Summer

A thick puree of fresh peaches is added to the rich custard ice cream base. The ice cream can be made up to three days ahead.

Serve this with the Mushroom Flatbreads or on its own.

This was inspired by a similar dish served at the now defunct China Moon restaurant in San Francisco. Serve the salsa with a bowl of Parmesan Pita Crisps.

This recipe is needed to prepare Minted Lamb and Sugar Snap Pea Salad .

The filling is wonderfully creamy, like ice cream, but is made without using an ice cream machine. Be sure to have plenty of extra fruit to go along with the torte.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

GELATO DI MELONE

A sweet summer treat that comes together quickly (nectarines rarely need peeling). You may want to serve ice cream alongside, but some softly whipped cream is also delicious.

Usually made of mashed potatoes, garlic and olive oil, skordalia is a thick sauce served with meats, fish, fritters or greens.

Making one large shortcake is impressive and lot of fun — especially when chocolate is added to the basic combination.

This version of the French classic has only raw vegetables.

For extra eye appeal, use tricolor pasta in this fresh-from-the-garden salad.