Watercress

Champagne is the perfect accompaniment for this delicate appetizer.

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 20 min

A Dijon mustard vinaigrette brings all the flavors together. If you can't find basmati rice, white long-grain rice is fine.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Vinegar and mustard give the dressing in this salad an assertive flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the beets.

This midsummer fare is adapted from a dish I enjoyed at 192, our favorite wine-bar-restaurant in London's Kensington: its inspiration is, I am sure, from Spain. You can buy a whole chunk of chorizo sausage — or a string of smaller ones — to slice yourself. Most good gourmet stores stock chorizo (mild or spicy), and many supermarkets do, too.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Fresh strawberries and cookies from the bakery round out the meal nicely. Pour a dry white wine or iced tea. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Try tucking this simple make-ahead salad into pita bread halves and adding some ruffly-edged lettuce for color.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

If you can't get cotija cheese, you can substitute feta — it's stronger in flavor and a bit saltier than cotija, but it works fine. Archibald also makes a version of this salad topped with shavings of Manchego cheese.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.