Gourmet

This salad is as versatile as it is delicious. We loved it with squid and with shrimp. Add a loaf of crusty bread, and you've got a complete meal. Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 20 min

Canned mangoes are excellent in this dessert if ripe fresh ones are unavailable. Use a drained (1-lb 14-oz) can of mango slices in syrup. If the canned fruits you buy are Alphonso mangoes (our favorite variety of mango), add an additional 1/2 cup cream.

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 20 min

With months to go before the summer tomato season, we've found that slow-roasting brings out the flavor of winter plum tomatoes.

A low-fat alternative to beef, ground buffalo is becoming increasingly available.

After making this flavorful dressing in the processor, we give it a whirl in the blender for the smoothest texture. Crisp iceberg lettuce stands up best to this thick dressing. Active time: 10 min Start to finish: 15 min

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

We found that using a blender to begin the emulsion process for aïoli is much faster than pounding by hand from start to finish, which is the traditional method. Once using the mortar, resist the impulse to add the oil quickly — it will cause the mixture to separate. All the slow stirring requires a strong arm, so you may want to recruit a friend to help (especially because you need to make the aïoli in two batches). Very fresh garlic is crucial to this recipe. Bulbs should have smooth, tight skin and be firm and heavy for their size, with no green shoots.

This gelato, named after Bernardo Buontalenti, a sixteenth-century Florentine who may have been one of the world's original ice-cream makers, is made with any number of flavorings. The "secret" ingredient is usually a liqueur (such as Di Saronno Amaretto). A delicious alternative would be a pinch of mixed spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. This foamy custard is a traditional Italian dessert. Delicious with no accompaniment at all, it's even better spooned over fresh fruit or served with biscotti. Be sure to have anything else you plan to serve with the zabaglione ready to go, as it really is best eaten just seconds off the stove.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.