(serves 4)
Adapted from Silk Road Cooking by Najmieh Batmanglij. I use less oil in this version than is called for in the original (featured in this week’s electronic newsletter), plus I’ve reduced the cooking time for the tomatoes, giving the dish a super-fresh profile. You’ll find this protein-rich salad particularly inviting in summer months when tomatoes are at their peak. Continue reading
This versatile vegetarian dish serves equally well as a main course or a hearty accompaniment. Substitute whatever produce you have on hand — zucchini, eggplant, cherry tomatoes and peppers in the summer or carrots, parsnips, fennel, broccoli, cauliflower and winter squash in colder months. Whatever vegetables you choose, the flavor is sure to be deep, complex and oh so good. Roasting takes any ordinary veggie and intensifies the flavors, delivering taste that’s utter magic.
Farro is an ancient wheat grain from Italy. It has a chewy, soft texture and nutty flavor when cooked. It’s worth seeking out — you’ll find it at Whole Foods and other quality markets.
This recipe traces roots in many directions: the Boston-style baked beans of my youth (who knows how that got imbedded in my mid-western heritage); Southern slow-braised greens and black-eyed peas; and spicy Indian stews are among the inspirational muses. The sauce has a mildly spicy, sweet-sour tang that permeates the creamy beans. Collards are the perfect leaf for this dish since their substance loves a slow braise — they don’t go all mushy on you, but hold their character even as they become tender.
This salad is full of robust flavor and texture—built from the seasonal bounty of summer. There is ample opportunity to improvise, too. Try adding or substituting any of the following: roasted peppers, artichoke hearts, celery, fennel, fresh herbs like parsley or chives, arugula, green beans, garbanzo beans, feta or fresh mozzarella cubes. Use your imagination—fueled by pantry, fridge and garden surplus.
(6 servings)
Crostini isn’t Greek, but comes from neighboring Italy. However, once you discover the delicious convenience of these toasted bread bites loaded with fabulous flavor, you’ll be dreaming up your own versions inspired by world cuisine.
Ingredients:
Method: