Esther Reynolds

Credit: Grant Webster Prep Time: 25 mins Cook Time: 40 mins Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins Servings: 9 For a fall treat, this moist and delicious pumpkin spice cake recipe can’t be beat. It’s a quick and easy snacking cake made with canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, which gives it a wonderfully warm flavor. You won’t need any special equipment to make it, just a couple of mixing bowls and a whisk. The recipe calls for a 9-inch square pan, but a loaf pan works well, too.

Zucchini and Yellow Squash Gratin 1:10 Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 20 mins Total Time: 35 mins Servings: 4 Creamy and satisfying with just the right amount of crunch, this zucchini and summer squash gratin makes a fantastic accompaniment to lighter proteins like chicken and seafood. We par-cook the squash first, which draws out excess liquid, softens them, and infuses them with flavor from the shallots and garlic.

Cayenne Rubbed Chicken 5:40 Prep Time: 15 mins Total Time: 30 mins Servings: 4 Sometimes the simplest recipes are the best; this fast and easy chicken dinner proves it. The recipe calls for just five basic ingredients—chicken, cayenne pepper, avocado, red onion, and lime juice— and it can be on the table in 30 minutes. We use chicken cutlets because they’re ready in a flash and tend to cook more evenly than thicker breasts.