Seafood

For best results, use a grill basket. It should be big enough for the fish but snug enough to keep the fish and lemon slices from moving around. The one we used in the Bon Appétit test kitchen was 17 by 6 inches.

Market tip: Go for Dungenesse crab from the Pacific coast or blue crab from the Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic coast.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A simple and satisfying version of a typically time-consuming restaurant classic.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

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

Round out this collection of sophisticated hors d'oeuvres with oysters on the half shell and purchased chicken liver pâté accompanied by crackers. Chilled Champagne and dry Martinis are perfect with these easy appetizers.

The delicate 1/16-inch-wide pasta ribbons known as taglierini or tagliolini are the perfect foil for scallops and this elegant-and easy-sauce.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Throughout the South, former cotton plantations remain as large tracts of land maintained as hunting preserves. The quail is a small game bird that spends most of its time on the ground. Often called "partridge," it is favored for its delicious white flesh. Serve one of these birds to each person as an appetizer for a big celebratory meal such as Christmas or a rehearsal dinner, or two as the main course.

For a nice accompaniment to the fish, try steamed baby red potatoes and a crunchy cucumber and snow pea salad. Think ahead for dessert: Grill some thick pineapple slices before you cook the salmon; after the meal, top the pineapple with tropical fruit sorbet (such as mango) and a generous splash of rum.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Wrapped foods, such as the Vietnamese spring roll, the Filipino lumpia and the Chinese egg roll, have a long history in Asian cooking and are hot items right now all across America. The lime juice, ginger, cilantro, cucumber and mint in this recipe are found in the cuisines of all Southeast Asian countries. Round out this dinner with hot or iced jasmine tea and cold Thai beer.

A make-ahead smoked salmon butter and some fresh cod dress up clam chowder beautifully for company. Team the stew with a favorite coleslaw and warm buttermilk biscuits for a cozy winter meal.