Sunlight doesn't ripen tomatoes, warmth does. Store tomatoes with stems pointed down and they will stay fresher, longer
Place green fruits in a perforated plastic bag. The holes will allow air to circulate while retaining the ethylene gas that fruits produce during ripening.
To rid fresh corn of those pesky corn silks, brush the shucked, but unwashed, ears of corn with a soft vegetable brush or bunched up paper towels.
To quickly seed a cucumber or large zucchini, cut them in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds with a small spoon.
Peel tomatoes or pearl onions quickly by dropping them in a pot of boiling water (15 seconds for tomatoes and 2 minutes for pearl onion); drain and slip off skins under running cold water.
To soften dried tomatoes, cover with water and microwave on HIGH for 2 to 3 minutes.
When chopping raisins or other dried fruits, wet your knife for easy chopping.
To get more juice from a lemon or lime, first roll the fruit on the counter, pressing down slightly with the palm of your hand.
Try using carrots instead of sugar to sweeten your sauces. |
