Summer

(INSALATA DI POMODORI) Climate and history have combined to make this region an important center for tomato cultivation. Plum tomatoes star in this straightforward side dish, which is a colorful accompaniment to the veal.

This is a great marinade for any fish; start marinating at least 15 minutes and up to 1 hour before grilling or sautéing. This recipe is an accompaniment for Sautéed Shrimp with Chipotle Chilies.

"I'm a social worker running my own practice," writes Susan Haskell of Boston, Massachusetts. "In addition, I'm getting a doctorate in social work. So most of my time is spent either working with patients or writing my dissertation. Still, no matter what's on my schedule, nothing can stop me from going into the kitchen. During the week, I make the time to pore over food magazines to find recipes I want to try. On Saturdays, I cook for friends — because next to cooking, sharing the results is my favorite thing to do." Susan says this can also be made with fresh cherries, sliced peaches, nectarines, or pears.

I often make a thick crème anglaise to serve with this compote, though it is delightful all on its own.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.

Whole-wheat pasta is a flavorful alternative to pasta made from white flour. The tan color is particularly attractive when set off by cheese-in this case ricotta salata or feta.

When you are topping a hot dog or hamburger with chili sauce, it is vital that the consistency be uniform — no meat chunks allowed — and it is traditional among the nations's hot dog chefs that the beef be nearly pulverized. If you cannot grind your own, see if you can have a butcher make an extra-fine grind for this recipe.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe was inspired by Laurie Colwin's tomato pie — which ran in the August 1992 issue of gourmet; James Beard has a similar recipe that we also love in American Cookery. Paired with a green salad, it's a great warm-weather lunch. The very thin biscuit crust sets it apart from the usual (pastry-crust) pies. Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 2 hr (includes cooling)

Serve this simple-to-prepare pasta with crusty bread and a glass of Italian rosé (called rosato) or Pinot Grigio.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

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.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.