Rainbow Peanut Slaw

So ya'll know my feelings about farmer's markets. Two weeks ago I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the market with Craig's mom, and we had a great time. In addition to all the wonderful goodies we picked up, I grabbed some sweet green cabbage. It has a unique shape, sort of like a tulip. The farmer's explained it was a sweet heirloom variety. I am not sure of the official name, but it was sooo delicious!

Anyway, after returning home with a ton of goodies it seemed necessary to immediately make a tasty slaw. Because I hate mayo, I decided to do a Thai inspired peanut slaw, using all the tasty veggies I grabbed at the farmer's market. I combined cabbage, bok choy, radishes, carrots with some fresh herbs. It was simple, flavorful and delicious. As a bonus, the peanut dressing is extremely filling.

It turned out so well I decided to make it again for our cookout this weekend. It was the perfect compliment to my Thai lamb kabobs.

Read more for the full recipe!
Read more »

Lentil and Wild Rice Stew

So I decided to post twice tonight since the next few days are going to be CRAZY busy with work and holiday parties. It has gotten REALLY cold here in Boston. The past few weeks have been so nice and now I'm leaving the house with a hat and gloves every day! The one great thing about cold weather is that you crave soup. This weekend, I wanted lentil soup so badly I decided to come up with a new version!

This stew (or soup or stewp, whatever you want to call it) is super simple and very tasty. Lentils, wild rice, and some veggies combine for a filling meal that is light and healthy. The holidays can overwhelm you with indulgences, sometimes its nice to just enjoy a simple meal that isn't filled with calories, fat and/or salt. I also love this recipe because it makes ample leftovers that heat up nicely in the microwave.

Read more for the full recipe!
Read more »

Grilled Carrots and Radishes

I love experimenting with the grill. Over the past few days we have grilled chicken wings, foccacia, and a variety of veggies. On Saturday, I experienced the Union Square Farmer's Market for the first time. I was blown away by the variety of local produce, meats, cheese and bread. Needless to say, I was inspired to try a few new things. I was particularly excited by the huge radishes I found.

This is an incredibly simple way to prepare veggies and looks and tastes great. Full disclosure: I only prepped these dishes, Grillmaster Craig oversaw the cooking.

Read more for the full recipe!
Read more »

Radish Cabbage Slaw

Radishes are in season, easy to find at the grocery store or farmer's market and a healthy, crisp addition to any salad. This slaw is simple spring meal that you can throw together in minutes. Crisp green cabbage is filled with vitamin C, fiber, sulphur and iodine. Cabbage is also an excellent detoxifier, purifying blood and removing toxins such as free radicals and uric acid. This healthy slaw is an excellent alternative to traditional cole slaw at your next barbecue or picnic. The dressing, a antioxidant packed combo of lime, garlic and ginger, is tangy and light.

Read more for the full recipe
Read more »

Napa Cabbage Salad with Chia Vinagrette

Everytime I go to the grocery store, I contemplate buying some napa cabbage. The oval shaped and yellow tinged veggies always catch my eye. I decided to grab one yesterday and create a salad/slaw that highlighted this tasty and healthy option. I thought the crunch of the cabbage would pair well with the crunch of chia seeds that I planned to use in a dressing. The rest sort of came together with ingredients I had lying around. This is a very filling salad, you coul d add some chicken or shrimp and make it a meal. Napa cabbage is also called celery cabbage or Chinease cabbage. It is easy to find in most grocery stores and farmers markets and is distinguished by its large oval shape and wide leaves. It can be eaten raw or cookd and adds a great crunch to stir fries and soups. Like other varities of cabbage, it's packed with vitamins A and C, and full of antioxidants and fiber. Full recipe after the jump.

Read more »

Pomegranate-Balsamic Glazed Carrots

These carrots make a tasty and quick side dish that is both delicious and impressive. I was lucky enough to receive some fantastic pomegranate balsamic vinegar as a gift, so I decided to put it to use. The tangy balsamic mixes with the sweetness of the honey and a touch of spicy cayenne to create a complex and unique dish. It's easy to whip up a pomegranate balsamic mixture of your own.  I urge you to give this one a try.

Recipe and photos after the jump.
Read more »