It’s not easy removing beloved food items from one’s menu. I had both wheat and dairy intolerances as an infant, and while I did outgrow both, I have adjusted my diet to accommodate, at least in part, the wheat intolerance part of those childhood allergies. Allergies do return as one grows older, so it seemed… [Continue Reading]
There is more than one reason why Gluten-Free on a Shoestring by Nicole Hunn is a really good resource for those of us with wheat sensitivies, allergies, or restrictions. First, Nicole offers some sound tips for frugal living in general, specifically with regard to groceries and more specifically with regard to gluten-free items. She lists… [Continue Reading]
I was a problem child when it came to food allergies. Dairy? Out of the question. Wheat? Nope. Chocolate? I don’t think so. Fortunately, I did outgrow these allergies. I don’t think I would’ve enjoyed a life of cornflakes with ginger ale (doctor’s alternative to milk), which I loved as a child, but… As I… [Continue Reading]
For most of us, hummus is a delicious Middle Eastern dip made with mashed chick peas and served with pita bread. In recent years, the definition of hummus has expanded to include dips made from several types of cooked beans. This recipe is made with all the ingredients of a traditional hummus, with one surprising… [Continue Reading]
Since I was given the gift of The Moosewood Cookbook in the late 70′s, I have been a big fan of Chef Mollie Katzen and The Moosewood Collective’s vegetarian recipes. In the early cookbooks (there are 12 in publication now), recipes are delicious but heavy in dairy, eggs, and oil.
I was not completely sold on the idea of carrot soup when I first heard it. I gave it a try, though, and it quick became one of my favorite soups. I’m partial to it in the fall, probably because of carrot harvest, but it is light enough to be on your table year round…. [Continue Reading]
Dogs and cats are a lot like children. Buy them a new toy, and they’d rather play with the box. Keeping that in mind, there are some easy options in your home for entertaining your pet without spending a fortune… or anything at all, in some cases. The first is tug toys. Most dogs like… [Continue Reading]
Homemade gifts are not just the less expensive option for ‘trying times’. Speaking for myself, I truly appreciate a handmade gift. It doesn’t matter if it’s edible, wearable, or displayable. I appreciate the thought and effort that goes into a homemade gift. The converse is also true. I’d rather make gifts than scour the malls… [Continue Reading]
I recently worked in a chiropractor’s office. I usually work from home, but was interested in what drew people to the chiropractor. Beside personal injury, problems resulting from years of bad ‘desk’ habits are common. Exercise Ball This was a revelation to me. I noticed an exercise ball behind the reception desk and asked the… [Continue Reading]
Dill pickles rock. Well, pickles rock. I have a small garden, and the bounty varies. When I get enough cucumbers to make a batch of pickles, and my tastebuds say ‘dill pickles’, this is the recipe I use. I’ve tried several that offer up good flavor, but this one gives nice, crispy pickles and good… [Continue Reading]
As far as flexible foodstuffs, nothing beats the pumpkin. It does everything — soups, main dishes, appetizers, side dishes and, my personal favorite, dessert. The Whoopie Pie is an extremely popular dessert here in Maine. It comes in many permutations besides the most popular chocoate. It didn’t take much to make the Pumpkin Whoopie Pie… [Continue Reading]
Thinking of hosting a Halloween party that pops? Want to have a haunted house, but think it’ll cost too much? There are many ways to provide a haunt and do it for minimum expense. Any area in your house can be “haunted” for a party. It doesn’t need to be a whole house. It can… [Continue Reading]
Summer squash is always one of the most successful vegetables in my garden, so I always welcome new and varied ways to prepare it. This preparation has been in my recipe box for many years; it is inexpensive and very tasty. This is my favorite use for late season or larger zucchini, crookneck and pattypan… [Continue Reading]
This is a delicious, quick asparagus soup. It is great by the cup as an appetizer, or by the bowl with a crusty roll or sandwich as an element of a light lunch. Either way, this soup is a very nice alternative use of asparagus. Asparagus Soup 1 lb fresh asparagus – tough ends broken… [Continue Reading]
I discovered this recipe one year when I received a windfall of both corn and tomatoes and wanted a way to use both. It’s a lovely relish, an abundant recipe, and a very tasty condiment. A pint of red corn relish is a big hit as a hostess gift, and is great for Christmas giving… [Continue Reading]
