Bon Appétit

"My husband and I recently visited New York with some friends," says Helene M. Strassman of Gaithersburg, Maryland. "One evening, we had dinner at Babbo. The whole meal was fantastic, but the best part was the maple and mascarpone cheesecake. I asked our waiter for the recipe, but he politely refused. Maybe Bon Appétit could persuade pastry chef Gina DePalma to part with it." Be careful when boiling down the maple syrup for this recipe. It gets very hot, as a caramel syrup does. Use a heavy, large, deep saucepan because the syrup bubbles up high and vigorously when boiled. Let the syrup settle before measuring it.

Fresh rosemary enhances this terrific side dish from Il Radicchio in Washington, D.C.

"Since we live in a town where there are plenty of apple orchards, my husband and I enjoy developing new dishes that include apples," says Lidian Long of Tehachapi, California. "We particularly like this recipe—he loves its curry flavor, and I appreciate its simplicity."

This version of colcannon, usually a combination of buttery mashed potatoes and cabbage, is a wonderful accompaniment to grilled sausages or Beef Stew with Stout .

This lively Asian-style salad is terrific on its own or teamed with roast chicken, roast lamb or broiled shrimp.

Borekas -savory pastries made of phyllo dough- are part of the culinary heritage of Israeli Jews of Turkish and Bulgarian backgrounds. Falafel is the most popular street food in Israel, but borekas run a close second. This sophisticated version of the dish makes a delicious appetizer.

This fragrant stew is great over couscous.

This version of clafouti is like a custard.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Since the tomatoes in the sauce are cooked just briefly, this dish is a breeze to make.

A classic duo adds an Italian accent to an American favorite.

This bright and sophisticated dish is offered at Gresslin's in London, England.

A rustic tart with a delicious hazelnut crust, sweet filling and buttery topping.

Hearty and delicious fare from Byron's in London, England.