Cuisine: Vegetarian
Maitake Wild Rice Salad
Maitake mushrooms sometimes called Hen-of-the-Woods, or "dancing mushrooms" in Japan, are found at the base of trees, particularly old-growth oaks or maples. Compared to other mushrooms, maitake has shown better results in preventing and treating cancer and other health conditions. Maitake also has a positive effect on overall immunity. This Maitake Wild Rice Salad uses walnuts, which pair well with the nutty wild rice. I actually used a wild rice blend which is finished with lemon juice.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Cook: 20 mins
- Yields: 6 Servings
Cheesy Hasselback Potato Gratin
Who doesn't love a cheesy potato gratin? This Cheesy Hasselback Potato Gratin has creamy, layered potatoes that are baked to become crispy browned on top. It's a recipe where Hasselback potatoes meet gratin. The potatoes are thinly sliced and put in the casserole dish vertically, which creates way more crispy edges.
- Prep: 25 mins
- Cook: 1 hrs
- Yields: 6 Servings
Ikra, Eggplant Spread
Ikra is a Ukranian vegetable spread that's made of roasted eggplant, bell peppers, onions, carrots, and garlic. I had it at a restaurant recently and decided to make my own. This deliciously healthy spread can be served with sliced bread, pita chips or would work well with a charcuterie board.
- Prep: 35 mins
- Cook: 1 hrs 5 mins
- Yields: 6 Servings
Hot Corn Dip
This Hot Corn Dip is from Celebrate with Babs, by Barbara Costello, 2022. I have to say, it didn't last long, it's so good. You can make it ahead and put it in the oven before serving. I divided it into 2 separate casserole dishes, which worked well.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Cook: 35 mins
- Yields: 10 - 12 Servings
Egg Crunch Wrap
This Egg Crunch Wrap will liven up your breakfast or lunch. It uses eggs, sliced tomatoes, baby spinach, provolone cheese, and tortilla chips for the added crunch.
- Prep: 5 mins
- Cook: 10 mins
- Yields: 1 Serving
Zucchini Tart with Whipped Feta and Thyme
Yesterday, I thought there was nothing for lunch, but rummaged through the fridge and freezer and found one zucchini and some puff pastry. I came up with this Zucchini Tart with Whipped Feta and Thyme. Whipped feta is all over the internet and decided to see what all the hype was about. It's very versatile, you can use it as a dip, spread it on sandwiches, or even on pizza. It's really delicious.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Cook: 20 mins
- Yields: 2 - 3 Servings
One-Pot Pasta With Ricotta and Lemon
This One-Pot Pasta with Ricotta and Lemon from The New York Times is a mixture of ricotta and Parmesan, with the zest and juice of one lemon. It's light and refreshing and goes perfectly while watching Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy on CNN. I find it absolutely impossible to watch it without eating some Italian food...
- Prep: 5 mins
- Cook: 15 mins
- Yields: 4 Servings
Cheesy White Bean & Leek Casserole
I found this recipe for Cheesy White Bean & Leek Casserole on a package of dried beans when we lived in London in the ‘90s. As the Brits would say, this is cheap and cheerful! It’s actually one of our favorites. I haven’t made it in years and now will keep it in rotation.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Cook: 40 mins
- Yields: 4 Servings
Orange-Braised Carrots & Parsnips
These Orange-Braised Carrots & Parsnips are slow-roasted at a very low temperature, which intensifies the flavor. Parsnips are cousins to carrots, with a similar texture to potatoes. I love parsnips and feel like they are underutilized in the US. They have a sweet and mildly nutty taste.
- Prep: 25 mins
- Cook: 1 hrs 35 mins
- Yields: 6 Servings
Lentil Chickpea Salad with Maple Tahini Dressing
This Lentil Chickpea Salad with Maple Tahini Dressing is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and a power bowl of nutrition. It lasts in the fridge for up to 5 days, which makes it the perfect packable lunch.
- Prep: 30 mins
- Yields: 6 Servings