Cassata Parfait with Meringue

This variation of the traditional Italian dessert cassata Neapolitan is a good choice to make ahead. All of the components can be prepared in advance and held in their proper place for quick last-minute assembly. Although advance preparation is possible with most frozen desserts, this one has quite an elegant appearance. If you must leave out the pâte à choux ornaments to save time, the dessert will still look and taste great; it will simply be a bit more ordinary in appearance.