This Is TASTE 679: Hetty Lui McKinnon Has a Salad Superpower
16 snips
Oct 31, 2025 Hetty Lui McKinnon, a celebrated recipe developer and author of 'Linger,' shares her insights into plant-based cooking and the art of salad-making. She reveals the magic behind her viral tomato and dumpling salad and discusses her unique approach to writing recipes. Joining her is Toni Chapman, a home cook known for her comforting Afro-Latina dishes. Toni talks about her childhood food memories and how she blends cultural flavors in her cooking, including an adaptation of New York-style Chinese takeout.
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Reframe Vegetarianism As 'More', Not Less
- Labeling food as 'vegetarian' can limit audience reach because many assume it's about deprivation.
- Hetty positions vegetarian cooking as 'more'—more flavor, texture, and thought—to broaden appeal.
Cookbook Built From Real Dinner Parties
- Hetty tested Linger by hosting monthly salads and photographing dishes right before guests arrived.
- She wrote and refined recipes in real time with immediate feedback from her community lunches.
Layer Salads To Avoid Sogginess
- Layer salads with dressing at the bottom and heartiest ingredients nearest the dressing.
- Leave delicate herbs and leaves on top and toss just before serving to avoid sogginess.
