Ham

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. This southern-style main course is especially good with steamed green beans, some old-fashioned potato salad, sliced tomatoes and buttermilk biscuits. End with lemon sherbet and sugar cookies.

Here are potatoes with Italian flavor.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(PROSCIUTTO E MELONE) The delicate pink cured ham from the hills of the province of Parma is one of Emilia's most important products. Purists insist it should be served on its own or with a slice of bread, but others enjoy it with melon, figs or pears; the sweetness of the fruit sets off the prosciutto's salty tinge perfectly. This simple dish is a classic example. Pour a dry white Albana di Romagna or Trebbiano di Romagna. If you can't find one of those, go for a Verdicchio from the neighboring region of the Marches.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola Cheese)

An Italian take on the Cuban sandwich called media noche ("middle of the night").

If the crowd is larger than eight, make two frittatas and keep one warm. Served in wedges, frittatas are delicious hot, warm, or at room temperature.

Grissini, long, thin breadsticks, are found at Italian markets and some supermarkets.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Crisp, freshly cooked shrimp are wrapped in prosciutto slices, then set atop a salad of roasted peppers, garbanzo beans and artichokes tossed with a tangy dressing.