Raw

Fools are traditionally prepared with pureed fruit mixed with whipped cream, or egg custard, or a combination of the two. (The term fool probably comes from the French fouler, meaning "to crush.") They seem to be especially successful when made with sharply flavored garden produce like rhubarb, gooseberries, and black currants, which still have enough bite to be interesting when blended with cream. But strawberries, which are much easier to find, also work quite nicely. Strawberry fool is best when the fruit is mashed rather than pureed, resulting in a more appealing texture. Serve it with cookies.

Flavored vinegars can be used to enliven dressings and marinades, finish pan sauces, or pickle vegetables--and they make wonderful gifts. Once the steeping is completed, these vinegars keep for several months. (Garnishes and other solids left in the jar, however, may discolor or break down.)

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Salsa de Tomatillos y Lima This tart, mildly spicy, and bright green salsa is so delicious that you might want to double the recipe to have extra on hand. It's great mixed into guacamole or veggie sautés (for a little tangy kick). Or try it as a topping for anything from nachos to scrambled eggs to baked potatoes. This recipe is an accompaniment for Oval Masa Cakes with Goat Cheese Filling .

Here's an easy granita (a grown up snow cone). If you like, top it off just before serving with a diced melon salad made from cubes of cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon that have been tossed with a bit of sugar and thinly sliced fresh mint leaves.

The greens for the following salad may be washed and spun dry a day in advance and kept wrapped in paper towels in a plastic bag and chilled. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(MIXED SALAD)

This recipe was created to accompany Roasted Salmon with Salsa Verde .

Straight from Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. This is one of mom's specialties for a summer lunch or dinner.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Jícama spears with lime juice and chili powder are a popular street snack in Mexico — crunchy, sour, and spicy all in one bite.

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