Leafy Greens

This dish is named after the copper Portuguese cooking vessel, the cataplana, in which it is traditionally cooked.

In Chinese culture, noodles symbolize longevity and are often served at New Year celebrations and traditionally left very long.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This version of the French classic has only raw vegetables.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A stylish dinner party dish with a bonus: Much of the prep work can be done a day ahead. At the store, have the butcher bone and trim all of the fat and membrane from a 4 3/4-pound center-cut veal rib roast, resulting in a 3-pound oblong boneless veal loin.

This dish of spinachy rice with feta and black olives is extremely simple … and therein lies its elegance. Some people simply don't get it. "It's just so humble," they say. To which I respond, "That's what I like about it!"

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.

A delicious salad that can be partnered with some crusty bread to make a light main course. The recipe yields a generous amount of vinaigrette; if you have some left over, try tossing it with oriental noodles, dipping fried wontons into it or brushing some onto chicken breasts right before grilling them.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Purchased Italian treats like roasted red peppers, assorted olives, caponata, salami, marinated mushrooms and crusty breadsticks make a great antipasto platter. Biscotti and a bowl of fresh grapes are just right for dessert.

The pile of raw fresh chard may look daunting, but don't worry: It cooks down to about two cups. As a meatless main course, the casserole will serve six.