Lemon

Rouget, or red mullet, is renowned in the Mediterranean for its delicate flavor. It is increasingly available here in the U.S. (Incidentally, the fish is not a true mullet but is a member of another piscine family.) We loved the commingling of flavors that resulted when we put this concoction on a bed of zucchini potato lemon-thyme mash .

Yogurt gives this dressing tang and lightens it a bit for the weight-conscious.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional sitting time.

In this take on a classic salad, we combine bulgur with the usual tomatoes, green onions, parsley and mint, then add garbanzo beans and broiled lamb for a change of pace.

Here's an easy granita (a grown up snow cone). If you like, top it off just before serving with a diced melon salad made from cubes of cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon that have been tossed with a bit of sugar and thinly sliced fresh mint leaves.

Mint and capers grow everywhere on Sicily, and anchovies are always available. Here they enhance another island crop: artichokes.

Whether you serve this in individual goblets or a pretty bowl, garnish it with fresh mint and whipped cream for a festive look.

Offer this colorful condiment with assorted grilled vegetables or grilled tuna. It's also great when paired with fried calamari or used in tuna or potato salad.

Try this simple but flavorful dressing over tossed greens, too.

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

Here's a quick, modern version of an old-fashioned favorite.

Maple syrup was used by the Ojibwa tribe for roasting wild game. Here it goes into a terrific side dish that includes squash, another Native American staple.

A main-dish salad that's perfect for a casual summer dinner. Using purchased roasted chicken or leftover cooked chicken makes it even easier.