Cheese

Russian cheesecakes, like this one served at The Kaleenka in Seattle, are lighter and drier than most American versions. The texture comes from a dry-curd cheese (known here a hoop cheese) common to Russian cooking.

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 1 hr

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Fresh mint and lemon peel are combined with feta and chevre in this topping. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Start this meatless meal with artichokes filled with a lemon mayonnaise for dipping, and serve the risotto with a mixed green and cherry tomato salad and a basket of toasted herb bread. To polish things off, set out a purchased raspberry tart.

This recipe originally accompanied Goat Cheese Soufflé and Mixed Greens with Raspberry Vinaigrette .

Honey flavors both the syrup and the filling in these delicate pastries. In the Middle East they are usually stuffed with nuts or cheese. Mozzarella is included in this version, which may seem unusual in a sweet filling, but it prevents the ricotta from becoming runny. The pine nuts are like little eggs resting in their nests.

Camembert aux Noix Amuse-Bouches Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 50 min

Migas is the name of a popular Spanish starter of breadcrumbs fried with ham; it's typically served with fried eggs. Here, migas becomes a crouton topping for the salad.

Involtini di Manzo Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 45 min

Here's a summer salad with robust flavors.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A colorful and unusual first course.