Three Things

Memorial Day ideas, an easy umami-packed vegetarian dinner, and why we should all be English majors

Greetings eaters and readers! My younger daughter, Abby, is home from her semester abroad, and I’m telling you this not only because, well, because I’m thrilled that she’s home — but because her presence almost always translates into exponentially better newsletters, so you are in fact the main beneficiary here. Abby is an enthusiast about everything, but particularly food, and has extremely strong opinions about the dinner line-up for her first week home. (OK, fine, everyday.) If this sounds like a lot of pressure, let me assure you it is the most helpful thing in the world for someone to wake up, wander into the living room still in their pajamas and announce, “You know what we should have for dinner tonight? Your Caesar Salad with that amazing dressing.” What else does she suggest? Veggie Burgers (been a while!); Smash Burgers, cooked over steamed white onions, Oklahoma-style; Tomato Soup and a Big Salad; Braised Turkey Meatballs with Polenta, the Refried Black Bean Tostadas and Pi…