The Choke

This artichoke pesto has a pronounced fresh artichoke flavor. It makes a great dip or spread, and it can turn a simple steak or piece of fish into a gourmet treat. Keep it on the shelf for making last-minute hors d’oeuvres--put it on endive leaves or in mushroom caps or hollowed-out cherry tomatoes.

Bella Cucina Artichoke Lemon Pesto, 6-ounce jar $7.35 from Surfas Restaurant Supply & Gourmet Food, 8825 National Blvd., Culver City. (310) 559-4770.

The Crunch

Alvarado St. Bakery’s soy bread has become a favorite in our family. It has a nice crunch from the wheat berries, sprouted soybeans and toasted soy nuts. Each slice of bread has 70 calories and just 1 gram of fat and 1 gram of sugar.

Sprouted Soy Crunch bread $1.99 from Trader Joe’s stores.