March Mayhem begins this week. With celebrations happening over the weekend and continuing through Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday (March 8), one might believe that the last day of the Carnival season would prompt a reprieve after all the debaucheries and gluttonous delirium.  It is, after all, the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent.  But for sports fans, the craziness of March Madness extends opportunities for social gatherings. Lucky for us, the foods for one celebration can be easily interchanged, extended, and/or reproduced for the other.  Is there anything better than working …

Have you been feeling that, since the holidays, there hasn’t been a lot of room to regroup with your diet? Although January was a month of new yearly goals and resolutions, it seemed to zip by before we could say 2011.  Then, as January walked out the door, February entered and we were handed Valentine’s Day. Holiday, after celebration, after party, where has there been a reprieve? Are you feeling as if you’ve been around rich foods, decadent candies, and sweet desserts around the clock? Before March’s tempting merriments, like Mardi Gras, March Madness, and St. Patrick’s Day, this week is a …

Today is your birthday! Today you are you!...There is no one alive that is you-er than you! A birthday is a special day to celebrate.  It’s an even more special day when friends and/or the kids are involved. And, who says a birthday must be yours, or a loved ones, to celebrate? Celebrate someone else’s very special day, like Dr. Seuss! Although we lost Theodore Seuss Giesel in 1991, the 87-year-old was responsible for bringing countless smiles and laughter to all those with whom he made an impact, especially those who learned to read and rhyme through his many whimsical stories. Every year on…

What do you have planned for this weekend?  Valentine's Day is Monday, so that leaves two glorious days to celebrate your love and admiration for that special someone.  Desserts are tasty delicacies that, when done right, can bring a date to another level. Before grabbing hold of some random dessert, think about who you’re celebrating with, his/her likes and dislikes, and the message you’re trying to convey. If wanting to leave a lasting impression, a little thought and initiative goes a long way. Consider sending your messages throughout the day.  Personal candy grams, sweet treat messages …

Have you made your plans?  Ordered flowers?  Bought that card with the perfect saying? Arrange for a babysitter?  There may still be two weeks left, but Valentine’s Day will be here before we know it. Even though there is some time left, it may not be wise to leave planning for the last minute.  It is better that nothing is left to chance.   Going out to eat can be romantic, especially with so many fabulous restaurants in the area.  But, why wade through crowds and the wait times, not knowing if service will be sufficient. Making dinner at home, whether for or with a significant other, and …

Braised, grilled, or pan-seared, encrusted or lightly seasoned, accompanied by a mint sauce, yogurt sauce, or orange glaze, the possibilities for lamb are immeasurable. Although lamb does not appear as popular as some other meats here in the United States, it remains a very tender meat that is a good source of zinc, iron and Vitamin B12. It is also low in fat and moderate when it comes to calories, as a 3 ounce serving of cooked lean lamb can range from 155 - 200 calories, depending on which of the five different cuts is being consumed. What is it about lamb that leads people to look the …

Parsnips are like the redheaded stepchild of a blended family.  A root vegetable whose family members include the ever-so-popular carrots, celery, fennel and parsley, parsnips seem to be lost in the wide world of vegetables, despite their amazing potential, versatility, and taste. Why are parsnips looked over? Are they not used enough among the masses for consumers to go out on a limb to try them? Is it because they look like carrots, but different, so people get confused? Are consumers just "parsnipety"? Okay, all jokes aside, the truth is parsnips are hearty, healthy, and are extremely …

So often, meat is brought home from the store, removed from the package, cleaned, thrown in a pan and cooked. If it's lucky, the meat will get seasoned with a little salt and pepper and taste a little better than cardboard.  But, overcooked meat doesn't need to occur after today. Why? Two words. Brine and Thermometer. You may have heard of brining, but have you ever utilized its brilliance? The process of soaking meat in a salty liquid as part of the preparation allows meat to absorb and retain that moisture during the cooking. Brining is ideal for mild flavored meats with have low …

November and December holidays have passed, and the new year is knocking at the door. With that rat-a-tat tap comes celebration. Celebratory parties vary in styles and locations as much the individuals who attend them. No matter what type of party, it is important to the host(s) to enjoy the evening along with your guests. To do so, there are some items to keep in mind during the planning. Simplicity goes a long way, as well as a welcoming ambience. Both can be effortless to achieve, regardless of whether the gathering is casual or formal. Cozy candlelight, lovely festive foliage or fruits, …

It is exciting to be part of Northeast Cobb Patch, and I thank you for including me as part of your community. I love all things food and have enjoyed developing my skills and knowledge over the years in my home, in commercial kitchens in and around the Atlanta area, and while participating in classes and programs at local schools. While I enjoy creating savory dishes that warm the heart and stomach, baking and pastry are where I am drawn. Nevertheless, it is my goal to bring a variety of mouth-watering recipes to the Patch each week that will prompt you to step in the kitchen. Whether a …