Vegan

Active time: 35 min Start to finish: 2 hr

Tidbits to serve with before-dinner drinks.

Serve with jicama sticks, radish slices, peeled cooked shrimp, and corn tortilla chips.

Cut and toss the avocado garnish in lemon juice just before serving to prevent discoloration. Then sprinkle it over the top without tossing, or the salad will be mushy.

The griddled persimmon cakes we had with duck in Xi'an inspired this salad.

Sliced tomatoes are topped with sun-dried tomatoes, olives and capers.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Round out this satisfying soup with a composed platter of marinated beets, red onions, sliced hard-boiled eggs, pickled vegetables and a wedge of imported Parmesan. Try a purchased berry tart for a pretty dessert.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Anchovies really perk up plain wax beans, while celery adds a crisp, clean element to the dish. Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 25 min

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 10 min Start to finish: 45 min

This recipe is an accompaniment for Panfried Pressed Poussins .