If you’re not much of a tofu fan, there is a chance this Hoisin Tofu Salad could change your mind. I am a huge tofu fan, particularly when it comes to extra firm tofu. It has a satisfying texture, is capable of taking on just about any flavor, and is as cheap as chips. Personally, I find it as satisfying as meat. And while that may not be true for you and is potentially blasphemous to suggest, I still think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by this tofu. Why? Because it’s hands down the best tofu I’ve ever made and I’ve made a lot of tofu. So if you’re game, let’s make it.

Sometimes the extra mile isn’t that far down the road. Take this Fresh Fig Salad for example. I think we can all agree this dish looks pretty fancy. It has segmented orange slices, whipped ricotta, and figs, arguably the fanciest fruit. So yeah, it’s a little over the top. But while this salad looks high-end, it’s actually fairly simple to pull off. And it’s so satisfying, you could serve it as the main event to much fanfare. There are certainly a few components to this dish and it does unfortunately generate its fair share of dirty dishes. But there is a lot here that you can make ahead, and as I mentioned, make this salad and a dessert and call it a day. Your dinner guests will not be left wanting.