No-Cook

Pernod, the beloved French anise-flavored aperitif, adds an interesting twist to the sauce. Offer Champagne with the starters.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Also good made with melon or oranges.

This tangy, fresh yogurt "cheese" -known as labaneh- vies for attention with hummus and tahini on the standard Israeli platter of mezze, or appetizers. Here it's seasoned with sesame seeds and spices, and drizzled with olive oil. Plan to start this the day before serving.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. We used osetra caviar for this hors d'oeuvre, but feel free to substitute your favorite. Any leftover caviar can be used to brighten up a number of dishes, from scrambled eggs to pasta.

Serve this colorful salsa with grilled fish or chicken, or with black beans and rice.

Serve this Thai-style dressing over chilled pasta or mixed raw vegetables.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Tossed with your best-quality olive oil, this simple salad needs no vinegar or lemon juice to taste unbelievably good. For extra crunch, mix in tender shoots from the farmers market.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

When sweet, succulent jumbo crabmeat comes into season, this is an incredibly simple, light, and refreshing first course that requires no cooking. It can also be used as a main course for a summer luncheon.

Serve with potato chips, a heap of tangy coleslaw, and some sweet gherkins. Finish with strawberry ice cream and chocolate cookies. By the way, the filling for these quick sandwiches is delicious on toasted English muffins for breakfast.