Spreads

Making this at least a day ahead will allow the flavors to blend.

Baba Ghanouj Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

Active time: 10 min Start to finish: 10 min

Serve this tangy and delicious hors d'oeuvre spread on toasted baguette slices.

"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.

You can buy jars of tapenade at some specialty markets, but Jody Adams prefers the taste of homemade.

Be sure to use powdered fruit pectin in this recipe — don't substitute liquid pectin or a low-sugar variety. Active time: 10 min Start to finish: 45 min (includes chilling)

A twist on hummus, this sunset-colored dip also makes a delicious sandwich spread. Allow time for soaking the beans overnight.

This jam is perfect with roast chicken, pork, or lamb. It's also good with cheese and crackers. Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 1 hr

Serve with: Steaks, burgers, sausages, pork, duck, or salmon. Combine with: Sautéed greens (such as escarole). Use as: A topping for thin-crust pizza sprinkled with Gorgonzola.

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