For fluffier mashed potatoes, try this: After boiling and draining the spuds, return them to the pot. Stir over low heat for several minutes, until all the moisture has evaporated, and then mash as usual.

This centerpiece of pull-apart rolls rises to the occasion. 

Use your favorite recipe (or try the Parker House Rolls). Roll dough into sixteen 1 1/2-inch balls. Arrange in a ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with butter, sprinkle on parsley, rosemary, or thyme; bake as directed. Serve on a cake stand atop a bed of whole herbs.

Keep bugs, leaves, and other unwelcome guests from joining you for drinks by topping glasses with these jaunty little hats (otherwise known as baking cups). Cut a small X into the center of each liner, poke a straw through the hole, and enjoy your beverage worry- (and pest-) free.

Paper cups, fancyflours.com.

Create an hors d'oeuvre centerpiece that recalls a vegetable patch. Buy a large, deep galvanized-metal planter from a garden-supply center, line the bottom with sprouts, and pour in enough water to moisten them. Arrange vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, carrots, radishes, asparagus, and cauliflower, in sections inside the container, varying the colors. Serve immediately with herb dip, or cover with moist paper towels and refrigerate up to 2 hours.

Herb Dip Recipe

Here's a potion kids are sure to love. Among the ingredients are cinnamon candies that give it zing. Stir 1 quart apple cider and 1/4 cup hard cinnamon candies in a medium saucepan over low heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until heated through and candies have melted completely, about 8 minutes. Serve warm.