Spring

Cardamom adds a lovely accent to the compote and the filling, which is made with soft farmer cheese for creamy texture.

The plump ravioli called pansoti ("little bellies"), a Ligurian specialty, are often dressed with a walnut sauce. We strayed from tradition a bit and tucked the walnuts into the filling instead. Be sure to buy pancetta that's well marbled: If it's too lean, it won't render enough fat to flavor the filling. Also, brown the onions well — the caramelization lends a depth and richness that's essential to this dish.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

In this classic vegetable preparation, the cooking liquid is used to make the velvety sauce. The dish is normally served at room temperature, but it's equally good warm.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A composed salad that features all the bright and pretty colors of the season.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Serve this dense, moist cake with a big bowl of lightly sweetened strawberries.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The bouquet garni for this stew includes orange peel (use a vegetable peeler to make wide strips) and some of the wispy fronds from the top of the fennel bulb that goes into the soup.

This recipe is an accompaniment for Baked Ham with Mustard-Red Currant Glaze and Rhubarb Chutney .

Active time: 25 min Start to finish: 25 min

Jamie Oliver This dish was created by my mum, Sally Oliver, on the occasion of the birth of her second granddaughter, Daisy Boo Oliver. Be sure the rhubarb you use is nice and juicy, and lay it, pretty side down, over the syrup so it looks nice when you take the cake out of the pan.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.