Ricotta Cheese

Creamy and lusciously mild, ricotta cheese is a delightful Italian staple known for its soft, grainy texture and sweet, milky flavor. Each spoonful feels like a gentle embrace from the Italian countryside.

Notes

Fresh ricotta is best enjoyed soon after making, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Look for ricotta with a clean, fresh aroma.

Uses

lasagna
cannoli
pasta fillings
desserts
topping for roasted vegetables

Replacements

cottage cheese blended smooth
cream cheese
mascarpone

Red Onion

Red onions are a type of bulb onion known for their vibrant purple-red skin and white flesh. They have a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that mellows when cooked, making them versatile for both raw and cooked dishes.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable belonging to the Brassica family, which includes cabbage and kale. Originating in the Mediterranean region, it has become a staple in many Western diets due to its health benefits and versatility. It offers a mild, slightly bitter flavor with a vegetal aroma that brightens when cooked. The florets have a firm texture that becomes tender with cooking, while the stalk is denser and requires longer to soften. In the kitchen, broccoli is known for its ability to hold up well to various cooking methods, from steaming and roasting to stir-frying, often maintaining a vibrant green color and a pleasant crunch when not overcooked.

Recipes to try

Smoky Sweet Potato and Black Bean Stew

Hearty and deeply flavorful, this stew is a comforting hug in a bowl with smoky spices and tender sweet potatoes.

Thai Peanut Veggie Lettuce Wraps

Crispy, fresh veggies hugged by buttery lettuce leaves, drizzled with a creamy, tangy peanut sauce that'll make your taste buds do the tango.