GMC Trade Secrets http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com GMC Trade Secrets http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/media/feedlogo.gif GMC Trade Secrets http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Forbidden Foods Done Right http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/forbidden-foods-done-right/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/forbidden-foods-done-right/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/forbidden-foods-done-right/#comments Sam Talbot knows a thing or two about living a healthy lifestyle, but he still craves comfort food like chips and burgers. Here, he shows you how to create a good-for-you alternative to potato chips using kale, and offers up a lamb burger recipe that will be your go-to from this day forward.

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]]> Sam Talbot 2012-01-27T00:00:00+00:00 Impromptu Dinner http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/impromptu-dinner/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/impromptu-dinner/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/impromptu-dinner/#comments For a grab-and-go dinner, try Sam Talbot's Korean short ribs. You can make them ahead of time and transport them easily for an impromptu meal on the go. With a few simple and economical ingredients, and a few hours of prep and cooking time, you can make a super-flavorful dish that all of your friends will love.

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]]> Sam Talbot 2012-01-20T00:00:00+00:00 Special Side Dishes http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/special-side-dishes/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/special-side-dishes/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/special-side-dishes/#comments Tired of serving and eating the same old sides? Try Sam Talbot's flavorful Israeli couscous. Here, the expert chef shows you how to make an unforgettable dish, which incorporates fennel, onions, pine nuts, garlic and scallions with almond milk and chicken broth. With just a little preparation, you'll have a side that's sure to please.

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]]> Sam Talbot 2012-01-13T00:00:00+00:00 Exploring the Ethnic Aisle http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/exploring-the-ethnic-aisle/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/exploring-the-ethnic-aisle/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/exploring-the-ethnic-aisle/#comments If you're looking for a way to spice up your meals, try traditional ethnic food. With just a few ingredients that are available in any supermarket's ethnic aisle, you can add creativity and depth to the flavor of your food. Here, Sam Talbot shows you how to utilize harissa and wonton wrappers to create two tasty and easy dishes.

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]]> Sam Talbot 2012-01-06T00:00:00+00:00 Healthy Brunch http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/healthy-brunch/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/healthy-brunch/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/healthy-brunch/#comments Searching for a heart-healthy alternative to everyday pancakes? Look no further. Here, Sam Talbot shows you how to make his lemon ricotta pancakes, which are not only lower in calories, sugar and fat than average pancakes, but they're easy to make, too. Add a fried egg on top and you'll have a savory addition that takes this dish to a whole new level.

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]]> Sam Talbot 2011-12-30T00:00:00+00:00 Types of Flooring http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/types-of-flooring/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/types-of-flooring/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/types-of-flooring/#comments There are many types of flooring out there, but each has different pros and cons. Here, Eric Stromer runs down the main advantages and disadvantages of hardwood, cork, bamboo, natural linoleum, carpet and tile flooring to help you make a decision on what's best for your home.

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]]> Eric Stromer 2011-12-28T00:00:00+00:00 Modern Antipasti http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/modern-antipasti/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/modern-antipasti/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/modern-antipasti/#comments Antipasti is defined as "before the meal," so you can make a variety of inspired platters, depending on the cuisine you've chosen. The most important thing to remember is to stick to five key flavors and textures: smoky, creamy, salty, crunchy and acid. Here, Sam Talbot explains how to achieve this goal by putting his spin on traditional Italian antipasti.

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]]> Sam Talbot 2011-12-23T00:00:00+00:00 How to Remove Red Wine Stains http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/how-to-remove-red-wine-stains/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/how-to-remove-red-wine-stains/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/how-to-remove-red-wine-stains/#comments Red wine stains can be tough to get out, but if you act quickly, they won't stand a chance. With a few common household products -- soap, hydrogen peroxide, club soda, salt and even white wine -- can help remove red wine from clothing or tablecloths with ease.

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]]> Eric Stromer 2011-12-21T00:00:00+00:00 Edible Gifts http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/edible-gifts/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/edible-gifts/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/edible-gifts/#comments The holidays are here, and thanks to Sam Talbot, you'll have the skills to put together a present that's both economical and personal. For the ultimate edible gift, try the chef's recipes for sprinkling sugar or fruit-infused simple syrups. For that extra special someone, put them all together to create a delicious gourmet basket. Don't forget the secret ingredient: love.

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]]> Sam Talbot 2011-12-16T00:00:00+00:00 How to Choose a Contractor http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/how-to-choose-a-contractor/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/how-to-choose-a-contractor/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/how-to-choose-a-contractor/#comments There are many home improvements you can do yourself, but when it comes to the big projects, hiring a contractor is the way to go. Here, Eric Stromer talks about what you should look for when hiring a contractor in order to get the job done well, on time and on budget.

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]]> Eric Stromer 2011-12-14T00:00:00+00:00 Garage Sales http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/decor/garage-sales/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/decor/garage-sales/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/decor/garage-sales/#comments There are many treasures to be found at garage sales and yard sales. You can breathe new life into old items by repurposing them for modern day uses. For instance, an old watering can may be used as a decorative item or large vase. Add hooks and a good coat of paint to an old window shutter, and you'll have a cool jewelry holder. The possibilities are endless when you look at things from a different perspective.

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]]> Carter Oosterhouse 2011-12-12T00:00:00+00:00 Food on the Go http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/food-on-the-go/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/food-on-the-go/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/cooking/food-on-the-go/#comments As a frequent traveler, Sam Talbot is always trying to figure out ways to eat healthily on the go. Eating well is actually easier than you think, and with a little preparation, you can make delicious snacks and meals that will keep you fueled up as you head to your next destination.

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]]> Sam Talbot 2011-12-09T00:00:00+00:00 How to Clean and Store Paint Brushes and Rollers http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/cleaning-and-storing-paint-brushes-and-rollers/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/cleaning-and-storing-paint-brushes-and-rollers/ http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/diy/cleaning-and-storing-paint-brushes-and-rollers/#comments Paint brushes and rollers can easily be ruined if you don't clean them properly after each project. With the help of some mineral spirits, a wire brush, soap and water, you can clean oil- and water-based paints with ease. Here, Eric Stromer offers tips on how to clean and store brushes to ultimately save yourself time and money.

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]]> Eric Stromer 2011-12-07T00:00:00+00:00 GMC 'Let's Trade Secrets Challenge' Decor Winnerhttp://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-decor-winner/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-decor-winner/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-decor-winner/#commentsFiled under:



The grand prize winner of the GMC Let's Trade Secrets Challenge in the home decor category is Lorin Cook. Lorin is a mother of four, so it's hard to get out for a romantic date night with her husband. Instead of venturing out for dinner and a movie, this resourceful mom found a way to bring romance into her basement using DIY decor. With decorative throws, unique pillows, candles and hand-dipped chocolates, she transforms her space in minutes. Watch how she does it below and stay tuned for Lorin's video with Carter Oosterhouse.



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]]>Nadine Cheung2011-12-05T10:00:00+00:00GMC 'Let's Trade Secrets Challenge' Decor Runner-Uphttp://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-decor-runner-up/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-decor-runner-up/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-decor-runner-up/#commentsFiled under:



The runner-up of the GMC Let's Trade Secrets Challenge in the home decor category is Marinelli Payne. After becoming a homeowner, this Michigan native found a new passion for decorating. Here, she offers her secrets on how to decorate for Halloween on a budget by using low-cost finds and repurposing items.



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]]>Nadine Cheung2011-12-05T09:50:00+00:00GMC 'Let's Trade Secrets Challenge' Home Improvement Winnerhttp://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-home-improvement-winner/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-home-improvement-winner/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-home-improvement-winner/#commentsFiled under:



The winner of the GMC Let's Trade Secrets Challenge in the home improvement category is Gina Bishop. This mother and business owner found a way to transform a forgotten closet into an imaginative play space for her kids. Here, Gina explains how a little paint, creativity and love can open up a whole new world for your children.



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]]>Nadine Cheung2011-12-05T09:40:00+00:00GMC 'Let's Trade Secrets Challenge' Home Improvement Runner-Uphttp://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-home-improvement-runner-up/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-home-improvement-runner-up/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-home-improvement-runner-up/#commentsFiled under:



The runner-up of the GMC Let's Trade Secrets Challenge in the home improvement category is Benjamin Riddering. No stranger to making custom reclaimed furniture in his home state of California, Benjamin demonstrates how to make paths and patios using old brick for a beautiful mosaic-like effect.

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]]>Nadine Cheung2011-12-05T09:30:00+00:00GMC 'Let's Trade Secrets Challenge' Cooking Winnerhttp://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-cooking-winner/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-cooking-winner/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-cooking-winner/#commentsFiled under:



The grand prize winner of the GMC Let's Trade Secrets Challenge in the cooking category is Alma Schneider. Alma took home the top prize with her easy and delicious edamame dip. This healthy and vegan recipe can be made in less than 10 minutes, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can wow guests and family members alike. Find out how to make her winning dip here, and stay tuned for Alma's GMC Trade Secrets video with Sam Talbot.



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]]>Nadine Cheung2011-12-05T09:20:00+00:00GMC 'Let's Trade Secrets Challenge' Cooking Runner-Uphttp://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-cooking-runner-up/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-cooking-runner-up/http://gmctradesecrets.aol.com/contests/gmc-lets-trade-secrets-challenge-cooking-runner-up/#commentsFiled under:



The runner-up of the GMC Let's Trade Secrets Challenge in the cooking category is Monique Kilgore. This wife, mother and blogger offers her five secrets to making an incredible Thanksgiving turkey. These great tips will keep your bird moist and delicious (no basting required), and can be used to make any holiday meal one to remember.


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]]>Nadine Cheung2011-12-05T09:10:00+00:00