No-Cook

This very ancient dish of pickled salmon is of Swedish origin, and considered by a great many Scandinavians to be superior to smoked salmon. It must be made with fresh fish that has never been frozen, and with a plentiful supply of fresh dill weed.

Nice as an appetizer or a simple lunch.

Greek yogurt, if you can find it, is incredibly thick and creamy and a delight to eat. It shows up in several guises on the Greek table — as a savory dip, in sauces, or for dessert. Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr (includes draining)

Kumquats lend their bright citrus snap to a no-cooking-required relish.

Use with sweet and buttery lettuces such as Boston and Bibb.

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 45 min

This dressing, which I created for my Rustic Chicken Salad, will enliven any salad. Keep whisking while you drizzle in the oil—the vinaigrette will emulsify (thicken).

If you love cheesecake, try this classic French dessert.

A lovely white sangria with great balance. Make it a day ahead to allow the flavors to intensify.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The fruit in the salad can be varied with the season. In summer, add cantaloupe; in winter, oranges are good.

A typical Israeli breakfast selection would include this salad (either already prepared or with the vegetables available), the pita bread, and Za'atar along with fresh goat's — or cow's — milk cheeses, yogurt, hummus, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and avocados (in season).