Weeknight Meals

Cut the green beans and bell pepper while the tofu marinates.

When cutting the pockets for the stuffing, make them as large as possible on the inside without enlarging the 3-inch-long incision on the outside.

This authentic Cantonese version of chow mein features fresh egg noodles, which are fried into a cake that softens slightly when topped with a meat and vegetable sauce. Be careful not to mistake wonton noodles for Chinese egg noodles — although they look similar, wonton noodles don't have the same rich texture.

This soup is made with store-bought broth and rotisserie chicken, which shortens the preparation time considerably. (If you usually make your soup from scratch, you may be surprised at how appealing this shortcut can be when you're rushed.)

This soup looks thick but doesn't taste at all heavy. In fact, it has an almost billowy texture, but with enough substance to still be satisfying. The addition of just a small amount of toasted almonds adds some crunch to the equation.

For more variety, stir in other finely chopped herbs such as basil, thyme, or tarragon.

We use ice in this recipe because it gives the gazpacho just the right chill without the soup having to be refrigerated for any length of time. If you don't have precrushed ice, crush about 1/4 cup ice in a blender.

Lime juice, sea salt, and chives come together in a bright-tasting butter for sweet summer corn. What to drink: An oaky California Chardonnay. Easy Serving: Place the seasoned butter in large sealable container. Add hot drained corn. Seal container and shake until butter melts and coats corn. Transfer buttered corn to bowl.

Italy meets Greece in a dish that pairs well with grilled lamb or chicken. What to drink: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Grüner Veltliner.

What to drink: Pinot Noir or dry rosé.

Go completely southern: Serve the chops with cornbread, coleslaw, and ice-cold beer.

Meat and veg all in one recipe —and all from the grill.