Apple

Sophistication in a snap. Purchased puff pastry takes most of the work out of making this beautiful tart.

A traditional side dish for the Christmas ham, sausage or spareribs.

Cool the apples thoroughly before filling the crust (warm apples could soften the lattice).

This recipe is an accompaniment for Pear Clafoutis with Phyllo Crisps, Cider Sauce, and Quince Sorbet .

Lightly sweetened whipped cream is a nice addition to this delicious dessert.

This is one of the many types of apple cake popular throughout central Europe. I have seen apple cakes, a traditional Rosh Hashannah dessert, served on Sabbath and holiday tables from Israel to Australia.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

A simply spectacular main-course. Ask the butcher to grind any pork trimmings to use in the stuffing. Either hard cider or Pinot Noir would be delicious alongside.

Hoop cheese is available at Jewish delicatessens and in the refrigerated deli section of some supermarkets.

Puff pastry as strudel dough is even faster and more convenient than phyllo dough. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen vanilla yogurt is great alongside.