The grocery list is simple and accessible, but with a few fresh ingredients and a little creativity, you can craft restaurant-quality fare at home. Start by visiting a local farmer’s market or food co-op to source seasonal, sustainably grown ingredients. Fresh produce not only tastes better, but it supports your community.
With a bundle of aromatic fresh herbs, a simple tomato sauce becomes a bright marinara bursting with flavor. Simmer crushed San Marzano tomatoes with chopped basil, oregano, rosemary and crushed red pepper flakes. Serve the sauce with pasta or as a dipping sauce for bread.
A crusty baguette, a creamy French-style cheese and a jar of artisanal jam or chutney make an elegant cheese board. Look for local cheeses at your grocery store or cheese shop and pair them with condiments featuring complementary flavors and textures.
A whole chicken becomes a rustic roast when rubbed with fresh thyme, lemon zest, garlic and olive oil. Roast until the juices run clear, then serve with roast vegetables for a comforting family meal. Save leftovers to make stock, soup or sandwiches.
Pancakes become a special weekend brunch treat when topped with seasonal fruit, Greek yogurt, and a drizzle of honey. Mash bananas or berries and fold into the batter before cooking for extra fruity flavor in every bite.
With premium dark chocolate, heavy cream and a splash of your favorite liqueur, homemade chocolate truffles make an impressive gift or after-dinner treat. Roll the truffle balls in cocoa powder, crushed nuts or flaky sea salt for extra flavor and crunch.
A platter of artisanal meats, cheeses, olives and cornichons is all you need for a stylish appetizer. Visit a local deli or butcher shop to source prosciutto, salami, aged Gruyere, clothbound cheddar or creamy Brillat-Savarin.
In the summer, a simple caprese salad of fresh mozzarella, basil, tomatoes and olive oil captures the essence of the season. Use heirloom tomatoes for the most flavor and be sure to tear basil leaves instead of chopping for maximum aroma. Season with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
A handful of foraged mushrooms transforms risotto into an earthy, comforting dish. Clean and slice mushrooms like chanterelles, morels or porcini, then sauté in butter and garlic. Fold into hot risotto along with parmesan cheese, fresh herbs and lemon zest.
With a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs, a homemade vinaigrette enlivens a simple salad. For extra flavor, toast nuts or seeds to add crunch.
A flaky croissant or danish becomes a special treat when stuffed with homemade or artisanal jam, lemon curd or chocolate-hazelnut spread. Proof and bake the pastry, then split open and fill just before serving.
A crusty baguette, softened butter, and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt is all you need for a satisfying snack. Spread the butter thickly over the bread and season generously with sea salt. The combination of creamy, salty and crunchy is pure decadence.