Thyme

This lovely summer soup has a rich, smooth texture even though it contains no cream. For a picnic, bring the cold soup in a thermos and the chives in a plastic bag, and then serve in sturdy ceramic bowls.

Jeanne Thiel Kelley, a contributing editor to Bon Appétit, says, "Every year, my family gets together for a big buffet, and soup is always the appetizer. The host greets the rest of the family at the door with a small cup of soup and a glass of wine. Each year the soup changes, but this one is particularly nice. It has lots of flavor and a creamy texture, yet isn’t so rich that it spoils the appetite."

Active time: 1 3/4 hr Start to finish: 2 3/4 hr

"This favorite was inspired by my wife's penchant for sweet onions and mine for bitter greens," says Joe Archibald of Kensington, Connecticut. "The creaminess of the chèvre is set off nicely by the tartness of the vinegar." Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

At the restaurant the chef garnishes this dish with fresh seasonal flowers, chervil, and chives.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Melted butter laced with thyme, fennel seeds and lemon peel is drizzled over the chicken for terrific flavor. The fennel bulbs and bell peppers, both of which are also broiled, add a lot of color and taste. Pour a Sauvignon Blanc to accompany this dish.

This simple but sophisticated preparation is the star of the Thanksgiving table. Watch how to prepare and carve your bird with our streaming video demonstration.

Gingersnaps thicken the gravy and add nice sweetness and spice. Start the gravy while the turkey roasts, then add the pan juices when it's done and waiting to be carved.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Even if your crackers fail to puff, they'll still taste delicious. This recipe is an accompaniment for Scallop Chowder .

Thanks to purchased frozen dough, this bread is a snap to make. Serve it with soups, salads and pastas.