Simple Spring Sides

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Tuscany-based food writer Lori Zimring De Mori suggested we make this dish only with fresh young favas whose skins are so thin and tender that they don't need peeling. Look for smaller unblemished fava pods and snap a few open to see whether the beans are small and thin skinned. See the recipe for Fava and Pecorino Salad»

Crisp, spicy radishes get a dose of toasty warmth from sesame oil in this quick pickle, brightened with scallions and sesame seeds.

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Ranch dressing was originally sold by its inventor, Steve Henson, as a seasoning packet that contained, among other ingredients, dehydrated garlic, dehydrated onion, black pepper, and dried parsley; all cooks had to do was add mayonnaise and buttermilk. Our version uses fresh herbs, but fresh garlic and onion won't do: only the dried powders produce this dressing's characteristic flavor. See the recipe for Watercress Salad with Ranch Dressing»

Espàrrecs Amb Vinagreta (Catalan Asparagus Vinaigrette)

A deceptively simple vinaigrette of olive oil, white wine vinegar, chopped parsley, and crushed tomato transforms simple steamed asparagus into a sumptuous and well-turned-out dish—exactly what a great dressing should do.

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In Sicily, this salad is traditionally prepared with wild chicory, a slightly peppery, tender-leafed green. Substitute with arugula if you can't find wild chicory. See the recipe for Sicilian Fennel Salad with Oranges, Arugula, and Black Olives »