Nuttin’ Like Good Corn

After Bill Mallory retired from teaching, he became a successful almond grower in the San Joaquin Valley. He experimented for nearly two years before he came up with a great caramel corn recipe--with almonds, of course--on his 40th wedding anniversary. Wedding Time “Heavenly Blend” Golden Almond Corn still ranks as his No. 1 seller. It’s delicious, fresh-tasting and chock-full of nuts. He also sells other varieties, including California Almond and Macadamia, Almond and Pecan, low-fat, fat-free and sugar-free/low-fat. Alas, the fat-free caramel corn logically has no nuts.

Caramel corn $3.50 to $3.99 per 8-ounce bag at Bristol Farms stores; Honey Baked Ham in Toluca Lake, Torrance, La Habra; and Santa Monica Seafood.

A Place for Bamboo

These scorched bamboo place mats have a unique “antique” look. Made of real bamboo, they make a handsome addition to any table.

Set of four place mats $30 from Siblings, Malibu.

For Zest Above the Rest

This zester is small with a short handle and easy grip, which makes zesting a snap and puts a peeler to shame. The no-slip handle is made of Santoprene, a heat-resistant rubber that makes it dishwasher safe. It also works as a channel knife for making long strips of citrus.

Zester $5.99 from Cook ‘n Stuff in Torrance, Bristol Farms stores, Home Economics in Long Beach and Macy’s stores, or call (800) 545-4411 for a store near you.

A Shot of Color

These hand-blown shot glasses are the creation of California artist Ginger Kelly, who now owns and operates her own studio in Washington state. The colored dots are applied to the glass while it’s hot, then the glass is shaped and blown.

Shot glasses $30 each from Freehand, Los Angeles.