Acorn Squash: Five Low Cal Ways


Updated 11/15/07 10:54 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 12 comments

Acorn Squash: Five Low Cal Ways

The orange flesh of winter squash is not only a visual delight (orange is my favorite color), but it is also super good for you. Loaded with beta carotene, the antioxidant that gives the squash its color, and fiber (5.7 grams per cup), acorn squash is an excellent addition to many meals and it is oh so easy to prepare. You simply: Cut the squash in two, scoop out the seeds Brush the sides with Read more

In Season: Mustard Greens


Updated 05/28/12 5:30 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Choose and Cook Mustard Greens

If you've never tasted mustard greens, then it's time to get acquainted with this tasty, peppery vegetable. First discovered in the Himalayas in India, mustard greens have become an integral part of cuisine in Asian countries like Nepal, India, Japan, and China, but they're also a staple in some parts of the US! They're typically associated with the tasty, old-school favorites of the Deep South, Read more

Why You Should Marinate Your Meat


Updated 05/26/12 8:00 PM · Posted by · 5 comments

Health Benefits of Marinating Meat, and How to Do It Safely

Barbecue season is upon us, so let's celebrate by grilling, since it's an easy and low-fat way to cook. If you're grilling, protect your health by marinating your meat. Here's why marinating is good for your health and tips on how to keep it safe. Marinating meat, fish, and poultry significantly decreases the amount of carcinogenic heterocyclic amines (HCAs) produced when the meat is cooked at Read more

How to Curb Salt — but Not Flavor — in Your Cooking


Updated 05/23/12 6:30 PM · Posted by · 4 comments

How to Cook With Less Salt

By now you're probably familiar with MyPlate, the government's new food pyramid replacement; in case you hadn't heard, based on the updated guidelines, Americans are consuming far more sodium than they should. And new research suggests that overconsumption of salt affects cognitive function. High blood pressure, water retention, and stupidity? That's too much to bear. The good news is that there Read more

4 Time-Saving Tips For a Healthy Lifestyle


Updated 05/24/12 1:20 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Healthy Time-Saving Tips

Summers can be incredibly busy — between shuttling kids to and from activities to planning and going on vacation, all the activities that come along with the season can leave you pressed for time. Luckily, we've got a few suggestions for how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, even if you've only got minutes to spare. Total-body in 20: Breaking up your workout in just 10- or 20-minute increments Read more

A First Ladylike Grilled Chicken Salad With Herb Vinaigrette


Updated 05/28/12 1:43 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe With Herb Sherry Vinaigrette From Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama exudes elegance, so it's no surprise that her recipe for chicken salad with herb vinaigrette is simple and sophisticated too. In honor of the First Lady's first cookbook, American Grown, coming out on May 29, I whipped up this easy and healthy dinner salad. This salad celebrates Summer greens, herbs, and grilling season, though if you don't have a grill, the chicken is just as Read more

Make Perfectly Grilled Vegetables Every Time


Updated 05/27/12 7:55 AM · Posted by · 4 comments

How to Grill Vegetables

Need a refresher this grilling season? Seasonal vegetables are an easy place to start, and whether you're prepping your veggies or preheating your grill, we've got you covered. The key? Timing is everything! We demonstrate our technique for cooking zucchini, asparagus, and portobello mushrooms, although this technique can be applied to your choice of produce. Watch our tutorial to master Read more

Walnuts: Our New Favorite Ingredient


Updated 05/10/12 7:01 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

How to Cook With Walnuts

Historically, walnuts haven't been an ingredient that comes to mind often when I'm cooking — I typically eat them out of my hand and in banana bread, but that's about it. But recently, I attended a seminar with cooking host Joanne Weir and the California Walnut Board and Commission, where we enjoyed a walnut-centered lunch. From that broadening meal, I learned so many new ways to incorporate Read more

From Marinades to Mix-Ins, Make the Most of Mustard


Updated 05/18/12 8:43 AM · Posted by · 2 comments

How to Cook With Mustard

Source: Flickr User jlastras While mustard's always delicious slathered onto your favorite sandwich, there are so many ways to go beyond the basics and get creative with this common yet versatile condiment. From marinades to mix-ins, there are plenty of ways to make the most of mustard for your next meal. Give your casseroles a bit of bite. From shepherd's pie to mac and cheese, a spoonful of Read more