Cooking Tips

Scallops labeled as "dry pack" are untreated but have a shorter shelf life. Both sea and bay scallops are susceptible to toxic algae and contaminants. With farmed scallops though, harvesting is prohibited when the level of contaminants in the water reaches a dangerous level.

With dense, juicy white flesh, sea bream are thought after because of their mild, white meat, considered as some of the best of any white-meat fish. It is mostly farmed in Mediterranean regions.

Raw meat and seafood: consuming them can pose a danger to your gut and overall health while traveling abroad. Uncooked or undercooked meat and seafood can cause health scares even in developed countries like the U.S. Even if cooked with citrus juice or vinegar, they should always be avoided on your travels.

While both come from the same plant, they have different uses and tastes. Cilantro is the leaves and stems of the coriander plant. When the plant flowers and turns seeds, the seeds are called coriander seeds. Cilantro is also the Spanish word of coriander.

Peas are a good source of vitamins C and E, zinc and other antioxidants that strengthen your immune system. Other nutrients, such as vitamins A and B, help reduce inflammation and lower your risk of chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease and arthritis.

Bechamel sauce is a thin sauce and is classically made of butter, flour, milk, finely chopped shallots, a pinch of nutmeg and white pepper. Southern style white gravy is much thicker, is usually made from pan drippings instead of butter, never uses onions or nutmeg, and always uses cracked black pepper.