Make Ahead

Accompaniment: Fresh Tomato Salsa

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires addtional resting time.

The non-stick mini-muffin tins required for this recipe are available at many supermarkets.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Make these little cakes using four 10-ounce mini-bundt pans (not non-stick). Ten-ounce ramekins would also work.

Sue Shadley of Indianapolis, Indiana, says that the biscotti from The Bakehouse in Bloomington are addictive. These can be baked three weeks ahead and frozen, making them an ideal Christmas gift.

Named for the four fruits that go into this recipe, the drink is a refreshing accompaniment to brunch at Sarabeth's restaurant in New York.

The apple-essence syrup is brushed over the cake to infuse it with flavor and make it extra-moist. If you prefer, substitute apple cider for the brandy.

The broth that accumulates at the bottom of this casserole is delicious spooned over the vegetables. Robiola, a fresh, rindless cheese from Italy's Piedmont, has a tangy richness that makes the dish particularly distinctive.

"While visiting Santa Fe, New Mexico, we dined at La Casa Sena restaurant and had a mesclun salad with an unusual balsamic-vinegar dressing," says Billie Ingram of Fairfax, Virginia. "Could you please get the recipe for us?" Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

To prevent fingerprints or smudges, wear thin cotton gloves* while handling the eggs.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.