Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Silken Tofu and Cucumber Dip

Makes 12 servings Tofu is misunderstood, but we think its perceived flaws (soft, bland) are also its strengths. Because it is so neutral in flavor, tofu is actually a great base for dips and plant-forward creamy recipes, like puddings and creamy soups, because it adds protein and texture without the […]

Free Recipes, Soups and Stews

Silky Zucchini Soup

Makes 4 servings This simple summer recipe is inspired by the menu at Savor on our San Antonio, Texas campus. Garnish the soup with diced, julienned, or shaved zucchini, if you like. We especially like it with a crusty piece of bread for dipping! This recipe makes about four 1 […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Simple Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer Produce

Every year, we try to avoid it, but it is inevitable: summer will end eventually—though luckily, only temporarily. Summer produce doesn’t leave quietly, and in its waning weeks, our gardens and farm stands explode with cucumbers, tomatoes, summer squash, eggplants! The mountains of produce are daunting, but irresistible, since in […]

Grilling, Main Dishes

Smoked Pork Belly

Makes 5 to 6 servings Pork belly is literally the belly portion of the pig. It’s where bacon comes from, and like bacon, it is a delicious piece of meat. While it cooks, the fat renders from the belly and naturally bastes the strips of tender meat. Pair it with […]

Main Dishes

Soft-Shell Crabs with Grilled Scallions and Lemon Polenta

Makes 6 servings Soft-shell crabs are in season in the spring, so keep your eye out because the soft-shell season doesn’t last that long. Be sure to have the apron, lungs, and eyes removed by your fishmonger and use the crabs as soon as possible. Ingredients Preserved Lemon Zest 3 […]

Salads, Side Dishes

Solterito Nikkei (Peruvian Edamame Salad with Seaweed)

Makes 4 servings In Peru, choclo can be found as an accompaniment to nearly any dish, and in this chilled salad, it marries with soybeans and seaweed inspired by this Peruvian-Japanese fusion dish. Look for frozen choclo at specialty markets or online. Don’t mistake it for the crunchy, corn-nut-style commonly […]

Sandwiches

Spiced Pork Pitas

Makes 6 servings Boston butt steaks are slices off of a larger Boston butt roast. They are usually about 1-inch thick, and unlike the larger roast, you can grill them hot and fast for a juicy, tender meat. If you can’t find the Boston butt steak, ask your butcher if […]

Grilling

Spicy Lamb Kebabs With Pickled Grapes

Makes 8 servings Lamb Kebabs Ingredients 10 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more as needed 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon minced flat-leaf parsley 2 tablespoons minced oregano 1 tablespoon ground coriander 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger 2 teaspoons Spanish-style paprika 2 teaspoons […]

Salads, Side Dishes

Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad

Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise, remove all the seeds, and cut into thin slices. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers with the lime juice, sugar, salt, chiles, and onions, and marinate for 15 minutes. Add the mint, cilantro, and peanuts, toss, and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Spicy Watermelon Refresher

Makes about 8 servings The key to this perfect summer refresher is great watermelon, so if your melon is a dud, you may want to try something else. Of course, you can also make the same mixture with cantaloupe or pineapple (or basically any other fruit!), so pick what’s tastiest […]