Cooking for Aries

Aries are adventurous, fearless, innovative, edgy, lively, and love trying new things (Leonardo Da Vinci was an Aries). That means you have lots of options in making the perfect meal for your Ram. In particular, I suggest looking to Fusion cooking to give you all the variety, flavor and uniqueness that an Aries craves. If you’re unfamiliar with Fusion cooking – think of this as East meets West, or North, or South (or all four). It can be a combination of two different cultures, or a really unique mix and match of local bounty – really, the options are endless, which is a good thing because diversity fuels the Arian soul.

If you can find any edibles your Arian hasn’t tried they’ll be very excited to dig in! These folk don’t mind playing with their food (meaning interesting, eclectic finger food is also a nice choice. Examples here include mini lamb rolls using eggroll wrappers, Greek style deviled eggs, and a tofu fondue). While you might be tempted to repeat successful platters, don’t do them too often. The Ram will get bored and all your effort will be for naught. Because Arians are passionate communicators, small-bite food like an assortment of bruchetta will also prove very pleasing. This way your Aries can have great fare and talk in between each bite.

If you’re planning on eating out, I’d suggest seeking out signature diners – those nearly hidden gems that don’t blow your budget and still put out really good food. Remember however, that you should choose the restaurant as most Aries will choose what they think YOU want in a setting vs. something personally pleasing. Additionally, don’t be afraid to take a few friends along on the adventure. Aries appreciate good friendships where people share interests (in this case, food!)

Variety is the spice of life for your Ram, and speaking of spices they like seasonings that aren’t shy in the least. Note that the food need not be overly complex, just interesting and full-bodied (heat is sweet!). Here’s one sample recipe

Dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 1/2 Yoshida’s classic soy sauce

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 finely chopped garlic clove

1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

3 tablespoons rice vinegar

red pepper flakes to taste

6 cups loose greens

1 cup bean sprouts

sesame seed sprinkle

Toss the greens and sprouts with the salad dressing and chill for about 1-2 hours. Mix well before serving and top with sesame seeds (or alternatively sesame croutons). This is a great accompaniment to tacos, a rack of ribs dripping with mango sauce, herbed goat cheese stuffed banana peppers, etc. Don’t be shy – give it a try!

In terms of plating and presentation – let your Ram set the table and help you dish out the food. They love to fuss artistically and have an uncanny knack for setting a really amazing table that’s also completely functional for everyone present. There will never be a huge centerpiece on the table, for example, because Aries’ can talk through it! Just remember to have all the elements of your place settings ready for the ever-impatient Ram otherwise they’ll loose focus and move on to something else.

What about beverages? Anything that comes in red is acceptable – red wines, red juices, pink flavored waters, etc.. In particular Arians seem to like energy drinks, probably because they run full-throttle through life and need that extra boost to stay on their game.

For dessert forego the traditional cakes, pies, cookies etc. Aries likes somewhat tangy-sweet blends. Lemon or grapefruit cheesecake is one option (dot the top with thin slices of a favorite fruit and a drizzle of honey). Or how about cranberry nut bars, perfectly suited for snacking while watching a movie together.

One last piece of advice – try to remember that an Arian lives “NOW” – it’s not about what happened in traffic, or during the preparations. It’s not about what you’re doing later that night either. Each moment in the meal is it’s own celebration, which is really satisfying if you love to cook. You’ll find Aries will tell you about every nuance – even those that aren’t quite right – with verbal skills suited to Shakespeare.

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Heavenly Gifts: Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces

Capricorn

The easiest way to shop for a Capricorn is to understand their nature. The most important things to people born under this sign are their careers, stability and overall sensibility. Capricorns don’t get lots of things for themselves, so the gifts they receive will be treasured if the item is truly down-to-earth and pragmatic. Don’t bother with trendy chia pets (unless they grow herbs) or other fad items, for example. Instead find those items that help the Capricorn obtain goals like a solid planner for home and work.

Bear in mind that Capricorn has a frugal streak. He or she will be uncomfortable and awkward with overly expensive gifts. Value for the dollar is appreciated, value for the dollar that’s useful – even more so! Think along the lines of warm socks and slippers (to keep both body and spirit warm), or household items that round out the Capricorns desire to “nest” like an iron trivet or linens.

Garnet is Capricorn’s birthstone. If you’re thinking jewelry, remember that it should be useful – like a tie tack for men or a cloak/shall pin. Or, forego the jewelry and use garnet tones in a personalized, artsy gift basket filled with items that support your Capricorn’s hobbies or passions. Your time, effort and thoughtfulness will not go unnoticed. For clothing stick with comfort and functionality.

Finally, Capricorns keep their hearts very tied to family. To appeal to the organizer – give him or her a family photo calendar for the office.

Aquarius

If you’re shopping for an Aquarian this years, you have my sympathy. Aquarians are incredibly changeable and equally distractible. What interested them last week (or even 10 minutes ago) goes the way of the newest “pretty, shiny” thing or activity. Don’t despair, however. There is a solution – techno gadgets! For whatever reason Aquarians love the newest, coolest technological items, especially those that come with lots of bells and whistles to keep the Water Bearer from getting bored. Perhaps a web cam or a Nano would do the trick.

Convention isn’t the Aquarian’s strong suit. n some ways Aquarians are a bit like a hippie – bright colors, unusual lines, funky styles all seem to appeal to their artistic side. Tie die – yes! Work tie – no (unless it’s tyedied LOL). Even if your gift is simple, presenting it with a puzzle or poem that hints at what’s inside will both please and tease your Water Bearer.

One word of caution. Aquarians want something that show you actually thought about the gift for more than 5 minutes. Forget cheap, common, cookie-cutter items. Embrace the unusual, eccentric, mysterious, and wild. In fact, a CD with Motley Crue’s “Wild Side” might be perfect for your Water Bearer’s car.

Finally Aquarians are very global minded. Give this rebel with a cause a donation to their favorite charity made in his or her name.

Pisces

Pisces are the mystics and dreamers of the Zodiac, sometimes preferring fantasy to reality. With that in mind any gifts that allow them to escape for a moment (or a few hours) pleases the Fish greatly. Think about things like movie and play tickets, a short term get away, good fantasy novels, or even lush body care products with which your Pisces can pamper himself or herself.

Some key words to remember in shopping for a Pisces are beauty, creativity, sensuality, and spirituality. Also most Pisces have refined tastes, but hesitate to splurge on themselves. This gives you the perfect chance to step into the fray with an excellent wine, a gorgeous seascape painting, or a night on the town with lots of sights, sounds and flavors.

In the clothing department – go for shoes (or shoes and socks). Pisceans need supportive shoes but don’t spend the money for a really good pair (very often using that money for other members of the family or friends in need). Alternatively fuzzy slippers will make your Fish smile (especially if they are whimsical). Texturally, Pisces like fluid clothing – nothing that constrains, and it has to feel good against the skin. No itchy wool please.

Fish out of water also appreciate watery gifts. If you live near a beach, consider getting a gift certificate for jet skiing or sailing, for example. Inside the house, a salt water aquarium would be a huge hit.

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Heavenly Gifts: Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius

Libra

If you’re scratching your head trying to figure out what to get the ever-metered Libra in your life, music is one great option. Nearly all Libras treasure music. Choose a CD that they can use in the car or office on more stressful days. Or if you’re not sure about musical tastes an I-Tune gift card will certainly work!

As an air sign, Libras have a well-refined sense of smell. They’re often sensitive to bad odors, so a small air purifier would be a wonderful asset. Alternatively, find some light, clean smelling incense (nothing too heady).

In terms of the other senses, visually your Libra responds to flow and color. If choosing a statue, for example, it should seem nearly lifelike and offer vivid hues. This concept extends into the Libra’s wardrobe – nothing too constraining (Libras like flexibility in clothing and people) and rich, distinctive colors.

Most Libras are very social creatures and love to talk so a new cell phone or a pre-paid package for the existing one would keep the Libra “in touch.” If your Libra also likes to entertain, then gather up some refined party gear for him or her. Sleek Champaign glasses, unique linen holders, and tasteful centerpieces are examples that awaken the Libra love of beauty and symmetry. For the romantic Libra, go with gourmet chocolate, a soft fuzzy wrap, or something that reflects an intimate story that only the two of you know and understand.

Scorpio

Scorpios are incredibly fun to tease with gifts. They revel in a good mystery and the longer the suspense goes on the better. If there is any way you can make a “treasure hunt” of sorts for the gift, that would be truly enjoyed by the sporty spirit of our Scorpion (and also keeps the suspense going). Don’t forget to use an oddly shaped box so they can’t guess what’s inside too (or layer box inside box, inside tube, inside… well, you get the idea).

Speaking of mystery, books and films of that genre, or even memorabilia from a favorite story make Scorpios very happy. If your Scorpio isn’t quite that tame, then get a human size stocking and give yourself as a lusty present, complete with a bow and lots of things to untie! Be creative here – layer yourself just as you would a gift package.

For clothing, Scorpios tend to be very discriminating and lean toward fashion trends. If its something that feels sexy and sultry, even better. Scorpios have no problem with flaunting their erotic nature, especially for someone with whom they’re intimate. Along with that outfit, add some specially scented perfume or clothing and good massage oil for later on!

Last but not least remember that Scorpios have both competitive and perfectionist edges. Giving them a game that challenges and maintains interest appeals to that spirited nature. This could be a one-person computer game, but Scorpio would probably appreciate something interactive like a 2 player video game challenge. Alternatively gift them with a pre-paid class at night school where they can continue to refine an interest or talent.

Sagittarius

Don’t fuss too much when you’re wrapping your Archer’s gift. They’re not going to carefully pull off the tape and ribbons to re-use later. This is a grab-and-go moment! And what to put inside the wrappings? The first idea comes from Sagittarius’ love of the great outdoors. Anything that keeps them comfortable in nature will be more than welcome, like Alaskan mukluks, leg warmers, waterproof gloves, diving gear, and camping items.

Sagittarians also often have truly refined senses of humor. To appeal to their funny bone, get a DVD of his or her favorite comedian or a funny movie. Alternatively a night out at the comedy club would be great fun.

Unlike some signs, the Archer won’t be offended by gift cards. They understand that sometimes it’s hard to decide on just the right thing. So, certificates for bookstores, the local camping outlet, or the mall would all be welcome. Remember that the Archer always has an eye on adventure, so if you can tie that into the gift card, even better (maybe a certificate for the local casino or a miles card for an airline tucked inside a new suitcase!)!

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