When Chicagoans get lost on the cooking trail, they call the Chicago Tribune’s test kitchen, where Donna Pierce helps them find their way. “Often it’s a person in the middle of doing a recipe and they have panicked,” she says. “I always think of it like when the pilot calls the air traffic controller and we’re trying to help them to land.” Echo spoke with Pierce about how college students can successfully set up their kitchens. First, she says, invest in the right cooking supplies. “You need one big, deep skillet, not a whole set of pots,” she says. With a deep skillet you can grill sandwiches, fry eggs, and simmer soups and chili. Cast iron ...

It beckons. It calls. You’re standing in front of the vending machine again during your class break. Stop scrounging for change and don’t settle for a Snickers. Follow these recipes and you can become a vending machine connoisseur. Twinkie Strawberry Shortcake This light, airy dessert is delectable after a heavy dinner. It’s refreshing on a hot summer day and can brighten up a gloomy fall afternoon. Serves 4 to 6 6 Twinkies, cut in half length-wise 16 ounces whipped cream 1 basket strawberries, sliced 1 strawberry, sliced and fanned Place half the Twinkies on a dish, filling side up. Layer half the sliced strawberries on top of the Twinkies. Spread half the whipped cream on top of the berries. Place the remaining ...

The break bell rang like a siren’s call. I was salivating as I filled my lunch tray with roasted chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, crisp green beans and delicate apple pie. I pulled out my wallet to pay and my heart dropped as I realized the only thing in my wallet was stale leather. I left the line, accompanied by the echoing sound of my growling stomach. So much for lunch! I resolved right then and there that I would never rely on money for food again. Sunday - Whole Foods Market I yearned for organic food, so I started at Whole Foods Market (1000 W. North Ave.). I acted like I was shopping, not trolling for free samples. I knew ...

Local wine shops are just itching to introduce you to the lure of the grape. Even if you are an amateur on a budget, attending free tastings can make you feel like a sommelier. You can walk away with a bottle you’ll be proud to serve for about $10. Wine Discount Center 1826 N. Elston Ave. 773.489.3454 www.winediscountcenter.com FREE Tasting Every Saturday 12 to 4 pm About 300 people make their way through this shop every Saturday to sample new wines, gins, vodkas and cognacs. Hard-core tasters bring their own glasses so they can swirl and let the wine breathe, but the shop provides mini plastic cups. On a budget? “The stuff you’re going to ...