Tart-sweet and full of character, this Ground Cherry Relish makes a delicious twist on the traditional cranberry relish served at Thanksgiving. Ground cherries, also known as husk cherries or cape gooseberries, have a golden hue and a naturally sweet, slightly tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted meats. In Northern California, these little fruits are...Read More
In Italian, agro means sour and dolce means sweet — the perfect description for these sweet-and-sour cipollini onions. Beloved for their tangy, complex flavor, they often appear at the table as an elegant antipasto, paired with rustic cheeses, tossed into salads, or tucked inside a roasting chicken to infuse it with rich, caramelized notes. Their...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, nutty, and fragrant, this pesto takes a delicious twist on the classic by using locally grown California pistachios instead of imported pine nuts. The pistachios add a naturally rich, buttery flavor and a hint of sweetness that balances beautifully with fresh basil, cilantro, and lemon zest. It’s versatile enough to enjoy in countless ways:...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
Skip the store-bought bottle and whip up this bold, tangy steak sauce right in your own kitchen. Packed with layers of flavor from ketchup, Worcestershire, soy sauce, lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon, this sauce balances sweet, savory, and zesty notes beautifully. It’s simmered slowly to bring everything together, then strained for a smooth...Read More
If you love the tangy punch of bottled steak sauce, wait until you try this homemade balsamic version. Rich with the sweetness of honey, the depth of balsamic vinegar, and just the right kick of mustard and spice, it’s zesty, glossy, and irresistibly bold. Perfect for grilled steaks, burgers, or even roasted vegetables, this sauce...Read More
Rich, velvety, and deeply flavorful, this Roasted Garlic Bordelaise sauce transforms a simple roasted leg of lamb into a showstopping centerpiece. Slow-roasted garlic brings a mellow sweetness, while red wine, beef consommé, and a touch of Dijon and currant jam create layers of savory, tangy, and subtly fruity depth. Finished with fresh mint, this elegant...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
Use this fresh cilantro pesto on grilled chicken, or add to a chicken salad made with grilled chicken for a big flavor boost! Stir pesto into a little mayo and use as a sandwich spread. INGREDIENTS: 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted 6 cloves garlic...Read More
