Look for thick asparagus, which are easier to grill (less worry that they'll burn or slide through the grill grates) and have a meatier texture than the slender stalks.
"Brunches are a big hit in our family. They think this recipe makes the best waffles of all and it is easily doubled or tripled. I sprinkle blueberries or pecans on top of the batter for those who want them just before closing the waffle iron --- it's definitely my favorite way to have them. Plus, you can make the batter the night before!"
"Radishes are quickly cooked with garlic, onion, and thyme in this interesting side dish."
"This tasty tuna marinade makes a good thing even better. Soy sauce, fresh ginger, rice wine, garlic, and oil are poured over fresh tuna steaks and left to marinate briefly in the fridge."
The easiest way to crack the coriander seeds is to put them in a heavy-duty plastic bag and pass over them with a rolling pin. For a great sandwich, split a biscuit and fill it with sliced ham or smoked salmon.
"This recipe calls for broccoli, snow peas, carrots, and green beans, but you can use any of your favorites. The vegetables are stir fried with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Serve over your favorite rice."
Saffron gives the couscous a gorgeous yellow color.
Note that this recipe calls for starting the potatoes in a cold oven. Choose potatoes that are as even in width as possible; trimming the small ends prevents them from burning. If you prefer not to peel the potatoes, just scrub them well before cutting.
Homemade stock will make any risotto fabulous. Here, the delicate, springlike combination of leeks and peas is given texture and heft with the addition of calamari, turning it into a main course.
"Buttermilk and vanilla make for two moist, well-flavored loaves."