ginger scented rice

there is something comforting to me about sticky short grained rice. i rinse my rice thoroughly and then let it soak for about an hour. this allows the rice to puff slightly and makes it even stickier when cooked. this is the perfect compliment to the quick pickled veggies and the sesame seared ahi tuna.

ingredients:
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger (you can use a microplane or a japanese ginger grater)
1.5 cups short-grained white rice
1.5 cups water
toasted sesame seeds

special equipment:
rice cooker

directions:
mix the ginger and water together and then add in the rice. set the rice cooker and let it do its thing. once the rice is cooked, top it with some toasted sesame seeds.

ginger garlic asparagus

asparagus is a favorite in our household. we often eat it more than once a week. in fact, when i'm not sure which type of vegetable to make, or what to add to a dish, the recommendation is almost always "asparagus!"

this is a delicious side for any weeknight meal. it's easy to prepare, and quick to cook. it pairs well with asian flavored meals because of the ginger and garlic, but really it would be good with just about anything.

ingredients:
one bunch of asparagus, cleaned and ends trimmed
one tablespoon of minced garlic
one tablespoon of minced ginger
salt
olive oil

directions:
preheat oven to 415 degrees.

toss the asparagus with the garlic, ginger, and olive oil (about one tablespoon, just enough to coat) and then place on a baking sheet. sprinkle with salt and pop in the oven. remove in 15 minutes...enjoy!

notes:
like i said, simple, right? also full of nutrients. for another weeknight option, prepare this and while it's cooking cook some whole wheat pasta and shred some chicken from a pre-cooked chicken from the store. toss it all together with some of the pasta water and enjoy!