Food for Thought

Lighter, warm-weather fare doesn't mean a boring bed of lettuce. There are plenty of delicious ways to get creative with your leafy greens. Here are a few tips:

* Go nuts: Almonds, pecans and walnuts provide flavor, body and crunch, giving your salad the perfect boost.

* Add veggies: Snap peas provide a fresh and delicious crunch, and cucumbers are a cool and refreshing addition.

* A fruitful effort: Dried or fresh fruits provide sweet and tart flavors to complement the more bitter varieties of leafy greens, like arugula. Try mixing dried cranberries and walnuts for a great one-two punch.

* Say cheese: The right cheeses provide a rich and savory boost to your salad. Feta works well with a vinaigrette dressing, and freshly shredded Parmesan is a great way to top off almost any salad.

* Fire up the grill: Beef up your salad with a cut of fine meat, marinated in your favorite dressing. Then, drizzle the dressing on your salad, too.

-- ARA

Tip of the Week: Poaching fruit

Poaching fruit, like pears, calls for simmering it in an unspiced syrup that is reduced to concentrate the fruity flavor. Create a simple poaching liquid by mixing two parts liquid (i.e. wine, water or fruit juice) with one part sugar. Fruit becomes tender as it absorbs the liquid.

-- CookingLight.com

Easy recipe: Roasted Fingerling Potato Salad

Salad

1 1/2 pounds fingerling potatoes (mixed colors), cut into 1/2-inch circles

1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 red onion, cut into 1-inch cubes (do not separate layers)

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

Dressing

1/4 cup light or olive oil based mayonnaise

1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Toss all salad ingredients together in a large bowl. Spread in a single layer on a large baking sheet and cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until potatoes start to brown. Let cool for at least 10 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk together all dressing ingredients in a medium bowl; toss with cooled vegetables. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

-- Family Features

Did You Know?

Even if fruits and veggies have a peel, it is important to wash them before consumption because bacteria can spread from the outside to the inside as you touch them. – FoodSafety.com

Food Quiz

This type of pasta dish is traditionally made with chopped, sautéed bacon, egg yolks, grated cheese, cracked black pepper, and sometimes cream.

A. Caltinasetta

B. Cremini

C. Carbonara

D. Cantucci

-- funtrivia.com

Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word: Earl Grey tea

This popular black tea was named for Charles Grey, the second earl in his line, who was also prime minister to King William IV in the early 19th century. An amalgamation of Indian and Sri Lankan teas, Earl Grey gets its elusive flavor from oil of the Bergamot orange. The Earl is said to have been given the recipe by a Chinese mandarin with whom he was friends.

-- epicurious.com

Number to Know

530: One order of Chicken Quesadilla at Taco Bell is 530 calories.

 -- calorieking.com

The Dish On …

"Restaurant Man" by Joe Bastianich

Joe Bastianich charts his culinary journey from working in his parents’ red-sauce joint in Queens to becoming one of the country’s most successful restaurateurs. Joe first learned the ropes from his father, Felice Bastianich, the ultrapragmatic, self-proclaimed “restaurant man.” After college and a year on Wall Street, Joe bought a one-way ticket to Italy and worked in restaurants and vineyards. Upon his return to New York, he partnered with his mother, Lidia, and soon joined forces with Mario Batali, establishing one superlative Italian restaurant after another.

-- Penguin Group (USA) Inc.

Food Quiz Answer

C. Carbonara

A medium size potato (5.3 ounces) with skin is 110 calories, has no fat, sodium or cholesterol, provides 45 percent of the Daily Value of vitamin C and has more potassium than a banana.

Here's tips to get you familiar with the variety of potatoes available: 

Fingerlings - These small, slender "finger-sized" potatoes range from two to four inches in length. They come in a wide range of skin and flesh colors and most possess a firm, waxy texture, which makes them ideal for potato salads. Pan-frying enhances their robust flavor and showcases their wonderful nutty or buttery tastes.

Russets - Russets are characterized by a brown, netted skin and white flesh. The delicate potato flavor and grainy texture of a baked russet creates light and fluffy mashed potatoes and crispy pan-fried potatoes.

Yellows - This type boasts golden skin and golden flesh. Grilling gives them a crispy skin, which enhances the dense and buttery texture, and gives them a slightly sweet, caramelized flavor. Their naturally smooth texture also lends itself well to lighter versions of baked or roasted potatoes.

To get more healthy potato recipes, visit www.potatogoodness.com.

-- Family Features

Tip of the Week: A composed salad

There are two ways to make a salad. You can toss everything in a bowl, pour in dressing, mix it up and serve. Or you can make what is called a “composed salad.” Just layer and arrange ingredients neatly on each plate one at a time. Drizzle the dressing over it, and you’ve got a presentation that is sure to impress.

-- CookingLight.com

Easy recipe: Doc's Beef or Brisket Rub

2 tablespoons paprika

2 tablespoons garlic powder

1 tablespoon celery salt

1/4 cup kosher salt or sea salt

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 cup light brown sugar

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon oriental mustard (dry)

2 tablespoons onion powder

2 tablespoons course ground black pepper

Mix all dry ingredients well. Rub thoroughly on brisket or heavy beef. Use a fresh spray bottle with apple juice to spray down all dry ingredients on meat. Rub in thoroughly again because the apple juice activates the dry spices. Allow to marinate in refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours or overnight, if possible. Cook on smoker or any indirect heat for 6 to 8 hours or until internal temperature reaches 192 degrees.  Smoker or grill temperature 225 to 240 degrees.

-- ARA

Did You Know?

May is National Barbecue Month, Egg Month, Mediterranean Diet Month, Potatoes and Limes Month and Salad Month.

Food Quiz

This black mushroom grows on ears of corn. In many places it is destroyed, but in Mexico it is considered a delicacy. What is it?

A. Huitlacoche

B. Shitake

C. Porcini

D. Champignons de Paris

-- funtrivia.com

Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word: barbecue sauce

A sauce used to baste barbecued meat; also used as an accompaniment to the meat after it's cooked. It is traditionally made with tomatoes, onion, mustard, garlic, brown sugar and vinegar; beer and wine are also popular ingredients.

-- epicurious.com

Number to Know

578: A white-rice sushi roll with salmon and cream cheese is 578 calories.

 -- calorieking.com

The Dish On …

"Vegan Cooking for Carnivores: Over 125 Recipes So Tasty Your Won't Miss the Meat" by Roberto Martin

Ellen DeGeneres' personal chef, Roberto Martin, shares over 125 delicious vegan recipes he's created for DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi that he hopes will make healthy vegan cooking accessible and easy for everyone. Featuring mouthwatering photographs by award-winning food photographer Quentin Bacon, this cookbook will appeal to die-hard carnivores and vegetarians alike.

-- Grand Central Publishing

Food Quiz Answer

A. Huitlacoche

If you're new to grilling, it's easy to make some wrong turns. Keep in mind a few tips from the pros from the WETSU BBQ Crew, a competitive barbecue team sponsored by Tree Top.

* Get to know your butcher. He can help you pick out the best cuts of meat for your intended use. For example, fat marbling is one of the most important things to look for when selecting a steak, but too much or too little can ruin the cut. Chicken and pork are leaner meat options. Be ready to answer questions about preparation and cooking, because this information will guide his or her suggestions.

* Think about spices. Once you have your meat, it's time to visit your spice rack. A harmonious blend of spices will bring out the natural flavor as it cooks on the grill. Some traditional grilling spices include paprika, salt, pepper and garlic, but more exotic spices like cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning can be used too if you're feeling adventurous.

* Learn how to cook on a grill. Thin-cut meats cook better with direct heat like a charcoal or gas fire. Chicken, thinly-cut steak and pork chops will cook quickly and evenly. On a gas grill, use all the burners to ensure the heat is even throughout the grill, and grill with the hood down as much as possible. When turning meat, use a spatula or tongs. Don't poke it; this allows juices to escape.

-- ARA

While breakfast is often tapped as the most important meal of the day, lunch is arguably just as critical for all-day performance, says Sue Moores, a registered dietitian in St. Paul, Minn.

According to Moores, the best school lunch contains foods rich in protein and wholesome carbohydrates, plus foods filled with vitamins minerals and fiber. This mix of foods provides energy for the brain and muscles that can last for several hours.

Here are some healthy options from the lunch line:

* Salad bar that includes romaine lettuce, shredded or diced vegetables, cottage cheese or hard-boiled eggs, a drizzle of dressing, plus whole-grain breadsticks, fruit and a low-fat milk.

* Roast beef or ham sandwich on whole-wheat bread, accompanied by an orange, carrot sticks with dip and a low-fat milk.

* Quesadillas or a flatbread sandwich with a mixed lettuce salad, melon and a low-fat milk.

* Turkey/veggie wrap with pineapple and mandarin oranges, pretzel sticks and a low-fat chocolate milk.

* Baked potato with broccoli and low-fat cheese sauce, orange wedges, whole-wheat roll and a low-fat milk.

-- ARA
 

Tip of the Week: Try some new whole grains

If you find that pasta and potatoes are a staple side dish at your family's dinner table, it may be time to explore some whole grains that could serve as alternatives. Try using bulgur in pilafs or a tabbouleh salad. A good source of protein and fiber, quinoa is a great replacement for rice. And barley is known for appearing in soups, but try it in risotto.

-- CookingLight.com

Easy recipe: Super Apple Ham-n-Cheese

2 slices whole grain bread

1 tablespoon butter, softened

1/2 tablespoon honey mustard

1 slice Borden Extra Sharp Cheddar Singles Sensations

2 large slices deli ham

1/2 apple, peeled and cut in thin slices

Spread one side of each slice of bread with butter. Then spread opposite side of bread with honey mustard. Place one slice of bread butter side down in skillet over medium heat. Layer one slice of cheese, ham and apple. Spread second piece of bread with honey mustard and place honey mustard side down on top of sandwich. Cook 6 to 7 minutes, flipping to ensure each side is golden brown and cheese is melted.

-- Borden Cheese

Food Quiz

What do the French call a hollow puff pastry case used as a container for creamed dishes or savory fillings?

A. Poussin

B. Vol-au-vent

C. Papillote

D. Velouté

-- funtrivia.com

Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word: café filtré

[ka-fay FEEL-tr , ay] French term meaning "filtered coffee" and referring to coffee made by pouring very hot water through a filter holding ground coffee. It's traditionally served black, in demitasse cups.

-- epicurious.com

Number to Know

250: One Baked Hot Apple Pie from McDonald’s is 250 calories.

 -- calorieking.com

The Dish On …

"The Homemade Pantry: 101 Foods You Can Stop Buying and Start Making" by Alana Chernila

In her debut cookbook, Alana Chernila inspires you to step inside your kitchen, take a look around and change the way you relate to food. A result from working on a tight budget, Alana is on a mission to kick people's packaged-food habit. She learned that with a little determination, anything she could buy at the store could be made in her kitchen, and her homemade versions were more satisfying, easier to make than she expected and tastier. 

-- Crown Publishing Group

Food Quiz Answer

B. Vol-au-vent

GateHouse News Service

A classic grilled cheese sandwich is one of the iconic foods of childhood. But there are plenty of ways to take your favorite sandwich from the kiddie table to the grownup table.

Of course, your choice of cheese is the key to the perfect sandwich. Different types of cheese will provide unique flavors and textures. Flavored cheese slices lay a tasty foundation for a wide variety of sandwich toppings. And certain cheeses are made specifically for their creamy consistency when melted.

Experimenting with new ingredients can also dress up everybody's favorite sandwich. Create your own signature sandwich with additions such as:

* Fresh or sun dried tomatoes

* Bacon or prosciutto

* Avocado

* Fresh herbs, such as sage, basil, oregano or cilantro

* Jalapeno

* Pickles

* Roasted red peppers

* Caramelized onions

* Flavored cheese slices such as Southwest Pepperjack, Smoked Cheddar or Applewood Bacon Cheddar

* Apple or pear slices

* Dijon or honey mustard

* Smoked or mesquite turkey

You can also change things up with different breads. Try pumpernickel, rye, seven-grain, sourdough or English muffin bread.

-- Family Features

Tip of the Week: How to freeze berries

You can freeze fresh berries to use year-round, and sometimes you don't even have to thaw them out first. For example, add frozen berries straight to cake or bread batters. To freeze, cut off any leaves or stems, wash and let dry thoroughly. Spread out on a baking sheet, and freeze for an hour. Then pack berries into plastic bags, and store in the freezer for up to six months.

-- CookingLight.com

Easy recipe: Patriot's Peanut Butter Popcorn
    
1 bag (3.2 ounces) butter flavored microwave popcorn
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup firmly-packed brown sugar
1 bottle (3 ounces) Patriotic Nonpareils or other sprinkles
1 package (12 ounces) Red Candy Melts Candy

Make popcorn according to package directions. In large bowl, microwave peanut butter and brown sugar for 1 minute; stir to combine. Add popcorn and stir until well coated. Sprinkle liberally with nonpareils, stirring to distribute. Spread onto parchment-lined sheet pan. Melt Candy Melts Candy according to package directions. Drizzle over popcorn. Let set at least 10 minutes before serving. Makes about 8 cups.

-- Family Features

Food Quiz

No Australian barbecue would be complete without snags or snaggers. What are these delicacies?

A. sausages
B. steaks
C. chicken wings
D. jumbo prawns

-- funtrivia.com

Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word: Taleggio cheese

[tahl-EH-zhee-oh] Hailing from Italy's Lombardy region, this rich (48 percent fat), semi-soft cheese is made from whole cow's milk. Its flavor can range from mild to pungent, depending on its age. Taleggio is sold in flat blocks or cylinders and is covered either with a wax coating or a thin mold. It's excellent with salad greens or served with fruit for dessert.

-- epicurious.com

Number to Know

340: One Whopper Sandwich, Jr. from Burger King is 340 calories.

 -- calorieking.com

The Dish On …

"The Mom 100 Cookbook: 100 Recipes Every Mom Needs in Her Back Pocket" by Katie Workman

Katie Workman, founding editor in chief of Cookstr.com and mother of two school-age kids, offers recipes, tips, techniques, attitude, and wisdom for staying happy in the kitchen while proudly keeping it homemade—because homemade not only tastes best, but is also better (and most economical) for you.

-- Workman Publishing Company, Inc.

Food Quiz Answer

A. sausages

With a little planning and some freezer space, you can create great meals for yourself in no time.

Buy in bulk. Breads, meats, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds all store well in the freezer. Purchasing these ingredients in bulk and freezing them in small quantities will allow you to grab and thaw what you need, when you need it.

Batch cook. Cooking several options at once is a great way to save time throughout the week. Spend a weekend afternoon cooking, then divide food into single-serving portions and freeze. Write the date and contents on each package.

Buy versatile ingredients. Sometimes all you need for a week's worth of great food are a few key items. Chicken and other lean meats store great in the freezer, and frozen mixed vegetables can be included in pot pies, stews and as a side dish.

Plan for spontaneity. Having a well-stocked freezer and pantry lets you create a delicious recipe whenever the mood strikes. Keep a variety of pastas and rice on hand, along with canned tomatoes, beans, broth, cheeses, herbs and spices. You'll become a weeknight gourmet cook in no time.

-- Family Features

Tip of the Week: Keep a jar of marinara handy

A jar of marinara sauce is a good, essential ingredient to keep around the kitchen because it can be used in a variety of meals: add body to stew or chili; make a tangy braise for lamb; and, of course, enhance a hearty pasta dish. Look for sauce that has less than 350 milligrams of sodium, and balance the sugar content by adding salt.

-- Cooking Light magazine

Easy recipe: White Bean Salad

3/4 cup Marzetti Simply Dressed Ranch Salad Dressing

1 (15.5-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained

1 shallot, minced

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped

1 red bell pepper, diced

6 cups chopped romaine lettuce

1/2 cup sliced cherry tomatoes

1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

Combine dressing in a large mixing bowl with remaining ingredients, and gently toss. Arrange on a serving plate, and serve immediately. Serve with toasted French bread drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt. Serves 6.

-- Marzetti

Did You Know?

Foods labeled “multi-grain,” “stone-ground,” “100-percent wheat,” “cracked wheat,” “seven-grain” or “bran” are usually not whole-grain products. -- USDA

Food Quiz

What means "omelette" in Thai?

A. Kai Tom

B. Kai Dow

C. Kai Jeaw

D. Kai Con

-- funtrivia.com

Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word: pancetta

[pan-CHEH-tuh] An Italian bacon that is cured with salt and spices but not smoked. Flavorful, slightly salty pancetta comes in a sausagelike roll. It's used in Italian cooking to flavor sauces, pasta dishes, forcemeats, vegetables and meats. Pancetta can be tightly wrapped and refrigerated for up to 3 weeks, or frozen up to 6 months.

-- epicurious.com

Number to Know

400: One cheeseburger from Dairy Queen is 400 calories.

 -- calorieking.com

The Dish On …

"Great Food Fast" by Bob Warden

Pressure cooking made easy! Bob Warden has introduced over 800,000 QVC customers to the convenience and deliciousness of cooking under pressure. His previous pressure cooker books have sold over 200,000 copies. Warden's latest pressure-cooking cookbook looks to redefine pressure cooking all over again.

-- Quail Ridge Press

From the Beer Nut’s Blog: Craft beer gaining popularity

There are now more than 2,000 breweries in the United States, and the craft beer industry brewed 1.3 million more barrels in 2011 than in 2010, according to theBrewers Association.

In 2011, craft brewers were responsible for 5.68 percent of the U.S. beer volume produced, up from 4.97 in 2010. In all,  nearly 11.5 million barrels of craft beer was brewed, with sales figures around $8.7 billion, up from $7.6 billion in 2010.

To read more from the Beer Nut, visit http://blogs.wickedlocal.com/beernut/.

Food Quiz Answer

C. Kai Jeaw

Last July, the National Restaurant Association launched Kids LiveWell, a voluntary program in which participating restaurants agree to offer and promote a selection of menu items for children that meet established nutritional criteria based on current dietary recommendations, including the 2010 Dietary Guidelines.

Well-balanced lifestyle habits established early in childhood, including healthy eating and physical activity, can help to reduce weight gain and the potential risk of disease later in life. The goal is to provide more healthful meal options for children when families are dining out.  

Since last year's kick-off, participation in the program stands at 68 restaurant brands representing more than 22,000 locations nationwide. The brands range from casual to fast-food restaurants to fine-dining establishments.

Parents can learn more at HealthyDiningFinder.com, or follow the program on Twitter @KidsLiveWell to stay informed of new participating restaurants.

-- ARA

It's time to banish that old stereotype that the only guys who can cook are professional chefs. It's not too difficult to elevate a simple meal to the level of a gourmet experience. Here are some tips:

- For a romantic occasion, develop a sophisticated ambiance with music, lighting and decor.  

- A tablecloth adds a touch of refinement while protecting furniture and easing post-meal cleanup.

- Add a floral centerpiece to do double duty as a decoration and as a gift for her. Light some candles to enhance the mood.

- Use your good dishes and set them on opposite sides of the table. Place knives and spoons to the right of the plate and forks to the left.

- Whatever meal you decide to serve, there's a sophisticated wine to complement the culinary experience. For ideas, talk to the wine steward at your local grocer or wine shop. Many stores also suggest recipes to pair with their featured wines.

-- ARA

Tip of the Week: Don’t chill tomatoes

For the best tomato flavor, never refrigerate them. A chilled tomato will not finish ripening because cold halts the ripening process. Cold also kills the flavor of tomatoes, so even when the tomatoes are fully ripe, keep them out of the refrigerator.

-- Family Features/ Florida Tomatoes

Easy recipe: Tomato and Avocado Salsa

2 large tomatoes, diced

1 large avocado, peeled, seeded and diced

1/2 cup red onion, chopped

1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 lime, juiced

1 teaspoon powdered cumin

Your favorite hot sauce (for heat)

Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

In medium mixing bowl, combine all ingredients. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper and hot sauce.  Serve at room temperature for best flavor. For hotter version, substitute 1 seeded fresh jalapeno pepper for green pepper. Also, if you prefer, use toasted cumin seed instead of ground cumin. Yields 4 to 6 servings.

-- Family Features/ Florida Tomatoes

Did You Know?

Raw roasts, steaks and chops (beef, veal, lamb and pork) should not be in the refrigerator for longer than three to five days. – FoodSafety.gov

Food Quiz

What is the most common name in Canada for the delicious treat of flat fried dough, often topped with cinnamon and sugar?

A. fried duck wing

B. beaver tail

C. flying saucer

D. prairie cake

-- funtrivia.com

Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word: Panko

[PAHN-koh] Bread crumbs used in Japanese cooking for coating fried foods. They're coarser than those normally used in the United States and create a deliciously crunchy crust. Panko is sold in Asian markets.

-- epicurious.com

Number to Know

315: One hot dog with a hot dog bun and ketchup is about 315 calories.

 -- calorieking.com

The Dish On …

"Weeknights with Giada: Quick and Simple Recipes to Revamp Dinner" by Giada De Laurentiis

Giada De Laurentiis is one of America’s most-loved culinary stars, adored for her Food Network hit shows and her New York Times bestselling cookbooks alike, both of which feature her fresh, flavorful Italian recipes. For the first time, Giada tackles weeknight cooking, sharing her favorite tips and go-to dishes—all in her vibrant signature style—to get a delicious meal on the table in a flash.

-- Crown Publishing Group

Food Quiz Answer

B. beaver tail

Tip of the Week: Too much salt

Many Americans exceed the recommended amount of salt consumption. Many foods already have high amounts of salt and sodium, so adding salt at the dinner table only builds on this. If you are having trouble kicking the salt habit, try adding hot pepper sauces to spice up meals, or combine a salt-free blend of herbs to add flavor to food.

-- EatRight.org

Easy recipe: Tuna Melt Fries

2 (6-ounce) cans of tuna fish (packed in oil)

1/2 red onion, diced

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 celery branches, diced

Salt and fresh ground pepper

1 (20-ounce) bag Alexia Parmesan Lemon Waffle Fries

12 small slices of cheddar cheese

3 Roma tomatoes

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Drain oil from tuna and add to a large mixing bowl. Add red onion, celery, mayonnaise, salt and pepper to the bowl, and combine ingredients. Set aside.

Bake the Parmesan Lemon Waffle Fries according to the package instructions. When finished, top each fry with a spoonful of the tuna mixture, and top with a slice of cheddar cheese. Heat in oven until melted. Remove from the oven, and top each fry with a slice of Roma tomato. Serve immediately. Makes 12 to 15 servings

-- Alexia

Did You Know?

March is National Nutrition Month, Berries and Cherries Month, National Peanut Month and Caffeine Awareness Month.

Food Quiz

Which British cheese in the list is a Scottish goat's cheese?

A. Kelsae

B. Inverloch

C. Pentland

D. Dunlop

-- funtrivia.com

Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word: Reduce

Culinarily, to boil a liquid (usually stock, wine or a sauce mixture) rapidly until the volume is reduced by evaporation, thereby thickening the consistency and intensifying the flavor. Such a mixture is sometimes referred to as a “reduction.”

-- epicurious.com

Number to Know

405: One venti mocha frappuccino with no whipped cream is 405 calories.

 -- calorieking.com

The Dish On …

"Les Petits Macarons: Colorful French Confections to Make at Home" by Kathryn Gordon, Anne E. McBride

Macarons, the stuff of bakers’ candy-coated dreams, have taken the world by storm and are demystified here for the home baker. With dozens of flavor combinations, recipes are structured with three basic shell methods—French, Swiss, and Italian. With dozens of flavor combinations, recipes are structured with three basic shell methods—French, Swiss, and Italian.Try shells flavored with pistachio, blackberry, coconut and red velvet, filled with the likes of sesame buttercream, strawberry guava pâte de fruit, crunchy dark chocolate ganache and lemon curd.

-- Running Press Book Publishers

Food Quiz Answer

B. Inverloch

Teaching kids how to find their way around the kitchen is a good way to encourage them to think creatively and get excited about eating well.

Here are some suggestions on how to have fun together in the kitchen:

* Fun with shapes. We all know how much fun cookie cutters can be for children. Take that idea to the next level by encouraging your children to sculpt their own shapes when baking items like cookies. Have them trace the pattern they'd like to use on cardboard or a thick piece of paper, and use it as a template. 

* Batter up. Get kids involved in the cooking process when making food they love. Turn over the spoon, and let them mix batter for that next batch of pancakes as an opportunity to introduce them to basic cooking activities. You can also encourage them to top their creations with a unique variety of toppings like bananas and granola.

* Start from scratch. In kids' minds, noodles come from a box and bread comes from a bag that you buy from the store. Having children help make bread, pasta or pretzels from scratch can be a fascinating experience for them, and it will help them appreciate how their food gets to the table.

-- ARA

Tip of the Week: Which cuts of meat are lean?

You can make any cut of meat leaner by trimming off the visible solid fat before cooking. But specific cuts known for being lean include anything with the words "round" or "loin," as in sirloin. Also try flank steak or anything labeled 95 percent lean ground beef.

-- EatRight.org

Easy recipe: Breakfast Biscuit Bakes

4 (3/4 ounce) slices American cheese

1 (10.2-ounces) can (5) refrigerated big flaky biscuits

1 tablespoon butter

1/3 cup finely chopped onion

1/2 cup chopped cooked ham

5 Land O Lakes All-Natural Eggs, well beaten

Heat oven to 350. Stack cheese slices. Cut into thin strips; coarsely chop. Separate biscuits; cut each in half. Let stand at room temperature 5 minutes to soften. Press each piece into bottom and up sides of 10 lightly greased muffin pan cups. Set aside. Melt butter in 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; add onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, 1 to 2 minutes. Add ham; continue cooking 1 minute. Add eggs; cook, lifting gently and stirring slightly to allow uncooked portions to flow underneath, until set (1 to 2 minutes). Immediately remove from heat; cool slightly. Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon chopped cheese into each biscuit cup. Divide egg mixture among muffin cups. Press down egg mixture slightly; sprinkle each muffin cup equally with remaining cheese. Bake for 14 to 17 minutes or until puffed and biscuits are lightly golden brown on edges. Serve warm.

-- Land O Lakes

Did You Know?

A new study shows that adults who drink water 30 minutes before meals eat about 75 fewer calories per meal. – EatRight.org

Food Quiz

One person in the Old Testament was so in need of a meal he gave up his birthright to his brother Jacob for a bowl of lentil stew. Who was this famished man?

A. Joseph

B. Absalom

C. Isaac

D. Esau

-- funtrivia.com

Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word: ranchero sauce

[ran-CHEH-roh, rahn-CHEH-roh] A picant tomato-based sauce that includes onions, green chiles such as serranos or jalepenos and seasonings. This Mexican salsa is most often associated with the dish, huevos rancheros.

-- epicurious.com

Number to Know

380: One Steak & Cheese Subway 6-inch sub on wheat bread is 380 calories.

 -- calorieking.com

The Dish On …

"Made in Italy" by David Rocco

Cookbooks can be as much about lifestyle as they are about food, and this stylish volume from the host of the Cooking Channel’s travelogue "Rocco’s Dolce Vita" offers an aspirational glimpse of modern Italian living. Rocco, who lives in Italy and regularly travels around the country, is inspired by the simplicity of traditional cuisine. His own cooking philosophy is “quanto basta,” or “as much as you want." He believes in giving readers a general guide, but encourages them to adjust dishes according to their own tastes.

-- Crown Publishing Group

Food Quiz Answer

D. Esau

This year, open the door to spring with a bite-sized brunch.

Bite-sized foods are on-trend for entertaining menus because they add visual appeal and allow guests to customize their portion sizes. Instead of serving a full meal, feature a more casual buffet table with five or six different dishes.

Choose fresh ingredients. Serve fresh scrambled eggs with red and green veggies to add bright color and crunch to each bite. Putting fun twists on a classic dish is a surefire way to please any breakfast crowd.

Decorate simply. Create a fresh spring theme that's fitting for a festive brunch. Keep it simple with crisp, white table linens, colorful flowers arranged in a white pitcher and bright accessories. Combine a variety of colored plates and bowls to create an eclectic, yet casual, look.

Add finishing touches. Fresh fruit salad or colorful cupcakes served in little cups provide the perfect finishing touch. Prepare a chilled beverage the night before, such as iced tea served with frozen mint-infused ice cubes or a large pitcher of lemonade, to serve as an alternative to coffee or tea.

-- ARA

Tip of the Week: Does oil belong in the refrigerator?

Although some cooking oils have a shelf life of a year or more, all oils will eventually become rancid, producing an off smell and taste. It won’t make you sick, but you should throw it out. To keep vegetable oil and other oils like flaxseed and sesame fresh for longer, store them in the refrigerator, or at least keep them away from heat, light and air.

-- EatRight.org

Easy recipe: Garlic Butter

8 tablespoons Kerrygold Irish butter

2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

3 to 5 cloves crushed garlic

A few drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice

Whip butter, then add in parsley, garlic and a few drops of lemon juice at a time. Roll into butter pats or form into a roll and wrap in parchment paper or foil, twisting each end. Refrigerate to harden.

-- adapted from "Forgotten Skills of Cooking" by Darina Allen

Did You Know?

The range of temperatures in which bacteria grows most rapidly –– 40 to 140 degrees –– is called the 'danger zone.' -- FoodSafety.gov

Food Quiz

Zwiebelkuchen is a savory pie in Germany that consists of diced bacon, caraway seed, and cream that is combined with one vital vegetable that the dish is actually named for. What delicious vegetable is the most important component in this dish?

A. parsnip

B. onion

C. cabbage

D. carrot

-- funtrivia.com

Answer is at bottom of column

Wise to the Word: Irish soda bread

This classic Irish quick bread uses baking soda (as the name implies) as its leavener. It's usually made with buttermilk and is speckled with currants and caraway seed. Before baking, a cross is slashed in the top of the loaf. The purpose of the cross, legend says, is to scare away the devil.

-- epicurious.com

Number to Know

330: One McDonald’s Snack Wrap with chipotle sauce and crispy chicken is 330 calories.

 -- calorieking.com

The Dish On …

"The Back in the Day Bakery Cookbook" by Cheryl Day, Griffith Day and Amy Paige Condon

Nationally recognized and locally adored for its decadent homespun desserts and delicious rustic breads, Back in the Day Bakery is a Savannah, Ga., landmark. To celebrate the bakery's 10th anniversary, Cheryl and Griff packed baking know-how's into this cookbook, plus recipes for their famous Buttermilk Biscones, Old-Fashioned Cupcakes, Chocolate Bread and Cinnamon Sticky Buns. It is like a down-home bake sale in a book.

-- Artisan

From the Beer Nut’s Blog: New collaboration beer

I don’t know about you, but I always look forward to the Stone Brewing Company collaboration beers. I’ve liked all of them and thought some were absolutely phenomenal. The newest one, the Texas Brown Ale, brewed withBear Republic and Fat Head’s, sounds phenomenal. Here’s the press release:

This particular beer pays homage to a relatively little–known beer style called Texas Brown Ale, which, strangely enough, has its roots in California. It originated as a hopped-up version of a brown ale recipe, and it got pretty popular in the early 1980s. Texas Brown Ale beer is 7.1 percent alcohol by volume, and it boasts brown sugar and molasses that put a new twist on an old favorite.

To read more from the Beer Nut, visit http://blogs.wickedlocal.com/beernut/.

Food Quiz Answer

B. onion

They came in the 1840s to escape the devastating potato famine. And they stayed to become part of the fabric of America.

Today, 36.9 million U.S. residents claim Irish ancestry, second only to those who claim German heritage and more than eight times the population in Ireland, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2009 statistics.

Enduring hardships and privations, the foods these Irish immigrants cooked in the new land would have replicated foods that reminded them of home –– dishes such as cottage pie and Irish apple cake.

"There is a real revolution going on about food –– a longing, a craving to re-learn life skills like butchery, keeping chickens, growing vegetables and curing meat," said Darina Allen, author of "Irish Traditional Cooking.”

Allen also teaches “Forgotten Skills” classes at Ballymaloe Cookery School in County Cork, Ireland. Her recipes include Irish dairy products because dairying has been a part of Ireland for centuries, long before potatoes.

"In Ireland, we can grow grass like nowhere else in the world," said Allen with pride. "So we have fantastic butter, lovely cream and, of course, cheese. Butter is the fat of the land. Our animals are grass-fed. Grass-fed gives more flavor and more complex nutrients. This is what we are. Dairy products come from this beautiful, lush green grass."

-- Family Features