Fruit

Clafouti is a rustic, simple French dessert that's a cross between a pancake and a custard. You can use other fruits, but cherries are traditional — and this is the month they're at their best.

Lamb shoulder is meltingly tender here, and a natural partner for earthy-sweet artichokes.

Indulgence on a platter: Lobster, shrimp, scallops, and crab legs make one impressive presentation. (Ask the market to cut the lobster tails and crab legs in half lengthwise for you.) A selection of sauces adds to the party fun.

Asiago frico — easy-to-make crispy cheese wafers — top this salad. Look for tender young spinach at the farmers' market. In some areas, what you find at the farmers' market may be cheaper than what's available at the supermarket. If you have a first-rate extra-virgin olive oil and some sea salt in your cupboard, here's a chance to show them off.

IMPROV: Substitute red oak leaf lettuce (available at farmers' markets and natural foods stores) or red romaine for the red leaf lettuce. Make the croutons with Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese instead of Parmesan.

To get the cleanest slices of foie gras, dip a heavy sharp knife in water, then wipe it dry before cutting each slice.

A sweet blackberry syrup mellows mouth-puckering limes in an intensely fruity (and kid-friendly) drink.

Be sure not to overblend — the little bits of fruit add a pleasant textural contrast. The pitted dates available in supermarkets work well.

Now's the perfect time for strawberries at their peak, and here is a way to celebrate all their fabulous flavor.

Fatty pork is the standout ingredient in these crisp spring rolls; it adds intense flavor and a tender texture to the crab and vegetable filling. Fresh ginger and a generous amount of cilantro add kick.

These lightly sweet tuiles are savory enough to stand in for bread or crackers, and their lacy appearance dresses up any plate.

This noodle salad, studded with slices of sweet mango and crisp cucumber, is a cooling oasis in the midst of a meal packed with rich, spicy dishes. The glazed roast pork gives the salad added dimension, but could also be served on its own.

With authentic Asian flavor, this soup is a perfect light supper.

This rich, creamy chocolate sauce is perfect on ripe strawberries, but it's so versatile it might also be just what your favorite dessert has been missing.