Food and Drink

The first rule of drinking on a diet is: Don't. Surely you've heard that Americans get way too many calories — and nutritionally empty calories at that — from alcohol.

During "happy hour" at the Summer Winter bar in Burlington, Mass., the bargain is on the bivalves, not the brews. That's because Massachusetts legislators passed a law in 1984 banning bars from offering cut-price drinks.

TORONTO - Tightening purse strings and eating healthily are on the minds of many now that the holidays are over. Toting your lunch to work or school is a way to achieve both of those goals.

Allow me to confess right at the start — this is not your grandfather's Reuben sandwich. The legendary Reuben of yore was built on corned beef, but I swap that out in favour of smoked salmon.

I'm always searching for ways to make a healthier version of risotto, one of my favourite winter Italian dishes. Risotto traditionally is made with starchy white rice. That starch is essential to producing a creamy, thick risotto.

TORONTO - Couples seeking to stray from wedding traditions may want to consider noshing on a coffee shop favourite instead of nibbling on cake at their reception.

If you think you've done nearly everything a cook can with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, it might be time to talk turkey.

Much as I love mashed white potatoes, my favourite "potato" is the sweet variety. I've been cooking and eating sweet potatoes as long as I can remember.

TORONTO - An increase in gluten-free cuisine that has fabulous flavour is going to be a big trend in 2013. Quince and cauliflower should be on your radar, along with finger limes and such delicacies as octopus and grits.

Everybody loves French onion soup, and with good reason.