Easy Mushroom Ragu

easy-mushroom-ragu-recipe
This easy vegetarian ragu is also an incredibly versatile little number. Toss it with pasta, serve it over polenta, or spoon it onto crostini smeared with goat cheese.

Melone e Limone (Melon and Lemon)

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I fell in love with this simple, stunning Melone e Limone (Melon and Lemon) appetizer recently as a simple way to showcase fresh, ripe, peak-season fruit.

“Melted” Summer Squash

melted-summer-squash-recipe
This is one of my favorite ways to serve summer squash. You can use any type of squash, but I prefer the denser, green-fleshed varieties, such as zucchini.

Smoky-Sweet Tri Tip

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With a tender tri tip steak, wood chips and a hot grill, you can enjoy lip-smacking smoked barbecue any night.

Santa Maria-Style Beans

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This Central California-style barbecue side is a perfect dish to showcase the beauty and flavor of heirloom beans.

Basil-Mint Pesto

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This simple, springy pesto recipe is a versatile friend in the kitchen. Use to flavor whole grains, dollop on fish or chicken, or dress a bowl of pasta.

Carla Hall’s Spicy Carrot and Ginger Soup

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This carrot and ginger soup recipe demonstrates “Top Chef” contestant and cohost of “The Chew” Carla Hall’s deft touch with nourishing ingredients. It’s also the type of healthy everyday food she favors that leaves room for some well-chosen indulgences. She uses herbal tea bags as bouquet garni to infuse flavor and silken tofu instead of…