Make Ahead

Tikka curry paste — used to season the chicken — can be found in Asian markets, but any mild Indian curry paste can be substituted.

For soft and chewy cookies, bake these just a couple of minutes less than the recipe directs.

Nothing is more basic to French olive people than tapenade, the simple and delicious Provençal caviar eaten with toasted bread. It can be flavored with garlic, bay, thyme, mustard, and even rum or Cognac. Here, it is done the old way.

For a festive presentation, place the toffee in clear cellophane bags and tie with French silk ribbon.

Roasting the vegetables and adding red wine are the secrets to the satisfying flavor of this pot pie. Other root vegetables such as turnips or parsnips would work well here, too.

This easy pâté can be made three days ahead.

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

The crostini can be assembled two hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until ready to broil and serve.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Heres a cool combination thats excellent with salmon. Because the bulgur is not cooked, it needs to sit overnight in the dressing to soften, so begin preparing it a day ahead.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A perfect accompaniment for cocktails. Most of the prep work here can be done ahead.