This elegant Pesto Cheese Torta is a crowd-pleasing appetizer layered with creamy, buttery cheese and vibrant homemade basil pesto. It’s rich, flavorful, and beautifully simple to prepare ahead—perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or wine nights. Served with crisp crackers or crostini, each slice reveals alternating layers of green and white that make a stunning presentation...Read More

Few desserts are as timeless—or as comforting—as a classic pound cake. Rich, buttery, and delicately golden, this cake has the perfect balance of moist crumb and tender texture. Whether served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with juicy summer fruit like peaches, berries, or macerated strawberries, it’s a dessert that never goes out of...Read More

This Fresh Lemon–Strawberry Sparkling Lemonade is sunshine in a glass—refreshingly tart, lightly sweet, and bursting with real fruit flavor. Fresh lemon juice gives it zing, while puréed strawberries (or raspberries) add a beautiful blush of color and natural sweetness. Finished with a splash of sparkling water, it’s the perfect drink for brunch, afternoon picnics, or...Read More

Inspired by the vibrant street foods of Pakistan and India, this Garbanzo and Pomegranate Chaat Salad is a celebration of color, texture, and flavor. The earthy warmth of toasted cumin, the sweetness of pomegranate, and the citrusy tang of lime come together in perfect balance. Fresh cucumber, onion, and cilantro add crunch and brightness, while...Read More

This Tuscan Marinara Sauce, known in Italy as Pomarola Toscana, is a rustic tomato sauce that celebrates the pure, sun-ripened sweetness of summer tomatoes. Made with a medley of fresh herbs, vegetables, and olive oil, it’s slow-simmered to coax out depth and richness while preserving the vibrant freshness of the fruit. Perfect for tossing with...Read More

This Rainbow Crunch Slaw is as beautiful as it is delicious — a crisp, colorful mix of farm-fresh vegetables and fruit that brings a burst of texture and brightness to any table. Sweet golden and chioggia beets mingle with jicama, apple, and cabbage for a refreshing crunch, while a drizzle of poppy seed dressing ties...Read More

This Mediterranean Garbanzo and Feta Salad is a vibrant mix of creamy feta, briny Kalamata olives, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a lemon–harissa dressing that packs a little heat. It’s hearty enough to serve as a light lunch yet elegant enough to accompany grilled lamb, chicken, or seafood. With its bold flavors and...Read More

This Apricot Almond Milk Ice Cream is a silky, dairy-free delight — naturally sweetened with honey and rich in flavor from sun-kissed dried apricots. The almond milk adds a delicate nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the bright fruit, creating a frozen treat that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s simple to make and perfect for anyone...Read More

In Mexico, squash blossoms—known as flores de calabaza—are a beloved seasonal ingredient, often folded into soups, tamales, and quesadillas. Their subtle sweetness and tender texture pair beautifully with creamy, melting cheese, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refined. These Squash Blossom Quesadillas capture the essence of summer: earthy roasted poblano, fragrant epazote, and delicate...Read More

As a beloved regular at the Aptos Farmers Market, Nadine Frush is often seen filling her basket with produce from her favorite local farmers. She grew up learning to cook from her French mother, who instilled in her a deep love for simple, flavorful food made from fresh ingredients. One of Nadine’s kitchen staples is...Read More