Dried chiles are toasted, rehydrated, and pureed with garlic, onion, oregano, and cumin to make a rich red sauce for simmered and shredded chicken, which is wrapped in fluffy lard-beaten masa dough, folded into corn husks, and steamed until tender. These authentic homemade tamales are a labor of love that brings family and friends together around a deeply flavorful Mexican tradition.

Brussels sprouts halved and quartered, then cooked with cubed pancetta until the sprouts are tender and the pancetta is crispy and golden. A simple, savory side dish that pairs salty Italian pancetta with earthy sprouts for an effortless crowd-pleaser.

Whole milk is gently simmered with cinnamon sticks and rich Mexican chocolate until thick and fragrant, then ladled into mugs and topped with mini marshmallows. This warming, spiced hot chocolate brings the cozy feeling of a campfire indoors without ever stepping outside.

Three progressively lighter pink cake layers are baked individually, stacked with strawberry jam between them, cut into tiny squares, and topped with piped white chocolate frosting and crushed freeze-dried strawberries. These stunning, bite-sized confections showcase a beautiful gradient of color and make an eye-catching addition to an elegant dessert spread.

A bone-in ham slow-roasted at 325 degrees until tender, then brushed with a glossy honey-mustard-brown sugar glaze and finished at 375 degrees until lacquered and golden. A grand, centerpiece-worthy roast that commands the table at any dinner fit for royalty.

Buttery toffee studded with toasted hazelnuts and finished with flaky sea salt. A sweet-salty confection perfect for gifting to neighbors.

This recipe for Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies is Val and Sophie's sophisticated take on the ultimate classic. By swapping standard semi-sweet chips for dark chocolate and adding a generous two tablespoons of fresh orange zest, she transforms a childhood favorite into a bright, "grown-up" treat that balances rich cocoa with citrusy aromatics.

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

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.

Seasoned ground turkey patties spiked with ginger and cayenne, baked with a warm cranberry glaze and served on soft rolls with peppery arugula. A sweet-savory slider that brings a festive twist to any casual happy hour gathering.