Meal Prep

Though the cranberries look gorgeous, you wouldn't want to eat them—they're extremely tart when raw. The mint leaves, however, are positively delicious. Fresh raw cranberries yielded the most attractive garnish; thawed frozen berries may collapse and shrivel. Feel free to increase the amounts we've provided here if you'd like to make your decoration more elaborate.

I typically toast 1/4 cup peppercorns at a time (it's hard to grind much less) and use any extra powder in seasoning rubs, flatbreads, and stir-fries. However, once ground, this spice quickly loses its pungency—discard it once it is no longer vibrantly fragrant.

If you've never tried roasted cauliflower before, this dish will be a revelation.

Pesto is, of course, a great sauce for pasta, and this topping is also good on steamed vegetables and grilled meats. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe originally accompanied Potato Pancakes with Zucchini and Sage. It takes very little sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of fresh apples. Each variety contributes to the flavor of the sauce.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. To accompany Ice-Cream Bombes with Brandied Dried Cranberries and Cherries .

This recipe was created to accompany Couscous and Chicken Salad with Orange- Balsamic Dressing.

This recipe was created to accompany Cocoa Angel Food Cake with Orange Glaze

Be sure to refrigerate the oil, and to use it within three weeks of the date it was made.

A homemade version of vanilla extract.

A simple dessert sauce that is absolutely delicious spooned over scoops of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.

This recipe was created to accompany Roasted Marinated Cornish Hens . Can be prepared in 45 or less.

Tuna, which is hearty enough to stand up to strong Spanish flavors, is particularly popular on the Iberian Peninsula. Dusted with paprika and served atop a sauce of tomatoes with bell peppers and ham, the kebabs make outstanding summertime eating. Pour a Spanish Rioja throughout, and present a caramel flan with berries to finish.

Ras-El-Hanout This vibrant spice blend makes an excellent addition to lamb burgers or roasted chicken. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark, dry place.

Kao Kua Active time: 10 min Start to finish: 25 min