A delightful twist on the classic Insalata Caprese, this salad replaces tomatoes with sweet, ripe strawberries for a dish that feels part dessert, part cheese course. Fresh mozzarella provides creamy balance, while a drizzle of basil syrup and a touch of balsamic vinegar create a fragrant, refreshing harmony of flavors. Light, elegant, and unexpected, it’s...Read More

This elegant summer salad pairs smoky-sweet grilled strawberries with crisp Little Gem lettuce, cool cucumber, and a tangy, mint-infused dressing. The quick balsamic marinade caramelizes beautifully on the grill, transforming fresh berries into a warm, jammy accent that contrasts perfectly with the chilled greens. It’s a striking salad for warm evenings — refreshing, unexpected, and...Read More

Making your own fruit vinegar is a simple and satisfying way to capture the flavor of fresh blueberries long after the season ends. There are two classic approaches: the slow method, preferred by purists who allow time to do the work of steeping and mellowing the vinegar, and the quick method, ideal for those who...Read More

This earthy, aromatic stuffing combines savory mushrooms, toasted nuts, and fragrant herbs with the unexpected brightness of fresh blueberries. The berries lend a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the umami of mushrooms and the crunch of roasted nuts. Ideal for stuffing duck, pork chops, or chicken breasts glazed with maple syrup and rosemary, this recipe...Read More

This deeply flavored sauce captures the sweet-tart essence of ripe blueberries balanced by the warmth of shallots, brandy, and fresh thyme. Unlike sugary fruit glazes, it’s a sophisticated, savory complement to roasted or grilled meats—especially duck, pork tenderloin, or game. A splash of cognac and balsamic vinegar rounds out the sauce, giving it a glossy...Read More

Sometimes you just crave a taste of childhood, and for me, this classic dressing takes me right back. Based on my taste memory of the Thousand Island served at the long-gone Marshall Field’s Department Store in Chicago, this version is creamy, tangy, and full of nostalgic charm. It’s delicious on turkey sandwiches or salads loaded...Read More

Don’t let the ingredient list fool you—this dish is elegantly simple once you see how the two components come together. Tender oyster mushrooms are simmered in a fragrant sake and soy mixture, then tossed with crisp bok choy that’s infused with a light ginger-garlic “tea” made from the vegetable trimmings. The concept was born by...Read More

Smoky, tangy, and full of character, this Tomatillo Chipotle Salsa is one of those indispensable sauces that belongs in every cook’s repertoire. Roasted tomatillos bring a bright, citrusy acidity, while smoky chipotles and roasted garlic add warmth and depth. This salsa is as versatile as it is delicious — spoon it over fish or shrimp,...Read More

Vibrant, aromatic, and impossibly fresh, this cilantro oil is a simple way to elevate everyday dishes. Drizzle it over grilled fish or roasted chicken, swirl it into a deconstructed salsa, or use it to turn sautéed summer squash into something restaurant-worthy. The bright green color and herbaceous flavor capture the essence of summer—but because it’s...Read More

Many sushi lovers are surprised to learn that the salmon served in sushi bars isn’t truly raw — at least, it shouldn’t be. Professional sushi chefs lightly cure the fish to ensure both safety and flavor. This traditional salt-and-vinegar cure firms the flesh, brightens the taste, and gives the salmon a clean, delicate texture that’s...Read More