To clean and store lettuce heads properly, start by sharply striking the center core of the head on the edge of a counter thus breaking it free from the leaves. Next run scalding hot water in to the opening left by removing the core. Dump out the scalding water and repeat the scalding rinse 3 or 4 times. Let the cleaned head drain onto a paper towel for 30 to 60 minutes. Lastly, dampen a clean wash cloth with cold water and ring out the excess. Place the wet wash cloth in a properly sized zip lock then placing the head with the core opening setting on the wash cloth. Keep the zip lock sealed tightly and refrigerate when not serving...in or out of the crisper...makes no difference. Prepare to be amazed at the longevity!

Swap instant mashed potatoes for flour to whip up smooth, creamy, gluten-free gravy. Whisk ½ c. potato flakes into 4 c. hot chicken/beef broth and boil 1minute, let stand 5 minutes to thicken.

Hello when cooking or baking for diabetics you have to use the sugar substitutes. Most of the time when a regular recipe calls for 1 cup of sugar you will have to half the amount of sugar substitutes and use only 1/2 cup, otherwise the item will be too sweet and leave a bitter taste behind. You can always use either honey or brown sugar as well since they are pure sugars but check with your doctor or your dietitian just to be on the safe side.

Weekend pancakes are fluffier when you omit the salt and use club soda for half the milk to make the batter. The carbonation in the club soda gives the extra lift to the cakes.