Yields 36 brownies.

Ingredients.

For the brownies

Tip: For the best results, measure your flour by weight instead of volume. (1 cup of all-purpose flour equals 4-1/2 oz.) If you don’t have a scale, be sure to use the proper technique when filling your measuring cups.

For the topping

For the garnish

Directions:

Make the brownies.

In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended. Gradually whisk in the sugar and then whisk vigorously until well blended. Whisk in the melted chocolate mixture, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk in the flour and cocoa powder until blended. Stir in the pecans and then scrape the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer with a spatula.

Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center of the brownies comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, 20 to 22 minutes. Transfer the pan to a wire rack and, if necessary, gently press down any puffed areas with a spatula to make the top level. Let cool about 5 minutes.

Make the topping

While the brownies are baking, make the Basic Caramel according to the directions. Remove the pan from the heat and carefully add the cream—the mixture will bubble up furiously. Once the bubbling has subsided, add the butter and gently whisk until completely melted. Whisk in the vanilla extract and salt. Pour the caramel topping over the brownies, using a spatula to spread it evenly over the entire top. Let the brownies cool on the rack for 45 minutes and then refrigerate until the caramel topping is set, at least 1 hour.

Garnish the brownies

Combine the chocolate and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat and stir constantly until melted and smooth. Pour the chocolate into a small piping bag fitted with a 1/8-inch plain tip. (Or put it in a small zip-top bag and seal the bag. Using scissors, snip off a corner of the bag to make a small hole.) Drizzle the chocolate over the brownies in a zigzag pattern. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top. Refrigerate until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes.

Cut the brownies into 36 rectangles. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Make ahead tips

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

These tacos are the perfect destination for leftover chicken. Set up a taco bar and let your family assemble their own tacos with their favorite fillings and toppings. You can find chipotles en adobo in the Mexican food section of the grocery store.

Serves 4-6

Ingredients.

2 large ripe avocados, pitted
2 limes, 1 juiced and 1 cut into wedges
1-1/2 tsp. kosher salt; more as needed
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper; more as needed
2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
1 tsp. chili powder
Scant 1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 14-1/2oz. can petite-diced tomatoes, drained
1 medium chipotle chile, finely diced, plus 1 to 2 Tbs. adobo sauce (from a can of chipotles en adobo)
2-1/2 to 3 cups leftover roast chicken, shredded or cut into thin strips
12 small corn tortillas, warmed
6 oz. queso fresco or feta, crumbled (1-1/3 cups)
3 cups thinly sliced red cabbage (about 6 oz.)
2/3 cup fresh cilantro leaves, washed and patted dry

Directions:

Mash the avocados with the lime juice in a medium bowl. Season with about 1 tsp. of the salt and the pepper, or to taste.

Set a large, heavy-based skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and onion, sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 tsp. salt, and cook, stirring, until softened and translucent, about 6 minutes. Add the chili powder and cinnamon and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Add the tomatoes, chipotle, and adobo sauce and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes, mashing the tomatoes with a wooden spoon. Stir in the chicken, cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook until the chicken heats through, about 10 minutes. Taste, and season with salt and pepper if needed.

Let diners assemble their own tacos by spreading the warm tortillas with the avocado and then topping with the chicken, cheese, cabbage, cilantro, and a squeeze of juice from the lime wedges.

Serving suggestions

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Coconut milk and spiced rum add an unusual and delicious twist to this pumpkin pie.

Serves 8

Ingredients.

One 15-oz. can pure pumpkin purée
1-1/4 cups unsweetened coconut milk (full fat only, stirred or shaken well before using)
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1 tsp. ground ginger
3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. table salt
1/8 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg
4 large eggs, at room temperature
2 Tbs. spiced rum, such as Captain Morgan
1 blind-baked All-Butter Piecrust

Directions:

Position a rack in the center of the oven, set a heavy-duty rimmed baking sheet on the rack, and heat the oven to 425°F.

In a large bowl, whisk the pumpkin, coconut milk, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until smooth. Whisk in the eggs and then the rum, until the mixture is smooth. Pour the filling into the piecrust.

Put the pie on the heated baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes and then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. Bake until the center of the pie no longer wobbles when the pan is nudged (a slight jiggle is fine), an additional 45 to 55 minutes.

Transfer to a rack and cool completely before serving. The pie can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Why choose between crème brûlée and cheesecake when you can combine them into one decadent dessert? The crackly burnt sugar topping provides a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy filling. Create your own customized cheesecake recipe with our Recipe Maker.

Serves ten to twelve.

Ingredients.

8 oz. vanilla wafers, finely crushed (2 cups of crumbs) 3 Tbs. granulated sugar
7 Tbs. unsalted butter, melted
3 8-oz. packages cream cheese, at room temperature
8 oz. mascarpone
2 Tbs. all-purpose flour
Table salt
1-1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 Tbs. pure vanilla extract
4 large eggs, at room temperature
2 Tbs. granulated sugar

Directions:

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 375°F.

In a medium bowl, stir together the vanilla wafer crumbs and 3 Tbs. granulated sugar. Mix in the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moist and clump together slightly. Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch springform pan and press evenly onto the bottom and about 2 inches up the sides of the pan (to press, use plastic wrap or a flat-bottom measuring cup). Bake until the crust is fragrant and slightly darkened, 9 to 12 minutes. Let the pan cool on a rack. Lower the oven temperature to 300°F.

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese, mascarpone, flour, and a pinch of table salt on medium speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl and the paddle frequently, until very smooth and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Make sure the cheese has no lumps. Add the 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar and continue beating until well blended and smooth.

Add the vanilla and beat until blended, about 30 seconds. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until blended. (Don’t overbeat once the eggs have been added or the cheesecake will puff too much and crack as it cools.) Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Bake at 300°F until the center jiggles like Jell-O when nudged, 55 to 65 minutes. The cake will be slightly puffed around the edges, and the center will still look moist. Set on a rack and cool completely. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 8 hours and up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen at this point for up to 1 month (see make-ahead tip, below).

Unclasp and remove the side of the springform pan and run a long, thin metal spatula under the bottom crust of the cheesecake. Carefully slide the cake onto a flat serving plate. Sprinkle the 2 Tbs. granulated sugar evenly over the top of the cheesecake and slowly pass a hand-held kitchen torch over the sugar until melted and caramelized.

To cut, run a thin knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and cut the cake into slices, heating and wiping the knife after every slice.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

This is a quick and easy version of sopa de lima, a comforting yet refreshing Yucatan chicken soup made tangy with fresh lime juice. Tasty garnishes include fried tortilla strips (or tortilla chips), diced avocado, and fresh cilantro.

Serves four.

Ingredients.

12 oz. boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 Tbs. vegetable oil
1 small white onion (8 oz.), chopped
4 medium cloves garlic, minced
1 small jalapeño, minced
1 quart lower-salt chicken broth
1 15-oz. can hominy, drained
1 tsp. dried Mexican oregano, crumbled if the leaves are large
4 to 5 Tbs. fresh lime juice
Kosher salt and ground black pepper
2-1/2 oz. cotija or feta cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes (1/2 cup)

Directions:

Cut each chicken breast crosswise into 1-1/2-inch-wide pieces.

Heat the oil in a 6-quart pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the onion and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and jalapeño and cook, stirring often, until fragrant, about 45 seconds. Add the broth, hominy, oregano, and chicken. Raise the heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium, cover, and simmer gently, stirring occasionally and adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a simmer, until the chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Transfer the chicken to a plate. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-size pieces and return to the pan. Bring the soup back to a simmer over medium heat, stir in the lime juice, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls, top with the cheese, and serve immediately.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

All the ingredients in a loaded baked potato—bacon, scallions, cheese, and sour cream—are added to mashed potatoes in this hearty meal.

Serves four.

Ingredients.

2 lb. Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch chunks
4 slices thick-cut bacon
2 boneless beef rib-eye steaks (about 2 lb. total)
1-1/2 tsp. sweet smoked paprika
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup whole milk
2 Tbs. unsalted butter
3 oz. grated sharp Cheddar (3/4 cup)
1/2 cup sour cream
2 medium scallions, thinly sliced

Directions:

Arrange a steamer basket in a large pot with 1 inch of water in the bottom. Spread the potatoes in the basket in an even layer, cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium low and steam until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, turning once, until crisp, 7 to 8 minutes total. Transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate; discard all but 1 Tbs. of the fat from the skillet.

Season the steaks all over with the paprika, 1-1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper. Heat the skillet with the reserved bacon fat over medium-high heat. Arrange the steaks in the skillet in a single layer. Cook, flipping once, until deep golden-brown outside and medium rare inside, 10 to 12 minutes total. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, transfer the hot potatoes to a large bowl. Stir in the milk and butter and mash with a potato masher until just combined. Stir in the cheese, sour cream, scallions, and salt and pepper to taste.

Slice the steaks across the grain and transfer to dinner plates. Serve the potatoes on the side with the bacon crumbled on top.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a salad or Quick-Sautéed Collard Ribbons.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Sweet potatoes and maple-glazed ham give this main-dish salad a chunky texture and sweet-salty flavor profile. Look for high-quality, all-natural ham steak for the best flavor and texture.

Serves four.

Ingredients.

1 medium yellow onion, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/2-inch wedges
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch rounds
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1-1/4 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3/4 lb. ham steak (preferably “ham with natural juices”), cut into 3/4-inch cubes (2 cups)
2 Tbs. pure maple syrup
2 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
5 oz. mesclun salad mix
4 oz. fresh goat cheese, crumbled

Directions:

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 450°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. On the baking sheet, toss the onion, sweet potato, 2 Tbs. of the oil, 1 tsp. of the rosemary, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper and spread in a single layer. Roast until the vegetables start to become tender, about 15 minutes.

In a small bowl, toss the ham with the maple syrup. Push the vegetables on the baking sheet aside to make room for the ham and bake until the ham and onions are browned in places, about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk the remaining 6 Tbs. oil with the vinegar, the remaining 1/4 tsp. rosemary, and 1/4 tsp. each salt and pepper. In a large bowl, toss the mesclun with 1/4 cup of the vinaigrette. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Divide the mesclun among 4 plates. Top with the roasted vegetables and ham. Sprinkle each salad with some of the goat cheese. Drizzle with the remaining vinaigrette and serve.

Serving suggestions

This hearty salad needs only a loaf of crusty bread to make a complete meal. For dessert, try couscous pudding (like rice pudding, only quicker), studded with brandied prunes or dried apricots.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Serves two to four.

Ingredients.

2 Tbs. olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz.) high-quality diced tomatoes (like Muir Glen)
3 sprigs fresh thyme
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 large eggs
1 Tbs. chopped fresh chives
2 Tbs. freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano
6 thick slices of good crusty bread, drizzled with oil-and toasted

Directions:

Set a rack in the upper half of the oven and heat the broiler to high. On the stovetop, heat a 10-inch, straight-sided, ovenproof skillet over medium heat, and once it’s hot, add the oil and garlic. Cook the garlic, stirring often so it won’t burn, until it begins to turn light golden brown, about 30 seconds. Add the tomatoes and thyme and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 8-minutes. Discard the thyme sprigs and season the mixture liberally with salt and pepper. Reserve about one-third of the sauce in a bowl and spread the remaining sauce evenly around the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium low, crack the eggs into the tomato sauce, and lightly spoon the reserved tomato sauce over the whites of the eggs (not on the yolks). Cover the pan and cook for 3 minutes so the eggs set slightly. Uncover the skillet and set it under the broiler until the yolks firm up slightly but are still soft to the touch, about 2 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle with the chives and cheese. Serve immediately with the toasted bread.

Serving suggestions

Try serving the eggs on top of sautéed spinach or lay a slice of prosciutto over them. For a more elegant presentation, divide the eggs and sauce into four small gratin dishes before-broiling.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Yields 4

A combination of bacon and smoked paprika gives this tomato soup a strong profile that goes perfectly with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. Go with the sweet pimentón for a rich taste with little heat, or try the hot for a spicier kick in the soup.

Ingredients.

1 Tbs. olive oil
3 thick strips bacon (about 3 oz.), thinly sliced
1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1-1/2 cups)
Kosher salt
1 Tbs. unbleached all-purpose flour
1 Tbs. chopped fresh thyme
1/2 tsp. sweet or hot pimentón (smoked paprika)
One 28-oz. can whole tomatoes and their juices (3 cups) (preferably San Marzano)
2 cups lower-salt chicken broth
2 Tbs. heavy cream
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

Serving suggestions:

What better partner for tomato soup than a Classic Grilled Cheese? Or to mix it up a little, try a Grilled Goat Cheese Sandwich with Tapenade.

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Looking for a quick dinner that's heavy on the veggies and light on the meat? The spicy salsa makes this salad so filling, you won’t even notice the smaller portion of chicken. In this mix, it's just right.

Serves six

Ingredients.

1 boneless skinless chicken breast half (6 to 7 oz.), trimmed
1/2 Tbs. chili powder
1 tsp. light or dark brown sugar
1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
Kosher salt
6 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil; more for the grill
2 Tbs. plus 2 tsp. fresh lime juice
1 Tbs. plus 2 tsp. chopped fresh cilantro, plus leaves for garnish
2 tsp. honey
Freshly ground black pepper
Green Tabasco (optional)
1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
4 oz. small cherry or grape tomatoes, quartered or halved (about 3/4 cup)
1 large scallion, thinly sliced
2 small heads Bibb lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces (about 9 cups)
1 medium firm-ripe avocado
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or pepitas

Directions:

Prepare a medium-high gas or charcoal grill fire.

Trim and then butterfly the chicken breast by slicing it horizontally almost but not entirely in half so you can open it like a book.

Combine the chili powder, brown sugar, coriander, cumin, and 3/4 tsp. salt in a small bowl. Rub some of the spice mix over both sides of the butterflied chicken breast (you won’t need it all) and let sit while the grill heats.

Clean and oil the grill grate. Grill the breast until the edges of the top side are white, about 3 minutes. Flip and cook until just done, 1 to 2 minutes more. Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes.

In a small bowl or a glass jar with a tight lid, combine the olive oil, lime juice, 1?Tbs. of the cilantro, the honey, 1/2 tsp. salt, a few grinds of pepper, and a few shakes of green Tabasco (if using). Whisk or shake well to combine.

Combine the black beans, tomatoes, scallion, the remaining 2 tsp. cilantro, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Add 2 Tbs. of the dressing and toss gently.

Put the lettuce in a bowl, season with a little salt, and toss with just enough of the dressing to lightly coat. (Reserve a little to drizzle on the chicken.) Arrange the lettuce on a platter or four dinner plates. Slice the chicken breast very thinly. Pit and slice the avocado. Arrange the chicken, avocado, and salsa on the lettuce. Drizzle a little of the remaining dressing over the chicken and avocado. Garnish with the pine nuts or pepitas and the cilantro leaves.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Serves six

Ingredients.

1 ear fresh corn, in the husk
1/4 cup plus 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups red, yellow, or orange cherry tomatoes (or a combination), halved
1/2 red bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch dice
1/2 green bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch dice
1/2 small red onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice
1/2 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch dice
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
2 small cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 recipe Simple Roasted Potatoes
3 Tbs. red-wine vinegar

Directions:

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 450°F. Remove the husk and put the corn on a small baking sheet. Drizzle 1 tsp. of the oil onto the corn and rub it over all the kernels. Sprinkle with kosher salt and pepper. Roast, turning the cob occasionally, until the corn kernels are light brown in a few spots, about 20 minutes. Let the corn cool. Cut the kernels from the cob.

Add the corn, tomatoes, red, green, and yellow peppers, onion, basil, and garlic to the potatoes. Toss gently. Whisk the remaining 1/4 cup oil and the vinegar together and add to the salad. Toss again. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Yogurt is mildly acidic so it’s a great tenderizer; an overnight marinade in a garlic-herb yogurt makes this chicken moist and flavorful.

Serves four.

Ingredients.

One 4-lb. chicken
2 cups plain full-fat or low-fat yogurt
3 medium cloves garlic, chopped
1 large shallot, chopped
1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1 Tbs. cracked black peppercorns
1 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

In a gallon-size resealable plastic bag, combine the yogurt, garlic, shallot, parsley, dill, cracked peppercorns, lemon zest, and 2 tsp. salt. Add the chicken to the bag and turn to coat well. Set in a bowl and refrigerate overnight.

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 450°F. Remove the chicken from the marinade and put it skin side up on a broiler pan or on a rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet. Season both sides well with salt and pepper. Roast the chicken, uncovered, until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thigh reads 170°F, 45 to 50 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a carving board and loosely tent it with foil; let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Not only is it cheaper to buy a whole chicken than one sold in parts, but you can also use the neck, giblets, and back to make a gravy for the fried chicken.

Serves four to five. Yields about 1-3/4 cups gravy.

Ingredients.

For the gravy (optional)

For the fried chicken

Make the batter

In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with 2 tsp. sea salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 and up to 24 hours, turning occasionally.

Make the Broth for the Gravy (optional)

Fry the chicken

Pour enough oil into a deep heavy-duty 12-inch skillet (preferably cast iron) to reach a depth of 1/2 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until a deep fat/candy thermometer clipped to the side of the skillet without touching the bottom registers 350°F.

Carefully arrange the chicken skin side down in the hot oil—it’s fine if the pan is very crowded. The temperature will drop to about 300°F. Partially cover the skillet with a lid or a baking sheet, leaving the thermometer visible, and fry until golden-brown, about 5 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain 300°F to 325°F. If necessary, move the pieces around for even browning. Turn the chicken over and fry, uncovered, until browned all over and an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of each piece, 5 to 7 minutes more.

Meanwhile, wash and dry the wire rack and baking sheet and set the rack over the sheet near the skillet. Using tongs, transfer the chicken to the rack to drain briefly. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Make the Gravy (optional)

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Braising the garlic in this recipe takes away some of its punch, rendering it sweet and ultratender.

Serves 4 for dinner

Ingredients.

2 Tbs. unsalted butter
1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
6 medium leeks (light-green and white parts only), halved and sliced crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces (10 cups)
10 medium cloves garlic, halved
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup lower-salt chicken broth
12 oz. dried spaghetti
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 oz. grated Pecorino Romano (1/3 cup)
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Directions:

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.

Uncover the skillet and remove the parchment. Stir in the cream and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and toss. If necessary, add the reserved pasta water 1 Tbs. at a time to make a silky saucethat clings to the pasta.

Off the heat, stir in the cheese and parsley. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

There are so many ways to use up Thanksgiving leftovers, but none so easy as simple quesadillas. Put a Tex-Mex spin on your leftover turkey with this quick and easy dinner.

Serves 4 for dinner; 8 for a light lunch.

Ingredients.

2 medium ripe avocados
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 medium lime, one half juiced and the other cut into wedges
1 serrano chile, seeded and minced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 cups shredded roast turkey or chicken
2 cups fresh corn kernels, blanched, or frozen corn, cooked according to package directions and drained
1/2 cup packed coarsely chopped fresh cilantro
Eight 7-inch flour tortillas
2 cups (5 oz.) grated pepper jack cheese
2 Tbs. canola oil
Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 200°F.

Directions:

In a large bowl, toss the turkey, corn, and cilantro with 1 tsp. salt. Top half of each tortilla with one-eighth of the filling mixture and 1/4 cup of the cheese. Fold the uncovered half of each tortilla over the filling.

Heat 1-1/2 tsp. of the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 2 of the quesadillas to the pan and weigh down with a lid. Cook until golden-brown and a bit crisp, 2 to 3 minutes. With a spatula, carefully flip each quesadilla and cook until golden-brown and the cheese has melted, about 2 minutes more. Transfer the quesadillas to a baking sheet and put in the oven.

Wipe out the pan. Repeat, cooking the remaining quesadillas in 3 more batches, using 1-1/2 tsp. oil for each batch. Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve with the guacamole and lime wedges on the side.

Serving suggestions

Serve the quesadillas with a Mango and Jícama Salad.

Nutrition information (per serving):

For a very flavorful roast chicken, I like to liven up plain old kosher salt by mixing it with some fresh rosemary and lemon zest. Pulsing it in the food processor helps release the flavorful oils from the zest and the rosemary. This recipe is for two chickens, which will give you leftover meat to use in salads, wraps, or this quick stir-fry. One whole chicken serves four for dinner; the second yields enough to make two additional meals.

One whole chicken serves four for dinner; the second yields enough to make two additional meals.

Ingredients

2 medium lemons
2 Tbs. plus 1 tsp. kosher salt
2 Tbs. chopped fresh rosemary
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 4-lb. chickens, giblets and excess fat discarded
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Tip: Salting seasons the bird, of course, but if you can do it a day, or even a few hours, ahead, you'll get more flavorful meat and crisper skin.

Directions

Finely grate the zest from the lemons. In a food processor or mini chopper, combine the zest with the 2 Tbs. salt, the rosemary, and black pepper. Pulse several times to combine.

Sprinle each chicken with this salt mixture both inside and outside the cavity and between the skin and the breast meat (use your fingers to gently open up a pocket between the two). Cut 1 of the lemons in half and stuff a half in the cavity of each bird. Reserve the remaining lemon for another use. Set the chickens on a wire rack atop a rimmed baking sheet, and refrigerate uncovered for at least 4 hours and up to 24 hours.

About 30 minutes before you're ready to roast the chickens, set an oven rack in the middle position and heat the oven to 425°F. Take the chickens out of the refrigerator and brush the butter uniformly over the skin. Sprinkle each chicken with 1/2 tsp. salt. Set each chicken, breast side up, on 1 or 2 racks (preferably a nonadjustable V-rack) in a large roasting pan. Let the chickens rest at room temperature while the oven heats.

Roast the chickens until the breasts are nicely browned and crisp, about 40 minutes. Gently flip each chicken (I like using tongs to clutch the inside ofthe cavity and the side of the bird) and roast until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F to 170°F, about 20 minutes more. Let rest for 5 minutes before carving one of the chickens into pieces.

Nutrition information (per serving):

These eggs are surprisingly easy: Just four ingredients, and they’re ready in about 10 minutes

Serves: 2

Ingredients

2 tsp. unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1-1/2 tsp. chopped fresh chives
2 Tbs. heavy cream

Directions

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 425°F. Butter 2 oven-safe 6-inch gratin dishes with 1 tsp. butter each.

Crack 2 eggs into each gratin dish. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sprinkle with the chives. Drizzle 1 Tbs. cream in each dish, starting over the yolks and working around the dish. Bake until the eggs are bubbly and browned on the edges but not quite set in the middle, 5 minutes. (For firmer eggs, bake an additional 1 minute .)

Heat the broiler on high. Broil the eggs, still on the center rack of the oven, until the center is just set, about 2 minutes. Remove from the oven immediately—the eggs will continue to set.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Calories (kcal): 230; Fat (g): 19; Fat Calories (kcal): 170; Saturated Fat (g): 9; Protein (g): 13; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 6; Carbohydrates (g): 1; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 1.5; Sodium (mg): 290; Cholesterol (mg): 455; Fiber (g): 0;

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Ground pretzels not only make a great crunchy-salty coating for chicken, they also make this dish a family-friendly favorite you'll get plenty of requests for.

Serves: 4

Ingredients

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/4 cup plus 1 Tbs. Dijon mustard
3 cups pretzels (not low-sodium)
3 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 1-1/2 lb.)
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 Tbs. finely chopped fresh dill
1 tsp. honey
1/2 cup vegetable oil

Directions

Put the flour in a wide, shallow bowl. In another wide, shallow bowl, lightly beat the eggs and 1 Tbs. of the mustard. Process the pretzels in a food processor until a coarse flour forms, about 30 seconds. Transfer the pretzel flour to a third wide, shallow bowl. Line up the flour, egg, and pretzel bowls in that order.

Put the chicken on a cutting board, and holding your knife parallel to the board, split each breast in half horizontally. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken lightly with pepper. Dredge both sides of the chicken in the flour, then the egg, and then the pretzel flour, coating well and shaking off the excess. Transfer to a baking sheet and refrigerate for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup mustard with the mayonnaise, dill, honey, and 1/8 tsp. black pepper; set aside.

Heat the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot but not smoking, add three of the chicken breast pieces. Cook until the first side is dark brown, about 2 minutes. Carefully flip and cook until the chicken is cooked through and the second side is golden-brown, about 2 minutes more; if the chicken seems to be browning too fast, reduce the heat to medium. Transfer to a clean cutting board and cover to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining chicken.

Slice the chicken on the diagonal. Divide the slices among four dinner plates and serve with the dipping sauce.

Serving suggestions:

Serve with tangy Sweet-Sour Red Cabbage.

Nutrition information (per serving):

Calories (kcal): 810; Fat (g): 50; Fat Calories (kcal): 440; Saturated Fat (g): 8; Protein (g): 43; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 17; Carbohydrates (g): 47; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 22; Sodium (mg): 1210; Cholesterol (mg): 210; Fiber (g): 2;

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

Who says you can’t have indulgent comfort food on a weeknight? Be sure to use a broiler-safe skillet, such as a cast-iron one.

Serves: 4

Ingredients
Kosher salt
12 oz. dried spiral pasta, such as cavatappi, rotini, or double elbows
3 Tbs. unsalted butter
3 Tbs. all-purpose flour
2 cups low-fat (2%) milk
4 oz. grated Emmentaler (1-1/4 cups)
4 oz. grated Gruyère (1-1/4 cups)
1 Tbs. Dijon mustard
1 Tbs. Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
Freshly ground black pepper
3 oz. finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (3 cups)

Directions

Position a rack about 4 inches from the broiler and heat the broiler on high.

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until just tender. Drain well and set aside.

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a 12-inch ovenproof skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and continue whisking until well combined, about 15 seconds. Whisk in the milk and continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, 1 to 2 minutes.

Add the Emmentaler, Gruyère, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme and whisk until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth, 2 minutes. Stir in the pasta to coat with the sauce. Off the heat, season to taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the Parmigiano-Reggiano evenly over the pasta.

Broil until the top is browned, 3 to 4 minutes, and serve.

Serving suggestions:

To get your veggies in, serve with sweet, salty, and tangy Balsamic-Bacon Vinaigrette Sauce over steamed broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or broccolini.

Susie Middleton is editor at large for Fine Cooking magazine.

This main course salad has it all: tender greens, crisp radishes, sweet pineapple, beefy steak, and a bright, fresh dressing that packs a bit of heat, too. Look for peeled and cut fresh pineapple in the produce section of your supermarket; it’s a great time-saver.

Serves: 4

Ingredients

For the dressing

5 Tbs. pineapple juice
1 Tbs. soy sauce
1 Tbs. peanut oil
1 Tbs. Asian sesame oil
2 tsp. fresh lime juice
1/2 tsp. honey
1/2 tsp. finely grated fresh ginger
1 small clove garlic, minced
Large pinch crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup small-diced fresh pineapple
1 Tbs. finely chopped fresh cilantro

For the steak:

1 lb. flank steak
1-1/2 Tbs. vegetable oil; more for the grill
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the salad:

6 oz. torn butter lettuce (about 6 lightly packed cups)
1 medium cucumber, seeded and thinly sliced
3 radishes, thinly sliced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup thinly sliced scallion (both white and light-green parts)

Heat a gas grill to medium high.

Make the dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk the pineapple juice, soy sauce, peanut oil, sesame oil, lime juice, honey, ginger, garlic, and pepper flakes to blend. Stir in the pineapple and cilantro.

Cook the steak:

Rub the steak with the oil and season with 1 tsp. each salt and pepper. Clean and oil the grill grates. Grill the steak, covered, until it has nice grill marks on one side, 5 to 6 minutes. Flip and reduce the heat to medium. Cook, covered, until done to your liking, an additional 4 to 5 minutes for medium rare. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes.

Assemble the salad:

In a large bowl, toss the lettuce, cucumber, and radishes with about half of the dressing. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Divide among 4 large plates.

Thinly slice the steak across the grain and drape it over the greens. Drizzle some of the remaining dressing over the beef, sprinkle with the scallions, and serve.

Serving suggestions

Serve with crisp Toasted Pitas with Black Sesame Seeds and Sumac.

Nutrition information (per serving):
Calories (kcal): 360; Fat (g): 22; Fat Calories (kcal): 190; Saturated Fat (g): 6; Protein (g): 33; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 9; Carbohydrates (g): 8; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 5; Sodium (mg): 760; Cholesterol (mg): 60; Fiber (g): 1;