My friend Rochelle  just returned from two weeks in Bali. In addition to riding elephants and surfing, she took aBalinese cooking class. The herbs are very similar to what are used inThai dishes – lemongrass, galangal, Kaffir limes and leaves, red chile paste, etc. Not only are they healthy, but have healing qualities too. I use this combination of herbs in Tom Ka Gai soup along with mushrooms and chicken, and my boys love it. Healthy and healing herbs makes a good recipe. Thanks Rochelle for the great tip! Bon Appetit.

Best pancake mix on any grocery store shelf.  Safeway carries Kodiak Cakes mix all the time, but  keep them on the bottom shelf. I am trying to get them placed in a more prominent location! 140 cals for two cakes. Yum

This is one of my favorite salsas. I use this on my chicken enchiladas and chilaquiles. With only five calorie per two tablespoons go ahead and splurge!

Lovely texture and no sacrifice in taste. Trader Joe’s offers their Reduced Guilt line which includes frozen fish entries, chips and other yummy snacks. Check our deals often for coupons for these items.

Thank you Jessica Seinfeld! Deceptively Delicious is one of my favorite cookbooks. You quickly learn to prepare,puree and portion veggies to add to most any recipe. Sounds great right? Well it’s even easier than you think. My friend Susan uses baby food in her recipes. Already pureed, and each jar is a 1/2 portion. So, no mess, no freezing baggies of pureed veggies. Use these veggies to replace oils  in muffins, deviled eggs, or chicken nuggets!

The best salsa in a can. Taste is tangy, juice is light and bite size pieces of tomatoes, chiles and onions. Love this on egg whites and nachos.