Make Ahead

These "patriotic" sundaes with their terrific blueberry-caramel sauce are a lot of fun for a Fourth of July party.

This bread uses a yeast starter, which enriches its flavor and texture. Be sure to prepare the starter one day ahead. Humidity makes the crust crisper, so the recipe calls for spritzing the oven with water; simply use a standard spray bottle and tap water.

The salt creates a seal around the fish, which preserves its moisture and pure flavors. Romesco is a classic sauce from the Catalonia region. For cooking the fish, use two 13x9x2-inch metal baking pans.

Use with sweet and buttery lettuces such as Boston and Bibb.

To prepare these without an ice cream maker, pour the sherbet base directly into pop molds. If you don't want to use the molds and you have churned the mixture in an ice cream maker, the sherbet can be transferred to a resealable container, then simply scooped into bowls. Begin making this dessert one day ahead.

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 45 min

A great cocktail snack to have on hand, these will keep for a week before serving.

A lovely white sangria with great balance. Make it a day ahead to allow the flavors to intensify.

This recipe is an accompaniment for Boca Negra Chocolate Chipotle Cakes .

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

For a sophisticated touch, crumbled goat cheese is sprinkled over the fennel and broiled until just beginning to brown.

"This delicious cookie was created by Anna Pieklo, a Polish immigrant who came to this country at the turn of the century," writes Diana Treese of St. Cloud, Florida. "My family is also Polish, and I love making these at Christmastime." Active time: 1 1/2 hr Start to finish: 2 1/2 hr