TIP OF THE DAY: Tomato Substitutes

[1] Luscious, aren’t they! But what do you do during the long span of months when vine-ripened tomatoes are out of season (photo © Baldor Specialty Food). [2] Cherry tomatoes: Not the same thing, but a fair substitute (photo © Casa Barilla). [3] Sundried tomatoes should look like this: bright red and moist. If you…
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Enjoy Cheese More By Pairing Cheeses With Sweet Condiments

We recently dined at a wonderfully creative new restaurant in New York City, Frevo. A cheese course is typically served before dessert, or instead of it. Quite a few connoisseurs prefer to end dinner with cheese instead of something sweet. Our cheese course consisted of Comte cheese, shaved into pappardelle-size ribbons (fettuccine size works, too),…
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Low-Calorie Cucumber Salad Recipes & Food Pairings

Updated July 2026 One dish that has almost dropped from sight is marinated cucumber salad. Why? It’s flavorful, low-calorie, refreshing-hydrating (they’re 96% water), and full of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s a great side with just about any sandwich, pairs beautifully with grilled fish and chicken, and is side-salad-worthy year-round (see food pairings below).…
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