All you need are fresh cremini and dried porcini mushrooms to have a flavor-packed dish.

Oatmeal Raisin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Two of my favorite cookies in one.

Seared Ahi, Mizuna, Green Mango and Avocado Salad: Inspired by a tropical new year celebration.

White Bean Dip: light, lemony, garlicky and a healthy start to the new year.

Cranberry-Cinnamon Scones: Festive and not shy on holiday flavor.

Pasta with Fresh Herbs and Chopped Olives for a book review: simple, unfussy and satisfying.

Chocolate Raspberry Cake: A double infusion of Chambord and a slathering of raspberry jam makes this cake worthy of a celebration.

Banana Turnovers: With a smooth, silky pastry cream filling, this is a banana cream pie in pocket form. So easy!

Rosemary-Parmesan Crackers: So easy to make at home and you’ll be happy you did!

Heirloom Beans: A little love on the stove and you’ll never want to use the canned ones.

Fresh Figs, Chocolate Liqueur and Mascarpone Cheese: Simplicity at its best!

Truffle Brownies: You might think you don’t need another brownie recipe but I encourage you to try this one.

Marinated Tri Tip: My favorite spices went in this tender, flavorful summer favorite.

Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: Full of fresh strawberry goodness!

Papaya-Carrot Sorbet: An unlikely but delicious combination

Cucumber Cups with Caramelized Onion and Bacon: Try it for your next dinner party.

Potato Broccoli Soup: Caramelizing onions and shallots did the trick to boost the soup’s flavor.

Sea Salt and Pepper Crackers: No need to pay a premium for a tiny box. You can easily make these at home.

Belgian Waffles: Whipped egg whites make them light and crisp. Add bacon and cheese to the batter for a savory twist.

Adding grated lemon zest and poppy seeds improves an already-good sugar cookie.