I’ve come a long way with Strawberry Shortcake. Remember that berry-bubblegum-scented doll from the ’80s? Her striped socks and pink beret brought a little spunk to those fruity, freckled cheeks. And remember that other strawberry shortcake of the ’80s? When my mom bought those cellophane packages of dimpled cakes and filled them with berries and a mountain of Cool Whip, […]
Big Bertha and Box Car Willie
The title of this post sounds like a colorful sideshow act that you want to see at the next children’s birthday party, doesn’t it? Just hearing these names conjurs up colorful visions. What if I told you that you’ll soon fall in love with a Gypsy and go fruity over Orange Banana, Pink Banana, and Green Grape? Trust me on […]
A Crateful of Orangey Sunshine
The humble orange and I, we aren’t good friends. I’ve long avoided plain old grocery store oranges and tangerines. They’re usually too bitter, too flavorless, too sour for me. I’d much rather eat an apple or a pear than suffer the stinging acid of an orange. I’m not really a fan of orange juice either. I’d rather have milk or water […]
Consider Cauliflower
In reading through the forecast of food trends predicted to immerge in 2013, I learned that this is the year of vegetables. Great news for good health! And the break out star is rumored to be cauliflower. Even better, that’s one of my very favorites. When roasted, cruciferous cauliflower has a creamy texture that’s matched only by its slightly sweet, […]
2013′s First Garden Update
Brighten up a gray day (at least that’s how it is here in Alabama) with the first garden update of 2013 from Farmer Mary Beth. -Phillip In our Cooking Light garden this January day, it’s a balmy, drippy 68 degrees. What? Yes. You read that correctly. And just a few days ago it was 28 degrees. Both the plants and […]
What To Cook Right Now: A Healthy Chili
Could there be any food more perfect this time of year than meaty, hearty chili—made light for the new year? Here’s a new take on the classic, amped up with rich ground bison in place of ground beef (but use beef if you can’t find the bison) and chunks of sweet acorn squash. A secret ingredient—cremini mushrooms—goes into the pot […]
3 Cocktails to Ring in the New Year
This New Year’s, skip plain ol’ Champagne, and celebrate with one of these easy, festive cocktails instead. Cranberry Kir Royale: This blush-toned sparkler makes good use of leftover cranberry sauce. Just be sure to let the liqueur steep in advance 4 days before the party! Sparkling Pomegranate Cocktail: Ready in under 5 minutes, this fizzy drink features one of winter’s […]
Garden Update: Giving Thanks
Another update from our Farmer Mary Beth about our garden and why we should all be thankful for food. As we all crowd into kitchens and around dining tables, prepping, chopping, baking, cooking, and devouring the nap-inducing Thanksgiving buffet, there is no better time to share a garden update giving thanks for our food. We are thankful to you all […]
Mistletoe-ready holiday makeup
Don’t take a “tacky Christmas sweater” approach to holiday makeup (red and green eye shadow? HONEY, NO.): In this case, more is definitely not merrier. Instead, add a bit of something special to just one feature. If you want to play up your lips… I love a good red lipstick, but cherry red can read a little too Mrs. Claus […]











