The transformation of butter, sugar, and salt into toffee is culinary alchemy at its best. This version is studded with cocktail peanuts and a decadent layer of bittersweet chocolate.
If you don't have (or can't spare) a cast-iron skillet, sauté the apples and onions in any heavy skillet and transfer to a buttered 8x8" glass dish for baking.
The ribs should be seasoned and chilled overnight before cooking. WHAT TO DRINK: Stick with Cabernet and try a selection. Two we love are the rich, ripe 2005 Blend No. 815 from Joel Gott(Sonoma, $17) and...
This beautiful pastis - a sweet phyllo-wrapped pie that evolved in southwest France from the savory meat-filled _b'stilla_s of Morocco - makes an impressive holiday dessert.
Canned chickpeas are perfect for this one-pot dish because they become even more creamy as they warm in the cooking liquid. In case you're not a fan, you can go with whatever canned bean you like.
You can substitute any color of rice or quinoa to make this gorgeous (and healthful) salad, which works as a vegetarian main course or hearty side dish.