Bell Pepper

Use any leftover sauce as an omelet filling.

This simple and delicious starter gets a hint of spiciness from cayenne pepper.

These chicken wings, inspired by a Macanese recipe, bring together flavors of Portugal, China, and Africa, which were connected through the trade routes and colonization of Macau.

Using canned black beans makes this soup a snap to prepare. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(TIAN DE POIVRONS ET D'AUBERGINES AUX ANCHOIS) This can be served hot or at room temperature, making it a good partner for roasted meats and fish or sandwiches. If you're not an anchovy fan, leave them out—the tian will still be great.

There are many different versions of this traditional island dish, which is known as sopas mallorquínas. Spanish smoked paprika (pimentón) is distinctive and worth seeking out for its unique flavor.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. This sandwich goes well with macaroni salad and sweet-potato chips. Scoop strawberry ice cream into waffle cones afterward.

This dish is also known as Texas caviar.

"My husband and I spent a weekend in Mendocino, and one evening out we were served a red pepper soup," says Leslie Cohen of Loomis, California. "Not being a red pepper aficionado, I was surprised at how delicious the soup was and vowed to replicate the recipe." Active time: 1 hr Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

Remember, you absolutely cannot make delicious fried rice using freshly cooked rice! If you cook the rice yourself (a day to a week ahead), buy long-grain (Carolina) rice and follow the package directions for making drier rice. Otherwise, use leftover Chinese take-out rice.