olive oil

I grew up absolutely loving the super sugary, tomato-based condiment that is ketchup. Now, I’m still infatuated with it. However, I don’t buy overly sweetened ketchup anymore; I only eat ketchup that I’ve made myself. Making ketchup from scratch is cheap, ridiculously easy, healthier, and oh so delicious. I’m even comfortable with claiming that homemade ketchup is just as good as the bottled stuff, if not better (assuming that’s a possibility).

“Put on a hat–you’ll catch a cold!” and “Turkey makes you sleepy” are just some of the old wives’ tales you’ve likely heard growing up. Or, perhaps you had a mother or father who was particularly insistent upon herbal remedies like consuming raw garlic for colds and flus. While some old wives’ tales are just that–tales–we’ve gathered the ones that seem to have actual merit and thus a place in your kitchen, too.

Considering its proximity to Mexico, it makes sense for California to have some of the best, most authentic Mexican food around. I can say that with confidence because I’ve actually eaten Mexican food in Mexico on numerous occasions, since I have family members from there. I’m a Northern California girl, but I must admit that some of the Mexican food in Southern California is better than what I’ve come across up north.

Chili oil is great on everything. Pizzas, noodles, soups, eggs, and even for dipping bread, chili oil elevates the flavor of any meal. There is just something about the kick from the chili flakes along with the smooth, fatty mouthful of olive oil that is the perfect accompaniment.

As a gluten-free vegan, let’s just say eating out can pose quite the challenge. So, in order to spare restaurant employees from all of my chaotic food questions, I’ve learned to love (and actually prefer) cooking meals at home. Preparing your own meals is a superb way to fine-tune your cooking skills, save money, and eat properly sized, more nutritious portions, while consuming less calories, sodium, fat, and sugar.

If you haven’t heard of quinoa, the superfood, by now, it’s time to get out from underneath that rock. For those of you who are still unsure of how to say it (let alone spell it), it’s pronounced “keen-wah.”

I am a predictable eater, especially when I know what I love to eat. Beets are one vegetable for which I will always reach, and so I find ways to incorporate them into classics…like this bright and beautiful beet ginger hummus, pulsing with warming, slightly spicy flavors I love. This recipe is awesome not just for the flavor, but because it brings some real vibrant color into the kitchen during the winter season. It reminds me of the strong magenta of a peony or a really rich summer fruit, and the ginger in it warms like the feeling of summer sunlight. It’s delightful!

The first time I had a roasted chickpea was a game changer. A salad of delicate mixed greens drizzled with balsamic dressing was topped with none other than roasted chickpeas. Ever since that salad, I can't stop eating them.

Working with our hands can take its toll. Especially in the colder months, our hands become prone to dryness that causes cracking, itching, and even bleeding. Finding the right lotion can be rough. It feels as though you have to apply hand cream every hour for it to work. In that case, a home remedy is in order. Before you apply your hand cream, try one of these home remedies for the optimum effect.

Coconut Oil

As the cold front begins to roll in, comforting food makes its way to the table. And nothing says comfort food like tomato soup. This is my favorite soup, and quite possibly my favorite recipe. While most creamy tomato soups rely heavily on dairy, I find that you can achieve the same effect based on how you prepare the soup, not just the ingredients you use.