Italian

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola Cheese)

An Italian take on the Cuban sandwich called media noche ("middle of the night").

Bruschetta — a rustic Italian canapé — is the perfect vehicle for the robust flavors of late summer. Serve these topped toasts as a first course or, with a salad and a glass of wine, as a light supper.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(RISOTTO WITH PARMESAN)

Grissini, long, thin breadsticks, are found at Italian markets and some supermarkets.

Cipolline in Agrodolce These onions — an homage to New York's Italian-American communities — are great as part of an antipasto or as a condiment for salty meats such as baked ham or duck confit. Although they are hard to resist as soon as they are cooked, the flavors continue to develop over a few days. Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 2 hr (plus 1 day for flavors to develop)

These are made with an Italian sourdough starter known as a biga, which has to be prepared one day ahead. Note that before baking the breadsticks, you can give them amusing shapes by forming one end of each dough rope into a squiggle, a loop, or whatever strikes your fancy.

These are great for a picnic. They taste even better when made a few hours ahead, which allows the flavors to blend.

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 2 hr

(BUDINO DI RISO CON PERE E LIMONE) Since this recipe contains no milk or egg, it has a lighter texture and fewer calories than standard rice pudding.

Partially freezing the tenderloin after searing it makes slicing easier.

(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.