Seasoned Cooking: 11 May 2012 Announcements

A little nostalgia for a favorite carnival treat becomes the inspiration for a great cake. Layering a beautifully spiced apple cake with pillows of apple filling and a rich coating of sweet, sticky caramel results in bliss. Add a generous sprinkling of chopped peanuts and you've got a cake that's paying proper homage to the best carnival caramel apples.

Did you know beer has ideal serving temperatures, just like wine? It can also be paired with foods and other beverages. It even has health benefits! Find out more about beer with a fun infographic from FrugalDad.com and then check out Madison's Craft Beer Week event guide and, if you are in the area, get out and learn even more.

Seafood is quick and easy to make. Using your microwave makes it even moreso. Before you get concerned that rubbery seafood is a guarantee, consider this guide to cooking delicate fish and seafood perfectly using your microwave and get a great recipe for Mussels With Garlic Cream Sauce.

When you're putting together a casserole, what's your go-to topping to give it that extra flavor and texture? I'm sharing my favorites and asking you to do the same. Some are tried and true, while others are a bit more unexpected. Add in the option of layering and the possibilities are endless!