Keep it simple. This is your initial list. Confirm or refine it over the next 30 days as you shop, cook and eat.

*Make a list of the items you use infrequently and make a list of the items you rarely use. Check your cabinets and refrigerator for these items. Move this to your buy-as-needed list, meaning you'll purchase the day you plan to use the item.

Let me know how this works for you.

Test Your Knowledge of Italian Food Terms

A selection of delicious Italian foods

Shouldn't you know, at least, a few of the terms used for your favorite foods?
I think so. That's why I'm sharing with fellow lovers of Italian food this nifty article with easy-to-remember words and phrases whether you speak Italian or not.
 
I love good food no matter its origins. But Italian food is just one of my favorites. I absolutely love seafood and Asian dishes. I'm smiling now as I think of the dishes I plan to cook tonight using my wok.

The article has inspired a future "listicle" posting: Terms Everyone Who Steps Into A Kitchen Needs To Know. Hmm, that will be fun to write as well as educational. Look for the post soon. And if you have any suggestions for what to add to the listicle, a list crafted into an article, post a comment or send me a note.

7 Minutes To The Perfect Boiled Egg

Perfect Boiled Egg

OK, I know some folks are snickering about this topic: How to Cook the Perfect Boiled Egg. But I assure you, it's a bigger deal than you think.

Think not. I encourage you to watch the Worst Cooks in America show on the Food Network. Some people can't boil water let alone an egg.

Aside from providing a primer on how to boil an egg for the seriously challenged, I think it's important for the rest of us to get it right.

A boiled egg is the "anytime" meal in America: It's fine for breakfast, snack, lunch or dinner alone or as part of something else such as a green or tuna salad. If boiled eggs are under or overcooked, they can ruin your appetite or a meal.

So how do you make a perfect one? 
Fill a pot of water, enough to cover the egg. Turn on the stove to medium heat/flame. Let the water come to a rolling boil then use a spoon to lower the egg into the water. Start the timer or keep an eye on the clock because 7 minutes goes by fast.

Turn off the pot at 7 minutes and remove the eggs or let them sit no longer than a minute in the water. Place in a container to cool off before peeling. The yolk should be a pretty firm yellow and the white a smooth but semi-firm exterior. The shells will slide off pretty much. Now enjoy.

How do you know if it's overcooked? The shell will be stuck or hard to peel off. The egg white will be rubbery, and the yolk hard with a stale taste or similar to the powder egg flavor.

How do you know if it's under-cooked? The shell will feel delicate. The yolk will be a bit runny, and the egg white will be watery and loose.

Simple Desserts In Less Than 30 Minutes

Key Lime Pie with Strawberries

Everyone has a little "Betty Crocker" inside of them. Your Betty may not be as knowledgeable as the home cooks' pseudo kitchen coach, but she surely has as much ingenuity as the dame synonymous with baking.

Don't believe me? Try making this simple recipe for Key Lime pie.

Ingredients: 1 graham cracker pie shell, 1 can of Key Lime pie filler. 1 container (16 oz or so) of whipped cream. Optional: Fruit or lime slices to top.

Instructions: Mix (with a spoon) the pie filler and about 1/3 of the whipped cream until blended. Pour the mixture into the pie crust. Cover and let cool in the freezer for at least 5 hours. When ready, top with garnish or fruit then serve.

Hmmm, you think. I know. I thought the same thing. But I gave it a try because truth be told I don't like Key Lime Pie. I've had it twice -- both were made using the longer more involved recipes -- and I did not like it.

But I really wanted to give this popular pie another chance. I reasoned perhaps the bakers were not up to snuff. And because a relative had given me the pie filler, which he said was pretty good, I decided to try making the pie myself. I also reasoned that perhaps the can-made pie might be tastier.

Well, no such luck. I'm still no fan of the Key Lime pie. It has nothing to do with the pie, which came out perfect. It was smooth and firmly molded. I've come to accept the fact I just don't like Key Lime pie.

But what I do like about this pie is it's incredibly easy to make, which makes it perfect for parties and last-minute gatherings whether you like Key Lime or not. You can set your "Betty" loose with this easy dish and be the toast of the event. Wink.

More longer Key Lime pie recipes:
Lagasse's recipe
All Recipes

Can You Find Fresh Food In A Jar?

The Grape Escape Salad

Chances are you're on the go a lot if you live in a metro like Chicago. Lunch is where ever, sometimes whenever, you can grab it.

What's available may not be the best thing for you. So a healthy lunch is a luxury some days. That is unless you have the time or discipline to pack a lunch, which brings up a host of other issues.

It shouldn't be so difficult or such a hassle.

That's the thinking that prompted Luke Saunders to create Farmer's Fridge, an organic and vegetarian company offering healthy meals in a jar. Yes, a jar.

The Cheater (opened)

Hold on. It's sold via kiosk-vending machines. Unless it's catered.

And the food is simply delicious.

The start-up opened November 2013 with a vending machine in the food court at 201 N. Clark, Chicago. I came across this salad in a jar while attending a Wix workshop on website design trends.

I've had The Cheater and The Grape Escape salads. My favorite so far is The Cheater, simply yummy. I couldn't wait to eat more of this salad. The Grape Escape can use more grapes and a less bitter dressing, but it still is a good selection.

You'll be pleased about supporting a company conscious about the quality of food it serves and the packaging that contains it. The food is organic and made fresh daily. The containers -- plastic jars -- are recyclable and reusable. I love it!

Besides the good food, this is a great concept. Luke identified a problem then found a solution. Great ideas often are simple ones.

Aaah, Summertime In The City!

Pritzker Pavilion

Chicago is a great city for singles as well as the coupled ones. There's always something to do, especially in the summer.

Though summer officially is 7 days away, you couldn't tell in Chicago. That's because festivals kick into high gear, marking the arrival of summer in the city.

Twelve (yes, at least that many) festivals and fairs started Friday throughout the city, and just about all of them are free. The weather is beautiful -- sunny and warm -- and the people are pleasant. Food at these gatherings? Authentically Chi-Town.

Big Jack Johnson, '09 Chicago Blues Festival

The festivals are a celebration of this city, warts and all. They are a reflection of the values, cultures and similarities. One of the best ways to get to know Chicago is through its celebrations.

Summer in Chicago is simply splendid! You've got to give it a try. Here are a few recommendations:

Taste of Randolph (West Town)
Chicago Blues Festival (The Loop) Aaron Neville hits the stage Sunday night
Puerto Rican People's Day Festival ( Humboldt Park)
Thai Festival 

And The Finalists Are......

Not long ago, I told you about Trader Joe's call for entries into its Miso Master recipe contest. The grocer wanted recipes highlighting its mild yellow miso in just about anything so long as it took 30 minutes or less to prepare.

I confess I did not submit one. But apparently plenty of other folks did.

I don't know how many entries the grocer received. But seven of them were good enough to advance to the next round for a final vote by the public. I cast my vote already, and I encourage you to do the same here.

Miso Soup

3 Ingredients To A Tasty Summer Treat

Blue-Cherry Yogurt Pops

Yes, all you need are three readily available ingredients to create what I call pops of happiness. I call them that because once you taste this blueberry treat you can't help but smile.

I originally planned to share a recipe for Key Lime pie, but I saw this frozen treat and switched gears. It's too easy not to share. All you need: handful of blueberries, 2 cups of plain yogurt and 1/4 cup a sweetener. No lie.

This isn't my creation or idea though I plan to co-opt the base ingredients and make something distinctively mine soon :-). Credit goes to Splenda. See the Sweet Swaps, No. 128 recipe here.

Blueberries and Cherries

Once the mixture is done, pour into a mold. Now is a good time to buy the molds, which are available at most dollar stores. Freeze for at least 5 hours.

Options:
Sweetener: I use and prefer agave. You can try honey also.
Mold: Use an ice cube tray and add wooden Popsicle sticks.
Fruit: I used blueberries and cherries. Use fruit that will "hold up."

Mixture in molds

Ingredients mixed

                                               

You Deserve A Doughnut Today!

Krispy Kreme doughnuts

You deserve so much more than a doughnut, but you'll take a free one won't you?
Good.
So will I today, which is National Doughnut Day!

Don't worry about falling for another "made-up" another day promote consumerism. It's really a day created by the Salvation Army to honor men and women who served the treats to soldiers during World War I.  So when you bite into one of these goodies, you'll be supporting a good cause.

Well, at least that's what I'll tell myself.

Krispy Kreme is offering a free doughnut of any kind. No purchase necessary. Now that's a freebie.

Dunkin' Donuts is offering a free doughnut with a cup of coffee. It's not much of a deal because you usually get this after making a purchase and completing an online survey. Dunkin isn't going out on a limb for this one, but hey it's "free."

Whatever the conditions, enjoy your doughnut today.
By the way, what is your favorite doughnut?

How To Turn A Ready-Made Meal Into A Homemade One

Mandarin Orange Chicken

So I'm sure you're wondering "What in the world is this post going to be about?"
Many times you come home, and you're just dead tired. You don't want to exert yourself too much or think too deeply.

Too often in those cases, we either skip meals or grab the junk food -- potato chips -- or the processed stuff -- Ramen noodles -- just to give our bodies some sustenance. And though this fills our bellies and gets us through the night, they not exactly the best choices. I'm guilty of this eating sin far tooooo often myself.

So I've started searching for ways to make quick meals or those requiring a couple of steps or ingredients. My latest find is the Mandarin Orange Chicken available at Trader Joe's for less than $5. The bag has at least six servings. The chicken is seasoned well and comes close to tasting like orange chicken at the restaurant.

Cook pasta or rice (preferably brown) at the same time you bake the chicken. Depending on the type of rice you get, the chicken can be done close to the time the rice is ready. At this point, I'd serve the chicken atop the rice with a side salad.

But if you want to add a few more flavors to the dish, you can cook bell peppers with the rice to add another layer. Or you can saute bell peppers, onions, and fresh garlic in olive oil then add to the rice. Then serve however you want.

If you have quick-meal tips, send some my way.

The Golden Arches Signal More Than Burger And Fries Around The Globe

Mickey D's Golden Arches symbolize America's No. 1 burger joint. Everyone knows once the arches are spotted burgers and fries are not far away.

But McDonald's serves millions of people across the globe, and the food on the menus goes way beyond the traditional beef pattie in America. Have you had the lobster roll served at McDonald's Canada restaurants?

"Say whaaaaaat," you shout. Yes, I said lobster roll. And there are several other items you've probably never tried. Check out this fun compilation by BuzzFeed to see what else you're missing.

Review: The Scout, Part 2

At some point, hopefully before the football season starts, you'll get a chance to check out The Scout in the South Loop. If you do, don't be afraid to try something out of your comfort zone. More than likely, you'll enjoy your picks. You can read my review of The Scout by clicking here.

Here is my take on a few other dishes I tried during another visit. The Scout's prices are moderate so expect to shell out $10 to $19 for a meal, which usually includes two sides.

I've had wine and beer at the eatery, but I didn't pay enough attention to the libations to rate the offerings. The red wine was fine; the dark craft beer I tried was a bit too bitter for my taste.

Other Items:

Black Angus Pot Roast

Black Angus Pot Roast: Get it. No discussion really needed. This flavorful roast rests atop mashed red-s
kin potatoes. I've had this one twice, both times equally delicious and filling. Price: $14.

Slider Trio

Slider Trio: This sampling of buffalo chicken, angus pot roast and short rib teaser has more bun than meat. Make sure it's served hot. For the price, you're better off getting a complete meal. Price: $12.

El Mirano: This is a decent burger made with chorizo, fontina cheese, roasted poblano peppers and avocado. I didn't taste much of the chorizo however. The avocado topping gave the burger a buttery finish. I swapped regular fries for the sweet potato fries. Price: $12.

Click here to read my first review.

How To Give Steak Flavor Panache

Steak and fries by LWYang

Some say a steak cooked and seasoned well has all the panache it will ever need. But do you buy that? Do you think a steak can never get boring?

I agree there is nothing like the perfectly cooked, juicy steak, especially after a beautiful summer day. It is an eating experience that lingers in your memory for a long time. But I think even great things can get dull and your taste buds tire of the normal.

Here is a recipe for kicking that steak into another gear. What I like about this recipe is that it doesn't require much work or lots of additional steps or ingredients to give the steak a new dash of flavor.

Your thoughts or tips about steaks?

Review: The Scout Offers Great Food, Atmosphere and Service



BBQ Pulled Duck with Sweet Potato Fries

I've walked or driven by The Scout on South Wabash numerous times wondering what it was and what it offered. I even pigeonholed it as another overpriced sandwich shop. Boy, was I wrong!

I, along with my friend Melissa, ventured into The Scout on what was one of those rare sunny days this year. I was immediately impressed and happy with our selection. The restaurant -- even its open floor layout -- was inviting and nothing like I expected.

Spicy Green Beans

The South Loop establishment is a hip neighborhood restaurant with a bar and big-screen televisions for watching sports. To call this eatery a neighborhood bar and grill would be a disservice. Even to call it an upscale bar is a bit misleading. The food alone in this joint places it in another league, which neither a bar and grill nor upscale bar can fully claim.

Seating is plentiful and appropriately spaced so you're not squeezing by another diner. Natural light streaming through the huge front windows makes you forget about the bar in the back and side or the TVs positioned throughout the restaurant. Staff and patrons are cheery and friendly. I think that natural light helps.

Now the food! Melissa ordered the Black Angus Pot Roast with red-skin mashed potatoes. It was a moist and well-seasoned dish served in a pewter kettle bowl. I ordered the BBQ Pulled Duck with aged gouda on a pretzel bun. My sides were sweet potato fries and spicy green beans. My meal was scrump-dilli-cious; yes, I just made up a word.

What impressed me was everything on my plate was tasty, even the sweet potato fries, which I've never taken a liking to until now. Two small issues I had with my food -- a tad overcooked beans and unmelted gouda -- were minor. I left nothing on my plate.

Would I recommend this place? You can tell by this point, right. Will I return? No doubt, whether it's to watch a game or just grab a bite to eat while hanging out or passing through the South Loop.

The Scout Review, Part II

Alcohol-Free Wine Widens Your Drinking Options

Fre non-alcoholic Wine

What purpose does non-alcoholic wine serve? I wondered that, too, as I walked by a Target clearance rack with bottles of Fre wine had been relegated.

I guess that is a sign the line of wines didn't win over Chicagoans, even those residing in the gentrified South Loop. Still, I was curious partly because I drink wine -- containing alcohol of course. So I sacrificed the markdown price of about $5 or so for bottles of Red Blend and Brut.

I've tried the Red Blend, which tastes similar to Welch's Red Grape Juice Cocktail but not nearly as sweet. It is a clean, crisp wine with a smooth finish.

Though it's obvious alcohol is missing, you know you're enjoying a sophisticated adult drink. This makes Fre Wines perfect for making non-alcoholic mixed drinks during the summer or for events like baby showers.

So will this win over wine drinkers? Not likely, especially for wine sans alcohol retailing around $11-$12.
Fre Wines most likely will appeal to non-drinkers, social drinkers and those who are transitioning away from alcoholic drinks.

Add International Flair To Your Breakfast Plate: Swap Bagel With The Crumpet

Cinnamon Crumpets by Toni

A smile flashed across my face and memories of my college professor flooded my brain when I came across this common European breakfast item in Trader Joe's a couple of days ago. Though I was walking through the store still shopping, I was giggling inside. Finding a respected teacher's favorite snack --  crumpets -- also brought back memories of optimistic, youthful times.

Crumpets, commonly eaten in the UK, are served for breakfast, brunch and snacks. It's a cousin of the English muffin, which I also eat occasionally. Crumpets are eaten whole most often. Some prefer to cut them in halves like muffins, but I find that incredibly difficult because crumpets are formed like mini, thick pancakes.

 English muffins and crumpets are healthier alternatives to bagels in case you are wondering.So this morning's breakfast is an homage to University of Iowa Professor John Bennett, who died several years ago following a long illness. I'm sure he'd be proud of my steak and crumpet breakfast.

Ingredients:
2 crumpets (toast them)
Ribeye steak (quick fry)
Butter and syrup (optional, but best:)

Calling All Miso Masters: Trader Joe's Contest Will Crown A Winner

   Miso Soup by Adonis Chen

So you think you have what it takes to win a recipe/cooking contest? You don't know, you say. Ha, me either! But I MIGHT enter Trader Joe's Miso Master contest to test my skills.

The grocer is accepting entries for its Master-at-Miso Recipe Contest, which ends 11:59 p.m. May 27, 2014. The recipe must showcase the store's mild yellow miso in anything from appetizers and desserts to meats and soups.

You must use the grocer's ingredients, no more than 7. The dish can take no longer than 30 minutes to prepare. Read more here. 
Winner gets a $100 Trader Joe's gift card.

Check Out Chicago's Neighborhoods And Craft Breweries

Uri Tours

Chicago Craft Beer Week wraps up Sunday, May 25, just before Memorial Day. If you're looking for something to do or have wanted to explore craft beers and neighborhoods in the city, now is a good time to do it.

More than 300 venues are participating by offering specials on rare beers and hosting a variety of events e.g. Pints for Pups at The Olympic Tavern. You can bring your four-legged pals today to the tavern. For every Lagunitas beer sold, 50 cents will be donated to Canine Corners, Rockford's off-leash dog parks.

Or enjoy some rare selections from top brewers across the country on the craft beer cruise Thursday offered by Mystic Blue Cruises.

Read here for more information about the city's 5th annual Craft Beer Week, including schedules, maps and popular events..

A Sweet and Tangy Salsa To Try

 Salsa is one of the quickest and easiest dishes you can make completely or partially from scratch. Once you start, it is difficult to return to store-bought options because they don't seem to measure up to anything you can make.

 I make salsa from scratch using tomatoes, cilantro, onions and peppers all grown in my garden. It is the freshest and tastiest salsa I've eaten. Partially-homemade scratch salsa includes canned ingredients such as chiles and tomatoes.

  I also have grown strawberries, but I've yet to use them in a recipe. I don't think I would have thought to add strawberries in the salsa, but the recipe below has inspired me to try a few different twists.

 I have plenty of salsa at the moment. It will be awhile before my tomatoes are ripe so I won't be trying this recipe any time soon. But I hope someone else will and shares their thoughts on the blog.

Where To Find The Best Stock

Most of us buy stock from the local grocer and only think about making this flavoring during the holidays or other special moments.

I do both  -- buy and make stock flavoring -- depending upon my mood, available time and the occasion. Each type (homemade vs. store-bought) has its advantages and disadvantages.

Homemade takes time to make. Store-bought often contains too much sodium or additives you can do without.

Homemade essentially is made from leftovers from the other dishes, which I consider positive recycling. Store-bought is an inexpensive purchase and saves time.

You get my point; there are trade-offs no matter which type you choose to use.

I think everyone should try making stock at least once and then decide which type works best for them. I cooked a duck recently (more about that later) and made stock, which I plan to use in a dish this week. It was unbelievably easy to make and has lots of flavor.

Here's a "recipe" to a DIY chicken stock, which also appears to be incredibly easy to make. I like this one because you can essentially make this in your sleep.

Why You'll Need More Green In Your Wallet

Well, we already know beef prices are expect to increase this summer as are pork prices. Now, another news reports predicts we'll have to pay more to eat "greener." So those fresh melons, strawberries, grapes, corn and packaged salad will cost more to enjoy.

The price hikes are the side effects of California's three-year drought that shows no signs of slowing, according to the Wall Street Journal. I know that's not the news you want to hear, but you can start preparing early by modifying your eating and/or purchasing habits.

You should not eliminate fresh produce from you diet even if the prices jump outside your spending comfort zone. Use the alternatives to fresh produce, including frozen and canned fruit. Frozen fruit is an excellent substitute for fresh fruit and has a longer shelf life. Canned items also are solid alternatives to fresh goods.

This latest news affirms summer may be challenging, but not impossible.

Iceberg Lettuce Fights To Bring Its Sexy Back

Iceberg lettuce sits at or near the bottom of the leafy food chain when it comes to taste, eye-appeal and nutrients. And though it tends to be among the most affordable among leafy vegetables, it has become the lettuce of last resort.

That is until recently.

Fans of this always crispy, fresh salad staple are trying to put the iceberg lettuce back into the spotlight and help it regain some of its once-wide popularity. In the 60s, 70s, 80s and early 90s, iceberg enjoyed wide approval among the salad crowd. It lost ground once restaurants, including fast-food joints, upped the ante on offering memorable, quality salads.

I don't buy iceberg, which once was a common item in my refrigerator, at all. It's not even on my last resort list for burgers or sandwiches. I'm not anti-iceberg lettuce, which seemed ubiquitous during my youth. I just prefer the many other flavorful and versatile lettuces available now.

But I must admit, a recipe I recently found has me reconsidering my long-standing banishment of this vegetable. I'll let you know if I give it a try.

How To Make Unforgettable Iced Coffee

I often wondered why I enjoyed drinking iced coffee at Japanese restaurants more so than any home brew I made or at American cafes. After watching a video on making iced coffee, I think I know why.

It's all in the temperature. .
"Huh," you say while scratching your head.

Apparently in order to lock in the aromatics and sweetness found in Japanese iced coffee, it must be flash-brewed first rather than made hot, allowed to cool then pour flat over ice cubes. Still confused?

Check out this video on how to make iced coffee Japanese style.

Setting A Table For The Single Diner

I discovered an interesting and complementary blog to A Single Table while I was researching on the Internet. It's called A Table for One, and it's definitely worth checking out. The bloggers offer colorful and fun suggestions for table arrangements, which they call tablescaping, for the diner who wants to set a table even if they are dining solo.

 

Their most recent arrangement, A Very Orange Tablescape, was inspired by recent record temperatures in California. Try some of their suggestions, and you'll never feel like you are dining alone.

Well done ladies! Well done.

Simple Pleasures: Starbucks Offers 50 Percent Off Drinks

I hadn't enjoyed a caramel frappuccino in more than a year. I'd avoided the delicious drink because of its cost and calorie count. Well, there is nothing I can do about the calories. But Starbucks addresses the price tag issue with its Happy Hour campaign that offers 50% off drinks from 3-5 p.m. daily.

So instead of paying $4-plus for a grande frap, I pay a little more than $2. That's a reasonable toll for a little slice of heaven during the day. Today is the last day of the campaign, which started around May 1. So I'll be sure to get my other favorite frap flavor, strawberries and cream, before 5 p.m.

How about you?

Simple Pleasures: A Cup of Coffee

Some days this is all that is needed. Today is one of the those days. Don't forget to enjoy the simple pleasures: Setting aside alone time for yourself.
This cup of Joe and the solace drinking it brought me was what I needed apparently.
What do you do when things get a bit hairy or hectic?

Cup of Coffee in Solitude

How To Make Strawberry Margarita Jello Shots

Happy Cinco de Mayo! For followers who want to party today.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Bring Grins and Great Memories

It's Chicago weather like we've had of late -- cloudy, gray skies and intermittent rain -- that makes me yearn for simple comfort food. On that list is probably one of the first items I learned to cook successfully as a youngster: Grilled Cheese sandwiches.

Just saying, "Grilled Cheese sandwich" makes me smile and recall fond childhood memories. There is nothing complex or over complicated about this sandwich, probably explaining why it always feels like the right meal at the right moment.

Oh, but don't be fooled by its simplicity. Your imagination can run wild (as mine is now) with the various ingredients you can use to make a sandwich. Kraft Foods offers several variations worth trying.

I think I'll first try Kraft's Grilled Cheese Margherita, a delicious spin using basil --one of my favorite herbs-- as an ingredient.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo With Cupcakes

Americans will celebrate Mexican heritage and pride primarily by drinking and eating on Cinco de Mayo. Though alcohol will flow freely and tacos, enchiladas, nachos, etc. will be plentiful here, Mexico designates Cinco de Mayo (Fifth of May) a minor holiday.

Because Cinco de Mayo falls on a Monday this year, some will mark the occasion on Saturday, May 3. Chicago, home of one of the largest Mexican populations in the country, will celebrate with a weekend of activities in the Little Village neighborhood.

Regardless of when you celebrate it, I encourage you to try this Cinco de Mayo-inspired treat: Strawberry Margarita Cupcakes. Yum!

The No. 1 Drink To Make During Summer

Lemon-Lime-Blueberry Infused Water by Toni

Summer is just around the corner, and I --  like most people who have survived the long winter that is nipping away at spring --  am looking forward to the sunny days. I'm also looking forward to enjoying some of my favorite drinks while sitting in my garden (more about that later) after a long day of work.

Homemade sweet tea and lemonade along with Mojitos and Daiquiris are among my favorites. This year, I'm adding homemade infused water to the list. It's super simple and refreshing!

I don't have to tell you how important it is to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months, or how good water is for your skin and hair. You know those things I'm sure. That doesn't make water any sexier or appealing.

But water, like anything else you've consumed repeatedly, needs an occasional upgrade. Homemade infused water is the way to go. Not only do you select the ingredients you prefer, fruit or vegetable, you save money by using items you already have on hand or use regularly and you help the environment by recycling a bottle for the infused water you make.

How could you not give it a try after learning about all those benefits?

Ingredients:
Any available fresh fruit in your refrigerator: I used lemon and lime slices and blueberries
1 re-purposed bottle: I reused a cherry juice bottle
Water
Splenda sweetener or something similar is optional. I passed on the sweetener, just a personal choice.

How Anyone Can Make Simple, Healthy and Quick Meals

Given the number of cooking shows and contests flooding the media, you would think a culinary degree with a specialization in exotic spices is required to make an eye-pleasing, delicious yet quick and healthy meal. Not so. 

As much as I enjoy watching the cooking shows and chefs with engaging personalities, sometimes the recipes offered are overly complicated, time-consuming and costly. Even the "quick meals" they often touted have way too may steps or ingredients. It can take the fun out of cooking and enjoying the meal, which is counter to A Single Table's purpose. 

All you really need is curiosity, a willingness to experiment and an appreciation for good food. Some of the most satisfying meals I've eaten also have been the simplest to make with common (items found in most cupboards) ingredients and a few steps. 

So today I offer this salmon salad with dried cranberries and a fruit bowl. This meal contains the flavors, textures and items I like. 

On the plate:

Pan-fried (in olive oil) salmon steaks

Romaine lettuce

Dried cranberries

Sliced almonds 

Homemade pomegranate vinaigrette (instructions here)

All the items purchased at the Dollar Tree store except for the lettuce, which I got from a local grocer.

In the bowl:

1 sliced banana

2 sliced strawberries (mine were extras from a previous dessert I made)

One memorable meal within 30 minutes for pennies. Yeah!

Four Household Items That Protect the Environment and Your Pocketbook

You'd be surprised to learn many household items serve dual or multiple purposes beyond their common uses. You'll be excited to know using them can save you money, protect the environment and extend the longevity of your belongings.

Today, in honor of  Earth Day, I'm sharing homemade concoctions to help you do the same. You'll want to make these solutions a permanent part of your cleaning routine whether you continue to recognize Earth Day or not.

Unclogging Drains and Freshening Sinks

If you've noticed your has started to drain slowly and you can't pinpoint a reason for the slow down, it probably is time to "flush" the drain. By flush, I mean clean/dissolve the materials that clump together and clog drains.

Some people call a plumber immediately. Hiring a professional to unclog your drain is expensive and may not be necessary. Some people will grab a solution like Liquid Plumber, adding to the amount of chemicals in the ecosystem. I use a simple homemade solution from items in my cabinets. It's safe, easy to make, consistently works well and allows me to repurpose items -- saving me money.

Here's my solution, which I use for regular maintenance:

Pour 3/4 cup of baking soda down the drain followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Plug or cover the drain for about 30 minutes (I sometimes let it stay overnight). Rinse with hot water.

Got any tips to share? Please do.

Watch  To Find the Four Household Items That Protect Earth and Home

                                                   

How Do You Spice Up The Sausage Sandwich?

We've all been there: You're hankering for something different, beyond the routine. You peer into the refrigerator and find only the standards --eggs, bacon, milk, sausage. Still, nothing comes to mind. 

You close the frig in frustration and wait until an idea hits you or you give in and cook something that doesn't require much thought. 

You eat, yet you're left unsatisfied. 

It's often those times when you spend money unnecessarily -- buy additional food or order out to fill that craving. With a little patience and creativity, you can spin your standards into something special like this basil-sausage sandwich. Mmmm, mmmmm good. 

Basil-sausage Sandwich

How'd I do it?

Well, I didn't give up so easily though in the past I had. I asked myself how can I step up a sausage sandwich -- make it urban sophisticated like the ones restaurants change more than $10 for?  I grabbed the tomato-basil-flavor sausage, French roll bread, Ranch dressing, fresh basil, tomatoes, butter and worked my magic.

Cut the sausage lengthwise and grill the halves. Butter both sides of the roll. Grill the buttered-sides. Spread Ranch dressing or a similar cool-flavored condiment on the bread. Slice tomatoes and put on the bread. Top with the cooked sausage then fresh basil. Pour an individual-size bag of Cool Ranch Doritos in the tray. 

Now serve your new sassy sausage sandwich. 

Fruit Isn't Just For Eating

Have you thought about the multiple uses for fruit besides eating? This week's video treat comes from BuzzFeed, which offers clever ways to use fruit.

You'll look at fruit differently or at least with a smile.

Plop In A Chair, Kick Off Your Shoes & Sip On A Slushee Mojito

Aaah, it's finally Friday. It's been a long week, and I need  -- no deserve -- a drink. Usually, I'd open a bottle of Merlot or Shiraz, pour a glass of wine, lean back on my couch and celebrate Happy Friday!

Once a bottle of wine is open, it has to be consumed in a couple of days. That isn't always ideal for times when I just want one drink. So I've found a new drink to try just for those moments. It has just a tad of liquor and plenty of mint, another herb grown in my garden.

Spaghetti Pesto With A Twist

I make homemade pesto with basil from my garden during the summer. If I don't make and store enough pesto to last during the winter, I have to use store-bought pesto with my pasta dishes.

Well, here's another option: Spaghetti with parsley almond pesto. I've got plenty of parsley year-round, and almonds are readily available.
I'd always swap out the pasta for wheat spaghetti, a healthier choice. Click here for the recipe.

Create Simple Pleasures: Berries Bowls

Not every delicious meal or snack has to be complex, complicated or time-consuming. It's easy to forget the most enjoyable pleasures often are the simplest ones such as a berries bowl.

You can't go wrong. 

Berries Bowl

Ingredients/tools:
1 bowl (small)
Several strawberries
Several blackberries
Mix together and chill (preferably for at least an hour for the freshest taste)
Eat, Smile and Enjoy.