Herbs & Spices

Healthy bonus: Vitamin A from the pumpkin, fiber from the peas

Stir any remaining pesto into steamed vegetables or couscous.

Low-fat, low-cal: Steaming helps preserve the flavor and nutrients of the fish without adding extra fat or calories.

Stout and brown sugar give these tender ribs a hint of sweetness.

Healthy bonus: Fiber from tomatoes; calcium from basil and fennel

Joy Ackerman of Cincinnati, Ohio, writes: "After cooking for a family of six for years, I've become a pro at streamlining recipes and being organized in the kitchen. My children are now grown and out of the house, but that hasn't changed how I cook or shop. I still make a monthly menu plan, and often find myself cooking my kids' favorite dishes whenever they visit." Unpeeled red-skinned potatoes give this rich, garlicky side its great texture.

This low-fat soup is rich in calcium and antioxidants.

Two elements make this dish special. Usually the smaller shanks are braised, but a whole leg works just as well and looks more impressive. Also, white wine is used for the braising instead of red. What to drink: A full-bodied Zinfandel.

Editor's note: The recipe and introductory text below are from Icebox Desserts by Lauren Chattman. Lavender honey is especially fragrant and flavorful, but any other favorite honey is fine in this wholesome-tasting pie. I think fresh peaches sweetened with a little honey and cinnamon are the perfect accompaniment, but plums, berries, or any other fresh fruit of your choice may be substituted. Use organic, whole-milk yogurt if at all possible. The Stonyfield Farm brand is widely available at supermarkets and natural foods stores.

Îles flottantes, puffy clouds of softly poached meringue floating on a vanilla custard sauce, may look ethereal on the plate, but this is really a homey French farmhouse dessert. It was probably devised to make ingenious use of fresh farm eggs and milk, plus a little sugar.

These little scallop-shaped cakes are a classic teatime treat in France.

Bev Heinecke of San Anselmo, California, writes: "Many of our favorite family recipes come from my mother-in-law, Hannah, who was a wonderful cook. When my sons were younger I made her chocolate macaroons and pancakes all the time. I don't make them quite as often as I used to, but they're still a hit with my husband."

Goes great with: Salad of butter lettuce, radicchio, roasted pears, and toasted walnuts. What to drink: Red Burgundy or Pinot Gris.

These good-for-you sandwiches are low in fat and meatless.