Learning to chop is a fundamental basic, and knowing the right way to use a knife is key for both speed and safety.

• The proper way to hold a knife is between your thumb and forefinger.
  
• The proper way to chop is to push down and move forward.
  
• Smashing garlic with the back of your knife is an easy way to mince garlic.
  
• Rub your hands with stainless steel under running water to remove garlic odor.
  
• Mastering basic cooking techniques will make you a more efficient chef.

Dry Heat Trading Company
Tucson, Ariz
520-670-1700
www.dryheattrading.com
talavera hand-painted plates, $26 each; tin chargers to combine with talavera plates, $10 each; sugar mold used for a table centerpiece, $120

Target
www.target.com
bamboo placemats, $3; white tablecloths for the dinner table, $13; 20-piece flatware set, $30 per box; baskets used to hold plants, $13 each; cacti, $5-7

Bristol Farms
Carson, Calif.
310-233-4700
www.bristolfarms.com, corporateinfo@bristolfarms.com

Canyon Ranch Spa
Tucson, Ariz.
800-742-9000
www.canyonranch.com