Classic Steamed Crab

We prefer steaming over boiling because it prevents fresh crab from becoming waterlogged—and adding ingredients such as herbs, garlic and citrus during cooking enhances the crustacean's natural sweetness.

Fig and Cranberry Mincemeat Tartlets

Mini mincemeat tarts get a modern update with the addition of figs, dried cranberries and honey.

Butternut Squash Gnocchi alla Romana

These Gnocchi alla Romana are infused with rosemary, garlic and sage while the butternut squash is caramelizing and roasting in the oven. The squash is then added to the polenta like dough while cooking on the stove top. It was a winner and a technique I will use over and over again.

Ugly Sweater Cookies

No ugly sweater party is complete without these themed cookies! The gaudier the better, so let the kids' imaginations run wild with endless candy and colour combinations. Reserve some of the icing to use for decorating, and pipe stripes and patterns onto the sweaters, if desired.

Cornish Hens with Quinoa Stuffing

Réveillon Tourtière

When it's time for réveillon (a special feast on Christmas Eve in Quebec), this is the pie that welcomes everyone to the table. The super-flaky crust is loaded to the brim with a subtly seasoned meat filling.

Gingerbread Gift Cake

The flavour of gingerbread cookies magically becomes a fork-friendly moist cake complete with candy decor. Gather little hands to help decorate and many mouths to help devour this sweet holiday treat. For the best gift-wrapped look, choose 1-inch (2.5 cm) wide fruit leather candy strips.

Herb-Stuffed Leg of Lamb & Potato Medley

This lamb dish is a wonderful option for Passover.

Partridge or Pheasant Pie

Partridge and pheasant both have delicate chickenlike meat with a distinct boost of flavour. This celebratory pie will be a hit.

Tourtiere recipe and instructions

Tourtiere is the creme de la creme of pies. Lightly spiced and herbed, this pork pie is especially anticipated for Christmas Eve celebrations, but it's equally tasty throughout the holidays and winter months. Tourtiere is completely make-ahead, delicious when turkey or chicken take over for pork and perfectly complemented by a tangy relish such as chili sauce.