Orange Wellness Elixir

お元気ですか？(O-genki desu ka?) Vous allez bien? Dje si? Shnoo ahwalak? Wherever I travel, I like to think about linguistic nuances that reveal something about a culture, and sometimes even about human nature. While every place has its own version of “How are you?” and other common greetings, there are some places that add a distinct and interesting twist. In Japan, “O-genki desu ka?” asks not only how you are, but also whether you have good health, energy and spirit. The French likewise often eschew the open-ended “How are you?” for the more to-the-point “Are you well?”

Beet, Carrot & Goat Cheese Stack with Chive-Pistachio Pesto

I believe there’s some wisdom in the mantra, “Eat Your Colors,” and this little stack of goodness embraces it. Just the sight of these colorful layers of earthy red beet, crisp grated carrot, soft melt-in-your-mouth goat cheese and a drizzle of chive-pistachio pesto energizes me. As an appetizer, lunch, or side dish, this is one mighty tower of wholesome goodness. Have you filled your plate with colors today?

Wine-Braised Beef, Carrot, Daikon & Mushrooms

Spring’s dance has begun. She steps forward, beaming and bright; she retreats behind a sudden gust of cold air and mist. After a stretch of warm, sunny days, we have a chill in the air, another forecast of cold rain & snow. There’s still time before we put away the heavy blue dutch oven, still time to enjoy another comforting and hearty braise.

Spiced Carrot, Apple & Ginger Soup

Some days, a kind gesture means everything. After our recent six-night stay in the hospital with our little one, we came home and collapsed in a heap. I was too exhausted to even boil water. Seriously. And then, a friend stopped by with warm, velvety carrot soup. And warm biscuits to boot. I cannot tell you how utterly delicious it all was, how absolutely soothing and healing. It was a great reminder to me how a kind gesture like this — not to mention delicious home-cooked food — can make a world of difference to someone going through a difficult time. Thank you, Teresa!

I haven’t stopped thinking about that carrot soup, and now that we’re feeling better, I thought I’d try creating one with a bit of a kick from ginger and other warming spices from my pantry. I decided to add some sweetness from an apple too, and to keep it vegan (with veggie broth) and dairy-free (no cream or butter) for another healthful and soulful soup. Doesn’t that bright orange color just cheer you? Don’t forget some warm biscuits for dipping. Enjoy!

Warm Ginger-Sesame Chicken Over Carrot & Radicchio Salad

Maybe it’s in anticipation of The Big Cooking Day next week, but lately I’ve been drawn to fresh and light meals that are easy to prepare. This bright salad combines a spectrum of flavors and colors to please the palate and the eyes.

Coriander Honey Roasted Baby Carrots

Don’t these babies look happy? These are real baby carrots, not the ones you find at the supermarket labeled as “baby carrots”