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367 North Main Street
Milford Charter Township, MI, 48381

248.684.1373

Acorn Farm opened its doors in downtown Millford in 2008. Since then, we’ve had the pleasure of meeting the most kind, interesting, generous, and downright fun people in the store every single day. Our staff is made up of former customers who became a part of our family so much that we just had to hire them! At Acorn Farm our goal is to not only provide you with high quality goods for your kitchen and home, but to stir up your imagination in the kitchen and around the home. We aim to make every trip to Acorn Farm a pleasant one, and that you’ll always leave encouraged, inspired, and ready to try something new.  

RECIPE ARCHIVE IV

Filtering by Category: SALADS

Peach and Tomato Caprese Salad with Pine Nuts, Prosciutto, and Tarragon Oil

Lia Soneson

We love caprese-style salads, and this version with ripe summer peaches, toasted pine nuts, and salty prosciutto takes a classic dish to new heights. Drizzled with tarragon oil and served with crusty bread and a glass of chilled wine, this salad delightfully celebrates some of the best flavors that summer has to offer!


Peach and Tomato Caprese Salad with Pine Nuts, Prosciutto, and Tarragon Oil
Serves 4 - 6

Ingredients:

1/2 cup (or about 3 large) fresh tarragon sprigs
1/2 cup olive oil
4 heirloom tomatoes, quartered and sliced
3 peaches, pitted and sliced into wedges
1/4 red onion, sliced very thin with a mandoline
1/4 cup pine nuts
8 oz burrata cheese, torn into large pieces
2 oz prosciutto, cut into long strips
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/4 teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes
1/2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 tablespoon honey
1/2 cup fresh basil
Flake salt

Directions:

1. Make the tarragon oil. Prepare a small ice bath and set aside. Bring a small pot of water to boil. Salt the water and blanch the tarragon leaves in the boiling water for 10 seconds (the leaves should turn a brighter shade of green), remove from heat. Use tongs to transfer the tarragon to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Remove from the water. Drain through a fine mesh strainer and pat dry with a paper towel. Combine the tarragon and olive oil in blender and puree. Strain through a fine mesh sieve and discard any solids. Set aside.

2. Prepare the veggies. Quarter and slice the tomatoes using a sharp, serrated knife. Pit and slice peaches into wedges. Thinly slice the red onion with a mandoline.

3. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts, stirring often until lightly browned, 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

4. Tear the burrata into large pieces, and arrange the tomatoes, peaches, red onion, burrata, and prosciutto on a large platter. Sprinkle with Kosher salt, black pepper, and Aleppo pepper.

5. Drizzle evenly with the tarragon oil, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Sprinkle with the toasted pine nuts, basil, and flake salt.

Mango and Kale Salad

Lia Soneson

Juicy mango, crunchy kale, and tropical coconut make for a knock-out combination in this colorful summer salad. Warm notes of curry mixed with fresh and cooling herbs offer a lovely complexity for a hearty meal any time of day.


Mango and Kale Salad
Serves 6-8

Salad Ingredients:

6 cups kale, ribs removed, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded with a mandoline
1 mango, diced
3 green onions, finely chopped
1 red pepper, seeded and diced
15-20 cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup peanuts
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup mint, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Dressing Ingredients:

1/3 cup coconut milk, full fat
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon green Thai curry paste
1-1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 tablespoon brown sugar
1 garlic clove, minced

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the kale, olive oil, and salt. Massage the kale for 1-2 minutes to break down the fibers.

2. Use a mandoline to finely shred the red cabbage. Pit and dice the mango. Chop the green onion. Seed and dice the red pepper, and halve the grape tomatoes.

3. Combine the peanuts and coconut flakes in a small saute pan and toast over the stovetop for roughly 3 minutes, tossing often until both the peanuts and coconut flakes are lightly toasted. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Combine all of the dressing ingredients in a wide-mouthed jar. Whisk or use an immersion blender to incorporate.

5. In a large salad bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients, drizzle with the dressing and toss until coated. Eat immediately!

Strawberry and Arugula Salad with an Herbed Vinaigrette

Lia Soneson

Celebrate summer with juicy, ripe strawberries! This colorful arugula and strawberry salad features many complementary flavors when tossed with our bright and tangy basil-mint dressing. You’ll find that this salad pairs perfectly with a glass of crisp, white wine and a slowly setting sun.


Strawberry and Arugula Salad with an Herbed Vinaigrette
Serves 4

Salad Ingredients:

4 large eggs, boiled and halved
5 oz arugula, rinsed and dried
10-12 strawberries, washed and hulled
1/2 fennel bulb, thinly sliced with a mandoline
2 celery stalks, thinly sliced with a mandoline
1 avocado, pitted and sliced
4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped

Herbed Vinaigrette Ingredients:

1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chiffonade
1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/3 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus lemon zest
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked

Directions:

1. Prepare the Boiled Eggs: Add the eggs to a saucepan and fill the saucepan with water, covering the eggs with about 1-2 inches of water. Bring water to a boil. Once boiling, immediately turn off the heat, cover the pan with a lid, and let sit for 6 minutes for soft eggs, or 10 minutes for hard eggs. Remove immediately from the boiling water and cool by running under cold water for about a minute. Peel and halve the eggs.

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Rinse and dry the arugula. Wash, hull and slice the strawberries. Use a mandoline to thinly slice the fennel and celery. (Use a guard or glove to protect your fingers). Pit and slice the avocado. Crumble the blue cheese.

3. Toast the Almonds:Over medium low heat, toastthe almonds in a small skilletfor 2-3 minutes tossing occasionally until they are fragrant. (Watch closely to avoid burning). Coarsely chop.

4. Prepare the Vinaigrette: Zest and juice the lemon. In a wide-mouth jar, whisk all of the vinaigrette ingredients together until emulsified.

5. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the arugula with 1/2 the vinaigrette until coated. Arrange the remaining salad ingredients on the arugula and drizzle with the rest of the vinaigrette. Add additional salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

Greek Orzo Salad

Lia Soneson

This hearty salad is packed with plenty of goodness! A generous helping of farm-fresh, finely diced veggies along with nutty orzo create a delicious melange of wonderful flavors. Tossed with a lemony-garlic vinaigrette, and topped with fresh herbs and crispy, salty halloumi cheese, this nourishing salad comes together in a snap!


Greek Orzo Salad
Makes 8-10 servings

Salad Ingredients:

1 teaspoon salt
16 oz orzo
16 oz grape tomatoes, halved
1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
1 English cucumber, quartered and diced
3-5 mini red bell peppers, diced
3-5 mini orange bell peppers, diced
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill weed, chopped

Halloumi Ingredients:

8 oz halloumi cheese, drained, and cut into 1/4" slices
1 tablespoon canola oil

Vinaigrette Ingredients:

1 teaspoon dried oregano
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

1. In a large pot, boil water. Once boiling, add salt and the orzo. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente. Drain the orzo with a colander and run it under cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Wash the vegetables, pat dry. Cut the tomatoes and olives into halves. Chop the cucumber, peppers, and onion into a fine dice. Coarsely mince the herbs. Place all in a large bowl.

3. Mix all of the vinaigrette ingredients together in a deep measuring cup, jar, or bowl. Whisk vigorously until well-combined.

4. Dry the halloumi cheese with paper towels. Add the canola oil to a skillet over medium-high heat, and allow to warm until the oil is hot. Pan fry the halloumi, turning with tongsuntil both sides are nicely golden brown -- about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove from the panand cut into 1" pieces.

5. Add the cooked orzo to the vegetables, drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss until the ingredients are well-coated. Add additional salt and pepper to taste. Top the orzo salad with the fried halloumi pieces. Eat immediately.

Roasted Golden Beet Salad with Grapefruit, Pearl Couscous, Mint and a Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette

Lia Soneson

Winter citrus season is upon us! Enjoy sectioned grapefruit in this roasted golden beet salad mixed with pearl couscous, feta, and fresh mint leaves. The sweet-tart, honey-lemon vinaigrette ties all of the bright flavors together perfectly.


Roasted Golden Beet Salad with Grapefruit, Pearl Couscous, Mint and a Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette
Serves 4 - 6 as a side salad

Salad Ingredients:

3 golden beets, peeled and cut into
1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil,
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup pearl couscous
1 tablespoon olive oil (for couscous)
1 grapefruit, peeled and supremed to remove pith
10-20 mint leaves, chopped in strips (or if tiny, leave whole)
4 ounces feta, cubed

Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette Ingredients:

1 zest and juice of one small lemon (about 2 tablespoons of juice)1 tablespoon honey
3 tablespoons olive oil
Kosher salt, to taste
black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Prepare the beets by peeling, then dicing into 1/2-inch cubes. Toss the diced beets with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt, and a healthy grind of pepper. Place the prepared beets in a single layer on a large roasting pan and roast for 15 minutes. Stir and continue roasting the beets for another 10-15 minutes, or until the beets are fork tender.

2. Meanwhile, prepare the couscous. In a small saucepan, coat the pearl couscous in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toast until fragrant, about two minutes. Then cook according to the package's instructions.

3. While the couscous cooks, supreme the grapefruit by cutting away the outer peel of the grapefruit, then cutting each section away from the pith with a sharp paring knife inserted on either side of each section.

4. Dice the feta into 1/2-inch pieces. Chop the mint leaves into thin strips, or leave whole if the leaves are tiny.

5. In a small jar, whisk the vinaigrette ingredients together until combined.

6. Once the beets and couscous are prepared, toss together with the vinaigrette. Carefully mix in the sectioned grapefruit pieces, feta, and garnish with mint.

7. Serve as a side dish with your desired meat or fish dish.

Fall Salad with Bibb Lettuce, Shaved Fennel, Apple, Toasted Pumpkin Seeds, and a Warm Bacon Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Lia Soneson

It’s hard to strike a balance between a heavy winter salad and a light summer salad, but this one lands PERFECTLY in between! The delicate Bibb lettuce is lightly coated in a velvety warm bacon vinaigrette, while bright and crunchy celery, fennel, and apple sweeten while providing bursts of flavor. Topped with toasted pumpkin seeds and shaved Parmesan, it's hearty enough to call a meal, while still leaving room for your favorite fall dessert.


Fall Salad with Bibb Lettuce, Shaved Fennel, Apple, Toasted Pumpkin Seeds, and a Warm Bacon Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Serves 4

Vinaigrette Ingredients:

5 slices thick-cut bacon
2 tablespoons stone ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Salad Ingredients:

2 small heads Bibb lettuce
1 small fennel bulb, stalks and fronds removed
3 stalks celery
1 apple
1/2 cup shaved Parmesan
1/2 cup shelled, raw pumpkin seeds
1 teaspoon crushed fennel seeds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Add the bacon to a large pan over medium heat and cook until crisp. Use tongs to remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess bacon grease. Set aside. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces for topping the salad.

2. Turn the heat to low and add the mustard, thyme, olive oil, brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper to the bacon drippings. Whisk together until incorporated. Add the apple cider vinegar to the pan, continuing to whisk until the vinaigrette has slightly thickened. Let the dressing cool to room temperature.

3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a small bowl, toss the pumpkin seeds in the olive oil, crushed fennel seeds, and salt, and spread the seeds in a single layer on a parchment-lined, rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until toasted and golden. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

4. While the vinaigrette cools, prepare the rest of the salad. Wash the Bibb lettuce and rip it into pieces. Use a mandoline to thinly shave the fennel and the celery. Core and slice the apple.
TIP: Don't forget to use a hand guard when using your mandoline to protect fingers and hands while cutting.

5. Toss all of the salad ingredients together and drizzle with the vinaigrette. Add additional salt and pepper to taste and sprinkle with the toasted pumpkin seeds. Enjoy immediately. TIP: Toss the salad for a solid minute to ensure the vinaigrette is evenly distributed among the ingredients.

Fiesta Chop Salad

Lia Soneson

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This Fiesta Chop Salad is packed with goodies! Start with the fresh crunch of chilly iceberg lettuce, then add cheese, chili beans, red onions, tomatoes, grilled corn, AND corn chips! The creamy, tangy cilantro dressing ties it all together. Enjoy all the fresh, delicious flavors – your taste buds will be doing a happy dance!

Fiesta Chop Salad
Serves 6 - 8

Creamy Cilantro Dressing:
(makes about 1 cup of dressing)
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon dried cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced

Salad Ingredients:
1 head chopped iceberg lettuce
10 oz grape tomatoes, halved
1 can (14 oz) chili beans, slightly drained
4 ears corn, grilled and kernels cut off the cob
Olive oil for brushing corn cobs
1/4 red onion, finely diced
3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups corn chips (like Fritos)

Directions:
1. Make the dressing. Prepare the cilantro by finely mincing for the dressing. Whisk together the vinegar, lime juice, olive oil, Greek yogurt and sugar together in a small jar until well combined. Add the spices and cilantro, and whisk or shake until emulsified.

2. Prep the veggies. Over direct heat, grill the corn (turning as needed) until char marks appear. About 15-20 minutes. Once the grilled corn has cooled slightly, carefully cut the kernels off from the cob with a sharp knife, or a corn stripping tool.

3. Meanwhile, wash and chop the lettuce. Finely dice the red onion and halve the grape tomatoes.

4. Assemble the salad. Toss all of the salad ingredients together with the dressing and then top the salad with the corn chips. Toss once more to incorporate the chips. Serve immediately!

Wilted Spinach Salad

Lia Soneson

Wilted-Spinach-Salad_V2_01.jpg

It's time to enjoy spring greens! Learn how to make the perfect soft-boiled egg and maximize your salad making skills with our take on a classic wilted spinach salad. Jammy eggs, crispy bacon, and wilted spinach come together with creamy goat cheese, crunchy breadcrumbs, and a tangy, fresh, warm dressing. Delicious!

Wilted Spinach Salad with a Perfect Soft-Boiled Egg
Makes 4 salads

Ingredients:
For the Breadcrumbs:

2 tablespoons butter
1 cup hearty (and slightly stale) bread, pulsed into breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad:
1/2 lb. bacon, fried and crumbled
4 eggs, soft-boiled and halved
2 lbs. fresh spinach or baby spinach
1/2 small shallot, thinly sliced
4 oz. goat cheese, crumbled into bite-sized pieces

For the Warm Bacon Dressing:
2 tablespoons reserved bacon fat
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:
1. Prepare the Breadcrumbs: Making your own breadcrumbs is a snap! Toss a few slices of stale bread in a food processor and pulse into a fine texture. Spread the crumbs in a single layer on a sheet pan and and pop into a 300 degree oven for 10 minutes or until lightly toasted. (Watch carefully.) Once cooled, they're ready to use on salads or casseroles.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter and toss with the breadcrumbs. Over medium heat, stir the breadcrumbs often and toast until golden brown. Season with Kosher salt and pepper. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Prepare the Bacon: In the same skillet, fry the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon, and let cool on a paper towel-lined plate. Crumble. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease for the dressing.

4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small saucepan, combine the rendered bacon fat with the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Heat the dressing until just warmed.

5. Prepare the Soft-boiled Eggs: Bring a saucepan filled halfway with water to boil. Add the eggs and boil for exactly six minutes. Remove immediately from the boiling water and cool slightly by running under cold water for about a minute. Peel and halve the eggs. Soft boiled eggs may be made ahead of time and kept in their shells and in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, drop the pre-cooked eggs into boiling water for three minutes. Cool slightly, peel, and serve!

6. Assemble and Serve the Salad: Just before the eggs finish boiling, toss the spinach with the bacon crumbles, shallot, and the warm bacon dressing. Toss with tongs until the spinach begins to wilt slightly. Plate each dish with a serving of wilted spinach, one soft-boiled egg cut in half, a few crumbles of goat cheese, and a generous sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Spring Panzanella

Lia Soneson

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Is it spring yet? Bring it on with our snappy and colorful Spring Panzanella Salad! You’ll find it a satisfying dinner, or a delightful side salad. This healthy salad is packed with spring veggies like roasted asparagus, crunchy snap peas, and super-thin, sliced radishes. Further, this salad experience is elevated with homemade seasoned croutons, creamy goat cheese, a fresh tangy dressing, and tasty garnishes.

Spring Panzanella
Makes 2 large entrée salads, or 4 side salads

Crouton Ingredients:
2-3 cups cubed of rustic loaf of bread, cut into 1-1/2” cubes
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried Herbes de Provence seasoning
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Salad Ingredients:
3-4 cups baby arugula
1 cup snap peas, sliced on the big angle
1/2 bunch asparagus, sliced into 1 inch pieces (tossed with olive oil, Kosher salt, pepper) 4 oz goat cheese, bite sized pieces
4 radishes, thinly sliced with mandoline

Vinaigrette Ingredients:
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (zest, and then juice)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence
1 teaspoon shallot, minced
1 teaspoon honey

Garnish Ingredients:
lemon zest of 1 lemon
10 mint leaves, cut into a chiffonade

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Slice the asparagus into 1” pieces. Toss with one tablespoon of olive oil and salt and pepper. Roast the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet for 5 minutes, or until just crisp tender.

2. Prepare the cubed bread into semi-soft croutons. Melt the butter in a large skillet and mix with the olive oil. Toss the cubed bread in the skillet until evenly coated. Sprinkle with the Herbs de Provence, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir the croutons while heating until they are lightly toasted on all sides.

3. Meanwhile, prepare the snap peas by washing and cutting on a dramatic angle to reveal the peas inside.

4. Prepare the radishes by washing and cutting thin slices with a mandoline. Take care! Mandolines are super sharp, amazing tools that should be respected. We recommend to gear up for safety and use a protective glove AND the hand guard. The thin slices are so worth it!

5. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together all of the vinaigrette ingredients until emulsified.

6. Mix the salad together in a large bowl. Toss the arugula, sliced radishes, and asparagus with the dressing until coated.

7. Carefully layer in the snap peas and croutons. Top with bite-sized pieces of goat cheese and garnish with lemon zest and fresh mint.

Winter Bowls

Lia Soneson

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The season for healthier dinners has arrived! Each January inspires a renewed energy and recommitment to healthier habits. Winter grain bowls are a delicious way to achieve those goals! This tasty bowl features baked tofu with quinoa, roasted beets, and arugula all dressed with a flavorful turmeric tahini dressing.

Winter Grain Power Bowls
Makes 4 large bowls

Winter Grain Bowl Ingredients:
1 block extra firm tofu 1 large purple beet (or two small beets), peeled & diced into 1/2" cubes
1 large golden beet (or two small beets), peeled & diced into 1/2" cubes
1 fennel bulb, stalks removed, cored, and thinly shaved
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon pepper, divided
1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable stock
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 red onion, thinly sliced with a mandoline
1 large carrot, shaved and rolled
4 cups arugula
1/3 cup shelled pistachios
Fresh mint leaves, torn for garnish

Turmeric Tahini Dressing Ingredients:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup tahini
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
2 tablespoons water (as needed, to thin)
1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 clove garlic, minced

Directions:
1. Prepare the tofu by slicing it into 1" thick slices. Lay the slices on a paper towel-lined baking sheet, then cover the tofu with another layer of paper towels. Place a cutting board on top of the covered slices to press out the excess water from the tofu. (Place a cookbook or a heavy pot on top of the cutting board to help apply weight and pressure so that extra water is forced out of the tofu. This pressing and draining step will help the tofu achieve a better texture when baking.) Press and drain the tofu slices for about 20-30 minutes.

2. Preheat the oven to 400°F. In two separate bowls, prepare the beets and fennel. Toss the diced beets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Toss the shaved fennel with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Place the prepared beets and fennel in a large roasting pan and roast for 15 minutes or until the fennel starts to turn golden brown. Remove the fennel and continue roasting the beets for another 15 minutes, or until the beets are fork tender.

3. Meanwhile, prepare the quinoa on the stovetop using a 2:1 liquid-to-grain ratio. Bring the vegetable stock to a boil and add the quinoa. Stir, cover, and turn down the heat to low. Check after 15 minutes to see if the quinoa is tender, or if more liquid is needed to finish cooking. The small kernels expand as they soak up the cooking liquid. When tender and ready, you’ll see a tiny curlicue emerge; this is the beginning of a quinoa sprout, (and a sign of doneness.) Remove from the heat when done.

4. After the tofu has drained, remove the weights and paper towels and cut the tofu slices into 1" cubes. Gently toss the tofu cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until evenly coated. Spread the tofu cubes across a lined baking sheet and bake in the oven at 400°F for 30 minutes. Half way through baking, turn the tofu pieces. Bake until the tofu is baked and crisped on all sides.

5. Prepare the turmeric tahini dressing by whisking all of ingredients together until the dressing is combined.

6. Thinly slice the red onion using a mandoline. Shave the carrot into ribbons using a vegetable peeler. Tear the mint leaves for a garnish.

7. Once all of the ingredients are prepared, assemble the bowls. Add a scoop of cooked quinoa to each bowl, then add the roasted beets, roasted fennel, and baked tofu. Continue building the bowl by adding a few slices of red onion, a few ribbons of carrot, and a handful of arugula. Drizzle the bowl with the dressing and then garnish with pistachios and fresh mint leaves.

Apple, Pomegranate, Kale Salad

Lia Soneson

Did someone say warm, fall salad? Yes, please! In this recipe, we highlight delicious fall produce like crunchy apples, hearty kale, and tart pomegranates. Paired with earthy Gorgonzola, and tangy dried apricots, this beauty is topped with sweet and spicy pecans -- a garnish so good you’ll need to make a double batch!

Apple, Pomegranate, Kale Salad
Serves 6–8

Salad Ingredients:
2 bunches Lacinato kale leaves, torn into pieces
1 bunch green kale, torn into pieces
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
3/4 cup pomegranate arils (or 1 pomegranate)
1 Honeycrisp apple, cored and thinly sliced
1 Granny Smith apple, cored and thinly sliced
1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
10 dried apricots, sliced

Sweet and Spicy Pecans:
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1 cup unsalted pecan halves

Dressing Ingredients:
1/3 cup olive oil
1 shallot, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 tablespoon maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 275°F. Combine the butter, cayenne, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the pecans and toss to coat. Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the nuts are browned. Remove from heat and let cool. (Store any leftover pecans in a dry, airtight container for up to 2 weeks.)

2. Meanwhile, add the kale to a large salad bowl. Sprinkle with the salt and olive oil and massage with your hands for 2-3 minutes until the kale pieces start to become tender.

3. Make the dressing by heating the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Remove from heat.

4. Whisk together the remaining dressing ingredients. Pour in the olive oil and shallot into the dressing and stir.

5. Drizzle half of the the dressing on the kale and use tongs to toss. Arrange the pomegranate arils, apples, Gorgonzola cheese, and dried apricots on top of the salad. Drizzle the salad with the remaining dressing and top with the sweet and spicy pecans. Serve immediately.

Fall Panzanella with Butternut Squash

Lia Soneson

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Butternut squash is a fall favorite, and for good reason! This sweet, nutty vegetable is the perfect way to honor the changing of seasons. IN THIS ISSUE we slowly roast the squash until its edges crisp and caramelize, while the center remains soft and sweet. Paired with tart goat cheese, juicy raisins, and homemade croutons, this autumn version of a panzanella salad is dinner done well.

Panzanella Salad with Butternut Squash
Serves 6 - 8

Butternut squash is a fall favorite, and for good reason! This sweet, nutty vegetable is the perfect way to honor the changing of seasons. We slowly roast the squash until its edges crisp and caramelize, while the center remains soft and sweet. Paired with tart goat cheese, juicy raisins, and homemade croutons, this autumn version of a panzanella salad is dinner done well.

Ingredients:
1 small butternut squash
1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds or 1/2 cup pepitas
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 bunches kale
2 tablespoons butter
3/4 tablespoon Za’taar
1 French loaf, cut into 1” cubes
3 oz arugula
2 tablespoons raisins
4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Additional salt and pepper to taste

Dressing:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon honey
1 tablespoon tahini

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Wrangle the butternut squash by peeling, seeding and slicing it into 1” wedges. In a large bowl, toss the squash pieces with the raw pumpkin seeds, olive oil, cayenne, salt and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly on a roasting dish and roast for 40-45 minutes, turning the squash and seeds every 10 minutes until the squash is golden and tender. (If using pepitas, add to the roaster for just the last 5 minutes.) Remove from the oven.

2. Meanwhile, massage the kale in 1 tablespoon olive oil for about 2 minutes. Whisk together the dressing ingredients until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Add half of the dressing to the kale, toss until the leaves are well-coated.

3. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and stir in the Za’taar seasoning. Add the cubes of bread and toss until croutons are evenly coated. Continue sautéing over medium heat until the croutons are golden and crispy.

4. Add the arugula to the kale, and top with the roasted butternut squash, pumpkin seeds, croutons, raisins, red onion, and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with the remaining dressing and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy immediately.

Summer’s End Dinner

Lia Soneson

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Summer’s end is nearly here – time to plan one last hurrah on the back patio! IN THIS ISSUE, we’ve planned a perfect end-of-summer dinner menu with Orange & Thyme Pork Tenderloin, an Arugula, Heirloom Tomato & Whipped Ricotta Salad, Grilled Carrots with Minted Yogurt Sauce, and a refreshing Blackberry & Lemon Iced Tea. Cheers to this (Unusual) Summer! 

Blackberry & Lemon Iced Tea
Makes 8 cups iced tea

Nothing says summer like iced tea. We’ve decided to spruce up this favorite by adding fresh blackberries and slices of lemon to the tea we love so much. A great accompaniment to any al fresco meal.

Ingredients:
2 cups fresh blackberries, divided
1/4 cup sugar
8 cups water, divided
8 black tea bags
1 lemon, sliced

Directions:
1. Mash or puree 1 cup of blackberries with 1/4 cup sugar.

2. Bring 5 cups of water to a boil. Add the tea bags to the hot water and steep for 6-8 minutes, then remove the tea bags.

3. Pour the hot tea over the blackberry mixture and let sit for 1 hour. Then, strain through a fine mesh sieve.

4. Add 3 cups of cold water and taste the tea. Adjust the sweetness to your preference, then refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight. 5.

Serve on ice with a garnish of lemon wedges and remaining cup of whole blackberries.

6. Optionally, add a float of bourbon on top before serving.

Arugula, Heirloom Tomato & Whipped Ricotta Salad
Serves 4 - 6

Whipped ricotta turns this salad into a creamy, dreamy delight! Spicy arugula complements the lemon-y, smooth whipped ricotta and the ripe grape tomatoes punctuate each bite with bursts of brightness. Salad

Ingredients:
15 oz fresh ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
6 oz arugula
Heirloom cherry tomatoes
Basil, chiffonade cut for garnishing

Vinaigrette Ingredients:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
Juice of half a lemon
Salt and pepper

Directions:
1. In a food processor or high-powered blender, whip the ricotta with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until very smooth.

2. Whisk the vinaigrette ingredients together in a small jar.

3. Toss the arugula with the vinaigrette. Spread the ricotta on a large serving plate.

4. Top the ricotta layer with arugula, heirloom cherry tomatoes, and a garnish of basil.

Grilled Carrots with Minted Yogurt Sauce
Serves 4 - 6

Carrots are transformed on the grill! With some simple seasonings and the utility of a grill basket, simple carrots become elevated into a flavorful, sweet, and savory side! Dressed up with an easy za’atar yogurt sauce, this side dish is worthy of repeating often.

Ingredients:
10 carrots, or about 2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into 3” matchsticks
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 tablespoon sugar

Yogurt Sauce:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or about half of a small lemon)
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Za’atar spice blend

Garnish:
Fresh cilantro leaves, coarsely chopped

Directions:
1. Peel the carrots, and cut into 3” long matchsticks.

2. Prepare the carrots for grilling: Place the carrots in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss Sprinkle with garlic powder, Kosher salt, pepper, and sugar.

3. Grill the carrots in a grill basket over high heat until slightly blistered, a little charred, and just tender, stirring often.

4. While the carrots are grilling, prepare the yogurt sauce by whisking all of the yogurt sauce ingredients together. 5. Serve the grilled carrots with a drizzle of yogurt sauce, and a generous garnish of fresh cilantro.

Orange & Thyme Pork Tenderloin
Serves 4 - 6

Pork tenderloins are perfectly primed for adapting to flavorful marinades. This marinade features fresh orange juice, thyme leaves and a few other classic marinade flavormakers like Dijon mustard, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder. It’s an easy and delicious recipe!

Ingredients:
2 pork tenderloins

Marinade:
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
4 sprigs of thyme, leaves only

Directions:
1. Prepare the marinade in a medium bowl by whisking all of the ingredients together.

2. Add the pork tenderloins to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least one hour for the flavors to infuse into the meat.

3. Fire up the grill! Let the marinated tenderloins warm to room temperature for 20 minutes before grilling. Place the marinated tenderloins on the hot, well-oiled grill, and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side. Turn until all sides have seared and browned, and then, turn o one burner (or turn to low) to create a direct/indirect environment. Place the seared tenderloins on the cooler, indirect side, and continue to cook until their internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F.

4. Once the pork tenderloins reach 145 degrees F, place on a clean plate, and cover loosely with a tinfoil "tent" for about 10 minutes. This allows the meat to rest, and the juices to soak back into the meat. 5. Slice the grilled tenderloins, and serve warm.

Try Our Grilled Corn and Quinoa Summer Salad

Lia Soneson

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Two grains, corn and quinoa, share an ancient history as important crops in the developing Americas. IN THIS ISSUE, we’ve made them the cornerstone of a salad that’s hearty, and nutritionally balanced enough to be the main entrée. Grilled sweet corn only gets tastier with the addition of healthy quinoa, summer-ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a bright lemony vinaigrette.

Tips for Making Better Salads, PLUS, 3 Entree-Worthy Salads

Lia Soneson

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With summertime local produce thriving, it’s time to put entrée salads in the starring role on the dinner table. IN THIS ISSUE, we present three hearty salads, each with a dazzling burst of flavors. We’re sharing our favorite tips for summer grilling, how to make mango rosettes, and easy basics to follow when composing homemade salad dressings! It’s time to revel in the season of ripe produce — choose to serve a satisfying salad for dinner.

We Can Still Grill, Right? Brats and Amazing Sides

Lia Soneson

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We’re all bonding with our homes more these days! Mix up mealtime with a “picnic” on the patio, deck, or even driveway! And, there’s no time like the present to get some summer grilling underway! 

IN THIS ISSUE, we’ve assembled a delicious menu for an at-home outdoor dinner: beer-boiled then grilled brats, zipped-up baked beans, and a grilled potato salad ready to elevate the moment!

A Good Time to Have Brunch In!

Lia Soneson

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There is no better time than the present to brunch . . . IN! If breakfast is the most important meal of the day, brunch is the most fun! Brunch implies a leisurely sort of day — where our schedules are less relentless and time together is well spent. Whether you spend it with family or a few good friends, we've composed a foolproof menu worth celebrating.

IN THIS ISSUE, we feature a Caramelized Onion, Mushroom, and Parmesan Quiche, Macerated Citrus Salad, and a side of Orange Poppyseed Bread.

A Festive Holiday Dinner Menu!

Lia Soneson

 
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THE HOLIDAY SEASON CALLS FOR MANY GATHERINGS OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS AROUND DELICIOUS FOOD. IN THIS ISSUE, we feature four recipes that make a perfect menu for a special, festive gathering. The meal begins with a Roasted Beet Salad, showcases two stunning side dishes, Haricots Verts with Tarragon Butter, and Golden Melting Potato Medallions, and features a perfectly roasted Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Shallot Sauce as the entree. Happy Holidays to You and Yours!

 

Entree-Worthy Summer Salads

Lia Soneson

3 Entree-Worthy Summer Salads for You to Enjoy!
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