GH - Jan/Feb 2023

ACROSS GENERATIONS SPREADING KINDNESS

24-hour odor protection with pure, gentle ingredients.

Ivory Gentle Deodorant is pure, nature-inspired and gentle on skin. Made without Aluminum, Talc, Baking Soda, Parabens or Phthalates, Ivory has been trusted for generations to provide gentle care for your skin.

Dermatologist-tested Ivory Gentle Deodorant aluminum, talc, baking soda, parabens or phthalates. Visit Ivory.com

WHY IT EARNED THE GH SEAL

“Good Housekeeping Institute Lab experts were impressed by Ivory Gentle Deodorant and its pleasant, mild scent including lavender, coconut, and aloe. Clinical studies showed that it controlled odor for up to 24-hours after underarm application and it was gentle on skin.”

– Danusia Wnek, Chemist, Health, Beauty & Sustainability Lab

January/February

FLOWER POWER

For a long-lasting arrangement, include some buds that haven’t fully opened. You can watch them blossom from day to day!

Winter Blooms

The centerpiece featured on the cover is surprisingly simple to assemble. Place a cylindrical glass vase in a trifle dish and fill in the space between the two with small citrus fruits like clementines or mandarins. Add water to the vase, then fill it with flowers. “Start with the largest blooms and those with sturdy stems like peonies and tulips,” says GH Visual Styling Director Lis Engelhart, who styled the cover. “Then fill in with delicate smaller flowers and greenery.”

Maidenhair fern

Ranunculus

Fringed tulips

Peonies

Iceland poppies MAKE THE COVER

Collard Greens

Unlike spinach or kale, these sturdy supersize leaves can be cooked for a long time without losing their structure (and are also great raw!). Here are our Test Kitchen’s favorite ways to enjoy them:

STEWED GREENS & TURNIPS

Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes in Dutch oven on medium. Add 1 onion (chopped); sauté 5 min. Add 12 oz white turnips (cut into 1/2-in. pieces), 3 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce, 11/2 tsp kosher salt and 1 cup water; bring to a boil and simmer 5 min. Add 1 lb collard green leaves (chopped; about 7 cups) and 1 cup water and simmer, tossing to help wilt. Simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, 50 min. Stir in 1/2 tsp cracked pepper.

CREAMY SLAW

In large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup each mayonnaise and buttermilk, 1 Tbsp each cider vinegar and whole-grain mustard, 1 tsp pure maple syrup and 3/4 tsp kosher salt; stir in 1/2 small Vidalia onion (thinly sliced) and let sit 5 min. Thinly slice 1/4 cabbage (about 8 oz, cored) and 1 bunch collard greens (stems discarded, leaves about 12 oz total). Add to dressing and toss to combine.

CHICKEN SALAD WRAPS

Bring large pot of water to a boil. Add 2 tsp kosher salt, then 8 collard green leaves; cook 30 sec. Immediately transfer to ice water to cool, then dry. In bowl, combine 3/4 cup Greek yogurt, 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard and 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper. Fold in 2 scallions and 1/2 cup dill (both chopped), then 4 cups shredded chicken breast. Lay collard greens on work surface. Divide chicken salad and 1 mango (sliced) among them and wrap like burritos.

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The Benefits of Eating More Produce

Are you veggie-curious? GH’s Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Stefani Sassos, says eating less meat can do a world of good. Here are three ways:

GOOD FOR YOUR BODY

“Research consistently shows that a diet rich in plants is associated with reducing the risk of several chronic diseases,” says Sassos. A meatless diet (or one with less meat) can transform your health by lowering your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers. It can also slow cognitive decline and potentially boost fertility.

GOOD FOR YOUR WALLET

Falling in love with the produce aisle can have a positive impact on your bank account too. “Meat and animal-based products tend to be the most expensive items on the grocery bill,” says Sassos. “Opting for plant-based proteins like

legumes can help you stick to a budget.” One study in the Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition found that people could save as much as $750 a year by adopting a plant-based diet.

GOOD FOR THE PLANET

Even if you take the personal benefits out of the equation, meatless living has a massive do-good impact. “When it comes to the environment, cutting meat from your diet can significantly reduce your water footprint,” Sassos says. Producing a single pound of beef, for example, reportedly slurps up 1,800 gallons of H2O. Also, the raising of livestock creates greenhouse gases and is a leading cause of deforestation.

Start the year with healthy habits!

For more veggie-forward recipes, tips for better sleep, easy exercise routines and more, join GH+ at goodhouse keeping.com/go/join and download our exclusive 8-Week Healthy Habits Plan. Other membership perks include the chance to be a product tester, unlimited access to exclusive recipes developed by the GH Test Kitchen and much more.

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of New England. From quaint island villages to the scenic beauty of the coastline, summer in New England is a delightful experience. Enjoy a local Lobsterbake, indulge in the area’s rich maritime history, and witness magnificent mansions of the Gilded Age. Be welcomed back to the comfort of your sanctuary aboard the ship and enjoy the warm camaraderie of fellow guests and crew.

Your New England Explorer Cruise Includes:

 11-days/10-nights on board the ship

 An exploration of 10 ports of call, with guided excursion options at each

 All onboard meals, breakfast room service, and our signature evening cocktail hour

 Full enrichment package with guest speakers and nightly entertainment

 All tips and gratuities

fond farewell

Every month I receive at least a handful of reader letters, and whether the message is positive (loving that latest issue!) or a plea for change (the tiny text is too hard to read?!), many of you mention how long you’ve been fans of Good Housekeeping. A surprising number of you have been with us for many years — if that’s the case, you might recognize one of GH’s icons, Ellen Levine, from when she ran the show around here.

If you do remember Ellen, you might recall her can-do mindset, astute observations and love of anything colorful! Ellen was also an outspoken advocate for women, their health and their families’ well-being — which continues to inspire us today in our coverage of topics like mental illness, heart health (page 46) and real-life stories of learning, loss and joy (page 40).

As a friend, Ellen was the perfect date for any event. One of the last times I had the pleasure of being with her, we went to a favorite haunt of hers, where she introduced me to everyone we encountered, from the hostess to our server to the manager and other guests — even the entertainers!

I’ll always be grateful for Ellen’s impact on GH and for her generous and creative spirit. And whether you recall her or not, hopefully in these pages you’ll find some of Ellen’s renowned

Introducing GH+ reads & freebies

Starting this month, GH+ members can sign up to receive 4 FREE digital books per year. Here’s the first one! Share your review for a chance to have it featured on our website.

Secretly Yours

by TESSA BAILEY

Hallie Welch fell in love with Julian Vos in high school, when he almost kissed her at his family’s vineyard. Years later, he returns to their small Napa town to write a novel, and she’s hired to landscape his family’s property. But their opposite personalities clash despite Hallie’s still-burning crush. Hijinks ensue when she decides to leave him a “secret admirer” note in the latest entry from this romance queen.

Sign up today to get this fab and fun members-only perk: goodhousekeeping.com/go/join

In 1994, a highenergy gal’s gal named Ellen Levine became the first female editor to lead this magazine. Late last year a light went out when she passed away. We still feel her influence —  and I will never forget her.

Levine (headshot): Courtesy of Hearst. Group photo (Levine with her husband and Oprah): Patrick McMullan/Getty Images. Group photo (Levine, Haegele and Francisco): Rob Kim/Getty Images.

Here I stand with two trailblazers: our first female editor in chief, Ellen, and our first female publisher, Pat Haegele.

ELLEN LEVINE 1943–2022

I snapped this shot of Ellen when I first started at GH. She literally lived this phrase — which was the inspiration for this issue’s theme.

Ellen with her husband, Dick, and, yes, Oprah! Ellen convinced Oprah to launch her iconic magazine, O, and helped her create it.

I can laugh and be myself again

“ “

-Sinora

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Beauty Lab

IdeasBrightfor

Winter Skin

Say goodbye to parched skin, staticky hair, a lackluster complexion and more with GH Beauty Lab top-tested product picks and expert tips.

by APRIL FRANZINO

line to test out the latest trends for free.

Face

Dullness

Hair

Conquer Cold-Weather Woes

MOISTURIZE YOUR FACE

Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin, followed by a rich face cream. When heading outdoors or going to sleep, seal hydration with a salve like GH Seal Star Aquaphor Healing Ointment, $7.

HYDRATE BODY SKIN

Swap lightweight lotion for a more nourishing body balm; apply before bed to let it soak in and soften skin overnight. Try GH Beauty Award winner Eucerin Intensive Repair Essential Oil Balm, $12.

SOOTHE CRACKED HANDS

Keep a fast-absorbing gel hand cream in your bag for easy access; smooth it on before putting on gloves to give skin a mini treatment. Try GH Beauty Lab test winner Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hand Gel Cream, $7.

BRIGHTEN A DULL COMPLEXION

Counteract winter pallor by dabbing a creamy pearlescent luminizer on cheekbones and eyelids for a soft, dewy glow. Revive flaky lips with a 2-in-1 balm and scrub.

TAME FLYAWAY HAIR

To tamp down staticky strands, spritz a smoothing antistatic hairspray all over dry hair (or try swiping it with a dryer sheet, a hairstylist hack!).

inside the GH Beauty Lab

APRIL FRANZINO BEAUTY

@APRILFRANZINO

A: Mascara can irritate eyes or skin if it contains ingredients you’re allergic or sensitive to, or if it flakes or migrates into your eyes. To minimize the likelihood of irritation, look for terms on packaging like “hypoallergenic,” “allergy-tested,” “ophthalmologist-tested” and “ophthalmologically tested.” “These terms serve as a general guideline when choosing mascara for sensitive eyes and imply that the brand has attempted to omit potential allergens that can cause reactions for some people, though they’re not a guarantee that a product is 100% allergy-proof,” says GH Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Sabina Wizemann. Before giving a product these designations, companies often test it on volunteers for allergic reactions or sensitivity, she explains. “‘Ophthalmologist-tested’ indicates that the testing was overseen by an eye doctor,” Wizemann says. GH Beauty Lab pick: GH Beauty Award winner Almay Length & Lift Mascara ($10, Walmart), which is hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested and fragrance-free and earned high marks in GH Beauty Lab testing for not causing redness or irritation on eyes or eyelids

+ LAB LOWDOWN RED LIGHT THERAPY FOR ANTI-AGING

Inspired by professional treatments, several red light therapy skincare devices are now FDA-cleared for at-home use. “Red light therapy works by exposing skin to safe wavelengths of light, which induces skin regeneration in a noninvasive way,” says Dendy Engelman, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City. “It can improve signs of aging, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, inflammation and even acne.”

Though less powerful than the professional versions, the at-home devices are painless as well as quick and easy to use. To avoid

skin irritation or damage, choose one that can provide a wavelength of light between 600 and 900 nanometers, and read the instructions on packaging carefully before use, she advises. And be patient: “You can see results from doing five to 10 minutes of treatment two to three times a week,” Dr. Engelman says. But red light therapy

“needs to be used consistently over several months to see anti-aging benefits,” adds GH Beauty Lab Executive Director Birnur Aral. GH Beauty Lab pick: LightStim for Wrinkles, $249, revolve.com

SCENT, REINVENTED

There’s a new type of perfume on the block: Dior J’Adore Parfum d’Eau, a game-changing new fragrance made without alcohol. Perfumes have traditionally been based on the solvent, which can be “drying to skin, resulting in irritation,” Aral explains. This floral scent is instead formulated with water via nanoemulsion technology in which “fragrance oil is finely dispersed and stabilized in the water,” she says. Gentle on the skin and the nose, the mist is quickly absorbed, leaving lasting notes of jasmine, magnolia, rose and honeysuckle.

GH LAB TIP

To avoid getting residue on clothing, spritz on the neck and each wrist before dressing, Aral says. It is dispensed as a very fine mist, so there’s no need to rub after spraying.

Catharine Malzahn

DIOR J’ADORE PARFUM D’EAU, $118, DIOR.COM

Woman: Getty Images. Franzino: Mike Garten. Aral: Chris Eckert/Studio

D.

How do I find a mascara that won’t irritate my sensitive eyes?

RITA G.

DIRECTOR

The look-gorgeous news, tricks and trends you need to know from GH’s in-house scientists and experts

BIRNUR ARAL, PH.D. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BEAUTY LAB

GH BEAUTY LAB

UNLOCKING THE Surface of SKIN

When it comes to your complexion, there’s so much more than meets the eye. Case in point: the skin’s top layer, or “skin barrier.” Here, GH Beauty Lab and dermatologist experts break down the science and secrets of the barrier, including why keeping it balanced is crucial for skin that’s healthy, calm, clear and hydrated.

by APRIL FRANZINO

So what exactly is the skin barrier?

The barrier is the outermost layer of skin. “It traps and holds moisture in your skin, but it also blocks out allergens, irritants and pollutants in the environment, preventing them from penetrating skin and causing inflammation,” says Whitney Bowe, M.D., a dermatologist in New York and the founder of Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty. “The four main components that make a healthy skin barrier are lipids like ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol; the acid mantle (responsible for skin’s pH); the microbiome, composed mostly of bacteria; and the skin’s immune cells.”

Signs of Unbalanced Skin

4 Top Surface Disrupters

The skin barrier naturally maintains a symbiosis that keeps your complexion functioning properly (and looking clear and smooth), but these culprits can damage it, causing or exacerbating the issues below.

Overwashing

Cleansing skin too aggressively or too often and using cleansers that are overly harsh or drying or have a pH that is too alkaline can disrupt the barrier, Dr. Bowe says.

Certain ingredients

Overuse of potentially irritating active ingredients such as retinoids and exfoliating acids, as well as harsh physical exfoliators like grainy scrubs, can lead to problems. Other common culprits are some natural or synthetic fragrances as well as drying alcohols, especially on sensitive skin, Dr. Bowe explains.

Environmental factors

These can include everything from low humidity to high wind, cold climate and sunburn, says Sheila Farhang, M.D., a dermatologist and the founder of Avant Dermatology & Aesthetics in Tucson.

Stress

“Overproduction of stress hormones can decrease skin’s natural lipids, disrupt the structural proteins and increase moisture loss,” Dr. Farhang adds.

A compromised skin barrier can manifest itself in several ways, dermatologists say:

Redness + Irritation

Telltale indicators include “skin redness, itching or burning,” Dr. Farhang explains. “Those with rosacea and eczema have intrinsically compromised skin barriers,” Dr. Bowe notes.

Dryness + Roughness

“When the barrier is disrupted, skin becomes dry and can develop rough patches,” Dr. Bowe says.

Acne Breakouts

Blemishes can be a clue too: “I’ve seen a lot of acne patients who overuse products and disrupt their barrier, and the acne gets worse,” Dr. Farhang says.

Experts recommend these do’s to make sure your skin surface stays happy, no matter what your skin type.

1324

Cleanse carefully. Wash with a gentle cleanser (skin shouldn’t be left feeling squeakyclean, Dr. Bowe says). Use cool or lukewarm water, as hot H2O can strip skin’s natural oils, Dr. Farhang says.

Tone down exfoliation. Skip harsher physical exfoliants like gritty scrubs in favor of sloughing acids in hydrating forms such as serums, advises Dr. Bowe.

Replenish and repair. Bolster the skin barrier’s lipids with moisturizers containing nourishing ingredients like ceramides and squalane. Formulas with prebiotics and postbiotics can support healthy skin bacteria.

4 Ways to Keep Your Complexion Healthy Have you heard of the acid mantle?

Avoid irritants. Seek out skincare products that are free of fragrances and essential oils, and “stop use of anything that burns upon application, which is an indication that your barrier is being damaged,” Dr. Bowe says.

Best Barrier-Friendly Skincare

These essentials help skin’s surface layer remain calm and balanced.

Coddling Cleanser

A fragrance-free solid makeup remover/face wash hybrid, it topped GH Beauty Lab testing, with 100% of users strongly agreeing that it didn’t irritate.

CLINIQUE TAKE THE DAY OFF CLEANSING BALM, $36, CLINIQUE.COM

Sometimes confused with the barrier, the acid mantle is “a thin film over the skin barrier that determines skin’s pH, which should be slightly acidic to protect against pathogens,” Dr. Farhang says. It’s composed of sebum, the natural oil produced by skin’s sebaceous glands, and sweat. “In the same ways the skin barrier can be disrupted, the acid mantle can too,” she explains. In addition, “Skin’s pH gradually increases, or becomes more alkaline, as we age, which can compromise the acid mantle,” says GH Beauty Lab Chemist Danusia Wnek. The four tips above can also promote a healthy skin pH.

Soothing Serum

In a study, this GH Beauty Award winner, made with a prebiotic ferment and without added fragrance, significantly improved skin redness and dryness.

VICHY LABORATOIRES MINÉRAL 89 PREBIOTIC RECOVERY & DEFENSE CONCENTRATE, $35, VICHYUSA.COM

Mild Moisturizer

A GH Beauty Lab test winner, this fragrance-free lotion, which contains ceramides, raised skin hydration by 48% and earned a perfect score for not causing irritation.

CERAVE DAILY MOISTURIZING LOTION, $16, DRUGSTORES

DANUSIA WNEK BEAUTY LAB CHEMIST

ACID MANTLE

Wnek: Mike Garten. Acid mantle: Betsy Farrell.

Skincare… for Your Hair!

Collagen, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides— you’ve likely heard of these ingredients in skincare products, and now they’re popping up in haircare and styling formulas too. They may be skin stars, but do they really work on strands and the scalp? GH Beauty Lab and hair experts explain what’s worth a try.

by APRIL FRANZINO

COLLAGEN

“This protein is in the skin and scalp,” says Peter Schrooyen, vice president of R&D for Unilever Beauty & Wellbeing North America. It’s used in haircare for its purported nourishing and strengthening benefits. “Collagen contains amino acids required to help with the protein development of hair, thus encouraging healthy and strong hair quality,” says Shab Reslan, a trichologist (hair expert) in New York City.

In addition, “As a topical ingredient, it has moisturizing properties,” says Krupa Koestline, a cosmetic chemist in Orlando, FL.

Best for: All hair types

GH Beauty Lab test winner: It’s a 10 Miracle Deep Conditioner

Plus Keratin, $26, Ulta

NIACINAMIDE

The skin-smoothing and brightening vitamin B3 derivative is now in silkening and thickening hair products. A study found that a complex containing niacinamide and caffeine

“penetrated the hair fiber and initiated a change to its strength that made thin hair look and feel thicker,” explains Connie Roetker, principal scientist in haircare research and development at Procter & Gamble.

Best for: Thin or fragile hair

GH Beauty Lab pick: Hair

Biology Hair Thickening

HYALURONIC ACID

This sugar molecule produced naturally by the body is a hero skin hydrator that is claimed to have similar effects on strands. “Several studies have shown the benefits of hyaluronic acid in haircare,” Koestline explains.

“It helps as a humectant [which draws in moisture] to nourish hair strands as well as the scalp.”

Best for: Dry hair

Find it in: L’Oréal Paris

Elvive Hyaluron Plump

Hydra-Flash Wonder Water, $10, drugstores

CERAMIDES

A type of lipid (fat) that naturally occurs in skin, ceramides hold cells together and help form the barrier that keeps skin, including the scalp, hydrated. “Ceramides are one of the lipids that are present in hair’s cuticle [outer layer] to protect and strengthen hair’s internal components,” Koestline says. “They help repair cuticle damage and strengthen the hair fiber.”

Best for: Damaged hair

Find it in: Dove Hair

Therapy Brilliant Gloss & Repair Serum, $8, drugstores

PEPTIDES

Known for their wrinklesmoothing effects on skin, these small groups of amino acids are “the building blocks of proteins in your hair and scalp,” Schrooyen explains. “Different types of peptides can help prevent breakage and promote hair growth,” Koestline says. “Copper peptides help encourage growth by blocking the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT).” In addition, “Peptides can help repair hair,” Reslan adds. Best for: Thinning or damaged hair

GH Beauty Award winner: K18 Biomimetic Hairscience Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask, $75, Sephora

ZINC

Variants of zinc, an active ingredient in mineral sunscreen, are employed in haircare to combat flaking and moisturize scalp skin

“Zinc pyrithione is an antifungal that keeps flakes, dryness and itchiness at bay,” Reslan explains. Another type, zinc PCA, “functions as a humectant [moisturizer] for the scalp,” Koestline says. Best for: Dandruff and dry, irritated scalp

GH Beauty Award winner: Head & Shoulders

Smooth & Silky Daily Shampoo, $6, drugstores

CAFFEINE

The claimed benefit for strands of caffeine, most commonly used for depuffing in eye creams, include thickening and volumizing. In research, a niacinamide complex (see below left) that was made with caffeine temporarily increased the diameters of hair strands by 10%, Roetker says. Applied to the scalp, caffeine can also “help boost circulation, which can clarify and foster hair growth,” Koestline says.

Best for: Thin or sparse hair

GH Beauty Lab pick: Hair Biology Hair Thickening Treatment (below left)

SALICYLIC ACID

The acne fighter is also being harnessed to clarify buildup and combat excess oil on the scalp. “Salicylic acid has antibacterial capabilities to help clear scalp buildup and is one of the best ingredients to effectively regulate oil production,” Reslan explains.

Best for: Oily hair

Pro pick: The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment, $15, sephora.com

VITAMIN E

An antioxidant and a skin soother, it’s being incorporated into haircare to nourish and condition. “Vitamin E is very moisturizing and can help add shine to hair by coating and smoothing the cuticle,” Koestline says. Best for: Dry hair and scalp, dullness and frizz

Find it in: Virtue Vitamin E 6-in-1 Styler, $34, virtuelabs.com

ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS

Skin exfoliating acids like glycolic acid and citric acid are claimed to have clarifying and strengthening benefits for strands.

“Glycolic acid helps break up product and oil buildup,” Reslan says. More research is needed on citric acid, but it may help reduce damage from one of the main causes, water exposure, by lowering water’s pH, which helps prevent it from being absorbed, says GH Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Sabina Wizemann.

Best for: Glycolic acid for oily hair and citric acid for damaged hair

GH Beauty Award winners: Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Shampoo, Conditioner and Leave-In, $30 each, Amazon

(Opposite page) Hair: Drobot Dean/Adobe Stock Photo.

The Science Behind

What It Means for Your Heart Health

) 150 to 170 mg respectively of flavonoids per 8-oz serving, compared with 3 mg in a cup of cooked broccoli and 45 mg in a medium apple!

Research shows that flavonoids from tea can help support healthy blood circulation, essential for heart health.

HEARTHEALTH TIPS

Heart health is a major concern in the U.S.; however there are steps you can take to monitor and maintain it.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

If You Smoke, QUIT!

Limit Alcohol Use

Exercise Regularly

Always consult your physician before you start any new regimen.

Schedule an

Annual Physical with Your Doctor Check your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and glucose level.

For more information on ways to support a healthy heart, visit Lipton.com

MEET FLAVONOIDS HEART,

Tea is one of the best sources of flavonoids, which can help support healthy blood circulation essential for heart health. Make Lipton green tea a part of your daily routine.

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Your Home

Turn Your Shower Into a Spa

You don’t have to renovate to transform your bathroom into a zen-like escape — adding a bench, eucalyptus and fluffy towels in your shower or just outside it can do the trick.

Amy Leferink of Interior Impressions went a step further: She applied teak panels to the wall using tile adhesive, then added hooks.

Instructions, page 96

by ALYSSA GAUTIERI

Classic... with aTwist

Cozy meets breezy in this sun-drenched Delaware beach home that was reimagined for a family of four.

by MONIQUE VALERIS Photographs by KEYANNA BOWEN

Maximize natural light.

A cramped kitchen was transformed into an airy space perfect for the family’s frequent cooking and entertaining. Designer Jess Weeth of Weeth Home expanded the layout by seven feet and chose custom glassfront upper cabinets from Unique Kitchens & Baths to reflect sunlight coming through the large windows.

PAINT COLOR: BENJAMIN MOORE SWISS COFFEE, BENJAMINMOORE.COM

ADD A COUNTER IN THE PANTRY.

For additional prep and decor space, Weeth added a butcher-block counter in the pantry and tucked small appliances into cabinets by Unique Kitchens & Baths. A brass rail for hanging pots and utensils keeps the space organized. The area “looks beautiful and is very functional,” she says.

GO TONE ON TONE ON TONE.

Browns and beiges don’t have to be boring. For a “collected and comfortable” feel, a camel-colored velvet sofa from Serena & Lily is paired with a dark wood coffee table and brass decor accents. “The colors can go with any season,” says Weeth.

CERAMIC SALAD BOWL, 658, THELITTLEMARKET.COM

PAINT COLOR: FARROW & BALL’S PIGEON, FARROWBALL.COM

the walls and satin for the trim — steals the show in the family room.

PAINT COLOR: BENJAMIN MOORE HALE NAVY, BENJAMINMOORE.COM

MEET THE HOMEOWNERS

The Tull Family

Rehoboth Beach, DE, is a tight-knit community, so designer Jess Weeth was thrilled when a mutual acquaintance introduced her to Shaun Tull, a prominent real estate agent in the area, and his wife, Erica. Five years ago, the Tulls — who have two school-age children, Madelyn and Ella —  had enlisted Weeth to redecorate their living room. “It was the second project I was ever hired to do when I started our firm,” Weeth says. So when the Tulls decided to take on a full renovation, they knew exactly whom to call. “It was humbling to be asked to lead a total renovation and addition project that ended up touching not only the interiors but also the bones of nearly every room in the house,” she says. From the enlarged kitchen to the newly created primary suite, the renovated home embodies the couple’s aesthetic, Weeth says — classic with a “new take on traditional.”

PRESERVE ORIGINAL MILLWORK.

The striking coffered ceiling and wainscoting balance grasscloth walls (Phillip Jeffries’ Japanese Paper Weave) in the dining room.

Portrait by Meg Shupe.

Create texture with shiplap.

Here, white shiplap plays up the architectural quirks in the room of one of the homeowners’ daughters —  including a “secret” door in the wall that leads to a closet full of dolls. The cane bed gives the space some weight so “not everything is light and airy,” says Weeth.

Bathrooms

From a powder room to a primary bath, these rooms sizzle with style.

EMBRACE MOD AND TRAD.

A blend of gray-toned marble flooring in a herringbone pattern and the inviting soaking tub offers a satisfying juxtaposition with the modern, clean lines of the vanity and wall tiles. Plus, “natural materials look beautiful, and touching stone feels very grounding,” Weeth says.

TRY ONE LOOK TWO WAYS.

Patterned wallpaper is ideal for making an impact in a small bathroom. Choose an intricate print that matches the colors of your vanity or go for contrast. And when it comes to hardware, feel free to layer metals for an eclectic look.

PAINT COLOR: BENJAMIN MOORE CLASSIC GRAY, BENJAMINMOORE.COM

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Color Trends

This year, nature-inspired sea greens, desert tones and winter whites are taking over interiors, from kitchens to bedrooms.

by ALYSSA GAUTIERI

Make it cohesive.

“If you want a soft, neutral kitchen with colorful cabinets, choose materials that look and feel like they came from nature. Try wood, stone and unlacquered brass.”

Sea Greens

Bold or muted, verdant hues shine in the kitchen — especially when paired with gold accents.

FRONDS KITCHEN TEA TOWEL, $16, GEOMETRY.HOUSE

OMBRÉ GREEN COASTERS, $38, STFRANK.COM

—Emily Henderson, interior designer

Layer textures.

“If you decorate mostly with neutrals, the addition of texture can help create depth. Here, the rug anchors the room and provides a palette to build off of.”

—Jessica Nelson,

owner and interior designer

Winter Whites

White interiors are timeless, but the various shades are styled in everchanging ways. For more welcoming spaces, transition away from cool, bright tones. Embrace creamy whites for walls, furniture and decor.

Carina Skrobecki. Designer: Jessica Nelson Design.

BLANC DE TREILLAGE FARROW-BALL

LIZZIE POT FROM $16, SWOONHOMELIVING.COM

RUG, FROM $89, RUGGABLE.COM

Desert Sands

Calming hues like dusty reds and muted oranges bring the beauty of nature into any room.

Craft a relaxing bedroom.

“There is a wide spectrum within color hues, so be open to different shades of red and orange. They imbue a sense of coziness and create a cocoon-like atmosphere.”

—Clara Jung, principal of Banner Day Interiors

OVERSIZED CLOUD LINEN GAUZE THROW, $149, PARACHUTE.COM

CINNAMON BENJAMINMOORE

CLAY TERRACE DUNNEDWARDS

inside the GH Cleaning Lab

CAROLYN FORTÉ, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR @fortecarolyn

Are steam mops safe to use on wood floors?

— Johanna R.

A: Steam mop manufacturers tout their products’ safety for most types of flooring, including sealed solid and engineered hardwood and laminate, but we don’t recommend them. Everyday wear and tear from shoes, pets, sunlight and more can leave wood floor finishes with fine cracks, worn spots and other openings that allow moisture to reach the wood. And from our perspective, wood floors are rarely sealed perfectly enough to resist the heat and penetrating steam these mops emit. Use a steam mop on wood often enough, and it may cause the finish to dull and the wood to warp over time. If you still want to try an occasional steam cleaning on a wood floor, start with a clean, dry pad and select the lowest temperature and steam setting your mop offers. Change the pad when it gets wet, mop the floor quickly and buff it dry afterward. We prefer to use steam mops for cleaning and sanitizing ceramic and porcelain tile and sheet vinyl flooring.

Care Tips for Wood Floors

Our cleaning dynamo shares her tips and tricks to tackle your toughest cleaning challenges and all your trouble spots.

TESTED FOR YOU

3 Cleaning All-Stars

Give your floors the TLC they deserve with these GH Cleaning Lab favorites.

GENTLE VACUUM

This slim Dyson’s soft rollers grab even the finest dust.

DYSON OMNI-GLIDE CORDLESS STICK VACUUM CLEANER, $450, DYSON.COM

In tests, floors mopped with Bona shone like new.

BONA POWERPLUS HARDWOOD FLOOR DEEP CLEANER, $10 FOR 32 OZ, AMAZON

Dust frequently.

Keep wood floors looking great by removing dust and dirt often. Because this grit is abrasive, it can scratch a floor’s finish. Vacuum often with your machine’s floor brush or soft, fluffy roller, or use a dry microfiber mop or sweeper. Wipe sticky spots with a damp cloth or paper towel and buff dry.

Wet-clean with care.

It’s fine to give sealed wood floors a wet cleaning from time to time, especially if they get lots of foot traffic, but proceed carefully. Choose a cleaner made for wood and apply it sparingly. Spray a three-footsquare section, then wipe it with a clean microfiber or disposable-pad mop. Check that the floor is drying quickly. If not, buff it dry with a cloth before moving on.

Prevent scratches.

To keep fine scratches to a minimum and help wood floors maintain a warm glow, have family members wear “indoor” shoes or slippers with soft soles whenever possible. Keep pets’ nails trimmed, and cover all table and chair legs with protective caps or felt pads. If you use an upright vacuum, switch off the rotating brush for gentler cleaning.

SPEEDY MOP

GH Seal Star Swiffer

WetJet’s absorbent pad and cleaner zap wood-floor grime fast.

SWIFFER WETJET HARDWOOD MOP KIT, $32, AMAZON

Life + Health

And BABY Makes TWO I

had always imagined myself in a traditional family structure as an adult (first comes love, then comes marriage, then comes baby, etc.). But somewhere in the back corners of my mind, I had a Plan B: single parenthood. In my late 20s, as each successive date or relationship didn’t turn into “the one,” I put my resolve into words: “If I am still single at 35, I’ll have a baby on my own.”

by MICHELLE STANSBURY

Once I started saying it out loud, I noticed that many other single women also had the idea of diving into single motherhood at some point if they didn’t find a partner. I talked to two others, Joyce Gabbert and Crystal King, for this story. The details of our experiences are different — Joyce had her daughter more than two decades ago; Crystal had two kids two years apart — but we all wanted to control our own destinies when it came to building our families.

“When I turned 35 and didn’t have a partner, I set about creating a family on my own,” says Michelle Stansbury, pictured

The growing “single mother by choice” movement may be seen as a nontraditional path to parenthood, but for these women who chose it, the reward is worth every struggle.

When I turned 35, I felt ready — more than ready, in fact — to start the next phase of my life. I approached the turning point with pragmatism: first a doctor’s appointment to remove my IUD and get a referral to a fertility specialist, learning about fertility options and the associated costs (which can reach into the tens of thousands of dollars) and getting baseline tests done to assess my fertility. I decided to start with an intrauterine insemination (IUI), which I described to friends as just slightly more complicated than the socalled “turkey baster” approach. I picked an unknown donor from a sperm bank and startedtheprocess,knowingthatwithonly about a 15% rate of pregnancy per IUI for someone like me, it would probably still be some time before I was pregnant.

After a roller coaster that involved one year, five IUIs, one miscarriage and two IVF implantations, I finally got pregnant with a healthy baby girl.

I’ve never once doubted my decision to take this journey on my own. But there have been moments — like the first time I saw her on an ultrasound or felt her kick — when I’ve wished I had a partner to share these milestones with. And when I gave birth, I realized that many institutions still operate under the assumption that babies have two parents.

Even though I was at a hospital that marketed itself as welcoming to all types of families, its visitation policy

allowed only parents or legal guardians to visit babies in the NICU. So after my emergency cesarean, when my daughter was taken to the NICU without my having been able to hold her, I struggled to find out if she was OK and to get updates on her condition while I was kept in recovery. My doula, whom I had hired for the birth, was not let into the hospital to see either my baby or me. Being alone — separated from my baby and unable to get support after a harrowing birth experience — simply because that support person was a doula instead of a co-parent was the hardest thing I’ve yet had to deal with.

Just as changes were needed to bring institutional acceptance of other types of families, such as same-sex couples, progress still needs to be made so that parents who are single (whether by choice or otherwise) will have the same rights and privileges as coupled parents.

Michelle’s daughter was born in May 2022. “My love for her expands with every breath she takes,” says Michelle.

The joy of finally being a mom is just as incredible as I had imagined.

Michelle and daughter: Kaplan Photography. Headshot: Courtesy of subject. Tree bark frame: Getty Images.

The Power and the Price

Navigating the challenges of the journey and providing a gathering place for single moms are two reasons the organization Single Mothers by Choice was founded. In 1981, Jane Mattes started the community, and she has seen the number of women curious about the option increasing in recent years. “Given the ability to support ourselves well, women are more likely to postpone marriage until we meet the right person,” says Mattes. “And when our biological clocks start ticking loudly, we no longer feel that we must have a partner to have a child — we can get married at any time but have a limited time in which we can become [pregnant].”

Becoming a single mom by choice has been incredibly empowering for me, but it is a privilege many women cannot afford. And that’s to say nothing of women who are single moms due to other circumstances — the challenges they face are in another category entirely. Choosing to get pregnant on your own (or as part of a same-sex couple) is typically very expensive, as is raising a child in a single-parent household.

For example, take the cost of finding donor sperm. Jenna Turocy, M.D., a fertility expert at Columbia University Fertility Center, says, “Women who wish to conceive may get pregnant using donor sperm. Sperm vials typically cost between $400 and $1,000, and fertility centers often charge an intake fee and a storage fee. For women who wish to use a known sperm donor, the costs associated with a known donor may be more than those for using an anonymous donor, requiring legal, psychosocial and cryobank involvement.”

Expenses only go up from there. “The cost of assisted reproductive technology treatments varies considerably based on factors such as location, potential insurance coverage and the desired outcomes of the procedure, which may entail doing multiple rounds,” says Sharon Briggs, M.D., head of clinical research at Modern Fertility. She points to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), which reports that IUI can cost between a few hundred dollars and $2,000 per cycle. According to the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, the average cost of a single cycle of IVF is $19,200. However, the full course of treatment brings the total average cost, including medications, to more than $40,000. “If your treatment requires donor eggs or a gestational surrogate, the costs continue to go up,” Dr. Briggs adds.

Taking the Plunge

The story of Joyce Gabbert, mom to a now 22-year-old daughter, resonated with me even though her decision was made two decades before mine. “I had just turned 35 years old, and Mr. Right was nowhere in sight,” she says. “I felt like life was passing me by. I had no control over finding a husband, but I did have control over creating a family. I thought about it for another couple of years, and I decided to take the plunge after hearing Green Day’s ‘Time of Your Life.’ I didn’t want any regrets at the end of my life.”

Though Joyce felt that her conception experience was relatively easy, the financial challenge was for her the most difficult aspect of raising her daughter, Emma. “I have a good job, but paying for day care was a killer,” she says. “I paid the same as my mortgage payment!Ihadtogointodebttopayforit.Leaving her when I had to go back to work was really hard too. I told myself that if it weren’t for my job and day care, she would not even exist.”

Even when she found affordable child care, there were still challenges. “When Emma was an infant, I used a wonderful licensed home day-care provider,” Joyce says. “She was great and way cheaper than a daycare center, but it was hard if I had to do an early pickup if Emma was sick. Then, when Emmawas21/2,myday-careproviderbrokeher ankle and suddenly I was without child care, so I ended up switching her to a center. It cost way more than I could afford, but what are you going to do? You have to have child care. It was a relief financially when Emma started school.”

“I had control over starting a family,” says Joyce Gabbert. ”I decided to take the plunge.” Her daughter, Emma, is now 22.

Becoming a single mother by choice is a privilege many women cannot afford.

Joyce and Emma: Courtesy of subjects. Tree bark frame: Getty Images.

Crystal King, a single mom by choice to a 5-year-old and a 2-year-old, also looked for alternatives to day care at first. “With my first child, I wanted my baby to have a consistent caregiver for at least the first year,” she says. “A nanny just for my family was out of my price range, so I took the au pair route for a year. It was approximately $23,000, but I felt that it was the best option for me as a working mother. I was correct in that respect; my child wasn’t sick at all her first year, which resulted in minimal disruption for me at work. When she turned 1, I enrolled her in day care, and she was sick every week for the next eight months.”

Some of those lessons Crystal applied to her second child. “I knew I wanted to have a do-over of some of the child-care decisions I’d made with my first. I took a longer maternity leave so I could bond with my baby and save money on childcare expenses,” she says.

Now that Crystal had two young children, her child-care costs were even higher — and balancing work and motherhood with no backup presented additional challenges. “Now, with both children in the same day care, I am paying less than I did when I had an au pair,” she says. “However, it meant I had to miss meetings or try to work from home with a sick baby, which isn’t fun at all. It was extremely stressful when I had to travel out of town for the day for work.” Even when she was in town, Crystal’s options were limited if either kid fell ill. “Finding backup care for the day after your child was sick is difficult,” she says. “One time

I brought my sick child with me to work at an off-site location because I had to present throughout the day and couldn’t find backup care. I felt awful for making that decision, but I didn’t want to lose my job. After I fulfilled that work obligation, I took her to the doctor, and she was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia. That was the turning point in my workingmotherhood journey.”

Finding Balance

In addition to being a good mom and balancing a career, carving out “me time” can be a struggle for single mothers — I’ve noticed that too. Crystal wishes she had made it more of a priority. “I had a babysitter come one Saturday a month for a few hours so I could spend that time doing what I wanted to do,” she says. “Usually it was making dinner uninterrupted, decluttering a room or responding to work emails. Looking back, I should have had them come more often.”

“Being a two-time single mom without any family nearby forced me to reevaluate my life,” she continues. “I had an established career working for a Fortune 500 company, but I knew I would never be able to be the mother I set out to be if I continued down that path. That is one of the reasons I started my own company, Amazing Baby. Life is short. Enjoy it.”

Joyce Gabbert built a community to lean on to help her find balance. “It took me a long time to reach my dream, so I really relished being a mom. When I wasn’t working, time was spent with my daughter. My sister was always available to help if I needed her to babysit. I’m a member of Single Mothers by Choice, and I made lifelong friends with many of the members, and we would often get together to gab while the kids played. We also traded off child care when needed.” Challenges aside, the journey was worth it. Says Joyce: “I was meant to be a mom, and it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

I concur. My daughter is now 8 months old. The love I have for her expands with every breath she takes. She already amazes me with her capacity for strength, curiosity, kindness and humor. And through her, I find a humbling ability to be the kind of parent I always hoped I would be.

Book of the Month

Every issue, the GH Book Club brings you one feel-good read. Here’s our January pick.

The Bandit Queens by

PARINI SHROFF

Everybody in Geeta’s remote Indian village thinks she murdered her husband, and she’s in no hurry to correct them. Being a “self-made” widow comes with some measure of respect, or at least invisibility, which enables her to run her handcraftedjewelry business (not to mention her life) without interference. But when other women start consulting Geeta for her presumed expertise, she finds herself with an unsavory side hustle on her hands—and without as much control over her own destiny as she thought. This funny, feel-good read is a rollicking ride rife with memorable characters involved in ill-fated hijinks. It also serves up clever commentary on class, power dynamics and the role of women in society, with a feminist history lesson to boot. $28

Crystal King has faced challenges as a single working mother. “Nevertheless, I’ve never loved so hard, and I’m forever grateful to carry the title of Mom,” she says.

Your Gut Health

First, what is a probiotic?

Probiotics are good, live bacteria which you add to your gut via either a supplement or certain foods with added live probiotic cultures. For a product to be classified as a probiotic, it must contain the number of colonyforming units (CFU) of live bacteria that have been proven in human studies to provide a health benefit. However, not all probiotics are the same. Different probiotic strains have shown different benefits for digestive health with different numbers of CFU.

MYTH: More is better:

Greater number of CFU or strains = greater benefits. Right?

FACT:

bacteria in the product.

Just as various vitamins’ benefits require a specific amount to be taken, various strains of bacteria offer benefits when taken in different amounts. A greater amount of one strain or a greater variety of strains does not necessarily lead to more benefits. Align 24/7 Digestive Support*§ provides a unique probiotic strain at the same number of CFUs that demonstrated digestive benefits in human studies.

Ready to make a change?

Join the Align Healthy Gut Team Up to learn what millions of Align users already know: How great a healthy gut can feel!*

The effective level depends on the specific strain of the

Heart

THE CHALLENGE

Kickstart the new year by taking one small action for your heart every day for the next month. It’ll keep your engine purring toward big benefits and a long and healthy life.

by THE GOOD HOUSEKEEPING EDITORS

Photographs by MIKE GARTEN

Prop styling by ALEX MATA

1. Be picky about processed foods.

Eating whole foods is ideal but not always possible IRL. Still, some processed foods are much healthier than others frozen strawberries and whole-wheat bread, for instance, are minimally processed to optimize nutrition, says Stefani Sassos, R.D.N., deputy nutrition director of the Good Housekeeping Institute. “These can be an affordable addition to a heart-healthy diet,” she says. Recent research, however, ties “ultraprocessed” foods (think boxed mac ’n’ cheese, most packaged cookies, candy) to increased risk of dementia and heart disease; they’re also loaded with added sugar, sodium, saturated fat and calories. If a food’s ingredients include things you’d never see in a home kitchen (like high-fructose corn syrup, emulsifiers or chemical additives), it is likely ultraprocessed, and it’s smart to give it a miss.

Inhale the outdoors. Taking a walk in the park is good for you, body and soul. Studies show that the calming nature of, well, nature can reduce blood pressure, heart rate and levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It can also help keep your brain healthy as you age. Even if you live in a concrete jungle, strolling in a local park or community garden for 30 minutes a day at least four days a week will deliver a significant benefit.

3. Bring on the barley.

This whole grain, best known for plumping up beef soup, is a great source of fiber, which protects your heart by keeping blood sugar in check; it also contains flavonoids and other phytochemicals that guard against heart disease. Use pearled barley in place of rice in any salad, soup or side dish.

Take your shot. Yes, we’re talking about vaccinations and boosters. A recent study of nearly 1 million people found that those who’d had COVID-19 were far more likely to develop diabetes or have a heart attack in the first few months after infection, possibly because of increased inflammation. Vaccines don’t necessarily prevent infection (they protect against severe disease and death), but research shows that even if you do get COVID, your heart attack risk is lower if you’re vaccinated. Get your flu shot too: Another study suggests that this reduces risk of stroke by 23% in the six months after vaccination.

5. Remember that exhaustion isn’t normal. One of the first signs of heart attack is severe fatigue, but because women frequently feel tired, we often miss this alarm, says Judith Lichtman, Ph.D., M.P.H., of the Yale School of Public Health. If you are abnormally tired, feel as if something “just isn’t right” and often need to sit down to rest, call a doctor — especially if you’re also experiencing symptoms such as chest pressure or tightness; heart palpitations or sharp pain; nausea; pain in your arms, neck, jaw or back; shortness of breath; dizziness or fainting; or cold sweats.

6. Enjoy your morning joe. According to new research, drinking two to three cups of coffee a day is associated not only with lower risk of heart disease and dangerous heart rhythms but also with living longer. Just stop with the java by early afternoon, since you also need sleep to keep your heart healthy.

Memorize a new line. You hear it all the time: A woman shows up at the ER with heart attack symptoms, only to be told that it’s stress or depression because her experience doesn’t match the classic picture of heart disease. If you feel dismissed, say, “I know heart disease is the leading killer of women —

I would like you to screen me for heart disease right now,” suggests Laxmi Mehta, M.D., director of preventative cardiology and women’s cardiovascular health at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and a national volunteer for the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women.

gives you a triple dose of hearthealthy ingredients. Start with a scoop of plain Greek yogurt, which may help lower blood pressure per a recent Australian study. Then mix in sliced cherries they’re high in a type of antioxidant called anthocyanins, which some research has linked with reduced stroke risk. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts, which help protect against inflammation, have a good amount of omega-3s and are full of fiber.

Dwell on the past.

Don’t assume you know everything about your health history. Ask your parents for details, and inquire about your grandparents, aunts and uncles too, especially about any chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. “We’re especially interested in knowing if anyone in your family was diagnosed with heart disease when they were young, because that may mean there is a genetic risk,” says Anjali Dutta, M.D., a cardiovascular specialist with Morristown Medical Center in New Jersey. She suggests creating a family tree with all the info.

Sitting for long periods has been shown to increase heart disease risks by raising both blood pressure and blood sugar, but a recent study found that getting up and moving for as little as three minutes every half hour might help counteract the risk. If you work solo, make a playlist, then get out of your chair every 30 minutes to dance to it. If not, pop in your earbuds and take a brisk walk around the office, fill your water bottle or go say hi to someone on another floor.

11. Check your meds.

About one in five American adults with high blood pressure takes a medication that can raise blood pressure, a recent study found. The most common culprits: certain antidepressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories and oral steroids. Ask your doc to review your meds to see if any can be replaced safely.

While it’s true that many including a panic attack and even reflux, err on the side of getting checked if you’re having symptoms. “We can’t tell if you’re having a heart attack just by looking at you,” says Mary P. McGowan, M.D., chief medical officer of the Family Heart Foundation, who adds that doctors are trained to order a stress test when in doubt. If it’s negative, everyone can breathe a sigh of relief.

13.

Strategize for sleep. Prioritizing shut-eye can let you reap big rewards for your heart: “When we sleep, our blood pressure drops to its lowest point, which allows us to maintain a healthy blood pressure during the day,” says Rebecca Robbins, Ph.D., a sleep expert at Harvard’s Division of Sleep Medicine and a spokesperson for Oura sleep tracking rings. Start with blackout shades: A recent study found that adults exposed to any amount of light at night were more likely to have high blood pressure and diabetes than those who slept in complete darkness.

16. Snooze in the sweet spot. An analysis of data from more than 88,000 adults found that people who fell asleep between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. had a lower rate of cardiovascular disease than those who conked out earlier or later.

19.

Speed up.

Even if you don’t walk as much as you’d like to each day, you can pump up the power of your walks by going faster. New research published in JAMA Internal Medicine and JAMA Neurology found that walking as little as 2,000 steps each day lowered the risk of cardiovascular disease — and the faster you walk, the greater the benefit.

20. Enjoy crunch time.

“I need my morning coffee” headaches or ones caused by your kid’s band practicing a little too loudly. If you experience a headache unlike any that you’ve had before especially if it’s accompanied by numbness, weakness or drooping in the face or limbs, confusion, slurred speech, dizziness or balance or vision issues it could be a sign of stroke. In that case, call 911 or get to an ER immediately.

That’s cruciferous veggies, not stressful deadlines. In a recent study, women who ate more than 45 g of cruciferous veggies (1⁄2 cup of raw cabbage or 1⁄4 cup of steamed broccoli) a day had healthier blood vessels than those who ate very small amounts. Psst: Brussels sprouts and bok choy count too!

Go fish. Eating fish such as salmon, sardines and trout is one of the best and tastiest ways to get heart-healthy omega-3s (check out the salmon recipe in “Easy Weeknights,” on page 85). Don’t have time to hit the fish market? There are several new brands of tinned fish you can keep in your pantry for quick and easy lunches and dinners. Try Wild Planet Wild Sockeye Salmon or Safe Catch Wild Mackerel.

story. Cardio exercise can, of course, reduce the risk of heart disease, improve cognition and help you live longer. So make breaking a sweat (whatever cardio you choose) more satisfying: “Incorporate something fun into your routine that will encourage you to stay consistent,” says Sassos, who's also a personal trainer. She suggests an engrossing audiobook that you allow yourself to listen to only when you exercise. JAN/FEB 2023 GH 49

There’s a direct link between intake of added sugar and risk of dying from heart disease, one major study found. These snacks have just 3 g of sugar or less: Babybel cheeses, SkinnyPop Cinnamon & Sugar Popcorn Mini Cakes and Hippeas Chickpea Tortilla Chips.

Follow your heart.

21.

And your taste buds.

Skip Instagram and instead reach out to a friend you haven’t seen since before the pandemic (or since high school!), then make plans to talk or meet in person, suggests Marisa G. Franco, Ph.D., the author of Platonic. Why? There’s a growing body of evidence that loneliness increases the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. Don’t worry that it’ll be weird: “Studies tell us that when we text someone to reconnect, they appreciate it more than we assume they will,” says Franco.

22. Work your butt off. Research shows that three 20-minute weight-training sessions per week can reduce heart disease risk. “The largest muscle in the body is the gluteus maximus, so doing lower-body strength moves gives you more bang for your buck,” says Sassos. Squats, lunges and deadlifts are her go-tos.

23. Stretch your legs. A new study found that people who stretched their legs five times a week for 12 weeks had better blood flow and less arterial stiffness than people who didn’t do any stretching. (Flexible arteries equal less chance of a blockage.) Try a Barre class or check out the StretchIt app.

24. Revisit your contraception.

If you’ve been on the same birth control pill forever, check with your ob/gyn to see if it’s still right for you. “If you have gained weight or reached age 35, or if your blood pressure has increased, birth control with estrogen could increase your risk of stroke or heart attack,” says Dr. Dutta. Methods that may be safer for your heart include an IUD, condoms and implants.

25. Be out for blood. Along with getting your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels checked regularly, ask your doctor to give you a simple blood test to see if you have familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic cholesterol condition that raises the risk of cardiovascular disease, says Dr. McGowan. It can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, but only about a third of people with this condition know they have it, she says.

26. Get a little seedy. If you don’t eat fish, you can get powerful omega-3s from walnuts and flaxseeds. One study found that a diet rich in these was associated with a 10% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 20% reduced risk of fatal coronary heart disease. Ask your doctor if you should add a supplement with 1,000 mg of EPA and DHA.

27.

Pave a path to peace. Research has shown that mental stress is a strong potential cardiac risk factor in those with coronary heart disease. The fight-or-flight response releases hormones that can increase blood pressure, body fat and arterial inflammation over time. So do what will calm you, be it meditating, outsourcing or reading for pleasure each day.

28. Make it mushy. Slice up a banana or an avocado—these yummy, creamy, potassium-filled snacks can help lower your blood pressure. According to a 2022 study in European Heart Journal, potassium-rich diets were associated with lower blood pressure, particularly in women whose salt intake was high.

Connect with an old friend.

Breakfast with heart. And hearts.

CAN HELP LOWER CHOLESTEROL AS A PART OF A HEALTHY DIET.*

*Three grams of soluble fiber daily from whole grain oat foods, like Cheerios™ and Honey Nut Cheerios™ cereal, in a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. Original Cheerios cereal provides 1.5 gram per serving. Other Cheerios flavors have .75 grams per serving.

BEYOND ORDINARY

Thewayyoucare for your family isn t ordinary. So why give them ordinaryeggs?

Eggland’s Best provides extraordinary nutrition—which is important for today’s healthy and active lifestyles

6x MORE Vitamin D*

10x MORE Vitamin E*

Plus, more of the delicious, farm-fresh taste everyone loves. No matter what you’re cooking up.

The best matters. Especially when it comes to family.

Better taste. Better nutrition. Better eggs.

25% LESS Saturated Fat* *compared

breakfast & beyond

Oats provide the perfect fiberpacked base for a variety of savory toppings for any meal. Top with a protein-filled egg, also an excellent source of vitamins B2, B5, B12, D and E. Turn the page for recipe details

Healthy EatingGuide

Looking for simple, delicious and inexpensive ways to nourish your body? The experts in the GH Nutrition Lab have you covered!

by STEFANI SASSOS, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N.

Greens, Tomato & Egg

Apricots & Pistachios

Yogurt & Almonds

3 GENIUS OATS-TO-GO BOWLS

These savory oatmeal combos (shown on previous page) are so easy, you’ll be hungry to add them as mealtime go-tos!

Oats are a supercharged base their fiber helps keep blood sugar levels steady for even mood, supports digestion to keep things moving, can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels to protect the heart and keeps you feeling full. Try these innovative mix-ins.

For Oatmeal Base:

Bring 3/4 cup water to boil. Add 1/4 cup quick-cooking steel-cut oats and a pinch of salt and cook, stirring often, until tender, 5 to 7 min.

Greens, Tomato & Egg

Toss together 5 grape tomatoes (halved), 1 scallion (thinly sliced), 2 tsp olive oil and a pinch of salt. Remove oats from heat; fold in 3/4 cup baby spinach to wilt. Transfer to bowl and top with tomatoes and 1 soft-boiled egg (halved).

Apricots & Pistachios

Add 1/8 tsp each ground cinnamon and ground cardamom to oats. Mix 1/2 Tbsp tahini and 1 tsp honey with enough water for drizzle. Serve oatmeal with tahini honey and top with 11/2 Tbsp chopped pistachios and 2 dried apricots (chopped).

Yogurt & Almonds

Use 1/2 cup fresh orange juice and 1/4 cup water to cook oats. Toss 11/2 Tbsp sliced almonds (toasted) with 1 tsp olive oil and a pinch of salt. Dollop oatmeal with 2 Tbsp Greek yogurt and top with almonds and orange zest

Q: What foods can help me feel a little sharper?

A: Lots of factors contribute to a fuzzy, sluggish feeling, and food is a big one. Your brain uses a good portion of your daily fuel (around 20% of your total caloric intake) to function properly, ensuring that you can think, remember those gazillion life details and stay on an even emotional keel. When you’re lacking in certain nutrients, you might feel less than sharp. Look for foods like green veggies, fatty fish, berries and walnuts that contain brain-centric nutrients. One great item that has ingredients to support clear thinking (and that is highly stashable in your purse): GH Nutritionist Approved Brainiac Brain Bars. Each delicious bite contains a blend of omega-3s, choline and lutein, key nutrients that help your brain thrive (and your kid’s brain too!).

New Year, Better You

Radical resolutions are out; attainable goals are in! Forget the self-imposed pressure of striving to meet ideals so lofty and unrealistic that you’ll lose steam a few months in. Instead, set an overall intention to have a healthy and vibrant year, then think of a few doable ways to live out that aspiration all year long. Try this framework, developed by business management pros George Doran, Arthur Miller and James Cunningham for SMARTer goal setting (SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely):

INSTEAD OF

“It’s diet and detox time!”

Try: “I can and will eat better. I will do this by drinking more water, exploring new produce and making my meals plant-based twice a week.”

INSTEAD OF “No more sugar.”

Try: “I will swap out one soda a day for seltzer and have fresh fruit for dessert three nights a week.”

INSTEAD OF “This is the year I’m gonna get into shape!”

Try: “I will move my body more this year by walking four times a week and attending at least one fitness class every week.”

Mike Garten. Prop styling: Lis Engelhart.

Are these food fads worth a try?

TIKTOK-TRENDY “NATURE’S CEREAL”

HIT! In this case, influencers are on to something! These recipes usually feature pomegranate arils, blackberries and blueberries floating in a coconutwater bath. All these foods are nutritional powerhouses, packed with essential antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, minerals and more. The fruits’ natural sweetness can help curb cravings too—just choose unsweetened coconut water.

THE KETO DIET

MISS! A strict keto diet puts you into ketosis, your body’s fat-burning stage, by eliminating important food groups—mainly healthy carbohydrates. While keto dieters may lose weight, it can happen at the cost of a sudden surge in “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which can spell trouble for your heart over

time. Carbs are your body’s preferred fuel source, and it’s not only OK but important to eat them. Focus on nutrientdense carbs like fruits, veggies and whole grains that offer fiber and antioxidants. The Mediterranean style of eating is ideal, as it’s rich in produce, whole grains, legumes and heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Research has consistently shown that a Mediterranean diet has many benefits, from reducing the risk of heart disease to improving cognition.

AN “INTERNAL SHOWER”

MISS! This viral social media trend involves mixing chia seeds with water and lemon and letting the drink sit, then drinking it quickly to un-constipate yourself fast. Chia seeds are nutritious (and can help keep you regular), but downing too many at once can cause irritation, bloating and stomach pain and may lead to dehydrating diarrhea.

Nutrition Power Couples

Usually, 1 + 1 = 2, but these pairings add up to more, bringing out the best in each other to provide you with even bigger benefits.

TOMATOES + OLIVE OIL

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant and a key nutrient for good eye health. Bonus: Cooking them can actually make their lycopene more bioavailable, and adding a bit of olive oil helps enhance its absorption. Time to cook up a pasta topper everyone will love.

BEANS + PEPPERS

Pairing plant-based iron (hello, cannellini and kidney beans, among others) with foods rich in vitamin C can increase the bioavailability of both to help maximize absorption. Add sautéed peppers to your fave bean dish red bell peppers in particular are one of the richest sources of vitamin C, and 1/2 cup packs over 100% of your daily needs.

TURMERIC + BLACK PEPPER

Did you know that this combo adds more than just flavor to recipes? Black pepper actually helps you absorb turmeric (it can increase turmeric’s bioavailability by up to 2,000%!) so you can enjoy more of turmeric’s antioxidant and antiinflammatory benefits.

EGGS + AVOCADO

Top that avocado toast with an egg for flavor and optimal nutrition. The healthy fats in the yolk increase absorption of the avocado’s vitamin E, and both foods contain choline, giving you a double dose of this hardto-get nutrient that’s crucial for brain health.

Get scrappy to save $$$

Produce scraps and skins tend to be the first things we throw away, but they’re often the most nutritious parts of the food. Instead of discarding skins or tossing fruits that are past their prime, try transforming them into fruit chips. You don’t need a fancy dehydrator—your oven will work perfectly. Very thinly slice four GH Nutritionist Approved Cosmic Crisp apples and arrange in a single layer on baking sheets lined with nonstick mats. Combine 2 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp each ground cardamom and ground ginger, 1/2 tsp allspice and 1/4 tsp each cloves and nutmeg and sprinkle over apples. Bake at 200°F, rotating position of pans halfway through, until apples are crisp, 21/2 to 3 hr.

QHelp! Groceries have gotten so expensive — how can I eat healthy on a budget?

A: It’s true: The rate of inflation for food costs has reached a 40-year high. But you can still make affordable choices. These are my top tips for saving money (and time) at the supermarket.

Scan your fridge and pantry: Take a look at what you have on hand and what you can use before its “best by” or expiration date. Knowing this will help you avoid throwing duplicates in your cart at the risk of having food go to waste. Then make a shopping list, and stick to it to avoid impulse buys.

Browse grocery shelves from top to bottom: Look high and low for the best prices; many generic options tend to be on the lower shelves. Items displayed at eye level tend to be the most expensive options.

Beware of shrinkflation: Many manufacturers are reducing package sizes without lowering prices. Always double-check the quantity and the unit price before snagging an item.

Make Over Movie Night

What’s an at-home film fest without the snacks?! Try these better-for-you bites while you take in your favorite flicks:

OPEN-FACED RICE CAKE SANDWICHES

Rice cakes are a crunchy low-carb base you can top with endless combos. Smear on nut butter to fill you up and add fresh mashed berries for a naturally sweet twist. Or, go savory with cottage cheese, everything seasoning and sliced cucumber or tomato.

DIY RANCH POPCORN

Level up air-popped popcorn with this ranch-inspired twist. In a separate small bowl, mix together 1/2 tsp each of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill and dried chives. Then add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, sprinkle the seasoning all over your popcorn and give it a good toss.

BERRY GOOD TRUFFLES

All berries are nutritious, but raspberries have the highest fiber content of all as well as plenty of antioxidants. Fill each berry with a dark chocolate chip for a sweet treat that’s low in sugar. This tasty bite is great on its own, or you can use it as a fun yogurt parfait topping.

Apple chips: Mike Garten. Prop styling: Lis Engelhart. Rice cakes, popcorn and berries: Getty Images.

3 Big Ways to Stop Food Waste

It’s a shocking fact that an estimated 30% to 40% of the U.S. food supply is wasted. We discard more food than any other country in the world, and research suggests that the average American household wastes 32% of the food its members obtain. Even the smallest personal effort can make a difference for your wallet and the planet—you’ll contribute to reducing harmful landfill emissions and help fight food insecurity. Here are a few ways to do your part:

KNOW YOUR DATES

Confusion about expiration labels is the reason more than 80% of Americans discard perfectly good food that they fear may make them sick. In general, a food is safe to consume if signs of spoilage—such as unpleasant odor, flavor or texture—aren’t present. Exceptions: infant formula, which should always be consumed by the “use by” date, and sometimes meat. Save this handy anti-food-waste checklist:

• Best if Used By/Before: This date indicates when a product will have the best flavor or be of the best quality, but it doesn’t mean the food will be unsafe to consume past that date.

• Sell By: This is for inventory management, so it tells the store how long to display the product for sale, but it doesn’t relate to food safety.

• Freeze By: To maintain peak quality, freeze by this date, but once the food is frozen, you can enjoy it for weeks or months to come.

PRACTICE “FIRST IN, FIRST OUT”

As you unpack your groceries, move older products to the front of the fridge/freezer/pantry and put new products in the back. This way you’re more likely to use up the older foods before they go bad.

STORE YOUR FOOD PROPERLY

Rotten or spoiled food is the ultimate bummer, but storage tricks can help keep things fresh longer.

• Always store bananas, apples and tomatoes by themselves, as these items emit natural gases that can spoil any produce around them.

• Wait to wash items like berries until right before you eat them to prevent mold.

• Consider putting grains or other pantry items like cereal and crackers in airtight containers. Use a marker to write the expiration date on cans or boxes so you will have a visual reminder.

• The FoodKeeper App is a great resource for even more specific storage recommendations.

BIOTICS 101

Probiotics get all the love, but a host of other “-biotics” also get busy in your gut microbiome, helping keep your digestion, immune system, mood and more in good shape. Each has a unique job, and you can help them through the food you eat:

Prebiotics: Plant fiber that feeds the gut’s good bacteria. Sources: bananas, onions, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus, apple skins, dandelion greens, oats

Probiotics: Live strains of bacteria that enhance the existing good bacteria in your gut. Sources: probiotic yogurt, kefir, raw kombucha, raw sauerkraut, miso soup, kimchi

Postbiotics: When probiotics feed on prebiotics, these by-products are left behind; they’re made up of beneficial nutrients that help good bacteria flourish and slow the growth of harmful ones. Eat a variety of prebioticand probiotic-rich foods to create postbiotics.

Synbiotics: A combination of prebiotics and probiotics, these help maintain a balanced gut microbiome. Synbiotics are found in supplements, but there is limited research on them, so it isn’t clear whether ingesting them is more effective than taking a probiotic and eating prebiotic-rich foods.

FRESH NEW LOOK SAME GREAT POISE

We know how to keep things fresh. That’s why the product you love is getting a new look coming soon. What’s not changing? Poise still keeps you 10x drier* than the leading period pad.

fitness awards

For GH’s annual Fitness Awards, our product experts and at-home testers put the latest exercise innovations through their paces to pinpoint the most impressive finds. Our winners deliver superior performance while making exercise engaging even fun!

Prep + Must-HavesRecovery

The right additions before, during and after workouts can help optimize performance and recovery.

Hydration Hero

Always have H2O on hand with Takeya’s triple-insulated sport water bottle.

LAB RESULTS Our pros liked the wide mouth, which makes it easy to fill and clean. The larger grip cap makes it simple to open too. Plus, it is dishwashersafe and has a convenient carrying loop for transitioning into and out of workouts.

TAKEYA SPORT WATER BOTTLE, $40 TO $65, TAKEYAUSA.COM

A+ Greens Powder

Designed for people with active lifestyles, Gnarly’s Performance Greens powder is made from whole foods and helps support steady energy and recovery.

LAB RESULTS GH’s Nutrition Lab dietitians loved that Gnarly recently became NSF Certified for Sport, meaning that it has been tested for quality, purity and safety a plus in the poorly regulated supplement industry.

GNARLY PERFORMANCE GREENS, $43, GOGNARLY .COM

Powerful Massage Tool

Whether you’re plagued with muscle tightness or fatigue, massage guns like this winner from Hypervolt are a great tool for muscle recovery. LAB RESULTS Our experts liked that this lightweight, portable percussion massager has extra-long battery life, is relatively quiet and connects via Bluetooth to the Hyperice app. HYPERVOLT GO 2, $199, HYPERICE.COM

ULTIMATE SMALL GEAR

You don’t need room-filling equipment to take your fitness to the next level. With these compact strength and cardio tools, you’ll break a sweat in no time.

Smart Bands

Resistance bands are some of the most underrated pieces of workout equipment. Our pros love Rally X3 Pro bands, which use smart tech to pair with an app that tracks your progress as you get stronger. Plus, they’re easy to carry for a workout opportunity anywhere. The bands offer adjustable resistance from 10 lbs to 110 lbs.

WEGYM RALLY X3 PRO, $250, WEGYMSPORTS.COM

All-in-One Weights

Dumbbells are a versatile exercise tool that can help strengthen and tone practically every muscle in the body. A quality set of dumbbells can help elevate your workout, improve your stamina and build muscle. Ativafit’s adjustable set allows for quick changes from 11 to 66 lbs in 5-lb increments to support various exercises and fitness levels.

ATIVAFIT ADJUSTABLE DUMBBELL SET, $459, ATIVAFIT.COM

Total Toning System

Sculpt and tone with P.volve’s three-in-one system, which provides total body resistance. Use the two bands with a handle, ankle straps or an attachable weighted ball to target arms, core and glutes. Our fitness pros were wowed that even the hardest-toreach muscles were activated with this dynamic set, helping increase mobility, stability and balance.

P.VOLVE P3 TRAINER, $70, PVOLVE.COM

QHow can I increase the effectiveness of my walks?

A: I was blown away by the effectiveness of using Jetti Pole fitness poles ($60, jettifit.com) on my walks. Grips on top and in the middle let you use them for both upperand lower-body exercises. The added weight and support feels balanced and increases energy burn.

—STEFANI SASSOS, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N., NASM-CPT, DEPUTY NUTRITION DIRECTOR & PERSONAL TRAINER

Illustrations: Brown Bird Design. Mike Garten. Prop styling: Alex Mata.

VIRTUAL PERSONAL TRAINING

Working with a fitness coach through an app or a device can save you money and give you a workout to fit your schedule.

Concierge Fitness

Using a 4K resolution touchscreen mirror with a two-way camera, Forme provides a variety of on-demand workouts, including strength, yoga, barre, breath work and more. Plus, the system pairs you with a pro who customizes a plan based on your goals and can be accessed through live oneon-one personal training.

FORME STUDIO LIFT, $4,990, FORMELIFE.COM

Trainer Matchmaker

Think of Wrkout as the Airbnb of personal trainers. Use the platform to filter fitness professionals according to your goals and their personalities and coaching styles. Then choose virtual or in-person training (or both). The virtual workouts show up directly on the platform.

WRKOUT, PRICES VARY, WRKOUT.COM

STAY CONNECTED WITH

Smart Strength Trainer

An addition to Peloton’s bike and treadmill, the Guide is the brand’s first connected strength product. It includes a camera that allows you to see your form onscreen during the workout, and advanced technology helps you home in on specific body parts, track your progress and personalize your strengthtraining regimen.

PELOTON GUIDE, $295, ONEPELOTON.COM

Compact Home Gym

The Tempo Move is a compact, stylish home gym that conveniently stores weights in its sleek cabinet and uses the iPhone’s 3D camera to provide form correction in real time. Upgrade to a One-on-One Fitness Coach, and you can get custom plans and support to meet your goals.

Top Wellness Apps

Whether you want to join a virtual fitness class, start meditating or practice yoga from anywhere, there’s an app for you.

Best for On-Demand Classes

Apple Fitness+ isn’t just for those who own the brand’s watch anyone with an iPhone can subscribe to and use the platform. It has seemingly endless class options, including cycling, treadmill, yoga, HIIT, rowing, meditation and more.

LAB RESULTS Testers loved the varied categories, the class length, the motivational trainers and the sense of community. Plus, if you’ve got a 4K TV set with Apple TV, you’ll love the video quality. Fitness+ can be shared with up to five other family members.

APPLE FITNESS +, $10 PER MONTH, APPLE.COM

Best for Mindfulness

Designed as an on-demand yoga, fitness and mindfulness platform, Alo Moves offers thousands of classes to try, including meditation, barre, Pilates, boxing, face yoga, strength training and more.

LAB RESULTS Testers appreciated that no matter where they were on their fitness journeys, the app offered accessible, approachable and motivating content. Our experts raved about the high-quality instructors, the effective exercise sequencing and the holistic wellness approach of the brand. ALO

Best Digital Guide

The ClassPass app is the ultimate wellness matchmaker, allowing users to find and book in-person workouts, spa treatments and salon appointments at thousands of top-rated studios and businesses.

LAB RESULTS One of our testers likened it to a dating app: “It’s great to use while you’re narrowing in on your potential match.” Our pros loved how easy ClassPass credits made it to achieve their desired fitness and wellness routine and try new fitness modalities.

CLASSPASS, FROM $19 PER MONTH, CLASSPASS.COM

TEMPO MOVE, $495 + $39/MONTH

SUBSCRIPTION, OR $59/MONTH, TEMPO.FIT

GH+ Club — you could be chosen to try fitness gear for next year’s awards.

Feel comfy and confident in workout clothes that will help you keep moving.

Super-soft

Bounce-Blocking Bra

Get high-impact coverage with ThirdLove’s compressive yet wire-free style. It has adjustable and convertible straps in the back. Plus, testers unanimously said it was supportive and didn't budge during exercise.

THIRDLOVE-KINETIC-IMPACTSPORTS-BRA,-$74,-THIRDLOVE.COM

MAKE MOVES WITH

Top-Rated Footwear

Textiles Lab analysts evaluated styles for every activity level, then enlisted dozens of consumer testers to provide real workout feedback.

Sturdy Leggings

These high-waisted Outdoor Research workout pants have a unique print for durability as well as convenient side pockets. Our testers said they stayed put through all kinds of movements.

OUTDOOR RESEARCH

AD-VANTAGE-LEGGING,-$99,OUTDOORRESEARCH.COM

Versatile Trainers

Perfect for runs, walks and everyday use, New Balance’s shoes combine a flexible knit with a soft foam underfoot. They’re available in three widths, including extra-wide.

LAB RESULTS After logging more than 60 hours in this style, testers gave these perfect scores for fit, comfort and cushioning. Users loved their adaptability, and one called them “very lightweight and breathable.”

NEW BALANCE-FRESH-FOAM-X1989V12,-$169,-NEWBALANCE.COM

Rad Road Runners

This new version of a beloved Brooks sneaker is extra-cushy when you’re pounding pavement. Choose narrow, standard or wide.

LAB RESULTS Runners swore that these improved performance, noting an increase in speed and a decrease in pain. “They made me feel light on my feet,” raved one, while another said, “My run felt very bouncy, with good forward motion.”

BROOKS-GLYCERIN-29,$169,-BROOKSRUNNING.COM

Handy Hiking Shoes

Built for rugged terrain, Merrell’s low-cut model offers grip and protection without restricting your movement. There are also mesh panels for breathability. LAB RESULTS Testers easily navigated rocks, roots, mud and steep inclines. They also appreciated the sneaker-like appearance, with one noting, “They were durable for hiking but also comfortable for walking around town.”

MERRELL MOAB-3,$119,-MERRELL.COM

Deluxe Socks

Bombas smart socks have separate cushioning and ventilation zones. Testers loved their comfort, and they proved shrink-resistant in Lab tests.

BOMBAS-PERFORMANCE-RUNNINGANKLE-SOCKS,-$17,-BOMBAS.COM

Mike Garten. Prop styling: Alex Mata.

running shoes: Brooks Glycerin 20

TOP FITNESS TECH

Maximize your workouts with these great gadgets.

Thoughtful Tracker

Softer and thinner than its predecessor, the latest generation of Fitbit Inspire delivers. Testers appreciated its intuitive technology, and the Lab noted its value, highlighting impressive features like sleep, heart rate and SpO2 monitoring.

FITBIT INSPIRE 3, $100, FITBIT.COM

Holistic Health Ring

The third-gen Oura Ring offers a holistic account of your health. Built-in sensors collect wellness info including heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), temperature and activity and sleep data. One tester said, “It’s so comfortable, I didn’t mind wearing it at night for the sleep data.”

OURA RING GEN 3, FROM $299, OURARING.COM

quite like a rockin’ soundtrack. Bose delivers superb audio quality with these compact, durable and comfy earbuds. Even during grueling sets, our testers said they stayed secure.

BOSE SPORT EARBUDS, $149, BOSE.COM

PUMPING WITH

Epic Equipment

The right machine will help you hit your exercise goal — 150 minutes of moderate intensity weekly — as per CDC recommendations.

Connected Indoor Bike

Riding a bike can improve your endurance and health, helping reduce heart disease risk.

LAB RESULTS The Horizon connected fitness bike offers an affordable way to enter smart fitness. Syncing it with a variety of fitness apps was simple, so testers readily streamed their favorite cycling classes on their own tablets with the convenient holder.

HORIZON 7.0 IC

INDOOR CYCLE, $799, HORIZONFITNESS.COM

Smart Boxing System

Want to boost endurance and build full-body strength? Boxing delivers an incredible workout and can help improve balance and coordination and even manage stress.

LAB RESULTS FightCamp’s studio-quality content and machinery give you access to high-quality trainers and workouts ranging from fighter-style boxing to kickboxing, strength training and core work. Athome testers loved that it came with a freestanding bag, wraps and trackers (you can buy boxing gloves separately for $149).

FIGHTCAMP, $499, JOINFIGHTCAMP.COM

Packable Paddleboard

Paddle sports have exploded in recent years as people try to switch up their fitness routines, spend more time outside and reduce stress. Plus, paddle boarding is a lowimpact whole-body sport.

LAB RESULTS In our tests, our experts were blown away by how quickly and easily the Body Glove Performer 11 inflated. The pack-and-go inflatable board is convenient and innovative, reducing the intimidation factor.

BODY GLOVE PERFORMER 11 INFLATABLE PADDLE BOARD, $999, BODYGLOVE.COM

Sophisticated Mirror

Fiture’s smart workout mirror uses innovative Motion Engine technology to track your motion and pace during workouts, counting reps and providing form feedback in real time.

LAB RESULTS Testers had excellent experiences with delivery and installation and loved that it seamlessly blended into their homes. Our experts appreciated the range of fitness modalities available and the form-correction cues during class to help exercisers get the most out of a workout.

FITURE, $1,495 + $25 PER MONTH, FITURE.COM

Pilates Powerhouse

Pilates is an effective, lowimpact workout known for its ability to tone the whole body. While a reformer may seem daunting, it can be an incredibly useful tool to increase strength.

LAB RESULTS Our pros were wowed by how Reform RX’s smart reformer had sophisticated built-in sensors to give feedback in real time. We loved that the resistance could be controlled with the touch of a button and that the foot bar adjusted to 28 positions for a wide range of movements.

REFORM RX, $4,995, REFORMRX.COM

River-Like Rowing

A rowing machine provides a low-impact full-body workout that works muscles in your arms, core, glutes, shoulders, back and legs. The best rowing machines can elevate at-home exercise sessions, and the Hydrow Wave takes it to the next level.

LAB RESULTS Our experts appreciated the brand’s smaller, lighter rower, built to offer the same best-in-class rowing experience as the original. Testers loved how they could get a solid workout in just minutes.

HYDROW WAVE ROWER, $1,695, HYDROW.COM

Your Ultimate COLD WEATHER

Survival Guide

What you need to know — about your car, your coat, your kitchen and more — to stay warm this season. Plus, our experts share tips on tackling salt stains, choosing the coziest gear and staying safe around fires.

illustrations by DAVID DORAN

DIRECTOR

What’s the best way to remove salt stains from leather boots?

Road salt can seep into footwear, causing an unsightly white ring. Here, simple steps to wipe it away.

How to Find a Warm Winter Coat

When the mercury drops and the snow starts swirling, you’ll need a coat that’s built to keep you cozy. Our Textiles Lab pros share what to look for to be sure you invest wisely.

1

Purchase a desalting product at a shoe-repair shop and apply it according to the label directions. Or, mix up an at-home solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.

2

Apply a little of the solution to a clean cloth, then lightly dab the stained areas. Continue until all the salt is dissolved. Rinse with a second cloth dampened with water, then blot with a dry towel.

Assess insulation. Our experts say real down is the best pick because its lofty clusters trap heat. The down’s fill power should be at least 600 (the higher the number, the more air it holds for better insulation). Down alternative is a great choice if you are on a budget or prefer to shop animal-free.

Think thermal.

Opt for a style that is lined with fleece or has technical features that trap body heat for extra warmth in extreme cold. GH fiber scientists give high marks to the Columbia Payton Pass Interchange Jacket ($280), which has a heat-retaining thermalreflective lining.

Plan for bad weather. Look for design details that block cold air and help keep snow, sleet and rain out GH pros recommend coats with flat, sealed seams; drawstrings that cinch around the hood; hems and cuffs that keep sleeves snug around the wrists; and a flap that protects the zipper.

3

Let the boots air-dry, being sure to place them away from radiators or other heat sources, which can make leather brittle. Finally, buff with a soft, dry cloth. Polish as needed.

art illustrations: Brown Bird Design.

3 Easy Ways to Winterize Your Car

These tips from our experts can save the day if you’re facing a snowy roadway or freezing temperatures.

Check your tires. In winter, tire treads should be at least 5/32" deep. To check, place a penny upside down in the treads. If the rubber covers Lincoln’s hairline, the tread is in good shape. If not, the tire may not perform well in snowy conditions.

Refill your antifreeze. For temps as low as -34°F, use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water (opt for 60/40 in extreme cold). Dilute straight antifreeze or try a premixed formula such as Prestone Ready to Use (50/50) ($10 per gallon, Walmart).

Add de-icing fluid. Using a windshield wiper fluid that includes an additive to help melt ice means less manual brushing and scraping in chilly weather. Our vehicle experts recommend Rain-X De-Icer ($5 per gallon, Walmart).

My house is drafty and chilly. How can I seal my windows and doors?

In many homes, all the little gaps and cracks around windows and doors can have the same effect as leaving an entire window open all winter long. To identify the biggest leaks, hold a smoldering stick of incense against each window and door, ideally on a windy day. If the smoke shifts and billows, indicating a draft, then you have a leak. Use a combination of caulk and weather-stripping, an insulating material that sticks to the bottom of windows and doors, to seal off smaller openings. For large cracks, try an expandable foam sealant like Great Stuff Insulating Spray Foam Sealant ($4.50, homedepot.com). I always keep a can handy, since I live in an old house where new air leaks spring up all the time.

GOOD TO KNOW SAFETY FIRST

Follow this advice to prevent fire damage and burns.

Candle Cautions

Place lit candles only where you can keep an eye on them. Burn pillar and jar candles for no longer than one hour per inch of the candle’s diameter (e.g., three hours for a threeinch candle). Trim the wick to 1/2" and keep the flame away from decor, kids and pets.

Electric Blanket

Best Practices

Opt for one with both autoshutoff features and a safety certification from a third party like UL or Intertek. Make sure to read the manual and check how many volts the blanket can handle. Use an adapter if needed to prevent overheating.

Fireplace Functionality

Hire a chimney sweep annually to reduce the buildup of creosote, which can pose a fire hazard. Keep a sturdy screen in front of the fireplace to contain sparks and embers. Dispose of cool ashes in a metal container placed outdoors a safe distance from the house.

ASK THE EXPERT

Cozy Kitchen Must-Haves

Chilly days beg for warming meals and beverages. Our Kitchen Appliances Lab analysts love these tools for easy soups, stews and braises as well as coffee, tea and hot chocolate.

3 WAYS TO WARM UP QUICKLY

We love that this Dutch oven comes with a traditional lid as well as one that doubles as a grill pan. Because the grill pan is used directly on the burner, it’s prone to staining, but a powdered cleaner can restore it.

MISEN DUTCH OVEN 7 QUART, $165, AMAZON

Multicooker

This recent model from Instant Brands offers all the hits Pressure Cook, Slow Cook, Sauté as well as settings for delicate foods like cakes. It also lets you edit the cook time and pressure level while the machine is in use.

INSTANT POT DUO PLUS WITH QUIET STEAM MULTICOOKER, $130, AMAZON

Electric Kettle

This kettle lets you select one of six temperature settings that correspond with recommended tea and coffee options. It also offers a keepwarm setting that stays on for up to 30 minutes. In our tests it was quick and accurate.

CUISINART PERFECTEMP ELECTRIC KETTLE, $100, AMAZON

Portable Heater

A space heater warms the area you’re in, so you can lower the heat in the rest of the house. Our pros like this Vornado with three heat settings plus vital safety features like tip-over protection and automatic shutoff.

VORNADO MVH VORTEX HEATER, $70, AMAZON

Fleece-Lined Leggings

Our Textiles experts love these warm yet breathable leggings for walking or running (or just lounging). They come in an impressive range of sizes and have three convenient pockets.

EDDIE BAUER CROSSOVER WINTER TRAIL ADVENTURE LEGGINGS, $99, EDDIEBAUER.COM

Throw Blanket

This synthetic microfiber blanket feels like soft velvet and comes in 28(!) colors. Testers gave it a perfect score for comfort and noted that it looked as good as new after washing.

BEDSURE FLEECE THROW BLANKET, FROM $13, AMAZON

These Labapproved picks will keep you toasty —  indoors or outside.

Best Overall

While smaller and more compact than most of the other powerful 1,000-watt microwaves we tested, this one from Toshiba can still fit a dinner plate. It also offers seven ways to cook: microwave, air-fry, convection, broil, defrost, sensor cook (adjusted cook time based on moisture level of food) and “combi” cook (microwave and convection at the same time so you can cook quickly while browning).

TOSHIBA 7-IN-1 COUNTERTOP MICROWAVE OVEN

$400

• The traditional-style handle is easy to use.

• It distributed heat evenly in multiple tests.

• The alerts can be muted.

• The small preset font can be hard to read.

• Its air-fried chicken wings weren’t as juicy as other models’.

This microwave had the most even heat distribution of the ones tested, reheating mac ’n’ cheese more consistently than 11 other microwaves. Through the popcorn preset, it popped 91% of kernels in a little over 2 minutes (beating six other models), and with its defrost button it thawed ground beef better than nine others.

These do-it-all countertop appliances can heat a meal, pop popcorn and defrost food, and some can even bake a cake — all in record time. Use our recent side-by-side test to find the best

how we tested

GH Lab pros evaluated 12 new models, collecting over 500 data points. To choose winners, we went through 124 slices of bread, 48 potatoes and 24 boxes of mac ’n’ cheese. We rated each model on performance, ease of use, heat distribution and range of settings and presets.

5 Tips for Microwave Mastery 1

Best Value

This Hamilton Beach microwave delivers high performance at a low cost. It has a 1,000-watt power output, a level usually found only in pricier models, and comes with all the nice-to-have features: a button to add 30 seconds, six cooking presets listed on the control panel and one-touch express buttons to cook for 1 to 6 minutes. With no handles or knobs, this microwave is sleek and easy to clean.

HAMILTON BEACH DIGITAL MICROWAVE OVEN

Best Convection

The Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven isn’t just a microwave; it’s also a convection oven, an air fryer and aninverter microwave with a broiler (meaning it uses technology to deliver power continuously for more even heating), all in one attractive machine. The appliance can perform simple tasks like popping a bag of popcorn as well as more complex jobs like baking a cake.

PANASONIC HOMECHEF

4-IN-1 MICROWAVE OVEN

Stir food frequently throughout the cooking process to ensure even heat distribution and consistent cooking.

2

Cover food with a damp towel (to prevent low-moisture foods from drying out) or a vented lid (to hold in moisture and heat foods faster while preventing pressure buildup).

3

• It popped popcorn better than seven more expensive models.

• It is easy to clean.

• All presets are on the control panel.

• The bottom is smooth and can slide on the countertop.

• The single “done” alert can be easy to miss.

Despite its plastic exterior and low cost, this microwave performed better than many products double or triple the price. It excelled at cooking popcorn and potatoes and was one of the easiest microwaves to operate without consulting the user manual. Testing revealed that this powerful machine needed less time than the preset for defrosting.

• You can select the wattage manually on the control panel.

• It baked a golden cake in 20 minutes.

• There are 20 different presets.

• Multiple accessories (an enamel tray, a wire rack and an air-frying basket) have to be stored.

• We needed the user manual to fully understand its capabilities.

While it’s on the pricier side compared with other models we tested, this microwave stood out for its performance. We were especially impressed by how evenly the convection oven baked a 9-in. yellow cake and how crispy chicken wings were with the air-fry function. There was a learning curve when it came to taking advantage of this microwave’s many capabilities, but we found the manual very helpful.

Adjust the power level depending on what you’re cooking, if your microwave allows this; melting chocolate and butter requires less power than cooking potatoes, for example.

4

Operate your microwave in shorter increments — check often for doneness to avoid overcooking.

5

Choose cookware that is microwave-safe and fits on your microwave’s turntable. We’re fans of GH Lab pick Anyday Microwave Cookware (details, page 98).

$77 $550

Stracciatella

Fresh MozzarellaBurrata

Ricotta con Latte®

Crescenza-Stracchino™

Mascarpone

Cook + Savor

SAVE SOME FOR LATER

Stash unbaked cakes in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, then pop into a 450°F oven for 15 min.

Nut Butter Perfection

Count on this classic combo for dessert on Valentine’s Day or any time at all: A scoop of creamy peanut butter (or your family’s favorite nut butter) adds salty contrast to fudgy chocolate cake.

Recipe, p. 000

Mike Garten. Food styling: Erika Joyce. Prop styling: Lis Engelhart.

Photographs by MIKE GARTEN

Food styling by SIMON ANDREWS

Prop styling by LIS ENGELHART

Fan

Squash Star

Honeynut squash has a texture similar to butternut, but cooks up far more quickly thanks to its smaller size and entirely edible fiberpacked skin (no need to peel!). If you can’t track down this variety, acorn is a stellar sub.

Right Rice

This recipe relies on shortgrain rice for a chewy bite you can’t get from longgrain. Be sure to rinse the rice in a mesh strainer this step removes excess starch so you won’t end up with a gummy batch.

Gochujang Fried Rice

Veggie-packed

Game Day 4 WAYS

Use an air fryer to make these crispy, cheesy crowd-pleasing snacks.

CHEESY KALE NESTS

p. 93

BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER BITES

p. 94

TOSTONES WITH CILANTRO DIP

p. 94

JALAPEÑO POPPERS

p. 93

JAN/FEB

APPLE SAUSAGE ROLLS

DAZZLING DIP

Dunk sausage rolls into a sweet-savory sauce: Combine 1/4 cup apple butter and 3 Tbsp Dijon mustard. So simple!

Bubbly Brilliance

A bottle of lager or pilsner brings a bit of magic to pub-style fare. Its carbonation makes the batter slightly more acidic, limiting the amount of gluten that can form, which results in a crispier crust.

QUICK & EASY

BEST TESTED HOT COCOA

Cozy up with a mug of decadent, delicious hot chocolate.

CLASSIC

This mild but chocolatey mix is perfect for kids and adults alike.

LAKE CHAMPLAIN TRADITIONAL ORGANIC HOT CHOCOLATE, $12 FOR 16 OZ, LAKECHAMPLAIN CHOCOLATES.COM

INTENSE AND RICH

Stir a few tablespoons into milk for a luxurious drink that doubles as dessert.

JACQUES TORRES HOT CHOCOLATE CLASSIC, $25 FOR 12 OZ, MRCHOCOLATE.COM

KID-FRIENDLY

Its sweet vanilla flavor will satisfy tiny palates. No marshmallows necessary but they can’t hurt!

SILLY COW CHOCOLATE

MARSHMALLOW SWIRL HOT CHOCOLATE, $9 FOR 16.9 OZ, SILLYCOWFARMS.COM

FAIR TRADE

If you’re hoping to support small farmers, this chocolatey organic pick is for you!

EQUAL EXCHANGE ORGANIC DARK HOT CHOCOLATE, $8 FOR 12 OZ, EQUALEXCHANGE.COM

COZY CUPS

Scan here for more of our favorites!

Post-dinner

Tiramisu Dip

Sweet Start

This dessert, traditionally made with coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with sweetened mascarpone, is an Italian staple. The caffeinated treat, whose name translates to “pick-me-up,” was likely inspired by tonics used to help expecting and new mothers regain their strength.

EASY WEEKNIGHTS

These quick, delicious and nutritious dinners give you a taste of the rainbow.

See Red

Heart-healthy tomatoes and red peppers contain powerful antioxidants like lycopene.

ONE-POT MEAL

Chicken with Stewed Peppers and Tomatoes

Active 10 min. | Total 25 min.

1. Heat oven to 450°F. Pat four 6-oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then rub with 1 Tbsp smoked paprika and 1/2 tsp each kosher salt and pepper.

2. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in large ovenproof skillet on medium and cook chicken until browned on 1 side, 4 to 5 min. Flip chicken. Add 2 small red onions (cut into 1/2-in.-thick wedges), 2 red peppers (quartered

and sliced crosswise 1/2 in. thick), 1/2 lb Campari tomatoes (halved) and 2 cloves garlic (thinly sliced) and season with 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper.

3. Transfer skillet to oven and roast, stirring vegetables once, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender, 14 to 16 min. Serve sprinkled with chopped parsley leaves and sliced almonds if desired.

SERVES 4 About 285 cal, 8.5 g fat (1.5 g sat), 40 g pro, 566 mg sodium, 11 g carb, 3 g fiber

GREAT FOR GUESTS

Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Red Grapes and Cabbage

Active 20 min. | Total 25 min.

pretty in Purple

Cabbage, like other cruciferous veggies, contains glucosinolates, which may help prevent cancer.

1. Heat oven to 450°F. Coat rimmed baking sheet with 2 Tbsp olive oil. Scatter 4 thyme sprigs (torn into pieces) over sheet, then top with 1 small red cabbage (about 11/2 lbs; cut into 1/2-in. wedges) in single layer. In open spaces, add 2 shallots (halved), cut sides down. Scatter 11/2 cups small red grapes over top and season everything with 1/2 tsp each kosher salt and pepper Roast until cabbage is tender, shallots are caramelized and grapes begin to release some juices, 15 to 18 min.

2. Meanwhile, heat 1 Tbsp oil in large skillet on medium.

Season one 11/2-lb pork tenderloin (cut into 4 portions) with 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper; cook, turning occasionally, until browned and instant-read thermometer inserted in center registers 145°F, 8 to 10 min. Transfer to cutting board and let rest 5 min. before slicing.

3. Remove baking sheet from oven and immediately add 1/2 cup red wine vinegar, stirring to loosen any browned bits. Serve cabbage, shallots and grapes with pork and spoon any pan juices on top.

SERVES 4 About 364 cal, 14 g fat (3 g sat), 37 g pro, 597 mg sodium, 23 g carb, 4 g fiber

Photographs by MIKE GARTEN

Prop styling by LIS ENGELHART

Food styling by ERICA JOYCE

Green

with Crispy Tofu

1. Heat oven to 425°F. On rimmed baking sheet, toss 12 oz extra-firm tofu (patted dry and cut into 1-in. pieces) with 1 Tbsp olive oil, then 1/4 tsp gochugaru and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Roast 15 min., flip and roast until golden brown and crisp at edges, 8 to 10 min. more.

2. Meanwhile, chop 11/2 lbs broccoli, keeping stems and florets separate. Heat 1 Tbsp oil in Dutch oven on medium. Add 3 scallions and 1 jalapeño (both chopped) and 2 tsp grated ginger and sauté 2 min. Add broccoli stems and sauté 5 min. Stir in 3 cloves garlic (chopped); cook 1 min.

great greens

Vegetables like broccoli and spinach (two ingredients in this soup) are packed with fiber, vitamins and important minerals like iron.

3. Add one 13.5-oz can coconut milk, 2 tsp vegetable bouillon base (we used Better Than Bouillon) and 2 cups water and cook, stirring, until bouillon base dissolves, 30 sec. Add broccoli florets and 1/2 tsp salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until broccoli is tender, 8 to 10 min.

4. Remove from heat; stir in 4 cups baby spinach and 1 cup cilantro leaves. Using immersion blender, puree until smooth. Serve soup topped with tofu, thinly sliced scallions and gochugaru if desired.

SERVES 4 About 379 cal, 29.5 g fat (19.5 g sat), 15 g pro, 1,012 mg sodium, 20 g carb, 6 g fiber

HEART HEALTHY

Seared Salmon with Spiced Sweet Potatoes

Active 15 min. | Total 35 min.

1. Heat oven to 425°F. On rimmed baking sheet, toss 4 small sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs; peeled, cut into 2-in. pieces) with 1 Tbsp olive oil, then 1 Tbsp coriander seeds (crushed), 1 red chile (thinly sliced) and 1/2 tsp each kosher salt and pepper. Roast until golden brown and tender, 20 to 25 min.

2. Meanwhile, in small bowl, whisk together 2 Tbsp clementine juice; 1 tsp each honey, grated ginger and white wine vinegar; and 1 Tbsp oil.

Orange Blossom

Eating “fatty” fish like salmon a few times a week can help support brain health.

3. Heat 1 Tbsp oil in large skillet on medium-high. Season 4 skinless salmon fillets (11/4 lbs total) with 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper and cook until golden brown and just opaque throughout, 5 to 6 min. per side. Serve with sweet potatoes, drizzle with vinaigrette and sprinkle with chopped cilantro leaves if desired.

SERVES 4 About 388 cal, 14 g fat (2.5 g sat), 32 g pro, 602 mg sodium, 33 g carb, 6 g fiber

Pierogi with Sautéed Cabbage

START HERE

Active 20 min.

Total 20 min.

Frozen Potato and Onion Pierogi

Pan-fry one 16-oz pkg. frozen potato and onion pierogi per pkg. directions.

Bacon

Meanwhile, cook 4 slices bacon in large skillet on medium, flipping once, until crisp, 5 to 6 min. Transfer to paper towel–lined plate; let cool, then break into pieces.

Onion

Wipe out skillet and heat 1 Tbsp olive oil on medium. Add 1 onion (sliced) and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, 5 min.

Savoy Cabbage

Add 1/2 small savoy cabbage (about 1 lb; cored and thinly sliced) to onion in skillet and season with 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper. Cook, covered, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are just tender, 2 to 3 min.

Whole-Grain Mustard

Stir in 11/2 Tbsp whole-grain mustard and 1 Tbsp water and cook 1 min. Fold in bacon and serve with pierogi.

Serves 4

About 305 cal, 12 g fat (2 g sat), 10 g pro, 756 mg sodium, 41 g carb, 5 g fiber

Mike Garten. Food styling: Erika Joyce. Prop styling: Lis Engelhart. Bacon, onion, cabbage and mustard: Getty Images.

version of the popular Thai chili sauce, perfect for adding a spicy kick to drinks, desserts, marinades and more.

Photographs by MIKE GARTEN

Prop styling by LIS ENGELHART

Food styling by SIMON ANDREWS

TAME THE FLAME

Spice level will depend on the chiles. Taste the tip of one and if it’s too hot, replace some with roasted red peppers. Just make sure the total weight of the peppers remains the same.

HOMEMADE SRIRACHA

Active 15 min.

Total 45 min. plus cooling

1/2 lb Fresno chiles, stemmed

1 12-oz jar roasted red peppers, drained

5 cloves garlic

5 Tbsp dark brown sugar

1 Tbsp kosher salt

1/3 cup white distilled vinegar

1. In food processor, combine chiles, roasted peppers, garlic, sugar and salt; process until smooth. Scrape down sides, add vinegar and process to combine. Strain mixture through fine-mesh sieve set over medium saucepan, pushing down with rubber spatula to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids.

2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer on medium, stirring occasionally, until sriracha thickens and clings to back of spoon, 24 to 26 min. Let cool to room temp, then transfer to glass bottle or jar. Can be stored in refrigerator up to 4 months. Makes 1/2 cup

4 MORE WAYS TO FIRE IT UP

1. Spiced Chocolate Bark

Active 10 min. Total 10 min. plus cooling

In medium saucepan, bring 1 in. water to a simmer. Place 12 oz bittersweet chocolate (finely chopped) in large heatproof bowl and place bowl over (but not in) simmering water, stirring occasionally, until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp

Homemade Sriracha (page 89) and 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon. Spread chocolate onto parchment-lined baking sheet into 1/8-in.-thick layer (it will not reach sides of pan). Top with 1 cup mini salted pretzels

2. Pickles With a Kick

Active 10 min. Total 10 min. plus cooling In small saucepan, combine 11/2 cups rice vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 Tbsp Homemade Sriracha (page 89), 2 tsp kosher salt and 3/4 cup water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until sugar and salt dissolve, 3 min.; let cool.

Divide 1 tsp coriander seeds and 4 cloves garlic (smashed) evenly between 2 wide-mouthed quart glass jars. Pack jars with 8 kirby cucumbers (cut into spears), leaving 1 in. of space at top. Fill with cooled pickling liquid, close lids and refrigerate at least 2 days and up to 2 months.

Makes two 32-oz jars

3. Sriracha Mixed Nuts

Active 5 min. Total 35 min.

Heat oven to 325°F. In large bowl, whisk together 1 large egg white and 2 Tbsp Homemade Sriracha (page 89) until foamy. Add 5 cups unsalted mixed nuts (we used a combo of cashews, almonds and pecans) and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 Tbsp sesame seeds and toss until nuts are thoroughly coated. Spread onto parchment-lined baking sheet and bake, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and dry, 23 to 27 min. Makes 5 cups

4. SrirachaMaple Bacon

Active 5 min. Total 30 min. Heat oven to 400°F. Arrange 10 slices bacon (about 12 oz) without overlapping on wire rack set inside foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Bake 10 min. Flip and bake 10 min. more. Mix 1 to 2 Tbsp Homemade Sriracha (page 89) and 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup in small bowl and brush onto bacon. Bake until crisp, 8 to 10 min.

Serves 4 to 6

GOOD TO GO

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THE WORKBOOK

Comfort Cooking

p. 74

SAUCY SAUSAGE

MEATBALLS Q M

Active 10 min. | Total 20 min.

2 large eggs

2 tsp balsamic vinegar

Kosher salt and pepper

1/3 cup panko

4 large cloves garlic, grated

1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped

2 oz provolone, finely grated (about 1/2 cup)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan

1/2 tsp dried oregano

1/2 lb ground beef (85% lean)

1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed

1 cup tomato sauce

1 strip orange zest

1 small cinnamon stick

1. Heat broiler. Line rimmed baking sheet with nonstick foil.

2. In large bowl, whisk together eggs, vinegar, 3/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper. Stir in panko and let sit 1 min. Stir in garlic, then parsley, cheeses and oregano. Add beef and sausage and gently mix to combine.

3. Shape meat mixture into 20 balls (each about 11/2 in.) and place on prepared sheet. Broil until cooked through, 6 to 8 min.

4. Meanwhile, in small saucepan, combine tomato sauce, orange zest and cinnamon stick; simmer 5 min. Toss meatballs in sauce and serve.

Air fryer directions: Heat air fryer to 400°F. Arrange meatballs in single layer in air fryer basket (meatballs can touch, but do not stack; cook in batches if necessary) and air-fry until cooked through, 8 min.

SERVES 4 About 352 cal, 21.5 g fat (9 g sat), 26 g pro, 1,165 mg sodium, 13 g carb, 2 g fiber

Active 25 min. | Total 40 min.

8 oz Tuscan kale (about 1/2 bunch), stemmed, leaves halved lengthwise, then thinly sliced crosswise

1 tsp olive oil

Kosher salt and pepper

2 large eggs

1 scallion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, grated

1/2 cup almond flour

11/2 Tbsp all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

4 oz extra-sharp white Cheddar, finely shredded

1. Heat air fryer to 400°F. In large bowl, rub kale with oil and 1/2 tsp salt. Transfer to air fryer basket and cook until wilted, 1 min.; return to same large bowl and let cool.

2. In medium bowl, whisk together eggs, scallion and garlic. In small bowl, whisk together both flours and baking powder. Fold egg mixture, flour mixture and cheese into kale.

3. Line air fryer basket with parchment paper, leaving enough room around edges to allow for air circulation. Working in batches, drop 1-Tbsp spoonfuls of mixture into basket, spacing 1 in. apart. Cook until nests turn golden, about 4 min. Using small offset spatula or fork, carefully flip each nest and cook until golden brown and edges are crisp, 1 min. more. Repeat with remaining kale mixture. Serve immediately.

MAKES 24 About 46 cal, 3.5 g fat (1.5 g sat), 3 g pro, 95 mg sodium, 2 g carb, 1 g fiber

JALAPEÑO

POPPERS Q G M V O

Active 10 min. | Total 20 min.

4 oz cream cheese, at room temp

2 oz extra-sharp Cheddar, coarsely shredded (1/2 cup)

1 scallion, finely chopped Dash of hot sauce

6 medium to large jalapeños Nonstick cooking spray

1. In medium bowl, stir to combine cream cheese, Cheddar, scallion and hot sauce until smooth. Transfer to resealable plastic bag. Halve jalapeños lengthwise and scrape out seeds with small spoon.

2. Heat air fryer to 375°F. Snip off 1 corner of bag and pipe cheese mixture into jalapeño halves. Lightly coat air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray and arrange poppers in single layer. Cook until tops are browned, 6 to 7 min.

SERVES 4 TO 6 About 135 cal, 12 g fat (7 g sat), 4 g pro, 143 mg sodium, 3 g carb, 1 g fiber

CHEESY KALE NESTS V O

TOSTONES WITH CILANTRO DIP G V

Active 25 min. | Total 45 min. plus soaking

For tostones

3 green plantains

2 Tbsp lime juice

Kosher salt

3 Tbsp canola oil, divided

1/4 tsp smoked paprika

For dip

11/2 cups cilantro

1/2 ripe Hass avocado

1/2 serrano chile, chopped

1 clove garlic

1 scallion (green part only), roughly chopped

2 Tbsp lime juice

1 Tbsp white vinegar

1/4 tsp agave or honey

Kosher salt

1. Make tostones: To peel plantains, cut 2 slits down sides of each just deep enough to go through peel, avoiding flesh; carefully peel in sections. Cut plantains crosswise

3/4 in. thick.

2. In large bowl, stir together lime juice, 2 tsp salt and 4 cups water until salt dissolves. Add plantains and let soak 20 min.

3. Meanwhile, make dip: In blender, puree cilantro, avocado, serrano

chile, garlic, scallion, lime juice, vinegar and agave until smooth, adding 1/4 to 1/2 cup water as needed; season with salt. Press parchment or plastic wrap directly on surface of dip and refrigerate until ready to serve.

4. Heat air fryer to 350°F. Drain plantains but do not dry (a little excess water helps soften them). In bowl, toss plantains with 1 Tbsp oil. Transfer to air fryer basket, leaving space in between, and cook 9 min., flipping after 5 min.

5. Transfer tostones to work surface lined with parchment paper. Using heavy glass or mug, firmly smash each to about 1/4 in. thick (clean bottom of glass occasionally to prevent sticking). If tostones harden, reheat briefly in air fryer for easier smashing.

6. Heat air fryer to 400°F. Using 1 Tbsp oil, brush both sides of half of tostones and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp salt. Transfer to air fryer basket, spacing about 1/2 in. apart, and cook until edges start to turn light golden brown, 3 to 4 min. Flip and cook until crisp and golden brown around edges, 4 min. more. Transfer to plate. Repeat brushing and cooking with remaining oil and tostones and leave in air fryer.

7. When second batch is ready, top with first batch of tostones and cook until reheated and crisp, 1 to 2 min. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and serve immediately with dip.

SERVES 4 About 298 cal, 14.5 g fat (1.5 g sat), 2 g pro, 371 mg sodium, 64 g carb, 6 g fiber

BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER BITES G

V O

Active 20 min. | Total 45 min.

For dip

3/4 cup sour cream

2 tsp lemon juice

1/4 tsp kosher salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1/2 tsp buffalo wing sauce (we used Frank’s)

1 large scallion, finely chopped

11/2 oz crumbled blue cheese (1/3 cup), plus more for topping

For buffalo sauce

1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (we used Frank’s)

1 Tbsp canola oil

1/2 tsp honey

For cauliflower

1/2 cup rice flour

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/4 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp kosher salt

1/2 cup plus 2 Tbsp cold seltzer

1 2-lb head cauliflower, trimmed and cut into 11/2-in. florets (about 7 cups)

Canola oil, for brushing Cucumber spears and/or celery sticks, for serving

1. Make dip: In bowl, combine all ingredients; refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Make buffalo sauce: In large bowl, whisk together all ingredients; set aside.

3. Make cauliflower: Heat air fryer to 400°F. In another large bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, baking powder and salt. Whisk in seltzer. Add cauliflower and toss to coat.

4. Brush air fryer basket with oil. Working in 2 batches, add cauliflower and cook, shaking basket after 10 min., until crispy, 15 min. total. Transfer to plate. When second batch is done, leave in basket and top with first batch of cauliflower; cook 2 min. to reheat.

5. Transfer cauliflower to buffalo sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately with dip, cucumbers, celery and extra blue cheese if desired.

SERVES 4 About 286 cal, 16 g fat (6 g sat), 6 g pro, 1,075 mg sodium, 31 g carb, 3 g fiber

BEER-BATTERED FISH SANDWICHES

Active 40 min. | Total 40 min. plus soaking

1/2 small white onion, very thinly sliced into rings

1/3 cup mayonnaise

31/2 Tbsp horseradish, squeezed of excess liquid

2 tsp lemon zest plus

3 Tbsp lemon juice, divided

1 tsp agave or honey

Kosher salt

2 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced lengthwise on mandoline

2 Tbsp dill fronds, chopped

2 Tbsp tarragon leaves, chopped

Canola oil, for frying

2/3 cup plus 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

4 5-oz cod fillets (each about

3/4 in. to 1 in. thick)

3/4 cup rice flour

11/2 tsp baking powder

1 12-oz bottle beer (pilsner or lager), chilled

2 tsp olive oil

4 brioche hamburger buns, toasted

4 large green leaf lettuce leaves, torn

2 large pepperoncini peppers, thinly sliced

1. Fill bowl with ice water. Add onion and soak 10 min.

2. Meanwhile, in small bowl, combine mayonnaise, horseradish, lemon zest,

1 Tbsp lemon juice, agave and 1/4 tsp

THE WORKBOOK

salt; refrigerate until ready to serve.

3. Remove onion to paper towel to drain, then transfer to large bowl. Add cucumbers, dill and tarragon and toss to combine; refrigerate until ready to serve.

4. In large Dutch oven, heat 1/2 in. oil to 385°F. Set wire rack inside rimmed baking sheet.

5. Place 1/2 cup all-purpose flour on plate. Season cod with 1/4 tsp salt, then dredge in flour. In large bowl, whisk together rice flour, baking powder, remaining 2/3 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp salt. Whisk in beer until consistency of pancake batter.

6. Add cod to batter and turn to coat thoroughly. Lift 1 fillet out at a time, letting excess drip off. Fry in oil, adjusting heat to keep oil at 365°F, until golden brown, 2 min. Flip and cook until golden brown and opaque throughout, 3 to 5 min. Transfer to prepared rack.

7. Remove cucumber salad from refrigerator. Add olive oil, remaining 2 Tbsp lemon juice and 1/4 tsp salt; toss to combine. Spread bottom buns with horseradish mayo; top with lettuce, fish, pepperoncini and cucumber salad, then add top buns.

SERVES 4 About 730 cal, 28.5 g fat (5.5 g sat), 33 g pro, 1,421 mg sodium, 84 g carb, 5 g fiber

Active 15 min. | Total 25 min.

3 oz bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped

11/2 cups heavy cream, divided

1/4 cup Kahlua

8 oz mascarpone

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

1/2 tsp instant espresso powder

1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Kosher salt

Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Ladyfingers, for dipping

1. Place chopped chocolate in medium bowl. In small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup heavy cream and Kahlua and heat on medium until simmering, 3 to 4 min. (or microwave in bowl until hot, about 1 min.). Pour cream mixture over chocolate, let sit 5 min., then stir until smooth. Refrigerate until cool but still pourable, 10 to 15 min.

2. Meanwhile, in stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment on medium, beat mascarpone, confectioners’ sugar, espresso powder, vanilla and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy, 1 to 2 min.

3. Gradually add remaining 11/4 cups heavy cream and beat until stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 min.

4. Divide tiramisu dip among glasses, layering with chocolate sauce and gently folding to swirl. Dust with cocoa powder and serve with ladyfingers. Alternatively, in large bowl, fold chocolate sauce into dip and serve family-style.

SERVES 6 About 489 cal, 40.5 g fat (27 g sat), 5 g pro, 37 mg sodium, 23 g carb, 1 g fiber

FOOLPROOF FRYING

Don’t be intimidated! Frying is easier than you think, especially with these top tips.

SET UP YOUR SPACE

Fried foods go from perfectly golden to burned to a crisp in a blink, so be prepared to move quickly. Before you start, place a wire rack in a rimmed baking sheet so you can transfer foods once cooked. The wire rack helps keep your goods crunchy, and the sheet tray catches all drips.

OPT FOR THE RIGHT OIL

Choose an oil that has a high smoking point like vegetable, canola or peanut oil, which can all handle the high temps necessary for frying without developing a bitter bite.

CHECK YOUR TEMP

Consistency is key! Adding food to oil that hasn’t come up to temp yet will result in a soggy crust, and if the oil is too hot, the exterior of the food will burn and leave the rest undercooked. Continue to adjust the heat to keep the oil temp just right. You may want to invest in a kitchen thermometer that attaches to the side of the pan so you can track the temperature of the oil.

TIRAMISU DIP Q M V H

Mike Garten. Fried chicken: Getty Images.

THE WORKBOOK

HOW TO INSTALL TEAK PANELS IN A SHOWER

p. 23

The natural oils in teak resist moisture, making it the perfect wood for wet areas. Amy Leferink of Interior Impressions advises starting with moisture-blocking drywall, topped with waterproofing primer. Then apply the wood directly to the wall using a tile adhesive (no grout required). Depending on your style, Leferink says, you can “install the teak as a floor-to-ceiling strip or break it up with porcelain tile on the lower section.” Finally,

GOCHUJANG

FRIED RICE V

Active 45 min. | Total 1 hr. 10 min. plus cooling

2 cups short-grain white rice

3 Tbsp gochujang

3 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce

11/2 Tbsp honey or light agave

2 tsp rice vinegar

4 Tbsp sesame oil, divided

2 large shallots, chopped

3/4 tsp grated fresh ginger

2 large cloves garlic, grated

2 medium carrots, coarsely grated

2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds, plus more for sprinkling

4 cups baby spinach

4 large eggs

2 scallions, thinly sliced

1/2 cup cilantro leaves Kimchi, for serving

1. Cook rice per pkg. directions (see Note). Spread onto parchment-lined baking sheet and cool in refrigerator 20 min. In small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey and vinegar; set aside.

2. Heat 3 Tbsp oil in large nonstick pan on medium. Add shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender, 4 to 5 min. Stir in ginger and garlic and cook 30 sec. Add rice and toss to coat, then fold in carrots. Create well in center and pour in gochujang mixture. Fold to combine and cook, stirring occasionally, until rice is hot and beginning to crisp, 5 to 6 min.

3. Reduce heat to low and fold in sesame seeds and spinach until wilted.

4. In nonstick or cast-iron skillet, heat remaining Tbsp oil on medium and cook eggs to desired doneness. Serve over rice topped with scallions, cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve with kimchi.

Note: To cook rice, place in mesh strainer and rinse until water runs clear. Shake off excess water and transfer to medium saucepan with 3 cups water. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer 20 min. Remove saucepan from heat and let steam, covered, 10 min.

SERVES 4 About 598 cal, 22 g fat (3.5 g sat), 16 g pro, 841 mg sodium, 83 g carb, 9 g fiber

LAYER FLAVOR

Cooking the gochujang for a few minutes before adding ingredients helps bring out its sweet and savory notes, giving your fried rice complexity and spiciness.

All-purpose flour, for dusting

1 14-oz pkg. puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed in fridge

1 large egg, beaten

1/4 cup apple butter

3 Tbsp Dijon mustard

1. In small bowl, combine nutmeg, fennel, 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper. Spread pork out in large bowl to create large surface area. Rub pork with garlic, then break up meat into scraggly pieces and sprinkle with nutmeg mixture, then fresh herbs, panko and grated apple. Using 2 forks, gently mix until just combined; refrigerate until ready to roll pastry.

2. On lightly floured surface, unfold puff pastry and roll to 9- by 10-in. rectangle. Cut rectangle in half lengthwise to create two 5- by 9-in. rectangles. Repeat with remaining sheet of pastry to make 4 rectangles total. Divide pork equally among pastry rectangles, arranging along 1 long side of each rectangle, then shape sausage into logs about 1 in. in diameter.

3. Brush opposite side of each rectangle with some beaten egg (reserve remaining for baking) and roll over sausage to seal. Transfer seam side down to parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until slightly firm, about 20 min.

4. Heat oven to 400°F. Cut each sausage roll crosswise into 6 pieces (each about 11/2 in. thick); return half, seam side down, to same baking sheet and repeat with remaining rolls on second parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush just surface of pastry with remaining egg wash and bake, rotating and swapping positions of pans halfway through, until pastry is golden brown and sausage is cooked through, 24 to 28 min.

5. Meanwhile, in small bowl, stir together apple butter and mustard. Serve with sausage rolls.

APPLE SAUSAGE ROLLS H

Active 25 min. | Total 1 hr. 10 min.

2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg

2 tsp fennel seeds, lightly crushed Kosher salt and pepper

1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper

1 lb ground pork

1 clove garlic, grated

1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped

4 sage leaves, chopped

2 tsp fresh thyme leaves

1/2 cup panko

1 small Gala apple, peeled and coarsely grated (about 2/3 cup)

Air fryer directions: Heat air fryer to 350°F. Line air fryer basket with parchment paper and cook sausage rolls, in batches, 6 min. Remove parchment paper and continue airfrying until sausage is cooked through and pastry is golden, 6 min.

MAKES 24 About 154 cal, 9.5 g fat (2 g sat), 5 g pro, 182 mg sodium, 11 g carb, 1 g fiber

put in hooks or posts to create a towel rack if desired.

11" Intagliato Wood Wall Mosaic Tile by The Tile Shop, tileshop.com

Natural Teak 3D Wall Panels, $129, woodywalls.com

24" Reclaimed Wood Wall Paneling by Realstone Systems, wayfair.com

rice and rolls: Mike Garten.

BBQ CHICKEN SWEET POTATO NACHOS G

O

Active 10 min. | Total 30 min.

1/2 tsp honey or light agave

1/2 tsp lime zest plus 2 Tbsp plus 2 tsp lime juice, divided Kosher salt

1 jalapeño, very thinly sliced

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

2 rotisserie chicken breasts, shredded (about 2 cups)

3/4 cup barbecue sauce

1 6-oz bag thick sweet potato chips (we used Terra)

6 oz Cheddar cheese, coarsely grated (about 11/2 cups)

1/4 cup sour cream

1/2 cup cilantro leaves

1. Heat oven to 400°F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In small bowl, whisk together honey, 2 Tbsp lime juice and 1/4 tsp salt to dissolve. Add jalapeño and onion and toss to combine; let sit, tossing occasionally, until ready to use.

3. In medium bowl, toss shredded chicken and barbecue sauce to coat.

4. Arrange sweet potato chips on prepared sheet in single layer; sprinkle with 1 cup cheese, then chicken, then remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake until cheese is melted and chicken is warm, 15 to 18 min.

5. Meanwhile, in small bowl, combine sour cream, lime zest and remaining 2 tsp lime juice.

6. Top nachos with pickled red onion and jalapeño. Drizzle with sour cream sauce and sprinkle with cilantro.

SERVES 4 About 616 cal, 32.5 g fat (11 g sat), 32 g pro, 1,245 mg sodium, 49 g carb, 5 g fiber

QUINOA-STUFFED

HONEYNUT SQUASH G V H

Active 40 min. | Total 1 hr. 5 min.

2/3 cup tricolor quinoa

Kosher salt

1/4 cup buttermilk

1/2 small clove garlic, grated

4 oz feta, crumbled (scant 1 cup), divided

2 tsp lemon zest plus 21/2 Tbsp lemon juice, divided

3 Tbsp olive oil, divided

4 honeynut squash (about 3 lbs total), halved lengthwise and seeded

2 tsp honey, warmed

3/4 cup mint leaves, roughly chopped

3/4 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves, roughly chopped

1/4 cup roasted almonds, toasted and chopped Aleppo pepper and flaky salt, for sprinkling

1. Place rimmed baking sheet in bottom third of oven and heat oven to 450°F.

2. In medium saucepan, bring 1 cup water to a boil. Stir in quinoa and 1/4 tsp salt and return to a boil. Reduce heat and gently simmer, covered, 10 min. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, 5 min. Fluff with fork,

transfer to medium bowl and let cool to room temp.

3. Meanwhile, in mini food processor, puree buttermilk, garlic, threequarters of feta (about 2/3 cup) and 1 Tbsp lemon juice until smooth; refrigerate until ready to use.

4. Carefully coat hot baking sheet with 11/2 Tbsp oil. Season cut sides of squash with 1/2 tsp salt, then arrange cut sides down on prepared sheet with squash necks facing long sides of pan. Roast until cut sides start to brown, 10 to 12 min. Flip, drizzle cut sides only with honey (to prevent burning on pan) and roast until tender, 11 to 13 min. Transfer to platter.

5. Toss quinoa with remaining 11/2 Tbsp each lemon juice and oil, then fold in herbs and lemon zest. Spoon into squash cavities, drizzle with dressing and sprinkle with remaining feta and almonds. Sprinkle with Aleppo pepper and flaky salt if desired.

SERVES 4 About 524 cal, 23 g fat (6.5 g sat), 15 g pro, 666 mg sodium, 74 g carb, 12 g fiber

SAUCE STANDOUTS

These boast heat, spiciness and oh-so-good flavor.

BALANCED BUY

Try a well-rounded combo of sweet, spicy and sticky on chicken or ribs.

Lambert’s Sweet Sauce ’o Mine Lambo Combo Competition Sauce, $5, ssomd.com

SMOKE SHOW

Hickory smoke added to the batch means the flavor lives up to its name.

Lillie’s Q Smoky Barbeque Sauce, $7.50, lilliesq.com

TANGY CHOICE

Tasters loved this pick for its vibrant, fruity tomato-forward bite.

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que Sensuous Slathering BBQ Sauce, $4.50, dinobbq.com

Nachos and squash: Mike Garten.

TOP-TESTED Stellar Microwave Cookware

This set offers speedy, consistent results.

These stackable frosted glass bowls with glass lids are designed for microwave cooking —  the lids help retain steam for even cooking and can be vented for safety to release any built-up pressure.

Lab Results: We tested this cookware in multiple microwaves, making an assortment of food from tender-crisp veggies to jammy soft-boiled eggs. The set proved highly versatile — it steamed, cooked and reheated ingredients like a charm.

Anyday Microwave Cookware Starter Set, from $55, cookanyday.com

THE WORKBOOK

Make Your Own p. 88

SRIRACHA SHRIMP TACOS WITH MANGOAVOCADO SALSA O

Active 20 min. | Total 30 min.

1 Tbsp Homemade Sriracha (page 89), plus more for serving 1/2 tsp lime zest, plus halved lime

2 ripe mangoes, diced, divided Kosher salt

1 lb large peeled and deveined shrimp, tails removed

1/4 small red onion, finely chopped 1 avocado, diced

2 Tbsp chopped cilantro, plus sprigs for serving

8 small flour tortillas

1. In mini food processor, puree sriracha, lime zest, half of mango and 1/2 tsp salt until smooth; transfer to bowl. Pat shrimp dry and toss with marinade; refrigerate 15 min.

2. Meanwhile, squeeze juice of 1/2 lime into medium bowl (about 4 tsp), stir in a pinch of salt to dissolve, then stir in onion; let sit 5 min. Add avocado, remaining mango and cilantro and toss to combine; refrigerate until ready to serve.

3. Heat broiler on high and line rimmed baking sheet with foil. Remove shrimp from marinade and arrange on prepared sheet. Broil until opaque throughout, 4 to 5 min. Squeeze juice of remaining lime half over shrimp.

4. Fill tortillas with shrimp and mango salsa, then top with cilantro and additional sriracha if desired.

SERVES 4 About 426 cal, 13.5 g fat (3.5 g sat), 23 g pro, 1,410 mg sodium, 56 g carb, 8 g fiber

Switch it up

For chicken tacos: Substitute 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed) for the shrimp. Broil until cooked through, 6 to 10 min.

SPICY

MARGARITA Q G V O

Active 10 min. | Total 10 min. plus cooling | Serves 1

Finely grated lime zest, coarse salt and lime wedge, for rimming 2 oz tequila blanco

3/4 oz fresh lime juice

11/2 Tbsp Sriracha Syrup (recipe below)

Sliced Fresno chile, for garnish (optional)

1. On small plate, combine lime zest and coarse salt. Rub lime wedge on rim of rocks glass, then dip in lime salt to coat. Fill with ice and set aside.

2. In cocktail shaker filled with ice, shake tequila, lime juice and sriracha syrup until shaker begins to frost. Strain into prepared glass and garnish with sliced Fresno chile if desired.

SRIRACHA SYRUP

In small saucepan, bring 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 tsp Homemade Sriracha (page 89) and 1/4 cup water to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until sugar dissolves, about 2 min. Remove from heat and let cool to room temp.

JANE FRANCISCO

EDITOR IN CHIEF & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, HEARST LIFESTYLE GROUP

Melissa Geurts CREATIVE DIRECTOR

• Beth Dreher EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Lauren Matthews GROUP DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR • Kim Cheney EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR

EDITORIAL Michelle Manetti GROUP DEPUTY DIRECTOR • Dana A. Levy MANAGING EDITOR

Kayla Keegan SENIOR EDITOR, EDITORIAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT • Lizz Schumer SENIOR EDITOR

Marisa LaScala SENIOR EDITOR, PARENTING & RELATIONSHIPS • Katarina Avendaño SENIOR SEO EDITOR

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Hannah Jeon EDITORIAL ASSISTANT • Adrianna Freedman EDITORIAL ASSISTANT, NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT

Cameron Jenkins STAFF WRITER • Ann Schinnerer EDITORIAL BUSINESS MANAGER

HEALTH NEWSROOM Lisa Bain EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR • Stephanie Dolgoff DEPUTY DIRECTOR

Alyssa Jung, Kaitlyn Pirie SENIOR EDITORS • Zee Krstic EDITOR

ART & DESIGN Mariana Tuma DESIGN DIRECTOR • Elisabeth Engelhart VISUAL STYLING DIRECTOR

Betsy Farrell, Miguel Rivera ART DIRECTORS • Alex Mata CRAFT STYLIST • Laura Formisano DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR

Danielle Carson ASSISTANT DESIGNER • Carlos Paredes DIGITAL IMAGING SPECIALIST

FOOD Kate Merker CHIEF FOOD DIRECTOR • Trish Clasen Marsanico DEPUTY FOOD EDITOR • Susan Choung RECIPE EDITOR

Tina Martinez FOOD PRODUCER • Becca Miller ASSOCIATE EDITOR • Joy Cho ASSISTANT FOOD EDITOR • Samantha MacAvoy EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

HOME Monique Valeris SENIOR EDITOR • Cailey Lindberg COMMERCE EDITOR, GIFTS & LIFESTYLE

Alyssa Gautieri ASSOCIATE LIFESTYLE EDITOR • Mariah Thomas ASSISTANT EDITOR

BEAUTY April Franzino BEAUTY DIRECTOR • Catharine Malzahn BEAUTY ASSISTANT

RESEARCH & COPY Janie Matthews RESEARCH DIRECTOR • Clare Ellis RESEARCH EDITOR

Benay R. Bubar COPY CHIEF • Kristy Kofron DEPUTY COPY CHIEF

HEARST VISUAL GROUP Roni Martin-Chance VISUAL DIRECTOR Ulrika Thunberg DEPUTY VISUAL DIRECTOR

Sara Neumann VISUAL EDITOR • Lynzee Marmor ASSOCIATE VISUAL EDITOR • Mike Garten PHOTOGRAPHER VIDEO Lauren DeThomasis ASSOCIATE VIDEO PRODUCER

PEANUT

BUTTER MOLTEN CHOCOLATE CAKES V H

Active 25 min. | Total 45 min.

3/4 cup unsalted butter (11/2 sticks), cut into pieces, plus more for greasing

1/3 cup granulated sugar, plus more for dusting

6 oz semisweet chocolate chips

3 large eggs plus 3 yolks, at room temp

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/4 tsp kosher salt

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, plus more for dusting

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/3 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural type)

3 Tbsp confectioners’ sugar

1. Heat oven to 450°F. In medium saucepan, bring 1 in. water to a simmer. Butter six 6-oz ramekins and dust with granulated sugar.

2. Combine chocolate chips and butter in large heatproof bowl and place bowl over (but not in) simmering water to gently melt, stirring occasionally, until smooth. Remove bowl from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Meanwhile, in medium bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, yolks, vanilla and salt until well combined. In small bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder and baking powder. Add egg mixture to chocolate mixture and whisk until combined; add flour mixture and gently whisk until batter is smooth. Divide half of batter among prepared ramekins.

4. In second small bowl, stir together peanut butter and confectioners’ sugar until combined. Scoop 1 Tbsp into each half-filled ramekin. Cover with remaining chocolate batter, dividing among ramekins. Place on rimmed baking sheet.

5. Bake until sides of cakes are set and centers are still slightly gooey, 11 to 13 min. Let cakes cool 2 min., then loosen edges in each ramekin with small offset spatula. Using kitchen towel, carefully invert each onto plate to serve. Dust with additional cocoa powder if desired.

SERVES 6 About 592 cal, 44.5 g fat (23 g sat), 10 g pro, 233 mg sodium, 45 g carb, 3 g fiber

GH INSTITUTE

Laurie Jennings GENERAL MANAGER

Rachel Rothman CHIEF TECHNOLOGIST & EXECUTIVE TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

BEAUTY, HEALTH & SUSTAINABILITY LAB Birnur K. Aral, Ph.D. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sabina Wizemann SENIOR CHEMIST Danusia Wnek CHEMIST Chiara Butler REVIEWS ANALYST

HOME CARE & CLEANING LAB Carolyn E. Forté EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR • Jodhaira Rodriguez REVIEWS ANALYST

TEXTILES, PAPER & APPAREL LAB Lexie Sachs EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR • Emma Seymour SENIOR ANALYST • Grace Wu PRODUCT ANALYST

Amanda Constantine HOME & APPAREL REVIEWS ANALYST KITCHEN APPLIANCES & INNOVATION LAB Nicole Papantoniou DIRECTOR

Eva Bleyer REVIEWS ANALYST NUTRITION LAB Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N. DEPUTY DIRECTOR

MEDIA, TECH, HOME IMPROVEMENT, WELLNESS, PARENTING & PET LABS Dan DiClerico HOME IMPROVEMENT & OUTDOOR DIRECTOR

Olivia Lipski MEDIA & TECH REVIEWS ANALYST • Jamie Spain PARENTING & PETS REVIEWS ANALYST

Alec Scherma TEST ENGINEER • Nikolas Greenwald LAB ASSISTANT

EDITORIAL Jessica Teich DEPUTY EDITOR Sarah Wharton SENIOR EDITOR & ANALYST Jen Gushue SENIOR PRODUCT & REVIEWS EDITOR

Jacqueline Saguin ASSOCIATE PRODUCT & REVIEWS EDITOR • Abigail Bailey ASSISTANT TO THE GENERAL MANAGER

PATRICIA HAEGELE

SVP, GROUP PUBLISHING DIRECTOR & CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

Sara Rad VICE PRESIDENT, SALES

Christine Rannazzisi Gerstein VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING David Rockefeller GROUP FINANCE DIRECTOR

Barbara E. Semmel EXECUTIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR

ADVERTISING SALES NEW YORK Paula Sarapin, Sarah Smith, Karen Sullivan, Christina Marusic Vukic EXECUTIVE SALES DIRECTORS

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INTERNATIONAL EDITION UNITED KINGDOM

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GH Little Lab

TOP-TESTED

Game Time!

To select the year’s best family games, the GH Institute applied some serious criteria: simple setup and rules, well-made pieces and concepts that fostered a variety of skills. But our kid testers had the best job: to test for fun! Turn the page for the winners.

How we tested:

We logged hundreds of data points and had nearly 100 testers (kids ages 1 to 14 and their parents) help us rate dozens of games on:

• Ease of use

• Skill development

• Kids’ interest in playing again and again

3+ EASY GUESSING GAME

A great option for playing on the go, Guess in 10 Junior has kids pick an animal card that other players have to try to figure out. A guide uses pictures to give kids hints about questions to ask, such as where the animal lives and what it eats, so reading isn’t required. Beyond animals, other available themes include Inside My House and Food We Eat.

LAB RESULTS Kids loved learning about all the different animals, and parents reported that older siblings had fun with these too.

Skillmatics Guess in 10 Junior Animal Kingdom, $15, 2 to 6 players

4+ SENSORY STACKERS

This is a gravity-based game like no other thanks to the use of Kinetic Sand, which serves to create a platform on a set of support sticks high up in jungle trees. For each turn, a player has to remove a stick and hope the quicksand doesn’t sink their character piece. LAB RESULTS Parents were impressed that the sand held its shape so the pieces didn’t sink too quickly but kids loved it when they finally did go down. “I’ve played it a lot by myself!” one kid tester admitted. Spin Master Sink N’ Sand Game, $22, 2 to 4 players

4+ PUZZLE ON A ROLL

An aged-down version of the popular Marble Circuit game, this solo stumper has cards that challenge the player to hit certain targets with marbles. Kids have tiles with paths at their disposal and have to figure out how to lay them out to make the marbles do the correct run.

LAB RESULTS Every time the marbles were released there was a big wow factor, and kids liked making their own paths in addition to doing the challenges.

MindWare Marble Circuit Junior, $27, 1+ players

This Uno-like card game was developed by teachers, but kids will have so much fun with it that they may not realize they’re learning. One player puts down a word card and the next has to try to match letters in that word with their own cards. With each turn, kids hone their understanding of letters and sounds.

LAB RESULTS This one was a hit even with reluctant readers. “I like these cards better than workbooks,” one said.

Mrs Wordsmith Phonics Blah Blah Blah Card Game, $30, 2+ players

6+ SILLY SPATIAL RELATIONS

If you asked someone the height of a table in inches, they might be able to hazard a guess. But how tall is it in…gummy bears? Or bananas? This game challenges players to take guesses, then has them use tape measures with “wacky units” to see who came closest. LAB RESULTS Families liked how easy it was to play. With such a simple premise, it’s a good one to break out at a party. Hog Wild Tapes, $29, 2 to 4 players

7+NOSTALGIC FAVE

Fans of the old Labyrinth board game and the classic Disney movie will love this one—competitors play as Disney villains like Scar, Maleficent, Hades and Ursula. Each participant gathers up their henchmen to escape the labyrinth. But at each turn, a player is able to change the maze’s path to get their team out faster and hold others back.

LAB RESULTS “You have to use your brain a lot,” one kid tester said. But the strategy made it “fun and exciting,” stated another.

Ravensburger Disney Villains Labyrinth, $35, 2 to 4 players

Blah Blah Blah and Guess in 10: Mike Garten; prop styling by Alex Mata.

+ THINK FAST

For this version of Scattergories, the letters for each category are laid on a table. When a player thinks of a word that fits, they shout it out and place a marker on it. If another player comes up with a different word, they stack their marker on top. The player with a marker at the top of the stack when time is up racks up points based on how many are underneath.

LAB RESULTS “I like that we can play all together,” one kid said.

Winning Moves Games Scattergories

Stackagories, $18, 2 to 4 players 13

+ ON TREND

Wordle: The Party Game turns the solo mobile game into an IRL head-to-head competition. The “host” picks a five-letter word, just like in the online version, and other players have to guess it. The host then uses colored tiles to mark whether the letters are correct and whether they are in the right spots or the wrong ones.

LAB NOTE There are options to play in timed mode, fast mode or team mode.

Hasbro and New York Times Games Wordle: The Party Game, $20, 2 to 4 players

Scattergories and games on carpet: Mike Garten; prop styling by Alex Mata.

Better BathTime

by LIZZ SCHUMER

Bath Frequency

How often you should wash your dog depends on two main factors: their breed and their lifestyle, explains Jerry Klein, D.V.M., American Kennel Club chief veterinary officer. If your dog spends a lot of time outside digging in the dirt, splashing around in puddles or playing at the dog park, they may need baths more often than a pup who spends the majority of their time inside. Short-haired breeds need baths less frequently than those with longer, thicker coats. Baths that happen too often can strip the naturally protective oils from your pet’s skin and coat, which can lead to or worsen dryness and irritation.

As a general rule, Klein recommends bathing a short-haired dog approximately once a month or so. Long-haired dogs may need to be bathed more often if you’re unable to brush them clean, or they can be taken to a groomer if they require more extensive cleaning. Pets with dermatological issues or fleas or other parasites who need medicated baths may require bathing

at different intervals — if yours fits into one of these categories, check with your vet.

Cats, on the other hand, generally can bathe themselves, says Jennifer Lauren Lopez, D.V.M., of URvet Care. “Cats are meticulous when it comes to licking themselves, putting their scent on themselves and, in essence, self-grooming,” she says. Healthy cats can keep themselves clean as long as they’re able to groom effectively. Older cats or those with mobility challenges like arthritis may need a little extra help. Hairless breeds also need bathing, as sebum and oils can build up on their skin.

Even if you don’t put them in the tub, it is important to give both dogs and cats regular skin checks, trim their nails and make sure the insides of their ears look and smell clean. Run your hands over their body at least once a month to check for any irregularities. If you notice lumps, bumps or irritated spots or their ears smell funky, take them to the vet.

Why Pet-Safe Shampoo Matters

It’s tempting to use laundry detergent, dish

soap or your own shampoo on your pet. But household soaps could dry out your pet’s skin, and because the pH of dogs’ and cats’ skin is different than that of humans’, the formulation of and added perfume in human shampoo can irritate their skin and lead to itching, explains Klein. Your dog’s veterinarian or groomer can recommend a good shampoo for their hair and skin type.

That said, some situations can require special cleaners, Lopez notes. For a pet who gets into something particularly messy like oil or sap or gets sprayed by a skunk, and for kittens who are too young for anti-flea baths, using Dawn or a similar dish soap may be necessary. Klein says rinsing actually matters more than which cleaner is used, as residue from even the gentlest shampoo can dry out a pet’s coat. “The rinsing should take at least as long as the lathering,” he advises. “Use a little less shampoo and a lot more water.”

Clean Smarter, Not Harder

Get your dog used to bath time when they’re

Most pets don’t love being washed, but a few tips and tricks can make the scrub-a-dub easier and more fun.

Treat well with BLUE, and you’ll feel it too.

young to make it less of a chore for all involved. “I have always trained my pups to make it a fun thing to jump in the tub, like a game,” Lopez explains. “ ‘Get in the tub, you get a treat.’ But they don’t necessarily get a bath every time.” She also recommends tiring out water-averse pets beforehand with a long walk, dog park visit or play session so they won’t have as much energy to resist. Some dogs like to distract themselves with their favorite toys in the bath, just as kids do. When it’s time for a bath, gather all your tools — including shampoo, any brushes or combs for long coats, treats to keep them calm and a towel for drying them off. Placing a towel or a nonslip mat on the bottom of the tub can make a skittish pet feel more secure.

Dry Them Thoroughly

Nobody likes wet dogs rubbing themselves on the rug, couch or bed, but that’s not the only reason to dry them well when they get out of the tub. “A damp coat could lead to skin infections, matted hair or more of a mess if they get outside in the yard,” Lopez notes. You can use a hairdryer on a low setting, but be careful not to let it get too hot. To make getting dried off feel like a fun snuggle session, Lopez likes using microfiber drying mitts that slip over her hands instead of traditional bath towels. While your pet probably won’t get sick from having wet fur, they can get chilled, so make sure to dry them completely.

GH LAB PICKS WASHING WONDERS

Expert-recommended picks for bathing your pup

With its mitten design and microfiber shag, this makes drying off faster and more fun.

Amazon

Slather the mat with peanut butter, then stick it to the tub wall to distract your bath-averse pup. $15, Amazon

Your vet can recommend the best shampoo for your pet; this option gently cleans and hydrates your pet’s skin.

Amazon

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TREAT them like family.™

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