Here is a very tasty and simple side dish that will become a family favorite in no time. Since pine nuts are very expensive these days, I substitute sliced almonds or pistachios. INGREDIENTS: 1 pound broccoli florets 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 teaspoon minced garlic...Read More
The beauty of this dish is its simplicity — we serve it throughout the year. Fruity hot olive oil coats the leaves, with a splash of lemon to brighten the flavors. For a special treat, use crinkly Bloomsdale spinach or combine it with tender chard, young mustard, and beet greens. Just remember to wilt the...Read More
This mouthwatering version of macaroni and cheese is from one of our farmers market vendors, Evette Lecce, owner of Pensi Pasta Company. You can find her fresh pasta at the Aptos, Monterey and Carmel markets including a selection of gluten-free varieties. INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. fresh Pensi Pasta macaroni 1/4 cup butter 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour...Read More
These Greek lemon potatoes are crispy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside and make a delicious side dish for roasted lamb, chicken, or beef. INGREDIENTS: 7 large russet potatoes, cut into wedges 3/4 cup olive oil 3/4 cup water 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon dried Greek oregano 2 lemons, juiced 1-2 teaspoons...Read More
INGREDIENTS: 3 tablespoons oil 3 cups shredded carrots, peeled and trimmed 1/2 onion, sliced finely 2-4 garlic cloves, de-germed and minced 1 tablespoon of herbs of your choice 1/4 cup white wine Salt and pepper to taste METHOD: Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the oil. When the oil begins to shimmer,...Read More
INGREDIENTS: 1 large celeriac, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thin, kept in water 4-5 large Yukon Gold, Yellow Finns, or Russets, sliced 1/8 inch, kept in water 2 large brown onions, peeled and sliced ¼ inch thick 6-8 sprigs fresh thyme, marjoram, savory (or a combination), minced Salt and pepper to taste 1 clove garlic,...Read More
Here’s a twist on glazed carrots with Moroccan accents. While the orange flower water is not essential, it really does add an extra dimension that’s delightful and mysterious all at once. INGREDIENTS: 1 bunch carrots (1-1½ pounds), peeled and cut into quarter-inch thick slices on the diagonal 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1/2 tablespoon sugar or...Read More
Here’s a variation of my favorite cauliflower preparation. If the oranges and really dark, like a prime season Moro, it may stain the outside of the cauliflower dark for a cool visual. INGREDIENTS: 1 head of white cauliflower, cored and cut into florets, florets halved 2 ripe Moro or Tarocco (or other) blood oranges 1...Read More
Here’s a winning combo – comfort food plus great nutrition! Serve these crispy-baked sweet potato “fries” as an appetizer or as a side dish with turkey burgers. INGREDIENTS: For Sweet Potatoes 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika (or hot paprika,...Read More
Chef Charles Phan of the Slanted Door, one of San Francisco’s hottest Asian bistros, shares his coveted recipe for braised pea greens seasoned with the flavors of garlic and sesame. This preparation complements fish or chicken dishes beautifully or can be served over rice for a light lunch. INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. fresh pea shoots (New...Read More