When summer hits, the best way to celebrate is to head outside and grill the perfect cheeseburger. Add in Valerie's special burger sauce and it's a can't miss hit.

Sushi-grade tuna is marinated in tamari, mirin, sesame oil, ginger, honey, and chile, then set out with an array of toppings including cucumbers, radishes, avocado, nori, edamame, and pickled ginger for guests to build their own bowls. This interactive poke bar brings the casual, fresh flavors of Hawaiian fish markets to the table and lets everyone customize their perfect bite.

Turnips are braised in homemade chicken stock until tender, then the liquid is reduced to a concentrated glaze and finished with butter and fresh tarragon. This simple, refined side dish transforms an often-overlooked root vegetable into something silky, savory, and deeply flavorful.

A buttery shortbread tart shell filled with fresh blueberries in a light glaze. An elegant and not-too-sweet dessert perfect for a dinner party.

Bone-in chicken breasts and thighs are seared golden, then simmered in a bold sauce of ponzu, sambal, brown sugar, fish sauce, crushed tomatoes, lemongrass, and galangal, and served over fragrant cilantro basmati rice. This Southeast Asian-inspired braise delivers layers of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavor in a deeply comforting one-pot dinner.

A crisp-shelled, marshmallow-centered meringue is baked low and slow, then topped with silky orange curd, vanilla whipped cream, jewel-toned clementine and grapefruit wheels, and a shower of lime zest. This stunning, layered pavlova is a show-stopping centerpiece dessert for an elegant ladies' dinner or any special celebration.

Dill pickle spears are breaded in cayenne-spiked flour, dipped in egg, coated in panko, and deep-fried for one minute until shatteringly crispy, served alongside a tangy food processor ranch dip. These crunchy, briny, spicy pickle fries are an addictive fair food sensation that will have everyone reaching for just one more.

Hand-ground fresh salmon patties seasoned with Dijon, jalapeno, lemon zest, and herbs, grilled and served on buns with all the fixings. A lighter, flavorful alternative to beef burgers that's ideal for closing out grilling season.

Ciabatta rolls are loaded with layers of prosciutto, capicola, Genoa salami, provolone, fresh tomatoes, crisp lettuce, onion, and pepperoncini, finished with a drizzle of oil and vinegar. This classic Italian sub captures the spirit of a carefree beach day with its generous, no-fuss deli-style construction.

Equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth are shaken over ice and strained into a glass, garnished with a twisted orange peel. This perfectly balanced, bittersweet classic is a sophisticated way to toast the birthday guest of honor.