Summer

Gorgonzola cheese flavors this hearty main course. Serve with a chilled Beaujolais.

Black beans teamed with the red, yellow and green bell peppers provide an interesting contrast in color and texture.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

An easy side dish with flavor from green onions, parsley, oregano and Parmesan.

Fresh cherries take center stage in this version of an old favorite.

Blackberries, strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are layered with white chocolate cream and store-bought puff pastry for a beautiful finale.

Because the more traditional dark fruitcakes aren't really to her liking, senior editor Sarah Belk created this one, filled with her favorite nuts and dried fruits. To make these gifts even more festive, she suggest decorating the glazed cakes with additional dried fruits and nuts.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Farmers' markets offer the widest selection of fresh baby potatoes, but if you can't find golf-ball-size versions of any of the varieties in this recipe, simply purchase large potatoes and cut them into 1 1/2-inch pieces.

Tahini, a creamy sesame seed paste, adds a new twist to the dressing for the salad.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(INSALATA DI POMODORI) Climate and history have combined to make this region an important center for tomato cultivation. Plum tomatoes star in this straightforward side dish, which is a colorful accompaniment to the veal.

This is a great marinade for any fish; start marinating at least 15 minutes and up to 1 hour before grilling or sautéing. This recipe is an accompaniment for Sautéed Shrimp with Chipotle Chilies.

"I'm a social worker running my own practice," writes Susan Haskell of Boston, Massachusetts. "In addition, I'm getting a doctorate in social work. So most of my time is spent either working with patients or writing my dissertation. Still, no matter what's on my schedule, nothing can stop me from going into the kitchen. During the week, I make the time to pore over food magazines to find recipes I want to try. On Saturdays, I cook for friends — because next to cooking, sharing the results is my favorite thing to do." Susan says this can also be made with fresh cherries, sliced peaches, nectarines, or pears.