Tomato

The signature dish at Bouchée is similar to boeuf bourguignon except it uses short ribs, which create a more elegant presentation for individual servings. The addition of vinegar offsets their robust meatiness. Any remaining sauce would be great served over egg noodles.

If available, add the lobsters' coral pink roe to the sauce — it makes this dish even more luxurious.

This summer, Marino grew about 85 tomato varieties in his garden; he uses his harvest in this caprese. Burrata cheese, a fresh mozzarella filled with cream and curds, is available at some supermarkets, Italian markets, and cheese stores. Fresh whole-milk mozzarella can be substituted.

This classic Italian dish is said to have been created in the 1800s after the opening night of Bellini's opera Norma.

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Soft 00 flour (available at Italian markets) produces a more tender pasta, but all purpose flour works well, too.

Left whole and baked, these plump tomatoes encase a soft-cooked egg and romaine pesto. Their interesting presentation is sure to turn some heads.

A long turn in the oven gives these juicy plum tomatoes good caramelization, lending sweetness to their robust flavor.

This hearty gratin resembles a savory bread pudding. Tomatoes, aromatic basil, and parmesan cheese give it an Italian flair.

This stew has "family favorite" written all over it. The simplicity of the ingredients, along with its versatility, add
up to a dish that is fabulous for a casual dinner at home or to serve to guests.

Food editor Gina Marie Miraglia Eriquez's southern Italian grandmother makes this dish every September. The eggplants get a workout, but the result is worth the effort.

Flavorful pork shoulder, along with fruit—dried and fresh, the perfect fall combination—stuff these chiles en nogada.

Each spoonful of this French country-style soup delivers the warming taste of sun-ripened tomatoes and luxurious saffron.

Allow this salad to sit a few minutes after tossing; the mozzarella milk and tomato juices emerge and add flavor to the dressing.

Breaking down the season's freshest tomatoes and piling them on sourdough toast creates a simple and flavorful first course.