Mediterranean menu


A Mediterranean Feast, Food Expert-Approved
Every part of this meal delivers rich flavor using light ingredients, from Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's marinated olives to the main event: a deliciously tangy and vibrant roasted chicken from food expert Michael Pollan. Kale salad and potatoes are simple but delicious accompaniments, and roasted pears with ricotta and honey round out the dinner.

Orange and Fennel Marinated Olives

Vinegar-Braised Chicken

Kale with Onions and Pine Nuts

Parsley Potatoes

Roasted Pears with Ricotta and Honey


Photos: John Kernick (olives), Coral von Zumwalt (others)
Light supper menu


A Not-Too-Heavy Supper with a Few Brilliant Surprises
There are some unexpected twists in this comforting meal, beginning with an arugula and apple salad dressed in a bracing apple-cider vinaigrette. Dinner includes a savory—and crustless—zucchini pie, chicken meatballs and garlicky bread with melted Parmesan. Chocolate pudding is an unexpected throwback at the end.

Arugula and Apple Salad with Cider Vinaigrette

Savory Zucchini Pie

Chicken Meatballs

Cheesy Garlic Bread

Warm Chocolate Pudding


Photos: Ron Manville (pie), Con Poulos (salad & meatballs), Thinkstock (others)
Homestyle


A Homestyle Dinner Your Guests Can Linger Over
Wild mushroom and mozzarella crostini kick off this comforting supper, followed by cauliflower soup, roast pork tenderloin and mashed potatoes that get a subtly sweet edge from pureed fennel. Old-fashioned Italian biscotti studded with cranberries and pistachios end the meal; send guests home with extras (they're great with morning coffee).

Crostini with Wild Mushrooms and Mozzarella

Cauliflower Soup with Crème Fraîche

Roast Pork Tenderloin

Potato and Fennel Puree

Cornmeal Biscotti with Cranberries and Pistachios

Next: Party apps that look way more complicated than they are

Photos: Thinkstock (crostini), Dana Gallagher (pork), Hannah Whitaker (biscotti), Chris Court (others)
Published 12/19/2013