Stone Fruit

If desired, the smoothie can be strained to remove the berry seeds, but the seeds contain lots of beneficial dietary fiber.

Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 2 1/2 hr

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A gastrique is a mixture of caramelized sugar (or, in this case, sweet preserves) and vinegar often used in savory dishes made with fruit.

Here, sliced fresh peaches and a rich brown sugar caramel sauce accent scoops of ginger-flavored frozen mousse. Margarita glasses make terrific sundae dishes.

Offer some butter cookies alongside this dessert, which makes a lovely presentation.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The following recipe produces a coarse-crumbed cake; for ease of slicing, dip you knife in hot water before cutting each serving.

(TORTA DI RISO CON COMPOSTA DI CILIEGE E ALBICOCCHE) This flourless dessert is popular, especially on the Po River plain. The texture is more like that of a rice pudding than that of a cake. The compote is a refreshing partner. For a treat, uncork a semisweet Lambrusco.

Cream of coconut is added to the batter and the whipped cream frosting. You can make and chill the cake up to one day ahead.

Frangipane is a classic pastry filling with ground almonds. Here, pistachios are also added. Both the pastry and the filling can be made one day before baking.

Make the cake a day ahead so that it has plenty of time to chill.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Try this fresh, no-cook chutney with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or lamb burgers.