Chef's Notes Plus

4th of July Side Dishes to Steal the Show

Either you’re the person who waits all year for a grilled hot dog or burger, or you’re the person testing the limits of those paper plates with a scoop of every side dish, because nothing beats a good potato salad. Of course, no food decision is a bad decision, so […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks, Side Dishes

Baba Ganoush

Makes 1 quart The puréed eggplant gives a silky smooth texture to this baba ghanoush. Enjoy it as a dip for vegetables or serve with pita bread. Its versatility makes it a natural candidate to put out on a meze table alongside other dips and spreads. Ingredients 2 large eggplants […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Barbecuing 101

These early days of summer are not like the ones we’ve known in the past, and the added stress and anxiety, coupled with not being able to have fun with our friends and family, is a lot for anyone to handle. We’re searching for a silver lining, and of course, […]

Salads

Brussels Sprout Slaw

Makes 6 servings This slaw is simple to assemble, but big on flavor. The richness of the mayo and acidity from the juice helps to balance the strong, salty flavors of the fish sauce for a dish that perfectly complements grilled meat, fish, and veggies. Ingredients 2 lb Brussels sprouts […]

Desserts, Pies and Tarts

Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Makes eight 4 1/2-inch round hand pies The slightly tangy cream cheese filling complements the acidity of the fruit in this hand pie. The cream cheese crust is tender yet durable, making these pies perfectly portable.

Chef's Notes Plus

Drink of the Summer: Frozen Aperol Spritz

If you watch the morning cable news shows, you have probably heard about ten million conversations surrounding The Song of the Summer. Inevitably, there are many songs of the summer, and while the concept is flawed, we like the sentiment. Because ultimately, if we’re talking about the song of the […]

Chef's Notes Plus, Family Fun

Grilling with the Whole Family!

It’s grilling season, and we wanted to remind you that grilling can be a family activity—even if Dad thinks he’s the grill-master! Grilling is an easy, quick, nutritious, and flavorful way to cook lean pieces of meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetables. Wood, gas, or charcoal heats the grill bars and […]

Sandwiches

Italian-Style Sub Sandwich

Makes 4 to 6 servings This is a classic summer sandwich, perfect for a backyard picnic or road trip to the beach. Substitute your favorite deli meats, like turkey, roast beef, or even tuna fish salad, but don’t miss out on the mayo + toppings spread that makes every sandwich […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

On-The Go Bites for Wherever LDW Takes You

Marking the unofficial end up summer is always bittersweet. Summer is special, and we think it deserves one last farewell bash this Labor Day Weekend. Whether you’re firing up the grill or taking the party to the beach, here are a few of our favorite savory bites, sweet treats, and […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Say Aloha to Summer with a Tiki Bash

There’s one weekend of summer left (what!?), which kind of begs for a party! If you’re throwing together a last-minute get-together, there is no better strategy than to make it a tiki party—and here’s why: Fun outfits. Tasty drinks. Delicious but low-effort food. Quality kitsch décor. Extraordinary music. OK, so […]

Main Dishes, Salads

Summer Pasta Salad with Pecorino and Dill

Makes 6 to 8 servings You can call this pasta salad and enjoy it room temperature or chilled, or you can keep the components hot for a late-summer dinner. Try basil, mint, or a combination of the two as a substitute for the dill, if you like.

Chef's Notes Plus

The Perfect Condiment for Summer Sandwiches

It’s Laura here, your DISH editor and certified beach bum. I grew up at the Jersey Shore, and between Memorial Day and Labor Day, there were three priorities: swim, sun, snacks. For me, the perfect beach snacks are as follows: cubed melon, pretzel rods (not sticks), shortbread cookies for a […]