“Since we’ve been cooking more at home, we have more energy, we’re saving money, and we are having fun making our meals together.”

“I never really thought of myself as a cook before, but this has turned into my special culinary hobby.”

Chef’s Favorites

Pasta Puttanesca: Monday, Sept 16, 2024

Pasta Puttanesca: Monday, Sept 16, 2024

There are a number of versions of how this classic pasta dish originated. Some say that Puttanesca was first made in the Spanish Quarter brothels of Naples. Other stories include chef Sandro Petti of Ischia (just west of Naples) creating the recipe when asked to cook for friends late one night. His pantry was a bit exhausted from a busy weekend and he only had olives, capers and sauce ingredients remaining. He created Pasta Aulive et Chiapparielle (pasta with olives and capers), or Puttanesca.

Wherever it originated, this dish is a favorite in my home kitchen. It works with any combination of vegetables you have on hand.

read more
Kale with Roasted Potato Rounds, Egg and Tempeh, Thursday, September 12, 2024

Kale with Roasted Potato Rounds, Egg and Tempeh, Thursday, September 12, 2024

This kale dish is a “go to” version of kale in my house. Any kale will work, but I’m partial to Lacinato Kale as it’s easier to chiffonade.
Easier to what? Chiffonade is just a fancy term from French cookery for stacking leaves, rolling them and cutting them perpendicularly into thin strips. The term literally means, “little ribbons.”

The combination of the poached egg, roasted potatoes and smoky tempeh with the kale provides a delicious meal. Add a piece of seasonal fruit and enjoy a fresh, vitamin-packed meal.

read more
Chard with Fresh Peaches and Feta: Tuesday, August 27, 2024

Chard with Fresh Peaches and Feta: Tuesday, August 27, 2024

The last of the seasonal peaches are in the grocery stores and farmer’s markets now so be sure and take advantage of their availability.

Peaches deliver a stand-out performance tonight as they fan out across a background of nutritious green chard and protein-packed quinoa. This plate is a kaleidoscope worthy of a Busby Berkeley Musical. Strong supporting performances will be delivered by sliced “crispy tenders” and toasted almonds. “Oohs” and “Ahhs” are appropriate.

read more
Swiss Chard with Poached Apples and Roasted Potatoes: Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Swiss Chard with Poached Apples and Roasted Potatoes: Tuesday, August 20, 2024

The new apple crop has started appearing in grocery stores and farmers markets. There’s nothing quite like the flavor of fresh, tree-ripened apples. Tonight you’ll use these seasonal gifts as a feature in your greens dish.

Poached apple slices, seared fennel and thin-sliced Field Roast Apple sausage will share the spotlight with Swiss Chard this evening. The greens dish will be served over caramelized potato slices with a dusting of Gorgonzola crumbles to finish the plate. MMMM, MMMM, GOOD!

read more
Swiss Chard with Shrimp and Mango: Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Swiss Chard with Shrimp and Mango: Tuesday, July 30, 2024


Chard with an Asian flair is served with shrimp and fresh mango tonight. The sauce is accented with mint and basil while sliced water chestnuts add additional snap to each savory bite. The greens are served over the ever-versatile quinoa and topped off with toasted almond slices. Tasty dining awaits.

read more