Just type in the promo code 4HOME to get 15% at Macys.com.

You can also get this great discount for in store shopping with this print out Macy’s coupon.

Mm! Wouldn’t you love to get a bite of that above? Here’s my easier-than-it-looks recipe for bite-sized stuffed mushrooms. Perfect to make with day old crusty bread.

What’s great is that you can make this out of whatever is lying around the house. I’ll throw in left over sausage and day old bread, let’s not waste!

Ingredients: to make 6 stuffed mushrooms

• 6 bite sized mushroom caps (washed/stem removed). I like to buy “baby portobella’s” at Trader Joe’s, but you can use crimini or even white mushrooms.
• 1 can of diced tomatoes or 2 fresh (roma) tomatoes diced
• 4 leaves fresh basil, or 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 sweet or hot Italian sausage (optional)
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 1-4 cloves garlic, depending on how
• 6 inches worth of day old bread. (about 2 fist sized rolls), cubed
• your favorite hard cheese (parmesean, asiago, fontina, or all of the above)
• Secret ingredient: 1 tablespoon of ketchup (shh! don’t tell anyone)

Directions: A cast iron skillet works best, but your average frying pan will do!

1.  Saute onions, in olive oil until they become translucent. Add garlic now if you want the taste to be mild. A pinch of red pepper flake is optional here if you want a kick!
2. Take sausage out of the casing and brown with the onions.
3. Toss in diced tomatoes and herbs. and let it simmer for 5 mins. Salt and pepper to taste now. I like using white pepper rather than black. Add garlic now, after the simmer is over,  if you want the taste to be sharp.
4. Mix in cubed bread, let it soak up the tomato sauce over low head. Stir in the ketchup and mix well.
5. Scoop the mixture into the caps of the mushrooms, pack it into little mounds.
6. Pop them in the over for 10-15 minutes at 300*F (you just want the mushrooms to sweat and become softer).
7. Remove from oven, garnish with shredded cheese and basil leaves.

Enjoy!

Discounts on Disneyland tickets are usually only 5% off when you buy a package, but this deal can get you a ticket for 100% off. How? Southern California residents can buy 2 Disneyland tickets for the price of 1. It works like this, buy 1 ticket for Disneyland and get another day free for the California Adventure park! The offer is called the“2fer” cheap Disneyland ticket deal and you have to buy the ticket before you arrive at the park. One caveat, you have to come back to visit on a different day for the discount Disneyland ticket. And you also need to buy the ticket before you get to the park. Here are some places to get it: Disneyland Resort Hotels, Vons stores, Southern California Disney Stores, South Coast Plaza Disney Desk and Disneyland.com.

More Details after the jump.

Offer extended! Southern California residents can buy a “2Fer” ticket that features admission to Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure on two different days, for the price of a regular 1-Day park admission!

The “2Fer” ticket provides one admission to Disneyland and one admission to Disney’s California Adventure, on two different days. The special ticket is available at Disneyland Resort Hotels, Vons stores, Southern California Disney Stores, South Coast Plaza Disney Desk and Disneyland.com. It costs $66 for guests age 10 and older, and $56 for guests age 3 to 9.

2fer Tickets are valid for Southern California residents within ZIP codes 90000-93599 and Northern Baja California residents within ZIP codes 21000-22999. Proof of residency required for admission. Admission valid for one day at Disneyland park and another day at Disney’s California Adventure park, but not for both parks on the same day.

Tickets are valid 30 days from first use. First use must occur between 1/07/08 through 5/22/08. Each day of use constitutes one full day of use. May purchase up to eight tickets per person per day with valid ID. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial use. Offer may not be combined with other discounts or promotions. Offer not valid before 1/07/08. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.

Southern California 2Fer Park Hopper Ticket

Upgrade your 2fer Ticket! For $25 more, you can upgrade your 2fer ticket to a 2-Day Park Hopper. Visit both parks on the same day for two days. Ticket rules are otherwise the same as for the 2fer Ticket. You can purchase the upgraded version for $91 (adults) or $81 (kids) at Disneyland.com. If you’ve already purchased the regular 2fer and want to upgrade, take your 2fer Ticket to a ticket window at the park.

*In case this deal is already over, click on the coupon code below to get $10 off at a Disneyland hotel, when you book on Travelocity.com:

Vacation_Save $10 when you book 2+ nights at a Disneyland hotel with a ticket purchase! > PROMO CODE: DISNEYLAND10

Caviar is great for entertaining, but bad for the pocketbook. Fortunately, Asian style “caviar” or fish roe are much more affordable. This is an impressive yet budget conscious recipe that guests are sure to love. Plus, it’s easy to make! If you enjoy Americanized sushi, such as the California Roll, you are sure to love this.

The delicate tobiko flying fish eggs are gently nestled on a bed of creamy wasabi-hinted avocado, atop lightly toasted warm pita which makes it finger friendly. I was inspired to create this recipe after Yuki, my mother in law, introduced me to the many uses of Mentsuyu, or seasoned soy sauce that makes the base for many Japanese style noodles like udon and somen.

Make sure the Tobiko you buy is fresh and doesn’t smell fishy. Compared to Beluga caviar, which can run up to hundreds of dollars an ounce, Tobiko is much more affordable. A 1/4 cup sized container will probably cost you under 5 bucks. Plus Tobiko has a brilliant orange huge that looks much more appetizing than the dark grayish tinge of other fish eggs.

Ingredients (makes 18 appetizer servings)

• 1 Avocado
• 1 teaspoon Mentsuyu (somen/udon noodle soup base, and can be found in Asian Markets). Can be omitted, but substitutions include soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
• 1 package Tobiko flying fish roe. Capellin or Salmon roe can be substituted. Or, if you’re not down with fish eggs, try lump crab meat.
• 1/2 teaspoon Wasabi paste. Use the pre-made kind in a tube to make your life easier.
• 3 Pita Breads

Directions

1. Half avocado, remove pit. Scoop out flesh with a spoon.
2. Dice avocado meat and place in a bowl.
3. Add Mentsuyu and wasabi. Gently old ingredients into avocado.
4. Toast pita bread until light golden brown on the edges. Make sure it does not get too crispy, otherwise it will compete with the delicate texture of the Tobiko.
5. Cut toasted pita bread into 6 equal triangles.
6. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of avocado mixture on each pita, topped with a half teaspoon of tobiko. (more or less depending on how generous you feel!)

Pair this with sparkling sake from Trader Joes.
Enjoy!

Photo by Schussat @ Flickr

Consider this oxymoron: you eat a low fat, low carb, health conscious diet but yet you use non-stick cookware? I’ll tell you why non-stick is bad for your health, how to choose good cast iron cookware and the proper care instructions (how to season cast iron).Use of non-stick cookware on a daily basis poses many longterm health risks (see NY Times story) that range from inhalation of cancer causing fumes to toxic ingestion of Teflon coating. Cast iron cookware is an excellent alternative that provides the same non-stick benefits and better results with your cooking due to the metal’s heating properties.

Lodge Logic 12-Inch Pre-Seasoned Skillet $14.99 @ Amazon.com

Another great thing is that cast iron does not need to be expensive for it to be high quality. Lodge makes excellent cookware for roughly $15 for a skillet. But you can buy cast iron much cheaper, I purchased mine on sale at Macy’s at an amazing deal of $9 for 3 skillets in small, medium and large sizes.

Photo by SereneJournal @ Flickr

Benefits of Cast Iron

Using cast iron is also an excellent way for vegetarians and anemics to prevent iron deficiency, as a trace amount of the essential mineral is absorbed into the food. Cast iron is also capable of reaching high temperatures safely, unlike pans with non-stick coatings, which begin to break down around 300 Degrees. This makes cast iron a very convenient piece of cookware that can easily transition from stove, to oven, and serving plate.

Your cooking will also drastically improve. If you have ever tried to cook a steak in a non-stick pan, you probably got a very charred outside, with near rare interior. This is because most non-stick pans have uneven heating due to the metals used in their construction, which causes the outside of food to burn and barely heat through the middle. Cast iron is known for it’s superior heat retention, and provides a wonderful sear and caramelization for grilled meats and makes the perfect vessel for slow cooked foods such as chilis and stews. Another cast iron item I strongly recommend is a cast iron grill pan, which you can use on your stove stop. The results are close to that of a real outdoor grill and it makes a convenient indoor grilling alternative.

Photo by Crystl @ Flickr

How to Season Cast Iron

Cast iron does require a bit of maintenance, but as most of the finer things in life, it is worth the effort! Cast iron must be “seasoned”, which is basically a process that strips the metal, covers it with a layer of fat, and then bonds this fat to the pan. The result is a natural non-stick coating that also protects the pan from rust. Some pans come “pre-seasoned”, but even these will need to be refinished eventually. Everyone develops their own style of seasoning, and you will too. But here is an easy method to begin with:

1. Use a metal scouring pad, hot water, dishsoap and elbow grease to srub all residue or previous seasoning off the cast iron. New cast iron is usually shipped with a thin layer of wax, this needs to be removed before use.

2. Dry the cast iron very well. Rub a thin layer of Crisco (or other source of highly saturated oil such as coconut oil) all over the cast iron. You may be cringing at the thought of using “bad” fats, but keep in mind this step creates the nonstick coating so you won’t need to use oils when cooking. Non-hydrogenated vegetable oils work for this step also, but not as well. A paper towel helps to get the grease rubbed in well to the nooks of the pot.

3. Stick the cast iron into a 300 degree oven and bake for about one hour. Put the cast iron on the top rack and line the bottom rack with aluminum foil to catch an oil drippings. When finished, let cool and you will have a newly seasoned pan! Some people like to repeat this process a few times, especially with a new pan.
After repeated use, the cast iron will obtain a glossy dark non-stick finish. The seasoning process should be repeated about once a month, more or less depending on how often you use it. Basically, if you feel your food begins to stick, just re-season. When washing the cast iron after use, do not use dish soap! This might sound gross, but it’s really necessary and it will break down all your hard work seasoning the pan. Try to clean the pan while still warm, run under some water and use a towel or sponge to lightly scrape excess food bits and char off. If your cast iron is well seasoned, the cooking residue should wipe off easily with a wet paper towel (just like a non-stick pan!).

Check out an assortment of cheap cast iron cookware here: Cast Iron @ The Good Life Store

Cast Iron Cooking for Dummies $13.59 with Free Super Saver Shipping

For the Carnivore whose only food group is “meat”:

It’s time to graduate from their George Foreman grill. Get them a “smokefree” indoor grill with enough wattage and heat intensity to give their meat a good sear and actually brown (unlike that weird grayish tone that G.Foreman grilled meats tend to take on). This grill is very easy to use and clean, meat lovers will surely use this everyday. No more need for pots, pans, or even serving dishes–this little gadget cooks up everything so deliciously that the food won’t even make it to a plate.
Indoor Grill $39.95 with free shipping! at Shop the Good Life

For Someone Who thinks they Know Everything

Trivia buffs will thoroughly enjoy these books by former Vogue food editor and frequent Iron Chef judge Jeffrey Steingarten. This man takes his gastronomic quests very far as he searches the world for the best or most authentic versions of global cuisine. Each quest is a scientific and gluttonous case study, which he obsessively probes to the most precise details. For example, Steingarten asserts that espresso must be made with a specific amount of atmospheric pressure, or else the cup is all but ruined! Do you know what this amount is? Leave a comment if you are one of the enlightened ones!

Books by Jeffrey Steingarten $10.85 each @ Shop the Good Life.

For Friends with a Sweet Tooth:

Candies and chocolates are a safe default gift because everyone loves them! But after receiving multiple holiday baskets (aka the 10 lb corporate plague), the concepts gets a little old. To keep things interesting, give an assortment of imported Japanese sweets that are both intruiging and tasty!
Japanese Sweets Assortment $37.58 at Shop the Good Life

For the Alcoholic Friend (we all have one, ha!)

I kid, I kid! Public Service Announcement: Alcoholism is a serious issue that should not be taken lightly. But for those of you that can handle your liquor responsibly, an at home brewery kit is a pretty novel gift. Chances are, even someone with everything has never received something this. This gift has the initial wow factor and can lead to good times down the road. Wouldn’t it be awesome to break out a bottle of your own lager at the next barbecue?

Beer Making Kit $29.99 at Shop the Good Life.

For the Corporate Slave (akaCaffeine Addict)

Enjoying (or maybe tolerating–for those of you that have seen the light and switched to espresso) a few cups of drip coffee during the day are one of the few creature comforts that are socially acceptable, and encouraged, to bring to work. Sorry, I know your boss is mean, but please leave the security blanket at home. I really hate how my cup goes cold just a few minutes after I get it all nice and steamy. Solution: a cup warmer that keeps the mug and it’s contents nice and toasty. Might seem a bit superfluous, but I can assure you than any overworked employee will welcome this gift with open arms.

Mug Warmer $14.95 @ Shop the Good Life

For the Frequent Traveler

They love to travel but hate to live out of a suitcase. Help them organize their necessities in a stylish and useful way with washable travel bags labeled for their particular purpose.

Travel Bags $10.19 at Shop the Good Life

For the Hostess with the Mostess:

Entertainers out there love to wine and dine their guests, but many fear that awkwardness that can result from the botched opening of a wine bottle. Have no fear, an automatic wine opener is here. Makes an excellent conversation piece as well and looks so snazzy.

Automatic Wine Opener $29.99 at Shop the Good Life.

Good luck to everyone with their last minute holiday shopping!

As a convenient service to our readers, you can purchase many of the items featured in this blog at Shop the Good Life. We have tried our best to handpick the most interesting, unique, and useful products of interest to our readers. New items are added regularly, check back often for weekly updates to our product lines.

If you already have an Amazon.com account, you can use that same login for check out at Shop the Good Life. And many items qualify for free shipping. Get all your holiday shopping done at one stop at: Shop the Good Life.

If we do not currently carry something you are looking for, you can browse all goods carried by Amazon.com by clicking on the link to their main site in the upper left hand corner of Shop the Good Life.

If you have any comments, suggestions, or requests for new products to carry, please leave a comment below. Thanks and happy shopping!

“Thanksgiving” by Norman Rockwell

Throw out the old notion that white wines go with white meat. While a good rule of thumb for beginners, it really does not work for all food pairings. This rule can be (or must be) broken, especially when dealing with the hefty texture of turkey and its traditional side dishes. Certain whites can actually be uncomplimentary to turkey meat, making some reds a better match. I have categorized my wine picks in order, from the safest to more adventurous.

The Crowd Pleaser – NV Brut Rose, Domaine Carneros by Taittinger

When in doubt, choose sparkling wine, especially if you have an unconventional mix of potluck side dishes. Brut Rose styles are especially suited for a variety of pairings, and the acidity levels with the natural carbonation will cleanse the palate between bites. In this particular wine, the fruity character is especially predominant and many people find this easy to drink. The saturated pink color is also very appetizing, but do not be deceived. This is not a sweet with and is very dry. Received 93 point rating by Connoisseur’s Guide to CA Wine. Visit their Chateau style vineyard in Napa if you have the opportunity. $36.00 @ www.domainecarneros.com.

Creature of Habit – Kalyra Chardonnay, Santa Ynez Valley 2006

Photo by Yvonne T. @ Yelp

If you must pick a Chardonnay because that is what you are familiar with, choose one with minimal buttery oak influence. Unfortunately, this is the style of most Californian Chardonnays. You want an acidic Chardonnay that will cut through the richness of the meal. My recommendation is This wine is fermented in stainless steel barrels (as opposed to oak). The result is refreshing and lets the natural crispness of chardonnay shine. The natural fruit flavors of this variety peak through in a very subtle way and mesh well with seasonal herbs and spices. If you are accustomed to drinking Californian Chardonnays, you will probably assume this is a Sauvignon Blanc (which is also a great choice for turkey). I should also note that this winery was featured in the movie Sideways. $18.00 @ www.kalyrawinery.com

The Rebel – Campion Pinot Noir, California Central Coast 2005

This Pinot Noir with low tannin levels with complement turkey meat without overpowering it. Although this is relatively young for a red wine, this Pinot Noir is has a pleasing aftertaste of more expensive wines due to the colder conditions of the 2005 growing season in the region. An easy drinker for all occasions, it will convert even non-red white fans. This winery is exclusively devoted to Pinot Noir production in the terroir style. So if you are a fan of French Burgundy reds, this is a like-styled wine at a fraction of the price. The only caveat is that it can be hard to find, but it is ready to drink now if you can get your hands on it. No need for further aging, but if you can restrain yourself from opening it ASAP then I applaud your discipline. The wine will only improve in the next few years. Note that this is the Central Coast bottling, not the Sonoma version. My personal choice to drink with turkey. $23.00 @ www.klwines.com

Sweet Tooth – Marcarini Moscato d’Asti, Piedmont (Italy)

Turkey is served on special occasions, so let’s imbibe with a little irreverent indulgence. Yes, Moscato is traditionally a dessert wine but this particular one can transition well from aperitif to main course to dessert. It has quite a bit of effervescence that lingers, which is very refreshing and palate cleansing. The fruit notes are not overpowering but create a gentle reception for the flavors of your food. It is sweet, but not syrupy–much like biting into a fresh pear. The result is an elegant sweetness with gentle acidity plays well with other flavors in the meal such as cranberries, oranges, and carrots. Although an unusual paring for your turkey dinner, it can be quite successful. Unfortunately, this is another very difficult wine to find on the mass American market. Check your local boutique wine merchant for better luck. $13.79 @ www.thewinebuyer.com

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!