If you live along the Louisiana coast, keep an eye on what is likely to be Tropical Storm Ida by the time you read this. Right now, it's likely to make landfall as a major hurricane somewhere along our coast.

So, today's note is short. The recipes I selected for the week show that I'm really ready for some cooler weather. The Sausage and White Bean Gratin comes together quickly and is one I love; I generally make the substitutions I describe below. Beans, sausage, and greens are one of my favorite combinations. The Cajun Smothered Steak from my friend Debbie is swoon-worthy; she wants hers over fluffy white rice, and my south Mississippi roots show with my preference for biscuits. The final recipe is healthier, very tasty, and can get dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.

Enjoy the recipes below, stay safe and healthy, and, as always, let me know what's on your mind. 

Best regards,

Susan Ford, Publisher and Editorial Director
Louisiana Kitchen & Culture

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In the Mail:

Sausage and White Bean Gratin

This is an easy, tasty recipe; as written, it calls for Italian sausage, but I have substituted coarsely chopped smoked sausage for more of a flavor or Louisiana. You can also swap out chopped collard or mustard greens for the spinach.

Cajun Smothered 7 Steak

This recipe is from my friend Debbie Guidry Gautier, one of the best Cajun cooks I know. Inexpensive cuts of meat are well seasoned and braised until fork-tender in a gravy; serve over hot cooked rice or with buttermilk biscuits.

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken and Asparagus with Sauce Maltaise

This is a quick recipe because the chicken bakes at high heat; the panko Parmesan coating is going to crisp up nicely. Tender asparagus is a little hard to find this time of year, so sub in broccoli or green beans if you'd like.