Dairy Free

The difference between this papaya salad and a Thai-style one comes down to spice and sugar, says Tanis. The Vietnamese one is sweeter and less hot. Have all the ingredients assembled, but dress the salad just before serving.

Squid is tender when it's either cooked quickly over high heat, or gently for a long time. This is the quick version.

Overcooked lobsters will be tough and rubbery; if yours are less than 1 1/2 pounds each, decrease the cooking time by a few minutes.

Chicken thighs are appealingly fatty, but this can sometimes cause flareups when grilling. Bank the coals before igniting so that you have a cooler side, and move the chicken there if needed.

"A snappy breakfast radish is the perfect vehicle for this nut and spice blend." –Claire Saffitz, assistant food editor

The synthesis of fresh and longcooked textures; rich, sweet, and herbal flavors; and juicy and crunchy garnishes. Serve with extra herbs, chiles, and lime so everyone can customize his own bowl.

Lamb shoulder is a little fattier than the leg, and becomes meltingly tender in Williams's mostly hands-off method. Earmark this one for your next dinner party.

Earn bragging rights by seeking out the bittersweet choricero pepper and traditional blood sausage to cook with, or use the other ingredients we've suggested—this homey dish will still taste superb.

Here's your chance to master one of Spain's classic tapas. The key is to leave the eggs slightly undercooked; that's what gives this a custardy (not bouncy) texture.

To see step-by-step photos and detailed instructions on making these hot and crunchy filled crepes (known as banh xeo).

If you decide to make this out in the wild, pack the perishables in a cooler.

"You always want to give the option of adding heat at the table," says Tanis. These shallots deliver acidity and fire in one shot.

Take care with these little shrimp: They'll cook through quickly.

This fresh take on fruit salad combines spring's favorite sweet-and-sour duo, plus hazelnuts and mint to round things out.

The weeknight, veggie-heavy, nothing-in-the-house-to-eat dinner. Top with a fried egg if you're feeling peckish.

All the flavors of a steak sandwich on rye, but in salad form.

This revelatory sauce starts with a dry caramel, meaning no water is added to the sugar. It will take on color quickly and is less likely to crystallize.

A little bit of sweetness makes these especially appealing to pint-size palates.