't have the time to make a whole meal from scratch like I used to (or do all the dishes...I don’t have a dishwasher)...are there any good convenience foods out there that are fast and easy to prepare with little prep work,...

I used to like Ming Tsai until I tried his restaurant, Blue Ginger (MA). I had noodles—hard to mess up, especially with an Asian chef/owner. But I could barely manage a few bites before sending it back. Way too salty. The...

Re. wine – yeas, soup spoonfuls. Start with 4 first, add 5th if the dough seems too dry. The key to this dough is to have everything at approximately the same temp – the butter should NOT be too soft though or...

Yes, they are. The first time I had them was when a friend brought them on a walk-a-thon, and they’re great, because they’re refreshing without any mess. I’m glad you enjoyed them.

pasta’s of spaghetti with fresh anchovie and wild fennel arrived on my plate with totally overcooked mush for pasta and the accompanying sauce was a mess. It was just an overly bitter tomatoe puree without a hint of fresh...

MY DD, the gorgeous bartender and sometime waitperson reports that tips have shrunk of late. She’s lucky to get 10 per cent these days ... is that a trend, or an anomaly? She’s located in a touristy type area, and...

, especially in the spring. we’d go via grand central station, so when we got back, we could have a burger at Michael Jordan’s steakhouse (sounds cheesy, but excellent burger!) and watch the gorgeous, carefully...

type bun you choose. i personally like large soft bagels. just mess around with these basics until you get it to the way you like it. so good luck!

. This technique works great for a quick last minute one pot meal with jarred or leftover sauce or when you want to add some veggies to instant mac and cheese (I like Annies). Asparagus, cauliflower, broccoli, yellow squash,...

of others at your level led by someone with skills, you’ll get an idea of the simple techniques to get started and can quickly progress onto more complicated recipes and techniques. Whatever you do, don’t give up and...