One-Skillet Bok Choy & Kale with Tofu

Photo of kale greens from Antoni Shkraba from Unsplash

Whipping up a one-skillet dish of bok choy and kale with tofu is both simple and incredibly satisfying. This recipe harmoniously combines the tender greens of bok choy and kale with the protein-rich goodness of tofu, creating a hearty, well-balanced meal in a single pan. Beyond the culinary joy, this dish offers a burst of nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. Embrace the simplicity of this recipe and savor the delightful flavors and health benefits it brings to your table.

Photo of kale greens from Antoni Shkraba from Unsplash

One-Skillet Bok Choy & Kale with Tofu

Kroger
This recipe harmoniously combines the tender greens of bok choy and kale with the protein-rich goodness of tofu, creating a hearty, well-balanced meal in a single pan.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (14 oz) package extra-firm tofu, drained
  • 3.5 Tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2.5 tsp rice vinegar, divided
  • 1 Tbsp peanut oil
  • 1 Tbsp ginger, grated
  • 4 green onions, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups bok choy, roughly chopped
  • 4 cups kale, roughly chopped

Instructions
 

  • Cut tofu into ¾” slices, then in half crosswise. Drain on paper towels 15 minutes.
  • In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil and ½ teaspoon vinegar.
  • In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, add peanut oil. Cook tofu until golden brown, 3 minutes per side. On baking sheet, arrange tofu; brush with soy sauce mixture.
  • In same skillet, cook ginger, green onions and garlic until fragrant. Add remaining 1½ tablespoons soy sauce and 2 teaspoons vinegar. Mix in bok choy; cook until wilted.
  • Mix in kale; cook until wilted. Gently toss in tofu to combine.

Notes

This recipe is from the Kroger website.

Vegan French-Style Braised Leeks

Photo of freshly washed leeks from Andrew Gaertner from Pexels

Crafting vegan French-style braised leeks is a culinary journey that’s delightfully simple and immensely gratifying. This dish highlights the leeks’ natural delicate flavor and delivers a rich, comforting taste, reminiscent of traditional French cuisine. However, the joy isn’t solely about taste; it’s also about embracing the goodness of plant-based, wholesome ingredients in this classic recipe. The process is uncomplicated, and the result is a dish that will warm your heart with its depth of flavor and the knowledge that you’ve chosen a compassionate and delicious path to savor.

Photo of freshly washed leeks from Andrew Gaertner from Pexels

Vegan French-Style Braised Leeks

Camilla Sanderson
This dish beautifully accentuates the leeks' delicate flavor, delivering a rich, comforting taste that's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 2 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 leeks, thickly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 250 ml vegetable stock
  • 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • A pinch of salt and black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Heat the oil in a large skillet or frying pan on a medium heat. Once hot, add the leeks and sauté over the heat, stirring often, for 3 minutes until nicely browned. Then add the garlic and stir over the heat for another minute until browned.*
  • Once browned, add the vegetable stock and the rest of the ingredients, stir well, put the lid on and turn the heat down to low. Simmer over the low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • It is ready when the leeks are meltingly soft. Test them with a sharp knife which should slide in very easily. If there is any resistance against the knife, keep cooking for a few more minutes with the lid on until they are super soft.
  • Once soft, take the pan off the heat and serve, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. It will also keep for up to half an hour with the lid on to keep it warm.

Notes

* Be careful to ensure that the garlic does not burn or else it will give a bitter flavour to the dish. If the garlic starts to catch at all, just add a splash of water to bring the temperature down and stop it from burning.
** If it starts to look too dry at any point (it will depend on the size of your pan and how well the lid fits), just add a little more water to make it more saucy. If it looks too wet, just remove the lid and boil it off for a few minutes until there is the amount of sauce that you prefer.
This recipe is originally from the Cooking with Camilla blog.

Butternut Squash Soup

Photo of squash soup from Valeria Boltneva from Unsplash

Whipping up a batch of homemade butternut squash soup is a straightforward and deeply satisfying experience. This method ensures that the natural sweetness and nuttiness of the squash shine through, resulting in a comforting, creamy soup that’s perfect for fall. Yet, it’s not just about the flavors; butternut squash soup is also a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that can support your well-being. So, indulge in the simplicity of creating this classic soup and savor its nourishing goodness.

Photo of squash soup from Valeria Boltneva from Unsplash

Butternut Squash Soup

Love & Lemons
The natural sweetness and nuttiness of the squash shine through, resulting in a comforting, creamy soup that's perfect for fall.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Soup
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 5.5-Quart Dutch Oven
  • 1 Blender

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1 (3 lb) butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cubed)
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped
  • 1/2 Tbsp fresh rosemary, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 3-4 cups vegetable broth
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley, toasted pepitas, and/or crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, salt, and several grinds of fresh pepper and sauté until soft, 5 to 8 minutes. Add the squash and cook until it begins to soften, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes.
  • Add the garlic, sage, rosemary, and ginger. Stir and cook 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant, then add 3 cups of the broth. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until the squash is tender, 20 to 30 minutes.
  • Let cool slightly and pour the soup into a blender, working in batches if necessary, and blend until smooth. If your soup is too thick, add up to 1 cup more broth and blend. Season to taste and serve with parsley, pepitas, and crusty bread.

Notes

This recipe is originally from the Love and Lemons blog.

Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta

Photo of bruschetta on toast from Lucie Liz from Pexels

Crafting heirloom tomato bruschetta is both effortless and gratifying when using the freshest ingredients. The simplicity of this recipe allows the natural flavors to shine, turning humble ingredients into a burst of vibrant taste. Beyond its culinary pleasures, heirloom tomatoes bring their own medicinal benefits, packed with antioxidants and vitamins that promote overall well-being. Embrace the ease of creating this classic dish and relish in the wholesome goodness it brings to your table.

Photo of bruschetta on toast from Lucie Liz from Pexels

Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta

Simple Scratch
Crafting heirloom tomato bruschetta is both effortless and gratifying when using the freshest ingredients.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Resting Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 18 minutes
Course Appetizer
Servings 10 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lb heirloom tomatoes (cored and diced)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (plus more for seasoning)
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic (peeled and minced)
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for toasting bread)
  • 20 medium basil leaves (stacked, rolled, and thinly sliced)
  • 1 loaf crusty bread (grilled or toasted in oven)

Instructions
 

  • Place chopped tomatoes in a large colander set into a bowl or sink. Season with salt and gently toss. Let this sit for 2 hours or up to over night, tossing occasionally. (the longer the better)
    Save the tomato liquids to make a vinaigrette or discard.
  • Meanwhile add minced garlic to a small sauté pan with the olive oil. Heat on low, stirring occasionally until the garlic has softened and is fragrant. Remove and let cool completely.
  • Once the tomatoes have sat, transfer to a bowl, pour in garlic oil and slice and add the basil. Toss, taste and season with more salt if desired.
  • Slice bread and drizzle with olive oil or spray with olive oil spray. Grill bread or toast in a 400° oven until golden, about 8 minutes.
  • You can serve the heirloom tomato topping in a bowl alongside the grilled or toasted bread and spoon desired amount onto each piece or prepare each slice with equal amounts of the tomato bruschetta and arrange onto a platter.

Notes

This recipe comes from the Simply Scratch blog.

Mrs. Laguda’s Tomato “Gravy” Recipe

Tomato sauce
A cherished family heirloom, this tomato sauce recipe has been passed down through generations, carrying with it the essence of tradition and the flavors of simplicity. With just a handful of carefully selected ingredients, you can create a tomato sauce that is rich in both taste and history.
Tomato sauce

Mrs. Laguda's Tomato "Gravy" Recipe

Mrs. Laguda from Ambler, PA
We are excited to share this family tomato sauce recipe from a community member!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Resting Time 1 hour
Course Ingredient
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 people

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Tbsp olive oil
  • 25 plum tomatoes (chopped into 1/2" cubes)
  • 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
  • 1 yellow onion (chopped into 1/4" pieces)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 Tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 Tbsp dried thyme

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
  • Add chopped tomatoes and garlic and cook down, stirring occasionally for 2-3 hours or until it reaches a sauce-like consistency.
  • Take sauce off heat and immediately add basil, salt, pepper, sugar, oregano, & thyme.
  • Stir and let sit for at least 1 hour before serving, ideally over night.

Notes

Note: feel free to scale this recipe according to the amount of tomatoes you have.
Because you do not peel or blanch the tomatoes beforehand, there will be some pieces of tomato skin in the final sauce. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion or stand blender to process the cooled sauce in batches.
This family recipe was submitted by Mrs. Laguda, a community member from Laguda Tailors in Ambler, PA. Her “gravy” is praised by clients, friends, and family alike for its simple yet impactful flavor! We are excited to share it with you today.

Greek Salad

Photo of Greek salad from Lina Luoto from Pexels

Greek salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables with the tanginess of feta cheese and the richness of Kalamata olives. With minimal ingredients and simple assembly, you can create a delightful salad that is both light and satisfying. The crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, and thinly sliced red onions come together in a harmonious blend of colors and tastes. Tossed in a zesty dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, Greek salad offers a delightful balance of textures and a burst of Mediterranean flavors. Embrace the simplicity of making this classic salad and savor its deliciousness with every refreshing bite.

Photo of Greek salad from Lina Luoto from Pexels

Greek Salad

Love and Lemons
Greek salad offers a delightful balance of textures and a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 Tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove (minced)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano (more for sprinkling)
  • 1/4 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Salad

  • 1 English cucumber (cut lengthwise, seeded, and sliced 1/4 inch thick)
  • 1 green bell pepper (chopped into 1 inch pieces)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 5 oz feta cheese (cut into 1/2 inch cubes)
  • 1/3 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves

Instructions
 

  • Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, mustard, salt, and several grinds of pepper.
  • On a large platter, arrange the cucumber, green pepper, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, red onions, and olives. Drizzle with the dressing and very gently toss. Sprinkle with a few generous pinches of oregano and top with the mint leaves. Season to taste and serve.

Notes

Note: Feta in brine is best for this recipe.
This recipe came from the Love and Lemons blog.

Asparagus Risotto

Photo of asparagus risotto from Katrin Morenz from Wikimedia Commons

Asparagus risotto is a creamy and flavorful dish that showcases the vibrant taste of asparagus in a comforting way. With a handful of ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can create a delightful risotto that is both satisfying and indulgent. The tender asparagus spears, combined with the creamy Arborio rice, create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish, asparagus risotto offers a delightful balance of earthy asparagus and creamy rice, resulting in a luxurious dish that will please your taste buds. Embrace the process of making this risotto and savor its deliciousness with every luscious spoonful.

Photo of asparagus risotto from Katrin Morenz from Wikimedia Commons

Asparagus Risotto

Love and Lemons
Asparagus risotto offers a delightful balance of earthy asparagus and creamy rice, resulting in a luxurious dish that will please your taste buds.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cups chopped leeks
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice (rinsed)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (room temperature)
  • 1 bunch asparagus (tough ends trimmed, stalks chopped into small pieces)
  • 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp chopped chives
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, basil, tarragon, and/or dill, plus more for garnish)
  • Lemon zest (for garnish)
  • Grated pecorino cheese (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or medium Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the leeks and season with the salt and a few grinds of pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until soft. Add the garlic and stir to incorporate. Stir in the rice and let it cook for 1 minute. Stir in the wine and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, or until the wine cooks down.
  • Add the broth, ¾ cup at a time, stirring continuously between each addition. Allow each addition of broth to be absorbed by the rice before adding the next. Add the asparagus with the last addition of the broth. Cook until the rice is al dente. The risotto should be soft and creamy.
  • Add the lemon juice, chives, and mixed herbs and season to taste. Garnish with the lemon zest and more herbs. Serve with grated cheese, if desired.

Notes

This recipe came from the Love and Lemons blog.

French Potato Salad

Photo of roasted potatoes from Nadin from Pexels

French potato salad with tarragon is a flavorful and classic dish that combines the creamy goodness of potatoes with the aromatic touch of tarragon. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you can create a delightful salad that is both comforting and satisfying. The tender boiled potatoes, tossed with a tangy vinaigrette and fresh tarragon, create a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a light lunch, French potato salad with tarragon offers a delightful balance of tastes and textures. Embrace the simplicity of making this salad and savor its deliciousness with every delectable bite.

Photo of roasted potatoes from Nadin from Pexels

French Potato Salad

Taste of Home
French potato salad with tarragon is a flavorful and classic dish that combines the creamy goodness of potatoes with the aromatic touch of tarragon.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 6 cups

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb baby red potatoes
  • 1 lb baby yellow potatoes
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp white wine or champagne vinegar
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 shallot (finely chopped)
  • 1 Tbsp each mixed fresh chervil, parsley, and chives
  • 1 tsp minced fresh tarragon

Instructions
 

  • Place potatoes in a large saucepan; add water to cover. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook, uncovered, 10-15 minutes or until tender. With a slotted spoon, remove potatoes to a colander; cool slightly. Return water to a boil. Add garlic; cook, uncovered, 1 minute. Remove garlic and immediately drop into ice water. Drain and pat dry; mince. Reserve 1/4 cup cooking liquid.
  • Cut cooled potatoes into 1/4-inch slices. Transfer potatoes to a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk reserved cooking liquid, oil, vinegar, mustard, minced garlic, salt and pepper until blended. Pour over potato mixture; toss gently to coat. Gently stir in remaining ingredients. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

If you don't have chervil, you may substitute extra parsley and/or tarragon.
This recipe came from the Taste of Home blog.

Quick Collard Greens

Photo of cooked collard greens from RightCowLeftCoast from Wikimedia Commons

Quick collard greens are a flavorful and nutritious side dish that can be prepared in no time. With minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can create a delightful dish that is both tender and packed with flavor. The hearty collard greens are quickly cooked, allowing them to retain their vibrant color and texture. Whether sautéed with garlic and a splash of vinegar or cooked with bacon for added richness, quick collard greens offer a delightful combination of tastes. Embrace the simplicity of preparing this dish and savor its deliciousness as a nutritious addition to your meal.

Photo of cooked collard greens from RightCowLeftCoast from Wikimedia Commons

Quick Collard Greens Recipe

Kate from Cookie and Kate
Quick collard greens are a flavorful and nutritious side dish that can be prepared in no time.
Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 2 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large bunch collard greens (~10 oz)
  • 1.5 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • 2 cloves garlic (pressed or minced)
  • A pinch red pepper flakes (optional, scale back or omit if sensitive to spice)
  • A couple lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • To prepare the collards: Cut out the thick center rib out of each collard green. Stack the rib-less greens and roll them up into a cigar-like shape. Slice over the “cigar” as thinly as possible (⅛″ to ¼″) to make long strands. Shake up the greens and give them a few chops so the strands aren’t so long.
  • Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add all of the collard greens and the salt.
  • Stir until all of the greens are lightly coated in oil, then let them cook for about 30 seconds before stirring again. Continue stirring in 30-second intervals until the greens are wilted, dark green, and some are starting to turn browns on the edges (this is delicious). This will take between 3 to 6 minutes.
  • Once the collards are just about done, add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to break up the garlic and cook until it’s fragrant, about 30 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat.
  • Immediately divide the cooked collards onto plates, and serve with a lemon wedge each.

Notes

This recipe came from the Cookie and Kate blog.

Roasted Cherry Tomato Caprese

Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes from Basotxerri from Wikimedia Commons

Roasted cherry tomato Caprese is a delightful twist on the classic salad, featuring rich flavors from roasted cherry tomatoes. With minimal ingredients, it creates a visually appealing and delicious dish. The combination of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil creates a harmonious summer celebration. Whether as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Embrace simplicity and savor its deliciousness with every bite.

Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes from Basotxerri from Wikimedia Commons

Roasted Cherry Tomato Caprese

Adam Rapoport from Bon Appetit
The combination of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil creates a harmonious summer celebration.
Course Side Dish
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pints cherry tomatoes
  • 4 sprigs thyme
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • 8 oz fresh buffalo or cow mozzarella (about 1 ball) room temperature, torn into large pieces
  • Flaky sea salt
  • Country-style bread, brushed with oil and toasted in oven (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°. Toss tomatoes, thyme, garlic, and oil on a rimmed baking sheet to coat and season lightly with kosher salt. Spread out in a single layer and roast until tomatoes are bursting and lightly browned, 40–45 minutes; let cool.
  • Arrange mozzarella on a platter and spoon warm tomato mixture with juices over; sprinkle with sea salt. Serve with olive-oil-toasted bread for soaking up all those extra juices.

Notes

Do Ahead: Tomatoes can be roasted 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Gently reheat before using.
This recipe came from Adam Rapoport from the Bon Appetit blog.