Milanese Veal Stew

Sandra Proulx and Tracy Zambonin teamed up to open their personal-chef business, Cooks On The Run in Stittsville, Ont., after graduating from a culinary arts program last year. They have a knack for polishing up hearty dishes like this Italian stew. "This is a big hit with the young families we work with," says Proulx. "The kids like it because the meat and vegetables are in easy-to-manage pieces, while the grown-ups find it slightly sophisticated." Serve the stew with egg noodles to sop up the rich sauce; they cook in less time than it takes to reheat the stew.

Chicken Cacciatore and Polenta

Polenta squares topped with chicken cacciatore will bring make-it-again requests at home or for a potluck.

Chicken Zarzuela

Ground almonds thicken this Spanish zarzuela sauce, traditionally used with seafood. If you like potatoes, boil up a few, cut into chunks and add to the casserole before heating through.

Naked Green Chili Pork Burritos

Per serving
Restaurant cost $7.50
To make $3.83
Savings $3.67

Time-Saving Tip: This makes enough for six healthy servings. Making slightly larger portions at dinner and refrigerating the extras for the next day's lunch can save precious time in the morning.

Beef and Baguette with Dip

Shrimp Dumplings

A food processor makes quick work of these two-bite dumplings. Assemble them the night before for a fuss-free appetizer. Choose round or square wonton wrappers – the important point is that they're thin.

Shrimp and Tarragon Puffs

The size of the shrimp doesn't matter in these pastries. However, choose raw shrimp rather than cooked to ensure they don't overcook when baked. 

Steak and Cheese Quesadillas

Quesadillas — warm or cold — make great lunches or snacks. You can cook these in the skillet as directed or bake them in a 425°F (220°C) oven until crisp and golden, about 10 minutes.That way, you can make more.

Crown Roast of Pork with Prune and Bacon Stuffing

A crown roast is the perfect cut for tableside carving – and offers great value for feeding a crowd in style.

Easy Potato Salad With Pork Rib Chops

Tender pork rib chops and a lightened-up green bean and potato salad come together for an easy and well-rounded weeknight dish.