Recently, we had the chance to break bread with Chef Joanne Weir, from Joanne Weir's Cooking Class, and talk all about Mediterranean ingredients and cooking styles. One of the dishes that she taught us how to make was a Spanish coca, or pizza. The toppings were simple but satisfying: wilted chard with sweet raisins and walnuts. The result was light and satisfying, with a great combination of Read more

Creamy wintry soup can have a lot of calories, but reader JuicyNoelle slashes the fat by using cauliflower puree instead of cream in her recipe for Swiss chard soup, which she posted in our Healthy Recipe group. I love thick and creamy vegetable soups. But I don’t always love the calories. So this week I decided to substitute heavy cream with a smooth cauliflower puree instead. If you are Read more

A confession: after an entire season of eating Summer salads, lettuce leaves are feeling a bit tired and passé. So lately, I've been utilizing a bevy of nutrient-rich Winter greens instead. Inspired by the raw and sweet crunch of a brussels sprouts and kale dish, I tossed together medley of red swiss chard, young kale, toasted hazelnuts, and jewel-like pomegranate seeds. With a natural sweetness Read more

What is it about baked pastas that's so wildly comforting? Could it be their starchy goodness? Cheesy topping? Hearty filling? It's probably a combination of all these factors that makes a dish, like this spicy baked penne with sausage and chard, a winner. It can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving, thus it's an ideal dish for entertaining. An item like this is also great after Read more

When I read that yesterday was National Empanada Day, I had a craving so intense for the flaky, savory pastries that I went home and made some! While I enjoy the thick, Spanish pie-shaped empanada, I much prefer the mini, handheld Argentinean variation. They are bite-sized, fun to eat, and can be filled with just about anything. Years ago I spent a month testing out empanada dough recipes until Read more

As the weather turns cooler, I like adding spice to my meals. Nothing warms me up like a little curry. Last night I cooked up some red Swiss chard with some garam masala and tofu. Chard is one of my favorite leafy greens, which is why it's one of my must haves for October. This Indian-spiced chard makes a great main dish, or leave out the tofu for a side dish. I served it with toasted whole Read more