As the school year kicks off, our kitchens have been bustling with activity, and banana bread is just the beginning. From quick lunches to comforting dinners, we’ve tried a variety of recipes to keep things interesting.
This week, we explored a mix of sweet and savory dishes that are easy to make and perfect for the transition from summer to fall. Here are some of our favorites.
Gluten-Free Brownies
Gluten-free desserts often get a bad rap, but these Chocolate-Tahini Brownies are a delicious exception. Involving minimal preparation, these brownies strike the perfect balance between effort and reward. Not only are they fudgy and rich, but the swirl of nutty tahini adds an extra layer of complexity. Perfect for a last-minute dessert, they take just about an hour to make.
Late-Summer Eggplant
Even though autumn is on my mind, the summer produce still shines. Japanese Eggplant with Cashews and Chiles makes excellent use of this seasonal vegetable. After a quick high-heat roast, the eggplants become creamy inside while maintaining a tender skin. The highlight, however, is the topping made with crispy garlic oil, buttery cashews, and fresh Fresno chiles. This dish was a hit all weekend long, covering most of my meals.
Ina’s Hot-Smoked Salmon
For many, summer simply isn’t complete without grilling. Labor Day weekend was the perfect occasion to whip up Cedar-Plank Salmon—a family favorite. The simple but flavorful rub of sugars, salt, peppercorns, and lemon zest is best applied the night before, although last-minute prep works too. The smoky, tender salmon is a seasonal delight, and leftovers are just as enjoyable the next day. In this case, there were no leftovers to speak of.
Marinated Beans for Lunch
What makes this dish particularly appealing is its flexibility. You can use whatever canned beans and herbs you have on hand. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a satisfying and easy lunch option that can be prepared ahead of time.
Back-to-School Banana Bread
For parents looking to involve their children in kitchen activities, this banana bread recipe is a great choice. It not only teaches measuring and mixing but also offers a sense of accomplishment once the delicious loaf is ready to eat.
The Versatility of Simple Ingredients
Maintaining a well-stocked pantry and being open to ingredient substitutions can go a long way in expanding your culinary repertoire. Creativity in the kitchen often comes from working with what you have, and these recipes are a testament to that principle.
Weekend Culinary Adventures
From sweet delights to savory treats, these recipes brought a lot of variety to our meals. Each dish offered something unique, whether it was the nutty complexity of tahini brownies or the smoky richness of cedar-plank salmon. We look forward to experimenting with more recipes and enjoying the delicious results.
Final Thoughts
This week’s culinary experiments showcased a range of flavors and techniques, proving that even simple recipes can result in extraordinary meals. With a little creativity and a few staple ingredients, the possibilities in the kitchen are endless.
As we transition from summer to fall, these recipes brought a mix of comfort and excitement to our table. They were easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Here’s to more culinary adventures in the weeks to come, making the most of seasonal ingredients and simple, delicious recipes.
Source: Bonappetit