Chef's Notes Plus

Party-Ready Crudités

Vegetable appetizers are a perfect way to start a meal. They run the gamut from simple dips and spreads like guacamole, made from silken smooth avocados, to complex dishes that are sophisticated enough to feature at the most elegant dinner. One of the most popular vegetable appetizers, and one that […]

Main Dishes

Polenta with Sausage Sauce

Serves 4 Dried mushrooms are great for adding richness and savoriness, but they can be a little pricey. As an alternative, look for bulk mushroom powder (you’ll just need a pinch) or you can omit them altogether. For a dairy-free version of the polenta, use olive oil instead of butter […]

Main Dishes

Risotto with Winter Squash and Sweet Sausage

Makes 4 to 6 servings Ingredients 1 small winter squash, such as acorn or butternut 1/2 cup plus 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, or as needed Kosher salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons chopped marjoram 5 cups Chicken Broth 1 lb 8 oz sweet […]

Allergen Friendly, Salads, Side Dishes

Roasted Beets with Feta and Tangerines

Makes 5 servings This beet dish can be served warm, room temperature, or even chilled as a make-ahead recipe. Use any sweet citrus you have on hand in place of the tangerines, including clementines, blood oranges, or Sumos. Ingredients Beets 3 large beets 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon […]

Free Recipes, Side Dishes

Roasted Delicata Squash with Buttermilk Dressing

Makes 8 servings We use delicata squash because it’s beautiful, but you can use any squash for this dish. Delicata and acorn don’t need to be peeled, but be sure to remove the tough peel from heartier-skinned squashes, like butternut or pumpkin. Ingredients 2 lb 12 oz delicata squash 4 […]