Brunch

Although most bruschetta are savory, this sweet bruschetta is perfect for breakfast or dessert. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This dessert hits both sweet and savory notes. Aged balsamic vinegar has a syruplike consistency, so a little drizzle goes a long way. Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 15 min

Tidbits to serve with before-dinner drinks.

Elusively spiced, this bread is great spread with margarine or butter substitute or toasted for breakfast.

The idea for this salad came from Carlos Conrique, who worked at Billy Cross's cooking school in Morelia, a beautiful 16th-century Mexican town. Today, Conrique is a chef at the Blue Door, in Miami's Delano Hotel, where his dishes are still influenced by his childhood in Guadalajara.

These can be topped with caviar or smoked salmon for a special-occasion appetizer, but they are also good with fried eggs or as a side dish for grilled fish.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Here's a terrific twist on the classic fruit-and-shortcake theme.

A quick and easy breakfast treat.

I like to serve these colorful peppers, drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil, as part of an antipasto platter. Active time: 2 hr Start to finish: 3 hr (plus 1 week for flavors to develop)

This delightful open-face omelet is aptly named; it's bursting with flavor and style.