Three Sisters Saute with Sage Pesto

Three Sisters Saute is a traditional Native American dish that showcases a harmonious combination of three main crops: corn, beans, and squash. This dish not only reflects the agricultural practices of various Native American tribes but also holds cultural significance and a deep connection to the land.

1 POUND ZUCCHINI SQUASH, CUT INTO BITE-SIZE, OR THINLY JULIENNED

3 TABLESPOONS OLIVE OIL

1 CUP HEIRLOOM BEANS, COOKED

2 CUPS FRESH OR FROZEN SWEET CORN, THAWED AND DRAINED

1 CUP CHOPPED RIPE ROMA TOMATOES

SALT AND PEPPER

1/3 CUP SAGE PESTO

Sage Pesto

1 CUP PINE NUTS

1 1/2 CUPS FRESH SAGE LEAVES, FIRMLY PACKED

1/2 CUP FLAT-LEAF PARSLEY LEAVES

1/2 CUP OLIVE OIL

1/4 CUP GARLIC CHOPPED

1 TEASPOON SALT

1 LEMON, JUICED

1 TABLESPOON FRESH, MILD GOAT CHEESE, OPTIONAL

Instructions:

1. Rinse and trim squashes, julienne on a mandoline using the skins for a pasta effect or cut into bite-sized chunks or use whole baby squashes.

2. Heat oil in a large saute pan. Add squash and saute for 1 minute, then in succession, tossing and stirring with each addition, add beans, corn, tomatoes, then add the sage pesto stirring gently to distribute evenly.

3. Salt, only if needed, and serve immediately.

Sage Pesto

Toast pine nuts in a dry saute pan or in a 350 degree oven on a sheet pan. Combine all ingredients in food processor or blender and process until a smooth.