Cooking Tips & Inspiration

  • cookout

    Practice Food Safety for 4th of July Cookouts

    By Chef Alli on May 10, 2018

    Independence Day is on its way, and nothing beats eating a refreshing dessert while watching fireworks light up the sky. But before you can dig in and enjoy, you’ll want to make sure your cookout has...

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  • mom and daughter

    8 Unique Mothers Day Gift Ideas

    By Chef Alli on May 8, 2018

    This year, why not give mom something simple, heartfelt  and clutter-free? I’ve gathered eight of my favorite gift ideas (perfect for any budget!) that are sure to fill her heart, but not her home....

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  • 8 Reasons You Need an Electric Pressure Cooker

    By Chef Alli on February 19, 2018

    Like most, I was highly skeptical about how great electric pressure cooking is. That was four years ago and I've never looked back. Now I'm a total convert; a huge electric pressure cooking fan....

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  • brunch

    Easy Easter Brunch Menu

    By Chef Alli on February 6, 2018

    If you're gathering the clan for an Easter celebration, why not consider brunch? I love hosting a late-morning brunch because it gives me more time to prepare before guests arrive. Brunch seems to be...

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  • fruit snack

    Apple donuts

    By Cara Harbstreet on January 2, 2018

    Fruit is a common snack for kids because it’s so convenient. It can get boring, and sometimes we need a little change to spice up our routine. Apple donuts are easy to prepare and make snack time...

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  • hardboiled egg with hummus and bacon

    A flavorful healthy snack

    By Cara Harbstreet on January 2, 2018

    Many snacks are chock full of sodium and over time our taste buds can become accustomed to craving more salt. Instead of hitting the salt shaker, we can sprinkle a small amount of coarse grain salt...

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  • English muffin and peanut butter and banana

    A sweet healthy snack

    By Cara Harbstreet on January 2, 2018

    Fresh fruit is naturally sweet but sometimes that just doesn’t quite cut it. A whole grain English muffin with peanut or almond butter can serve as a base for your favorite fruit topped with mini...

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  • crunchy snack with vegetables and hummus

    A healthy snack with crunch

    By Cara Harbstreet on January 2, 2018

    If you're looking for a filling, healthy and crunchy snack, look no further than fresh vegetables. Fresh veggies provide the ultimate crunch factor, and including a grain such as pretzels or pita...

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  • charcuterie board

    How to build a charcuterie board

    By Chef Alli on December 15, 2017

    Charcuterie boards are all the rage these days. Charcuterie (shahr-cute-uh-ree) is a French word for any smoked, dry-cured or cooked meat, and they can be a tasty and beautiful addition to any dinner...

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  • Fresh vs frozen vegetables

    Canned vegetables vs frozen

    By Cara Harbstreet on October 30, 2017

    Fresh vegetables are better than canned or frozen, right? Not so fast. There are clear advantages and disadvantages to using fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables depending on your recipe,...

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