White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake

This showstopping cheesecake is topped with a pile of jewel-like glazed raspberries, a tart contrast to the sweet white chocolate filling. Create your own customized cheesecake recipe with our Recipe Maker.

For the crust:

• 8 oz. vanilla wafers, finely crushed (2 cups of crumbs)
• 3 Tbs. granulated sugar
• 7 Tbs. unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 3 8-oz. packages cream cheese, at room temperature
• 8 oz. white chocolate, melted and cooled
• 2 Tbs. all-purpose flour
• Table salt
• 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 Tbs. Chambord
• 1 Tbs. pure vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature

For the topping:

• 4 cups fresh raspberries
• 1/4 cup seedless raspberry or red currant jam

Make the crust:

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 375°F.


In a medium bowl, stir together the vanilla wafer crumbs and 3 Tbs. granulated sugar. Mix in the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moist and clump together slightly. Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch springform pan and press evenly onto the bottom and about 2 inches up the sides of the pan (to press, use plastic wrap or a flat-bottom measuring cup). Bake until the crust is fragrant and slightly darkened, 9 to 12 minutes. Let the pan cool on a rack. Lower the oven temperature to 300°F.

Fill and bake the cheesecake:

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese, melted white chocolate, flour, and a pinch of table salt on medium speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl and the paddle frequently, until very smooth and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Make sure the cheese has no lumps. Add the 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar and continue beating until well blended and smooth.


Add the Chambord and vanilla, and beat until blended, about 30 seconds. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until blended. (Don’t overbeat once the eggs have been added or the cheesecake will puff too much and crack as it cools.) Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top.


Bake at 300°F until the center jiggles like Jell-O when nudged, 55 to 65 minutes. The cake will be slightly puffed around the edges, and the center will still look moist. Set on a rack and cool completely. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 8 hours and up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen at this point for up to 1 month (see make-ahead tip, below).

Top and serve:

Unclasp and remove the side of the springform pan and run a long, thin metal spatula under the bottom crust. Carefully slide the cake onto a flat serving plate. Arrange the raspberries on top of the cake. To glaze the berries, heat the jam in a small saucepan with 1 Tbs. water, stirring frequently, until melted and smooth; strain. Brush the raspberries with the melted jam mixture.


To cut, run a thin knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and cut the cake into slices, heating and wiping the knife after every slice.

Braised Beef Braciola Stuffed with Basil and Mozzarella

This is a home-style version of the Italian-American classic. The traditional dish uses small roulades of beef round, but here we use a whole flank steak because it’s quicker and easier to stuff and roll one large cut and the flank offers a wonderful flavor. If you want to build up the stuffing, add prosciutto or hearty greens like kale.

• One 2 lb. flank steak
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup grated mozzarella
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
• 1/3 cup fine, dry breadcrumbs
• 12 large basil leaves, torn into pieces 
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, cut into thin strips (about 1-1/2 cups)
• 1/2 cup red wine
• One 28-oz. can whole tomatoes and their juices (3 cups), puréed (preferably San Marzano)
• 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 8 oz. white mushrooms, quartered

Set the flank steak on a large cutting board. Using a chef’s knife, slice the steak lengthwise along one long side (without cutting all the way through the meat) and open it up like a book. Using a meat mallet, flatten the meat so it is about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle both sides of the meat with 1 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper. For the stuffing, put the mozzarella, Parmigiano, breadcrumbs, and basil in a mini chopper or food processor and pulse to combine. Sprinkle the stuffing evenly over one side of the beef, and roll it up lengthwise jelly roll–style with the stuffing inside. Secure with kitchen twine in five or six places.

Heat half the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the beef and cook until it browns and releases easily from the pan, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until browned, about 5 more minutes. Transfer to a large plate.

Add the remaining 2 Tbs. oil and the onion to the pan, and lower the heat to medium. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp. salt and cook, stirring, until the onion wilts completely and turns a light brown, about 8 minutes. Add the red wine and cook, stirring, until it almost completely reduces, about 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes and red pepper flakes and bring to a boil. Reduce to a gentle simmer and tuck the meat and mushrooms into the broth. Cover and cook, repositioning the meat occasionally, until the meat becomes tender and cuts easily with a paring knife, about 1-1/2 hours. Set the meat on a cutting board and let rest for 10 to 15 minutes. Thinly slice and serve topped with the sauce and vegetables.

Creole Beef Grillades and Cheese Grits

A grillade is a traditional beef or veal round cut into a square and then pounded thin to be tender. Beef round is the most suitable cut for this dish. Gardner Ranch calves are raised on a diet of grass and clover with the bare minimum of supplements, producing lean yet flavorful meat.

For the Beef Grillades

• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1 tsp. cayenne
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. thyme
• One 3-pound beef shoulder, sliced into 1/2-inch-thick cutlets
• Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup rendered bacon fat, or 2 Tbs. unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 stalk celery, finely diced
• 1 small red or green bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups canned chopped tomatoes with juices
• 2 cups beef stock
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 Tbs. Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce
• Cheese Grits (recipe follows)
• 2 scallions (green parts only), finely chopped, for garnish

For the Cheese Grits

• Coarse salt
• 1 cup stone-ground white corn grits
• 3 Tbs. unsalted butter
• 2 Tbs. mascarpone or cream cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Edam or Swiss cheese

Make the Beef Grillades

To make the Creole spices, mix the paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and thyme.


Season the beef with salt and pepper. Season the flour with the Creole spices, and reserve 1/4 cup. Put the remaining 1-3/4 cups flour in a large, shallow bowl, and then dredge the beef in the flour, shaking off the excess.


Heat the rendered bacon fat or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the cutlets until golden brown, about 2 minutes on each side, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (you might need to cook in batches). Set aside the cooked cutlets on a paper towel–lined plate.


Add the onions to the same pan, lower the heat to medium, and cook until the onions are a deep mahog­any color, about 10 minutes. Add the celery, bell peppers, and garlic, and cook for another 5 minutes. Add a tablespoon of the reserved seasoned flour to the pan and mix well.


Add the tomatoes and beef stock to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the thyme, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce; return the beef cutlets to the pan. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the meat is fork-tender. Discard the bay leaf. Add hot sauce to taste and more salt and pepper as desired.


To serve, put a heaping spoonful of Cheese Grits on a serving plate, top with 2 or 3 pieces of beef, and spoon the sauce over the meat. Garnish with scallions.

Make the Cheese Grits

In a large saucepan over high heat, bring 5 cups of salted water to a boil while slowly whisking in the grits. Reduce the heat to medium low; cover and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally and making sure the grits aren’t sticking to the bottom of the pan; adjust the heat to low if the grits are cooking too quickly.


Remove the cooked grits from the heat and stir in the butter, mascarpone or cream cheese, and grated cheese. Season with salt to taste and serve warm.

Lamb and Goat Cheese Burgers with Roasted Red Pepper Relish

There’s a double dose of fresh goat cheese here—as little pockets of flavor inside the burgers and as a creamy spread on the buns. The egg and breadcrumbs in the burgers help keep them moist.

• 4 oz. jarred roasted red peppers, drained, patted dry, and coarsely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
• 8 pitted Kalamata olives
• 1 medium clove garlic, chopped
• 1 Tbs. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 8 oz. fresh goat cheese, at room temperature
• 1 tsp. finely chopped fresh mint
• 1/2 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
• 1 lb. ground lamb
• 1/4 cup finely chopped sweet onion
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 Tbs. coarse fresh breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for the pan
• 4 onion rolls, split and toasted
• 4 medium butter lettuce leaves

In a food processor, pulse the red peppers, olives, garlic, parsley, and olive oil into a coarse paste, 15 to 20 one-second pulses. Set aside.

Combine the goat cheese, mint, and lemon zest in a large bowl. Transfer about one-quarter of the mixture to a small bowl and set aside at room temperature. Refrigerate the goat cheese mixture left in the large bowl until firm, 10 to 15 minutes.

Add the lamb, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, rosemary, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper to the chilled goat cheese mixture and mix by hand until well combined there should be some small pieces of goat cheese visible. Shape into four 4-inch patties and transfer to a plate. Press 3 fingers down into the middle of each patty to create a shallow indentation, loosely cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until cold, at least 20 minutes and up to 3 hours.

Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat or prepare a medium-high (400°F) gas or charcoal grill fire. Lightly oil the pan (or grill grates) and then cook the burgers, flipping once, until done to your liking, about 7 minutes total for medium (135°F to 140°F).

Spread the remaining goat cheese mixture on one cut side of each roll and then assemble the burgers on the rolls with the lettuce and red pepper relish.

Couscous with Corn and Blue Cheese

In this one-pot side dish, couscous is cooked with fresh corn to soak up its sweet flavor. A touch of cayenne and crumbled blue cheese add heat and tang.

• 2 Tbs. unsalted butter
• 1 tsp. coarsely chopped fresh thyme
• 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from 3 to 4 medium ears)
• 1 cup sliced scallions (white and green parts)
• Kosher salt
• 1 cup couscous
• Pinch of cayenne
• 2 Tbs. crumbled blue cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper

Melt the butter in a 4-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the thyme and cook until fragrant, a few seconds. Add the corn, scallions, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the scallions are softened, about 1 minute. Add 1 cup couscous, stir, and then add 1 cup of boiling water and the cayenne and stir again.

Remove from the heat, cover, and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork,stir in 2 Tbs. crumbled blue cheese, and season to taste with salt and
pepper. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Baked Orzo with Shrimp, Lemon and Feta

All sorts of ingredients— sun-dried tomatoes, olives, peas, or corn —can be added to this baked pasta for extra flavor and color. Serve this side with a seared steak for a Mediterranean version of surf and turf.

• 5 Tbs. olive oil, more for the dish
• 1 lb. shrimp (26 to 30 per lb.), peeled and deveined
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 large clove garlic, minced
• 5 oz. baby spinach
• 1 lb. orzo
• 6 oz. feta, crumbled (about 1-1/2 cups)
• 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
• Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
• 3/4 cup Panko

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 425°F. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Lightly coat a 2-quart baking dish with oil.

Heat 2 Tbs. oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp. each salt and pepper, and cook, stirring, until the shrimp start to lose their raw color (but don’t cook through), about 2 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Stir in the spinach and cook, tossing, until it starts to wilt, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat.

Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and toss with the shrimp mixture, feta, 2 Tbs. oil, half the thyme, and lemon zest. Transfer to the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with the remaining Tbs. oil, the remaining tsp. thyme, and 1/4 tsp. salt. Sprinkle on top of the pasta.

Bake the pasta until the breadcrumbs brown and the pasta heats through, about 20 minutes (cover with foil if the top browns too quickly). Let cool for a couple of minutes and then serve.

Pimento Cheese Gougères

These don’t puff up quite like traditional gougères, but they have all the same qualities that recommend consuming them one after the next, in close succession. The pimento cheese gives the interiors a custardy quality, flecked with red from the pimentos and green from the pickles, and a decidedly Southern flavor. Use the extra pimento cheese for sandwiches or dipping.

• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into several pieces
• 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup grated extra sharp Cheddar
• 1 cup Pimento Cheese
• 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

Heat the oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment or lightly butter them.

Combine the milk, 1/2 cup water, and butter in a medium-size saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until the butter is melted. Add the flour and salt all at once, reduce the heat to medium, and stir the mixture vigorously with a wooden spoon until it pulls away from the sides of the pan. Continue stirring for several minutes over low heat, then remove from the heat and cool for 1 minute. The dough should not brown and will be thick, smooth, and shiny.

Add the dough to the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on low speed for 3 to 4 minutes, or until it isn’t steaming any more but isn’t completely cool, before adding the eggs, one at a time, incorporating each egg before adding the next. Add the grated Cheddar and pimento cheese along with the black and cayenne peppers and mix to blend.

Use a spatula to transfer the dough to a pastry bag fitted with a 1/2-inch round tip and pipe 1-1/2-inch mounds, approximately the volume of a heaping tablespoon, on the baking sheets 2 inches apart.

Bake until deep golden brown, about 17 minutes. Reduce the heat to 300°F, put a wooden spoon in the door so that it’s slightly ajar, and bake for another 10 minutes.

Cranberry-Pecan Croutons with Gruyère and Rosemary

Crisp on the outside, tender within, and covered in melted cheese, these ooey-gooey herby croutons are to die for. Any fruit-nut bread will work well here; walnut-raisin is a great option.

• A crusty loaf of cranberry-­pecan bread
• 3 Tbs. unsalted butter
• 3 oz. coarsely grated Gruyère (3/4 cup)
• 2 tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary
• Flaky sea salt

Position a rack 6 inches from the broiler element and heat the broiler on high. Cut twenty-four 1-inch cubes from the loaf of bread.

Melt 2 Tbs. of the butter in a 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the bread cubes, arranging them 1/2 inch or more apart, and cook until the bottoms are golden, about 1 minute. Turn the cubes over and add the remaining 1 Tbs. butter.

Remove the skillet from the heat and top the croutons with the Gruyère and rosemary. Broil until the cheese melts, about 30 seconds. Sprinkle with sea salt. Using a metal spatula, loosen the croutons from the bottom of the pan and separate each so they’re easier to pick up. Serve in the skillet with a kitchen towel wrapped around the handle, offering toothpicks or small forks for spearing the croutons.

Gorgonzola and Fontina Nachos with Fennel and Mint

This sophisticated take on nachos may sound unusual, but the salty-tangy Gorgonzola and creamy fontina meld beautifully, fennel seeds add a subtle anise note, and fresh mint brightens the mix. It’s an irresistible combination.

• 8 oz. tortilla chips (preferably unsalted or lightly salted)
• 10 oz. coarsely grated fontina (2-1/2 cups)
• 5 oz. crumbled Gorgonzola (1 cup)
• 2 tsp. fennel seeds
• 2 Tbs. chopped fresh mint

Position a rack 6 inches from the broiler element and heat the broiler on high. Scatter the tortilla chips onto a large rimmed baking sheet. Evenly sprinkle the chips with the fontina and Gorgonzola. Crush the fennel seeds in a mortar and pestle and sprinkle over the cheese. Broil until the cheese is melted, 1 to 3 minutes. Sprinkle with the mint and serve hot from the baking sheet.

Roasted Cauliflower and Goat Cheese Frittata

Roasting the cauliflower under the broiler gives it toasty, golden edges in just minutes, while the goat cheese, dill, and quickly pickled red onion add tons of flavor to this hearty frittata.

• 1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced lengthwise
• 2 Tbs. distilled white vinegar
• Kosher salt
• 2 cups 1-inch cauliflower florets (about 1/2 small head)
• 2 Tbs. plus 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 8 large eggs
• 2 Tbs. chopped fresh dill
• 1/2 tsp. whole-grain mustard
• 2 Tbs. unsalted butter
• 6 oz. fresh goat cheese, crumbled (1-1/2 cups)

Position a rack about 6 inches from the broiler and heat the broiler on high.

Combine the onion, vinegar, and 1/2 tsp. salt in a small bowl; let sit for 10 minutes and then drain and pat the onion dry. Set aside.

Meanwhile, on a large rimmed baking sheet, toss the cauliflower with 2 tsp. of the oil, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Broil, tossing once or twice, until the edges are golden, 3 to 6 minutes.

Reposition the rack in the center of the oven and set the oven to 400°F.

Whisk the eggs, dill, mustard, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper in a medium bowl.

Heat the remaining 2 Tbs. oil and the butter in a 12-inch ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat until the butter melts. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until some of the pieces are dark golden brown, about 3minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat, stir in the roasted cauliflower, and then slowly pour in the egg mixture, redistributing the vegetables evenly. Sprinkle the goat cheese on top and bake until the eggs are set in the center, about 10 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes and then use a silicone spatula to slide the frittata onto a serving plate or cutting board. Slice into wedges and serve.

Asparagus and Mascarpone Gratin with Parmesan Breadcrumbs

This simple yet decadent dish is easy enough to make on a weeknight but special enough (and easily doubled) for a weekend dinner party. Look for mascarpone, an Italian-style cream cheese, in the cheese section of most supermarkets.

• 1 lb. asparagus, trimmed of tough woody stems and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2  small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1-1/2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 3/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
• 5 oz. mascarpone
• 1/2 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg

Position a rack 6 inches from the broiler element and heat the broiler on high.  In a 2-quart gratin dish, toss the asparagus with the onion, 1/2 Tbs. of the olive oil, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/8 tsp. pepper. Broil until crisp-tender, about 6 minutes.

Meanwhile, toss the breadcrumbs with the Parmigiano-Reggiano, remaining 1 Tbs. olive oil, and 1/8 tsp. pepper.

Dollop the mascarpone in little spoonfuls over the asparagus, sprinkle with the nutmeg, and top with the breadcrumb mixture. Broil until bubbly and golden-brown, about 2 minutes more. Serve.
 

Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes

This variation on a Caprese salad is a Di Bruno Bros. classic. Serve it with grilled bread, olives, and Prosecco for a light appetizer or a summery lunch. It’s easily doubled or halved.

• 1 lb. heirloom tomatoes cut into bite-size pieces (or about 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes)
• 8 basil leaves, sliced into ribbons
• 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• 2 burrata, about 12 oz. each
• 1 loaf rustic Italian bread, cut in thick slices and grilled or toasted

Toss the tomatoes with the basil and balsamic. While they sit, make a quick garlic oil—just heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat for about a minute, then add the minced garlic. You don’t want it to brown, so as soon as the garlic begins to sizzle, remove the pan from the burner.

Pour the hot garlic oil over the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the tomato mixture on four plates, and slice the burrata vertically in half. There’s cream inside, so make sure you do this on a cutting board or plate. Arrange the halved burrata on top of the tomatoes. Serve with thick slices of grilled or toasted bread.

Creamy Brussels Sprout Gratin

Roasting Brussels sprouts and then adding cream brings out their sweet, mellow side. This gratin can convert even the most confirmed Brussels sprout critic into a devotee.

• 2 lb. Brussels sprouts, stem ends trimmed and outer leaves removed; sprouts cut in half through the stem end
• 3 Tbs. unsalted butter, melted
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup coarse fresh breadcrumbs (from a baguette or other white bread)
• 3/4 oz. (1/4 cup) finely grated Gruyère
• 1-1/4 cups heavy cream

Heat the oven to 425°F. Put the Brussels sprouts in a shallow baking dish that will hold them in a snug single layer (a 9x13-inch rectangle or slightly smaller oval is good). Toss with 2 Tbs. of the melted butter, 3/4  tsp. salt, and several grinds of pepper. Spread them evenly in the dish and roast, tossing once or twice, until browned in spots and tender when pierced with a knife, 25 to 30 minutes.

While the sprouts roast, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining 1 Tbs. melted butter and 1/8  tsp. salt in a small bowl. Mix in the Gruyère.

When the Brussels sprouts are tender and browned, pour the cream over them and conntinue baking until the cream has thickened to a saucy consistency and coats the sprouts, 5  to 7 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven. Set the oven to broil and position a rack to 6 inches below the broiler. Sprinkle on the breadcrumb mixture. Broil the gratin until the crust is deep golden brown, about 5 minutes.

Flaky Cheese Biscuits

Because of all the delicious cheese, these biscuits may spread a bit as they bake, but they're so good, it really doesn't matter how they look.

• 8 oz. (1-3/4 cups) unbleached all-purpose flour; more as needed for shaping the dough
• 1 Tbs. granulated sugar
• 2-1/4 tsp. baking powder
• 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. baking soda
• 4 oz. (8 Tbs.) very cold unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup very cold buttermilk
• 2 cups grated sharp Cheddar, Gruyère, Gouda, or provolone

Mix and fold the dough:

Heat the oven to 500°F and position a rack in the middle of the oven. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment. Put the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in a large mixing bowl and stir with a whisk to distribute the ingredients evenly.

With a sharp knife or a bench knife, cut the cold butter crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Stack 3 or 4 slices and cut them into three even strips. Rotate the stack a quarter turn and cut the strips in half. You should create 6 small bits of butter per slice. Toss the butter bits into the bowl with the flour mixture. Continue cutting all the butter in the same manner and adding it to the flour mixture.

When all the butter is in the bowl with the flour, use your fingers to separate the butter bits (they tend to stick to each other), coat all the butter pieces with flour, and evenly distribute them throughout the flour mixture. Don’t rub the butter too hard with your fingertips or palms, as this will melt the butter. You’re just trying to break the butter pieces apart, not blend the butter into the flour.

When all the butter is evenly distributed, add the cold buttermilk and stir with a large spoon until all or most of the flour is absorbed by the buttermilk and the dough forms a coarse lump, about 1 minute. 

Pat and fold the dough:

Dust a work surface with flour and dump the dough onto the floured surface, cleaning out the bowl with a spatula or a plastic bowl scraper. Dust the top of the dough and your hands with flour, and press the dough into a 3/4-inch-thick rectangle. Sprinkle a small amount of additional flour and one-third of the cheese on the top of the dough. Fold the dough over on itself in three sections, as if folding a letter (also called a tri-fold). With a bench knife or metal spatula, lift the dough off the counter and dust under it with flour to prevent sticking, if necessary. Dust the top with flour and press the dough out again into a 3/4-inch-thick rectangle. Sprinkle on another third of the cheese and repeat the tri-fold. Repeat this procedure one more time (three times in all), using the remaining cheese.

Cut and bake the biscuits:

After the third tri-fold, dust under and on top of the dough, if needed, and roll or press the dough into a 1/2-inch-thick oval. Dip a 2-inch or 2-3/4-inch round biscuit cutter in flour and start cutting biscuits, dipping the cutter in flour between each biscuit. Press straight down to cut and lift straight up to remove; twisting the biscuit cutter will seal the sides and interfere with rising. Use a bench knife or spatula to transfer the biscuits to the baking sheet, placing them about 1/2 inch apart.

Gently gather any scraps of dough, pat and roll out again, and cut more biscuits from the remaining dough. You can gather and roll the scraps two times total and still get good results (the more times you roll out, the tougher the biscuits will be).

Put the baking sheet in the oven and reduce the temperature to 450°F. Bake for 8 minutes; rotate the pan 180 degrees; continue baking until both the tops and bottoms of the biscuits are a rich golden brown and the biscuits have doubled in height, revealing flaky layers on the sides, 4 to 6 minutes more. It’s all right if some butter seeps from the biscuits. Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a cooling rack, leaving the biscuits on the pan. Cool the biscuits for at least 3 minutes and serve them hot or warm (they will stay warm for about 20 minutes).

Yukon Gold Gruyère Galette

I like the combination of sweet, nutty Gruyère and the slight sharpness of Parmigiano-Reggiano in this galette. Sometimes instead of thyme, I use a slightly smaller amount of rosemary. 

• 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots (from about 2 large shallots)
• 3 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil; plus 1/2 tsp. for the pan (or use olive-oil spray for the pan)
• 1 lb. Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2 large or 3 medium), unpeeled and scrubbed
• 1 heaping tsp. very lightly chopped fresh thyme
• Kosher salt
• 1/2 cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (about a 1-1/2-oz. piece, grated on a box grater’s small holes)
• 1 cup finely grated Gruyère (about 3-1/2 oz.)

Combine the shallots and 3 Tbs. of the oil in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce to a low simmer; cook the shallots until nicely softened (don’t let them brown), about 2 min. Remove from the heat and let cool completely (about 25 min. at room temperature; cool them more quickly in the refrigerator. if you like).

Heat the oven to 400°F. Rub the bottom and inside edge of a 7-1/2-inch tart pan with a removable bottom with the remaining 1/2 tsp. olive oil or spray with olive-oil spray. Put the tart pan on a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil.

Slice the potatoes as thinly as possible (about 1/16 inch) with a chef’s knife. Tip: If the potato wobbles, slice a thin lengthwise sliver off the bottom to stabilize it; then continue slicing crosswise. Discard the ends. Put the potato slices in a mixing bowl, add the shallots and olive oil along with the herbs and toss well to thoroughly coat the potatoes (a small rubber spatula works well).

Cover the bottom of the tart pan with a layer of potato slices, overlapping them slightly. Start along the outside edge of the tart pan and, making slightly overlapping rings, move inward until the bottom is covered with one layer of potatoes. Sprinkle the potatoes with salt (a generous 1/8 tsp.) and then sprinkle about one-quarter of the Parmigiano and about one-quarter of the Gruyère over all. Arrange another layer of potatoes, season with salt, sprinkle with cheese, and repeat two more times, until you have four layers of potatoes. (This is a messy job; you’ll need a damp towel to wipe your hands between layers.) Top the last layer with more salt and any remaining cheese.

Bake the galette until the top is a reddish golden brown and the potatoes are tender in all places (a fork with thin tines should poke easily through all the layers), 45 to 50 min. The bottom will be crisp and the sides brown.

Let the galette cool for 10 or 15 min. in the pan. It will then be cool enough to handle but still plenty hot inside for serving. Have a cutting board nearby. Run a paring knife around the edge of the galette to loosen it and carefully remove the tart ring by gently pressing the tart bottom up. Slide a very thin spatula under and all around the bottom layer to free the galette from the tart bottom. Use the spatula to gently slide the galette onto a cutting board. Cut into four or six wedges, or as many as you like.

Individual Potato Galettes

For a special dinner, you can make potato galettes in individual tart pans. The amount of ingredients in the recipe will fill (with a little to spare) four 4-1/2-inch tart pans with removable bottoms. Baking times will be just slightly shorter, but remember, you can bake these ahead, remove them from the tart rings, and reheat them on a baking sheet. A mini galette makes a lovely bed for a slice of beef tenderloin with a little sauce.

Peas with Baked Ricotta and Bread Crumbs

When faced with a cup of just-shucked fresh peas, try this simple, light dinner, cooking them with minced shallot, sage, and lemon, then spooning them over baked ricotta with crispy bread crumbs.

• Olive oil
• 1 cup high-quality ricotta cheese, such as hand-dipped full-fat ricotta
• 2 to 3 Tbs. fresh bread crumbs
• 4 tsp. butter
• 2 large shallots or 1/2 small onion, finely diced (about 1/3 cup)
• 5 small sage leaves, minced (about 1-1/2 tsp.)
• 1-1/2 lbs. pod peas, shucked (about 1 cup)
• Grated zest of 1 lemon
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• Chunk of Parmesan cheese, for grating

Heat the oven to 375°F. Lightly oil a small baking dish; a round Spanish earthenware dish about 6 inches across is perfect for this amount.

If your ricotta is wet and milky, drain it first by putting it in a colander and pressing out the excess liquid. Pack the ricotta into the dish, drizzle a little olive oil over the surface, and bake 20 minutes or until the cheese has begun to set and brown on top. Cover the surface with the bread crumbs and continue to bake until the bread crumbs are browned and crisp, another 10 minutes. (The amount of time it takes for ricotta cheese to bake until set can vary tremendously, so it may well take longer than the times given here, especially if it wasn’t drained.)

When the cheese is finished baking, heat the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. When the butter foams, add the shallots and sage and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the peas, 1/2 cup water, and the lemon zest. Simmer until the peas are bright green and tender; the time will vary, but it should be 3 to 5 minutes. Whatever you do, don’t let them turn gray. Season with salt and a little freshly ground pepper, not too much.

Divide the ricotta between 2 plates. Spoon the peas over the cheese. Grate some Parmesan over all and enjoy while warm.

Apple and Cheddar Cake

Grated cheddar cheese melts into this cake and gives it a wonderfully tangy flavor and richness. Diced pear may be substituted for the apple if you like. Either way, it tastes great with maple syrup–sweetened whipped cream on the side.

• 3/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1-1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/4 tsp. table salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 6 Tbs. milk
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 large tart apple, such as a Granny Smith, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/4-inch dice

Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and dust with flour. Combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.

Combine the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl and cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl once or twice as necessary. With the mixer on medium-low speed, add the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition.

Turn the mixer to low speed and add 1/2 of the flour mixture. Stir in the milk. Stir in the remaining flour mixture until just combined. Stir in the cheddar cheese and apple.

Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a rubber spatula. Bake until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 35 minutes. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, invert it onto a wire rack, and then turn it right side up on a rack to cool completely.

Store uneaten cake in a cake keeper or wrap in plastic and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Tomato and Watermelon Salad with Feta

Made with some of summer’s juiciest fruits and vegetables, this vibrant salad is as refreshing as it is nutritious. For the prettiest presentation, use tomatoes of various colors and shapes.

• 2 oz. lightly packed baby arugula (about 2 cups)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1-1/2 cups large-diced seedless watermelon
• 1 medium or 3 mini unwaxed cucumbers, halved or quartered lengthwise, seeded if necessary, and cut into 3/4-inch pieces (about 2 cups)
• 3 oz. feta, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 3/4 cup)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Put the arugula, tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, feta, and basil in a large bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

Open-Face Brie, Apple, and Arugula Sandwiches

This quick, easy sandwich pairs the peppery kick of arugula with sweet apples and mellow, creamy melted brie on top. A cup of hot soup turns it into a meal. 

• 8 slices rustic artisan bread (about 2-1/2 by 6 inches and 3/4 inch thick)
• 8 tsp. Dijon mustard
• 4 cups packed baby arugula
• 1 medium Fuji apple, cored and thinly sliced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 8 oz. Brie, thinly sliced

Position a rack 6 inches from the broiler and heat the broiler to high.

Put the bread slices on a rimmed baking sheet and set under the broiler. Broil until nicely toasted, 1 to 2 minutes.

Remove the pan from the oven, flip the bread over, and spread 1 tsp. of the mustard evenly on each untoasted side. Top with the arugula and then the apple slices. Season lightly with salt and pepper, and then arrange the Brie slices in a single layer over the apples.

Broil just until the Brie starts to melt, 1 to 2 minutes (don’t let it melt too much or the apple will get warm and the arugula will wilt). Sprinkle with a little black pepper.

Smoky Corn Quesadillas

There’s no need to precook the corn kernels for these simple, satisfying quesadillas. As long as you use fresh corn, the raw kernels will lend a bit of juicy sweetness and a crisp crunch. The smoky flavor comes from smoked paprika.

• 1/4 cup fresh corn kernels (from half a medium ear)
• 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack
• 2 Tbs. chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
• Kosher salt
• 2 7- to 8-inch flour tortillas
• 2 tsp. vegetable oil
• Lime wedges and sour cream, for serving

In a medium bowl, combine the corn, Monterey Jack, cilantro, paprika, and 1/8 tsp. salt. Divide the mixture between the tortillas, scattering it over half of each; fold the tortillas in half.

Heat the oil in a heavy-duty 10-inch skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the quesadillas and cook until browned and crisp on the bottom, about 1 minute. Flip and continue to cook until browned and crisp on the other side, 1 minute more. Let cool slightly, cut into wedges, and serve with lime wedges and sour cream.