Chicken Breast

Set out black beans, rice, lettuce, salsa and hot flour tortillas to go with the chicken.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Any brand of curry paste, which comes in jars or plastic pouches, will be successful in this authentic-tasting curry. Serve the spicy chicken with rice pilaf and stir-fried broccoli; lemon frozen yogurt is a refreshing finale.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time. Makes use of the microwave oven.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

In the state of Yucatán in southeastern Mexico, lime soup is served on even the hottest days. The fresh taste of the cilantro and the sourness of the lime combine to give the soup plenty of zing.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. For a side dish, serve couscous mixed with sautéed red bell pepper, carrots and dill. Buy a strawberry tart to finish.

"For our anniversary, my husband and I went to Fiddle Heads in nearby Buffalo — a restaurant that’s always our first choice for special occasions," says Noreen Flynn of Kenmore, New York. "The chicken with mashed potatoes and greens I had last time was terrific; it would even be good enough to serve to guests during the holidays." Marinate the chicken overnight to make the most of the fresh herbs — their flavors will infuse the meat, with delicious results.

Serve buttered noodles, potato salad or rice pilaf alongside this entree.