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

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