Recipe courtesy of Valerie Bertinelli Hearty kale, carrots, radishes, cucumbers, and peppers are tossed in a creamy peanut butter-vinegar-honey-sesame vinaigrette and topped with crispy roasted garbanzo beans and crunchy peanuts. This nutrient-packed salad travels well and eats like a meal, making it an ideal make-ahead lunch for road trips or busy days.

Peach iced tea and fresh lemonade stirred together and topped off with a light lager beer for a fizzy, Southern-inspired shandy. An easy, refreshing tailgate sipper that keeps the whole crew cool through the fourth quarter.

A rich, layered Italian lasagna featuring a hearty meat ragu, creamy besciamella sauce, and loads of Parmigiano-Reggiano and mozzarella. This holiday centerpiece is worth every minute of the labor of love.

Crisp coleslaw mix tossed in a creamy jalapeno ranch dressing made with Greek yogurt, buttermilk, and smoky chipotle powder. A cool, tangy side with just enough heat to complement blackened fish tacos.

Classic hard-boiled eggs filled three ways: pickles and capers, wasabi and ginger, and sesame carrot. A creative twist on the traditional deviled egg platter perfect for parties.

Boiled sweet potato wedges seasoned with chili powder and grilled until beautifully charred. A smoky, slightly sweet side dish that rounds out a summer grilling menu with ease.

Homemade egg fettuccine made with a stand mixer and pasta roller is tossed with pan-seared chicken, roasted broccoli, and a creamy Asiago-Parmesan sauce brightened with lemon. This from-scratch pasta dish is an impressive yet comforting weeknight dinner that rewards a little extra effort.

Fresh strawberries muddled with lemon juice, vodka, and elderflower liqueur, topped with sparkling club soda. A pretty, fizzy cocktail that sets a festive, welcoming mood when friends come together.

In this can’t miss dessert for one Val’s giving a sweet and sour twist to the viral Dot Cake trend by preparing a lemon mug cake right in the microwave. After letting it cool, it’s layered with tangy lemon curd, cream cheese frosting, and bright yellow sprinkles before chilling it until it is perfectly set. Give it a try - you’ll thank yourself later.