We love to cook, but to be as great a chef as we'd like to be, we're definitely going to need some tips. Here to help us better plan our dinners (and dinner parties) is Dana McCauley, cookbook author and food trend tracker.
What's an easy way to put a new spin on old favourites?
Using fresh herbs or changing the flavour profile of an old favourite by adding some curry or another ethnic spice blend can give an old standby new appeal.
There never seems to be enough time when I get home from work to prepare a healthy, fresh dinner. What can I do beforehand to reduce prep time?
I love to cook once and eat twice, so I always cook double the amount of potatoes, rice or pasta that I need. This means I'll have leftovers to use as a base for a new meal another night.
I’m throwing a dinner party but don’t want to spend a fortune. What’s a good dish to serve?
Well, funny you should ask! My husband and I have two excellent menus that feature a three-course meal and wine for six people for under $100....but then you knew that, didn't you? (Yes we did, we got a sneak peek at Dana and her husband Martin's menus at an event.) It's almost always cheaper to serve slow-cooked, less tender cuts of meat than premium cuts. Stews and braises are a good place to start your planning when a budget is necessary.
I love serving hors d’oeuvres but they always tend to be unhealthy. Any options for healthy appetizers?
Veggies and dip - that classic healthy appetizer - can get so boring! But a mezze platter featuring middle eastern dips such as hummus and low fat tzatziki, grilled veggies, olives and whole grain flat bread can be delicious, nutritious and well-received.
Dana McCauley is an international food trend tracker and the author of five cookbooks. She has been the food editor at several national Canadian magazines. Dana McCauley’s cooking and trend knowledge has been showcased on hundreds of television shows such including The Today Show, CNN, Canada AM, and the CBC News.
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