Cynthia D.

This good old-fashioned soup has a frugal heartiness once needed by day laborers. And a satiating subtleness now appreciated by foodies.

Perhaps the simplest and most sophisticated dinner party precursor ever. Just make the savory shortbread dough, freeze, slice, and bake. You're welcome.

In this inspired Italian creation, traditional lasagna noodles are supplanted by polenta. Trust us, you'll feel no guilt nor regret over forsaking custom.

We know. You already have an egg salad sandwich recipe. But trust us, it's nothing like this one, which is whoppingly old school in taste, blissfully healthful in every other way.

True story: This luscious little number inspired one toddler to dip and dunk his way through an entire bag of baby carrots. An entire bag. Behold, the power of the dipper!