Main Dishes

Anelli di Ricotta e Spinaci (Rings of Ricotta and Spinach)

Makes 6 to 8 servings Anelli is Italian for “rings.” These crespelle will have a rich dairy taste thanks to the ricotta, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and melted butter. Enjoy them with medium-bodied dry white to cut through that velvety texture with some green fruit acidity. The dish will also be at home […]

Soups and Stews

Asparagus-Edamame Bisque

Makes about 2 quarts This creamy soup is silky-smooth, with light, delicate flavors just perfect for those early spring days. Since frozen beans are often more available than fresh, it’s perfectly fine to use them in this soup. Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cups thinly sliced leeks 2 shallots, […]

Main Dishes

Baked Smoked Salmon Gnocchi with Asparagus

Makes 6 servings Ingredients 1 cup whole milk 3 oz (6 tbsp) unsalted butter, plus more as needed for baking dish Kosher salt, as needed Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional) 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 8 oz smoked salmon, processed to a paste 3 large eggs 18 asparagus spears (about […]

Main Dishes

Classic Lasagna Bolognese

Makes 6 to 8 servings Many variations on lasagna may be found all over Italy. If you go toward the south of Italy, you will see cooks using ricotta instead of béchamel. This is the classic lasagna Bolognese; try this version and you won’t be disappointed. If you want your […]

Desserts

Crème Caramel

Makes 6 servings Crème caramel is a dessert that produces its own sauce, as long as you are patient with it. After the custard bakes, it needs to cool long enough for two things to happen: the custard must become firm enough to unmold, and the caramel underneath the custard […]

Main Dishes

Crêpes with Spicy Mushrooms and Chile Cream Sauce

Makes 4 servings We like the tender texture of crêpes in this dish, but the dish would be equally delicious made with regular or whole wheat flour tortillas. Ingredients Spicy Mushroom Filling 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup minced onions 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic 4 cups sliced button or […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Make Creamy Salad Dressings without a Recipe

As salad dressings go, oil and vinegar—their cute couple name is Vinaigrette—are sort of the popular kids. Everyone likes them, they get along with anyone/salad, and here’s where this metaphor falls apart: you don’t need a recipe. But sometimes a salad and/or your brain are just begging for a creamy […]

Soups and Stews

New England Clam Chowder

Makes 8 servings Ingredients 3 dozen chowder clams 2 1/2 cups bottled clam juice, or as needed 2 slices bacon, minced 1 1/4 cups diced onion 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 4 cups diced yellow or white potatoes 3 cups heavy cream or half and half 6 tablespoons dry sherry, or […]

Main Dishes

Potato Gnocchi With A Quick Fondue

Serves 4 Ingredients 1 1/2 lb Idaho or other starchy potatoes Kosher salt, as needed 1 cup all-purpose or “00” flour, or as needed 1 large egg 1 egg yolk 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (2 oz), plus more for serving Pinch of grated nutmeg 1 cup heavy cream 1 ounce […]

Chef's Notes Plus

What I’m Cooking: Creamy Cashew Pesto Pasta

Despite being a huge fan of cheese and butter and birthday cakes, I don’t eat much dairy at home. We don’t get along. I’ve learned to really embrace dairy-free cooking, and though no one believes me when I say it, I don’t miss cooking with milk products as much as […]