TIPS FOR VEGETABLES/HERBS

1. Chopping cilantro takes away its aroma.  It's better just to remove the leaves from the stem.

2. When seeding jalapeno peppers, I advise wearing thin plastic gloves to avoid irritating your skin or your eyes.

3. It is best to cut fresh dill with kitchen shears instead of a knife.  While dill does not require washing, it does lose its flavor quickly.  If you are serving a recipe that calls for fresh dill as leftovers, you should add a little extra fresh dill.

4. Basil leaves discolor if they are chopped. It is best to tear them to the desired size.