Cook Away for the Holiday!

Did you cook and cook over the Thanksgiving holiday? I went into Publix today and saw a display of stuffing, gravy, etc., and thought...Didn't I just do this? No matter, I love to switch it up for the holidays. I know a lot of "experts" tell you NOT to try something new when you have a holiday meal and guests. But to me, what better time! You don't have 100% certainty that things will come out exactly as planned even if it is your favorite recipe. Oddly, I find that I pay more attention when I'm trying a new recipe than when I think I know what I'm doing.

Speaking of new recipes...our new issue should be on stands tomorrow and we have a couple of different things for you to try. One item for informal gatherings, and another for a bit of a feast. Give them a try. I always provide you with recipes that aren't heavy on tracking through the truffle region of Tuscany, or finding some strange item named by Martha Stewart. Nothing against Martha, isn't it easier to have a staple of simple ingredients that always make a great meal?

If you're new to cooking, learn from cooking magazines like Cooking Light. Start with ingredients you already know about and/or have in your cupboards, then graduate to trying a new spice or herb. It may sound a bit high brow, but I learned how to cook from Bon Appetit. Yes, they do have some involved recipes that deliver amazing results, but they also have 30 Minute Meals that do just the same.

So if you're tired of turkey and ham, try Italian, go with a roast, or be bold and do a duck (something I've yet to concur). If the ingredients in the recipe sound tantalizing to you...you've got yourself a winner.

Have the best family times this holiday season...and pick up our new issue!!
Rose