Chef's Notes Plus

How to Cook Beans

Beans and other legumes are considered superfoods, with nutritional benefits that are helpful to people with many types of health concerns or dietary restrictions. Paired with vegetables, beans and legumes can be considered a complete meal and healthy source of protein. Beans are available dried and canned. Canned beans have […]

Chef's Notes Plus

How To: Break Down Artichokes

Artichokes. They are delicious. They are versatile. And their edible portions are so small compared to the effort it takes to get through the spiky exterior! But like the first person who looked at an artichoke and thought, “I bet I can cook the tiny center of that armadillo-flower,” we […]

Chef's Notes Plus

How to: Roast Vegetables without a Recipe

As we ease into autumn, we can finally celebrate the return of roasting—especially vegetables. We love roasting because it is one of the most delicious ways to enjoy seasonal fall produce, like hard-skinned squash, cauliflower, fennel, and Brussels sprouts (color = flavor), as well as incredibly easy and hands-off. Even […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Hummus bi Tahini

Makes 1 quart This is a basic hummus recipe that is perfect as is, but is also endlessly customizable. Just like the ones you see in the store, you can top this hummus with anything from olive tapenade to roasted red peppers. Sprinkle the hummus with spice blends, like za’atar, […]

Main Dishes

Individual Lasagnas with Spring Vegetables

Makes 4 servings Get your kids or guests to help assemble the lasagnas. Let each “sous chef” add one ingredient—noodles, purée, veggies—to the plate. If you can’t find whole grain lasagna noodles, conventional dry lasagna noodles will work just fine. Ingredients Kosher salt, as needed 1 bunch (approximately 1 pound) […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Ingredient Spotlight: Dates

When you are food-minded, thinking about dates makes your heart flutter for a very different reason. Luckily, the dates we have in mind are a bit less awkward and nerve-wracking than the romantic kind. Dates, which are the fruit of the date palm, are one of nature’s sweetest creations. You […]

Salads

Kale, Cashew, and Cranberry Pasta Salad

Makes 4 to 6 portions This pasta salad is great cold or at room temperature (a gift from the meal prep fairies), but it’s just as good hot, if you don’t have time to give it a good chill. Ingredients 12 oz whole wheat penne 1/4 cup olive oil 1/2 […]

Side Dishes

Kamut With Fresh Corn and Peas

Makes 6 servings Ingredients 2 cups kamut 4 ears fresh corn 1 gallon water or vegetable broth, plus more as needed 3 tablespoons kosher salt, plus more as needed 1 bay leaf 1 thyme sprig 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more as needed 1 small onion, peeled and cut into […]

Chef's Blog

Kid-Friendly Lunch Recipe for Back to School

Back-to-school was always my favorite season. I was never a summer kid, and heading back to the classroom meant cooler weather, new Lisa Frank school supplies, and school friends! Since the day I learned how, I don’t think I have stopped talking. At home I had three older brothers who […]

Side Dishes

Lima Bean & Roasted Corn Succotash

Makes 8 servings This dish sounds simple, but the addition of tarragon adds something a little unexpected and savory. For a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute olive oil for the butter. Ingredients 1 1/2 lb frozen lima beans, defrosted 4 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen (defrosted if frozen) 1/3 […]

Main Dishes, Sandwiches

Madeira-Glazed Portobello Sandwiches

Makes 8 servings Portobello mushrooms a dense, meaty texture when cooked. They can be prepared for this recipe a day ahead; cool the broiled mushroom caps completely and refrigerate until needed. Slice the mushrooms and allow them to return to room temperature before assembling the sandwiches. Use dry marsala or […]