Sauteed garlic, onions, and jalapenos simmered with black beans, cumin, and coriander, then partially blended for a thick, rustic texture. A warming, Cuban-inspired soup that delivers bold spice and creamy depth in every spoonful.

A four-layer cake made with grated zucchini, brown sugar, fresh ginger, cinnamon, and cloves is frosted between the layers only with a ginger cream cheese frosting studded with crystallized ginger. This striking naked cake puts a bold, spicy twist on the classic zucchini cake, letting the rustic layers and pops of candied ginger take center stage.

Grilled bread is layered with mashed avocado mixed with Fresno chile, drizzled with honey labne, and crowned with za'atar-roasted purple cauliflower florets. This stunning, multi-textured toast combines creamy, tangy, spicy, and earthy flavors in every colorful, Instagram-worthy bite.

Recipe courtesy of Valerie Bertinelli Peppery baby arugula, crisp Belgian endives, and sliced white mushrooms are tossed in a bright Champagne vinegar-Dijon vinaigrette with minced shallots and fresh chives. This lilight, elegant salad provides a refreshing contrast to a richly flavored chicken dinner.

Halved radicchio and shrimp charred on the grill until smoky and tender, drizzled with a sweet honey-balsamic vinaigrette. A warm, smoky salad with beautiful grill marks that bridges the gap between light lunch and hearty grilled fare.

Shredded rotisserie chicken is simmered in a smoky pureed sauce of chipotle peppers, tomatoes, and cumin until richly coated, then served in charred tortillas with Cotija, cilantro, and pickled onions. This streamlined tinga uses store-bought rotisserie chicken to deliver big, authentic Mexican flavor on a weeknight timeline.

A rich butterscotch cake layered with brown sugar caramel and cream. A decadent homemade dessert that's a labor of love.

A classic pumpkin pie with a homemade flaky crust and warmly spiced pumpkin custard filling. A Thanksgiving staple made entirely from scratch.

Chicken breasts poached in stock are shredded and simmered with white beans partially blended for body, green chiles, ancho chile powder, cumin, and coriander, then served with extensive toppings. This creamy, mild chili is a crowd-pleasing game-day staple that invites everyone to customize their bowl.

Recipe courtesy of Valerie Bertinelli Tender Bibb lettuce, ripe tomatoes, sliced onions, and briny olives are drizzled with a creamy mayo-vinegar-olive oil vinaigrette brightened with fresh parsley. This simple, old-fashioned salad is the perfect cool counterpoint to a bowl of rich, spiced chili.