red onion

Before you shun certain fruits and vegetables for life, sample them at their peak and see if you feel the same way. Although I grew up swearing off tomatoes, all it took was a locally grown heirloom variety, plucked from the vine that very Summer morning, that convinced me that I did enjoy fresh tomatoes.

Sworn foes of the pea, I challenge you to do the same. Don't like the overly sweet, baby food-like consistency of frozen peas? You're allowed to write them off altogether — but only after you've tried a bowl of in-season, freshly shelled peas and are certain you can't appreciate the toothsome snap that comes with every bite.

Shell sweet, delicate English peas and toss them lightly with a bit of olive oil, vinegar, onion, and torn mint for a classic preparation. See if you'll become an unexpected convert when you read more.

When one thinks of the grill, proteins normally come to mind. However, I like to use the smoky barbecue to impart rich flavor on everything from vegetables to cheese to fruit. By placing circles of red onions and wedges of fresh peaches onto the grates, this recipe does just that. These charred and caramelized elements are tossed with crisp greens to create a salad that's scrumptious served with grilled chicken. Since salt and pepper are the only ingredients used to season the chicken, be sure to sprinkle liberally. Enjoy this uncomplicated meal on the back porch with a glass of white wine. Sound good? Here's the recipe.

When making a salad that is to be the main course of a meal, I like to take the time to ensure that the salad is really special. The more fresh flavors and interesting textures it has, the more satisfying the salad will be. This recipe guarantees a hearty and memorable dinner salad. It combines sweet and crunchy candied walnuts with crisp fennel, juicy tangerine segments, and salty olives. A bright apple cider vinaigrette coats the greens and veggies. If you enjoy cheese in salads, toss in some crumbled goat cheese. Learn how to assemble this simple but stunning salad after the break.

If you've got the mid-week blues, why not cheer yourself up by making a crisp and cheesy pizza for dinner? Taking some time out of the day to put together a meal is a great way to unwind, and this recipe is straightforward and effortless.

All you have to do is crumble and cook a couple of links of Italian sausage. Combine this with sautéed arugula, red onion, and red pepper, and throw the mixture on a pizza dough slathered with ricotta cheese and bake. In just eight short minutes you'll be enjoying a piping hot, comforting slice of pizza. Get the method when you read more

When it comes to panzanella — the classic Italian bread salad with tomatoes — I love every variation. While I've made it with heirloom tomatoes and arugula, I've never had the filling warm-weather dish with tuna and white beans.

But thanks to this recipe, I plan on doing so tonight! What's not to love about chunky tuna, crispy oil-saturated bread, and tangy pickles? The cannellini beans ensure that this salad is hearty enough to stand alone.

Check out the recipe when you read more