Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

4 Recipes to Showcase Sweet Summer Peaches

There are few things more delicious than a juicy peach, and since their season is short, we like to squeeze them in to as many meals as we can. Besides the perfect breakfast treat of peaches + yogurt with something crunchy, or its cocktail hour cousin, goat cheese + peaches […]

Chef's Notes Plus

All About Pâte à Choux

Pâte à choux is a simple and versatile French pastry batter made from milk (or water), butter, flour, and eggs. It is typically piped and baked to a crisp, hollow shell that is perfect for filling with sweet or savory ingredients. Even if you’ve never made pâte à choux, you’ve […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Beef and Cheese Empanadas

Makes 12 servings Empanadas are tiny little presents that you get to eat with your hands, and this recipe is one of our favorites! Put out bowls of inclusions, like chopped olives, raisins, or hard-boiled egg, so your family can work together to prepare their own special empanadas. Empanada Dough […]

Breakfast and Brunch, Pantry

Classic Puff Pastry

Makes 4 lb Use this dough to make folded pastries, like turnovers, or as the base for a freeform tart. To save extra for later, wrap it up tight and freeze. Defrost in the refrigerator the night before you want to use it again. If it’s your first time, this […]

Chef's Notes Plus, Family Fun

Easy Bread Baking

Whether it is wheat, rye, or gluten-free, bread is a staple food for most of us. We eat it at breakfast as toast, for lunch as peanut butter sandwiches, and with dinner to dip into our favorite soup. And like all things, bread that you make with your own hands […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Grilled Artichokes with Romesco Sauce

Makes 5 portions If you’ve never grilled an artichoke, prepare to be hooked. Their unmistakable flavor and creamy flesh is made all the more crave-worthy when slightly charred. It is the ideal accompaniment to savory romesco sauce, but you’ll enjoy it drizzled with tahini, garlic aioli, or even just a […]

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, […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Palmier with Prosciutto

Makes 36 pieces This is a savory variation of a classic French pastry made of puff pastry sprinkled with granulated sugar. The name palmier reflects the palm-leaf shape of the pastry. These palmiers are lined with prosciutto, and a dusting of Parmesan cheese replaces the sugar. Ingredients 1 sheet prepared […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Taking a Small Bite of Spanish Culture

Easy to eat and quick to serve, tapas have made their way from the bars and restaurants of Spain to capturing the attention of Americans. These tempting tidbits delight the palate with intense flavors and contrasting textures. Whether simple or complex in their preparation, served hot or cold, tapas make […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Vietnamese-Style Fried Spring Rolls

Makes 20 pieces Spring roll wrappers usually can be found in the produce section. We opted to panfry these spring rolls, rather than deep fry them. Be sure the oil is heated properly. Ingredients 2 tablespoons peanut oil 2 teaspoons minced ginger 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions, white portion only […]