Fresh-Pressed Olive Oil Club

Late Summer Fruit Salad

Stone fruit—nectarines, peaches, and plums—are the stars of this juicy dessert, with figs, berries, and a sweet and citrusy dressing in supporting roles. This salad, high in antioxidants, also makes a delicious breakfast

Ingredients

  • 2 nectarines
  • 2 plums
  • 2 peaches
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple balsamic vinegar 
  • 1 tablespoon local honey 
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime (see “Quick Kitchen Nugget” in newsletter)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped spearmint leaves 
  • 2 fresh figs, quartered
  • 1 cup whole blackberries, rinsed and patted dry

Directions

Pit and section the stone fruit, then place in a large serving bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and honey. Whisk in the lime juice, zest, and mint. Pour the dressing over the fruit in the bowl and toss gently. Allow the juices and the dressing to meld for 30 minutes. Just before serving, arrange the figs and blackberries on top of the stone fruit.

Yields 4 servings

Curried Cauliflower

This is one of the easiest side dishes in my repertoire. Because curry powder is a blend of nearly a dozen spices or more (some of which are fairly exotic), feel free to use your favorite pre-packaged curry powder.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt (kosher or sea)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large head cauliflower, trimmed, cored, and cut into bite-size florets
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley leaves

Directions

Step 1

Heat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed sheet pan with foil or parchment paper for easier clean-up.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the olive oil. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and gently toss with your hands to evenly coat each floret with the spices and oil. (We recommend wearing food-safe disposable gloves to avoid staining your hands.) Tip onto the prepared sheet pan and spread out in a single layer.

Step 3

Roast the cauliflower for 20 to 25 minutes, or until tender-crisp and browned in spots, turning halfway through the cooking time. Transfer to a platter or bowl and top with the cilantro. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serves 4 to 6

Crispy Potatoes

The only trick to this delicious side dish is to not crowd the potatoes—you’ll get better browning and crisping if you leave some space between the slices. Use two rimmed sheet pans if needed.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds red potatoes, scrubbed and dried
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt, more for serving
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
  • 6 sprigs fresh oregano
  • 1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut the potatoes into 1/4-inch slices and place in a large bowl. Toss with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic. Spread
out the slices in single layers on rimmed sheet pans. Roast for 30 minutes, flip over the potatoes, and roast for another 30 minutes or until done to your liking. Sprinkle with more salt, the oregano, and the parsley before plating.

Serves 4-6