Lobster shells are simmered with sherry and vegetables to build a rich stock, then pureed with an immersion blender and finished with cream and chunks of tender lobster meat. This luxurious, velvety bisque is a sophisticated soup course perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.

Peanut butter balls studded with crunchy toffee candy pieces are dipped in double-boiler melted chocolate, leaving the signature peanut butter eye visible on top. These sweet-salty, crunchy-creamy confections are an irresistible game-day treat that disappears fast from any snack spread.

Salted slices of eggplant, yellow squash, zucchini, and tomatoes are arranged in a spiral over caramelized shallots and baked under a blanket of fontina and Parmesan. This beautiful gratin is the ideal way to showcase the last of summer's garden bounty as an elegant side dish.

A blend of cream cheese, sharp Cheddar, and hot sauce is shaped into a football, coated in toasted walnuts, and detailed with string cheese laces, served alongside homemade rosemary-thyme crackers. This playful, savory appetizer is the ultimate centerpiece for a football watch party spread.

Homemade egg fettuccine made with a stand mixer and pasta roller is tossed with pan-seared chicken, roasted broccoli, and a creamy Asiago-Parmesan sauce brightened with lemon. This from-scratch pasta dish is an impressive yet comforting weeknight dinner that rewards a little extra effort.

A buttery lime shortbread crust holds a silky mango-coconut milk-gelatin filling folded with whipped cream, topped with decorative fans of mango slices brushed in a tequila-lime glaze. This stunning, tropical tart is a showpiece dessert perfect for a festive summer gathering.

Calamari marinated in a soy-vinegar-honey-chili-ginger blend is grilled and served over marinated cucumbers atop a spiced yogurt sauce seasoned with coriander, caraway, sumac, and paprika. This vibrant, layered dish brings bold global flavors together for an elegant warm-weather appetizer or light main course.

Recipe courtesy of Valerie Bertinelli Boiled lima beans and corn are tossed with golden sauteed onions and plum tomatoes in a bright cider vinegar dressing seasoned with parsley, sage, and nutmeg. This hearty, rustic salad celebrates classic American harvest ingredients and makes a wonderful Thanksgiving side dish.

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.

A thick strawberry milkshake blended with fresh berries, jam, and strawberry ice cream is topped with strawberry whipped cream and served alongside jam-filled puff pastry twists coated in homemade strawberry sugar. This multi-component treat turns a classic milkshake into a showstopping dessert experience.