An overhead shot of a plate of asparagus sprinkled with pine nuts and parmesan and a lemon wedge on the side of the plate.

It is almost time to make the most of spring vegetables

Fresh garden vegetables are a real treat after the long winter of last season’s root vegetables, winter squash and preserved foods. As much as we crave simply steaming and slathering on the butter or tossing with a dressing, we are always on the lookout for new ideas. Dark green salad greens, kale and spinach are […] Read more

Close-up photo of a piece of Greek pastitsio sitting on a plate with garnish.

Bake one for the freezer and be prepared for a busy day

Save time in the kitchen by making large batches of your favourite dishes that freeze well. Many comfort foods such as soups, stews and casseroles taste even better the second day. These recipes can easily be doubled so one can go in the freezer for a future meal when time is limited. Sour cream Noodle […] Read more


Biscuits are so delicious when they are fresh out of the oven. This could be made as a platter for everyone to make their own ham biscuit sandwich.  |  Sarah Galvin photo

Easter entertaining made easier with plenty of planning

Entertaining with family and friends is easier if you follow these simple guidelines. First, make a plan including the menu and a time schedule. Choose serving dishes and place them on the buffet table if that helps to visualize the food. Second, decide what can be made ahead of time. Many bread and bun doughs […] Read more

Cioppino is a great way to use shellfish. The broth can be made the day before and refrigerated. Like soup, the flavour will develop more depth in time. It can also be frozen before adding the shellfish and fish and used later.  |  Sarah Galvin photo

Shellfish is rich in micronutrients and omega-3 fatty acids

Shellfish are often overlooked for nutritional value. They are an excellent source of lean protein and most of the dietary fat found in shellfish are heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Shellfish are also rich in the micronutrients vitamin B12, selenium, iron and magnesium, which are extremely important for the proper functioning of your body, offering […] Read more


Pulled pork on a bun with coleslaw is a great casual meal. Serve with a side of fries or onion rings.   |  Sarah Galvin photo

Braising brings out the best in less-tender cuts of meat

Braising food combines lightly frying or sautéing (dry heat method) with a cooking liquid and the lid on (moist heat method). Browning the food adds flavour and the moist heat with a long cooking time tenderizes. This is a perfect way to use the less tender cuts of meat for rich flavour and tenderness in […] Read more

Falafels are a great way to use chickpeas. Fry them by closely monitoring the oil temperature with a thermometer. Remove them from the hot oil with a slotted spoon. Have baking soda handy to put out the flames in case of an accidental fire.  |  Sarah Galvin photo

Prairie-grown chickpeas are a nutritional powerhouse

Chickpeas, also called garbanzo beans, are a powerhouse of nutrition. They contain so many essential nutrients that adding them to your daily diet will surely be beneficial. They are an excellent source of potassium, iron, vitamin B6, magnesium and calcium. By combining with nuts or seeds, they are a complete protein, which means all the […] Read more

Whoopie pies are a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch comfort food. Few ingredients are needed. Usually they are round but for Valentine’s Day a heart is novel.  |  Sarah Galvin photo

Making a pie is a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day

Young and old alike enjoy a fun day like Valentine’s Day to spread a little positive energy. Baking always takes my mind off daily stresses, and sharing the baking love is always welcomed by friends. Children and teens can successfully make any of these recipes. There is a sense of pride in sharing hand-made gifts. […] Read more


Maple Dijon dressing is very versatile and can be used with a number of vegetables and meats.  |  Sarah Galvin photo

February in season

Apples, garlic, cabbage, potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, beets and onions are some of the fresh foods in season this month. Greenhouse vegetables including tomatoes, peppers, lettuce and cucumbers are available year round. If you expand this list to include imported produce, then all the citrus fruits are in season. Cauliflower, broccoli, leeks, fennel and bok […] Read more

Following a few rules can help shoppers keep their food bill under control during this time of surging food inflation.  |  Sarah Galvin photo

Reducing grocery bill has never been more important

Reducing the money you spend on groceries is top of mind these days. Not since the 1980s have we experienced such a surge in food inflation. There has been a dramatic increase in the price of cooking oils. Potatoes and sweet potatoes have held their own. Pasta, flour and cereal are up. Berries and fruits […] Read more