Vegetarian Chili

I've got a whole arsenal of go-to weeknight meals, but the one heaviest in my rotation is vegetarian chili. Why, you might ask? Because meatless chili has true versatility. Not only is it quick, effortless, and healthy, but it's easy to transport as lunch the next day.

As a leftover, it tastes better the longer it sits. I don't get sick of it, not even in the Summer. I don't mind it chilled, or heaped atop concession-stand favorites like cheese fries and onion rings.

Recently, I served it on two separate occasions. To keep things interesting, I paired it once with Fritos and melted cheese to make that Lone Star favorite, Frito pie — then on the second occasion, atop a bed of pasta, quasi-Cincinnati-style. Make this the most adaptable dish in your recipe reserve when you keep reading.

If you were disappointed there was no bean-based dish in my roundup of vegetarian entrees, I've got an awesome recipe for you: lentil chili. It's hearty, slightly spicy, and absolutely delicious. The best thing about this meat-free chili is that it's healthy, so you feel good eating it. It has the warm, comforting qualities of a classic chili, but without all the extra fat. It takes a little more than an hour to make, but this satisfying one-pot dish is worth the wait. While the chili cooks, it fills your house with the most enticing aroma! Serve with a citrus salad and toasted bread. To make the chili this weekend, keep reading.

From 2003 to 2006, every October I hosted an annual pumpkin carving party. In 2007, I threw a huge Halloween bash, and last year, I didn't do anything!

Now, I've decided it's time to bring back my beloved pumpkin carving dinner. I supply the pumpkins and a hearty Fall dinner and ask everyone to bring a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer. Since the party is all about creating interesting pumpkin designs, I like to serve a menu that guests can enjoy at their leisure.

For starters, I'll offer an orange and black cheese ball and spicy sausages wrapped in pizza dough.

A huge pot of vegetarian chili will bubble on the stove, and in between carving pumpkins, guests can grab a bowl and top it with an assortment of items like cilantro, avocado, and sour cream. A side of jalapeño cornbread muffins are ideal for dipping. To look at these recipes, read more