Currently viewing the tag: "mint"

A variation on the theme of summer squash and mint, this came about on the fly with some of the leftover pesto I had used with halibut the night before. This pesto is great with fish, on sandwiches, and with chicken, and makes a nice pasta, especially with shrimp and lemon added in.

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No meat in this, but the presentation, the thin slices, and the fact that it is raw make the connection in my mind. This is one of those times you want a fixed blade slicer. It can be done with a knife, but it will be a challenge. Cousa and zucchini are ideal for this dish, and Pattypan will work as well, but I think crooknecks are best left for other preparations. This dish lends itself to variations, from really simple to simple but elegant. The dressing can be scattered as separate ingredients or made into a vinaigrette, the garnish can be skipped or be complex-it’s all up to what you want at the time.

 

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Another one from my “You can cook that?!” file. To many, the idea of cooking cucumbers seems radical, but to me it just seemed right. They are, after all, related to squash. Try these when you are looking for something light. They sometimes have a tinge of bitterness to them that makes them a good foil for things like grilled salmon or poached chicken. Accompanying flavors should be things like dill, tarragon, mint, or a little lemon zest. Avoid more pungent herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Marjoram can work if you use a light hand. This recipe is very simple, so it is about timing and balance to show off the cucumber flavor. I have other cucumber recipes that sauté the cucumbers until browned a little with onions and are seasoned more aggressively with garlic and herbs, but I love this one for it’s subtlety and ease.

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This is based on a traditional recipe. Or, not so much a recipe as a technique. “Scapece” is basically fried vegetables that are scattered with herbs and vinegar and allowed time to marinate. Served room temperature or gently reheated, this dish serves as an appetizer or salad, or side dish. Most of the recipes use zucchini, but I have seen it done with carrots, eggplant, and peppers. Typically fried, I have seen a version where everything is grilled and then marinated. Although most recipes use red wine vinegar, I have seen some using balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar. I could see using white balsamic vinegar for a nice light twist. This is another recipe that begs for the use of a fixed blade slicer like the Ben Riner.

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From what I can gather, “Roman Style” here means “with mint”. I love mint, and I love artichokes. So…

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This is a brightly flavored “salad” that tastes fresh and is colorful as well. A little more substantial than a green salad, it works as a side dish on the plate. You could even sauté the carrots lightly in the dressing, tossing the herbs in right at service.

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