Sour Cream

Before grilling the pineapple, be sure to preheat your grill rack and then clean it with a metal brush to remove any bits of previously grilled food, which can give an off flavor to the pineapple. This recipe makes great use of the Börner V-slicer*. Other adjustable-blade slicers also work well, but if you don't have one, you can use a sharp 10-inch chef's knife. The smooth-sided tart in our photo was made in a springform pan, but since the crust is very delicate, it's much easier and less likely to break when made in a round tart pan with a removable bottom as called for in the recipe below. Active time: 50 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

If you can't find fresh Key limes in your area, you can substitute bottled Key lime juice. We've tried several different kinds in our test kitchen, and the only one we like so far is Manhattan brand*.

(Spicy Chicken Crêpes)

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The primary difference between this kugel recipe and the traditional is its use of dairy, which would make it inappropriate at a meal with meat on the menu for those who observe kosher dietary laws.

Begin preparing the cheesecake one day before you plan to serve it.

The low-fat mushroom ragout can also be served over toast points or as a side dish.

(Russian Potato-and-Cabbage Turnovers)

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

It is said that bourbon was first distilled in 1789 by a Virginia minister, and by the nineteenth century it had become an important regional industry. It makes a great cocktail, of course, but we also like it in this rich sauce.