Golden, bubbling, and irresistibly fragrant, this Butternut Squash Gratin is a celebration of fall flavors. The tender cubes of squash caramelize in the oven while fresh herbs and garlic infuse every bite with warmth. A final topping of parsley, cheese, or crisp breadcrumbs (or all three!) adds texture and depth, making this dish equally at...Read More

This dish was inspired by a memorable meal I enjoyed in New Mexico on my honeymoon. The flavors of roasted chiles, garlic, and cream left such an impression that I had to recreate it at home. My wife loved it so much, I reverse-engineered the recipe — and it has since become a special-occasion favorite....Read More

This smoky, spicy twist on classic potatoes au gratin comes from Chef Ted Walter of Passionfish in Pacific Grove, California. Layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes are baked in a creamy sauce flavored with garlic, tomato, chipotle, and smoked paprika, then finished with melted cheddar cheese. The result is a comforting, deeply flavorful side dish...Read More

Brussels sprouts are one of those vegetables that spark strong opinions—but when prepared well, they can be absolutely delicious. Blanching is one of the simplest, most useful techniques to bring out their best flavor and texture. Done correctly, it keeps the sprouts vibrantly green, tender without being mushy, and ready for everything from caramelized side...Read More

Catherine says, “This is a real family favorite and very easy! We use this as a spinach ravioli filling on my husband’s side of the family. On my side, we skip the pasta and serve it as a holiday side vegetable dish. Yum!” This versatile recipe is as at home inside delicate ravioli as it...Read More

Don’t be intimidated by the length of this recipe for tomato liquor—it’s actually a very simple process, just described in detail so you can get it right the first time. I call this “liquor” because it’s almost a distillation of pure tomato flavor. It has countless uses: boosting pasta sauces or soups made with lackluster...Read More

his cozy Swiss-inspired twist on the classic green bean casserole layers tender haricot verts in a creamy sour cream and Swiss cheese sauce, topped with golden, buttery breadcrumbs. It’s similar in spirit to the beloved Thanksgiving staple but elevated with Schoch Family Farmstead‘s Junipero cheese, a local variety that tastes much like a mild Swiss....Read More

This roasted green bean dish is a fresh, elegant alternative to heavier holiday sides. Crisp-tender green beans and earthy crimini mushrooms are tossed in a simple balsamic glaze, then roasted until caramelized and golden. A final sprinkle of Parmesan adds savory depth and just the right touch of richness. Best of all, it’s easy to...Read More

This vibrant green bean dish elevates a classic side into something special. Tender haricot verts are quickly blanched for crispness, then tossed with caramelized red onions, earthy Portobello mushrooms, and a splash of dry sherry for depth. A touch of thyme and butter rounds out the flavors, making this side dish elegant yet effortless. Perfect...Read More

Mashed parsnips are an underrated side dish that deserve a place at the table. Naturally sweet with an earthy depth, they have a texture similar to mashed potatoes but with a lighter, more aromatic flavor. Finished with butter, thyme, and a hint of nutmeg, they pair beautifully with braised beef, roasted chicken, or holiday roasts....Read More