There's a new way to get your daily dose of veggies: veggie noodles. While there's nothing wrong with a whole grain noodle or pasta (certainly packs more nutrition than regular enriched), veggie noodles can offer a variety of nutrients with less calories. So grab your julienne peeler, vegetable...

It's dad's turn to celebrate the joys of fatherhood. And what better way to thank him for all the whisker rubbing hugs and hours spent teaching us how to ride a bike, than with food? But not just any food: Dad food. Dad food is quite simply food that your dad loves. For many dads, that includes "...

During spring, asparagus is everywhere!  You may notice it is on sale at the grocery store, or it may even be popping up in your own garden at home. Asparagus is a spring crop that is easy to grow and very cheap in the spring, which may leave you with a surplus of the vegetable in your...

When the weather is warm and beautiful, there is nothing better than eating outdoors. Whether at a park, an outdoor event, or just in the backyard, a picnic can be a fun excursion for the whole family. There's no need for a picnic table; a blanket on the ground will do. You can use paper plates or...

I'm pleased to introduce guest blogger, Noel Konken, Illinois State University Dietetic intern! Memorial Day Weekend jump starts the season of cookouts, potlucks, and picnics. While these social gatherings are a classic American summer tradition, they are not always conducive to healthy...

I am pleased to introduce guest blogger and Illinois State University dietetic intern, Noel Konken! Tired of your average cold sandwich with a smashed banana that barely survived your early-morning commute? Swap out your packed lunch for a capped lunch! Get creative with your lunch this...

Have you ever wondered if there is a difference between noodles and pasta? Noodles are different than dry pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, because noodles contain eggs or egg yolks while other pasta does not. As a matter of fact, the FDA rules that a noodle, except chow mein noodles, must...

Cinco de Mayo (fifth of May) is a celebration to commemorate Mexico's victory over the French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. So why is it celebrated in America? Much like Americans love to celebrate Irish culture for St. Patrick's Day, Cinco de Mayo is an opportunity for us to gorge...

What was the first meal you ever learned to cook by yourself? Did it happen to be two slices of buttered bread with a slab of American cheese in between and toasted over a hot skillet? A grilled cheese sandwich is simple to make and scores high on a child's menu, but it's so gooey and comforting...

If you're an enthusiastic cook, you probably don't even think twice when preparing a recipe that has twenty different ingredients and numerous steps. However, if you're not as comfortable in the kitchen, a large recipe like that may be very intimidating. Recipes with shorter lists of ingredients do...