Tender beef and pork meatballs seasoned with oregano, garlic, and Pecorino Romano, simmered in a rich tomato-basil sauce and served over spaghetti. A beloved family recipe that brings the heart of Little Italy straight to the dinner table.

Chicken bones are simmered low and slow for an hour and a half with aromatic vegetables, peppercorns, and bay leaves, then strained into a clear, golden broth. This foundational kitchen staple delivers a depth of flavor that no store-bought version can match, serving as the backbone for soups, sauces, and braises.

Lemonade frozen with fresh blueberries in ice cube trays is blended with additional chilled lemonade into a thick, slushy, purple-swirled drink. This frosty, kid-friendly refresher captures the spirit of a summer fair lemonade stand with a burst of blueberry in every icy sip.

This is the sandwich I grew up on and it still hits exactly the same way. Prosciutto, hot capicola, Genoa salami, and provolone layered onto ciabatta with plum tomatoes, shredded lettuce, red onion, and pickled pepperoncini — all drizzled with a simple red wine vinegar dressing. Wrapped in wax paper and sliced in half the way a proper hero should be. This is not just a sandwich. This is a love letter to my mom.

A buttery coconut-almond shortbread crust is blind-baked until golden, filled with silky microwave lemon curd, and topped with piped whipped cream and toasted coconut. The nutty, tropical crust gives this classic lemon tart an unexpected twist that delights the fellow cooks in the kitchen.

Spiralized zucchini noodles are briefly sauteed in garlic oil and tossed with dried ciabatta cubes, salted ripe tomatoes, shallot, fresh basil, and a balsamic vinaigrette. This lighter spin on the Tuscan bread salad swaps out heavy pasta for fresh zoodles while keeping all the classic panzanella charm.

This is a mid-week can't miss meal features a Valerie fave ingredient, chicken thighs, and transforms them into the most delectable Chicken Parm you'll ever eat.

Shrimp seasoned with coriander and red pepper flakes are broiled alongside colorful peppers until charred, then drizzled with a vibrant parsley-vinegar-oregano chimichurri. This quick, boldly flavored dish makes an impressive party-ready appetizer or light main that comes together in minutes under the broiler.

Bittersweet and Mexican chocolate are melted together with warm cream to create a smooth, spiced fondue served alongside marshmallows, sprinkles, chopped nuts, and fresh fruit for dipping. This interactive dessert station turns a weeknight dinner into a fun family activity that kids can customize themselves.

A chilled, creamy cucumber soup blended with Greek yogurt, sour cream, mint, and garlic. Garnished with diced cucumber, toasted almonds, and a swirl of sour cream for a refreshing starter.