Pine Nut

Stuffed pastas such as ravioli are simple to make, but it is important to keep the dough soft enough to be worked easily. Always roll out and fill 1 sheet of dough at a time, keeping the remaining dough wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less

(BELL PEPPERS FILLED WITH CAPERS, OLIVES, ANCHOVIES, RAISINS AND PINE NUTS) This classic starter highlights many of the distinctive flavors of southern Italian cooking. Pour a rich Taurasi-Campania's best red wine-during the meal, or if you prefer something lighter, try to find a red Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio from a top-quality producer.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The warm goat cheese toasts make delicious croutons for the salad, but they would also be an easy hors d'oeuvre.

Asparagus Soup with Saffron

On a weekday, accompany this main course with breadsticks and marinated vegetables from the deli. Wrap up with grapes and cookies. For a festive occasion, start with an antipasto of olives and roasted vegetables, then serve an arugula, radicchio and toasted walnut salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Finish with an Italian fruit crostata.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 1 hr

"This is one of my favorite pastas," Lisa Bonacossi said, citing its simplicity. "it is made with lemons, pine nuts, and oil that everyone has on hand." The flavors are simple and brilliant. The sauce is best served with fresh tagliatelle. I serve it with lemon wedges too for those who like to squeeze a bit of fresh juice over the pasta. Serve this with a well-chilled Pinot Grigio for a nice, bright combination.

Any nut can be substituted for the pine nuts. Toast them for fuller flavor.

Pine nuts provide a buttery contrast to the tart capers in this sophisticated veal dish.