Hearty, smoky, and full of flavor, Calico Beans are a classic Midwestern comfort dish that goes by many names—Cowboy Beans, Cowboy Calico Beans, or in our family, “Halloween Beans.” No matter what you call them, this colorful medley of beans simmered with bacon, beef, and a sweet-tangy sauce is always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for chilly...Read More

Whole grains are nutrient-dense foods packed with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They’re also a healthier alternative to refined carbohydrates. If reaching the recommended three servings a day feels daunting, try simple swaps: add grains to soups, salads, or main dishes, or enjoy them as a warm breakfast cereal. Love crunchy textures like popcorn? Many...Read More

Chef Hannah Cook of Coming Home Personal Chef Services demonstrated this elegant risotto at the Market to Table cooking event. Creamy and deeply flavorful, this classic Italian rice dish is made with Arborio rice simmered in stock and white wine, enriched with butter and Parmesan, and finished with fresh herbs and sautéed mushrooms. Comforting and...Read More

This fragrant rice dish is a vibrant twist on a classic side, blending the earthy sweetness of basmati rice with the rich, iron-packed goodness of spinach. Fresh cilantro and a touch of jalapeño bring brightness and heat, while aromatic spices like cinnamon, garam masala, ginger, and garlic infuse each grain with warm complexity. It’s a...Read More

Nutty quinoa and roasted chestnuts form the hearty base of this jewel-toned salad, while bright citrus, peppery arugula, and bursts of pomegranate seeds add layers of freshness and flavor. The result is a dish that’s light yet satisfying, colorful enough to brighten any winter table, and versatile enough to serve as a wholesome side or...Read More

This Chestnut Risotto with Wild Mushrooms brings together two quintessential flavors of autumn — earthy mushrooms and sweet, nutty chestnuts — in a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. The chestnut purée enhances the risotto’s natural creaminess, while roasted chestnut pieces add a satisfying bite and depth of flavor. Paired with sautéed wild mushrooms,...Read More

Nutty farro makes a hearty, flavorful base for this simple pilaf, while fresh green onions and sage lend brightness and depth. The dish is an easy side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or seasonal vegetables. Using white wine and a splash of good olive oil elevates the flavor, but it remains wonderfully...Read More

Farro is an ancient, unhybridized form of wheat, also known as emmer wheat. It has recently gained popularity alongside spelt, though the two grains are often confused. They are not the same: spelt (Triticum aestivum spelta) takes longer to cook and usually benefits from soaking, while farro (Triticum dicoccum) cooks more quickly and has a...Read More

This quinoa salad is simple, delicious, and packed with plant-based protein. It's an easy dinner idea you can make ahead and refrigerate, ready in under 30 minutes. Healthier than potato or macaroni salad, it offers a nutritious alternative to summer side dishes.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