Sour Cream

Espresso, chocolate and orange star in a very rich, very elegant cheesecake.

Nothing says summer quite like a barbecue, and here's a recipe for the grill that's sure to become a standard in your repertoire. Serve with the corn and tomato salad, and crusty rolls. Pour a dry red wine, such as Zinfandel or Merlot, and bring out a batch of your favorite brownies for dessert.

A luscious tropical treat enhanced with a delicious crust made of gingersnap cookies and macadamia nuts. Begin preparing this one day before you plan to serve it.

Preparing for the Super Bowl? Think bread bowl. This spinach dip is housed in a hollowed-out loaf of bread. Choose pumpernickel or sourdough and have other items for dipping on hand—those bread bites go fast!

Usually clam sauce is loaded with cream and butter. Here, only a touch is needed in a lighter version of an old favorite.

The almond-scented blueberry filling is sprinkled with a pecan topping.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

To save time, simply skip the topping.

A typical chili of the depression years consisted of cheap meat stretched by even cheaper beans. Chili remained modestly popular even when the hard times waned, until Lyndon Johnson boosted its national profile during the 1960s. Now chili is back and bigger than ever. Even with the modern addition of smoked jalapeños (chipotles), the inclusion of black beans and beer, and a stylish drizzle of lime crema, this recipe is a classic-hot, hearty and filling.

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 1 3/4 hr

Whether you're watching the Super Bowl or just having friends over for a party, these potatoes are a great hors d'oeuvre. Feel free to double the recipe if you're expecting a big crowd.