Meatless

Squash and zucchini pancakes

Even carnivores will appreciate this side dish (or snack) for its subtle garlicky and herby tones, and its rich butter flavor. The pancakes are made with grated squash, zucchini, panko, salt, thyme and garlic, and fried in a mixture of butter and olive oil until both sides are golden brown and crisp.

Cook time: 12

Servings: 6 pancakes

Shiitake and broccoli in soy garlic sauce

Parboiled shiitake and broccoli florets are tossed in soy garlic sauce thickened with potato starch. The addition of mirin makes this side dish subtly sweet.

Cook time: 5

Servings: 3 people

Mushroom and rice curry

A one-pot and one-bowl meal for non-meat eaters, or a side dish for omnivores (it's especially good with grilled meat or chicken).

Cook time: 30

Servings: 6 people

Shiitake and cherry tomato salad

A fusion of two of my favorite Asian cuisines. Shiitake, the main ingredient, is associated with Japanese cuisine. But the dressing is pure Vietnamese.

Cook time: 10

Servings: 4 people

Easy pepper garlic mushrooms

The sweeteness bell peppers, the tang of lime juice, the richness of butter, and the incomparable flavor and aroma of garlic are soaked up by button mushrooms in this easy appetizer or side dish.

Cook time: 10

Servings: 4 people

Sweet chili mushrooms and tofu

Fried tofu and mushrooms are tossed in sweet chili sauce infused with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. A delighful appetizer or side dish, or a meatless main dish.

Cook time: 20

Servings: 2 people