Stone Fruit

Learning to cook octopus properly is important because it can become a bit rubbery if not prepared correctly. This recipe teaches a great technique. The richness of the aged balsamic vinegar, the brightness of the peach, and the peppery bite of arugula come together in a harmonious way that celebrates all of the flavors, especially the octopus.

This sweet-tart relish has 7 fewer grams of sugar than the canned kind, and it supplies disease-fighting antioxidants.

The technique: For crisp-tender vegetables, boil them quickly, then dump them into a bowl of ice water.
The payoff: The rapid boil cooks the veggies just enough; the ice water stops the cooking and intensifies the color of the vegetables.

These individual desserts have a spiced fruit filling that's a modern version of mincemeat.

A fool is a classic British dessert made from pureed fruit folded into cream whipped to stiff peaks.

Brandy, cinnamon, and lemon zest combine to give this tart unbelievable aroma and wonderful flavor.

The compote would also be great with angel food cake or sorbet.

This simple cake can be sliced and served or toasted before serving. For the best texture, use a medium-fine polenta.

Almond-flavored cookies make up the crust; broiled peaches are mixed with ice cream to create the delicious filling.

Asian sweet chili sauce is available in the Asian foods section of many supermarkets.

A cool treat inspired by spumoni, the classic Italian frozen dessert of ice cream, whipped cream, rum, nuts, and candied fruit.

Making the panna cotta in a cake pan gives this classic dessert a new look. For best results, use an organic plain yogurt (which usually has a softer texture than nonorganic).

If you're using a glass or metal pie dish instead of a deep-dish ceramic pie plate, be sure to keep an eye on the pie. It may cook more quickly. Baking the pie on the bottom rack of the oven ensures a crisp bottom crust.

This is terrific on grilled baguette slices, sprinkled with feta or fresh goat cheese. Or try it as a topping for grilled fish or chicken.

Chipotle chiles canned in adobo sauce are sold in the Latin foods section of some supermarkets.