Overhead view of a chocolate chess pie served on a white marble surface with whipped cream and ripe, halved figs. A glass of port is nearby.

Chocolate Chess Pie NEEDS PIE CRUST

A simple upgrade makes this humble pie more luxurious than it has any right to be.
Steamed mussels, served with a bowl of fries and a ramekin of aîoli. A glass of white wine is nearby.

Moules Frites

One route to happiness: plump mussels, rich broth, crisp fries, garlicky aïoli, and crusty bread.
Overhead view of salted chanterelle mushrooms in a mixing bowl. A Dutch oven containing olive oil and garlic, shallot, and fresh herbs is nearby.

Mushroom Confit

These rich mushrooms take a long, lazy bath in garlic and herb-infused olive oil. A splash of sherry vinegar and a pinch of smoked paprika balances their richness.
Profile view of a slice of olive oil cake perched on the blade of a chef's knife over a small serving plate. The rest of the cake is visible in the background, slightly out of focus.

Olive Oil Cake

The perfect "anytime" cake.
Closeup of a portion of hot-smoked salmon placed on a cooling rack set over a quarter sheet pan.

Hot-Smoked Salmon

Hot-smoked salmon: an easy smoking project with impressive results.