

Acorn Squash Stuffed with Peppers and Leeks, serve as a first course or vegetable side

Butternut Squash Timbales with Warm Apples Slices, an easy winter first course or side dish

Stuffed Rainbow Chard Leaves Caprese, a fun summer first course

Zucchini Timbales with Basil and Tomato, an easy first course or add bread and a cup of soup for a light lunch

Miniature Pumpkin, Stuffed with Mushrooms, Walnuts and Bacon, at under 4 inches in diameter, these cute veggies make a great first course

Baby Pumpkins Stuffed with Creamy Spinach, great for a first course or vegetable side dish

This easy Asparagus Prosciutto Gratin works equally well as a first course or vegetable side dish.

Salad with Warm Mustard Beets and Goat Cheese, either as a first course of light lunch

I’m offering up this tasty little dish as a bribe for your opinion.

Fried Gnocchi with Creamy Mushroom Sauce - make small for a first course or double for a vegetarian main course

Acorn Squash Tart, use leftovers for an easy, but impressive first course

Baby Pumpkins Stuffed with Beef and Ricotta Cheese, a great holiday first course or light lunch

Baby Pumpkins Stuffed with Creamy Spinach, a great veggie first course or side dish

Miniature Pumpkin, Stuffed with Mushrooms, Walnuts and Bacon, serve as a holiday first course or side dish

I was reading one of my favorite cooking magazines the other night when the title of an article jumped out and slapped me in the head.