Blender

Adding rum or vodka to this plum limeade makes a delicious cocktail. With or without alcohol, the limeade should be served immediately, since it will quickly darken if left standing.

We've spiked this lemonade with vodka to make a refreshing summer cocktail, but you can omit the alcohol. One batch will completely fill your blender, so if you need more, make multiple batches rather than doubling or tripling the recipe.

Camarones al Cilantro Laura Bookman of Weston, Massachusetts, writes: "Can you get me the recipe for camarones al cilantro from Cafe Sol Azteca, in Newton Center, Massachusetts?"

It's very important not to use all white meat in this recipe — dark meat, which is higher in fat, has far more flavor, so look for ground turkey with at least 7 percent fat.

Inspired by Jamón Jamón In a desolate area of Spain, the fortunes of two families become intertwined through sex and a mutual longing for acceptance. In this 1992 black comedy, ham becomes a metaphor for life and death.

Hearty lentils and a creamy cauliflower puree make this a particularly satisfying fish dish. Curry powder is an exotic surprise in the lentils.

Raymond Williams of Minneapolis, Minnesota, writes: "Every November, my wife and I drive to our winter home in Scottsdale, Arizona. We always look forward to warming up in the desert sun and eating at our favorite restaurant in town, Zinc Bistro. Last winter we had an outstanding artichoke and celery root salad there."

This is equally delicious hot or cold.

This rendition of India's popular yogurt shake makes a cooling counterpoint to any spicy dish.

Inspired by frullato di frutta, the frothy Italian fruit drink, this smoothie can be made with any type of fresh or frozen berries.

For a thicker smoothie, use frozen berries.

This recipe is sponsored by Black Swan Vineyards