It’s a Celebration on a Theme of Melon, Cashews, and Cilantro
22 August 2008 by Jean Johnson
Our dear Cooking Beyond Measure has arrived at last, and along with her beaming mother, her aunties and uncles are loving this new member of the family. She’s such a sweetie she already has nicknames–Beyond Measure came first and now some are simply calling her Beyond.
By whatever name, she’s off for her first party today. New Seasons Market here in Portland, Oregon, is hosting–here’s what they have to say on their website:
Jean will demonstrate some measure free recipes from her new cookbook Cooking Beyond Measure. She will also be on hand to sign and talk about her new book. Free gifts for the first ten purchasers of this newly launched, distinctive cookbook. Author Jean Johnson is a Portland food writer, blogger (www.measurefreehippiecook.com) and cultural historian.
Starters on a Theme of Cilantro, Melon, and Cashews
Starters are casual and that’s how Jean approaches their making. With recipe notes from her new book, she’ll inspire you to leave your measuring cups behind and take back your kitchen.
Menu: Bob’s Golden Polenta Waffles, Cashew-Cilantro Pesto with Roasted Summer Squash and Peppers, Rolled Ups, Spiced Cilantro with Melon, Cashews, and White Chocolate. Paired with an ice cold, blended Cucumber-Melon Soup.
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Me again: The gifts are the wooden spoons pictured–aren’t they nifty?
If you can’t make the party and want to join the celebration in your own kitchen, whizzing up the Cucumber Melon Soup is a breeze.
Some light colored vinegar in the blender and a few chunks of unpeeled cucumber to get things going. Then melon–cantaloupe or honeydew make a pretty color–more cuke, salt, a fresh crack of pepper, and perhaps a few ice cubes if you plan to slurp this savory smoothie down in frosty glass.
Glass or bowl, though, I hope you pause to toast our new arrival. She really is a honey.
2 Responses to “It’s a Celebration on a Theme of Melon, Cashews, and Cilantro”
Jean,
Best of luck to you at the Cooking Beyond Measure debut this evening. I hope you sell lots of books and continue to win converts to your cause. Keep us posted about other events and media appearances.
As soon as the weather gets warmer, I am definitely making this soup. We are harvesting lots of cucumber this week.
Anne
By Anne T. on Aug 22, 2008
Anne,
Appreciate your note. I received a few privately, but you’re the main one that is hip to talking here on the blog.
Last night went exceptionally well, so hopefully we’ll have more join the community here on line as time goes by. (Although on the converts and cause part–What I really have to offer is a way–just a way and one that respects other ways people rock and roll in the kitchen. So not on a mission here. Just delighted in what I’ve discovered and wanting to share with those whom it resonates.)
Also, bragging rights: The Washington Post is doing an article in which Beyond Measure gets ink. How much ink, we aren’t sure yet, but it looks hopeful. More will be revealed soon I expect.
The Cucumber-Melon Soup, by the by, was well received last night. Refreshing. Light. Healthy. Easy. And oh so cold and slurppy.
Again, Anne, thanks for taking the time to post your comments. I’d love to hear how your cuke soup goes.
By The Cook on Aug 23, 2008