Flavoured with mushrooms, this broth is an elegant, light start to any fancy meal. Dried mushrooms add intense flavour, and fresh mushrooms have a tender texture.
This elegant yet earthy risotto serves six as a main course or eight as an appetizer. Add a sprinkle of truffle oil or Parmesan cheese for flair.
Using ground beef instead of stir-fry beef keeps the cost down. Day-old rice works best, so if you can, cook it in advance. Cost: $3.25/serving
Before: The original recipe's marinade (more than needed) has 1/2 cup (125 mL) oil. The dish has 1/2 cup (125 mL) feta cheese for garnish. After: This lightened-up version reduces oil, feta and olives. In season, use 2 tbsp (25 mL) chopped fresh oregano instead of the dried.
A little curry powder gives this rice dish a quick flavour boost. If you can't find a fresh pomegranate, add the same amount of golden raisins, dried currants or chopped dried apricots instead.
Smoked trout transforms this spring-fresh potato salad into a filling meal. Look for it in the refrigerated seafood section of your supermarket, or alongside cured meats. Serve with crusty bread.
This recipe combines family-favourite ingredients chicken and cheese, taking the guesswork out of planning weeknight dinner.
Serve with: Parboiled Rice, Broccoli
This meatless appetizer takes its flavour cues from the always-popular antipasto platters that are prized in Italy. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing.
The chunky Kalamata olive salsa adds a welcome touch of freshness to this tilapia dish. Use the same salsa recipe to top pan-fried chicken or spread on crusty bread as an appetizer on another night. Serve with lemon wedges.
