Shallot

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

These potatoes are great with the fish - and with just about any main course.

A composed salad that features all the bright and pretty colors of the season.

Garlic is a perfect partner for the shellfish in this easy starter. Pass a basket of soda bread to mop all the juices.

The seafood is cooked in lime juice and fish sauce, making this oil-free salad perfect for a low-fat lunch.

Cèpe is the French name (porcini is the Italian name) for the boletus mushroom, which grows in the southwest. Dried cèpes are not readily available here, so we use dried porcini.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. We found this pasta just as delicious without the salmon.

Complement the chicken with Aromatic Yellow Rice and haricots verts or other green beans, and offer a crisp Riesling or cold Asian beer to drink. Finish the meal simply with a platter of tropical fruit.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Open a bottle of fruity Chardonnay to serve with this enlightened take on a classic.

The Kitchen Conservatory, a popular St. Louis cooking school, knows how the superb beef of the Midwest should be cooked. Suitable accompaniments are baked potatoes, steamed carrots and a green salad. Complete the meal with a pear tart.

Although we used Asian greens and radish sprouts for our salad, we encourage you to explore your local farmers market and use whatever small young greens (baby spinach, arugula, or watercress, for example) and other fresh goodies you find.

A sophisticated main course that's quick and easy to make. Accompany the fish with wild rice pilaf and steamed asparagus.