This recipe is a complete original of mine inspired by the coolest shaped pasta rings that will remind people of certain age of canned Spaghetti O’s. This shape is a bit hard to find but well worth the fun and flavor. It is 100% vegetarian and vegan except for any eggs used in making the dried pasta. Perfect summer noshing.

This updated classic by Tyler Florence in his book, “Tyler’s Ultimate” has changed my mind about Mac & Cheese. The additional of peas adds a whole new twist that completely elevates the dish leaving the traditional version feeling lackluster to me.

This pasta dish is one of the greatest vegetarian versions of a carnivore classic. Mushroom step up once again to offer a very meaty substitute for the protein. Fat Papadelle noodles add to the richness.

This vegetarian dish is so impressive and satisfying that it can be a main dish on its own or pair with another protein on the grill for feeding large summer gatherings. It is colorful, textural and grows exponentially as you get creative adding different veggies. The flavor that comes with the grilling char and lemony sauce is addictive.

This simple salad uses just three ingredients that are readily fresh and available in your produce section. I often substitute butter lettuce or little gems for the watercress but the other two key parts are shaved fennel an leeks. I also shave a bit of red radishes in mostly for color. Use your favorite vinaigrette or just really good extra virgin olive oil. A mandolin is the perfect tool for shaving thin.

A crowd dazzling vegetarian dish that is so satisfying that it can be the centerpiece and main of a large gathering. Nobody will miss the protein.