Culinary Features | Edible Paradise

Welcome to Culinary Features

Shopping at your local farmers market for locally grown, farm fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts is a big step in the right direction toward a healthier lifestyle!

In the Culinary Features section, you’ll find educational resources for cooking and preparation tips, learn how to make pantry staples that are healthier for you at a fraction of the cost of store-bought items, and informative nutrition and health news articles.

How to Make Cilantro Oil

Vibrant, aromatic, and impossibly fresh, this cilantro oil is a simple way to elevate everyday dishes. Drizzle it over grilled fish or roasted chicken, swirl it into a deconstructed salsa, or use it to turn sautéed summer squash into something restaurant-worthy. The bright green color and herbaceous flavor capture the essence of summer—but because it’s...

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How to Make Basil Oil

There are many different methods for making basil infused oil, but I find this one works really well. It produces a deeply colored and flavored oil that will last in the refrigerator for 3-5 days before the flavor begins to drop off. It can be frozen for a month or two without much loss of...

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How to Roast Chestnuts

Few foods say “Fall” quite like roasted chestnuts. Their nutty sweetness and soft, comforting texture make them perfect for snacking on a chilly evening or adding to festive dishes. While cracking into chestnuts takes a little effort, the aroma that fills your kitchen and the warm, tender bites are well worth it. With just a...

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Cooking with Dried Beans: From Pantry to Plate

Dried beans are a cornerstone of every well-stocked pantry. Nutritious, inexpensive, and incredibly versatile, they can be transformed into soups, stews, salads, dips, and side dishes. While cooking with dry beans requires a little planning, the results are far superior to canned beans in both taste and texture. Here are some essential tips and techniques...

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Make Your Own Baking Mix

Baking mixes are a handy pantry staple for quick biscuits, pancakes, or waffles—but store-bought versions can be pricey. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make your own bulk baking mix at home for a fraction of the cost. This homemade version is foolproof, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weekday breakfasts. INGREDIENTS: 8 cups...

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How to Cut and Peel Winter Squash Safely

Peeling and cutting thick, tough-skinned winter squashes can be a real challenge—even for experienced cooks! Here are some practical tips to make the process safer and easier: Removing the stem: Use the back of a sturdy knife or cleaver near the handle, or tap it with a mallet to knock the stem loose. Stabilize the...

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How to Blanch Brussels Sprouts (and Why It Matters)

Brussels sprouts are one of those vegetables that spark strong opinions—but when prepared well, they can be absolutely delicious. Blanching is one of the simplest, most useful techniques to bring out their best flavor and texture. Done correctly, it keeps the sprouts vibrantly green, tender without being mushy, and ready for everything from caramelized side...

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How to Make Pomegranate Molasses

Pomegranate molasses is a staple in Middle Eastern cooking and one of those magical ingredients that instantly transforms a dish. Its tangy-sweet flavor adds both brightness and depth—much like wine does—making it an essential pantry item. Use it to enrich salad dressings, stews, and marinades, or brush it onto chicken, lamb, or pork as a...

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Whole Grains: Flavorful, Nutritious, and Versatile

Whole grains are nutrient-dense foods packed with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They’re also a healthier alternative to refined carbohydrates. If reaching the recommended three servings a day feels daunting, try simple swaps: add grains to soups, salads, or main dishes, or enjoy them as a warm breakfast cereal. Love crunchy textures like popcorn? Many...

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