Red Onion

Start with chopped fresh tomatoes, basil and garlic spooned onto toasted baguette slices. Grill slices of potato to have with the tuna; follow with biscotti and fresh figs.

Onion soup is known internationally as a French classic, but the Tuscans claim that they were actually the first to use the tear-provoking vegetable in soup.

Serve this Greek salad as a crisp first course, or pair it with grilled pita bread and you have lunch for two. Serves 4.

The cool flavors in this relish would be great with tuna or shrimp.

"I'm originally from Ecuador, and I'll never forget the wonderful food there," Maria Budde of Orange, California. "I enjoy re-creating dishes from my home country, and this flavorful starter is typical of my native cuisine. It's simple to make and delicious."

Jody Adams makes this dish in a 14-inch cast-iron skillet with a lid, but since that size is rare in home kitchens, we've adapted the recipe for a roasting pan.

A spinach salad with cherry tomatoes, toasted walnuts and lemon vinaigrette is a fine accompaniment, along with potato salad from the deli. Buy a fresh peach pie, and you're all set.

This pretty slaw with a celery seed and cider vinegar dressing is perfect for a Fourth of July picnic.

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

Use this snappy seasoning on pork, lamb and beef as well.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Dried mixed salad herbs, found in the spice section of the supermarket, can substitute for herbes de Provence, the French seasoning.

Cornmeal adds a nice crispness to the coating for the chicken. The salsa and the Three-Pepper Slaw with Chipotle Dressing make this a colorful entrée. For drinks, mix up some tequila-lime spritzers by combining a little tequila with fresh lime juice and sparkling water, or uncork a bottle of dry Gewürztraminer.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. May require additional sitting time.

The almonds and crisp green beans lend good crunch. For a light lunch, serve this with French bread and a fruit salad.

This impressive main course is ideal for a healthful dinner party. Serve it with crusty country style bread to soak up the flavorful juices.