Nut

The nutty topping is the perfect complement to the sweet-and-tart filling.

Cocoa, espresso and orange add a sophisticated note to a classic pecan pie.

Here's a simple and versatile pesto: It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, and a spoonful of it enhances everything from soup to chili. Add three cups of diced cooked chicken to the pasta to make a satisfying main course that serves four.

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

At the inn, the cake is decorated with Frangelico-flavored whipped cream and garnished with chocolate-covered almonds. Begin preparing the dessert a day ahead.

Two New Orleans favorites — catfish and pecans — team up in this terrific dish from Upperline Restaurant.

We've added a topping of walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds to a southern favorite.

These are drizzled with melted semi-sweet chocolate. Other cookie-cutter shapes may be used as well.

Golden Delicious apples, as well as other good baking varieties like Rome Beauty, are a natural choice here.

Slices of prosciutto spread with goat cheese and wrapped around asparagus tips make terrific cocktail party fare. The leftover asparagus stalks can be cut up and used in soup, or toss them with pasta, olive oil and Parmesan cheese.

New York cheesecake is dressed up for the holidays with bright cranberry topping, white chocolate in the filling and a hazelnut crust. The cake can be prepared up to two days ahead.

There are few places where chestnuts are cooked with more style and appreciation than in those states just below New England. Here they are added to a traditional stuffing, enhanced by mushrooms and herbs.

Mexican chocolate, usually found in tablet form, contains cinnamon, sugar, and ground almonds — as do these fudgy squares.