Make Ahead

This rich and creamy fudge is a snap to prepare. For a special gift, associate food editor (and resident chocolate expert) Sarah Tenaglia sets the fudge in gold foil cups and packs them in white boxes tied up with French silk ribbon.

When preparing the following pastas in advance (up to six hours), keep them covered and chilled and then let them come to room temperature before baking.

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

Pass extra salsa at the table.

Two layers of tender orange sponge cake are embellished with a rich orange and honey chocolate glaze. Any leftover chocolate glaze can be chilled, rolled into small rounds and kept refrigerated to serve as truffles with coffee or tea.

Here is an old southern favorite that is delicious as a condiment or great added to tuna, chicken and shrimp salads. Begin preparing the pickles at least three days before you plan to serve them.

Although we used Asian greens and radish sprouts for our salad, we encourage you to explore your local farmers market and use whatever small young greens (baby spinach, arugula, or watercress, for example) and other fresh goodies you find.

Dried cherries and apricots highlight this impressive version of a southern classic.

This recipe was created to accompany Herb-coated Lamb with Port-Red Wine Sauce .

The lull between the main course and dessert is the best time to top the sweet potato pie with meringue and brown it. Cooks tempted to do this several hours ahead should be aware that the meringue will most likely weep.