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Regional Spotlight: Chicago
Chicago is the most-visited city in the Midwest. Sure, it is a large business destination, but some travelers visit just to enjoy what the windy city has to offer. Chicago is full of art, culture and delicious food. With any major city, the challenge is not finding something you want to do; it’s finding the time to do it all. Chicago is the third-most-populous city in the United States and is home to Navy Pier, the iconic bean sculpture in […]
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Dish Spotlight: Paella
This flavorful rice dish is native to the eastern coast of Spain in the Valencia region. This Mediterranean area is full of life and cultural flavor, just like the food. Paella is very flavorful and even a point of pride for many Valencians. It is said that the decision to include bell peppers in paella was once brought before Spain’s Parliament. The dish has come a long way from its origins – a lunchtime mixture of leftovers enjoyed by laborers. Today, restaurants […]
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Choosing The Right Type Of Pasta For Your Sauce
When you are just getting started in the culinary arts, it’s important to take things slow and begin with easy recipes. Some of the simplest ones to try out are pasta-inspired, as they require a classic preparation that is perfect for learning cooking basics. For starters, the shape of your pasta should dictate your choice of sauce, and vice versa. Although this may sound picky, certain varieties are simply better suited for the season or flavors of a dish. Here is a simple breakdown of […]
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How To Cook Edamame
Edamame are soybean pods that are popular in Japanese and Chinese cuisine. They are versatile legumes that can be added to numerous dishes or served alone. Edamame is a great source of plant protein, fiber and folate, making it a smart snacking option. You can get edamame fresh or frozen at your local grocer. It can be served in the pods, lightly salted, as a healthy appetizer or snack. Simply squeeze the beans out by biting the pod. You will get some […]
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Potato, Zucchini, and Tomato Gratin Recipe
Potato, Zucchini, and Tomato Gratin Recipe 10 servings Ingredients: 2 3/4 pounds medium tomatoes (about 10), halved, cored, seeded 3/4 cup olive oil, divided, plus 2 tablespoons 1 pound medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, cut into 1/4-inch-thick rounds 1 pound large zucchini, trimmed, cut diagonally into 1/4-inch-thick slices 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese Method: 1. Preheat oven to 250°F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange tomato halves, cut side up, on prepared […]
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Baking With Gluten-Free Flours
Gluten-free diets can become challenging when trying to create food in the baking & pastry arts. Whether you or someone close to you has this dietary restriction, it can be hard to bake breads or desserts without wheat flour. However, making gluten-free treats is a good skill to master while working on your online baking courses, because as more people become aware of the condition there is an increasing demand for a better and wider variety of options on menus. Besides […]
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How To Make Easy, Healthy Fruit Dip
Getting the recommended number of fruits into your diet doesn’t have to mean eating a plain apple every day. If you’re stuck in a rut and are bored by your routine, try dressing your fruit up with a delicious fruit dip. No one said you couldn’t enjoy your recommended daily values! Serve a sweet and creamy fruit dip with fresh strawberries, grapes, pineapple and bananas. This is a quick, simple recipe to serve at any party and a healthier alternative to a cheese plate. In […]
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Blueberry Pie Recipe
Blueberry Pie Recipe INGREDIENTS Crust: One double recipe for all butter pie crust dough Filling ingredients: 6 cups of fresh (or frozen) blueberries, rinsed and stems removed (if using frozen, defrost and drain first) 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening) 1/2 cup white granulated sugar 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 2 Tbsp butter (unsalted), cut into small pieces Egg wash ingredients: 1 egg 1 tablespoon milk METHOD 1 Prepare the crust. Roll out half of the […]
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Apple Cranberry Turnovers Recipe
Apple Cranberry Turnovers Makes 6 pastries Ingredients: 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/4-inch dice 3 tablespoons dried cranberries 3 tablespoons apple jelly, heated 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon 1 frozen puff pastry sheet (from a 17 1/4-ounce package), thawed 1 large egg, lightly beaten 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into bits 1 tablespoon sugar Method: Put oven rack in lower third of oven and preheat oven to 400°F. Butter a large baking sheet. Stir together […]
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How To Make Homemade Trail Mix
When you’re feeling a little sluggish, grab a handful of trail mix for a quick energy boost. This is an easy snack to learn to cook and even easier to store for a quick bite on the go. You can stash a bag of mix in your car, at the office or in your gym bag. Prepare a high-energy variation of trail mix for long hikes or a sweeter version to curb cravings. You can make large batches and fill plastic baggies […]
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Homemade Yogurt 101
Yogurt is an easy food product to whip up right in your own home. However, most people don’t think about it becoming part of their collection of simple recipes. Making your own yogurt is healthier and some people will even argue that it is better tasting than store-bought varieties. If you are looking at online culinary courses or simply want to brush up on new cooking tips and tricks, try out this easy-to-make recipe and you’ll never have to buy yogurt again. Homemade yogurt recipe 4 […]
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How To Make Baked Kale Chips
When you’re craving a little extra crunch in your snacks, it is easy to grab for unhealthy fillers like potato chips, pretzels and nachos. While these choices may curb the cravings for something crunchy and salty, they provide little nutrition and can lead to overeating. Next time you have a snack attack, reach for some healthy kale chips that will satisfy your craving and your body. Kale chips are easy to make and can be prepared in large batches to store […]
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