Sunday, September 19, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Recipes for Less Than $15 :: FRENCH FRY RECIPE!!! Serves 4 !
Oven Baked French Fries Recipe
Serves 4
Ingredients:4 Large potatoes
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. paprika
Pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Prepare the potatoes by washing and peeling them and cut the potatoes lengthwise. Move the baking rack in the oven to the highest position. Pam the baking rack up (not too much). Mix the essentials...olive oil or vegetable oil, salt, paprika and pepper. Put cut up potatoes into the bowl with the aforementioned ingredients and coat the potatoes.
Spread oil coated potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes on top rack of oven. Turn potatoes. Cook an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Recipes for Less Than $15 :: TACO PIZZA RECIPE !!!
TACO Pizza Recipe
Ingredients -
½ lb Vegetarian Sausage (or other kinds of sausage depending on your preference.)
1 ¼ cups cornmeal
2 cups chopped lettuce
½ cup sliced olives
¾ cup water
⅔ cup milk
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 teaspoons baking powder
14 ½ oz can diced tomatoes in juice
1 envelope taco seasoning mix
1 ¼ cups all purpose flour
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar
½ cup sliced green onions
1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
6 oz tomato paste
⅓ cup melted butter
Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Mix together the salt, baking powder, cornmeal and flour.
Add the milk and blend well.
Press this mixture over the sides and base of a 14 x 12 inch baking pan.
Bake for 10 minutes then let it cool.
Brown the sausage and beef in a skillet and drain off the fat.
Stir in the water, taco seasoning, canned tomatoes and tomato paste and bring the mixture to a boil.
Let it simmer for 5 minutes without a cover. Spread this mixture over the pizza crust.
Mix the cheddar with the Monterey Jack cheese and sprinkle 2 cups of this cheese mixture over the pizza.
Bake it for 15 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
Top the pizza with the fresh tomato, olives, onions, lettuce and the last bit of cheese.
(Serves 6)
Healthy Recipes for Less Than $15 :: Flank Steak with Parsley Garlic Sauce !!
Flank Steak with Parsley-Garlic Sauce
Cost: $15.00
Time: 15 minutes
(Serves 3)
Ingredients:
1 1/2 pounds flank steak
Coarse salt and ground pepper
1 tablespoon plus 1/4 cup olive oil
1 to 2 cloves garlic
1 bunch flat-leaf parsley, stemmed (about 4 cups)
3 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
3 tablespoons white-wine vinegar
1/8 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
Directions:
Heavily coat both sides of the flank steak with salt and pepper. Heat up one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook steak for about 5 minutes for medium-rare, few minutes longer for medium. Transfer to a cutting board, let it rest for a few moments and then slice against the grain.
In the meantime, chop garlic until fine. Also chop parsley until fine, add oregano, vinegar, pepper flakes, ¼ cups of oil, 2 tablespoons of water and ½ teaspoon of salt. Serve the mixture over the steak.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
RECIPE : BROKEN NOODLES IN TOMATO SAUCE and RICOTTA MMMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!
Broken Noodles in Tomato Sauce and Ricotta
Cost: $10.00
Time: 10 minutes
(Serves 2)
Ingredients:
4 cups homemade or store-bought marinara sauce
1 package (9 ounces) pappardelle (wide pasta), broken into large pieces or you choose any pasta you like.
Coarse salt and ground pepper
1/2 cup part-skim ricotta
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Directions:
In a large saucepan, bring sauce and 2 cups water to a boil; reduce to a simmer. Add noodles, and simmer, stirring frequently, until tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Season with salt. Serve with a dollop of ricotta, basil, and pepper.
BRAIN FOOD : Good Stuff To Eat For Your Testa
Brain Food
Shelly Ray
Pigs are intelligent animals, but that doesn’t make scrapple brain food. So when you need to rev-up your brain and kick butt in an exam or job interview, try some of these smart breakfast options to pig-out on:
- Peanut butter on wheat toast. Brains love protein and this is the happiest combination of proteins since beans and rice. Together, nuts and wheat complete an essential amino acid strand that makes the proteins easy for your body to absorb and use. Peanut butter also contains health-protective mono- and poly-unsaturated oils. Pair this with a glass of milk or a latte (lean, dairy protein) and prepare to conquer everything.
On the go: whole wheat bagel with peanut butter instead of cream cheese or butter.
- Egg whites, or Omega3 fortified eggs (eat the yolks in these ‘smart’ eggs). Egg whites are one of the most complete protein sources around – with zero fat to boot, and recent studies have found that the B-vitamin, Choline, found in yolks benefits mental function. Even better are fortified eggs, which provide essential Omega-3 amino acids for when you don’t have time to, say, grill a salmon fillet for breakfast.
On the go: egg and cheese sandwich (on wheat if that’s an option).
- Fruit. At home, a packet of a superfruit[SF1] (see sidebar) soy protein smoothie such as Fruitein Exotic Red Fruit Shake (Naturesplus.com) is easy to mix – no blender needed – surprisingly delicious, and supercharged with a bazillion antioxidants (according to our estimates). You can get an even greater protein kick by adding skim milk instead of water. If you do use a blender, add some fresh fruit; berries and citruses provide glucose – which is drained in mental activity – and extra hydration which combats cognitive impairment.
On the go: order a smoothie with fruit and yogurt or nonfat milk, instead of just juice. If add-ins are an option, go for a B-vitamin and/or protein supplements.
PLUS !! Brain boosting tips.
To maintain energy levels and mental alertness all day:
1. Hydrate with plenty of water.
2. Load up on Omega-3 fats (fatty fish, Omega-3 fortified eggs, ground flaxseeds, and walnuts).
3. Eat foods rich in folic acid (spinach, oranges, broccoli, and fortified breakfast cereals)
4. Get plenty of exercise.[1]
II. What are Superfruits?
Fruits such as Açaí, Blueberry, Cranberry, Grape, Guarana, Mango, Mangosteen, Pomegranate are considered ‘superfruits’ because of their high nutrient density and superior antioxidant qualities. To be fair, the term ‘Superfruits’ is a marketing term, rather than a scientific category, but that shouldn’t be held against these nutritious wonders. Medical research evidences high nutrient and antioxidant contents which the potential health properties of superfruits. [SF2]
For more information, see “Wellness Foods Trends 2007,” FoodProcessing.com, November 2007.
Recipe : Broiled Salmon in Spinach and Feta......
Broiled Salmon in Spinach and Feta
Cost: $ 15.00
Time: 15 minutes
(Serves 2)
Ingredients:
2 skinless salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
Coarse salt and ground pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 bags (5 ounces each) baby spinach
1/2 cup feta, crumbled (2 ounces)
1/3 cup pine nuts
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Directions:
Heat broiler, with rack set 4 inches from heat. Place salmon on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Broil until opaque throughout, 5 to 7 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium. Add as much spinach as will fit; season with salt and pepper. Cook, tossing spinach and adding more to skillet as space becomes available, until tender, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat; drain off excess liquid. Stir in feta, pine nuts, and lemon juice. Serve salmon with spinach saute.
MAKE MONEY ! > SEVEN WAYS TO GET A PROMOTION !!
| Make Money! > Seven Ways to Get a Promotion |  |  |  |
| Written by Diana Bocco | |
| Getting to work on time will help you get a raise ....And seven other things that will get you a promotion.... By Diana Bocco 1) Find something that is not working and come up with a creative solution that will mean more money or time or productivity for the company. 2)Stay that extra hour after work if things get tough and papers need to be finished. 3)Start a saving account. Employees with a nice financial cushion can afford to push harder in pay-raise negotiations. 4)Stop complaining out loud. Nobody likes a whiner. 5)Keep an accomplishment log highlighting what you’ve accomplished in the past, as well as goals that can be accomplished in the future. 6)Stay away from questionable websites during work hours. Better off, cut your surfing time to a minimum. 7)Refill the photocopier's paper tray and replace the roll of toilet paper in the office’s bathroom. Your co-workers will like you and word will spread. |
WORK ATTIRE : Info on What's In and What Never Should Have Been.
Work attire: What's in versus what shouldn't have existed in the first place.
How do you navigate the line between too hip and too stuffy in your work wardrobe? We consulted Janis Moore-Campbell, Associate Director at the Center for Professional Development at Temple University, for new ways to bring the traditional professional look up to date.
What's in for girls
1. Headbands. Silk-covered or leather headbands look pulled-together, conservative and stylish all at once.
2. Modest and feminine blouse. Unless you're a flight attendant, a starched white blouse can be a bit harsh. Consider a cream-colored silk blouse instead.
3. Cropped jackets or blazers are perfectly acceptable for work attire.
4. A cardigan and matching shell, with a belt at the waist, is structured enough to replace a blazer in most work environments.
5. Tulip skirt. A slight flare at the hem of a skirt is both classy and modern.
6. Wrap dress. Consider the wrap dress a gift from fashion heaven. With just one
piece, it's easy to wear and comfy all day.
7. Nude nylons. If you're wearing a skirt, nylons are a must, even in summer. While you might want to stick with basic nylons for interviews, it's perfectly acceptable to add some pizzazz with tiny patterns in subdued colors for everyday.
What's in for guys
1. Take it easy on the gel. It's 2010 ... it's time to trash the hair gel. Use a dab of pomade for a look that's combed, under control and not too stiff.
2. Solid tie. Do wear a tie, but don't mess around with patterns. Make it easy on yourself by picking a solid color. Need help tying? Visit: Tie-a-tie.net
3. Mixed patterns. When you're ready to take it to the next level, wear a striped tie with a checked shirt. This look works when the tie and shirt share one shade.
4. Ditch the jewelry. Few workplaces outside of creative fields allow earrings for males. This presents a difficult situation for those who have stretched lobes. You can avoid droopy ears with "hider plugs," which have a matte rounded front made from implant-grade silicone and a hollow back.
5. Flat-front pants. A single crease is all you need anymore.
6. Invest in leather lace ups. Loafers are too casual, wing-tips are often to formal -- lace ups can be dressed up or down.
7. Spit shine those kicks. Guess what? It works. Spit, polish and repeat.
RECIPE :: CHICKEN CLUB SALAD !! DELICIOUS!!!
Chicken Club Salad
Cost: $12.00
Time: 20 minutes
(Serves 2)
Ingredients:
6 slices turkey bacon
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (6 to 8 ounces each)
coarse salt
ground pepper
3 plum tomatoes, quartered lengthwise, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, sliced crosswise 1/4 inch thick, plus 1/2 cup celery leaves (optional)
1/2 cup light mayonnais
1 tablespoon white-wine vinegar
lettuce leaves
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lay each link of turkey bacon on the sheet; bake until it begins to render its fat. Turn bacon over, and slide to one side of sheet. Season chicken with salt and pepper, and place on baking sheet. Bake until bacon is browned and crisp and chicken is cooked through, roughly 15 minutes.
Transfer bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate, and let drain; crumble. Let chicken cool completely. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, celery, celery leaves (if using), mayonnaise, and vinegar.
Cut chicken into 1/2-inch chunks, and add to bowl. Season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Serve chicken salad over lettuce leaves, and sprinkle with bacon.
Monday, September 6, 2010
INSIDE HER MIND !! 17 THINGS WOMEN WANT MEN TO KNOW !! READ ON !!
I love, love, love when you:
1. Do really over the top, ridiculous things for love. Such as that time you ripped flowers out of the planter on someone's doorstep, and handed them to me dirt, roots and all.
2. Listen to me.
3. Give me good advice about whatever work-, money- or girlfriend-related issue is stressing me out. It shows me you're listening, you sympathize and you want to help me get happy.
4. Ask for my opinion.
5. Ask me to dance! When you hold me close and sway, I melt.
6. Wake me up with sex. Good Morning!
7. Get a little jealous of other guys in my life. The key here being "little." I'll pass on the bar brawls, thanks.
8. Tell me your friends think I'm beautiful.
9. Get curious about my past. Some things I'll never tell, but it never hurts to ask.
10. Don't notice my bad hair days or accidentally mismatched outfits.
11. Do notice the good hair days, and tell me when I look great. I need to hear that stuff more often than you may think.
12. Kiss the back of my neck really slowly and softly.
13. Bring surprises. Even small things. My girlfriend still talks about the guy who brought her back a York peppermint patty every time he went out to the store.
14. Dress up. I love your favorite flannel shirt as much as you do (well, maybe not quite as much ...), but do you have any idea how hot you look in a suit?!
15. Want to lock out the rest of the world and spend the day together indoors.
16. Put up with my fussing over menus and food labels. It's just my way of keeping my butt the way you like it.
17. Just call to say you love me. Bonus points when you sing the song, too.
RECIPE : TUNA CAKES !! ENJOY!!
Tuna Cakes
Cost: $14.00
Time: 10 minutes
(Serves 4)
Ingredients:
3 cans (6 ounces each) tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped, plus sprigs for garnish
1/3 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup prepared salsa
Directions:
In a large bowl, stir together tuna, egg, cilantro, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise and lemon juice. (You can also add a drop of your favorite hot sauce.)Mix gently until ingredients just hold together.
Using a packed 1/3-cup measure of tuna mixture per patty, shape into 8 cakes.
In a large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium. Cook cakes until golden brown and crisp on the outside, about 2 minutes each side. Serve hot, accompanied by salsa, and garnish with cilantro sprigs.
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RECIPE :: CHICKEN WITH ARTICHOKES AND ANGLE HAIR PASTA!!
Chicken with Artichokes and Angel Hair !!! ENJOY :)
Cost: about $15.00
Time: 12 minutes
(Serves 4)
Ingredients:
coarse salt
ground pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
8 thin chicken cutlets (about 1 1/2 pounds total)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts packed in water, rinsed, drained, and quartered
2 tablespoons rinsed and drained capers
2 tablespoons butter
8 ounces angel-hair wheat pasta
1/2 cup parsley leaves
Directions:
Set a large pot of salted water to boil. Place flour in a shallow dish, and season with salt and pepper. Toss the cutlets in the flour mix.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken until its golden in color. About 1-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a separate dish.
To the skillet, add the broth and bring to boil, cook until it is reduced in half. Add the artichokes and capers and finally add the chicken cutlets, as well. Once everything is combined add the butter.
Add pasta to boiling water. Cook until al dente; drain. Serve chicken and sauce over pasta, topped with parsley.
Healthy Recipes for Less Than $15 : Beef and Broccoli Stir--Fry
A Week of Health DAY 1
7 Fast & Easy Recipes to Jump Start Your Fit Goals
By Alina Makhnovetsky
Let’s face it. Everyone’s favorite excuses for not eating well usually fall into two categories, “eating healthy is costly,” or “time consuming.” We know you’re busy and we know you’re broke- so, we put together a list of meals that are not only healthy, but also take less than 15 minutes to make and cost under $15.00 bucks! This year skip the excuses and cook up a storm!
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Cost: $13.00
Time: 15 minutes
(Serves 3)
Ingredients:
1 1/4 pounds flank steak, cut diagonally across the grain into 1/2-inch-by-3-inch strips
3 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons apple juice
1 tablespoon of sugar
3 cloves of garlic, minced
ground pepper
coarse salt
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon canola oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 head broccoli, stems trimmed, peeled, and cut into 1/4-inch rounds, florets separated into bite-size piece
2 cups of brown rice
Directions:
Wash the brown rice with water several times. Drain and place in a pot, add three cups of water.
Then in a large bowl, mix soy sauce, apple juice, vinegar, sugar, garlic and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Add the flank steak and toss in the mixture, leave to marinade for a few minutes.
Check on rice and stir, if needed.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over a high heat. Toss in the meat (do not throw out the left over marinade) and cook until lightly brown, turning once. This should be about 2 minutes. Remove the meat then add ½ cup of water to the same pan and stir up any left over browned bits, for this a wooden spoon is best. Pour in the left over marinade and whisk in the cornstarch slowly.
In same skillet, fry broccoli in remaining teaspoon oil over high heat until bright green and crisp, tossing often, 2 minutes. Add 1 cup water; cook until broccoli is tender, 6 to 8 minutes.
Now, stir in the marinade, add to pan, and bring to a boil. Cook, stirring, until thickened, 30 seconds. Return meat to pan; toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Strain rice and plate it, then add broccoli and the steak. Top with the marinade.
Note: Chinese noodles, are available in the Asian section of most supermarkets and are a delicious accompaniment to this meal.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
TOP SEVEN MOST VALUABLE DEGREES !!!
The top seven most valuable undergraduate degrees
By Diana Bocco
If you think you need a decade of studies before you can earn any decent money, think again. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, US Bureau of Labor Statistics, “between 2004 and 2014, almost 14 million job openings are projected to be filled by workers who have an undergraduate degree and who are entering an occupation for the first time.”
1. Computer Specialists $71,500. Computer experts (including programmers, researchers and technicians) who hold an undergraduate degree are expected to have ample knowledge of computer science, mathematics and information systems.
2. Radiation Therapists $70,000. Depending on where the degree is obtained, either an associate (more common) or a bachelor may be needed to graduate. Students take lots of medical classes, including anatomy and physiology, as well as subjects directly related to radiation protection and physics, pathology and imaging.
3. Nuclear Technicians $66,100. The degree focuses on manufacturing processes, product testing, handle radioactive material and monitor radiation.
4. Dental Hygienists $64,700. Aside from a degree, a State license is needed in order to work as a hygienist. Duties (and therefore education requirements) vary by state, allowing some hygienists to administer anesthetics, place temporary fillings and perform periodontal therapy.
5. Nuclear Medicine Technologists $64,700. This is a degree that will allow you to work in laboratories and as a medical researcher assistant.
6. Fashion Designers $62,800. The only creative degree in the top-ten list of better earning occupations, this requires knowledge about textiles fabrics, computer-aided design (CAD), and fashion trends.
7. Commercial Pilots $61,600. Pilots need just two years of college in no particular area in order to qualify for a commercial license. Further training, such as obtaining instrument rating from the FAA, is also obligatory. Those with little previous flying experience may start their careers as co-pilots and flight engineers.
RECIPE FOR LEMON AND BASIL SALMON WITH SPAGHETTI !!!
Make A Gourmet Meal For Friends Tonight,
Tomorrow Let Them Take You Out!
Lemon & Basil Salmon with Whole-Wheat Spaghetti
We know what you’re thinking, whole-wheat pasta? Yes! Combined with these magical flavors, this low calorie dish is as healthy as it is tasty. Invite 3 friends since this recipe serves 4.
1/2-pound whole-wheat spaghetti pasta
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2-teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
1-tablespoon olive oil
4 (4-ounce) pieces salmon
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
3 tablespoons capers
1 lemon, zested
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
Add the pasta and cook until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Drain pasta and transfer to a large bowl.
Add the garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Combine and toss.
In the mean time, warm the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the salmon with salt and pepper.
Add salmon to the pan and cook until medium-rare, about 2 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish.
Then, remove the salmon from the pan.
To the spaghetti add the basil, capers, lemon zest and lemon juice and toss the mixture to combine.
Set out 4 serving plates or shallow bowls.
Place 1/2 cup spinach in each bowl.
Top with 1/4 of the pasta.
Top each mound of pasta with a piece of salmon. Serve immediately.
8 Aphrodisiacs that will "raise up" your relationship to the next level!
| 8 Aphrodisiacs that will "raise up" your relationship to the next level! | | | |
| Written by Lou Perseghin | |
| So, you’re looking for a lil’ boost in the sack. But if the thought of patronizing Condom Kingdom or a doctor’s office (disguised in sunglasses and a coat) leaves you feeling limp, you may want to try Whole Foods or Trader Joes for that pick-me-up you’re looking for. A wide variety of foods and herbs are considered to be aphrodisiacs, a word derived from Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. People have relied on them for years to keep their sex life spicy and their diet balanced. Instead of a menagerie of creams and lotions, the more adventurous person may opt to try something more au-natural to increase their libido. From the commonplace Hershey bar to the overly garish sturgeon caviar, there is a wide array of consumables thought to heighten the sexual senses. While there is some dissent regarding the legitimacy of aphrodisiacs, there is no doubt that many throughout history have valued these “love foods.” For example, some Asian cultures believe that a dried tiger penis or ground-up rhinoceros horn brings users increased virility. While a side of Bengal wang with ones’ dinner seems rather unappetizing (and unpleasant for the tiger as well), there are plenty of other foods that are much more palatable, not to mention available. Below is a list of several foods commonly thought to enhance sexual desire. The best part? Most of them are readily available around Philadelphia. They are ranked in terms of their availability, price, taste and potency, as well as some notes on other intangibles. Why not head to the grocery and try that peach before your third date (wink). It may just bump you up to that next level you’re looking for. 1-5 scale with 1 being the worst and 5 the best Mussels – Some people think that clams are the way to go if you’re looking for a seafood-induced soirée, but others claim that the mussel, which is thought to resemble the female anatomy, is the mollusk that will get the biggest score. Great when cooked with white wine. Most seafood departments carry them, and they are widely available at restaurants. Availability – 4 Price – 3 Taste – 2 (Raw), 4 (Cooked) Potency – 3 Bananas – Aside from the obvious, bananas are rife with vitamin B and potassium, both of which help in the production of sex hormones. Try eating the banana with your lover, as eating alone can feel rather scandalous/sad. Downfalls include flashbacks to that “lesson” your father gave you and the under-the-lunch-table middle school myths. Availability – 5 Price – 4 Taste – 4 Potency – 4 Coffee – All the caffeine is a great way to get up for the bedroom, but too much will leave you bathroom-bound. Best served in small doses, and the darker the better. Unlike the banana, coffee is more of a solo consumable. Think of it as pre-gaming for the pants party. Availability – 5 Price – 4 (depending on the type) Taste – 4 Potency – 2 Caviar – With its high protein content, caviar helps your body stay strong all evening. Caviar is typically enjoyed as a spread, but saltine or not, these fish eggs aren’t going to cut it. Remember that scene in Big where a Susan brings over a bag of “grownup food” and a disgusted Josh spits out the caviar and champagne? It’s kind of like that. Availability – 2 Price – 2 Taste – 1 Potency - 4 Truffles – The ultra-rare delicacies are thought to give added sensitivity to the skin, but like caviar, they’re terribly expensive and almost impossible to come by unless you’re willing to drop some major bank at an upscale joint. That, and when it comes down to it, the truffle is just a glorified mushroom. It’s only really an aphrodisiac so rich folks can justify buying it. Availability – 1 Price – 1 Taste – 2 Potency – 5 Pineapple – Alternative medicine suggests that pineapple can treat impotence, so it stands to reason that it could work wonders for the average guy looking some above-average loving. It’s best enjoyed freshly sliced in the company of your lover. With its high vitamin C content, at least you’ll keep your immune system healthy if you find that pineapple is not for you. Availability – 4 Price – 4 Taste – 3 Potency – 4 Green M&M’s – The myth of the green M&M as a sexual enhancer is purely driven by pop culture, probably stemming from the fact that green is the only color portrayed as a female. However, if you buy into the placebo effect, the wide availability and low cost gives the green ones a taste and effect well above the other 5 varieties. Availability – 5 Price – 5 Taste – 5 Potency – 1 (cynics) 4 (optimists) Spanish Fly – An episode of Beavis and Butthead in which the boys spike a carton of milk with Spanish Fly boosted the stock of this green beetle. Despite the myth, this aphrodisiac actually causes urinary irritation, not sexual arousal. Best used as a novelty or reference and not in actual practice. Availability – 2 Price – Unknown Taste – 1 Potency – 1 |
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BEST DATE SPOTS IN PHILLY AND DC!!
| Most Romantic Dates in Philly and DC | | | |
| Written by Rachel Vigoda | |
| Rachel Vigoda Perfect Dates Grabbing a slice of pizza or hitting up your former roommate’s girlfriend’s cousin’s house party is all well and good for a regular night, but won’t make much of an impression on a potential love interest. Whether you’ve finally worked up the courage to ask out that hot girl in your biology lab, or you and your boyfriend have been together since high school, score points with unique date ideas that get you away from campus. A few suggestions sure to impress are below. Philadelphia Marrakesh Dim lighting, exotic tapestries, low, plush cushions to sit on, shared platters of hot, sweet food, not a utensil in sight…Restaurants don’t get much sexier than Marrakesh, a Moroccan treat tucked away on 5th and Leithgow Streets, just off South Street. Prepare to spend at least two hours lounging and enjoying the six-course pre-set menu. Impress your date by knowing you have to knock on the door upon arrival and wait to be let in. Price: 4 Service: 5 Romantic Setting: 5 Morris Arboretum Every now and then even the most ardent urbanite needs to leave the skyscrapers and honking horns behind. Make the most of a sunny afternoon by heading to the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, a serene 92-acre park made up of gardens, streams, winding paths and sculptures, plus a low-key café. Skip the tour and wander with your date on your own meandering timetable. Located on the northern edge of the city, the arboretum is easiest to get to via car. Admission is free for Penn students with a PennCard. Price: 2 Peacefulness: 5 Romantic Setting: 5 Max & David’s Kosher dining doesn’t immediately bring romance to mind, but who can argue with inventive, delectable dishes (that just happen to meet with a Rabbi’s approval)? Located in Elkins Park, Max & David’s serves internationally styled cuisine, from Turkish lamb meatballs with pomegranate and pine nuts, to chicken in penang curry. It’s a BYOB; wine must be kosher. Download a list of suggested bottles at www.maxanddavids.com. Price: 4 Service: 4 Romantic Setting: 3 Mutter Museum Billed as “disturbingly informative,” the Mutter Museum in Center City gives you and your date the chance to test your tolerance for all things creepy and bizarre. Bond over display cases containing sliced sections of the human head, a piece of John Wilkes Booth’s thorax, a 7’6”-tall skeleton, and an exhibit on Siamese twins. Bring your student ID to save $4 off admission. Price: 2 Romantic Setting: Questionable North Bowl Knock out a strike -- and revel in those ugly shoes -- at North Bowl, a retro bowling alley/bar/restaurant in Philadelphia’s Northern Liberties neighborhood. Nosh on tasty tater tots prepared with a variety of accoutrements, washed down with $2 Pabst. When you’re finished at the lanes, test your skills at one of the vintage arcade games or challenge your date to a round of pool. Price: 3 Service: 4 Peacefulness: 1 Washington, D.C. Love Café The name says it all. An unpretentious, WiFi-equipped eatery on the corner of 15th and U Streets, Love Café is perfect for couples looking to snack on tempting treats from famed bakery Cake Love (located down the street) while kicking back in a low-key setting. You can even design your own cupcake at the cupcake bar -- and what’s sweeter than that? Price: 2 Romantic Setting: 2 Peacefulness: 3 National Museum of Crime & Punishment Practice your aim in the National Museum of Crime & Punishment’s Wild West-themed shooting gallery, then check out the displays on criminals from Medieval times through today. Head over to the interactive Computer Hacking and Safe Cracking exhibits and see which one of you is better suited to a life of crime. The museum is located on 7th Street between E and F Streets. Price: 4 Romantic Setting: 1 Etete In a city chock full of Ethiopian restaurants, Etete stands out with authentic, spicy cuisine and a chic-yet-cozy setting. The dishes, which are shared, are eaten by scooping up stews and sautés with crêpe-like bread, rather than with utensils -- creating an exotic dining experience for two. Ample options are offered for vegetarians. Price: 2 Romantic Setting: 3 Service: 4 DC by Foot This isn’t your parents’ walking tour. DC by Foot hits all the highlights -- the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and more -- without a hint of the cheesy spiels you had to sit still for in elementary school. Instead, guides entertain you and your date with funny historical anecdotes and irreverent tidbits. Best of all, it’s free (tips are accepted). Tours begin near the Washington Monument at the north corner of Constitution Avenue and 15th Street. Price: 1 Service: 5 Miniature Golf East Potomac Park is a great spot for a picnic or stroll, but did you know there’s also a mini-golf course touted as the oldest continually operating course in the country? Relive childhood by spending an afternoon on the (mini-) links surrounded by scenic cherry trees. The closest Metro station is Smithsonian. Price: 1 Peacefulness: 3 Romantic Setting: 3 + |
Vegetarian Hotspots in Philly!! The Best Veggy Place The ILADELPH Has To Offer!
| Vegetarian Hotspots | | | |
| Written by Shelly Ray | |
| Philly’s an eatin’ town. But what if you don’t eat meat? Our resident vegetarian gets her healthy grub on. Can you ever have too many orders of fries? Most Philly vegetarians would say yes. I’m here to help—I’ve compiled a list of the five best veggie-friendly spots in Cheesesteak Land. If you’re still on the brink of veg but just can’t get over the weirdness of tofu, do yourself a favor: read the ingredients on a package of scrapple. Pig hearts, brains and intestines are listed, but what are those other “byproducts” they don’t name? Are you ready to make a reservation yet? 5. Vesuvio 1 . Horizons Café736-49 S. Eighth St. 215.922.8380 The food at Vesuvio is top notch, but they’re at number five because the menu isn’t exclusively vegan. The veggie burgers you enjoy five nights a week get classed up here: it’s grilled and topped with pickled long hot peppers, caramelized onions and spicy mayo (they’ll hold it if you ask). You can choose smoked gouda, provolone, Monterey jack or soy cheese. The pasta dishes are rich and creative, but most sauces are cream-based, so vegans beware. 4. Su Xing House 1508 Sansom St. 215.564.1419 A direct quote from Su Xing’s menu: “Go vege for a healthy lifestyle, an ad on the subway train indicates.” I’m sold. This new Chinese spot offers free delivery and BYOB service if you dine in. The menu relies mostly on mushrooms and tofu, which makes it ideal for faux meataphobes. Check out the glutinous rice roll if you’re into mortal-sin-delicious stuff: it’s tofu sheet filled with glutinous rice, black mushrooms, peanuts and vegetables. Su Xing’s winning feature? The lunch specials. The 35 choices each come with a choice of soup, side dish, and rice, and all are priced under seven bucks. 3. Kingdom of Vegetarians 128 N. 11th St. 215.413.2290 Being able to choose chicken, beef, duck or seafood off a menu for the first time in 10 years was weird, but super tasty. Hot and sour soup could sub for the real thing in any of the five billion Chinese takeouts in Philly. (That’s a good thing, really.) The portions are huge—a friend and I split the Kung Pao chicken, and there were still leftovers. But the Kingdom truly rocks the competition with the most attentive water boy this side of Broad Street. If your glass has less than five inches of water, I think you get a free dumpling or something. 2. Govinda’s 1480 South St. 215.985.9303 Depending on the time of day, you have two options at Govinda’s. Before 5 p.m., the ground-floor Gourmet to Go heads in the vegan cheesesteak and hoagie direction. Meatless meatball subs, tuna sandwiches and smoked ham and cheese are among the offerings—all are vegan. After five, go upstairs for their famous buffet. The dishes are mostly curry-based, but the flavors come out more varied than you’d expect. But here’s the golden rule: eat dessert first. If you get an overstuffed sandwich or hit the all-you-can-eat, you’re not going to have room for vegan lime cheesecake, lemon raspberry tart or tofu pumpkin pie after. Don’t take that risk. Heed the rule. 611 S. Seventh St. 215.923.6117 I convinced two committed carnivores to try Horizons with me with the still-unfulfilled promise that I’d eat at Pat’s with them. (Haha, suckers!) The word? “Hands down, knock-down, drag-out , the best meal I’ve ever eaten. Not the best vegan meal. Best. Meal. Ever.” Start with the international olive platter, then try the sopa de tortilla, ancho chile glazed-seitan steak atop a stew of pintos, avocados, zucchini and roasted corn. (I think I just short-circuited my keyboard with drool.) On the dessert menu, the hot chocolate cake is deceiving. I had this image of chilly days and mugs with marshmallows on top. But the hot in this cake is actually the coconut chipotle ice cream. It will be the perfect exotic end to the tastiest meal you’ll ever have—and nothing furry has to die. |
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