Bon Appétit

Gratins feature a crust of melted cheese and sometimes breadcrumbs. Serve with good bread and a salad for lunch or a light dinner.

This rich, subtly spicy gravy recalls the great Mexican sauce known as mole poblano. The puréed ancho chilies on which the gravy is based are often described as having a chocolatey quality; that is reinforced here with the addition of a small amount of unsweetened chocolate.

These mini tostadas make terrific appetizers. The topping is seasoned with cumin, serrano chili and cilantro.

The classic twosome presented in the perfect after-dinner mint.

This dish from Hotel d'Urville in Blenheim makes delicious use of New Zealand's green-lipped mussels.

For dinner in a matter of minutes, try this Mediterranean-flavored main course.

The mild flavor of leeks adds a nice touch to the pasta's tomato-based sauce.

Try this cheese-laden side dish with roasted chicken or grilled lamb.

Offer this colorful condiment with assorted grilled vegetables or grilled tuna. It's also great when paired with fried calamari or used in tuna or potato salad.

This simple preparation can be made with any firm white fish.

A one-pot Moroccan meal from Lotfi's in New York. Serve the stew with couscous or flat bread.

Serve these patties with a crisp salad of assorted baby greens.

A rich chocolate-raspberry truffle filling highlights this updated Linzertorte.

If time is short, omit the streusel topping.