Weeknight Meal Planner: 02/19/18 

Just a touch of fresh lemon and tarragon add a subtle touch of sophistication to an otherwise classic and wholly comforting pot of chicken and dumplings. Done in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for any night of the week. While we went with a super simple drop biscuit for the dumplings, feel free to try using canned biscuit dough or your own favorite dumpling recipe here. 

This shrimp fettuccine alfredo recipe, which calls for quick-cooking refrigerated pasta, is a great go-to dish for hectic weekights.  Serve with a side of roasted asparagus. 

Scallops come one of two ways: wet or dry. Ask at the fish counter for dry scallops, which are in their natural state, have a milder, purer flavor than wet scallops, and sear beautifully. 

Butternut squash puree enhances the color of this one-dish wonder without distracting from the cheesy flavor, and it sneaks in another serving of vegetables.

This dish comes together in just one pan, making for quick cleanup and tons of flavor as the elements build on each other.

These macaroons are the most delicious we've ever tasted in the Sunset Test Kitchen. The recipe comes from Karen Dannenbaum of Topanga, California, who inherited it from her mother, Elsa, an outstanding cook.