This mix and match entertaining menu lets you choose the flavors you crave while keeping the cooking speedy—each recipe takes less than 45 minutes, and of course you can work on more than one at a time. Start off with a bowlful of addictive spiced nuts (you can make them up to a week in advance). Then pick one starter, one main dish, and one side dish from the recipes here, and you’ll have a very special dinner ready in no time. Could holiday entertaining be any easier?

Menu combinations for any occasion

Mixed Greens with Goat Cheese & Orange-Fennel Seed Vinaigrette
Smashed Parslied Potatoes
Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Caramelized Shallots & Red Wine

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Mixed Greens with Goat Cheese & Orange-Fennel Seed Vinaigrette
Broccoli with Black Olives, Garlic & Lemon
Prosciutto-Wrapped Halibut with Sage Butter Sauce

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Boston Lettuce Wedges with Mimosa Vinaigrette
Broccoli with Black Olives, Garlic & Lemon
Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Caramelized Shallots & Red Wine