Transform fresh produce into vibrant sides and satisfying main dishes. Learn proper cooking techniques, seasonal selection, and creative combinations that make vegetables the star of any meal.
Achieve caramelized edges and tender interiors through proper roasting technique. Learn ideal oven temperature, proper spacing on pans, oil coating methods, and timing for different vegetables. Roasting concentrates natural sugars and develops complex flavors impossible with other methods. This versatile technique transforms everything from root vegetables to Brussels sprouts into craveable sides.
30-min
Create satisfying salads using the formula of greens, vegetables, protein, healthy fat, and dressing. We explain proper washing and drying, ingredient ratios, and strategic layering for make-ahead meals. Learn texture contrast, flavor balance, and dressing distribution techniques. A properly constructed salad becomes a complete meal rather than a boring side dish.
30-min
Create tangy, crunchy pickles in under an hour using simple vinegar brine. This refrigerator pickling method works for cucumbers, onions, carrots, radishes, and countless vegetables. Learn brine ratios, spice variations, safe storage duration, and creative applications. Quick pickles add bright acidity to sandwiches, grain bowls, and cheese plates with minimal effort.
Make-Ahead
Master this two-step technique of boiling and ice bath for vibrant color and perfect texture. Blanching preserves nutrients, sets color, and maintains crispness for salads and crudités. We cover timing for different vegetables, proper salting, and ice bath setup. This professional technique elevates vegetable preparation for parties and meal prep.
30-min
Create endless salad dressing variations using the basic oil-to-acid ratio with proper emulsification. Learn the standard three-to-one proportion, whisking technique, and flavor building through herbs, spices, and aromatics. Homemade vinaigrettes cost pennies compared to bottled versions and taste infinitely fresher. Master this formula and never buy dressing again.
Pantry Swap
Cook hearty greens like kale, collards, and chard to tender perfection with proper wilting technique. We explain stem removal, rough chopping, hot pan setup, and quick cooking with garlic and aromatics. Sautéed greens cook down dramatically, allowing you to consume large nutrient-dense portions. This simple side dish complements any protein and comes together in minutes.
30-min
Choose peak-season produce for maximum flavor, nutrition, and value throughout the year. This comprehensive guide covers what to buy each season in Canada, proper selection criteria, and storage methods. Seasonal vegetables taste dramatically better and cost less than out-of-season imports. Learn to plan menus around available produce for both quality and budget benefits.
Beginner
Achieve smoky, charred vegetables on the grill using proper preparation and timing. Learn oil coating, seasoning, ideal grill temperature, and when to flip different vegetables. Grilling adds depth impossible with other cooking methods and works for zucchini, peppers, eggplant, corn, and more. These vegetables shine in salads, sandwiches, or as standalone sides.
30-min