April showers yield yummy May desserts

It's May -- time to get the ice cream freezer out of storage, especially for a fabulous Amaretto Raisin Swirl Dessert that is worth making and perfecting for Mother's Day or upcoming graduation parties, showers, reunions and picnics.

The dessert also is the perfect finale for Chicken Vesuvio, requested by R.P. of Oswego and shared by: Gloria Reifler of Chicago, who has served her version for years accompanied by a green salad and crusty bread; A. DiCicco of Arlington Heights, and Ramona Litterio of Frankfort, whose Vesuvio has been a favorite in her 57-year marriage.

In answer to a request for Creamed Chipped Beef from F.S. of Chicago, Litterio offers her quick version:

In a 1-quart glass bowl, place 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons flour and ½ teaspoon salt. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, stirring after 1 minute. Gradually stir in 1 cup milk. Microwave on high for 4 minutes stirring every minute until thick and bubbly. Add chipped beef (the jarred kind) and pour over toast. Recipe can be doubled.

Jeanette Dziwulski of Harwood Heights shares the non-microwave recipe she has used for 30 years:

Use ?206-140? pound shredded dried beef (if beef is very salty, cover with warm water; drain immediately). Separate pieces, removing any stringy bits. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in frying pan. Add beef; cook until edges curl (2 to 3 minutes). Sprinkle with 2 to 3 tablespoons flour; stir. Add 2 cups milk or cream. Cook and stir over low heat until thickened. Season, and then pour over toast or serve with rice.

I would love a recipe for rhubarb fool.

D.S., Lincolnshire

Will someone share a recipe for blueberry trifle?

M.I., Chicago

My teen sons love trail mixes. Does anyone have a recipe for a spicy hot mix?

S.K., Chicago

Send recipes and requests to: Swap Shop, Chicago Sun-Times, 350 N. Orleans, 9th Floor, Chicago 60654 or by e-mail, swapshop@suntimes.com.

All mail must include a daytime telephone number. Sorry, requests can't be answered personally.