Heather Solos 
Heather says: Sweeping a floor is not rocket science, but no one was born knowing how to operate a broom. First, choose the broom based on your flooring. If you have a new, smooth floor a broom with synthetic straw is your best bet. If your flooring is textured or worn, choose a straw broom. …
Heather says: Now I know you are just dying for a way to use your new-found basic marinara. How about eggplant parmesan? Those alien looking vegetables are quite tasty when oven fried in breadcrumbs and cheese. Eggplant Parmesan 2 ripe medium eggplant 1 cup breadcrumbs 2/3 cup grated parmesan (+shredded for garnish) ~ 1 tsp …
Heather says: Jarred sauces have their place, especially in a pantry designed to carry a family through extended power outages. However, it is nice to know that a basic marinara sauce requires few ingredients, minimal preparation, and only some time to simmer for robust flavor. Basic Marinara 2 TBSP olive oil 3 cloves garlic minced …
Heather says: Nothing says spring like fresh asparagus. Well, that is not quite true, there is also: pollen, hay fever, the first gnats of the year, and rain. However, there are few things I look forward to more than the price of asparagus dropping. Yes, I am still exaggerating, but it is a nice perk. …
Heather says: If you just cannot manage without dryer sheets, try cutting them in half. Yes, yes, it’s earth shattering, I know. Send your domestic questions to helpme@home-ec101.com.
BBQ is something we crave frequently. You can’t live in the Carolinas and not crave it. Of course, there is the issue of who has the better sauce between Heather and Lisa and even a few heated conversations on the validity of smoking a Boston Butt versus Whole Hog barbecue. Heather is team whole hog, …
Heather says: Have you ever wondered what to do with that last cup of coffee? OK, me neither, but I have brewed extra especially for this purpose. Rather than letting it sit on the hot plate and perfume the house with an aroma of burnt coffee, immediately pour the extra into a clean ice cube …
Dear Home Ec 101: I am working to improve our diet and I’ve read that dried beans have a lot less sodium than canned. I’m not a planner and can never remember to soak the beans the night before. Can I do a big batch and freeze them in portions? ~Trying in Trenton Heather says: …
Heather says: Feeling lonely? In the mood for someone to just drop by? Ignore your guest bathroom for any length of time and guests will come out of the woodwork.
Dear Home Ec 101: I hate and when I say hate, I mean it is with a loathing complete with skin crawling, heart palpitations, and cold sweats, to deal with customer service reps. Do you have any tips? ~Feeling shafted in Shakopee Heather says: I feel your pain, in every day life I am not …