Most people think of olives first when thinking of tapenade, but the word tapenade actually comes from the Provençal word “tapeno,” which means “caper.” I like to keep this in mind when making tapenade to remind myself to keep the balance between the caper and the olive, which can easily dominate this versatile paste. I...Read More

When it comes to preparing tender, flavorful meats, nothing beats the combination of a well-crafted marinade and the precise cooking technique of sous vide. Together, they unlock incredible depth of flavor while ensuring perfect doneness — every single time. What is Sous Vide? Sous vide (French for “under vacuum”) is a cooking method where food...Read More

Discover the satisfaction of creating your very own homemade hot sauce — it may even tempt you to ditch store-bought options! The possibilities are nearly endless for various combinations of hot chilies and seasonings to concoct your perfect blend. You can use all of one kind of pepper or chili or use a combination. The...Read More

With summer around the corner and seafood in abundance at the farmers market, now is the perfect time to brush up on how to choose and cook fish. This season you’ll find both fresh and frozen options from H & H Fresh Fish Company (Aptos Farmers Market), La Marea by the Sea (Monterey Farmers Market),...Read More

Nutty, hearty, and pleasantly chewy, spelt is an ancient grain that makes a versatile base for countless dishes. Toasting the grains before simmering brings out their warm, aromatic character, while cooking them with herbs infuses subtle depth. Spelt is excellent as a side dish, tossed into salads, stirred into soups, or even used as a...Read More

Why buy spice blends when you can make them fresher, cheaper, and better at home? Homemade seasoning mixes cost just a fraction of the price of store-bought versions and contain none of the anti-caking agents or fillers often added to commercial blends. Start with fresh, high-quality spices, and store your mixes in airtight containers to...Read More

Transform your dishes with this simple yet irresistible hot honey recipe! Perfectly balancing sweet and spicy, this versatile condiment enhances everything from appetizers to fried chicken, grilled salmon, roasted vegetables, and cornbread. It even adds a delightful kick to tea or cocktails—and makes a thoughtful holiday gift for food-loving friends and family. Thanks to our...Read More

Turkey is one of the easiest birds to cook, but many feel daunted by the ‘star of the show’ importance placed on the main course during the holidays! Here’s our tried and true method for cooking a turkey that results in a beautiful presentation, and is also super flavorful and moist, too. The drippings will...Read More

Kale and collards are hardy greens you’ll see at the farmers market nearly year-round, but they’re at their sweetest after a cold spell. The chill in the air coaxes out natural sugars, turning these leafy vegetables into flavorful, nutrient-packed staples for hearty winter cooking. Choosing the Best Leaves Look for bunches with supple, succulent leaves...Read More

Most families have favorite stuffing or dressing recipes that have been passed down for several generations. If you weren’t privy to the early Thanksgiving morning kitchen activities as a kid, there’s a chance you may have missed watching Mom or Grandma making their signature stuffing. There are many stuffing recipes and variations from region to...Read More