Even though there may be early frosts in October in some of the more northerly regions, broccoli is a sturdy vegetable.

Michael's soups were straightforward versions of the recipes we had on file, sturdy vegetable or navy bean, things he could do with a minimum of fuss.

Bill Telepan of Judson Grill prefers the seasonal approach, because he thinks sturdy vegetables are better suited to cold weather.

AUTUMN produce counters and farm stands brimming with bright but sturdy vegetables offer inspiration for risotto.

The same applies to sturdy vegetables like green beans, carrots, broccoli, snow peas and celery.

Raštan - a slightly bitter, sturdy dark-green vegetable from the cabbage family, similar to Italian cavolo nero, it has been grown in the region for over 2,000 years.

But sturdy vegetables like carrots, parsnips, beets and celeriac can sustain many a menu, especially if some imagination is used in the preparation.

Oven-roasting a whole snapper at a low temperature over a bed of sturdy, aromatic vegetables like fennel, onion and carrots is another excellent way to ease into the whole fish fetish.