A semi-homemade lemon cake with a ricotta-mascarpone filling that magically switches layers during baking, topped with a creamy mascarpone-pudding frosting. A bright, tangy showstopper that proves when life gives you lemons, you bake something wonderful.

Blanched snap peas tossed with crispy prosciutto, creamy goat cheese, orange supremes, radishes, fresh mint, and tarragon. A vibrant, renovated salad that layers bright citrus, salty crunch, and fresh herbs for a beautifully composed dish.

Blanched kale layered with seared chicken and artichoke hearts in a light milk-broth sauce, broiled with a crispy panko and Parmesan topping. A lighter, cleaner spin on a comfort-food casserole that satisfies without weighing you down.

Bone-in chicken breasts marinated overnight in red wine vinegar with prunes, capers, and garlic-stuffed olives, then baked with brown sugar and white wine. A Mediterranean-inspired dish with an irresistible balance of sweet, briny, and savory flavors.

On Friday, March 27 at 6pm ET Val and Sophie did a live cook-along with this wonderful take on Beef and Broccoli.

Caramel ice cream blended with rich stout beer and topped with whipped cream and malt powder for a decadent, boozy shake

Lamb chops are marinated in red wine, balsamic vinegar, and rosemary, then seared on a grill pan and drizzled with a reduced marinade-honey glaze. These elegant, bite-sized lamb lollipops deliver rich, aromatic flavor and make a sophisticated addition to any dinner party or appetizer spread.

Red wine simmered in a slow cooker with cheesecloth-wrapped whole spices, orange juice and zest, and a sprig of rosemary. A fragrant, hands-off holiday drink that fills the house with warmth as the days grow shorter.

Pinto beans simmered with cumin, coriander, and chipotle, mashed to a thick paste with some texture left for body, and finished with fresh lime. A flavorful, from-scratch staple that outshines any canned version and anchors the whole So-Cal menu.

A rich turkey gravy made from scratch with turkey stock, neck, and gizzards simmered with fresh thyme. The essential companion to deep-fried turkey.