What's a better refreshment on a balmy weekend than a thirst-quenching tumbler of iced tea? In my mind, the only thing that can top that is, well, tea that's been spiked with a little something special that's guaranteed to make your lazy afternoon picnics even more lackadaisical. On Sunday, when the sun shone high in the sky, I threw a handful of skewers on the grill. Then, for all that toilsome Read more

After eating my way through the cupcake craze, I'm ready to put my muffin tins away and dust off the cake pans that have been sitting at the back of my cupboards. Don't get me wrong: I love a tiny handheld treat. But there's something very satisfying slicing into — and serving — a full-sized cake. This time of year, I want something that goes well with a cup of tea or a scoop of fresh Read more

Warmer months mean lazy afternoon tea parties, and these thumbprint cookies are a dainty treat to add to the table. For added crunch and flavor, try rolling the crisp, crumbly shortbread in toasted, slivered almonds. Although vegan, the smooth, dark chocolate "buttercream" imparts rich, tart notes to the otherwise delicate cookie. Take a look at the fast and easy recipe. Read more

Simple syrup is one hot ingredient right now, and what's so great about it is that it takes minimal effort to create something special and useful. We've been noticing unique and exciting flavor combinations and recipes, like rhubarb and rosewater syrup, popping up all over the place. To make your own flavored simple syrup, all you need to do is add whatever flavoring component (citrus zest, Read more

Kentucky is perhaps best known for thoroughbred horse racing, mint juleps, and — lately — its national championship-winning college basketball team. But the state is quite a foodie haven with a rich culinary tradition. Thanks to the many ethnic influences on its cuisine, Kentuckians have developed a diverse array of foods over the last few centuries that make the state a worthy destination Read more

With Spring in full bloom, there's no better way to get into the spirit of the season than some fresh, fragrant flowers. You may think that getting a dose of the color and beauty of flowers could only come in the form of an arrangement, but guess again. It may sound a little outside of your comfort zone, but injecting a little flower power may add a potent punch of flavor or lively color to wake Read more

We all have our weaknesses, and yours may be a Starbucks addiction or even an avid book reading habit. Although we advocate saving, we're also a big fan of being able to indulge on occasion. After all, if you keep denying yourself, it might be counterintuitive because you may end up buying on impulse. Here are some ways you can still enjoy your favorite purchases, yet save at the same Read more

Check out this delicious recipe for mochi cupcakes with green tea frosting from OnSugar blog Yoo Eatz: This week, my neighbor Jamie invited me to a Real Housewives-style lunch (sans crazy drama and plastic surgery) at her house with a couple other ladies from the block. Our other neighbor Cathy offered to whip up some of her delicious egg rolls and noodles, Jamie supplied her precious Lupicia Read more