Tomato

Whole-wheat pasta is a flavorful alternative to pasta made from white flour. The tan color is particularly attractive when set off by cheese-in this case ricotta salata or feta.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe was inspired by Laurie Colwin's tomato pie — which ran in the August 1992 issue of gourmet; James Beard has a similar recipe that we also love in American Cookery. Paired with a green salad, it's a great warm-weather lunch. The very thin biscuit crust sets it apart from the usual (pastry-crust) pies. Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 2 hr (includes cooling)

Serve this simple-to-prepare pasta with crusty bread and a glass of Italian rosé (called rosato) or Pinot Grigio.

Bruschetta — a rustic Italian canapé — is the perfect vehicle for the robust flavors of late summer. Serve these topped toasts as a first course or, with a salad and a glass of wine, as a light supper.

Offer with lots of hot tortillas and cold beer.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A small coffee or spice mill makes grinding the whole spices very easy. Serve the lamb with the Indian Ratatouille and basmati rice. Pour a spicy red wine such as Syrah or Zinfandel.