25 Fantastic Holiday Gift Ideas from Star Chefs

Below, some of America’s greatest chefs tell what they love to give during the holidays, from homemade gifts like easy vanilla extract (at right) to a subscription to the best bacon of the month club.

“I like to give candied citrus peel: orange, lemon, lime, sometimes grapefruit, which we put in little jars to give to friends. Sometimes we dip the peels halfway in chocolate, sometimes we don’t.”—Jacques Pépin

Photo courtesy of Harbor Candy Shop.

“We’ve been sending our regular customers chocolates from The Harbor Candy Shop in Ogunquit, Maine for a while now. I found them walking around town before an event at Arrows Restaurant. I was blown away. They make everything themselves, and it’s all fantastic. Their peanut butter cups are my favorite: theirs have a thick layer of chocolate around real, fresh peanut butter.”—Marc Vetri, Vetri Restaurant

“Last year my Mom sent me the most incredible box of little Ziploc bags of all the candies and cookies she makes during the holidays. Attached to each bag was a tiny Post-it with a memory of where the recipe came from, whether from Grandma or when we were kids or something made by one of our friends’ mothers.”—Nancy Olson, Gramercy Tavern

“I’m Italian-American; my parents are both from the same small town in Sicily. My favorite holiday food, period, is panettone. I absolutely adore it. I did not like it as a child, but I grew to love it, and now I look forward to it come holiday season. Not only do I love eating it with Nutella or as French toast, it also makes a phenomenal bread pudding.”—Renato Poliafito, Baked

“Every year I’ll make a big batch of preserved lemons, put them in beautiful clear glass jars and give them to friends to enjoy throughout the year. People just flip out over them. Clean out the rind, slice it and put it into a salad and people will think you are a genius.”—Mourad Lahlou, Aziza

“Parmesan spread: A mixture of asiago, parmigiano-reggiano, scallion, a little bit of Calabrian chile or chile flakes, basil, parsley, garlic and olive oil. Simply dice up the cheese and scallion, throw it all in your food processor and grind it all up until it’s the size of BBs, and it makes a beautiful little spread. If you make a half-gallon of it on December 1, you’ll eat a quarter of it yourself, and with the rest, if you have a few little French canning jars like we sell at Napa Style, you can pack them up and it will last for a month in the fridge. Then instead of bringing an $80 bottle of wine, you can bring a $5 jar of something you made, that won’t give anyone a hangover. It’s an affordable way to spread holiday cheer.”—Michael Chiarello, Bottega

Photo courtesy of Akasha Restaurant.

“We make a lot of jams and chutneys at the restaurant. I like jam, but chutney’s more special and versatile—you can eat it with cheese, chicken, pork.”—Akasha Richmond, Akasha

“To give, I make a dried fruit compote almost like mince meat: a dice of dried apricot, prunes, currants, raisins, along with fresh diced apple or pear. I add white wine, orange juice, sugar, a touch of white vinegar and all those pumpkin pie seasonings—cinnamon, allspice, sometimes clove or nutmeg—then cook it for a long time. Then I put it in jars with a little ribbon.”—Tom Valenti, Ouest

“I like to give great olive oil, salt or honey. For olive oil, I love Agrumato lemon olive oil. I’m usually not a huge fan of flavored oils, but this company does it really well. It’s nice for finishing fish or vegetables and is not overly expensive.”—Jenn Louis, Lincoln Restaurant

“For spice mixes I do rubs, like mustard and coriander and pepper. I keep the packaging simple: I just put it in a bag and give a recipe.”—Floyd Cardoz, North End Grill

“For herb salt, I’ll pulverize dried garden herbs in a blender and toss them with a nice flake salt like Maldon. For citrus salt, I’ll take a bunch of random citrus fruits, run them on a Microplane to get a couple of tablespoons of zest, and stir that with a couple of drops of plain salad oil. Then I’ll wring it out in a piece of cheesecloth or a napkin and toss the citrus oil with salt, also usually a flake salt. To make about a cup of citrus salt, you probably want to start with the zest of 6 or 7 limes, lemons or oranges.”—Melissa Perello, Frances

“I like to give unusual honeys. I was brought up on roast chicken brushed with raw honey; you never cook with it, just brush some on the sliced poultry at the end. It’s good on squash, too, and roast turkey. Last year I gave out a beautiful honey from the Pitcairn Islands, which you can order online; it’s made by descendants of the mutiny of the Bounty.”—David McMillan, Joe Beef

“I usually make little terrines of foie gras for my friends. Terrines of any kind are perfect gifts for holidays, whether to bring to someone’s house who’s throwing a party, or to throw one yourself—just buy a terrine, some nice rustic bread, some pickles or cornichons, and some Champagne and you’re all set.”—Daniel Boulud, Daniel

“I love to give friends a single, fresh, black winter truffle from the Perigord. The French truffle company Plantin always has the best black winter Perigord truffles on the market.”—Fabio Trabocchi, Fiola

“I make fresh Vietnamese sausage to give to friends. I’m experimenting this year with pork and shrimp. Those are the two major proteins in Vietnam; a lot of people raise pork in rural areas, and shrimp were abundant. So I put them in casing with thyme and garlic, some salt and pepper.”—Eric Banh, Ba Bar

Photo courtesy of Zingerman’s.

“I’m a big fan of Zingerman’s bacon of the month club. They give you a completely different style artisan bacon every month—one month it could be smoked, one month it could just be cured, one month you could get jowl bacon, one month belly bacon, it’s a really nice variety. I’ve been subscribing to it for about 10 years. I first got it as a gift from my staff. And then I probably do it for 8 to 10 people a year—it depends on how much I like them!”—Michael Symon, Lola

“I give a carbonara pack: a hunk of Pecorino cheese, some guanciale, three types of peppercorns, my favorite imported rigatoni, a recipe and some great wine.”—Barbara Lynch, No. 9 Park

“Northwestern Cutlery is a super comprehensive knife store that’s very popular among people in the restaurant industry. In fact, I’m not sure many people know about it outside the industry. But they have great knives, mandolines, good pots and pans, and a good staff who help guide professionals and amateurs alike.”—Grant Achatz, Alinea

Photo courtesy of Consiglio’s.

“Every house should have a meat slicer. There’s a great Italian one sold by a company in Canada called Consiglio’s for just a few hundred bucks. ”—Ethan Stowell, How to Cook a Wolf

“A citrus squeezer. I’m such an acid freak, if there’s something I use more than anything, it’s freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice. ”—Dean Fearing, Fearing’s

“A Pyrex measuring cup with a spout. Liquids should always be measured in a transparent measuring cup and this old faithful is the best. Plus you can use it to melt chocolate in a microwave.”—Dorie Greenspan, Beurre & Sel

“A good wine key is always appreciated, either to receive or give; you never know when you’re going to need one. I don’t have a particular favorite brand, but balance is really important, it should feel good in the hand.”—Scott Conant, Scarpetta

Photo courtesy of Roederer Estate.

“Champagne is a great thing to buy—and if you can get a magnum, even better. Roederer Estate is fantastic, especially for the price. I also like Ruinart and Billecart-Salmon. Of course, if you can do a Dom Pérignon, people will feel even more special. But there are so many good Champagne houses, it’s nice to search out smaller ones; even at a big liquor store, someone’s usually walking the aisles who can give you insight into smaller producers."—Shawn McClain, Green Zebra

“I love to give glögg, a Swedish spiced wine. I make mine with red wine, little bit of vodka, orange zest, cinnamon and raisins. You can make it with bad wine, too—it doesn’t have to be something fancy.”—Marcus Samuelsson, Red Rooster

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Retirement Gift Ideas - Food Gifts That Help A Healthy Diet And Healthy Lifestyle For The Retiree

Choosing from the large selection of retirement gifts can be difficult. Many of us when we think of a retirement gift, we think a photo of the group, or a watch, or something to do with golf, or travel. Which these are great gifts. I am thinking a little closer to home.

What is one of the most important concerns of retirees after their retirement? It would be concerns about their health. They want to stay healthy. They want to enjoy a long healthy life with family and friends. To be healthy enough to travel, play golf and more generally, be able to enjoy life.

As folks are usually older when they are ready for retirement, you may find them already choosing a healthy diet. They are already watching more carefully what they eat, how many calories, how much fat and how much sodium. Many are already on a high blood pressure medication or have had heart problems in the past or may be diabetic. So they need to choose a healthy lifestyle and eat healthy.

Here are some retirement gift ideas focused around food gifts: Note: It is helpful if you know some of their interests, hobbies, foods they like and don't like for these gift ideas.

They may have always wanted to learn to cook, to be a better cook, or wanted to learn to cook a different way or style. The Mediterranean Diet has been touted as one of the most healthy diets. Perhaps if they enjoy cooking, maybe they would enjoy some cooking classes. Local cooking classes or send them to take cooking classes in Italy or Greece would be great gift ideas.
A set of cookware from a small set to a large set. A very basic set to a gourmet set of cookware. This would let them cook just about anything. As we get older sometimes our cookware has seen better days. Or give cookware that makes their cooking easier like a crock pot, (you will be surprised at the price range of $30 to several hundred dollars), or a pressure cooker, a Dutch oven or a pan or skillet with a lid. Good cookware makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
A barbeque is a great gift. Cooking outdoors. No messing-up the kitchen. They can cook fish (which is good for their heart) without smelling up the kitchen. There are all types, sizes and prices.
Food items unless it's wine or champagne are not as common for retirement gifts as they are here today and gone tomorrow. Retirement gifts are usually gifts that last and are remembered. If the person loves good food or has gourmet tastes, there are nice food options. Balsamic vinegar, (the best is around $175), is very expensive and unforgettable. There are collections of olive oils (olive oil is good for the heart) from around the world and some come in beautiful wood or olive wood cases. Truffles or truffle oil would be an expensive and unique food gift, (black truffles around $300-$600 or white truffles $2000 - $3000 per pound). There are chocolates in all different price ranges and qualities from all around the world and dark chocolate is good for the heart.
Herbs, spices and salt free seasonings are key to a flavorful healthy diet. Herbs and spices can be quite expensive depending on what you select, the amount and the quality. For instance, some of the best and most flavorful spices like Tellicherry peppercorns sell around $15.00 a pound and some of the best quality ground cinnamon sells for around $30 per pound, 1 ounce of Saffron is around $150 (the most expensive spice), but these flavors are amazing. If they are cooking healthy they need to increase and learn how to season their food without the usual salt, sugar and Msg. Salt free seasonings are important and make cooking easier and more flavorful, especially when trying to prepare a more healthy diet and/or a low sodium diet. Seasonings could be also be added to any of the gifts listed.

You want to give a gift that will be used, remembered and enjoyed. Hopefully you found retirement gift ideas focusing on food gifts that will help them follow a healthy diet, live a more healthy lifestyle and enjoy their retirement.

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Diets For Quick Weight Loss - And 3 Gourmet Fat Burning Ideas To Fire Up Your Metabolism

Diets for quick weight loss must be healthy. When people go about losing weight in unorthodox fashions, they can end up hurting themselves. Sometimes worse ending up with a dreadful eating disorder, that's definitely not healthy. Most People associate dieting and weight loss with the sacrificing of foods. You will have to make sacrifices but the alternatives don't have to be as dull as you might think. Even though you must watch what you eat during this process, it doesn't hurt to look upon it with a more tasteful and artistic eye. You will learn here to cook gourmet dishes extremely healthy and won't set you back one bit.

Most people consider "diet food" to be bland and boring. When you cut the salt, the sugar, the fat and grease then you may think that there isn't much left as far as flavor. In fact grease showing through a paper bag for a take out meal is enough to make some mouths water.

There are tons of ways that you can construct gourmet meals in a healthy and effective fat burning eating plan. To do it your will need a protein, and carb(skillfully dressed) and some sort of veggies that you won't cringe at.

In the morning we want to get your palette in the groove of things and your metabolism moving try a Spring Omelet Primavera. Use egg whites as you would to make an omelet. Then add mushrooms, green peppers or jalapenos, and fresh basil. Try also hash browns(that were baked and not fried and not salted) with a fresh fruit salad.

A couple of hours in between these meals just have 4 ounces of protein and a small fruit snack. Some thing like a green apple or a banana. The in between meals as just snacks to support your gourmet fat burning meals.

For lunch we will add color as well. Try a Shish Kebob With Saffron Rice. You will need four ounces of lean steak to skewer. Alongside it add squash, peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Served this over a bed of rice. Grill the skewers for a abundant grilled flavor. The fat will drip off the meat, and the rice has carbohydrates to keep you metabolism moving.

Now for dinner you could multiply this to feed a family who will no doubt enjoy it. Have some chicken breast sauteed in garlic and white wine. Steamed asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes(fat free, no sour cream), your veggies and carbs will complete this meal. Spread this out amongst the family and they may not realize it's actually extremely healthy.

These are just to a gourmet eating style. Let these meal inspire you to take you gourmet weight loss ideas to a whole 'notha level.

Visit Austin here to find the best diets for quick weight loss and get your own free gourmet fat burning meal plans.

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Gourmet Mustard Ideas

Gourmet mustard enhances the taste of food to a great extent. Its unique medicinal properties have helped many people eliminate numerous diseases. It is said that it was first used for medicinal purposes before the culinary qualities were discovered thereafter.

It is available in various varieties and tastes. These include; the black type, the Creole type and the white type. Each of these has a specific unique quality and gives a specific flavor to the food that is prepared using them. It is a unique ingredient because it adds flavor, nutrient quantity and also medicinal values to the food prepared using it.

Gourmet mustard can be mixed with wine, vinegar sugar, spice and many other ingredients. This mixture can be used to make various food items. The food items may be non-vegetarian fish, chicken, sausage, and pork, or vegetarian such as avocado and cabbage amongst many others. When mixed with other ingredients, it can enhance the taste and nutrient content of food prepared using it. This makes the dishes prepared using it more appetizing and appealing to those eating it.

Gourmet mustard is popular with many people. Queen Victorian of England and the Roman pope, are some well known personalities who had a great liking for it that they appointed their own mustard makers. Eating any dish prepared using it is a memorable experience. it can be used to make dishes when one is having a party. This is a sure way to impress the party guests. You are very unlikely to go wrong as it is very popular with many people.

Peter Gitundu Creates Interesting And Thought Provoking Content On Mustard For More Information, Read More Of His Articles Here MUSTARD RECIPES If You Enjoyed This Article, Make Sure You SUBSCRIBE TO MY RSS FEED!

Holiday Ideas - Gifting With Food

An unusually nice way to let friends know that you are thinking of them during the holidays is to send or bring them gifts of food. Not only are food gifts always usable but they are the fashion in gift giving today. What simpler way is there to find a find for the person who has everything or the one who has very little? To meet your holiday needs, many gourmet cookware shops and food stores specialize in food gifting, or if you love to spend time in the kitchen you can prepare you own favorite specialties for your friends.

In the last number of years, 'Food Gifting' has become so popular that a whole new industry of 'Gourmet Basket' making has emerged. Baskets come in many different forms and are not only made from woven wicker but are now hand crafted from wood and other materials. In addition to baskets there are beautifully designed gift bags and old-fashioned cookie tins for food gifts. One nice way to present a food gift is to fill a cooking utensil with related items. An example would be a Pasta Pot filled with gourmet pastas and sauces, Italian cheeses and red and white checkered napkins.When gifting with food it is especially nice to choose a theme for your gift and fit the packaging and the contents into it. Below is a list of food themes which suggest ideas for holiday food gifts. You may like to choose one of these or decide on your own. Whichever you do should be our own choice, and fit the tastes and needs of the person receiving the gift.


Wine & Cheese
Fine Spirits
Bread Baking
Pasta & Sauces
Childhood Delights
Coffee & Tea
Sugar & Spice's
Fruit & Nut's

Gourmet Popcorn Treats If you feel creative and have enough time, you may enjoy purchasing the gift container and contents, and putting the package together yourself. However if you, like many people today are very busy and do not have the time, most shops will put together the gift for you with little or no charge as long as you purchase all the items from them. If you do package your own gift, be sure to wrap it in a see through wrapping paper such as clear or colored cellophane. Food gifts are so pretty and delightful to look at that you won't want to cover them up with opaque wrapping paper.

Retail outlets that do put together food baskets and other related items can be found in your local Yellow Pages or in local newspaper ads and or mail-order companies, or you can choose from one of the stores from the listed below.

Specialty Food Stores: Gelson's Markets, Bristol Farms, Whole Foods

Culinary Stores: Let's Get Cookin' (Westlake Village, CA) Sur La Table, Williams Sonoma

Don't forget the Candy Stores, Wine Shops and even some Bakeries. Last but not least, don't omit your own favorite specialties which your friends would probably love to receive along with the recipe, if you are willing to part with it. Whichever you do, you will enjoy selecting and or putting together your gift and your friends will enjoy getting them and using them.

Finally, a delightful bonus derived from 'Food Gifting' is that you don't have to rack your brain trying to decide what to give people. 'Gifting with Food' comes naturally and easily without struggle and is a joy and pleasure to the giver as well as the recipient!

I have been a children's cooking teacher and educator for over 35 years. In addition I have worked for Cuisinart as a Consumer Adviser and taught classes on the proper use of food processors. I teach monthly classes in Ventura, County California for children, teens and their parents. I love to share my ideas to help kids be safe, learn and have fun in the kitchen. I hold a MS in Nutrition and Food Sciences from California State University.

Please check out my website at http://www.sylveeeskitchen.com

Gourmet Gift ideas for Baskets

If you run out of ideas for gifts, gourmet gift baskets are a great suggestion. Who wouldn't want to receive lots of goodies which is good for snacks or to serve as a full meal? Here are some of the types of baskets can be solved alone or easily found in delis and shops online.

Depending on the brand and type of products that you include in this, a coffee or a tea set is one of the cheapest, but elegant gift you can give. You can have as a snack pack with a bag of coffee beans and a can of loose tea leaves. You can include a cup of coffee or a teapot and Cup set for brewing tea leaves. If it is for a pair, put 2 cups or a teapot and 2 cups. Throw in a pack of coffee cake or tea biscuits, if desired.

You can expand this idea of gourmet gift basket for a full breakfast. Make any breakfast item you want the main attraction, instead. Give a parcel of pancake and waffle mix, a small jug of maple syrup and a little jar of preserves. Include a package of coffee beans, tea leaves or tea bags, and you've got a full meal to start the day. If you're giving a big family, give a basket full of assorted English muffin, a jar or two of canned fruit and a bottle of juice, coffee or tea.

If you want the romance in a box, you can easily get that, too. A basket can have a bottle of fine sparkling wine and decadent chocolate candies. For the sweet tooth, you can choose between chocolate gift baskets you'll find in many grocery stores. You can find these packages with dark truffles, biscuits, sweets, pie, sauce and drink mix-all in rich chocolate. If it's your style, you can even throw in a little plush toy in this type of gift.

A box of fruit and wine is also a great idea to give for just about any occasion. Birthdays, anniversaries or any reason for a celebration is a good time to give this type of basket. Another option for this basket should include some crackers and a variety of preferred cheese to go with the wine.

You can get a gourmet gift basket online or in grocery stores and supermarkets in your neighborhood. You can also opt to do a basket of yours. Whatever you do, just keep in mind the interests and personality of the receiver and the gift will surely be appreciated.

Looking for a gourmet gift basket online? Visit all lots in flower for a wide range of baskets. Check out their chocolate gift baskets, wine and other gift ideas.

Wedding Reception Food Ideas: Stretch Your Budget With A Gourmet Salsa and Chip Station

Wedding reception foods do not have to be expensive. A gourmet salsa and chip station is a fun way to stretch your wedding reception food dollars.

If you are looking for some help with stretching your food dollars for your wedding reception, you might want to consider offering a gourmet salsa and chip station at your wedding reception. Not only is this idea very inexpensive, it is super easy.

Perhaps you are thinking, "Chips and salsa at my wedding... are you kidding?"

No, I am not kidding at all!

The truth is chips and salsa can be dressed up to appear quite appropriate for wedding reception fare. By designing an attractive multi-tiered station - you will have the makings of a crowd pleasing snack without using more than maybe $25.00 or so of your reception budget.

A gourmet salsa and chip station is as simple as:

1. Determining the look of the station. You will want the station to compliment the look you are trying to achieve. Keep that in mind as you consider the design of the station.

2. Collecting interesting tablecloths, beautiful rustic baskets and bowls, interesting props, and some lifts to raise food to varying levels. Your lifts can either be covered by fabric or if they are attractive and match the mood, they can be used as part of the overall design.

3. Playing with the different pieces. Have fun! You can set the pieces up on your dining room table or kitchen table months in advance as you work on coming up with a look you like. Then just snap a picture, take some notes, and store the details away in a file folder.

4. Packing a box with everything you need for recreating the station at the wedding reception venue. If you don't need to use the decorative items and dishes you have collected until the wedding, then go ahead and save yourself some time later and put everything for your gourmet salsa and chips station in a box that will be delivered to the reception site at the appropriate time. If it is several months in advance, hold off on buying your salsa and chips. You will want to buy those closer to the wedding month.

5. Buying the chips and salsa in bulk at a wholesale warehouse like Sams or Costco will help you save additional money.

6. Adding to the visual appeal of the salsa is so easy. Shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, confetti chopped fresh veggies and iced baby shrimp are a few gourmet touches you can add to the top of the salsa. Send along a cooler to the wedding reception with ziplock bags of each garnish that you are offering. You can limit the garnish to an inexpensive sprinkle or if you prefer, you can offer your guests bowls of options for hands-on sprinkling. If you want your guests to sprinkle their own toppings, keep in my mind that you will need to buy considerably more quantity of each item.

This station is based on a very simple concept of designing, collecting, packaging, transporting and ultimately pouring, sprinkling and serving. How easy is that?

A wedding reception station does not get much easier or less expensive than this. When a food station such as this is so rich with personality and panache, no one will even realize that this station cost you somewhere around $25.00 or so, depending on the quantity of chips, salsa, and toppings you purchased.

© 2006 Kathi Dameron, Kathi Dameron and Associates

Note To Publishers: You are invited to share this article through your ezine, website or print publication provided you publish this article in its entirety and include the copyright statement, bio information, active website links and contact information for Kathi Dameron and Associates as provided in the resource section at the bottom of the article.

Abundant Blessings!

Kathi Dameron

Wedding Reception Teleseminars For Brides

Learn How To Self-Cater or Semi-Cater Your Own Wedding Reception

http://www.kathidameron.com 850-422-3599

Kathi Dameron teaches brides-to-be how to create beautiful and affordable wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridesmaid luncheons and other festive soirees that pop with personality and panache.

Today, Kathi shares her wedding reception expertise that she gained during her tenure as the owner, chef, and event designer of Canopy Rose Catering, a high end catering and special event company that was located in Tallahassee, Florida. Brides and other interested individuals who want to learn the secrets to creating a dream wedding on any budget can attend Kathi's Wedding Reception Teleseminars.

Brides can learn more about attending these teleseminars from the comfort of their own home by visiting http://www.kathidameron.com or contacting Kathi Dameron at 850-422-3599

Holiday Food Gift Ideas

Holiday season is coming - Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year - in succession. These occasions come with gift-giving and sharing life with food. So, isn't it a good idea to give the joy of a scrumptious, delectable and mouthwatering edibles to our family, friends and all our loved ones? Below are food gift ideas for the holidays.

Gourmet

Gourmet is not your everyday food. They are mostly made from ingredients not common to your neighborhood stores. It takes an exotic palate to really appreciate gourmet. They can be cakes, cheese, or spices. And they are just the perfect gift to give on the holidays. As a specialty food, gourmet makes special holiday presents. Special foods fit with special occasions. Gourmet gifts are usually packaged in a basket. Bring merriness to someone by giving them a basket of gourmet goodness!

Chocolates

You don't have to have a sweet tooth to love chocolates. Chocolates are good for all ages and is said to stimulate your senses (good as a wake up snack). It's also romantic. It is a suitable (and should I say safe?) gift that can be given to either gender. There are many varieties of chocolates. White, brown, or black (dark) ones. In some cases, they dye the chocolate in different colors and mold them in different shapes too. Imagine giving your loved one a dozen of red edible yummy roses? That's beauty and decadence combined. As everybody loves chocolate, why not give a basket of these good delights and make your loved ones happy this special season.

Cookies

Cookies will rule the planet again in this gift-giving season. They will be packaged in tin cans in all shapes and colors. They will also be placed in gift baskets. And of course, they will come in boxes, too. Cookies like chocolates come in all flavors, color, and shapes. They are very versatile. Just gift-perfect for any occasion. My favorite is the chocolate chip cookies. I also love oatmeal cookies. They are very delicious and at the same time healthy. Of course, cookies are always good to eat or to give. Be sure to stock up your cookie pantry this holiday.

Cakes

I'm a cake lover but never a baker. My favorite is the fudge-filled chocolate cake with fudge icing. It is really heavenly. I surely have a sweet tooth. This Christmas, I will definitely have a cake on the dinner table. Maybe a Santa decorated white cake. Or maybe with a Christmas tree as a cake topper. Cake is a symbol of celebration.

Fruits

Mouthwatering fruits in different colors and shapes, placed creatively in a gift basket, make them very welcome food gifts. Fruit baskets are a thoughtful way of saying "I care." When you give fresh fruits, it's like you're wishing the other person good health and long life. Make someone's holiday jollier by giving fresh fruit baskets.

Popcorn

Popcorn is a healthy, light, and satisfying snack. Now, there are gourmet popcorns. They come in variety of flavors, too. This holiday season, gather the whole family and enjoy see a movie at home. Popcorn is such a family snack everyone would enjoy.

Dinner Meals

Give the gift of dinner this holiday. Everyone deserves a good meal, especially on Thanksgiving and Christmas but not everyone can cook, right? Eliminate the hard work in having the perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. Serve to the table a delightful and delicious dinner without slaving in the kitchen. Give it to your family, your loved ones, your special someone, or yourself.

Wine

Good food is not just complete without a good wine. It just completes the entrée. Wines can be inexpensive gifts but shows taste and elegance on the part of the giver. It brings an atmosphere of friendliness and air of sophistication when you give wine as a gift. A good wine is always a delight either as a gift or part of dining.

Additionally, wines can make the perfect corporate gifts. They would eliminate the guess work on what to give to a neighbor, a boss, or a new associate. Wines can be cheap to expensive but the packaging can make a whole lot of difference. Why not give a gift of wine this holiday? If you have tried it before, you know what magic it brings to the giver and the receiver. If you have not done it before, now is the time to try it.

Perfect food comes with planning and careful shopping. Shop now and have more time in the future. It would eliminate the rush and unnecessary stress brought by the holiday season. The food companies will do the packaging and shipping. You can order your food gift as early as 60 days from specialty food gift companies online. To know the food companies giving away coupon codes and giving free shipping this holiday season, go to Food Gift Ideas [http://www.foodgivers.com].

To read more articles from the same author, visit wowezine.com [http://www.wowezine.com].

Gourmet easy grilled chicken ideas

You can transform a humble chicken in a gastronomic delicacy quite easily, using a spice rub or marinate the meat before you cook it. What make a delicious gravy to serve alongside grilled bird or taking inspiration from traditional Mexican foods and spicing poultry before cooking it to perfection?

There are many ways to make easy-to-use simple cuisine, cheap and easily obtainable ingredients. One of the easiest ways to make great barbecue chicken is to add your favorite flavors (chili powder, curry powder, lime juice, lemon juice, fresh or dried herbs, Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce are just some of your options) of mayonnaise and use this as a marinade or basting sauce for poultry.

Lemon, garlic and Rosemary grilled chicken

This recipe serves eight people and juicy grilled chicken combined with a homemade barbecue sauce. The sauce is basted to the birds as they Bake and lemon, Rosemary and garlic flavors really penetrate deeply into the chicken meat, giving this dish taste delicious.

Whisk one cup of mayonnaise and a third with four teaspoons of chopped fresh rosemary, chopped 2 cloves garlic, half a cup of lemon juice and grated zest of a lemon. You can make this sauce three days ahead if cover and refrigerate.

You'll need a grid with the heat and areas not so hot, so Bank the coals in a mound of Grill, or Preheat a gas grill to high and then turn the burner on one side. Oil the cooking grid.

Cut into eight pieces each a pair of four-pound bird and use a teaspoon and a half of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper to season the pieces. Grill them on the less hot grill for twenty minutes or until an instant read inserted into Center of chicken reads 165 degrees f.

Transfer the chicken to the hottest part of the grill and brush with lemon mayonnaise mixture over them. Their grid, basting occasionally with the remaining sauce until it is transformed into a glaze. This will take approximately four minutes. Serve hot with any remaining sauce on the side.

Grilled chicken for Mexican food lovers

If you like authentic Mexican food recipes, what about adding a South of the border touch to your poultry? For this recipe, you will need eight half boneless chicken breast, skinless. Half cup of mayonnaise combine with a packet of taco seasoning mix three tablespoons of lime juice.

Sear the bird on one side on the coals and then flip it. Brush the mixture of lime mayonnaise on it and Grill for 6 minutes. Flip again and brush the sauce on the side. Keep the Cook until juices run clear and then serve. If you want to cut the fat in this recipe, simply pass the mayonnaise for reduced fat sour cream.

Chicken was popular in Mexico during the history of Mexican food and it's easy to make Mexican recipes at home, if you opt for the chicken, beef or pork, or if you prefer to use seafood. This kitchen also offers many possibilities for a vegetarian.

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Business Christmas Gift Ideas: Why Specialty Food Is The Perfect Business Christmas Gift

Many people wouldn't guess, but some of the best business Christmas gift ideas are those which are edible. Bosses, employees and small and large businesses alike are often saddled with meaningless and useless gifts at the holiday time. However, food gifts always prove to be a big hit at company gift exchanges and parties, for boss's gifts, and at other business holiday functions.

If you're racking your brain trying to come up with business Christmas gift ideas, specialty foods are always a welcome gift. After all, who doesn't eat?

Depending on the recipient's likes and dislikes, you can personalize the gift enough so they think you put a lot of thought into it. And you don't have to know the person that well to get it right. For instance, if someone is a coffee and chocolate lover (as many of us are!), consider a gourmet coffee-infused chocolate candy gift. It's different enough to be special, yet special enough to be different!

If the recipient tends to be more of risk taker or enjoys trying new things, specialty hot sauces or a new set of spices will do the trick. Environmentalists will enjoy organic and fair trade food gifts, while diabetics will enjoy a special sugar-free artisan treat they can't get at the regular grocery store. And let's not forget our gluten-free friends! Many specialty food producers cater to those with special dietary restrictions.

Since artisan food producers normally specialize in a single line of products, their products are usually handmade, of a higher quality with fresher ingredients, and not churned out by a factory.

Another great example of business Christmas gift ideas are hampers. These can contain elements of gourmet food, special beverages, and baked goods. These are not only a hit at company functions, but also a hit with the families of your co-workers you are giving them to. Hampers can be decorated on the outside with whatever colors you see fit, and can include ribbon and lace. Wicker basket hampers are often a great idea, and give the gift more of a classy and thought out feel.

Gourmet and specialty food business Christmas gift ideas can range from savory to sweet, and from fancy delicacies to special cookies. Examples include things like hard-to-find specialty sea salts and truffle oils to rum pralines and nut brittles.

If you want to see looks of genuine delight on the faces of your boss and co-workers (or maybe even get a raise!), get gourmet business Christmas gifts prepared by local artisan food producers - they are always a welcome gift.

Vivica Fredericks is a foodie who enjoys writing about new artisan foods almost as much as she does tasting them. Her latest passion is the gourmet marshmallows she found online at specialty artisan food market http://fooducopia.com.

Food Gifts With Flair - Gourmet Gift Ideas From the Holiday Gift Lady

Are you bored with spiced drink mix or layered soup in a jar? Let me inspire you with some new food gift ideas! I like making treats in the kitchen because they are cheap and don't take much time shopping for. My family likes them because they taste good and are consumable - no clutter! Here are some of the themes I use for inspiration in choosing the right recipe for each person:


Family History or Country of Origin - Introduce a person to a food that originated in the place your family is from. My husband's family is from Hungary so every year they make small crescent shaped nut filled cookies called Kieflies to give as gifts. It becomes a family event as we grind the nuts, roll out dough, and sprinkle the finished cookies with sugar. Then we pack them up in boxes to send off to relatives in California and deliver them personally to nearby family and friends.
Ethnic Dinner in a Basket - Gather a variety of ethnic food items into your own gourmet food gift basket. To our family who lives in upstate New York (but is originally from the Southwest), we send enchilada sauce and our family's favorite canned salsa. Add a bag of flour tortilla mix, Spanish rice mix, and some dried beans and you have the beginnings of a fiesta.
Hobbies - Does this person you know sit around playing Japanese video games all night? Give them Japanese treats. If they go participate in Civil War Reenactments, find a historical recipe book and cook them up some hard tack for the next camp out. If they like to scrapbook, put together a basket of healthy snack foods such as spiced almonds or pecans, dried fruit, pretzel mix and homemade or gourmet mustard for them to share with friends at the next photo cropping marathon.
Favorite Food - Think of a person's favorite food and then make several varieties of it. My friend Julie likes muffins so I could make her blueberry muffin mix, apple spice muffin mix, streusel muffin mix, and cranberry orange muffin mix. My neighbor Tony likes hot stuff so he might enjoy pickled peppers, hot salsa, and my mother-in-law's famous spicy asparagus spears.

Using these ideas for inspiration, you will have fun mixing up some food gifts for this holiday season and have your family and friends asking for more of your gourmet treats. Happy Holidays!

Melanie Farkas is the Holiday Gift Lady. She has hundreds of gift ideas for every holiday on her website at http://www.uniqueholidaygiftideas.com/

You can find many more food gift ideas on her Gourmet Holiday Gift Basket Ideas [http://www.uniqueholidaygiftideas.com/gourmet-holiday-gift-basket.html/] page.

What Are Great Food Gift Ideas That Anyone Will Enjoy?

When you think of Thanksgiving, a big juicy turkey usually comes to mind, Valentines Day makes you think about chocolates and Christmas conjures up images of cookies. Putting together some type of food gift is a great idea for a present, whether it's for a birthday or for a Christmas present. If you know the person well, then put together a food gift basket of all their favorite goodies, or if you do not know them that well you can always include a few items that most everyone enjoys.

Giving this type of present can be fairly inexpensive, yet it will still show you cared enough to take the time to put it together. For example, if you need gifts for your coworkers, then use a recipe for simple spiced party nuts and create different ways to wrap them. You can use a mesh materiel tied up with a pretty bow or go to the dollar store and buy several different types of tins or bottles. Be sure to give everyone a different wrap and they will be a big hit.

There is no set rule pertaining to the types of food that may be used as gifts. It can be anything from simple home-made recipes to gourmet food baskets. Consider using a few unique recipes to put together a food gift that shows everyone that you put a great deal of thought and time into their gift. Perhaps you can make some homemade jams or preserves and can them in different styles of jars. You have probably seen those gifts in the stores that have cookie or cocoa mixes in a jar, so consider using your favorite recipes to produce something similar.

For the holidays, consider putting together some Christmas gift baskets for friends and relatives. Be creative in your choices; it shows them how much you appreciate them when you take the time to put something like this together. Fruit baskets are a great idea for grandparents and for the wine connoisseur on your list, consider giving them a wine gift basket.

Everyone knows that the smell of gingerbread baking is a sure sign that the Christmas holidays are here, so why not expand on that for some of your gift giving needs. For example, you can gather all the ingredients together that are needed for gingerbread cookies, place them in a basket with your favorite gingerbread recipe. Or you can go the extra mile and bake a gingerbread house, which is a great idea for a food gift that will be enjoyed by everyone.

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Great Gourmet Food gift ideas

The best gift ideas don't always have to be expensive items like jewelry or electronics. Some of the best gifts are gifts that, if they are good, it won't last very long at all! Here are some gift ideas of excellent food that are sure to satisfy even the most demanding people on your gift giving list.

Boxed Chocolates-if by high-end chocolate or chocolate shop in your local mall, chocolates are always a thoughtful gift, special occasion for any adult. After all, who doesn't love chocolate? You can also find available in many types of reading, including organic chocolates and sugar free.

Gourmet Popcorn-there are so many flavors of gourmet popcorn available, from caramel flavor, cheese popcorn drizzled with chocolate and incorporated with fantasy, nuts, popcorn is a food that pleases everyone.

Gourmet apples-usually using large, juicy and fresh apples Granny Smith exquisitely, gourmet apples are encased in milk, dark or white chocolate, caramel, roasted spiced nuts and candy, with beautiful arches and colorful wrapping. Apple just gourmet can serve 1-4 6 people, so it makes a great gift for a family or someone who maintains for the holidays.

Pretzels-gourmet these fresh, usually salty pretzels are drenched in chocolate and decorated with sprinkles, nuts, candies and often more chocolate drizzling. Gourmet pretzels make an awesome gift for anyone who likes pretzels regular but also craving something different. The salt from pretzels makes for a nice contrast in taste to finish rich and sweet chocolate. You can find gourmet pretzels in bars or traditional pretzel shapes.

Fine cheese-cheese are a gift more practical, since the cheese can be kept on for use later in the year. The cheese is a great gift for people who love good wine and enjoy a picnic. Don't forget to take a cheese slicer too!

Wine and beer-good wine is an infallible gift for every connoisseur host, hostess or wine. However, the choice of good wine can be difficult, as more expensive doesn't always mean more quality. Make sure you go to a local shop that specializes in wines and has an expert available, so you can ask questions about the collection of a good wine. There are also many good online stores that specialize in wine.

Fruits-fruits is a wonderful holiday gift for people in areas where the winter is in full force and the supply of fresh fruit is limited. Fruit is also a good gift for the health conscious.

Dried fruits & nuts-nuts and dried fruits are a traditional gift idea. A great gift for the health conscious and for people who don't like fatty foods or candy.

Cheesecake-Cheesecake and other sweets were not so popular for gift giving up to recent times. With the explosion of e-commerce, specialty desserts freshly made cakes and pastries are widely available and can be sent virtually anywhere. Cheesecake is another wonderful gift for the hostess or to someone who just loves cheesecake. Available in many different flavors swirled with fruit, cookies and Crumb crusts or just plain and creamy as original New York cheesecake, cheesecake is a gift that will not last long in any home.

Coffee and tea-if you have a caffeine fiend on your list, or just someone who enjoys the taste of coffee or tea, there is a wide variety of gourmet coffee and tea available to give as gifts. There are hundreds of different flavors of tea, fruity, herbal, green, medicines and more. While the flavors of coffee can come from exotic countries and be flavoured with anything, including chocolate, nuts, spices and vanilla. Coffee is also a practical gift, since it is so popular and many people drink it every morning.

Gift baskets and gourmet-food gift baskets are always an option, especially when pressed for time. You can find gift baskets, filled with wine and cheese, with chocolate, coffee and tea, candy or any or all of the above.

If you choose to luxuriously rich chocolate, imported fine cheese or a sweet treat to hand, who was given a gift of gourmet food is sure to appreciate.

Charley Lawrence writes for Richland Gourmet apples, where you can order delicious gourmet treats, including gourmet apples and pretzels drenched in chocolate, nuts and caramel, delivered to your home or a gift recipient. Visit us www.richlandgourmetapples.com to:

Grande Gourmet Food idee regalo

The best gift ideas don't always have to be expensive items like jewelry or electronics. Some of the best gifts are gifts that, if they are good, it won't last very long at all! Here are some gift ideas of excellent suggestions that are sure to satisfy even the most demanding people on your gift giving list.

Boxed Chocolates-if by high-end chocolate or chocolate shop in your local mall, chocolates are always a thoughtful gift, special occasion for any adult. After all, who doesn't love chocolate? You can also find available in many types of reading, including organic chocolates and sugar free.

Gourmet Popcorn-there are so many flavors of gourmet popcorn available, from caramel flavor, cheese popcorn drizzled with chocolate and incorporated with fantasy, nuts, popcorn is a food that pleases everyone.

Gourmet apples-usually using large, juicy and exquisitely fresh apples, Granny Smith apples are gourmet encased in milk, dark or white chocolate, caramel, roasted spiced nuts and candy, with beautiful arches and colorful wrapping. Apple just 1 gourmet can serve 4-6 people, so it makes a great gift for a family or someone who maintains for the holidays.

Pretzels-gourmet these fresh, usually salty pretzels are drenched in chocolate and decorated with sprinkles, nuts, candies and often more chocolate drizzling. Gourmet pretzels make an awesome gift for anyone who likes pretzels regular but also craving something different. The salt from pretzels makes for a nice contrast in taste to finish rich and sweet chocolate. You can find gourmet pretzels in bars or traditional pretzel shapes.

Fine cheese-cheese are a gift more practical, since the cheese can be kept on for use later in the year. The cheese is a great gift for people who love good wine and enjoy a picnic. Don't forget to take a cheese slicer too!

Wine and beer-good wine is an infallible gift for every connoisseur host, hostess or wine. However, the choice of good wine can be difficult, as more expensive doesn't always mean more quality. Make sure you go to a local store that specializes in wines and has an expert available, so you can ask questions about the collection of a good wine. There are also many good online stores that specialize in wine.

Fruits-fruits is a wonderful holiday gift for people in areas where the winter is in full force and the supply of fresh fruit is limited. Fruit is also a good gift for the health conscious.

Dried fruits & nuts-nuts and dried fruits are a traditional gift idea. A great gift for the health conscious and for people who don't like fatty foods or candy.

Cheesecake-Cheesecake and other sweets were not so popular for gift-giving up to recent times. With the explosion of e-commerce, specialty desserts freshly made cakes and pastries are widely available and can be sent virtually anywhere. Cheesecake is another wonderful gift for the hostess or to someone who just loves cheesecake. Available in many different flavors swirled with fruit, cookies and Crumb crusts or just plain and creamy as original New York cheesecake, cheesecake is a gift that will not last long in any home.

Coffee and tea-if you have a caffeine fiend on your list, or just someone who enjoys the taste of coffee or tea, there is a wide variety of gourmet coffee and tea available to give as gifts. There are hundreds of different flavors of tea, fruity, herbal, green, medicines and more. While the flavors of coffee can come from exotic countries and be flavoured with anything, including chocolate, nuts, spices and vanilla. Coffee is also a practical gift, since it is so popular and many people drink it every morning.

Gift baskets and gourmet food-pre-order gift baskets are always an option, especially when pressed for time. You can find gift baskets, filled with wine and cheese, chocolate, coffee and tea, candy or any or all of the above.

If you choose to luxuriously rich chocolate, imported fine cheese or a sweet treat to hand, who was given a gift of gourmet food is sure to appreciate.

Charley Lawrence writes for Richland Gourmet apples, where you can order delicious gourmet treats, including gourmet apples and pretzels drenched in chocolate, nuts and caramel, delivered to your home or a gift recipient. Visit us www.richlandgourmetapples.com to:

Baby Shower & Food Ideas

Choosing A Baby Shower Menu Is A Fun Part Of Planning A Baby Shower During Your Pregnancy. Find Baby Shower Food And Baby Shower Recipes You'll Love.

Check it out!