Simmer

Here's a great drink that is guaranteed to take the chill off a winter day. It's also quite nice with an added splash of brandy or Kahlúa.

A vegetarian takeoff on the classic Chinese minced squab dish. Chopped raw vegetables, not fried noodles, add crunch.

(Thai Jasmine Rice) In Thailand, jasmine rice is nearly always cooked with just enough water to first boil and then steam the rice, and without salt or oil. Jasmine rice from Thailand is preferable, but you can substitute long-grain aromatic rice grown in the U.S.. As the rice cooks, it fills the house with its scent and the promise of good food to come. Those who have a rice cooker should measure the rice, wash it well, and cook it according to the manufacturer's instructions. If there are no water-to-rice proportions marked on your rice cooker, use the measurements set out in the recipe. This recipe was created to accompany Grilled Beef Salad , Thai Eggplant Salad and Chicken Stir-Fry with Holy Basil .

Buckwheat noodles give this classic spring pasta dish a nifty twist. Uncork your favorite Chardonnay.

When you want to put on the "dog" but not the fat, try this colorful salad.

This fruit keeps for several days in the refrigerator and is delicious for breakfast, too. Any dried fruit works well.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A terrific appetizer for parties.

Syracuse, the beautiful port city on the Ionian Sea, has a cuisine that is marked by highly aromatic combinations of vegetables and seafood. This pasta recipe is a distinctive example.

A hearty meal-in-a-bowl for blustery March days. Short ribs add flavor, while sliced cabbage contributes texture. At the end, the only things you need are a dash of vinegar and a dollop of sour cream.

Sopaipillas are crisp fried breads traditionally topped with honey; cinnamon and sugar are sometimes added to make a great dessert. In this recipe, fried tortillas approximate the texture of true sopaipillas.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.