Melon

To round out the meal: a whole-wheat roll with 1 tsp butter or trans-fat-free soft-tub margarine; 4 oz white wine or juice spritzer; 2 gingersnaps

Watermelon is a lycopene star — 1 cup has nearly 7 milligrams of the cancer fighter. Riesling adds a refreshing crispness.

In this perfect no-cook dish you can substitute crumbled bacon for the chicken or just omit the meat altogether.

The longer you let the vinaigrette stand, the spicier the kick from the chiles. And we know the dressing calls for a lot of thyme, but we loved the result.

Freezing the watermelon and strawberries before mixing the drink eliminates the need for ice  — and allows the fruit flavors to retain their full intensity.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(PROSCIUTTO E MELONE) The delicate pink cured ham from the hills of the province of Parma is one of Emilia's most important products. Purists insist it should be served on its own or with a slice of bread, but others enjoy it with melon, figs or pears; the sweetness of the fruit sets off the prosciutto's salty tinge perfectly. This simple dish is a classic example. Pour a dry white Albana di Romagna or Trebbiano di Romagna. If you can't find one of those, go for a Verdicchio from the neighboring region of the Marches.

Ginger, cumin, and black pepper add an exotic touch to this refreshing and colorful three-melon dessert. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.