Red wine is stirred with brandy, Campari, sugar, and a generous tumble of fresh strawberries, oranges, apple, and lime, then topped with sparkling water. The Campari adds a sophisticated bitter edge that elevates this pitcher cocktail beyond the usual fruity sangria, making it ideal for a lively gathering.

Toasted coriander and cumin seeds are blended with fresh herbs, paprika, garlic, and lemon into a vibrant North African chermoula, half used as a marinade and half reserved as a finishing sauce for skirt steak grilled three minutes per side. This boldly spiced, herbaceous steak is a stunning patio party centerpiece that delivers layers of toasty, bright flavor in every charred slice.

A light, icy dessert made from sugar syrup steeped with fresh basil and brightened with lemon juice. A refreshing palate cleanser that caps off a summer barbecue without breaking the bank.

A yeasted dough made with a blend of bread and all-purpose flour is dimpled by hand and topped with sliced onion, briny green olives, rosemary sprigs, and flaky sea salt, then baked at 425°F until golden. This pillowy, aromatic focaccia serves as a beautiful edible centerpiece and bread course for the birthday celebration.

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.

Val and Sophie make a fun, melty, cheese-y twist on the old-school ham and cheese sandwich.

This never-miss pot roast turns into tender, garlicky, wine-kissed comfort food while you go live your life. It smells incredible, tastes even better, and makes dinner feel like a big warm hug.

Homemade pizza dough made with a blend of all-purpose, whole-wheat, and bread flours, grilled until perfectly charred. A versatile base ready for your favorite toppings at a fun pizza party.

A stunning tri-colored layered cookie made with almond paste dough tinted red, green, and yellow, filled with raspberry jam and apricot preserves. Topped with melted dark chocolate for a show-stopping holiday treat.

Tri-tip is marinated for two and a half hours in a full bottle of red wine with fresh herbs, orange, and honey-Dijon, then grilled to medium-rare and served with the strained marinade reduced into a rich, glossy sauce. This boldly flavored, wine-soaked steak is a California grilling tradition that delivers deep, herbaceous complexity in every perfectly pink slice.