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A zesty lobster salad instantly turns avocado toast into an elegant and cocktail party–worthy hors d'oeuvre.

This classic French spiced bread is great for sweet toast in the morning, or it can be sliced thinly and served with pâté for a pretty party appetizer.

It doesn't get simpler—or more elegant—than crème fraîche and caviar tartlets alongside a glass of sparkling wine.

You know you love Brussels sprouts and bacon, but have you ever tried Brussels sprouts and bacon jam? You (and your hungry party guests) are in for a surprising treat.

Pickled grapes make a refreshingly sweet-tart companion to rich country pâté in this simple bite-size appetizer.

We've made this classic French spread even easier by using smoked salmon in place of the more traditional poached fish.

Most people don't know escarole from escargot, but that's okay. Just know that escarole is a delicious leafy green vegetable that's high in vitamin C. Leeks, which resemble large scallions, have a slightly oniony flavor. Here, I've used both in a main-meal soup that is filling and nutritious. Try sprinkling a little smoked paprika over the soup before adding the cheese-it will give a sweet, smoky, slightly spicy flavor.

This is how we make chicken bone broth at home. If you'd like, you can switch out the herbs and vegetables for others you prefer. For example, you could add leeks, celery, or a different type of onion. Roast the vegetables first for added depth of flavor and color. Be sure to keep the ingredients covered by adding water just to cover through- out the simmering process. The pot can be left overnight to simmer on your stove; however, be sure there is enough liquid in the pot before you go to bed, and keep the flame low. Too much evaporation will result in a burnt batch.

Fresh Dill Cucumbers with Lemon

That parsley in your fridge is lonely! Let it hang with chiles and walnuts for your next weeknight pasta.

You can cook the eggs a day ahead (keep them chilled), but don’t slice until the first guest rings the doorbell.

Sure, this recipe can make standard-size latkes, but the minis are just right for noshing while chatting.

This classic, creamy soup is brightened with fresh ginger.

A make ahead recipe of tomatoes with marinated artichokes, salami and smoked cheese for a flavorful topper on toasted baguette bread

Any combination of nuts and seeds will be fine, so feel free to finish up any odds and ends you have around.

This soup is a terrific choice for those over sixty, as it's abundant in nutrients one especially needs later in life. These include healthy plant protein (older adults are prone to protein insufficiency), fiber, vitamin K, potassium, lysine to aid in calcium absorption, and folate to help reduce homocysteine levels, which are a major risk factor for heart disease. And of course, all soups are soft and so are a favorite for anyone with dental difficulties.