Making Better Choices At Seafood Markets

Seafood markets are chock full of any number and variety of fish and seafood options. For the average consumer, it may be confusing trying to sort out the freshest fish to buy from such a large number of choices. However, with a little help from your senses, like your sense of smell, touch and sight, you can weed out the highest quality fish for a delightful meal. Here are a few pointers on what to look for when buying fish.

Shellfish, such as lobsters crabs, as well as fish are sold at seafood markets live, cooked, frozen or fresh shucked. It depends on availability and the shellfish itself as to which is available. It can vary widely as to whether the animal is alive or dead at the time of purchase. The shells of live mussels, clams or oysters must be closed. If the shells open slightly, tap them. If they do not close, discard them. Their odor should be sweet and mild, without any fishy smell.

Buy only what you will use within one day or at most a couple of days when buying from seafood markets, unless you plan on freezing some of it. Choose fish seafood that is without blemishes and with the outside skin firm that springs back when touched. The smell should be subtle like salt water. If it has a strong fishy smell, then it is not fresh. By using your senses, you can choose the freshest specimens every time.

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Seafood And Fish Are Healthy Choices

A healthy diet should include fresh seafood and fish, and when prepared to perfection, fresh seafood can inspire you to choose to eat a seafood diet every day. Seafood contains omega-3 fatty acids that are good for your heart and have been shown to aid in reducing circulatory problems and high blood pressure.

It is so much healthier for you than eating red or white meats. When dining out, choose a seafood restaurant. For home cooking, there are many websites dedicated to seafood recipes that can help you integrate more fresh fish into your diet.

The best and easiest way to cook seafood and fish is when it is still frozen. If you do thaw it out before cooking it, then make sure it is cooked immediately upon thawing. It can never be refrozen.

Many people prefer the fish that is cooked on the grill. Wrapping fish seafood in foil will help to keep it moist and will lock in the flavor and it can also be cooked in a frying pan with butter or oil, or baked or broiled in the oven.

A smart and healthy way to take care of your body is to choose a diet with lots of fish and seafood. Scallops and mussels are good sources of iron and zinc. If you just can't stand the thought of eating fish, or you are allergic to it, another option for you is to take fish oil supplements.

The benefits are greater though if you consume the real thing. Fresh seafood and fish are low in fat and high in protein. By eating seafood on a regular basis, you can enjoy its many health benefits.

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Gourmet Foods To Excite The Palates

Taste hunters jet-set around the globe in search of new gourmet foods to excite the palates of the discerning food connoisseur. Each local area has its own special spices, fresh-grown produce and regional favorite foods.

In this global economy, these foods are now spreading from remote parts of the world to the United States. This top-notch category of foods is comprised of the best quality, most advanced preparation methods and the most aesthetically pleasing arrangements. For consumers who carry a penchant for good food, gourmet fare is second to none.

Snacking has never tasted so delicious and exotic. Artisan condiments have become extremely popular this year. California producer Robert Lambert has unleashed a product line of exotic products like five marmalade, salt-preserved lemon and coconut dark chocolate sauce.

Similarly, gourmet salsa comes in flavors like peach rum, whiskey peppercorn, artichoke, black bean dip, mango burst, and chipotle pineapple and garlic cactus at Gourmet Mike's. The Italian Livio Pesle Company offers artisan gourmet foods condiments like Chimichurri Jelly, Bloody Mary Ketchup, Lemon Lime Fish Sauce and Cosmopolitan Cocktail Jelly.

Healthy foods are definitely the way of the future, gourmet foods experts agree. Tea offers a healthier alternative to the coffee we're all so addicted to. New innovations in flavor, anti-oxidant properties and forms ("tea sticks" or green tea mints) are credited with driving the renewed interest. Flavored water has fostered a lot of intrigue as well. Food snacks, like dried fruits and vegetables are replacing candy in many lunches across America too.

Allergy-free, sugar-free, gluten-free, peanut-free or dairy foods free, there are more and more products designed to meet the demands of a health-conscious society. Supplements from now foods are another emerging trend as people make wheat grass "wellness" smoothies and keep track of their omega-3 and omega-6 intake.

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Chocolates For Gifts

Even though most people today think of chocolate as a quite delicious, albeit a very common, treat, not as many people are aware that there was a time and place when chocolate was considered to be a "food of the gods" or to be a healing remedy. In various ancient civilizations, primarily in Central and South America, chocolates were not for the common man, but were reserved for special uses and special people.

It doesn't matter if you prefer dark chocolate, milk chocolate or white chocolate, or if you prefer your chocolate plain and pure or combined with other delectable ingredients, such as nuts, raisins, fruits or flavorings.

If you love chocolates, then there are products on the market that can entice and captivate. Much to the delight of many chocoholics, there are even more choices today, thanks in large part to the internet.

One problem that people run into when they try to order chocolates online or through a catalog is the seasonal weather conditions. Some chocolatiers will simply not ship their chocolate creations during the summertime, while others will ship during summer but only by using specially chilled and insulated containers, and only via overnight delivery, making it an expensive proposition.

But the good news for the northern hemisphere is that Christmas chocolate gifts can be sent to those on your Christmas gift list without any problems or concerns.

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Live American Lobsters

The state of Maine actually contributes more than half of all lobsters caught in the United States. The American lobster, also known as Maine lobster, is native to the waters between Canada and North Carolina.

It is easily set apart from the spiny lobster. The spiny lobster has tiny claws and the American lobster has large, heavy claws. Lobster has a sweet and delicious flavor and mouth-watering texture that makes it the world's most prized catch.

Right after lobsters molt, they are fragile and soft until their new shell has hardened. Molting is the process by which a lobster sheds its shell in order to grow larger. A soft-shell or new shell lobster is one that has recently molted. The quality and price of soft-shell lobster is less on both counts when compared to hard shell lobster. They have less meat and the texture of it is softer than hard-shell meat. For those reasons, soft-shell lobster is less expensive.

Maine lobster is not only great tasting, it is really healthy. Of course, too much butter can negate any health benefits, so go easy. It's hard to believe, but live Maine lobsters have less calories, cholesterol and saturated fats than lean beef, pork or skinless chicken.

It is a fantastic source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proven to reduce the hardening of the arteries and to lower the risk of heart disease. High in amino acids, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, vitamin A, and many of the B vitamins, lobsters are truly a wonder food.

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The Lobsters In Your Local Restaurant

A lobster is an ocean-dwelling crustacean that is related to the crab, the crayfish and the shrimp, and lobsters are caught in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. While they are often marketed and sold alive, their meat is also available canned and frozen.

There are many different kinds of lobsters, with the most popular being the American lobster and several species of spiny lobsters. A spiny lobster is also known as a rock lobster or marine crayfish. The lobsters that are the most commercially important are also the most expensive.

A disjointed shell covers the head and fore-section of the lobsters' body. In the head area, the lobster has a pair of compound eyes at the ends of jointed and movable stalks, with two pairs of sensory antennae. Five pairs of legs grow under the fore-part of the body. In the American lobster, the first pair has evolved into large, pincer-like claws used to crush prey.

American lobsters, such as Maine lobsters, live in the cool waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. They inhabit sandy, muddy and rocky areas of the ocean bottom from Virginia in the United States to Newfoundland in Canada. Spiny lobsters are found in warmer waters throughout the world and live in coral reefs, on rock ledges and in crevices. The areas they choose to live in protect the lobsters from enemies.

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Hard Candy In Your Gift Basket

There are special aspects and traditions that help make Christmas wonderful and memorable, such as spending hours and hours wandering through the malls and shops to find just the perfect Christmas present for each person on your list, thoughtfully wrapping each gift and tucking it beneath the Christmas tree, holiday travel, and family and friends gathering around a dinner table laden with favorite foods.

But for many people, Christmas would simply not be complete without the inclusion of special Christmas hard candy in their stocking. The Christmas candy cane has to be one of the most common kinds of hard candy that is seen during the Christmas holiday season.

There are giant striped peppermint canes that almost seem too heavy to lift and tiny candy canes that easily pop right into the mouth whole, and just about every other size and flavor combination in between. In addition, candy canes often serve as decorations in retails shops, malls and homes wherever you go.

These days, many gourmet gift baskets will also include some of the more popular types of hard candy, as well as gourmet chocolates, truffles and other tasty treats. These types of gift baskets can be a wonderful Christmas gift and will appeal to just about anyone who has fond memories of sweet Christmas treats.

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Dark Chocolate For Valentines Day

There is no better gift for Valentines Day, than dark chocolate. Have there ever been times in your life when you gobbled down some wonderful gourmet chocolates that you were given as a gift or just bought for yourself?

If those fine chocolates happened to be dark chocolate, then you might have done your taste buds a disservice by rushing through them. The thing is that you can get much more enjoyment from dark, rich chocolate if you eat slowly. You can give a box of gourmet dark chocolates to your sweetheart on Valentines Day and you may even share the chocolates, by eating them slowly.

It is best to eat any kind of fine chocolates, and especially dark chocolate varieties, only after they have warmed to room temperature. If you have received gourmet chocolates that were shipped in a cooled container, or if you put them in the fridge to keep them fresh, then you should remove them from their chilled environment and be patient as they warm, and enjoy the anticipation of your first taste when the time is right.

There is very little that can compare to the experience of slowly relishing and being able to sense the exquisite layering of flavors that is especially unique to dark chocolate treats. By taking the time to truly luxuriate in the sensations of dark chocolates, you will discover many nuances and subtle flavors that you simply won't find in other varieties, such as sugar free chocolates or chocolate candy bars.

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Lobster For Dinner

If the idea of cooking a lobster dinner seems daunting and impossible, then think again. The two main factors that discourage preparation at home seem to be the fact that lobsters need to be prepared and eaten the day of purchase, and they must be alive immediately prior to cooking.

Don't let that discourage you. The following is a short guide on how to choose, handle and ultimately eat lobster. You'll be eating well without going to a seafood restaurant to do it.

A fish market will typically contain a salt water tank filled with live lobsters from which you can choose a tasty specimen. The freshest and healthiest tend to be the most active crustaceans in the tank. To keep your lobster alive and strong, make sure you take him home immediately and cook him the same day. Tender meat can be found in arthropods that are between 1 1/2 to 2 pounds.

Live lobsters are easy to cook, and now you know how simple the boiling method is. While they may be broiled or grilled, they are also delicious when just boiled or steamed. Boiling is probably the simplest method. To enjoy your lobster dinner, you need only melted butter as an accompaniment.

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Seafood Restaurants With A Daily Menu

For those living on the coast, eating at seafood restaurants may be as simple as walking a few steps away from their door. Yet, what are those who are not lucky enough to live near the ocean to do when they want a delicious and fresh seafood meal?

Give Red Lobster a try. Their daily menu includes seasonal and traditional items as well as a variety of fresh fish of the day. Living miles from the coast or a fresh water lake does not mean you need to sacrifice freshness or taste.

Their seafood restaurants offer their Today's Fresh Fish Menu each day. Outstanding offerings of fresh fish from local markets, like rainbow trout, halibut, Great Lakes walleye, tilapia, mahi-mahi and Atlantic salmon top the menu and can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as grilled with a sweet and spicy glaze, blackened with Cajun spices or grilled and lightly seasoned. With so many fresh seafood choices, you are sure to find something delicious.

With their traditional seafood menu items, bold and exciting new grill choices and fresh fish of the day, the chain of Red Lobster seafood restaurants are the only choice when it comes to fresh seafood. Living far from the coast does not limit your choices, variety or convenience. Be sure to check out their expansive offerings today.

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Gift Basket To A Best Friend

The custom of sending a gift basket to family and friends is not a new practice. Since the beginning of recorded history, baskets filled with everything from toys, produce and wine have been sent as gifts.

For example, there is the Old Testament story of Moses' mother putting the infant into a wicker basket and hiding it among the reeds. There was the pagan goddess Eostre who carried young plants as a basket gift for a sacred offering.

It can be difficult coming up with an idea for a gift, but if you have been invited to a housewarming, for example, then consider putting together a gift basket. You can include wine and perhaps cheese and crackers and consider adding a bottle of sparkling grape juice if they have kids, so that they will not feel left out. Perhaps add a few handyman do-it-yourself home repair books or something similar.

No matter what the occasion, presentation can be a big part of how well the gift is accepted. That is one reason why a gift basket is such a good idea, as it is part container and part gift. For instance, if you need a great gift for a baby shower, then creating a baby gift basket is a thoughtful gift that they will enjoy.

You can use a sturdy wicker basket and line it with a soft baby blanket, and if you have the creativity and time to knit or crochet one then by all means do so. If not a store bought soft blanket is fine.

You can even make it a bath time basket by getting a hooded towel or two to line the basket and several small washcloths in different colors all folded up, then perhaps add some baby bath wash, baby powder and different lotions, a few sleepers and a few diapers, and you are done.

Don't be worried about getting too much of one thing; extra's will always be welcomed. With just a little thought you have come up with a baby gift that they will love.

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Giving A Food Gift Basket

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.

You may think that giving a food gift means putting together a gourmet food gift basket or something similar. However, you can put a gift together that shows you took the time to make it especially for them, without worrying that you are spending too much money.

If you have a coworker that is British, then gather some different flavored teas and scones wrapped in pretty tissue paper. If you have a really great cookie recipe, then get the ingredients together and put them inside an old milk bottle or mug.

Putting together gift baskets for friends and relatives is a great way to show them how special they are to you. It is not necessary to make a huge gourmet gift basket, since a few simple things can be placed together, such as your favorite gingerbread recipe wrapped around a jar that is holding the main ingredients.

Giving a food gift of this type is always appreciated and when you include recipes or ingredients that are needed, it makes it that much more meaningful.

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Chocolate Chip Cookies For Special Events

It seems that for the vast majority of people, within the recesses of their minds are many deep and strong memories of things that are associated with the foods, flavors, tastes, and aromas of their childhood. It has long fascinated researchers that people can access long-forgotten memories when they catch a whiff of a special scent, such as warm chocolate chip cookies; smells that are associated with a time in their youth.

As they bake to that perfect golden brown, it is more than just the wonderful smell of the those cookies, which are chock full of so many dark chocolate chips that start running together as they melt from the heat of the oven. No, there is much more to the experience than that for most people, and that whiff of chocolate chip cookies can bring it all rushing back in an instant.

While there are many wonderful chocolate gifts, treats and delights, from gourmet chocolates to boxed chocolates truffles, for many people nothing can compare to a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie straight from the oven. Such cookies are not only filled with chocolate, nuts, and other special ingredients, but are also often packed with love and treasured memories as well.

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Hot Chocolate Warms Your Winter Chills

Most people in just about every corner of the world take pleasure in sitting back with a nice warm mug of hot chocolate at some time or other during the course of a year. While some enjoy the warm chocolate drink often, others only imbibe occasionally, perhaps as the weather turns cold or as the snow begins to fall. For many people, sipping some hot, steaming chocolate is the only way to take off the chill and get warmed up from the inside out.

There are also many people who are convinced that hot chocolate is very good for them and that it has some wonderful health benefits, or at the very least can lift and lighten their mood. And, there are countless people who particularly enjoy the warm chocolate drink not only because of the marvelous flavor, but also because it is associated with so many great memories of childhood.

When using a hot chocolate machine, the person making the liquid treat doesn't have to deal with boiling water or heating the milk and taking the chance of scalding it and ruining the batch.

With these machines, you just add the proper amount of water or milk, add the chocolate syrup, chocolate bar, or cocoa mixture and simply allow the machine to do everything else. In short order you will have a wonderful hot cup of chocolate to sip, without the mess.

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Chocolate Chip Cookies Are Delicious At Any Party

Have you ever seen the pictures of those perfect chocolate chip cookies in your favorite recipe book, or on display plates in a candy store window?

Have you longed to be able to produce such a marvelous looking and tempting plate of homemade cookies for your family, neighbors or friends? Consequently, have you ever been disappointed to discover that the cookies that come out of your oven never quite look as inviting and enticing as the pictures or store cookies do?

But, the fact of the matter is that how your chocolate chip cookies look, as compared to professional photographs in a magazine or book, is not nearly as important as how they taste. Add to that the fact that your kids will remember the loving good spirits and the fabulous aroma emanating from the kitchen much longer than they will remember how those cookies looked.

The remedy for this common problem is to bake the cookies about two minutes less than what the recipe calls for. You might need to experiment with a batch or two to get just the right size of dough drops and time, but with a little patience you will end up being able to produce endless batches of soft, warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies that people will be fighting over.

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