Over the years, I’ve gotten considerably more fond of lentils. They are so much more than just soup. I love lentil salads. And that’s almost what this is (and can be!). It makes a great backdrop for a piece of grilled salmon, cod or Branzino. And that’s what we’re doing with it today. Continue reading
Lentils with Carrot-Fennel-Onion and Orange
18 Sunday Apr 2021
Posted in Carrots, Fennel, Gluten Free, Herbs, Lentils, Make Ahead, Mandarin, Vegetarian
The folks over at Leite’s Culinaria posted this terrific sounding
I enjoyed this lovely soup at the Worcester Museum of Art, in Massachusetts. Their café is a lovely place for lunch and their signature Pear and Wild Mushroom Soup is a must try it. It just stood out, so how could I not try it? Oh, I’m so happy I did, because it’s absolutely delicious. And is the inspiration for this lovely elixir. 

At our house, a cheese ball is synonymous with the holiday buffet table. I it’s perfect holiday food…best made ahead, keeps well and is just plain delicious. Have you ever really tasted a bad cheese ball? I haven’t, but this one is stellar.
I received a jar of delicious mixed nuts for my birthday. The Unbound Reader and Middle Son, we the source of this goodness. These nuts (not the children!) were addictive. I’m certain you noticed that past tense reference. They were crisp, ever so slightly sweet and salty, with a really savory spice flavor. Well, I thought it worthwhile to try and reproduce them in far greater quantity. This is that experiment.
Brussels Sprout and Fennel Chowder. Hmmmm. Intriguing, no? There’s cabbage soup, so why not Brussels sprouts, in liquid form. Well, folks, it works and it works well. This soup is vegetarian, even vegan, if you omit the cheese (but why would you?). It’s filling, without being heavy. And most importantly, it just tastes really, really delicious. 
This is a great little salad. It’s pretty, it holds up well and it’s delicious. Mandarins have just come into the market and they are wonderful. I find, you can eat the entire being, peel and all. And they’re gorgeous and just scream autumn.