Apr 29th 11 Posted by Cindy Schwanke

what is ganache?

Ganache-(ga-nosh) a rich blend of  chocolate and heavy cream and optionally, flavorings, used as a pastry or candy filling or a frosting. This defination is from the ‘On Baking’  book we use in the culinary classes at ICUE, Institute for Culinary Education at College of the Canyons. This definition is very accurate except the definition fails to inform that there are 827 different ways to... read more

Feb 9th 11 Posted by Dawn Walker

healthy heart v-day

Walk into any retail establishment this time of year and you are bombarded with all kinds of chocolates, candy and other sweet treats to celebrate Valentine’s Day.  Advertisements for indulgent Valentine’s Day dinners are everywhere. Ironic that the holiday depicted with beautiful pink & red hearts could be so damaging to your own heart. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Your... read more

Jan 19th 11 Posted by Cindy Schwanke

follow that recipe

Is there a perfect recipe that you love and is your go to favorite. You know, your invited to a party and asked to bring a dish and you take out that old faithful recipe, the one you have been making for years becuase you know it works. The paper it is written on is probably wrinkled and stained with various spills and splats from years of wear and tear.  Keep that recipe! Really great recipes, no... read more

Jan 12th 11 Posted by Dawn Walker

calories on menu items

On my recent trip to New York City, I passed over some very delectable treats. Loving food as much as I do, you are probably wondering how this would happen. New York City Health Code Section 81.50 requires covered food service establishments that hold New York City Health Department permits to post calorie information prominently on menu boards and menus. Fast forward two months and a trip with the... read more

Dec 29th 10 Posted by Dawn Walker

introducing valley produce

For those of you whole haven’t ventured over to the old Bristol Farms, a new market has opened. Part Mediterranean, with a flash of Eastern European this market is sure to be the “where do I find THAT” market. I first starting shopping at the location on Vanowen in Reseda years ago. The place was always packed. Their second location opened in Simi Valley. The first thing you notice when... read more

Nov 26th 10 Posted by Evelyn Santos

the largest ship afloat

“Allure of the Seas will soon share the title of the most extravagant and revolutionary cruise ship on the high seas.”   When Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas® debuted last December, the largest and most innovative ship afloat challenged every conceivable limit of existing cruising concepts. Now, Oasis’ sister Allure of the SeasSM is set to rival her with even more breakthroughs... read more

Nov 22nd 10 Posted by Cindy Schwanke

fresh vs. the rest

Does anyone buy Bisquick? Recently I had some leftover chicken and was in need of a quick dinner for the family. I dashed into the grocery store and went to the produce section. I picked up some carrots, onions, celery and some fresh herbs. The light bulb finally went on, chicken pot pie was what would be for dinner. Chicken Pot Pie, (Turkey Pot Pie is a great way to use up leftover turkey from... read more

Nov 17th 10 Posted by Dawn Walker

eat well and sensibly

The holidays are here and with them come the inevitable parties, family get-togethers and gifts that tempt you to forget about healthful eating and moderation. But there are ways you can enjoy the holidays without putting on extra pounds going into the new year! Here are some tips to keep in mind: Smaller/More Frequent Meals – Rather than eating three large meals, eat 5 or 6 small meals to help... read more