Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup is velvety, tasty, nutritionally loaded – and surprisingly simple to make. There are many varieties of squash, but nothing rivals the queenly butternut squash in this soup because of its smooth, creamy texture. Sauted onion creates a savory base, and a touch of spice lends interest to the otherwise sweet and pleasing…

French Green Lentils with Lemon and Oregano

Lentils come in many varieties.  The beautiful, marbled French Green lentil is fabulous for this simple salad, as it has a great flavor and holds its shape well after cooking. I dress them when still warm with olive oil, lemon, and lots of fresh oregano.  Oregano is a perennial herb and is in fresh, full…

Cilantro Garlic Lime Sauce

At once a dressing and a dipping sauce, this green concoction is fresh, tangy, fragrant and irresistibly full of cilantro and lime. I’ve made many versions of this sauce to pour on grilled steak, but decided to give it a try on grilled chicken and with cooked rice.  It was fabulous on both.  It would…

Orange Fennel Rice Salad

Juicy navel oranges team up with crunchy fennel, slivered almonds, and brown rice to make this salad a standout addition to a meal, or a great portable lunch on the go. The addition of fresh mint keeps this mid-winter salad bright.  Use your best olive oil and freshly ground black pepper to add other layers…

Miso Broth Chicken or Tofu

This rich, brothy dish tastes much richer and more complex than it should, as it takes just 15 minutes to get together. Why?  The umami-bomb flavors of miso, soy, and shitaki create instant depth.  Sauteed onion gives this dish backbone, while fresh grated ginger adds sparkle.  Use sliced chicken breast or tofu for substance, and…

Granola

Granola made at home is surprisingly easy, and in my experience, better tasting and less expensive than anything you can purchase.  This is a classic granola, rich with cinnamon and crunchy with sliced almonds. Granola 8 cups (28 oz) rolled whole oats 3 cups (11oz) sliced raw almonds 2 heaping TB ground cinnamon 3/4 tsp….