to cool your punch , float an ice ring made from the punch rather than using ice cubes. Not only is this more decorative , but it also inhibits melting and diluting.

Place fresh or dried mint in the bottom of a cup of hot chocolate for a cool and refreshig taste.

*One lemon yields about 1/4 cup juice; one orange yield about 1/3 cup juice. This is helpful in making fresh orange juice or lemonade.

*Never boil coffee; it brings out the acid and causes a bitter taste. Store ground coffee in the refrigerator or freezer to keep it fresh.

*Always use cold water for electric drip coffee makers. Use 1 to 2 tablespoons ground coffee for each cup of water.

*Seeds and nuts, both shelled and unshelled, keep best and longest when stored in the freezer. Unshelled nuts crack more easily when frozen. Nuts and seeds can be used directly from the freezer.

*Cheeses should be served at room temperature , approximately 70 degree.

*To prevent cheese from sticking to a grater, spray with cooking spray before beginning.

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