Bell Pepper

The garlic is added in two lots here to get two different flavors. The first amount is sautéed with other vegetables at the beginning of the recipe in good Italian or Spanish fashion. The second goes in near the end to provide a bite. The tomatoes provide most of the liquid.

This recipe originally accompanied Scallops and Spinach Fettucine with Red Bell Pepper Cream Sauce.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A version of the popular Cuban soup comes from Miami's Casa Larios.

Warm garlic toast and an arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette are good partners with the pasta. A purchased lemon tart is a fitting dessert.

Serve polenta alongside this dish, which is also nice spooned over pasta or onto French rolls to make hero sandwiches.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This versatile salad can also be made with leftover beef, lamb or chicken.

Sliced avocado and purchased salsa are great additions to this Tex-Mex entrée. Let guests assemble their own tacos.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Pick up some roasted or steamed vegetables from a deli or salad bar and some corn bread to serve alongside. Vanilla ice cream topped with sliced peaches and toasted pecans would be a nice ending. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Rajas is the word for a traditional Mexican mixture of sautéed peppers and onions. Green onions work well in this version.