Green and red leaf lettuce, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion are tossed in a bright Champagne vinegar-Dijon vinaigrette. This crisp, refreshing salad provides a light counterpoint to heavier game-day fare.

Cremini mushrooms sauteed until deeply golden with garlic and baby spinach, finished with a splash of balsamic vinegar. A simple, earthy side dish that rounds out any holiday spread with wholesome green goodness.

A spice cake mix is layered with a ricotta-mascarpone filling that magically switches positions during baking, then topped with a pumpkin spice pudding-mascarpone frosting. This easy yet impressive cake captures all the warm spice flavors of fall and makes a delightful alternative to traditional pumpkin pie.

Val and Sophie's easy to make guacamole recipe.

A fiery penne pasta tossed in a quick-simmered tomato sauce with garlic and red chile flakes. Finished with fresh basil and shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano for a bold weeknight dinner.

Chicken wings baked at high heat are tossed in a tequila-lime-agave sauce and broiled until crisp, then served with a cool, spicy avocado crema for dipping. These sticky, tangy wings with their creamy dipping sauce are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any fiesta-themed party.

Crispy baked kale chips prepared three ways: classic with olive oil, Italian-style with Parmesan and pine nuts, and seaside spice with Old Bay and cayenne. A healthy, crunchy snack with something for everyone.

A traditional Tuscan bread salad with crusty cubes, ripe tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. A rustic Italian classic that celebrates summer produce.

Fragrant chai tea steeped in water and almond milk, spiked with spiced rum and agave, and topped with whipped cream. A warming, spirit-laced drink that makes staying indoors feel like the best plan imaginable.

Thick bologna rounds are pan-fried in butter until caramelized, then served on toast rounds with mustard and tangy quick-pickled squash in a vinegar-dill brine. These crispy, nostalgic bites elevate a Midwestern childhood favorite into a fun party appetizer.