Dried Fruit

Apples did so well in the colonies that they were exported to the West Indies, and Virginians eventually sold Pippins back to the mother country.

We couldn't have an American potluck dinner that didn't include at least one thoroughly native dish. The wild rice, hickory nuts, and dried cranberries in this salad are a nod to the potluck's origins.

From the Rainforest Cafe in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Making bread pudding is a good way to use up day-old bread. Gary Rhodes creates this sensational version of the classic English dessert with cream, milk and egg yolks, so it is ultra-rich.

Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 10 hr (includes soaking raisins)

Here is a colorful dressing that is baked alongside—rather than inside—the turkey.

A sweet snack, full of chewy dried cherries and apricots, to nibble or wrap as a gift.

Complementary ingredients give the yams a deliciously sweet and tart flavor.

Chocolate or coffee ice cream is also nice in this Italian-style dessert.

The "alternative" is the addition of oat bran.

This unique combination of flavors has been on the menu at Restaurant Jean Georges since its opening, and it continues to draw raves. The form of the layered scallops and cauliflower is basic but lovely, and the dark green sauce has a mysterious, mustardy flavor; few people could guess what is in it, and almost no one could imagine how simple it is.