mustard greens

If you've never tasted mustard greens, then it's time to get acquainted with this tasty, peppery vegetable. First discovered in the Himalayas in India, mustard greens have become an integral part of cuisine in Asian countries like Nepal, India, Japan, and China, but they're also a staple in some parts of the US! They're typically associated with the tasty, old-school favorites of the Deep South, but they're a delicious and healthy option for kitchens all over the country, since they're easy to grow and even easier to prepare.

Whether you're going to enjoy them raw or cooked, when choosing mustard greens, the rule of thumb is to make sure to look for pretty green leaves without yellow spots or browned edges. Once you bring them home, put them in a fresh plastic bag, and remove as much of the air from the bag as possible. Keep them stored in the refrigerator, but be sure to enjoy the greens within three to four days for optimal texture and flavor.

Want to go beyond the basics and get some inspiration for how to use mustard greens now? Keep reading for a few fun mustard green recipes.

For some reason, I only make frittatas for special occasions, like a holiday brunch or a bridal shower lunch. I've got to get more into them (and so should you) because they are absolutely delicious and very versatile. A frittata can be consumed at breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and can be filled with tons of ingredients. This recipe uses mustard greens, onions, and parmesan cheese. The flavorful combination of bitter greens and sweet onions work sublimely here. Instead of cooking it over the stove, I poured the egg mixture into a nine-by-13-inch pan that was lined with parchment paper; then I baked the whole thing in the oven like a crustless quiche. It was easier to slice into bite-sized portions and serve on toothpicks. However, if it was on the menu at a leisurely brunch, it would be fun to bring the saute pan to the table and let guests slice their own piece. This frittata would pair well with smoked salmon, roasted cherry tomatoes, or sparkling wine. To add a great frittata recipe to your rotation, keep reading.

I'm of Irish descent, and St. Patrick's Day is one of my favorite holidays. Every March I do something different: last year I hosted a cocktail party with green appetizers; in 2008, I helped cook Irish-inspired snacks; and in 2007 I threw a special dinner with blarney stone cottage pie. This weekend, I'm putting together an early lunch with friends and family.

We'll be going to the parade in downtown San Francisco, but before, we'll meet at Danny Coyle's, an Irish pub on Haight Street that lets patrons bring in their own food. I'm serving a simple, festive, and portable menu of mustard green and sweet onion frittata bites and smoked salmon sandwiches.

The sandwiches are served on homemade biscuits, and although the recipe calls for parmesan cheese, I'll substitute a good Irish cheddar. Interested in the recipes? Read more.

When cooking quick and uncomplicated meals, don't be afraid to take some help from store-made sauces, condiments, and jams. This recipe is packed with exotic and spicy flavor thanks to a purchased hot mango chutney. The chutney is jazzed up with sautéed onions and peppers before being brushed onto triangles of tofu. Steamed mustard greens act as a bed for the tofu and veggies, but other greens like broccoli rabe or collard greens would work.

To serve this vegetarian dinner, get the recipe now.