Sour Cream

The almond-scented blueberry filling is sprinkled with a pecan topping.

Anadama bread, a traditional New England yeast bread made with cornmeal and molasses (said to have been created by a woman from Massachusetts named Anna), is the inspiration for the following muffins. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

We call for California avocados in our recipes because our food editors prefer their rich flavor and creamy texture to that of West Indian avocados, which tend to taste a bit bland and watery.

Offer steamed new potatoes alongside. What to drink: Chardonnay or Sancerre.

A perfect partner to salad. Accompany with a platter of celery sticks and radishes with their tops attached.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Garnish with whole gingersnaps, cherries and mint for a beautiful presentation. Begin preparing the cake a day before the party.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Though the chips and purée can be served at room temperature, the caviar should be chilled, so assemble these hors d'oeuvres in batches as platters need replenishing.

A creamy sauce and a trio of caviars are the "dream" of this party dish. Buy the quality and quantity of caviar that fit your budget.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Becoming a muffin master is easy. Flavor the basic muffin batter below by adding, for example:

• 1 chopped banana and 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup toasted almonds, 3/4 cup dried cranberries, and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup chopped drained canned pineapple and 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
• 1 cup chopped dried apricots and 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 10 hr