Puff pastry is spread with fig jam and grated Manchego cheese, cut into strips, twisted into elegant straws, egg-washed, and baked at 400 degrees until flaky and golden. These sweet-savory, crunchy pastry straws make a stunning yet effortless appetizer that pairs beautifully with cocktails and conversation.

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

Bone-in chicken breasts and thighs are seared golden, then simmered in a bold sauce of ponzu, sambal, brown sugar, fish sauce, crushed tomatoes, lemongrass, and galangal, and served over fragrant cilantro basmati rice. This Southeast Asian-inspired braise delivers layers of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavor in a deeply comforting one-pot dinner.

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.

Crispy mini phyllo shells filled with lemon-scented mascarpone cream and topped with a warm cinnamon blueberry compote. A dainty, no-bake dessert perfect for a quiet evening of solo indulgence.

Buttery slice-and-bake cookies studded with dried cherries and a subtle kick of white pepper, shaped into logs and chilled overnight before slicing. A surprising sweet-spicy combination that makes for an unexpected and delightful wine club dessert.

This is the sandwich I grew up on and it still hits exactly the same way. Prosciutto, hot capicola, Genoa salami, and provolone layered onto ciabatta with plum tomatoes, shredded lettuce, red onion, and pickled pepperoncini — all drizzled with a simple red wine vinegar dressing. Wrapped in wax paper and sliced in half the way a proper hero should be. This is not just a sandwich. This is a love letter to my mom.

Homemade rhubarb syrup is combined with elderflower liqueur and topped with chilled prosecco over ice for a blush-pink, effervescent cocktail. This elegant, seasonal spritz is a refreshing way to welcome spring and makes a beautiful signature drink for a garden party.

A festive holiday salad of mixed greens and romaine tossed in a creamy Champagne vinaigrette. Topped with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, pine nuts, and sliced basil.

On Friday, March 27 at 6pm ET Val and Sophie did a live cook-along with this wonderful take on Beef and Broccoli.