Cooking

Between food, alcohol and winter activities... you're good to go this Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day is quickly approaching and if you're still trying to figure out plans, here's a guide to help you get started. It doesn't matter if you're single, in a relationship or just looking for something different to do, a lot of places around Grand Rapids have something for everyone...

Michigan fared pretty well on season 16 of Fox's cooking competition, "Hell's Kitchen". Last night, February 2nd, Traverse City sous chef Kimberly Ann Ryan won $250,000, and the head chef job Yardbird Southern Table & Bar at the Venetian in Las Vegas!

By Laurenda Marie Bennett Photos do not always do soup justice, particularly this one.

By Laurenda Marie Bennett I know I’m not the only one that becomes absolutely pumpkin obsessed around the holidays. Am I right? There is just something about the season that makes me want to consume pumpkin in every single form.

How about a simple shrimp alfredo recipe that almost everyone will love? The decadently creamy Knorr Pasta Sides Alfredo becomes a delicious meal for four when you add juicy shrimp, plump cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach.

By Laurenda Marie Bennett It’s very likely I ate more watermelon making this watermelon bluerry mint salad than what actually ended up in it. Plus, it's blueberry season in Michigan!

It's summertime and that means grilling season. The Ad Council and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service has a new online tool through the Food Safe Families campaign to raise awareness about proper grilling techniques and the dangers of food poisoning risks.

By Laurenda Marie Bennett Pancake Sunday was a tradition in my family. I looked forward to those mornings when my mother poured her homemade buckwheat batter onto a warm griddle. Yummmm. I haven’t met a pancake I didn’t like, but over the years I’ve come to find my favorite. So, what are my favorite pancakes, you ask? They are fluffy, chocolatey, whole wheat Almond Joy Pancakes, with plenty of ch

By Laurenda Marie Bennett Brussels sprouts, carrots, parmesan and toasted walnuts plus a yummy lemony garlic dressing equals a simple and refreshing salad. It’s bright, flavorful and perfect for spring and summer.

By Laurenda Marie Bennett I cannot get enough of fresh berries in the warmer months. Cherries. Strawberries. Raspberries. Blueberries. Blackberries. Oh, and smoothies. I can’t get enough of those either! They are breakfast made easy. Or have one as a mid-day snack. Or enjoy one as a post-workout replenisher. Or try one as a dessert!

By Laurenda Marie Bennett Spring has finally sprung! While everyone is spring cleaning and de-cluttering their homes, I think it’s just as important to cleanse our bodies. They sure deserve it, don’t they? Especially after such a long winter of hibernation and comfort foods. Fresh salads, like this Apple, White Cheddar & Chicken Salad with homemade Honey Mustard Dressing, are the perfect way t