Nut Free

These old-fashioned marshmallows look beautiful in apothecary jars. Find one at a flea market, Williams-Sonoma, or on etsy.com.

Most fish markets will sell you the bones you need to make the rich broth, but avoid those from oily fish like mackerel or bluefish, which will overpower the stew's flavor.

Hot-smoked salmon, unlike cured, is fully cooked.

The frittata will be easier to remove from the skillet if it sits for a few minutes—the top will deflate and the edges will pull away from the pan.

Totally elegant, easy, and seasonal, this is just the main to make for your next fall dinner party.

The ultimate holiday vacation cooking project: lasagna with two homemade sauces and layers of homemade pasta.

Named for a region in Normandy known for its apples (and Calvados), this traditional recipe combines both in a rich, creamy sauce. Afraid to flambé? Buy a long-reach lighter at a hardware store.

In this indulgent cake, apples are caramelized before being baked in buttery batter. Why stop there? Salted caramel sauce lets guests indulge even further.

Slow-roasted cod—simply topped with a zesty, rustic relish—is just the thing to brighten up any winter dinner party.

Using mature arugula leaves instead of the baby variety will make for a more peppery salsa. For a nice variation, try it with fresh basil and/or parsley.

A decadent side that goes with almost everything—even breakfast.

Without the hassle of breading and frying, eggplant Parmesan goes from special-occasion project to easy weeknight dinner.

To prevent the pasta from getting too soft, we cook it separately and toss it with olive oil and chopped parsley, then spoon it into each bowl of soup.

You can cut and butter the bread well in advance, but don't bake it till guests arrive.

Don't rush the browning of the onions—it's essential to the finished soup's flavor.

A light yet flavorful "stew" of tender leeks that comes together practically à la minute.

These delicate cheese puffs always impress. Once you get the hang of the dough, you'll serve them at every opportunity.