Foods on Your Plate Never Have to Touch Each Other Again

Rachel Sumner
Jun 04, 2014

Picture your dinner plate. Now imagine your potato salad touching your chicken or your tacos leaning up against your refried beans. Freaking you out yet? We hear ya. Most of us put our salad in a separate bowl because if dressing mixes with pasta sauce, it’s a major problem. So it’s safe to say that there are a lot of people in this world who don’t like their food to touch, roll or spill together. Plate Pals is your solution to keeping it separated.

Inventor Michael Cameneti came up with Plate Pals to help finicky eaters of all ages. The colorful, plastic set of three are your plate’s new best friends. Just clip on a pal, and you’ve essentially created a mini plate for each item on your dinner plate. The larger blue clip provides an elevated surface, the yellow clip is meant for condiments and sauces, while the pink one was designed to stop rolling. (Hello, corn on the cob.)

While these dishwasher-safe (and easy to use) saviors are not yet in stores, you can head on over to Quirky and help the maker figure out pricing for the set.

Would you buy Plate Pals if you could? Let us know in the comments!

25 Zany State Fair Food-Inspired Recipes

The season’s just not complete until you’ve seen a sculpture made of butter and stuffed your face full of charred sweet corn, funnel cakes and whatever absurd exotic meat you can find. Fairs are full of memories of candy and petting zoos (essentially every child's favorite things) and it's easier than you think to add some of your favorite state fair foods into your weeknight dinner — without having to leave the comfort of your home.

From the classic to the ridiculously ridiculous, we’ve dug up all sorts of recipes to help you make a feast of state fair-inspired foods at home. Your apartment and hair may forever smell like a deep-fryer afterwards, but it’s a small price to pay.

Image via Brit + Co

Homemade Funnel Cake

If you're a big fan of fried goodies, then you *have* to make this treat. It's the perfect mix of hot, sticky, and sweet, and definitely satisfies those fair food cravings. You can split it among a bunch of people like your friends or your family...or you can eat it all yourself.

Image via Saveur

State Fair Corn Dogs

Even with all the new, hyped-up, experimental foods each year, there’s nothing like a classic corn dog. This recipe calls for a Dutch oven in lieu of a deep fryer.

Image via Fresh Tart

Gluten-Free Fried Cheese Curds

FRIED. CHEESE. CURDS. It’s only fitting that a Minnesota blogger would get this wholly Midwestern indulgence exactly right.

Image via Leite’s Culinaria

Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

This might be the most American thing to ever have happened. We recommend you don’t skip the optional white chocolate ganache topping. U-S-A. U-S-A. U-S-A…

Image via Food.com

Puckerin’ Pickle Popsicles

Half of you are probably gagging right now, half (like us) are pretty excited to try this weird pickle juice pop. Cocktail possibilities, anyone?

Image via James vs. Burger

Krispy Kreme Burger

Apparently, Luther Vandross claimed to have come up with the Krispy Kreme burger while on tour. Because, why not?

Image via Kirbie’s Cravings

Fried Cookie Dough

We’re digging this fried cookie-dough concoction. It’s simple if you buy the store-bought stuff.

Image via Leite’s Culinaria

Frozen Chocolate-Covered Bananas

There’s always money in the banana stand. This recipe — which mixes the peanut coating with pieces of crispy bacon — is MONEY.

Image via Pioneer Woman

Caveman Pops (Roasted Turkey Legs)

Inspired by the behemoth meat drummies of state fairs and Medieval Times alike, a good brine makes this recipe a success.

Image via BS in the Kitchen

Cherry Pie

If you’re looking to take home a blue ribbon, here’s the secret.

Image via The Little Kitchen

Fried Mac and Cheese Bites

It is your duty as an American to deep fry everything, including macaroni.

Image via Framed Cooks

Maple Chocolate Bacon Skewers

There’s nothing more fair-friendly than chocolate-covered bacon on a stick.

Image via The Messy Baker

Fried Avocado

Oh, California. You would try to keep healthy with your fair food. Well, not exactly healthy… but it’s no fried Coke.

Image via Serious Eats

Deep-Fried Coca-Cola

This dish involves infusing Bisquick batter with real Coca Cola — don’t you dare try to use diet in this Southern fair recipe.

Image via Bon Appétit

Deep-Fried Spaghetti and Meatballs On-a-Stick

Minnesota is at it again. Do the laws of physics even apply to this?

Image via Food Fire

Grilled Corn Sweet Corn

If you need a break from all the fried fodder, sweet corn is a must!

Image via Created by Diane

Fried Oreos

Anybody can fry a Snickers bar, but we are partial to the creamy, gooey Oreos.

Image via King Arthur Baking

Cream Puffs and Éclairs

This is Wisconsin’s official dessert. At their state fair, it’s served on a large dinner plate.

Image via Dude Foods

Beer and Bacon Battered Deep Fried White Castle Sliders

Get outta here, Orange County. What have you done?!

Image via Half Baked Harvest

Monster Crunchies

Just in time for the back-to-school season, these monster crunchies are a wacky snack the whole family will love.

Image via Tornadough Alli

Kool Aid Pickles

Kool-aid can be great by itself but pairing it with pickles creates a sweet and tangy treat you'll surprisingly want more of.

Image via Pink Owl Kitchen

Southern Fried Green Tomatoes

Deep fried foods and state fairs seem to go hand-in-hand. We're not complaining though.

Image via Where Is My Spoon

Puff Pastry Plum Tarts

Craving something sweet and sticky? Bake this easy puff pastry plum tarts recipe. You'll love the sweet blend of plums, brown sugar and flaky crust.

Image via Cilantro Parsley

Flamin Hot Cheetos Corn (Elote)

This is grilled sweet corn's spicier sister. With flaming hot cheetos baked on top, this corn on the cob recipe is going to quickly become a guilty food pleasure.

Image via Cozy Cravings

Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies

What happens when you mix chocolate, peanut butter and rice krispies together? You get treats that are sure to give you a sugar rush.

What’s the craziest fair food you’ve ever eaten? Let us know on Instagram!

This post has been updated.

Header image via Kirbie’s Cravings

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Hold Up, Did Rebecca Yarros' First 'Onxy Storm' Excerpt Just Tease Violet Sorrengail's True Identity?

Fans of Fourth Wing are on pins and needles because Rebecca Yarros just announced she's finished writing the third book in the Empyrean series! It's us, we're fans — along with over half of BookTok.

We can't believe we're getting closer to reading more about Violet Sorrengail's journey, but we know you have a ton of burning questions about the release date for Book No. 3.

We may not have all the answers, but we've done a little digging to share as much as we can because who doesn't want to know what Rebecca Yarros has been up to?

I'm new to the Empyrean series. Are "Fourth Wing" and "Iron Flame" really worth reading?

Amazon

I'm not going to lie to you. The editorial team, including myself, are extremely biased about Fourth Wingand Iron Flame. From my perspective, I think these are great books for anyone who had the pleasure of growing up during the great Harry Potter era and moved on to watchingGame of Thrones and House of Dragons.

Did she announce the name of book no. 3?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

YES! Book No. 3 is titled Oynx Storm.

Knowing what we do about the manifestation of Violet's powers, I think this could hint she's going to play an even larger role in the series. According to a fan theory shared on TikTok(via Empyrean Riders), it's believed that Violet and Xaden Riorson are actually gods. Stay with me here.

Empyrean Riders noted that Violet's last name means heavenly and that she's able to control time thanks to her connection to the young dragon Andarna (I love her so much!). That sounds pretty god-like to me.

And when asked which two Taylor Swift songs describe Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros chose "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" from The Tortured Poets Department and "So It Goes..." from Reputation. "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" is one of Taylor's most powerful songs and definitely translates the idea that Violet's powers are going to be stronger than ever, while "So It Goes..." is equal parts suspense and seduction, and is TOTALLY about "all the pieces fall right into place" to get together with the right person.

There's so much more to unpack so I suggest grabbing a yummy snack while you fall down the rabbit hole. All I'm sure of is that Onyx Storm is going to leave our emotions in shambles just like Fourth Wing and Iron Flame did.

When did Rebecca Yarros announce she's done writing book no. 3 in the series?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

On June 17, Rebecca Yarros shared this image of her laptop to indicate she'd finished the third book in the Empyrean series.

She wrote, "(Pic from one of the very many locations in which this book was written)," towards the end of the caption before adding a few relevant hashtags to it.

When will Onxy Storm be available for purchase?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

Rebecca Yarros exclusively told Good Morning America that fans can expect the book to hit shelves January 21, 2025! That gives us a little over six months to prepare our emotions for what's sure to be a storm of a book.

She said, "There will be politics, new adventures, old enemies and of course, dragons." There's no way she could forget the dragons because I'd willingly riot over them. They deserve to have their stories told forever.

As luck would have it, Cosmopolitan received an exciting first look at what's to come in Onyx Storm. The excerpt begins with Violet realizing the Venin have found their way into Basgiath War College and are wreaking havoc. Alongside Rhiannon, Sawyer, and Ridoc, she races to stop the Venin from releasing Jack Barlowe from his prison cell.

However, Violet's shocked when she discovered one of the "dark wielders" has a long silver braid that closely resembles her own. Before she can fully react, the woman disappears. According to Screen Rant, there are possible theories about why Violet saw her and what this means for her growing power.

Towards the end of the excerpt, Violet discovers the Venin want to capture her too. Also, Xaden makes his long-awaited appearance and it's clear their playful banter in the face of danger hasn't changed. That he hasn't fully changed into the Venin Violet's used to seeing.

I officially can't wait to read the rest of the book in January!

Has Rebecca Yarros revealed the cover for Onyx Storm?

Today/Bree Archer, Elizabeth Turner Stokes for Entangled Publishing

Onyx Storm

Yes!

TODAY received an exclusive look at the cover for Onyx Storm and it doesn't disappoint! Unlike its predecessors, it appears Rebecca Yarros is hinting that darker events will take place.

Fans of the Empyrean series aren't the only ones who are excited to see what fate has in store for our favorite characters though. In a statement to TODAY, Rebecca revealed how elated she is to be working on the series again. "It's amazing to be back with these characters again. She also said, ""I can't wait for readers to see what Violet, Xaden, and the rest of the quadrant have in store for them in Onyx Storm!"

Are you excited for the release of Onyx Storm? Follow us on Facebook for more entertainment news!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

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10 of the Most Interesting Finds on Amazon Right Now

Your shopping list could be a little more *interesting,* couldn’t it? Yes, of course, you need to get those essential items like shampoo and laundry detergent, but perhaps it’s time to treat yourself to something that you don’t see every day. Amazon‘s Interesting Finds section is like a treasure trove of whimsical products that are still wildly useful in your day-to-day life. Take a look at some of these quirky finds that are just dying to hop into your cart.

LABANCA Womens Mini Bucket Shoulder Bag

Spring is officially here, people. You don’t need any other excuse to invest in a cute new bag. Show off your sharp style at the farmer’s market with this cactus bucket bag.

MDRN Life Watermelon Neck Pillow

A comfy neck pillow is just what you need on your next flight to stay fresh as a slice of midsummer watermelon. Is there anything this juicy melon can’t do?

Pinsanity Retro Boombox Enamel Lapel Pin

Your Spring denim could use a bit of pop. This retro boombox adds a bit of ’90s pizzazz to an everyday jean jacket.

Abbott Collection China Gold Lipstick Mug

This coffee cup makes the bane of every lipstick wearer’s life into a pretty gold detail. Even though your liquid lippie is staying put, you can still pretend to leave your mark on your mug.

Mkono Bird Self Watering Globe

Never forget to water your plant babies again. This glass bird takes the guesswork out of having to water your indoor plants and looks good while doing it too.

SMOKO UNI Unicorn Night Light

Who says you’re too old to have a night light? Bask in the warm glow of this pink unicorn as you drift off to dreamland.

Clay in Motion Handwarmer Mug

Keep your hands as warm as your hot coffee, tea, or chocolate on chilly days with this inventive, colorful mug. It has a special handle that covers your fingers so they can feel warm and toasty as you drink.

Le Creuset Stoneware 16-Ounce Honey Pot

This classic-looking honey pot looks like something you’d find on Winnie the Pooh’s dinner table, and that’s what makes it so irresistible. Drizzle just the right amount of honey on whatever your fancy with this pot and silicone dipper.

ZaH Cute Animal 3D Coffee Mug in Panda

As you drink your morning coffee or tea, you might find a tiny friend has come to join you. This adorable mug hides a tiny animal figure at the bottom that is revealed as you finish your bevvie of choice.

Phillipi Mesh Bowl

Some fruit bowls are works of art themselves. This trippy, geometric bowl can display your go-to fruits for a quick snack, or use it for decoration on your coffee table.
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WHICH Movie Had Kate Winslet "Sh—ing" Herself?!

Kate Winslet is THE Hollywood actress to me. Not only has she starred in box office smashes like Titanic and Avatar: Way of Water, but she's proven her acting chops in breakout indie flicks and provided mothers and daughters everywhere with eternal Christmas movie nights thanks to The Holiday. But the actress' consistently viral kindness, her dedication to embracing her natural beauty, and her sophistication don't mean she always feels confident. Kate Winslet just spilled on the one movie from her career that had her "sh—ing" herself, and I just had to dive in.

Here's what Kate Winslet had to say about her scariest movie experience ever.

  • Kate Winslet made a name for herself with Titanic, Sense & Sensibility, and The Holiday.
  • However those movies aren't the film she wants fans to ask about!
  • The actress spills on the movies she's proud of, and the one job that had her "sh—ing myself."

Talking to Vanity Fair for her newest film Lee, Kate Winslet revealed one project she wishes fans asked about more is Iris. The 2001 film stars Kate as a young Iris Murdoch against Judi Dench's older counterpart. And for Kate, nothing was more terrifying than working with such a wonderful actress.

"People don’t really ask me about Iris. It’s such a delicate film," she says. "It was the first thing I had done after having my daughter. Going to work with a baby, I’m playing Iris Murdoch, looking to Judi Dench’s older Iris Murdoch — I was sh—ting myself."

Considering how nervous I get when I meet my heroes, I can only imagine what it was like to meet Dame Judi Dench. Talk about a dream! Another film Kate loves is Revolutionary Road, and not just because she got to reunite with Leonardo DiCaprio.

"The thing that people say is, 'You got to work with Leo again.' Then they go off on the whole Leo tangent, which I totally understand," she says of the film, which follows an ambitious couple who find themselves trapped in the reality of 1950s suburbia. "But Revolutionary Road — f—king hell, it just knocked us all sideways. Unbelievably difficult material. I was very proud of that film and what Leo and I were able to create as Frank and April. It was so brutal."

The process for getting Lee into the world sounds equally brutal, considering Kate started working on it over a decade ago. As producer, Kate tells Vanity Fair she doesn't mind the fact she's done more for the film than if she only had an acting credit. "That has felt very necessary for this film. But it’s also just really important to me," she says. "It’s important to me that people know that it’s out there and might feel compelled to go and see it."

Because it turns out, commercial success or stardom on its own doesn't actually help your movie get made! "It doesn’t matter who you are," she says. "No one’s going to go, 'Oh, I’ll just back that pony because she was in Titanic.' It doesn’t happen that way, and I never expected that. That’s really important to say."

"I've gotten older and I’ve learned more and felt more confident in myself about whether or not I could actually do it," she adds. "It’s not something I would’ve done had I not felt so passionately about the subject, and Lee was just—she wouldn’t let me go."

Let us know your favorite Kate Winslet movies in the comments, and since we've officially entered cozy season, check out Why The Holiday Movie Ending Is The Most Important Scene while you're at it!

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Here's A New Look At Florence Pugh's Return As Yelena Belova

Marvel movies are known for their heroes and their hopeful outlook on the world. But in 2025, we're getting a brand new team: the Thunderbolts. This team is made up of antiheroes and former villains, and it's sure to be the wackiest and strangest, as well as one of the most memorable, superhero movies we've seen in recent years.

Keep reading for the latest news on Thunderbolts* before it hits theaters in 2025.

Marvel Studios/YouTube

Thunderbolts* comes out this May, and the cast just showed off some brand new footage at the D23 convention — and thanks to the new 'Celebrating 85 Years' spot, we have the first look too!

We get a look at Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, John Walker, and Ghost. Plus, Yelena Belova, of course. This heartbreaking detail about Yelena's new look connects Florence Pugh's Yelena to Scarlett Johansson's Natashaand I'm WEEPING.

Marvel Studios/Walt Disney Studios

And at D23 Brazil, we got a brand new look at my new favorite team. "There’s something in this film, in terms of superpowers and superheroes, that shows that our superpowers lie in how ‘broken’ we are," David Harbour said at the event. "As if our superpowers came from our relationships.”

What is the plot of Thunderbolts?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Plot

Consider Thunderbolts* to be The Avengers' edgy younger sibling. The movie follows Yelena Belova (who we know off the bat is a "depressed assassin" thanks to a Marvel Studios press release). She's joined by Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, and John Walker. Based on a leak, it looks like we'll see this group of misfits team up against Valentina Allegra de Fontaine after she sends them on a deadly mission.

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Jesse Grant/Disney

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Thunderbolts* hits theaters May 2, 2025.

Who's on the Thunderbolts team?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Cast

Thunderbolts* stars Florence Pugh, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour.

This is a huge cast, and Viswanathan just revealed how crazy the first day of filming was. “My first day didn’t feel real," she tells Vanity Fair. "I felt this extra pressure of, ‘Know your lines, babe. You can’t really play around like you usually do.’"

Historically, sci-fi fans haven't been kind to actresses in their favorite projects (remember when Star Wars fans bullied Kelly Marie Tran off social media?). But Viswanathan is already thinking ahead. “If it’s overwhelming, I’ll log off. But I like discourse around pop culture,” she says. “[Thunderbolts*] felt a little bit edgier and fresher, more existential and dark.”

Jesse Grant/Disney

The rest of the cast also enjoyed working together. “Everyone is going to f—kin’ love me! It’s really, really, really fun to be with a group of actors that you have a good time with," Wyatt Russell says at Comic Con (via Variety), while David Harbour adds, “Florence Pugh [is] just electric to work with. There’s warmth and humor, but there’s also a lot of pathos.”

“This is why we can't stop laughing together, because we genuinely just had such a wonderful time with each other and we've loved working with one another," Pugh tells People. “I feel like this is something that we've never seen before from Marvel...it's a very open and honest and truthful idea. And I'm just really excited for people to watch it.”

Are you excited for this brand new chapter in the MCU? I really feel like Thunderbolts* will usher in a whole new generation of fans and I, for one, CANNOT WAIT! Let us know your thoughts on Facebook.

Lead images via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

This post has been updated.

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