the kitchen is your canvas

recipes aren't rules, they're suggestions!

I think many of us have learned to follow recipes exactly as written—that’s just how we were taught! But honestly, I see recipes more as suggestions rather than strict rules. Sure, that’s how we’ve learned to use them, but the real magic of cooking lies in the freedom to explore and adapt based on what you have on hand.

A recipe can be whatever you make of it, and that’s one of the reasons cooking is such an outlet for me. While it’s rewarding to see a dish come to life just like it does in the pictures or videos, I find just as much joy in putting my own spin on it. Changing something as simple as the seasoning, sauce, or grain can transform a dish into something entirely new. So, while I love these three recipes as they are, I won’t hold it against you if you decide to mix things up a bit!

Each week, I find myself offering tips to simplify the cooking process, but when it comes down to it, I’m mainly suggesting substitutions based on your preferences. Of course, there are times when I provide specific tips or tricks to help the recipe turn out just right, but ultimately, I consistently recommend alternative ingredients because a dish can be made in countless different ways.

This rant may have gone on longer than intended, but suffice it to say: it’s not the end of the world if you’re missing an ingredient or if you’re not completely in love with every component of a recipe. In fact, not having every ingredient might be a blessing in disguise! So go ahead, deviate from the original, make it your own, and add your unique touch. You might just find yourself loving it even more! So go ahead and play in the kitchen!

WHIPPED BUTTERNUT SQUASH WITH CRISPY SAGE TOFU

Recommendations:

• I suggest following the order listed above for the most efficient prep. The recipe is timed to ensure everything is cooked perfectly: begin with the squash since it takes the longest, then add the tofu, followed by the broccolini. Cook the chickpeas once everything else is in the oven.

• You can also roast the sage with the squash, but be sure to keep an eye on it and remove it before it burns.

Grocery List for Whipped Butternut Squash with Crispy Sage Tofu