Prosciutto

An adaptation of a classic Northern Italian dish, spezzatini di pollo al pomodoro e vino bianco (chicken sautéed with tomato and white wine). Serve sautéed broccoli rabe and a crusty ciabatta alongside. What to drink: Barbera or Italian Chardonnay.

For a meatless pizza, skip the prosciutto and add sautéed sliced portobello mushrooms.

The empanadas can be put together ahead of time and popped into the oven to bake just before serving.

"During a recent business trip to Birmingham, Alabama, I had dinner at the Hot and Hot Fish Club," writes Shelia Murray of Paradise, California. "Every bite of chef Chris Hasting's shrimp and grits was packed with flavor. I'd love to prepare this stand-out dish at home."

Susan Dlott of Solon, Ohio, writes: "On our last visit to New York City, we spent the day watching the St. Patrick's Day parade, sightseeing, and shopping. We topped off the trip with a marvelous meal at La Dolce Vita. My entrée of pappardelle, pancetta, and mushrooms in a Sherry tomato cream sauce was simply unforgettable. I'd like to duplicate it at home." Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 13/4 hr

Don't be put off by what might look like a complicated technique. It takes more time to describe how to make Parma braids than it does to actually assemble them. Slightly salty and very buttery, these savory croissants are hard to resist. Active time: 2 hr Start to finish: 18 hr

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A sophisticated and easy-to-make salad.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Here's a great prelude to a main-course pasta.