Anyone who grew up on treats like date nut bread and cream cheese - or even English muffin 'pizzas' from the toaster oven - knows how comforting they can be. What's even more heartening is how easy it is to replicate the cozy experiences, even when you don't have all of the ingredients on hand... More >>

When eating out, you probably already ask your waiter for more water, coffee or napkins, but, if you direct that same inquisitiveness toward your meals, you just may find yourself with an inventory of easy, economical new ideas... More >>

Is your junk mail pile stacked with seasonal store circulars? Before tossing them out perhaps you should circle back over and take a closer look... More >>

The tortilla chip aisle of the supermarket has never been more crowded. Whether it's using my favorite brand of cheddar tortilla chips with flax seeds and quinoa, it might just be time for a tortilla chip tasting... More >>

Even if you don't drink alcohol, perhaps you should add a few shot glasses to your cupboards. I prefer my 'shots' that way - in the form of juices, herbs and other nutritional powerhouses... More >>

I used to think seasoning blends were for amateurs, like the cheat sheets of the spice world. After all, wouldn't gourmets do their own spice selections, measurements and blending... More >>

Regardless of its name, I didn't see right through cellophane noodles. I had ordered it on and off from my favorite Chinese restaurants for years and had no idea that the thin, flexible transparent noodles were made from mung beans... More >>

...Patty melts aren't just longtime diner dishes, but can be easily dished up at home, as can many vibrant variations. Perfecting your melting is a fun and easy way to warm up this winter... More >>

Recipe ideas come from lots more than just cookbooks or TV cooking shows. Sometimes my shot in the arm emerges from a less-than-stellar restaurant experience... More >>

There is no reason you shouldn't be as proud of your chef's salads as Louis Diat, chef at the Ritz Carlton in New York City, was of his... More >>