Ham

Prosciutto and sage add deep flavor to tilapia, which is a mild fish. Separating the two sides of the fillet helps to keep the thinner part from overcooking.

Hachiya persimmons, which are very soft when ripe, are preferred here (to slice them, use a serrated knife), but ripe Fuyus will work nicely, too.

Get the most out of every ingredient by layering flavors. Roasting portobello mushrooms before adding them to the lasagna lends a meaty smokiness. Creamy béchamel sauce makes this lasagna even more luxurious.

Thinly sliced roast turkey can be used instead of Black Forest ham.

Inspired by Jamón Jamón In a desolate area of Spain, the fortunes of two families become intertwined through sex and a mutual longing for acceptance. In this 1992 black comedy, ham becomes a metaphor for life and death.

We love the flavor of Black Forest ham in this soup, but you can use any variety of ham, or even kielbasa, smoked turkey, or bacon. A dollop of sour cream rounds out the acidity of the tomatoes.

A dish from the Pays de Caux region in northern France, where it is called salade Cauchoise. The salad is traditionally bound with crème fraîche, but it is delicious made with mayonnaise, too. 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.

A moist pan stuffing that mirrors the herbaceous flavor of the turkey and gravy.

Madeira, shiitake mushrooms and hot pepper sauce make the gravy in this dish from Jack Fry's something special. It's great for brunch.

The crostini can be assembled two hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until ready to broil and serve.

(Veal Cutlets with Prosciutto and Sage) Although chef Serge Dansereau of Kables at The Regent uses thin slices of veal from a boneless veal loin, he suggests making the dish at home with veal cutlets, which are less expensive and more widely available. If the cutlets you buy are too thick, use the smooth side of a meat pounder to pound them, between sheets of plastic wrap, to less than 1/8 inch thick.