This Broccolini with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a simple yet elegant side dish that celebrates fresh, vibrant flavor. Tender-crisp broccolini is lightly blanched, then tossed in a tangy-sweet balsamic dressing infused with Dijon mustard and garlic. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens every bite, creating a versatile dish that’s equally delicious served warm or chilled. Perfect...Read More

Bright, buttery, and irresistibly simple, this Broccolini with Lemon and Garlic makes a perfect side for any meal. Tender broccolini is blanched to preserve its vibrant color, then sautéed with fragrant garlic and lemon zest for a burst of fresh flavor. A final drizzle of olive oil and squeeze of lemon bring balance and shine,...Read More

With its striking fractal pattern and delicate flavor, Romanesco is a beautiful cross between cauliflower and broccoli—and roasting brings out its nutty sweetness. This simple preparation uses olive oil, garlic, and a hint of cumin to enhance its natural flavor while keeping the florets crisp-tender and caramelized at the edges. A perfect side dish for...Read More

These Caribbean-Spiced Sweet Potatoes capture the sunny warmth and bold flavors of island cooking — a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and gently spicy. Baked until tender, the sweet potatoes are glazed with a fragrant blend of fresh orange and Key lime juice, dark rum, brown sugar, and allspice, then infused with the subtle heat...Read More

A creative twist on traditional lasagna, this Polenta Lasagne—inspired by the vegetarian kitchen at the University of California, Santa Cruz—layers creamy herbed polenta with savory tomato sauce, seasoned tofu, and garlicky sautéed spinach. The result is a deeply satisfying, plant-based main dish that’s hearty enough for everyone at the table. The soft, rich texture of...Read More

Delicately sweet and buttery, Caramelized Tokyo Turnips are a simple yet elegant way to highlight this tender Japanese variety of spring turnip. Unlike their larger cousins, Tokyo turnips are mild, crisp, and slightly nutty when raw—but they transform into golden, candy-like morsels when gently caramelized. This quick side dish pairs beautifully with roast chicken, braised...Read More

This quick and flavorful Stir-Fried Green Beans with Hoisin and Ginger brings together the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy. Hoisin sauce—often called the “Asian ketchup” for its versatility—is rich and slightly smoky, while fresh ginger adds a bright, spicy lift. Together, they turn simple green beans into an irresistible side dish that pairs...Read More

This elegant yet homey dish is a gentle riff on the French classic petits pois à la française — sweet green peas slowly braised with scallions and delicate butter lettuce. Though lettuce may seem unusual in a warm dish, its subtle sweetness and silken texture melt beautifully into the peas, creating a light, buttery sauce....Read More

Who would have thought that the humble dandelion — the same plant we try so hard to remove from our lawns — would rank among the USDA’s top four most nutritious greens? These wild, earthy leaves are packed with vitamins and minerals and make a deliciously bold side dish when quickly sautéed with garlic, onions,...Read More

This simple and elegant dish turns tender summer zucchini into a vibrant vegetable “pasta” that captures the essence of the season. Using a mandolin or fixed-blade slicer, the squash is transformed into long, delicate strands that resemble spaghetti — then quickly sautéed with golden onions, garlic, and fresh herbs until tender and silky. A swirl...Read More