Pick a few extra plums for this ultra-simple dessert. It's got both grown-up aesthetic appeal and a healthful hit of whole grain.
Lia's egg salad recipe combines the ease of egg salad with the spicy kick of traditional deviled eggs.
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
This meal is our family's traditional Christmas Day breakfast. Christopher mans the comal after the Santa festivities, while we all fill our coffee mugs and wait for our plates.
This strata is like a savory bread pudding; custardy on the inside and crisp on the outside. It’s a nod to the version my Aunt Judy makes . . . serious incentive to wake up.
Nothing showcases the culinary power of eggs quite like a soufflé. Serve this spinach souffle with a “Bon Appetit!” in your best Julia Child imitation and pair it with a green salad dressed in Mustard-Shallot Vinaigrette and dry white wine for a light supper.
This is one of my hands-down favorite easy dinners, and can also be transformed into an easy appetizer by topping crostini (and if you're feeling decadent, drizzling with truffle oil). Watch my video down below to see how easy these are to make.
Want to make bread at home? It's easy with this this no-knead bread recipe that lets time and yeast do most of the work for you.
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
This steel cut oatmeal recipe is a great make-ahead option for a healthy breakfast or a savory side dish.
Inspired by the Spanish dish of the same name, our migas combine day-old bread, leftover greens, eggs and sausage for a hearty one-pan dinner—or breakfast (but not to be confused with the Tex-Mex version using leftover tortillas or tortilla chips).
Roasted asparagus shines when topped with a luscious poached egg and crisp prosciutto in this easy spring dinner or brunch.
A super-quick and tasty hors d'oeuvre from simple pantry and freezer ingredients.
An Italian-style tuna salad, sans mayo, is delicious way to use premium, sustainably caught canned tuna.
Serve this flavorful filling with lettuce leaves and let everyone stuff their own to give a flavor of the communal nature of Thai meals.
Gougeres are the classic nibble with Champagne. Here, we give them a Spanish spin with manchego cheese . . . try them with a glass of cava.
These little spears are crowd pleasers. The cheese mixture keeps for up to five days, so you can prep everything ahead of time and then pipe just before people come to the door.
This tasty shrimp stir-fry is as versatile as it is simple to make. Serve it as an appetizer, over wok-tossed rice noodles or in an Asian-inspired noodle salad.
Mushrooms and Parmigiano-Reggiano are the kings of umami, amplifying one another’s flavor exponentially. Spinach and prosciutto add even more to the mix to make this hors d'oeuvre simply irresistible.
I find that finger food naturally slows down a meal and focuses attention. When you've got juice dripping down your wrist and have to reach over your neighbor for the lettuce platter, it's hard not to have the meal take on a different tenor.
This easy, flavorful recipe for chickpeas with blistered scallions makes a tasty main dish or side dish. Use leftovers for speedy meals later in the week!
These cakes are crispy and flavorful and delightful as a light meal on their own, or as an innovative finger food. Serve them with our Curry Dipping Sauce.
This easy recipe is a game-changer when it comes to cauliflower. Served with a simple aioli sauce, these roasted cauliflower will win over veggie haters.
I fell in love with these giant beans–often served as part of a mezhedes spread–in Athens. They're meaty, soaked through with flavor and thoroughly satisfying. To this day, my favorite way to enjoy them is still with toothpicks and a glass of ouzo.
I waffled about whether to name this ‘hummus' or ‘chickpea dip', but ultimately thought it veered far enough from tradition to go with the latter. It is, in any case, delicious. If you've ever had any doubt as to the strength of pounded garlic, this little dish will set you straight.
Leaving the shells on during grilling adds to the flavor of the dish. Be sure to source domestic shrimp so you know you're making a smart, sustainable choice.
These radishes add a bright note to sandwiches, salads, tacos and even atop pizza or flatbread. You can use any variety of radishes—from common red radishes to glorious watermelon radishes.
This nibble comes together super-quick once the favas are shelled, so you can whip it up and be back outside before the conversation even hits a lull.
These Greek-inspired fritters make great hors d’oeuvres or a light dinner served with tzatziki.
This is one of my hands-down favorite easy dinners, and can also be transformed into an easy appetizer by topping crostini (and if you're feeling decadent, drizzling with truffle oil). Watch my video down below to see how easy these are to make.
Peas definitely fall into the “can't get better than fresh-from-the-garden” category. Here, they end up in a gorgeous, Kelly-green coulis.
These are simplified versions of one of my favorite pizzas. If you’ve got white beans—either homemade or canned in the pantry—you can have this meal on the table in minutes.
Sometimes, to be true to yourself, you have to mix things up a bit. Which is just what we did to this party staple to make it more nourishing (and, dare I say, tastier) all around.
Pistachios and coarse sea salt come together in this salty-sweet brittle that’s delicious on its own or crumbled over ice cream or our Chai-Spiced Amaranth Pudding.
These easy cookies are a tasty way to showcase Fair Trade-certified chocolate. Make the dough in advance and bake the cookies when you're ready.
Our chocolate biscotti recipe is infused of orange flavor from freshly grated zest. Made with cocoa, chopped chocolate and pistachios, it's an ideal cookie.
Don't tell anyone these fudgy little brownies–simple as all get out and baked in a mini muffin tin–are made out of black beans. Wow them with the taste first, then surprise them with the secret ingredient.
Coconut sugar lends subtle sweetness to our Mexican-spiced chocolate pudding made with amaranth.
This dessert has a pudding-like consistency and decadently rich flavor . . . for about 30 calories more than a serving of low-fat Oreos.
These mini tarts taste like an oatmeal cookie topped with figs, honey and yogurt . . . only with a more grown-up look. They're the ultimate healthy dessert for summer.
One of my mom's springtime standards is strawberry-rhubarb pie. Here's my take in a rustic crostata. In any form, rhubarb's tart taste is a perfect foil to sweet strawberries.
A touch of whole wheat pastry flour boosts the nutrition in these classic oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
Traditional carrot cake gets a healthy makeover with our delicious carrot cake cupcakes, crowned with honey cream cheese frosting.
One of my favorite desserts to make during the holidays is Chocolate Truffles. They’re super easy and freeze beautifully which means you can make them well-ahead. This version features three flavors perfect for the Thanksgiving table—orange, bourbon and pecan—and packs a lot of pleasure in just a few bites. ~ by Jacqueline Church
This dish is a great one to make when you're stalled between fruit seasons. Frozen organic fruit is preserved at its peak and is a great time-saver when you want a quick dessert.
This recipe is inspired by Mexican chocolate, which is sweet, cinnamony, and nutty. The chile powder adds a touch of smoky heat, but you can omit it if you like.
The proof is in this pudding: moderation can mean indulgence too.
Pick a few extra plums for this ultra-simple dessert. It's got both grown-up aesthetic appeal and a healthful hit of whole grain.
This easy lemon curd recipe can be made with just three basic kitchen tools.
These are just about my favorite cookie in the world. They’re feather light, seemingly suspended together with dark chocolate chips, with a satisfying crisp-chewiness.
Use organic milk, eggs and a vanilla bean to make a luscious pudding.
Use our lightened, all-purpose pastry dough for sweet and savory pies!
Peanut butter, chocolate, popcorn and a sprinkle of crunchy sea salt … simply irresistible!
11 show-stopping cookies and treats that are perfect for a holiday cookie exchange or gifts.
This is a good choice for an all-purpose curry paste recipe to add zip to Asian dishes. The delightfully complex flavor is superior to jarred curry paste.
A traditional Indian condiment gets a spring makeover with fennel and mint.
The sugar and acid mellow out the intensity of the pepper for a salsa that’s tart and sweet with a hum of heat.
This easy vegetarian ragu is also an incredibly versatile little number. Toss it with pasta, serve it over polenta, or spoon it onto crostini smeared with goat cheese.
These pickled red onions come together in a flash to add bright flavor and crunch to all kinds of dishes.
This simple, springy pesto recipe is a versatile friend in the kitchen. Use to flavor whole grains, dollop on fish or chicken, or dress a bowl of pasta.
Pistachio Gremolata Gremolata is an Italian garnish typically used to add a touch of bright
Our easy aioli recipe combines a simple shortcut and authentic garlicky, lemony flavor while trimming calories and fat.
File this recipe under delicious aromatherapy, because your house will smell amazing as the onions roast. These flavorful onions are amazing atop pizza, chopped and added to cooked whole grains, and in our Rustic Roasted Onion & Spinach Tart. Be sure to use more mature spring onions with big bulbs at the end.
This homemade mayonnaise recipe is rich and tangy in a way that mayo from a jar can't duplicate.
When fresh tomatoes have gone out of season, turn to BPA-free canned tomatoes to whip up this speedy, multipurpose sauce.
Easy Homemade Plum Sauce I'd never thought of making plum sauce with dried plums (duh).
I first encountered this sauce at a remote resort in the Copper Canyon. It's simple, but deceptively flavorful. Use it as a rustic salsa or as a sauce spooned over grilled chicken.
Homemade chicken stock recipe is easy to make and has a mellow quality that makes it particularly versatile in soups and sauces.
Kick off your Thanksgiving feast–and set a relaxed pace–with a bowl of rich, creamy mushroom soup.
This recipe, my slightly off-kilter ode to harvest, was adapted from Micol Negrin’s gem of a book, The Italian Grill.
A turkey breast half is a great option for smaller Thanksgiving gatherings — or if you need a little extra meat to feed a larger crew.
Fig season is in full swing right now. Learn how to select figs, how to store and use them, and try our recipe for End-of-Summer Fig and Onion Chutney.
This is a great gravy to use when you're grilling a bird and don't have a pan to collect the juices. A quick turkey stock made from the neck and giblets (removed before the turkey roasts) is enhanced by a nutty roux and brightened by a splash of apple cider. As Nickie says, “it's the perfect autumnal gravy.”
Our elegant, make-ahead riff on traditional pie bakes pumpkin in a tart pan and tops it with a dollop of maple whipped cream and a sprinkling of toasted nuts.
This is an incredibly versatile side dish that shows just how delicious healthy can be. Serve it with a holiday turkey or a simple roast chicken. Or top it with a mushroom sauté for a meatless feast.
Farro is an ancient strain of emmer wheat that, when cooked in this manner, has a texture similar to risotto. You can find it in many specialty shops and also online at ChefShop.com.
If you're cooking for a couple or a small crowd on Thanksgiving–or any time of the year, really–this turkey breast is a serious winner.
There are so many things I love about this pasta. For one, it’s packed with loads of my favorite vegetables. For another, its incredible flavor is the perfect illustration of just how delicious healthy can be. But it also, to me, captures the essence of the change of season: summer’s bounty exuding a homey scent as it roasts in the oven, a portent of the many braises to come. What can I say? This dish truly nourishes me body and soul.
Mom's stuffing, made with packaged stuffing mix, gets a tasty, healthy update with whole wheat panko and fresh herbs.
This is the perfect tomatoe sauce to make with that extra pint of cherry tomatoes in your CSA box that’s sitting on your counter. Use it in a simple pasta or spoon it over a crispy chicken paillard.
Grandma Friese was famous in our family for writing out recipes that began with things like “Take a bottle of cream…” without any indication, for those of us who grew up in the post-milkman era, what the size of a “bottle” might be. And that’s the way this recipe was originally handed down to me. She used to make these cranberries way ahead of time and let them ferment; they have quite a kick.
To celebrate Nourish Network's first birthday, we have a special, spicy, moist pumpkin Bundt cake from baking expert Linda West Eckhardt!
This crumble-topped apple pie with a spicy cooked filling reminiscent of caramel apples is the stuff of happy autumn memories!
Chicken, pesto and a hot grill add up to a perfect simple summer dinner. Butterflying the bird makes this a quick whole grilled chicken recipe.
This not-too-sweet quick bread has a hearty character yet a tender crumb, so it's perfect for breakfast or a late-afternoon snack.
Traditional corn bread made in a cast-iron skillet gets an update with fresh corn, sun-dried tomatoes and sage.
Sweet, roasted fig paired with gooey cheese and salty prosciutto makes for a memorable summertime sandwich.
I fell in love with this simple, stunning Melone e Limone (Melon and Lemon) appetizer recently as a simple way to showcase fresh, ripe, peak-season fruit.
Whip up a batch of this caramel popcorn as a special Halloween treat for your favorite little goblins.
These Brussels sprouts will go down in my history book as the sprouts that flipped my daughter from a sprouts hater to a sprouts lover.
Tuck leftover Thanksgiving turkey into this simple, zesty casserole.
Try amaranth instead of corn polenta in our update on a simple Italian side dish.
I’ve made this dish successfully with all kinds of greens, but I like tender baby spinach and bok choy derivatives the best. Keep in mind that you want a touch of water clinging to the greens, but not so much that they’ll swim when they’re wilting. Note: If choosing tough-stemmed greens like chard or beet greens, slice the stems into 1-inch lengths.
Pearled barley yields a creamy, toothsome risotto. And here’s your language lesson for the day: The Italian word for barley is orzo (not to be confused with the rice-shaped pasta of the same name), and risotto made with barley is called orzotto. Yes, we probably should call this orzotto, but most people will think of this as risotto. In any case, it’s delicious by any name. This recipe also would be tasty with pearled farro (labeled farro perlato) if you find it at gourmet markets, in which case, this would be farrotto.
This entrée salad — with healthy quinoa and crispy snow peas and cabbage — makes a generous amount, and that’s okay, because leftovers hold up nicely for lunch another day.
I’ve been stocking my pantry and making some freezer meals that would get us through in case we need to sequester, and I thought I’d share. Here are 24 nourishing recipes to make for the lockdown.
I'm always on the lookout for a good whole grain dish. This whole wheat couscous is a winner on several fronts. It's tart and tangy, savory and sweet. It's super simple, and it plays as well as a side dish as it does a salad.
A bright and zingy (and super easy) way with asparagus that pairs wonderfully with Asian dishes.
These cakes are crispy and flavorful and delightful as a light meal on their own, or as an innovative finger food. Serve them with our Curry Dipping Sauce.
Spiced Quinoa Quinoa is such a versatile grain—terrific on its own and beside just about
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
A super-quick and tasty hors d'oeuvre from simple pantry and freezer ingredients.
Carrots starring in a main dish? You bet! This vegan entree is inspired by Deborah Madison's terrific new book, “Vegetable Literacy.”
This Central California-style barbecue side is a perfect dish to showcase the beauty and flavor of heirloom beans.
In her new book, “Tender,” Seattle Chef Tamara Murphy shares a super-simple way to roast wild mushrooms.
I fell in love with these giant beans–often served as part of a mezhedes spread–in Athens. They're meaty, soaked through with flavor and thoroughly satisfying. To this day, my favorite way to enjoy them is still with toothpicks and a glass of ouzo.
This easy, flavorful recipe for chickpeas with blistered scallions makes a tasty main dish or side dish. Use leftovers for speedy meals later in the week!
This recipe transforms fresh spring veggies into a fragrant, satisfying curry. Serve with purple or red rice for a stunning bowl.
Tempeh stands in for beef in our hearty, healthy and weeknight-friendly vegan fajitas. Ole!
These little spears are crowd pleasers. The cheese mixture keeps for up to five days, so you can prep everything ahead of time and then pipe just before people come to the door.
This easy vegetarian ragu is also an incredibly versatile little number. Toss it with pasta, serve it over polenta, or spoon it onto crostini smeared with goat cheese.
Hot, salty, slippery and chewy … this bowl of vegetarian noodles is a full-on feast.
This steel cut oatmeal recipe is a great make-ahead option for a healthy breakfast or a savory side dish.
Letting the bok choy get nice and browned in some places–what the Chinese call “the breath of the wok”–adds a smoky savoriness to the dish.
When people hear “plant-based,” they often assume it means vegetarian. It certainly can — and does for many. But plant-based can also mean focusing meals around vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, with meat, fish or poultry playing a secondary role. Here's what that shift looks like and how to make it.
This no-crust quiche is a quickie you can bust out at the last minute on those nights when you don't have time for much more. It really focuses on the vegetables with just enough custard to hold it all together (very “nourishing!”). Leftovers are a treat reheated for breakfast or lunch another day.
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
Brussels sprouts get an Asian spin with sweet chile sauce for a scene-stealing side dish.
Pasta Bolognese is, by definition, a meaty dish—hence, the quotation marks in this recipe’s name. In this case, mushrooms are treated to a traditional technique, for a plant-forward version of “Bolognese” with plenty of umami heft, but also light and bright enough for spring.
Inspired by the Spanish dish of the same name, our migas combine day-old bread, leftover greens, eggs and sausage for a hearty one-pan dinner—or breakfast (but not to be confused with the Tex-Mex version using leftover tortillas or tortilla chips).
These sweet potato wedges have a spicy foil to their sweetness. They're reminiscent of sweet potato fries, but a whole lot healthier.
Chard + orange + almonds is one very happy ménage à trois on a plate.
Nothing showcases the culinary power of eggs quite like a soufflé. Serve this spinach souffle with a “Bon Appetit!” in your best Julia Child imitation and pair it with a green salad dressed in Mustard-Shallot Vinaigrette and dry white wine for a light supper.
This easy recipe is a game-changer when it comes to cauliflower. Served with a simple aioli sauce, these roasted cauliflower will win over veggie haters.
A while ago I was profiling a group of moms who met through a CSA and was intrigued by their stories of how the CSA experience had shaped the way their kids eat. One veggie the kids unanimously preferred (demanded) fresh from the far rather than from a grocery store bag was carrots. This recipe gilds the lily even further, by adding honey and ginger to the mix.
This simple side dish adds Asian flair to any meal. These sugar snaps are delicious hot out of the pan or at room temperature for lunch the next day. Mirin is a sweet wine made from glutinous rice that’s a staple of Japanese cooking.
Korean food is hot stuff these days, and kimchi is always on the table. Our basic homemade kimchi is easy to make and versatile to use.
Grilled Polenta with Blistered Snow Peas & Bok Choy This is the recipe I wrote
These pickled red onions come together in a flash to add bright flavor and crunch to all kinds of dishes.
If you have leftover rice, veggies and shrimp or meat, you've got the fixings for a quick and delicious healthy fried rice recipe.
Redolent with spices and bursting with flavor, this Indian-cuisine staple is a comforting dish at the end of a long day.
If you’ve never tried roasted broccoli, give this recipe a try. A touch of Spanish paprika and garlic slivers that turn out golden and crisp give incredible depth of flavor through just two ingredients.
This cabbage dish is essentially a vegetarian mu shu turned sauté. I love it simply served with brown jasmine rice, but you could also pair it with Chinese pancakes or thin flour tortillas.
These are simplified versions of one of my favorite pizzas. If you’ve got white beans—either homemade or canned in the pantry—you can have this meal on the table in minutes.
Fregola is an Italian rolled pasta similar to Israeli couscous, and it's wonderfully toothsome in this salad. If you can't find fregola (or wanted to go gluten free), millet would be a great substitute. Top with a few chunks of good quality tuna packed in olive oil and you've got a nice, hearty, nourishing meal.
By the luscious, creamy texture and complex flavor of this zucchini frittata, you’d never guess it was barely more than squash, onion and eggs. Choose the freshest eggs you can find for this since they play such a prominent role.
Topped with feta, braised kale take center stage in this easy tartines for a hearty, fast and healthy meal.
Want to make bread at home? It's easy with this this no-knead bread recipe that lets time and yeast do most of the work for you.
Coconut sugar lends subtle sweetness to our Mexican-spiced chocolate pudding made with amaranth.
This coleslaw is super simple, crazy versatile, and so good I could eat the whole bowl by itself. Serve it on our Spicy Fish Tacos, as a side with poultry or as a kick-ass sandwich condiment.
Use any combo of wild spring mushrooms you find for this simple saute—porcini, shiitake, oyster, morel, hedgehog, etc. Or add creminis (brown mushrooms) to the mix.
This sauteed spinach recipe wins over even those who normally snub the vegetable. Pre-washed spinach makes this dish come together in a flash.
Roasted Broccoli with Garlic, Chile and Lemon Zest Roasting broccoli is a very, very good
This basic, versatile recipe for white beans can be enjoyed on its own, added to pasta or dressed up with tuna.
These Greek-inspired fritters make great hors d’oeuvres or a light dinner served with tzatziki.
This mushroom stock has stunning rich flavor for stellar soups and fantastic risotto.
This luscious, easy, vibrant green slow-cooked asparagus has become my go-to spring side dish.
These simple, healthy snow peas have all the hallmarks of a stellar side dish—just a handful of ingredients, an easy technique and addictive flavor. It's the perfect example of how using a little bit of an “indulgence fat” — in this case butter — the right way can add multitude of flavor in a healthy way.
Mineral- and fiber-rich brown rice is the basis for an rice pilaf recipe that makes a simple side dish. Add peas or edamame for a dish of color.
This simple side dish is our answer to that Thanksgiving classic: green bean casserole. But since it's made with fresh green beans, it's sooooo much better.
6 ingredients and a hot oven highlight the texture and sweet flavor of beets.
Time and a Dutch oven make it easy to bake wonderful, rustic homemade bread — without kneading.
Our no-knead technique yields an easy whole-wheat pizza dough recipe that's perfect with any type of topping.
Quick-cooking bulgur comes to the rescue when you need an easy whole-grain side dish!
This recipe was inevitable. Last week, while I was reviewing the whole grain spaghettis for this post, I had a dozen fresh eggs from a friend’s hens sitting next to a few slices of really tasty bacon (crafted with care in Iowa) in the fridge . . . the ingredients for a major carbonara craving.
This simple, springy pesto recipe is a versatile friend in the kitchen. Use to flavor whole grains, dollop on fish or chicken, or dress a bowl of pasta.
Pearled barley yields a creamy, toothsome risotto. And here’s your language lesson for the day: The Italian word for barley is orzo (not to be confused with the rice-shaped pasta of the same name), and risotto made with barley is called orzotto. Yes, we probably should call this orzotto, but most people will think of this as risotto. In any case, it’s delicious by any name. This recipe also would be tasty with pearled farro (labeled farro perlato) if you find it at gourmet markets, in which case, this would be farrotto.
Hot, salty, slippery and chewy … this bowl of vegetarian noodles is a full-on feast.
These are simplified versions of one of my favorite pizzas. If you’ve got white beans—either homemade or canned in the pantry—you can have this meal on the table in minutes.
Fregola is an Italian rolled pasta similar to Israeli couscous, and it's wonderfully toothsome in this salad. If you can't find fregola (or wanted to go gluten free), millet would be a great substitute. Top with a few chunks of good quality tuna packed in olive oil and you've got a nice, hearty, nourishing meal.
This is the dish that has become tradition for Christopher and me upon returning from the road. For us, any season of the year really, this bowl says welcome home.
When fresh tomatoes have gone out of season, turn to BPA-free canned tomatoes to whip up this speedy, multipurpose sauce.
Using tortillas and leftover sauteed mushrooms, these tasty pizzas come together quickly. They make a lovely light dinner with a Simple Butter Lettuce Salad, and are a quick and easy appetizer that’s lovely with a rosé.
I’ve made this dish successfully with all kinds of greens, but I like tender baby spinach and bok choy derivatives the best. Keep in mind that you want a touch of water clinging to the greens, but not so much that they’ll swim when they’re wilting. Note: If choosing tough-stemmed greens like chard or beet greens, slice the stems into 1-inch lengths.
Pasta Bolognese is, by definition, a meaty dish—hence, the quotation marks in this recipe’s name. In this case, mushrooms are treated to a traditional technique, for a plant-forward version of “Bolognese” with plenty of umami heft, but also light and bright enough for spring.
Our no-knead technique yields an easy whole-wheat pizza dough recipe that's perfect with any type of topping.
This is the dish that has become tradition for Christopher and me upon returning from the road. For us, any season of the year really, this bowl says welcome home.
I love this dish. It's winter and spring and light and creamy all at the same time . . . the perfect pasta to feast on at the end of April.
This pasta is springtime in a bowl–use the freshest asparagus you can find. You'll be amazed by how much richness and flavor just one egg yolk can bring to a dish.
I'm a big fan of cooking cauliflower until it's almost creamy … especially in pastas like this one. It becomes part of the sauce, adding heft and health to just a handful of fettuccine.
This is based on a bar snack Alison spotted while, well, sitting at the counter at a local wine bar watching the bartender turn out quick pizza-like snacks with lavash (a type of Armenian flatbread), a variety of toppings and a toaster oven.
This pasta dish comes together in minutes with simple items from the pantry and fridge. It's a nourishing, super tasty answer to “what's for dinner?”
Right about now, I get to craving the aromatic bliss of basil. But it's tough to find in winter, and tends to be somewhat bland–and expensive–if you do. My seasonal secret? I use arugula, which is abundant right now both in my garden and on market shelves.
This fresh, bright, light turkey salad with Asian flair is quite a departure from the usual all-American Thanksgiving leftovers.
Serve this flavorful filling with lettuce leaves and let everyone stuff their own to give a flavor of the communal nature of Thai meals.
This soup is a whole lot of flavor—and comfort—in a very short time, when you've got cooked chicken on hand. Shiitake mushrooms are great in this, but use any variety you like.
Here’s a streamlined version of Amma’s Rice, a beautiful, golden-hued biryani recipe from Pat Tanumihardja’s heartfelt The Asian Grandmothers Cookbook (Sasquatch Books). Any type of chutney is a good condiment with this rice dish; I enjoy it with tamarind.
This easy and adaptable chicken stir-fry is a weeknight-friendly meal. No sugar snap peas? just use snow peas, green beans or broccoli.
These cutlets are a simplified version of chicken Milanese, using a flavorful schmear of Dijon mustard instead of an egg and dredging the chicken in one coating of bread crumbs.
Alison and I got to talking about chicken the other day and were reminiscing how, when she was my editor at Cooking Light, readers couldn't get enough of stuffed chicken breasts. And then we remembered why. They're moist and tasty, quite elegant-looking, and cook faster than you'd think. Because they're “beefed up” by the stuffing, you can easily serve four with only two breast halves.
This healthy oven-fried chicken recipe yields results as brown and crispy as any traditional fried chicken, but it's easy enough to for a weeknight dinner.
This roast chicken recipe is is a comfort-food classic and probably the easiest you'll find anywhere. It's also one of the best.
This sauce is more silk than velvet, which works beautifully with any type of mushroom, from cremini to morels.
Miami memories lead to this Cuban-inspired riff of arroz con pollo … only made with whole grain millet in lieu of rice
This spicy, aromatic pumpkin curry recipe with chicken thighs makes for a comforting, healthy dinner. Serve over rice and pair with Gewurztraminer.
This southeast Mexican spin on tortilla soup is warm and comforting with a brothy consistency and bright citrusy notes that hint at sunny days.
I find that finger food naturally slows down a meal and focuses attention. When you've got juice dripping down your wrist and have to reach over your neighbor for the lettuce platter, it's hard not to have the meal take on a different tenor.
Commercial fish sticks are loaded with fillers and preservatives. Try these easy homemade fish fingers with a zippy tartar sauce instead.
This tasty shrimp stir-fry is as versatile as it is simple to make. Serve it as an appetizer, over wok-tossed rice noodles or in an Asian-inspired noodle salad.
Lemon-Fennel Salmon Shallow poaching is an awesome way to cook salmon, keeping it nice and
Tilapia is an affordable, sustainable fish. Here, we use it in a healthy version of New Orleans-style po' boy sandwiches.
Like a (healthier), deconstructed cross between oysters Rockefeller and clams casino. Although, honestly … better than both!
Leaving the shells on during grilling adds to the flavor of the dish. Be sure to source domestic shrimp so you know you're making a smart, sustainable choice.
Need to get a tasty, healthy dinner on the table? This curried mussels recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. As bonus, it features a sustainable seafood.
These are the fish tacos of my dreams: a combo of spicy seared fish and zippy slaw tucked into a corn tortilla and drizzled with creamy sauce.
Barramundi's meaty yet flaky texture makes it a good pair for dishes with an Asian flair. Like this one, with caramelized shallots and chile and a savory splash of fish sauce.
A stunning, and spicy, preparation of a firm, flaky, tasty fish.
Lia made this classic blacked catfish back in her college days in New Orleans. Little did she know then, it was a smart, sustainable choice, too!
Rich, flavorful grilled wild Alaskan salmon is an ideal ingredient for winning weeknight dinners.
A little leftover fish provides inspiration for an elegant, easy salmon sandwich recipe with lemon-spiced mayonnaise.
I developed this recipe when I got home from Cordova, Alaska last year bearing a few pounds of Copper River wild salmon, thanks to Bill Webber. A simple salsa made with summer's stone fruits is the perfect accompaniment.
An Italian-style tuna salad, sans mayo, is delicious way to use premium, sustainably caught canned tuna.
Sablefish, aka black cod or butterfish, is a fatty, mild-flavored fish with a luscious texture. Slathered with this ginger-soy glaze, it practically melts in your mouth.
Strawberry Arugula Salad Strawberry, arugula and avocado are a beautiful trio, creating sweet, spicy and
This mushroom stock has stunning rich flavor for stellar soups and fantastic risotto.
This fresh, bright, light turkey salad with Asian flair is quite a departure from the usual all-American Thanksgiving leftovers.
Fregola is an Italian rolled pasta similar to Israeli couscous, and it's wonderfully toothsome in this salad. If you can't find fregola (or wanted to go gluten free), millet would be a great substitute. Top with a few chunks of good quality tuna packed in olive oil and you've got a nice, hearty, nourishing meal.
Lentils and chickpeas are a match made in heaven, and this bright, lemony salad recipe easily expands to feed a crowd (trust me on that one!).
This entrée salad — with healthy quinoa and crispy snow peas and cabbage — makes a generous amount, and that’s okay, because leftovers hold up nicely for lunch another day.
Roasted asparagus shines when topped with a luscious poached egg and crisp prosciutto in this easy spring dinner or brunch.
I can't tell you how much I love this simple side salad. Butter lettuce has a delicate, sweet crunch to it, and its crevices catch the nubbins in the vinaigrette perfectly. It's crazy simple, and it's the perfect accompaniment to Frittatas, Soft Scrambled Eggs, Simplest Roast Chicken, Crispy Curry Quinoa Cakes … you name it.
This udon soup is simple, satisfying and comes together in about 20 minutes from broth to bowl, using any kind of greens, meat, poultry or fish you have.
Make this awesome veggie broth any time you've got a bunch of scraps in the fridge or cluttering up the counter. Amazingly easy, and so full of flavor.
Lia's egg salad recipe combines the ease of egg salad with the spicy kick of traditional deviled eggs.
Serve this flavorful filling with lettuce leaves and let everyone stuff their own to give a flavor of the communal nature of Thai meals.
This soup is a whole lot of flavor—and comfort—in a very short time, when you've got cooked chicken on hand. Shiitake mushrooms are great in this, but use any variety you like.
This southeast Mexican spin on tortilla soup is warm and comforting with a brothy consistency and bright citrusy notes that hint at sunny days.
Black bean soup from scratch in less than an hour. You've got to love a pressure cooker.
This unique Kale Caesar Salad–with spicy-crispy parmesan-almond “croutons”–is hearty enough to be a main course.
This coleslaw is super simple, crazy versatile, and so good I could eat the whole bowl by itself. Serve it on our Spicy Fish Tacos, as a side with poultry or as a kick-ass sandwich condiment.
Lemony Kale Salad This may sound like a strange one, but “massaged” kale becomes tender
This simple Provencal-style soupe au pistou is the Provencal Is a delicious way to showcase delicate spring leeks and sugar snap peas.
You’ll want a tender “fryer” or “young” rabbit for this recipe; fryers typically weigh less than 3 pounds. Ask the butcher to cut the rabbit into six serving pieces, which makes this a simple dish you can prepare on a weeknight.
Make this great gathering dish with whatever you have in your fridge.
Talk about fast food. This quickie meal uses high quality store-bought ingredients, pantry spices, and fresh veggies to deliver an improved version of a fast-food staple. Nothing fancy here, but when your schedule is frenzied and you’re considering the drive-thru, consider this 20-minute DIY meal instead. Decrease the chipotle slightly if you’re serving less adventurous palates.
These easy grilled beef tacos come together in less than 30 minutes. You'll even have leftovers for sandwiches and salads later in the week.
This dish is a fresh twist on the classic veal piccata. Although it has an air of elegance, this whole dish comes together in less than 15 minutes.
Nothing is more impressive on a holiday table than a roast prime rib of beef. Ask your butcher to prepare a 12-pound prime rib roast, with the fat cap left on and bones left in.
This dish is supremely delish with roasted root veggies. Choosing heritage pork will mean even more flavor. I love leftovers in a sandwich slathered with mustard and dotted with bread and butter pickles.
These carnitas are based on a recipe by Michele Anna Jordan that I've been using for years. Because the pork is braised in its own juice, these carnitas are much lighter than the traditional version.
These lamb chops remind me of my time on Corfu. After we'd close the restaurant late at night, we'd grill up a batch and set them in the middle of the table for everyone to nibble on in between stories or songs.
Skirt steak is a great choice for a weeknight meat craving: it cooks up superfast and takes great to rubs. A few slices served with a plateful of veggies and whole grains brings something traditionally thought of as a nutritional no-no (steak) into a more nourishing category.
These sweet potato wedges have a spicy foil to their sweetness. They're reminiscent of sweet potato fries, but a whole lot healthier.
Strawberry Arugula Salad Strawberry, arugula and avocado are a beautiful trio, creating sweet, spicy and
These easy grilled beef tacos come together in less than 30 minutes. You'll even have leftovers for sandwiches and salads later in the week.
Lemony Kale Salad This may sound like a strange one, but “massaged” kale becomes tender
I developed this recipe when I got home from Cordova, Alaska last year bearing a few pounds of Copper River wild salmon, thanks to Bill Webber. A simple salsa made with summer's stone fruits is the perfect accompaniment.
Pistachio Gremolata Gremolata is an Italian garnish typically used to add a touch of bright
This unique Kale Caesar Salad–with spicy-crispy parmesan-almond “croutons”–is hearty enough to be a main course.
These little spears are crowd pleasers. The cheese mixture keeps for up to five days, so you can prep everything ahead of time and then pipe just before people come to the door.
This is one of my hands-down favorite easy dinners, and can also be transformed into an easy appetizer by topping crostini (and if you're feeling decadent, drizzling with truffle oil). Watch my video down below to see how easy these are to make.
This luscious, easy, vibrant green slow-cooked asparagus has become my go-to spring side dish.
Leaving the shells on during grilling adds to the flavor of the dish. Be sure to source domestic shrimp so you know you're making a smart, sustainable choice.
This homemade Caesar dressing recipe, inspired by one from Ana Sortun of Oleana, is a staple in my house. I hope it will be in yours too.
Roasted Broccoli with Garlic, Chile and Lemon Zest Roasting broccoli is a very, very good
This simple side dish adds Asian flair to any meal. These sugar snaps are delicious hot out of the pan or at room temperature for lunch the next day. Mirin is a sweet wine made from glutinous rice that’s a staple of Japanese cooking.
Grilled Polenta with Blistered Snow Peas & Bok Choy This is the recipe I wrote
This soup is a whole lot of flavor—and comfort—in a very short time, when you've got cooked chicken on hand. Shiitake mushrooms are great in this, but use any variety you like.
Try amaranth instead of corn polenta in our update on a simple Italian side dish.
Redolent with spices and bursting with flavor, this Indian-cuisine staple is a comforting dish at the end of a long day.
When fresh tomatoes have gone out of season, turn to BPA-free canned tomatoes to whip up this speedy, multipurpose sauce.
Letting the bok choy get nice and browned in some places–what the Chinese call “the breath of the wok”–adds a smoky savoriness to the dish.
Spiced Quinoa Quinoa is such a versatile grain—terrific on its own and beside just about
I waffled about whether to name this ‘hummus' or ‘chickpea dip', but ultimately thought it veered far enough from tradition to go with the latter. It is, in any case, delicious. If you've ever had any doubt as to the strength of pounded garlic, this little dish will set you straight.
Chard + orange + almonds is one very happy ménage à trois on a plate.
Tempeh stands in for beef in our hearty, healthy and weeknight-friendly vegan fajitas. Ole!
By the luscious, creamy texture and complex flavor of this zucchini frittata, you’d never guess it was barely more than squash, onion and eggs. Choose the freshest eggs you can find for this since they play such a prominent role.
This simple, springy pesto recipe is a versatile friend in the kitchen. Use to flavor whole grains, dollop on fish or chicken, or dress a bowl of pasta.
This easy, flavorful recipe for chickpeas with blistered scallions makes a tasty main dish or side dish. Use leftovers for speedy meals later in the week!
This southeast Mexican spin on tortilla soup is warm and comforting with a brothy consistency and bright citrusy notes that hint at sunny days.
If you’ve never tried roasted broccoli, give this recipe a try. A touch of Spanish paprika and garlic slivers that turn out golden and crisp give incredible depth of flavor through just two ingredients.
6 ingredients and a hot oven highlight the texture and sweet flavor of beets.
These have become our favorite beans to accompany Latin American meals. Tender, creamy and full of flavor.
Don't tell anyone these fudgy little brownies–simple as all get out and baked in a mini muffin tin–are made out of black beans. Wow them with the taste first, then surprise them with the secret ingredient.
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
This sauteed spinach recipe wins over even those who normally snub the vegetable. Pre-washed spinach makes this dish come together in a flash.
This simple side dish is our answer to that Thanksgiving classic: green bean casserole. But since it's made with fresh green beans, it's sooooo much better.
This Central California-style barbecue side is a perfect dish to showcase the beauty and flavor of heirloom beans.
File this recipe under delicious aromatherapy, because your house will smell amazing as the onions roast. These flavorful onions are amazing atop pizza, chopped and added to cooked whole grains, and in our Rustic Roasted Onion & Spinach Tart. Be sure to use more mature spring onions with big bulbs at the end.
Korean food is hot stuff these days, and kimchi is always on the table. Our basic homemade kimchi is easy to make and versatile to use.
This basic, versatile recipe for white beans can be enjoyed on its own, added to pasta or dressed up with tuna.
Lemon-Fennel Salmon Shallow poaching is an awesome way to cook salmon, keeping it nice and
This recipe transforms fresh spring veggies into a fragrant, satisfying curry. Serve with purple or red rice for a stunning bowl.
These radishes add a bright note to sandwiches, salads, tacos and even atop pizza or flatbread. You can use any variety of radishes—from common red radishes to glorious watermelon radishes.
These simple, healthy snow peas have all the hallmarks of a stellar side dish—just a handful of ingredients, an easy technique and addictive flavor. It's the perfect example of how using a little bit of an “indulgence fat” — in this case butter — the right way can add multitude of flavor in a healthy way.
Skirt steak is a great choice for a weeknight meat craving: it cooks up superfast and takes great to rubs. A few slices served with a plateful of veggies and whole grains brings something traditionally thought of as a nutritional no-no (steak) into a more nourishing category.
This easy recipe is a game-changer when it comes to cauliflower. Served with a simple aioli sauce, these roasted cauliflower will win over veggie haters.
Lentils and chickpeas are a match made in heaven, and this bright, lemony salad recipe easily expands to feed a crowd (trust me on that one!).
Creamy Lemon Dressing I made this dressing one day when I was craving a lemony
In her new book, “Tender,” Seattle Chef Tamara Murphy shares a super-simple way to roast wild mushrooms.
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
This simple Provencal-style soupe au pistou is the Provencal Is a delicious way to showcase delicate spring leeks and sugar snap peas.
This easy spring trout dish is made en papillote, a classic French technique that's a great technique for delicate fish and springtime ingredients.
Need to get a tasty, healthy dinner on the table? This curried mussels recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. As bonus, it features a sustainable seafood.
Coconut sugar lends subtle sweetness to our Mexican-spiced chocolate pudding made with amaranth.
These lamb chops remind me of my time on Corfu. After we'd close the restaurant late at night, we'd grill up a batch and set them in the middle of the table for everyone to nibble on in between stories or songs.
This no-crust quiche is a quickie you can bust out at the last minute on those nights when you don't have time for much more. It really focuses on the vegetables with just enough custard to hold it all together (very “nourishing!”). Leftovers are a treat reheated for breakfast or lunch another day.
I can't tell you how much I love this simple side salad. Butter lettuce has a delicate, sweet crunch to it, and its crevices catch the nubbins in the vinaigrette perfectly. It's crazy simple, and it's the perfect accompaniment to Frittatas, Soft Scrambled Eggs, Simplest Roast Chicken, Crispy Curry Quinoa Cakes … you name it.
This easy vegetarian ragu is also an incredibly versatile little number. Toss it with pasta, serve it over polenta, or spoon it onto crostini smeared with goat cheese.
Carrots starring in a main dish? You bet! This vegan entree is inspired by Deborah Madison's terrific new book, “Vegetable Literacy.”
Use any combo of wild spring mushrooms you find for this simple saute—porcini, shiitake, oyster, morel, hedgehog, etc. Or add creminis (brown mushrooms) to the mix.
This fresh, bright, light turkey salad with Asian flair is quite a departure from the usual all-American Thanksgiving leftovers.
A traditional Indian condiment gets a spring makeover with fennel and mint.
Rich, flavorful grilled wild Alaskan salmon is an ideal ingredient for winning weeknight dinners.
In her new book, “Tender,” Seattle Chef Tamara Murphy shares a super-simple way to roast wild mushrooms.
This simple Provencal-style soupe au pistou is the Provencal Is a delicious way to showcase delicate spring leeks and sugar snap peas.
I'm a big fan of cooking cauliflower until it's almost creamy … especially in pastas like this one. It becomes part of the sauce, adding heft and health to just a handful of fettuccine.
Letting the bok choy get nice and browned in some places–what the Chinese call “the breath of the wok”–adds a smoky savoriness to the dish.
I waffled about whether to name this ‘hummus' or ‘chickpea dip', but ultimately thought it veered far enough from tradition to go with the latter. It is, in any case, delicious. If you've ever had any doubt as to the strength of pounded garlic, this little dish will set you straight.
These are simplified versions of one of my favorite pizzas. If you’ve got white beans—either homemade or canned in the pantry—you can have this meal on the table in minutes.
These Greek-inspired fritters make great hors d’oeuvres or a light dinner served with tzatziki.
Use any combo of wild spring mushrooms you find for this simple saute—porcini, shiitake, oyster, morel, hedgehog, etc. Or add creminis (brown mushrooms) to the mix.
Lentils and chickpeas are a match made in heaven, and this bright, lemony salad recipe easily expands to feed a crowd (trust me on that one!).
These sweet potato wedges have a spicy foil to their sweetness. They're reminiscent of sweet potato fries, but a whole lot healthier.
Tempeh stands in for beef in our hearty, healthy and weeknight-friendly vegan fajitas. Ole!
Carrots starring in a main dish? You bet! This vegan entree is inspired by Deborah Madison's terrific new book, “Vegetable Literacy.”
This no-crust quiche is a quickie you can bust out at the last minute on those nights when you don't have time for much more. It really focuses on the vegetables with just enough custard to hold it all together (very “nourishing!”). Leftovers are a treat reheated for breakfast or lunch another day.
This luscious, easy, vibrant green slow-cooked asparagus has become my go-to spring side dish.
This coleslaw is super simple, crazy versatile, and so good I could eat the whole bowl by itself. Serve it on our Spicy Fish Tacos, as a side with poultry or as a kick-ass sandwich condiment.
If you’ve never tried roasted broccoli, give this recipe a try. A touch of Spanish paprika and garlic slivers that turn out golden and crisp give incredible depth of flavor through just two ingredients.
Redolent with spices and bursting with flavor, this Indian-cuisine staple is a comforting dish at the end of a long day.
This easy recipe is a game-changer when it comes to cauliflower. Served with a simple aioli sauce, these roasted cauliflower will win over veggie haters.
This simple side dish adds Asian flair to any meal. These sugar snaps are delicious hot out of the pan or at room temperature for lunch the next day. Mirin is a sweet wine made from glutinous rice that’s a staple of Japanese cooking.
Fregola is an Italian rolled pasta similar to Israeli couscous, and it's wonderfully toothsome in this salad. If you can't find fregola (or wanted to go gluten free), millet would be a great substitute. Top with a few chunks of good quality tuna packed in olive oil and you've got a nice, hearty, nourishing meal.
This is one of my hands-down favorite easy dinners, and can also be transformed into an easy appetizer by topping crostini (and if you're feeling decadent, drizzling with truffle oil). Watch my video down below to see how easy these are to make.
Grilled Polenta with Blistered Snow Peas & Bok Choy This is the recipe I wrote…
This simple, springy pesto recipe is a versatile friend in the kitchen. Use to flavor whole grains, dollop on fish or chicken, or dress a bowl of pasta.
Nothing showcases the culinary power of eggs quite like a soufflé. Serve this spinach souffle with a “Bon Appetit!” in your best Julia Child imitation and pair it with a green salad dressed in Mustard-Shallot Vinaigrette and dry white wine for a light supper.
By the luscious, creamy texture and complex flavor of this zucchini frittata, you’d never guess it was barely more than squash, onion and eggs. Choose the freshest eggs you can find for this since they play such a prominent role.
This simple side dish is our answer to that Thanksgiving classic: green bean casserole. But since it's made with fresh green beans, it's sooooo much better.
Roasted Broccoli with Garlic, Chile and Lemon Zest Roasting broccoli is a very, very good…
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
This sauteed spinach recipe wins over even those who normally snub the vegetable. Pre-washed spinach makes this dish come together in a flash.
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
This is based on a bar snack Alison spotted while, well, sitting at the counter at a local wine bar watching the bartender turn out quick pizza-like snacks with lavash (a type of Armenian flatbread), a variety of toppings and a toaster oven.
This cabbage dish is essentially a vegetarian mu shu turned sauté. I love it simply served with brown jasmine rice, but you could also pair it with Chinese pancakes or thin flour tortillas.
This easy, flavorful recipe for chickpeas with blistered scallions makes a tasty main dish or side dish. Use leftovers for speedy meals later in the week!
Pasta Bolognese is, by definition, a meaty dish—hence, the quotation marks in this recipe’s name. In this case, mushrooms are treated to a traditional technique, for a plant-forward version of “Bolognese” with plenty of umami heft, but also light and bright enough for spring.
This nibble comes together super-quick once the favas are shelled, so you can whip it up and be back outside before the conversation even hits a lull.
This easy vegetarian ragu is also an incredibly versatile little number. Toss it with pasta, serve it over polenta, or spoon it onto crostini smeared with goat cheese.
These radishes add a bright note to sandwiches, salads, tacos and even atop pizza or flatbread. You can use any variety of radishes—from common red radishes to glorious watermelon radishes.
Try amaranth instead of corn polenta in our update on a simple Italian side dish.
A super-quick and tasty hors d'oeuvre from simple pantry and freezer ingredients.
These simple, healthy snow peas have all the hallmarks of a stellar side dish—just a handful of ingredients, an easy technique and addictive flavor. It's the perfect example of how using a little bit of an “indulgence fat” — in this case butter — the right way can add multitude of flavor in a healthy way.
This basic, versatile recipe for white beans can be enjoyed on its own, added to pasta or dressed up with tuna.
A traditional Indian condiment gets a spring makeover with fennel and mint.
Spiced Quinoa Quinoa is such a versatile grain—terrific on its own and beside just about…
By the luscious, creamy texture and complex flavor of this zucchini frittata, you’d never guess it was barely more than squash, onion and eggs. Choose the freshest eggs you can find for this since they play such a prominent role.
This fresh, bright, light turkey salad with Asian flair is quite a departure from the usual all-American Thanksgiving leftovers.
Mark Bitterman is passionate about salt. Here, he tells us how to use artisanal salts to mindfully enhance a meal.
Carrots starring in a main dish? You bet! This vegan entree is inspired by Deborah Madison's terrific new book, “Vegetable Literacy.”
This luscious, easy, vibrant green slow-cooked asparagus has become my go-to spring side dish.
In her new book, “Tender,” Seattle Chef Tamara Murphy shares a super-simple way to roast wild mushrooms.
This unique Kale Caesar Salad–with spicy-crispy parmesan-almond “croutons”–is hearty enough to be a main course.
This cabbage dish is essentially a vegetarian mu shu turned sauté. I love it simply served with brown jasmine rice, but you could also pair it with Chinese pancakes or thin flour tortillas.
Redolent with spices and bursting with flavor, this Indian-cuisine staple is a comforting dish at the end of a long day.
Lemon-Fennel Salmon Shallow poaching is an awesome way to cook salmon, keeping it nice and…
Roasted Broccoli with Garlic, Chile and Lemon Zest Roasting broccoli is a very, very good…
This basic, versatile recipe for white beans can be enjoyed on its own, added to pasta or dressed up with tuna.
If you’ve never tried roasted broccoli, give this recipe a try. A touch of Spanish paprika and garlic slivers that turn out golden and crisp give incredible depth of flavor through just two ingredients.
When fresh tomatoes have gone out of season, turn to BPA-free canned tomatoes to whip up this speedy, multipurpose sauce.
Quick-cooking bulgur comes to the rescue when you need an easy whole-grain side dish!
These Greek-inspired fritters make great hors d’oeuvres or a light dinner served with tzatziki.
Leaving the shells on during grilling adds to the flavor of the dish. Be sure to source domestic shrimp so you know you're making a smart, sustainable choice.
This homemade Caesar dressing recipe, inspired by one from Ana Sortun of Oleana, is a staple in my house. I hope it will be in yours too.
These sweet potato wedges have a spicy foil to their sweetness. They're reminiscent of sweet potato fries, but a whole lot healthier.
Need to get a tasty, healthy dinner on the table? This curried mussels recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. As bonus, it features a sustainable seafood.
These cutlets are a simplified version of chicken Milanese, using a flavorful schmear of Dijon mustard instead of an egg and dredging the chicken in one coating of bread crumbs.
Creamy Lemon Dressing I made this dressing one day when I was craving a lemony…
This simple side dish is our answer to that Thanksgiving classic: green bean casserole. But since it's made with fresh green beans, it's sooooo much better.
A bright and zingy (and super easy) way with asparagus that pairs wonderfully with Asian dishes.
Our easy aioli recipe combines a simple shortcut and authentic garlicky, lemony flavor while trimming calories and fat.
This recipe transforms fresh spring veggies into a fragrant, satisfying curry. Serve with purple or red rice for a stunning bowl.
Skirt steak is a great choice for a weeknight meat craving: it cooks up superfast and takes great to rubs. A few slices served with a plateful of veggies and whole grains brings something traditionally thought of as a nutritional no-no (steak) into a more nourishing category.
I developed this recipe when I got home from Cordova, Alaska last year bearing a few pounds of Copper River wild salmon, thanks to Bill Webber. A simple salsa made with summer's stone fruits is the perfect accompaniment.
This easy spring trout dish is made en papillote, a classic French technique that's a great technique for delicate fish and springtime ingredients.
Spiced Quinoa Quinoa is such a versatile grain—terrific on its own and beside just about…
If you have leftover rice, veggies and shrimp or meat, you've got the fixings for a quick and delicious healthy fried rice recipe.
This nibble comes together super-quick once the favas are shelled, so you can whip it up and be back outside before the conversation even hits a lull.
These radishes add a bright note to sandwiches, salads, tacos and even atop pizza or flatbread. You can use any variety of radishes—from common red radishes to glorious watermelon radishes.
This simple side dish adds Asian flair to any meal. These sugar snaps are delicious hot out of the pan or at room temperature for lunch the next day. Mirin is a sweet wine made from glutinous rice that’s a staple of Japanese cooking.
This easy recipe is a game-changer when it comes to cauliflower. Served with a simple aioli sauce, these roasted cauliflower will win over veggie haters.
Lemony Kale Salad This may sound like a strange one, but “massaged” kale becomes tender…
Fregola is an Italian rolled pasta similar to Israeli couscous, and it's wonderfully toothsome in this salad. If you can't find fregola (or wanted to go gluten free), millet would be a great substitute. Top with a few chunks of good quality tuna packed in olive oil and you've got a nice, hearty, nourishing meal.
Hot, salty, slippery and chewy … this bowl of vegetarian noodles is a full-on feast.
Chard + orange + almonds is one very happy ménage à trois on a plate.
Tempeh stands in for beef in our hearty, healthy and weeknight-friendly vegan fajitas. Ole!
This sauteed spinach recipe wins over even those who normally snub the vegetable. Pre-washed spinach makes this dish come together in a flash.
Pistachio Gremolata Gremolata is an Italian garnish typically used to add a touch of bright…
Letting the bok choy get nice and browned in some places–what the Chinese call “the breath of the wok”–adds a smoky savoriness to the dish.
Korean food is hot stuff these days, and kimchi is always on the table. Our basic homemade kimchi is easy to make and versatile to use.
I can't tell you how much I love this simple side salad. Butter lettuce has a delicate, sweet crunch to it, and its crevices catch the nubbins in the vinaigrette perfectly. It's crazy simple, and it's the perfect accompaniment to Frittatas, Soft Scrambled Eggs, Simplest Roast Chicken, Crispy Curry Quinoa Cakes … you name it.
Want to make bread at home? It's easy with this this no-knead bread recipe that lets time and yeast do most of the work for you.
These have become our favorite beans to accompany Latin American meals. Tender, creamy and full of flavor.
This easy, flavorful recipe for chickpeas with blistered scallions makes a tasty main dish or side dish. Use leftovers for speedy meals later in the week!
Strawberry Arugula Salad Strawberry, arugula and avocado are a beautiful trio, creating sweet, spicy and…
Rich, flavorful grilled wild Alaskan salmon is an ideal ingredient for winning weeknight dinners.
I'm always on the lookout for a good whole grain dish. This whole wheat couscous is a winner on several fronts. It's tart and tangy, savory and sweet. It's super simple, and it plays as well as a side dish as it does a salad.
File this recipe under delicious aromatherapy, because your house will smell amazing as the onions roast. These flavorful onions are amazing atop pizza, chopped and added to cooked whole grains, and in our Rustic Roasted Onion & Spinach Tart. Be sure to use more mature spring onions with big bulbs at the end.
These lamb chops remind me of my time on Corfu. After we'd close the restaurant late at night, we'd grill up a batch and set them in the middle of the table for everyone to nibble on in between stories or songs.
Lentils and chickpeas are a match made in heaven, and this bright, lemony salad recipe easily expands to feed a crowd (trust me on that one!).
These easy grilled beef tacos come together in less than 30 minutes. You'll even have leftovers for sandwiches and salads later in the week.
This soup is a whole lot of flavor—and comfort—in a very short time, when you've got cooked chicken on hand. Shiitake mushrooms are great in this, but use any variety you like.
I waffled about whether to name this ‘hummus' or ‘chickpea dip', but ultimately thought it veered far enough from tradition to go with the latter. It is, in any case, delicious. If you've ever had any doubt as to the strength of pounded garlic, this little dish will set you straight.
This southeast Mexican spin on tortilla soup is warm and comforting with a brothy consistency and bright citrusy notes that hint at sunny days.
6 ingredients and a hot oven highlight the texture and sweet flavor of beets.
Time and a Dutch oven make it easy to bake wonderful, rustic homemade bread — without kneading.
Don't tell anyone these fudgy little brownies–simple as all get out and baked in a mini muffin tin–are made out of black beans. Wow them with the taste first, then surprise them with the secret ingredient.
This spicy, aromatic pumpkin curry recipe with chicken thighs makes for a comforting, healthy dinner. Serve over rice and pair with Gewurztraminer.
Coconut sugar lends subtle sweetness to our Mexican-spiced chocolate pudding made with amaranth.
Grilled Polenta with Blistered Snow Peas & Bok Choy This is the recipe I wrote…
This Central California-style barbecue side is a perfect dish to showcase the beauty and flavor of heirloom beans.
6 ingredients and a hot oven highlight the texture and sweet flavor of beets.
I can't tell you how much I love this simple side salad. Butter lettuce has a delicate, sweet crunch to it, and its crevices catch the nubbins in the vinaigrette perfectly. It's crazy simple, and it's the perfect accompaniment to Frittatas, Soft Scrambled Eggs, Simplest Roast Chicken, Crispy Curry Quinoa Cakes … you name it.
Quick-cooking bulgur comes to the rescue when you need an easy whole-grain side dish!
Want to make bread at home? It's easy with this this no-knead bread recipe that lets time and yeast do most of the work for you.
This cabbage dish is essentially a vegetarian mu shu turned sauté. I love it simply served with brown jasmine rice, but you could also pair it with Chinese pancakes or thin flour tortillas.
Tempeh stands in for beef in our hearty, healthy and weeknight-friendly vegan fajitas. Ole!
Fregola is an Italian rolled pasta similar to Israeli couscous, and it's wonderfully toothsome in this salad. If you can't find fregola (or wanted to go gluten free), millet would be a great substitute. Top with a few chunks of good quality tuna packed in olive oil and you've got a nice, hearty, nourishing meal.
Spiced Quinoa Quinoa is such a versatile grain—terrific on its own and beside just about
Carrots starring in a main dish? You bet! This vegan entree is inspired by Deborah Madison's terrific new book, “Vegetable Literacy.”
This easy, flavorful recipe for chickpeas with blistered scallions makes a tasty main dish or side dish. Use leftovers for speedy meals later in the week!
Chard + orange + almonds is one very happy ménage à trois on a plate.
These radishes add a bright note to sandwiches, salads, tacos and even atop pizza or flatbread. You can use any variety of radishes—from common red radishes to glorious watermelon radishes.
This simple side dish is our answer to that Thanksgiving classic: green bean casserole. But since it's made with fresh green beans, it's sooooo much better.
Korean food is hot stuff these days, and kimchi is always on the table. Our basic homemade kimchi is easy to make and versatile to use.
A bright and zingy (and super easy) way with asparagus that pairs wonderfully with Asian dishes.
These sweet potato wedges have a spicy foil to their sweetness. They're reminiscent of sweet potato fries, but a whole lot healthier.
This basic, versatile recipe for white beans can be enjoyed on its own, added to pasta or dressed up with tuna.
I'm always on the lookout for a good whole grain dish. This whole wheat couscous is a winner on several fronts. It's tart and tangy, savory and sweet. It's super simple, and it plays as well as a side dish as it does a salad.
I waffled about whether to name this ‘hummus' or ‘chickpea dip', but ultimately thought it veered far enough from tradition to go with the latter. It is, in any case, delicious. If you've ever had any doubt as to the strength of pounded garlic, this little dish will set you straight.
This nibble comes together super-quick once the favas are shelled, so you can whip it up and be back outside before the conversation even hits a lull.
Pasta Bolognese is, by definition, a meaty dish—hence, the quotation marks in this recipe’s name. In this case, mushrooms are treated to a traditional technique, for a plant-forward version of “Bolognese” with plenty of umami heft, but also light and bright enough for spring.
Roasted Broccoli with Garlic, Chile and Lemon Zest Roasting broccoli is a very, very good
This luscious, easy, vibrant green slow-cooked asparagus has become my go-to spring side dish.
Pistachio Gremolata Gremolata is an Italian garnish typically used to add a touch of bright
Redolent with spices and bursting with flavor, this Indian-cuisine staple is a comforting dish at the end of a long day.
In her new book, “Tender,” Seattle Chef Tamara Murphy shares a super-simple way to roast wild mushrooms.
These have become our favorite beans to accompany Latin American meals. Tender, creamy and full of flavor.
Time and a Dutch oven make it easy to bake wonderful, rustic homemade bread — without kneading.
This sauteed spinach recipe wins over even those who normally snub the vegetable. Pre-washed spinach makes this dish come together in a flash.
If you’ve never tried roasted broccoli, give this recipe a try. A touch of Spanish paprika and garlic slivers that turn out golden and crisp give incredible depth of flavor through just two ingredients.
Grilled Polenta with Blistered Snow Peas & Bok Choy This is the recipe I wrote
Strawberry Arugula Salad Strawberry, arugula and avocado are a beautiful trio, creating sweet, spicy and
Lentils and chickpeas are a match made in heaven, and this bright, lemony salad recipe easily expands to feed a crowd (trust me on that one!).
Letting the bok choy get nice and browned in some places–what the Chinese call “the breath of the wok”–adds a smoky savoriness to the dish.
This is one of my hands-down favorite easy dinners, and can also be transformed into an easy appetizer by topping crostini (and if you're feeling decadent, drizzling with truffle oil). Watch my video down below to see how easy these are to make.
Nothing showcases the culinary power of eggs quite like a soufflé. Serve this spinach souffle with a “Bon Appetit!” in your best Julia Child imitation and pair it with a green salad dressed in Mustard-Shallot Vinaigrette and dry white wine for a light supper.
Pick a few extra plums for this ultra-simple dessert. It's got both grown-up aesthetic appeal and a healthful hit of whole grain.
Want to make bread at home? It's easy with this this no-knead bread recipe that lets time and yeast do most of the work for you.
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
Quiches always leave me feeling greasy and bloated. This one, my friends, is different. The crust is crunchy-chewy (healthy and gluten-free) quinoa, and the midsection is filled with garlicky chunks of broccoli and the sharp tang of Cheddar. And, as my 7-year-old daughter proved, this is a quiche kids love, too.
Roasted asparagus shines when topped with a luscious poached egg and crisp prosciutto in this easy spring dinner or brunch.
Lia's egg salad recipe combines the ease of egg salad with the spicy kick of traditional deviled eggs.
Inspired by the Spanish dish of the same name, our migas combine day-old bread, leftover greens, eggs and sausage for a hearty one-pan dinner—or breakfast (but not to be confused with the Tex-Mex version using leftover tortillas or tortilla chips).
This steel cut oatmeal recipe is a great make-ahead option for a healthy breakfast or a savory side dish.
This meal is our family's traditional Christmas Day breakfast. Christopher mans the comal after the Santa festivities, while we all fill our coffee mugs and wait for our plates.
This strata is like a savory bread pudding; custardy on the inside and crisp on the outside. It’s a nod to the version my Aunt Judy makes . . . serious incentive to wake up.
Sometimes, to be true to yourself, you have to mix things up a bit. Which is just what we did to this party staple to make it more nourishing (and, dare I say, tastier) all around.
This easy recipe is a game-changer when it comes to cauliflower. Served with a simple aioli sauce, these roasted cauliflower will win over veggie haters.
This easy, flavorful recipe for chickpeas with blistered scallions makes a tasty main dish or side dish. Use leftovers for speedy meals later in the week!
I waffled about whether to name this ‘hummus' or ‘chickpea dip', but ultimately thought it veered far enough from tradition to go with the latter. It is, in any case, delicious. If you've ever had any doubt as to the strength of pounded garlic, this little dish will set you straight.
An Italian-style tuna salad, sans mayo, is delicious way to use premium, sustainably caught canned tuna.
These radishes add a bright note to sandwiches, salads, tacos and even atop pizza or flatbread. You can use any variety of radishes—from common red radishes to glorious watermelon radishes.
Leaving the shells on during grilling adds to the flavor of the dish. Be sure to source domestic shrimp so you know you're making a smart, sustainable choice.
I fell in love with these giant beans–often served as part of a mezhedes spread–in Athens. They're meaty, soaked through with flavor and thoroughly satisfying. To this day, my favorite way to enjoy them is still with toothpicks and a glass of ouzo.
This is one of my hands-down favorite easy dinners, and can also be transformed into an easy appetizer by topping crostini (and if you're feeling decadent, drizzling with truffle oil). Watch my video down below to see how easy these are to make.
These are simplified versions of one of my favorite pizzas. If you’ve got white beans—either homemade or canned in the pantry—you can have this meal on the table in minutes.
I find that finger food naturally slows down a meal and focuses attention. When you've got juice dripping down your wrist and have to reach over your neighbor for the lettuce platter, it's hard not to have the meal take on a different tenor.
Gougeres are the classic nibble with Champagne. Here, we give them a Spanish spin with manchego cheese . . . try them with a glass of cava.
These Greek-inspired fritters make great hors d’oeuvres or a light dinner served with tzatziki.
This nibble comes together super-quick once the favas are shelled, so you can whip it up and be back outside before the conversation even hits a lull.
Peas definitely fall into the “can't get better than fresh-from-the-garden” category. Here, they end up in a gorgeous, Kelly-green coulis.
A super-quick and tasty hors d'oeuvre from simple pantry and freezer ingredients.
These little spears are crowd pleasers. The cheese mixture keeps for up to five days, so you can prep everything ahead of time and then pipe just before people come to the door.
These cakes are crispy and flavorful and delightful as a light meal on their own, or as an innovative finger food. Serve them with our Curry Dipping Sauce.
Mushrooms and Parmigiano-Reggiano are the kings of umami, amplifying one another’s flavor exponentially. Spinach and prosciutto add even more to the mix to make this hors d'oeuvre simply irresistible.
Serve this flavorful filling with lettuce leaves and let everyone stuff their own to give a flavor of the communal nature of Thai meals.
This tasty shrimp stir-fry is as versatile as it is simple to make. Serve it as an appetizer, over wok-tossed rice noodles or in an Asian-inspired noodle salad.
This dish is a great one to make when you're stalled between fruit seasons. Frozen organic fruit is preserved at its peak and is a great time-saver when you want a quick dessert.
Don't tell anyone these fudgy little brownies–simple as all get out and baked in a mini muffin tin–are made out of black beans. Wow them with the taste first, then surprise them with the secret ingredient.
These easy cookies are a tasty way to showcase Fair Trade-certified chocolate. Make the dough in advance and bake the cookies when you're ready.
Pistachios and coarse sea salt come together in this salty-sweet brittle that’s delicious on its own or crumbled over ice cream or our Chai-Spiced Amaranth Pudding.
Use our lightened, all-purpose pastry dough for sweet and savory pies!
Pick a few extra plums for this ultra-simple dessert. It's got both grown-up aesthetic appeal and a healthful hit of whole grain.
This dessert has a pudding-like consistency and decadently rich flavor . . . for about 30 calories more than a serving of low-fat Oreos.
This recipe is inspired by Mexican chocolate, which is sweet, cinnamony, and nutty. The chile powder adds a touch of smoky heat, but you can omit it if you like.
One of my mom's springtime standards is strawberry-rhubarb pie. Here's my take in a rustic crostata. In any form, rhubarb's tart taste is a perfect foil to sweet strawberries.
One of my favorite desserts to make during the holidays is Chocolate Truffles. They’re super easy and freeze beautifully which means you can make them well-ahead. This version features three flavors perfect for the Thanksgiving table—orange, bourbon and pecan—and packs a lot of pleasure in just a few bites. ~ by Jacqueline Church
These mini tarts taste like an oatmeal cookie topped with figs, honey and yogurt . . . only with a more grown-up look. They're the ultimate healthy dessert for summer.
A touch of whole wheat pastry flour boosts the nutrition in these classic oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
The proof is in this pudding: moderation can mean indulgence too.
Coconut sugar lends subtle sweetness to our Mexican-spiced chocolate pudding made with amaranth.
Traditional carrot cake gets a healthy makeover with our delicious carrot cake cupcakes, crowned with honey cream cheese frosting.
This easy lemon curd recipe can be made with just three basic kitchen tools.
Use organic milk, eggs and a vanilla bean to make a luscious pudding.
Peanut butter, chocolate, popcorn and a sprinkle of crunchy sea salt … simply irresistible!
Our chocolate biscotti recipe is infused of orange flavor from freshly grated zest. Made with cocoa, chopped chocolate and pistachios, it's an ideal cookie.
These are just about my favorite cookie in the world. They’re feather light, seemingly suspended together with dark chocolate chips, with a satisfying crisp-chewiness.
11 show-stopping cookies and treats that are perfect for a holiday cookie exchange or gifts.
A traditional Indian condiment gets a spring makeover with fennel and mint.
Easy Homemade Plum Sauce I'd never thought of making plum sauce with dried plums (duh).
Pistachio Gremolata Gremolata is an Italian garnish typically used to add a touch of bright
These pickled red onions come together in a flash to add bright flavor and crunch to all kinds of dishes.
This easy vegetarian ragu is also an incredibly versatile little number. Toss it with pasta, serve it over polenta, or spoon it onto crostini smeared with goat cheese.
This simple, springy pesto recipe is a versatile friend in the kitchen. Use to flavor whole grains, dollop on fish or chicken, or dress a bowl of pasta.
When fresh tomatoes have gone out of season, turn to BPA-free canned tomatoes to whip up this speedy, multipurpose sauce.
File this recipe under delicious aromatherapy, because your house will smell amazing as the onions roast. These flavorful onions are amazing atop pizza, chopped and added to cooked whole grains, and in our Rustic Roasted Onion & Spinach Tart. Be sure to use more mature spring onions with big bulbs at the end.
This is a good choice for an all-purpose curry paste recipe to add zip to Asian dishes. The delightfully complex flavor is superior to jarred curry paste.
Homemade chicken stock recipe is easy to make and has a mellow quality that makes it particularly versatile in soups and sauces.
I first encountered this sauce at a remote resort in the Copper Canyon. It's simple, but deceptively flavorful. Use it as a rustic salsa or as a sauce spooned over grilled chicken.
Our easy aioli recipe combines a simple shortcut and authentic garlicky, lemony flavor while trimming calories and fat.
The sugar and acid mellow out the intensity of the pepper for a salsa that’s tart and sweet with a hum of heat.
This homemade mayonnaise recipe is rich and tangy in a way that mayo from a jar can't duplicate.
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