Choose the correct adverb to fill in the blank:

The chef prepared the meal __________, using fresh ingredients and culinary expertise.

tastefully

The correct answer is option (2) tastefully.

An adverb is needed to describe how the chef prepared the meal. "Tastefully" is the appropriate adverb here as it describes the manner in which he prepared, indicating that he prepared with good taste or style. Options (1), (3), and (4) are not adverbs and do not appropriately describe the manner of preparation.