Stone Fruit

Blended drinks called batidas (or licuados) are served at fruit bars throughout Latin America. Milk or freshly squeezed orange juice is used as the base, then fruit is added and the mixture is blended to the consistency of a thick shake. Batidas are often enjoyed as a mid-morning or afternoon snack, but they're also delicious as cocktails later in the day. We tried various kinds of sugar to rim the glasses — from coarse crystals of sanding sugar to small grains of granulated sugar — and the only difference is in the appearance.

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.