Winter

Pumpkin pies have long been favored in New England; there is a recipe for a "pompkin" pie in Amelia Simmons's 1796 American Cookery. New England colonists, in spite of their puritanical reputation, were known to enjoy a tot of rum now and then. And if the liquor was hidden in a pie, even the ladies were able to indulge.

Serve this stuffing alongside your Christmas turkey, ham, goose or duck. Add an extra dose of chestnuts to your meal by offering the Brussels Sprouts with Chestnuts and Bacon.

Celebrate with a bottle of Champagne.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Root vegetables are always for sale at the Central Market in Lancaster, but are especially nice this time of year. Rutabagas have a distinctive bitterness that makes them good with rich meats like pork. Tamed by the onions and honey, these rutabagas are a terrific side dish.

Serve this with roast lamb or chicken. Market tip: Let the greens (if attached) be your guide to freshness when selecting turnips. Make sure they are bright green and fresh-looking.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Sweet and tart at the same time, the compote is spooned atop creamy chilled custard for a satisfying Italian dessert.

This easy dressing makes a great side dish for roast chicken or fried pork chops.

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 1 hr