Pears ripen from the inside out. Choose pears that are a little firm and have a slightly fruity aroma.

Pineapples do not ripen after they are picked, so don't buy them if they are underipe and expect them to ripen when you get them home.

Root vegetables are those that mature underground like potatoes and carrots.

Zucchini, yellow crookneck and straight-neck squash share many of the same cooking qualities and may be interchanged in most receipts.

Potatoes will roast in half the time if they are boiled for 5 minutes, then put into a hot oven.

Pea soup and other starchy foods will not boil over if the top inch or two of the inside of the pot is rubbed with oil.

Frozen ground meat should be removed from the freezer, wrapped and placed in the refrigerator to thaw the night before you wish to serve it.

Processed meats are an excellent source of high-quality protein.

"Marbling" the fine flecks of fat within the lean meat, is the key to selecting top quality meat. The fat cooks away, leaving a tender juicy piece of meat.

Chicken is a great choice if you are counting calories. A 3 1/2-ounce serving (without skin) has only 136 calories.

Thighs and other less expensive chicken parts may be substituted in many recipes calling for chicken breasts.

Sliced chicken or turkey breast can be substituted for veal for a less expensive dish.

Eggshell color is determined by the breed of the hen and has no effect on the quality, taste or nutrient value of the egg.

Cakes may turn out heavy and soggy if the oven temperature is too low.

Cakes my fall if the oven door is opened too soon, if the oven is too hot or if there is not enough flour in the batter.