With rich, toasty flavors and a tender crumb,
 no one will guess this loaf is gluten-free. I prepare
 this skillet cornbread recipe in a cast iron frying pan, which I can bring right
 to the table, and serve it warm with butter. For a satisfying breakfast, lunch, or snack, smear leftovers with peanut butter. Sometimes I make this loaf with 1⁄2 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) maple syrup rather than the brown sugar, and mix it in with the liquid ingredients.

Inspired by lasagna, grilled eggplant, ripe tomatoes, and creamy cheese seasoned with fresh basil and balsamic vinegar is a fresh and light vegetarian main dish. For parties, this dish can be sliced into small portions, or placed on toothpicks.

These quesadillas feature gluten-free corn tortillas instead of the usual wheat flour wrappers. A fresh corn and tomato salsa adds vibrant color and bright flavors. It’s an incredibly quick meal to put together.

Start your weekend cocktial soiree off right with this simple and delicious margarita recipe.

Pizza need not be off-limits if you are living a gluten-free lifestyle. There are many gluten-free pizza crusts available today that are perfect for quick weekday meals, but I enjoy making pizza crusts from polenta, as I like the texture and flavor that it contributes. There’s no need to wait for the crust to rise, as with yeast-risen wheat-flour bases, and it is a surprising dish to serve to company or at a small party. The crust will not be firm enough to pick up, but, enjoyed with a fork, it has the same satisfaction of wheat-flour pizza.

This syrup is divine. I like to double the amount of syrup. Of course, some may like less, but I’m someone who likes the nutty cake drenched in the tart, gooey syrup.

Tender, firm, bitter, sweet, and creamy with a nice big crunch, this salad has it all. It’s perfect with meat or fish, especially pork, lamb, or salmon. If a perfectly ripe mango is not available, you can substitute an orange—or even better, a blood orange. Though the texture of the citrus may be juicy rather than creamy, it makes for a brightly flavored, colorful solution.

Roasts are wonderful for a group because they take little effort to produce divine results. You just have to be sure not to overcook them—that’s the only thing that can go really wrong when preparing a roast, be it pork, poultry, or beef. You’ll love the crust on this succulent cut of pork. It adds both flavor and texture to the delicious, slow-cooked meat.

My mother made this soup often, and always raved about how delicious it was. So I finally had to make it for myself to see—and she was right! The slightly peppery taste of the watercress is mellowed by the potatoes and brightened by the lemons. This smooth, tasty soup is a perfect starter; or for a quieter, less ambitious evening, it is wonderful served as a meal in itself with a loaf of heated bread and butter.

This is my all-time tried-and-true favorite easy ice cream recipe for any dessert. It’s the perfect balance of simple and rich, with super-fresh vanilla flavor.