Bean and Legume

An easy soup from Caffe Trinity in San Francisco.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This dip is also nice with raw vegetables.

(Steamed Green beans) Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

At New York's Nosmo King (the name is a clever twist on "no smoking"), Alan Harding does a terrific job of cooking upscale food with almost entirely organic ingredients.

At Aubergine, one of London's most stylish restaurants, this soup is whimsically called a "capuccino." Chef Gordon Ramsey tops it with a rich broth that has been foamed with butter. This simpler version (minus the frothy "cap") is equally delicious.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This light soup makes a lovely first course.

This recipe can be increased to serve any number of hungry people as a main course or appetizer. Chopped olives, chopped red or green bell peppers and kidney beans are also good in this dish.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(Moroccan Chicken, Chick-Pea, and Lentil Soup) A marvelous vegetarian harira sampled at the United Nations' Delegates Dining Room--prepared by chef Mohamed Boussaoud, from the hotel La Mamounia in Marrakech--provided the inspiration for the following chicken-based version. In Morocco this soup is often made with lamb as well as chicken and is traditionally served after sundown during the month of Ramadan to break each day's fast.

Greeks call this fassolakia Iadera. It's a traditional vegetable mixture that is often eaten cold, accompanied by hunks of country bread and feta cheese.

My mother's neighbor Beth Yaffe serves this dip often at parties and barbecues. It's always the first thing to go!