Shredded chicken marinated in a homemade roasted tomato-poblano sauce, rolled in tortillas with Monterey Jack cheese, and baked until bubbly before a final broil. A rich, saucy enchilada with deep roasted flavor that captures the heart of Southern California home cooking.

Toasted baguette slices are layered with a briny olive-red pepper-herb spread, mozzarella, provolone, mortadella, capicola, and salami, then finished with more olive spread and fresh basil. These bite-sized bruschetta capture all the bold, salty, meaty flavors of a classic New Orleans muffuletta sandwich in an easy-to-serve party appetizer.

A semi-homemade lemon cake with a ricotta-mascarpone filling that magically switches layers during baking, topped with a creamy mascarpone-pudding frosting. A bright, tangy showstopper that proves when life gives you lemons, you bake something wonderful.

A classic Italian appetizer featuring ripe heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, and kalamata olives piled high on grilled bread. This bruschetta is Valerie's go-to starter for entertaining close friends.

Pan-fried crab cakes packed with jumbo lump crab, andouille sausage, and Fresno chile, served on toasted brioche buns with a fresh corn coleslaw. A fun, hand-held bite that turns movie night at home into something truly special.

A twist on the classic Moscow mule featuring fresh lemon juice and homemade limoncello, topped with spicy ginger beer. A fizzy, citrus-forward cocktail with a limoncello kick that brightens any gathering.

Hand-ground fresh salmon patties seasoned with Dijon, jalapeno, lemon zest, and herbs, grilled and served on buns with all the fixings. A lighter, flavorful alternative to beef burgers that's ideal for closing out grilling season.

A hearty Italian soup of pasta and beans with a soffritto base of onion, celery, and carrot. A warming one-pot meal that's pure comfort for the whole family.

Steeped hibiscus-lavender tea is mixed with vodka, honey simple syrup, and lemon, then topped with prosecco and served over ice cubes frozen with sprigs of fresh lavender. This gorgeous, ruby-hued punch is as visually stunning as it is refreshing, making it an unforgettable signature drink for a summer patio party.

Ready for a "fish sammie" that packs a punch? Val whips up a gourmet-style meal for one, featuring a perfectly sizzled tilapia fillet and a hit of spicy chili crisp! It’s a kitchen adventure filled with quick flips, zesty flavors, and a final taste test that’s so good, even her cat wants a bite!