When I call this “Italian style,” I mean it. I first heard this recipe while waiting in line at the Aptos Farmers Market, listening to two elderly Italian women chatting in a lively blend of English and Italian. Their conversation sounded so delicious I finally asked them to share the recipe. They laughed, called me...Read More

Bright and aromatic, this blackberry-thyme mignonette is a lively twist on the classic oyster accompaniment. The natural sweetness of blackberry vinegar softens the briny punch of oysters like Kumamotos or Malpeques, while fresh thyme and shallots add depth and balance. It’s equally delicious drizzled over gravlax or used as the base for a vinaigrette—just whisk...Read More

This versatile vinaigrette was originally created to complement a Strawberry Spinach Salad, but it pairs beautifully with much more. Try it drizzled over peppery greens like arugula, mizuna, or mei quin with earthy mushrooms, or use it as a finishing touch for grilled fish or pork skewers. The key to success lies in restraint: both...Read More

This savory zucchini “jam” is a rustic Mediterranean-style spread or side dish that captures the sweetness of summer squash, tomatoes, and basil. Slowly cooked until soft and jammy, it’s delicious warm with grilled fish or chicken, or cooled and spread on crostini, tucked into sandwiches, or served alongside cheese and charcuterie. INGREDIENTS: 1 rib of...Read More

This elegant appetizer was first created for a party—and it was such a hit that it has become a recurring favorite at gatherings ever since. The vibrant colors of ruby beets, creamy green avocado, and delicate microgreens make a striking presentation, especially when layered in a ring mold for height and drama. The flavors are...Read More

Inspired by the flavors of the Southwest and rooted in traditional “three sisters” ingredients—corn, beans, and squash—this vibrant chopped salad is hearty, fresh, and endlessly adaptable. Originally conceived as a succotash side dish, it evolved into a colorful raw salad when the crisp vegetables proved irresistible before cooking. With sweet peppers, tomatoes, onions, and a...Read More

Green Garlic Jam is a savory-sweet condiment that captures the fleeting freshness of young garlic. Slowly cooked with onion, thyme, and a splash of wine, the alliums transform into a golden, jammy spread that’s mellow, complex, and slightly sweet with just enough bite. It’s versatile enough to serve on toast, swirl into pasta sauces, or...Read More

Think of how often a dish begins with a simple sauté of onions, carrots, and celery. In Italy, this classic trio is called soffritto. In France, the same combination cooked in butter is known as mirepoix. For everyday cooking, I prefer using a light-flavored olive oil or even a neutral oil like grapeseed, so I...Read More

Summer squash are another New World food with deep culinary history. Zucchini—originally known as cocozelle in Italy—were bred there and brought to the United States by immigrants. By the 1920s, the Tuscan name zucchini became the word we use today. How to Purchase and Store Summer Squash Choose wisely: Look for squash that feel dense...Read More

If you’ve ever tried pastured or grass-fed meats, you know they taste richer, cleaner, and more “real” than their grain-fed counterparts. But there’s one important thing to keep in mind: these meats are naturally leaner, which means they need a little extra care in the kitchen. With the right techniques, you can bring out their...Read More