Oven-Poached Salmon

This classic buffet dish is not only beautiful but also delicious hot or cold. Cutting the fish before cooking gives clean edges. To serve, garnish with more slices of lemon and fresh sprigs of parsley and thyme. Watercress mayonnaise makes a spring-fresh condiment to serve alongside (see below).

Tofu & Carrot Burgers With Tomato & Jalapeño Salsa

Spot Prawn Scampi

A delicacy prized for their sweet, succulent flavour, wild B.C. spot prawns are in season May through July. During the off-season, substitute with Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC)–certified large shrimp. You can use frozen spot prawns instead, but they tend to lose their nice texture when thawed.

Argentinian-Style Grilled Steak and Carrots

This steak is topped with a flavourful herb mixture, inspired by Argentinian chimichurri, that is also a nice accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish. If you don't have flank steak, substitute your favourite grilling steak. Cover and refrigerate any leftover chimichurri for up to three days. 

Shrimp, Scallop and Tomato Stew With Lemony Orzo

You can whip up this satisfying meal in minutes, but it tastes like it took hours of simmering. The three-ingredient lemony orzo soaks up the thick tomato-based sauce and gives the dish a citrusy zing. On another night, try the stew over rice or mashed potatoes.

Stuffed Roasted Artichokes

It takes a little practice to trim an artichoke – but practice makes perfect! Be careful of the tips because they are a little bit spiky. Rub all the cut edges, including the tops, with lemon juice to avoid discoloration.

Rosemary Garlic Baby Back Ribs

You can never go wrong with this crowd-pleaser. All you need are a few sides and a pile of napkins for this ultimate finger food. If using a charcoal barbecue, place drip pan in centre and arrange hot charcoal on either side. Set meat on greased grill over drip pan. Grill as directed. 

Smart Spaghetti and Meatballs

We've lightened up this classic Italian dish by using extra-lean ground turkey instead of the usual beef-and-pork combination. Whole wheat pasta and bread crumbs add an extra hit of fibre. Serve with a tossed green salad.

Sugared Pecan Fudge Squares

Each layer of these bars is a delicious treat on its own; together, they become the star of any goodie tray. To make them gluten-free, be sure to use oat flour that's labelled as such. If you choose not to use pasteurized egg whites, whisk a fresh egg white until frothy and measure out one tablespoon.

Sesame Mustard Salmon With Crispy Topping

Crusted salmon recipes are a dime a dozen, but this one is a little different: Toasting the panko mixture while the salmon bakes keeps the topping extra crunchy. It also lets you add as little or as much as you like.