This vibrant slaw is one of my go-to recipes for summer barbecues, potlucks, and casual gatherings. With its colorful mix of crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, fresh scallions, and bright cilantro, it’s as beautiful on the table as it is delicious on the plate. The dressing takes it to another level—creamy mayonnaise balanced with tangy rice...Read More

This roasted beet salad is a beautiful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Tender roasted beets are glazed with a balsamic reduction and paired with peppery watercress, creamy blue cheese, and crunchy toasted nuts. The result is a dish that feels both rustic and elegant—perfect as a starter for a dinner party, a colorful...Read More

This Brussels Sprouts with Arugula and Walnuts Salad is a warm, hearty dish that balances sweet, earthy, and peppery flavors. Tender Brussels sprouts are simmered in apple juice for a subtle sweetness, paired with caramelized butternut squash (or pumpkin), and tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. Fresh arugula adds a peppery bite, while toasted walnuts provide...Read More

This vibrant pasta salad is summer in a bowl—bright, fresh, and full of zesty flavor. The creamy lime-cilantro dressing brings a tangy kick with just a touch of heat, pairing beautifully with sweet corn, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the buttery richness of avocado. A sprinkle of Cotija cheese adds a salty, savory finish, while optional...Read More

This is a twist on Insalata Caprese, the ubiquitous tomato, mozzarella, and basil “salad” that often features as a starter when tomatoes are in season. This version, however, is more of dessert-meets-the-cheese-course. The basil syrup called for in the recipe was developed originally for making grown-up sodas. INGREDIENTS: 1 pint strawberries, tops removed and cut...Read More

A refreshing and colorful salad, perfect for summertime. INGREDIENTS: Salad 1 head Romaine lettuce, medium-chopped 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup diced green onion, some green included 1 can (11-ounce) mandarin oranges, drained 1 cup smoked turkey, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 2/3 cup Bing cherries, washed, halved, and pitted Balsamic Vinaigrette 1/3 cup extra-virgin...Read More

An elegant looking appetizer with lots of bright flavors, perfect with a glass of something bubbly or a dry white wine. INGREDIENTS: 8-12 paper-thin slices prosciutto (enough to cover a 12-14 inch platter) 1/4 pound wedge Pecorino-Romano cheese 1 pound purple asparagus, fattest spears, trimmed and peeled 1 Meyer lemon, cut in half Extra virgin...Read More

Not a fan of goat cheese? Feel free to substitute it with feta or blue cheese. Mache, also known as lambs lettuce, has a slightly nutty taste. INGREDIENTS: 2-3 red beets, oven-roasted in foil until tender 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 cup olive oil 1 cup hazelnut oil 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar Salt and...Read More

This wholesome winter salad recipe by Melissa Rubel Jacobson of Food & Wine, gets a double dose of hazelnuts: hazelnut oil in the rich dressing and toasted hazelnuts in the salad. INGREDIENTS: 3 1/2 cups butternut squash, diced into 1/2-inch cubes 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 1/2 cup hazelnuts,...Read More

Here is a protein-packed, stick-to-your-ribs winter salad full of bright California flavor that is healthy and tasty. Double the recipe and enjoy it for lunch the next day.  INGREDIENTS: 1 15-oz can chickpeas (or 2 cups cooked), drained and rinsed 2 cups fresh spinach (packed) 1/4 cup red onion, chopped finely 3 tablespoons lime juice...Read More