Goat Cheese

At Erna’s Elderberry House the ravioli-like dumplings are prepared with homemade pasta, but wonton wrappers make an easy substitute.

When Wonder Bread hit the market in Indianapolis in 1921, it truly was a wonder: The loaves were larger than the ones Americans were accustomed to, and the revolutionary plastic packaging and addition of preservatives prolonged the bread’s shelf life. In 1930, pre-sliced loaves became available, changing the world of sandwiches forever. Sliced Wonder Bread is also great in this strata; its spongy texture is perfect for soaking up the eggs and milk.

Components of this salad can be prepared one day ahead, then tossed together at the last minute. Offer white wine spritzers and iced tea with lunch. Colorful ornamental kale can be found at some supermarkets and specialty foods stores.

This is very easy to prepare and it makes an elegant addition to any party.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

For a sophisticated touch, crumbled goat cheese is sprinkled over the fennel and broiled until just beginning to brown.

Garden-fresh Thyme Pesto is the star of this elegant entrée, but you can also use purchased or homemade basil pesto.

María A. Alvarado-Gómez of Erie, Pennsylvania, writes: "I came to the United States as an exchange student, after spending the first 18 years of my life in Mérida, Yucatán. On school vacations I would go home and cook with my mother and sisters so that I wouldn't lose my touch. My mother was a skilled cook, and I was lucky to have learned at her side. Her food was so popular in our neighborhood that she sold portions of our daily meals to other families. With nine well-fed kids, she said we were her best advertisement. "I still take great pride in the food of my homeland. Yucatecan cuisine is known for its Mayan influence, and the essential ingredients we use — limes, spices, avocados, tomatoes, peppers — make for wonderful flavors. Now that ground spices are readily available and vegetables can be quickly chopped in a food processor, preparing traditional Mexican dishes is easier than ever." This dish is the Yucatecan version of huevos rancheros.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

Here is a beautiful and inventive salad that combines hearty beets, sweet-tart plums and tangy goat cheese.

Serve as a first course on a bed of arugula or as a side dish with grilled beef or chicken.

Serve Champagne to add an elegant, light touch to this terrific brunch menu.

Marinate the cheese for a couple of hours, then assemble the salad just before serving.