Food & Drink – user's Blog!

March 6, 2018

Cut Your Meal-Prep Time in Half With These 5 Tools

If you’re trying to live a healthier lifestyle, meal prepping will help you reach your goal. But, if you’re not careful, the process can take up half of your Sunday. These tools help me go from cutting board to completed meals in less than two hours, and they can help you too. Plus, if you pick them up through Ebates, you’ll be earning Cash Back while shopping for all the best products.

One Pot to Rule Them All

My Lodge enamel dutch oven is one of the best investments I’ve made in the meal prep arena. It’s huge, so I can fit enough ingredients in it to make enough food for half the week, and it’s easy to clean. Plus, since I’m only using one pot, I save a lot of time cleaning up. If you’re in need of an easy meal prep idea, try sweet potato and turkey hash. I use a couple packages of ground turkey, four or five medium sweet potatoes, garlic, onion, poblano peppers, jalapeños and whatever spices I’m into at the moment.

Lodge EC6D43 Color Enamel Dutch Oven, Red, 6 Quart
from Overstock

Garlic Game-Changer

I love garlic, but I hate peeling it. This little piece of silicone changed my garlic game forever. It’ll do the same for you. Simply toss in a clove or two and roll it back and forth with your hand on a flat surface like your cutting board. The papery skin will fall right off. It helps me peel garlic in literally half the time. And my hands don’t reek for the rest of the day.

Scroll Garlic Peeler
from GILT

Lettuce On the Fly

A lettuce spinner is one of the kitchen tools you never knew you needed until you own one. No more waiting for lettuce to dry between stacks of paper towels or attempting to shake off the water. A few presses on the pump and you’ve got dry greens. It even has a built-in brake so you don’t have to wait for the internal basket to stop spinning.

OXO
Salad Spinner 4.0
from Macy’s

Instant Food Gratification

I can’t write about meal prep tools without mentioning the legendary Instant Pot. It really is worth the hype — even if you only use it for one function. I typically use it to make foods that would normally take upwards of an hour to cook, like rice or beans. They’re always done in half the time without losing any flavor or moisture.

Instant Pot Ultra
from Sur La Table

A Full Week of Meals in a Snap

I love these meal prep containers because they’re just big enough to hold a decent-size serving and stack really well in the fridge. I’ll set them all out on the kitchen table while I cook and portion my food in as I go. That allows me to offload each batch of finished food and clean up while I’m waiting for other things in the oven or on the stove. It’s time management at its finest, and these containers help me get the job done.

Snapware Airtight Plastic 4.5-Cup Rectangle Food Storage Container
from Jet.com

January 11, 2018

5 Healthy-Eating Trends Still Going Strong in 2018

If you missed the boat on these healthy-eating habits popular in 2017, there’s still time. Your healthy New Year’s resolutions aren’t likely to stick unless you’re making changes to the way you look at nutrition. These trends are not get-fit-quick schemes, but they may give you the lasting change you’re looking for.

Real Food

The one constant of diet trends in the past several years is eating “real” food. A mountain of research has been dedicated to cutting out processed conveniences — especially sugar. Although there’s plenty of disagreement on proteins, fats and grains, many people on diets that focus on whole foods and eating less sugar — from the DASH Diet to Whole30 — report feeling better and looking fitter. This Whole30–compliant breakfast bowl features cauliflower rice, organic protein and fresh herbs.

Whole30 Cookbook
from Barnes & Noble

Fermentation

Fermented food got a huge upvote in 2017, with many people putting kimchi in their grocery carts. Different fermented foods provide different benefits, such as aiding digestion and promoting weight loss. Probiotics lurk in more than sauerkraut, and you can even spoil, er, ferment your own milk. Making fermented food requires little more than some research, a few jars and time.

Kilner Fermentation Set
from Gardener’s Supply Company

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Mushrooms

Everyone’s still talking about mushrooms as mood- and energy-boosters. Although it might be difficult to find reishi mushrooms in your local store, try putting them in your coffee if you do.

Chaga Mushroom Coffee with Cordyceps Drink Mix
from Vitamin Shoppe

Meal Prep

Meal prepping can be done in combination with all diet plans: vegan, Mediterranean, Paleo or whatever best suits your interests. (Yes, I’ve seen fast food bundled up in meal-prep containers, thanks to the Internet). What’s nice about meal prepping is that you make your decisions ahead of time, the containers help with portion control and it saves you time when you’re busiest. If you like the idea of prepped meals but don’t have time to cook them, healthy food subscription services are becoming increasingly popular and are delivered right to your door.

Jaxx Fitpak Meal Prep Start Kit
from GNC

Fasting

If you listen to any fitness podcast, you have likely heard mention of intermittent fasting. There are several types, and a fasting cycle has been shown to reduce inflammation and help regulate blood sugar. Intermittent fasting proponents say it can be combined with healthy eating for the greatest benefits.

December 12, 2017

Eating Right While Eating Well During the Holidays

Keeping a healthy diet is hard enough without all the extra temptation around the holidays, but you don’t need to give up on healthy eating just because you know you’ll be surrounded by cookies at every turn. Accept failures, but also make a plan to choose your food wisely. Give yourself some allowances while following a few simple suggestions to stay motivated. Eating right and eating well don’t have to be at odds.

Juice Up with Java

You may have heard about the recent studies on the health benefits of coffee. I’m not talking about sugary coffee-flavored drinks, but real brewed coffee. In addition to the obvious energy boost, there is a slew of studies showing links between coffee drinking and lowered risk of chronic diseases, such as liver cancer. For your holiday-themed balanced diet, coffee will dull your hunger pangs for long enough to get your thinking straight. A little stevia and full-fat cream can help satisfy your craving too.

AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker
from Crate & Barrel

Try Something New

Holiday parties and get-togethers often require you to bring a dish to share. Even if there are some foods you’re staying away from, you can bring an item you’ll enjoy without worry. Pull out a special, new recipe you’ve been wanting to try. That extra effort will give you something to look forward to.

Neoflam Mystic Valley Ceramic Stovetop Casserole
from Bed Bath & Beyond

Allow for Indulgences

Eating and gatherings go hand in hand, and I find it awkward to continue my diet plans when it comes to social situations. Don’t plan for strict eating, and enjoy the time. Feeling guilty leads to a downward spiral of, “I’ll just start over in January.” You can be your own worst enemy! When I’m following my normal routines at work and home, I focus on staying on track and eating healthy, and I adjust my expectations when I’m having fun with friends.

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Dessert (Plate) First

A full plate has been scientifically proven to give you the feeling of satisfaction, so pick up a dessert plate from the stack and fill it with your main course. Dessert plates are usually smaller, so this will help keep your portions reasonable even if you go back for seconds.

Gold Sparkle Christmas Paper Dessert Plates
from Michael’s

Powerful Snacking

Willpower isn’t a finite commodity. You’re bound to deplete your conviction to eat right if you’re keeping yourself hungry at the wrong times. Expect to be hungry! I bring healthy food to the office to snack on at meetings to give me a little extra willpower. I try to go for high-protein and satisfying snacks: jerky, boiled eggs and salt, slices of gouda with a few cashews or almond butter and celery. That helps me keep my eyes off the plate of donuts on the table.

Multicolored 1-Cup Portion Control Containers with Ice Packs
from Fit & Fresh

Be a Choosy Eater

When there’s a food table with all the trimmings, do yourself a favor and take a spin around the block. Take a look at all the offerings, eyeing the good stuff, and choose your favorites. You don’t have to eat everything, and you can skip it for now if it’s something you know you’ll have the chance to eat again. If you’re going to veer off the path for a bit, you’ll want it to be for something special.

December 6, 2017

10 Festive Finds to Spruce Up Your Holiday Table

’Tis the season to be cooking and cleaning and serving and entertaining. The holidays are here, and that means lots of guests soon will be sitting around your table, chatting and laughing and eating and enjoying good food, great wine and even better company. Deck the halls and deck out your dining room with lots of fabulous holiday decorations, Christmas centerpieces and other merry tabletop must-haves. We rounded up a few festive pieces for your perusing pleasure. Happy hosting!

Snowman Mugs

Serve coffee and cocoa in these charming snowman mugs — and don’t forget to leave some cookies and milk for Santa too!

Snowman Mugs

from Sur la Table

Holiday Bulb Tree

Not everyone is Martha Stewart. DIY holiday centerpieces may sound like a good idea, but they’re usually not easy to recreate. Luckily for you, this cheery decoration will liven up your table and brighten spirits.

Holiday Bulb Tree

from Sur la Table

Maker’s Table Runner

This beautiful felt table liner can be dressed up or down, and it makes the perfect base for fancy (or casual!) flatware.

Maker’s Table Runner

from JoAnn Fabrics

Holiday Village Place Mats

This cotton Kate Spade holiday village place mat is cute and totally endearing. Kids and grown-ups alike will love them.

Holiday Village Place Mats
from Bloomingdale’s
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Christmas Appetizer Plates

Featuring jolly and iconic seasonal scenes, these appetizer plates are perfectly playful for all your casual Christmas get-togethers.

Christmas Appetizer Plates

from Pier 1 Imports

Santa Platter

Santa deserves a prominent place at — or, rather, on — the holiday table. This sculpted platter is a wonderful way to serve light bites and sides.

Santa Platter

from Staples

Buffalo-Check Stocking Utensil Holder

Put out your personalized seating cards and place utensils in these adorable buffalo-check mini stockings. How cute is that?

Buffalo-Check Stocking Utensil Holder
from Bed Bath & Beyond

Holiday Wine Labels

These wine-bottle labels are kitschy and silly and totally fun for family gatherings and casual holiday affairs. Cheers!

Holiday Wine Labels

from Michael’s

Berries and Pine Napkin Rings

These beautiful napkin rings bring winter nature to your table and add a festive flair to your everyday linens.

Berries and Pine Napkin Rings

from Sur la Table

June 30, 2017

Fire It Up for the Fourth: Everything You Need for a Perfect Grill Day

Grilling truly is an artform. And, like any artist, you’re going to need some tools to get the job done. While everyone else is focused on the festivities, you’ll be crafting a masterpiece of a meal. Use these tools and tips to deliver a Fourth of July meal to remember. They’ll help you stay in the game and save a little dough by earning Cash Back at Ebates while shopping for all the best products.

Get the Party Started

If you have a charcoal grill and have never used a charcoal chimney, it’ll change everything you know about grilling. The simple and time-tested design creates airflow around the briquettes to help them get up to temperature. The best part? You can leave the lighter fluid on the shelf. All you need is an old newspaper to get things going. No more lighter-fluid-flavored food for you.

Bring On the Meats

If you’re going to go through the trouble of prepping your backyard for a grill day, you’d better have the right ingredients. Few things are more important than your meat selection. Sure, you could go fight in line at the local butcher with everyone else, or you could do all your shopping with a single click. Omaha Steaks is a trusted choice by many a grill-master thanks to its reputation for quality cuts. Take your pick from the many packages or build your own menu. I’d go for the premier selection.

Give Yourself Some Breathing Room

You have the fancy four-burner grill with all the bells and whistles, but there comes a time in every grill-master’s career when he or she just needs a little more room to practice the craft. A crowded grill isn’t the end of the world, but it’ll take a lot longer to cook your food and you’ll have hangry party guests to attend to. Say hello to the Blackstone griddle cooking station, a versatile cooktop built for odds and ends like veggies, rice and anything else you can grill up.

Deal With Difficult Delectables

When I graduated from tinfoil to a grill basket like this one from Broil King, I never looked back. This simple tool is perfect for anything that might fall through the grates while you flip, pick at and prod the contents of your grill. It’s especially good for chopped onions, peppers and mushrooms.

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Chill Out, Man

When you’re tending to the smoky throne, the last thing you want to do is go for an ice run. Spoiler alert: Neither do your guests. Make it easy on everyone and invest in a Yeti Tundra. This tank of a cooler will last you the rest of your life, and it keeps ice cold and intact for days.

Put Away the Knife and Pick Up a Thermometer

You’re going to work hard on this feast, so don’t blow it by slicing into the meat to check the temperature or taking it off the grill too soon. Upgrade to a digital thermometer with a sensor probe. The key is keeping the juices inside the meat where they belong, and this gadget will help you do just that because it’s fairly non-invasive. Plus, it’s wireless, so you can get a readout up to 300 feet away—perfect for that detour to the cooler or a trip inside to prep the rest of your meal.

May 24, 2017

How to Throw a Summer Soiree

With Memorial Day weekend on the horizon, we’re stepping into full swing for summer parties. From backyard barbecues to intimate al fresco dinners, your summertime soirees truly are what shape the season. Create magical memories that your guests will forever cherish by keeping these five party-planning tips in mind.

1. Keep Invitations Specific

Spread the word and set the scene by sending out clear yet fun instructions so guests know exactly what to expect. Are you hosting a potluck? Will guests be nibbling throughout the evening or is there a set mealtime? Make sure to specify so latecomers won’t be disappointed. It’s also wise to announce the dress code. Get inspired for outdoor menus with this Cadac Stratos gas grill ($280).

2. Make Sure Everyone Has a Seat

Guests will want to relax and unwind. Make sure there’s enough seating for everyone, especially if you’re hosting an outdoor soiree. Feel free to get creative with things — use Moroccan poufs, set up blankets for guests to lounge on picnic-style or use small stools. Give guests a cozy place to sit with this Crate + Barrel outdoor pouf ($199).

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3. Beware Mosquitos

Bugs are a huge bummer. Before the party, get rid of standing water — dump out the kiddie pool, empty out rain water in flower pots and clean out the gutters. Set up some fans or offer guests natural bug repellants. Set the mood and keep bugs away with this citronella candle ($25).

4. Set the Mood with Music

Keep your playlists soft and chill. No one will want to shout over blaring music or listen to anything that distracts heavily from a good conversation. Create a playlist that’s heavy on classics, with an emphasis on the upbeat. Aim for five hours of music. Get the party started with the Samsung Level Box Mini ($30).

5. Keep Kids Entertained

If you’re throwing a party that includes kids, make sure they have some diversions. Ideas: a Slip ‘N Slide, blowing bubbles, a sprinkler or even disposable cameras so they can run around and capture the scene. Kids will appreciate this zany Banzai Geyser Blast Sprinkler ($14).

May 3, 2017

Cinco de Mayo Party Essentials to Throw the Fiercest Fiesta

Warm weather, icy margaritas and a table topped with Mexican fare — Cinco de Mayo celebrations leave us with lots to be excited about. This year, use your Ebates Cash Back to step up your decorating game. You may have perfected your guacamole recipe, but these festive and fun party essentials will truly make your fete one for the books. Below, six colorful must-haves for your Cinco de Mayo fiesta.

Rio Tortilla Warmer

The nation is abuzz with unicorn lattes and mermaid-inspired makeup, so doesn’t it make sense to want a groovy little rainbow dish just because? This terra cotta tortilla warmer does its job with a table-pleasing burst of color.

Le Creuset Signature Palm Skillet

You spend hours obsessing over the details that will wow your guests, but what about investing in something just to please the chef? The punchy lime detailing on this perfectly sized skillet will make you smile as your veggies sizzle.

Luminarc Margarita Glass Set

Your recipe must wow, and your stemware should be simple and sized just right. Graduate from your kitschy spring-break souvenirs to these chic sippers. Rim with salt and garnish with lime, and you’re good to go.

Hay Kaleidoscope Trays

Cinco de Mayo is all about embracing bold hues that make even the simplest dishes — guacamole and cut-up veggies — come to life. These jewel-toned trays offer endless display possibilities, and they’re sure to get guests in a celebratory spirit.

Taco Rack

Organizing tacos can be a challenging feat. Keep your tacos’ insides where they belong and encourage sharing with this simple yet super effective taco rack. It holds everything in place and adds a cool, clean look to the table.

Molcajete

Freshly made guac is one of the best parts of dining at a Mexican restaurant. This authentic grinder, crafted from natural volcanic stone, brings the party home. Blend spices and herbs, or mix up mole and salsas.

January 19, 2017

You’ve Graduated From Two-Buck Chuck. Now What?

Congratulations! The days of stocking your cart with cheapo wine are over, and you’re ready to take the next step in adulthood: learning how to pick wine. You’re no longer as worried about getting the most bang for your buck (well, two bucks); now you’re concerned with things like taste and value and choosing quality over quantity. It can be intimidating to face the world of wine, but you’re not in it alone. Here is a little wine for beginners guide to help you take the leap. Use these wine tips to select Two-Buck Chuck alternatives from Wine.com and Gold Medal Wine Club that won’t set you back much more, especially with that hard-earned Cash Back you’ll get at Ebates:

Instead of the Charles Shaw Cabernet Sauvignon:

The StoneCap Cabernet Sauvignon is a good transition to the wide world of red wine. It’s easy to drink but has plenty of maturity and robust flavors, and a bit more spice than the super-discount cab you’re tired of. You’ll mostly love that you won’t have to spend time at your next dinner party secretly pouring glasses in the kitchen to keep your friends from seeing the label.

Instead of the Charles Shaw Merlot:

The intensity of fruit in this Santa Ema Reserve Merlot is showcased best by its deep ruby color, which will mesmerize you even before you take your first sip. The spicy plum aroma (distinctly worth more than two bucks) will best complement your cheese course. Now all you have to do is figure out how to put together a killer cheese course.

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Instead of the Charles Shaw Chardonnay:

You’re going to want a soft Chardonnay after graduating from the harsh grassiness of Two-Buck Chuck. This Madroña 2013 Chardonnay has notes of white peach and honey, combining mellow and bright aromas for a nicely balanced white wine. It hails from El Dorado in the Sierra Foothills, which is a much more in-the-know response than, “Somewhere in California, I think.”

Instead of the Charles Shaw White Zinfandel:

Understanding that the grape is actually called Zinfandel, and not White Zinfandel, comes with time and maturity. Now that you’re there, you’re ready to put down the sugary pink stuff and pick up the real deal. Try this Four Vines Lodi Old Vine Zin to get some of the best of California’s rich and fruity treasure. Bring this bottle to your next barbecue to truly impress.

I know what you’re thinking: but regular Zinfandel isn’t pink! If you’re not too keen to give up the rosy hue that you love in the $2 version (but you’ve outgrown its sweetness), you’re probably ready for a true rosé from Provence. This Whispering Angel Rosé from Chateau d’Esclans is refreshing and bright with just enough tart fruit to turn you on to dry rosés — and may you never go back.

November 22, 2016

Gift Guide: Top 10 Foodie Gifts of 2016

Especially during the holidays, a foodie’s knowledge and passion can be intimidating, especially for friends and family struggling to think of perfect foodie gift ideas. But finding a great present for the food fanatic in your life ought to be a piece of cake. That’s why we’ve assembled this guide to the best gifts for foodies on your list. Give your favorite foodie friends a present that will delight them for years, and get Cash Back at Ebates while you’re at it!

Pork Butcher Cuts Cufflinks, $54.95 (Tanga)

Help a foodie wear his passion for meats on his sleeve with these classy cufflinks.

Urban Moonshine Organic Bitters, $36.54 (Vitacost)

Take her cocktail game to the next level with these high-quality, organic maple-flavored bitters.

Outset Cast Iron Oyster Grill Pan, $49.95 (HSN)

Add this distinctive new piece of kitchen hardware to his repertoire, and maybe he’ll even make you grilled oysters as a thank you.

Le Creuset French Press, $65 (Sur La Table)

A ceramic French press in a bright, cheerful color is a beautiful way to start the day.

Visol Misto Stainless Steel Double Walled Cup With Saucer, $24.49 (Overstock)

Stainless steel cups are the perfect present for anyone serious about perfecting hot beverages.

The Luxury Collection Epicurean Journeys Book, $50 (Saks Fifth Avenue)

Inspire a foodie to get out there and taste the world, with this feast for the senses.

Himalayan Salt Block & Holder Set, $49.90 (Crate and Barrel)

This salt block and holder will add flavor and up the cool factor for any foodie gathering.

Bethany Housewares Springerie Rolling Pin, $24.99 (Boston Store)

Create traditional European cookies with this gorgeous hardwood rolling pin.

Cathy’s Concepts Personalized Mason Jar Mixology Set, $72 (Boston Store)

Mason jars aren’t going away, and when you add a mixology set with a personalized engraved initial, you’ll have the perfect gift for your foodie friend.

Cute 6 Piece Boiled Egg Sushi Rice Mold, $6.79 (Light in the Box)

For the foodie with a sense of humor, this boiled-egg or sushi rice mold is ridiculously adorable. It might just be the cutest foodie gift of them all.

September 17, 2016

How to Throw an Epic End-of-Summer BBQ

Summer is almost a wrap and everyone is sad to see it go – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t throw it a goodbye party! As the last few days of summer will soon be here, now is the perfect time to throw an end of summer BBQ for your friends and family. Check out this simple list of BBQ tips and summer BBQ party ideas and get ready to get the gang together for one last summer shindig. As an added bonus, you’ll get Cash Back at Ebates with your purchase at any of the mentioned stores. Happy party planning!

1. Plan Your BBQ Menu Around Summer Favorites

Your final summer BBQ is a great time to feature everyone’s favorite summer BBQ food. Grilled shrimp, lobster, chicken and burgers are all premium choices. Make sure you don’t forget about those summer BBQ side dishes that you’ll miss the rest of the year, too! Veggie skewers, portobello burger bites, grilled corn, watermelon and a classic coleslaw will round out the meal. This is no time to skimp on your summer favorites! Throw a checkered tablecloth on those tables and live up the summer fun for one more day with a summer BBQ menu before fall officially arrives. Looking for fun summer BBQ ideas? Consider doing a BBQ sauce tasting! Cost Plus World Market has a great selection of sauces available online for your summer BBQ along with a ton of other great supplies to make your BBQ ideas come to life.

2. Consider the Temperature When Planning Your Party

Depending on your region, the end of the summer can mean cooler days and even cooler nights. Take your area’s climate into consideration and either plan to host your BBQ during the day or pick up some outdoor heaters from Walmart to keep your guests comfortable outdoors at night. Be sure to keep an eye out for an outdoor heater or lighting promo code as the summer comes to a close!

3. Prep Your Food Early and Offer Pitcher Perfect Drinks

Don’t miss out on your last party of the summer by spending the whole time cooking or mixing drinks – plan ahead! Make any food and drinks you can ahead of time to save your energy for the day of the party. You can make a big batch of your favorite summer drink ahead of time and put into it into a festive punch bowl from Crate and Barrel.

4. Live it up With Some Summer Fun

Don’t forget about the games when it comes time to throw your end of summer BBQ party! Make it a party people won’t forget until next summer rolls around with great summer games like bag toss, volleyball, badminton or other summer classics. Set up some games, like an awesome horseshoes set from Rakuten.com, and be sure to keep an eye out for an end of the season promo code.

5. Pack Away All Your Summer Stuff as You Pick Up

You can plan your party décor and activities around all the stuff that will need to be packed away at the end of the summer season. If the arrival of fall means the end of your outdoor party season, get your storage containers ready for the end of the party. You’ll tackle two tasks in one when you pack up your summer party supplies and tuck them away until next year. If you need storage bins, check out the amazing supply online at The Container Store and get everything you need to keep organized so you’ll be ready to launch the next epic bash next summer!