Starter

These get a lift from allspice, too.

Use leftover poached or baked salmon. Canned red salmon that has been drained, skinned and boned also does the trick.

The following soup can be made with any variety of pumpkin except the traditional jack-o-lantern variety, which is too watery and lacks flavor. Apple Schnitz, time-honored Pennsylvania Dutch preserved apples, make a healthy snack as well as a novel garnish.

There is a historical reason why most Hanukkah menus offer foods that have been fried in oil. In the second century B.C., a one-day supply of oil inexplicably burned for eight days and eight nights after Judah Maccabee and his followers recaptured Jerusalem's Holy Temple from their Syrian oppressors. Hanukkah is the celebration of that miracle, and fried foods are served to commemorate the oil. In this country, the Eastern European potato latke is usually featured. These fritters are a Sephardic contribution to that tradition.

A delicious soup from Tágide.

This warming and satisfying winter soup is a delicious starter, and the vegetables add color and sweetness.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Tortillas form the crust of these layered pizzas, which are an irresistible hors d'oeuvre. Pour sangria throughout the party.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. This peperonata would also be delicious tossed with pasta and the small balls of mozzarella called bocconcini—and as a condiment on sandwiches.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 15 min.

Here's a versatile recipe that works well as an appetizer or a side dish.

In Egypt, eggplant was roasted over hot coals until the skin was charred. At home, I char the eggplant directly over the gas flame, turning frequently with tongs until the juices begin to ooze out. It can also be baked in a 425°F oven for 30 minutes.