Recipe Matchmaker is back, inviting readers to explore unique vegetarian dishes that cater to specific culinary needs. Below are tailored recipe recommendations sourced from the New York Times Cooking database, addressing various requests from readers seeking exciting meal ideas.
### Creative Solutions for Readers’ Requests
#### Winter Squash and Greens Meal
Mark, a caregiver seeking meals that are both nourishing and adaptable, requested vegetarian options featuring winter squash and greens. He mentioned the need for recipes that can serve four to six people.
Cooking with Blue Hubbard squash offers a sweet and nutty flavor, perfect for soups and stews that hold up well when frozen. One suggestion is Kay Chun’s **35-Minute Squash and Chickpea Stew with Lemongrass**, which boasts an uncomplicated, budget-friendly ingredient list. This dish includes spinach along with coconut milk and fresh basil, providing vibrant taste. Alternatively, Florence Fabricant’s **Miso Squash Soup** could be a great option, allowing flexibility with the choice of greens you have on hand, whether fresh or frozen.
#### Moving Beyond Beans and Rice
Danielle expressed frustration with the shortage of vegetarian dishes beyond the usual beans and rice. She sought new ideas that would satisfy her adventurous kids.
For a delightful alternative, consider Hetty Lui McKinnon’s **Crispy Sheet-Pan Noodles with Glazed Tofu**, featuring a sauce made from hoisin, sesame, maple, and garlic—flavors children typically enjoy. Additionally, her **Kale, Couscous, and Tofu Salad with Carrot-Ginger Dressing** offers a protein-rich option, while the **Sheet-Pan Coconut Curry with Squash and Tofu** combines satisfying ingredients, although freezing isn’t recommended for this one. Another option is Melissa Clark’s **Corn Polenta with Baked Eggs**, combining carbs and protein in a comforting meal.
#### Low-Prep Recipes for Kitchen Renovations
Karen, dealing with a challenging kitchen renovation, requested low-prep recipes that require minimal equipment.
With just a grill available, she could whip up Kay Chun’s **Grilled Tofu Salad**, which involves only a simple lemon-miso vinaigrette and an array of fresh vegetables. For a five-ingredient wonder, Ali Slagle’s **Grilled Broccoli and Halloumi Salad** also requires minimal effort.
If using a microwave, Eric Kim’s **Silky Microwave-Steamed Eggs** can make a fulfilling meal with ease and efficiency. While it might seem unconventional, a microwaved baked potato topped with sour cream, herbs, and chiles could also be a simple dinner option, especially with limited cooking capabilities.
#### Embracing Summer Produce Late in the Season
Faith shared her excitement about summer produce but wanted inspiration for dishes that could bridge the gap to fall flavors.
In honor of fading summer tomatoes, why not try the **Caramelized Tomato Tarte Tatin** by Melissa Clark? It’s a recipe worth sharing, highlighting juicy tomatoes at their peak. Alternatively, David Tanis’s **Tomato Risotto** or Sarah DiGregorio’s **Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup** provide warmth for the cooler evenings ahead. Combining tomatoes with eggplant can also offer satisfying meals like classic ratatouille, whether served on pasta, as a sheet-pan meal with chickpeas, or in traditional style.
### Quick Recipe Roundup
The Recipe Matchmaker also hosted a lightning round, offering succinct recipes based on unique requests:
1. **Cucumber Salad with Roasted Peanuts** – Halve the recipe for a light meal that pairs well with dumplings (Jennifer).
2. **Avocado Salad with Herbs and Capers** – A fresh take on avocado, avoiding the typical toast (Haley W).
3. **Cauliflower-Based Bolognese** – An excellent vegetarian alternative for Kalen’s cravings without mushrooms (Kalen).
4. **Eighteen-Minute Kerala-Style Vegetable Korma** and **30-Minute Broccoli Korma** offer satisfying and straightforward curry options (Liza).
5. **Hearty Fall Salads** – Options include Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar with tahini and Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad topped with pear and halloumi (Kristan).
Thank you for reading! For those whose queries weren’t addressed this week, stay tuned for more inspiration from Recipe Matchmaker in the future.
