Zucchini

Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for an hour before using to prevent them from splintering and scorching. Note

Ratatouille can be made a day ahead; store, covered, in the refrigerator. It is great on its own, or served with pasta. In a Provencale dialect, touiller means to stir and crush, thus the name ratatouille perfectly describes this rich vegetable stew. Note

Danish salami is a smoked, delicately spiced salami; you can use another variety if you wish. Note

It is easier to spread the sauce on the pasta squares while they are flat on a board. Note

A fish burger makes a delicious alternative to a beef burger. You can use white-fleshed fish, or even prawns, instead of the salmon for something different. Note