Citrus

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

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time. Makes use of the microwave oven.

The new stir-fry oil accented with garlic, ginger and sesame is a terrific way to season main courses. Use fresh vegetables (the cut-up ones at the salad bar work well) or frozen. Rice and watercress salad are fine accompaniments. Drizzle sliced fresh mango and pineapple with honey for a suitable finish.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

It's almost as quick to make the citrus-herb glaze that coats the chicken as it is to open a bottle of barbecue sauce-and the glaze has a far more interesting taste. Pour a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for the grown-ups; the kids should have lemonade. Finish up with watermelon and brownies. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Green papaya salad in all its regional variations - often flavored with pork, beef, or shrimp (as below)-is hugely popular throughout Southeast Asia. The dish is made from unripe Southeast Asian papayas, which have firm white flesh and white seeds. The current popularity of Vietnamese and Thai food in the United States has increased these papayas' availability, although it is still generally limited to Asian markets. Such papayas can grow to the size of cantaloupes or larger and range in shape from oval to round. Look for rock-hard dark green fruit without a trace of pink or yellow blush. If you don't see any, ask (some shopkeepers do not display them). Those who can't find the right kind of papaya might skip the salad or substitute seedless (European) cucumbers despite the repetition with the main course. Those who can find Southeast Asian green papayas will be treated to a salad that our food editors found irresistible.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Carrot cakes have been a part of American baking for years, and they remain a favorite dessert in the heartland. This version has a hint of orange from the juice and peel and lots of the rich cream cheese frosting that everyone expects (and loves). Thin orange peel strips make a pretty garnish.

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