5 Ingredients or Fewer

This recipe was created to accompany Peppered Pears, Blue Cheese, and Fried Sage . Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Great flavor resulted when we made these croùtes in a ridged grill pan, but a broiler will get the job done.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 1 hr

Parsley and thyme replace the usual basil in this sauce. Try it on cooked vegetables.

Salatat Baqduness wa Bassal This salad is common throughout the eastern and southern Mediterranean from Turkey to Egypt. It is always laid on the bread on which grilled meat and poultry are served. In Turkey the salad is seasoned with only sumac; in Egypt, with lemon juice; and in Syria, Lebanon, and Israel it is seasoned with both. A chef friend of mine, Sami Tamimi, whose recipe this is, taught me to soak the sliced onions in boiling water for a few minutes before using. This softens them slightly and, more significantly, takes away some of the sharpness. Be sure to dry the onions well before adding the seasonings.

This recipe was created to accompany Cold Avocado Soup with Chili Coriander Cream. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.

Here's a creamy, low-fat dish that rivals the homey goodness of mashed potatoes. Leftovers are great with scrambled eggs for brunch.

Adapted from Pierre Gagnaire The French, who invented soufflés, understand that the whole point is that everything that rises falls. Soufflés should not be overcooked; they should be slightly creamy in the middle.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Arugula's bold flavor and the texture of curly frisée team up in this simple salad.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

We liked fleur de sel or Malden flaked sea salt best in this recipe, though other types work fine. If using coarse sea salt instead of flaked or fine, crush it lightly.