Peppermint Patty Sandwich Cookies

The combination of peppermint and chocolate is a holiday winner. The dark chocolate dough is ideal for cutting into all sorts of holiday shapes, such as holly. (From "Festive Cookies" in the December issue of Canadian Living.)

Broccoli and Pancetta Saute

Instead of the same old boiled broccoli, try a slow saute. A kick of garlic and pancetta brings this healthy green back to life. With 1 cup (250 mL) cooked broccoli serving up more vitamin C than a glass of orange juice, there's no more delicious way to boost immunity.

Negroni Spritzer

The Negroni is an aperitif, or predinner drink, intended to stimulate appetites with the bitter Italian aperitif Campari. For best flavour, choose a full-bodied gin, such as Beefeater or Gordon's.

Blackberry Hazelnut Meringue

Like hazelnut nougat, this meringue is chewier and softer than one in a traditional pavlova. The meringue spreads by about 2.5 cm (1 inch) when baking, so ensure your baking sheet is large enough to accommodate it. You can make the meringue a couple of days in advance and keep it well-wrapped in a dry room. We sprinkled the whipped cream with coarsely chopped skinned hazelnuts.

Barbecue Side-Burner Rice

Cook this on the barbecue side-burner or in the microwave oven.

Whole Wheat Pasta with Peppers, Tomatoes and Olives

Pantry ingredients plus fresh sweet peppers add up to a colourful must-have dish. Serve with Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over top.

Pan-Fried Scallops with Citrus Squash Purée

Ginger Lamb Burgers

Lamb is especially good with flavourful additions, as in this Chinese-inspired recipe. Fresh ground lamb is often available; frozen ground lamb from New Zealand is also convenient. Serve the burgers on buns with lettuce, tomato and hot mustard, or make them a meal with rice or potatoes and a salad or side vegetable.

Cornmeal Green Onion Biscuits

As the butter melts during baking, the layers of dough separate to make light, quick and easy biscuits. Green onions add a flavourful fresh lift.

Strawberry Ice-Cream Shortcake

Neighbours can share the production of this inviting dessert. One can make the cake while others bring the ice cream and berries.