Bell Pepper

Neapolitan in origin, this make-ahead savory pie is delicious either warm or at room temperature.

Most of the assembly for this layered bread-and-egg dish can be done one day ahead. Serve it hot or warm.

In Cuba, this versatile side dish is known as congrí. Louisiana has its own version of red beans and rice, of course, but in that one you won't find the oregano, cumin or cilantro.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. With the fish, offer thinly sliced cucumber‑tossed in a dressing of rice vinegar and vegetable oil‑and some purchased sesame noodle salad. For dessert, side-by-side scoops of mango and raspberry sorbets look pretty sprinkled with toasted coconut. (Wasabi powder can be found in the Asian foods section of the supermarket.)

This classic accompaniment to grilled meats also makes a great taco filling. Grilled chiles, peppers, and onion.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Crumbled feta cheese makes a nice topping.

To make this easy appetizer even easier, substitute store-bought roasted red bell peppers for the home-roasted ones.

This recipe was created to accompany Blue Cheese and Walnut Soufflés with Red Pepper Vinaigrette . Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This idea comes from The Mercer Kitchen, a great restaurant in New York City's SoHo district that serves innovative, bold-flavored food. Color, as well as taste, is important here, so arrange the veggies carefully.

This colorful dish plays with the Basque sauté of red and green bell peppers. The Sherry wine vinegar gives the salad a delicious sweet-tangy edge.

Prepare a day ahead, and chill overnight. Look for bulgur (also called cracked wheat) in natural foods stores and supermarkets.

Eggplant adds a nutty flavor. Open a light-bodied Valpolicella from Italy for the meal.

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

Sofrito is a sautéed vegetable mixture used as a seasoning in Spain, Italy and Latin America. This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.