An appetite for almonds

If you're feeling like a nut, the Almond Board of California has some ideas. For an easy snack, mix together 1/2 cup finely shredded, high-quality parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup sliced almonds.

Drop in eight small piles on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray or lined with parchment paper. Flatten each pile and bake at 400 degrees for 6 to 7 minutes. Remove and set aside until crisp, about 10 minutes.

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to three days.

A handful of almonds contains 164 calories, 6 grams of protein and 14 grams of fat. They are cholesterol-free and a good source of vitamin E and other minerals.

For more almond information, visit www.almondsarein.com.

Cereal fans get a book in the box

General Mills has found a way to fill the minds as well as the tummies of young Cheerios fans. The company is placing children's books inside Cheerios boxes from now until the end of the year.

The promotion is part of a campaign to promote reading and raise money for literacy programs. On the outside of the Cheerios boxes are forms for consumers to use to send contributions to buy books for needy children.

For more information, visit www.cheerios.com.

Kits: fit gifts for stockings

Running Press Book Publishers has stocking stuffers for tea lovers, bakers and cocktail fans - mini book kits.

The Cocktail Kit, for example, includes a 32-page book on how to make and serve cocktails as well as decorations to spruce up your glasses. Price is $5.95.

The Tea for Two kit includes miniature tea balls, a honey dipper and a booklet of tea-party recipes. Price is $7.95.

These kits and others are available in bookstores or can be ordered at 800-345-5359 and www.runningpress.com.

Risky business

Overeating may pose more dangers than indigestion. According to a report presented recently at the annual meeting of the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists, large quantities of some foods can trigger dangerous drug interactions for people on medication.

The scientists found that common spices such as garlic, soy, sage, thyme and cloves can react with drugs and cause headaches, rashes and life-threatening complications.

If you have concerns, the association advises consulting your doctor.

Events

* Enjoy a wine-and-cheese tasting from now until Dec. 23 at Berrywine Plantation and Linganore Winesellers, 13601 Glissans Mill Road, Mount Airy. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and Saturdays, noon to 6 p.m. Sundays. Tastings are free. Call 800-514-8735 for information.

* Learn how to decorate a gingerbread house noon Saturday at A Cook's Table, 717 Light St. $45. Call 410-539-8600.

* Taste Spanish wines from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday at Wells Discount Liquors, 6310 York Road. Call 410-435-2700 for information.