Beet Borscht

Some weeks you need a big-batch soup to use up a ton of in-season veggies. This tangy-sweet soup fills the bill – it's great hot or cold, and freezes beautifully. This borscht is vegan on its own, but it's even tastier topped with a dollop of sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) and a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill.

Black Bean and Lime Chili Salad

When you add up the grams of fat in a taco salad of chili, fried tortilla bowl, full-fat cheese and sour cream, it comes to about 50 g. Our version features light Monterey Jack cheese, which is flavourful with 43 per cent less fat than the regular. And this salad is so delicious that you won't even miss the sour cream.

Lima Bean and Lamb Stew

There are a lot of spices in this stew, but don't be alarmed. Together they offer a taste right out of North Africa, where the traditional spice blend, ras el hanout, can combine up to 50 different spices. Serve over couscous or rice.

Moussaka-Style Lamb and Roasted Potatoes

Traditionally moussaka is a layered dish held together with a rich béchamel sauce. This low-maintenance recipe has a similar taste but you can make it with half the work, half the time and fewer calories. Ground beef can be used in lieu of lamb.

Cassoulet-Style Gratin

Orecchiette alla Fiorentina

Pasta and cheese is our family's favourite comfort food. How can you go wrong? Orecchiette ('little ears') is our preferred pastsa with this dish; however, you can always substitute your favourite.

Ratatouille Cheddar Bake

With all the sweet flavours of vegetables that ratatouille brings, this is a no-fail winner — and a delicious way to introduce eggplant to the household.

Creamy Tomato Pot Roast

Slow-cooking the beef in this saucy Swiss steak–inspired dish makes it extremely tender. You won't even have to slice the meat—just let it fall into pieces. Serve with classic Sunday-dinner side dishes, such as roasted potatoes and steamed peas. Freeze any leftover sauce in an airtight container for up to three weeks.

Pastitsio (Baked Macaroni & Meat Pie)

As a Greek, I get asked to bring a "Greek dish" to any gathering. Inevitably, each time I make this dish (whether a large or small group) I always get a follow up from a guest asking for the recipe. This recipe is from my Mom and is a longtime favourite of my son's so I try to make this at each family gathering.

Pan-Fried Tilapia with Ratatouille Sauce

Lean and well-balanced, this simple seafood supper will become a favourite in your weeknight dinner repertoire. Add a side of fluffy Whole Grain Couscous (see recipe link below) to round out the meal.