Hello. My name is Dana and I am addicted to cookbooks. I'm only half joking here. The truth is that I have a huge cookbook collection, and try as I might, it doesn't look like I'm going to stop adding to it any time soon. What I have managed to do is learn to control it some. Read on for a few helpful hints for managing a cookbook obsession.

More

Do you know the quickest way to dull a knife? Turns out there are three. I'm the first to admit I've done two out of three of these things at one time or another, but now I know better — and you can, too! 

More

Maria S.C. Double Test Tubes Chandelier

• $245
• Etsy

I've been on a long hunt for permanent light fixtures in our dining area, and I just ran across these wonderful test tube chandeliers. Up close they have a vintage industrial vibe (test tubes!) but stand back and they're clean, pretty, and modern versions of more ornate chandeliers.

No one intends to waste food, but things happen — an overenthusiastic shopping spree at the farmers' market, an unexpected string of meals eaten out instead of at home, a container of mystery leftovers lurking in the back of the fridge. Fortunately, a lot of food waste can be prevented by integrating little habits into your cooking routine. Not only will you save food, but you'll save money, too.

More

Q: I love making homemade salsa, but when I buy cilantro, half the bunch always goes to waste. I use quite a bit in the salsa, but I just don't know what to do with the rest. Are there any good ways to use the rest up?

Sent by Whitney

More

2012 Frog's Leap "La Grenouille Rougante" Napa Valley Rosé

• $14.99

We drank this wine at a celebratory dinner early this week and oh, people, it's rosé weather. The crisp rhubarb and strawberry flavors are fresh but not sweet; this is a rosé made in the French style. There's just a hint of effervescence too. Delightful, especially for the price!

Q: I am making the Overnight Buttery Streusel Coffee Cake for a brunch I'm having on Sunday. The recipe recommends using Kerrygold Butter, but I'm wondering what other brands people like to use for baking?

Sent by Elle

More

How cute are these fruit-shaped wooden serving boards? They're perfect for small appetizers, with just the right amount of whimsy. (Take note of the painted edges.) And they're made in Vermont!

More

Lifetime Fold-in-Half Banquet Table

• $94.99
• Overstock.com

I needed an extra table for my sister's bridal shower, and so my mom hauled this folding table over. It's not sexy or pretty, but I was super impressed with it. It folds up neatly, and the legs snap in. There's a built-in carrying handle and it was so easy to unfold, fold up, and carry in and out. Lots of us need extra table space for holidays and parties, and I think this is a good solution to fold up and stash under the bed or in the back of a closet.

Let me first say that I'm far from qualified to write on this subject. As you can see, I've got food magazines piling up — soon to overtake the large wicker basket I bought to house them. While I know of schools, libraries, and friends who would gladly take them off my hands, it seems more of an emotional tie than a rational or logical one. When is it time to let go of all these glossy magazines? More

I absolutely love the smooth chicness of anything matte black, particularly in the kitchen. With so much that's already bright and shiny in that room — stainless steel appliances! Shimmering tile! Glossy ceramic plates! — I find matte textures a welcome diversion. They're understated yet still glamorous. Here are a few matte black kitchen and dining things I've had my eye on lately, from a simple faceted vase to a mind-blowing Bertazzoni range. (Guess which one I will not be purchasing anytime soon.)

More

As I was spooning my way through a bowl of strawberry-rhubarb ice cream this past weekend, I got to thinking. Strawberry and rhubarb are old pals, of course, and rhubarb is definitely great all on its own — but there are so many late-summer fruits that totally miss out on the rhubarb party! Rhubarb-peach? Blackberry-rhubarb? I want these combos in my pie! The best solution is to start freezing.

More

I'm married to a scientist, so that fact that I haven't thought of this until now is kind of embarrassing. I currently have a 1000ml Pyrex beaker (well, technically a flask) that I brought home from a wedding. (The bride and groom — also scientists — used them as flower vases at the reception.) I'd been using it as a vase, too, when suddenly it dawned on me. These are actually perfect prep tools for cooking! They're non-porous, heat-, cold-, and crack-resistant, have easy-to-read measurements on the side, and a spout for pouring. So why aren't more people using them in the kitchen? Here are 3 reasons why we should all start: 

More