American

For anyone born in the Bluegrass State, the mint julep has a special significance: It's traditionally served on Kentucky Derby Day, the first Saturday in May. But it makes a great cocktail for any warm-weather afternoon. We've added a splash of club soda to make the drink a little lighter and more refreshing.

This tastes like a thick, rich ice cream shake, but it's virtually fat-free.

Keep the glasses and a pitcher of the vodka in the freezer (for at least six hours before the party) so that you can provide instant gratification to each arriving guest. A medicine dropper is a great vermouth dispenser.

Here, sautéed polenta triangles add another dimension to a southwestern-style stew.

For soft and chewy cookies, bake these just a couple of minutes less than the recipe directs.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Highlight the homey flavors with boiled turnip greens splashed with vinegar and a basket of biscuits. End with brown-sugar-sweetened peaches and sugar cookies.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 5 1/4 hr

The name banoffee plays on the combination of a banana filling and a topping of coffee-flavored whipped cream. This inspired dessert comes from pastry chef Abigail Langlas at Alan Wong’s award-winning restaurant in Honolulu.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Some people favor collard greens boiled until they are meltingly tender, while others prefer them to retain some bite. This recipe satisfies the taste of the latter group. According to the author, this recipe goes well with roast goose.