Grapefruit

Chef Kerry Simon (celebrity fans at his showy Las Vegas restaurant, Simon Kitchen and Bar, include Kate Hudson and Lucy Liu) is bringing his simple, organic American cuisine closer to the stars with the planned opening of Simon LA at the Sofitel Hotel this month. This succulent salad provides vitamins, including A, C and folate, among others, plus some zinc from the hearts of palm and juicy ruby red grapefruit.

Olive oil in a dessert might seem a little odd, but try to think of it as a flavorful ingredient rather than a fat...as long as you choose a delicious extra-virgin oil. I first had something like this in Jabugo, Spain, when I ate slices of orange simply drizzled with a grassy local oil as a dessert. It was a revelation. If you want to go dairy-free in this dessert, then skip the yogurt and mix the mint in with the grapes.

Editor's note: This recipe is from Brini Maxwell's Guide to Gracious Living. For Maxwell's tips on throwing a summer pool party, click here. This drink is perfect for breakfast celebrations. It's light and fresh with the tang of citrus.

If you're making the striped bass in agrodolce sauce as well as this salad, save 1/3 cup chopped fennel fronds for garnishing the fish.

A simple rum cocktail made with fresh grapefruit, lemon or lime, and sparkling water. Angostura bitters add a touch of spice.

Active time: 25 min Start to finish: 25 min

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. This recipe also works with oranges and tangerines: Substitute 2 oranges or 3 tangerines for the grapefruit.