SNOW PEA TENDRIL RECIPES

Steps:

• If the garlic has formed cloves, separate them and remove the thick shells from the tender cloves. If it has not formed cloves, just remove the outside layers. Chop coarsely. You should have about 1/4 cup chopped green garlic. If using the pea shoots, sort through and discard any budding flowers or leaves and the thin ends with the tendrils. Wash thoroughly.
• Heat the oil over medium heat in a large, heavy lidded skillet, and add the olive oil. Add the scallions, green garlic and a generous pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, until tender, two to four minutes. Working in batches, add the spinach or pea shoots and salt to taste. Turn up the heat, and toss with tongs until the spinach or pea shoots wilt enough to allow room for another batch. If using pea shoots, cover and steam two to four minutes. Spinach does not require covering; just toss in the pan until it wilts and is tender and fragrant. Add the parsley and mint or tarragon, season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve with brown rice or other grains of your choice.

Steps:

• Cook bacon in a skillet over medium-high until crisp, 7 to 9 minutes. Drain on paper towels; cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces.
• In a bowl, combine shallot and vinegar; let stand 15 minutes. Whisk in oil and 2 tablespoons mint; season with coarse salt and pepper.
• Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon coarse salt and snap peas. Return to a boil, then cook just until tender, about 45 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a colander and run under cold water; drain well and slice crosswise on the bias.
• Add potatoes to boiling water; return to a boil, then reduce heat and vigorously simmer until tender, 12 to 14 minutes. Drain; toss potatoes with 3 tablespoons dressing. Spread on a baking sheet and let cool completely, about 30 minutes.
• In a bowl, toss together potatoes, peas, pea tendrils and flowers, remaining 4 tablespoons mint, and bacon, then toss with about 1/4 cup dressing. Serve, garnished with tiny mint leaves and sprinkled with flaky salt.