Weeknight Meals

Alongside this colorful main course, offer simple side dishes like white rice mixed with black beans, and steamed chunks of zucchini. Holiday cookies from the bakery top off the meal nicely.

This recipe is a variation on the classic English dish toad in the hole, which combines Yorkshire pudding batter with English sausage. If desired, you may substitute Canadian bacon for the Irish bacon called for. You will need to sauté the Canadian bacon in 1/4 cup additional vegetable oil because it does not contain the same amount of fat as Irish bacon.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Here's an easy but sophisticated side dish that makes a great accompaniment to prime rib, pork chops or veal.

Here's a chunky, hearty beef stew that's just right on a cold winter day.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Saffron lends authenticity to this fragrant dish, which draws its inspiration from the paellas of Spain. Serve a green salad alongside, and uncork a bottle of Pinot Grigio.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

From the Pepper Mill in Clearwater, Florida.

Serve with steamed new potatoes.