This quick and vibrant spinach dish brings a bold Spanish flair to the table with the warm smokiness of Pimentón de la Vera (smoked paprika) and a bright splash of sherry vinegar. The flavors are layered yet simple—earthy greens, nutty crunch, and just the right touch of acidity. Inspired by Chef Andrew Cohen’s focus on...Read More
Part of the key to keeping this recipe simple is choosing longer, slender eggplant such as Japanese, Chinese, or Italian varieties. Their shape makes them easy to cut into slices or chunks for skewering, and their tender skins need no peeling. A quick marinade of orange juice, lemon juice, or white wine infuses bright flavor,...Read More
This quick-pickled shallot recipe is an easy way to make a condiment with big impact. The sharp-sweet flavor and crisp texture pair well with a wide range of dishes. Use the same method with small purple onions to garnish steaks and hot dogs, or enjoy the shallots with smoked salmon and cream cheese crackers for...Read More
Nutty farro makes a hearty, flavorful base for this simple pilaf, while fresh green onions and sage lend brightness and depth. The dish is an easy side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or seasonal vegetables. Using white wine and a splash of good olive oil elevates the flavor, but it remains wonderfully...Read More
Farro is an ancient, unhybridized form of wheat, also known as emmer wheat. It has recently gained popularity alongside spelt, though the two grains are often confused. They are not the same: spelt (Triticum aestivum spelta) takes longer to cook and usually benefits from soaking, while farro (Triticum dicoccum) cooks more quickly and has a...Read More
This bright, herbaceous dressing brings together the fresh flavor of cilantro with the sweetness of honey and the tang of citrus. It’s a versatile recipe that works beautifully as a salad dressing for tender spring greens, but it doesn’t stop there—it doubles as a flavorful marinade for chicken, meats, or tofu, and makes a quick...Read More
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
