Do you remember the Diet 7Up Taste Challenge Kit I told you guys about a few weeks ago? Well mine arrived yesterday, and we decided to put our tastebuds to work immediately. When I opened the box I was greeted with 2 sets of instructions (I think this was a mistake), a coupon for a free 2-liter bottle of Diet 7Up, a can of the new Diet 7Up, a can of Sprite Zero and a ridiculously banged up can of Sierra Mist Free. The instructions said to refrigerate the sodas for at least an hour before tasting, but they arrived ice cold - the same temp as the sodas in the fridge - so we dove straight in. I thought that the Diet 7Up we had in the fridge was different, so I ended up throwing that into the mix as well.

I poured each drink into red party cups labeled A, B, C and D - set them out and let everyone taste. No one knew which was which (except me), so there would be no bias. Out of the ten people who participated, 5 liked A the best, 3 for C and 2 for D. To find out what was in each cup, read more

Having a wide assortment of snacks is a great idea for a bachelorette party not only because you have something to munch on while you mingle, gossip, and open gifts, but also so there are leftovers when you come back hungry and tired after a night of dancing and drinking. I'm planning Julie's bachelorette party (no I am not her maid of honor but who ever is should take a look at this week's party!) complete with a strip class and the usual ladies night out revelries. Some of the savory finger foods have meat and others are vegetarian friendly, but one that all the girls will be able to nibble on are the sweet bars I'll be making: a delicious chocolate caramel shortbread bar with three yummy melt in your mouth layers. Even if you aren't hosting a bachelorette party anytime soon, this is a great recipe to have in your repertoire so get reading now and read more

There's something about summer that just makes me want to eat pasta shells combined with fresh ingredients. After checking out a bajillion sites, this recipe for Pasta Shells with Italian Tuna, Grape Tomatoes & Baby Spinach is still sticking with me. I think I just found tonight's dinner. - La Mia Cucina

Midori is a green melon flavored liquor that is used as an ingredient to enhance cocktails. Alternatively, midori can shine on its own as it does in the classic Midori Sour. A sorority girl's easy to drink cocktail, the Midori Sour is a refreshing summer drink. I usually can't drink more than one, but if you are in need of a quick cocktail while you're sitting in the sun, this is a great choice. Oh and the color makes for an electrifying, fun addition for a tropical or rave themed party. Get the recipe, read more

Do you slurp your pasta? I know I'm guilty of it, something about it just seems so much fun. The folks behind the advertising of Germany's Mondo Pasta seem to know that too. They've used the slurping idea to create one of the most clever ad campaigns I've seen in a while. These giant faces have been pasted onto sides of ships in Hamburg, Germany and the ropes that come out of their mouths is supposed to represent Mondo Pasta. It's slightly disturbing to look at, but I really like the concept.

Source: Spluch (Thanks to GeekSugar for the tip!)

Okay, just a reminder, American Idol creations are due today! So if you wanted to do something, you've still got time, just get it in by today.

To participate all you have to do is come up with a dish that makes you think of American Idol. It can be a cocktail, a dip, a full dessert, anything. If it makes you think of Idol then serve it up!

Here's how you enter:

• Write about your creation by Tonight (be sure to include a link to this here post). If you don't have a blog, you can always sign up for a TeamSugar account and post it there.
• Send me an email by Tonight (the roundup will be posted on May 11 May 18) with the following information:

  - Your name & location
  - Your blog name
  - Permalink for your post
  - What you made and why
  - A 100x100 pixel image of your creation (optional)

Send the emails to yumsugar[at]gmail[dot]com with the subject "American Idol Creation" (or send an PM or use the contact form, or put it in the comments) - I can't wait to see what you guys come up with! I'll post the full roundup on May 11th May 18th.

YumSugar Out!

Image Source

So you were just asked to be maid of honor at your best friend's wedding and are horrified at the thought of planning her bachelorette party. Well have no fear all this week I'll guide you through the steps of creating a memorable and wonderful send off for your bff. Start by picking a date and sending the invitations. Next decide on the activities (I chose a stripping class and lingerie shower) and plan a menu of delicious appetizers. Earlier today I wrote about the vegetarian friendly finger foods and right now I'll reveal the recipes for the meat-lovers' hors d'oeurves. All of the appetizers are healthy, but a little heavier in order to soak up the large quantities of alcohol that will be consumed during the course of the night. So please read more

Oh my, aren't these cupcakes adorable? Yes, I just asked you if a food was adorable, and the thing is, you know you're saying yes. You can make them yourself if you want they're Bri's Banana Peanut Cupcakes and you can top them with crumbled Oreos if you're up to it. While you're there be sure to read about her encounter with baker extraordinaire, Dorie Greenspan. - Jumbo Empanadas