Oven Bake

Sour cream can be substituted for the mascarpone, but the polenta won't be as rich.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Most of the work on this dish is done the day before, leaving plenty of time in the morning for opening presents or simply sleeping in.

Kids love this version of pigs in blankets.

These crunchy, sweet-tart chips are addictive — you'll definitely want to make them as a snack. The preparation is particularly easy with a nonstick baking pad. If you decide to use parchment paper instead, be prepared for some chips to stick to it. When they do, return them to the oven for 3 minutes to soften. Active time: 10 min Start to finish: 2 hr

Piping the filling into the potato shells with a pastry bag makes an attractive presentation. You can also just spoon in the filling and crosshatch the top with the tines of a fork.

(Gratins d'Aubergine, Mozzarella et Pistou) This makes a terrific meatless main course. It would serve eight as a side dish; simply layer the ingredients in a 13x9x2-inch baking dish, then bake and broil it as directed.

These toasts are also delicious without the foie gras or with a slice of country pâté substituted for the foie gras.

"This favorite was inspired by my wife's penchant for sweet onions and mine for bitter greens," says Joe Archibald of Kensington, Connecticut. "The creaminess of the chèvre is set off nicely by the tartness of the vinegar." Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.