Italian

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola Cheese)

An Italian take on the Cuban sandwich called media noche ("middle of the night").

Bruschetta — a rustic Italian canapé — is the perfect vehicle for the robust flavors of late summer. Serve these topped toasts as a first course or, with a salad and a glass of wine, as a light supper.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(RISOTTO WITH PARMESAN)

Grissini, long, thin breadsticks, are found at Italian markets and some supermarkets.

Cipolline in Agrodolce These onions — an homage to New York's Italian-American communities — are great as part of an antipasto or as a condiment for salty meats such as baked ham or duck confit. Although they are hard to resist as soon as they are cooked, the flavors continue to develop over a few days. Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 2 hr (plus 1 day for flavors to develop)

These are made with an Italian sourdough starter known as a biga, which has to be prepared one day ahead. Note that before baking the breadsticks, you can give them amusing shapes by forming one end of each dough rope into a squiggle, a loop, or whatever strikes your fancy.

These are great for a picnic. They taste even better when made a few hours ahead, which allows the flavors to blend.

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 2 hr

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires addtional resting time.