Parmesan

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Crusty bread and a salad complete the meal.

Polenta is often made at the last minute on the stove. Since this version is baked, it's a great do-ahead dish.

This recipe was created to accompany Mozzarella, Arugula and Marinated Tomatoes on Focaccia .

For a vegetarian version, substitute canned vegetable broth for the chicken broth; the result is equally delicious.

Canned tuna sparked with lemon and capers creates a superb sauce that complements many pasta shapes — penne, shells, or linguine, to name only a few. I prefer solid-pack tuna in olive oil for the best flavor and texture. I sometimes add a small handful of unpitted black olives — Kalamata or Gaeta — and a large, ripe tomato, seeded and diced, for a delicious variation. Italians would never serve cheese with fish, but you have my permission to break the rules!

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.