Laurel Gray is an estate vineyard and winery in the Yadkin Valley and Swan Creek AVA (American Viticultural Area) of North Carolina growing and producing French Vinifera varieties. The winery motto is “French Country with Southern Charm.” Kim Myers, president and co-owner of the vineyard, helped pair
By Brandon McDearis Most people think of risotto as a treat eaten only rarely, at nice restaurants. However, it is fairly easy to make at home, and it is hearty enough to have as a main course at meal time. The possibilities with risotto are endless, but it
By Brandon McDearis This month’s recipe is an easy way to bring your favorite Greek restaurant home. However, if you want to skip the mess (and the fat) that goes along with frying, then just form the balls, flatten them a bit and lay them on a sheet
By Brandon McDearis This month’s recipe is a lightened-up version of a classic party food. Spinach artichoke dip always feels like a guilty pleasure, as it should, since it usually consists of mostly cheese and mayonnaise. However, with a little adjustment, the flavor can remain without the regret
By Brandon McDearis Banana nut bread was always a favorite of mine growing up. While some desserts just aren't the same after they have been "lightened,” I have always found it a little ridiculous that most banana bread recipes call for a cup of sugar, a half-cup of
By Brandon McDearis Have you ever wondered what’s inside those little energy gels that you are squeezing down your throat in the middle of a race or at the back end of a workout? I have. I recently became curious, so I began doing some research on what it
By Brandon McDearis You don’t have to be a nutrition professional to be aware that most people in the Western world do not eat the recommended amount of vegetables every day. The benefits of vegetable consumption are huge, whether you are trying to lose weight or trying to prevent
By Brandon McDearis This month’s recipe is delicious and very simple to prepare. The honey balsamic vinaigrette adds a nice contrast of sweetness to the bitterness of the spinach and the arugula. While it is nice and light, the addition of the butter beans makes it filling enough to
By Brandon McDearis The quesadilla has become almost as traditional now as the sandwich was 50 years ago in America. Much like sandwiches, quesadillas can be made with a variety of ingredients, either healthy or unhealthy. There is no limit to what you can stuff inside a quesadilla, however,
By Brandon McDearis If one of your goals for the new year is to eat a bit cleaner, then you should definitely try this month’s recipe. Study after study shows the many benefits of eating a diet high in fiber, yet we Americans most often come up very short