What basic ingredients would you suggest keeping around the house for a person who needs to cook quickly but doesn’t want to sacrifice taste? My basic pantry contains ingredients that can be mixed and matched in a snap: canned, fat-free chicken broth; canned vegetable broth; chunky salsa; Italian seasoning; 10-minute brown or white rice in [...]

Yes, organic food is better — and better for you. In addition, organic growing practices are better for the earth and the people who grow your food. If you suspect you are going to get less chemicals and more good food on your plate with organically grown fruits and vegetables, you’re absolutely right. But it [...]

I am a university student on a very limited budget. How can I reduce the fat in my meals without spending a fortune? That’s an easy answer: Learn to cook. You won’t have to pay restaurants or convenience food companies to cook for you. And you get a big bonus: You control the ingredients and [...]

I would like info on what to look for in buying cookware, and what brands of medium priced cookware you recommend. If you are a highly skilled cook or love to cook as a hobby, I recommend All-Clad, Calphalon or Le Creuset pots and pans. If you cook regularly and prefer no-fuss, family-style cooking, I [...]