With so many fruits in peak season by July Fourth, summery desserts almost make themselves. Fruits are always a treat when eaten unadorned and out of hand, but they’re also the perfect starting place for an impressive variety of pies, cakes, bars, tarts and crumbles. For the Fourth, Kafka likes a classic strawberry shortcake.

As much as I would like to be a pastry chef, I am not. In fact, I am not much of a baker altogether. My breads rarely rise, my cakes lack fluff, and my custards tend to curdle. However, I do have my strong points. When it comes to stick-to-your-ribs food like grilled steaks, creamy risottos, hand-cut pastas or just about anything made with pork on the grill, I can create a meal that will leave you clutching your gut in requisite fullness.