ROASTED POTATOES WITH GRUYERE

I don’t know how you feel about potatoes, but for me they are the ultimate comfort food. Whether they are fried, mashed, boiled or drowned in a béchemel sauce in a gratin, they are a go-to side for almost any meal. Here’s a simple roasted potato recipe with melted gruyere because, in my world, everything…

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BEET AND BLUE CHEESE SALAD

Once summer is a distant memory, my salads tend to be a bit on the dull side. So for those dark, dreary days, I’ve realized it’s important to add a little color and zing to my food. This salad not only brightens up a meal, but it’s a real crowd pleasure too. Enjoy! INGREDIENTS: (Serves…

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SEAFOOD STEW

Now that the weather is getting cooler, I’m embracing my inner soup and stew desires. If my memory was better, I’d remember what was the inspiration for this dish, but somehow it has escaped me. No matter, what I do remember is that this dish is delicious, hearty and satisfying. It’s great to serve on…

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TRUFFLE PASTA

Whenever I’m in midtown Manhattan, I always love to walk downtown a bit before heading into the subway on my way home. Naturally, I can’t help myself, so I stop into all the different gourmet shops and markets along the way. One of my favorites is Eataly, and I love walking through their pasta section…

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PORT TONIC

As sad as I am to say goodbye to summer, it seems only right to send it off with a refreshing cocktail. I started drinking these while visiting Portugal. It’s a lovely apértif to enjoy while deciding whether to order the bacalhau or the grilled sardines. It is a takeoff on a gin and tonic…

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GRILLED BROCCOLINI

I’m not a huge fan of broccoli, but somehow, these baby broccolis taste different to me—particularly when I grill them. This is a simple side dish that can be served as is, or with your favorite dip or salad dressing. Tzatziki or a red pepper puree would work great. INGREDIENTS (serves 3-4) ¼ cup sliced…

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TURKEY BURGER WITH CHEESE ON A PORTOBELLO BUN

If you’re looking for ways to lighten your meals without giving up on some of your favorite summer dishes, try this turkey burger. Turkey meat is a lower fat and cholesterol option than beef and with the right ingredients mixed in, you might not even notice that much of a difference. And rather than a…

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NO MAYO COLESLAW

Every year we have a big block party and I always like to bring something that goes with hotdogs and hamburgers. Because everything sits out for hours, I can’t make my usual coleslaw because it has mayo. Here’s a vinegar-based recipe with a tangy dressing. It’s best to bring a bowl of ice to place…

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GRILLED STEELHEAD TROUT

As a nice alternative to salmon, try steelhead trout. The fillets are usually thinner than most salmon fillets, so I find they cook more evenly on the grill. Here’s a simple recipe that comes together in no time. It’s a great last-minute dish for those lazy summer days. INGREDIENTS (serves 2) 1 lb steelhead fish,…

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ROASTED TOMATO SOUP

It’s harvest time, so that means the neighbors have way too many tomatoes to know what to do with them. So, being the lucky recipient of their abundance, I’m putting this year’s bounty to good use with this creamy roasted tomato soup. There’s nothing better than making tomato soup from fresh garden ingredients. Wait, oh…

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