A classic Roman misticanza of mixed bitter greens including chicory, escarole, endive, frisee, and radicchio is tossed with fresh herbs and radishes in a shallot-red wine vinaigrette. This sophisticated salad provides an elegant, palate-cleansing start to a special birthday dinner.

Crispy Marsala wine shells deep-fried to golden perfection, filled with sweetened ricotta studded with orange zest and shaved bittersweet chocolate. An authentic Italian pastry that's the crowning jewel of any Little Italy feast.

Fresh strawberries muddled with lemon juice, vodka, and elderflower liqueur, topped with sparkling club soda. A pretty, fizzy cocktail that sets a festive, welcoming mood when friends come together.

Yeasted dough filled with cinnamon-brown sugar and optional pecans and raisins, prepped the night before and iced warm from the oven. A make-ahead holiday morning tradition that fills the house with the magic of Christmas Day.

Layers of homemade pound cake, strawberries simmered in preserves, and cream cheese whipped cream stacked in a trifle bowl for a stunning layered dessert. A beautiful, show-stopping presentation that transforms a classic strawberry shortcake into a queenly grand finale.

Baby spinach is wilted in nutty browned butter with garlic and shallots, then brightened with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This simple, elegant side comes together in minutes but delivers rich, toasty flavor that pairs beautifully with the cedar plank salmon.

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.

Pea-infused risotto is chilled, formed around cubes of mozzarella, coated in panko, and deep-fried until golden and crispy, then served with a fresh herb-Meyer lemon-yogurt dipping sauce. These elegant, spring-green arancini with their molten cheese centers make a stunning passed appetizer for a Galentine's Day dinner or any special gathering.

Baby arugula topped with fresh orange wheels, shaved fennel, red onion, and basil in a Dijon-white balsamic vinaigrette. A bright, refreshing winter salad that brings a burst of sunshine to the table on the darkest days.

Golden choux puffs are baked until crisp and hollow, then filled with both vanilla whipped cream and espresso whipped cream and dusted with confectioners' sugar. These light, elegant pastries pair two classic flavors in one impressive yet surprisingly approachable dessert.