Oven Bake

It’s what the french call pain perdu, or "lost bread"—a dish that was created to revive day-old or stale baguettes. Here, hot and sweet, baked to a golden crisp, and dripping with syrup, you’ll find not a single thing is missing. Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 2 1/4 hr

In addition to being great with milk at breakfast time, this is nice sprinkled over yogurt, fruit or ice cream, or baked into your favorite granola cookies or bars.

Start this romantic supper with Russian caviar and ice-cold lemon vodka. The main course is a simplified but impressive interpretation of the Russian fish pie known as kulebiaka, which the French call coulibiac. Offer Champagne with the entrée, and finish the meal with babas au rhum from a French bakery to complete the cross-European elegance.

You don't have to cook the lasagna noodles first - just assemble the dish, cover and bake.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

For a particularly light and crunchy coating we used panko (coarse Japanese bread crumbs) on these crab cakes rather than regular bread crumbs. Panko is increasingly available in this country, not only in Asian markets but also in seafood shops.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Baked Chicken Breasts with Mushrooms and Artichokes in Sherry Sauce

(TORTINO DI PATATE ALLA PARMIGIANA) Gratins made from potatoes and other vegetables have long been a part of the country cooking around Parma. Here's a rich one that takes advantage of a star ingredient: Parmesan cheese. The dish is often served during Lent or on other meatless days.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Companion recipe to Smoked Fish Trio. These toasts would also be a simple and savory accompaniment to cocktails.

Accompaniment: Fresh Tomato Salsa

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.