Roasted eggplant pasta

We had one medium eggplant and one zucchini, so we tried this recipe: https://asimplepalate.com/blog/roasted-eggplant-pasta/ We cut the eggplant and zucchini into 1" dice, then separately tossed in enough canola to coat, and placed on separate baking sheets (because zucchini leaks more liquid). We roasted at 450 for 20 mins, tossing midway (and we broiled the… Continue reading Roasted eggplant pasta

Quinoa and vegetable soup

We tried this America's Test Kitchen recipe from its Bowls cookbook, available at Bowls: Vibrant Recipes with Endless Possibilities https://a.co/d/dyP4wtB To make this a brothier stew, we doubled the garlic, spices, and chicken broth. We found the diced avocado and fresh cilantro brightened the soup. (July 2022) We found a very similar recipe here: https://www.cookingclassy.com/quinoa-vegetable-stew/… Continue reading Quinoa and vegetable soup

Black bean dip

We generally followed this Melissa D'Arabian recipe: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/melissa-darabian/black-bean-dip-5536208 Our modifications: first, we halved the recipe to only one 14.5 oz can of no-salt black beans. Second, we drained the beans, placed in a small pot, then added 1/2 cup water. We brought to a boil, then reduced to a simmer (uncovered) until the beans were… Continue reading Black bean dip

Greek-style cauliflower and chickpea stew

We made this recipe: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1013051-stewed-cauliflower-with-red-onions-and-tomatoes?smid=ck-recipe-iOS-share For variety, we reduced the cauliflower (from one whole medium to 3/4) and added 1/2 red bell pepper and 1.5 cups canned chickpeas. Towards the end, we added 1 Tbsp pomegranate quince white balsamic vinegar in addition to 1 Tbsp sherry vinegar. (July 2022)

Black bean and sweet potato tacos

We combined two favorite recipes into a healthy and satisfying meal: first, we were inspired by a NYT recipe for sheet-pan chicken with sweet potatoes (https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019161-sheet-pan-chicken-with-sweet-potatoes-and-peppers?smid=ck-recipe-iOS-share): Preheat oven to 450. Prepare 1 sweet potato, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces (approx. 3/4" x 1/2"), 1 bell pepper (we used 1/2 yellow, 1/2 red); cut into… Continue reading Black bean and sweet potato tacos

Mushroom barley soup with leftover steak

We had about 1/3 lb leftover flat iron steak. We made this recipe: https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/mushroom-barley-soup/ Our modifications: first, we increased the liquid to 7.5 cups beef stock (4 cups no-salt beef stock plus 3.5 cups Better Than Bouillon beef broth). Second, we added a bay leaf to the simmering period. Third, we found that the soup… Continue reading Mushroom barley soup with leftover steak

Tuscan white bean and tuna salad

We were in search of a protein-rich, no-mayo lunch option. We made this recipe: https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/tuna-and-white-bean-salad. Based on our pantry, we used water-packed no-salt tuna, canned Great Northern beans, fresh baby spinach (in lieu of watercress), and half a shallot (which we diced and marinated in 2 tsp fresh lime juice to mute sharpness). We halved… Continue reading Tuscan white bean and tuna salad

Beans Marbella

We love the flavors of Chicken Marbella, and we were excited about this vegetarian version: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1023274-beans-marbella?smid=ck-recipe-iOS-share We generally followed the recipe, and we agree with the recommendation to bring to a rolling boil, cover, and then reduce to a 2-3 on our stovetop dial (the beans may float to the top) to prevent them from… Continue reading Beans Marbella

Chinese-style chicken meatball soup with napa cabbage

We found this soup very frustrating to make, even if it ultimately came out well: https://omnivorescookbook.com/napa-cabbage-soup/ This recipe called for only 3 cups of liquid. We ultimately had to increase to 9 cups of liquid (8 cups unsalted chicken stock plus 1 cup water). We sauteed about 2 Tbsp bacon, then added 4 cups broth.… Continue reading Chinese-style chicken meatball soup with napa cabbage