When friends and family gather to celebrate a school milestone, the menu needs to satisfy a wide variety of appetites, including—and especially—that of the grad. We’ve given such kid-friendly faves as pizza, potato salad, and ice cream all-grown-up twists. The results skip culinary pomp and circumstance, but will still get top marks from grads and grandmas alike.

May/June 2009 p.54

Confetti Slaw

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Fresh herbs and spicy jalapeño give a classic cookout favorite a gourmet feel. For added color, try using half red cabbage, half green cabbage, and an assortment of bell peppers.

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Warm Potato Salad Primavera

Not Yet Rated

A pesto made with spinach and arugula dresses this salad instead of mayonnaise.

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Caramelized Onion Tart

Not Yet Rated

Think of this tart as an homage to students’ penchant for pizza.

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Ice Cream-Strawberry Strata

Everyone loves ice cream cake, but why buy one when you can make this lavish-looking dessert in no time?

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  Strawberry Gazpacho with Lime Cilantro Cream

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  Baby Romaine Salad with Date Vinaigrette

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  Honey-Mustard Broccoli Salad

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  Carrot Dip with Crushed Walnuts and Olives

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  Beet-and-Lentil Hummus

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  Cuban-Style Black Beans with Rice and Plantains

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  Vegan Sugar Cookies

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  Mixed Green Salad with Maple-Nut Clusters and Blueberry Dressing

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  Savory Burritos with Chunky Avocado Salsa