Many of Lidia Bastianich's best culinary creations begin with two words: “Company's coming!” The Emmy Award-winning public television host, restaurateur and best-selling cookbook author has a flair for entertaining guests that runs the gamut from extravagant to simple – from a formal sit-down dinner or a holiday gathering, to a buffet, barbecue or football game watch party with an array of hors d'oeuvres that exceeds “chips and dip” expectations.

“Some of the best times are spent at the table with family and friends, and there is always room for a celebration of that, whether it's an official party or just a regular Saturday afternoon,” she says.