Epicurious

You can use Meyer lemons in this cake for a lighter, more floral flavor.

Once you master a basic vinaigrette, the variations are virtually endless. For example, a little bit of prepared mustard mixed with the vinegar boosts flavor and allows emulsification. Experiment with different combinations of vinegars and oils — and with adding herbs and spices. To make a citronette, substitute lemon juice for the proportion of vinegar.

As a graduate student, my mother came to the U.S. from Argentina intending to study English for a year, but after meeting my father, she decided to stay. Among her Argentinian-influenced recipes, flan (the Spanish version of crème caramel) was a family favorite; my sister and I now make it for dinner parties or special occasions, where this easy dessert always receives rave reviews.

Here's a quick and elegant entrée for spring.

Introduced to India by Portuguese settlers, this spicy stew can also be made with pork, beef or lamb. Serve over steamed basmati rice.

This light, coffee-flavored cake is a fun twist on the decadent classic, with layers of Kahlúa-soaked ladyfingers set between a sweet mascarpone filling.