Garlic fries seem to be everywhere these days—some unforgettable, others regrettable. The key, I’ve learned, is balance: plenty of garlic flavor without letting it burn or overpower. After several failed attempts, I discovered the secret to perfect oven fries—a touch of sugar. Deep-frying naturally caramelizes potato sugars, but baking doesn’t, so a pinch of sugar...Read More

This elegant dish captures the taste of late summer on a single plate—fresh halibut seared to golden perfection and served over a colorful medley of corn, peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes, all brought together by a luxurious saffron corn sauce. Sweet, savory, and aromatic, this dish balances coastal simplicity with fine-dining refinement. The crisp-tender vegetables and...Read More

This Blackberry Coulis is a simple yet elegant sauce that captures the pure essence of ripe summer berries. Smooth, vibrant, and deeply flavored, it adds a touch of sophistication to any dessert—from panna cotta and cheesecake to ice cream or pavlova. With just three ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. A quick savory...Read More

This Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet—deep, rich balsamic vinegar meets the warm caramel notes of pure maple syrup. The addition of shallot adds subtle sharpness, while a neutral oil gives the dressing a velvety finish. Ideal for green salads featuring fruit, especially blueberries, it also doubles beautifully as a...Read More

This Orange Basil Cream Dressing combines the citrusy brightness of fresh orange juice with the delicate sweetness of cream and the fragrant lift of fresh basil. Light, silky, and refreshing, it pairs beautifully with tender greens, berries, and mild cheeses like mozzarella—but it’s just as lovely drizzled over cold shrimp, chicken, or a crisp slaw....Read More

This light, summery salad balances creamy, sweet, and herbal notes in every bite. Tender butter lettuce forms the perfect base for juicy blueberries, toasted nuts, and soft mozzarella, all brought together with a fragrant Orange-Basil Cream dressing. It’s delicate yet layered—fresh citrus and basil highlight the fruit’s brightness, while the nuts add just enough crunch...Read More

This Persian-inspired lamb dish layers rich, aromatic flavors—succulent lamb seared to perfection, sweet-tart pomegranate syrup, and a cooling finish of fresh mint. The sauce, made with reduced cream and pomegranate, creates a luxurious glaze that coats each tender bite. Bright, bold, and beautifully balanced, it’s a quick yet impressive dish to serve over rice, pilaf,...Read More

Elegant and earthy, this Pan-Seared Sturgeon with Silky Carrot Sauce celebrates local, sustainably farmed sturgeon from the Sacramento River. The meaty, buttery texture of the fish pairs beautifully with a fragrant carrot sauce infused with warm spices or fresh thyme. The sauce’s natural sweetness and vivid color elevate the dish into something both simple and...Read More

Inspired by the classic American succotash, this version takes a bright, modern turn with the bold, sun-kissed flavors of the Southwest. Instead of simmering, Chef Andrew Cohen gives the vegetables a quick sauté, preserving their freshness, crunch, and natural sweetness. Snap beans stand in for traditional limas, and layers of onion, bell pepper, corn, and...Read More

This lively, aromatic stir-fry is Chef Andrew Cohen’s take on the classic Sichuan dish known for its bold heat, deep flavor, and slightly blistered beans. Traditionally made with Chinese yardlong beans that are oil-blanched before stir-frying, this version uses a clever high-heat roasting method inspired by Barbara Kafka’s Vegetable Love—a faster, cleaner technique that produces...Read More