Lemon

Keep the apricots submerged in the poaching liquid, or they will turn brown. Mixed with seltzer water, the poaching liquid makes a refreshing apricot fizz.

For individual servings, divide the pudding among six 6-ounce ramekins; reduce the cooking time to 25 minutes.

For perfectly smooth slices, cut the layered cake with a hot serrated knife. The cake can be wrapped well in plastic wrap and stored in the freezer for up to 3 weeks.

Use the juice of these lemons for the mousse, and use some of the syrup for lemon sauce. Make this recipe a day before the mousse.

This mousse can be made up to 3 days before serving. Ring molds may be purchased at specialty cookware stores. You can also use an 8-inch springform pan.

The sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Warm over gentle heat just before serving.

The lemon slices can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 day.

The crêpes can be made 1 day ahead and refrigerated, wrapped in plastic wrap. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 200°F oven.

Easy to prepare, this vibrant pink fruit salad can be served on its own or spooned over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or your favorite sorbet.

To keep mashed potatoes warm for up to 2 hours, place them in a heatproof bowl over a pot filled with 3 inches of barely simmering water; cover to seal in the steam.

Frozen lima beans may be substituted for fava beans; start with the second step.

The grainy mustard and bacon dressing is best when made and served immediately. The artichokes, however, can be prepared in advance.

Yuca is a starchy root with tough, brown skin, crisp, white flesh, and a mild flavor. It is also known as cassava.