Scallion

The juices from the clams combine with spicy Asian flavors to make a great pasta sauce.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(Spicy Chicken Crêpes)

Chef Stratta prepares this satisfying sandwich for The Terrace Dining Room, Phoenix, Arizona.

Steamed artichokes would be a great beginning. Accompany the delicate and sophisticated goat cheese souffl with a mixed green salad, whole wheat baguette and some sliced tomatoes. Wrap up chocolate-dipped strawberries and shortbread cookies. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Make the salad in a clear glass bowl to show off the colors. Pass some purchased red wine vinaigrette or buttermilk dressing alongside.

Irish chefs are gifted at making something special out of the simplest ingredients. This pretty side dish is a good example.

Cooks wanting to prepare these kebabs in advance may let them marinate for up to 4 hours. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This dish is a wonderful accompaniment to grilled, steamed, or stir-fried seafood. Topped with diced steamed sweet potato or winter squash, it makes a satisfying light meal on its own.

A nice dressing for greens or coleslaw.

Michael McLaughlin, cookbook author, says, "Sweet potatoes are so versatile that it's a crime to fix them just one way every Thanksgiving. A long time ago, I decided to be flexible and creative with the sweet potatoes, and it has been a delicious ongoing investigation. This year, now that dried cranberries are a supermarket staple, I've zeroed in on this version. Not only is it a colorful addition to the holiday spread, but it also is cooked on top of the stove, freeing up some precious oven space."

Adding lemon peel shortly before the rice has finished cooking gives it a bright flavor.