L.A. Watts Times: Food

(ARA) - Summer brings a welcome change in temperature, extra hours of sunshine and the fresh fruits and vegetables from the farmer's market we've been craving all year.

(ARA) - Peruse the dishes featured in America's top restaurants and epicurean magazines and it's easy to see that culinary trends this year are focusing on refreshingly bold flavors and natural ways to sweeten dishes. This movement has motivated home chefs to experiment in the kitchen with innovative ways to enhance the flavor and nutrition of their favorite recipes.

(ARA) - As more of us shop for green products and make wiser energy choices -- and increasingly have to watch our budgets -- buying in bulk is becoming a popular option. Bulk products reduce the amount of waste going into landfills and take less energy and other resources to produce while offering shoppers lower prices.

(ARA) - At the dawn of summer, people spend more time outdoors and start planning barbecues, pool parties and picnics. But as the mercury rises, thoughts turn to lazing in front of the air conditioner instead of being out in the searing, sticky heat. With a little creativity, you can entertain outdoors while keeping cool this summer.

(ARA) - When it comes to having friends and family over for summer gatherings, our first thoughts often turn to late afternoon barbecues with sizzling burgers, plastic cups and paper plates. If that's your idea of outdoor entertaining, maybe it's time to get out of the house!

(ARA) - If there ever was a love/hate relationship for the record books, it's the relationship between a pregnant woman and food. On one hand, it's a time when food cravings go on overdrive, and the body shouts "More, more, more!" On the other hand, certain foods can trigger discomforts such as nausea, causing a "Less, less, less!" reaction. Here are some common myth busters about pregnancy and nutrition.

(ARA) - Skyrocketing gas prices and escalating grocery costs have put getting more for a dollar top-of-mind for many consumers. Many Americans are tailoring their grocery shopping lists to ensure they get more bang for their buck. That means purchasing items that provide the best nutritional punch for their value.

(ARA) - Whether we want to be reminded of it or not, it's that time of year again. The calendar provides a grim reminder that swimsuit season is just around the corner. Inevitably, that familiar panic sets in. But getting ready to slip back into your suit and out into the sun may be easier than you think.

(ARA) - Registered dietitians and other health care professionals recognize soy for its nutritional benefits. Soy offers an excellent source of cholesterol-free, low-fat protein and is gaining more acceptance in kitchens across America.

(ARA) - A popular TV commercial for an office supply store depicts a dad gleefully dancing through the aisles, filling his cart with back-to-school bargains while a singer croons "It's the most wonderful time of the year" in the background. But when it comes to back-to-school grocery shopping - and especially breakfast shopping - you may find yourself feeling less than wonderful.

(ARA) - We all know that fruit is good for you, but did you know that California peaches, plums and nectarines are good sources of vitamin C?

(ARA) - Are you planning on travel for your summer vacation? Thanks to the rising cost of oil, this summer many Americans will be staying close to home rather than purchasing expensive plane tickets or spending a small fortune on a road trip. Instead, people are expected to invest in upgrades to their outdoor living space at home.

(ARA) - There are a million things to think about when you begin planning a wedding. There are the big things like booking the reception site, the church, the DJ, and, of course, finding the dress. But once those are out of the way, there are little details to think about, such as a theme, the flowers, the centerpieces, linens, invitations, champagne glasses and countless other things.

(ARA) - When it comes to favorite tastes, our sweet tooth always wins. That is why it is not surprising for people to indulge in their favorite desserts, candies and beverages on a regular basis, despite knowing that all of those sweet calories eventually add up.

(ARA) - A lively backyard barbeque is the quintessential kick-off to warm-weather months, but it's not always the most nutritious way to celebrate. With the right mix of fresh and tasty ingredients, it's possible to create savory grilled specialties that will enliven guests' taste buds without derailing their efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

(ARA) - Many gardeners who love their ornamental landscape are not sure if they want to give up space for a vegetable garden that needs to be replanted every year. Fortunately, there are dozens of incredible edibles that add beauty and style to the garden -- and provide a bounty of fruits and herbs.

(ARA) - Summer is the perfect time to bring together family and friends to enjoy the outdoors. Dust off the grill, lay out a fresh blanket and enjoy delicious food while soaking up the sun with the ones you love.

(ARA) - When summer's heat is upon us and friends and family come together for backyard gatherings, you could serve the traditional iced tea and lemonade along with basic burgers and brats, or you could mix things up with some summer fusions.

(ARA) - Many families will be gathering this summer to share traditions and make new memories. More than seven out of 10 people agree that the best way to continue their family's traditions is through gatherings and celebrations, according to a new survey by Kelton Research. With each passing year, however, 68 percent of Americans admit reuniting with family is becoming harder. To ensure that your family continues to build lasting memories, a little early planning goes a long way.

(ARA) - Humans are not the only ones who look forward to summer. Imagine warm weather from your pet's perspective - long walks in parks full of green grass and interesting aromas for dogs, and hours of bird-watching from a sunny window for cats. It's also fun for pets to be part of the festivities when their human "parents" do some summer entertaining. However the definition of a party for a furry friend is very different from that of its care takers.

(ARA) - What's more American than firing up a pyramid of pillow-shaped charcoal briquettes in the backyard grill in anticipation of a lip-smacking, smoky-tasting summertime barbecue?

(ARA) - The idea of customization is nothing new; American diners have always been inclined to make their own choices when it comes to what goes into (and on top of) their entrees. But as more and more restaurants make the idea of customization their focus, the trend is making its way into our homes at a rapid pace.

(ARA) - Spark up the coals and break out your tongs, it's grilling season. While traditional barbeque continues to be a summertime favorite, the latest Weber GrillWatch survey reports that more than 39 percent of grill owners are firing up more meat substitutes, vegetables and leaner meats in an effort to eat healthier.

(ARA) - Top off your Independence Day celebration this year with Wave the Flag Cupcakes for everyone.

(ARA) - Summer is the perfect time to bring fun, family and friends together. Whether it's for a neighborhood pool party, backyard barbecue or brunch on the patio, people gather to experience the food and flavors of the season. The right refreshing dessert is sure to impress your guests and end your summer soiree on a deliciously high note.

(ARA) - The warm weather is here and the summer party season is just getting started. This year, don't just throw another blasé barbecue or an average pool party for your friends and neighbors - here are four ideas for unique summer soirees that will make a splash:

(ARA) - Remember when dorm food meant cooking on a hot plate? Times have changed. At many colleges, school-sponsored housing means a furnished apartment with a full kitchen -- and the opportunity to eat healthy.

(ARA) - It is often difficult to prepare a nutritious breakfast when your mornings are already short on time. But you may want to think twice before skipping the meal altogether.There's ample evidence to show that eating a nutritious, balanced breakfast is a must if you're trying to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

(ARA) - The beginning of the summer brings to mind bare feet in the grass, running through sprinklers and eating cherries with juice dripping down your chin. California Bing cherry season is short, so the time for delicious fun with cherries is now.

(ARA) - Long overlooked, mushrooms are nature's hidden treasure for helping those focusing on living a healthful life. To promote the nutritional benefits of fresh produce this back-to-school season, Weight Watchers continues Pick of the Season, a public health initiative spotlighting seasonal fruit and vegetables, with recipes this quarter for mushrooms, a produce selection so versatile it can add flare to any every day meal.