Our 15 Favorite Recipes From Food Wines September Issue

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  Food and Wine on Wed, Aug 13th, 2025

15 Favorite Recipes from Food & Wine That You'll Want to Make Again and Again

Classic Roast Chicken with Herbs: This recipe starts with a whole chicken rubbed with a mixture of fresh thyme, rosemary, and garlic, then roasted to golden perfection. The secret lies in brining the bird overnight for extra juiciness and crisping the skin under high heat. It's a staple for its simplicity—requiring just a handful of pantry staples—and its versatility, pairing well with roasted vegetables or a simple salad. Home cooks rave about how it fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making it ideal for family gatherings.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A velvety blend of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, this soup is simmered with onions and garlic for depth. Puree it smooth and garnish with Parmesan croutons for added texture. What sets it apart is the balance of acidity from the tomatoes and the herbal brightness, making it a comforting choice for chilly evenings. It's quick to prepare in under 30 minutes, yet tastes like it simmered all day.

Grilled Lemon-Herb Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are marinated in a zesty mix of lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and parsley before hitting the grill. The result is flaky, flavorful fish with a charred exterior. This dish shines in summer barbecues but works year-round on a grill pan. Fans love its health benefits—packed with omega-3s—and how it pairs with quinoa or asparagus for a light, nutritious meal.

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cakes: Individual molten cakes ooze with warm chocolate centers, made from a batter of dark chocolate, butter, eggs, and a hint of espresso for intensity. Bake them just until set, and serve with vanilla ice cream. These are a dessert showstopper, perfect for date nights, thanks to their dramatic presentation and rich, indulgent flavor that satisfies any chocolate craving.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Ginger Soy Sauce: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots tossed in a tangy sauce of soy, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Stir-fry over high heat for crisp-tender veggies, and add tofu or chicken for protein. It's celebrated for its speed—ready in 15 minutes—and adaptability, making it a weeknight hero for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are boiled until tender, then mashed with copious amounts of butter, cream, and roasted garlic for a silky texture. Season with salt, pepper, and chives for freshness. This side dish is a comfort food classic, often requested at holidays for its creamy consistency and how it complements roasts or stews.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Succulent shrimp are sautéed with chili powder, cumin, and lime, then tucked into warm corn tortillas with cabbage slaw and avocado. Drizzle with a cilantro-lime crema for creaminess. These tacos burst with bold flavors and are quick to assemble, earning praise for their street-food vibe that's easy to recreate at home.

Apple Crisp with Oat Topping: Tart Granny Smith apples are baked under a crunchy streusel of oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Serve warm with whipped cream. It's a fall favorite for its nostalgic appeal and straightforward prep, using seasonal fruit to create a dessert that's both rustic and satisfying.

Pesto Pasta Primavera: Al dente pasta tossed with homemade basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and asparagus. Add Parmesan for nuttiness. This vibrant dish highlights fresh produce and is ready in 20 minutes, making it a go-to for light, summery meals that feel gourmet without the fuss.

Beef Bourguignon: A hearty French stew featuring tender beef chunks braised in red wine with carrots, mushrooms, onions, and bacon. Slow-cook it for hours to develop rich flavors. It's adored for its depth and how it transforms humble ingredients into an elegant main course, perfect for cozy winter dinners.

Fresh Berry Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: Mixed greens, strawberries, blueberries, feta cheese, and walnuts dressed in a tangy balsamic reduction. This salad is refreshing and versatile, often served as a starter or light lunch, with its sweet-tart contrast making it a hit among health-conscious eaters.

Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust: A buttery crust topped with a tangy lemon curd filling, dusted with powdered sugar. Bake until set and chill for easy slicing. These bars are a crowd-pleaser for their bright citrus punch and portability, ideal for picnics or potlucks.

Chicken Parmesan: Breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, baked to bubbly perfection. Serve over spaghetti for a complete meal. It's a family favorite for its crispy exterior and cheesy goodness, evoking Italian-American comfort.

Quinoa Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with a mix of quinoa, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices, then baked until tender. Top with cheese for extra indulgence. This vegetarian option is nutritious and filling, praised for its make-ahead convenience and bold Southwestern flavors.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Homemade custard churned with real vanilla beans for authentic specks and flavor. Use an ice cream maker for creamy results, or no-churn methods for simplicity. It's the ultimate base for sundaes, loved for its pure taste and how it elevates fresh fruits or baked goods.