Gratin

In France puréed potatoes are mixed with a local cow's-milk cheese known as Tomme Fraîche de Cantal. We've substituted fresh mozzarella — widely available in the States — to give the dish a similar consistency.

Here's proof that an elegant dessert does not have to take hours to make. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This not-too-sweet potato dish is reminiscent of tzimmes, a traditional sweet potato, carrot and short rib stew. Using a four-millimeter slicing blade in processor makes the preparation a snap.

Serve this with roast lamb or chicken. Market tip: Let the greens (if attached) be your guide to freshness when selecting turnips. Make sure they are bright green and fresh-looking.

Gratins feature a crust of melted cheese and sometimes breadcrumbs. Serve with good bread and a salad for lunch or a light dinner.

We used a Microplane rasp (available at cookware shops) to grate the cheese in this recipe. You can use a box grater instead, but the same amount of cheese (1 ounce) will yield less volume. Active time: 25 min Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

One of the great blue cheeses of the world, real English Stilton transforms potatoes au gratin into something extraordinary.