Fennel

For best results, use a heavy-bottomed sauté pan.

Serve with Polenta (page 377).

Mâche, or lamb’s lettuce, is a tender, nutty green. If it’s unavailable, try watercress as a delicious substitute.

Ricotta salata is a firmer version of fresh ricotta; it is perfect for shaving over salads.

The scallops and vegetables can be poached and refrigerated up to 1 day ahead. Avoid using an oaky Chardonnay, which may add bitterness.

If fresh is unavailable, look for packages of prewashed baby spinach. Blood oranges are named for their vivid red-streaked flesh.

White pepper is used because of its color, but black pepper will also work.

This soup must be served very cold, so for best results, prepare it a day ahead and let it chill overnight in the refrigerator.

The flavors of the fennel and caramelized onion make this unusual dish a standout.