Have you ever thought to yourself, I could really use a cocktail right now, only to realize that your liquor cabinet is empty except for that random bottle of Amaretto? Instead of running to the corner store or the nearest bar, take a tip from the Spanish and make kalimotxo. While the name sounds exotic, the ingredients — coca-cola and red wine — are probably already in your kitchen. I know you're thinking: coke and wine? How could that possibly be any good? I too, thought that when I first heard of kalimotxo, however once you taste it, you'll love it! With the coke bringing out a spicy quality to the wine, the surprising combination is refreshing and satisfying.

Making kalimotxo is also a great way to use wine that's a couple days old. It's so easy to make it practically doesn't need a recipe, but I've put one together anyways. Check it out now and read more

In this week's issue of New York magazine, singer, songwriter, and actress Mandy Moore not only discusses her upcoming album and newlywed life, but she also rolls up her sleeves to learn how to make ricotta gnudi and deviled eggs in the kitchen of West Village gastropub The Spotted Pig.

While there, Moore shares the dishes that she grew up on, her goal to throw a dinner party with friends, and her love for the Sham Wow. Although a slideshow of action shots reveal her unfamiliarity with cooking, she admits to enjoying food.

I like eating. I admire people with that talent, you know, someone that can walk in, take ingredients out of the fridge and just sort of whip something up. Or just to innately know, like, how you hard-boil an egg. That's something I would have to Google.

Despite Mandy's lack of kitchen knowledge, there's something endearing about her earnest attempt to make gnudi from scratch. Are you surprised that she's trying to learn how to cook?

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Kick start your holiday weekend with a crowd-pleasing steak dinner. The simple glaze comes together quickly thanks to pantry staples like grainy mustard, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flanks. Select a cut of meat, such as flank steak, that cooks in under fifteen minutes. The rich sweetness of the sauce complements both the meat and asparagus, so coat liberally.

Pour a fruity red wine and let the celebrating begin! Sound like fun? For the recipe, please read more

The clear Summer sky inspires a Memorial Day look that is bright and crisp. Start by covering an outdoor table with a plaid tablecloth. Serve the steak and potatoes on one big platter family style. Plastic reusable plates are best for the backyard because they won't break. Keep napkins and utensils simple. When served in a big glass bowl, the jewel punch is festive and inviting. Hang a string of lights from the roof or between trees. Don't forget lots of unscented white candles and to fill a vase with a beautiful bouquet of fresh-cut flowers.

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I'm always on the look out for new gift ideas because it's nice to give something other than a candle. When there's not enough time to make an edible treat, I like to give girlfriends and couples this fabulous Champagne stopper. It's incredibly useful and not an item most people already have.

Oh and did I mention it's affordable? At $7.00 a pop, it's hard to believe this stopper was specially crafted for the Bubble Lounge. It keeps bubbly fresh for days and fits easily in a utensil drawer. The stopper would make a great party favor, addition to a goodie bag, or thank-you for a bridesmaid. Pair with a bottle of bubbly and you've got the ultimate hostess gift! What's your favorite little gift?