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Risotto, by definition, is made with rice. But other grains—like the barley in this main-course recipe—can be prepared in the same style with equally terrific results. Toasting the barley enhances its nutty flavor and keeps it from getting soft and mushy.
Makes 4 servings.
Cook asparagus in pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Drain. Transfer to bowl of ice water and cool. Drain. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Stir barley in heavy large saucepan over medium heat until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes. Transfer barley to bowl. Melt butter in same saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Add barley and stir to coat. Add 2 cups broth; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until liquid is absorbed, stirring frequently, about 7 minutes. Mix in 2 1/2 cups broth and simmer until absorbed, stirring frequently. Add 3 cups broth and simmer until barley is tender and creamy but still slightly firm to bite, stirring frequently and adding more broth if mixture is dry, about 45 minutes. Add tomatoes and asparagus; stir until heated through, about 3 minutes. Mix in cheese, arugula and lemon peel. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve these tacos with salsa, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado and black olives. Corn and black bean salad finishes the meal—except for dessert. We recommend spice cake.
Makes 4 servings.
Mix first 4 ingredients in small bowl. Place tuna in medium bowl; sprinkle with taco seasoning. Heat oil in heavy medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add tuna;sauté to desired doneness, about 3 minutes for medium. Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in sour cream mixture. Cook just until heated through, stirring frequently, about 2 minutes (do not boil).
Heat taco shells in microwave 20 seconds. Fill taco shells with tuna mixture.
*Chipotle chilies canned in a spicy tomato sauce, sometimes called adobo, are available at Latin American markets, specialty foods stores and some supermarkets.
Makes 6 servings.
Steam potatoes until tender, about 12 minutes. Cool. Place potatoes in large bowl. Add eggs, celery, onion, mayonnaise, pickles and pickle juice. Toss gently to blend. Season salad to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be made 4 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Pink grapefruit can be used if you can’t find the blood oranges.
Makes 6 servings.
Combine arugula and cheese in large bowl. Remove peel and white pith from oranges. Cut between orange membranes to release segments into bowl with arugula and cheese. Pour oil and lemon juice over; toss to blend. Season with salt and pepper.
Similar to the peanut sauce that accompanies an Indonesian satay, this would be nice with chips or crudités.
Makes about 1 1/3 cups.
Heat oil in nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add shallot, ginger and garlic; sauté until shallot is tender, about 3 minutes. Add curry powder and crushed red pepper. Stir until aromatic, about 15 seconds. Stir in 1 cup broth, peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar; whisk to blend. Simmer until mixture thickens, whisking constantly, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to bowl and cool, whisking occasionally. Cover and refrigerate 2 hours. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Keep refrigerated.)
Thin dip with more broth by tablespoonfuls if needed. Serve dip chilled or at room temperature.