• We hope everyone had a great 4th of July! This week we finished up our planning, and if you didn't get enough patriotic eats, be sure to check out this flag cake.
• Speaking of the 4th of July, in this year's competition, American Joey Chestnut defeated Japan's Takeru Kobayashi in the Nathan's famous hot dog eating competition.



• The reality cooking shows are bonkers this week. Alton Brown wishes they could start over on The Next Food Network Star, while Gordon Ramsay gives Melissa another chance on Hell's Kitchen.
• Quite the discussion is going on about whether or not unwanted food should be left for the homeless. Be sure to voice your opinion.
• If you've just kicked off your grilling season, be sure to check out these must have grilling accessories.



• Did your local 7-Eleven turn into a Kwik-E-Mart?
• If you've got a lot of time on your hands, check out this recipe for fresh lime chiffon cake. If you don't then just steal the filling recipe - it takes 3 minutes to make and is well worth it.
• The film Ratatouille is doing well at the box office, but have you ever wondered exactly what ratatouille is?
• Looking for a unique dinner? Try cucumber & apricot sandwiches.
• Friends coming over and you don't know what to make? Get a few tips for a no fail impromptu party menu.
• Finally, we'd like to know, how much do you usually tip?

Baked beans, whether from the South or Boston, are a traditional all-American side. As easy as it is to crack open a can of Bush's, pour into a pot, heat them up, and enjoy, sometimes it's nice to make a delicious batch of homemade (ok semi-homemade) baked beans. These pair perfectly with your standard bbq fare: hamburgers, salmon burgers, ribs, barbecued chicken, or even a nice hearty green salad. Whatever you serve them with, be sure to have a few chilled beers ready and waiting to wash these delicious spicy, sweet baked beans down. You can have the recipe, all you have to do is read more