Liqueur

Pack the fruit and sauce separately, and keep the sauce chilled.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Rich, refreshing and easy — the perfect finale to an elegant summer dinner.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

Here's a fresh take on the classic combination of fruit and cheese. Placing parchment on top of the pears as they are poaching helps keep them moist and submerged in the poaching liquid.

Connie Capani of Binghamton, New York, writes:"I am 100 percent Italian, so perhaps it's no surprise that I love food: To Italians, it's like a security blanket. I learned how to make spaghetti and other Abruzzi favorites from my mother. Looking at food magazines is what got me interested in venturing out into American culinary territory. I wanted to know how to make a "gravy" that didn't include tomatoes. These days, I work only part-time as a substitute teacher, but I still don't want to be in the kitchen the whole time when my husband and I entertain. " Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

Use red or yellow watermelon (or both) for this summery dessert, and pair it with the best store-bought brownies you can find.

Great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Espresso and a selection of favorite liqueurs are good with the brownies.

Susan Zubert of Rochester, New York, writes: "Whenever my husband and I get to Maui we make a point of eating at one of our favorite restaurants, David Paul's Lahaina Grill. During our last visit, my husband ordered a fabulous berry pie. He enjoyed it so much that I was concerned he was going to pick up the plate and lick it clean. I would love to have the recipe." Fresh berries and crème de cassis (made with black currants) fill this flavorful pie. The addition of sour cream makes the crust exceptionally tender.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less, but requires additional unattended time.