Thinly sliced cucumbers marinated in rice vinegar and soy sauce with a touch of sugar. A cool, refreshing Asian-inspired side salad.

A roasted tomato panzanella is one of those effortlessly rustic dishes I love. Crispy golden bread soaking up sweet, jammy tomatoes, briny olives, and a bright vinaigrette for the perfect bite every time.

Crisp escarole and Treviso radicchio are tossed with toasted almonds, fresh basil, and mint in a honey-caramelized Meyer lemon vinaigrette, then finished with charred cherry tomatoes and shaved Parmesan. This sophisticated, bittersweet salad balances bright citrus and smoky charred tomatoes for an elegant first course.

Classic peanut butter cookies are decorated with white candy melts, marshmallow slices, mini chocolate chips, peanut butter cup hats, and colorful sprinkles to look like adorable melted snowmen. These playful, whimsical cookies are a guaranteed hit at holiday cookie swaps and a fun baking project for kids and adults alike.

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.

A deeply flavorful Louisiana gumbo built on a dark roux with andouille and smoked sausage, okra, tomatoes, and shredded rotisserie chicken. Served over rice with scallions and hot sauce.

Crisp-tender green beans tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette with minced shallots. A simple, flavorful side dish from Tom's kitchen.

A vibrant brunch frittata loaded with asparagus, cherry tomatoes, goat cheese, and fresh herbs. Finished under the broiler for a golden top and served straight from the skillet.

Broccoli rabe roasted with cherry tomatoes and sliced shallots until crisp-tender. A quick, nutritious Italian side dish with bold, slightly bitter flavor.