Savory Swiss chard tart
Savory Swiss chard tart

Often served at a Christmas or Easter brunch, this savory tart is delicious warm or cold. Chef Stacey Hughes says she prefers it “a little bit warmed up with a nice green salad.”

Tuscan bean soup
Tuscan bean soup

Chef Stacey Hughes says crusty bread is the ideal accompaniment to this hearty soup. “There’s nothing I like more than a warm baguette with ice cold butter—salted butter and Maldon sea salt flakes.”

Pork adobo bahn mi sandwich
Pork adobo bahn mi sandwich

There are plenty of delicious versions of a bahn mi sandwich, but which one is best? Try this and you may have your answer!

Savory grains with poached egg 
Savory grains with poached egg 

Shimeji mushrooms have a nutty, umami flavor and a slightly crunchy texture. Here, they’re combined with whole grains, poached eggs and a savory broth to create a light but satisfying meal. 

Ling cod and shellfish stew
Ling cod and shellfish stew

This hearty stew is loaded with the flavors of the ocean—ling cod, clams, mussels and shrimp. Serve with grilled bread and lemon wedges.

Squash lasagna
Squash lasagna

“This is a hearty vegetarian main course that can be served with a salad for any fall gathering or just for your family,” says cookbook author Erin Gleeson, noting that butternut squash could be easily substituted for the acorn squash.

Sweet potato chowder
Sweet potato chowder

“The fun part here is the pomegranate seeds on top,” cookbook author Erin Gleeson says. For easy, casual entertaining, she often serves the chowder in mugs around the fire pit.

Mussels fra diavolo
Mussels fra diavolo

Fra diavolo is a fiery Italian sauce that gets an extra kick of heat from a generous addition of red pepper flakes. Jason Baker's recipe gives you the option to go tame or spicy.

Lime and ginger prawns
Lime and ginger grilled Pacific spotted prawns

The horseradish in the prawn marinade gives it a little kick, along with the garlic and ginger. The pineapple juice in the cilantro-garlic butter adds a sweet and tangy aspect. Ideal accompaniments include quinoa and fresh asparagus.

Grilled rack of lamb
Grilled rack of lamb with cherry, balsamic vinegar and rosemary glaze

A rich and tangy glaze complements this tender lamb that is available only once a year. Great served with seasonal vegetables and roasted, grilled or mashed potatoes. Chef's tip: "A good quality veal or beef stock is a must."