Corn

Here's a good example of Thomas Keller's culinary magic: Simple flavors come together spectacularly in this special dish from The French Laundry in Napa Valley.

Denise Anderson, Lexington, Ky.
"I created this chili when my husband and I were trying to eat less meat."

Tender Iowa corn was the inspiration for these terrific biscuits. They are best eaten the day they are baked; extras can be warmed up the next morning for breakfast or brunch. Be sure to serve them with plenty of butter.

To make this recipe even easier to prepare, substitute three tablespoons diced canned green chilies for the fresh Anaheim chili.

Great on its own or served alongside grilled fish, chicken or steak.

Although these are called fritters, they more closely resemble pancakes. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Cornmeal gives these blini a slightly crunchy texture that is perfect with the salsa.

This is a lighter, first-course version of a classic Pennsylvania main-course soup. Saffron was initially a Colonial rich man's spice, and it retained a certain panache even for the Pennsylvania Dutch in Philadelphia, who grew their own.

Add corn bread, a crunchy chicory salad, and peach pie for summer supper at its best.

If you'd like to make the jalapeño-lime butter one day ahead, use a broiler or gas burner to char the chiles and save the grill prep for the corn.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Roasted poblano chilies add a wonderful smoky flavor to this pizza; however, if they are not available in your area just omit them from the recipe.

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 4 hr