A quick pickle is a shortcut to flavor, a little bit of bite and texture in a jar. Never use aluminum bowls or utensils when pickling; the acid reacts to the metal.
The key is to char the ingredients under the broiler for a roasty flavor, then blitz it in batches for a texture that's right in between smooth and chunky.
The following method is our favorite way to cook long-grain rice-we love the consistency it yields. We learned the technique from some of our Latino and Louisianian colleagues.
If you only have time for a dessert after the kids are in bed, try something elegant and expedient, like poached pears. This recipe works best with pink champagne.