Party Planner: Sunday Supper

Weeknight cooking is all about dishes that are quick, satisfying, and easy to make ahead — especially now, with back-to-school season in full swing. But on the weekends, cooks can take the time to prepare a special, delicious meal that families can sit down together and savor. Here’s a Sunday supper the whole family will love, with helpful tips for pulling it off.

 

 

Few meals are more comforting than spaghetti and meatballs — it’s a favorite for kids and adults. Our version gets a healthy makeover with the use of ground turkey instead of beef, with plenty of flavor from fresh and dried herbs. On the side, serve this harvest salad with blue cheese and roasted pears and simple broccolini topped with sweet peppers.

 

A special dinner calls for dessert, and this bittersweet chocolate pudding is guaranteed to hit the spot. Add whipped cream, fresh berries or shaved chocolate to take it over the top.

 

 

 

• 1 day ahead: Form the meatballs and refrigerate in an airtight container. Make the chocolate pudding and refrigerate.
• Day of: Roast the pears for the salad.
• Just before serving: Cook the broccolini. Cook the meatballs and finish the spaghetti. Make the salad.

 

Pasta dishes are perfect for serving family style. You can serve this one right out of the pot you cook it in — just bring it to the table and place on a wooden board. Don’t forget to pass around a wedge of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for grating.

 

Picky eaters in the house? Serve dishes so everyone can customize them to their tastes. For example, place the peppers in a separate ramekin instead of sprinkling them on top of the broccolini.

 

Think ahead! Make extra meatballs and sauce for next week’s lunch boxes, or add roasted pears to future salads. Let the extra time you spend in the kitchen this weekend keep working for you throughout the week.