Root vegetables including carrots, parsnips, beets, and radishes roasted until caramelized, then simmered with escarole, navy beans, and a Parmesan rind for savory depth. A hearty, nourishing soup that is made for ladling into bowls and sharing with good company.

Imagine if a classic Italian dinner and a busy Tuesday had a very delicious baby. That’s this Chicken Milanese-ish. It’s the ultimate "fancy-casual" meal: sophisticated enough to impress a date, but simple enough to make while you’re still wearing your favorite sweatpants.

A from-scratch butter cake studded with blueberries and baked in a springform pan, served with a luscious mascarpone-honey cream infused with vanilla bean. A gorgeous, fruity dessert ideal for farewell parties or summer celebrations.

Crispy Marsala wine shells deep-fried to golden perfection, filled with sweetened ricotta studded with orange zest and shaved bittersweet chocolate. An authentic Italian pastry that's the crowning jewel of any Little Italy feast.

Mezcal shaken with orange liqueur, fresh orange juice, and homemade simple syrup, served in a salt-rimmed glass for a smoky-citrus kick. A bold, California-style cocktail that brings campfire depth and bright sunshine together in one glass.

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.

A custardy bread pudding made with rich challah and spiked with limoncello liqueur. A warm, comforting dessert with a citrusy Italian twist.

Small red potatoes are boiled until tender, then pan-fried in butter until their surfaces turn shatteringly golden, and tossed with fresh parsley, chives, and cracked pepper. These crispy-outside, creamy-inside potatoes are a classic French bistro side that pairs beautifully with the bold espresso rib-eye.

Seasoned cream cheese blended with celery, olives, Cajun seasoning, anchovy paste, and lemon zest is layered with sliced tomato and arugula on alternating white and wheat bread, then cut into neat triangles. These savory, cocktail-inspired tea sandwiches bring all the bold flavors of a Bloody Mary to an elegant finger-food format.

When summer hits, the best way to celebrate is to head outside and grill the perfect cheeseburger. Add in Valerie's special burger sauce and it's a can't miss hit.