Signature Mac and Cheese

The Chef: Colleen

The Menu: Heaping helpings of the absolute best freaking mac 'n' cheese in the world. But you know, no big deal. Colleen perfectly paired her signature dish with a light, fresh dose of greens. Yes, we weren't at all mad that Colleen decided to bust out a casserole dish of VN's favorite Macaroni and Cheese, complete with veggie-filled, homemade cheese sauce—no nutritional yeast required. This mouthwatering main course is guaranteed crowd pleaser, so lets just say that everybody had seconds. Then thirds. Also maybe fifths. To round out our hearty lunch Colleen prepared a lovely salad of spinach, mixed greens, avocado, and halved cherry tomatoes marinated in a lemon and olive oil vinaigrette.

The Goods: In addition to an excellent meal, we were also lucky enough to have an excellent lunch guest, Jason Mark, the editor of Earth Island Journal. We couldn't have been more delighted to dine with Jason and discuss the upcoming Lyman vs. Niman debate happening Thursday, May 20, at The David Brower Center in Berkley, Calif., sponsored by VN and Earth Island Institute. The sold-out event brings together former cattle rancher turned vegan Howard Lyman and Marin rancher Nicolette Niman for a discussion about the environmental impact and sustainability of eating meat. We can't wait to report back on what promises to be a spirited, stirring conversation about the politics of food.