Starter

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires addtional sitting time. Serve this salad as a fiery first course for an Asian-style entrée such as a stir-fry, or use it as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish.

The soy-based sauce for these kebabs draws its various intensely flavored ingredients-cilantro, garlic, ginger and chilies-from the equatorial hot zone, where weather and food alike are fiery.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This is a delicate onion soup, a nice change from the heartier types which are so well known.

(SALADE DE LEGUMES AU FROMAGE DE CHEVRE) This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Roasting the yams gives this soup its richness; a swirl of cilantro-flavored yogurt adds even more taste and color.

There's plenty of zing in this refreshing summer salad, which also features red onion and peppery watercress.

Thick slices of eggplant are topped with a salad of roasted red bell peppers, feta cheese, olives and garbanzo beans; then the salad is drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing. It's nice with a Pinot Blanc or a Chardonnay. Pears poached in red wine and served with chocolate sauce and a glass of Sauternes make a lovely dessert.

Baba Ghanouj Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

Tomato and Bread Soup

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Though this recipe makes more than enough hors d'oeuvres, they are small and disappear in a New York minute!

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. The fennel is the special flavor in this soup.