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Beat the Winter Blues: How Exercise and Delicious Salads with Vinaigrette Can Lift Your Spirits
Winter can drain energy and motivation as days grow shorter and routines shift indoors. The winter blues are common, but they are not permanent. Regular movement helps lift mood, improve sleep, and restore a sense of momentum, even in small doses. Pairing exercise with nourishing, balanced meals supports steady energy and mental clarity. With the right habits, winter can become a season of resilience rather than something to simply get through.

Cindy MacDougall
Feb 24 min read


Unveiling the Secrets of Smoked Pepper Sauce Uses
“Explore the versatile ways to enjoy Merci Mon Ami Smoked Pepper Sauce, from elevating grilled meats and roasted vegetables to spicing up dips, sandwiches, and gourmet recipes. Discover tips and creative ideas for adding smoky heat to every meal.”

Cindy MacDougall
Jan 203 min read


Enhance Your Meals with Gourmet Lime Salt
Lime salt is the perfect way to add a burst of citrusy brightness to any dish. From sprinkling it on grilled seafood to rimming cocktail glasses, this simple blend of zesty lime and coarse salt turns ordinary flavors into something extraordinary. Learn how to make, use, and savor this versatile seasoning all year round.

Cindy MacDougall
Jan 64 min read


Explore Unique Gourmet Dressings in Ontario
Discover Ontario’s finest gourmet dressings crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. From small-batch artisanal creations to award-winning sauces, these dressings elevate salads, roasted vegetables, and everyday meals into culinary experiences. Perfect for home cooks and food enthusiasts alike, exploring Ontario’s unique gourmet dressings brings local craftsmanship and unforgettable taste to your table.

Cindy MacDougall
Dec 20, 20254 min read


What It Means to Be Gluten-Free
Living gluten-free doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. At Merci Mon Ami, our gluten-free dressings and sauces are crafted in small batches to ensure every meal is safe, delicious, and full of bold taste. From salads to roasted dishes, choosing gluten-free options allows you to enjoy fresh, flavorful meals while accommodating dietary needs. Our approach shows that gluten-free eating can be both wholesome and gourmet.

Cindy MacDougall
Oct 8, 20253 min read


The City of Firenze
Florence, or Firenze, is a city where history, art, and culinary culture come alive. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s home to iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the Uffizi Gallery. Beyond its art and architecture, Florence’s vibrant food scene showcases traditional Tuscan flavors, from fresh markets to local trattorie. Every street offers a taste of heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable Italian cuisine

Cindy MacDougall
Aug 2, 20253 min read


Exploring Italy’s Iconic Simple Foods
Italy is celebrated for its simple, flavorful foods that highlight quality ingredients and traditional preparation. From wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta to creamy buffalo mozzarella and ripe tomatoes, Italian cuisine embraces freshness and authenticity. Exploring regional specialties, like Sardinian breads and local wines, reveals a culture where simplicity meets excellence, and every meal is a celebration of taste, heritage, and culinary craftsmanship

Cindy MacDougall
Jul 24, 20253 min read


The Magic of Chef Cindy's Sesame Soy Vinaigrette
Chef Cindy’s Sesame Soy Vinaigrette has redefined what a salad dressing can be. Crafted with a perfect balance of nutty sesame and savory soy, this small-batch vinaigrette elevates simple salads into flavorful, memorable meals. Loved by home cooks and chefs alike, it’s versatile enough for marinades, dipping sauces, and drizzling over vegetables, proving that a well-crafted dressing can transform everyday dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences.

Cindy MacDougall
Jul 14, 20253 min read


Healthy Eating = Healthy You
Healthy eating is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle that fuels your body and mind. Choosing fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients and preparing meals thoughtfully can boost energy, support overall wellness, and make everyday eating enjoyable. With simple swaps, balanced portions, and flavorful dressings like those from Merci Mon Ami, healthy meals can be delicious, satisfying, and easy to incorporate into your daily routine

Cindy MacDougall
Jun 19, 20253 min read


Merci Mon Ami's Sweet Chili and Garlic Sauce Wins Grand Champion at the Royal Winter Fair!
Merci Mon Ami’s Sweet Chili and Garlic Sauce has been crowned Grand Champion at the Royal Winter Fair, earning recognition for its bold, balanced flavor. Crafted in small batches, this award-winning sauce combines the perfect blend of sweetness and garlic for versatile use on grilled dishes, salads, and more. Celebrate a top Canadian artisanal sauce that delivers unmatched quality, taste, and culinary excellence.

Cindy MacDougall
Apr 5, 20252 min read


Chef Cindy's Easy Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Chef Cindy makes weeknight dinners simple, quick, and delicious. With easy-to-follow recipes using fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces from Merci Mon Ami, busy families can enjoy wholesome meals in no time. From one-pan dishes to versatile salads, these recipes prove that cooking fast doesn’t mean sacrificing taste, helping you bring nutritious, restaurant-quality flavors to your table any night of the week.

Cindy MacDougall
Mar 8, 20253 min read


Chef Cindy. Female entrepreneur, mom, and wife.
Chef Cindy exemplifies the balance of entrepreneurship, motherhood, and culinary passion. As the founder of Merci Mon Ami and co-owner of We Cater To You, she crafts award-winning small-batch sauces and dressings that highlight quality and flavor. Her journey as a female entrepreneur and leader in Toronto’s food industry inspires aspiring chefs and business owners alike, proving that dedication and creativity can drive both family and business success

Cindy MacDougall
Jan 23, 20253 min read


Elevate Your Beetroot Salad with the Perfect Sesame Soy Vinaigrette
Elevate your meals with a vibrant beetroot vegetable salad drizzled with Merci Mon Ami Sesame Soy Vinaigrette. Earthy beets, fresh greens, and crunchy nuts combine with the savory, nutty vinaigrette to create a healthy, flavorful, and visually stunning salad perfect for any occasion.

Cindy MacDougall
Jul 1, 20243 min read


First day of summer brings BBQ season
The first day of summer marks the start of BBQ season, when backyard grills sizzle and friends and family gather to enjoy fresh, flavorful meals outdoors. From juicy burgers and marinated skewers to crisp salads and savory sides, summer cookouts celebrate both food and togetherness. With the right sauces and dressings, like those from Merci Mon Ami, every BBQ can be elevated into a memorable, delicious experience

Cindy MacDougall
Jun 23, 20233 min read
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