Stone Fruit

When sweet, succulent jumbo crabmeat comes into season, this is an incredibly simple, light, and refreshing first course that requires no cooking. It can also be used as a main course for a summer luncheon.

This cobbler is wonderful after the chipotle-honey glazed pork (frankly, it's wonderful after anything).

Spectacular but easy, thanks to purchased ice cream and sorbet. The meringue is browned in the broiler, like a baked Alaska, just before serving.

For a shiny finish, brush the warm tart with melted apricot preserves.

Spicy and sweet, this unusual salad would be ideal with grilled chicken or fish.

Terrific with a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt.

The addition of fresh fruit gives these irresistible sundaes seasonal appeal. The rich creamy sauce is a do-ahead.

It's important to use large lettuce leaves (about 6 inches) for this salad, so you may need to buy 2 heads of lettuce in order to get 6 good leaves. Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 45 min

Old-time taste in a hurry. Serve in deep bowls with ice cream or whipping cream.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

In this recipe, tortillas are a supermarket stand-in for mandarin pancakes. Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 35 min

Rum and spices-classic Caribbean ingredients-also happen to be the classic ingredients in the traditional English steamed pudding. This lovely version of the Christmas dessert is from the Grand View Beach Hotel, Villa Point, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Begin preparing it at least one day before serving.