Baked Salmon with Herb Butter

Otherwise known as "Salmon for people who say they don't like Salmon." I was one of them, until I tried this dish about a year ago (courtesy of my mother) and totally changed my mind. This salmon is first seared in a pan, then finished in the oven - my favorite technique for fish. This gives it a nice crispy coating on the outside, while keeping the fish moist and delicious on the inside. The flavors are simple, as are ingredients (we are talking butter and herbs, people) and the combination is perfection. Plus, you can pat yourself on the back for getting in your superfood of the day (well done you)

Summer Peach "Caprese" Salad with Balsamic Reduction

I know, I know - its a little early for peaches. But I just couldn't help myself. Maybe its a southern thing. This traditionally Italian salad gets a little sweeter swapping tomatoes for peaches, and it will be even better if you are patient (unlike some of us) and wait a month or so to make it when peaches are in their prime. I made this on a small scale, but it would be gorgeous layered on a large platter for a big summer dinner party. Enjoy!

LPQ Quinoa Salad

I have gotten into the (really bad) habit of ordering this (really good) organic quinoa salad from the Le Pain Quotidien restaurant near my office a few times a week. Its fabulous and filling - the perfect lunch. But it also sets me back $13.00 every time. I decided one monday afternoon, after a particularly large (read: expensive) weekend that it was time for me to figure out how to create this Le Pain Quotidien concoction myself.
And I did.
And it was embarrassingly easy and gloriously cheap.
Its best served cold on a bed of greens. Enjoy!

Spring Spinach Salad with Pesto

According to my calendar, Spring has sprung! However, a quick glance outside my window proves otherwise - rainy and cold in the middle of May :( After the winter we've had, you would think we New Yorkers might catch a break - we certainly deserve one (I'm looking at you, Jet Stream) Despite the chilly temps, I decided it was time to bust out the spring-iest recipe I could find. Enter this delicious Spinach salad: Chock full of fresh green veggies and dressed with pesto. It may not feel like Spring outside, but your mouth will most certainly be fooled.

Cous Cous Salad with Zucchini and Roasted Almonds

It happens nearly every Sunday: Whether I have been away for the weekend or home all along, my refrigerator is invariably empty, save for a few stray yogurts and a sad tub of hummus. When 4:00 rolls around, I am bored, starving and about two minutes from ordering greasy take-out that I know I will regret later. But THIS Sunday, I arrived home to an empty fridge AND a mailbox full - with the new May issue of Food + Wine!

Ah ha! Instant inspiration. I found this easy cous-cous salad recipe in the opening pages and couldn't resist. Super fresh, full of veggies and its good hot or cold, so you can enjoy it for lunch for days to come.

Simple Stuffed Mushrooms

Who says you can only enjoy stuffed mushrooms at weddings? These are perfect (and deceptively simple) appetizers suitable for any occasion ( I made them on a whim for a last minute get-together with girlfriends and they were a hit)
I adapted this recipe from Ina Garten's sausage-stuffed mushrooms - she used fresh Italian sausage and very expensive cheeses in her filling (of course she did; she's Ina) - so consider these the meat-free, low budget alternative to the real deal. But, your guests don't need to know that...
Enjoy!