Plum Tomato

A simple, zestful relish that makes a quick and delicious hors d'oeuvre when served on toasted sourdough bread rounds. It's also nice for giving a flavor boost to roast chicken or fish.

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 45 min

Because the beans need to be soaked overnight, start making this a day or two before you plan to serve it.

Fresh-tasting and colorful, this salad would go well with pizza bianca or calzones. It would also be delicious tossed with penne for a quick pasta salad.

(INSALATA DI POMODORI) Climate and history have combined to make this region an important center for tomato cultivation. Plum tomatoes star in this straightforward side dish, which is a colorful accompaniment to the veal.

A small coffee or spice mill makes grinding the whole spices very easy. Serve the lamb with the Indian Ratatouille and basmati rice. Pour a spicy red wine such as Syrah or Zinfandel.

"While visiting Santa Fe, New Mexico, we dined at La Casa Sena restaurant and had a mesclun salad with an unusual balsamic-vinegar dressing," says Billie Ingram of Fairfax, Virginia. "Could you please get the recipe for us?" Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Halibut steaks and pork tenderloin are two of our favorites with this fiery side.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.