Of all of the awards shows I love to watch (and I love to watch them all), the Oscars is my favorite. And it's a great excuse to throw a party. Many of my friends do the "red carpet" thing for their own parties and ask guests to dress in their black tie best. But I prefer watching in comfy clothes and snacking on simple but satisfying nibbles. After all, it's a very long show!

Looking for a few simple ways to freshen up the go-to dish of the Super Bowl? We cobbled together a mighty tasty basic guacamole, then came up with four ways to turn basic into unbelievably good.

First, a confession. I don't watch the Super Bowl. As a matter of fact, I rarely even know who is playing. Still, I'm well aware that it is far and away America's largest secular holiday and that the celebration requires not only watching the game on television, but also eating a hefty snack or meal while doing so.

With its robust blend of sweet, creamy, spicy and smoky flavors, this soup is perfect for a chilly fall afternoon. The beautiful orange color, the subtle smoky-spicy flavor of the chipotle, and the satisfying creamy texture make this recipe a perfectly seasonal lunch or appetizer. Consider topping the soup with seared shrimp or shredded pork for a quick weeknight dinner.

Caketini (2270 E. Williams Field Road, No. 114, Gilbert [480] 786-3500). Scottsdale has its Sprinkles, Gilbert has Caketini — a cute shop run by a family that’s been baking for generations. Sweet lovers will find gourmet cakes, truffles and massive, prettily decorated cupcakes. $

Blue Adobe Grille (144 N. Country Club Drive, Mesa, [480] 962-1000). The carne adovada plate is the highlight of the New Mexican dishes found at this award-winning establishment. There’s an excellent selection of Southwest infused seafood as well, including lobster tamales with mango salsa and raspberry chipotle. $$

If you've ever had a California roll, you've had nori.

If you’ve ever had a California roll, you’ve had nori.

For the football fan who cooks, tailgates are a beautiful thing.

Cash Mob Saturday Special at CK’s

Whether you prefer your tacos hard and crunchy or lean more to the softer side, this grilled shrimp filling perfect for a summer barbecue will leave you satisfied.

When I think about summer, I think about deviled eggs. Beginning with Easter and going straight through September, just about every activity — from camping and cookouts to beach vacations and July Fourth gatherings — can be enhanced by a plate of deviled eggs.

When I think about summer, I think about deviled eggs. Beginning with Easter and going straight through September, just about every activity — from camping and cookouts to beach vacations and July Fourth gatherings — can be enhanced by a plate of deviled eggs.

It seems like Shamon Bailey has been on the Mountain Pointe track for five or six years.

It seems like Shamon Bailey has been on the Mountain Pointe track for five or six years.

Chandler libraries are participating in a summer reading program for children 18 and younger, as well as adults.

Food Network stars are as common as May 5th margaritas, but few are as likeable and down-to-earth as Oklahoma ranch wife Ree Drummond, host of “The Pioneer Woman.” The award-winning blogger and New York Times bestselling author comes to Mesa Saturday to promote her newest release, “The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food from My Frontier.”

Ground seeds and nuts are a weeknight cook’s dream ingredient.

Ground seeds and nuts are a weeknight cook’s dream ingredient.

A new Chipotle Mexican Grill, set to open May 23, brings the promise of strong business and delicious burritos to the Village at Las Sendas shopping center.