Name: Summery Cucuzza with Basil and Tomato
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons flavorful olive oil; ¾ pound very slim cucuzza (1 or 2 gourds); Pepper; 1½ cups water; 1 pound plum tomatoes; 1 large onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced or sliced; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon sugar; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 pound cucuzza greens (tennerumi); ¼ to ½ cup thin-sliced basil leaves

A mild mélange of fleshy leaves, crunchy squash bits, and fresh tomato dice brightens grilled chicken or fish steaks. Or make a meal in a bowl: Spoon the moist mixture over ricotta-filled ravioli or a soft cheese-laced polenta to act as sauce and vegetable. However you present the dish, add the tomatoes just before you serve it, or they will lose their plump vigor and turn the sauce watery.