Cherry nice

Glossy bing cherries have arrived again at local grocery stores. If you’re looking for a different way to eat them (like chomping them straight out of the bag isn’t good enough), the California Cherry Advisory Board recommends Crispy Romaine Salad with Smoked Turkey and Bing Cherries. The salad balances savory and sweet, and the cherries and mandarin oranges add a splash of color. To make it, toss the following ingredients in a bowl: 1 head chopped romaine lettuce, 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup diced scallions, 1 11-ounce can mandarin oranges, drained, 1 cup smoked turkey cut into 1/2-inch cubes. Prepare Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing by whisking together 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon stone-ground mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/4 teaspoon salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Drizzle dressing over salad, reserving 1 tablespoon. Add reserved dressing to 2/3 cup bing cherries, pitted and halved, and toss. Arrange salad on four plates and sprinkle with cherries.

Thrill of the grill

If you know a killer griller, nominate him or her to become “America’s Grilling Champ.” The grand prize winner will receive $10,000, a Weber Summit 450 gas grill (pictured) and a one-year supply of Kraft barbecue products. To nominate someone, write a 100-word essay describing what makes the entrant a potential grilling champ and submit it online at www.kraftfoods.com or www.weber.com (click on the “America’s Grilling Champ” logo) or mail your essay to: America’s Grilling Champ Contest, P.O. Box 5590, Ellenton, FL 34222-5005. Deadline for entries is July 7.

Tray bien

Tupperware’s dining trays are a new twist on an old-school idea. Keep your food neat and separated during a backyard barbecue or picnic without having to raid the cafeteria. They cost $27.49 for a set of four and are available at www.tupperware,com or through a Tupperware consultant. To find one, call (888) 919-8099.

Tidbits is hungry for news about local food products and events. Send your Tidbits by mail to: Bangor Daily News, attn: Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor ME 04402-1329; by fax to 941-9476; or by e-mail to kandresen@bangordailynews.net.