Seared scallops are one of those dishes that qualify has simple and elegant at the same time. They’re easy enough for a weeknight, but special enough for a romantic anniversary or Valentine’s Day dinner. They sear for just 2 minutes on each side, making them quick, too. The other benefit: they’re a blank canvas, begging for a sauce to add interest—or whatever global spin you like.
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Beet and Polenta Cakes with Faux Aioli
Top these beautiful cakes with Vanessa Seder’s Faux Aioli.
Julia Turshen’s Spicy Tandoori Cauliflower with Minted Yogurt
The yogurt and assertive spice combination give the cauliflower an enormous depth of flavor and a really rich texture. For a complete meal, serve this with white or brown rice, quinoa, or warm flatbread and a platter of sliced cucumbers that you’ve drizzled with lemon juice and sprinkled with salt.
Julia Turshen’s Red Lentil Soup with Coconut + Cilantro
This soup is the easiest (and fastest!) thing ever and so incredibly satisfying, not to mention a very affordable way to serve a crowd.
Jacques Pépin’s Sausage, Potatoes, Onions, and Mushrooms en Papillote
This is a great dish to make for a party, as it can be assembled ahead, even the day before, and then placed in the oven an hour before serving.
Eggplant Rounds with Goat Cheese and Herb Salsa
This light dish, perfectly portioned and wonderfully herbaceous, works as a fresh appetizer, starter, or alongside a grilled steak, pork chop, or steak.
