You can cook this nut mix up to a week in advance and keep it from-the-oven fresh in an airtight container stored at room temperature.

Get the recipe: Rosemary Pecans

Some spreads actually taste better when they’ve had a few days to sit and “meld.”

Get the recipe: Goat Cheese Spread

Mushrooms are little sponges and soak up all the great flavors of a marinade when made in advance for an easy hors d'oeuvres recipe.

Get the recipe: Marinated Mushrooms