Spunky Cajun seasoning, velvety black beans and colorful vegetables keep this Cajun-Seasoned Vegetarian Gumbo lively, loaded and interesting. There's plenty of saucy liquid to flavor accompanying rice.
We use crisp radishes for a bit of crunch and spiciness in this Crab Salad Sandwich. You can also use chopped fennel, celery, thinly sliced fresh apple, or matchsticks of jicama as alternatives.
Bring out the subtle, earthy flavor of pork tenderloin with dried fruits and apple juice. The port in the sauce adds extra sweetness that balances the kick of the kick of the Dijon mustard. Best of all, the pork cooks in about six minutes.
I made this on a whim one Sunday morning when friends called and said they planned to drop by in the afternoon. It makes a lot, and I was able to serve our friends and the neighbors a casual supper. The seasonings and green chilies give the meat a spicy kick and taste fantastic with cool sour cream and fresh salsa.
This bark makes a lovely holiday gift from the kitchen. Fill a plate or cup with candy, then gather up clear cellophane around it and tie with red and green ribbons. —Susan Wacek, Pleasanton, California
