For a light entree on a summer night, this dish is just the ticket. Salting and draining the zucchini and tomatoes before baking prevents them from releasing excess moisture as they bake, so the gratin stays firm, not soggy.
Italian ragus tend to be long-simmered dishes, but a French ragout is a quicker affair, a thick, cheesy stew. Tossed over pasta, this one is a true fusion, a halfway point between ragu and ragout.
We used whole-grain bread to make this sandwich, but the combination of fresh vegetables and cheese also works well tucked inside pita bread or a whole-wheat wrap.
We use crisp radishes for a bit of crunch and spiciness in this Crab Salad Sandwich. You can also use chopped fennel, celery, thinly sliced fresh apple, or matchsticks of jicama as alternatives.
This never-fails pear recipe turns out moist, firm and fruity every time. Some members of our family request these rich squares instead of cake for their birthdays.
Bring out the subtle, earthy flavor of pork tenderloin with dried fruits and apple juice. The port in the sauce adds extra sweetness that balances the kick of the kick of the Dijon mustard. Best of all, the pork cooks in about six minutes.
This was the best cookie that I have had. And so worth the tiny bite. Soft, chewy, and packed with amazing flavor. They baked perfectly and stayed soft.
I made this on a whim one Sunday morning when friends called and said they planned to drop by in the afternoon. It makes a lot, and I was able to serve our friends and the neighbors a casual supper. The seasonings and green chilies give the meat a spicy kick and taste fantastic with cool sour cream and fresh salsa.
This bark makes a lovely holiday gift from the kitchen. Fill a plate or cup with candy, then gather up clear cellophane around it and tie with red and green ribbons. —Susan Wacek, Pleasanton, California
