Olive Tapenade

Heather says: Olive tapenade is a condiment from the Mediterranean region, some would say it is specifically from the Provençal area of France and others argue it’s from Spain. Who cares as long as it tastes good, right? If you hate olives of any sort, this tapenade is not for you, just keep browsing. If you …

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10 Things My Grandfather Taught Me

Brian says: Growing up in a house without a father meant two things: playing “catch” was primarily a spectator’s sport and by default, you were last when it came to hot water and most other bathroom privileges. This also means acquiring a great deal of manly advice from one of the most influential males in …

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Audio Book Rentals Through the Library

I may be the last to know about online audio book rentals through the library. It’s a parenting sin to admit this, but I hate, loathe, despise, and dread taking my children to the library. Well, not my stepdaughter, but in this scenario, she doesn’t count, being above the age of reason and all. The …

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Squeamish Talk

Heather says: Life is messy. A few days ago, I was pulling apart a rotisserie chicken for chicken and dumpling soup. My mother-in-law walked past and commented something to the effect of, “I don’t know how you can do that.” (She didn’t say it in a rude manner, it was just a casual comment). I …

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Wading Into Seafood

Heather says: How do you feel about buying seafood? I talk to a lot of readers and I know some readers find the process of buying fish intimidating. They don’t know what to look for, don’t know whether to buy farm raised or wild caught. If they do buy wild caught, there are concerns about …

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The Drawbacks to Smooth Top Ranges

Heather says: If you are in the market to buy a new electric range, be aware that there is an additional cost to factor into the purchasing decision; you may need new cookware. If you have older nonstick or thin bottomed pans, the pans may have warped which makes cooking on a smooth top range …

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How to Make Drop Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings is a classic cool weather comfort food. However, many people find dumplings intimidating, thinking there is a big secret to making them.  We bet you will find that this ratio recipe for drop dumplings is easy to make and a great technique to keep in your toolkit. Nothing says comfort food like …

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Chili Honey Chicken Thighs

Heather says: This easy recipe for baked chicken is extremely versatile, not only is it great for chicken thighs, it can be used on a cut-up whole chicken, and boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. This chili rub and honey brushing sauce would also be fantastic for grilled chicken. [pullshow=”instr”]The recipe is written for 4 …

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Peach Salsa

Heather says: Summer dreams are topped with this simple  peach salsa, well mine are anyway. I haven’t met a fish yet that doesn’t get along with the peach and jalapeno medley: catfish, salmon, halibut, mahi mahi, and tuna all work equally well, so go with your favorite.  It also works as as a condiment for grilled …

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