Green Bean Salad with Tomatoes, Arugula, and Basil Dressing

The recipe for this green bean salad with tomatoes, arugula, and basil dressing takes advantage of fresh ingredients that you can find at a farmers' market or your own garden. 

This salad is great for a picnic or a party and can easily be made in advance so you can enjoy spending time with your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen

Roasted Pear, Parmesan, and Spiced Pecan Salad

This roasted pear, Parmesan, and spiced pecan salad is so refreshing, and it was the perfect dinner this weekend when I wanted something light. It's a tasty combination of sweet pears, salty cheese, peppery arugula, and spicy pecans.

I found some huge Asian pears in my local grocery store. They may be a bit pricey, but they were perfect for roasting, and just burst with juice when we sliced into them. In addition, I found some authentic Parmigiano Reggiano yesterday that I couldn't resist.

Sardinian Herb Soup

This Sardinian herb soup is herby and delicious, and makes the most of fresh spring herbs available this time of year. It also includes pancetta, white beans, and Italian cheese.

Sardinian herb soup, or S'erbuzzu, is a rustic soup of greens, white beans, and a bit of meat and pasta. This soup is unique to Gavoi, a small town in northern Sardinia.

Sausage and Cambozola Pizza with Arugula and Grapes

This hot Italian sausage pizza, topped with Cambozola, ricotta, and Fontina cheeses, as well as grapes and shallots, is magical, and the roasted grapes add a savory sweet compliment to the three cheeses in the pizza.

I'm sure you're thinking, "grape pizza? That's weird!" Not so! Just think of it as artisan bread, wine, and cheese! You definitely need to give it a chance.

Cemita Poblana with Pork Milanesa

This Cemita Poblana is based on a regional Mexican sandwich from the historic city and state of Puebla located southeast of Mexico City. It is distinguished by its sesame seed roll.

I loved this sandwich! It's soooo good! The flavors of the layered fillings give it an amazing depth of flavor. There are no extraneous ingredients, such as lettuce, to fill out the sandwich. It stands on its own.