This dressing is natural for anything sharp and nutty such as arugula, sprouts, or escarole. INGREDIENTS: 3 tablespoons cider vinegar 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon apple cider 1 teaspoon honey mustard or Dijon-style mustard 1/4 teaspoon fresh minced thyme Salt and pepper to taste 3/4 cup grapeseed or other neutral-flavored oil METHOD: In a...Read More

I like the Tourangelle line of nut oils. I find them to be full-flavored, fresh, and relatively inexpensive for the quality, which I find to be consistent. INGREDIENTS: 3 tablespoons good quality balsamic vinegar 1 small shallot, peeled and minced Salt and pepper to taste 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh thyme 1/2 tablespoon sweet-hot mustard 4...Read More

Boiled quail eggs have a sweet and nutty taste reminiscent of hazelnuts — hence, the inspiration for this salad. The soft creamy yolk is a nice foil for the crisp greens with their bit of bite and the crunch of the hazelnuts. Pieces of juicy crunchy apples are a perfect foil for the rest of...Read More

A simple, fall dessert —  for a stunning presentation, plate with a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. These baked pears are equally good served at brunch! INGREDIENTS: 4 pears, any variety, almost ripe (peeled) 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/3 cup butter 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1...Read More