Macaroni and Cheese

Classic comfort food. Perfect for blustery winter nights.

Macaroni and Cheese

8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups hot half-and-half
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 cup white cheddar
1 cup … Read more

Israeli Couscous with Asparagus, Peas, and Snaps

This is based on a Bon Appetit recipe that I tweaked a bit here and there. It’s another recipe that I eat only rarely because of the processed wheat…but it’s a delicious treat! Making it with quinoa would make it a whole grain dish…and a tasty alternative, too.

Israeli Couscous with Asparagus, Peas, and Snaps
Makes 4-6 servings, depending on Read more

Udon Noodles with Black Bean Garlic Sauce

Black bean garlic sauce is used heavily in Szechuan cooking. It’s savory and intense…and very salty. Use sparingly!

Black Bean Noodles with Mushrooms and Green Beans

12 ounces whole wheat udon noodles
8 ounces fresh shiitake mushrooms
8 ounces green beans, cut into1″ lengths and parboiled
4 green onions, minced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 red pepper flakes
1/2 cup … Read more

Soba with Winter Greens and Mushrooms

This pasta dish is based on a Sunset Magazine recipe, but I’ve removed the cheese, oil, and salt to make it both completely plant-based and healthier.

Soba with Winter Greens and Mushrooms

6 ounces soba (buckwheat) pasta
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 leek, white and light green parts only, chopped
1 large garlic clove, minced
1 bunch dandelion greens, … Read more

Soba Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

This noodle salad is based on a recipe by Susan Feniger, co-chef at L.A.’s Border Grill. It’s a keeper!

Soba Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

VINAIGRETTE
1 cup orange juice (fresh is best, frozen works fine)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
Toasted sesame oil—a very light sprinkle, for flavor
1 tablespoon unseasoned rice

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Summer Soba Salad

After months of rain, we finally have warm weather, and so I made this crunchy, filling, cooling noodle salad this evening and it was a perfect supper for summer! Be warned—I think I’ll be making more versions of this 😉

Summer Soba Salad

1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (or vegetable stock)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons peeled fresh ginger, … Read more