Condiment

Flavored vinegars can be used to enliven dressings and marinades, finish pan sauces, or pickle vegetables--and they make wonderful gifts. Once the steeping is completed, these vinegars keep for several months. (Garnishes and other solids left in the jar, however, may discolor or break down.)

Try the compote on pound cake, too.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. We loved this refreshing condiment teamed with lean beef and with grilled shrimp.

A colorful topping for any kind of fish, especially broiled salmon, sea bass or halibut.

Nice with grilled fish or chicken, this can also be served on toasted baguette slices as an appetizer.

The fresh flavors and crisp textures in this salsa complement the tender sea bass.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Zia Maria is a simple but delightful restaurant in Alghero, a popular tourist resort on a part of Sardinia's west coast known as the Coral Riviera. The dining room is very basic; a large fireplace and some antique cooking equipment are the only things to distract you from the traditional Sardinian menu. But that's a good thing, because once you start in on pickled artichokes and mushrooms, wild boar in sweet-and-sour broth, or ricotta ravioli with tomato sauce, you'll appreciate having few distractions. Each dish, like these tangy onions from the restaurant's selection of antipasti, is cooked and presented in straightforward fashion.

The acidity of the vinegar and grapefruit is balanced by the quince, apple, and pear flavors in this French-style chutney. Bananas add creaminess. Use ripe fruit for best results.

This recipe accompanies Black Bean Soup with Cilantro-Tomato Salsa

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Makes use of the microwave oven.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The habanero, reputedly the "hottest chile in the world" has a complex, citrusy aroma and flavor. This salsa from the Yucatan is a classic accompaniment to meat and seafood cooked in an achiote recado a brick-red paste made with achiote, or annatto, seeds. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe is an accompaniment for Blood Orange Tart with Orange Caramel Sauce.

Aji amarillo is a Peruvian chile. This salsa uses a jarred paste made from these flavorful and fiery bright yellow peppers. This recipe is an accompaniment for Pork Tenderloin Churrasco .