Fall
Bay Scallops with Polenta, Wild Mushrooms, Sherry, and Parsley Bread Crumbs
Chef Suzanne Goin prepares this dish with Taylor Bay Scallops in the shell, but it's also delicious with regular bay scallops, which are more widely available. Be sure to use a good amontillado, the medium-dry Sherry that is lightly aged to give it a mellow, nutty flavor. What to drink: Condrieu, an aromatic Rhône white made with Viognier grapes.
Sweet Potato Croquettes
By Billie Tumblin
Wende's Blue-Ribbon Apple Pie with Candied Ginger
If you don't have apple brandy, simply substitute apple cider. In addition to the crystallized ginger, the cinnamon sugar sprinkled on the crust adds a lovely essence. To serve this very special pie, I suggest topping each slice with a bit of cheddar cheese.
Roasted Beet, Red Onion and Cranberry Relish
Tart, raw cranberries and horseradish add plenty of zip here. Begin preparing this at least a day before serving.