Leafy Greens

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(Mashed Potatoes with Cabbage) Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. This recipe for colcannon is thought to have come to the New World in the 1800s, carried by the great waves of Irish immigration.

(Russian Potato-and-Cabbage Turnovers)

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

It's low-fat milk, not cream, that gives this delicious side dish its richness. Try it with poached, grilled or roasted salmon steaks.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

In this easy salad, salty prosciutto contrasts with peppery arugula and cooling mango. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less, but requires additional unattended time.

An interesting and slightly sweet salad that's great with sandwiches, burgers and grilled chicken. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

An inviting first course would be grilled or roasted vegetables tossed with olive oil and arranged on a platter with olives and spicy peppers. Buy some tiramisu for dessert.

A great combination of flavors that makes an elegant first course--for brunch or for dinner. The timbales need to be chilled overnight, so begin preparing this dish a day before serving.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Start with grilled country bread spread with olive paste, or olivada, available at Italian markets, specialty foods stores and some supermarkets. Or puree pitted, black, brine-cured olive oil in a processor.

Make the salad in a clear glass bowl to show off the colors. Pass some purchased red wine vinaigrette or buttermilk dressing alongside.

Irish chefs are gifted at making something special out of the simplest ingredients. This pretty side dish is a good example.

This creamy dressing is also terrific over chilled steamed vegetables.