Shrimp and lump crab are tossed with mayo, diced radishes, celery, lemon, and cayenne, then spooned into ripe avocado halves set on a bed of peppery arugula. This elegant, retro-chic appetizer showcases sweet shellfish and creamy avocado in a presentation that feels both timeless and celebratory.

Fresh jalapeno strips dipped in buttermilk batter and fried until golden and crispy, served with a creamy roasted garlic ranch dipping sauce. A fiery, crunchy bar snack that kicks off happy hour with serious heat and flavor.

Ground turkey simmered with tomato paste, allspice, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, cloves, vinegar, Worcestershire, and a touch of chocolate is ladled over spaghetti and topped with shredded Cheddar and green onions in true Cincinnati style. This warmly spiced, unconventional chili is a beloved Ohio comfort food tradition that converts skeptics with every bite.

A velvety avgolemono-style soup with orzo and shredded chicken in a rich egg-lemon broth, garnished with fresh dill. A comforting, silky Greek classic that warms the soul with bright citrus flavor in every spoonful.

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.

Great Northern beans baked low and slow with bacon, dark brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. A sweet and tangy barbecue side dish that punches well above its budget-friendly price tag.

A sophisticated cocktail combining gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and fresh orange juice, stirred and strained over ice. Garnished with an orange peel for a citrusy take on the classic Negroni.

A fiery penne pasta tossed in a quick-simmered tomato sauce with garlic and red chile flakes. Finished with fresh basil and shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano for a bold weeknight dinner.

Thin-sliced russet potatoes are deep-fried at 300°F until shatteringly crisp, then dusted with a homemade BBQ seasoning blend of paprika, confectioners' sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. These addictive chips blow store-bought versions away and make the perfect snack for a fun gathering with friends.

A classic gin martini garnished with Roquefort-stuffed green olives. A sophisticated cocktail that's the definition of indulgence.