The spectacular coastline of Italy is home to many of the country's most luxurious seaside resorts. It also lays claim to some disarmingly desolate stretches of coast where lush forests of lemon trees, herbs, pines and almonds create fragrant breezes. It is here that pesto was born - a classic combination of basil, nuts, olive oil and garlic.

In many cuisines, lamb is a traditional way to welcome spring. Middle Eastern cooking in particular is partial to lamb in many forms. It is a common ingredient in the rice pilafs that originated in that part of the world more than 700 years ago.

Some food fads seem to come straight from appliance makers determined to clutter up our kitchen counters. Currently, the hot new gadget is the sandwich grill or panini press. Similar to the waffle iron, some versions produce a crisp, thin-toasted sandwich that can be addictive.

The Jewish New Year - Rosh Hashanah - features apples and honey rather than champagne and fireworks. Like most New Year's celebrations, it is a joyous occasion, but just a bit more solemn.

With Christmas and Hanukkah less than one week apart this year, I am thinking about dishes I can serve for both holidays. Looking at traditional Christmas dishes, I notice that most are closely tied to one country...

From Sinaloa's rugged, majestic mountains and pine forests to Veracruz's green coasts and tropical jungles, Mexico's food varies widely-reflecting Caribbean, Spanish and Mayan influences.