Category: Foodie For Thought

Plant-Based Thanksgiving


A traditional Thanksgiving dinner with a turkey and all the trimmings takes hours of time and effort to prepare. Why not change things up this year by offering a sumptuous plant-based feast for family and friends?

Back-to-School Snack Attack!


As the leisurely days of summer come to an end and school starts again, life seems to shift gears into “full speed ahead.” With work, sports, homework, errands and after-school activities, it’s important to fuel up with healthy snacks to avoid running on empty or filling up with junk food.

Just Peachy!


While some may argue that the best way to enjoy a perfectly ripe peach is standing over the kitchen sink with juice dripping down your chin, there are almost endless ways to savor one of the Sunshine State’s favorite fruits.

Extravagant Easter Eggs


Whether you are looking to create a gorgeous centerpiece for a holiday brunch or you just want to create some memories with your children, dyeing Easter eggs is a fun undertaking for the entire family.

Dine Like a Dignitary


They may live in the most famous house in the country, dine with royalty from afar, and jet across the world in Air Force One, but when it comes to food preferences, U.S. presidents are just like the rest of us. Each one has a favorite comfort food or snack for which he is known.

Instant Pot Inspiration

Goodbye slow cooker, hello Instant Pot. If you’ve resolved to do more cooking in 2018, you might want to invest in this multifunctional cooking device that takes the place of several kitchen appliances, clearing up counter space and slashing meal-preparation time.

‘Tis the Season For Treats


I know the holiday season has arrived at our house when my favorite grocery store starts carrying Andes Creme de Menthe baking chips. These little minty morsels elevate everyday chocolate chip cookies to a special seasonal treat. (Find the cookie recipe on the back of the bag.)

A Thanksgiving Day Game Plan


If the thought of cooking a turkey and all of the trimmings for family and friends makes you break out in a cold sweat, don’t panic. With a little pre-planning, smart use of your kitchen, and a little help from your friends, this Thanksgiving could turn out to be one of the most enjoyable yet!

Dinner is Ready!


With work, school and extracurricular activities, you may feel as if getting dinner on the table is a Herculean feat. While it takes some effort, eating together as a family offers plenty of rewards.

Brain-Power Breakfasts


On top of fitting in a trip to the gym, sending that last-minute email, rounding up homework, packing lunches and finding shoes that match, eating a healthy breakfast can be a challenge for everyone. However, eating smartly in the morning helps adults and kids concentrate better and resist the urge to reach for energy drinks and sugary treats later in the day.

An Easy Summertime Treat!


These days, ice pops are experiencing renewed popularity with peak-season produce, savory spices, coffee, fresh herbs and even vegetables. They are easy to make, fun for kids, inexpensive and versatile enough to accommodate any diet. So, why not make some this summer? The only tools you need are a mold, a few ingredients and your imagination.

A Taste of the Tropics

From Florida’s northern coast to the Keys, this state is prime real estate for tropical fruit, many of which even grow in Greater Orlando. High in fiber and dense in vitamins and minerals, these delicious beauties are a healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth, cool off and spark up your diet for summer.

Happy Earth Day!

Feed Your Soul With Planet-Friendly Dishes

by Kirsten Harrington


Earth Day is April 22, so why not take time to celebrate Mother Nature by trying some fun, new recipes? From green smoothies to tempting yet healthy desserts, there are plenty of ways to please your taste buds and the planet.

Sensational Strawberries

Florida’s Season Is in Full Swing

by Kirsten Harrington

strawberries


According to Haley Veilleux, retail manager of Scotts Country Market at Long & Scott Farms, the best strawberries are those that are red all the way to the tip (photo provided by Long & Scott Farms.)


There are so many benefits to living in the Sunshine State. Florida strawberries are just one of them.

Destination Dining: Winter Garden

Sample, Sip & Savor Your Way Through This West Orange Gem!

by Kirsten Harrington


With a weekly farmers market; lively festivals; numerous restaurants; and artisan shops selling gourmet goods like craft beer, chocolate and olive oil, Winter Garden is a food-lover’s paradise. The following is just a small peek at what the area has to offer:

Upcoming Events

• This weekend is a great time to head to Winter Garden for the sixth annual Blues & BBQ (Feb. 18, from 4–10 p.m., at the Downtown Pavilion, 104 Lakeview Ave.). Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the sounds and flavors of the South, with all profits benefiting the American Cancer Society.

Game Day Treats That Will Leave Them Cheering for More

For a Super Super Bowl Sunday!

by Kirsten Harrington


The best Super Bowl parties offer plenty of game-day food.


Food, friends and football — there’s nothing quite as American as gathering for the big game. With Super Bowl right around the corner, we’ve put together a game plan of satisfying side dishes and tempting treats that will have your friends and family cheering!

MetroWest resident Nicole Gower and her family have been hosting Super Bowl parties for years. It’s a great excuse to hang out with friends, play some flag football, and watch the game. Nicole suggests providing a hearty dish, which could be as simple as ordering pizza, and then asking guests to bring a side dish.