Nut Free

We used small potatoes for this recipe. If your potatoes are larger, adjust the cooking time.

The easiest way to peel butternut squash is with a vegetable peeler; the harp-shaped variety works particularly well.

This delicate torta makes a lovely luncheon dish. Served with our Warm Bean, Snap Pea, and Tomato Salad (page 173), it is perfect for a springtime supper. To drain the ricotta cheese, place it in a fine sieve lined with cheesecloth, and set the sieve over a deep bowl; let stand at least 1 hour at room temperature.

Look for precooked polenta logs in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. If using fresh plum tomatoes, peel them by scoring an X in the bottom with a paring knife and plunging them into boiling water for several seconds; transfer to an ice-water bath, and let cool. Slip off and discard the peels and seeds.

If you can’t find this squash, use butternut.

Look for fresh lemongrass in Asian markets and some supermarkets.