Ideas & Tips

The use of salt and pepper as America's quintessential condiment combination has been so deeply ingrained in our culture that one rarely ever stops to wonder how that came to be. Even in Europe, the two seasonings are inseparable. Surprisingly, the story of salt and pepper goes back centuries. Pepper has been used since before the common era, serving as both a condiment and medicinal property in Ancient Rome. Though long pepper originally stood as most popular during the Roman era for a great while, the pepper we've come to know usurped its status by not only being more affordable but also...

As the seasons change, so does what we want out of a beer. Gone are the days of light, crisp lagers and wheaty hefeweizens — it's time for dark, heavy brews with seasonal ingredients and spices, perfect for drinking while warming your feet by the fireplace. Known as winter warmers, these beers have what it takes to stand up to the cold weather, namely, strong dark flavors and alcohol levels that are sure to keep you warm: Samuel Adams Old Fezziwig Ale, 5.9% ABV, Boston, MA: Named for the generous and hospitable business owner in A Christmas Carol, this beer is chock full of...

If you're like many Americans, chances are you're already starting to feel the first tremors of what will become the earthquake of holiday-season stress. With all the obligations, expenses and logistical struggles of the holiday season, it's no wonder that many people turn to alcohol to escape from all the pressure. However, if you want some healthier options that won't leave you hung over and vaguely ashamed the next day, try sipping some of these naturally relaxing beverages throughout the day: Cherry juice: This lip-puckeringly tart drink has been shown to increase the duration and quality of sleep, helping you rebuild your...

You've only just walked in the door at the annual family holiday gathering, and already two aunts and a grandma have flocked around you to offer cookies, cakes and snacks. So it begins. Eating sensibly during the holiday can feel like an uphill battle, with factors from the cold weather to pushy relatives threatening the hard-earned integrity of your waistline. According to the National Institutes of Health, the average American gains one to two pounds every year during the holidays, which may not seem like a lot on its own but can add up over a lifetime. Keep these tips...

Sometimes the drive home from a party is dominated by conversations about various aspects of the event. What was the best outfit? Who was the funniest? How was the music? But when the topic of food comes up, you'll want to be confident that the people leaving your home event have nothing but nice things to say. The main course is typically the major event of a dinner party, but the forthcoming appetizers are what pave the road for it. Make sure the journey is a smooth one for your guests with these winning recipes: Chicken Satay Skewers: This Martha Stewart go-to...