Simmer

This dish uses three vegetable-bin staples: onions, celery, and carrots. If you don't have any canned broth on hand, dissolve a bouillon cube in water.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This delightful custard sauce-infused with black currant tea for a unique accent-is made with milk instead of cream. Begin preparing it a day ahead.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Orange juice adds zip to the dressing.

You can find canned litchis in the Asian section of most supermarkets.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. This recipe also works with oranges and tangerines: Substitute 2 oranges or 3 tangerines for the grapefruit.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Choucroute is traditionally cooked in champagne but if you wish to be more economical you can cook it in white wine and add a split or two of champagne at the table.