Cherry Tomato

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 45 min (includes cooling onion)

Steve Silverman of South Burlington, Vermont, writes: "In my cooking I tend to be very quick and health-conscious. During the summer, my wife, Mary, and I usually grill chicken or fish and make salads. I'll use whatever fresh vegetables and ingredients I have on hand and come up with a wonderful meal for the two of us." Serve this party appetizer with the toasted-baguette rounds or your favorite crackers. You can also double the tomato topping for a great pasta salad.

Active time: 1 hr Start to finish: 1 hr 20 min

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A nice hors d'oeuvre teaming fresh vegetables with a simplified version of rouille, the spicy red pepper and garlic sauce that typically accompanies French fish soups.

Bibb and Boston are both types of butter lettuce; you can use either in this recipe. What to drink: An Australian Sémillon, or a California Chardonnay or Chenin Blanc will stand up to the rich flavors in this meal.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The stew does need to bake for a couple of hours, but it's very easy to put together.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less, but requires additional unattended time.

You may use leftover grilled flank steak to create this salad. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Any combination of vegetables from the supermarket salad bar would work well here. Complete this colorful vegetarian meal with a romaine salad tossed with marinated artichoke hearts, canned garbanzo beans, and a creamy Italian dressing. End with biscotti and espresso.