American

Cider was one of the most popular drinks in Colonial America, and each year some of the pressing was turned into vinegar. A tart-sweet cider vinaigrette dresses this light and lovely green salad, which includes thin slices of crisp apple.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

For a particularly light and crunchy coating we used panko (coarse Japanese bread crumbs) on these crab cakes rather than regular bread crumbs. Panko is increasingly available in this country, not only in Asian markets but also in seafood shops.

Fred Provenzano of Seattle, Washington, writes: "While in Washington, D.C., for a convention, I discovered a delightful restaurant, The Little Fountain Cafe. It was so good that I went back for dinner two more times during my stay. Can you persuade pastry chef Lauren Cooper to divulge her recipe for chocolate chip bread pudding?" The pudding can be assembled up to one day ahead, then popped into the oven just before you sit down for dinner.

This hearty winter stew has rich, deep flavors that improve if the stew rests in the refrigerator overnight. what to drink: Rioja, Syrah, or any medium-bodied red wine with soft berry fruit and some spice.

Maple squash is a time-honored Thanksgiving staple, but there are plenty of other ways to go with butternut. See our variations, below, for a few ideas. Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 45 min

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 1 hr

I like to mix up several kinds of apples for great-tasting applesauce. I prefer it coarse, so I cook it for a short time and then mash it only slightly.

A crisp is one of the easiest desserts that a nonbaker can make.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

"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.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.