Wednesday, January 15, 2014
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Food/Entertaining

Home-field advantage for the big-game party? Don't forget to have a food safety game plan in place
You've seen it time and time again. Your favorite football team is trailing late in the game with the ball not far inside the opponent's territory. It's what's commonly referred to as "four-down territory." Attempting a field goal is either a long shot or doesn't garner enough points to win the game. The best option is to "go for it" on fourth down. As the saying goes, the future is now.
 
Resolving to cook more at home?
Cooking more at home is a common New Year's resolution - and a good one at that. Not only can you save money by eating at home, you can also make choices restaurants often decide for you about how food is purchased and prepared.
 
How to claim victory as a No. 1 sports party host
When you hear the phrase "'tis the season" you might be thinking holidays. But it's also the season of families and friends gathering together around the big-screen TV to cheer on their favorite college or pro sports teams.
 
Chase the mid-winter blues away with wholesome comfort foods
The colder weather of winter has many looking for some comforting wholesome meals to share with friends and family. This winter try delicious recipes that will create tantalizing smells in the home and warm everyone sitting around the table.
 
Healthy happy family travel
Looking to take a road trip but dread hearing the infamous "Are we there yet?" or "Can we please, please stop for fast food?" questions.
 
The no-fail solution for keeping healthy-eating resolutions
New Year's resolutions are good things - unless you set yourself up for failure with grand, ultimately unachievable goals. Rather than frustrate yourself with overwhelming changes, try making smaller ones that will positively impact your life and encourage other healthier decisions throughout the year.
 
Staying happy and healthy this season the active way
The holidays are a time to share joy and happiness with loved ones. Yet with long lines, holiday parties and traveling, this time of year can really be exhausting. Add in the cold weather and other everyday stresses and you will find staying happy and healthy during the holidays can be downright impossible.
 
Health story of the year: salt is vindicated
An ever increasing body of academic research is showing that the current level of salt Americans consume is not only perfectly healthy but that adopting low-salt recommendations will actually harm people. The most recent example of this is a review of all available research on salt and health by the Institute for Medicine (IOM).
 
Indulge in skin-loving winter foods for a healthy self - inside and out
Have you effectively "winterized" your home for the season? Plunging temperatures call for more than just cozy sweaters, boots and coats - they can also challenge daily eating and wellness routines, which can negatively impact skin. A personal regimen that effectively combines diet (chock-full of fresh, in-season foods), exercise, skincare and wellness this winter can be a powerful tool in achieving a glowing, healthy-looking appearance.
 
New year, new you: Five easy tips to get more fiber
For many, the new year provides a reason to examine the changes we would like to make for a healthier life. This January will be no different for the many Americans who will think about improving their diet. Focusing on fiber intake is one important and easy modification to consider.
 
The recipe for indulging in Italian comfort cuisine at home
Looking for a hearty dish to warm up your table this season? Look no further than a good dish of lasagna.
 
Add a touch of style to your holiday this year
The holidays are a time to celebrate with family and friends. Whether you are hosting a large party or are planning to keep it simple with just a few guests, chances are you are looking for ways to deck the halls inside and out to create Christmas cheer.
 
Simpler cooking, bolder flavors with cooking wine
Using cooking wine in recipes is a simple way to enhance the flavor of any dish. Found on grocery store shelves, cooking wine is just that - wine made for cooking. Use it like you would a seasoning in recipes where you want to add more flavor. Here are some easy tips.
 
Expert tricks and delicious, balanced recipes help make holiday entertaining a cinch
From hearty appetizers to decadent desserts, food is often the "star of the show" when it comes to holiday entertaining. Whether you're creating a favorite meal for loved ones, or planning to host a large gathering, it's easy to get overwhelmed with all of the planning and prep. Try these tricks culinary experts use to cook holiday meals guaranteed to impress.
 
Cinnamon roll or coffee cake? Butter or gravy? Learn the smart swaps for your holiday indulgences
The holiday season just wouldn't be the same without the decadent treats and extravagant meals that mark the season. While these treats are tempting, they can wreak havoc on your health in the long term. But swearing off some of the season's best assets will only turn you into a Grinch.

 
Healthy holiday choices to avoid weight gain
The holiday season just wouldn't be the same without the decadent treats and extravagant meals that mark the season. While these treats are tempting, they can wreak havoc on your health in the long term. But swearing off some of the season's best assets will only turn you into a Grinch.

 
Gift-giving tips for people who have everything
Finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be difficult at any time of year, but no time places more stress on finding a great gift than Christmas. It goes beyond finding the "perfect" gift for special days and holidays to giving something that reflects your affection or appreciation for the gifts you've received over time from that individual.
 
Tips to achieve wholesome health in 2014
You're all too familiar with that one, dreaded moment when the festivities end. It hits you every year like a bad hangover. You promise yourself that once the last sip of eggnog has been guzzled and the cookie jar has been emptied, you'll get healthy.
 
Easy cookies to warm the winter
Whether the goodies are for gifts, for parties, or for the family to enjoy, chilly winter days are the perfect time to have the oven on and the house smelling great.
 
Gifts for foodies guaranteed to leave taste buds dancing
Between the growing trends of boutique restaurants, creative home cooking and entire television networks dedicated to food, you probably know a few people who consider themselves "foodies." Whether they love craft beer, decadent chocolate treats or gourmet cheeses, you can find many great gift ideas for people passionate about food and drink. Make their holiday extra bright by indulging their interests and exploring some of these top trends in food-related gifts.
 
Shake up snack time with a pop of flavor inspiration
Today, Americans eat around 16 billion quarts of popcorn every year making it the nation's favorite snack food by volume. Naturally rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, low calorie air-popped popcorn has more iron than eggs and more fiber than traditional salty snacks. In addition to being healthy, it's wallet-friendly. For about 25 cents, you can pop enough kernels to satisfy a family of four. If that's not enough to whet your appetite, what makes popcorn the greatest snack is its ability to adapt to consumers' ever-changing palettes.
 
Shape up your home in time for the expected guests
Excited about hosting a party; but dreading the decorating? You don't have to spend a great deal of money or invest a lot of time to get your home ready. There are a number of quick, easy and inexpensive projects you can complete to update your decor before the doorbell rings.
 
Better-for-you snacks to satisfy all your holiday guests
The holiday season is a time for everyone to indulge in delicious foods but doing so shouldn't be a guilt-ridden experience. There are several options available to satisfy your taste buds while still staying on track. The following are some snack options that not only embrace the latest food trends but are sure to please your guests as well.
 
Make eye-healthy foods part of your holiday meals and memories this season
As you plan your holiday menu this season, you may not realize that even your favorite traditional recipes can be easily updated to include more nutritious ingredients. And because vision plays such a critical role not only in enjoying your favorite meals but also in making memories with family and loved ones throughout the holiday season, including foods with benefits specific to eye health can help ensure you can see your best so you don't miss a thing.
 
Tips to make your home sparkle for holiday guests
The holiday season's here - time for enjoying your favorite foods, cider simmering on the stove and gatherings of friends and family. If you're hosting a holiday celebration, prepping your home now will help reduce last-minute chores and make the season more enjoyable.
 
Five tips for the perfect movie night
The nice thing about cold weather is that it creates the perfect opportunity to enjoy the warmth of family and friends or some quiet time alone. What sounds more pleasant than placing some wood in the fire and curling up in front of the TV with a new movie? When planning a movie night, here are some tips that can help create a comfortable evening for the whole group.
 
Kitchen fires spike during holidays: Keep your family safe
During the holidays, more Americans spend time in the kitchen preparing meals for family and friends. That additional kitchen time also means added risk of home fires. In fact, three times more fires occur on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day than on any other days of the year, yet many Americans aren't practicing basic kitchen safety. This holiday season, follow these simple fire-safety tips.
 
One mac and cheese recipe served 3 ways makes for ultimate comfort food
The chill of the season heralds many changes, including your appetite for heartier foods. This is the perfect time to break out the casserole dishes and whip up your family's favorite comfort foods. Americans seem to agree that when it comes to comfort classics, macaroni and cheese is what they crave. Here are three variations sure to please.
 
Tips for stress-free holiday meals
Holiday meals are often the highlights of the season, as nothing beats making memories with friends and family over delicious food and good wine. However, planning the perfect get-together can be difficult and even stressful. To help you get through this holiday season seamlessly, Tom Colicchio, chef/owner of Craft Restaurants and head judge on Top Chef is sharing his tips for planning an effortless holiday meal that will knock your guests' socks off.
 
Eight steps to perfect holiday cookies
The time-honored popularity of holiday cookie baking remains strong even in today's grab-and-go society.
 
Tips for successful gift giving this holiday season
This time of year, there is no shortage of holiday gift guides available to help you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Whether it's your chocolate-loving aunt or fashion-forward sister, there is an art to selecting just the right things to put smiles on their faces.
 
Get crafty with edible holiday appetizers
Don't worry, Mom. In this case, it's OK to play with your food. The latest online social media craze features awe-inspiring galleries of edible art, showcasing everyday ingredients transformed into munchable holiday masterpieces.
 
The holiday season made easy
'Tis the season of wonderful company and delicious food! It's also that time of year to bring friends and family together, but preparing for holiday gatherings along with the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping can often be stressful and time consuming. In fact, Thanksgiving is the most stressful holiday for home cooks as more than one in three Millennials plans to host a gathering at their home and 57 percent have noted feeling pressure when preparing a holiday meal, according to the Allrecipes' 2013 Annual Holiday Survey. Following are a few easy tips to simplify your holiday planning so you can spend more time with loved ones.
 
Adding traditional twists to the Thanksgiving meal
Across America, families will be spending Thanksgiving together, and more than likely, enjoying the same menu items they've enjoyed in years past. Interestingly, more than half of Americans would embrace adding new foods or new preparations to the Thanksgiving table this year, and many think that side dishes provide the perfect opportunity to experiment.
 
Top 5 tips to simplify holiday baking
From cookies to cupcakes, the holidays just aren't complete without freshly-baked treats to gift, serve and enjoy. But baking isn't always a piece of cake, whether you're an expert or novice baker. So this year, as you preheat your oven and prepare to whip up dozens of your favorite recipes, check out these five helpful tips to ensure your holiday cookies don't crumble.
 
Holiday entertainment survival guide
The countdown to this year's holiday season has begun. Department stores have decked the halls. Families are scheduling trips to visit far-away loved ones. And hosts everywhere are stressing about entertaining family and friends during this frantic season of peace and good will.
 
Healthy, decadent reduced-guilt desserts
You don't have to deny your cravings this winter season. It is possible to create satisfying, sweet treats that are healthier. With these quick nutrition-savvy tips, enjoying decadent desserts has never tasted so good.
 
Think outside the chocolate box when hosting a holiday cookie exchange
The holidays provide a good excuse to bake and eat cookies. Not the traditional chocolate chip or peanut butter cookies that most of us eat during the rest of the year, but those special recipes that have everyone going back for a second taste. Hosting a cookie exchange is a great way to expose your friends to a wider variety of cookie recipes this holiday season.
 
Expert tips for adding top home design trends to your holiday decor
From decking the halls to trimming the tree, everyone loves the tradition of decorating their home for the holiday season. It's a time to pull out heirloom pieces and blend them with modern elements to make your home truly one of a kind. This year, refresh your holiday motif with a few top decor trends for a look guaranteed to impress.
 
Gifts to decor: 'Hot' chocolate ideas for the holidays
While many of us consider chocolate welcome and appropriate at any time of year, this most delightful sweet can take center stage during the holidays. Whether you give it as a gift, serve it on a holiday buffet or make it the centerpiece of your seasonal decor, chocolate is always on trend. Here are some hot ideas for making your holiday entertaining a celebration of all things chocolate.
 
Quick and easy meal solutions for holiday entertaining
The hectic holidays can mean hurried cooks, frantic trips to the grocery store and chaotic menu planning. But it doesn't have to - with some tried and true solutions for easy entertaining, you can reduce your stress and set up a holiday party guaranteed to impress guests from near or far.
 
Dish up the love this holiday season with time-honored recipes
The heart of the holiday season centers around the bonds created during celebrations and traditions - Thanksgiving dinner, cookie exchanges, Christmas and Hanukkah parties and more. These special moments are often created in and around the kitchen. Whether it's an afternoon spent making holiday cookies or sitting around the table enjoying Grandma's famous meatballs, there's something special about quality time spent together preparing for or enjoying seasonal fare.
 
Quick, simple holiday entertaining tricks
The holidays are that special time of year when we open our homes and welcome guests from far and wide. It is a chance for us to connect with old friends and family we may not have seen since the previous holiday season.
 
Celebrity chef Art Smith 'cooks up' a recipe for type 2 diabetes management
When celebrity Chef Art Smith was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2008, he took the news as a wake-up call. Soon after, he began working with his doctor to develop a treatment plan that was right for him. He also made changes to his diet to include more fresh vegetables and started exercising five days a week, which led him to eventually lose 120 pounds.
 
Sweeteners: an easy way to live and eat healthier
With diabetes and obesity cases at alarmingly high levels in the U.S., people are starting to take small steps toward leading healthier lifestyles to try to prevent these issues.Eating healthy and incorporating regular exercise into your lifestyle are some commonly known good first steps, but another great step is "reducing sugar in your diet as a way of reducing glucose and caloric intake," says Dr. Luis Pacheco an Emmy award-winning family physician and professor of medicine at the University of Texas.
 
Girls' night: Tips to take you from primp to party
Girls' night out is a rite of passage, a time to celebrate friendships and embrace life. Preparing for a big night on the town is often as much fun as the actual outing. Creating the perfect environment for primping is an essential piece of the plan - whether hitting the hottest club or checking out the trendiest new restaurant, a girl knows she has to look good and be in the right mood. Follow these tips for the perfect primping party.
 
Space-making ideas create room for holiday entertaining
Every holiday party is as individual as the hosts and interesting as the guests. Yet whether you plan a sophisticated dinner party or an afternoon buffet, all parties do have one thing in common: the need for entertaining space.
 
Unique and nutty twists on traditional holiday recipes
With the holidays fast approaching it's time to enjoy some of the season's tastiest foods. Small twists can turn a traditional dish into a holiday classic.
 
Restaurants offer careers outside the norm
America's restaurant and foodservice industry provides jobs and careers for 13 million people - 10 percent of our nation's workforce. While restaurants serve as a stepping stone for many - one in three Americans got their first job experience in a restaurant - it's also an industry of tremendous opportunity, where individuals of all backgrounds are given the opportunity to move up the ladder and succeed. In fact, 80 percent of restaurant owners began their careers as hourly workers in the industry.
 
Experience the robust flavor of Vietnamese cinnamon
Cinnamon may be the world's most popular baking spice, but all cinnamons are not created equal, and in the foodie world, Vietnamese cinnamon has emerged as the most prized of the bunch. Dark reddish/brown and lushly aromatic, Vietnamese cinnamon is favored for its distinctly sweet, peppery, spicy flavor. Less tannic and more robust than its relatives, it delivers a powerful taste whether used solo - as in those gooey rolls or spirally bread - or in combo with other spices - in a curry or pumpkin pie spice blend, for example.
 
Tips for hosting a party that shines
Entertaining with family and friends is one part of the holiday season that we all look forward to. But holiday hosting can sometimes be harried. To keep you and your guests merry this season, consider hosting a wine party that shines.
 
You just had turkey - opt for unique seafood entrees at your next celebration
When you're brain-storming party menus, seafood isn't always among the favored dishes. But it could be. The right seasonings and a dash of creativity - along with historically low prices on well-loved options like lobster - could make seafood your centerpiece.
 
'Tis the season to entertain: A simple guide to artisanal wine and cheese pairings
Planning a get together with close friends or family this holiday season and fretting over what to serve? Regardless of theme or guest list, a delicious artisanal cheese and wine platter is a great way to start off any gathering. By following these simple guidelines, creating the perfect pairings can be one of the simplest things on your to-do list this holiday season.
 
Caramel to cranberries: Holiday stain-busting tips keep carpets bright
Whether it's the ghouls trick-or-treating on Halloween, the gobbles of great food on Thanksgiving, or the gatherings of loved ones over the holiday season, you will likely be hosting an event at your home in the upcoming months. Food and friends make the perfect pairing for celebrations - but that can mean spills and splashes on carpets. There's no need to panic when you know the tricks the pros use to treat tough holiday carpet stains.
 
Upgrade your morning routine
Upgrading your morning routine can pay dividends throughout the day by helping you remain focused and energized. Before life takes in you in a million directions, optimize your start to the day by incorporating these simple steps to slow down and savor.
 
Trend in nostalgic nosh brings new flavor to fine dining
Seasoned tots with your filet mignon? Fries with parmesan cheese and truffle oil? But of course. Comfort foods with sophisticated flair are plated in abundance at the finest restaurants around the country, as chefs reinvent potato sides like fries and tots with new dips, toppings and custom spice blends. Excitement continues to build as these nostalgic dishes from the kiddie table can now be found making their way to grown-ups' plates.
 
How to host the best game-watching party
The days are getting cooler, the leaves are starting to change colors and team banners are starting to appear on front porches everywhere. It can only mean one thing - football season is back. With it comes more than 32 million fantasy football players and a whole lot of weekend game-watching festivities.
 
Adding in, not just cutting out, is key to better eating habits
When you think of eating right, does your mind immediately turn to what you should cut out of your diet? The list of things you might consider giving up can be long and daunting. As important as it might be to cut out some foods, don't overlook the importance of the things you should add in, such as quality ingredients, appealing flavors and textures, and satisfying portions.
 
From tots to teens: Inspiring kids in the kitchen
When it comes to making healthy meals and nutritious snacks, mom and dad typically take the lead in the kitchen. But as peak entertaining season gets underway, the additional cooking and baking can keep parents extra busy. Before you let party prep stress you out, remember that this can be a great time to let your children take part in important holiday traditions and learn a lot about cooking and healthy eating, too.
 
Find the perfect gift for the music lover on your list
While most people truly enjoy the holiday season, it can also bring a considerable amount of stress. One commonly reported cause of holiday stress is shopping for gifts.
 
Stressed by social obligations? Tips for an easier holiday season
The holiday season is filled with gatherings of friends and family. As invitations to different holiday events begin to flood your calendar, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out how to attend everything.
 
Can your morning cup of joe make the world a better place?
Can't start your day without a cup of coffee? You're not alone; 63 percent of adult Americans drink coffee every day, according to the 2012 National Coffee Association's National Coffee Drinking Trends study. All those cups of joe, however, can do more than give Americans the boost they need to wake up. They also have the potential to help coffee farmers around the world.
 
Steps for creating the ultimate game day space
Looking for a great space to chill out and hang with the dudes? Call it the basement, the garage, a home bar, or just a room dedicated to enjoying the game - it's your man cave. This year, take your space to the next level with these important game day essentials. If you're lucky - it'll become a known game day spot for seasons to come.
 
Going gluten free may not be enough to manage celiac disease
If you suffer from abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, joint pain, skin rash, mouth sores or tingling in the legs and feet, you may be one of the approximately 1 percent of Americans who are diagnosed with celiac disease. For those who are diagnosed with celiac disease, following a strict gluten-free diet is currently the only option available when seeking symptomatic relief. While the growing availability of gluten-free products available in stores may make it easier to manage these symptoms, is a gluten-free diet enough to make symptoms go away?
 
Homemade alternatives to Halloween candy
Processed, sugar-packed candies are collected door-to-door every year at Halloween. This year, try a different angle with homemade sweet treats that parents can make with their kids for Halloween.
 
Baking basics are a recipe for holiday success
Food is an integral part of many celebrations, and whether it's Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or a family get-together, chances are there's a baked good in attendance. Perhaps you're thinking of trying your hand at some family recipes you've never made before, or want to experiment with favorites from other holiday traditions. Whatever dish you make this holiday season, these baking basics help ensure success.
 
Three easy tips for cooking with kids
Once temperatures start to drop, keeping kids active can be a difficult task as weekends migrate away from park visits and Little League games to more time spent indoors. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do in your own home to keep children engaged and help limit their video game and TV time. One of those things is cooking together, which reinforces math, science and reading comprehension skills while building great memories.
 
Practice makes perfect: a dress rehearsal for your turkey
The holidays are approaching and before you know it, you'll be thinking about that daunting task of cooking a turkey. This holiday season, make sure your bird impresses all the guests and relatives by conducting a dress rehearsal for your turkey.
 
Seven simple tips for prepping your home for the holidays
There's something about the holiday season that makes gathering with family and friends extra special. But between the cooking, decorating and shopping, preparing for the holidays with that never-ending to-do list can be overwhelming.
 
Enjoy special holiday meals that have great nutrition
The most wonderful time of the year always means great tasting food! From family gatherings to holiday parties, sweet treats and delicious meals are everywhere during the holidays, but that shouldn't prevent you from eating healthy. Whether it is a side dish, gingerbread cookies or turkey, you can still enjoy the best holiday meals while keeping your health in mind.
 
Gracious etiquette tips to survive holiday gatherings
Whether you are hosting a fantastic holiday gathering or you're the gracious guest, ask yourself this question: Are you comfortable with your knowledge of etiquette? Are you confident in your table manners or do you admit you take your cue by watching those around you?
 
Small bites make holiday entertaining easier
Mouth-watering desserts in small bites are all the rage this holiday season. Guests love the idea of having lots of choices at holiday gatherings, so more options in smaller portions will be popular this year.
 
Hot cooking trends for cool weather foods
With the return of cool autumn weather, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting foods. But cold-weather cooking needn't be dull. This year, take your menu cues from restaurant and cooking trends to create fun fall foods your entire family will enjoy.
 
No tricks here: Treat guests to a hair-raising Halloween experience
Whether prepping for trick-or-treaters or hosting a party fit for Frankenstein, turning your home into a haunted house can be fun and easy. With these tips, before you know it, your home will be transformed into the spookiest house on the block.
 
Simple steps to perfect slow-cooker meals
The slow cooker captures the essence of the season with the first sniff of simmering comfort food. Convenient, economical and versatile, slow cookers are becoming popular again.
 
Dark chocolate: the new dessert
If you are looking for a treat to complement your next meal, consider dark chocolate. A little goes a long way, making it the perfect choice to fit a balanced lifestyle.
 
Party-planning tips to make a happy host
Every host knows the elements of a great party - fantastic food and beverages, just the right balance of sophistication and fun, and decor that speaks to the season and theme of your soiree. In the right combination, those ingredients ensure guests will have a great time. But what about your good time? Staging a party should be every bit as sweet for you as attending it is for your guests.
 
Expert tips to transform your style for fall
With fall's arrival, many people change out their wardrobe, meals and turn up the thermostat, but often forget that just a few simple changes can get their home and other parts of their life ready for autumn. Renowned designer David Bromstad offers his quick and simple tips to transition and transform your interior spaces for the season, no matter your budget or style.
 
Daring pairings: matching food and wine for the perfect Valentine's Day meal
Whether you're a trained chef or simply enjoy cooking at home, there's always a certain amount of trepidation at the thought of having guests for dinner. Do you go out on a culinary limb and serve something impressively daring, or do you play it safe with a tried and true menu? If you decide to take a chance, how daring are you? And, if your menu is an adventure for the taste buds, what wine do you pair with it?
 
Back to school, back to easy meals
With the hectic back-to-school season underway, it's time to get back to easy weeknight meals. Preparing a wholesome and delicious dinner may feel extra stressful when time is scarce. That's why many busy families rely on slow cookers to get them through the week. In fact, slow cooking can speed up your meal planning in a big way.
 
Think outside the lunch box to make school lunches they'll love
Many parents prefer packing their kids' school lunches for a number of reasons, from cost savings to the confidence of having better control over what their children eat. But packing the same-old, same-old every day can get tired fast - for both parent and child. By adding a dollop of creativity to packed lunches, parents can ensure they serve something kids will enjoy throughout the school year.
 

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