Flowers have been used in culinary applications for centuries. They can be put in nearly any food or beverage, used as garnishes and can be candied or added to sugar for a delicate, naturally sweet touch. Flowers that are truly edible must not be treated with any preservatives or pesticides, and be certain they are actually consumable and not poisonous. Edible flowers can normally be found at specialty stores, bakeries or gourmet food shops. Typically the flowers found from florists are not of a consumable nature. You can also try growing your own culinary flower garden. Cut flowers will last… read more

Not a fan of high-fructose corn syrup or artificial ingredients? Then you probably know it can sometimes be a challenge to find frozen treats that aren’t full of them. For homemade popsicles with ultimate ingredient control, indulge your need for gourmet frozen novelties with these unique and nutritious spins on an old favorite. Let antioxidant packed fresh summer fruits have some fun. Making homemade popsicles can be as simple as pureeing some fresh finds and freezing them, like this watermelon and whole fruit pop. Martha Stewart has several good for you versions of popsicle recipes. Simple yet delicious, the fruit salad ice… read more

Summer has reached its peak and the global smog has yet to simmer down. By cooling your palette you can alleviate the stresses of heat elsewhere. This brings us to our main topic:  Popsicles. Though staples of childhood and summer, they’re great year round at any age. And they’re easy to make yourself. I like to make Popsicles using fruit flavored tea. It tastes like normal Popsicles but lacks the high sugar content and is lower in calories.  To do this, pick out a tea of your liking.  Most fruit teas are herbal and thus, caffeine free. You can find… read more