Ways

Balsamic "Caviar". Glistening, pearl-like spheres of flavor. That explode on your tongue. And nothin' says loving' like a few in-mouth explosions. Serve them on strawberry slices. Sounds romantic. Looks cool. Tastes great. Definitely a conversation piece.

Gals, please don't tune out. Super Bowl-watching might be a guy thing, but decades of experience tell me that snacking is gender neutral. Put out a bowl of popcorn and all hands dive in. Here's my guide to Better Cheaper Tastier Snacking.

A wonderful winter soup you make in a few minutes. Rich but light. Nourishing and deeply flavorful. Less than $1 for two servings. Your Chinese New Year resolution.

For dessert. What a Way to finish a meal. Sweet and tart. Refreshing and satisfying. And it counts as a full fruit serving. If I were a bettin' man, I'd bet you'll lick your plate.

What every vegan's been waiting for: a big bite of something juicy, crunchy, tasty and greasy you can hold in your hands. OK, not greasy. Just slightly sesame oil-y. The breakthrough is the "bun": fried soba noodle cakes. Crunchy and soft. Pungent, sweet, salty, sharp and bright.