Duane DeMello, Recipe Tester

Salmon mousse pinwheels are an elegant way to kick off a tea, cocktail party, or dinner. The pinwheels can be made ahead and sliced just before serving.

• 20 M
• 20 M
• 2

No mere cocktail and not just dessert, this margarita granita falls somewhere blissfully, intoxicatingly in between. Yet is still as satisfying as if you’d had both.

• Quick Glance
• 15 M
• 11 H
• 0

Inspired by classic tandoori chicken, these wraps meld warming spices with a cooling mint-yogurt dip for an altogether enticing Middle Eastern-inspired creation.

• 25 M
• 1 H
• 9

Jambalaya get a new look with this recipe. Duck breasts are grilled then added to the pot along with rice, ham, onions, and bell peppers. Hot and spicy.

• Quick Glance
• 1 H, 20 M
• 1 H, 45 M
• 0

A superlative version of the classic American quick bread that everyone loves.

• 30 M
• 1 H, 30 M
• 80

This bread pudding is filled with bacon, peppers, spinach, and cheese making it a one-dish meal. It’s ideal for Christmas and Thanksgiving, but it works for the remaining 363 days, too.

• 25 M
• 2 H, 15 M
• 6

Shrimp paste is a classic southern treat. Small shrimp is blended with butter, shallots, and spices. Smear the shrimp paste on biscuits or toast points.

• Quick Glance
• 15 M
• 30 M
• 0

This oyster stew, rich with cream and plump with oysters, is a classic and consummate first course for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

• 20 M
• 20 M
• 3

These savory shortbreads are seasoned with thyme, lemon, and a sprinkling of sea salt. Serve the shortbreads as a snack or as an hors d’oeuvre with wine.

• Quick Glance
• 30 M
• 1 H, 20 M
• 5

For caramelized onion and balsamic vinegar bruschetta, the onion is cooked until brown then drizzled with balsamic vinegar and piled on the bruschetta.

• 15 M
• 1 H, 15 M
• 6

Dense and savory, this bread recipe is shot through with cheddar cheese and plenty of green chiles for a Mexican-inspired loaf. Great for sandwiches.

• 30 M
• 3 H, 45 M
• 4

Perfect for a hot summer day, white Spanish gazpacho has the mellow flavor of almonds. Garnish with grapes or try gooseberries for a sweet, tart flavor.

• Quick Glance
• 10 M
• 2 H, 10 M
• 0

This goat cheese in phyllo dish is a lovely variation of a classic French salad. Serve it as an appetizer or late-night nibble.

• Quick Glance
• 40 M
• 1 H, 40 M
• 0

These pork chops with vinegar and sweet peppers are juicy because they’re brined. Bell peppers add sweetness to the pork chops, while vinegar adds tang.

• 45 M
• 1 H, 45 M
• 2