Vegan

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 8 1/4 hr (includes chilling and freezing)

Soba noodles can be found in the Asian foods section of some supermarkets.

Bean thread noodles (also known as cellophane noodles) come in varying widths. For this recipe we like the wider (1/4-inch) noodles.

Fine bulgur might seem like a specialty ingredient, but it is actually in most supermarkets under the name Near East Taboule Wheat Salad Mix — just toss away the seasoning packet.

The peppers can be roasted and the broccoli blanched a day ahead, leaving just the sautéing to do before serving. This dish is equally delicious served right off the stove or at room temperature.

The Moroccan theme continues with this delicious salad and the vegetable kebabs .

"On a trip to Chicago, my daughter and I enjoyed a memorable meal at Pane Caldo downtown," writes Terrie M. Barr of Troy, Illinois. "Everything was terrific, especially the black olive and walnut spread served with the bread." Offer this flavorful spread with French-bread baguette slices that have been brushed with olive oil and toasted in a 350°F oven until golden.

This recipe is an accompaniment for Grilled Clams on the Half Shell with Ginger Mignonnette .

In a traditional Seder meal, bitter herbs — sometimes including parsley — represent the bitter experience of slavery. Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 15 min

This recipe is an accompaniment for Grilled Brined Salmon and Eggplant with Fennel Cucumber Relish.

Small, slender green beans can stand in for the haricots verts, a petite French variety, in this easy classic.