Gourmet

Instead of pairing shrimp with sausage, we've taken this spicy gumbo in a more sophisticated direction by adding duck meat.

This variation on vitello tonnato retains the Mediterranean feel of the classic veal dish without all the fuss, and the arresting dark spiral created by the black-olive tapenade filling makes the dish special enough for entertaining.

Clams and pork are a classic Portuguese combination. The briny sweetness of the bivalves and a tomato sauce studded with zesty chorizo bring out the richness of the chops.

Bacon and scallops always pair beautifully, but it's the mixture of sugar and spice that transforms these easy-to-make hors d'oeuvres.

No need to trouble yourself about presentation with these tapas-style hors d'oeuvres. Simply toss steamed mussels in a vinaigrette with piquillo peppers, toasted almonds, and serrano ham, then nestle them back into their shells. They're lovely on the plate—and easy to eat.

The addictive topping, a potent mix of pork belly, mushrooms, and Chinese rock sugar, takes some time to cook, but you'll love the result.

Fried tofu takes on a meaty texture in this traditional Hunan dish that goes from pleasantly spicy to five-alarm fire in a matter of teaspoons. Pungent fermented beans add a satisfying fragrance to the sauce, perfect for spooning over rice.

Meaty, sweet squid steaks offer a seafood variation of chicken francese.

Don't be surprised when this colorful, kid-friendly meal is also a hit with adults.

It's worth seeking out fresh cheese ravioli. They will make this meal special.

Here's a hearty vegetable soup that doesn't take as long to make as the classic but is much better than what you'll find in a can.

You may want to double this recipe—the apple-walnut topping and whipped cream make these cakes disappear fast.

Sweet and spicy, these carrots are the perfect accompaniment to simple roast chicken, turkey, or pork loin.

Adding a hint of orange zest to beloved chocolate chip oatmeal cookies gives them a faint citrus aroma and fresh bite.

Feel free to experiment with this recipe—a different sausage or cheese may make it your new no-hassle dinner standby.

This easy, elegant, and flavorful salad is delicious with a glass of dry Riesling.

Cider made from fresh apples creates a full-bodied glaze for these tender chops.

Garlic and raisins blend beautifully in a dish that's a welcome substitute for the basic broccoli-and-butter side.

Earthy mushrooms are the base for a soup that also benefits from the saltwater essence of plump oysters.

The tangy honey-vinegar sauce that tops this crisp-skinned chicken is also great on pork, duck, or even a meaty fish.