Cilantro

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Kraft introduced Velveeta in 1928, and its special cooking properties quickly caught on: When melted, it was as smooth as velvet (hence the name), and it would never curdle when heated. While many Americans today prefer regional or handmade cheeses, a lot of them still secretly indulge in a little Velveeta. After all, Grandma’s macaroni and cheese would never be the same without it. Velveeta makes this dip unbelievably creamy, too; scoop it up with tortilla chips, or try it in tacos.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 40 min

Hélène Wagner-Popoff writes, "My husband, Ivan, and I moved to Corsica from Madagascar eleven years ago on a whim. We restored an abandoned convent and saved the thousand-year-old olive grove surrounding it. Today we produce an olive oil called 'de pays de Corse Ivan Popoff.' Although I was born in Lyons, the subtle flavors typical of Corsican cooking have definitely influenced my style. My dishes are extremely varied and well thought-out, but most of all simple. I like to surprise my family and guests with unexpected flavor combinations that don't take a lot of effort." While this is delicious on its own as a side dish, Hélène also recommends it as a sauce spooned over roasted fish.

This is a great summer salad, perfect with all kinds of barbecue and grilled foods. It's also a wonderful way to brighten up a winter dinner of broiled chicken or beef.

Sweet, salty, and spicy, nuoc cham is the indispensable sauce of Vietnam's cuisine. It's a favorite dipping sauce for spring rolls and for fresh rice-paper rolls such as these.

At the restaurant, the chops are accompanied by a rice pilaf made by mixing mango, cashews and basil into basmati rice.

What to drink: The menu's sweet-tart flavors call for a floral Riesling or spicy Syrah.

Yam Jin Gai Mom's chicken noodle is great, but this soup is all about heat and bold flavor. Thais typically incorporate soup into a menu rather than making it a separate course. Active time: 1 1/2 hr Start to finish: 5 1/2 hr (includes making stock)

The consistency and flavor of bottled Asian chile sauces can vary, as can the heat of fresh chiles, so make adjustments to taste. For these tropical rolls, we found the thinner Wei-Chuan brand spring roll wrappers worked best. Active time: 1 hr Start to finish: 1 hr

The long noodles in this soup — representing longevity — are meant to be slurped up. In Chinese culture, cutting them would symbolize cutting one's life short. This recipe requires a whole chicken for its rich broth and makes double the quantity necessary. Reserve 1/2 cup stock for the Broccoli Spears in Garlic Sauce and freeze the remainder. After setting aside the breast meat for the soup, save the rest of the chicken for another dish. The reserved cilantro leaves can be used for the Steamed Striped Bass with Ginger and Scallions. Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 3 3/4 hr

The sauce in this recipe is also good with chicken and ham. Active time: 50 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

Moroccan Turkey Pie Traditionally, Moroccan b'stilla is a pie made with minced squab.

Plain nonfat yogurt heightens the texture of this easy dip while adding a nice tang. To thicken the yogurt properly, it needs to be drained, so begin preparing the guacamole at least two hours ahead. Offer light beer and iced tea throughout dinner.

Sautéing the cauliflower before braising intensifies its naturally mild, sweet flavor. Yogurt is the braising medium here. It mellows the flavors of the curry and makes the cauliflower especially rich-tasting.

A colorful and delicious side dish reminiscent of succotash.