Cucumber

A colorful salad that is refreshing alongside the lamb chops. Green or red bell peppers can be added to the salad, if you like.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 40 min

Tabbouleh is made with bulgur, but we decided to shake things up a bit by mixing tabbouleh flavors (parsley, tomato, and lemon) with rice and lentils, a common Middle Eastern pairing. Served chilled or at room temperature, the salad is terrific with any meat, poultry, or fish. You could add chickpeas, corn, or more lentils for a vegetarian main course. Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 40 min

"Andaluca restaurant in Seattle offers a delicious—and beautiful—green gazpacho served with a crabmeat topping," says Elida D. Wilson of Olympia, Washington. "Would chef Wayne Johnson be willing to share his recipe?"

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The tofu in this chowder provides a richness surprisingly similar to that of cream but without the fat and cholesterol. Your guests will never know the difference; our tasters didn't. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

For accompaniments, buy your favorite potato salad and steam some zucchini. Have lemonade and brownies afterward.

For a quick sauce to go with the fish, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard and chopped fresh dill.

Add chopped jalapeños for some extra zip.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Serve this Greek salad as a crisp first course, or pair it with grilled pita bread and you have lunch for two. Serves 4.