Showing posts with label Squash. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Squash. Show all posts

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Charred Corn and Zucchini with Basil

Charring the vegetables gives them a smoky richness and makes for mostly hands-off cooking. Put everything in the skillet and let high heat do the rest.
  • 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from 3 to 4 medium ears)
  • 3/4 cup halved and thinly sliced zucchini
  • 1/4 cup small-diced red onion
  • Kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil

Heat 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the corn, zucchini, onion, and 1/2 tsp. salt; stir to combine. Cook, stirring only once or twice, until the corn is lightly charred, about 4 minutes. Stir in the basil and serve.

Butternut Squash with Spinach, Raisins, and Pine Nuts

Elegant yet comforting, this side dish has layers of flavor thanks to the earthy-sweet squash and raisins, the fresh spinach, and the rich salty toasty top notes from the cheese and nuts.
  • 2 Tbs. unsalted butter
  • 1 small lemon, finely grated to yield 1/2 tsp. zest and squeezed to yield 2 tsp. juice
  • 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1-3/4 lb. butternut squash, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch dice (about 4 cups)
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 medium yellow onion, cut into 1/2-inch dice
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 5 oz. mature spinach leaves, thick stems removed (about 5 packed cups)
  • 1 oz. coarsely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (about 1/4 cup)
  • 2 Tbs. toasted pine nuts

Melt the butter in a small skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, swirling occasionally, until the milk solids turn light brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat, add the lemon zest and juice, and swirl to combine.

Heat the oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the squash and 1/2 tsp. salt; toss well to coat.

Cover the pan with the lid ajar by about 1 inch. Turn the heat down to medium low and cook, gently stirring occasionally, until the squash begins to brown, 5 to 6 minutes. As the mixture cooks, you should hear a gentle sizzle.

Turn the heat down to low, add the onions and raisins and cook, stirring occasionally and then gently pushing the vegetables back into a single layer so that most have direct contact with the pan, until the vegetables are tender and browned, 12 to 15 minutes more.

Add the spinach and lemon butter and toss gently until the spinach is wilted, about 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the cheese and pine nuts. Season to taste with salt. Serve right away or let sit off the heat, partially covered, until ready to serve, and then reheat gently over medium-low heat.

Indian Summer Gratin with Butternut Squash, Potatoes, Corn, and Bacon

You can make this a day ahead, if you like; the flavors will develop even more overnight. Reheat at 375°F, covered, for 20 minutes.
  • 1 Tbs. plus 1/2 tsp. unsalted butter
  • 4 slices bacon
  • 1-1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 Tbs. finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • 1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1-1/2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 large or 2 medium leeks (white and light-green parts only), halved and sliced 1/4 inch thick
  • 2 tsp. minced fresh garlic
  • 1-3/4 to 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from 3 to 4 large ears)
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup lower-salt chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
  • 12 oz. peeled, seeded butternut squash, cut into 1/2-inch dice (about 2-1/2 cups)
  • 8 oz. Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1/3-inch dice (about 1-1/2 cups)

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 400°F. Rub a 2-quart shallow gratin dish with 1/2 tsp. of the butter.


In a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, about 8 minutes. Transfer the bacon to paper towels. Reserve 2 Tbs. of the fat in the skillet; discard the remainder. When the bacon is cool, crumble or mince it.


In a small bowl, combine 1 Tbs. of the crumbled bacon with the breadcrumbs, 2 Tbs. of the Parmigiano, the olive oil, 1/2 tsp. of the thyme, and a large pinch of salt. Mix well.


Add the remaining 1 Tbs. butter to the skillet with the bacon fat and melt over medium heat. Add the leeks and a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring, until softened and just starting to turn golden, 6 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic and stir well. Add the corn, 1/4 tsp. salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Cook, stirring, until the corn has lost its raw look and is slightly shrunken, 2 to 3 minutes. Cool slightly.


Combine the cream and chicken broth in a 2-cup liquid measure. Add the lemon zest, 1/2 tsp. salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Stir to mix well.


In a large bowl, combine the remaining bacon, the corn-leek mixture, the diced squash, potatoes, and remaining 1 tsp. thyme. Toss lightly to combine. Spread the mixture evenly in the gratin dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup Parmigiano on top. Stir the cream mixture one more time and pour it over everything as evenly as possible. (Be sure to scrape out any seasonings left in the cup.) Press down on the vegetables with a spatula so that the liquid surrounds them and everything is evenly distributed. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over all.


Cover with foil and bake for 20?minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake until the crumb topping is deeply golden and the squash and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 25 minutes. The liquid should have bubbled below the surface of the vegetables, leaving browned bits around the edge of the pan. Let cool for 20 to 25 minutes before serving.

Zucchini Casino

In this creative spin on clams casino, zucchini coins stand in for the bivalves.
  • 1/3 cup coarse fresh breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 oz. finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (1/3 cup using rasp grater)
  • 1 Tbs. minced shallot
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 small zucchini
  • 2 slices bacon

Position a rack 6 inches from the broiler element and heat the broiler on high. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmigiano-Reggiano, shallot, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1 Tbs. water.

Slice the zucchini crosswise into fifteen 1/4-inch-thick rounds and arrange in a single layer on a small rimmed baking sheet. Using your fingers, mound the breadcrumb mixture on the zucchini rounds, firmly pinching the mixture so it holds together.

Cut the bacon crosswise into fifteen 1-inch pieces and place on top of the breadcrumbs. Broil until the bacon and some of the exposed breadcrumbs are browned and crisp, about 3 minutes. Serve hot.

Grilled Zucchini with Chive Oil

The subtle, nutty flavor of walnut oil complements the chives and zucchini, but you can substitute a mild-flavored oil, such as safflower, canola, or plain (not extra-virgin) olive oil. Refrigerate leftover infused oil for up to 3 days. Use in pasta salads or drizzle over eggs, grilled fish, or just about any meat, especially lamb.
  • 3/4 oz. chives, thinly sliced (about 6 Tbs.)
  • 1/3 cup plus 2 Tbs. walnut oil
  • 1 lb. small zucchini (3 to 4), cut on a sharp angle into 1/2-inch-thick ovals
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Put all but 1 Tbs. of the chives in a blender. Begin to blend while slowly pouring 1/3 cup of the walnut oil through the feed hole of the blender lid. Continue to blend for 1 minute. Stop to scrape down the sides of the blender with a rubber spatula. Blend for another minute. Set aside for 30 minutes to 1 hour to let the flavors infuse.


Strain the oil through a fine sieve into a bowl, pressing the puréed chives with a rubber spatula or the back of a spoon to extract any remaining oil.


Prepare a medium-high charcoal or gas grill fire.


In a medium bowl, toss the zucchini with the remaining 2 Tbs. oil, 1/2 tsp. salt, and a few grinds of pepper.


Set the zucchini ovals at an angle on the grill grates and cook until the zucchini has developed rich brown grill marks, about 3 minutes. Turn the zucchini with tongs and cook until the other sides have rich brown grill marks and the zucchini is tender, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a small serving dish or platter.


Drizzle 3 to 4 tsp. of the chive oil over the zucchini and sprinkle with the reserved 1 Tbs. chives.

Grilled Butternut Squash Skewers

These colorful skewers are a delicious accompaniment to Spicy-Smoky Mexican Pork Kebabs (grill the squash after grilling the meat).
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 3 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Boil the squash until tender but still firm, about 10 min. Drain and cool under cold water. Toss the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Thread the squash onto skewers and set aside.

Build a medium-hot charcoal fire or heat a gas grill to medium high and oil the grill grate. Grill the squash skewers, basting with the reserved marinade, until browned and tender, 5 to 7 min.

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Sherry Maple Vinaigrette

I like to include the optional bacon in this salad because I think its meaty smokiness adds great contrast to the bitter greens, creamy goat cheese, and sweet butternut squash.
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup port
  • 1 butternut squash (about 2 lb.)
  • 1 small red onion
  • 2 Tbs. olive oil
  • 2 Tbs. maple syrup
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 medium heads Belgian endive
  • 1 small head frisée
  • 1/2 small head radicchio
  • 3 cups loosely packed spinach leaves, stemmed
  • Sherry Maple Vinaigrette
  • 6-oz. log fresh goat cheese
  • 1/3 cup chopped toasted walnuts
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)

Cover the raisins with the port and let sit overnight.

Heat the oven to 400°F. Cut off the bulb end of the squash; reserve for another use. Peel the cylinder end and cut into 1/2- to 3/4-inch dice. Thinly slice the red onion. In a bowl, combine the squash, red onion, olive oil, and maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper and toss to combine thoroughly. Spread the squash and onions on an oiled sheet pan and roast, stirring occasionally, until the squash is just cooked through and the squash and onions are browned, 20 to 25 minutes.

Cut the endive into 1/2-inch slices. Cut off the stem end of the frisée, separate the leaves, and cut them into smaller pieces. Core and roughly chop the radicchio. Combine the endive, frisée, radicchio, and spinach in a nonreactive mixing bowl; toss with 1/2 cup of the vinaigrette. Arrange the greens on six plates.

Heat the broiler. Slice the goat cheese into 6 rounds and arrange on a baking sheet. Broil until just soft, 2 to 3 minutes. Top each plate of greens with the still-warm squash and onions. Drain the raisins and sprinkle them, the toasted walnuts, and the bacon, if using, around the plate. Garnish with a round of warmed goat cheese. Drizzle a few teaspoons of the remaining vinaigrette around each plate and serve. Reserve extra vinaigrette for another use.

Spelt Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Zucchini

This summery side salad pairs chewy grains of spelt with sweet cherry tomatoes and zucchini. It's a perfect take-along dish for a picnic or potluck.
  • 3 cups spelt
  • Kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup plus 1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil, more as needed
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1-1/4 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1-1/4 cup diced zucchini (1/2-inch dice)
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
  • 3 Tbs. chopped fresh basil
  • 1 Tbs. chopped fresh oregano

Fill a large bowl with cold water, add the spelt, and let soak for 10 to 18 hours. Drain. Bring 7 cups of water to a boil in a 4-quart pot over high heat. Add 3/4 tsp. salt. Add the spelt, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally and adding more boiling water as necessary to keep the spelt covered, until tender, about 45 to 60 minutes. Drain and rinse the spelt with cold water to stop the cooking.

Transfer the spelt to a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet, drizzle with 1 Tbs. of the oil, and toss lightly to coat. Spread the spelt on the baking sheet and cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Put the vinegar in a small bowl and gradually whisk in the remaining 1/2 cup of oil. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and additional vinegar or oil as needed.

Put the cooked and cooled spelt in a large serving bowl and toss to break up any clumps. Add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, scallions, basil, and oregano and 1/2 cup vinaigrette and toss. Taste and season as needed with more vinaigrette, salt, pepper and serve.

Shaved Summer Squash with Almond Salsa Verde

When shaved into long, thin ribbons, summer squash more readily soaks up flavor—plus, it’s fun to eat.
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped toasted blanched almonds
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
  • 1-1/2 Tbs. chopped capers
  • 1 Tbs. minced shallots
  • 1 tsp. minced garlic
  • 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1-1/4 lb. yellow squash and green zucchini, trimmed and cut in half crosswise

In a large bowl, combine the almonds, cilantro, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, capers, shallots, garlic, and kosher salt.

Shave the squash and zucchini into ribbons with a vegetable peeler. Toss with the salsa verde, sea salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle with more extra-virgin olive oil and serve.

Delicata Squash with Caramelized Shallots & Sherry

  • 1-1/4 lb. delicata squash (1 large)
  • 2 Tbs. olive oil
  • 1/4 cup dry sherry (such as fino)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 Tbs. unsalted butter
  • 1 cup thinly sliced shallots (2 to 3 large)
  • 4 tsp. finely chopped fresh sage

Heat the oven to 350°F. Peel the squash, leaving the skin in the crevices (it's tender enough to eat). Trim the ends. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Slice the halves crosswise 1/2 inch thick.

Heat 1 Tbs. of the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the squash in a single layer and cook without moving until the slices begin to brown, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook until the second side begins to brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Repeat with the remaining squash. Arrange the squash in a single layer in the dish. Sprinkle with 2 Tbs. of the sherry, 1/2 tsp. salt, and a few grinds of pepper.

Heat the remaining 1 Tbs. olive oil and the butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and a pinch of salt and cook, stirring frequently, until the shallots turn deep golden brown on the edges, 3 to 5 minutes. Take the pan off the heat and immediately add the sage and the remaining 2 Tbs. sherry, scraping up the browned bits on the bottom of pan. Scatter the shallots over the squash.

Cover the pan with foil and bake until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork, 25 to 30 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Quick-Cooking Ratatouille

Sweet balsamic vinegar helps mellow the flavors of the vegetables.
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and coarsely chopped
  • 5 scallions, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 small eggplant, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks
  • 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes (about 16), quartered
  • 1 large clove garlic, chopped
  • 1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 Tbs. balsamic vinegar; more to taste
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a large, heavy-based skillet, heat about 2 Tbs. of the olive oil over high heat. Add the bell pepper and scallions and sauté until lightly browned, about 4 minutes. Add the remaining oil and the eggplant. Reduce the heat to medium high and sauté the eggplant until just barely tender, about 4 minutes. Add the zucchini. Continue cooking, stirring often, until all the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, garlic, and thyme. Cook until the tomatoes are just heated through, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat. Sprinkle the vegetables with the balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Serve warm.

Butternut Squash & Potato Gratin with Walnut Crust

To vary this gratin, add tomatoes, caramelized onions, or other vegetables. It's wise to put a sheet of foil on the bottom rack of the oven to catch any cream that bubbles over.
  • 1 butternut squash (about 2 lb.), peeled
  • 2 Idaho potatoes (about 1-1/4 lb. total), peeled
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 Tbs. grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
  • 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs combined with 2 Tbs. melted butter

Heat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8x8-inch (2-qt.) glass or ceramic baking dish. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds and fibers. Slice the squash and potatoes about 1/8 inch thick (use a mandoline if you have one). Line the bottom of the baking dish with a layer of squash (overlapping slightly), season lightly with salt and pepper, sprinkle with a little of the Parmigiano, and drizzle with a little of the cream. Cover with a layer of potato slices, season with salt, pepper, Parmigiano, and cream. Repeat with the remaining squash and potatoes until the dish is full, ending with a top layer of squash, seasoned and topped with any remaining cheese and cream. (You may have extra squash.) Press down lightly to distribute the cream and compact the layers. The last layer of squash should be just sitting in the cream, but not covered by it. Cover the dish with foil and bake until the vegetables feel tender when poked with a thin, sharp knife (check the middle layer), about 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Butternut Squash & Potato Gratin with Walnut Crust Recipe
For a gratin, alternate layers of squash and potato, drizzling cream and sprinkling Parmigiano in between.
Butternut Squash & Potato Gratin with Walnut Crust Recipe
Press gently on the completed layers to distribute the cream evenly.

Combine the walnuts and buttered breadcrumbs. Remove the gratin from the oven, sprinkle with the breadcrumb-nut mixture, and bake until the top is lightly browned, 5 to 10 minutes. Let sit in a warm place for 20 minutes before serving so that liquids will set and tighten the gratin. Cut into 9 squares and serve.

Butternut Squash & Potato Gratin with Walnut Crust Recipe
Finish cooking the gratin uncovered to brown the breadcrumb-walnut topping.

Penne with Crisp Prosciutto, Zucchini and Corn

Sautéing the prosciutto in a skillet crisps and intensifies its texture and flavor so it becomes like a refined version of bacon. Instead of overpowering the dish, the prosciutto complements the sweetness of the corn, brightness of the mint, and delicate flavor of the zucchini.
  • Kosher salt
  • 5 Tbs. olive oil
  • 8 thin slices prosciutto (about 4 oz.), cut into strips
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced (1 cup)
  • 2 small zucchini (about 3/4 lb.), trimmed, quartered lengthwise, and cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 ears corn, shucked and kernels sliced off (about 1 cup), or 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Pecorino-Romano
  • 3 Tbs. chopped fresh mint
  • 1 lb. penne
  • 2 tsp. sherry vinegar or cider vinegar
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Meanwhile, put 2 Tbs. oil and the prosciutto in a large (12-inch) skillet, place over medium heat, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the prosciutto browns in places and becomes crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer the prosciutto to a large plate lined with paper towels.

Add 1 Tbs. oil and the onion to the skillet, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp. salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens completely and turns light brown, about 6 minutes; add 1 or 2 Tbs. water to the skillet if the onion starts to stick or burn. Add the zucchini and corn, sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. salt, and cook, tossing occasionally, until the zucchini becomes tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in half the Pecorino-Romano and all the mint.

Add the penne to the pot of boiling water and cook according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta. Add the pasta, the remaining 2 Tbs. oil, the vinegar, and 1 tsp. black pepper to the skillet with the zucchini and corn mixture. Set the skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring, for 1 minute so the pasta mixes with the vegetables. Add the reserved pasta water and stir. Serve sprinkled with the crisp prosciutto and the remaining Pecorino-Romano.

Grilled Sausage with Summer Squash, Fresh Herbs & Olives

The possibilities for this dish are limited only by what you've got fresh on hand, so don't hold back—add other summer vegetables, like peppers, eggplant or sweet onions.
  • 1-1/2 lb. mixed summer squash, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt and black pepper
  • 1 lb. Italian sausage links (chicken or pork)
  • 1/3 cup mixed herbs, such as cilantro, parsley, mint, and basil, chopped
  • 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
  • 1 Tbs. capers, rinsed
  • Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Prepare a medium-hot grill fire.

Toss the squash with the olive oil in a medium bowl; season to taste with salt and pepper.

Grill the squash and the sausage, turning frequently, until the squash is just tender and the sausage is cooked through, 8 to 12 minutes. Cut the sausage into 1-inch chunks. Toss the squash and sausage with the herbs, olives, and capers. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Spicy Seared Chipotle Shrimp with Zucchini & Chorizo

You can't go wrong if you start with very dry shrimp for this simple sauté—give them a good, hot sear, and finish with the flavorful sauce.
  • 1/2 cup low-salt chicken broth
  • 1/2 small chipotle, seeded and minced, plus 2 Tbs. adobo sauce (from a can of chipotles en adobo)
  • 1 Tbs. tomato paste
  • 1 tsp. light brown sugar
  • 1 lb. shrimp (21 to 25 per lb.), peeled, deveined, rinsed, and patted dry
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt; more as needed
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 lb. chorizo, cut into 1/4-inch dice (scant 1 cup)
  • 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch dice (2 cups)
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced (1 cup)
  • 1/2 small red bell pepper, sliced into strips about 1/4 inch wide and 2 to 3 inches long (1/2 cup)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 Tbs. fresh lime juice; more as needed

In a measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, chipotle, adobo sauce, tomato paste, and brown sugar.

Sprinkle the shrimp with a scant 1/4 tsp. salt and a few generous grinds of black pepper. Put a 12-inch skillet (not nonstick) over medium-high heat for 1-1/2 minutes. Add 2 Tbs. of the oil and once it’s shimmering hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook undisturbed until the shrimp browns nicely, about 2 minutes. Flip and brown the second side, about 1-1/2 minutes. Transfer to a large plate. The shrimp should still be a little undercooked.

Add the remaining 2 Tbs. oil and the chorizo to the pan and cook, tossing, until it starts to brown, about 1 minute. Add the zucchini, onion, and pepper, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp. salt, and cook, tossing often, until the zucchini browns in places and is just tender, about 4 minutes.

Add the broth mixture to the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium low. Stir in the shrimp, about half of the cilantro, and the lime juice. Cook, stirring often, until the zucchini is tender and the shrimp are opaque throughout (cut one in half to check), 2 to 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and more lime juice. Serve immediately, sprinkled with the remaining cilantro.

Sweet and Spicy Roasted Vegetables

When you think of vegetables as a major player on your plate—more of a main course than a side—suddenly they merit more attention and creativity, but that doesn't mean they need to be difficult. This dish is simple, fragrant, and delicious.
  • 5 medium carrots, halved lengthwise, and cut into 1-inch pieces (about 1-1/2 cups)
  • 2 small red onions, each cut into 8 wedges (trim the root end but leave intact to hold layers together)
  • 2 medium red bell peppers, seeded and cut into 11/2-inch pieces (about 3 cups)
  • 1-1/2 lb. butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces (about 3 cups)
  • 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp. ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp. cayenne
  • 1 Tbs. honey
  • 1 Tbs. chopped fresh thyme

Position a rack in the center of the oven, put a rimmed baking sheet on the rack, and heat the oven to 450°F.

In a large bowl, toss the carrots, onions, bell peppers, and squash with 1 Tbs. of the oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread the vegetables on the hot baking sheet in a single layer and roast until tender, 30 to 35 minutes.

Heat the remaining 1 Tbs. oil in an 8-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the spices and cook until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the honey and thyme and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Drizzle the spice mixture over the roasted vegetables and toss to coat. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Quick-Roasted Winter Vegetables

For weeknight meals, you can speed up the process of roasting winter vegetables by cutting them into thin slices. For a medley like this one, roast the different vegetables on separate baking sheets, so each one gets the right amount of cooking time.
For the vegetables: choose ONE of the following
  • 1 lb. beets (about 3 medium), ends trimmed, sliced 3/16-inch thick
  • 1 lb. carrots (about 5 large), peeeled, ends trimmed, sliced on a sharp diagonal 3/16-inch thick
  • 1-1/2 lb. celery root, peeled, ends trimmed, halved, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1 lb. red onions (about 3 small), peeled, ends trimmed, sliced 1/4 to 3/8-inch thick
  • 1 lb. parsnips (about 4 large), ends trimmed, peeled, sliced on a sharp diagonal 3/16-inch thick
  • 1 lb. red potatoes (3 to 4 small), scrubbed, sliced 3/16-inch thick
  • 1-1/2 lb. sweet potatoes (2 medium), scrubbed, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1 lb. turnips (about 3 small), scrubbed, ends trimmed, sliced 1/8- to 3/16-inch thick
  • 1 lb. acorn or delicata squash (2 to 3 small), ends trimmed, cut horizontally into 1/2-inch rings (trim away seeds by running a paring knife around the inside of the rings)
For the seasoning:
  • 2 Tbs. vegetable or olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt; more to taste
  • 1 Tbs. fresh thyme, oregano, or sage (roughly chopped) or rosemary (finely chopped)

Heat the oven to 450°F. Combine the sliced vegetables, oil, salt, and herbs in a bowl. Toss to coat thoroughly. Arrange the vegetables in a single layer without crowding on a large parchment- or foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Roast until soft on the inside (test with the tip of a knife or a wooden skewer) and browned on the outside (check the bottoms), 18 to 22 minutes. If you like, flip the vegetables halfway through cooking. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Butternut Squash Soup with Apple & Bacon

Smoky bacon, herby sage, and sweet apple give this squash soup layers of flavor.Use the Creamy Vegetable Soups Recipe Maker to create your own velvety soup, or use the Hearty Bean & Vegetable Soup Recipe Maker if chunky soups are more your style.
  • 8 slices bacon, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch strips
  • 2-1/2 lb. butternut squash (about 1 medium), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch dice (to yield about 6 cups)
  • 1 small Granny Smith or other tart-sweet apple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch dice (to yield about 1 cup)
  • 1-1/2 Tbs. finely chopped fresh sage leaves
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 cups homemade or low-salt chicken or vegetable broth

In a 5-quart or larger stockpot set over medium heat, cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until crisp and golden, 8 to 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.

Increase heat to medium high. Add the squash to the pot with the bacon fat and cook until lightly browned, 4 to 6 minutes (resist the urge to stir it too often or it won’t brown). Stir in the apple, sage, salt, and pepper and cook for about 4 minutes (you’ll see more browning occur on the bottom of the pot than on the vegetables). Add the broth, scraping up any browned bits in the pot with a wooden spoon. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce the heat to maintain a simmer, and cook until the squash and apples are very soft, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool somewhat.

Add about half the bacon to the soup and purée, using a stand or immersion blender (you’ll need to work in batches if using a stand blender). Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Reheat the soup and garnish each serving with the remaining bacon.

Creamy Rotini with Zucchini, Tomato, and Red Pepper

The season’s most plentiful vegetables come together in this satisfying pasta dish. To make it even heartier, try adding diced grilled chicken.
  • Kosher salt
  • 2 Tbs. olive oil
  • 1 small white onion, cut into 1/2-inch dice
  • 4 ripe Roma tomatoes, cored, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch dice
  • 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch dice
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch dice
  • 2 medium cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1-3/4 oz. Parmigiano-Reggiano finely grated with a rasp (3/4 cup); more for serving
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
  • 1 Tbs. finely grated lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)
  • 1 lb. rotini, or other short corkscrew pasta

Bring an 8-quart pot of well-salted water to a boil over high heat.

Heat the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, garlic, 2 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are barely tender, about 7 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Stir in the cheese, basil, and lemon zest.

Meanwhile, boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Pour in the sauce and toss until the pasta is evenly coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper, sprinkle with additional cheese, and serve.

Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Purée with Orange and Thyme

The pumpkin shell, used here as a serving vessel, makes for a dramatic presentation, perfect for a Thanksgiving dinner table, but feel free to skip it for a casual dinner. This makes a great side dish for roast poultry or pork.
For more side dish recipes visit The Guide to Thanksgiving Dinner.
  • 2 Tbs. unsalted butter; more for the baking sheet
  • 1 small (1-1/2 lb.) Sugar Pie pumpkin
  • 1 medium (2- to 2-1/4 -lb.) Sugar Pie pumpkin
  • 1 large (14- to 16-oz.) sweet potato
  • 2 Tbs. light brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. finely grated orange zest
  • 1 tsp. minced fresh thyme
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 375°F.

Generously butter a rimmed baking sheet. Cut the small pumpkin in half lengthwise and put it cut side down on the baking sheet. Cut a 1/2-inch lid from the stem end of the medium pumpkin and put both pieces cut side down on the same baking sheet. Cut the sweet potato in half lengthwise and place cut side down on the same baking sheet. Cover the vegetables tightly with foil and bake until the sweet potato and halved pumpkin are very tender, and the larger pumpkin is tender when pierced with fork, about 1-1/2 hours. Let stand until cool enough to handle.

Scoop the seeds from the halved pumpkin and discard. Remove the skin and put the flesh in a food processor. Peel the sweet potato and add it to the processor, along with the butter, brown sugar, orange zest, and thyme. Purée until smooth and season to taste with salt and pepper.


Scoop the seeds from the larger pumpkin, leaving the shell and flesh intact. Season the inside of the pumpkin lightly with salt and pepper. Transfer the purée to the pumpkin shell and top with the lid. (If you can’t fit all the purée, put the remainder in a small baking dish, cover, and bake alongside the pumpkin.) Put the pumpkin on the baking sheet and bake until the pumpkin and purée are heated through, about 40 minutes. Transfer to a serving plate and serve, spooning the purée from the pumpkin.