Healthy Dining

Snacking doesn't have to be unhealthy

Snacking often elicits mixed reviews. Some health plans say that it is important to eat several small meals or snacks during the day to keep metabolism rates in check. Other information states that snacks can be a person's undoing, causing unnecessary weight gain -- especially when snacking is frequent. These mixed feelings can be a little confusing.
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Host a specialty spa party at home

The rising cost of consumer products or services has left many budget-conscious people at a loss as how to enjoy themselves, especially when planning a party. But fun does not need to be sacrificed in the name of frugality. Just recreate some of your favorite activities at home for a fraction of the cost of going out.
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How parents can dine out without drama

Some parents cringe at the mere mention of dining out with their children, envisioning 90 minutes of crying, taunting and tantrums. While some cultures place great significance on dining out as a family, North Americans seem less inclined to do so -- unless it is at a family-friendly (not food-friendly) chain restaurant or fast food establishment. However, dining out with young children doesn't have to be a debacle. Employ a few of the following tips, and your next night on the town with the youngsters in tow might just prove to be a nice family experience.
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Potluck's Back -- Let's Eat!

By: Carla Jordan

Call it a sign of the times or just plain good luck for those of us yearning to swap fast food fare for some tasty home cooking. Potluck gatherings are back and one of this year's hottest trends in entertaining.

Although these communal "luck of the pot" meals (where everyone brings their favorite dish) hearken back to the late 19th century, they found their footing in the mid-1950's when it seemed like every mom in the neighborhood was filling casserole dishes for church socials and family get-togethers.
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Bring the steakhouse home

Mouth-watering, flavorful steaks have made the steakhouse a family favorite. Now, you can re-create those same savory steaks at home with this easy recipe and grilling guide.
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Beef cuts made easy

Millions of people enjoy meals centered around beef. There are several different cuts of beef and having so many different offerings available at the meat market can make it confusing to the average consumer. It's difficult to know which cuts have stronger flavors, which take longer to cook and which offer more texture.
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A guide to grilling with wood and smoke

Slow smoked chicken, ribs, and brisket are staples of the traditional American barbecue. The deep smoky flavors and fall-off-the-bone tenderness is a hallmark of the low-and-slow -- a low temperature, cooked over a long time -- cooking technique.
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