Cherry Tomato

Halved cherry tomatoes and diced green chilies make a chunky relish for the tri-tip.

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 1 3/4 hr

Familiar sides meet in a fresh, colorful salad.

Buy cooked fresh lobster meat and you can whip this salad together in about 30 minutes. Cooking your own lobster, however, not only ensures the freshest flavor and the tenderest meat, but you get more bang for the buck—you can use the lobster shells to make stock and lobster oil.

For this easy starter, the nonfat yogurt is strained to a thick texture and then combined with oregano, lemon peel and cayenne.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

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

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 45 min (includes cooling onion)

Steve Silverman of South Burlington, Vermont, writes: "In my cooking I tend to be very quick and health-conscious. During the summer, my wife, Mary, and I usually grill chicken or fish and make salads. I'll use whatever fresh vegetables and ingredients I have on hand and come up with a wonderful meal for the two of us." Serve this party appetizer with the toasted-baguette rounds or your favorite crackers. You can also double the tomato topping for a great pasta salad.

Active time: 1 hr Start to finish: 1 hr 20 min

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.