Fennel

Serve with Polenta (page 377).

Mâche, or lamb’s lettuce, is a tender, nutty green. If it’s unavailable, try watercress as a delicious substitute.

Ricotta salata is a firmer version of fresh ricotta; it is perfect for shaving over salads.

The scallops and vegetables can be poached and refrigerated up to 1 day ahead. Avoid using an oaky Chardonnay, which may add bitterness.

If fresh is unavailable, look for packages of prewashed baby spinach. Blood oranges are named for their vivid red-streaked flesh.

White pepper is used because of its color, but black pepper will also work.

This soup must be served very cold, so for best results, prepare it a day ahead and let it chill overnight in the refrigerator.

The flavors of the fennel and caramelized onion make this unusual dish a standout.

These smoky flavored olives are always the first thing to disappear off an antipasti platter or hors d’oeuvres spread. The brightness of the orange zest enhances the earthy flavors of the olives; you can use freshly squeezed orange juice if you don’t have zest. I love to serve these straight from the oven, still warm.