Tomato

"Recently I had dinner at a fine restaurant with a peculiar name: The Place Next to the San Juan Ferry," says Beth Fogarty Day of Redmond, Washington. "It's right by the water in Friday Harbor, Washington. I'd love the recipe for the mushroom and goat cheese appetizer."

If you prefer, you can pile the lamb and salad on top of a larger pocketless pita for an open-face sandwich and drizzle with sauce. Pocketless pitas are sold at specialty foods shops and many supermarkets. Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 45 min

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr

When adding the flour, it's important to do so delicately. It must be cooked to remove any raw taste. This thickens the soup nicely.

This is a great entrée for entertaining or for a special weeknight dinner for your family. Either way, no one except you will know how easy it is to make. And your secret is safe with us.

Play off the Provençal flavors by passing an arugula salad tossed with red wine vinaigrette. Sliced peaches topped with honey and sour cream would make a great finale.

Cooking Time: 8 hours on LOW or 5 to 6 hours on HIGH
Slow Cooker Size: 5 1/2- to 6-quart oval I think the slow cooker was invented with brisket in mind. This sweet and savory version is perfection itself, melting in your mouth. It's very important to buy a "first-cut" or "flat-cut" brisket, which has far less fat than other cuts.

Fresh mint makes this starter all the more cooling. Use Haas avocados for the creamiest texture. What to drink: Throughout the meal, go with the classics — beer and Margaritas.

Serve with: Grilled pattypan squash and crusty French bread.

Serve this flavorful dish with corn bread or crusty French bread.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Serve this hearty veal shank stew with warm crusty bread.